The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1770-06-14 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE
Open to ALL PARTIES,
but influenced by NONE
From the PUBLIC ADVERTISER.
As the happiness of a kingdom is proportioned to the wisdom of its Governor, the education of a Prince will be of the highest importance to the people. The heir to the first office in this empire is now arrived at a state of pupilage. Upon him the public eye is fixed, with the most anxious attention. His tutor has undertaken an arduous employment, in which, if it be his ambition to acquit himself with rectitude, a brief delineation of his duty cannot offend him.
To the TUTOR of the PRINCE of WALES.
SIR, THE manner in which you execute the task you have undertaken, will render your name either venerable or infamous. As your Prince is young, his heart is untainted, and therefore susceptible of the best impressions. Impart then upon it, this maxim, of all others most momentous, that EVERY MAN BY NATURE IS EQUAL. Precedence is not due to birth, but desert. Teach him to reverence the UNIVERSAL PARENT, to love his country, and to obey its laws. Inspire him with the desire of glory, and the dread of shame. Convince him that the higher he is elevated, the less he can be concealed; that the more power he is invested with, the more cautiously he should act; that a King should be less conspicuous from the Ensigns of State, than the splendor of his virtues. Let him never think himself a Prince till he has banished calamity from his Kingdom, reedified its ruins, annihilated tyranny, and established freedom. A state should ever be present to the mind of its Sovereign. Love to his subjects alone can secure their affection to him. Arms and treasures are insufficient guards for Kings: Friends are their best defence, and these are to be acquired, neither by force nor by riches, but fidelity, and good offices. In the choice of his counsellors let him accurately deliberate; when determined, let him confide in the men of his choice. To distinguish between a friend and an enemy in disguise, is a qualification of the highest worth, and which few Princes have ever possessed. Deserved praise will be an incitement to virtue, flattery its most baneful poison. To suppose that those love us, whom we do not esteem, is an error, and to demand what they will not give is injustice. Nothing is less restrained than the human heart; it acknowledges no master, it knows no subjection. Let his breast be never opened to suspicion, nor his ear inclined to calumny. Let him never mark his designs to others, nor pry into what they would hide. Let him be always what he appears and he will have no interest to be concealed, he will no more dread the eye of a foe than a friend.
The title of most serene implies that a Prince is elevated above the commotions of passion. The breach of his word is despicable in him, dangerous to his subjects. Upon his veracity depends their tranquility, and why should he wish to deceive, whose advantage it is that all men should speak truth? Let freedom of access be proclaimed to the meanest of his subjects. He was not born for himself, but the public; and then only is he properly employed, when administering to the public good. His first object should be to labour for his people's happiness and to watch for their preservation. No office is more glorious, none more arduous; such a servitude is the highest dignity! When called to punish, mercy, with the tenderest address should guide his hand. It should ever be engraved upon the heart of a Prince, that of all the virtues, clemency is most divine .
The life of a King should be a model to his people. It is by him they will regulate their conduct. He therefore becomes responsible for the crimes they commit from his example: How irreproachable then should be his manners! Teach him to contemn luxury and to trample upon pleasure.
Let him study the lives of those who have dignified humanity, that he himself may add to their number. Then he should consider as guides in the road to glory. Let him compare his conduct with theirs, and this will elevate his soul. How sacred is that emulation which arises from the love of virtue! Let him, with equal attention, consider the misconduct of his predecessors, and that shall secure him from destruction.
Such, Sir, are the outlines of your duty. Accomplish what you have undertaken. He who partakes of the glory should share likewise the toil.
JUNIUS.
I WRITE from the most authentic intelligence, when I assert that the continuance, or the dissolution both of the Parliament and the Ministry, is to be determined by the conduct of the city of London in particular, and of the nation in general.
The Duke of Grafton, who meanly assumed, and resigned his employments, with equal submission to the will of Lord Bute, is requested to declare, upon his shattered remains of honour, whether or no he was not present at the perusal of a letter from that atrocious exile, in which was inserted the following sentence:
"Let the petitions pass on unnoticed, which, without accumulated remonstrances, so far from shaking the stability of the Crown, will scarcely weaken the full extension of its power."
I do not affirm that such pernicious counsel derived its source from the unhappy Scot: And yet it is so little short of treason to the House of Hanover, that few, less candid than myself, would hesitate to fix it solely upon him. He was, indeed, the ignominious stream through which it flowed; but were we to trace it to the fountain, still more contaminated than the channel, the name of Holland would be pronounced with double detestation by a defrauded people.
Should the glorious conduct of the Livery be directly imitated by the leading counties, the King will dissolve the
Parliament, change the Administration, and wash away the least paternal action of his reign, by sending back that Chancellor to the people, who had abilities to understand, and spirit to assert the laws. The widow, the orphan, and the injured, mourn at his removal, and view with equal anguish and resentment, the times in which the guardian of their rights was told by his disgrace, that it was criminal to defend them.
If the recent measures of the capital should close the frenuous, but vain endeavours of the nation; if the great and good, within the different counties, neglect to retain their influence to its utmost point, still will the Sovereign be deluded, and the people injured. The Minister will easily persuade him that the clamour is but partial; and must subside the sooner, in proportion to the contempt with which he treats it. An Assembly which represents nothing, whose decrees should be as impotent as they are wicked, will only be prorogued, whilst its corrupted Chief is to put on the spoils of law, and equity; and, as the Lord High Chancellor of England, precedes in rank, the men whom he, with difficulty, precedes in infamy.
Sir Fletcher's principles will far outstrip the tainted politics of former times: He, like his patron, fears no rival of his fame from all the possible corruption that can infect the future ones. Even the memory of Jefferies may become spotless by comparison, and Strafford seem the friend of liberty, when thrown into the scale against a Grafton.
I am concerned to find that no amendment in the ministerial department, is to preclude some tools of power from being gratified with Peerages. If ligial marks of Royal approbation fell, like the rain from Heaven, with much less reason should we murmur at creations. The partial Throne will only imitate the Deity by halves, and while it scatters titles with unlimited profusion, is cautious lest they should "descend upon the just." It were a miracle, indeed, to see the coronet and the mitre surround the brows of virtue, or sit upon the heads of science.
Whatever may be the fate of the Remonstrants, posterity will bear record to their honour: The language in which their sentiments are conveyed, is at once respectful, yet intrepid. It is the genuine, but uncommon voice of men, prepared to sacrifice their lives to save a good Prince, or to oppose a bad one. It should be heard aloud in every state. The most restrained, and most despotic Sovereigns may learn from this, to prize, and to secure the noblest lot of human nature, THE PRIVILEGE OF REIGNING OVER A FREE PEOPLE.
The King who has the cruelty to spurn at intercession, and trample upon the sacred form of liberty, when kneeling multitudes implore him to protect it, should be convinced, that what intreaties might have lost, contention can obtain.
In states without one wholesome law to curb the power of unfeeling rulers, the measures of an insulted people must be at once daring and decisive. The sufferings of such subjects are truly to be pitied. Their struggles for the violated rights of human nature demand our warmest admiration: The most which these can hope for is to fall lamented, and approved. But it is our peculiar felicity to find a shelter from such extremities in the united excellencies of our constitution, and the virtues of our Sovereign. He who glories in the name of Englishman, will banish all the criminal distinctions of favourites and relations, and make his last and best appeal to his expecting people. It were injudicious to suppose, that their remonstrances will not be listened to with the most gracious attention, and the sincerest promises of redress.
If ever allegiance and affection glowed in the honest, unsuspecting bosoms of an united people, it was at the accession of their Sovereign to the Throne. Even now, whilst they are stung with disappointment, and blush at their credulity, they do not bid adieu to hope, although the misery of experience has shewn them much to fear. An English King can never be the tyrant of unresisting slaves. The very attempt implies destruction. It ill becomes the father of the noblest children upon earth to hesitate one moment in the acknowledgment of his error, or his determination to redress them. But to consult with men beneath whose strokes the constitution bleeds at every vein, were to become at once ridiculous and infamous. An application from the Sovereign to such a Ministry and such a Parliament, on the propriety of attending to the intreaties of the people, would resemble the folly and corruption of a judge, who might believe it wrong to pass a sentence, unless the criminals approved it.
The conduct of the Roman Emperor, the Amor, ac deliciae generis humani , was once mentioned to our Sovereign as a pattern for his own: Nor has he yet forgotten how finely Titus has observed, Non opertere quemquam a sermone principis tristem discedere .
JUNIUS.
Mr. RIND,
CONSIDERING the many advantages that Virginia enjoys in soil, in fine navigable rivers, and numerous creeks, that empty themselves into the famous bay of Chesapeake, it is astonishing that it has not improved more, and that the people, who are very capable, have not applied themselves more to trade and commerce for that purpose. The northern governments are not blessed with so good a soil, so hospitable a climate, nor such friendly shores; yet the inhabitants, by dint of industry, and close attention to commerce, have extended it to all parts of Europe, and even to Africa. What their natural situation denies, they have supplied by industry and trade; their country is full of large towns and villages, their streets are crowded with people, and every wind brings some of their own ships to their ports. Though they have no staple, they have outdone those that boast of certain and beneficial ones, and even from the very shores of such colonies, they gather wealth. They pursue the uncertain prey through unknown tracks, and by perseverance and close attention, find such account in the pursuit, as to encourage a continuance of it. I might
instance Rhode-Island and New-York, that they, by the same means, are wealthy and full of people. Pennsylvania, that is much nearer to us, abounds in towns, villages, and a city indeed! a city (though but of yesterday as to us) that may vie with many in Europe; none goes before it for regularity; it hath seminaries of learning that do them honour, receptacles for the poor and indigent, planned with consummate wisdom, and supported with care, honesty and industry. They vie with each other in the execution of each trust, and all endeavour to aggrandize themselves and country by commerce, and establishing useful arts and manufactures. To what is this owing? To a spirit of trade and commerce; this has diffused itself amongst all ranks and degrees of people; their lands are dear, their quit-rents high, and taxes not light; yet they are flourishing and wealthy: Much might be said for these wise, these flourishing colonies; but enough I hope has been said to cause my countrymen to reflect on the great advantages that would accrue to Virginia by the same means.
We have only one Act of Assembly that any ways favours the trade of the colony, an exemption to Virginia owners from paying the duty of two shillings per hoghead, and the tonnage and fees on tobacco loaded vessels, and half fees on all other vessels belonging to Virginia owners; but as the trade is ingrossed by the merchants of Great-Britain, and carried home in their own bottoms, but small advantages arise to Virginia by this indulgence. In 1684 Virginia owners were exempted from paying a duty on rum and wine. Beverly says, when that exemption ceased, it was a great discouragement to their shipping, and home consumption.
Our trade then is chiefly confined to the importation of a little rum, sugar, and molasses, and even these under a disadvantage. In the neighbouring colonies, the importer pays no duties, even if a stranger (in a free bottom) it is paid by the retailer and consumer. To this I have heard objected, it is no matter whether the importer pay it or not, seeing that each individual pays that uses it. I answer it is of material use. If the consumer and retailer pay it, the importer is on a par with the importer in the neighbouring governments, he can sell as cheap, and the purchaser has no encouragement to buy from the other governments, nor they any advantage or encouragement to sell their rum on this side. It would be of great advantage to our merchants, in getting more freight from the West-Indies, and an encouragement to the Gentlemen of the islands, to send more rum into Virginia for sale: By this means, freight and commissions would fall into the hands of our merchants, which certainly would be a benefit to the colony. As the law now stands, the neighbouring colonies have certainly a great advantage over the Virginia merchant, they can sell rum four pence per gallon cheaper; and this they do to a very considerable amount, without paying a farthing duty, especially in Potomack river, which is a great discouragement and prejudice to the Virginia side of that fine river, and in its consequences hurtful to the colony. They take from us our gold and silver for that commodity, when, on the other hand, was the law altered, they would be obliged to give us those precious metals (as Hume calls them) for our wheat and flour, and perhaps be obliged to enter on this side, from which both fees and tonnage would center in Virginia. These are facts that, I think, cannot well be disputed, and are certainly worth the attention of the legislature. As other governments have adopted a mode of excise, in collecting the duties on spirits, and continue them, they no doubt find it of use. I know that the name excise is something disagreeable; but when it is an imposition of our own, and laid on mere articles of luxury, I cannot conceive that it should carry such alarming ideas with it. Those colonies that have adopted it, are equal with us in their love of freedom, and would be far from doing any thing that would carry with it the least appearance of bondage. They find this mode salutary, they flourish under it, in commerce, wealth and plenty. Let us, my countrymen, not be above following the same plan, because others have gone before us. What is good, let us follow, and only reject those things that are hurtful. In the seven united provinces, very few (and those very small) duties are imposed; they have scarce an acre of ground to support each individual, yet they could keep the great Louis (as he is stiled) whose subjects are numerous, and thirteen acres of land to support each individual, from enslaving them, and in spite of his ambition, men and money, they remain free and flourishing. This is owing to a close and sedulous attention to commerce; they have extended their settlements to each quarter of the globe, and even the English and Scotch courts furnish them with riches annually to an almost incredible amount, and nurses a prodigious number of seamen. Commerce and industry has made them so very considerable, that they are courted and respected by superior powers, and hath reduced money as low as two per cent. What, but the genius and close attention to commerce, has made our Mother country so wealthy and so powerful, as to be able (almost singly) to contend with the maritime powers of Europe? Let us, my countrymen, imitate such examples; let us have laws adapted to the genius of trade and commerce, take off intirely the duties on spirits to Virginia owners, or lessen the duties, to take away the temptation to smuggling, and give such encouragement in other respects to Virginia owners, as may induce them to extend their commerce. Establish a bank or loan office, or on some good plan issue paper money. Some plans have been offered to the public not injudicious. Let not the opinion of arithmetical politicians weigh with you; these speculative Gentlemen are often mistaken; this may easily be made appear. Paper money, on a good plan, cannot be injurious, nor will it banish gold and silver as some apprehend. Some say loan office will be a means of many persons spending their fortunes, by enabling them to get cash on their estates. Surely this will never weigh; a man of dissipation, will never want means to waste his fortune; he does not want the aid of a loan office. Many instances can be brought to

pertinent to this purpose, that it is needlessly add on this head. The scarcity of cash, and the low exchange, are grievances that call for immediate redress; the well being of the colony requires it, and it is hoped that this Assembly will take it under consideration with attention, and endeavour to give relief in this, and remove, to the utmost of their power, every burthen to which trade is now subject. These are certainly very interesting objects, and it is hoped that every friend to his country will contribute to forward
Much more might be said on this subject, but I hope these hints are sufficient to rouse up my countrymen to consider on proper ways and means to encourage trade and commerce, and to put us on a footing with the neighbouring colonies. The enacting laws to encourage commerce will induce men of property to sit down amongst us, launch out into business, and extend our trade. This, in time, will make us wealthy, add weight to our resolves, and this his Majesty's ancient colony be more on a par with his junior ones, who at present seem to go before us in almost every thing. A FRIEND TO VIRGINIA.
Mr. RIND,
O ECONOMICUS in Mr. Pordie's May 31st, having, in my opinion, reasoned pretty justly against a paper bank in this colony, I will beg leave to add a small hint more to what I have before written against something like a bank to be raised in England also. It is quite immaterial to me who first broached such a scheme, but my reason against erecting such a thing in any country, abroad, is deducible from the arbitrary methods we see made use of in the world, to control that bank, just as Princes or Ministers shall think proper to affect the proprietors concerned in it. When the inhabitants of one country lodge their money in the bank of another, upon every occasion of a quarrel or dispute, they evidently put themselves in the power of that kingdom or country, in proportion to the quantum of the money that they lodge there. Now as I hope we shall all continue most heartily engaged to preserve our liberties against the Parliamentary oppressions of Great-Britain, it must be a scheme of the most stupid nature imaginable to make the least attempt to lodge our public money there. For, as I observed in the paper written upon your correspondent X's scheme, a Treasurer not under our own direction, may be productive of a prodigious prejudice to the colony; to be sure then when both our money and money keepers are placed under the arbitrary control of that very oppressive power, all our endeavours for the preservation of our liberties must needs be very futile and ineffectual; because the same heavy finger of Parliament that has already most sensibly oppressed us, will be felt in a much heavier degree, when it shall be laid upon our money lodged there. No one can say with any justice they will not fall upon such a method that does in the least consider how arbitrarily they have pursued the measures they have taken. Mr. X then will be kind enough to himself, as well as to the public, to tell us of what value our paper notes can be, when the stock for its redemption shall be stopped to compel us to submit to their in- -nal taxation. And if Oeconomicus pleases, the same argument will add a further weight to what he has advanced against a bank here, to be raised by public authority; for I still insist upon it, that we cannot, according to the British constitution, appoint our own Treasurer, but at the will of the Sovereign; and let that be ever so mercifully inclined to us, we have reason to be satisfied how it will be extended, from the very form of, as well as the proceedings upon, the Revenue Acts.
I have certainly as great cause to be affected with the scarcity of circulating cash in the country as any common member in it. However, I would not have Gentlemen, like some people, impatient of bodily disorders, be too hasty in their endeavours to remove this or any other evil brought on by imprudence; because we frequently see such methods fallen upon, instead of effecting a real cure, produce some fatal consequences with the dispatch attempted to be made in the cure. We cannot but be satisfied that our former extravagance (if not the immediate cause) at least lent a considerable hand towards this scarcity. Therefore, whilst we are engaged by this potentior armis , this associating against the importation of British goods, to force those arbitrary powers, even upon a commercial view of things, to remove their weight of oppression from us, as one of the good effects to ourselves must certainly be a continued frugality, if there can be any thing in the cure of evils by their contraries, our extravagance ceasing, must, in a short time, remove the whole climax of inconveniences, most undoubtedly brought upon us by it. C— R—
Conclusion of the REMARKS begun in Number 212.
IV. THE commission here alluded to, is formed in the most arbitrary mould, that the most tyrannous times could invent. That too, it is to be hoped, will be a subject of future inquiry, and redress. But what I would particularly, at this time, offer to the attention of the public, is the extreme abuse and imposition that has been thrown upon them, by the advisers and abettors of this scheme of taxation; for carrying which into execution, this board of commissioners, with all the most arbitrary powers, was established.
The tax has been regularly collected through America . I assert this, not only from a knowledge of the fact, but from the acknowledgment of the Ministerial people in the House of Commons. Yet from the accounts laid before the House, last session, the whole produce of the tax, which in its effects is attended with so many dangerous consequences to the peace of America , and the commerce of Great Britain , is not a fraction to the public. They have contrived to appropriate the whole produce of this revenue, to the maintenance of a crew of officers. A set of catiff wretches, who, in league with the incendiary of America , are endeavouring by every possible misrepresentation to incite this country to persevere in measures, from which they are to derive their incomes, by the misery and ruin of millions. It is to the informations of these interested men, that some people pretend there is officially a credit due. As if an interest to deceive were an earnest of sincerity; and truth were to be despised, because it came not from the servants of the crown.
Now can any thing be more criminal, than to endeavour to persuade men, that the support of this barren tax, at all events, is necessary to maintain the supremacy of this nation over her disaffected colonies, and to alleviate the burden of the national debt, under which she groans? When the undeniable fact is, that there subsists no disaffection in America ; nor can any alleviation be drawn from a revenue, which is totally consumed by the officers who collect it. Nor, were the produce to increase seventy fold, is it probable the public would reap from it the least benefit; because the commissioners are strangely empowered to create
as many officers as they may think proper, and appoint them what salaries they please out of the revenue. So that it may well be presumed, they will increase their officers, and augment their salaries, in proportion to the fertility of the revenue. Though it must be confessed, there is little probability of its increasing.
V. Nothing can be more certain, than that without the intervention of the legislative, the executive government, unless it were military, could not exist in the colonies. Therefore they who have devised this new system, either act without a plan, or they mean to change the old form, modelled by the free principles of the British constitution, into an absolute military government. And it is the duty of every honest man, to use his utmost efforts, and offer up his most earnest prayers to Heaven, that they may never succeed.
I have observed, in the commencement of these REMARKS, that nothing but an abolition of the system adopted in the 4th year of his present Majesty, can regain the affections of the people of America , retrieve our commerce, and recall that confidence in the honour, wisdom and justice of Great Britain , which is essentially necessary to the subordination of one free people to another. This opinion I mean expressly to repeat, and that I may be perfectly understood, I must beg the reader's attention to the following enumeration of their grievances, arising from that system, which, to compose this ruinous contention, must be fully redressed.
First , The having their property given away without their participation or consent, as by the acts of the 4th Geo. III. ch. 15. the 6th Geo. III. ch. 18. the 7th Geo. III. ch. 46.
Secondly , The introduction of the odious and arbitrary powers of excise, into the customs of America ; as in the 7th Geo. III. ch. 41. for enabling his Majesty to establish a board of commissioners in America , with what powers he pleased; and in the 9th Geo. III. ch. 15. with the 8th Geo. III. ch. 22. for erecting Vice Admiralty courts in America , making all causes of revenue triable in them, either by original process, or by appeal, without jury, and under the decision of a dependent party judge.
Thirdly , His Majesty's commission to the American board of commissioners, which lays open the subject's house to the will and pleasure of them and of their servants; without warrant upon oath, or the intervention of the civil magistrate.
Fourthly , Taking from the assemblies of America all freedom of debate and determination, by the act of the 7th Geo. III. ch. 59. for suspending the legislative power of New-York .
Fifthly , Attempting to extend to America an obsolete and arbitrary act of Henry VIII. for trial of treason and misprisions of treason, by which the subject there would be deprived of the fair trial to which he is entitled both by the common and statute law of the land; and exposed to the most grievous exertions of tyranny and injustice.
Whoever will consider these grievances, will perceive how impossible it is that any people impressed with the least sense of constitutional liberty, should ever patiently submit to bear them. Their tendency is too evident; and the total subversion of every right and security derived from that sacred constitution for which our ancestors fought and conquered, is too undeniable a consequence of them, to leave any American in doubt whether in this case, Submission and Slavery are the same.
If the commerce with America is of any value to Great Britain ; if the rights of humanity are interesting; if the introduction of absolute government into so great a part of the united empire is dangerous to the liberties of the rest; then I will venture to say, the cause of America is the common cause of every friend to liberty and to humanity throughout the King's dominions; and that the people of this country are moved by every consideration of virtue and of wisdom, to espouse a cause, in the issue of which their feelings as men, their commercial interests, and the principles of their constitution, are so deeply concerned.
LONDON, April 2.
IT was on Friday reported on the Exchange, that there have been great commotions in Lisbon; that the King had been dethroned, and his principal Secretary of State (who in a manner governed the King) saved himself from the fury of the populace, disguised in the habit of a mule-driver, and thereby got undiscovered to Badajoz.
April 4. It is said that overtures have been made to the minority, which, it is said, are likely to bring about a reconciliation.
It is also reported, that a noble Lord has presented a plan to a great Personage for the accommodating the present unhappy divisions.
By letters from Gloucester we are informed, that they are making there the greatest preparations in order to celebrate the Day of Mr. Wilkes's enlargement.
We also hear that they are making the same preparations at Hertford.
As Mr. Wilkes's day of enlargement is so near, it is asserted the Middlesex Remonstrance will be delayed till that time, when the said Gentleman will attend in the double character of Member for the county and Alderman.
April 6. A correspondent acquaints us, that the wished-for event of the seals being restored to Lord Camden is not far distant, and ventures to foretel that the illuminations on that occasion will, if possible, be more general on this side the Tweed than they were in April, 1746, upon the signal overthrow of the Scotch Rebels at Culloden, by his late Royal Highness the Duke of Cumberland. He further assures us, that at the same time the Lord Mayor will set two thousand men to work on removing the Scotch embankment on the north side the Thames.
April 9. All obstructions to Mr. Wilkes's enlargement being now removed, that patriotic Gentleman will take his final leave of the King's Bench to morrow se'n-night about 9 o'clock in the evening.
A new society is establishing by the friends of Mr. Wilkes, under the title of the Liberty Beef Steak Club, who are to meet this week, for the first time, at Appleby's, in Parliament street. Amongst others, Sir Robert Bernard, Mr. Townsend, Mr. Sawbridge, Mr. Trecothick, Mr. Wilkes, &c. are admitted members.
It is said that Mr. Wilkes intends, on his enlargement, to come out incog. from the Marshall's K. B.
The next day after Mr. Wilkes's enlargement we are informed, a court of Aldermen will be summoned to
swear him in Alderman of Farringdon Ward Without.
After the above Gentleman has gone thro' all his business, we hear he intends to spend a few months at Bath.
April 10. Yesterday the petition of the county of Kent was delivered to his Majesty by John Calcraft, Esq.; John Sawbridge, Esq.; and James, Esq.; The petition of the county of Kent, notwithstanding all the influence of government, was signed by upwards of two thousand seven hundred freeholders.
Yesterday the remonstrance from the county of Middlesex was presented to his Majesty at St. James's by the Sheriffs Townsend and Sawbridge, &c.
We are told, that all contests for the present session are at an end between the majority and the minority, and that before next winter such a coalition will take place, as, by an equal participation of honours and emoluments, will render the balance of patriotism pretty even, and leave it a disputable point which are best friends to the community.
The public business having been much retarded by the divisions among the members, it begins now to multiply so fast, that what with framing of bills for repairing of roads, inclosing of commons, cutting canals across the country, and other necessary improvements and regulations, the Gentlemen appointed upon committees were never so fully employed, and it is much questioned whether the Parliament will rise so soon as has been given out.
We hear a bill will speedily be brought into Parliament making it felony to compel people either to light bonfires, or to hang out lights; a regulation which, together with the penalty to be laid on breaking of windows, will, it is believed, secure the future tranquility of this metropolis.
Some people are very assiduous in procuring a protest against the late remonstrance of the city of Westminster.
April 13. Yesterday his Majesty, attended by his Grace the Duke of Ancaster, and the Earl of Denbigh, went to the House of Peers, when sundry bills received the Royal assent, among which are the following, viz.
The bill to continue an act for punishing mutiny and desertion in the American colonies.
The bill for repealing part of an act for granting certain duties in the British colonies in America .
An effort was made on the 9th instant, by a motion made in the House, by Alderman Trecothick, to have the duty on TEA taken off, but it was carried in the negative, 80 to 52. To the worthy Inhabitants of the ward of Farringdon Without.
Gentlemen, Freemen, and Fellow Citizens, I CANNOT sufficiently acknowledge and applaud the persevering spirit and cheerfulness, with which you have struggled through the various difficulties arising from my inability to attend the duty of this great and respectable ward. My future conduct will best show the sense I have of so singular an obligation. The tedious imprisonment, to which I was sentenced for the firm opposition I made to a wicked Ministry, is at length happily passed. By regaining my liberty this day, I hope to acquire the power of rendering you real services, and from the superior rank you have conferred on me, of becoming more eminently useful. I shall not fail to attend the next Court of Aldermen, when, in support of your rights, I mean to lay claim to, and insist upon, the being admitted and sworn into office, as having the honour of being elected by the general voice of so considerable a part of the city.
It is a particular satisfaction to me, Gentlemen, that I am to enter on my duty at a time when we are governed by so excellent a Chief Magistrate, and have Sheriffs of the most liberal principles, zealous promoters of the public good, and of approved virtue. But above all I rejoice that the big spirit of liberty, joined with prudence, temper, and intrepidity, in so peculiar a manner now animates the whole body of the Livery of London. The late petition and remonstrance will reflect honour on them to the remotest ages. The English history does not give a stronger instance of the uprightness of our countrymen, nor an example of any body of men more untainted by corruption, more uninfluenced by every consideration of fear or interest, and more calm, yet determined, in a great cause. In the time of the last Stuart King, during the general confusion, when the dastardly tyrant fled, the principal Nobility and Gentry resorted to our Guildhall for protection, and concerted with our ancestors, the citizens of this metropolis, that generous and equal system of power, which was established by the people at the glorious revolution, and confirmed by the succeeding Parliament in the Bill of Rights. We have seen the most valuable of those rights, the right of representation in Parliament, openly violated. On this important occasion the Livery of London have shown themselves the worthy descendents of such ancestors. The petition and remonstrance have carried that enormous grievance to the throne in a spirited and becoming manner. I trust that their public virtue and firmness will at last triumph over the tyranny of the present administration, and that our Sovereign will restore the constitution, thus shaken from its foundation, by the speedy dissolution of a House of Commons, abhorred by all good men, odious to the whole nation, and the validity of whose acts is now daily arraigned by their former constituents. Such a consequence I think must soon follow from the noble conduct of this city, and of other great and public spirited bodies of men. After that happy event the people of England may expect from their true friends in a future honest Parliament, the three essential, and only effectual remedies of this disempowered state, acts for the exclusion of placemen and pensioners, for the short duration of Parliaments, and for an equal representation.
I know, Gentlemen, how much the power and wealth of this great city depend on its trade and commerce, which have always flourished most in the freest states, and never arrived at perfection but under the patronage of liberty. I shall therefore be ever ready to receive your directions on these important points, and in whatever relates to the prosperity of this city, and the particular interest of our ward. Every probable plan for the advancement of the common welfare, as well as every mercantile consideration, shall have its due weight in my mind. I will ever be a zealous defender of the rights and privileges of the Livery, and of all the freemen of London. In the concerns of this extensive ward I hope to have the advice and assistance of my constituents, every one of whom may be assured of that attention and regard, which I owe to those, by whose delegated power I act, and for whose interest I accepted this important trust. It shall be my constant and earnest endeavour to justify to the world the choice you have been pleased to make of me as your alderman, and to approve

myself an upright Magistrate, and a good citizen of the capital of the British empire.
I am, Gentlemen, Freemen, and Fellow Citizens, with gratitude and respect, your affectionate and obedient humble servant, JOHN WILKES.
April 18, 1770.
To the Gentlemen, Clergy, and Freeholders of the county of Middlesex.
GENTLEMEN,
I OBEY the strong impulse of a lively gratitude, when I thus employ the first moments of my liberty to thank you for the many favours you have conferred on me during a long, cruel, and unmerited imprisonment. My sufferings the two last years were endeared to me, as well as rendered truly honourable, by the support and protection of the friends of freedom. The trial was indeed long and severe, but the most happy consequences have followed. The favourable opinion you were pleased at first to entertain of my integrity and fortitude has been confirmed on a variety of occasions, and I have experienced as frequent proofs of your unwearied zeal for your country, and steady regard to me. I will go on with the same spirit in the cause of a brave and free people. To their service, to the defence of the laws, and to the preservation of the religious and civil liberties of the whole British empire, the remainder of my life shall be dedicated. I rely solely and entirely on your protection, and I will form no connection, which may in the smallest degree warp me from my duty to you, either as the dependant of a Minister, or even as the servant of the Crown, for I think a representative of the people ought to be perfectly free and unbias'd, in order more effectually to keep every Minister in awe, and to oppose every encroachment of the prerogative, against which the House of Commons was established as a firm barrier. I will therefore know no influence in Parliament, but that created by the constitution, that of the constituents over their representative, and I do not mean to acknowledge any other constituents than those patriotic friends, by whose favour I am the legal member for the county of Middlesex.
I reflect, Gentlemen, with great satisfaction, that the many tedious months of my harsh confinement were not uselessly employed in the common cause of public freedom. I have enjoyed in prison the fruits of my long labours, the glory of destroying that dreaded engine of arbitrary power, so cruelly employed of late, and so often fatal to our countrymen, a general warrant. After every delay of privilege and chicane from May 1763, an upright jury in last November declared a late Secretary of State guilty. No punishment however has reached that first and great offender. The Treasury paid the fine and the whole expence of the prosecution, and he has been even rewarded with the custody of the Privy Seal. The very superior abilities of my worthy colleague, Mr. Serjeant Glynn, were exerted through the whole of this important cause. To his indefatigable zeal and love of legal liberty, every subject of this empire has the most essential obligations. I have taken care that all the proceedings in this great struggle of the people against the usurped power of Ministers shall be entered in the proper court, and I hope the record will remain unaltered to our latest posterity, as a complete triumph of liberty over despotism. I feel with indignant sorrow, that I have not been equally successful in another national concern, which I had at heart, I mean a strict Parliamentary enquiry into the horrid massacre of our countrymen in St. George's Fields, on the fatal tenth of May 1768. I gave to the public all the original papers respecting that wicked shedding of innocent blood, by which the land is defiled, and I offered to bring the evidence to the bar of the House of Commons. The only hope which now remains to us is, that the virtue of a future Parliament, faithful to the trust reposed in them by the people, will soon pursue the murderers, that justice will at length overtake them, and that the most shocking of all crimes will not be left unpunished. The horror of the action is still fresh in the mind of every man of humanity, and I hold it to be the greatest reproach of our age and nation, that so many of our fellow subjects have been basely murdered by an inhuman soldiery in St. George's Fields, and other hired ruffians at Brentford, without a single victim to the public justice of our country, to the future security of our lives, or to the violated laws of God and man.
The state of this country, Gentlemen, is truly alarming. The House of Commons have not only rejected a member chosen by a majority of the freeholders, but likewise obtruded upon you a person, whom you never elected. They have openly assumed the whole legislative power. By their vote they have declared an incapacity, where the law of the land, and common right, rendered the party eligible to Parliament. This proceeding is a direct attack both on the form and essence of the constitution, a flagrant violation of the fundamental privileges of Englishmen, and a robbery committed on every elector of the kingdom, even in the most invaluable of all his possessions, the right of representation in the House of Commons. You have petitioned, you have remonstrated, in the spirit of true sons of liberty, but in vain. The reason is most manifest. The measure of my expulsion and incapacity was previously settled in the cabinet, and only brought to Parliament by the Minister in order to go through the common forms, as other business in the usual course of the session. The nation, however, are not the dupes of this artifice, and they regard the present House of Commons as no longer a just and fair representative of the collective body of all the electors in this united kingdom, and therefore they do not hold that the power and authority of a legal House of Parliament is inherent in the Assembly now sitting at Westminster.
I am happy, Gentlemen, to leave a hateful prison without the least spark of anger or resentment against the authors of all my sufferings. I have no malice nor revenge to gratify. I feel no passion, but that of gratitude to my friends, and my only enemies shall be those of my country, those who still manifest a rooted, unrelenting malice against the liberties of this kingdom, and who endeavour to entail
slavery on us and our posterity. If my persecutions are not yet ended, I will continue to bear up as a man, firm and determined in the best of causes, nor for your sakes will I scruple to dare all the vengeance of those wretched Ministers, who are now the rulers over us, but possess neither the confidence, nor the esteem of the people. If his Majesty be graciously pleased to listen to the cries of a loyal but injured nation, and to remove a most corrupt and despotic administration, who are every day basely and desperately stabbing the very vitals of the constitution, I shall then hope to live among you in the enjoyment of the first blessing and the most sovereign good, liberty, both personal and political, and when I can no longer be useful to my country, to die happy in the applause of the friends of freedom, and of England. I am, with deference and regard,
Gentlemen,
Your faithful, and obedient humble servant, JOHN WILKES.
April 16. We hear that Mr. Wilkes has sent circular letters to all his friends, requesting them to exert their utmost influence to preserve good order among the people on the day of his releasement.
We hear that the several clubs which have elected Mr. Wilkes one of their members, have all made contributions for the total discharge of that Gentleman's debts.
April 17. Late last night advices were received, that Gibraltar is taken by the French and Spaniards; and it is absolutely certain that at 12 o'clock, the same night, Count de Chatelet (the French Ambassador here) set out suddenly for Paris.
BOSTON, May 21.
Last Saturday failed, with a fair wind, for London, the sad mortification of all the tories male and female, who have been using all the tricks which the grand cabal were capable of inventing to embarrass and hinder her voyage, the good ship Lydia, Capt. Scott, laden in part with British manufactures and other goods, lately imported from Great Britain contrary to the agreement of the merchants of America, to the amount of upwards of FIFTEEN THOUSAND POUNDS Sterling. The remainder of the goods lately imported contrary to the said agreement, will be re-shipped in the very next vessel for London.
WILLIAMSBURG, June 14.
Departed this life on the 3d instant, WILLIAM WESTWOOD, of the county of Elizabeth City, aged about 73, who was many years a representative for the county, in which office he acted to the general satisfaction of his constituents. He was charitable, benevolent, hospitable and kind; willing to relieve the distressed, even to his own loss; he was a father to the fatherless, and a benefactor to his neighbours in general. His death is much lamented by all his acquaintance.
Last Sunday, in a thunder gust, a large tree, not far from the college, was struck with lightning, and sixteen sheep, that had taken shelter under it, were killed on the spot.
The Harrietta, Clarke, from London; and the Totness, Hudson, from Liverpool, are arrived in York river; and Capt. Power, also from London, in James river.
The Molly, Barron, from Virginia, is arrived at London.
CHESTERFIELD, June 9, 1770.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of the late Col. Richard Kennon, are desired to pay their respective balances speedily, to prevent suits, which must absolutely be brought against those who neglect this notice, to prevent the ruin of the said estate; and those who have any claims against it, are desired to make them known to EDWARD OSBORNE, Executor.
NORTHUMBERLAND county, June 11, 1770.
For FREIGHT or CHARTER, A NEW Schooner, that will carry about 700 barrels, that can be launched in 6 days. Any person in want of such a vessel, may be supplied by applying to HEATH DAMERON, & Co.
KING GEORGE, June 2, 1770.
To be SOLD at public sale, upon the premises, on the 1st Saturday in July next, between the hours of twelve and three,
A TRACT of land, in the county of King George, on the back road, leading from Morton's warehouse to Falmouth, about six miles from the former of those places, and seven miles from the latter, and within a mile and a half of a good landing upon Rappahannock river. The tract contains 300 acres by a late survey, 200 of which is good wood land, with a great plenty of all kinds of timber; the rest cleared, of which there is about 30 acres of exceeding fine low grounds. The whole very proper for corn, wheat, or tobacco, and there is a tolerable good apple and peach orchard. Twelve months credit will be allowed, the purchaser giving bond, with approved security, to WILLIAM BRUCE.
THERE is now in Rust's Warehouse, Westmoreland county, a hoghead of tobacco, marked TF in a piece, No. 27, gross 1160, net 1079, tare 81, inspected May 26. 1764, payable to William Booth; and also a hoghead of tobacco in Wicomico warehouse, in the same county, marked LR in a piece, inclosed in a diamond, No. 29, gross 798, net 704, tare 94, inspected June 24, 1765, and payable to Richard Lee, Esq; FLEET COX, } Inspectors. SAMUEL RUST, }
Now for sale by the subscriber, on board the ship Speirs, at Osborne's warehouse, on James river,
A choice parcel of Gold Coast SLAVES.
JOSEPH TUCKER.
WESTMORELAND, May 10, 1770.
THE Nomony FULLING-MILL under my care, being now completely fitted, all those who are pleased to favour her with their custom, may depend upon having their cloth finished with the utmost expedition, and in the neatest manner. Though the prices hitherto charged, were agreeable to the custom of the northern colonies, yet as this mill was erected principally with a view of encouraging our own manufactures at this time, when the use of British is utterly destructive of our liberty, therefore the following low rates will for the future be charged, and it is expected the money will be sent when the cloth is taken away, otherwise the mill will by no means support herself. For fulling, 4d. per yard, dying all shades of drab, 2d. per yard, other colours 4d. except fine greens and blues, which are more costly; shearing 2d. per yard each time the shears go over the cloth, which must depend upon the fineness of the cloth, and the use it is intended for.
It is impossible to make good work, unless the cloth has been properly managed before it is sent to the mill. The following directions, if complied with, will enable me to give that satisfaction to my customers, of which I am very desirous.
Separate the fine parts of the fleece (which are the neck, shoulders, back and sides) from the coarse; spin the warp as hard as possible, but of an even hardness; the filling very loose and even; never spin coarse wool into fine thread; the cloth will always be harsh; the least width should be ells; cloths intended to be dyed, must be kept clear of spots or stains; they will always show.
We dye and dress jeans and fustians to look as well as those from England. Wool and cotton dyed in grain of any colour. Those who favour us with their work are desired to write fully how they would have it done.
BENJAMIN BROOKS.
King William, sc.
To all Sheriffs, Mayors, Constables, and Headboroughs, within this his Majesty's colony and dominion of Virginia.
WHEREAS John Wily, sen. of the county of Caroline, was lately a prisoner in the gaol of this county, charged in execution at the suit of John Russell, for the sum of 1051. 3s. 4d. with interest from the 8th day of January, 1770, and the costs, exclusive of said interest, amounting to 1181. 1s. 2d. 3, and that the said John Wily is escaped out of the gaol aforesaid, and going at large. Therefore, in his Majesty's name, I command you, and every of you, in your respective counties, cities, towns, and precincts, to seize and retake the said John Wily, and him to convey to the prison where debtors are usually kept, in the county where he shall be retaken, and him deliver to the keeper thereof, together with this warrant. And I charge and command you the Sheriff or keeper of the said gaol, to receive into your gaol and custody the body of the said John Wily, and him there safely to keep until he shall have made full satisfaction to the said John Russell for his debt and costs aforesaid, or until he shall be discharged by due course of law, pursuant to an act of assembly in that case made and provided.
Given under my hand and seal this 8th day of January, 1770.
3
JOHN QUARLES.
LOST between Williamsburg and York, a large genteel gold snuff-box, with the picture of an elderly Lady on the inside of the lid. Any person who can give intelligence of it, so that it may be got again, shall have a reward of five pounds, and no questions asked. ARMISTEAD LIGHTFOOT.
RUN away from the subscriber in Winchester, Virginia, an Irish servant man, by trade a cooper, of the middle size, dark complexion, black hair and eyes, halts, occasioned by a hurt in his heel or ankle, has lost an upper fore tooth on the left side, calls himself John Holmes (alias Commodore) writes indifferently: He served as a soldier under General Braddock, as he says, and in other campaigns, and pretends to have been a prisoner amongst the Indians. Was taken on ship board last summer at the cove of Cork, and landed at Alexandria; is fond of spirituous liquors, and a remarkable reprobate when drunk. Had on and took with him his common wearing apparel, together with shirts and trowsers of country made linen, a vest of snuff coloured country cloth, without sleeves, and some coopers tools. I imagine he will make for a sea port, or some of the frontier garrisons. Any person that secures him in any gaol, so that I get him again, shall receive a reward of three pounds, or if brought home to me five pounds, and reasonable charges. And as he has been treated with great humanity, I hope every person will make it a point to secure so ingrateful a villain, should he fall in their way.
3
ROBERT RUTHERFORD.
In the Brilliant, Captain Robinson, from London, ANDERSON and Co. have just imported
A LARGE and complete assortment of DRUGS and MEDICINES, to be sold either wholesale or retail, at the lowest advance, for ready money or short credit. Among a variety of other articles are the following. viz. Mace, cloves, cinnamon, white ginger, black and long pepper, brown sugar candy, capers, olives, anchovies, best and common oils, Freeman's cordial, Daffy's, Squire's, and Stoughton's elixirs, Turlington's and Fryer's balsams, eau de luce, &c. &c. ANDREW ANDERSON.

VIRGINIA, sc. At a General Court held at the Capitol, the 5th day of May, 1770. The Hon. John Tayloe, Esq; plaintiff, against William Alexander, & Sons, merchants, in Edinburgh, and Andrew Grant, merchant, defendants,
THE defendants William Alexander , and Sons, being beyond sea, and not having entered their appearance, according to the rule of this court, on the motion of the plaintiff, it is ordered, that the other defendant, who hath effects of the said Alexander , and Sons, in his hands, as is suggested, do not pay, convey away, or secrete such effects, until the further order or decree of this court, concerning the same; but that he deliver up such effects, or so much thereof as will be of value sufficient to satisfy the demand of the plaintiff, unto the said plaintiff, upon his giving security to the clerk of this court, for the return of such effects, in such manner, and to such persons, as this court shall hereafter adjudge. And it is further ordered, that the said defendants, William Alexander , and Sons, do appear here on the first day of the next court, to answer the bill of the said plaintiff, and that a copy of this order be, within fifteen days, inserted in the Virginia Gazette , for two months successively, and published on some Lord's day, immediately after divine service, in the church of the parish of St. Paul , in the county of Stafford , and posted up at the front door of the Capitol, in the city of Williamsburg .
BEN: WALLER.
TRAVELLER
STANDS this season in Williamsburg , where he will cover MARES at Ten Shillings the leap, and Forty Shillings the season. He is near 15 hands high, and got by Old Traveller, out of an English mare of the Hon. John Tayloe , Esq; and is now in full perfection. There will be great care taken of the mares, and a good pasture for them to run in, and any kind of grain will be received as pay, at the market price. 3
COMMITTED to the gaol of Chesterfield county, two Negro men; one of them named BEN , a low squat fellow, who seems to be between 40 & 50 years of age, with a grey beard; the other named HARRY , a tall slim black fellow; they both say they belong to William Smith , but can give no account where they came from, or how long they have been out. Neither of them can speak but very few words in English so as to be understood. The owner is desired to prove his property, pay charges, and fetch them away.
JAMES BALL, Gaoler.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Hanover county, about the 1st of September , a Negro man slave named WILL , about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, is a very remarkable fellow, has but one eye, and was outlawed some time before Christmas . Masters of vessels are forewarned carrying him out of the colony. Whoever brings the said Negro to me shall have 40s. reward, besides what the law allows: and if taken out of the colony 5l. HENRY GILBERT.
N. B. He was formerly the property of Mr. Arthur Dickenson , of York county, and may probably be lurking thereabouts.
Indian creek, Northumberland county, May 30, 1770.
RUN away from the subscriber three slaves, viz. a dark Mulatto named MICHAEL , about 5 feet 7 inches high, is well set, about 25 years old, by trade a shoemaker; also a light Mulatto, about the same size, named LEWIE , one of his arms has been broke, which occasions a stiffness in it; he is a brother of Michael's , and are supposed to be together; also a Negro, about 40 years old, named WILL , by trade a carpenter, about 5 feet 6 inches high; he is supposed to be about York . Whoever will deliver them to me shall receive TWENTY SHILLINGS reward for each, besides what the law allows. JOHN SMITH.
RUN away from the subscriber, at Petersburg , about a month ago, a Mulatto fellow named PETER , about 22 years of age, has a bushy head of black hair, a small cross on one of his cheeks, one of his fore teeth broke at one corner, leather breeches, and a dark coloured coat and waistcoat bound; he was taken up at Williamsburg , and put into the public gaol, and in bringing home got away between Capt. Howell Briggs's and Freeman's bridge.
He has broke open a cellar at Petersburg , and stole near 50l. value; he is a sensible fellow, and I imagine will try to get out of the country for fear of a trial. FIVE POUNDS reward, if taken out of the country, and 20s. if taken in the colony.
HALCOTT PRIDE.
RUN away from the subscriber, the first day of November last, (under pretence of suing for his freedom) a likely young fellow, named Bob , of a yellow complexion, slim made, near six feet high, has a remarkable down look, is a very good blacksmith, and, as supposed, is harboured by some white man of that trade. Whoever will bring the said fellow to my house in Dinwiddie county, near the court-house, shall receive a reward of FIVE POUNDS.
JOHN HARDAWAY.
WHEREAS I have undertaken the agency of the estate of Benjamin Grymes , made over in trust to the late Hon. Presley Thornton , Esq; and Mr. William Fitzhugh , of Somerjet , for the benefit of the creditors, and by articles entered into by the Hon. John Tayloe and Francis Thornton , executors of Col. Thornton , and Mr. William Fitzhugh , surviving trustee of the said Grymes , I do hereby give this public notice that I am now entered on the duty of that business, and shall attend the public courts in Williamsburg , in April , June , October , and December , and shall be ready at all times to execute any orders I may receive for pig or bar iron. Having the supply of two forges with pigs, I can always execute orders for bar with punctuality. And as the above Gentlemen have undertaken to support me in my contracts, the utmost punctuality may be depended on, which I shall expect in return, as the estate cannot admit of giving any indulgence. If proper encouragement is given by a subscription among the mercantile part of the colony, and a supply of sea coal can be had on reasonable terms, the blomery for making castings may be set to work again in the fall.
ANTHONY THORNTON, jun.
WE do hereby certify, that we have entered into articles with Mr. Anthony Thornton , jun. to be agent of the estate of Mr. Benjamin Grymes , made over in trust for the benefit of his creditors, and that we have undertaken to make good all his contracts for that estate.
JOHN TAYLOE, F. THORNTON, WILLIAM FITZHUGH.
WILLIAMSBURG, May 4, 1770.
AS I am determined for the future to receive more money, or have less business in the way of my profession, I take this method, in order to prevent unnecessary applications, of declaring, that I will not for the future undertake the management of any cause, unless my fee is first paid down, or a bond given for it payable, with interest, 12 months after the date of such bond: Nor will any letter to engage me in any cause, for the future, meet with the smallest attention, or answer, that does not inclose either the fee, or such bond for it; and that no person may be deceived, they will please to observe, that it is my determined resolution, to put every such bond in suit, which is not discharged within one month after it becomes payable. Every person who favours me with their business upon the above terms, will meet with my grateful acknowledgments, and may depend upon the exertion of my utmost abilities to serve them. With regard to those, who, at the time they pretended to be my friends, could coolly set still, and see me reduced to the necessity of selling my slaves to a very great disadvantage, and yet withhold the small sums due to me, which, if paid, would have removed that necessity. I leave it to their own hearts to determine, whether they deserve any further indulgence. Every person therefore indebted to me before the first day of January last, who does not before the first day of August next, either send the money due, or a bond for the same, payable with interest in 12 months, may depend upon being sued immediately after that time, in the General Court, if the sum due amounts to Ten Pounds, and in any county I can catch him, if under that sum.
THOMSON MASON.
* I shall be in Williamsburg from the 20th of May , till after the court of Oyer , in June .
THE subscriber hereby gives notice to the public, that he now keeps ORDINARY in Hanover town. Those who are pleased to favour him with their custom, may depend on good entertainment for themselves, pasturage for horses, and that no trouble shall be spared on his part to accommodate them so as to give satisfaction. WILLIAM CLARKE.
TAKEN up by the subscriber, in June last, on his plantation on Chappawansick , in the counties of Prince William and Stafford , a bright bay mare, with a star in her forehead, several saddle spots, and branded on the near buttock R B. Also taken up at the same time a bay horse colt, one year old, supposed to belong to the same mare, these creatures were posted regularly in both counties last summer, but upon hearing from the Hon. Col. Robert Burwell , that he had lost such, the advertisement was not inserted in the paper. The creatures, as they appeared to be valuable, were fed very high, and the advertisements lost, since which being claimed by three different persons, I have posted them over again, and shall expect that whoever owns them, will send persons to prove their property, and pay the expence of wintering them, and of this advertisement. 3 THOMSON MASON.
TAKEN up, in Amelia county, a black horse, about 4 feet 7 inches high, paces and trots, shod before, appears to have been worked, by the hair being rubbed off his sides, has some white hair on his back, as also a little mixed in his forehead, branded, as far as I can distinguish for the length of his hair, R, upon the near shoulder, and his mane hangs on both sides. Posted, and appraised to 10l. SAMUEL SHERWIN.
TAKEN up, in King William county, a brindled steer, marked with a crop, slit and underkeel in the right ear, and a slit and overkeel in the left. Posted, and appraised to 11. 15s. WILLIAM ALVEY.
TAKEN up, in Amherst county, a grey mare, branded on the near shoulder 1, and on the near buttock W; she is about 8 years old, 4 feet 7 or 8 inches high, has a hanging mane and switch tail. Posted, and appraised to 8l. JAMES LONDON.
PETERSBURG, May 29, 1770.
I INTEND for Great Britain soon. RICHARD SPENCER.
ALL persons indebted to me are desired to come and settle their accounts; and all persons that have any demands against me, are desired to bring in their accounts by the last day of July at furthest, as I intend to have all my affairs settled by that time. PAULING ANDERSON.
TAKEN up in Southampton county two COWS, one marked with a crop, slit, and half moon in the left ear, and a slit and half moon in the right; the other a crop and slit in the left ear, and a slit in the right. Posted, and appraised to 21. 10s. THOMAS BLUNT.
TAKEN up, in Albemarle , near Woodson's ford, a small bay horse, about 4 feet 4 inches high, docked, and branded on the near shoulder and buttock I, but very dull. Posted, and appraised to 5l. ELIAS WILLS.
TAKEN up, in Caroline county, a grey mare about 4 feet 5 or 6 inches high, and about 3 years old, neither docked nor branded. Posted, and appraised to 5l. WILLIAM WYAT.
TAKEN up, in Dinwiddie county, on Namozee creek, at John Ravencroft's plantation, nine sheep, all white, marked with a swallow fork in the right ear, and a nick under and over in the left. Posted, and appraised to 3l. 3s. JOHN OGLETREE.
TAKEN up, in Dinwiddie county, on George's Branch , a dark brown cow, with some white, marked with a swallow fork and a half moon over the right ear, and a half moon under the left. SAMUEL VAUGHAN.
TAKEN up, in Dinwiddie county, near the court-house, a light grey horse, about 4 feet 4 inches high, about 10 years old, with a thick mane and switch tail, branded on the near buttock A. Posted, and appraised to 4l. Also a bay horse, about 12 years old, and a long switch tail and short mane, branded on the near buttock X. Posted, and appraised to 21. 10s. JOHN GIBBS.
TAKEN up, in Buckingham county, on James river , last March , a bright bay mare, about 3 years old last spring, she is branded on the near shoulder A, not docked, and paces naturally. Posted and appraised to 21. 15s. WILLIAM HUGHES.
GEORGE the Third, by the grace of God, of Great-Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c. To the Sheriff of Fairfax , Greeting. We command you, that you summon Abraham Hargis , late of the county of Fairfax , to appear before our Justices of our county court of Fairfax , at Alexandria , on the third Monday in this month, to answer a bill in Chancery, exhibited against him by John Glasford , of Glasgow , merchant; and this he shall in no wise omit, under the penalty of 100l. And have then there this writ. Witness Peter Wagener , clerk of our said court, this first day of March , in the tenth year of our reign, 1770. 3 m P. WAGENER.
RUN away from the subscriber about the middle of May 1769, a young Virginia born Negro fellow named ESSEX ; he is a great rogue, and had a great variety of clothes with him, is about 21 years old; middle sized, very straight, talks fast, has large eyes, thick lips, and has several times had a swelling under his throat, which has frequently broke, the scars of which are plainly to be seen. He lurked about the falls of James river for several weeks, in company with two of Mr. Newman's Negroes; and I mistrust that he has, or will attempt, to get out of the colony, perhaps under the colour of being a freeman, as he is an arch sensible fellow. Whoever delivers him to me, in Buckingham county, shall have forty shillings reward; and if he has been carried out of the colony by any master of a vessel, 45l. will be paid, on proper proof being made, so as the offender may be come at. 6 ANTHONY WINSTON.
RUN away from the subscriber at Hobbs Hole , on the 5th inst. ( March ) a Negro fellow named HARRY , about 5 feet 7 inches high, well made, aged about 27 years, of a yellowish black, pretty sensible; he generally wore a green waistcoat and breeches, with horn buttons on them. It is very probable he is harboured at or about Todd's Bridge in King and Queen county, as he was born and lived there several years. Any person that delivers the said slave to me at Hobbs Hole in Essex county, shall receive fifty shillings reward, besides what the law allows. JOHN CORRIE.
N. B. All masters of vessels are forewarned employing or carrying said slave out of the colony.
WESTOVER, March 26, 1770.
RUN away from Westover on Sunday last, a very likely Negro man of the middle size, named EDOM , by trade a bricklayer, and is about 25 years old. 'Tis supposed he will go into King William county. I will give FORTY SHILLINGS to whoever delivers him to me at Westover , or to Mr. David Pattison , at the falls of James river . W. BYRD.