The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1776-05-25 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
WITH THE FRESHEST ADVICES, IN CIVITATE LIBERA LINGUAM MENTEMQUE
BOTH FOREIGN AND DOMESTICK. LIBERAS ESSE DEBERE.---Suet. in Tib. S. 28.
PRINTED by JOHN DIXON
And WILLIAM HUNTER.
All Persons may be supplied with this PAPER at Twelve Shillings and Sixpence a Year, and have ADVERTISEMENTS (of a moderate Length) inserted for Three Shillings the first Week, and Two Shillings each Week after.---PRINTING WORK done at this Office in the NEATEST Manner, with Care and Expedition.
From the PENNSYLVANIA EVENING POST.
Reasons for a Declaration of the Independence of the American Colonies.
1. THE colonies will be delivered from two governments directly opposed to each other. 2. The colonies will be delivered from the disorders which arise from the unlimited, undescribed, and sometimes arbitrary powers of Conventions, Committees of Safety, and Committees of Inspection. 3. A criminal correspondence with the enemies of this country will be prevented, or punished under the article of high treason. 4. The colonies will be delivered from the danger of Crown officers, whose apparent interest it will always be to remain inactive, or to co-operate with the enemies of America. 5. The British constitution may be immediately restored to each colony, with the great and necessary improvements of a Governor and Council chosen by the people. 6. France will immediately attack Britain in the most defenceless parts of her empire, and thus draw off her fleets and armies from our coasts. 7. All the powers of Europe will conceive such ideas of our union, love of freedom, and military resources, that they will not be tempted to accept of a share in us upon the condition of conquering us.
L O N D O N.
INTELLIGENCE EXTRAORDINARY.
HIS Majesty's right arm is lame, occasioned by a sprain from flourishing his sword over the heads of his new made Knights. The Rev. Mr. Peters, from Connecticut, has obtained his Majesty's leave to pick hops at 9d. per day, a penny more than the usual price, as a reward for his past faithful services. And by this lucrative business it is supposed he will soon acquire a fortune equal to what he left behind him. Colonel Ingersoll, from the Massachusetts, has a patent for mowing grass, and is to have 10d. sterling per day, or 7d. half-penny per acre, and has an exclusive right to cut where he pleases. There are many other rewards given to persons who have fled from the colonies, equal to the above-mentioned.
B O S T O N, April 25.
LAST Friday a vessel arrived off Marblehead, from Halifax, with Dr. Stockbridge, and a number of other refugee Tories. The information from some of them is, that they had their choice of enlisting as soldiers, and as such to be provided for, or to starve, or return to this colony. They chose the latter, and are now supplicating their country for mercy. How they have been disposed of we have not heard.
From the NEW YORK JOURNAL.
Mr. HOLT,
AS the public were a few days since informed of the honour done General Gage, by naming a child after him, it may not be a miss to let it be known, that Lord Dunmore also comes in for his share in the same way. Therefore, if you think proper, insert the inclosed in your paper, and oblige a customer.
"On Monday the 8th instant a lusty likely NEGRO WENCH was delivered of a male child, who, in memory of a certain notable NEGRO CHIEF, is named Dunmore."
Hail! doughty Ethioppean Chief! Though ignominious Negro Chief! This BLACK shall prop thy sinking name, And damn thee to perpetual fame.
[Query, Is not this, though an act of justice to Dunmore, cruelty to the innocent Negro?]
A singular passage in the life of Behram, King of Persia.
BEHRAM, King of Persia, succeeded to his father's throne, at an age more proper to be under controul than to govern his species. He imagined that the whole business of a Monarch was to consult his own happiness: To attain this end, he abandoned the arduous task of government to his Prime Minister. This Vizier, never expecting to be questioned about his management, shamefully abused the power delegated to him, as did all the subordinate officers under his direction, depending upon the like impunity; so that they sought only their own profit, without any regard to the public, to which they were responsible.
The troops, ill paid, became negligent in their duty; no order maintained, no justice administered, nor any economy practised, the people became seditious. The Prince was too late informed that his subjects were ready to deny him obedience. He was alarmed at the report, and shaking off the indolence he had so long been accustomed to, inquired from whence such a general dissatisfaction should proceed, as he did not expect or foresee. His counsellors so much dreaded the Vizier's displeasure, that though they acknowledged the disorders, yet had neither virtue nor courage to lay open the cause. As the Prince was one day walking, pensive, and ruminating upon the evils he wished to remove, he met with a shepherd, who had just been hanging his dog upon a tree.
"What had that animal done (says the King) to merit such a punishment?"
"The crime he has committed (answered the shepherd) is, he betrayed the confidence I reposed in him: I raised him up, and fed him plentifully, that he might defend my sheep from the wolf; but, instead of performing the service I intended and expected from him, he entered into a combination with those voracious animals, and not only neglected the charge of protec-
tion, but also became a sharer with them in the plunder; by which means my flock is devoured through the perfidiousness of my dog." The calamities of the multitude is always owing to those that govern.
These words made a deep impression in the King's mind, opened his eyes to reflection, and convinced him that he had been imprudent in trusting too implicitly to his Vizier, as treacherous as the shepherd's dog, and therefore condemned him to the same punishment the cur so justly deserved.
This example struck terror into those, who, in imitation of the Prime Minister, had abused that portion of authority committed to them. By this wholesome severity good order was established in Persia, and the King was instructed by the leader of a flock in what manner he should govern his subjects.
TO THE PRINTERS.
GENTLEMEN, Once more oblige many of your customers by inserting in your gazette the following piece.
To the Youth in the Army.
DEAR SONS.
AS your remote and unknown situations to many of us puts it out of our power to address you in a more private way, we beg you will receive this as if directed to each of you in particular, from your tender parents.
Our love to liberty (that gift of Heaven) love to our country, and love to you, triumphed over the more fond and tender feelings of a parent's heart: We wiped off the trickling tear, and cheerfully bid you farewell, when you went forth in defence of your country, to engage in all the perils and hardships of war. We would now bid you be of good courage, and play the men for your people, and for the cities of your God. Be obedient to your officers, and kind and friendly to each other. Let not dangers nor hardships discourage you, nor ever let our eyes be blated with the sight of your names in the public prints as deserters. Serve God, fear to offend him, and persevere in your duty till he shall crown you with victory, which, in such a cause, you may have good reason to expect.
But, sons, with grief and distress we must inform you, that we hear a very different conduct prevails in your camps. Our hearts are made to bleed, and our ears to tingle, with the reports of your wickedness, cursing, swearing, gaming, and debauchery. What! cannot you make good soldiers, unless you first commence veterans in sin? Cannot your country be saved but by the loss of your souls? "A thousand worlds so bought were bought too dear!" For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? Is it the way to obtain the favour and blessing of God, to live in contempt of his laws and government, and daily to affront and provoke him? This is not the doctrine we taught you; nor what you learn'd from your bibles. Or are you already arrived at the wretched shift of infidels and libertines, in trying to ease your consciences by disbelieving God's word, and thereby arrogate to yourselves a liberty to sin with impunity? With equal success you might as well think to evade the force of a cannon ball levelled at your head, by winking hard against it. The doctrines of christianity and sacred truths of scripture will live, when all despisers of it are dead and damned according to its sentence (of whatever rank they may be) and the time is fast hastening when they shall call to the rocks and mountains to fall on them, and hide them from the wrath of an offended God. We therefore now call upon you in time, and warn you by all that is dear and sacred to break of your sinful courses before the destructive consequences of your doings come upon you: Ruin, certain ruin, to yourselves and your country.
Beg of your officers to use their authority and influence in discouraging vice among you of every kind, and in particular that they drive from your camps those fiery curses, and worst of plagues to human kind, lewd and abandoned women. As we must not be tedious, let these few hints suffice. May the blessing of God attend you; may he prosper you and give you success, and return you in his own time a comfort to us your afflicted parents, and a blessing to your country.
From, dear sons,
Your affectionate Parents.
To the PEOPLE of PENNSYLVANIA.
LETTER VII.
THE author of Common Sense does not trust wholly to his scripture doctrines for the demolition of monarchical government; and, indeed, how could he? For he seems only to have begun his study of the Bible "since the fatal 19th of April 1775." Before that period, as he eloquently tells us, "no man was a warmer wisher to reconciliation [with monarchical government] than himself." It may be proper, then, to take some notice of what he offers by way of argument against monarchy, and particularly the hereditary kind.
"If hereditary successions (says he, meaning succession to monarchical government) did ensue a race of good men, it would have the seal of divine authority." Thus we find him, with his own hand, affixing the seal of Heaven to what he has before told us the devil invented, and the Almighty entered his protest against. A strange inconsistency, as well as heterodoxy! For if monarchy be from hell, and reprobated by Heaven, how can a succession to it be sanctified by the authority of everlasting goodness?
He finds another curious argument against the English monarchy in particular, by tracing it to the rascally original of a French bastard. Yet, in the estimation of many, this will prove as little against the institution itself as it would prove against this author's argument or mine in the present controversy, if both of us were discovered not only to have sprung from bastards, but to be such ourselves. The family scutcheon that is without a blot must be but of very fresh date. The Roman empire, by this author's argument, had a double or twin rascality in its original. Romulus and Remus did not know their own father. "They were (says Sidney) the sons of a Nun, conflagrated (or plumped up)
as is probable by a lusty soldier, who was (by the language of flattery, afterwards) said to be Mars, and for their vigour and valour were made heads of the people." The rest of his arguments appear nothing better than these, even where he displays his whole force, in laying before us the materials of the English constitution under different heads. "First the remains of monarchical tyranny, in the person of the King. Secondly, the remains of aristocratical tyranny, in the persons of the Peers. Thirdly, the new republican materials, in the persons of the Commons." These, he intimates, may be virtuous; but he should have made them as tyrannical as the others, so far as these colonies are concerned; else what are we contending for against them?
Alas! What more than Augean labour have I undertaken, in attempting to answer a writer, who, under the specious name of Common Sense, is constantly dealing out paradoxes, and setting himself up, not only in contradiction to the sober sentiments of the wisest of mankind, but often in contradiction to himself? Can any man expect credit who will gravely assert, that a people long famed for wisdom and love of liberty, would have employed themselves for a thousand years, in compounding and rearing up a constitution out of the materials of the different simple forms of government, and, all the while, have selected nothing but the tyrannical remains of each? To reason with such a writer would be lost labour. Some assertions are too absurd for the possibility of refutation. The rules of logic cannot lay hold of them.
In such a case, the best answer that can be given, is to lay before the reader a true account of the English constitution, the praises of which have adorned and filled the volumes of the greatest men, in our own and other countries. In this part of my work, therefore, I shall have little more to do than to copy them, and as the sentiments of foreigners may be deemed more impartial than our own, I shall take one of the greatest of them, the illustrious MONTESQUIEU, for my chief guide. But as this truly enlightened genius, with the dignity of a profound lawyer, delivers himself, almost in the concise stile of aphorisms, that he may be more useful to men, whose clear and comprehensive understanding renders them fit for the like office themselves, in the service of their country, I shall endeavour to convey the substance of his doctrines in the most familiar style, retaining, as far as I am able, his sense and spirit. I shall likewise venture sometimes to make a few additions, either for illustration, or to bring his general principles more closely home to the English constitution.
There is certainly something too venerable in a fabric built up with so much care by our ancestors, cemented with so much blood, and to which they have adhered for so many ages, to be lightly given up, upon the partial representations, or general inuendoes, of any writer, or number of writers, arguing from the abuse of things against the use of them. We would not lock ourselves out of an old habitation, till we had provided a new and better one; nor part with a common friend upon the passionate accusations of an avowed enemy, without hearing what he could say in his defence, and giving him a fair trial. For, at this rate, we could have nothing of the least stability or permanency upon earth, and our whole lives would be employed in making and unmaking, building up and pulling down, without ever reaping the smallest fruit of our labours.
The author of Common Sense stands singular in his rage for condemning the English constitution in the lump, and the administration of it from the beginning. The immortal SIDNEY himself gives it a different character, and speaks with reverence of the wisdom of our ancestors. "They evidently appear, says he, not only to have intended well, but to have taken a right course to accomplish what they intended. This had effect as long as the cause continued, and the only fault which can be ascribed to that which they established is, that it has not proved to be perpetual, which is no more than may be justly said of the best human constitutions that ever have been in the world. If we will be just to our ancestors it will become us, in our time, rather to pursue what we know they intended, and by new constitutions to repair the breaches made upon the old, than to accuse them of defects that will for ever attend the actions of men."
MONTESQUIEU, in the cool moments of philosophical reflection, unbiased by local prejudices, and remote, both in time and place, from the scenes he describes, has given us an instructive lesson on this head.
"A very droll spectacle (says he) it was in the last century, to behold the impotent efforts the English made for the establishment of democracy or republican government. The government was continually changing. The people, amazed at so many revolutions, sought every where for a democracy, without being able to find it" any where. "At length, after a series of tumultuary motions and violent shocks, they were obliged to have recourse to that very government, which they had so odiously proscribed."
Every government, in order to be complete, must have within itself the power of preserving its being, as well as pursuing its well-being. And such a power necessarily implies three things. 1st. Legislation, or the making laws and regulations for the good of the community. 2d. The execution of these laws. 3d. The judging when they are duly executed, and punishing offenders. The great object of the whole is political liberty, which Montesquieu defines "that tranquillity or peace of mind arising from the opinion each person has of his safety. In order to have this liberty, it is requisite that the government be so constituted, as one man need not be afraid of another," either in respect of his person or property. Every man's own feelings can tell him that this is a true definition.
But the union of these three powers, the legislative, the executive, and judicial, in one man or any number of men, is not liberty but tyranny complete; because there can be no safety for individuals in such a case, unless goodness were always united with power; which is not to be looked for, except under the perfect government of Heaven. "It is a mistake (says the great Mr. LOCKE) to think that this fault (the abuse of power) is proper only to monarchies. Other forms of government are liable to it as well as
• Montesquieu, B. xi. Ch. 6.

that, for whatever the power, that is put into any hands, for the government of the people, and preservation of their properties, is applied to other ends, and made use of to impoverish, harrafs, or subdue them to the arbitrary and irregular commands of those that have it; there it presently becomes tyranny, whether those that use are one or many. Thus we read of thirty tyrants at Athens, as well as one at Syracuse, and the intolerable dominion of the Decemviri, or ten men at Rome, was nothing better. Wherever law ends, tyranny begins. "
Even the union of but any two of these powers, the legislative and executive, for example, in one man, or body of men, would leave no chance for liberty; because they who make the laws being also to execute them, they would be led to frame oppressive laws, for the sake of the power and wealth which they might derive to themselves, by carrying such laws into execution.
Again, there is no liberty, if the power of judging be not separated from both the other powers. For where the same persons who make the laws, are either to execute them, or to judge of their execution; the life and liberty of the subject are wholly at their mercy. These principles are general, and they may now be applied to particular examples.
"In Turkey, these three powers are united in the Sultan's person, and therefore the subjects groan under the weight of a most frightful oppression."
"In the republics of Italy, where these three powers are united, in a standing body of magistrates, there is less liberty than in our monarchies;" meaning those of France, Spain, &c. "Their government is obliged to have recourse to as violent measures for its support, as even that of the Turks; what a situation must the poor subject be in, in these republics!" The same magistrates, as a body, are absolute in every thing. By having the execution of the laws, they possess whatever powers they are pleased to give themselves in making them. They may plunder the state without controul. For, they first of all, in the character of law-givers, appoint what taxes they please; and, being also the executors of the laws, these taxes come into their own hands, and may be put into their own pockets. Being likewise themselves judges amidst all these oppressions, no man can have a remedy against them, and "every private citizen may be ruined by their particular decisions. Although in such a state, there is no external pomp (such as arbitrary Princes have) that indicates tyranny or despotic sway;" yet the people know it by a surer mark, "they feel it every moment." Even at Venice, where the power of the magistracy is said to be somewhat softened, by having different tribunals erected, which temper each other, there is still this mischief, "that these tribunals are composed of magistrates all belonging to the same body, which constitutes almost one and the same power," unaccountable to any other.
These three powers ought then, for the preservation of liberty, to be lodged in separate bodies, and made to controul each other. Montesquieu adds, that for the greater safety, the judicial power ought not to be given to a standing senate; but that the judges should be of the same station as the accused; or, in other words, their Peers, amenable to the law; only its mouth, and guided wholly by its decisions; that, in criminal cases especially, it is proper the person accused should have the privilege of choosing in some measure his judges (that is, in our constitution, a jury) in concurrence with the law, or at least he should have a right to except against so great a number, that the remainder may be deemed his own choice.
The application of these general doctrines to the English constitution, the corruption that have crept into it, with the power left in the house for bringing it back to its first principles, and rendering it safer for us than any other we can probably substitute in its room, are important subjects, and too copious to be discussed in this letter. C A T O.
From the PENNSYLVANIA LEDGER. CASSANDRA to CATO.
I HAVE engaged in the present political controversy with a design to be of service to my country. On an impartial inquiry into the present state of the British constitution, it appears to me that it is out of the power of the British legislature to give us security for the future enjoyment of our rights and liberties, and on this ground I have opposed a re-union. I have examined every thing advanced by you on the subject, and find them wide of the mark. The point with me has ever been, what will secure our liberties? The question of interest is ever determined thereby. National prosperity and national happiness, are incompatible with national slavery. It is of small consequence to America, whether God has granted a King to the people of Britain or not; or whether the constitution of their government answers excellently to the inhabitants of that island, if dependence on that excellent form of government is big with slavery and ruin to America.
If you mean not to hold your countrymen in suspense until the day of salvation is past, I call upon you to prove that Great Britain can offer any plan of constitutional dependence which will not leave the future enjoyment of our liberties to hope, hazard, and uncertainty, as the Forester has finely expressed it. And that if she can there is a probability she will. If the one is impossible, or the other altogether improbable, yourself must acknowledge it is time to part.
By the constitution of Great Britain the present Parliament can make no law which shall bind any future one. For as the author of lex Parliamentaria or law of Parliament observes, page 77, when treating of the power and authority of Parliaments, "Though it be apparent, what transcendent power and authority the Parliament hath, and though divers Parliaments have attempted to bar, restrain, suspend, qualify, or make void the power of subsequent Parliaments; yet could they never effect it: For the latter Parliament hath ever power to abrogate, suspend, qualify, explain, or make void the former in the whole, or in any part thereof, notwithstanding any words of restraint, prohibition, or penalty in the former. For it is a maxim in the law of Parliament, quod leger posteriores priores contrarias abrogant. " Therefore should any Parliament give up, renounce, and forever quit claim to the right of making laws to bind us in any case whatever; yet it can constitutionally stipulate for no longer than that one sitting. They have as full power and authority to revive and enforce the claim at their next sitting as if such renunciation had never taken place. Is it wisdom then, or is there safety, in entering upon terms of accommodation with a power which cannot stipulate for the performance of its engagements. If we are foolish enough to do this, must not our future security depend entirely on the will of a British Parliament, i. e. of a British Ministry?
This in my opinion must form an insuperable obstacle to reconciliation in the mind of every honest man and sincere lover of liberty on the continent.
A second reason against reconciliation is, that the British constitution is so effectually undermined by the influence of the crown, that the people of Britain have no security for the enjoyment of their own liberties, and therefore America can never be safe in being dependent on such a state.
The author of "an historical essay on the English constitution," printed anno 1771, says, "I shall not hesitate to date the outline of our constitution, from the REVOLUTION. William III. and his Parliament began the practice of restraining the elective power of the people, by the legislative authority. A power that might become ten thousand times more dangerous, to the elective rights of the people, than the crown could ever possibly
be. For whenever the active parts of a government, founded upon the common rights of mankind, shall usurp a power to restrain, or destroy those rights from which they derive their authority that state is not far from destruction. "
"Thus the primary law of our constitution, the first principle upon which it was founded, which had stood the test of twelve hundred years, and been the admiration of ages, was now reduced to the common level of a nuisance, to be corrected by acts of Parliament. Our legislative authority is, by its own nature, confined to act within the line of the constitution, because it is only vested with a trust by the people, to the end they may protect, and defend them in their rights and privileges. And, therefore it is a contradiction in terms, to say, they have a right to consent to any that may restrain or destroy them. Their consent to this law was a notorious violation of the trust reposed in them." For,
"Upon this principle our constitution may be one thing to day, and another thing to morrow. It is this and that, or any thing that our legislative authority, for the time being, shall think proper to make it." But "the prevailing faction of those days" after sowing divisions among the people to destroy their power and weaken their force, "obtained a law under pretence of providing for the distemper of the times, by which they have lost——nay what have they not lost? They have lost the distinguishing character between freemen and slaves! They have lost the distinguishing character of Englishmen! They have lost, what the most tyrannical Kings of England could never force from them! They have lost, what their forefathers have been spending their blood and treasure to defend, for these thousand years! They have lost the greatest jewel that ever any people possessed! They have lost their constitutional and natural liberty, their birth-right and inheritance, derived from God and nature! They have lost their constitutional redress, for all their grievances! They have lost their all, their every thing, by that DAMNABLE SEPTENNIAL LAW."
I shall conclude my quotations from this invaluable essay for the present with the following, as perfectly applicable to America; and the foregoing extracts will not only justify but enforce the doctrine it contains, to every honest heart.
"To deduce our rights from the principles of equity, justice, and the constitution is very well; but equity and justice are no defence against power. You must take your constitutional rights under your own protection, and that quickly too, or they will be lost for ever. Protect and defend them as the apple of your eye, from danger, or, as you would your wives and children, from destruction: And never desist from using every remedy" in your power, "till you have established them on a foundation never more to be shaken, either by King or Parliament." A constitution that affords no check against its own servants, can yield no security to us.
He who has the nomination of the officers of Government, has the whole power of that government in his own hand, and may do with it as he pleases. This is abundantly proved by the present ruinous state of government in every colony, where the King or a proprietor had the nomination. Liberty will never flourish in such a government. "By the constitution of the Saxon government," says the author first quoted, "no officer, either civil or military, or even ecclesiastical, could be invested in his office, or exercise any jurisdiction or authority over freemen, without the free election of those freemen over whom he was to exercise such authority; and it is for this reason, more especially, that the people of England were denominated free ; for that by the ancient laws and constitution of the kingdom, they had this just and natural right, viz. the free election of their magistrates and Governors, without which our ancestors thought all our liberties were but a species of bondage. For of what use can liberty be to him, whose person or estate is subject to officers, &c. set over him, without his consent." How different from, and how much superior to our present form of government, was the Saxon, or old constitution of England!
These three considerations form in my opinion an insurmountable obstacle against a re-union with Great Britain. The man who has not thought upon these points, is ill qualified to judge of the necessity of independence, or the inevitable ruin attendant on re-union.
My objections are radical, reaching to the root of the evil, and if a radical cure cannot be obtained in one way, it ought to be obtained in another. To skin over the wound would be madness. I therefore once more entreat you either to point out a complete remedy for these defects, and prove it more easily attainable than a complete delivery by a declaration of independence; or to give no further opposition to the measure. He who cannot see a fair prospect of removing these defects, and yet wishes to see America return to a state of dependence, has something else in view than the liberties of his country. CASSANDRA.
N. B. No good man can agree to any terms which will not give perfect security, and a division must therefore be intended by every man who attempts to prepare the minds of the ignorant and unwary to accept of any thing else. As every writer on the side of dependence has hitherto studiously evaded the point, it appears they design if possible to effect a division. Take care then ye good people of America, not to be duped by distinguished Tories.
To the PRINTERS.
Gentlemen, PETERSBURG, May 21, 1776. FRIDAY last being appointed a public fast by the General Congress, a sermon suitable to the day was preached at Blandford church by the Rev. William Harrison, to a crowded audience. In the mean time Mr. RICHARD HANSON of Petersburg (a person not remarkable for his hospitality) was preparing an entertainment, to which he invited a number of SCOTCHMEN, who dined with him with singular satisfaction.—This is a fact, Gentlemen, which you are desired to publish in your paper, at the request of M A N Y.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
FIVE POUNDS REWARD.
ON the 15th or 16th Instant (May) my Store-House at York was broke open, and robbed of two Pair of Silk Hose, seven Silver Watch Seals set with Stone, seven ditto polished Steel Chains, a Lady's Paste Leaf, a Barber's Hone, several Remnants of Velvet, one Pair of plain oval Silver Shoe Buckles, two Pair of square plated ditto, Part of a Piece of broad Belt or Chair Lace, and a Bundle of Accounts tied up in brown Paper, wherein were several Orders, and a Letter, which can be of no Service to the Person who has done me the Injury, though of Consequence to me. I will give the above Reward on Conviction of the Villain who committed the Robbery. (11) ALLEN JONES.
FOUR very stout, good MULES to be sold, or exchanged for able Plough Horses or Mares, that will suit the Mountain Lands. Inquire of Mr. WILLIAM RUSSELL.
To be SOLD at Mr. Robert Matthews's, in Gloucester County, on Tuesday the 11th of June, to the highest Bidder, for ready Money,
THE Estate of John Wilkie, a CONDEMNED TORY, consisting of a new Schooner, with Sails, Rigging, and Boat, also one Half of a Vessel on the Stocks, with sundry other Articles. JOHN PEYTON.
ROSEGILL, May 21, 1776. WHEREAS a Report hath prevailed, in Consequence of a Gentleman's coming to ROSEGILL, with an Intention of purchasing KING HEROD, if his Terms were accepted, that the Horse was purchased, which Report, gaining Credit, hath hindered many Gentlemen from sending their Mares: This therefore is to let the Public know, that the Horse will continue to stand here and cover Mares during the Continuance of the Season.
TO BE SOLD,
PLANTATION in Henrico County, where the Subscriber now lives, containing between 3 and 400 Acres of Land, pleasantly situated, about two Miles and a Half from Richmond Town, whereon is a commodious Dwelling-House, Kitchen, Smokehouse, Dairy, Garden, Barn, Stable, Chair-House, an Overseer's House, and a Negro Quarter. The Purchaser may have long Credit, on paying Interest, and may have immediate Possession of the Houses, with a Pasture, and of the Plantation as soon as the Crop is finished. GEORGE DONALD.
Five Pounds Reward.
DESERTED from my Company of the 7th Regiment of Virginia Forces, at Gloucester Courthouse, on the 15th Day of April last, JOSEPH HASKINS about 5 Feet 10 Inches high, stout robust made, of a swarthy Complexion, and wears his own dark Hair.—Also, EPHRAIM TURPIN, a Lad about 17 or 18 Years old, about 5 Feet 9 Inches high, of a fair Complexion, wears his own Hair, and is very indifferently dressed, without Shoes or Stockings. He was taken up some Time ago, and underwent a Trial by a Court-martial at Williamsburg, agreeable to whose Sentence he received 15 Lashes for the same Offence, and was ordered to join his Company, which he has failed to do. I will give 51. Reward for Haskins, and 50s. for Turpin, to any Person who will deliver them safe at Gloucester Courthouse. CHARLES FLEMING.
CHARLES CITY, May 13, 1776.
FOR Sale, or exchange for Land not exceeding 50 Miles above the Falls of the River, 400 Acres on James River, on which I now live; also 300 Acres about 2 Miles from the River.—Those Persons who have not settled their Accounts are desired to call at the Store and have them settled by Bond, or at least acknowledge the Debt. ROBERT WALKER.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, a Middle sized red and white STEER about 5 Years old, with a Swallowfork in each Ear, the Points of his Horns sawed, or cut off. Posted, and appraised to 55s. MOODY JENNINGS.
THE Treasurer, Trustees, and Subscribers to the Fund for the Relief of the Widows and Orphans of Clergymen collected last Sunday, from the two Audiences, £. 31:16:6, for which they beg Leave to return their Thanks to the charitable and generous Contributors. On the Day following they ordered £. 32 to be distributed among seven Widows, and the Orphans of six Clergymen, and appointed Officers for the ensuing Year, viz. the Rev. Mess. John Camm Treasurer, Thomas Wilkinson, William Leigh, Thomas Price, Henry Shyring, Thomas Lundie, and James M. Fontaine, Trustees; Thomas Field Morning, and Samuel S. Mc'Cracken Evening Preacher. JACOB BRUCE, Clerk.
WILLIAMSBURG, May 11, 1776.
ALL Persons in my Debt, for Shaving, Dressing, &c. contracted before I entered into Partnership with Mr. Wylie, as well as for Washing and other Work done at my House, are once more requested to discharge their Accounts (some of which have been standing for Years) that I may be enabled to pay those Debts which I have been under a Necessity of contracting for the Support of my Family through their Neglect. If this Application proves ineffectual, and the Law should not be open to force Compliance, those who are deficient will have their Names exposed in the Gazette. Gentlemen who pay me punctually may rely on my constant Attendance, and utmost Endeavours to give Satisfaction; others can expect no more of my Services. GEORGE LAFONG.
To be SOLD by the Subscriber, at his Store in WILLIAMSBURG, the following Articles, for ready Money only.
BROADCLOTHS, Silk Patterns, black Silk Lasting, Serge Dufay, Damasius, Loretto, Tobines, Lufrings, Mufins, Gauze and Lawn Handkerchiefs, Blond, Minionet, and black Lace, Sewing Silk of all Colours, laced and plain Hats, Women's Hats and Bonnets, Gloves, Ribands, Fans, Necklaces, Paste Combs, large Dressing Glasses, black Walnut Tea Chefts and Candlesticks, Japan Waiters, painted Chimney and Table Covers, Decanters, Wine Glasses, Stands and Castors, Spanish Brown, red Lead, Whip and Croscut Saws, Scythes, Two-Shilling Nails, a Quantity of Grubbing and Hilling Hoes, broad and narrow Axes, Steelyards, Tea Kettles and Kitchens, Box Irons, Desk and Book-Cafe Furniture, Saddles, Bridles, Horse and Chair Whips, Allspice, Ginger, Indigo, white Copers, Umber, Argol, Soap, Turlington's Balsam, Greenough's Tincture for the Tooth-Ach, and a Number of other Articles not here related. WILLIAM PITTS.
I have also a LARGE and ELEGANT ASSORTMENT of SWORDS.
RICHMOND, May 20, 1776.
ON Wednesday the 5th of June will be sold, at Shocko Warehouse, to the highest Bidders, for ready Money, two Hogheads of SUGAR, eight Sacks of SALT, and Half a Hoghead of SPICE, which have been lodged there for two or three Years, without any Person claiming them. DANIEL HARWOOD.
COMMITTED to Spotylvania Gaol, a Negro Woman who says her Name is MARY-ANNE, and that she belongs to Mr. Walker of Petersburg. The Owner is desired to prove his Property, pay Charges, and take her away. JACOB WHITLER, Gaoler.

L O N D O N, January 10.
THE following intelligence was communicated by an officer of rank in the army: "Government have sent over to Germany to engage 1000 men, called Jagers, people brought up to the use of the rifle barrel guns in boar hunting. They are amazingly expert. Every petty Prince who hath forests, keeps a number of them, and they are allowed to take apprentices, by which means they are a numerous body of people. These men are intended to act in the next campaign in America, and our Ministry plume themselves much in the thought of their being a complete match for the American rifle-men."
Feb. 6. The House of Lords were altogether engaged in extraordinary affairs on the 2d and 5th of this month. The House of Commons on the 21st did not sit above three quarters of an hour. It is ordered, on the motion of Mr. Grey Cooper, that there shall be brought before the House the state of the balance found in the exchequer the 5th of January, after which they adjourned to yesterday, and were then engaged two hours on state affairs. The committee of ways and means have been successively adjourned to the 2d, 5th, and 7th of this month; and will to all appearance, until the Minister is able to determine on the demands and propositions which are to be their object.
In the mean time they continue their warlike preparations. The fleet destined to act in America, will consist of 67 vessels, viz. 7 of 50 guns, 2 of 44, 7 of 32, 12 of 28, 5 of 24, 5 of 20, 2 of 18, 6 of 16, 2 of 14, 4 of 10, 1 of 8, and 12 other armed vessels. But if they did not give attention, that they have more than 20 degrees (300 common leagues) of coast to watch, they might easily judge, that their task will not be very easy. Viscount Howe, Vice Admiral, is to command the sea forces; the Vice Admiral Shonldham, who succeeded Admiral Graves, being recalled. This Viscount, and the General Howe, his only brother, who replaced General Gage at Boston, are brethren to Viscount Howe, who was slain at the attack of Ticonderoga, 5th of July 1758, and to whose memory the Americans have erected a superb monument. The land forces, it is said, are to be divided into three bodies, one of 12000 men under General Carleton on the river St. Lawrence; the second, also of 12000, under Gen. Howe, at New York; and the third, in Virginia and Carolina, will be of 11000, and commanded by Generals Clinton and Cornwallis. These bodies to be supported and reinforced as needful by a reserved body, whose station is not yet fixed. This armament, however, meets with many obstacles, from a disinclination to the service in America. Many Captains, Lieutenants, and Ensigns, on half-pay, who were appointed the 14th of August, to serve in the new companies added to the old regiments, not having yet presented to the war-office, have been summoned anew, on penalty of being erased from the list. They are not a little embarrassed to equip the transports destined for America. Even the guard-ships are obliged to lend their hands to do the work on board their vessels.
The Count de Guignes, Ambassador from France, has taken leave of the King to return to Paris. The Prince de Masserano, Ambassador from Spain, has been very ill for some days past of an apoplexy, but he begins to grow better, and is thought to be out of danger.
B O S T O N, May 2.
Extract of a letter, dated April 22, 1776, from a master of a vessel who lately arrived upon this continent from France, which he left about the 18th of March.
UPON my arrival here I was extremely happy to hear of the good success of this country against her unnatural enemies, who are collecting all the force possible to make head against us. The account in Bourdeaux is, that 20,000 Hessians and Hanoverians are at Embden, ready to embark on board the English ships, to join 12,000 English, and sail immediately for America. This, however, you may depend upon, that about 40 sail of transports sailed from Plymouth about the 10th of March for America, with about 5000 soldiers on board; they had been, some months before, as far to the westward as Cape Finisterre, and all put back by stress of weather, and dispersed in different ports; one run on shore in Ireland, and the Captain and almost all on board perished. I suppose by this time they are very near this coast."
NEWPORT (Rhode Island) May 6.
Extract of a letter from PROVIDENCE, May 4.
A COURIER arrived this day from Boston, giving the following intelligence, by a letter from Thomas Cushing, Esq; by order of the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay.
SALEM, May 2, 1776.
To the Hon. the General Court of the Massachusetts Bay.
The committee of Salem have this moment received the following intelligence by Richard Darby, Esq; from Newbury Port, who lays, that he, this day, about one o'clock, talked with Capt. John Lee, then just arrived in 29 days from Bilboa, who says, that on the 15th of April he fell in with, and was on board, a brig from Plymouth, in England, bound to Newfoundland; the master of which informed him, that three days before he parted with a fleet of 60 sail of transports, under the command of Lord Howe, having on board 12,000 Hessians bound to Boston, together with 27 Commissioners: That General Burgoyne, with 4000 Hanoverians, sailed, or was to sail, about the same time with the fleet above-mentioned, to go to Quebec: That said Lee read the English papers on board the brig, by which it appeared that the Parliament had voted pay for the foreign troops: That the King of Prussia's demand on Great Britain had been paid: That the people in England were greatly desirous of a restoration of harmony; and that the commissioners were to use their utmost efforts to that end, which failing, the troops were to lay waste the country—in their power.
Isaac Smith, Esq; shews us a letter from Mr. Gardoque, brought by Capt. Lee, dated Bilboa, March 27, in which is the following paragraph.
"No news from England, except that 17,300 German troops were going to Boston and Canada, some of which were embarking about three weeks ago. May God preserve you is my hearty wish."
N E W Y O R K, May 8.
BY a Gentleman from Connecticut we are informed, that last week a certain Mr. Cable, in Fairfield, had sent a load of provisions to the ministerial plunderers, and was loading a second time for the same purpose, but was discovered by a Tory who was concerned in the affair, and who made oath before a magistrate of the scheme in agitation. The said Cable was observed to be sounding for deep water about the channel, which he found at a place called the Black Rock, and through which place he was to pilot a gang of cruel murderers (about 1000 in number) whose orders were to massacre men, women, and children. The signal of their landing was to be three cannon fired in the night.
This gang chiefly inhabited about Newtown, in Connecticut, and from that place all along to Dob's ferry on the North river. Cable was on this discovery apprehended and committed to Fairfield jail, and also another villain, named Pardelow, at Greenwich, who was detected in enlisting men for the ministerial service, and examined before the Committee of Safety for Greenwich, and committed to jail; two more were apprehended, but discharged for want of sufficient proof. A list of the names of a number of them that had enlisted, has been obtained, and a party of men are gone in pursuit of them.
By an express arrived last night.
A vessel is just arrived at Newbury Port from Bilboa. The Captain says, on the 14th of April, in longitude 45, he spoke with a brig from Plymouth, who a few days before parted with a fleet of 60 sail, bound to Boston, with 27 COMMISSIONERS, and 12,000 Hessians; and that General Burgoyne with 4000 Hanoverians was soon to sail for Quebec.
Extract of a letter from Brigadier General Arnold, dated Holland House, March 26, and 28.
"You doubtless expect news from me: I can write you very little. I expected before this to have had a reinforcement of three or four thousand men, but have not received one thousand. We have been some time busy in collecting materials for batteries; one of four guns on Point Levy I expect will be opened in two or three days, which will command the shipping, and great part of the town; and one on the height of Abraham of eight guns, one howitzer, and two mortars, which I hope will have the desired effect; in case they fail, we have ladders, &c. for a storm. The frigate in the harbour is bending her sails, I am apprehensive with intention to give us the slip as soon as the ice will permit; to prevent which we have one gondola with a twelve pounder mounted, and are preparing another of the same strength, which I am in hopes will command the river. We labour under almost as many difficulties as the Israelites did of old, obliged to make brick without straw. However, we hope matters will soon take a favourable turn. The season remains very severe here; we have near five feet snow on the ground, and in most places sufficiently hard to bear a man and horse; though under the snow the frost is entirely out of the ground. We have four hundred sick and wounded in the hospitals. Capt. Schillinger, of Long-Island, and Mr. Sabin of —, died a few days since; the latter was the first volunteer who arrived here after the repulse with a company. I am so far recovered of my wound, that two days since I rode 14 miles on horseback, and walked five more, reconnoitering, which fatigued me so much I have hardly been able to walk since."
" March 28. Three days since I had advice that a party of sixty men were landed at St. Pierre's, 10 leagues down the river, and that they had seized a convoy of provisions coming to the camp, with two commissaries. I immediately sent Major Dubuoy with 80 men in pursuit of them, who came up with a party of 50 odd, attacked and killed two, wounded two others, and took 38 prisoners, most of them French, who are just arrived here. Major Dubuoy wrote that he had intelligence of 250 men being in arms below. Col. Nicholson has joined him with 70 men, and are gone in pursuit of the enemy, and will, I make no doubt, give a good account of them. The inhabitants are generally in our favour, and many of them have taken up arms for us—or rather for themselves."
Extract of another letter from QUEBEC, dated March 30. "In my last I mentioned an insurrection among the people down the river, which is entirely quelled at present. The New York troops under Maj. Dubuoy attacked their advanced guards, killed seven, wounded four, and took thirty eight prisoners, without the loss of one man; seventeen of which being principals, are sent off to Montreal. We expect the heads of the party every day, as they all dispersed upon hearing of this action; but the Major continues in pursuit of the fugitives with 150 men, and intends to take their commanders."
P H I L A D E L P H I A, May 13.
BY a Gentleman from Greenwich, in Cumberland county, New Jersey, we learn, that on Monday last, about ten o'clock, a body of men from the pirate ships landed on Tindon's island, between Cohanet creek and Stow creek; that they shot down and carried off between 20 and 30 cattle from the marsh; that the militia mustered together as fast as possible, and marched down to engage them, but being discovered from the ships, a signal was given, and the men took to their boats with great precipitation, leaving five dead cattle on the shore; one of the men was so closely pursued that he dropt his musket, and narrowly escaped being taken. The ships immediately weighed anchor and stood up the river.
On Tuesday last the Roeback of 44 and the Liverpool frigate of 28 guns, arrived near the mouth of Christiana creek, supposed to be on their way to this city. The provincial gondaloes were immediately ordered to attack them, and on Wednesday afternoon they began a severe cannonading upon them, which was returned with equal warmth by the ships. The action lasted four hours, without much damage being done to either side. During the engagement Capt. Alexander, on board the Wasp schooner, of six guns, came out of Christiana creek, into which he had been chased the day before by the men of war, and retook a brig which had been taken by the Liverpool. On Thursday afternoon the gondaloes renewed their attack upon the ships with so much spirit and skill, that they were obliged to hoist sail and return down the river. The gondaloes pursued them, under a constant fire for four hours, after which they quitted the chase, and moored at Newcastle. Numbers of balls were heard to strike the ships in this action, and discoveries were made next day of considerable damage being done to them. Several of the gondaloes were slightly damaged. One man was killed in the first, and three wounded in the second engagement. The novelty of the fight, the gallant behaviour of the officers and sailors, and the important consequences of the contest, afforded a most interesting spectacle to many thousand spectators who stood on the shores. It is said the ships are now moored at Rheady island.
Extract of a letter from an officer at Montreal, April 6.
"By a Gentleman from Quebec, we have the following advices, which may be depended on: A number of Canadians at the instigation of their priests, arose, with a design to cut off the guards at Point Levy. A party under Major Dubois, attacked their advance guard, killed seven, wounded five, and took about fifty prisoners; twenty five of which arrived here last evening. General Wooster arrived before Quebec on Monday last. The battery opened at Point Levy on Tuesday morning. One of Capt. Lamb's company made his escape from Quebec, and informs, that the soldiers and prisoners are at an allowance of three ounces of pork per day. A Canadian who brought letters from Carleton to the inhabitants is made prisoner, and says (which he offers to swear to) that the inhabitants, as well as soldiers, have risen in a body and gone to Carleton, and that he promised, if he did not get assistance in 14 days, to deliver up the town."
Extract of a letter from an officer at Fort George, April 20.
"We came here two days ago, and found the Lake still closed with ice; yesterday it all vanished, when Dr. Franklin and the other Delegates immediately embarked in batteaus and crossed the Lake. Our regiment, with sundry other troops from New England and the Jerseys, set out at day break to-morrow morning. The whole of the troops that are now on the Lake and here, will amount to upwards of 1500 men; so that I think we shall make a very respectable figure before Quebec, when we all arrive: And I hope we shall not lay long here, but endeavour immediately to see what the inside is made of."
From the PENNSYLVANIA EVENING POST.
MR. TOWNE, DOCTOR JOHNSON defines the word "expedient," as a thing necessary to be done, which implies, that it cannot be expedient to do evil; therefore the word "expedient" can only be applied to the promoting a good purpose, but you will
find it frequently mentioned in the King's speeches; and in Parliament Ministerialists make a monopoly of it, and apply it altogether to the use and service of his Majesty, to wit, "it is become expedient to shut up the American ports;" "it is expedient to destroy their trade;" "quite expedient to take their vessels;" "expedient to bring them under our feet;" "expedient to humble them;" and highly "expedient to reduce them to absolute submission." General Gage found it expedient to fire upon a few unarmed peasants, and kill eight of them; he found it expedient to burn Charlestown, &c. &c. &c. Lord Dunmore found it expedient to burn Norfolk, &c. &c. &c. General Prescott thought it expedient to put Col. Alien in irons, and transport him; and Governor Tryon thought it expedient to write to the Mayor of New York, that "the commander of his Majesty's ships of war found it expedient to burn the pilot house;" and General Howe found it expedient to quit his strong hold at Boston and escape from it, after he was general by General Washington; and some of his Doctors found it expedient to mix a quantity of arsenick among the drugs they left behind, as a bait for the Yankee rats to nibble at, and all for the service of his Majesty; so that it seems to be a court favourite word, and become high treason for an American to use it, or apply it. What would the Ministry and Parliament have done had there been no such word?
We hope the Americans will not adopt their language, and instead of the word "expedient," say "necessary;" and that it is now become highly necessary to oppose those ministerial GRAMMARIANS, lest they should also attempt to defile our language, as they have defiled our land with blood.
A M E R I C A N S! awake, awake!
Your liberty your all's at stake: Behold your foes, huge angry swarms, Proclaim loud war, to arms! to arms!
Raging Britannia's haughty lairds Have charg'd their arms and drawn their swords, They call you rebels, cowards, knaves, And doom your unborn babes for slaves.
Deaf to your cries, the royal ear Quite stop't, will no remonstrance hear; Their counsellors in blood rejoice, And make destruction wide, their choice.
Then bend your bows, your arrows bright Shall pierce like rays of morning light. Prepare for war, it is no crime, It's virtue, and it is high time.
The great Almighty Lord of Hosts With watchful eyes defends our coasts, Tho' fleets and bands of warlike pride Appear; in him we will confide.
Rude Britain's haughty, angry frown, Freedom's strong wall would batter down; But the foundation stands secure, GOD laid it, and it must endure.
Swift to the field ye heroes fly, Nor fear to sweat, to bleed or die. The glorious cause demands your breath, Freedom is cheap, tho' bought with death.
Union, aloft Urania-sings, And beats the air with golden wings; Great WASHINGTON prepares the way, Nor can he doubt to win the day.
With life and toil his armies march, Tho' winters freeze, and summers parch; Not hunger, thirst, nor cold nor heat, Shall ever make them to retreat.
Let the inglorious coward quake, And up the yoke of slav'ry take: Liberty's sons shall gain the prize, And unto fame immortal rise.
A VIRGINIAN.
W I L L I A M S B U R G, May 25.
Extract of a letter from Col. WOODFORD to General LEWIS, by express, dated Norfolk, May 22.
THE vigilance of my guards has occasioned the enemy to abandon their lines at Portsmouth. This, and some fire rafts I was preparing, has likewise occasioned the fleet to go off. They have thrown over their salt, burnt the most indifferent of their small craft, and are all now below Cray island, except four ships, which are opposite the distillery, but under way likewise. One of the 14th regiment, and five sailors, have deserted, they inform me they have the smallpox. I have given very particular orders to avoid this evil, if it be true. They all concur in the same story, and likewise that the fleet is bound for Cape Fear; but I doubt whether my Lord does not intend a secret expedition to some other part of the colony. I received the enclosed letter, and list of prisoners from Lord Dunmore, and have sent orders to the guard at Portsmouth to destroy the enemy's works."
S I R, Ship Dunmore, May 22, 1776.
ENCLOSED is a list of prisoners on parole, who ought to have returned last Sunday. I therefore think proper to inform you, that if you do not order them to return to me on or before the 26th instant, that I shall most certainly not only not grant the same indulgence to any that shall hereafter fall into my hands, but punish every man of them as they deserve, if ever they fall into my hands again. I am, Sir, your most obedient humble servant.
To the commanding officer on shore. DUNMORE.
List of prisoners on parole, who ought to have returned on board the Dunmore the 19th of May, 1776. James Nimmo, John Nimmo, Jonathan Woodhouse, John Woodhouse, ——— Robertson, ——— Fountain, Cantwell Garrison, Tully Boony, ——— Hagley, ——— Thompson, ——— King, ——— Roberts, ——— Taylor.
Extract of a letter from Major HENDRICKS to General LEWIS, dated HAMPTON, May 23.
"I wrote you this morning that 30 sail of the enemy's fleet were moved down the river, since which it appears that their whole fleet is in motion. From our church steeple I can see 60 or 70 sail of vessels of different kinds, hovering about the mouth of James river. What they mean is impossible to tell."
It is imagined that Dunmore's fleet are coming out in search of provisions, every kind of which is so very scarce with them, that the quantity formerly allowed to a single man is now obliged to serve four.
We have had various accounts of the arrival of the Hessian troops, and commissioners at Philadelphia, but none can be depended upon as authentic.
GLOUCESTER, May 13. Last Saturday were united in the most sacred and indissoluble bands of wedlock, THOMAS PAYTON, Esq; of Gloucester, to the amiable Miss NANCY WASHINGTON of the same county, a young Lady possessed of every accomplishment requisite to make the marriage state happy, with a thousand other good qualities which must render her a very deserving consort to a sensible man.

ALL Persons indebted to the Estate of John Shermer , deceased, by Bond or otherwise, are desired to make speedy Payment, and those who have Demands against the said Estate are requested to bring them in, that they may be discharged.
THRUSTON JAMES. DUD: RICHARDSON. GEORGE BOOTH.
A VALUABLE LIBRARY of BOOKS TO BE SOLD.
For a CATALOGUE, and TERMS, apply to the Printers of this Gazette. 4
WILLIAMSBURG, May 18, 1776.
I INTEND to leave the Colony shortly. All Persons who have Demands against me are desired to bring in their Accounts to Edmund Randolph , Esquire, properly attested. WALTER BATTWELL.
To be SOLD to the highest Bidders, at next HENRICO Court ,
A TRACT of LAND containing 660 Acres, for Mr. George Seaton's Life . The Land lies on the Brook , about 7 Miles from Richmond . Two Years Credit will be allowed, and Bond and Security required, by (2) JOHN HICKMAN.
HALIFAX Town, North Carolina, April 19, 1776.
For SALE , on moderate Terms, and long Credit,
SUNDRY Tracts and Parcels of LAND lying in this Province, viz. One Tract in Tryon County , commonly called the Great Cove , containing 6000 Acres of as fine Land as any in the Province, is within 60 Miles of Salisbury , a Town of considerable Trade. Also about 2000 Acres in said County, on Chintal Run , equally as good as the former, both noted for the Goodness of Range. One Tract in Orange County , within 9 Miles of Hillsborough , containing 340 Acres, very good for Corn, wheat, or Tobacco. One Tract in Bute County , on Shocco Creek , within 40 Miles of Halifax Town , containing about 3000 Acres. As fine Tobacco may be made on this Land as any in the World, and it is excellent for Corn or Wheat, with enough cleared, and in good Order, to work twelve Hands. Also about 5000 Acres more in different Parts of said County, very good for Tobacco or Grain. Likewise 4000 Acres in this County, within 15 Miles of Halifax Town , which is very good for Grain, and excellent Range for Stock of all Kinds. Also a Tract within 4 Miles of Edenton , situate on Albemarle Sound , commonly called Moseley's Point , containing 2200 Acres, good for Tobacco or Grain, and very convenient to Shipping, with good Improvements thereon, and cleared Land sufficient to work 20 or 30 Hands. Also sundry other Tracts in Northampton , Bertie , and Martin Counties , situate on navigable Rivers, and very good for Grain. Likewise Houses and Lots, well improved, in Halifax Town , Campbelton , and Newbern . Any Person inclined to purchase any of the said Tracts of Land, or Houses and Lots, may know the Terms by applying to the Subscriber. The above Lands, &c. belong to the Estate of Joseph Montfort , deceased, and to be sold by (6) HENRY MONTFORT, Executor.
TO BE SOLD,
THE noted valuable Tract of LAND and PLANTATION whereon Henry Webb formerly lived, lying on Flat River , and on the main Road to Hillsborough in North Carolina , containing about 900 Acres, together with 320 Acres adjacent, whereon are Improvements of all Kinds fit for the Reception of a Gentleman of Fortune. Credit will be allowed, if required, for a considerable Part of the Purchase Money. For further Particulars inquire of the Subscriber, on the Premises.
ORANGE County, North Carolina, April 29, 1776. 2|| TYRIE HARRIS.
RUN away , on Tuesday the 19th Instant, three Virginia born Negro Men Slaves, the Property of Col. John Fry's Estate , viz.  HARRY , about 5 Feet 8 Inches high, well made, yellow Complexion, has a Scar on his Face, is a sensible artful Fellow, and about 30 Years old. YORK , about 5 Feet 10 Inches high, a stout, likely, well made Fellow, black Complexion, one of his Legs smaller than the other, has a Scar on one of his Arms, occasioned by a Burn, and about 26 Years old. ADAM , about 5 Feet 7 Inches high, yellow Complexion, thin visaged, bushy Hair, and about 40 Years old. It is impossible to describe the Clothes they carried with them, having different Kinds. Whoever will deliver the above mentioned Slaves to Mr. Richard Adams , in Richmond Town , Mr. Thomas Adams , in New Kent , Mr. Henry Fry , in Culpeper , or to the Subscriber in Buckingham , shall be paid 40s. for each of them. (tf) JOHN NICHOLAS.
Fifteen Dollars Reward.
RUN away from the Subscriber in Spotsylvania , near Carr's Bridge , on Sunday the 5th Instant ( May ) two Negro Fellows, namely , GABRIEL and BEN . They rode off a likely bright Bay Horse about 15 Hands high, branded on the near Buttock 69, has a short Neck, and one of his hind Feet white. Gabriel is yellowish, about 5 Feet 8 Inches high, bandy legged, has had a Sore on one of them, which leaves a Lump upon his Shin, near the Size of a small Hen Egg, has been a waiting Boy, is sensible and talkative, and 19 Years old. Ben is about 5 Feet 11 Inches high, near 30 Years of Age, stoops in his Walk, has very thick Lips, a gloomy Look, stammers in his common Discourse, and if spoke to unexpectedly, cannot return an immediate Answer. He has, till lately, gone by Water on Pamunkey , York , and Mattaponi Rivers , on all which he is well acquainted, from the highest Warehouses downwards. He has a Wife at Col. John Snelson's in Hanover , where he may be lurking, but I rather suspect they will endeavour to get on Board some of the Governor's fleet. I will give twelve Dollars Reward for securing the Negroes in Gaol, so that I get them again, or six Dollars for each, and three Dollars for the Horse, with all reasonable Charges for bringing them Home. (6) ROBERT HART.
TAKEN up , in James City , a brindled STEER , two Years old, marked with two Crops, and a Hole in the left Ear. Posted, and appraised to 50s. JOHN SHAYE.
TAKEN up , in Buckingham , a BAY MARE about 4 Feet 4 Inches high, about 7 Years old, paces very well, has two Saddle Spots on her near Side, a large white Blotch on the off Side, and several Spots. Posted, and appraised to 10l. ROBERT BAGBY.
TAKEN up , in Buckingham , a BLACK HORSE about five or six Years old, four Feet high, with a small white Spot in his Forehead, trots and gallops, branded on the Shoulder and Buttock AL in a Piece, and had on a small Bell. Also a brown HEIFER about three Years old, unmarked. Posted and appraised, the Horse to 4l. and the Heifer to 35s. || FLAMSTEED RANSONE.
TAKEN up , in Mecklenburg , a SORREL ROAN MARE about 9 or 10 Years old, with a white Streak down her Face, is about 4 Feet 7 Inches high, her hind Feet white, and branded on the near Shoulder O . Posted, and appraised to 8l. || GEORGE TERRY.
TAKEN up , in Bedford , a SORREL MARE about 6 or 7 Years old, 4 Feet 7 Inches high, with a light Mane and Tail, a large Star, and a small Blaze almost to her Nostrils, a Snip on her Lip, several Saddle Spots, and branded on the near Shoulder P . Posted, and appraised to 8l. || ADAM LINN.
THE Subscriber having been for a long Time past afflicted with a bad State of Health, intends soon to the Northward to endeavour to obtain Relief, and will therefore be much obliged to those who are indebted to him if they will pay their Balances as soon as possible; those who have it not in their Power are requested to come and settle their Accounts, and give Bonds, or other Specialties. All Persons having Demands against me may apply for Payment. SEVERINUS DURFEY.
FREDERICKSBURG, May 8, 1776.
STRAYED, or STOLEN , on Wednes- day the 2d Instant, a likely BAY HORSE , near 15 Hands high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, one hind Foot white, a Blaze in his Face, a Snip on his Nose, several Saddle Spots, paces and gallops remarkably easy, but not branded. I imagine, if strayed, he has made towards a certain Duet's Ordinary , in Louisa , where he was bred. Whoever secures the said Horse, and delivers him to me, shall have 50s. Reward, or if stolen, 5l. on Conviction of the Thief. || CHARLES MORTIMER, Jun.
To be RENTED,
THE Tenement lately occupied by Zenith Tate (formerly by Fortunatus Sydnor ) upon Shoccoe Hill , in the Town of Richmond , to be entered on immediately. For further Particulars inquire of Joshua Starrs , or the Subscriber, in Goochland . || JOSEPH WATKINS.
TWENTY POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Sussex County , about two Years ago, a Negro Fellow named JIM , about 24 Years old, of a yellowish Complexion, is bow-legged, has a remarkable long Head, his Hair was nicely trimmed when he went away, and his fore Teeth are very open. As it is probable the said Slave may be stolen, or detained by some Villain, from the Length of Time he has been gone, any Person who will bring me the said slave, or convict the Thief (if stolen) shall receive the above Reward from 4 THOMAS HUSON.
STRAYED, or STOLEN , from Samuel Cobb's , in Amelia , the 7th of March , TWO HORSES , viz. a CHESTNUT SORREL about 4 Feet 10 Inches high, with a Blaze Face, some of his Feet white, and some remarkable dark Spots on his off Buttock; the other a BAY , about the same Height, with a Blaze Face, and carries his head, when rode, very straight. Neither of them are branded that I know of. Whoever delivers them to me in Cumberland County shall have 10 Dollars Reward, or (if stolen) 10l. on Conviction of the Thief. || EDWARD MUMFORD.
HALIFAX (North Carolina) April 12, 1776.
ALL Persons indebted to the Estate of Joseph Montfort , deceased, are desired to make immediate Payment, or give Bonds for their respective Balances. All those who have Demands against the said Estate are desired to make them known to 6 HENRY MONTFORT, Executor.
TO BE SOLD,
THE Houses and Lots wherein the Subscriber now lives, in the Town of Petersburg , consisting of a large Dwelling-House, Storehouse, and all convenient Outhouses, in good Repair; a large Garden and Pasture adjoining, and the Situation equal to any in the Colony for Business. It is so well known, that a particular Description is unnecessary. Also a few House Servants, Household Furniture, &c. A Lot in the Town of Petersburg , and 400 Acres of good Tobacco Land in Charlotte . The Purchasers may have Possession immediately, and the Payment made easy by giving approved Security. As I intend leaving the Colony, those who have any Demands against me are desired to apply for Payment; and all Persons indebted, it is hoped, will either discharge their Accounts, or think it reasonable to give Security.
As the Purchasers of the Land in Ward's Fork , belonging to John Lidderdale , Esq; of London , are in some doubt of their having a Right, this is to inform them, that the Deeds will be sent, properly executed, with an Acknowledgment of Mrs. Lidderdale's Right of Dower, when the Times will admit of an Opportunity, and may be assured of having a most undoubted Title made them. They will likewise please to observe, that the Deeds will not be recorded till the Money is paid, agreeable to the Terms of Sale. And if any of the Purchasers are in Doubt of my being properly authorised to make Sale of the Lands, they may be fully satisfied at the Secretary's Office, where the Power of Attorney is recorded. (12||) RICHARD HANSON.
RUN away from the Vineyard, a little below Williamsburg , a Negro Man named SAUNDY , 5 Feet 6 Inches high, about 27 Years old, knock-kneed; had on, when he went away, a dark red Newmarket Coat . I have been informed he is lurking about Williamsburg . Whoever brings him to me shall have 15s. Reward, besides what the law allows. || ANDREW ESTAVE.
TO BE SOLD,
THE PLANTATION where I now live, containing 320 Acres of Land, situated about three Miles above Petersburg , whereon is a large new Brick Dwelling-House 54 Feet by 32, with four Rooms and a flush Passage below Stairs, and five Rooms above, very commodiously contrived, and the Building well executed; a Brick Kitchen 32 Feet by 16, two Rooms below and two above Stairs, with all other necessary Offices in good Repair, and several Orchards of the best Kinds of Fruit Trees. This Seat being well known, I think a more accurate Description unnecessary. The Time of Payment will be made easy to the Purchaser, and the Terms known by applying to Mr. Thomas Ruffin , or ROBERT NEWSUM.
Just come to Hand, and to be SOLD at this
PRINTING-OFFICE,
A large and exact VIEW of the late
BATTLE at CHARLESTOWN,
Elegantly coloured, Price one Dollar.
Also an excellent MAP of
The present SEAT of CIVIL WAR,
Taken by an able Draughtsman who was on the Spot at the late Engagement. Price one Dollar.
A CATALOGUE OF
BOOKS
FOR SALE
By DIXON & HUNTER, at a low Advance,
FOR READY MONEY.
FOLIOS.
CHAMBERS's Dictionary of Arts and Sciences, 2 V. Jacob's new Law Dictionary. L'Estrange's Josephus. Laws of Virginia.
QUARTOS.
Afruc on the Venereal Disease. Blackstone's Commentaries on the Laws of England, 4 V. Boyer's French and English, and English and French, Dictionary. Complete Farmer, being a general Dictionary of Husbandry in all its Branches. England's Bloody Tribunal, or Popish Cruelty displayed. Foster's Discourses on all the principal Branches of natural Religion and social Life, 2 V. Hedrico's Greek Lexicon. Kenrick's new Dictionary of the English Language. Lucani Pharsalia. Life of Edward Lord Herbert of Cherbury, written by himself. Pope's Works, 5 V. Preacher's Directory, or a Series of Subjects proper for public Discourses. Warden's System of Revealed Religion. Young's Experimental Agriculture, 2 V. OCTAVOS. Afruc on Midwifery. Alexander's Experimental Essays. Adanson's Voyage to Senegal, the Isle of Goree, and the River Gambia. Addison's Miscellaneous Works in Prose and Verse, 4 V. An Account of the Spanish Settlements in America. Burn's Justice of the Peace, 4 V. Brookes's Practice of Physic, 2 V. Buchanan's History of Scotland, 2 V. Broughton on the Nature and Circumstances of the Life to come, Ball's Practice of Physic. Bradley on Husbandry and Gardening. Book of Martyrs, or the History of Paganism and Popery. Beattie on the Nature and Immutability of Truth. Isocrates, 2 V. Callender's Voyages to the southern Hemisphere, 3 V. Charlevoix' History of Paraguay, 2 V. Crantz' History of Greenland, containing a Description of the Country and its Inhabitants, 2 V. Delaney's Life of David King of Israel, 2 V. Drelincourt's Defence against the Fears of Death. Duhamel's Elements of Agriculture, revised by P. Miller, 2 V. Dialogues of the Dead. Ditton's Discourse concerning the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Dialogues between a Pilgrim, Adam, Noah, &c. containing the History of the Bible and the Jews. Duclo's History of Lewis XI. King of France, 2 V. Every Man his own Lawyer. Essay on the Nature and Conduct of the Passions and Affections. Emerson's Astronomy.—Do. Fluxions.—Do. Arithmetic. Essays selected from the Encyclopedy. Edinburgh Dispensatory. Fenning's English Dictionary. Freval on the Character of true Christian Charity displayed. Frazer's History of Kouli Khan, present Emperor of Persia. Gillie's Devotional Exercises on the New Testament. Gordon's Universal Accountant and Complete Merchant, 2 V. General Compting-House, and Man of Business. Glass's Art of Cookery made plain and easy. Galt's Rudiments of the Grecian History, from the first Establishment of the States of Greece. Gibson on the Diseases of Horses, 2 V. Gregory's Treatise of Practical Geometry. Harmonia Sacra, or a choice Collection of Psalm & Hymn Tunes. Hall's Contemplations on the historical Passages of the Old and New Testament, 3 V. Hill's Family Herbal.—Do. Arithmetic. Hammond's historical Narration of the whole Bible. Hutchinson's Inquiry into the Original of our Ideas of Beauty and Virtue. History of the Island of St. Kilda. Harte's History of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, surnamed the Great, 2 V. Howell's Familiar Letters, domestic and foreign. History of the Islands of Cape Breton and St. John. Harris's Treatise of the acute Diseases of Infants. Hume's Essays on several Subjects, 2 V. Johnson and Steven's Shakespeare, with Correction and Illustrations of various Commentators, 10 V. Johnson's English Dictionary, 2 V. Keill's Astronomical Lectures, read in the Astronomical School of the University of Oxford. Kennett's Antiquities of Rome. Locke's Essay on the Human Understanding, 2 V. on the Conduct of Understanding. Langhorne's Translation of Plutarch's Lives, 6 V. Lord Bacon's Letters, Speeches, Charges, Advices, &c. Ledran's Observations and Operations in Surgery. Letters from a Gentleman in the North of Scotland to his Friend in London, giving an Account of the Manners and Customs of the Highlanders, &c. 2 V. Miller's Gardeners Kalender, directing what Works are necessary to be performed every Month. Moss on Gauging. Morgan's Disquisition concerning Human Nature, Free Agency, Moral Government, and Divine Providence. Melmoth's Cicero, 3 V. Maxwell's Practical Husbandman, being a Collection of miscellaneous Papers on Husbandry. Manning on the Diseases of pregnant and Child-bed Women. Medical Observations and Inquiries, by a Society of Physicians in London, 3 V. Moore's Practical Navigator, and Seaman's New Daily Assistant. Martin's English Dictionary.