The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1775-09-09 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
With the FRESHEST ADVICES,
FOREIGN and DOMESTICK.
IN CIVITATE LIBERA LINGUAM MENTEMQUE
LIBERAS ESSE DEBERE. — Suet. in Tib. S. 28.
PRINTED by JOHN DIXON and
WM. HUNTER, at the Post Office.
ALL Persons may be supplied with this Paper at 12/6 a Year, and have Advertisements (of a moderate Length) inserted for 3/ the first Week, and 2/ each Week after. — Printing Work done at this Office in the neatest Manner, with Care and Expedition.
To the PRINTERS.
GENTLEMEN,
You will oblige many of your readers by inserting the following PASTORAL LETTER from the SYNOD of NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA, to the congregations under their care, delivered from the pulpits on the 20th of July last, being the day appointed by the Hon. Congress for a general fast.
A CUSTOMER.
VERY DEAR BRETHREN,
THE Synod of New York and Philadelphia, being met at a time when public affairs wear so threatening an aspect, and when (unless God in his sovereign providence speedily prevent it) all the horrors of a civil war throughout this great continent are to be apprehended, were of opinion, that they could not discharge their duty to the numerous congregations under their care, without addressing them at this important crisis.
As the firm belief, and habitual recollection of the power and presence of the living God, ought at all times to possess the minds of real Christians, so in seasons of public calamity, when the LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth, it would be an ignorance or indifference highly criminal not to look up to him with reverence, to implore his mercy by humble and fervent prayer, and, if possible, to prevent his vengeance by unfeigned repentance.
We do therefore, brethren, beseech you in the most earnest manner, to look beyond the immediate authors either of your sufferings or fears, and to acknowledge the holiness and justice of the Almighty in the present visitation. He is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works. Affliction springeth not out of the dust. He doth not afflict willingly, nor grieve the children of men; and therefore, it becomes every person, family, city and province, to humble themselves before his throne, to confess their sins, by which they have provoked his indignation, and entreat him to pour out upon all ranks a spirit of repentance and of prayer. Fly also for forgiveness to the atoning blood of the great REDEEMER, — the blood of sprinkling, which speaketh better things than that of Abel. Remember and confess not only your sins in general, but those prevalent national offences which may be justly considered as the procuring causes of public judgments; particularly prophaneness and contempt of God, his name, Sabbaths, and sanctuary; pride, luxury, uncleanness, and neglect of family religion and government, with the deplorable ignorance and security which certainly ought to be imputed to this as their principle cause. All these are, among us, highly aggravated by the inestimable privileges, which we have hitherto enjoyed without interruption since the first settlement of this country. If in the present day of distress we expect that GOD will hear our supplications, and interpose for our protection or deliverance, let us remember, what he himself requires of us, that our prayers should be attended with a sincere purpose, and thorough endeavour after personal and family reformation: If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hand towards him: If iniquity be in thine hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles, Job 13. 14.
The Synod cannot help thinking, that this is a proper time for pressing all of every rank, seriously to consider the things that belong to their eternal peace. Hostilities, long feared, have now taken place; the sword has been drawn in one province, and the whole continent, with hardly any exception, seem determined to defend their rights by force of arms. If, at the same time, the British Ministry shall continue to enforce their claims by violence, a lasting and bloody contest must be expected: Surely then it becomes those who have taken up arms, and profess a willingness to hazard their lives in the cause of liberty, to be prepared for death, which to many must be the certain, and to every one is a possible or probable event.
We have long seen with concern, the circumstances which occasioned, and the gradual increase of this unhappy difference. As Ministers of the gospel of peace, we have ardently wished that it could, and often hoped that it would have been more early accommodated. It is well known to you (otherwise it would be imprudent indeed thus publicly to profess) that we have not been instrumental in enflaming the minds of the people, or urging them to acts of violence and disorder: Perhaps no instance can be given on so interesting a subject, in which political sentiments have been so long and so fully kept from the pulpit, and even malice itself has not charged us with labouring from the press; but things are now come to such a state, that we do not wish to conceal our opinions as men and citizens, so the relation we stand in to you seemed to make the present improvement of it to your spiritual benefit and indispensable duty. Suffer us then to lay hold of your present temper of mind, and to exhort, especially the young and vigorous, by assuring them, that there is no soldier so undaunted as the pious man, no army so formidable as those who are superior to the fear of death. There is nothing more awful to think of, than that those whose trade is war should be despisers of the name of the LORD of Hosts, and that they should expose themselves to the imminent danger of being immediately sent from cursing and cruelty on earth, to the blaspheming, rage and despairing horror of the infernal pit. Let therefore, every one, who from generosity of spirit, or benevolence of heart, offers himself as a champion in his country's cause, be persuaded to reverence the name, and walk in the fear of the Prince of the Kings of the earth, and then he may, with the most unshaken firmness, expect the issue either in victory or death.
Let it not be forgotten, that though for the wise ends of his providence, it may please GOD, for a season, to suffer his people
to lie under unmerited oppression, yet in general we may expect, that those who fear and serve him in sincerity and truth, will be favoured with his countenance and strength. It is both the character and the privilege of the children of GOD, that they call upon him in the day of trouble, and he, who keepeth covenant and truth forever, has said, that his ears are always open to their cry. We need not mention to you in how many instances the event in battles, and success in war, have turned upon circumstances which were inconsiderable in themselves, as well as out of the power of human prudence to foresee or direct, because we suppose you firmly believe, that after all the counsels of men, and the most probable and promising means, the LORD will do that which seemeth him good; nor hath his promise ever failed of its full accomplishment; the LORD is with you while ye be with him, and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you. 2 Chron. xv. 2.
After this exhortation, which we thought ourselves called upon to give you at this time, on your great interest, the one thing needful, we shall take the liberty to offer a few advices to the societies under our charge, as to their public and general conduct; and
FIRST, In carrying on this important struggle, let every opportunity be taken to express your attachment and respect to our Sovereign King George, and to the revolution principles by which his august family was seated on the British Throne. We recommend, indeed, not only allegiance to him from duty and principle, as the first magistrate of the empire, but esteem and reverence for the person of the Prince, who has merited well of his subjects on many accounts, and who has probably been misled into the late and present measures by those about him; neither have we any doubt, that they themselves have been in a great degree deceived by false information from interested persons residing in America. It gives us the greatest pleasure to say, from our own certain knowledge of all belonging to our communion, and, from the best means of information, of the far greatest part of all denominations in this country, that the present opposition to the measures of Administration does not in the least arise from disaffection to the King, or a desire of separation from the parent state. We are happy in being able with truth to affirm, that no part of America would either have approved or permitted such insults as have been offered to the Sovereign in Great Britain. We exhort you, therefore, to continue in the same disposition and not to suffer oppression or injury itself easily to provoke you to any thing which may seem to betray contrary sentiments: Let it ever appear, that you only desire the preservation and security of those rights which belong to you as FREEMEN and BRITONS, and that reconciliation upon these terms is your most ardent desire.
SECONDLY. Be careful to maintain the union which at present subsists through all the colonies; nothing can be more manifest than that the success of every measure depends on it's being inviolably preserved, and therefore, we hope, that you will leave nothing undone which can promote that end. In particular as the Continental Congress, now sitting at Philadelphia, consists of Delegates chosen in the most free and unbiased manner, by the body of the people, let them not only be treated with respect, and encouraged in their difficult service; not only let your prayers be offered up to God for his direction in their proceedings, but adhere firmly to their resolutions; and let it be seen that they are able to bring out the whole strength of this vast country to carry them into execution. We would also advise for the same purpose, that a spirit of candour, charity, and mutual esteem, be preserved, and promoted towards those of different religious denominations. Persons of probity and principle, of every profession, should be united together as servants of the common cause, and the experience of our happy concord hitherto in the cause of liberty should engage all to unite in support of the common interest; for there is no example in history, in which civil liberty was destroyed, and the rights of conscience preserved entire.
THIRDLY. We do earnestly exhort and beseech the societies under our care to be strict and vigilant in their private government, and to watch over the morals of their several members. It is with the utmost pleasure we remind you, that the last Continental Congress determined to discourage luxury in living, public diversions, and gaming of all kinds, which have so fatal an influence on the morals of the people. If it is undeniable, that universal profligacy makes a nation ripe for divine judgments, and is the natural mean of bringing them to ruin, reformation of manners is of the utmost necessity in our present distress. At the same time, as it has been observed by many eminent writers, that the censorial power, which had for its object the manners of the public in the ancient free states, was absolutely necessary to their continuance, we cannot help being of opinion, that the only thing which we have now to supply the place of this is the religious discipline of the several sects with respect to their own members; so that the denomination or profession which shall take the most effectual care of the instruction of its members, and maintain it's discipline in the fullest vigour, will do the most essential service to the whole body. For the very same reason the greatest service which magistrates or persons in authority can do with respect to the religion or morals of the people, is to defend and secure the rights of conscience in the most equal and impartial manner.
FOURTHLY. We cannot but recommend, and urge in the warmest manner, a regard to order and the public peace; and as in many places, during the confusions that prevail, legal proceedings have become difficult, it is hoped, that all persons will conscientiously pay their just debts, and to the utmost of their power serve one another, so that the evils inseparable from a civil war may not be augmented by wantonness and irregularity.
FIFTHLY. We think it of importance, at this time, to recommend to all of every rank, but especially to those who may be called to action, a spirit of humanity and mercy. Every battle of the warrior is with confused noise and garments rolled in blood. It is impossible to appeal to the sword without being exposed to
many scenes of cruelty and slaughter; but it is often observed, that civil wars are carried on with a rancour and spirit of revenge much greater than those between independent states. The injuries received or supposed in civil wars wound more deeply than those of foreign enemies; it is therefore the more necessary to guard against this abuse, and recommend that meekness and gentleness of spirit, which is the noblest attendant on true valour. That man will fight most bravely, who never fights till it is necessary, and who ceases to fight, as soon as the necessity is over.
LASTLY. We would recommend to all the societies under our care not to content themselves with attending devoutly on general fasts, but to continue habitually in the exercise of prayer, and to have frequent occasional voluntary meetings for solemn intercession with GOD on the important trial. Those who are immediately exposed to danger need your sympathy; and we learn from the scriptures, that fervency and importunity are the very characters of that prayer of the righteous man which availeth much.
We conclude with our most earnest prayer, that the GOD of Heaven may bless you in your temporal and spiritual concerns, and that the present unnatural dispute may be speedily terminated by an equitable and lasting settlement on constitutional principles.
Signed in the name, presence, and by appointment of the Synod. BENJAMIN HAIT, MODERATOR. NEW YORK, May 12, 1775.
Messrs. DIXON & HUNTER.
GENTLEMEN,
Whilst every thing which comes under the denomination of Scotch is held in the utmost abhorrence, and the unhappy North Britons are treated with private insult, and public abuse, do you assert the LIBERTY of the PRESS, and the rights of human nature, in publishing the following, though under the signature of "a Scotchman."
IT was an old observation, that the human species are, in the eye of their Creator, considered as a single republic, and that the different nations which inhabit this globe are by him regarded as so many tribes of one grand community.
To suppose that the all-wise Being, who doeth no wrong, should entail on a set of men, because born on a particular spot of earth, a certain set of principles, is a supposition fraught with bigotry and impiety; as to suppose, that a Scotchman is not by his birthright entitled to all the privileges of a rational being, is a supposition marked with the strongest absurdity.
I commonly imagine that any person is so foolish as to maintain arguments avowedly in his conversation, though I am firmly of opinion, that the treatment bestowed on my unhappy countrymen, by people in general, seems strongly to point out, that there are too many who look upon a Scotchman in a light somewhat inferior to that of a human creature.
Yet I believe the generous spirit looks upon the Scotch with a favourable eye; he considers the prejudice which every man feels in favour of his native country, and that the illiberal abuse thrown out against their must naturally make them think meanly of it's authors; he sees them reduced almost to the cruel necessity of taking up arms against their fathers, brothers, and nearest connections, or of falling a sacrifice to the blind and unmeasurable fury of the mob; and his heart bleeds for them. The insults offered to all, and the brutalities exercised upon some of them, perhaps on pretence of a few unguarded expressions extorted in the heat of passion, he considers as a disgrace to the cause of liberty, the noblest of causes: And to insult a few helpless individuals, who dare not even express their resentment, he knows is to proclaim aloud tyranny and oppression.
The author knows there are some who think in this manner, and who consider every creature, stamped with the image of his Maker, as entitled to the rights of humanity: He hopes there are many; and notwithstanding the obloquy which may attend the title in this corner of the globe, is proud of subscribing himself A SCOTCHMAN.
LONDON, June 9.
A FEW days ago Lord Mansfield, Mr. Jenkinson, and Governor Hutchinson, dined together at Lord Suffolk's. In all ties of consultation on American affairs, Governor Hutchinson has constantly been one. Before the Generals went to America, he was frequently consulted by them, dined with them, &c. &c. Mr. Cornwall, who acts as master of the ceremonies, introduces him; and Mr. Jenkinson, who has long been the secret, and is now almost the ostensible Premier, patronizes him. It is said Governor Hutchinson has a pension of 2000l. per annum. Is it to be wondered at? But it is surprising that the piety of Lord Dartmouth will permit him to avow a share in measures, in which it is notorious he has no share, except being the mere executor of Jack Ketch of them. The plans all originate, and are finished elsewhere, before he sees them. Yet this pious Lord, and Lord Sandwich, and Lord Suffolk, affect great importance, assume great pomp, in being allowed to see an act of Parliament before it has received the royal assent. Like the moon, if they shine, it is by borrowed light.
It is worth observing that the late immortal Beckford, and the present Earl of Effingham's mother were own brother and sister. June 12. By the last accounts from French Flanders, we learn that the troops stationed on the confines of Old France, instead of marching against the rioters, are ordered to the frontiers, in consequence of which, all the garrisons next the northern frontier of the Austrian low countries, and those on and in the neighbourhood of the channel, opposite to England, will be doubled.
Letters from Brest mention, that three men of war, which had failed from that port for the West Indies, had been driven back in a hard gale of wind, and two of them were wrecked on the coast of Brittany, the crews of which perished.

We are informed that six ships of the line, three frigates and two bomb vessels, are, for the future, to be kept in constant readiness, to sail at a moment's warning to any part of the globe, as occasion may require.
We are informed, that four vessels, containing about 700 emigrants, have failed for America, from Port Glasgow and Greenock, in the course of the last and preceding week. Most of these emigrants are from the North Highlands; and it is said, two vessels are failed for that country, in order to carry over more.
It is said that yesterday a person in high office attempted to put an end to his life, but was happily prevented by a relation.
Yesterday six sail of ships from Bremen and Danzick arrived in the river, laden with wheat and other grain.
June 14. A writer in the St. James's Evening, of last night, who signs A WANDERER, says he thinks it right to lay before the public the real object of the pursuit of the Spaniards, as well as the particular number of ships, troops &c. to be employed upon their present expedition, and that the public may depend upon it that what he writes is strictly true. They have now actually twelve capital ships, fourteen frigates, nine xebecs, four bomb ketches, and 25,000 horse and foot, ready to sail at Carthagena, and are bound to a bay called Arzu, which lies between Oran and the town of Algiers. [Arzu is a port from whence the French and Spaniards are frequently supplied with corn. The ships anchor in the bay, and the Moors come down and pitch their tents on the sea beach, during their stay, for there are no houses on the spot.] At this bay they are to disembark, while the fleet is to appear before them on the sea; and there is no doubt but their arms will be successful, the whole being under the command of General O'Reily, who is an active, able, and a brave officer. The town being taken and demolished, they will proceed to Oran, a place they have long been in possession of, and maintained at a prodigious expence, and which they will destroy and abandon, and then build a small fortification at the bay or port of Arzu, which will at all times afford them an easy passage into the Algerine territories. So that should the Moors attempt rebuilding of the town they must be defeated. The Europeans are so little acquainted with the bay of Arzu, that it is scarce pointed out in the maps of the Mediterranean coasts; but, however, it is a tolerable harbour, where shipping have, and may lie with great safety. The Spaniards carry with them, on this occasion, stones, bricks, carpenters, masons, and, in short, every thing necessary to hold as well as take; and as I am, says he, one of those people who envy the work men upon earth the finest country God has created, I wish the Spaniards all imaginable success.
June 15. Robert Timson, Esq., is appointed to the command of a company in General Gage's regiment of foot.
Monday and yesterday several vessels were taken up in the river on Government contract to carry troops to America.
Yesterday a commission passed the great seal giving full power and authority to John Martin, Esq.; his Majesty's Captain General and commander in Chief of the province of North Carolina, or to the Governor for the time being (after reciting that Herman Husband, and divers others, had raised a rebellion, and levied war against his Majesty, in that province, which hath been suppressed) to pardon, release, and forgive all treasons, felonies, and other crimes by them, or any of them, committed, the said Herman Husband alone excepted.
Yesterday a grand board of treasury was held, after the breaking up of which Lord North attended the Council at St. James's; an express was immediately afterwards sent off to General Gage from Lord Dartmouth's Office.
Extract of a letter from PORTSMOUTH, June 16. "Yesterday morning an express arrived here from the Admiralty, with orders for the following six ships of the line to be got ready with the greatest expedition, viz. The Neptune, of 90 guns; Superb, 74; Firm, 64; Essex, 64; and Windsor and America of 60 guns. The destination of the above ships is kept a profound secret."
We hear that General Gage has sent home for more light ordnance and stores, in consequence of which the necessary orders have been given. A transport failed about three weeks or a month since with some of the above from the Tower, for the use of the troops in America.
Extracts of a letter from PORTSMOUTH, June 18. "This morning Sir Peter Parker hoisted his broad pendant on board his Majesty's ship Royal Oak, which is to be joined by the Worcester and Exeter of 64 guns each; and the Egmont of 74 guns is ordered in the room of the Kent, who got on shore coming from Plymouth, and proves leaky. It is expected they will sail on their cruise the beginning of the week."
Orders are given for all the artificers in the dock yards to work double tides, to fit out the men of war wanted for immediate service.
Extract of a letter from DUBLIN, June 12. "The Post Assembly which is to be held to morrow, for the purpose of considering an address to the King, in behalf of our oppressed American brethren, is likely to be the fullest ever known."
June 20. The master General of the ordnance has given orders for several tons of ordnance stores to be shipped off as soon as possible for the use of the forces in America.
A Journeyman tailor of Braintree, in Essex, who over a pot of beer had often bewailed the misfortunes of his country, cursed the Minister, and, like a true patriot, got drunk with his last sixpence; the moment he heard the Americans had defeated the King's troops, jumped from the board, and after hailing the glorious Goddess of liberty to waft him to the pine-crowned mountains of New England, desired his master would pay him his day's wages; adding, "I will no longer live in this d---d land of slavery, and be clipped to death by the sheers of ministerial oppression; they shall never cabbage me of my liberty, while I can wield a bare bodkin; no, I have a brother in Boston, and by G---d I will go and fight for him."
The late Duke of Newcastle scrupled not to acknowledge Colonel Washington and Major Rogers "two of the bravest and most experienced officers in the King's service." The Colonel is now in his own service; and if he could fight so courageously for his King, there is no doubt of his displaying a redoubled valour for himself.
Lord Effingham was a volunteer against the Turks, and has been a constant protector against the tyrannical measures now carrying on by Bute and his infernal adherents, therefore there can be no doubt but his Lordship's declining so infamous a business proceeds from such motives as do honour to a soldier and a patriot.
The report of the death of Miss Catley, the celebrated singer, caused a very humorous debate at a house near Covent Garden, among some Hibernians, some contending that it was, and some that it was not true; at last it was ingeniously proved by one the report was premature as follows: "Pon my soul you are a pack of fools, to boggle about this thing so long; Nan is engaged at Covent Garden to sing next season, and devil burn me, if she is not a girl of more honour than to break her engagement."
During the late dispute about halfpence a man said to his wife, "Lord! we shall be ruined; we shall lose all our halfpence." "Not at all, said she, we have but nine penyworth, which we will immediately spend in gin." They did so, and settled the account.
Great pains are taken to inspire the good people of this country with apprehensions of Spanish armaments and Spanish invasions. With what truth these reports are spread about, and with what intention, will soon appear. In the mean time we have the solemn declarations of the Secretary of State immediately concerned, who joins a thorough personal knowledge of the affairs of that country to all the intelligence of office, that there neither is nor can be any cause of fear from that quarter. We have the engagement of the most able Minister this country has produced in the marine
department, not only for the defence of our coasts but for the maintenance of the honour of our flag. And for what is said of Ireland being left defenceless, being drained of troops by the American embarkations, it is well known that she has at this time the full complement of men allowed by the constitution to be kept up within that kingdom. So well founded are the clamours of these people, who magnify every little incident to create an alarm, and put the nation to an expence, and when they have done, their next step is to cry out against the Ministry for the expences they themselves have occasioned.
The following uncommon wager was made on Thursday last between two labourers in Lincoln's inn-fields, an Englishman and an Irishman. The subject turned on bodily strength; Paddy proposed to lay the Englishman a pot of beer, that he did not carry him in his hold to the top of the house they were repairing. The latter accepted of the bet: The Irishman therefore got into the machine, was carried up by the other, and when at the top, was thrown out upon the leads. On their further discussing the matter when they gained the ground, Paddy observed, "That by the living God, he had like to have won; for just as he got to the two pair of stairs window, his carrier began to totter and shake so much, that bad luck to him, if he had not like to have dropped him."
A correspondent has favoured us with the following authentic copy of the letter, written and delivered some time since to a Great Personage, by a Gentlewoman, one of the people called Quakers, who, he assures us, is as respectable a character in private life, as that, or any other persuasion among us, can any where produce. As the letter is submitted without any alterations, the candid reader will excuse the singularity of an address, very different from the usual forms, even though he meets with unaffected loyalty, in lieu of mere profession; sincerity, in the room of pretension; simplicity; of elegance; and truth, of servile adulation:
DUTY to (God and) the King impels me to address him in such language, as Divine Wisdom shall see meet to inspire; and let it not seem a strange thing to thee, O King, that a faithful subject should be impressed with a deep and inward travail of spirit for thy prosperity with that of thy amiable consort, and your royal offspring, on whose account my knee hath bowed at the throne of Grace, and my heart and mouth been filled with this pathetic prayer, "Give the King thy judgments, O Lord, and thy righteousness to the King's son." And I have been secretly favoured with a belief, that this petition hath been accepted of him who inspired it, for he is known to the truly dependent, upon him, to be a God hearing prayer, and answering in his own time, that which proceeds from the lively, sensible operation of his holy spirit. It was this that qualified the faithful Prophets plainly and advertently to address great and powerful Kings, and disclose the mind of the Lord respecting them, and the kingdoms which in the course of his providence they were permitted to govern; and it is evident from the sacred records, that those Kings who feared God, and hearkened to his messengers, he never failed to bless and prosper. And suffer me, O King, to inform thee of the deep exercise I have suffered for a considerable time, from a view which I have cause to believe was given me by the holy spirit, of the alarming tendency of the commotions which unhappily prevail in some part of thy dominions, which, if not timely and wisely suppressed, will, I greatly fear, involve this nation in almost irreparable grievances and troubles, which I heartily wish may be rightly and timely apprehended by those in authority under thee, and prudently avoided. It does not seem to be my concern, to enumerate the many disadvantages this nation must inevitably sustain, if things should be carried to extremities; what is of the greatest weight with me, is the dreadful consequences that may attend, should the sword be once unsheathed; for who can precisely determine, where, when, or in what it may end; the painful view given me of these important things, has for some weeks past exceedingly affected me; most gladly would I have divested myself of the distress it brought, and sheltered myself under an apprehension of my inability to engage in things of so high a nature, but Infinite Wisdom will work by such instruments as he sees meet, and his powerful word has been as a fire within me, so that I dare not any longer keep silence, but in humble and awful fear and obedience offer these weighty things, O King, to thy serious consideration, imploring Divine Goodness to give thee a due sense of them, and endue thee with wisdom and resolution to act for thy own and thy subjects good, and the preservation of peace and tranquillity throughout thy extensive dominions. And wherein some of thy American subjects may be thought blame-worthy, suffer me, O King, to entreat thee to deal with them as a tender father and compassionate Sovereign; chastise them, but not with scorpions; rebuke them, but not in anger; so that thou prevent the effusion of blood, the rending of a potent empire, and by lenient measures win and secure to thyself their obedience, loyalty, and affection. May God Almighty bless, prosper, and direct thee, is the fervent prayer of thy faithful friend and loyal subject, F. D.
PORTSMOUTH, June 5. Last night the Russian Admiral saluted Sir James Douglas with 15 guns, he having received directions from the Russian Ambassador to pay that compliment to the English flag, which he omitted to do on their arrival at Spithead. His salute was returned by 13 guns.
CHARLESTOWN (S. Carolina) July 28.
Extract of a letter from an eminent hostler in LONDON, dated June 1, 1775.
IT is a matter of great concern to almost every person here, to be at variance with our colonies, which is a great discouragement to our manufactures. But Government seem determined to persist, notwithstanding all the petitions, remonstrances, &c. that can be presented. In our Branch, we have been obliged to discharge a number of workmen, and yet we have great quantities of goods on our hands. I sincerely join with our brethren on your side the water, in deploping the unhappy contest. In the course of an examination I had the honour of undergoing before the House of Commons, relative to the present state of our manufacture, I informed them how much it would be affected by the cessation of the American commerce, but all in vain.
CAMBRIDGE, August 10.
LAST Saturday a flag was sent out to the lines at Roxbury by General Gage, for the important service of bearing the following insignificant letter, which as it contains news of great consequence, it is thought expedient to give it to the public; and as many at this day are apt to dispute the authenticity of any material intelligence, as a full conviction to all such unbelievers the author's name is affixed.
"DEAR CHILD, Saturday August 5, 1775. "I hoped to have heard from you by the Gentlemen from Nantucket, Mr. Boylston's Captains. I have been very ill for three weeks, fever and flux; am growing better. My regard to the good family wherein you dwell, the grape vines bear in abundance, ditto peach and pear trees, that by Dr. Caner's that never bore before, hath three on it, which I do every thing I can to preserve in order to know what pear it is, apricots the finest I ever saw, I wish I could send Mrs. Fitch a full third of each. Mr. Fitch and you another third, and the rest for myself and friends; but wishes are all vain. I hear the port of Boston is quite open, and the customhouse to be kept here as usual; a ship brought in yesterday 2200 barrels of flour, Mr. Cotton and eldest son are dead son are dead of the flux, Parson Wiswall's wife and daughter dead with the same distemper. A. Vincent's wife was buried last night; that a great favour, because she hath been dead on one side and bedrid for 12 months last past, your sister and children my kind regards to, the good family you are so happy to be in, the two
Mr. Collins, tell them I want to see them at Boston, the two Colman's, Obed Hussey, Capt. Folger's father, my Nantucket friends. Yours, W. BRATTLE.
P. S. And fine rabbits all killed and eat by the rats, heavy loss and disappointment."
Last Sabbath the enemy set fire to the house at Penny ferry, Malden Side, which was consumed. This building was commanded by their cannon on Bunker's hill.
Since Monday morning last eight companies of rifle-men, consisting of about 200 men each, from Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, have arrived here. Four more are daily expected. They are an excellent body of troops, and appear, to a man, heartily disposed to prosecute, with the utmost resolution and vigour, the noble cause in which they are engaged.
NEW LONDON, August 11. We hear from Westmoreland, in the western part of this colony, that last Thursday se'nnight about 50 Indians of the Six Nations came to that place, and encamped at a small distance from the settlement; the next day they came in and delivered a message, which was to this purpose: That they were sorry to hear of the difference which subsisted between Great Britain and the colonies; that they should not take up the hatchet on either side; that they meant to be at peace with the English as long as the stream ran down the Susquehannah river; That, should difference in future arise between us and them, they would try every gentle and healing measure to obtain redress of the grievance; that as Col. Guy Johnson had left his habitation, and they were destitute of a superintendent, they desired Col. Butler to take upon him that trust; and the place for holding their future Congresses might be Westmoreland.
PHILADELPHIA, August 16.
A LETTER from Cambridge of the 7th instant, says, "While I was at Roxbury, a flag came out of Boston to inquire the fate of a Lieutenant who has been missing since the skirmish on Sunday night; it is supposed he is killed, and fell into a ditch, as he cannot be found. Hamilton and Parsons of the mercenaries are among the slain of the same evening. Yesterday Capt. Morgan arrived here from Virginia, with his company of rifle-men; but they are grown so terrible to the mercenaries, that nothing is to be seen over their breadworks but a hat. General Gage has built thirteen boats, which will carry 60 men each, and they have, for several days, been practising the men to row them about in Boston harbour, from which we may suppose, some party is to be made by water. Our camp continues very healthy, and we have great plenty. It is reported some of Gage's sheep-stealers have returned with tolerable success. General Gage is preparing fuel for the winter, which is scarce. The inhabitants of Boston are coming out every day, who are scattered through the country in a very distressed condition, but you hear very little complaint. We have various reports of success to the eastward, but they are without foundation. The Indian Chief of the Chagnawagas left us a few days ago, well pleased with his journey."
By the above we fear there is no truth in the report of our people having taken five of Gage's ships.
A letter of the 5th instant from the camp, says, "the enemy's army are 60 men worse in killed and taken this week."
Extract of a letter from FREDERICKTOWN, August 1.
"Notwithstanding the urgency of my business, I have been detained three days in this place by an occurrence truly agreeable. I have had the happiness of seeing Capt. Michael Cressap, marching at the head of a formidable company, of upward of 130 men from the Mountains, and back woods, painted like Indians, armed with tomahawks and rifles, dressed in hunting shirts and mackalons; and though some of them had travelled near 800 miles from the banks of the Ohio, they seemed to walk light and easy, and not with less spirit than in the first hour of their march. Health and vigour, after what they had undergone, declared them to be intimate with hardship, and familiar with danger. Joy and satisfaction were visible in the crowd that met them. Had Lord North been present, and assured that the brave leader could raise Thousands of such like to defend his country, what think you, would not the hatchet and the block have intruded upon his mind? I had an opportunity of attending the Captain during his stay in town, and watched the behaviour of his men, and the manner in which he treated them; for it seems that all those who got out to war under him, do not only pay the most willing obedience to him as their commander, but in every instance of distress look up to him as a friend or a father. A great part of his time was spent in listening to and relieving their wants without any apparent sense of fatigue and trouble; when complaints were before him he determined with kindness and spirit, and on every occasion condescended to please without losing his dignity."
"Yesterday the company were supplied with a small quantity of powder from the magazine, which wanted airing, and was not in good order for rifles; in the evening, however, they were drawn out, to shew the Gentlemen of the town their dexterity in shooting, a clapboard with a mark the size of dollar, was put up; they began to fire off hand, and the bystanders were surprised, few shot being made that were not close to or in the paper; when they had shot for a time in this way, some lay on their back, some on their breast or side, others ran 20 or 30 steps and firing, appeared to be equally certain of their mark. With this performance the company were more than satisfied, when a young man took up the board in his hand, not by the end but the side, and holding it up, his brother walked to the distance and very coolly shot in the white; laying down his rifle, he took the board, and holding it as it was held before, the second brother shot as the former had done. By this exercise I was more astonished than pleased. But will you believe me when I tell you that one of the men took the board and placing it between his legs, stood with his back to the tree, while another drove the centre. What would a regular army, of considerable strength in the forest of America do with 1000 of these men, who want nothing to preserve their health and courage but water from the spring, with a little parched corn, and what they can easily procure in hunting; and who, wrapped in their blankets in the damp of night, would choose the shade of a tree for their covering, and the earth for their bed."
Circumstances of intelligence, proving the excellence of the soil and climate of Virginia, which, to the astonishment of those who came from the best parts of Europe, have been, by many, thought to be bad.
OF 184 plants of oranges, citrons, lemons, &c. put into boxes in Italy, in the month of October, landed in Virginia in June last (when of course they would have but small remains of life) and set in the earth in Albemarle about the latter end of the same month, there are now an hundred and thirty odd which have put out new and luxuriant shoots. Two thirds of the vines which were planted under the same disadvantages have likewise put out new shoots. The olive plants are all living.
The vines planted by Mr. Bolling in the county of Buckingham, although managed according to the directions of the French writers of the 48th and 49th degrees of latitude, are in a condition to yield wine the ensuing year, if well attended to. The slips planted by that Gentleman the last year, after the method of the vignerons of Europe inhabiting a climate similar to our own, have now the appearance of vines 3 or 4 years old. A slip planted by him in the spring of the present year has produced two bunches of grapes; a fact which would not be believed in the wine countries of the old world.
Two kinds of wild grapes have been discovered, of the most promising quality for making good wine when they shall be improved by cultivation, and doubtless more may be discovered.
The olive trees planted in Albemarle, under the Blue Ridge of mountains, about two months before the remarkable frost of the

of May 1774, are now in a more thriving condition than it is thought they would have been under the like circumstance in any of the oil countries of Europe.
This country is certainly calculated to produce, in perfection, every thing of the growth of the temperate zones; and may, by industry, be rendered abundant, happy, and rich, if its inhabitants can be persuaded to get the better of their diffidence of its climate as to things which it will most readily yield.
NEW YORK, August 28.
We hear a number of officers Ladies, have lately arrived at Bolton, from England, Ireland, &c. and on their landing they were to a woman, widows.
We hear that General Gage's Lady and family, with a number of other people have failed from Bolton for England.
Wednesday the second division of the New York battalion, commanded by Major Zedwitz, failed for Albany, to join the former division, under General Schuyler's command at Ticonderoga.
We hear from St. Croix, that an hurricane had happened in the West Indies, which occasioned many vessels from that and the neighbouring ports, to put to sea.
The Provincial Congress having resolved that the cannon should be removed from the battery, a number of the citizens collected for that purpose last Wednesday evening; and part of the provincial artillery, under the command of Capt. John Lamb, were posted on the battery, to prevent the landing of any party from the Asia man of war, to annoy them while at work. When they marched down, which was about eleven o'clock, they observed one of the above ship's barges lying at some distance from the shore, where she continued upwards of an hour; then she got under sail, and fired a musket at the men that were posted on the battery. This was immediately returned by a smart fire of musketry from the artillery, and a few of the independent light infantry belonging to Col. Lasher's battalion, that were likewise posted there for the above purpose. Soon after this the Asia fired three cannon, when our drums beat to arms, which alarmed the inhabitants; when they had assembled she began a heavy and smart fire, of nine, eighteen, and twenty four pounders, and some grape shot; succeeded by a discharge of musketry from the marines. But without doing any other mischief than damaging the upper part of several houses near the fort, and White Hall, and wounding three men. Notwithstanding the fire from the Asia, the citizens effected their purpose, and carried off 21 pieces of cannon, being all that were mounted on carriages. Since this disturbance the women and children have been continually moving out of town, with their most valuable effects.
In consequence of the above procedure his Worship the Mayor received the 4 following letters from Capt. Vandeput, which were answered.
ASIA, August 24, 1775. After the event of last night, I think it necessary to inform you, that having Information that it was intended by some people in New York to take away the guns from the battery, which, as stores belonging to the King, it was my duty to protect. I sent a boat to lie near the shore, to watch their motions; soon after twelve they began to move the guns from the battery, which being observed by the officer in the boat, he left his station to come on board to inform me thereof, but being perceived from the shore, he was fired upon by a great many musketry, by which one of the men in the boat was shot dead. My duty called upon me to repel an attack of this sort, as well as to defend the guns, which occasioned me to fire upon the battery. I acquaint you with this that the people of the town may not imagine it is my intention to do them any hurt, which I wish as much as possible to avoid; but if they will persist in behaving in such a manner as to make their safety and my duty incompatible, the mischiefs that may arise must lie at their doors, and not mine. I am, &c. An answer is desired. G. VANDEPUT.
To the Mayor and Magistrates of New York.
Gentlemen, ASIA, August 24, 1775. Whereas a boat belonging to his Majesty's ship Asia (under my command) was between 12 and 1 o'clock this morning, fired upon by a number of people from the walls of the city; by which firing one man in the said boat was shot dead. And whereas his Majesty's cannon mounted upon the walls were about that time, and afterwards, taken off from thence; the perpetrators of which are guilty of the crimes expressed in the statutes for such offences; this is to require, at the hands of the magistrates, due satisfaction for these high misdemeanors; as I must otherwise look upon these acts, not as acts of rioters, but as done by the whole community. I wrote a letter to you this morning, to which I have not received any answer; I must therefore inform you, that if you do not think proper to send some answer to this, as soon as may reasonably be expected, I shall look upon your silence as a negative to my requisition, and shall take such measures as may seem necessary to me accordingly. I am, &c. To the Mayor and principal Magistrates. G. VANDEPUT.
Sir, ASIA, N. River, Aug. 25, 1775.
I received a letter from you last night, in which you said that you would this morning send me an explicit answer to my former letters. As you certainly have had sufficient time to make every necessary inquiry, I am to desire you will send me your answer upon the receipt of this.
I am, Sir, your very humble Servant, G. VANDEPUT.
To W. Hicks, Esq;
Sir, ASIA, N. River, Aug. 25, 1775.
I have just now received yours; in return to which I am to acquaint you that the musket fired from our boat, was fired as a signal towards the ship, and not at the battery, as the people in the boat will likewise make their affidavits of. You say you are at a loss to account how my duty could oblige me to fire upon the city, in defence of those guns, in the seat of civil government; and you add, that you can neither account for my inducement, half an hour after the return of the boats and the removal of the cannon, for firing a broadside at the city at large. You surely cannot doubt it's being my duty to defend every part of the King's forces, wherever they may be: For this purpose I fired upon the battery, as the only means to prevent the intentions of the people employed in removing the guns. For a considerable time I thought they had desisted from their purpose, till their huzzaing and their firing from the walls upon the ship, convinced me to the contrary; this occasioned the broadside to be fired, not at the city at large, but as the most effectual method to prevent their persisting in their pursuit, which it were impossible I could tell they had effected. I have no more to add, but that I shall persist in doing what I know to be my duty: In the doing which I shall, if possible, avoid doing hurt to any one.
I am, Sir, your humble servant, G. VANDEPUT.
To W. Hicks, Esq;
WILLIAMSBURG, September 9.
THE northern papers, which came to hand yesterday, contain nothing of importance from Boston, other than Gage's having blown up castle William. A fleet of war called the Falcon, Capt. Linzee, on the 13th ult. cannonaded the town of Gloucester, at Cape Anne, and sent two armed tenders to attack the inhabitants wherever they should find them, which were taken after a smart engagement, with the loss of one man on the side of the besieged. Linzee made off next day, with only half his men; thirty five were made prisoners, and sent to the camp, one killed, and several wounded.
The Captain of the Asia man of war at New York has threatened to entirely demolish the town, unless the cannon taken from the battery are returned.
The shocking accounts of damage done by the rains last week are numerous: Most of the mill-dams are broke, the corn laid almost level with the ground, and fodder destroyed; many ships and other vessels drove ashore and damaged, at Norfolk, Hampton, and York.
In the heavy storm of wind and rain, which came on last Saturday, and continued most part of the night, the Mercury man of war was drove from her station abreast of the town of Norfolk, and stuck fast aground in shoal water; it is thought she will not be got off without a great deal of trouble. The Otter's tender went ashore in the night, near Hampton; a number of the inhabitants boarded her next day, secured the rigging, guns, &c. and then burnt the vessel. Six of the tender's men were made prisoners, but have since been released in consequence of some threats from the Governor.
Yesterday morning John Randolph, Esq; his Majesty's Attorney General for this colony, with his Lady and daughters, set out from this city, for Norfolk, to embark for Great Britain.
General Washington has been pleased to appoint Edmund Randolph, Esq; one of his Excellency's aids de camp.
Extract of an Ordinance of the Convention for providing arms and ammunition for the use of the colony.
And for the greater encouragement of persons to make saltpetre and sulphur, Be it further ordained, that the sum of 3s. for every pound of good saltpetre, and the sum of 1s. per pound for any quantity not exceeding 20,000lb. neat weight of good sulphur, which shall be manufactured and refined of materials of the natural produce of this colony, and delivered to any committee of a county or corporation, on or before the first day of October 1776, for the use of the public, shall be paid to the proprietor thereof by the Treasurer aforesaid, upon a certificate from the Chairman of the said committees respectively.
On Monday last the detachment of volunteers from Spotsylvania county, under the command of Capt. Beverley Winlow, arrived in the Grove, and beg leave to take this public method of returning their warmest thanks to the Rev. Archibald Dick and Mr. John Crawley, for their very kind and benevolent treatment to them on their march down.
Gentlemen, I am exceedingly sorry that I am compelled by the officers of the volunteer companies to transmit you a copy of the paragraph, inserted in my paper this week, relative to Mr. Hardcastle. I leave it to yourselves whether you will comply with this requisition or not, and am, Gentlemen, Your most obedient,
Sept. 8, 1775. JOHN PINKNEY. Messrs. Dixon & Hunter.
In consequence of a report last Tuesday morning that a certain Joshua Hardcastle, of this city, had the preceding evening been guilty of uttering expressions highly degrading the good people who compose the several companies now in this place; and moreover, that he had frequently spoke of the cause of America in a most disgraceful and menacing manner; the volunteers, exasperated at this insulting behaviour, and thinking themselves bound, by the ties of honour and love of country, to enquire into the nature of the offence, accordingly waited upon the said Hardcastle, and conducted him to the Grove (the habitation of the soldiers) where the officers and men were immediately drawn up. They then proceeded to his trial, and after a candid, mature, and deliberate examination of the witnesses, found him guilty of the facts laid to his charge. One of the principal officers then made the following propositions: Whether the said Hardcastle should be complimented with a coat of thickset; whether he should be drummed through the city; or whether he should make public concessions. The officers then divided, when ten were for DRUMMING, and a like number for CONCESSIONS. However, they at last agreed that he should only ask pardon of all the officers and soldiers present, and give his promise that he never would be guilty of a like offence, and also be published in the Virginia gazettes, as a warning to those who may hereafter sport with the great and glorious cause of America.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
WILLIAMSBURG, Sept. 9, 1775.
I intend to leave the Colony soon. JOSHUA HARDCASTLE.
URBANNA, August 26, 1775.
THE Subscriber intending to leave the Colony for a few Months, desires all those indebted to the Estate of David Ker, Esq; late of Middlesex County, deceased, or to Dr. George Johnson, late of Gloucester County, to pay their respective balances to Mr. William Graham of King and Queen County, who is properly authorised to receive the same; and all who have Claims against the said Estate are requested to apply to him for Payment. JAMES GREGORIE.
TO BE SOLD,
At Mr. MILES TAYLOR'S, in the Town of RICHMOND, THE FOLLOWING
GARDEN and other SEEDS,
Lately imported from ITALY, viz.
  Brown Coleworts Early Mazzochi do. White Cucumbers.   Rom. purple do. Late ditto. Naples Water-melon.   Roman small Broccoli Parfley. Pistoia ditto.   Lafagnino Cabbage. Roman ditto. Early Musk-melon.   Verzotto do. Spinage. Orange ditto.   Crocino Coleworts. Asparagus. Cantaloupe do.   Early Broccoli. Sweet Basil. Early Pumpkins.   Green ditto. Citron ditto. Celery.   White loaf ditto. Leeks. Long ditto.   Zolfino ditto. Round Radish. Lupini.   Colliflower from Malta Long ditto. Turkey Snap Beans.   Orange Lettuce. French ditto. Early Charlton Pease.   Roman ditto. Ramolacci ditto. Ormond Hotspur do.   Curled ditto. Cress. Large Marrowfat do.   Dutch ditto. Chervil. Dwarf do. do.   Winter ditto. Poppy. Ledman's Dwarf do.   Italian Loaf early do. Beet. Winter ditto.   Imperial ditto. Red Beet. Saffron.   Endive. Sweet Fennil. Four Kinds of Wheat   Curled ditto. Green Cucumbers. Three do. Horse Beans 
To be SOLD,
On TUESDAY 31st of OCTOBER next, if fair, if not the next fair day, on the Premises,
A TRACT of LAND lying in King and Queen county, near Tod's Bridge, containing about 1400 Acres, altogether or in Parcels, belonging to the Estate of Col. Humphrey Hill, deceased; also, all the STOCKS of HORSES, CATTLE, SHEEP, and HOGS, with the PLANTATION UTENSILS, &c. Credit will be given till the 25th April 1777, giving Bond and Security to the Executors. The Bonds to carry Interest from the Date if not paid when due. Any Person may view the Land by applying to Edmund Taylor, the Overseer.
JOHN HILL, EDWARD HILL, WILLIAM HILL, } Executors.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, a BAY MARE, about 4 Feet 3 or 4 Inches high, remarkably well made, has a Blaze Face, three white Feet, a roached Mane, and landed on the off Buttock thus, 2 paces, trots, and gallops, but goes very wide behind when pacing. I will give 20s. Reward to any Person that will contrive the said Mare to Mr. Walter Coles in Halifax County, or to me in Albemarle. JOHN COLES.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, from the Subscriber, in Hanover County, near Newcastle, about the 24th of August last, a BAY MAKE, about 4 Feet 8 Inches high, trots and gallops well, branded on the near Buttock I, and has on her Rump a small white Spot. Whoever brings the said Mare to me in Hanover, shall have 20s. Reward if taken in the County, and 30s. if out thereof. JAMES GRANTLAND.
TO THE PUBLIC.
THE Number of Students now at Littleton School, in Cumberland County, manifestly proves that an Academy established in said County, on a proper Plan, might prove extremely useful; and as an introduction to such a Design, the School, which is at present under the Care of one Master only, shall be attended by two Masters after the first Day of October next, who have had a regular Education, and are to teach the Greek and Latin Languages, and the Mathematicks in all its Branches. It is intended to employ a third Master to teach Natural and Moral Philosophy, as soon as the Number of Students will afford sufficient Encouragement.
All possible pains shall be taken at this School to qualify the Youth for valuable and useful Members of Society, by inculcating on their Minds the necessity of living soberly, righteously, and godly, without Enthusiasm or Superstition.
From the many unnecessary Divisions, and erroneous Tenets, propagated among us, and the general Prevalency of Ignorance, Enthusiasm, and Impiety, among the lower Class of People, may be perceived the Necessity of having our Youth educated under the immediate Care and Superintendency of such as are Members of our happy Establishment, and of approved Morals.
There is a sufficient Number of Planters Houses convenient to the School, to board forty Boys. The annual Charge of each Student is ten pounds for Bed, Board, and Washing, and five Pounds for School Fees. As the Charge is moderate, and the Situation healthy and pleasant, it is hoped that this School shall meet with Encouragement, as long as the Conduct of the Masters (who are always to be Members of the Church of England) shall merit Approbation.
As soon as Peace is restored, it is intended to raise a sufficient Sum of Money, by Subscription, to support and maintain in perpetuum, a public School in this Parish, under the Care of several Masters, and to build necessary Houses, agreeable to a Plan to be approved of by a Majority of the Donors.
Just Published,
THE DUTY OF STANDING FAST IN OUR SPIRITUAL AND TEMPORAL LIBERTIES,
A SERMON,
Preached in CHRIST Church, the 7th of July, before the FIRST BATTALION of the City and Liberties of Philadelphia,
By the Rev. JACOB DUCHE, M. A.
Published at their Request, and inscribed to GEORGE WASHINGTON, Esq; General and Commander in Chief of the American Forces.
GALLATONS, Chap. V. Part of FIRST Verse:
STAND FAST, THEREFORE, IN THE LIBERTIES WHEREWITH CHRIST HATH MADE US FREE.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, a BLACK COW, with some White under her Belly, about three Years old last Spring, marked with a Crop in each Ear, the Crop is pretty much hollowed, something like a Swallowfork, Potted, and appraised to 21. 10s. CHARLES PEMBERTON.
TAKEN up, in Hanover, a SORREL MARE about 4 Feet 5 1/2 Inches high, 14 or 15 Years old, has a Star in her Forehead, several white Spots on each Side of her Head, some Saddle Spots, is scabby under the Belly, with white Hairs intermixed, not branded, had a Bell on, tied with a Part of an old Girth. Potted, and appraised to SIX POUNDS. THOMAS AUSTIN.
RICHMOND, August 23, 1775.
I INTEND to leave the Colony immediately. Mr. John Barret will collect what Debts are due to me on my Account, as well as what are due to us of our joint Account. He will also pay what Debts we owe. THOMAS REID.
TWENTY SHILLINGS REWARD.
STOLEN out of my Pasture, on Thursday the 17th of August last, a likely young BLACK MAKE, 5 Years old, branded on the near Buttock O, 5 Feet 5 Inches high, has three white Feet, a Blaze in her Face, which inclines a little to the right, and a Switch Tail and hanging Mane; she paces remarkably well and easy, and is very tractable at the Plough. Whoever delivers her to me in King and Queen, near Todd's Bridge, shall have the above Reward. ANNE PIERCE.
STOLEN from New Kent Courthouse, in the Night of the 27th Instant, a likely dun coloured bay MARE, 4 or 5 Years old last Spring, about 4 Feet 7 or 8 Inches high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail. She swings her Tail from Side to Side more than common when she trots, has lately been tarred on the Breast and Forehead for the Distemper, and branded, very intelligibly, on the near Buttock B. Whoever will bring the said Mare to me, at New Kent Courthouse, shall have a Reward of 10s. if taken up within 20 Miles of this Place, and in Proportion for a greater or smaller Distance. WARREN ASHLEY.
For SALE, by the Subscriber,
On the most reasonable Terms, for ready Money, A choice Parcel of West India RUM and Muscovado SUGAR.
PETERSBURG, Sept. 1, } 2) EMANUEL WALKER. 1775.
MANCHESTER, August 30, 1775.
I intend to leave the Colony for a few Months. JOHN TURNER.

POETS CORNER.
ADDRESS of the Author to his Bed.
THOU Bed, in which I first began To be that various creature, Man; And, when again the Fates decree, The place where I must cease to be;
FOR SALE, BY THE PRINTERS OF THIS PAPER, FINE WRITING PAPER, BLUE, BLOTTING, BROWN, and WHITED BROWN PAPER.—Also CARTRIDGE PAPER, By the REAM or QUIRE.
MANCHESTER, August 21, 1775. I shall leave this Colony immediately, and intend returning in a few Months. DANIEL MONTGOMERIE.
DINWIDDIE, September 1, 1775. FOR SALE, on very reasonable Terms, several Tracts of valuable PATENTED LAND, some of which have Plantations with considerable Improvements thereon;
Just come to Hand, And to be sold by the Subscriber, in Williamburg, A COMPLETE ASSORTMENT OF EUROPEAN GOODS, CONSISTING OF SUPERFINE and coarse Broadcloths, Casimirs, Bath Coating, Wiltons, &c. with suitable Trimmings; Silk and Worsted Stuffs, Durants, Callimancoes, black and green Lasting, black and Pink Serge Denim, Hair and Worsted Shags, Velvet, Corderoy; black, green, and Pink Breeches Patterns; brown and white Thread ditto, Silk Macaroni for Jackets and Breeches, black Silk Lasting, Taffeta, Satinet and Princess Stuff, Humhams, Mullins, white and printed Calicoes, Lustrings and Persians, flowered, striped, and plain Gauzes, Gauze Aprons and Handkerchiefs, flowered, striped, and plain Lawns, Lawn Aprons and Handkerchiefs, flowered Muslin Aprons; Patent Net ditto, Lustrings and Barcelona Handkerchiefs, white and coloured Sewing Silk, Nuns and coloured Thread, white and brown Stocking ditto, Men's, Women's, and Children's Silk, Thread, and Worsted Hose, Men's, Women's, and Children's Silk, Thread, and Leather Gloves, Men's, Women's, and Children's Shoes, Chair Lace, Beaver and Felt Hats, Leather Breeches, Cloves, Indigo, Pepper, Pimenta, Licorice, Mustard, Jesuits Bark, Anderson's Pills, Turbinton's Balsam, Greenough's Tincture, Cattle and Irish Soap, Train Oil, Paints, Copperas, Allum, Rice, Madeira and Port Wine by the Dozen.
WHEREAS Joseph Goodman and Timothy Goodman, of Hanover County, passed a Bond payable to me the 25th Day of December 1776, for 100l. current Money, and I have since assigned the said Bond to Christopher Hutchings of Pennsylvania County; I do, notwithstanding, hereby forewarn the said Joseph and Timothy Goodman from paying the said Bond to the said Hutchings, or any other Person that may take an Assignment from him. (2||) WILLIAM GOODMAN.
NORTHUMBERLAND, August 14, 1775. MY Wife Elizabeth having shamefully neglected, and opprobriously laid aside, the Duties of a Christian and a Wife, in every Respect where the conjugal Ties of Love and mutual Interest are binding, I am constrained to give this public Notice, that I will not be bound by any Contract she may make; and I hereby forewarn all Persons whatever from trusting or crediting her on the Strength of her Connexion with her much abused and injured Husband. THOMAS CARTER, Jun.
TO BE SOLD, Agreeable to the last Will and Testament of JAMES BALFOUR, deceased, on TUESDAY the 12th of SEPTEMBER, on the Premises, NINE Hundred and forty ACRES of LAND lying in Brunswick County, near Fontain's Creek, being the Land he purchased of Gray Briggs. Credit will be allowed till the 1st of January 1777 for one Half the Purchase Money, and till January 1778 for the other Half, on giving Bond (with approved Security) to carry Interest from the Date if not punctually discharged. All Persons having any Demands against the said Estate are desired to make them known as soon as possible. THOMAS EATON, AUGUSTINE WILLIS, } Executors.
I PROPOSE declining the Business I have for some Time past conducted for Messrs. John M c Donald and Co. of Glasgow. SIMON FRASER.
MR. Simon Fraser being about to decline the Business carried on by him at this Place, for Account of Messrs. John M c Donald and Co. of Glasgow, all Persons indebted to those Gentlemen, for Dealings with Mr. Fraser, and have it not in their Power to pay, are requested to come and settle their Accounts, by granting Bonds for their respective Balances, as soon as convenient for them; and those to whom the Store is indebted will have their Accounts adjusted and discharged as soon as possible. The Business (after the 1st of October) will be carried on under my Management. URBANNA, August 20, 1775. BENNETT BROWNE.
PRINCE EDWARD, August 20, 1775. I intend to leave the Colony soon, for some Time. JOHN GRAHAM.
PRINCESS ANNE, July 27, 1775. RUN away, last Night, from the Subscriber, in Princess Anne, a likely young Negro Fellow named DANIEL, about 18 Years of Age, short and thick, has small eyes, often smiles when spoke to, and one of his Feet is flatter than the other; had on, when he went away, an Osnaburg Shirt, an old blue coat, and a Pair of black knit Breeches, with Trousers over them. He carried with him two young Negro Boys, viz. JACK and PETER: Jack is about 15 Years old, well set, very artful, has a furry Look, flat Nose, and thick Lips; had on, when he went away, a new dark Russia Drab Coat and Breeches with white Metal Buttons, two Shirts, and two white Jackets, though probably may keep on his old blue Jacket and Trousers, which he wore in common. Peter, the Property of my Son, is about 16 Years old, taller than Daniel, much blacker than the other two, well made, and slow of Speech; had on, when he went away, a black Cloth Jacket, white Breeches, and an Osnaburg Shirt. I imagine they are lurking about Norfolk, or gone to Hampton, where Peter is well acquainted. I forewarn all Masters of Vessels from carrying them out of the Colony; and whoever secures the said NEGROES, so that I may get them again, shall be handsomely rewarded for each, by EDWARD HACK MOSELEY.
SIX POUNDS REWARD. STRAYED, or STOLEN, from Richmond Town, about the 18th of July last, a SORREL GELDING, 4 Feet 10 or 11 Inches high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, a large Star in his Forehead, a small Lump on his Back, and a remarkable Cut in his near fore Hoof that will never grow out, paces slow, trots and canters; his Brand (if any) forgot. Forty Shillings will be paid on Delivery of the Horse at Richmond, and four Pounds, if stolen, on Conviction of the Thief. JOHN SKELTON.
HANOVER Town, August 21, 1775. STOLEN from this Place, the 8th of June last, a LIGHT GRAY HORSE about 14 1/2 Hands high, 7 Years old, long bodied, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, paces and canters, and is a remarkable pleasant riding Horse. Whoever will bring him to me shall have 5l. Reward, and 10l. on Conviction of the Thief. THOMAS EVANS.
TAKEN up, in Prince George, a BAY HORSE with black Legs, a Star in his Forehead, is crest-fallen, appears to be old, 4 Feet 9 Inches high, with a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, and branded on the near Shoulder S. Pasted, and appraised to 7l.—ALSO a BRIGHT BAY MARE, 4 Feet 5 Inches high, with a drooped Rump, a thorough Pacer, and branded on the near Buttock with a Heart. Pasted, and appraised to 8l. THOMAS EPES.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, a black and white HEIFER about 3 Years old, marked with a Crop and Slit in each Ear, has now a Calf, which was calved since she came to my Plantation. Pasted, and appraised to 2l. 15s.—ALSO a pied HEIFER about 3 Years old, marked with a Swallowfork in the left Ear. Pasted, and appraised to 1l. 17s. 6d. THOMAS FOX.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a DARK BAY MARE about 9 Years old, 4 Feet 7 Inches high, branded on the near Buttock with a Woman's Stirrup, shod before, has some Saddle Spots, half-roughed Mane and Sprig Tail, a Slit in her Tangle, and a few white Hairs on her Nose. Pasted, and appraised to 15l. JACOB EARLY.
TAKEN up, in Henrico, a DARK BAY HORSE about 6 Years old, 4 Feet 9 Inches high, branded on the near Buttock with two Marks resembling Part of a W or M, has some white Hairs in his Mane, he paces slow, and his near fore Foot turns out. Pasted, and appraised to 17l. 10s. WILLIAM ELLIS.
THE Subscriber being very desirous of getting out of Debt, without any Dependence on his ungrateful Debtors, proposes to sell the pleasant and healthy Seat of HUNTINGTOUR, near Appomattox River, in the lower End of Buckingham, with 1500 or 2000 Acres of good Land, which produces fine Tobacco, Hemp, Wheat, &c. The Houses are new, and the best I have seen in the country; a larger and better Garden I believe is not in the Colony, and on this Land are several Hundred Fruit Trees of the best Kind, many of which were brought by water to Richmond Town above 80 Miles. On this Tract of Land is a large Proportion of exceeding fine Meadow Land, with a Fish Pond within three Hundred Yards of the Dwelling-House, stored with various Kinds of fine Fish, sufficient for the Use of a Family the Year round. In this Neighbourhood is Plenty of excellent Venison. The Air is so pure that I never knew an Instance of any Person having the Ague and Fever at Huntingtour. I have travelled through the most Parts of Virginia, and I have not seen any Part that I would so willingly reside in as this Neighbourhood. If I sell this Place, I shall live on the Part of this Tract of Land which has been advertised for some Time past. I make no Doubt but Appomattox River will be soon cleared, and then Wheat will be carried as far as Col. Banister's Mill, near Petersburg, for 4d. or 5d. per Bushel. I made at this Place 100 Gallons of rich Wine in 1772, and last Year (if it had not been for the Frost) I could have made 5 or 600 Gallons, which Quantity I expect to make this Year. HUNTINGTOUR would be a pleasant and safe Place for a Gentleman of Fortune to retreat to in the Horrors of a civil War, or in the sickly Months of many Parts of the Lowlands. "What is Honour, Grandeur, and Wealth? All fleeting, Nothing's without Health!" I hope any Gentlemen inclined to purchase will visit the Premises this Summer. I will also sell, very cheap (that is, for about Half the Value) the Tract of rich LAND I have advertised in Albemarle for some Time past. ANTHONY WINSTON.
KING WILLIAM, July 27, 1775. STOLEN, in the Night of the 20th Instant, from the Plantation of Ralph Wormeley, Esq; in this County, a LIGHT BAY HORSE, rising 4 Years old, 4 Feet 9 Inches high, with a Blaze Face, his left hind Foot white, neither docked nor branded. Also a BAY MARE about 14 Hands high, branded on the near Buttock RW, has a hanging Mane and Switch Tail, and has been lately worked in a Plough. Whoever will bring the said Horse and Mare to me, at the aforesaid Plantation, or will give such Intelligence that I may get them, shall have 20s. Reward if taken up in this County, and 40s. if out thereof. (tf) HARRY GAINES. There was a SADDLE carried off with the Horses.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in Williamburg, the 16th Instant (July) two Servant Men, viz. JOHN STAUNTON, an Englishman, very talkative, by Trade a Wheelwright, pitted with the Smallpox, about 5 Feet 7 or 8 Inches high, with short dark Hair; had on, when he went away, a brown Cloth Coat and Jacket, and striped and Check Trousers.—ANDREW M c GILL, a Scotchman, by Trade a Blacksmith, about 5 Feet 7 Inches high, wears short dark Hair, of a swarthy Complexion; had on a dark blue Cloth Coat and Jacket, Leather Breeches, and striped and Check Trousers.—I imagine they will endeavour to pass for Sailors, as from the ships of war. I have heard that they were seen going towards North Carolina, and will give 5l. for each if secured in any Gaol. (tf) JOHN SHIPHARD.
ALEXANDRIA, June 5, 1775. EIGHT POUNDS REWARD. RUN away from the Subscriber, two indentured Servants named ROBERT SHAW and ANDREW INGLES, both Natives of Scotland, and Bakers by Trade. Each of them had on a Bearskin Jacket lined with Plaid, Osnaburg Trousers, old Shoes, and Half worn Castor Hats. Their Bundles consist, as it is supposed, of two Match Coat Blankets, two Pair of Leather Breeches, two Osnaburg Shirts, two Check Shirts, and two red Jackets. Shaw is about 5 Feet 10 Inches high, has a swarthy Complexion, dark short frizzled Hair, a long Scar on his right Arm, appears bold, and talks much. Ingles is about 5 Feet 5 Inches high, has short straight Hair, swarthy and long featured, has a Scar over his right Eye, his right Leg is sore, he is fond of Liquor, and talks more in his Country Dialect than Shaw.—THOMAS WALSON, a Convict, about 27 Years of Age, a Barber by Trade, about 5 Feet 6 Inches high, has a Laddish down Look, brown straight Hair, a little knock-kneed, and a leering Look; had on, and took with him, two white Linen Shirts, an old Drab coloured Cloth Coat, one red and one striped Holland Jacket, one Pair of new Drilling Breeches, one Pair of old Buff coloured Stocking Breeches, one Pair of white and one Pair of white and blue spotted Stockings, a new Felt Hat bound with black Ferreting, has a black Silk Handkerchief, and some other Things which cannot be described.—WILLIAM LEE, by Trade a Cooper, about 5 Feet 9 Inches high, marked with the Smallpox, has a remarkable large Nose, speaks thick, and is impudent; he took with him a yellow Bull-Dog, with cropped Ears, one Side of his Face white, has a Glass Eye, and white Breast and Neck, is very fond of going into the Water, and answers to the Name of Turk. The said Lee had a Variety of Clothes, which cannot well be described. Whoever takes up, and secures the said Servants, shall have the above Reward, or 40s. for each, paid by JAMES KIRK. ROBERT ADAM. GEORGE PURVIS. (tf—||3s.)
TO BE SOLD, THREE Thousand Acres of well timbered LAND, near Newmarket, in Caroline County, whereon are two Plantations in good Repair, with proper and convenient Edifices for farming or making of Tobacco. For Terms apply to the Subscriber. (tf) JOHN BAYLOR.
TO BE SOLD, A TRACT of LAND in Caroline County, contiguous to Mattaponi, containing about 2000 Acres of well timbered Land, the Property of Mr. Robert Baylor. The Terms may be known by applying to Mr. Nathaniel Burwell of King William, Mr. John Armistead of Caroline, and Mr. John Baylor, Executors. (tf)
For SALE, and very CHEAP, THE Tract of LAND whereon I now live, in the lower End of Caroline County, that contains 470 Acres, and is known to be very good. The Improvements are, a new Dwelling-House 32 by 28 Feet, with three Dormants on a Side, two Fireplaces below, and one above, a good Cellar, the Kitchen 24 by 16 Feet, with all other Outhouses quite new, and the Plantation in fine Order for Cropping. Its Situation is equal to any Forest Place whatever. I will give Credit till next Christmas, when Possession may be had. (tf) LE ROY HIPKINS.
Just Published—Price one Shilling, The MANUAL EXERCISE As ordered by his Majesty in the Year 1764, WITH
EXPLANATIONS of the Method generally practised at Reviews and Field-Days. TO WHICH IS ADDED, The RULES and ARTICLES ordered by the General Congress, to be attended to, and observed for the better Government of the American Army.
Also, just published,—Price one Shilling, THE Sentiments of a Foreigner, On the Disputes of GREAT BRITAIN with AMERICA.—Translated from the French.
Likewise—Price fifteen Pence, A SERMON On the present Situation of AMERICAN Affairs, preached on the 23d of June last, at the Request of the Officers of the THIRD BATTALION of the City of Philadelphia, by WILLIAM SMITH, D. D. Provost of the College of that City.
** DIXON and HUNTER will give the best Price for any Quantity of clean Linen Rags.