The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1775-03-31 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
ALWAYS FOR LIBERTY,
AND THE PUBLICK GOOD.
ALEXANDER PURDIE, PRINTER.
From the BOSTON EVENING POST.  MASSACHUSETTENSIS and his coadjutors, the high-flying Doctor of New-York, and his subtler brother of the Jerseys, and the whole fry of Tory writers, have for some time past exerted their combined abilities, and put their invention to the utmost stretch, to intimidate the inhabitants of the colonies in their present glorious struggle, and prevent their perseverance in defence of their rights, at the very time when their union has rendered them formidable to their enemies, and gives them the fairest prospect of success. The Tories have long denounced terror against all but their own little party, who are in truth the only rebels against the constitution of their country, the only traitors that have betrayed its essential rights. How often, and how loudly, have they told us, that when the Scarborough should arrive in England, with an account of our proceedings in this province, and when the Suffolk resolves, with the acts of the Continental Congress thereupon, should be received at the British Court, this province, and all America, would immediately be declared and treated as in a state of rebellion! What scarecrows and bug-bears have they held up! What punishments did their gentle bosoms dispense to the poor Whigs! What fines, confiscations, hakers, and gibbets, to men who only asked for their rights, and such as, till of late, had ever been enjoyed by them and their ancestors, to the great advantage of Britain, as well as the happiness of America!
Sir George Saville, Colonel Barre, Mr. Burke, and all who had opposed Administration, we were told, would be the foremost in calling for vengeance upon us. A large army from Britain would immediately be sent to act in conjunction with the troops now in Boston; they would be accompanied, or soon followed, with 15 or 20,000 Hessians and Hanoverians; all the coasts of America were to be covered with British men of war; all our ports shut up; 10,000 Canadians, in British pay, to fall upon our rear; the flaming sword was to brandish every way; no resistance; no escape; while the meek-hearted Tories were to glut themselves with the blood of their innocent countrymen. To accomplish all this, new funds were to be laid, and particularly the land tax raised from three to four shillings in the pound; and as to the loss of the American trade, it would be no more to Britain than a drop taken from the ocean. Such were the mild and humane expectations of the Tories. But the late accounts from England do by no means answer these expectations; their bloody visions have not yet been realized, nor their parricidal plans executed. The Ministry, with all their cruelty and folly, have not been quite so cruel and foolish as some among ourselves have wished them to be. The King's speech, though it chiefly respects American affairs, says not a word of treason or rebellion ; the addresses of the Lords and Commons make no mention of them. No new funds are laid, the land tax remains where it was; for the army this year is upon the common
peace establishment, and the navy, instead of being augmented, is lessened by 4000 men. Neither Burke nor Barre, nor even any of the ministerial advocates, have declared war against America. Lord North evidently appears on the defensive , and is hard put to it to sustain himself. His measures are severely attacked by the best speakers in the House of Commons; he is half ashamed of them himself. He implores candour, and would willingly retract his never to be forgotten words, that he would lay America at his feet . The rash self-confident Minister, who could drive matters in America to so alarming a crisis, and hurry through a thin House the four detestable acts, now seems to have no plan to allay the confusion he has raised, and desires a committee of the House of Commons to pilot him and the nation between Scylla and Charybdis.
But oh! say the Tories, Lord North is a cunning man; he knows how to disguise himself; his present intention he means to keep secret, and to cover his designs against America under a fair and plausible appearance; you will soon see. They need not, however, be at the pains to warn their countrymen against the craft and inimical intentions of Lord North; they are fully aware of them, and will, I doubt not, continue every prudent and rational preparation for their own safety and defence. Their enemy is evidently staggered; this may encourage them: But he is not defeated, and therefore they ought as much as ever to be upon their guard. And if the present happy union and spirit of the colonies continue, as I am persuaded they will, I venture to pronounce we have no reason to be dismayed either by the cunning or courage of Lord North. I am happy to know, that the attempts of our enemies, by their writings, and industriously propagated chimeras and falsehoods, to cajole, to frighten, and to divide us, have had very little effect. The hired and illiberal abuse with which they have for so long a time treated the illustrious characters, and particularly the President of the Continental Congress, have only served to raise them in the estimation of America, and to increase a veneration for their truly wise and salutary decisions, and our brethren in the western colonies may be assured that the Congress of this province, now sitting at Cambridge, was never more firm and united, and that they all agree in their accounts of the same union and firmness through all parts of the Massachusetts.
CURTIUS.
LONDON, December 23.
HIS Majesty constantly rides two hours before breakfast, except when the weather is bad. To this he is strenuously advised by his physicians, on account of a lethargick habit, to which he seems lately to be much inclined.
It is thought that a General Congress of the counties in England will be held after the holidays, to make a general representation of grievances, and to demand redress, like Englishmen.
December 24. A letter from Leghorn says, that news is just received there of an
earthquake in the island of Cyprus, which had done great damage to its three principal towns, viz. Nicosia, Famagosta, and Cerina; that great numbers of people were buried under the ruins, and that part of those who fled into the fields were swallowed by the opening of the earth.
Extract of a letter from the Hague, Dec. 14.
"The last letters from Peteriburg advise, that the unfortunate Pugatchef, the chief of the rebels, had undergone the first examination, in which he seemed very much upon the reserve, and not disposed to discover either the motives of his conduct, or who were his abettors and accomplices. His behaviour had more the appearance of enthusiasm than reason, because the little defence he seemed to make he founded upon his pretensions to the Imperial Crown. Upon the whole, it was thought he would not receive judgment till the Empress's return from Moscow, where her Imperial Majesty and her Ministers may probably get some farther insight into the transactions of the rebellion."
From Lord Mansfield, Charles Jenkinson, Stuart Mackenzie, and Lord Bute, Good Lord deliver us!
No less than 10,000l. per annum have been given in pensions on the Irish establishment, since Lord Harcourt went over. The revenue of England and Ireland is more than half consumed in enormous pensions to undeserving men, and large salaries for useless offices. The trade of both countries is oppressed with very heavy duties, to support this scandalous profusion. And the fact now is, that the annual pay of the establishment exceeds the annual income; and instead of their being any probable prospect of increasing the income, there is a certain one of its being very much diminished, if not nearly annihilated, by the stoppage of all trade with America. And why is all this? Because the juncto will not let the King have an able, honest Minister; because he shall preserve, against the wishes of all his people, a set of poor tools in office, who are devoted to their purposes and designs.
The fluctuating resolutions of the Ministry on American affairs would be perfectly ridiculous, were not the subject too serious for pleasantry. One hour they will submit, the next hour they will not. Fresh from the pillow, and but just awake, with the terror of last night's dreams still upon them, ask what is to be done with America; and the answer is, we must make terms as well as we can. Before noon another dose is given them by the juncto's physicians, Sir F. Barnard, Governor Hutchinson. Mess. Mauduit and Knox, and then the Ministers are stout again. Thus this miserable farce is now playing. The trick has long been too palpable not to be discovered. It is too well known to be concealed. The misfortune is, that while these puppets are dancing the Scotch tunes, the English merchants and traders pay the piper.
Our fellow subjects in America have now exhausted every peaceable means of obtaining redress. For seven years they have been incessantly complaining of their grie-

vances, and imploring relief. The return has been invariably a repetition of injuries, aggravated by the most intolerable insults. There has not been a single instance, in which they have complained, without being reproached; or in which they have been complained against, without being condemned. Their next measures will bring something more than petitions to the Throne, or remonstrances to Parliament.
The unanimity of the American Congress, the moderation of their demands, and the firmness of their resolves, have confounded the Ministry, and struck their advocates dumb. The Barnard's, Hutchinson's, Knox's, and Mauduit's, who have been constantly representing the opposition in America as a contemptible faction, aiming at a dissolution of all dependence on this country, and destruction of the acts of trade and navigation, are now discovered to be false and malicious incendiaries.
It seems to be the opinion of all real lovers of their country, that nothing will heal the unhappy divisions between this country but calling forth Lord Chatham and his friends; who, having equally the confidence of both countries, are most likely to reconcile them.
We hear that a subscription is soon to be opened, under very respectable patronage, for the inhabitants of Boston, who are bravely suffering all the rigours of a siege, in opposition to arbitrary power.
The people of England are satisfied that the liberties of America and of England are one, and therefore that to resist the invasion of them is a common cause.
A plain-speaking man told a Minister that the French had better intelligence about American affairs than the King's servants. How can that be, replied the Minister? Because, said the other, they hear every one, and are in search of the truth.
The vacant ribband, we are well informed, is promised to General Gage.
Extract from a new book entitled POLITICAL DISQUISITIONS.
The author argues not in any courtly strain, but with freedom and honesty. In the fifth chapter of the first book are some very free and spirited observations on the enormous emoluments annexed to our great offices of the state, as being pregnant with every evil. He would have Kings and Ministers, and officers of state, to remember, that, whatever dignity or majesty they may suppose necessarily connected with their stations, they are in fact only the servants of the publick, and are entitled to honour and external advantages according to the endeavours they use to secure and advance the publick interest and happiness. When magistrates, supreme or subordinate, manifest that they have this at heart, they will hardly fail of obtaining the respect, affection, and cheerful support of the subject; but should it ever appear that government is a mere state trick, a system of cunning, evasion, and deceit, directly tending to oppress and enslave the people, in order to maintain the splendour, extravagance, and luxury of a few, in such circumstances, can it be wonderful if those who are at the helm should sink even into contempt and hatred?
The following paragraph may appear, like many others in this volume, severe; how far it may be just, let truth and fact determine:
"The pretence that a King ought to have a number of attendants about him, to keep up his state, and strike the people with an awe of government, wants no answer. Was ever the parade of government kept up at a higher expense than in our times? Was ever government more despised by the subjects than ours is now? Compare our times with those of Queen Elizabeth, who refused supplies when offered her, saying, the money was as well in the people's pockets as in her's, till she came to want it."
The general purport of the intentions of the American Congress has been known in England for some weeks; but Lord
North choosing to shut his eyes, and not discover any thing from the temper and perseverance of that patriotick corps, affected to assure his friends that he knew the members of that body would quarrel among themselves, and the meeting break up in disorder. The event of their united and spirited determinations is a pretty strong proof of the Minister's foresight and knowledge.
It is said a great law Lord declared, in his place, that were he an American, he would resist the present measures to the last drop of his blood.
We are assured, from undoubted authority, that no less a sum than 10,000 l. per annum is saddled this year in annual pensions on the Irish establishment.
It is now evident, from the most favourable computations, that our going to war with America will not be less to us, computing what we must spend, and what we must lose, than fourteen millions per annum.
It appears, by the customhouse books, that the amount of the duty on Portugal wines, imported into this kingdom the last year, has decreased 18,000 l.
A letter from Leipzick says: "We have an account from Erford, a city six miles off, that a convent of Benedictines, and a castle on a hill two miles distant, were swallowed up with an astonishing noise, without any earthquake. The persons in both escaped, as soon as the foundations began to sink."
The letters of the American Congress, written with so much spirit, sound reason, and true knowledge of the constitution, have given more real uneasiness to Administration than all the other proceedings of the Congress.
Notwithstanding the reports of factious men, Lord North is still firmly resolved to maintain the just supremacy of Great Britain over her colonies.
It is a transaction worthy of remark, that the inhabitants of the town of Boston, in New England, subscribed near 20,000 l. for supporting the Corsicans and their chief five years ago.
A change of the Ministry is now confidently talked of, to take place during the recess of Parliament; it is also said, that the late American acts will be repealed soon after the holidays, in case the Americans do not acquiesce in them before the Parliament meets. [There is not the least danger of that.]
Jan. 9. It is reported, that two Noblemen of distinguished abilities will speedily embark for America, by commission, in order to inquire into the grievances complained of, and on other matters of consequence.
Certain agents of France are at present very busy here in secretly enlisting recruits for the Irish brigades in the service of his Most Christian Majesty, and meet with great success in the environs of the metropolis.
By letters from Bristol, we are assured that a very large importation of wheat is expected there in a few weeks, the orders that have been sent to America and to the Baltick being more considerable than ever were known.
The remonstrance of the American Congress laments, in the most pathetick terms, that the defence of their dearest rights and liberties compels them to take such measures as must injure the merchants and manufacturers of Great Britain, and bring infinite distress upon their fellow subjects, to whom they are far from imputing the attempts made to enslave them, and which they are determined to resist at every hazard.
Yesterday se'night, at a place called Higson's Banks, on Leeds river, a young man was sent in a small boat, with a rope in his hand, in order to moor a vessel on the opposite shore; but going too near the large vessel, the boat was sucked under it, man and all, and he would undoubtedly have been drowned, had not a mastiff dog of his master's leaped after him, and dived for him, and brought him to the surface
by the hair of his head, when, as he was a good swimmer, he soon got to shore. What is farther remarkable, as soon as the dog found there was no more occasion for him, he quitted his hold, and took care of himself.
When the late Mr. Mossop died, only one penny was found in his pocket, on which it was proposed by some friends to raise a subscription for his burial. Mr. Garrick hearing of it, generously stopped it, and proposed burying him at his own expense; however, being informed the deceased had an uncle, out of delicacy he first wrote to him, who took the charge out of Mr. Garrick's hand, and buried him himself.
Mr. Mossop, the player, lately deceased, came on the stage about the same time as Mr. Ross; the first was educated at Dublin, the other at Westminster. The great applause bestowed on each, by their particular friends, gave birth to the following epigram:
At Westminster they cry Ross up, At Dublin they cry Mossop; But it is not the test Of which is the best, But which is the worst is a toss-up.
On Thursday last was killed at Keswick a cow that was bred and grazed by Mr. John Hodgson, at the Queen's Head there, which weighed 14 stone per quarter, and had 10 stone of tallow taken out of her, 16 lb. to the stone. What is most remarkable, she was only 5 years old, and was within 12 weeks of calving her fourth calf, never had but one at a time, and was milked to the latter end of August last.
Jan. 14. We have it from respectable authority, that the substance of the petition transmitted from the American Congress to a great personage is, 1st, acknowledging in the most dutiful and respectful terms their allegiance, &c. 2d, that they might be left to the entire provision of their internal policy, such as the appointment of their officers, the making their own laws, and imposing their own duties, &c. 3d, that in lieu of this they are willing, in time of war, to supply his Majesty with men, money, and what other assessments a British Parliament might think necessary for the general defence of the empire. There are said to be a few other conciliating articles, of less consequence.
Extract of a letter from Bristol, Jan. 11.
"This day the society of merchant adventurers held a hall, to consider of a petition to Parliament respecting American affairs. The heads of a very unexceptionable commercial petition were read; and another hall is to be held on Monday, to determine on the question."
Extract of a letter from Paris, Jan. 2.
"On Christmas day, a promotion of Marshals of France was made; and the King hath elevated to that dignity the Duke de Choiseul, the Duke D'Aiguillon, the Prince de Beavau, and the Prince de Tingry."
"Monsieur and the Count D'Artois went last Saturday to the assembly of the Princes and Peers in Parliament. The sittings continued from ten in the morning till half past two in the afternoon. In this assembly, they conformed to the opinion of the Prince of Conti, to which Monsieur acceded, and which was, to make remonstrances to the King concerning the edicts registered at the bed of justice; and the King's council were charged to wait on the King, to know when his Majesty would be pleased to receive them."
Yesterday was tried, at the Old Bailey, the cause between Mr. Hart of Edinburgh, and David Main, whom he charged with having stolen an old steel watch chain, the stone of a small seal, and four small books. The counsel for Mr. Hart contended, that although these articles of impeachment were of too small value to occasion so expensive a prosecution, that Main was at said time suspected of having abstracted from Mr. Hart's bureau some confidential letters and papers, that were of great value to

his client, and he admitted that this was the real motive of the prosecution. There was nothing proved by Mr. Hart's witnesses that could support either of these charges against Main; and, upon Mr. Hart's being examined, he could not deny that the expense of the prosecution was bore by another person, although he very artfully attempted to evade this question. The evidence for Main was very consistent, and proved that there could have been no felonious intention. In the course of this trial, which lasted four hours, it clearly appeared that the prosecution was carried on with a view to serve some private political ends. The jury, without going out of court, returned a verdict acquitting Main of every part of the indictment; and the court testified that humanity for which this nation is so justly distinguished by the most universal joy, and the loudest claps of approbation. The trial was taken down in short hand, and soon will be published. Extract of a letter from Carthagena, dated December 15.
"By letters from Melille, of the 9th instant, we learn that the King of Morocco appeared in person at the head of his army before that place on the 8th in the morning; that he immediately occupied the eminencies, and the day following began to throw some bombs into the town, but at so great a distance as to be of no effect."
"We know not yet the quantity or the calibre of his artillery, of which we have not hitherto seen any but eight or ten pieces of cannon, of about six or eight pounders; and if he has not any larger for making this siege, he will probably fail in his enterprise."
Jan. 16. Yesterday a messenger arrived with some despatches from Sir Joseph Yorke, at the Hague, which were sent to his Majesty at the Queen's palace; and this morning Count Welderen had a conference with his Majesty, and Lord Rochford, on the subject of the above despatches.
This morning Colonel Prescott, lately arrived from Boston, in New England, had the honour of a conference with his Majesty, at the Queen's palace; he was attended by the Earl of Dartmouth.
Accounts are received this day of the loss of the Huntingdon East Indiaman, Capt. Pigou, off the island of Johanna.
The palace of Pizzerni in Italy, situated on the river Bointa, was lately consumed; the loss sustained is estimated at upwards of 200,000l.
EDINBURGH, Jan. 13. On Wednesday there was a meeting of the traders of Glasgow, who subscribed a petition to Parliament relative to the American affairs.
We hear that the merchants of Glasgow have resolved to send two of their number to London, to inquire into the facts relative to the American disputes, and to consult what is proper for them to do at this important crisis.
Last week application was made to the Court of Session, on the part of Mr. Dodsley, bookseller in London, against certain printers and booksellers in Edinburgh, who had printed an edition of Lord Chesterfield's letters. Mr. Dodsley alledged, that he had paid 1500l. for the copy right of that book, and that his edition was printed contrary to the statute of Queen Anne, and therefore praying that the sale might be stopped for ten days, till Mr. Dodsley had time to produce his title. It was answered, that the statute of Queen Anne only gives a right to authors and their assigns, and that this copy right had never been assigned to Mr. Dodsley by Lord Chesterfield. The court were pleased to grant a silt to stop the sale for ten days, upon Mr. Dodsley's giving security for 500l. to pay any damages that might be sustained by the sale of the book being stopped.
Mr. Digges is arrived from Dublin, and is to open the Theatre Royal here next Thursday.
From the CALEDONIAN MERCURY. To the merchants and manufacturers of GLASGOW, concerned in the American trade.
GENTLEMEN, THE present dispute between the Ministry and our Colonies, with its fatal consequences to the trade and manufactures of Great Britain, hath, at last, roused the English merchants trading to America. They have come to a resolution of petitioning Parliament to put an end to this most unnatural contest, by a repeal of the unnecessary and oppressive acts passed last session, which seem to have been dictated by a spirit of despotism, and ought to have been opposed at the time they were brought in; but a torpid indifference appears then to have taken place throughout the nation. However, it is hoped, by every friend to the commerce and manufactures of these kingdoms, that by the spirited application of the whole trading interest the desirable end will now be attained. The Ministry must see their error, and affairs will be restored to their former state. I dare venture to affirm (whatever has been alledged to the contrary) that America has many friends among you, and that you will most heartily join in the present application to Parliament, for the preservation of our commerce and your own credit; for you must be convinced, that if your American trade be interrupted, for a few months only, it must prove the ruin of your trading city, an event that would involve all Scotland in its consequences. I am, Gentlemen, your humble servant,
MERCATOR.
NEW YORK, March 9. CAPTAIN Thomas Cunningham, of the schooner Hope, lately from Cape Nichola Mole, informs, that being in distress, having lost his main and both topmasts, his boat, one man, and every thing off the deck, on the 13th of December last he put into that place, when there were then lying above 70 sail of English vessels from the different British colonies, none of which would give him the least assistance, because he belonged to New York, which they all considered as having deserted the publick cause, in not adopting the measures recommended by the Congress. That in this distress he lay 14 days without a boat or any assistance, till two Captains of vessels belonging to New London, from personal acquaintance, generously gave him the necessary relief, but often expressed the highest resentment against New York, for deserting the other colonies in the common cause. Capt. Cunningham farther says, that though there were many boats to be sold among the vessels, he could by no means procure one of them, though in the greatest want; and several vessels which were intended for New York, through resentment, had altered their voyage.
On Friday evening last a number of persons, who disapproved of the proposal made by the committee for this city and county, in their advertisement published March 2d, met at the house of the Widow De La Montagnie, and after choosing Mr. JOHN THURMAN chairman, proposed attempting to get the business intended for last Monday (viz. the choice of persons to meet the Deputies from the counties, for the purpose of choosing Delegates for the next Congress) postponed until the 20th of April; and published a hand-bill, desiring those who were of their sentiments to meet them there on Monday the 6th instant, at 10 o'clock, and proceed from thence to the Exchange.
A number of the friends of constitutional liberty, hearing of this manœuvre, and apprehending a scheme was on foot to defeat the design of sending Delegates to the Congress, met on the next evening, and determined to support the committee, of whose virtue and patriotism we have had ample experience. At the close of the meeting, a Gentleman having informed the company, that the owners of the ship Beulah (some time since arrived from Lon-
don) had not performed their promise of sending her back, and that therefore the committee's boat had left her, about 300 citizens unanimously determined to wait upon the owners, to know why the Beulah had not sailed, and required the Captain's repairing immediately on board his ship, then lying at the Watering Place, in order to her departure with the first fair wind. This service was effectually performed, and next day the vessel fell down to the Hook, from whence she put to sea on Tuesday last.
Early on Monday morning preparations were made for the meeting at the Exchange. An Union flag, with a red field, was hoisted on the Liberty Pole, where, at nine o'clock, the friends of freedom assembled, and having got in proper readiness, about eleven o'clock the body began their march to the Exchange. They were attended by musick; and two standard bearers carried a large Union flag, with a blue field, on which were the following inscriptions. On one side, George III. Rex, and the Liberties of America; no Popery. On the other, The Union of the Colonies, and the Measures of the Congress. Some time after they had arrived at the Exchange, came also the other company who had met at the widow De La Montagnie's, among whom where some officers of the army and navy, several of his Majesty's Council, and those members of the House of Representatives who had refused taking into consideration the proceedings of the Congress, together with officers of the customs, and other dependents on the Court, &c. Soon after the parties met some confusion arose, but subsided without any bad consequences. The chairman of the committee then proceeded to explain the design of the meeting, after which he proposed the following questions, viz.
First question. Whether a certain number of persons shall be appointed and authorised to meet such Deputies as the counties may elect, and join with them for the sole purpose of appointing out of their body, on the 20th of April next, Delegates for the next Congress?
Second question. Whether this meeting will authorise the committee to nominate eleven Deputies, for their approbation? Both which were carried in the affirmative. The meeting, and the majority which determined the questions, are supposed to have been the most numerous and respectable ever known in this city on the decision of any publick proposal. The business of the day being finished, the friends of freedom paraded through one of the principal streets of the city to the Liberty Pole, and there dispersed, in the most quiet and orderly manner.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
WANTED immediately, two vessels, one of 3, the other of 5000 bushels burthen, the former for Boston, the latter for Britain. Inquire of the Printer.
WILLIAMSBURG, March 31, 1775. I NTEND to leave the colony soon. ARCHIBALD WILLIAMSON.
*** All persons indebted to Mr. Patrick Telfer, merchant in Glasgow, are earnestly requested to make speedy payment, to Benjamin Waller, Esq; of this city, who is fully empowered to grant sufficient discharges.
JOHN LAMB, HOUSE CARPENTER and JOINER, B EGS leave to inform the publick that he carries on the said business on his own account, and that it shall be his constant study, in prosecuting the different branches of the same, to give satisfaction to all who may please to employ him.
Williamsburg, March 28, 1775.
TAKEN up, in Spotylvania , a red STEER about three years old, marked with a crop and slit in each ear, and an under-keel in the left. Potted and appraised to 21. 2s. 6d. ANDREW MOWERY.

PETERSBURG, March 25, 1775.
THE subscriber has for sale a quantity of Russia drillings and sheetings, a few boxes of sagathies and duroys sorted, with trimmings, and a parcel of narrow hoes, which he will dispose at a moderate advance, for ready money, or short credit. Also Barbados and Northward rum, muscovado sugar, molosses, bar iron, coffee, and white ginger, on reasonable terms.
2 EMANUEL WALKER.
MERRY TOM
IN high perfection, stands at my house to cover mares at 20s. a leap, 50s. the season, or 3l. 10s. to ensure. He and his colts are so well known, that a description of them is unnecessary. Good pasturage for the mares gratis, but I will not be answerable should any be stolen or get away, although the greatest care shall be taken to prevent it.
JOHN BAIRD.
APPAMATTOX, GRUNCROFT,
March 24, 1775.
OSCAR
STANDS at my house, near Petersburg , and will cover mares from this time till the end of the season, at a pistole the single leap, the money to be paid down; or three pistoles, payable in October , for the season. He is a horse of great size and activity, a fine sorrel, and in high order.
" He was got by young Snip , his dam by Lord Morton's Arabian , his granddam by old Crab , his great granddam by the bald Galloway , his great great granddam by Dailey's Arabian , out of bay Bolton's dam.
JOHN BANISTER.
For S A L E,
A NEW BRIG, burthen about 115 Tuns, now on the stocks, and ready for launching. Her upper timbers are altogether of black walnut, cedar, locust, and mulberry. The terms of sale will be made known to any person inclining to purchase, by applying to the steward at Stratford , the seat of the late Honourable Philip Ludwell Lee , Esq; in Westmoreland county.
FIVE POUNDS REWARD.
RUNAWAY from the subscriber, the 9th of February , a Scotch servant man, named ALEXANDER NORRIS , by trade a house carpenter; had on, when he went away, a brown coat much worn, a green waistcoat, and a pair of black stocking breeches. It is supposed he went to James river , or Norfolk , as he was seen at Aquia inquiring the way to Fredricksburg . Whoever brings the said servant to me, in Dumfries , shall have the above reward.
REGINALD GRAHAM.
TAKEN up, in Buckingham , a bay MARE about four feet six inches high, a star in her forehead, a long mane which hangs on the left side, sprig tail, trots and paces, has no brand perceivable, and appears by her feet not to have been used last summer. She had with her a bay horse COLT with a large star in his forehead, a long tail, and his mane hangs on the right side, but has no brand to be seen. Posted and appraised, the mare to 9l. 10s. and the colt to 3l. JOHN WHITE.
TAKEN up, in Orange , a black HORSE about six years old, four feet three inches and a half high, a few white hairs in his forehead, a white spot above his tail, a cut mane and switch tail, has been broke down in his left hind foot, paces well, but has no perceivable brand. Posted, and appraised to 5l.
JOSEPH SMITH.
KING WILLIAM, March 23, 1775.
I INTEND to leave the colony for a few months. JOHN G. FRAZER.
To be SOLD, on the 13th of April, at the late dwelling plantation of Col. Burges Smith , deceased, in Lancaster county.
TWENTY FIVE choice Virginia born SLAVES, consisting of men, women, and children, among which is an extraordinary good blacksmith, who also understands boat building, an elegant new chariot, and harness for four horses, to drive with or without a box, all the household and kitchen furniture, the stocks of cattle, sheep and hogs, several horses, about fifty barrels of Indian corn, fifty bushels of wheat, and a few hlds. of tobacco. Credit till the 10th day of May 1776, giving bond and approved security, to bear interest from the date, if not then punctually discharged. All persons having demands against the said estate are requested to give them in, before the day of sale, properly authenticated, specifying the dignity thereof.
PHILIP SMITH,
2 BURGES BALL,
Adm.
THOMAS B. GRIFFIN,
For S A L E,
THE high blooded horse DOTTEREL . He is full fifteen hands three inches high, and remarkable for the strength and beauty of his form, being in every respect worthy of his high descent, which is from the best stock in England , as may be seen by his pedigree in the hand writing, and signed by, Sir John Pennington , who bred him. The Gentlemen of the turf are well acquainted with Dotterel's performances in Great Britain , and that he was esteemed the swiftest horse in England , Eclipse excepted. He is remarkable sure for getting colts, and they are uncommonly beautiful, and fit for the turf or the road. The above mentioned pedigree may be seen, and the terms of sale made known, to any person inclined to purchase, by applying to the steward at Stratford , the seat of the late Honourable Philip Ludwell Lee , Esq; in Westmoreland county.
ALL persons are hereby forbid hunting, or ranging, on the lands of Samuel Martin , Esq; or Col. Lewis Burwell Martin , in the counties of Goochland and Albemarle . 2||
REGULUS
STANDS at my plantation in Chesterfield county, near the falls of James river , and will cover mares at 20s. a leap, or 3l. the season. Pasturage gratis, but I will not be liable for any that may be stolen, or get away.
2
DAVID PATTESON.
THREE months ago I purchased, from the executors of Littlebury Hardiman , a negro woman named RACHEL , formerly Mr. Hardiman's cook, since which I have not seen her. I am informed she has a husband at one of Col. Carter's quarters on James river , through whose benevolence I imagine she is now harboured. Whoever brings her to me, at Drummond's Neck , near Cowles's ferry, shall receive 30s. or 20s. if conveyed to Charles City prison. I am determined not to dispose of her, and will sue any person who entertains her. 6 JOHN AYLETT.
TAKEN up, in Culpeper , a middle sized red Cow, with some white on her rump and belly, branded on each horn IWH, and on the hip with something resembling a W. She had with her a cow CALF, near the same colour, with a star in its forehead. Posted and appraised, the cow and calf, to 2l. 7s. 6d.
||
ELIZABETH POLLAD.
S L O E
WILL begin to cover on the first day of April , at my farm near York , for 10s. a leap, or 40s. the season. There will be a pasture for the mares, and great care taken of them, but I cannot be answerable for any that may stray. As it will be inconvenient to collect so small a sum from each individual, it is expected that the money shall be sent with the mares, or they will not be received.
THOMAS NELSON, Junior.
FIFTY VERY LIKELY
S L A V E S
Among them some valuable tradesmen, will be sold at Richmond fair, for ready money, by the SHERIFF of King William county. ||
TAKEN up, in Prince William , a middle sized BULL, four years old, with a white face, a white list down his back and belly, the other part red, marked with a crop and slit in the left ear, and a half spade on the under side of the right ear. Posted, and appraised to 30s.
HENRY HOLECLOUGH.
TAKEN up, in Brunswick , a small bay Horse about ten years old, four feet one inch high, some white hairs in his forehead, is hip-shot, and branded on the near buttock S. Posted, and appraised to 40s. ALEXANDER WATSON.
To be S O L D,
SUNDRY LOTS in the town of Blandford , one of which has a good dwelling-house upon it, with three rooms below and two above, a good cellar, all convenient outhouses, and a garden. The others are unimproved, but very good situations. Likewise a tract of LAND in the county of Amherst , containing 1100 acres. It is exceeding fine tobacco land, and in good order for cropping, with all necessary houses upon it. This land may be seen by applying to Mr. William Lee , who lives in the county, and the terms made known by applying to Mr. John Baird , merchant in Blandford , or the subscriber. 4|| ALEXANDER GORDON.
For S A L E,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, near Newmarket , containing about 3000 acres of well timbered land, having thereon two plantations, in good repair, with proper and convenient edifices for farming, or making tobacco. For terms apply to the subscriber. (tf) JOHN BAYLOR.
For S A L E,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, contiguous to Mattaponi , 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)
To be LET upon easy RENTS, for lives,
A QUANTITY of LAND in Warwick county, in small parcels; the houses to be built, and improvements made, either by the subscriber or the leasor, as may be agreed on.
W. M. CARY.
WILLIAMSBURG, March 8, 1775.
LENT to some of my acquaintances in this city, The Country Cousins , and The Memoirs of Count de Forbes . The favour will be gratefully acknowledged, if the person, in whose possession the above mentioned books are, would be so obliging as to send them to
4||
WILLIAM DAWSON.
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.

FROM THE EDINBURGH ADVERTISER.
I MUST begin this letter with declaring that I am not an American, that I have not, nor ever shall have, any connexion with America, and that I am not acquainted with one person of that country. Surely then I may be allowed to be what I profess, impartial, disinterested, actuated only by the general good, and no farther concerned in the event than any other individual who, like me, stands on the brink of the gulf open to swallow us all.
I will not enter into the question of the right of taxation of America by Great Britain. Whether it exists or not is totally immaterial. I mean to offer to your consideration only the expedience of using force on this occasion. Let schoolmen, divines, and lawyers, split ideas, in infinitum, and lose themselves in endless mazes of abstraction; but let the politician adhere to expedience, necessity, and advantage. Quid verum atque utile, curat atque rogat, et in hoc solo sit. How far this utile can be obtained by carrying red-hot war into the bosom of America, will, I think, appear if I may be allowed parva componere magnis , and to bring the idea home to every man, by supposing a case similar and familiar to us all. Let me then imagine a person possessed of a landed estate of 10,000l. a year, having on it one farm, the rent of which does not produce to the landlord more than 100l. a year, but which, by the peculiarity of its circumstances and situation, is enabled to consume the product of the other parts. Let me suppose the landlord finding an old title to an additional charge on this farm of 5l. a year, and claiming a right to levy, by a mode of his own, this sum. This right the tenant denying, a suit at law is commenced, which by its numerous quirks and delays shall protract the decision for ten years, during which term the landlord does not receive his rent. The tenant, ruined by expenses, cannot support his manufacturers, who, not calling for supplies from the other parts of the estate, the labourers first, then the farmers, are ruined; so that when the decree comes for the landlord, if such decree ever shall come, he finds himself legally authorised to receive his 5l. additional rent, but the means to pay that 5l. the 100l. per annum, and the 9900l. per annum, are gone, his estate depopulated and waste, and himself and all his other tenants beggars and undone. If this conduct must by all mankind be deemed the extravagance of folly in a private man, what must it be in the supposed enlightened Minister of a nation?
Is it not a truth, a serious dreadful truth, that our victories, our acquisitions, and our consequential taxes, have raised the price of commodities, by raising the price of labour to that height that we are undersold in every market in the world but in those of our colonies, where we have kept an exclusive right. Would people in their senses wantonly throw away this right, and leave themselves no market at all? Is it not a truth, that without trade this country may be a province of some empire, not an empire sole, great, and by itself? Is it not a truth, that a war with America bars all the avenues to, and means of, this trade? And is it not a truth, that the men who make this war, who have set their fortunes on a cast, and must abide the hazard of the die, should with their heads pay the forfeit due to their country?
My friends, I do not endeavour to mislead your understanding; I only wish to open your eyes. Compare, reason, judge for yourselves, and your decision must be right. Englishmen cannot long be kept in the dark, nor duped to betray themselves, their posterity, and their country. Eng-
lishmen, jealous to distraction of their own invaluable liberties, will not be led wantonly to trample upon those of their fellow subjects, in whatever part of the globe they may happen to be born or placed.
WILLIAMSBURG, March 31.
LAST Tuesday his Excellency the Governor issued a proclamation to the following purpose: "Whereas certain persons, styling themselves Delegates of several of his Majesty's colonies in America , having presumed, without his Majesty's authority or consent, to assemble together at Philadelphia, in the months of September and October last, have thought fit, among other unwarrantable proceedings, to resolve that it will be necessary that another Congress should be held at the same place, on the 10th of May next, unless redress of certain pretended grievances be obtained before that time, and to recommend that all the colonies in North America should choose deputies to attend such Congress, I am commanded by the King, and I do accordingly issue this my proclamation, to require all magistrates, and other officers, to use their utmost endeavours to prevent any such appointments of deputies, and to exhort all persons whatever within this government to desist from such an unjustifiable proceeding, so highly displeasing to his Majesty."
Had the above proclamation made its appearance but a day sooner, it very probably would have been honoured with some strictures from the Delegates of the people, who were convened in Provincial Congress at Richmond, and broke up the 27th late in the afternoon, after going through the very important and weighty business that came before them, which shall be published in this Gazette entire.
A Gentleman has just received a letter from his correspondent in London, dated the 28th of December, which advises, "that things began to wear a very different aspect since his last, and that all hopes of an accommodation were at an end, the Ministry being determined to enforce the acts; and recommending it to the people of America to look to themselves, and be prepared against all events." "This account seems to be too well grounded, if, as we are informed, the letters which accompanied his Majesty's late instructions to the Governor, for preventing any farther appointment of deputies to meet in General Congress, be written subsequent to the Parliament's meeting after the holidays.
A report has been for some time current, that the troops at Boston under General Gage are to be sent home, with all the Crown officers in America, and that the several colonies are to be blocked up by sea; with the view, it is to be presumed, to frighten us into compliance with the tyrannical acts of the British Parliament, by creating dissensions and divisions amongst us. It is to be hoped, however, that, in spite of all our open and secret enemies, the people will have virtue and sense enough to baffle any such designs of the Ministry, by recurring to the old Dutch motto, United we stand, by dividing we fall , and thereby preserve their dearest rights and privileges, a deprivation of which would reduce them to a state of slavery, too horrible a sound to an American ear. The present times are certainly very inconvenient, and to be deprecated; but there is this consolation, that they cannot last long, if we but preserve our union. The conveniencies of life we have in abundance, and a proper attention to manufactures will clothe us all, in good homespun, preferable, many think, to foreign frippery and nonsense.
Deaths.] Captain JAMES GUNN of Richmond town, who served the Virginia regiment last war in that rank, and was esteemed a good officer.
*** METRIOTES, the Printer hopes, will be good enough to excuse his not publishing his piece of raillery. His reasons are, a scarcity of paper, and his unwillingness to embark in a dispute which took its origin elsewhere.
*** The printer begs leave to inform the Gentlemen of the late Convention, that he only received some part of their proceedings late last night, and the remainder this day at one o'clock. Although he publishes a supplement to this week's Gazette, he will strive, all in his power (with the assistance of his people, who are very desirous to recommend him to the publick favour, by their assiduity, &c.) to add another whole sheet, which shall contain the proceedings at large; and next week, by the post, and other opportunities, he shall send, to each member of the Convention, a number of copies of the same in a pamphlet, printed on good paper.
NORTH CAROLINA, Halifax county. AT a meeting of the committee for the county aforesaid, on the 21st of February 1775.
Present Willie Jones, chairman, Nicholas Long, Benjamin McCulloch, James Hogans, John Bradford, Egbert Haywood, Joseph John Williams, Willis Alston, Samuel Weldon, David Sumner, and Thomas Haynes.
The association signed by Mr. Andrew Miller, merchant, of Halifax, who some time since refused to sign, was produced and read; and thereupon it was moved that the resolution of the committee, formerly entered into, not to deal with Mr. Miller, should be rescinded.
Resolved unanimously, that the same be, and it is hereby, rescinded; and this committee now declare their constituents, and themselves, at full liberty to deal and transact business of every kind with Mr. Miller, or any persons acting for or in partnership with him.
Published by order.
O. DAVIS, Clerk.
At a meeting of the committee for Goochland county, on the 11th day of Feb. 1775.
CAPTAIN William Harrison appeared, and informed the committee, that himself and Mr. James Riddle, being both managers in Samuel Martin's estate in the said county, had just received by the ship Assistance several parcels of goods, and praying that the same might be sold in conformity to the 10th resolution of the General Congress.
Resolved, that the said goods be sold by the package, for ready money only, and that the money arising from the sale thereof be applied agreeable to the said resolution.
Prime cost and charges of the above mentioned goods, thirty five pounds, eighteen shillings, and ten pence.
Goods sold for, thirty six pounds, eleven shillings, and two pence halfpenny.
Balance, twelve shillings, and four pence halfpenny.
By order of the committee.
GEORGE UNDERWOOD, Clerk.
Mr. PURDIE,
I CANNOT help lamenting that our acting G***** should be at so great a distance from us as New Hampshire, for I can attribute to nothing else the keeping back a certain proclamation, to which alone it must be owing that the good people of this colony have done a thing so disagreeable to his Majesty as the choosing deputies to represent them in Congress in May next, unless redress of certain pretended grievances be obtained before that time.
N. G.
This Paper shows as much of the spirit of Freedom existing in Scotland, as in America. The Author is plainly impartial, having no connexion with America.

NORTHAMPTON, March 26, 1775.
VIRGINIANS , the following is meant for you as a caution, which is worthy of your strict attention. On Tuesday the 22d instant, the Schooner Magdalen, commanded by Capt. Henry Collins, came to about three miles in the bay, off Hungars harbour, upon which the boat was immediately despatched to search a sloop belonging to Mr. B***, then loading with oats and corn, and had on board besides two hhds. of molasses that had been legally imported, and a proper sufferance obtained from the C---m--se to permit her to load; all which being shewn to the officer, he appeared to be satisfied, and then returned on board the Magdalen. But in the night several men stole clandestinely on board the sloop, and there concealed themselves till next day about twelve o'clock, when they hoisted a signal of distress; which alarming Mr. B***, he immediately sent off one of his apprentices to know the cause. The boy no sooner got on board than the men there concealed jumped up and immediately seized the apprentice, and carried him off to the Magdalen, and there detained him till the next day at one o'clock, when they brought him on board the sloop, and carried both off. I forgot to have mentioned, that some time on Tuesday night they went on board the sloop and carried off a small apprentice boy, and kept him on board the Magdalen till the next day. They threatened him, and promised him a reward of twenty dollars if he would inform them where they might find any of the sloop's crew. They made use of every artifice to extort a confession from him about what they so earnestly desired to be informed in; and at last, as an extraordinary mark of his munificence, Capt. Collins gave him liberally two shillings.
This is a plain representation of the conduct of the officers and men on board the Schooner Magdalen! Pusillanimous and dastardly! Why did not Capt. Collins, to whom Mr. B*** had sent his compliments to come ashore and dine with him, why did he not go and tell Mr. B*** that he had information against his vessel, and should seize her? No he sculked in his vessel, and would not be seen. The nature of the action may be always known from the conduct of the Agent. What a man is ashamed of he will decline appearing in; an infamous cause even Capt. Collins was ashamed of, and therefore would not appear, but left the management of the business to his inferiours in infamy.
S A L E M , March 7.
THE South Carolina Provincial Congress have made choice of their former delegates, viz: H. Middleton, T. Lynch, C. Gadsden, J. Rutledge, and E. Rutledge, Esquires, to attend the Continental Congress in May next.
Last Saturday Captain Benjamin West arrived here, and the next day Captain Pearson arrived at Cape Anne, both from St. Eustatia. They inform us, that on the 9th of February a whaling vessel belonging to Nantucket arrived at St. Eustatia, from Antigua, the master of which (who appeared to be an honest intelligent person) asserted, that on the 7th, just before he failed, a ship from Liverpool arrived at Antigua, in about 30 days passage; that he went on board her before she anchored, and on asking the Captain what news he brought, was answered, "the Parliament is dissolved." The OLD Parliament, says the whaler; no, says the Captain, the NEW. On the whaler's asking the occasion of the Parliament's being dissolved, he was told that it was owing to their opposing the King's measures. This intelligence was confirmed by four or five passengers.
We have inserted the above extraordinary intelligence just as we heard it related. We only add that the two Captains agree
in their accounts, and that the news occasioned great speculation at Antigua.
Col. Leslie's ridiculous expedition on the 26th ult. occasioned such an alarm that the people of all the neighbouring towns, as well as those of 30 and 40 miles distant, were mustering, and great numbers actually on their march for this place; so that it is thought not less than 12 or 15,000 men would have been assembled in this town within 24 hours after the alarm, had not the precipitate retreat of the troops from the drawbridge prevented it.
N E W Y O R K , March 16.
I N our last, we gave a short account of the proceedings of this city and county, on Monday the 6th instant, when, by a very great majority, the following mode of proceeding was assented to, viz. that the General Committee should nominate eleven persons, to be, on Wednesday the 15th, proposed to the choice of the free-men and freeholders as deputies to meet, on the 20th of April, such deputies as the other counties might elect, and join with them, for the sole purpose of appointing, out of their body, Delegates for the next General Congress agreeable to the recommendation of the last. Accordingly the committee nominated the following persons, viz. Philip Livingston, John Jay, James Duane, John Alsop, Isaac Low, Francis Lewis, Abraham Walton, Abraham Brasher, Alexander M'Dougal, Leonard Lispenard, and Isaac Roosevelt.
From the time of the nomination, every artifice was used (by the same party who have constantly exerted their utmost abilities to obstruct and disconcert every measure of opposition to the tyrannical acts of the British Ministry) in order to prevent the election of the deputies nominated by the committee, and to frustrate the design of a Provincial Congress; and of sending Delegates (at least with full powers from the whole province) to the next General Congress. Before the day of election, a great number of pieces were published on both sides; full of artifice and specious pretences on the ministerial part, and of sound weighty argument on the other. Between the two, the argument, and the views of each party, were pretty well understood at the day of decision, when the votes of the freemen and freeholders were fairly taken, as follows, viz. For the deputies 825, against them 163; besides great numbers of the majority, who, finding their votes not wanted, did not vote.
It is hoped the transactions of this day will, in some measure, restore the generality of the people to the good opinion and esteem of the neighbouring colonies.
Thursday last the General Assembly of this province voted the sum of 4000l. towards rebuilding our Hospital, that was burnt down on Tuesday the 28th ult.
We hear that South Carolina has proscribed Georgia, and interdicted their inhabitants from trading with that province.
It was reported amongst the military Gentlemen in England, that the troops intended for America would be accompanied by the Generals Mackay and Howe.
His Excellency our worthy Governor was, from the accounts received by the packet, in a bad state of health at Bath; and all the American Governors were ordered to their several departments, it was imagined, if Mr. Tryon should not be soon recovered, that another Gentleman would be appointed to the administration of the government of this province, and that the Hon. William Henry Lyttleton, Esq; late Governor of South Carolina, and Jamaica, was talked of to succeed Mr. Tryon.
PHILADELPHIA , March 20.
O N Thursday the 16th instant, according to the notice given in our last, the subscribers towards a fund for establish-
ing an American manufactor of woollens, linens, and cottons, met in Carpenters Hall to consider a plan for carrying the same into execution. A President being chosen, he opened the business of the day with a sensible and elegant speech, pointing out the advantages of establishing the aforesaid manufactories in this country. The company afterwards proceeded to the election of officers, when the following Gentlemen were chosen: Treasurer, Joseph Stiles; Secretary, James Cannon; Managers, Christopher Marshall, Richard Humpheys, Jacob Winey, Isaac Gray, Samuel Wetherill, jun. Christopher Ludwick, Frederick Kuhl, Robert S. Jones, Richard Wells, Thomas Tilbury, James Popham, Isaac Howell.
The business of the day being finished, the company unanimously voted their thanks to the President, and requested that he would favour them with a copy of his speech for publication, which he politely consented to.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
The beautiful high bred chestnut horse
D A M O N
W ILL stand at my plantation in Gloucester county, the ensuing season, and will cover mares at 20s. the leap, or 4l. the season. He was got by Fearnought out of a full bred mare, and is five feet five inches high. The mares will meet with good pasturage gratis, but I will not be answerable for any that are lost.
MANN PAGE.
*** The money to be paid before the mares are taken away, or corn at 10s. per barrel.
WILLIAMSBURG , March 30, 1775.
THE Visitors and Governors of William and Mary College are desired to meet on Tuesday the 18th of April next.
By Order of the Rector.
MATTHEW DAVENPORT , Cl. Visit.
STOLEN from the subscriber, in Louisa , the 2d of February a large likely black MARE eight or nine years old, near five feet high, has a brown mouth, some saddle spots, carries lofty, paces and trots, had shoes on before, and is a pleasant hackney. Whoever secures her, so that I may get her again, shall have 40s. reward, and reasonable charges, paid by JOHN TODD.
THERE is now in my care at Col. Landon Carter's plantation, in York county, known by the name of Rippen Hall , a negro fellow named HARRY . He formerly belonged to Mr. Richard Booker , who sold him to Mr. Joseph Atkin , and by Mr. Atkin he was sold to Mr. Michael Little of North Carolina . As I was obliged, in taking the said negro, to shoot him, and have been at a good deal of expense in having him cured, I should be glad the owner would apply for him as soon as possible, pay charges, and take him away.
WILLIAM JACKSON.
TAKEN up , in Bedford , a bay HORSE with a blaze face, appears to be old, four feet seven inches high, a scar on his side, and another on his breast, all his feet white, is newly shod, and branded on the near shoulder W . Posted, and appraised to 8l. || WILLIAM JONES.
TAKEN up , in Bedford , a black MARE about four feet seven inches high, has a small white spot on the near side of her nose, several saddle spots, paces naturally, had on a small bell, and branded on the near shoulder AB in a piece.---Also a bay HORSE COLT two years old this spring, and has some white down his face. Posted and appraised, the mare to 8l. and the colt to 4l. || JOHN HEBBER.