The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1776-01-13 00:00:00

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LONDON, Sept. 26.
YESTERDAY near 500 freeholders of the county of Middlesex met at the Mile-End Assembly room, agreeable to notice from the sheriffs in the public papers: About one o'clock Mr. Sheriff Plover took the Chair, and, in a very sensible speech, told them they were convened at the request of some respectable freeholders, to take into consideration the critical and alarming situation of this country, and strongly recommended to them to proceed in their arguments with loyalty to their King, a love for the constitution, and decency and respect to each other, as the surest way to give efficacy to their resolutions. Mr. Mafcall then stood up and attempted to harangue on the miserable predicament Administration had brought this country into, but was interrupted by Mr. Pell, a Middlesex justice, who objected to the propriety of Mr. Mafcall's speech. Mr. Willmot, another Middlesex justice, begged the sheriff would declare the names of the freeholders who requested that meeting; but it being reprobated by other Gentlemen, the sheriff put the question, whether he should declare the requisitors, or not, which was carried in the negative by a great Majority. This leading question being determined, Mr. Mafcall resumed his harangue without interruption, wherein he declaimed against the Ministry for their late acts respecting America; their sending armed legions of Englishmen to cut the throats of Englishmen; their endeavouring to subvert the constitution, and concluded with making a motion to instruct the members on their present alarming situation, and held a paper in his hand, which contained instructions to be read to that assembly for their approbation or negation. Mr. Pell, with a good deal of ingenuity, acknowledged he loved to see the commendable warmth of an Englishman in the Gentleman who spoke last; but as the Parliament was very soon to meet, and he made no doubt with a disposition to hearken to all honourable accommodations with America, he could wish to postpone all instructions to their representatives, till the sense of the Parliament was known, and observed, that the Right Honourable Member (the Lord Mayor, who was present) possibly would not like to go shackled with additional instructions into the great assembly of the nation; that his Lordship had before made them public declarations, which he had most faithfully performed, and made no doubt of his Lordship's continuing the steady patriot on all occasions. In the course of his speech he gave oblique hints of the Lord Mayor's being acquainted with the intended resolutions, and concluded with declaring that he was not in the secrets of Administration, neither was he influenced by any party; that though he was a Middlesex justice, he desired any man to say he ever took a dirty shilling, or suffered his clerk to take one for him: On this the Lord Mayor arose, and declared he had no hand in the intended instructions, but if they were carried in that assembly, he would most implicitly obey them, as he thought it his indispensable duty to support the sentiments of his constituents, even if they differed from his own; and observed, the King called the Commons in Parliament, not to know the sentiments of the delegated members, but that of their constituents, the people of the kingdom at large. This declaration was received with bursts of applause; after which the question was called to know whether the instructions should be read, which was carried by a great majority. [The instructions were inserted in our last week's gazette.]
Yesterday, at Hick's Hall there were about 30 of the justices present, Sir John Hawkins Chairman. He declared the motive of calling them together was to consider of an address to the Throne, expressing their loyalty and attachment to the present government, and readiness to support whatever steps were thought expedient for reducing the colonies to a proper sense of their duty. The measures met with the approbation of all present. The following is the address, which was unanimously agreed to and will be presented to his Majesty on Friday next.
To the KING's most Excellent MAJESTY. "WE, your Majesty's loyal and dutiful subjects resident in this opulent county, sensible of the blessings which we derive from your Majesty's mild and gracious government, during which justice has been administered with an impartiality unknown to former ages, and under which every subject has felt himself protected in the enjoyment of all those benefits which is the ultimate end of civil institutions to ensure, humbly presume to address your Majesty at a crisis which we conceive to be a most important one, and such as is not to be paralleled in the history of this or any other county.
"We look back with awful reverence on that period towards the end of the last century, when by a revolution from which it were impiety to exclude the interposition of Divine Providence, the bounds of regal authority, and the measures of civil subjection were mutually adjusted and ascertained upon principles coeval with and interwoven in the very constitution of this country. To those genuine patriots and friends of religious and civil liberty, the actors in that noble cause, we at this day owe it, that persecution is banished to the realms of despotism; that illegal restraints of civil liberty are guarded against; that the ancient power of Parliaments over every part of the British dominions is recognized; and the supreme legislative authority, by a wise and happy temperature of various interests declared to reside in the three estates of Kings, Lords, and Commons.
"Reflecting on the auspicious event, and the numerous benefits that have followed from it, we seek in vain for the motives of that unnatural rebellion in North America, into which the inhabitants of some of the provinces thereof, not less by the artifices of a disappointed and impotent faction, than their own aversion to our religious and civil constitution, have been precipitated.
"To attain the ends of a lawless association, which aims at nothing less than an independence on the mother country, that would draw down destruction on their own heads, the legal government of the colonies, now in rebellion, has by degrees been subverted, and the allegiance due to your Majesty from your legal subjects there
has been extorted by and transferred to those, whose regard for the public is absorbed in the hope of private gain, in the prosecution of their traitorous purposes. The hostilities originally commenced by the Americans have been continued in a manner practised only by savages; and in the conduct of a war in which with unhallowed lips they implore the divine blessing, we behold with equal amazement and horror, the violation of those rules of war, to which humanity and the practice of all civilized nations have given a sanction.
"Miseries greater if possible than those of war thus conducted on the part of our enemies, have been denounced against the mother country by its rebellious sons, who by resolutions of non-importation have endeavoured to cut off the sources of our wealth, and by the dread of a famine to stimulate the industrious manufactures of this kingdom to oppose the power which has been their constant support. But, thanks be to God, the flourishing condition of our trade, the quick circulation of wealth, the state of public credit, and the amazing increase of buildings and mercantile improvements which present themselves to our eyes in every part of this country, are evident proofs of the futility of all such attempts, as they are of the flourishing state of the kingdom in general.
"With very little attention to the merits of the dispute, and without being able to controvert that fundamental principle of civil society, that protection and allegiance are reciprocal, the colonies resist the payment of taxes which their preservation has made necessary, founding their pretended exemption not on reason, equity, or natural justice, but upon the construction of those grants to which the colonies owe their political existence.
"The rights, whatever they are which the Americans claim, are founded in charters from time to time granted by your Majesty's royal predecessors under proper limitations and restrictions, and with savings in favour of the legislative authority of this kingdom. With the greatest professions of zeal for liberty do these infatuated people exalt the regal into arbitrary power, and from principles of law and logic, which are now for the first time advanced, contend that the acts of the aggregate legislative body are of less force to bind the subjects than those of an integral part thereof; and with all the insidious arts of adulation, your Majesty is courted to accept of that absolute power which you have uniformly disclaimed, as well by the whole tenor of your conduct, as by referring the means of preserving the supremacy of this country over the colonies to the great council of the nation.
"For this singular instance of moderation, as for every other benefit which we derive from your Majesty's paternal care and watchful regard for our interests, receive, most gracious Sovereign, the sincere and humble acknowledgments of us, your Majesty's faithful and loyal subjects; and as the merciful forbearance hitherto shown to the colonies in rebellion, would, if further extended, be injurious to the interests of the whole British empire, accept also this tender of every assistance which we are capable of rendering towards establishing the authority of the British legislature over its colonies and dependencies, while with unfeigned zeal we supplicate the Supreme Disposer of all events for prosperity on these wise and lenient, but steady councils, which are resolved on, and we doubt not will be pursued, for effectuating this important and necessary purpose."
It is held a certain fact, that, on account of the disagreeableness of the service, no officer of rank or note hath gone to America without a gratuity of 1000 or 500 guineas, besides all his other appointments for table, horses, and service, and free transportation to Boston.
The noble Lord who lately resigned his commission, because he foresaw that American blood would be unjustifiably spilt, we hear, has been refused the privilege of keeping his military rank.
However other branches of trade may thrive, the American, West-Indian, and African, must sink. The sudden decay of trade finally produceth every species of disorder. The dreadful scene at Liverpool is but the beginning of some calamities, ALL chargeable on the Ministry. This scene of horror and bloodshed will soon, in all probability, be more than equalled at Whitehaven, Glasgow, and other western ports. And who shall say, that none of these violent shakings will shake the throne?
A morning paper of yesterday says, "The British army now in America, together with the reinforcement ordered for that part of the world, will make a body of more than 20,000 men. To these are to be added 26,000 Russians, and 10,000 Hessians, Hanoverians, and Württembergers; the whole are to take the field in April next." But the writer of this splendid account has forgot a very material article, viz. 10,000 Canadians under General Carleton, as the French call him, which will amount, in the whole, to 66,000. Our correspondent adds, "if Gage's army, not exceeding 6,000 men, are starving during the best season of the year, which way are ten times that number to subsist?
We are credibly informed, that contractor Melish is gone to Huntingdonshire to buy up two thousand more sheep for the purpose of supplying the army in Boston. As the far greater part of these sheep will most probably die on their passage, and such as survive, from the loss of flesh, &c. be rendered of little worth (not to say unwholesome) by disease. Query, is not this distressing the poor at home, without a probability of affording the army any effectual relief abroad? And if Government are reduced to such wretched shifts to support from 6 to 10,000 men, how are the 20 or 30,000 foreigners to be provided for?
Private letters from Corke say, that the soldiers who are to be sent to America murmur exceedingly. They are so averse to the service, that most of them have declared, if they are forced on board the transports, they will take the first opportunity to desert. The letter adds, that this declaration has given great uneasiness to the officers.
All the ships in the harbour of Gosport fitting out for Boston are nearly ready, and will go to Spithead very shortly.
A young nobleman, no less amiable for his private than illustrious for his public virtues, has, we hear, declared himself a friend to the plan on which the London association is formed. It is not doubted but an example of this kind will induce such of our
Nobles as possess the principles of patriotism, to lend their aid to a scheme in favour of constitutional liberty.
Monday sailed from the river with flour for the troops at Boston, the Warner, Capt. Hammond.
By authentic accounts from Boston, the army there is in a most deplorable state. Lord Percy's regiment can turn out only 130 men fit to do duty, by this time probably half the number, and 100 of those wounded at Bunker's hill are since dead. The Generals Gage and Burgoyne are coming home, and may be daily expected here. The latter of them, notwithstanding his parade of the English power in his letter to General Lee, is coming to confirm what he lately wrote home, that "20,000 men would be a feeble reinforcement in the present situation of the army."
The Government have contracted with Felix Calvert and Henry Thrale, Esquires, to furnish 5000 butts of strong beer each, to be shipped with all possible despatch for the use of his Majesty's troops at Boston. A contract is also entered into with Mr. Slade, to furnish 5000 chaldron of coals; and Mr. Duffy, of Tooley street, a very large quantity of potatoes; and on Monday a quantity of fagots were shipped on board several transports at Deptford. Happily there is a very large fleet of colliers in the river, or it is imagined, the above extensive contract would greatly enhance the price of coals, as they are all taken at the market price, which is a sufficient proof of the necessities of Government.
In a letter from Boston, dated the 20th of August, to a Gentleman in this city, it is said, that fourteen officers under General Gage, had resigned their commissions, and would return home with one of the first ships. Several reasons are assigned; one amongst the rest is that of some officers from home being promoted in the room of those killed or disabled in the late engagements. It is added, that the General would have come home with his Lady in the Charming Nancy had not the above circumstance happened to detain him some time longer.
Extract of a letter from BARCELONA, Sept. 6. "They write from Alicante of the 20th ult. that the night before General O'Reilly, the Admiral Castejon, and three other Generals, had sailed on board two frigates, under convoy of five men of war of the line, as it is said, for Cadiz, where it is supposed these Gentlemen will meet with further orders."
The following six regiments are coming home, viz. 18th, 51st, and 50th, from North America and the West Indies; the 69th, from Gibraltar; the 13th, 25th, and 2d battalion of the Royals from Minorca.
The army and fleet at Boston have discretionary orders to winter wherever they shall think it most convenient and safe.
The following RESOLUTIONS of the merchants, traders, and others interested, and well wishers to, American commerce, of the city of Bristol, were agreed to previous to drawing up the address to his Majesty which we inserted in our last, at a meeting held by them on Wednesday the 26th of September last: Mr. Hayes, an eminent American merchant, in the chair.
BRISTOL, Sept. 30.
RESOLVED, 1 THAT the trade with North America is of very great advantage to Great Britain in general, and to this city in particular.
2. That any measures which contribute to the destruction of that trade, are an essential injury to the internal commerce and manufactures of this kingdom.
3. That the present unhappy contest between Great Britain and her colonies hath a manifest tendency to destroy the commercial connection, and political union which have for many years subsisted between the two countries.
4. That the loss of our trade to America will deprive many thousand industrious poor of the means of procuring a daily subsistence, (a melancholy fact!) of which we have already ample experience in this city.
5. That the late importation of American grain into this city hath greatly contributed to lower the price of all the necessaries of life, and has been the means of preserving multitudes from the calamitous consequences of famine.
6. That an approbation of measures calculated to destroy the commercial intercourse between the two countries, and spread the horrors of a civil war over a very considerable part of the British dominions, would be highly disgraceful to the inhabitants of a city that depends solely upon trade for its support; and to every friend to humanity and the general happiness of society.
A motion was then made, that a petition be presented to his Majesty, praying his interposition to put a stop to a ruinous civil war, that our trade may thereby be restored to its former flourishing state. One person objected to it, on a supposed disinclination in his Majesty to receive petitions respecting the American dispute. He was replied to, and appeared to be convinced. A petition was then produced, read paragraph by paragraph, and passed without a dissenting voice. The petition was then signed by the Gentlemen present, and afterwards left at the Bush tavern, Corn street; and when the signatures are fully completed, it is to be presented to the King by our representatives in Parliament.
On Monday the 18th instant the following letter was sent to the Right Worshipful Charles Hotchkis, Esq. Mayor.
"SIR, "A great number of respectable fellow citizens, being desirous that an address be sent to his Majesty on the present situation of affairs. We take the liberty to request your Worship will call a House for that purpose, and are with great respect, Sir,
Your most obedient and very humble servants, (Signed) Thomas Tyndall, John Hobhouse, Michael Miller, William Miller, William Hart, James Reed, Slade Baker, Richard Meyer, John Powell, John Faugban, Nicholas Perry, Thomas Warren."
In consequence of the above, summonses were sent to the members of the Corporation, to attend in the Council House on Thursday the 27th, but a sufficient number did not attend to make a House.

Upon this many citizens applied to the Mayor for the use of the Guildhall on Thursday following, to assemble in, to address his Majesty on the situation of affairs between Great Britain and the American colonies; the Hall was readily granted, and notice thereof was given in the public papers.
On Monday the 25th, Messrs. Samuel Brailsford, John Fisher Weare, and Richard Champion, applied to the Mayor for the Hall on Wednesday, that the American merchants, traders, and the well-wishers to American commerce, might meet there to consider of a petition to his Majesty; they met accordingly on that day, to the number of about fifty persons; Mr. Hayes, a Gentleman lately settled here, from New York, was called to the chair: A petition was produced and read, a proposal being made for the Chairman to sign it for the whole, which he very prudently declined; it was then signed by those present, and it is now industriously carried about, and every influence exerted to obtain names to it.
Though it was generally understood that this petition was merely set up in opposition to the address, yet not the least obtrusion was made to it by any of the independent merchants and citizens.
Thursday at twelve o'clock, Mr. Mayor went from the Council House to the Guildhall, attended by the Sheriffs, with many members of the corporation, and the greatest number of respectable citizens ever known on the like occasion; his Worship being in the chair, the business was opened in a manly, sensible speech, by George Daubeny, Esq; setting forth that he was directed to return his Worship the thanks of the citizens of Bristol for his readiness in granting them the Hall, and was desired to express the grateful sense they entertained of the honour of his presence on this occasion; he then begged leave to lay before them an address, drawn up by a committee of Gentlemen appointed for that purpose, which he hoped would meet with general approbation.
To this the Mayor replied nearly as follows: "That he should always retain the most grateful remembrance of the honour this day done him, and should be glad of every opportunity to testify his real regard for the true interest and welfare of the city of Bristol."
A motion was then made for the address to be read, it was much approved, and desired to be read a second time; an attempt to oppose it was then made by the persons who met to petition the preceding day. Their Chairman, Mr. Hayes, who was deputed by them to attend, was heard with candor; and in reply, was informed that as no interruption had been made to their proceedings the day before, it was expected, they would not disturb this day's meeting; they notwithstanding continued to obstruct in a very indecent manner, but numbers soon prevailed, and they were silenced. The address was signed, and the Mayor, Sheriffs, with some principal citizens, were requested to present it to his Majesty in the most respectful manner.
The address was immediately signed by a great number of citizens, and we hear, that it will be left in the committee room of the Taylor's-hall, till Monday next from eleven to two o'clock, for such as are disposed to sign it.
A PICTURE of a CERTAIN NATION.
A PRINCE with a dozen children and an empty treasury. His Queen yearly remitting large sums to the bank of Venice, for fear of accidents.
His servants five quarters in arrears. All his tradesmen bills the same. This Great Man at variance with his brothers. His brothers, happily for him, unable to take any part against him.
His Ministers, the natural and avowed enemies of his Country. His Secretaries without the knowledge of naval, mercantile, or military affairs.
His Parliament venal, bribed, prostituted, and corrupted, firmly leagued against the honour of the kingdom and the colonies.
His Bishops recommenders of blood, and not of peace, charity, and good-will to men.
His lawyers, crafters of records, and prostitutes of the laws.
His chief lawyer, an intimate, a confident, of that very Parliament who contended for his Crown.
His army, cut off in its pride and ruined.
His navy, broken-backed, worn-eaten, and unmanned.
His artificers, oppressed and discharged, the volunteers of Spain.
His Nobles debilitated with luxury, whoredom, and gaming.
His Lady Nobles, prostitutes to play, &c.
His merchants, without imports or exports.
His Exchequer, empty.
His churches, cold and abandoned.
His gaols full.
The poor starving.
The rich engrossers of the corn.
The colonies of America, conquerors of those he sent to tax them, and despisers of his power and menaces.
His factories in India, in tumult and oppression.
His subjects in Guinea, over-run with French, and without trade.
His West India isles, without supplies.
His foes equipping great fleets, and raising great armies.
And in the midst of this crash of ruin, this great man can go composedly to see a puppet show, or laugh with a buffoon..
O wretched England!
In PROVINCIAL CONGRESS, NEW YORK, December 14, 1775.
On motion, THE Congress taking into consideration his Excellency Governor Tryon's paper of the 14th instant, directed to the inhabitants of New York, came into the following resolutions:
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this Congress, that none of the people of this colony have withdrawn their allegiance from his Majesty.
Resolved, that the supposed present "turbulent state" of this colony arises not from the want of a proper attachment to our Prince, and the establishment in the illustrious House of Hanover, nor from a desire to become independent of the British Crown, or a spirit of opposition to that just and equal rule to which, by the British constitution, and our antient and established form of government, we are subject; but solely from the inroads made on both by oppressive acts of the British Parliament, devised for enslaving his Majesty's liege subjects in the American colonies, and the hostile attempts of the Ministry to carry those acts into execution.
Resolved, that though this colony, in conjunction with the other united colonies, has had recourse to the appointment of congresses and committees, for the more orderly and effectual redress of their numerous and heavy grievances; yet it is by no means the desire or design of its inhabitants to disuse, much less to oppose, or obstruct the ordinary course of legislation; but that they highly esteem their right of being represented in General Assembly.
Resolved, nevertheless, that it is the opinion of this Congress, that nothing of a salutary nature can be expected from a separate declaration of the sense of this colony on the resolution of the House of Commons on the 20th of February last; and that, as the motion whereon the same was grounded was confessedly framed to disunite the colonies, it would be highly dangerous to, and totally inconsistent with, the glorious plan of American union, should this colony express their separate sense on the above-mentioned supposed conciliatory proposal on the part of Great Britain.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this Congress, that this colony is fully and effectually represented in the Continental Congress, for the purpose of expressing the sense of its inhabitants on any overtures for a reconciliation, and that the Continental Congress has fully and dispassionately expressed the sense of the inhabitants of this colony on the above-mentioned resolution of the 20th of February last. A true copy from the minutes. ROBERT BENSON, Sec'y.
A N E C D O T E.
HIS Grace the Duke of Leinster having a particular friendship for a young banker in Dublin, arising from his love of patriotism, and general good character, lately returned him for one of his boroughs, and when the other waited on him to thank him for his favour, his Grace addressed him in the following manner: "Sir, I have returned you for this borough, because I think you a good private character, and a man fit to serve your country. I have, however, one condition to settle with you about it in return; which is, that in every parliamentary discussion whatsoever, you never consider yourself in the least connected with me, or with my interests." Such a patronage, whilst it reflects the highest honour on the noble Duke, sets a noble example to men of his rank in the state.
ST. GEORGE'S (Grenada) Nov. 4.
ON Wednesday last, the 1st instant, a most dreadful fire happened here, which again laid the greatest part of this ill-fated town in ashes. It broke out about half an hour after 3 o'clock in the morning, in a Negro hut behind the house of John Knight, Esq; on the hill, and it being then calm, there was at first some hope of getting it under; but the wind springing up and freshening as the fire encreased, it spread, in all directions, with such rapidity, that every endeavour to extinguish it was in vain. On the first alarm, his Honour the Governor hastened to the places in the greatest danger, where, amidst a scene of horror and confusion, he gave his orders, with the utmost coolness and precision, and every where animated the people with his presence and example. As the intense heat made it impossible to carry the engines near enough the fire to be of any use, he gave directions to blow up several houses, as the only means of stopping its progress; but every effort was in vain, for the wind brought showers of sparks and flakes from the burning houses on the hill, and scattered destruction on all sides. To the blowing up of those houses, however, that part of the town from Mr. Bennet's stone house to the end of the bay, as well as the Caranage, owed their preservation; the walls of Mr. Lamohé's house did also greatly contribute to saving of the latter. The preservation of that quarter of the town called Mountserrat, which fortunately lay to windward, was effected by pulling down several out-houses and fences. All the rest of the town was consumed, excepting Messrs. Richardson's, the Honourable Mr. Beatty's houses on the hill, the secretary's office, Mr. Kenny's house in St. John's street, the French church, and the priest's house.
We are credibly informed, that his Majesty's secretary at war has issued orders for the augmentation of the 60th regiment to 4 battalions, which are to serve in the West Indies. His Majesty's 6th regiment, now quartered in St. Vincent's, are under orders to proceed to North America early in the spring. The 48th regiment is to be sent to Great Britain; but the men fit for service in that corps will be draughted into the 6th, which is to be augmented with two companies. Captain-Lieutenant Edwards of the 6th is appointed a Captain, and Ensign Braddock of the same regiment a Lieutenant in one of those additional companies, and are under orders to repair to London as soon as possible, and to take with them a sufficient party for recruiting.
Nov. 25. The gale of wind which happened at St. Kitt's extended to the neighbouring islands, where its effects were also severely felt. At St. Eustatia, many buildings suffered considerably by the great sea that set in, and the heavy rains washing down the cliff; 48 sail of vessels, that were in the road when the gale began, put out to sea, excepting a sloop belonging to St. Vincent's, which was driven ashore, and totally lost; the others have since returned, except a snow, belonging to Amsterdam, and 2 small vessels, which were light, and are supposed to have foundered. At St. Martin's, 7 vessels were lost, and great damage was done on most of the leeward islands, particularly on those estates which are contiguous to the sea.
A similar disaster befel St. Domingo on the 28th of August, but infinitely more prejudicial in its consequences. About 20 vessels were driven ashore and totally lost, with the greatest part of their crews. The best cultivated and most populous district of the island, called the plain, was entirely laid waste; almost all their sugar works and other buildings being either unroofed or thrown down, their canes levelled or torn up by the roots, and almost all their ground provisions carried away by the floods.
A flag of truce from Martinico brings advice, that six battalions of infantry, consisting of about 4500 men, under convoy of several men of war of the line, lately arrived at that island; where, it is alleged, they are to do the duty of the militia, which are to be abolished.
CAMBRIDGE, Dec. 14.
CAPTAIN Martindale, in one of our privateers, was lately decoyed near to one of the enemy's ships of war in the bay, and was unhappily taken and carried into Boston.
Capt. Manly has, within a few days past, taken another valuable prize, a sloop from Virginia, bound to Boston, loaded with corn and oats. She was fitted out and sent by Lord Dunmore.
Last Friday night seven American masters of vessels, who had, at different times, been taken by the enemy, and carried into Boston, made their escape from that place. From one of them we have obtained the following intelligence, viz. That all the drugs and medicines in the town had been seized for the use of the army; that on the 14th instant General Howe issued orders for taking down the old north meeting-house, and 100 old wood dwelling-houses, and other buildings, to make use of for fuel; that vessels are fitting out for the West Indies, in order to get supplies for the garrison; that Capt. Martindale, mentioned above, with his officers and men, were sent to England; that one Morrison, who officiates as a presbyterian minister, being appointed fearther of those people who were permitted to leave the town, promised, on receiving a bribe, to let a person bring out 2401. sterling in cash and plate, but afterwards basely deprived him of the whole of it; that recruiting parties out of each regiment are gone to England; that 2 regiments, and a number of light-horse, under convoy of a frigate, were embarked for Halifax; and that there were not in the town provisions sufficient to supply the navy, and army, for a longer time than six weeks.
It was yesterday reported, that the above 2 regiments, &c. were failed for Rhode Island.
Yesterday an express from Marblehead brought advice that three men of war were seen off that harbour, and it was apprehended an attack would be made upon the town. Col. Glover's regiment with a company of artillery were immediately ordered to the place. A good fortification was lately erected at the entrance of the harbour, with 20 pieces of cannon.
Since our last 5000 of the brave sons of New England (3000 of this colony, and 2000 from New Hampshire) have joined the continental army under the command of his Excellency General Washington.
WATERTOWN, Dec. 14.
A SLOOP with 19 head of cattle, bound from Nova Scotia for Boston, and a brig laden with tory furniture, from Boston for Halifax, were taken to the eastward about 12 days since.
Last Saturday night the continental troops entrenched at Litchmore's point, opposite to West Boston; and, the weather being very thick and foggy, the enemy did not discover them till yesterday afternoon, when they discharged about 40 or 50 cannon and bombs, which we hear slightly wounded one man.
PROVIDENCE, December 16.
YESTERDAY Mr. Philip Palmer arrived here from Quebec, by way of Lake Champlain. He was taken in a fishing vessel the 5th of October last, by the sloop General Gage, on her passage from Boston to Quebec, which place he left the 21st of November, and was at Col. Arnold's head quarters, seven leagues from the city, on the 23d. The Colonel with his detachment has been within musket shot of the walls, taken 4 prisoners, and killed 2 men in a barge belonging to the Lizard frigate. He was fired on from the walls, and had 2 men wounded, one of whom is since dead. He was waiting to be reinforced by General Montgomery, and expected soon to be in possession of the place. Thirteen sail of vessels from Montreal had fallen into the hands of General Montgomery, having on board 1500 suits of clothes, 150 chests of arms, 900 barrels of pork, 700 barrels of flour, but they had thrown overboard large quantities of powder before they surrendered. The Gaipee brig and a snow escaped, on board one of which General Carleton got to Quebec disguised, with about 40 regulars. Before Mr. Palmer left the city, 147 recruits had arrived from Newfoundland, 40 marines had been landed from the Lizard, with her guns, and it was expected Carleton would muster about 500 men to defend the place; but the Canadians in general refused to take up arms.
NEW YORK, December 26.
BY accounts received from Boston last week, they are in great want of almost every thing, no fresh meat to be had; what fresh fish is brought in, must be sold to the soldiers first, and the inhabitants not allowed to touch any till the soldiers are supplied; no wood or coal to be had for money; many houses are already pulled down for fuel; and it is supposed, that all the wooden buildings that are not improved will undergo the same fate before the spring; flour very scarce, the price 40s. sterling per Cwt. no roots, except a few potatoes for the soldiers.
On Monday last Capt. Lacey, of the sloop Betsey, belonging to this port, arrived here from Cape Henlopen. On the 7th instant, he sailed from this for Newbern, North Carolina; but on the 12th being in sight of Cape Henlopen, George Buchanan, his Mate, James Herdman, James Henderson, and Peter M'Callum, his mariners, rose upon him and took possession of the sloop, obliging him to go on board the sloop's boat, when they put him ashore about ten or twelve miles to the southward of Cape Henlopen, and immediately returned and went off with the sloop.
December 28. We are credibly informed, that the people of the Massachusetts Bay have completed 13,000 suits of soldiers clothes entirely of their own wool, flax, and a manufactory, since the battle of Lexington.
We are informed, by a Gentleman who left the camp at Cambridge on Tuesday week, that a party of the continental army, who had entrenched at Litchmore's point, were observed by a frigate of 20 guns, that was lying within musket shot of them, who soon began a heavy cannonading on them, which our people immediately returned with interest, and fired 3 shot through her quarter, and 2 into her stern, which damaged the rigging considerably, and occasioned her to move her station.
By a vessel from the West Indies, arrived at Providence, we learn that a proclamation from St. James's was lately published at the island of Barbados, forbidding the inhabitants of that island holding any correspondence with the united colonies, on pain of being deemed rebels and traitors. Similar proclamations, it was expected, would be published in all the English West India islands.
Yesterday came to town two of the Gentlemen mentioned under the Cambridge head, who relate the following further particulars, viz. that the ministerial army was supposed to consist of about 6000 effective men; that they were greatly distressed, especially since the storeship was taken by Captain Manly, which had much dispirited them; that fuel and provisions of all sorts were exceedingly scarce, the army being at an allowance of four pounds of pork, and two loaves of bread, per week, each man; that 30 men from each company were ordered with saws and axes to cut up the wharves, meeting-house, &c. for fuel; that there were seldom any fresh provisions to be had, and that sold, in sterling money, at the following prices, viz. beef per pound 1s. 6d. a sheep 5l. a geese 20s. salt butter 2s. 6d. rum by the hoghead 12s. and other things in proportion; that our battery at Litchmore's point is within about half a mile of Boston, and will, when finished, command a very considerable part of the town.
A letter dated November 21, from Col. Arnold's camp at Point aux Trembles, eight leagues from Quebec, mentions, that their little army, consisting of about 600, are in good health and high spirits, waiting the arrival of General Montgomery, to attack Quebec, which they expect will soon be forced to surrender, though their forces consisted of about 2000 men, viz. from St. John's 150, Col. M'Lean's irregulars 170, marines and seamen from several armed vessels 450, French and English inhabitants 130, ditto compelled to bear arms 700, neutrals in the town 400. Col. Arnold twice sent an officer with a flag, but he was fired upon both times. He had good intelligence that the inhabitants in general, were averse to taking up arms against us, and were very short of provision. General Carleton got into Quebec the 20th of November, on which there was great rejoicing by his party.
We hear that a number of the inhabitants of Queen's county, on Long Island, who have received arms, ammunition, bounty, &c. from the very humane Capt. Vandeput, for the pious purpose of murdering their own countrymen, have received orders from General Howe, to march to Virginia to the assistance of Lord Dunmore, they being looked upon as actually in the King's service. Several of the most respectable, it is said, are to be complimented with commissions in his Lordship's Ethiopian battalion, now raising there.
Extract of a letter from Capt. Nichola Mole, dated Nov. 13, 1775.
"There is very great preparation making in this quarter to receive a number of French troops; lodgings are engaged for officers, barracks are building and fitting to receive the men at Cape Francois as well as here. I have it from the best authority here, who say, it is kept a profound secret at home, but a severe blow is to be struck by them and the Spaniards, who are to act together."
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 21.
ADVISES from Cambridge of the 11th instant are, that all the stores taken out of the Ordnance ship had been brought safe to the camp, and diffused a general animation through the whole army. That near three hundred more of the poor inhabitants were lately sent out, and with them several play bills, directed under cover to Generals Washington and Lee, Mr. Hancock, and others, signifying that the tragedy of Zara would be acted on the Friday following. That a body of militia men from New Hamp-

shire and Massachusetts were to march into camp about the 12th inst. to supply the places of the Connecticut troops, whose term of service was expired—That the work on Cobble Hill, called Purnam's fort, is the strongest in the whole camp, the breastwork is sixteen feet thick at top; from the bottom of the ditch to the top of the parapet fifteen feet, well frized—That Captain Coit, in an armed Schooner of the united colonies, lately chased a transport within a mile of the Light House, in Boston bay, when the crew cut all her rigging and took to their boat; upon which Coit boarded her, but finding he could not carry her off, he set her on fire and got on board his Schooner; by this time a forty gun ship, which was stationed near the Light-house, had got to near him as to make the grape shot whistle about his ears, but the stopping to extinguish the fire, Coit hoisted all sail and made off; she chased him about four hours, but finding it in vain, at length put about and stood back—That accounts had been received, which were credited in the camp, of the arrival of a Sloop, supposed to be the Mazarini of Connecticut and a French ship in company, to the eastward of Cambridge, with powder; the former said to have twenty tons, and the latter forty on board. A confirmation of which was impatiently expected when these advices came away.
By a letter from New York we learn, that the Phoenix man of war is moored off that place in the east river, between the ferry near the Fly-market and that on Long Island, supposed for the winter; and that several vessels, lately arrived there from the West Indies, are in charge of the men of war.
Capt. Price, from Bristol, in the beginning of October spoke a brig, from Cork, for the Grenades, the master of which informed him, that twelve sail of transports had failed from Cork for Boston some time in September; that two or three days after a vessel was despatched with orders for them to go to Halifax, but she returned without seeing them; and that five more transports afterwards failed from Cork to Halifax.
By a Gentleman arrived here on Wednesday last from Wilmington, in North Carolina, we are informed, that the Scorpion Sloop of war, and a transport ship from Boston, arrived at Brunswick, fifteen miles below, about the 12th ult. It was imagined their intention was to carry away the guns belonging to Fort Johnson. At the same time arrived a ship from the Isle of Sky, in Scotland, with a number of (report 4 or 500) Highlanders, all young men, no women on board; that they were supposed to be soldiers, being all dressed in the Highland manner, and it was said, some officers in the same dress were on board the ship; upon this information coming to Wilmington, the inhabitants were called upon, and cheerfully agreed to take all necessary measures to prevent their landing, for which purpose they had determined upon laying some booms and chains across the channel, and were about erecting a fort at Hangman's Point, where a camp was marked out, and 400 men immediately took post there.
We are informed that the Cruiser Sloop of war was at Brunswick; that Lord William Campbell was on board the Tamar, cruising to the southward as far as Charles-town bar; that two small tenders were on the station off Ocracoke, and the Kingfisher, Capt. Montague, was stationed between Ocracoke and Cape Henry in Virginia.
By a letter from South Carolina, dated Newbern, November 23, we are informed, that the Governor had sent word he intends to dine at the palace at Christmas, and to have the town in ashes before night. We have 4000 men raised in the province; they are thought equal to any of the King's troops. Next Friday the minute-men and soldiers go out to meet 500 men that are coming to take post here, where they are to remain till the rest of the soldiers come back. The Governor has got 300 soldiers to assist him; it is expected they have burnt down one small place called Brunswick, that had 8 or 9 houses in it.
A writer in the Bristol gazette of September 21, directed to the magistrates of that city, says, "As you intended addressing our most gracious Sovereign to deign to hearken to the distresses of his subjects, I beg leave to inform you, that in the compass of my small acquaintance, I know two worthy tradesmen who have been obliged to turn off several hundred people in this city and environs, who are now unemployed, and in the greatest distress, entirely owing to a stop being put to the American trade."
Extract of a letter from CAMBRIDGE, December 15.
"The small pox is in every part of Boston. The soldiers there who have never had it are under inoculation and considered as a security against any attack by the provincials. A third ship load of inhabitants is come out to Point Shirley. It is thought almost impossible to keep the smallpox out of the camp and country adjacent; but every precaution is taken which prudence can suggest."
Extract of a letter from CAMBRIDGE, December 13, 1775.
"I have the satisfaction to tell you, things wear a better complexion here than they have done for some time past:—The army is filling up:—The barracks go on well;—firewood comes in:—The soldiers are made comfortable and easy:—Our privateers meet with success in bringing in vessels that were going to the relief of Boston, which town is in great distress; besides wanting almost every necessary, they are inoculating for the smallpox, and the dysentery and black jaundice prevails, which makes the officers uneasy.—No troops are yet arrived from Ireland.—The three men of war which appeared off Marblehead, are since gone off without doing any damage."
Extract of a letter from GRENADA, dated November 6, 1775.
"About four o'clock in the morning, on the 1st instant, a fire broke out in the upper part of the Carenage; in less than six hours every house on the bay, three or four excepted, were burnt to the ground. The wind blowing towards the bay, I had only time to secure one barrel of bread, out of fifty or sixty that had been landed and afterwards rolled down to the surf, and three or four kegs, before we had like to have been burnt. It was with great difficulty we were able to get from the shore; at last the sparks came so thick on board the vessel, that I was obliged to slip one cable, heave up the other, and shift our birth."
In CONGRESS, December 30, 1775.
Resolved, that as the importation of any unilaterally necessary commodity, and the exportation of our produce to purchase the same, must give a proportionably greater opportunity to our enemies of making depredations on the property of the inhabitants of these colonies, and occasionally distressing them, by intercepting such commodities, it is earnestly recommended to the several Assemblies or Conventions immediately to promote, by sufficient public encouragement, the making of SALT in their respective colonies.
Published by order of the Congress.
CHARLES THOMSON, Sec'y.
Colony of MASSACHUSETTS BAY.
In the House of Representatives, Nov. 10, 1775.
WHEREAS, by a law of this colony, made in the present session of the General Court, entitled, "An act for encouraging the fixing out of armed vessels to defend the sea coasts of America, and for erecting a court to try and condemn all vessels that shall be found infringing the same," it is provided, that all vessels which shall be brought into this colony, and proved to be the property of, or any ways employed by, the enemies of the United American Colonies, or for supplying the said enemies, shall, with their appurtenances and cargoes, be deemed forfeited, and disposed of as by said act is ordered and directed; and no provision being therein made for captors not legally commissioned therefor, who in certain cases ought to meet with all necessary encouragement,
Resolved, that when and so often as it shall appear to the judge of any court by said act provided, that any vessel or vessels, which
shall be by such court condemned, have been taken by any inhabitants of the United American Colonies, within thirty leagues of the American shore, in that case it shall be lawful, and such judge is hereby authorized and directed to award to the captors the amount of what such vessel or vessels, with their cargoes and appurtenances, shall produce, after deducting the charges of trial and condemnation, and also the sheriff's fees for sale at private auction, in the same manner as would have been done had such captors been commissioned with letters of marque, and reprisal by any of the colonies aforesaid.
Sent up for concurrence.
WILLIAM COOPER, Speaker, Pro. Tem. In Council, November 11, 1775.
Read and concurred.
PEREZ MORTON, D. Sec'y.
WILLIAMSBURG, Jan. 13.
THE brig from Cork, taken by Capt. Barron last week, was bound for Boston, loaded with pork, potatoes, eggs, wine, porter, cheese, and dried beef, and is supposed to be worth 5000l. sterling.
Certain intelligence is received, that Mr. Matthews and Mr. Robinson, lately made prisoners by Lord Dunmore in the county of Princess Anne, and sent off to Boston, are fortunately retaken by the famous Capt. Manly of the Lee privateer. A letter of his Lordship's was at the same time intercepted, wherein he requests General Howe to send him cash to the amount of 5000l. sterling, and about 3000 men, promising to furnish the garrison there with fresh provisions, by plundering the inhabitants of this colony.
The following Gentlemen are chosen, by the Hon. the Convention, FIELD OFFICERS of seven more regiments that are immediately to be raised for the defence of this colony.
   Reg'ts. Colonels. Lieutenant Colonels. Majors.     3d. Hugh Mercer, George Weedon, Tho. Marshall.   4th. Adam Steven, Isaac Read, Robert Lawson.   5th. William Peachey, Wm. Crawford, Josiah Parker.   6th. Mordecai Buckner, Thomas Elliott, James Hendricks.   7th. Wm. Daingerfield, Alex. M'Clanahan, William Nelson.   8th. *Peter Mughlenburg, Abraham Bowman, P. Helvenstone.   9th. † Thomas Fleming, George Matthews, M. Donovan.  
*(or German regiment.) † To be raised upon the Eastern Shore, and stationed there.
LIEUTENANT BOYKIN, of the 1st regiment, would be glad to know whether a general court-martial is or is not the highest military tribunal he ought to be subject to? If it is, he would then be glad to be informed of the reasons that induced Col. Woodford to petition Col. Howe to order him from his company to appear before the Convention, after he had been regularly tried and acquitted by that court? If there be a judicial power superior to this, he wishes to have the law appointing it explained. He considers the ordinance under which the troops are raised, and by which he means at all times to govern himself as his only guide: By that he is taught to believe that a general court-martial is the last resort for officers.
Query, Was not Col. Woodford's petition similar to the conduct that raised the discontents now prevailing among the officers at Norfolk?
Lieutenant Boykin acknowledges the justice of the Convention, in admitting the authority of the general court-martial, but wishes he could have been heard before any censures were passed upon him.
A committee held for the county of Isle of Wight, on Thursday the 26th day of October, 1775, present, John Scarbrook Wills, chairman, and thirteen members: Mary Easson, of the said county (on a suspicion of her being privy to certain intelligence being conveyed to his Excellency Lord Dunmore, a charge exhibited against divers persons in this county by some person unknown) being summoned, appeared before the said committee, but refused to be sworn, or answer such questions as the committee might demand of her; and after behaving in a very insolent, scandalous, and indecent manner, departed without leave. It is therefore the opinion of this committee, that the said MARY EASSON holds principles inimical to the rights and liberties of North America, and ought to be considered as an enemy to her country, and that every person ought to break off all kinds of intercourse and connexion with her.
Resolved, that the clerk of the committee send a copy of the above to Messrs. John Dixon and William Hunter, and they are requested to insert the same in the Virginia Gazette.
By order of the committee.
FRANCIS YOUNG, Clerk.
As the PRINTERS are anxious to satisfy all demands against them, and to purchase a stock of printing paper, which at this time is very scarce, and cannot be had without cost, besides an infinite deal of trouble and expense in transporting it from Pennsylvania, they request those good customers who are in arrears to them for this gazette, books, stationery, &c. to discharge the same as soon as possible. Such of the subscribers as live at a considerable distance are desired to send the subscription money by the first safe opportunities that may offer.
Advertisements.
WILLIAMSBURG, Jan. 8, 1776.
ALL Persons who have any Demands against the Estate of Peyton Randolph, Esq; deceased, are desired to bring in their Accounts properly proved. Those indebted to the said Estate are requested to make immediate Payment to BETTY RANDOLPH, } Exec. JAMES COCKE, }
*** Those Gentlemen who have borrowed any Books of the late Speaker are desired to return them immediately.
THE SLOOP CHRISTIAN, Burthen about 3500 Bushels, will sail for the West Indies in three Weeks, from Hampton. Passengers will apply on Board said Vessel, or to Archibald and James Gowan, } 2
ELIZABETH CITY County, Jan. 9, 1776.
I INTEND to leave the Colony soon. GEORGE GRAHAM.
TO BE SOLD, on Thursday the 18th Instant (January) on twelve Months Credit, a LOT in the Town of Petersburg, on which is an exceeding good Dwelling-House two Story high, well calculated for a Tavern, or for a large Family. The Sale will be made on the Premises. (2)
TO BE RENTED
FOR A YEAR, OR TERM OF YEARS, THE well-accustomed TAVERN on the Road from Hanover Courthouse to Hanover Town. The Conveniencies of this Place, for either a public or private Family, are very great, the Dwelling-House having six Rooms below Stairs, and two above, a Kitchen, Dairy, Meat-House, Quarter, Blacksmith's Shop, a very large Barn and Stable, with every other Necessary for the immediate Reception of a Family. Any Person inclineable to rent the said Place may know the Terms by applying to the Subscriber, near the Premises. THOMAS SMITH.
ON MONDAY the 22d of this Instant
(January) pursuant to the last Will and Testament of Mr. Francis Smith, deceased, of Hanover County, will be sold on the Premises, one TRACT OF LAND containing 1072 Acres, lying in the County of Louisa. The Fertility of the Soil, for Corn, Wheat, and Tobacco, is so well known as makes a Description unnecessary. Its Situation to Church, Courthouse, and Mill, is entirely convenient. There is a considerable Quantity of Wheat sowed on the Plantation, which is under good Enclosures; and there are on the said Plantation, an Overseer's House, a Quarter, and all necessary Outhouses for Cropping.—At the same Time and Place will be sold the Stock of HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, and HOGS, the Crop of CORN and WHEAT, together with a Variety of PLANTATION UTENSILS.
And on MONDAY the 29th of January will be sold on the said Deceased's Plantation, in Hanover County, thirty CHOICE VIRGINIA BORN SLAVES, amongst which are several valuable Tradesmen and House Servants; the HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE; also the Stock of HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, and HOGS, with the Crop of CORN, OATS, and WHEAT; a large Quantity of PINE, CHERRY, BLACK WALNUT, and BIRCH PLANK, together with all Kinds of PLANTATION UTENSILS, and sundry other Articles too tedious to mention.—At the same Time and Place will be sold a TRACT of LAND in King William County, containing 108 Acres, well timbered, and within four Miles of Hanover Town.
Twelve Months Credit will be allowed the Purchasers for all Sums above forty Shillings, on giving Bond and Security, to carry Interest from the Date if not punctually paid.
THOMAS SMITH, Executor.
All Persons who have any Demands against the Estate are desired to bring in their Accounts, properly authenticated; and those in Arrears are most earnestly requested to make Payment as soon as possible, or give Bond for their respective Balances.
THE SHIP ROCKINGHAM, Richard Hopper Master, now lying in Nansemond River, will sail for Glasgow the first Week in February. She goes in Ballast, and will be exceedingly well fitted for Passengers. For Passage, apply to the Master on Board said Ship, to Gibson, Donaldson, and Hamilton, in Suffolk, or to Dixon & Hunter.—The Ship Rockingham is a new Vessel, and well found.
TO BE SOLD
Before ROBERT NICOLSON's Store, on Tuesday the 16th Instant,
A GREAT Variety of Cabinet-Makers Tools, Mahogany, Walnut, and Pine Plank, likewise new Walnut Book-Cases, Desks, Tables, &c. belonging to the Estate of Mr. Peter Scott, deceased. Six Months Credit will be allowed for all Sums above 5l. the Purchasers giving Bond with good Security.—All Persons indebted to the said Estate, by Bond or open Account, are requested to pay off as soon as possible; and those to whom the Estate are indebted are desired to call and receive Payment, from
ALEXANDER CRAIG, } Executors. ROBERT NICOLSON, }
TO BE SOLD
To the highest Bidder, on Tuesday the 16th Instant (January) at the Plantation where Mr. PRICE STANUP, deceased, formerly lived, on York River, in James City County,
FOUR CHOICE VIRGINIA BORN NEGROES, about 150 BARRELS of INDIAN CORN, and all the Crop of WHEAT and FODDER. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed the Purchasers for all Sums above 40s. on giving Bond, with approved Security, to
JOSEPH HORNSBY, Administrator.
All Persons indebted to the said Estate are desired to make immediate Payment, and those who have Accounts against the same are requested to bring them in at the Day of Sale, properly proved.
TO BE SOLD,
On Thursday the first Day of February, at the Town of MANCHESTER, commonly called the Rocky Ridge,
ABOUT one Hundred VIRGINIA born NEGROES, amongst whom are some female House Servants, a Carpenter, and a Shoemaker. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed, and Bond, with good Security, required of the Purchasers. (2) DAVID MEADE.
HANOVER Town, Dec. 17, 1775.
I INTEND to leave the Colony for a short Time, on a Journey to South Carolina. All Persons indebted to me at present are desired to pay the same to Leighton Wood, Jun. whom I have authorised to give sufficient Discharges. Gentlemen and Ladies may be supplied with all Sorts of Cabinet Work at my Shop in this Town, which will be left under the Direction of Mr. George Brown. THOMAS ARBUTHNOT.
To be rented, and entered on immediately,
THE TAVERN at Aylett's Warehouses, in King William. The very public Situation of this Place, the great Resort of Company to it, and the Advantages of boarding a Number of Merchants, are so well known, that a particular Description is unnecessary. The Terms may be known by applying to Mr. Benjamin Temple near the Premises, Mr. Robert Pollard at my Store at Aylett's, or the Subscriber in Williamsburg, who has for Sale, in the said City, a Quantity of best superfine, common, middling, and Ship-Bread FLOUR; also about 20 Barrels of TAR, and an elegant Assortment of Ladies black, white, and green Satin CARDINALS and BONNETS.
WILLIAM AYLETT.
LANCASTER County, Dec. 30, 1775.
RUN away from the Subscriber, about the 20th of last Month, a Negro Man named SOLOMON, about 30 Years of Age, 5 Feet 7 or 8 Inches high; had on when he went away, a Virginia Cloth Waistcoat and Breeches, an Os-naburg Shirt, new Shoes and Stockings. He is a remarkable black Negro, with his Ears cut, which is very perceivable. I have some Reason to believe he is lurking about Mr. Charles Carter's Plantation on James River, as he has endeavoured to pass through Middlesex as one of his Workmen. Any Person that will apprehend and deliver the said Negro to me, on the eastern Branch of Coreteman River, shall have 40s Reward if taken in this Colony, and if in any other 5l.
JAMES KIRK, Junior.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a LARGE BRINDLED BULL with a white Face and white Belly, marked with two smooth Crops. Posted, and appraised to 36s.
DAVID IRVINE.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, two SOWS, one white, the other of a sandy Colour, marked with an Underkeel and Overkeel in the right Ear. Posted, and appraised to 25s. MARTIN GINLAY.

POETS CORNER.
THE PATRIOT'S PRAYER.
PARENT of all, Omnipotent in heaven, and earth below, Through all creation's bounds, unspent, Whole streams of goodness flow, Teach me to know from whence I rose, And unto what design'd;
ON FREEDOM.
FREEDOM's charms alike engage Blooming youth and hoary age. Time itself can ne'er destroy Freedom's pure and lasting joy; Love and friendship never gave Half their blessings to the slave;
ON FRIENDSHIP.
FRIENDSHIP is the joy of reason, Dearer yet than that of love; Love but lasts a transient season, Friendship makes the bliss above. Who would lose the sacred pleasure Felt when soul with soul unites!
FAVOURITISM: A FRAGMENT.
FAVOURITISM is, in itself, an insuperable objection to the power of which it is the basis, being the most odious title any person can have to be a Minister in any country; witness the late disgraced favourites of France, Spain, and Denmark. So far is it from making up for other precautions, that it would alone destroy the best.
The following LETTER was wrote by a Lady in PHILADELPHIA, to an officer in the ministerial army in BOSTON, a few days after the battle at LEXINGTON.
SIR,
WE received a letter from you, wherein you let Mr. — know that you had wrote after the battle of Lexington, particularly to me, knowing my martial spirit, that I would delight to read the exploits of heroes: Surely, my friend, you must mean the New England heroes, as they alone performed exploits worthy fame, while the regulars, vastly superior in numbers, were obliged to retreat with a rapidity unequalled, except by the French at the battle of Minden.
All ranks of men among us are in arms, nothing is heard now in our streets but the trumpet and drum, and the universal cry is, AMERICANS! TO ARMS! We have five regiments in the city and county of Philadelphia, complete in arms and uniform, and very expert in their military manoeuvres.
several companies of artillery, and some excellent brass cannon and field-pieces. Add to this, that every county in Pennsylvania, and the Delaware government, can send 2000 men to the field.
Heaven seems to smile on us, for in the memory of man never were known such quantities of flax, and sheep without number. We are making powder fast, and do not want for ammunition. In short, we want for nothing but ships of war to defend us, which we could procure by making alliances;
INVOICE of STORES on board the NANCY store ship, Robert Hunter master, taken by the Schooner LEE, Capt. MANLY, in the service of the United Colonies.
Laden on board the Nancy store ship, Mr. John Wilkinson contractor, and Robert Hunter master, the undermentioned particulars, to be by them transported to Boston, in North America (the danger of the seas excepted) and there delivered to John Grant, Esq; commissary and paymaster to the train of artillery in North America, being in farther part of Col. Cleveland's demand.
MUSKETS, with bayonets, scabbards, and steel rammer, 2000. Cartridge boxes, with belts and frogs, 2000. Tanned leather slings, 2000.
Flints: Wallpiece 250, in one keg; musket, 100,000, in fifty kegs; carbine, 5000, in two kegs.
Forge bellows, one pair; hand bellows, double blasted, three pairs.
Budge barrels, copper hooped, fifteen. Kit brushes, six. Fifty hand barrows, and fifty wheel barrows.
Callipers, one pair of brass, one pair of iron ditto, and 100 yards of canvas. Chalk, four hundred weight. Spare travelling carriages, twelve pounders, heavy, 11.
Empty paper cartridges, twelve pounders, 10,000; six ditto, 5000; four ditto, 2500; three ditto, 3000.
Flags: Union, small, one; Ordnance jack, two.
Pincers for drawing fuzes, six pairs; common ditto, twelve.
Funnels of plate, ten; ditto, for shells, copper of forts, six.
Hammers for vents, 50. Park picquets, shod, 25. Handerow levers, six feet, 25.
Harneys, horse, thills with cart saddles, 80; bit halters, 100; traces, 20; wanties, 80.
Harneys, men's, twelve to a set, 200. Tanned hides, fifteen.
Laboratory kettle, one.
Copper ladles without flaves, 24 pounders, seven; 12 ditto, seventeen; 6 ditto, ten; 3 ditto, two. Iron melting ladles, twelve. Muscovy lanthorns, thirteen; tin ditto, ten; dark ditto, fifteen.
Marline, twenty skeins tarred, and ten white.
Beads, 5000 of one inch, and 5000 of one inch and a half. Spunge tacks, 5000. Nails, small copper, 2000; 4000 of streak, and 90,000 quarter rose.
Camp kettles fifty. Oil, one barrel of olive, and one of train. Cartridge paper, 12 pounders, sixty reams. Perpendiculars, new pattern, two; rafts, half round, twelve. Anvil, for smiths, one. White rope, coils, two of four inches and a half, one of three inches, and two of one and a half. Sheepskins 25 dozen. Sheets of tin for case shot, three boxes. Shot, musket 31 tons 500lb. buck 1200lb.
Spikes, eight inch, 10,000; seven inch ditto, 10,000. Spare spunge, and rammer heads: Ten of 24 pounders, fifteen of 12, thirty of 6, and six of 3. Twenty five pair of scissors. Three pair of brass scales; weights from four lb. to a quarter of an ounce, three piles. Staves, spare, for ladles, &c. 100. Thread 200 weight. Twine 100 weight.
Round shot, twelve pounders, 3000; six pounders, 4000. Junk, ten tons. Mortar beds, for land service, three of thirteen inches, four of ten, and four of eight.
Ammunition waggons, seven. Carbines, with bayonets, scabbards, and steel rammer, seventy five; carbine cartridge boxes, with belts and frogs, seventy five. Tanned leather slings seventy five. Handspikes, 100. Camp kettles, with frying-pan covers, 100.
LABORATORY STORES.
Carcasses, round, thirteen inches, 50; oblong, eight inches, 100.
Shot fixed to wood bottoms: Round, 24 pounders, 160; 12 pounders, 1080; 6 pounders, 2720; 3 pounders, 96. — Case: 24 pounders, 72; 12 pounders, 1280; 6 pounders, 1416; 3 pounders, 96. Eight inch howitz, 30; five and a half inch ditto, 100.
Empty flannel cartridges: Heavy, 24 pounders, 1500; 12 pounders, 2000; light, 6 pounders, 5800.
Fixed fuzes, four and two fifths, 3440. Empty shells: Thirteen inches, 100; ten ditto, 100; eight ditto, 50; five and a half, 100. Tin tubes fixed, six pounders, light, 16,000. Bottoms of wood for mortars, thirteen inches, 100. Iron round shot, one pounders, 20,000.
Covers of cured paper: 24 pounders, 1050; 12 pounders, 3600; 6 pounders, 2800. Caps of cartridge paper: Twenty four pounders, 1050; twelve pounders, 3600; six pounders in a case, 2800.
Mealed powder, two barrels. Portfires, long and small, 100 dozen. Empty flannel cartridges, 12 pounders, light, 1500.
Board's order, 11th of August, 1775. One brass mortar of 13 inches, with a complete mortar bed. To be delivered to Capt. Stehelin.
Board's order, August 9, 1775. Watchcoats, thirty two; two reams of musket rolls, one do. pay lists, and one dozen of the articles of war.
Office of Ordnance, Sept. 1, 1775. For Mr. DURNFORD. B. BLIGHT. P. S. Two brass six pounders on board the brig.
Published by order of Congress, CHARLES THOMSON, Sec'y. PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 12, 1775.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
STRAYED from the 2d Regiment, when on its March through Surry, a handsome BAY GELDING about 14 Hands high, with a thin hanging Mane and Switch Tail, the Brand (if any) unknown. A Reward of forty Shillings will be given to any Person who delivers him to Mr. Joseph Preston in Williamsburg, Mr. David Meade in Prince George, or the Subscriber in Norfolk.
R. K. MEADE.
AUGUSTA, November 20, 1775.
ALL Persons having Claims against the Estate of Mr. Francis Kirtley, deceased, are desired to bring them in by the last Day of March next, properly proved, or they will not be allowed by
FRANCIS KIRTLEY, Executor.
TAKEN up, in Halifax, a BRIGHT BAY HORSE about 9 or 10 Years old, 4 Feet 6 or 7 Inches high, with a small Star in his Forehead, had on a small Bell, and branded on the right Buttock HF in a Piece. Posted, and appraised to 81.
DAVID HUDELSTON.
TAKEN up, in Halifax, a GRAY HORSE about 8 Years old, about 4 Feet 6 Inches high, both hind Feet white, a small Bell on, paces and trots, and branded on the near Buttock R I, but so dull that it is hardly perceptible. Posted, and appraised to 81.
CHARLES WILSON.
FOR SALE,
THE noted and well accustomed TAVERN in James City County, about 15 Miles from Williamsburg, on the main Road from said City to New Kent Courthouse, Ruffin's Ferry, and the Brickhouse Ferry, with about 500 Acres of LAND in good Order for Cropping, having six Fields under good Fences. It is as fine a Place for a Merchant as any in the Colony, being within five Miles of several Landings on York and Chickahominy Rivers. Any Person inclined to purchase may be shown the Land, and know the terms (which will be made easy) by applying to the Subscriber, on the Premises.
THOMAS DONCASTLE.
Monsieur LAFONG, HAIR-DRESSER, &c. AND BARBER GENERAL!
IN Order to carry on the Business more extensively, has taken a Partner, and returns his Customers his most sincere Thanks for past Favours, requesting those in Arrears will pay him as soon as possible. From Mr. Alexander Wiley's great Abilities in Hair-Dressing, and the general Satisfaction which Monsieur Lafong flatters himself to have given hitherto, they have the greatest hopes of Encouragement from the Ladies and Gentlemen of this City, for whose Approbation the greatest Pains will be taken, and the utmost punctuality observed, by
The Public's most obedient
And most devoted humble Servants, LAFONG & WILEY.
They will engage Customers only quarterly.
Forty Shillings Reward.
RUN away from the Subscriber, some Time in August last, SAWNEY, a likely Virginia born Negro Man Slave about 18 Years of Age, 5 Feet 6 or 7 Inches high, rather inclined to be knock-kneed, is remarkably sensible, fluent of Speech, and very insinuating. The Season being warm, he carried but few Clothes with him. All I can recollect are, a red and white striped Jacket, with some Osnaburg Shirts, and a Pair of Breeches of the same Kind. I bought him, not long since, of Mr. Holt Richejon of King William, where I believe he has many Relations and Acquaintances, and am engaged to think he is harboured by some of them. Whoever will deliver him to me, or secure him that I get him again, shall have the above from
Wm. DANDRIDGE, Jun. HENRICO, Dec. 22, 1775.
AMHERST, December 10, 1775.
We intend to leave the Colony in a short Time.
JOHN M'KINDLAY. PATRICK HART.
AT Marlborough Iron Works, in Frederick County, in the Colony of Virginia, is immediately wanted a sufficient Number of Hands to cut 5000 Cords of Wood. The Cash will be paid for any Part of the above Quantity that may be contracted for, as soon as complied with.
ISAAC ZANE.
JUST: COME TO HAND,
And to be SOLD by the Subscriber, at the Store lately occupied by Mr. TURNER, a large Assortment of GOODS, consisting chiefly of the following, viz.
BROADCLOTHS, Shalloons, Dorsetteens, Durants, Velverets, Shags, Serge-Denims, Chair and Curtain Lace; Thread, Worsted, and Silk Breeches and Waistcoat Patterns; Silk Lasting, Armozeens, India Perians, Lorettoes, Macaronies, Burdets, Tobines, Floridas, Taffetas, Bombazeens, Crapes, India Dimity, dark and light grounded Cottons and Callicoes, Lawn, Lawn and Gauze Handkerchiefs and Aprons, Satin Cardinals and Bonnets, striped and figured Gauze, Parisnet, Cagut, worked Mullin and Patent Aprons, a Variety of Minionet and Blond Lace, Fans, Ribands, Necklaces, Gloves, Table-Cloths, Russia Drab, Stockings, Worsted and Cotton Caps, Rappce Snuff, handsome painted Table Covers, Mahogany Coffee Chests, Minute and Hour Glasses, Hoes, Axes, Iron and Brass Nails, Desk and Drawer Furniture, Whips of all Sorts, Window Glass, Paints, Garden Seeds, Millinery, Jewellery, Cutlery, Tinnery, and Braiery, Pewter, Copper, Iron, Glass, China, and Earthen Ware, &c. &c. The Terms on which the above were purchased render it absolutely necessary that I should sell for CASH ONLY.
WILLIAM PITT.
W A N T E D,
A WET NURSE, of good Character, without a Child. Inquire of the Printers.
TO BE SOLD
Under a Power of Attorney from Mr. JOHN BAYLOR, ABOUT 1000 Acres of Land in the county of Orange, to be laid off on the upper Part of a Tract whereon John Hawkins lives. The Land in general is very good, and contains a considerable Quantity of valuable low Ground. The Terms may be known by applying to Mr. James Newman, near the Premises, or to the Subscriber, in the County of Caroline.
EDMUND PENDLETON, Jun.
N. B. I am also empowered to receive and pay Mr. Baylor's Debts, but I am apprehensive it will not be in my Power to do either, and therefore hope his Creditors will not be impatient or uneasy.
YORK TOWN, September 19, 1775.
RUN away from Col. Philip Rootes, of King and Queen, a Negro Man named HARRY, who was some Years ago mortgaged to the Hon. William Nelson. It is with good Reason suspected that he is lurking about West Point, and that he is harboured by some of Col. Thomas Moore's Negroes. Whoever secures and delivers the said Negro, either to Col. Rootes or to one of us, shall receive 40s. Reward.
THE EXECUTORS.