The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1775-07-21 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
ALWAYS FOR LIBERTY,
AND THE PUBLICK GOOD.
ALEXANDER PURDIE, PRINTER.
W E E Z E L, May 2.
A CAMP will soon be formed near this town, consisting of 50,000 men, and the king is expected there. It is also said, that considerable magazines are to be established in this neighbourhood. The levies go on successfully, in his majesty's dominions. In general, every thing seems in a ferment, as was the case before, when important affairs were in agitation. We also learn, that 12,000 of the Elector Palatine's troops are to be assembled, at the same time, near Dusseldorff.
L O N D O N, May 8.
Extract of a letter from Leghorn, dated April 20.
THE chevalier Stuart has very frequent conferences with our government, and we hear he is to stay at Florence till the new pontifick sovereign notifies to him (in the capacity of king of Great Britain) his accession to the holy see; after which the chevalier will make a publick entry into the city of Rome, in that capacity.
"If we may credit an universal report, the fleet which is fitting out at the different ports of Spain is absolutely ordered to renew and protect the Spanish trade with the British colonies of North America, and to act against the English men of war in protecting those colonies on the Newfoundland fishery." to mighty silly Sir
On Thursday last the wife of Mr. Samuel Lefuze, peruke-maker, in Portland street, Cavendish square, was delivered of two sons and a daughter, who, with the mother, are likely to live. What makes this case more remarkable is, the mother being in the 54th year of her age, and the 30th of her marriage, and never before had a child.
Upwards of 100 pieces of cannon, of a new construction, so light as to be carried by a man on horseback, and which carry balls from four to seven pounds weight, and 10,000 stands of arms, were shipped from the tower, in the course of the last week, for the use of the troops in America.
May 10. Advice is received that a Spanish man of war of 80 guns, which was cruising in the gut of Gibraltar, in company with two frigates, by some unknown accident took fire, when the flames were so rapid that the ship was soon consumed, and upwards of 700 persons who were on board perished. The frigates could not give them any assistance, it blowing a gale of wind; and the sea running so high, they could not hoist out their boats.
Extract of a letter from Paris, May 3.
"All the accounts we receive from the provinces are very melancholy; a scarcity of corn prevails through them all, and the price rises daily. They call on the authority of the king to oblige the rich, and the dealers in that article, to bring it to market; but as his majesty can only be informed of what his ministers choose to let him know, and as the people have received no answers to their complaints, a general insurrection is expected every moment. Beggars increase amazingly, and
do not require money, but bread. All the fine projects which were intended to remedy the monopoly of that article are at once laid aside.
"The king begins to love his pleasure, inasmuch that it is feared his youth will be passed in diversions, whilst his subjects fall victims to the despotism of his ministers."
Extract of a letter from Whitehaven, April 27.
"The last ships which arrived here from Ireland inform us, that the transports which failed a few days ago from Corke, for America, are put back through stress of weather, and that several of the horses are killed."
"Friday last an express arrived here from the Isle of Man from governor Hope, for major Dawson at Carlisle, the governor having received orders to join his regiment at Corke in order to embark for America, and the major is to succeed in the government of the island."
Sunday last the wife of a gentleman of fortune, at the west end of the town, poisoned herself, which as soon as she had done she relented, and acquainted her friends, who immediately sent for relief, but unfortunately without any manner of effect, for she died yesterday morning in great agonies. She owned that she committed the rash action in a fit of jealousy.
May 12. Lord Camden, we hear, has given notice to the House of Lords, that he will, on Wednesday next, make a motion respecting the province of Quebec. The said motion, it is thought, will relate to a petition his Lordship means to present that day from the British subjects settled in that province, relative to the late act passed for regulating and establishing the government of Quebec.
In the House of Commons yesterday, Mr. Burke gave notice of a motion relative to America on Tuesday next, and required that the members should be summoned to attend. It is to be founded on a petition from the inhabitants of New York. At the same time, Sir George Saville gave notice that he should present a petition on the same day, from the settlers at Quebec, against the act of the last session of the last parliament for regulating the government of that province.
More regiments are talked of to be sent directly to America, to speak in the language of the court, "to do the business effectually." It was the principle Mr. Pitt adopted when he came into administration the beginning of last war, of sending out a large force at once, in contradiction to the former minister's method of sending out only two regiments at a time, which Mr. Pitt ridiculed by comparing it to the custom of Dolly's chop-house, "sending up stakes hot and hot."
It is worthy of observation, that in all the king's speeches about 15 years ago, and before that time, there was always a retrospective compliment paid to the revolution , as well as a recognition of the
rights and privileges which the monarch enjoyed under that auspicious era. Now that period is as much forgot in the king's speeches as if it never existed, and seems to be only remembered, by hirelings and pensioners , for the purposes of obsequy and obloquy.
By a gentleman just arrived from Cadiz we are informed, that whatever may be the secret designs of the Spaniards, he will not pretend to decide positively upon; but that since the reign of Philip II. they never had, in times of peace, such a naval armament as they have at present, nor was the kingdom in general ever in a better state of defence.
On Monday admiral Duff will hoist his broad pennant on board his majesty's ship Romney, now in Long Reach, to sail for his government at Newfoundland. The fleet for that station is to be augmented to eight sail, exclusive of sloops, and other vessels to be employed in the service.
The Victory man of war, of 110 guns, lately taken into dock at Chatham, is going to take a cruise this summer in the Bay of Biscay, with an admiral's flag on board, in order to try her at sea, as she has never yet been farther than the place where she was launched.
A late robbery, not 100 miles from Soho Square, till the goods were fortunately found again, occasioned great fright and flutter amongst several of the polite female circles, as their jewels, to the amount of several thousands, which had been pawned , were in the catalogue of stolen goods. An agreeable widow lady , not far from the stable yard, St. James's, is said to have jewels to the amount of 4000l. there.
May 13. Authentick advices, just received from Hamburg, disclose a piece of secret intelligence which must alarm the British nation. The presence of the emperor's brother, and other foreigners of eminence, at the court of Versailles, incog. added to the multiplicity of couriers which have lately passed between the courts of Vienna, Versailles, Berlin, and Petersburg, naturally gave rise to different conjectures. The cause of those political phænomena is discovered. France and Spain have acceded to a grand alliance, which is now actually formed between Austria, Prussia, Russia, and the house of Bourbon. The object of this compact is the subduction of the smaller princes, free towns , and states; such as the Swiss, the Dutch, the Venetians, Genoese, &c. the dominions of whom are to be parcelled out amongst the confederated powers, in the manner stipulated by treaty. Whether England is to be admitted a sharer in the spoils, or whether her dominions in Germany and America are destined to be distributed amongst the allied powers, is not yet discoverable. Holland, Venice, Switzerland, and Bavaria, apprised of the actual existence of this treaty, have already expressed the utmost apprehensions; and they are taking the necessary steps to oppose a confederacy, which, if successful, must prove destruc-

tive to the Protestant interest, and to the liberties of Europe. As there are the most unquestionable proofs that the formidable alliance above alluded to is now actually negotiated, the publick will perceive what little probability there is of a continuance of peace.
In consequence of the recent discovery of the treaty secretly concluded between France, Spain, Austria, Prussia, and Russia, a report prevails in the Elector Palatine's dominions, that his Highness will shortly visit England.
Extract of a letter from Paris, May 7.
"Neither the revolt at Tours and Dijon, nor the advices received from different provinces, determined the ministers to give orders to prevent, or even to answer, the complaints; and the revolts are become so general, and so formidable, that, instead of obliging those who keep up their corn from bringing it to market, they think of nothing but repelling force by force. The environs of the capital, and capital itself, have begun. Compeigne, Senlis, Melun, and St. Maxence, have given occasion to Paris and St. Germain to do the same. The mob was so numerous and obstinate, that the marechaussée were repelled at Melun, and a detachment of the Swiss and French guards at St. Germain. They were served the same in the suburbs of St. Antoin, at Paris. Couriers have been despatched to Metz, Valenciennes, Lisle, Douay, &c. with orders to send 20,000 men to blockade Paris, and they are to be distributed in the different villages about a league from the town, and to shut up all the avenues of the rivers, so that Paris will be guarded by the king's household; and if the ministry do not change their manner of proceeding, we shall be at the eve of a civil war, and worse than the massacre on the day of St. Bartholomew.
"The queen was to have been at the opera last Tuesday; but the ministers prevented it, lest she should be ill received."
May 15. It was whispered on Saturday evening, and yesterday, that the parliament will be broke up sooner than was generally imagined, for the purpose of preventing some motions being made which were talked of last week, and are by no means relished at the west end of the town.
Sir George Saville hath been presented with a strong and spirited memorial from the people of Quebeck and St. Lawrence, to present to parliament in their behalf, and in that of their injured brethren of more southern America; another, of the same tenour, has been remitted also to Mr. Burke, from New York.
A gentleman at a coffee-house not far from Charing Cross, on Saturday evening, and who it was known has some knowledge and connexion with the principals in administration, declared, that a message had been sent from hence about a fortnight ago, by proper authority, to the court of Spain, importing, that if they presumed to concern themselves about our disputes with America, or to assist those misled people in their rebellion, they may depend upon it that England will never rest while Spain has a ship of war left.
The above gentleman at the same time offered to give the sum of 1000l. to any one present, to be paid the sum of 100l. for every Spanish ship of 50 guns and upwards which shall be taken or destroyed by the English in the space of 18 months.
An embargo is reported to be now laid on the English vessels in all the ports of Spain.
The reason that so much indignity is offered to the English flag, in all the Spanish ports, arises from the agreement made by the court of London to Spain, when
the latter gave up their pretensions to Falkland's isles; which was, that no English ships of war should take up any salutes in the ports of Spain, but those immediately of their own flag. These two articles are this moment rigidly observed. Is not this the first circumstance, in the history of this country, that Spain was ever suffered to treat the colours of England with indignity?
A pacifick prince is the first character in life, when the virtue rises from the true principle of a love of human nature; but when a prince maintains a peace at the risk of a nation's dignity, the character wants a name.
The virtues of lord Effingham begin to beam with lustre; none can look upon his conduct but they must be charmed with the steadiness and uprightness of his actions. In the House of Peers, he has been uniform and spirited in his zeal for his country's service; and now, when called upon to serve in America, by a persecuting spirit, he nobly refuses to take up arms against the liberties of his country. Let us now hope that so bright an example will rouse the vigour of many others, and that men will be found to refuse ignoble services; which should be reserved alone for the time-serving principles of the sneaking Scots, who creep into this kingdom like weasels, and suck our princely eggs. Are there no steel traps and spring-guns for this kind of vermin? Replied!
WATERTOWN, June 19.
WEDNESDAY last general Gage issued a proclamation, requiring all persons in the town of Boston who were possessed of spirituous liquors, or molossies designed to be made into rum, to make return of the quantity they possess, on or before Saturday last, on penalty of its being taken [ seized ] for his majesty's service. [ This is another fetch for plunder ]
We hear that one Porter, an attorney at Salem, was lately detected at Cohos, in conveying a letter from T. Gage to governor Carleton of Quebeck, requiring his very good friends the Catholicks may be forthwith sent to assist him in cutting the throats of all hereticks . The letter was found between the soles of his shoe. Porter, in attempting to escape, was shot through the back, and expired instantly.
WORCESTER, June 21.
A CORRESPONDENT has favoured us with the following account of the battle near Charlestown, viz. "The reinforcement, both of horse and foot, being arrived at Boston, and our army having good intelligence that general Gage was about to take possession of the advantageous posts near Charlestown and Dorchester point, the committee of safety advised that our troops should possess them, if possible. Accordingly, on Friday evening, the 16th instant, this was effected; and before daylight, on Saturday morning, their lines of circumvallation, on a small hill south of Bunker's Hill, in Charlestown, was in great forwardness. At this time, the Lively man of war began to fire upon them. A number of our enemy's ships, tenders, and scows, or floating batteries, soon came up, from all which the firing was general by 12 o'clock. About 2 the enemy began to land, at a point that leads towards Noddle's island, and immediately marched up to our intrenchments, from which they were twice repulsed, with great loss; but, the third time, they forced them. Our forces which were in the lines, as well as those sent for their relief, were annoyed on all sides by balls and bombs from Cop's Hill, the ships, scows, &c. At this time the buildings in Charlestown appeared in flames, in almost every quarter, supposed to be kindled with hot balls. Though this scene was
horrible, and altogether new to most of our men, yet many stood and received wounds, by swords and bayonets, before they quitted their lines. The number of killed and wounded on our side is not yet known. Our men are in high spirits.
The number of regulars that were engaged is supposed to be between 2 and 3000.
NEW YORK, June 29.
WHEREAS it has been reported, that goods were imported in the packet to this place, contrary to the association of the Continental Congress, the committee, having made proper inquiry, do certify to the publick, that Henry Jeffreys, commander of the Lord Hyde packet, has given full satisfaction that no goods have been imported in his vessel this voyage, either on his own account, or the account of any other person whatever.
Yesterday major-general Wooster arrived, with the Connecticut troops under his command.
PHILADELPHIA, June 27.
To the right hon. lord viscount BARRINGTON, his majesty's secretary at war.
MY LORD,
ALTHOUGH I can by no means subscribe to the opinion of divers people in the world, that an officer on half-pay is to be considered in the service, yet I think it a point of delicacy to pay a deference to this opinion, erroneous and absurd as it is. I therefore apprise your lordship, in the most publick and solemn manner, that I do renounce my half-pay from the date hereof. At the same time, I beg leave to assure your lordship, that whenever it shall please his majesty to call me forth to any honourable service, against the natural hereditary enemies of our country, or in defence of his just rights and dignity, no man will obey the righteous summons with more zeal and alacrity than myself; but the present measures seem to me so absolutely subversive of the rights and liberties of every individual subject, so destructive to the whole empire at large, and ultimately so ruinous to his majesty's own person, dignity, and family, that I think myself obliged, in conscience, as a citizen, Englishman, and soldier of a free state, to exert my utmost to defeat them. I most devoutly pray to Almighty God to direct his majesty into measures more consonant to his interest and honour, and more conducive to the happiness and glory of his people.
I am, my lord,
your most obedient humble servant,
CHARLES LEE.
PHILADELPHIA, June 22, 1775.
Extract of a letter from Watertown, dated June 21.
"I arrived at this spot on Saturday last, in good health, though much exhausted with a rapid and lengthy journey, in so warm a season. The thunder of cannon reached my ears some miles before I got here; the army of Britain had sallied out, and were then engaging our people, who had attempted a lodgment on Bunker's Hill. The line of battle ships, one frigate, the batteries from Boston, a number of floating batteries, and the musketry of 5000 British troops, were discharging incessant torrents of shot, for the space of six hours, on about 1200 Americans, without any artillery except 3 three-pounders; and, what renders the matter more remarkable, the regulars were twice repulsed with excessive slaughter, and finally gained the lines, with the loss of 70 officers killed and wounded, and 1000 men. Our men have intrenched on an eminence in Charlestown, about three quarters of a mile from the enemy's encampment. We have lost 60 men, and upwards of

100 wounded. Our troops are in high spirits, and eagerly wish for another trial. We have met with one capital loss: Our worthy friend doctor Warren was slain in the trenches, bravely struggling for the liberties of his country; and we have lost a few brave officers. On the part of the British troops, major Pitcairn, and a number of capital officers, are among the dead."
ADVERTISEMENTS.
WILLIAMSBURG, July 13, 1775.
WHEREAS we the subscribers, executors of the estate of John Turner , deceased, late of this city, merchant, being duly empowered to act, have thought proper to discharge Mr. George Reid , who for 16 months past has had the management of the said Turner's business and settling the late partnership of Allan & Turner : This is to inform the publick, that we have appointed William Turner to settle the said estates, and that he alone is fully authorised to settle every transaction relative thereto. All persons indebted to said concerns are requested to make speedy payment, as the debts owing have been long due, and their creditors in Britain , as well as Mr. Allan's heirs, are very solicitous for remittances.
WILLIAM PEARSON, WILLIAM TURNER, executors.
YORK TOWN, July 13, 1775.
ALL persons indebted to me are desired to pay their respective accounts to doctor Matthew Pope , and those who have any demands against me are desired to apply to him for payment.--- I have left with that gentleman, for sale, a cask of COOPERS TOOLS and AXES.
HOWARD ESTEN.
JULY 2, 1775.
THE creditors of the reverend Robert Read , of Kent county, in the province of Maryland , are desired to apply to Mr. James Hubard , attorney at law, in the city of Williamsburg , who will inform them of the only probable method they have of being paid. The application must be by the last of this month, or the middle of next.
THE subscriber intends to leave the colony for a few months.
2|| JOHN W. HOLT.
SUSSEX, July 10, 1775.
NOW in the possession of Mr. Robert Andrews , jailer at Sussex courthouse, a DARK BAY STALLION about 14 hands high, with glass eyes, a star in his forehead, is dockt, but not branded; he has one white hind foot, and some white on each of his feet. The said horse was found in the possession of a certain William Thomas (alias Morris Morrat ) who is committed to Sussex jail for horse-stealing, and, on his examination before a magistrate of this county, confessed, that, in conjunction with one Benjamin Pullam , of the province of North Carolina , he stole the said horse from one Mr. Norvell , of Henrico county. The owner, on proving his property, and paying charges, may have the said horse, of
JAMES JONES, sheriff.
CHARLES CITY, July 10, 1775.
BROKE jail this day, two negro men, late the property of the Hon. William Byrd , Esq; now under sentence of death. MICHAEL , a black, handsome, well made fellow, a ditcher by trade, about 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, and about 30 years of age. AARON , a yellow coloured well made fellow, 5 feet 10 or 11 inches high, 18 or 19 years of age, a blacksmith by trade. All persons are hereby required to apprehend the said slaves, and to secure them in any of the jails.
WILLIAM GREEN MUNFORD, sheriff.
Just published, in a pamphlet (Price 2s. 6d.) and sold by Alexander Purdie, at his printing office,
THE proceedings of the HOUSE of BURGESSES of VIRGINIA , convened in General Assembly, at the Capitol in Williamsburg , on Thursday the 1st of June , 1775; as directed by the House, that the most material transactions between them and the Governor should be seen in one connected and distinct point of view.
ALSO, in a few days, will be published,
THE MANUAL EXERCISE as ordered by his Majesty in 1764, together with plans and explanations of the method generally practised at reviews and field days. [Price 1s. 3d.]
WILLIAMSBURG, July 21, 1775.
ON Thursday next will be sold, at the Capitol Landing, by order of the worthful the court of York , all the estate of Matthew Moody , deceased, consisting of stock of all kinds, sundry valuable slaves, together with all the household and kitchen furniture, plantation utensils, &c. The terms will be made known at the day of sale.
WILLIAM RUSSELL, sheriff.
MECKLENBURG, July 15, 1775.
I INTEND to leave the colony shortly. || EDWARD TARRY.
Twenty Dollars Reward.
RUN away the 16th ult. JOHN ECTON DUCRECT , a native of Berne in Switzerland , who speaks very good French and tolerable English and Italian . He is about 5 feet 9 inches high, pitted with the smallpox, and very swarthy, almost as dark as a mulatto; wears his own hair, with a false tail, and is generally powdered, being a barber by trade. I have heard, however, since he went off, that he intended to cut off his hair, and wear a wig. He has been used to travel with gentlemen, and will probably try to get into employ that way, or with some of the barbers in Williamsburg , as he was seen at doctor Todd's tavern, on his way there, the 22d ult. He took with him a suit of brown and a suit of green clothes, the brown pretty much wore, and has had some rents on the back of the coat, the green almost new, a pair of new buckskin breeches, trousers that button down the legs, some white thread stockings and white shirts, a powder bag and some shaving materials, a prayer-book in French , and some old commissions for officers in the Swift's militia, by which he will probably try to pass. One of his testicles was swelled, which he says was occasioned by a kick he got on board the Justitia , capt. Kidd , the ship he came out in. Whoever secures the said convict, so that I can get him again, shall be paid the above sum by
RICHARD GRAHAM.
DUMFRIES, July 3, 1775.
BRUNSWICK, July 8, 1775.
COMMITTED to my custody, the 10th of last month, a likely Virginia born NEGRO GIRL , about 15 years old, who says her name is Betty , and that she belongs to Mr. William Black , late of Blandford . The owner is desired to pay charges, and take her away.
JOHN JONES, sheriff.
TAKEN up in Gloucester , a BRIGHT BAY MARE , with an old saddle on, about 8 years old, about 13 hands high, with a blaze face, three white feet, some saddle spots, one wall eye, a hanging mane and switch tail, shod all round, and branded on the near buttock with something resembling a heart. Posted, and appraised to 8l.
WILLIAM TEAGLE.
PLANDERD, July 1, 1775.
I INTEND leaving the colony for a few months. The store carried on here for mess. Dinwiddie, Crawford, & co. merchants in Glasgow , will, in my absence, be under the direction of mess. Charles Duncan and John Ray , who are properly authorised to transact the same.
(2) DAVID RUSSELL.
RUN away from the subscriber at Moss's neck, in Caroline county, about the middle of January last, a very likely Virginia born negro man, named RALPH , of a yellowish complexion, about six feet high, well made, and has remarkable large feet. He had on, when he went away, a light coloured flannel jacket bound with blue, German -serge breeches, osnabrug shirt, and a felt hat. He belongs to the Hon. Richard Corbin , Esq; and has been seen lurking about his plantations in Middlesex and King and Queen , where it is probable he may be still. Whoever apprehends the said slave, and secures him so that he may be had again, shall have 5l. reward, and if taken out of the colony 10l. (4) GEORGE TURNER.
REMAINING in Poropotank warehouse, Gloucester county, a hhd. of tobacco, inspected the 23d of February 1771, for Francis Willis , jun. No: 1, marked HWD in a piece, weights 1125, 95, 1030. The owner is desired to apply to the inspectors, WILLIAM DUVAL, GEORGE BOOTH.
STRAYED away from the subscriber, on Thursday the 8th of June , a likely bay HORSE 5 years old, 14 hands and an inch high, with a hanging mane and switch tail, his hind feet white, above the first joint, and his left fore foot, just above the hoof; he has a star and snip, but no brand. Whoever delivers the said horse to me, in Essex county, or gives intelligence so that I may get him again, shall receive a reward of 20s. ROBERT BROOKE.
STRAYED or STOLEN from Mr. William Graves's , in York county, the 20th of May last, a small bay MARE about 13 hands and a half high, that paces naturally. Whoever brings the said mare to Mr. James Southall in Williamsburg , or to the subscriber in New Kent , shall have 20s. reward. WILLIAM FEARSON.
TAKEN up, in the lower end of Brunswick , a DARK BAY HORSE , 10 years old, 5 feet 8 inches high, shod before; has some saddle spots, branded on the near buttock B S , and on the near shoulder, but I cannot make out what it is; posted, and appraised to 10l.
JOHN BLANKS.
TAKEN up, in Cumberland , a black HORSE about 4 feet 5 inches high, a blaze in his face, a hanging mane and switch tail, one glass eye, saddle spots on both sides his back, had on a bell, but has no brand. Posted, and appraised to 40s.
JOHN WOODSON.
TAKEN up, in Prince William , a dark bay MARE about 4 feet 3 inches high, a small star in her forehead, many saddle spots, but no perceivable brand. Posted, and appraised to 7l.
JOHN LEEWRIGHT.
TAKEN up, in Amelia , a small bay HORSE , mixed with white hairs, 6 or 7 years old, 4 feet 2 or 3 inches high, a short tail, part of his mane cut off, shod before, and branded on the near shoulder R . Posted, and appraised to 9l.
BRANCH OSBORNE.
TAKEN up, in Essex , a young red brindled Cow , marked with a crop and hole in each ear. Posted, and appraised to 47s. 6d. || ERASMUS JONES.

THE commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of the militia, and of those who furnished provisions, &c. for the late Indian expedition under the command of Col. Andrew Lewis , will attend at Staunton , in Augusta county, on Monday the last day of July next, to settle the accounts from Culpeper and that part of Augusta lying on the east side of the Allegheny mountains; at Botetourt courthouse, on Friday the 11th of August , to settle the accounts from Botetourt ; at Joseph Gray's , in Fincastle county, on Monday the 21st of August , to settle the Fincastle accounts; and at Bedford courthouse, on Monday the 4th of September , to settle the accounts from Bedford , and the neighbouring counties below the Blue Ridge of mountains: Of which all persons concerned are desired to take notice, and to give their attendance accordingly.
N.B. The accounts from Tyger's Bottom to be settled at Staunton .
THE commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of the officers, soldiers, and others, who have claims against this colony on account of the late expedition on the Ohio , give notice, that they will attend at Winchester , on Tuesday the 8th of August , to settle the claims from Frederick , Berkeley , Dunmore , and the counties below these; at Rumney , on Tuesday the 15th of the same month, to settle those of Hampshire , and in the province of Maryland ; and at Pittsburg , on Thursday the 24th of the said month, to settle those in that part of Augusta to the westward of the Allegheny , and in the province of Pennsylvania : Of which times and places all persons concerned are to take notice, and give their attendance.
RICHARD LEE. FRANCIS PEYTON. JOSIAS CLAPHAM. HENRY LEE. THOMAS BLACKBURN.
TAKEN up, in Prince William , a spotted Sow marked with a crop and a hole in the right ear. Also three SHOATS, two of which are marked with a crop in the right year, and a half spade in the left. The other is of the same mark, only the half spade is in the contrary ear. Posted and appraised, the sow to 15s. and the three shoats to 15s. 6d.
|| JOHN THURMAN.
TAKEN up, in Prince William , a black MARE 5 years old this spring, 13 hands high, shod before, and has a few white hairs in her forehead. Posted, and appraised to 5l.
|| RICHARD SPRIGG.
TAKEN up, in King William , a black Cow, with a white face and belly, her feet and legs white, a white spot on each side just behind the shoulders, marked with a crop and slit in the right ear, and an underkeel in the left. Posted, and appraised to 3l.
|| JOSEPH HILLYARD.
TAKEN up, in Sussex , a black HORSE 4 feet 4 or 5 inches high, with a hanging mane and switch tail, a white spot in his forehead, and branded on the near buttock with something resembling a figure of 7. Posted, and appraised to 8l.
|| EBENEZER SHEARMAN.
TAKEN up, in Amelia , a sorrel MARE about 2 years old, 13 hands high, with a star in her forehead. Posted, and appraised to 10l.
RICHARD FORREST.
TAKEN up, in Amelia , a brindled and white STEER, 3 years old, marked with a crop, slit, and underkeel, in the right ear, and a crop and slit in the left. Posted, and appraised to 25s.
|| PETER JONES.
To be SOLD , on Thursday the 27th instant ( July ) at Little England , near Hampton ,
THE remaining part of the personal estate of Mr. James Balfour , deceased, consisting of household and kitchen furniture (among which are several good feather beds, and some plate) plantation utensils, negroes, and sundry other articles. The negroes have been altogether brought up to house-work, and are complete servants. Credit will be allowed till the 10th day of October next, the purchasers giving bond with approved security; the bonds to bear interest from the date, if not punctually discharged at the day.
DANIEL BARRAUD , admin.
WANTED IMMEDIATELY.
A VESSEL capable of carrying 1500 barrels, to Britain . Whoever can furnish such a one will please to signify the same to Alexander Purdie , at his printing office.
JUST IMPORTED,
A CARGO of SALT from St. Ubes and Lewis town , in the ship Molly , Capt. Cowan ; which will be sold on board said ship at Hobb's Hole , or by the subscriber in Urbanna . JAMES MILLS.
COMMITTED to York jail, the 28th ult. a MULATTO LAD 5 feet 4 inches high, thin made, who says his name is Peter Weeks , and that he belongs to John Parker of Accomack county; has on an old duffel jacket, striped Virginia -cloth breeches, and an old ragged shirt. --Likewise, on the 1st of this instant ( July ) a BLACK LAD 5 feet 3 inches and a quarter high, thin made, has the wool on his crown cut close, says his name is John Thompson , and that he belongs to William Hack of Accomack county; has on a new osnabrug shirt, old purple coloured breeches, and a fustian or jeans coat with metal buttons. The owners are desired to prove their properties, and pay charges to WILLIAM MITCHELL.
FREDERICKSBURG , June 19, 1775.
AS I intend to leave the colony for a few months, all persons who have any claims against me are desired to call and have them settled. I must request all those who are indebted to me to pay off as far as they can, and give bond for their balances. Mr. Lachlan Campbell will carry on the business in my absence, and he is properly authorised to receive all sums due to me, and to settle every just demand against me.
(4) JOHN GLASSELL.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Gloucester county, on the 14th of this instant ( May ) a negro man named NED , about 19 or 20 years of age, five feet two or three inches high, rather of a tawny complexion, has some ringworms on his face, and some white hairs in his head; his clothing was an old brown coat, and a yellow striped cotton waistcoat. *I bought him last March at the sale of Mr. John Shermer , in James City county, for Mann Page , junior, Esquire. He was brought from one of his quarters in King William county, and I have reason to believe that he will go to those parts, or to his mother, who lives with Mr. Thomas Booth , in Richmond town. Any person who will take up the said slave, and secure him so that I get him again, shall be paid 40s. by Mann Page , junior, Esquire, to whom the negro belongs.
(tf.) JAMES JONES.
REMAINING in Gray's Creek warehouse, a hhd. of tobacco, inspected upwards of three years, entered in the books to the estate of Henry Harrison , No. 496, 638, 122, 516. SAMUEL JUDKINS. HENRY MORING.
F O R S A L E,
A TRACT of LAND, containing 3000 acres, whereon is a plantation which has employed, for some years past, twelve or fourteen slaves; this tract lies in the upper end of King William county. Also a tract lying in the lower end of the said county, containing 1100 acres, and pleasantly situated on Pamunkey river; a brick dwelling-house, with necessary offices, a fishing shore, and a lively fertility of soil, recommend the latter tract to any Gentleman who may be about to settle in life. Possession will be delivered on the 25th of December next, to the purchaser, or purchasers, who will have liberty of sowing fall grain. Mr. Benjamin Grymes , jun. of Orange , will make known particulars to any person who may be inclined to purchase the whole, or any part of the said tracts. Credit till the first of January 1777 will be allowed, by
JUDITH ROBINSON.
(tf.) LUCY ROBINSON.
BENJAMIN GRYMES , jun.
RUN away from the subscriber, at West Point , in King William county, the 21st of last December , a very likely Virginia born negro man, named MIKE , about 22 years old, six feet high, and stutters much; had on, when he went away, a suit of negro cotton, but may probably change his clothes. I forewarn all masters of vessels from carrying him out of the colony. Whoever brings the said negro to me shall have 3l. reward, besides what the law allows, and if taken out of the colony 10l. (tf.) JOHN WEST.
For SALE at Tappahannock,
A N exceeding likely young negro man, who is a very good house servant, understands taking care of horses, and is a tolerable good cook. If the purchaser is not perfectly satisfied with him after a month's trial, he may return him if in health.
(tf.) ARCHIBALD M'CALL.
To be SOLD in Amherst county,
FOUR THOUSAND acres of exceeding good tobacco LAND, being part of a large tract formerly advertised, together with a very valuable gristmill, upon Buffalo river. This land is equal to any that has yet been sold of the tract. The time of payment will be made agreeable to purchasers. Mr. Gabriel Penn , who lives near the land, is authorised to bargain for it, and will show it to any person inclined to purchase.
(tf.) CARTER BRAXTON.
For S A L E,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, near Newmarket , containing about 3000 acres of well timbered land, having thereon two plantations, in good repair, with proper and convenient edifices for farming, or making tobacco. For terms apply to the subscriber.
(tf.) JOHN BAYLOR.
For S A L E,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, contiguous to Mattapony , containing about 2000 acres of well timbered land, the property of Mr. Robert Baylor . The terms may be known by applying to Mr. Nathaniel Burwell in King William , Mr. John Armistead in Caroline , or Mr. John Baylor , executors. (tf.)
ARTICLES of Intelligence, Essays, Advertisements, &c. are thankfully received for this Paper, the Price of which is 12s. 6d. per Annum, Advertisements inserted as usual. PRINTING WORK done with Care and Expedition, and on reasonable Terms.

LONDON, May 20.
THURSDAY night an express arrived with the news of the death of the queen of Denmark, on the 11th instant, at Zell, of a fever, aged 23 years and ten months; she was born the 22d of July, 1751.
Every friend to the true interests of his country, and whose humanity is not confined to particular objects, must dread the expected news of a battle in America. In a victory over a natural enemy, if a thousand of the vanquished drop by the sword, we feel for them with only a common christian commiseration; but to read a formal "list of the killed and wounded" of our fellow subjects, effected by the caprice of a wicked ministry, must be piercing to such who have liberal and humane sentiments.
The late duke of Newcastle scrupled not to acknowledge col. Washington and major Rogers "two of the bravest and most experienced officers in the king's service." The colonel is now in his own service; and if he could fight so courageously for his king, there is no doubt of his displaying a redoubled valour for himself.
The Spanish ministry have given the strongest assurances to the British ambassador at Madrid, that the armament now fitting out in the different ports of Spain "is not intended to act against Great Britain or her colonies."
May 22. Saturday evening an express arrived from Copenhagen, but not in consequence of the queen of Denmark's death; some important national business is said to have caused it.
The remains of the unfortunate queen of Denmark will be interred at Zell (in the same vault in which the princess, spouse of king George I. her great grandmother, was buried) with all the honours usual to crowned heads after their decease. The report of her body being to be brought to England is very idle, even in idea.
Orders are given to take up some transport ships, in order to carry stores and ammunition to Jamaica; likewise for two vessels to carry salt provisions for Gibraltar.
The Russian ministers at Ratisbon and Hamburg are engaging a great number of German families, manufacturers, &c. to go and settle in the north east part of Russia. As soon as they enter, a man has eight, a woman five, and a child three shillings, heavy money, allowed them daily for their maintenance; and they are sent to Lubeck at the empress of Russia's expense, from whence they embark for Petersburg.
Sunday se'nnight an express arrived at Dublin, for four more regiments to embark for America. It may be remembered, that one chief inducement to passing the augmentation act was, that 12,000 men should be always kept in Ireland. If then four regiments follow those which are gone already (and which are not yet replaced) there will be a great deficiency in the number to be kept there; and this, besides being a breach of royal promise, will expose that island to the attack of the Spaniards, who seem to be meditating some capital stroke.
We are informed that miss Hutchinson, a daughter of governor Hutchinson, from America, is to be appointed a maid of honour to the queen, in the room of the hon. miss Johnton, deceased.
Orders are given for the men of war destined for the Newfoundland station to be considerably augmented, to carry into execution an act of this session, to prevent any vessels from some of the North American provinces fishing on that coast, &c.
A treaty of marriage is said to be on
foot between the hon. Mr. Hutchinson, late lieutenant-governour of Boston, in New England, and the right hon. lady dowager Townshend, mother to the present viscount Townshend, of Portman square.
The death of the queen of Denmark, it is expected, will greatly affect her royal husband, as he was just perfectly convinced of her innocence, and was taking such measures as promised her amends for the hard fate she had experienced; and had she lived two months longer, there is no doubt but that she would once more have made the subjects of Denmark happy by her presence at Copenhagen.
By letters from captain Bond, of the Charming Betsey, who was obliged to put into Guernsey by stress of weather on the 12th instant, we learn that when he left Lisbon, a few days before, a war with Spain was deemed inevitable, and that the Portuguese were making preparations to stand on their defence. He says their navy consists at present of only 13 men of war, and three frigates.
His majesty's most gracious SPEECH to both HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT, on Friday, May 26, 1775.
MY LORDS and GENTLEMEN, I CANNOT , in justice to you, forbear to express my entire satisfaction in your conduct, during the course of this important session. You have maintained, with a firm and steady resolution, the rights of my crown, and the authority of parliament, which I shall ever consider as inseparable. You have protected and promoted the commercial interests of my kingdoms, and you have, at the same time, given convincing proofs of your readiness (as far as the constitution will allow you) to gratify the wishes, and remove the apprehensions, of my subjects in America; and I am persuaded, that the most salutary effects must, in the end, result from measures formed and conducted on such principles.
The late marks of your affectionate attachment to me and to the queen, and the zeal and unanimity which accompanied it, demand my particular thanks. I have the satisfaction to acquaint you, that, as well from the general dispositions of other powers, as from the solemn assurances which I have received, I have great reason to expect the continuance of peace. Nothing, on my part, consistent with the maintenance of the honour and interest of my kingdoms, shall be wanting to secure the publick tranquillity.
Gentlemen of the HOUSE OF COMMONS, It gives me much concern that the unhappy disturbances in some of my colonies have obliged me to propose to you an augmentation of my army, and have prevented me from completing the intended reduction of the establishment of my naval forces. I cannot sufficiently thank you for the cheerfulness and publick spirit with which you have granted the supplies for the several services of the current year.
MY LORDS and GENTLEMEN, I have nothing to desire of you but to use your best endeavours to preserve and to cultivate, in your several counties, the same regard for publick order, and the same discernment of their true interests, which have, in these times, distinguished the character of my faithful and beloved people; the continuance of which cannot fail to render them happy at home, and respected abroad.
Then the lord chancellor, by his majesty's command, said:
MY LORDS and GENTLEMEN, It is his majesty's royal will and pleasure, that this parliament be prorogued to Thursday the 27th day of July next, to be then here held; and this parliament is accordingly prorogued to Thursday the 27th day of July next.
WATERTOWN, June 27. In Provincial Congress, WATERTOWN, June 21, 1775.
WHEREAS a number of our inveterate enemies have taken shelter under the protection of general Gage, and his troops, and have left a considerable interest, whereby it becomes necessary that some provision should be made for the disposal of the same: Therefore,
Resolved, that the selectmen and committees of correspondence of the several towns and districts of this colony, be directed to take under their care the effects and estates of the several persons who have fled for protection to Boston, or elsewhere, and to improve the same to the best advantage, and render a true account of the profits arising therefrom to this congress, or some future house of representatives of this colony, they being allowed a reasonable consideration for their trouble.
JAMES WARREN, president.
A true copy from the minutes.
SAMUEL FREEMAN, secretary.
Writs are issued (agreeable to the recommendation of the Continental Congress) for calling a general assembly, to convene at this town upon Wednesday the 19th day of July next. Adjourned sine die
NEWPORT, June 26.
YESTERDAY capt. William Dennis arrived here in a sloop from Philadelphia, loaded with flour, &c. Vessel and cargo are taken under the protection of the men of war.
The men of war in our harbour have, since our last, seized on 6 or 7 vessels in a fair trade, loaded with rum, sugar, molasses, and provision; all which, it is supposed, will be applied to the support of the enemies to American liberty.
PROVIDENCE, June 24.
SATURDAY last his majesty's ship Rose, capt. Wallace, and the Swan sloop, capt. Ayscough, with a tender, came up the river as far as Conannicut point; but not meeting with any prey, they returned to their station at Newport. While on this cruise, five vessels which they had piratically taken, and left in the harbour of Newport, were boarded by a number of people and carried off. The men of war have since taken several vessels in the river.
NEW YORK, July 6.
ON Monday last col. Lasher's battalion of city militia was reviewed by major-general Schuyler, accompanied by the brigadier-generals Montgomery and Wooster, in the presence of a very respectable number of the principal gentlemen and ladies of this town; when they went through the exercise and evolutions with the greatest order, alertness, and decorum. That country can never be enslaved, whose rights are defended by the hands of its citizens.
Yesterday, our Provincial Congress being informed, by a number of freeholders of this city, that our corporation had prepared, and intended to present, an address to governor Tryon, congratulating him on his return to his government, the Congress unanimously voted that they disapproved of the same, and ordered that the secretary serve a copy of the above vote on the mayor, which was done accordingly.
Major-general Schuyler has been pleased to appoint captain Richard Varic to be his private secretary.
William Lee, esq; late sheriff of London, is chosen an alderman, in the room of alderman Shakespeare, deceased. for
Alayon Ward

PHILADELPHIA, July 10. A DECLARATION by the representatives of the united colonies of North America, now met in GENERAL CONGRESS at Philadelphia, setting forth the causes and necessity of their TAKING UP ARMS.
IF it was possible for men who exercise their reason to believe that the divine author of our existence intended a part of the human race to hold an absolute property in, and an unbounded power over others, marked out, by his infinite goodness and wisdom, as the objects of a legal domination, never rightfully resistible, however severe and oppressive, the inhabitants of these colonies might at least require from the parliament of Great Britain some evidence that this dreadful authority over them has been granted to that body; but a reverence for our great creator, principles of humanity, and the dictates of common sense, must convince all those who reflect upon the subject that government was instituted to promote the welfare of mankind, and ought to be administered for the attainment of that end. The legislature of Great Britain, however, stimulated by an inordinate passion for a power not only unjustifiable, but which they know to be peculiarly reprobated by the very constitution of that kingdom, and desperate of success in any mode of contest, where regard should be had to truth, law, or right, have at length, deserting those, attempted to effect their cruel and impolitic purpose of enslaving these colonies by violence, and have thereby rendered it necessary for us to close with their last appeal from reason to arms. Yet, however blinded that assembly may be, by their intemperate rage for unlimited rule, so to slight justice and the opinion of mankind, we esteem ourselves bound, by obligations of respect to the rest of the world, to make known the justice of our cause.
Our forefathers, inhabitants of the island of Great Britain, left their native land to seek on these shores a residence for civil and religious freedom. At the expense of their blood, at the hazard of their fortunes, without the least charge to the country from which they removed, by unceasing labour, and an unconquered spirit, they effected settlements in the distant and inhospitable wilds of America, then filled with numerous and warlike nations of barbarians. Societies, or governments, vested with perfect legislatures, were formed, under charters from the crown; and an harmonious intercourse was established between the colonies and the kingdom from which they derived their origin. The mutual benefits of this union became, in a short time, so extraordinary, as to excite astonishment. It is universally confessed, that the amazing increase of the wealth, strength, and navigation of the realm, arose from this source; and the minister who so wisely and successfully directed the measures of Great Britain in the late war publickly declared, that the colonies enabled her to triumph over her enemies. Towards the conclusion of that war, it pleased our sovereign to make a change in his counsels. From that fatal moment, the affairs of the British empire began to fall into confusion, and gradually sliding from the summit of glorious prospects to which they had been advanced by the virtues and abilities of one man, are at length distracted by the convulsions that now shake it to its deepest foundations. The new ministry, finding the brave foes of Britain, though frequently defeated, yet still contending, took up the unfortunate idea of granting them a hasty peace, and of then subduing her faithful friends.
These devoted colonies were judged to be in such a state as to present victories without bloodshed, and all the easy emoluments of statuteable depredation. The
uninterrupted tenour of their peaceable and respectful behaviour from the beginning of colonization, their dutiful, zealous, and useful services during the war, though so recently and amply acknowledged in the most honourable manner by his majesty, by the late king, and by parliament, could not save them from the meditated innovations. Parliament was influenced to adopt the pernicious project; and, assuming a new power over them, have, in the course of eleven years, given such decisive specimens of the spirit and consequences attending this power as to leave no doubt concerning the effects of acquiescence under it. They have undertaken to give and grant our money without our consent, though we have ever exercised an exclusive right to dispose of our own property; statutes have been passed for extending the jurisdiction of courts of admiralty and vice-admiralty, beyond their ancient limits; for depriving us of the accustomed and inestimable privilege of trial by jury, in cases affecting both life and property; for suspending the legislature of one of the colonies; for interdicting all commerce of another; and for altering fundamentally the form of government established by charter, and secured by acts of its own legislature, solemnly confirmed by the crown; for exempting the "murderers" of colonists from legal trial, and, in effect, from punishment; for erecting in a neighbouring province, acquired by the joint arms of Great Britain and America, a despotism dangerous to our very existence; and for quartering soldiers upon the colonists, in time of profound peace. It has also been resolved in parliament, that colonists charged with committing certain offences shall be transported to England to be tried.
But why should we enumerate our injuries in detail? By one statute, it is declared, that parliament can, "of right, make laws to bind us in all cases whatsoever." What is to defend us against so enormous, so unlimited a power? Not a single man of those who assume it is chosen by us, or is subject to our controul or influence; but, on the contrary, they are all of them exempt from the operation of such laws; and an American revenue, if not diverted from the ostensible purposes for which it is raised, would actually lighten their own burthens in proportion as they increase ours. We saw the misery to which such despotism would reduce us. We, for ten years, incessantly, and ineffectually, besieged the throne as suppliants; we reasoned, we remonstrated with parliament, in the most mild and decent language; but administration, sensible that we should regard these oppressive measures as freemen ought to do, sent over fleets and armies to enforce them. The indignation of the Americans was roused, it is true; but it was the indignation of a virtuous, loyal, and affectionate people. A congress of delegates from the united colonies was assembled at Philadelphia, on the fifth day of last September. We resolved again to offer an humble and dutiful petition to the king, and also addressed our fellow subjects of Great Britain. We have pursued every temperate, every respectful measure; we have even proceeded to break off our commercial intercourse with our fellow subjects, as the last peaceable admonition that our attachment to no nation upon earth should supplant our attachment to liberty. This, we flattered ourselves, was the ultimate step of the controversy; but, subsequent events have shewn how vain was this hope of finding moderation in our enemies.
Several threatening expressions against the colonies were inserted in his majesty's speech. Our petition, though we were told it was a decent one, that his majesty
had been pleased to receive it graciously, and to promise laying it before his parliament, was huddled into both houses amongst a bundle of American papers, and there neglected. The lords and commons, in their address, in the month of February, said, that "a rebellion at that time actually existed within the province of Massachusetts Bay, and that those concerned in it had been countenanced and encouraged by unlawful combinations and engagements, entered into by his majesty's subjects in several of the other colonies; and therefore, they besought his majesty that he would take the most effectual measures to enforce due obedience to the laws and authority of the supreme legislature." Soon after the commercial intercourse of whole colonies, with foreign countries, and with each other, was cut off by an act of parliament; by another, several of them were entirely prohibited from the fisheries in the seas near their coasts, on which they always depended for their subsistence; and large reinforcements of ships and troops were immediately sent over to general Gage.
Fruitless were all the entreaties, arguments, and eloquence of an illustrious band of the most distinguished peers and commoners, who nobly and strenuously asserted the justice of our cause, to stay, or even to mitigate, the heedless fury with which these accumulated and unexampled outrages were hurried on. Equally fruitless was the interference of the city of London, of Bristol, and many other respectable towns in our favour. Parliament adopted an inidious manœuvre, calculated to divide us, to establish a perpetual auction of taxations, where colony should bid against colony, all of them uninformed what ransom would redeem their lives, and thus to extort from us, at the point of the bayonet, the unknown sums that should be sufficient to gratify, if possible to gratify, ministerial rapacity, with the miserable indulgence left to us of raising in our own mode the prescribed tribute. What terms more rigid and humiliating could have been dictated by remorseless victors to conquered enemies? In our circumstances, to accept them would be to deserve them.
Soon after the intelligence of these proceedings arrived on this continent, general Gage, who, in the course of the last year, had taken possession of the town of Boston, in the province of Massachusetts Bay, and still occupied it as a garrison, on the 19th day of April sent out from that place a large detachment of his army, who made an unprovoked assault on the inhabitants of the said province, at the town of Lexington, as appears by the affidavits of a great number of persons, some of whom were officers and soldiers of that detachment, murdered eight of the inhabitants, and wounded many others. From thence the troops proceeded in warlike array to the town of Concord, where they set upon another party of the inhabitants of the same province, killing several, and wounded more, until compelled to retreat by the country people, suddenly assembled to repel this cruel aggression. Hostilities, thus commenced by the British troops, have been since prosecuted by them, without regard to faith or reputation. The inhabitants of Boston being confined within that town by the general, their governor, and having, in order to procure their dismissal, entered into a treaty with him, it was stipulated, that the said inhabitants, having deposited their arms with their own magistrates, should have liberty to depart, taking with them their other effects. They accordingly delivered up their arms; but in open violation of honour, in defiance of the obligation of treaties (which even savage nations esteem

sacred) the governor ordered the arms deposited as aforesaid, that they might be preserved for their owners, to be seized by a body of soldiers, detained the greatest part of the inhabitants in the town, and compelled the few who were permitted to retire to leave their most valuable effects behind.
By this perfidy, wives are separated from their husbands, children from their parents, the aged and sick from their relations and friends, who wish to attend and comfort them; and those who have been used to live in plenty, and even elegance, are reduced to deplorable distress.
The general, farther emulating his ministerial masters, by a proclamation bearing date on the 12th day of June, after venting the grossest falsehoods and calumnies against the good people of these colonies, proceeds to "declare them all, either by name or description, to be rebels and traitors, to supersede the course of the common law, and instead thereof to publish and order the use and exercise of the law martial." His troops have butchered our countrymen, have wantonly burnt Charlestown, besides a considerable number of houses in other places; our ships and vessels are seized; the necessary supplies of provisions are intercepted, and he is exerting his utmost power to spread destruction and devastation around him.
We have received certain intelligence, that general Carleton, the governor of Canada, is instigating the people of that province, and the Indians, to fall upon us; and we have but too much reason to apprehend, that schemes have been formed to excite domestick enemies against us. In brief, a part of these colonies now feels, and all of them are sure of feeling, as far as the vengeance of administration can inflict them, the complicated calamities of fire, sword, and famine. We are reduced to the alternative of choosing an unconditional submission to the tyranny of irritated ministers, or resistance by force: The latter is our choice. We have counted the cost of this contest, and find nothing so dreadful as voluntary slavery. Honour, justice, and humanity, forbid us tamely to surrender that freedom which we received from our gallant ancestors, and which our innocent posterity have a right to receive from us. We cannot endure the infamy and guilt of resigning succeeding generations to that wretchedness which inevitably awaits them, if we basely entail hereditary bondage upon them.
Our cause is just; our union is perfect; our internal resources are great; and, if necessary, foreign assistance is undoubtedly attainable. We gratefully acknowledge, as signal instances of the divine favour towards us, that his providence would not permit us to be called into this severe controversy until we were grown up to our present strength, had been previously exercised in warlike operations, and possessed of the means of defending ourselves. With hearts fortified with these animating reflections, we most solemnly, before God and the world, declare, that, exerting the utmost energy of those powers which our beneficent creator hath graciously bestowed upon us, the arms we have been compelled by our enemies to assume, we will, in defiance of every hazard, with unabating firmness and perseverance, employ for the preservation of our liberties, being with one mind resolved to die freemen, rather than to live slaves.
Lest this declaration should disquiet the minds of our friends and fellow subjects in any part of the empire, we assure them, that we mean not to dissolve that union which has so long and so happily subsisted between us, and which we sincerely wish
to see restored. Necessity has not yet driven us into that desperate measure, or induced us to excite any other nation to war against them. We have not raised armies with ambitious designs, of separating from Great Britain, and establishing independent states; we fight not for glory or for conquest. We exhibit to mankind the remarkable spectacle of a people attacked by unprovoked enemies, without any imputation, or even suspicion of offence. They boast of their privileges and civilization, and yet proffer no milder conditions than servitude or death.
In our own native land, in defence of the freedom that is our birthright, and which we ever enjoyed till the late violation of it; for the protection of our property, acquired solely by the honest industry of our forefathers and ourselves; against violence, actually offered; we have taken up arms. We shall lay them down when hostilities shall cease on the part of the aggressors, and all danger of their being renewed shall be removed, and not before.
With an humble confidence in the mercies of the supreme and impartial judge and ruler of the universe, we most devoutly implore his divine goodness to conduct us happily through this great conflict, to dispose our adversaries to reconciliation on reasonable terms, and thereby to relieve the empire from the calamities of civil war. nobly raised! By order of Congress.
JOHN HANCOCK, president. CHARLES THOMPSON, secretary. PHILADELPHIA, July 6, 1775.
WILLIAMSBURG, July 21: YORK river is now clear of men of war, and the Mercury and Otter are gone to Norfolk, on board of which last ship is lord Dunmore. His lordship has taken possession, we hear, of a stout vessel lately arrived from the West Indies, belonging or consigned to Mr. John Brown of Norfolk, which he intends fitting up (with cannon, &c.) for his reception.
Mr. GEORGE MATTHEWS is chosen one of the representatives in Assembly for Augusta county, in the room of col. Charles Lewis, deceased.
Extract of a letter from one of the Virginia delegates, dated Philadelphia, June 30.
"You will see that our enemies had little to boast of, for being able to force our troops from Bunker's hill. It is no wonder they did so, with superior numbers, ships of war, floating batteries, and field artillery. Their loss has certainly been very great, and now they dare not go from under protection of their ships cannon. Our army now before Boston amounts to about 15,000 effective men, commanded by generals Washington, Ward, Lee, Putnam, Gates of Berkeley, with several brigadiers. In New York, we have now about 4000; and they are to be increased to 5000, under the immediate command of general Schuyler. The Canadians absolutely refuse to join Carleton, and the Indians assure us they will observe a strict neutrality. Thus, we seem to be well secured in the north against ministerial madness. A faithful observance of the association with us will surely rouse the sleeping lion ere long, and bring exemplary punishment on the most abandoned ministry that ever abused mankind and disgraced human nature. Sir William Meredith has cheated the Liverpool-men, and they are sending out goods as usual; but all their ships, yet arrived, have been sent back. It will be necessary, however, to keep a good look-out, to prevent their slipping in through other doors less attentively watched than this place, and Charlestown in South Carolina.
"We are here confined to a constant and painful attendance on business, from 9 in the morning, to 4, 5, and sometimes
6, in the afternoon; and, what is more, have not the most distant prospect of rising yet.
"We have sent to Virginia and Maryland for two companies of rifle-men from each province, and six from this, to join the army before Boston. Two millions of dollars are ordered to be struck, upon the faith of the twelve united colonies, for the payment of the continental army."
Extract of another letter, from the same gentleman, dated Philadelphia, July 5.
"The last accounts from Boston, and which are pretty authentick, inform us, that Gage lost in the late battle, killed upon the spot, and since dead of their wounds, 1000 men, and that 700 are still in the hospital of their wounds. General Howe is not killed, as was supposed; but there is the greatest reason to believe that general Burgoyne is among the slain, as he has certainly not been seen since the battle. In Boston, they say, that he is gone home.
"Another battle is soon expected; and our people say, they are ready to give a good account of the enemy. We have not the smallest appearance yet of the Congress rising. On the contrary, business multiplies on us every day; and many infer, that we shall not rise whilst the armies keep the field."
Deaths. Rev. JAMES MACARTNEY, rector of St. Patrick's, in Prince Edward.
Mr. PURDIE, AS I have the greatest reason to believe that I am the person whom the attorney-general supposes has made use of so much industry to propagate a conversation that passed between us, at his own house, relative to Mr. Patrick Henry (which I see he has denied in your last paper) I have sent you a true state of that conversation, sworn to before Mr. Graves, which I shall be much obliged to you to publish.
I happened at the attorney-general's, I believe some time in May; and, after some conversation, I asked him what time he thought the merchants would meet. He replied "Do you think the merchants will be such fools as to come to Williamsburg, with money in their pockets, when Patrick Henry, or any other set of men, might come and take their money from them?" I asked the attorney, whether he thought Mr. Henry would take any man's private property from him; his answer was, "He might as well do that as to have extorted the money in the manner he did from the receiver-general."
WILLIAM EATON.
The above was sworn to before me, by William Eaton.
WILLIAM GRAVES.
JULY 19, 1775.
To Mr. RICHARD BLAND. S I R,
PUBLICK addresses considered as essential to fair and candid inquiries, and expressed in terms of decency, become less disagreeable in proportion as they are more necessary, and generally are received with a suitable degree of deference and respect; but when, instead of establishing truth, they are intended to fix upon the persons to whom they are addressed the most opprobrious appellations; when, instead of modest and rational language, they abound with invective and illiberal abuse; they are not only unpleasing, but excite that just indignation which every man of sensibility, when injured, must feel.
* I hope it will never be my lot to

Should a harsh expression, therefore, drop from my pen, the impartial publick, I hope, will not consider it as the effect of inclination, but what the exigency of the case requires.
You say, "that, during your absence from the colony, I had, with much confidence, declared, you had solicited by letter some person in administration for a pecuniary appointment under government; that, in return for such a favour, you had promised to exert yourself to carry into execution the ministerial measures against the rights and liberties of America; and that I had seen a letter to that purpose, subscribed with your name." I deny the charge. Had the same degree of temper and candour directed your inquiry, and my relation of a conversation which happened in England, you probably, by being better informed, would not have been betrayed into that excessive virulence of expression which equally disgraces your abilities and age. The low arts of slander and calumny I abhor, and resign them to those ignoble beings, who, like yourself, set a value upon no one's character but their own. Believe me, I have never been so great an enemy to virtue as not to behold the character of every one in the most sacred light: I have always considered integrity as an essential ingredient to complete the happiness of man, and therefore was well aware of the delicacy with which subjects of such a nature ought to be treated.
"A young clergyman, who is just entering into publick life, would, you suppose, be very cautious of flinging out reports which reflect upon the characters of other men, unless he was certain of the truth of them." This argument, viewed in a proper and reasonable light, might also have induced you to put a milder construction upon my conduct, which you have censured in terms most odious and severe; for what could have more strongly indicated an infatuated mind than an attempt, at my first entrance into a publick office, to cut off all prospect of future advantage therefrom, by at once declaring myself a rebel to virtue and the happiness of mankind? This was to act against the known rules of prudence. What more certain proof could I have given of baseness and folly, than wantonly to have endeavoured to strip those laurels from another's head which I was certain could never encircle my own? Besides, sir, in society, I believe there are reciprocal duties. If I, as a clergyman, am bound to observe a more circumspect and uniform conduct than others, as a clergyman, I am surely entitled to receive the degree of respect which that character has always been thought to deserve. I cannot but wish that you had enlivened your instructive lesson by a corresponding example. I am really sorry that those thirty years, wherein "honours have been blushing thick"
upon you, should have been so idly employed, that you are now found altogether destitute of propriety and good manners. It is easy enough to point out the proper line of duty to others; but how difficult it is to pursue it ourselves, you have sufficiently demonstrated.
In what light to consider the last paragraph of your letter, I am indeed at a loss. That, a stranger to my person and character too, you would treat me so like the most degenerate of mankind, as peremptorily to pronounce that "I had boldly and industriously propagated an infamous and invidious falsehood," I cannot believe, unless you expected, by the clamours of guilt, to stifle the gentle rebukes of conscience, and, under the appearance of an enraged zeal for your character, to transfer upon me, as a liar, the odium which you were likely to incur from being a traitor. Whether this be the case, or an habitual practice in scurrility and abuse has rendered you callous to every generous sentiment, and insensible of the distinction between things that are decent and those that are opprobrious, I shall gladly appear before the tribunal you last mention (your own person I suppose is meant) to be informed. With however great care you may endeavour to preserve inviolate those honours which have accrued to you from being the first representative of a country for thirty years past, with however great pleasure you may reflect on your appointment to represent this country in the Grand Continental Congress, be assured, that I shall watch over my character not only as a clergyman, but as one who acts upon the principles of honesty and truth with a no less jealous eye, and that the proper discharge of my duty will be attended with reflections equally agreeable as that of yours can be.
Not to make atonement for an insult which I have not offered, but to vindicate my character, and to inform the publick whence your malicious accusations have originated, I shall relate part of a conversation, which happened the night before my departure from Gravesend, between a gentleman and myself; who, from the best information I could get, was a person of considerable property, and an unblemished character. This gentleman, in the presence of three others (one or two of whom is in the country at present, and I doubt not ready to attest what I shall say) asked me, "what I should think of the matter if he was to inform me that one of the delegates of Virginia had applied to lord North for the office of tax-gatherer upon the duties of tea." I, of course, expressed my astonishment at such a question. He, however, pledged his word and honour that he had seen a petition from one of the delegates to that purpose; that the correspondent of the delegate through whose hands it
passed had not any interest, nor even personal acquaintance, with the minister; that, in consequence thereof, the correspondent was obliged to get it delivered through the medium of a friend; that the last mentioned gentleman shewed it to him, while it was in his possession; that the delegate therein assured the minister, it had been in his power to inflame the minds of some of the people, that he could compose them at will, and only waited an opportunity to distinguish himself on the behalf of government." This relation naturally excited our curiosity to know the person, and conjectures were accordingly made. The names of several were mentioned, whom he declared to be innocent; when the name of Mr. Bland was mentioned, he said that he did not choose to discover the person at all. Thus was the matter in substance related to me, and thus have I invariably related it since my arrival in Virginia. How far this account corresponds with the representation that you have made, it rests with the impartial publick to determine. To have suppressed an information, which at the same time that it contained matter of the greatest importance to the publick weal, bore the most evident marks of truth, might have been well deemed a sanction given by me to secret villainy. Any disguised enemy I have always considered as dangerous, but when one, to whom the supreme direction of the affairs of the state is intrusted, took upon him that character, I thought it my duty, if possible, to drag him from his obscurity, and expose him to publick view, not only as a dangerous but truly formidable foe. That in this business, however, I proceeded with the greatest caution, and did not, in one circumstance, exceed the limits which either truth or my information prescribed to me, I can with much confidence affirm. A modest application, at any time would have induced me to stand forth the advocate of justice and truth, and declare what I now do, as thereby the innocent might have had an opportunity of clearing themselves of suspicion; but you, sir, in an unmanly and ungenerous manner, have extorted it from me, by the most base and false accusations; and, instead of leading a young man into the perplexing wilds of controversy with that moderation becoming your character and age, have, with rancorous malice, hurried me before the publick eye, under the the most unfavourable appearances.
I do therefore call upon you, in the most solemn manner, to deliver up your author, either in a private or publick manner; or, be assured, that it shall rest with you to make good the allegations in your letter.
I am, sir,
your humble servant,
SAMUEL SHEILD.
CAROLINE, July 12, 1775.
I do not, after all, believe Col. Bland to be the person I rather believe the whole to be a mistake by Mr. Sheild's Author

L O N D O N, May 26.
THIS day the house of lords was prodigiously crowded, expecting that the queen would have been present. A little before 2 o'clock the lord chancellor came, and the house went to prayers!
About 2 o'clock his majesty was seated on the throne, and having sent a message by sir Francis Molyneux, knight, gentleman usher of the black rod, to the house of commons, desiring their attendance, the speaker, with the house, came up, and, previous to the royal assent being given to any of the bills, the speaker delivered himself to the following purport:
"SIR,
"Your faithful commons present to you three money bills: The first for raising money by loans, or exchequer bills, for the service of the year 1775; the second for establishing a lottery, and for paying off one million 3 per cent. annuities, and for other purposes therein mentioned; and the other, for appropriating the surplusses of the sinking fund for the service of the current year. These are all necessary grants, but they are yet very heavy, and are what nothing but the particular exigencies of the times could justify, in a time of profound peace. The unhappy differences in America have been the chief cause of this expense; and I trust, that when the people of America see, in a proper light, the conduct of this country, they will learn to pay proper obedience to the laws. If, on the contrary, they should persist in their resolutions, and if the sword must be drawn, your faithful commons will do every thing in their power to maintain and support the supremacy of this legislature. A great part of the session has been taken up in determining complaints respecting controverted elections. I cannot but admire the wisdom of the last parliament in enacting that law; neither can I withhold the praise justly due to the committees, who have acted so much to the satisfaction of the publick, and so fully in discharge of their own consciences. On the whole, sir, I make no doubt but you will faithfully apply the money thus granted to the purposes for which it was appropriated."
His majesty gave the royal assent to eight publick and nine private bills, among which were the following:
The bill for redeeming one million of the capital stock of 3 per cent. annuities in the manner and terms therein mentioned, and for establishing a lottery.
The bill for granting to his majesty a certain sum out of the sinking fund, and for applying certain monies therein mentioned for the service of the present year.
The bill to explain and amend an act to establish a fund for defraying the administration of justice, and support of the civil government, of Quebec.
The bill for the encouragement of the fisheries carried on from Great Britain, Ireland, and the British dominions in Europe.
The bill for giving a publick reward to such person or persons as shall discover a northern passage from Europe to the west and southern ocean of America.
The bill to amend an act to enable the speaker of the house of commons to issue his warrants to make out new writs for the choice of members to serve in parliament, in the room of such members as shall die during the recess.
The bill for settling Buckingham house on the queen, in lieu of Somerset house.
The bill to permit the free importation of raw goat skins into this kingdom.
The bill to enlarge the term of letters patent granted to William Clockworthy, for the sole use of a discovery of certain materials for the making of porcelain. Also to several private bills.
The earl of Chatham is said to be dangerously ill, at his seat at Hayes.
There is now in the generality of Paris a line of troops, composed of 25,000 men, who are placed in the neighbourhoods of those towns and villages where markets are held, in order to preserve the publick tranquillity.
Barlow Trecothick, esq; was given over by his physicians last wednesday.
A squadron of men of war, completely manned, with six months provisions on board, are constantly to be kept at Spithead during the summer, to sail on the shortest notice, wheresoever occasion may require.
We hear that orders are sent down to Scotland for the officers to fill up their regiments to the full complement of men, as soon as possible.
A report prevails, that the king of Denmark is dangerously ill, some say dead.
The cabinet, it is said, is much divided on the subject of the Spanish armament. The question is, if Spain should attack the Portuguese settlements at the Brazos, whether England is not bound, by every principle of sound policy, to assist this ancient and useful ally? If it is determined by a majority in the affirmative, there can be little doubt that England will soon be involved in a war.
The odds in the city, and at the west end of the town, for a war with Spain, in three months, are 150 to 100; between this and Christmas, 200 to 50.
Yesterday twenty guineas to five were laid, at a coffee-house in the neighbourhood of the royal exchange, that lord Chatham would be in the administration, and that we should be engaged in a war in less than three months.
Extract of a letter from Portsmouth, May 17.
"Every sloop of war and small vessel at this port and Plymouth is now put into commission, and various services; but we have not yet received any particular orders for large ships, though war is talked of as strongly here as in London."
May 27. On Friday sailed from hence his majesty's ship Marten, capt. Parker, for Newfoundland, but has stopped at Blackstake, to take in her powder and guns.
Adices have been received at our court, that the French are embarking 10,000 troops for the East Indies. Lord Rochford, it is said, immediately waited on the French charge des affaires, who declared, that the above-mentioned troops were only to relieve those now in the islands of Mauritius and Bourbon. This answer being not satisfactory, a courier was immediately despatched to Versailles with a very spirited remonstrance. Some of the troops, however, are sailed; and it is supposed that a squadron will be immediately ordered to the East Indies, to watch the motions of the French.
A morning paper says: A letter just received from Copenhagen says, every thing in that city is in the greatest confusion; the queen dowager durst not appear in publick, and the king, on account of the death of the queen, is almost distracted. The populace, many of whom were the queen's enemies
when living, now say she was innocent, and that her death was occasioned by the false accusations brought against her by the queen dowager's party.
COVENTRY, May 19. A woman being tired of her husband, and the man being weary of his wife, the woman consented to have a rope fastened to her neck, to be led by it to the market cross in this city, and there sold to the best bidder, when she was bought by one Bland, for half a crown.
W A T E R T O W N, July 3.
CAPTAIN Tileston arrived at Newbury last wednesday, in 21 days from Newfoundland, and informs us, that a greater number of vessels had arrived from Europe for the fishery than usual, as the colonies were not permitted to fish on the banks there; but finding they could not procure flour, &c. several vessels returned home before captain Tileston sailed, and many more were soon to follow (their voyage being broken up) in order, it is presumed, to settle the fare with my lord North! ! !
Cannon have been exchanged, almost every day this week past, between the enemy at Boston neck and our troops at Roxbury; and yesterday morning, about 4 o'clock, a very heavy cannonade began, and continued till after 8, but we have not heard of any particulars, saving that the enemy fired two houses near the burying ground in Roxbury, by bombs, and that our forces have demolished the house lately occupied by Mr. Brown, on Boston neck.
C A M B R I D G E, June 20.
SINCE the battle of the 17th instant, a considerable body of the army have been employed in fortifying Prospect hill, Winter hill, and other eminences near Charlestown. The former, which is a very fine situation, and in full view of the enemy on Bunker's hill, is said to be now rendered almost impregnable. The lines on Winter hill are carrying on with great vigour, and it is proposed, we are informed, to extend them to those on Prospect hill. Similar works are carrying on at Roxbury. Breastworks within about half a mile of the enemy's lines, have been thrown up across the main street in that town. On a very high hill, a little distance from the meeting-house, is erecting a strong fortification, within cannon shot of Boston. The above works have been constructed to prevent any excursions the enemy might attempt to make into the country, previous to nearer approaches that may be made for rescuing that unfortunate capital out of the hands of its present unjust and tyrannical invaders. before
One of our Indians, a few evenings ago, killed two of the enemy's sentries, and wounded a third. before
July 26. None of the men who have been raised by this, and several other colonies, are, in future, to be distinguished as the troops of any particular colony, but as the forces of the united colonies of North America, into whose joint service they have been taken by the Continental Congress, and are to be paid and supported accordingly.
We hear from Exeter, New Hampshire, that a committee from the Congress sitting there waited on the province treasurer for what money he had by him belonging to the province, and received from him 1500l. which was safely conveyed to Exeter.

The enemy, early in the morning of last Sabbath, in return for some cannon shot they received from one of our fortresses the afternoon before, began, and continued for several hours, a heavy fire upon the town of Roxbury, both from their cannon and mortars. They set one house on fire, which was consumed, but did little other damage.
Last Monday night died of the wounds he received in the battle of the 17th ult. the amiable, the gallant colonel Thomas Gardner, of this place.
The following is thought to contain a true account of the loss of the enemy, including those who died of their wounds; taken June 29th, 1775.
Return of the killed at Charlestown the 17th of June, taken from an orderly serjeant in Boston.
Commission officers 92, serjeants 102, corporals 100, rank and file 753, total of killed 1047; wounded, 445. Total of killed and wounded, 1492.
HARTFORD, July 10.
Extract of a letter from Fort George (near Ticonderoga) dated June 29, 1775.
THE reports from the northward are various. It is thought, from the best accounts, that the Canadians will be very reluctant to enter into the service against the colonies, and it is pretty certain that general Carleton has hanged two or three of them for refusing, and speaking to discourage others. So that it is, on the whole, believed, that, through all the stratagems of tyranny, Carleton will dragoon a number of the Canadians and Indians into the service, and it is generally believed he is making preparations to come against us; but some think otherwise, and that he is only fortifying at St. John's, to prevent any incursions from us. Doubtless a short time will discover which of these is the truth. We have certain intelligence that Guy Johnson is making all the interest possible to raise the Indians about the lakes, and Oswegatcha, against us.
NEW YORK, July 6.
YESTERDAY general Wooster, and the officers of the Connecticut forces, dined at Samuel Francis's, in the fields, where an elegant entertainment was provided by the members of the New York military club. The day was spent in the utmost harmony, every thing conspiring to please, being all of one mind and one heart. The following loyal toasts were drank. 1. The King, and better counsellors to him. 2. The Hon. Continental Congress. 3. General Washington, and the army under his command. 4. The several Provincial Congresses, and Committees, in the confederated colonies. 5. A speedy union, on constitutional principles, between Great Britain and America. 6. Conquest and laurels to all those heroes who draw their swords in support of freedom. 7. Confusion and disappointment to the friends of despotism and the enemies of America. 8. May the disgrace of the rebels against the constitution be as conspicuous as that of the rebels against the house of Hanover. 9. All those worthies in both Houses of Parliament, who stood forth advocates for America and the rights of mankind. 10. The Lord Mayor and worthy citizens of London. 11. The glorious memory of king William. 12. The immortal memory of Hampden, Sidney, Warren, and every patriot who bled in defence of liberty. 13. May the enemies of America be turned into salt-petre and go off in hot-blasts. 14. May Great Britain see her error, before America ceases in affection. 15. May America ever be the dread and scourge of tyrants. 16. The daughters of America, in the arms of their brave defenders only. 17. Death and
be much of it.
jack-boots before dishonour and wooden shoes. 18. The glorious 19th of April, when the brave Americans convinced general Gage, and the friends of tyranny, that they dare fight, and conquer also.
July 13. The following is the most accurate list of the killed and wounded officers that hitherto has been collected.
Killed. Lieutenant John Bruere, of the 14th regiment; colonel Abercrombie, of the 22d; lieutenant Bard, of the 35th; captain Dutton, of the 38th; lieutenant Gould, and lieutenant Hilliard, of the 47th; major Williams, captain Addison, captain Davidson, and captain Smith, of the 52d; lieutenant Dalrymple, of the 63d; captain Hudson, and lieutenant Hale, of the 65th; captain George Sherwin, aid-de-camp to general Howe, of the 67th.
Marines killed. Major Pitcairn, captain Johnson, lieutenant Gardner, captain Campbell, lieutenant Finnie, and lieutenant Shee.
Wounded. Captain Balfour, captain West, lieutenant Barrow, and lieutenant Brown, of the 14th regiment. Major Mitchell, captain Harris, captain Jackson, captain Downes, captain Baker, lieutenant M c Lintock, and ensign Balaguier, of the 5th. Captain Fitzgerald, captain Parsons, lieutenant Kelly, lieutenant Hamilton, and lieutenant Verner, of the 10th. Captain Ottor Bayer, and captain Richardson, of the 18th. Captain Blakeney, lieutenant Beckwith, and lieutenant Lenthall, of the 23d. Lieutenant-colonel Campbell, captain Lynn, and captain Drew, of the 35th. Lieutenant Christie, and lieutenant Myer, of the 38th. Major Spendlove, lieutenant Robertson, and ----- Dalrymple, of the 43d. Major Smelt, captain England, captain Craig, captain Alcock, lieutenant Poole England, and ensign England, of the 47th. Lieutenant Crawford, and lieutenant Thompson, of the 52d. Lieutenant Haynes, of the 59th. Captain Stopford, and captain Follett, of the 63d. Major Butler, captain Sinclair, lieutenant Paxton, and lieutenant Smith, of the 65th.
Royal artillery. Captain Huddleston, captain Le Moine, captain Vans, and lieutenant Shuttleworth.
Of the engineers. Mr. Page, and ----- Jordan.
Marines. Captain Chudleigh, captain Averne, captain Branson, and lieutenant Ragg.
The Mercury packet, captain Dillon, sailed last Sunday with the mail for Falmouth. In the above vessel went passengers major-general Haldimand, major Hutcheson, captain Brehm, William Stark, esq; of London, merchant, and Mr. Edward Smith, with his family.
PHILADELPHIA, July 11.
A CORRESPONDENT informs us that one of the gentlemen appointed to command a company of rifle-men, to be raised in one of our frontier counties, had so many applications from the people in his neighbourhood, to be enrolled for the service, that a greater number presented than his instructions permitted him to engage, and being unwilling to give offence to any, thought of the following expedient, viz. He, with a piece of a chalk, drew on a board the figure of a nose of the common size, which he placed at the distance of one hundred and fifty yards, declaring that those who should come nearest the mark should be enlisted, when sixty odd hit the object.---[General Gage, take care of your nose.]
Extract of a letter from Cambridge, July 3, 1775.
"The greatest civility and attention was paid to the generals on their arrival at the camp, which was on Sunday, about noon. When they were within 20 miles
of the camp, they received an express, that the parliamentary troops had, on Saturday morning, about 6 o'clock, begun a very heavy cannonading on the town of Roxbury, which continued better than two hours, without intermission, though with little or no loss on the side of the provincials, and that they expected a general attack on Sunday, about 2 o'clock, at the time of high water. This we had confirmed, and I believe was prevented by a heavy rain, which began about half past 12, and continued till late at night. The generals have spent this whole day in reviewing the troops, lines, fortifications, &c. They find the troop to be 15,000 strong, and the works to be in as good order as could be expected. The regulars have been founding the shore this afternoon, and we are in some expectation of a visit the next high water. Our men are all in good spirits, and wish they may come out. The best account we can get of the late engagement is, that the regulars lost more than 800 in the field, and 700 wounded. Among the slain are col. Williams, major Pitcairn, and major Sheriff. It remains a matter of doubt whether or not general Burgoyne is among the dead. This we are certain of, that general Howe commanded the first division of 1700, and general Burgoyne the second of 1300, and since the battle he has not been seen in Boston; it is given out that he is gone to England. The provincials had not more than 700 in the action. The Welsh Fusileers (the best regiment in the English army) carried from the field no more than 17 privates, and one captain. It is also certain, that Gage lost 84 officers.
"Tuesday morning, 6 o'clock. Four horses of Preston's regiment fell into the hands of our sentries this morning, which was owing to the regulars calling in all their out sentries, as they expected a general attack from the provincials; which, we suppose, was owing to our viewing their lines yesterday evening. We went so near as to make them apprehensive we were reconnoitring, in order to find some place fit to begin an attack. The loss of the provincials, as by the return made to general Washington this morning, is 138 killed, 301 wounded, and 7 missing."
Extract of a letter from John Wilson, of Augusta, to Mess. Campbell and Son, June 15, 1775.
"All the Cherokee traders are come down but two, and I have the pleasure to inform you that they have overpaid their full cargoes. There is at present but very indifferent talks in that nation. They have lately killed two Virginians, that had gone up there express; which, I am afraid, will be the cause of a war. Should that be the case, I shall be badly off, having little powder in the fort. I am informed that one of our traders was stopped by the Indians, in order to bring a talk down."
Extract of a letter from John Stuart to Mr. Cameron.
"I have received information from general Gage, that certain persons at the northward have been tampering with the six Indian nations, and endeavouring to alienate their affections from his majesty. I mention this to caution you against any thing of the kind with you, and that you will use your influence to dispose those people to act in defence of his majesty and government, if found necessary."
Mr. Cameron's answer. "That Mr. Stuart's interest with the Indians was much greater, and that he was more beloved by them than any other man; and that he [Cameron] had the vanity to think that he could head any number he thought proper, whenever called upon, in support of his majesty and government." Cameron is Stuart's principal deputy.

Extract of a letter from North Carolina, dated June 7.
"We are much alarmed here with the intentions of administration, that unless affairs take a turn in our favour very shortly we shall expect the worst efforts of its villainy, that of spiriting up an enemy amongst ourselves, from whose barbarity, if roused, the most dreadful consequences must follow. Our governor has sent his family to New York, and, being greatly disgusted with the people of Newbern, has taken up his residence in Fort Johnston, at the mouth of Cape Fear river, which he has chosen as a place of retreat from popular complaints. Our brethren in the colonies may be assured that we never shall be bribed, by the benefit of an exclusive trade, to desert the common cause." [ Lord Dunmore and governor Martin have certainly compared notes. ]
IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1775. RESOLVED , that the two acts passed in the first session of the present parliament, the one entitled "an act to restrain the trade and commerce of the provinces of Massachusetts Bay and New Hampshire, and colonies of Connecticut and Rhode Island and Providence plantations in North America, to Great Britain, Ireland, and the British islands in the West Indies, and to prohibit such provinces and colonies from carrying on any fishery on the banks of Newfoundland, or other places therein mentioned, under certain conditions and limitations;" the other entitled "an act to restrain the trade and commerce of the colonies of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and South Carolina, to Great Britain, Ireland, and the British islands in the West Indies, under certain conditions and limitations;" are unconstitutional, oppressive, and cruel, and that the commercial opposition of these colonies to certain acts enumerated in the association of the last Congress ought to be made against these, until they are repealed.
A true copy from the minutes.
CHARLES THOMSON, secretary.
WILLIAMSBURG, July 22.
URBANNA, July 19, 1775.
Mr. PURDIE,
IN vindication of my own character, and in justice to Mr. Norton and capt. Robertson, I must beg you to publish the enclosed in your paper; that the publick may be convinced how little regard ought to be paid to the reports of John Parsons, and his apprentices. I am, sir, your very humble servant,
GEORGE LORIMER.
WHILE John Parsons was delivering me a vessel at Urbanna, my own property, and not belonging to Mills and co. as he sets forth in his advertisement, capt. Robertson arrived from London. By invitation, I dined on board his ship, with some ladies and gentlemen, when he obligingly spared me a pair of pistols, and a coasteau de chasse, which he had brought for his own use, and not for sale; I bought no other goods of him. Indeed, I verily believe he had not a shilling's worth on board; for I never saw such a clear ship. I never corresponded with mr. Norton, or received goods from that house; nor did ever James Mills and co. correspond with or receive goods from those gentlemen; nor had they any goods by that ship, or by any other from Britain, since last November. While capt. Robertson lay at Urbanna, capt. Massenbourg, a trader from Norfolk to this river, came up late one evening with passengers, whose trunks were landed here, as well as some muscovado sugar for James Mills and co. and two casks of wine and sugar for mr. Bennett Browne; which last goods were landed in the night (as capt. Massenbourg would not wait till the morning, the wind being
fair) and deposited in one of the warehouses of James Mills and co. by capt. William Boyce, who had the keys thereof. This is what gave occasion to the report which Parsons and his apprentices, have so industriously propagated. The above I am ready to swear to, whenever called on.
GEORGE LORIMER.
N. B. It may be necessary to observe, that it must have been the apparition of one of the company which Parsons saw on the bank; for I was seven miles from Urbanna, mr. Mills spent the evening at Mr. Gregory's with company, and Mr. Colby was at Gloucester.
MIDDLESEX, July 18, 1775.
HAVING received a letter from a member of the committee of this county, dated, I believe, the 29th of May last, informing me that one Parsons, a ship-builder, then at Urbanna, had reported that goods to a considerable amount had been landed at Urbanna, on Thursday the 25th of the aforesaid month, and put into the store of mess. James Mills and co. and being desired to call a committee to inquire into the truth of the report, I immediately repaired to Urbanna, and summoned the aforesaid Parsons to appear before the committee, to make good the report he had propagated; but he absolutely refused to attend the meeting of the committee, yet nevertheless was willing, and very much insisted, upon making oath before a magistrate, that he was not the author of such report, and moreover, that he had never seen any goods landed and put into mr. Mills's store, or any other persons whatever, contrary to the association of the Continental Congress. Upon which I told him, that in all probability his deposition would not satisfy the committee; that his personal appearance was necessary; and, if he failed to appear, the committee would be obliged to hold him forth to the publick as a propagator of falsehoods.
On the 6th of June the committee met; and the said Parsons not appearing before them, they, after the strictest inquiry, and by the testimony of capt. Boyce (being first sworn) who had the keys of the warehouse belonging to the company that very night on which the said Parsons had said the goods were landed, I say, it appearing fully to the satisfaction of the committee, that no goods for or belonging to the company had been landed and put into their warehouse or store, from capt. Robertson's ship, the committee thought it their duty to advertise the publick, that the report so maliciously propagated by the said Parsons was false and groundless.
To what I have above asserted I am ready to make oath, whenever called upon for that purpose. SAMUEL KLUG.
URBANNA, July 18, 1775.
UPON hearing that John Parsons, ship-builder in Gloucester, should say, there was a large quantity of goods landed at Urbanna for mess. Mills and co. I taxed him about it the night before he left Urbanna; but he denied to me he ever had said such a thing, and said he had or would go before doctor Spratt to make oath of the same, as he was summoned by the rev. Samuel Klug to appear before our committee, and asked me if that would not be sufficient to the said committee. I told him, he ought to appear in person.-----I was on board capt. Robertson's ship, who told me he was afraid of bringing even common necessaries for himself, for fear he should give offence. I am at any time ready to make oath to this.
HUGH WALKER.
URBANNA, July 19, 1775.
I REPEATEDLY heard John Parsons, ship-builder in Gloucester, say, that he saw upwards of 1000l. worth of goods
landed and put into one of James Mills and co. warehouses; likewise that said goods came from on board the ship London, capt. Moses Robertson. A few days afterwards, the rev. Samuel Klug summoned the said John Parsons to appear before the committee of this county; but he absolutely refused to attend, swearing he never saw one farthing's worth of goods landed. He also said, if it would be satisfactory to the committee, he would willingly go before any magistrate and make oath that he was not the propagator of such a report.
I am ready to make oath to the above, whenever called on.
ROBERT BROWN.
THE above-mentioned John Parsons told me, he was determined not to appear before the committee; but, if he thought it would be satisfactory to go before a magistrate in his own county (Gloucester) and take his oath that he never saw any goods landed, he would willingly do it, and send it up. The above I will make oath to, when called on.
J. ROSS.
Mr. PURDIE,
BE pleased to insert in your gazette; that as the publication in your last of the 15th, of mess. John Parsons, John and William Degge, and William Hudgin, can creditably be proved notorious falsehoods, that I think it is making them and their abettors of too much consequence to take any other notice than to advise the publick to beware of such men.
JAMES MILLS.
URBANNA, July 19, 1775.
THIS is to certify all whom it may concern, that capt. Moses Robertson, of the ship London, from London, entered at Port Rappahannock the 24th of May last, with ballast only.
Given under my hand, the 19th of July, 1775.
ZACHARIAH SHACKELFORD, Deputy naval officer.
At a meeting of the committee of Accomack county, at the courthouse, the 27th of June 1775.
SOUTHY SIMPSON, Esq; in the chair.
A COMPLAINT having been made, that James Arbuckle, a member of this committee, had drawn a map of the Eastern Shore, and that the sea coast was delineated therein, so as to furnish information to vessels to explore our harbours, and that the same had been delivered to his Excellency the Governor for that purpose.
The said Arbuckle appeared voluntarily before the committee, and acknowledged that he had drawn a draught, or map, of the internal part of the Eastern Shore, but denied that he had illustrated any of the harbours, or marked any of the soundings or shoals, which he had delivered to mr. Andrew Sprowle of Gosport.
Sundry witnesses were then called in, and duly sworn; and, by their testimony, it appeared that the said Arbuckle had shewn the said map publickly to many of the inhabitants of this county, before he parted with it; that he had drawn the same at the request of the custom-house officers, and, so far as relates to this county, from an old draught which he had made some years ago; and that the use the said officers told him they designed to make of it was to excuse themselves to his Excellency the Governor from a suspicion of neglect in office. And it also appeared, that there were none of the harbours laid down with such exactness as to give any new insight to any persons to come into them; and it

appeared, that the governor is in possession of the said map. And it appearing farther, that the said James Arbuckle has, as well heretofore, as before this committee, expressed great uneasiness that he should have been so imprudent as to have done any thing to alarm his country at this time.
Resolved unanimously, that it is the opinion of this committee that the said James Arbuckle is not intentionally guilty of any offence against American liberty .
A complaint having also been made against John Sherlock , of this county, that he has expressed himself in such manner as to prove him an enemy to the liberties of this country, and he being called upon to attend the committee this day, refused, but wrote them an abusive and insulting letter.
Several witnesses were then called upon, and sworn; and, by their evidence, it appeared that he had, at sundry different conversations, declared, in substance, "that such people as oppose the ministerial measures with America are rebels; that he shall be employed hereafter in hanging them; and that if no hemp can be got, he has plenty of flax growing." It is therefore unanimously resolved , that we hold the said JOHN SHERLOCK to be an enemy to American liberty ; and that we are determined, immediately, to break off all dealings and intercourse with him, and with every person who shall have any connexion with him, until he shall make such proper acknowledgments, and show such genuine marks of repentance and reformation, as shall be satisfactory to a majority of this committee. before
Resolved , that these proceedings be immediately printed in the Virginia gazette .
JOHN POWELL , clerk.
At a meeting of the committee held in Accomack county , on Tuesday the 20th of June, 1775 .
JAMES HENRY, Esq; in the chair.
WHEREAS the trade carried on in small vessels, in any of the rivers or creeks in this county, or goods imported by any of the merchants or traders here from any port or place in America, may be productive of very evil consequences, if not under proper regulations: For remedy whereof,
Resolved unanimously, that every master or owner of a vessel having any goods on board for sale, or any merchant or trader residing here having imported any goods, wares, or merchandise, from any part of America, shall not sell any such goods or merchandise, or part with the same in exchange for any commodity whatever, unless they produce a certificate, from the committee of the county from whence they were brought, to this committee, that the same were imported into America agreeable to the terms of the association of the General Congress;
Ordered , that this resolution be published in the Virginia gazette .
JOHN POWELL , clerk.
At a committee held for Fincastle county , July 10, 1775 .
WILLIAM CHRISTIAN, Esq; chairman. THE committee taking into their consideration the clandestine removal of the gunpowder from the magazine of this colony, by order of our governor, are clearly and unanimously of opinion that his lordship's conduct reflects much dishonour on himself, and that he very justly deserves the censure so universally bestowed on him.
Resolved , that the spirited and meritorious conduct of PATRICK HENRY, Esq; and the rest of the gentlemen volunteers attending him on the occasion of the removal of the powder out of the magazine
in Williamsburg , very justly merits the hearty approbation of this committee; for which we return them our thanks, with an assurance, that we will, at the risk of our lives and fortunes, support and justify them with regard to the reprisal they made.
Resolved , that the council of this colony, in advising and co-operating with lord Dunmore in issuing a proclamation of the 3d of May last, charging the people of this colony with an ungovernable spirit, and licentious practices, is contrary to many known matters of fact, and but too justly intimates to us that those who ought to be mediators, and guardians of our liberties, are become the abject tools of a detested administration.
Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the late sanguinary attempt and preparations of the king's troops in the colony of Massachusetts Bay is truly alarming and irritating, and loudly calls upon all, even the most distant and interior parts of the colonies, to prepare and be ready for the extreme event, by a fixed resolution, and a firm and manly opposition, to avert ministerial cruelty, in defence of our just and reasonable rights and liberties.
AT a committee held for Westmoreland county , February 8, 1775 .
Ordered , that every itinerant or casual vender of goods, who shall be found selling goods in this county, be obliged to produce proof to the committee that the said goods were imported into North America before the 1st day of February 1775, according to the directions of the Continental Congress.
JAMES DAVENPORT , clerk.
AT a committee held for Westmoreland county , May 23, 1775 .
Resolved , that every merchant or factor who shall import European goods into this county from any other colony, or district, shall, before he be permitted to sell such goods, produce to the chairman, or any one of the committee, a certificate from the committee of the colony, county, or district, from whence such goods were purchased, of their having been imported agreeable to the terms of the association of the Continental Congress.
JAMES DAVENPORT , clerk.
AT a meeting of the committee for the county of Bedford , the 27th day of June, 1775 . The committee being apprehensive that the inhabitants of the lower parts of this colony may, possibly (in the course of the present unhappy dispute between Great Britain and her American colonies) be compelled to quit their habitations, wish it to be known to them, that the inhabitants of this county will cheerfully give them, and whatever they may think proper to remove among us, the most cordial reception, afford them every possible assistance, and that they shall freely participate of any thing we possess.
Ordered , that the clerk of this committee do transmit a copy of this resolution to the printer, to be inserted in the Virginia gazette .
ROBERT ALEXANDER , clerk.
To deputy Peter Stradon , of Henrico county .
SIR,
IF the allowed maxim, that the examples of persons of elevated rank form precedents for the conduct of the inferior classes of people, holds good, you cannot be much indebted thereto for the subject of the present address. Your insignificance as an individual, however, is entirely overlooked, from considerative motives to the publick good. I cannot but pity
you in private life, however I abhor your publick conduct; neither do I conceive you can be so far plunged in wickedness, so callous to every manly feeling, as to be lost to the force of reflection, or a sense of conviction. Ingratitude is a crime of the blackest dye, and one of the most pernicious to society. Consider how much you are indebted to the society you live in, and how little you are entitled to infringe upon its choicest privileges. It is enough that they suffer you, ungrateful as you are, to draw the vital air in this their land of freedom; but to be ever subject to your repeated invectives, and practised artifices to mislead and intimidate them in their glorious pursuit of liberty, betrays an inattention and credulity unworthy of them, and, notwithstanding your weak endeavours to detract from the virtue of Virginians, certainly amounts to an ill-timed virtue of forbearance. Unsatisfied, however, by such endeavours, as not answering the intended purpose upon some, you exert every quality of the head, and passion of the heart, to misrepresent and magnify, to your own wish, every incident and occurrence, with a view to flatter, frighten, or deceive, the credulous and unwary, too often greedily devoured by them. Thus is sacred truth fully obscured, evil intentions answered, and falsehood appears clothed in all her sacred robes. I have before observed, that I pity you in private life, although I abhor your publick conduct. Actuated by these principles, detraction and defamation are alike foreign to my heart; it is to set before you the folly of such a conduct, by an appeal to your own reason and judgment, that I have been thus justly severe upon you. Mistaken notions, or false ideas, may in some part palliate your past conduct; but suffer not an ill-placed partiality to hurry you to extremes, which may prove fatal to you. Partiality for a native place is, in some degree, predominant in every breast; but when such partiality is converted to justify every error and misconduct of our countrymen, it becomes a crime of the first magnitude, even to the utter subversion of every principle of reason and justice. If you cannot utterly divest yourself of partiality, then, sir, determine to remain silent, and do not exert your weak efforts to the perversion of the justice of the great cause of America. Lay aside all odious distinctions, and consider not yourself as having a separate or distinct interest from this country. Here are your family, relations, and, I dare say, dearest connexions; and your duty to them calls upon you to sacrifice all ignoble views, which cannot but tend to their unhappiness, if persevered in. Believe not, sir, that Virginians will longer remain in that state of inattention they have hitherto done, or longer be idle spectators of your notorious conduct; but remember, that, like Englishmen, when once determined to follow the information of their own consciences, and abide by the conclusion of their own judgments, no reason or consideration that you can advance will be able to divert their pursuit. Another evil I would guard you against, is, that, allowing your own principles to be what they will, you would cease to distil them with so much pious care and attention into your own family. Consider, sir, that prejudices early imbibed, especially in youthful minds, are hardly ever eradicated. Suffer then the language of truth, and the dictates of reason, to be inculcated into them. Let justice usurp its empire, and that will be sufficient to preserve in them a love of their country, and a regard for virtue. In short, sir, throw off all connexions with politicks and politicians ; revert to your gallipots , and you will cease to appear despicable in the eyes of
C E N S O R.