The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1775-06-17 00:00:00

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CONCLUSION of the DEBATES on the FISHERY BILL.
HE learned Lord (Lord Camden) having thus touched on the injustice of the act, and the impracticability of conquest, essayed to convince his noble auditory that it was wholly unnecessary; for, admitted the conquest certain, could we spare men and money sufficient for the maintenance of the colonies as so many subjugated provinces? Were there no appearances of a rupture with France and Spain? Foreign wars had been cautiously avoided; was a war with our colonies more justifiable on the principles of necessity? If the opinion of the Ministry was to be collected from their measures, the precipitation with which they entered into a war with America, would lead a nice observer to conclude that they thought it highly necessary. On the side of Administration not the smallest tendency to conciliatory measures had appeared. A noble Lord, in the other House, did but make a motion which carried the appearance of such intentions, and his troops were thrown into the utmost confusion; they were determined that an iota should be yielded. An illustrious personage, whose abilities were shining testimonies of the beneficence of providence to some peculiar favourites, a man to whom this country owed perhaps her existence, at any rate her greatness, and that pride of conquest (which now had precipitated her into wicked contentions for dominion) this great personage, after spending much time, thought, and deliberation, to form a plan that might happily reconcile the jarring interests of both countries, had proposed a bill which was not suffered to lay four and twenty hours on the table for consideration. The learned Lord only mentioned the circumstance, that the record of that day's debate might be expunged from the journals, and that history might give the lie to such an infamous transaction, if ever malice should transmit it to posterity.
Thus much for conciliatory plans, which were rejected as wholly incompatible with the complexional cast of the present measures. The learned Lord concluding therefore that war was determined on, closed his address in the following words: "As an Englishman I cannot with harm to my native country; but I with most sincerity that the Americans may preserve their liberty." Lord Sandwich, in reply, observed, that the facts which the evidence had been called to prove were simply these: That three thousand seamen were bred every year by the British Newfoundland fishery; that, consequently, in ten years, thirty thousand seamen were added to the maritime strength of this country; that this was an object of vast consequence, and if the New England fishery produced hardly any seamen it was too much to sacrifice the maritime strength of England to a people who had committed every outrage against the sovereign authority of this country. The noble Lord alledged, that it was illiberal to cavil at the evidence; Mr. Lister was a merchant of considerable consequence, and great respectability.
With regard to the impracticability of conquering America, the noble Lord who spoke last could not be serious when he questioned the power of Great Britain in this respect; so far from the inferiority of numbers, being any obstructions to success of the English troops, the contrary was the real fact, inferiority of numbers, however paradoxical it might seem, would accelerate success; there was a prodigious difference between disciplined troops and a multitudinous rabble; if matters should be pushed to extremity, the noble Lord, for his part, would wish, that one hundred thousand Americans should take the field, In preference to twenty thousand; the reason was this; troops must have subsistence, the greater number of troops, therefore, the greater will be the difficulty of procuring subsistence, and consequently the country people will suffer great distresses, which will soon lead them to seek that protection, from a legal government, which they fail to experience from anarchy and civil discord; thus the Americans would conquer themselves by eating up their country.
But was this not likely to be the case, the noble Lord had no sort of opinion of the bravery of the Americans; he thought them mere blusterers, who felt bold only in proportion as danger was at a distance, and when it approached would lay down their arms, or broom sticks, and run away. At the siege of Louisbourg a party of these brave Americans were employed, they talked of the wonderful feats they would perform, and compared themselves to Romans; but finding the place likely to make resistance, these Romans, very courageously, ran away. And thus they would do on every occasion if real danger approached, when, at a distance, they would bluster, resolve, write, protest, and look big.
With respect to taxation, the learned Lord who spoke last had cavilled at the person, who thought "taxation no tyranny." Lord Sandwich confessed he thought it no tyranny; "for, if it was a tyranny, the English were the most tyrannized over of any people under Heaven, for they were the most heavily taxed."
Lord Shelburne combated the bill thus. If it was meant as a bill to regulate the fishery, Parliamentary aid was totally unnecessary, the official powers annexed to the Admiralty department were quite sufficient; if the bill was not meant as a commercial regulation, it was foreign to the purpose to talk of the advantages that would accrue to the British Newfoundland fishery. Whenever the regulations of this or any other branch of commerce should come before that House, there was no doubt but that attention would be paid which the magnitude of the object required, but the noble Lord recollected a writer who compared the intricate mazes and meanderings of commerce to the multiplicity of almost imperceptible fibres, with which the body of man abounded. The circuitous course of trade it was impossible to trace through the several channels, it eluded the ken of the human intellect as
the finer fibres of the body defeated the explorations of the human sight; it required, therefore, the most accurate attention to obtain even a superficial knowledge of the one, the most diligent inspection to be tolerably conversant in the other.
With respect to the supposed advantages derivable from the British fishery, the noble Lord was not inclined to attribute those advantages so much to the fishery, considered as a branch of commerce in the abstract, as to certain practices adopted by the persons concerned in the fishery, with which Sir Hugh Palliser was intimately acquainted, thought it would have been highly indecorous to have pressed him on the subject.
The noble Earl paid the highest compliments to Sir Hugh Palliser, both as a commander and a most skilful navigator; in the latter capacity the noble Earl had tried him, during the time he had the honour to bear a part in the administration of this country. Sir Hugh had foiled de Guerchy in so many points, that the Frenchman had described him to be "dur comme mi Lord Chatham."
The noble Earl expressed his surprise that so much attention should now be paid to the Newfoundland fishery. Was it a greater object than at the time of passing the Canada bill? For by that bill the territories of Newfoundland were infringed, yet such infringement was not urged as the least objection to that bill. That the Newfoundland fishery merited the attention of Government was certain, for it was an object on which the Councils in King William's time employed their attention; and even so early as Charles II. the measures of that Prince were execrated, because they were fraught with such pernicious policy as to permit the French to share in the Newfoundland fishery. The regulations, therefore, of this fishery being in the Admiralty department, the present act was superfluous; but, if it was designed to coerce the Americans, time would discover whether the tide of popularity ran against the favourers or opposers of that, and other acts of a similar complexion.
Lord Suffolk in favour of the bill said, it was not meant entirely to deprive the New Englanders of their fishery; for the faith of Parliament would be pledged to restore the fishery the instant it should appear that the Americans had returned to their obedience.
Lord Radnor declared that he had never yet been able to make up his mind on the affairs of America, so as to give his vote on either side of the question; but what had led from the last noble Lord had determined him to give his voice against the bill. For, if the Newfoundland fishery was a most valuable branch of commerce to this nation he could not be persuaded to pledge his faith, as a Lord of Parliament, for the surrender of that trade to the Americans.
The Duke of Grafton, in reply to what fell from Lord Camden, said, it could not be expected that Lord Chatham's conciliatory bill should pass the House, as it struck at the repeal of no less than nine acts of Parliament, some of which were money bills. His Grace avowed himself the same strenuous friend of America, however appearances might be against him. He wished to see the period when the taxation of America would be dispensed with, as an amplitude of taxes included in their purchase of English manufactures.
Lord Abingdon said, that reason, justice, conscience, principle, and instinct, all prompted him to pronounce the bill a most infernal and diabolic measure. How the Right Reverend Bench reconciled it to their consciences, he was unable to conceive; for his part, he put his trust in the Almighty, and though he knew all he could say would avail nothing against a ministerial majority, yet he cautioned the Lords against injustice, as in the judicial visitation of Providence it generally fell heavy on the heads of those who planned iniquity.
This closed the debate, and on a division the numbers stood thus, for the bill 104, against the bill 29.
His Excellency Governor Colden's answer to the address published in our last.
GENTLEMEN,
I HAVE the best authority to assure you, that our most gracious Sovereign, and both Houses of Parliament have declared their readiness to afford every just and reasonable indulgence to the colonies, whenever they should make a proper application, on the ground of any real grievances they may have to complain of. This declaration has been followed by a resolution of the House of Commons, which it was expected would have manifested the justice and moderation of Parliament, and a disposition to comply with every wish of the subjects in America. They offer to forbear every kind of taxation or assessment on America, except such as are necessary for the regulation of commerce; and only require that the colonies should make provision, by such ways and means as are best suited to their respective circumstances, for contributing a proportion to the common defence of the empire, and for the support of their own civil government and the administration of justice. His Majesty's Ministers did not doubt this temper in Parliament would meet with such a return on the part of the colonies, as would lead to a happy issue of the present disputes, and to a re-establishment of the public tranquillity, on grounds of equity, justice, and moderation. Is it not then to be lamented as the most unfortunate event, that the patience of the people was exhausted at the moment of this prospect of a peaceable and happy accomplishment of all their wishes? Will not those in whom they now confide, yet endeavour to obtain it? Must this country, till now happy and flourishing beyond parallel, be involved in the dreadful calamities ever attendant on civil war, while there remains one possible means, untried, by which so great, so cruel an evil might be averted! You tell me, Gentlemen, that the people have lost all confidence in the ordinary officers of Government, and
that they have cast their eyes upon you for advice and direction. I cannot divest myself of the most affectionate concern for the welfare, the peace, and prosperity of the people over whom I have so long presided as the immediate representative of their august Sovereign, with whom I have lived the term of a long life, and among whom I leave all that is dear and valuable to me. I am impelled by my duty, and a most zealous attachment to the interest and safety of this people, to exhort you not to irritate the present enraged state of their minds, nor suffer them to plunge into labyrinths, from whence they can neither advance nor retreat, but through blood and desolation.
His Majesty's Ministers have, in the strongest terms, expressed the satisfaction with which the King received the assurance of the loyalty and affection of his faithful subjects in this government, and of their ardent desire for a permanent reconciliation with the mother country. I cannot then conceive upon what grounds a suspicion is entertained, that the city of New York is to be reduced to the present situation of Boston. I have not had the least intimation that any regular troops were designed for this province. It is proper that General Gage should know your sentiments on this subject, and I shall embrace the first opportunity of communicating your request to him. At the same time, I think there is reason to suspect that this report has been invented to facilitate the introduction of an armed force from Connecticut, which I am told is meditated. Will not the apprehension of such a design rouse you, Gentlemen, and every virtuous citizen, to avert, by every means in your power, a measure so degrading, so dangerous to the honour, the safety, and freedom of this colony.
I have beheld with inexpressible anxiety the state of tumult and disorder which raged in the metropolis of this province; and I am sorry that a recent instance since your appointment, revives the threatening prospect of insecurity to which the inhabitants are reduced. I exhort you to carry into effect the assurances you give me, that you are determined to improve that confidence with which the people have honoured you, in strengthening the hands of the civil magistrates. Let this be done immediately, and with impartial firmness on every occasion, that the houses, persons, and property of your fellow citizens may not be attacked and insulted with impunity, and every degree of domestic security and happiness sapped to the foundation.
MAY 13, 1775.
CADWALLADER COLDEN.
LONDON, March, 1775. The following address has been sent to Ireland for publication, and should be published in all the American papers.
ADDRESS to the SOLDIERS.
Gentlemen,
YOU are about to embark for America, to compel your fellow subjects there to submit to POVERY and SLAVERY. It is the glory of the British soldier, that he is the defender, not the destroyer of the civil and religious rights of the people. The English soldiery are immortalized in history for their attachment to the religion and liberties of their country.
When King James II. endeavoured to introduce the Roman Catholic religion and arbitrary power in Great Britain, he had an army encamped on Hounslow Heath, to terrify the people. Seven Bishops were seized upon, and sent to the Tower. But they appealed to the laws of their country, and were set at liberty. When this news reached the camp, the shouts of joy were so great, that they re-echoed in the Royal Palace. This, however, did not quite convince the King, of the aversion of the soldiers to be the instruments of oppression against their fellow subjects. He therefore made another trial. He ordered the guards to be drawn up, and the word was given, that those who did not choose to support the King's measures should ground their arms. When, behold, to his utter confusion, and their internal honour, the whole body grounded their arms.
You, Gentlemen, will soon have an opportunity of shewing equal virtue. You will be called upon to imbrue your hands in the blood of your fellow subjects in America, because they will not submit to be slaves, and are alarmed at the establishment of Poverty and arbitrary power in one half of their country.
Whether you will draw those swords which have defended them against their enemies to butcher them into a resignation of their rights, which they hold as the sons of Englishmen, is in your breasts. That you will not stain the laurels you have gained from France, by dipping them in civil blood, is every good man's hope.
Arts will no doubt be used to persuade you, that it is your duty to obey orders, and that you are sent upon the just and righteous errand of crushing rebellion. But your own hearts will tell you, that the people may be so ill treated, as to make resistance necessary. You know, that violence and injury offered from one man to another, has always some pretence of right and reason to justify it. So it is between the people and their rulers.
Therefore, whatever hard names and accusations may be bestowed upon your fellow subjects in America, be assured that they have not deserved them; but are driven, by the most cruel treatment, into despair. In this despair they are compelled to defend their liberties, after having tried, in vain, every peaceable means of obtaining redress of their manifold grievances.
Before God and man they are right.
Your honour then, Gentlemen, as soldiers, and your humanity as men, forbid you to be the instruments of forcing chains upon your injured and oppressed fellow subjects. Remember that your first obedience is due to God, and that whoever bids you shed innocent blood, bids you act contrary to his commandment. I am, Gentlemen, yours, &c.
AN OLD SOLDIER.

LONDON, April 3.
WE learn from America, that notwithstanding the vigilance of the King's cruisers, a Dutch ship hath gained a port to the northward of Louisbourg, and hath landed 16,000 stand of arms, with a proportion of powder, &c. and that the Americans are in possession of them, and in high spirits on the acquisition.
Last week a remittance was made from Copenhagen to the Bank of 12,000. for the use of the Queen of Denmark. The allowance is always sent here, from whence it is remitted to Zell, according to agreement, and is punctually paid half yearly.
A private letter has been received at the Admiralty office within these few days, by the way of Holland, from Seville, which brought information that 8 Spanish ships of war were at one of the Spanish ports, fully fitted out, and waiting for orders.
A man of war is just arrived express from Gibraltar, with the news of Mr. Frazer's losing his head at Algiers, the Dey having caused it to be struck off. The Dey always assured Government that Mr. Frazer was so obnoxious to the Mahometans, that he could not answer for any consequences if they still persisted in his embassy.
April 12. Lord North made a new motion in the House of Commons yesterday, which has a very popular aspect. His Lordship moved, "that this House do resolve itself into a committee of the whole House on Thursday fortnight, to consider of the encouragements proper to be given to the fisheries from Great Britain and Ireland." The motion being seconded, Mr. Burke rose, and expressed his satisfaction at hearing a proposition from the noble Lord in favour of Ireland, but he hoped it was not to be the effect of resentment towards America, or that Ireland was to acquire any advantages on the foundation of oppressing the colonies; he likewise hoped that our commercial policy would proceed upon general, impartial, permanent principles. Sir William Mayne gave his opinion in favour of the motion; and Mr. Thomas Townshend, in a spirited manner, expatiated on the narrow principles of policy, which had prevailed for many years in our commercial regulations with respect to Ireland, and he hoped the House would now have an opportunity to consider thoroughly the state of that kingdom, and to act upon a more liberal plan, by enquiring what branches of trade they were deprived of which they might enjoy without detriment to Great Britain. These candid hints called up Mr. Conolly, who, in a decent, respectful manner, mentioned the constant loyalty, and dutiful submission of Ireland (his native country) to England; he then mentioned the burthens it had cheerfully borne; the augmentation of its standing army at the request of this country, and the weight of enormous pensions on its revenues; after which he mentioned some branches of commerce, particularly the woollen trade to Turkey, which had absolutely been lost to England, through her jealousy to Ireland. This turn of the debate gave occasion for Mr. Burke to propose an amendment to Lord North's motion, by adding the word trade; but Lord North very justly objected to an amendment which would introduce such an extensive variety of matter, and said, that for the present it was only meant, from hints that had been thrown out in the course of the American debates, to see what advantages could be given to Great Britain and Ireland, by proper encouragements to the fisheries, not on a principle of resentment for the behaviour of the Americans, but on the general principle of promoting the commerce of Great Britain and Ireland; the question on the original motion being then put, it passed in the affirmative.
The House afterwards went into a committee on the motion for bringing in a bill to continue the act for obliging the East India Company to export a certain quantity of our woollen manufactures to their settlements abroad annually; after a short debate it passed in the affirmative 156 to 19, and was reported upon the Speaker's resuming the Chair.
A Spanish frigate has just returned from an expedition, begun in 1773, in order to reconnoitre the American coasts to the highest latitude possible. She reports, having discovered an Indian coast, at the height of 55 degrees, 44 minutes. The inhabitants of which (who are white) approached in 30 canoes, and gave them, in exchange of clothes, a kind of knit covering, such as they wore themselves. Some of these have been sent to the King, and being curiously made of fine wool, much speculation has arisen how they came by it, as sheep are not natives of that climate. They discovered another coast in 49 degrees, and treated with the natives, who were naked. The success of this first Spanish expedition will soon set others on foot.
Capt. Crammond, of the artillery, is appointed aid de camp to Major General Clinton, on the American expedition.
The Lords of the Admiralty have put his Majesty's sloop Senegal into commission, the command of which is given to Capt. Ludington; she is destined for the North American station.
The 23d, 40th, and 45th regiments of foot, that are to embark at Cork for North America, are to be landed at New York.
Lord Rowden, who arrived from Ireland a few days since, has been presented to his Majesty at St. James's, being introduced by Lord Barrington, and kissed his Majesty's hand on his promotion in the guards, and in a few days will set out to join his regiment at Boston.
A petition has been presented from the merchants and traders at and near Huddersfield, to the House of Commons, praying that the House will support the lawful authority of this kingdom over the Americans.
At the Court of St. James's the 5th day of April, 1775, present, The KING'S Most Excellent Majesty in Council.
Whereas the time limited by his Majesty's order in Council of the 19th of October last, for prohibiting the exporting out of this kingdom, or carrying coastwise, gunpowder, or any sorts of arms or ammunition, will expire upon the 19th of April: And whereas it is judged expedient that the said prohibition should be continued for some time longer, his Majesty doth therefore, by and with the advice of his Privy Council, hereby command, that no person or persons whatsoever (except the Master General, Lieutenant General, or principal officers of the ordnance, for his Majesty's service) do, at any time during six months, to commence from the said 19th instant, presume to transport, into any parts out of this Kingdom, or carry coastwise, any gunpowder, or any sort of arms or ammunition, or ship or lade any gunpowder, or any sort of arms or ammunition on board any ship or vessel, in order to transport the same into any parts beyond the seas, or carrying the same coastwise, without leave or permission first obtained from his Majesty, or his Privy Council, upon pain of incurring and suffering the respective forfeitures and penalties inflicted by an act passed in the 29th year of his late Majesty's reign, entitled, "An act to impower his Majesty to prohibit the exportation of salt-petre, &c."
To the KING'S Most Excellent Majesty.
The humble address, petition, and remonstrance of the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Livery of the city of LONDON, in Common Hall assembled.
Most gracious Sovereign, WE your Majesty's dutiful and loyal subjects, the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Livery of the city of London, beg leave to approach the Throne, and to declare our abhorrence of the measures which have been pursued, and are now pursuing, to the oppression of our fellow subjects in America. These measures are big with all the consequences which can alarm a free and commercial people: A deep, and perhaps fatal wound to commerce; the ruin of manufactures, the diminution of the revenue, and consequent increase of taxes; the alienation of the colonies, and the blood of your Majesty's subjects.
But your petitioners look with less horror at the consequences, than at the purpose of those measures; not deceived by the specious artifice of calling despotism dignity , they plainly perceive that the real purpose is to establish arbitrary power over all America.
Your petitioners conceive the liberties of the whole to be inevitably connected with those of every part of an empire, founded in the common rights of mankind; they cannot therefore observe, without the greatest concern and alarm, the constitution fundamentally violated, in any part of your Majesty's dominions. They esteem it to be an essential, unalterable principle of liberty, the source and security of all constitutional rights, that no part of the dominion can be taxed without being represented. Upon this great leading principle they most ardently wish to see their fellow subjects in America secured in what their humble petition to your Majesty prays for, peace, liberty, and safety. Subordination in commerce, under which the colonies have always cheerfully acquiesced, is, they conceive, all that this country ought in justice to require. From this subordination such advantages flow, by all the profits of their commerce centering here, as fully compensates this nation for the expence we incur, to which they also contribute in men and money, for their defence and protection, during a general war; and in their provincial wars they have manifested their readiness and resolution to defend themselves. To require more of them would, for this reason, derogate from the justice and magnanimity which have been hitherto the pride and character of this country.
It is, therefore, with the deepest concern, that we have seen the sacred security of representation in their Assemblies wrested from them; the trial by jury abolished; the odious powers of excise extended to all the cases of revenue; the sanctuary of their houses laid open to violation, at the will and pleasure of every officer and servant in the Customs; the dispensation of justice corrupted, by rendering their judges dependent for their seats and salaries on the will of the crown; liberty and life rendered precarious, by subjecting them to be dragged over the ocean, and tried for treason or felony here, where the distance making it impossible for the most guiltless to maintain his innocence, must deliver him up a victim to Ministerial vengeance; soldiers and others in America have been instigated to shed the blood of the people, by establishing a mode of trial which holds out impunity for such murder; the capital of New England has been punished with unexampled rigour, untried and unheard, involving the innocent, and suspected in one common and inhuman calamity; chartered rights have been taken away without any forfeiture proved in order to deprive the people of every legal exertion against the tyranny of their rulers; the habeas corpus act and trial by jury have been suppressed, and French despotic government, with the Roman Catholic religion, have been established by law over an extensive part of your Majesty's dominions in America; dutiful petitions for redress of these grievances, from all your Majesty's American subjects have been fruitless: To fill up the measure of these Oppressions, an army has been sent to enforce them.
Superadded to this, measures are now planned upon the most merciless policy of starving our fellow subjects into a total surrender of their liberties, and an unlimited submission to arbitrary Government.
These grievances have driven your Majesty's faithful subjects to despair, and obliged them to have recourse to that resistance which is justified by the great principle of the constitution, actuated by which, at the glorious period of the revolution, our ancestors transferred the Imperial Crown of these realms, from the Popish and tyrannical race of the Stuarts, to the illustrious and protestant House of Brunswick.
Your petitioners are persuaded, that these measures originate in the secret advice of men who are enemies equally to your Majesty's title, and the liberties of your people; that your Majesty's Ministers carry them into execution by the same wicked and fatal corruption, which has enabled them to wound the peace and violate the constitution of this country. This is poisoning the fountain of public security, and rendering that body, which should be the guardian of liberty, a formidable instrument of arbitrary power.
Your petitioners do therefore most earnestly beseech your Majesty to dismiss immediately, and for ever, from your councils, these Ministers and advisers, as the first step towards a full redress of those grievances which alarm and afflict your people.
So shall peace and commerce be restored, and the confidence and affection of all your Majesty's subjects be the solid supporters of your Throne.
His MAJESTY'S Answer.
IT is with the utmost astonishment that I find any of my subjects capable of encouraging the rebellious disposition which unhappily exists in some of my colonies in North America. Having entire confidence in the wisdom of my Parliament, the great Council of the nation, I will steadily pursue those measures which they have recommended for the support of the constitutional rights of Great Britain, and the protection of the commercial interests of my kingdoms.
BOSTON, June 1.
Extract of a letter from PAISLEY, dated April 3. TRADE in general is very good at present, but the muslin and silk gauze branch is exceedingly so, the orders from Russia this season are much larger than possibly can be answered, which raised the price from 7 to 12 per cent. above the usual rates.
Extract of a letter from GLASGOW, of the same date. The British Parliament are still as high as ever in their demands on the Americans, and seem determined to enforce obedience to their laws. We with these differences may be peaceably settled with honourable conditions for both parties. When that agreeable event happens we shall be glad of your favours.
Extract of another letter from GLASGOW, dated April 4. Notwithstanding your port's being shut, we have now greater demand for all kinds of Scotch manufactures, than what has been for several years past; they chiefly go to the London markets.
We hear that the Scotch brigades, in the Dutch service, consisting of about 5000 men, are to be employed in America.
His Excellency Joseph Wanton, Esq; Governor of Rhode Island, is deposed from his government by the General Assembly of that province, for refusing his assent to an act for raising 1500 men that were to be employed to assist the colonies in their justifiable opposition to the parent state.
An act for laying an embargo on all kinds of provisions hath been passed by the General Assembly of Rhode Island.
The Provincial Congress of New Hampshire have voted to raise 2000 men.
WORCESTER, May 24.
THE week before last the Falcon sloop of war, was cruising about Cape Cod, and meeting with a wood sloop, in ballast, seized her, but promising the skipper to release him and his vessel if he would give information of any vessel that was just arrived from the West Indies with a cargo on board; he at length told the Captain of the Falcon that there was a sloop at Dartmouth, which had just arrived. Whereupon the Captain of the Falcon, instead of releasing the wood sloop, armed and manned her, and sent her in search of the West Indian. They found the vessel lying at anchor, but her cargo was landed; however, they seized her and carried her off, after putting part of their crew, and some guns and ammunition, on board. Notice of this getting on shore, the people fitted out a third sloop, with about 30 men and 2 swivel guns, and went in pursuit of these royal pirates, whom they came up with at Martha's vineyard, where they lay at anchor at about a leagues distance from each other. The first surrendered without firing a gun; our people, after putting a number of hands on board, bore down upon the other, which by this time had got under sail, but the people in the Dartmouth sloop coming up with her, the pirates fired upon them; the fire was immediately returned, by which three of the pirates were wounded, among whom was the commanding officer; our people boarded her immediately, and having taken both sloops, carried them into Dartmouth, and sent the prisoners to Cambridge, from thence nine of them were yesterday brought to this town.
NEW YORK, June 1.
IT is reported that the forces destined for Boston, New York, &c. will not be sent off before the 8th of June, in expectation of the good effects of Lord North's conciliating plan. What infatuation! to imagine such a scheme would be productive of anything but disgust and contempt.
From South Carolina, we hear they are about to raise a naval force, in defence of our common rights.
The following account is given by a Gentleman of veracity, lately arrived from Boston.
On or about the 20th ult. General Gage ordered 200 soldiers, armed, to proceed in two boats, with swivels, to Grape island, near Weymouth Beach, to take possession of some hay and cattle. The country being alarmed, three or four hundred provincials collected, and having only one boat, which contained 40 men, they landed on said island, and drove off the regulars, who being much discontented, ran their boats on the flats, where they remained four hours, all which time the provincials continued their fire; the boats then floating, the regulars returned to Boston, with the loss of eight men killed, and several wounded, as the provincials were informed by a Gentleman that left Boston the next day. The provincials being masters of the island, burnt 100 tons of hay, and drove off all the cattle, which were collected there by an enemy to this country. None of the provincials were killed or wounded.
On Sunday last arrived the snow Patty, Capt. Barry, from Liverpool, but last from Cork, in 54 days; by whom we are informed that 30 transports, with the troops on board, were to sail for Boston the 15th of April. They were waiting for more transports, and some men of war from England, which were hourly expected.
We are informed from Charlestown, South Carolina, that the inhabitants of that place had bought the large new ship Maria Willielmina, lately built here, and are fitting her for the purpose of guarding the town.
The General Assembly of South Carolina is prorogued to the first of June, and their Provincial Congress is to meet at Charlestown on the 20th of June.
WILLIAMSBURG, June 17.
THE last accounts from Boston say, that it is supposed the troops arrived with the three Generals only recruit the army to what it was before the battle of Lexington, and makes, according to the highest account, not above 4000, who are surrounded by an army of 12,000 provincials; that the General's army is distressed for provisions, and this, or some other cause, has induced him to seize on the provisions of the inhabitants of the town, as well the donations as private flock, at the same time he is practising every insidious art to prevent them from coming out according to his contract, with a view, as is supposed, to keep them as hostages for his own security; and that this distress, and some other circumstances, it is thought, will put the provincials upon a desperate attack. The storm seems gathering at Ticonderoga: Governor Carleton has sent 400 men to regain that important post; 1000 Connecticut men are gone to support it, and as it is expected both parties will continue their reinforcements, we may probably soon hear of some warm work there.
The GOVERNOR's answer to the joint address of the Hon. the COUNCIL and the HOUSE OF BURGESSES, in consequence of the message which his Excellency left behind him, upon his retreat on board the FOWEY man of war.
Gentlemen of the COUNCIL, Mr. SPEAKER, and Gentlemen of the HOUSE OF BURGESSES,
IN answer to your joint address, presented by your deputies yesterday, I acquaint you, that it appears to me the commotions among the people, and their menaces and threats (an enumeration of which I forbear, out of tenderness) have been of such public notoriety, that you must suppose many of his Majesty's subjects in this colony, whether they meditated or not, have at least manifested, such an inveteracy as justifies my suspicion that they would not hesitate to commit a crime, which, horrid and atrocious as it is, I had just ground to apprehend. And when the disposition which the House of Burgesses have shown towards me, the returns they have made to the respect and civility which I have been forward to offer to them, the countenance they have given to the violent and disorderly proceedings of the people, his Majesty's magazine having been forced and rifled in the presence of some of the members of the House of Burgesses, and, by the information of the committee the House appointed to inspect the magazine, no other endeavours have been used than to prevail on the people to return the arms taken out, but not to commit the persons in whose possession they were found, in order that they might be brought to the punishment due to so heinous an offence, no less against the peace and good order of the country than the dignity and authority of the King; when a body of men assembled in the city of Williamsburg, not only to the knowledge, but with the approbation of every body, for the avowed purpose of attacking a party of the King's forces, which, without the least foundation, it was reported were marching to my protection, and which, if true, ought to have been approved and aided, not opposed and insulted, by all good and loyal subjects; when especially the House of Burgesses, or a committee of the House (which is the same) has ventured upon a step fraught with the most alarming consequences, in ordering and appointing guards, without ever consulting me, to mount in the city of Williamsburg, as is pretended, to protect the magazine, but which may well be doubted, as there then remained nothing therein which required being guarded; but if otherwise, this step nevertheless shows a design to usurp the executive power, which, if it be persisted in, subverts the constitution: I say, when these circumstances are duly considered, I may submit it to your own judgment whether I could reasonably expect any good effect from communicating the ground of my uneasiness to you.
But as you are pleased, Gentlemen, now to assure me, that you will cheerfully concur in any measure that may be proposed proper for the security of myself and family, I leave to your own consideration whether that can be effected any otherwise than by re-instituting me in the full powers of my office, as his Majesty's representative, by opening the courts of justice, and restoring the energy of the laws, which is all the security requisite for all parties; by disarming all independent companies, or other bodies of men raised and acting in defiance of lawful authority, and by obliging those who have taken any of his Majesty's public store of arms to deliver them up immediately; and, what is not less essential than any things, by your own example, and every means in your power, abolishing that spirit of persecution, which, to the disgrace of humanity, now reigns, and pursues with menaces and acts of oppression, all persons who differ from the multitude in political opinion, or are attached from principles and duty to the service of their King and government; by which means, the deluded people never hearing but the disfigured side of a story, their minds are continually kept in that ferment which subjects them for ever to be imposed upon, and leads to the commission of any desperate act, and endangers the general safety. For the more speedy accomplishment of these ends, and the great object and necessary business of the session, I shall have no objection to your adjourning to the town of York, where I will meet you, and remain with you till your business is finished.
With respect to your entreaty that I should return to the palace, as the most likely means of quieting the minds of the people, I must represent to you, that, unless there be among you a sincere and active desire to seize this opportunity, now offered to you by Parliament, of establishing the freedom of your country upon a fixed and known foundation, and of uniting yourselves with your fellow subjects of Great Britain in one common bond of interest, and mutual assistance, my return to Williamsburg would be as

fruitless to the people, as, possibly, it might be dangerous to myself. But if your proceedings manifest that happy disposition, which is to be desired ardently by every good friend to this as well as the mother country, I assure you, in the warmth of my heart, that I will return, with the greatest joy, and shall consider it as the most fortunate event of my life if you give me an opportunity to be an instrument of promoting your happiness, and a mediator between you and the supreme authority, to obtain for you every explanation of your doubts, and the fullest conviction of the sincerity of their desire to confirm to you the undisturbed enjoyment of your rights and liberty; and I shall be well pleased, by bringing my family back again, that you should have such a pledge of my attachment to this country, and of my wishes to cultivate a close and lasting intimacy with the inhabitants.
JUNE 10, 1775.
DUNMORE.
Married ,—Mr. WILLIAM HARDYMAN, of Charles City, to Miss NANCY BLACK, daughter of William Black, Esq; of Chesterfield.
At a meeting of the HANOVER VOLUNTEER COMPANY, on the 8th of June, 1775.
Resolved , THAT this company approve of the spirited resolution of the WILLIAMSBURG VOLUNTEERS the 25th ult. and that they are determined at the risk of their lives, to aid and assist in protecting the liberties of this country against all arbitrary measures whatsoever.
Resolved , that the expedition undertaken by this company, in making reprisals on the King's property, for powder removed from the country magazine, by the command of the Governor, proceeded from a sincere attachment to the liberties of their country, and it is with heart-felt satisfaction that their conduct is so generally approved by their worthy countrymen.
Signed by order of the company.
JAMES OVERTON, Clk.
At a meeting of the committee for the county of Middlesex, on Monday the 17th of April, 1775: A complaint being lodged against one Thomas Haddin an inhabitant of said county, for refusing to sign the Continental Association, and reviling the same, whereupon the committee ordered him to be summoned to appear before them this 22d of May, and it plainly appearing that he had been summoned, but that he not only refused to appear, but expressed himself in terms of the highest contempt both of the association and committee,
Resolved , therefore, that the said Thomas Haddin be held forth to the public as an enemy to American liberty.
Ordered , that a copy of the above be sent to the printers of the Virginia gazette, and that they be requested to print the same.
LODOWICK JONES, Clk. Com.
At a meeting of the committee for the county of Middlesex, on the 6th of June, 1775, present ten members. It having been reported by one John Parsons a ship-builder, that goods to a considerable amount, contrary to the association of the Continental Congress, had been landed at Urbanna, on Thursday the 25th ult. and put into the store of Messrs. James Mills and co. the committee convened, and after inquiry, and the testimony of a witness being first sworn, it appeared that the report had not the least foundation. To the end therefore, that the public may not be imposed on by such false and groundless reports, the committee think it their duty to declare, that the Gentlemen concerned in said store, have never, as far as they know or believe, been guilty of the smallest breach of the association; but on the contrary, have adhered to the same with a scrupulosity becoming the friends of American liberty.
Ordered , that a copy of the above be sent to the printers of the Virginia gazette, and they are desired to print the same.
SAMUEL KLUG, Chairman.
To Messrs. DIXON & HUNTER.
GENTLEMEN, IT was with great surprise, and I must confess with a good deal of concern, that I observed, in Mr. Purdie's gazette of the 8th instant, an extract of a letter from London, dated the 10th of March last, which mentions "that the merchants of Glasgow, upon the present unhappy differences subsisting betwixt Great Britain and her American colonies, sent up a very spirited petition to Parliament, but at the same time let Lord North know, by their member, Lord Frederick Campbell, that they did not mean any opposition by it, but only to get credit in America." The writer of this letter must have either been greatly misinformed, or actuated by interest or resentment; for, from the most certain intelligence, I can assure the good people of this colony, that the latter part of the paragraph mentioned is equally false, as it is injurious to the merchants of the city of Glasgow, and the Gentlemen with whom they are connected in this colony. No part of the British nation have exerted themselves with greater warmth, and I may truly add, with greater sincerity, than the merchants of Glasgow, for a restoration of that happy union so ardently wished for by every true friend to America or Great Britain; and I am fully convinced that every merchant in this colony views with the greatest abhorrence the very idea of such villainous, disingenuous, and unmanly conduct, as the writer of the above letter charges them with.
The greatest unanimity, Gentlemen, is essentially necessary at this period, in this, as well as every other colony in America: Surely then our public printers should be extremely careful to promote, by their publications, an object of such importance; and avoid, with the greatest caution and resolution, every thing that may have a contrary effect.
MERCATOR.
ON Friday the 11th of July, will be sold to the highest Bidder, at Hanover Town, to be entered on at Christmas next, the HOUSE and LOT there belonging to the Estate of Robert Paterson, deceased, and now occupied by Mr. Thomas Arbuthnot. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed for one Half, and eighteen Months for the other, the Purchaser giving Bond, with Security, to carry Interest from the Date if not punctually paid. A good Title will be made by
ROBERT DONALD, Administrator.
WESTMORELAND, June 1, 1775.
I INTEND for Scotland very soon, and I must therefore beg the Favour of all Persons who have had Dealings with me, and owe Balances, to come and have Settlements of them before I leave the Colony; likewise those who have Claims against me are desired to bring them in, that they may be paid off. Mr. John Middlesex will be properly empowered in my Absence to transact my Business, and to whom I have now given up the Charge of the Store.
I will sell for ready Money, or short Credit, a SLOOP that carries 60 Hogheads of Tobacco, two Years old, her upper Works of Mulberry, and every Way well fitted. Likewise a SCHOONER that carries 1200 Bushels; she is new, goes well, and is in every Respect well found.
HUGH HAMILTON.
NORFOLK, June 16, 1775.
FOR CHARTER,
A NEW BRIGANTINE, now on the Stocks, Burthen about 300 Hogheads of Tobacco, or 9000 Bushels of Grain, can be ready to receive a Cargo in five Weeks. Any Person wanting such a Vessel will please to deliver their Terms to Mr. John Peden, who will be at Williamsburg until the 20th of this Month, or send them to the Subscriber, at Norfolk, who intends leaving the Colony in July, and to return in a few Months.
JAMES ARCHDEACON.
SMITHFIELD, June 12, 1775. THE Copartnership of James Ronaldson and Company having expired in November last, all Persons indebted to them are desired to pay their respective Balances to Mr. Patrick Ronaldson, and those that have Claims are requested to make them known. The Subscriber intends to leave the Colony in a short Time. JAMES RONALDSON.
WILLIAMSBURG, June 14, 1775. LOST by the Subscriber, a few Nights ago, an old POCKET BOOK, containing a few Notes of Hand, with sundry other Papers; also a Bond of 600l. Currency, and another of 150l. Sterling, both bearing Date the 22d of July 1774. The Bonds will be satisfied to-morrow; therefore it will answer no Purpose for any Person to take an Assignment of them. Whoever will bring the said Pocket Book to me, or to Mrs. Grizel Hay of this City, shall be handsomely rewarded. ROBERT CAMPBELL.
NANSEMOND, June 12, 1775. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. JOHN MINDOE.
TO BE SOLD
For ready Money, to the highest Bidder, on FRIDAY the 30th Instant (JUNE) at the Plantation where Mr. SAMUEL LONG lately lived, in WARWICK County, known by the Name of SMITH'S POINT, near Newport News,
A VARIETY of Household Furniture, consisting of Silver Table Spoons and Tea-spoons, a Silver Soup Spoon, two Silver Salts, one Mahogany Table, and sundry Prints, &c. Also a SINGLE CHAIR with Harness, two Carts, a Carrylog, a Timber Carriage, ten valuable Draught Oxen, a House Frame, and some Plank.—On the same Day and place, will be sold, the said Samuel Long's Right to cut the Timber on a Tract of Land in Warwick County, which he purchased of James Rascoe, together with a Quantity of white Oak rough Staves, and about 70 white Oak hewed Stocks, already cut down, and lying on said Land. The Time of Payment to be made known at the Sale. SAMUEL KERR, & Co.
PORTSMOUTH, June 12, 1775.
SMITHFIELD, June 14, 1775. I INTEND leaving the Colony for a few Months: The Business carried on here for Messrs. Andrew Sym and Company, of Glasgow, Merchants, will, in my Absence, be under the Direction of Messrs. John Stirling and Patrick Ronaldson, who are properly authorised to transact the same. JOHN SYM.
A LIST of the fortunate Numbers in the BACK CREEK SCHOOL LOTTERY, SOMERSET COUNTY, MARYLAND.
Those Numbers which have no Prizes affixed to them are Prizes of EIGHT DOLLARS.
   No. Dollars. No. Dollars. No. Dollars. No. Dollars. No. Dollars. No. Dollars.    13 223 448 681 909 1081 1294  15 25 51 85 10 83 96  19 27 52 86 16 89 1303  20 30 53 87 18 90 13  21 33 55 91 19 91 15  23 35 57 92 20 92 24  25 37 60 94 25 93 28  31 41 65 99 28 96 29  34 47 67 500 37 98 33  39 50 75 20 38 1101 36  41 51 79 6 39 5 37  45 58 89 7 40 11 43 20  50 59 90 9 42 20 46  55 62 94 12 43 15 47  58 71 97 15 44 17 58  65 72 503 50 45 22 59  71 74 10 24 47 26 64 20  72 50 14 25 49 32 65  79 76 15 30 51 33 67  83 83 18 28 54 38 73  88 86 26 29 55 42 74  89 87 27 31 59 44 77  92 92 30 32 60 45 83  93 97 45 40 63 20 94  96 98 47 43 64 53 96  97 303 48 51 65 60 97  99 9 49 55 66 61 99  100 10 54 56 67 62 1402  3 16 58 62 68 63 9  7 26 59 30 69 66 100 12  17 27 72 70 70 75 15  19 38 73 71 73 89 18  23 30 41 75 80 90 24  26 44 77 87 83 95 28  27 46 79 88 89 30 31  31 48 80 94 90 1200 35  33 50 84 97 94 3 37  36 52 87 98 95 15 38  37 55 90 813 97 18 39  43 56 91 20 1003 22 45  46 57 96 20 8 26 47  51 71 98 24 9 35 48  52 73 99 27 16 300 49 20  53 80 601 20 17 42 53  59 81 6 20 18 45 58  60 82 9 20 20 48 69  65 85 10 47 23 49 70  69 92 11 50 25 50 73 30  70 98 13 52 26 52 400 74 30  72 401 14 56 30 62 77  75 2 22 61 32 64 78  76 4 23 63 40 67 80  79 9 27 66 43 68 81  82 12 29 68 47 71 84  83 23 31 70 48 73 89 50  85 20 36 78 50 74 90  87 25 42 80 56 77 91  91 26 44 86 65 81 92 20  95 34 48 87 69 84 93 20  96 37 63 88 70 86 95  201 38 68 90 71 88 97  4 41 72 92 74 90 1500  12 43 76 50 77 92  24 47 77 901 80  
By Order of the Managers. JOHN GALE, Clk. Check Book. MAY 13, 1775.
ALBEMARLE, May 18, 1775. ALL Persons indebted to the Estate of John Hudson, late of this County, are hereby requested to make immediate Payment, that I may be enabled to discharge the Debts due by the same; and all those who have Demands against the said Estate are desired to make them known by the 1st of October next, as I purpose closing the Estate's Accounts by that Time. JOHN SCOTT, Executor.
To be RENTED, for one or more Years. A VALUABLE FARM on James River, near the Mouth of Beaverdam, in Goochland County, 26 Miles from Richmond, sufficient to employ ten Hands and six Horses to great Advantage. This Place is well known, and deservedly esteemed, both for Richness of Soil and useful Improvements in the Farming Way, consisting of proper Enclosures, Dwelling-Houses, Granaries, Stable, and Treading-Floor, together with a large Apple Orchard of late Fruit. My present Dwelling-House, Garden, Stable, Store, and other Outhouses, Peach and Cherry Orchards, with a good Still, being off the Farm, will be let as a Tavern, for which Purpose they are conveniently situate, and well calculated. For Terms apply to the Subscriber, on the Premises. THOMAS PLEASANTS.
NORFOLK, June 6, 1775. THE Subscriber (late of Warwick County) finding that it is out of his Power to pay all he owes, would willingly make over every thing in his Power to his Creditors, to be divided among them in Proportion to their respective Sums; and for that Purpose he requests that they will meet at Mr. Stephen Tankard's in Norfolk, on Wednesday the 28th Instant, at 10 o'Clock, to appoint such Trustees as they shall think proper. SAMUEL LONG.
ALEXANDRIA, June 5, 1775. EIGHT POUNDS REWARD. RUN away from the Subscriber, two indented Servants named ROBERT SHAW and ANDREW INGLES, both Natives of Scotland, and Bakers by Trade. Each of them had on a Bearskin Jacket lined with Plaid, Osnabrug Trousers, old Shoes, and Half worn Castor Hats. Their Bundles consist, as it is supposed, of two Match Coat Blankets, two Pair of Leather Breeches, two Osnabrug Shirts, two Check Shirts, and two red Jackets. Shaw is about 5 Feet 10 Inches high, has a swarthy Complexion, dark short frizzled Hair, a long Scar on his right Arm, appears bold, and talks much. Ingles is about 5 Feet 5 Inches high, has short straight Hair, swarthy and long featured, has a Scab over his right Eye, his right Leg is fore, he is fond of Liquor, and talks more in his Country Dialect than Shaw. Thomas Walsom, a Convict, about 27 Years of Age, a Barber by Trade, about 5 Feet 6 Inches high, has a Laddish down Look, brown straight Hair, a little knock-kneed, and a leering Look; had on, and took with him, two white Linen Shirts, an old Drab coloured Cloth Coat, one red and one striped Holland Jacket, one Pair of new Drilling Breeches, one Pair of old Buff coloured Stocking Breeches, one Pair of white and one Pair of white and blue spotted Stockings, a new Felt Hat bound with black Ferreting, has a black Silk Handkerchief, and some other Things which cannot be described.—WILLIAM LEE, by Trade a Cooper, about 5 Feet 9 Inches high, marked with the Smallpox, has a remarkable large Nose, speaks thick, and is impudent; he took with him a yellow Bull-Dog, with cropped Ears, one Side of his Face white, has a Glass Eye, and white Breast and Neck, is very fond of going into the Water, and answers to the Name of Turk. The said Lee had a Variety of Clothes, which cannot well be described. Whoever takes up, and secures the said Servants, shall have the above Reward, or 40s. for each, paid by JAMES KIRK. ROBERT ADAM. GEORGE PURVIS.
JUNE 15, 1775. RUN away, last Saturday, from Williamsburg, two indented English Servants, the Property of the Subscriber, viz. JOHN FLEMING, about 27 Years of Age, thin visaged, has a sallow Complexion, and had on, when he went off, a brown Holland short Coat and Jacket, and wears Trousers; he is by Trade a Painter, Drawer, and Silvermith. GEORGE WASSELL, about 17 Years of Age, by Trade a Shoemaker, strong made, and much pitted with the Smallpox; he wears a blue Jacket and Trousers. Whoever secures the said Servants in any public Gaol, or delivers them to me at Norfolk, shall have 30s. Reward for each, besides what the Law allows. GAVIN HAMILTON.
NEW KENT, June 17, 1775. RUN away from the Subscriber the 8th of this Instant (June) a likely Negro Man named JONATHAN, about 21 Years old, of a yellowish Complexion, straight made, about 5 Feet 6 or 57 Inches high, with a bold Countenance, and hath an Impediment in his Speech. He carried with him three different Suits of Clothes, so that I cannot describe his Dress. He was seen in York Town last Monday, intending to make his Escape out of the Colony. As he is artful, I do not doubt but he has procured a forged Pass. Whoever apprehends said Negro, and delivers him to me in New Kent, within two Miles of the Brick House Ferry, on York River, shall have 5l. Reward, and if taken out of the Colony 10l. paid by JAMES TYRIE.
HENRICO, May 30, 1775. RUN away, in February last, a likely well shaped black young Negro Fellow named EDM, about 18 Years of Age, has a Scar on one of his Elbows, occasioned by a Burn when a Child, one of his little Fingers is much bent in, has a pleasant Countenance, and is very artful and active. As I purchased him of Col. Philip Johnson some Years ago, he may probably be in that Neighbourhood. I will give 40s. to any Person that will bring him to me, about three Miles above Richmond Town. FORTUNATUS SYDNOR.
OSBORNE'S, June 6, 1775. STRAYED from the Subscriber, about the 20th of February last, a dark bay HORSE, 4 Feet 7 Inches high, 6 Years old, branded on the near Shoulder I, his Mane cut on the near Side, and his Tail bobbed, both of which had nearly grown out; he was lame in the Shoulder, his Flanks are of a lighter Colour than his Body, had a thick Thigh, trots hard and fast, and had remarkable good Courage. He was bred on Broad River, North Carolina, where he will probably go, if not taken up; but I have Reason to believe he was stopped by Thomas Frith of Chesterfield, and by him exchanged to one Crowder of Dinwiddie. Whoever takes up the said Horse, and brings him home, shall have 30s. Reward; but if they can make it appear that he was bartered, as I suspect, I will give 3l. PETERFIELD TRENT.
HANOVER, June 15, 1775. STOLEN, or STRAYED, from this Place, the 6th Instant, a LIGHT GRAY HORSE, 7 Years old, about 14 Hands high, not branded, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, paces and canters remarkably well, and is a very pleasant Riding Horse. Whoever brings the said Horse to me shall receive 20s. Reward, and 5l. on Conviction of the Thief. THOMAS EVANS.
TAKEN up, in Hanover

POETS CORNER.
ODE to HEALTH.
O THOU! from whose kind bounty flows The greatest comfort Heaven bestows, With thee, blest health! whilst in my veins Life's crimson tide its course maintains, With thee for ever let me dwell, Nor thou disdain my humble cell: For if on wealth we fix our aim, Or glory in a parent's name; If high ambition fire our mind With sovereign power to rule mankind; Or love's soft secret joys inspire Our tender breasts with warm desire; What e'er delights the Gods bestow To sooth the pangs of human wo, With thee, blest health! new pleasures bring, And bloom in one continual spring.
THE Subscriber intends to leave this Colony immediately, and to return in a few Months. It is requested of all those indebted to me, that they make immediate Payment to Mr. George Wright of Amelia, who is properly authorised to receive and grant Discharges. PATRICK FORSYTH.
ALL Persons indebted to Humphrey Hill, deceased, late of King and Queen County, are requested to make immediate Payment, and those who have any demands against the said Estate to apply for Payment to JOHN, EDWARD, & WILLIAM HILL, Ex'rs.
LEEDS Town, June 2, 1775.
I intend for Great Britain immediately. (2) JOHN SHARPLES.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in King and Queen, the 5th of October 1774, a Negro Woman named HANNAH, of the Middle Stature, remarkably black, has been hurt in one Side (I think the right) which makes her limp as she walks; had on, when she went away, a Negro Cotton Jacket, and a Virginia Cloth Petticoat, striped with black Yarn. Whoever secures her so that I may get her again (if in this Colony) shall have 40s. Reward, and if out thereof 5l. JOHN CARDWELL.
AS I was informed, at the late Convention held at Richmond, that a very large Number of Sheep were wanted by the Inhabitants of the middle and western Counties of this Colony; on my Return to Norfolk, I made Inquiry what Number could be purchased in Norfolk and Princess Anne Counties, and Parts adjacent; and, from the best Information I have been able to get, I am convinced that several Hundreds may be purchased in those Parts, if Application be made before the 20th Day of July, as the Persons who have Sheep for Sale choose to dispose of what they have to spare by that Time. The Butchers who supply Norfolk Market have informed me, that if applied to, they shall be ready to assist Purchasers in making their Purchase; and they certainly know of whom the best, as well as the greatest Number of Sheep, are to be bought. JAMES HOLT.
For LIVERPOOL, (To sail in a Month)
THE Ship BRILLIANT, WILLIAM PRIESTMAN Master; can take in 200 Hogsheads of Tobacco on Freight, with Liberty of Consignment. For Terms apply to JOHN LAURENCE, Esq. Co. Who have also FOR CHARTER, a SHIP of 400 Hogsheads, and a BRIG of 3000 Bushels Burthen. NORFOLK, June 6, 1775.
THE Volunteer Company of Dinwiddie County would willingly engage with an expert ADJUTANT to instruct them in military Discipline.
THE Subscriber being very desirous of getting out of Debt, without any Dependence on his ungrateful Debtors, proposes to sell the pleasant and healthy Seat of HUNTINGTOUR, near Appomattox River, in the lower End of Buckingham, with 1500 or 2000 Acres of good Land, which produces fine Tobacco, Hemp, Wheat, &c. The Houses are new, and the best I have seen in the country; a larger and better Garden I believe is not in the Colony, and on this Land are several Hundred Fruit Trees of the best Kind, many of which were brought by water to Richmond Town above 80 Miles. On this Tract of Land is a large Proportion of exceeding fine Meadow Land, with a Fish Pond within three Hundred Yards of the Dwelling-House, stored with various Kinds of fine Fish, sufficient for the Use of a Family the Year round. In this Neighbourhood is Plenty of excellent Venison. The Air is so pure that I never knew an Instance of any Person having the Ague and Fever at Huntingtour. I have travelled through the most Parts of Virginia, and I have not seen any Part that I would so willingly reside in as this Neighbourhood. If I sell this Place, I shall live on the Part of this Tract of Land which has been advertised for some Time past. I make no Doubt but Appomattox River will be soon cleared, and then Wheat will be carried as far as Col. Banister's Mill, near Petersburg, for 4d. or 5d. per Bushel. I made at this Place 100 Gallons of rich Wine in 1772, and last Year (if it had not been for the Frost) I could have made 5 or 600 Gallons, which Quantity I expect to make this Year.
HUNTINGTOUR would be a pleasant and safe Place for a Gentleman of Fortune to retreat to in the Horrors of a civil War, or in the sickly Months of many Parts of the Lowlands. "What is Honour, Grandeur, and Wealth? All fleeting Nothings without Health!" I hope any Gentlemen inclined to purchase will visit the Premises this Summer. I will also sell, very cheap (that is, for about Half the Value) the Tract of rich LAND I have advertised in Albemarle for some Time past. ANTHONY WINSTON.
COMMITTED to Buckingham Gaol, on the 15th of May last, a Negro Man about 5 Feet 6 Inches high, with a remarkable large Scar on the Back of his right Hand, Scars on each Side of his Face, and had on a Virginia Linen Shirt and Trousers. He cannot, or will not, tell his Master's Name. JOHN COX, Gaoler.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, about two Months ago, a large BLACK BITCH, very big with Puppies. Whoever brings her to the Post Office in Williamsburg shall have TWO DOLLARS Reward.
A DECENT young Woman wishes to live with a good Family, not very distant from the Neighbourhood of Petersburg. She would cheerfully discharge the common Duty of a Housekeeper, without any other Reward than her Board, and such Gratuity as may be graciously bestowed. For her Character, and other Information, inquire of Mr. William Bradley, or Mr. William Timberlake, of Petersburg. NORTHUMBERLAND, May 25, 1775.
The SUBSCRIBER intends to leave the Colony immediately. THOMAS FORSYTH.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Farnham Parish, Richmond County, the 12th of May last, a Convict Servant named WILLIAM WELLS, imported this Spring in the Justitia, Capt. Kidd, about 6 Feet high, very thin, a little pitted with the Smallpox, of a brown Complexion, his Nose somewhat red, and has short dark brown Hair. He had on, when he went away, a gray Bath Coating Coat and Waistcoat (the Waistcoat, I am informed, he has changed for a short red one since he ran away) a Check Shirt, a Pair of Osnaburg long Breeches, patched on both Thighs, a Pair of old single Channel Pumps tied with Strings, a small Hat, the Crown of which is sewed in with brown Thread, and cocked two Ways; he carried with him a Pair of light coloured coarse Cloth Breeches, patched on the Knees. He is very saucy, and fond of Liquor. I am informed he was seen the 18th of May at Hobb's Hole, and wanted to engage as a Sailor on Board some of the Ships there; but failing of employment, he quitted that place with two Sailors, who stole a Pettiauger with a Design of going to Norfolk. Whoever conveys him to me, shall have 5l. Reward. FRANCIS CHRISTIAN. All Captains or Masters of Vessels are forewarned carrying him out of the Colony, at their Peril. (2l)
For CHARTER to any Part of BRITAIN, AN EXCEEDING GOOD VESSEL, Burthen about 500 Hogsheads. FOR TERMS APPLY TO Greenwood, Ritson, & Marsh. NORFOLK, May 3, 1775. (1f)
STRAYED from my Plantation, near Dumfries, on Friday the 12th Instant, a BRIGHT BAY MARE near 14 Hands high, with a long Bob Tail and very thick Mane, paces naturally, and gallops very awkwardly, marked, to the best of my Remembrance, with a W on the left Shoulder, shod before, had a Neck Yoke on when she strayed away, and was seen about ten Days ago, near Bull Run Church, in Fauquier County. Whoever will bring her to me in Dumfries shall have 50s. Reward. GEORGE GRAHAM.
WANTED IMMEDIATELY, TWO GOOD JOURNEYMEN SHOEMAKERS Who will meet with good Encouragement by applying to WILLIAMSBURG, } THOMAS SKINNER. June 2, 1775.
COMMITTED to the Gaol of Elizabeth City County, a Negro Man named BEN, of a yellow Complexion, pitted with the Smallpox, about 22 Years old, 5 Feet 7 or 8 Inches high, and has on an Osnaburg Shirt, and white Negro Cotton Jacket and Breeches. He says he belongs to James Prato, of the Island of Bermudas. The Owner is desired to prove his Property, pay Charges, and take him away. JOHN M c LACHLEN, Gaoler. WILLIAMSBURG, June 3, 1775.
DURING my Absence from this Colony, Mr. William Maitland will transact the Business of Burfar to the College of William and Mary, as also my own Business, under the Direction of John Blair, Thomas Everard, and John Tazewell, Esquires, who have been pleased to accept of a Power of Attorney from me for that purpose. ROBERT MILLER.
I INTEND to leave the Colony as soon as possible. All Persons having any demands against me are desired to make them known immediately; and those who are indebted I hope will not fail to discharge their Accounts this Meeting. I have for Sale a Mulatto Fellow about 18 Years of Age, used to House and Garden Work, and taking Care of Horses; also sundry Pieces of exceeding good Mahogany and Walnut Furniture, two full blooded Mares, 15 Hands high, with their Foals, one Year old, by Partner, remarkably large and fine. The above may be seen, and the Terms known by applying to me in Williamsburg. HENRY MORSE.
TO BE SOLD, To the highest Bidder, on the Premises, on TUESDAY the 1st of AUGUST next.
ALL that valuable Tract of LAND late the Property of Matthew Branch, deceased, lying on James River, in the County of Chesterfield, containing about 500 Acres. One Half the Purchase Money to be paid on the Delivery of the Land, and the other Half twelve Months after. A good Title will be made by RIDLEY BRANCH, and MATTHEW BRANCH. WARWICK, May 29, 1775.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Nansemond, some Time in May 1774, a Virginia born Negro Fellow named WILL, about 35 Years old, about 5 Feet 10 Inches high, very black, stout, and well made, has several Scars, one across each Ear, and one on his Chin. He has been seen in King William County, with a Negro Woman of Mr. William Allegre's. I will give FIVE POUNDS to any Person who delivers the said Fellow to me in Nansemond, or TEN DOLLARS to have him secured in any of his Majesty's Gaols, so that I may get him again. He is outlawed; and as he is very artful, it is apprehended he may make his Escape from those who take him, if they are not particularly careful. HENRY GODWIN.
SOUTHAMPTON County, April 19, 1775. STRAYED, or STOLEN, from the Subscriber, on the 16th of December last, a BAY HORSE about 14 Hands high, with a Star in his Forehead, and a Snip on his Nose; his right Eye is out, paces naturally, branded on the near Buttock O, but not plain, and had a Bell on. Whoever contrives the said Horse to me, or gives me such Intelligence of him as will enable me to get him again, shall receive a Reward of 20s. ALEXANDER MURRAY.
TAKEN up, in Amelia, a BAY MARE and COLT, the latter about a Year old this Spring, with a Blaze in her Face, and four white Feet; the Mare appears to be old, has a Star in her Forehead, some Saddle Spots on her Back, and branded on the near Buttock P, with some other letter before it which cannot be made out. Posted, and appraised to 9l. JOHN ATKERSON.
TAKEN up, in Cumberland, a DARK BAY MARE about 10 Years old, 4 Feet 4 Inches high, branded on the near Shoulder and Buttock A, and on the off Shoulder PW. Posted, and appraised to 8l. (1) WILLIAM SMITH.
TAKEN up, in Stafford, a BLACK COW with a white Belly, marked with a Crop and two Slits in her right Ear, and a Swallowfork in the left Ear, about 6 Years old; also a BLACK BULL, with a white Belly, his right Ear marked with a Crop and Underkeel, and his left with a Crop, supposed to be two Years old. Posted and appraised, the Cow to 45s. and the Bull to 15s. JOHN MOUNTJOY.
TAKEN up, in Buckingham, two MARES, viz. a DARK BAY about 4 Feet 5 Inches high, 5 or 6 Years old, trots and paces, her Mane hangs on the right Side, branded on the near Shoulder and Buttock, and on the near Jaw, \Omega ; the other is a SORREL, about 4 Feet 4 or 5 Inches high, 5 or 6 Years old, her Mane hangs on the right Side, has a Switch Tail, which is much whiter than her Mane, a small Blaze on her Face down to her Nose, and only trots. Posted and appraised, the former to 3l. and the latter to 10l. WILLIAM GILLIAM.
TAKEN up, in Buckingham, a BLACK MARE about 3 Years old, her Mane hangs on the right Side, has some white Hairs in her Face, Mane, and Tail, paces and trots, and has on a bell, which is cracked in several places, and is tied with a Leather String. Posted, and appraised to 15l. ISAAC AGEE.
TAKEN up, in Caroline, a brindled COW, marked with a Crop and Underkeel in the right Ear. Posted, and appraised to 50s. WILLIAM REDD.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, on the north Fork of Otter River, a SORREL MARE about 3 Years old, 4 Feet 8 Inches high, with a light Mane and Tail, and a large Blaze in her Face, branded on the off Buttock and near Shoulder M. Posted, and appraised to 10l. (1) JOHN JAMESON.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a white and black COW, marked with an Underkeel in the left Ear, and a Half Crop in the right, appears to be pretty old. Posted, and appraised to 50s. JOHN STIFF.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, on the Waters of Meadow Creek, a middle sized BAY MARE, with about a five Shilling Bell on, branded on the near Shoulder S, trots naturally, and is about 4 Feet 3 or 4 Inches high. Posted, and appraised to 8l. 5s. WALTER DEWITT.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, on Fleming's Mountain, a BLACK HORSE about 4 Feet 7 Inches high, 6 Years old, branded on the near Shoulder and Buttock, and on the off Shoulder, O; he has a Mark, or Scar, on the near Buttock, under the Letter, and trots naturally. Posted, and appraised to 10l. WILLIAM HUMPHREY.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, from Fredericksburg, on Saturday Evening the 30th of April last, a small BRIGHT BAY MARE about 13 1/2 Hands high, 6 Years old, trots and paces, has a Switch Tail, is a little marked on the Breast with a Collar, but not branded. She was bred near King William Courthouse, and very probably may be gone that Way. Whoever delivers the said Mare to me, in Dumfries, shall have FOUR DOLLARS Reward. ADAM JORDAN.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in New Kent, the 27th of April last, a Negro Fellow named MICHAEL, about 25 Years old, 5 Feet 7 Inches high, had on a Cotton Waistcoat, an Osnaburg Shirt, Leather Breeches, and a Pair of black Stockings. He walks remarkably straight, and has been in Williamsburg offering to hire himself. Whoever brings him to me shall have 40s. Reward, or 20s. if secured in any Gaol. SAMUEL APPERSON.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, in Blandford, on the 4th of March last, a dark bay Mare, 7 or 8 Years old, about 14 Hands high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, cat-hamm'd, paces naturally, has some Saddle Spots on the near Side, and branded WK, or WR, on the near Shoulder and Buttock. Also a small sorrel FILLY went away with her, two Years old this Spring, had a Snip on the right Nostril, but neither docked nor branded. They were seen on Rowanty, and are imagined to have gone towards Walker's Mill, on Nottoway, or Hick's Ford, on Meherrin. Whoever will bring the said Mares to me shall be handsomely rewarded for their Trouble. (1f) DAVID BLACK.
TO BE RENTED, A large Dwelling-House In RICHMOND TOWN, 40 Feet by 20, with two rooms below and two above, a Garden newly paled in, a Kitchen, and all other Outhouses necessary for a Family. The Situation is as pleasant as any in Town. The Terms may be known by applying to the Printers hereof, or to the Subscriber, in said Town. (1f) GABRIEL GALT.
TO BE SOLD, THREE Thousand Acres of well timbered LAND, near Newmarket, in Caroline County, whereon are two Plantations in good Repair, with proper and convenient Edifices for farming or making of Tobacco. For Terms apply to the Subscriber. (1f) JOHN BAYLOR.
TO BE SOLD, 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 of King William, Mr. John Armistead of Caroline, and Mr. John Baylor, Executors. (1f)
For SALE, and very CHEAP, THE Tract of LAND whereon I now live, in the lower End of Caroline County, that contains 470 Acres, and is known to be very good. The Improvements are, a new Dwelling-House 32 by 28 Feet, with three Dormants on a Side, two Fireplaces below, and one above, a good Cellar, the Kitchen 24 by 16 Feet, with all other Outhouses quite new, and the Plantation in fine Order for Cropping. Its Situation is equal to any Forest Place whatever. I will give Credit till next Christmas, when Possession may be had. (1f) LE ROY HIPKINS.