The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1775-11-17 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
ALWAYS FOR LIBERTY,
AND THE PUBLICK GOOD.
ALEXANDER PURDIE, PRINTER.
WILLIAMSBURG, Nov. 16, 1775.
IT being judged necessary that a GENERAL CONVENTION should be speedily held, I have thought fit, pursuant to the directions of the last Convention, to appoint Friday the first day of December for that purpose, when a full meeting of the delegates, at the town of Richmond, is earnestly desired by their
Most obedient servant,
RO. C. NICHOLAS.
MR. John Tazewell having signified to me his inability to continue signing the treasury notes, I have appointed Mr. William Norvell to succeed him in that business; and Mr. Matthew Davenport, who was appointed to fill up the notes, being by accident rendered incapable of prosecuting that work for the present, I have appointed Mr. William Russell in his stead.
RO. C. NICHOLAS, treasurer.
TREASURY OFFICE, October 27, 1775.
THE inspectors and other collectors are desired to remember that their accounts are to be settled by the 10th of November, and may be assured that no indulgences will be given.
ROBERT C. NICHOLAS, treasurer.
IN COMMITTEE, at WILLIAMSBURG, the 23d of October, 1775.
Ordered, THAT the commissary of musters in each district attend the battalion thereof only on the last day of their several meetings, to perform battalion duty.
(Extract)
JOHN PENDLETON, jun. clerk.
To Mr. PURDIE,
SIR,
IT is much to be lamented that no proper caution has been given to the negroes in this country not to be seduced from their duty to their masters, by the artifices of the treacherous and cruel tools of administration. If those poor fellows had been told, that the present dispute with the British ministry has no kind of relation to them; that the ministry are greater enemies to them than any of their masters are; that the Assembly has frequently endeavoured to put a stop to the importation of slaves, but that the king has been prevailed on, by the African company of merchants in England, to refuse his assent to such laws as had been passed here for that purpose; that they must be sensible the more slaves there are in this country the more tobacco, &c. would be made, which is what the merchants of England, and ministry, must wish for, since the tobacco trade carries an immense sum of money into their hands, and consequently they can never wish that the slaves should be set free: If they were told, that the ministry, so far from desiring to set them free, are endeavouring to enslave their masters; that, if the ministry should get the better of us, our estates must be forfeited, and, of consequence, that our negroes will be sold as
part of our estates, probably in the West Indies, where their condition will be ten times worse than it is now; if they were told (which is a truth) that lord Dunmore has been heard to wish that he had an excuse for cutting them all off; that, till his scheme of calling on them for assistance, he was cruel to his own, and was frequently heard to wish that there was not one negro in the country; if they were told what a risk they run of being hanged if taken, and of having their wives and children cut off by our riflemen from the back country, who never wish to see a negro, and who will pour out their vengeance upon them whenever it is desired; and lastly, if they were reminded of their duty, as enjoined by the apostles, Servants, obey your masters , and were taught the necessity of the different orders of men in this world, they would be contented with their situation, and expect a better condition in the next world, and not run a risk of being unhappy here and miserable hereafter. I am certain, if they had been told these things, not one slave would have joined our enemies; and the unhappy wretches would not have been killed at Hampton, and the two now in jail might have been happy at home.
Mr. PURDIE,
I REMEMBER seeing an account of capt. Cresap's rifle company shooting at a shingle that was held in one of the men's hands, and shot through by his brother. This was mentioned to be a very extraordinary thing, as indeed it was; but it is no more than what has been frequently done by the Virginia riflemen. I have known many people do it. At the distance of 200 yards, two men have shot into the same hole, in a paper not bigger than a dollar; and this Mr. S. Athawes of London can attest, for he saw it done when he was in Frederick county, Virginia, and carried home with him the paper, through which it was but just discernable that two balls had passed. The riflemen now in our regiments declare, that they can hit a man every shoot if within 250 yards, and his head if within 150. As some proof of this, I can mention what happened a little while ago on one of the creeks near Williamsburg. A man had got into a canoe, out of a boat, upon seeing the riflemen, and was paddling off, when they hailed him. On his refusing to stop, they fired ahead of him; and the man still continuing his flight (thinking that by this time he had got out of their reach, as he has since confessed) the officer ordered his people to fire at him, which three of them did, when one shot went through the canoe, another through the man's waistcoat, brushing a button on his breast, and the third through his hat, within half an inch of his head. And last summer our riflemen under col. Lewis gave convincing proofs that their dexterity in shooting was not confined to mere butts and marks, or harmless game, but could be applied with incredible truth when aimed at the bravest
and most formidable of all enemies; for in that engagement there were more Indians killed than there were of French and Indians in Braddock's defeat, and more than I ever heard were killed in any engagement during the last war. And although the Indians, according to their manner of fighting, never fire twice from the same tree, and can very seldom be seen in an engagement, and when seen discover but their head and breast, or shoulders, yet great numbers of them were killed and wounded, and it is said that all the dead were found shot through the head or breast. I wish that some abler pen was employed to celebrate the praises of our men in that engagement, and in major McDonald's. It would then be seen with how much justice they said in their glorious resolves, that they could march and shoot with any troops in the world.
WILLIAMSBURG,
MONDAY, Nov. 13. The tenders which came up to Jamestown the week before last, being hindered by our riflemen from burning the ferry-boats at that place, went down the river, and in the night destroyed the boats at Mulberry island, and at Hardy's, on the opposite shore; where there was no notice of their arrival, and consequently no opposition. And last Thursday, a large schooner, and two sloops, carrying small cannon and swivels, sailed up to Burrell's ferry, under convoy of the Kingfisher, capt. Montague; and coming to, in line of battle, abreast of the ferry-house, warehouse, and boats, hailed a small boat which lay at anchor about 300 yards from the shore, ordering her alongside of the man of war; but ten riflemen, who happened to be stationed near this place, marching up to the bank, as near as they could get to the boat, ordered the skipper to stay where he was. Upon this the man of war fired at the boat, to enforce her orders, which so frightened the skipper that he would willingly have obeyed; but the riflemen also firing, their superior metal prevailed. The man of war then sent off a barge to bring her off, which, as soon as within reach of our rifles, was so warmly saluted that she thought proper to row back with precipitation, having lost, as was thought, from their falling down, three men; upon which a smart cannonade ensued, but luckily did no other execution than sending a six pound ball through both sides of the warehouse, very near to some of our men, and several struck and buried in the bank under them. Soon after, the man of war made a second attempt to take the boat; but the rifle guard having received a reinforcement of ten men, it proved as ineffectual as the first, for the barge, on receiving a smart fire, was immediately called back to the ship. Thus, by the bravery of a mere handful of men, the ferry-boats have been preserved from destruction; and the boat in dispute still remains where it was, and where our people ordered it

should stay. These 20 brave men declare they want no assistance if even all the men on board the ship and tenders should attempt to land, provided they come on shore fairly before them, and not land at several places, too far above and below them at once.
Tuesday, Nov. 14. Last night, the man of war and tenders, leaving our men in possession of the boat, which they brought close into the shore, moved up to Jamestown, but made no attempt to land any of their men, and still keep out of the reach of our rifles. This day they received a reinforcement from Norfolk, in a tender which was sent down on Sunday night for that purpose; however, capt. Green, with some of his riflemen, and part of a minute company, are ready to receive them.
Wednesday, Nov. 15. Last night, a boat full of men attempted to land near the place where two rifle sentinels were placed by capt. Green, on the Jamestown beach, about half a mile below the captain and his men. The sentinels immediately challenged them, but received no answer, upon which they fired at the boat, then about 50 yards distance, and one of them ran off to capt. Green, to bring him to the place, finding that the boat returned their fire- and was pressing on them. The other sentinel loaded again and fired, the boat still rowing on till within 20 yards of the shore, when he discharged his rifle a third time, upon which he heard a terrible shrieking on board, and found that they tacked about and made off; so that, before capt. Green could come up, this brave fellow had repulsed a boat crowded with men.
Thursday, Nov. 16. This day serjeant Kelly was sent from the camp at Cobham with the account of the affair at Princess Anne. He crossed a little above where the man of war and tenders lay, who fired several shot at him, but he luckily got safe ashore with his despatches. This Kelly is a very brave soldier, and was the first man that boarded the tender taken at Hampton. — The man of war likewise fired a few shot at col. Travis's houses at Jamestown, one of which went through the kitchen chimney.
L O N D O N, August 21.
Wednesday a small ship from Bristol to America was stopped in the Bristol channel, on an information given that she was carrying out some warlike ammunition to the provincials, and on searching her there were found 30,000 muskets.
It is reported that the ministry were by no means unanimous about issuing the late royal proclamation; and it is the opinion of many, that healing measures will certainly take place before the meeting of parliament.
Yesterday several naval officers, who had been on half-pay ever since the last war, attended the admiralty board, were put into full, and ordered to repair immediately to their respective ships.
Yesterday sir Jeffery Amherst, generals Hervey and Haldimand (the latter has been in America 18 years) with lord North, went to his majesty at Kew, and stayed with him two hours in close conference.
His majesty has been pleased to promote William Tryon, esq; governor of the province of New York, to be a major in the first regiment of foot guards, from which appointment it cannot be supposed that gentleman will be honoured with any military command upon the American staff.
The forces intended to do duty in America early in the spring of 1776, exclusive of the officers, artillery, and marines, are to consist of 31 battalions of 12 companies each, 60 rank and file per company, making in the whole 22,320 rank and file.
There is so much secrecy in the expeditions intended, that a noble lord, at the head of the admiralty, writes all orders himself.
Yesterday 300 of the train of artillery, with their stores, tents, bedding, &c. embarked on board a transport ship for America. This is the second embarkation.
Letters from Paris advise, that orders are given there to fill all the magazines with the necessary provisions for 50,000 men.
The Sphynx, a snow, capt. Parks, from Ireland, with salt provisions for Bolton, is said to be lost in the passage, and all on board perished.
E D I N B U R G H, August 23. Extract of a letter from London, August 19.
FOR these three days past, it has been currently reported in town, that the plan of accommodation proposed by the Congress, and brought over by mr. Penn, was so agreeable to the ministry that orders had been issued for hostilities to cease, and that a reconciliation, upon a solid basis, was immediately to take place. This news, however, is premature; the plan has not even as yet been laid before the council. What gave rise to the report was, the gracious reception mr. Penn met with from his majesty, and the hopes entertained at court that the plan proposed will, in all probability, be the basis of a negotiation, which will speedily put an end to the present disputes between America and the mother country."
An agent of one of the regiments at London writes, that the troops intended for America are countermanded, but does not mention whether it is on account of the prospect of an accommodation, or agreeable to the former plan of the ministry, not to send over any more troops till the spring.
A gentleman just arrived in town, who left London on Thursday, says, that expresses were very frequent between lord North and the other people in power; that a private conference was held by them and mr. Penn, in presence of his majesty; and that it was the general opinion in London, that a reconciliation would be brought about.
August 30. The London gazette, brought by this post, contains his majesty's order in council, revoking all licenses which had been formerly granted for the transportation, coastwise, of any gunpowder, arms, or ammunition, in consequence of his majesty's order in council of the 5th of April last, as great fraud and collusion have been and may be practised in the shipping and exportation of such articles; which prohibition is to continue in force for the space of three months, from the 23d instant.
Extract of a letter from London, Aug. 22.
"Twenty one serjeants from the foot guards, sent out to recruit, are gone to Ireland; and as fast as they raise men they are to be forwarded immediately to America, to fill up the number wanted to complete those regiments which suffered most in the engagement there. They are gone alone with orders to make corporals themselves of the first men they enlist; five guineas bounty is now given, which is more than was ordered for raising men in all the last war.
"No less than three messengers were sent to his majesty, at Kew, this day, from the secretaries of states office.
"Several of the messengers from lord Dartmouth's office were out all Monday night, and it is supposed that the news from America will bring many in administration to attend the levee at St. James's to-morrow."
Extract of a letter from London, Aug. 22.
"We hear nothing farther of the petition brought over by mr. Penn, except that he has had another audience of the king, in company with the generals Am-
herst, Haldimand, &c. but nothing of this conference transpires. Whatever be the consequence of this petition, mr. Amherst's plan of operations is adopted, and will be carried on with vigour, if pacific measures do not take place. The plan is to have a strong body of forces in America, whose orders are to act with such caution as to leave nothing to hazard. By this means the provincials must be obliged to keep numerous forces in the field, a circumstance which will sooner distress them than any loss they can meet with in a field of action."
C A M B R I D G E, October 26.
O TWAY BYRD, esq; of Virginia, is appointed aid-de-camp to the hon. major-general Lee, in the absence of S. Griffin, esq.
Mr. John Gill, printer, mr. Peter Edes (son of mr. Benjamin Edes, printer) and mr. Starr, who have been, by the tyranny of Gage and his vile minions, confined in jail for several months past, were liberated a few days ago, on procuring bail for their not leaving the town. Mr. James Lovel still remains in prison.
N E W L O N D O N, October 27.
Extract of a letter from the captain of a vessel in Cape Nichola Mole, to his owner in this town, dated the 27th ult.
F OUR thousand troops arrived at Cape François the 21st instant from France, and 3000 more hourly expected at Port au Prince. The French are repairing all their fortresses throughout this island, and five to one is laid that there is a war with Great Britain before March next.
N E W Y O R K, November 6.
B Y letters from Philadelphia, dated last Thursday, we learn that a schooner was just arrived there from New Providence, the master of which reported, that a ship of war and two transports arrived at that island from Boston, and demanded all the cannon and warelike stores in the place, but was not permitted to take of any part of either of the articles; however, the soldiers, consisting of one company, were embarked and sailed.
Captain Robinson, in a ship from Jamaica for Bristol, was cast away, the 24th of September, on the Martiers; and out of five galleons, that sailed from Campeachy, four were dismasted, two of which put into Georgia, two more into South Carolina, and the fifth supposed to be lost. The captain of the Tamar frigate, took the powder and cash out of the galleons, on their arrival at Carolina; but the Spanish captains, in a few days after, took charge of the money themselves.
The 27th of last month arrived at Hartford, in Connecticut, 18 prisoners of the 16th regiment, taken by a party of the provincial army near St. John's.
The number of houses burnt on the 18th of October at Falmouth, in Casco Bay, by captain Mowett, amounts to 139 dwelling-houses, and 278 stores, without one single person of the inhabitants being hurt.
The following is what capt. Mowett sent the people of Falmouth, soon after his arrival before that town.
Canceaux, Falmouth, October 16, 1775.
A FTER so many premeditated attacks on the legal prerogative of the best of sovereigns, after the repeated instances you have experienced in Britain's long forbearance of the rod of correction, and the manifest and paternal extension of her hands to embrace again and again, have been regarded as vain and nugatory; and, in place of a dutiful and grateful return to your king and parent state, you have been guilty of the most unpardonable rebellion, supported by the ambition of a set of designing men, whose insidious views have cruelly imposed on the credulity of their fellow-creatures; and, at last, have brought the whole into the same dilemma, which leads me to feel, not a little, the woes of the

innocent of them in particular, on the present occasion, from my having it in orders to execute a just punishment on the town of Falmouth: In the name of which authority, I previously warn you to remove, without delay, the human species out of the said town; for which purpose I give you the time of two hours, at the period of which a red pendant will be hoisted at the main top-gallant-mast head, with a gun. But should your imprudence lead you to show the least resistance, you will in that case free me of that humanity so strongly pointed out in my orders, as well as in my inclination. I do also observe, that all those who did on a former occasion fly to the king's ship under my command for protection, that the same door is now open to receive them.
The officer who will deliver this letter I expect to return immediately, unmolested.
I am, &c. H. MOWETT.
In consequence of the barbarous proceedings of the enemy at Falmouth, vast numbers of men have been employed, for several days past, in fortifying the towns and harbours of Portsmouth, Newbury Port, Beverley, Salem, and Marblehead. We hope our southern brethren are also preparing for defence, as no mercy is to be expected from our savage enemies.
The officers of the 18th, or royal regiment of Ireland, after the men were draughted into other regiments, embarked lately at Boston, and sailed for England.
Nov. 6. An express, which arrived here on Wednesday from S. Carolina, informs, that the inhabitants of Charlestown have taken every measure necessary for their protection and defence, in case they should be attacked by any ships of war or troops; and that there are up the country more than 10,000 men, well armed, who are ready to come to their assistance upon the shortest notice; also, that the hon. William Drayton, esq; had reconciled a number of persons in the back parts, who, having been imposed upon by some artful incendiaries, had entertained unfavourable sentiments of the present opposition to the arbitrary proceedings of administration.
PHILADELPHIA, November 4.
BY an express arrived from the eastward, we have the following intelligence: That fort Chamblee surrendered to major Brown, of the Massachusetts Bay, who commanded the party that went against it. Major Brown offered his service on this occasion to general Montgomery, and the general writes, "that upon this, and all other occasions, he has found him active and intelligent." That the enemy's Schooner is sunk, the troops in high spirits, and that he was in expectation of soon accomplishing his business, as, with the six tuns of gunpowder taken by major Brown, he intended to set to work in earnest. That col. Warner had had a brush with a party from Montreal, and that the enemy retired with the loss of five prisoners and some killed. That the Caghnawagas had desired 100 men, which he had complied with, and was glad to find they placed so much confidence in him. That the commanding-officer at St. John's had been so polite as to let our batteaus pass to the head of the Rapids, in order to take in the baggage of the Chamblee garrison.
With 77 privates, taken prisoners, were the following officers, besides a number of women and children: Major Stopford. Capt. Price sick. Capt. Goodwin. Lieutenants Harman, Harrison, and Shuttleworth. Capt. Alge, of the Schooner. Commissary McCulloch. A surgeon.
There was also taken in the fort, a large quantity of provisions of all kinds, 124 barrels of powder, one box of musket shot, 6564 musket cartridges, 150 stand of French arms, 3 royal mortars, 61 shells, 500 hand-grenades, 83 royal fusileers, 83 accoutrements, and rigging for three vessels, and two colours of the 7th regiment, or Royal Scotch Fusileers, which are sent to the Congress.
Captain Stiles arrived here on Friday from Bermuday. Coming out, he spoke a vessel, that left London the 10th of September, the captain of which informed him that he sailed with three men of war, and 25 transports, with 5000 Hanoverians, bound for Charlestown, South Carolina.
Extract of a letter from Boston, October 8.
"There are several vessels belonging to Philadelphia here, viz. captains Dean, Doman, Bradford, Mullowny, Warden, and brig Polly Hurst, for Madeira, besides about 50 sail more belonging to other ports, the West Indies &c."
IN CONGRESS, July 19, 1775.
Whereas the government of Great Britain hath prohibited the exportation of arms and ammunition to any of the plantations, and endeavoured to prevent other nations from supplying us:
Resolved, that for the better supplying these colonies with the necessary means of defending their rights, every vessel importing gunpowder, saltpetre, sulphur, provided they bring with the sulphur four times as much saltpetre, brass field-pieces, or good muskets fitted with bayonets, within nine months from the date of this resolution, shall be permitted to load and export the produce of these colonies, to the value of such powder and stores aforesaid, the non-exportation agreement notwithstanding; and it is recommended to the committees of the several provinces to inspect the military stores so imported, and to estimate a generous price for the same, according to their goodness, and permit the importer of such powder and other military stores aforesaid to export the value thereof, and no more, in produce of any kind.
CHARLES THOMPSON, secretary.
IN CONGRESS, October 18, 1775.
Resolved, that a just and well authenticated account of the hostilities committed by the ministerial troops and navy in America, since last March, be collected, with proper evidence of the truth of the fact related, the number and value of the buildings destroyed by them, also the number and value of the vessels, inward and outward bound, which have been seized by them since that period, as near as the number and value can be ascertained, also the stock taken by them from different parts of the continent.---That mr. Deane, mr. J. Adams, and mr. Wythe, be a committee for this purpose.
CHARLES THOMPSON, secretary.
IN CONGRESS, Nov. 1, 1775.
Resolved, That no produce of the united colonies be exported (except from colony to colony, under the direction of the committees of inspection and observation, and except from one part to another of the same colony) before the first day of March next, without the permission and order of this Congress.
CHARLES THOMPSON, secretary.
*N. B. The above committee request the printers of the several publick papers in the united colonies to insert the above for three or four weeks successively, and all persons possessed of any facts relative to, or that may throw light on the above subject, to transmit the same to them as early as possible.
WILLIAMSBURG, November 17.
COL. Henry received an express yesterday morning with the following intelligence, viz. that lord Dunmore, having received advice that about 200 of the Princess Anne militia were on their march to join the troops destined for the protection of the lower parts of the country, marched from Norfolk last Tuesday, about 1 o'clock P. M. with about 350 men, consisting of regular soldiers, sailors, runaway negroes, and tories, to intercept them; who, not having the least intelligence of his lordship's approach, were obliged to engage
under every disadvantage, both as to the enemy's superiority in point of numbers, and the situation of the ground, being hemmed in by a fence. Our people fought a considerable time, and it is thought did great execution; but were at last overpowered, and forced to retreat, with the loss of mr. John Ackiss in the minute service, killed on the spot, and col. Joseph Hutchings, and one mr. Williams, wounded, who were taken prisoners, with seven others. The publick, no doubt, will be exceedingly incensed on finding that lord Dunmore has taken into his service the very scum of the country to assist him in his diabolical schemes against the good people of this government, all well attached to his majesty, but mortal enemies to his infamous ministry and their subordinate tools; but it is to be hoped his sphere of mischief will soon be circumscribed within narrow bounds, as col. Woodford, with about 800 as brave troops as the world can produce, are now on their march to Norfolk, and, should his lordship incline to give them battle, we have not the smallest doubt will give a very satisfactory account of him.
By a letter from Philadelphia, we learn that it was expected St. John's would soon fall into our hands, after the taking of Chamblee. Col. Arnold, with the troops gone against Quebeck, was got within about 90 miles of it when the last accounts came from him, and expected to be there by the 20th of October, and was in hopes the fall of St. John's would leave general Schuyler at liberty to detach 1500 men to his assistance.
At a committee held for Prince Edward county, at the courthouse, on Thursday the 26th of October 1775:
THE committee took into their consideration the proceedings of the late Colonial Convention held at Richmond, July the 17th, 1775; and, after mature deliberation on the same, came to the following resolutions:
Resolved unanimously, that this committee doth entirely and heartily approve the resolutions and ordinances of the said Convention; that they consider them as having the full force and power of a law, and as such ought to be equally binding and obligatory on all the good people of Virginia; and that we will exert, from time to time, in our respective capacities, our true and unremitting endeavours in carrying the same into full and complete execution, according to the true sense and spirit thereof; and that we shall most certainly rank in the same class as our common and avowed enemy any person or persons who shall presume, willingly and intentionally, to infringe the same, or attempt to obstruct the free execution thereof; and, as such, they shall be sure of meeting our just resentment and indignation.
Resolved unanimously, that our cordial and unfeigned thanks are justly due to the worthy delegates who composed the said Convention, for their honest zeal and attachment to the great American cause in general, and the interest of their constituents in particular, as manifested through their proceedings.
Ordered, that the clerk transmit a copy of the above resolutions to mr. Purdie, and entreat him to publish the same as soon as convenient.
JOHN NASH, jun. chairman.
*** We have received some pieces lately, which the authors must be sensible, upon due recollection, are quite unfit to appear in a publick newspaper, where chastity of language is always expected, that modesty may not be put to the blush.---The copy of verses from Amherst, upon the death of a worthy gentleman, the late col. Robert Bolling of Buckingham (to use the author's own words) appear rather weak, too weak, to celebrate his many virtues.

FALLS of JAMES river, October 25, 1775.
AT the solicitation of many gentlemen on Potowmack, and influenced by my own interest on that river, I have been endeavouring to open its navigation from tide-water upwards, and have been at considerable expense in preparation, &c. to forward that useful work; but the necessity of a Maryland act of assembly co-operating with one passed in Virginia, and which I have not yet been able to obtain, has obliged me to decline it for the present.
This disappointment would be more affecting, if it did not afford me an opportunity of employing my time and attention in opening and extending the navigation of James river, which, though a work less interesting to me, is of equal utility to the publick. But to make my interest in some measure correspond with the publick's, I have paid 560 l. sterling to Mr. Patrick Coutts for the land situated on the river, where the water must be taken out into the canal, and where I have begun, and done some part of the canal, with other improvements, very expensive.
I therefore inform the publick, that, having a fee-simple therein, I am going on with the canal at my own expense, and will farther risk my whole fortune and time on the success of my undertaking, and desire no aid or assistance until I make the navigation safe and easy to Shocko warehouse; expecting, nevertheless, the more large and generous contributions from all who benefit when the work is done.
N. B. I want to hire 100 SLAVES for the above purpose, and would be glad to treat with any person or persons inclinable; at the same time, could assist with the best part of their winter clothing, if not otherwise provided.
JOHN BALLENDINE.
For SALE
BAY BOLTON, a full-blooded hunter, 8 years old, 16 hands high, formed for strength and activity, clear of all blemish, and very healthy. He is of a fine bay colour, with one white foot, and has a strip and star. He was got by Holmes's STARLING, out of a full-blooded hunter mare. For Starling, Mr. Holmes refused 1000 guineas. Bay Bolton's colts, these two seasons, have turned out very fine. One fourth of his price to be paid in hand, the remainder in two yearly payments, for which bond and security will be demanded, by
(4) JOHN CARLYLE.
CHARLES CITY, &c.
William Rickman, one of his majesty's justices of the peace for the said county, to all sheriffs, mayors, bailiffs, constables, and head-boroughs, within the colony and dominion of Virginia:
WHEREAS complaint is this day made to me, upon the oath of William Gregory, that AARON and MICHAEL, two negro slaves formerly belonging to the hon. William Byrd, esq; and who were under sentence of death, did, on the 10th instant, forcibly escape from the jail of this county, and are now going at large: These are therefore, in his majesty's name, to require you, and every of you, in your respective counties, towns, and precincts, to make diligent search, by way of hue, and cry, for the said Aaron and Michael, and them having found to seize and retake, and safely convey, or cause to be safely conveyed, to the jail of the said county of Charles City, there to be kept until they shall be thence discharged by due course of law.
Given under my hand and seal this 12th day of July, 1775, in the 15th year of the reign of our sovereign lord GEORGE III.
(tf) WILLIAM RICKMAN.
To be SOLD at publick auction, pursuant to the last will and testament of Mr. John Todd Bickerton, deceased, at Hanover courthouse, on the first thursday in December next, being court day,
ONE tract of LAND lying on the Byrd creek, in Albemarle county, containing 700 acres, with a plantation cleared sufficient to work seven or eight hands, and convenient buildings for a family. Also one other tract, lying on Hickory creek, in Louisa county, containing 1425 acres, without any improvements thereon. These lands are subject to the dower of Mrs. Martha Bickerton. Twelve months credit will be allowed, the purchaser giving bond, with approved security, to the executors. (7)
To be SOLD, on short or long credit, or for ready money,
THE tract of land where I live, called Drummond's Neck, containing 700 acres, in James City county, about 15 miles from Williamsburg. The land, in common, is very level and rich. There are, I suppose, 300 acres of marsh, superior to any I have seen. It lies high, remarkably dry, and convenient to be reclaimed. Plenty of wildfowl, almost of all kinds, frequent here. On this land are two exceeding fine fisheries, all convenient, and necessary houses, with a garden lately built. I will also sell my stocks of cattle, sheep, and hogs, with my crops of wheat, oats, corn, and fodder. Although this piece of land has many advantages in its situation which others have not that are on the river, yet I cannot possess an equal share of health here, not being used to the lower parts of the country for several years past.
(6)
JOHN AYLETT.
N. B. I want to hire a CARPENTER, a single man, for a few months.
Essex county, September 10, 1775.
RUN away from the subscriber, about the middle of July last, a Virginia born negro lad named NED, who is about 18 years of age, and about 5 feet high; one of his hands has a large scar, occasioned by its being burnt when he was a child, by which means some of his fingers grow together. He has a flat face and long head, which is remarkably sharp on the top. His clothes were such as is common for working negroes, and he was seen going down the country. Whoever will secure the said negro, so that I get him again, shall have a reward of 40s. besides what the law allows.
(tf)
JAMES EDMONDSON.
YORK TOWN, September 19, 1775.
RUN away from col. Philip Rootes, of King & Queen, a negro man named HARRY, who some years ago was 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 have 40s. reward.
(tf)
THE EXECUTORS.
RUN away from the subscriber, at West Point, in King William county, the 21st of last December, a very likely Virginia born negro man, named MIKE, about 22 years old, six feet high, and stutters much; had on, when he went away, a suit of negro cotton, but may probably change his clothes. I forewarn all masters of vessels from carrying him out of the colony. Whoever brings the said negro to me shall have 3l. reward, besides what the law allows, and if taken out of the colony 10l. (tf.) JOHN WEST.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Gloucester county, on the 14th of this instant (May) a negro man named NED, about 19 or 20 years of age, five feet two or three inches high, rather of a tawny complexion, has some ringworms on his face, and some white hairs in his head; his clothing was an old brown coat, and a yellow striped cotton waistcoat. I bought him last March at the sale of Mr. John Shermer in James City county, for Mann Page, junior, esquire. He was brought from one of his quarters in King William county, and I have reason to believe that he will go to those parts, or to his mother, who lives with Mr. Thomas Booth, in Richmond town. Any person who will take up the said slave, and secure him so that I get him again, shall be paid 40s. by Mann Page, junior, esquire, to whom the negro belongs.
(tf)
JAMES JONES.
COMMITTED to Norfolk county jail, on the 8th of March last, a negro man, who says his name is DAVY, and that he belongs to William Smith on the eastern shore of Maryland; he is about 5 feet 10 or 11 inches high. The owner is desired to take him away, and pay charges. (12) SAMUEL PORTLOCK, jailer.
COMMITTED to Norfolk county jail, on the 10th of September last, a slim negro man, who says his name is WILLIAM PARROT, that he is a freeman, and was born about a mile from Williamsburg; he is about 6 feet 2 inches high. His owner (if any) is desired to take him away, and pay charges. (12) SAMUEL PORTLOCK, jailer.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND, containing 3000 acres, whereon is a plantation which has employed, for some years past, twelve or fourteen slaves; this tract lies in the upper end of King William county. Also a tract lying in the lower end of the said county, containing 1100 acres, and pleasantly situated on Pamunkey river; a brick dwelling-house, with necessary offices, a fishing shore, and a lively fertility of soil, recommend the latter tract to any gentleman who may be about to settle in life. Possession will be delivered on the 25th of December next, to the purchaser, or purchasers, who will have liberty of sowing fall grain. Mr. Benjamin Grymes, jun. of Orange, will make known particulars to any person who may be inclined to purchase the whole, or any part of the said tracts. Credit till the first of January 1777 will be allowed, by
JUDITH ROBINSON.
(tf.)
LUCY ROBINSON,
BENJAMIN GRYMES, jun.
To be SOLD in Amherst county, FOUR THOUSAND acres of exceeding good tobacco LAND, being part of a large tract formerly advertised, together with a very valuable gristmill, upon Buffalo river. This land is equal to any that has yet been sold of the tract. The time of payment will be made agreeable to purchasers. Mr. Gabriel Penn, who lives near the land, is authorised to bargain for it, and will show it to any person inclinable to purchase.
(tf)
CARTER BRAXTON.
For SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, contiguous to Mattapony, containing about 2000 acres of well timbered land, the property of Mr. Robert Baylor. The terms may be known by applying to Mr. Nathaniel Burwell in King William, Mr. John Armistead in Caroline, or Mr. John Baylor, executors. (tf)
ARTICLES of Intelligence, Essays, Advertisements, &c. are thankfully received for this Paper, the Price of which is 12s. 6d. per Annum; Advertisements inserted as usual. PRINTING WORK done with Care and Expedition, and on reasonable Terms.

At a committee appointed and held for Hanover county, on Wednesday the 8th of November 1775.
THIS committee being apprehensive that the enemies of America may be supplied with grain, or other provision, by transporting the same by water: Therefore, it is hereby directed and ordered, that no person within their jurisdiction be allowed to carry any grain, or other provision, from landing to landing, without a permit from John Syme, William Johnson, Benjamin Anderson, William Anderson (son of Nelson) and Barttelot Anderson, gentlemen, or any two of them; and that the persons praying such permit do give bond and security, payable to the Committee of Safety for the time being, or their successors, in such sums as shall be adjudged necessary by the above gentlemen, to comply with such orders as they shall direct.
Ordered, that a copy be transmitted to the printers to be published.
WILLIAM BEATLEY, clerk.
The following gentlemen are chosen a committee for Hanover county, agreeable to a late order of Convention, viz. Benjamin Anderson, William Craghead, William Macon, Thomas Garland, Garland Anderson, Thomas Trevillian, John Syme, John Pendleton, Samuel Meredith, George Dubney, Samuel Overton, William Anderson of Dundee, John Starke, sen. Barttelot Anderson, William Anderson son of Nelson, Charles Crenshaw, Nelson Anderson, jun. John Starke, jun. William Johnson, Barret White, and Paul Thilman.
To be LET to the highest bidder, at Hanover courthouse, for the ensuing year, on
Thursday the 7th of December next, THE well accustomed tavern in Hanover town belonging to the estate of Thomas Tinsley, deceased. The many conveniencies belonging to this house are too well known to require a particular description, and therefore it is sufficient to say, they are equalled by very few, and exceeded by none in the colony. Bond and security, to the administratrix, will be required. Any person inclined to engage by private contract may apply to Leighton Wood, inn. for terms.
To be rented till Christmas 1776, and may be entered on immediately.
ATENEMENT in the town of Richmond, opposite to mrs. Younghusband's tavern, which will suit very well either for a tavern or two families. The houses are in very good repair, and there is a large garden, and a stable that will hold twelve horses. Any person inclinable to rent the said tenement may apply to mr. George Donald, near Richmond, who is fully empowered to rent the same, by
GEORGE MUTER.
I INTEND to leave the colony soon, and to return in a few months.
NINIAN MENZIES.
STRAYED or STOLEN from the subscriber in King William, about the beginning of October last, a black horse intermixed all over with white hairs, paces altogether in the bridle, is about 4 feet 7 or 8 inches high, has a hanging mane and switch tail, and branded on the near buttock R. Whoever conveys the said horse to me shall have 40s. reward.
(2) CALEB TURNER.
COMMITTED to Essex county jail, a negro fellow who calls himself William Pig, and says he belongs to doctor William Clarke of Charlotte county. The owner is desired to take him away, and pay charges.
JAMES EMERSON, jailer.
THE subscriber intends to leave the colony soon, and will return in a few months. In his absence, mr. John Barret is fully empowered to transact his business. ROBERT BAINE.
WILLIAMSBURG, November 15, 1775.
BROKE jail on Monday the 13th instant (November) a remarkable light mulatto slave, named DICK, the property of mr. Anthony Lamb of Amelia, about 20 years old, 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high, has a down look, a scar in his upper lip, short dark hair, and dark eyes; had on, a red lappelled sailor's waistcoat, narrow osnabrug trousers and shirt, a cocked hat, and shoes and stockings. He has been run away for 18 months past, and went by water as a freeman, till last summer, when he enlisted as a soldier, in Princess Anne county, under capt. Davis, by the name of Will. Thompson, and came to this city, where he was taken up, and committed to jail. I imagine he will again try to pass for a freeman, and endeavour to get on board some vessel, or return to Princess Anne, where I hear he left a crop of corn. Whoever secures him in any jail, so that I get him again, shall have 40s. and if brought home to me 3l. reward.
JOHN LAMB.
FIVE POUNDS REWARD,
FOR apprehending BAKER FULLAM, a 31 years servant, who ran away about the latter end of September last. He had on a blue lappelled coat with white metal buttons, and I believe a blue jacket and leather breeches, pretty much worn. He stole from a young man, a tutor in my family, a white shirt marked A. S. a blue fusticot coat, a pair of black everlasting breeches, one of nankeen do. a pair of thread stockings, and another of marbled worsted, a pair of shoes little worn, with a pair of pinchebeck shoe buckles, and a beaver hat about half worn. He is a likely well set fellow, about 27 years old, 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, is of a light colour, with hazle eyes, and wears his hair, which is short, and of a dark brown colour. He has a scar on one of his cheeks, which he received for one of the many villanies he has committed during his servitude. He is a plausible fellow, talks much, especially when in liquor, and will be very impertinent if not checked. He is a good groom, and boasts his skill in that way. He has been accustomed for many years to wait upon me, and made an elopement from Richmond at the last Convention, where he was apprehended, and brought to me soon after my return. I suspect he is now harboured by some of the free mulattoes or negroes in that neighbourhood; or probably he may offer his services to lord Dunmore, who, I am told, does not object to the colour or condition of any. The above reward will be given if he is apprehended in the neighbourhood of Williamsburg, if 100 miles off, 4l. if 50 miles 50s. at a smaller distance and out of this county 40s. and if within the county 20s. if brought home, otherwise the mileage to be deducted out of the reward.
THOMAS BLACKBURN.
Prince William, near Dumfries, Nov. 6.
TAKEN up in Amherst, two fleers. One of them is black, about 4 years old, marked with a crop and underked in the right ear, and a swallow-fork in the left. The other is black and white, about 7 or 8 years old, has a blemish in his right eye, marked with a crop and slit in the right ear, with a crop in the left, and branded on the near buttock O.
JOHN CABELL.
STAFFORD county, AQUIA, Nov. 8, 1775.
RUN off last night from the subscriber, a negro man named CHARLES, who is a very shrewd sensible fellow, and can both read and write; and as he has always waited upon me, he must be well known through most parts of Virginia and Maryland. He is very black, has a large nose, and is about 5 feet 8 or 10 inches high. He took a variety of clothes, which I cannot well particularise, stole several of my shirts, a pair of new saddle bags, and two mares, one a darkish, the other a light bay, with a blaze and white feet, and about 3 years old. From many circumstances, there is reason to believe he intends an attempt to get to lord Dunmore; and as I have reason to believe his design of going off was long premeditated, and that he has gone off with some accomplice, I am apprehensive he may prove daring and resolute, if endeavoured to be taken. His elopement was from no cause of complaint, or dread of a whipping (for he has always been remarkably indulged, indeed too much so) but from a determined resolution to get liberty, as he conceived, by flying to lord Dunmore. I will give 5l. to any person who secures him, and the mares, so that I get them again.
ROBERT BRENT.
N. B. Since writing the above advertisement, the mares have returned, and there is a great probability, from many circumstances, to conclude that he was taken from Dumfries, in company with a white servant of mr. Andrew Leitch's, in an oyster boat belonging to one Kelly, near Smith's point, in Northumberland. I will give 10l. if he is taken, and allow a handsome gratuity to any person who can convict Kelly of having carried him off.
WILLIAMSBURG, Nov. 14, 1775.
STOLEN out of my company, a few days past, a small RIFLE GUN with a yellow stock somewhat defaced, without a box, and broken just below the lock; the breech is mended with three iron pins. Whoever will produce the said gun to the commanding-officer at this place shall have 20s. reward, and on conviction of the thief 40s.
WILLIAM FONTAIN.
YORK TOWN, November 7, 1775
STOLEN from Fleet's ferry landing, on Mattapony river, last Friday night, a 25 bld FLAT, with her sail, covering, anchor, cable, &c. The frame is of mulberry, and the yard quite new. Two sailors, who came passengers down the river, from Todd's warehouse, in the flat, were missing at the same time, and it is supposed have carried her to Norfolk, or up the bay. Whoever secures the flat, and will give me intelligence so that I get her again, shall be handsomely rewarded. DAVID JAMENON.
STRAYED or STOLEN from the subscriber in Charles City, the 7th of this instant, at night, a light bay mare 4 feet 5 or 6 inches high, has no brand that I remember, but many saddle spots on her back, paces, trots, and gallops well, drags her hind feet, and was with foal when taken from me. Whoever brings the said mare to me, if taken in this or New Kent county, shall have a dollar reward; if in any other county, 20s.
JOHN SHEARMAN.
COMMITTED to Essex county jail, as a runaway, Isaac Lewis, by trade a waggon-maker, about 5 feet 11 inches high, and says he is a native of Pennsylvania; he has on an old drab coat and green waistcoat, osnabrug shirt, and an old felt hat. JAMES EMERSON, jailer.

WILLIAMSBURG, November 8, 1775.
THE attorney-general's slaves and household furniture, which were advertised for sale at the next meeting of the merchants, will be sold the 25th day of this month, by
JOHN BLAIR, ] surviving trustees. JAMES COCKE, ]
To be SOLD, the 20th of this instant (November) being York court day,
THE personal estate of mrs. Mary Lightfoot, deceased, consisting of household furniture, some Maderia wines, two horses, two carts, with a seine and pettiaugre. Twelve months credit will be allowed for all sums above 5l. the purchasers giving bond and security to
WILLIAM ALLEN.
NOVEMBER 8, 1775.
WAS lost by the troops that went from this place to Hampton, on thursday the 26th of October last, a VERY LARGE SORREL HORSE, branded on one, or both buttocks, I B; has a small star in his forehead, a long hanging mane and switch tail, trots hard, and gallops well. Any person who delivers the said horse to mr. James Somervill merchant in Fredericksburg, to mrs. Stevens at Culpeper court-house, or to mr. William Finnie of Williamsburg, shall receive a reward of 40s.
EDWARD STEVENS.
Wanted immediately,
A N ADJUTANT to the minute battalion of Southampton district, also a person who understands the FIFE and beating of the DRUM to perfection. Any persons qualified for the above purposes, that want employment, and can come well recommended, are desired to apply to the commanding-officer of the said battalion.
STOLEN from the subscriber's pasture, near Williamsburg, a light bay mare, 3 years old next spring, about 4 feet 4 inches high, has a star in her forehead a little larger than a dollar, both hind feet white, a hanging mane and switch tail, and paces naturally. Whoever brings her to me, in Williamsburg, shall have 20s.
GABRIEL MAUPIN.
N. B I will not be answerable for any that may get away for the future.
NORTHUMBERLAND, October 20, 1775.
RUN AWAY from the subscriber, a negro man named BEN, about 25 years old, is very black, middle sized, has a scar over one of his eyes, occasioned by a burn when young, and had on when he went away (which is about three months ago) such clothes as negroes commonly wear in summer. He is a pretty good sawer, and can do a little at the carpenters work. I will give 5l. reward to any person who will deliver him to me, if taken in Virginia, if in Maryland or Carolina, 10l. I suspect some person has forged a pass for him, that he may travel as a freeman.
7|| JOHN GORDON.
TAKEN up in Caroline, last April, a BLACK STONE COLT about 4 feet 3 inches high, appears to be about two years old last spring, has no white about him, and is neither dockt nor branded. I have had him cut. The owner may have him by applying to me, near the Guinea bridges.
WILLIAM ARNOLD.
TAKEN up in Augusta, a BLACK MARE about 14 years old, 14 hands and a half high, has a large star in her forehead, some saddle marks, is a trotter, and has a blotched brand on her near shoulder; along with her there is a year old BLACK FILLY. Pasted, and appraised to 3l. 15s.
|| GAWIN HAMILTON.
To be rented to the highest bidder, on the 11th of December, and entered upon at Christmas,
A PLANTATION near Winchester, called Neville's, belonging to the estate of James Burwell, esq; deceased, consisting of 1100 acres of land, together with 12 hands, which are now on the land. The quality of the land is extremely good, and the meadow ground in good order. There is on the premises a commodious stone dwellinghouse with eight rooms, and all necessary buildings for a large farm. If any person should incline to make a private bargain, application may be made to major Cocke of Loudoun county, or
ANNE BURWELL.
KING'S creek, Nov. 7, 1775.
STRAYED or STOLEN from Hampton, a light bay horse about 14 hands and a half high, with a blaze in his face, white hairs in his mane and tail, paces and gallops well, and branded on the off buttock C
R N. He was rode from Williamsburg by capt. Buford of the rifle company. Whoever will bring the said horse to mr. Alexander Purdie, printer, shall have 20s. reward.
BEVERLEY DICKSON.
WHEREAS, I some time in the year 1773, purchased a tract of land, containing 350 acres, lying on the waters of Rocky creek, in the county of Albemarle, of one William Crawford, of the county aforesaid, in part payment of which I passed two bonds to the said Crawford, for the sum of 15l. each, the one payable the 15th of June 1775, the other the 15th of June 1776, and as there is a dispute between us about the said tract of land, this is to forewarn all persons from taking an assignment of either of them.
2|| DAVID RODES.
AS nothing becomes an honest man more than to acknowledge his error as soon as he is convinced he is in one, the subscribers, living in the county of Amherst, do hereby acknowledge that we were led into a mistake by taking up a groundless report to the prejudice of the character and reputation of mr. Patrick Crawford, of the county of Augusta. We do therefore acknowledge our fault, and ask pardon of the said Crawford for spreading a report which we are now convinced was false and malicious.
MICHAEL CRAFT. ELIZABETH CRAFT.
To be rented for one or more years, and entered upon directly,
THE HOUSE and TENEMENT, in Richmond town which mr. Patrick Coutts, merchant, at present possesses, belonging to the estate of capt. James Gunn. It is one of the most beautiful and healthy situations in America.
JAMES BUCHANAN, Guardian for the heir.
WILLIAMSBURG, October 22, 1775.
STRAYED or STOLEN from the subscriber, a bay horse about 14 hands and a half high, with a hanging mane and small switch tail, the mane on his near side, has some saddle spots on his back, and branded on the near buttock thus [hardly perceivable]. Whoever brings him to me, Coach and chair-maker, near the capitol, shall have 20s. reward, or 5l. on conviction of the thief.
WILLIAM HOLLIDAY.
*** Several CHAIRS for sale.
TAKEN up in Chesterfield, a BAY MARE 6 or 7 years old, 4 feet 9 inches high, appears to be blooded, is short dockt, shod before, branded on the near shoulder resembling a woman's stirrup-iron, and looks as if she had been much rode bareback. Pasted, and appraised to 16l.
|| WILLIAM MOORE.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Botetourt county, on the 13th instant, a convicted servant man named JOHN MURPHEY, about 5 feet 3 inches high, with a large and bushy head of dark coloured hair, is an Englishman, speaks plain, and writes well. He was dressed when he went away in a white Russia-drill coat and waistcoat, and leather breeches, but probably will change his clothes (as he took with him a variety of others) and attempt to pass as a freeman. He carried away nine holland shirts, two ruffled ones marked IM, with broad hems on the ruffles, two others plain marked AC, with the numbers below the marks, the other five ruffled only at the bosom, with narrow hems on the ruffles, three pair of stockings, one of gray worsted, one of white thread, the other of brown thread, a white cotton waistcoat corded, a country made blue striped handkerchief, a white jeans waistcoat and pair of breeches, an old great coat, with one corner torn off, and the button-holes in the pocket flaps made downwards; also a silver watch, with a double case, on the inner of which is engraved Stephen May, London, and on the edge of the plate under the case the same, a fantail hat, with yellow lining, and in the crown R. May, 75. a fine pair of almost square silver buckles, with TA stamped on them, and a number of other articles, too tedious here to mention. He rode away a likely bay horse 4 years old, about 4 feet 6 inches high, has a film over one of his eyes, and a small black spot on the near side of his neck, paces and gallops well. He also took an old portmanteau, saddle and saddle bags. I will give any person 10l. reward for taking up and securing the thief and the stolen goods, so that I get them again, or 5l. for the thief alone, and will pay any person over and above what the law allows for bringing him to me, in the county aforesaid.
JOHN MAY.
JAMES CITY county, November 1, 1775.
RUN away from Drummond's neck, the 27th of last month, a young negro man named HARRY, who can read and write, and carried with him several suits of clothing. I purchased him of mr. James Donald, who brought him from Scotland, where he had been many years. He has had the smallpox, can speak Scotch, and sings Scotch songs. Whoever brings him to me shall have 20s. reward, besides what the law allows.
(6) JOHN AYLETT.
TAKEN up in New Kent, a BRINDLED COW with a star in her forehead, two white feet, some white on her back, and is not marked. Pasted, and appraised to 30s.
JOHN GLENN.
TAKEN up in Hanover, a brown pied STEER, appears to be 3 years old, marked with a crop and slit in the left, and underkeel and slit in the right ear.---Also two HEIFERS, one black pied, and marked as above; the other red pied, marked with a crop and slit in the right, and slit and underkeel in the left ear; they appear to be 2 years old each. Pasted and appraised, the steer to 30s. and the heifers to 20s. each.
CHARLES SIMS.
TAKEN up in Buckingham, a ROAN MARE 6 or 7 years old, about 4 feet 4 inches high, has a star in her forehead, a hanging mane and switch tail, and branded with a large dot on the near shoulder and buttock. Pasted, and appraised to 7l.
|| BENJAMIN WHEELER.
TAKEN up in Orange, a dark bay HORSE about 4 years old, a natural pacer, with a large star in his forehead, two white feet, branded on the near shoulder I, and on the near buttock M. Pasted, and appraised to 11l.
|| ZACHARIAH BURNLEY.