The Virginia gazette (Williamsburg, Va.), 1775-08-18 00:00:00

VIRGINIA
GAZETTE.
ALWAYS FOR LIBERTY.
AND THE PUBLICK GOOD.
ALEXANDER PURDIE, PRINTER.
BASSETERRE (St. Christopher's) July 22.
WE have it from undoubted authority, that a gentleman of worth and eminence in London has wrote to his manager in Nevis to put 30 acres of cane land immediately into yams, potatoes, and cassada, and to allot some land adjoining negro huts to the slaves, that country produce may be raised as early as possible. His letter contains directions for his attorney not to interfere in the matter. Several planters in Nevis and Antigua are pursuing the same plan.
CAMBRIDGE, July 27.
LAST tuesday came to town from Philadelphia, and joined the army of the united colonies, a company of 106 rifle-men. Many hundreds more are daily expected.
WORCESTER, July 26.
INFORMATION is given to general Gage of matters in our army, &c. by persons in womens clothing, but who or what they were is not known to our informant. Gage's army was thought to be 9000 strong, but greatly intimidated. The regiments that arrived last at Boston were as follows, viz. Light dragoons, 17th, col. George Preston, 120 men. Foot, 35th, col. Henry Campbell; 49th, Alexander Maitland; 63d, Francis Grant, 420 men each. Regiments destined for New York, but ordered to Boston by Gage: The 22d, general Thomas Gage; 40th, sir Robert Hamilton; 44th, James Abercrombie, killed at Bunker's hill; 45th, William Haviland, 420 each. The whole number of the king's troops lately arrived at Boston, 3060.
HARTFORD, July 31.
LAST wednesday week major Skeene came to town, from Philadelphia; and in the evening, he, with his son, who has been some time past in this place, took leave of the town without liberty. We hear they have taken a house in Middletown, near the water side. As the major appears to be an inveterate enemy to us, and will doubtless watch every opportunity to make his escape, it is hoped our friends in that place will keep a watchful eye over him.
Last week one Heron, who was sent under guard from New York, was brought to this town, and committed to close confinement in the common jail, for assisting one mr. Lundy (who came passenger in the same ship with the major) in making his escape.
Yesterday major Clark's company of volunteers passed through this town, to join the American army at Cambridge. They are the first company of the last recruits raised by this colony that have marched for their station, and are provided with excellent fire-arms, &c. made in the town of Farmingham, to which they belonged.
Last wednesday col. Skeene was removed from Middletown to a very commodious and pleasantly situated house in the West Society, in this town.
Hartford is a Town in Connecticut on Connecticut River, & Middletown is on the same River, a little below it with one field
PROVIDENCE, July 22.
A PERSON who came out of Boston last thursday informs, that the price current of beef is 1s. 4d. per lb. butter 1s. and that for a calf 20 dollars had been given. That on the 7th of June 100 of the inhabitants were impressed, but had been since mostly released. That the refugee tories are taken but little notice of by either party; some of them are employed in Gage's service, and do duty in the night. That eight transports arrived there last week, supposed to have on board about 200 men each; one of the regiments consisted only of three companies. That the regulars are about 9000 strong, but greatly intimidated. That the enemy keep a serjeant's guard of horse at Roxbury lines; and that the inhabitants are allowed to do business, and to be out till 10 o'clock in the evening, but are not permitted to speak with the soldiers.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman at Cambridge, July 16.
"We find, by a person who came out of Boston since the affair at Long Island, that our people were a little too late; had they landed on the island one or two hours sooner, they would have found there, on a frolick, the commissioners of the customs, &c. &c. with a number of ladies, who must have fallen into their hands. The troops in Boston are very sickly; from 10 to 30 have died per day, for 15 or 20 days back; the inhabitants likewise grow sickly. Gage's doors are besieged from day to day with the cries of the distressed inhabitants, whose sufferings are unparallelled."
NEWPORT, July 21.
FROM last tuesday, about 2 o'clock, till near the same hour on the next day, this town was threatened to be fired upon from the three ships of war in this harbour, viz. the Rose, capt. Wallace, the Swan, capt. Ayscough, and Kingsfisher, capt. Montague, and also a tender; for which purpose these ships were brought close in with the north-west part of the town, on tuesday, toward night. Their tomkins were immediately taken out, and all the apparent preparations made for cannonading the town, which greatly terrified women and children, especially those women who were with child. In the evening lanthorns and men were placed at the guns, and the most hostile appearance kept up which it was possible for them to exhibit; and many women and children were running about, wringing their hands and crying, in the greatest distress. About half past 9 at night a cannon was discharged from the Rose, when the women really thought the firing on the town was begun, many of whom fainted away, and went into fits; and a number, we are told, absolutely miscarried by the fright. However, this gun was loaded with powder only, and the men of war gave out to a number of persons, whom they had stopped coming down the river, that they
should not beat the town down till next morning, when they would certainly do it. In the morning the like terrifick scene was opened by firing another cannon, and seizing on four ferry-boats, one passage-boat, with a number of passengers, and two wood sloops. The Swan moved down toward the south part of the town, where she anchored, with her guns pointing diagonally across the wharves, so as to rake from thence up to the parade and courthouse. Here again all the tomkins were out; quantities of tar, and other inflammatory and combustible matter, were put into the ferry-boats, in order, as was said, with horrid cursing and damning, to set on fire, and send into the town to burn it, as a more expeditious way of destroying the town than by cannon only.
At the same time these boats were to be sent into the town, a number of men were to be landed at the south end, to set fire on that part. Thus the most warlike and hostile parade was kept up to the highest degree, till near 2 o'clock on wednesday; when, all at once, the boats were discharged, the ships weighed anchor, and stood up the river. The same evening the Rose got ashore, on the north part of this island; but by taking out her guns, &c. she was got off, and the next day they all came down again to their old station.
We know not of even the shadow of a just reason for the above inhuman conduct. If the captains of said ships have any reasons to offer, we should be very glad to publish them to the world. The story about two of the Swan's men being seized by a mob in this town, gagged, carried to Bristol jail, &c. had it not been absolutely disproved, would have been a most wretched pretext for firing on a defenceless town, in which there were not less than 6000 women and children. This story we hope to publish more at large, when we can obtain the letters which passed, and the affidavits which were taken, concerning the same.
N. B. It must have been well known to the commanders of these ships, that there was not a single cannon in this town mounted for its defence.
NEW YORK, July 31.
CAPT. Lowndes from Dominica, and capt. Hodge from St. Kitts, confirm the accounts brought by capt. M'Aroy, with this addition, that a ship had arrived at St. Eustatia from Amsterdam, with the same news; that the French at Martinico were so apprehensive of a rupture with Great Britain that they were purchasing all the small vessels they could get, in order to fit them out as privateers; that the inhabitants of Barbados, &c. had refused selling provisions to the French, neither would they purchase any more negroes, lest they should not be able to find them provisions, those they had already being in danger of starving.

Captain Miller arrived at St. Eustatia from Amsterdam a few days before capt. Shaw sailed, and assured him that the states of Holland were busy in equipping a fleet of 32 sail of the line, that eight of them were ready for the sea before he sailed, and it was supposed they intended to act against the Spaniards; that all the captains of the Dutch ships in the different ports of the West Indies had orders to make the best of their way home, and to be vigilant on their voyage.
From good authority we learn, that the French in the West India islands intend to fit out several fishing vessels for the banks of Newfoundland, which in all probability may cut out work for some of our English men of war.
August 3. On tuesday last arrived here, accompanied by several young gentlemen, volunteers from Maryland and Pennsylvania, col. Thompson of the Pennsylvania regiment of rifle-men; and yesterday they proceeded on their journey to his excellency general Washington's camp, at Cambridge.
PHILADELPHIA, August 1. Extract of a letter from Chester county, July 31.
I HAVE been just informed, by an officer in this county, of the following melancholy event which happened there yesterday. As the Chester companies were returning from escorting the powder which lately arrived, one of them in the ranks, being intoxicated, behaved very indecently; for which he was severely reprimanded, and ordered out of the ranks, but he refused. He still continued his rudeness, so that the officers were obliged to confine him in a smith's shop, near capt. Bryan's. Shortly after this, major Lloyd and mr. Daniel Culins, a serjeant in one of the Ridley companies, went to release him; and as soon as they opened the door, this unfeeling wretch presented his musket at them, saying, that he did not care whether he lived or died, and immediately fired upon them, when the load unhappily passed through mr. Culins's head, as he leaned over major Lloyd's shoulder, which in a moment put an end to his life. As the musket was charged with small shot, several other persons were slightly injured; one gentleman in particular received a wound in one of his eyes.
"I cannot help observing, with some degree of pleasure, that this unhappy man was no associator, nor did he ever appear in the ranks before."
Extract of a letter from London, May 31.
"I cannot let capt. Hazlewood depart without sketching a few lines to you. You will find by the papers, that we have received an account from Salem of the defeat of col. Smith and the precipitate retreat of lord Percy, by the animated resistance of the brave Bostonians. This intelligence, so contrary to the expectations of government, who have daily announced the Americans cowards, has panick-struck administration, and their tory dependents, and has exhilarated the spirits of the sons of America in this metropolis, and the friends to freedom, in the most exalted manner. It is impossible to describe the shame and vexation which are visibly depicted in the countenance of North and his tyrannical abettors. They are constrained to acknowledge that the regulars began the attack, and equally forced to admit the intrepidity of our countrymen; but what alarms them most is the expectation of hourly receiving advice of the whole of general Gage's army being cut off, or meanly sheltering themselves on board the men of war, or in the castle. God grant their total extirpation! Government has not yet received any despatches from the general; he has craved a suspension of animadversions on the news, until he can refute or is compelled to authenticate it. In the mean-time, stocks have had a shock; and the people, every where, de-
nounce vengeance against Bute, Mansfield, North, Sandwich, and their ignominious adherents. I impatiently wait the next intelligence, as I have no doubt we shall hear of farther significant manifestations of American prowess, founded in that principle which God and their right will inspire them with."
Extract of a letter from an officer now at Boston, dated at Plymouth, March 28, 1775.
"Our regiment is now under orders for Ireland. Before this, I dare say you have altered your opinion both of lord North and his measures. I never was so violently incensed against him as at present. Most of the honest and independent men of Great Britain are in the opposition; and, God knows, they are but a few! The influence of treasury and civil list beats down all before it, and I fear will crush America by its weight; and so corrupt is the present House of Commons, that I verily believe, were lord North a professed atheist, that he might, with the civil list in the one hand, and the treasury in the other, have a bill passed the house to make every species of religion treason or rebellion; and that the bishops in the other house would readily concur in the measure, provided they were to have douceurs equivalent to their present benefices. I do not know how it happens, but I feel myself much interested in the welfare of America, probably because they are struggling there for that freedom we seem to have given up on this side of the Atlantic."
August 3. Yesterday the hon. Continental Congress adjourned to the 5th of September next, then to meet in this city.
The hon. Continental Congress have appointed doctor FRANKLIN postmaster-general of the united colonies of North America; and Michael Hillegas, and George Clymer, esquires, of this city, treasurers.
We hear from Boston, that general Howe (who is on Bunker's hill) has promised general Gage to attack and carry the provincial lines, provided he will send him from Boston a reinforcement of 30,000 men, for he thinks less will not do.
Extract of a letter from Cambridge, July 21.
"We have been in a state of perfect quiet for these several days, both armies being so well intrenched that they may look with confidence at each other. Doctor Winship, who attended the sick and wounded after the battle at Charlestown, and lived in the same house with the commanding officer of the marines, has given us a precise account of the number of the killed and wounded on the side of the enemy. He assures us we may depend on its being more, not less, than 1043, of whom 300 fell on the field, or died in a few hours; many of the wounded have since died, through confinement to salt provisions. General Gage exercises a most uncommon severity over those inhabitants of Boston whom he distrusts and detains. Beef, of the most miserable kind, is eagerly bought up at 1s. sterling per pound. Fish they have in general plenty, but all accounts agree in a great mortality in their army by fevers and fluxes. On our side, we are amply provided with fresh and salt provisions, and all manner of vegetables; the army in high spirits, and eager to retrieve the honour they lost on Bunker's hill."
"P. S. Since I wrote the above, an account has come in that our people had burnt the light-house, at the entrance of Boston harbour, taken away all the furniture, 50 wt. of powder, and some other small matters. Though done with great risk, not one was either killed or wounded." Extract of a letter from Braintree, Massachusetts Bay, July 16.
"I am much surprised that you have not been more accurately informed of what passes in the camps. As to intelligence from Boston, it is but seldom we
are able to collect any that may be relied on, and to repeat the vague flying rumours would be endless. I heard yesterday by one mr. Roulston, a goldsmith, who got out of Boston in a fishing schooner, that their distress increases upon them very fast; their beef is spent, their malt and cider all gone. All the fresh provisions they can procure they are obliged to give to the sick and wounded. That 13 of our men who were in jail, and were wounded at Charlestown, are dead. That no man dared to be seen talking to his friend in the street. That they are obliged to be at home every evening by 10 o'clock, according to martial law; nor can any inhabitant walk the street after that time, without a pass from Gage. That Gage has ordered all the molasses to be distilled into rum, for the soldiers. That he has taken away all licenses for selling of liquors, and given them to his creatures. That he has issued an order that no one else shall sell, under a penalty of 10l. That the spirit which prevails among the soldiers is that of malice and revenge, and that there is no true courage to be observed among them. That their duty is hard, always holding themselves in readiness for an attack, which they are in continual fear of. That doctor Elliot was not on board of a man of war, as was reported. Mr. Lovel and Leach, with many others, are certainly in jail. That last week a poor milch cow was killed in town, and sold for 1s. sterling a pound. That the transports from Ireland and New York arrived last week, but every additional man adds to their distress."
Extract of a letter from Watertown, Massachusetts Bay, July 20.
"Our new Assembly met yesterday, and only chose a speaker and clerk. I shall now endeavour to inform you what has happened in the military way since my last. The attempts on Long Island, the taking off all the stock, and afterwards returning to burn the buildings, &c. (which you will have in the papers) was certainly a bold intrepid manœuvre, and as such astonished our enemies. The barges, full of armed men, were afraid to attack our whale-boats at a proper distance; and the armed vessels, either agitated by fear, or destitute of judgment, did it without execution. The next thing that took place was the possessing and fortifying a post by Browne's house on the Neck, near their lines. This has been effected with the loss of only one man, and he not employed there, though they worked in open sight of them, and were exposed to an incessant fire from their cannon, which our people treated with the extremest contempt, not so much as leaving their work or firing a shot. No general movement has taken place. There was an appearance of one the day before yesterday, on the Roxbury side, but they disappointed general Thomas, who commanded there, and made an excellent disposition to receive them. Roxbury is amazingly strong. I believe it would puzzle 10,000 troops to go through it, I mean of the best in the world."
"I am just told that our boats have this day been to the light-house and burnt it, in spite of the firing from the men of war, and a number of boats. I hear it was executed by 300 Rhode Islanders, without any loss. It is said they are more afraid of our whale-boats than we are of their men of war; and a few armed vessels, I am well convinced, would produce great consequences."
August 5. Yesterday evening capt. Clay arrived here from London, who has brought papers to the 2d of June, which contain nothing material. A passenger, who left London the 8th of June, informs us, that the papers had not mentioned the arrival of any despatch from general Gage, and that it was not known

whether government had adopted any fresh measures of importance concerning America; notwithstanding lord North, and the earls of Rochford and Dartmouth, had a conference at Buckingham house the day after the arrival of the provincial express, and have had them frequently since.
General Gage, it is said, has resigned the command of the troops to general Howe.
Capt. Doodle's company of rifle-men, from York county, in this province, soon after their arrival at the provincial camp near Boston, observing a transport in Myslick river, informed general Washington, that only 30 of them would engage to take her. The general received them politely, commended their resolution, and said he had no occasion for the vessel at present.
It is said the lord mayor, and principal citizens of London, hearing that government were determined to exert themselves to the utmost against America, both by land and sea, particularly the latter, had agreed to have a meeting of the court of aldermen and common council, in order to consult upon embodying and properly training the city militia, which amounts to about 8000, for the preservation of their own liberty, as well as that of America. Administration, it is also said, have agreed to increase the pay of the soldiers, for which purpose 50,000l. is sent to Boston; and that the governor of Canada, with the Canadians, is to attack the frontiers.
We are credibly informed, that general Burgoyne has lately shewn every appearance of a deep settled melancholy, is continually walking the streets of Boston with his arms folded across his breast, and talking to himself.
We are also informed, that general Gage and admiral Greaves have publickly quarrelled. Admiral Greaves having told Gage it was a cowardly action to burn Charlestown, Gage sharply replied, he should not consult him in such matters.
WILLIAMSBURG, August 18. FROM unquestionable authority, we can assure the publick that forty tuns of GUNPOWDER have been lately imported into Philadelphia, six tuns and a half of which were sent to the continental camp, and one tun to Virginia; also, that the colonies may depend upon a constant supply of that very useful commodity, at this juncture.
Letters from the camp at Cambridge say, that his excellency general WASHINGTON, as well as general LEE, have been indefatigable, ever since their arrival, to put the army under the best regulation, which is now very strongly intrenched, remarkably healthy, being abundantly supplied with provisions, and that the most perfect harmony subsists between the officers and men. The ministerial camp is likewise strongly fortified, so that there was no likelihood of there being a general engagement soon.
We congratulate the publick on there being soon to be established, throughout the united colonies, a safe, speedy, and reasonable CHANNEL of INTELLIGENCE, upon constitutional principles, under the direction of that unshaken patriot, the celebrated doctor FRANKLIN, who is appointed sole postmaster-general by the Continental Congress.
Capt. Hill, from Boston, informs, that just before his departure a brig arrived there from Virginia, with pork and live stock, which was delivered to the king's contractor. The master (whose name he has forgot) is a slim man, about 5 feet 8 inches high, of a dark complexion, wore his own dark hair, and light coloured sagathy clothes. The brig was about 100 tuns burthen, with yellow sides, came from James river (the captain believes
from Norfolk) and was cleared out for Jamaica. Captain Hill asked the mate of the brig, if any of his hands had been pressed; who answered in the negative, for that the business they came upon was of such a nature as prevented it.
THOMAS NELSON, THOMAS JEFFERSON, GEORGE WYTHE, and FRANCIS LIGHTFOOT LEE, esquires, are chosen delegates to represent this colony in General Congress, on the 5th of next month, in the room of his excellency general WASHINGTON, commander in chief of the continental army, PATRICK HENRY, esq; appointed to the command of the troops to be raised for the defence of this colony, and EDMUND PENDLETON and RICHARD BLAND, esquires, who have resigned, upon account of their infirm state of health.
WILLIAM WOODFORD, esq; of Caroline county, is appointed by the Hon. the General Convention colonel of the second battalion of troops to be raised for the defence of this colony; and capt. JOSEPH NEAVILL, of Hampshire, is appointed commander of the troops to be stationed at Fort Pitt.
Tuesday last, the 15th instant, being the anniversary of the TRANSFER DAY, a sermon was preached in the college chapel by the reverend mr. Bracken; afterwards the president, masters, and scholars, convened in the hall, when the two medals adjudged a few days before, one to mr. JOHN WHITE, for his superior skill in the mathemricks and natural philosophy, the other to mr. THOMAS EVANS, as a prize due to the best classick scholar, were delivered to those young gentlemen, with a congratulatory Latin speech, by the president. Mr. EVANS then ascended the rostrum, and pronounced a Latin oration in praise of the founders and benefactors. Mr. WHITE afterwards pronounced one in English, setting forth the advantages of education, and the grateful memory of the founders. Lastly, mr. GRANVILLE SMITH pronounced a Latin oration, on the same subject as mr. EVANS.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
WILLIAMSBURG, August 18, 1775. THE subscriber begs leave to acquaint the ladies and gentlemen, that on friday next, at Mr. Blovet Pasteur's, in this city, she intends opening a DANCING SCHOOL, and hopes to be favoured with the instruction of their daughters in that genteel accomplishment. As she is resolved to spare no pains with her scholars, she does not doubt of being able to give entire satisfaction. Her days for teaching are fridays and saturdays, every week; and her price is 20s. at entrance, and 4l. a year.
SARAH HALLAM.
A letter from general BURGoyne, in answer to one wrote him by general LEE.
Dear Sir, BOSTON, July 9, 1775. WHEN we were last together in service, I should not have thought it within the vicissitude of human affairs that we should meet at any time, or in any sense, as foes. The letter you have honoured me with, and my own feelings, combine to prove we are still far from being personally such.
I claim no merit from the attentions you so kindly remember, but as they manifest how much it was my pride to be known for your friend; nor have I departed from the duties of that character when I will not scruple to say it has been almost general offence to maintain it, I mean since the violent part you have taken in the commotion of the colonies. It would exceed the limits and propriety of our present correspondence to argue, at full, the great cause in which we are engaged; but, anxious to preserve a consistent and ingenuous character, and jealous, I confess, of having the part I sustain imputed to such motives as you intimate, I will state
to you, as concisely as I can, the principles upon which, not voluntarily, but most conscientiously, I undertook it.
I have, like you, entertained from my infancy a veneration for publick liberty. I have likewise regarded the British constitution as the best safe-guard of that blessing to be found in the history of mankind. The vital principle of the constitution, in which it moves and has its being, is the supremacy of the king in parliament; a compound, indefinite; indefeasible power, coeval with the origin of the empire, and coextensive over all its parts. I am no stranger to the doctrines of mr. Locke, and others of the best advocates for the rights of mankind, upon the compact always implied between the governing and governed, and the right of resistance in the latter when the compact shall be so violated as to leave no other means of redress. I look with reverence, almost amounting to idolatry, upon those immortal Whigs who adopted and applied such doctrine during part of the reign of Charles I. and in that of James II. Should corruption pervade the three estates of the realm, so as to pervert the great ends of their institution, and make the power vested in them for the good of the whole people operate like an abuse of the prerogative of the crown to general oppression, I am ready to acknowledge, that the same doctrine of resistance applies as forcibly against the abuses of the collective body of power as against those of the crown, or either of the component branches separately; still always understood, that no other means of redress can be obtained, a case, I contend, much more difficult to suppose when it relates to the whole than when it relates to parts. But in all cases that have existed, or can be conceived, I hold that resistance, to be justifiable, must be directed against the usurpation or undue exercise of power, and that it is most criminal when directed against any power itself inherent in the constitution.
And here you will discern immediately why I drew a line in the allusion I made above to the reign of Charles I. Towards the close of it the true principle of resistance was changed, and a new system of government projected accordingly. The patriots, previous to the Long Parliament, and during great part of it, as well as the glorious revolutionists of 1681, resisted, to vindicate and restore the constitution; the republicans resisted, to subvert it.
Now, sir, lay your hand upon your heart, as you have enjoined me to do on mine, and tell me, to which of these purposes do the proceedings of America tend? Is it the weight of taxes imposed, and the impossibility of relief, after due representation of her burthens, that has induced her to take arms? Or is it a denial of the legislative right of Great Britain to impose them, and consequently a struggle for total independency? For the idea of a power that can tax externally and not internally, and all the sophistry that attends it, though it may catch the weakness and prejudices of the multitude in a speech or a pamphlet, is too preposterous to weigh seriously with a man of your understanding; and I am persuaded you will admit the question, fairly put.
Is it then for a relief from taxes, or from the controul of parliament "in all cases whatsoever," that we are in war? If for the former, the quarrel is at an end. There is not a man of sense and information in America who does not see it is in the power of the colonies to obtain a relinquishment of the exercise of taxation immediately, and for ever. I boldly assert it, because sense and information must also suggest to every man that it can never be the interest of Britain to make a second trial.
But if the other ground is taken, and it is intended to wrest from Great Britain a

link of that substantial, and I hope perpetual chain, by which the empire holds, think it not a ministerial mandate, think it not mere professional ardour, think it not prejudice against any part of our fellow subjects, that induces men of integrity (and among such you have done me the honour to class me) to act with vigour; but be assured, it is conviction that the whole of our political system depends upon preserving entire its great and essential parts; and none is so great, and essential, as the supremacy of legislation. It is conviction, that as a king of England never appears in so glorious a capacity as when he employs the executive power of the state to maintain the laws, so, in the present exertions of that power, his majesty is particularly entitled to our zeal and grateful obedience, not only as soldiers, but as citizens.
These principles, depend upon it, actuate the army and fleet throughout; and let me at the same time add, there are few, if any gentlemen among us, who would have drawn his sword in the cause of slavery. But why do I confine myself to the fleet and army? I affirm the sentiments I here touched to be those of the great bulk of the nation. I appeal even to those trading towns which are sufferers by the dispute, and the city of London at the head of them, notwithstanding the petitions and remonstrances that the arts of parties and factions have extorted from some individuals; and last, because least in your favour, I appeal to the majorities of the last year upon American questions in parliament. The most licentious news-writer wants assurance to call these majorities ministerial; much less will you, when you impartially examine the characters of which they were in a great degree composed, men of the most independent principles and fortunes, and many of them professedly in opposition in their general line of conduct.
Among other supporters of British rights against American claims, I will not speak positively, but I firmly believe I may name the men of whose integrity and judgment you have the highest opinion, and whose friendship is nearest your heart; I mean lord Thanet, from whom my aid-de-camp has a letter for you, with another from sir C. Davers. I do not enclose them; because the writers, little imagining how difficult your conduct would render our intercourse, desired they might be delivered into your hands.
For this purpose, as well as to renew "the rights of our fellowship," I wish to see you; and, above all, I should think an interview happy if it induced such explanations as might tend in their consequences to peace. I feel, in common with all around me, for the unhappy deluded bulk of this country; they foresee not the distress that is impending. I know Great Britain is ready to open her arms, upon the first reasonable overtures of accommodation; I know she is equally resolute to maintain her original rights; and I also know, that if the war proceeds, your hundred and fifty thousand men will be no match for her power. I put my honour to these assertions, as you have done to others; and I claim the credit I am willing to give.
The place I would propose for our meeting is the house on Bolton neck, just within our advanced sentries, called Brown's house. I will obtain authority to give you my parole of honour for your secure return. I shall expect the same on your part, that no insult be offered to me. If the proposal is agreeable to you, name your day and hour; and, at all events,
accept a sincere return of the assurances you honour me with, and believe me affectionately yours.
J. BURGOYNE.
P. S. I have been prevented by business answering your letter sooner. I obeyed your commands in regard to generals Howe and Clinton, and I likewise communicated to lord Percy the contents of your letter and my answer. They all join with me in compliments, and authorise me to assure you they do the same in principles.
A copy of general L E E's letter declining the interview proposed by general BURGOYNE.
CAMBRIDGE, head-quarters, July 11.
GENERAL LEE's compliments to general BURGOYNE. Would be extremely happy in the interview he so kindly proposed; but as he perceives that general Burgoyne has already made up his mind on this great subject, and as it is impossible that he (general Lee) should ever alter his opinion, he is apprehensive that the interview might create those jealousies and suspicions so natural to a people struggling in the dearest of all causes, that of their liberty, property, wives, children, and their future generation. He must therefore defer the happiness of embracing a man whom he most sincerely loves, until the subversion of the present tyrannical ministry and system, which he is persuaded must be in a few months, as he knows Great Britain cannot stand the contest. He begs general Burgoyne will send the letters which his aid-de-camp has for him. If Gardiner be his aid-de-camp, he desires his love to him."
TAPPANHANNOCK, August 10, 1775.
I INTEND to leave the colony for a few months. In my absence, mr. George M c Call, or mr. William Shedden, will transact my business, and the business of mr. John M c Call of Clafow.
ARCHIBALD M c CALL.
To be SOLD, on wednesday the 30th of this instant, at Suffolk Town,
ALL the CROP TOBACCO that shall then be left in Milner's warehouse which hath been inspected 12 months and upwards, also all the outstanding TRANSFER NOTES, for ready money. READE & GODWIN.
TO be sold at Prince George courthouse, by order of the Convention, on thursday the 31st instant, all the TRANSFER TOBACCO, also the CROP TOBACCO that has been in the warehouse above one year, to the highest bidders, for ready money, by the different inspectors of Prince George county.
NEW KENT, August 10, 1775.
TO be sold for ready money, agreeable to a resolution of the Convention, on Friday the 25th instant, at Waddy's warehouse, all the TRANSFER and other TOBACCO which may have laid in the said warehouse one year.
FINCH & BACON.
NEW KENT, August 10, 1775.
TO be sold for ready money, agreeable to a resolution of the Convention, on wednesday the 30th instant, at Littlepage's warehouse, all the TRANSFER and other TOBACCO which may have laid one year in the said warehouse.
HEWLETT & POINDEXTER.
A LIST of TOBACCO remaining in Osborne's warehouses.
   When receiv. No. Gross. Tare. Neat. Planters names.     1770.   November 20. 701 1213 128 1085 Estate of James R. Bradby. Note out.   1772.   December 5. 667 1385 136 1249 Stephen Woodson.   1037 1251 113 1138 William Fenney.   June 17. 2108 1224 120 1104 Henry Cox, Cumberland. Note out.   24. 254 763 113 650 Estate of James R. Bradby. do.   1773.   October 21. 94 1295 128 1167 Abraham Whitworth, do.   24. 12 1166 128 1038 William Curd.   126 1030 118 912 Matthew Cox. Note out.   November 2. 283 1072 116 956 Paulen Anderson. do.   18. 516 1274 128 1146 Abraham Whitworth. do.   24. 651 812 100 712 Robert Ligon. do.   December 14. 990 1300 121 1179 Moses Fuqua. do.   991 1300 123 1177 do. do.   992 1023 132 891 do. do.   993 1062 131 931 do. do.   April 9. 2066 1215 113 1102 Capt. Benjamin Ward.   16. 2093 1204 141 1063 Estate of James R. Bradby.   1774.   January 24. 1313 1235 128 1107 Benjamin Roberts.   March 25. 38 1171 130 1041 Rev. John Brunskill. Note out.   August 11. 2029 1080 100 980 Henry Winfree, senior.   2030 1090 100 990 do.  
OSBORNE'S, August 7, 1775.
AGREEABLE to a resolution of the Honourable Convention, will be sold to the highest bidders, at said warehouses, on monday the 28th of this instant, for ready money, all the tobacco above-mentioned, that is not claimed by the proper owners on or before the said 28th of August, as also all transfer tobacco which has been usually sold at September court.
EDWARDS & GRAVES.
A LIST of TOBACCO remaining in Crutchfield's warehouses, passed in the years 1773 and 1774, which will be sold on friday the 25th of this instant (August) to the highest bidders, for ready money.
CLARKE & WINGFIELD.
   Marks. No. Gross. Tare. Neat. Planters names.     TI 1 1135 120 1015 Thomas Jones.   BS 1 1135 115 1020 Barnett Smith.   TP 1 1255 114 1141 Thomas Proffer.   BB 1 1118 104 1014 Benjamin Boughn.   FF 1 1130 120 1010 Frederick Forson.   WC 1 1100 115 985 Walter Carr.   IH 3 985 109 871 John Henry.   WR 1 1107 107 1000 William Rice.  
ARTICLES of Intelligence, Essays, Advertisements, &c. are thankfully received for this Paper, the Price of which is 12s. 6d. per Annum, Advertisements inserted as usual. PRINTING WORK done with Care and Expedition, and on reasonable Terms.

T HE commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of the officers, soldiers, and others, who have claims against the colony on account of the late expedition on the Ohio, being necessarily employed on the business of the colony in Convention, give notice, that it is out of their power to attend at the times formerly appointed for that purpose; which makes it necessary to appoint monday the 11th day of September to meet at Pittsburg , to settle the claims of those living in West Augusta and Pennsylvania ; on monday the 2d of October at Rumney , for the county of Hampshire and Maryland ; and on tuesday the 10th of October at Winchester , for the counties of Frederick , Berkeley , and Dunmore , and the counties below these: At which times and places it is expected all claimants will attend, who may be assured no farther disappointment will happen.
RICHARD LEE. FRANCIS PEYTON. JOSIAS CLAPHAM. HENRY LEE. THOMAS BLACKBURN.
August 12 1775.
AUGUST 12, 1775.
REMAINING in Poropotank warehouse, Gloucester county, a hoghead of tobacco, inspected June 27, 1772 , belonging to James Laughlin , marked IL , no. 2, 1223, 98, 1125, which has never yet been applied for. GEORGE BOOTH.
HANOVER, August 9, 1775.
TO be sold at Page's warehouse, for ready money, on friday the 25th instant, by order of the Convention held at Richmond , 13 hlids. of CROP TOBACCO that have been in the said warehouse upwards of 12 months, also four hlids. of TRANSFER TOBACCO .
CLARKE & ANDERSON.
A LIST of tobacco now remaining in Meriwether's warehouse, which has been there upwards of three years, viz.
Stephen Saunders , SS, no. 8, 715, 130, 585, stemmed. William Fretwell , WF, no. 4, 600, 106, 494. William Wilson , WW, no. 1, 825, 130, 695, leaf.
The above hlids. of tobacco of William Fretwell appear to have been re-prized to 956 lbs. neat, for some person unknown to me, and was done before I came to the place as an inspector. I hereby give notice, that on saturday the 26th of this month, at the said warehouse, will be sold to the highest bidder, for ready money, all the above-mentioned TOBACCO , likewise all the TRANSFER TOBACCO that may then be remaining in the warehouse, and not demanded before.
JOHN BLACKWALL , inspector.
COMMITTED to Nansemond county jail, the 3d day of August 1775, a negro man who calls himself WILL , and says he belongs to William Bibb of Prince George county. He is a black fellow, about six feet high, and appears to be about 35 years old; had on, when taken, a cotton jacket, and black cloth breeches. The owner is desired to take him away, and pay charges.
WILLIAM WHITFIELD , jailer.
TAKEN up in Halifax , a DARK BAY MARE about 4 feet 9 inches high, 5 years old, has three small saddle spots on the left side and one on the right, is crest-fallen, and had on a bell about 2s. 6d. price, with a leather collar, fastened with a large iron buckle, paces slow, and branded on the near buttock WF in a piece. Potted, and appraised to 15l. || JOHN WADE.
AUGUST 10, 1775.
THE ship MOLLY , John Cowan commander, will sail for London on or before the first of September next.
W A N T E D,
A PERSON who can play upon the FIFE . Such a one who can play the field duty will meet with great encouragement by applying to Warner Lewis , esq; in Gloucester , to Thomas Davis , adjutant, or the printer. 2||
GRAY'S CREEK, August 10, 1775.
IN consequence of a resolution of the Convention will be sold for ready money, the 22d instant, at Surry court-house , being court day, all the transfer TOBACCO then in the warehouse, also all the crop tobacco then on hand which has been inspected upwards of twelve months.
SAMUEL JUDKINS, } inspectors. HENRY MORING, }
FREDERICKSBURG, August 2, 1775.
I INTEND to leave the colony in a few weeks. ||
JOHN TAILYOUR.
DUMFRIES, July 25, 1775.
WILLIAM CARR will attend at Westmoreland court, on Tuesday the 29th of August , to have payment for the servants sold on board the Caroline , past February .
RICHMOND, August 1, 1775.
STRAYED from the reverend mr. Selden's , near this town last sunday night, a DEEP SORREL HORSE about 6 years old, near 14 hands high, goes remarkably well, has a long tail and hanging mane, in which there is a lock of white hairs, but neither dockt nor branded. Whoever brings the said horse to mr. Selden's , or to my house in Jametown , shall have 20 s. reward.
CHAMPION TRAVIS.
COMMITTED to the jail of Elizabeth City county, a negro boy about 5 feet high, of a yellowish complexion, calls himself DANIEL , and says he belongs to Nicholas George of Lancaster county. The owner is desired to take him away, and pay charges.
|| JOHN M'LACHLIN.
COMMITTED to the jail of Elizabeth City county, a negro man named JEMMY . He is a black fellow, 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, well made, has on common negro clothing, and says he belongs to Thomas Loyad of Essex county. The owner is desired to take him away, and pay charges.
|| JOHN M'LACHLIN.
HANOVER, July 25, 1775.
RUN away from the subscriber, on the 19th of this instant, PETER WILSON , an indentured servant man, about 24 years old, 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high, has short yellow hair, a very down look, is well set, and round-shouldered; he is a native of Scotland , and speaks broad, is a butcher by trade, a good hostler, and a tolerable good weaver. It is supposed he rode a likely black horse about 4 feet 11 inches high, with a switch tail; and he carried away with him a black coat of superfine broadcloth, half worn, a jacket and breeches of white fustian, and a jacket of dark do. a new felt hat, a pair of country made pumps, and an old great coat. Whoever will secure the said servant, so that I get him again, shall have 40s. reward, besides what the law allows. (1f)
JOHN SYME.
Twenty dollars reward.
RUN away, the 9th inst. the following servants, viz. GERMAN CAMPION , an indentured servant, 30 years of age, born in Derbyshire , in England , professes farming, is about 5 feet 7 inches high, and has short dark hair; had on, and took with him, a blue half-thicks coat and breeches, a pair of rolls trousers, check and osnabrug shirts, a striped flannel pea jacket, shoes and stockings, and a worsted cap. RICHARD CLEAN , an indentured servant, between 30 and 40 years of age, about 5 feet 7 inches high, by trade a joiner and house carpenter, says he is an Englishman , but I believe he is an Irishman , and wears his own hair, which is of a reddish colour; had on, and took with him, a brown coat with metal buttons, linen and cloth breeches, a pair of rolls trousers, check and osnabrug shirts, a fine hat more than half worn, and shoes and stockings. GEORGE CRAIG , an indentured servant, a Scotchman , and by profession a gardener; he is between 30 and 40 years of age, about 5 feet 7 inches high, much pitted with the smallpox, has a pert way of speaking, is of a dark complexion, and wears his own hair, which is dark; he has a scar on the right side of his neck (and I believe on his left too) which appears to have been done with a knife; had on, and carried with him, a brown coat with metal buttons, a blue half-thicks coat and breeches, check and osnabrug shirts, a half worn fine hat, a pair of rolls trousers, and shoes and stockings. WILLIAM ARMSTRONG , a convict servant, a Scotchman , and by trade a blacksmith, of a swarthy complexion, 37 years of age, 5 feet 8 inches high, wears his own dark hair, tied behind in a club, is a little pitted with the smallpox, has lost two of his fore teeth, and is a very proud fellow; had on, and took with him, two blue, one osnabrug and one striped Virginia cloth waistcoat, two osnabrug shirts, two pair of osnabrug and one pair of striped holland trousers, several pair of stockings two pair of shoes, a black silk handkerchief, two felt hats, one of which he wears cocked, also a double-breasted Virginia cloth waistcoat lined (the fore parts) with Virginia cloth. WILLIAM COLTON , an indentured servant, five feet 8 or 9 inches high, slim made, dark hair, near-sighted, and his eyes generally inflamed, which probably might have been occasioned by the smallpox, of which disorder he is strongly marked, and has a deep scar on one of his arms above the elbow; he took nothing with him (that I know of) but an osnabrug shirt and trousers, and a half worn beaver hat cocked three ways. Whoever brings the said servants to John A. Washington , esq; or to me, in Westmoreland , shall be paid the above reward. JOHN TURBERVILLE.
TAKEN up in Stafford , a BRINDLED HEIFER about 3 years old, marked with a swallow-fork in the right ear, and a crop and hole in the left. Potted, and appraised to 55s.
JOHN MONCURE.
TAKEN up in Orange , a DARK BAY MARE about 12 years old, about 4 feet 7 inches high, has some saddle spots, and branded on the near buttock with the figure of 9. Potted, and appraised to 8l.
ISAAC CROSTHWATT.
TAKEN up in Brunswick , a small bay HORSE about 4 feet 4 inches high, 12 years old, with a hanging mane and switch tail, some saddle spots, trots, and branded on the near buttock PI , or PP , very dull. Potted, and appraised to 5l.
ALEXANDER MORRISON.

FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND, containing 3000 acres, whereon is a plantation which has employed, for some years past, twelve or fourteen slaves; this tract lies in the upper end of King William county. Also a tract lying in the lower end of the said county, containing 1000 acres, and pleasantly situated on Pamunkey river; a brick dwelling-house, with necessary offices, a fishing shore, and a lively fertility of soil, recommend the latter tract to any Gentleman who may be about to settle in life. Possession will be delivered on the 25th of December next, to the purchaser, or purchasers, who will have liberty of sowing fall grain. Mr. Benjamin Grymes, jun of Orange, will make known particulars to any person who may be inclined to purchase the whole, or any part of the said tracts. Credit till the first of January 1777 will be allowed, by
JUDITH ROBINSON. (tf.) LUCY ROBINSON. BENJAMIN GRYMES, jun.
I n July 1774, there was left at Mr. Thomas Adam's, at the Gali Pasture, in Augusta county, a SORREL HORSE, three years old, about 13 hands high, is a trotter, and branled on the near buttock resembling TP in a piece. He was left by a runaway negro, supposed to be the property of Mr. Richard Hollens at Richmond, to whom I wrote about it, but never received any answer. I therefore give this notice, that the said horse is now in my custody, and that I am ready to deliver him up to the owner, on proving his property, and paying charges.
THOMAS HUGART.
R UN away from the subscriber, in King and Queen county, at the plantation of John Parke Custis, Esq, two apprentice boys, viz. LYDDAL CRUMP and EDMOND RAGLAND, of New Kent county, who have both light hair and fair complexions. One of the said boys is 17 years of age, and the other 18. This is to forewarn all persons from entertaining or harbouring them, at their peril.
GEORGE CLOPTON, junior.
R UN away from the subscriber, in Peytonburg, Pittsylvania county, the 24th of June, an English convict servant man named JOHN WILLIAMS; he carried with him a claret coloured frieze coat, a light coloured Newmarket either bearskin or beaver coating, two osnaburg shirts, and a pair of osnaburg trousers, a pair of leather breeches, and a rackoon hat lined with green persim. He is a thick well set fellow, about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, light hair, a brazen look, and is very fond of spirits, has several large warts on his hands, and a very remarkable scar on his upper lip, right under his nose, thus X. He formerly taught a reading school at this place, for about six or eight months past. As he understands the Prussian exercise very well, I expect he will endeavour to pass for a deserter from general Gage, or some of his majesty's troops. I will give 5l. reward for him if taken in Virginia, and 10l. if taken in Carolina, Maryland, or Philadelphia, or secured in any of his majesty's jails, so that I get him.
(6) HENRY WILLIAMS.
R UN away from the subscriber, at West Point, in King William county, the 21st of last December, a very likely Virginia born negro man, named MIKE, about 22 years old, six feet high, and stutters much; had on, when he went away, a suit of negro cotton, but may probably change his clothes. I forewarn all masters of vessels from carrying him out of the colony. Whoever brings the said negro to me shall have 3l. reward, besides what the law allows, and if taken out of the colony 10l. (u.) JOHN WEST
NORFOLK, August 1, 1775.
T HE time of partnership being expired between Marsden, Maxwell, & co. all persons are desired to settle and pay on their accounts
MARSDEN, MAXWELL, & co.
To be SOLD on the premises, on thursday the 31st of this instant (August) to the highest bidder,
A LOT in the town of Blanford, whereon is a good dwelling house, all necessary out-houses, and a garden; also several unimproved LOTS, adjoining the above. The terms may be known before the day of sale, and the lots shewn, by Mr. John Baird, or the subscriber.
ALEXANDER GORDON.
R UN away from the subscriber, in Gloucester county, on the 14th of this instant (May) a negro man named NED, about 19 or 20 years of age, five feet two or three inches high, rather of a tawny complexion has some ringworms on his face, and some white hairs in his head; his clothing was an old brown coat, and a yellow striped cotton waistcoat. I bought him last March at the sale of Mr. John Shermer, in James City county, for Mann Page, junior, Esquire. He was brought from one of his quarters in King William county, and I have reason to believe that he will go to those parts, or to his mother, who lives with Mr. Thomas Booth, in Richmond town. Any person who will take up the said slave, and secure him so that I get him again, shall be paid 40s. by Mann Page, junior, Esquire, to whom the negro belongs.
(tf.) JAMES JONES.
For SALE at Tappahannock,
A n exceeding likely young negro man who is a very good house servant, in waistcoats taking care of horses, and is a tolerable good cook. If the purchaser is not perfectly satisfied with him after a month's trial, he may return him if in health.
(tf.) ARCHIBALD M'CALL.
To be SOLD in Amherst county, FOUR THOUSAND acres of exceeding good tobacco LAND, being part of a large tract formerly advertised, together with a very valuable gristmill, upon Buffalo river. This land is equal to any that has yet been sold of the tract. The time of payment will be made agreeable to purchasers. Mr. Gabriel Penn, who lives near the land, is authorised to bargain for it, and will show it to any person inclined to purchase.
(tf.) CARTER BRAXTON.
For SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, near Newmarket, containing about 3000 acres of well timbered land, having thereon two plantations, in good repair, with proper and convenient edifices for farming, or making tobacco. For terms apply to the subscriber.
(tf.) JOHN BAYLOR.
For SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in Caroline county, contiguous to Mattaponi, containing about 2000 acres of well timbered land, the property of Mr. Robert Baylor. The terms may be known by applying to Mr. Nathaniel Burwell in King William, Mr. John Armistead in Caroline, or Mr. John Baylor, executors.
(tf.)
A LIST of TOBACCO remaining in Rocky Ridge warehouses.
   When passed No. Gross Tare. Neat Planters names.     1772.   April 9. 145 1094 106 988 John Murray.   July 29. 285 1057 108 949 Capt. Benjamin Harris. Note out.   November 30 392 1206 121 1165 Richard Lee. Do.   1773.   February 18 165 1217 111 1096 Sarah Wheeler. Do.   26. 1718 1192 107 1085 William Brown, Bedford.   September 1. 2645 109 102 988 Marked IHAT   October 28. 20 1141 153 988 George Palmer. Note out.   November 11 416 1235 113 1122 William Byrd, esquire.   18 58 1322 120 1202 William Davenport. Note out.   24. 699 1087 110 977 Thomas Stegar.   1774.   February 24. 1409 1228 124 1104 Martha Goode.   May 18. 2024 1082 120 962 George Wright. Note out.   June 11. 2141 1254 100 1154 Col. John Payne, do.   20. 2142 1315 96 1219 do. do.   2192 1322 106 1216 do. do.   2193 1318 100 1218 do. do.   2195 1289 104 1185 do. do.   2196 1250 102 1148 do. do.   August 9. 2332 1270 104 1172 do. do.   2333 1333 106 1227 do. do.  
ROCKY RIDGE, August 1, 1775.
A GREEABLE to a resolution of the Honourable Convention, will be sold to the highest bidders, at said warehouses, on friday the 25th of this instant, for ready money, all the tobacco above-mentioned, that is not claimed by the proper owners on or before the said 25th of August, as also all transfer tobacco which has been usually sold at September court.
SCOTT & PANKEY.
A LIST of TOBACCO remaining in Cary's warehouses.
   When passed No. Gross Tare. Neat Planters names.     1773.   December 10. 220 1120 121 999 Richard Allan.   1774.   March 31. 45 1076 114 962 Isiah Burton. Note out.   May 9. 592 988 112 876 James Wright.   593 950 108 842 do.   August 4. 709 1008 109 899   prized 1005 Humphrey Kipple. Note out.  
CARY'S, August 1, 1775.
A GREEABLE to a resolution of the Honourable Convention, will be sold to the highest bidders, at the said warehouses, on friday the 25th of this instant, for ready money, all the tobacco above-mentioned, that is not claimed by the proper owners on or before the said 25th of August, as also all the transfer tobacco which has been usually sold at September court.
BRANCH & MARKHAM.