The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg [Va.]), 1776-02-24 00:00:00

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LETTERS written by the late Right Hon. PHILIP DORMER STANHOPE, Earl of Chesterfield, to his Son Philip Stanhope, Esq; late Envoy Extraordinary to the Court of Dresden.
LETTER XIV.
HAVE often told you how necessary it was to have a perfect knowledge of History; but cannot repeat it often enough. Cicero properly calls it Testis temporum, lux veritatis, vita memoriae, magistra vitae, nuntia vetustatis . By the help of history, a young man may, in some measure, acquire the experience of old age. In reading what has been done, he is apprised of what he has to do; and, the more he is informed what is past, the better he will know how to conduct himself for the future.
Of all ancient histories, the Roman is the most interesting and instructive. It abounds most with accounts of illustrious men, and presents us with the greatest number of important events. It likewise spurs us on, more than any other, to virtuous actions, by showing how small a city, like Rome, founded by a handful of shepherds and vagabonds, could, in the space of seven hundred years, render herself mistress of the world by courage and virtue. Hence it is, that I have resolved to form a small abridgement of that history, in order to facilitate your acquiring the knowledge of it; and, for the better imprinting it in your mind, I desire that, by little and little, you would translate, and copy it fair into a book, which you must not fail to bring to me every Sunday.
The whole time of the Roman history, from Romulus down to Augustus Cæsar, being seven hundred and twenty three years, may be divided into three periods.
The first, under the seven Kings, is of two hundred and forty four years.
The second, from the expulsion of the Kings, and establishment of the Consuls, to the first Punic war, is likewise two hundred and forty four years.
The third is, from the first Punic war down to the reign of Augustus Cæsar, and lasts two hundred and thirty five years: Which three periods, added together, make up the seven hundred and twenty three years above-mentioned, from the foundation of Rome to the reign of Augustus Cæsar.
In the reign of Augustus, Rome was at the summit of her greatness; for she was mistress of the world, though no longer mistress of herself, having lost both her ancient liberty and her ancient virtue. Augustus established the Imperial power, which soon degenerated into the most detestable and cruel tyranny, under the succeeding Emperors; in consequence of which, Rome fell from her former greatness, in a shorter space of time than she had taken to ascend to it.
The first form of government established at Rome was Monarchical; but a limited, not an absolute Monarchy, as the power was divided between the King and the Senate. The kingdom was elective, and not hereditary; that is, when one King died, another was chosen in his room, and the son of the deceased King did not succeed him. Romulus, who was founder of Rome, was also her first King; he was elected by the people, and he formed the first system of government. He appointed the Senate, which consisted of one hundred; and divided the people into three orders; namely, Patricians, who were of the first rank or order; Knights, of the second; and the third was the common people, whom he called Plebeians.
LETTER XV.
ROMULUS and Remus were twins, and sons of Rhea Sylvia, daughter of Numitor, King of Alba. Rhea Sylvia was, by her uncle Amulius, shut up among the Vestals, and constrained by him to become one of their number, to prevent her having any children: For the Vestals were obliged to inviolable chastity. She, nevertheless, proved with child, and pretended she had been forced by the God Mars. When she was delivered of Romulus and Remus, Amulius commanded the infants to be thrown into the Tiber. They were in fact brought to the river, and exposed in their cradle; but the water retiring, it remained on the dry ground. A she-wolf coming there to drink, suckled them, till they were taken home by Faustulus, a shepherd, who educated them as his own. When they were grown up, they associated with a number of Latins, Albans, and shepherds, and founded Rome. Romulus, desirous of reigning alone, killed his brother Remus, and was declared King by his followers. On his advancement to the throne, he divided the people into three tribes, and thirty curiæ; into Patricians, Plebeians, Senate, Patrons, Clients, and Knights. The Patricians were the most considerable of all. The common people were called Plebeians. The Patrons were of the most reputable sort, and protected a certain number of the lower class, who went under the denomination of their clients. The Senate consisted of one hundred persons, chosen from among the Patricians; and the Knights were a select body of three hundred horsemen, who served as life guards to Romulus, to whom he gave the name of Celeres.
But Romulus, not satisfied with these regulations, instituted a form of religious worship; establishing the Aurspices and Augurs. These were Priests; and the business of the former was to inspect the entrails of the victim offered in sacrifice; that of the latter, to observe the flying, chattering, or singing of birds, declaring whether the omens were favourable or not, before the undertaking of any enterprise.
Romulus, with a view of attracting the people to his new city, declared it an asylum, or sanctuary, for all who were willing to
establish their abode in it. This expedient brought an infinite number of people, who flocked to him in the neighbouring towns and country. An asylum, signifies a place of safety and protection, for such as are loaded with debts, or who have been guilty of crimes, and fly from justice. In Catholic countries, their churches are, at this very time, asylums for all sorts of criminals, who take shelter in them.
But Rome, at this time, had few or no women: To remedy which want, Romulus sent proposals of marriage to his neighbours, the Sabines; who rejected them with disdain: Whereupon Romulus published throughout all the country, that, on a certain day, he intended to celebrate the festival of the God Consus*, and invited the neighbouring cities to assist at it. There was a great concourse from all parts, on that occasion, particularly of the Sabines; when, on a sudden, the Romans, at a signal given, seized, sword in hand, all the young women they could meet: And afterwards married them. This remarkable event is called, the rape of the Sabines. Enraged at this affront and injustice, the Sabines declared war against the Romans; which was put an end to, and peace concluded, by the mediation of the Sabine women living at Rome. A strict union was made between the Romans and Sabines, who became one and the same people; and Tatius, King of the Sabines, reigned jointly with Romulus; but dying soon after, Romulus reigned again alone.
Pray observe, that the rape of the Sabines was more an advantageous, than a just measure; yet the utility of it should not warrant its injustice; for we ought to endure every misfortune, even death, rather than be guilty of an injustice; and indeed this is the only one that can be imputed to the Romans for many succeeding ages: An age, or century, means one hundred years.
Rome's growing power soon raised jealousy in her neighbours, so that Romulus was obliged to engage in several wars, from which he always came off victorious; but as he began to behave himself tyrannically at home, and attacked the privileges of the Senate, with a view of reigning with more despotism , he suddenly disappeared. The truth is, the Senators killed him; but, as they apprehended the indignation of the people, Proculus Julius, a Senator of great repute, protested before the people, that Romulus had appeared to him as a God; assuring him, that he had been taken up to Heaven, and placed among the Deities: And desired that the Romans should worship him, under the name of Quirinus; which they accordingly did.
Take notice, that the Roman government, under Romulus, was a mixed and free government; and the King so far from being absolute, that the power was divided between him, the Senate, and the people, much the same as it is between our King, the House of Lords, and House of Commons; so that Romulus, attempting so horrible a piece of injustice, as to violate the privileges of the Senate, and the liberties of the people, was deservedly punished, as all tyrants ought to be. Every man has a natural right to his liberty; and whoever endeavours to ravish it from him, deserves death more than the robber who attacks us for our money on the highway.
Romulus directed the greatest part of his laws and regulations to war; and formed them with the view of rendering his subjects a warlike people, as indeed they were, above all others. Yet it likewise proved fortunate for Rome, that his successor, Numa Pompilius, was a Prince of pacific disposition, who applied himself to the establishing good order in the city, and enacting laws for the encouragement of virtue and religion.
After the death of Romulus, there was a year's interregnum . An interregnum is the interval between the death of one King and the election of another, which can happen only in the elective kingdoms; for, in hereditary monarchies, the moment a King dies, his son, or his nearest relation, immediately ascends the throne.
During the above interregnum , the Senators alternately executed the functions of a Sovereign; but the people soon became tired of that sort of government, and demanded a King. The choice was difficult; as the Sabines on one side, and the Romans on the other, were desirous of a King's being chosen from among themselves. However, there happened at that time, to live in the little town of Cures, not far from Rome, a man in great reputation for his probity and justice, called Numa Pompilius, who led a retired life, enjoying the sweets of repose, in a country solitude. It was unanimously agreed to choose him King; and Ambassadors were despatched to notify to him his election; but he, far from being dazzled by so sudden and unexpected an elevation, refused the offer, and could scarce be prevailed on to accept it, by the repeated entreaties of the Romans, and of his nearest relations; proving himself the more worthy of that high dignity, as he the less sought it. Remark from that example of Numa Pompilius; how virtue forces her way, and shines through the obscurity of a retired life; and that sooner or later it is always rewarded.
Numa, being now seated on the throne, applied himself to soften the manners of the Romans, and to inspire them with a love of peace, by exercising them in religious duties. He built a temple in honour of the God Janus, which was to be a public mark of war and peace, by keeping it open in time of war, and shut in time of peace. It remained closed during his whole long reign; but from that time, down to the reign of Augustus Cæsar, it was shut but twice; once at the end of the first Punic war, and the second time, in the reign of Augustus, after the fight of Actium, where he vanquished Marc Anthony. The God Janus is always represented with two faces, one looking on the time past, and the other on the future; for which reason you will often find him, in the Latin Poets, called Janus bifrons, two-fronted Janus . But, to return to Numa; he pretended to have secret conferences with the Nymph Egeria, the better to prepare the people (who are ever fond of what is marvellous) to receive his laws and ordinances as divine inspirations. In short, he inspired his subjects with the love of industry, frugality, and even of poverty. He died, universally regretted by his people, after a reign of forty-three years.
* According to Plutarch, the God of Counsel.
We may venture to say, that Rome was indebted for all her grandeur to these two Kings, Romulus and Numa, who laid the foundations of it. Romulus took pains to form the Romans to war; Numa, to peace and justice. Had it not been for Numa, they would have continued fierce and uncivilized; had it not been for Romulus, they would, perhaps, have fallen into indolence and obscurity: But it was the happy union of religious, civil, and military virtues, that rendered them masters of the world.
Tullus Hostilius was elected King, immediately after the death of Numa Pompilius. This Prince had as great talents for war, as his predecessor had for peace, and he soon found an opportunity to exercise them; for the city of Alba, already jealous of the power of Rome, sought a pretext of coming to a rupture with her. War, in fact, was declared on both sides, and the two armies were ready to engage, when an Alban proposed, in order to spare so great an effusion of blood, that a certain number of warriors should be chosen out of each army, on whose victory the fortune of both nations should depend.
Tullus Hostilius accepted the proposal; and there happening to be, in the Alban army, three brothers, named Curiatii; and in the Roman army, three brothers, called Horatii; who were all much of the same age and strength, they were pitched upon for the champions, and joyfully accepted a choice which reflected so much honour on them. Then, advancing in presence of both armies, the signal for combat was given. Two of the Horatii were soon killed by the Curiatii, who were themselves all three wounded. The third of the Horatii remained yet unhurt; but, not capable of encountering the three Curiatii all together, what he wanted in strength, he supplied by stratagem. He pretended to run away, and, having gained some ground, looked back, and saw the three Curiatii pursuing him, at some distance from each other, hastening with as much speed as their wounds permitted them; he then returning, killed all three, one after another.
The Romans received him joyfully in their camp; but his sister, who was promised in marriage to one of the Curiatii, meeting him, poured forth a deluge of tears, reproaching him with the death of her lover; whereupon the young conqueror, transported with rage, plunged his sword into her bosom. Justice condemned him to death; but having appealed to the people, he received his pardon, in consideration of the service he had rendered to his country.
Tullus Hostilius reigned thirty two years, and conducted other wars against the Sabines and Latins. He was a Prince possessed of great qualities, but too much addicted to war.
A singular instance of GENEROSITY, translated from LA CLEDE'S HISTORY OF PORTUGAL.
THOUGH little detached pieces of history cannot be supposed to give us any Important idea of the rise and fall of empires, the religion, customs, and manners of great and powerful states, yet, in periodical publications, they perhaps answer, if properly selected, a more noble purpose: They improve the heart, regulate the passions, and, by exploring to our view pictures drawn from real nature, make us the more inclinable, either to imitate the virtue, or despise the vice. One example will go further than an hundred precepts; and, in proportion as the examples of virtue and vice are predominant in any age among the great, so will the morals of the vulgar be.
While Rome was a growing state, her Generals were brave and virtuous, and they were imitated by the meanest citizens; but, when luxury, grandeur, and the thirst of power and partial distinction, crept into the senate, men were held in consideration only in proportion to the magnificence of their buildings, the luxury of their tables, and their external parade.
When time has established facts, when the corroborating testimony of succeeding ages has fixed its seal on them, and when they afford examples which come home to the bosom of every individual, we pay more respect to them than we do to those fleeting objects which daily present themselves to our view in our own times. From the ancients we learn wisdom; from our own times to imitate the prevailing vices and fashions.
"During the war between the Portuguese and the inhabitants of the island of Ceylon, Thomas de Sufá, who commanded the European forces, took prisoner a beautiful Indian, who had promised herself in marriage to an amiable youth. The lover was no sooner informed of this misfortune, than he hastened to throw himself at the feet of his adorable nymph, who with transport caught him in her arms. Their sighs and their tears were mingled, and it was some time before their words could find utterance to express their grief. At last, when they had a little recovered, they agreed, since their misfortunes left them no hopes of living together in freedom, to partake with each other all the horrors of slavery."
Sufá, who had a soul truly susceptible of tender emotions, was moved at the sight. "It is enough (said he to them) that you wear the chains of love; you shall not wear the chains of slavery. Go and be happy in lawful embraces of wedlock."
The two lovers fell on their knees. They could not persuade themselves to quit so generous a hero, and thought themselves happy in being permitted to live under the laws of a nation who so nobly knew how to make use of victory, and so generously to soften the calamities of war."
SPEECH of the Hon. TEMPLE LUTTRELL, in the House of Commons, on the motion for an humble address to his Majesty, Oct. 27.
MR. SPEAKER,
WE might reasonable suppose, that the Ministers who had a hand in fabricating this voluminous speech, would be impatient to obtain our approbation and thanks as representatives of the community in general, in the name of the people of Great Britain, who are our actual constituents; in the name of the people of America, who (as they tell us) are our virtual constituents.
Those evil counsellors, who have so long poisoned the ear of their Sovereign, would now make us believe they had perverted his principles also: They wish us to consider the speech before you as conveying his Majesty's own sentiments and resolves. Sir,

we know that to be impossible. Our King is too humane, and besides, too well acquainted with the history of this country and its constitution, with the memoirs of the Stuart race, and of his own illustrious House, to imbibed the despotic doctrines here imputed to him. His Majesty knows, that when either of the three estates of this empire, or the whole in conspiracy together, shall arrogate power to which they are incompetent, such as infringing the original rights and liberties of the people in any part of the British dominions, it is the exertion of such power, not the resistance to it, which constitutes rebellion. If this be not the case, the glorious revolution was above all rebellions the most atrocious.
We, who are the deputies of the people, assembled together from different counties, cities, and boroughs of the kingdom, ought faithfully to impart to his Majesty the real wishes and dispositions of his subjects. As the first counsellors of the Crown, it is our peculiar province to advise and direct his Majesty on every national emergency like the present. But, Sir, in order to qualify us to do so, affection to our King, obligation to our country, and sober wisdom, all combine in requiring the closest and most deliberate discussions, and the deepest researches into the true bias of the times, previous to the offering up any address to the throne whatever. An address, at such a crisis as this, upon such important and decisive matters, cannot be considered as a mere point of etiquette, or personal compliment to our Sovereign; if it could, there is not a member of this House would be more forward in duty and obsequiousness than myself. Are we not totally ignorant of the real state of Great Britain and her colonies? Sir, the sense of the society at large is not to be ascertained by the signature of a score of provincial corporations, under corrupt ministerial influence; it is not to be ascertained by the voice of repletion and revelry, by a few mistaken individuals, brought together under the hospitable roof of a great Baron's castle. Sir, within those battlements Kings are not, now a days, made or unmade; it is not to be ascertained by the cry of a few Tory justices, ducile magistrates, huddled together by their creator the Lord Lieutenant of the county, to approve of proscriptive and proclamations, devised in councils, where he himself takes the lead as President. Sir, I will tell the noble Lord who spoke last that if the people of Lancaster, Liverpool, and Manchester, were the oracles of British law and policy, the Electors of Hanover had never swayed the imperial sceptre of this realm. I admire, however, the spirited zeal and consistency of the addressing inhabitants of that part of England; I admire their firm reverence for the divine authority of Kings, their defence of Popery, of arbitrary government, and sword law. The same political tenets which now fill the heads of these loyal addressers, filled also the heads of their townsmen in forty five and forty six. Those heads, which being impaled over Temple Bar in the last Whig reign, were soon after the commencement of the present, when a mighty northern Thane came into office, taken down with veneration and are now, it is said, enshrined in a certain interior cabinet where a Right Hon. Household officer in my eye, and others of the White Rose junto, frequently offer upon a bended knee their secret orisons and incense. Sir, the noble Lord who spoke last, and the Right Hon. member who delivered his sentiments earlier in the debate, have assured you, that the sense of this country is against the Americans. I am confident, as well from the intelligence I have been able to procure from a multitude of persons widely different in station and description, as by my own remarks in the progress of many a journey through the interior parts of this island, during the summer season, that the sense of the mass of the people is in favour of the Americans. They think that the provocation given by a rash and insufficient Ministry to the colony of Massachusetts Bay, in lawless and oppressive exactions, enforced by famine, devastation, and slaughter, at length constitutionally justified an appeal to arms. A very learned judge, who does now signal honour to the coif, assures us, in his excellent book of commentaries, that every freeman is warranted in the use of arms for defence of his rightful possessions and liberty; and that great luminary of his profession, Lord Chief Justice Holt, in pronouncing judgement on the memorable case of Tooley and Dekins, says, "When the liberty of the subject is invaded, it is a provocation to all the subjects of England." Where then will these grievances, this civil war and carnage, terminate? I shall now borrow the words of Sir Charles Sedley, in the last age, to express my astonishment, that a nation, sick at heart as ours is, should wear so florid a countenance. But, Sir, is it not that hectic bloom which is frequently found to accompany a radical decay of the constitution, or rather some artificial beautifier spread over the surface of a cadaverous substance, for popular show and delusions? We have heretofore found it expedient, when this kingdom has been shaken to its foundation, from one extremity to the other, as it now actually is; when the original compact between the governing power and the subject has been differently construed, and in danger of being totally dissolved; I say, Sir, that the Commons in Parliament assembled, have found it expedient to inquire, in the first place, into the actual state and condition of the nation in general: For this we have a recent precedent, almost within the memory of man, not strictly speaking in the journals of a Parliament, but in the journals of a national and constitutional Assembly, which has done more good than all your Parliaments since the days of Henry the III. put together, which restored and established, on a firm basis, the Protestant religion, and civil liberties of the people, and which brought in the amiable families of Nassau and of Brunswick to maintain that religion, and to protect us in the enjoyment of those liberties: I mean, Sir, the convention, or Congress, in the year 1688, whose acts and resolutions ought, like the leaves of the Sybils of old, to be fanatically reverted to, at all times of state perplexity and peril. I therefore desire that the motion made on the opening of this Congress, commonly called the Convention Parliament, and which was the ground work of the glorious revolution, be now read.
[The motion was then read, which stands upon the journals in the following words: "That the House do appoint a day to take into consideration the state and condition of the nation;" which motion passed, nemine contradicente , for the Monday following.]
I now move you, Sir, that this House do appoint a day to take into consideration the present state and condition of Great Britain and her colonies, in order to ground thereupon an affectionate and dutiful address to the Crown, in answer to his Majesty's speech, this day delivered from the throne.
I am sorry not to see the honourable member, who proposed, and so ably supported this address, now in his seat; for I flatter myself he would acknowledge his motion premature, and admit of the necessity to take the preliminary step of ascertaining the temper and resources of Great Britain and her colonies, in order to address his Majesty with good effect; when we shall, I trust, open his eyes to the manifold impositions put upon his royal confidence, by some dark and dangerous partisans, ambushed too near the throne, and help him to restore that peace, good order, and happiness, throughout all his dominions, without which it is impossible that he can continue to reign over us with security; or that so pious and benevolent a Prince as he is, though he wears the most brilliant diadem in Christendom, can make it sit easy on his brow.
* Alluding to the famous Earl of Warwick, who alternately deposed Henry IV. and Edward VI.
† Earl of Gower, in the county of Stafford.
‡ Lord Stanley.
§ Lord Stanley and Mr. Rice.
CAMBRIDGE, Jan. 25.
LAST Sunday a vessel, filled with our distressed brethren of Boston, put off from that place, and landed her passengers at Chelsea, among whom were Capt. Andrew Symmes, and Capt. John Dean. It is said a considerable number more were soon to follow.
Since our last we have had several deserters. One of them stationed at Charlestown mills, pitched his companion over the dam, and then run for Cobble Hill.
Last Thursday one of our cruisers, commanded by Captain Mascoll, carried into Cape Anne, a ship of 250 tons. She was from Lyn Haven in England, bound to Boston, and had on board, besides other valuable articles, 1500 blankets, 100 bolts of osnabrug, 100 casks of oatmeal, a large number of shoes, and a quantity of coal.
We are assured, that Mr. Nathaniel Felt, of Salem, within a few days past, has produced, from only three packs of earth, which he took from under an old hearth, sixteen pounds and three quarters of a pound of genuine saltpetre.
Extract of a letter from a Gentleman in the WEST INDIES, to his friend in FALMOUTH, CASCO BAY.
"We are anxious—very anxious, to hear from you.—Don't think because we know little, we care little about you; for though you have here many enemies, you have also many staunch friends, who, though living in a land where slavery is not only tolerated, but productive of the greatest wealth and affluence to the masters and proprietors, yet retain such a sense of freedom, as openly to defend her cause, and with zeal and warmth side with the Americans in their present glorious struggle for the restoration of such of their natural and stipulated liberties as have been wrested from them; and the preservation of such as yet remain. The conquest of America by all the troops Britain has or can send from her island, appears to me the most idle and chimerical plan ever adopted by a Minister, with less than half Lord North's abilities. I cannot help thinking the Minister, before this, must be convinced that the Americans not only can, but will fight; and in order to enforce the present measures, a much greater force than they have or can send, will be necessary; and therefore be induced to propose some method of accommodation, not unworthy AMERICANS to accede to. That you will finally succeed, I not only hope, but believe."
February 1. Last Tuesday an express arrived from Canada with despatches for his Excellency the General, dated the 15th ult. We have the pleasure to hear that our army, notwithstanding the loss sustained in the late unfortunate attack upon Quebec, still continues the blockade of that city; and that we have good grounds to hope that the reduction of that capital will be completed before the spring, as we have authentic intelligence that reinforcements from various quarters have been poured in to the assistance of our brave little army.
Last Thursday morning, Capt. Manly being on a cruise in the bay, discovered a ship a league or two S. E. of Boston light house. He immediately gave chase to, and took her within sight of the ships in Boston harbour. He then stood for a snow which he espied off Cohasset; and soon coming up with, she struck to him without hesitation. Just as Capt. Manly had manned his last prize, a schooner of eight carriage guns, with many swivels, and full of men, convoying two provision vessels from Halifax, came up, and began an engagement with Capt. Manly; but being soon convinced of her error, she sheered off for Boston. Capt. Manly would have undoubtedly taken her also, with the two provision vessels, had not his crew (which was at first much short of the complement) been considerably weakened by manning the two prizes. In the engagement his gunner was wounded, and his rigging something damaged. We have not heard what loss the enemy sustained. Both of the prizes which were loaded with coal from Whitehaven, in England, Capt. Manly got safe into Plymouth with the ensuing night.
It is said about 100 sail of transports may be soon expected on the coast from England.
A wood vessel, bound to Boston, was taken by one of our cruisers, this week, in the bay.
Last Monday one of the continental cruisers got into a harbour at the eastward, after having been chased by the Lively man of war, who fired about 170 shot at her.
Extract of a letter from a young Gentleman in LONDON, to his father, a customhouse officer in NEW ENGLAND, dated September, 1775.
"Give me leave to advise you to endeavour living in quiet, and to cultivate the good will and friendship of your neighbours and townsmen, in these critical times. Administration does not desire nor expect the officers of the revenue to intermeddle in the present political disputes. By no means think of coming to England: Those persons who have, without orders or leave of absence, quitted America, are now neglected and starving here at home."
NEW LONDON, Jan. 26. We hear, that on the report of our unsuccessful attempt upon Quebec, about 5000 men from the back parts of Massachusetts Bay, Connecticut, and New York, immediately marched off, determined to force their way into Quebec, and drag out the infamous Carleton and his banditti, or nobly perish in the attempt.
NEW YORK, February 1.
WE hear from Albany, that General Schuyler found at Johnstown, 5 or 600 men assembled, who, without resistance, delivered up their arms; that he took from them 670 muskets, nine pieces of loaded cannon, and brought off 15 prisoners. Sir John, to oblige our friendly Indians, was released on his bond and hostages.
The store ship mentioned in our last, taken by the people in New Jersey, is burthen about 400 tons, commanded by Captain Dempster (brother to a member of Parliament of that name) her cargo consisted of 120 chaldrons of coal, 100 butts of porter, 300 sacks of potatoes, 10 pipes of sour croud, 4 four pounders, some powder and arms; and sundry other goods, with 80 hogs, most of which died on the passage.
February 8. Last Thursday, being the day appointed for the election of members to represent this city and county in General Assembly, a number of respectable mechanics and other citizens assembled at the coffee-house in the morning, and preceded by a flag, upon which there was an emblematical representation of the Thirteen United Colonies, with this motto, "In Union there's Strength." They paraded through the principal streets, and in the course of their procession were joined by many friends to liberty, with the high sheriff; they marched in good order to the place of election, where the following Gentlemen, well attached to the great cause of American freedom, were chosen without opposition:
PHILIP LIVINGSTON, JOHN ALSOP. JOHN JAY, ALEX. M'DOUGALL.
What think ye of our New York Tories now?
Extract of a letter from ST. THOMAS, Jan. 20, 1776.
"The schooner Hope, Capt. Cunningham, arrived at St. Eustatia the 17th inst. after being within 30 hours sail of New York; but was obliged to bear away the 25th ult. the Captain, mate, and all the people on board being sick, except one man. From good authority I can assure you, that 8000 troops are at Martinico, and every merchantman brings out from 25 to 50 soldiers. A fleet is daily expected with 3000 more for said place. 5000 troops are at Guadalupe, and 8000 at the Cape. The intention of the French is, to let the troops from Europe arrive in America, and then they will unfold their designs. I imagine the
Windward Islands and Jamaica will receive no benefit from these manoeuvres. I make no doubt but the French will be the means of bringing England and America to a reconciliation in three months, and heartily wish it may be done on honourable terms to both parties."
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 5.
Extract of a letter from an officer in the expedition on Long Island, dated at Jericho, January 26, 1776.
WE set out from Woodbridge, on Wednesday the 17th inst. with about 600 militia, and were joined at New York with a detachment from Lord Stirling's battalion, consisting of near 300; and on Friday morning we crossed with all our troops at Horn's Hook, near Hell Gate, and met with no opposition; proceeded on our way to Jamaica, took in custody some of the principal persons proscribed, sent out parties and brought in many of those who voted against sending Delegates, disarmed them, and required them to sign an obligation we had drawn up, in which we enjoin them not to oppose either the Continental or Provincial Congresses, but to be subject to them, and not to aid or assist the ministerial troops in the present contest. From Jamaica we went to Hempstead town, where we expected the warmest opposition, but were disappointed, for the inhabitants came and brought in their arms voluntarily for two days as fast as we could conveniently receive them. We have got about 300 stand of arms, and a considerable quantity of powder and lead. We are now on our way to Oyster bay, and shall scour the country as we go, and shall exert ourselves to discharge the trust enjoined on us. Col. Heard sent the detachment home last Tuesday, as he thought the militia sufficient. He is indefatigable in discharging his duty, treats the inhabitants with civility and the utmost humanity, and even the delinquents express themselves well pleased, that a detachment of Jersey-men (and not of New England) were sent to disarm them. Many of those who are proscribed as principals, have either fled or secured themselves; several we have in custody. Some others I believe are yet to be had, but by some means or other they have had a list of the persons pointed out as principals, before our arrival; we are making inquiry how they got their intelligence, but are not yet informed. Those that have come in, and surrendered their arms, are much irritated with those who have led them to make opposition, and have deserted them in the day of difficulty. I conceive they will be as safe, if not safer, in our custody, than at present among their neighbours, of which some of them seem very apprehensive, and complain that they have met with insults already.
FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA PACKET.
"Death, ere thou best kill'd another, Brave, and wise, and good as he! Time shall throw a dart at thee." Spen.
WHAT mean those tears, that thus effusive flow? Why throbs each breast with agonizing woe?
MONTGOMERY's dead!—a name by all rever'd;
By patriots lov'd!—by dastard tyrants fear'd.
For this, did he embark, in Freedom's cause!
Nobly supporting our expiring laws?
Was it for this he left his native home,
The frozen wilds of Canada to roam?
For this he toil'd to execute the plan,
Which prov'd the hero—prov'd, too clear, the man!
Alas, too clear!—on Abraham's hapless plain,
Where brave Montcalm and braver Wolfe were slain,
There view the wife, the valiant, and the just;
There Roman greatness mingles with the dust.
No more, to war, the drum or fife shall raise
That head, encircled with immortal bays!
No more shall troops, with Roman courage fir'd,
With ardent zeal, for liberty, inspir'd,
Led on by him, embattled hosts engage;
For oh! he's dead—the hero of the age!
When Cato fell, Rome mourn'd the fatal blow;
Wolfe's death bid streams of British tears to flow:
Why, then, should freemen stop the friendly tear,
Or ever blush to weep for one so dear?
Oh! no—for him, with sighs, our bosoms heave,
And with the bay we now the cypress weave.
And oh! while valour, virtue, we revere,
Or unsuccessul merit claims a tear,
To brave MONTGOMERY we that tear will give:
His name with Cato's and with Wolfe's shall live.
On the death of Capt. JOHN M'PHERSON.
'TIS done—the gloomy doleful scene is o'er,
The curtain's dropt—M'Pherston is no more!
As when a rose, in ever vernal bloom,
Shedding abroad a fragrant, sweet perfume,
Nipt by chilling frosts, droops its languid head,
And dies, nor longer decks the flow'ry bed,
Just so M'Pherston, in youth's gayest pride,
Fell, bravely fighting, by his Gen'ral's side.
February 12. We hear that among other honours decreed to the memory of General Montgomery, by the Hon. Continental Congress, they have appointed a funeral oration; which is to be composed by Dr. Smith, and will be delivered on Monday the 19th inst. at 11 o'clock in the forenoon.
Extract of a letter from NEW YORK, February 7.
"The town is in the greatest confusion. The Congress have recommended for the inhabitants to move out. The Mercury man of war has demanded three months provision, which is refused. Lord Stirling came to town this morning, with Jersey forces."
Extract of another letter from NEW YORK, Feb. 7.
"The Governor sent for the Mayor, and desired him to assure the public, that General Clinton was only come to pay him a visit on his way, and that the troops should not land here; nevertheless it was thought necessary to keep a strict look out, for fear they should land by surprise; in consequence of which half of our battalion kept guard all night, the other half the next, and the second battalion are doing the same. Nothing hostile has yet commenced, but God knows how soon it may. The ice obliges the ships to warp close to the wharf. This day the ice in large cakes was chock from side to side, and many people upon it."
Extract of a letter from CAMBRIDGE, January 28.
"Last Thursday Capt. Manly took two store ships loaded with provisions, potatoes, coal, &c. which he carried into Plymouth, notwithstanding he was attacked by a cutter, which he could have taken had he not been afraid of losing his prizes. It is said that Capt. Waters in the course of last week took a ship and brig, but the success of Waters wants confirmation. It would now be no news to acquaint you with the burning the houses at Charlestown, or rather at the fort of Bunker's hill, but the circumstances being old and humorous, shall give them to you; when about 200 of our people (Col. Mifflin in the number) were performing the business, the regulars were acting a play called the Busy Body; that being finished, the scenes were hoisted to perform a farce (wrote by the officers) called the Blockade of Boston, General Washington, with a large wig and long rusty sword, had just appeared on the stage, together with his orderly serjeant, who had a rusty gun of seven feet long on his shoulder; at that instant one of the regular serjeants came running (almost out of breath) on the stage, on which he threw his bayonet, and hallowed out, Boston is on fire and attacked in fifty places; those who were unacquainted with the farce, thought this part of

it, but General Howe cried out, Officers to your alarm posts , which changed the act to shrieking, crying, fainting, &c. and indeed the troops on Bunker's hill were not much less frighted than they were in Boston, for notwithstanding the officers ordered the men to preserve their fire, they kept a continual blaze all round the hill. Col. Nesbitt, who commanded, was tried for not calling out on our men, but have not heard his fate.
"The weather is now very cold, should it continue so for one week longer, think we should have a good bridge to Boston."
"There are now here the chiefs of three tribes of Canadian Indians; thirteen of the Chickawagah's have been here eight days; the two other tribes came but yesterday; the former have dined with Generals Washington and Putnam, and spend one half their time at Col. Mifflin's, which, together with some tawdry clothing that has been given them, has pleased them much, and they desire that we may look upon them as our assured friends." Extract of a letter from NEW YORK, dated February 5, 1776.
"Yesterday about the same time Generals Lee and Clinton arrived. The Committee of Safety met immediately, and we expected something like a commencement of hostilities to day. The Mayor went on board, and the Governor and General both assured him not a man was to be landed here. A 20 gun ship, said to be the Mercury, and a transport, came into the harbour yesterday. Clinton came in the frigate, and is going to the southward, I believe to Virginia. A Dr. Gilson has been taken into custody at Newport, and sent to Head Quarters, for treasonable practices at Rhode Island. Lee says he will send word on board the men of war, that if they set a house on fire, in consequence of his coming, he will chain an hundred of their friends together by the neck, and make the house their funeral pile."
"We are told that there are fourteen or fifteen hundred troops arrived at New York, last week, from Connecticut, who are under the command of General Lee. And that the regulars, under General Clinton, were absolutely sent for by Governor Tryon."
Extract of a letter from CAMBRIDGE, January 23. "I have been informed, by a Gentleman who left Boston last Saturday, that General Clinton is gone on board a 20 gun ship, and is bound with a number of transports, having on board two regiments (about 600 men) to some distant place, where he expects to meet five or six other regiments from Europe; some suppose he is going to Virginia. A 40 gun ship of war arrived there last week; she left England the 27th of November. Nothing has transpired, but that General Gage arrived 13 days before she failed."
Last Monday Brigadier General Prescott was removed from his apartments in the city tavern, to the new goal, by order of the Hon. Continental Congress.—It is said he was guilty of cruelly treating the prisoners taken from the continental army in Canada, particularly Col. Allen, lately sent home to England in irons.
A NEW SONG.
[To the Tune of the BRITISH GRENADIERS.] V AIN BRITON'S, boast no longer with proud indignity, By land---your conquering legions---your matchless strength at sea!
Since WE your brave sons, incens'd, our swords have girded on, Huzza, huzza, huzza, huzza, for WAR and WASHINGTON! Urg'd on by North and vengeance, these valiant champions came,
Loud bellowing TEA and TREASON! and GEORGE was all on flame!
Yet sacrilegious as it seems---we REBELS still live on--- And laugh at all your empty puffs, and so does WASHING- TON!
Still deaf to mild entreaties---still blind to England's good, You have for thirty pieces---betray'd your country's blood; Like Æsop's greedy Cur, you'll gain a shadow for your bone, Yet find us fearful shades indeed, inspir'd by WASHINGTON!
Mysterious! unexampled! incomprehensible! The blundering schemes of Britain, their folly, pride, and zeal! Like lions how ye growl, and threat! mere asses have ye shewn, And ye shall share an ass's fate, and drudge for WASHING- TON!
Your dark, unfathom'd councils---our weakest heads defeat, Our children rout your armies---our boats destroy your fleet! And to complete the dire disgrace, coop'd up within a town, You live the scorn of all our host! the slaves of WASHING- TON!
Great Heav'n! is this the nation---whose thund'ring arms were hurl'd Thro' Europe, Afric, India? Whose navy rul'd a world? The lustre of your former deeds---whose ages of renown Lost! in a moment---or transfer'd to US and WASHINGTON.
Yet think not thirst of glory---unsheaths our vengeful swords, To rend your bands asunder---and cast way your cords--- 'Tis Heav'n-born FREEDOM fires us all---and strengthen each brave son
From him who humbly guides the plough to god-like WAH- INGTON!
FOR THIS---O could our wishes---your ancient rage inspire! Your armies should be doubled---in numbers, force, and fire! Then might the glorious conflict prove, which best deserved the boon
AMERICA or ALBION---a GEORGE or WASHINGTON! Fir'd with the great idea---our father's shades would rise! To view the stern contention---the Gods desert their skies--- And Wolfe, and hosts of heroes, superior, bending down--- Cry out, with eager transport---Well done, brave WASHING- TON!
Should GEORGE, too choice of Britons---to foreign realms apply--- And madly arm half Europe---yet still we could defy Turk, Russian, Jew, and Infidel, or all those pow'rs in one--- While HANCOCK crowns our Senate---our Camp great WASHINGTON.
Tho' warlike weapons fail'd us---disdaining slavish fears--- To swords we'd beat our plough-shares---our pruning hooks to spears--- And rush all desp'rate! on our foe! nor breathe till battle won; Then shout and shout, AMERICA! and conqu'ring WASH- INGTON!
Proud France should view with terror---and haughty Spain should fear--- While ev'ry warlike nation---would court alliance here--- And GEORGE, his minions trembling round, dismounted from his Throne, Pay homage to AMERICA and glorious WASHINGTON.
As a proof, amongst many others, how much Princes are kept in the dark, relative to the real state of their affairs, the following anecdote will evince. When the Portuguese, in the year 1640 threw off the Spanish yoke, and elected the Duke of Braganza, their King, by the title of John the IV. the Spanish Minister, Olivarez, introduced the intelligence to his master, Philip IV. by wishing him joy of the disturbances created in Port- ugal by the Duke of Braganza; "for (says he) as soon as ever this rebellion is crushed, your Majesty will have an opportunity of getting at the Duke's coffers, which are immense. This piece of joyful news, however, turned out quite the reverse, as the Duke not only kept his money for himself, but was the cause of dismembering the kingdom of Portugal from Spain to this very hour."
hour.
WILLIAMSBURG, Feb. 24.
GENERAL Clinton and Lord Percy are arrived in Hampton road, in the Mercury; it is reported they have with them the grenadier and light-infantry companies of four regiments, amounting to about 600 men, but have not landed them.
If the General has an intention, as some think, of striking a blow in this colony, he certainly expects a reinforcement from England, and that must be a large one too; otherwise, he will hardly be able to penetrate this length, and to hold it for any space of time.
There are now six King's ships within the capes, and most of the shipping under their protection have moved out of the har- bour of Norfolk into the road.
We are informed, that on Monday last the Hon. Richard Cor- bin, Esq; came to this city, and the next day, with the entire approbation of the Committee of Safety, continued his journey to Norfolk, with intention to go on board the Dunmore, to have a conference with Lord Dunmore on the subject of a letter his Lord- ship had written to Col. Corbin, containing some propositions to negotiate an accommodation with Great Britain; and to receive let- ters which had come from London, and were to be delivered into his own hands.
Governor Martin has prevailed upon a set of men in North Carolina to assemble in arms against liberty.
Extract of a letter from a Gentleman at PHILADELPHIA, Febru- ary 5, 1776.
"Our troops in Canada keep the field; the inhabitants are on our side, and we have agreed to raise two battalions of Canadians, and to send nine of the United Colonies. Our ports probably will be opened the first day of March. We continue to intercept the transports carrying provisions to Boston, which has distressed our enemies there very much. The Congress have resolved to erect a monument to the memory of General Montgomery of the price of 300l. sterling, as a tribute to his merit."
NORTHAMPTON, Feb. 10. Lately departed this life, in Gloucester county, MATTHEW DONOVAN, Esq; Major to the 9th regiment. In this Gentleman every virtue seemed to conspire to set him up as a pattern for universal imitation. Nature endowed him with a liberal heart, and Heaven bestowed on him means to exercise his liberality. His sentiments, concerning civil and reli- gious liberty, were clear, uniform, and consistent. An inflexible regard to justice manifested itself in every part of his conduct. But these awful virtues were tempered with the amiable ones of compassion, humanity, and universal benevolence. Prudence guided every action of his life, and blessed with an uncommon strength of mind, the happy result of unaffected piety, and un- bounded confidence in the Supreme Being, he supported the pain- ful lingering approach, and all the terrors of death, with forti- tude and resignation, and looked forward with joy to the glorious prospect of being soon united to his Saviour and his God.
Eheu! fugaces ---, Labuntur anni; nec pietas moram Rugis, & instanti senectae Aferet, indomiteque morti.
HOR. Odes, lib. 2, Ode 14.
How swiftly glide our flying years! Alas! nor piety, nor tears Can stop the fleeting day: Deep furrow'd wrinkles, posting age, And death's unconquerable rage, Are strangers to delay.
FRAN. HOR. What though, lamented man, thy pains were great, Great is thy glory now, and bliss complete: And while the world deplores thy early fall, Thy bright example shall inspire us all; Shall teach us, while we catch thy virtue's fire, Belov'd like thee to live, like thee expire.
Advertisements.
WARWICK, February 20, 1776.
I PURPOSE leaving the Colony soon.
Those to whom I am indebted, or who have any Demands against Archibald Lundie, are desired to apply for Payment. Mr. Michael Coulter, at this Place, will satisfy those who may not make Application before I go; and Mr. Samuel Burks in Prince Edward will pay any Thing that may be due by Mess. James and Robert Donald and Company. ROBERT DONALD.
To be SOLD, or RENTED,
A TRACT of LAND in Mecklenburg, on the Branches of Bluestone Creek and Roanoke River; it contains between six and seven Hundred Acres of very good high Lands, with a good Plantation and several Houses thereon, which was occupied last Year by Mr. Thacker Burwell. For Terms apply to Mr. Samuel Burks in Prince Edward.
WARWICK, Feb. 21, 1776. ROBERT DONALD.
ALL Persons who have any Demands
against the Estate of John Tabb, late Clerk of Mecklenburg, deceased, are desired to bring in their Accounts properly proved; and those indebted to the said Estate are requested to make imme- diate Payment to
MARY TABB, } Administrators. NOAH DORTEL, }
WARWICK, February 20, 1776.
I purpose leaving the Colony
some Time in March. JOHN MURCHIE.
WARWICK, February 20, 1776.
I purpose leaving the Colony
some Time in March. DAVID PAGAN.
LUNENBURG, Feb. 20, 1776.
THIS is to give Notice, that the FUL-
LING MILL, lately erected near the Glebe in this Coun- ty, is now in Order for Work. Those who send Cloth to it may depend upon its being fulled, &c. in the best Manner, and upon the most reasonable Terms. But as the Undertaking has been expensive, it is expected that the Money will be paid before the Cloth is delivered. WILLIAM LEWIS, Fuller.
ALL Persons indebted to the Estate of
Daniel Baxter, deceased, by Bond or otherwise, are desired to discharge the same immediately.
For SALE, by the Printers,
FINE polished Steel INSTRUMENTS, with Ivory Handles, for drawing Teeth, also Temple Spectacles, with double and single Joints.
KING WILLIAM, February 12, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony
immediately. (1||) WILLIAM FAIRLIE.
To be SOLD to the highest Bidders, on Wednesday the 6th of March, at the late Dwelling House of ALEXANDER CRAIG, deceased, in Williamsburg.
ALL his Stock in Trade, consisting of
Saddlery and Harness Furniture, &c. also a Cart and Horses, several Cows, and some Household Furniture. Six Months Credit will be allowed for all Sums above £1. Bond and approved Security will be required.---All Persons indebted to the Deceased are requested to make immediate Payment; and those who have any Demands will make them known, to
JOHN M. GALT, GABRIEL MAUPIN, } Executors.
FOR SALE,
THREE Tracts of LAND, viz. One Tract containing 200 Acres, pleasantly situated on Pamunkey River, in New Kent County, whereon is a Dwelling-House with two Rooms above and two below, a Brick Cellar under it, a Kitchen with two Brick Fire-Places, and some other Houses. Also a Tract in the same County, about two miles from the former, containing 150 Acres, with some small Improvements on it. The other Tract lies on Diascun Creek, in the upper Part of James City County, contains 215 Acres, with a small Plantation, and a great Quantity of Tim- ber. The Terms may be known by applying to the Subscriber, in New Kent. (4) B. DANDRIDGE.
Halifax County, North Carolina, Feb. 16, 1776.
WE the Subscribers intend to leave the Province, for Great Britain, im- mediately.
JOHN SMYTHE. JAMES HAMILTON. JAMES MURRAY. PETER MAXWELL.
TO BE SOLD,
TWO Tracts of LAND in Bedford County, about 16 Miles above the Courthouse, one of which lies on the south Side of Goose Creek, and contains 800 Acres of Woodland; the other Tract lies on the north Side of said Creek, opposite, and contains about 1800 Acres, whereon is a good Plantation, with a young Peach and Apple Orchard, and every other Conveniency for Cropping. This Land is bounded by the Mountains, lies level, is well timbered, and clear of Stone. If required, I would allow long Credit to any Person wanting to purchase. The Land may be seen, and Terms known, by applying to the Subscriber, near the aforesaid Courthouse. (||) ROBERT COWAN.
TO BE LET,
And entered on immediately, for any Term not exceeding five Years,
THE DWELLING-HOUSE wherein
Mrs. Elizabeth Wallace now lives, situated in the main Street in the Town of Edenton, with or without a good Store thereunto adjoining, and a Warehouse behind the same. The Dwelling-House contains four Rooms below, three of which have Fire-Places, and a good Garden and Appurtenances. The House was formerly a well accustomed Tavern, and may still be made Use of for that Purpose, being the nearest to the Courthouse of any in Edenton; or it would suit a Merchant very well. For fur- ther Particulars, inquire of the Subscriber, on the Premises. ELIZABETH WALLACE.
N. B. Any Person inclinable to keep a Tavern may furnish himself at private Sale with all necessary Furniture for that Pur- pose, by applying as above.
To be SOLD, or RENTED for one or more Years, and may be entered on immediately.
A PLANTATION in CUMBERLAND
County, sufficient to work four or five Hands, with a good Dwelling-House that has four Rooms below and four above, with other necessary Houses. Any Person inclinable to purchase, or rent, are desired to apply to me, near the Forks of Guinea Road, in the said County.
WILLIAM HOBSON.
THE SCHOONER
REBECCA,
JOHN HARVEY Commander,
NOW lying in Wycomico, near the Mouth of Potomac River, well fitted, will take in Passengers for any Part of BRITAIN, and will sail by the Middle of April. She will be pre- pared to receive conveniently 25 Passengers. Those inclinable to go had better make Application as soon as possible, either to Mr. Thomas Reid of Northumberland, or to the Captain on Board the said Schooner. Each Passenger to pay twenty Guineas, and find his own Bedding.
TAPPANHANNOCK, February 17, 1776.
WANTED IMMEDIATELY, to succeed
John Whitlock in the Tavern kept by him, a Man bred to that Business, to whom good Encouragement will be given by the Subscriber. None but such as come well recommended for Ho- nesty, Sobriety, Industry, and Compliance, need to apply. A single Man would be acceptable, but a Man who has a careful Wife, that will not think it below her Dignity to superintend the Affairs of the Kitchen and Bed-Chambers, even if there be a Child or two, will be no unsurmountable Objection.
ARCHIBALD RITCHIE.
PORTSMOUTH, February 3, 1776.
I intend to leave the Colony
immediately. JOHN JOHNSON.
RUN away from the Subscriber, in New
Kent County, on Sunday the 18th Instant (February) an indentured English Servant Man named JOHN SOLE, about nine- teen Years of Age, by Trade a Shoemaker, is a short well set young Man, has a fair Complexion, full Face, black Hair gene- rally tied behind, and talks very broad; had on, when he went away, a Snuff coloured Coating Coat, a large blue Duffel Waist- coat, a Shirt of Virginia Cotton, and Thread Virginia Cloth Breeches. He may be suspected to have forged himself a Discharge. Whoever will secure the aforesaid Servant in any public Gaol, or deliver him to me in the said County, near Providence Forge, shall have 40s. Reward, besides what the Law allows, from JOHN APPERSON.
STRAYED, or STOLEN, from Capt.
Bujord's Company at Hampton, about the Middle of last De- cember, a BAY GELDING about 15 1/2 Hands high, has a Star in his Forehead, his hind Feet white, and a few white Hairs on his Flank, without any Brand. Whoever brings him to me, in Williamsburg, shall be well rewarded.
JOHN H. NORTON.

POETS CORNER.
A THUNDER STORM. SAD sick'ning scene! Creation's light Behind yon sable shroud retires; Gives Heav'n the wrinkled brow of night, Ere day, with hoary age, expires. From east to west, in dread array, The clouds, commission'd from on high, Great nature's hollow'd soul obey, And gloom the concave of the sky. Forewarn'd by instinct's tender care, Her plummy pupils check their strains, To shelt'ring thickets strait repair, Depopulating distant plains. The mutt'ring thunder strikes alarm, The clouds big signs of sorrow weep: To reach the neighb'ring friendly farm, The fear-struck shepherd quits his sheep. To wake the sinner's sleepy soul, The vivid flashes ghastly glare; Long peels of rattling thunder roll, And shake the tempest-troubled air. Now rushing cataracts descend, To calm the elemental fray; The golden sheaves of harvest bend, And fruits in rich confusion lay. The pool expands his narrow space, With circling surface swiftly swells; O'erflows its native pebbly vase, And thro' the mead with rage impels. See, see! yon ivy-mantled oak, Like some gigantic hero fall; Nor waits the woodman's wearied stroke, But shiv'ring sheaths the flying ball. And hark! that voice arrests my ears, When first proclaim'd th' Almighty will: From chaos call'd the sparkling spheres, The oracle of Sinai's hill. To me it speaks, a breathing dust, Invites my heart, entomb'd in sin, To seek the portion of the just, And wreaths of deathless laurels win. And shall I not the call obey? Shall mornless night my soul confound? O God! strike terror deep to day, While Heav'n and mercy's to be found. So, when the death-dethroning peal Shall summon nature to her tomb, May thou affix salvation's seal, And snatch me from the sinner's doom.
Williamsburg, Feb. 16, 1776. READY Money, and a good Price, will be given for a likely young BAY HORSE about 15 Hands high. Inquire of the Printer.
TO BE SOLD, THE remaining Part of a TRACT of LAND in Louisa, containing 672 Acres, belonging to the Estate of Mr. Francis Smith, deceased, and formerly advertised by me, with a particular Description of the same. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed the Purchaser, upon giving Bond and Security to THOMAS SMITH, Executor.
SUFFOLK, February 12, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately, and return soon. JAMES LANGSTON.
TO BE SOLD, SUNDRY useful Pieces of FAMILY PLATE; also a fashionable CHARIOT, with four Harness, lately imported, and but little used. Champion Travels, Esq; will shew the Plate, inform where the Chariot may be seen, and agree on the Terms.
PETERSBURG, February 5, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (2) EMANUEL WALKER.
ROCKINGHAM, A FINE bay Horse, 16 Hands high, and well proportioned, will stand at Capt. William Denison's on Cypress Creek, in the lower End of Bute County, to cover Mares at 3l. the Season, or 30s. the Leap, Virginia Money. If Gentlemen will pay by the first of October, I will take 40s. the Season, and 20s. the Leap. Capt. Denison has good Pasturage for the Mares, and good Entertainment for Gentlemen gratis, and will use his utmost Endeavours to prevent any Mares getting away; but I will not be liable for any that may get away. ROCKINGHAM was got by PARTNER, upon an imported Mare belonging to Colonel Thomas Nelson, called BLOSSOM. PARTNER was got by the old English Horse TRAVELLER, upon an imported running Mare SELIMA. BLOSSOM was got by old SLOE, a famous King's Plate Horse; her Dam was a Mare belonging to Lord Rockingham, that won the King's Plate of a Hundred Guineas for five Years old Mares at Hambleton, in Yorkshire, and was got by REGULUS, the Sire of FEARNOUGHT. (11)
WESTMORELAND, February 6, 1776. We intend to leave the Colony in a short Time. PATRICK BALLANTINE. WILLIAM KEIR. HUGH BALLANTINE.
TO BE SOLD, THE PLANTATION where I now live, containing 320 Acres of Land, situated about three Miles above Petersburg, whereon is a large new Brick Dwelling-House 54 Feet by 32, with four Rooms and a flush Passage below Stairs, and five Rooms above, very commodiously contrived, and the Building well executed; a Brick Kitchen 32 Feet by 16, two Rooms below and two above Stairs, with all other necessary Offices in good Repair, and several Orchards of the best Kinds of Fruit Trees. This Seat being well known, I think a more accurate Description unnecessary. The Time of Payment will be made easy to the Purchaser, and the Terms known by applying to Mr. Thomas Ruffin, or ROBERT NEWSUM.
PETERSBURG, February 6, 1776. THE Subscriber intending to leave this Colony for some Time, those who have any Demands against him will please to make them known, and those who have open Accounts on his Books it will be obliging if they will come and have them adjusted. At this Time it may not be in every Person's Power to pay, but it is surely in their Power to settle and ascertain the Balance by Bond or Note of Hand. WILLIAM BEATTIE.
GOOD OLD SPIRITS, TO be sold by the Barrel, by the Subscriber, at Mr. Edward Stabler's, in Petersburg, for ready Money only. JOSEPH WHITEHEAD.
NANSEMOND, February 12, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (||) ANTHONY ROXBURGH.
ESSEX, February 7, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (||) JOHN REID.
SPOTSYLVANIA, February 10, 1776. TAKEN up, at Fredericksburg, a Negro Fellow about 30 Years of Age, 5 Feet 9 or 10 Inches high, pretends to be free, says he served his Time with Seymour Scott in Prince Edward, and that he is a Shoemaker by Trade.—He goes by the Name of John Savage. JOHN HAZLEGROVE.
WILLIAMSBURG, February 2, 1776. THE Subscriber intends moving up to Fredericksburg, where he will carry on the STOCKING-MAKING BUSINESS to a greater Extent than formerly. He will be much obliged to those who please to favour him with their Custom, and makes no Doubt but his Work will meet with the Approbation of the Public, for which he will expect READY MONEY. ADAM ALLAN.
MANCHESTER, Jan. 30, 1776. We intend to leave the Colony soon. JAMES WALLACE. ALLAN CAMERON.
FALMOUTH, January 31, 1776. THE Subscriber intending to leave the Colony early in the Spring, and being desirous to have every Account upon his Books properly adjusted before that time, earnestly entreats all Persons who have had Dealings with him, or his Predecessors, on Account of Messrs. Bogle, Somervell, and Co. merchants of Glasgow, at their Store in this Place, to come and settle them as soon as possible, that no Dispute may hereafter arise. GEORGE HAMILTON.
FREDERICKSBURG, Jan. 30, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony soon. (||) WILLIAM REID.
NORTHUMBERLAND, February 4, 1776. THE Subscriber proposes leaving the Colony soon, and requests those whose Accounts stand open on Messrs. McCall, Dennistoun, and Company's Books, kept by him, to make immediate Settlements, that no Disputes may arise in his Absence. He has for Sale about 350l. Sterling Worth of GOODS, which he will sell on reasonable Terms for ready Money, or upon Credit. THOMAS REID.
FREDERICKSBURG, February 1, 1776. I INTEND TO LONDON in a very short Time, and have appointed Mr. James Somerville, Merchant of this Place, my lawful Attorney, properly authorized to receive and discharge all Debts due to me; and I beg that all those who are indebted to my Store will pay the same, with all convenient Speed, to the said Mr. Somerville; and all those who are indebted by Notes, or open Accounts, are requested to come and pay, or reduce them into Bonds till it is more convenient to discharge them. Take Notice, I am the Principal for whom the late George Mitchell was Factor many Years. ROBERT JARDINE.
CULPEPER, January 22, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony immediately. (||) ROBERT BOYD.
FEARNOUGHT, A FINE bay Colt, about 15 Hands 3 Inches high, 3 Years old the 6th Day of June next, well marked, and as handsome as any Horse in America, will stand at the Subscriber's, near Bute Courthouse, in North Carolina, to cover Mares at 5l. the Season, or 40s. the Leap, Virginia Money. As I am under an Obligation to pay 250l. for this Horse next October, and the October following the like Sum, if Gentlemen who put Mares will pay by the first Day of October next, I will take 3l. 10s. for the Season, and 30s. for the Leap. I have very fine Wheat Pastures for the Mares, and will take all the Care of them in my Power, but not be liable for any that may get away. JOHN WILLIS.
FEARNOUGHT was got by old FEARNOUGHT, upon an imported Mare belonging to Col. Thomas Nelson, called BLOSSOM. BLOSSOM was got by old SLOE, a famous King's Plate Horse; her Dam was a Mare belonging to Lord Rockingham, that won the King's Plate of a Hundred Guineas for five Years old Mares, at Hambleton, in Yorkshire, and was got by REGULUS, the Sire of FEARNOUGHT.
TO BE SOLD At BLANDFORD, on FRIDAY the 1st of MARCH next, to the highest Bidders,
ELEVEN valuable NEGRO FELLOWS, among whom is a very good Ship Carpenter. Also two CSHOONER FLATS, one 85, the other 70 Hogheads Burthen, with their BOATS, and two smaller FLATS Burthen 35 and 32 Hogheads. Twelve Months Credit will be allowed the Purchasers, on giving Bond, with approved Security, to THOMAS CRAWFORD. JOSHUA POYTHRESS, Jun.
LOUISA, February 1, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony soon. (||) JOHN M'GILL.
TAKEN up, in Petersburg, some Time in November last, two COWS, one red, about 5 Years old, with Calf, marked with a Swallowfork in the right, and an Overkeel in the left Ear; the other is red and white, about 4 Years old, has a young Calf, and is marked as the aforesaid. Posted, and appraised to 5l. WILLIAM SKINNER.
WILLIAMSBURG, February 9, 1776. I intend to leave the Colony CHARLES ALEXANDER.
A CATALOGUE OF BOOKS FOR SALE
By DIXON & HUNTER, at a low Advance, FOR READY MONEY.
FOLIOS. CHAMBERS's Dictionary of Arts and Sciences, 2 V. Jacob's new Law Dictionary. L'Estrange's Josephus. Laws of Virginia.
QUARTOS. Astruc on the Venereal Disease. Blackstone's Commentaries on the Laws of England, 4 V. Boyer's French and English, and English and French, Dictionary. Complete Farmer; being a general Dictionary of Husbandry in all its Branches. Priestley on Electricity. England's Bloody Tribunal, or Popish Cruelty displayed. Foster's Discourses on all the principal Branches of natural Religion and social Life, 2 V. Hedrick's Greek Lexicon. Kenrick's new Dictionary of the English Language. Lucani Pharsalia. Life of Edward Lord Herbert of Cherbury, written by himself. Pope's Works, 5 V. Preacher's Directory, or a Series of Subjects proper for public Discourses. Warden's System of Revealed Religion. Young's Experimental Agriculture, 2 V.
OCTAVOS. Astruc on Midwifery. Alexander's Experimental Essays. Adanson's Voyage to Senegal, the Isle of Goree, and the River Gambia. Addison's Miscellaneous Works in Prose and Verse, 4 V. An Account of the Spanish Settlements in America. Burn's Justice of the Peace, 4 V. Buchan's Family Physician. Brookes's Practice of Physic, 2 V. Buchanan's History of Scotland, 2 V. Broughton on the Nature and Circumstances of the Life to come. Ball's Practice of Physic. Bradley on Husbandry and Gardening. Book of Martyrs, or the History of Paganism and Popery. Beattie on the Nature and Immutability of Truth. Isocrates, 2 V. Callender's Voyages to the southern Hemisphere, 3 V. Charlevoix' History of Paraguay, 2 V. Cranz' History of Greenland, containing a Description of the Country and its Inhabitants, 2 V. Delaney's Life of David King of Israel, 2 V. Drelincourt's Defence against the Fears of Death. Duhamel's Elements of Agriculture, revised by P. Miller, 2 V. Dialogues of the Dead. Ditton's Discourse concerning the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Dialogues between a Pilgrim, Adam, Noah, &c. containing the History of the Bible and the Jews. Duclo's History of Lewis XI. King of France, 2 V. Every Man his own Lawyer. Essay on the Nature and Conduct of the Passions and Affections. Emerison's Astronomy.—Do. Fluxions.—Do. Arithmetic. Elements of Optics. Essays selected from the Encyclopedy. Edinburgh Dispensatory. Fenning's English Dictionary. Frevall on the Character of true Christian Charity displayed. Fraser's History of Kouli Khan, present Emperor of Persia. Gillie's Devotional Exercises on the New Testament. Gordon's Universal Accountant and Complete Merchant, 2 V. General Compiling-House, and Man of Business. Glass's Art of Cookery made plain and easy. Galt's Rudiments of the Grecian History, from the first Establishment of the States of Greece. Guthrie's geographical, historical, and commercial Grammar, and present State of the several Kingdoms of the World. Gibson on the Diseases of Horses, 2 V. Gregory's Treatise of Practical Geometry. Harmonia Sacra, or a choice Collection of Psalm & Hymn Tunes. Hall's Contemplations on the historical Passages of the Old and New Testament, 3 V. Hutchinson's Xenophon. Hill's Family Herbal.—Do. Arithmetic. Hammond's historical Narration of the whole Bible. Hutchinson's Inquiry into the Original of our Ideas of Beauty and Virtue. History of the Island of St. Kilda. Harte's History of Gustavus Adolphus King of Sweden, surnamed the Great, 2 V. Howell's History of the Old and New Testament, in which are inserted the Occurrences that happened during the Space of about four Hundred Years from the Days of the Prophet Malachi to the Birth of our blessed Saviour, 3 V. Howell's Familiar Letters, domestic and foreign. History of the Islands of Cape Breton and St. John. Harris's Treatise of the acute Diseases of Infants. Hume's Essays on several Subjects, 2 V. Johnson and Steven's Shakespeare, with Correction and Illustrations of various Commentators, 10 V. Johnson's English Dictionary, 2 V. Jenty's Course of Anatomico Physiological Lectures on the Human Structure and animal Economy, 3 V. Keill's Astronomical Lectures, read in the Astronomical School of the University of Oxford. Kennett's Antiquities of Rome. Langhorne's Translation of Plutarch's Lives, 6 V. Locke's Essay on the Human Understanding, 2 V. on the Conduct of Understanding. Lord Bacon's Letters, Speeches, Charges, Advices, &c. Ledran's Observations and Operations in Surgery. Letters from a Gentleman in the North of Scotland to his Friend in London, giving an Account of the Manners and Customs of the Highlanders, &c. 2 V. Miller's Gardeners Kalender, directing what Works are necessary to be performed every Month. Moss on Gauging.