The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1773-04-15 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
Open to ALL PARTIES,
but influenced by NONE.
Essex, March 6, 1773.
To the Right Honourable the EARL of DUNMORE, &c. &c.
MY LORD,
I T hath always been my opinion that those laws which are the pillars of society are never more in danger of being totally subverted than when those persons entrusted with their support are, by a licentious use of liberty, insulted, and their reputations blasted, by every malevolent, petulant, and vain bystander, who shall differ from them in, or be displeased with, their opinions. Such conduct, my Lord, will never proceed from a regard either to justice or humanity, and, if permitted, would surely be productive of anarchy, since, that only would be thought a legal redress of injuries which might suit with the malevolence or violence of mens tempers.
The liberty of the subject, my Lord, can be secured only by an impartial administration of justice, and a due exertion of that authority which is derived from the laws. For these ends subordinate Magistrates have been appointed, and are absolutely necessary. Every unwarrantable impeachment of their conduct, therefore, being a perversion of justice, is an high insult to authority, and should meet with the severest punishment. It is, indeed, of the utmost importance to society that those appointed to guard the rights and privileges of the subject should be possessed both of integrity and abilities; and these are objects, my Lord, which I doubt not the Supreme Magistrate hath always had under contemplation. To suppose the contrary, but on the most solid grounds, implies a charge, in its very nature, malignant; as it exposes the Supreme Magistrate to the injurious suspicions of the people, and weakens that confidence which should ever subsist between them.
In a free state, my Lord, justice cannot be withheld from the meanest individual. Ignorance and corruption will not fill every department. And in every appeal to the Supreme Magistrate, dictated either by the love of justice, or for the immediate redress of injuries, facts only are required to support it, and the laws, in their ordinary course, are open against the offender. A public appeal, then, to you, my Lord, for justice, is so far injurious, as it implies a denial of it in the ordinary course. But what shall we think of an anonymous address to you, my Lord, in which a neglect of duty in the Supreme Magistrate is implied, the integrity of Judges impeached, and an attempt made, in violation of truth and manliness, to destroy the reputations of individuals, to whom this anonymous writer is an utter stranger?
The liberty of the press is of the utmost consequence in every free state, and the free use of it is essentially necessary for the preservation of the rights of the subject. Every attempt to change the constitution, or infringement of the laws, is an invasion of those rights; but we are bound to pursue those methods which the laws prescribe for redressing grievances, and punishing offences. If the laws are ineffectual for preserving the constitution, or justice is denied to us when legally demanded, our natural rights may then be asserted, the liberty of the press exercised, and every other method which self-preservation shall dictate used, to bring back the constitution to its first principles. This reasoning, my Lord, is founded on the principles of just and impartial liberty, in the full enjoyment of which every subject should remain secure. Need I say, then, my Lord, the address of that anonymous writer who calls himself a TRAVELLER is an unwarrantable use of this liberty, and that he merits the severest punishment for the offence? The law, my Lord, allows no man to be a judge in his own cause, neither does it permit any scandalous reflections upon the determination of Magistrates, although individuals may conceive them erroneous, and themselves injured by them. This would be making every man a judge in his own cause, and consequently subversive of all government. For this reason the law hath taken particular notice of such offences, and generally they have been duly punished. Every scandalous publication also, respecting the conduct or characters of private men, is injurious to liberty, and repugnant to the laws. In a free government that cannot be an offence which is not so constituted by the laws, and those laws are weak indeed which do not affix punishments to crimes. It will not be said, my Lord, that our laws are of this nature, and to enforce a due observance of them I presume a regular and proper method should at all times be pursued. How unjust, then, is every publication of that kind? How injurious to the peace of individuals, and prejudicial to society? The reputation of
innocent men may be entirely destroyed by writers of this stamp, under the specious pretence of lashing the vices of a country, which is too often adopted to gratify a mean malevolence, or authorize an illiberal charge, not sufficiently attested, to warrant a more honourable attack.
I would not, my Lord, have it understood that I have said any thing with a view either to justify or palliate the behaviour of that Magistrate who is accused of having rescued his criminal slave. If he was guilty of the offence he deserves punishment, and the law is open against him. As a court of Oyer and Terminer , I presume we had no right to punish him; and if it was proper for the court, in their ordinary judicial capacity , to punish the offence, I submit it to the Traveller , and the upright and impartial three of the five Judges , to determine why it was not done. To convict the prisoners it required the concurrence of four Judges; but for other purposes three would have been an effectual majority. It is with the utmost deference, my Lord, that I have mentioned the three Judges . With me their characters are respectable; and I should not have done it but with a view to point out the partiality, or, at least, the futility, of that Traveller's observations. They, my Lord, will do me the justice to own that I have no influence upon either the opinions or conduct of Essex court , and that this Traveller is much mistaken in his opinion of my importance: Yet am I charged by this Traveller with being the author not only of the irregular, nay unjust , proceedings of that day, but of all other incident to that court. For, my Lord, I may venture to say that those five Judges have always done, at least, nine parts of ten of the business of that court. Of course, my Lord, it is my baneful influence that permits authority to be shaken, and dignity to be trampled under foot. This Traveller , my Lord, being only a transient person , should have gotten better information of the proceedings in Essex court before he declared them commonly irregular and unjust ; for by that he has taken away all merit from the compliment paid to the upright and impartial three Judges . But I shall leave it to himself to reconcile contradictions.
Yet, my Lord, by the way, I shall observe, with him, that in all courts it requires both sense and spirit to preserve dignity, and keep order. This, my Lord, is principally the province of the President, or Chief Magistrate; and where these are wanting it follows, of course, that disorder will reign.
Judges, my Lord; to support their dignity in court, should take care to preserve it out of court. They should not by a prostitution of themselves give rise to a licentious behaviour of the people, and consequently a want of due respect for the laws, which, when it is really requisite, they find themselves unable to rectify, and unwilling to punish. Thus it is, my Lord, that Judges, appointed to support the authority of the laws, suffer them to be trampled under foot. This observation, my Lord, is not confined to any particular place; but it is the only reason which suggests itself to me as the cause of that disorder which I have observed in all courts wherever I have been. How this abuse is to be rectified is the grand question; and this, my Lord, I shall leave to be determined by that inward shame which every Gentleman in office should feel when he treats with levity the laws of his country, or permits others to trample upon them. It is not in the power of one or two to rectify such abuses.
I shall now, my Lord, proceed to examine those facts which have been adduced to support the charge of corruption against the two Judges . The charge, indeed, is weighty, but the justice of it does not depend on the Traveller's observations. This, my Lord, will require the testimony of a more credible witness. One would imagine that a Traveller , so polite, sensible, candid, and just, and well acquainted with all the rules of decorum, could never have so grossly impeached the integrity of Magistrates, without the best authority to support it; and a mere difference in opinion will by no means support the accusation, or justify his conduct.
Truth, my Lord, requires no embellishment. Art may conceal, but can never give force to it. When facts are mis-recited to justify an assertion it proves that embarrassment of the mind which the want of truth occasions. Hence proceed contradictions, and the place of truth is supplied by invective, the genuine offspring of a malignant heart. The good or ill disposition of this Traveller's heart shall appear only by his own productions. But I will observe to him, my Lord, that it is a sure sign of a bad heart to be inclined to defamation. Justitiae partes sunt, non violare bonorum, verecundias, non offendere.
I will examine, then, my Lord, the offence of the prisoners, and the evidence produced against them at the trial; and for the truth of my relation I shall appeal to every disinterested and candid bystander,—I shall appeal, my Lord, to the three Judges .
For the sake of brevity, and to place this Traveller's judgment in the clearest point of view, it is admitted that by an act of Assembly it is declared, "That if any Negro, Mulatto, or Indian, shall be convicted of feloniously breaking and entering any house in the night time, and taking from thence any goods or chattels to the value of twenty shillings, they shall suffer death without benefit of clergy." The warehouſe, then, of Mr. John Richards having been broke open (as it appeared by the testimony of a storekeeper of said Richards) some time between the months of July and November, and robbed of goods to a considerable amount, a Negro, my Lord (afterwards a witness) having distributed some of the goods, was taken up, on suspicion of the felony. He confessed the fact, and it was asserted in court that it had been suggested to him, at that time, to make a full discovery, and avail himself of his own testimony. Accordingly he impeached several others, who, in consequence thereof, were apprehended in December, and brought to trial.
My Lord, I have the authority of an act of Assembly, which enacts that, on the trial of any slave for a capital offence, the court shall "take for evidence the confession of the offender, the oath of one or more credible witnesses, or such testimony of Negroes, Mulattoes, or Indians, bond or free, with pregnant circumstances, as to them shall seem convincing," and "the offender being by them found guilty," shall "pass such judgment upon such offender as the law directs for the like crimes." The prisoners being arraigned, many of the goods were produced, and the witnesses examined. The Negro who had, when taken, confessed the fact, and impeached the prisoners, was the principal witness. He, indeed, persisted in his charge against the prisoners, and, being a sensible, artful fellow, told a very plausible and circumstantial story. In short, my Lord, he declared them guilty of feloniously breaking and entering the store in the night time, in conjunction with himself, and stealing out of it goods to a considerable amount, more than is required to make the offence capital. Here, my Lord, as a juror, the Traveller found the fact, as a Judge, he determined it felony, and would have pronounced sentence agreeable to law. It does not follow, my Lord, that the court should have done so. As jurors, the court did not find the fact. I, my Lord, was of a different opinion, though at that time no opinion was declared. The nature of evidence, my Lord, is to convince the mind. Mine was not convinced. It did not appear to me, from the examination of all the other witnesses, that there were more than a single circumstance to strengthen the testimony of this witness. An article of the goods was found in the possession of one of the prisoners when he was taken; this, he then declared, he had received from the Negro by whom he was impeached. On the other hand, it was clearly proved, by the other witnesses, that all the goods which were found distributed had come from the hands of this witness. Considering, then, my Lord, the nature of this Negro's evidence (which I own will always have less weight with me than any other, unless well supported by concurring circumstances) and the circumstances arising from the testimony of the other witnesses, his credibility, with me, was lost, and I determined the prisoners not guilty.
This, my Lord, was my opinion, and those were my reasons for it. I gave them in court. If I was wrong I am not yet convinced. I am sure, my Lord, it was an honest opinion, and therefore I submit it to you, and to the public. If it is right it will do no injury; if it is wrong it may be serviceable. Thus, my Lord, were the criminals dismissed, without even the slightest corporal punishment, the evidence not being satisfactory even to a majority of the court.
I should now beg leave, my Lord, to conclude with some observations upon the candour and judgment of this Traveller in reciting and applying my opinion, delivered (as he says) in a most pathetic speech. But I mean not to deal in invective. I have written, my Lord, principally in defence of the court, though, perhaps, no defence is necessary. His reproaches cast upon me are unmerited, and I shall pay a total disregard to them; well knowing that scandal bearers had rather suspend the use of their faculties than apply them to do justice; a due consideration whereof may be singularly serviceable both in preserving the morals, and regulating the manners, of this young TRAVELLER , whose future publications shall pass, by me, unnoticed.— Nil conficere sibi, nulla pullescere culpa.

I now beg pardon, my Lord, for this address to you; being, with the utmost respect, my Lord, your Lordship's obedient servant,
RIWETHER SMITH.
D U B L I N, November 20.
An eminent physician lately paying a visit of civility to a principal family at their country seat was desired by the Lady of the house, and some other persons of fashion then present, to go see the wife of a poor labourer in the village, who had been several hours in travail, and was so ill that her life was despaired of. The doctor obligingly complied with the request, and seeing the case, presently returned, and acquainted the Ladies that the woman was extremely bad, and it was high time she should be delivered. One and all implored him to lend his assistance, but he peremptorily refused to stir without his usual fee of five guineas. His demand surprized the fair ones, and taunts, scolding, and frowns followed. They urged the impossibility of the labourer's being ever able to raise such a sum. No matter; the doctor remained obstinate, and called for his horses. The Ladies finding him about to go, and still desirous to have the sufferer relieved, mustered up the money among them, and gave it to him. He returned with them to the poor object, performed the midwifery operation, waited until her spirits were a little revived, and then going to her bed side, presented her with the gold, saying that now she had need of good nursing, and cordial refreshments, which the guineas would enable her to procure, and that it would have been a kind of cruelty in him to have left her in a more critically dangerous situation than he found her. The whole company saw the propriety of his conduct, and he took his leave amidst a pean of thanks and praises.
ST. VINCENT, February 27.
ON Wednesday the 17th instant a number of Charibs came into the Grand Camp at Macarican, and a TREATY of PEACE and FRIENDSHIP was then concluded by his Excellency General Dalrymple, on the part of his Britannic Majesty, and by the Chiefs of Grand Sable, Massiraca, Rabacca, Maccaricau, Bauara, Coubamaron, Iambou, Colonrie, Camacarabou, Ourawarou, and Espagnol, for themselves and the rest of their people. The articles of which treaty are as follow:
 I. ALL hostile proceedings to cease; a firm and lasting peace and friendship to succeed.  II. The Charibs shall acknowledge his Majesty to be the rightful Sovereign of the island and domain of St. Vincent, take an oath of fidelity to him as their King, promise absolute submission to his will, and lay down their arms.  III. They shall submit themselves to the laws and obedience of his Majesty's government, with power to the Governor to enact further regulations for the public advantage, as shall be convenient. (This article only respects their transactions with his Majesty's subjects, not being Indians, their intercourse and customs with each other, in the quarters allotted them not being affected by it.) And all regulations to receive his Majesty's Governor's approbation before carried into execution.  IV. A portion of lands hereafter mentioned to be allotted for the residence of the Charibs, viz. from the river Bauaran to point Espagnol on the one side, and from the river Analibau to point Espagnol on the other side, according to lines to be drawn by his Majesty's surveyors, from the sources of the rivers to the tops of the mountains; the rest of the lands, formerly inhabited by Charibs, for the future to belong entirely to his Majesty.  V. Those lands not to be alienated, either by sale, lease, or otherwise, but to persons properly authorized by his Majesty to receive them.  VI. Roads, ports, batteries, and communication to be made as his Majesty pleases.  VII. No undue intercourse with the French islands to be allowed.  VIII. Runaway slaves in the possession of the Charibs are to be delivered up, and endeavours used to discover and apprehend the others; and an engagement, in future, not to encourage, receive, or harbour, any slave whatever; forfeiture of lands for harbouring; carrying off the island a capital crime.  IX. Persons guilty of capital crimes against the English are to be delivered up.  X. In time of danger to be aiding and assisting to his Majesty's subjects against their enemies.  XI. The three chains to remain to his Majesty.  XII. All conspiracies and plots against his Majesty, or his government, to be made known to his Governor, or other civil Magistrates.  XIII. Leave (if required) to be given to the Charibs to depart this island, with their families and properties, and assistance in their transportation.  XIV. Deserters from his Majesty's service (if any) and runaway slaves from the French, to be delivered up, in order that they may be returned to their masters.  XV. The Chiefs of the different quarters are to render an account of the names and number of the inhabitants of their respective districts.  XVI. The Chiefs and their Charibs, inhabitants, to attend the Governor, when required for his Majesty's service.  XVII. All possible facility, consistent with the laws of Great Britain, to be afforded to the Charibs in the sale of their produce, and in their trade to the different British islands. 
XVIII. Intire liberty of fishing, as well on the coast of St. Vincent, as well as at the neighbouring keys, to be allowed them.
XIX. In all cases, when the Charibs conceive themselves injured by his Majesty's other subjects or other persons, and are desirous of having reference to the laws, or to the civil Magistrates, an agent, being one of his Majesty's natural born subjects, may be employed by themselves, or, if more agreeable, at his Majesty's cost.
XX. No strangers, or white persons, to be permitted to settle among the Charibs, without permission obtained in writing from the Governor.
XXI. These articles subscribed to and observed, the Charibs are to be rendered, secured, and fixed in their property, according to his Majesty's directions given, and all past offences forgot.
XXII. After the signing of this treaty, should any of the Charibs refuse to observe the condition of it, they are to be considered and treated as enemies by both parties, and the most effectual means used to reduce them.
XXIII. The Charibs shall take the following oath, viz. "We A. B. do swear, in the name of the immortal God, and Christ Jesus, that we will bear true allegiance to his Majesty George the Third, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, and that we will pay due obedience to the laws of Great Britain, and the island of St. Vincent; and will well and truly observe every article of the treaty concluded between his said Majesty and the Charibs; and we do acknowledge that his said Majesty is rightful Lord and Sovereign of all the island of St. Vincent, and that the lands held by us the Charibs are granted through his Majesty's clemency."
On the part of his Majesty, W. DALRYMPLE.
On the part of the Charibs, Jean Baptiste, Dufont Begot, Boyordell, Dirong, Simon, Lalime, senior, Bauamont, Justin Bauamont, Chatoie, Douere Bararamont, Lalime, jun. Broca, Saioe, Francois Laron, St. Laron, Anisette, Clement, Bigott, Matthieu, Jean Louis Pacquin, Gadel Goibau, John Baptiste, Lonon, Boyudon, Du Vallet, Boucharie, Deruba Babilliard, Canaia.
CHARLESTOWN (South Carolina) March 16.
Wednesday last his Excellency the Right Honourable Lord Charles Greville Montagu, Governor in Chief, &c. of this province, with his Lady and family, sailed for Great Britain in his Majesty's packet boat Eagle, Capt. William Nicholls. Upon his Excellency's departure, the administration of the affairs of this government devolves, a fifth time, upon the Honourable William Bull, Esquire, Lieutenant Governor, &c. of this province.
B O S T O N, March 29.
Last Friday, about three o'clock in the afternoon, a fire broke out in the customhouse; but by the timely assistance of the inhabitants of the town a stop was put to its progress before it had done much damage. It is generally thought the fire's not happening in the night has prevented much lying and fallhood. If we may judge from the representations sent home upon other occasions, it would not argue the want of candour to suppose that the commissioners, or some of their tools, would have made a formidable story of it, and influenced the Ministry to believe it was done on purpose, either in testimony of resentment against the customhouse officers, or with a view to a mob-bish scramble for the revenue money, which is so wantonly taken from the colonies, and worse than thrown away. Perhaps some certain persons might have repaired to the castle for fear of their lives, and more regiments wrote for to keep the rebellious town of Boston in good order.
N E W Y O R K, April 5.
Capt. M'Aroy, from St. Vincent, who left it about the 28th of February, advises, that the Charibs a few days before his departure came in, and offered to lay down their arms to General Dalrymple, who refused their submission, until they had delivered up all the runaway Negroes; that a packet had arrived from England with orders to the Commander in Chief to desist from prosecuting the war any further, upon which the troops were ordered to embark by the 25th of March. The 14th regiment for St. Augustine, and the 31st for London; Major Ethrington to remain with the Royal Americans, and a regiment lately from England.
P H I L A D E L P H I A, April 7.
Return of the casualties of the several regiments in St. Vincent, from the time of their taking the field against the Charibbe Indians, in September, 1772, to the conclusion of the campaign, the 20th of February, 1773.
   Lt. Cols. Capt. Subalts. Serj. R. & F. Total.     Killed 1 0 3 3 65 72   Wounded 0 1 1 8 73 83   Deceased 0 1 1 8 100 110   Deserted 0 0 0 0 4 4   Sick 1 5 12 16 394 428   Total 2 7 17 35 636 697  
Lieut. Col. Walsh, of the 31st regiment, killed. Lieut. Darah, 70th regiment, ditto. Lieut. Gower, 14th regiment, ditto. Ensign Mackay, 69th regiment, ditto. Capt. O'Hara, 14th, deceased. Ensign Bruce, 70th, ditto. Captain Stanton, 14th, wounded. Lieutenant Brown, 14th, ditto.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 15.
Died lately at the Honourable Mr. Carter's in Westmoreland county Mr. JAMES MARSHALL, a young Gentleman formerly an usher in the college of William and Mary. That genuine worth, and sentiments of the most unbounded generosity, are not confined to the breasts of the great and opulent alone is evinced by the conduct of a person who with pleasure submitted to an humble employment, that a greater portion of his little patrimony might be spared for the most noble purposes. Delicacy suppresses a narrative of his generous actions, but gratitude will never permit the memory of them to be erased from the breasts of those who have felt their influence.
On the 12th of March died Mr. HENRY MOORE of Colchester, a man eminent for integrity as well as other virtues, and whose memory is revered, and whose death is much lamented, by all honest men within the circle of his friendship or acquaintance.
On the 8th instant came on the election for a Burgess for the county of Frederick, in the room of Mr. Robert Rutherford, when the poll stood thus:
   For Mr. Isaac Zeene 273   For Mr. Robert Wood 81  
Majority in favour of Mr. Zeene 192 Mr. Charles Carter is elected for Stafford.
There is at Ditchley, the seat of the Earl of Litchfield, the picture of a DOG, who got into the chamber of a son of the then Lord, and could by no means be driven out; the young Gentleman therefore suffered him to remain, and went to bed. In the night a man entered the room, upon whom the dog seized, and kept him till help arrived: This man proved to be the butler, who confessed his intention of murdering his master, and robbing the house.
WESTMORELAND, March 23, 1773.
AN advertisement some time ago published by Mr. Richard Hanfon, attorney for Mr. Lyonel Lyde, informing the public that several Negroes by me advertised for sale, as the estate of Mr. John Monroe, deceased, had been mortgaged by Col. Andrew Monroe to the said Lyonel Lyde, to secure the payment of a very considerable sum of money, gave me the first information of that transaction; since which I thought it incumbent on me, as well to justify my own conduct as to prevent any uneasiness in the purchasers of these slaves, to make an enquiry into the matter, and I can now, with the greatest certainty, assure them that Col. Andrew Monroe, previous to the mortgage before mentioned, had not only given the slaves aforesaid to his son, the said John Monroe, by a marriage contract, but had also given him up the possession of them, at least twelve months before the execution of the said mortgage. Col. Monroe may have imposed upon Mr. Lyde, but could not thereby affect the title of his son in an estate given to him in the manner aforesaid; and therefore I hope the purchasers will immediately discharge their bonds, which, I presume, some of them have been prevented from doing by Mr. Hanfon's publication.
JOHN ASHTON.
RICHMOND, April 6, 1773.
IMMEDIATELY after the present April General Court I will leave this colony. As there are many debts still due to me, which were contracted when I was formerly in the country, I flatter myself that the several debtors will now think it high time they were discharged. This I request of them as a particular favour. Those who fail complying may be assured that their bonds will, without any further notice, be put into the hands of a lawyer. If there are any demands against me, I beg they may be made known, that they may be instantly discharged.
A. DONALD.
AS I intend for Britain in June, I propose selling, on Monday the 24th of May next, being Frederickburg fair day, or privately, as may be agreed upon before, 400 acres of land upon the Fall Hill, and three miles from Frederickburg, with 20 slaves, flocks of cattle, &c. Also above ten acres of meadow land adjoining the said town of Frederickburg, and the ferry, and ferry lots, together with the store and warehouse thereon, for ready money, bills, or tobacco, as may suit the purchasers. JAMES HUNTER, jun.
WANTED, on charter, for Glasgow, a VESSEL from three to four hundred hogheads of tobacco burthen. For terms apply to Messrs. Lawrence and company, merchants in Norfolk, or the subscriber in Warwick. JOHN LEITCH.
LOST, yesterday, out of the subscriber's pocket, between Warwick town and Williamsburg, a large red leather pocket book, with a slate pencil; there were several bonds, notes of hand, and other papers; also a large letter, covered with brown paper, directed to Col. Edward Carter, and two to Colonel Pendleton, and a patent, in the name of Patrick Vance. Any person who finds the same, and delivers it to Robert Donald, in Warwick, shall have TEN SHILLINGS reward. JOHN ROWLAND.
TAKEN up, in Frederick, a forrel horse, about 6 years old, 13 hands high, branded on the near buttock M, has a star in his forehead, and paces. JAMES HAGAN.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a forrel horse, about 10 years old, 4 feet 8 inches high, branded on the near shoulder C, and on the near buttock P. Posted, and appraised to 10l. 10s. JAMES LAYNE.

To be SOLD, on Friday the 30th instant (April) at five o'clock in the afternoon, before Mr. Southall's door in Williamsburg.
THE dwellinghouse, outhouses, lots, and pasture, where Col. Philip Johnson formerly resided, in this city. The commodiousness of their situation need not be described, as it is so well known. Any person inclining to purchase may, in the mean time, treat with Peyton Randolph and Robert Carter Nicholas, Esquires. The tenement may be entered upon, immediately, and the purchaser will have credit till next Christmas, paying interest from the day of sale, and giving bond, with approved security.
Pursuant to the last will and testament of Mr. John Smith, of Hanover, deceased, will be SOLD, on the premises, some time next fall, and entered on at Christmas.
A VALUABLE tract of LAND lying in Hanover county, on the Brook Swamp, between four and five miles from Richmond, and two miles from the Meadow Bridges, known by the name of Pickenecky, and containing about 200 acres; whereon is an extraordinary piece of dam work, neatly finished, which will effectually keep off the overflowings of the brook from upwards of 100 acres of exceeding rich, well timbered low grounds. Likewise a tract of about 200 acres of very rich, well timbered land, lying in Goochland county, on James river, near the mouth of the Great Bird, and opposite to Elk Island, having on it a plantation in order for working sixteen hands, and the soil is very suitable for tobacco, wheat, and Indian corn. This land will be sold altogether, or in parcels, as may best suit the purchasers. Also the reversion of a tract of about 500 acres of very good tobacco and grain land, lying in Goochland county, on the branches of the Little Bird, contiguous to the lands of Mr. Samuel Gift, at whose death the purchaser will have possession. The lands in Goochland will be shown by Mr. John Ware, near the premises. The days of sale, and time of payment, will be made known in a future advertisement.—All persons indebted to the estate of Mr. John Smith, deceased, are desired to make immediate payment; and those who have any demands against the said estate are requested to make them known to WILLIAM ANDERSON, Executor.
N. B. For the convenience of those who may have accounts to settle with me for transactions had with Mr. Smith, I shall attend at every Hanover court, and the two succeeding days in Hanover town. W. A.
FOR LONDON. THE snow NANCY, RICHARD BARRON, master, burthen about 330 hogheads, lying at Bull Hill, Appomattox river: She will sail by the 10th of May at farthest, and will take in tobacco, on liberty of consignment, at eight pounds sterling per ton. Orders sent to Mr. John King at Petersburg, or the subscriber, shall be attended to. JOHN TABB.
AS the bonds taken by Messrs. Tayloe, Thornton, and Fitzhugh, on account of the estate of Mr. Benjamin Grymes, will be very shortly due, I take this method to inform those whom it may concern that they are put into my hands to collect, for which purpose I will attend at Williamsburg on the 25th of this instant April; and for the convenience of those who may not have business there, I will also attend at Fredericksburg from the 15th to the 18th of April. As those Gentlemen are largely engaged for that estate, I hope all persons indebted, either by bond or account, will be punctual and speedy in their payments, as no indulgence can or will be granted to such as fail. I am desired by the same Gentlemen to request a meeting of Mr. Benjamin Grymes's creditors at Williamsburg on the 27th of April, when a state of their engagements, as well as debts due to them, will be laid before them, in order to see if the whole will pay the trustees; and if so, what will remain for the creditors. ANTHONY THORNTON, jun.
To be SOLD, at public sale, at Culpeper courthouse, on Monday the 17th of May next, A TRACT of LAND whereon I now live, near the Ragged Mountain, containing about 200 acres, on which is a good dwellinghouse 20 feet by 16, a tobacco house, barn, and other outhouses. Also another tract on the Ragged Mountain, containing about 360 acres, which now rents for 1200 weight of tobacco yearly. Credit will be allowed till next April General Court, on giving an approved merchant's note for payment. The above lands are sold to satisfy a debt due to Messrs. Payne, Moor, and company, to whom they are under mortgage. NICHOLAS GREEN.
BALTIMORE, March 24, 1773. THE subscribers give this public notice that they have begun to inoculate, and will continue till the 10th of July. Those who chuse to come are requested to give timely notice, that proper accommodations may be provided for their reception. HENRY STEVENSON. JOHN COULTER.
NONPAREIL stands at my lots in York town, and covers mares at 20 shillings the leap, and 30 shillings the season. He is a fine dark bay, 15 hands and an inch high, is as full blooded as any horse upon the continent, and in the year 1769 he beat Mr. Galloway's famous horse Selim. T. LILLY.
LATELY discovered in the possession of a Negro fellow belonging to me a SILVER WATCH, maker's name William Clayton, London, No. 10,206. He says he won it of a sailor, in the town of Dumfries; about twelve months ago. As I have not the most implicit confidence in him, I give this notice of the matter, that if any one hath a right to the said watch they may apply to the subscriber, near Dumfries, in Prince William county. T. BLACKBURN.
TO BE SOLD,
A TRACT of one thousand acres of LAND, in Orange county, near the courthouse, and about 30 miles from Fredericksburg. The improvements on it are a new, convenient, and elegant, small dwellinghouse, kitchen, barn, and all other necessary buildings, quite new, and in good order. It has a piece of valuable and extraordinary good meadow ground, which, as some part of it is already improved, with little expence might be made to support a very large stock. There is also a constant and plentiful stream running through it. As the land abounds in a great quantity of different kinds of timber, and is convenient to a well settled neighbourhood, it is thought that either a saw or grist mill would be advantageous. The land in general is very level, fit for tobacco, and suitable for farming. Should any person incline to view it, Dr. J. Mariden, who resides on the premises, or Mr. Samuel Thompson, who lives near them, will be kind enough to shew it. The terms, which shall be made in every respect agreeable to the purchaser, may be known by applying to the subscriber, at the Honourable Robert Carter's, at Nomony, in Westmoreland county. J. MARSHALL.
To be LET to the lowest bidder on Monday the 10th of May next, at Richmond county courthouse,
THE building of a brick PRISON for the use of the said county, at which time and place attendance will be given by the Gentlemen commissioners appointed for that purpose. Bond and approved security will be required of the undertaker for his performance. THE SHERIFF.
To be LET, on Monday the 26th instant (April) at the glebe in Fairfax parish, in the county of Fairfax,
THE building sundry houses on the said glebe; viz. one of brick 42 feet by 28 in the clear, a kitchen, meathouse, and dairy, a barn, stable, and some other small houses, all of which are to be framed work; also some paling. They will be put up together, or in two divisions, as may suit the undertakers. A large proportion of the value will be ready to be paid down, in the course of the ensuing summer, the undertakers giving bond, with sufficient security, for due performance. A plan will be produced on the day, and the terms made known, by applying to JOHN DALTON, } Churchwardens. EDWARD DULIN, }
GEORGE the Third, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c. To the sheriff of Frederick county, greeting: We command you to summon Isaac Jackson to appear before the Justices of our said county court in chancery, at the courthouse, on the first Tuesday in April next, to answer a bill in chancery, exhibited against him by Elizabeth Joliffe, executrix, &c of William Joliffe, deceased; and this he shall in no wise omit, under the penalty of 100l. Witness James Keith, clerk of our said court, at the courthouse, the 8th day of April, and in the 13th year of our reign. JAMES KEITH.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Charlotte county, on the 22d of March, a Negro fellow named NED, about 26 years of age, 5 feet 4 or 5 inches high, and well set; had on, and took with him, a Negro cotton jacket and breeches, a pair of blue yarn stockings, a green plains coat, with a piece put in between the shoulders, a pair of brown cloth breeches, and a new felt hat. He generally keeps his head well dressed, has remarkable small legs for the size of his body, walks with his toes much out, and can play on the violin, in which he takes great delight. I imagine he will change his name and dress, and endeavour to pass for a freeman, and try to get into the back parts of Virginia. Whoever secures the said Negro so that I may get him again shall, if taken in Virginia, receive THREE POUNDS, if in North Carolina FIVE POUNDS, and if in South Carolina EIGHT POUNDS. RICHARD GAINES.
THE public is desired to take notice that no assignment of a bond I gave Mr. Benjamin Davis, son of Isaac Davis, Esquire, of Chester county, Pennsylvania, for twenty six pounds fifteen shillings, payable the 25th of December next, of which thirteen shillings only is paid, will be good, as I am determined not to pay the same, being much imposed on in the consideration for which the bond was given. ROBERT GREEN.
IW. No. 132 1124 112 1012 John Withers. IHW. 184 1107 112 995 John Withers. THE above tobacco has remained in Cave's warehouse upwards of three years. The proprietor thereof, John Withers, is desired to take notice that the subscribers intend to proceed to a sale thereof according to law, on Friday the 30th of this instant, April. WILLIAM GARRARD, THOMAS MOUNTJOY.
THE immediate settlement of my affairs being at this time absolutely necessary, all persons indebted to me are requested to be speedy in their payments; and all those who have open accounts are desired to come and settle them, and give bonds, or other specialties, as all accounts that remain unsettled the 1st of May next will be put into suit.—The house and lots where I now live are for sale: They consist of a large dwellinghouse, storehouse, and every other necessary building for a merchant, and a family. The terms may be known by applying to JAMES ROBB.
RUN away from the subscriber, living near Fauquier courthouse, some time in November last, a convict servant man named ELIJAH HILL, about 5 feet 6 inches high, of a dark complexion, much pitted with the smallpox, writes a very good hand, and is an excellent lawyer. It is imagined he took with him a servant lad belonging to Mr. Bennett Price, of said county: The lad is about 18 years old, and of a fair complexion. Whoever apprehends the said Hill so that I get him again shall receive FIVE POUNDS, besides what the law allows. RANDOLPH SPICER.
IN answer to an advertisement, published in the Virginia Gazette last September, signed John Tankerley, a noted ordinary keeper at Charlotte courthouse, wherein he says I had received unlimited credit and the utmost civility from him for upwards of two years, in justice to myself, I think it necessary to inform the public that his assertion is entirely false, as I can positively affirm that I never even saw him but a little better than half that time. He maliciously brought suit against me in Charlotte court, and produced a confused account of ten pounds, although he was sensible that my undisputed account of saddlery against him amounted to near that sum. He says that I took advantage of the act of Assembly provided to prevent frauds of that nature: I confess it; but I can with great truth assure him that such a proceeding would have been very repugnant to my disposition, had I not have been conscious that I had received the most unmerited treatment from him, and therefore I think it incumbent on me to give this public notice of it, that no one, in future, may suffer from a like imposition. SAMUEL HUMPHREYS.
STRAYED, or stolen, on the main road between Gloucester courthouse and Kingston church, a small grey FLYING SQUIRREL, formerly the property of one PHILLIPS, a professor of that grand, noble, and praise-worthy ART, called Legerdemain. The said squirrel, whose loss has put me in the deepest melancholy, was about 3 inches and a half long; had but 4 teeth in the front, and a small piece of red list about his neck, and had a remarkable small nose. Whoever secures the said squirrel in any of his Majesty's gaols shall have FIVE SHILLINGS reward. JOHN BRENON.
N. B. I am greatly apprehensive I shall lose my dear, beloved WIFE, as her grief is almost insupportable on account of this important loss.
TAKEN up, in Culpeper, a small bay mare with a star in her forehead, a hanging mane and sprig tail, and branded on the off buttock W. She had a small bay mare colt by her side. Posted, and appraised, the mare to 4l. 5s. and the colt to 20s. ARJALON PRICE.
TAKEN up, in Prince Edward, three red hogs, two sows and one barrow; one of the sows is marked with a crop and half crop in each ear, and the other with a crop and underkeel in the right ear, and an overkeel and crop in the left; the barrow is marked with a crop and underkeel in the right ear, and a crop, underkeel, and slit, in the left. Posted, and appraised to 2l. 10s. JOHN BIGGER, jun.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a dark brown horse, about 5 or 6 years old, has no perceivable brand, with a hanging mane and switch tail, trots naturally, about 4 feet 8 inches high, has a few white hairs behind his left ear, and a small star in his forehead. ROBERT DINWIDDIE.
TAKEN up, in Amelia, a middle sized sorrel horse, has a blaze face, and a large knot on his nose, and his brand, as well as I can make out, is a dot upon his near shoulder and buttock. Posted, and appraised to 10l. JOHN NORRIS, jun.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a black mare, about 14 or 15 years old, has a star in her forehead, and snip on her nose, trots and paces, has a remarkable white stroke on her right shoulder, some small white spots on her rump, and a long switch tail, but no brand perceivable. Posted, and appraised to 3l. WILLIAM DANIEL.
THREE or FOUR Journeymen Chairmakers WOULD MEET WITH ENCOURAGEMENT, AS ALSO ONE OR TWO APPRENTICES, BY APPLYING TO ELKANAH DEANE; WHO HAS FOR SALE AN ELEGANT PHÆTON and CHAISE.

AS I have been publicly mentioned among the number of persons accused of counterfeiting and passing the treasury notes of this colony, it is necessary the public should have some better testimony of my innocence than can be circulated by those few who are acquainted with the circumstances attending that accusation: For that purpose I shall wait on two Justices of Prince Edward county, at the house of Col. John Nash, senior, on the 24th of April, where all persons who can give evidence or any information tending to promote the suspicion, or confirm the charge, are desired to attend, in order to fix it in a legal manner, or let the reproach fall on the heads of the atrocious villains who could suggest it. This method, disagreeable as it is, my profession and extensive acquaintance require me to take. And that my justification may be as public as the voice of calumny which gave wings to the report, I am determined to take every advantage the law will put in my power against such illiberal and malicious slanderers as may in future presume to propagate any such unjust insinuations to my prejudice, especially those who seem to have no other motive than to bring down every good character to a level with the malignity and corruption of their own hearts. It is expected that all officers of justice, who may have received any informations against me, will think it their duty to transmit them, with their proper vouchers; to which purpose I have previously addressed his Lordship.
MILLER WOODSON.
By the Right Honourable JOHN Earl of DUNMORE, his Majesty's Lieutenant and Governor General of the colony and dominion of Virginia:
A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS I have received information that JOHN FORD, junior, who was committed to the prison of Amelia county on a charge of being concerned in forging several treasury notes of this colony, and passing them, knowing the same to be forged, hath broken the said Prison, and made his escape: To the end therefore that the said John Ford should not, if guilty, escape with impunity, I have thought fit to issue this proclamation, hereby, in his Majesty's name, strictly charging and requiring all sheriffs, constables, and other officers, to make diligent search after the said John Ford, and him having apprehended to carry him before some Justice of the Peace of the county where he shall be taken, to be dealt with according to law; and all his Majesty's liege subjects within this dominion are strictly forbid to entertain, harbour or conceal the said John Ford, as they shall answer the contrary at their peril.
And I do hereby moreover promise a reward of FIFTY POUNDS to the person who shall apprehend and deliver the said John Ford as aforesaid.
Given under my hand, and the seal of the colony, at Williamsburg, this 8th day of April 1773, and in the 13th year of his Majesty's reign. DUNMORE.
GOD SAVE THE KING.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 7, 1773.
THE subscribers being impower'd by a late act of Assembly to contract for the building an addition to the house appropriated to the use of the keeper of the public gaol are ready to receive the proposals of such undertakers as may incline to engage in the work. The addition is to be of brick, thirty one feet in length, and of the same height and width as the present house. RO. C. NICHOLAS, JOHN BLAIR, JOHN TAZEWELL.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 7, 1773.
BEING extremely indisposed, by which I am rendered incapable very frequently of transacting business with people who are inclined to trade with me, I therefore propose taking the following method in order to dispose of the articles under mentioned, the greater part of which have their prices prefixed, and which are as reasonable as I can possibly afford to sell them at:—Two dozen of boys hats at 24s. per dozen; twelve pair of pumps and shoes, bound, at 7s. 6d. per pair; about 200 weight of coffee at 1s. 3d. per pound; 30 weight of chocolate at 1s. 6d. per pound; one barrel of good brown sugar, at 14s. by the quarter, if by the barrel, more reasonable; several casks of very good butter at 1s. by the cask; 17 boxes of good candles, of all sizes, at 11d. per pound by the box; one box of very good soap at 9d. per pound by the box; two boxes of common ditto at 6d. per ditto; salt at 2s. 9d. per bushel; forty yards of sheeting at 1s. 9d. per yard; 35 yards of oznabrigs at 11d. per yard; three dozen of coloured handkerchiefs of different sorts; five dozen of good Madeira wine at 36s. per dozen; several sorts of self and stone ware; some oznabrige shirts; and several other articles too tedious to mention. Any person inclinable to purchase the above articles, on paying interest, may have credit until October next, giving good security.—I have also for sale one dozen of good walnut chairs, two smoking ditto, two square five feet tables, all new. Credit given till October. DANIEL BAXTER.
AS I shall have the most pressing call for money at the meeting of the merchants in April and June next, I hereby inform all persons who are indebted to me for Negroes, as well those which I have sold on commission as those on my own account, that suits will be commenced, without respect of persons, immediately after the Oyer court in June next. I shall take no paper money in payment but on condition that it passes at the treasury.
JOHN HAWKINS.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in Princess Anne county, containing, by estimation, 254 acres, with a good new dwellinghouse with two rooms on the first floor, and a large passage and three rooms above, with all convenient outhouses; there is a remarkable fine apple orchard thereon. The said land is capable of great improvement, and is situated on a creek where is great plenty of fish both summer and winter. Whoever is inclinable to purchase the above will be shewn the same, and may know the terms, by applying to me, on the premises.
ROBERT WILLIAMSON.
THE great COCK MATCH between John Edloe of Charles City, and Frederick Rains of Prince George, will be fought on Tuesday the 27th instant, April, at Avery's ordinary, in Prince George.
GEORGE the Third, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, &c. To the sheriff of Berkeley county, greeting: We command you that you summon David Hunter, Moses Hunter, and Edward Buson, to appear before our Justices of our said county court, at the courthouse of the said county, on the third Tuesday in March next, to answer a bill in chancery, exhibited against them by Samuel Johnson, Esquire; and this they shall in no wise omit, under the penalty of 100l. each; and have then there this writ. Witness William Drew, clerk of our said county court, at the courthouse of the said county, the 24th day of February, in the 13th year of our reign.
WILLIAM DREW.
NANSEMOND, March 31, 1773.
WANTED immediately, on charter, for PORT GLASGOW, a vessel between three and five hundred hogheads. For terms apply to JOHN HAMILTON, and company.
WHEREAS I purchased of Robert Tunstall his undivided part of the land, surveyed for the officers and soldiers late of the Virginia regiment, on the river Ohio, and the branches of the same, which the said Tunstall had in right, as a serjeant in the said regiment, and as the said Robert Tunstall is one of those named in a patent that has since issued for the said land; and whereas I have sold the said undivided right to Mr. Robert Rutherford, this is to forewarn all persons against being imposed by any future purchase from the said Robert Tunstall, or any claiming under him. JOHN CREAGH.
THE badness of the weather preventing the sale of my land, advertised some time ago, I now propose selling it, at public auction, before the Raleigh door, in Williamsburg, on the 3d of May next. The land is pleasantly situated on Mattaponi river, and contains 650 acres by estimation, and 100 acres of marsh on the opposite side of the river. There is on the said land a genteel two story brick house, and offices of brick; likewise a large warehouse 60 by 24, with a brick cellar, and within 30 yards of a wharf where vessels of an hundred tons may load. Any person inclinable to purchase will be shewn the land, and know the terms, by applying to JOHN MEREDITH.
N. B. As the title to the above mentioned land was some time ago in dispute, I think it will not be improper to inform the public that the entail has been broke by act of Assembly, and the Royal assent obtained.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, two mares, the one a black, branded on the near buttock S, has a small star in her forehead, her mane hangs on the right side, about 6 or 7 years old, branded on the near shoulder with something that cannot be made out; the other is a dark bay, with a small star in her forehead, branded on the near buttock R, her mane hangs on the near side, and is about 5 years old. Posted, and appraised to 5l. each.
JOHN CLYBURN.
NOTICE is hereby given that there are now remaining in Osborne's warehouse, Chesterfield county, six hogheads of tobacco, marked as follows, which have been inspected upwards of three years.
   No. Gross. Tare. Nett.     16 1195 131 1064 W. Crouder's note out.   72 1300 154 1146 John Calwell.   125 1157 134 1023 Thomas Jackson.   1339 1384 136 1248 Marked I. E. C.   1380 918 111 807 William Farley, sen.   2136 1250 123 1127 R. Ellett, P. Edward.  
NORFOLK, March 3, 1773.
OLD LISBON and low priced WHITE WINES, LOAF SUGAR, and a few WHEAT FANS, to be sold by HARMANSON & HARVEY.
FORTY DOLLARS REWARD. RUN away from the subscriber, living in Westmoreland, the 12th of August last, an Irish convict servant man named MATTHEW THARP, by trade a gardener, about 5 feet 5 inches high, well made, much pitted with the smallpox, has short dark hair, but generally wears a dark wig over it clubbed, had on, and took with him, a pair of leather breeches, light coloured cloth coat, old striped jacket, several white and oznabrige shirts, one check ditto, an old brown holland coat, striped holland trowsers much stained, shoes and stockings of many sorts, a hat almost new, with a band and buckle. This fellow was convicted, last June Oyer court was a twelve-month, for horsestealing. Whoever will secure him in any of his Majesty's gaols, so that I get him, shall receive the above reward. I have been credibly informed that some time after the said Tharp eloped, he went down to Williamsburg, and applied to John Randolph, Esquire, for a pass, which he obtained, JOSEPH PEIRCE.
TAKEN up, in Albemarle, a small grey mare, about 4 feet 2 inches high, branded on the near buttock, has a wart on her right ear, her hind feet are white, has a hanging mane and tail, trots altogether, and is about 5 years old. Posted, and appraised to 4l. EDWARD BARBER.
FOR SALE,
THE plantation whereon the subscriber lives, in King and Queen, about a mile and a half from Todd's warehouse, containing 657 acres, in good order for cropping, with a large peach and apple orchard thereon beginning to bear, and a quantity of low grounds, which may be made good meadow with very little expence. The dwellinghouse, kitchen, and other outhouses, have been built between four and five years. Any person inclinable to purchase may know the terms by applying to ROBINSON DAINGERFIELD.
RUN away from Eltham, on Sunday the 10th of January, a light Mulatto fellow named OTHO, about 5 feet 9 inches high, freckled in the face, has light grey eyes, and brown hair, which he wears tied behind, his skin under his clothes is very white, and had on, when he went away, a blue cloth waistcoat, and a coat of the same, with a red velvet cape. I expect he will endeavour to pass for a white man. All masters of vessels are forewarned from harbouring or carrying the said slave off at their peril. I will give FIVE POUNDS to any person who will deliver him to me, or secure him in any gaol, and give notice thereof. BURWELL BASSETT.
FREDERICKSBURG, February 24, 1773.
WHEREAS some of those indebted on the books here have not paid due regard to my advertisement of the 1st of December last, I give them this last notice that all and every account not paid off, or a good part of it, before the 20th of April, or our May fair at farthest, or settled by bond, or other specialty, before that time, will most certainly be put into the hands of a lawyer, without respect of persons. Unavoidable reasons will oblige me to this, which I shall probably, in time, acquaint them with. Those who are put to trouble and expence cannot now blame me for want of notice. I have sold part of the goods on hand, but so as not to distort the store, and have still a large assortment by me, which I will sell in wholesale or retail on the terms formerly advertised. Any person who will purchase the whole shall have them on terms which they themselves will say are very low and reasonable. GEORGE MITCHELL.
DOCTOR GRAHAM, oculist and aurist, at Philadelphia, thus publicly gives notice that he proposes to be at Williamsburg about the middle of April next, where those persons whose circumstances or situation have precluded them from the benefit of applying for assistance at Philadelphia may consult him in all disorders of the eye, and its appendages, and in every species of deafness, hardness of hearing, ulcerations, noise in the ears, &c. Those persons, likewise, who have been born deaf and dumb, or those who labour under any impediment in their speech, by applying personally, will probably be assisted.
RUN away from the subscriber, at Peterburg, about the middle of September last, a very likely Negro man named PHIL, about 20 years of age, of a yellowish complexion, about 5 feet 9 inches high, and proportionably made; he is a native of Africa, but speaks broken English, having been some years in the West Indies, and has lost two joints off two of his fingers on his right hand; had on an oznabrige shirt, an old Virginia cloth waistcoat, with a new Negro cotton jacket over it, and a pair of old check trousers. As he has been used to the sea, he will probably endeavour to get on board some ship, and make his escape out of the colony; all masters of vessels are therefore forewarned from harbouring or carrying him off, at their peril. I will give THREE POUNDS reward to any person who will deliver said slave to me, or to Mr. Hugh McMechin at Portsmouth, and FORTY SHILLINGS to secure him in any gaol, and give notice thereof. THOMAS GORDON.