The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1776-04-13 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
WITH THE FRESHEST ADVICES,
BOTH FOREIGN AND DOMESTICK.
IN CIVITATE LIBERA LINGUAM MENTEMQUE
LIBERAS ESSE DEBERE.----Suet. in Tib. S. 28.
PRINTED by JOHN DIXON
And WILLIAM HUNTER.
ALL Persons may be supplied with this PAPER at Twelve Shillings and Sixpence a Year, and have ADVERTISEMENTS (of a moderate Length) inserted for Three Shillings the first Week, and Two Shillings each Week after.-----PRINTING WORK done at this Office in the NEATEST Manner, with Care and Expedition.
WILLIAMSBURG, APRIL 13, 1776.
AS GENERAL LEE must, in a great Measure, regulate the Motions of the Continental Troops under his Command, according to the internal Force of the Colony, the Committees of the different Counties are requested to send into Head Quarters a Return of their Minute-Men, with the State and Condition of their Arms.
To the INHABITANTS of VIRGINIA.
Caput, domina, venale, sub basta. His fortune ruined, and himself a slave.
JUV.
MY COUNTRYMEN, HE fears of many, lest we should not be able to provide sufficient funds for the support of an expensive war, has been the reason why they have been so reluctant to break that connection with Britain which has been the source of so many evils, and may probably incline them to spend that time in NEGOTIATION which they ought to employ in action; but a little attention to the advantages that we shall derive from unrestrained commerce may dissipate their fears, and point out to them an ample compensation for all the expences, the dangers, and the toils of the war. I shall only produce the trade of this colony as an example, with which you are best acquainted. This has hitherto been almost wholly managed by foreigners, and in foreign bottoms; and will be so again, if, by any NEGOTIATION, our enemies can betray or bribe us to an accommodation on their own principles. You are without merchants, ships, seamen, or ship-builders; and thus want several very abundant sources of wealth, as well as nurseries of arts, and of numerous useful subjects to the state. Your trade is confined to a single spot on the globe, in the hands of the natives of a distant island, who fix the market of all commodities at their pleasure, and we may be very sure will rate your's at the lowest; and their own at the highest prices, they will in any conscience bear. Every article of merchandise, that is not the produce of Britain, must first pay its duties to the Crown, perhaps must be increased in the price a very large advance per cent. there, and then be re-exported to Virginia, and undergo an additional advance of 75, and sometimes near 150 per cent. here. This disadvantage is much more sensible by those who are acquainted with the trade of the northern colonies, where they are not altogether so shamefully gulled as we have been from the first plantation of this colony. You can there buy linens and broadcloths from the retail merchants at the same price your factors here tell you they obtain them at prime cost in Britain. By this means you fairly lose 75. currency on every 100. sterling worth of merchandise you import from Great Britain that is not native to that country. If we suppose your imports from thence annually to amount to 700,000. sterling (which can be no extravagant supposition) and suppose upon one half of that sum you lose in the proportion which I have already mentioned, there will be lost 262,500. per annum, which might be saved by a free and independent trade; or, to be sure that we are within bounds, fix it at 200,000.
Let us next advert to the amazing injury you sustain in the dependent trade, by your merchants being all foreigners. This is a situation not peculiar to you, but affects all the southern colonies, from Maryland to Georgia. I am not well enough acquainted with the trade of Virginia to know exactly how many foreign houses, or companies, have an interest in it, or how many factors are employed by them to manage it; but I suppose I shall be far enough within bounds if I say fifty of the former, and two thousand of the latter. Whether I am right or wrong in the numbers, the principles of my calculation will be equally just, and may be very easily applied to enlarge and diminish the profit or loss to the merchant and the country, by readers who are better acquainted with the subject than I am. It is not unreasonable to say, that every house, or company, makes 15,000. a year neat gain by the trade of this colony; and consequently fifty houses will annually export 750,000. sterling, to Scotland and England, which will be just so much saved to the colony whenever its own natives shall become its merchants. And allowing to the factors, on an average, one hundred pounds each per annum, as some have much more, and others perhaps may have less; if, out of this annual income, we suppose them to spend thirty pounds in the country, there will be seventy pounds a year laid up for their own use, and expended in Britain, for what they cannot, or do not, choose to purchase in America. But because they pay taxes, and are of some other small service to the colony, as long as they stay in it, we will rate their gain at ten pounds less, and suppose them to lay up sixty pounds a year, which is so much taken out of the trading stock of this country, and only waits for a sufficient addition to be carried off and expended beyond sea. Here is another loss of 120,000. per annum; and the whole together amounts to 870,000. sterling per annum that we lose by foreign merchants; besides the great number of useful arts that are closely connected with the management of commerce by the natives of any country. How many thousand excellent subjects might be employed in ship-building, in manning your fleets, in raising and manufacturing all kinds of naval stores? Reflect a moment on the present condition of Spain, and on her condition two centuries ago. She presents us with a striking instance, out of a great number which Europe, Asia, and Africa afford, of the ill effects of resigning her commerce into
the hands of foreigners; then the most opulent and formidable power in Europe, now among the most despised and neglected; then able to give laws to almost all the world. The United Netherlands were but an inconsiderable part of her extensive and powerful empire, but now grown indolent, and negligent of commerce. Even the little province of Holland, in her turn, gives the laws of the sea to her former mistress.
I am afraid this subject, though very important, begins to grow dry and unentertaining to the public. I shall therefore produce but one more instance of the loss we sustain by this independent trade; and that is in our staple, upon which the government of England, and the merchants of Scotland, have it in their power to put what price they please. At present we esteem twopence halfpenny per pound, or about twenty shillings per cwt. a very good average price; and at this rate a careful planter may keep himself above want, and have enough besides to pay his taxes, and give a dinner now and then to a friend. This tobacco is exported to Britain, and pays seven-pence halfpenny sterling duty per pound, and their merchants make their fortunes out of it afterwards. The duty that tobacco pays in the British ports is almost four times the price it bears in Virginia; which, by a free trade, and exporting it directly to the countries that consume it, would be so much clear gain to us. The planter then, instead of twenty shillings, would receive five pounds per cwt. But, making large allowance for the discouragements that such an article of luxury might be under in our hands, if we were separated from Britain, which now consumes a large proportion of it, I shall suppose its common price to be three pounds; that is, forty shillings more than we receive at present. If then we suppose that there are annually 110,000,000 lbs. or 110,000 hogheads of tobacco exported out of the colony (which perhaps is pretty near the truth) we shall gain an advantage of 2,200,000. a year, besides half as much more by the great quantities of hemp, flax, cotton, wheat, and flour, that are beginning to be raised or manufactured; that will enable my countrymen to be as generous, as their natural temper inclines them to be, and to pay a tax of forty shillings with greater convenience than they can pay one of fifteen shillings at present. To present you in one view the whole of what you lose by a dependent trade, and would gain by a determined resolution to emancipate yourselves and it into the liberty for which I hope Providence has designed both, and to listen to no pretended NEGOTIATION that does not carry upon her face candour and fairness, and openly, and without disguise, extend freedom in the one hand, while she offers peace in the other,
  1st. On imports, as above, — — — £. 200,000   2d. Merchants neat profits 870,000. sterling, 1,087,500 cur.   3d. Planters gross profits — — — 2,200,000   4th. On wheat, flour, hemp, flax, &c. at least half as much; but say, — — — 1,000,000   5th. That part of the gross profits of the merchants that will go to artists of different kinds, ship-builders, seamen, makers of sails, cordage, anchors, and a variety of other tradesmen, must exceed their neat gain: Suppose it — — — 1,500,000   Sum total £. 5,987,500 
That is, it will increase the real property among us annually to near six millions. This in seven years (by which time we shall undoubtedly have discharged our part of the continental expence) will amount to above forty millions of pounds currency that we shall be more wealthy than we should have been if we had continued dependent on Great Britain, and in the same circumstances that a few years ago we esteemed very prosperous. I make no allowance for the gradual improvement of commerce, because I am willing to make all my calculations at the lowest rates that things will bear; and it is very possible that I am now a million or two below the truth. Besides, we may let the increased profits of some of the last years of this period balance our unskilfulness and poverty for a few years in the beginning of it. Here is a fund sufficient for defraying all the expences that even the most timorous amongst us can suppose to be necessary for the preservation of our liberties, against the avarice of a nation much more powerful than the English, and not a farthing of our present property touched. And although we should not be able to enjoy an unmolested trade for several years to come; yet, whenever that desirable period shall arrive, that we shall be as free as we ought to be, we shall speedily be able to redeem all the bills of credit it may be found necessary to issue for that purpose. For if we lay but the moderate tax of a shilling in the pound (which we should hardly perceive) only on those gains that will be wholly additional to the gains of our former limited and dependent commerce, we shall be able to sink all the bills issued in this colony, and our quota of those that have been issued by the Congress; and have in the public coffers besides upwards of five millions of dollars for other necessary uses.
If we aim only at interest in the present contest, it appears plainly what part we ought at once to resolve upon. If we mean to unite with our interest the considerations of equity, and the dictates of natural affection, there is a degree of injury where affection ceases, and is converted into resentment; and I know of no principles of equity that forbid us to defend ourselves, or that require us to risk every thing we have been contending for in tedious and treacherous NEGOTIATIONS. Does any of my countrymen ask me whether I am an enemy to all treaty, and inquire what prospect shall we have, if these maxims prevail, of ever seeing a period of our troubles? I answer, no; but I would treat with them as the Roman Consul did with the King of Asia. And since they have first drawn the sword, I would mark a circle round them with the sword, and demand their peremptory, unreserved answer to every requisition our country has a right to make from them, before they leave the spot. The controversy has been agitated long enough for both nations to understand each other. Each perfectly knows what she is willing to yield, or on what she will firmly fix her foot, determined to hold it, or perish in the attempt. What need is there of delay? An hour may decide it as well as an age. We are too serious to be playing over with them all the tricks of what they are pleased to call NEGOTIA-
TION, but which is really nothing else than downright lying and harping. It is no time to parley with a robber about your purse, when he has his pistol at your breast. You must either give or take in a moment. It would become us, in the opinion of some men, mighty well to be sure, to forbear such high language, and rather to manage our cause by supplication and crying to a great King and a powerful nation! We have cried and roared long enough already, and what have we got by it? Our petitions have been turned out of doors, and we have all been called rebels and savages, and what not, because we have roared so loud as to disturb his Majesty's good repose, and oblige him to wear out his horses driving from Kew to St. James's. If we are blameable, it is for using these ineffectual applications too long. The time is come in which we ought to do something decisive; and the more desirous our enemies seem to be to involve us in knotty and intricate NEGOTIATIONS, the more determined should we be not to unravel them, but to cut them with the sword. They well know that tedious, inactive delays, must bring our affairs to a ruinous condition; and if they can waste our time in negotiating, the battle is won without striking a stroke. Our resources must be greatly diminished before we engage in action; and when they have worn us out with subtle deliberations, and wasted our treasure, while they only wanted to gain time by artful compliances and demands, they know very well how, by a fetch in politics, to throw every thing into confusion again, and to expose us naked, and perhaps distracted with mutual discords among ourselves, to superior wealth, and superior power. I design no reflection on those who may be appointed to treat with them on the part of America. On the other hand, I do not doubt their abilities. But it is always in the power of a Ministry, who will be treacherous, and whose interest lies in gaining time, to over-reach the wisest politicians, if they will descend to follow them through the labyrinths of a negotiation that is only meant as a wile to mislead, or to blind them. But we have not only an accumulated debt to dread by the tedious delays that are unavoidable in the common forms of negotiating, but infinite dissensions among ourselves. An enterprise that depends upon the concord and exertions of the people, will ever infallibly fail if they are long held in a state of doubtful inactivity. All wise politicians, who have governed them with success, have found it necessary to keep them employed in constant action. I can scarcely forbear to consider it as miraculous, that this extensive continent has hitherto been led to pursue one determinate plan, with so much unanimity and perseverance. But there is no error we ought more to dread than wearing out the patience of the populace by inaction. When their minds have long hung in suspense, at such a crisis as the present, they naturally fall into one of these two dangerous evils, either an entire languor and passivity of temper, or an impatience that at length breaks out in faction and sedition. In two of our neighbouring colonies, which have been farthest removed from the scene of action, we have already seen this observation unhappily verified. And the suspense in which all the colonies have been held for a considerable time is beginning to verge towards impatience, which will very probably soon burst out into violent mutual dissensions, if it shall be defrauded of a proper enemy by an unseasonable NEGOTIATION; especially when it is artfully managed by emissaries who will refuse neither promises nor rewards to enflame it to their purpose. For God's sake then, my countrymen, let us waste no time in unnecessary and dangerous delays; let us act with vigour and decision; let us propose to them the terms we demand in a clear and unequivocal manner, and require of them an immediate and unequivocal answer. Suffer them not to waste an hour, for every hour is precious, under the artful pretence of considering propositions more maturely, which they ought to have been well determined on long ago; or of not having brought with them sufficient powers, a usual artifice of statesmen so that they can propose or answer nothing decisive without sending two or three times across the Atlantic. And since they have set us the example of treating at the point of the sword; cut short the NEGOTIATION they would be willing to protract, and make your appeal at once to the sword. A PLANTER.
The following are copies of letters which passed, before the late action in NORTH CAROLINA, between Brigadier General Moore, and Brigadier General M c Donald.
A letter from DONALD M c DONALD, Esq; lately created Brigadier General in the Tory army, by Governor Martin, to Brigadier General MOORE, at Rockfish, dated February 19, 1776.
SIR, I HEREWITH send the bearer (Donald Morrison) by advice of the commissioners appointed by his Excellency Josiah Martin, and in behalf of the army now under my command, to propose terms to you as friends and countrymen. I must suppose you unacquainted with the Governor's proclamation, commanding all his Majesty's loyal subjects to repair to the King's royal standard, else I should have imagined you would, ere this, have joined the King's army now engaged in his Majesty's service. I have therefore thought it proper to intimate to you, that in case you do not, by 12 o'clock to-morrow, join the royal standard, I must consider you as enemies, and take the necessary steps for the support of legal authority.
"I beg leave to remind you of his Majesty's speech to his Parliament, wherein he offers to receive the misled with tenderness and mercy. From motives of humanity, I again beg of you to accept the proffered clemency. I make no doubt but you will shew the Gentleman sent on this message every possible civility, and you may depend, in return, that all your officers and men which may fall into our hands shall be treated with an equal degree of respect. I have the honour to be, in behalf of the army, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, DON MAC. DONALD.
His Excellency's proclamation is herewith enclosed. Brigadier General MOORE's answer.
SIR, YOUR's of this day I have received, in answer to which I must inform you, that the terms which you are pleased to

say, in behalf of the army under your command, are offered to us as friends and countrymen, are such as neither my duty or inclinations will permit me to accept, and which I must presume you too much of an officer to expect of me. You were very right when you supposed me unacquainted with the Governor's proclamation, but as the terms therein proposed are such as I hold incompatible with the freedom of Americans, it can be no rule of conduct for me; however, should I not hear further from you before 12 o'clock to-morrow, by which time I shall have an opportunity of consulting my officers here, and perhaps Colonel Martin, who is in the neighbourhood of Cross-Creek, you may expect a more particular answer; mean time you may be assured that the feelings of humanity will induce me to shew that civility to such of your people as may fall into our hands, as I am desirous should be observed towards those of ours, who may be unfortunate enough to fall into yours.
I am, Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Camp at ROCKFISH, Feb. 19, 1776. JAMES MOORE. From Brigadier General MOORE to Brigadier General M'DONALD.
SIR, AGREEABLE to my promise of yesterday I have consulted the officers under my command, respecting your letter, and am happy in finding them unanimous in opinion with me. We consider ourselves engaged in a cause the most glorious and honourable in the world, the defence of the liberties of mankind, in support of which we are determined to hazard every thing dear and valuable; and in tenderness to the deluded people under your command, permit me, Sir, through you to inform them, before it is too late, of the dangerous and destructive precipice on which they stand, and to remind them of the ungrateful return they are about to make for their favourable reception in this country: If this is not sufficient to recall them to the duty which they owe to themselves and their posterity, inform them that they are engaged in a cause in which they cannot succeed, as not only the whole force of this country, but that of our neighbouring provinces are exerting and now actually in motion to suppress them, and which must end in their utter destruction.—Delirious however of avoiding the effusion of human blood, I have thought proper to send you a copy of the test recommended by the Continental Congress, which if they will yet subscribe, and lay down their arms by to-morrow 12 o'clock, we are willing to receive them as friends and countrymen.—Should this offer be rejected, I shall consider them as enemies to the Constitutional Liberties of America, and treat them accordingly.
"I cannot conclude without reminding you, Sir, of the oath which you and some of your officers took at Newbern, on your arrival in this country, which I imagine you will find difficult to reconcile to your present conduct.—I have no doubt that the bearer, Captain James Walker, will be treated with proper civility and respect in your camp.
I am, Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, Camp at ROCKFISH, Feb. 20, 1776. JAMES MOORE. From Brigadier General M'DONALD to Brigadier General MOORE.
SIR, I RECEIVED your favour by Captain James Walker, and observed your declared sentiments of revolt, hostility, and rebellion to the King, and to what I understand to be the constitution of this country. If I am mistaken, future consequences must determine; but while I continue in my present sentiments I shall consider myself embarked in a cause which must, in its consequences, extricate this country from anarchy and licentiousness. I cannot conceive that the Scots emigrants (to whom I imagine you allude) can be under greater obligations to this country than to that King under whose gracious and merciful government they alone could have been enabled to visit this western region. And I trust, Sir, it is in the womb of time to say, that they are not that deluded and ungrateful people which you would represent them to be. As a soldier in his Majesty's service, I must inform you (if you are yet to learn) that it is my duty to conquer, if I cannot reclaim, all those who may be hardy enough to take up arms against the best of masters, as of Kings. I have the honour to be, in behalf of the army under my command, Sir, your most obedient servant.
HEAD QUARTERS, 20th Feb. 1776. DONALD M'DONALD. JAMES MOORE, Esquire.
Messrs. DIXON & HUNTER, By inserting in your useful and impartial paper the following abstract from letters lately published in PHILADELPHIA, you will oblige a number of your readers, and particularly
AN OLD CUSTOMER. [From the PENNSYLVANIA PACKET.]
THE account which we have already received of commissioners being appointed in England, and ready to embark for America, in order to negotiate a settlement of the present unhappy differences, has engaged the attention, and exercised the speculations of many among us. The powers with which they are to be invested, the manner in which they are to be received, how they are to be treated with, or whether they are to be treated with at all, have been canvassed agreeable to the different views or judgments of individuals.
"Among others, a writer under the signature of Cassandra , in the Pennsylvania Evening Post, has held forth sentiments which I conceive highly disgraceful to America, and pernicious to society in general. He pretends to have satisfied himself (upon what grounds I know not) that the sole view of Administration in this commission is to amuse and deceive, to bribe and corrupt us. And because he supposes all of us so very corruptible, he proposes, by way of prevention, to seize the commissioners upon their first setting foot on shore, and bring them immediately under a strong guard to the Congress. I have too good an opinion of the virtue and good sense of my countrymen to think they will pay any other regard to this advice, than to consider the author as an enthusiast, or madman.
"The contest in which we are engaged is founded on the most noble and virtuous principles which can animate the mind of man. We are contending, at the risk of our lives and fortunes, against an arbitrary Ministry, for the rights of Englishmen. The eyes of all Europe are upon us, and every generous bosom, in which the pulse of liberty yet beats, sympathises with us, and is interested in our success. Our cause, therefore, being the cause of virtue, it will be expected that all our steps should be guided by it; and that where the stock is so fair, the fruit will be proportionably perfect. Let us not disappoint these sanguine expectations by the smallest deviation from those liberal and enlarged sentiments which should mark the conduct of freemen; and when the faithful HISTORIC page shall record the events of this GLORIOUS STRUGGLE, may not a single line in the bright annals be stained by the recital of a disgraceful action, nor future Americans have cause to blush for the failings of their ancestors.
"As we have long professed an ardent desire of peace, let us meet those who bring the terms, with that virtuous confidence which is inseparable from an upright conduct. Let us hear their proposals with patience, and consider them with candour; remembering how deeply the happiness of millions may be concerned in the issue. If what they offer be such as freemen ought to accept, my voice shall be for an immediate reconciliation; as I know of no object so worthy of a patriot as the healing our wounds, and the restoring of peace, if it has for its basis an effectual secu-
rity for the liberties of America. If, on the contrary, the terms which may be offered should be such as we cannot accept, we have only to say so, and the negotiation will be at an end.
"When I consider that this treaty is to be managed, on the part of America, by men delegated for their integrity and abilities by the voice of their country, I feel myself easy on that score. If the scheme of the Ministry be to try the arts of corruption where their arms cannot prevail, there are other and less suspicious ways of carrying it into execution than by commissioners, in the face of America, where they will have the eyes of all fixed upon them, and their conduct diligently watched, and severely scrutinized.—Upon the whole, it appears that this writer is more an enemy to the business on which the commissioners are to be sent, than really apprehensive for our virtue. He seems to be inimical to whatever carries the appearance of peace , and too ready to sacrifice the happiness of a great continent to his favourite plan. Among such writers I pretend not to class myself; for I am bold to declare, and hope yet to make it evident to every honest man, that the true interest of America lies in reconciliation with Great Britain, upon constitutional principles , and I can truly say I wish it upon no other terms.
"Why the many publications in favour of independency , with which our presses have lately groaned, have passed hitherto unnoticed, I am not able to determine. But there are certainly times when public affairs become so interesting that every man becomes a debtor to the community for his opinions, either in speaking or writing. Perhaps it was thought best, where an appeal was pretended to be made to the COMMON SENSE of this country, to leave the people for a while to the free exercise of that good understanding which they are known to possess. Those who made the appeal have little cause to triumph in its success. If little notice has been taken of the publications concerning independence , it is neither owing to the popularity of the doctrine, the unanswerable nature of the argument, nor the fear of opposing them, as the vanity of the author would suggest. I am confident that nine tenths of the people of Pennsylvania yet abhor the doctrine.
"If we look back to the origin of the present controversy, it will appear that some among us, at least, have been constantly enlarging their views, and stretching them beyond their first bounds, till at length they have wholly changed their first ground. From the claim of Parliament to tax us sprung the first resistance on our part. Before that unjust claim was set on foot, not an individual, not one of all the profound legislators with which this country abounds, ever held out the idea of independence . We considered our connexion with Great Britain as our chief happiness; we flourished, grew rich, and populous, to a degree not to be paralleled in history. Let us then act the part of skilful physicians, and wisely adopt the remedy to the evil.
"Possibly some men may have harboured the idea of independence from the beginning of this controversy. Indeed it was strongly suspected there were individuals whose views tended that way; but as the scheme was not sufficiently ripened, it was reckoned slanderous, inimical to America, and what not, to intimate the least suspicion of this kind.
"Nor have many weeks yet elapsed since the first open proposition for independence was published to the world. By what men of consequence this scheme is supported, or whether by any, may possibly be the subject of future inquiry. Certainly it has no countenance from the Congress, to whose sentiments we look up with reverence. On the contrary, it is directly repugnant to every declaration of that respectable body. It would be needless to quote particular passages in proof of this, as they are to be met with in almost every page of their proceedings. I will refer to a few only, viz. their resolves, March 5, 1775; their declaration, July 9; their address to the King, July 8; their letter to the Lord Mayor; and more especially their declaration for a fast, June 12, in which, with the deepest marks of sincerity, they call from all America to join with them in addressing the great Governor of the world, "humbly beseeching him to avert the devastating judgments with which we are threatened, to bless our rightful Sovereign, &c. that so America may soon behold a gracious interposition of heaven for the redress of her many grievances, the restoration of her invaded rights, and reconciliation with the parent state, on terms constitutional and honourable to both." Will any one be so hardy as to say, that either the appointment or observation of this solemn day was a mere mockery of heaven and earth, or even that any American joined in it who was not sincere? I trust not. But if multiplying authorities were of any use, I might add the sentiments of our own representatives in Assembly, expressed in the instructions to their Delegates; the sentiments of Maryland, in similar instructions; the resolves of New Jersey and New Hampshire; nor shall the much injured province of Massachusetts Bay be left out of the catalogue, whose provincial congress, while yet bleeding with the wounds received at Lexington, thus addressed the inhabitants of Great Britain: "These are marks of ministerial vengeance against this colony, but they have not yet detached us from our royal Sovereign, &c. trusting, that, in a constitutional connexion with the mother country, we shall soon be a free and happy people." These were the sentiments of the colony of the Massachusetts Bay, signed by that great martyr to liberty, Dr. Warren, and soon after sealed with his blood. The sentiments of sundry other colonies might be shown to have corresponded with these. Upon the whole, I doubt not to make it appear, that independence is not the cause in which America is now engaged in, and is only the idol of those who wish to subvert all order among us, and rise on the ruins of their country.
"I have, in my second letter, freely declared my political creed , viz. "That the true interest of America lies in reconciliation with Great Britain, upon constitutional principles , and that I wish it upon none else." I now proceed to give my reasons for this declaration. It is fit, in so great a question, that you should weigh both sides well, and exercise that good sense for which the inhabitants of these colonies have been hitherto distinguished; and then I shall be under no apprehensions concerning the pernicious, though specious plans, which are every day published in our news-papers and pamphlets. The people generally judge right, when the whole truth is plainly laid before them; but through inattention in some, and fondness for novelty in others, when but one side of a proposition is agitated and persevered in, they may gradually deceive themselves, and adopt what cooler reflection, and future dear-bought experience, may prove to be ruinous.
"Agriculture and commerce have hitherto been the happy employments by which these middle colonies have risen into wealth and importance. By them the face of the country has been changed from a barren wilderness into the hospitable abodes of peace and plenty. Without them, we had either never existed as Americans, or existed only as savages. The oaks would still have possessed their native spots of earth, and never have appeared in the form of ships and houses. What are now well cultivated fields, or flourishing cities, would have remained only the solitary haunts of wild beasts, or of men equally wild.
"That such of our former felicity was owing to the protection of England is not to be denied; and that we might still derive great advantages from her protection and friendship, if not valued at too high a price, is equally certain; nor is it worth inquiring, whether that protection was afforded us more for her own sake than ours. That the former was the case, more especially since the colonies grew into consequence, I have not the least doubt; but that this is a reason for our rejecting any future connection with her I must utterly deny. Although I consider
her as having, in her late conduct towards us, acted the part of a cruel step-dame , and not of a fostering parent, I would not therefore quarrel with the benefits I may reap from a connection with her, and can expect to reap no where else. If, by her fleets and armies, every nation upon the globe is deterred from invading our properties, either on the high seas, in foreign countries, or on our own coasts, ought we not in sound policy to profit by her strength; and, without regarding the motives of her conduct, embrace the opportunity of becoming rich and powerful in her friendship, at an expence far less than it would cost us merely to exist in alliance with any other power?
"If our present differences can be accommodated, there is scarce a probability that she will ever renew the late fatal system of policy, or attempt to employ force against us. But should she be so infatuated, at any future period, as to think of subjugating us, either by the arts of corruption, or oppressive exertions of power, can we entertain a doubt but that we shall again, with a virtue equal to the present, and with the weapons of defence in our hands (when necessary) convince her that we are willing, by a constitutional connection with her, to afford and receive reciprocal benefits; but, although subjects of the same King, we will not consent to be her slaves? It was on this ground , and not for the purpose of trying new forms of government, "or erecting separate independent states," that America embarked in the present glorious contest. On this ground , and upon none else, the continental union is formed. On this ground , we have a powerful support among the true sons of liberty in Great Britain; and lastly, upon this ground , we have the utmost assurance of obtaining a full redress of our grievances, and an ample security against any future violation of our just rights. And if hereafter, in the fulness of time, it shall be necessary to separate from the land that gave birth to our ancestors, it will be in our state of perfect manhood, when we can fully wield our own arms, and protect our commerce and coasts by our own fleets, without looking to any nation upon earth for assistance.
"This I say was our ground, and these our views, universally declared from the origin of this contest, till within a few weeks ago, when some gleams of reconciliation began first to break in upon us. If we now mean to change this ground, and reject all propositions of peace , from that moment we are deserted by every advocate of our cause in Great Britain. We satisfy every declaration which the Congress hath heretofore held forth in our behalf. We abandon all prospect of preserving our importance by trade and agriculture, the ancient, sure, and experienced road to wealth and happiness.
"In short, if thus contradicting all our former public professions, we should now effect independency as our own act, before it appears clearly to the world to have been forced upon us by the cruel hand of the parent state, we could neither hope for union nor success in the attempt. We must be considered as a faithless people in the sight of all mankind, and could scarcely expect the confidence of any nation upon earth, or look up to Heaven for its approving sentence. On the contrary, every convulsion attendant upon revolutions and innovations of Government, untimely attempted, or finally defeated, might be our portion; added to the loss of trade for want of protection; the consequent decay of husbandry; bloodshed and desolation; with an exchange of the easy and flourishing condition of farmers and merchants, for a life, at best, of hardy poverty as soldiers or hunters .
"To see America reduced to such a situation may be the choice of adventurers who have nothing to lose, or men exalted by the present confusion in lucrative offices, which they can hold no longer than the continuance of the public calamities. But can it be the will of all that great and valuable body of people in America, who, by honest industry, have acquired a competency, and have experienced a happy life? Can it be their will, I say (for such considerations) to have destruction continually before their eyes; and to have enormous debts entailed upon them and their posterity, till at length they have nothing left which they can truly call their own?
"I know the answers which will be given to these questions, and am prepared to reply to them, with that temper and gravity which so serious a subject requires. It will be asserted (indeed it has been already asserted) that the animosities between Great Britain and the colonies are now advanced to such a height that reconciliation is impossible. But assertions are nothing, when opposed to the nature of things, the truth of history and all past experience. The quarrels of nations, being neither personal or private , cannot stir up mutual hatred among individuals. There never was a war so implacable, even among states naturally rivals and enemies, or among savages themselves, as not to have peace for its object as well as end! And, among people naturally friends, and connected by every dearer tie, who knows not that their quarrels (as those of lovers ) are often but a stronger renewal of love ? In such cases, the tide of affection reverting to its course is like that of water long pent back, which, at length bursting the opposing mounds, breaks forward through its native channel, and flows with redoubled vigor and increased velocity, to mix itself with its parent main!
"It has been further asserted, that we are able, with our land forces, to defend ourselves against the whole world; that if commerce be an advantage, we may command what foreign alliances we please; that the moment we declare ourselves an independent people , there are nations ready to face the British thunder, and become the carriers of our commodities for the sake of enriching themselves; that, if this were not the case, we can soon build navies to force and protect a trade; that a confederacy of the colonies into one great republic is preferable to Kingly government , which is the appointment of the devil , or at least reprobated by GOD; that those denominated wise men , in our own and foreign countries, who have been so lavish of their encomiums upon the English constitution, were but egregious fools ; that it is nothing better than a bungling piece of machinery, standing in need of constant checks to regulate and continue its motions; that the nation itself is but one mass of corruption, having at its head a royal brute , a hardened Pharaoh , delighting in blood; that we never can enjoy liberty in connection with such a country, and therefore all the hardships mentioned above, and a thousand times more, if necessary, are to be endured for the preservation of our rights.
"If these things had been as fully proved, as they are boldly asserted by the authors of what is called COMMON SENSE , I should here drop my pen, and through the short remainder of life take my chance of whatever miseries Providence may have in reserve for this land, as I know of none else to which I can retire. But as these doctrines contradict every thing which we have hitherto been taught to believe respecting Government, I hope you, my dear countrymen, have yet kept one ear open to hear what answer may be given in my future letters." CATO.
CAMBRIDGE, March 21.
LAST Sabbath the British army in Boston, under General Howe, consisting of upwards of 7000 men, after suffering an ignominious blockade for many months past, disgracefully quitted all their strong holds in Boston and Charlestown, fled from before the army of the United Colonies, and took refuge on board their ships. The most material particulars of this signal event are as follows: About 9 o'clock a body of the enemy were seen to march from Bunker's Hill, and at the same time a very great number of boats, filled with troops, put off from Boston, and made for the shipping, which mostly lay below the Castle.

On the first discovery of these movements, the continental army immediately paraded, several regiments embarked in boats, and proceeded down the river from this place. About the same time two men were sent to Bunker's Hill, in order to make discoveries. They proceeded accordingly; and, when arrived, making a signal that the fort was evacuated, a detachment was immediately sent down from the army, to take possession of it. The troops in the river, which were commanded by General Putnam, landed at Sewall's Point; where they received intelligence that all the British troops had left Boston; on which a detachment was sent to take possession of the town, while the main body returned up the river. About the same time General Ward, attended by about 500 troops from Roxbury, under the command of Colonel Ebenezer Learned (who unbarred and opened the gates) entered the town on that quarter, Ensign Richards carrying the standard. The command of the whole being then given to General Putnam, he proceeded to take possession of all the important posts, and thereby became possessed, in the name of the Thirteen United Colonies of North America, of all the fortresses in that large and once populous and flourishing metropolis, which the flower of the British army, headed by an experienced General, and supported by a formidable fleet of men of war, had, but an hour before, evacuated in the most precipitate and cowardly manner. It was found that a great part of the evacuated houses had been pillaged, the furniture broken and destroyed, and many of the buildings greatly damaged. It is worthy of notice, however, that the buildings belonging to the Hon. Mr. Hancock, particularly his elegant mansion-house, were left in good order. All the linen and woollen goods, except some that might be secreted, were carried off by the enemy. All the salt and molasses, which they could find, were destroyed. The enemy also destroyed great quantities of effects belonging to themselves, which they could not carry away, such as gun carriages, and other carriages of various kinds, house furniture, &c. together with a quantity of flour and hay. All their forts, batteries, redoubts, and breast works remain entire and complete; they left many of their heaviest cannon, mounted on carriages, and several of them charged; all of them were either spiked up or had a trunnion beat off. They also left several of their largest mortars. Quantities of cannon shot, shells, numbers of small arms, and other instruments of war, have been found in many parts of the town, thrown off the wharfs, concealed in vaults, or broken in pieces. In the fort on Bunker's Hill several hundred good blankets were found. It is said, about 15 or 20 of the King's horses have been also taken up in the town; and it is thought, about the same number of Tories remain behind, all the rest being gone with the fleet.
The enemy, previous to their going off, scattered great numbers of crows feet on Boston Neck, and in the streets, in order to retard our troops in case of a pursuit; and with such silence and precaution did they embark, that a great part of the inhabitants did not know it till after they were gone. The prisoners, who were long confined in goal, were cruelly carried off in irons. Tuesday evening the enemy set fire to the block-house and barracks at the Castle, and yesterday they were employed at the same place in blowing up and demolishing the fortifications. The enemy's fleet, consisting of about 100 sail, still lie between the Castle and Nantasket.
NEW YORK, March 28.
By the Albany post we are informed, that letters had just come to hand in Albany, informing, that Governor Carleton, one morning, had shot 17 of his men for refusing to fight: That the few forces under his command, as well as the people in general in Quebec, were much divided: That our forces amounted to 5700 men, and many on their march, which, when joined, would augment our army to upwards of 6000; and that our troops were to storm the city the 20th of March.
Thursday about 1000 rifle-men arrived here from Boston; and Saturday last Brigadier General Heath, with Stark's, Webb's, Bond's, Patterson's, and Grew's regiments, arrived here from the same place, by way of New London. Part of Col. Dayton's battalion from Elizabeth town, and several Companies from Connecticut, came to town last week also. So that we have here about 8000 men.
Extract of a letter from CAMBRIDGE.
"Colonel Mifflin had yesterday an interview with Major Small, who informed him, that they expected the commissioners to treat with the Congress, and that the Duke of Grafton was one of them. He also informed him, that they (in Boston) heard that General Clinton and his troops were taken."
PHILADELPHIA, April 1.
IN CONGRESS, March 23, 1776.
WHEREAS the petitions of these united colonies to the King, for the redress of great and manifest grievances, have not only been rejected, but treated with scorn and contempt, and the opposition to designs evidently formed to reduce them to a state of servile subjection, and their necessary defence against hostile forces actually employed to subdue them, declared rebellion: And whereas an unjust war hath been commenced against them, which the commanders of the British fleets and armies have prosecuted, and still continue to prosecute, with their utmost vigor, and in a cruel manner wasting, spoiling, and destroying the country, burning houses and defenceless towns, and exposing the helpless inhabitants to every misery from the inclemency of the winter, and not only urging savages to invade the country, but instigating Negroes to murder their masters: And whereas the Parliament of Great Britain hath lately passed an act, affirming these colonies to be in open rebellion; forbidding all trade and commerce with the inhabitants thereof, until they accept pardons, and submit to despotic rule; declaring their property, wherever found upon the water, liable to seizure and confiscation; and enacting, that what had been done there, by virtue of the royal authority, were just and lawful acts, and shall be so deemed: From all which it is manifest, that the iniquitous scheme, concerted to deprive them of the liberty they have a right to by the laws of nature, and the English constitution, will be pertinaciously pursued. It being, therefore, necessary to provide for their defence and security, and justifiable to make reprisals upon their enemies, and otherwise to annoy them, according to the laws and usages of nations. The Congress trusting that such of their friends in Great Britain (of whom it is confessed there are many entitled to applause and gratitude for their patriotism and benevolence, and in whose favour a determination of property cannot be made) as shall suffer by captures, will impute it to the authors of our common calamities, DO DECLARE AND RESOLVE as followeth, to wit,
RESOLVED, that the inhabitants of these colonies be permitted to fit out armed vessels, to cruise on the enemies of these united colonies.
RESOLVED, that all ships and other vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and all goods, wares, and merchandise, belonging to any inhabitant or inhabitants of Great Britain, taken on the high seas, or between high and low water mark, by any armed vessel fitted out by any private person or persons, and to whom commissions shall be granted, and being libelled and prosecuted in any court erected for the trial of maritime affairs in any of these colonies, shall be deemed and adjudged to be lawful prize; and, after deducting and paying the wages the seamen and mariners on board such captures as are merchant ships and
vessels, shall be entitled to according to the terms of their contracts, until the time of the adjudication, shall be condemned to and for the use of the owner or owners, and the officers, marines, and mariners of such armed vessel, according to such rules and proportions as they shall agree on. Provided always, that this resolution shall not extend, or be construed to extend, to any vessel bringing settlers, arms, ammunition, or warlike stores, to and for the use of these colonies, or any of the inhabitants thereof, who are friends to the American cause, or to such warlike stores, or to the effects of such settlers.
RESOLVED, that all ships or vessels with their tackle, apparel, and furniture, goods, wares, and merchandise, belonging to any inhabitant of Great Britain as aforesaid, which shall be taken by any of the vessels of war of these united colonies, shall be deemed forfeited; one third, after deducting and paying the wages of seamen and mariners as aforesaid, to the officers and men on board, and two thirds to the use of the united colonies.
RESOLVED, that all ships or vessels with their tackle, apparel, and furniture, goods, wares, and merchandise, belonging to any inhabitant of Great Britain as aforesaid, which shall be taken by any vessel of war fitted out by, and at the expence of any of, the united colonies, shall be deemed forfeited, and divided, after deducting and paying the wages of seamen and mariners as aforesaid, in such manner and proportion as the Assembly or Convention of such colony shall direct.
RESOLVED, that all vessels, their tackle, apparel, and furniture, and cargoes belonging to inhabitants of Great Britain as aforesaid, and all vessels which may be employed in carrying supplies to the ministerial armies, which shall happen to be taken near the shores of any of these colonies, by the people of the country, or detachments from the army, shall be deemed lawful prize; and the Court of Admiralty, within the said colony, is required on condemnation thereof, to adjudge, that all charges and expences which may attend the capture and trial, be first paid out of the monies arising from the sales of the prize, and the remainder equally divided among all those who shall have been actually engaged and employed in taking the said prize: Provided, that where any detachments of the army shall have been employed as aforesaid, their part of the prize money shall be distributed among them, in proportion to the pay of the officers and soldiers so employed.
Extract from the minutes
CHARLES THOMSON, Sec'y.
Extract of a letter from a Gentleman in St. Mary's county, to his friend in BALTIMORE, March 14, 1776.
"We have just taken an oyster boat, with six men on board, and on search, found five British muskets concealed in the boat; the men have been strictly examined, and it appears they came from Virginia, and were bound to Baltimore, and had oysters on board to further their intended purpose; being employed by that infamous tool of Government, Lord Dunmore, as spies, to collect information from and inquire into the situation of your town, and take a view of your fortifications, &c. They are all properly confined. It is hoped you will keep a good look out, and carefully examine all suspected vessels and men."
WILLIAMSBURG, April 13.
ON Sunday the 30th ult. the sloop Liberty, of Perth Amboy, from St. Eustatia, with 83 barrels of gunpowder, 21 bales of dry goods, and two hogsheads of medicines, was taken by a tender, off the capes of Philadelphia, and carried into Norfolk. The Captain, and three passengers, are made close prisoners. The mate escaped; he says he was at Antigua, where were 7000 British troops, making preparations to sail to some part of the continent; that the Roebuck, and another man of war (which he supposed was the Mercury) at the time he was taken, lay in Delaware bay; that there were so many tenders cruising upon the coast, and the caitiffs on board so very vigilant since the proclamation came over directing the distribution of the prizes, that it was almost impossible for any vessel to escape them; and that the people on board the tender informed him the American fleet was at Charlestown, consisting of eleven sail.
We were informed yesterday that the Governor had taken a French sloop (probably it is the same we mentioned in our last) from Martinico, with two engineers on board, a considerable quantity of gunpowder, and 150 or 200 stands of arms.
This week Robert Carter Nicholas and William Norvel, Esquires, were elected Delegates to represent the county of James City in Convention; John Blair, Esq; for the college of William and Mary; and Champion Travis, Esq; for Jamestown. Patrick Henry and John Syme, Esquires, are chosen for Hanover; and Bartholomew Dandridge and William Clayton, Esquires, for New Kent.
Brigadier General Armstrong, who arrived here a few days ago from New York, set out last Thursday for North Carolina.
As none of the judges for holding the General Court of this colony attended at the Capitol on the 10th instant (which was the established time) the Court is of consequence dissolved.
Some of the tenders, it is reported, have seized a ship loaded with wheat and flour, coming down the bay, which is imagined to be the same that the Defence rescued from the Otter near Baltimore; but this wants confirmation. They took a brig yesterday morning within sight of York town.
Two of the Negroes who mistook one of our armed vessels at Jamestown for a tender, and expressed their inclination to serve Lord Dunmore, are under sentence of death, and will be executed in a few days, as an example to others.
Deaths.] Captain THOMAS RUFFIN of the 7th regiment of Virginia forces on continental establishment, stationed in this city.
IN CONVENTION, SATURDAY, Jan. 20, 1776.
RESOLVED, as the opinion of this Convention, that we hold it incumbent upon us, a duty which we owe to ourselves, to our country, and to this whole continent, to oppose, by every method in our power, such unjust and cruel attempts; that the most likely means of effecting this, and of gaining relief and assistance to ourselves, and of distressing our enemies, would be by opening our ports to all persons willing to trade with us, Great Britain, Ireland, and the British West Indies, excepted; and that we give it in recommendation to our Delegates in General Congress to use their endeavours to have such a measure adopted, and carried into execution, so soon as it shall be deemed proper by the said General Congress to permit exportation from North America.
The Ordinance of Convention directs a meeting of the Delegates on the first Monday in May annually, and it is expected there will be a full meeting, as matters of the greatest importance are to come under immediate consideration. It may not be amiss to refer all concerned, to the ordinance, for the form and time of returns.
Advertisements.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 13, 1776.
THE Freeholders of York County are desired to attend at the Courthouse on Monday next, that being the Day appointed for Election of Delegates for said County, agreeable to Ordinance of Convention. W. RUSSELL, CLK. Com.
PETERSBURG, April 8, 1776.
THE Subscriber has on Hand a few Quarter Casks of fine old LISBON WINE, which he will dispose of on very reasonable Terms, for ready Money. EDWARD STABLER.
THE People called Quakers, and several charitable Persons not of their Society, commiserating the Sufferings of many of the late Inhabitants of Norfolk, who are reduced to Poverty and Want by the Destruction of that Town, and having collected some Provisions for their Relief, were sending them down by Water, with Persons deputed to distribute them, but finding it disagreeable to General Lee, hereby give Notice, that these Provisions will be stored at some safe Place up James River, for the Use of such poor Inhabitants as may stand in Need, at the Disposition of Joseph Scott in Nansemond, Anselm Bailey in Surry, John Crew in Charles City, Robert Pleasants in Henrico, the Rev. William Harrison, and Edward Stabler, in Peterjourg.
TO BE SOLD,
THE Houses and Lots wherein the Subscriber now lives, in the Town of Petersburg, consisting of a large Dwelling-House, Storehouse, and all convenient Outbuildings, in good Repair; a large Garden and Pasture adjoining, and the Situation equal to any in the Colony for Business. It is so well known, that a particular Description is unnecessary. Also a few House Servants, Household Furniture, &c. a Lot in the Town of Peterjourg, and 400 Acres of good Tobacco Land in Charlotte. The Purchasers may have Possession immediately, and the Payment made easy by giving approved Security. As I intend leaving the Colony, those who have any Demands against me are desired to apply for Payment; and all Persons indebted, it is hoped, will either discharge their Accounts, or think it reasonable to give Security.
As the Purchasers of the Land in Ward's Fork, belonging to John Lidderdale, Esq; of London, are in some doubt of their having a Right, this is to inform them, that the Deeds will be sent, properly executed, with an Acknowledgment of Mrs. Lidderdale's Right of Dower, when the Times will admit of an Opportunity, and may be assured of having a most undoubted Title made them. They will likewise please to observe, that the Deeds will not be recorded till the Money is paid, agreeable to the Terms of Sale. And if any of the Purchasers are in Doubt of my being properly authorised to make Sale of the Lands, they may be fully satisfied at the Secretary's Office, where the Power of Attorney is recorded. RICHARD HANSON.
THE NOTED HORSE
REGULUS, Late the Property of WILLIAM FITZHUGH, Esq; of Chatham,
NOW stands at the Falls Plantation, in Chesterfield, in high Perfection, and will cover Mares this Season at 30s. the Leap ready Money, or Merchants Notes, and 4l. the Season, for which Notes on Demand, or Merchants Orders, will be expected before the Mares are taken away, when a Discount of 15 per Cent. may be had on prompt Payment. Ensurance 6l. The Mares by the Season will run in as fine Pasture as any in the Colony, and all possible Care will be taken of them, but I will not be answerable for Escapes, or any that may be stolen.
REGULUS is a beautiful Bay, full sized, well marked, and remarkable for getting fine Foals, both as to Beauty and Size. He was bred by the late Col. Baylor, and got by his Horse FEARNOUGHT, out of JENNY DISMAL, who was got by old DISMAL; he won 1000 Guineas Sweepstakes, and five King's Plates, without ever being once beaten. His Sire was the GODOLPHIN ARABIAN. JENNY DISMAL'S DAM was got by Lord GODOLPHIN'S WHITEFOOT.
REGULUS, while the Property of Mr. Fitzhugh, won 50l. at Port Royal, at Annapolis two 50 pounds (where he beat the famous running Horse APOLLO, and the first Rate Horses of Maryland) at Upper Marlborough 50l. at Leeds Town 60l. and at Frederickburg the Jockey Club of 100 Guineas, at which Time he carried 10 Stone; and, although a covering Horse, he beat Mr. Page's Horse DAMON, Mr. Brent's Horse FIGURE, Mr. Spotswood's Horse ECLIPSE, and several others. WILLIAM BLACK.
It was, in some Measure, necessary to be thus particular, to distinguish this Horse from one of the same Name who lately stood in this Neighbourhood.
YORICK,
IN high Health, and great Perfection, stands at his usual Place (Mount Airy) to cover Mares at the Price of 3l. 5s. Pasturage given, but no Ensurance against Escapes.
JOHN WHELDON.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 13, 1776.
THOSE Gentlemen who are still indebted to the Estate of Mrs. Clementina Rind, deceased, and Mr. John Pinkney, for Gazettes, &c. are desired to be so obliging as to send their respective Balances by the Hands of those Gentlemen who are chosen Delegates for the respective Counties, as they are expected to meet here the Beginning of next Month. This will be acknowledged as a particular Favour, as there are many large Debts still due from the said Estate. Proper Accounts and Receipts will be delivered to the Persons who settle with Their very humble Servant, JACOB BRUCE, For the Administratior.
Thirteen Months Gazette due Mrs. Rind's Estate, 13/6; sixteen Ditto due Mr. John Pinkney, 16/8.
STRAYED from Williamsburg, the first of this Instant (April) a rusty black Mare about 13 Hands and a Half high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, paces slowly, and branded on the near Buttock WW in a Piece. It is expected she will make for Hanover, where she was bred. Whoever delivers her to George Dabney, Junior, in Hanover, shall have a Reward of 20s.
STOLEN from the Subscriber, on his March from Augusta to Williamsburg, at New Kent Courthouse, on Monday the 9th Instant, a very neat RIFLE GUN, the Stock of Sugar Tree curled, made pretty dark by Aquafortis, a Brass Box and Brass wire, flourished in the Breech, and Y o Grattan on the Barrel, below the hind Sight. I hereby forewarn any Person from purchasing the said Gun, and will give any Person 20s. who will deliver her to the Printers hereof, and I promise that no Questions shall be asked. JOHN GRATTAN.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, from Williamsburg, a pied MARE, with Wall Eyes, and a sorrel MARE, both with Switch Tails, lately sent down by Post from King William, their Brands, if any, unknown. Whoever delivers them to me in the aforesaid County, or to the Printers of this Paper, shall have 20s. Reward for each. EDWARD VALENTINE, Senior.

POETS CORNER.
The MOURNER. A Medley.
A s hypocrites flatter and sooth, The persons bewitch'd by their cant, Whose tongues are glib, oily, and smooth, While their hands in your purses they want; Their aim is your substance, not you, Though pious pretence they suggest; False tongues they are call'd in God's word, And them with sore plagues he'll infest. Long custom her pattern has drawn, And black is the signal of grief; Too many but seemingly mourn, And inwardly soon find relief; The reason is obvious and plain, They get by the death of their friend, And by shewing their motive is gain, Their sorrow soon comes to an end. To mourn for the dead, as a loss, A true loving friend can't forbear; Yet submissively takes up his cross, And to JESUS commits all his care; He coolly and calmly does wait For the hour appointed above, Which releases him out of this state, And restores to the kingdom of love.
TREASURY OFFICE, April 6, 1776.
PURSUANT to the Directions of the General Convention, I have appointed Mr. John H. Norton to sign the new Treasury Notes of the Denomination of 12s. 6d. 10s. and 5s. in the Room of Major Josiah Parker, who is engaged in other public Service. Mr. Norton, with Major George Lyne, will also sign the Bills of 20s.
N. B. It is hoped, and expected, that the Sheriffs, Clerks, and Inspectors will, without Fail, settle all their Accounts, and pay the several Balances due to the Treasury in the Course of this Month, as no Indulgencies can be given.
RO. C. NICHOLAS, Treasurer.
NORTHUMBERLAND, April 3, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony immediately. WILLIAM FORSYTH.
To be SOLD, at STRATFORD,
A CONSIDERABLE Part of the personal Estate of the late Hon. Philip Ludwell Lee, Esq; consisting of Household and Kitchen Furniture, and sundry other Articles too tedious to particularize. The Sale will begin on Monday the 15th of April, if fair, otherwise next fair Day, and continue until the Whole is sold. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed, on Bond and Security, for all Articles above 40s. but on Failure of punctual Payment, the Bonds to carry Interest from the Day of Sale. THE ADMINISTRATORS.
WARWICK, March 20, 1776.
I INTEND to leave the Colony immediately, and expect to return in a few Months. Any person who has a Demand against me may receive Payment on Application to Mr. David Leitch, Merchant at Warwick, and his Receipt will be valid against me for any Sums that it may be convenient for those who are in my Debt to pay in my Absence. Mr. Leitch has a genteel Mulatto Servant, about 17 Years old, and two valuable Horses, for Sale, on easy Terms. HENRY B. LIGHTFOOT.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 6, 1776.
FOUND , last Sunday, by a Negro Man of mine, a 5l. Bill. The Owner, on proving his Property, and paying Charges, may have it again by applying to JAMES COCKE.
MARCH 25, 1776.
ALL Persons indebted to me are requested to make Payment as soon as possible to Mr. Robert Hart of Spotsylvania, and those who have Demands against me unsatisfied are desired to apply. MALCOLM HART.
PETERSBURG, March 28, 1776.
WHEREAS there are many Accounts still unsettled on the Books at our Store in Charlotte, formerly kept by Mr. Samuel Wimbish, but by Mr. William Barkdale since last Fall, who has still full Power to settle and adjust the same, to pay and receive, and grant Acquittances; and as Mr. Wimbish is about to leave the Colony (in Order to prevent future Disputes) all those that have open Accounts on the Books are desired to apply immediately, and adjust the same, as no Discount, otherwise than what are on the Books, will be allowed after his Departure. WILLIAM CALL, Survivor of Field & Call.
ALL Persons who have any Claims against the Estate of Col. Robert Bolling, deceased, late of Buckingham, are requested to bring them in to Col. William Fleming, of Archibald Bolling, Esquire. THOMAS FLEMING.
CHARLES CITY, March 25, 1776.
I SOME Time ago was unfortunate enough to marry a Woman by the Name of Mary Maria Milmont Parris, but have since found her right Name was Elizabeth Bouver. Finding myself thus imposed upon, and her Conduct different from that of a good Woman, I have separated from her, and hereby forewarn all Persons from crediting her on my Account, as I will pay no Debt of her contracting. JOHN KERR.
PRINCE GEORGE, April 1, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony soon. THOMAS ROBERTSON.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, from Mr. James Hunter's Pasture in King George, a large BAY MARE, 5 Years old, not branded, shod all Fours, has a Star in her Forehead, both hind Feet white, and a hanging Mane, and Switch Tail. Whoever delivers her to the Subscriber, in Fredericksburg, shall have 20s. Reward, and reasonable Charges. JAMES HUNTER, Junior.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Halifax County, the 3d of March, in the Night Time, a Negro Fellow named DANIEL, about 35 Years of Age, straight made, talks plain, is blacker than common, bow-legged, has high Shins, a Scar on the Top of one of his Feet, occasioned by a Burn, is about 5 Feet 6 Inches high, and had on, when he went away, a German Serge Coat with white Shalloo Lining, white Russia Drill Breeches, and blue and white Stockings. As he is artful, I do not doubt but he has procured a forged Pass. He rode away a DARK BAY HORSE about 4 Feet 10 Inches high, 8 Years old, branded on the Shoulder with Something resembling Pq, only that the Bottoms of the Letters are joined together; and had on an old Saddle, with a Hog Skin Seat. Whoever will deliver the said Negro to me shall receive ten Pounds Reward, and fifty Shillings for Horse and Saddle. (||) EVAN RAGLAND.
WARWICK, March 26, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony immediately. CHRISTOPHER MILLAR.
STOLEN from the Subscriber, on the 17th of March, a DARK BAY MARE about 4 Feet 4 Inches high, 5 Years old this Summer, paces, trots, and gallops. She is not branded, but has a remarkable Scar on her Buttock, occasioned by a Burn. One of her hind Feet is white. Forty Shillings Reward will be given to any Person who delivers the said Mare to me in Charles City. LYDIA CREW.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, a DARK BAY MARE about 3 Years old, 4 Feet and an Inch high, has a little White on her hind Foot, a small Star in her Forehead, and branded on the near Buttock IC. (||) JOHN ARVIN.
Just come to Hand, and to be SOLD at this PRINTING-OFFICE,
A large and exact VIEW of the late BATTLE at CHARLESTOWN, Elegantly coloured, Price one Dollar.
Also an excellent MAP of The present SEAT of CIVIL WAR, Taken by an able Draughtsman who was on the Spot at the late Engagement. Price one Dollar.
ROSEGILL, March 16, 1776.
KING HEROD STANDS here, and will cover Mares the ensuing Season at the usual Price, 4l. each Mare. He is in high Order; great Care will be taken of the Mares, but should any stray away, and be lost, they will not be answered for.
TO BE SOLD, A VALUABLE NEGRO MAN About 23 Years of Age, who is a good Hottler, Gardener, and House Servant. Inquire of the Printers.
MARCH 26, 1776.
THE Subscribers to the Fund for Relief of Clergymen's Widows and Orphans are to meet on Saturday the 11th of May next. Their Officers for the present Year are the Rev. Messrs. Adam Smyth, Thomas Feild, William Harrison, Alexander White, Henry Skyring, and Samuel Klug, Trustees; the Rev. Thomas Davies Morning, and the Rev. Samuel Shield Afternoon Preacher; and the Rev. John Cumm Treasurer. By Order. JACOB BRUCE, Clerk.
MANCHESTER, March 20, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony soon. PETER SHIRREFF.
PETERSBURG, March 21, 1776.
We intend to leave the Colony soon. WILLIAM KENNEDY. JAMES BROWN.
LOUISA, March 18, 1776.
RUN away from the Subscriber, on the 16th Instant, a likely Negro Fellow named JACOB, who is about 5 Feet 5 or 6 Inches high, 30 Years old, square and well made, is very black, and has a down Look; had on, and took with him, a coarse blue Cloth great Coat, a fine brown mixed coloured Broadcloth Body Coat, double-breasted scarlet Cloth Waistcoat, a Pair of very good Buckskin Breeches, knit Yarn Stockings, very good Hat and Shoes, and also several Shirts of white and brown Linen, and some Money. He was born in Pennsylvania, bred a Farmer, pretends to great Skill in Farriery, speaks in the Scotch-Irish Dialect, and in Conversation frequently uses the Words moreover and likewise; and as he can read and write, will probably forge a Pass. Whoever takes up said Slave, and secures him so that his Master may get him again, shall have 40s. if taken in Louisa, Albemarle, or Orange; if in any other County in the Colony 5l. and if taken out of the Colony 10l. paid by DAVID HOOPS.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, thirteen HOGS, about two Years old, marked with a Crop in each Ear, an Underkeel in the left, and an Overkeel in the right; they are spotted black, white, and blue. Posted, and appraised to 6l. 10s. WILLIAM BARRY.
TAKEN up, in Hanover County, seven SHEEP, namely, a black Ewe, marked with a Crop in the left Ear, and a Crop and Slit in the right; a white Ewe, with a Crop and Swallowfork in the left Ear, and a Crop in the right. These Ewes came to my Plantation the Summer before last, each with an unmarked Lamb, and the other three have been raised from them since. Posted, and appraised to 2l. 10s. JOHN AUSTIN.
The noted swift Horse
TRISTRAM SHANDY, NOW in full Health and Vigour, stands at Beverley Plain, in the lower End of Caroline County, and will cover Mares this Season at 50s. Good Pasturage gratis, and great Care will be taken of the Mares; but I will not be answerable for any that may get away. TRISTRAM SHANDY was got by MARTON'S TRAVELLER, his Dam by JANUS, out of a fine English Mare. JAMES UPSHAW.
RUN away from the Vineyard, a little below Williamburg, a Negro Man named SAUNDY, 5 Feet 6 Inches high, about 27 Years old, knock-kneed; had on, when he went away, a dark red Newmarket Coat. I have been informed he is lurking about Williamburg. Whoever brings him to me shall have 15s. Reward, besides what the law allows. ANDREW ESTAVE.
FEARNOUGHT
STANDS at Hicks's Ford, in Brunswick County, to cover at 40s. ready Money for a single Leap, or 6l. the Season, payable in October next. Good Pasturage, and Entertainment for Gentlemen's Servants, gratis; but I will not be liable for any Mares that may get away, or be stolen. W. EDWARDS.
The celebrated high bred Horse
YOUNG FEARNOUGHT,
WILL stand at my Stable the ensuing Season, and cover Mares at 20s. the Leap, or 3l. Leap and Trial. The Pedigree of this Horse is so well known as to make a Description needless. His Figure, together with the Size and Form of his Colts, are such as render him, in the Esteem of the best Judges, deservedly one of the best covering Horses in America. He is a fine Chestnut Sorrel, and full sized. Good Pasturage will be furnished for Mares, and great Care taken of them, but I will not be answerable for Accidents. Those Gentlemen who send Mares will be good enough to tend the Money, or their Notes of Hand payable on Demand. WILLIAM GAY. CUMBERLAND, March 1, 1776.
The beautiful high bred chestnut Horse
DAMON,
FULL 5 Feet 5 Inches high, and well proportioned, now rising 8 Years old, and in the highest Perfection, stands at my Plantation in Gloucester County, and will cover Mares at 4l. the Season, or 30s. the Leap. The Gentlemen who send Mares to him must send the Money, or promissory Notes payable on Demand; otherwise they will not be received. I have very fine Pastures for the Mares, and will have great Care taken of them, but will not be liable for any that may stray away. NORTH RIVER, } 6 GLOUCESTER County, } MANN PAGE, Junior.
C Y P H A X
STANDS at the Subscriber's Plantation in James City, and covers Mares at ten Shillings the Leap, twenty five Shillings the Season, and forty Shillings to ensure a Foal. He is just rising eight Years old, a beautiful Bay, fifteen Hands and an Inch high. He was got by the noted old Horse JANUS, out of an imported Mare. Good Pasturage gratis, but I will not be answerable for any Mares that may get away or die. JOHN WALKER.
GODOLPHIN,
A BEAUTIFUL bright Bay, high blooded, about 6 Years old, and in great Perfection, stands at Mr. John Baird's Plantation in Prince George County, near Blandford, to cover Mares the ensuing Season, at a Guinea the Leap ready Money, or 5l. by the Season payable in October 1777, but may be discharged by the Payment of 3l. in December next, or 4l. in May following. The Number of Mares put to Godolphin, since he has been allowed to cover, has gained him such Reputation, as well for the Certainty of his getting Colts, as for their Size and Beauty, that a further Description of him is needless. I have procured two fine large Pastures, under excellent Fences, and the greatest Care will be taken of the Mares; but I will run no Risk. 8|| THOMAS FEILD.
ROCKINGHAM,
A FINE Bay Horse, 16 Hands high, and well proportioned, will stand at Capt. William Denson's on Cypress Creek, in the lower End of Butte County, to cover Mares at 3l. the Season, or 30s. the Leap, Virginia Money. If Gentlemen will pay by the first of October, I will take 40s. the Season, and 20s. the Leap. Capt. Denson has good Pasturage for the Mares, and good Entertainment for Gentlemen gratis, and will use his utmost Endeavours to prevent any Mares getting away; but I will not be liable for any that may get away. JOHN WILLIS. ROCKINGHAM was got by PARTNER, upon an imported Mare belonging to Colonel Thomas Nelson, called Blossom. PARTNER was got by the old English Horse TRAVELLER, upon the imported running Mare SELIMA. BLOSSOM was got by old SLOE, a famous King's Plate Horse; her Dam was a Mare belonging to Lord Rockingham, that won the King's Plate of a Hundred Guineas for five Years old Mares at Hambleton, in Yorkshire, and was got by REGULUS, the Sire of FEARNOUGHT. (11)
TO BE SOLD,
THE PLANTATION where I now live, containing 320 Acres of Land, situated about three Miles above Peterburg, whereon is a large new Brick Dwelling-House 54 Feet by 32, with four Rooms and a flush Passage below Stairs, and five Rooms above, very commodiously contrived, and the Building well executed; a Brick Kitchen 22 Feet by 16, two Rooms below and two above Stairs, with all other necessary Offices in good Repair, and several Orchards of the best Kinds of Fruit Trees. This Seat being well known, I think a more accurate Description unnecessary. The Time of Payment will be made easy to the Purchaser, and the Terms known by applying to Mr. Thomas Ruffin, or ROBERT NEWSUM.