The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1775-07-08 00:00:00

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On PERSECUTION.
HERE is no right of which men are more tenacious than that of judging for themselves; and indeed there is none to which they can with greater justice pretend. For every man being born free, and accountable for the use of those talents with which he is entrusted, is certainly obliged to make the best use of them, and to judge for himself in all matters that concern him. This being the case, and all ready to acknowledge this truth, as far as it concerns themselves, how happens it that we find men in general not willing to allow others the same liberty which they take?
It arises from pride and ambition to rule the minds of others. Vanity is so great an ingredient in most of our natures, that men cannot bear to think themselves capable of being deceived; they therefore count all in the wrong who differ from them, and obliged to submit to their dictates. This is the foundation of persecution; and till they reflect how liable they are to be mistaken, they will remain persecutors, and always be justly chargeable with pride and ambition, however they may boast of their humility and other virtues. The means too they use to convince (supposing them in the right) are such as humanity forbids, and are not productive of the end proposed. For had they a tender feeling for the infirmities of their fellow creatures, and did they compassionate as they pretend, their miserable condition, in being under the dominion of ignorance and error, they would not use those means which their own sense would tell them could not free them from, but would only add to their misery. Can any man of reason seriously pretend to affirm, that fines, imprisonment, torture, and the fear of death, can pour conviction on the human mind? No, that will yield its assent to nothing but what is truth, or at least has the appearance of it. Or, will the unhappy victims of persecution ever think that cause the better which cannot trust to the strength of its arguments, but is forced to call in the assistance of methods which are never used but when reason fails. It may perhaps be urged, that there are some who, though they are convinced, are so obstinate they will not own their conviction. But let us inquire who gave permission to use any other means to bring men to the acknowledgment of the truth than those of reason and fair argument; and whether this would not be encouraging the most powerful party (however absurd their opinions might be) to persecute all who happened to differ from them? We should abstain from all appearance of evil, and be careful not to give countenance to any thing, if possible, which may be perverted to the hurt of others. Besides, others are not accountable to us for the thoughts and intentions of their hearts; for their actions only we have a right to judge them. To their Maker they are accountable for their inward behaviour, who is the only proper judge of that. Till we can see all the springs of thought, intention, and action in the human heart, it is the highest presumption in us to pretend to judge of it.
If we say we are actuated by a zeal for the cause of God, and cannot bear those doctrines, which appear to us repugnant to his honour and glory, should be propagated; here the question recurs, will persecution effect conviction? And here we assume the prerogative of Heaven, we snatch the bolt of vengeance from the all-wise and unerring Ruler, and dare to throw it ourselves.
Vain, presumptuous man! Is not he able to discern, and has not he power to punish? And dost thou think he will thus suffer thee to affront him, by invading his unalienable right? "Vengeance is mine, I will repay it, saith the Lord." Leave it to him to punish his enemies, nor think with thy finite, short sighted wisdom, to direct Omnipotence.
It is amazing to any one who considers true genuine christianity, how this could ever be perverted to the purposes of persecution. Its whole design, the spirit of its doctrines, and life of its authors, seem directly to discountenance it. Yet, if we read ecclesiastical history, we shall find that Christians have shed more blood by their mutual persecutions than their bitterest enemies; and this mostly in defence of doctrines not essential to salvation, many of which they could not explain, and which one half of them did not understand. How different the conduct of their master! He, though the son of God, a person of such dignity and importance, suffered all the contradiction of the enemies of his religion, and persevered in the design of their salvation, amidst the greatest unbelief, and wilful rejection of his gospel. Do his professed followers think his examples not worthy imitation, or that all the precepts of love, charity, and forbearance, which he gave them, deserve no regard? The punishment only in the gospel ordained for heretics (those pronounced so by the spirit of God, not the judgment of man) was to avoid their company, yet to be unwearied in endeavours to reclaim them; not to fine, imprison, torture, or bring them to the stake. Nor is it reasonable to suppose the Deity will punish any man for merely erroneous opinions, provided he has been careful and diligent to attain the knowledge of the truth. We all know, that without divine assistance we can believe nothing; except God disposes the mind for conviction, the greatest and most evident truths can make no impression on it. It is unjust to his wisdom and justice, to think that he would require any of his creatures to do that for which he has not given them ability.
He has given to all a sense of moral good and evil, a capacity to know and do his will, and for their improvement of the talents he has allotted them, he will call them to an account. If it appears that they have in any instance wilfully shut their eyes against the truth, for this doubtless they will be punished, though they will hardly reject it, except it opposes the gratification of their vices. — Upon the whole, it is absurd to suppose any man to hold damnable opinions, whose life and actions are conformable to the laws of God. None but a good tree can bring forth good fruit;
an uniform course of good actions cannot spring from bad principles.
From the LONDON PACKET.
"'Tis godlike good to save a falling King."
MARVELL's Poem.
THE tempest of politics is now so black and big with endless ruin, that I tremble for the burbling of the cloud! Hath M— no friends? Is every creature of the realm to partake of the bosom of advice, of truth and virtue, and be snatched by precepts and admonitions from ruin; and is he, whom the law hath made the governor of all, is he alone to be deceived, neglected, and abandoned? Hath he not the common advantages with his subjects of the private converse with his wife! Is she too so very blind to his future fortune and to his future fame, to let him go on hour by hour in error, and permit the foes of his country to surround his chambers? Hath she not the opportunity of all wives, when the night is still and the curtain is drawn, which shuts out the hurry and battle of the world; then hath she not the happy opportunity of pouring the most cordial words into his ear, which must be attentive at such a time, and to such an adviser? If she does not do this, I grieve, and I lament the fate of the personage.
It is said by you, Sir, that those who speak plainly and openly call themselves your best friends; but you believe them, you add again, to be your worst enemies. Amongst the rest I may be looked on as one foe; but remember, great Sir, you never had a poorer nor a truer subject in your realm; one, whose life he has devoted, and will ever devote for the public weal; one who never flattered like the brilliant stars that surround you; but one who dare stand in the gap when those stars hide their diminished heads, and shew himself the friend of his country, which is the strongest testimony of his being the friend of his King. Banish from your presence those flatterers, who are the scorpions of your peace and your fame, and will one day plant such a sting in your bosom as no antidote can relieve; fling them off, come forward like an Englishman, and save your country and America from a deluge of the ensanguined rivers of civil war.
LONDON, April 10.
AMERICAN affairs now engross all conversation at the tables of the great; and at a petit souper given some time ago by a noble Lord, not less celebrated for his political abilities than for his galantries and dissipation, the following question was put by his Lordship to a private Gentleman, whose reply carries more weight with it than all the long essays and florid speeches which have appeared in public upon the subject. Earl of —, "Well, Sir, what do you think of this d—d American business?" "Faith, my Lord, I think all long-winded reasonings upon the matter very absurd. Experience is the best schoolmaster in politics, as well as in arts. The King's grandfather, in the course of a long reign, had various and frequent occasions to raise extra supplies in the times of public difficulty and danger; and the Ministers understood the art of squeezing money from the people as well, or better than their successors, yet they never thought of double taxing America, already obliged to take all our manufactures at the high prices they bear, when loaded with home taxes on the first materials, excises on the necessaries of life for the poor manufacturer, and an extravagant profit to the luxurious chief manufacturer, who now lives better than many foreign Princes. The navigation act, my Lord, is a perpetual tax on America, and you have no right to any other."
Anecdote of the late Sir JOHN RUSHOUT.
AS Sir John was travelling once in his carriage from London to his seat at Northwich in Gloucestershire (his servant loitering behind) he was attacked and robbed by a single highwayman; when the servant came up, Sir John reprimanded him for his absence, and told him he had been robbed. The servant impatiently desired to know which road the robber took, adding, that he would instantly pursue and take him. Sir John told him, and away the man galloped; and on his return in a short time, Sir John asked him if he had taken the highwayman? "No, Sir John (says the servant) but I overtook him, and he robbed me too," which made Sir John very merry, as well then as often afterwards, when he recounted the adventure to his friends.
Two extraordinary funeral ANECDOTES.
A Gentleman of fortune was buried in London the other day, and his coffin placed upright by his Lady and daughter, who were habited in jewels, and their very best apparel; and the Gentleman was dressed in a suit of velvet, with diamond buckles and point ruffles, ready to go off in a cotillon at the sound of the last music.
Another Gentleman was buried the other day in a situation quite the reverse, being determined not to be disturbed; and therefore he had commanded in his will that his coffin should be deposited ten feet deep under ground, and a stone four times the size, and twice the thickness of all common grave stones, should be let down upon the coffin, and covered with earth. It is supposed that this mortuary jest was intended to puzzle all future antiquarians, who will marvel at the event when they discover the sunken stone, and attribute the depression thereof to an earthquake.
On PATIENCE.
AS the generality of evils may be attributed to impatience , the greatest good, most frequently flows from its excellent opposite patience . To enumerate all the advantages this virtue is productive of, would be too great, though agreeable, a task. It is this which completes the christian, forms the hero, supports the oppressed, encourages the distressed, animates the dejected, and steel man against the impetuous attacks of the devil, the world, and his own carnal lusts and appetites. Are we tempted to sin, patience will always opportunely check this prudent desire, and
bridle our inclinations. Are we injured, ridiculed, persecuted, patience , with a smile on her countenance, will bid us "be of good cheer." Even the black horrors of despair are suddenly dispersed, at the effulgence of this all-cheering virtue. When sickness, with all her gloomy attendants, has nailed us to a couch, if patience does but open the curtains, our hearts feel as light as a feather at her approach. Nay, we may boldly challenge the grim tyrant, death, to strike the fatal blow; patience will take off the sting, and we shall, with a placid smile, leave this vale of tears with these exprobratory words, "O death, where is thy sting?" It is patience which repels the attacks of our impetuous lusts and passions, and keeps them within that virtuous medium, which leads to happiness.
How astonishingly dreadful would be the mansions of infirmity, old age, poverty, and disease, if it was not for the friendly consolatory visits of this all-suffering virtue! Desperado has committed faults, he has been guilty of enormities; still it was in his power to retrieve his errors, and expiate his guilt: Patience would, in time, have brought him back to a due sense of his duty, and restored to him that tranquillity and quietude of mind which he enjoyed in his halcyon days of innocence; but he is deaf to her voice! Despair arms his hand, and he rushes into his Maker's presence, loaded with guilt; with this most aggravating circumstance, despair of God's mercy.
Enamorado , disappointed by the non performance of promises made by a false perjured fair, plunges a dagger in his own breast, without once reflecting that there are more in the world fairer and better than she. Whereas he ought certainly to esteem himself happy, that he is not yoked to a woman who could be guilty of the greatest infidelity. Had he consulted patience , he would have found her the best physician. His wounds would soon have been healed; and he would have easily forgotten the cause of all his woe. In short, so many and tragical are the events produced by impatience , that we may conclude, with the most indubitable certainty, that at least half the evils in this world are occasioned by her.
Observations on Lord CARMARTHEN's speech on the AMERICAN taxation scheme.
THIS noble Lord, who spoke some time ago in the House, is full of the fire of ingenuous youth; and when he has modeled the ideas of a lively imagination by further experience, he will be an ornament to his country in either House. He has said, that the Americans are our children; and how can they revolt against their parent? He says, that if they are not free in their present state, England is not free; because Manchester, and other considerable places, are not represented. So then, because some towns in England are not represented, America is to have no representative at all! They are our children; but when children ask for bread, we are not to give a stone. Is it because the natural resistance of things, and the various mutations of time, hinders our government, or any scheme of government, from being any more than a sort of approximation to the right, is it therefore that the colonies are to recede from it infinitely? When this child of ours wishes to assimilate to its parent, and to reflect with a true filial resemblance the beauteous countenance of British liberty; are we to turn to them the shameful parts of our constitution? Are we to give them our weakness for their strength; our opprobrium for their glory; and the slough of slavery, which we are not able to work off, to serve them for their freedom?
If this be the case, ask yourselves this question, will they be content in such a state of slavery? If not, look to the consequence. Reflect how you are to govern a people, who think they ought to be free, and think they are not. Your scheme yields no revenue; it yields nothing but discontent, disorder, disobedience; and such is the state of America, that after wading up to your eyes in blood you only end just where you began; that is, to tax where no revenue is to be found, to—my voice fails me; my inclination indeed carries me no further—all is confusion beyond it.
On POLITENESS, or GOOD BREEDING.
POLITENESS is not a solitary sun, it is a constellation of many virtues; all that is amiable in humanity is comprehended under that title: It rests its foundation upon religion, and has morality for its support. Omnipotent where it is perfect, it draws after it a whole world of admirers, and like the Orphean harp of old, produces an harmony which softens the most obdurate temper.
It is not every one who can join a good judgment to a good disposition, and yet politeness seems to require both. Of all the social duties it is by much the most comprehensive; it bears the most elegant appearance, and though it is a disgrace to be without it ourselves, it is with pleasure we behold it in others. The modes, if I may so say, of politeness, differ in different countries, but the substance is the same in all. From the mode, more than from the substance, have the French been stiled the best bred people. All the nations in Europe unite in paying them this compliment; yet nothing is more manifest than that they are indebted for this part of their character to a vulgar error.
Politeness is founded on a sense of propriety, both in thought and action, and has only a right to the title of good-breeding, when our conduct in both is conformable to that. It is not confined within the narrow circles of courts and drawing-rooms; it exists amid scenes of the rudest simplicity. The barbarous Highlander possessed of his mountain virtue, hospitality, is far better bred than the polished Parisian without it. Good-breeding is often to be found with humanity in a plaid and bonnet, and though in general it shines most distinguished among the titled sons of honour, yet sometimes by its absence it diminishes the lustre of the ducal coronet, and makes the blushing riband fade. I was sensibly led to these reflections from considering the reception which I lately met with in Scotland; it was open and hospitable: I must confess I never met with more generous treatment

any where. The only objection which I had to it was my being obliged to take a glass more than was agreeable. The custom of pressing their guests to drink is an error common to all half-refined people. It arises from a mistaken notion of civility, and is a sort of substantial courtesy, which descending from father to son, has from time immemorial been kept up in the family, and entailed upon strangers. Among the Welsh and Irish the same custom is universal. There too, as in Scotland, it is sacred and hereditary. Wherever it may take place it is an inconvenience, which good breeding only can remedy. Implicitly attached to the manners of their forefathers, in all those points which can gratify either their pleasure or their pride, they are steady to their national prejudices; fixed and deep rooted as their native rocks, they stand unshaken on their basis: To remove them must be a work of time: The firm foundation mocks all other power. Think you that the Scots are to be fashioned out of their manners? Alas! they know no fashions but their own—it is enough to make them drink, that their ancestors drank before them; but here let me not deviate from my subject, and while truth obliges me to speak thus unfavourable of the mode, let not prejudice impel me to detract from the substance of Caledonian manners. In the words of their best poet take my opinion of the people.
A nation form'd for long and beauty's charms, Zealous, yet modest, innocent, too free; Patient of toil, serene amidst alarms, Inflexible in faith, invincible in arms.
Two curious LETTERS of JAMES I.
Almost all our historians have represented James I. as a Prince who had no idea of economy, and never bestowed a thought on the regulation of his domestic expense: It will appear, however, that he not only reflected on his subjects, but also made repeated efforts towards a reformation in the abuses of the household.
A copy of a letter from his Majesty to the Lords, read at the Board, Nov. 21, 1617, touching the abatement of his Majesty's household charge.
My Lords, NO worldly thing is so precious as time: Ye know what task I gave you to work upon during my absence, and what time was limited unto you for the performance thereof. This same Chancellor of Scotland was wont to tell me, twenty four years ago, that my house could not be kept upon epigrams: Long discourses and fair tales will never repair my estate. Omnis virtus in actione consistit. Remember that I told you, the shoe must be made for the foot; and let that be the square of all your proceedings in the business. Abate superfluities in things, and multitudes of unnecessary officers, wherever they be placed; but for the household, wardrobe, and pensions, cut and carve as many as may agree with the possibility of my means. Exceed not your own rule of fifty thousand pounds for the household; if you can make it less, I will account it for good service; and that you may see I will not spare mine own person, I have sent with this bearer a note of the superfluous charges concerning my mouth, having had the happy opportunities of this messenger, in an errand so nearly concerning his place. In this I expect no answer, in word or writing, but only the real performance, for a beginning to relieve me out of my miseries. For now the ball is at your feet, and the world shall bear me witness, that I have put you fairly to it; and so, praying God to bless your labours, I bid you heartily farewell. Your own JAMES R.
This is no bad proof of James's courage, moderation, and good sense. The Lords of Council, however, having paid but little regard to his remonstrance, he sends them another still more peremptory, which in all probability had a proper effect.
My Lords, I RECEIVED from you, yesternight, the bluntest letter that, I think, ever King received from his Council. Ye write that the green cloth will do nothing, and ye offer me no advice. Why are ye counsellors, if ye offer no counsel? An ordinary messenger might have brought me such an answer. It is my pleasure that my charges be equally with my revenue, and it is just and necessary so to be. For this is a project must be made, and one of the main branches thereof is my house. This project is but to be offered unto you, and how it may be better laid, than to agree with my honour and contentment, ye are to advise upon, and then have my consent. If this cannot be performed without diminishing the number of tables,—diminished they must be; and if that cannot serve, two or three must be thrust into one. If the green cloth will not make a project for this, some other must do it: If ye cannot find them out, I must only remember two things; the time must no more be lost, and that there are twenty ways of abatement, besides the house, if they be well looked into: And so farewell. JAMES R.
From the LONDON GAZETTEER.
To the Right Honourable the EARL of SANDWICH.
My Lord, I HAVE waited a considerable time in expectation, either that some abler advocate for the living and the dead, would have exposed the fallacy of your late extraordinary harangue in the House of Lords, as it was printed in the public newspapers; or that a positive contradiction would have appeared from authority: I mean a solemn asseveration, that you never made use of such absurd terms, or related such an improbable particular instance, attended with such ludicrous circumstances, concerning the brave Sir Peter Warren, and the equally brave North-Americans: This latter expectation was rather reasonable in me, because, though I was admitted to the honour of being present at the memorable siege of Louisbourg in 1745, I cannot, in these times of inquisitorial secrecy, be admitted to the like honour at the assemblies of the British ages. I mean, in the House of Lords or Commons; and of course cannot depend upon what may be said to have passed there: The constituents of the Commons are rudely thrust out of the gallery of their own House, and as that celebrated botanist, philosopher, favourite, and Knight of the polar star, Sir John Hill, says, in the preface to his animadversions upon the royal society, "I have the honour not to be a member of either." But, my Lord, I was an eye witness to the siege in question, was much nearer than Sir Peter, at the time of, and assisted to cover the landing, which was heroically effected; and I do most absolutely deny your second-hand character and account given of the Americans, if it is yours, to be true: I was also frequently an ear-witness to the declarations of Sir Peter, which were always directly contrary to what he hath been lately made to relate; I therefore also sincerely believe, that part of the harangue in question, not to be true. You know, my good Lord, dead men tell no tales; it is well for some they cannot, or perhaps, if they could, in this refined and free-thinking age, they would not be believed, no, not even Moses and the Prophets, were they to arise.—Your Lordship will excuse the quotation; you was always extravagantly fond of the scriptures, at least I have been told so; and one tale, my good Lord, may be as true as another, you know; and yet, after all, your Lordship, far from declining so fallaciously, may never have even seen the ludicrous tale, you are represented to have so ludicrously embellished. You may, my Lord, be infinitely above reading of news-papers; nevertheless in justice to your Lordship, as well as the rest of the concerned, it once more makes its appearance, with a few remarks; and would your Lordship condescend so far, you might learn how injuriously to your honour, you have been libelled in the public prints.
"As to their prowess, (say you) I remember very well when I had the honour to be at the Board at which I now preside, I had the curiosity to inquire about the surprising feats said to be
performed by those people [the Americans] at the siege of Louisbourg, of the great naval officer who commanded on that expedition, as able and honest a seaman as ever lived (Sir Peter Warren) who told me very frankly, they were the greatest set of cowards and poltroons he ever knew; they were all bluster, noise and conquest, before they got in the presence of their enemies, but then they were good for nothing.—I remember a particular instance he told me, which from the ludicrous circumstances attending it, made a very deep impression on my mind. Soon after their landing, there was a battery, called the Island battery, which commanded the entrance of the harbour, Sir Peter having ordered them to attack it, they engaged to perform it; but what was the consequence?—They run away on the first fire.—And how did you manage? Did you employ them afterwards, or upbraid them with their cowardice, says I?—No, answered Sir Peter, neither would it have been prudent: I formed the marines and part of the ships crews into a body, to act on shore; and instead of upbraiding them, I told them they behaved like heroes; for, if I had acted otherwise, I should have never taken the town, as their presence and numbers were necessary to intimidate the besieged.
"Their numbers (meaning the Americans at large) and extent of country, both will unite more easy; for in the first place, it will be more difficult to assemble them, and when they are assembled, the more easy to defeat them. I would be better pleased, that the standing army should meet 200,000 of such a rabble, armed with old rusty firelocks, pistols, flaves, clubs, and broomsticks, than 20,000, as the war would sooner be at an end; and instead of five victories, one on our part would be equally decisive."
Sir Peter Warren, then a Commodore only, was as able and honest a seaman as ever stepped between the stem and stern of a ship. He might have been advised with; nay he certainly was, because the most perfect harmony subsisted between the land and sea officers; but he never ordered the land forces to attack any part of the fortifications, nor would they have engaged to perform such orders, if he had: The chief naval officer understood discipline much better, than to trench upon the province of General Pepperel, such orders must have bred ill blood. Can any man be thought to believe, that the General, or his brave volunteer irregulars, about 3800 in number, every one of whom belonged to America, nay almost to a man * New Englanders, would have suffered such treatment? Besides, would any mere naval officer, in his senses, have made himself unnecessarily responsible for consequences so hazardous? Lastly, and beyond all, who could have imagined that an English first Lord of the Admiralty would have espoused such a doctrine, and approved of such conduct?
The island battery stood upon a small rock almost inaccessible, about 20 yards broad, and 200 long, with a circular battery of 42 pounders, towards the neck of the harbour, in front, with a guardhouse and barracks behind. How could they, the Americans, run away, then, on the first fire? Or where to? Unless into the ocean; for the whaling and ship's boats were sunk, or obliged to draw off: As it was, they made a noble stand. One Brookes, an American officer, had nearly struck the flag of the fort, it was actually half down, when a French Swiss trooper clove his scull. Their courageous landing, their dragging of 18 pounders several miles over rocks, and through morasses, their drilling of 42 pounders left in the deserted grand battery, which had been spiked up by the French, and then conveying them round the northeast harbour to the light-house; the speedy and close approaches of the fascine batteries to the ramparts, and the general alertness of the successful besiegers, entitles them, surely, to more than a sneer; it justly entitles them to the appellation of HEROES: Could men, so circumstanced, exert themselves more? Do such a handful of undisciplined soldiers deserve the opprobrious epithets of cowards or poltroons?
The Admiral, it is true, blocked up the harbour effectually, and neglected nothing the power of an experienced and valiant naval officer, on sea or shore, to assist the land forces; but did any one besides your Lordship, ever hear him boast, that if he had acted otherwise, than by crouching and lying to cowards and poltroons, he should have never taken the town? Modesty is a constant attendant upon real merit; the Admiral would have modestly insisted, that the fleet blocked up the port, and did its duty, but that the army took the town.
You have been libelled, my Lord, or you have paid a poor compliment to the memory of Sir Peter Warren; neither have you done justice to the survivors upon that expedition: I bled in this business, my Lord; and, though an old Englishman, feel for the honour of the British empire in every quarter of the globe, I feel also my proportionate part of the ungenerous and degrading insult; but every defamation that gross falsehood and sheer ignorance can suggest, against our truly meritorious and much injured brethren of America, is now courtly, and of course fashionable.
How would your Lordship approve of it, to have the allies of your departed, your broken-hearted brother, Captain Montagu, commonly called Mad Montagu, raked up? Would you like to be reminded of his drunken skirmishes, his nightly window breakings, and his amorous encounters at Boston? I have been an eye witness to several such particular instances, and attended with ludicrous circumstances likewise, and cannot but remember, when one of those brave fellows, whom you are said to have stigmatized with the base character of cowards, poltroons, and rabble, Joe Pierrepont, a small sized man, of Roxbury, near Boston, nicknamed the Duke of Kingston, fairly fought with, and drubbed him within an inch of his life; I will go further, my Lord, than you perhaps have chosen to do, to your brother's credit it shall be recorded, that he regarded the man for the residue of his days.
I have done with your Lordship for the present, but not with the public: As the best refutation to such illiberal malice, I lately caused even Dr. Smollet to give testimony against it, and will in a few days make other apt quotations from other historical writers, written at a period when some late pernicious Tory doctrines, had not been broached, or if they had, would not have been countenanced, much less encouraged: I mean in the reign of King George II. under whom, as Sterne makes uncle Toby declare of King William III. I had the honour to serve, though I now am no more, than
AN OLD ENGLISH MERCHANT.
"Inhabitants of Massachusetts Bay, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island—3850 voluntary soldiers, principally substantial persons, and men of beneficial occupations—this brave, determined, though undisciplined band of soldiers, embarked from Boston on the 20th of March for Canso; and, pray for us, while we fight for you, was the valiant and endearing language wherewith they animated their desponding countrymen, on their departure from partial representation, &c. vol. 4. fol. 13.
† See Gazetteer, 30th March last.
LONDON, May 6.
By letters from Cadiz by the last packet we are informed, that 200 transports were fitting out there, manning with soldiers, to join the rest of the fleet from Carthagena.
It is certain, that the Spaniards are aiming for war. And it is certain, that our want of sailors is such, that even our guards are 50 men deficient in their complement.
The Spanish Ministry, on being questioned, on account of the late armaments, have declined, it is said, to give an explicit answer; and reply generally, that their master is resolved to suit his armaments, both by sea and land, according to the present posture of affairs in Europe.
A report was very current yesterday at Change, that Jamaica was surprised by the Spaniards.
We are assured that the first act of hostility in America will be begun by Government, as there are particular orders to secure the Delegates.
It may be depended on, that the Spaniards have at this time at Cadiz, Carthagena, and Barcelona, above 50 men of war ready for sea at a day's warning.
A report was current last night, that advice was yesterday received, that an armed vessel having been appointed to cruise off Cadiz, the Spanish Commander at that port sent out a man of war, which took the English vessel, and carried her into the Bay.
A Gentleman in the city has received a letter from Jamaica, which brings advice, that a Spanish man of war of 74 guns, commanded by Don Fernando, had taken an armed schooner and two merchant vessels belonging to Jamaica, and carried them into the Havannah. This account says, that Spanish men of war and frigates are continually making depredations on the English merchant ships in the West Indies, whom they plunder of what they think proper.
By the most authentic letters and narratives from America, we are told, that the colonies are preparing to resist force by force. What shall we get if the King's army conquer? Absolutely nothing. What shall we lose if the royal army be beaten? Every thing! What a wretched politician must he be who puts every thing to the hazard where nothing can be gained?
CHARLESTOWN, June 13.
ONE regiment of horse and two of foot, are immediately to be raised by order of the Provincial Congress; the militia will very shortly be on a most respectable footing; and such is the ardour for perfection in martial discipline, that many Gentlemen of the first consequence in this town, as well as the commonality, regularly turn out to drill both morning and evening; even the boys form themselves into companies, and are really expert in military manœuvres.
Married. —JOHN FRIERSON, Esq; to the amiable Miss POLLY WAINE DAVIS, eldest daughter of the Reverend William Davis, deceased, a young Lady of great merit.
June 20. On Saturday evening last, his Excellency the Right Honourable Lord William Campbell, Governor in Chief, &c. of this province, with his Lady and family, arrived here in the Scorpion man of war from England. His Lordship was saluted on his arrival by the Tamar man of war, by Fort Johnson, and the several forts in town; and about one o'clock the next day, his Lordship landed at Champney's wharf, where he was received by several Gentlemen, as also by the grenadier company under arms; the regiment of militia were likewise under arms; from the wharf his Lordship walked in procession, preceded by the grenadier company, to the State House, where his commission was read and published in the Council Chamber, in the presence of some of the members of his Majesty's Council, &c. from whence he returned in the same order to the Exchange, where it was again read; after which his Lordship and the whole company repaired to the State House, where a genteel entertainment was provided on the occasion.
The General Assembly of this province, which was to meet here yesterday, agreeably to the last adjournment, is prorogued by his Excellency the Governor, to Monday the tenth of July next, as per proclamation.
CAMBRIDGE, June 15.
WITHIN 2 or 3 days past, we are informed, 20 or 30 transports have arrived at Boston from England, with troops, military stores, horses, &c. as a reinforcement to Thomas Gage, in order to enable him to prosecute his rebellious designs of subverting the legal constitution of Government.
It is said the number of troops arrived at Boston, with those expected, amount to about 3 or 4000.
Saturday last came to town from Philadelphia, escorted from thence under guard to General Wooster at Hors Neck, Ensign Moland, lately taken prisoner by Col. Arnold, on Lake Champlain, as mentioned in a former paper.
By a letter from Albany, to a Gentleman in this town we are informed, that three Sachems had been at that place and declared their intentions of befriending the people of this country, in their military movements, provided they did not interfere with the safety of Col. Johnson and Capt. Close, whom they meant to defend, in duty to their father in-law, General Johnson. Said letter also mentions, that Col. Johnson with his family, 14 battoes, and 13 waggons, laden with goods and household furniture, were gone to Fort Sanwix; and that Col. Johnson had summoned the Indians far and near, to meet him in General Congress at Oswego.
NEW YORK, June 22.
Last Tuesday night, by a vessel in a short passage from New London, we have the following important intelligence, in a letter from a Gentleman at Norwich, to his friend in New York.
Sir, Norwich, June 19, 1775. I UNDERSTAND, by Mr. David Trumbull, that, by an express from Cambridge, his Honour our Governor has advice, that our people attempting to take possession of Bunker's hill and Dorchester Point, they were attacked by the regulars, shipping, &c. Five men of war, hauled up at Charlestown, covered the landing of a body of men, who drove our people from Bunker's hill; that three Colonels in our service were wounded, Col. Gardner mortally. How many are slain on either side is uncertain.
This happened on Saturday, about noon; at Charlestown, when the post came away, our people kept their ground, and made a stand. How they have fared at Dorchester we do not know. General Putnam was safe when the express came off. Preparations were making for a general attack. Col. Tyler must be on the march as soon as possible, without confusion. I shall procure teams as fast as I can, and have them to take in his baggage. Col. Jabez Huntington desires I would despatch an express immediately, to have the troops forwarded: He sent orders in writing yesterday."
The King has appointed Captain Henry Hamilton, late of the 15th regiment, to be Lieutenant Governor of Detroit, and Capt. Patrick Sinclair to be Lieutenant Governor of Michilimackinac.
Last Saturday arrived from North Carolina, the Lady and family of his Excellency Josiah Martin, Esq; Governor of that province; as also did Col. Edmund Fanning, Secretary to his Excellency Governor Tryon.
We hear that on Monday last the Connecticut forces in the neighbourhood of Greenwich, were received by General Wooster; they are an exceeding fine body of men, and performed their exercise and evolutions with spirit and exactness, much to the satisfaction of their officers, a great number of Gentlemen and Ladies, and a prodigious concourse of the inhabitants from that province, as well as from New York.
Extract of a letter from a Gentleman in CAROLINA, to his friend in NEW YORK.
"A vessel from Exeter brings advice, that the Algerines had declared war against Great Britain, and deprived the English Consul of his head. The express passed through Exeter just as the vessel was coming away."
Extract of a letter from ST. JOHN'S, NEW FOUNDLAND, May 30, 1775, to a friend in this city.
"Here we are starving for bread and flour, and no hopes of relief; and the ports in America being shut up, we are at a loss what to do."
The Cambridge Paper of June 15 contains another proclamation of General Gage's (too long for this paper) which is to the full, as curious, modest, and sensible, as any of his former ones.

He is extremely liberal to the Americans of epithets, which all people of common understandings, will think are justly applicable to himself and his followers; and that if the names only of the parties were reversed, there would have been a good deal of propriety in the proclamation.
He assures the Americans, that if they will prove traitors to their country, and submit to be slaves (by laying down their arms) they shall be pardoned, except Messrs. Samuel Adams and John Hancock.
Yesterday we hear, General Haldimand, who, it is reported, is re-called to England, arrived here from Boston, and is on board the Asia man of war lying in this harbour.
We hear that there are letters in town advising, that Guy Johnson having been suspected of endeavouring to stir up the Indians against the colonists, had incurred the resentment of the people near him, and that fearing the effects of it, he had retired into the Indian country.
PHILADELPHIA, June 22.
THE Hon. Congress have appointed George Washington, Esq; of Virginia, Generalissimo of the American forces.
Yesterday the three battalions, with the artillery, light horse, and ranges of this city and liberties, were reviewed by General Washington, attended by the Honourable the members of the Congress.
We hear the Schooner Bonaventure, Capt. Waterman, from this port for Nantucket, is taken by an armed ministerial plunderer, and carried to Boston.
Extract of a letter from LONDON, dated April 25, 1775.
"A steady friend to America called upon me this afternoon to acquaint me with the following intelligence, communicated to him by _____ this day, which you may rely upon as fact."
"_____ said, that Administration on Friday received advices from General Gage to the 18th of March, wherein he acknowledges the receipt of the King's orders to apprehend Messrs. Cushing, Adams, Hancock, &c. and send them over to England to be tried; but that the second orders, which were to hang them in Boston, he said the General had not then received. The General expressed his fears on the occasion and in hopes of their being reversed, he should delay the execution a while longer; because he must, if the orders were fulfilled, come to an engagement—the event of which, he had every reason to apprehend would be fatal to himself and the King's troops, as the Massachusetts Government had at least 15,000 men ready trained for the onset, and besides, had every public and private road occupied by the militia, so as to prevent his marching into the country, and which were at the same time ready to facilitate any attempts against the army; in which unwelcome situation he earnestly wished for a reinforcement, if that disagreeable order must be effected.—The General also wrote, that the standard was hoisted by the people at Salem, and multitudes flocked to it, which would not be the case, should the Royal standard be erected.—_____ added, that he now believed America would carry their point,—that many of the Administration were of the same mind, and sincerely wished they had pursued more gentle measures with the colonies. He said Lord North was evidently uneasy,—and that Government dreaded the news by the April packet,—That they supposed this intelligence from General Gage, because of the instant effect it would have on the stocks. He acknowledged the nation was ready for a revolution, if any enterprising genius would step forth,—and which would certainly be the case, if blood was once drawn in America. He blames Hutchinson much,—and says, Administration charge him with duplicity,—in telling them, they ought to have been more active, and then they would have made the Massachusetts submit. To others, that Administration had gone much further than he had advised. Be this as it may, he added, that the King consults him, places a confidence in what he says, and has actually fixed a salary of 2000l. per annum for life, which had much chagrined some of the Administration, who ardently wished him given up as a sacrifice to both countries."
By an express which arrived here on Saturday evening we have the following account of a battle at Charlestown, on Saturday the 17th of June, inst.
ON Friday night, the 16th inst. 1500 of the provincials went to Bunker's Hill, in order to entrench there, and continued till Saturday, 10 o'clock, when 2000 regulars marched out of Boston, landed in Charlestown, and plundering it of all its valuable effects, set fire to it in ten different places at once; then dividing their army, part of it marched up in the front of the provincial entrenchment and began to attack the provincials at long shot; the other part of their army marched round the town of Charlestown under cover of the smoke occasioned by the fire of the town. The provincial centres discovered the regulars marching upon their left wing. Upon notice of this given by the centry to the Connecticut forces posted on that wing, Capt. Norton, of Ashford, with 400 of said forces, immediately repaired to, and pulled up a post and rail fence, and carrying the post rails to another fence, put them together for a breast-work. Capt. Norton gave orders to the men not to fire until the enemy were got within fifteen rods, and then not till the word was given. At the word's being given the enemy fell surprisingly; it was thought by spectators who stood at a distance that our men did great execution.
The action continued about two hours, when the regulars on the right wing were put into confusion and gave way; the Connecticut troops closely pursued them, and were on the point of pushing their bayonets, when orders were received from General Potteroy, for those who had been in action for two hours to fall back, and their places to be supplied by fresh troops. These orders being mistaken for a direction to retreat, our troops on the right wing began a general retreat, which was handed to the left, the principal place of action, where Captains Norton, Chester, Clark, and Putnam had forced the enemy to give way, and were before them for some considerable distance, and being warmly pursued the enemy, were, with difficulty persuaded to retire; but the right wing by mistaking the orders, having already retreated, the left, to avoid being encircled, were obliged to retreat also with the main body. They retreated with precipitation across the causeway to Winter's Hill, in which they were exposed to the fire of the enemy from their shipping and floating batteries. We sustained our principal loss in passing the causeway. The enemy pursued our troops to Winter's Hill, where the provincials being reinforced by General Putnam, renewed the battle with great spirit, repulsed the enemy with great slaughter, and pursued them till they got under cover of their cannon from the shipping. When the enemy returned to Bunker's Hill, and the provincials to Winter's Hill, where, after entrenching and erecting batteries, they, on Monday, began to fire upon the regulars on Bunker's Hill, and on the ships and floating batteries in the harbour, when the express came away. The number of provincials killed is between 40 and 70; 140 are wounded. Of the Connecticut troops, 16 were killed: No officer among them was either killed or wounded, except Lieutenant Grosvenor, who was wounded in the hand. A Colonel, or Lieutenant Colonel of the New Hampshire forces, is among the dead. It is also said that Dr. Warren is undoubtedly among the slain.
The provincials lost three iron 6 pounders, some entrenching tools, and a few knapsacks.
The number of regulars which first attacked the provincials on Bunker's Hill were not less than 2000. The number of the provincials was only 1500, who it is supposed would soon have gained a complete victory had it not been for the unhappy mistake already mentioned. The regulars were afterwards reinforced with 1000 men. It is uncertain how great a number of regulars
were killed or wounded, but it was supposed, by spectators who saw the whole action, that there could not be less than 4 or 500 killed. Mr. Gardner, who got out of Boston on Sunday evening, says, that there were 500 wounded men brought into that place the morning before he came out.
This account was taken from Capt. Elijah Hide, of Lebanon, who was a spectator on Winter's Hill, during the whole action.
Extract of a letter from EAST GREENWICH, June 15. "The recruits from Ireland have some of them arrived in Boston, and others daily arriving; so that it is apprehended they will all get into Boston in a few days. Some of the horie are landed. General Gage is building a number of flat-bottomed boats. It is supposed that his troops are to be transported in them, either to Cambridge or to Dorchester Neck, and that they soon will be warm work; and how the affair will terminate God only knows. The American army consists of about 16 or 17,000 men, posted partly at Cambridge, and partly at Roxbury. It is said they are in high spirits, and want to be in action."
This morning at 7 o'clock, it is said, General Washington will set out for Massachusetts Bay, in order to take the command of the American army, attended by Major Mifflin, one of his Aid de Camps, and General Lee, who is appointed third in command.
Last Tuesday evening Thomas Jefferson, Esq; arrived here from Virginia, to attend the Congress, agreeable to his election, in the room of the Hon. Peyton Randolph, Esq; He was attended by Dr. M c Clurg.
WILLIAMSBURG, July 8.
ON the 28th ult. printed hand-bills were published at Philadelphia, giving an account of a late engagement near Boston. We have not been able to procure a copy, but we have good authority to assure the public, that the following are the most material circumstances mentioned in the hand-bill:
"Three thousand regulars landed at Charlestown, set that place on fire, and immediately marched towards Bunker's hill. The provincial army soon being apprized of their approach, 1400 men posted themselves at the corner of a fence, upon the right or left of which the King's troops were obliged to pass, and when they came within about 15 rods, gave two brisk fires, which did wonderful execution. The provincials were immediately reinforced with 400 men, and under command of General Putnam, pursued the enemy, who retreated to an adjacent lane, where a very bloody engagement ensued, and was continuing when the express came away. It was imagined that the regulars lost 800 men at the fence, and in the whole 1000, besides about 60 officers. Only 160 of the provincials were killed."
The latest Philadelphia papers are not come to hand this week, as usual. The following is copied from a letter we received this morning, dated July 7.—"I have not a doubt but you will receive by post General Gage's proclamation of the 12th ult. and an account of an affair that happened on the 17th, near Charlestown, both which I received yesterday by a Gentleman from Annapolis. A private letter says, the provincials were routed, and retired with the loss of 1100 men, and that General Clinton, who commanded in the action, fell with 30 privates of the King's troops. Another letter says, that after the defeat of the provincials on the 17th, Charlestown was laid in ashes."
In the course of the week, several detached parties of volunteers arrived here from the counties of Hanover, Henrico, Sussex, Chesterfield, Caroline, and Cumberland; in all about 200.
The Fowey man of war returned to York a few days ago, and his Excellency the Governor is still on board.
Two carpenters from the Fowey were yesterday taken near the Capitol Landings, where they were cutting timber for the ship. They were brought to town in the evening, by a party of volunteers, and are greatly satisfied in being removed from so disagreeable a situation as theirs was on board the man of war.
Mr. JOHN BROWN, of this city, is appointed Clerk of Mecklenburg county, in the room of Mr. JOHN TABB, deceased.
NORFOLK, July 5. On Wednesday last the ship Johnson, belonging to Mr. Gildart of Liverpool, and loaded by Messrs. Astons, was spoke with at the capes, by some persons employed by the light-house company. She had come in the Sunday before, and went up the bay; but hearing that she would not be suffered to land any of her cargo, but might probably meet with a disagreeable reception, she had put about, and was then following the Magdalen armed schooner out to sea. The ship appeared very deep in the water, and the Captain of her said, there were great commotions in England, much greater than he had ever known in any time of war.
A brig lately loaded by Messrs. Gibson, Donaldson, and Hamilton, of Suffolk, with a large quantity of provisions, was lately seized by some of the tenders, and taken to Boston for the supply of the navy and army.
The Asia man of war of 64 guns, after having taken on board the remainder of the 26th regiment quartered at New York, lately failed for Boston.
From Princess Anne we hear, that on the eastern shore of that county lately drifted there several parts of a wreck, quantities of hay, a drummer's uniform, and some other military habits, which render it probable that one of the transports has been lost near that shore.
Col Skeen, Governor of Ticonderoga and Crown Point, owner of the schooner taken on late Champlain, whose son was there, and is now made prisoner in Connecticut, is still kept at Philadelphia upon his parole of honour, to keep within 3 miles of the city between Delaware and Schuylkill, and not to correspond with any person on political subjects. This Gentleman, as we are informed from Philadelphia, concealed the circumstance of his being an officer from the Captain with whom he came passenger. But a few days before they made the capes of Delaware they spoke a New-England vessel, who informed them of the taking of Ticonderoga. The Colonel instantly declared he would march with 5000 men from Canada, and retake it; and manifested such warmth on the occasion that the Captain of the ship discovered the quality of his passenger, and after reprimanding him for the imposition he had practised upon him, thought it prudent upon his arrival at Philadelphia to deliver him up. He had taken care, however, to destroy his despatches, and now finds how ineffectual is his commission to tamper with the members of the Congress, in the way that an immaculate Ministry procure the sanction of an immaculate Parliament.
PITTSYLVANIA, June 1, 1775.
AT a committee held at Pittsylvania courthouse on Wednesday the 22nd day of May, 1775, a complaint being made to this committee, that a certain John Pigg had violated the association, by drinking, and making use of in his family, the detestable East India TEA, and also that he the said Pigg had taken uncommon pains in order to defeat the intention of the said association, by explaining much against the measures adopted by the General Congress; upon which the said Pigg was summoned to appear before the committee to answer the said charge, which he absolutely refused to do, declaring to the person who gave him notice to attend, that his intentions was to do as he pleased, and that he should not pay any regard to the summons of the committee; whereupon it is the opinion of this committee, that the said Pigg ought to be looked upon as a traitor to his country, and inimical to American liberty. And its recommended to all people to break off all intercourse and connection with the said Pigg, until such time as he retracts himself in the good will and affection of all the good people of this country.
Ordered, that the Clerk of this committee do transmit the above proceedings to the different printers in Williamsburg, and beg they will publish the same in their papers.
WILLIAM P. MARTIN, CLK.
To the Rev. Mr. SHEILD.
SIR,
YOU must not be surprised to find me addressing you in this public manner. I am a stranger to your person and place of residence, and can think of no way more proper to apply to you in a case extremely interesting to myself. I understand that you are a native of this country, lately returned from England, in holy orders; that, upon your arrival here, in my absence from the colony, you declared, with much confidence, I had solicited, by letter, some person in Administration for a pecuniary appointment under Government; that, in return for such a favour, I had promised to exert myself to carry into execution the ministerial measures against the rights and liberties of America; and that you had seen a letter to this purpose, subscribed with my name.
A young Clergyman, who is just entering into public life, would, I 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. I now therefore call upon you to make good your charge, or to make a public atonement to me for the high insult you have offered my character.
I have been honoured, for more than thirty years, with the affection and confidence of the county I live in, as their first representative in General Assembly; and I have received from the representative body of my country the pleasing approbation of my public conduct, by their twice appointing me one of their Delegates at the General Continental Congress. You, Sir, have attempted to deprive me of this honour, and this confidence, and to load me with public contempt and infamy, which I most justly merit if your charge is true.
If, therefore, you refuse to comply with my reasonable demand, you may rest assured that I will take another method to vindicate myself from the infamous and invidious falsehood you have so industriously and boldly propagated against me.
I am, Sir,
Your humble servant,
RICHARD BLAND,
WANTED IMMEDIATELY,
A VESSEL capable of carrying 1500 Barrels, to Britain. Whoever can furnish such a one will please to signify the same to Mr. 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.
BLANDFORD, July 6, 1775.
THE Subscriber has a few CASKS of SHOES, about 30l. Sterling Worth each, imported last Fall, in the JEAN, Capt. RITCHIE, which he will dispose of at a low Advance for ready Money, or short Credit. (4) JOHN GREEN.
BLANDFORD, July 1, 1775.
I INTEND leaving the Colony for a few Months. The Store carried on here for Messrs. Dinwiddie, Crawfurd, and Co. Merchants, in Glasgow, will, in my Absence, be under the Direction of Messrs. Charles Duncan and John Ray, who are properly authorised to transact the same.
DAVID RUSSELL.
To be SOLD, at the late Dwelling-House of Alexander Lietch, deceased, on Monday the 31st of July, if fair, otherwise the next fair Day,
ALL the personal Estate of the said Deceased, consisting chiefly of HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE. Six Months Credit will be allowed for all Sums exceeding 25s. on giving Bond and Security.
MARGARET LIETCH, Adm.
PRINCE GEORGE, July 4, 1775.
SURRY COUNTY, July 4, 1775.
STOLEN from the Subscriber, in the Night of the 2d Instant, a small BAY HORSE about 6 Years old, is branded, but the Brand I have forgot, his Mane and Tail was cut some time ago, but now grown out pretty much; he paces and canters pretty well, but trots little or none. Whoever gives any Intelligence, so that I get him again, shall have 20s. Reward, and 20s. more on Conviction of the Thief.
PATIENCE INGRAM.
STOLEN, in the Night of the 24th of JUNE last, a sorrel HORSE five Years old, 4 Feet 8 Inches high, a Star in his Forehead, which is joined to a Snip on his Nose, a white Streak about an Inch in Width, hanging Mane, his Foretop, Ears, and Footlocks have been lately trimmed, has many white Hairs under the Saddle, a white Mark down the Hoof of one of his hind Feet, and paces slow. I will give 3l. to any Person who delivers said Horse to me, in the upper End of Hanover, and 5l. on Conviction of the Thief.
JOHN PHILIPS.

POETS CORNER.
On DEATH.
Pallida mors aequo pulsat pede pauperum tabernas Regumque turres. HOR. TREMENDOUS Death, how awful is thy sway!
Struck with these thoughts, I smote my breast, and said: "Since all must view the regions of the dead, Mount, O! my soul! o'er all terrestrial things,"
Description of a POLITE MEETING.
WITH honest heat each hearty bosom glows, A glass to friendship, and affection flows; Not rudely pert, nor indiscreetly gay, The cheerful guests their comic powers display;
In a few Days will be PUBLISHED, THE MANUAL EXERCISE, As ordered by his Majesty in the Year 1764, TOGETHER WITH EXPLANATIONS Of the Method generally practised at REVIEWS & FIELD-DAYS:
Firing by Sub Divisions and Grand Divisions, standing, advancing, and retreating. Wheeling by Companies. Advancing and retreating by Files. Forming the Oblong Square by Companies and Battalions. Forming Columns by Companies and Grand Divisions. Passing a Defile or Bridge by Half Companies, and re-passing in Retreat. Charge and Volley by Battalion. Some occasional Words of Command, with Explanations, &c. &c. To which is affixed, the Words of Command as they follow in Order in the Manual Exercise.
NORFOLK, June 26, 1775,
ALL Persons indebted to the late Concern of William Duncan & Company, Printers, are requested to make immediate Payment, for Stationary, and for the first Year's Gazette, to the Subscriber, who is properly empowered to receive the same. JOHN SCHAW.
JUNE 22, 1775.
RUN away from York Town, last Sunday Morning, an indentured Servant Man named JOHN O'BRIAN, alias JAMES BRENON, about 5 Feet 6 Inches high, by Trade a Tailor, and a very good Workman, was born in Dublin, has a remarkable long Head, short dark Hair, is slender made about the Arms and Body, can write very well, and I imagine will forge a Pais, but do not think he will go by either of his Names. He had on a brown mixed Coat, Nankeen Breeches, and a striped Waistcoat. Whoever will take him up, and deliver him to me, or secure him so that I get him again, shall have 5l. Reward. WILLIAM DAVIS.
For SALE, and very cheap, One Thousand Acres of exceeding valuable LAND,
lying in the upper End of Hanover County, on the main Road, in very good Order for Cropping, and improved with a commodious Dwelling-House, and all necessary Outhouses, fit for the Reception of a Gentleman in private or public Life. The Payment will be made easy to the Purchaser, and the Terms known by applying to me, on the Premises. DAVID CHISHOLM.
HANOVER, June 29, 1775.
The Subscriber intends for Great Britain immediately. JOHN HICKS.
MANCHESTER, June 24, 1775.
I SHALL leave this Colony soon: Those with whom I am connected, either as Debtor or Creditor, will oblige me by coming to a Settlement as quickly as they can. The Management of my Affairs will be left with Mr. Robert Donald of Bedford, who will move to this Place before I go away. JAMES DONALD.
COMMITTED to the Gaol of Henrico, a Negro Man, who says his Name is CHAFFEAT, about 24 Years of Age, 5 Feet 7 Inches high; he has on a white Negro Cotton Jacket and Breeches, and an Osnaburg Shirt. He says he belongs to one Hell, Hill, or Hillary Worham, but cannot tell the County his Master lives in, and speaks remarkably bad English. The Owner is desired to prove his Property, pay Charges, and take him away. MARY LINDSEY, Gaoler.
COMMITTED to the Gaol of Henrico, a Negro Woman, who says her Name is BETTY, about 4 Feet 10 Inches high; has on an Osnaburg Shift and Petticoat, has a Hole through each ear, appears to be outlandish, and cannot tell her Master's Name. The Owner is desired to prove his Property, pay Charges, and take her away. MARY LINDSEY, Gaoler.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, near the Green Springs, a BRIGHT BAY MARE about 4 Feet 7 Inches high, 9 or 10 Years old, branded on the near Buttock X, her hind Feet white, has a white Streak in her Forehead, and a hanging Mane and Switch Tail. Potted, and appraised to 16l. POUNCEY BUNCH.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, a SORREL HORSE about 4 Feet 8 Inches high, 9 or 10 Years old, paces, trots, and gallops, appears to have been much used, and branded on the near Buttock D, as near as I can make out. Potted, and appraised to 14l. THOMAS COLEMAN.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a BAY HORSE about 13 Hards high, 12 or 13 Years old, has two Glass Eyes, and three white Feet, some white Hairs on his Back, a white Face, branded on the near Shoulder S, and on the off Buttock with Something unintelligible. He has had a Fistula, and has now the Poll-Evil. Potted, and appraised to 7l. MICAJAH WILLIAMSON.
WHEREAS I purchased of Buckner Russell, of the County of Halifax, a Tract of Land lying in said County, which was measured to me for 1883 3/4 Acres, for the Consideration of 75l. 8s. current Money of Virginia, for the Payment of which Sum I, together with my Brother T. Carter, entered into Bonds payable to the said Buckner Russell some Time in May 1775 and May 1776; and whereas, since the said Purchase was made, and a Deed given and recorded, &c. the said Buckner Russell's Father hath made an Entry for Part of the aforesaid Purchase, as surplus or vacant Land, and I have reasons to believe that the Father and Son have juggled together to pocket my Money, and still possess the Land: I therefore forewarn all Persons from taking Assignments of the said Bonds, as I am determined not to pay them until the said Russell shall make me a secure Right and Title to the above-mentioned Land and Premises. WILLIAM CARTER.
For CHARTER to any Part of GREAT BRITAIN, or the WEST INDIES, The BRIGANTINE HERO, JAMES MAXWELL Master, Burthen 7500 Bushels of Grain, two Years old, a prime Sailer, and is now ready to take her Cargo on Board. For Terms apply to MARSDEN, MAXWELL, & Co. WHO HAVE FOR SALE,
WEST INDIA RUM, SUGAR, MOLASSES, CANE SPIRITS And MADEIRA WINE.
RUN away, on the 18th of April last, from the Subscriber, on Grassy Creek, in Granville County, North Carolina, a likely Virginia born Negro Man named BEN, about 28 Years of Age, and carried with him sundry Clothes, among which were a Jacket and Breeches of Country Cloth, double wove, of Cotton and Wool. As he is well acquainted in Nansemond County, Virginia, it is probable he may be gone there, or to Essex County, where he has a father and mother. Whoever will apprehend the said Negro, and bring him to me at the aforesaid Place, shall have 5l. Reward if taken 100 Miles from Home, and in Proportion for a larger or smaller distance. SAMUEL SMITH.
ALEXANDRIA, June 5, 1775.
EIGHT POUNDS REWARD. RUN away from the Subscriber, two indentured Servants named ROBERT SHAW and ANDREW INGLES, both Natives of Scotland, and Bakers by Trade. Each of them had on a Bearskin Jacket lined with Plaid, Osnaburg Trousers, old Shoes, and Half worn Castor Hats. Their Bundles consist, as it is supposed, of two Match Coat Blankets, two Pair of Leather Breeches, two Osnaburg Shirts, two Check Shirts, and two red Jackets. Shaw is about 5 Feet 10 Inches high, has a swarthy Complexion, dark short frized Hair, a long Scar on his right Arm, appears bold, and talks much. Ingles is about 5 Feet 5 Inches high, has short straight Hair, swarthy and long featured, has a Scab over his right Eye, his right Leg is sore, he is fond of Liquor, and talks more in his Country Dialect than Shaw. Thomas Walson, a Convict, about 27 Years of Age, a Barber by Trade, about 5 Feet 6 Inches high, has a Laddish down Look, brown straight Hair, a little knock-kneed, and a leering Look; had on, and took with him, two white Linen Shirts, an old Drab coloured Cloth Coat, one red and one striped Holland Jacket, one Pair of new Drilling Breeches, one Pair of old Buff coloured Stocking Breeches, one Pair of white and one Pair of white and blue spotted Stockings, a new Felt Hat bound with black Ferreting, has a black Silk Handkerchief, and some other Things which cannot be described. WILLIAM LEE, by Trade a Cooper, about 5 Feet 9 Inches high, marked with the Smallpox, has a remarkable large Nose, speaks thick, and is impudent; he took with him a yellow Bull-Dog, with cropped Ears, one Side of his Face white, has a Glass Eye, and white Breast and Neck, is very fond of going into the Water, and answers to the Name of Turk. The said Lee had a Variety of Clothes, which cannot well be described. Whoever takes up, and secures the said Servants, shall have the above Reward, or 40s. for each, paid by JAMES KIRK. ROBERT ADAM. GEORGE PURVIS.
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STRAYED, or STOLEN, from the Subscriber, in Essex County, a small ROAN HORSE about 13 1/2 Hands high, 6 Years old, trots and paces, has a Switch Tail, and lately had a Fistula, which is not quite well. Whoever delivers the said Horse to me, or gives me such Intelligence of him as will enable me to get him again, shall have 20s. Reward. JOHN WHITLOCK.
To be RENTED, for one or more Years. A VALUABLE FARM on James River, near the Mouth of Appomattox, in Goochland County, 26 Miles from Richmond, sufficient to employ ten Hands and six Horses to great Advantage. This Place is well known, and deservedly esteemed, both for Richness of Soil and useful Improvements in the Farming Way, consisting of proper Enclosures, Dwelling-Houses, Granaries, Stable, and Treading-Floor, together with a large Apple Orchard of late Fruit. My present Dwelling-House, Garden, Stable, Store, and other Outhouses, Peach and Cherry Orchards, with a good Still, being off the Farm, will be let as a Tavern, for which Purpose they are conveniently situate, and well calculated. For Terms apply to the Subscriber, on the Premises. THOMAS PLEASANTS.
HENRICO, May 30, 1775. RUN away, in February last, a likely well shaped black young Negro Fellow named EDM, about 18 Years of Age, has a Scar on one of his Elbows, occasioned by a Burn when a Child, one of his little Fingers is much bent in, has a pleasant Countenance, and is very artful and active. As I purchased him of Col. Philip Johnson some Years ago, he may probably be in that Neighbourhood. I will give 40s. to any Person that will bring him to me, about three Miles above Richmond Town. FORTUNATUS SYDNOR.
THE Subscriber being very desirous of getting out of Debt, without any Dependence on his ungrateful Debtors, proposes to sell the pleasant and healthy Seat of HUNTINGTOUR, near Appomattox River, in the lower End of Buckingham, with 1500 or 2000 Acres of good Land, which produces fine Tobacco, Hemp, Wheat, &c. The Houses are new, and the best I have seen in the country; a larger and better Garden I believe is not in the Colony, and on this Land are several Hundred Fruit Trees of the best Kind, many of which were brought by water to Richmond Town above 80 Miles. On this Tract of Land is a large Proportion of exceeding fine Meadow Land, with a Fish Pond within three Hundred Yards of the Dwelling-House, stored with various Kinds of fine Fish, sufficient for the Use of a Family the Year round. In this Neighbourhood is Plenty of excellent Venison. The Air is so pure that I never knew an Instance of any Person having the Ague and Fever at Huntingtour. I have travelled through the most Parts of Virginia, and I have not seen any Part that I would so willingly reside in as this Neighbourhood. If I sell this Place, I shall live on the Part of this Tract of Land which has been advertised for some Time past. I make no Doubt but Appomattox River will be soon cleared, and then Wheat will be carried as far as Col. Banister's Mill, near Petersburg, for 4d. or 5d. per Bushel. I made at this Place 100 Gallons of rich Wine in 1772, and last Year (if it had not been for the Frost) I could have made 5 or 600 Gallons, which Quantity I expect to make this Year. HUNTINGTOUR would be a pleasant and safe Place for a Gentleman of Fortune to retreat to in the Horrors of a civil War, or in the sickly Months of many Parts of the Lowlands. "What is Honour, Grandeur, and Wealth? All fleeting, Nothing's without Health!" I hope any Gentlemen inclined to purchase will visit the Premises this Summer. I will also sell, very cheap (that is, for about Half the Value) the Tract of rich LAND I have advertised in Albemarle for some Time past. ANTHONY WINSTON.
TO BE SOLD, To the highest Bidder, on the Premises, on TUESDAY the 1st of AUGUST next. ALL that valuable Tract of LAND late the Property of Matthew Branch, deceased, lying on James River, in the County of Chesterfield, containing about 500 Acres. One Half the Purchase Money to be paid on the Delivery of the Land, and the other Half twelve Months after. A good Title will be made by RIDLEY BRANCH, and MATTHEW BRANCH. WARWICK, May 29, 1775.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, in Blandford, on the 4th of March last, a dark bay Mare, 7 or 8 Years old, about 14 Hands high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, cat-hamm'd, paces naturally, has some Saddle Spots on the near Side, and branded WK, or WR, on the near Shoulder and Buttock. Also a small sorrel FILLY went away with her, two Years old this Spring, had a Snip on the right Nostril, but neither docked nor branded. They were seen on Rowanty, and are imagined to have gone towards Walker's Mill, on Nottoway, or Hick's Ford, on Meherrin. Whoever will bring the said Mares to me shall be handsomely rewarded for their Trouble. DAVID BLACK.
TO BE RENTED, A large Dwelling-House In RICHMOND TOWN, 40 Feet by 20, with two rooms below and two above, a Garden newly pailed in, a Kitchen, and all other Outhouses necessary for a Family. The Situation is as pleasant as any in Town. The Terms may be known by applying to the Printers hereof, or to the Subscriber, in said Town. GABRIEL GALT.
TO BE SOLD, THREE Thousand Acres of well timbered LAND, near Newmarket, in Caroline County, whereon are two Plantations in good Repair, with proper and convenient Edifices for farming or making of Tobacco. For Terms apply to the Subscriber. JOHN BAYLOR.
TO BE SOLD, A TRACT of LAND in Caroline County, contiguous to Mataponi, 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 of King William, Mr. John Armistead of Caroline, and Mr. John Baylor, Executors. (tf)
For SALE, and very CHEAP, THE Tract of LAND whereon I now live, in the lower End of Caroline County, that contains 470 Acres, and is known to be very good. The Improvements are, a new Dwelling-House 32 by 28 Feet, with three Dormants on a Side, two Fireplaces below, and one above, a good Cellar; the Kitchen 24 by 16 Feet, with all other Outhouses quite new, and the Plantation in fine Order for Cropping. Its Situation is equal to any Forest Place whatever. I will give Credit till next Christmas, when Possession may be had. LE ROY HIPKINS.