The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1774-11-17 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
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Mr. PINKNEY, PERMIT the following piece to appear in your paper as early as suits your convenience. TO THE AUTHOR who styles himself an ENGLISHMAN. SIR,
I AM honoured with your performance in the Norfolk Intelligencer, and will not offend you by neglect; an earlier attention would have been paid to you had the piece been sooner discovered. It is matter of some surprize that you should recommend a mode of writing to me you have not pursued yourself, or complain of a practice you have at the very moment adopted. This, perhaps, you may account for at some subsequent period; at present it cannot but appear incongruous that your precepts and example should be so strangely at variance. Brutes, Brabons, assassins, and Devils, are introduced into public with as much familiarity as if you had been intimately connected from your infancy; yet still you are an advocate for decency, recommend the stile of a gentleman, and, if we credit your information, are always to be found in respectable company. The genteel charge of countenancing assassination I utterly deny; the idea is replete with horror. Neither could such a construction be drawn from the words by any person who had not a PENCHANT for that kind of business himself. It is by no means extraordinary for those who are most conscious of guilt to begin the accusation, and extenuate their own faults by inveighing against the commission of them in others. You have certainly forgot the strong remedies you were disposed to set the Virginia assembly with, for the enormous crime of having broached new and dangerous doctrines, subversive of the supreme power of Britain. It cannot have escaped you, or your memory must be treacherous indeed, that you hung out the terrors of government to prevent a meeting of the delegates in August. But to leave your former offences to former punishments, will you now stand forth and account for the motives of your present invec-tives. To what new system of politeness can you reconcile your insinuation, that a set of gentlemen, honourably distinguished by the unbought suffrage of their country, and gloriously struggling for the liberties of the people, were possessed of the enemy of the Devils, and that the respectable inhabitants of the town of Boston were guilty of robbery? Is this, sir, the stile of a gentleman, the language of decency, or the polished diction of a fine writer? Had you had the benefit of the smallest interval of reason, you would have discovered that such disgraceful expressions, when neither protected by proof, or supported by argument, could reflect only on the person from whom they proceeded. The tea robbery, as you are pleased to define it (though the least attention to law would have evinced, that a trespass, or riot, on a supposition of guilt, is not a robbery) was produced by the iniquitous tax which preceded. The one was a consequence of the other; the effect necessarily flowed from the cause. If the right of taxation is utterly repugnant to the first principles of the constitution, every opposition it receives is unquestionably just; and wherever the attempt is made, all the colonies are equally interested in the decision. The affirmative of this grand question you have endeavoured to maintain; but with how much reputation to yourself, or satisfaction to the public, I will not pretend to determine. Your arguments speak for themselves; and though I doubt of their success, in proving the position, yet they furnish indisputable evidence of the good intentions with which they were wrote. I will not deny, that in every state it is necessary those transcendent and absolute powers you speak of should be lodged in some of its departments; their own particular regulations demand it. In Britain they are vested in the high court of parliament; they can therefore resolve themselves into what principles they please; but it cannot from thence be inferred, that countries, equally provided, should be affected by their decrees. In justice they ought not; for, from the nature of the institution, they have only in contemplation their own peculiar interests. The noble author, whose opinion you rely on, does not, in the instance you allude to, extend their jurisdiction without the realm; he never meant any thing so replete with absurdity. It would have contradicted that particular passage where he informs us the reason why any person is bound by acts of parliament (certain especial cases excepted) is, because he is a party to the election. But, sir, your quotations will not apply to one person or another, if you insist the jurisdiction of parliament has no bounds whatever, and that therefore, by inevitable consequence, the colonies are included as legal objects of taxation; it proves more than you intended: It will comprehend, with equal propriety, any independent state in Europe; for neither are mentioned by his lordship. Nay, under a prevalence of this idea, I cannot conceive why it should not extend throughout the world. If you meant, though without any foundation for such a distinction, to confine it to those countries whereof the king of England is supreme, then I answer that custom, usage, and the principles of the constitution, are against your construction. The marches of Wales, and several counties palatine, continued to tax themselves until they were moulded into the system of parliamentary representation. Ireland taxes itself at the present instant, and the colonies have been in the actual exercise of this invaluable privilege ever since their settlement. It would be ridiculous to suppose the existence of such a right without an effort to carry it into execution, or that the ministers of England had been in a lethargy ever since the granting the several charters. The energy of doctor Blackstone I shall leave to the public inspection, neither will I descend into his private motives for writing with so much energy on every ministerial question; they will determine whether the doctrine you have cited can have the least influence on the subject in dispute. At present I shall only mention one of his references, which, as it was wrote long before the controversy subsisted, will, I presume, be entitled to some kind of weight; the principle will apply to the question in the most forcible manner. The year book of the 20th of H. VI. says, that a tax granted by the parliament shall not bind those of Ireland, because they are not summoned to our parliament. This, as well as numberless other authorities which might be adduced, clearly evince that taxation and representation are inseparable. It is proved, indeed, by the plain dictates of common sense, property is taxed because the proprietor consents it shall be taxed. If it can be taxed, or taken against his will, it ceases to retain the appellation. I own I do not think we need appeal to positive laws, or municipal charters, for the proof of this self-evident truth. It is secured to us by the charter of human nature. This is one of those sacred privileges which no man is supposed to have parted with on entering into civil society; one grand design of which was to secure the property of the subject, not to wrest it from him against his consent. Suppose, for a moment, the British legislature, invested with those unnatural powers you contend for, where is the barrier to check their excesses? What counteracting security have the unrepresented Americans that they would not be abused? If they are in that deplorable state of corruption, which you seem to acknowledge, are there not forcible reasons for the conjecture? If the line of justice and moderation is pervaded, to whom are we to make our application for redress? Is it to the ducile integrity of a pampered minister, or to the fluctuating virtue of an apostate patriar, or to that respectable set which you admit to be fascinated by the graceful charms of an opulent treasury? I fear our supplications would have little effect; for as our misfortunes encased the charms of the treasury
* See 4th inst.
would still become brighter, and their attraction the stronger. If we appealed to the supreme executive power a more successful issue, could not be expected; we should only discover every avenue to the royal ear occupied by men interested in our destruction. On whatever side the ill fated American turns he discovers nothing but misery and ruin! But it seems, at all events, we ought to be enslaved, because the blood and treasure of Britain have been expended in our defence: Honour and gratitude dictate a submission. If this observation was just, it would have an extensive operation: There are few countries in the known world which have not been witnesses to the bravery of Englishmen, and very few of the nations of Europe to whom they have not at different periods furnished their assistance; yet I never heard this alleged as a reason to circumscribe them within the vortex of British taxation. It is well known that states do not protect or defend one another from motives of honour, gratitude, or affection; these are feelings unknown to the refinements of modern policy. The Prussian monarch, at the close of the last war, was forced to understand this melancholy truth. Their friendship is cemented by interest. The one is of equal duration with the other; and whenever the benefit of an exclusive trade is not an adequate compensation for the protection afforded, they will unquestionably withdraw it as an impolitic pursuit, from which national advantage cannot be expected. These, sir, are my sentiments, in which we have the misfortune so widely to differ. Indeed, when I reflect on the unpolluted sources from which you have drawn your political knowledge, my wonder at your principles ceases. When your maxims of government are derived from poets of the Augustan age, and your notions of the constitution from the commentaries of an English courtier, I am only surprized at your moderation. The Roman bard is perhaps as striking an instance as you could have exhibited of the dreadful effects of despotism. The independent patriot, who fought at Philippi for the liberties of Rome, sunk down to a whining sycophant at the court of Augustus; and, either impelled by force, or corrupted by example, meanly flattered the tyrant, in all the obsequious terms of servile adulation. A state of slavery cannot be sufficiently detested; it blows out the noblest powers of the soul, and debases human nature to a level with the meanest being of creation. With respect to the bill of rights men, we perfectly agree. Your comparison is just, though in your subsequent observation not quite so consistent. After representing them as Gods, you declare them unworthy the notice of government. For this piece of satire you ought to apologize. A stranger might conceive, that things heretofore held sacred were in their sight utterly contemptible. I do not know what was the pretended object of the institution; I know what was the avowed one: It was to weed out corruption, and to restore the constitution to its antient vigour. They wisely fore saw this well constructed fabric, like that much talked of republic of old, cannot be destroyed by evils generated within its own vitals. To guard against the impending danger, to exterminate the seeds of the disorder, or correct its advances by vigorous applications, were worthy the attention of British patriots. If the success did not answer the struggle, it serves only to discover the height of the malady, the dangerous situation of the patient, and the absolute necessity for more desperate remedies. I could justly trust the great commoner to the protection of a well deserved popularity. The trophies of his administration are placed far above the reach of vulgar detraction; but lest I should be thought to have given up the point, I will set you right in a fact you have strangely misrepresented. It was not, sir, the enormous weight of the national debt, as you have unjustly alleged, which forced him from the ministry: At the moment of his retreat he wanted to encrease it, by instantly engaging in the Spanish war. That consummate politician instantly discovered that national honour could not be expected from the counsels of such a discordant mixture, which, like the image of Daniel's vision, would never cleave together. He would not be responsible for measures he was not allowed to direct. He therefore withdrew. The resentment of the nation must be appeased. A pension and a title immediately followed. The motives of his acceptance are fully explained in a letter to alderman Beckford, wherein he declares those unexpected emoluments proceeded from the spontaneous dictates of his majesty's favour, unasked for and unsolicited by him. If the fact had been otherwise, would not his mortal enemy have seized the golden, glorious opportunity, of ruining his credit forever? The magical jogs you speak of I cannot reconcile to that integrity in office, which is admitted, any more than I can the enormous weight of the national debt to its opposite extreme, an opulent treasury; in truth, you ought to blush for having represented, in so ungenerous a point of view, the man to whose amazing abilities you perhaps at this moment owe your existence as an Englishman. I shall not interrupt the state juggler in the quiet enjoyment of the honourable office you have assigned him. Why you screwed him into public with a person who does honour to humanity I cannot conceive, unless it was, by so striking a contrast, to render his deformities more ignominiously conspicuous. The injustice of shutting up the courts I would candidly acknowledge, if it proceeded from the principle which you have insinuated. A measure of this sort should only be adopted when the ports are placed in the same predicament. The one should be a concomitant of the other. But, sir, you cannot be at a loss to know the true reason; if you are, the laws of our country will fully inform you. From the same fountain you may collect, that his lordship (whom you have so unnecessarily pushed into the dispute) was vested with sufficient powers to repel those assassins, at whose incursions you seem so much alarmed. If I conceived you had mistaken the subject from inattention, or from an unfortunate confusion of ideas, or from any other as guileless a cause, you would be entitled not to contempt, but compassion; but when you so oddly misrepresent notorious facts, and boldly pronounce that government has yet committed no errors, I cannot be at a loss to determine the motives of your labours. If you would lay open the secret recesses of your heart, I think we should discover your marmot wishes tending to that delicious repose you have so feelingly described. In this happy alylum you might bask without controul, and leave to other votaries the painful operation of spilling their blood to enslave the Americans. The warmth of your temper seems to have hurried you far beyond the general limits of ministerial advocates: They have always made a decent allowance for the lee-way of human imperfections; but you, sir, at one high high bound, have over leaped all bounds, and, quite undismayed, have undauntedly asserted the spotless innocence of all who are concerned in moving the wheels of government. Certainly, sir, your notions of the errors of government must be very extraordinary; I wish you would define them. You have admitted the influence of the treasury on the members of an august house, yet deny the guilt of those who corrupt them. They who have been in the service may have their reasons for differing in sentiment, but to me it appears not only an error, but a crime of the blackest complexion. How can you extricate yourself from such inconsistencies? I think it will greatly perplex you, and may perhaps dictate a greater degree of reflection in your future compositions.
* Mr. Pitt asserts, in his speech concerning the stamp act, that the profits to Great Britain, from the trade of the colonies, through all its branches, is two millions a year. The head of which was of fine gold, the belly and thighs of brass, the legs of iron, and the feet part iron, and part clay.
The accusation you have exhibited, of countenancing civil discord and anarchy, hath not either fact or probability to support it; it does not appear from any thing I have wrote: I do not wish a dissolution of the bonds of civil society, or aspire at an independence of the crown. My most ardent hope is for a continuance of the connection between the mother country and the colonies, on the true principles of the constitution; and though I scorn to acknowledge allegiance to a British house of commons, or crouch to an East India director, I glory in being the subject of a British king. Whether the present is the best of princes or not is a question improper for you or me to determine; that will be the office of the historian's page to record after those who have had the honour to serve him have crumbled into dust. Truth and candour may then have some chance of making their appearance, and justice no doubt will be done to his memory. The trifling charge of pillaging from eminent writers is scarce worthy of notice; I am by no means sensible of it in any other manner than in making use of those impressions which generally remain from reading and observation. If I have involuntarily come so near the diction of the elegant Mr. Hume, it is a circumstance which greatly delights me; I shall, however, be glad of an acquaintance with those whole passages which so exactly correspond. This is a favour you have promised to the public. The interogatories you allude to were intended for italics, but, I presume, from inattention omitted, as they are not in that manner inserted. It is not my custom particularly to distinguish the authorities which I cite; this you might have observed by the quotation from Sallust. Your inuendo, that you are not to be terrified, I am not certain I comprehend; I scarcely believe you intended an invitation to the field; deeds of chivalry found better in romance than in politics. When I engaged in the controversy it was as an advocate for the liberties of my country; but if you are disposed to convert it from a public into a private dispute, I will not disoblige you; it is a matter of infinite indifference to me on what ground we meet. Whenever the Englishman comes forward, the real name of Americanus shall not remain one moment concealed. The discovery will come with greater propriety from the person who supposes himself to be offended. I have now paid a pointed attention to every thing material in your performance; and whatever merit may be due to the language, I submit to the impartial public, whether it doth not altogether consist of positive assertions, without proof, and pompous expressions, without argument? I shall say no more to you at present, but consign you to the consolation of a wounded conscience, and the comfortable reflection of having done wrong by design. AMERICANUS. P.S. The author acknowledges he has not answered the various flutes and immemorial customs mentioned by the Englishman. The reason why that he did not is to tire the patience of the public with vague conjectures; but whenever the Englishman will be pleased to disprove them particularly, and in the stile of a gentleman, he shall, to use his own words, have a cool and fair reply.
By his excellency JOHN earl of DUNMORE, lieutenant and governor general in and over his majesty's colony and dominion of Virginia, and vice admiral of the same: A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS the rapid settlement made on the west side of the Alleghany mountains by his majesty's subjects, within the course of these few years, has become an object of real concern to his majesty's interest in this quarter; and whereas the province of Pennsylvania have unduly laid claim to a very valuable and extensive quantity of his majesty's territory, and the executive part of that government, in consequence thereof, has most arbitrarily and unwarrantably proceeded to abuse the laudable advancements in this part of his majesty's dominions, by many oppressive and illegal methods in the discharge of this imaginary authority; and whereas the antient claim laid to this country by the colony of Virginia, founded in reason, upon pre-occupancy, and the general acquiescence of all persons, together with the instructions I have lately received from his majesty's servants, ordering me to take this country under my administration; and as the evident injustice manifestly offered to his majesty, by the immediate strides taken by the proprietors of Pennsylvania, in prosecution of their wild claim to this country, demands an immediate remedy, I do hereby, in his majesty's name, require and command all his majesty's subjects, west of the Laurel Hill, to pay a due respect to this my proclamation, strictly prohibiting the execution of any act of authority on behalf of the province of Pennsylvania at their peril in this country; but, on the contrary, that a due regard and entire obedience to the laws of his majesty's colony of Virginia, under my administration, be observed, to the end that regularity may ensue, and a just regard to the interest of his majesty in this quarter, as well as to the subject in general, may be the consequence. Given under my hand and seal, at Fort Dunmore, September 17, 1774. Signed DUNMORE. By his excellency's command. GOD SAVE THE KING.
By the honourable JOHN PENN, esquire, governor and commander in chief of the province of Pennsylvania, and counties of Newcastle, Kent, and Sussex, on Delaware: A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS I have received information that his excellency the earl of Dunmore, governor general in and over his majesty's colony of Virginia, hath lately issued a very extraordinary proclamation, setting forth, "that the rapid settlement made on the west of the Alleghany mountains by his majesty's subjects, within the course of these few years, had become an object of real concern to his majesty's interest in that quarter; that the province of Pennsylvania had unduly laid claim to a very valuable and extensive quantity of his majesty's territory, and the executive part of that government, in consequence thereof, had most arbitrarily and unwarrantably proceeded to abuse the laudable advancements in that part of his majesty's dominions, by many oppressive and illegal measures in discharge of their imaginary authority, and that the antient claim laid to that country by the colony of Virginia, founded in reason, upon pre-occupancy, and the general acquiescence of all persons, together with the instruction he had lately received from his majesty's servants, ordering him to take that country under his administration; and as the evident injustice manifestly offered to his majesty, by the immoderate strides taken by the proprietors of Pennsylvania, in prosecution of their wild claim to that country, demanded an immediate remedy, he did hereby, in his majesty's name, require and command all his majesty's subjects, west of the Laurel Hill, to pay a due respect to his said proclamation, thereby strictly prohibiting the execution of any act of authority on behalf of the province of Pennsylvania, at their peril, in that country; but, on the contrary, that a due regard and entire obedience to the laws of his majesty's colony of Virginia, under his administration, should be observed, to the end that regularity might ensue, and a just regard to the interest of his majesty in that quarter, as well as to his majesty's subjects, might be the consequence." And whereas, although the western limits of the province of Pennsylvania have not been settled by any authority from the crown, yet it has been sufficiently demonstrated, by lines accurately run by the most skillful artists, that not only a great tract of coun-

try, west of the Laurel Hill, but Fort Pitt also, are comprehended within the charter bounds of this province, a great part of which country has been actually settled, and is now held, under grants from the proprietors of Pennsylvania, and the jurisdiction of this government has been peaceably exercised in that quarter of the country, till the late strange claim set up by the earl of Dunmore, in behalf of his majesty's colony of Virginia, founded, as his lordship is above pleased to say, "in reason, pre-occupancy, and the general acquiescence of all persons;" which claim to lands within the said charter limits must appear still the more extraordinary, as his most gracious majesty, in an act passed the very last session of parliament, "for making more effectual provision for the government of the province of Quebec," has been pleased, in the fullest manner, to recognize the charter of the province of Pennsylvania, by expressly referring to the same, and binding the said province of Quebec by the northern and western bounds thereof: Wherefore there is the greatest reason to conclude, that any instructions the governor of Virginia may have received from his majesty's servants, to take that country under his administration, must be founded on some misrepresentation to them respecting the western extent of this province. In justice therefore to the proprietors of the province of Pennsylvania, who are only desirous to secure their own undoubted property from the encroachment of others, I have thought it, with the advice of the council, to issue this my proclamation, hereby requiring all persons, west of the Laurel Hill, to retain their settlements as aforesaid made under this province, and to pay due obedience to the laws of this government; and all magistrates, and other officers, who hold commissions or offices under this government, to proceed as usual in the administration of justice, without paying the least regard to the said recited proclamation, until his majesty's pleasure shall be known in the premises; at the same time strictly charging and enjoining the said inhabitants and magistrates to use their utmost endeavours to preserve peace and good order.
Given under my hand, and the great seal of the said province, at Philadelphia, the 12th day of October, in the year of our Lord, 1774, and in the 14th year of the reign of our sovereign lord George the third, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, king, defender of the faith, and so forth.
By his honour's command, JOHN PENN. JOSEPH SHIPPEN, junior, secretary. GOD SAVE THE KING.
FROM THE LONDON MERCURY.
Some EXTRACTS from an act "for making more effectual provision for the government of the province of QUEBEC, in North America," with a few OBSERVATIONS.
THE contrivers of the Quebec bill would have it understood that it supports upon an act then made by a protestant administration; but the fallacy will be evident to any one who reads the act of the first of Elizabeth, wherein her supremacy, in all spiritual and ecclesiastical things or causes, is by oath required of all who bore any office temporal or spiritual, and by which the falsehood is notorious. Also see another article in the Quebec bill to the same purpose:
"Provided always, and be it enacted, that no person professing the religion of the church of Rome, and residing in the said province, shall be obliged to take the oath required by the said statute, passed in the first year of the reign of queen Elizabeth."
This is in full proof that there is no truth in saying that this Quebec bill is of the same tenor with, or has the countenance of that protestant statute of the first of queen Elizabeth, the Canadians not being in the least subjected to the king's supremacy. They are authorized by this act to own a foreign supreme head; nay, in the very letter of the oath required in the Quebec bill, they only say, "I A. B. do sincerely promise and swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to his majesty king George, and him will defend, &c." They do not so much as distinguish him as the first, second, or third king of that name, nor of what kingdom he is king. There is not therefore any thing at all binding in the oath; and whoever drew it up for the use of the Canadians richly deserves to lose his head.
But how miserable, how pitiable, the condition of the Canadian protestants, by virtue of this act, passed in the 14th year of the reign of George III. when we read the article following:
"Provided also, that no ordinance touching religion, or by which any person shall be obliged greater than fine and imprisonment for three months, or be of any force or effect until the same shall receive his majesty's ratification."
Surely if the reign of truth and righteousness should recover a mankind again learn to revere liberty, and the rights of mankind will be astonished that a British protestant senate should leave the protestants, in so extensive a province as that of Quebec, liable to be arbitrarily, and to imprisonment for three months, if a popish council or administration see fit to inflict such punishment; for unless the punishment be greater, the ordinance will have its force and efficacy, without any regard had to his majesty's approbation.
Nor can it be a desirable situation for British protestant subjects to have a stated residence in Canada, with respect to the security of property; for thus runs the statute:
"In all matters of controversy, relative to property and civil rights, resort shall be had to the laws of Canada, as the rule for the decision of the same."
Moreover, though it is said that his majesty may appoint council for the affairs of the province, which council may make ordinances with consent of the governor, yet there is no manner of security in all this; for so it is enacted:
"Provided always, that nothing in this act contained shall extend to authorize or empower the said legislative council to lay any taxes or duties within the said province, such rates and taxes only excepted as the inhabitants of any town or district, within the said province, may be authorized, by the said council, to assess, levy, and apply, within the said town or district, for the purpose of making roads, erecting and repairing public buildings, or for any other purpose, respecting the local convenience and economy of such town or district."
This is surely a very loose, absurd, and non-sensical proviso. The council may not lay any taxes or duties, and yet may assess, levy, and apply, for roads, public buildings, or any other purpose they shall deem proper; an exception so very lax, as to render of little or no significance the limitation of the authority upon the council. Nor does it appear, that if the council see fit to appoint magnificent mass houses, or extensive buildings, in the several towns, for the convenience of the popish worship, that the protestants will be excused from such assessments; for these taxes will be construed very different from their tythes, &c.
From the MASSACHUSETTS SPY. TO THE BRITONS AND AMERICANS.
YOUR contests are now become so serious and important that they engage the attention of all civilized nations, and as the sword of war seems almost ready to be unsheathed, I would beg leave, with the voice of reason and humanity, to speak a few words of truth and soberness. What do the Britons want? Riches and honours. What do the Americans want? Liberty. Cannot both be gratified? Yes. Why then do they continue an unnatural and injurious quarrel, which deeply wounds both their interests? Because they will not follow the plain dictates of common sense. If the path be so plain wherein Britain may secure her honour and interest, and the Americans their liberty, you will naturally say, point it out? I answer, here it is. Let Britain secure her honour by demanding nothing but what is honourable and just, and her interest will forever be inseparable from her honour; let the Americans remain perfectly free, and enjoy the blessings of the British constitution in their full extent, equal with Britons in Britain. Then will the wealth of America flow into Britain, through the channel of commerce, as naturally and as certainly as the rivers run into the ocean. Complaint, wrath, and envy, between the two countries will cease, and mutual love, and good will, pry re-animate your bosoms. This surely would be honourable for Britain, happy for America, and glorious for the whole nation. Some are so extremely quick as to talk of Britain's maintaining her honour by enforcing her laws, however unjust to others, or injurious to herself: A people governed by such principles must be considered by all the rest of the world as a nation of fools and madmen. The wisest men sometimes err and it is a sure sign of wisdom to be willing to correct an error when it is discovered, and all men esteem it honourable. The British parliament has often acknowledged an error by repealing her own acts, when it was found by experience that they were injurious, and by so doing she enhanced her honour and her reputation in the world. Why, then, in the name of reason, should any man suppose that her honour is concerned to maintain the present measures respecting America when a scheme of policy, infinitely more advantageous, lies open to every common mind? I was going to mention the wide desolation and dreadful calamities which await the nation if harmony is not soon restored, but at present I forbear.
S O L O M O N, junior.
TO LORD NORTH.
YOU have been thought qualified, from the depth of your political genius, and the zealous rancour of your disposition towards a free and loyal people, to furnish expedients for reducing a brave, free, and loyal people, to the humiliating situation of suing for remission of their political transgressions at the feet of parliament. If you have the justice to proportion the punishment to the offence, this of the Americans must, in your idea, be of no small magnitude, to sentence them to so base and ignominious a submission. But, my lord, in a case of great consequence as this, in which two millions and a half of people are concerned, one would think your humanity, supposing you totally void of justice, would influence you to procure competent proof of the reputed crimes. Prove the fact to this amount, and I am ready to submit to the judgment you have pronounced, although it is of a nature rather suited to the tyranny of the east. Under your auspices ships of war, and an army, have been sent to Boston, to put in force certain acts of the British parliament, destructive of the trade of that town, the freedom of the province, and eventually of all America. For my own part, I am willing to rest the liberties of my country on the issue of this business, and I make no doubt all America will readily subscribe to my opinion. The cause of the town of Boston is looked upon every where in America as a common cause; witness the responses of the several colonies, and the generous donations sent thither to relieve the distresses of the poor. Are you not convinced you have been misled by false representations of interested men, in your judgment, of that numerous, brave, and injured people? If you deny the fact, I will only mention, in support of it, the impotent handful of troops you have sent against them, and the inefficacy of your laws in respect to the internal government of that province. Permit me to inform you, that in Massachusetts Bay only there are at least 80,000 men fit for action, 20,000 militia in New Hampshire, and 40,000 in Connecticut, which, with the number Rhode Island can furnish, will make at least 150,000 men, ready to appear at five days notice. But these are not all: I know you to calculate the additional forces which may be supplied by the southern colonies. The town of Boston, garrisoned by the troops now there, and going to it, may hold out a siege till the winter, from the present natural strength of the place; but it is in that season accessible in every part over the ice, which forms a bridge strong enough to bear any number of men. When this happens, what will not be achieved by a people determined to die or be free?
You may remember Cromwell's remarks, in the army, of the parliament, compared with that of the king: Says he, "We shall ever be beaten by the royal army till we make a reform in our own. Our troops are composed chiefly of tapsters and serving men; the king's of gentlemen and gentlemen's sons, and the better sort of people. We must get farmers sons, and reputable people, to serve under us, before we can pretend to vie with our adversaries." His advice was followed, and they conquered.
The troops of the colonies, in case you should prosecute your design against their liberties, will be composed altogether of the respectable class of yeomanry, who will fight upon principle, and maintain their point to the last; for I will venture to affirm there is not, according to their rank, a more intelligent, spirited people to be found in the world.
Having thus exhibited to you some of the difficulties which you will have to combat with, let us now turn our eyes towards Canada, and take a brief view of the nature and tendency of the late act of parliament regulating the internal government of that province:
You would have it thought to be the wish of the Canadians to be under arbitrary power rather than enjoy the invaluable blessings of liberty; and can you, my lord, think it right, even upon this principle, though I am far from admitting the truth of it, to take advantage of the ignorance or folly of a deluded people, to deprive them, by a solemn act of the British parliament, of the inalienable rights of nature? It is thus you make a pander of parliament to procure you arbitrary power? It is thus you sacrifice the honour and justice of that once revered body of men to an avarice and vile purpose as ever disgraced the human heart. But let us not lose sight of our main design, which was to enquire into the motives and views upon which this fact was founded:
You have, instead of a bare violation of the Roman catholic religion, made it the established religion in Canada, though it is the most sanguinary of any amongst christians, and one of its cardinal tenets, absolution, is totally inconsistent with all civil government. You have not only done this, but, contrary to every maxim of sound policy, you have also, under the sanction of parliament, introduced the French laws. Nothing but a better government, and more beneficial laws, can possibly alter the habits, passions, and maxims, of the Canadians, in favour of Great Britain, and secure their attachment and fidelity to her. But their religion and policy being the same, they were before, and their habits, passions, and maxims, of course, continuing the same, what degree of attachment or affection can be expected from such a people, whose whole souls are devoted to the service of the grand monarque?
You have declared in the house of commons it is your intention to form a chain of forts in the new province of Quebec, along the rear of the old British colonies, and garrison them with Canadians, to keep the old colonies in order. My lord, your plan is weak and preposterous. Strengthen the bands of the Canadians, and you will do France an essential service; for it requires no great spirit of prophecy to foretel they will turn their arms against you, and put themselves again under the dominion of that country to which they are so remarkably attached. What will then be the consequences of your ill concerted schemes against the liberty and happiness of this insulted country? The certain loss to Britain, of Canada, and, if not of all the other colonies, such an interruption of her trade with them as will bring the deepest distress upon the finances of the kingdom. The trade to this country is one of the chief props of that important system of taxes, the well being of which is so essential to the security of Great Britain. All the wisdom and resource of the ablest statesmen have not been equal to the task of lessening, in any considerable degree, the enormous debt of the nation. Their utmost efforts are now requisite to stop the progress of this political cancer, and therefore every salutary ingredient in the medicine, applied to this purpose, ought to be highly prized.
But suppose, my lord, which is for nonsense than I have mentioned, the rigour and injustice of your measure should operate with such effect as to deprive Great Britain of these colonies forever: It is not improbable, should you continue to pursue your purpose, if an opinion may be formed from the present temper and spirit of America. In this case, it is easy to foresee the event: Britain must sink under the miseries, and your name, like that of Erostratus, will be handed down to posterity for the eminent mischief you have done in the world. Like in infamy, humanity would not shudder, if, in the remembrance of punishment, the mild laws of your country should, for once, be infringed.
C A I U S. V I E N N A, August 24.
IT was reported yesterday at the camp at Pest, that the grand vizir, who lately commanded the Turkish army, died suddenly (but in what manner is not known) and that he was interred at Adrianople.
CONSTANTINOPLE, August 3. The 16th of last month we received the melancholy news, that the grand vizir had been abandoned the 30th of June by 140,000 men of his army, who had basely deserted their colours to return home. The grand signior held a grand divan the same day, in which the critical situation of the Ottoman army, who was in danger of being taken prisoner with the remainder of his troops, was taken into consideration; and, in consequence, it was unanimously resolved to send him immediately full powers to conclude a peace with Russia upon the best term he should be able to obtain.
A Janissary, named Effendissi, arrived here the 19th of last month from the army, with the preliminaries of the peace, which Field Marshal Count Romanzow had himself dictated to the grand signior. The following day his highness, with the advice of the mufti, the lawyers, and the principal officers of the porte, signed those preliminaries, and dispatched them immediately to the army.
WARSAW, August 24. Admiral Knowles is arrived here from Petersburg, with his lady and daughter. Prince Czartoryski, general of Podolia, gave him a splendid supper and ball last Saturday, at which was present the young prince of Waldeck, who served as a volunteer in the Russian army. On the following Monday prince Poniatowski, the chamberlain of the crown, gave them a magnificent breakfast at his estate of Szolec.
GENOA, August 20. They write from Madrid, that the king has determined to reduce the inquisition to a college of enquiry into religious affairs, and has taken its jurisdiction and prisons from it, so that that tribunal cannot pronounce any sentence of death, nor even of imprisonment, these judgments belonging to the civil tribunals.
PARIS, September 2. Monday night several people amused themselves with throwing squibs about the gates of the palace, which brought the guard there and they shut the gates. This affronted the populace, and they insulted all the people that passed by without distinction, throwing squibs in every body's face and into the windows of the palace. The officers of justice interposed, but so little respect was paid to them that they were opposed with swords and other weapons, by which several were dangerously wounded, and one of them killed; and they would have been totally overpowered, if a detachment of the watch had not come to their assistance and put an end to the disturbance, which was not effected till about two o'clock in the morning. Every evening since people have assembled about the palace and the neighbouring streets, and it is not known when the fury of the populace will be at an end.
L O N D O N, September 15.
A GENTLEMAN just arrived from Paris, who made it his business while there to find out how the people were affected towards their new king, and whether they thought themselves happier now than they were in the late reign, says, that he was much surprized to find that an universal discontent prevailed every where among the people, and that they were much displeased with the English newspapers for giving him virtues that he never did, or ever will, possess, and distributing so much happiness throughout the kingdom, when nothing is experienced but the utmost distress. The people do not scruple to say, that while he inherits jesuitical principles, they can expect nothing but being scourged with a tyrannic rod, and that his grandfather, with all his faults and vices, was much to be preferred to him with all his virtuous masks. This the above gentleman declares to be the true sentiments of the people every where, and says he is astonished at, and cannot dive into the meaning of the English passing such fine encomiums upon him, for certain it is, notwithstanding the great reliance our ministry may have on the powerful promises of the court of France, that they are at this instant in high consultation how to give a wound to the peace of England. From the above relation, it is most certain that the court of France is wholly taken up with the hostile proposals of Spain against us: Nay, does not every proceeding of the court of Madrid corroborate this, as well as the hints given us by many of our neighbours; but it seems as if nothing would wake us out of our lethargy but balls and bullets flying about our heads.
We cannot think the ministry are so concerned about affairs in America as some seem to hint they are; but on the contrary are inclined to believe the confusion there of very little consequence to England, otherwise they would be employed in consultations together in town, to disperse such confusion and tumult, rather than feasting their minds and appetites with country pleasures and dainties.
Who can deny but that the government is at present a military one? The ministry have made it such, who being conscious that reason, justice, and the civil spirit of the constitution, are all against and ashamed of them, have, like terrified cowards, precipitately blundered on the cruel and much hated resource of turning the arms of Britain against her own bosom, and yet, if we may credit what they seem so industriously careful to conceal (even their own accounts allow of) the alarming desertions of the military at Boston, as if the soldiers, inheriting more exalted souls than their employers, rejected the bloody business with horror; men who never turned their backs on the natural enemies of their country; men whose approved integrity in the field has often given glory to their country, now spurn at the inglorious warfare, and prefer, what on other occasions would be worse than death itself, desertion to duty, when it comes in competition with their honour, as Britons and soldiers.
It is generally thought that the ministry will find it necessary to get the Boston port bill repealed the next session of parliament, if at least they hope of any success at the ensuing general election.
The toast now is, "May the Bostonians and the military be unanimous in support of public liberty."
We hear, that as Dr. Shipley, by his honest behaviour, has precluded himself from ever rising in his profession on this side the water, his friends are soliciting for his being appointed archbishop of Boston, where he is the only man that can be agreeable, as the first bishop that ever had the courage to maintain the sentiments of a free man.
A correspondent informs us, that in one of the publications of Holland for last month, there is something to the following effect: "It is remarkable that the two most powerful kings in Europe are, with all their seeming authority, under the necessity of concealing their religion; for it is certain that one is a jesuit, and the other a papist."
A correspondent wishes to know if at the interment of the supposed highwayman who was shot by the guard of the Exeter stage, the minister who officiated at the funeral omitted or repeated the following words in that most solemn service, "We thank thee, O father! for having TAKEN this our brother out of the miseries of this sinful world." If used, how strongly does it evince the absolute expediency of every minister being vested with a discretionary power of dispensing with the above part on such occasions in cases similar to the above, and in those of executed malefactors? What less than a profane mockery is it to invoke the majesty of Heaven, and return him thanks for having taken from mortality those whose malefactions had rendered their lives an expiatory sacrifice to the offended laws of justice? A part in our excellent liturgy so objectionable indisputably demands a speedy amendment.
A correspondent observes, that the depredations of the northern ravager may be not ill compared to those of the dragon of Wantley, in the burlesque opera of that name:
"Houses and churches Are to him but geese and turkies."
Tuesday morning as some carpenters were mending a garret floor in Bride Court, they found the skeletons of two children between the rafters, supposed to have been murdered some years since, as the bones dropped to dust on moving them.

A few days ago died at Kettering, in Northamptonshire, aged 84, John Smart, a cobler, who had 34 children by 5 wives, and who retained his bodily strength so long, that, till within these 2 years, he was able to take a 5 bushel sack of wheat on his shoulders without any assistance.
Extract of a letter from Warsaw, dated August 24. "It has been mentioned that the king was reduced to the necessity of approving the plan of a permanent council, in consequence of which forced consent of his majesty, given only with a view to keep off the misfortunes with which the republic was threatened, the delegation signed the following points the 8th of this month:
 1. The establishment of a permanent council of the state is decided.  2. This council shall be composed of three estates, the king, the senate (the ministry comprehended) and the equestrian order in equal numbers, as much with regard to the persons of the senate, and the equestrian order, as to the provinces of Grand Poland and Lithuania.  3. The king shall always be chief of this council.  4. The article concerning the prerogatives of the king shall remain entire, and it is set forth in the project of the permanent council, the following words only excepted, viz. "that the king shall not engage to answer for his successors."  5 The members of council shall be chosen by a majority, which is to be decided by ballot, at all the ordinary diets, immediately after the election of the marshal, and as soon as the chamber of the equestrian order shall have joined the senate." 
Extract of a letter from Paris, dated September 2. "The grand project of the Duc de Choiseul, and which has been laid aside since his disgrace, is now the object of public conversation. That late minister had his consent to the division of Poland by the three powers who have executed it, and requested their neutrality with respect to a plan which he himself proposed to carry into execution. In consequence, he projected to build a town on the borders of the lake of Geneva in the country of Varsai, and employed for that purpose 300,000 livres: But the Genevese and the Switzers, who suspected his intentions, destroyed in the night what the workmen had done in the day, either by the overflowing of the lakes, or the rivulets which water their country, and these accidents appeared so natural, that the real occasion could not be discovered: The architects and conductors of those works were too well paid to divulge the true cause; but as the duke's power began to decline, he did not obstinately pursue this operation. He communicated his secret to Victor Amadeus, king of Sardinia, who had long been jealous of the liberty of Geneva and the Swiss cantons. The disgrace of the minister and the death of Victor Amadeus with whom he had a treaty on the tapis, occasioned the cessation of a greater pursuit. The Duc de Aguillon, successor of that minister, was more of a courtier than a politician; he was desirous of peace, fearing that war or any unhappy disputes, might make him deserve what the death of Louis occasioned to him: Besides, being the sworn enemy of Choiseul, he represented in a disadvantageous light to his master every thing that he projected; he observed a neutrality in the division of Poland; all his projects in politics failed, his whole administration hath rendered him the object of public hatred, and his disgrace occasioned universal joy. At present, affairs are about to wear a different face; the emperor will be induced by the allurements of interest, as all the powers of Europe are, to reciprocate against his engagements, and to enter into an alliance with France and Sardinia, to reduce to slavery both Geneva and Switzerland. Despotism is an epidemical disease, interest and avarice authorise it under the veil of religion; and in less than a year, we may expect to see more blood spilt than has been shed in all the past wars."
PHILADELPHIA, November 2. To the freeholders and electors of the city and county of Philadelphia.
As the congress, in support and for the preservation of American liberty, have formed resolves, and entered into an association, in behalf of themselves and the colonies they represented, and have recommended the appointment of committees in the several towns and counties, for carrying the same into execution, and the committee chosen for the city and county of Philadelphia, on the 18th of June last, having to the best of our abilities executed the trust then reposed in us, beg leave to recommend to our constituents the appointment of a new committee for this city and county, on Saturday the 10th instant, at the state-house, at ten o'clock in the morning, which time and place those qualified to vote for representatives in assembly are desired to attend.
To the PUBLIC. A number of the citizens of Philadelphia, anxious to comply with the 11th resolve of the CONGRESS, in which it is recommended to each city, town, and county, to form committees for carrying into execution the whole of their resolutions, beg leave to propose the choice of separate committees for the city and county for the following reasons: The business which will necessarily be before the city and county being
different, they apprehend it will be better done by committees in each place. In the city they include Southwark and the Northern Liberties.
 2. The emergencies of business in the city will require such frequent and sudden meetings of a committee, that members from the county cannot conveniently attend.  3. In complying with the non-consumption agreement recommended by the congress, they apprehend the city can afford no assistance to the county, nor the county to the city, so that should they attempt to act together, they will obstruct and delay the execution of that very necessary resolution.  4. By interesting people in every township, in the most remote as well as adjoining parts of the county, in the execution of the resolves of the congress, they apprehend that intelligence, firmness, and unanimity, will be more generally promoted, by which means both city and county will be enabled to act with more success in the general cause of American liberty. 
WILLIAMSBURG. Extract from the votes and proceedings of the AMERICAN CONTINENTAL CONGRESS.
11th RESOLVE. THAT a COMMITTEE be chosen in every county, city, and town, by those who are qualified to vote for representatives in the legislature; whose business it shall be, attentively to observe the conduct of all persons touching this ASSOCIATION: And when it shall be made to appear, to the satisfaction of a majority of any such committee, that any person, within the limits of their appointment, has violated this association, that such majority do forthwith cause the truth of the case to be published in the gazette , to the end that all such foes to the rights of British America may be publickly known, and universally contemned, as the enemies of American liberty ; and thenceforth we, respectively, will break off all dealings with him, or her."
THAT the above, and all other RESOLUTIONS of the CONGRESS, may be carried into strict execution , the several freeholders of James City county are desired to meet at eleven o'clock on Friday the 25th instant, if fair, otherwise the succeeding day, at the house of Mr. Isham Allen, in order to elect a COMMITTEE to act throughout the said county, and do what is required of them by so respectable and august a body.
Died on the 10th instant, at Studley, the seat of Peter Lyons, esquire, Mr. WILLIAM BASSETT, eldest son of Burwell Bassett, esquire, of New Kent; he was a most engaging and amiable youth.
The ADDRESS to CELIA shall appear in our next.
For CHARTER, THE BRIGANTINE ABEY, JONAS HERBERT, MASTER; BURTHEN about 240 hogheads, or 8000 bushels. For terms apply to Norfolk, Nov. 5, 1774. GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
COLCHESTER, November 1, 1774. THE subscriber some time ago advertised in the neighbourhood of this place, that the business formerly transacted by him here, on account of Messieurs David Dalzell, George Oswald and company, and Oswald, Denham, and company, of Glasgow, was declined by him on the 10th of January last, and committed to the management of Mr. John Gibson, and as he intends soon to leave the colony, he requests all who have had dealings with him on account of either of the said companies, and have not already settled their accounts, to come immediately and settle with Mr. Gibson, who has transacted the business since the 10th of January last, and continues to carry it on. Those who have claims against the said company for transactions with them, are desired to apply to Mr. Gibson, that they may be adjusted.
HECTOR ROSS.
WHEREAS I some time ago bought of Mr. John Trotter 400 acres of land, in the county of Brunswick, and gave three several obligations for payment of the purchase money, which was 200l. in the proportions and at the times following, viz. 100l. in April last, and 50l. in April in the two succeeding years; and whereas I have been credibly informed that a suit in chancery is now depending in the general court, brought by the attorney general, against the said Thomas Trotter and John Trotter, in order to subject the said land to a judgment recovered by the king against the said Thomas Trotter; and I have been advised that before the determination of that suit my title will be insecure. In order, therefore, that no person may be deceived by taking assignments of the said bonds, I do hereby give notice that I will not pay the said purchase money, or any part of it, without being compelled to do so, until I can be satisfied that my title will not be evicted.
LEWIS COLLEIER. DUMFRIES, November 8, 1774. At a meeting of the JOCKY CLUB this day, resolved, that in conformity to the 8th article of the resolves of the GENERAL CONGRESS, the Dumfries races, that were advertised to be run the 29th of this month, be postponed. The gentlemen farmers that are fattening beeftes, muttons, and veals, for our premiums, must, for the present, put up with honour and glory in place of the giblets that were intended for them.
RICHARD GRAHAM, SECRETARY.
JOHN GREEN, SADDLER and HARNESSMAKER, in FREDERICKSBURG, gives his friends and the public notice that there never was a partnership between him and JOHN SORREL, as was supposed, though it was intended; but he, the said SORREL, not having a stock or credit sufficient for carrying on the said business, obliged me to part from him, which I did, after allowing him half the profits from the time of our commencement in the above business. I intend carrying on the business to its usual extent, and hope to give entire satisfaction to all those who may please to employ me. I return my most sincere thanks to those who have already favoured me with their custom, and hope, by similarity, to gain their future favours.
JOHN GREEN. NOVEMBER 1, 1774. THE partnership of Amos Ladd and company being this day dissolved by consent, all persons having demands on the said company are to apply to Amos and James Ladd for payment, who have undertaken to discharge all demands against Amos Ladd and company. I intend soon to leave the colony.
JOHN ATKINSON. RUN away from the subscriber, living in Prince Edward, an Irish servant man named Thomas Naughton, about 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, wears his own short light coloured hair, and has lost one of his fore teeth; had on a brown linen shirt and jacket, duffel breeches, a felt hat, and was bare foot. Also an apprentice lad named Anthony Wilson, 14 or 15 years of age, wears his own short light coloured hair, had on an osnabrig shirt, Russia drill breeches, a negro cotton coat, and was bare foot. Whoever secures the said runaways to that I get them again, shall have a reward of 4l. for the servant, 20s. for the apprentice, and, if brought home, all reasonable charges. All masters of vessels are hereby forewarned from carrying them out of the colony.
JOHN THOMPSON, junior. TAKEN up, on Appomattox river, near the upper bridge, in Prince Edward, a bay mare, about 4 feet 2 inches and a half high, has a star in her forehead, about 6 years old, her left eye is what is called a glass eye, all of her feet are white intermixed with black spots, has a nip on her nose, and branded on each buttock 2. Potted, and appraised to 5l.
WILLIAM HALL. TAKEN up in Spottsylvania, 4 sheep, viz. one ram, marked with a swallow fork in each ear; one ewe, marked with a crop, slit, and underkeel in the right, and crop and underkeel in the left; one wether, marked with a crop and slit in the right, and a crop in the left ear; the other is a lamb, unmarked. All the above sheep are white. Potted, and appraised to 1l. 18s.
WILLIAM CARTER. TAKEN up, on Deep Creek, in Cumberland, a bay mare, about 4 feet 6 inches high, about 5 years old, a switch tail, and no brand perceivable. Potted, and appraised to 12l.
JACOB MAGEHE. TAKEN up, near the head of Harris's creek, in Prince Edward, a forrel mare, about 4 feet 2 or 3 inches high, 8 years old, 3 white feet, and appears to have been branded with an F. Potted, and appraised to 5l.
ALEXANDER GUILLE. TAKEN up, in Orange, a small fleecy grey horse, about 11 years old, and branded on the near buttock with a cross. Potted, and appraised to 3l.
REUBEN DANIEL. Just published, and to be SOLD, by the printer hereof,
THE VIRGINIA ALMANACK, For the year of our Lord 1775. WILLIAMSBURG, November 12, 1774. For SALE, MY DWELLINGHOUSE &c. in York town. For terms apply to this city.
J. H. NORTON. To be disposed of, by the subscriber, in Danville, a PERSON that understands ENGRAVING in all its different branches; such as ruling and making impressions on gold, silver, copper, brass, &c. likewise making small cuts of all kinds, coats of arms, cyphers and figures on plate, in the neatest manner. He has near seven years to serve.
ANDREW LEITCH. At a court held for Sussex county the 20th of October, 1774. TWO writings purporting the last will and testament of HARTWELL MARABLE, late of this county, deceased, being found among his other papers, of different contents and dates, the court doth appoint December court next to determine which of those writings doth contain the true last will and testament of the said Marable, and that all persons interested may then attend, it is ordered that the same be published in the Virginia gazette.
A. CLAIBORNE, C. S. C. To be SOLD, on Monday the 20th day of this instant (November) if fair, if not the next fair day, at Loudoun county, THIRTY likely NEGROES, consisting of men and women, boys and girls, among whom is a lad that has worked seven years at the blacksmith's business, some house women, who can sew, wash, iron, and spin, two very good wood cutters, having been used to cut and cord wood for a furnace, also a good cart or wagon driver. Credit will be given until the first day of May next, the purchasers giving bond, with security, to bear interest from the date, if not punctually discharged.
JOHN TURBERVILLE. THE subscriber having with great pains and study acquired a knowledge in the cure of the BLOODY FLUX, and having, out of regard to my fellow creatures, communicated to the public, by dispensing many receipts, directing the patient what means and method he is to use, takes this method of acquainting the public that he will attend any patient, under 25 miles, at 20s. each patient; but if more than one in a family to be attended, his price will be more moderate, and expects no pay unless his patient survives the disorder. He believes himself to be capable of administering means for preventing the taking the disorder in families where it may be raging, which he will do at the moderate price of 10s. each person, and will attend patients at greater distances at a moderate expence, and on the conditions as above mentioned.
THOMAS JOHNSON. T E N P O U N D S R E W A R D. RUN away from the subscriber's plantation on Bull Run, the 7th of September last, a convict servant man, who says his name is John Horns, but was convicted by the name of Peeling Horns, and imported into Potomack river, last month, in the ship Taylor. He is an Englishman, about 24 years of age, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, with short black hair, a smooth face, and a scar under his left eye. Had on, and took with him, an old blue sailor's jacket, very short, with small black buttons, set thick on both sides, a black waistcoat, corduroy breeches, light marled stockings, and old shoes; also new light grey jacket and breeches of coarse cloth, with white metal buttons, and two new osnabrig shirts, with several other shirts, silk handkerchiefs, and other things. He carried off a likely black blooded mare, about 14 hands high, with a star on her forehead, branded on the near shoulder H, and on the near buttock M. I will give the above reward for the servant and the mare, delivered to me in Colchester.
ALEXANDER HENDERSON. RUN away from the subscriber, near Prince Edward courthouse, about the 1st of October, a negro fellow named CESAR, formerly the property of Mr. David Copeland, of Cumberland county, of whom I purchased him. He is about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, and well made; had on, and carried with him, an upper jacket, made out of a blanket, and an under one, of negro cotton, without skirts, and pretty much wore, an osnabrig shirt, and a pair of blue velvet breeches, more than him ware. He had no shoes or stockings when he went off. As he was born and raised in Cumberland county, where he must have formed some connections, it is probable he may have gone that route. Whoever brings the said slave to me, or secures him in any goal, and informs me thereof, so that I get him again, shall receive twenty shillings reward, besides what the law allows.
ROBERT LAWSON.
T E N P O U N D S R E W A R D. RUN away from the subscriber, living in Somerset county, Maryland, a certain Thomas Mallat, who being sent by me as commander of a sloop of about 1500 bushels burthen to Baltimore town, where, after having very much amiss, he absconded, it is supposed, either to N. fork, York, or some other part of Virginia. The sloop is of oak, except the top, timbers, and beams, which are pine. The said Mallat is a very dark, pocket-rocket fellow, and remarkably smooth spoken. Whoever secures the said villain and fellow, so that the owner may get him again, shall receive the above reward.
(2) JOSEPH DANHELL. FALMOUTH, October 25, 1774. I INTEND to leave the colony in a few weeks.
GEORGE BUCHANAN.

TO BE RENTED , and entered on the 18th day of January next, THE lower FERRY on Chickabominy river, in Charles City, and known by the name of Lester's ferry, where Mr. Robert Lorton, deceased, lived several years. The houses are in good repair. The tract of land contains 320 acres, and hath an excellent range for cattle and hogs, and is a good place for fishing and fowling. Any person inclined to become a tenant may know the terms by applying to (3) REJAMIN DANCY.
THERE was a hoghead of tobacco inspected at Rocky Ridge warehouse the 9th of August, 1769, for Francis Smith, and entered on our book, number 1370, 1170, 80, 1090, nett. If not claimed in time, it will be sold according to law. SCOTT and PANKEY, Inspectors.
NOTICE is hereby given, that there is now remaining in Waddy's warehouse, in New Kent county, one hoghead of tobacco, the marks, number, weight, and maker's name, as follows: Marks. No. Gross. Tare. Nett. Maker's Name. F. W. 192 1192 89 1103 Francis Wilkinson, Henrico. A note out. FINCH and BACON.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Dumfries, on the 21st of October, three servant men, viz. JOSEPH FISHER, a convict and tailor, about 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, dark visage, down look, and has a scar on his upper lip; had on a blue broadcloth coat and jacket, with metal buttons, white fustian breeches, and pinched buckles. WILLIAM BOOTH, a convict and sailor, about 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high, has a wooden leg, which he endeavours to hide with trousers, is pitted with the smallpox, of a dark complexion, and has very black hair. He has sundry cloaths with him. PATRICK CREAMER, an indenting servant and tailor, about 21 years of age, 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high, and had on a bearskin coat, jacket, and breeches. Whoever takes up the said runaways, and delivers them to me, in Dumfries, or secures them so that I get them again, shall receive EIGHTEEN DOLLARS reward. ANDREW LEITCH.
TAKEN up, near Great Guinea creek, in Gumbelrand, an iron grey mare colt, 4 feet 2 inches high, neither docked or branded, has a white spot on her left buttock, and a blaze in her face; potted, and appraised to 21. 10s. Also a forrel mare colt, 4 feet high, neither docked or branded, her left hind foot white, and has a blaze in her face. Appraised to 21. ( ) HARTWELL MACON.
TAKEN up, in Amelia, a bay mare, about 10 or 11 years old, between 4 feet 8 and 9 inches high, switch mane and tail, a star in her forehead, her near hind foot white, and a small part of her near fore foot, several saddle spots on her back, and no perceivable brand. Potted, and appraised to 11. Apply to the subscriber in Prince George county. ( ) JOHN THWEAT.
TAKEN up, in Halifax, on Sandy Creek, a black mare, about 4 feet 6 inches high, branded on the near buttock O, and on the near shoulder f, in which some white hairs are grown out, has a half crop in her right ear, a star in her forehead, some saddle spots, a short tail, and hanging mane, trots indifferently, and appears to be old. Appraised to 51. ( ) THOMAS DIXON.
THE subscriber intending for England, would be glad to dispose of the house he now lives in, with the lot and other improvements thereon; the situation is in the most public part of the city, and the house well calculated for any business. To any person inclined to become a purchaser the payments will be made easy, on giving bond, and good security; or it will be sold on an annuity, as may best suit the parties. 3 EDWARD CHARLTON.
Just imported, in the last ships from London, and to be sold by the subscriber in Williamsburg, on reasonable terms, AGENTEEEL assortment of MILLINERY, LACES, Dresden SUITS, SILKS, JEWELLERY, and sundry other articles, all in the newest fashion. As I find it necessary to go for England in the spring, it is hoped those ladies and gentlemen who have favoured me with their orders, and have not discharged them, will be kind enough to make payment as early as possible, that I may be enabled to put my designs in execution; which will greatly add to the many obligations already conferred on their humble servant, JANE CHARLTON.
WILLIAMSBURG, November 9, 1774. BEING informed that several gentlemen who have been pleased to favour my salt scheme by subscribing to the encouragement of it, decline paying their money till they can receive a proper assurance that the salt I make shall not be engrossed by merchants, or others, who may intend to retail to the subscribers of this colony at an advanced price, that I may give the fullest testimony of my inclinations to make the scheme as extensively useful as possible, I do hereby oblige myself to conform to any measures or regulations, that may be adopted to secure a preference and preemption to them of what salt may be made at the intended works. Several gentlemen of credit have proposed a partnership with me, in order to prosecute a plan with greater success, and to a large extent; but not being able to advance any proportion of a common stock, my admission into partnership cannot be expected on such terms as would enable me to maintain my family, and draw a moderate profit to myself. If the subscribers should approve of my entering into a partnership, and applying their contributions as my part of the stock, I am persuaded it would be the likeliest means of expediting and carrying on the business with greater advantage to the community. However in this, as in every other measure, I shall cheerfully acquiesce in their determination. JAMES TAIT.
AUGUST 4, 1774. PURSUANT to a decree of the high court of chancery of Great Britain, the children of James Henty, who was the nephew of Hugh Henty, late of the jewel office, in the tower of London, gentleman, who died on the 10th of September, 1768, and the children of Eleanor and Jane, sisters of the said Hugh Henty, deceased, are peremptorily to come in and claim their shares of the clear residue of the personal estate of the said Hugh Henty, deceased, before Thomas Harris, esquire, one of the masters of the said court, at his chambers in Lincoln's Inn, London, before the 25th day of March next; or, in default thereof, they will be excluded the benefit of the said decree. [Three weeks]
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at Belvoir, on Potowomack river, the late seat of the honourable George William Fairfax, esquire, on Monday the 5th day of December next, ALL the genteel FURNITURE of two rooms, and KITCHEN FURNITURE, eight or ten HORSES, all his flock of HOGS, and part of his CATTLE and SHEEP, together with the PLANTATION UTENSILS, three WAGGONS, and fifty BARRELS of FISH. Purchasers of more than five pounds will have credit till the 15th day of August next, on giving bond, with approved security, paying interest from the date, if the principal should not be discharged within forty days after it becomes due. At the same time and place will be rented, to the highest bidder, a small PLANTATION, for one year, and two very fine FISHERIES, for a term of years; the MANSION HOUSE, OUT HOUSES, GARDEN, ORCHARDS, and PLANTATION, with a sufficient quantity of LAND to suit the tenant, will also be let for a term of years. Any person inclined may rent the dwellinghouse before the day of sale, and know the terms by applying to 5 FRANCIS WILLIS, junior.
To be SOLD, pursuant to an act of assembly, on Monday the 5th of December next, being Prince William court day, at the courthouse, in the town of Dumfries,
THE GLEBE LANDS of Dettingen parish, in the said county, adjoining Westwood, the seat of the reverend Mr. James Scott, the present incumbent, situate on Quantico Run, about 9 miles from Dumfries and Aquia. The soil is good for wheat or tobacco; and there may be got some meadow on the same. Six months credit will be given by THE CHURCHWARDENS.
YORK town, June 9, 1773. THE subscribers being very solicitous to comply with the will of their testator, the late Honourable William Nelson, desire that all persons who were indebted to him will endeavour to make as speedy payments as possible. Those who have accounts open on his books, and who cannot immediately discharge the balances, are desired to give their bonds. This request is the more necessary, as most of the legacies bequeathed by the testator are to be paid in sterling money, and he has directed that his younger sons fortunes shall be placed out at interest upon undoubted securities, so soon as it can be done. Those who have any demands are desired to make them immediately known. THOMAS NELSON, HUGH NELSON, THOMAS NELSON, jun. RO. C. NICHOLAS.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, a bay mare colt, 3 years old last spring, 2 hind feet white, a star in her forehead, about 4 feet 6 inches high, and branded on the near buttock T G, as near as can be made out. Potted, and appraised to 81. WILLIAM BARTLETT.
RUN away from on board a small schooner, called the Kingston, just below Four Mile Creek, a tall, slim, thin visaged man, who goes by the name of William Griffin; had on a black yarn waistcoat, and a wilton one under it, a check shirt, and osnabrig trousers. He has very sore legs. Took out of my chest a pocket book, containing eight or ten pounds in cash, a silver stockbuckle, a brooch, and a note of hand from Godfrey Walker, at Richmond, for 21. 9s. 9d. Whoever will take up the said fellow, and bring him to me, in Warwick county, near the courthouse, or commit him to the great gaol, shall receive FIVE POUNDS. (3) PETER RIDLEY.
To be SOLD, for ready money, by the executors of Newton Keene, deceased, pursuant to his last will, by public auction, to the highest bidder, on Monday the 29th of November next, if fair, otherwise the next fair day, at the place called Newgate, in the county of Loudoun,
A TRACT of valuable LAND, lying in the said county, adjoining to the said place called Newgate, and partly bounded by the Mountain road, containing about 1400 acres; about 100 acres whereof are under a lease for one or two lives, at a small yearly rent. There is only one small plantation, and but very little ground cleared thereon. It has a considerable quantity of ground upon it, fit for improving into meadow, and is extremely well watered and timbered. This land is very conveniently situated, being only 25 miles from Alexandria, 23 from Dumfries, and 18 from Colchester, and has a merchant mill within less than a mile of it. Newgate is a very public place, and well situated for trade and public house keeping. Deeds will be executed on the day of sale. There will also be sold, by the said executors, for ready money, at public sale, on Monday the 9th of January next, if fair, otherwise the next fair day, the late dwelling plantation of the said Newton Keene, in Northumberland county, TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born N E G R O E S, BELONGING TO HIS ESTATE. RICHARD LEE, } Executors. DAVID BOYD, }
THE death of Mr. Hugh McKim, late of Norfolk, renders it absolutely necessary that the business carried on by him there, by Mr. Matthew Anderson in King & Queen, and by Mr. Christopher Pryor at Gloucester courthouse, be discontinued. All persons, therefore, who are indebted for dealings with either of these gentlemen, on account of Messieurs John McDowell and company, of Glasgow, are earnestly requested to discharge their respective balances immediately. Those who have it not in their power to make payment will, it is expected, grant bond. Messieurs Anderson and Pryor will give constant attendance for that purpose, who are authorized to receive and grant discharges. The goods on hand at King & Queen and Gloucester courthouse, amounting to about 15001. sterling, will be sold, and the time of payment made as easy to the purchaser as the hardness of the times will admit of. As most of these goods were imported last spring, they are fresh, look well, and are tolerably well assorted. There are likewise on hand a cargo of goods, adapted for the present season, just imported in the Bland, captain Danby, from London, and Funs, captain McCann, from Glasgow, amounting to between 10001. and 12001. sterling. For terms apply to Messieurs John Johnson and Archibald Gowan at Page's, Mr. Simon Fraser at Urbananna, Mr. Matthew Anderson in King & Queen, or to BENNETT BROWNE, Attorney in fact For Messieurs JOHN McDOWELL and company.
RUN away, about the middle of September, a negro fellow named JACK, about 35 years old, and about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, blind of one eye, and is clothed as negroes generally are. TEN SHILLINGS will be given to any person that will bring him to me, near Williamsburg. ANDREW ESTAVE.
RUN away from the subscriber, about the 20th of April last, a mulatto fellow named PETER BROWN, a painter by trade, but can do carpenter's work; he is 35 or 40 years of age, of a dark complexion, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, slim made, has a thin visage, several of his upper foreteeth are out, is fond of singing, which he can do very well, and is a remarkable fine whistler. The said fellow has several suits of cloaths, therefore I cannot describe his dress. He was some years past tried for a robbery, but obtained the governor's pardon, on suffering one year's imprisonment; after that he was sold to Mr. John Fox, of Gloucester, with whom he lived one or two years; he then ran away, and passed for a free man in the counties of King William, Caroline, and Hanover, where he was taken up and brought home. As he has a wife at Mr. Benjamin Hubbard's, it is likely he may be lurking in that neighbourhood; and as he was raised in Petersburg, it is probable he may be about there. Whoever will take up the said runaway, and deliver him to me, at O'borne's, shall receive FORTY SHILLINGS reward. All persons are forbid harbouring or carrying him out of the colony. PETERFIELD TRENT.
PURSUANT to a decree of the honourable the general court, and by letter of attorney from colonel George Mercer, of Virginia, now in London, will be sold, at public auction, about 3500 acres of LAND, in the county of Loudoun, near West's ordinary, about 12 miles from Leesburg, 40 from Alexandria, and 35 from Dumfries, on Potowomack. This land is well known by the description of the Bull Run Mountains, and is very fertile. Also 6500 acres on Shenandoah river, in the county of Frederick, opposite to Snicker's ordinary, and binding on the river about 7 miles. As this tract is part of a survey, one of the first in that part of the colony, its quality cannot be questioned; it is well watered, will admit of 2 mills on land streams, and others on the river. There are now in it 6 plantations, well improved for cropping, 120 slaves, and very large and choice flocks of horses (some of the dry breed) black cattle, hogs, and sheep, which, together with the crops of corn and wheat now growing (expected to be upwards of 2000 barrels, and 5000 bushels) will be sold, on the premises, on the 24th of November next, or next fair day. The Loudoun lands will be sold at West's ordinary on the 21st day of the same month, and both tracts laid off in lots to suit every purchaser, who may see them by applying to Mr. Francis Peyton, living near the Loudoun lands, and Mr. William Dawson, who resides on the Shenandoah tract. Among the slaves are 2 good blacksmiths, 2 carpenters, and an exceeding trusty and skillful waggoner. The aged black cattle and grown hogs will be fattened for slaughter. Purchasers above 251. will be allowed credit for 12 months, on giving bond and security to the subscribers, who will be prepared to make conveyances. JOHN TAYLOR, GEORGE WASHINGTON.
NEW YORK, July 27, 1774. FIFTY POUNDS REWARD.
WHEREAS on the 19th of June last past a certain JOSEPH THORP was entrusted with a considerable sum in half johannes, of nine penny weight, to be delivered by him at Quebec, and as he has not yet made his appearance there, with other suspicious circumstances, it is apprehended he is gone off with the money. He is a native of England, about 6 feet high, swarthy complexion, very dark, keen eyes, and pitted with the smallpox, of a slender make, stoops as he walks, talks rather slow, and has some small impediment in his speech. He lived some time in Boston, from whence he removed to Quebec, assuming the character of a merchant in both places; he was also once in trade in Newcastle, Virginia, and has a brother settled there. It is believed he went on board captain John F. Pruym, for Albany, and took with him a blue casimir, and a dark brown cloth suit of clothes. Whoever secures the said Joseph Thorp in any of his majesty's gaols on this continent shall be entitled to ten per cent. on the sum recovered, and the above reward of 501. when convicted. Apply to Cusson and Seton of New York, Joseph Wharton, junior, of Philadelphia, Robert Christie of Baltimore, James Gibson and company of Virginia, John Bondfield of Quebec, Matlath Bourne, or John Rowe, of Boston. It is requested of those who may have seen this Joseph Thorp since the 19th of June last past, or know any thing of the route he has taken, that they convey the most early intelligence thereof to any of the above persons, or Greenwood, Rison, and Marsh, in Norfolk, or to Mr. Robert Pleasants and company, at Four Mile creek, Henrico county; the favour will be gratefully acknowledged. All masters of vessels are forewarned from taking him off the continent.
NORFOLK, October 4, 1774. THE directors of the LIGHTHOUSE are desirous to engage immediately with some person to carry a quantity of stone from Cape Henry to the place whereon the lighthouse is to be fixed, about one mile and a half distance. tf
BASSETT MOSELEY. WANTED for the lighthouse directors eight second hand ANCHORS, nearly a thousand weight each. Any person having such for sale are desired to make their terms known to the subscriber in Norfolk. t. f. BASSETT MOSELEY.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, a chestnut sorrel mare, about 4 feet, 6 inches and an half high, has a switch tail, and hanging mane, some saddle spots, branded on the near buttock I G, and is about 5 or 6 years old. Potted, and appraised to 121. ( ) THOMAS JOHNSON, Minor.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, a young bay horse, about 4 feet 4 inches high, about three years old, and branded on the near buttock T T Potted, and appraised to 71. ( ) JOSEPH ALLEN.
FOR SALE, NINE hundred and forty acres of valuable land, lying on both sides of Contrary River, in Louisa, with three plantations thereon, two of which has sufficient houses for overseers and negroes; the other is improved with all necessary buildings, and orchards of all kinds, fit for the reception of a gentleman, the houses being finished in the best manner. This tract is well timbered and watered, lies within 32 miles of Fredericksburg, and 43 of Page's warehouse; there are at least 400 acres of low grounds, of the best soil, 300 of which are now to cut. The three plantations are under good fences, and in good order to work 12 or 15 hands. Robert Fleming, John Massey, and John Lain, are now in possession of the plantations, who will shew the land to any person inclined to purchase, and Major Thomas Johnson will agree with them for the price. The above tract is esteemed the most valuable in Louisa for growing corn, wheat, or tobacco, and situated in the best range for stock of any below the great mountains. (tf 1*)
FOR SALE, AND VERY CHEAP, A PLANTATION in good order for cropping, none of the land having been cleared above six years, with all necessary houses, quite new, together with 1500 acres of exceeding rich land, the soil of which is so good that it will bring large tobacco for five or six years without dung. I have made on this plantation above three thousand pounds of tobacco per share. The place is very healthy, and has a fine range for stock. This land lies in the lower end of Buckingham county, near to Appomattox river, on each side of Great Ducker's and Mayo creeks. Tobacco has been carried above this land near to Petersburg by water, and last month, in the dry weather, two canoe loads of wheat were carried near to Petersburg, and the canoes brought back; they were loaded but a little below this land. I make no doubt but Appomattox river will be soon cleared, and then the expence of sending wheat, tobacco, &c. will be trifling. Any person inclined to purchase will see, by the produce of the land, that it is exceeding rich. I really do not know any better high land in the colony. This tract of land is well timbered, and has excellent water on it. I do not know a better place for a merchant mill than is on Ducker's creek. People are going much on raising wheat in these parts, and a good mill would be very advantageous to the owner. Also another tract of land of 826 acres, in Albemarle county, I believe about ten miles from the courthouse, joining Mr. James Harris and the quarters of Mr. John Winston. On this land is a small plantation, a good apple orchard, &c. The land is good, and my price so low, that I am convinced any person who viewed either of the above tracts of land would not hesitate to give the price I shall ask. Neither of these tracts are under any incumbrance whatsoever. A reasonable time of payment will be allowed. tf ANTHONY WINSTON.
For S A L E, A TRACT of land, on Charles river, York county, containing about 600 acres, part of which is marsh, that may be drained with very little expence. The situation of this place is very convenient for a family, as it lies upon a river that abounds with oysters and fine fish, particularly sheepsheads; it is within 200 yards of a mill, and 2 miles of the church. My reason for selling it is, my having bought a tract of land more convenient to me. Whoever inclines to purchase may know the terms by applying to the subscriber, in York town. THOMAS NELSON, junior.
TO BE RENTED, FROM YEAR TO YEAR, OR FOR A TERM OF YEARS, B E L V O I R, THE beautiful seat of the honourable George William Fairfax, esquire, lying upon Potowomack river, in Fairfax county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four convenient rooms and a large passage upon the lower floor, five rooms and a passage on the second, and a servants hall and cellars below; convenient offices, stables, and coach house, adjoining, as also a large and well furnished garden, stored with great variety of valuable fruits, in good order. Appertaining to the tract on which these improvements are, and which contains near 2000 acres (surrounded, in a manner, by navigable water) are several valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land in different parts, which may be let altogether, or separately, as shall be found most convenient. The terms may be known of Colonel Washington, who lives near the premises, or of me, in Berkeley county, tf FRANCIS WILLIS, junior.
FOR SALE, ABOUT twelve thousand acres of exceeding rich TOBACCO LAND, in Amherst county, whereon are several plantations and improvements sufficient to work forty or fifty hands. There is on this land for sale a very valuable GRIST MILL, lately built, with a stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILLSTONES, which mill has for two years past got upwards of 100 barrels of toll corn, and is situated on a never failing stream. The land will be shewn by William Womack, who lives at one of the plantations, and the prices of the land made known by him. One or two years credit will be allowed, interest being paid for the second year, and also for the first, if the money is not paid agreeable to contract. The land is to be laid off and surveyed by Colonel William Cabell, at the expence of the purchaser. Deeds will be made, upon bond and approved security being given, either to Call, William Cabell, or the subscriber. Six per cent. discount will be allowed for ready money, or good merchants notes. Any person would chuse to exchange lands in the low part of the country, on or near some navigable river that are good, it is more than probable we should agree CARTER BRAXTON.