The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1775-05-06 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
With the FRESHEST ADVICES,
FOREIGN and DOMESTICK.
IN CIVITATE LIBERA LINGUAM MENTEMQUE
LIBERAS ESSE DEBERE. — Suet. in Tib. S. 28.
PRINTED by JOHN DIXON and
WM. HUNTER, at the POST OFFICE.
ALL Persons may be supplied with this Paper at 12/6 a Year, and have Advertisements (of a moderate Length) inserted for 3/ the first Week, and 2/ each Week after. — Printing Work done at this Office in the neatest Manner, with Care and Expedition.
NORTH CAROLINA,
At a CONVENTION of DELEGATES for the respective counties and towns within this province, held at NEWBURN the 6th day of APRIL, 1775:
THOMAS MACKNIGHT, a Delegate for the county of Currituck, having been called upon to sign (with the other members of this convention) the association approved of by the Continental Congress, thereupon refused, and withdrew himself.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this convention, that from the disingenuous and equivocal behaviour of the said Thomas Macknight, it is manifest his intentions are inimical to the cause of American liberty; and we do hold him up as a proper object of contempt to this continent, and recommend that every person break off all connexion, and have no future commercial intercourse or dealing with him.
Resolved, that the above resolve be published in the gazettes of this and the neighbouring colonies.
A true copy from the minutes.
Attested by ANDREW KNOX, Clerk.
WE, the subscribers, Samuel Jarvis, Solomon Perkins, and Nathan Poyner, late representatives for the county of Currituck, in a convention of deputies for the province of North Carolina, held at Newbern on the 3d day of April, 1775, and Jonathan Herring and Isaac Gregory, representatives in the said convention for the county of Pasquotank, having found ourselves under the disagreeable necessity of withdrawing from the said meeting, and being denied the justice of having our reasons entered on the journals of their proceedings (that is, by an express refusal to the representatives for Currituck, which was the only cause that those for Pasquotank did not apply) have only this resource left for vindicating our conduct to the world, and rescuing the character of a Gentleman we greatly esteem from undeserved obloquy and reproach. The facts, upon which the necessity we were unhappily reduced to was founded, are simply these:
Upon its being moved and seconded in the course of the business of the said convention, that a vote should pass, expressing a high approbation of the continental association, Mr. Thomas Macknight, a representative for the county of Currituck aforesaid, got up and declared, that he was greatly concerned he could not heartily concur in the vote proposed to be passed, on account of particular circumstances in his situation, which obliged him to dislike some part of the association; that he owed a debt in Britain, which the operation of the non-exportation agreement would disable him to pay, and that he could not approve of a conduct in a collective capacity, which, as an individual, he should blush to acknowledge; that he thought it a duty he owed to his own sincerity to mention this sentiment, but did not mean to obstruct the good purposes proposed by an union of measures; that he would cheerfully comply with the non-consumption and non-importation agreement, and should give a passive obedience to the non-exportation article; that an individual, as a member of society, ought to conform his actions to the general will of it, but that opinions could not be altered without conviction, or insincerely expressed without dishonesty. In consequence, however, of this declaration, notwithstanding Mr. Macknight expressly said, that he desired not any disapprobation of the measure to be expressed by that body, and was only willing to acquit himself of his duty, by declaring in convention his own sentiments of it, it was proposed and carried, that a declaration to the purport above-mentioned should be signed by all the members. All of them accordingly subscribed their names to the resolve, highly approving, &c. as entered on the journal, except Mr. Macknight, who desired he might have leave to reduce his reasons to writing, that they might be entered on the journals together with his refusal, which was agreed to; but on his presenting them the next day, when called upon again to subscribe, they would not suffer them even to be read: But the question being proposed, whether his signing that "he would conform" to the continental association would be satisfactory, they divided, fourteen counties to fourteen, and the Moderator declined giving the casting vote. While the convention was waiting till the representative of a town, who was sent for on purpose to decide the question, should come in, Mr. Macknight was informed that it would give general satisfaction if he would insert in the declaration the word "accede;" which, on his agreeing to do, two members immediately voted in his favour, who had before given their votes against him, and this now carried the question for him; but the minority being greatly discontented, several of them declared, that if any subscription, different from theirs, was accepted from him, they would withdraw from the convention. Upon which he declared immediately (being, as we conceive, heated by the violence and arbitrariness of his opponents conduct) that, to cut the matter short, and prevent farther dissensions in the convention on his account, he would withdraw himself from them, thinking, as he has since assured us (and we have never had any reason to doubt his veracity) that such a step in one individual, who still left his constituents represented in convention, would not be so prejudicial to the purpose of the meeting, as if it was taken by the many who threatened it. Upon which the vote of censure and civil excommunication was proposed, and passed by a majority, declaredly on account of his intentions, which we however believe to have been always friendly to the cause of American liberty, his actions evidently shewing to us, who are his neighbours, the uprightness of his intentions. Nor did we observe any disingenuous or equivocal behaviour in Mr. Macknight, to warrant the censure of the convention in the smallest degree; but some of those who were with him before being now offended by his withdrawing from amongst them, joined the other party.
The members for Currituck, on the last day of the convention, offered the reasons of their dissent and withdrawing; but no kind of attention being paid to them by the convention, two of the three Pasquotank members being also ready to present theirs, thought it useless, more especially as the Moderator was hastening to sign the journals, the majority ordering him to do so, as we believe, least the dissentients should appear on the journal; and we know that many were determined to dissent from so unjust a censure. We, however, withdrew; and declare that we do not consider ourselves, or our constituents, bound by the proceedings of this convention, because, in other respects relative to the public, this convention have acted contrary to the sentiments of our constituents, expressly declared to us, and have gone beyond the powers with which we were invested, to act in their behalf.
The above being a true state, in substance, of the proceedings we complain of, we appeal to the world, whether the violence of insisting on a consistency of opinion in every individual instance, of all the representatives of a province present, or an insincere declaration to be subscribed contrary to a man's own conviction, at a time when he would most expressly have agreed to regulate his conduct by the general voice (the greatest submission ever exacted, as the subscribers believe, except in despotic and tyrannical governments) the unjustifiable precipitation of a great number of the minority, when defeated in their purposes, which made Mr. Macknight, upon principles of affection to the cause they were nominated to support, offer to withdraw rather than occasion a total schism in their proceedings: Their refusing to receive reasons themselves had called for, and agreed to enter on their journals, and others which members had ready, and as we perceive had a right to present, and were entitled to notice, as they were calculated to shew the world their motives for withdrawing from this convention, whether these extraordinary, rash, and unwarrantable proceedings, together with the other reasons we have assigned, do not leave us justified for withdrawing from this convention, inasmuch as they have done more than our constituents warranted us to engage for, and a great number of the members would not confine themselves to the rules laid down by the Congress, but required and insisted upon other terms of union than that respectable body, whose directions they have all promised to obey, deemed necessary, or could themselves individually assent to.
SAMUEL JARVIS, SOLOMON PERKINS, NATHAN POYNER, ISAAC GREGORY, JONA. HERRING.
N. B. The convention having omitted to publish the vote which Mr. Macknight refused to subscribe, for the information of such as have not an opportunity of seeing the journals, it is inserted here.
RESOLVED, that this convention do highly approve of the said association, and do, for themselves, firmly agree to adhere by the said association, and recommend it to their constituents that they likewise adhere firmly to the same. In full approbation and testimony whereof the members of this convention subscribed their names.
The continental association was not signed by the members in this convention, as might be presumed from the publication of their Clerk.
PHILADELPHIA, April 27, 1775.
Extracts of Letters from BOSTON, per post.
BOSTON, April 19, 1775.
I HAVE taken up my pen to inform you, that last night, at about eleven o'clock, about one thousand of the best troops in a very secret manner embarked on board a number of boats at the bottom of the common, and went up Cambridge river and landed; in the mean time they stopped every person's going over the neck or any ferry; however, we soon found a way to get some men to alarm the country. From thence they marched to Lexington, where they saw a number of men exercising. They ordered them to disperse, and immediately fired on them, killed eight men on the spot, and marched to Concord. This alarmed the country so, that it seemed as if men came down from the clouds. This news coming to town, the General sent out another thousand men with a large train of artillery. In the mean time those troops at Concord had set fire to the courthouse there. We then had our men collected so, that an engagement immediately ensued, and the King's troops retreated very fast, until they were reinforced with the last thousand that the General sent; but they did not stand long before the whole body gave way and retreated very fast, and our men kept up at their heels, loading and firing until they got to Charlestown, when our men thought it not prudent to come any further, fearing the ships of war would be ordered to fire on Boston and Charlestown. They have gained a complete victory, and by the best information I can get, most of the officers and soldiers are cut off. There were two waggons, one loaded with powder and ball, and the other with provisions, guarded by seventeen men and an officer, going to the army, when six of our men way laid them, killed two, wounded two, took the officer prisoner, and the others took to the woods, and they brought off the waggons. The engagement began about twelve o'clock and continued until seven; in the mean time they retreated twenty miles. I have endeavoured to give you a few of the particulars as near as I am able, considering the situation we are in, not knowing but what the troops may have liberty to turn their revenge on us. We have now at least ten thousand men round this town. It has been a most distressing day with us, but I pray God we may never have reason to be called to such another.
Another of April 20.
Yesterday produced a scene the most shocking New England ever beheld. Last Saturday, P. M. orders were sent to the several regiments quartered here, not to let their grenadiers or light-
infantry do any duty till further orders; upon which the inhabitants conjectured that some secret expedition was on foot, and being upon the look-out, they observed those bodies on the move between 10 and 11 o'clock on Tuesday night, observing a perfect silence in the march, towards the point opposite Phipp's farm, where boats were in waiting, that conveyed them over. The men appointed to alarm the country on such occasions got over by stealth as early as the troops, and took their different routes.
The first advice we had was about 8 o'clock in the morning, when it was reported that the troops had fired upon and killed five men in Lexington.
Previous to which an officer came express to his Excellency General Gage, when, between 8 and 9 o'clock, a brigade marched out under the command of Earl Piercy, consisting of the marines, the Welch Fusileers, the 4th, 47th, and 38th regiments, and two field pieces. About 12 o'clock it was given out by the General's Aid de Camp, that no person was killed, and that a single gun had not been fired, which report was variously believed. But, between one and two, certain accounts came that 8 were killed outright, and 14 wounded of the inhabitants of Lexington, who had about 40 men drawn out early in the morning, near the meeting-house, to exercise; the party of the light infantry and grenadiers, to the number of about 800, came up to them and ordered them to disperse; the commander of them replied that they were innocently amusing themselves with exercise; that they had not any ammunition with them, and therefore should not molest or disturb them. Which answer not satisfying, the troops fired upon and killed three or four; the others took to their heels, and the troops continued to fire. A few took refuge in the meeting-house, when the soldiers shewed up the windows, and pointed their guns in, and killed three there. Thus much is the best account I can learn of the beginning of the fatal day.
You must naturally suppose that such a piece of cruelty would rouse the country, — allowing the report to be true: The troops continued their march to Concord, entered the town, and refreshed themselves in the meeting and town-house. In the latter place they found some ammunition and stores belonging to the country, which finding they could not bring away, by reason of the country people having occupied all the posts around them; they therefore set fire to the house, which the people extinguished; they set fire a second time, which brought on a general engagement, at about 11 o'clock. The troops took two pieces of cannon from the countrymen, but their numbers increasing, they soon regained them, and the troops were obliged to retreat towards town.
At noon they were joined by the other brigades under Earl Piercy, when another very warm engagement came on at Lexington, which the troops could not stand, therefore were obliged to continue their retreat, which they did with the bravery becoming British soldiers; but the country was in a manner desperate; not regarding their cannon in the least, and followed on till 7 in the evening, by which time they got into Charlestown, when they left off the pursuit, least they might injure the inhabitants. I stood upon the hills in town, and saw the engagement very plain, which was very bloody, for 7 hours. It is conjectured, that one half of the soldiers at least are killed; the last brigade was sent over the ferry in the evening to secure their retreat, where they are this morning entrenching themselves upon Bunkin hill till they could get a safe retreat to this town.
It is impossible to learn any particulars, as the communication between town and country is at present broke off; they were till ten last night bringing over their wounded, several of which are since dead, two officers in particular. When I reflect and consider that the fight between those, whose parents but a few years ago were brothers, I shudder, at the thought, and there is no knowing where our calamities will end.
Another letter has the following:
The troops continuing their route to Concord, the country by the time of getting there, were alarmed, and our people taking to a hill, began firing upon the troops, with about 200 men, which number receiving continual additions from every part of the country, the troops were all the remainder of the day on their retreat to Charlestown; and many of the officers, who have returned, say, they never were in a hotter engagement. Many are killed on both sides, and were left on the road; neither side having time to collect their dead.
Letters from New York say, that the killed among the regulars amounted to 500; others say, Lord Piercy and General Haldimand were among the dead; others say they were not.
Extract of a letter from NEW YORK, forwarded by the different committees.
Fourteen regiments ordered to New York; that city to be the place of arms, and fortified. All communication between that city and the southern and eastern provinces to be cut off, so as to prevent any junction. The people are now united to a man, and concerting means to prevent the above schemes being executed; but write they need immediate assistance from the southward, ere the arrival of the above troops. They are embodying themselves.
VIRGINIA.
AT a committee held at the courthouse for the county of Southampton, the 8th day of April, 1775, agreeable to the 11th article of the Continental Congress, present, Edwin Gray, Chairman; Thomas Williamson, Richard Kello, James Ridley, George Gurley, Clerk; Benjamin Ruffin, Peter Butts, Benjamin Clements, jun. Joshua Nicholson, Thomas Edmunds, Benjamin Ruffin, jun. and Thomas Blunt.
The proceedings of the late Convention, held at the town of Richmond, on the 20th of March, were laid before the committee, and being read, and maturely considered,
Resolved unanimously, that this committee doth entirely approve the proceedings of the said Convention, and that they will use every opportunity to recommend, in the strongest manner, the several measures then adopted, to the people of this country.

Resolved, that the several members of this committee, in their respective districts (as laid off by a former committee) endeavour to collect, by subscription, the sum of ten pounds for encouraging Mr. Tait's useful scheme for making salt, and also fifteen pounds for the use of the deputies to represent this colony in Continental Congress, and that, such money as may be collected, be immediately paid by the several collectors into the hands of Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor, to be by them transmitted to Robert Carter Nicholas, Esq; for the purposes aforesaid.
Resolved, that Monday the 17th of this instant be appointed for the election of Delegates, at the courthouse, to represent this county in Provincial Congress, and that a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the clergymen of the different parishes of this county, requesting them to publish the same in their respective churches; and also that the clerk of this committee advertise the same at the courthouse door, on the next court day.
Resolved, that Mr. Benjamin Clements, jun. Mr. Benjamin Ruffin, jun. and Mr. Joshua Nicholson, or any two of them, be appointed to conduct the election of the said Delegates.
Resolved, that the thanks of this committee be given to Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor, our worthy and patriotic Delegates, at the same time assuring them that they have conducted themselves entirely to their satisfaction in the discharge of that important trust.
Resolved, that this committee be adjourned to Thursday the 13th day of this instant.
THURSDAY, April 13. Present, Edwin Gray, Chairman; Henry Taylor, Richard Kello, Thomas Williamson, James Ridley, Benjamin Ruffin, Benjamin Clements, jun. Benjamin Ruffin, jun. Thomas Blunt, Thomas Edmunds, Joshua Nicholson, and John Thomas Blow.
This committee taking under their consideration the necessity of providing the militia of this county with ammunition, and finding an improbability of collecting a sum sufficient for that purpose in so short a time as they deem necessary, from the people of this county, do therefore resolve, that each member will most cheerfully deposit the sum of ten pounds in the hands of Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor, or either of them, for the purpose aforesaid.
Resolved, that Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor inform the absent members of this committee of the preceding resolution, requesting them to contribute the sum of ten pounds each for the purpose therein mentioned.
Resolved, that Mr. Edwin Gray and Mr. Henry Taylor, or either of them, do, as soon as they have received the money so subscribed, or any other sums that may be voluntarily advanced, make application to the committee appointed by the late Convention for procuring ammunition, &c. for as much powder and lead as the money they have received will amount to, in the proportion of one pound of powder to four pound of lead.
Resolved, that the powder and lead, when procured, shall be stored in such convenient place or places as shall be agreed on by this committee, and be liable to any directions of the same.
Silas Kirby, James Ingram, Josiah Kirby, and John Simmons, voluntarily appeared before this committee, and acknowledged they had been guilty of violating the 8th article of the association, by gaming at the said Silas Kirby's, and winning a small sum of money of a certain Benjamin O'Donnello, a few days before; that it was an error they were unthinkingly led into, and are convinced of its evil tendency; that they are willing to refund every thing won by them, and they now assure this committee of a more strict compliance for the future with the several articles of the general association. This committee therefore resolve, that the said Silas Kirby, James Ingram, Josiah Kirby, and John Simmons, have been guilty of violating the association; yet, in consideration of their candid behaviour before this committee, and their ever conforming to the association before this their breach of it, hope the public will join with them in considering the aforesaid persons as not inimical to American liberty.
Resolved, that the Clerk of this committee transmit a copy of the proceedings thereof to Mess. Dixon and Hunter, requesting them to publish the same.
EDWIN GRAY, Chairman. SAMUEL KELLO, Clk. Com.
Narrative of facts relative to John Norton and Sons shipping two half chests of tea in the Virginia, Howard Esten, humbly addressed to the inhabitants of Virginia.
JOHN NORTON and Sons, some time in the month of June 1774, received a letter from Mess. John Prentis and company, covering an invoice of a cargo of goods, in which were contained two certain articles, viz. a chest of hyson tea, and another common green ditto. In the course of the same month, they received likewise another letter, with a copy of the said invoice, in which were inserted the same articles of tea. However, J. Norton and Sons, being uneasy at the order, did not give it out till the month of August, hoping and expecting they should have received countermanding orders with respect to the shipping the same; but none such ever came to hand, though they had a letter from Mess. Prentis and company, dated the 26th of June, and afterwards a copy thereof, both of which were received in the month of August. Thus disagreeably circumstanced, J. Norton and Sons, much against their inclinations, complied with shipping the two chests of tea in the latter end of the month of August, amounting to the precise quantity of 154 pounds nett; no other chests of tea being on board, to the best of their knowledge and belief. Their letters and invoices were made up, and dated the 31st of August; about which time some other goods offering, J. Norton and Sons were induced to detain the ship fourteen days longer than they intended. On the 15th of September, in the evening, they received a letter from Mr. John Backhouse of Liverpool, by the post, dated the 12th of the same month, enclosing a copy of the Virginia association entered into the beginning of August, which they verily believe was the first account received in any part of England. Under these circumstances, how could J. Norton and Sons act? The ship Virginia was then cleared out, and at Gravesend, and the commencement of the non-importation agreement fixed for the 1st of November, a time scarce thought sufficient for her arrival in Virginia. To apply, therefore, for permission to land the tea (could it have been obtained) was thought inadvisable, since, during the course of such an application, the time allowed by the association for importation was running on fast, and their correspondents might have been subject to many inconveniences therefrom, in case the ship did not arrive in time; Therefore, it was not attempted. Captain Esten left London very early on the morning of the 16th of September, and passed through the Downs the next day; and, that no step which prudence could suggest might be omitted, he was directed to consult with the committee, and other Gentlemen in Virginia, immediately on his arrival, and honestly to lay the case before them; and that, if he found it was disagreeable to the inhabitants that the tea should be landed, stored, or returned in the ship, he was then to propose destroying it; but by no means attempt the landing it without leave. From such a plain and faithful narration of facts, and from a conviction of the candour which they possess to whom these lines are addressed, J. Norton and Sons are induced to hope that the imputation of injustice to America will cease, that truth will trample over calumny or misrepresentation, and that they shall recover that place which they formerly held in the esteem of their friends and countrymen in Virginia.
JOHN NORTON & SONS.
London, Jan. 5, 1775.
Since writing the above, on reading the Virginia Gazette of the 24th of November last, it gives me infinite concern to find that I have unhappily fallen under the heavy suspicion of the Gentlemen of the committee for York and Gloucester counties, by inadvertently shipping two half chests of tea on board the Virginia, Howard Esten master, ordered by Mess. Prentis and company. My excuse is set forth in the foregoing narration of facts, which I submit to the committee in particular, and the public in general, and hope I shall be acquitted from any evil intentions of prejudicing a people I have a great esteem for, and among whom I have lived (I may say) the happiest part of my life. A censure also for a supposed contempt of the resolutions entered into by the worthy members of the late Assembly, respecting the importations of tea into Virginia, being passed upon me by the above-mentioned committee, I must confess that I thought all the resolves made at that time were preparatory only to those intended at the general meeting in August, that they were then to receive a sanction from the Congress, and that therefore particularly alluded to, in the hurry of business, entirely escaped my notice; for which I am heartily sorry. I must sincerely declare, that, in shipping the tea, there was not the least design intended of unbrauge to the inhabitants of Virginia, or lending an aid to government towards raising a revenue in America; that my avowed principles (which I now publish) are, that the Parliament of Great Britain have not the least shadow of right to tax America; that I never will, directly or indirectly, deviate from these principles, which I have always professed, and which ought to govern every person that has any regard for the liberty of America. And I also further declare, that so far from having any connexion with the Ministry, that my person is even unknown to any of them, and that I never was in their presence, except when I attended about the copper coinage for Virginia, in which I was employed instead of a better agent.
London, Jan. 16, 1775. JOHN NORTON.
In answer to an objection made to my charging Mr. Prentis the duty on the two half chests of tea in the invoice, it has ever been the custom of the house so to do; as, by that means, the whole amount of costs and charges appear to the persons debit in one sum in their account current. The Captain draws for the amount of the duty when he pays the same in Virginia; but, in the case of Mr. Prentis, he must now have credit for it. And as to the re-landing of the tea at Gravesend, I am credibly informed (the ship being cleared) could not have been allowed, bond and security having been given at the excise office for the exportation thereof some time before the ship was cleared.
KING GEORGE, April 17, 1775. THE committee being informed that Mr. Austin Brokenbrough was counteracting the measures of the Continental Congress, ordered him to be summoned to answer the complaint, which was done in the following terms:
SIR, You are accused before the committee of disregarding your duty as an associator,—Associator!—and attempting to prejudice the people of your neighbourhood, and others with whom you have communication, against the association,—Yes, but I never went out of my way to do it.—and to draw into contempt the authority and conduct of the committee.—That I have, and always shall.—The truth of this charge the committee cannot avoid inquiring into, and have ordered us to give you notice to attend the monthly meeting at the courthouse, on the next court day.—That I shall not.—that you may have an opportunity of making your defence; and, if the charge is groundless, of evincing your innocence.—Innocence!—We are your humble servants, March 8, } THOMAS TURNER, Wm. ROBINSON, 1775. } THOMAS JETT, JOHN WASHINGTON.
On the day appointed, Mr. Brokenbrough failing to attend, Mr. Daniel Briscoe, the person who delivered him the notice, was called, and being sworn, declared, that he read the above notice to Mr. Brokenbrough, at least ten days before the meeting of the committee, and left him a copy, who made the replies inserted in the body of the notice. These answers confute the truth of the charge, and sufficiently indicate the disposition of the man, whose obnoxious behaviour is also well known, and for some time past has been observed with concern by several members of the committee. To reclaim from error, rather than punish, would be the choice of the committee. Opportunity was designedly afforded Mr. Brokenbrough, by a short delay in the publication, to make atonement, and avoid public censure. The well-meant indulgence has been slighted. Duty now requires that the truth of the case be published, to the end that Mr. Brokenbrough may be publicly known, and universally contemned as an enemy to American liberty. By order of the committee,
ANDREW WODROW, Clerk.
At a COUNCIL held at the PALACE May 2, 1775. Present his EXCELLENCY the GOVERNOR, THOMAS NELSON, RICHARD CORBIN, WILLIAM BYRD, RALPH WORMELEY, junior, Esquires, JOHN CAMM, Clerk, and JOHN PAGE, Esquire.
The GOVERNOR was pleased to address himself to the BOARD in the following manner:
GENTLEMEN, COMMOTIONS and insurrections have suddenly been excited among the people, which threaten the very existence of his Majesty's government in this colony; and no other cause is assigned for such dangerous measures than that the gunpowder which had, some time past, been brought from on board one of the King's ships to which it belonged and was deposited in the magazine of this city, hath been removed, which, it is known, was done by my order, to whom, under the constitutional right of the crown which I represent, the custody and disposal of all public stores of arms and ammunition alone belong; and, whether I acted in this manner (as my indispensable duty required) to anticipate the malevolent designs of the enemies of order and government, or to prevent the attempts of any enterprising Negroes; the powder being still as ready and convenient for being distributed for the defence of the country upon any emergency as it was before, which I have publicly engaged to do, the expediency of the step I have taken is equally manifest; and therefore it must be evident that the same head-strong and designing people, who have already but too successfully employed their artifices in deluding his Majesty's faithful subjects, and in seducing them from their duty and allegiance, have seized this entirely groundless subject of complaint, only to enslave afresh, and to precipitate as many as possible of the unhappy into acts, which involving them in the same guilt, their corruptors think may bind them to the same plans and schemes which are unquestionably meditated in this colony, for subverting the present, and erecting a new form of government.
Induced by an unaffected regard for the general welfare of the people, whom I have had the honour of governing, as well as actuated by duty and zeal in the service of his Majesty, I call upon you, his council in this colony, for your advice upon this pressing occasion, and I submit to you, whether a proclamation should not issue conformable to what I have now suggested; and, before our fellow subjects abandon themselves totally to extremities, which must inevitably draw down an accumulation of every human misery upon their unhappy country, to warn them of their danger, to remind them of the sacred oaths of allegiance which they have taken, and to call up in their breasts that loyalty and affection, which upon so many occasions have been professed by them to their King, their lawful Sovereign; and further, to urge and exhort, in particular, those whose criminal proceedings on this occasion have been, and are still, so alarming, to return to their duty, and a due obedience to the laws; and, in general, all persons whatsoever to rely upon the goodness and tenderness of our most gracious
Sovereign to all his subjects, equally, and upon the wisdom of his councils, for a redress of all their real grievances, which redress can only be obtained by constitutional applications; and, lastly, to enjoin all orders of people to submit, as becomes good subjects, to the legal authority of their government, in the protection of which their own happiness is most interested.
The council thereupon acquainted his Excellency, that as the matters he had been pleased to communicate to them were of the greatest consequence, they desire time to deliberate thereon till the next day.
At a COUNCIL held at the PALACE May 3, 1775. Present, his Excellency the Governor, Thomas Nelson, Richard Corbin, William Byrd, Ralph Wormeley, jun. Esquires, John Camm, Clerk, and John Page, Esquire.
The Board, resuming the consideration of the subject laid before them yesterday by the Governor, advised him to issue the following proclamation; and the same was ordered accordingly.
By his EXCELLENCY the Right Hon. JOHN EARL of DUNMORE, his Majesty's Lieutenant and Governor General of the Colony and Dominion of VIRGINIA, and Vice Admiral of the same:
A PROCLAMATION. VIRGINIA, to wit.
WHEREAS there is too much reason to suppose that some persons, in the different parts of this colony, are disaffected to his Majesty's government, and by their weight and credit with the people are endeavouring to bring the country into such a situation as to afford them the fairest prospect of effecting a change in the form of it, covering their wicked designs under the specious appearance of defending their liberties, and have taken advantage of the unhappy ferment, which themselves have raised in the minds of their fellow subjects, in prosecution of their dangerous designs to oppose the most undoubted prerogative of the King, which in a late instance I thought it expedient to exert by removing on board his Majesty's ship the Powey, a small quantity of gunpowder, belonging to his Majesty, from the magazine in this city; I have thought fit, by advice of his Majesty's council, to issue this my proclamation, with a view of undeceiving the deluded, and of exposing to the unwary the destruction into which they may be precipitated, if they suffer themselves to be longer guided by such infatuated counsels.
Although I consider myself, under the authority of the crown, the only constitutional judge, in what manner the munition, provided for the protection of the people of this government, is to be disposed of for that end; yet for effecting the salutary objects of this proclamation, and removing from the minds of his Majesty's subjects the groundless suspicions they have imbibed, I think proper to declare that the apprehensions which seemed to prevail throughout this whole country of an intended insurrection of the slaves, who had been seen in large numbers, in the night time, about the magazine, and my knowledge of its being a very insecure depositary, were my inducements to that measure, and I chose the night as the properest season, because I knew the temper of the times, and the misinterpretations of my design which would be apt to prevail if the thing should be known. Acting under these motives, I certainly rather deserved the thanks of the country than their reproaches. But, whenever the present ferment shall subside, and it shall become necessary to put arms into the hands of the militia, for the defence of the people against a foreign enemy or intestine insurgents, I shall be as ready as on a late occasion to exert my best abilities in the service of the country. In the mean time, as it is indispensably necessary to maintain order and the authority of the laws, and thereby the dignity of his Majesty's government, I exhort and require, in his Majesty's name, all his faithful subjects, to leave no expedient unassayed which may tend to that happy end. Such as are not to be influenced by the love of order for its own sake, and the blessings it is always productive of, would do well to consider the internal weakness of this colony, as well as the dangers to which it is exposed from a savage enemy; who, from the most recent advices I have received from the frontier inhabitants, are ready to renew their hostilities against the people of this country. But, as on the one hand, nothing can justify men, without proper authority, in a rapid recurrence to arms, nothing excise resistance to the executive power in the due enforcement of law, so on the other, nothing but such resistance and outrageous proceedings shall ever compel me to avail myself of any means that may carry the appearance of severity.
Anxious to restore peace and harmony to this distracted country, and to induce a firmer reliance on the goodness and tenderness of our most gracious Sovereign to all his subjects equally, and on the wisdom of his councils for a redress of all their real grievances, which can only be obtained by loyal and constitutional applications, I again call upon and require all his Majesty's liege subjects, and especially all magistrates and other officers, both civil and military, to exert themselves in removing the discontents, and suppressing the spirit of faction, which prevail among the people, that a dutiful submission to the laws of the land may be strictly observed, which shall ever be the rule of my conduct, as the interest and happiness of this dominion ever have been, and shall continue to be, the objects of my administration.
GIVEN under my hand, and the seal of the colony, at Williamsburg, this 3d day of May, 1775, and in the 15th year of his Majesty's reign.
DUNMORE. GOD SAVE THE KING.
LONDON, Jan. 28.
YESTERDAY the committee of merchants, traders, and others, concerned in the American commerce, attended at the House of Commons, and the House having resolved itself into a committee of the whole House, according to the order of Monday last, Mr. Thomas Woodbridge, one of the committee of American merchants, was called to the bar, when he addressed the committee in the following words:
"I am directed by the committee of merchants, of the city of London, concerned in the commerce of America, to represent to this Honourable Committee, that merchants revealing at this bar the state of their affairs is a measure which all would wish to avoid, unless upon such great occasions as the present, when the public weal is evidently at stake, when their duty as good subjects requires it of them; but when the mode of examination is such as totally precludes them from answering the great public object (which, in their opinion, is clearly the case at present) they beg leave humbly to signify, that they wave appearing before the committee which has been appointed, and that the merchants are not under any apprehensions respecting their American debts, unless the means of remittance should be cut off by measures that may be adopted in Great Britain."
March 9. This morning, at 8 o'clock, 56 drafts from the two regiments of light dragoons embarked on board a transport at Deptford, for Corke, there to augment Preston's light dragoons, destined for America.
Orders are sent to Portsmouth, that the thirteen transports in the Downs do sail as soon as possible to Spithead, where they are to be joined by seven more, and then to proceed to Ireland to take on board the troops for America.
March 10. Deputations are sent from hence to Boston, to try several persons in America.
We hear from East Retford, Nottinghamshire, that two troops of Elliot's light dragoons, quartered at that place, received orders for drafting five men out of each troop in order to go to America. When the officers acquainted the men, that they who chose to go

might turn out, eighteen voluntarily offered themselves, and they are to cast lots which of them are to go.
Recruiting parties are sent to different parts of the kingdom to raise a number of men, that are to be incorporated in all the regiments of foot.
The expence of the transports to carry the troops to America, will on the most moderate estimate, amount to 80,000l.
Extract of a letter from Cork, March 1. Most of the troops destined for America are arrived here. Both officers and men never went upon an expedition with greater reluctance than on the present intended one. I shudder at the consequences of being obliged to fight against our fellow-subjects. This morning upwards of 1200 drums were sent down the river, to be carried to the Downs, in order to be put on board the transports bound to America.
It is assured as a fact in the city, that the ministry have lately received some accounts from France and Spain, which have thrown them into great confusion, not knowing what steps are proper to be taken in so critical an affair; for that France has a large body of forces ready to make a descent upon Ireland, as soon as the Spaniards have a large fleet ready to attack some of the western islands, but it is generally believed that Jamaica is their principal object.
EDINBURGH, March 3. We mentioned last week that an express had arrived, ordering the 3d, 11th, and 30th regiments now in England and Scotland, to march immediately for Ireland to supply the place of the eight regiments ordered for America: On Friday last a second express arrived, countermanding these orders, as no regiments were to go to America: On Wednesday a third express arrived, again ordering the three regiments to march for Ireland as it was once more determined to send the troops to America. Part of the 30th regiment has already marched.
BOSTON, April 17. IN the Nautilus sloop of war, Captain Parker, came passenger, Capt. De Lancey of the 17th regiment of dragoons. Capt. Parker left Plymouth the 14th of March.
By the last advices from England we learn, that the Generals Howe, Burgoyne and Clinton were ordered to Boston, and were to come out in the Cerberus man of war.
The following reinforcements are said to be destined for this place: The 22d, 35th, 40th, 44th, 45th, 49th, and 63d regiments of foot, 17th regiment of dragoons, and 600 marines; each company to be augmented to three serjeants and 60 privates.
It is said that all the recruits raised in England for the different regiments, are ordered to embark for America, under the command of Major Bruce of the 38th regiment, in order to augment the several regiments now here to the new establishment.
A letter from London of the 4th of March, mentions, that the bill for restraining the commerce of the New England colonies had passed the two Houses of Parliament and would soon receive the royal assent.
Yesterday the Falcon frigate, Captain Lindsey, arrived here with despatches for their Excellencies General Gage and Admiral Graves.
The Cerberus frigate, and Otter and Merlin sloops, may be daily expected.
We hear that the 14th regiment, now at St. Augustine, and the remainder of the 65th regiment, at Halifax, are ordered immediately for this place.
NEW YORK, April 20. WE hear by Capt. Coupar, that his Excellency Governor Tryon, our Governor, was shortly to embark for New York.
We have no papers from Boston by yesterday's post. The report is, that as the printers were moving their types out of the town the packages were stopped and broke open by the soldiery, and the letters scattered or thrown into disorder, so that no paper could be got ready for the post.
WILLIAMSBURG, May 6. A FEW nights ago some people privately entered the public magazine in this city and took a great number of guns, cartridges, boxes, swords, canteens, &c. for which his Excellency the Governor has ordered a diligent search to be made.
Yesterday there was a meeting of the committee of King William county, and part of the militia, when the contents of the second express from the Northward was communicated, and it had such an effect on the minds of the people, that near 200l. was immediately subscribed for the use of our brethren now fighting in the common cause. Most of the principal Gentlemen subscribed ten pounds each, and as not half of the county were present, there is no doubt but that it will be nearly doubled.
Extract of a letter from one of our Delegates, on his way to the Congress.
TUESDAY Evening. The storm thickens very fast. The New Yorkers have received intelligence that their town is to be fortified, and fourteen regiments sent there to cut off the communication between the southern and eastern colonies. This has united them to a man in the American cause. They are forming themselves, and beg assistance from the southward. This comes from the Philadelphia committee. The Bostonians have given a good drubbing to 2000 regulars.
We are informed that GAWIN CORBIN, Esq; of Middlesex, is appointed one of his Majesty's Honourable Council of this colony, in the room of the late John Page, Esquire.
THE town of York being somewhat alarmed by a letter from Capt. Montague, commander of his Majesty's ship the Fowey, addressed to the Hon. Thomas Nelson, Esq; President of his Majesty's Council in Virginia; and a copy of said letter being procured, a motion was made, that the copy should be laid before the committee, and considered. The copy was read, and is as follows:
SIR, FOWEY, May 4, 1775. I have this morning received certain information that his Excellency the Lord Dunmore, Governor of Virginia, is threatened with an attack at day break this morning, at his palace in Williamsburg, and have thought proper to send a detachment from his Majesty's ship under my command, to support his Excellency, therefore strongly pray you to make use of every endeavour to prevent the party from being molested and attacked, as in that case I must be under a necessity to fire upon this town.
To the Hon. Thomas Nelson, From GEORGE MONTAGUE.
The committee, together with Capt. Montague's letter, taking into consideration the time of its being sent, which was too late to permit the President to use his influence, had the inhabitants been disposed to molest and attack the detachment; and further considering that Col. Nelson, who, had this threat been carried into execution, must have been a principal sufferer, was, at that very moment, exerting his utmost endeavours in behalf of Government, and the safety of his Excellency's person, unanimously came to the following resolutions:
Resolved, that Capt. Montague, in threatening to fire upon a defenceless town, in case of an attack upon the detachment, in which said town might not be concerned, has testified a spirit of cruelty unprecedented in the annals of civilized times; that, in his late notice to the President, he has added insult to cruelty; and that, considering the circumstance, already mentioned, of one of the most considerable inhabitants of said town, he has discovered the most hellish principles that can actuate a human mind.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the inhabitants of this town, and to the county in general, that they do not entertain or
show any other mark of civility to Capt. Montague, besides what common decency and absolute necessity require.
Resolved, that the Clerk do transmit the above proceedings to the public printers to be inserted in the Virginia gazettes.
(A true copy.)
WILLIAM RUSSELL, Clk. Com.
At a meeting of the committee of GLOUCESTER, at the courthouse on TUESDAY the 2d of MAY, 1775.
Resolved, THAT we will not ship a single hoghead of tobacco to Great Britain until the determination of the Continental Congress, respecting exportation, be known.
Resolved, that we deem the resolution of our committee last November, not to ship any tobacco in future to Mr. Norton's house, as still obligatory; the ship Virginia having arrived without the concessions then required.
JASPER CLAYTON, Clerk.
We hear from York town, that in consequence of Captain Montague's letter to the President, many of the inhabitants were so much alarmed that they immediately removed their families and effects into the country.
The Liberty, Outram, Rising Sun, Peterson, and Arnold, Waterman, are arrived in York river; the Brunswick, M'Larty, and Nelly, M'Larty, from Glasgow, and the Lucy, Jones, from Bristol, in James river; the Jett, Gibson, in Rappahannock.
Deaths.] Mrs. MARY BALL, consort of Burges Ball, Esq; of Lancaster county, after a long sickness, which she endured with the greatest patience and resignation, and whose death is justly lamented by all her acquaintance.
NEWCASTLE, May 3, 1775. THE Subscriber, who intends for Scotland in a few Weeks, has for Sale, in the Town of Newcastle, three LOTS, on which there is a small, but convenient Dwelling-House, with all necessary Outhouses, lately built, the Garden newly paled in, and the Lots under good Fencing, two of them sowed with Wheat and Clover last Fall.
ROBERT CAMPBELL.
N. B. All Persons indebted to the Subscriber are requested to come and settle their Accounts.
NORFOLK, May 2, 1775. ALL Persons indebted to us are desired to settle their Accounts with Mr. Alexander Moseley, who is appointed to the Management of the Concern since the Death of Mr. John Wilkins; and as many Accounts have been long standing, we expect a speedy Settlement.
PHRIPP, TAYLOR, & Co.
FOUND, some Time ago, a neat PINCHBECK WATCH. The Owner may have it on proving his Property, and paying Charges.
ISHAM ALLEN.
THOSE Gentlemen who may be inclined to consign any Tobacco to William Lee, Esq; Merchant in London, are respectfully acquainted, that a good British built Ship will be in York River in a very short Time, to take in Tobacco to his Address, when the Gentlemen Shippers will be waited on by the Captain in Person.
BLANDFORD, May 1, 1775. AS I intend for Britain early in the Summer, those who have any Demands against me will be kind enough to bring them in, and they shall be immediately discharged. Mr. Thomas Gordon, of Prince George, will be properly empowered to receive, and grant Discharges for, the Debts still due to Gordon & Ramsay.
PATRICK RAMSAY.
BLANDFORD, May 1, 1775. THOSE indebted to Ramsay, Monteth, and Co. are desired to take Notice, that their Business at this Place, formerly under Mr. Patrick Ramsay's and lately under my Direction, is now managed by Mr. William Bogle, who is fully empowered to transact the same, and to whom they are desired to make payment. When the Times admit, it will be carried on as usual.
WILLIAM ROBERTSON.
TO BE SOLD
To the highest Bidders, at the Dwelling-House of JAMES BUCHANAN, deceased, in SURRY County, on THURSDAY the 25th Instant, Sundry Articles of HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, some PLATE, and four valuable NEGRO HOUSE SERVANTS. Credit will be allowed the Purchasers for all Sums of 25s. or upwards, until the 25th of April 1776, giving Bond and approved Security to HENRY SIMMONS, } Administrators of Buchanan & Simmons. BENJAMIN SIMMONS, }
TO BE SOLD,
On three Years Credit, to the highest Bidder, on MONDAY the 5th of JUNE, at one o'Clock, in the Road, on the Premises, TWELVE Hundred Acres of LAND, more or less, on the north Side of Piscataway Creek, in Essex County, nearly opposite to the old Warehouse. The Land was lately recovered by a Judgment of our Honourable General Court. An incontestable Right will be made the Purchaser, on giving Bond (with good Security) to carry Interest from the Date if not punctually paid. Mr. Francis Vaughan will show the land.
EDWARD THWEATT.
THE NOTED HORES MARK ANTHONY,
ADVERTISED some Time ago in the Virginia Gazette to stand at Mr. Robert Hayne's this Season, in Bute County, will stand at my Plantation on Elk Marsh, in Halifax County, about four Miles above the Town, and will cover Mares the ensuing Season at 30s. Virginia Money the Leap, 31. the Season, or 51. to ensure a Colt. I have an excellent pasture. Great Care will be taken of Mares, but will not be answerable for any that may get away.
B. MCCULLOCK.
NORTH CAROLINA, March 29, 1775.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, in Blandford, on the 4th of March last, a dark bay Mare, 7 or 8 Years old, about 14 Hands high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, cat-hamm'd, paces naturally, has some Saddle Spots on the near Side, and branded WK, or WR, on the near Shoulder and Buttock. Also a small sorrel FILLY went away with her, two Years old this Spring, had a Snip on the right Nostril, but neither docked nor branded. They were seen on Roanaway, and are imagined to have gone towards Walker's Mill, on Roanaway, or Hick's Ford, on Meherrin. Whoever will bring the said Mares to me shall be handsomely rewarded for their Trouble.
DAVID BLACK.
FOR SALE,
Next CAROLINE Court Day, being the second THURSDAY in MAY,
FOUR full blooded FEARNOUGHT COLTS from one to four Years old; also two fine BROOD MARES, one of them imported. Bond (with good Security) will be expected, payable in October. JOHN BAYLOR.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Amherst County, about the latter End of February last, a Virginia born Negro Fellow named ROBIN, about 45 Years of Age, nearly 6 Feet high, well made, of a yellowish Complexion, has a thin Voice, several of his fore teeth are out, and is somewhat deaf. He formerly belonged to Col. Warner Lewis of Gloucester County, where it is probable he will attempt to go, as he was lately taken up near Richmond Town, and made his Escape from the Person who was bringing him Home, near Goochland Courthouse. All Masters of Ships, and other Persons, are hereby forewarned from harbouring or conveying him out of the Colony; and I will give 20s. Reward, besides what the Law allows, to any person who delivers the said slave to me, or secures him in any Jail, so that I may get him again.
W. CABELL.
To be SOLD for ready Money,
A COLLECTION of valuable BOOKS, either separately or together; a Port Folio of ENGRAVINGS, ETCHINGS, and MEZZOTINTOS (all fine Impressions, and many of them Proofs) by the most celebrated Masters; several Articles of MAHOGANY FURNITURE, &c. a three Year old CHESTNUT COLT, by VALIANT, from a high-blooded Mare; a Year old BAY FILLY, from the same, by FEARNOUGHT; and a SINGLE CHAIR, both light and strong; the Property of S. Henley of William & Mary College, who designs to leave the Colony soon.
I INTEND to leave the Colony soon. WILLIAM CRAIG.
For SALE, on long Credit,
THE HOUSE in the City of Williamsburg where Mr. WILLIAM HORNSBY lately lived. For Terms, inquire of the Printers.
PRINCE GEORGE, April 17, 1775.
THE Subscriber gives Notice to the Public, that whereas he purchased a Tract of Land, in October 1774, of Thomas Penn, on Cedar Creek, in the County of Brunswick, and the said Penn hath received Earnest Money in Part Payment for the said Land, but since refuses to make him a Right according to Agreement: He therefore forewarns all Persons from having any Dealings with him for the said Tract of Land.
THOMAS HARRIS.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 29, 1775.
THE Subscribers intending to leave the Colony as soon as they can settle their Affairs, once more most earnestly entreat the Favour of those that are indebted to them to discharge their Accounts at the ensuing Meeting of the Merchants. The GOODS they have on Hand will be sold cheap for Cash; and as their Continuance here is uncertain, it makes such a Notice necessary. The HOUSE they live in, which is situated in the most public Part of the City, and well calculated for any public Business, to be sold on long Credit, with Interest from the Date of the Deed, or on an Annuity, with approved Security: Either of those, as may best suit the Purchaser, will be agreeable to EDWARD & J. CHARLTON.
RUN away from Mr. Andrew Leitch, Merchant at Dumfries, two Convict Men, transported from London, in the Justitia, Captain Kidd, named WILLIAM PEIRCY, and RALPH EMANUEL: Piercy is a well-looking Middle sized Man, about 25 Years of Age, an Englishman, wears his own short black Hair, and has been used to the Sea: Emanuel is a stout Englishman, wears his own red Hair tied behind, has been also used to the Sea, limps on his left Foot, and is about 25 Years of Age. Whoever delivers them to the said Mr. Andrew Leitch, at Dumfries, shall have a Reward of 31. Currency for each of them.
(4) THOMAS HODGE.
SURRY, April 17, 1775.
RUN away from the Subscribers, two intended Servant Men, viz. GEORGE BLACKBURN, about 22 Years of Age, of a brown Complexion, about 5 Feet 9 Inches high, has a large Hand, his Fingers are remarkably long, he is pretty well learned, writes a tolerable good Hand, is nice in dressing himself, and particularly his Hair, which is of a brown Colour, long, and generally wears it clubbed. He had on a Suit of black Cloth Clothes, and carried with him a Suit of light coloured ditto, several Pair of Stockings, some white Shirts and Neckcloths. He is a sensible obliging Man, and knows how to behave himself well: GEORGE PEART, about 5 Feet 8 Inches high, of a light Complexion, pitted with the Smallpox, has light coloured long Hair, which he wore either hanging down his Back or clubbed; had on a white Shirt and Neckcloth, a dark coloured Frieze Coat, an old red Jacket double breasted, a Pair of light coloured Cloth Breeches, gray ribbed Stockings, and a Pair of Pumps. He took with him an old brown Thicket Coat; he is about 22 Years old, and pretends to be a Shoemaker. Whoever will apprehend the said Servants, and convey them to us, or secure them so that we get them again, shall have 51. Reward for both, or 50s. for either.
THOMAS & SAMUEL PRETLOW.
The said Runaways are Natives of England, and say they were born in the County of Durham.
Bute County, North Carolina, March 20, 1775.
RUN away from the Subscriber, a Slave of the Indian Breed, a tall slim made Fellow, with long straight black Hair, about 23 Years of Age, had on, when he went away, a blue Duffel Waistcoat, old Check Shirt, &c. but since he left me has sold sundry Goods; so that he may have changed his Dress. He is branded on both Cheeks, with the letter R on the right, and the letter T on the left. It is supposed he will make for Prince George County in Virginia, or to some scaport Town on James River. Whoever secures him in any of his Majesty's Gaols, so that I may get him again, shall have 40s. Reward, to be paid to the Gaoler. The Brands on his Cheeks were fresh given him by the Person of whom I bought him, and were not cured when he left me.
WILLIAM TABB.
All Persons are forewarned employing or harbouring the said Slave, at their peril.
TAKEN up, in Chesterfield, a yellow bay HORSE about 10 or 12 Years old, 4 Feet 6 or 7 Inches high, with a Star in his Forehead, has several Saddle Spots, is branded on the left Buttock RC, and on the right R. Posted, and appraised to 101. RALPH FALKNER.

POETS CORNER.
VERSES by a Lady, on gathering a SNOW-DROP in the garden of her lover. H A! wherefore thus thine head decline, When press'd in this warm breast of mine? Dost thou thy hapless fate deplore, In being snatch'd from that lov'd bower? Know, sweetest bud, from Damon's plains, 'Tis in this breast thy master reigns. Not in these wild woods, for my love, My wanderer shuns the silent grove. Or dost thou mourn that thus he flies From these dear haunts, and Delia's sighs; And with the gay and great resorts To splendid balls and shining courts? Droop not, fair flower, the time may be When he will court simplicity, And make these peaceful shades his choice, And pleas'd attend love's melting voice: Then shall these bowers oblations bring, In all the sweets of opening spring, With every charm that nature yields, Of forests wild, and verdant fields; While feather'd warblers swell their throats, To sooth my love with woodland notes, And woo him to his natal seat Of joy and love, the sure retreat.
JAMES DAVIS, TAILOR, YORK TOWN,
H ERE BY returns his most grateful Acknowledgments to all those who have hitherto been his Customers, and takes this Opportunity to inform them, as well as the Public in general, that he has just opened Shop nearly opposite the Swan Tavern ; where, by a close Application to his Business, and the utmost Endeavours to give Satisfaction, he flatters himself he will meet with a Continuance of the Favours of his Friends, and merit general Encouragement. LADIES RIDING HABITS made in the newest Fashion.
THE Subscriber begs Leave to inform the Public that he now commands the Sloop Agnes , about 1800 Bushels Burthen, a prime Sailer, and well built, with good Accommodations for Passengers; he proposes to follow the Country Trade in common, and for the most Part, Rappahannock River : He will be humbly obliged to all Gentlemen who choose to honour him with their Commands; he purposes to make it his Delight and Study to oblige all who confide in his Integrity. GEORGE BRUCE. N. B. He will never refuse a convenient Freight to New York or Philadelphia , and may at any Time be heard of by directing a few Lines to the Care of Mrs. Ann Winterton in Norfolk .
To be sold by Auction, At the Meeting of the Merchants in May next, for Cash or short Credit, about 600l. Sterling Worth of EUROPEAN GOODS.
FOR SALE, THE HIGH BLOODED HORSE D O T T E R E L.
H E is full 15 Hands 3 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 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 Hon. Philip Ludwell Lee , Esq; in Westmoreland County .
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Pe- tersburg , on Wednesday the 12th Instant ( April ) a yellow Fellow named PETER , about 24 Years of Age, and about 5 Feet 6 or 7 Inches high, with long bushy Hair, and had on, when he went away, a Dowlas Shirt, blue Coat, Leather Breeches, a Felt Hat, and Virginia Yarn Stockings. He is a Shoe and Harness Maker by Trade, has lately committed a Robbery, and it is supposed he will endeavour to pass for a Freeman, and attempt to get out of the Colony. I will give 40s. Reward to any Person who may bring me the said Slave, if taken in this Colony; and if out of it, 5l. DANIEL DODSON. All Persons are hereby forewarned from carrying him out of the Colony, or harbouring him, as they shall answer the same at their Peril.
TEN POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away , two Convict Servant Men, just imported from London , in the Justitia , Capt. Kidd , lying at Leeds Town , viz. WILLIAM PEARCE , a stout likely Fellow, 5 Feet 8 or 9 Inches high, with red Hair, a fair Complexion, tolerably well dressed, and about 25 Years of Age. RALPH EMANUEL , about 6 Feet high, and about 22 Years of Age, strong made, and likely, with darkish coloured Hair, and is well dressed: He had on a Chocolate coloured Surtout Coat, with a red Cape, a little tarred, and a bound Hat, with a black Band round it. They left the Company in which they were travelling a few Miles above Leeds Town , and both will certainly endeavour to pass for Sailors. To those used to the Smell of Servants just from a Ship they will easily be discovered, unless they have procured new Clothes. I will give 6l. for securing them, 10l. for bringing both Home, or Half that for each. All Masters of Ships are forbid harbouring them, at their Peril. ANDREW LEITCH.
TAKEN up , at Swan's Point Ferry , some Time in February last, a large MOSES BUILT BOAT , about 14 Feet Keel, 6 Feet Beam, with a Ring and Ringbolt to her Stem, and a Painter 4 Feet long. APRIL 5, 1775. JOHN HARTWELL COCKE.
TAKEN up , at Tucker's Mills , near Norfolk , a CLINCH WORK BOAT , 12 Feet Keel, the upper Strake painted red, the next Strake of a Chocolate Colour, and from that to the Water Line painted white. Potted, and appraised to 40s. Also taken up, a PETTIAUGER about 20 Feet long, sharp at both Ends, made of Poplar. Potted, and appraised to 75. 6d. GOODRICH BOUSH.
TAKEN up , near Hatcher's Creek Mountains , Buckingham , a dark red STEER , 3 Years old, marked with a Crop, Underkeel, and Hole, in the right Ear, and a Swallowfork in the left. Potted, and appraised to 25s. MATTHIAS AYRES.
ALL Persons indebted to the Estate of John M c Clanahan , deceased, are desired to make speedy Payment; and those who have any Demands against the Estate are desired to make them known to ALEXANDER ST. CLAIR, Exec'r.
FORTY SHILLINGS REWARD.
FOR apprehending RALPH , a Virginia born Negro Man, about 23 Years old, 5 Feet 8 or 10 Inches high, well made, and of a yellowish Complexion; had on, when he went away (the Beginning of Sept. last) a blue Fearnought Waistcoat, white Cotton Breeches, Canvas Shirt, and coarse Felt Hat. He took other Clothes with him, and perhaps may change his Dress. He is an artful Negro, and will endeavour to pass for a free Man. Whoever delivers him to Mr. George Turner , at Moss's Neck , in Caroline County , or to the Subscriber in King & Queen , shall have the above Reward, and reasonable travelling Expenses allowed. RICHARD CORBIN, Jun.
To be SOLD by the Subscriber, at her Store in Williamsburg ,
A large and well chosen Assortment of G O O D S, WHICH CONSIST AS FOLLOWS, viz.
MINIONET and blond Lace and Edgings, white Satin and Lustrine, a number of black, white, and other coloured Silk Petticoats, Patent Net Aprons and Hoods, superfine Fancy and Dress Caps, Stomachers and Knots, Tambour Muslin, Waistcoats and Sword Knots, white, coloured, and raw Silk Stockings, brown Thread and Cotton Stockings, black Silk ditto, Cane and Silk Hats, French Flowers for trimming ditto, Silk Gloves and Mits, Leather and brown Thread ditto, fine stamped Irish Muslins for Ladies Gowns, which are remarkable for their beautiful Colours, Silk and Lawn Pocket Handkerchiefs, Salmon coloured plain and striped Dimities, Ladies Riding Hats and Feathers, French Trimmings, black and coloured Gauze Handkerchiefs, Silk Purse, Wire, Gauze, and ribbed Catgut, Boys Caps and Feathers, India Cotton for Work, Rolls and Curls, Children's Shoes and Stockings, Satin Cloakes and Terefas, Fans, Garnet set in Gold, plain Gold and Paste Brooches and Lockets, set Combs, Paste Bows, Crosses, Sprigs, and Pins, plain Gold, Paste, and Silver Stock Buckles, Marcalite and Paste Necklaces and Earrings, Gold Wires, Diamond and other Pencils, Silver bowed Scissors and French Sheaths, Thimbles, Watch Chains, Lancet Cases, Silver Shoe Claps, Tea Tongs and Salt Shovels, a Silver Tea-spoon, Trea, and Pap Boat, an exceeding good Silver Watch to be sold at 50 per Cent. Men's fine Hats and Didbury's Shoes, Boxes of Printing Types and Ink for marking Books and Linen, black, Pinchbeck, and Silver Shoe Buckles, Afs Skin Memorandum Books, Morocco Pocket ditto, Pocket Knives and Forks, Pruning and Pen ditto, a second Hand Guitar, Children's Stays and Sashes, Watch Seals, Keys, and Strings, black Bags and Rofes, Turen and Punch Ladies, Sword Canes, Sticks, and Ratans, Swan skin and Silk Powder Puffs, Tooth Brushes, and Picktooth Cases, a large Quantity of Irish Linen, with some Table Cloths and Towels, Wash Balls, a few Dozen of neat flowered Wine Glasses, Patent Blacking, Dolls and other Toys, with many other Articles.
At the same Place may be had a Parcel of LOAF SUGAR.
As I purpose going to England as soon as I dispose of my Goods (till Liberty of Importation is allowed) I am under the Necessity of not parting with a single Shilling's Worth without Cash; and I request, as a Favour, that all who are indebted to me will pay off their Accounts this Meeting, and all Persons having demands against me are desired to call immediately for their Money. CATHERINE RATHILL.
TO BE SOLD, At Mr. GABRIEL GALT's Door in RICHMOND , on the first Monday in May 1775 ,
THE Tenement in the back Street in the old Town of Richmond , some Time ago in the Tenancy of Mr. Patrick Coutts , lately occupied by Mr. Archibald M c Kendrick . The Premises consist of two Dwelling-Houses, a Kitchen, a small Lumber House and Stable, a Garden and Pasture, including four Lots newly pailed in the best Manner. The Time of Payment will be made known on the Day of Sale, by JAMES CURRIE.
A BLACKSMITH To be HIRED out till CHRISTMAS next, or the 25th of DECEMBER 1776 .
H E is a hearty, stout, young Negro Fellow, honest, diligent, and of submissive Temper, who can execute all Sorts of plain Work in the best Manner. JOHN RUFFIN, Junior, Guardian for Theo. B. Ruffin .
TO BE SOLD, In the Town of RICHMOND , on Tuesday the 2d of May , if fair, if not, the succeeding fair Day, pursuant to the Will of the late JAMES GUNN ,
A VALUABLE Tract of LAND , supposed to contain about 400 Acres, within three Miles of the Town, and conveniently situated otherwise; ten exceeding likely NEGROES , Men and Women; a great variety of valuable HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE ; Stocks of HORSES, CATTLE, and HOGS . Credit will be allowed, for all Sums above five Pounds, till the first Day of Oct. 1776 , the Purchasers giving Bond, with approved Security, to bear interest from the Day of Sale if not discharged by the 25th of the Month in which they become payable. TURNER SOUTHALL, JAMES LYLE, JAMES BUCHANAN, PATRICK COUTTS, JOHN PENDLETON, } Executors. The Creditors are requested to make known their Demands to John Pendleton, Jun. in Richmond.
FOR SALE, A NEW Brig, burthen about 115 Tons 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 Hon. Philip Ludwell Lee , Esq; in Westmoreland County .
THE NOTED HORSE OLD PARTNER,
L ATELY the Property of Col. Thomas Mann Randolph , in high Perfection, stands at my House on Roswell Creek , in Dinwiddie County , about 16 Miles from Petersburg , to cover Mares at a Guinea the Leap, or five Pounds the Season, to be discharged by the Payment of three Guineas on or before the 1st Day of October next. Entertainment for Gentlemen's Servants, and good Pasturage, gratis. I shall take the utmost Care of Mares, but will not be answerable for any that may accidentally get away. ROBERT SKIPWITH.
WHEREAS I intend to leave this Co-
lony in a short Time, and being willing to give all the Satisfaction in my Power to my Creditors, I have executed a Deed, and made over in Trust, to Robert Burton and Andrew Chalmer of this Place, and Andersun Peers of Gooshland County , all my Effects, and the Remainder of the Debts due to me for Transactions at this Place, and also of those due for Transactions with Anselm George , at the Store lately kept by him on my Account at Giles Harding's , in Gooshland County , after satisfying an Assignment on the Books made to John M c Keand on the 18th of March last, for £. 343: 18: 7 Currency. I therefore desire all such of my Creditors who are willing to accede to, and receive any Benefit from, the said Deed of Trust, to bring in their respective Claims to the said Trustees, properly authenticated, on or before the first Day of June next, as after that Time they cannot be admitted. ARCHIBALD M c KENDRICK.
ALL Persons indebted to Mr. Archibald M c Kendrick are hereby requested to be as speedy as possible in making Payment, or otherwise to adjust their Accounts, and grant Specialties for their respective Balances, that we may be enabled to settle his Affairs as soon as possible. Such of his Creditors who are willing to comply with the Terms mentioned above are desired to give in a Note of their Claims to the Subscribers, who will attend in Williamsburg at the ensuing Meeting of the Merchants. ROBERT BURTON. ANDREW CHALMER.
TO BE RENTED, A large Dwelling-House In RICHMOND TOWN ,
40 Feet by 20, with two rooms below and two above, a Garden newly pailed in, a Kitchen, and all other Outhouses necessary for a Family. The Situation is as pleasant as any in Town. The Terms may be known by applying to the Printers hereof, or to the Subscriber, in said Town. GABRIEL GALT.
RUN away , the 20th Instant ( March ) a very black, large, young Negro Man named SELLOR . I bought him from the Rev. John Brander , in Bedford County , who purchased him from one Ransom , on North River , Kingston Parish , Gloucester County , where probably the Slave may be. Whoever will deliver him to the Subscriber, at Drummon's Neck , in James City County , shall have 3l. Reward, and be allowed all Expenses in bringing him. JOHN AYLETT.
TO BE SOLD, THREE Thousand Acres of well timbered LAND , near Newmarket , in Caroline County , whereon are two Plantations in good Repair, with proper and convenient Edifices for farming or making of Tobacco. For Terms apply to the Subscriber. JOHN BAYLOR.
TO BE SOLD, A TRACT of LAND in Caroline County , contiguous to 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 Burrwell of King William , Mr. John Armistead of Caroline , and Mr. John Baylor , Executors. ARMISTEAD
For SALE, and very CHEAP, THE Tract of LAND whereon I now live, in the lower End of Caroline County , that contains 470 Acres, and is known to be very good. The Improvements are, a new Dwelling-House 32 by 28 Feet, with three Dormants on a Side, two Fireplaces below, and one above, a good Cellar, the Kitchen 24 by 16 Feet, with all other Outhouses quite new, and the Plantation in fine Order for Cropping. Its Situation is equal to any Forest Place whatever. I will give Credit till next Christmas , when Possession may be had. LE ROY HIPKINS.
TO BE SOLD, or RENTED, (Preference will be given to the first)
A PLANTATION on Allen's Creek in Mecklenburg , within a Mile of Roanoke , consisting of about 120 Acres of Land, the Property of Messrs. Alexander Donald and Co. and whereon the Subscriber now lives. The Land of itself is valuable, exclusive of the Improvements, which are a good Dwelling-House, with other necessary Outhouses, and a large and convenient Storehouse, 32 by 44 Feet. There are about 20 Acres of the low Ground well set in Timothy and Clover, and notwithstanding this dry Summer, 15 Acres of it have yielded above 30,000 Weight of Hay, which, with about 300 Bushels of Oats in the Straw, some Indian Corn, 40 Head of Cattle, 50 Head of Sheep, and some Hogs, will be sold on reasonable Terms. The Purchaser may have Possession of the Premises as soon as he pleases, and long Credit (if required) will be allowed for the Land, on his giving Bond and Security. It is expected the Store will be continued, and of Course the Purchaser will have the Benefit of the Board of the Storekeepers, and besides the Situation of the Place (being on Taylor's Ferry Road ) makes it well calculated for a Tavern. EBENEZER MACHARG.
PRINCE GEORGE, November 10, 1774.
RUN away from the Subscriber, a Mu- latto Boy named SAM , about 16 or 17 Years old, of a very light Complexion, and will endeavour to pass for a free Boy, has gray Eyes, brown Hair, a smooth artful Tongue, is a great Villain, but a very good Barber. In the Month of June last he was put in York Jail , on Suspicion of having stolen some Money in Williamsburg . He made his Escape from thence and got to Norfolk , where he was put in Jail and sent to me by Water. The next Day ( September 20th ) he made his Escape from my Overseer, and has not since been heard of. He was born in Frederick-Town, Maryland , has lived in Fredericksburg, Norfolk, and York Town , and is well acquainted with most Parts of Virginia . He was very meanly clad, having been so long in Jail, but it is probable will procure Clothes. I will give 40s. Reward to have him committed to any of his Majesty's Jails, if taken in the Colony of Virginia , and if out of the Colony 5l. All Captains of Ships, or Makers of Vessels, are hereby forewarned from carrying him out of the Country, or employing him. JOHN BLAND.