THE
VIRGINIA GAZETTE,
THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 1774. NUMBER 433
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3s. the first Week,
and 2s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion. ____PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
THE generous support which the printer of this paper has
received from the public, since the decease of her late
husband, induces her once more to return the warmest
acknowledgements, as well for past favours as the kind
promises of many individuals to continue their kindness
towards her; and it is with infinite satisfaction she can
assure her customers that she shall shortly, should Providence be pleased
to restore her health, be enabled to conduct her business with more ease
and extension than her most sanguine expectations originally dictated.
The known emoluments arising from a free exercise of the press, in all
matters which serve not the ends of corruption and malevolence, and the
numerous other advantages derived from a well conducted newspaper, are
so apparent, that it requires no comment, or expostulation, particularly
to enlarge or set them forth. To revive, at all times in her power, the
spirit of this paper, by a due observance of material intelligence, and a
proper attention to all pieces with which she may be favoured from any
of her correspondents, which, if they exceed not the bounds of her
gazette, and are fraught with either a decent or moral tendency, shall
have their proper arrangement.
The printer would by no means be understood to boast a superiority in
the conduct of a vehicle of this nature; the only advances, that it shall
be her particular endeavour to amuse and instruct, and, at the same time,
her firm determination, ever to preserve the dignity of her paper.
Nor will she presume to urge that this gazette will always be exempt,
or free, from small, or typographical errors, it being utterly impossible
for the nicest eye, at all times, to distinguish, or perceive, faults of that
nature, owing chiefly to the extreme hurry in which we are generally
involved.
A general correspondence with all the printers on this continent, as
also with many of the printers, and others with whom it is convenient
to carry on a correspondence of this sort, in many of the principal towns
and cities of Great Britain, is established, which will of course be
materially interesting and useful to us, by affording means to supply our
readers with the latest intelligence from those different quarters.
But while we are thus descanting upon the benefits resulting from a
paper conducted on such a plan as we have mentioned, it may not be
amiss, or unkindly taken, should we now drop a hint or two with respect
to the means which alone can prolong its existence:-----To every person,
then, but more especially to every customer, it must evidently appear,
that they are served at a very great expence, which cannot be defrayed
without punctual remittances from the subscribers yearly; nor would the
cash, due for advertisements at different periods, and for other kinds of
printing work, be unacceptable, were it to accompany the gazette money;
and which we must earnestly hope will be a material consideration with
our kind benefactors. This would enable her to proceed with spirit, and
at the same time to lay something by for the support of her children at
a future day; and she will not delay, that, under those circumstances, it
will be pretty considerable.
The printer must now, too, beg leave to observe, that this week
compleats the first year since she has had the management of an office;
and should it not be convenient for those of her subscribers who live
remote form Williamsburg to send their subscription money so soon as
they could wish, they will please to convey it by some merchant, or
other person, who would readily, she is persuaded, do that kindness for
her, when they attend the ensuing October general court.
Having nothing farther to add, and fearing that I have already been
too troublesome, I shall conclude the public’s most grateful, and much
obliged, humble servant,
August 18, 1774. CLEMENTINA RIND.
From the PENNSYLVANIA JOURNAL.
Messieurs BRADFORDS,
THOUGH I am very sensible that matters of politics belong more
to men than women, yet I cannot help sometimes indulging serious
thoughts on the present alarming situation of public affairs. The actions
of the ministry and parliament express a determined resolution to subject
the colonies to their will and pleasure; while the union of the colonies
and their deep rooted love of liberty, convince me, that they will not
tamely surrender their rights, nor, without a struggle, consent to hold
their lives and property by the precarious tenure of the will of others.
The natural timidity of my sex paints on my imagination the horrors of
the struggle in dismal colours, which are doubtless heightened by educa-
tion, and the peace and tranquility heretofore enjoyed. But dreadful
as the calamities of war may be, in my view, the horrors of slavery are
still more dreadful. Cities have been demolished, and under the auspices
of liberty have, in a few years, risen to their former splendour; armies
have been vanquished, and again repaired; but a people subjected to arbi-
trary government sink from misery to misery, till their wretchedness
beggars all description! SOPHRONIA.
The following ANECDOTE, not altogether unapplicable to the
present situation of affairs in Boston, may not be disagreeable to our
readers.
ABOUT the year 1734 sir Robert Walpole having planned an
act for a general excise, communicated to the king his intentions
of having it passed, with assurances at the same time of its producing a
very considerable revenue. His majesty approved the plan, and ordered
sir Robert to prosecute it. The bill was accordingly introduced into the
second reading, sir Robert, on his return from the house, would in all
probability have been murdered, had he not been rescued by colonel
Horsey of the guards; all the avenues to the house being thronged with
people, fired with resentment against so iniquitous a bill, and eager to
revenge themselves on the framer of it. Sir Robert then dreading the
consequences of its passing, went to his majesty and applied for permission
to decline it altogether. The king, however, insisted on the prosecution
of it, and sending for John duke of Argyle, who was then general of
the forces in Great Britain, asked him in what condition his army was?
The answer was, in a very good one. Are the regiments complete? As
much so as they generally are in times of peace. Can you depend on
them? I will be answerable for every one of them to a man. Then it
shall pass, said his majesty. On which the duke desired to know what
was to pass; and on being informed, the noble general answered, “May
it please your majesty! Whenever you turn your arms against your ene-
mies, I will pledge myself for their good behaviour; but if you turn
English arms against English arms, I will not be responsible for them.
Nobly said, even to his majesty! But now we are so genteelly bashful,
that we dare not say as much to a tyrant minister!
BOSTON, July 21.
A CORRESPONDENT observes, that if the bills should pass for
altering the government of Massachusetts Bay, it cannot be sup-
posed that any man of character will accept of, or act in, any affair con-
trary to the established laws and chartered rights of the people; if any
persons should be so abandoned,, as to act against the liberty and the
voice of this country, they must be esteemed the vilest enemies of free-
dom, and the basest wretches above ground.
The firmness and unanimity of the people to defend their invaluable
rights, notwithstanding the restlessness of a little selfish faction, does
this province honour. At a meeting of sixty gentlemen, deputies of the
several towns in the county of Berkshire, a number of judicious, spirited
resolves were passed, and a non-consumption agreement agreed upon, to
encourage our own manufactures, and a subscription for the Boston suffer-
ers, by the port act. The accounts from Connecticut are the most en-
couraging, and the firmness, activity, and generosity, of the other colonies,
is astonishing to the enemies of American freedom. Courage AMERI-
CANS! and, with the help of God, the slavery intended us may be
warded off, and our tranquility established.
Large orders for fall goods have been countermanded, occasioned by the
non-consumptive agreement.
July 25. On the 4th of May, at Leeds, in England, wheat was sold
at the enormous price of 7s. sterling (exactly 10s. lawful money) per
bushel.
A non-consumption agreement, we hear, is universally adopted in
New Hampshire, and in every part of this province; in many towns
scarce a dissentient. As this was foreseen, large orders for a fall importa-
tion have been countermanded. May the blessing of him that is ready to
perish fall upon the benefactors to this besieged and distressed town,
through the continent. Their sympathy and generosity are astonishing.
A subscription paper is said to be signing with amazing rapidity, by the
ladies and gentlemen of Portsmouth, “that from and after the 16th day
of July, 1774, they will not import, sell, purchase, or consume any kind
of East India teas, nor suffer the same to be used or consumed in their
respective families, until the present duty on that article shall be taken
off, and the port of Boston opened.”
Mr. Pelathiah Webster, of Philadelphia, has given orders to his cor-
respondent here to pay into the hands of the treasurer of the committee
for receiving donations, ten pounds lawful money, for the use of the
industrious poor, who are now suffering in consequence of the Boston
port bill.
July 28. Every part of this extensive continent, so far as we have yet
heard, appear to be deeply interested in the fate of this unhappy town.
Many and great are the donations we have already received, and many
more we have good reason to expect. The cry of hunger is not so great
as was at first expected. Even our poorest people have not suffered for
the want of bread. May that Being who hath the hearts of all men in
his hands, and who turneth them as he pleaseth, still dispose our sym-
pathising brethren to continue their benefactions, till we are happily
relieved from our present difficulties!
The governor of Connecticut has appointed the 31st of August next as
a day of fasting, humiliation, and prayer.
At a town meeting on Tuesday last, the methods proposed for employ-
ing such as are out of business by the operation of the port bill, were
approved; a circular letter to the other town, relative to the bills for
vacating our charter, was reported, and accepted by the town. The
meeting stands adjourned to Tuesday the 9th day of August.
We hear from Marblehead that the fast was observed with great solemni-
ty there, and can find but two persons who were disposed to profane it
by opening their stores. As they both had addressed Mr. Hutchinson, they
refused to join in the merchants agreement of that town relative to stores
and wharves, or to subscribe towards the relief of such as would be void
of support under the oppressive port bill. This impious proceeding is
attended with aggravating circumstances. The persons were R---H---,
esquire, and his son in law S-----W----; and although the first has
rented his country seat to his excellency, we cannot think he was advised
to trample on religion and abuse holy things; since the army and navy,
although sent on a hostile errand, have hitherto conducted with more
decency. It is probable that such men as these have given encouragement
to parliament to persist in their arbitrary measures; men born amongst us,
who to get a place or pension are so active to ruin their country, are, by
far, more culpable than any persons of Great Britain can possibly be.
May proper steps be taken to hand their names and characters down to
posterity! The reverend clergy we are glad to find generally engaged in
the cause of liberty through the continent; they are fully sensible that a
people who lose their liberty, and submit to despotism, will inevitably
follow the examples of their tyrannical superiors, and throw of all reli-
gion. Christianity was never known to flourish in an arbitrary govern-
ment, and therefore our pious teachers do well in opposing slavery, as
an inlet to every vice; none but dupes of power assert that the clergy, in
such times as these, have nothing to do with politics, since the sacred
writings bear frequent testimony against oppression and tyranny. Surely
they are under every possible obligation to exert themselves in favour of
their country, since, with the loss of its liberty, religion must sink,
social happiness be destroyed, and in the ruin and downfall of America,
they and their families be impoverished and reduced to hardships and want.
By captait Lovett, arrived last sabbath in this town, after a short
passage to Portsmouth from Antigua, we learn that the merchants and
planters were in great consternation there on reading the proposals of
the colonies for suspending their supplies of lumber and provisions, which
they agree must be ruinous to them; and in consequence, they have ap-
propriated a third of their cane plantations for the culture of Indian corn,
yams, potatoes, &c. for the maintenance of their slaves, in case the
suspension does take place. It is further said Antigua has sent home a
remonstrance on that head, and prayed Great Britain, either to open the
port of Boston, and let them have provisions as usual, or furnish them
with the absolute necessities of life themselves; otherwise, say they,
their sugar planting must speedily come to an end, as they can neither
support their slaves, nor ship the sugars home for want of casks. Not-
withstanding the distress in which they foresee they must be involved by
our discontinuance of trade with them, they generously commend us for
the resolutions, acknowledging that in our circumstances any measure we
can lay hold on for relief from the chains imposing upon us is fully justi-
fiable. An instance of their generosity and patriotism captain Lovett had
the pleasure of witnessing. That old troubler of Boston, captain Bruce,
was railing against this town in a large company at a principal tavern at
dinner while he was there; and after he had expatiated largely on the
abuse he had suffered for bringing his blessed cargo of tea (though by the
way the old caitiff was used more tenderly than any shipmaster concerned
in that rascally job) and hoped the next freight he brought them would
be soldiers: A gentleman stepped calmly up to him, and asked him if
he had not for many years got his bread from the people against whom he
was so bitterly inveighing? And being answered in the affirmative, he
caught Bruce by the nose, and let him out of the company, requiring him
to keep his distance, as a dirty ingrate, unworthy of any gentleman’s
company or countenance. The company present, on this, agreed not to
afford him an ounce of freight on any terms, and it is thought the loyal
martyr will be forced to go home in ballast. A fine circle truly, captain
Bruce! You ought indeed to be noticed by his lordship; for it is great
odds if you are not as stiff, as obstinate, as wrong headed a miscreant as
ever listed under his banner.
From a rascal in office of exports and imports in Boston (one Murray)
to his friend, D. Ar. McNeil, in Carolina.
”Our sons of liberty, as you will see by the papers, have at length
procured for themselves a smart dose of correction, but they make faces
and take it with a bad grace, which will not make the operation the
gentler. Will your colony, and others of the same stamp take warning
by our discipline? If they do not they will certainly come in for their
share, now John Bull is roused.”
Extract of a letter from Newport, dated July 22.
”Two vessels from South Carolina arrived here last night; the people
there have subscribed 2000 barrels of rice for your town; and two vessels
were loading for Boston with some of it, when the last advices came
away.”
Letters from the southern parts of North Carolina assure us, that the
inhabitants there will go as far in defence of American liberty as can be
expected, and recommend, if a congress should be deemed the first step
necessary to be taken, that subscriptions, or rather collections, be set on
foot throughout the continent, to raise and remit a sum of money to the
community in Boston, for the relief of their distressed and suffering
brethren there, who must stand in equal need of such assistance, as if
their town had been destroyed by fire.
Extract of a letter from Alexandria (Virginia) to a gentleman in town, dated
July 6, 1774.
”The following subscription for the benefit and relief of those (the
industrious poor of the town of Boston) who by the late cruel act of par-
liament are deprived of their daily labour and bread, to prevent the inha-
bitants sinking under the oppression or migrating, to keep up that manly
spirit that has made them dear to every American, through the envy of
an arbitrary parliament, is from the county of Fairfax, in this colony,
viz. 273l. in specie (equal to lawful) 38 barrels of flour, and 150 bushels
of wheat. This subscription being but few days on foot, we have not
had an opportunity to present it to the country in general; a large sum
will be given. Mr. Henley yesterday returned from Dumfries, after con-
sulting the committee of Prince William county, in which a subscription
is going on generously; this day he sets out to consult the committees of
Loudoun and Frederick counties, in each of which a spirit becoming gene-
rous and free born sons of liberty are in the like manner testified: Indeed,
all Virginia and Maryland are contributing for the relief of Boston. The
subscription is to be laid out in corn and flour, to be shipped and configured
to the honourable James Bowdoin and John Hancock, esquires, Mr.
Samuel Adams, Isacc Smith, esquire, and the gentlemen committee of
correspondence in Boston, to be distributed in such manner as they shall
think most proper, among the persons reduced to want and indigence by
means of the cruel and unjust act of parliament. We expect daily to load
our schooner Nassau with a cargo to be presented, as by the enclosed paper.
Our association was put off, as the people from the country could not at-
tend, being in the midst of harvest, and bad weather; they would have
lost much grain; but be assured Virginia and Maryland are determined to
unite with the colonies. Firmness and intrepidity are their characters.”
Thursday last the delegates from the several towns in the province of
New Hampshire met at Exeter, when they made choice of colonel
Nathaniel Folsom of Exeter, and major John Sullivan of Durham, to re-
present that province at the general congress.
A correspondent says it is expected that the congress will recommend
to the people of this continent to enter into an engagement not to pur-
chase any goods of the English East India company, or their factors, until
the company hath made compensation to Boston, and other towns of the
continent, which have suffered in consequence of said company’s basely
sending their detested tea to America.
A few days ago a number of small arms and a box of files, which were
transporting from this place to Salem, were seized on Boston Neck, by
order of lieutenant Johnston.
To the printer of the PENNSYLVANIA PACKET.
SIR,
ON reading in the eastern papers the address to general Gage, from
the justices of Suffolk, in Massachusetts government, with his
excellency’s answer to it, brought to my mind the address of the mayor
and corporation of Coventry, to queen Elizabeth, on her paying them a
visit: I will attempt to repeat it, though perhaps not literally.
We men of Coventry
Are very glad to see
Your royal majesty;
Good laws, how fair you be!
To which her majesty replied:
My royal majesty,
Is very glad to see
You men of Coventry;
Good sirs, what fools you be!
Now though I do not pretend to that elegance of language, and beauty
of poetry, so eminently here displayed, I will aim at a humble imitation.
To general GAGE.
His royal majesty,
In this time of “difficulty,”
Has sent your excellency
To rule and govern we;
Dear sir, how wife you be!
The ANSWER.
I do most thankfully
Receive these lines from ye,
Men who plainly see
My great “ability;”
Dear sirs, what knaves you be!
From the MORNING CHRONICLE.
To the KING.
SIR,
I am going to address you in a stile with which the ear of a monarch
is but little acquainted; I equally detest the panegyric of a courtier,
and the malignity of a pretended patriot. Stimulated by a real zeal for
the welfare of my country, it shall be my endeavour to point out the
brink of destruction on which we at this moment stand; it ought to be
your’s to snatch us from it.
I have said that this nation is on the verge of ruin; think not that
such an assertion is idle declamation. There is but one method, that I
know of, by which we can judge of the future; it is by a retrospect to
the past. Look back, sir, to what hath happened in similar situations;
from thence you will be able to form a truer judgment than from the
information which reaches you through the medium of a court. Let the
historian be the faithful instructor of my sovereign. He who relates the
conduct of those who are no more hath no interest in deceiving. The
gloss of the picture may indeed be worn off, but its real beauties are
matured by time.
Believe not those who tell you that this country is in a flourishing
condition; it is their interest that leads them to impose such falsehoods on
your royal ear. They know that it is next to impossible they should be
detected. You have only an opportunity of beholding the wealth and
grandeur of your metropolis, with the beautiful country around it; the
wretchedness of the more distant parts is unknown. The cries and
distresses of the poor never pollute the atmosphere of a palace.
Your heart, I am confident, is capable of the most benevolent feelings.
Were you but acquainted with the misery that proceeds from that
corruption, which is too notorious to be doubted, you would no longer
suffer the industrious poor to be plundered, to bestow thousands upon
men who are a burthen to their country, and a disgrace to the hands that
exalt them.
I am aware of the nice situation in which a monarch is placed:
Surrounded by sycophants, to whom truth is a stranger, I pity him for
measures which I cannot but detest; and where every private virtue
adorns him, I must still esteem the man, however I condemn the
magistrate. But, sir, it behoves you to pierce through the veil that
surrounds you. Try to discern things as they are, not as they seem, and
let your own judgments be the director of your conduct, Be it my care
for the present to display a few truths to your view, with that duty and
respect which I owe to you, as my sovereign, and with that freedom
which I owe to myself and man.
I have before said that we are to judge of the future by the past; every
empire since the beginning of the world might be brought home to my
subject. The Roman was the latest, and, I believe, the strongest example;
to it therefore I shall confine myself. Shall I beg your attention? It
cannot be of disservice.
In the early days of Rome its citizens were linked together by the
strongest bond of nature, that of self-preservation. The meanest under-
standing very clearly perceived, that to defend themselves from the foes
that surrounded them, unanimity was the first essential. They perceived
also, that power belonged only unto those whose superior abilities could
dictate the wisest measures in the cabinet, and best enforce them in the
field. Nor were the abilities the only requisite to distinctions; the strictest
virtue, the noblest rectitude of life, were also necessary. They lodged not
power with those whose principles were suspected, lest they should betray.
Rome conquered every foe, not by a majority of numbers, but by superior
virtue. Love of country, and the public good, were the darling passions
of a Roman. They did not serve the state to plunder it; they led not mer-
cenary armies to the field, but men who fought for all they held dear.
No other forces could withstand them, for no other forces possessed such
uncorrupted manners. Surrounding nations sought their ruin, and num-
bers seemed to ensure it; but Roman virtue towered above them all;
their eagles flew victorious, and conquest crowned their arms.
Such once was Rome; in some degree, such once was Britain. Let
us then take a view of Rome’s decline; it may perhaps come home to
times more modern.
There is an old observation, and I believe a true on, that every crime
carries with it its own punishment; it is at least verified in the case before
us. Whilst Rome fought only against her real enemies, and from the just
principle of self-defence, she raised herself to the highest pitch of human
greatness; but when she carried her arms to distant nations, that never
had molested her; when the sword was drawn from the infamous motives
of plunder and conquest, she laid the foundation of her own destruction
Her Asiatic wars, indeed, brought wealth and riches into Rome, but
with them were introduced luxuries that had been before unknown.
From that moment virtue and public spirit sunk apace; dissipation banish-
ed temperance and independence; their bodies became enfeebled, and
their souls depraved; a few engrossed the riches of the empire, and po-
verty depressed the lower ranks of me; it was no longer virtue that
raised me up to the first employments of the state, but the chance of
birth, and the caprice of fortune. Those men, whose genius and whose
sentiments would have reflected honour on the highest offices, fled from a
court where vice and villainy prevailed. Such a situation could not long
continue. When universal corruption overspreads the body, dissolution
is at hand. Bodies enervated, and minds polluted, were but feeble
opponents, when attacked by invaders, who followed nature, undebauched
by art. The Roman empire, that had flourished for ages, that had been
the mistress of the world, was overturned from her very foundation in
less than two centuries. How instructive is such an example to succeed-
ing nations? Whilst the Roman people were virtuous; whilst every office
and honour were bestowed on those only whose superior merit claimed
pre-eminence; whilst public good was the universal pursuit, and whilst
none were possessed of overgrown fortunes, nor wanted the real necessa-
ries of life, they were invincible; But when the distinctions of birth and
riches arose, and to be good no longer led to greatness; when the public
treasure was squandered on unworthy individuals, and the poor were
plundered to enrich the rich; when love of country yielded to the love
of self; when one man was possessed of hoarded thousands, and millions
were unsupplied with the comforts of life, they sank to ruin, and dissolved
away!
Such, sir, is the portrait which I lay before you. My observations,
though general, are, I believe, sufficient to convince you, that those very
symptoms which preceded the fall of Rome appear but too evidently in
the British constitution. Similar causes must ever produce similar effects.
The mode of our death may indeed be different, but it is equally certain,
unless some means can be found to recal our political health. We may
perhaps be too far gone even for medicine to avail; but however that may
be, the attempt would crown you with immortal glory. You would have
all the hounours due to the saviour of his country, though the enterprize
should fail. You see, sir, I do not accuse you of being the cause of those
evils I complain of; however popular such accusations may be, I am
satisfied they are unjust. It is the universal depravity of the times that
gives rise to those measures with which you are charged; I shall not
therefore attack any particular instance of corruption of which may have
happened since the commencement of your reign, but shall endeavour to
point out the original source from whence that corruption hath pro-
ceeded.
The source I mean to attack is the perversion of the house of commons.
I shall not detain you in proving what you cannot be unacquainted with.
In the construction of every body the soundness of each part is absolutely
necessary to the perfection of the whole: How happens it, then, that
a majority is obtained in the house of commons who will implicitly obey
the dictates of a cruel minister? Who no longer meet to deliberate on
what is necessary for the good of the nation, but to give their votes as
they have been before instructed? It is true, they have yet the shadow of
free debate, but how long even the shadow will remain after the substance
is gone, is not very difficult to determine. Sir Robert Walpole, to secure
his power, and to defend himself form the infamy due to his administra-
tion, first broached the absurd doctrine of the interests of king and people
being different; interested men have since supported it, and it now seems
established beyond redress. But, sir, be not blinded by false representa-
tions; five a fair and candid examination to the nature of that consti-
tution of which you are the head; you will then find that the
wealth of individuals may be of small service in the hour of danger,
when compared with the assistance which an independent and happy
yeomanry would cheerfully afford; you will find that the affections of
your subjects would be the best bulwark against every invader, and the
most faithful guardians of your person; in short, you will find, that the
propriety and happiness of a British monarch depends on every branch of
the constitution having that power and independence which was originally
designed. I know it may be said that there is a party against government
as well as for it: I grant it to be so; but let the one be no more, the
other will cease to exist, In the present parliament that indeed might
not be the case. Let us suppose one according to the plan that follows:
A king of England, convinced that his good, and that of his people,
were one and the same thing, issues his royal mandate for the election of
members to serve in parliament. As the welfare of the constitution is
his sole aim, he declares that no bribe of any nature, nor any interposi-
tion from the throne, shall influence the election of members, or bias
the debates of the house of commons when assembled. Let me ask what
would be the probable consequence of such a measure? It would be that
those men who at present spend such sums to be returned would no longer
be candidates; for they no longer would have the prospect of being amply
repaid. The best men in the kingdom would then be called forth by the
people to receive the sacred trust of representatives; for the people’s
poverty would no longer be tempted to make them resign their judgement
and integrity. men who now from principle fly to retirement, from
principle would then return to the world; for they would be happy to
serve their country when they could do it without an expence productive
of ruin. The designing knave would no longer dupe the vulgar with
pretended patriotism and noisy bombast; for he would then have nothing
to hope for. The king would meet a parliament ready to do every thing
loyalty and affection could dictate; for it would be the study of such a
parliament to promote the power and welfare of him and his kingdoms.
The taxes would then be laid on those shoulders that are best able to bear
them, and the real necessaries of life would come at the lowest rate to
to the meanest people. Luxury would then be made still more
luxurious; for such a parliament would supply the wants of the crown
by duties that would be levied off the wealthy, not off the indigent.
With such a parliament the confidence of the nation would be unlimited,
domestic foes would be unknown, and foreign enemies might well be
disregarded; wherever you appeared you would be hailed the deliverer of
your country, and the benevolent father of your people. Through life
your applauding subjects would look up to you with adoration, and at
your death the weeping multitude, in dismal accents, would proclaim,
our guardian is no more!
Such, sir, is the only method that occurs to me in the present emer-
gency. I cannot for a moment suspect you of aiming at the subversion of
our liberties; if I did, I should not trouble you with this address. For
a man’s real character I shall ever look into private life; here I have ex-
amined your’s, and find it without a fault. But, sir, though you do not
harbour a sentiment in your royal breast that is destructive to your people,
we know not what your successors may do. The measures pursued since
your reign hath commenced must evidently tend to absolute monarchy.
You cannot blame your subjects for being alarmed, when they behold the
most useless employments created to reward the most worthless of men;
when they see pension after pension bestowed on beings who have never,
in the smallest instance, been of service to their country; but all their
jealousies and fears would cease was the parliament to be restored to its
primitive state; that is only to ne done by withdrawing the temptation
that perverts the institution. At present men lay out money in pur-
chasing seats, as the stock jobber does in the alley, from the expectation
of making hundreds per cent.
These, sir, are the sentiments of a man, who, from his infancy, hath
been taught to think the Hanoverian succession a source of freedom and
independence. Next to my country I would serve you with my life;
God forbid the service of the one should ever be incompatible with that
of the other.
NEWPORT, AUSUST 1.
LAST Wednesday arrived here the ship Swan, captain James
Ayscough, from New York; and brought with him a small pilot
boat, with about one hundred and forty pounds of tea, which he took
off Sandy Hook; he has since failed on a cruise, and on Saturday was
seen off Montague Point, bringing to vessels as they came out of, or
went into, the sound.
We can assure our readers that the town of Boston remains very firm
and resolute, and that nothing, under heaven, can force them to submit
to the assumed right of the present infamous parliament, unless the other
colonies should fail in their support, of which , thank God, there is not
the least probability.
PHILADELPHIA, August 8.
Copy of a LETTER from the committee of BOSTON to the committee of
BALTIMORE.
GENTLEMEN, BOSTON, July 16, 1774.
YOUR important letter of the 27th ult. with the enclosures, came
safe to hand, and were regarded as “good news from a far country.”
The part taken by the province of Maryland must henceforth stop the
mouths of those blasphemers of humanity, who have affected to question
the existence of public virtue. So bright an example as you have set; can-
not fail to animate and encourage even the lukewarm and indifferent,
more especially such honest men as wish to be assured of support before
they engage in so weighty an enterprize.
The account you give of us of the spirit and magnanimity of the people
of Virginia confirm us in the opinion we have ever had of that ancient
colony, of whose disinterested virtue this province has had ample expe-
rience. The noble sacrifice you stand ready to make of the staple com-
modity of your province, so materially affecting the revenue of Great
Britain, and your generous interposition in our favour, have our warmest
acknowledgements. So much honour, wisdom, public and private virtue,
so much readiness in every colony, to afford every species of aid and
assistance that the suffering state requires, must convince a venal herdthat
notwithstanding they may be utterly unacquainted with the meaning of
the word patriotism, it has, however, a substantial existence in North
America. With the smiles of all governing providence upon the vigorous
efforts of our inestimable brethren at home and abroad, we promise our-
selves a final deliverance form the calamities we are now subjected to;
and which, for our own, our country, and posterity’s political salvation,
we resolve, by God’s assistance, to sustain with fortitude and patience.
We are, gentlemen, your friends and fellow countrymen.
Signed by order, WILLIAM COOPER, clerk
Extract of a letter from an officer in the army, now in Ireland, who served
almost all the last war inAmerica, to his friend in this city, dated the
27th of May, 1774.
”I hope my good friends, the Bostonians, may get themselves well
out of the scrape, both to their satisfaction and honour, as a house di-
vided against itself cannot stand. I was well acquainted with many of
their officers that served on different campaigns with me last war, and
proved to be good officers, and brave, worthy men. These are the sen-
timents of many here, who served in American last war, and would shud-
der at the thoughts of being ordered on so disagreeable service as that
of drawing a trigger against an American, and their countrymen. It is
my opinion we should all become Americans sooner than comply with
such an order.”
BALTIMORE (MARYLAND) July 16.
A VESSEL, we hear, hath failed from the eastern shore of this
province with a cargo of provisions, as a free gift to our besieged
brethren at Boston.
The inhabitants of all the counties of Virginia and Maryland are sub-
scribing with great liberality for the relief of the distressed towns of
Boston and Charlestown. The inhabitants of Alexandria, we hear, in a
few hours subscribed THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY POUNDS
for that noble purpose.
Subscriptions are opened in this town for the support and animation of
the inhabitants of Boston, under their present great conflict for the com-
mon freedom of us all, which have already been so successful that a vessel
is now loading with provisions for that place, as a testimony of the
affection of this people towards their persecuted brethren, now bravely
contending against “fraud, power, and the most odious oppression,” which
God grant may never rise triumphant over “right, justice, social happi-
ness, and freedom!”
A GENTLEMAN, upon reading general Gage’s proclamation for
suppressing VICE, &c. observed, that it could be intended only as a
sneer at the Bostonians; and he was very much surprised to find his excellency
asserting that he did it “in humble imitation of his majesty.”---BEWARE
GEESE WHEN THE FOX PREACHES.
AS the governnor, in his extraordinary proclamation, with much seeming
piety too, labours to make the people believe that he is greatly concerned for
their future, as well as present happiness, would it not have tended to pro-
mote such a truly pious purpose had his excellency been a little less on the reserve
after recommending an avoidance of hypocrisy, &c. (example being much
more prevalent than precept) and declared that he did not mean, nor intend,
such offenders of the military as might, either wantonly, maliciously, or con-
trary to the laws of God and man, maim, wound, kill, or plunder, any of the
inhabitants of Massachusetts Bay? All such trifling offences being cognizable
only in Great Britain; as a declaration of this kind must have carried con-
viction with it to the very breast of his excellency's least admirers, not to say
enemies, when there is so much goodness intended to those committed to his
charge. But in order to convince the world that the governor's regard for that
province is unfeigned, it may be necessary to publish the two folloiwng para-
graphs from his excellency's letter to the earl of Hillsborough, dated Boston,
October 31, 1768; by which it will appear that he had the constitution of
that government at heart when he was much less interested in it than he is at
present.
”If it is asked why the governor does not turn all the justices of peace out
of commission, and put others in, who will do their duty, it is answered,
that the governor can neither appoint justices, or turn them out, but by consent
of council; and that the council opposes every thing proposed to the governor,
for the service of government, that is unpopular. From what has been said,
your lordship will conclude that there is no government in Boston. There is, in
truth, very little at present, and the constitution of this province leans so much
to the side of democracy, that the governor has not the power to remedy the
disorders which happen in it.” See printed letters from governor Bernard,
general Gage, and others, to the early of Hillsborough.
From the above description of the general’s, and the measures now carrying
on by the governor, does it not seem as if his excellency’s concern for a reforma-
tion of that constitution had recommended him to administration for the great
and important change that is manifestly intended to be made throughout all the
colonies, after the experiment has succeeded with one?
From the SOUTH CAROLINA GAZETTE.
Mr. TIMOTHY,
THE general cry that has for some time prevailed against my countrymen,
that they are, in toto, inimical to the liberties of America, is so mani-
fest a piece of injustice to them, that I must beg leave to claim a place in your
paper for a few words in behalf of the Scots mechanics of this town, who
are numerous, in general a set of sober, industrious, honest men, and many of
them otherwise respectable: Let others answer for themselves.
This order, Mr. Timothy, I can assure you, are not tainted with those
views and expectations that generally warp men from a proper attention to the
general good. They have experienced the sweets of freedom in this land, and
they will shew that they value it as highly as any other people; they are not
destitute of the same feelings, and they have too much generosity of soul to make
ungrateful returns to their fellow subjects for the favours they daily receive,
in their respective occupations, form the natives in particular.
The day is approaching when every man will be tried; it will then be seen
whether our class are not determined to be free. I dare, be bold to affirm, sir,
that hardly a man of us will be found to withhold his concurrence in whatever
measures the body of the inhabitants shall, on Wednesday next, think necessary
and expedient to be adopted, for the preservation of the just rights of every
American. I am, sir, your’s, &c.
A SCOTS MECHANIC.
As we have already published all the PETITIONS from the
AMERICANS that have come to our hands, respecting the oppressions
exercised towards us by a venal ministry, we hope the following will not
be tiresome to our readers, as it contains sentiments, in our opinion, the
most sensible and judicious.
The humble PETITION of several natives of AMERICA,
SHEWETH,
THAT your petitioners are constrained to complain to this right honoura-
able house of two bills, which, if carried into execution, will be fatal
to the rights, liberty, and peace, of all America.
Your petitioners have already seen, with equal astonishment and grief, pro-
ceedings adopted against them, which, in violation of the first principles of
justice, and of the laws of the land, inflict the severest punishments, without
hearing the accused.
Upon the same principle of injustice, a bill is now brought in, which, under
the profession of better regulating the government of the Massachusetts Bay, is
calculated to deprive a whole province, without any form of trial, of its
chartered rights, solemnly secured to it by mutual compact between the crown
and the people.
Your petitioners are well informed that a charter, so granted, was never
before altered or resumes, but upon a full and fair hearing; that, therefore,
the present proceeding is totally unconstitutional, and sets an example which
renders every charter in Great Britain and America utterly insecure.
The appointment and removal of the judges at the leisure of the governor,
with salaries payable by the crown, puts the property, liberty, and life, of
the subject, depending upon judicial integrity, in his power.
Your petitioners perceive a system of judicial tyranny deliberately at this day
imposed for them, which, from the bitter experience of its intolerable injuries,
has been abolished in this country.
Of the same unexampled and alarming nature is the bill, which, under the
title of a more impartial administration of justice in the province of Massachusetts
Bay, empowers the governor to withdraw offenders from justice; holding out
to the soldiery an exemption from legal prosecution for murder, and, in effect,
subjecting that colony to military execution. Your petitioners entreat this right
honourable house to consider what must be the consequence of sending troops, not
really under the controul of the civil power, and unameniable to the law, where
the crime is committed among a people whom they have been industriously taught,
by the incendiary arts of wicked men, to regard as deserving every species of
insult and abuse. The insults and injuries of a lawless soldiery are such as no
free people can long endure; and your petitioners apprehend, in the consequences
of this bill, the horrid outrages of military oppression, followed by the declaration
of civil commotions.
The dispensing power, which this bill intends to give to the governor, ad-
vanced as he is already above the law, and not liable to any impeachment
from the people he may oppress, must constitute him an absolute tyrant.
Your petitioners would be utterly unworthy of the English ancestry, which
is their claim and pride, if they did not feel a virtuous indignation at the re-
proach of dissatisfaction and rebellion, with which they have been cruelly
aspersed. They can with confidence say no imputation was ever less deserved.
They appeal to the experience of a century, in which the glory, the honour,
the prosperity of England have been, in their estimation, their own; in which
they have not only borne the burthen of provincial wars, but have shared with
this country in the danger and expence of every national war. Their zeal for
the service of the crown, and the defence of the general empire, has promoted
them, whenever it was requires, to vote suppliers of men and money, to the ut-
most exertion of their abilities. The journals of parliament will bear witness to
their extraordinary zeal and services during the last war; and that but a very
short time before it was resolved here to take from them the right of giving and
granting their own money.
If disturbances have happened in the colonies, they entreat this right honour-
able house to consider the causes which have produced the among a people
hitherto remarkable for their loyalty to the crown, and affection for this king-
dom. No bribery can shew, nor will human nature admit of, and instance of
general discontent, but from a general sense of oppression.
Your petitioners conceived, that when they had acquired property, under all
the restraints this country thought necessary to impose upon their commerce, trade,
and manufactures, that property was sacred and secure. The felt a very
material difference between being restrained in the acquisition of property, and
holding it when acquired under those restrictions, at the disposal of others. They
understand subordination in the one, and slavery in the other.
Your petitioners wish they could possibly perceive any difference between the
most abject slavery, and such entire subjection to legislature, in the constitution
of which they have not a single voice, nor the least influence, and in which
no one is present on their behalf. They regard the giving their property, by
their own consent alone, as the unalienable right of the subject, and the last
sacred bulwark of constitutional liberty. If they are wrong in this, they have
been misled by the love of liberty, which is their dearest birthright; by the
most solemn statues, and the resolves of this honourable house itself, declaratory
of the inherent right of the subject; by the authority of all great constitutional
writers, and by the uninterrupted practice of Ireland and America, who have
ever voted their own supplies to the crown; all which combine to prove, that
the property of an English subject, being a freeman, or a freeholder, cannot be
taken from him but by his own consent: To deprive the colonies, therefore, of
this right, is to reduce them to a state of villinage, leaving them nothing they
can call their own, nor capable of any acquisition but for the benefit of others.
It is with infinite and inexpressable concern that your petitioners see in these
bills, and in the principles of them, a direct tendency to reduce their country-
men to the dreadful alternative of being totally enslaved, or compelled into a
contest the most shocking and unnatural with a parent state, which has ever
been the object of their veneration and their love. They entreat this right
honourable house to consider that the restraints, which examples of such severity
and injustice impose, are ever attended with the most dangerous hatred.
In a distress of mind, which cannot be described, your petitioners conjure this
right honourable house not to convert that zeal and affection, which have
hitherto to united every American hand and heart in the interests of England, into
passions the most gainful and pernicious. Most certainly they beseech this right
honourable house not to attempt reducing them to a state of slavery, which the
English principles of liberty they inherit from their mother country will render
worse than death; they, therefore, pray that this right honourable house will
not, by passing these bills, overwhelm them with affliction, and reduce their
countrymen to the most abject state of misery and humiliation, or drive them to
the last resources of despair.---And your petitioners, as in duty bound,
will ever pray.
Of the PROSPECT of ARTS and SCIENCES in AMERICA.
Written near 50 years ago by the celebrated Dr. George Berkely, dean of
Derry, and afterwards lord bishop of Cloyne, while he was in America.
THE muse disfigured at an age and clime,
Barren of every glorious theme,
In distant lands now waits a better time,
Producing subjects worthy fame:
In happy climes, where from the genial fun,
And virgin earth such scenes ensue,
The force of art by nature seems outdone,
And fancied beauties by the true:
In happy climes, the seat of innocence,
Where nature guides, and virtue rules;
Where men shall not impose, for truth, and sense,
The pedantry of courts and schools
There shall be seen another golden age,
The rise of empire and of arts,
The good and great inspiring epic rage,
The wisest heads, and noblest hearts;
Not such as Europe breeds in her decay,
Such as she bred when fresh and young,
When heav’nly flame did animate her clay,
By future ages shall be sung.
Westward the course of empire takes its way:
The four first acts already past,
A fifthshall close the drama with the day;
Time’s noblest offspring is the last.
BON MOTS of the present KING and a GENERAL OFFICER.
HIS majesty taking the air one fine morning on horseback with a
general who often has the hour to attend his royal master, on
passing by a beautiful seat in Surry, the king’s eye was attracted by the
delightful situation, which was heightened by the fineness of the wea-
ther. Pray, general, says his majesty whose rural and pleasant villa is
that? The general feeling the extreme good humour and condescension
of the kind, replied, without hesitation, “Sire, it is the seat of a very
great, and, indeed of a very extraordinary personage.” His majesty,
little imagining what he was going to say, and thinking the officer had
something singular to discover, hastily commanded him to tell who that
extraordinary personage was: “It is, please your majesty, no less a man
than the maker of kings and knaves.” The latter part indicating some-
thing not very respectful, the general finding it gave some disgust, added,
”Sire, though like death he mixes kings and knaves without distinction,
and though he deals largely in knaves, yet he is so good a man as to galn
many hearts, and even more queens.” By this time his majesty per-
ceiving that the villa belonged to a cardmaker, the king’s good humour
returned, and his majesty very pleasantly told the general, “that the
man played his cards well, for it seems they had all turned up turmps!”
CAUTIONS against thethe SEDUCTIONS of PLEASURE.
From lord Chesterfield’s letters to his son.
PLEASURE (says his lordship) is the rock which
most young people split upon; they launch out with
crouded sails in quest of it, but without a compass to
direct their course, or reason sufficient to steer the vessel;
for want of which, pain and shame, instead of pleasure,
are the returns of their voyage. Do not think that I
mean to snarl at pleasure, like a stoic, or to preach against
it like a parson; no, I mean to point it out, and recom-
mend it to you, like an epicurean: I wish you a great
deal; and my only view is to hinder you from mistaking
it.
The character which most young men first aim at is
that of a man of pleasure; but they generally take it
upon truth, and instead of consulting their own taste and
inclinations, they blindly adopt whatever those, with
whom they chiefly converse, are pleased to call by the
name of pleasure; and a man of pleasure, in the vulgar
acceptation of that phrase, means only a beastly drunk-
ard, an abandoned whoremaster, and a profligate swearer
and curser. As it may be of use to you, I am not un-
willing, though at the same time ashamed, to won, that
the vices of my youth proceeded much more from my
silly resolution of being what I heard called a man of
pleasure, than from my own inclinations. I always
naturally hated drinking; and yet I have often drank,
with disgust at the time, attended by great sickness the
next day, only because I then thought drinking as a ne-
cessary qualification for a fine gentleman, and a man of
pleasure.
The same as to gaming: I did not want money, and
consequently had no occasion to play for it; but I
thought play another necessary ingredient in the compo-
sition of a man of pleasure, and accordingly I plunged
into it without desire, at first; sacrificed a thousand real
pleasures to it, and made myself solidly uneasy by it, for
thirty the best years of my life.
I was absurd enough, for a little while, to swear, by
way of adorning and compleating the shining character
which I affected; but this folly I soon laid aside, upon
finding both the guilt and the indecency of it.
Thus seduced by fashion, and blindly adopting nomi-
nal pleasures, I lost real ones; and my fortune impaired,
and my constitution shattered, are, I must confess, the
just punishment of my errors.
Take warning then by them; chuse your pleasures for
yourself, and do not let them be imposed upon you.
Follow nature, and not fashion; weigh the present en-
joyment of your pleasures against the necessary conse-
quences of them, and then let your own common sense
determine your choice.
Were I to begin the world again, with the experience
which I now have of it, I would lead a life of real, not
of imaginary pleasure. I would enjoy the pleasures of
the table, and of wine; but stop short of the pains in-
separably annexed to an excess in either. I would not
at twenty years be a preaching missionary of abstemi-
ousness and sobriety, and I should let other people do as
they would, without formally and sententiously rebuking
them for it; but I would be most firmly resolved not to
destroy my own faculties and constitution, in complai-
sance to those who have not regard to their own. I would
play to give me pleasure, but not to give me pain; that
is, I would play for trifles, in mixed companies, to
amuse myself, and conform to custom; but I would take
care not to venture for sums, which, if I won, I should
not be the better for; but, If I lost, should be under a
difficulty to pay, and, when paid, would oblige me to
retrench in several other articles. Not to mention the
quarrels which deep play commonly occasions.
I would pass some of my time in reading, and the rest
in the company of people of sense and learning, and
chiefly those above me; and I would frequent the mixed
companies of men and women of fashion, which, though
often frivolous, yet they unbend and refresh the mind,
not uselessly, because they certainly polish and soften the
manners.
.
These would be my pleasures and amusements, if I
were to live the last thirty years over again; they are
rational, and moreover, I will tell you, they are really
the fashionable ones; for the others are not, in truth, the
pleasures of what I call people of fashion, but of those
who only call themselves so. Do good company care
to have a man reeling drunk among them, or to see
another tearing his hair, and blaspheming, for having
lost at play more than he is able to pay, or a whore-
master, with half a nose, and crippled by coarse and in-
famous debauchery? No; those who practice, and much
more those who brag of them, make no part of good
company, and are most unwillingly, if ever, admitted
into it.
A real man of fashion and pleasure observes decency;
at least, neither borrows nor affects vices; and if he un-
fortunately has any, he gratifies them with choice, deli
cacy, and secrecy.
I have not mentioned the pleasures of the mind (which
are the solid and permanent ones_ because they do not
come under the hear of what people commonly call
pleasures; which the seem to confine to the senses. The
pleasures of virtue, of charity, and of learning, is true
and lasting pleasure, which I hope you will be well and
long acquainted with. Adieu.
BOSTON, AUGUST 1.
More than sixty days have expired since Boston, by
a late edict of the British parliament, has been
besieged by a British fleet and army, and its trade anni-
hilated. The inhabitants now receive that insult and
damage which was never experienced in the hottest wars
we have been engaged in with France, Spain, and their
allies, the savages of the American woods. The parti
culars of the siege, and the manoeuvers of our enemies,
may in future be told by some able historian. Suffice it
at present to inform the world, that though wood and
provisions have been allowed to us by said port act, the
introduction of these articles has been attended with such
loss of time, and unnecessary charges, as greatly to raise
the price of fuel upon the poor inhabitants. No wood
can now be brought form the rivers and bays included in
our harbour, upon which we depended for a considerable
part of our supply; no goods of any kind are suffered to
be waterborne within a circle of 60 miles; no timber,
boards, shingles, brick, lime, sand, &c. are to be
transported from one wharf to another; and so even the
tradesmen, not immediately dependent upon shipping,
are thrown out of business; no barrels of liquors, bread,
flour, &c. are suffered to be brought a few rods in our row
boats, or across our shortest ferried; and even the vessels
on the stocks, which have for some time past been ready
for launching, cannot be put into the water, without
their being exposed to a threatened seizure; neither is
the dried table fish and oil, the charity of our Marble-
head friends, nor rice, the generous presents of the Caro-
linians, nor even house sand, to be brought us by water,
but must be encumbered with the great charge of land
carriage of about 30 miles; we are also cut off from the
advantage and profit of supplying, as usual, an extent of
sea coast on the north and south of more than 100 leagues,
even with British merchandize; and when any of these
hardships and distresses are mentioned to those insolents
in office, the commissioners, and their understrappers, we
are told it was the design of the act, and it is not their
intent to lessen these difficulties. This is the treatment
meted out by a British minister to a town and province,
by whose exertions in a late war, the strong fortress of
Louisburg was taken, which purchased the peace of
Europe, and delivered Britons from their terrible ap-
prehensions of an invasion by French flat bottomed boats.
What further cruelties we are to suffer we know not; but
whether America, or even this single town, is in this way
to be brought to the feet of lord North, with the full
surrender of their inestimable rights and liberties, time
only can determine.
Mrs. Rind,
If you are open to all parties, and influenced by none,
by inferring the following lines you will greatly oblige
A SINCERE FRIEND.
THE man, what’er be his pretence,
Who obviates justice, forfeits sense,
If he’s secure from goal, no matter,
Tho’ every schoolman makes a clatter,
’Tis all his patriotic view,
From others to withhold their due;
No wonder then he censure those
Who wou’d his fraudful schemes oppose;
Of him let every sex beware,
Nor let him be one lady’s care;
Let MIDDLESEX his hate despise,
For to be just is to be wise.
MANY of our readers may probably be pleased with the following
little PRODUCTION, which was made public some years ago, in
in
honour of that worthy and much admired FRATERNITY, the FREE
MASONS, and therefore may not think it amiss to see if revived:----A
young gentleman was in company with some ladies, when, among other
subjects of conversation, FREE MASONRY offered itself. The
ladies were witty upon its mysteriousness, but particularly upon their being
excluded from the society, and desired the gentleman to let them know
what could be the use or intention of so strange an association. He
promised to give them a full account of the institution, if they would
permit him to wait upon them the next day; they consented, and agreeable
to his promise, he presented them the following VERSES:
On FREE MASONRY.
OUR order, ancient as the world’s first date,
Sacred as virtue, and as fix’d as fate,
To ALL and equal LIBERTY impart,
The soul improves, and rectifies the heart;
BENEVOLENCE with CHARITY combines,
And, fix’d in FRIENDSHIP, and in VIRTUE shines.
In FREEDOM equal, we all pride disclaim,
And hail each other with a BROTHER’S NAME;
Here mirth by strictest decency is rul’d,
And servent youth by aged precepts cool’d.
Nor vice nor riot can have entrance here,
Nor words that may offend a virtuous ear.
In this a true FREE MASON you will know,
A friend to virtue, and to vice a foe;
True to his prince, obedient to the laws,
But ever firm to die in FREEDOM’s cause.
With honest zeal he spurns each private end,
A constant LOVER, and a faithful FRIEND.
Nor you, YE FAIR! impute to us disgrace,
That we exclude ye from this sacred PLACE;
Full well we know the tenderness we bear,
For what creation boasts MOST WINNING FAIR;
From whence of old the interdiction sprung,
Which ALL hath suffer’d for the fault of ONE.
Th’ advice of EVE, and her delusive grace,
From bliss and freedom drove her wretched RACE;
The fault lamented, and the evil felt,
Long on the minds of our forefathers dwelt:
Hence female councils they excluded leave,
And in her DAUGHTERS fear another EVE.
Firm in this RULE the fix’d FOUNDATION lies,
And time, and change, and calumny, defies;
Hence unreveal’d our MYSTERIES remain,
Nor sins original, our craft defame.
Of every age the envy, pride and fame;
Monarchs have boasted a FREE MASON’S NAME!
WILLIAMSBURG.
EXTRACT of a LETTER from LIVERPOOL to his CORRESPONDENT in
VIRGINIA.
THE minister, without intending it, is about doing your coun-
try most essential service, by entreating your numbers, and
furnishing your people with the knowledge of military discipline. This
seems obvious to a person who considers that the generous nature of an
English soldier will not allow him to fight against his innocent country-
men, who are contending only for their liberty and just rights; and I
am sure that all soldiers, who quit the arbitrary service they are in, and
the bad business of oppressing their friends and countrymen, will be re-
ceived with open arms in your country, protected, and encouraged, with
good living, and an opportunity of fixing on good lands, where they may
live easily and happily.
Wednesday evening last an express arrived in this city, who reports
that many families have very lately been barbarously murdered on the
frontiers of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and that his excellency lord
DUNMORE is endeavoring all in his power to repel those hostile and in-
human savages. Colonel Preston, and colonel Lewis, it seems, have
raised a thousand men each; and it is reported also that a like number
have enlisted under his lordship’s banner, he, as well as them, being
greatly exasperated at the late cruel and intolerable treatment of the
Indians towards the white people residing at or near the back parts of
this colony.
On the 10th instant dies, the reverend JAMES WISHART, rector of
Brunswick parish, in King George county.
MANCHESTER, August 18, 1774.
Yesterday, in this town, came on trial of Lord N___h, before a
court of the sons of liberty, on suspicion of his having betrayed his trust,
and endeavored to enslave his majesty’s subjects in America: After an
impartial trial, he was unanimously condemned, and sentenced to ride on
an ass through the streets, led by a deformed African, whose body was
tarred and feathered, and his face painted, and from thence to the gal-
lows, there to be hanged and burnt, which was accordingly done. In
his last and dying speech he confessed the justness of his suffering, and
predicted that it would not be long before some of his most intimate ac-
quaintance, and principle admirers, who had been instrumental towards
hjis suffering, would share the same fate. The penitent appearance of
this noble lord excited compassion in the minds of some of the spectators;
but reflecting on the cause of his suffering, joined in the acclamation of
the people, and with one voice cried, “Away with him! Away with
this destroyer of the rights and privileges of his majesty’s good subjects in
America, and let him suffer according to demerit!”
NORFOLK, August 22, 1774. In consequence of letters from the
committees of correspondence for St. Mary’s and Charles counties in
Maryland, and from the burgesses of Elizabeth City county in this co-
lony, with information of the arrival of nine chests of TEA on board
the brigantine Mary and Jane, captain Chapman, consigned to some
gentlemen of this town, a meeting of the inhabitants was requested, and
accordingly held, at the courthouse this day, when it was
UNANIMOUSLY RESOLVED, that the teas now on board the brig-
antine Mary and Jane, and consigned to Neil Jamieson and company,
George and John Bowness, and John Lawrence and company, being
subject to the payment of duties imposed by an act of the British parlia-
ment, ought to be sent back, and not suffered to be landed; and there-
fore.
ORDERED, that captain Abyvon, Mr. Boush, captain Loyall, Mr.
Richard Taylor, and captain Selden, be a committee to wait upon those
gentlemen, to know whether they will comply with the above resolu-
tion; and that they report their several answers.
The committee accordingly waited on those gentlemen, and made the
following return, in writing:
”GENTLEMEN,
”WE your committee, agreeable to your resolve, have waited on the
”within mentioned Neil Jamieson and company, George and John
”Bowness, and John Lawrence and company, owners of the tea now on
”board the brigantine Mary and Jane, and acquainted them with your
”resolution, who severally and respectively answered, that they were
”willing that the tea should be sent back. Certified under our hands
”this 22d day of August 1774.
GEORGE ABYVON,
SAMUEL BOUSH,
PAUL LOYALL,
RICHARD TAYLOR,
JOHN SELDEN.:
WHICH RETRN BEING READ AND HEARD, IT WAS
Unanimously voted, that the above committee wait upon those gentle-
men, owners of the tea, with the thanks of this meeting, for their
ready and cheerful acquieseence in the above resolution.
WILLIAM DAVIES, clerk.
JAMES HALDANE,
COPPERSMITH and BRASSFOUNDER,
in CHURCH STREET, near the CHURCH, NORFOLK,
CONTINUES TO CARRY ON HIS BUSINESS AS USUAL,
MAKES and sells all sorts of COPPER WORK, viz. stills,
brewing coppers, sugar boilers, fullers and hatters coppeas, brass
millwork, capuchin plate warmers, tea kitchens, all sorts of ship, fish,
and wash kettles, stew pans, Dutch ovens, tea kettles, sauce pans, coffee
and chocolate pots, &c. at the most reasonable rates. he gives the best
prices for old copper, brass, pewter, or lead.
Those who are so obliging, as to favour me with their employ in
the mending or tinning old work, may depend on having them soon
done, and in the neatest and compleatest manner.
FAUQUIER, August 16, 1774.
RUN away on the 3d of this instant (August) from my quarter, on
Carter’s Run, a negro wench named WINNEY; she is about
eighteen or twenty years of age, 5 feet 3 or 4 inches high, of a yellowish
complexion had on when she went away an oznabrig shift, petticoat, and
jacket; she also took with her a white dowlas jacket and petticoat, and
a great variety of other clothes. She being an artful, subtle wench, I
imagine will frequently change her dress. I do not recollect any parti-
ular mark she has in her face, though I am told there is a lump upon
the back of her neck, occasioned by the cut of a switch. About three
years ago she made an elopement, and got into Maryland,, near Port
Tobacco where she passed several months for a free woman, and went by
the name of Winney Redman. Whoever will take up the said wench, and
deliver her to me, in Fauquier county, near the courthouse, or to my
overseer, on Carter’s Run, in the said county, shall receive TWENTY
SHILLINGS reward, if taken up in the said county, if in the adjacent
counties FORTY SHILLINGS, if out of the colony FIVE POUNDS,
besides what the law allows, and all reasonable charges paid.
3 JAMES SCOTT, junior.
FREDERICKSBURG, August 9, 1774.
A PERSON of the name of WILLIAM FOSTER CROSBY having procured a
recommendation to me, I lent him, the 19th of last month, my
SINGLE CHAIR and a MARE to visit captain John Lee, on Rappa-
hannock,to whom he said he was recommended, to return in four days
at the most; but not hearing of him since, except that he had mistaken
his way, and to to Richmond, on Jamesriver, and colonel William
Fleming’s in Cumberland county, I am obliged to take this method of
recommending him to all honest men, as a profound knave. Such a
flagrant act of injustice, accompanied with such ingratitude to me, will
no doubt engage every gentleman to endeavour to strip him of the price
of his villainy: But I will gladly pay FORTY SHILLINGS to have my
mare and chair detained till I can send for them, or FIVE POUNDS to
be delivered here. As the knave is young, I had rather he should turn
from his wickedness and live!
He is about twenty, of slim and genteel make, and fair complexion,
rather pale and foul skin, black hair, very long, and clubbed like
a macaroni! He is exceeding vain, boasts much of his learning, particu-
larly of geography, and professes teaching the classics, music, dancing,
and fencing; he grins much when he laughs, which he often does at his
own wit. His dress was shabby; I believe, one only coat, formerly a
pale blue, or sea green, the cuffs of which have been lately let down,
and the original colour makes a remarkable ring round his arm. He
passed on my friend, as from New England, and said he intended to visit
Virginia, in his way to Charlestown, South Carolina, in ooder from New
England to see the country , expecting here some supplies he had ordered
from New England.
I cannot recollect whether the mare has any brand or flesh marks; she
is about 14 hands and a half high, half clouded, well made, rather round,
a chesnut bay, with a full long bob tail, and hog mane, very small feet,
and shod before, trots very nimbly, and remarkably low. The carriage
of the chair is new, the springs and axletree are iron, the body is
painted green, with the initials of my name on the back, in a double
cypher, in blue letters, in a gilt ground; it has been new lined, and has
now a carpet bottom; but I suspect he will quit of the chair for a saddle.
He borrowed a SILVER WATCH, quite new, made by THOMAS
WALKER, of Fredericksburg, who will, I presume, give something to re-
cover it. tf JAMES MERCER.
To be SOLD, the first day of November next.
SUNDRY HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE. Six
months credit will be allowed for all sums above 5l. on giving a
conditional bond, to carry interest from the date, if not punctually paid.
Five per cent. discount for ready money will be agreed to. At the same
time will be offered for sale, the LOTS and HOUSES whereon I live,
conveniently situated in Fredericksburg, for either store, tavern, or private
family, and are as valuable as any lots and houses in the town of the same
size. Also two lots, well enclosed with a stable 50 by 60 feet; and two
lots, near the courthouse, enclosed with a dwellinghouse unfinished, 50
feet square, the finest situation in the town, and commands a fine view
of both town and country. Likewise 15 acres of meadow ground, near
the town, and under a good fence. Also 391 acres of land, near the
center of this county, on 328 of which is a lease for six years, at a good
rent; and 100 acres of land on East North East Bridge: For all, or
either of which, may be had great bargains, both in price, and time of
payment; or, in case the purchasers chuse it, and will give a price agree-
able, they many em>never pay, upon paying the interest annually; for which
the lands will be taken in part, as security. In case I do not sell, I
would willingly rent on reasonable terms, for a year, or term of years.
3 BENJAMIN JOHNSTON.
WE will dispose of the LOTS and IMPOVEMENTS in Frede-
ricksburg, where the BREWERY now stands; there are three
lots and a hald. On the lot and a half, which are situate on the river,
are the brewhouse, malthouse, comptinghouse, cooper’s shop, &c. all
new, and in good order for carrying on the brewing business. We would
also sell the implements and stock belonging to the brewery. The other
lots are contiguous, and paled in, having thereon a small dwellinghouse,
and stable with stalls for eight horses. The terms may be known by
applying to William Woodford.
(2) JONES & WOODFORD.
WHEREAS I have lately purchased a tract of LAND, formerly
the property of Anthony Strother, merchant, deceased, lying in
Culpepper county, on the Robsinson Fork, and sold by him to colonel Philip
Rootes, of King & Queen, but I am informed it was conveyed by the
honourable John Tayloe, esquire, to Mr. Roger Dixon, deceased, any
person who has any right in the said tract of land are desired to make it
known immediately.
(3) CHRISTOPHER DICKON.
KING WILLIAM, August 10, 1774.
INTEND TO ENGLAND IMMEDIATELY
(3) JOHN HURT.
THREE POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from the subscriber, on Herring Bay, in Anne Arundel
county, Maryland, an indented servant man named HENRY
REED, who professes the coachmaker’s business, is about 22 years old,
5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, well made, full face, dark hair, little or no
beard, and very talkative; had on, and took with him, a white negro
cotton jacket and waistcoat, trowsers of ditto, half worn, 2 oznabrig
shirts, coarse shoes, old hat, and a check handkerchief; but probably he
may change his dress, as he went away with one JOHN WHITE, an indented
servant. I understand they stopped at a plantation belonging to the earl
of
Dunmore, in Berkeley county, Virginia. Whoever secures the said
servant, so that I get him again, shall be entitled to the above reward.
I imagine he has got in some coachmaker’s shop in Virginia. All masters
of vessels are forewarned from taking him on board their vessels.
3 ISAAC SIMMONS.
PURSUANT to an order of Amherst court, will be let, to the lowest
bidder, at the courthouse of the said county, on the first Monday
in November next, being court day, the building of a PRISON, 37 by
22, the walls of which to be of brick and timber, 3 feet thick, to be
9 feet pitch in the clear, and to have a brick rood; a plan of which will
be shewn, and a more particular description given, on the day. Bond
and approved security will be required of the undertaker for his perform-
ance of the same. WILLIAM CABELL,
COR THOMAS,
(3) AMBROSE RUCKER.
NORFOLK, July 30, 1774.
WANTED, for Elizabeth River parish, a CLERK. As the
emoluments arising from the said parish are very considerable,
none need apply, unless he produces a recommendation of his good cha-
racter, who can read tolerably, and perform psalmody well.
(3) THOMAS DAVIS, MINISTER.
TAKEN up, in Sussex,a bay mare about 4 or 5 inches high,
branded on the near buttock I, docked, has some white strokes on
both her fore legs, is a natural pacer, and is about 15 years old. Posted,
and appraised to 4l. PETER JONES.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, a grey mare, about 4 feet 7 inches and a half
high, docked, but not branded, has been hurt by a saddle on each
side her back, had on a bell, fixed on with a brass buckle, and appears to
be about 4 or 5 years old. Posted, and appraised to 12l.
() SARAH GIBSON.
TAKEN up, in Hanover, a black horse, 4 feet 8 inches high, and
branded on the near buttock T. Posted, and appraised to 10l.
() JOHN T. BICKERTON.
TAKEN up, in Culpepper, a roan mare, about 4 feet 1 inch high, and
about 6 years old, branded on the near shoulder ɔ, part of one of her
hind feet white, has some white hairs in her forehead, much scarred on
her back, and is a natural pacer. Posted, and appraised to 1l. 15s.
() JOHN SWINDELL.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, an iron grey horse, with a light mane
and tail, the mane half ridged, about 4 feet 6 or 7 inches high,
branded MP, in a piece, on the near buttock, shoulder, jaw, and
on the off buttock C; he is about 9 years old. Posted, and appraised to
10l. () THOMAS ALLEN.
TAKEN up, in King William, near Aylett’s warehouse, a small grey
mare, about 4 feet high, sprig tail, and hanging mane, half of which
has been cut, and branded on the near buttock something like an
anchor. Posted, appraised to 3l.
() WILLIAM COWNE, junior.
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 jo-
hannes, of nine penny weight, to be delivered by him at Quebec, and as
he has not yet made his appearance there, with other suspicious circum-
stances, 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 small pox, 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 se-
cures the said Joseph Thorp in any of is majesty’s gaols on this continent
shall be entitled to ten per cent. on the sum recovered, and the above
reward of 50l. when convicted. Apply to Curson and <Seton of New York,
Joseph Wharton, junior, of Philadelphia, Robert Christie of Batimore,
James Gibson and company of Virginia, John Bondfield of Quebec, Me-
latiah Bourne, or John Rowe, of Boston. It is requested of those who
may have seen this Joseph Thorp since the 19th of June last, or
know any thing of the rout he has taken, that they convey the most
early intelligence thereof to any of the above persons, or Greenwood, Rit-
son, and March, in Norfolk, or to Mr. Robert Pleasants and company, at
Four Mile creek, Henrico county; the favour will be gratefully acknow-
ledged. All matters of vessels are forewarned from taking him off the
continent.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND, containing upwards of 3000 acres, in the
county of Richmond, upon Rappahannock river, opposite to the seat
of Robert Beverly, esquire, extending more than 2 miles upon the river;
the land is extremely well timbered, a great part of it lies well, and is
equal to any in that part of the country. There are also, beside the
quantity of dry land above mentioned, between 4 and 500 acres of valua
ble marsh, which may easily be reclaimed; a large water course running
through the greatest part of the tract affords a considerable quantity of
rich, valuable meadow land, and a good mill seat, There are also several
delightful situations for a gentleman’s seat, commanding extensive prof-
spects up and down the river, where the greatest plenty of fish and fowl
are to be had. A part of the tract is in possession of several tenants at
will, some of whom pay from 20l to 25l. annual rent for 100 acres. It
will be sold (and may be entered upon next Christmas) either together,
or in parcels, by private bargaining, at any time before the 10th of October,
and if not disposed of before that time (of which notice shall be published
in this gazette) it will then be offered for public sale, upon the premises,
on the 3d Monday in November. Twelve or 13 months credit will be
allowed, upon giving bond, with good security; to bear interest from the
25th of December, if the purchase money is not paid agreeable to the
contract. The terms will be made known to those who incline to pur-
chase privately, and the lands shewn, if required, and an undoubted title
made, by the subscriber, living in Westmoreland county.
10|| c 1- oct. WILLIAM BERNARD.
To be SOLD, by the printer hereof,
A pew copies of QUINCY’s OBSERVATIONS ON THE BOSTON
PORT BILL, SERMONS to ASSES, and the HISTORY of
JULIET GRANVILLE, by the celebrated Mr. Brooke.
A GENERAL MEETING of the subscribers for opening a naviga-
tion through the falls of James river is desired, at the house of
Mr. James Gunn, in the town of Richmond, on Monday the 5th day of
September next.
ARCHIBALD CARY, JOHN WOODSON,
Ro. C. NICOLAS, JOHN TABB,
WILLIAM CABELL, WILLIAM FLEMING,
JOHN BANISTER, JOHN MAYO,
RICHARD ADAMS, CARTER BRAXTON
JOSEPH CABELL, August 7, 1774. 3
STRAYED or stolen from the subscriber in Fredericksburg, a likely
sorrel mare, about 14 hands high, branded T, with a small a blze in
her face, her shoulder has been galled by working, but is now well, has
some saddle spots, paces, trots, and gallops. Any person that will bring
her to me, in Fredericksburg, shall receive THREE DOLLARS.
3 JACOB WHITLER.
TAKEN up, in Halifax county, about 5 miles above Booker’s ferry,
near Staunton river, a bay mare, about 4 feet 1 inch and a half high,
with a good bell on, branded on the near shoulder TD, and on the near
buttock ROSE, about 7 years old, and crestfallen. Posted, and ap-
praised to 4l. 10s. JAMES BATES.
THE subscriber intends to leave Petersburg about the 1st of September,
and as he has several WATCHES belonging to different people in
his custody, will be much obliged to the proprietors to call fo them as
soon as possible, otherwise I propose taking them away with me.
(3) WILLIAM BATHGATE.
DUMFRIES, July 28, 1774.
THE DUMFRIES JOCKEY CLUB PURSE of 100 GUINEAS
is to be run for on Tuesday the 15th of November next, which is
fixed on for the 1st day of the Dumfriesraces for this year. No person
will be allowed to start a horse, mare, or gelding, for this purse, but an
actual member of the club. There will be a SUBSCRIPTION
PURSE run for the second day, and another the third day, of the
races. The particulars with regard to them will be advertised hereafter.
A premium of five GUINEAS will be given to the person or persons
that brings the largest and fattest bullock to this market the Saturday
before the races; a premium of three GUINEAS to the person or per-
sons that brings the six largest and fattest muttons; and a premium to
the person or persons that brings the two largest and fattest veals.
4 RICHARD GRARAM, SECRETARY.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder,at WESTBURY, the seat of the late
colonel Littlebury Cocke, in Charles City, on Charles City, on Thursday, the 25th of
August next, if fair, if not the next fair day,
TEN likely Virginia born SLAVES, consisting of men, women, and
children, one of which is a very good HOUSECARPENTER;
also stocks of cattle, horses, hogs, and sheep, and sundry household and
kitchen furniture, belonging to the estate of the said Littlebury Cocke.
One or two of the slaves will be sold for ready money, and six months
credit allowed for the remainder, on giving bond, with approved security,
to carry interest from the date, if not punctually paid. All persons have-
ing demands against the said estate are desired to attend the sale with their
several claims, properly authenticated.
WILLIAM EDLOE,
tdf WILLIAM GREEN MUNFORD.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Amherst, the 10th of July, a
mulatto woman slave named SALL, though commonly goes by the
name of SALLY GREY; she is of the middle size, well shaped, Vir-
giniaborn, about 25 years old, and had on a brown jacket and pet-
ticoat; I cannot learn that she carried any other clothes with her. She
is of a numerous family of mulattoes, and formerly belonged to a gen-
tleman of the name of Howard, in York county, from whence I pur-
chased her a few years ago, and where probably she may attempt to go
again, or perhaps into Cumberland or <Amelia, where, I am informed,
many of her kindred live. I shall esteem it as a particular favour of those
gentlemen who have of her relations in their possession to have her ap-
apprehended, should she be lurking about their plantations; and I will give
a handsome reward, besides what the law allows, to any person who shall
deliver her to me. 6 GABRIEL PENN.
TO BE SOLD,
THE noted and well accustomed TAVERN, at present occupied by
the subscriber, lying in James City county, about 15 miles from
Williamsburg, on the main road leading to New Kent courthouse and
Ruffin’s ferry, with 500 acres of LAND in good order for cropping, and
6 fields under good fence. The terms of payment will be made easy by
the subscriber. THOMAS DONCASTLE.
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 Flem-
ing, John Massey, and John Lain, are now in possession
of the plantations, who will shew the land to any person
inclinable to purchase, and Major Thomas Johnson will
agree with them for the price. The above tract is esteem-
ed the most valuable in Louisa for growing corn, wheat,
or tobacco, and situation in the bst range for stock of any
below the great mountains. (tf 1*)
RUN away, from Neabsco furnace, the 16th of
March, a light coloured mulatto man named
BILLY, or WILL, the property of the honourable
John Tayloe, esquire. When I tell the public that he
is the same boy who for many years used to wait on me,
in my travels through this and the neighboring pro-
vince, and by his pertness, or rather impudence, was
well known to all my acquaintances, there is the less
occasion for a particular description of him. However,
as he is now grown to the size of a man, and had not at-
tended me for some time past, I think it is not amiss to say
that he is a very likely young fellow, about 20 years
old, 5 feet 9 inches high, stout an strong made, has a
remarkable swing in his walk, but is much more so by a
surprising knack he has of gaining the good graces of
almost every body who will listen to his bewitching and
deceitful tongue, which seldom or ever speaks the truth.
He has a small scar on the right side of his forehead, and
the little finger of his right hand is quite straight by a
hurt he got when a child. Had on, when he went away,
a blue fearnought jacket, and an under one of green
baize, cotton breeches, oznabrig shirt, mixed blue sale
stockings, country made shoes, and yellow buckles.
From his ingenuity, he is capable of doing almost any
sort of business, and for some years past, has been chiefly
employed as a founder, a stone mason, and a miller, as
occasion required; one of which trades, I imagine, he
will, in the character of a free man, profess. I have
some reason to suspect his travelling towards James river,
under the pretense of being sent by me on business.
Whoever apprehends the said fellow, and brings him to
me, or to his master, the honourable John Tayloe, at
Mountairy, or secure him so as to be had again, shall
have treble what the law allows, and all reasonable
charges paid. tf
THOMAS LAWSON.
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 bult, with a
stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILL-
STONES, which mill has for two years past got up-
wards 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 merchant notes. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probable we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
FOR SALE,
FIVE hundred acres of land, lying on Deep Creek, in
Louisa, about 45 miles of Richmond town, and is
exceeding good land, well watered by Deep Creek, and
a large branch thereof, which runs through the middle
of the land, and affords a large quantity of rich meadow
ground. Any person inclinable to purchase may see the
land, and know the terms, by applying to the subscriber,
living near it. tf 1* GEORGE MERIWETHER.
TO be SOLD, at public auction, at Westmoreland court-
house, on Tuesday the 27th day of September, being
Westmoreland court day,
TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born SLAVES.
Credit will be allowed until the 10th of November
following, on giving bond and good security. The
bonds to bear interest from the date, if not punctually
discharged.
tdf RICHRD PARKER.
TO BE RENTED,
FROM YEAR TO YEAR, OR FOR A TERM OF YEARS,
BELVOIR,
THE beautiful seat of the honourable George William
Fairfax, esquire, lying upon Potowmack river, in
Fairfax county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The
mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four con-
venient 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 furnish-
ed 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 se-
veral valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land
in different parts, which may be let altogether, or sepa_
rately, as shall be found most convenient. The terms
maybe known of Colonel Washington, who lives near
the premises, or of me, in Berkeley county,
tf FRANCIS WILLIS, junior.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
For SALE,
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 situ-
ation 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 years 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.
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.
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 with
out 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 Appo-
mattox 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 wea-
ther, two canoe loads of wheat were carried near to
Petersburg, and the canoe loads 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 sending wheat, tobacco, &c. will be trifling.
Any person inclinable to purchase will see, by the produce
o the land, that it is exceeding rich. I really do not
know of 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 advantage-
ous 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 incumberance whatsoever.
A reasonable time of payment will be allowed.
tf ANTHONY WINSTON.
YORK town, June 9, 1773.
THE subscribers being very solicitous to comply with
the will of their testator, the lare Honourable
William Nelson, desire that all persons who were indebted
to him will endeavor 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. NCHOLAS.
THURSDAY, MAY 5, 1774. THE NUMBER 417.
VIRGINIA GAZETTE
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12 s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3 s. the first Week,
and 2 s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.———PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
Mrs. RIND,
Be kind enough to give the enclosed a place in your next
paper.
To the honourable the POLITICAL COLLEGE shortly
expected to meet in consultation upon the EXPEDIENTS
of the COMMUNITY.
GENTLEMEN of the CONCLAVE,
WILLING as I am to presume, by your
constitutional election, your right to be
deemed as chosen from among the most
discreet of your several counties, agreeable
to the wisdom of that direction by which
your constituents ought to have elected you. I will
hope, nevertheless, that a cautionary hint or two from
a life quite grey with a constant digesting observation,
on every thing almost within its occurrence, will not
derogate from your discretion. Let it not, therefore,
occasion a reflection upon your wisdom, by any ill
favoured mode of reception.
Tobacco, possibly the first and most natural staple of
your climate, has been, and will forever in the nature
of things be, as fluctuating a vendible as any commodity
whatever; but as being a staple, on every fall of it in
price, I do suppose it has happened, that preferable to
all other things, your college, out of its great attach-
ment to the community, has, from a time almost imme-
morial, attempted to counteract, as it were, this its
fluctuability, though seemingly one of the most invaria-
ble intentions of nature, in all created things, and that
by remedies hardly adequate to any real cause, could
such a thing ever be discovered in these sublunary
changes. Now although this observation, generally on
all fluctuability, might be well supported by very just
arguments, yet as it may be incautiously carried too far
by some, even to the restraining of every human enquiry
into things, where the immediate causes are not quite
evident, I beg that I may not be misunderstood to mean
that any thing which does happen ought not to be investi-
gated for its proper prevention, either because it may
seem to be produced by nature, or that at first it may
appear to be out of the reach of human philosophy. But
I would hint, by the observation, that some things are
so involved with their concomitant circumstances, that
it must require as intense a study to unfold their causes,
and proceed to prevent or remedy them among the poli-
tical, as some disorders of the human body evidently do
among the medical tribe; for instance, the gout, and
that too sensible disorder in this climate called the irre-
gular quartan. These, however felt, are still so unknown
in their real causes, that the most judicious among phy-
sicians do always shew an unwillingness even to palliate
those severe symptoms which sometimes do attend them,
and perhaps for one of the best reasons in the world;
because nature, seldom to be charged with neglecting
to remove particular complaints, can never be easy under
the least interruption to her own salutary efforts, which
at the time she possibly may be engaged in. Certainly,
then, if she should determine gently to lead any morbi-
dity out at a swelled foot, a toe, or through the com-
mon draught, &c. none but some hair brained repelling
quack would venture to turn such an enemy back through
the stomach or head, as the fittest place for its departure.
And yet as absurd as this must seem to be, both to rea-
son and common sense, I cannot help thinking that it
has been almost a general practice, both on the political
and the human body. The Gothamites, amongst either
tribe, first resolve every flight tendency into an evil to be
removed, and of course intrude, in so doing, their learn-
ed somethings, and then propound their blunders, as a
remedy for that something, without a known cause. So
that had not nature been kind in her obstinacy to pursue
her changes and fluctuations, the public must have sub-
mitted to a different fate from what it has often happily
experienced long ago, as many privates certainly have
done. But, gentlemen, to fit my parrallels or compari-
sons out with as many legs as the late coursers of Pur-
die’s raceground seem to require, I shall endeavour to
explain my hint a little more, by reminding you of some
former deliberations, pretty similar to what you may be
at his period engaged in. On a like occasion, when
tobacco had fallen nearly to its lowest possible price, ever
to be exported by the labour of man, for the use of those
who do not make it, your college then deemed the cause
of that evil too riginate in the meanness of the commodity;
but upon what other principle than that of a common
presumption, that when things sell low they must be bad,
I never could learn; and if that was the principle, I
must say, that there cannot be a greater absurdity pre-
sumed, than that the lowness of the price sold at must
demonstrate the quality of the thing sold. Such a mode
of reasoning must particularly presume that every pur-
chaser and seller has a degree of perfectness in him, not
often to be fancied in any man quasi (as it is termed)
a buyer and seller, especially at 3000 miles distance off
from the principal. And may not the redundancy of a
thing at market be also a cause for a low sale? I ask this
question, because the same college, presently after, sub-
stituted this very thing as the cause of another decline in
price, and with just as much reason as they did that of
the quality, as I believe I shall presently be able to de-
monstrate. Will not, then, the confining this observed
fluctuability in the prices of things, to quality and quan-
tity alone, operate as a good proof of the impropriety of
any interposition to prevent such changes? From hence,
then, I would deduce the difficulty that must attend both
the political and medical tribes whenever they engage in
matters, though really not uncommon, yet too much
involved (as before) for any but the most informed un-
derstandings to determine upon; and I hope my hint
intended will carry some conviction with it. I will now
endeavour to confirm it a little more, by shewing the
inadequateness of the remedies which have been pursued,
for the prevention, or rather relief, of these sensible, but
really sublunary changes, which do at times interrupt
our pleasures much more than they would if we did but
consider them so natural as to be expected, and only to
be guarded against, by what most deserves the appellation
of prudence, a forethought as to every thing that may
happen. In this particular instance, the meanness of the
quality being the cause concluded on, of the lowness of
tobacco at home, in order to amend that, a law was
enacted, that all the commodity to be exported should
pass the examination of certain judges called agents, as
conveniently situated as things would admit of. And
just as it often happens to the most unlucky practitioner
(at all other times) by having a constitution to handle
strong enough to outlive his blunders, the patient reco-
vering, in spight of every contrary effort, gives applause
to the doctor and his remedy; I say that law availed itself
much of a succeeding rise, though it actually happened,
in part, through a natural course of fluctuation, and
perhaps, it was assisted from some motive of real interest,
in another very presumptive cause of these low sales;
I mean by the merchants, who shall be considered out of
the conclave, since trade is seldom a just subject of legisla-
tion, for them to be introduced there, but when the
dupes to mercantile bondage are willing to indulge it
with heavier yokes than the constitution of justice gene-
rally submits to, in any other instance. The rise in the
price that succeeded was imputed to the effects of that
law, although it was at that time a well known fact, that
corruption, with its pleasing form of gain, did almost
instantly present itself to those very agents, with the
temptation of both private and extraordinary fees, that
were to be got by hiring out the stamping irons, of their
office to such as could pay for them; by which means
abundance of our spare brickbats, old grindstones, and
other useless rubbish, got duly to the markets, which no
doubt rose very fast on such notable proofs of amendment
in the quality of the commodity: Whilst the honest, but
indigent planter, became either obliged to submit his la-
bour (to give a credit to the law) to be condemned, or
to part with his commodity at an under rate to those who
could pay those fees. At that time enormity, ever at-
tendant on corruption, not so well versed as now-a-days in
the modes of disguise, grew with the temptation so fast, that
the wisdom of the day, taking into a due consideration both
the temptation, and the power to be deduced from the
law to effect such injuries, more than the simple punish-
ment of offenders in a few discoverable instances, that
the community might be no longer imposed upon through
a mistaken remedy, productive of a much greater evil
than that which the act intended to relieve, as all cor-
ruption, like the well known cancer, once established,
never ceases to branch out into most dreadful effects; I
say, that wisdom either suffered that law to expire, or
quashed it by a repeal. What would we not now think if
the same prudence in legislation should be but as active
in cases of similar inadequate remedies, which cannot
be proved to answer any other end but the propagation
of corruption amongst us? But this in its proper place.
Again, gentlemen, tobacco, according to its course in
fluctuation, fell in price, or, as we say, when the moon
is at its greatest fulness it changed; and how much is it
to be wished that we were but as well acquainted with
the real cause of the changes in tobacco as we are with
those of the moon, we might then possibly be satisfied
that it will continue to do so, either from the corrupti-
ons of human nature, or from some appointment through
nature itself, let ever so many tincklers, as the Scotch boy
told Whitefield, busy themselves to amend it. At this
fall in price, as there are seemingly but two causes amongst
us to be presumed, I mean the quality and the quantity,
the latter became the object of endeavour to raise the
price again; and though the mode of lessening the quan-
tity was really to be proved at the time, and is known
to be so now, as inadequate as possible to the purpose of
the presumed cause, to wit, the excessive quantity at the
market, yet as the price rose near the time of that en-
deavour, perhaps through its actual course of fluctuation,
or as before, more probably, through some conscientious
compunction of the merchants, foreseeing that their in-
terest consequent to such a trade, must, if the commodi-
ty was suffered to continue so low, be greatly effected;
but the law, I say, that was then made, gained the repu-
tation of effecting that rise. I cannot here help urging
that the remedy, to wit, lessening the quantity, was a
very atracadabia, a mere thing of charm indeed, if ever
it should produce the least good effect on any staple com-
modity depending for its consumption, really upon the
luxury of the world; for whatever the encrease of inha-
bitants who make tobacco may be in America, yet the
vast globe besides must be equal at least in the encrease of
consumers. Therefore I beg leave to say, that however
convincing it may seem to be that the carrying a small
quantity to market must raise the price, the necessity in
nature for its consumption must first be presumed, or the
consumers, through luxury, must be prevented by the
price raised to. For though luxury, when established,
may become necessary in imagination, and those habitu-
ated to it may seem miserable without enjoying it, yet
if the commodity is ever brought all to one high price,
which is certainly the intention of both the expedients for
the preventing the two causes of its low price, presumed
to wit, amending the quality or lessening the quantity;
the needy pocket, I say, in the case of tobacco in parti-
cular, cannot supply the mouth, &c. for its indulgence;
of course then, by the bye, as to both these presumed
causes, quality or quantity, this argument must forever
hold good against either of them being either the cause
of a low price, or a remedy in any effect of them for a
low price. Is it not a pity, then, that there should not
always be brains, to digest it? Consider that it is a staple
commodity, which every body must carry to market, to
be consumed by every body, and not the property of
Tom, Dick and Harry, alone, to be consumed only by
a few. But to go on, the mode proposed to lessen the
quantity was as unfortunate to the purpose intended as
the remedy in view was inadequate to the cause presumed.
It was called by some a counting law, and by others a
stint law, and except in here and there an extraordinary
soil, and some such there really was, so constantly infest-
ed by ground worms that cut off every plant nearly, till
about the hottest part of July, when it was too late to
get any crop pitched, as the last time limited by the law
for counting then expired; I say this law did not in
the least affect the quantity made, so as to lessen it, but
it rather encreased it; for although but very few knew
they did so before, yet every body became ashamed to
tend less than the law allowed, which they had constant-
ly done before the law; so indolent were they, or rather,
so inaccurate in their guessing. Besides, thousands in
the country at that time, who had never pulled off either
a horn worm or a sucker from a plant in their lives, were
then made all shewn in the crops, so that as clear as fi-
gures could prove a thing, more tobacco was exported
when the commodity rose in price than had been when it
fell, and yet this very act was applauded as the reason
for that rise. Again, after a time, tobacco fell in its
price at market, and your college gentlemen, ever active
for the public benefit, without any very sensible delibera-
tion had recourse again to the quality, and like some
apothecaries, who pound up their old and greasy galli-
pots for testatias, or other officinal medicines, for a remedy
to that low price, they dressed up the old agent’s law, un-
der the title of the inspection or tobacco law, new vampt
the oath of the arbitrary deciders on the planters pro-
perties, but left it full as convenient to be broken as the
oath of an agent was, as Hudibras very judiciously, though
humourously, hints; and therefore the taking it became a
very commodious resource for revenge, particularly in
cases of affronts, either personally or judiciary given,
and in that new dress they gave the act a ministerial
uniform; for it not only ambled, butpreambled against
the frauds committed in his majesty’s customs; and to
carry on the allegory, they laced it with the true mer-
cantile nonso pretty, and indeed perfected for the trade,
amongst many other things, that which to be sure they
wanted, but could but rarely obtain, till the act furnish-
ed with an easy list of all the tobacco that was made
in the country; from whence it may be presumed these
venerable meetings have generated to settle the prices
here to be allowed for the commodity, and some other
most beneficial purposes to the country, in which these
traders, as factors, sojourn themselves into good for-
tunes, to enable them to know how to act the part of
the merchant at home, to which they generally most
decently retire, well versed in the arts to deceive those
whom they had been decoying into a good opinion when
here. This law has indeed indisputably obliged that
part of its intention; but how the presumptive purpose
has been served, that of keeping up the price of tobacco.
I must believe the present hour has sufficiently convinced
every body. But how has the poor planter been affected
during its long continuance? Like a sick patient injured
by his doctors, I am afraid he has very little constitution
left to keep him from starving, being almost ruined by
his expence and labour in getting his commodity to the
warehouse, to be inspected before he can pay a debt, or
purchase a necessary with it, and when there, for any
wry word, or dispute, ever so collateral, in danger of
being brought into mere indigency. And though, by a
new modification, quite unknown to the constitution be-
fore the purchaser has his security by a view, to see
whether arbitrariness has done its duty in burning before
it, the planter, alas ! is without any mode of relief, even
against an enemy invested with the power of a fatal re-
venge. Clura & iniqua sors laboris indeed! Perhaps in
the first seating of a colony there might be such a col-
lection of indolence and vagrancy in the emigration as to
make it necessary, to oblige each adventurer to cultivate
such a quantity of corn for the general benefit; but
should such a law be continued in a more improved set-
tlement? If reason convinces us there can be no occasion
for it why should there be any occasion then for obliging
a man to make his other necessary produce better than
he may chuse? Reason, indeed, may tell him he may
stand a chance of a better price for it by amending it;
but I beg leave to say that reason must change sides, if
all the commodity is made equally valuable, in a staple
not necessarily consumed for the support of life; for I
think I have observed and proved that where a commo-
dity becomes too dear, the luxury or habit in using it
must die away; therefore such a reason for making it
better must produce a declension in its consumption.
Certainly the pretence of serving the trade, in purchasing
the commodity by this law, is below a serious reflection;
because the old way of every purchaser’s providing a re-
ceiver of what he buys must be a service more to be de-
pended on, and for this very reason, if no other could
be alledged, because the man employed must know, that
on the least deception or negligence, he would be re-
moved from his business, and that by the man, too, who
employs him; but as to an inspector, I ask what method,
short of a long, formal, public, and expensive, enquiry,
can remove him? And should he find an interest not to
be turned out, as his misconduct never can be but with
difficulty proved, and that but in some few instances,
what chance must the poor planter stand, who possibly
may be an evidence against him, when he must send his
commodity to be inspected by that very man, as being
very probably the most or only convenient warehouse to
him? Things which have been known to have really hap-
pened are always the basis to sound arguments. Again,
it has been asked, why patriotism has not exerted itself
in such instances of injurious inspectors? But if patriotism
cannot succeed in its exertions with legislation, of what
real consequence can it be to a community to make a
small private sacrifice only of a delinquent now and then,
could such a discovery be always and easily effected, to
compensate for a perpetual as well as general temptation
to injurious practices? Is the security of an oath now so
sacred as to be sufficient with any temporary terror against
temptations? Why was it not so in the days of their
predecessors the agents? Certainly the world is not better
acquainted with the nature of an oath now than it was
then, and I am persuaded that every experience must be
convinced, that in general an oath is not more regarded
now than it used to be. I have further heard it alledged
by some of your college, that there are so many laws so
good in themselves made since the inspection law, that
are too much connected with it to admit of a repeal of
that. Unhappy country indeed ! that can only tie their
beneficial laws to the stake of mere oppression. Pray with
what were the beneficial laws connected before the area of
the commencement of this oppressive act? It has been
also urged, that the expence which the country has put
itself to in making provisions for the execution of this law
is now too great to be laid aside. Answer this, gentle-
men, among yourselves, and explain to the world the
justice in continuing an oppression only because it has
been expensive, and I would ask the wisdom too in doing
it, when that very expence must also be continued for
the continued execution of the law?
(The remainder in our next.)
WILLIAMSBURG, APRIL 28.
The Watt, Beusher, the John, Taylor, and the ship
Norfolk, from Liverpool; the Patuxent, Lusk, from
Glasgow, and the Betsey, from Barbados, are arrived in
James River.
We are earnestly requested, by a number of our readers,
to insert the following, as by making things of this na-
ture public may be a means of preventing the horrid
practice of duelling: A few days ago a duel was fought
between Mr. H—ll and Mr. I—n, of Petersburg, occa-
sioned by Mr. I—n inviting Mr. H—ll to an entertain-
ment, in the name of a gentleman, without any autho-
rity. Mr. H—ll fired his pistol, and cut off part of
Mr. I—n’s ear; Mr. H—ll was slightly wounded in the
posteriors, as he was wheeling. What is remarkable,
Mr. I—n’s wound has occasioned a somnolency and deaf-
ness, and cannot be awaked without difficulty, and then
it is with great trepidation.
This day the general assembly of this colony met ac-
cording to adjournment; but there not being quite a suf-
ficiency of members to enter upon business, the house
adjourned till the next day, when his excellency opened
the house with the following speech:
The SPEECH of his Excellency the Right Honourable
JOHN Earl of DUNMORE, his Majesty’s Lieutenant and
Governor General of the Colony and Dominion of Virgi-
nia, and Vice Admiral of the same, to the General
Assembly, convened at the Capital, on Thursday the 5th of
May, 1774.
Gentlemen of the Council, Mr. Speaker, and gentlemen of
the House of Burgesses,
HAVING had nothing in particular charge from his
Majesty to offer to your consideration, I have con-
sulted only your own ease in the time of assembling you for
the necessary business of the colony, in which I recommend
to you to proceed with that dispatch which the public conve-
nience requires.
Mr. Speaker, and gentlemen of the House of Burgesses,
I have not, at this time, any thing to require of you; but
I hope that your resolutions on the various matters, which
shall be the subject of your deliberation, may be influenced
by prudence and moderation.
Gentlemen of the Council, Mr. Speaker, and gentlemen of
the House of Burgesses,
My ardent desire faithfully to promote the service of his
Majesty, who ever evinces the good of his people to be the
first objects of his thoughts, will make me heartily concur
with you in all measures, and assent to all such laws, as
shall be for the welfare and true interest of this country.
JOHN RANDOLPH, esquire, his majesty’s attorney ge-
neral, was this day chosen representative for William and
Mary college in general assembly.
Marriages. Mr. Isaac Quarles to Miss Southerland,
both of King William county; Mr. William Cowne to
Miss Betsey Quarles of said county; and Doctor Andrew
Anderson, of New Kent county, to Miss Betsey Burnett.
Died lately, Mr. Robert Yancey, rector of Trinity
parish, in Louisa county.
FRIDAY, May 6. This day the two following crimi-
nal received sentence of death, at the bar of the general
court, namely; Catharine Peppers, from Bedford, for
murder, and John M’Clure, from Orange county,
for horsestealing. And John Conner, from New Kent,
for manslaughter, Henry Bullard, from Isle of Wight,
for manslaughter, and Michael Wheatley, from Wil-
liamsburg, for grand larceny, were burnt in the hand.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Richmond, dated
May 5, 1774.
”This morning presented a scene inexpressibly shocking
and alarming. The fond hopes which we entertained of
a plentiful harvest, and the considerable quantity of fruit
which there was the greatest reason to expect, are now
entirely frustrated by the severity of the frost. The
peaches, apples, and cherries, are nearly quite destroyed,
and there is the most unpromising prospect with respect
to the wheat. Almost all kinds of vegetables are greatly
affected. In short, I do not remember ever to have seen
so deplorable a devastation.”
By a gentleman from Loudoun county, whom we can
safely rely on, we are informed, that on Tuesday even-
ing, and Wednesday morning, the frost was so very
severe, that the fruit there has shared the same fate, the
tobacco and wheat are much hurt, and that the corn,
potatoes, &c. are killed as far as the ground. This gen-
tleman adds, that when he left the blue ridge of moun-
tains they were covered with snow.
We learn also, that at King William it snowed very
smartly, and that the adjacent parts have suffered con-
siderably by the frost.
Accounts from Surry, Sussex, and many other places,
inform us of the like dreadful effects by the frost. Indeed,
we have suffered very considerably in this city, and in
the country for ten or twelve miles round.
On Thursday the 8th of April, Joseph Bryan, who was
employed as the constitutional post rider from Philadel-
phia to Baltimore, and was entrusted with 558 dollars in
a bag, directed to Mr. William Lux, at Baltimore, rode
off with the cash, and has never been heard of since.
HOB’s address to the mathematicians of William and
Mary college is this moment received, and will be insert-
ed in our next, if, upon perusing it, we find it merits a
place in this paper.
MRS. RIND,
HAD the correspondent, who stiles himself a friend
to truth, been really such, and not actuated by
secret malice, he hardly would have envied me the vindi-
cation of my character in your paper, from some odium,
I thought, might remain on me in the opinion of such as
should hear of the accusation, without knowing the cir-
cumstances, the avowed and real design of it, and not to
fix blame on the magistrate: But to shew his malevolence,
I call upon him to come from behind the curtain, and
prove his assertions that I was of suspicious character,
that I was not acquitted by the unanimous opinion of
the court, as they delivered them, that I had been ad-
vised my brother had no right to the negro, thought it
felony at the time of taking, and assisted him with a horse
and boy to carry her away; all of which I affirm, and
can prove, to be contrary to truth. I confess I was by
the court, on the day of examination, bound to my good
behaviour, upon a misrepresentation of my being con-
cerned in a fray that day (wholly unconnected with the
trial) at which I was only present. However, to this I
submitted, without murmuring, as I could readily give
security, and thought it no hardship to be obliged to
behave well. I hope this unknown scribbler will not
prevent my still passing upon all for an honest, as I am
now doubly an injured man. I am, Madam, your hum-
ble servant, MOORE BRAGG.
For SALE,
THE improved SQUARE of LOTS
adjoining the lots belonging to Mr.
E. DEANE, coachmaker in Palace street,
Williamsburg. JOHN TAZEWELL,
esquire, of this city, is empowered to sell.
If the purchaser, or purchasers, do not
pay ready money, his bond, with approved
securities, made payable to ROBERT CAR-
TER, will be satisfactory. tf
Just imported, and to be sold by the subscriber,
ON VERY RASONABLE TERMS,
A GENTEEL assortment of MILLINERY, in the
newest taste. Mecklin, Brussells, and minionet lace,
blond ditto, a variety of white and coloured silks, plain,
striped, and sprigged muflins, jewellery, childbed linen,
robes, ladies and gentlemens silk and cotton hose, Dids-
bury’s shoes, Gresham’s sattin and calimanco ditto, ladies
black and white riding hats, and many other articles.
WILLIAMSBURG,
May 4, 1774. J. CHARLTON.
FOR CHARTER,
THE ship Caesar, William Wetherald, master, bur-
then about 450 hogsheads of tobacco, now lies at
Norfolk, and has made but one voyage. Apply to said
master. tf GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
*** On board of said ship is a quantity of Whitehaven
COAL, of the best quality, which will be sold very
cheap. Apply to Mr. Joseph Kidd, in Williamsburg.
THE subscriber, in Gloucester, has for sale, a few
hogsheads of good OLD RUM; also a few pipes
and hogsheads of OLD MADEIRA WINE, of the
London and New York quality.
2 JOHN SEAWELL.
To the CLERGY of VIRGINIA.
REVEREND SIRS,
THINKING this a very proper season for taking
into consideration certain matters in which the
clergy are most immediately and deeply concerned, and
finding several of my brethren, whose opinions have
great weight with me, to be very confident, that if our
whole body should be desired to meet, they would not
at tis time shew a general backwardness to honour the
request, I have come to a resolution of appointing, and
do accordingly appoint, the Thursday after Whitsunday
for the clergy to convene upon at the college of William
and Mary. When the day appointed comes, I hope
those who advised me to this measure will with me enjoy
the satisfaction of finding their expectations fully an-
swered by being able to assemble with a very respectable
number of their fraternity on an occasion which they as
well as I deem important. I am, with ardent prayers
for your real welfare, and the good of the community,
reverend gentlemen, your loving and affectionate bro-
ther, JOHN CAMM.
COLLEGE, May 5, 1774.
Just imported from LONDON, and sold by the
subscriber, at her store opposite the Raleigh
in Williamsburg,
A WELL chosen assortment of the neatest GOODS,
consisting of fine thread and blond lace, white
sattin and lustring, blue sattin and sarsnet petticoats,
white ditto for weddings, sattin and queen silk shoes,
muslin, gauze, catgut, and wire, worked linen, ribbands,
plain and ribbed, silk, cotton, and threat stockings, small
ditto for children, patent net aprons, equal in beauty to
joining lace, silk gloves and mits, roles and curls, tam-
bour sword knots, boys beaver and hussar caps, ladies
riding hats, feathers, and whips, childrens sashes and
stays, a large quantity of Didsbury shoes, sheneel, fine
chip and cane hats, fans, cloaks, gauze handkerchiefs,
purses, bags and puffs, purl for work, tureen, pump,
and pap ladles, stone silver, gilt, and pinchbeck, both
shoe and knee buckles, paste, garnet, gold, and black,
stock ditto, India plate salts, ditto snuffers and snuffpans,
silver teaspoons, teatongs, and saltshovels, ditto coral
and bells, paste, marcasite, pearl, and bead, necklaces
and earrings, gold wires, silver bowed seissars, and silver
tipped sheaths, lancet cafes, watch chains and keys,
combs, pocketbooks, and etwee cases, freemason and
other broaches, paste sprigs and pins, tooth brushes, fine
Irish wafers, sword canes, and penknives, black bags
and roses, black pins, stay hooks, thimbles, silver shoe
clasps, fruit knives, dolls and other toys, with many
other articles too numerous to insert; all to be sold on
reasonable terms, for ready money only, by
C. Rathell.
*** At the same place may be had an exceeding fine
SILVER WATCH, capped, which runs on diamonds,
and a GOLD WATCH, with gold hands, and an en-
graved case.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at Henrico court-
house, in Richmond, on Monday the 6th of June,
THE TENEMENT lately occupied by Mr. James
Buchanan, on part of which Byrd’s warehouses
now stand. It may, with convenience, be divided into
three separate tenements, one of which will include a
very good dwellinghouse, kitchen, smokehouse, dairy,
and a garden under good paling. The second will in-
clude a very good brick store, a large commodious lum-
berhouse, and the reversion of Byrd’s warehouses. The
third joins the lands of Colonel Thomas Turpin, where-
on are the houses now in the tenancy of Mess. Trents and
Mr. Powell. There is a good stable on this lot, and a
large new house that may, at a small expence, be con-
verted into a dwellinghouse, or store. The situation of
these lots, and convenience of the houses, will sufficiently
recommend them to those who view them. They will
be sold althogether or separately, which ever shall appear
most adviseable. Half of the money to be paid at or
before the meeting in November next, and the remainder
by the first of May, 1775. The bonds to bear interest
from the date, unless the agents of Mess. James and
Robert Donald, and company, should agree upon other
terms on the day of sale. Any person inclining to pur-
chase may be shown the premises, and know the terms at
large, by applying to Mr. James Buchanan.
2 JAMES MILLER.
*** All those indebted to the said Mess. James and
Robert Donald, and company, for dealings with Mr.
James Buchanan at thier stores in Richmond, Albermarle,
and Amherst, are once more requested to make speedy
payment; and as many accounts are yet standing open,
particularly at their store in Richmond, those concerned
are desired to close the same, immediately, otherwise
longer indulgence cannot be given.
THE subscriber intending to settle over the moun-
tains makes him offer his lands in Amelia for sale.
There are near 800 acres (a little more than 100 of
which are subject to a widow’s dower) with a very good
dwellinghouse, and all necessary houses, lately repaired,
with an extraordinary fine apple and peach orchard of
the best kind of fruit; cherries of all sorts. There are
near 100 acres of low ground very suitable for a meadow,
on which is a great abundance of fine timber. The
purchaser may know the terms by applying to Joseph
Eggleston, in Amelia, adjoining the said land, Richard
Eggleston, in Cumberland county, or the subscriber, in
the county of Frederick. WILLIAM EGGLESTON.
FOR SALE
TWO thousand acres of exceeding fine LAND for
tobacco, wheat, or Indian corn, lying on both
sides of Bull Run, in Loudoun and Prince William;
about 300 acres of it are rich low ground and meadow land.
It lies within 4 miles of two merchant mills, and about
10 miles of two other merchant mills in Loudoun, 30
miles form Colchester, Alexandria, and Dumfries. If
any person or persons incline to purchase the whole
or any part of the said lands, they may be shewn them,
and know the terms, by applying to Capt. Francis Pey-
ton in Loudoun county, who has full power to treat for
the same, or to the subscriber. It may be laid off in lots
of two, three, or four hundred acres (as may best suit
the purchasers) with an equal quantity of low ground
and meadow land to each lot. ROBERT BURWELL.
THE treasurer, trustees, and subscribers, to the fund
for the relief of the widows and orphans of clergy-
men, collected last Sunday from the two audiences
25£. 14 s. 5d. for which they beg leave to return their
thanks to the generous contributors. On the day fol-
lowing they ordered 80£. to be distributed among six wi-
dows, and the orphans of four clergymen, and appointed
officers for the ensuing year, namely, the reverend Mess.
John Camm, treasurer, Prince Davis, Devereaux Jarratt,
William Eland, John Bracken, Thomas Price, and
Thomas Lundie, trustees; William Harrison morning,
and Robert Andrews evening preacher.
The clergy have a most grateful sense of the presents
of 20£. and 3£. 2s. 6d. from two unknown persons, by the
hands of the reverend Mr. Henley. This acknowledg-
ment would have been made last year had not the said
charitable contributions come some days too late to be
inserted in our last year’s advertisement.
To be SOLD, on the first Thursday in June, at Glou-
cester courthouse,
A TRACT of fine land, lying on Guyown’s Island,
containing about 420 acres. Twelve months credit
will be allowed, the purchaser giving bond, and good
security, to 1 THOMAS NELSON, jun.
To be SOLD, on the premises, on the third Thursday
in June, next,
THE very profitable ORDINARY, belonging to the< br>subscriber, at King William courthouse, with 600
acres of very valuable LAND adjoining to it. The place
is so well known that it is unnecessary to describe it, or
to point out the advantage of its situation, which is so
central that it is daily resorted by travellers from all
parts; so that it has constant custom. The ordinary,
and some small tenements on the land, have rented for
170£. a year, and are now well worth 200£. a year, or
more. The purchaser may have possession the first day
of November next, and is to pay one fifth of the pur-
chase money that day, and one other fifth annually after,
until the whole is satisfied. Bond, with good security,
for the payment thereof, must be given to the subscriber,
who will treat privately with any person inclined to pur-
chase before the day of sale. JOHN QUARLES.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox 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 wea-
ther, 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous to the owner. Also another tract of land of 126
acres, in Albermarle 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.
To be SOLD, on the premises, to the highest bidder,
on Monday the 25th of July, pursuant to the will of
William Anderson, deceased,
A TRACT of LAND containing 394 acres, on
Blackwater Swamp, in Surry, within 8 or 9 miles
of Cabin Point. The land is of a very good quality,
and well timbered. There are no improvements, and
not above two or three acres cultivated. One third of
the purchase money to be paid on the day of sale, and
twelve months credit will be allowed for the other two
thirds, on giving bond, with approved security, to
2 The ADMINISTRATORS.
FAIRFAX county, MAY 1, 1774.
RUN away from the subscriber, on the 24th of April,
at night, a convict servant man named WILLIAM
WEBSTER, a brickmaker by trade, about 5 feet 7 or 8
inches high, and well made, with short light brown hair,
and sandy coloured beard, rather thin; he is a Scotch-
man, and talks pretty broad; had on, and took with
him, sundry cloaths, among which were a frock coat and
breeches, of a yellowish or olive colour, without lining,
and almost new, with black horn buttons, a waistcoat of
white cotton, with black horn buttons, good shoes and
stockings, &c. Whoever takes up, and conveys the said
servant to the subscriber, shall receive FIVE POUNDS
if at the distance of fifty miles, and in proportion if it
is more of less, and reasonable charges borne. And as
it is highly probably he may attempt to get on board
some vessel, all masters and skippers are hereby cautioned
thereof. I GEORGE WASHINGTON.
FINCASTLE county, to wit,
GEORGE the third, by the grace of God, of Great
Britain, France, and Ireland, king, defender of
the faith, &c. To the sheriff of Fincastle county, greet-
ing: We command you that you summon Francis Wil-
ley, an infant under the age of twenty one years, son
and heir to James Willey deceased, to appear before our
justices of our court of our said county, at the courthouse,
on the first Tuesday in next month, to answer a bill in
chancery, exhibited against him by William Calhoon;
and this he shall in no wise omit, under the penalty of
100£. and have then there this writ. Witness John Byrd,
clerk of our said court, this 9th day of June, in the 13th
year of our reign. * JOHN BYRD.
CAROLINE county, April 30, 1774.
AS I intend soon to remove to North Carolina, I
shall be glad that every person who thinks he has
a claim against me would make it known. Those that
are indebted to me, by account, are desired to settle the
same. Mr. John Taylor, of this county, will finish the
suits I am engaged in; and any payments made to him
for me will be allowed.
2 JOHN PENN.
RUN away on the 20th of April last, from the sloop
FRIENDSHIP, William Johnston Rysam, master,
lying at York town, MINGO, a stout well made black
negro fellow, of a down cast look, limps on one side,
Virginia born, and about 35 years old, has been used to
plantation work and going by water. Whoever will deliver
him to William Reynolds, esquire, at York, John Perrin,
esquire, of Gloucester, or the subscriber, at Norfolk,
shall have THIRTY SHILLINGS reward, besides what
the law allows. 3 MATTHEW PHRIPP.
RUN away from the subscriber, on the 1st instant
(May) a servant man named JOHN MASON, of a
dark complexion, short dark hair, about 5 feet 10 inches
high, has lately had a cut over one of his eyes, supposed
to be the left, and is by trade a perukemaker; had on a
dark blue coat, striped waistcoat, white breeches, and
pale blue stockings. Whoever secures the said servant,
so that I get him again, shall receive 40s. and if delivered
to me, in Norfolk, 3£. DAVID REYNOLDS.
TAKEN up in Fincastle, a black mare, about seven
years old, branded on the near shoulder A, with
4 white feet, and a blaze in her face, paces, is hipshot,
and about 13 hands 3 inches high. Posted and ap-
praised to 7£. JAMES DAVIS.
TAKEN up, in Fincastle, a sorrel horse, 4 years old,
13 hands and an inch high, with a white mane and
tail, his fore legs from the knees down almost white, and
the hoofs of his fore feet twist inwards, has a star in his
forehead, a small snip on his nose, branded on the near
jaw T, and has a bell on, with a leather collar and dou-
ble buckle. Posted, and appraised to 4£. 5s.
* THOMAS MONTGOMERY.
TAKEN up in Lunenburg, a bay horse, about 9
years old, branded on the near buttock SH, and
about 4 feet 10 inches high. Posted, and appraised to
12£. + BENJAMIN CLARKE.
TAKEN up in Lunenburg, a small roan sorrel
mare, about 4 feet 1 inch high, branded on the
near shoulder and buttock D, has a large blaze in her
face, her two hind feet white up to her hams, appears
to be about 10 or 12 years old, with a hanging mane
and switch tail. Posted, and appraised to 3£. 10s.
+ NICHOLAS HOBSON.
THE printer hereof having lately considerably en-
larged her paper, and expecting shortly an elegant
set of types from London, of a much smaller size than
those used at present, together with all other materials
relative to the printing business, and being extremely
desirous of supporting the dignity of her gazette, and
keeping it at a fixed standard, earnestly requests, that in
order to maintain it on this footing, those who may please
to favour her with their commands will be punctual in
their payments, either to send cash, or settle at the next
general court after she receives their orders. Pay for
the paper she by no means requires at the above stated
periods; to remit that yearly will be sufficient, at which
time she hopes none of her subscribers will neglect her.
But advertisements, blanks, and many other kinds of
printing work, she ardently hopes, may be discharged
at the general courts, which will enable her the better
to carry on her paper with that spirit which is so ne-
cessary to such an undertaking. To those who have
hitherto obliged me with their custom I return my most
grateful thanks; as a recompence, it shall ever be parti-
cularly my care to give satisfaction, should the public
business be continued with me, whereby I may make a
tolerable provision for myself and children. I am the
public’s most obliged and very humble servant,
CLEMENTINA RIND.
TREASURY OFFICE, April 26, 1774.
IT having been represented to me that doubts are en-
tertained in several parts of the country of the
goodness of some of the treasury notes of the last emissi-
on, because there are found double numbers of some of
the bills, I think it necessary to inform the public that
the upper number of each bill only denotes the number
of the book out of which it was taken, and that the
lower number shews the series of the bill; both of which
are of singular use to the treasury, where the original
books, with their counter checks, are carefully preserved.
The paper on which the money was impressed consisted
of single slips, each containing two bills. Fifty of these
slips were bound in separate books, which were numbered
from book 1 to 78 inclusive; so that of the notes in cir-
culation there may be found one hundred, whose upper
numbers are the same, though the lower numbers are
all different. The manner in which it was proposed to
fill up these bills was explainend and universally approved
at the last session of assembly, and I did not suppose the
smallest doubts could arrive in any part of the country.
I have endeavoured to trace every report that has been
circulated to the prejudice of the new money, and can
truely declare that I have not the least reason to suspect
that any of it has been counterfeited. I will not pre-
sume to say it is impossible to be done, but am hopeful
that the great difficulties which must attend it have dis-
couraged even an attempt. These bills, however, will
be very speedily called in; and I am persuaded that all
doubts and scruples will be effectually removed.
2 RO. C. NICHOLAS, Treasurer.
THIS DAY WAS PUBLISHED,
A CANDID refutation of the heresy imputed by
Ro. C. Nicholas, esquire, to the reverend S. Hen-
ley. SOLD at both printing offices. Price 2s. 6d.
WHEREAS Mr. Kemp Plummer, and Mr. William
Plummer, junior, have conveyed away ten NE-
GROES, belonging to the estate of major Kemp Plum-
mer, deceased, consisting of men, women, and children,
which said negroes they have no right to, this is to
forewarn the public from purchasing any of them.
3 GEORGE W. PLUMMER, executor.
FOR SALE,
A VALUABLE tract of land, lying in the lower end
of Amherst county, on James River, containing
upwards of 1000 acres, nearly adjoining the lands of
Doctor William Cabell, running near three miles on
the river, with an island adjacent, containing between
30 and 40 acres, to be sold with or without the said
tract. There is a plantation hereon in good order for
cropping, and sufficient for 10 or 12 hands; also a white
shad fishery, and a remarkable natural fishpond, with a
plenty of limestone for building. Any person in-
clinable to purchase may know the terms by applying to
the subscriber, in Henrico, who is one of the trustees of
Mr. John Howard. 3 THOMAS PROSSER.
To be SOLD, by the subscriber, at Stafford courthouse,
on the 2d Monday in June next, if fair, otherwise the
first fair day,
THREE tracts of land, adjoining each other, and
lying in Stafford county, on Potowmack creek;
on one of which is a very commodious tavern, and other
necessary houses, garden, &c. within a few yards of the
courthouse. The situation is very advantageous for a
publican’s business, and remarkable for fish and fowl.
Fifteen acres of the land were laid down in timothy about
four years ago, and there are near 40 acres of marsh,
which might be easily reclaimed, and at a small expence.
Terms will be made known on the day of sale.
5 GEORGE DENT, junior.
FOR sale, by the subscriber in Hanover town, at a
low advance, for ready money, or on short credit,
GERMAN OZNABRIGS, ROLLS and several bales
of RUSSIA DRILLING. 3 THOMAS SIMPSON.
TAKEN up, in King and Queen county, a sorrel
horse, about 4 feet 7 inches high, appears to be
about 5 years old, has a snip on his nose, no brand per-
ceivable, trots and gallops, and appraised to 12£.
* MARY ANDERSON.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 26, 1774.
THE subscriber being under a necessity of returning
to England the ensuing summer, will sell off his
remaining STOCK of GOODS at a low advance to a
wholesale purchaser; and desires all persons indebted to
him to pay off their respective balances immediately, that
his affairs may be properly adjusted before his departure.
3* GEORGE PITT.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Sussex, the 16th
of February last, a negro man named JAMES,
about 22 years of age, of a yellowish complexion, 5 feet
2 or 3 inches high; had on, and took with him, a old
hat, a fearnought jacket of a purple colour, a mixed
yarn jacket without sleeves, and something longer than
the other, a striped Virginia cloth shirt, with six white
ones, and two of blue, negro cotton breeches, with a
green streak across the fore parts, a pair of old shoes,
and negro cotton boots. Any person that will bring the
said slave to the subscriber shall have five pounds, if
taken out of the colony, and forty shillings if taken in
Virginia. 3 THOMAS HUSON.
COMMITTED to the gaol of Charles City, on
Saturday the 16th instant (April) a lusty negro
woman, who says her name is Peggy Wilson, 5 feet 7
inches high, formerly belonged to one Richard Hunt, on
Roanoke, by him sold to David Taylor, of York county,
and purchased of said Taylor by one Peyton, for the
use of Mr. John Tabb, in Amelia. The owner is desired
to pay charges, and take her away.
3 STITH GREGORY, gaoler.
TAKEN up, in Cumberland, near the lower bridge,
on Williss’s creek, a bright bay mare, about 4 feet
6 inches high, supposed to be 3 or 4 years old, not dock-
ed, both hind feet white, has a few white hairs in her
forehead, and branded : on the near buttock. Posted
and appraised to 9£. * DRURY WOODSON.
FOR SALE,
A VALUABLE tract of LAND in Kingston parish,
Gloucester county, containing 500 acres, lying on
a large creek which makes out of East river, a fine place
for fish and oysters; there is land cleared sufficient for six
hands, an overseer’s house and other out buildings; the
uncleared land abounds with a great quantity of white
oak and pine timber, the timber supposed, by good
judges, to be worth 1000£.
* 3 WILLIAM PLUMMER.
WILLIAMSBURG,April 20, 1774.
BY order of his Excellency in council, I hearby give
notice to all concerned, that those officers and soldiers
who served in the late war as RANGERS, or as part
of the militia, will not, as such, be allowed, in future,
any land under his Majesty’s proclamation in OCTOBER
1763; but those only who were either in the regular
service, or else in some provincial regiment.
JOHN BLAIR, Cl. Con.
TREASURY OFFICE, April 10, 1774.
THE several Inspectors, and all other
Persons whatever, who are in Arrear
to the Treasury, are desired to discharge
their respective Balances in the Course of
this present Court, without fail, as no In-
dulgencies can be given.
RO. C. Nicholas, Treasurer.
NOW at my house, in YORK, a tall, slim, young
negro fellow, who says his name is CHARLES,
and that he belongs to William Franklin. The owner
is desired to take him away, and pay the expence of this
advertisement.
3 CORBIN GRIFFIN.
HANOVER, March24, 1774.
I SOME time ago purchased a tract of land, in Spot-
syvania county, of one Joseph Herndon, and have
paid him all the consideration money except 100£. which
becomes due in April next, for which said Herndon has
has my bond, with Mr. Garret Minor security; these are
therefore to forewarn any person from taking an assign-
ment of said bond, as I am assured he cannot make me
a good title to the land. 3 AARON FOUNTANE.
FOR SALE,
And to be ENTERED upon at CHRISTMAS next,
A VERY valuable tract of LAND in King William
county, on Pamunkey river, adjoining the land of
the late Mr. John Smith, of Hanover county, deceased,
containing 800 acres, more or less, the soil is very rich
and exceedingly well adapted for wheat, corn or tobacco,
particularly the first and second, being low grounds;
and there is a considerable quantity of high grounds.
It has plenty of good pine and oak timber upon it, con-
venient houses, and is in good order for cropping, is
about two miles from Hanover town, and very convenient
to church and two mills. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may be shewn the land by applying to Mr. Christo-
pher Taliaferro, or Mr. William Jones, who resides near
the same, and the terms may be also known by applying
to these gentlemen, or to the subscriber.
tf THOMAS JONES.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at Goochland court-
house, on Monday the 20th of June, being court day,
A TRACT of rich, well timbered LAND, lying
opposite to Elk Island, in Goochland county, be-
longing to the estate of Mr. John Smith, deceased, con-
taining 2000 acres, which will be put up in four separate
lots. Likewise a tract containing between 3 and 400
acres, lying on both sides of the Little Bird creek, near
the head thereof, in the aforesaid county. Those lands
having been fully described in a former advertisement
renders it unnecessary here. The time of payment will
be made known on the day of sale, and bonds, with good
security, required of the purchasers.
9 WILLIAM ANDERSON, executor.
*** The purchasers at the different sales of the negroes
and personal estate of Joseph and John Smith, deceased,
are desired to take notice, that their bonds will in a very
short time become payable, and that no indulgence can
or will be allowed to any person. I shall constantly at-
tend at the county courts of Henrico and Hanover, and
the meeting of merchants in Williamsburg, in order to
receive payment. Those who have open accounts on
the books of John Smith, deceased, are once more re-
quested to come and settle.
FOR SALE, and to be seen in Williamsburg, from
the first of May and for some time after, the high
blooded horse MASTER STEPHEN; he is young,
strong, and large, has a good bottom, and runs fast.
Whoever may be inclinable to know his pedigree, or to
see him, may be satisfied by applying to Philip. L. Lee
at his house in Williamsburg. 3
RUN away from the subscriber, near the south branch
of Meherrin river, in Mecklenburg, on Christmas
day last, a large negro man named BOB, Virginia born,
is very sensible, about 5 feet 9 inches high, 26 years old,
has bad teeth, and a small mark on his upper lip, his
forehead, which is fleshy, bears much over his eyes, and
makes a dent in his nose, joining his forehead, had, when
he went way, a large head of hair, combed up high
before, and part of his hair grew from his ears down his
face to his neck, has a strong, hoarse voice, is a little
bow legged, and his feet are large; he had good cloaths,
which I expect he will change. I imagine he will en-
deavour to pass for a free man, and procure a pass.
He can make shoes, and play on the fiddle, and is fond
of singing with it. He took with him a sorrel mare,
which I suppose he would part with. All owners or
masters of vessels are forewarned from taking him on
board. I will give TEN POUNDS to any one that will
deliver him to me.
3* RICHARD WITTON.
RUN away, or stolen, from the subscriber, in Pitt-
sylvania county, about the last day of February past,
a negro man named GUY, has been in the country
about two years, speaks very broken, is about five feet
ten or eleven inches high, had on a Monmouth cap, a
pair of country made shoes, and yarn hose, old shirt,
jacket, and breeches, and has a scar on his breast; he
makes use of tobacco in the snuffing way. Any person
that will bring the said slave to me, or to Daniel Han-
kins, in the county aforesaid, shall receive FIVE
POUNDS, besides what the law allows.
3* JOHN SALMON.
TAKEN up, in Gloucester county, a brindle steer,
near three years old, marked with a swallowfork
in the right ear, and a crop in the left. Posted, and
appraised to 1£. 10s. * JOHN FOX.
TAKEN up, on Dan river, in Halifax county, a
small black horse, six or seven years old, with a
small star in his forehead, roached main, branded on the
off buttock O, about four feet six inches high, and is
appraised to 7£.
* JOHN ARMSTRONG.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, on Nottaway river, a
sorrel horse, 4 feet 3 inches high 5 years old,
and branded on the near buttock [=. Posted, and apprais-
ed to 4£. 10s. * THOMAS CHAMBERS.
TAKEN up, in Mecklenburg, a small bay mare,
well made, with a star in her forehead, some
saddle spots, branded on the off bottock V, part of her
mane roached, and part hanging to the off side; she has
a long sprig tail, and is about sixteen years old. Posted,
and appraised to 2£. 10s. * JOHN TABB.
TAKEN up, on Island Creek, in Bedford, a blue
roan horse colt, about 2 years old, 4 feet 2 inch-
es high, but neither docked nor branded. Posted, and
appraised to 2£. 10 s.
* WILLIAM HANDY.
TAKEN up, on Island Creek, in Bedford, a bright
bay horse colt, about 3 years old, 4 feet 3 inches
high, one hind foot white, but neither docked nor
branded. Posted, and appraised to 3£.
* WILLIAM HANDY.
TAKEN up, on Island Creek, in Bedford, a smal
black mare, about 5 years old, 4 feet 5 inches
high, with a large star in her forehead, her near hind
foot white, and docked and branded on the near buttock
F. Posted, and appraised to 6£.
* WILLIAM HANDY.<//p>
The noted HORSE
MARK ANTHONY
WILL stand this SEASON at my plantation, on the
north side of Roanoke river, about 15 miles above
Halifax town, and will cover at three pounds for the season,
thirty shillings the leap, or five pounds to ensure. I
shall take all possible care to any mares that may be left
with me; but will not be liable for any that may get
away. 3* EATON HAYNES.
The noted swift HORSE
TRISTRAM SHANDY,
(now, perhaps, the fattest horse in VIRGINIA)
STANDS at my house, in the lower end of Caroline
county, and covers mares this season at 2£. 10s.
good pasturage, gratis, and great care taken of the mares,
but will not be answerable for any that may get away.
TRISTRAM SHANDY was got by Morton’s Traveller,
his dam by Janus, out a very fine English mare.
5 JAMES UPSHAW.
PLANK and SCANTLING
TO be sold by the subscriber, at his sawmill, near
Aylett’s warehouse, on Mattapony river, upon the
most reasonable terms, and of the following kinds, viz.
white oak, black walnut, sweet gum, ash, poplar, birch
(which makes elegant furniture) best yellow heart pine
for flooring (and clear of heart and sap, if required)
common high land, and slash ditto, for other uses. A
reasonable credit will be allowed, or European or West
India goods received in payment. I shall prepare several
sets of plank and scantling for erecting Hobday’s wheat
machines, which, or any other kind of plank or scant-
ling, I can send to Norfolk, or to any part of York river.
Orders, which may come by the post to the postoffice at
Aylett’s, will be duly complied with. I have also for
sale a quantity of excellent MADEIRA WINE, of the
London and New York qualities, in hogsheads and
quarter casks, on twelve months credit, and will receive
corn or wheat in payment.
tf WILLIAM AYLETT.
To be SOLD, together or in parcels,
THAT fertile and well timbered tract of LAND,
in Princess Anne county, known by the name
of GIBBS’S WOODS, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stands seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Persons inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy, in
Williamsburg, who will give any undoubted title. tf
WILLIAMSBURG, March 1, 1774.
THE several sheriffs in arrear for his Majesty’s
quitrents are requested to make full payment at the
ensuing April court; and as it is my duty to enforce a
speedy collection of this revenue, it is hoped that those
against whom judgments have been already obtained will
attend to this notice.
RICHARD CORBIN, D. R. G.
KING HEROD
STANDS at Rosegill, and will cover mares at FOUR
POUNDS the season. Those who send mares must
send the money, otherwise they shall not be left. The
valuable qualities, and the pedigree, of this horse, are
sufficiently notorious.
RALPH WARMELEY, junior.
GODOLPHIN,
A FULL blooded horse, by FRARNOUGHT, out of
an imported mare, will stand this season at Mr.
Richard Taylor’s, near Petersburg, to cover mares, at
TWENTY SHILLINGS the leap, or THREE
POUNDS the season, payable in October next. Those
gentlemen who are inclined to send mares may be assured
that the greatest care will be taken of them; but I will
not be answerable for any that shall get away.
GEORGE BAYLOR.
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately
A TRACT of LAND containing 1300 acres, more
or less, on Pianketank river, in Gloucester county.
It is needless to be particular about it as it is the same I
advertised last year and then gave a full account of it,
since then I sold it to John Attway Clarke, of Maryland,
but as he refuses to take it, necessity obliges me once more
to offer it to the public. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may know the terms by applying to me in Mid-
dlesex. I want part of the money at the meeting of the
merchants, and for the remainder I will give reasonable
credit. tf AUGUSTINE SMITH.
ESSEX county, April 2, 1774.
IN consequence of the death of Mr. James Campbell of
Essex, who was acting attorney for Messieurs John,
William, and James M’Call M’Call and Elliott, and,
M’Call, Elliott, and Snodgrass, in the business formerly
under the management of Mr. William Snodgrass, we
have received from his executors the books and papers of
said companies, and have put them into the hands of Mr.
James Gordon to collect. We therefore earnestly request
all indebted to those concerns to pay off immediately, as
no further indulgence can be given. Mr. James Gordon
will reside in Tappahannock, and will attend Essex,
Middlesex,, and Gloucester, and King and Queen courts.
ARCHIBALD M’CALL
JOHN SNODGRASS.
For WHITEHAVEN,
THE ship OLIVE, Captain William Barrass, lies
at Broadways, on Appomattox, will sail early in
April, having three fourths of her cargo engaged, can
take in about one hundred hogsheads of tobacco, on
liberty of consignment. For terms apply to Mr. Bolling
Starke, in Petersburg, or us at Norfolk.
GREENWOOD, RITSON, AND MARSH.
RUN away, from Neabsco furnace, the 16th of
March, a light coloured mulatto man named
BILLY or WILL, the property of the honourable
John Tayloe, esquire. When I tell the public that he
is the same boy who for many years used to wait on me,
in my travels through this and the neighbouring pro-
vince, and by his pertness, or rather impudence, was
well known to all my acquaintances, there is the less
occasion for a particular description of him. However,
as he is now grown to the size of a man, and has not at-
tended me for some time past, I think it not amiss to say
that he is a very likely young fellow about 20 years
old, 5 feet 9 inches high, stout and strong made, has a
remarkable swing in his walk, but is much more so by a
surprizing knack he has of gaining the good graces of
almost every body who will listen to his bewitching and
deceitful tongue, which seldom or ever speaks the truth.
He has a small scar on the right side of his forehead, and
the little finger of his right hand is quite straight by a
hurt he got when a child. Had on, when he went away,
a blue fearnought jacket, and an under one of green
baize, cotton breeches, oznabrig shirt, mixed blue sale
stockings, country made shoes, and yellow buckles.
From his ingenuity, he is capable of doing almost any
sort of business, and for some years past, has been chiefly
employed as a founder, a stone mason, and a miller, as
occasion required; one of which trades, I imagine, he
will, in the character of a free man, profess. I have
some reason to suspect his travelling towards James river,
under the pretence of being sent by me on business.
Whoever apprehends the said fellow, and brings him to
me, or to his master, the honourable John Tayloe, at
Mountairy, or secure him so as to be had again, shall
have treble what the law allows, and all reasonable
charges paid. tf THOMAS LAWSON.
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.
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 bult, with a
stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILL-
STONES, which mill has for two years past got up-
wards 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 the 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 wil be
allowed fo ready money, or good merchants notes. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probable we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
FOR SALE,
SEVERAL valuable tracts of LAND, adjoining each
other, or both sides of Chappawamsick Run, in the
counties of Stafford and Prince William, containing 2600
acres, being the seat whereon the subscriber formerly re-
sided. These lands are situate four miles above Aquia
warehouses, and four miles below the town of Dumfries,
the soil of more than half of it exceeding good; there is
on it as fine a mill seat as any in the colony, upon a large
and never failing stream. There is a great appearance
of iron ore, and a large quantity of white oak and pine
timber, a tolerable commodious dwellinghouse, a great
number of convenient outhouses, good orchards, and
several tenements in order for cropping. There are also
200 acres of fine meadow ground, half of which was
sowed in timothy last fall and this spring. A more par-
ticular description will be unnecessary, as it is presumed
than any person inclinable to purchase will view the pre-
mises; and the subscriber earnestly entreats all such to
form their ideas of the value of this estate from their own
observations, and not from any accounts they may receive
from others, as there are some persons, who are thought
good natured, worthy men, amuse themselves with de-
crying the property of their neighbours, even at the
expence of truth, and under the mask of friendship to
the person injured. And the subscriber is more parti-
cular in this caution, as he hath formerly received several
severe injuries of that kind from one in that neighbour-
hood. The above lands are under the incumbrance of
two mortgages; the one for a considerable sum, made
by the subscriber himself, the other for an inconsiderable
sum, made by the person of whom he purchased one of
the small tracts, which mortgages are to be first paid out
of the money arising from the sale. For terms apply to
THOMSON MASON.
FOR SALE,
THE public STOREHOUSE in that part of the town
of Richmond called Shockoes, rented at fifteen
pounds a year; the two half acre lots, No. 400 and
No. 670, in the same town; the valuable lot of one hun-
dred acres of timbered land, near the same, known by the
description of No. 799; also the two half acre lots, No.
116 and No. 267, inthe town of Manchester or Rocky
Ridge, on the fourth side of the falls of James river. For
terms apply to Joshua Storrs of Richmond, or to the sub-
scriber. THOMSON MASON.
Thursday, May 12, 1774 THE Number 41.8
VIRGINIA GAZETTE
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3s. the first Week ,
and 2s. each Time after: long ones in Proportion. ————PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
CONCLUSION of the ADDRESS to the POLITICAL
COLLEGE.
I AM aware of an argument, a best only collected
from our neighbouring province; and I think I have
digested it so as really to stifle it in every modest
man’s opinion. It is advanced that Maryland, for
a great while, would not come into any inspecting
law. So far I say they were wise. But that finding the
low price of the Virginia tobacco rising, by means of
their inspecting law, they agreed to enact one themselves.
Let any body consider what has been before advanced,
and say whether it was not a wrong conclusion, both
in Virginia and Maryland, that any rise in tobacco
ought, or could, be imputed to such a cause. If it
was the real cause, what has produced the present very
low price in Virginia, when the very inspection law is
still, and has been so long in being? But to go on.
After this inspecting law had been in use in Maryland,
why was it suffered to expire without being re-enacted?
Perhaps a low price in the fluctuation of the commo-
dity again explained that it did not compensate for
the hardships and expence the planter had under the
law been obliged to endure. A more certain deduction
this for its being suffered to expire, I am persuaded, than
any other that can be assigned. But then I am asked
what has made them revive the law again? I answer,
not the present boasted price of the commodity at home,
to be sure; for that rise proves itself either to have come
out of the merchants counting houses, or that it raised
only by the scent of a revival of that law; because the
very tobacco on which the price was raised, was all of
that very mean trash, &c. which their public newspapers
in Baltimore and elsewhere, had puffed out, by way of
extract from home. But is there not another cause to be
presumed why they have revived that law? Indeed, gen-
tlemen, you know there is. Just like other folks, the
Marylanders, frightened with what was but too common,
the rising and falling of tobacco, and never considering
that it is one of the depravations in this trade in particu-
lar, when things are selling cheap, to endeavour to make
them still cheaper, that the trader or merchant, who
sells them for another, may get the more money himself.
I say the counting houses easily could, and perhaps I may
demonstrate they do, sink the commodity lower by much
than what the course of fluctuation ever does. But yet,
as it is natural in all alarms of the kind, one person,
and indeed one colony, adopts the same wise remedies on
the same wise principles of another; by which means,
gentlemen, your college became imitated with a mere
adoration, in every unhappy measure of the kind which
it had fallen upon. The man resolved to gain in trade,
invents a thousand things to obstruct any discovery of
himself; and can as easily tell you you sent trash, under
an inspecting law, which he could not sell, as that you
sent a fine commodity without such a law, which he sold
well, though at a low market. A folio of these proofs
may be at any time produced. But what, dear gentle-
men, are you now to entertain the world or yourselves
with, either as a cause of the present low price, or as a
remedy for that cause? You have had your amending
law many years, and some years you have made it a law to
lessen the quantity by your extraordinary modifications.
And yet your merchants have, it seems, advised you “to
employ your slaves about any thing rather than tobacco,
for it is worth nothing, and must bring you in debt:”
Aye, there is the rub; and presumtively the very cause
why it is ever worth nothing among such a vast world of
luxurious consumers. Had these kind advisers been a
little more consistent in their apologies for their low sales,
and indeed not quite so barefaced as to think that we
could be cajoled by their artifice in advising against
their own interest, there would have been no very clear
ground for the least suspicion. But inconsistency has
never yet made any tolerable figure amongst the criteria
of truth. What credit then can be paid to one who bids
you leave off making the very thing which he lives by;
nay the very thing which he sends for to you? A gull
this, ye powers, indeed! In hopes that such a disinter-
ested complexion in advice, must compassionate his friends
into a firm persuasion of the difficulty he lay under in
not being able to give better prices than what he sent in,
and no doubt drive them to a mere forcing, that thing of
no value, that thing which must bring them in debt again,
under his disinterested care; at least that he might not
lose by any dead freight in his ship, sent in to accommo-
date so much reciprocal friendship, supposing they should
be brought in debt by what they sent him, for nobody
can suppose such a merchant must be a fool to condemn
his judgement and give a better price. Again. Perhaps
few are so minute as I am always, when examining into
such a mere excess in nature. I must therefore ask what
can be the reason that, even at the time when tobacco is
said to be worth nothing, we cannot get a pipe of cut and
dry tobacco at a less price than from 13d. to 18d. the
pound, which they actually charge in their invoices at-
tending their very kind advice? Can it be possible that the
smoker or manfacturer, who buys from them at five far-
things, or less, per pound, clear of duty, as your mer-
chant tells you, could have the impudence to make so
very consciencious a gentleman pay 13 or 18d. for it,
after he had manufactured it? To be sure the very enor-
mity of such an inconsistency must speak more than any
merchant, ever so disinterested, would care to explain.
The best sort of this tobacco is brought in here by the
honest captains, and sold much cheaper in current mo-
ney; and that by a method, no merchant can be a
stranger to. A quantity, perhaps about 50lbs. which the
act of parliament allows, to be exported, is bought,
cleared of the duty by its drawback, and this sold by the
manufacturer under 5d. so that a sale here, at 12d. cur-
rency, becomes a great penny. And to strengthen the
observation, even 5d. to the manufacturer, who had
bought at 5 farthings, as the merchant, by his sales, tells
you, is a trade which no conscience, but that of a mer-
chant, could well demand. Certain I am that no manu-
facturer could have demanded it of any merchant, who
had sold it to him for 5 farthings, because it is as 400 is
to 100, 300 per cent. at least, between the price bought
at, allow it 5 farthings, and the price sold at 5d. the
pound. Those who reason on pleas of the crown tell us,
that it is only by insignificant trifles that we come at the
discovery of great things; and I dare refer this circum-
stance to any ear, impartial enough to be open, to say
what is convincing or what is not. But to go a little
farther. Would not any body smile to hear an agent in
this country for one of these kind advisers, buying to-
bacco for him, and from the very man to whom the prin-
cipal had only neated from 37s. to 3£. the hogshead, and
offering him 10s. sterling a hundred Virginia weight? Does
not this man intend to make people believe that the mar-
ket will rise to 5£. or more, the hogshead, the next return,
or that it is worth more than he sold it for? Now, dear
conclave, weight these things in any scale of good sense,
and you must agree with me, that while our exports (our
tobacco) and our imports (our goods) all pass through
the same counting houses, it must be impossible for things
to be otherwise. I have mentioned, as one depravity in
trade, that where, in the common course of fluctuation,
any commodity shall not be in demand, its only natural
fluctuation; the merchant reduces it still lower in his
counting house, to serve his devoted purpose, gain; and
for the very same reason I add, he never gives the price
he sells it for, when it is in demand. Thus are we situ-
ated as to our export of our tobacco; the price is lessened,
the high counting house commissions, the charges begot
by fraud, and maintained by its prime minister, custom;
and after this commissions for selling, otherwise called by
them the petty commissions; and as to the goods sent in
by them, if double shop notes for one and the same thing,
from the same tradesman, one high charged, and the
other low, the high to be the correspondent’s charge,
the low the poor tradesman’s pay; if letters and tickets,
in books and goods, discovering a greater charge made
the correspondent, than paid the tradesman; if good
private people, from 25 to 40 per. cent. cheaper, can
be any proof of a counting house advance, I may dare any
body to dispute it; but not to deny it; for that would
be too bold a word, as to trade. Can it then be worth
your while to meditate about raising the price of tobacco
at home, when it must be a doubt whether you ever knew
what it was? To raise it here is the only way; and that
is to sell in to these counting house gentry, or let them
want it, if they will not buy it; and as soon as possible
to live ourselves out of debt, by even living down to the
lowest distress of the times, rather than not effect this
great work; because if any man, who has ever had an
opportunity to do it, will but reflecton the difference he
must have experienced in such a state of doubt, he must
be satisfied from whence his very low prices began. But,
for God’s sake, never let your consultations tend in the
least to compel industry to quit any employments which it
must, from experience, know how to manage, and to do
it with the least expence, and force it, by any kind of re-
striction, to pursue any other cultivation, in which both a
knowledge and money must be wanting to effect any com-
mon purpose; at least in the poor worn out lands in the
lower parts of the country, where there can only be
manure enough found by the poor planter to raise a crop
of tobacco. Adieu, with great submission.
EXPERIENCE.
Mrs. RIND,
I solicit your kindness in giving the following a place as
soon as possible, which will materially oblige,
MADAM,
Your very humble servant,
A CATHOLIC CHRISTIAN.
CHARITY SUFFERETH LONG, AND IS KIND.
THE rise and multiplication of dissenters in this co-
lony cannot give more pain to the friends of the
establishment than the proceedings against them in many
places must give to every generous and intelligent christi-
an. Liberty of conscience is so indisputably a right of
every human being, a right of such infinite consequence
to the present peace and future felicity of mankind, that
the least invasion of it calls for the serious attention
of all who with well to their fellow creatures. This con-
sideration prompts me to offer to the public some
thoughts on the treatment given to our sectaries, which
I am rather inclined to do at the present juncture, be-
cause the time approaches for the meeting of our assem-
bly, who, I presume, will pay due regard to a matter
of so much importance to multitudes, whose welfare
they are bound, in honour and fidelity, to take care of.
I cannot forbear adding, that as it gives me pleasure to
reflect that the representative of Virginia were the first
in opposing political oppression, so I am encouraged to
hope they will not be the last in abolishing religious per-
secution.
Without enquiring whether the toleration acts be in
force here, or have been legally executed, which I take
to be very questionable, or whether the act relating to
the induction of ministers extends to dissenters, which
might be denied, without the imputation of cavilling,
or whether the penal statutes of parliament, enacted
prior to the settlement of America, and not since abro-
gated with our concurrence, ought to be executed here,
which would introduce the most horrid mischiefs and
barbarities; I say, without entering on these enquiries,
I shall proceed to consider whether any benefit can re-
dound to the church of England, to the civil govern-
ment, or to the dissenters themselves, from the punish-
ment of them, on account of their doctrines and worship.
Is it the benefit of the church of England that is to be
promoted by employing the civil power against dissenters?
I hope the church of England does not stand in need of
carnal weapons to make it flourish. I am sure the church
of Christ does not; and if they are the same, or if the
first be a part of the other, such weapons should never be
seen in the hands of those who would manage her cause.
The religion of Christ was introduced, and made its way
in the world, by the force of well attested truth, against
swords, bonds, and imprisonments: Is it to the honour
of the church of England to have recourse to these anti-
christian means of supporting herself? The church of
Christ has always suffered persecution; for every one that
will live godly in Christ Jesus must suffer persecution in
some respect or other. Will not the church of England,
then be subjected to the charge of apostacy, when she
begins to inflict persecution? And will not those who are
persecuted think they have one strong evidence that they
are on the true plan, and that their adversaries are gone
over to the side of the world and the flesh, since they
borrow and fight with their weapons?
Whenever violence is used where rational arguments
would be more proper and successful, it implies that these
are wanting; it will be so interpreted at least. Christians
have reasoned thus against Mahometans; the church of
England has reasoned thus against papists. She must
not, then, be surprized, when she adopts their practices,
to find her reasonings retorted; and if she gives dissent-
ers the same advantages over her which she had over the
church of Rome at her separation, is there not reason to
apprehend they may be employed with equal industry
and success?
The truth is, it may be said of the church of England,
and every other christian church, that if the purity of
her doctrines, the dignity of her worship, the vigour of
her discipline, and the good behaviour of her members,
do not uphold her, it is not to be done to any good pur-
pose by any other means whatever; and if she has these
advantages on her side, all other means, all exertions of
the civil power, are superfluous.
If it be pretended that the safety of government re-
quires that the dissenters should be proceeded against by
the civil magistrate, I would desire to know whether
they have ever made an attack on the constitution?
Whether they have ever been detected in plotting con-
spirators, or stirring up rebellion? If they have, these
things should be alledged against them, should be made
the ground of the accusation, and the reason of their
punishment. But they dislike the church, and the church
is united to the government; they must therefor dislike
and resist the government, because of the union. And
must they be punished, too, on conjecture and suspicion?
Let it not be forgotten that we are protestants, and have
renounced the Romish inqusition. Admit that they do
think the civil establishment of the church of England a
fault in the contitution, it does not follow that they
have the least intention or desire to injure the constituti-
on. Many great men, many wise and good men, have
thought ecclesiastical establishments unjust and hurtful,
and yet have lived in the most quiet submission to them,
and been eminent for their loyalty. Besides, can the
execution of a penal law rectify their mistakes, or conci
liate their affection? Will it not rather encrease their
disapprobation of a government where their peace is
liable to be disturbed, their possessions wasted, and their
bodies imprisoned by every wanton bigot, and every
malicious enemy?
It it still be insisted, that there is a tendency in religi-
ous dissentions to popular commotions, and that dissent-
ers, for that reason, ought to be dreaded and checked,
I would say, that if it be true that there is such a ten-
dency, it can be owing to nothing else than the civil
punishment inflicted on dissenters. Mere religion has
nothing to do with the powers of this world. They are
distinct in their nature, and should be distinguished in all
political regulations. Whenever religion begins to dis-
turb the public peace, and threaten danger to civil so-
ciety, as it loses its nature, it ought to be changed in its
name, and should be suppressed, not as religion, but
sedition and riot. But when men who desire to live in
peace and content are perplexed and assaulted by the civil
arm, on account of their religion, not their religion,
but the indiscretion of the magistrate is the cause of the
danger; and this danger will always be greater or less,
acording to the number and principles of the sufferers.
When the number is small, there is an incapacity, and
when the principles are pacific and passive, there is a
want of inclination, to do mischief. It may be proper
to observe, that we have both these securities in our pre-
sent circumstances. However, allowing that we had reason
to apprehend danger from our dissenters (which I am
confident we have not) I refer it to every unprejudiced
man, whether a rigorous treatment of them would not
be manifestly inexpedient, which must at once urge them
to and furnish them with a more specious pretext for
hostile projects. Disaffection in the common people to a
government always arises from a sense of oppression.
They do not examine the nature of the constitution;
they do not penetrate into secret causes, nor look for-
ward into distant consequences; but they know when
they are imposed upon; they can feel their burden and
their misery. The surest way, therefore, to preserve
tranquility, in a free state, is to avoid grievances, which
touch on the conscience the most sensible part; as the
most eligible way to reconcile the disaffected is to take off
unnecessary impositions. Violence may destroy them,
but lenity may win their friendship.
Love is the strongest cement of society, and union in
religious sentiments promotes love. On this considera-
tion, a wise magistrate might desire uniformity in reli-
gion. but when divisions spring up, sectaries encrease,
parties begin to be formed, it is wisdom then to inculcate
mutual charity and toleration. Opposition and force
irritate and inflame; forbearance softens and assuages.
Whenever it happens, not only that one religious party
is protected by the civil power, but that another is har-
rassed and persecuted, it begets pride, contempt, and
cruelty, in the first, envy, hatred, and rage, in the
other; passions not less injurious to private happiness than
national prosperity.
But if uniformity in religion produced love and mutual
attachment, and is desireable on that account, it ought
to be remarked, at the same time, that this sort of con-
nection is very slender, where there is neither opposition
nor emulation. Add to this, that in universal agree-
ment, the spirit of enquiry ceases, religion stagnates and
corrupts, ignorance and profligacy of manners are esta-
blished, and ecclesiastical governors assume unlawful and
unjust prerogatives, which they can best maintain over
ignorant and guilty consciences. On the other hand,
different parties in religion, where they are all tolerated,
and each protected from injury from the others, keep up
emulation, enquiry and circumspection, in morals; effects
surely less hurtful to christianity, and less dangerous to
a free state, than uniformity, ignorance, and ecclesiasti-
cal tyranny.
As the good of the whole is the end of civil society,
and should always be kept in view by the legislature, all
partial grievances should be carefully avoided, and never
admitted, but in cases of extreme necessity. In countries
where there is an ecclesiastical establishment, and some
who cannot conform, the enjoyment of their religion
will cost some more than others, by reason of the double
demand on them from the law and their consciences.
Now it will naturally be thought hard by the non-con-
formists, however necessary it may appear to politicians,
or however patiently it may be submitted to , that any
should be compelled to give away part of their property
without receiving any equivalent and perhaps to support
a scheme of religion, too, which they look upon to be
subversive ot the truth. This is certainly an inconveni-
ence, if it be an unavoidable one. It ought, therefore,
to be made as easy and light as possible, and not aggra-
vated by unnecessary restrictions. If the blessings of a
civil society, from the nature of its constitution, do not
flow in equal measure, on all who are equally loyal, so
as to procure the same degree of affection from all, po-
licy, not to say justice, requires that the difference should
be as small as will possibly consist with the welfare of the
whole; for the safety of a community is most established
when it is most the interest of every individual to support
it, and, without dispute, it is most the interest of every
individual to support it when his person, his property,
and his religion, are best secured from invasion, when
the laws leave him the free exercise of his private judg-
ment, and levies no tax on the conscience which acknow-
ledges no human jurisdiction.
It will appear still more imprudent to have penal laws
against dissenters when the difficulty and tendency of ex-
ecuting them is considered. To give them their proper
effect it must be necessary to proportion their severity,
not only to different offences, but to different aggrava-
tions of the same offence. Let us attend to the conse-
quence of this: A person is apprehended for preaching
contrary to law. He alledges, in vindication of himself,
the obligations of conscience, and the necessity of obeying
God rather than man. This does not satisfy the magis-
trate, who is to execute, not to make laws. The offend-
er must therefore be sent to gaol, where the dictates of
conscience still compel him to transgress the law, even
while under punishment for disobedience. This again
must be deemed insult and contempt of the law, and
must be treated with a higher degree of correction, which
will neither cool an enthusiast, nor intimidate a real
martyr. In short, perseverance must continue to heighten
the crime, and provoke still higher and higher degrees
of severity, till the unhappy sufferer is brought to the
block, the stake, or the rack. This is the natural pro-
gress and necessary issue. For if ever the punishment
stops while the offence is repeated the victory is lost, and
the impotence of the law must give fresh courage to the
offender. All who have observed the effect of imprison-
ment on the dissenters among us will be convinced of the
truth of this representation.
It will probably be objected against this that penal
laws compass their end by striking terror. I answer, they
do so when the penalty is greater than the advantage
expected from the transgression of them. In religion,
this is not the case, and consequently the objection loses
its force. Infinite happiness, when the mind is fixed upon
it, will not be given up for any consideration whatever;
nor does death itself, even the most cruel death, which
is the utmost human power can inflict, bear any propor-
tion to the eternal torments apprehended from evading it
by apostacy. If any think that the difference between
the presence and the absence of objects will make up for
the difference between their intrinsic worth and dread-
fulness, I desire they would recollect, that enthusiasm,
as well as that faith, which is the evidence of things not
seen, always diminishes the regard for present enjoy-
ments, and transfers the affections to the invisible world.
Some may likewise object, that the present restriction
of dissenters under the toleration act, as regulated by the
general court, are too equitable to justify a request for
the enlargement of religious privileges. In reply to this,
many things might be mentioned; but instead of recount-
ing particular inconveniencies, which must occur to almost
every thinking man, I will make the two following ob-
servations: The act of toleration gives liberty to all who
properly apply for it, and are ready to perform the con-
ditions. I have never understood that there is any exception
or persons, or that the courts at home have the least au-
thority to refuse the benefit where it is duly claimed. The
case, I believe, is different in this colony. The general
court, if I am not misinformed, taking the authority to
refuse and limit according to their own pleasure, even
when the claimants are willing to submit to all the requi-
sitions of the law. If this be true, it ought to be con-
sidered, that, however indulgent the present gentlemen
in power may be, the liberty of the subject is not way se-
cure while it depends on the will of fallible men, or a
succession of fallible men. To depend on the will of man
is, in truth, the very definition of slavery, and all whom
it includes must be destitute of true liberty; though they
have the good fortune to be blessed with kind masters.
Nothing can give perpetuity and safety to the rights of
the subjects but the establishment of them by law; and
the more particular and clear the law is the greater se-
curity there is to those who live under it. Obscurity and
uncertainty leave such a latitude of construction as ex-
alts the judge almost into the seat of the legislator. The
other observation to be made is, that the capacity of dis-
senters to submit to the requisitions of the toleration act
is purely accidental, and what, I believe, will but little
recommend their principles to those who are most for-
ward in exacting their compliance. It is notorious, that
there are several articles of the church generally denied
by both clergy and laity. Now if it should so fall out,
that a dissenting teacher should find exceptions against
those very articles, and should hold the same religious
sentiments with the generality of the clergy of the church,
his is utterly deprived of the benefit of the law, though
he must be deemed so deserving of it; unless, like most
of the gentlemen of the establishment, he will, against all
honesty, fidelity, and conscience, receive with his hand
what he rejects with his heart. Now can any law be said
to give a reasonable latitude to dissenters when it extends
only to persons of one particular set of people, and may
deprive multitudes of the enjoyment of their religion,
who are equally attached to the civil government, equal-
ly attached to the king, who cannot be charged with
the want of one civil or focal virtue, and, what is still
more, agree with most of the clergy in every thing which
any honest man could desire, in every thing except their
hypocritical, impious,and mercenary subscription! Or
it is equitable that such persons should be deprived of the
exercise of their functions when those of the same faith.
because they have less sincerity and conscience, are pro-
tected by law, and are rewarded with an honourable and
independant maintenence?
Though innumerable other arguments might be adduced
in favour of toleration, I shall confine myself to the fol-
lowing, as of most peculiar concernment to us. In the
first place, it promotes population, on which the stability
and security of government so much depend. Moderation
of government, of which toleration in religion makes a
very considerable part, as it attaches natives, and encour-
rages industry, so it must promote marriage by facilitating
the maintenance of families, and opening a prospect of
happiness of the offspring. Besides this, toleration at-
tracts and invites foreigners, and causes an accession of
arts and improvements as well as of people. It is worthy
of observation, likewise, that countries, where liberty of
conscience is most liberally granted, become the retreat
of the most honest and consciencious emigrators, who are
most sensible of its value, and most apt to be oppressed for
their integrity, in adhering to their religion. The power-
ful and populous state of Holland, which has not less
than five millions of inhabitants, has been attributed, by
all impartial judges, to the beneficial influence of tolera-
tion; and the present flourishing state of Pennsylvania,
and the great influx of people of all nations and religions,
manifestly shew how alluring the fruits of religious liberty
are to the oppressed and persecuted.
Virginia, in particular, would find her account in pro-
curing the settlement of foreigners, as it would augment
the proportion of free men, and lessen the danger and
the evil consequences of slavery. I leave this hint to be im-
proved by every sagacious friend to this country. Unani
mity and harmony among the colonies is indispensably
necessary for the safely and property of the whole. The
growing number of people, the extent of situation, dif-
ference in the forms of government, and variety of customs
and opinions, must daily render such a union and har-
mony more difficult. These obstructions to union must
likewise be when arbitrary attempts from Europe cease to
compel it, and unavoidable contests and national preju-
dices begin to banish the sense of a community of in-
terests. It would, therefore, be a noble precaution in
each provintial legislature, to frame their laws with an
eye to the good of the whole, and so as to preserve uni-
versal concord and affection. What can be more ne-
cessary in this view than tenderness towards dissenters?
We must always expect to have some of them among us,
who are allied, by religious profession, to many in the
sister colonies, and shall we caress those at a distance as
friends and brethren, and shall we be so inhospitable as
to distress those who reside among ourselves? Can any
thing be concieved more likely to alienate the affections
of the people of the other colonies than the violation of
the sacred rights of their christian brethren? Will they
think us real friends to christianity when we thus renounce
charity and forebearance? Will they believe us true to the
cause of civil liberty when we disavow religious liberty,
so indissolubly connected with it? In a word, can they
take us for true friends to dissenters abroad when we shew
ourselves enemies to them at home? Or can they look
upon us as firm friends to America when we make laws
that would injure so many of its inhabitants if they but
set their feet in our government, and worship their Maker
as they do at home?
In the last place, I proposed to consider whether any
benefit can accrue to the dissenters themselves from the
civil prosecution of them. As no one can pretend to say
their bodies or estates are the better for imprisonment, or
other punishment, the good of the soul only can be in-
tended. We read in scripture, it is true, of some being giv-
en up to Satan, that their bodies might be afflicted for the
saving of their souls; but to legitimate such a procedure
now, it ought to be proved that the officer is the Devil,
and the judge an apostle; points not so easy to be made
out.
I cannot persuade myself there is need of saying much
to disprove the doctrine that men are to be whipped out
of heresy, or brought into the light of the gospel by the
darkness of a dungeon; that their minds are to be set at
liberty from error by the confinement of their bodies, and
that truth and reason cannot make their way into the
understanding without the illuminating arguments of
violence and terror. It may be more to my purpose,
perhaps, to substitute the following reflection.>/p>
The major part of the dissenters in this colony have
been chiefly stigmatized with enthusiasm and fanaticism.
It is not my intention to enquire whether they are inno-
cent or culpable in this particular. Even allowing the
reproach to be just, I take it to be very obvious that pe-
nal laws must be detrimental to them. All who are ac-
quainted with these people must know that the ruined
and degenerate state of human nature, and the opposition
between the spirit of the world and the spirit of holiness,
are doctrines held by them in the most strict sense, and
that most of their other principal doctrines are grafted
on these. Now I would desire every sober person to con-
sider whether opposition and force in the least tend to
eradicate such opinions, or to abate their zeal in main-
taining them. The reformation of the world is the end
of all religion and preaching, and it is natural for those
who undertake it to proportion their zeal and diligence
to their apprehension of its wickedness. Certainly then
it is impolitic to attempt to suppress a religion whose fun-
damental article must receive confirmation from the very
nature of the attempt. All violent endeavours against
them cannot fail to magnify their sense of the danger and
misery of their enemies, and convince them more and
more of the necessity of encreasing their fervour and in-
dustry. I cannot put a conclusion to this discourse with-
out expostulating a little with those who have been most
active in promoting the prosecution of dissenters. If any
of the reverend clergy are in this number, I would desire
to know of you, gentlemen, where you learned this doc-
trine of persecution for conscience sake. Your divine
master never taught it when on earth; his apostles never
gave the least countenance to it, unless it was by suffer-
ing patiently under it. On the contrary, does not the
meekness of your master, and gentleness of his doctrines,
continually admonish you for it? Ought not the example
of the apostles and primitive christians to make you
ashamed of your conduct? And does not the declaration
of the once persecuting, but then converted Paul, that
the weapons of your warfare are not carnal, stand re-
corded against you? Call to remembrance your noble
predecessors Crammer, Latimer, Hooper, Ridley, &c. and
learn of them to suffer, not to inflict persecution. Do
not forget that you owe your religion and rights of con-
science to the boldness of these men, in defending christi-
an liberty against antichristian persecutors. And can you
be so unjust as to deny to others the privileges purchased
for all protestants with the blood of such glorious mar-
tyrs: Will you adopt principles which must condemn
the founders of the church you live in, and justify those
who strove to demolish it? Or will you, in one breath,
renounce the right of others, to punish you for differ-
ence of judgement, and arrogate the right of punishing
others for difference of judgment? If a papist ask on what
authority you separate from the Roman communion,
you answer, conscience directs it, and I plead the right
of private judgment. If a dissenter forsake your commu-
nion, is he not entitled to the same right of private judg-
ment? You cannot be so weak as to say you contend for
truth and necessary reformation, but the dissenters are
running into error and fantastic refinement; for the
right of conscience consists in every man’s making the dis-
tinction for himself.
If I am addressing any clergyman who have come over
to the church of England from some other protestant
church, I confess myself at a loss of what to say to you.
The inconsistency, baseness, and inhumanity, of your
conduct, is beyond expression; nor is it possible to assign
a palliating excuse for you. You cannot plead igno-
rance; for yourselves have used the right of private
judgment when you changed your religion. You cannot
plead the prejudices of custom and education; for you
disclaimed these when you became converts to the church
of England. To say the truth, there appears but too
much room to suspect that you have been governed neither
by ignorance nor a mistaken zeal for religion, neither by
prepossession nor any thing else than a hope that the put-
ting a stop to dissention and enquiry would enable you
the more quietly to enjoy those secular emoluments which
you have prostituted your consciences to obtain.
As for such laymen as disply their heroism in distress-
ing their fellow subjects on account of their opinions and
practices in religion, I should be glad to know whether
they intend the honour and maintenance of the laws, or
the advancement of christianity. If they intend the first,
I would ask why their public spirit is not equally affected
at the other laws that are daily infringed? Gaming,
swearing, drunkenness, and travelling on the sabbath,
are as strictly forbidden by the law as preaching and
praying, and, I presume, not less injurious to civil so-
ciety.
If they pretend religion for what they do, it is natural
to enquire whether they are equally consciencious in ex-
tirpating wickedness and irreligion of every kind. But
is there any evidence of this? Are they more concerned
at the contempt of the laws of God, and more circum-
spect in their christian behaviour, than others around
them? Do they shew themselves on all occasions the pro-
moters of virture and piety, and distinguish themselves
by their zeal in abolishing licentious customs? Let their
friends and neighbours say whether they are faithful in
reproving their offending brethren, and inculcating the
meekness sobriety, and charity, enjoined by the laws of
Christ. Let their families say whether they are careful
in setting good examples at home, in worshipping their
Maker, in instructing their children and servants, and
in studying the sacred scriptures; and let their own hearts
say whether they are doing as they would be done by,
and as becomes one human being to do by another.
I would further ask these men of violence whether they
are influenced in what they do by a rational approbation
of the articles and discipline of the church? If they an-
swer in the affirmative, it may be justly demanded why
they do not employ some of their zeal against the clergy,
who notoriously neglect and deviate from them? But if
they do not cordially approve of the doctrines of the
church, let every candid man determine whether they be
not in fact dissenters themselves; and is it not egregious
injustice and inhumanity to refuse to others the liberty
they secretly assume to themselves?
When these pretended friends to the government and
public religion come to be tried in such a way as this,
every man of judgment must perceive that they are either
infatuated bigots, or contemners of all real goodness;
who being destitute of all care of their immortal part,
and insensibly of the value of the sacred rights of con-
science, think little of the crime and cruelty of denying
them to others.
A CATHOLIC CHRISTIAN.
Mrs. RIND,
Please to insert the following QUERIES in your next gazette.
1. WHETHER the absolute power given by the
militia law to the lieutenant of every county
to appoint all the officers under him is not productive of
too great influence?
2. Whether this influence does not extend to the
men under these officers command? Whether the people
can then be free, or whether they are not in some degree
of slavery?
3. Whether the absolute exercise of this power in
the lieutenant is not the principal cause of that indiffer-
ence and ignorance of the military discipline too often
seen in many of the officers in our militia, while merit
and qualification are quite disregarded?
4. Whether the legislature would not more effectually
remove this error if the several officers, to supply vacan-
cies, or to command new companies, were to be chosen
by, and in the court martials respectively, or the major
part of them then present, with the same reason that
magistrates and vestrymen are to be chosen by a majority?
BOSTON, April 18.
A LETTER from St. Croix, dated March 14, says:
”To complete the ruin of this island, we have a
stampact, which has just taken place, and is perhaps the
most oppressive order ever imposed, even in oppressive govern-
ments. Every man in common business is obliged ot use stamp
paper. A running account is forfeited if on common paper,
and the party rendering it severely fined; receipts are not
valid unless stamped; paper for obligations are excessive
high, some sheets costing 200 piece of eight; a sheet for a
bill of sale is four pieces of eight, for an account four ryals.
At this rate the country will soon lose all the English in-
habitants; for no true Englishman will ever live under
such oppression. These stamps are not all we are to expect;
a few months will convince us that the expences of that kind
of paper will be trivial to other burthens and taxes we shall
be made to pay, such as a heavy poll tax on the white people.
All dry goods are, and must, be stamped, and such as are
not must be forfeited; also an additional duty on produce is
expected. These are great hardships on the continent, as
well as us here; and I do not know what way to bring our
tyrants to reason, but by your with-holding your trade from
us one year. I believe the inhabitants would suffer a tem-
porary inconvenience for a lasting establishment, on a good
footing; for by a stagnation of trade from America, even
for a few months, little or no money would go into the king’s
treasury, and then our governor would see the dependence
of this island was on the continent both for the means of
sustenance and money.”
PHILADELPHIA, April 27.
By captain Hindson, in a short passage from Jamaica,
we learn, that a few days before he sailed captain Mor-
gan arrived there from the Downs, who on his passage
spoke the Mercury Packet, captain Sharpe, from Ben-
gal and Madrass for London, dispatched home with the
very important news of the city of Tanjour being taken
by the East India company’s troops, under the command
of general Spencer, who made the king prisoner, and
that the city, with the king, was agreed to be ransomed;
also that another province in India, taken by the compa-
ny’s troops, previous to the capture of Tanjour, had been
disposed of for 1400,000£.600,000£. of which was then on
board the said packet, as a remittance to the company.
Extract of a letter from London, dated February 18.
”Six ships of war and seven regiments, are ordered
for America with all expedition; for what purpose time
must discover. The premier is much perplexed, on ac-
count of the behaviour of the Bostonians; and Great
Britain is determined to enforce due obedience to her
laws, as the mother country. The letters sent to Boston
by Dr. Franklin have made great noise here, and he has
been roughly handled by the ministry for the same; but
it is pretty well known, with us, that the said letters were
given by Mr. Whateley to the late honourable George
Grenville, at whose death they fell into the hands of lord
Temple, who gave them to the honourable Mr. Fitzher-
bert, and they were by that gentleman to Dr. Franklin.”
WILLIAMSBURG, MAY 12.<,br>Extract of a letter from a gentleman of character in
Dumfries to his friend in this city.
”The frost and snow, on Wednesday and Thursday morn-
ing, have made great havock with the tobacco plants, and
almost every thing that is growing. It is the general opi-
nion that what plants are left the fly will destroy. But
what is still more alarming, the wheat fields are in gene-
ral destroyed. This was not discovered till Friday. On
Saturday morning, when this news came to Dumfries, it
was not believed; but the accounts coming in from every
quarter, confirming it, shewed such a melancholy counte-
nance in the face of every person, that it is more easily
understood than described. I can with certainty inform
you that, to appearance, our wheat on the river and creeks
is greatly hurt. Judge you for the frontiers, and our
northern brethren. It is reported in Dumfries that Mr.
Whiting, and several of the farmers above, have opened
their wheat fields for pasturage.”
By an express, just arrived from Fincastle county, we
are informed, that very lately three or four skirmishes
happened between the white people and the Shawanese
Indians. We cannot affirm what occasioned the dispute,
but are told that one of the white men had taken some
small matter from the Indians, which irritated them to
arms; but were soon repelled by the other party, who
killed eleven of them, seven of which they scalped. Ano-
ther of the Indians was terribly wounded in the groin,
and it was imagined, when this express came away, that
he could not possibly recover.
The Brilliant, Miller, and Martin, Clark, from Lon-
don, the York, Rose, and ______, Benton, from White-
haven, are arrived in York river; and the Donald,
Ramsay, from Glasgow, in James river.
RALEIGH and ACADEMICUS could not possibly
appear in this paper; but will certainly have places in
our next. We should also have complied with HOB’S re-
quest had room permitted. We acknowledge the receipt
of two or three other pieces, which have met with our
approbation, and shall speedily be attended to.
Just imported from London, and to be disposed of by the
subscriber, at a low advance, for ready money only,
A NEAT and elegant assortment of MILLINERY,
JEWELLERY, and other GOODS, which are
exceeding well chose, and in the newest taste, viz. Patent,
nett, and blond lace hoods, rich suits of ditto, puffs,
whims, fancy, true Italian, and gauze caps, ditto nosegay
and breast flowers, sultains, egrets, fillets, baves, plumes,
minionet lace, blond ditto, and thread edging, gentle-
mens laced ruffles, ladies tupees and French curles, blue,
black, and white ostrich feathers, riding hats, suitable
gloves to ditto, Jacob’s ladder, velvet collars, locket,
crown taste, and a great variety of other ribbands, true
Italian, lace, ribband, fancy, and silver stomachers, silver
corals and bells, plain and set combs, paste buckles,
bows and soletaires, various kinds of sprig and paste pins,
blue agate set round with marcasite, pinch wax, real gar-
net and mock, paste, white wax and wax pearl necklaces
and earrings, cluster, garnet, plain gold, and marcasite
lockets and crosses, black pins, earring and stay hooks,
paste ditto, gold bands, buttons, and loops, watch strings,
keys, seals, and trinkets, smelling bottles, tortoiseshell dan-
dy prats, pocketbooks with instruments, fine India cot-
ton thread, floss, and sewing silk, green silk purses,
needles, pins, bobbins and tapes, single and double black
pins, curing tongues, and hair powder, patent, ribbed,
and white China hose, fine cotton and thread ditto, Dids-
bury’s shoes, Gresham’s pumps, pink, blue, and white
sattin ditto, pink, blue, and white sattin quilts, black
ruffell ditto, beautiful wedding and French mounted
fans, second mourning, black, and common ditto, rich
white flowered and plain lustring, shot and striped ditto,
plain and striped taffeties, India chintzes and calllicoes,
fine Irish linen, superfine India dimity, black bombazeen,
grained kid, lamb, silk gloves and mits, boys caps and
feathers, chipped cane hats, bonnets, and cloaks,
book and thick muflins, cambricks, lawns, white and
black gauzes, catgut and queen’s nett book muslin and
lawns, needle worked aprons, black, white and coloured
flowered casting handkerchiefs, muslin lawn, gauze,
and checkered ditto, rich sword suits, undressed dolls, very
nice brass mounted trucks, either for chariot or chaise;
and a multiplicity of other articles, too tedious to enu-
merate. M. DICKERSON.
N. B. She returns those gentlemen and ladies, who
have favoured her with their custom, her most cordial
thanks; particularly her good friends in the country;
and as it shall ever be her study to give satisfaction, they
may rely on their orders being attended to with the
strictest care, by their much obliged, and very humble
servant, M. D.
PURSUANT to a decree of the honourable the gene-
ral court will be sold, for ready money, at Hamp-
shire courthouse, on the second Tuesday in June next,
three tracts of LAND, of 500 acres each, in the said
county of Hampshire, on George Andis’s mill run, and
adjoining the lands of Henry Heath, the property of the
late Mr. Joseph Watson, deceased, and by him mort-
gaged to Mr. Garret Meade of Philadelphia, who has
obtained a decree for a sale to satisfy his demand. A
conveyance, with special warranty, will be made the pur-
chaser by The SHERIFF of HAMPSIRE.
*** These lands were formerly advertised in this paper
for sale, and prevented by bad weather, but will now be
sold without fail.
DUMFRIES, May 2, 1774.
The members of the Dumfries jockey club are de-
sired to meet here on Saturday the 11th of June,
to settle the time of the races. Such members as cannot
conveniently attend, and want to fix them at any parti-
cular time, will please to signify the same by letter to
me, and their respective proposals shall be laid before the
club. 3 RICHARD GRAHAM.
To be SOLD in Brunswick, on the Great Creek,
SEVEN hundred and thirty acres of land, most part
of which is good for tobacco. There are several
improvements on it, as to buildings, a good orchard, &c.
Any person inclinable to purchase may know the terms
by applying to the subscriber, on the premises.
3 JOHN HOGWOOD.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of Richard Kel-
sick, deceased, of the borough of Norfolk, are
requested to make immediate payment; and those who
have any demands against the said estate, are desired to
make them know to
JOSEPH HUTCHINGS, Executor.
WHEREAS it has been reported by some ill disposed
person or persons, and that in the most virulent
and sarcastic terms, which is commonly the case of
malevolents, with a determined resolution it should
reach the ears of every one, and was consequently propa-
gated by some or other of the vicious race of mortals,
who delight in nothing better than backbiting their neigh-
bours, that I the subscriber hereof have been guilty of
using too much familiarity amongst my scholars, and
thereby rendered them disobedient, so that it could not
possibly be expected they would profit much in coming to
me: In vindication of that notorious falsity, and for the
clearer proof to that species of unenlightened being, or
beings, I do entreat him, or them, to repair to my
school room, at Mr. Robert Jackson’s, whensoever it shall
suit, and should he or they be disposed to believe his, or
their own eyes, I can flatter myself to be capable of shew-
ing them as well disciplined a school as any in the city of
Williamsburg; and in order to prevent any the like dis-
turbances for the future amongst my benevolent and kind
wellwishers, or friends, who informed me of this unjust
charge, he or they shall receive as severe a reprimand as
can be offered by his or their humble servant.
B. LE PETIT.
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 know to the subscriber in Norfolk.
t.f. BASSETT MOSELEY.
A COCK MATCH,
TO be fought on Whitsuntide Monday, at Mr. Har-
dyman Dancy’s (or better known by the name of
Eggmond’s Ordinary) between the gentlemen of the up-
per and lower ends of Charles city. To shew 20 cocks
for 3£. the odd one. There will be a
ball in the evening for the ladies.
ON Wednesday the 14th of April last ran away from
the subscriber, in Westmoreland county, Thomas
Puttrell, an indented white servant man, by trade a
butcher, but understands gardening and farming, and
says he is acquainted with the business of a bricklayer
and plaisterer. This is the third time of his running
away, and when he went off before he was near two
months in the neighbourhood of Richmond town, and
lived with one Isaac Parker, and probably may be in that
part of the country now. In July last he was taken up
in Bedford county. He is a trunchy well made man, of
a fair complexion, has hazle eyes, brown hair, which
curls in his neck, is round faced, has very white teeth,
which he shews when he speaks or grins, and speaks
sharp and quick. He has the common apparel of ser-
vants, and he has a forged pass, signed by James Mose-
ley, master of the schooner Nancy, discharged from Alex-
andria, and is called a native of old Nansemond town in
Virginia. There went off with the said Thomas Puttrell
an indented white servant man belonging to Thomas
Attwell of Westmoreland, who has likewise a forged
pass, signed by the same James Moseley, and is therein
called John Underwood, although his right name is Ed-
ward Duberg. He is a slim, well made man, near six
feet high, and a sailor, and has been in Spain, Portugal,
and France. He says he was brought up at Cambridge,
and pretends to understand Latin, French, Spanish,
Portuguese, and Dutch. He came in the Success’s In-
crease, captain Curtis, into Rappahanpock, and was sold
for a schoolmaster. He robbed one Mrs. Hume of about
20£. worth of wearing apparel, among which were some
jewellery, caps, aprons, handkerchiefs, &c. which he
and Puttrell sold as they went along. The above servants
were seen on their way to Gloucester town, between
York and Rappahannock, and it is supposed they will
pass for sailors, and go to Norfolk, or make for Caro-
lina. Whoever apprehends them, so as they be delivered
to their masters, shall have a reward of FOUR POUNDS
for each, besides what the law allows.RICHARD LEE,
THOMAS ATTWELL.
FIVE POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from my plantation near this place, last
night, two servant men, named George and John
Allen, very lately imported in the Justitia, consigned to
Mr. Thomas Hodge, at Leeds town. George is a likely
young fellow, about 25 years of age, 5 feet 10 or 11
inches high, stoops much, and is remarkably round
shouldered; had on when he went away a dark coloured
bearskin jacket and breeches, and a small round hat
with a black ribband and buckle. John is brother to
George, slender made, and two inches under his size;
had on the same sort of clothes, only a pair of old shoes
cut open at the toes. Any person who will apprehend
the said servants, and secure them so that I may get
them, shall be entitled to the above reward; and all per-
sons are hereby forewarned, as they may probably pre-
tend to pass for sailors, from carrying them out of the
country. THOMAS MONTGOMERIE.
Dumfries, April 25.
STOLEN from the subscriber’s door on Saturday
night the 7th instant (May) a dark brown bay horse,
with saddle and bridle on, about 15 hands high, nine
years old, trots and gallops, is a little touched in his
wind, had a long bob tail and hanging mane, and no
perceivable brand. Whoever brings the said horse to
me shall receive TWENTY SHILLINGS reward, and
FIVE POUNDS on conviction of the thief.
JOHN DRAPER.
Williamsburg, May 10, 1774.
TAKEN up, in Buckingham, a small bay mare,
with three white feet, has a small star in her fore-
head, grey hairs in her tail and mane, docked, but no
perceivable brand, about 2 or 3 years old, about 4 feet
1 inch high, and is very gentle. Posted, and appraised
to 3£. 10s. * ISAAC CHASTIN.
TAKEN up, a small dark iron grey mare colt, about
2 years old, has a long tail, and is branded on the
ear buttock, as well as I can make out, 0I. Posted,
d appraised to 2£. 5s. JOHN BRUIN.
FOR CHARTER,
THE ship Caesar, William Wetherald, master, bur-
then about 450 hogsheads of tobacco, now lies at
Norfolk, and has made but one voyage. Apply to said
master. tf GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
*** On board of said ship is a quantity of Whitehaven
COAL, of the best quality, which will be sold very
cheap. Apply to Mr. Joseph Kidd, in Williamsburg.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox 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 wea-
ther, 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous to the owner. Also another tract of land of 126
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.
To be SOLD, on the premises, to the highest bidder,
on Monday the 25th of July, pursuant to the will of
William Anderson, deceased,
A TRACT of LAND containing 394 acres, on
Blackwater Swamp, in Surry, within 8 or 9 miles
of Cabin Point. The land is of a very good quality,
and well timbered. There are no improvements, and
not above two or three acres cultivated. One third of
the purchase money to be paid on the day of sale, and
twelve months credit will be allowed for the other two
thirds, on giving bond, with approved security, to
2 The ADMINISTRATORS.
RUN away on the 20th of April last, from the sloop
FRIENDSHIP, William Johnston Rysam, master,
lying at Yorktown, MINGO, a stout well made black
negro fellow, of a down cast look, limps on one side,
Virginia born, and about 35 years old, has been used to
plantation work and going by water. Whoever will deliver
him to William Reynolds, esquire, at York, John Perrin,
esquire, of Gloucester, or the subscriber, at Norfolk,
shall have THRITY SHILLINGS reward, besides what
the law allows. 3 MATTHEW PHRIPP
RUN away from the subscriber, on the 1st instant
(May) a servant man named John Mason, of a
dark complexion, short dark hair, about 5 feet 10 inches
high, has lately had a cut over one of his eyes, supposed
to be the left, and is by trade a perukemaker; had on a
dark blue coat, striped waistcoat, white breeches, and
pale blue stockings. Whoever secures the said servant,
so that I get him again, shall receive 40s. and if delivered
to me in Norfolk, 3£. DAVID REYNOLDS.
TAKEN up, in Fincastle, a black mare, about seven
years old, branded on the near shoulder A, with
4 white feet, and a blaze in her face, paces, is hipshot,
and about 13 hands 3 inches high. Posted, and ap-
praised to 7£. JAMES DAVIS.
TAKEN up, in Fincastle, a sorrel horse, 4 years old,
13 hands and an inch high, with a white mane and
tail, his fore legs from the knees down almost white, and
the hoofs of his fore feet twist in wards, has a star in his
forehead, a small snip on his nose, branded on the near
jaw T, and has a bell on, with a leather collar and dou-
ble buckle. Posted, and appraises to 4£. 5s.
* THOMAS MONTGOMERY.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, a bay horse, about 9
years old, branded on the near buttock SH, and
about 4 feet 10 inches high. Posted, and appraised to
12£. + BENJAMIN CLARKE.
TAKEN up in Lunenburg, a small roan sorrel
mare, about 4 feet 1 inch high, branded on the
near shoulder and buttock פ, has a large blaze in her
face, her two hind feet white up to her hams, appears
to be about 10 or 12 years old, with a hanging mane
and switch tail. Posted, and appraised to 3£. 10s.
+ NICHOLAS HOBSON.
THIS DAY WAS PUBLISHED,
A CANDID refutation of the heresy imputed by
ro. C. Nicholas, esquire, to the reverend S. Hen-
ley. SOLD at both printing offices. Price 2s. 6d.
WHEREAS Mr. Kemp Plummer, and Mr. William
Plummer, junior, have conveyed away ten NE-
GROES, belonging to the estate of major Kemp Plum-
mer, deceased, consisting of men, women, and children,
which said negroes they have no right to, this is to
forewarn the public from purchasing any of them.
GEORGE W. PLUMMER, executor.
Fincastle county, to wit,
GEORGE the third, by the grace of God, of Great
Britain, France, and Ireland, king, defender of
the faith, &c. To the sheriff of Fincastle county, greet-
ing: We command you that you summon Francis Wil-
ley, an infant under the age of twenty one years, son
and heir of James Willey deceased, to appear before our
justices of our court of our said county, at the courthouse,
on the first Tuesday in next month, to answer a bill in
chancery, exhibited against him by William Calhoon;
and this he shall in now wise omit, under the penalty of
100£. and have then there this writ. Witness John Byrd,
clerk of our said court, this 9th day of June, in the 13th
year of our reign. * JOHN BYRD.
FOR SALE,
A UALUABLE tract of land, lying in the lower end
of Amherst county, on James river, containing
upwards of 1000 acres, nearly adjoining the lands of
Doctor William Cabell, running near three miles on
the river, with an island adjacent, containing between
30 and 40 acres, to be sold with or without the said
tract. There is a plantation hereon in good order for
cropping, and sufficient for 10 or 12 hands; also a white
shad fishery, and a remarkable natural fishpond, with a
plenty of limestone for building. Any person in-
clinable to purchase may know the terms by applying to
the subscriber, in Henrico, who is one of the trustees of
Mr. John Howard. 3 THOMAS PROSSER.
To be SOLD, by the subscriber, at Stafford courthouse,
on the 2d Monday in June next, if fair, otherwise the
first fair day,
THREE tracts of land, adjoining each other, and
lying in Stafford county, on Potowmack creek;
on one of which is a very commodious tavern, and other
necessary houses, garden, &c. within a few yards of the
courthouse. The situation is very advantageous for a
publican’s business, and remarkable for fish and fowl.
Fifteen acres of the land were laid down in timothy about
four years ago, and there are near 40 acres of marsh,
which might be easily reclaimed, and at a small expense.
Terms will be made known on the day of sale.
5 GEORGE DENT, junior.
FOR sale, by the subscriber in Hanover town, at a
low advance, for ready money, or on short credit,
GERMAN OZNABRIGS, ROLLS, and several bales
of RUSSIA DRILLING. 3 THOMAS SIMPSON.
WILLIAMSBURG, April 26, 1774.
THE subscriber being under a necessity of returning
to England the ensuing summer, will sell off his
remaining STOCK of GOODS at a low advance to a
wholesale purchaser; and desires all persons indebted to
him to pay off their respective balances immediately, that
his affairs may be properly adjusted before his departure.
3* GEORGE PITT.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Mathew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Suffex, the 16th
of February last, a negro man named JAMES,
about 22 years of age, of a yellowish complexion, 5 feet
2 or 3 inbces high; had on, and took with him, an old
hat, a fearnought jacket of a purple colour, a mixed
yarn jacket without sleeves, and something longer than
the other, a striped Virginia cloth shirt, with the six white
ones, and two of blue, negro cotton breeches, with a
green streak across the fore parts, a pair of old shoes,
and negro cotton boots. Any person that will bring the
said slave to the subscriber shall have five pounds, if
taken out of the colony, and forty shillings if taken in
Virginia. 3 THOMAS HUSON.
COMMITTED to the gaol of Charles City, on
Saturday the 16th instant (April) a lusty negro
woman, who says her name is Peggy Wilson, 5 feet 7
inches high, formerly belonged to one Richard Hunt, on
Roanoke, by him sold to David Taylor, of York county,
and purchased of said Taylor by one Peyton, for the
use of Mr. John Tabb, in Amelia. The owner is desired
to pay charges, and take her away.
3 STITH GREGORY, gaoler.
TAKEN up, in Cumberland, near the lower bridge,
on Williss’s creek, a bright bay mare, about 4 feet
6 inches high, supposed to be 3 or 4 years old, not dock-
ed, both hind feet white, has a few white hairs in her
forehead, and branded : on the near buttock. Posted,
and appraised to 9£. * DRURY WOODSON.
FOR SALE,
A VALUABLE tract of LAND in Kingston parish,
Gloucester county, containing 500 acres, lying on
a large creek which makes out of East river, a fine place
for fish and oysters; there is land cleared sufficient for six
hands, an overseer’s house and other out buildings; the
uncleared land abounds with a great quantity of white
oak and pine timber, the timber supposed, by good
judges, to be worth 1000£.
*3 WILLIAM PLUMMER.
WILLIAMSBURG. April, 20, 1774.
BY order of his Excellency in council, I hereby give
notice to all concerned, that those officers and soldiers
who served in the late war as RANGERS, or as part
of the militia, will not, as such, be allowed, in future,
any land under his Majesty’s proclamation in OCTOBER
1763; but those only who were either in the regular
service, or else in some provincial regiment.
JOHN BLAIR, Cl. Con.
FOR SALE, and to be seen in Williamsburg, from
the first of May and for some time after, the high
blooded horse MASTER STEPHEN; he is young,
strong, and large, has a good bottom, and runs fast.
Whoever may be inclinable to know his pedigree, or to
see him, may be satisfied by applying to Philip L. Lee,
at his house in Williamsburg. 3
FOR SALE,
And to be ENTERED upon at CHRISTMAS next,
A VERY valuable tract of LAND in King William
county, on Pamunkey river, adjoining the land of
the late Mr. John Smith, of Hanover county, deceased,
containing 800 acres, more or less, the soil is very rich,
and exceedingly well adapted for wheat, corn or tobacco,
particularly the first and second, being low grounds;
and there is a considerable quantity of high grounds.
It has plenty of good pine and oak timber upon it, con-
venient houses, and is in good order for cropping, is
about two miles from Hanover town, and very convenient
to church and two mills. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may be shewn the land by applying to Mr. Christo-
pher Taliaferro, or Mr. William Jones, who resides near
the same and the terms may be also known by applying
to these gentlemen, or to the subscriber.
t f THOMAS JONES.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at Goochland court-
house, on Monday the 20th of June, being court day,
A TRACT of rich, well timbered LAND, lying
opposite to Elk Island, in Goochland county, be-
longing to the estate of Mr. John Smith, deceased, con-
taining 2000 acres, which will be put up in four separate
lots. Likewise a tract containing between 3 and 400
acres, lying on both sides of the Little Bird creek, near
the head thereof, in the aforesaid county. Those lands
having been fully described in a former advertisement
renders it unnecessary here. The time of payment will
be made known on the day of sale, and bonds, with good
security, required of the purchasers.
9 WILLIAM ANDERSON, executor.
*** The purchasers at the different sales of the negroes
and personal estate of Joseph and John Smith, deceased,
are desired to take notice, that their bonds will in a very
short time become payable, and that no indulgence can
or will be allowed to any person. I shall constantly at-
tend at the county courts of Henrico and Hanover, and
the meeting of merchants in Williamsburg, in order to
receive payment. Those who have open accounts on
the books of John Smith, deceased, are once more re-
quested to come and settle.
TAKEN up, in King and Queen county, a sorrel
horse, about 4 feet 7 inches high, appears to be
about 5 years old, has a snip on his nose, no brand per-
ceivable, trots and gallops, and appraised to 12£.
* MARY ANDERSON.
The noted swift HORSE
TRISTRAM SHANDY,
(now, perhaps, the fattest horse in VIRGINIA)
STANDS at my house, in the lower end of Caroline
county, and covers mares this season at 2£. 10s.
good pastureage gratis, and great care taken of the mares,
but will not be answerable for any that may get away.
TRISTRAM SHANDY was got by Morton’s Traveller,
his dam by Janus, out a very fine English mare.
5 JAMES UPSHAW.
To be SOLD, together or in parcels,
THAT fertile and well timbered tract of LAND,
lying in Princess Anne county, known by the name
of GIBBS’S WOODS, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stands seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Persons inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy, in
Williamsburg, who will give an undoubted title. tf
WILLIAMSBURG, MARCH 1, 1774.
THE several sheriffs in arrear for his Majesty’s
quitrents are requested to make full payment at the
ensuing April court; and as it is my duty to enforce a
speedy collection of this revenue, it is hoped that those
against whom judgments have been already obtained will
attend to this notice.
RICHARD CORBIN, D. R. G.
For WHITEHAVEN,
THE ship OLIVE, Captain William Barrass, lies
at Broadways, on Appomattox, will sail early in
April, having three fourths of her cargo engaged can
take in about one hundred hogsheads of tobacco, on
liberty of consignment. For terms apply to Mr. Bolling
Stark, in Petersburg, or us at Norfolk.
GREENWOOD, RIUTSON, & MARSH.
KING HEROD
STANDS at Rosegill, and will cover mares at FOUR
POUNDS the season. Those who send mares must
send the money, otherwise they shall not be left. The
valuable qualities, and the pedigree, of this horse, are
sufficiently notorious.
RALPH WORMELEY, junior.
GODOLPHIN,
A FULL blooded horse, by FRARNOUGHT, out of
an imported mare, will stand this season at Mr.
Richard Taylor’s, near Petersburg, to cover mares, at
TWENTY SHILLINGS the leap, or THREE
POUNDS the season, payable in October next. Those
gentlemen who are inclined to send mares may be assured
that the greatest care will be taken of them; but I will
not be answerable for any that shall get away.
GEORGE BAYLOR.
ESSEX county, April 2, 1774.
IN consequence of the death of Mr. James Campbell of
Essex, who was acting attorney for Messieures John,
William, and James M’Call, M’Call and Elliott, and
M’Call, Elliott, and Snodgrass, in the business formerly
under the management of Mr. William Snodgrass, we
have received from his executors the books and papers of
said companies, and have put them into the hands of Mr.
James Gordon to collect. We therefore earnestly request
all indebted to those concerns to pay off immediately, as
no further indulgence can be given. Mr. James Gordon
will reside in Tappahannock, and will attend Essex,
Middlesex, Gloucester, and King and Queen courts.
ARCHIBALD M’CALL,
JOHN SNODGRASS.
6
May 12, 1774. SUPPLEMENT TO THE VIRGINIA GAZETTE. Number 418.
COLOGNE, February 22
BY letters received here from Kiow, in Russia
minor, the rebel Pugatschew continues his ex-
actions in the neighborhood of Ornbourg. He
massacres all the Russian subjects, but spares the
foreigners and peasants, in hopes of gaining
them over to his party. He has already ravaged the lines
of Sakaru, and depopulated the fortress which served
as barrier to that country; he has plundered the town of
Offa, and made incursion towards Moscow, and the op-
posite side towards Astracan. All the officers who fall
into his hands must enter into his service, or lose their
lives, most of whom prefer their honour to their life.
He intends to enter into Siberia, and it is easy to see
what he aims at , though we cannot get a fight of his
manifestness because the government takes all the pains
imaginable to suppress them, and they are besides written
in the language of the Nomades; a people whom he
endeavors to gain over to his interest by flattering
promises. The report of general Bibicow’s having join-
ed the rebels is without foundation.
PARIS, February 28. There has been an insurrection
at Tours, on account of the dearness of corn. Five or
six boats on the Loire have been pillaged, and the grain
with which they were loaded was carried off by the in-
habitants of several parishes in the neighborhood of
Tours, who had assembled for that purpose. Some bri-
gades of the marshalsea endeavoured in vain to oppose it.
Many persons were killed, and others wounded. The
lieutenant general of justice was thrown into the river
by the populace, but happily taken out alive. The court
being informed of this tumult, hath sent orders to the
regiment of Berry to march immediately to Tours, from
whence it happens to be at no great distance.
PROCEEDINGS of the HOUSE of COMMONS.
MARCH 7.
THE earl of Dartmouth presented to the house of
lords a message from his majesty, wherein his ma-
jesty was most graciously pleases to recommend to their
most serious consideration the late disturbances in Ame-
rica, particularly the unjustifiable outrages lately com-
mitted by the people of Boston; to which most gracious
message an humble address was immediately moved for
and ordered to be presented to his majesty by the lords
with while staves. Lord Dartmouth likewise presented
the house of peers several papers relative to the late
disturbances in America, which were ordered to be taken
into consideration on Thursday fe’ennight, and the lords
to be summoned.
This day lord North presented a message from his ma-
jesty to the house of commons, and desired leave to bring
it up. The members were all desired to be uncovered,
and it was read, setting forth, that of late several unhap-
py disturbances had arisen among his majesty’s subjects in
America; that he had ordered such papers as could be laid before
both house of parliament, hoping to have their assistance
in seeing the laws duly executed. Lord North then pre-
sented a bundle of papers respecting America, the heads
of which were read over, purporting to be letters to and
from the Massachusetts Bay, Boston, New Hampshire,
&c. letters from lord Barrington, lord Hillsborough
Mr. Grey, Cowper, &c. Mr. Rice moved, that an ad-
dress be presented to his majesty for his great goodness in
ordering his message and the American papers to be laid
before the house, and to assure his majesty that this faith-
ful commons would, without delay, exert every means
in their power to see the laws duly executed in America.
He prefaced his motion with a long account of the rise
and progress of the American rebellious proceedings,
and was much for using spirited measures to bring them
to a compliance. Lord C______re said he agreed with the
honourable gentleman, and hoped he should see this
measure carried through with unanimity; he should
therefore second the motion. Mr. Dowdeswell spoke
greatly against the propriety of measures that had been
heretofore adopted, and said, let those wise heads who
brought us into the trouble now extricate us. He was
very severe on administration throughout his whole
speech. Colonel Jennings said he would object to the
words every means, and should move an amendment, that
proper means. Mr. E_____is said nearly the same as
Mr. Rice, and was for spirited measures being used. Mr.
Edmund Burke desired his majesty’s speeches from 1768
to 1770, and the answers, might be read (all which tended
to America) and the last answer was nearly the same as
the present address proposed, setting forth, that his
faithful commons would, without delay, exert every
means, &c. He said he had looked carefully over the
journals, and could not find one measure that parliament
adopted that session, notwithstanding their promise to his
majesty; he should therefore be against their promising
again, unless he was sure they meant to perform. The
solicitor general said it was not right to recriminate on
persons that had done wrong heretofore; that the only
way to settle this business would be all to go about it
unanimously. Mr. Edmund Burke, in a speech of an
hour and a half, set forth the absurdity of the proceed-
ings concerning American affairs heretofore; saying,
were we to expect any good from the same person who
adopted those measures? He said we wanted a change of
governors both at home and abroad, and was extremely
severe on lord North and administration, and arraigned
the whole of their conduct. On recapitulating the whole
of the stampact, he said, before they presented their ad-
dress, promising to redress evils, it would be more parli-
amentary to enquire whthr those abuses existed. As to
recriminating, it was very proper, as we might then see and
learn from experience, what good might be produced
Lord G_____ne said, in his opinion, our repealing the
stampact had made the Americans think we had no right
to tax them, and in a great measure was the cause of our
misfortunes. Mr. Edmund Burke replied to him. Ge-
neral Conway set forth the nature of the proceedings
heretofore, and said, in his opinion, had the stampact
not been repealed, we should entirely have lost America.
He said, we must now come to a resolution, either to tax
or not tax America. In his opinion, we had no right to
tax them; that they were a loyal people, as might be
seen by their former conduct. Lord North said that the
time allotted for the reading of the press was Thurs-
day, but as there were more of them than the first ima-
gined, he had no objection to postponing the reading of
them until Friday next, and on Monday next to resolve
upon them. The motion concerning the address was
put and carried.
LONDON, March 10.
TWO methods are proposed to be laid before parlia-
ment in order to bring back the Americans to their
duty. One is to new model their several governments
and constitutions, the other to enforce the last act for
raising the revenue in its full and literal extent.
The lords of the admiralty have ordered ten vessels,
from 350 to 600 tons burden, to be taken up in the river
on government account.
Orders are dispatched to Ireland to prepare six regi-
ments to embark at a week’s notice.
It is said that some bomb vessels are ordered to be fitted
out to America.
We hear that the most vigorous measures are resolved
to be taken with the turbulent and refractory colonies.
Four regiments of foot are to be sent to Boston, and six
men of war are to block up the harbour.
It is whispered that the Bostonians are to have their
charter taken from them, and that they are to be made a
king’s government.
The 4th, 5th, 38th, and 43rd regiments, are destined
for America.
A letter from Petersburg, dated February 26, says:
”The report of a peace with the Thrks again prevails
here very strongly, and we have more reason to believe
the court will now adopt pacific measures by the grand
preparations which are making for the reception of a
plenipotentiary from Constantinople, who is daily expect-
ed here. An assertion gains much credit that the empe-
ror of Germany, together with the kinds of Prussia and
Sweden, will meet at this court in the month of June
next, when the armistice with the Ottoman porte will be
finally settled, and the affairs of Poland undergo a new
arrangement."
They write from Constantinople that the Ottomans
have a most pleasing prospect under the reign of the new
sultan. He is about 53 years of age, and has spent the
most of his time in study. He is master of several
languages and sciences, and he has translated Belisarius
(of the celebrated Monsieur de Marmontel) into the
Arabic. His particular study is natural philosophy, in
which science they say he has wrote several works. He
has likewise an extensive knowledge in politics and the
art of war; in short, they assert that there never was
before such a learned man upon the Ottoman throne.
A letter from Petersburg, dated February 4, says:
The beginning of last month general Ribicow set out,
at the head of 15,000 men, against the rebels in the Oron
bourg government, and, in order to hasten his march,
he put his whole army into sledges; officers, soldiers, ar-
tillery, and provisions.. They filled 20,000 sledges, and
set out with the usual velocity of those conveyances to
the music of the whole army. They had 500 miles to
go before they arrived at their journey’s end.
Letters from Stockholm advise that the king of Sweden
intends to make a tour in the approaching summer to
Petersburg, in order to pay a visit to the empress. But
most persons think, if it takes place, something more is
intended than a mere visit.
When the last letters left Cadiz there were in that port
eight ships of the line, two frigates, and a number of
other vessels, with their sails bent all ready for sailing.
Yesterday the following bills received the royal assent,
by virtue of a commission from his majesty, viz. The
bill for allowing the exportation of corn and grain, and
other articles, to his majesty’s sugar colonies in America,
and to explain the act to regulate the importation of
wheat, meal, malt, flour, rye, and barley, to Guern
sey, Jersey, Aldernsey, &c. the bill for punishing mutiny
and desertion in his majesty’s American dominions, and
for the better payment of the army and their quarters;
the bill for the regulation of his majesty’s marine forces
while on shore; the bill for reducing the duties payable
upon the exportation of gum senaga; the bill for allow-
ing the free importation of salted beef, pork, butter,
and bacon, from Ireland.
A plan has been proposed for suppressing all the royal
plates given for the encouragement of running horses
throughout the kingdom, as this particular breed of ani-
mals is without use, and too often tends to the destruction
of the first families of the kingdom.
It is now talked that all the old guineas will be called
in, and that such of this king’s as were of a prior date to
1766 will be received by the revenue officers at their full
value, and that the loss will not fall on individuals, but
the public at large.
Advice is received, by a Dutch ship from Batavia, that
the Spaniards had lost at Manilla, in the months of Sep-
tember and October last, upwards of three thousand
persons of both sexes by an epidemic flux, which was not
quite abated when the letters came away.
On Friday morning, about one o’clock, lord Stanley
and his brother coming in a post chaise and four from
Chelsea to town, were stopped by four footpads, two of
whom seized the horses, and put pistols to the breasts of
the postilions; the other two went on each side of the
carriage, and presenting their pistols, were resisted by the
houourable Mr. Stanley, whom one of the villains fired
at, on which lord Stanley seized the man on his side by
the arm, and wounded him on the back of the head with
a seymetar. The two ruffians at the heads of the horses,
then went to the assistance of their comrades, when the
postilions driving furiously on, the nobleman and his
brother escaped unhurt, though one of the villains fired
a second pistol.
Thursday a young man of genteel address was appre-
hended at a public house in the city, on a charge of
marrying nine wives in less than four years, who are all
now living, and with each of whom he had a fortune.
March 12. The general opinion seems to be that the
Bostonians will be punished with a deprivation of their
charter, and the burthen of a military establishment, for
their late proceedings.
Letters from Petersburg advise, that it has been de-
clared at court that the grand duchess is pregnant.
Last Thursday died, on his way to Bristol, of a con-
sumption, in the 25th year of his age, William Monck-
ton Arundel, viscount Galway, and baron of Killord,
in Ireland, member of parliament for the county of Pon-
tesract. He is succeeded in title and estate by his brother
Robert, who was born August 28, 1772.
An express was sent on Thursday night from the ad-
miralty office to Portsmouth, with orders for fitting for
sea immediately several frigates, which are intended to
go with the men of war already appointed for the Ame-
rican station.
Extract of a letter from Vienna, dated February 23.
”We find the greatest part of our troops are march-
ing with the utmost expedition towards the Turkish fron-
tiers. The death of the grand signior seems to be very
advantageous to the house of Austria; for as it will be
impossible for the Turks to maintain a war against the
emperor and Russia, they will be obliged to restore to the
emperor all the provinces that have been wrested from
the house of Austria in former wars; and we are infom-
ed that the emperor is resolved not to renew the truce
until all these provinces are restored. But as the present
sultan is known to have an uncommon inclination for
war, our court has taken the precaution to put their
troops and fortresses in the best situation. We hear that
the grand signior is to take the chief command of his ar-
mies himself, his highness having declared, that at this
juncture, when nothing less than the fate of the Ottoman
empire is depending, he can trust no person with that
important post
Resolutions are forming to encourage, in the most effec-
tual manner, the different fisheries in Scotland and Ireland.
They write from Modavia that the Turkish grand
army has been augmented with 45,000 men since the
Russians repassed the Danube, and that the troops are
obliged to exercise every day, though in winter quarters.
A letter form the Hague says: “The proposal for an
augmentation of the marine and land forces is deferred
sine die.”
By a letter from Hamburg we are informed that orders
have just been issued in the electorate of Hanover to re-
gister every man that is able to bear arms. They add,
that the same is done upon the whole continent, and that
a French army is assembling near the Rhine in an invisi-
ble manner. This intelligence may be depended on.
The king of Denmark, by advice of his college of
economy and commerce, has promised a reward of 50
rix dollars to any one of his subjects who shall fabricate
the best piece of work in imitation of that called Man-
chester velvet.
The lord chancellor has made an order that the com-
missioners of bankrupts do, where a person that becomes
a bankrupt more than once, enquire very particularly into
the cause of such failure, and the time since he was a
bankrupt before, and certify the same to him; his lord-
ship being determined, where there shall appear the least
fraud, not to grant a certificate.
WILLIAMSBURG, MAY 12.
To his excellency the right honourable JOHN earl of
DUNMORE, his majesty’s lieutenant and governor
general of the colony and dominion of Virginia, and
vice admiral of the same.
The humble address of the COUNCIL.
MY LORD,
WE his majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects the
council of Virginia, now met in general assembly,
beg leave to return your excellency our most cordial
thanks for our speech at the opening of this session, and
to acknowledge, that your lordship, as well upon this as
every other occasion, since the commencement of your
administration, hath consulted the ease and convenience
of the people committed to your care.
To promote the service of his majesty, and to advance
the interest of our country, every have been the first objects
of our wishes. Actuated by these motives, we will con-
cur with the house of burgesses in framing such laws as
shall be for the welfare and true interest of this colony,
and with that dispatch the importance of the subjects
will admit of.
Permit us to take this opportunity of congratulating
your excellency on the safe arrival of the countess of
Dunmore and your family in this country; an event,
which, while it adds greatly to your lordship’s domestic
felicity, gives us a pleasing earnest of our intention of
continuing among us.
To which his excellency was pleased to return the
following ANSWER.
Gentlemen of the council,
THE faithful and united assistance, which I have con-
stantly received of you, fully convinces me of your
zeal for his Majesty’s service, as well as of your firm
regard to the interests of your country, and makes this
fresh declaration of both extremely grateful to me, as it
must be likewise to your sovereign and country.
I thank you very heartily for your kind congratulation
on the arrival of my family; the happiness of which will
increase to me as it proves more agreeable to you, from
whom I have received every mark of regard and attention.
To his excellency the right honourable JOHN earl of
DUNMORE, his majesty’s lieutenant and governor
general of the colony and dominion of Virginia, and
vice admiral of the same.
The humble address of the HOUSE of BURGESSES.
My LORD,
WE his majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the
burgesses of Virginia, now met in general assem-
bly, beg leave to return your excellency our unfeigned
thanks for your kind speech at the opening of this session.
Sensible as we are of the importance of that variety of
business, which will probably come before us, we shall
esteem it our bounden duty to proceed in the discussion
of it with coolness, deliberation, and as much dispatch,
as circumstances will admit; and we flatter ourselves
that every resolution, we may find it expedient to adopt,
will be marked with that prudence and moderation,
which you are pleased to recommend.
The fatherly attention of our most gracious sovereign
to the happiness of his subjects, in making the good of
his people the first object of his thoughts, cannot but im-
press our minds with the liveliest sense of duty and gra-
titude; and it is with great satisfaction that we receive
from your excellency those earnest assurances, that you
will heartily concur with us in all measures, and assent
to all such laws, as shall be for the welfare and true in-
terest of this country.
It will ever, my lord, afford us much pleasure to ob-
serve and increase of your domestic felicity; we there-
fore, with the greatest cordiality, embrace this first op-
portunity to congratulate your excellency on the happy
arrival of the right honourable the Countess of DUN-
MORE, your lordship’s amiable and most respectable lady,
with so many promising branches of your noble family;
an event which we consider as having brought with it
the surest pledges of our mutual happiness.
To which his Excellency was pleased to return the
following ANSWER:
Gentlemen of the House of Burgesses,
THE terms of duty and gratitude in which your loyal
address is conceived afford me the highest satisfaction,
and must ensure his majesty’s most favourable countenance
and protection to this faithful colony.
I shall ever retain a cordial remembrance of the parts
you take in my domestic happiness, and of your obliging
manner of expressing it on the occasion of the arrival of my
family, which event I shall be much pleased to find con-
sidered as a pledge of my regard and attachment to this
country.
WILLIAM and MARY college, May 10, 1774.
I INTEND to leave this colony shortly.
EMMANUEL JONES, jun.
BY AUTHORITY.
At the theater in Williamsburg, on Monday, Wednesday,
and Friday evenings next,
THE noted BAYLY will exhibit his grand medley
of ENTERTAINMENTS (Delactando,
Pariterque, Monendo) consisting of sundry curious per-
formances by DEXTERITY of HAND, inter-
spersed with moral and entertaining LECTURES on
the art of deception and force of credulity, with the
tragical, comical, farcical, operational, whimsical humours
of Seignior PUNCHINELLO, and his artificial company
of comedians, 4 feet high, richly dressed &c. by whom
will be performed a play and farce, with sundry drolls.
Between the parts sundry prologues and epilogues, and
the humours of MERRY ANDREW, with an ad
dress to everybody, by somebody,
in character of nobody. To conclude with a grand piece
of machinery, 15 feet square, representing the sea in its
natural motion, with fish of all kinds and sea monsters,
ships sailing, boats rowing, troops landing, &c. &c. With
the regular siege of the Havannah by the British ships of
war and troops, and regular firing from the ships, forts
and batteries, till victory be obtained; with good scenes
and decorations, warlike and soft musick, &c. &c. Boxes
3s. 9d. Pit 2s. 6d. Gallery 1s. 6d. Children under 10
half price. Ladies and gentlemen may be assured the
strictest regularity, decency, and decorum, will be ob
served throughout the whole performance.
Vivant Rex & Regina
For SALE,
THE improved SQUARE of LOTS
adjoining the lots belonging to Mr.
E. DEANE, coachmaker in PALACE street, Williamsburg. JOHN TAZEWELL,
esquire, of this city, is empowered to sell.
If the purchaser, or purchasers, do not
pay ready money, his bond, with approved
securities, made payable to ROBERT CAR-
TER, will be satisfactory. tf
RUN away, from Neabico furnace, the 16th of
March, a light coloured mulatto man named
BILLY, or WILL, the property of the houourable
John Tayloe, esquire. When I tell the public that he
is the same boy who for many years used to wait on me,
in my travels through this and the neighboring pro-
vince, and by his pertness, or rather impudence, was
well known to all my acquaintances, there is the less
occasion for a particular description of him. However,
as he is now grown to the size of a man, and has not at-
tended me for some time past, I think it not amiss to say
that he is a very likely young fellow, about 20 years
old, 5 feet 9 inches high, stout and strong made, has a
remarkable swing in his walk, but is much more so by a
surprising knack he has of gaining the good graces of
almost every body who will listen to his bewitching and
deceitful tongue, which seldom or ever speaks the truth.
He has a small scar on the right side of his forehead, and
the little finger of his right hand is quite straight by a
hurt he got when a child. Had on, when he went away,
a blue fearnought jacket, and an under one of green
baize, cotton breeches, oznabrig shirt, mixed blue sale
stockings, country made shoes, and yellow buckles.
From his ingenuity, he is capable of doing almost any
sort of business, and for some years past, has been chiefly
employed as a founder, a stone mason, and a miller, as
occasion required; one of which trades, I imagine, he
will, in the character of a free man, profess. I have
some reason to suspect his travelling towards James river,
under the pretence of being sent by me on business.
Whoever apprehends the said fellow, and brings him to
me, or to his master, the honourable John Tayloe, at
Mountairy, or secure him so as to be had again, shall
have treble what the law allows, and all reasonable
charges paid. tf THOMAS LAWSON.
THE subscriber intending to settle over the mount-
tains makes him offer his lands in Amelia for sale.
There are near 800 acres (a little more than 100 of
which ae subject to a widow’s dower) with a very good
dwellinghouse, and all necessary house, lately repaired,
with an extraordinary fine apple and peach orchard of
the best kind of fruit; cherries of all sorts. There are
near 100 acres of low ground very suitable for a meadow,
near 100 acres of low ground very suitable for a meadow,
on which is a great abundance of fine timber. The
purchaser may know the terms by applying to Joseph
Eggleston, in Amelia, adjoining the said land, Richard
Eggleston, in Cumberland county, or the subscriber, in
the county of Frederick. WILLIAM EGGLESTON.
To the CLERGY of VIRGINIA.
REVEREND SIRS,
THINKING this a very proper season for taking
into consideration certain matters in which the
clergy are most immediately and deeply concerned, and
finding several of my brethren, whose opinions have
great weight with me, to be very confident, that if our
whole body should be desired to meet, they would not
at this time shew a general backwardness to honour the
request, I have come to a resolution of appointing, and
do accordingly appoint, the Thursday after Whitsunday
for the clergy to convene upon at the college of William
and Mary. When the day appointed comes, I hope
those who advised me to this measure will with me enjoy
the satisfaction of finding their expectations fully an-
wered by being able to assemble with a very respectable
number of their fraternity on an occasion which they as
well as I deem important. I am, with ardent prayers
for your real welfare, and the good of the community,
reverend gentlemen, your loving and affectionate bro-
ther, JOHN CAMM.
COLLEGE, May 5, 1774.
Just Imported from LONDON, and sold by the
subscriber, at her store opposite the Raleigh
inWilliamsburg,
A WELL chosen assortment of the neatest GOODS,
consisting of fine thread and blond lace, white
sattin and lustring, blue sattin and sarsnet petticoats,
white ditto for weddings, sattin and queen silk shoes,
muslin, gauze, catgut, and wire, worked linen, ribbands,
plain and ribbed, silk, cotton, and thread stockings, small
ditto for children, patent net aprons, equal in beauty to
joining lace, silk gloves and mits, roles and curls, tam-
bour sword knots, boys beaver and hussar caps, ladies
riding hats, feathers, and whips, childrens sashes and
stays, a large quantity of Didsbury shoes, sheneel, fine
chip and cane hats, fans, cloaks, gauze handkerchiefs,
purses, bags, and puffs, purl for work, tureen, pump,
and pap ladles, stone, silver, gilt and pinchbeck, both
shoe and knee buckles, paste, garnet, gold, and black,
stock ditto, India plate salts, ditto snuffers and snuffpans,
silver teaspoons, teatongs, and saltshovels, ditto coral
and bells, paste, marcasite, pearl, and bead, necklaces
and earrings, gold wires, silver bowed scissars, and silver
tipped sheaths, lancet cases, watch chains and keys,
combs, pocketbooks, and etwee cases, freemason and
other broaches, paste sprigs and pins, tooth brushes, fine
Irish wafers, sword canes, and penknives, black bags
and roses, black pins, stay hooks, thimbles, silver shoe
clasps, fruit knives, dolls and other toys, with many
other articles too numerous to insert; all to be sold on
reasonable terms, for ready money only, by
C. RATHELL.
At the same place my be had an exceeding fine
SILVER WATCH, capped, which runs on diamonds,
and a GOLD WATCH, with gold hands, and an en-
graved case.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at Henrico court-
house, in Richmond on Monday the 6th of June,
THE TENEMENT lately occupied by Mr. James
Buchanan on part of which Byrd’s warehouses
now stand. It may, with convenience, be divided into
three separate tenements, one of which will include a
very good dwellinghouse, kitchen, smokehouse, dairy,
and a garden under good paling. The second will in-
clude a very good brick store, a large commodious lum-
berhouse, and the reversion of Byrd’s warehouses. The
third joins the lands of Colonel Thomas Turpin, where-
on are the houses now in the tenancy of Mess. Trents and
Mr. Powell. There is a good stable on this lot, and a
large new house that may, at a small expence, be con-
verted into a dwellinghouse, or store. The situation of
these lots, and convenience to the houses, will sufficiently
recommend them to those who view them. They will
be sold together or separately, which ever shall appear
most advisable. Half of the money to be paid at or
before the meeting in November next, and the remainder
by the first of May, 1775. The bonds to bear interest
from the date, unless the agents of Mess. James and
Robert Donald, and company, should agree upon other
terms on the day of sale. Any person inclining to pur-
chase may be shown the premises, and know the terms at
large, by applying to Mr. James Buchanan.
JAMES MILLER.
All those indebted to the said Mess. James and
Robert Donald, and company, for dealings with Mr.
James Buchanan at their stores in Richmond, Albermarle,
and Amherst, are once more requested to make speedy
payment; and as many accounts are yet standing open,
particularly at their store in Richmond, those concerned
are desired to close the same immediately, otherwise
longer indulgence cannot be given.
Just imported, and to be sold by the subscriber,
ON VERY REASONABLE TERMS,
A GENTEEL assortment of MILLUNERY, in the
newest taste. Mecklin, Bursselss, and minionet lace,
blond ditto, a variety of white and coloured silks, plain,
striped, and sprigged muslins, jewellery, childbed linen,
robes, ladies and gentlemens silk and cotton hose, Dids
bury’s shoes, Gresham’s sattin and calamanco ditto, ladies
black and white riding hats, and many other articles.
WILLIAMSBURG,
May 4, 1774. J. CHARLTON.
THE treasurer, trustees, and subscribers, to the fund
for the relief of the widows and orphans of clergy-
men, collected last Sunday from the two audiences
25l. 14s. 5d. for which they beg leave to return their
thanks to the generous contributors. On the day fol-
lowing they ordered 80l. to be distributed among six wi-
dows, and the orphans of four clergymen, and appointed
officers for the ensuing year, namely, the reverend Mess.
John Camm, treasurer, Price Davis, Devereaux Jarratt,
William Bland, John Bracken, Thomas Price, and
Thomas Lundie, trustees; William Harrison morning,
and Robert Andrews evening preacher.
The clergy have a most grateful sense of the presents
of 20l. and 3l. 2s. 6d. from two unknown persons, by the
hands of the reverend Mr. Henley. This acknowledg-
ment would have been made last year had not the said
charitable contribution come some days too late to be
inserted in our last year’s advertisement.
THE subscriber, in Gloucester, has for sale, a few
hogsheads of good OLD RUM; also a few pipes
and hogsheads of OLD MADERIA WINE, of the
London and New York quality.
2 JOHN SEWALL.
To be SOLD, on the premises, on the third Thursday
in June next,
THE very profitable ORDINARY, belonging to the
subscriber, at King William courthouse, with 600
acres of very valuable LAND adjoining to it. The place
is so well known that it is unnecessary to describe it, or
to point out the advantage of its situation, which is so
central that it is daily resorted by travelers from all
parts; so that it has constant custom. The ordinary,
and some small tenements on the land, have rented for
170l. a year, or
more. The purchaser may have possession the first day
of November next, and is to pay one fifth of the pur-
chase money that day, and one other fifth annually after,
until the whole is satisfied. Bond, with good security,
for the payment thereof, must be given to the subscriber,
who will treat privately with any person inclined to pur-
chase the day of sale. JOHN QUARLES.
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 endeavor 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.
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 bult, with a
stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILL-
STONES, which mill ha for two years past got up-
wards 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, it 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. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probable we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
FOR SALE,
SEVERAL valuable tracts of LAND, adjoining each
other, or both sides of Chappawamsick Run, in the
counties of Stafford and Prince William, containing 2600
acres, being the seat whereon the subscriber formerly re-
sided. These lands are situate four miles above Aquia
warehouses, and four miles below the town of Dumfries,
the soil of more than half or it exceeding good; there is
on it as fine a mill seat as any in the colony, upon a large
and never failing stream. There is a great appearance
of iron ore, and a large quantity of white oak and pine
timber, a tolerable commodious dwellinghouse, a great
number of convenient outhouses, good orchards, and
several tenements in order for cropping. There are also
200 acres of fine meadow ground, half of which was
sowed in timothy last fall and this spring. A more par-
ticular description will be unnecessary, as it is presumed
that any person inclinable to purchase will view the pre-
mises; and the subscriber earnestly entreats all such to
form their ideas of the value of this estate from their own
observations, and not from any accounts they may receive
from others, as there are some persons, who are thought
good natured, worthy men, amuse themselves with de-
crying the property of their neighbors, even at the
expence of truth, and under the mask of friendship to
the person injured. And the subscriber is more parti-
cular in this caution, as he hath formerly received several
severe injuries of that kind from one in that neighbour-
hood. The above lands are under the incumbrance of
two mortgages; the one for a considerable sum, made
by the subscriber himself, the other for an inconsiderable
sum, made by the person of whom he purchased one of
the small tracts, which mortgages are to be first pad out
of the money arising from the sale. For terms apply to
THOMSON MASON.
FOR SALE,
THE public STOREHOUSE in that part of the town
of Richmond called Shockoes, rented at fifteen
pounds a year; the two half acre lots, No. 400 and
No 670, in the same town; the valuable lot of one hun-
dred acres of timbered and, near the same, known by the
description of No. 799; also the two half acre lots, No.
116 and No. 267, in the town of Manchester or Rocky
Ridge, on the south side of the falls of James river. For
terms apply to Joshua Storrs of Richmond, or the sub-
scriber. TOMSON MASON.
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately,
A TRACT of LAND containing 1300 acres, more
or less, on Pianketank river, in Gloucester county.
It is needless to be particular about it as it is the same I
advertised last year and then gave a full account of it,
since then I sold it to John Attaway Clarke, of Maryland<
but as he refuses to take it, necessity obliges me once more
to offer it to the public. Any persons inclinable to pur-
chase may know the terms by applying to me in Mid-
dlesex. I want part of the money at the meeting of the
merchants, and for the remainder I will give reasonable
credit. tf AUGUSTINE SMITH
THE
VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
THURSDAY, MAY 19, 1774. NUMBER 419.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3s. the first Week,
and 2s.each Time after; long ones in Proportion.----PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
From the PUBLIC ADVERTISER.
To the EARLof DARTMOUTH.
My LORD,
A discovery is made, by letters under their own hands,
that the governor and lieutenant governor had been se-
cretly labouring to subvert the chartered rights of the
colony, to subject the people to arbitrary government,
and subdue them by military force. It appeared, that to
acc omplish these ends, they had painted the proceedings
of the people in the most false and odious colours; for-
going falsehoods where misrepresentation would not suffice.
All this was conducted under the cloak of secret and
confidential correspondence, that the mischief might
come upon them unforeseen, the causes unknown, and
the authors undiscovered. The people were to be the
victims of a secret information; they were to be con-
demned without being heard, and punished with the
heaviest of all calamities, the loss of their rights and li-
berties, without being apprized of the accusation, or a
possibility of defence.
The persons who planned and executed this atrocious,
and (for upon principle it cannot be deemed less) this
treasonable conspiracy against the constitution, stipulated
their expectations of a reward.
It was natural that this discovery should exasperate the
people to an extreme. They saw, in the persons of those
who were thus planning their destruction, men bound to
them by all ties of fellow citizens, and the obligations
of gratitude; men who had been long cherished, trusted,
and honoured among them, and who had always pro-
sessed the most zealous attachment, which virtue and
gratitude could inspire, to their rights and interests.
This was more especially the case of their chief governor,
who was, at that very time, practising every art to fix in
the minds of the people an exalted opinion of his warmest
affection for them, and of us unremitting endeavours to
promote their best interests at the court of Great Britain.
They saw besides in the mode of this attempt against them
something peculiarly malignant. The ministry were
sufficiently disposed to adopt every severity again them.
Governor Bernard and the commissioners were sufficient
to keep up their prejudices and passions. To poison the
minds of those in opposition, and by that means to deprive
the people of every benefit, either from the efforts of that
opposition, or from a change of administration, was the
diabolical plan of Mr. Hutchinson and Mr. Oliver.
Had the popular indignation been followed by the most
immediate and tragical consequences no one could have
been surprised. Happily, however, the very men whom
the governors had aspersed as the sowers of sedition and
promoters of outrage, prevailed upon them to trust to his
majesty’s justice for redress. For this purpose the house
ofrepresentatives have , in humble petition, implored his
majesty’s intervention to remove these men, because they
have lost all trust and confidence with the people. It is
this prayer to which you are now to advise an answer.
It is well worth considering, my lord, what will be
the consequence of an ungracious, irritating answer. For
some years past the people of America, and those of Bos-
ton in particular, have been abused, misrepresented, and
oppressed, beyond the example of the world of times.
They have seen, for a series of years, every representation
against them received, every application for them reject-
ed. When the authors of the secret informations, which
tended to bring upon them the displeasure of their sove-
reign, the resentment of parliament, and to subvert their
liberties, were providentially discovered, and their re-
presentations proved false and wicked; the consequence
has invariably been the encouragement and reward of
those so detected. The discovery of governor Bernard’s
false and malignant letters, with the frauds he committed
in his office, served only to make him a baronet with
what is equivalent to an enormous pension. Mr. Oiver
was charged upon the oaths of several of his majesty’s
council, and by their unanimous resolution, with a most
dangerous breach of trust, in having forged minutes of
their board, and authenticated them on oath, for the
purpose of justifying a massacre committee by a licentious
soldiery, and to throw the blame of it upon the people.
What was the consequence? Not punishment, but pro-
motion. The people saw, with astonishment and horror,
this very man, thus stigmatized,* immediately promoted
to be lieutenant governor.
These are facts, my lord, of public notoriety; they
are facts, which, speaking to stones, would make them
capable. Rewards have followed crimes as constantly as
light the sun. Promotion and emolument in American
have been exactly proportioned to mens perfidy to the
people, and their avowed enmity to their immediate coun-
*See proceedings in his majesty’s council at BOSTON,
October 4, 1770.
try. No people can be so dull as not to feel these inju-
ries; no people can be so pusillanimous as not to resent
them. Reiterated oppressions, detections, complaints,
and disappointments, hkave worked up mens minds to the
highest pitch of resentment and despair. The measure
is now full; one drop more may make the waters of bit
terness overflow, to the destruction of the most valuable
commerce of this county, and the irreparable injury of
the whole dominion.
The people of the Massachusetts Bay have asked hum-
bly, and waited patiently, for justice, against Mr. Hut-
chinson and Mr. Oliver. That the tax was artfully
thrown in to irritate and incense them to violence was
not their fault. Infamous, inimical, and odious, as the
governors have rendered themselves, they have been
suffered to sleep in security. A confidence in his majesty’s
justice, a hope that the eyes of his ministers would be at
length opened, have suspended their resentment. In my
opinion, my lord, this is the last effort of expectation
and endurance.>/p>
I have not yet heard a denial or publication of the
letters upon which their petition is founded. But it has
been said that the letters cannot be admitted as evidence
unless the manner in which they were obtained be de-
clared. This rule of evidence is the first impression,
and as rational as it is new. We ought to at least to be told
in what book of evidence it is to be found; in what court,
in what case, it was ever urged or admitted. The North
Britons have kindly undertaken to reprint and correct
our books; perhaps it is it is to be found in some Scotch ed-
tions of our law books and reports. New modelling our
law has been long the favourite object of our smiling
friends from that quarter.
Governor Hutchinson has acknowledged, in his answer
to an address from the council, that some of the letters
bear his signature; they stand therefore as matter of re-
cord, the verity of which cannot be affected by the man-
ner in which they were obtained. Not that I have heard
it even insinuated by an reputable person that they were
procured by any undue means. It seems, therefore, that
the objection is not that they were unfairly obtained, but
that idle, perhaps impertinent, curiosity is not gratified
by knowing how they were procured.
When a noble lord, for so his patent obliges me to call
him, produced the essay on woman in the house of peers,
was any enquiry made into the manner of procuring it?
On the contrary, thought it was soon proved that the
mode of obtaining it was in violation of all honesty and
good faith, did not both houses of parliament proceed to
the severest censure, and the court of king’s bench to the
heaviest judgement, against the ostensible author upon the
evidence of that essay so sagaciously obtained? And are
we now to be told that the malefactions of Mr. Hutchin-
son and Mr. Oliver shall escape punishment upon this
pretence?
I have dwelt too long upon an objection utterly con-
temptible, and which, but for the high and dangerous
tendency of it, would not merit a moment’s consideration.
My lord, the single question is, whether men, who
have rendered themselves universally obnoxious to the
people, shall be continued in authority over them? To
determine in the affirmative is to set the sentiments of
the people at defiance. Is there any man so wicked as
to wish, or so weak as to expect, that a government,
conducted on such principles, would be secure or lasting?
The folly of government may be sometimes forgiven; its
injustice never. But when folly and injustice unite, it
must be odious, weak, and contemptible. A little time,
my lord, will shew that government, in the hands of
obnoxious men, is too arbitrary, too inconsistent, with
the genius of the people. to be long endured. No rea
soning can reconcile them, nor force can subdue them,
to it. It is justice only that can endure submission; for
as judge Blackstone observes: “It is found by experience,
that whenever the unconstitutional oppression, even of
the sovereign power, advance, with gigantic strides, and
threaten desolation to a state, mankind will not be rea-
soned out of the feelings of humanity, nor will sacrifice
their liberty by a scrupulous adherence to those political
maxims, which were originally established to preserve it.”
My lord, an attempt to establish government in America
by military force, must be ultimately fatal to this coun-
try. It will commence in folly and injustice; it will end
in distress and humiliation.
RALEIGH.
Mrs. RIND,
It is a very common, and I believe, a very just com-
plaint, that the college of William and Mary hath
as yet been far from answering the ends of its institution,
and, indeed, those ends which might reasonably be ex-
pected from a college so well endowed. Superior in its
revenues to any literary establishment upon the continent,
it hath fallen greatly short of some of them as a seminary
of learning. To suppose that the gentlemen who have
been entrusted with the management of it have been al-
ways, in fault would certainly be very unfair. Many of
these, without doubt, have been both ably qualified and
heartily inclined to promote its good intention. But a
wrong mode of education, at the first adopted, and since
too blindly followed, together with an evil which the
professors had no power to remedy, seem to have frus-
trated all endeavours ot make it flourish. A grammar
school at the foundation of the college was annexed to
it, a measure with at that time might have been
dictated by the circumstances of the country, and the
low state of the funds, but which experience has since
taught us to be attended with many bad consequences.
Little or no distinction is made between the boys of this
school and the students of the college. Entitled to, or
at least indulged with, nearly the same privileges, the
former too soon forget that they are boys, and the latter
too seldom perceive that they have a superior character
to maintain. As this is not merely speculation, but real
matter of fact, it is surely worthy of the most serious
attention of the visitors. The revenues of the college
are now much encreased, the assembly has ever shewn a
willingness to assist it, and a large extent of country is
equally populaous, and equally well cultivated with that
in the neighbourhood of Williamsburg. What then is
there to prevent the visitors from removing the grammar
school to some of the college lands, at a distance from
the metropolis; for instance, to those in King William?
Every thing necessary for the accommodation of the boys
could there be easily procured, temptations to idleness
and vice would be less common, feeling none enjoy great-
er liberties than themselves, they would be satisfied with
their portion, nor would they languish for such as it
would be improper to grant them. Having completed
their classical education there, then let them be removed
to the college. This removal would create in them a
higher idea of the dignity of a student. They would
look upon themselves as entering upon a nobler scene of
action; a scene wherein puerility was to be exchanged for
the manly and philosophical life. I can easily foresee
that the step which I have proposed would meet with
opposition from those in and about the city of Williams-
burg. But if it be considered that this grammar school
was intended for the benefit of the public, and not of in-
dividuals, that by such a removal no general inconve-
nience could be produced, but that several good conse-
quences, as shewn above, would result from it, their
opposition must appear selfish and unreasonable.
The great imperfection in the present mode of educa-
tion seems to be this; that instead of a regular process in
their studies, the students are permitted, for the most
part, to attend what lectures they please, and in the or-
der most agreeable to themselves. That such a liberty
will put it into their power to waste much of their time is
very evident. For instance, a student chuses to attend
lectures upon natural philosophy. As these are not given
oftener than twice a week, he has four days entirely
at his own disposal. For these, it is true, he may find
sufficient employment, in making himself acquainted with
what different authors have said upon the immediate ob-
ject of his study; but he is under no obligation to do this.
If he is indolent, or vicious, or fond of pleasure, he has
it in his power to indulge himself. And thus, after
throwing away three of four of the most precious years
of his life, does many a youth quit the college with only
the< em>credit of having been so long there. Degrees have
been indeed lately conferred on some few students; and
from this it might be presumed, by a stranger, that these
at least had gone through a regular course of education.
This, however, as far as I have been able to learn, was
not the case. Some of them were acquainted with the
classics, others with the mathematics, others had attend-
ed lectures upon rhetoric and moral philosophy, but
none had run the general circle, none had been called to
an examination, previous to the conferring of this literary
honour upon them; a custom in all other colleges and uni-
versities. The impropriety of this mode of education is so
very apparent, that any farther demonstration of it would
be an insult upon the most common understanding.
An improvement upon the present plan would, I think,
require another professor, whose business it would be to
read with the students the higher classics, and to give
lectures upon chronology, geography, and history. Part
of this duty is at present expected from the moral pro-
fessor, but he has, exclusive of this, as much as he can
well perform; and these are branched of literature with
which every man of liberal education ought to be ac-
quainted.
The students should be divided into three classes,
which might be distinguished by the titles of seniors,
juniors, and freshmen. The qualifications of such as
enter the freshmen, or lower class, ought to be a good
acquaintance with the Latin and Greek school authors,
and with arithmetic. At their entrance into college,
they should begin with algebra, under the professor of
mathematics and natural philosophy, logic under the
moral professor, and Horace, Homer, or some other
classic, under the other, whom we will call the professor
of humanity. Euclid’s elements should succeed to alge-
bra, metaphysics to logic, and chronology and history
might be intermixed with the classics. This would be
ample employment for the first year. Let them then be
examined, and as many as are approved of raised into
the junior class. Such as are deficient, should be
obliged to remain amongst the freshmen another year.
The Juniors should begin with plain trigonometry, which
they might apply to surveying, then proceed to fluxions,
conic sections, and spherical trigonometry, which might
conclude the business of the second year in this depart-
ment. The same period, in the other two, should com-
prehend the study of moral philosophy, and of Cicero’s
moral works, with other Roman and Greek moralists.
Let them be again examined, and either preferred to the
senior class, or continued juniors, as they acquitted them-
selves. The study of natural philosophy and astronomy,
of rhetoric and the best English poets, of the Roman
and Grecian critics and orators, together with a general
review, should be the business of the third and last year
of their college education. Let, then, such as chuse to
stand for degrees, be examined by the professor, either
privately, or before a few of the visitors, in every branch
of academical learning. If they pass this with credit,
let a day be appointed for public examination, when
every one, who is inclined, may attend. Afterwards, it
may not be improper to fix a day for public exercises,
when each candidate may have an opportunity of dis-
playing his abilities as a writer and an orator. At the
conclusion of these exercises, let them be rewarded with
those honours which ought only to be conferred upon
the sons of science. These two last regulations, though
not absolutely necessary, would have their use: They
would give satisfaction to the country, raise the reputa-
tion of the college, and be a powerful incitement to the
youthful mind, which is ever fond of pomp and public
applause.
We are obliged to defer the remainder of ACADEMICUS
till next week.
Mrs. RIND,
DISAGREEABLE as it is to me to submit any thing
I can write to the examination of the public, and
painful as it is to arraign the conduct and religious prin-
ciples of a gentleman with whom I have so long lived in
a state of intimacy and friendship, yet justice to some
injured characters, a love of truth, and a regard for our
excellent establishment, demand that I should lay aside
the bashfulness of an author, and be deaf to the solici-
tations of friendship.
In vindication of the characters just mentioned, I must
declare, that I have head Mr. Henley frequently avow
the same opinions which Mrs. Nicholas affirmed to the
vestry she had heard him maintain; that the treasurer
advanced nothing, as my testimony, in his letter in Pur-
die’s paper of February the 24th, 1774, but what I had
authorized him to say, and that I authorized him to say
nothing but what I can prove. And further, I do de-
clare, in justice to Colonel Bland, that I have heard
Mr. Henley comment on some verses in the 1st chapter
of Hebrews in the very manner in which the socinians
explain them, and that I, as well as the colonel, from
that circumstance, concluded him a socinian: I think I
can prove that several others have heard Mr. Henley
make the same remarks on that chapter. As to some
insinuations that I have betrayed confidential conversations,
I shall just observe, that I have related nothing which he
has said to me in private, and declare, that he always
appeared to me to be fond of publishing his doctrines,
Had Mr. Henley trusted me alone with his religious te-
nets, had he not appeared to me to be desirous of propa-
gating them, I should have been far from desiring to
discover them to the world; had they been only volatile ex-
pressions, thrown out in the sallies of private and confi-
dential disputation, his character would have been un-
impeached, and I should not now be under the disagree-
able necessity of affirming that this was not the case.
Both truth and justice oblige me to take notice of Mr.
Henley’s gross misrepresentation of a matter of fact, and
of part of my testimony, in his pamphlet, page the 29th.
The fact was this: Mr. Henley once took occasion to say
something concerning the trinity, which Mr. Andrews
and myself, the only persons then present, thought, and
we still think, amounted to a denial of the divinity of the
son and holy ghost. I asked him if these were his sentiments
how he could “say the first sentences of the litany?” To
which he replied; that he did not read the sentences I
alluded to as they are commonly read; and then he at-
tempted to repeat them, so as by laying an emphasis on
some words, he might appear to exclude the idea of divi-
nity from being affixed to the words son and holy ghost in
those sentences. It is evident that the purport of my
question was, how he could deny thedivinity of two per-
sons of the adorable trinity,, and yet use that part of our
church service in which he must address each person ex-
presly as GOD; and it as clear, at least is to me, that by
his answer, he denied that he did pray to them as GOD.
The litany, and manner of reading it, were mentioned
as now related, and upon no other occasion; and yet
Mr. Henley represents this part of my testimony as
amounting to no more than a trifling dispute concerning
the manner of pointing and accenting the litany. Mr.
Henley’s manner of repeating the litany appeared
”strange” to me; it was new, and appeared to be a mi-
serable evasion, which at first I really could not well see
the force of; to explain which, and to confirm, in some
measure, this part of my testimony, I must beg leave to
insert here some extracts from the Gentleman’s Magazine
for January 1774. Theophilus Lindsey, vicar of Catte-
rick, Yorkshire, being dissatisfied with the
doctrine of the
trinity, and some of the thirty nine articles, and observ-
ing that “the devotions of the church are framed in strict
agreement with the articles, and correspond with them
more especially in what relates to religious worship, look-
ed upon his continuing to officiate in them as a constant
virtual repetition of his subscription.” He had applied
with the petitioners t parliament for relief in vain. “In
this state of things (says he) I had no choice left, but
either to change the public service of the church, and
make is such as I could conscientiously officiate in, or
quietly to retire. I could not reconcile myself to the
former, because I looked upon the declaration of con-
formity and subscription to be such solemn ties, that I
could not be easy under so great a violation of them.”
He therefore very conscientiously resigned his vicarage.
He says, in his agology,, that whilst he officiated, he
took this method to satisfy his mind: ”I brought myself
to consider the trinitarian form in the liturgy, and the
invocations of the entrance of the litany, as a threefold re-
presentation of the one God, the father, governing all
things by himself, and by his son, and his spirit; and as a
threefold way of addressing him, as Creator and original
benevolent cause of all things, as Redeemer of mankind
by his son, and their sanctifier by his holy spirit.” This
may explain what I meant when I fell into the odd
phraseology Mr. Henley points out in his pamphlet, page
28. But to shew that my construction on the manner of
his repeating the litany was just, I must make one more
extract from Mr. Lindsey’s apology: He says, he went
on in this manner, “till, from some providential awaken-
ings it appeared to me a blameable duplicity, that whilst
I was praying to the one God the Father, the people
that heard me were led, by the language I used, to ad-
dress themselves to two other persons, or distinct intelligent
agents, for they would never subtilize so far as to fancy
the son and holy spirit to be merely two modes, or re-
spects, or relations of God to them.
These extracts require no comment; but as Mr. An-
drews does not recollect what passed between Mr. Henley
and myself concerning the litany, I must observe that
they are a pretty good proof of the truth of my account
of that part of our conversation; for it must be observed
that I had given in my testimony to the treasurer before
Mr. Lindsey had published his apology in England.
But although Mr. Andrews (now the reverent Mr. An-
drews of York town) does not remember this, yet he re-
collects, what is so very material, that I have obtained
his permission to publish some extracts from a letter which
he wrote in answer to one of mine, in which I desired
him to give me an account of what passed between Mr.
Henley and us relating to the trinity. He says,”Mr.
Henley, after mentioning several parts of a religious
dispute which had happened between him and a gentle-
man in England, told us that the gentleman at last asked
him how he defended the doctrine of the trinity from
scripture, thinking (he said) to triumph over him in this
point. But herein (he said) the gentleman was disap-
pointed, as he assured him thathe himself did not believe
that the doctrine of the trinity was taught in the scriptures.
I remember that I was silent upon the occasion, and that
you made some short observation, which I have now
forgotten. I remember also that we changed the subject,
unwilling to hear more of what had so direct a tendency
to destroy that good opinion of Mr. Henley which we
were desiring of entertaining. As soon as Mr. Henley
left us, we communicated to each other our surprize at
his disbelief, especially to me, with whom he had an
acquaintance of but a few hours. I may perhaps be
mistaken in some circumstances, as almost three years
have since elapsed, and as our inclination was rather to
forget than to retain what we had heard; but with re-
spect to what was said concerning the TRINITY I have
no doubt.” Mr. Henley says, page 23, “It may perhaps
happen that I am impeached, nor for denying the doctrine
of the church, but the doctrine of Mr. Page.” I think
the above extracts will shew, pretty clearly, whose doc-
trine it was, and how far my “testimony is in Mr. Hen-
ley’s favour.” See his pamphlet, page 66.
I will make no farther remarks at present, lest I should
prove troublesome to you at this busy time, and engross
too large a part of your paper. I am, Madam, your
most obedient humble servant,
JOHN PAGE, of ROSEWELL.
AGREEABLE to the act of assembly for clearing
rivers and creeks, the court of Cumberland have
appointed commissioners to agree with any person or
persons, willing to undertake the clearing of Willis’s
river, in the said county. The subscribers give notice
that they will attend at Horn Quarter Bridge, on the
said river, on Thursday the ninth day of June, to let
to the lowest bidder the said work. Bond and security
will be required of the undertaker for the due perform-
ance of the same.
George Carrington, Thomas Tabb,
John Woodson, Robert Smith,
Joseph Calland, Joseph Carrington.
IN May, 1773, or near that time, I gave my bond to
John Reid, of Amherst county, for 125l. currency,
payable in April, 1774: I forewarn any person from
taking said bond of Reid, as I will not pay any of the
money till such time as the said Reid fulfils his bargain
with me, 2 CHARLES SIMS,
VIRGINIA, se.
At a general court, held at the capitol, the 7th day of
May, 1774. In CCHANCERY.
Philip Ludwell Grymes, son and heir of the honour-
able Philip Grymes, Esquire, deceased, and John
Grymes, Charles Grymes, and Benjamin Grymes,
the younger sons, and devisees of the said Philip
Grymes, plaintiffs, against
Benjamin Grymes, gentleman, one of the execu-
tors of the last will and testament of the said
Philip Grymes, deceased, defendants.
ON the motion of the plaintiffs, and for reasons ap-
pearing to the court, it is decreed and ordered
that the said defendant give sufficient security for his fu-
ture due and faithful administration of his said testator’s
estate, and that he be enjoined from intermeddling in
any manner or degree whatever with the said estate until
such security be given, or until the further order of this
court concerning the same. BEN:WALLER.
WILLIAMSBURG, May 19.
Last Saturday there fell a shower of hail in
Gloucester county, which did considerable damage to the
wheat. I several places there were hailstones as large
as goose eggs; many as large as hen eggs. In some
places, and particularly near Mr. Willis’s mill, the
earth was covered several inches deep with hail as large
as pistol bullets. The hail and rain fell together so vio-
lently there, that they filled the buckets of the wheel, and
set the mill to work, and carried round the works for a
considerable time with great velocity. The water in the
pond was not within a foot of the wheel, for the dam
had but lately been made up; and this fact Mr. Willis
and Mr. Peter Whiting, who had taken shelter in the
mill house, were witnesses of. This account is attested
by a gentleman of undoubted veracity. From several
other parts of the country we are informed, that the
hail was so large as to strip lusty trees of their leaves and
limbs, and also killed abundance of cattle, horses, hogs,
&c._____The wheat fields and meadows, says the same
correspondent, both in Gloucester and York, are terribly
infested with a kind of work or caterpillar. They have
done considerable mischief to the corn, and to the tobac-
co which has been planted.
As there was a probability that our sister colonies
might have received some late intelligence from England
respecting the proceedings of the parliament against
them, and as we are ever willing to convey any accounts
which may in any wise tend to benefit the public, and
guard them against the oppressive conduct of our enemies
at home, we reserved the publication of our paper until
the northern post should arrive, in hopes that we might
have presented our readers with the sentiments entertained
by the Bostonions, and in what manner they intended
to proceed; but, according to the papers from thence,
they have not received so late information as ourselves,
relative to this noisy and troublesome affair.
Arrived, the Liberty, Outram, in York river; Brilli-
ant, Bennet, from Glasgow, assistance, Fairish, from
Whitehaven, Nancy, Cunningham, from Hull, Success,
Green, from London, and Peggy, Sister, from Liver-
pool, in James river; Nassau, Wignell, and Molly,
Parry, from Liverpool, Neptune, Kennedy, from Glas-
gow, and Muir, Richardson, from Antigua, in Rappa-
hannock.
The members of the society for promoting USEFUL
KNOWLEDGE are desired to meet on TUESDAY the 31st of May.
At a time when the liberties of the colonies are daringly
infringed, and despotism is exerting her baneful influence
in the minds of those who wish not well to the just privi-
leges of America, it certainly behoves every wellwisher to
her rights, and more especially a publisher of intelligence
who has her cause sincerely at heart, to lay openly those
matters which may, in any respect, tend to the discovery of
arbitrary or illegal measures, threatened by the mother
country towards us. Under this head, the printer of this
paper conceives herself obligated to convey to the public the
late despotic proceedings of the h---e of c-----s in the
most ample manner, and to brand with infamy those un-
precedented resolves which they have so precipitately entered
into. But without a minute detail, with respect to the
many paragraphs in the English papers, for and against
this injured country, and which are so frequently blended
as materially to contradict each other, we have rather
adopted a more permanent authority, by introducing a
few candid pieces, sufficiently descriptive of the oppressive
proceedings of the PARENTAL country towards her dutiful
and filial children. Nor have we neglected an ADDRESS,
which, however curious, is left to our readers, whether it
deserves their approbation or contempt. The illegal and
unwarrantable act of parliament, passed on the 30th of
March last, and principally aimed against the Bostonians,
whose patriotic conduct on so interesting an occasion deserves
the highest applause, will not, it is hoped, quell their free
spirit, now the storm is beginning, and more especially as
there are so many united colonies to protect her at so critical
a juncture.
To the PRINTER.
SIR,
THE state of America is now becoming the subject
of serious consideration. Every real friend to that
country and to this must rejoice that it is so. Not only
the distress of both countries, form the present measures,
calls for that consideration; but, what is of the utmost
moment, the prevention of a national enmity being sub-
stituted for that confidence which formerly cemented us
together. That enmity must enevitably arise from con-
tinuing a systematic attempt in one part of the empire,
to employ its superior force in subduing the other to her
arbitrary will, Can it but be felt as an act of tyranny
never to be forgiven, if we employ our power not for the
purposed of protection, but of oppression?
But this deliberation must, to answer any great and
good purpose, be conducted with candour, justice, and
wisdom. Temporary expedients, violent, partial, and
precipitate counsels, serve only to increase the disease,
which they pretend to cure. The inflamed state of the
subject requires a tender hand and lenient applications.
”We have already tried what advantage is to be found
in governing by force, and have no reason to be proud of
the experiment.” The great concerns of a great nation
should be measured upon a scale of proportionably mag-
nitude. To speak again in the words of a wise and bene-
volent prelate, "a great, liberal, commanding spirit is
wanting; such as has appeared rarely in modern times,
but was better known to the ancients, which, without
computing and calculating what is strictly due, can extort
affections and gratitude by public services, which can sa-
crifice little, and even great interests to the establishment of
a solid, permanent authority, founded on justice and mo-
deration,, which, permitting her subjects to enjoy and
improve all their natural advantages, can always avail
herself of their wealth and numbers for the defence, or
the glory of the empire, and is sure to find the most
powerful resources of government in their friendshop and
love.”
Let justice and moderation govern the exercise of our
supreme authority over our colonies, and they will em-
brace us again with hears full of joy and acquiescence.
Let a great and liberal spirit go forth from hence, and it
will be received in America with satisfaction, and obeyed
without reluctance. Let the gentle hand of commerce
and of requisition, and not the red right arm of power
by arbitrary taxation, draw from her the produce of her
soil, and the surplus, if there be any, of her wealth.
She will minister this to our wants, to our strength, to
our grandeur, not ony without repining and without
complaint, but with cordiality and zeal. But
__ __ __ Differt summasne pudenter
An rapias. __ __ __ __
Too long have our regiments insulted their streets, and
our ships harassed their harbours. Too long have we
worn the face, without the advantages of hostility. Alas!
no advantage can ever be derived from it, because a victo-
ry would be our ruin. It would be a conquest over our-
selves, over the constitution and the commerce of this
country. For if the being taxed by our own consent
only, given by our representatives, be not the vital spirit
of our constitution, what is so? If we aid in ravishing
this right from America, with what justice can we claim
it for ourselves? Let us not then establish a precedent
which may conclude fatally to the whole kindgdom.
Is not the commerce with America of the last impor-
tance to this country: Will a military force, or irritating
avenging measures, retrieve what our ill policy may lose?
Is commerce a subject of compulsion? Shedding blood
would therefore be an act of savage rage, not of sound
wisdom. It will not redeem, but utterly ruin our co,-
merce. But the Americans will not oppose force by
force. They will use a much more irresistible mode of
opposition. I do not speak it to insult, but to inform.
I love and revere this country. I know it is the wish of
America to love and revere this country, not as slaves
but as subjects. Their opposition will be silent, and its
operation will be sure, though slow. No cunning can
elude, no force can frustrate its effects. Our commerce
must sink under it. The superior power of this country
will endeavour to aid it vain. That power will find it-
self in the situation of Volscens:
-- -- -- Nec teli conspicit usquam
Auctorem, nec quo se ardens immittere possit.
And for what is it that we are to hazard these conse-
quences? We are to fix a badge of slavery upon America,
to establish four ourselves a barren revenue. Have our
own burthens received one shilling alleviation from this
American tax, so arbitrarily imposed, so obstinately main-
tained? Is there any man in his senses who expects from
it any national relief? On the contrary, are we not this
moment at the expence of a military establishment in
American, for this sole purpose, twenty times greater than
was ever incurred before in times of peace. If our justice
is banished, where is our wisdom? Is not all this encreas-
ing our expences and our distress, without an actual,
without a probable equivalent? Is it not putting our best
commercial advantages to the hazard, without any emo-
lument if we succeed, without any retribution if we fail?
Is this wisdom, or is it folly, in the extreme? Is it spirit
or insanity? This paradoxical policy which proposes
Per damna, per cedes ab ipso
Ducere opes, animumque ferro?
Are these the means of relieving the distress of this
unhappy, this exhausted country? Because her burthens
are already greater than the well can bear, with all her
sources of wealth, are we therefore to lop off one of her
best, her surest resources, our American commerce? That
and the very means of supporting our national burthens.
That commerce from which the best bulwark of our
island, the navy, derives the strongest sinews of her
strength. That commerce which already furnished such
considerable supplies for the support of government.
These will be our triumphs; these our successes. But
will these feed the starving manufacturer? Will they re-
imburse the ruined merchant? Will they compensate the
injured revenue: Will they man our navy, or minister
any relief to the whole kingdom under the distress of a
general stagnation of manufacturers and of trade? Will
it satisfy the calls of hunger, or alleviate the distress of
bankruptcy, to read in the papers that our troops have
put fifty thousand Americans to the sword, our fleets
have laid the cities of Boston and New York in ashes?
When we talk of maintaining our power over the
colonies by severe laws and military force, we should
consider the wisdom of Queen Mary’s observation, which
applies equally here:---“That the state of every king
consists more assuredly in the love of the subjects towards
their prince than in the dread of laws made with rigo-
rous pains.”* When the distress our conduct will in all
human probability occasion, bear hard upon us, when
the emergency of a war calls for our military force at
home, and all our strength abroad, it will then be too
late to recollect the wise observation which Tacitus
ascribes to a British King, when this country felt its day
of foreign oppression, Metus et terror est infirma vincula
caritatis, quae ubi removeris, qui timere desierent, odisse
incipiant.
Dread and terror are but weak bonds of attachment,
and upon their dissolution, when fear ends, hatred begins
. JUNIUS AMERICANUS.
*1st Mary, Ch. I. St. I.
A WORD of EXPOSTULATION from the KING, LORDS,
andCOMMONS, to the AMERICANS.
High and mighty,
THE people of England having been for ages ac
knowledged the supreme head of all dominions
belonging to the imperial crown of this kingdom, they
naturally exercised from the first period of their political
existence a power to make laws for their provinces, and
as naturally imagined that the same principle of equity
which supported the right of their legal pre-eminence,
would always support the necessary superiority of their
interest over their various dependencies.
In this opinion they were no less justified by reason
than confirmed by prescription. Common sense seemed
to dictate the propriety of rendering partial benefit sub-
servient to general good; and as in the hour of their dis-
ress the dependencies constantly applied to the mother
country for protection as a right, the mother country, of
consequence, judged herself entitled to a reciprocal right
of demanding their dutiful obedience to her government.
This obedience she expected particularly from the Ame-
rican colonies, because the Americans were wholly the
creatures of her own formation, owed their entire being
to her indulgence, and possessed no one immunity that
did not evidently flow from the spontaneous source of
her immediate beneficence.
While the people of England mention this they are
reduced to the disagreeable necessity of refuting a very
favourite prejudice which has been eagerly inculcated
beyond the Atlantic, relative to the prodigious patriotism
of the original settlers in the colonies; they therefore
take leave to observe, as the present descendants of these
settlers talk very loudly about the virtue of their ancestors
in seeking for liberty through the immense wilds of the
western world, that very little praise is due to them upon
this account. The western world was not acquired by
their spirit, but given to their timidity, in the moment
of peril, when they basely fled from the cause of freedom,
and left the intrepid sons of genuine independency to
oppose the inroads of tyranny; they then sought a refuge
in the English dominions of America, against that op-
pression which they had not courage enough to resist at
home. The mother country, like a true parent forgot
their faults, and tenderly administered to their necessities;
she gave them lands to cultivate, she protected them
against all their enemies, and no sooner was her own
constitution restored than she granted them every privi-
lege which she herself enjoyed, as far as the local cir-
cumstances of both could give the enjoyment possibility.
From this simple state of things, the people of Eng-
land are convinced that the original settlers in America
were rather the obliged than the obliging, and that their
migration proceeded much less from a love of true liber-
ty than an abject dread of being oppressed, they were
willing to possess freedom, but they would not fight for
it. An effort of this active patriotism was lest entirely
for those whom they deserted, though so much is now
said of their public spirit; and their descendants are very
willing to inherit all the blessings they derived from the
goodness of their mother country, though they think it
an intolerable severity to pay a proper submission to her
laws.
The people of England, in vindication of their own
conduct, find it further necessary to observe, that the
argument of charters, which the colonies make use of in
their claim to an exemption from parliamentary jurisdicti-
on, is by no means conclusive on the present subject. The
crown has no right to make any grant prejudicial to the
interests of parliament; the power of the parliament is
the power of the people; and the crown was even taken
away at the revolution from the reigning prince because
he exercised an authority repugnant to the welfare of the
kingdom. There is in this place ample room to animad-
vert upon the gratitude of the colonies in wishing for
privileges evidently injurious to their benefactors. There
is also a copious opportunity of commenting upon the pa-
triotism of America in thus endeavouring to render the
prerogative of the crown superior to the legal ordinances
of parliament. But the poople of England will neither
enter into animadversions nor into comments that must
be disagreeable. They will only remark, that it is much
safer for the Americans to be subjects to the kingdom than
to the kind of Great Britain; and that if the throne is
once allowed a privilege of governing in the mother
country, contrary to the established principles of Law,
it will very speedily contend for the same privilege in the
provinces of America.
The people of England now proceed to the chief com-
plaint of the colonies, the want of representatives in the
parliament of Great Britain, and confess they hear it
with some degree of astonishment, as the colonies
themselves declare a representation utterly impossible. If
granting them a proportionable number of representatives
in the legislature was practicable
from considerations of locality; or if they had applied
for a right of sending members to deliberate on the laws
which they oppose, and were refused, then, indeed, they
would have reason to find fault; but when they have
never once desired to be represented, nay, when they
peremptorily pronounce on the total impossibility of the
circumstance, the people of England think it rather severe
to have that urged against them as a crime, which is
really their misfortune, and think if severer still to find
their justice continually impeached, for the purpose of
resisting their constitutional authority. If a discretionary
power is any where to be lodged in the present dispute,
the people of England are humbly of opinion that the
Americans may as well rely upon the tenderness of the
mother country, as the mother country depend upon the
gratitude of the Americans.
If the power of taxing the one at will is dangerous in
the hands of the other, is not the power of disobeying
laws at will to the full as dangerous in the hands of the
colonies? The moderation of the parent is surely equal
to the duty of the child; and surely as a concession must
be made either by the former or the latter, the concession
will be least disgraceful on the part of the daughter.
In this opinion the people of England are the more
grounded, because the Americans complain only partial-
ly of wanting representatives in the British parliament;
they acknowledge that the laws with Great Britain as
instituted for the regulation of their trade are perfectly
legal, though they were no more represented in the for-
mation of these laws than in the acts which lay an imme-
diate tax upon their property.
It will not consequently be so mighty a derogation
from their dignity, if they acknowledged the right of that
power to levy a trifling duty upon their wealth, which
they allow to prescribe limits in the acquisition of their
whole fortunes. On the contrary, men of sense must
wonder to hear the Americans gravely establishing a dis
tinction between internal and external taxation; to hear
them declaring all ordinances unjust with regard to their
interest, in which they have not concurred, and yet to
hear them at the same time confessing that the chief, by
which they can be affected, are unquestionably equitable
without their concurrence.
(We cannot possibly insert the whole of this piece at present;
the next paper shall contain the remainder.)
The following letter is supposed to be written by the famous
Edmund Burke, of the house of commons.
From the MORNING CHRONICLE.
To the Right Honourable Lord NORTH.
My LORD,
AS questions of the highest national importance are
now to be decided, and as measures pregnant with
danger and ruin are meditated, permit an American to
relate a few historical facts, which merit you most seri-
ous attention. This is propably the only address you
will receive on behalf of the colonies; when friends, con-
vinced of the efficacy of reason or truth in the present
conceit, have resolved to leave the British government to
gain wisdom by the more certain, but expensive means,
unhappy experience; concluding, that the consequence,
which must result from one hostile effort against America,
will produce more conviction than volumes of argument.
But as the public papers have been from some weeks a-
bandoned to those incendiaries who wish to spread carnage
and devastation through America, I shall make one sol-
litary attempt to frustrate their hopes, and vindicate the
claims of the colonies.
At the discovery of America, no person imagined any
part of that continent to be within the realm of England,
which was circumscribed within certain known and esta-
blished limits. Whatever was the title of the kings of
England at that time, to any share of America, it must
have been an acquired title; and the sovereign, then had,
and still has, an undoubted prerogative right, to alienate
for ever from the realm without consent of parliament,
any acquisition of foreign territory. This right has been
constantly exercised by the kings of England at almost
every treaty of peace, and at the sale of Dunkirk, &c.
and it was particularly manifested by the act for annexing
Gibraltar to the realm. Conformable to this prerogative
right, king James I, and Charles I. did alienate unto
certain persons, large territories in America, and by the
most solemn compacts, did form them into separate civil
states, with all the powers of distinct legislation and go-
vernment; particularly those of making peace and war,
coining money, pardoning crimes, conferring titles and
dignities, erecting and incorporating boroughs and cities,
establishing ports, harbours, &c. with a grant and release
of all subsidies and customs, to be levied within the same,
and an express exemption form foreign taxation. This is
evident from the most antient charters of Virginia and
Massachusetts Bay, but especially from that of Maryland,
which I have particularly stated in another performance.
From these charters it manifestly appears to have been
the royal intention to form these colonies into distinct
states (like Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man, &c.) dependent
on the crown, but not on the parliament of England;
and conformable to this intention, we find that when a
bill was several times brought into the house of com-
mons, to secure the people of England a liberty of fishing
on the coasts of America, messages were sent to the com-
mons by those monarchs, requiring them to proceed no
farther in the matter, and alleging that “America was
without the realm and jurisdiction of parliament;” and on
this principle the royal assent was withheld, during all
those reigns, from every bill affecting the colonies.
These and other facts which appear on the journals of
parliament, joined to the charters of the colonies, fully
demonstrate that they were really and intentionally cre-
ated distinct states, and exempted from the authority of
parliament. And their inhabitants having on the faith
of such fundamental terms and conditions, accepted,
cultivated, and improved the territories thus granted,
have an indefeasible right to maintain and enjoy the
privileges so acquired; and nothing can annex them to the
realms, or subject them to its legislature.
The right of the crown to alienate the soil of the colo-
nies, has not been disputed; but the right of exempting
their inhabitants from the jurisdiction of parliament, has
been denied without cause. Allegiance and subjection are
due from a people to their sovereign; but the alle-
giance of subjects to subjects, is an absurdity unknown
to the laws of this kingdom. The freedom of Britons
consists in this, that they participate the power of making
those laws by which they are governed; and wherever
this freedom is enjoyed, the legislative power must ne-
cessarily be confined to those who partake of it, either in
person or delegation; so long as the people of America
resided within the realm, shared in its government, and
were protected by it, so long they were necessarily bound
to obey, and support that government; but when, by
the consent of their sovereign, they migrated to Ireland
and American, though they continued within the kings’s
allegiance, yet ceasing to participate or enjoy the legis-
lative power of this realm, the operation of that power
over them necessarily terminated; and nothing more was
necessary to imancipate the people of America from the
authority of parliament, than to permit them to leave
the realm; which nobody will deny the king’s right of
doing; and should the people of England, by their dele-
gates, continue to exercise the powers of legislation and
taxation upon the colonists, after such separation from
the realm, they must exalt themselves to the sovereignty
of America, and render the inhabitants of that country,
the subjectsof subjects; a condition more humiliating than
those of the Spartan Helotes; for if a people be subject to
any supreme power, in which they have no participation,
whether it be legal in a single person, or in thousands,
the power isdespotism, and the subjects of it are slaves
After the death of King Charles the First, the com-
monwealth parliament which usurped the rights of the
crown, naturally concluded, that by those rights they
had acquired some kind of supremacy over the colonies
of America; the people of New England had indeed ap-
proved their proceedings, and were therefore left without
any exercise of such supremacy by the commonwealth
parliament; but Virginia, and other places, having held
out for the king, were reduced by force; and the condi-
tions on which they submitted, clearly discover that the
supremacy, claimed by this parliament, was no more
than nominal<.p>
The articles of the treaty were as follow:
”I. The plantation of Virginia, and all the inhabitants
thereof, shall be and remain in cue subjection to the com-
monwealth of England; not as a conquered country, but
as a country submitting by their own voluntary act; and
shall enjoy such freedoms and privileges as belong to the
free people of England.
”II. The general assembly as formerly shall convene
and transact the affairs of the colony.
”III. The people of Virginia shall have a free trade
as the people of England, to all places, and all nations.
”IV. Virginia shall be free from all taxes, customs,
and impositions whatsoever, and none shall be imposed
on them, without the consent of their general assembly;
and that neither forts nor castles shall be erected, nor
garrisons maintained, without their consent.”
From hence your lordship may discover, that the
rights of the colonies, in those early days, were acknow-
ledged; and that even those who had brought a monarch
to the scaffold had the moderation and justice to repect
and preserve those rights. Nor did the Virginians esteem
the privileges granted by this treaty as any valuable ac-
qusition; for (considering themselves as a distinct state)
they in Janurary 1659, invested Sir William Berkley
with the government, and proclaimed Charles the second
king of England, Scotland, France, Ireland, and Vir-
ginia, some time before his restoration to England.
After the restoration, the act of navigation, and that
of the 15th of Charles II. were passed; but these I have
fully considered in another place; as also that of the 25th
of the same reign, which for the regulation of commerce
(as the preamble expresses)first laid duties on certain ar-
ticles in the colonies. This, however, was held to be
such an infringement of their rights, that a general re-
volution ensued in Virginia, and the king’s governor was
deposed; and when after Bacon’s death, this insurrection
subsided, agents were sent to England, to remonstrate
”against taxes and impositions being laid on the colony
by any authority but that of the general assembly.” And
this monstrance produced a declaration from the king,
under the privy seal, dated the 19th of April, 1676, de-
claring, “that taxes ought to be laid upon the pro-
prietors and inhabitants of the colony, but by the com-
mon content of the general assembly, except such impo-
sitions as the parliament should lay on the commodities
imported into England from the colony.” And though
the duties which had given rife to this remonstrance and
declaration were not wholly repealed until some time
after, yet when a supply was wanted for the support of
government in Virginia, the king, in 1679, framed (in
England) an act for the purpose and sent it thither by
Lord Colepepper, when it was passed into a law, and
with the consent of the general assembly of the colony of
Virginia, &c.” Here we see the sovereign naming him-
self as a part of the legislature of that province, and
thereby manifesting that he considered it as a supreme
legislature. For if the colonies be a part of the realm it is
a violation of the great charter of king John, and the
bill and declaration of rights, for the king personally, or
his governors, to join any other assembly than the
parliament, in any act for raising money from them;
it is to subject them to complex taxations, which are re-
pugnant to the British constitution.
In 1691, when the new charter of Massachusetts Bay
was granted by king William, the agents thought it not
adequate to the defects and expectations of the province,
and were unwilling to accept it. This, however the
majority of them, after consulting the most able lawyers,
resolved to do, and in justification of their conduct, sub-
cribbed an instrument containing the reasons of it. The
last article of which will shew the idea then entertained
of the fights of that province: :The colony (say these
gentlemen) is now made a province, and the general
court has, with the king’s approbation, as much power
in New England as the king and parliament have in
England. They have all English privileges and liber-
ties, and can be touched byno law and by no tax, but
of their own making.” Nor had the people of New
England any reason to alter this opinion of their rights
until since the conclusion of the last war; no imposition
upon them having in that long interval been attempted
by parliamentary authority. There are many other facts
which might be adduced to the same purport; but these
will suffice to shew that the claim of the colonies to the
privileges of distinct legislation and government, and to
an exemption form parliamentary taxation, are not new,
as some have ignorantly or wickedly pretended. They
will also shew, that from the earliest years of their settle-
ment the rights of the colonies have been known, and
with but little variation have been acknowledged, respect-
ed, and maintained, even by the legislature of this coun-
try; and the few instances as usurpations of the strong
against the weak; and “quod ab initio injustum est, nullum
potest habere juris effectum.” Grotius. There are other
gorunds, however, on which the adversaries of the colo-
nies have chosen to manage this contest; and upon these
grounds, I shall meet then in my next. I am, my lord,
your’s, &c. E. B.
Mrs. RIND,
BY inserting the following proposals, for the conside-
ration of the house of burgesses, in your useful
paper, you will oblige a great number of your readers.
1. That it be enacted, that the vestries of every parish
be elected, by their parishioners respectively, every ten,
twelve, or fourteen years, which will effectually remedy
the many and various impositions, and illegal and arbi-
trary measures, that are so frequently and justly com-
plained of; it will quiet and ease the minds of numbers
of the parishioners will prevent the frequent applications
to the assembly for redress, and will thereby save a great
deal of time and expence.
2. That for the dispatch of business in the county
courts, and a more effectual method of coming at justice,
it be enacted, *that the courts in every county respective-
ly, or a majority of them, be empowered, on some court
day annually, to nominate and appoint twenty four days
of the fittest and ablest men of their county (not being
of the bench, nor of the bar) to serve as jurymen for the
year ensuing, twelve of whom to attend and serve, if
required, every court day, either alternately or indiscri-
minutely, or the whole twentyfour, when so many of the
causes are ready for trial as to require two juries in one
day, the said jurymen to be subjected t a fine or penalty
for nonattendance, or refusing to serve when required,
unless in cases of sickness or disability, or other reason-
able excuse, be offered to the satisfaction of the court;
and when a sufficient number of the said jurymen be not
present, that then the sheriff to summon enough of the
bystanders to make up the deficiency; that they or such
of them as serve, shall be paid, bu the party cast, some
moderate fee, just enough to defray their reasonable ex-
pences. Moreover, that whenever there are to be any
new magistrates added to the commission of the peace,
the court shall nominate, for that purpose, some of the
said jurymen who have served the most constantly and
diligently, and none else. This may encourage the ju-
rymen to inform themselves with the laws of their coun-
try, and instill in them a better notion of equity.
By this, or some such law, the present evil of weak
juries will be removed, the causes will be determined
with much more dispatch and justice, and in time our
benches will be filled with abler magistrates.
Mrs. Rind,
The enclosed was intended for your last paper, but by
some accident miscarried. Your publication of it this
week will oblige A CUSTOMER.
ON Monday the 2d of May was celebrated in Norfolk
the anniversary of Saint TAMMINY, the tutelar
saint of the American colonies. At one o’clock a royal
salute of twenty guns from a battery erected for the
purpose, ushered in the rejoicings of the day, and in the
evening a grand entertainment was given at the Mason’s
Hall by the sons of the saint, to which there was a gene-
ral invitation, and the company exceedingly numerous
and brilliant, consisting of near 400 persons. At six, the
ball was opened by one of our worthy burgesses, in the
character of King TAMMINY, properly accoutred in
the antient habit of this country, at which time another
royal salute was given. The ladies, whose fair bosoms
on this occasion seemed more particularly animated with
a generous love of their country, indulged the compa-
ny with their presence till four in the morning; and after
their retirement, the sons of Saint TAMMINY, accord-
ing to the immemorial custom of these countries, encir-
cled their king, and practiced the antient mysterious war
dance, so highly descriptive of the warmest attachment
and freedom of spirit. The whole was conducted with
the strictest decorum, and to the universal satisfaction of
the assembly; while the cordiality with which the sons
of the brother saints, Dt. George, St. Andrew, St. Patrick,
and St. David, entered into the general mirth of the
evening, gave particular pleasure, and was truly emble-
matical of that happy union which has long subsisted
between the parent state and her colonies, while Britain
was just, and America was free, and which every lover
of his country would wish should still subsist for ages yet
to come.
But should corruption, with despotic rage,
Seize the strong pillars that support the state,
Strain ev’ry nerve to pull destruction down,
To blend in ruins freedom and her sons,
And crush our growing empire in its youth,
Then let us rouze submission from her knees,
And stand like heroes firm in its defence;
Then let one spirit of a BRUTUS reign,
And martial sounds be music to each ear;
While some great prince of BRUNSWICK’S glorious line
Ranks our wide armies, and inspires to war.
Thus shall we see and triumph in the fight,
While malice frets, and fumes, and gnaws her chains.
AMERICA shall blast her fiercest foes,
Shall brave the dismal shocks of bloody war,
And in unrivall’d pomp resplendent rife,
And shine sole empress of the western world!
DUTCH FANS,
FOR cleaning wheat or any other kind of grain, are
made and sold by ADAM EKART, in Market street,
Philadelphia. Likewise rolling screens, sieves for sifting
iron ore, &c. warranted of the best make; also all sorts of
wire work, for cleaning wheat, barley, rye, flax seed,
Indian corn, oats, or any other kind of grain, and wire
short-cloths for millers. The same to be had of captain
Matthew Phripp, in Norfolk.
CARRIAGES of various sorts and prices to be sold by
ELKANAH DEANE, coachmaker, at his shop in
Palace street, Williamsburg, who makes all kinds of
coaches, chariots, postchairs, phaetons, curricles, chairs,
and chaises, with harness of every sort. Carriages of
every kind are repaired, painted, gilded, and japanned,
in the best manner, and on the most reasonable terms,
for cash. Gentlemen or ladies residing in the country,
by sending their commands to said Deane, may depend
on being well used, and their commands executed with
the greatest care and dispatch. He returns his unfeigned
thanks to those gentlemen and ladies who have favoured
him with their custom, and it determined to make it his
study to please all who are kind enough to employ him.
----Being in want of a few more JOURNEYMEN, he
will give the following prices, provided they are good
hands: For every chair body, single or double, according
to my directions, I will give four pounds, for every chair
carriage eighteen shillings, for every pair of wheels 22
shillings, and so in proportion for all other work, I
would willingly take two or three apprentices who have
been genteelly brought up, and tolerably educated; no
others need apply.---Said Deane has some choice brandy,
gin, rum, and several kind of cordials; such as anniseed
water, orange ditto, clove ditto, allfours, cherry brandy,
and raspberry ditto; all which he will dispose of on rea-
sonable terms, for cash, to those who will take a quanitity
THE subscriber, of Sussex county, being under the
disagreeable necessity of taking this method of
acquainting the public that his wife Sarah Northington
has left his bed and board, therefore forewarns all per-
sons from trusting her on his account, as he will pay no
debts of her contracting.
May 5, 1774. SAMUEL NORTHINGTON.
JUST arrived in York river, the Brilliant, Captain
Miller, from London, with a choice healthy indented
SERVANTS, the sale of which will begin at Richmond
town on Wednesday the 25th of May; among which
are the following tradesmen, viz. blacksmiths, brasiers,
edgetool makers, bricklayers, shoemakers,
stone masons, carpenters, joiners, and cabinetmakers,
cloth weavers, stocking weavers, barbers and peruke-
makers, gardeners, farmers, labourers and husbandmen,
book-keepers and schoolmasters, tailors, silkdyers, bakers,
painters, leatherdressers, sawyers, butchers, a steward,
groom, surgeon, &c. I will sell them very cheap, for
ready money, or tobacco; and for those on credit, bond
and security will be required.
THOMAS SMITH.
To be SOLD, on the 6th day of June, at the late
dwellinghouse of Mr. Robinson Daingerfield, deceased,
in King & Queen county,
ALL the household and kitchen furniture, most of
which are very good, a parcel of good books, a
large and small microscope, and a perspective glass, with
views. Twelve months credit will be given for all sums
above forty shillings, on giving bond, with good securi-
ty; those bonds that are not paid off at the day to carry
interest from the date.
THOMAS LOWRY,
2* W. DAINGERFIELD, administrators.
I HAVE for sale 481 acres of land adjoining the lands
of James Bates, deceased, on Skiminoe creek, in York
county. The land is very convenient to Williamsburg,
to three parish churches, quakers meetinghouse, several
gristmills, two warehouses, and a navigable landing.
It is well timbered with oak suitable for framing, scant-
ling, fire wood, and fencing. This land joins Fleming
Bates, who will shew the same to any person inclinable
to purchase; and I do authorize th said Fleming Bates
to sell the same, and will abide by whatever agreement
he may make. ‘ 2* JOHN BATES.
STRAYED, or stolen, from the subscriber, in Wil-
liamsburg, on Sunday the 1st of May, a white mare,
about 13 hands one or two inches high, with a hanging
mane and tail, paces and gallops, one of her hips rather
higher than the other. I bought her of one William
Archer from Louisa county. I do not recollect that
she has any brand. Whoever brings the said mare to me
shall be well rewarded for their trouble, and all reason-
able charges paid. JOHN HOLT.
GEORGE the third, by the grace of God, of Great
Britain, France, and Ireland, king, defender of
the faith, &c. To the sheriff of Hampshire county,
greeting: We command you that you summon Charles
Lynch to appear before the justices of our said county
court of chancery on the second Tuesday of next month,
to answer a bill in chancery, exhibited against him and
Abraham Hite, gentlemen, by Matthew Bush, of the city
of Philadelphia, and province of Pennsylvania; and this
he shall in no wise omit, under the penalty of 100l. and
have then there this writ. Witness Gabriel Jones, clerk
of our said court, this 14th day of April, in the 14th year
of our reign. 3 GABRIEL JONES.
COMMITTED to Gloucester goal, the 13th of this
instant (May) a negro man who calls himself by the
name of William, and says he belongs to Pater Funnell,
of New England, and has been absent from thence ten
years; he is about 35 years of age, about 5 feet 10
inches high, speaks a little broken, much pockpitted, and
has a very particular scar on his nose. His says he has sailed
to many parts of Europe and America. His master may
have him on proving his property, and paying charges.
WILLIAM SMITH, gaoler.
COMMITTED to the goal of Northumberland, on
the 2d of May, a negro man who calls himself
Charles, and says he belongs to Mr. John Booth, in
Amelia. He was purchased by Samuel Griffin of John
Blackwell’s estate. He is a well set fellow, and about 25
years old. The owner is desired to apply for him.
3+ JOHN CRAIN, gaolor.
TAKEN up in Buckingham, six hogs, three of
which are barrows, with bob tails, the others are
sows; they are all black and white, with a crop and two
slits in the right ear, and half the under part of the left
taken off, in the manner of a fox’s ear; they are all about
one year old. Poster, and appraised to 2l. 5s.
+SETH CASON.
TAKEN up, in Culpeper, a black horse about 4
feet 8 or 9 inches high, about 7 years old; has a
small star in his forehead, and branded on the near shoul-
der and buttock P. Poster, and appraised to 17l.<be
TAKEN up, in Culpeper, a black cow and calf,
the cow marked with a small crop in each ear, and
then slip down and cut out. Likewise a red brindled
heifer, about 2 or 3 ears old, marked with an underkeel
in the left ear, and swallowfork in the right. The Cow
and calf are appraised to 4l. and the heifer to 1l. 10s.
+JAMES SLAUGHTER, jun.
TAKEN up, in Loudoun, near West’s tavern, a
small light brindle cow, appears to be 9 or 10
years old, has a white face, and some white under her
belly, has on a middle sized bell, tied with a rope,
marked on the right ear, with a crop, slit, and swallow-
fork in the left. Posted, and appraised to 2l.5s.
+ JOHN TAYLOR.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a black mare, 4 feet 5
inches high, 13 or 15 years old, with a white spot
on her right buttock, a star in her forehead, and brand-
ed on the near buttock with 3 dots; she had on a bell,
Posted, and appraised to 6l.
§WILLIAM LAVENDER.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, a bay horse, about 9 or
10 years old, 4 feet 6 inches high, has some saddle
spots, and branded on the off buttock and shoulder HC.
Poster, and appraised to 10l.
RICHARD STONE, senior.
TAKEN up, in Dunmore, a dark bay mare, about
4 feet 6 inches high, branded on the bear buttock
HF, has a star in her forehead, newly shod before, with
a bell on, and paces naturally. Posted and appraised
to 8l.*LAWRENCE SNAPP.
May 19, 1774. SUPPLEMENT TO THE VIRGINIA GAZETTE. NUMBER 419.
Mrs. RIND,
THE inclination we all possess to stand fair in
the good opinion of the world obliges me to
beg a place in your paper, that I may con-
vince the public of the disingenuous behaviour
of the sheriff of Berkeley, in endeavouring, as
I am informed, to prepossess it with an opinion that I
have lately acted in direct opposition to the laws, by not
peaceably permitting him to wrest from me, with an arm-
ed force, all my property, without any lawful authority.
The following plain relation of facts will, I hope, easily
do it.
Some time ago Mr. James Hunter, of Fredericksburg,
obtained a judgment against me in the county court of
Frederick for a considerable sum of money, and upon
his giving me some indulgence, I promised him, that if
he should be obliged to issue an execution against my
estate, I would not replevy. The time of indulgence
elapsed, and I was not able to discharge all his demand.
A fieri facias then issued to the sheriff of Berkeley; a de-
puty who had farmed the office informed me of it. I
immediately delivered him a schedule of effects of about
3500£. value, upon which he levied it. These goods he
left in my possession till the day appointed for the sale,
without ever demanding any security from me for the
delivery of them at that time. The deputy called upon
me on the day in order to see, and I as readily delivered
the goods to him then as i did when he executed them.
But no buyers appeared, and he was obliged to return
the writ without the desired effect. At this time nothing
could have induced me to replevy. A venditioni exponas
then issued, but nothing was sold, for the same reason.
A second issued; still there was no sale, and for the same
reason. But I continued to deliver effects to the sheriff,
a negro, and sundry other goods, and offered the plaintiff
himself (then present) as much of my estate, at three
fourths of the value, or upon three months credit, as
would pay off his whole demand; both of which reason-
able proposals he refused. Probably a want of the money,
which should and would have been paid him long ago
if I could have done it, made him forget his usual calm-
ness and lenity, and obliged him to insist on a sale at any
rate, and upon any terms. Thus situated, what could I
do? Who has fortitude enough patiently to see his for-
tune sold for one quarter of its value? Who can hear the
cries of a distressed family, with poverty staring them in
the face, when they might be hushed into peace by offend
ing only against a punctilio of honour? Which I think I
am released from by offering my estate at 3/4 of its value.
Let those who can boast their stoicism; I frankly own I
could not. A third venditioni exponas issued; and upon
my tendering to the sheriff, who had levied the execution,
bond and security, approved by him, to pay the debt,
&c. within three months, he accepted it, and restored
my goods to me, having first informed himself from his
counsel that he had a right to do so. I then thought the
matter over, and was exerting myself to discharge the
bond by the time it became due; but to my great sur-
prize, at the succeeding Frederick court, a motion was
made by Mr. Hunter’s attorney, to quash the sheriff’s
return on the last venditioni exponas, viz. The within
goods and chattels are replevied by bond, and to direct
the clerk to issue a new one, in which they succeeded. I
was at a loss to know what this order meant, or how a
venditioni exponas could issue, when it appeared to the
court that the goods, by being replevied, had been
peaceably delivered to me, and that the writ could not,
for that reason, be executed. I imagined that the re-
plevy bond, in which my friend stood engaged with me
for the payment of this debt, would have been delivered
up, or otherwise cancelled; but it was not, and still is in
the clerk’s office. I then waited with impatience for the
event. The deputy sheriff was said to be too indulgent
although I am convinced that he did no more than he
thought strictly legal, and agreeable to the advice he had
received from his counsel. The sheriff himself determin-
ed to interfere, not from any particular attachment or
regard he has to doing justice, but to wreak his vengeance
upon me for endeavouring to force from him that justice
which a court and HONEST JURY had determined I had
a right to. Some few days after this last venditioni ex-
ponis issued, the deputy sheriff called upon me, and in-
formed me that the high sheriff had taken upon himself
the execution of that writ, and desired to know whether
if the goods were demanded I would deliver them. I
laughed at him, and told him, what every man in my
situation would have done, that the effects had been
peaceably delivered to me by the officers who had taken
them, and that therefore he might know what I would
do. Who would do what must be of such mischief to
him? Will any man do wrong to himself? Surely, Sir,
you forget the situation of this affair; and words to the
like effect. These, or words like these, passed between
us. The next morning, long before sunrise, the sheriff,
with about forty men in arms, came to my plantation,
and without making any demand of my goods, or in-
forming me what he wanted, broke open the doors of
my outhouses, carried off part of my negroes, some that
had never been executed, broke down my fences, entered
my fields, drove away many of my horses, and at length
came in great parade to my dwellinghouse, unlocked the
doors of my wife’s chamber, took from thence, and car-
ried away, a bed and furniture, and absolutely refused
to inform me by what authority he did so, although fre-
quently demanded of him. Amazed at such proceedings,
and having, from my earliest infancy, been taught to
know, “that a man’s dwellinghouse was his castle, his
sanctuary, to which he might fly for protection of himself
and goods, the doors of which could not be broke open
but at the suit of the king,” and well assured that I had
not committed any thing criminal (unless it be criminal
not to pay a dept when it is impossible to do it) I won-
dered where he would stop. Upon reflection, I thought
unassisted at that time by any cousel) that since in a
civilized country the civil power is sufficient to execute
its laws, and that an armed force ought not, under the
pretence of doing justice, to be employed in laying waste
a man’s property, the sheriff had certainly offended
against those laws he had solemnly sworn to preserve and
execute; but whether it amounted to a felony, riot, or
breach of the peace, I could not determine. The next
day I applied to a magistrate, and informed him, on
oath, of the treatment I had received of the sheriff’s
hands. He issued his warrant, directed to any sworn
officer, reciting the above facts, and commanded him to
bring the sheriff, and many others who had assisted him,
before him, or some other magistrate, to answer the said
complaint. A constable informed that the sheriff, with
others were under arms at the gaol, summoned about
twenty men to assist him in the execution of that warrant,
who determined to execute it peaceably, proceeded to the
gaol (the gaoler and some others there with him being
among the trespassers) without the least direction from
me or intention to rescue or retake the goods, &c. I
having by this time determined to seek my remedy, if
any, at law. The gaoler, after some shew of resistance,
decoyed the constable into the gaol, immediately locked
the door, and drew his sword upon him, assisted by ano-
ther fellow, who presented a gun at his breast. Upon
the constable’s calling out for assistance, the men attend-
ing broke in to relieve him, and the negroes then con-
fined took that opportunity to escape, and brought home
the horses with them. This, and this alone, was the
true reason why the gaol was broke, and not any inten-
tion to rescue the goods, as has been most falsly sug-
gested. To endeavour to secure these negroes from a
second attack, I sent them, with many others, to my
brother’s in Frederick county, wither they were pur-
sued by a party of the Berkeley militia, without any
warrant to retake them. All were here taken in the
night, brought back, and sold by the sheriff for any
thing he could get for them. I attended this sale, ex-
plained to the people the manner in which the goods
were taken, and forbade them to purchase at their peril.
Upon the gaol being thus broke open, the sheriff applied
to two magistrates who, upon oath being made, issued
their warrant to bring the constable, together with the
men that attended him, and all others found aiding, &c.
before them, to answer his complaint for “feloniously,
arbitrarily, and in an atrocious, riotous manner, con-
trary to the peace of our sovereign lord the king, and
the good rule of government, breaking open the doors
of the gaol, &c. &c. &c.” The men, thus charged and
loaded with the most reproachful terms, thinking they
had not offended, but if they had, ready to receive pu-
nishment adequate to their offences, upon being inform-
ed that such a warrant would issue the next day, and that
a body of the militia in arms would assist in executing it,
went to two magistrates, informed them of their situati-
on, and that they were then come to deliver themselves
up, to be dealt with as the law might direct. The ma-
gistrates thinking they had been guilty of nothing crimi-
nal, and but only of a breach of the peace, and knowing
all the men to be residents in the county, and that they
would appear at the next county court, which wa to
set in three days, refused to commit them. Soon after
their return home, they were arrested, under the warrant
from two other magistrates, by a deputy sheriff, and
a body of armed men, hurried to a tavern near the
courthouse, and there confined under guard about 18
hours. The next day the county court was to be held,
but the magistrates refusing to sit, because not only the
clerk was absent, but his deputy was in the number of
prisoners, and because some of them were informed that
the sheriff, should the court sit, was determined to enter
the courthouse with an ARMED FORCE, and take the clerk
away, the prisoners were brought before some of them
in the courthouse to be tried. The king’s counsel was
heard in support of the charge; but when the prisoners
arose, and moved that the militia, then in arms sur-
rounding the courthouse, and blocking up the doors,
might be removed, or that their arms might be taken
from them, it was refused him, though the courthouse
was so full that an escape was impracticable. The
magistrates determined the offence to be felonious, and
ordered a court to be summoned for their examination,
as criminals, and admitted the prisoners to bail them-
selves in 1500£. each, and two securities, for each of
them, in 750£. each, notwithstanding they were informed
that almost every man was in very indigent circumstances,
and that the excessiveness of the sum might amount to an
imprisonment.
These, Madam, are the facts, or the greater part of
them, without the lest exaggeration; every one of
which I can prove by undeniable testimony. Had I set
forth the number of taunts, incivilities, and indeed as-
saults, I have met with in the course of this very trou-
blesome and extraordinary affair, it might be thought I
intended to move the pity, instead of desiring the impar-
tial judgment, of the candid public. I wish the sheriff
may have stated the facts as fairly and as truly. If he
has not, I hope any gentlemen, who have been preju-
diced against me by private misrepresentations, will pub-
lish their states, and let us stand or fall upon the proof
of our assertions.
STOLEN from the subscriber’s door on Saturday
night the 7th instant (May) a dark brown bay horse,
with saddle and bridle on, about 15 hands high, nine
years old, trots and gallops, is a little touched in his
wind, has a long bob tail and hanging mane, and no
perceivable brand. Whoever brings the said horse to
me shall receive TWENTY SHILLINGS reward, and
FIVE POUNDS on conviction of the thief.
JOHN DRAPER.
WILLIAMSBURG, May 10, 1774.
TAKEN up, in Buckingham, a small bay mare,
with three white feet, has a small star in her fore-
head, grey hairs in her tail and mane, docked, but no
perceivable brand, about 2 or 3 years old, about 4 feet
1 inch high, and is very gentle. Posted, and appraised
to 3£. 10s. * ISAAC CHASTIN.
TAKEN up, a small dark iron grey mare colt, about
2 years old, has a long tail, and is branded on the
rear buttock, as well as I can make out, [upside down C] I. Posted,
and appraised to 2£. 5s. JOHN BRUIN.
Just imported from London, and to be disposed of by the
subscriber, at a low advance, for ready money only,
A NEAT and elegant assortment of MILLINERY,
JEWELLERY, and other GOODS, which are
exceeding well chose, and in the newest taste, viz. Patent,
nett, and blond lace hoods, rich suits of ditto, puffs,
whims, fancy, true Italian, and gauze caps, ditto nosegay
and breast flowers, sultains, egrets, fillets, baves, plumes,
minionet lace, blond ditto, and thread edging, gentle-
mens laced ruffles, ladies tupees and French curles, blue,
black, and white ostrich feathers, riding hats, suitable
gloves to ditto, Jacob’s ladder, velvet collars, locket,
crown taste, and a great variety of other ribbands, true
Italian, lace, ribband, fancy, and silver stomachers, silver
corals and bells, plain and set combs, paste buckles,
bows and soletaires, various kinds of sprig and paste pins,
blue agate set round with marcasite, pinch wax, real gar-
net and mock, paste, white wax and wax pearl necklaces
and earrings, cluster, garnet, plain gold, and marcasite
lockets and crosses, black pins, earring and stay hooks,
paste ditto, gold bands, buttons, and loops, watch strings,
keys, seals, and trinkets, smelling bottles, tortoiseshell dan-
dy prats, pocketbooks with instruments, fine India cot-
ton thread, floss, and sewing silk, green silk purses,
needles, pins bobbins and tapes, single and double black
pins, curling tongues, and hair powder, patent, ribbed,
and white China hose, fine cotton and thread ditto, Dids-
bury’s shoes, Gresham’s pumps, pink, blue, and white
sattin ditto, pink, blue and white sattin quilts, black
russell ditto, beautiful wedding and French mounted
fans, second mourning, black, and common ditto, rich
white flowered and plain lustring, shot and striped ditto,
plain and striped taffeties, India chintzes and callicoe,
fine Irish linen, superfine India dimity, black bombazeen,
grained kid, lamb, silk gloves and mits, boys caps and
feathers, chipped and cane hats, bonnets and cloaks,
book and thick muslins, cambricks, lawns, white and
black gauzes, catgut and queen’s nett book muslin and
lawns, needle worked aprons, black, white and coloured
flowered casting handkerchiefs, muslin, lawn, gauze,
and checked ditto, rich sword suits, undressed dolls, very
nice brass mounted trucks, either for chariot or chaise;
and a multiplicity of other articles, too tedious to enu-
merate. M. DICKERSON.
N. B. She returns those gentlemen and ladies, who
have favoured her with their custom, her most cordial
thanks; particularly her good friends in the country;
and as it shall ever be her study to give satisfaction, they
may rely on their orders being attended to with the
strictest care, by their much obliged, and very humble
servant, M. D.
PURSUANT to a decree of the honourable the gene-
ral court will be sold, for ready money, at Hamp-
shire courthouse, on the second Tuesday in June next,
three tracts of LAND, of 500 acres each, in the said
county of Hampshire, on George Andis’s mill run, and
adjoining the lands of Henry Heath, the property of the
late Mr. Joseph Watson, deceased, and by him mort-
gaged to Mr. Garret Meade of Philadelphia, who has
obtained a decree for a sale to satisfy his demand. A
conveyance, with special warranty, will be made the pur-
chaser by The SHERIFF of HAMPSHIRE.
*** These lands were formerly advertised in this paper
for sale, and prevented by bad weather, but will now be
sold without fail.
DUMFRIES, May 2, 1774.
THE members of the Dumfries jockey club are de-
sired to meet here on Saturday the 11th of June,
to settle the time of the races. Such members as cannot
conveniently attend, and want to fix them at any parti-
cular time, will please to signify the same by letter to
me, and their respective proposals shall be laid before the
club. 3 RICHARD GRAHAM.
To be SOLD in Brunswick, on the Great Creek,
SEVEN hundred and thirty acres of land, most part
of which is good for tobacco. There are several
improvements on it, as to buildings, a good orchard, &c.
Any person inclinable to purchase may know the terms
by applying to the subscriber, on the premises.
3 JOHN HOGWOOD.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of Richard Kel-
sick, deceased, of the borough of Norfolk, are
requested to make immediate payment; and those who
have any demands against the said estate, are desired to
make them known to
JOSEPH HUTCHINGS, Executor.
WHEREAS it has been reported by some ill disposed
person or persons, and that in the most virulent
and sarcastic terms, which is commonly the case of
malevolents, with a determined resolution it should
reach the ears of every one, and was consequently propa-
gated by some or other of the vicious race of mortals,
who delight in nothing better than backbiting their neigh-
bours, that I the subscriber hereof have been guilty of
using too much familiarity amongst my scholars, and
thereby rendered them disobedient, so that it could not
possibly be expected they would profit much in coming to
me; In vindication of that notorious falsity, and for the
beings, I do entreat him or them, to repair to my
school room, at Mr. Robert Jackson’s whensoever it shall
suit, and should he or they be disposed to believe his, or
their own eyes, I can flatter myself to be capable of shew-
ing them as well disciplined a school as any in the city of
Williamsburg; and in order to prevent any the like dis-
turbances for the future amongst my benevolent and kind
wellwishers, or friends, who informed me of this unjust
charge, he or they shall receive as severe a reprimand as
can be offered by his or their humble servant.
B. LE PETIT.
RUN away from the subscriber, on the 1st instant
(May) a servant man named JOHN MASON, of a
dark complexion, short dark hair, about 5 feet 10 inches
high, has lately had a cut over one of his eyes, supposed
to be the left, and is by trade a perukemaker; had on a
dark blue coat, striped waistcoat, white breeches, and
pale blue stockings. Whoever secures the said servant,
so that I get him again, shall receive 40s. and if delivered
to me, in Norfolk, 3£. DAVID REYNOLDS.
For SALE,
THE improved SQUARE of LOTS
adjoining the lots belonging to Mr.
E. DEANE, coachmaker in Palace street,
Williamsburg. JOHN TAZEWELL,
esquire, of this city, is empowered to sell.
If the purchaser, or purchasers, do not
pay ready money, his bond, with approved
securities, made payable to ROBERT CAR-
TER, will be satisfactory. tf
To the CLERGY of VIRGINIA.
REVEREND SIRS,
THINKING this a very proper season for taking
into consideration certain matters in which the
clergy are most immediately and deeply concerned, and
finding several of my brethren, whose opinions have
great weight with me, to be very confident, that if our
whole body should be desired to meet, they would not
at this time shew a general backwardness to honour the
request, I have come to a resolution of appointing, and
do accordingly appoint, the Thursday after Whitsunday
for the clergy to convene upon at the college of William
and Mary. When the day appointed comes, I hope
those who advised me to this measure will with me enjoy
the satisfaction of finding their expectations fully an-
swered by being able to assemble with a very respectable
number of their fraternity on an occasion which they as
well as I deem important. I am, with ardent prayers
for your real welfare, and the good of the community,
reverend gentlemen, your loving and affectionate bro-
ther, JOHN CAMM.
COLLEGE, May 5, 1774.
Just imported from London, and sold by the
subscriber, at her store opposite the Raleigh
in Williamsburg,
A WELL chosen assortment of the neatest GOODS,
consisting of fine tread and blond lace, white
sattin and lustring, blue sattin and sarsnet petticoats,
white ditto for weddings, sattin and queen silk shoes,
muslin, gauze, catgut, and wire, worked linen, ribbands,
plain and ribbed, silk, cotton, and thread stockings, small
ditto for children, patent net aprons, equal in beauty to
joining lace, silk gloves and mits, roles and curls, tam-
bour sword knots, boys beaver and hussar caps, ladies
riding hats, feathers, and whips, childrens sashes and
stays, a large quantity of Didsbury shoes, sheneel, fine
chip and cane hats, fans, cloaks, gauze handkerchiefs,
purses, bags and puffs, purl for work, tureen, pump,
and pap ladles, stone, silver, gilt, and pinchbeck, both
shoe and knee buckles, paste, garnet, gold, and black,
stock ditto, India plate salts, ditto snuffers and snuffpans,
silver teaspoons, teatongs, and saltshovels, ditto coral
and bells, paste, marcasite, pearl, and bead, necklaces
and earrings, gold wires, silver bowed scissars, and silver
tipped sheaths, lancet cases, watch chains and keys,
combs, pocketbooks, and etwee cases, freemason and
other broaches, paste sprigs and pins, tooth brushes, fine
Irish wafers, sword canes, and penknives, black bags
and roses, black pins, stay hooks, thimbles, silver shoe
clasps, fruit knives, dolls and other toys, with many
other articles too numerous to insert; all to be sold on
reasonable terms, for ready money only by
C. RATHELL.
*** At the same place may be had an exceeding fine
SILVER WATCH, capped, which runs on diamonds,
and a GOLD WATCH, with gold hands, and an en
graved case.
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.
A COCK MATCH,
TO be fought on Whitsuntide Monday, at Mr. Har-
dyman Dancy’s (or better known by the name of
Eggmond’s Ordinary) between the gentlemen of the up-
per and lower ends of Charles city. To shew 20 cocks
for 3£. a battle, and 15£. the odd one. There will be a
ball in the evening for the ladies.
THE treasurer, trustees, and subscribers, to the fund
for the relief of the widows and orphans of clergy-
men, collected last Sunday from the two audiences
25£. 14s. 5d. for which they beg leave to return their
thanks to the generous contributors. On the day fol-
lowing they ordered 80£. to be distributed among six wi-
dows, and the orphans of four clergymen, and appointed
officers for the ensuing year, namely, the reverend Mess.
John Camm, treasurer, Prince Davis, Devereaux Jarratt,
William Bland, John Bracken, Thomas Price, and
Thomas Lundie, trustees; William Harrison morning,
and Robert Andrews evening preacher.
The clergy have a most grateful sense of the presents
of 20£. and 3£. 2s. 6d. from two unknown persons, by the
hands of the reverend Mr. Henley. This acknowledg-
ment would have been made last year had not the said
charitable contributions come some days too late to be
inserted in our last year’s advertisement.
To be SOLD, on the premises, on the third Thursday
in June next,
THE very profitable ORDINARY, belonging to the
subscriber, at King William courthouse, with 600
acres of very valuable LAND adjoining to it. The place
is so well known that it is unnecessary to describe it, or
to point out, the advantage of its situation, which is so
central that it is daily resorted by travellers from all
parts; so that it has constant custom. The ordinary,
and some small tenements on the land, have rented for
170£. a year, and are now well worth 200£. a year, or
more. The purchaser may have possession the first day
of November next, and is to pay one fifth of the pur-
chase money that day, and one other fifth annually after,
until the whole is satisfied. Bond, with good security,
for the payment thereof, must be given to the subscriber,
who will treat privately with any person inclined to pur-
chase before the day of sale. JOHN QUARLES.
ON Wednesday the 14th of April last ran away from
the subscriber, in Westmoreland county, Thomas
Puttrell, an indented white servant man, by trade a
butcher, but understands gardening and farming, and
says he is acquainted with the business of a bricklayer
and plaisterer. This is the third time of his running
away, and when he went off before he was near two
months in the neighbourhood of Richmond town, and
lived with one Isaac Parker, and probably may be in that
part of the country now. In July last he was taken up
in Bedford county. He is a trunchy well made man, of
a fair complexion, has hazle eyes, brown hair, which
curls in his neck, is round faced, has very white teeth,
which he shews when he speaks or grins, and speaks
sharp and quick. He had the common apparel of ser-
vants, and he has a forged pass, signed by James Mose-
ley, master of the schooner Nancy, discharged from Alex-
andria, and is called a native of old Nansemond town in
Virginia. There went off with the said Thomas Putrell
an indented white servant man belonging to Thomas
Attwell of Westmoreland, who has likewise a forged
pass, signed by the same James Moseley, and is therein
called John Underwood, although his right name is Ed-
ward Duberg. He is a slim, well made man, near six
feet high, was a sailor, and has been in Spain, Portugal,
and France. He says he was brought up at Cambridge,
and pretends to understand Latin, French, Spanish,
Portuguese, and Dutch. He came in the Success’s In-
crease, captain Curtis, into Rappahanpock, and was sold
for a shcoolmaster. He robbed one Mrs. Hume of about
20£. worth of wearing apparel, among which were some
jewellery, caps, aprons, handkerchiefs, &c. which he
and Puttrell sold as they went along. The above servants
were seen on their way to Gloucester town, between
York and Rappahannock, and it is supposed they will
pass for sailors, and go to Norfolk, or make for Caro-
lina. Whoever apprehends them, so as they be delivered
to their masters shall have a reward of FOUR POUNDS
for each, besides what the law allows.
RICHARD LEE,
THOMAS ATTWELL.
FIVE POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away from my plantation near this place, last
night, two servant men, named George and John
Allen, very lately imported in the Justitia, consigned to
Mr. Thomas Hodge, at Leeds town. George is a likely
young fellow, about 25 years of age, 5 feet 10 or 11
inches high, stoops much, and is remarkable round
shouldered; had on when he went away a dark coloured
bearskin jacket and breeches, and a small round hat
with a black ribband and buckle. John is brother to
George, slender made, and two inches under his size;
had on the same sort of clothes, only a pair of old shoes
cut open at the toes. Any person who will apprehend
the said servants, and secure them so that I may get
them, shall be entitled to the above reward; and all per-
sons are hereby forewarned, as they may probably pre-
tend to pass for sailors, from carrying them out of the
country. THOMAS MONTGOMERIE.
DUMFRIES, April 25. 4
Just imported, and to be sold by the subscriber,
ON VERY RASONABLE TERMS,
A GENTEEL assortment of MILLINERY, in the
newest taste. Mecklin, Brussells, and minionet lace,
blond ditto, a variety of white and coloured silks, plain,
striped, and sprigged muslins, jewellery, childbed linen,
robes, ladies and gentlemens silk and cotton hose, Dids-
bury’s shoes, Gresham’s sattin and calimanco ditto, ladies
black and white riding hats, and many other articles.
WILLIAMSBURG, J. CHARLTON.
May 4, 1774.
FOR CHARTER,
THE ship CAESAR, William Wetherald, master, bur-
then about 450 hogsheads of tobacco, now lies at
Norfolk, and has made but one voyage. Apply to said
master. tf GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
*** On board of said ship is a quantity of Whitehaven
COAL, of the best quality, which will be sold very
cheap. Apply to Mr. Joseph Kidd, in Williamsburg.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, a bay horse, about 9
years old, branded on the near buttock SH, and
about 4 feet 10 inches high. Posted, and appraised to
12£. BENJAMIN CLARKE.
TAKEN up, in Lunenburg, a small roan sorrel
mare, about 4 feet 1 inch high, branded on the
near shoulder and buttock [upside down G], has a large blaze in her
face, her two hind feet white up to her hams, appears
to be about 10 or 12 years old, with a hanging mane
and switch tail. Posted and appraised to 3£. 10 s.
NICHOLAS HOBSON.
TAKEN up, in Fincastle, a sorrel horse, 4 years old,
13 hands and an inch high, with a white mane and
tail, his fore legs from the knees down almost white, and
the hoofs of his fore feet twist inwards, has a star in his
forehead, a small snip on his nose, branded on the near
jaw T, and has a bell on, with a leather collar and dou-
ble buckle. Posted, and appraised to 4£. 5s.
* THOMAS MONTGOMERY.
TAKEN up, in Fincastle, a black mare, about seven
years old, branded on the near shoulder A, with
4 white feet, and a blaze in her face, paces, is hipshot,
and about 13 hands 3 inches high. Posted, and ap-
praised to 7£. JAMES DAVIS.
For WHITEHAVEN,
THE ship OLIVE, Captain William Barrass, lies
at Broadways, on Appomattox, will sail early in
April, having three fourths of her cargo engaged, can
take in about one hundred hogsheads of tobacco, on
liberty of consignment. For terms apply to Mr. Bolling
Starke, in Petersburg, or us at Norfolk.
GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
KING HEROD
STANDS at Rosegill, and will cover mares at FOUR
POUNDS the season. Those who send mares must
send the money, otherwise they shall not be left. The
valuable qualities, and the pedigree, of this horse, are
sufficiently notorious.
RALPH WORMELEY, junior.
RUN away on the 20th of April last, from the sloop
FRIENDSHIP, William Johnston Rysam, master,
lying at York town, MINGO, a stout well made black
negro fellow, of a down cast look, limps on one side,
Virginia born, and about 35 years old, has been used to
plantation work and going by water. Whoever will deliver
him to William Reynolds, esquire, at York, John Perrin,
esquire, of Gloucester, or the subscriber, at Norfolk,
shall have THIRTY SHILLINGS reward, besides what
the law allows. 3 MATTHEW PHRIPP.
FINCASTLE county, to wit,
GEORGE the third, by the grace of God, of Great
Britain, France, and Ireland, king, defender of
the faith, &c. To the sheriff of Fincastle county, greet-
ing: We command you that you summon Francis Wil-
ley, an infant under the age of twenty one years, son
and heir of James Willey deceased, to appear before our
justices of our court of our said county, at the courthouse,
on the first Tuesday in next month, to answer a bill in
chancery, exhibited against him by William Calhoon;
and this he shall in no wise omit, under the penalty of
100£. and have then there this writ. Witness John Byrd,
clerk of our said court, this 9th day of June, in the 13th
year of our reign. * JOHN BYRD.
To be SOLD, by the subscriber, at Stafford courthouse,
on the 2d Monday in June next, if fair, otherwise the
first fair day,
THREE tracts of land, adjoining each other, and
lying in Stafford county, on Potowmack creek;
on one of which is a very commodious tavern, and other
necessary houses, garden, &c. within a few yards of the
courthouse. The situation is very advantageous for a
publican’s business, and remarkable for fish and fowl.
Fifteen acres of the land were laid down in timothy about
four years ago, and there are near 40 acres of marsh,
which might be easily reclaimed, and at a small expence.
Terms will be made known on the day of sale.
5 GEORGE DENT, junior.
FOR SALE,
And to be ENTERED upon at CHRISTMAS next,
A VERY valuable tract of LAND in King William
county, on Pamunkey river, adjoining the land of
the late Mr. John Smith, of Hanover county, deceased,
containing 800 acres, more or less, the soil is very rich,
and exceedingly well adapted for wheat, corn, or tobacco,
particularly the first and second, being low grounds;
and there is a considerable quantity of high grounds.
It has plenty of good pine and oak timber upon it, con-
venient houses, and is in good order for cropping, is
about two miles form Hanover town, and very convenient
to church and two mills. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may be shewn the land by applying to Mr. Christo-
pher Taliaferro, or Mr. William Jones, who resides near
the same, and the terms may be also known by applying
to these gentlemen, or to the subscriber.
tf THOMAS JONES.
To be sold, to the highest bidder, at Goochland court-
house, on Monday, the 20th of June, being court day,
A TRACT of rich, well timbered LAND, lying
opposite to Elk Island, in Goochland county, be-
longing to the estate of Mr. John Smith, deceased, con-
taining 2000 acres, which will be put up in four separate
lots. Likewise a tract containing between 3 and 400
acres, lying on both sides of the Little Bird creek, near
the head thereof, in the aforesaid county. Those lands
having been fully described in a former advertisement
renders it unnecessary here. The time of payment will
be made known on the day of sale, and bonds, with good
security, required of the purchasers.
9 WILLIAM ANDERSON, executor.
The noted swift HORSE
TRISTRAM SHANDY,
(now, perhaps, the fattest horse in<.em> VIRGINIA)
STANDS at my hosue, in the lower end of Caroline
county, and covers mares this season at 2£. 10s.
good pasturage gratis, and great care taken of the mares,
but will not be answerable for any that may get away.
TRISTRAM SHANDY was got by Morton’s Traveller,
his dam by Janus, out a very fine English mare.
5 JAMES UPSHAW.
To be SOLD, together or in parcels,
THAT fertile and well timbered tract of LAND,
lying in princess Anne county, known by the name
of GIBBS’S WOODS, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stands seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Persons inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy, in
Williamsburg, who will give an undoubted title. tf
GODOLPHIN,
A FULL blooded horse, by FEARNOUGHT, out of
an imported mare, will stand this season at Mr.
Richard Taylor’s, near Petersburg, to cover mares, at
TWENTY SHILLINGS the leap, or THREE
POUNDS the season, payable in October next. Those
gentlemen who are inclined to send mares may be assured
that the greatest care will be taken of them; but I will
not be answerable for any that shall get away.
GEORGE BAYLOR.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a slender made white mare,
dapple grey on each thigh, fleabitten on the head
and shoulders, with a hanging mane and switch tail, a-
bout 4 feet 6 inches high, no perceivable brand; had on
a large bell, with a patch on the inside, the collar of
which was fastened with a large buckle, Appraised to 6£.
ABRAHAM SMITH.
THURSDAY, JULY 21, 1774. THE NUMBER 428.
VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG, PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3s. the first Week,
and 2s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.———PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
The BRITISH AMERICAN.
NUMBER VIII.
FRIENDS, FELLOW CITIZENS, and COUNTRYMEN,
YOU are now to consider the second plan proposed: That
you shall immediately stop all exports and imports to and
from Great Britain and the West India islands till the tea
and Boston acts are repealed. This plan is recommended to
you by men who profess themselves resolutely determined to
oppose the arbitrary proceedings of the British parliament,
but at the same time with you to adopt moderate measures; and I am
convinced that they mean well, and are so heartily in earnest in their
professions and their wishes, that if they can be convinced that the plan
they propose will be the least effectual to avoid the jurisdiction claimed
by the British parliament, and the most violent and dangerous measure
which can be adopted, I have no doubt but they will readily give it up.
It will not only be justifiable but highly commendable in you to lessen
your imports from Great Britain, by confining yourselves to such articles
as are absolutely necessary, and which you cannot manufacture yourselves;
because unless you use the utmost frugality, the great balance which you
already owe to the British merchants will be constantly encreasing till
you become bankrupts; but to deny yourselves the common necessaries,
or even the conveniencies, of life, whilst you are able to pay for them,
in order to break off all connections with, and to distress, Great Britain,
is surely no moderate measure. That you have been cruelly treated is
certain; but in resenting that treatment you ought to distinguish between
your friends and your enemies, and not, drawcansir like, destroy all you
meet. The manufacturers of Britain never injured you, and probably
dislike the measurers of administration as much as you do; it will be cruel
in you to endeavour to starve them and their families for an insult to which
they were no way accessary. But it is said that if this plan is adopted,
the want of bread will lay them under a necessity of taking up arms, and
of forcing a repeal of the acts you complain of. Not to mention that a
measure, whose most distant prospect of success arises from forcing these
innocent people into actual rebellion, and introducing all the horrors of
a civil war in Britain, can never be deemed a moderate one, it would be
highly dishonourable in you, instead of drawing your own swords, and
facing your oppressors, like a brave people struggling for liberty, meanly
(to take the advantage of their necessities) to force a number of starving
wretches to expose themselves for your sakes to dangers you are afraid
to encounter yourselves; and your conduct would certainly be very
inconsistent in daring to refuse submission to British nobles, whilst,
conscious of your own degeneracy and cowardice, you meanly trusted
the preservation of your liberty to the bravery of British mechanics,
whose secret wishes to restrain your manufactures, whose honest contempt
of your shameful conduct, and whose pressing necessities for bread, would
more probably induce them to enlist as soldiers to enslave than protect
you. But consider a little further how far this scheme is practicable;
imagine yourselves in the situation you shortly will be after you have
adopted it. The want of salt will be a small inconvenience, but hickory
ashes, though a poor substitute, may supply the place of it as well to you
as it formerly did to the native Indians, and the live stock with which
you will abound, when you no longer export provisions, will in a great
measure render it unnecessary, by enabling you to kill fresh meat every
day. Nails, without slitting mills, will be made with great difficulty;
but logged cabbins may be built without them. Cloathes for yourselves
and negroes are not worth thinking of; because you may confine
yourselves and them to your houses in cold weather, and as you are to
export nothing, the summer season will afford you time amply sufficient to
raise provisions for your own use, and to lay in fuel for the winter. It
is true your stocks may suffer a little in the winter, but this inconvenience
may be remedied, in a great measure by providing such large quantities
of provender for them in the summer as to suffer it to be exposed to them
to go to, whenever they please, in weather too cold for naked men to
distribute it to them. Elegancies and even luxuries, which many of you,
by having been long accustomed to, now consider as the conveniencies,
if not the necessaries of life, may be resigned as baubles, beneath the
consideration of men who either desire or deserve to be free. The ladies,
indeed, will be subjected to many disagreeable hardships, but their
generous souls will submit to every inconvenience rather than see their
posterity enslaved; and the great leisure you will have from contracting
the cultivation of your lands will enable you to extend your manufactures
till you can supply yourselves with every convenience, with every elegance,
that rational men can desire. But till you can greatly improve your present
manufactures, you will allow, my countrymen, that your situations will
be rather uncomfortable. Are you certain that all America will chearfully
submit to this situation? Did those who signed the association in the days of
the stamp act religiously adhere to it? That there are some few refined souls
in every colony, perhaps in every county of each colony, that will sacrifice
their own private interest, subject themselves to every inconvenience, and
deny themselves almost the common necessaries of life, to promote the
public good, and to preserve the liberties of their country, I have no
doubt; because history furnishes instances that such disinterested, such
heroic characters, have existed, and I believe the inhabitants of America
are possessed of as much virtue as those of other nations; but to imagine
that all, or even a majority, of the inhabitants of a country, are possessed
of such exalted ideas of patriotism, is a romantic supposition, which
never has, nor, I fear, never will be warranted by the history of any
nation whatever. Nor can we flatter ourselves that this angelic exertion
of virtue will be general in America when we consider that many of her
present inhabitants are, like birds of passage, settled only for a time, for
the purposes of raising fortunes by trade, whose ultimate view is to
return, with the fortunes they acquire, to the connections they have left
behind them in Britain, and that there are others whose daily bread
depends upon the continuance of the laws we complain of. These two
sets of men, so far from observing such an association, will use every
artifice to evade it themselves, and try every stratagem to tempt the vain
to deceive the unwary, and to prevail upon the lukewarm to desert the
common cause; and a general defection from the plan, when once adopted,
can answer no other end than that of rendering you contemptible.
But even supposing that all America should unite, as one man, in
attempting this measure, the British aristocracy will never suffer you to
carry it into execution; for let it be remembered, that one of the rights
they claim is that of restraining your manufactures; and when you openly
avow a design of purchasing no more of their manufactures they will
immediately enforce that right of restraining you from making any of
your own. But surely, say the proposers of this plan, they cannot force
us to purchase from them whether we will or not. Very true; but if
you refuse to do so they will endeavour to prevent you from purchasing
those articles in any other market, and from making them yourselves.
But, say the proposers of this plan, they have no right to do this. Very
true; nor have they any right to make any kind of laws to govern you.
But they will endeavour to shew you that they have the power of doing
it; and though right and power are two distinct things, you may as well
acknowledge the right as to submit to the power of legislation; and if
you submit to the laws already made, you will soon have others, equally
arbitrary imposed upon you, for restraining your manufactures. For my
own part, I shall not be at all surprised if the very next session should
furnish us with acts of parliament enacting, “that your smiths shops
shall be destroyed as nuisances; tanning your own hides be declared
a misdemeanor; combing your own wool be punished with fine and
imprisonment; spinning your own flax subject you to the pillory; making
your own shoes be made felony without benefit of clergy; fabricating
your own hats incur a premunire; weaving any kind of cloth be deemed
an overt act of high treason; fashioning a canoe be chastised as an insult
upon the British flag; building a boat be constituted an unpardonable act
of rebellion; launching a ship be considered as an actual declaration of
war; trials by juries be exploded, as dangerous appeals to the people,
who are not to be trusted; new courts of admiralty be erected in their
room, whose judges shall hold their commissions during pleasure, and
be stimulated to enforce those acts, by sharing in the forfeitures and
confiscations occasioned by their own judgments; and to extinguish every
spark of public spirit, and to prevent a possibility of redress, your assem-
blies will be dissolved, and the people no longer permitted to elect repre-
sentatives, to urge their grievances, or to utter their complaints.” Do
not, my countrymen, be so blind to your own welfare, as to imagine I
am jesting upon this serious occasion, or that I am supposing acts of par-
liament which can never exist. Reflect upon the different acts for pre-
venting slitting mills; for erecting courts of admiralty for recovering the
inland forfeitures imposed by the stamp act; for suspending the legislature
of New York; for shutting up the port of Boston; for altering the
charter of New England, which was more solemnly granted by majesty
than their own magna charta; for screening the murtherers of the Ame-
ricans; and the joint address, for both houses of parliament to his
majesty, to transport the Americans themselves, to be imprisoned and
ruined, if not butchered, in England; and you will be convinced that the
cases I have supposed are by no means chimerical, and that there is no
act of intemperance, injustice, or despotism, which the British arisotocra-
cy will not attempt, to refrain America from manufacturing, the mo-
ment you declare your intention of doing so. To enter, therefore, into
associations against importing British manufactures, any farther than a
rational attention to your circumstances, is surely no moderate measure,
but must, at last, end in a humiliating submission, or oblige you to have
recourse to that force which the proposers of this plan would wish to
avoid.
Let us now consider whether an association against exporting your com-
modities would not be attended with still worse consequences: This plan,
if it means any thing, is to distress Great Britain. But surely you can-
not more effectually do this than by lessening your imports, and encreasing
your exports, as much as possible; for by selling your commodities to the
British merchants, and by taking none of theirs in exchange, you will
encrease your own wealth by exhausting that of Britain. but it is
objected, we are at present largely indebted to the British merchants:
The more incumbent it is upon you to export all the commodities you
can, to pay them as soon as possible; for you ought to have more grati-
tude than to attempt to ruin the families of those who have been kind
enough to furnish you not only with the elegancies, but the necessaries
of life. Common honesty requires that you should pay your debts, and
if you should refuse to do so, not only the persons injured, but all man-
kind, will judge unfavourably of you, and declare, that instead of brave-
ly contending for your liberties, you are knavishly endeavouring to cheat
your creditors. Such a national breach of faith will unite all Europe
against you, as a flagitious race of mortals, who do not deserve to be free;
who ought to be considered as the pests of human society, and as such
forced into submission, if not extirpated.
For God’s sake, my countrymen, let your conduct be such that you
shall be thought worthy of that freedom you contend for, and do not
render yourselves the objects of contempt and abhorrence; for if you
should even establish your liberty, in opposition to the united efforts of
all Europe to reduce you, it may never be in your power to manifest
your honest intentions of making retribution. Many of you and your
creditors may be dead before the dispute is decided, and then very with-
holding the sums you owe for a short period, from men in trade, may
irretrievably reduce the survivors and their families to ruin, and Ame-
rican become as proverbially infamous as punic faith.
But it is said, that by withholding your tobacco you will immediately
make the minister sensible of his folly, in the instant effect it will have
upon the revenue. But when you consider that the tax upon tobacco is
finally paid by the British inhabitants who consume it, and consequently
is actually raised in England, and if the tax ceases upon this luxury, the
same sum may be raised by laying it on some other, and that by doing
so, the subjects of Britain will pay no more than they do at present, or,
in other words, the same sum of money may be still raised, by altering
only the mode of raising it; the inconvenience will not be so great as
is at first sight imagined; and even supposing it otherwise, by giving this
temporary shock to administration, may you not fix a lasting inconve-
nience upon yourselves? Accustomed to the use of that commodity,
when they are no longer supplied by you, may not the inhabitants of
Britain look out for a supply of it from some other quarter? And may
you not lose that valuable branch of trade altogether? If there is no
danger of this, or if the loss of it should be thought not worth regreting,
at least confine your plan of non-importation to tobacco only, or, what
will be still wiser, determine to make no more of it till the points you
contend for are established. But to injure yourselves by devoting your
wheat and corn to be destroyed by the weavils and other vermin in your
own useless barns, will be indiscreet, to starve your fellow subjects and
fellow sufferers of the West Indies will be inhuman, and to encrease
the wealth of Great Britain, by raising to an exorbitant height the price
of her wheat and provisions in those foreign markets, which you at pre-
sent supply, will be downright madness to think of. Upon the whole,
policy, humanity, a just regard for your national character, gratitude,
and common honesty, all forbid you to adopt the second plan proposed,
as it would most certainly end in a scandalous and unpitied submission,
or introduce a civil war, aggravated with all the inconveniencies attending
a good cause turned into a bad one, by rash, indiscreet, and unjustifiable
measures. If we are obliged to struggle for our liberty, with arms in our
hands, let us not unerve the sinews of war. If we are at last forced,
through unwillingly, to draw the sword, let us do it in a just cause; let
us be careful that we are not the aggressors; let us point our resentment
against our oppressors; but let us not wound the bosoms of our friends;
let us conduct ourselves in such a manner as to raise the prayers of the
righteous for our success, and if we do fall, let us fall revered and la-
mented; but not execrated and despised by all mankind. But I am far
from thinking that you are yet in this desperate situation, and am not
without hopes that you may still establish your liberty without having
recourse to the decision of the sword. But to avoid this, it will be ab-
solutely necessary to convince your oppressors that you dare to do it rather
than be enslaved. The measures to be taken, in order to convince them,
naturally lead me to the consideration of the third plan proposed, which,
I confess, appears to me the most constitutional, the most rational, the
most moderate, and the most effectual measure you can pursue; and to
prove that it is so shall be the subject of my next. I shall conclude this
with one remark, which I submit to the serious attention of my coun-
trymen: You may remember that the second plan proposed came first
recommended to you from your friends on the other side the Atlantic.
Now, though many of the inhabitants of Great Britain think that the
British parliament have no right to tax you, and sincerely disapprove the
hostile and violent measures pursued by them against you, yet there is
not one man of them who does not insist that you ought to submit to the
supreme legislation of the British parliament, and therefore would wish
you to avoid every measure of contesting with success, the supremacy
they claim, of restraining your manufactures, and of securing to them-
selves the whole profit of your labours. Hence they will never advise
you to adopt any other than temporizing measures, to avoid the evil of
a present oppression, without considering, that to admit the dependence,
must one time or other necessarily end in despotism to them, and slavery
to you. Again, the British people are of two factions: The first consists
Mrs. RIND,
BY giving the enclosed a place in your next paper you will oblige the
public, and a number of your customers, besides
Your very humble servant,
VIRGINIANUS.
ALARMING SOLILOQUYS.
I. What nation was it that twice joined the French in the plan for
abolishing the protestant religion, therefore invited the pretender over to
Britain, and then assisted him with all their might to usurp the govern-
ment of England by force, thereby to subject all true protestants to
popish persecution, or death?———Why it was the rebellious Scotch.
II. Who was it that planned the ruin of American liberty by framing
and instituting the stamp act, together with the rest of those most odious
and oppressive revenue acts for imposing a tax on the Americans, without
their consent?———Why the Scotch.
III. Who was it that so far abused the power and authority entrusted
with them by a deluded K—g, as to perpetrate the enforcing the said
acts, by sending fleets and armies to distress loyal subjects in America?——
Why the Scotch.
IV. Whose influence over a corrupt parliament was it that has shaken
the very constitution of England by disannulling the almost unanimous
election of the freeholders of Middlesex?———Why it was the Scotch.
V. Who are they that are now aiming at arbitrary and tyrannic
power in almost every part of the English dominions?———Why are they
not the Scotch?
VI. Why then every American who joins with the Scotch, in oppo-
sition against his own countrymen, ought to be deemed an enemy to
liberty and his country, and therefore should forever by despised and
discountenanced by every one who values his property or his freedom.
To the author who stiles himself AN ENGLISHMAN.
SIR,
I HAVE perused your performance of June last, in the NORFOLK
INTELLIGENCER: It contains reflections highly injurious
to the honour of our last assembly, and evinces principles of the most
dangerous tendency to the welfare of this country, and though, if left
to itself, its influence would be small or the sensible and discerning, yet
as all mankind are not thus circumstanced, there arises a necessity that
the doctrines it inculcates should be sufficiently exposed. I do not
expect, by this publication, to alter your opinion (that, I fear, will
require a stronger effort than argument) but such only of my country-
men, who from inattention to questions of this nature, may be liable to
imposition. I own, I wish the public had as fair a view of you as of
your production, that they might bestow such indelible marks of their
approbation as the peculiar nature of the service requires. Your position
that a constitution both wise and happy in its original principles is able to give
her laws weight in the remotest corners of the state proves nothing; it may
be admitted, without the least prejudice to the American cause: For
such a constitution, while she preserved her primitive purity, could never
affect her distant provinces by any measures participating of such prin-
ciples. Its wisdom would be a security against oppression, and its
diffusive happiness a blessing to the whole; for what constitution, that
was wise and happy in its creation, ever had despotism for the object?
But it is known, from unhappy experience, that states, as well as men,
frequently depart from their first principles. This was the case of the
republic of Rome, and I fear, too, is the case with Britain. Rome
had wisdom and virtue, the surest pledge of happiness, for its basis; and
political liberty was the consequence. As long as she adhered to the
design of her constitution she flourished, and became the mistress of the
world; till luxury and venality, more hostile to her quiet than legions
of armies, at first controuled and then destroyed her; and now she is as
The baseless fabric of a vision.
To extend the comparison, is replete with horror; but let all true
Englishmen beware, that by introducing despotism into their provinces,
they open a door into their own vitals. But to pursue the subject of
British supremacy, the controverting of which, has drawn these severe re-
flections on our late assembly; and let me ask, from whence this inward
conviction of their supreme right is derived? It is really the result of sober
reason, or the frantic ebullition of a disordered mind? Or does it proceed
from some other cause, which prudence thought proper to conceal? If
from the former, who was not the position proved by argument? Why
rashly condemn a respectable body (even of Americans) and turn them
over to such a chastisement as government shall be please to inflict with-
out first demonstrating their guilt? A certainty of the crime should
surely precede the punishment. This is the mode of proceeding in that
country which you glory in as your greatest honour; it was then (prior
to censure) a necessary duty to have satisfied the public the right of tax-
ation was in the British parliament; for if it is not, the opposition was
strictly consistent, and the quartering troops on the town of Boston, to
enforce non-existent laws, is unquestionably hostile invasion. But it is
easy to be discovered why you did not attempt to prove your political
thesis: You well knew the enquiry would have been involved in such a
labyrinth of absurdity, that human invention could not have afforded
assistance; more exalted penmen have beat the tract before you with
equal success. The immortal Locke and Sidney have formed such in-
vincible obstacles that the wiles of sophistry shall never prevail against
them. Those ornaments of the English nation have laid it down as an
undeniable principle that liberty is a blessing to which the whole race of
mankind have an original title, whereof nothing but unlawful force can
divest them. And let me now enquire why the Americans should be
exempted from the rights of human nature? Were they not born as free
as the people of England? Are not their assemblies as fair a representa-
tive of the people as the parliament of Great Britain? And have not
those assemblies been acknowledged by government? Are they not sub-
jects of the same king? Doth not the same sun shine over them? And
have they not the same God for their protector? Am I a freeman in
England, and do I, by the magical influence of a prime minister, be-
come a slave again in twenty days, by crossing the Atlantic? This indeed
is strange ! is passing strange! and only reconcileable to those determined
on injustice. It is alledged that our delegates were culpable in departing
from the object recommended by the executive power; by this, I pre-
sume, is meant, the not raising supplies, as it seems there was not ne-
cessity for lending their assistance to the expiring fee bill. But here I
cannot but approve of their conduct in refusing to grant to his majesty,
before they knew they had any thing to give; for if the British parlia-
ment have a right to impose taxes, it evidently follows, our own assem-
blies have not, for that would be reducing us to a state of complex
taxation; an absurdity not to be tolerated by the English constitution.
But every measure tending to controvert the supreme power of Britain is
viewed through the medium of a false perspective, or else the setting
apart a day for humiliation and prayer could never have given offence.
Certainly to return good for evil, to pray for them that despitefully use
you, is in strict conformity to the christian tenets. What sarcasm or
injury could be intended by imploring the Divinity, that the parliament
might receive a greater portion of wisdom; unless, indeed, it is thought they
are at present so overcharged as not to be capable of admitting an addition?
If this is the case, they require not the assistance of prayer; but if the
fact is not so, with respect to that august body, it is surely a friendly
office in those who interpose for an encrease. The imputation of our
being impressed with visionary ideas of democratical happiness is as void
of truth as of probability. No people existing are more loyal, no go-
vernment is so favourable to our religion as that of a limited monarchy;
and the annals of our country evince we were so much attached to it as
even to proclaim a Stewart long before they had got quit of their repub-
lican ideas in England. But to encounter the heavy charge of dishonesty,
in declining all commercial intercourse (for this is the very bug-bear of
every brooding cynic) the fear of incurring the reputation of national
injustice, is, I own, extremely laudable, and ought to be encouraged in
every well regulated community; but it is still to be remembered that
positive laws ought in some instances to give way to those of necessity.
There is a time when we must have recourse to original principles; when
no longer fettered by human institutions, we obey the unchangeable
laws of nature. The guarding ourselves against an impending danger,
and the using the means of prevention, is not only tolerated by the
mind. The principle of self-preservation runs throughout the whole ani
mal existence. In these cases the action is discovered to be just, or unjust,
by a comparison with the cause which produced it, and wherever the
evil originated, stamps the denomination. If it did not proceed from
us, a necessary act of self-defence, to avert that evil, cannot be attri-
buted as a crime, but a virtue. I do not insist that such an expedient
ought to be adopted. I leave the discussion to men of more enlightened
understandings. But if necessity should evince its utility, that it is not
unjust, especially as it is intended as a temporary suspension, not an ex-
tinction of right, and the injured will always have it in their power, by
removing the cause, to remove the effect also, it may bear hard on some
who have the inclination and not the ability to befriend us; but how
can such be distinguished? We can be viewed only in the light of distinct
societies; the separation is impracticable, and, in a constitutional sense,
all are supposed to have consented to the acts of those who represent
them. I would recommend to such as may be affected a submission,
without murmuring, to whatever may be the general sense of the peo-
ple. I think, in gratitude they ought. They have long enjoyed the
benefits of an exclusive trade. If we believe an authority of the highest
repute, their estates in England have been raised from 15 to 30 years
purchase, and the encreased opulence of the united kingdom is scarcely to
be imagined. I could heartily with justice could be obtained without
having recourse to so critical an experiment. A knowledge of what is
past, however, has demonstrated that our complaints are only regarded
by the consequences produced by our measures. But if we credit the
assertions of theEnglishman, all our friends act from selfish principles.
This I do not believe any more than that the person who asserts the
fact is really what he pretends he is. His principles of passive obedience,
and ignorance of the constitution, convince me he is much better acquaint-
ed with the rescript of the emperor than with any tract of English juris-
prudence. The character of Mr. Pitt I shall not attempt to defend; it
requires no protection from argument; the history of his country is his
best panegyric; the splendour of a title could not have attracted his at-
tention, because no title on earth could ennoble him. Those patriots in
the house of commons, who had the rectitude to withstand the tempta-
tion of plundered provinces, did all that men could do in their situ-
ation. Their not doing more for the public good was not owing
to a want of virtue in themselves, but a want of it in those with whom
they contended. They pointed out to their countrymen, the avenues to
prosperity and happiness. Cicero, Brutus, and Cato, did the same; but
such was the supremacy of all commanding gold,* that the most salutary
admonition, only reflected ignominy and insult on the person who gave
it. The measure of iniquity was full, and they preached to the air.
But let not my countrymen be alarmed with imaginary dangers, from
an opposition of government. There is no law which prevents an in-
jured people from meeting to deliberate on public grievances. If such
assemblies had been unlawful, the meeting at the London Tavern would
not have been permitted. The solid pursuits of government, with respect
to supremacy, can only be obstructed by as solid pursuits in the people.
Our ancestors braved the greatest dangers in defence of their liberties;
witness those glorious atchievements in the days of the haughty Plan-
tagenet, and of the arbitrary Stewart.; Let them not be dishonoured
in the conduct of their descendants; remember the contest is with sub-
jects, and the prize is liberty. I am, with as great loyalty to my king,
and as sincere a regard for the constitution as dwells in the heart of any
Englishman upon earth, your obedient servant,
AMERICANUS.
* Urbem venalem & mature perituram si emptorem in venerit, are the expressions of JUGURTHA.
To Mrs. RIND.
MADAM,
THE generous disposition that I found prevailing in the county of
Westmoreland to relieve their worthy distressed fellow subjects in
BOSTON, by subscribing a supply of grain to be sent for their use
whilst they continue under the cruel oppression of ministerial tyranny,
led me naturally to reflect on the great advantages derived to human
nature from the benevolent passions implanted in the human breast by
the great author of our existence. Both humanity and found policy
appear to recommend this, or similar measures, to all the counties in
this colony, and to all British America. The brave people of Boston
are certainly suffering in the common cause of British liberty; but he
must be senseless as the earth he treads on who sees not that the attack
on Boston is the beginning of a wicked system to enslave all North
America, by compelling submission to arbitrary taxes from one colony at
a time, until all are made to bend beneath the yoke of oppression, and
quietly to yield their property into the hands of lawless violence.
BENEVOLUS.
Mrs. RIND,
By inserting the following CARD you will oblige many.
A VIRGINIAN presents his compliments to the JOCKEY CLUBS
of Fredericksburg and Portsmouth, and begs that they will sup-
press their sporting spirit till the circumstances of America can permit
it with more decency. He also begs leave to recommend it to the most
serious consideration of these clubs, whether their purses, applied to the
relief of the distressed BOSTONIANS, would not afford them more
real pleasure than all that can arise from viewing a painful contest be-
tween two or three animals?
HERE FOLLOW THE RESOLVES ENTERED INTO BY
DIFFERENT COUNTIES IN VIRGINIA.
ON Monday the 18th of July the freeholders and other inhabitants of
York county met, according to public notice, at the courthouse in
York, to consider what was to be done in the present distressed and
alarming situation of affairs throughout the British colonies in America.
THOMAS NELSON, junior, esquire, being unanimously chosen moderator,
opened the business of the meeting with the following ADDRESS,
to the people:
Friends and Countrymen,
WE are met to-day upon one of the most important matters that can
engage the attention of men. You are all well acquainted with the
attacks which have lately been made by the British parliament upon,
what is dearer to Americans than their lives, their liberties. You have
heard of the acts of oppression which have passed against a sister colony,
under which it is now actually groaning, and you must be sensible that
this is only a prelude to the designs of parliament upon every other part
of this wide extended continent. In this light did our late truly patriotic
and honourable house of burgesses regard it, and I am not now to inform
you what has been the consequence. Our assembly has been dissolved,
our country left without laws for its government, and without means of
defending itself against an invading enemy. In this melancholy situation
of things, many of our late worthy representatives convened in Wil-
liamsburg, and there agreed, after they should collect the sentiments of
the people throughout the colony, to meet again on the first day of
August next, and concert such measures as would be most likely to pro-
cure us a speedy redress of our grievances, and security against them for
the time to come. You are now called together to deliberate upon these
matters, to chuse who shall represent you in the approaching important
meeting, and to furnish them with your sentiments upon those things
which are to come before them. I need not observe how much you are
concerned in the event of their proceedings. You all know what it is
to be FREE MEN; you know the blessed privilege of dong what you
will with your own, and you can guess at the misery of those who are
deprived of this right. Which of these will be your case depends upon
your present conduct. We have found already that petitions and remon-
strances are ineffectual, and it is now time that we try other expedients.
We must make those who are endeavouring to oppress us feel the effects
of their mistaken, of their arbitrary policy; for not till then can we
expect justice from them. From the public papers we learn the senti-
ments of many of the counties of Virginia, and it appears that they
think it necessary for the accomplishing of their purposes to drop, till
they are redressed, alll commercial intercourse with Great Britain.
Whether consistently with justice, as a people in dept, we can stop our
exports, is a point which seems doubtful; but that imports ought to be
prohibited necessity demands, and no virtue forbids. It is not supposed
that we can do this without subjecting ourselves to many inconveniencies;
but inconveniencies, when opposed to a loss of freedom, are surely to be
disregarded. Besides, I am told, by men acquainted with these things,
that the goods already in the country, and those expected in the fall,
will be sufficient to supply the wants of all Virginia for two years. In
the mean time, we must, if our grievances be not redressed, turn our
attention to the breeding of sheep, the raising of flax, hemp, and cotton,
and to manufactures. It is true, we must resign the hope of making
fortunes; but to what end should we make fortunes, when they may be
taken from us at the pleasure of others? I hope you will take these
matters into your most serious consideration. Weigh them with that
attention which matters of such moment merit. Determine with
wisdom and moderation; and, once determined, let no difficulties or
dangers shake your resolutions.
It was then unanimously resolved, that as the constitutional assemblies
of Virginia have been prevented from exercising their right of providing
for the security of the liberties of the people, that right again reverts to
the people, as the fountain from whence all power and legislation flow;
a right coeval with human nature, and which they claim from the eternal
and immutable laws of nature’s God.
Resolved also, that DUDLEY DIGGES, and THOMAS NELSON,
junior, esquires, do attend at the city of Williamsburg, on the first day
of August next, in a general convention from the other counties in
Virginia, there to exert their utmost abilities to put a stop to that grow-
ing system of ministerial despotism which has so long threatened the de-
struction of America.
And that you, our delegates, may be made acquainted with the sentiments
of the people of this county, it is their opinion that you proceed to chuse
proper persons to represent the colony of Virginia in a general congress
of America, to meet at such time and place as may hereafter be agreed
on.
That these representatives be instructed to form a declaration of Ameri-
can rights, setting forth that British America, and all the inhabitants there-
of, shall be and remain in due subjection to the crown of England, and
to the illustrious family of the throne; submitting by their own voluntary
act, and enjoying all the freedoms and privileges of the free people of
England; that it is the first law of legislation, and of the British con-
stitution, that no man shall be taxed but by his own consent, expressed
either by himself or his representative; that the Americans cannot be
represented in the British parliament; and therefore, that every edict of
the British parliament imposing any tax or custom, duty, or imposition
whatsoever, on the people of America, without their consent, is illegal,
and subversive of the first principles of the British constitution, and of
the natural rights of men; that it is the undoubted right and true interest
of the sovereign, as supreme ruler of the whole empire, to provide for
the welfare of his subjects within the realm at the head of the British
parliament, and of those in America at the head of his American assem-
blies, by laws adapted to their local situation, and suited to the exigences
of each; and, by that negative with which he is invested by the consti-
tution, to restrain the different states of his extensive dominion from
enacting laws to destroy the freedom, and prejudice the interests, of one
another; that the king, in his British parliament, shall have a supremacy
for regulating the trade of America, with this reasonable reserve, that
all the British colonies enjoy a free trade with each other; and that no
tax, duty, or imposition whatsoever, be laid by the British parliament,
on any article which the American colonies are obliged to import from
Great Britain only; and that this right of supremacy be deemed or
expressed a resignation by our own voluntary act, flowing from a just
sense of the protection we have hitherto received from Great Britain.
And farther, the people of this county are of opinion that the act of
the British parliament laying a duty on tea, for the purpose of raising a
revenue, to be collected in America without her consent, is an illegal tax.
That the act which blocks up the port of Boston destroys her trade,
and subjects her inhabitants to the worst of inconveniencies and hard-
ships, is oppressive and unconstitutional; that the people of Boston in-
curred the displeasure of parliament by a just defence of their liberties
and properties; and that the cause for which they suffer is the general
cause of every British colony in America.
That the bill, commonly called the murdering bill, if passed into an
act, is not only unconstitutional, but shocking to human nature; that
its evident design is to privilege the soldiers to commit with impunity
the most cruel outrages even against the lives of Americans, whist it
cuts off from an accused American every hope of being acquitted.
That the most effectual means of obtaining a speedy redress of Ame-
rican grievances is to put a stop to imports from Great Britain, with as
few exceptions as possible, until the said oppressive acts be repealed, and
American rights established; and that what relates to exports be left
to the determination of the convention in August.
That industry and frugality be adopted, in their largest extent,
throughout this colony; and that horse-racing, and every other species
of expensive amusement, be laid aside, as unsuitable to the situation of
the country, and unbecoming men who feel for its distresses.
That the first day of September next, or the time of the general con-
gress, be set apart as a day of prayer and supplication to the almighty
disposer of human events, to direct the counsels of the Americans, and
so to dispose the heart of our sovereign, that a general harmony may be
restored to the British empire.
That a subscription be immediately opened for the relief of the inha-
bitants of BOSTON, under the direction of the deputies for this coun
ty, who are desired to promote and encourage the same.
That the above resolves and opinions be published in the Virginia
Gazette. WILLIAM RUSSELL, Clerk.
Business being finished, the deputies were invited to a genteel enter-
tainment provided for them by the inhabitants of York county, as a
testimony of their entire approbation of the conduct of these gentlemen.
At a meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants of the county of New Kent,
at the courthouse of the said county, on Tuesday the 12th day of July, 1774,
THOMAS ADAMS, esquire, being first chosen moderator, and WILLIAM
CLAYTON, esquire, clerk, the present state of America being seriously and
duly considered, the following RESOLUTIONS were proposed and agreed to
as an instruction to our deputies hereafter named.
RESOLVED, that our sovereign lord king George the third is lawful and
rightful king of Great Britain, and all his dominions in America, to whose
royal person and government we profess all due subjection, obedience, and fidelity,
and that we will at all times defend and protect the just rights of his majesty
with our lives and fortunes.
Resolved, that the inhabitants of the British colonies in America are entitled
to all the rights, liberties, and privileges, of freeborn English subjects.
Resolved, that the rights to impose taxes, or duties, to be paid by the inha-
bitants of this dominion, for any purpose whatever, is peculiar and essential to
the general assembly, in whom the legislative authority of the colony is placed,
and that taxation and representation are inseparable.
Resolved, that the trial by a jury of the vicinage is the glory of the English
law, and the best security for the life, liberty, and property, of the subject,
and is the undoubted birthright of all his majesty’s freeborn American subjects.
Resolved, that the several acts and resolutions of the parliament of Great
Britain, made during his present majesty’s reign, imposing taxes on the inhabi-
tants of America, for the express purpose of raising a revenue, and for alter-
ing the nature or punishment of offences committee in America, or the method of
trial of such offences, are unconstitutional, arbitrary, and unjust, and destruc-
tive of the rights of America, and that we are not bound to yield obedience to
any such acts.
Resolved, that the late cruel, unjust, and sanguinary, acts of parliament,
to be executed by military force, and ships of war, upon our sister colony of the
Massachusetts Bay, and town of Boston, is a strong evidence of the corrupt
influence obtained by the British ministry in parliament, and a convincing proof
of their fixed intention to deprive the colonies of their constitutional rights and
liberties.
Resolved, that the cause of the town of Boston is the common cause of all the
American colonies.
Resolved, that is it the duty and interest of all the American colonies firmly
to unite in an indissoluble union and association to oppose, by every just and
proper means, the infringements of their rights and liberties.
Resolved,* that we do heartily approve of the resolutions and proceedings of
our several late assemblies for asserting and supporting the just rights and liber-
ties of America, from their patriotic resolves in 1765 to this time.
Resolved, that we will most firmly unite with the other counties in this colony
in such measures as shall be approved of by a majority, as the best and most
proper method of preserving our rights and liberties, and opposing the said
unconstitutional acts of parliament.
Resolved, that the most effectual method of opposing the said several acts of
parliament will be to break off all commercial intercourse with Great Britain
until the said acts shall be repealed.
Resolved, that the several counties within this colony ought to nominate and
appoint for every county proper deputies, to meet upon the first day of August
next, in the city of Williamsburg, then and there to consult and agree upon
the best and most proper means for carrying into execution these or any other
resolutions which shall be best calculated to answer the purposes aforesaid.
Resolved, that it be earnestly recommended to the deputies at the said general
convention to nominate and appoint fit and proper persons on behalf of this colony,
to meet such deputies as shall be appointed by the other colonies, in general con-
gress, to consult and agree upon a firm and indissoluble union and association for
preserving, by the best and most proper means, their common rights and liber-
ties.
Resolved, that BURWELL BASSETT and BARTHOLOMEW
DANDRIDGE, esquires, our late and present worthy representatives, be
and they are hereby nominated and appointed deputies, on the part and behalf
of the freeholders and inhabitants of this county, to meet such deputies as shall
be appointed by the other counties within this colony, in the city of Williams-
burg, on the first day of August next, or at any other time or place for the
purpose aforesaid.
Resolved, further, that our said deputies agree to join in any proper means
that shall be adopted for the immediate relief of the present necessities of the
inhabitants of the town of Boston.
Resolved, that the clerk transmit the foregoing resolutions and instructions
to the printer, to be published.
WILLIAM CLAYTON, clerk of the meeting.
At a meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of Essex county, at
the courthouse thereof, on Saturday the 9th of July, 1774, seriously to con-
sider the present dangers which threaten ruin to American liberty, Mr. JOHN
UPSHAW being chosen moderator, the following RESOLVES were proposed
and unanimously agreed to.
I. RESOLVED, that we will, at all times, and upon all occasions, bear
true and faithful allegiance to his majesty king George the third, and that, as
freemen, we always have been, and ever shall be, willing constitutionally to
give and grant liberally our property for the support of his crown and dignity,
and the preservation of our parent state; but that we can never consent to
part with it on any other terms.
II. Resolved, that the legislature of this colony, for the purpose of internal
taxation, is distinct from that of Britain, founded upon the principles of the
British constitution, and equal, in all respects, to the purposes of legislation and
taxation within this colony.
III. Resolved, that the people of this colony in particular, and of America
in general, have a clear and absolute right to dispose of their property by their
own consent, expressed by themselves or by their representatives in assembly,
and any attempt to tax, or take their money from them in any other manner,
and all other acts tending to enforce submission to them, is an exertion of power,
contrary to natural justice, subversive of the English constitution, destructive
of our charters, and oppressive.
IV. Resolved, that the town of Boston, in our sister colony of Massachusetts
Bay, is now suffering in the common cause of North America, for their just
opposition to such acts; and it is indispensibly necessary that all the colonies
should firmly unite in defence of our common rights.
V. Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that an agreement to
stop all exports to, and imports from, Great Britain and the West Indies,
firmly entered into and religiously complied with, will at all times, prove a
safe and infallible means of securing us against the evils of any unconstitutional
and tyrannical acts of parliament, and may be adopted upon the principles of
self preservation, the great law of nature.
VI. Resolved, that the inhabitants of this county will firmly join with the
other counties in this colony, and the other colonies on this continent, or a ma-
jority of them, to stop all exports to, and imports from, Great Britain and
the West Indies, and all other parts of the world, except the colonies of North
America, if such a measure shall be deemed expedient by the deputies at the
general congress, and that whatever agreement the congress shall come to, for
the advantage of the common cause of North America, relating to exports,
imports, or otherwise, ought to be considered as binding as any act of legislature,
and that we will use our utmost endeavours to support and maintain such gene-
ral agreement, at the expence of our lives and fortunes.
VII. Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that the several courts
in this colony ought not to proceed to the forwarding or trial of civil causes until
our exports are opened.
VIII. Resolved, that is is the opinion of this meeting, that the East India
company, having a design to monopolize a great part of the American trade, to
the injury of the other merchants of Britain trading to America, and knowing
well the fatal consequences that must have resulted from their fixing a pre-
cedent for future taxes, by importing tea into the colonies, became the willing
instruments of the ministry to destroy American liberty, and deserve the loss they
have sustained.
IX. Resolved, that we do most heartily concur with our late worthy repre-
sentatives in their resolve for the disuse of tea, and that we will not hereafter
purchase any East India commodities whatsoever.
X. Resolved, that the spirited conduct of the town of Boston hath been
serviceable to the cause of freedom (all other methods having failed) and that
no reparation ought to be made to the East India company, or others their
assistants, for any injury they have sustained, unless it be the express condition
on which all our grievances shall be removed.
XI. Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that any general cen-
sure upon the conduct of the town of Boston respecting the tea, without allow-
ing to them the motives of resistance upon the principles of public virtue and
necessity, is inimical to American liberty, and we are persuaded that none but
ministerial hirelings, and professed enemies of American freedom, will adopt a
language so impolitic, which manifestly tends to create a disunion of sentiments,
at this time, fatal to America.
XII. Resolved, that the parliament have no right to pass an act to remove
our persons to Great Britain, or any other place whatsoever, to be tried for
any offence, and that we are determined not to submit thereto.
XIII. Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that no merchant in
this, or any other colony on this continent, shall advance the goods now on hand
higher than they are at present, or have been for some time, and that the mer-
chants in the several counties sign an agreement to that effect.
XIV. Resolved, that a subscription be set on foot for raising provision for
the poor of Boston, who now suffer by the blocking up their ports, and that
Robert Beverly, John Lee, and Muscoe Garnett, in Saint Anne’s parish,
and Archibald Ritchie, and John Upshaw, in the upper part of Southfarnham
parish, and Meriwether Smith, and James Edmondson, in the lower part
thereof, take in subscriptions for that purpose, who are to consign what may
be raised to some proper person to be distributed, and the before mentioned gen-
tlemen are empowered to charter a vessel to send it to Boston.
XV. Resolved, that this meeting have the deepest sense of the injuries in
which the merchants and manufacturers of Great Britain must necessarily be
involved by a non-importation resolution, they having placed an almost un-
limited confidence in us for a series of years, and by that means have the
greatest part of their fortunes lodged in our hands, and that nothing but the
desire of preserving our rights and liberties could induce us to adopt a measure
big with such melancholy consequences.
XVI. Resolved, that JAMES EDMONDSON, and WILLIAM ROANE,
esquires, the late representatives of this county, be and they are hereby ap-
pointed deputies to represent us at the general meeting of deputies for the several
counties in this colony, on the 1st day of August, in Williamsburg, and we
desire that they will exert their best abilities for the security of our constitutional
rights and liberties, and to appoint deputies to meet, at the general congress,
the deputies of the other colonies on this continent.
XVII. Resolved, that the clerk transmit the foregoing proceedings to the
printers, to be published, in their gazettes.
WILLIAM YOUNG, Clerk of the meeting.
At a general meeting of the inhabitants of the county of Dinwiddie,
at the courthouse, on Friday the 15th of July, in consequence of pre-
vious notice from their late representatives, and an intimation of their
desire to be advised and instructed, relative to the differences now un-
happily subsisting between Great Britain and her colonies, after mature
deliberation on this most interesting subject, they unanimously came to
the following declaration of their sentiments, which are intended to ma-
nifest to the world the principles by which they are actuated in a dispute
so important, as that they conceive, on its decision, depends the political
existence of all America.
WE, the inhabitants of the county of Dinwiddie, do entertain the
most cordial and unfeigned affection and loyalty for his majesty’s person
and government, which, together with his right to the crown of Great
Britain, and its dependencies, we will at all times defend and support,
at the risk of our lives and fortunes, and under so true a conviction of
the firmest allegiance, we think ourselves entitled, as a constitutional
right, to protection from that sovereign to whom we have been ever
attached by the strongest ties of duty and inclination. But however
happy we may consider ourselves under the auspices of thei supreme ma-
gistrate, we cannot help being apprehensive of the ill effects which may
flow from some recent and dangerous innovations, imagined and con-
trived in the house of commons, against those rights to which the Ame-
ricans have a just and a constitutional claim in common with his majesty’s
subjects of Great Britain. Amongst these instances of oppression we
cannot omit the parliament’s retention of a duty on tea, accompanied
by an act declaratory of their right in the fullest manner to tax America,
thereby asserting in other terms their claim to whatever property the
Americans may by their labour acquire, which submitted to, would re-
duce us to a degree of servility unexampled but in a state of despotism;
and yet inconsistent as this plan of substituting power for right may ap-
pear with the noble and liberal spirit of the British government, it has
been adopted for some time by administration, and pursued with a per-
severance that becomes truly alarming. A late and striking proof of
which we have to lament in the unprecedented acts of parliament for
cutting off the people of Boston from every privilege valued by free men,
and subjecting them to hardships unknown but in arbitrary governments.
In pursuance of which acts their town and harbour are blocked up, all
commerce interdicted, and articles merely essential to life only imported,
and as a matter of favour, and an inducement to submission. A part of
their property may be held at the King’s pleasure, on the humiliating
condition of their living in obedience to such laws. To aggravate these
evils, should the most atrocious murder be committed in enforcing the
execution of any of these acts, the civil power is forbid to punish, but
the criminal is to be sent for trial to Great Britain, or to any colony, at
the will of the governor; if to the former the distance will operate to
his acquittal for want of testimony; if the latter method is adopted it is
equally a subversion of the legal form of trial. This proves in what esti-
mation our lives are with a British Parliament, as the first law shews in
what light they consider our property.
Upon these distressful circumstances we sincerely sympathize with our
fellow subjects of Boston, and will concur with them and the rest of the
colonies in any measures that may be conductive to a repeal of laws so de-
structive to our common rights and liberty.
And though we do not pretend to justify the outrage committed by
the people of Boston in destroying the private property of the East India
company, to which they might have been impelled by an apparent inten-
tion in the parliament of fixing on them a precedent of arbitrary taxa-
tion, yet we cannot see the good policy or right reason that could dictate
the depriving a whole people of their rights for a trespass committed by
a few, when the civil laws of the community were amply provident of
redress for the injury.
The result of our opinion upon these violent measures is, that we do
protest against every law or act of the British legislature that shall autho-
rise the imposition of taxes on the Americans without their consent,
which cannot be had in parliament, as they have no representation, nor
ought not to have in that body from local circumstances and other consi-
derations, and because it is the proper, exclusive, and indefeasible right, of
every free state, especially under the British form of government, to be
taxed only by themselves or their representatives.
We further declare, that upon all occasions when requisitions shall be
made to us by the crown for aids in support of his majesty’s just rights,
or those of government, we will most chearfully comply with them to
the utmost of our ability; but we cannot think a British parliament fit
judges of the mode by which, or the degree in which, we ought to be
taxed.
And whereas a convention of the late representatives of this colony
was judged expedient, and was appointed after their dissolution to be held
the first day of August next, at Williamsburg, then to consult upon the
most plausible means of avoiding the dangerous precedents of acts of
power now intended to be established against us, to promote on our part
this laudable design, we do appoint our late representatives, ROBERT
BOLLING, and JOHN BANISTER, esquires, deputies, to act for us
on this important occasion, recommending it to them to concert with
the deputies from the other counties a firm and prudent plan of opposition
to every invasion of our rights, and particularly to those acts of parlia-
ment we have pointed out. Confiding in their vigilance and attention,
we wish them in their endeavours the success that so good a cause merits.
At a meeting of a respectable body of the freeholders and other inha-
bitants of the county of Surry, on due notice, at the courthouse of the
said county, the 16th of July, 1774, ALLEN COCKE, esquire, mo-
derator, the proceedings and resolutions of the late members of the
house of burgesses since their dissolution, respecting the alarming situation
of North America, were seriously deliberated upon, and the following
RESOLVES unanimously agreed to.
I. RESOLVED, that we acknowledge all due obedience to his pre-
sent majesty, and will defend him with our lives and fortunes.
II. Resolved, that as British subjects, who know the invaluable
blessings of their birthright, we will not submit to the imposition of
any taxes or duties, to be paid by the inhabitants within this dominion,
by any other power than the general assembly, duly elected, and that in
them, and them only, is the constitutional right of taxation vested.
III. Resolved, that we will chearfully join with our suffering brethren
of America, in the firmest bonds of union, against exporting or im-
porting any commodities to or from Great Britain, till our just and
legal rights are restored.
IV. Resolved, that the cause of the town of Boston is the common
cause of all British America.
V. Resolved, that as the population of this colony with freemen and
useful manufacturers is greatly obstructed by the importation of slaves
and convict servants, we will not purchase any such slaves or servants
hereafter to be imported.
VI. Resolved, that subscriptions be opened in this county for the relief
of our suffering brethren in the town of Boston.
VII. Resolved, that ALLEN COCKE, and NICHOLAS FAULCON,
junior, esquires, our late representatives, be and they are hereby nomi-
nated and appointed to attend the general meeting of deputies of the
other counties and corporations within this colony, in the city of Willi-
amsburg, on the first day of August next, there to concert such mea-
sures as may be found most expedient for the general good of the colonies.
VIII. Resolved, that the clerk of this meeting do transmit the pro-
ceedings of this day to the printers of both gazettes, and request them
to publish the same without delay.
JAMES KEE, Clerk of this meeting.
At a meeting of the freeholders and others, inhabitants of the county
of Chesterfield, at the courthouse of the said county, on Thursday the
14th of July, 1774, to take into consideration the present very alarming
situation of this colony, the reverend ARCHIBALD M’ROBERT being
unanimously chosen moderator,
Resolved, nemine contradicente, that we are ready and willing at the ex-
pence of our lives and fortunes to defend and maintain his majesty’s right
and title to the crown of Great Britain and his American dominions
against all his enemies, and we do profess all just obedience and fidelity
to his sacred person and government.
Resolved, that the sole right of making laws for the government of this
his majesty’s ancient colony and dominion of Virginia, and for raising and
levying taxes on the inhabitants thereof, ought to be, and is vested in the
general assembly of the said colony, and cannot be executed by any other
power without danger to our liberties; subject, nevertheless, as of cus-
tom has been, to his sacred majesty’s approbation.
Resolved, that every other of his majesty’s dominions in America
ought to be, and of right is entitled to, the same privileges as this
colony.
Resolved, that the present demand of money as a duty upon tea im-
ported into this or any other colony in America, under the authority of
the British parliament, ”for the sole purpose of raising a revenue in Ame-
rica,” without the consent of our representatives, is arbitrary and unjust,
a subversion of the ancient and constitutional mode of levying money
upon British subjects, and evidently calculated to fix a precedent for fu-
ture demands of the same nature, and by that means to reduce the colo
nies to a state of slavery, and that all persons aiding in the execution of
such laws be considered as enemies to the freedom of British subjects.
Resolved, that the act of the British parliament for depriving the in-
habitants of the town of Boston, in our sister colony of the Massachu-
setts Bay, of their lawful trade, as also the bills brought into the house
of commons of Great Britain, one of which bills is entitled, “a bill
for the impartial administration of justice in the cases of persons question-
ed for any act done by them in the execution of the law, or for the sup-
pression of riots or tumults in the province of Massachusetts Bay, in
New England,” are unjust, arbitrary, and unconstitutional; and al-
though levelled particularly against one of our sister colonies, yet ought
to be resented with the same indignation by this and every colony as if
all of them were included in the said act and bills.
Resolved, that an extensive association ought to be entered into, and
that no goods or commodities of any kind whatsoever ought to be im-
ported from Great Britain into this colony after the first day of August
next, except medicines, paper, books, needles, cotton, wool and
clothiers cards, steel, gunpowder, German oznabrigs, hempen rolls,
negro cotton and plains, Dutch blankets, salt petre, and implements
necessary for the manufacturing of woolens and linen. And that all
and every person who has sent orders to Great Britain for any articles
except such as are already excepted ought to embrace the first opportunity
to countermand such orders.
Resolved, that any inhabitant of this colony who shall import any
article not allowed by this association, or purchase from any other per-
son who shall import such article except already ordered, shall be deemed
a betrayer of the liberties of his country, and that we will not hold
friendship or have any connection with such offending person.
Resolved, that every kind of luxury, extravagance, and dissipation,
should now and at all times be carefully discouraged, and that an exten-
sive plan of establishing manufactures amongst the inhabitants of this
and the other colonies in North America should immediately be adopted
as the only possible means of avoiding that dependent commercial con-
nection which hath hitherto subsisted between the colonies and Great
Britain, which hath induced an arbitrary and designing administration to
attempt the total destruction of our rights and liberties, and that to carry
the same more effectually into execution, subscriptions be opened for that
purpose under proper regulations.
Resolved, that to dissolve the general assembly of the colony, sitting
for the dispatch of public business, “because they enter into a consideration
of the grievances under which they labour, and nobly assert their right
to freedom,” is arbitrary and oppressive, a manifest proof of a fixed inten-
tion to destroy the ancient constitutional legislative authority in the colo-
ny, and directly contradictory to the spirit of the acknowledgments made
in favour of the rights of a British people.
Resolved, that this colony ought not to hold any commercial inter-
course with any of the colonies in North America that shall refuse to
adopt proper measures for procuring redress of our grievances.
Resolved, that the town of Boston is now suffering in the cause of
American liberty, that her safety and protection is and ought to be the
common cause of the other colonies, and that her relief ought to be
attempted by all proper and constitutional ways and means in our power.
Resolved, that we do most heartily concur with the late representatives
of this colony in their sentiments delivered at the meeting held in Wil-
liamsburg after the dissolution of the last assembly. We return them our
warmest thanks for their spirited conduct on that and every other occasion,
and entreat their steady and determined attention to the same principles
at the meeting to be held on the first day of August next, in the city of
Williamsburg.
Resolved, that ARCHIBALD CARY and BENJAMIN WATKINS,
our late worthy representatives, together with the representatives to be
chosen for this county in the next assembly, be and they are hereby ap-
pointed deputies on the part of the freeholders and inhabitants of this
county, to meet such deputies as shall be appointed by the other counties
and corporations in this colony, in the city of Williamsburg, on the first
day of August next, to take under their consideration the several
grievances, under which this and the other American colonies are at
present labouring, to concert and deliberate upon proper ways and means
to procure redress of those grievances, and that they, together with such
deputies as shall be then and there assembled, do nominate proper persons
on the part of this colony, to meet such deputies as shall be appointed
upon the part of the other continental colonies in a general congress, to
consult and agree upon a firm and indissoluble union and association for
preserving by the best and most proper means their common rights and
liberties.
Resolved, that the clerk of this meeting transmit to the printers of
both gazettes copies of these resolutions, with the earnest request of this
county that the other counties and corporations within the colony will
appoint deputies to meet at the time and place and for the purposes
aforesaid. JERMAN BAKER, Clerk to the meeting.
WILLIAMSBURG, JULY 21.
WE are informed that the city of Philadelphia have already gene-
rously contributed 1500 barrels of flour for the relief of the
patriotic Bostonians.
Colonel Bolling, our late worthy representative for the county of
Dinwiddie, has, we hear, offered two of his mills gratis (deemed the
best in this colony) to grind such commodities as may be sent to them
for the use of the people of Boston.
A gentleman at Cabin Point, who has manufactured cloths there
for some years, has, it seems engaged a number of hands, whom he
daily expects, and proposes to work as reasonably as possible, not only
to assist us at this alarming crisis, but to encourage the manufacturing
branch, in every respect, throughout Virginia.
Since our last we have received the following account of elections:
For the college, Colonel John Randolph; for Isle of Wight, John S.
Wells and John Day, esquires; for Surry, Allen Cocke, junior, and
Nicholas Foulcan, esquires; for Nansemond, Lemuel Riddick and Wil-
lis Riddick, esquires; for Gloucester, Thomas Whiting and Lewis
Burwell, esquires; for Middlesex, Edmund Berkeley and James Mon-
tague, esquires; for Essex, James Edmondson and Meriwether Smith,
esquires; for Accomack, Southy Simpson and Isaac Smith, esquires;
for Norfolk county, Thomas Newton, junior, and James Holt, esquires;
for Norfolk borough, Joseph Hutchings, esquire; for Henrico, Richard
Adams and Samuel Duval, esquires; for Dinwiddie, John Banister and
Robert Bolling, esquires.
FRIDAY, JULY 22.
It is a happy reflection, that, notwithstanding every ministerial artifice
to subvert the independent spirit of the AMERICANS, we can assure
the people of this colony, that our brethren throughout the different
departments to the northward continue still as animated as at first in
their suffering, though generous cause, and seem determined never to
co-operate with undue influence, or to bend beneath the yoke of that
oppression which at this juncture so conspicuously threatens us. His
excellency governor Gage has issued a proclamation, bearing date the
29th ult. ordering that no meetings for the future shall be held within
his government, which, for the greater satisfaction of our readers, we
shall here insert.
A PROCLAMATION for discouraging certain illegal combinations.
WHEREAS certain persons, calling themselves a committee of cor-
respondence for the town of Boston, have lately presumed to make, or
cause to be made, a certain unlawful instrument, purporting to be a
solemn league and covenant, intended to be signed by the inhabitants of
this province, whereby they are most solemnly to covenant and engage to
suspend all commercial intercourse with the island of Great Britain until
certain acts of the British parliament shall be repealed; and whereas
printed copies of the said unlawful instrument have been transmitted by
the aforesaid committee of correspondence, so called, to the several
towns in this province, accompanied with a scandalous, traitorous, and
seditious letter, calculated to inflame the minds of the people, to disturb
them with ill grounded fears and jealousies, and to excite them to enter
into an unwarrantable, hostile, and traiterous combination, to distress
the British nation, by interrupting, obstructing, and destroying her trade
with the colonies, contrary to their allegiance due to the king, and to
the form and effect of divers statutes made for securing, encouraging,
and regulating the said trade, and destructive of the lawful authority of
the British parliament, and of the peace, good order, and safety, of the
community; and whereas the inhabitants of this province, not duly
considering the high criminality and dangerous consequences to them-
selves, of such alarming and unprecedented combinations, may incauti-
ously be tempted to join in the aforesaid unlawful league and covenant,
and thereby expose themselves to the fatal consequences of being con-
sidered as the declared and open enemies of the king, parliament, and
kingdom of Great Britain; in observance therefore of my duty to the
king, in tenderness to the inhabitants of this province, and to the end
that none who may hereafter engage in such dangerous combinations,
may plead, in excuse of their conduct, that they were ignorant of the
crime in which they were involving themselves, I have thought it fit to
issue this proclamation, hereby earnestly cautioning all persons whatso-
ever within this province against signing the aforesaid, or a similar cove-
nant, or in any manner entering into or being concerned in such unlaw-
ful, hostile, and traiterous combinations, as they would avoid the pains
and penalties due to such aggravated and dangerous offences. And I do
hereby strictly enjoin and command all magistrates, and other officers,
within the several counties in this province, that they take effectual
care to apprehend and secure for trial all and every person who may
hereafter presume to publish, or offer to others to be signed, or shall
themselves sign the aforesaid, or a similar covenant, or be in any wise
aiding, abetting, advising, or assisting therein; and the respective sheriffs
of the several counties within this province are hereby required to cause
this proclamation forthwith to be posted up, in some public place, in
each town, within their respective districts.
*** Query, Whether this proclamation will meet with more respect
than that of his majesty did lately in London, offering a reward for ap-
prehending a man who had made himself obnoxious to administration? On
this proclamation, the man was taken up and carried before a magistrate,
who released him; the proclamation being in itself illegal, and the per-
son who acted upon it was prosecuted.
Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, dated July 6.
”I confess that no man wishes more for the establishment of a con-
stitutional postoffice in America than myself; yet, as I anticipated in a
former letter, Mr. G———d’s scheme seems to bear but an indifferent
prospect of success. He returned here a few weeks ago. At Boston,
and other parts of New England, he told them the Philadelphians had
unanimously resolved to establish a constitutional post; and, for a con-
firmation of his assertion, a merchant at Boston wrote to a gentlemen in
this city. I am not acquainted with the contents of the answer, though
I have great reason to conclude them unfavourable to Mr. G———d. He
attended a meeting of mechanics here one night, pretending to have let-
ters of consequence from Boston, New York, &c. two or three of which
were read, and gave some satisfaction; but the others mentioning the
regulation of the postoffice, they refused to read them through, ob-
serving America had business enough upon her hands without meddling
with the affairs of a postoffice. Mr. G———d was much chagrined and
vexed, and shortly after left the city.”
In the last Philadelphia papers there are several accounts relative to the
Indians: Some say the back inhabitants of Pennsylvania and Virginia
are blamed much, and that captain Conolly has acted with great barbari-
ty, having endeavoured frequently to murder two or three Indians, who
escorted the traders with the utmost faithfulness to Fort Pitt, and shew-
ed great humanity towards them; but the accounts are so various and
complicated, that it is not easy to draw a conclusion; besides, we would
not wish to do the least injustice to captain Conolly, more especially as
there have been frequent instances of late of the barbarity of that savage
people.
Several letters from principal gentlemen in England to their correspond-
ents in New York and Philadelphia, are just received: They wish us to
continue firm in our opposition, as the only means of obtaining redress.
Mr. Bradford’s paper informs us that the list of prizes in the Delaware
lottery was just come to hand; but for want of room and time, they
were obliged to postpone its insertion till the succeeding week.
ADVERTISEMENTS, several PIECES, and the RESOLVES of many
counties, shall be attended to in our next.
By his EXCELLENCY the right honourable JOHN earl of DUNMORE, his
majesty’s lieutenant and governor general of the colony and dominion of
VIRGINIA, and vice admiral of the same:
A PROCLAMATION.VIRGINIA, to wit.
WHEREAS the GENERAL ASSEMBLY is summoned to meet
on Thursday the 11th of next month, but I find no urgent oc-
casion for their meeting at that time, I have therefore thought fit, by
this proclamation, in his majesty’s name, farther to prorogue the said
assembly to the first Tuesday in November next.
GIVEN under my hand, and the seal of the colony, at Williamsburg,
this 8th day of July, in the 14th year of his majesty’s reign.
DUNMORE
GOD SAVE THE KING.
TO BE RENTED,
From year to year, or for a term of years, and entered upon the first day of
September next
A CONVENIENT TENEMENT in the town of Petersburg,
at present in the possession of Mr. Andrew Johnston, whereon is a
commodious storehouse, with a large counting room, and lodging rooms
under the same roof, lumber houses of different sizes and for different
purposes, stables, chairhouse, and a garden well paled in. Any useful
repairs may be made by the tenant, and the expence deducted out of the
rent. The terms, which are extremely low, may be known by applying
to 3 BOLLING STARK.
KING WILLIAM, July 10, 1774.
THE SALE of the deceased colonel James Quarles’s NEGROES
that were advertised to be at Aylett’s warehouse on the 13th instant,
is, by consent of parties, deferred until the 10th of August next, at
which time they will most certainly be sold agreeable to the former ad-
vertisement. 3 GOODRICH CRUMP.
JAMES CRAIG,
AT THE GOLDEN BALL,
WILLIAMSBURG,
BEGS leave to inform the public that he has just got an eminent
hand in the WATCH AND CLOCK MAKING BUSINESS,
who served a regular apprenticeship to the same in Great Britain, and
will be obliged to those who favour him with their commands. He
makes and repairs REPEATING, HORIZONTAL, and STOP
WATCHES, in the neatest and best manner. JEWELLERY,
GOLD and SILVER WORK, as usual, made at the above
shop, for READY MONEY only.
To be SOLD, at Hanover courthouse, on Thursday the 4th of August
next, being court day,
FIFTEEN likely Virginia born SLAVES, belonging to the estate
of doctor John Walker, deceased. Credit will be given till the 25th
of December next, the purchasers giving bond, with approved security, to
THOMAS SIMPSON, Administrator.
*** Those concerned are desired to take notice that I have fully em-
powered Mr. George Lumsden to transact the business of the above estate.
The distressed situation of the estate puts it out of my power to grant
any indulgence to its debtors; and as I intend to close my administration
as soon as possible, I therefore request the favour of those who have any
claims against the said estate to bring them in, either to Mr. Lumsden or
myself, properly attested, at farthest, by the 1st of October next.
3 T. S.
GREEN SPRING, July 13, 1774.
I HEREBY forewarn all persons not to purchase FRUIT or VEGE-
TABLES, or any thing else, from any of the negroes belonging to
the estate of Mr. William Lee, without a note from me, or any of the
overseers who act for the said estate. GRIFFIN FAUNTLEROY.
IF one SARAH FARGUSON, who came indented from England about
six years ago, and served her time with Mr. Charles Lewis, deceased,
on Rappahannock, will apply to the printer of this paper, she will hear
of something much to her advantage.
RAN from the plantation of the subscriber, near the Great Falls of
Potowmack, on the Maryland side, in Frederick county, about the
27th of June, a very likely mulatto slave named ELIAS, near 5 feet
10 inches high, and about 20 years old; had on, when he went away,
a brown broadcloth coat, a light coloured broadcloth jacket, oznabrig
shirt, short breeches of the same, a new felt hat, and shoes and stockings.
His head, from the crown to the forehead, is remarkably long, and
is much scarred about the mould, proceeding from his having had a scald
head when he was a boy. He has also a scratch on his upper lip, which
may be perceived by taking a near view of it. Whoever delivers him to
me shall receive a reward of THIRTY SHILLINGS, if taken 20 miles
from home, and in proportion to that distance.
3 THOMAS OFFUTT.
TAKEN up, in Charlotte, a well made black horse, about 4 feet 6
inches high, about 16 or 17 years old, branded on the near buttock
W, and has on a bell of 3s. value. Posted, and appraised to 3£. 10s.
PETER RAWLINS.
TAKEN up, in Culpeper, a middle sized mare, shot before, her
hind feet white, and branded on the near buttock I. E. Posted, and
appraised to 3£. 10s. * JOHN GRIGSBY.
To be SOLD, at public sale, at STAUNTON, on Tuesday the 16th of
August next, being AUGUSTA court day.
TWO tracts of LAND, belonging to captain Matthew Harrison,
and lying in Hampshire, vix. One tract of 317 acres, on the drains
of Lost River, joining James Bryan, and one tract of 100 acres, on the
drains of said river, joining John Price and Jacob Crisman. Plots of said
land may be seen on the day of sale, in the hands of Gabriel Jones,
esquire. Credit will be given for one half the purchase money till April
next, and for the other half till the 16th of August, 1775, giving bond,
with approved security, to (3) GEORGE MITCHELL.
To be LET, to the LOWEST BIDDER, on Thursday the 28th instant
(July) at the town of Manchester, in Chesterfield county,
THE clearing of the FALLS of JAMES RIVER from Westham to
the mouth of Reedy Creek; it will be let in several divisions. Bond
and security will be required for the performance in time, and agreeable
to the directions then given. A considerable sum is subscribed towards
carrying the work into execution. Half the money is to be paid the
undertakers in October next, and the other half the October following.
They will not have the trouble of collecting the money from the sub-
scribers, as they will oblige themselves to pay the sums agreed upon at
the times stipulated. THE TRUSTEES.
STRAYED, or stolen, from the subscriber in Dumfries, on the night
of the 18th of April last, two WAGGON HORSES, the one a
black, 14 hands high, 7 or 8 years old, has lost one eye, with a hanging
mane and switch tail; his brand, if any, is not remembered. The other
is a bay, about the same size of the black, 5 years old, branded on the
shoulder D. F. and on the buttock R. G. very plain. Whoever secures
said horses, so that I get them again, shall have THREE POUNDS reward;
and if delivered here, TRAVELLING EXPENCES paid.
3 REGINALD GRAHAM.
PORTSMOUTH, July 5, 1774.
A PURSE of 100 guineas to be run for by any horse, mare, or
gelding, over the two mile course at this place, the best two heats
in three, on Tuesday the 20th of September, carrying weight for age,
agreeable to the articles of the said purse, which are to be seen in the
hands of Mr. Richard Nestor, merchant there, with whom all horses
starting for the said purse are to be entered, the day before the race at
farthest. The money to be paid to the winner immediately after the
race. It is also proposed to have two more races, one on the Wednesday
following, for &50pound;. the other on Thursday. for 30£. which will be adver-
tised particularly, as soon as the subscriptions are full.
To be SOLD at the late dwellinghouse of Mr. Hugh Houston, deceased,
in Fredericksburg, on Thursday the 18th of August next,
ALL the PERSONAL ESTATE of the said Houston, consisting of
HOUSHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, an assortment of
SADDLERY, and sundry other articles in the harness way. Six
months crdit will be allowed, on bond, and approved security. At the
same time and place will be rented, till the 25th of December, the LOTS
and HOUSES of William Houston, deceased, and the TANYARD; all of
which are in good repair. Also the slaves hire till the same time; among
whom are several good BLACKSMITHS, SHOE and HARNESS-
MAKERS, and a very good TANNER. Bond and security will be
required; and if not punctually paid, to carry interest from the date.
Those who have demands against either or both of the said William and
Hugh Houston, are desired to bring in such claims, properly attested, in
order that they may receive payment according to dignity; and those
who are indebted are desired to give bond and make payment to Mr. Ben-
jamin Johnston, who is impowered to act by FANNY HOUSTON, ad-
ministratrix of Hugh, and acting in lawful right to William Houston,
deceased. 3*
FOR SALE,
TWO thousand six hundred and seventy five ACRES of LAND
in Gloucester county lying in Petsworth parish, upon which there
is a very good mill on an excellent stream of water. It will be laid off
in lots for the convenience of purchasers; and as it is entailed land, ap-
plication will be made to the next general assembly for an act to dock the
entail. Mr. Lewis Booker will shew the land, and make known the
terms. WILSON M. CARY.
TO BE SOLD,
THE noted and well accustomed TAVERN, at present occupied by
the subscriber, lying in James City county, about 15 miles from
Williamsburg, on the main road leading to New Kent, courthouse and
Ruffin’s ferry, with 500 acres of LAND in good order for cropping, and
6 fields under good fence. The terms of payment will be made easy by
the subscriber. THOMAS DONCASTLE.
TAKEN up, in Culpeper, a sorrel mare, about 4 feet 5 inches high,
branded on the off buttock I. C. and is about 3 years old. Posted,
and appraised to 7£. REUBIN SLAUGHTER.
TAKEN up, in Brunswick, a dark bay horse, about 14 hands high,
branded on the near buttock U, paces and gallops well. Posted, and
appraised to 13£. WILLIAM CLACK.
RUN away on the 16th instant (June) from the subscriber in Au-
gusta, a negro man named BACCHUS, a thick, strong, well
made fellow, about 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, 30 years of age; took
with him two white russia drill coats, one turned up with blue, the
other is quite new, plain made, with white figured metal buttons; also
a pair of blue plush breeches, a fine cloth pompadour waistcoat, two or
three thin or summer jackets, sundry pair of white thread stockings, 5
or 6 white shirts, two of them pretty fine, neat shoes, silver buckles,
a fine hat, cut and cocked in the macaroni figure, a double milled drab
great coat and sundry other wearing apparel. He formerly belonged to
Doctor George Pitt, in Williamsburg, and I imagine is gone there, under
pretence of my sending him upon business, as I have frequently heretofore
done. He is cunning, artful, and sensible, and very capable of forging
a tale to impose on the unwary, is well acquainted with the lower parts of
the country, having constantly rode with me for some years past, and has
been used to waiting from his infancy. He was seen a few days before
he went off with a purse of dollars, and had just changed a 5£. bill; most
or all of which, I suppose, he must have robbed me of, which he might
easily have done, as I trusted him much, and placed too great a confi-
dence in his fidelity. It is probable he may endeavour to pass as a free
man, by the name of John Christian, and endeavour to get on board
some vessel bound for Great Britain, from a knowledge he has of the late
determination of Somerset’s cafe. Whoever takes up the said slave, and
delivers him to me, shall receive FIVE POUNDS.
‘4’ GABRIEL JONES.
RUN away, from Neabsco furnace, the 16th of
March, a light coloured mulatto man named
BILLY, or WILL, the property of the honourable
John Tayloe, esquire. When I tell the public that he
is the same boy who for many years used to wait on me,
in my travels through this and the neighbouring pro-
vince, and by his pertness, or rather impudence, was
well known to all my acquaintances, there is the less
occasion for a particular description of him. However,
as he is now grown to the size of a man, and has not at
tended me for some time past, I think it not amiss to say
that he is a very likely young fellow, about 20 years
old, 5 feet 9 inches high, stout and strong made, has a
remarkable swing in his walk, but is much more so by a
surprising knack he has of gaining the good graces of
almost every body who will listen to his bewitching and
deceitful tongue, which seldom or ever speaks the truth.
He has a small scar on the right side of his forehead, and
the little finger of his right hand is quite straight by a
hurt he got when a child. Had on, when he went away,
a blue fearnought jacket, and an under one of green
baize, cotton breeches, oznabrig shirt, mixed blue sale
stockings, country made shoes, and yellow buckles.
From his ingenuity, he is capable of doing almost any
sort of business, and for some years past, has been chiefly
employed as a founder, a stone mason, and a miller, as
occasion required; one of which trades, I imagine, he
will, in the character of a free man, profess. I have
some reason to suspect his travelling toward James river,
under the pretence of being sent by me on business.
Whoever apprehends the said fellow, and brings him to
me, or to his master, the honourable John Tayloe, at
Mountairy, or secure him so as to be had again, shall
have treble what the law allows, and all reasonable
charges paid. tf
THOMAS LAWSON.
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 bult, with a
stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILL-
STONES, which mill has for two years past got up-
wards 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. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probable we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
KING HEROD
STANDS at Rosegill, and will cover mares at FOUR
POUNDS the season. Those who send mares must
send the money, otherwise they shall not be left. The
valuable qualities, and the pedigree, of this horse, are
sufficiently notorious.
RALPH WORMELEY, junior.
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 house 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 Flem-
ing, John Massey, and John Lain, are now in possession
of the plantations, who will shew the land to any person
inclinable to purchase, and Major Thomas Johnson will
ed 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 I* )
N
LANDED from Liverpool, four BALES, marked C I.
The owner may have them on paying the charges
to ISAAC YOUNGHUSBAND, who has for sale a parcel of
low priced Irish LINENS.
To be SOLD, at public auction, at Westmoreland court-
house, on Tuesday the 27th day of September, being
Westmoreland court day,
TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born SLAVES.
Credit will be allowed until the 10th of November
following, on giving bond and good security. The
bonds to bear interest from the date, if not punctually
discharged. tdf RICHARD PARKER.
NORFOLK, June 13, 1774.
THE subscribers have for SALE MADEIRA WINE,
BARBADOS RUM, CANE, SPIRIT, and
MUSCOVADO SUGAR.
PHRIPP and BOWDOIN.
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.
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.
TO BE SOLD,
A TRACT of LAND in Berkley and Frederick
counties, containing 12,076 acres; it lies 7 miles
on each side of Shenando river, the quantity on the east
side, being only a slip of low ground, is inconsiderable;
the quality of the land is remarkably good, and the con-
veniencies attending it great. There are two plentiful
streams of water running through marshes three miles in
length, some of which are already reclaimed meadows,
and the rest, at a very small expence, might soon be re-
duced to the like state. On each side of the streams mills
might be erected and furnaces, the land affording stone,
lime, iron, and lead ore. On one of the streams I have
already erected a complete merchant mill, with a pair of
the best French burrs for grinding of wheat, and a pair
of common stones for grinding of Indian corn; besides
this, there is near the dwelling house a tub mill, and on
the other stream there is a valuable saw mill. There
are five settled and improved plantations; on one of
them is a good stone house, 2 stories high, with 2 rooms
on a floor, a kitchen, dairy, and all other convenient out-
houses; on another plantation, where Michael Pike lived,
there is a good stone house; and at the other plantations
there are overseers houses, negro quarters, barns, stables,
tobacco houses, &c. The above tract shall be either par-
titioned off in lots of 1000 or 500 acres, or sold bodily to
one purchaser. Belonging to this estate there are 112
negroes to be disposed of, togother with all the stocks of
cattle, equal to any in the colony, horses, mares, colts,
hogs, &c. likewise all the necessary implements for the
planter or farmer. Any person or persons inclinable to
purchase are desired to make their proposals to me at
Rosegill, on Rappahannock river, or to leave them with
the overseer, who lives at the house plantation, and will
shew the land. In November I shall be on the premises,
and may then be personally treated with. Part of this
land, and some of the negroes, belong to my eldest son,
who leaves to me the disposition thereof, and will confirm
any engagement I enter into on his part.
6 RALPH WORMELEY.
TO BE RENTED,
FROM YEAR TO YEAR, OR FOR A TERM OF YEARS,
BELVOIR,
THE beautiful seat of the honourable George William
Fairfax, esquire, lying upon Potowmack river, in
Fairfax county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The
mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four con-
venient 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 furnish-
ed 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 se-
veral valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land
in different parts, which may be let altogether, or sepa-
rately, 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.
To be SOLD, pursuant to an act of assembly, on Mon-
day the 1st of August next, being Prince William
court day.
The glebe lands of Dettingen parish, in the said
county, adjoining the lands of the present incum-
bent the reverend James Scott, situate on Quantico Run,
about 9 miles from Dumfries, and containing about 400
acres. The soil is good for wheat or tobacco, and there
may be got a considerable quantity on the same.
3 Henry Lee,}
Lewis Reno.} churchwardens.
FOR SALE,
FIVE hundred acres of land, lying on Deep Creek in
Louisa, about 45 miles of Richmond town, and is
exceeding good land, well watered by Deep Creek, and
a large branch thereof, which runs through the middle
of the land, and affords a large quantity of rich meadow
ground. Any person inclinable to purchase may see the
land, and know the terms, by applying to the subscriber,
living near it. tf I* GEORGE MERIWETHER.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
For SALE
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 situ-
ation of this place is very convenient for a family, at 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.
FOR SALE,
And to be ENTERED upon at CHRISTMAS next,
A VERY valuable tract of LAND in King William
county, on Pamunkey river adjoining the land of
the late Mr. John Smith, of Hanover county, deceased,
containing 800 acres, more or less, the soil is very rich,
and exceedingly well adapted for wheat, corn, or tobacco,
particularly the first and second, being low grounds;
and there is a considerable quantity of high grounds.
It has plenty of good pine and oak timber upon it, con-
venient houses, and is in good order for cropping, is
about two miles from Hanover town, and very convenient
to church and two mills. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may be shewn the land by applying to Mr. Christo-
pher Taliaferro, or Mr. William Jones, who resides near
the same, and the terms may be also known by applying
to these gentlemen, or to the subscriber.
tf THOMAS JONES.
To be SOLD, together or in parcels,
THAT fertile and well timbered tract of LAND,
lying in Princess Anne county, known by the name
of Gibbs’s Woods, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stands seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Persons inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy, in
Williamsburg, who will give an undoubted title. tf
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately,
A TRACT of LAND containing 1300 acres, more
or less, on Pianketank river, in Gloucester county.
It is needless to be particular about it as it is the same I
advertised last year and then gave a full account of it,
since then I sold it to John Attway Clarke, of Maryland,
but as he refuses to take it, necessity obliges me once more
to offer it to the public. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may know the terms by applying to me in Mid-
dlesex, I want part of the money at the meeting of the
merchants, and for the remainder I will give reasonable
credit. tf AUGUSTINE SMITH.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox 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 wea-
ther, 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous 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.
THE
VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
THURSDAY, July 28, 1774. NUMBER 4[faded, illegible]9
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with their GAZETTE at 12f. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3f. the first Week,
and 2f. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.______PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
The BRITISH AMERICAN.
NUMBER IX.
FRIENDS, FELLOW CITIZENS, and COUNTRYMEN,
I HAVE observed, that in quarrels between two men, where each
hath been satisfied of the other's bravery, they have generally
compromised their difference upon honourable terms; but where
the person injured, under pretence of trying moderate measures,
hath by his method of asking satisfaction, given his adversary
reason to suspect his courage, a scandalous submission, or the duel
he wished to avoid, has been the consequence. The same passions which
produce this effect between two men will operate equally upon two states,
who are but a collections of individuals. It is my firm opinion, that if
the British aristocracy were once convinced that you were determined to
risk your lives and fortunes rather than submit to the legislation of a Bri-
tish parliament, they would relinquish so despotic a measure rather than
force you to draw the sword, if you convince them that you are deter-
mined to go even those lengths rather than submit; and nothing but a
persuasion that you dare not do so hath induced them to proceed so far as
they have done. But supposing it was otherwise, it is high time that
the dispute between Britain and America should be brought to some fixed
point, which being once determined, either one way or other, may re-
move all future contest; for if you look no farther than the present mo-
ment, and only endeavour to obtain a repeal of any particular act of par
liament you complain of, you will no sooner battle oppression in one shape
than, Proteus like, it will attack you in another equally formidable.
Jealousies, complaints, murmurs, ad dissentions, will eternally subsist,
reciprocal provocations will totally destroy all harmony betwixt the inha-
bitants of the two countries and implacable resentment end in mutual
attempts to ruin, if not to extirpate, each other. What then, my
countrymen, is it you demand? The answer is obvious: A right of ex-
emption from the legislation of the British parliament. If you are de-
termined to enforce this right lay the ax to the root of the evil, boldly
avow those intentions to the world, and pursue the proper measure, to
transmit that right to your posterity. Of the three plans proposed, the
first appears too weak and timid, the second too violent, rash, and dis-
honourable, to be adopted; then consider cooly the third plan proposed;
That you shall absolutely determine at once that you will not in the future
suffer any act of the British parliament, made since the 4th of James the
first, to be executed in the colonial; that if any judge of any court what-
soever shall presume to pronounce any judgement to enforce such act of
parliament he shall incur the resentment of an injured people and be
treated as an enemy to America; that the judgement so prounounced by
him shall be absolutely void; and that you will, at the risk of your lives
and fortunes, support every person injured by such judgements, in repelling
the execution of them by force. It is objected, that this measure strikes
at the navigation acts, which we have long submitted to. The very
objection evinces the folly of trusting the decision of this dispute to poste-
rity, who familiarized to oppression, will never resist it, and who, by
long use, will be accustomed to look upon every badge of slavery with as
little horror as we do upon the navigation acts, which ought certainly to
be considered as impositions of the strong upon the weak, and as such ought
to be resisted as much as any of the other acts we complain of; nor will
this dispute ever be ended till by refusing submission to them we remove
so dangerous a precedent. But it is to be reasonable that your trade
should be secured to Great Britain: I own I cannot see the force of this
argument; for why should not Britons on this have as good a right to
extend their trade to every corner of the globe as those on the other side
of the Atlantic. Is it material to the empire of Great Britain in what
part of her dominions the wealth of her subjects lies, since it will finally
center in her happy island? Bristol, Liverpool, and Whitehaven, would
esteem it an intolerable hardship to be obliged to lade or unlade all their
ships at the port of London, and though they are not obliged to do this,
their wealth finally centers in that city, as the metropolis of the king-
dom; so if America was indulged in an unlimited trade it would be
highly advantageous to Britain, as all the profits of such a trade must
finally center in that island. It hath been justly observed, "that natural
inclination leads every man to the cultivation of the soil, and the exten-
sive continent of America will enable her inhabitants to indulge that
inclination for centuries to come; nothing but oppression can ever induce
them to turn their thoughts towards manufactures, whilst the produce of
their fields can supply them with those manufactures." Long custom,
added to their natural connections with their mother country, will lead
them to prefer those of Britain to any others, and the certain market
they would meet with there, together with the danger they will run, in
trading with a foreign power, who in case of a war may cancel all the
debts due to them, will induce them to supply Britain with all the rough
materials she can manufacture, and to trade with other nations for such
only as would be superfluous to her. But it is objected, that America
would supply foreign poweres with tobacco, and Britain would lose that
valuable branch of trade: To this I answer, that her own interest would
induce America first to supply Britain with as much of that commodity as
she wanted for home consumption; because so much would bring a better
price from thence than from any other market. The revenue of Britain
would not therefore be affected, and, with regard to the superfluity, Great
Britain could never be said to lose those profits which any of her subjects
gained; because the wealth would finally center in the capital of the
empire. The happy temperature of her climate would invite the indolent,
the residence of her monarch would draw the ambitious, the grandeur of
her metropolis would induce the luxurious of her extensive empire to spend
all their superfluous wealth in a city where they could indulge every wish
of their hearts. Not to mention the vast superiority Great Britain would
have over the colonies, by all the officers of government in them being
appointed, the government directed, and even the legislature controuled
(in the exercise of the king's negative) by British councils. But it is
objected, that if America was indulged with this extension of trade, still
she would not contribute to the support of government, unless compelled
to it by a British parliament. Either this objection is true, or false;
suppose it true. If all the wealth arising from the trade and labours of
the Americans finally centers in Britain, it is as immaterial to the state
whether America actually pays the taxes herself, or enables others to do
it, as it is whether the publican or tallow chandler pay their taxes to the
exciseman, who pays them into the exchequer, or whether they pay them
into the exchequer themselves. But I deny the objection to be true.
The assemblies of the colonies of America, when proper requisitions have
been made to them as a free people, who had a right to exercise their
judgement upon the expediency of the requisitions, have never refused to
contribute to the utmost of their power towards supporting the dignity of
the British empire; nor can the British aristocracy produce a single in-
stance of any one colony's having refused to grant supplies, when their
sovereign hath requested them, but such where the governors, instead
of requesting those supplies, with a respect due to a free people, have in-
solently demanded them, with threats, in case of refusal; or when, in
the proprietary colonies, their proprietors have refused to pass any supply
bills, by which his large estate in the province would be obliged to con-
tribute any thing towards warding off the common danger, and then, by
the address of his governor, administration hath been abused with a belief
that disloyalty in the people to their sovereign occasioned the want of
those supplies, which were really withheld by the avarice of the pro-
prietor. In the last war, when the usual requsitions were made, the
assemblies, fond of demostrating their loyalty to their soveriegn, and
their regard for the dignity of the British empire, exerted themselves so
much beyond their ability, that the parliament of Great Britain thought
it but just to repay them what they had actually contributed more than
their proportion. Have they ever since been asked to contribute, and
refused? Why then distrust them now? Or why run the risk of destroying
the goose to get at that wealth which will be at the service of their sove-
reign whenever he asks for it in the usual way? But it is objected, that
the last war was undertaken solely on account of America, and therefore
she was more materially interested in its success than any of the inhabi-
tants of Britain. The event has proved the very reverse. Each colony,
possessed of more lands than their inhabitants could cultivate, were really
prejudiced by Great Britain's extending her dominions in America.
Their lands fell immediately 50 per cent. in their value by the emigration
of their inhabitants to the new conquered colonies, the manufactures
from Britain came much higher than formerly, by the great demand for
them to supply their new acquired subjects, their exports to Britain were
reduced in their price, on account of the additional ones from the new
dominions, and, to crown all, the British aristocracy, having no longer
a foreign rival to fear in America to check their aspiring views, employed
their victorious arms to destroy the rights of those subjects who had assist-
ed them in obtaining the victories which now enable them to attempt
to enslave you, with even a shadow of success. But if custom hath so
far habituated you to their unjust laws that you are willing, for the sake
of peace, to meet your mother country more than half way, upon her
agreeing to repel those acts, together with every precedent of legislation,
do you, on your parts, agree to secure the trade of the colonies to Great
Britain, by re-enacting the laws of navigation, in your own respective
assemblies, which when they have obtained the royal assent, will be
eternally binding on you? But never content to submit to those laws, as
the acts of a British parliament. it is objected, that the third plan pro-
posed is too violent and illegal to be adopted: let us consider whether
it is so; and here permit me to make a few distinctions, which are sup-
ported by those laws of England, which our ancestors, when they, with
the leave of their sovereign, settled America, imported with them.
When a judge pronounces an erroneous judgement, in a cause properly within
his jurisdiction, he is not answerable as a criminal for such an error in
judgement, because no man is infallible, and corruption is not to be presumed.
The judgement so pronounced by him, though erroneous, is not absolutely void,
but avoidable, and till it is regularly revisited by a Superior court of judicature,
it is to be considered as a judgement, may as such be enforced, and cannot be
legally resisted.
If a judge pronounces judgement in a cause in which he has no jurisdiction,
or if a man constitutes himself a judge, or is by others, who have no right to
do so, illegally constituted a judge, and as such presumes to enforce such
usurped jurisdiction, even though the judgement is a just one, he is answerable
for the consequences. the judgement thus pronounced by him, though a just
one, is absolutely void, and as such may be legally resisted; the judge, and
every person concerned in endeavouring to enforce such a judgement, are tres-
passers, and if any person should be killed in resisting such judgement, the
judge who pronounced the sentence, if present at the execution, and all his
assistants, are answerable for the murder.
The courts of admiralty, at the time our ancestors settled America, had no
jurisdiction of any offence committed in any river or bay where the land could
be seen across from one side to the other; and if they presumed to usurp such
jurisdiction, by seizing any vessel in such places, they, and all acting under
them, were trespassers, their judgements were absolutely void, and, by the
statue of 2 Henry 4, chap, 11, they were liable for double damages.
The king cannot create any new offence which was not so at the common law,
or alter the mode of trial of those already created in Britain, without the con-
sent of his British parliament, or, in other words, without the consent of the
representatives of the people, who are to be judged for such offences, and
affected by such trials; and if he should, such trials would be illegal, the
judgements absolutely void, the persons injured by them may not only maintain
an action against, and indict as trespassers, the persons who attempt to enfore
such illegal and void judgements, but may resist them by force, and if in such
resistance they kill the trespassers, it will not be murder, because, say the
books, the persons slain were trespassers, covering their violence with a show
of justice; he who kills them is indulged by the law, and those who engage
in such unlawful actions must abide by the event, at their peril.
For authorities in support of the doctrines I have thus laid down, I
refer my reader to 10 Co. Rep. 76 and 77. 1 Salk. 201. 2 Mod. 30,
196. Rolls. Abr. Tit. Escape, 809. pl. 45. Cro. James, 314, Cro.
Car. 395, 2 Sid. 125, 1 Lev. 95. Hob. 267, Holt Rep. 186, 1 Hawk.
pl. cr. chap. 28, sect. 5 and 6, chap. 29, sect. 8, chap. 31. sect. 46,
chap. 32, sect. 54, 57, 58, 59, and 60, 2 Hawk. Pl. Cr. chap. 50,
sect. 3, 4, Inst. 87, 97, 98, 121, 134, to 142, 213, and 248; and a
great multitude of precedents in those books referred to. From these
doctrines and authorities I draw the following inferences.
First, that the jurisdiction exercised by the courts of admiralty in the bays
and rivers in American being given, the very offenses of which they take
cognizance being created, and the modes of trial being altered from the
common law, since the settlement of the colonies by the British parliament,
in which the inhabitants of the colonies are not represented, the judg
ments given by those courts are absolutely void, that the persons injured
by them have a right to recover double damages of, and to indict the
persons who enforce them, and to resist them with force, and if in such
resistance the trespassers are killed, it will not be murder; but, on the
other hand, if the persons resisting are killed, all actually present in
countenancing and enforcing such judgements will be guilty of murder.
Secondly, that as acts of the British parliament, made since the settle-
ment of America (in which the inhabitants of America neither are or
can be represented) cannot be binding upon the Americans, who had no
share in framing them, the subject matter of such acts of parliament can
never come within the jurisdiction of any court of judicature in America,
and consequently any judgement given by an American court of judicature,
to enforce such acts of parliament, are absolutely void, and may be le-
gally resisted.
Thus, my countrymen, the dispute finally terminates in this single
question: Whether the British parliament, in which you are not repre-
sented, have a right to make laws to bind you, or not? If they have,
all opposition is illegal; but if they have not, you may, without in-
fringing the laws of your country, declare that you will not submit to
any act of parliament made since your ancestors, with the leave of their
sovereign, settled in America, and determine to punish any judge who
shall dare to enforce such; for the man who as a judge usurps a jurisdicti-
on he has not right to, and under colour of a law, no way obligatory on
you, attempts to wrest your property from you, is to be considered as a
plunderer and robber, and you have as good a right to repel by force the
baliff who, by virtue of an execution against your estate, attempts to
imprison your person, or the Gascon who would enforce an edict of the
French parliament. A just apprehension of personal danger, and the
dread of immediate punishment, acts so powerfully upon the human
mind, that I can readily imagine a regard for their personal safety would
induce, and a dread of danger would intimidate, all the judges in the
colonies from enforcing acts of parliament, which no judge would
dare to enforce obedience to, could never injure you. But if, contrary
to expectation, the judges should still presume to proceed, I would not
advise you to confine yourselves to resolutions only, or even to a bare
resistence of the execution of their judgements, but by pursuing active
measures, convince them you are in earnest, and make examples of the
offending judges. Be not alarmed, my countrymen, it is not my inten-
tion to advise you to proceed to extremities, and hand up these judges
at once; for if the laws of your country can be duly enforced, the au-
thorities I have cited prove that private actions, brought by the parties
injured, the presentment of grand, and the verdicts of petit juries, will
be amply sufficient to enable you to punish legally any judge, who, by
arrogating to himself an illegal jurisdiction, shall presume to invade him-
self, or instigate others to invade, the property, restrain the liberty, or
destroy the lives, of his fellow subjects. It is objected, that administra
tion will exert its influence over all your courts of justice, to stifle such
suits and prosecutions, or, at least, to prevent them from being carried
into execution: To this I answer, that when violent and unconstituti-
only measures are taken, to overturn the laws of, or to impede, the
course of justice in any country, the first law of nature gives the people
a right of preserving the one, and of enforcing the other; therefore, if
your natural and political liberty should be thus trampled on, and your
property should be thus illegally invaded, you will be strictly justifiable
in recurring to force, and in proceeding to the last extreme; and to sa-
crifice to your just resentment three or four, or even three or four dozen,
unconstitutional or corrupt judges in each colony, will be a more mode-
rate measure than that of entering into associations to starve 20,000 of
your innocent manufacturing fellow subjects in Britain, or that of break-
ing off all connections with the mother country, and by that means re-
ducing yourselves to the necessity of slaughtering some thousands of the
British soldiers, or of exposing the lives of all America in a bad cause;
for such it would be esteemed if you act dishonourably in withholding
their debts from your creditors. Upon the whole, my advice to you,
my countrymen, is, that you send deputies from every colony in Ame-
rica to form a general congress.* Let them be instructed to enter into
the firmest resolutions of not submitting to any acts of the British parlia-
ment, made since the 4th of James the 1st (when your ancestors, with
the leave of their sovereign, made the first effectual settlement in Ame
rica, and by doing so, could be no longer subject to the legislation of a
British parliament, in which they could not be represented) and of pu-
nishing any person who shall presume, for the future, to enforce such
acts of parliament in America. Let them draw up and transmit to
England, an address to your gracious sovereign, expressive of the most
affectionate loyalty to his person, of their readiness to grant him supplies
for the benefit of the whole empire, to the utmost of their abilities,
whenever he shall request it of his respective American assemblies; but
assuring him of their determined resolution to sacrifice their lives, and
every thing that is valuable to them, rather than submit to the legisla-
tion of a British parliament; and that as no evil can be so dreadful to
them, as a humiliating subjection to their fellow subjects the lords and
commons of England, that if his majesty, deaf to these their reiterated
complaints, should persist in permitting such acts of parliament to be
enforced in America, his subjects of that great continent, though struck
with horror at the idea of disloyalty to his sacred person, are, though
reluctantly, firmly determined to break off all connections with Great
Britain, and trust to that God who hath told them that the race is not
always to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, to support their en-
deavours in preserving that liberty they received from their British an-
cestors. It is objected, that though this plan may be of service to the
other colonies, it will administer no relief to the town of Boston, who
is now suffering in the common cause: To this I answer, that a parti-
cular emergency requires a special remedy. So far as relates to the re-
moval of the seat of government, I think resistence would be illegal, it
being the undounted perogative of the crown to fix, or to remove, the
seat of government of any particular colony, to whatever place the king
pleases within that colony; and though this prerogative may be exercised
oppressively, still the subject must submit. He may petition, but ma-
jesty only can redress the grievance.
But the stopping up the port of Boston, and prohibiting the owners
from using their own wharfs, under colour of acts of parliament, which
the inhabitants, or their representatives, had no share in framing, is
such an illegal stretch of power, such a despotic invasion of property,
that may be legally resisted, and ought not to be submitted to; indeed,
I look upon it as little less than a declaration of war, which would justify
all America in running immediately to arms, to repel so horrible an at-
tack upon their liberties, But still, my countrymen, I would wish to
see you adopt constitutional measures of redress. Let subscriptions be
opened in every town and county on the continent of America, to supply
the inhabitants of the town of Boston liberally with every necessary. Let
every supply of fresh provisions and other necessaries be withheld from the
navy and army employed in the detestable service of endeavouring to en-
slave their brethren and fellow subjects. Let every colony in particular,
and all America in general congress, protect against the illegality of the
measures, and resolve to support every person who shall infringe or oppose
it. Let vessels attempt to go in and out of the port of Boston as usual, as
if no such act of parliament existed. If the ships of war should seize
them, or the soldiers obstruct any man in the use of his wharf, prosecute
in the courts of law every officer, either of the army or navy, for acting
so illegally, and every judge who shall presume to condemn the vessels
seized; let the expense of such prosecutions be defrayed, and the losses
of private men made good, by the general contributions of all America.
If any violent measures are taken by the tools of the British aristocracy,
to impede the course of justice, recur to the first law of nature, and repel
the aggressors; and though the inhabitants of New England are suffici-
ently numerous to repel any illegal force which can be raised upon such an
occasion, yet in order to make it one general act of all America, let each
colony send a quota of men to perform this service, and let the respective
quotas be settled in the general congress.
These measures will, in my opinion, be the most moderate, the most
constitutional, and the most effectual, you can pursue, and will, I doubt
not, add such weight to your address to the throne, that the British
aristocracy, convinced that you are in earnest, will listen to reasonable
terms of accommodation, and you, by preserving your own liberty, be
such a constant check to their ambitious designs, as will restrain them
within the bounds of moderation, even in Britain; and by restoring
your sovereign to his necessary weight in the national councils, prevent
Great Britain from becoming a prey to those aristocratical vultures,
which are endeavouring to destroy her very vitals. But if debased by
corruption, prostituted by venality, and lost to all sense of shame, Bri-
tain, like a contented, fond wanton, loves and caresses the ravishers who
have debauched and undone her, should attempt to sacrifice her Ameri-
can offspring to their ambition and, regardless of your complaints, de-
termine to enforce the legislation of a British parliament in America, or,
in other words, if all your efforts are ineffectual to save your mother
country, and she must sink, you must then take care not to sink with
her; but by preserving your own liberty, prepare an asylum in America
for such of the inhabitants of Britain who still desire or deserve to be free.
You must then, and not till then, break off all connections with Great
Britain; you must stop your imports and exports to and from thence; you
must banish every customhouse officer from amongst you; you must in-
vite all other nations of the world to supply you with necessaries by giving
them liberty to trade with you, duty free; you must proclaim universal
freedom throughout America; you must draw your swords in a just cause,
I would advise that Frederick town in Maryland, or Winchester in
Virginia, should be fixed upon as proper for the meeting of this congress,
as no ships of war could bombard either of those towns, and the number
of expert rifle-men in those parts would be able to prevent any unwel-
come visitors from interrupting the congress; and though it is to be
hoped that no such thing will be attempted, a different caution will do
no harm.
and rely upon that God, who assists the righteous, to support your en-
deavours, to preserve that liberty he gave, and the love of which he hath
implanted in your hearts, as essential to your nature. But there are
measures which the British aristocracy, when they reflect upon those
consequences of a war with the colonies which I enlarged upon in a
former letter, + will never force you into. They are measures which
nothing but necessity can justify; measures too delicate to be enlarged
upon, and measures which I touch with a trembling hand, because
though they will, they must, effectually preserve the liberty of America,
they will probably occasion the destruction of Britain, and though she
hath treated us unnaturally, and, I will add, ungratefully, she is our
mother country still, and as such I would wish to preserve her.
And now, my friends, fellow citizens, and countrymen, to convince
you that I am in earnest in the advice I have given you, notwithstand-
ing the personal danger I expose myself to in so doing, notwithstanding
the threats thrown out by the British aristocracy of punishing in Eng-
land those who shall dare to oppose them in America, yet because I do
not wish to survive the liberty of my country one single moment, be-
cause I am determined to risk my all in supporting that liberty, and be-
cause I think it in some measure dishonourable to skulk under a borrowed
name, upon such an occasion as this, I am neither afraid, or ashamed,
to avow, that the letters signed by A BRITISH AMERICAN, were
written by the hand, and flowed from the heart, of
THOMAS MASON.
+ As the letter here alluded to was published many years ago, like
this, in a newspaper, and, in all human probability, hath been long con-
signed to oblivion, it may not be amiss to give the following extract from
it: "If Great Britain should ever determine to enslave America, it is
more than probable that she would have more difficulties to encounter
than she at present apprehends. Suppose the Americans, alarmed at the
approaching danger, should discreetly determine to retreat to a considerable
distance from navigation, and carry off their provisions and live stock of
every kind with them, would troops, who had been confined to a close
ship, upon salt provisions, for near three months, without fresh provi-
sions, without horses to draw their artillery, be in a very proper condition
to pursue them? If they did, would not the scurvy, the unwholesomeness
of the climate, and the many disorders incident to America, which at-
tack the Europeans with double force upon their first arrival, render the
success of such an expedition impracticable, and enable the Americans to
preserve their liberty, without imbruing their hands in blood? Is it rea
sonable to suppose that three millions of British subjects would tamely
submit to slavery, without striking a single blow? Would not their know-
ledge of the country enable them to attack with advantage? Would not
the consideration that they were fighting pro aris et focis add enthusiasm
to their courage? Inured to the climate, and well supplied with provi-
sions, would they not be better able to undergo the fatigue of such a war
than their invaders? If the British troops, with all the assistance and
supplies of necessary refreshments, which they received from their Amer-
rican friends last war, thought an American campaign the severest they
had ever experienced, which must such a campaign be without such assist-
ance and supplies? Could Great Britain spare even 50,000 men, to reduce
a people actuated with sentiments of liberty, and possessed of British free-
dom, of twenty times their number, would those troops engage with
alacrity in such a cause? Would not some murmurings of humanity
whisper to their consciences that they were butchering their fellow sub-
jects for shweing themselves worthy of the race from whence they sprung,
and for acting the same laudable part which they themselves would do
under like oppression? When the sluices of her trade were stopped, and
all communication with her colonies broke off, could she long support the
expence of such an armament? Is she well assured that the other powers
of Europe would stand idle, and calmly see her trampling upon the rights
of mankind? Would not the generous design of preventing so execrable
a purpose furnish them with a just pretext for interposing in support of
the injured rights of the colonies? And might not Britain, whilst she
was endeavouring to enforce slavery with fire and sword in America, fall
an easy prey to the first invader, and thus involve herself in the ruin she
designed for others? But suppose Britain was able to crush America with
the smallest exertion of her force, and to extirpate its present inhabitants
without losing the life of a single man sent against it, would such a con-
quest redound either to her honour or advantage? Would not the life of
every American, spent upon such an occasion, be really a loss to Britain,
by lessening the export of her manufactures, and the import of rough
materials, which furnish her with the means of extending her trade to
every corner of the globe? What mighty advantage would she reap from
an uncultivated desert? Would it be easy for her to persuade her other
subjects to supply the place of the slaughtered with such an example of
the perfidy, cruelty, and ingratitude, of their mother country, before
their eyes? Does she think that the extirpation of liberty would be a
spur to industry, or that slavery hath such charms as to contribute to the
encrease of the colonies? Should the northern endeavour to deprive the
western counties of England of their rights, and a civil war ensue, would
the conflict be advantageous even to the conquerors? These are conside-
rations which must and will have weight with the British parliament,
and restrain them from entering into a war with the colonies."
Mrs. RIND,
BY inserting the following in your useful gazette you will render a
singular service to your country, and at the same time oblige far
the greater part of this county, which you need not in the least hesitate
to do, as it contains nothing but truth and real facts, which, if denied,
will be fully proved, by numbers now living in this county, as well as by
your humble servant, VIRGINIANUS.
Princess Anne, July 13, 1774.
WHEREAS an invariable mode of partiality and arbitrary admini-
stration has been frequently planned and executed by our present county
lieutenant, to the prejudice and displeasure of this county, and to the
almost general discontent, confusion, and destruction, of our militia,
which was once remarkable for its order, regularity, and good discipline,
but is now reduced to a state of anarchy, being without leaders, without
commanders, that are capable of disciplining them; therefore, as these
are facts undeniable, and most of them recent, which plainly prove the
mischievous tendency, and dangerous consequences, which proceed from
the absolute power given by government to the lieutenant of every county
to appoint all the officers for his county at his own will and pleasure,
which power, though seldom or never was so much abused before, yet
may be productive of many precedents hereafter, if not timely prevented
(more especially at this critical and dangerous era)which can no other-
wise be done than by the legislature taking that tempting power and
authority away from the county lieutenant, and placing them in the
courts martial respectively, or the major part of them present, with the
same reason that magistrates and vestrymen are to be chosen by a ma-
jority. By such an amendment in the militia law the companies in ge-
neral will be commanded by the best officers who have the best right to suc-
ceed, both from seniority and qualification, and will not be arbitrarily
and partially given away from such, through favor or selfish views, to
raw, inexperienced upstarts, who seldom or never served in the milit1a,
and know not how to draw up a single company, nor how to exercise
them when drawn up by an experienced officer; now will the men chear-
fully or willingly serve under such whom they know to be ignorant, un-
worthy, and unfit to command; which are the real cases in this county
at present.
PROCEEDINGS OF VIRGINIA.
At a meeting of the freeholders of Hanover county, at the courthouse,
on Wednesday the 20th of July, 1774, the following ADDRESS
was agreed to.
To JOHN SYME and PATRICK HENRY, junior, esquires.
GENTLEMEN,
YOU have our thanks for your patriotic, faithful, and spirited con-
duct, in the part you acted in the late assembly, as our burgesses,
and as we are greatly alarmed at the proceedings of the British parliament,
respecting the town of Boston, and the province of Massachusetts Bay,
and as we understand a meeting of delegates from all the counties in this
colony is appointed to be in Williamsburg on the first day of next month,
to deliberate on our public affairs, we do hereby appoint you, gentlemen,
our delegates, and we do request you then and there to meet, consult,
and advise, touching such matters as are most likely to effect our deliver-
ance from the evils with which our country is threatened.
The importance of those things which will offer themselves for your
deliberation is exceeding great; and when it is considered that the effect
of the measures you may adopt will reach our latest posterity, you will
excuse us for giving you our sentiments, and pointing out some particu-
lars, proper for that plan of conduct we wish you to observe.
We are free men; we have a right to be so, and to enjoy all the pri-
vileges and immunities of our fellow subjects in England, and while we
retain a just sense of that freedom, and those rights and privileges ne-
cessary for its safety and security, we shall never give up the right of tax-
ation. Let it suffice to say, once for all, we will never be taxed but by
our own representatives; this is the great badge of freedom, and British
America hath been hitherto distinguished by it; and when we see the
British parliament trampling upon that right, and acting with determined
resolution to destroy it, we would wish to see the united wisdom and
fortitude of American collected for its defence.
The sphere of life in which we move hath not afforded us lights suffi-
cient to determine with certainty concerning those things from which
the troubles at Boston originated. Whether the people there were war-
ranted by justice when they destroyed the tea we know not; but this we
know, that the parliament, by their proceedings, have made us and all
North America parties in the present dispute, and deeply interested in
the event of it; insomuch, that if our sister colony of Massachusetts
Bay is enslaved, we cannot long remain free.
Our minds are filled with anxiety when we view the friendly regards
of our parent state turned into enmity, and those powers of government,
formerly exerted for our aid and protection, formed into dangerous efforts
for our destruction. We read our intended doom in the Boston port bill,
in that for altering the mode of trial in criminal cases, and finally in the
bill for altering the form of government in the Massachusetts Bay.
These several acts are replete with injustice and oppression, and strongly
expressive of the future policy of Britain towards all her colonies; if a
full and uncontrouled operation is given to this detestable system, in its
earlier stages, it will probably be fixed upon us forever.
Let it, therefore, be your great object to obtain a speedy repeal of those
acts, and for this purpose we recommend the adoption of such measures as
may produce the hearty union of all our countrymen and sister colonies.
UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL:
To attain this wished for union, we declare our readiness to sacrifice any
lesser interest arising from a soil, climate, situation, or productions, pe-
culiar to us.
We judge it conducive to the interests of America that a general con-
gress of deputies from all the coloniesbeheld, in order to form a plan
for guarding the claims of the colonies, and their constitutional rights,
from future encroachment, and for the speedy relief of our suffering
brethren at Boston. For the present, we think it proper to form a ge-
neral association against the purchase of all articles of goods imported
from Great Britain, except negroes, cloaths, salt, saltpetre, powder, lead,
utensils, and implements for handycraftsmen and manufacturers, which
cannot be had in America; books, paper, and the like necessaries, and
not to purchase any goods or merchandise that shall be imported from
Great Britain after a certain day that may be agreed on for that purpose
by the said general meeting of the deputies at Williamsburg, except the ar
ticles aforesaid, or such as shall be allowed to be imported by the said
meeting, and that we will encourage the manufactures of America by
every means in our power. A regard to justice hinders us at this time
from withholding our exports; nothing but the direct necessity shall in-
duce us to adopt that proceeding, which we shall strive to avoid as long
as possible.
The African trade for slaves we consider as most dangerous to virtue and
the welfare of this country; we therefore most earnestly wish to see it
totally discouraged.
A steady loyalty to the kinds of England has ever distinguished our
country; the present state of things here, as well as the many influences
of it to be found in our history, leave no room to doubt it. God grant
we may never see the time when that loyalty shall be found incompatible
with the rights of free men. Our most ardent desire is that we, and
our latest posterity, may continue to live under the genuine, unaltered
constitution of England, and be subjects, in the true spirit of that con-
stitution, to his majesty, and his illustrious house; and may the wretches
who affirm that we desire the contrary feel the punishment due to falsehood
and villainy.
While prudence and moderation shall guide your councils, we trust,
gentlemen, that firmness, resolution, and zeal, will animate you in the
glorious struggle. The arm of power, which is now stretched forth
against us, is indeed formidable; but we do not despair. Our cause is
good; and if it is served with constancy and fidelity, it cannot fail of
success. We promise you our best support, and we will heartily join in
such measures as a majority of our countrymen shall adopt for securing
the public liberty.
Resolved, that the above address be transmitted to the printers to be
published in the gazette. WILLIAM POLLARD, Clerk.
At a meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants of the county of Stafford
the following ADDRESS was agreed to be presented.
To JOHN ALEXANDER and CHARLES CARTER, esquires.
GENTLEMEN,
YOU are chosen to convey the sentiments of the freeholders and inhabitants
of this county to a meeting of the agents from every county in the colony, to be
held in Williamsburg on the 1st day of August; permit us on the occasion to
recommend to you a conduct, decent, though spirited; animated, yet prudent.
You will declare as unanimously determined to preserve inviolate every pri-
vilege and immunity transmitted by our ancestors; that we reject, with a
disdain becoming the descendants of Englishmen, every mode of taxation, but
by our representatives; that we are united in our prayers and wishes for
a speedy restoration of that harmony which formerly subsisted between Great
Britain and her colonies. But, alas! we can but deem the prospect distant
while parliament continues her attempt to enslave us. While the port of Boston,
in our sister colony of Massachusetts Bay, is now actually blocked up with
an armed force, for having, with a becoming fortitude and resolution, with-
stood the fixture of a most unconstitutional tax, can we behold this attempt upon
Boston but as a prelude to what every other colony, as well as ourselves, are
to expect? Do not the inhabitants of that city, the first sufferers in the cause
of American liberty, demand every assistance from our united counsels and
resolutions? We approve, we willingly accede to the association of our late
assembly after their dissolution. It must affect the East India company, whose
concurrence with administration, in their attempts on our liberties, ought for-
ever to render them odious and detestable to every American. But while we
testify our approbation of these measures we declare, at the same time, that we
conceive them in our opinion to be inadequate to our purpose, and totally in-
sufficient to procure a removal of our complaints. They are not calculated to
alarm the merchant trading to America, nor will they serve to rouse the ma-
nufacturers, from whose interest, on the present occasion, to serve us. This, we
conceive, may be easily effected, by a general stoppage of all exports and im-
ports to and from Great Britain and the West India islands, an occlusion of the
courts of justice but in criminal cases, breaches of the peace, and matters of
record. These measures we request you to recommend to the meeting, as well
by your votes, as every other method in our power.
John Washington, Townshend Dade, Richard Fowke, W.G. Stuart,
William Mountjoy, Traverse Daniel, John James, Samuel Seldon, Yel-
verton Peyton, William Garrard, William Brent, Robert Stith, Thomas
Mountjoy.
Resolved, that an exemption from parliamentary taxation is the clear and
undoubted right of the American colonies; that this right hath been uniformly
claimed and allowed by the king and parliament of Great Britain from the
first settlement of America and that an attempt to deprive them of this right
is both contrary to the laws and constitution of England, and would reduce
the Americans to a slavery the most deplorable and ignominious.
Resolved, that to surrender the inestimable and unquestioned right which the
people of America have to be taxed by their representatives only would be a
total departure from the dignity of human nature, and would argue such a
baseness of soul, as must render them unworthy of the name of British subjects.
Resolved, that though the members of this meeting do most ardently wish to
see restored the good old system of tenderness and protection on the part of the
mother country, and love and respect on that of the colonies; they are, neverthe-
less, firmly and seriously resolved to do whatever shall be necessary for the sup-
port of the just and equitable claim of a distinct legislation in the colonies.
Resolved, that every encroachment made by British parliament on the rights
of any one of his majesty's colonies or plantations in America ought to be looked
upon as an infringement upon the just rights, and inherent privileges, of the
whole.
Resolved that the only sure and effectual measure to preserve America, and
disarm the hand of oppression, will be to put an entire and immediate stop to all
intercourse of trade with great Britain and the West Indies, and also to the
exportation of wheat, flour, provisions, and lumber, to any part of Europe.
Resolved, that the people of this colony ought not to have any communication
in the way of trade, or otherwise, with any colony or island in North America,
who refuse to unite with them in stopping all trade with Great Britain and the
West Indies, as mentioned above.
Resolved, that it is the duty of this colony to contribute as far as their power
extends to the relief of the inhabitants of Boston, who are now, by the hard
hand of oppression, marked out as the victims of ministerial wrath for their
spirited exertions in the great cause of American freedom, and that subscripti-
ons be immediately set on foot for their relief, under the conduct of the com-
mittee.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that the courts of justice in
this colony ought to decline trying any civil causes until the grievances of Ame-
rica are redressed.
Resolved, it is the unanimous opinion of this meeting, and is now earnestly
recommended to the late representatives, that they will, when the sense of the
counties can be collected, appoint a meeting at the falls of James river, or some
other convenient place, to fix upon a plan for carrying into execution the mea-
sures proposed by the people, and it is hoped that deputies from the merchants
will attend.
Resolved, that a committee be of the following persons:
John Alexander, Charles Carter, John Washington, Townshend
Dade, William Hooe, Robert Washington, Henry Fitzhugh, Francis
Thornton, Gerrard Hooe, Nathaniel Washington, Robert Stith, Henry
Fitzhugh, junior, Lawrence Washington, Lawrence Washington, junior,
William Fitzhugh, Marmion, John Stuart, Alvin Moxly, Andrew
Grant, reverend William Stuart,, William Gibon Stuart, John Wadrop,
Baldwin Dade, Thomas Bunbury, junior, Housin
Hooe, Chandler Fowke, Richard Fowke, Thomas Massey, Robert
Yates, Charles Massey, Peter Hansborough, Seymour Hooe, Nehemiah
Mason, Segismund Massey, Samuel Selden, Gowry Waugh, John Fitz-
hugh, Thomas Fitzhugh, Henry Fitzhugh, junior, William Garrard,
William Mountjoy, Peter Daniel, Traverse Daniel, Thomas Mountjoy,
William Mountjoy, junior, John Mountjoy, Allin Waller, John Waller,
Yelverton Peyton, John Browne, reverend Clement Brooke, Elijah
Thrailkill, George Brent, William Brent, Robert Brent, John Mon-
cure, John Bronaugh, Baily Washington, John James, William Adie,
Richard Hewitt, Elias Hoar, John Ralls, Thomas Ludwell Lee, Robert
Knox, John Grigg, John Withers, James Withers, John Murray.
Resolved, that ten of the committee, with the moderator, be sufficient for
transacting business.
Resolved, that JOHN ALEXANDER and CHARLES CARTER, gentle-
men, be chosen to attend the general meeting in Williamsburg, on the first day
of August, to transact business for the inhabitants of Stafford county.
WILLIAM GARRARD, Clerk.
At a meeting of sundry inhabitants and freeholders of the county of
Isle of Wight, at the courthouse, in the town of Smithfield, on Satur-
day the 23d of July, 1774, the reverend HENRY JOHN BURGESS
being unanimously chosen moderator, the following RESOLVES were
entered into.
RESOLVED, that we will ever bear true and faithful allegiance to
his majesty George the third, king of Great Britain, France, and Ire-
land, whom we acknowledge to be true and lawful sovereign of the
British empire in North America, and whose sacred person and rights
we should think ourselves unworthy of the protection of so good a king
were we, by a tame submission to arbitrary power, to surrender our
constitutional rights and liberty into the hands of any of our fellow sub-
jects; and therefore it is further resolved, that as it is an acknowledged
and essential principle of the British constitution that there can be no
taxation without representation, and as the inhabitants of the American
colonies neither are or can be represented in teh parliament of Great
Britain, any attempt of the said parliament to impose a tax on the said
colonies is a flagrant violation of the most valuable privileges we claim,
as free born subjects of a British king.
Resolved, that a late act of the British parliament for stopping the
commerce of the town of Boston, with a professed intention to enforce
obedience to another oppressive act of the said parliament, imposing a
duty on tea imported into America, is, in our opinion, unconstitutional,
tyrannical, and unjust, and threatens destruction to the British constituti-
on in America.
Resolved, therefore, that we consider the invasion of the town of
Boston by a British fleet and army as an attack on the liberty of all
North America, and that we will cordially concur with our American
fellow subjects in supporting our brethren in the province of Massachusetts
Bay, and alleviating the distress in which their opposition to despotic
power has involved them.
Resolved, that we will not use tea, or suffer it to be used, in our re-
spective families, as long as it is subject to a duty imposed by a British
parliament, for the purpose of raising a revenue from America, and that
we will not purchase any East India commodity whatever (drugs and
medicines excepted) until the grievances of America be radically redressed.
Resolved, that we will to the utmost of our power, discountenance
by our advice and example all kinds of luxury and extravagance, and
promote useful manufactures among ourselves.
Resolved, that we will heartily accede to all such further measures for
the preservation of American liberty which shall be adopted by the depu-
ties of the several counties in Virginia, when convened at Williamsburg,
on the first day of the month.
Resolved, that we will have no commercial intercourse (except in the
payment of our just debts) with any person or persons who shall not ac-
cede to such an association as shall be formed by the deputies of the several
counties in this colony on the fist day of next month.
Resolved, that RICHARD HARDY, JOHN SCARSBROOK WILLS,
and JOHN DAY, be requested to represent us in the said general congress.
Resolved, that a copy of these resolutions be inserted in the Virginia
gazette. FRANCIS YOUNG, Clerk.
At a general and full meeting of the inhabitants of the county of Gloucester,
at the courthouse of the said county, after due notice, on Thursday the 14th
of July, 1774, JAMES HUBARD, esquire, judge of the said county court,
being unanimously chosen moderator, they came to the following resolves:
RESOLVED, that we will ever maintain and defend his majesty's right
and title to the crown of Great Britain, and his dominions in America, to
whose royal person we profess the firmest attachement.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that taxation and repre-
sentation are inseparable, and that as we are not, and from the nature of
things cannot, be represented in British parliament, every attempt of that body
to impose internal taxes on American is arbitrary, unconstitutional, and op-
pressive.
Resolved, that the act for blocking up the harbor of Boston, and other
purposes therein mentioned, is cruel and unjust, and a convincing proof of the
fixed intention of parliament to deprive America of her constitutional rights and
liberties.
Resolved, that the cause of Boston is the common cause of all America, and
that we will firmly unite with the other counties in this colony, and the other
colonies on this continent, in every measure that may be thought necessary on
this alarming occasion.
Resolved, that we do most heartily concur with our late representatives in
their resolve of the total disuse of tea, and do farther resolve against the use of
any East India commodity whatsoever, except saltpetre.
Resolved, that we will not import, or purchase when imported, any mer-
chandize or commodities from Great Britain, and that at a short day, here-
after to be fixed, we will stop all exports to Great Britain, until there is a
total repeal of the Boston port act, all the several acts imposing taxes in Ame-
rica, for the purpose of raising a revenue, and those other acts made particu-
larly against our brethren of the Massachusetts Bay, an account of their noble
opposition to the late revenue acts.
Resolved, that should our sister colonies of Maryland and North Carolina
determine not to export their tobacco to Great Britain, we will be far from
availing ourselves of their patriotic resolution, by continuing to export ours.
Resolved, that we will submit to any resolutions that may be entered into,
either by the deputies of the several counties in this colony at Williamsburg, or
by the general congress of the colonies on the continent.
Resolved, that we will not deal with any person or persons in this county
who will not sign this association, and strictly and literally conform to every
distinct article thereof, nor with any other person or persons who will not sign,
and strictly confirm, to the particular resolves of their representative counties, but
will forever despise and detest them, as enemies to American liberty.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that immediately upon the
no-exportation plan taking place, neither the gentlemen of the bar, nor any
other person, ought to bring any suit for the recovery of any debt, or prosecute
farther any suit already brought, during the continuance of these resolutions, it
being utterly inconsistent with such scheme for any man to be compelled to pay
without the means wherewith he may pay.
Resolved, that we do most cordially approve of the intended meeting of the
late burgesses, on the 1st of August next at Williamsburg, and do depute
Thomas Whiting and Lewis Burwell, esquires, our late worthy representa-
tives, to consult with the deputies of the several counties of this colony, and
to adopt such measures as are agreeable to the foregoing resolutions, hereby
engaging, on our parts, to conform thereto, and to support the same to the
utmost of our power.
Resolved, that the clerk of this meeting transmit to the printers of both ga-
zettes copies of the above resolves, with the request of the county to insert them
in their papers. JASPER CLAYTON. Clerk
At a general meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants of the county
of Caroline, at the courthouse, on Thursday the 14th of July, 1774,
assembled for the purpose of deliberating and giving their sentiments upon
the present state of affairs in America, and what ought to be done at this
most alarming crisis, the following points were agitated and agreed to as
the opinion of this county.
THAT the design of our meeting may not be misinterpreted, we think
it proper to declare, what would otherwise be unnecessary, that we will
preserve all due obedience and fidelity to the royal person and govern-
ment of his sacred majesty king George the third, and that we will at
all times, when called on for that purpose, maintain and defend, at the
expence of our lives and fortunes, his majesty's right and title to the
crown of Great Britain, and his dominions in America.
That a firm union and mutual intercourse, and reciprocation of inter-
ests and affections, between Great Britain and her colonies, is desirable
and beneficial to both, and that whoever shall go about to dissolve that
union, by attempting to deprive the colonists of their just rights on the
one hand, or to effect their independence on the other, ought ever to
be considered as a common enemy to the whole community.
That for Americans to be exempted from every kind of taxation, ex-
cept by the content of their own representatives, in their several pro-
vincial assemblies, to be heard in their defence when accused of crimes,
and tried by their peers, are rights they derive from natural justice, the
British constitution (to which they are equally entitled with their fellow
subjects in Great Britain) and from constant usage, so long as the true
principles of the constitution have been suffered to direct the public coun-
sels.
That the British parliament, in their several acts for imposing a duty
upon tea, to be paid in America, for blocking up the harbour and stop-
ping the commerce of the town of Boston in the Massachusetts Bay, for
supposed offences, with which they were charged and condemned unheard,
for altering the form of that government established by charter and long
usage, and for empowering his majesty to order persons charged with
certain offences committed in America to be carried to Great Britain
and there tried, have been influenced by evil counsellors to depart from
the true principles of the constitution, and to violate the most sacred
and important rights of Americans, from which they can never depart.
That those acts, whether intended to operate only in one province, or
generally in all, ought to be considered as the common cause, and that a
firm and indissoluble union and association of the whole ought to be
formed, to oppose their operation, by every just and proper means; to
effect which, we think the sending deputies from each province, to
meet in a general congress, will be a very proper measure, and we de-
sire our delegates may unite with others in the general meeting for this
colony in electing such deputies.
That tea being the subject of the tax complained of, and the East
India company having acted ungenerously in sending great quantities of
it to America to fix the precedent of taxation, though desired to forbear,
we most cordially concur with the late representatives of this colony to
disuse tea, and not to purchase any East India commodities from hence-
forth, until the just rights of America be restored.
That a general association between all American colonies not to
import from Great Britain any commodity whatsoever ought to be en_
tered into and not dissolved till the just rights of the said colonies are re-
stored to them, and the cruel acts of British parliament against the Mas-
sachusetts Bay and town of Boston are repealed.
That it is the undoubted privilege and indispensible duty of the repre-
sentatives of the people of this colony, when met in general assembly
, to deliberate freely upon all invasions of the rights, liberties, or proper-
ties, of their constituents, and consider of the proper means of redress,
and therefore that the interposition of the executive power here, by
mandate from the ministry, to dissolve the assembly, whenever they
complain of attempts to destroy those rights, tends to deprive us of all
benefit from a legislature, and it is evidence of the fixed intention of the
ministry to reduce the colonies to a state of slavery.
That in this distressed situation of our affairs all luxury, dissipation,
and extravagance, ought to be banished from among us, and every kind
of manufacture, industry, and economy, encouraged.
That the African trade is injurious to this colony, obstructs our popu-
lation by freemen, manufactures, and others, who would emigrate from
Europe and settle here, and occasions an annual balance of trade against
the country; and therefore that the purchase of all imported slaves
ought to be associated against.
Though we are happily allowed to proceed to the choice of new repre-
sentatives, yet as the return of the writs is made to the 11th of August,
and there is reason to doubt the assembly may not be held at that time,
we think it highly expedient there should be a meeting at Williamsburg
on the 1st of August, as appointed, to consider fully of the several
matters herein before mentioned, and appoint EDMUND PENDLETON
and JAMES TAYLOR, esquires, deputies, on our parts, to meet such as
shall be named for other counties and corporations, at Williamsburg, or
such other place as may be agreed on, on the day aforesaid, or any other
time, to deliberate freely, and agree to the above resolutions, or any
other that may be judged more expedient for the general purpose intended.
WILLIAM NELSON, Clerk.
At a meeting of the loyal and patriotic people of the county of Hen-
rico, at their courthouse, on the 15th of July, the following ADDRESS
to their late worthy representatives was agreed on and signed by a great
number of freeholders.
To RICHARD ADAMS and SAMUEL DU VAL, esquires.
We the subscribers, freeholders of the county of Henrico, assembled
for the purpose of deliberating on the present posture of public affairs,
return you our thanks for the part you acted in the late assembly as our
burgesses.
When we reflect on the alarming and critical situation of things re-
specting the mother country our minds are filled with the most anxious
concern. The acts of the British parliament, made for punishing the
inhabitants of Massachusetts Bay, are repugnant to the first principles
of justice, and if they are suffered to have a full operation, will not only
crush our sister colony, and involve the guilty and innocent in one com-
mon ruin, but will stand as a fatal precedent to future times for adopting
the same fatal measures towards this and every other British colony.
We therefore have passed this determination, and shall conduct ourselves
conformably, that the cause of the colony of Massachusetts Bay in gene-
ral, and of the town of Boston in particular, is the cause of this and
ever other colony in North America.
We hope, gentlemen, that the exceeding great importance of the
present crisis will plead our excuse for giving you our sentiments touching
that conduct which we wish you to observe in the ensuing congress on the
1st day of August next, at Williamsburg, to which we depute you to act
on our behalf.
With grief and astonishment we behold Great Britain adopting a mode
of government towards her colonies totally incompatible with our safety
and happiness; we cannot submit to be taxed by her parliament; we
cannot sit still and see the harbour of Boston blocked up by an armed
force; we cannot behold without indignation the charter rights of a sister
colony violated, or the form of its government changed by an act of par-
liament, as derogatory to the honour of the mother country as it is re-
pugnant to justice; and lastly, we will not suffer our fellow subjects to
be seized and transported beyond sea to be tries for supposed offences
committed here. If these things are suffered to be reduced to practice we
shall account ourselves the most miserable of men, unworthy of the name
of freemen; we shall not wonder if in future we are treated as slaves.
We therefore most solemnly charge and conjure you to use your best
endeavours to save us from these calamities. We earnestly entreat you
for your utmost exertion to procure, by all possible ways and means, a
total repal of the late oppressive and detestable acts of parliament. We
trust you will heartily concur in such measures as the said congress shall
judge most efficacious, to preserve our ancient rights; for be assured, gen-
tlemen, that nothing shall ever induce form us a submission to tyranny,
and that we resolve, once for all, to live and die freemen.
In order to effect those desirable ends, we give it as our opinion that
the most effectual method of opposing the said several acts of parliament
will be, that a general association between all the American colonies
ought immediately ot e entered into, not to import from Great Britain
any commodity whatsoever, except such articles as the general congress
shall judge necessary, until the just rights of the colonies are restored to
them, and the cruel acts of the British parliament against the colony of
Massachusetts Bay and town of Boston are repealed.
A love of justice, and the tender regard we have for our friends the
merchants and manufacturers of Great Britain, to whom we are indebted,
and who must of course suffer in the common cause prevents our re-
commending the stopping our exports at this time; but at a future day
we will heartily concur with the other counties of this colony to stop all
exports, as well as imports, to and from Great Britain, unless what we
have already recommended to you shall be found effectual.
We most cordially recommend that no time be lost in administering
every comfort and aid to our distressed brethren of Boston that their un-
happy state may require, and may comport with our situation to afford.
We further recommend to you that you will, in conjunction with the
deputies from the different counties of this colony, chuse fit and proper
persons, on the part of this colony, to meet the deputies from the other
colonies in a general congress, at such convenient time and place as shall
be agreed on, then and there to advise and consult upon such measures,
as, under the circumstances of things at that time, they shall deem ex-
pedient.
We strictly charge and enjoin, that at all times, and on all occasions,
which may present, you testify our zeal for his majesty's person and go-
vernment, and that we are ready and willing, with or lives and fortunes,
to support his right to the crown of Great Britain, and all its depend-
encies.
At a meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of the county
of Elizabeth City, and town of Hampton, assembled at the courthouse
the 25th day of July, 1774, to consider of instructions to our late mem-
bers, or to those persons who shall be chosen our representatives at the
ensuing election, HENRY KING, esquire, being chosen moderator, and
M> ROBERT BRIGHT, clerk, the following RESOLVES were agreed
to.
RESOLVED, that the people of this county and town are strongly
attached from principle and education to his present majesty king George
the third and his family, and that they will, with their lives and for-
tunes, stand by and defend his sacred person, crown, and dignity.
Resolved, that the representatives of this county have, and ever ought
to have, the sole right of taxing the inhabitants of this colony, and that
the assuming of such a power, by the present or any other parliament of
Great Britain, should ever be considered as a strong proof of that despotic,
tyranny which so strongly marks the present administration, and which
dictated those late cruel and oppressive acts depriving the good people of
the Massachusetts Bay of their dearest and most invaluable rights.
Resolved, that our late patriotic members, or such persons as may be
chosen our representatives at the ensuring election, be requested to attend
the general meeting at Williamsburg the first of August next, and that
they be directed to concur with the deputies from the other counties in
the most spirited measures that may be adopted upon this occasion, so
truly alarming and interesting to the colonies.
Resolved, that if a non-importation and exportation agreement should
be thought necessary, that our members be directed to agree thereto.
Resolved, that it is the sense of this meeting, that a non-importation
and exportation agreement is necessary.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that any merchant
or dealer, who advances the price of his goods upon a non-importation
agreement, ought to be deemed an enemy to his country; and we do
most solemnly promise to consider him as such, and to withold all com-
mercial intercourse with him.
Resolved, that this meeting highly approve of the glowing zeal of the
sister colonies upon this trying occasion, and heartily sympathize with
their persecuted brethren and fellow subjects, the people of Boston.
Resolved, that a subscription for the relief of the unhappy poor of
Boston ought to be encouraged by all charitable and humane people, and
that the moderator be directed to solicit contributions for that purpose.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that our said mem-
bers concur with the members of the other counties, on the first day of
August next, in the choice of proper persons to represent the colony of
Virginia at a general congress.
Resolved, that the clerk of this meeting do transmit a copy of these
proceedings to the printers, to be published in their gazettes.
ROBERT BRIGHT, Clerk.
WILLIAMSBURG, July 28.
it is with much pleasure we learn that the county of Surry, from the
highest to the lowest, are actuated with the warmest affection towards
the suffering town of Boston. We are told, that immediately after the
breaking up of the meeting of the freeholders and others, to consult up-
on the most proper measures to be taken, upwards of 150 barrels of In-
dian corn and wheat were subscribed, and that 12 or 13 subscription
papers are now out for that purpose. Upon a moderate computation,
our correspondent informs us, eleven or twelve hunderd barrels of differ-
ent commodities will be produced by this county for the benefit of those
firm and intrepid sons of liberty, the Bostonians. It would be needless
to recognize the particular generosity of each county in this colony, as
the public must be very well acquainted, from the many resolves which
have been published, that all Virginia are unanimous in their endeavours
to contribute whatever relief or assistance may be in their power.
Many different resolves are received, which we would cheerfully insert
in this week's paper; but for want of room we are obliged to omit them.
They are similar to those already published.
A snow with convicts, just arrived in York river, had her mainmast
struck by lightning a few days ago, while in Chesapeake Bay, and was
otherwise injured; many of the people were much stunned, but no lives
lost. The following little account is somewhat remarkable: When this
vessel was at sea, the captain one morning discovered an uncommon bird
on the bowsprit, which was particularly beautiful; and having a desire
to possess it, to view its formation, he called for his gun and shot it.
The bird fluttered for some time, and at last fell into the water, some
distance from the vessel. The captain's curiosity still heightened,
he offered the convicts, that which ever of them would procure for him
the bird, should immediately receive his freedom. Several of them un-
dertook it with alacrity, and, after stripping themselves, plunged into
the sea. But, alas! he who was the ablest competitor in this spumy
element, just as he stretched forth one arm, in order to seize the little
urchin,, his other fell a sacrifice to the jaws of an angry shark. The
man's fortitude, however, was still so great, that he kept the prize
within his grasp till he got to the vessel, when, after being hauled up, he
delivered to the captain his favourite, and instantly expired.
The Triumph, captain Rogers, arrived in James river near 3 weeks
ago, from Leghorn, addressed to Mr. MAZZEI: By this vessel, we
understand, Mr. Mazzei has received sundry seeds vine cuttings, plants,
&c. together with several Italian emigrants, consisting of husbandmen
and mechanics; and by her we also learn, that the presents of birds,
seeds, and plants, sent by Mr. Mazzei to the grand duke of Tuscany,
were graciously received and that his highness was pleased to order his
thanks to be given Mr. Mazzei for his attention and kindness, and to
assure him of his royal favour and protection, on all occasions, that may
contribute to his advantage and success.
A correspondent writes: "On the 26th of this instant came on the
election of burgesses for the county of King William, when colonel
CARTER BRAXTON and colonel WILLIAM AYLETT,
with almost an equal number of votes, were elected by a great majority.
The people, to shew their approbation of the conduct of their late repre-
sentatives (one of whom declined serving again) provided a general enter-
tainment for the candidates, not permitting them to be at any expence;
an example truly worthy of imitation."
Number 11,735 is entitled to the prize of SIX THOUSAND
DOLLARS in the Delaware lottery.
FRIDAY, JULY 29.
By the northern post, arrived this afternoon, we have the following
ADVICES.
At a numerous meeting of the inhabitants of the city of New York,
convened in the fields, by public advertisement, on Wednesday the 6th
of July, 1774, Mr. ALEXANDER McDOUGALL, chairman,
The business of the meeting being fully explained by the chairman,
and the dangerous tendency of the numerous and vile arts used by the
enemies of America to divide and distract her councils, as well as the
misrepresentations of the virtuous intentions of the citizens of this me-
tropolis, in this interesting and alarming state of the liberties of America,
the following resolutins were twice read, and the question being sepa-
rately put on each of them, they were passed without one dissentient.
Resolved nem.con. that the stature commonly called the Boston
port act is oppressive to the inhabitants of that town, unconstitutional
in its principles, and dangerous to the liberties of America, and that
therefore we consider our brethren at Boston as now suffering in the com-
mon cause of these colonies.
Resolved, nem. con.that any attack or attempt to abridge the liberties,
or invade the constitution of any of our sister colonies, is mediately an
attack upon the liberties and constitution of all the British colonies.
Resolved, nem. con. that the shutting up of any of the ports in Ame-
rica, with intent to exact from the Americans a submission to parliament-
ary taxations, or extort a reparation of private injuries, is highly uncon-
stitutional, and subversive of the commercial rights of the inhabitants on
this continent.
Resolved, nem.con. that it is the opinion of this meeting, that if
the principal colonies on this continent shall come into a joint resolution
to stop all importation from and exportation to Great Britain till the act
of parliament for blocking up the harbour of Boston be repealed, the
same will prove the salvation of North America and her liberties, and
that, on the other hand, if they continue their exports and imports,
there is great reason to fear that fraud, power, and the most odious op-
pression, will rise triumphant over right, justice, social happiness, and
freedom. Therefore,
Resolved, nem. con. that the departures who shall represent this colony
in congress of American deputies, to be held at Philadelphia, about the
first of September next, are hereby instructed, empowered, and directed,
to engage with a majority of the principal colonies, to agree for this
city, upon a non-importation from Great Britain, of all goods, wares,
and merchandise, until the act for blocking up the harbour of
Boston be repealed, and American grievances redressed; and also to agree
to all such other measures as the congress shall in their wisdom judge ad-
vancive of these great objects, and a general security of the rights and
privileges of America.
Resolved, nem. con. that this meeting will abide by, obey, and ob-
serve all such resolutions, determinations, and measures, which the con-
gress aforesaid shall come into and direct or recommend to be done for
obtaining and securing the important ends mentioned in th foregoing
resolutions; and that an engagement to this effect be immediately entered
into and sent to the congress, to evince them our readiness and determi-
nation to co-operate with or sister colonies for the relief of our distressed
brethren at Boston, as well as for the security of our common rights and
privileges.
Resolved, nem. con. that it is the opinion of this meeting that it
would be proper for every county, without delay, to send
two deputies, chosen by the people, or from the committees chosen by
them in each county to hold, in conjunction with deputies for this
city and county, a convention for the colony, on a day to be appointed,
in order to elect a proper number of deputies to represent the colony in
the general congress; but that if the counties shall conceive this mode
impracticable, or inexpedient, they be requested to give their approbati-
on to the deputies who shall be chosen for this city and county to repre-
sent the colony in congress.
Resolved, nem. con. that a subscription should immediately be set on
foot for the relief of such poor inhabitants of Boston as are or may be de-
prived of the means of subsistence by the operation of the act of parliament
for stopping up the port of Boston; the money which shall arise from
such subscription to be laid out as the city committee of correspondence
shall think will best answer the end proposed.
Resolved, nem. con. that the city committee of correspondence be
and they are hereby instructed to use their utmost endeavours to carry
these resolutions into execution.
Ordered, that these resolutions be printed in the public newspapers of
this city, and transmitted to the different counties in this colony, and
to the committees of correspondence for the neighboring colonies.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Boston, dated July 4.
”I arrived at this devoted town a few days ago. Every thing here
has a most melancholy appearance, except the countenances of the wor-
thy inhabitants, which are as calm and serene as if they were in the
hight of their trade, though they are really distressed more than you can
easily imagine; every method has been used for that purpose by those
engines of tyranny who have done almost every thing in their power,
short of open hostilities, to intimidate and frighten them into compliance.
Their conduct upon this occasion is worthy of themselves; their patience,
resolution, and firmness, under the present oppression, and the many in-
sults they daily meet with from different quarters, is truly astonishing to
their friends and confounding to their enemies. Governor Gage’s pro-
clamation had an effect quite contrary to the design of it; many, who
did not before, now intend to sign it; so that almost every measure taken
by arbitrary power, to subject the people here to slavery, has an effect
directly opposite to the intention of the contrivers. A report prevails in
town that as soon as the soldiers are landed, six or seven of the leading
men are to be taken up and put on board the man of war to be sent home,
or executed here, and that the governor intends to erect his standard,
and order the inhabitants to bring in their arms. Whether the report is
true or not I do not know, but some of the principle people here firmly
believe it, and all the maneuvers for days past seem to indicate such
an intention. For my part, I think it only intended to intimidate; but
if so, it will certainly be lost labour. The train of artillery landed yester-
day and encamped on the common, with the other two regiments that
were there before. The 5th and 38th arrived last week, and are to be
landed tomorrow. Admiral Graves, in the Preston, of 50 guns, arrived
on Friday, and next Wednesday admiral Montague sails for England;
perhaps this is the ship intended to carry home the state prisoners. God
forbid that any such attempt should be made, as the consequences would
certainly be very terrible. Mr. Hancock, who has been dangerously ill,
is much better, and it is hoped will soon be able to go abroad. The
report of his being broke was an infamous falsehood; I am informed by
good authority that his estate is worth 50 or 60,000l. sterling. The
BRAVE BOSTONIANS have not the least notion of giving up the
cause, nor could any thing drive them to think of it, unless they should
be deserted by the other colonies, of which neither they nor I have any
apprehensions.”
BOSTON, July 11. We hear that the acts for the partial administration
of justice in the province of Massachusetts Bay, and for the better regu-
lating the government of the said province, are to take place the first
day of August.
NEW YORK, July 11. Captain Bethune sailed from Charlestown in
company with a sloop for Salem, loaded with rice for the use of the poor
unhappy sufferers at Boston, which was subscribed for them by a few
gentlemen in one evening.
A paragraph under the Newport head, dated July 4, says: Our readers
may be assured that a popish priest is now supported at Nova Scotia by the
administration of Great Britain.
PHILADELPHIA, July 13. Captain Barber left Lisbon the 30th of
May, and informs that an account of the death of the French king was
received there by land, which had been denounced at the court of Lisbon
by the French ambassador. He also informs that it was reported in
Lisbon that the king of Prussia was dead.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in Spotsylvania county, 6 miles above Fred-
ricksburg, containing about 700 acres, with a dwelling house, &c.
the property of the late Doctor Sutherland. This LAND will be sold
altogether, or in lots; and the terms may be known by applying to the
subscriber, in Fredericksburg.
1 WILLIAM SUTHERLAND.
The ship TRIUMPH will certainly sail for London in six weeks,
agreeable to charter, and will take in tobacco, on liberty of con-
signment, at 8l. sterling per ton. Any person inclinable to ship tobacco
in her will be pleased to send their order to Mr. James Donald at Man-
chester, to Mr. Charles Duncan at Blandford, to captain Rogers at Ber-
muda Hundred, or to the subscriber at Curle’s, who will be extremely
obliged by the assistance of his friends.
3 PHILIP MAZZEI.
YORK TOWN, July 27, 1774.
MY mulatto fellow CORNELIUS ran away from this town about
five weeks ago; he was apprehended at Fredericksburg, brought
here and imprisoned, and last night broke goal. While he continued at
Fredericksburg unmolested, he passed as a free man. His wife, a mulatto,
was in company with him; both were considered as free people, and
hired in the harvest by some planters. Their scheme was to get money,
and to proceed back upon the frontiers of Virginia. Whoever apprehends
the mulatto fellow in this colony, and delivers him to me, will be en-
titled to a reward of FIVE POUNDS, or if secured in any of the county
gaols, and immediate notice given to me, THREE POUNDS;
if taken in Carolina, Maryland, or any other colony, and delivered to
me, EIGHT POUNDS, and if taken in another colony, and secured
in any of the county gaols here, SIX POUNDS.
3 JOHN H> NORTON.
**The fellow is middle sized; he carried with him a Russia drill
postilion coat and waistcoat, and an old blue livery cloth suit.
RUN away on the 10th instant July from the subscriber, living
at Aquia, in Stafford, a convict servant man named ROBERT
RIVERS, about 5 feet 4 or 5 inches high, has black hair, and a swarthy
complexion; had on a felt hat almost new, a brown Newmarket coat and
waistcoat, check shirt, brown linen trousers, cotton breeches, and old
shoes. He is by trade a shoemaker. Whoever takes up the said servant,
and secures him so that I get him again, shall have TEN DOLLARS
reward, and reasonable charges allowed.
JAMES HOLLOWAY.
COMMITTED to the goal of Prince George a negro man who says
he belongs to one Gibson in Suffolk, and was sent up the river to
be sold, at which time he run away. He appears to be about 35 years
of age, is well made, and has on an oznabrig shirt and trowsers; he is
about 5 feet 10 inches high. Whoever owns the said negro is desired to
apply for him, and take him away, after proving his property, and pay-
ing charges. () HENRY BATTE.
COMMITTED to Dinwiddie goal, two negro men, who cannot, or
will not, tell their masters names. They have on oznabrig shirts,
sailors jackets, and cotton breeches; one has a short petticoat over his
breeches, the other calls himself JEMMY, is very black, ad much
pitted with the smallpox. The owners are desired to apply for them.
() MATTHEW MAYES.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Orange, a convict man named
HENRY HURST, about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, of a fair
complexion, and a little pitted with the smallpox, has black hair, grey
eyes, and stammers much when frightened; had on a check shirt, with
a brown one over it, a white dimity waistcoat, and oznabrig trowsers.
I will give FORTY SHILLINGS, besides what the law allows, to
whoever will secure him in any goal, so that I may get him; and if
brought home, will allow all reasonable charges. All masters of vessels
are forewarned from carrying him out of the colony.
(1) THOMAS ROBINS.
STRAYED from the subscriber the 12th of May last a yellowish bay
mare, with a blaze face, near 11 hands high, and had a sore on her off
side. As she was bred in Prince Edward county, she will probably en-
deavour to return there. Whoever brings the said mare to me, in Rich-
mond town, shall be well rewarded. 2 JAMES BUCHANAN.
TO BE RENTED,
From year to year, or for a term of years, and entered upon the first day of
September next,
A CONVENIENT TENMENT in the town of Petersburg,
at present in the possession of Mr. Andrew Johnson, whereon is a
commodious storehouse, with a large counting room, and lodging rooms
under the same roof, lumber houses of different sizes and for different
purposes, stables, chairhouse, and a garden well paled in. Any useful
repairs may be made by the tenant, and the expense deducted out of the
rent. The terms, which are extremely low, may be known by applying
to 3 ROLLING STARK.
KING WILLIAM, July10, 1774.
THE SALE of the deceased colonel James Quarles’s NEGROES
that were advertised to be at Aylett’s warehouse on the 13th instant,
is, by consent of parties, deferred until the 10th of August next, at
which time they will most certainly be sold agreeable to the former ad-
vertisement. 3 GOODRICH CRUMP.
JAMES CRAIG,
AT THE GOLDEN BALL,
WILLIAMSBURG,
BEGS leave to inform the public that he has just got an eminent
hand in the WATCH AND CLOCK MAKING BUSINESS,
who served a regular apprenticeship to the same in Great Britain, and
will be obliged to those who favour him with their commands. He
makes and repairs REPEATING, HORIZONTAL, and STOP
WATCHES, in the neatest and best manner. JEWELLERY,
GOLD, and SILVERWORK, as usual, made at the above
shop, for READY MONEY only.
GREEN SPRING, July 13, 1774.
I HEREBY forewarn all persons not to purchase FRUIT or VEGE-
TABLES, or any thing else, from any of the negroes belonging to
the estate of Mr. William Lee, without a note from me, or any of the
overseers who act for the said estate. GRIFFIN FAUNTLEROY.
RAN from the plantation of the subscriber, near the Great Falls of
Potowmack, on the Maryland side, in Frederick county, about the
27 of June, a very likely mulatto slave named ELLIAS, near 5 feet
10 inches high, and about 20 years old; had on, when he went away,
a brown broadcloth coat, a light coloured broadcloth jacket, oznabrig
shirt, short breeches of the same, a new felt hat, and shoes and stockings.
His head, from the crown to the forehead, is remarkably long, and
is much scarred about the mould, proceeding from his having had a scald
head when he was a boy. He has also a scratch on his upper lip, which
may be perceived by taking a near view of it. Whoever delivers him to
me shall receive a reward of THIRTY SHILLINGS, if taken 20 miles
from home, and in proportion to that distance.
3 THOMAS OFFUTT.
TAKEN up, in Charlotte, a well made black horse, about 4 feet 6
inches high, about 16 or 17 years old, branded on the near buttock
W, and has on a bell of 3s. value. Posted, and appraised to 3l. 10s.
* PETER RAWLINS.
PORTSMOUTH, July 5, 1774.
A PURSE of 100 guineas to be run for by any horse, mare, or
gelding, over the two mile course at this place, the best two heats
in three, on Tuesday the 20th of September, carrying weight for age,
agreeable to the articles of the said, purse, which are to be seen in the
hands of Mr. Richard Nestor, merchant there, with whom all horses
starting for the said purse are to be entered, the day before the race at
farthest. The money to be paid to the winner immediately after the
race. It is also proposed to have two more races, one on the Wednesday
following, for 50l. the other on Thursday, for 30l. which will be adver-
tised particularly, as soon as the subscriptions are full.
TO BE SOLD,
THE noted and well accustomed TAVERN, at present occupied by
the subscriber, lying in James City county, about 15 miles from
Williamsburg, on the main road leading to New Kent courthouse and
Ruffn’s ferry, with 500 acres of LAND in good order for cropping, and
6 fields under good fence. The terms of payment will be made easy by
the subscriber. THOMAS DONCASTLE.
RUN away, from Neabico furnace, the 16th of
March, a light coloured mulatto man named
BILLY, or WILL, the property of the honourable
John Tayloe, esquire. When I tell the public that he
is the same boy who for many ears used to wait on me,
in my travels through this and the neighboring pro-
vince, and by his pertness, or rather imprudence, was
well known to all my acquaintances, there is the less
occasion for a particular description of him. However,
as he is now grown to the size of a man, and has not at-
tended me in some time past, I think it not amiss to say
that he is a very likely young fellow, about 20 years
old, 5 feet 9 inches high, stout and strong made, has a
remarkable swing in his walk, but is much more so by a
surprizing knack he has of gaining the good graces of
almost every body who will listen to his bewitching and
deceitful tongue, which seldom or ever speaks the truth.
He has a small scar on the right side of his forehead, and
the little finger of his right hand is quite straight by a
hurt he got when a child. Had on, when he went away,
a blue fearnought jacket, and an under one of green
baize, cotton breeches, oznabrig shirt, mixed blue sale
stockings, country made shoes, and yellow buckles.
From his ingenuity, he is capable of doing almost any
sort of business, and for some years past, has been chiefly
employed as a founder, a stone mason, and a miller, as
occasion required; one of which trades, I imagine, he
will, in the character of a free man, profess. I have
some reason to suspect his travelling towards James river,
under the pretence of being sent by me on business.
Whoever apprehends the said fellow, and brings him to
me, or to his master, the honourable John Tayloe, at
Mountairy, or secure him so as to be had again, shall
have treble what the law allows, and all reasonable
charges paid. tf
THOMAS LAWSON.
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 Flem-
ing, John Massey, and John Lain, are now in possession
of the plantations, who will shew the land to any person
inclinable to purchase, and Major Thomas Johnson will
agree with them for the price. The above tract is esteem-
ed 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,
ABOUT twelve thousand acres of exceeding rich
TOBACCO LAND in Amherst county, whereon
are several plantations and improvement 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 MILL-
STONES, which mill has for two years past got up-
wards 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. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probable we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
KING HEROD
STANDS at Rosegill, and will cover mares at FOUR
POUNDS the season. Those who send mares must
send the money, otherwise they shall not be left. The
valuable qualities, and the pedigree, of this horse are
sufficiently notorious. RALPH WORMELEY, junior.
To be SOLD, at public auction, at Westmoreland court-
house, on Tuesday the 27th day of September, being
Westmoreland court day,
TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born SLAVES.
Credit will be allowed until the 10th of November
following, on giving bond and good security. The
bonds to bear interest from the date, if not punctually
discharged. tdf RICHARD PARKER.
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.
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.
TO BE SOLD,
A TRACT of LAND in Berkley and Frederick
counties, containing 12,076 acres; it lies 7 miles
on each side of Shenando river, the quantity on the east
side, being only a slip of low ground, is inconsiderable;
the quality of the land is remarkably good, and the con-
veniences attending it great. There are two plentiful
streams of water running through marshes three miles in
length, some of which are already reclaimed meadows,
and the rest, at a very small expence, might soon be re-
duced to the like state. On each side of the streams mills
might be erected and furnaces, the land affording stone,
lime, iron, and lead ore. On one of the streams I have
already erected a complete merchant mill, with a pair of
the best French burrs for grinding of wheat, and a pair
of common stones for grinding of Indian corn; besides
this, there is near the dwelling house a tub mill, and on
the other stream there is a valuable saw mill. There
are five settled and improved plantations; on one of
them is a good house, 2 stories high, with 2 rooms
on a floor, a kitchen, dairy, and all other convenient out
houses; on another plantation, where Michael Pike lived,
there is a good stone house; and at the other plantations
there are overseers houses, negro quarters, barns, stables,
tobacco houses, &c. The above tract shall be either par-
titioned off in lots of 1000 or 500 acres, or sold bodily to
one purchaser. Belonging to this estate there are 112
negroes to be disposed of, together with all the stocks of
cattle, equal to any in the colony, horses, mares, colts,
hogs, &c. likewise all the necessary implements for the
planter or farmer. Any person or persons inclinable to
purchase are desired to make their proposals to me at
Rosegill, on Rappahannock river, or to leave them with
the overseer, who lives at the house plantation, and will
shew the land. In November I shall be on the premises,
and may then be personally treated with. Part of this
land, and some of the negroes, belong to my eldest son,
who leaves to me the disposition thereof, and will confirm
any engagement I enter into on his part.
6 RALPH WORMELEY.
TO BE RENTED,
FROM YEAR TO YEAR, OR FOR A TERM OF YEARS,
BELVOIR,
THE beautiful seat of the honourable George William
Fairfax, esquire, lying upon the Potowmack river, in
Fairfax county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The
mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four con-
venient rooms and a large passage upon the lower floor,
five rooms and a large passage on the second, and a servants
hall and cellars below; convenient offices, stables, and
coach house, adjoining, as also a large and well furnish-
ed 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 se-
veral valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land
in different parts, which may be let altogether, or sepa-
rately, 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.
To be Sold, pursuant to an act of assembly, on Mon-
day the 1st of August next, being Prince William
court day,
THE glebe lands of Dettingen parish, in the said
county, adjoining the lands of the present incum-
bent the reverend James Scott, situate on Quantico Run,
about 9 miles from Dumfries, and containing about 400
acres. The soil is good for wheat or tobacco, and there
may be got a considerable quantity on the same.
3 HENRY LEE, churchwardens.
LEWIS RENO,
FOR SALE,
FIVE hundred acres of land, lying on Deep Creek, in
Louisa, about 45 miles of Richmond town, and is
exceeding good land, well watered by Deep Creek, and
a large branch thereof, which runs through the middle
of the land, and affords a large quantity of rich meadow
ground. Any person inclinable to purchase may see the
land, and know the terms, by applying to the subscriber,
living near it. tf 1* GEORGE MERIWETHER.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
For SALE,
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 situ-
ation 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 years 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.
FOR SALE,
And to be entered upon at Christmas next,
A VERY valuable tract of LAND in King William
county, on Pamunkey river, adjoining the land of
the late Mr. John Smith, of Hanover county, deceased,
containing 800 acres, more or less, the soil is very rich,
and exceedingly well adapted for wheat, corn, or tobacco,
particularly the first and second, being low grounds;
and there is a considerable quantity of high grounds.
It has plenty of good pine and oak timber upon it, con-
venient houses, and is in good order for cropping, is
about two miles from Hanover town, and very convenient
to church and two mills. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may be shewn the land by applying to Mr. Christo-
pher Taliaferro, or Mr. William Jones, who resides near
the same, and the terms may be also known by applying
to these gentlemen, or to the subscriber.
tf THOMAS JONES
To be SOLD, together or in parcels,
THAT fertile and well timbered tract of LAND,
lying in Princess Anne county, known by the name
of GIBBS”S WOODS, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stands seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Persons inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy in
Williamsburg, who will give an undoubted title. tf
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately,
A TRACT of LAND containing 1300 acres, more
or less, on Pianketank river, in Gloucester county.
It is needless to be particular about it as it is the same I
advertised last year and then gave a full account of it,
since then I sold it to John Attway Clarke, of Maryland,
but as he refuses to take it, necessity obliges me once more
to offer it to the public. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may know the terms by applying to me in Mid-
dlesex. I want part of the money at the meeting of the
merchants, and for the remainder I will give reasonable
credit. tf AUGUSTINE SMITH.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox river, on each side of Great Ducker’s and Mayo
creeks. Tobacco has been carried above this land 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous 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 encumbrance whatsoever.
A reasonable time of payment will be allowed.
tf ANTHONY WINSTON.
Supplement to the Virginiia Gazette. July 28, 1774.
At a Meeting of the Freeholders of Hanover County, at the Courthouse, on
Wednesday the 20th of July, 1774, the folowing Address was agreed
to.
To JOHN SYME and PATRICK HENRY, Junior, Esquires.
GENTLEMEN,
YOU have our Thanks for your patriotick, faithful,
and spirited Conduct, in the Part you acted in the
late Assembly as our Burgesses; and as we are greatly
alarmed at the Pro-ceedings of the British Parliament
respecting the Town of Boston and the Province of
Massachusetts Bay, and as we understand a Meeting
of Delegates from all the Coun-ties in this Colony is
appointed to be in Williamsburg on the first Day of
next Month, to deliberate on our publick Affairs, we do hereby appoint
you, Gentlemen, our Delegates; and we do request you then and there
to meet, consult, and advise, touching such Matters as are most likely to
effect our Deliverance from the Evils with which our Country is threatened.
The Importance of those Things which will offer themselves for your
Deliberation is ex-ceeding great; and when it is considered that the Ef-
fect of the Measures you may adopt will reach our latest Posterity, you
will excuse us for giving you our Sentiments, and pointing out some
Particulars proper for that Plan of Conduct we wish you to observe.
We are Freemen. We have a Right to be so, and to enjoy all the
Privileges and Immuni-ties of our Fellow Subjects in England; and
while we retain a just Sense of that Freedom, and those Rights and
Privileges necessary for its Safety and Security, we shall never give up
the Right of Taxation. Let it suffice to say, once for all, we will
never be taxed but by our own Representatives. This is the great
Badge of Freedom, and British America hath been hitherto distinguished
by it; and when we see the British Parliament trampling upon that
Right, and acting with determined Resolution to destroy it, we would
wish to see the united Wisdom and Fortitude of America collected for
its Defence.
The Sphere of Life in which we move hath not afforded us Lights
sufficient to determine with Certainty, concerning those Things from
which the Troubles of Boston originated. Whether the People there
were warranted by Justice when they destroyed the Tea, we know not;
but this we know, that the Parliament, by their Proceedings, have made
us, and all North America, Parties in the present Dispute, and deeply
interened in the Event of it, inso-much that if our Sister Colony of Mas-
sachusetts Bay is enslaved we cannot long remain free.
Our Minds are filled with Anxiety when we view the friendly Regards
of our Parent State turned into Enmity, and those Powers of Govern-
ment formerly exerted for our Aid and Pro-tection formed into dangerous
Efforts for our Destruction. We read our intended Doom in the Boston
Port Bill, in that for altering the Mode of Trial in criminal Cases,
and finally in the Bill for altering the Form of Government in the
Massachusetts Bay. These several Acts are replete with Injustice and
Oppression, and strongly expressive of the future Policy of Brit-ain
towards all her Colonies. If a full and uncontrouled Operation is given
to this detesta-ble System in its earlier Stages, it will probably be fixed
upon us for ever.
Let it therefore be your great Object to obtain a speedy Repeal of
those Acts, and for this Purpose we recommend the Adoption of such
Measures as may produce the hearty Union of all our Countrymen and
Sister Colonies. United, we stand; divided, we fall. To attain this
wished for Union, we declare our Readiness to sacrifice any lesser In-
terest arising from a Soil, Climate, Situation, or Productions peculiar
to us.
We judge it conducive to the Interests of America that a general
Congress of Deputies, from all the Colonies, be held, in Order to form
a Plan for guarding the Claims of the Colonies, and their constitutional
Rights, from future Encroachments, and for the speedy Relief of our
suffering Brethren at Boston. For the present we think it proper to
form a general As-sociation against the Purchase of all Artcles of Goods
imported from Great Britain, except Negroes Clothes, Salt, Saltpetre,
Powder, Lead, Utensils and Implements for Handicrafts, Men and
Manufacturers that cannot be had in America, Books, Paper, and the
like Necessaties, and not to purchase any Goods or Merchandise that
shall be imported from Great Britain after a certain Day that may be
agreed on for that Purpose by the said general Meeting or Deputies at
Williamsburg, except the Articles aforesaid, or such as shall be al-lowed
to be imported by the said Meeting; and that we will encourage the
Manufactures of America, by every Means in our Power. A Regard
to Justice hinders us at this Time from withholding Exports; nothing
but the direst Necessity shall induce us to adopt that Proceeding, which
we shall strive to avoid as long as possible.
The African Trade for Slaves we consider as most dangerous to Vir-
tue, and the Welfare of this Country. We therefore most earnestly wish
to see it totally discouraged.
A steady Loyalty to the Kings of England has ever distinguished our
Country. The pre-sent State of things here, as well as the many In-
stances of it to be found in our History, leave no Room to doubt it.
God grant we may never see the Time when that Loyalty shall be found
incompatible with the Rights of Freemen. Our most ardent Desire is,
that we and your latest Posterity may continue to live under the genuine
unaltered Constitution of Eng-land, and be Subjects, in the true Spirit
of that Constgitution, to his Majesty and his illustrious House; and
may the Wretches who affirm that we desire the contrary feel the Punish-
ment due to Falsehood and Villainy.
While Prudence and Moderation shall guide your Councils, we trust,
Gentlemen, that Firmness, Resolution, and Zeal, will animate you in
the glorious Struggle. The Arm of Power, which is now stretched
forth against us, is indeed formidable; but we do not despair: Our
Cause is good; and if it is served with Constancy and Fidelity, it cannot
fail of Success. We promise you our best Support, and we will heartily
join in such Measures as a Majority of our Countrymen shall adopt for
securing the publick Liberty.
Resolved, that the above Address be transmitted to the Printers, to be
published in the Gazettes.
WILLIAM POLLARD, Clerk.
AT a general Meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of the
County of Caroline, at the Courthouse, on Thursday the 14th
of July 1774, assembled for the Purpose of deliberating and giving their
Sentiments upon the present State of Affairs in America, and what
ought to be done at this most alarming Crisis, the following Points were
agitated, and agreed to as the Opinion of this County.
That the Design of our Meeting may not be misinterpreted, we think it
proper to declare, what would otherwise be unnecessary, that we will
preserve all due Obedience and Fidelity to the Royal Person and Govern-
ment of his sacred Majesty King George III. and that we will, at all
Times, when called on for that Purpose, maintain and defend, at the
Expense of our Lives and Fortunes, his Majesty’s Right and Title to
the Crown of Great Britain and his Domin-ions in America.
That a firm Union, and mutual Intercourse and Reciprocation of
Interests and Affections, between Great Britain and her Colonies, is
desirable and beneficial to both; and that whoever shall go about to
dissolve that Union, by attempting to deprive the Colonies of their just
Rights, on the one Hand, or to effect their Independence, on the other, ought
ever to be considered as a common Enemy to the whole Community.
That for Americans to be exempted from every Kind of Taxation,
except by the consent of their own Representatives, in their several
Provencial Assemblies, to be heard in their De-fence when accused of
Crimes, and tried by their Peers, are Rights they derive from natu-ral
Justice and the British Constitution, to which they are equally entitled
with their Fellow Subjects in Great Britain, and from constant Usage,
so long as the true Principles of the Con-stitution have been suffered to
direct the publick Councils.
That the British Parliament, in their several Acts of imposing a Duty
upon Tea, to be paid in America; for blocking up the Harbour and
stopping the Commerce of the Town of Boston, in the Massachusetts
Bay, for supposed Offences with which they were charged, and con-
demned unheard; for altering the Form of that Government, estab-
lished by Charters and long Usage; and for empowering his Majesty to
order Persons charged with certain Of-fences committed in America to be
carried to Great Britain, and there tried; have been influ-enced by evil
Counsellors to depart from the true Principles of the Constitution, and to
violate the most sacred and important Rights of Americans, from which
they never can depart.
That those Acts, whether intended to operate only in one Province,
or generally in all, ought to be considered as the common Cause; and
that a firm and indissoluble Union and Association of the Whole ought
to be formed, to oppose their Operation by every just and proper Means.
To effect which, we think the sending Deputies from each Province, to
meet in a general Congress, will be a very proper Measure; and we de-
sire our Dele-gates may unite with others, in the general Meeting for this
Colony, in electing such Depu-ties.
That Tea being the Subject of the Tax complained of, and the East
India Company having acted ungenerously in sending great Quantities of
it to America, to fix the Precedent of Taxa-tion (though desired to for-
bear) we most cordially concur with the late Representatives of this
Colony to disuse Tea, and not to purchase any East India Commo-
dities from hence-forth, until the just Rights of America be restored.
That a general Association between all the American Colonies, not to
import from Great Britain any Commodity whatever, ought to be en-
tered into, and not dissolved till the just Rights of the said Colonies are
restored to them, and the cruel Acts of the British Parliament against
the Massachusetts Bay and Town of Boston are repealed.
That it is the undoubted Privilege, and indispensable Duty, of the
Representatives of the People of this Colony, when met in General As-
sembly, to deliberate freely upon all Invasions of the Rights, Liberties,
and Properties of their Constituents, and consider of the proper Means
of Redress; and therefore, that the Interposition of the executive Power
here, by Mandate from the Ministry, to dissolve the Assembly, whenever
they complain of Attempts to destroy those Rights, tends to deprive us
of all Benefit from a Legislature, and is an Evidence of the fixed Intention
of the Ministry to reduce the Colonies to a State of Slavery.
That, in this distressed Situation of our Affairs, all Luxury, Dissi-
pation, and Extrava-gance, ought to be banished from among us; and
every Kind of Manufacture, Industry, and Economy, encouraged.
That the African Trade is injurious to this Colony, obstructs our
Population by Freemen, Manufacturers, and others, who would
emigrate from Europe and settle here, and occasions an annual Balance
of Trade against the Country; and therefore, that the Purchase of all
imported Slaves ought to be associated against.
Though we are happily allowed to proceed to the Choice of new
Representatives, yet as the Return of the Writs is made to the 11th of
August, and there is Reason to doubt the As-sembly may not be held at
that Time, we think it highly expedient there should be a Meeting at
Williamsburg on the 1st of August, as appointed, to consider fully of the
several Matters herein before mentioned; and we do appoint EDMUND
PENDLETON and JAMES TAYLOR, Esquires, Deputies on our Parts,
to meet such as shall be named for other Counties and Cor-porations, at
Williamsburg, or such other Place as may be agreed upon on the Day
aforsaid, or any other Time, to deliberate freely, and agree to the above
Resolutions, or any other that may be judged more expedient for the
general Purpose intend-ed.
WILLIAM NELSON, Clerk.
At a Meeting of the loyal and patriotic People of the County of Henrico, at
their Courthouse, on the 15th of this Instant July, the following Address to
their late worthy Representatives was agreed on, and signed by a great
Number of the Freeholders.
To RICHARD ADAMS and SAMUEL DUVAL, Esquires.
WE the Subscribers, Freeholders of the County of Henrico, assem-
bled for the Purpose of deliberating on the present Posture of
publick Affairs, return you our Thanks for the Part you acted in the
late Assembly, as our Burgesses.
When we reflect on the alarming and critical Situation of Things
respecting the Mother Country, our Minds are filled with the most
anxious Concern. The Acts of the British Parliament made for punishing
the Inhabitants of Massachusetts Bay are repugnant to the first Principles
of Justice, and if they are suffered to have a full Operation will not only
crush our Sister Colony, and involve the Guilty and Innocent in one
common Ruin, but will stand as a fatal Precedent to future Times for
adopting the same fatal Measures towards this and every other British
Colony. We therefore have passed this Determination, and shall conduct
ourselves conformably, that the Cause of the Colony of Massachusetts Bay
in general, and of the Town of Boston in particular, is the Cause of this
and every other Colony in North America.
We hope Gentlemen, that the exceeding great Importance of the
present Crisis will plead our Excuse for giving you our Sentiments touch-
ing that Conduct which we wish you to observe in the ensuing Congress,
on the first Day of August next, at Williamsburg, to which we depute
you to act on our Behalf.
With Grief and Astonishment, we behold Great Britain adopting a Mode
of Government towards her Colonies totally incompatible with our Safety
and Happiness. We cannot submit to be taxed by her Parliament; we
cannot sit still and see the Harbour of Boston blocked up by an armed
Force; we cannot behold, without Indignation, the Charter Rights of a
Sister Colony violated, or the Form of its Government changed, by an
Act of Parliament as derogotary to the Honour of the Mother Country as
it is repugnant to Justice; and lastly, we will not suffer our Fellow Sub-
jects to be seized and transported beyond Sea, to be tried for supposed
Offences committed here. If these Things are suffered to be reduced to
Practice, we shall account ourselves the most miserable of Men, unworthy
the Name of Freemen; we shall not wonder if in future we are treated
as Slaves.
We therefore most solemnly charge and conjure you to use your best
Endeavours to save us from these Calamities. We earnestly entreat you
for your utmost Exertion, to procure, by all possible Ways and Means,
a total Repeal of the late oppressive and detestable Acts of Parliament.
We trust you will heartily concur in such Measures as the said Congress,
shall judge most efficacious to preserve our ancient Rights; for be assured,
Gentlemen, that nothing shall ever induce from us a Submission to
Tyranny, and that we resolve, once for all, to live and die Freemen.
In Order to effect those desirable Ends, we give it as our Opinion
that the most effectual Method for opposing the said several Acts of
Parliament will be that a general Association between all the American
Colonies ought immediately to be entered into, not to import from Great
Britain any Commodity whatsoever, except such Articles as the General
Congress shall judge necessary, until the just Rights of the Colonies are
restored to them, and the cruel Acts of the British Parliament against the
Colony of Massachusetts Bay, and Town of Boston, are repealed.
A love of Justice, and the tender Regard we have for our Friends, the
Merchants and Manufacturers of Great Britain, to whom we are indebted,
and who must of Course suffer in the common Cause, prevents our recom-
mending the stopping our Exports at this Time; but, at a future Day,
we will heartily concur with the other Counties of this Colony to stop all
Exports, as well as Imports, to and from Great Britain, unless what we
have already recommended to you shall be found effectual.
We most cordially recommend that no Time be lost in administering
every Comfort and Aid to our distressed Brethren of Boston that their
unhappy State may require, and may comport with our Situation to
afford.
We farther recommend to you, that you will, in Conjunction with
the Deputies from the different Counties of this Colony, choose fit and
proper Persons, on the Part of this Colony, to meet the Deputies from
the other Colonies in a General Congress, at such convenient Time and
Place as shall be agreed on, then and there to advise and consult upon
such Measures as (under the Circumstances of Things at that Time) they
shall deem expedient.
We strictly charge and enjoin, that at all Times, and on all Occasions
which may present, you testify our Zeal for his Majestly’s Person and
Government; and that we are ready and willing, with our Lives and
Fortunes, to support his Right to the Crown of Great Britain, and all
its Dependencies.
AT a general Meeting of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of the
County of Nansemond, on the 11th Day of July 1774, the follow-
ing Resolutions were proposed, and unanimously agreed to.
Resolved, that we will, at all Times, whenever we are called upon
for that Purpose, maintain and defend, at the Expense of our Lives and
Fortunes, his Majesty’s Right and Title to the Crown of Great Britain
and his Dominions in America, to whose Royal Person and Government
we profess all due Obedience and Fidelity.
Resolved that the Right to impose Taxes or Duties to be paid by the
Inhabitants within this Dominion, for any Purpose whatsoever, is pecu-
liar and essential to the General Assembly, in whom the legislative Autho-
rity of the Colony is vested.
Resolved, that every Attempt to impose such Taxes or Duties by any
other Authority is an arbitrary Exertion of Power, and an Infringment of
the constitutional Rights and Liberties of the Colony.
Resolved, that to impose a Tax or Duty upon Tea by the British Par-
liament, in which the Commons of the North American Colonies can
have no Representation, to be paid upon Importation by the Inhabitants
of the said Colonies, is an Act of Power without Right, is subversive of
the Liberties of the said Colonies, deprives them of their Prroperty without
their Consent, and thereby reduces them to a State of Slavery.
Resolved, that the last cruel, unjust, and sanguinary Acts of Parlia-
ment, to be exercuted by military Force and Ships of War upon our Sister
Colony of Massachusetts Bay, and Town of Boston, is a strong Evidence
of the corrupt Influence obtained by the British Ministry in Parliament,
and a convincing Proof of their fixed Intention to deprive the Colonies
of their constitutional Rights of Liberties.
Resolved, that the Cause of the Town of Boston is the common Cause
of all the American Colonies.
Resolved, that it is the Duty and Interest of all the American Colonies
firmly to unite in an indissoluble Union and Association, to oppose, by
every just and proper Means, the Infringement of their common Rights
and Liberties.
Resolved, that a general Association between all the American Colo-
nies, not to import from Great Britain any Commodity whatsoever, ought
to be entered into, and not dissolved until the just Rights of the said
Colonies are restored to them, and the cruel Acts of this British Parlia-
ment against the Manssachusetts Bay, and Town of Boston, are repealed.
Resolved, that no Friend to the Rights and Liberties of America ought
to purchase any Commodity whatsoever which shall be imported from
Great Britain after a certain Time hereafter to be limited by the Congress
which is shortly expected to meet, nor ought such to have any Kind of
Dealing or Connexion with any Merchant who shall refuse to agree to
the Measure hereafter to be adopted by said Congress.
Resolved, that every Kind of Luxury, Dissipation, and Extravagance,
ought to be banished from amongst us.
Resolved, that Manufactures ought to be encouraged, by opening
Subscriptions for that Purpose, or by any other proper Means.
Resolved, that the African Trade is injurious to this Colony, obstructs
the Population of it by Freemen, prevents Manufacturers and other use-
ful Emigrants from Europe from settling amongst us, and occasions an
annual Increase of the Balance of Trade against this Colony.
Resolved, that this raising Sheep, Hemp, and Flax, ought to be en-
couraged.
Resolved, that ot be clothed in Manufactures fabricated in the Colony
ought to be considered as a Badge and Distinction of Respect, and true
Patriotism.
Resolved, that the dissolution of the General Assembly, by Order of
the British Ministry, whenever they enter upon the Consideration of the
Rights and Liberties of the Subject, against Attempts to destroy them, is
an Evidence of the fixed Intention of the said Ministry to recuce the Co-
lonies to a State of Slavery.
Resolved, that the People of this Colony, being by such Dissolution
deprived of a legal Representation, ought to nominate and appoint, for
every County, proper Deputies to meet upon the first Day of August, in
the City of Williamsburg, then and there to consult and agree upon the
best and most proper Means for carrying into Execution these,or any
other Resolutions, which shall be judged more expedient for the Purposes
aforesaid.
Resolved, that LEMUEL RIDDICK and BENJAMIN BAKER, Esqrs.
our late Representatives, be, and they are hereby nominated and ap-
pointed Deputies, upon the Part of the Freeholders and Inhabitants of
this County, to meet such Deputies as shall be appointed by the other
Counties and Corporations within the Colony, in the City of Williams-
burg, upon the first Day of August next, or at any other Time or Place,
for the Purposes aforesaid.
Resolved, that at this important and alarming Conjuncture it be ear-
nestly recommended to the said Deputies, at the said general Convention,
that they nominate and appoint fit and proper Persons, upon the Part of
this Colony, to meet such Deputies, in a general Congress, as shall be
appointed upon the Part of the other continental Colonies in America,
to consult and agree upon a firm and indissoluble Union and Association,
for preserving, by the best and most proper Means, their common Rights
and Liberties.
Resolved, that this Colony ought not to trade with any Colony which
shall refuse to join in any Union and Association that shall be agreed
upon by the greater Part of the other Cononies upon this Continent, for
preserving their common Rights and Liberties.
Resolved, that a Copy of these Resolutions be transmitted to each of
the Printers of both the Gazettes, with the earnest Request of this County
that the other Counties and Corporations within the Colony will appoint
Deputies to meet at the Time and Place, and for the Puposes, aforesaid.
ADVERTISEMENTS.
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately.
THE PLANTATION of Moses Hare, deceased, of Hertford County,
North Carolina, with several Pieces of valuable Land adjoining
thereto, the Whole about three Miles in Length and one in Breadth;
there is on the Plantation about 150 Acres cleared, with a beautiful
Meadow before of about 100 Acres, which affords a charming Prospect,
and makes an excellent Pasture; it is in very good Repair, with extra-
ordinary good Improvements of almost all Kinds, lies on the great Wag-
gon Road from Suffolk Town in Virginia to the greatest Part of Carolina,
and is most commodiously situated for a Store and Tavern, with many
other Conveniencies too tedious to mention. Any Person inclinable to
purchase may have a great Bargain, by timely applying to Captain Ed-
ward Hare, near the Premises, or the Subscriber, near Bath Town, in
Beaufort County. MOSES HARE.
To Be SOLD by the Subsciber, in Petersburg, for
Cash, Wheat, or Tobacco,
BARBADOS RUM and SPIRITS, Muscovado SUGAR, WHITE
GINGER, PEPPER, Russia DRILLINGS and SHEETINGS,
Women’s Calimanco SHOES, 4d and 8d NAILS, some Boxes of assorted
DUROYS, SAGATHIES, and TRIMMINGS, also a few Pieces of
fashionable SILKS. EMANUEL WALKER.
THURSDAY, JUNE 23, 1774. NUMBER 424.
THE
VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3s. the first Week,
and 2s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.-----PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
To the printer of the PENNSYLVANIA PACKET.
SIR,
THE English constitution, which hath stood the
test of ages, and been the envy and wonder
of surrounding nations, seems now verging
towards a dissolution. Luxury, corruption,
and an inordinate lust of power, hath been
infinitely more fatal than the hostile attacks of all her
other foes, and hath finally proved triumphant in Eng-
land, and, I may say, without pretending to a spirit of
prophecy, that American freedom will soon be annihi-
lated, unless we unitedly exert our utmost virtue and
firmness; nothing less can recue our liberties, now
eagerly grasped by the ruffian hand of power. I lament
the unhappy situation of both worlds, and when I think
of England, that once renowned seat of freedom and
justice, I cannot, in the agony of my mind, help ex-
claiming in the prophetic language of John of Gaunt,
as given by the inimitable Shakespeare:
”England bound in with the triumphant sea, whose
”rocky shore beats back the enemies of watry Neptune,
”is bound in with shame, with inky blots and rotten
”parchment bonds, that England that was wont to con-
”quer others hath made a shameful conquest of itself,
”Ah!”----
The following little extract gave me such pleasure in
the perusal, that I would wish to see it recorded among
the useful performances that grace your paper:-----
”As the people are the fountain of power and authority,
the original seat of majesty, the authors of laws, and
the creators of officers to execute them, if they shall
find the powers they have conferred abused by their
trustees, their majesty violated by tyranny, or by usur-
pation, their authority prostituted to support violence,
or sereen corruption, the laws grown pernicious through
accidents unforeseen, or unavoidable, or rendered in-
effectual through the infidelity and corruption of the
executors of them, then it is their right, and what is
their right is their duty, to resume that delegated power,
and call their trustees to an account, to resist the usur-
pation and extirpate the tyranny, to restore their sullied
majesty and prostituted authority, to suspend, alter, or
abrogate, those laws, and punish their unfaithful and
corrupt officers; nor is it the duty only of the united
body, but every member of it ought, according to his
respective rank, power, and weight, in the community,
to concur in advancing and supporting those glorious
designs.
”The obligations of every Briton to fulfil the politi-
cal duties receive a vast accession of strength when he
calls to mind of what a noble and well balanced consti-
tution of government he has the honour to partake; a
constitution founded on common reason, common con-
sent, and common good; a constitution of free and equal
laws, secured against arbitrary will and popular licence,
by an admirable temperament of the governing powers,
controuling and controuled by one another. How must
every one who has tolerable honesty to acknowledge its
happy effects, venerate and love a constitution in which
the majesty of the people is, and has been, frequently
recognized, in which kings are made and unmade by
the choice of the people, laws enacted, or annulled only
by their own consent, and for their own good, in which
none can be deprived of their property, abridged of their
freedom, or forfeit their lives without an appeal to the
laws, and the verdict of their peers or equals; a consti-
tution, in fine, the nurse of heroes, the parent of liberty,
the patron of learning and arts, the dominion of laws,
the pride of Briton, the envy of her neighbors, and
their sanctuary too! How dissolute and execrable must
their character and conduct be who, instead of sacrificing
their interest and ambition, will not part with the least
degree of either, to preserve inviolate, and entail in full
vigour to their posterity, such a glorious constitution,
the labour of so many ages, and price of so much blood
and treasure, but would chuse rather to sacrifice if, and
all their own independency, freedom, and dignity, to
personal power and hollow grandeur, to any little page-
ant of a king, who should prefer being the master of
slaves to being the guardian of freemen, and consider
himself as the proprietor, not the father, of his people?
But words cannot express the selfishness and servility of
those men, and as little the public and heroic spirit of
such, if any such there are, as have virtue enough still
left to them the torrent of corruption, and guard our
sacred constitution against the profligacy and prostitution
of the corruptors and the corrupted.”
From the PUBLIC LEDGER.
To Lord CLARE.
My LORD,
DURING your administration, the colonies were
noted for their active zeal in support of his ma-
jesty’s royal family, and of the power of the whole
English nation, in and out of the island of Britain.
Since the unhappy measures, which the arts of design-
ing men have misled ministers into, which were by you
in their beginnings opposed, your wisdom and experi-
ence shewed you the weakness and wickedness of the per-
sons persuaded, and the creatures persuading them; you
foresaw, and with manly fortitude represented against
them; and when your strong and clear arguments did
not convince, you nobly declined contributing towards
measures of which you saw the dangerous tendency. To
you, my lord, the people of Bristol lift their eyes, trusti-
ting that you will assist them In shewing to the honourable
body, “of which you are a member,” the dreadful con-
dition the trade of this city will be reduced to if any
violent measures should be taken in America. Your lord-
ship knows that the city hath had but little trade to Tur-
key, and even that little is lessened by the present trou-
bles of the Levant; that the Italian trade is become very
considerable; that the severe regulations of the govern-
ment of Portugal, and the edicts of the king of Spain,
hath reduced our commerce with those kingdoms so
much as to make it a most considerable object. Our de-
pendence now is on the American and Irish trades. Sup-
pose the representatives of the India company, on behalf
of themselves, and some governors and crown officers,
whose conduct hath been complained of by the people ,
should be believed, what must be the natural consequence
but determinations unjust to the accused, and hurtful to
the interest of these realms? The India company, whose
conduct hath not always been judged immaculate, and
governors and governmental officers, who have been ac-
cused and never tried, it is hoped these are not to be ad-
mitted as evidence against a body of some millions of the
English nation. I cannot believe what is said of these
accused towns and provinces; are they not to be heard
in answer before determination? We hope, if such at-
tempts are made, your lordship will use the great advan-
tages your elocution and experience give you, in prevail-
ing that both parties may be heard. The people com-
plain of oppression by a monopolizing company, and the
people complain of governmental officers for misdemean-
ors, oppressions, and misrepresenting his majesty’s good
subjects, and striving to raise discord. This was a crime
in Scotland punished with death, under the name of leige
leesing. A peer of the name of Campbell, an ancestor
of the earl of Bute, was condemned to death for this
crime. If instead of hearing the people in their defence,
against the heavy charges laid against them, you should
proceed to judgement against them, and allow allegatato
have the force of probata,this must give no reputation
to the justice of the proceedings of such a court. Sup-
pose this interested, monopolizing company, should pre-
vail, and men of war and armies should be ordered to
force the English in America to drink tea, as they were
sent to force the unhappy people of Indostan to chew
beetel, the effect would probably be the same: There
would be massacres and famine; but no money accruing
to the government. My lord, you know the nature of
trade, which for years flourished under your direction;
you know that North America is mostly supplied from
Great Britain with goods; that teas, amongst others,
were sent by the merchants chiefly from London, to their
correspondents there, whose houses had the advantage
either of the sale or the commission. The people there
complain that a monopolizing company send over teas
on the account of a body corporate;an exclusive body
corporate, which has no rightto trade in America.
Some people opposed this, which they took to be an il-
legal action of the said company. We have heard the
matter so; is it not therefore fitting to try whether this
is so or not, before you justify the company? If the com-
pany have the liberty granted of trading to, and having
warehouses in, America, under any pretence, there is an
end of the trade of Britain; an end of the riches of Lon-
don, Bristol, and Liverpool. The company will be able
to supply, with all manufacturers from China and Coro-
mandel, cheaper than our merchants and manufacturers
can goods from Britain; and we know they can smuggle,
even in the river Thames, how much more in the vast
rivers and coast of America? What must the revenue lose
by such a step? Next, your lordship knowing the mer-
chants and planters in America are indebted to those in
Britain; the sums together are immense. If any distress
is laid on those in America, it will disable them from
paying us, and we from paying duties and excise, as
well as from supporting our families. You see, my
lord, the dreadful consequences of precipitate measures.
We are happy in having a representative of your lord-
ship’s experience, courage, and elocution, and trust in
your preserving us and the nation from ruin.
A MAJORITY of MERCHANTS.
From the BOSTON GAZETTE.
Messieurs EDES and GILL,
THIS country never yet saw a time in which the
people, and of course theirfathersandrepresent-
tatives, ought tostand more firmand play the man;
never was there a time in which a wise, upright, and
steady council of the land, was more necessary to our
common safety. A weak and pusillanimous counsellor,
at this period, may do more mischief than many wise
and intrepid ones will be able to remedy in an age. Let
us throw aside personal attachment and private connec-
tion; let us consider the evils which we may do by a bad
choice;; evils which it will never be in our power to cor-
rect, though we weep tears of blood. If we have ever
given our suffrages for wicked, base, or unworthy cha-
racters, let us now repent of that great sin, and make
the best reparation of our injured brethren and posterity,
that we have now power and opportunity, by giving our
voices to none but such who have understanding, inte-
grity, and zeal, to guide the commonwealth, in this
storm of power and oppression. Should we be careless
and unconcerned, indifferent or inactive, at this season,
we shall only endanger the great ship of the state, in
which our treasures are laden; then let us bear weightily
on our mind, that we are all embarked in one common
bottom: Lives and fortune, children and posterity,
must be overwhelmed and sink in case of shipwreck. Let
none of us, therefore, make shipwreck of our consei-
ences, lest we not only perish in this world, but most mi-
serably perish in that which is to come.
AN OLD COMMONER.
From the LONDON GAZETTEER of April 5.
A CHAPTER from the lost book of CHRONICLES.
1. The fast. 4. The men of the united provinces of Hol-
land confer with the men of North America. 40. The
final determination of the latter. 45. Mention is made
of another book.
1. AND behold! Though the men of America waited
the event, yet they waited for it with fear, and
with trembling; they fasted, and the prayed.
2. They put on sackcloth, they rent their garments,
and humbled themselves in the dust, before the lord their
maker.
3. Even before the god of Abraham, the god of Isaac,
and the god of Jacob, did they humble themselves.
4. And now so it was, that the high and mighty states,
even the men of the united provinces of Holland, lift up
their voices, and cried aloud, saying,
5. O ye men of Boston! And all ye inhabitants of
North America! Why are you so disquieted? And where-
fore is it that your souls are so troubled within you?
6. Seeing that we worship one god, and after the same
manner, turn ye now unto us, let us traffic together,
and let us be as one people.
7. And the men of America answered and said, nay,
nay, but wist ye not that our mother, and our elder bre-
thren, have set their faces against us, and are in wrath.
8. Verily, verily, ye above all men ought to know,
and acknowledge, how pleasant and how profitable it is
for brethren to dwell together in unity.
9. Nevertheless, the high and mighty states, even the
men of the united provinces of Holland, cried out with
out ceasing, and said,
10. Albeit as your mother hath become a step mother
unto you, and as your elder brethren have estranged
their countenances from you;
11. Now then, eschew them in the bitterness of your
hearts, forsake them, and cleave unto us.
12. And behold, we will be as a loving mother, and
as loving brethren unto you, henceforth, and for ever-
more.
13. For lo! Have we not heard with our ears, and
hath it not been told unto us, how that your mother
hath given you vinegar when you have asked for milk?
14. That she hath given you a stone when you have
asked for bread, and that she hath given you a serpent
when you have asked for a fish?
15. Furthermore, have not your elder brethren made
hewers of wood, and drawers of water of you?
16. And are they not now seeking to burthen ye with
heavy burthens?
17. Now fear not ye, but be of good cheer, foras-
much as ye must have heard with your ears, and your
forefathers, who fled from persecution, from the house
of Stuart, and from the land of bondage, must have
told ye.
18. How that in the days old, even in the time of
Philip the Second of Spain, our forefathers were also
fore troubled, by means of a governor called the duke
d’Alva.
19. And behold, they named themselves the poor and
distressed states of Holland, and they humbly besought
Elizabeth, the great queen of your forefathers, for suc-
cour, and she gave them help.
20. And our forefathers united>/em> as one man; they
sprang forth like a green leaf; they became lasting as
the evergreen, and sturdy as the might oak tree.
21. An lo! Do not all the princes of the earth call us
high and mighty at this day>
22. Moreover, we cannot but have heard how the
men of Helvetia struggled in a much older time with
the oppression of their oppressors;
23. Who ruled over them with a rod of iron, and
with an outreached arm.
24. And how that the angel of the Lord appeared
unto William Tell, and directed his hands and his eyes,
so that he might shoot the apple upon his son’s head,
without hurting the hair upon the head of his son.
25. And by his means the men of Helvetia became
freemen; and behold, are they not called unto this day,
the freemen of Switzerland, even of the thirteen cantons
thereof?
26. Now, then, arise ye also as one man, unite ye to-
gether, gird up your loins, and make your appeal unto
him who sitteth above the clouds;
27. Who rideth upon the wings of the wind, and who
ruleth the waves of the sea, even unto the most high.
28. And feel ye bold in the cause of freedom;
29. For surely ye are not yet to learn that the race is
not always given to the swift, or the battle to the strong.
30. And the men of America answered the men of the
united provinces of Holland again, saying,
31. Why tempt ye us in the day or our distress, even
in the hour of bitter anguish, to forsake our dearly be-
loved brethren, and our lord the king?
32. Surely some deadly enemy towards the household
of our lord the king, and towards his family, must have
beguiled you with lies, touching our mother and our
brethren;
33. For until the men of Belial waxed numerous, and
powerful at home, we lived together in the most perfect
harmony.
34. We were drawn together with cords of love; we
were a constant comfort and support unto each other in
war and in peace.
35. But now an evil spirit hath gone forth for the de-
struction of us all.
36. And lo! It cometh from the North.
37. Some put their trust in chariots, and some in
horses, but we will seek the Lord our God, and earnestly
beseech him not to harden the hearts of our lord the
king, and of our elder brethren, against us.
38. Peradventure the spirit of oppression may prevail,
but for a time; peradventure it may pass over as the pas-
sing of a heavy cloud.
39. And furthermore, wot we not that out of evil
sometimes cometh forth good.
40. But if it should please the Lord Jehovah to visit
us for our sins, and to punish us for our transgressions,
insomuch that should our elder brethren persist in vio-
lence, and should they bring an armed host against us,
to destroy or enslave us, our wives, our concubines, and
our little ones, to force away our flocks and our herds,
41. Then, but not till then, will we resist with the
arm of flesh; we will call for the sword of the Lord,
and of Gideon, and we will seal the covenant of freedom
with our blood.
42. Then, and not before, shall it be fulfilled as it was
written of the children of Israel, and we will say like
them,
43. “What portion have we in DAVID? What inhe-
ritance have we in the son of JESSE? Every man to your
tents, O Israel; and now, DAVID, see to thine own
house.”
44. And as to the rest of the acts of the men of Ameri-
ca, and the things that they did, their improvements in
the cunning arts and in manufactures, their wares, and
their traffic;
45. Lo! Are they not as yet written only in the book
of fate?
BOSTON, May 30.
The following ADDESS of the episcopal ministers and
wardens was presented to governor Hutchinson on
Monday last, at the castle:
Sir,
THE ministers of the episcopal churches of Boston,
and the neighboring towns, with as many of the
wardens as could conveniently attend, hearing of your
intention to embark in a short time for England, beg
leave to express our unfeigned gratitude for your gene-
rous attention and unwearied application to the impor-
tant interests of this province, in which your wisdom and
integrity have been equally conspicuous. If any of our
fellow citizens have viewed your administration in a less
favourable light, we are persuaded it must be owing to
some misapprehension of your excellency’s intentions.
But that which falls more immediately within our pro-
vince is the regard you have always paid to the interests
of religion, and the favourable notice you have taken of
the church in England, within your government. Be
pleased, sir, to accept this sincere testimony of our re-
spect and gratitude, together with our earnest prayers
that the divine blessing may attend you through the re-
maining stages of your life, and reward you with an
eternity of happiness in the life to come.
His excellency’s answer.
Gentlemen,
Whatever favourable notice I may have taken of the
church of England, the grateful return you have made,
in this mark of your respect, is alone an ample reward,
and will be an additional inducement to me, in whatever
station I may be the remaining part of my life, sincerely
to wish your prosperity, and to contribute every thing in
my power to the advancement of the interest of religion
among you.
On Saturday last a number of gentlemen waited on
our late governor, Mr. Hutchinson, and presented to
him the following address:
To governor HUTCHINSON.
SIR,
We, merchants and traders of the town of Boston,
and others, do now wait on you, in the most respectful
manner, before your departure for England, to testify
for ourselves, the entire satisfaction we feel at your wise,
zealous, and faithful administration, during the few
years that you have presided at the head of this province.
Had your success been equal to your endeavours and to
the warmest wishes of your heart, we cannot doubt that
many of the evils under which we now suffer, would have
been averted, and that tranquility would have been re-
stored to this long divided province; but we assure our-
selves, that the want of success in those endeavours will
not abate your good wishes when removed from us, or
your earnest exertions still, on every occasion, to serve
the true interest of this your native country. While we
lament the loss of so good a governor, we are greatly re-
lieved that his majesty, in his gracious favour, hath ap-
pointed, as your successor, a gentleman who, having
distinguished himself in the long command he hath held
in another department, gives us the most favourable pre-
possession of his future administration. We greatly de-
plore the calamities that are impending and will soon fall
on this metropolis, by the operation of a late act of par-
liament for shutting up the port on the first of next
month: You cannot but be sensible, sir, of the number-
less evils that will ensue to the province in general, and
the miseries and distresses into which it will particularly
involve this town in the course of a few months. With-
out meaning to arraign the justice of the British parlia-
ment, we could humbly wish that this act had been
couched with less rigour, and that the execution of it
had been delayed to a more distant time, that the people
might have had the alternative, either to have complied
with the conditions therein set forth, or to have submit-
ed to the consequent evils, on refusal; but as it now
stands, all choice is precluded, and however disposed to
compliance or concession the people may be, they must
unavoidably suffer very great calamities before they can
receive relief. Making restitution for damage done to
for damage done to
the property of the East India company, or to the proper-
ty of any individual, by the outrage of the people, we ac-
knowledge to be just; and though we have ever disavow-
ed, and don now solemnly bear our testimony against such
lawless proceedings, yet considering ourselves as members
of the same community, we are fully disposed to bear
our proportions of those damages, whenever the sum
and the manner of laying it can be ascertained. We
earnestly request that you, sir, who know our condition,
and have at all times displayed the most benevolent dis-
position towards us, will, on your arrival in England,
interest yourself in our behalf, and make such favourable
representations of our case as that we may hope to obtain
speedy and effectual relief.----May you enjoy a plea-
sant passage to England; and under all the mortificati-
ons you have patiently endured, may you possess the
inward and consolatory testimonies of having discharged
your trust with fidelity and honour, and receive those
distinguishing marks of his majesty’s royal approbation
and favour, as may enable you to pass the remainder of
your life in quietness and ease, and preserve your name
with honour to posterity.----Signed by 125.
His excellency’s answer,
Gentlemen,
You may be assured that I have nothing so much at
heart as to contribute to the relief of my country in
general, and of the town of Boston in particular, from
the distresses which you have described so fully in your
address to me. Your persons and characters are so well
known to me that I am sure you wish to do what may
be necessary on your part, and your sentiments declared
in this open manner, together with your known dispo-
sition to promote peace and good order in the govern,
ment, will, I flatter myself, have a tendency to facilitate
the success of my endeavors. I entirely agree with you
in your just sentiments of his excellency the present go-
vernor, whose administration I hope you will strive to
make easy to himself as well as prosperous to the pro-
vince. I thank you for so warm, affectionate, and re-
spectful an address.
On Sunday last a number of gentlemen of the law
waited on our late governor with the following ad-
dress:
To his excellency governor Hutchinson.
SIR,
A firm persuasion of your inviolable attachment to theHis excellency’s answer.
Gentlemen,
The relation to the bar which I stood in for many
years together makes this mark of your affection and
esteem peculiarly acceptable. I feel the distress coming
upon the town of Boston. I am confident nothing will
be wanting on your part which may tend to promote the
free course of law, and that peace and good order in
government which seems to have been made the condi-
tions of obtaining relief from this distress. You may be
assured that nothing shall be wanting on my part which
may tend to procure this relief for you as speedily and
effectually as may be. You certainly may be happy un-
der the administration of his excellency the present go-
vernor, and I have great reason to join with you in a
testimony to his amiable disposition and character.
June 2. Yesterday captain Callahan sailed for London,
with whom went passengers his excellency governor
Hutchinson, Elisha Hutchinson, esquire, his second son,
and Miss Hutchinson, his excellency’s youngest daughter.
Yesterday arrived here from England several transports
with troops.
Thursday last arrived here his majesty’s ship Tarter,
captain Meadows, from Virginia.
On the 13th of May the towns of Hatfield, Whately,
and Williamsburg, met to make choice of a representative
to serve them in the general court for the year ensuing,
when Mr. John Dickinson was chosen by a majority of
votes. Then the towns proceeded to vote as an instructi-
on to their representative, that he would by no means
agree that the province pay for the tea destroyed by the
Bostonian Mohawks, or any part thereof, but use his ut-
most influence to the contrary.
Tell it in Gath publish it in Askaton, that the Boston
port bill, in all its parts, is now carrying into execution,
and that Boston is thereby put into greater distress, and
is more insulted by an English armament, than she ever
was by a French or Spanish fleet in the hottest war, when
left without one British ship for her protection. The
town is become a spectacle to angels and men God
grant that it may not be intimidated by the present hor-
ror, to make a surrender of the rights of America, or in
any respect to dishonour herself in this day of trial and
perplexity.
We hear that boats from Charlestown, Winnesimit,
and other ferries, are stopped, and not so much as a
brick to mend our chimnies is suffered to be brought us.
The regiment on board the transports arrived yester-
day, we are informed, is the 4th, or king’s own, which
is to encamp on Boston common. We are now told that
this, or other regiments are hourly expected. One is
to relieve that at Halifax.
Yesterday his excellency governor Gage, attended by
the secretary of the province and other gentlemen, set
out for Salem.
Thousands in this town, who cannot discern between
the right hand and the left, are by the Boston port bill
involved in the general calamity. May their cries enter
into the ear of that potentate who delighteth himself in
mercy.>/p>
Yesterday three transports with troops on board ar-
rived at Nantasket road from England.
Business was finished at the customhouse at 12 o’clock
yesterday noon, and this harbour is shut against all vessels
bound hither, and on the 15th instant none will be allow-
ed to depart hence.Be it ever remembered, to thy grief
and shame, O Britain!
His majesty’s ships, frigates, and schooners, are now
placed in such a manner in Boston harbour, as to prevent
any vessels going out, or coming in, agreeable to the act
of parliament for blocking up the said harbour, which
took place yesterday; so that we have reason to expect in
a little time the town of BOSTON will be truly in a
distressed and melancholy situation. God send us speedy
relief!
NEW YORK, June 9.
IT may be depended upon that Mr. William Jones, of
Bristol, intending this summer for Boston, engaged
a ship, and went down to the manufacturing towns to
engage a cargo for her to bring out with him; and on
his return homewards, he met with the Boston port bill,
which influenced him, at considerable expence, to con-
tradict all orders. These disappointments, with the many
countermands and letters declarative of the present dis-
position of the colonists in general, must throw the ma-
nufacturers into a worse consternation than any thing
of the kind that has ever yet happened; as all ranks and
degrees of men can now plainly perceive the designs of
administration.
We have the pleasure to assure our readers, that as
far as our intelligence has hitherto extended (since the
news of the Boston port bill) that is, from New Hampshire
to Williamsburg in Virginia, it appears, by all our let-
ters and advices, that all our colonies breathe the same
spirit, and seem actuated by one soul; and that it appears
to be the general sentiment, that the man is unworthy
the name of an English American who would hesitate
one moment to prefer death to this slavish subjection de-
manded by the ministry and parliament of Great Britain.
Extract of a letter from Boston, dated May 21, to sun
ry gentlemen in New York.
On the receipt of your letter by express on advice
of the late tyrannical acts of parliament, we of the com-
mittee speedily assembled and feasted on the welcome re-
past; a general joy spread through the whole city, who
had the most pleasing resentment of the noble and patri-
otic generosity of our worthy brethren in New York,
who even prevented our solicitations for assistance. We
are in the most assiduous and vigorous motion here, have
sent circular letters to every town and district in the pro-
vince, and though we have not had time to receive an-
swers from distant towns, we have this day received from
an inland town a full declaration of their resolution to
stand by us with their lives and fortunes; another topic
for Wedderburne to harangue upon! The British mer-
chants themselves have already begun to anticipate our
non-importation agreement, which will be confirmed by
a brig which sailed yesterday for London, with counter-
mands and letters enough, expressive of the general sense
of the colonies, as far as we have been able to collect it.
The friends of government (or rather despotism) here,
finding their patron Hutchinson in the deepest distress,
have been handing about an address to him, applauding
his virtue and public spirit, declaring his letters quite
harmless, and imploring his intercession with his majesty
on their behalf, at least that the port might be opened,
some of them having talked loudly of giving largely to
East India company’s tea; but this project drags heavily,
notwithstanding Mr. Hutchinson sent word to the town,
that in case they would pay only the first cost of the tea,
he would engage that every thing else should be made
easy. They absolutely tremble with a dread of the junc-
tion of the colonies, and a suspension of trade with Great
Britain, which, at this critical season, must bury the
authors of this complicated, treasonable conspiracy,
against the peace and security of the nation, in the ruins
of their own scheme. It is given out here, by some of
the crew, that your chamber of commerce have written
letters to Chambers, offering if he will be easy, and re-
turn, they will pay him for his tea, and provide him the
command of a good ship. But this report gains no cre-
dit here.”
Last Monday evening the committee of correspondence
met, when they read and answered the dispatches brought
by Mr. Cornelius Bradford from Boston. Next Monday
they will assemble again, after which, it is hoped, their
proceedings will be puplished, for the information of
their constituents; the times are critical, and big with
interesting events, which has occasioned the committee of
correspondence at Philadelphia to promulgate their let-
ter to Boston, and such other proceedings as were judged
necessary for the satisfaction of the public,
Extract of a letter from one of the members of the house
of assembly of New Jersey, and one of the committee of
correspondence which consists of nine members, dated June 2, 1774.
”I returned yesterday from New Brunswick, where
six of our committee met. We answered the Boston
letters, informing them that we look on New Jersey as
eventually in the same predicament with Boston, and
that we will do every thing which may be generally a-
greed on. We have signed a request to the governor to
call the general assembly, to meet at such times as his
excellency may think proper, before the first of August
next. Our committee is well disposed in the cause of
American freedom.”
Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, dated June 2.
Yesterday we had a pause in the business of this city,
and a solemn pause indeed it was; if we except the
Friends, I believe nine tenths of the citizens shut up
their houses. The bells were rang muffled all the day,
and the ships in the port had their colours half hoisted.”
Extract of another letter from Philadelphia, dated June 4.
”I pity our brethren in Boston, they are very severely
punished; but some of their friends here, and I fear with
you also, are too warm, and to serve them seem wil-
ling to draw us into the same dilemma; but surely this
is not the way to serve the general cause. We can be of
more use to our brethren when whole than when broken,
and I cannot let go my hopes that we may, by a joint
petition of our rights to the crown, prevent things from
going to extremities, and get Boston restored to the same
liberties with the other colonies; but some wish to push
all things into confusion. With them I can never join,
while any other expedient is left. Our letter to Boston
is a moderate one, yet warm and firm enough. You
have do doubt seen it, as a copy was sent to your com-
mittee, who are of our sentiments, and I hope will con-
tinue cool.”
We hear that Francis Masseres, esquire, late attorney
general of Quebec, and now one of the barons of the
exchequer, has wrote a pamphlet upon the necessity of a
representation of the American colonies in the parliament
of Great Britain, of which we may probably give some
account very soon.
A fort is already laid out, and to be immediately con-
structed, at Crown Point, in the room of the old one
lately burnt down.
Saturday last, being the anniversary of his majesty’s
birth day, when he entered the 37th year of his age,
at 12 o’clock his excellency general Haldimand, attended
by a number of gentlemen, walked to the common, where
they were received by a royal salute from the train of
artillery, and the royal Welch fusileers, then under
arms, after which his excellency returned to his residence,
where his majesty’s and other loyal healths were drank,
under the discharge of a royal salute from Fort George,
his majesty’s shop Swan, James Ayseough, esquire, com-
mander, and sundry other vessels in the harbour. The
Swan man of war made a beautiful appearance, adorned
with a fine variety of colours. In the evening some very
curious fireworks were exhibited, and the city was very
handsomely illuminated.
The committee of correspondence for the city of New-
York have ordered circular letters to be sent to the super-
visors of the several counties within this colony, re-
questing them to communicate the same to the several
inhabitants.
On the 17th of last month a very awful shock of an
earthquake was felt at Cape Nichola Mole
By accounts from St. Christopher’s, we learn that
admiral Parry, with is squadron, were at Crab Island,
which gave the governor of St. John De Porto Rico
such umbrage, that he would not supply the fleet from
his territories with any fresh provisions, although ao-
plied to.
We hear from Anguilla, that there has been a great
mortality in that island, which has carried off a number
of the inhabitants, among the rest his honour lieutenant
governor Roberts. That island ahs been remarkably
unhealthy since the two Spanish ships were stranded on
that coast.
When the principle people of Marblehead and Boston
received information that some of the mercenary inhabi-
tants had addressed governor Hutchinson, they hissed
them, and shewed every other mark of disapprobation.
PHILADELPHIA, June 9,
AS many people are desirous of knowing what steps
were taken by the inhabitants of this city, on the
late application made to them by their brethren of Boston
upon receiving the act of parliament for shutting up their
general concern to the liberties of all, the inhabitants of
the different counties of his province should be made ac-
quainted with the proceedings of the metropolis, that
they may approve or dissent from them, as they shall
see cause, you are therefore requested to publish the
following articles, viz.----At a meeting of between two
and three hundred of the respectable inhabitants of the
city of Philadelphia, at the city tavern, on Friday even-
night, May 20, 1774, agreed, that a committee be ap-
pointed to correspond with our sister colonies; that John
Dickinson, esquire, William Smith, D. D.* Edward
Pennington,* Joseph Fox, John Nixon,*John M. Nesbit,
Samuel Howell.* Thomas Mifflin,* Joseph Reade, Tho-
mas Wharton, junior,*Benjamin Marshall, Joseph
Moulder,* Thomas Barclay,* George Clymer,* Charles
Thomson,* Jeremiah Warder, junior,* John Cox,* John
Gibson,* and Thomas Penrose, compose the committee
of correspondence until an alteration is made by a more
general meeting of the inhabitants; that the committee
be instructed to write to the people of Boston, that we
truly feel for their unhappy situation, that we consider
them as suffering in the general cause, that we recom-
mend to them firmness, prudence, and moderation, and
that we shall continue to evince our firm adherence to
the cause of American liberty; that the above resolutions
be transmitted by the committee to the other colonies;
that the committee be instructed to apply to the governor
to call the assembly of the province; that they be autho-
rised to call a meeting of the inhabitants when necessary.
On the day following, those gentlemen of the committee,
whose names are marked thus*, having met, the follow-
ing letter was drawn up and signed by them, to be im-
mediately forwarded by Mr. Paul Revere to Boston;
copies of it have also been transmitted to New York, and
most of the southern colonies. The gentlemen of the
committee who did not attend at the first meeting were
prevented by necessary business, but the proceedings of
that meeting have been since fully approved by them.
A letter from the committee of the city of Philadelphia to
the committee of Boston, sent by Mr. Paul Revere, May
21, 1774.
Gentlemen,
”We have received your very interesting letter, toge-
ther with another from the town of Boston, and the vote
they have passed on the present alarming occasion; and
such measures have been pursued thereon as the shortness
of the time will allow. To collect the sense of this large
city is difficult, and when their sense is obtained, they
must not consider themselves as authorized to judge or
act for this populous province in a business so deeply in-
teresting as the present is to all British America. A very
respectable number of the inhabitants of this city was,
however, assembled last evening, in order to consult what
was proper to be done; and after reading the sundry
papers you transmitted to us, and also a letter from the
committee of correspondence at New York, the enclosed
resolves were passed, in which you may be assured we
are sincere and that you are considered as suffering in
the general cause. But what further advice to offer on
this sad occasion is a matter of the greatest difficulty,
which not only requires more mature deliberation, but
also that we should take the necessary measures to obtain
the general sentiments of our fellow inhabitants of this
province, as well as our sister colonies. If satisfying the
East India company for the damage they have sustained
would put an end to this unhappy controversy, and leave
us on the footing of constitutional liberty for the future,
it is presumed, that neither you nor we could continue a
a moment in doubt what part to act; for it is not the value
of the tea, but the indfeasible right of giving and grant-
ing our own money, a right from which we never can
recede, that is the matter now in consideration. By
what means the truly desirable circumstances of a recon-
ciliation and future harmony with our mother coun-
try on constitutional grounds may be obtained is indeed
a weighty question; whether by the method you have
suggested of a non-importation and non-exportation a-
greement, or by a general congress of deputies from the
different colonies, clearly to state what we conceive our
rights, and to make a claim or petition of them to his
majesty, in firm but decent and dutiful terms, so as that
we may know by what line to conduct ourselves in fu-
ture, are now the great points to be determined. The
latter we have reason to think would be most agreeable
to the people of this province, and the first step that
ought to be taken; the former may be reserved as our
last resource, should the other fail, which we trust will
not be the case, as many wise and good men in the
mother country begin to see the necessity of a good un-
derstanding with the colonies, upon the general plan of
liberty as well as commerce. We shall endeavour as soon
as possible to collect the sentiments of the people of this
province and the neighboring colonies on these grand
questions, and should also be glad to know your senti-
ments thereon. In the mean time, with sincere fellow
feelings of your sufferings, and great regard to your per-
sons, we are, gentlemen, yours, &c.”
The ACCOUNT between BRITAIN and her COLONIES
candidly stated.
AMERICA stands clearly indebted to Britain for her
original existence, for her happy constitution, for
the lenient and tender indulgence and support extended
to her in her infancy for the protection of her territories
and her commerce when invaded hostiley by an usurping
power, for establishing her limits on a solid and perma-
ment basis, immovable and incontrovertible, and for
extending her possessions at an enormous expence, for
undertaking a long, bloody, and expensive war, in sup-
port of her rights, and the future security of her proper-
ty and trade, for securing a foreign market for such of
her commodities as the British dominions cannot con-
sume, and for the annual expences of supporting a go-
vernment, and military establishments, in the provinces
and islands in America. On the other side of the account,
Great Britain is indebted to her colonies in America for
the consumption of her manufactures, for immense sums
arising from duties and excise on the commodities of
America, for the balance which the American production-
ons, exported to foreign countries, bring in favour of
Britain, for the consumption of India goods, which
leave a considerable revenue in duties, and great gains
behind, for the gains arising by the African trade, for
the nursery of able mariners that are raised by the vast
navigation carried on between Britain and America; but
above all for the influence and consideration which the
extensive and populous dominions of Britain in America
give her with other states, as a martial, powerful, and
commercial nation. Without the support of Britain,
America must become tributary to some other nation;
without America, Britain would cease to be an opulent,
powerful nation; their interests are inseparable and their
separation is incompatible with their natural ideas and
high notions of liberty and freedom, in the pure, unadul-
terated sense, in which antient, not modern, patriots
have conceived them. Thus circumstanced, Britain
should confirm to America her original privileges and
immunities without blemish; her powers of distinct le-
gislation and taxation, under the immediate control of
the crown and its governors; the trade and navigation
of America should be so limited as to make the same
mutually useful; America should look up to Britain for
defence and protection, and for the encouragement of
her trade, and good government of her police; America
must abandon her illicit trade with Holland and France,
and receive such necessaries of life and conveniency as her
industry and her fertile soil have not yet produced, from
Britain, Ireland, and her sister colonies; America must,
by her own special act, bear a proportional part of the
expenses of government; America and Britain must con-
clude that their interests and security are inseparable; and
they must look upon the promoters of seditious sentiments
to revive dissentions, and lead their affections astray from
each other, as enemies to both, and tools to foreign
powers.
The protest of part of the people of Annapolis against
the resolves lately entered into by that city.
To the PRINTERS.
Annapolis, May 30, 1774.
A PUBLICATION of the enclosed protest, support-
ed by a considerable number of the inhabitants of
the city of Annapolis, will, it is presumed, furnish the
most authentic grounds for determining the sense of the
majority on a question of the last importance.
We whose names are subscribed, inhabitants of the
city of Annapolis, conceive it our clear right, and most in-
cumbent duty, to express our cordial and explicit disap-
probation of a resolution, which was carried by 47 against
31 at the meeting held on the 27th instant. The resolu-
tion against which we protest in the face of the world is
the following: “That it is the opinion of this meet-
ing that the gentlemen of the law of this province bring
no suit for the recovery of any debt, due from any inha-
bitant of this province to any inhabitant of Great Britain
until the said act be repealed.” Dissentient, because we
are impressed with a full conviction that this resolution
is founded in teachery and rashness, inasmuch as it is
big with bankruptcy and ruin to those inhabitants of
Great Britain, who relying with unlimited security on
our good faith and integrity, have made us masters of
their fortunes; condemning them unheard for not having
interposed their influence with parliament in favour of
the town of Boston, without duly weighing the force
with which that influence would probably have operated,
or whether, in their conduct, they were actuated by wis-
dom and policy, or by corruption and avarice. Because
whilst the inhabitants of Great Britain are partially des-
poiled of every legal remedy to recover what is justly due
to them, nor provision is made to prevent us from being
harassed by the persecution of internal suits, but our
fortunes and persons are left at the mercy of domestic
creditors, without a possibility of extricating ourselves,
unless by a general convulsion; an event, in the con-
templation of sober reason, replete with horror. Because
our credit as a commercial people will expire under the
wound; for what confidence can possibly be reposed in
those who shall have exhibited the most avowed and most
stirking proof, that they are not to be bound by obligati-
ons as sacred as human invention can suggest?
ADVERTISEMENT.
To be SOLD cheap, for ready money
A FOUR WHEELED SULKEY,
for a single horse; also a horse for
the saddle or chaise, but would best suit a
lady’s riding. Enquire of the printer.
PHILADELPHIA NEWS CONTINUED.
June13. On Wednesday last the following petition
was presented:
To the honourable John Penn, esquire, governor and
commander in chief in and over the province of Penn-
sylvania, &c.
The petition of sundry inhabitants of the province of
Pennsylvania,
Humbly sheweth
That since the recess of the assembly of this province,
the proceedings of the British parliament towards Ame-
rica, and particularly an act lately passed against the
town of Boston, have filled the minds of your petitioners
and others, their fellow subjects, with deep anxiety and
concern; that your petitioners apprehend the design of
this act is to compel the Americans to acknowledge the
right of parliament to impose taxes upon them at plea-
sure; that the precedent of condemning a whole town
or city unheard, and involving all its inhabitants, of
every age and sex, and however different in political
sentiment or action, in one common ruin, gives universal
alarm. Deeply impressed with these sentiments, and at
the same time solicitous to preserve peace, order, and
tranquility, we do earnestly entreat the governor to call
the assembly of the province as soon as it can convenient-
ly be done, that they may have an opportunity not only
to devise measures to compose and relieve the anxieties of
the people, but to restore that harmony and peace be-
tween the mother country and the colonies, which has
been of late so much and so unhappily interrupted. And
your petitioners shall ever pray, &c.------Signed by
near nine hundred respectable freeholders, in and near
the city of Philadelphia.
To which his excellency was pleased to return the
following answer.
Gentlemen,
Upon all occasions, when the peace, order, and tran-
quility, of the province require it, I shall be ready to
convene the assembly; but as that does not appear to be
the case at present, I cannot think such a step would be
expedient or consistent with my duty.
Last Thursday evening about twelve hundred mecha-
nics of this city and suburbs assembled at the statehouse,
to hear a letter and other papers read, from the mecha-
nics of the city of New York, and to form such resoluti-
ons as should be judged proper for their future conduct
at this most alarming and critical time, when American
liberty is so deeply wounded, and her rights so unjustly
invaded, by levying taxes on us without our consent for
the purpose of raising a revenue, and for refusing pay-
ment of those illegal taxes, blocking up with divers ships
of war the port and town of Boston, thereby most un-
justly depriving that once flourishing town of its whole
trade, the inhabitants of their private property, and the
labouring poor of the means of subsisting themselves and
families. These proceedings of the parent state against
her American children call aloud upon all Americans to
assemble, consult, and determine firmly, to pursue such
measures for their own and neighbours future security as
shall be judged most likely to avert the present calamity,
and secure to them the perfect enjoyment of their liber-
ties and properties upon a fixed and lasting foundation;
for which purpose the mechanics of this city did propose,
and intend at this meeting to form, such resolutions, to
co-operate with the committee of merchants, and to
strengthen their hands, as will convince the world Ame-
ricans were born and determine to live free, and that
they never will be slaves; that liberty is their birthright;
they cannot, they will not give it up. But since the
sending out the hand bills for calling this great assem-
ly, information was received that the present committee
have sent expresses to all the southern colonies for their
advice on this alarming occasion, and returns to those
expresses are expected in a very few days. That the com-
mittee had determined to call a general meeting of all
the inhabitants in the city and county, to be held here
next Wednesday, the 15th instant, at 3 o’clock in the
afternoon, then to chuse one grand joint committee to
correspond with the committees of the neighbouring
provinces, and to adopt such measures, to be pursued
by all as their united wisdom shall direct: Wherefore
it is judged best at present to omit going into particular
resolutions, or appointing a particular committee to re-
present the mechanics, as the grand general meeting is
so near at hand.
As it was judged there would not be sufficient time to
give proper notice to the county, it was agreed, on Sa-
turday last, by the committee and a number of the most
respectable inhabitants called to advise on the present
occasion, that the general meeting be postponed to Sa-
turday next, at or near the statehouse, at three o’clock,
P. M. at which time and place the inhabitants of this
city and county, qualified to vote for representatives, are
desired to attend, in order to take into their considerati-
on on certain propositions prepared to be laid before them.
Extract of a letter from Pittsuburg, dated May 30.
”I arrived here last Wednesday with Messieurs Dun-
can and Wilson, guarded by a party of Delawares, who
treated us with a great deal of kindness, and gave us
great reason to think they mean nothing but peace and
friendship from all their actions. The Shawanese have
raised 20 warriors to strike the Virginians, who were to
set off last Monday. I fear all the traders are killed at
the Shawanese towns, as there was a party of Mingoes
gathered for that purpose. I am of opinion it will be a
general Indian war, though colonel Croghan thinks the
matter will be settled in a short time.
Extract of a letter from Bedford, dated May 30.
”I suppose you have heard of the Indians being killed
at Whaling; since that time Indian White Eyes, Mr.
Duncan, and Mr. Saunderson, who were sent down the
river from Fort Pitt, in order to accommodate matters
with the Shawanese, are returned, but had hard work
to get back. The Delawares who at present seem to be
friends, had enough to do to save their lives, and as to
the poor traders down among the Shawanese, no person
can tell whether they are dead or alive. White Eyes, on
his return to Fort Pitt, said the Shawanese were for war,
and that 40 odd of them are at present out, intending a
stroke, as is supposed, at some part of Virginia. The
Delawares say they will not go to war; but there is no
dependence on them; we expect every day to hear of their
striking in some quarter. It is lamentable to see the mul-
titudes of poor people that are hourly running down the
country; such of them as stay are building forts. God
knows how it will turn out with them. We intend, as
soon as we hear of any damage being done, to erect for-
tifications here. The Shawanese themselves day that
they have nothing against Pennsylvania, but only Virgi-
nia; ‘though we may depend as soon as they strike Vir-
ginia, they will also fall on us.”
WILLIAMSBURG, June 23.
An address of thanks to the reverend Mr. William
McKay, rector of Northampton parish, in the county of
Richmond.
REVEREND SIR,
WE his majesty’s most dutiful and loyal subjects, the
inhabitants of Northampton parish, deeply im-
pressed with the highest sentiments of gratitude, humbly
beg leave thus publicly to return you our sincere and
unfeigned acknowledgements, for the truly spirited and
patriotic sermon you was pleased this day to deliver
from your pulpit.
The Neptune, Punderson, is arrived in York river.
We have likely received several pieces and would
most willingly oblige their different authors; but the
very great length of some of them will, we hope, apolo-
gize for our not giving them a speedy publication.
WILLIAMSBURG, June 20, 1774.
LOST, a WARRANT, under the hand and seal of
his excellency the earl of Dunmore, granted to
Edward Wilkinson, and by him assigned to me, for 200
acres of land in Augusta, on the western waters, directed
to the surveyor of that county. Any person that will
deliver the same to Mr. James Southall, of this city, or
to me, in Berkeley county, shall have 20s. The public
are hereby warned against taking a conveyance of the
said warrant; and the several surveyors are requested to
observe this advertisement. 2+ R. RUTHERFORD.
To be SOLD, at public auction, at Westmoreland court-
house, on Tuesday the 27th day of September, being
Westmoreland court day,
TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born SLAVES.
Credit will be allowed until the 10th of November
following, on giving bond and good security. The
bonds to bear interest from the date, if not punctually
discharged. tdf RICHARD PARKER.
To be SOLD, by execution, for ready money, at
Ayett’s warehouse, on Wednesday the 13th of July,
TWENTY seven likely VIRGINIA born NEGROES,
consisting of men, women, boys, and girls, the
estate of col. James Quarles, deceased, to satisfy three
judgments, obtained in York court by the executors of
Philip W. Claiborne, deceased.
2 GOODRICH CRUMP, S. Sheriff.
ON Friday the 15th of August next will be SOLD,
at Chesterfield courthouse, to the highest bidder,
for ready money, by virtue of a deed of trust, from
Thomas Branch, deceased, to John Pankey, Bernard
Markham, and Robert Goode, a tract of LAND, in
Chesterfield county, about nine miles from Manchester
town, containing 150 acres. 3 JOHN PANKEY.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND in Gloucester county,
Petsworth parish, containing 1170 acres, lying
upon Poropotank river, and convenient to fish and
Oysters. The plantation is in good order for cropping
has a valuable dwelling house upon it, all necessary out-
houses, barns, orchards, &c. and a mill upon an excel-
lent stream of water. Also 2675 3/4 of land in the same
county and parish, which will be sold in lots to suit pur-
chasers. Application is to be made to the next general
assembly for an act to dock the intail of the above lands.
They will be shewn by Mr. Lewis Booker, of whom the
terms may be known.
TO BE SOLD,
A TRACT of LAND, containing 1600 acres,
in the county of Dunmore, on both sides the
North river Shanandoah, and in the forks of Smith’s
creek and the said river; about 400 acres are low grounds,
part of which cost the subscriber 3l. per acre; the rest is
level, and well calculated for farming. There is on the
premises a dwelling house, 38 by 32 feet, 5 rooms on
the lower floor, and 4 fire places, 3 rooms above, with
a good cellar, a storehouse, smith’s shop, kitchen, quarter,
a large barn, stables, and all other outhouses, with about
20 acres of good timothy meadow now in grass, and 100
acres more may be made. One half of the purchase
money will be expected when a title is made, and exten-
sive credit for the remainder.
3+ B. HARRISON.
AS I purpose giving up the charge of the store now
under my management at Petersburg, on account
of Mess. William Cuningham and company, of Glasgow,
to Mr. Alexander Hanburgh, on the 1st of September
next, I beg the favour of all those who have had dealings
with me on account of the above mentioned company,
to settle their accounts before that time, and grant bond,
or some other specialty, that no dispute may arise there-
after. The store will be supplied with goods, and carried
on to the same extent as usual, by Mr. Hanburgh.
3 THOMAS GORDON.
THE different creditors of the late Mr. Augustine
Smith, of Middlesex, deceased, by forthwith
sending states of their several accounts, either to J.
Ambler, esquire, in York, or to col. William Churchill,
in Middlesex, will much oblige their humble servant,
2 JOHN SMITH.
THE clearing the Seven Island falls, in James river,
will be let to the lowest bidder, on the 3d Thurs-
day in August next, at which time any person inclinable
to undertake the same may depend on meeting a sufficient
number of trustees at the place, who will pay down one
half of the money, upon the undertaker’s giving bond
and security for the performance of the same.
LANDED from Liverpool, four BALES, marked C I.
The owner may have them on paying the charges
to ISSAC YOUNGHUSBAND, who has for sale a parcel of
low priced Irish LINENS.
A SOBER, diligent young man, who can write a
tolerable good hand, would willingly engage with
any merchant as a clerk. Any one wanting such a per-
son may hear of him by applying to the printer hereof.
STRAYED, or stolen, from Mr. Edward Walker’s, in
Dinwiddie, on the 20th of April last, a small bay
horse, with a hanging mane and switch tail, shod before,
trots and gallops, and is branded on the near buttock S,
or a figure of 8; the under part of his mane, on the off
side, is cut, by reason of its thickness, on the near side
is a kind of a feather, beginning about half the root of
the mane, and continues to the ear; he is 6 or 7 years
old. Whoever conveys him to the said Mr. Walker
shall receive 5 dollars reward, and if to me, in Williams-
burg, ten dollars. 3 JOSEPH CRAWLEY.
We received THREE SHILLINGS with the following
advertisement, which is the principal reason for our insert-
ing it. In order that it may not lose any of its merit, the
reader has it verbatim.
TUMBLING TOM
NOW Rising 8 years 13 hands and 1 Inch High
Stands This Season at Calloden & will Cover mares
at 5s. the leap and 3s. 9d. the Season his Coular nor pe-
digree ant Worth mentioning I will not be accountable
for any Mares that Shall be Lost for I have no pasteridge
(Some Gentlemens Cureosety may lead them So fare as
to be desirous of knowing What his Name derive from
Which may be done in a few Words that is when Rod
he often Tips all nice a& follows the bole.+ H. L{illegible; smudged) e
TO BE SOLD,
THE noted and well accustomed TAVERN, at pre-
sent occupied by the subscriber lying in James
City county, about 15 miles from Williamsburg, on the
main road leading to New Kent courthouse and Ruffin’s
ferry, with 500 acres of land in good order for cropping,
and 6 fields under good fence. The terms of payment
will be made easy by the subscriber.
THOMAS DONCASTLE.
For LIVERPOOL,
THE ship Greenwood, Mackey Reed, master. loads
at Norfolk, has two thirds of her cargo already
engaged, can take 200 hogsheads of tobacco, on liberty
of consignment. Any gentleman inclined to ship by her
will please to send their orders either to Mr. Richard
Taylor, of Petersburg, Mr. Richard Squire Taylor, in
King William, or to us, at Norfolk.
GREENWOOD, RITSON, & MARSH.
THE debtors to Messieurs Perkins, Buchanan, and
Brown, late of London, merchants, having paid
no regard to a former advertisement I think it expedi-
ent to call on them in this manner once more to request
payment of their debts to me, as attorney of the assignees
under the commission of bankrupt. I am advised, that
under this commission, which issued the 5th of August,
1773, every interest Mess. Perkins and company then had
become vested in the assignees of their effects; that the
assignments to Mess. Barlow and company, and Mess.
Holland and company, of January and April 1773, be-
ing executed by Perkins and Brown alone, were for that
reason (without offering any other) incompleat and su-
perseded by the assignment, under the commission afore-
said; and that payments and engagements to pay to Mess.
Barlow and company, and Mess. Holland and company,
under colour of their respective assignments, are abso-
lutely void, and that the assignees under the commission
have yet a right at law to recover all the debts due to
Mess. Perkins ad company. But to remove all object-
ons, I will indemnify every person for what I shall re-
receive of them for debts contracted with Mess. Perkins,
Buchanan, and Brown. CHARLES YATES.
To be SOLD, and entered on the 1st of September next,
THE only TAVERN in the town of Manchester,
at the falls of James river, with every convenience
for a public house; several of the out houses are newly
finished. Besides the houses used for the tavern, there
is a good new house, well finished, with a room below,
and 2 above, where the family may live quite retired,
and a large garden newly paled in, with 5 or 6 acres of
land, which runs above 300 feet on the main street in a
valuable part of the town, and capable of improvements.
At this tavern are constantly boarded 20 gentlemen at 25l.
each per ann. Besides servants. Long credit will be given
for part of the purchase money, giving bond, with ap-
proved security. 3* BETTY TODD, junior,
To be sold, to the highest bidder, on the 1st day of Sep-
tember next, if fair, if not, the next fair day, and
entered upon at Christmas.
A PLEASANT seat upon Potowmack river, late the
property of Richard Foote, deceased. It lies in
the lower parish of Stafford county, contains 200 acres
of high level ground, and the same quantity of fine firm
marsh, has a convenient dwellinghouse of four rooms on
a floor, many necessary outhouses, and a good peach and
apple orchard, thereon. For fish and wild fowl, few
places, within many miles, are equal to it. The sale
will be on the premises, and twelve months credit will be
allowed, on giving bond, with approved security; the
bond to carry interest from the date, if not punctually
discharged. Five per cent. discount will be allowed for
ready money, and an indisputable title will be made by
William Stuart,
Richard Foote,,
George Foote,
WANTED, as a clerk for the church of Richmond
town, a sober man, of a good character, that reads
and sings well, and understands teaching psalmody; he will
meet with great encouragement, besides what is allowed
by the vestry. For further particulars apply to the church-
wardens, or Samuel Du Val, near Richmond. 2+
I FIND it necessary to give this public notice, that
Jasper Mauduit Gidley was dismissed from being my
collector in September last, and that no receipts given
by the said Gidley for money on my account, since that
time, will be allowed by me; and I request the favour of
the gentlemen of the law, in the different counties, to
retain in their own hands any bonds or accounts of mine
delivered them by the said Gidley, either before or after
September last, and be kind enough to let me know, by
a line what steps they have taken on such bonds and
accounts. THOMSAS MASON.
THE subscriber begs leave to inform the public that
as soon as the courts proceed on their docket, he
proposed to practice as an attorney in the county courts
of York and James City, and in the court of Hustings at
Williamsburg, and to continue his practice in New Kent
and Charles City courts; and as his whole time and atten-
tion will be employed in this business, he thinks he can
safely promise the utmost diligence and punctuality in it.
He proposes to attend at his lodgings, at Mrs. Rind’s;
in Williamsburg, the day before the courts of York,
James City, and the Hustings, and in all public times,
to receive the commands of those that will employ him.
At other times, his clients letters left there will be for-
warded to him in New Kent by a careful hand, who
will receive and pay such money at Williamsburg as the
conveniency of his clients requires. Titles will be exa,
mined, and conveyances drawn, with care and dispatch,
by 4* B. DANDRIDGE.
PURSUSNT to a decree of the worshipful court of
Amherst, will be exposed to sale, at the courthouse
of the said county, on Monday the 4th of July next, be-
ing court day, to the highest bidder, for ready money, a
valuable tract of land in the said county, whereon Joseph
Magann now lives, situate on the main Carolina road,
about 10 miles from Lynch’s ferry, whereon is a good
plantation, with orchards, and all convenient and valu-
able houses, well calculated for carrying on the business
of ordinary keeping to advantage, also two valuable
slaves, of the estate of the said Magann, to satisfy a
judgement lately obtained by Daniel Gaines, gentleman,
against the said Joseph Magann, in the said county court
of Amherst. 3* GABRIEL PENN.
NORFOLK, June 13, 1774.
THE subscribers have for SALE MADEIRA WINE,
BARBADOS RUM, CANE, SPIRIT, and
MOSCOVADO SUGAR.
PHRIPP and BOWDOIN.
THE VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
THURSDAY, JUNE 30, 1774. NUMBER 425
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3s. the first Week,
and 2s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.----PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
The BRITISH AMERICAN.
NUMBER V.
FRIENDS, FELLOW CITIZENS, and COUNTRYMEN,
It is not my intention to inflame your minds, by pointing out the
many privileges you have already lost, but to rouze you to a steady
opposition to the measures now pursuing to deprive you of what
few still remain. I shall therefore, instead of entering minutely
into every branch of the old English constitution, whose sole
sole object is, or rather was, political liberty, confine myself to that
part of it which relates to legislation and taxation only. But in order
to be thoroughly understood, it will be necessary to premise, that in
ancient times, besides the palaces for the residence, there were particular
funds and lands set apart, whose yearly profits supplied the domestic
expences, and supported the splendor, of the kings of England. These
were called the ancient demesnes of the crown, and were not only
abundantly sufficient to answer those purposes, but sometimes enabled
our monarchs to repel, at their own private expence, any sudden or
unforeseen hostile attacks upon the kingdom. Thus the great queen
Elizabeth (under whose reign our ancestors first emigrated) instead of
asking supplies of her parliament, generally demanded reimbursements
only for what she had actually advanced for the general good. And even
these she often graciously remitted to her subjects.
The legislature of England consisted of three distinct branches. The
first was the monarch, whose ample hereditary revenues enabling him to
support the dignity of his rank, removed all temptation to oppress either
of the other two; because nobly provided for himself, he was under no
necessity of asking any supplies from his parliament, but such as were
necessary for the general good of the community. Independent of
any power upon earth, for the support of himself and family, he was
equally above the temptation of being corrupted himself, or of endeavour-
ing to corrupt the parliament. The second consisted of the house of
lords, a body of men, who on account of their great wealth or merit,
and generally both, were ennobled by the monarch; and as their titles
and power, when once created, were hereditary, they were not only
independent, but were equally interested, in preserving the legal prero-
gatives of the crown, and the just privileges of the people. The
prerogatives of the crown, because as they derived their very existence
from the monarch, if his legal power was annihilated, theirs must
necessarily be extinguished with it; as the stream will cease to flow
when the fountain from whence it sprung is dried up. As hereditary
guardians of the realm, it was equally their interest to preserve the
privileges of the people, because however distinguished by rank or title,
they themselves, as part of the community, must finally feel any
oppression exercised by the sovereign over their fellow subjects.
The third branch of the legislature consisted of the people at large,
in which every native had a right to vote; for in those days it was
thought unreasonable that the life, liberty, or property, of a free man,
should be affected by any law which he did not consent to, or at least
which he had not a right to oppose.
But these tumultuous assemblies of the people being found from
experience not only inconvenient but absolutely impracticable, as a ma-
jority of the whole kingdom could never meet at any one place to
deliberate upon the affairs of the kingdom, it became customary for the
inhabitants of different counties, and large cities and towns, to delegate
the wisest of their neighbours to represent them in the legislature, and
to speak the sentiments of their electors, on the general concerns of the
kingdom: These formed the house of commons. In process of time,
this right of delegation was confined to those who had a freehold in
lands, of a particular value, because, as I have observed in a former
letter, the owners of the soil were not only supposed to be the best
judges of what was for the benefit of the kingdom, but because they
were less liable to be corrupted, to prejudice a country in which they
themselves were permanently interested.
Happy had it been for England that this wise regulation had never
been altered; and happier still, if the right of voting for representatives
had been confined to the freeholders of counties only, and not extended to
cities and corporations, which, however populous and opulent formerly,
are now scarce the shadows of what they were. But to return to my
subject.
In the monarch was vested the power of convening the other two bodies
of the legislature, of laying before them the state of the kingdom, with
respect to foreign alliances, and of recommending to their consideration
any plans which he judged for the benefit of the nation; and after having
done this, he retired and left them to deliberate and to form what reso-
lutions they pleased, either upon the plans thus recommended, or upon
any others which they thought proper, and so far as related to legislation
only, the lords and commons had an equal right of proposing, and of
altering or amending, resolutions proposed by each other. The king had
no power of altering or amending, but, by with-holding his assent,
might reject any resolution of the other two branches altogether.
To have invested him with a power of altering would have been dan-
gerous to liberty; because of all laws respecting the subject, the lords,
who were the representatives of the higher, and the commons, who
represented the lower ranks of the people, were the properest judges;
because they would share in the advantages and disadvantages of those
laws. But as the king might receive the emoluments, but could not
share in the inconveniencies, if he had been allowed to have interfered
in altering or amending such, the nation might have been cruelly
oppressed; for as all honours flowed from the crown, a desire of acquiring
those honours might have induced the commons. Hope of enlarging
those already conferred might have influenced the lords to have shewn
such complaisance to the alterations of the crown as would have been
inconsistent with the good of the community. Wisdom, as well as<
delicacy, therefore, excluded the temptation. The king’s right or re-
jecting altogether was a sufficient barrier against all encroachments on
the rights of the sovereign, since no resolutions had the force of laws
till they received the concurrence of a majority of the lords and commons,
and were approved of and assented to by the king.
Taxation was fixed upon a very different foundation. The house of
commons claimed and excercised the sole right of proposing taxes, of
pointing out the ways and means, of levying supplies, and of framing
the bills, but the authority of which they were to be collected, and so
extremely jealous were they of this privilege, that they never would suffer
either of the other branches of the legislature to make the smallest
alteration, either in the form or substance of a supply bill.
This exclusive privilege was founded upon very just grounds. The
reasons I have already given, in treating of legislation. are doubly cogent
to restrain the king (who was to apply, or rather expend, the money
raised) from exercising any other power over a money bill than that of
rejecting; to which may be added another, that the representatives of a
people must ever be more capable than their prince of judging of the
abilities of their constituents, and of knowing how much, and what
species of their property, they can spare to preserve the remainder. Nor
are there wanting many and just reasons to exclude the lords from inter-
fering with this right exercised by the commons. In the first place, the
whole wealth of a nation arises from the farmer, the grazier, the me-
chanic, and the trader; and as they are the very creators of money they
alone ought to have the public disposition of it, because they know its
value, and have experienced the difficulty with which it is acquired. On
the other hand, the lords possessed of immense wealth, transmitted to
them by their ancestors, and born (if I may be allowed the expression)
with silver spoons in their mouths, might be lavish of the national
From this state of the English constitution, it is obvious to the most
common observer, that if any one of its branches encroached upon the
rights of another, it became the interest of the other two to unite in
repelling the aggressor, since if either branches were annihilated, or even
weakened, the other must necessarily fall a prey to the victor. If the
commons attacked the lords, the crown necessarily interposed its autho-
rity to support the injured rights of the nobility; for if they succeeded
in destroying the rights of the nobility, such an acquisition of power, as
would then devolve on them, would soon enable them to weaken, if not
destroy the prerogatives of the crown. If the lords encroached upon
the privileges of the commons, our history afforded too many instances
of the dreadful consequences of the overgrown power of the barons to
suffer the king to be an idle spectator whilst his nobles, by crushing the
commons, would arrogate to themselves the power of petty princes, and
endanger the safety of the kingdom with internal commotions. If the
king attacked the privileges of either of the other branches, or either of
the others encroached upon the prerogatives of the crown, the third
branch was too much interested in the dispute to stand neuter, but
readily assisted the injured party, sensible that the only method of pre
serving the true equilibrium of government was to further neither branch
to oppress or even weaken the other.
Thus constituted, thus mutually interested, to support each other, the
king, lords, and commons, of England, formed the wisest system of
legislation that ever did, or perhaps ever will, exist; for the three fa-
vourite forms of government, viz. monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy,
possessed of their distinct powers, checked, tempered, and improved,
each other. Nor was this excellence confined to forms alone. The
characteristic principles of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy, viz.
honour, moderation, and virtue, were here so happily blended, as totally
to exclude fear, that despicable slave of despotism and arbitrary sway.
The honour of monarchy tempered the impetuosity of democracy, the
moderation of aristocracy checked the ardent aspiring honour of mo-
narchy, and the virtue of democracy restrained the one, impelled the
other, and invigorated both. In short, no constitution ever bid so fair
for perpetual duration as that of England, and none ever half so well
deserved it, since political liberty was its aim, and the general good
of mankind the principal object of its attention. Had this happy state
but recurred a little oftener to its first principles, it would have remained
the envy, the admiration, of the whole world, and the delight of its
most distant dominions, till time shall be no more. But, alas! all
human institutions are subject to decay; the very vitals of this amiable
constitution are wounded, the glorious fabric already totters, and the
time is approaching when it may be said of this beautiful Byzantium:
That down the precipice of fate she goes,
And sinks in moments what in ages rose.
To trace the steps of this disorder, and point out what is likely to occa-
sion this ever to be lamented misfortune, shall be the subject of my next.
I shall conclude this with a word of advice to my fellow citizens of
Virginia: Since my last, the writs have issued for chusing your repre-
sentatives, returnable the 11th day of August next. Postpone your
meeting in Williamsburg till that day; so short a delay will be attended
with little inconvenience. If the governor should then meet you in
assembly, you will have a constitutional opportunity of declaring the
sentiments, and of vindicating the rights, of those you represent. But
be not deceived. It is to be feared, that the governor will not, cannot,
call the assembly together, till he receives letters from the minister in
England and that it will be prorogued before the 11th of August. If
it should, still let the new representatives of the people meet at that
time; though they cannot as a legislative, yet they may as a collective
body, declare the sentiments of their constituents, and it is necessary,
not only that our sovereign but that the British parliament should know
those sentiments as soon as possible; otherwise an artful minister may
impose upon them, and induce them to believe you have actually sub-
mitted to a measure which I am convinced you never will submit to,
because you ought not. I am, my countrymen,
A BRITISH AMERICAN.
*I have read other arguments against the house of lords exercising a
right of altering money bills, but I confess they were not to me so
convincing as the above. For instance, one was, that the wealth of the
lords, compared so that of the commons of England, was but as a drop
of water to the ocean. Suppose this to be true (thought by the bye, it
is a very large drop, and which, by their intermarriages with the rich
heiresses of the commons, is constantly encreasing) yet a single drop,
when incorporated with, becomes as much a part of the ocean, and is as
much interested in the general welfare of that ocean, as any other drop,
and by the same purity of reasoning, the whole ocean might, drop by
drop, be excluded, till it ceased to be even a rivulet. I am induced to
make this remark, from having read a similar argument in a late
pamphlet of a reverend author, who after observing that each member
of the house of commons, when chosen, becomes the representative of
the whole kingdom, he has the following note: “Surely the nation
might have expelled Mr. Wilkes, or have struck his name out of the
list of the committee, had it been assembled, or had it thought proper
so to do. What then should hinder the deputies of the nation from
doing the same thing? And which ought to prevail in this case, the
nation in general or the county of Middlesex?” Let it be observed, that
if the whole body of the people had been assembled upon the national
councils, no such committee could have existed; the case supposed is
therefore a non-entity. But admitting it otherwise, even a committee
of the house of commons cannot exclude any member of that committee,
but must apply to the house who constituted them a committee to make
such exclusion; that the house of commons have a right, by expelling
any member, to appeal to the people who sent him, whether such member
is unworthy to represent them. There can be no doubt, but if after
such an appeal the people re-elect him, they are surely bound to receive
him. In such an assembly as the reverend author speaks of there can be no
doubt but a majority of the whole kingdom may exclude the inhabitants
of the county of Middlesex from any share in the national councils, but
from that instant they cannot exercise a constitutional right, either of
legislation or taxation, over the county of Middlesex; and just so great a
power as a majority of the nation can exercise over the inhabitants of a
single county, a majority of representatives of the nation, may exercise
over the representatives of a single county. But the consequence must be
the same in both cases.
THE following is a true copy of the petition presented to the
house of commons, and signed by most of the gentlemen of
NORTH AMERICA, who are now in London, just before the Boston
port bill took place.
To the honourable the COMMONS of GREAT BRITAIN in
PARLIAMENT assembled.
THE HUMBLE PETITION of SEVERAL NATIVES AND
INHABITANTS of NORTH AMERICA,
SHEWETH,
”That your petitioners, being natives of his majesty’s dominions in
America, are deeply interested in every proceeding of this honourable
house, which touches the life, liberties, or property, of any person or
persons in the said dominions. That your petitioners conceive themselves
and their fellow subjects entitled to the rights of natural justice, and
to the common law of England, as their unalienable birthright; that
they apprehend it to be an inviolable rule of natural justice, that no
man shall be condemned unheard, and that according to law no person or
persons can be judged without being called upon to answer, and being
permitted to hear, the evidence against them, and to make their defence.
That it is therefore with the deepest sorrow they understand that this
honourable house is now about to pass a bill to punish, with unexampled
rigour, the town of Boston, for a trespass committed by some persons
unknown, upon the property of the East India company, without the said
town’s being apprized of any accusation brought against them, or having
been permitted to hear the evidence, or to make their defence. Your
petitioners conceive such proceedings to be directly repugnant to every
principle of law and justice, and that under such a precedent no man, or
body of men, in America, could enjoy a moment’s security; for if
judgement be immediately to follow an accusation against the people of
America, supported even by persons notoriously at enmity with them,
the accused, unacquainted with the charge, and from the nature of their
situation, utterly incapable of answering and defending themselves, every
sence against false accusation will be pulled down, justice will no longer
be their shield, nor innocence an exemption from punishment. Your pe-
titioners beg leave to represent, that law, in America, ministers redress
for any injury sustained there, and they can most truly affirm, that it is
executed in that country with as much impartiality as in any other
part of his majesty’s dominions. In proof of this, they appeal to an
instance of great notoriety, in which, under every circumstance that
could exasperate the people, and disturb the course of justice, captain
Preston and his soldiers had a fair trial, and a favourable verdict. While
the due course of law holds out redress for any injury sustained in America,
they apprehend the interposition of parliamentary power to be full of
danger, and without any precedent. If the persons who committed this
trespass are known, then the East India company have their remedy
against them at law; if they are unknown, your petitioners cannot
comprehend by what rule of justice the town can be punished for a civil
injury committed by persons not known to belong to them. Your pe-
titioners conceive that there is not an instance, even in the most arbi-
trary times, in which a city was punished by parliamentary authority
without being heard for a civil offence, not committed within their
jurisdiction, and without redress having been sought at common low.
The cases which they have heard adduced are directly against it. That
of the king against the city of London was for a murder committed within
its walls by its citizens in open day. But even then, arbitrary as the
times were, the trial was public in a court of common law, the party
heard, and the law laid down by the judges was, that it was an offence
at the common law to suffer such a crime to be committed in a walled
town, tempore diruno, and none of the offenders to be known, or indicted.
The case of Edinburgh, in which parliament did interpose, was the
commission of an atrocious murder within her gates, and aggravated
by an overt act of high treason, in executing, against the express will
of the crown, the king’s laws. It is observable, that these cities had
by charter the whole executive power within themselves, so that a
failure of justice necessarily ensued from their connivance. In both cases,
however, full time was allowed them to discharge their duty and they
were heard in their defence. But neither has time been allowed in this
case, nor is the accused heard, nor is Boston a walled town, nor was the
fact committed within it, nor is the executive power in their hands as
it is in those of London and Edinburgh; on the contrary, the governor
himself holds that power, and has been advised by his majesty’s council
to carry it into execution. If it has been neglected, he alone is answerable;
if it has been executed, perhaps at this instant, while punishment is in-
flicting here on those who have not been legally tried, the due course
of law is operating there to the discovery and prosecution of the real
offenders. Your petitioners think themselves bound to declare to this
honourable that they apprehend a proceeding of excessive rigour
and injustice will sink deep in the minds of their countrymen, and
tend to alienate their affections from this country. That the attach-
ment of America cannot survive the justice of Great Britain. That if
they see a different mode of trial established for them, and for the people
of this country, a mode which violates the sacred principles of natural
justice, it may be productive of national distrust, and extinguish those
filial feelings of respect and affection which have hitherto attached
them to the parent state. Urged, therefore, by every motive of affection
to both countries; by the most earnest desire, not only to preserve their
own rights, and those of their countrymen, but to prevent the dissoluti-
on of that love, harmony and confidence, between the two countries,
which was their mutual blessing and support, your petitioners do most
earnestly beseech this honourable house not to pass the said bill.”
WHAT Mrs. RIND, must astonished AMERICA think,
what dreadful abuses must not its inhabitants feel, should an act
of parliament be passed, “that as no officer in the service or the crown in
America shall be liable to any action or prosecution whatever there, but
to be amenable only to the courts of judicature in England?” Yet, a cor-
respondent says, “you may depend it has been agitated in the cabinet,
and it is determined to be carried into execution by an act of parliament!”
Quere, should such an act pass, removing crown officers from every restraint
of the society where they live, will it not be absolutely necessary that the
people among whom such officers reside consider themselves as in a state
of nature with respect to them, and execute speedy justice on every
transgression?
Mrs. RIND,
BEING present at the patriotic meeting in WESTMORELAND, I
was much pleased to see the order and decorum with which their
business was conducted, and to find that they had desired their proceed-
ings to be published, because it seems quite proper that the generous
struggles of each for the common liberty may be known to all. From
hence most probably may result a system of defence, which no cunning
of a tyrant minister can overcome. The method of conquering by di-
viding has been so long known and practiced by every wicked politician,
from the greatest in Europe down to the small ones of our own nation,
the lords Bute, Mansfield, and their agent North, that the world must
be too well apprized of this system to be missed and deceived by so stale a
practice.
The minister gave himself unnecessary trouble when he declared the
plan was to compel submission to the American taxation by subduing one
colony at a time; the conduct of the ministry very sufficiently proves this.
All North America have repeatedly, but in vain, protested against this
invasion of their rights, protected as they are by natural justice, by
positive compact, and by immemorial usage; sanctions that have hitherto
been respected by good men in all ages. In pursuit of this plan of op-
position, founded on principles of self-preservation, many colonies have
with the tea ships repelled the revenue acts; but Boston, having been
with much pains and singular care designedly forced by its enemies to
go once small step farther than the rest, in order to furnish a pretext for
attacking one colony at a time, they not only destroy the trade of Boston,
and thereby ruin a great number of innocent people, but put it on the
power of the crown forever to deprive many persons in that town of the
most valuable property they possessed in wharfs and quays for landing and
shipping goods. But this was not enough. The long possessed charter
of Massachusetts Bay is by another act to be taken away, and their go-
vernor made more despotic than a Turkish bashaw. Nor has this been
thought sufficient to quench every spark of liberty there, but a third
act placed every crown officer above the reach of law in the country
where he lives, declaring him amendable only to the courts of justice in
England, at the same time that every person in the Massachusetts go-
vernment, who happens to be obnoxious to the ministry, that is, every
honest and intelligent friend to his country, is made liable to be tran-
sported to the King’s Bench in England for trial; a court that has for
some years past, it is said, been extremely unfavourable to Englishmen
and English law, and where, unhappily, for the prisoner, the prosecution
must be altogether persecution, there being no prospect of evidence but
on one side, and the chance of the accused for escaping, however inno-
cent, as small, as the act itself is certainly void of every particle of reason
and justice. Is it not in violation of truth and common sense to call
this act, which shakes the foundations of justice and that security which
is reasonably expected from civil society, “An act for the impartial
administration of justice in the cases of persons questioned for any acts
done by them in the execution of the law, or for the suppression of riots
and tumults in the province of Massachusetts Bay, in New England?
Would it not be much more properly entitled An act to encourage every
species of crime, by placing the perpetrators beyond the reach of just punish-
ment, and to prevent every good man in the Massachusetts government from
opposing the ruin of his country, by the terrors of a mock trial before a par-
tial tribunal, three thousand miles removed from the residence of the accused?
It is surely impossible that any liberal mind can fail to flow with
resentment at these Tarquin strides to despotism in North America,
hitherto the happy seat of liberty, virtue, and growing science, In
vain did our brave and worthy ancestors, through infinite danger, ex-
pence, and toil, convert this savage wilderness into a civilized and culti
ted country, if their descendants have not sense and virtue enough to
defend it from the ravage and ruin of despotism; for what milder name
can be given to the new claim of taxation, set up by a parliament re-
moved from us a thousand leagues, whose members, nor their constituents,
would pay any part of the tax they impose on us? Who from their
distance and ignorance of our situation and circumstances, can never
judge rightly either of the quantity or quality of such tax, and who finally
would not be restrained by that constitutional check against abuse, the
being liable to be removed, by the people they injured, at a new electi-
on? Let not any person imagine that these unexplained abuses of Boston
are intended only for her. The rod of despotism is in turn to be ap-
plied for the punishment of every colony that moves in defence of liberty.
Let us therefore unite in time, never forgetting ”THAT SMALL
THINGS GROW GREAT BY CONCORD, AND THE GREATEST ARE
LOST BY DISUNION.” When the ministry practice the wicked advice
of Machiavel, and constantly endeavour to divide us, let us follow the wise
counsel of old Micipsa, and unite most firmly, Let us, on this great
occasion, recur to the first principles and practices of the constitution, by
informing the people in every county of their truly critical situation, and
take their sense of what is fittest to be done for the public security. The
representative body will thus be possessed of the opinions and desires of
their constituents, in pursuing which they need not fear to he bravely
and firmly supported.
A LOVER OF THE CONSTITUTION.
Mrs. RIND,
The enclosed PAPER. founded on true constitutional principles, was handed
about, much read, and much liked, at a late public meeting. You are re-
quested, MADAM,to give it a place in your useful paper.
HAMBDEN.
To the FREEHOLDERS and other INHABITANTS of the county of - - - - - - - - - - - -
FELLOW SUBJECTS,
IN most countries of the world the bulk of the people indulge but little
in political difficulties; in some it is death to speak of state affairs,
and even in our mother country too frequent debates about government
matters are esteemed prejudicial to the industry and morals of the people.
If such a maxim is to be received here, without reservation, any attempts
to open the eyes of the people at this alarming crisis may be deemed im-
pertinent, if not criminal; nevertheless, when we hear of people who
condemn all manner of resistance to government, we find ourselves irre-
sistably impelled to throw our mite into the opposite scale. National
attachments and prejudices we despise, and we detest the sordid views of
self-interest, to which the slaves of conveniency have too strong a bias.
To such as on the authority of scripture incline to an implicit subjection
to the higher powers we would observe, in general, that many texts of
the scripture were widely adapted to the circumstances of the Jews
and primitive christians, should in our days be used rather in aid of gene-
ral principles than as particular rules of conduct. A British subject, who
knows his birthright, looks on the English constitution to be the foun
tain head and center of that higher power which commands his obedience.
This constitution is a system of laws reared, as it would seem, and often
favoured and protected by the hand of providence. The king at his
coronation is sworn to the maintenance and preservation of this system,
and may well be considered as the prime minister or first servant of the
constitution, to which, by a wrong use of the powers he is entrusted
with, he may become the most dangerous foe. The excellence of this
constitution, over any which exists in the known world, consists in the
just balance of al its parts, which may be endangered by one part en-
croaching on the rights and privileges of the other. It may be greatly
injured by the undue dependence of one, but it will be totally destroyed
by two of the parts yielding their independence to the corrupt influence
of the third. Whenever matters are arrived at this crisis, a wicked mi-
nister easily procures the consent of parliament to arbitrary acts, subvert-
sive of liberty, and diametrically opposite to the eternal laws of justice.
To pursue the train of consequences would engage too much time here;
be it sufficient, therefore, to observe, that power, thus exercised, is
tyranny, ever odious to a brave, virtuous, and free people, and often
opposed by our forefathers, in times less enlightened and informed than
the present. Opposition to measures subversive of the constitution is no
new doctrine in the history of England. It was on this principle that
many royal favourites paid the forfeit of their lives, that Richard the
second was deposed, Charles the first beheaded, and James the second
obliged to quite the throne. To come nigher to our own case (amidst the
distresses of the mother country, occasioned, in great measure, by the
selfish and arbitrary politics of weak, and wicked counsellors who surround
the throne, and the corrupt compliance of ministers and parliaments)
rapacity opens wide her mouth, and inspired with the rage of taxation,
has for nine of ten years past threatened to plunder all British America,
in contradiction to a true principle of the constitution, which considers
taxation as inseparable from representation. Different administrations,
disregarding all the unanswerable arguments urged by your friends, have
persisted in the favourite point of taxing you without your consent, and
the hand of power is now stretched to force you to the payment of taxes,
in the establishment of which your representatives had no part. Your
tax-masters are charged with having often betrayed the rights and interests
of their constituents: What then can you, on whom they have no de-
pendence, and with whom no communication of sentiments, expect from
them, but taxes without end, and unceasing oppression? For they will
lighten their own burthen in proportion as they increase yours; neither
themselves, or the people that chuse them, being to pay any part of the
taxes they impose on you. Will you put your fortune, your liberties,
and every thing that is held most dear among men, in their power, by
submitting to their unjust taxation; or will you undergo some inconve-
niencies to avert the impending evil, and frustrate the designs, of your
enemies, and the enemies of liberty and humanity? We mean only to
excite your attention to such wise measures as may this day be proposed
by the friends of their country’s just rights, and persuade you to consider
how shameful it will be if they alone, among so many people, are left to
struggle in the cause of liberty and virtue. Go on, then, and by your
unanimity and perseverance, strengthen the hearts and hands of those
you appoint your representatives; exhibit an example worthy of imitation
to other counties, nay, to whole provinces. Thus every liberal soul,
now oppressed with anguish for the degeneracy of the country from which
you sprung, and ardently wishing for its reformation, will receive com-
fort from your proceedings. When such a reformation is produced, we
may have a more grateful, though not a more important occasion, of
addressing you again. In the mean time, we wish you heartily farewell.
W.H.O.
WILLIAMSBURG, JUNE 30.
AT a respectable meeting of FREEHOLDERS and other INHABITANTS
of the county of WESTMORELAND, assembled, on due notice, at
the courthouse of the said county, on Wednesday the 22d day of June, 1774,
the reverend Mr. THOMAS SMITH being first unanimously chosen moderator,
several papers, containing the proceedings of the late HOUSE of BURGESSES
of this colony, and the subsequent determinations of the late representatives,
after the house was dissolved, together with extracts of several resolves of the
provinces of Massachusetts Bay, Maryland, &c. being read, the meeting
proceeded seriously to consider the present dangerous and truly alarming crisis,
when ruin is threatened to the ancient constitutional rights of NORTH AME-
RICA, and came to the following resolves.
I.That to be taxed solely in our provincial assemblies by representatives free-
ly chosen by the people, is a right that British subjects in America are entitled
to from natural justice, from the English constitution, from charters, and from
a confirmation of these by usage, since the first establishment of these colonies.
II. That an endeavour to force submission from one colony, to the payment of
taxes not so imposed, is a dangerous attack on the liberty and property of British
America, and renders it indispensably necessary that all should firmly unite to
resist the common danger,
III. It is the opinion of this meeting, that the town of BOSTON, in our
sister colony of Massachusetts Bay, is now suffering in the common cause of North
America, by having its harbour blocked up, its commerce destroyed, and the
property of many of its inhabitants violently taken from them, until they sub-
mit to taxes not imposed by their consent; and therefore this meeting resolve,
IV. That the inhabitants of this county will most cordially and firmly join
with the other counties in this colony, and the other colonies on this continent, or
the majority of them, after a short day, hereafter to be agreed on, to stop all
exports to Great Britain and the West Indies, and all imports from thence,
until as well the act of parliament intituled “An act to discontinue, in such
manner and for such time as are therein mentioned, the landing and discharging,
lading or shipping of goods, wares, and merchandize, at the town and within
the harbour of Boston, in the province of Massachusetts Bay in North Ame-
rica,” as the several acts laying duties on America, for the purpose of raising
a revenue, and all the acts of the British legislature made against our brothers
of Massachusetts Bay, in consequence of their just opposition to the said revenue
acts, are repealed. And it is the opinion of this meeting, that such a nonim-
porting and nonexporting plan should be quickly entered upon, as well on the
evident principle of self-preservation as to relieving our suffering countrymen and
fellow subjects in Boston, and to restore between Great Britain and America
that harmony so beneficial to the whole empire, and so ardently desired by all
America,
V. Resolved, it is the opinion of this meeting, that the gentlemen of the law
should not (so long as the nonexportation agreement subsists) bring any writ for
the recovery of debt, or push to a conclusion any such suit already brought, it
being utterly inconsistent with a nonexportation plan that judgement should be
given against those who are deprived of the means of paying.
VI. It is resolved, that so soon as the nonexportation agreement begins, we
will, every one of us, keep our produce, whether tobacco, corn, wheat, or any
thing else, unsold, on our own respective plantations, and not carry, or suffer
them to be carried, to any public warehouse or landing place, except of grain,
where the same be so done, on each being first made that such grain is for the use
or consumption from the continent, whilst the said agreement subsists, And this is
the more necessary, to prevent a few designing persons from engrossing and
buying up our tobacco, grain, &.c. when they are low in value, in order to
avail themselves of the very high price that those articles must bear when the
ports are open, and foreign markets empty.
VII. This meeting do heartily concur with the late representative body of
this county to disuse TEA, and no purchase any other commodities of the East
Indies,except SALTPETRE, until the grievances of America are redressed.
VIII. We do most heartily concur in these preceding resolves, and will, to
the utmost of our power, take care that they are carried into execution, and
that we will regard every man as infamous, who now agrees to, and shall
hereafter make a breach of, all or any of them, subject, however, to such
future alterations as shall be judged expedient at a general meeting of deputies
from the several parts of this colony, or a general congress of all the colonies.
IX. We do appoint RICHARD HENRY LEE, and RICHARD
LEE, esquires, the late representatives of this county, to attend the general
meeting of deputies from all the counties, and we desire that they do exert their
best abilities to get these our earnest desires for the security of PUBLIC
LIBERTY assented to.
X. And as it may happen that the assembly, now called to meet on the 11th
day of August, may be prorogued to a future day, and many of the deputies
appointed to meet on the 1st of August, trusting to the certainty of meeting in
assembly on the 11th, may fail to attend on the first, by which means decisive
injury may arise to the common cause of liberty, by the general sense of the
country not being early known at this dangerous crisis of American freedom,
we do therefore direct, that our deputies now chosen fail not to attend at Wil-
liamsburg on the said first day of August; and it is our earnest wish, that the
deputies from the other counties be directed to do the same for the reasons above
assigned.
XI. Resolved, that the clerk do forthwith transmit the proceedings of this
day to the PRESS, and request the printer to publish them without delay.
By order of the meeting,
JAMES DAVENPORT, Clerk
The business of the day being finished, the company repaired to the tavern,
where a dinner had been provided, and the following patriotic and loyal
TOASTS were drank, viz.
1. GOD bless the KING: May he long reign the king of a free and
happy people.
2. The QUEEN and ROYAL FAMILY.
3. The ENGLISH CONSTITUTION.
4. AMERICAN LIBERTY.
5. May the brave and virtuous people of BOSTON be quickly re-
lieved from their present DISTRESS.
6. UNION of GREAT BRITAIN and the COLONIES.
7. Lord CHATHAM.
8.Lord CAMBDEN.
9.Marquis of ROCKINGHAM.
10. Lord SHELBURNE.11. Bishop of St. ASOPH.
12. ALL FRIENDS OF AMERICA.
At a general meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants of PRINCE
GEORGE county the following RESOLVES were proposed and
unanimously agreed to.
RESOLVED, that we will at all times, whenever we are called upon
for that purpose, maintain and defend, at the expence of our lives and
fortunes, his majesty’s right and title to the crown of Great Britain and his
dominions in America, to whose royal person and government we profess all
due obedience and fidelity.
Resolved, that the right to impose taxes to be paid by the inhabi-
tants within this dominion for any purpose whatsoever is peculiar and essential
to the general assembly, in whom the legislative authority of the colony is vested.
Resolved, that every attempt to impose such taxes or duties by any other au-
thority is an arbitrary exertion of power, and an infringement of the constitutional
rights and liberties of the colony.
Resolved, that to impose a tax or duty upon tea by the British parliament,
in which the commons of the North American colonies can have no representation,
to be paid upon importation by the inhabitants of the said colonies, is an act of
power without right, it subversive of the liberties of the said colonies, deprives
them of their property without their own consent, and thereby reduces them to a
state of slavery.
Resolved, that the late cruel, unjust, and sanguinary acts of parliament, to
be executed by military force and ships of war upon our sister colony of the
Massachusetts Bay, and town of BOSTON, is a strong evidence of the
corrupt influence obtained by the British ministry in parliament, and a convincing
proof of their fixed intention to deprive the colonies of their constitutional rights
and liberties.
Resolved, that the cause of the town of Boston is the common cause of all the
American colonies.
Resolved, that if is the duty and interest of all American colonies firmly to
unite in a indissoluble union and association to oppose, by every just and proper
means, the infringement of their common rights and liberties.
Resolved, that a general association between all the American colonies not to
import from Great Britain any commodity whatsoever, except negroes cloaths
and tools, Irish linens, medicines and paper, ought to be entered into and not
dissolved till the just rights of the said colonies are restored to them, and the
cruel acts of the British parliament against the Massachusetts Bay and town of
Boston are repealed.
Resolved, that no friend to the rights and liberties of America ought to pur-
chase any commodity whatsoever, except as is before excepted, which shall be
imported from Great Britain after the general association shall be agreed upon.
Resolved, that every kind of luxury, dissipation, and extravagance, ought
to be banished from amongst us.
Resolved, that manufactures ought to be encouraged by opening subscriptions
for that purpose, or by any other proper means.
Resolved, that the African trade is injurious to this colony, obstructs the
population of it by freeman, prevents manufacturers and other useful emigrants
from Europe form settling amongst us, and occasions an annual encrease of the
balance of trade against this colony.
Resolved, that to be cloathed in manufactures fabricated in the colonies ought
to be considered as a badge and distinction of respect and true patriotism.
Resolved, that the dissolution of the general assembly, by order of the
British ministry, whenever they enter upon the consideration of the rights and
liberties of the subject against attempts to destroy them, is an evidence of the
fixed intention of the said ministry to reduce the colonies to a state of slavery.
Resolved, that the people of this colony, being by such dissolution deprived
of a legal representation, ought to nominate and appoint for every county proper
deputies, to meet upon the 1st day of August, in the city of Williamsburg, then
and there to consult and agree upon the best and most proper means for carrying
into execution these, or any other resolutions, which shall be judged more expe-
dient for the purposes aforesaid.
Resolved, that RICHARD BLAND, and PETER POYTHRESS,
esquires, our late worthy representatives, be and they are hereby nominated
and appointed deputies, upon the part of the freeholders and inhabitants of this
county, to meet such deputies as shall be appointed by the other counties and
corporations within the colony, in the city of Williamsburg, upon the 1st day
of August next, or at any other time or place for the purposes aforesaid.
Resolved, that at this important and alarming conjuncture, it be earnestly
recommended to the said deputies at the said general convention that they nomi-
nate and appoint fit and proper persons, upon the part of this colony, to meet
such deputies in a general congress as shall be appointed upon the part of the
other continental colonies in America, to consult and agree upon a firm and in-
dissoluble union and association for preserving, by the best and most proper
means, their common rights and liberties.
Resolved, that this colony ought not to trade with any colony which shall
refuse to join in any union and association that shall be agreed upon by the greater
part of the other colonies upon this continent for preserving their common rights
and liberties.
Resolved, that the clerk of this meeting transmit to the printers of both
gazettes copies of these resolutions, with the earnest of this county that
the other counties and corporations within the colony will appoint deputies to
meet at the time and place, and for the purpose of aforesaid.
THEODORICK BLAND, Clerk of the meeting.
Extract of a letter from a correspondent in Fredericksburg, dated June 2.
Since my return from Williamsburg last Saturday, I have examined
the neighboring fields of wheat, and am certain that there will be very
little damage sustained by the late frost. As some of the fields were in-
jured as much as any in this colony could be, I have hopes that the crops
in general must be nearly equal with what was ever expected. I have seen
persons from Dunmore, Orange, and Loudoun, who say the wheat in
these counties is exceeding fine. The season has been dry, but the con-
sequences have been favorable; for a wet season would probably have
brought on the rust.”
An express, which arrived at the PALACE last night from colonel
Andrew Lewis and colonel Preston, reports, that three or four families
have been lately cut off by the Indians, and that upwards of 300 of those
barbarians were discovered, about 10 days ago, by the scoutinb parties
sent out by colonel Lewis, fortifying themselves just beyond Green Briar.
It appears that they were well supplied with guns and ammunition of every
kind, and that they are very vigorous in getting themselves in as complete
readiness as possible. Six hundred of the frontier inhabitants are already
raised, and the number is daily increasing; so that from the activity,
prudence, and courage, of colonel Lewis and colonel Preston, and the
willingness of the back people to do every thing in their power to serve
the country, our case may not be so deplorable as was at first imagined.
Another express is hourly expected.
Last Friday Mr. GEORGE ABYVON was elected mayor of the
borough of Norfolk.
ACADEMICUS is received, and will be attended to in our next.
**As the MEMBERS of the late HOUSE of BURGESSES have
referred the consideration of the important matters recommended to
them by some of the northern colonies to the first date of August next,
it is expected the members who may be chosen at the ensuing election will
not fail to meet at the time appointed. There is no necessity to repre-
sent to the public what an appearance it would have to keep them longer
in suspence about our determination.
THE MODERATOR.
A BILL for the better regulating the government of the province of the
MASSACHUSETTS BAY, in NORTH AMERICA.
WHEREAS by letters patent under the great seal of England,
made in the 3d year of the reign of their late majesties king
William and queen Mary, for uniting, erecting, and incorporating, the
several colonies, territories, and tracts of land, therein mentioned, into
one real province should from thenceforth be appointed and com-
missioned by their majesties, their heirs and successors, it was however
granted and ordained, that from the expiration of the term, for and
during which the eight and twenty persons named in the said letters
patent were appointed to be the first counsellors or assistants to the go-
vernor of the said province for the time being, the aforesaid number of
28 counsellors or assistants should yearly once every year, for ever there-
after, be, by the general court or assembly, newly chosen. And whereas
the said method of electing such counsellors or assistants, to be vested
with the several powers, authorities, and privileges, therein mentioned,
although comfortable to the practice heretofore used, in such of the co-
lonies thereby united, in which the appointment of the respective gover-
nors had been vested in the general courts or assemblies of the said colonies,
hath by repeated experience been found to be extremely ill adapted to the
plan of government established in the province of the Massachusetts Bay,
by the said letters patent herein before mentioned, and hath been so far
from contributing to the attainment of the good ends and purposes there-
by intended, and to the promoting of the internal welfare, peace, and
good government or to the maintenance of that just subordination to,
and conformity with, the laws of Great Britain, that the manner of ex-
ercising the power, authorities, and privileges aforesaid, by the persons
so annually elected, hath for some time past been such as had the most
manifest tendency to obstruct, and in great measure to defeat the execution
of the laws, to weaken the attachment of his majesty’s well disposed sub-
jects, in the said province, to his Majesty’s government, and to encourage
the ill disposed among them to proceed even to acts of direct resistance to,
and defiance of, his majesty’s authority; and it hath accordingly happened,
that an open resistance to the execution of the laws hath actually taken
place in the town of Boston, and the neighborhood thereof, within the
said province. And whereas it is, under these circumstances, become
absolutely necessary, in order to the preservation of the peace and good
order of the said province, the protection of his majesty’s well disposed
subjects therein resident, the continuance of the mutual benefits arising
from the commerce and correspondence between this kingdom and the
said province, and the maintaining of the just dependence of the said pro-
vince upon the crown and parliament of Great Britain, that the said
method of annually electing the counsellors or assistants of the said pro-
vince should no longer be suffered to continue, but that the appointment
of the said counsellors or assistants should henceforth be put upon the like
footing as is established in such other of his majesty’s colonies or plantati-
ions in America, the governors whereof are appointed by his majesty’s
commission under the great seal of Great Britain. Be it therefore e-
nacted, by the king’s most excellent majesty, by and with the advice and
consent of the lords spiritual and temporal, and commons, in this present
parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, that from and
after the so much of the charter granted by their majesties king
William and queen Mary, to the inhabitants of the said province of the
Massachusetts Bay, in New England, and all and every clause, matter,
and thing, therein contained, which relates to the time and manner of
electing the assistants, or counsellors, for the said province, and all elec-
tions and appointments of such counsellors and assistants made in pursuance
thereof, shall and that from and after the said the
council or court of assistants of the said province for the time being shall
be composed of such of the inhabitants or proprietors of lands within the
same, as shall be heretofore nominated and appointed by his majesty, his
heirs and successors, by warrant under his or their signet or sign, manual,
and with the advice of the privy council, agreeable to the practice now
used in respect to the appointment of counsellors in such of his majesty’s
other colonies in America, the governors whereof are appointed by com-
mission under the great seal of Great Britain; provided that the number
of the said assistants or counsellors shall not at any one time exceed
nor be less than And it is hereby further enacted, that the said
assistants or counsellors so to be appointed as aforesaid, shall hold their
offices respectively, for and during his majesty’s pleasure, his heirs or
successors, and shall have and enjoy all the powers, privileges, and immu-
nities, at present held, exercised, and enjoyed, by the assistants or coun-
sellors of the said province, constituted and elected from time to time,
under the said charter, except as herein after excepted; and shall also,
upon their admission into the said, council, and before they enter upon the
execution of their offices, respectively, take the oaths, and make, repeat,
and subscribe, the declaration required, as well by the said charter as by
any law or laws of said province now in force, to be taken by the assistants
or counsellors, which have been so elected and constituted as aforesaid.
And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that from and after,
the it shall and may be lawful for his majesty’s governor for the
time being, of the said province, or in his absence, for the lieutenant
governor to nominate and appoint, under the seal of the province, from
time to time, the judges of the interior courts of common pleas, commis-
sioners of oyer and terrminer, the attorney general, sheriffs, provosts mar-
shals, justices of the peace, and other officers to the council or courts of
justice belonging, and to remove the same without the consent of the
council; and that all judges of the inferior courts of common pleas, com-
missioners of oyer and terminer, the attorney general, sheriff, provosts
marshals, justices, and other officers so appointed by the governor, or in
his absence, by the lieutenant governor alone, shall and may have, hold,
and exercise, their said offices, powers, and authorities as fully and com-
pletely, to all intents and purposes, as any judges of the inferior courts
of common pleas, commissioners of oyer and terminer, attorney general,
sheriffs, provosts marshals, or other officers, have or might have done
heretofore under the letters patent, in the third year of the reign of
their late majesties king William and queen Mary, any law, statue, or
usage, to the contrary notwithstanding. Provided always, and be it
enacted, that nothing herein contained shall extend, or be construed to
extend to annul or make void the commission granted before the
to any judges of the inferior courts of common pleas, commissioners of
oyer and terminer, the attorney general, sheriffs, provosts marshals,
justices of the peace, or other officers; but that they may hold and ex-
ercise the same, as if this act had never been made, until the same shall
be determined by death, removal by the governor, or other avoidance,
as the case may happen. And be it further enacted by the authority
aforesaid , that upon ever vacancy of the offices of chief justice and judges
of th e superior court of the said province, from and after the
the governor for the time being, or in his absence the lieutenant go-
vernor, without the consent of the council, shall have full power and
authority to nominate and appoint the persons to succeed to the said
offices, who shall hold their commissions during the pleasure of his ma-
jesty his heirs and successors; and that neither the chief justice and
judges appointed before the said nor those who shall hereafter be
appointed pursuant to this act, shall be removed, unless by order of his
majesty, his heirs or successors, under his or their sign manual. And be
it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, that the governor, lieute-
nant governor, chief justice, the judges of the superior court, and the
secretary of the said province, for the time being, shall be, and they are
hereby appointed, during their continuance in their respective offices,
justices of the peace in and for every county of the said province, and shall
and may have, hold, and enjoy, all the powers and authorities given to
the justices of the peace by virtue of their commission, or by any act of
the general court of the said province. And whereas by an act of the
general court of the said province, made in the fourth year of the reign
of their late majesties king William and queen Mary, intituled ”an act
for regulating of townships, choice of town officers, and setting forth
their power,” the freeholders and inhabitants of the several townships,
rateable at twenty pounds estate, are authorized to assemble together, in
the month of March in every year, upon notice given by the constable,
or such other as the select men of the town shall appoint, for the choice
of select men, constables and other officers; and the freeholders and inha-
bitants are also impowered to make and agree upon such necessary rules,
orders, and bye-laws, for the directing, managing, and ordering, the
prudential affairs, and to annex penalties for the non observance of the
same, not exceeding twenty shillings for one offence; provided they be
not repugnant to the general laws of the said province. And whereas a
great abuse has been made of the power of such meetings, and the inha-
bitants have, contrary to the design of their institution, been misled to
treat upon matters of the most general concern, and to pass many danger-
ours and unwarrantable resolves; for remedy whereof, be it enacted, that
from and after the no town meeting shall be called by the select
men, or at the request of any number of freeholders, without the leave
of the governor in writing, expressing the special business of the said
meeting, first had and obtained, except the annual meeting, in the
month of March, for the choice of select men, constables, and other
officers; and that no other matter shall be treated of at such meeting
except the election of their aforesaid officers, nor at any other meeting,
except the business expressed in the leave given by the governor. And
whereas, in pursuance of an act of assembly of the said province, made
in the 7th year of the reign of William the third, and three other acts
of assembly made in the eleventh year of the same reign, jurors, as well
grand as petty, have been usually summoned and returned by the con-
stables of the several towns, by virtue of writs or warrants directed to
them by the clerks of the several courts, requiring them to assemble the
inhabitants of the said towns, to chuse fit persons to serve as jurors for
such towns, and to summon and return such persons so chosen; which
practice of chusing jurors, and returning them, without the intervention
of the sheriff, has been found to be detrimental to the administration of
justice; be it therefore enacted by the authority aforesaid, that from and
after the next ensuing, so much of the said acts of assembly, and
of all other laws now in force, withing the said province, as directs the re-
turns of juries to be made by the constables, by an election of the inha-
bitants of the several towns, shall and all jurors, as well grand
as petty , shall be returned by the sheriffs of the several counties, and no
otherwise; and the justices of the superior court of the said province, at
a convenient time before the sitting of the superior court in every county,
and the justices of the peace for every county in the said province, at a
convenient time before the sitting of the quarter session of such county,
shall issue their precepts or warrants to the sheriff of such county, for
such several courts respectively to summon, out of the freeholders and
inhabitants of such county qualified to serve upon juries, such a number
of good and lawful men as such precept or warrant shall direct, to serve
upon the grand jury at such respective court; and such persons so sum-
moned and returned by the said sheriff, or such of them as shall appear,
shall be impannelled and sworn the grand inquest for the body of the
county, and shall continue as such during the sitting of such respective
court, and until they shall be dismissed by the same; and in all indict-
ments, information, actions, and causes depending before the superior
court, or any court of quarter session, or court of common pleas, in the
said province, which shall be at issue, and ordered for trial, the juries
shall be summoned, impannelled, and returned, by the sheriff of the
country, out of the freeholders and inhabitants of the said county qualified
to serve upon juries, and shall be chosen and arrayed in such manner and
form, and by and with such regulations and restrictions, as is directed
and ordered in and by an act of parliament, made in the seventh and
eighth years of the reign of his late majesty king William the third, in
tituled “an act for the ease of jurors, and better regulating of juries;”
and one other act, made in the eighth and ninth years of the same reign,
intituled “an act to enable the returns of juries as formerly, until the
first day of November, one thousand six hundred and ninety seven;” and
one other act of parliament, ,made in the third year of the reign of his
late majesty king George the second, intitled “an act for the better
regulation of juries; and one other act, made in the twenty fourth year
of the same reign, intituled “an act for the better regulation of trials by
jury, and for enlarging the time for trials by nisi prius, iin the country of
Middlesex.” And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that
lists of the freeholders and inhabitants of the several towns, qualified
to serve upon juries, shall be returned to, and recoded at, the quarter
sessions of the several counties, and shall be delivered to the several
sheriffs in manner and form as directed by the said acts of parliament, or
any of them; and until such lists of such freeholders and inhabitants shall
be delivered as aforesaid, the sheriff of any county shall and may summon
and return fit persons to serve upon juries as aforesaid, out of the body of
the freeholders and inhabitants of the county, qualified to serve upon
juries, according to his judgment and discretion; and whenever the
judges of the superior court shall award a special jury to be struck (which
they are hereby authorized and impowered to do in such manner as special
juries have been usually struck in the court at Westminster at trials at bar)
and if the sheriff of the county in which such jury shall be awarded shall
not have received lists of the freeholders and inhabitants qualified to serve
upon juries, as herein before ordered and directed, such sheriff shall attend
the proper office of the said court with a list of of the principal
freeholders and inhabitants of the said county qualified to serve upon
juries, and the said special jury shall be struck out of the said list; and
it shall and may be lawful for the justices of the said superior court, and
they are hereby authorized and empowered upon the motion of either of
the parties, in any cause or action which shall be brought to issue, to order
the said cause or action to be tried in any county, other than the county
in which the said cause or action which shall have been brought or laid, by a
jury of such other county, as they shall judge fit and proper, any act of
assembly or provincial law to the contrary notwithstanding. And be it
further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that all clerks of courts,
sheriffs , constables, and other persons within the said province, to whom
the ordering, making, delivering, or recording the lists of the freeholders
and inhabitants qualified to serve upon juries aforesaid, shall belong or
appertain, according to the true intent and meaning of this present act,
and the aid acts hereby referred to, who shall be guilty of any willful
neglect, default or misfeasance, in carrying into execution this act,
according to its true intent and meaning, shall incur and suffer such fines
and penalties as are severally mentioned in the said acts of parliament
hereby referred to; and all persons who being duly qualified as aforesaid,
shall be dully summoned to serve upon juries in manner aforesaid, and
shall not attend such service, shall incur and suffer such fines and penalties
as by the laws of the said province, jurors making default are now subject
to. And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid, that if any
action shall be brought against any sheriff, for what he shall do in execu-
tion, or by virtue of this act, he may plead the general issue, and give
the special matter in evidence; and if a verdict shall be found for him,
he shall recover costs.
FRIDAY, JULY 1.
This afternoon, at 4 o’clock, the northern post arrived; but as he has
brought nothing of very great moment, and as our paper is already chiefly
filled with the proceedings of this colony, and some interesting pieces
relative thereto, we shall select only a few articles, which we think the
most material that have occurred since our last.
The number of governor Hutchinson’s addressers, consisting of mer-
chants, shopkeepers, pedlars, pettifoggers, &.c. amounted to ONE HUNDRED
AND FORTY; and, it is said, great pains were taken throughout Boston,
and many other towns, to procure that number, which must certainly
appear very contemptible, when it is considered, that there are full four
hundred thousand inhabitants in that province.
The house of representatives of the English colony of Connecticut have
come into very spirited resolves; they acknowledge all due obedience
and loyalty to their sovereign, that they are ever willing to support him
to the utmost of their power; but, they say, “that the late act of par-
liament, inflicting pains and penalties on the town of Boston, by blocking
up their harbour, is a precedent justly alarming to the British colonies in
America, and wholly inconsistent with, and subversive of, their constitu-
tional rights and liberties.”
General Gage has been addressed by a great number of the principal
people of Boston, imploring his kind endeavours to assist them as far as
possible in procuring redress with respect to the Boston port bill, and,
with his usual benevolence, promises every thing to effect so desirable a
purpose; but as his excellency mentions in his answer that he has re-
ceived particular commands for holding the general court at Salem,
”from the 1st day of June until his majesty shall have signified his royal
will and pleasure for holding it again at Boston,” they have remonstrated
against it in the most express terms, and declare they are entirely at a loss
for the cause of this command, and cannot conceive any public utility
arising from it, more especially as they and their constituents are now
suffering the greatest inconveniences in consequence of the same.-----And
here follow the resolves of the house of representatives, before they pro-
ceded to business in Salem, on Wednesday last, which were ordered to
be entered on their journals:
Resolved, that by the royal charter of this province, the power of con-
vening, proroguing, and adjourning, the great and general court or
assembly, from time to time, is vetted in the governor, to be exercised
as he shall judge necessary, and for the good of the people; therefore
Resolved, that it is clearly the opinion of this house, that whensoever
the governor of the province doth convene or hold the general assembly
at any time or place unnecessarily, or merely in obedience to an instructi-
on, and without exercising that judgement and discretion of his own,
with which by charter he is specially vested for the good of the province,
it is manifestly inconsistent with the letter, as well as the spirit and in-
tention, of the charter.
Resolved, that the town of Boston hath, from the earliest times of
this province, been judged, and still is, on various accounts, the most
convenient place for holding the general assembly, and accordingly ample
provision is there made for the accommodation of the said general assem-
bly, at a very great expence to the people of this province.
Resolved, as the clear opinion of this house, that the general assem-
ly cannot be removed from its ancient seat, the courthouse in Boston
and held in any other place, without great and manifold inconveniencies
to the members thereof, and injury and damage to those who have ne-
cessary business to transact with the said general assembly; may of
which in inconveniencies have been clearly stated, and expressed by former
house of representatives, as appear by their journals.
Resolved, tha this house can see no necessity for the removal of the
general assembly from its ancient, and only convenient place, the court-
house in Boston to the town of Salem; and the removal of the said
assembly from the courthouse in Boston, without necessity, is at all times
to be considered a very great grievance.
Last Wednesday his excellency governor Wentworth, of Newhampshite,
sent the following message to the honourable house of representatives,
then sitting at Portsmouth:
Mr. SPEAKERS, and GENTLEMEN of the ASSEMBLY,
”As I look upon the measures entered upon by the house of assembly
to be inconsistent with his majesty’s service, and the good of this govern-
ment, it is my duty, as far as in me lies, to prevent any detriment that
might arise from such proceedings, I do therefore hereby dissolve the
general assembly of this province, and it is dissolved accordingly.”
It has been lately proposed, by some writers in England, to have an
American LAND TAX, equal to what it is in Great Britain.
The public are hereby assured that a paragraph lately published in Mr.
Holt’s paper, intimating that Dr. Franklin’s successor in the general
postoffice has power to open all letters from the committees of corre-
spondence in this country is an atrocious falsehood.
The port of Boston was on Tuesday last cleared of every vessel intended
for sea, it being the sdy on which the late act of parliament prescribes
that no vessel, except in his majesty’s service, shall be allowed to depart
from that port until the king in council may be pleased to suspend its
operation
To Mr. BOLLING STARK.
SIR,
IN answer to your advertisement in Mrs. Rind’s paper of the 16th
instant, I can inform you that James Young, therein mentioned, died
in Westmoreland county, at the house of Mr. Edward Sanford, near the
courthouse, in February 1765; that Mr. Sanford, in the same month,
administered on his estate, which amounted to no more than 7l. 19s.
as appears by the inventory returned in May following, and consisted of
little or nothing but his joiners tools. He died unmarried, and without
issue. I am, SIR, your humble servant,
JAMES DAVENPORT.
WESTMORELAND,
June 24, 1774.
PURSUSNT 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
Potowmack. This LAND is well known by the description of the
BULL RUN MOUNTAINS, and is very fertile. Also 6500 acres on
Shanandoah river, in the county of Frederick, opposite to Snicker’s ordi
nary, 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 im-
proved for cropping, 110 slaves, and very large and choice stocks of
horses (some of the dray 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 pre-
mises , on the 24th of November next, or next fair day. The Loudoun
lands will be sold at West’s ordinary on the 31st day of the same month,
and both tracts laid off in lots to suit every kind of purchaser, who may
see them by applying to Mr. Francis Peyton, living near the Loudoun
lands, and Mr. William Dawson, who resides on the Shanandoah tract.
Among the slaves are two good blacksmiths, two carpenters, and an ex-
ceeding trusty and skilful waggoner. The aged black cattle and grown
hogs will be fattened for slaughter. Purchasers above 25 pound will be
allowed credit for 12 months, on giving bond and security to the sub-
cribers, who will be prepared to make conveyances.
JOHN TAYLOE
GEORGE WASHONGTON.
NORFOLK, June 20, 1774.
WHEREAS the concern of Hector Mac Alester and company was
dissolved on the first instant, the partners thereof, from a desire
of bringing their affairs to a speedy conclusion, once more request all per-
sons indebted to them to make immediate payment, either to Robert Do-
nald, of Warwick, or the subscriber, in Norfolk; and as it is not in their
power to extend father the indulgence which, for a long time, has been
granted to many, they hope that due regard will be paid to this applica-
tion. Those who have any demands against the said concern are desired
to make them known, that they may be adjusted and paid. The sub-
scriber will continue to do business int his place on his own account, and
solicits the favours of his friends.
HECTOR MAC ALESTER.
FOR SALE,
TWO thousand six hundred and seventy five ACRES of LAND
in Gloucester county, lying in Petworth parish, upon which there
is a very good mill on an excellent stream of water. It will be laid off
in lots for the convenience of purchasers; and as it is entailed land, ap-
plication will be made to the next general assembly for an act to dock the
entail. Mr.Lewis Booker will shew the land, and make known the
terms. WILSON M. CARY
TO BE SOLD, UPON LONG CREDIT,
NINE hundred ACRES of good corn LAND, lying withing three
miles of Suffolk courthouse; it is well timbered, &.c, Also five
hundred and eighty two ACRES of very valuable LAND, lying in
Brunswick county, near Sword’s Bridge. On it is a good dwellinghouse,
and several necessary out houses; the planation is in good order for
cropping, with six or eight hands. Those inclined to purchase may know
the terms by applying to the subscriber, living on the last mentioned
premises. W, MASON.
To be SOLD, on Thursday the 1st of September, at
Hanover courthouse,
A TRACT of LAND in Hanover county, containing
795 acres, adjoining the lands of Mr. Trueheart
and Mr. Geddes Winston, is about 14 miles from Page’s
warehouse, and about twelve from the town of Rich-
mond. There is a large quantity of excellent pine tim-
ber upon it, the soil is good for wheat and Indian corn,
and the whole is divided into lots of 265 acres each, for
the convenience of purchasers. Credit will be allowed
until October 1775, the purchasers giving bond and se-
curity; and the bonds to carry interest from the date,
if not discharged when they become due.
LEWIS BURWELL,
LEWIS BURWELL, junior,
ANNECAMPBELL.
KINGSMILL,
JUNE 22, 1774.
3
To be SOLD, on Thursday the 7th of July, at the house wherein Mrs
Mary Singleton lives, in Williamsburg,
THE HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE of the late Mr. Richard
Hunt Singleton. Credit will be allowed till November next for all
sums above TWENTY SIX SHILLINGS, the purchaser giving bond
and approved security.
FOR SALE,
TWO thousand ACRES of exceeding fine LAND for tobacco,
wheat, or Indian corn, lying on both sides of Bull Run, in Loudoun
and Prince William, about 300 acres of which are rich low ground and
about ten miles of two other merchant mills in Loudoun; thirty miles
from Colchester, Alexandria, and Dumfries. If any person or persons in-
cline to purchase the whole, or any part of the said lands, they may be
shewn them, and know the terms, by applying to captain Francis Peyton,
in Loudoun county, who has full power to treat for the same, or to the
subscriber. It is laid off in lots of two, three, and four hundred acres,
with an equal quantity of low ground and meadow land to each lot.
1 m tf) ROBERT BURWELL.
RUN away from the subscriber, about a fortnight ago, a mulatto
fellow named CORNELIUS, who is well known in York,
Gloucester, and most counties in Virginia, having travelled with me for
several years though different parts of the colony. When he first
eloped it was imagined he would have gone to Carolina; but within these
ten days he was met about 3 miles from Gloucestertown, in company
with a mulatto woman of Mr. Dedman’s, of York, who is said to be his
wife. Whoever apprehends the above mentioned fellow, and will de-
liver him to me, shall receive THREE POUNDS reward, over and
above what is allowed by act of assembly.
’3’ J. H. NORTON.
RUN away on the 16th instant (June) from the subscriber in Au-
gusta, a negro man named BACCHUS, a thick, strong, well
made fellow about 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, 30 years of age; took
with him two white ruffia drill coats, one turned up with blue, the
other is quite new, plain made, with white figured metal buttons; also
a pair of blue plush breeches, a fine cloth pompadour waistcoat, two or
three thin or summer jackets, sundry pair of white thread stockings, 5
or 6 white shirts, two of them pretty fine, neat shoes, silver buckles,
a fine hat, cut and cocked in the macaroni figure, a double milled drab
great coat, and sundry other wearing apparel. He formerly belonged to
Doctor George Pitt, in Williamsburg, and I imagine is gone there, under
pretence of my sending him upon business as I have frequently heretofore
done. He is cunning, artful, and sensible, and very capable of forging
a tale to impose on the unwary, is well acquainted with the lower parts of
the country, having constantly rode with me for some years past, and has
been used to waiting from his infancy. He was seen a few days before
he went off with a purse of dollars, and had just changed a 5l. bill; most
or all of which, I suppose he must have robbed me of, which he might
easily have done, as I trusted him much, and placed too great a confi-
dence in his fidelity. It is probable he may endeavour to pass as a free
man, by the name of John Christian, and endeavour to get on board
some vessel bound for Great Britain, from a knowledge he has of the late
determination of Somerset’s café. Whoever takes up the said slave, and
delivers him to me, shall receive FIVE POUNDS.
’4’ GABRIEL JONES.
TEN POUND REWARD.
RUN away from the subscriber, near the fourth branch of Meherrin
river, in Mecklenburg county, a negro man named BOB, about 5
fee 9 inches high, 26 years old,
Virginia born, is very sensible, has bad
teeth, speaks very hoarse, and has a small mark on his upper lip; his
forehead, which is fleshy, hangs much over his eyes, and makes a dent
in his nose joining his forehead. He is a little bow-legged, and his feet
are large; can make shoes, play on the fiddle, and is fond of signing with
it; he passes as a free man, and calls himself ROBERT CHAVER S.
He broke Norfolk goal in May last, was seen at Craney Island, and is sup-
posed to be gone towards Hampton. Whoever delivers him to me shall
have the above reward, or FIVE POUNDS to secure him in any goal,
so that I get him again. I forewarn all masters of vessels from taking
him out of the colony at their peril.
(2) RICHARD WITTON.
STRAYED from the subscriber, in Hanover county, some time in
April last, a black horse colt, 2 years old last spring, about 4 feet 2
or 3 inches high, neither cut, docked, or branded, and is rather slender
made. I imagine he is up the country, as he was seen that way, in
company with a black beast. Whoever will deliver him to me shall have
TWENTY SHILLINGS, besides what the law allows.
’3’ AUGUSTINE LONGAN.
TAKEN up, near Naylor’s Hole, an old roan sorrel horse, about 4 feet
7 inches high, with a large star in his forehead, both hind feet white,
has a lump a little below the hock of his left hind leg, which occasions
him to limp, a short sprig tail, and small thin mane, but no perceivable
brand. Posted, and appraised to 3l. 10s.
FAUNTELROY DYE.
TAKEN up, in Essex, a middle fixed grey horse, about four feet seven
or right inches high, paces and trots, is rather dull, and branded on
the near buttock ***. Posted, and appraised to 11l.
JOHN EDMONDSON, junior.
TAKEN up, in Goochland, a white mare, 4 feet 7 inches high, about
10 years old, branded on the near buttock T A, is a little fleabitten,
has a hanging mane and switch tale, and is in good order. Posted, and
appraised to 12l.
() RICHARD WADE.
TAKEN up, ikkkn the fork of Robinson river, Culpepper county, a dark
bay horse, about 4 feet, 9 inches high, branded on the near shoulder
I, and on the near buttock G, has a small star in his forehead, and ap-
peears to be old. Posted, and appraised to 5l.
() JOHN JACKSON.
WILLIAMSBURG, June 20, 1774.
LOST, a WARRANT, under the hand and seal of
his excellency the earl of Dunmore, granted to
Edward Wilkinson, and by him assigned to me, for 200
acres of land in Augusta, on the western waters, directed
to the surveyor of that county. Any person that will
deliver the same to Mr. James Southall, of this city, or
to me, in Berkely county, shall have 20s. The public
are hereby warned against taking a conveyance of the
said warrant; and the several surveyors are requested to
observe this advertisement. 2+ R. RUTHERFORD.
NORFOLK, June 13, 1774.
THE subscribers have for SALE MADERIRA WINE,
BARBADOS RUM, CANE, SPIRIT, and
MUSCADO SUGAR.
PHRIPP and BOWDOIN.
To be SOLD cheap, for ready money,
A FOUR WHEELED SULKEY,
for a single horse; also a horse for
the saddle or chaise, but would best suit a
lady’s riding. Enquire of the printer.
Warwick, June 15, 1774.
INTEND to leave the colony soon.
JAMES RIDDELL.
TO BE SOLD.
A TRACT of LAND in Berkley and Frederick
counties, containing 12,076 acres; it lies 7 miles
on each side of Shenando river, the quantity on the east
side, being only a slip of low ground, is inconsiderable;
the quality of the land is remarkably good, and the con-
veniencies attending it great. There are two plentiful
streams of water running through marshes three miles in
length, some of which are already reclaimed meadows,
and the rest, at a very small expence, might soon be re-
duced to the like state. On each side of the streams mills
might be erected and furnaces, the land affording stone,
lime, iron, and lead ore. On one of the streams I have
already erected a complete merchant mill, with a pair of
the best French burrs for grinding of wheat, and a pair of
common stones for grinding of Indian corn; besides
this, there is near the dwelling house a tub mill, and on
the other stream there is a valuable saw mill. There
are five settled and improved plantations; on one of
them is a good stone house, 2 stories high, with 2 rooms
on a floor, a kitchen, dairy, and all other convenient out-
houses; on another plantation, where Michael Pike lived,
there is a good stone house; and at the other plantations
there are overseers houses, negro quarters, barns, stables,
tobacco houses, &c. The above tract shall be either par-
tioned off in lots of 1000 or 500 acres, or sold bodily to
one purchaser. Belonging to this estate there are 112
negroes to be disposed of, together with all the stocks of
cattle, equal to any in the colony, horses, mares, colts,
hogs, &c. likewise all the necessary implements for the
planter or farmer. Any person or persons inclinable to
purchase are desired to make their proposals to me at
Rosegill, on Rappahannoch river, or to leave them with
the overseer, who lives at the house plantation, and will
shew the land. In November I shall be on the premises,
and may then be personally treated with. Part of this
land, and some of the negroes, belong to my eldest son,
who leaves to me the disposition thereof, and will confirm
any engagement I enter into on his part.
6 RALPH WORMELEY.
NOTICE is hereby given that there are now remain-
ing in Osborne’s warehouse, in Chesterfield county,
ten hogsheads of tobacco (numbers, weights, and names,
as follow) which have been inspected upwards of 3 years.
No. Gr. Ta. Nett. Planters names.
541 1300 143 1157 Joseph Friend, a note out.
701 1213 128 1085 James R. Bradby.
1270 1170 132 1038 John Hill (P. Edward) a note out.
1864 1063 121 942 Hen. Cox (Charlotte) a note out.
2147 1000 141 859 John Noel (AB) stem. hogshead.
2159 1028 107 921 Mrs. Anne Booker (Wentenham)
2828 1263 127 1136 John Pleasant.
2842 1007 120 887 Drury Thompson.
2921 1157 114 1043 Hen. Cox (Charlotte) a note out.
2963 1300 113 1187 Lewis Shelton.
Edwards &c. Graves.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND containing 456 acres,
lying in the upper end of Hanover country, on the
main road that leads from Hanover town to the moun-
tains, on which is a good dwelling house, and several
out houses. The plantation is in good order, and suffici-
ent to work 5 or 6 hands. The terms may be known by
applying to Mr. David Anderson, of Hanover, who will
shew the land, or to the subscriber, in Albemarle.
RICHARD ANDERSON.
FOR SALE,
A WELL accustomed ORDINARY in the town of
Blandford, which has always rented for 75. A
year, it having many valuable improvements and con-
veniencies. Any person inclining to view the premises,
and to be acquainted with the terms, ,may apply to the
subscriber near said town; who will also dispose of the
household and kitchen furniture, if it suits the purchaser.
JOHN BUTLER, senior.
YORK TOWN, June 16, 1774.
RUN away last night from the ship London, at an-
chor before this town, William Beckly, and Ned,
or Margate, two young seamen belonging to the said
ship, who also stole the jolly boat, and some provisions;
the boat has the ship’s name on some part of her and on
the oars, is painted white, has a white bottom, and is
very small. A reward of 20s. will be given for the sailors
and the same for the boat, besides, what the laws allows’
upon their being brought to the shop. ‘
MOSES ROBERTSON.
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, five feet eight
or nine inches high, slim made, and has a thin visage,
has lost several of his upper foreteeth, is fond of singing.
and can sing well. The said fellow has several suits of
clothes, 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 run away,
and passed for a free man in the counties of King Wil-
liam, 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 neigh-
bourhood, and as he was raised in Petersburg, it is very
probable he may be in those parts. Whoever will take
up the said runaway, and deliver him to me, at Osborne’s,
shall receive FORTY SHILLINGS reward.
PETERFIELD TRENT.
***All persons are forbid harbouring or carrying
him out of the colony. 3
As I purpose giving up the charge of the store now
under my management at Petersburg, on account
of Mess. William Cuningham and company, of Glasgow,
to Mr. Alexander Hanburgh, on the 1st of September
next, I beg the favour of all those who have had dealings
with me on account of the above mentioned company,
to settle their accounts before that time, and grant bond,
or some other specialty, that no dispute may arise there-
after. The store will be supplied with goods, and carried
on to the same extent as usual by Mr. Hanburgh.
3 THOMSAS GORDON.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a small dark bay, or black
horse, about 9 or 10 years old, about 4 feet 10
inches high, branded on the near shoulder W P, and on
the near buttock W, trots and paces, has a hanging
mane and switch tail, is shod all round, and has some
saddle spots. JOHN CLARK.
TAKEN up, in Pittsylvania, a dark bay gelding, 5
years old, 14 hands high, branded X on the near
shoulder, and something resembling the same mark on
the near buttock, but is scarcely perceivable, and is shod
before with shoes remarkably broad, has a small star in
his forehead, and a saddle spot on each side. Posted,
and appraised to 10l. Also a brindle cow, 10 yeasr old,
marked with a crop in the left ear, and appraised to 2l.
Likewise a red heifer, with a white face, about 3 years
old, unmarked, appraised to 1l. 10s.
PETER COPLAND.
TAKEN up, in Pittsylvania, a dark grey gelding,
branded S H on the near shoulder, and H S on
the near buttock, about 7 years old, 4 feet 5 inches
high, and had on a bell and collar. Appraised to 7l.
10s. AMBROSE JONES.
TAKEN up, in Hanover county, near the Fork
Church, a black heifer, with a mealy nose, about
three years old, not marked. Posted, and appraised
to 1l. JOHN HENDRICK.
TAKEN up, in Bedford, a mouse coloured mare,
about 2 year old, 4 feet 4 inches high, one half
of her off hind foot white, docked, but not branded.
Appraised to 8l. Alexander Butler.
Top be SOLD, at BELVOIR,
THE seat of the honourable George William Fair-
fax, esquire, in Fairfax county, on Monday the
15th of August next (pursuant to his direction) all his
HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE of
every kind, consisting of beds and their furniture, tables
and chairs, and every other necessary article, mostly new,
and very elegant. Ready money will be expected from
every purchaser under five pounds, and twelve months
credit allowed those who exceed that sum, upon their
giving bond, with approved security; to carry interest
from the date if the money is not paid within forty days
after it becomes due.
6 FRANCIS WILLIS, 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 Potowmack river, in
Fairfax county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The
mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four con-
venient 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 furnish-
ed 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 se-
veral valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land
in different parts, which may be let altogether, or sepa-
rately, 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.
To be SOLD, pursuant to an act of assembly, on Mon-
dny the 1st of August next, being Prince William
court day,
THE glebe lands of Dettingen parish, in the said
county, adjoining the lands of the present incum-
bent the reverend James Scott, situate on Quantico Run,
about 9 miles from Dumfries, and containing about 400
acres. The soil is good for wheat or tobacco, and there
may be got a considerable quantity on the same.
3 HENRY LEE,
LEWIS RENO, churchwardens.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at Goochland court-
house, on Monday the 18th of July, being court day,
A TRACT of rich, well timbered LAND, lyng
opposite to Elk Island, in Goochland county, be-
longing to the estate of Mr. John Smith, deceased, con-
taining 2000 acres, which will be put up in four separate
lots. Likewise a tract containing between 3 and 400
acres, lying on both sides of the Little Bird creek, near
the head thereof, in the aforesaid county. Those lands
having been fully described in a former advertisement
renders it unnecessary here. Then time of payment will
be made known on the day of sale, and bonds, with good
security, required of the purchasers.
9 WILLIAM ANDERSON, executor.
+++The meeting of the merchants in Williamsburg,
having prevented me from attending on the 20th of
June, it may be necessary to assure the public that the
above mentioned land will certainly be sold on the day
now appointed. The purchasers at the different sales of
the slaves and personal estates of Joseph and John Smith,
deceased, are desired to take notice, that their bonds
will carry interest from the date, if not paid by the 1st
of July, which, added to the distressed situation of those
estates, I hope, will induce them to make immediate
payment.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
THE clearing the Seven Island falls, in James river,
will be let to the lowest bidder, on the 3d Thurs-
day in August next, at which time any person inclinable
to undertake the same may depend on meeting a sufficient
number of trustees at the place, who will pay down one
half of the money, upon the undertaker’s giving bond
and security for the performance of the same.
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 situ-
ation of this places 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.
FOR SALE,
And to be ENTERED upon at CHRISTMAS next,
A VERY valuable tract of LAND in King William
county, on Pamunkey river, adjoining the land of
the late Mr. John Smith, of Hanover county, deceased,
containing 800 acres, more or less, the soil is very rich,
and exceedingly well adapted for wheat, corn, or tobacco,
particularly the first and second, being on low grounds;
and there is a considerable quantity of high grounds.
It has plenty of good pine and oak timber upon it, con-
venient houses, and is in good order for cropping, is
about two miles from Hanover town, and very convenient
to church and two mills. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may be shewn the land by applying to Mr. Christo-
pher Taliaferro, or Mr. William Jones, who resides near
the same, and the terms may be also known by applying
to these gentlemen, or to the subscriber.
t f THOMAS JONES.
To be SOLD, on the premises, on the third Thursday
in June next,
THE very profitable ORDINARY, belonging to the
subscriber, at King William courthouse, with 600
acres of very valuable LAND adjoining to it. The place
is so well known that it is unnecessary to describe it, or
to point out the advantage of its situation, which is so
central that it is daily resorted by travellers from all
parts; so that it has constant custom. The ordinary,
and some small tenements on the land, have rented for
170. A year, and are now well worth 200l. a year, or
more. The purchaser may have possession the first day
of November next, and is to pay one fifth annually after,
until the whole is satisfied. Bond, with good security,
for the payment thereof, must be given to the subscriber,
who will treat privately with any person inclined to pur-
chase before the day of sale.
JOHN QUARLES.
To be SOLD, together or in parcels,
lying in Princess Anne county, known by the name
of GIBB’S WOODS, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stands seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Person inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy, in
Williamsburg, who will give an undoubted title. tf
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately,
A TRACT of LAND containing 1300 acres, more
or less, on Pianketank river, in Gloucester county.
It is needless to be particular about it as it is the same I
advertised last year and then gave a full account of it,
since then I sold it to John Attway Clarke of Maryland,
but as he refuses to take it, necessity obliges me once more
to offer it to the public. Any person inclinable to pur-
chase may know the terms by applying to me in Mid-
dlesex. I want part of the money at the meeting of the
merchants, and for the remainder I will give reasonable
credit, tf AUGUSTINE SMITH.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox 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 wea-
ther, 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous 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
planation, 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.
I FIND it necessary to give this place this public notice, that
Jasper Mauduit Gidley was dismissed from being my
collector in September last, and that no receipts given
by the said Gidley for money on my account, since that
time, will be allowed by me; and I request the favour of
the gentlemen of the law, in the different counties, to
retain in their own hands any bonds or accounts of mine
delivered them by the said Gidley either before or after
September last, and be kind enough to let me know, by
a line, what steps they gave taken on such bonds and
accounts. THOMSIN MASON.
THE
VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 4, 1774. NUMBER 430.
OPEN TO ALL PARTIES, BUT INFLUENCED BY NONE
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.
All Persons may be supplied with the GAZETTE at 12 s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3 s. the first Week,
and 2 s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.-----PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
Mrs. RIND,
THE time is at length arrived when American liberty must
either be settled on a firm basis by the virtue and public
spirit of her sons, or sink under the arm of despotism now
suspended over her. The colonies will no doubt look upon
the violent and arbitrary proceedings of the British parliam-
ment, with regard to the Bostonians, as leveled at the
liberty of America in general, and unite their utmost endeavours by all
means in their power to prevent the ruin they are threatened with. We
shall deceive ourselves if we think Great Britain (as the present ministry
call themselves) will easily be brought to recede from her clams of do-
mination over us. The parliamentary farce will not be ended till the
virtue of America, and the cries of the British merchants and manu-
facturers, drive the present actors off the stage.
In this contention we must expect our courage and fortitude will be
put to a severe trial, and if they are not genuine, will not stand the test.
But as our ancestors have liberally shed their blood to secure to us the
rights we now contend for, surely every poser of manhood will be ex-
erted by us to deliver the deposition sacred and inviolate to our posterity.
Let no man despair of success in so just a cause. Situated as we are, if
we be united, and dare be free, no power on earth can make us slaves.
That our adversaries are powerful we fatally know; but, in a measure
so wickedly destructive of the constitutional rights of British subjects,
they cannot be united. But should they be so, are they more powerful
than the Spaniards, or we less so than the united provinces were at the
time the contest arose between those two nations on the subject of liber-
ty? Philip the second, at the head of the most powerful empire in
Europe, with the best disciplined troops, headed by one of the ablest
generals then known in the world, and supported by the riches of Ame-
rica, after a bloody war, which lasted half a century, was not able to
subvert the liberty of the poor, and till then inconsiderable, but virtuous
Hollanders. The history of our ancestors, in the last century, affords a
noble proof of firmness and patriotic virtue. In the reign of the first
Charles they evidently demonstrated, that though Englishmen may bear
much, yet when they find a determined resolution in administration to
persevere in measures totally destructive to their dearest rights, they will
rouze at last, and when that period arrives no force can withstand, no
chicanery elude, their fury; and the more they have suffered, the greater
will be the sacrifice they demand. The posterity of James the second,
fugitives in a strange land, still lament the dire effects of his encroach-
ments on English liberty.
The spirit of liberty, when conducted by public virtue, is invincible.
It may be cramped and kept down by external violence, but so long as
the morals of a people remain uncorrupted, it cannot be totally ex-
tinguished. Oppression will only increase its elastic force, and when
roused to action by some daring chief, some great good man, it will
burst forth, like fired gunpowder, and destroy all before it. Of this truth
the English history affords the clearest demonstrations, through many of
its brightest periods. We are the sons of those brave men, and let us
now prove ourselves worthy of our glorious ancestors. Britain herself
will applaud our virtue. The friends of liberty there will rejoice to ac-
knowledge us their brethren and fellow subjects; for it cannot be possible
that a race of heroes and patriots should in so short a time degenerate into
a band of robbers.
We need not, on the present occasion, shed our blood to secure our
rights, though if necessary, let us not spare it; the purchase is more
than equal to the price. Let us not buy their commodities; let us stop
all exports from this country to that till they do us justice. We have
the means of subsistence within ourselves. Nature’s wants are but few;
our imaginary ones have their foundation in luxury. Let us encourage
our own manufactures by proper subscriptions in each county; and by
wearing them ourselves, convince our enemies (for so I must call those
who endeavour to enslave us) that we can and will subsist without them.
Let gentlemen of the first rank and fortune amongst us set the example;
they will be cheerfully and eagerly followed by the inferior classes. This
will give weight to our remonstrances; and when the great disposer of all
things, the ruler of princes, shall in his mercery open the eyes of our
oppressors, and direct their councils to the pursuit of equity and right
reason, then, and not till then, let us meet and embrace them with open
arms: We will again be their children when they will deign to be our
parents. B. D.
FURTHER PROCEEDINGS of VIRGINIA.
At a meeting of the freeholders and other inhabitants of the county of
Princess Anne, on due notice given by one of the late representatives,
held at the courthouse of the aid county, on Wednesday the 27th
day of July, 1774, they, after chusing ANTHONY LAWSON, esquire,
moderator, came to the following resolutions viz.<
RESOLVED, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that it is an
absolute right inherent in every British American subject to have
and enjoy such freedoms and privileges as belong to the free people of
England, and that he cannot be taxed but by his own consent or repre
sentative.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that every attempt
to impose taxes by any other authority is a tyrannic exertion of power,
and a violation of the constitutional and just rights and liberties of the
subject; and that the acts for blocking up the harbour of Boston, for
altering the chartered constitution of the Massachusetts Bay, and for the
suppression of riots and tumults are cruel and oppressive, invasions of the
natural rights of the people of the said province as men, and of their
constitutional rights as English subjects.
Resolved, that the town of Boston and province of Massachusetts Bay
are now suffering in the common cause of America, as the said acts would
lay a foundation for the utter destruction of the rights and liberties of the
subjects of British America.
Resolved, that our burgesses be hereby instructed to use their utmost en-
deavours at the ensuing congress at Williamsburg to procure a general
allocation for stopping all importation from, and exportation to, Great
Britain, except such articles as shall be then agreed upon, as the most
effectual means to obtain redress; the non-importation and non-exportat-
tion to take place on such future day as may be agreed on by the general
congress of deputies from the several colonies.
Resolved, that our burgesses be hereby instructed to vote against every motion
or proposal for stopping the usual imports from, and exports to, the West
Indies.
Resolved, that our burgesses be instructed to oppose the importation of
slaves and convicts, as injurious to this colony, by preventing the pop-
ulations of freemen and useful manufactures.
Resolved, that it be recommended to our burgesses to vote for the en-
couragement of raising sheep, hemp, flax, and cotton.
Resolved, that our burgesses be hereby instructed to endeavour to pro-
cure a general association against trading and dealing with every colony,
province, county, or town, that shall refuse to come into the general
plan which may be adopted by the several colonies and provinces on the
continent.
Resolved, that our burgesses be hereby instructed to use their utmost
endeavours that subscriptions be opened in the several counties of this
colony, for the relief of the cruelly oppressed and distressed inhabitants of
the town of Boston.
Resolved, that our burgesses do meet the first day of August in Willi-
amsburg, to consult upon the most proper means for carrying these, or
any other resolves which may be judged more expedient, into execution.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that the general plan
adopted at the ensuing congress ought to be strictly adhered to by the
whole colony; and that this meeting will faithfully adopt such measures
as may be then agreed upon.
Resolved, that the above resolutions be printed for the perusal of the
freeholders and inhabitants of the county.
THOMAS ABBOTT, Clerk.
The above resolutions being unanimously agreed to, and signed by the
several members then present, they then repaired to a place prepared for
the occasion, and there drank the following TOASTS: 1. The king.
2. The queen and royal family. 3. A speedy and permanent reconcilia-
tion between Great Britain and her colonies. 4. A perfect union and
harmony among all the British colonies. 5. May our brethren of Boston
support themselves under their present unmerited sufferings with that
magnanimity which becomes freemen, preferring death to slavery. 6. A
speedy export to all the enemies of British America without a drawback.
7. May all enemies of America meet with a retribution due to their
demerits. 8. Lord Chatham. 9. Lord Cambden. 10. The marquis
of Rockingham. 11 Colonel Barre. 12. Mr. Edmund Burke. 13.
The bishop of St. Asoph. 14. Lord Shelburne. 15. American liberty,
16. Prosperity of Virginia.
At a meeting of the freeholders of the county of Albemarle, assem-
bled in their collective body, at the courthouse of the said county, on
the 26th day of July, 1774,
RESOLVED, that the inhabitants of the several states of British
America are subject to the laws which they adopted at their first settle-
ment, and to such others as have been since made by their respective
legislatures, duly constituted and appointed with their own consent; that
no other legislature whatever may rightfully exercise authority over them,
and that these privileges they hold as the common rights of mankind,
confirmed by the political constitutions they have respectively assumed
and also by several charters of compact from the crown.
Resolved, that these their natural and legal rights have in frequent
instances been invaded by the parliament of Great Britain, and particu-
larly that they were so by an act lately passed to take away the trade of
the inhabitants of the town of Boston, in the province of Massachusetts
Bay, that all such assumptions of unlawful power are dangerous to the
rights of the British empire in general, and should be considered as its
common cause, and that we will ever be ready to join with our fellow
subjects, in every part of the same in exerting all those rightful powers,
which God has given us, for the re-establishing and guaranteeing such
their constitutional rights, when, where, and by whomsoever invaded.
It is the opinion of this meeting, that the most eligible means of effect-
ing these purposes will be to put an immediate stop to all imports from
Great Britain (cotton, oznabrigs, striped duffil, medicines, gunpowder,
lead, books and printed papers, the necessary tools and implements for the
handicraft arts and manufactures excepted for a limited time) and to all
exports thereto after the 1st day of October, which shall be in the year
of our Lord, 1775; and immediately to discontinue all commercial inter-
course with every part of the British empire which shall not in like
manner break off their commerce with Great Britain.
It is the opinion of this meeting, that we immediately cease to import
all commodities from every part of the world which are subjected by the
British parliament to the payment of duties in America.
It is the opinion of this meeting, that these measures should be pur-
sued until a repeal be obtained of the act for blocking up the harbour of
Boston, of the acts prohibiting or restraining internal manufacturers in
America, of the acts imposing on any commodities duties to be paid in
America, and of the acts laying restrictions on the American trade; and
that on such repeal it will be reasonable to grant to our brethren of Great
Britain such privileges in commerce as may amply compensate their fra-
ternal assistance, past and future.
Resolved, however, that this meeting do submit their opinions
to the convention of deputies from the several counties of this colony,
appointed to be held at Williamsburg on the 1st day of August next, and
also to the general congress of deputies from the several American states
when and wheresoever held; and that they will concur in these or any
other measures which such convention or such congress shall adopt as most
expedient for the American good. And we do appoint THOMAS
JEFFERSON and JOHN WALKER our deputies to act for this county at
the said convention, and instruct them to conform themselves to these
our resolutions and opinions.
At a meeting for the freeholders and other inhabitants of the county of
Buckingham, at the courthouse, the 28th of July, 1774, they took
under their consideration the truly alarming state of the several British
colonies from sundry acts of parliament, which if carried into execution
must reduce the whole to an abject state of slavery, at which time they
came to the following RESOLUTIONS:
RESOLVED, that we will, at the risk of our lives and fortunes,
defend his majesty’s right and title to the crown of Great Britain and his
American dominions, against all and every person whatsoever, and that
we do acknowledge and profess all due obedience to him.
Resolved, that we will not pay any tax that is or may be laid on any
commodity whatsoever, which shall be laid by the parliament of Great
Britain for the purpose of raising a revenue in America, our own legis-
lature, with the consent of his majesty, being only legally vested with
a power of laying taxes on the inhabitants of this colony.
Resolved, that the act of parliament for blocking up the harbour of
Boston; also one other act for carrying persons to Great Britain or else-
where to be tried for sundry offences; as also the act for depriving our
sister colony of Massachusetts Bay of their charter, are unjust, arbitrary,
and unconstitutional; and that we consider an attack on the liberties of
one of our sister colonies as an attack on the whole British America.
Resolved, that manufactories ought to be encouraged in this and every
other colony, and that after a short time all importations from Great
Britain ought to be prohibited, unless the several acts of parliament,
depriving our sister colony of Massachusetts Bay of their liberties be re-
pealed; as also all such other acts of the British parliament as are or may
be intended for laying any tax on articles imported into this or any of
the colonies for the purpose of raising a revenue in America, be likewise
repealed.
Resolved, that the representatives for this county be directed to meet
the representatives of the other counties in this colony, in Williamsburg,
the first day of August next, to consult and advise on the best and most
effectual means for preserving American liberty, and that they use their
best endeavours that proper persons be appointed, on the part of this co-
lony, to meet such persons as may be appointed by the other colonies,
to consult and advise on proper measures for the good of the whole, with
all and every of which our desire is, a strict union may be established, as
the only sure and effectual means of defeating the evil intentions of a
corrupt majority in the house of commons.
Resolved, that these resolutions be sent to the public printer, and that
she be requested to publish the same.
JOHN NICHOLAS, Moderator.
At a general meeting of the freeholders of the county of Fauquier, in
Virginia, on the 9th of July, 1774, at the courthouse of the said county,
Mr. WHARTON RANSDELL being chosen moderator, the following
RESOLUTIONS were unanimously agreed to:
RESOLVED, that it is an undoubted right of British subjects, and
without which freedom cannot exist, to be taxed only by their own free
consent, either personally given, or by their representatives legally
assembled.
Resolved, that as the British subjects in America are not, and from
their situation cannot ever be, represented in the British parliament, any
act of parliament laying a tax on them is subversive of their natural
rights, and contrary to the first principles of our free constitution.
Resolved, that the act of parliament laying a duty on tea, &c. ex-
ported from Great Britain to these colonies, for the avowed purpose of
raising a revenue in America, will, if submitted to, fix a precedent,
whereby the parliamentary claim of taxing America may be established,
arbitrary power introduced, and the liberty of the British colonies laid
at the feet of a despotic and execrable minister.
Resolved, that the hostile invasion of the town and port of Boston in
New England is a dangerous attack on the liberty of the British colo-
nies in America in general, strongly tending to a dissolution of govern-
ment, and totally to alienate the affection of the colonies from the
mother country, and as our humble petitions, memorials, and remon-
strances, have hitherto failed to procure us that redress which the op-
pressions we suffer, and the justice of our cause entitles us to,
Resolved, and it is the unanimous opinion of this meeting, that till the
said act of parliament shall be repealed, and till the ships of war and troops
be withdrawn from the said town and port of Boston, and the rights
and freedom of the same be restored, all exports whatsoever from this
colony to Great Britain, and imports from thence be stopped, and that the
courts of justice ought to decline the trial of civil causes, except attach-
ments, where the attached goods are perishable, and motions against the
collectors and sheriffs for money actually in their hands.
Resolved, that any person who, contrary to the general sense of the
country, expressed by their late representative, shall purchase, vend,
of make use of tea, till such time as the act of parliament laying a duty
on that article for the purpose of raising a revenue in American shall be
repealed, shall be deemed an enemy to American liberty and the common
right of mankind, and ought to be publicly stigmatized as such.
Resolved, that the town of Boston aforesaid is now suffering in the
common cause of American liberty, and ought to be supplied with such
articles as are necessary for their support by the voluntary contribution of
the colonies in general.
Resolved, that these our sentiments be, by the moderator of this
meeting, delivered to our later representatives, who, notwithstanding they
were, by the sudden intervention of the executive power of this colony,
deprived of their legislative capacity, are still possessed of our confidence,
and desired to appear at the general meeting, at Williamsburg, on the first
day of August next, and that they be assured, in the most solemn manner,
of our hearty concurrence in, and firm support of, all such measures as
by a majority of the late representatives of this colony, then and there
to be convened, shall be thought proper and necessary for the security of
our liberty, the improvement of our manufactures, and to procure a re-
dress of American grievances. PETER GRANT, Clerk.
At a meeting of the freeholder and other inhabitants of the county
of Dunmore, held at the town of Woodstock the 16th day of June,
1774, to consider the best mode to be fallen upon to secure their liberties
and properties, and also to prevent the dangerous tendency of an act of
parliament, passed in the 14th year of his present majesty’s reign, in-
tituled an act to discontinue in such manner and for such time as are
therein mentioned the landing and discharging, lading or shipping of
goods, wares, and merchandise, at the town and within the harbour of
Boston, in the province of Massachusetts Bay, in North America, evi-
dently has to invade and deprive us of the same, the reverend Peter
Mechlenberg being voted moderator, a committee of the following gen-
tlemen, viz. the reverend Peter Mecklenberg, Francis Slaughter, Abra-
ham Bird, Taverner Beale, John Tipton, and Abraham Bowman, were
appointed to draw up resolves suitable to the same occasion, who with-
drawing, for a short time, returned with the following VOTES,
which had been previously agreed to and voted by the freeholders and in-
habitants of the country of Frederick:
I. THAT we will always chearfully pay due submission to such acts
of government as his majesty has a right, by law, to exercise over his
subjects, as sovereign to the British dominions, and to such only.
II. That it is the inherent right of British subjects and to be governed and
taxed by representative chosen by themselves only, and that every act of
the British parliament respecting the internal policy of North America
is a dangerous and unconstitutional invasion of our rights and privileges.
III. That the act of parliament above mentioned is not only itself re-
pugnant to the fundamental laws of natural justice in condemning per-
sons for a supposed crime unheard but also a despotic exertion of uncon-
stitutional power, calculated to enslave a free and loyal people.
IV> That the enforcing the execution of the said act of parliament by
a military power will have a necessary tendency to raise a civil war, there-
by dissolving that union which as so long happily subsisted between the
mother country and her colonies, and that we will most heartily and
unanimously concur with our suffering brethren of Boston, and every
other port of North America that may be the immediate victims of
tyranny, in promoting all proper measures to avert such dreadful cala-
mities, to procure a redress of our grievances, and to secure our common
liberties.
V. It is the unanimous opinion of this meeting, that a joint resolution
of all the colonies to stop all importations from Great Britain, and ex-
portations to it, till the said act be repealed, will prove the salvation of
North America and her liberties; on the other hand, if they continue
their imports and exports there is the greatest reason to fear the power
and the most odious oppression will rise triumphant over right, justice,
social happiness, and freedom.
VI. That the East India company, those servile tools of arbitrary power,
have justly forfeited the esteem and regard of all honest men, and that
the better to manifest our abhorrence of such abject compliances with the
will of a venal ministry, in ministering all in their power an encrease of
the fund of peculation, we will not purchase tea, or any other kind of
East Indian commodities, either imported now, or hereafter to be imported,
except saltpetre, spices, and medicinal drugs.
VII. That it is the opinion of this meeting, that committee ought to
be appointed for the purpose of effecting a general association, that the
same measures may be pursued through the whole continent, that the
committees ought to correspond with each other, and to meet at such
places an times as shall be agreed on, in order to form such general
association, and that when the same shall be formed and agreed on by
the several committees, we will strictly adhere to, and till the general
sense of the continent shall be know, we do pledge ourselves to each
other, and to our country, that we will inviolaably adhere to the votes
of this day.
Voted, thatt he reverend Peter Mecklenburg, Francis Slaughter,
Abraham Bird, Taverner Beale, John Tipton, and Abraham Bowman
be appointed a committee for the purpose aforesaid, and chat they or any
three of them are hereby fully empowered to act.
At a general meeting of the freeholders and inhabitants of the county
of Fairfax, at the courthouse in the town of Alexandria, on Monday the
18th day of July, 1774 GEORGE WASHINGTON esquire, chairman,
and ROBERT HARRISON, gentleman, clerk of the said meeting;
RESOLVED, that this colony and dominion of Virginia cannot be
considered a conquered country, and if it was, that the present inha-
bitants are the descendants not of the conquered, but of the conqueror;
that the same was not settled at the national expence of England, but
at the private expence of the adventurers, our ancestors, by solemn com-
pact, with and under the auspices and protection of the British crown,
upon which we ae, in every respect, as dependent as the people of Great
Britain, and in the same manner subject to all his majesty’s just, legal,
and constitutional prerogatives; that our ancestors, when they left their
native land, and settled in America, brought with them, even if the
same had not been conferred by charters, the civil constitution, and
form of government, they came from, and were by the laws of nature
and nations entitled to all its privileges, immunities, and advantages,
which have been descended to us, their posterity, and ought, of right, to be as
fully enjoyed, as if we had still continued within the realm of England.
Resolved, that the most important and valuable part of the British con-
stitution, upon which its very existence depends, is the fundamental
principle of the people’s being governed by no law to which they have
not given their consent, by representatives freely chosen by themselves,
who are affected by the laws they enact equally with their constituents,
to whom they are accountable, and whose burthens they share, in which
consists the safety and happiness of the community; for if this part of
the constitution was taken away, or materially altered, the government
must degenerate, either into an absolute and despotic monarchy, or a
tyrannical aristocracy, and the freedom of the people be annihilated.
Resolved, therefore, as the inhabitants of the American colonies are
not, and from their situation cannot, be represented in the British par-
liament, that the legislative power here can, of right, be exercised only
by our provincial assemblies, or parliaments, subject to the assent and
negative of he British crown, to be declared within some proper, limited
time; but as it was thought just and reasonable that the people of Great
Britain should reap advantages from the colonies adequate to the pro-
tection they afforded them, the British parliament have claimed and ex-
ercised the power of regulating our trade and commerce, so as to restrain
our importing from foreign countries such articles as they should furnish
us with, of their own growth and manufacture, or exporting to foreign
countries such articles and portions of our produce as Great Britain stood
in need of, for her own consumption or manufacture; such a power
directed with wisdom and moderation, seems necessary for the general good
of that great body politic, of which we are a part, although in some
degree repugnant to the principles of the constitution. Under this idea,
our ancestors submitted to it. The experience of more than a century,
during the government of his majesty’s royal predecessors, hath proved
its utility, and the reciprocal benefits flowing form it produced mutual,
uninterrupted harmony, and good will, between the inhabitants of Great
Britain and her colonies, who during that long period always considered
themselves as one and the same people, and though such a power is
capable of abuse and in some instances hath been stretched beyond the
original design and institution, yet to avoid strife and contention with
our fellow subjects, and strongly impressed with the experience of mutual
benefits, we always cheerfully acquiesced in it, while the entire regula-
tion of our internal policy, and giving and granting our own money
, were preserved to our own provincial legislatures.
Resolved, that it is the duty of these colonies, on all emergencies, to
contribute in proportion to their abilities, situation, and circumstances, to
the necessary charge of supporting and defending the British empire, of
which they are a part; that while we are treated upon an equal footing
with our fellow subjects, the motives of self interest and preservation
will be a sufficient obligation, as was evident through the course of the
last war, and that no argument can be fairly applied to the British par-
liament’s taxing us, upon a presumption that we should refuse a just and
reasonable contribution, but will equally operate in justification of the
executive power’s taxing the people of England, upon a supposition of
their representatives refusing to grant the necessary supplies.
Resolved, that the claim lately assumed and exercised by the British
parliament for making such laws as they think fit to govern the people
of these colonies, and to extort from us our money without our consent,
is not only diametrically contrary to the first principles of the constituti-
on, and the original compacts, by which we are dependent upon the British
crown and government, but is totally incompatible with the privileges of
a free people, and the natural rights of mankind will render our own
legislatures merely nominal and negatory, and is calculated to reduce us
from a state of freedom and happiness to slavery and misery.
Resolved, that taxation and representation are in their nature insepa-
rable; that the right of withholding, or of giving and granting their
own money, is the only effectual security to a free people against the
encroachments of despotism and tyranny; and that whenever they yield
the one, they must quickly fall a prey to the other.
Resolved, that the powers over the people of America, now claimed
by the British house of commons, in whose election we have no share,
in whose determinations we have no influence, whose information must
be always defective, and often false, who in many instances may have
separate, and in some an opposite interest to ours, and who are removed
from these impressions of tenderness and compassion, arising from per-
sonal intercourse and connection, which soften the rigours of the most
despotic governments, must, if continued, establish the most grievous and
intolerable species of tyranny and oppression that ever was inflicted upon
mankind.
Resolved, that it is our greatest wish and inclination, as well as inter-
est, forever to continue our connection with, and dependence upon, the
British government; but though we are its subjects, we will use every
means which Heaven hath given us to prevent our becoming its slaves.
Resolved, that there is a premeditated design and system formed and
pursued by the British ministry to introduce an arbitrary government into
his majesty’s American dominions, to which end they are artfully pre-
judicing our sovereign, and enflaming the minds of our fellow subjects in
Great Britain, by propagating the most malevolent falsehoods; particularly,
that there is an intention in the American colonies to set up for inde-
pendent states, endeavoring, at the same time, by various acts of vio-
lence and oppression, by sudden and repeated dissolutions of our assem
blies, whenever they presume to examine the illegality of ministerial
mandates, or deliberate on the violated rights of their constituents, and
by breaking in upon the American charters, to reduce us to a state of
desperation, and dissolve the original compact, by which our ancestors
bound themselves and their posterity to remain dependent upon the
British crown; which measures, unless effectually counteracted will
end in the ruin, both of Great Britain and her colonies.
Resolved, that the several acts of parliament for raising a revenue upon
the people of America without their consent, the erecting new and
dangerous jurisdiction here, the taking away our trials by juries, the
ordinary persons, upon criminal accusations, to be tried in another
country than that in which the fact is charged to have been committed,
the act inflicting ministerial vengeance upon the town of Boston, and the
two bills lately brought into parliament for abrogating the charter of the
province of Massachusetts Bay, and for the protection and encouragement
of murderers in the said province, are part of the above mentioned ini-
quitious system; that the inhabitants of the town of Boston are now
suffering in the common cause of all British America, and are justly en-
titled to its support and assistance, and therefore that a subscription ought
immediately to be opened, and proper persons appointed, in every county
in this colony, to purchase provisions, and consign them to some gentle-
ment of character in Boston, to be distributed among the poorer sort of
people there.
Resolved, that we will cordially join with our friends and brethren of
this and the other colonies in such measures as shall be judged most effect-
tual for procuring redress of our grievances, and that, upon obtaining
such redress, if the destruction of tea at Boston be regarded as an in-
vasion of private property, we shall be willing to contribute towards
paying the East India company the value; bust as we consider the said
company as the tools and instruments of oppression, in the hands of go-
vernment, and the cause of the present distress, it is the opinion of this
meeting, that the people of the colonies should forbear all further dealings
with them, by refusing to purchase any of their merchandise, until that
peace, safety, and good order, which they have disturbed, be perfectly
restored; and that all tea now in the colony, or which shall be imported
into it, shipped before the first day of September next, should be
deposited in some storehouse, to be appointed by the respective commit-
tees for each county, until a sufficient sum of money be raised, by sub-
scription, to reimburse the owners the value, and then to be publicly
burnt and destroyed; and if the same shall not be paid for, and destroyed
as aforesaid, that it remain in the custody of the said committees, at the
risk of the owners, until the act of parliament imposing a duty upon
it for raising a revenue in America be repealed, and immediately after-
wards be delivered unto the several proprietors thereof, their agents, or
attornies.
Resolved, that nothing will so much contribute to defeat the pernicious
designs of the common enemies of Great Britain and her colonies as a
firm union of the latter, who ought to regard every act of valence or
oppression inflicted upon any one of them as aimed at all; and to effect
this desirable purpose, that a congress should be appointed, to consist of
deputies from all the colonies, to concert a general and uniform plan
for the defence and preservation of our common rights, and continuing
the connections and dependence of the said colonies upon Great Britain,
under a just, lenient, permanent, and constitutional form of government.
Resolved, that our most sincere and cordial thanks be given to the
patrons and friends of liberty in Great Britain for their spirited and
patriotic conduct, in support of our constitutional rights and privileges,
and their generous efforts to prevent distress and calamity of
America.
Resolved, that every little jarring interest and dispute which hath ever
happened between these colonies should be buried in eternal oblivion;
that all manner of luxury and extravagance ought immediately to be laid
aside, as totally inconsistent with the threatening and gloomy prospect
before us; that it is the indispensable duty of all the gentlemen and men
of fortune to set examples of temperance, fortitude frugality, and in-
dustry, and give every encouragement in their power, particularly by
subscriptions and premiums, to the improvement of arts and manufactures
in America; that great care and attention should be had to the cultivation
of flax, cotton, and other manufacturers; and we recommend it to such
of the inhabitants, who have large flocks of sheep to sell to their neigh-
bours at a moderate price, as the most certain means of speedily increasing
our breed of sheep, and quantity of wool.
Resolved, that until American grievances be redressed by restoration of
our just rights and privileges, no goods or merchandise whatsoever ought
to be imported into this colony which shall be shipped from Great Britain
after the first day of September next, except linens and exceeding fifteen
pence per yard, nails, wire and wire cars, needles and pins, paper, salt-
petre, and medicines, which may be imported until the first day of Sep-
tember, 1776; and if any goods or merchandise, other than those here-
by excepted, should be shipped by Great Britain, after the time afore-
said, to this colony, that the same, immediately upon the arrival, should
be either sent back again by the owners, their agents, or attornies, or
stored and deposited in some warehouse to be appointed by the committee
for each respective e county, and there kept at the risk and charge of the
owners, to be delivered to them when a free importation of goods hither
shall again take place; and that the merchants and venders of goods
and merchandise within this colony ought not to take advantage of our
present distress, but continue to sell the goods and merchandize which
they now have, or which may be shipped to them before the first day of
September next, at the same rates and prices they have been accustomed
to do, within one year last past, and if any person shall sell such goods on
any other terms then the above expressed, that no inhabitants of this
colony should at any time forever hereafter deal with him, his agent,
factor, or storekeeper, for any commodity whatsoever.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that the merchants
and venders of goods and merchandise within this colony should take an
oath not to sell or dispose of any goods or merchandise whatsoever which
may be shipped from Great Britain after the first day of September next,
as aforesaid, except the articles before excepted, and that they will,
upon the receipt of such prohibited goods, either send the same back
again by the first opportunity, or deliver them to the committees of the
respective counties, to be deposited in some warehouse, at the risk and
charge of the owners, until they, their agents or factors, shall be per-
mitted to take them away by the said committees; and that the names
of those who shall refuse to take such oath be advertised by the respective
committees, in the several counties wherein they reside. And to the
end that the inhabitants of this colony may know what merchants and
venders of goods and merchandize shall have taken such oath, that the
respective committees should grant a certificate thereof to every such
person who shall take the same.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that during our pre-
sent difficulties and distress no slaves ought to be imported into the
British colonies on this continent; and we take this opportunity of de-
claring our most earnest wishes to see an entire stop forever put to such a
wicked, cruel, and unnatural trade.
Resolved, that no kind of lumber should be exported from this colony
to the West Indies until America be restored to her constitutional rights
and liberties, if the other colonies will accede to a like resolution, and
that it be recommended to the general congress to appoint as early as
day as possible for stopping such exports.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, if American griev-
ances be not redressed before the first day of September, 1775, that all
exports of produce from the several colonies to Great Britain should cease;
and to carry the said resolution more effectually into execution, that we
will not plant or cultivate any tobacco after the crop now growing, pro-
vided the same measures shall be adopted by the other colonies on the
on the continent, as well those who have made tobacco heretofore as those who
have not; and it is our opinion, also, if the congress of deputies from
the several colonies shall adopt the measure of not-exportation to Great-
Britain, as the people will be thereby disabled from paying their debts,
that no judgment should be rendered by the courts in the said colonies for
any debt after information of the said measures being determined upon.
Resolved, that it is the opinion of this meeting, that a solemn covenant
and association should be entered into by the inhabitants of all the colonies
upon oath that they will not, after the time which shall be respectively
agreed on at the general congress, export any manner of lumber to the
West Indies, nor any of their produce to Great Britain, or sell or dispose
of the same to any person who shall not have entered into the said cove-
nant and association, and also that they will not import or receive any
goods or merchandize which shall be shipped from Great Britain after the
first day of September next, other then the before enumerated articles,
or buy or purchase any goods, except as before excepted of any person
whatsoever, who shall not have taken the oath herein before recom-
mended to be taken by the merchants and vender of goods, nor buy or
purchase any slaves hereafter imported into any part of this continent,
until a free exportation and importation be again resolved on by a ma-
jortiy of the representatives or deputies of the colonies, and that the re-
pective committees of the counties in each colony, so soon as the cove-
nant and association shall become general, publish by advertisement, in
their several counties, a list of the names of these (if any such there shall
be) who will not accede to, that such traitors to their country may be
publicly known and detested
Resolved that It is the option of this meeting, that this and the other
associating colonies should break off all trade, intercourse, and dealings,
with that colony, province, or town, which shall decline or refuse to
agree to the plan which shall be adopted by the general congress.
Resolved, that should the town of Boston be forced to submit to the
late cruel and oppressive measures of government, that we shall not hold
the same to be binding upon us, but will notwithstanding, religiously
maintain, and inviolably adhere to, such measure as shall be concerted
by the general congress, for the preservation of our lives, liberties, and
fortunes.
Resolved, that it be recommended to the deputies of the general con-
gress, to draw up and transmit an humble and dutiful petition and re-
monstrance to his majesty, asserting, in decent firmness, our just and con-
stitutional rights and privileges, lamenting the fatal necessity of being
compelled to enter into measures disgusting to his majesty and his par-
liament, or injurious to our fellow subjects in Great Britain, declaring,
in the strongest terms, our duty and affection to his majesty’s person,
family, and government, and our desire forever to continue our depend-
ence upon Great Britain, and most humbly conjuring and beseeching his
majesty not to reduce his faithful subject of America to a state of despe-
ration, and to reflect, that from our sovereign there can be but one
appeal; and it is the opinion of this meeting, that after such petition
and remonstrance shall have been presented to his majesty, the same
should be printed in the public papers in all the principal towns in Great
Britain.
Resolved, that GEORGE WASHINGTON, esquire, and CHARLES
BROADWATER, gentleman, lately elected our representatives to serve in
the general assembly, attend the convention at Williamsburg on the first
day of August next, and present these resolves, as the sense of the people
of this county upon the measures proper to be taken in the present
alarming and dangerous situation of America.
Resolved, that George Washington, esquire, John West, George
Mason, William Rumney, William Ramsay, George Gilpton, Robert
Hanson Harrison, John Carlyle, Robert Adam, John Dalton, Philip
Payne, Martin Cockburne, Lee Massey, William Harthorne, Thomas
Triplett, Charles Alexander, Thomas Pollord, Townsend Dade, junior,
Edward Payne, Henry Gunnell, and Thomas Lewis, be a committee for
this county; that they, or a majority of them, on any emergency, have
power to call a general meeting, and to concert and adopt such measures
as may be thought most expedient and necessary.
MRS. RIND,
Please to insert in your free and impartial paper the following para
graph. Yours, &c. A LOVER OF JUSTICE.
THE public may be assured that the anonymous letters from Philadel-
phia (inserted in Mrs. Rind’s gazette of April 21, and July 28,
1774) respecting the establishment of a new American POSTOFFICE,
wherein Mr. Goddard’s character is maliciously and wantonly aspersed,
contain the grossest misrepresentations in some parts, and the most palpable
and impudent falsehoods in others, which will be made fully to appear,
whenever the writer, or his correspondent, shall have the spirit to step
forth from their dark retreat, and avow those insidious and inhuman
attempts to injure the reputation of a person who is a stranger in this
province; provided their names and characters shall appear sufficient to
gain their publications the smallest degree of credit with the candid and
virtuous part of the community; THE CONTRARY OF WHICH IS
SHREWDLY SUSPECTED.
BOSTON, AUGUST 1, 1774.
A PROCLAMATION.
AMERICA! Thou fractious nation,
Attend thy master’s proclamation!
Tremble! For know, I, Thomas G—ge,
Determin’d came, the war to wage;
With the united powers sent forth,
Of Bute, of Mansfield. and of North;
To scourge your insolence, my choice,
Whilst England mourns, and Scots rejoice!
BOSTONIA first shall feel my pow’r,
And, gasping midst the dreadful show’r
Of ministerial rage, shall cry,
”O save me Bute---I yield!”---and die---
Then shall my thund’ring cannon’s rattle,
My hardy vet’rans march to battle,
Against Virginia’s hostile land,
To humble that rebellious band.
At my approach her trembling swains
Shall quit well cultivated plains,
To seek th’ inhospitable wood,
Or try, like swine of old, the flood;
The hardy sons of Socia’s race
Shall ready fill each vacant place.
Rejoice, ye happy Scots, rejoice,
Your voice lift up, a mighty voice
The voice of gladness---On each tongue
The mighty praise of Bute be sung,
The praise of Mansfield, and of North,
Let next your hymns of joy set forth;
Nor shall the rapt’rous strain asswage,
Till sung’s your own proclaiming G—g.
Whilst ye pipes---ye drones, drone on,
Ye bellows blow! VIRGINIA’s won!
Your G—e has won VIRGINIA’S shore,
And Scocia’s sons shall mourn no more.
Hail Middlesex! O happy county!
Thou too shall share thy master’s bounty;
Thy sons obedient nought shall fear,
Thy wives and widows drop no tear;
Thy happy people ne’er shall feel
The force of unrelenting steel:
What brute wou’d give the cx a stroke
Who bends his next to meet the yoke?
To W------y bend the humble knee,
He shall protect you under me;
His gen’rous pen shall not be mute,
But sound your praise thro’ F-x to Bute.
By Scotchmen lov’d, by Scotchmen taught;
Fear Bute, fear Mansfield, North, and me,
And be as blest as slaves can be!
Mr. EDMUND BURKE’S SPEECH at the last reading of the Boston
port bill.
I TROUBLE you, sir, in the last stage of this bill, because I would
not appear purulent when my objections run to the whole of the bill. I
never knew any thing that has given me a more heart-felt sorrow than the
present measure. This bill is attempted to be hastened through the house in
such a manner that I can by no means assent to it; it is to be carried by force
and threats into execution, and you have ever refused to hear Mr. BOLLAN,
their agent, declaring him to be no agent for Massachusetts Bay, or properly
authorized to present such petition. You have not now one left in England to
be heard in behalf of the colonies; the only objection that this bill has had
has been owing to its vis intertiae; but persons who oppose this bill are imme-
diately put to the same kind of punishment in the public papers which offenders
in America are. Look, sir, into the public papers, you will see Cinna, and
a thousand other Roman names, throwing out their invectives, and tarring
and feathering all those who dare oppose the bill. I I suppose I shall reap my
share for such opposition; but, sir, at all events, I will enter my reasons and
protest against this bill, and will mount my little palfrey, and speak of the
injustice which the bill contains, with the greatest confidence. The grievance
that is stated in the papers before you on the table appear to be an universal
resistance from all America against any goods or merchandize that shall be
loaded with taxes. [He desired that part of general Haldimand’s letter,
declaring the resolution of the Americans not to submit to receive goods with
duty upon them, be read, which was done.] He said the whole meeting in
the town of Boston consisted of six or seven men of the first rank and
opulent fortune in the place, and that the proceedings were conducted with the
utmost decency. He said this was not a meeting of mean persons, but that
the acts of resistance were all countenanced by universal consent. Observe,
says he, that the disturbances are general. Shew me one port in all America
where the goods have been landed and vended; the distemper is general, but
the punishment is local, by way of exchange. Whether it will be effectual
or not, I do not know; but, sir, let me paint to this house the impropriety of
a measure like this: It is a remedy of the most uncertain operation. View
but the consequences, and you will repent the measure. Give orders at once to
your admirals to burn and destroy the town; that will be both effectual, pro-
per, and moderate, and of a piece with the rest of your proceedings, eventus
tristis. One town in proscription, the rest in rebellion, can never be a remedial
measure for general disturbances. Have you considered, says he, whether
you have troops and ships sufficient to enforce an universal proscription to the
trade of the whole continent of America? If you have not, the attempt is
childish, and the operation fruitless. Only, sir, see the consequence of blocking
up one port; for instance, that of Virginia Bay; which if you do, you will
destroy the tobacco trade, and thereby bring, as it were, a certain ruin on your
own merchants as Glasgow and Edinburgh. This bill has been thought a vigorous
but not a rigorous punishment. It is my opinion that you might even punish the
individuals who committed the violence without involving the innocent. I
should approve of that; but, sir, to take away the trade from the town
of Boston, is surely a severe punishment. Would it not be a rigorous measure
to take away the trade of the Thames, for instance, and direct the merchandize
to be landed at Gravesend? I call this bill very unjust that is now to be adopt-
ed. Is it not fundamentally unjust to prevent the parties who have offended
beign hears in their defence? Justice, sir is not to be measured by geographi-
cal lines nor distance. Every man, sir is authorized to be a magistrate, to
put a stop to disturbances which he perceives to be committed against his ma-
jesty’s peace; but did you expect that the people who were not present at such
disturbances should be equally punished for not aiding and assisting in putting an
end to those riots which they never saw or heard of? This, sir, says he, is
surely a doctrine of Devils, to require men to be present in every part of Ame-
rica wherever a riot happens; but this bill involves those who have never
in the least been guilty. And then, you again say, that the disturbances which
did happen ought to have been immediately put a stop to by the people of Bo-
ston, and that they were bound to preserve the good order of the town. But,
sir, I have too much reverence for the image of God to conceive that the be-
nourable gentleman (Mr. Welbore Ellis) does really and truly imbibe such
doctrine. [He then read part of colonel Leslie’s letter, No 45, wherein the
colonel said that neither the governor nor the council, nor any of the custom-
house officers, have ever yet applied to me for any assistance; if they had, I
could almost certainly have put a stop to all their riots and violences, but not
without some bloodshed, and firing upon their town, and killing many inno-
cent people.] Why, sir, says he, did not the governor at once send for this
assistance? Was it contrary to, or do you think he would have broken through,
the public peace, and prevent violences from being committed? The
fault of this governor ought not to be the means of punishment for the innocent.
You have found that there was no government there. Why did not the go-
vernor exercise his authority? Why did not the ships execute their duty? What
was the reason they did not act? Why is not Mr. Hancock, and the chief
people who are known, punished, and not involve the innocent with the guilty
in one universal calamity? You, surely, sir, cannot have power to take
away the trade of a port, and call it privilege! Why was not your force
that was present applied to quell the disturbances? How come they to be so
feeble and inactive? How are you sure that the orders and frigates which you
now send will act better? I cannot think this, by any means, a prudent [faded, illegible]
sure, to be blocking up one port after another. The consequence will be
dreadful, and, I am afraid, destructive. You will draw a foreign force
upon you, perhaps at a time when you little suspect it. I will not say where
that will end; I will be silent on that head, and go no farther, but think of
the consequence. Again, sir, in one of the clauses of the bill, you proscribe
the property of the people, to be governed and measured by the will of the
crown. This is a ruinous and dangerous principle to adopt. There is an uni-
versal discontent throughout all America, from an internal bad government.
There are but two ways to govern America, either to make it subservient to
all your laws, or to let it govern itself by its own internal policy. I abhor
the measure of taxation, where it is only for a quarrel, and not for a revenue;
a measure that is teasing and irritating without any good effect; but a revi-
sion of this question will one day or other come, wherein I hope to give my opi-
nion. But this is the day that you wish to go to war with all America, in
order to conciliate that country to this, and to say that America shall be obedient
to all the laws of this country. I wish to see a new regulation and plan of a
new legislation in that country, not founded on your laws and statues here,
but grounded upon the vital principles of English liberty.
FREDERICK county July 23, 1774.
YESTERDAY being the day appointed by our sheriff for the
election of burgesses, a great part of the county assembled at
Winchester, amongst whom it was unanimously agreed, to shew their
detestation to the presumption of the g-----r of Massachusetts Bay,
that his effigy should be first hanged, and then suffer the flames, accom-
panied by his darling proclamation. An image was fabricated truly like
him, as he must appear to the mind’s eye of every American, grim as
Pluto, and deformed as Vulcan. It was decorated with a soldier’s coat,
a grenadier’s cap, and a wooden sword; emblems I need not explain.
Thus accosted, with a rope round his neck, in the fatal cart, support-
ed by an African (for the general’s spirits were so depressed, that it was
with difficulty he could hold up his head) he was conducted through the
town, attended by a rejoicing multitude, and then suspended on the
highest gallows an American g------r was ever yet honored with. The
proclamation was read by Mr. A. White, attorney at law, who made a
very spirted and handsome speech to the people, exhorting them to be
unanimous, as the certain means to preserve their liberties. The torch
was then applied, and the flame, as if pleased to destroy the base destroy-
er of liberty, embraced him with uncommon ardour, and devoured him
in an instant.
BOSTON, JULY 18.
THE inhabitants of Charlestown, South Carolina, have sent about
200 tierces of rice for the poor of this town, who are sufferers by
the Boston port bill, which arrived at Salem last Monday.
Captain William Davis, arrived at Plymouth from St. Ubes, in a short
passage, informs, that advice was received there of the death of the
French king, and also of the kind of Prussia, and that a French fleet had
sailed from Brest to assist the Turks against the Russians.
Friday last a number of public spirited gentlemen at Marblehead, raised
subscriptions for 207 quintals of cod fish, about 50 jars of oyl, and 40l.
lawful in specie, for the use of the industrious poor of this town, at this
critical conjuncture of our public affairs, which is to be forwarded to-
morrow if the weather permits.
By accounts from the north and south, east and west, of this province,
the non-consumption agreement is come into scarce a dissentient in
many towns.
Large orders for fall goods have been countermanded, occasioned by the
non-consumption agreements.
It is with the greatest pleasure we can inform the public, that the
honourable John Hancock has so far recovered his health as to be able to
walk abroad, and yesterday attended divine service at the reverend doctor
Cooper’s church.
By his excellency the honourable THOMAS GAGE, general and com-
mander in chief or all his majesty’s forces in North America, &c &c.
WHEREAS some soldiers have deserted his majesty’s service, be-
longing to the regiments lately arrived from Great Britain and Ireland,
this is to give notice, that all soldiers who deserted from the said corps,
previous to the 10th day of this instant (July) shall receive their pardons,
upon surrendering themselves before or on the tenth day of August next
ensuing; and on failure of so doing, they are not to expect mercy.
GIVEN under my hand, at Head Quarters, at Boston this 15th day of
July, 1774. T .GAGE.
By his excellency’s command, GAB. MATURIN, secretary.
Thursday last three transports arrived here from Boston; they are now
taking in ordinance, and a proportion of military stores, among which are
500 barrels of gunpowder, and, we hear, the Royal Welch Fuzileers,
now here, are to embark this week.
Captain Maitland, of the ship Magna Charta, has brought over a
quantity of tea to Charlestown, South Carolina; but as the persons to
whom it was consigned refused to receive it, the captain, we are in-
formed, proposed to carry it back with him to London. From the same
place we are informed that a second present of rice from the gentlemen
of that province to the indigent sufferers at Boston is preparing to be sent
to that port.
PHILADELPHIA, JULY 26.
AT a provincial meeting of deputies chosen by the several counties
in Pennsylvania, held at Philadelphia, July 15, 1774, and con-
tinued by adjournments from day to day; agreed, that in case of any
difference in sentiment, the question be determined by the deputies voting
by counties. The letters from Boston of the 13th of May were then
read, and a short account given of the steps taken in consequence thereof,
and the measures now pursuing in this and the neighboring provinces;
after which the following resolves were passed:
Unan. I. THAT we acknowledge ourselves, and the inhabitants of
this province, liege subjects of his majesty king George the third, to
whom they and we owe and will bear true and faithful allegiance.
Unan. II. That as the idea of an unconstitutional independence on
the parent state is utterly abhorrent to our principles, we view the un-
happy differences between Great Britain and the colonies with the deep-
est distress and anxiety of mind, as fruitless to her, grievous to us, and
destructive of the best interest of both
Unan. III, That it is therefore the ardent desire that our antient
harmony with the mother country should be restored, and a perpetual
love and union subsist between us, on the principles of the constitution,
and an interchange of good offices, without the least infraction of our
mutual rights,
Unan. IV. That the inhabitants of these colonies are entitled to the
same rights and liberties within these colonies, that the subjects born
in England are entitled to within that realm.
Unan. V. That the power assumed by the parliament of Great Bri-
tain to bind the people of these colonies, “by statues in all cases what-
soever,” is unconstitutional, and therefore the source of these unhappy
differences.
Unan. VI. That the act of parliament for shutting up the port of
Boston is unconstitutional, oppressive to the inhabitants of that town,
dangerous to the liberties of the British colonies, and therefore, that we
consider our brethren at Boston as suffering in the common cause of these
colonies.
Unan. VII. That the bill for altering the administration of justice in
certain criminal cases within the province of Massachusetts Bay, if passed
into an act of parliament, will be as unconstitutional, oppressive, and
dangerous, as the act above mentioned,
Unan. VIII. That the bill for changing the constitution of the pro-
vince of Massachusetts Bay, established by charter, and enjoyed since the
grant of that charter, is passed into an act of parliament, will be uncon-
stitutional and dangerous in it is consequences to the American colonies.
Unan. IX. That there is an absolute necessity that a congress of depu-
ties from the several colonies be immediately assembled, to consult to-
gether, and form a general plan of conduct to be observed by all the col-
lonies, for the purposes of procuring relief for our suffering brethren,
obtaining redress of our grievances, preventing future dissentions, firmly
establishing our rights, and restoring harmony between Great Britain and
her colonies on a constitutional foundation.
Unan. X. That although a suspension of the commerce of this large
trading province with Great Britain would greatly distress multitudes of
our industrious inhabitants, yet that sacrifice, and a much greater, we
are ready to offer for the preservation of our liberties; but, in tenderness
to the people of Great Britain, as well as of this country, and in hopes
that our just remonstrances will, at length, reach the ears of our gracious
sovereign, and be no longer treated with contempt by any of our fellow
subjects in England, it is our earnest desire that the congress should first
try the gentler mode of stating our grievances, and making a firm and
decent claim of redress.
XI. Resolved, by a great majority, that yet, notwithstanding, as an
unanimity of councils and measures is indispensably necessary for the com-
mon welfare, if the congress shall judge agreements of non-importation
and non-exportation expedient, the people of this province will join with
the other principal and neighbouring colonies in such an association of
non-importation from and non-exportation to Great Britain, as shall be
agreed on at the congress.
XII.Resol. by a majority, that if any proceedings of the parliament, of
which notice shall be received on this continent, before or at the general
congress, shall render it necessary in the opinion of that congress, for the
colonies to take farther steps than are mentioned in the 11th resolve; in
such case the inhabitants of this province shall adopt such farther steps,
and do all in their power to carry them into execution.
Unan. XIII. That the venders of merchandise of every kind, within
this province, ought not to take advantage of the resolves relating to
non-importation in this province or else where; but that they ought to
sell their merchandise which they now have, or may hereafter import,
at the same rates they have been accustomed to do within three months
last past.
Unan. XIV. That the people of this province will break off all trade,
commerce, and dealing , and will have no trade, or dealing of
any kind with any colony on this continent, or with any city or town,
which shall refuse, decline, or neglect to adopt, and carry into execution,
such general plan as shall be agreed to in in congress.
Unan. XV. That it is the duty of every member of this committee
to promote, as much as he can, the subscription set on foot, in the seve-
ral counties of this province, for the relief of the distressed inhabitants
of Boston.
Unan. XVI. That this committee give instructions on the present
situation of public affairs to their representatives, who are to meet next
week in assembly, and request them to appoint a proper number of persons
to attend a congress of deputies from the several colonies, at such time
and place as may be agreed on, to effect one general plan of conduct, for
attaining the great and important ends mentioned in the ninth resolve.
That John Dickinson, Doctor William Smith, Joseph Reed, John
Kidd, Elisha Price, William Atlee, James Smith, James Wilson,
Daniel Broadhead, John Okely, and William Scull, be appointed to
prepare and bring in a draught of instructions.
The remainder of the Philadelphia proceedings in our next; also those
of New Jersey, New York, and South Carolina.)
WILLIAMSBURG, AUGUST 4.
ON Monday last, agreeable to appointment, the general meeting of
the late representatives of this colony was held at the Capitol in
this city, to deliberate and consult upon the most effectual measures to
be taken to relieve American from her present distressed situation. But
as they still continue sitting, it is out of our power to oblige the public
with a particular relation of what has been done until next week,
when we hope to publish all their proceedings, which we doubt not will
be highly satisfactory to all the colonies.
A letter just received in this city from Boston, says, that the Bostoni-
ans have come into resolutions not to import or export any commodities
whatever after the 31st of this instant; and also, that they will not
purchase goods of any person without oath being first made that they
were engaged before this plan was adopted. This letter concludes, that
four regiments are now on the common, and more are daily expected.
The Northumberland, Orange, King George, Amelia, Frederick,
Lancaster, Mecklenburg, Lunenburg, Accomack, King William, War-
wick, and a few other resolves, we have received, but could not possibly
insert them. They promise the greatest loyalty and affection towards his
majesty, but at the same time, are spirited and determined in the pursuit
of their just rights and privileges.
Mr. Jacob Belcher, at Cabin Point, and Mr. Faulcon at Cobham, are
kind enough to provide store rooms for the reception of any commodities
for the use of Boston,
A few days ago a fire happened at the governor’s farm, near this city,
which entirely consumed a kitchen, and another out house; two or
three people narrowly escaped the flames.
Last Wednesday 300 stand of arms, with the proper accoutrements, were
sent from this city to his excellency lord Dunmore, now at Winchester,
agreeable to his order.
FRIDAY, Agust 5. This day Peyton Randolph, esquire, moderator,
of the present general meeting, Richard Henry Lee, George Washing-
ton, Patrick Henry, Richard Bland, Benjamin Harrison, and Edmund
Pendleton, esquires, were appointed to attend the general congress, on
behalf of this colony, on the 1st of next month, in Lancaster town, in
Pennsylvania,
To be SOLD, at Rockit’s landing, near the FALLS of
JAMES RIVER,
ANY QUANTITY OF
PIT COAL,
For 10d. per bushel, ready money, or 12d (that being
the usual price) on credit, provided any good merchant,
in Richmond or Manchester towns will undertake to see
the money paid in a reasonable time.
3 SAMUEL DUVAL
SWAN’S POINT, August 3, 1774.
AGREEABLE to the wish of many gentlemen(my friends) I have
rented the houses, &c. at colonel Blond’s mill, in Prince George,,>
and intend (God willing) to open TAVERN there on the 1st day of
January next. I have contracted, that the houses shall be in good re-
pair, and furnished with a good stable, &c. and I have an extensive ac-
quaintance with gentlemen that travel that way, I shall hope for small
favours, when convenient, and will endeavor to deserve them. Many
small debts are due me for ferriage, &.c. at this place, which would be
of infinite service in my present circumstances, and I hope they will be
discharged before my departure; nor shall I have inclination to keep such
accounts in future.
(2) THOMS FENNER,
PURSUANT to an order of Amberst court, will be let, to the lowest
bidder, at the courthouse of the said county, on the first
Mondayin November next, being court day, the building of a PRISON, 37 by
22, the walls of which to be of brick and timber, 3 feet thick, to be
9 feet pitch in the clear, and to have a brick roof; a plan of which will
be shewn, and a more particular description given, on the day. Bond
and approved security will be required of the undertaker for his perform-
ance of the same.
WILLIAM CABELL,
COR. THOMAS,,
(3)AMROSE RUCKER.
NORFOLK, July 30, 1774,
WANTED, for Elizabeth River parish, a CLERK. As the
emoluments arising from the said parish are very considerable,
none need apply unless he produces a recommendation of his good cha-
racter, who can read tolerably, and perform psalmody well.
(3) THOMAS DAVIS, MINISTER.
NORFOLK, July 30, 1774.
THE DUMFRIES JOCKEY CLUB PURSE of the 100 GUINEAS
is to be run for on Tuesday the 15th of NOVEMBER next, which is
fixed on for the first day of the Dumfries races for this year. NO person
will be allowed to start a horse, mare, or gelding, for this purse, but an
actual member of the club. There will be a SUBCRIPTION
PURSE run for the second day, and another the third day, of the
races. The particulars with regard to them will be advertised hereafter,
A premium of five GUINEAS will be given to the person or per-
sons that brings the six largest and fattest muttons; and a premium to
the person or persons that brings the two largest and fattest veals.
4 RICHARD GRAHAM, SECRETARY,
NORFOLK, July 30, 1774.
I SHALL leave this colony in a few weeks.
JOHN BRUCE.
**The school kept here for some years past by Mr. Bruce will be
continued, to its usual extent, by Mr. Stevenson. The debts that shall
become due to the said school in Mr. Bruce’s absence will be collected by
Mr. James Ingram his attorney, to whom such as intend to enter any
new, or withdraw any of the present members, will be pleased to make
known their intentions. (3)
THERE is now in my possession FOUR BALES of SAIL CANVAS,
marked G N I, NO, 114, shipped at Liverpool by one Mr. Baines
and to be delivered to some gentleman in Norfolk. As no bill of lading
was signed for them, the gentleman who has a right to receive the four
bales must pay the craft hire, storage, and the expence of twice adver-
tising in this paper. 3 ISSAC YOUNGHUSBAND.
A STOCKING WEAVER, who understands his business well, and
is willing to carry it on in Norfolk,<.em> may be supplied with a
LOOM for weaving coarse stockings, without any expence for the use of
it, and will meet with great encouragement from the inhabitants. For
the loom apply to (3) JAMES HOLT.
THE PURSE of FIFTY POUNDS, to be run for at Aquia, in
Staffordcounty, on the 2d Thursdya in September, is still conti-
ued. (2)
YORK county, to wit.
WHEREAS Peter Pelham hath informed me, one of his majesty’s
justices for the country aforesaid, that JOHN GORDON, WIL-
LIAM MOORE, and CHRISTOPHER WISECARVER, who were
committed on suspicion of felony, did, on the night of the 24th instant,
break out of and make their escape from the public gaol, I have there-
fore thought fit to issue this warrant, hereby, in his majesty’s name,
strictly commanding all sheriffs, constables, and other his majesty’s liege
subjects, to make diligent search and pursuit after the said felons, and
them, or either of them, having found, to convey them to the keeper
of the public gaol. Gordon is about 6 feet high, had on a light blue coat,
and striped waistcoat, has long hair tied behind, and is about 24 or 25
years old; from Prince Edward, for horsestealing. Moore is about 5
feet 6 inches high, had on a light coloured coat, has short red hair, ap-
pears to be about 22 years old, and has two biles upon one of his wrists;
from Charlotte, for robbery. Wiseacre is about 5 feet 5 or 6 inches high,
a young man, with short black hair, much pitted with the smallpox, and
dressed in oznabrigs; from Dunmore, for murder.
Given under my hand and seal, this 25th day of July, 1774.
JOSEPH HORNSBY.
**Those who are aiding and assisting in re-taking and conveying to
the public gaol the aforesaid John Gordon, William Moore, and Christopher
Wiseacre, shall be amply rewarded for their trouble.
To be SOLD, on Friday the 2d of September, as the late dwelling house of
Mr. Thomas Tinsley, deceased, in Hanover towne,
NINE very valuable SLAVES, together with all his personal estate,
consisting of every kind of useful and fashionable HOUDSEHOLD
and KITCHEN FURNITURE, a valuable stock of CATTLE, HOGS,
HORSES, and SHEEP. At the same time will be rented, the LOT
and HOUSES thereon, being a dwellinghouse, smokehouse, dairy, kit-
chen, stable, billiard house, two very good shops, and garden well paled
in. The buildings are all in good repair, and remarkably well calculated
for keeping tavern. Twelve months credit will be allowed for all sums
above twenty five shillings, on giving bond, with approved security, to
the subscriber; who requests the favour of all persons indebted to the
estate to make speedy payments; and those who have any demands
against it are desired to make them known, without delay, to Leighton
Wood, junior, who is empowered to adjust the same. All debts not
punctually discharged are to carry interest from the date of the bonds.
AGNESS TINSLEY, Administratrix.
To be SOLD, by the subscriber, in Brunswick county,
A TRACT of LAND, containing 900 acres, on which are two
plantations in good order for cropping, with several valuable im-
provements thereon; the quality of the land is exceeding good for grain.
Credit will be given for one moiety of the sale of it for a considerable
time, the purchaser giving bond, with approved security. If the land
is not sold before the last Friday in October next at private sale, it will
then be exposed to public sale, in order to enable me to discharge my
engagements with my creditors. Any person, inclinable to treat for the
same may know the terms by applying to the subscriber on the premises.
3 CHRISTOPHER MASON.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, at WESTBURY, the seat of the late
colonel Littlebury Cocke, in Charles City, on Thursday the 25th of
August next, of fair, if not the next fair day,
TEN likely Virginia born SLAVES consisting of men, women, and
children, one of which is a very good HOUSECARPENTER;
also stocks of cattle, horses, hogs, and sheep, and sundry household and
kitchen furniture, belonging to the estate of the said Littlebury Cocke.
One or two of the slaves will be sold for ready money, and six months
credit allowed for the remainder, on giving bond, with approved security,
to carry interest from the date, if not punctually paid. All persons hav-
ing demands against the said estate are desired to attend the sale with their
several claims, properly authenticated.
WILLIAM EDLOE,
tdf WILLIAM GREEN MUNFORD.
THE subscriber intends to leave Petersburg about the 1st of September,
and as he has several WATCHES belonging to different people in
his custody, will be much obliged to the proprietors to call for them as
soon as possible, otherwise I propose taking them away with me.
(3) WILLIAM BATHGATE.
STRAYED or stolen from the subscriber’s plantation, near WIilliams-
burg, about 10 days ago, a roan mare, about 14 hands high, with
a switch tail, paces slow, and has the usual marks of a work beast; her
brand, if any, is forgot. Whoever brings her to the subscriber, or to
Mr. William Douglas, at Providence forge, (where she belongs,) shall have
TWENTY SHILLINGS reward, and if stolen, FIVE POUNDS, on
conviction of the thief. 3 WILLIAM HOLT.
TEN POUNDS REWARD.
RUN away, from Baltimore, SAMUEL POWIS, a tailor and stay-
maker, born in the west of England, speaks broad, is a small man,
about 40 years of age, and wears short brown hair; had on a white
Welch cotton coat with a falling collar and short skirts, a dark wilton
jacket, linen breeches, and small old shoes, with nails in the heels. His
other cloaths unknown. He took with him a country made sickle,
stamped Hews. EDWARD WILLIAMS, a stout, down looking fel-
low, of a brown complexion, born in Wales, and speaks on the Welch
dialect, has short brown hair, and is about 30 years of age; he took with
him a new bed tick, a light coloured superfine broadcloth coat, which is
too small for him, a dark coloured cloth coat trimmed with brass but-
tons and brown binding, a brown broadcloth jacket, a green birdeyed
ditto, several pair of coarse grey stockings, a new felt hat, sundry knives,
buckles, buttons, &c. some store goods, unknown, and a silver watch,
the winding chain of which is broke. Whoever secures the said servants
shall have 40s. for each or either of them, and if taken up 50 miles off
and brought home 5l. for each, and all reasonable charges paid. All
persons are forewarned taking them out of the colony,
* ABRAHAM JARRETT,
RUN away from the subscriber, in Faquier county, near the court-
house, two servant men, born in England; one of them is
named THOMAS BOYCE, between 30 and 40 years of age, of a dark
complexion, black hair, black eyes, and much pitted with the smallpox,
about 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, and middling well made; had on,
and took with him, a brown shirt, brown linen trowsers, a fine hat half
worn, check shirt, old brown coat, the skirts of which not hemmed, and
has an indenture of John Steel’s, with a discharge on the back of it
and signed by me; therefore, in all probability, will endeavour to pass
as a free man. The other is named THOMAS GOODE, an indentured
servant, who has, I understand, forged himself a discharge in captain
Robinson’s name, about 20 years of age, middling tall, has a pleasant
countenance, dark eyes and hair, and has a very clumsy way of walking;
had on a brown lined shirt and trousers, English made shoes, an old
coarse hat trimmed round the brim, and a short striped jacket with sleeves.
Whoever will deliver me both the above mentioned servants shall have
FIVE POUNDS, or FIFTY SHILLINGS for either, if taken in the
colony, and if in any other, reasonable satisfaction shall be made. I
forewarn all masters of vessels and others from taking them on board
their vessels, or carrying them out of the colony.
WILLIAM SETTLE.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Amherst, the 10th of July, a
mulatto woman slave named SALL, though commonly goes by the
name of SALLY GREY; she is of the middle size, well shaped, Vir-
ginia born, about 25 years old, and had on a brown linen jacket and pet-
ticoat; I cannot learn that she carried any other clothes with her, She
is of a numerous family of mulattoes, and formerly belonged to a gen-
tleman of the name of Howard, in York county, from whence I pur-
chased her a few years ago, and where probably she may attempt to go
again, or perhaps into Cumberland orAmelia,, where, I am informed,
many of her kindred live. I shall esteem it as a particular favour of those
gentlemen who have of her relations in their possession to have her ap-
prehended, should she be lurking about their plantations; and I will give
a handsome reward, besides what the law allows, to any person who shall
deliver her to me. 6 GABRIEL PENN.
COMMITTED to the gaol of Middlesex a negro man slave, who says
he belongs to Mr. Benjamin Grymes, of Spotsylvania; he appears to
be between 30 and 40 years of age, and is about 5 feet 6 inches high.
The owner is desired to take him away, and pay charges.
JOHN CRAINE, Gaoler.
TAKEN up, in Cumberland, a dark bay horse, about 4 feet 6 inches
high, with a star in his forehead, branded on the near shoulder EM,
and on the near buttock D, has a large scar under his tail, about 23
years old, and had a bell on. Posted, and appraised to 4l.
() JOSEPH HARRIS.
TAKEN up, in Albermarle, near the Piney mountains, a SORREL
MARE, much mixed with white hairs, paces and trots, has a
star in her forehead, a snip on her nose, some saddle spots, and branded
on the rear shoulder IP; also a sorrel horse colt, supposed to be four
months old, paces and trots, has a star in his forehead, and a snip on
his nose. They are posted, and appraised to 7l. 10s.
() WILLIAM DOWELL.
TAKEN up, in Culpepper, a chestnut sorrel mare, about 10 years old,
4 feet 7 inches and a half high, branded on the near shoulder IP, has
a star in her forehead, a small snip on her nose, some white hairs on the
root of her tail, and some saddle spots on her back. Posted, and ap-
raised to 10l. () AMBROSE POWELL.
TAKEN up, in Louisa, a bay horse, about 4 feet 7 inches high, 4
years old, docked and branded on the near buttock. D. Posted, and
appraised to 12l. () JOHN LIPSCOMB.
TAKEN up, in Culpepper, a bay mare, 4 feet 3 inches and a half high,
branded on the near shoulder N. and on the near buttock with a
blotch, paces slow, and appears to be about 8 or 9 years old. Posted,
and appraised to 7l. () ZACHARIAH GIBBS,
TAKEN up, in Orange, a large red and white steer, is old, and ap-
pears to have been worked, marked with a slit and underkeel in his
right ear, and there appears to have been a hole at the bottom of the
slip, and has an overkeel in the left. Posted, and appraised to 4l. 10s.
() WILLIAM CAVE.
TAKEN up, in Orange, a black horse, about 15 years old, branded
on the near buttock ), and on the far shoulder with a W and a V
joined in each other, about 4 feet 7 or 8 inches high, has several saddle
spots, and a small star in his forehead. Posted, and appraised to 8l.
() JOHN SNELL, junior.
TAKEN up, in the lower end of Amelia, a middle sized pale red cow,
about 7 or 8years old, marked with a crop and underkeel in the
left ear, and a slit in the right; she has a calf with her. Posted, and
appraised to 2l. 10s. () LAWRENCE WILLS.
TAKEN up, in Amerlia, on Sandy Creek,<.em> near Appamattoxriver, a
dark red steer rather inclined to a brindle, with a white face, and
a white streak along his back, 4 feet 2 inches high, a crop and two un-
derkeels in the left ear, and a crop and one underkeel in the right; he
appears as if he had been worked. Pasted, and appraised to 4l.
() JOHN CHAPMAN.
TAKEN up, in Elizabeth City, a small bay mare colt, neither docked
nor branded. Posted, and appraised to 1l. 10s.
() WILLIAM POOL.
TAKEN up, in Amherst, a black mare, about 4 feet 4 inches high,
8 or 9 years old, with a star in her forehead, some saddle spots on
her back, and had on a large bell. Posted, and appraised to 6l.
() JOHN SANDIDGE.
TAKEN up, in Mecklenburg, a grey mare, about 4 or 5 inches high,
docked, but not branded, has a saddle spot on the off side, and
about 5 years old. () THOMAS MOORE.
TAKEN up, in Culpepper, a red cow, with a white face, not marked,
and about 7 years old; also a steer, about 3 years old, with an un-
derkeel in the right ear, and crop, slit, and underkeel, in the left.
Posted, and appraised, the cow to 2l. 10s. and the steer to 1l. 5s.
() JACOB RIFFY.
TAKEN up, in Culpepper,<.em> a dark bay horse, 14 hands and a half high,
branded on the near buttock IG, has a ridged mane, some saddle
spots on the back, paces and is about 12 years old. Posted, and ap-
praised to 12l. () JOHN WHITESIDES.
TAKEN up, in Halifax on Staunton river, a chestnut sorrel horse,
with a blaze in his face, two of his fore, and one of his hind legs
white, as high as his knees, branded on the near shoulder MG, has a
hanging mane and switch tail, and appears to ne about 8 or 9 years old.
Posted, an appraised to 1l. () WILLIAM EMBRY
TAKEN up, in Caroline, an unmarked heifer; she has some white
under her belly. Posted, and appraised to 1l.
() WILLIAM KIDD,
FOR SALE.
TWO thousand ACRES of exceeding fine LAND for tobacco,
wheat, or Indian corn, lying on both sides of Bull Run, in Loudoun
and Prince William, about 300 acres of which are rich low ground and
meadow land. It lies within four miles of two merchant mills, and
about ten miles of two other merchant mills in Loudoun; thirty miles
from Colchester, Alexandria, and Dumfries. If any person or persons in-
cline to purchase the whole, or any part of the said lands, they may be
shewn them, and know the terms, by applying to captain Francis Peyton,
in Loudoun county, who has full power to treat for the same, or to the
subscriber. It is laid off in lots of two, three, and four hundred acres,
with an equal quantity of low ground and meadow land to each lot.
1 m tf) ROBERT BURWELL.
PORTSMOUTH, July 5, 1774.
A PURSE of 100 guineas to be run for by any horse, mare, or
gelding, over the two mile course at this place, the best two heats
in three, on Tuesday the 20th of September, carrying weight for age,
agreeable to the articles of the said purse, which are to be seen in the
hands of Mr. Richard Nestor, merchant there, with whom all horses
starting for the said purse are to be entered, the day before the race at
farthest. The money to be paid to the winner immediately after the
race, It is also proposed to have two more races, one on the Wednesday
following for 50l. the other on Thursday, for 30l. which will be adver-
tised particularly, as soon as the subscriptions are full.
YORK TOWN, July 27, 1774,
MY mulatto fellow CORNELIUS ran away from this town about
5 weeks ago; he was apprehended at Fredericksburg, brought
here and imprisoned, and last night broke gaol. While he continued at
Fredericksburg unmolested, he passed for a free man. His wife, a mulatto,
was in company with him; both were considered as free people, and
hired in the harvest by some planters. Their scheme was to get money,
and to proceed back upon the frontiers of Virginia. Whoever apprehends
the mulatto fellow in this colony, and delivers him tot me, will be en-
titled to a reward of FIVE POUNDS, and if take in another colony, and secured
in any of the county gaols here, SIX POUNDS.
JOHN H. NORTON.
**The fellow is middle sized; he carried with him a russia drill
postilion coat and waistcoat, and an old blue livery cloth suit.
RUN away on the 10th instant (July) from the subscriber, living
at Aquia, in Stafford, a convict servant man named ROBERT
RIVERS, about 5 feet 4 or 5 inches high, has black hair, and a swarthy
complexion; had on a felt hat almost new, a brown Newmarket coat and
waistcoat, check shirt, brown linen trowsers, cotton breeches, and old
shoes. He is by trade a shoemaker. Whoever takes up the said servant,
and secures him so that I get him again, shall have TEN DOLLARS
reward, and reasonable charges allowed. JAMES HOLLAWAY.
COMMITTED to the gaol of Prince George a negro man who says
he belongs to one Gibson in Suffolk,and was sent up the river to
be sold, at which time he run away. He appears to be about 35 years
of age, is well made, and has on an oznabrig shirt and towsers; he is
about 5 feet 10 inches high. Whoever owns the said negro is desired to
apply for him, and take him away, after proving his property, and pay-
ing charges. () HENRY BATTE,
COMMITTEED to Dinwiddie gaol, two negro men, who cannot, or
will not, tell their masters names. They have on oxnabrig shirts,
sailors jackets, and cotton breeches; one has a short petticoat over his
breeches, the other calls himself JEMMY, is very black, and much
pitted with the smallpox. The owners are desired to apply for them.
() MATTHEW MAYES.
RUN away from the subscriber, in Orange, a convict man named
HENRY HURST, about 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, of a fair
complexion, and a little pitted with the smallpox, has black hair, grey
eyes, and stammers much when frightened; had on a check shirt, with
a brown one over it, a white dimity waistcoat, and oznabrig trowsers.
I will give FORTY SHILLINGS, besides what the law allows, to
whoever will secure him in any gaol, so that I may get him; and if
brought home, will allow all reasonable charges. All matters of vessels
are forewarned from carrying him out of the colony.
(1) THOMAS ROBINS.
STRAYED from the subscriber the 12th of May last a yellowish bay
mare, with a blaze face, near 11 hands high, and had a star on her off
side. As she was bred in Prince Edward county, she will probably en-
deavour to return there. Whoever brings the said mare to me, in Rich-
mond town, shall be well rewarded. 2 JAMES BUCHANAN.
TO BE RENTED,
From year to year, or for a term of years, and entered upon the first day of
September next,
A CONVENIENT TENEMENT in the town of Petersburg,
at present in the possession of Mr. Andrew Johnston, whereon is a
commodious storehouse, with a large counting room, and lodging rooms
under the same roof, lumber houses of different sizes and for different
purposes, stable, charthouse, and a garden well paled in. Any useful
repairs may be made by the tenant, and the expence deducted out of the
rent. The terms, which are extremely low, may be known by applying
to 3 BOLLING [damaged, illegible].
TO BE SOLD,
THE noted and well accustomed TAVERN, at present occupied by
the subscriber, lying in James City county, about 15 miles from
Williamsburg, on the main road leading to New Kent courthouse and
Ruffin’s ferry, with 500 acres of LAND in good order for cropping, and
6 fields under good fence. The terms of payment will be made easy by
the subscriber. THOMAS DONCASTLE.
THE ship TRIUMPH will certainly sail for London in six weeks,
agreeable to charter, and will take in tobacco, on liberty of con-
signnment, at 8l. sterling per ton. Any person inclinable to ship tobacco
in her will be pleased to send their orders to Mr. James Donald at Man-
chester, to Mr. Charles Duncan, at Blanford, to captain Rogers at Ber-
muda Hundred, to the subscriber at Curle’s, who will be extremely
obliged by the assistance of his friends.
3 PHILIP MAZZEI.
FOR SALE,
NINE hundred and forty acres of valuable land, lying
on both sides of Contrary River, in Louisa, with
those 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 Flem-
ing, John Massey, and John Lain, are now in possession
of the plantations, who will shew the land to any person
inclinable to purchase, and Major Thomas Johnson will
agree with them for the price. The above tract is esteem-
ed 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*)
RUN away, from Neabsco furnace, the 16th of
March a light coloured mulatto man named
BILLY, or WILL, the property of the honourable
John Tayloe, esquire. When I tell the public that he
is the same boy who for many years used to wait on me,
in my travels through this and the neigbouring pro-
vince, and by his pertness, or rathe impudence, was
well known to all my acquaintances, there is the less
occasion for a particular description of him. However,
as he is now grown to the size of a man, and has not at-
tended me for some time past, I think it not amiss to say
that he is a very likely young fellow, about 20 years
old, 5 feet 9 inches high, stout and strong made, has a
remarkable swing in his walk, but is much more so by a
surpriziing knack he has of gaining the good graces of
almost every body who will listen to his bewitching and
deceitful tongue, which seldom or ever speaks the truth.
He has a small scar on the right side of his forehead, and
the little finger of his right hand is quite straight by a
hurt he got when a child. Had on, when he went away,
a blue fearnought jacket, and an under one of green
baize, cotton breeches, oznabrig shirt, mixed blue sale
stockings, country made shoes, and yellow buckles.
From his ingenuity, he is capable of doing almost any
sort of business, and for some years past, has been chiefly
employed as a founder, a stone mason, and a miller, as
occasion required; one of which trades, I imagine, he
will, in the character of a free man, profess. I have
some reason to suspect his travelling towards James river,
under the pretence of being sent by me on business.
Whoever apprehends the said fellow, and brings him to
me, or to his master, the honourable John Taylor, at
Mountairy, or secure him so as to be had again, shall
have treble what the law allows, and all reasonable
charges paid. tf
THOMAS LAWSON.
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 bult with a
stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILL-
STONES, which mill has for two years past got up-
wards 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. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probable we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
To be SOLD, and entered upon immediately,
A TRACT of LAND containing 1300 acres, more
or less, on Pianketank river, in Gloucester county.
It is needless to be particular about it as it is the same I
advertised last year and then gave a full account of it,
since then I sold it to John Attway Clarke, of Maryland,
but as he refuses to take it, necessity obliges me once more
to offer it to he public. Any person inclinable to pur-
chse may know the terms by applying to me in Mid-
dlesex. I want part of the money at the meeting of the
merchants, and for the remainder I will give reasonable
credit. tf AUGUSTINE SMITH.
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.
To be SOLD, at public auction, at Westmoreland court-
house, on Tuesday the 27th day of September, being
Westmoreland court day,,
TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born SLAVES.
Credit will be allowed until the 10th of November
following, on giving bond and good security. The
bonds to bear interest from the date if not punctually
discharged. tdf RICHARD PARKER.
FOR SALE,
FIVE hundred acres of land, lying on Deep Creek, in
Louisa, about 45 miles of Richmond town, and is
exceeding good land, well watered by Deep Creek, and
a large branch thereof, which runs though the middle
of the land, and affords a large quantity of rich meadow
ground. Any person inclinable to purchase may see the
the land, and know the terms, by applying to the subscriber,
living near it. tf 1* GEORGE MERIWEATHER.
TO BE RENTED,
FROM YEAR TO YEAR, OR FOR A TERM OF YEARS,
BELVOIR,
THE beautiful seat of the honourable George William
Fairfax, esquire, lying upon Potowmack river, in
FAIRFAX county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The
mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four con-
venient 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 furnish-
ed 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 se-
veral valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land
in different parts, which may be let altogether, or sepa-
rately, as shall be found most convenient. The terms
may be known of Colonel Washington, who lives near
the premises, or of me, in Berkely county.
tf FRANCIS WILLIS, junior.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brook’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Loyall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels form 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELEY.
For SALE,
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 situ-
ation 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 SOLD, together or in parcels,
THAT fertile and well timbered tract of LAND,
lying in Princess Anne county, known by the name
of GIBB’S WOODS, whereon are several settlements,
and whereof Jeremiah Tinker, esquire, grandson of the
late governor Gibbs now stand seized, under the deed
of gift of his mother, the daughter and heiress of the
said governor Gibbs. Persons inclining to purchase may
be informed of the terms by applying to Mr. James
Parker, merchant in Norfolk, or to Edward Foy, in
Williamsburg, who will give an undoubted title. tf
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.
KING HEROD
STANDS at Rosegill, and will cover mares at FOUR
POUNDS the season. Those who send mares must
send the money, otherwise they shall not be left. The
valuable qualities, and the pedigree, of this horse, are
sufficiently notorious. RALPH WORMELEY, junior.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox river, on each side of Great Ducker’s and Mayo
creeks. Tobacco has been carried above this land 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous 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.
Thursday, September 22, 1774. NUMBER 437.
THE
VIRGINIA GAZETTE.
Open To ALL PARTIES, But influenced by NONE.
WILLIAMSBURG: PRINTED BY CLEMENTINA RIND.< /p>
All Persons may be supplied with this GAZETTE at 12 s. 6d. a Year. ADVERTISEMENTS, of a moderate Length, are inserted for 3 s. the first Week,
and 2 s. each Time after; long ones in Proportion.——PRINTING WORK, of every Kind, executed with Care and Dispatch.
To the GENTLEMEN of the VESTRIES in VIRGINIA.
Cessat decursus donorum si assat recursus graciarum.
Withhold your favours when they meet with no returns of gratitude.
GENTLEMEN,
I LATELY took the freedom to give some advice and reprehension
to the clergy, though not more with a view to their reformation
than with some expectation that it would put my countrymen on
their guard against imposition. If there was as much reason for
complaint, and the people have been as much injured, as was
represented, it behoves all who love LIBERTY and JUSTICE
to exert themselves in their behalf; but this will especially be expected
from you, as their representatives in ecclesiastical matters, and the
guardians of their spiritual privileges. It is to be lamented, that your
authority and power is so little adequate to the importance of your trust
and your opportunities for usefulness, and still more to be lamented, that
so much power and liberty is lodged in the clergy, who shew so great
a propensity to change their power into oppression, and their liberty into
licentiousness. Nevertheless, small as your authority is, a discreet and
circumspect use of it may produce beneficial effects, and independent as<b
the clergy are, their peace and comfort may appear to hang, in some
measure, on your favour and indulgence.
That you may be the more ready to listen to an address to you on this
occasion, much might be said on the dignity of your office, both as agents
for the people and assistants in governing the church of Christ, and also
on the importance of different points that come under your decision.
Instead of this, I shall content myself with taking notice of the single
act of setting a pastor over a congregation, as of sufficient consequence to
gain your attention to every rational argument and advice that may urge
you to, or assist you in, the performance of your duty. How inconsider-
able soever this business may be thought by men who undervalue every
thing that does not appear conspicuous in this world, yet in the final day
of accounts, when every article of human life will be rated according to
its real worth, it will be found that the election of a christian teacher
will have a higher value set upon it than many transactions which are
alluded to with greater solicitude, and looked upon to be far more interest-
ing, by the generality of mankind. It is evident, from scripture, that
preaching is the stated method of proclaiming the doctrines of salvation
to men, and also that its efficacy depends almost wholly on the manner
of its being performed and the example that accompanies it, so that the
character and ability of the minister are according to the plan of provi-
dence and system of grace, of nearly the same importance with christianity
itself. What a serious thought is this, that the eternal state of many
fellow creatures should so much depend on the conduct of one man, and
that one man should depend on your appointment! With what deliberation
and enquiry, with what anxiety and circumspection, must a truly con-
scientious man, warmed with benevolence, and softened with humanity,
proceed to an act of such everlasting consequence to his countrymen, to
his friends, to his neighbours, to his relations, when the social tie is the
strongest, and the union the most intimate! If the competition for a
parish lay between two clergymen of such equal parts and piety that the
difference would affect the future state of but a single person, would it not
demand your utmost care and study to make the happy choice? Nay, if
the difference between two candidates were so small as to affect only the
degree of future happiness in one individual, and that individual were the
most inconsiderable person you represent, certainly his pains could be
reckoned too great to find out the superior of the two; for the smallest
and seemingly most trivial circumstance, when it comes to be cloathed
with infinite duration, acquires a value that sets it above the most prized
possessions that have but a temporary existence. But where there is all
the reason in the world to think there is a very great inequality among
ministers of the gospel, and that while some by their knowledge, their
zeal, and exemplary lives, shall turn many unto righteousness, there are
others, who by their ignorance, their indolence, or unchristian practices,
shall lead men into error and perdition, what words can express the pre-
caution and scrutiny that should be employed in distinguishing the one sort
from the other?
No more, I presume, need be urged to procure the attention of every
considerate vestryman to whatever may be offered in regard to the dis-
charge of his great trust, as well as that particular part of it that relates
to the choice of a pastor. It must be owned that the time allowed for
your determination is so soon elapsed, and those who solicit are often so
little known, and have so great interest in disguising, that you must
sometimes be unavoidably deceived. What encreases your difficulty in
this matter, too, is, the great liberty many gentlemen take in recom-
mending clergymen to vacant parishes when they know very little of
them, and many times when what they do know affords no reason to
think them fit to teach or govern a christian society. Setting aside the
iniquity of this custom, with respect to its hurtful influence on religion,
it is really astonishing that men of sense and reputation, who in other
things adhere punctually to honour and truth, should in this case so
shamefully violate truth, honour, and fidelity. I dare say there are at
this time not a few clergymen who have been of signal disadvantage to
the people that have procured a reception into their parishes merely by
carrying vouchers for their merit from gentlemen of character. What a
pity it is, that any man should make use of his credit to do so great an
injury to his fellow men, and to those, too, who rely most on his veracity
and judgment! Nor is it less strange that this practice should bring so
little reproach on persons who would have been justly disgraced had they
been as culpably accessary to the temporal damage of mankind; an in-
contestable evidence this of the little regard that has been paid among
us to religion, and the purity of the church of England.
But let not these difficulties discourage you, but rather incite you to
greater prudence, integrity, and diligence, in the discharge of your
weighty trust; and the less confidence you find there is to be put in the
intercession of others, the more sedulous should you be in taking the ad-
vantage of personal interviews with the candidates for your parishes, by
carefully examining their principles and inspecting their conduct. To do
this, you must see how necessary it is that you yourselves should be well
acquainted with the laws, tenets, and government, of the church to
which you have solemnly subscribed to be conformable, and without the
knowledge of which you cannot act the part of faithful vestrymen. You
must be convinced of this, when it is considered that your office plainly
requires you to interrogate candidates freely and particularly about the
plan they intend to proceed on in their ministerial exercises, the doctrines
they intend to preach, the interpretations they put on the articles of the
church, the duties they think incumbent on clergymen as to private
labours among their parishioners, the discipline they intend to practise,
and to put such other questions as may sound their religious notions and
give you an insight into their real characters. It will be requisite, more-
over, to observe whether they be well versed in the scriptures, and are
fond of discoursing on divine subjects, whether they try most to learn the
state of religion and the most likely means of promoting it among the
people, or are most inquisitive about the value of their salaries and the
fertility and improvements of the glebes. You must expect that the more
wary and strict you are with them the more artful and industrious impostors
will be at dissimulation. But it is extremely hard for an ignorant man to
appear knowing, or for a knave to personate the honest man, under the
eye and examination of a discerning judge. If the mask does not drop
quite off, it will slip aside sometimes and let you have a glance at their
faces, which will embolden you to go on in your search, till you can,
in a becoming manner, tear it off and expose the full visage of the wolf.
I cannot help giving you some caution, particularly against those gentle-
men who come from the north part of Britain. The church of England
has been greatly prejudiced by adopting the discarded sons of the kirk of
Scotland, and we have reason to regret that deposition in that church has
not hindered some form enjoying a benefice in this province. Besides
these, we have suffered much from others, who despairing of admission
into the ministry of their national church, through insufficiency far im-
morality, and being pressed with poverty and hunger, post up to London,
crying to the bishop, each on in the language of the generation of Eli,
put me, I pray thee, into one of the priest’s offices, that I may eat a piece of
bread. We are likewise in danger from another class of persons that re-
volt from that communion, who are captivated by good living and allured
by the superior secular advantages of the priesthood in our establishment.
They come from their native country over into this in the character of
private tutors, and by residing in gentlemens families, where they get
more meat at one meal than they used to do in half a year, and drink
more wine than in their whole lives before, grow fat, lazy, and proud,
and losing in point of religion and conscience, as they gain in flesh, apply
for holy orders in the church of England, that they may be at once perpe-
tuate their good face and get rid of the trouble of earning it. This is
not spoken from the least prejudice against a nation renowned for learning,
industry, and frugality, nor against a church that has been often applauded
for orthodoxy and purity, nor against converts to episcopacy from rational
conviction and the desire of doing good, who ought to be held in the
highest esteem, but from a regard to the interests of religion, and disdain
at those mercenary and voluptuous wretches who fell their birthright for a
mess of pottage, and become a burden to our society and a scandal to the
established church. If their lives may be a testimony in favour of my
allegations, I believe it might be shewn that the clergy from that quarter
are, and have been, by far the most worthless of any among us, the old
ones commonly turning out to be sots or misers, and the young ones paltry
coxcombs or ignorant clowns.
Let us now consider the clergy as possessed of the living and the care of
the people, and see what treatment is due to them: If they are zealous
and active in the duties of their function, preaching constantly and fer-
vently, visiting and watching over their flocks, practising and promoting
all public, domestic, and private duties; if they faithfully declare the
doctrines of christianity, and by example, exhortation, and reproof, en-
deavour to bring men to obey its precepts; if they shew themselves more
anxious about the salvation of sinners than the collection of their salaries,
and seem more ambitious of adding to the church such as are to be saved
than of augmenting their worldly possessions and rising to worldly ho-
nours; if they give these proofs of their integrity and soundness in the
faith; no respect or encouragement can exceed their desert. But it is
needless to urge you to this; there is no danger of your being defective
in rewarding the meritorious. A faithful laborious minister, acquires
the greatest influence imaginable over his congregation, and is sure of
almost every favour he thinks fit to ask. This is so true that it may be
safely averred that the comfortable situation of unworthy clergymen in all
countries is owing, in great measure, to the zeal and merit of their pre-
decessors, who procured so much confidence, and were so much in the
affections of the laity, that they were indulged with powers and privileges
which descended, without their good qualities, to those that succeeded
them. No one, I fancy, can think it probable, if the legislature were
now to fix the maintenance of ministers, with their eyes on the present
set, that one fourth of what they now receive would be thought due to
them.
Leaving, therefore, those worthy divines, who are sure of having justice
done them, and cannot be treated with too much kindness and reverence,
let us turn to those of the opposite column, and see what they deserve at
your hands: It is too commonly thought that unfaithful clergymen are
entitle to esteem and respect from the sanctity of their office, and that
their faults should be overlooked to keep up the dignity and usefulness of
the priesthood. This is a mistaken and pernicious notion; the sacred
function is dishonoured by the ill conduct of those who occupy it, not by
the contempt and punishment of that ill conduct, and the dignity of the
priesthood can be preserved only by shewing such men to be unworthy of
it. If you have clergymen fixed upon you, who preach as seldom and as
short as they well can, when they should be instant in season, out of season,
who are shy of conversing on religious topics when they should be examples
of believers in word and conversation, who do not visit and inspect their
flock when they should teach from house to house, and reprove, rebuke, and
exhort with all long suffering and doctrine, who omit the orderly and pious
government of their families, and do not direct their parishioners to the
use of domestic duties, when they should rule well their own houses, and
ought to pray for the families that call not on the name of God, whilst they
abstain from the most gross immoralities; if they are chargeable with
these, or such like deficiencies, do they deserve the name of evangelical
pastors, or are they entitled to the favour and esteem of honest christians?
Do they not rather challenge your indignation and contempt? When they
thus disgrace the church they belong to, defraud the people of the in-
struction due to them, and disregard the vows they have made to God at
their assumption of holy orders, and the covenant they solemnly though
secretly formed with yourselves at their induction, when they betray so
much unfaithfulness, injustice, and impiety, are you not bound in duty
to your Maker, to your constituents, and to yourselves, to withhold
every discretionary advantage and emolument? Is it generous, is it just,
to levy unnecessary taxes on the people to gratify men who plainly shew
they care nothing for them; to buy new glebes, build and repair houses,
and run the people to other costs, for the ease and conveniency of un-
grateful men, who will grow more negligent as they grow more inde-
pendent, and more vicious or griping as they grow more wealthy?
I am persuaded that many of you, gentlemen, have been lavish in your
bounties to the clergy purely from a principle of liberality and humanity;
but it has been a mistaken or misapplied principle; it has been exercised
towards a few, to the detriment of many; towards a few who had no
claim to your favour, on the score of merit, to the detriment of many,
who have given up part of their property to be disposed of by you, and
entrusted you with the management of their most important concerns.
I would not insinuate that the clergy, because they neglect duty, have no
right to justice; but that the people have an equal right to it. And does
justice require that the clergy should have all the reward, when they per-
form but part of the labour? Or does it allow that the people should pay
the whole stipend, when they receive but part of the instruction? As the
purchasing, and building on glebes, is what lies most at your discretion,
in rewarding the clergy, you ought to manage that matter with all the
art and oeconomy possible, and with a steady regard to the interest of the
people; it should, like the last piece of gold in the purse, be husbanded
to the best advantage. So long as you have this in reserve, you will pro-
bably be treated by your incumbents with good manners, and civility, at
least; as gamesters are complaisant and courteous to those who have any
thing more to lost; but as soon as they have got the whole booty, flight
and laugh at the unfortunate. For your own sakes, then, I would advise
you never to put yourselves into such a state, that you have no favour to
bestow, or the minister has none to ask. You will take notice, I am
speaking all along of those clergymen who are deficient in the duties I
have specified. Such shew so little conscientiousness in the discharge of
their office, that no charity can oblige a man to think a principle of con-
science carried them into the ministry. It is too plain they were moved
by a prospect of the living; and therefore you must not expect to mend
them, or make them more conscientious, by feeding their lucrative ap-
petites. Indeed, it is hard to say what good end can be served by giving
fruitful glebes, and fine buildings to undeserving clergymen. If any of
you have one that is imperious and assuming, can you think you will
abate his pride by encreasing his independence? If you have one that is
sordid and covetous, do you imagine you will lessen his avarice by enlarging
his stock, and giving him greater means of enriching himself? If you
have one that is lazy, and likes not to turn out to attend his church,
and go among his parishioners to instruct them, is it to be supposed you will
make him more willing to go abroad by granting him such land, build-
ings, and conveniencies, as will render his situation more commodious
and comfortable at home? Besides these considerations, the interest of
the laity is to be carefully regarded. Prudence does not more forbid un-
necessary grants to idle clergymen that justice forbids unnecessary taxes on
the injured laity. It would seem, by the conduct of many of the clergy,
as if they thought, like some absolute monarchs, that their function was
instituted merely for the benefit and support of such persons as themselves,
and not for the good and happiness of the society they live upon. But I
hope, gentlemen, the more they neglect and undervalue the people, the
more tender you will be of their rights and possessions; and the more slow
they are to communicate instruction, the more solicious you will be to
keep back the reward.
The salaries settled by law, with the glebes and perquisites annexed,
were deemed both a genteel living, and competent reward, for worthy
men, who should perform all the duties, and answer all the purposes, the
legislature had in view when they were making provision for the clergy.
It was thought that the laity could well spare a part of their commodities
for the great benefits of a christian ministry, and that the clergy, thus dis-
entangled from the cares of the world, might give themselves whollyto
the proper business of their station; and if matters had so turned out, if
the laity had received all the services due to them, and if the clergy had
taken occasion, from their happy circumstances, to shake off worldly
concerns, and to employ all their time and abilities in serving the flock
over which the Holy Ghost had made them overseers,it would have been
reasonable and right they should have had their full allowance. But as
the clergy make so light of their obligations, and so pervert and misapply
their stipends, their time, and their talents, and as the laity are de-
prived of so great a share of the expected advantages, it may justly be
expected that you should give all the redress in your power to the suffer-
ers. I do not mean that you should break through the bounds of the
law, but that you should act so cautiously and scrupulously as to do the
most strict justice, and make all possible savings to the people. This
would be prudent and laudable if you acted only for yourselves; but when
you act for others, it is your indispensable duty. If your bestowing every
thing you legally can world be a full compensation to the clergy for the
performance of all their duties, I am sure it is not in your power to bring
down their emoluments so low as to make them no more than a just
compensation for what they actually perform. If 16,000 pounds of to-
bacco, marriage and funeral-serman-fees, with the best glebe and
improvements in the colony, are an adequate satisfaction for the dis-
charge of every parochial duty, to what a mere pittance would strict
equity reduce the income of those who content themselves with barely
preaching a short sermon once a week?
After what has been said, may I not apply to those of you, who have
it now, or may hereafter have it, in contemplation, to purchase new,
or add to or repair, old glebes, with this reasonable entreaty, that you
would consider whether you have the concurrence and approbation of the
people, and whether the minister you now have acquits himself so faith-
fully as to deserve it. If these enquiries result in favour of your intenti-
ons, and to the honour of your pastor, I congratulate both you and him
on your mutual felicity. May you reward and revere him, and may it
provoke his gratitude, and encrease his usefulness. But if the sentiments
of the people, and the character of the incumbent, are found to militate
against such a measure, I must say, that honour and fidelity, reason,
conscience, and religion, forbid the prosecution of it, and that no con-
sideration whatever can justify you in giving away the property of the
people to support an unprofitable minister in indolence and ease. Con-
sider what I have said, and the Lord give you understanding in all things.
I am, GENTLEMEN, your’s, &c.
A CATHOLIC CHRISTIAN.
LONDON, July I.
By the last vessels from Boston, in New England, very satisfactory
advices of the peaceable disposition of that long distracted town have
been received by the merchants here. The invoices that were thrown
aside immediately on the receipt of Hancock’s frantic oration have been
taken up again; goods are shipping, and several vessels will, in the space
of a few weeks, sail for Boston. Yet still it is thought that bills, to a
considerable amount, drawn by merchants in Boston on their correspond-
ents in London, will remain unanswered; for our men of business have
begun to be cautious how the advance money for people whose payments
are very precarious and insecure. It is also imagined, that if Boston
continues quiet, and passes the expected compensation bills, that the port
will not only be opened, but that thee will be no restriction laid on any
of the wharfs, as to shipping or landing of goods.
It is much reported that the Americans have at last come to a resolu-
tion of soliciting the assistance of some power, which is not yet known.
This report, it is said, has indeed very much embarrassed the premier,
who, it is thought, is now really in a wood, and does not know which
way to proceed.
The artificers of several of the dockyards, it is said, now work double
days, which looks as if lord North did not confide so much in French
protestations as the world says he does.
Early on Saturday morning a whole length etching of a first lord of the
treasury, suspended by a cord de cou, was found hanging to the knocker
of a certain house in Downing Street,with the following inscription:
”May such be the fate of all reformers of the religion of their country!”
A gentlemen wondering to Charles Fox, the other day, why lord
North was not afraid of going through such an unconstitutional measure
as the late Quebec bill, “You may depend on it, says the other, he has
got an absolution for it.”
Lord North being asked on day if he thought it now possible to re-
move the young cub’s inveteracy against the ministry, “O yes (replied
his lordship) a bolus made of gold and silver will as easily purge him of
that as a vomit will his foul stomach.”
The Algerines have a this time a dispute with the Dutch and Spa-
niards as well as our court. The latter have given orders for the Dutch
admiral to go down immediately with a proper force to demand an expli-
cit answer for their conduct.
The Olive, Cranley, from Sierraleone to Philadelphia, with 170
slaves on board, has been blown off the capes of Virginia in a hard gale
of wind, and obliged to bear away for Bermudas; but before she reached
the latter place, the ship unfortunately took fire by some accident, and
was burnt down to the water’s edge, when she sunk, and the captain,
together with the crew and slaves, were either drowned or perished in
the flames.
The late rains and fine weather have brought the grass so very forward
in the country that they are now in several places busy mowing, which is
sooner than has been known for many years past. It is almost incredible
what crops there are; therefore the monopolizers of hay last year now
begin to carry woful countenances, as they have overstood their markets,
it being generally thought that hay will be twenty shillings a ton lower
than it has been this last winter.
By a letter from a gentleman of veracity at Cadiz we are informed,
that after a council of war held at that place, orders were given for fit-
ting out ten ships of the line with the utmost expedition.
A letter from Amsterdam mentions, that the forces of Spain, accord-
ing to the list lately published, amount to 156,000 men; in former reigns
they did not exceed 80,000 men.
The Blundell, Dawson, of Liverpool, is lost on the bar of Bonny,
with 300 slaves.
We are informed that the service for the 5th of November is to be entirely
new modelled; that celebrated investigator of historical facts, Sir J. D.
having undertaken to prove that the horrid scheme, intended to have
been executed on that day, was not a catholic, but a protestant con-
trivance.
July 4. Private letters from Boston give us rather an unfavourable ac-
count of the state of that town, in a mercantile view. The generality
of the faction have little trading intercourse with England, being mostly
composed of men who are engaged in smuggling companies, or mechanics;
yet there are some merchants among them, but these merchants are
mostly indebted in England, are violent party men, and attribute the
non-payment of their debts to the threepenny duty on tea, and to the
exercise of the just rights of the British legislature over them; therefore
the merchants who either will not, or cannot, make remittances, the
smugglers, the mechanics, and those who are fascinated with the extra-
vagant notion of independency, all join to counteract the majority of
the merchants, and the lovers of peace and good order. Seditious com-
mittees have been appointed, who have endeavoured to influence the
other colonies to shut up their ports, to ruin themselves, and to starve
the West Indies, in order to enable the herd of faction at Boston to con-
quer ungrateful England. In this extraordinary scheme, the unsuccess
of the Boston rebels has been adequate to the folly of the proposal. Some
of the other colonies have publicly declared that they will not enter into
any non-importation agreement with the people of Boston, because the
faction of that town had most infamously deceived them in a former
agreement of the same kind. What the Boston faction themselves have
published, concerning the colonies of Rhode Island and New Hampshire
joining in their frantic scheme, is partly true. These colonies have ver-
bally joined the Bostonians; but, if we can credit private letters from
Boston itself, it is not expected that those colonies will observe in prac-
tice what they have promised in writing; and there are also letters in
town, from merchants who constitute part of the faction (that is to say,
the honest and the misled part, whose eyes are now partly opened) and
they declare, amidst their asseverations of defending what they call their
rights and privileges, that they will take proper care not to be cheated
by their brother confederates, as they were in the last non-importation
agreement. From this intelligence we may readily conceive that no
consistent, permanent, or vigorous measures, will be adopted by the
Boston rebels; for where there exists a suspicion, in the minds of men
acting together, of a want of faith among themselves, or, to speak in
plainer terms, where one party of them expects to be cheated by the
other, in such an association, unanimity cannot long subsist, more espe-
cially as their confederacy is fundamentally wrong and unwarrantable; a
house built upon a fancy foundation, and divided against itself, cannot
stand. Such are the contents of many letters from Boston by the two
last vessels, and such advices have had a proper effect, or at least, it is
supposed, will have, on the merchants here, as several vessels, that were
expected to sail in a few weeks for the Massachusetts, will either be
obliged to remain here, or to sail in ballast. Private letters also menti-
on, that some owners of vessels have laid up their ships, on the supposition
that the English merchants will not ship any goods till the faction has
submitted, and till the blockade is withdrawn. Other letters hint, that
some who are called merchants have in contemplation a removal to the
banks of the Ohio and the Missisippi, as in such remote regions they will
have little chance of hearing from their friends in England. In general,
the private accounts bear the complexion of the writers; some, who wish
for the opening of the port, are nevertheless, well pleased that such an
effectual measure has been taken, as the most seditious now begin to feel
their own littleness, and have also drawn upon themselves the reproaches
of the more moderate; and as some of the heads of the faction have no
concerns in lawful trade, the majority of the merchants complain much
against them for involving the town in such distress. It is likewise said,
that if the act had been conditional, and if, upon their voting the com-
pensation for the tea, its operation would have been prevented, that the
money would have been instantly granted, for the real cause of all the
rebellious insolence committed at Boston was, the continued assurances
sent to Boston by their agent that Britain was too enfeebled, and admi-
nistration too timorous, for to take any spirited measures to repress them.
The fatal effects of listening to such insidious advices are now clearly seen
by every person possessed of common sense. The public accounts, which
the faction have published from their friends (as they mistakenly call
them) in London, give us the strongest evidence of the base falshoods
employed to mislead the ignorant people of Boston. Amongst these many
pages of falshoods, we shall only select one article, which is, “that when
the regiments were ordered to embark for Boston, many of the officers
resigned their commissions, refusing to be the instruments of oppression.”
This may serve as a specimen of the encouragement which the factious
miscreants here infuse into the Bostonians on purpose to seduce them.
Another piece of admirable advice given them, by some knave here, is,
”that as their port was to be blocked up, it would be wise in them not to
pay any of their debts to this country.” Thinking men now will not be
surprized that there have been the most unjustifiable commotions and in-
surrections in Boston, as they find that the peeple whom the Bostonians
confide in, and entrust with the management of their affairs here, have
written their correspondents the well established truth of the officers re-
signing their commissions, and also sent them the honest advice not to
pay their just debts!
July 7. The captain of a ship arrived from Kirkwall, in the Orkneys,
brings an account, that on the 10th of last month upwards of 150 sail of
Dutch vessels rendezvoused in Braffa Sound, and from thence proceeded
on the herring fishery.
A correspondent says he wishes the framers and advisers of the Quebec
bill were obliged to walk from Whitechapel to Hyde Park Corner naked,
tarred, and feathered, if so small a punishment was equal to their crime;
and it must be droll, he says, to frame to one’s self the thane and Jef-
feries waling in procession among the feathered race.
Plenty (says sir William Temple) begets wantonness and pride; wan-
tonness is apt to invent, and pride scorns to imitate. Liberty begets
stomach or heart, and stomach will not be constrained. Thus we come
to have more originals, and more that appear what they are; we have
more humour, because every man follows his own, and takes a pleasure,
perhaps a pride, to shew it. This pride and wantonness, resulting from
plenty, now reside only in high life.
What was said by the greatest writer of his time in the year 1692 may,
it is feared, bear an application to our own. There are no where so
many disputes upon religion, so many reasoners upon government, so
many refiners in politics, so many curious inquisitors, so many pretend-
ers to business, and state employments, greater porers upon books, nor
plodders after wealth, and yet, no where more abandoned libertines, more
refined luxurists, extravagant debauchees, conceited gallants, more dab-
blers in poetry, as well as in politics, philosophy, and chymistry.
A great foreign physicians called our country, almost a century ago, the
region of spleen. This may arise a good deal from the great uncertainty
and sudden changes of our weather in all seasons of the year; and how
much these affect the heads and hearts, especially of the finest tempers,
is hard to be believed by men whose thoughts are not turned to such
speculations. This makes us unequal in our humours, inconstant in our
passions, uncertain in our ends, and even in our desires.
A correspondent, who has the best intelligence from the colonies, as-
sures the publlic that the people there will most undoubtedly suppress all
trade which can in any shape have benefited this country. He remarks,
that this must go deeper towards destroying our national security, and
strike deeper at national credit, than any warlike declaration from France
or Spain could do; that with the aid of America we might bear our pre-
sent burthens, and many more; without them we must sink with a mill-
stone about our necks, even without a contention with any European
neighbour; nor can we hope the spirit of Choiseul will be at rest when
we give him so certain an opportunity to compleat our ruin.
July 9.Friday se’nnight, at Boroughbridge fair, in Yorkshire, two
clothiers, from the West Riding, were prevailed on to make an exchange
with a sharper, or smuggler, by giving him cloth to the amount of ten
pounds, for which they were to receive three bags of tea and three half-
anchors of geneva; but how great was their mortification to find about
a quarter of a pound of tea, at the top of each bag, and underneath, chopped
hay, sand, and bran. Each of the half-anchors had a thin tube fixed within
the bunghole, which contained a sample of good geneva, of near a pint
in quantity, the rest pure element.
The late spirited resolutions of the Americans hath thrown the king
and minister into a dreadful quandary.
A correspondent, in the Public Advertiser, addresses himself to Mr.
Grieve in the following manner, on account of his late attempt to be
sheriff of London: “And so, Mr. Grieve, you really had no other mo-
tive in the world for desiring to be sheriff but to relieve the modest livery
of London from the cruel tyranny of a wicked minister!
My good Mr. Grieve,
How could you conceive
That you could be shrieve?
Or can we believe
That you could relieve,
Except with good beeves,
Such a parcel of thieves!”
Yesterday lieutenant governor Robert Eden, esquire, governor of Ma-
ryland, who arrived from thence on Tuesday evening for a few weeks, in
order to take over his lady and family, waited on his majesty at the levee,
being introduced by the master of the ceremonies, and was very graciously
received.
As a proof that the king of Prussia is greatly in the interest of Great
Britain, it is positively said that a great sum of money has within these
few days been sent him from hence, in order to enable him to compleat
some scheme he has long been concerting, and that, if found necessary,
it will be followed by more.
The principal reason assigned for the king of Prussia’s professing him-
self a friend to England is, because we gave him no interruption in his
late proceedings in Poland, which, at one time, he very little expected
from us.
A rider to a wholesale tradesmen, lately arrived in town, says, that
in the several counties and corporate towns he has lately been in, ex-
ecuting his commissions in the course of this summer, he finds that tar
and feathers will bear a good price next spring, and be a good commodity;
as the inhabitants of the several corporate towns, where he has been
in the west, are determined to tar and feather every wight who voted for
the Quebec bill, if they presume to come and offer themselves as candi-
dates at the next general election, as a mark of their detestation, and
while they can do no more, they think to shew that it will, at least,
they say, prevent the number of macaroni gentry, who at present com-
pose the house, and who voted for it, to offer themselves, as the smell
of tar will be worse than death to their delicate constitutions.
On Saturday afternoon a countryman was inveigled into a public house
in Chancery Lane by two fellows, who pretended an acquaintance with
him, and said they would treat him with share of a pot of beer. While
they were drinking, one of them produced cards, and offered to cut for
a shilling, on which the countryman suspecting them, got up to go
away, but they insisted he should pay for the liquor, and on his refusal,
they began to threaten him; on which he gave them both a severe drub-
bing, and then left them to pay the reckoning.
Early on Sunday, the 26th of June, John Upson, of Woodbridge, in
the county of Suffolk, glover, who was committed to the castle for felony
a few days before, hanged himself in his own room with his garter. The
coroner’s inquest sat on the body, and brought in their verdict non compas
mentis. The following verses were found wrote in a prayer book lying
by him:
Farewell, vain world, I’ve had enough of thee,
And now am careless what thou say’st of me;
Thy smiles I court not, nor thy frowns I fear,
My cares are past, my heart lies easy here;
What faults they find in me take care to shun,
And look at home; enough is to be done.
A gentleman at Lambeth having repeatedly had his greenhouse robbed
of different plants, was resolved at last to find out the thief, for which
purpose he put a small man-trap against one of the windows, which he
supposed the rogue came in at, but to his great surprize, the next morn-
ing, he found his own son dead in it, being caught by the neck.
We are assured that the Active frigate, which arrived at Portsmouth
about 3 weeks ago from Boston, brought orders to several merchants in
Bristol for goods to a considerable amount; the principal people of that
place being sincerely disposed to continue on an amicable footing with
Great Britain, and using their utmost endeavours to keep the factious
rabble in order. Four of the ringleaders, it is said, are ordered to Eng-
land in irons. There is great reason to believe, therefore, that the port
will soon be opened, and that trade will again flourish in that quarter of
the world.
Tuesday morning a squeamish journeyman tailor, in the neighbour-
hood of Lincoln’s Inn Fields, for a trifling wager, eat seven buttered
roles, and drank one pennyworth of beer. He was allowed one hour to
do it in, but, like a true son of liberty, erected on his exalted throne, he
valiantly performed the arduous task, and became master of the roles in
exactly forty five minutes.
Famine in masquerade, behold thy portrait here,
Seven mighty butter’d roles, one pennyworth of beer,
Devour’d he, nor seem’d he yet to thrive,
Tho all cramm’d down in minutes forty five.
Amaz’d the standers by! Time cry’d, as ambling on,
Phantom, I dread thee, thou art famine’s son!
July 11. The late affair at Plymouth, which ended so unfortunately, and
so contrary to expectation, having occasioned much discussion, and given rise to
a contrariety of opinion s upon the subject, it is thought proper to give a detail
of the transaction; the public may be assured that it comes form the best autho-
rity: Mr. Day (the sole projector of the scheme, and, as matters have
turned out, the unhappy sacrifice of his own ingenuity) employed his thoughts
for some years past in planning a method of sinking a vessel under water, with
a man in it, who should live therein for a certain time, and then, by his own
means only, bring himself up to the surface. After much study, he conceived
that his plan could be reduced into practice; he communicated his idea in the
part of the country where he lived, and had the most sanguine hopes of success.
He went so far as to try his project in the broads near Yarmouth; he fitted a
Norwich market-boat for his purpose, sunk himself 30 feet under water,
where he continued during the space of 24 hours, and executed his design to
his own entire satisfaction. Elate with this success, he then wanted to avail
himself of his invention. He conversed with his friends, perfectly convinced
that he had brought his undertaking to a certainty, but how to reap the ad-
vantage of it was the difficulty that remained. The person in whom he con-
fided suggested to him that if he acquainted the sporting gentlemen with the
discovery, and the certainty of the performance, considerable bets would take
place as soon as the project should be mentioned in company. The sporting
calendar was immediately looked into, and the name of Mr. Blake soon occurred.
That gentleman was fixed upon as the person to whom Mr. Day ought to ad-
dress himself; acordingly Mr. Blake, in the month of November last, re-
ceived the following letter:
SIR
I found out an affair, by which means thousands may be won; it is of
a paradoxical nature, but can be performed with ease; therefore, sir, if you
chuse to be informed of it, and give me one hundred pounds out of every thou-
sand you shall win by it, I will very readily wait upon you and inform you
of it. I am myself but a poor mechanic, and not able to make any thing by it
myself without your assistance. Your’s, &c. J. DAY.
Mr. Blake had no conception of Mr. Day’s design, nor was he sure that
the letter was serious. To clear the matter up, he returned for answer, that
if Mr. Day would come to town and explain himself, Mr. Blake would con-
sider of the proposal; if he approved of it, Mr. Day should have the re-
compence he desired, if, on the other hand, the plan should be rejected, Mr.
Blake would make him a present to defray the expences of his journey. In
a short time after Mr. Day came to town; Mr. Blake saw him, and desired
to know what secret he was possessed of: The man replied that he could sink
a ship one hundred yards deep in the sea, with himself in it, and remain
therein for the space of twenty four hours, without communication with any
thing above, and at the expiration of the time rise up again in the vessel. The
proposal, in all its parts, was new to Mr. Blake; he took down the particulars,
and after considering the matter, desired some kind of proof of the practicability:
The man added, that if Mr. Blake would furnish him with the materials ne-
cessary, he would give him ocular demonstration. A model of the vessel in
which he was to perform the experiment was then required, and in three or
four weeks accomplished, so as to give a perfect idea of the principle upon
which the scheme was to be executed, and indeed a very plausible promise of
success, not to Mr. Blake only, but many other gentlemen who were consulted
upon the occasion. The consequence was, that Mr. Blake, agreeably to the
man’s desire, advanced money for the construction of a vessel fit for the pur-
pose. Mr. Day, thus assisted, went to Plymouth with his model, and set the
men at the place to work upon it. The pressure of the water, at 100 feet
deep, was a circumstance of which Mr. Blake was advised, and touching
that article, he gave the strongest precautions to Mr. Day, telling him at any
expence to fortify the chamber in which he was to subsist against the weight
of such a body of water. Mr. Day set off in great spirits for Plymouth,
and seemed so confident, that Mr. Blake made a bet that the project would
succeed, reducing, however, the depth of water from one hundred yards to
one hundred feet, and the time from twenty four to twelve hours. By the
terms of the wager, the experiment was to be made within three months from
the date; but so much time was necessary for due preparation, that on the
appointed day things were not in readiness, and Mr. Blake lost the bet. In
some short time afterwards the vessel was finished, and Mr. Day still con-
tinued eager for the carrying of his plan into execution; he was uneasy at the
idea of dropping the scheme, and wished for an opportunity to convince Mr.
Blake that he could perform what he had undertaken; he writ from Plymouth
that every thing was in readiness, and should be executed the moment Mr.
Blake arrived. Induced by this promise, Mr. Blake set out for Plymouth:
Upon his arrival a trial was made in Catwater, where Mr Day lay during
the flow of the tide for six hours, and six more during the tide of ebb, con-
fined all the time in the room appropriated for his use. A day for the final
determination was then fixed, the vessel was towed to the place agreed upon,
Mr. Day provide himself with whatever he thought necessary, went into the
vessel, let the water into her, and with great composure retired to the room
constructed for him, and shut up the valve. The ship went gradually down,
in twenty two fathom water, at two o’clock on Tuesday in the afternoon, being
to return at two the next morning. He had three buoys, or messengers, which
he could send to the surface at option, to announce his situation below, but none
appearing, Mr. Blake, who was near at hand in a barge, began to entertain
some suspicion; he kept a strict look out, and at the time appointed neither the
buoys nor the vessel coming up, he applied to the Orpheus frigate, which lay
just off the barge for assistance. The captain, with the most ready benevolence,
supplied him with every thing in his power to sweep for the ship. Mr. Blake,
in this alarming situation, was not content with the help of the Orpheus only;
he made immediate application to lord Sandwich, who happened to be at Ply-
mouth, for further relief: His lordship, with great humanity, ordered a
number of hands from the dockyard, who went with the utmost alacrity and
tried every effort to regain the ship, bat unhappily without effect. Thus
ended this unfortunate affair. Mr. Blake had not experience enough to judge
of all possible contingencies, and has only now to lament the credulity with
which he listened to a projector fond of his own scheme, but certainly not
possessed of skill enough to guard against the variety of accidents to which he
was liable. The poor man has unfortunately shortened his days; he was not,
however tempted or influenced by any body; he confided in his own judgment,
and put his life to the hazard upon his own mistaken notions.
A letter from Paris, dated July 1, says: “As an instance of his ma-
jesty’s justice and care of his subjects, the following is related. As his
majesty was walking a few days ago in his gardens at Marli, he met some
poor women who had been weeding in the garden. The day being hot,
he was moved with compassion for these poor labourers, and asked them
how much they earned a day. The women, not knowing the king, an-
swered him, “Alas, sir, but six sols a day, and that, too, when the
price of bread is so very high.” The king, to whom it appeared very
suspicious, sent immediately for the head gardener, desiring to see how
much expence he was at in the course of the year. The expence was
brought in, when it was found that twenty sols per day was charged for
each labourer. Monster! said the king, how can you behave so cruelly
to your fellow creatures? And ordered him to be brought to justice before
the police.”
It is thought that the death of a late nobleman will occasion many
chancery suits, as the reversions which were granted by his children, on
his death, to several of the sons of Levi, are most of them subject to be
set aside in a court of equity.
July 12. By a vessel just arrived in the river, from Lisbon, we learn
that the Portuguese troops are all in motion, and that 11 ships of war
were sitting out in the Tagus when she left that place.
Since the troops arrived in Boston, there have been great desertions
amongst the soldiery, which the Americans greatly encourage, being the
surest method to weaken us, and strengthen themselves.
Since the Quebec bill passed, our two august houses, by the accounts
received from Dover and Harwich, there are no less than 7000 Jesuits
arrived in this kingdom.
A CHARACTER by lord Chesterfield.———There is a man, whose
moral character, deep learning, and superior parts, I acknowledge, ad-
mire, and respect; but whom it is so impossible for me to love, that I
am almost in a fever whenever I am in his company. His figure (with-
out being deformed) seems made to disgrace or ridicule the common
structure of the human body. His legs and arms are never in the positi-
on, which, according to the situation of his body, they ought to be in;
but constantly employed in committing hostilities upon the graces. He
throws any where, but down his throat, whatever he means to drink
and only mangles what he means to carve. Inattentive to all the re-
gards of social life, he mis-tunes or mis-places every thing. He dis-
putes with heat, and indiscriminately. Mindless of the rank, character,
and situation, of those with whom he disputes, and absolutely ignorant
of the several gradations of familiarity or respect, he is exactly the same
to his superiors, his equals, and his inferiors, and therefore, by a ne-
cessary consequence, absurd to two of the three. Is it possible to love
such a man? No. The utmost I can do for him is to consider him as
a respectable Hottentot!
An address of a very singular nature is said to have been presented to a
great personage on Friday last, by a person of some eminence from the
other side of Tweed.
By authentic intelligence from the Cape of Good Hope, where one of
the ships are arrived which sailed with captain Cook to the South Ssas,
we are informed, that they explored in vain to the southward, in search
of a continent, and therefore bore up for New Zealand, where they had
landed, but had lost a lieutenant and two men, who by venturing too
far into the country, had been cut off by the Cannibals, and devoured;
that in consequence of this loss, they had dispatched a second boat, and
the whole crew were massacred, roasted, and eat, by the savages; the
next boat having only a miserable spectacle of their bones, after the in-
human repast. From thence they sailed to the Cape of Good Hope, and
speedily will pursue their voyage home. No very material circumstances
further passed in the course of their expedition.
Nothing, says a correspondent, but a speedy war, and change of mi-
nistry, can possibly save this country; for it is better, says he, to stand a
chance of war, plundering or being plundered by the enemy, as the fate
of war may happen, than of being plundered at home by a Scotch and
popish ministry, laughing, at the same time, as a weak and impotent
minority.
Extract of a letter from a very respectable member of the Virginia assembly to
his correspondent in London, dated Williamsburg, May 20.
”Infinite astonishment, and equal resentment, has seized every one
here, on account of the war sent to Boston. It is the universal deter-
mination to stop the exportation of tobacco, pitch, tar, lumber, &c. and
to stop all importation from Britain, while this act of hostility continues.
We every day expect an express from Boston, and it appears to me in-
contestibly certain that the above measures will be universally adopted.
We see, with concern, that this plan will be most extensively hurtful
to our fellow subjects in Britain; nor would be have adopted it if Heaven
had left us any other way to secure our liberty, and prevent the total ruin
of ourselves and our posterity to endless ages. A wicked ministry must
answer for all the consequences. I hope the wise and good on your side
will pity and forgive us. The house is now pushing on the public busi-
ness for which we were called here at this time; but before we depart,
our measures will be settled and agreed on. The plan proposed is exten-
sive; it is wise, and I hope, under God, it will not fail of success.
America possesses virtue unknown and unfelt by the abominable sons of
corruption, who planned this weak and wicked enterprize.
July 13. Letters from Lisbon, dated the 18th of June last, mention that
within a fortnight upwards of forty sail of ships from America, all laden
with corn, had arrived there, which they were in hopes would greatly lower
the markets.
In a private letter from Holland is the following passage: “From all the
manoeuvres of the king of Prussia, our politicians prognosticate, that the theatre
of war will be changed, that the war which is looked on to be extinguished
between the Russians and the porte will embroil other powers, and kindle ano-
ther war, which may possibly be more general and prove more fatal than the
present.
A few days since a cause was tried at Guidhall upon the strength and justice
of a policy of insurance upon the life of the last Mr. H———-, the member
for M———n. Among other evidence, a foreigner, who knew Mr. H———
abroad, was asked what he thought of his health: He answered he thought
him ver bad, going, going. Being asked more particularly as to his state a
month or three weeks previous, he replied he thought him quite dead. A
question was then put to him by the counsel to know if Mr. H——— eat heartily
of English roast beef: He said no, he chiefly lived on English soup. An
explanation being demanded, he said, “by English soup, I mean vat you call
ponch which Mr. H——— took in very great quantity.”
July 14. A person at Paris is said to have a timepiece, which by the use
of a particular spring will go without winding up.
Two new French men of war of the line were launched at St. Maloes the
21st of the last month, five feet longer in keel than any ships of the same rate in
their navy, with an additional breadth of beam proportioned, in order to
carry a superior weight of metal.
They write from Jamaica that two Spanish men of war, one of 64 and
the other of 50 guns, together with a ship belonging to New England, are
lost in a gale of wind in the Gulph of Florida, and their crews perished.
It was on Wednesday night reported, at the west end of the town, that
orders were the same day sent from the admiralty for four sail of men of war
of the line and two frigates, to be fitted out immediately for the West
Indies.
What a strange opinion, says a correspondent, must foreign nations conceive
of the English from what they read in our public prints! At one time they
read that there are men so mad that they will suffer themselves to be bit by
vipers, and be viewed in all the agonies of death, another swallows stones as
big as swan’s eggs, a third eats a mess of boiling pitch and tar for the enter-
tainment of his curious countrymen, and what is still more strange, they read
that these wretches have had the honour of performing before the nobility and
gentry, to the astonishment and entertainment of all beholders; another paper
publishes dreams of a crazy boatman, who persuades himself he can sink a
vessel in a hundred feet water, and remain with her at the bottom of the sea
for 12 hours, and then rise with her to the top alive and merry, and the won-
der of the jockey club; the next paper informs the reader, the nobility, and
gentry, that is to say the catalogue in the sporting calendar, are divided about
the feasibility of the undertaking, that many thousands are laid on the success
of it, and the most knowing man in the calendar has expended fifteen hundred
pounds in building a wooden egg to enclose this addle-pated adventurer; in a
few days the censorious Frenchman reads an account of the vessel’s being sunk
with a man in it as merry as a chirping chicken just going to be hatched, that
hundreds waited with impatience for 24 hours in expectation of his rising again,
and the great spectator from the admirably, as well as the whole town of
Plymouth, were astonished that the project should miscarry!
Last summer as the late William Hawke, the highwayman, was riding
along the Kentish road, he met a likely woman, with whom, after some
conversation, he retired to an adjacent corn field, where they had not
long been before they were disturbed by the appearance of the avaricious
farmer, who, in a great rage, insisted on 5s. damage for their beating
down his corn: Hawke, after some hesitation, put his hand in his
pocket, and taking out a guinea, desired the latter to give him change,
when the farmer eagerly seized the guinea, and at the same time pulled
a bag out of his pockets, in which was upwards of 20£. in gold and silver,
which Hawke no sooner perceived than he presented a pistol, and after
robbing him of the whole sum, mounted his horse, and rode off with his
booty.
Saturday night a man in Oldstreet Road undertook to eat a shoulder of
lamb of five pounds, and five cauliflowers, for a wager of two guineas,
besides bets to the amount of more than forty pounds. The glutton won
his wager.
A plan is now in agitation for the better establishment and protection
of the trade on the African and Guiney coasts; and we hear a greater
naval force is intended in future to be kept in that quarter for that pur-
pose.
We hear that one of the vacant blue ribbands, and the lieutenancy of
a neighbouring kingdom, have been separately offered to two noble dukes,
who are near relations, which were both peremptorily refused, the first
with a loud observation “that his honour was not low enough to be bound
by a garter.”
It is said that a noble lord, lately deceased, two hours before his death,
called up his second son, and made it his last request that he would re-
nounce gaming, concluding with these words: “Permit a dying, affecti-
onate father, Charles, to advise you in this; in every thing else you are
very capable of advising yourself.”
A great personage assisted by some of the most eminent chiefs of the
law, is now absolutely making a revision of the penal laws of this king-
dom, which are to be laid before parliament at their next meeting.
July 15. In our proceedings against the Americans we should consider
that arbitrary taxation is plunder, authorized by law, and the support
and essence of tyranny. To conceive what misery this right of taxation
is capable of producing in a provincial government, we need only recol-
lect, that our countrymen in India have, in the space of five or six years,
by virtue of this right, destroyed, starved, and driven away, more inha-
bitants from Bengal than are to be found at present in all our American
colonies. This is not exaggeration, but a plain, absolute matter of fact,
collected from the accounts sent over by governor Hastings.
It is lamented by every man capable of feeling for the honour of his
countrymen that a general emulation prevails among our young nobility
to violate morality, insult justice, oppress virtue, and degrade the cha-
racters of Britons.
On Sunday a dreadful fray began, and continued Monday and Tuesday,
between the English and Irish haymakers employed in the neighbourhood
of Hyde, Mill Hill, Hendon, and other places adjacent to the Edgward
road. The quarrel is said to have arisen from the circumstance of the
Irish working under the usual wages, and dangerously wounding an
English haymaker, which being resented by his countrymen, who assem-
bled in great numbers, unanimously drove the Irish every where before
them. Several on both sides have ben dangerously wounded, and a man,
woman, and child, are said to have lost their lives in the confusion.
BOSTON, August 29.
The spirit of the people was never known to be so great since the
first settlement of the colonies as at this time. People in the
country, for hundreds of miles, are prepared and determined to DIE or
be FREE!
A letter from Brookfield, dated August 24, says: “This day met in
this town 26 commissioned officers, in colonel Murray’s regiment, under
their hands respectively,
WITH GREAT SECRECY, this morning, half after 4, about 260
troops embarked on board 13 boats at the long wharf, and proceeded up
Mystic river to Temple’s farm, where they landed, and went to the
powderhouse in Cambridge, whence, they have taken 250 half barrels of
powder (the whole store there) which is to be brought to Boston, and
deposited in the magazine here. A grand manoeuvre this! It is said they
have also seized the powder belonging to the town of Charlestown.
A fire broke out at Salem yesterday morning, about 2 o’clock, which
consumed 4 or 5 shops, occupied by coopers, a blacksmith, &c. together
with a large warehouse, belonging to captain George Dodge, containing
a quantity of molasses, about 500 bushels of corn, &c. a great part of
which were destroyed. Three valuable distil houses, besides other large
buildings, were in imminent danger, but by the vigilance of the inha-
bitants, with a supply of water, they were happily preserved.
Yesterday arrived at Marblehead captain Perkins, from Baltimore, with
3000 bushels of Indian corn, 20 barrels of rye meal, and 21 barrels of
bread, sent by the inhabitants of that place for the benefit of the poor of
Boston, together with 1000 bushels of corn from Annapolis sent in the
same vessel, and for the same benevolent purpose.
We learn from Worcester, that on Saturday morning last there assem-
bled on the common, in the town, 1500 people, and made choice of 5
of their number as a committee, viz. Messieurs Joseph Gilbert, John
Goulding, Edward Rawson, Thomas Dennie, and Joshua Biglow, to
wait on the honourable Timothy Paine, esquire, lately appointed coun-
cellor by mandamus from his majesty, to demand of him satisfaction to
the people for having qualified himself for said office; and having waited
on Mr. Paine accordingly, he asked them what satisfaction they wanted:
They answered, a total resignation of his office, and desired him to write
it. Upon which he withdrew, and in a few minutes retuned to them
with what he had wrote, which was a total resignation of his office, and
a promise never to sit again as councellor, unless agreeable to charter;
he then asked if that was satisfactory? They replied that he must wait
upon the people, which he thought unreasonable, after he had complied
with their demand; but they said it was in vain; unless he made his
personal appearance, the people would not be satisfied; and after their
promising to protect him from insult, he waited on them to the body of
the people, where Mr. Dennie’s resignation was read, with which num-
bers were dissatisfied, requiring that Mr. Paine should read it himself,
and that with his hat off. He then told the committee that he had
complied with all they required, on their promising him protection, and
that he then called upon them for it; but they gave him to understand
the people would not be satisfied till he complied with their demand,
which he did, and was then conducted near to his own house by the
committee, and dismissed. The people then drew off, those of each
town forming a company, and marched for Rutland, the town in which
the honourable John Murray, esquire (another new councellor) resides.
Our informant could give us no farther information how they proceeded.
A correspondent says the province will never rest while one man, who
has accepted any office under the sanction of the new acts of parliament,
is possessed of any one post of power or profit in the country, and until
every one of them, by great penitance, obtain forgiveness, or leave Ame-
rica, and until all your addressers to Hutchenson have, by humbling
themselves regained the good-will of the country, and the city of Boston
in particular, or else are removed off the continent.
A PROPOSAL from different parts of the country. It is proposed
that an estimate should be formed by indifferent people of the value of all
the real estates in Boston, that so if the estates in it should be sunk in
their value by the port bill’s continuing to be enforced, or should other-
wise be ruined by the rage of our common enemies, the country might
be able to form a judgment of the retribution that should be made to the
sufferers.———This does honour to the public virtue of our country.
We hear from Dartmouth, that when brigadier Ruggles passed through
that town last week, he was waited upon at colonel Toby’s, where he
put up, by a number of people, who desired him forthwith to depart,
which he promised he would do; but before he departed, they left marks
of resentment upon his horse, whose mane and tail they cut off, and
painted him in a curious manner.
SALEM, August 26.
ON the 20th of this instant printed notifications were posted up in
this town, desiring the merchants, freeholders, and other inhabi-
tants, to meet at the townhouse chamber last Wednesday at 9 o’clock in
the morning, to appoint deputies to meet at Ipswich on the 6th of Sep-
tember next, with the deputies of the other towns in the county, to
consider of, and determine on, such measures as the late act of parlia-
ment, and our other grievances, render necessary and expedient. These
notifications purported that it was the desire of the committee of corre-
spondence that the inhabitants should thus assemble. On Wednesday
morning, at 8 o’clock, the governor sent a request to the committee,
that they would meet him at 9 o’clock, telling them he had something
of importance to communicate to them. They waited upon him accord-
ingly, and were asked by him if they avowed those notifications: Being
answered, that it was known they were posted by order of the committee,
he then desired them to disperse the inhabitants, who being assembled
by them, they must abide all the consequences. It was answered, that
the habitants being met together, would do what they thought fit,
and that the committee could not oblige them to disperse. His excel-
lency declared it was an unlawful, seditious meeting. It was replied,
neither the committee nor the inhabitants supposed the meeting was con-
trary even to the act of parliament, much less to the laws of the pro-
vince. The governor returned, I am not going to conversation on the
matter; I came to execute the laws, not to dispute them, and I am
determined to execute them; if the people do not disperse, the sheriff
will go first; if he is disobeyed, and needs support, I will support him.
The governor had ordered troops to be in readiness; they prepared accord-
ingly, as if for battle, left their encampment, and marched to the en-
trance of the town, there halted and loaded, and then about 80 advanced
within an eighth of a mile from the town house; but before this move-
ment of the troops was known to the inhabitants, and while the com-
mittee were in conferrence with the governor, the whole business of the
meeting was transacted, being merely to chuse delegates for the county
meeting. After the meeting was over, news came that the troops were
on the march; but they were now ordered to return to the camp.
Yesterday Peter Frye, esquire (by express orders from the governor, as
he declared to the committee) issued a warrant for arresting the com-
mittee of correspondence, for unlawfully and seditiously causing the people
to assemble by that notification, without leave from the governor, in
open contempt of the laws, against the peace, and the statute in that
case made and provided. Two of the committee, who were first arrest-
ed, recognized, each in one hundred pounds, without sureties, to appear
at the next superior court at Salem, to answer to the above mentioned
charge. The rest of the committee, who were arrested some time after,
have refused to recognize.
NEW YORK, September 5.
EARLY on Monday morning last JOHN JAY, esquire (without the
inhabitants being apprized of his departure) set out from this city,
to attend the congress at Philadelphia; and on Thursday the 1st instant
the other four delegates took their departure for the like laudable purpose.
ISAAC LOW, esquire, being under the necessity of going by way of
Powles Hook, was escorted to the Ferry Stairs by a considerable number
of respectable inhabitants, with colours flying, music playing, and loud
huzzas at the end of each street. When they got down to the river, he,
in a very polite manner, took leave of the inhabitants, six of whom
accompanied him and his lady over, with music, playing God save the
King. The inhabitants then returned to the coffeehouse, in order to
testify the like respect to the other three gentlemen viz. JAMES
DUANE, PHILIP LIVINGSTON, and JOHN ALSOP, esquires.
About half past nine the procession began, and was conducted in like
manner as above. When they arrived at the Royal Exchange (at which
place they embarked) James Duane, esquire, in a very affectionate and
moving manner, thanked the worthy inhabitants for the honour they
had conferred upon them, declaring for his own part, and he had it in
command from the whole of his brother delegates, to acquaint them that
nothing in their power should be wanting to relieve this once happy, but
now aggrieved country. When the gentlemen got under way, they were
saluted by several pieces of cannon, mounted on this joyous occasion,
which was answered by a greater number from St. George’s ferry; these
testimonials, and three huzzas, bid them go and proclaim to all nations,
that they, and the virtuous people they represent, dare defend their rights
as PROTESTANT ENGLISHMEN! After the gentlemen had got a
little distance from town, a considerable number went to St. George’s
Ferry, to celebrate their departure, dating the salvation of the colonies
from that hour; well knowing in whom they have placed the greatest
confidence that ever men were entrusted with. There were many loyal,
constitutional, and spirited toasts drank, sealed with frequent discharges
of cannon, and attended with this declaration, that each and every of
them solemnly avowed they would support at the risk of every thing sacred
and dear, such resolutions as our delegates, in conjunction with those worthy
gentlemen of the other colonies, should think necessary to adopt for the good of
the common cause. The day was concluded with, God save the King.
September 8. We learn from Morris county, in New Jersey, that a
farmer in that neighbourhood lately voided a worm that measured 21
feet, and that it was supposed it had not all come away.
Extract of a letter from East Haddam, dated September 5.
GENTLEMEN,
”We have just now received intelligence, by the return of an express,
which was sent on purpose, who informs us that he met several compa-
nies returning, but he still proceeded as far as Lebanon, where he saw
and received certain intelligence from governor Trumbull’s sons, who
went from here, and marched as far as Pomfret, where they had the
pleasure to find that the alarm of an engagement having happened was
premature. We rejoice with you, and the rest of your brethren, on
this joyful occasion. HUMPHREY LYON, for self,
and the committee of correspondence.
To captain James Hazelton, and the rest of the inhabitants of the town of
HADDAM.
Yesterday, by a gentleman just arrived from Boston, we received the
following intelligence in a printed hand bill.
The following is a copy of a LETTER said to be wrote by general
Brattle to the commander in chief, viz.
CAMBRIDGE, August 26, 1774.
”MR. Brattle presents his duty to his excellency governor Gage; he
apprehends it is his duty to acquaint his excellency from time to time of
every thing he hears and knows to be true and is of importance in these
troublesome times, which is the apology Mr. Brattle makes for troubling
the general with this letter. Captain Minot, of Concord, a very worthy
man, this minute informed Mr. Brattle that there had been repeatedly
made pressing applications to him to warn his company to meet at one
minute’s warning, equipped with arms and ammunition, according to
law; he had constantly denied them, adding, if he did not gratify them
he should be constrained to quit his farms and town. Mr. Brattle told
him he had better do that than lose his life and be hanged for a rebel.
He observed that many captains had done it, though not in the regiment
to which he belongs, which was and is under colonel Elisha Jones, but
in a neighbouring regiment.
Mr. Brattle begs leave humbly to quere, whether that it would not
be best that there should not be one commission officer of the militia in
the province.
This morning the select men of Medford came and received their town
stock of powder, which was in the arsenal on Quarry Hill, so that there
is now therein the king’s powder only, which shall remain there as a
sacred depositum till ordered out by the captain general.
To his excellency general Gage, &c. &c.
Extract of a letter from Boston, dated September 2.
”In consequence of the foregoing letter a party of 250 regulars set out
early yesterday morning to secure and bring away the powder alluded to,
which was effected without loss or damage. At the same time a party of
30 are said to have seized two field pieces belonging to the Cambridge re-
giment of militia. The report of this manoeuvre, exaggerated no doubt
in the country, brought this morning, on Cambridge common, at least
3000 people from different parts of the country, in order to learn the
truth of the matter. They were unarmed, and demanded the public
resignation of two counsellors, inhabitants of Cambridge, which was
complied with; and after chusing several persons to stop the great num-
bers coming in from the distant parts, said to be many thousands, and
being satisfied that the governor had seized only the king’s powder, they
peaceably dispersed. You cannot conceive what an uneasy day we have
had, from the different reports circulated in this town, some of which
were of the most alarming nature, and by credulous people easily swallow-
ed. But I can find nothing new, unless it be the strengthening the
guards at the entrance of the town. It is said the governor is deter-
mined not to risk any troops in the country till he is reinforced, being
apprehensive of their loss from the amazing number and fury of our
people, who are all provided with arms and ammunition, &c.”
We learn from the Boston papers that the gentlemen summoned to
serve on the grand and petty juries under the parliamentary establishment
have unanimously refused to be sworn, and that after many difficulties,
the court received, read, and returned to them, the papers which they
had brought and signed, containing the reasons of their refusal, grounded
on the impeachment of the chief justice by the assembly of this province,
and the act of parliament for the dissolution of their charter.
Extract of a letter from London, dated July 16.
”I received your’s, and it afforded me great satisfaction to hear that
you are so well determined in all the colonies; but a report prevails in
London that New York will not assist Boston, for they consider them as
a set of refractory rebels, &c. The lord mayor, high sheriff, and com-
mon council, have done all in their power to save themselves and you,
but their only hopes are now that you will save them by preserving your-
selves. As the honour and safety of all America are at stake, I hope in
God that you may act with fidelity to each other, by which means you will
convince the world that you are worthy the privileges you enjoy. America
seems to be the only place where public honesty and public virtue are to be
found on earth; all other places are sunk into a state of abject destress
and bondage. The very thoughts of your congress alarm your enemies
more than every thing else. It is expected that they will remonstrate
against the Canada bill, &c. Captain B———— wrote a letter to his
friend in London that has alarmed them considerably. The king has seen
it; and it is intended to buy him off. They hope to silence every body
of any influence by such vile means; but I trust they will be disap-
pointed.”
PHILADELPHIA, September 12.
Extract of a letter from a very respectable character in London to a gentle-
man in this city, dated July 5, 1774.
THE present state of political affairs furnishes nothing less disagree-
able than my last informed. The Quebec bill, we apprehend,
will produce the most distressing jealousies among the protestant inhabi-
tants of that country, and, indeed, of all America. With us the
staunchest friends to the Hanoverian succession have not scrupled publicly
to pronounce it the most daring stretch of the prerogative of the crown,
and the most sinful violation of the rights of a free people, that the an-
nals of Britain, or any other nation in the world, register! Enclosed
you have the address and petition of the lord mayor, aldermen, and com-
mons, of this city, to his majesty, which is considered one of the grandest
and most spirited addresses ever handed to a throne, insomuch that many
hundreds of them, elegantly framed and glazed have been purchased as
household pictures by the nobility, gentry, &c. to transmit to future ages
the virtuous sincerity, and honest boldness, of so respectable a body of
men. The coin of prophecies is now become current here, and we have
too much reason to fear that some presage, of dreadful import, will, ere
long be realized. Very much, all, indeed, depend on the hardihood
and public virtue of the Americans. If the brave Bostonians maintain
theirs, at this trying juncture, all will be well; for their conduct will
furnish a criterion whereby to regulate government here, in a judgment
of the success of the iniquitous measures they purpose adopting through-
out America. It is strongly imagined that many presses, I mean printing
presses, in the colonies, are at present fettered by golden chains, sent over
by the ministry for that purpose. One or two to the northward of you
have been publicly mentioned; but as a little time must discover the truth
or falsity of this suspicion, I shall forbear entering into particulars. The
public prints from your city, as well as those from Virginia, are in
admired request with all ranks of people, except the tools of despotism;
but should the ministry succeed in the enterprizes they have already under-
taken, with respect to the colonies, you will assuredly be robbed of that
darling privilege, the freedom of the press; for effecting which, a scheme,
I am well informed, is now agitating in cabinet, upon a new plan, lately
hatched by a certain lord, whose name is always opposite to the sun in
its meridian, and who has publicly declared that he is determined strenu-
ously to oppose the meridian of your glory in the western world.”
Extract of another letter from London.
”As to news, we are daily execting it from your side the water. The
measures pursued here make every friend of liberty tremble; for what
has been done with regard to the colonies is only a specimen of what pro-
bably will be enforced at home, and, indeed, there have been too many
similar instances. It is truly astonishing that the nobility and gentry of
England should concur in them as they have done. The setting aside
antient establishments and charters, which were held sacred, taxing and
levying subsidies, forcing money from the pockets of a people without
their consent, authorizing the civil or French laws and trials without
jury, judgment resting wholly in the capricious breast of the judge, the
creature of the tyrant, robing men of the personal rights by taking
away the habeus corpus, fitting their consciences by establishing a priestly
popish religion, giving the whole nomination, choices, rule, management,
and power, into the arbitrary, despotic hands, of the crown, could never
have been conceived, and ought never to have been established by Eng-
lishmen. See the influences of offices, places, and pensions! How totally
dependent on the crown are those who ought to be the guardians of the
peoples liberties! I cannot omit saying, that however violent and abusive
some may be against the Americans, you find there are others who think
differently. The Bostonians, and the whole colony of the Massachusetts
Bay, are cruelly used, deprived of their natural rights and liberties. The
revenue to be established is only a provision for myrmidons, placemen,
and pensioners, despotically disposed of among tools and dependents, as
here where continual steps advance, and encrease the power of the ministry,
and influence of the crown and prerogative. Witness what is done in
Iceland with their stamp act; our East India company also, which is now
wholly under the thumb of administration, their charter broke in upon;
witness the refusal of the reasonable request of the petitioning clergy,
and continuing the cruel, unjust penal laws, against the dissenters; West-
minster special jurors under undue influence in all crown causes; for every
independent man will endeavour to edge off, and get himself excused if
possible, to prevent being shut up with a majority of determined courtiers,
inflexible biassed on the crown side. Thus the edges of our liberty are
paring away, and the foundations sapping, and we are going the way of
other nations.
”The independent man, who is at ease, quietly enjoying the repose
his circumstances entitle him to, cannot but be apprehensive of danger,
when such measures are perpetrated; he cannot help fearing that the
lawless power of court and time serving parasites should overbear and
oppress him by inequitable and unjust laws and arbitrary mandates, whilst
the cruel hand of military force despoil and rob him both of his property
and his freedom; see the recent instances of Sweden, Poland, Dantzick,
&c. May a noble and generous courage inspire the friends of liberty,
in support of the natural rights of mankind, as well here as with you!”
Extract of a letter from New York, dated September 7.
”Captain Webster is just now arrived from Newport. With him came
passenger a gentleman from Boston, which place he left on Saturday last,
and declares that every thing was peaceable and quiet.”
WILLIAMSBURG.
FRIDAY, September 23.
THE northern post, who arrived this afternoon, has brought nothing
material more than what we before received by a private hand,
which we have given our readers pretty fully. Lord Chatham’s speech is
at last published, and, as we before suggested, he has proved himself still
that able and earnest advocate for the rights of America which he formerly
did, notwithstanding the paltry insinuations of a few, who would injure
the most perfect character under Heaven to answer a private end.
The Peter, captain Land, in seven weeks from Glasgow, in arrived in
James river.
To be SOLD, at the seat of the late Mrs. Tate, in Jockey’s Neck,, on
Thursday the 29th of September,
ALL the HOUSEHOLD and KITCHEN FURNITURE, with the
stock of CATTLE, HORSES, HOGS, and SHEEP. The
houshold furniture consists of valuable beds well furnished, neat chairs,
tables, and desks, with many other articles too tedious to mention.
There are among the cattle several yoke of work steers, and many extra-
ordinary milch cow. Also will be sold, at the same time, a CHARIOT.
Credit will be allowed till the 25th of April 1775, for all sums above
twenty shillings, on giving bond, with approved security; all debts that
are not discharged at the above mentioned time, to carry interest from the
date of the bonds. The sale will begin at 10 o’clock in the morning.
NORFOLK, September 13, 1774.
I DO hereby give notice that the partnership of Hargraves and Orange
is dissolved by mutual agreement, Mr. Hargraves having purchased
my part of the stock, and has taken the whole on himself. Those who
have any demands against the said concern are desired to apply to Mr.
Hargraves. (3) WILLIAM ORANGE.
RUN away from the subscriber, lying on Byrd Creek, in Goochland
county, on Saturday the 9th of July, SAMUEL GREGORY,
alias NAILING, an apprentice, about 18 years of age, swarthy com-
plexion, thin visage, grey eyes, a down, inoffensive look, shews his teeth
much when he laughs, his short sandy coloured hair, round shouldered,
and stoops in his walk; had on an oznabrig shirt and trowsers. I have
been credibly informed he sent to Loudoun county, or some of the coun-
ties adjacent. I expect he will employ himself in the carpenter’s busi-
ness, as he has been in that branch for 3 years past. Whoever brings
him to me shall have FIVE POUNDS.
t f TURNER ANDER SON
RUN away from the subscriber, living in Nansemond county, near
Suffolk town, a negro woman named MILLA, who has been absent
ever since the year 1768; she has a scar upon the back part of each of
her hands, near her little fingers, and another on the top of one of her
feet, is about 4 feet 6 inches high, and about 20 years old. I am told
she has been in Norfolk; and I am also informed that at the house of Mr.
Thomas Husk, between Rappahannock and Potowmack rivers, there is a
wench that calls herself free Milla, who may probably be the same.
TEN POUNDS will be given to the person who will bring her to
JOHN HARRISON, junior.
TAKEN up, in Southampton, a black horse, about 4 feet 4 inches
high, near 12 years old, branded on the near buttock in the form of
a heart, and has the scar of a fistula. Posted, and appraised to SIX
POUNDS.
LUCY TAYLOR.
THERE is remaining in Byrd’s warehouse, Henrico county, a
hogshead of TOBACCO, marked M W G, No. I, weighing
912 gross, 107 tare, 805 neat. The owner’s name is not known. It
was inspected July 1, in the year 1771, and will be sold according to
law, if no owner claims it within the limited time.
4 SAMUEL and ROBERT PRICE.
ALL persons are hereby forewarned from HAWKING or FOWLING
upon Martin’s Swamp, in Chesterfield county; as also from FISH-
ING therein. 5 RICHARD RANDOLPH.
RUN away from the subscriber, about the 20th of April last, a mu-
latto 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 Glon-
cester, with whom he lived one or two years; he then run away, and
passed for a free man in the counties of King William, Caroline, and Ha-
nover, 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 neigh-
bourhood; 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 Osborne’s, shall receive FORTY SHILLINGS reward. All
persons are forbid harbouring or carrying him out of the colony.
PETERFIELD TRENT.
STAYED from the subscriber, the 10th of May last, a dark bay mare,
about 4 feet 6 inches high, not branded, has a mealy nose, thick
mane, and long switch tail, strong made, has good courage, paces, trots,
and gallops. THIRTY SHILLINGS will be given to any person that
will deliver her to the subscriber, in King & Queen, or to Mr. David
Anderson, junior, merchant in Louisa, where she was bred.
3 MATTHEW ANDERSON, junior.
COMMITTED to Spotsylvania gaol a negro man, about 30 years of
age, named MOSES, says he is a free man, and that he served part
of his time with one John Arnold, in Hanover county, against whom he
commenced suit for his freedom, but before it was determined, he was
attached by Garland Anderson and Samuel Temple, of the same county,
and then made his elopement from them. Any person proving his pro-
perty, and paying charges, may have him, otherwise I shall proceed as
the law directs. JACOB WHITLER, gaoler.
TAKEN up, in Chesterfield, a bay mare, about 10 years old, 4 feet 5
inches high, a large star in her forehead, and has a white streak
leading towards her nose, two of her feet white, has some saddle spots,
and branded on the near buttock I C. Posted, and appraised to 8£.
WILLIAM AKIN.
TAKEN up, in Spotsylvania, a black steer, with two crops and an
underkeel in the right ear, and a hole in the left. Posted, and ap-
praised to 1 £. 15s. () MARY PENN.
WILLIAMSBURG, September 6, 1774.
I BEG leave to inform the public, and particularly those gentlemen
who were pleased to take my subscription papers to their respective
counties, to raise a small sum of money for the encouragement of making
SALT, that after viewing many places on this and the other side of the
bay, and on the sea coast of the Eastern Shore, I have now fixed on a
convenient spot, on that coast, for erecting proper works; and as nothing
more can be done on my part without money, I must beg the favour of
them to forward such sums, as they may be able to collect, to Robert
Carter Nicholas, esquire, who is so kind as to take the trouble of receiving
and paying the money out to me. Proper security shall be lodged in his
hands for any sum that I may draw. The certainty of being able to make
salt as good as any whatever is hardly to be doubted, from the several
experiments which I have made, and which are pretty fully certified by
gentlemen of veracity, whose certificates will be lodged in the hands of
Mr. Nicholas. The gentlemen will readily see the necessity I am under
of requesting speedy assistance, when I inform them that I have for some
time past devoted my whole attention to this business, and given over
every pursuit from whence my family might have derived any advantage,
and that, in order to put the works in as great a forwardness as it was in
my power, I have incurred a considerable expence, and been obliged to
contract for some of the necessary materials.
JAMES TAIT.
WILLIAMSBURG, September 6, 1774.
MR. TAIT having produced to me a sample of salt made on the
Eastern Shore, together with a certificate of a gentleman of un-
questionable credit, I have no doubt, with proper encouragement, of his
succeeding in his proposed scheme, from which it seems highly probable
that this country will reap the greatest advantage: I shall, therefore,
most chearfully comply with his request, and take great pleasure in con-
tributing every thing in my power towards carrying it into execution.
RO. C. NICHOLAS.
WILLIAMSBURG, September 2, 1774.
THE subscriber, who is immediately going for England, desires all
persons indebted to him, by bond or otherwise, to pay what they
owe to Mr. Robert Prentis, of this city, who is properly empowered as
attorney for (3) GEORGE PITT.
TAKEN up, near Occoquon, in Fairfax, a bay mare colt, about 3 or
4 years old, about 13 hands high, trots and paces, and has neither
mark or brand. Posted, and appraised to 8 £. 10 s.
GILBERT ROWLAND.
THE subscriber has now for sale, at the falls called Ellison’s, or at
Warwick, on James river, a large quantity of PIT COAL, very
fine either for grates or smiths work, and shall be glad to supply any per-
son, at either place, at the usual prices, which are 10d. per bushel at
Warwick, and 6d. at the pits, ready cash; however, a few months cre-
dit will make but little difference, provided good merchants notes are
given, punctually to be settled at the time agreed on. Those gentlemen
from below, who may favour me with their orders, are desired to lodge
them with Mr. Daniel Weisiger, who lives at the spot, and, as formerly,
will be punctual in complying with them.
3 FRANCIS SMITH, junior.
WARWICK, September 1, 1774.
THE store here, of late kept by me on account of Messieurs Dreg-
born, Murdock, and company, of Glasgow, is now in the charge
of my brother David Leitch,and the said company’s store in Prince Ed-
ward county, hitherto managed by Mr. Henry Benskin Lightfoot, is under
the direction of Mr. John Graham.</em,> The business of the stores will, on
the same account, be prosecuted so far to their usual extent as the situ-
ation of public affairs will admit. The debts due to this store I continue
to collect, and those contracted with Mr. Lightfoot will remain with
him for the some purpose. It will be deemed obliging in those whose
accounts are open, and inconvenient to discharge, immediately to close
them by bond, or such specialty as may be approved of.
(3) JOHN LEITCH.
JAMES HALDANE,
COPPERSMITH AND BRASSFOUNDER,
in CHURCH STREET, near the CHURCH, NORFOLK,
CONTINUES TO CARRY ON HIS BUSINESS AS USUAL,
MAKES and sells all sorts of COPPER WORK, viz. stills,
brewing coppers, sugar boilers, fullers and hatters coppers, brass
mill work, capuchin plate warmers, tea kitchins, all sorts of ship, fish,
and wash kettles, stew pans, Dutch ovens, tea kettles, sauce pans, coffee
and chocolate pots, &c. at the most reasonable rates. He gives the best
prices for old copper, brass, pewter, or lead.
*** Those who are so obliging as to favour m e with their employ in
the mending or tinning old work, may depend on having them soon
done, and in the neatest and compleatest manner.
To be SOLD, to the highest bidder, on Thursday the 29th of September,
if fair, otherwise the next fair day, on the premises,
A VALUABLE TRACT of LAND in the lower end of Bgunswick
county at Taylor’s bridge, containing by estimation 8 or 900 acres,
but which shall be surveyed before the day of sale, and the exact quantity
ascertained. There are 4 or 500 acres of this tract fine rich low grounds
on Meherrin river, and exceedingly well adapted for Indian corn, wheat,
or tobacco, as also for raising of hogs, there having been considerable
quantities of pork sold from this plantation for several years past. It
has plenty of timber upon it, with land enough cleared to work 10 or
12 hands, and is convenient to church and mill. One half the purchase
money to be paid next April, and a reasonable credit will be allowed for
the remainder, on giving bond, and approved security, to
SAMUEL S. M’CROSKEY.
***The greatest part of the stock, utensils, &c. belonging to the
said plantation, will be sold at the same time and place.
FOR SALE,
A TRACT of LAND, containing upwards of 3000 acres, in the
county of Richmond, upon Rappahannock river, opposite to the seat
of Robert Beverley, esquire, extending more than 2 miles upon the river;
the land is extremely well timbered, a great part of it lies well, and is
equal to any in that part of the country. There are also, beside the
quantity of dry land above mentioned, between 4 and 500 acres of valua-
ble marsh, which may easily be reclaimed; a large water course running
through the greatest part of the tract affords a considerable quantity of
rich, valuable meadow land, and a good mill seat. There are also several
delightful situations for a gentleman’s seat, commanding extensive pros-
pects up and down the river, where the greatest plenty of fish and fowl
are to be had. A part of the tract is in possession of several tenants at
will, some of whom pay from 20£ to 25£. annual rent for 100 acres. It
will be sold (and may be entered upon next Christmas) either together,
or in parcels, by private bargain, at any time before the 10th of October,
and if not disposed of before that time (of which notice shall be published
in this gazette) it will then be offered for public sale, upon the premises,
on the 3d Monday in November. Twelve of 15 months credit will be
allowed, upon giving bond, with good security; to bear interest from the
25th of December. if the purchase money is not paid agreeable to the
contract. The terms will be made known to those who incline to pur-
chase privately, and the lands shewn, if required, and an undoubted title
made, by the subscriber, living in Westmoreland county.
10|| c 10 oct. WILLIAM BERNARD.
FREDERICKSBURG, August 9, 1774.
A PERSON of the name of William Foster Crosby having procurred a
recommendation to me, I lent him, the 19th of last month, my
SINGLE CHAIR and a MARE to visit captain John Lee, on Rappa-
hannock, to whom he said he was recommended, to return in four days
at the most; but not hearing of him since, except that he had mistaken
his way, and got to Richmond, on James river, and colonel William
Fleming’s, in Cumberland county, I am obliged to take this method of
recommending him to honest men, as a profound knave. Such a
flagrant act of injustice, accompanied with such ingratitude to me, will
no doubt engage every gentleman to endeavour to strip him of the price
of his villainy: But I will gladly pay FORTY SHILLINGS to have my
mare and chair detained till I can send for them, or FIVE POUNDS to
be delivered here. As the knave is young, I had rather he should turn
from his wickedness and live!
He is about twenty, of slim and genteel make, and fair complexion,
rather pale and foul skin, black hair, very long, and clubbed like
a macaroni! He is exceeding vain, boasts much of his learning, particu-
larly of geography, and professes teaching the classics, music, dancing,
and fencing; he grins much when he laughs, which he often does at his
own wit. His dress was shabby; I believe, one only coat, formerly a
pale blue, or sea green, the cuffs of which have been lately let down,
and the original colour makes a remarkable ring round his arm. He
passed on my friend, as from New England,and said he intended to visit
Virginia, in his way to Charlestown, South Carolina, in ooder from New
England to see the country; expecting here some supplies he had ordered
from New England.
I cannot recollect whether the mare has any brand or flesh marks; she
is about 14 hands and a half high, half blooded, well made, rather round,
a chesnut bay, with a full long bob tail, and hog mane, very small feet,
and shod before, trots very nimbly, and remarkably low. The carriage
of the chair is new, the springs and axletree are iron, the body is
painted green, with the initials of my name on the back, in a double
cypher, in blue letters, in a gilt ground; it has been new lined, and has
now a carpet bottom; but I suspect he will quit the chair for a saddle.
He borrowed a SILVER WATCH, quite new, made by Thomas
Walker, of Fredericksburg, who will, I presume, give something to re.
cover it. tf JAMES MERCER.
COMMITTED to the gaol of Charles City, on the 29th of August, a
likely fellow, about 5 feet 10 or 11 inches high, denies he has any
master, and has passed for several years as a free man, under the name of
Doctor Dick. The owner, if any, is desired to take him away, and pay
charges. 3 STITH GREGORY.
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 jo-
hannes, of nine penny weight, to be delivered by him at Quebec, and as
he has not yet made his appearance there, with other suspicious circum-
stances, it is apprehended he is gone off with the money. He is a native
of England, and 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 casmir, and a dark brown cloth suit of clothes. Whoever se-
cures 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 50£. when convicted. Apply to Cuson and Seton of New York,
Joseph Wharton, junior, of Philadelphia, Robert Christie of Baltimore,
James Gibson and company of Virginia, John Bondfield of Quebec, Me-
latiah 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 rout he has taken, that they convey the most
early intelligence thereof to any of the above persons, or Greenwood, Rit
son, and Marsh, in Norfolk, or to Mr. Robert Pleasants and company, at
Four Mile creek, Henrico county; the favour will be gratefully acknow-
ledged. All masters of vessels are forewarned from taking him off the
continent.
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 Flem-
ing, John Massey, and John Lain, are now in possession
of the plantations, who will shew the land to any person
inclinable to purchase, and Major Thomas Johnson will
agree with them for the price. The above tract is esteem-
ed 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 I * )
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 bult, with a
stone dam and a pair of good COLOGNE MILL-
STONES, which mill has for two years past got up-
wards 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. If
any person would chuse to exchange lands in the lower
part of the country, on or near some navigable river,
that are good, it is more than probably we should agree.
CARTER BRAXTON.
FOR SALE,
FIVE hundred acres of land, lying on Deep Creek, in
Louisa, about 45 miles of Richmond town, and is
exceeding good land, well watered by Deep Creek, and
a large branch thereof, which runs through the middle
of the land, and affords a large quantity of rich meadow
ground. Any person inclinable to purchase may see the
land, and know the terms, by applying to the subscriber,
living near it. tf I * GEORGE MERIWETHER.
To be SOLD, at public auction, at Westmoreland court-
house, on Tuesday the 27th day of September, being
Westmoreland court day,
TWENTY very likely VIRGINIA born SLAVES.
Credit will be allowed until the 10th of November
following, on giving bond and good security. The
bonds to bear interest from the date, if not punctually
discharged.
tdf RICHARD PARKER.
TO BE RENTED,
FROM YEAR TO YEAR, OR FOR A TERM OF YEARS,
BELLVOIR,
THE beautiful seat of the honourable George William
Fairfax, esquire, lying upon Potowmack river, in
Fairfax county, about 14 miles below Alexandria. The
mansion house is of brick, two story high, with four con-
venient 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 furnish-
ed 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 se—
veral valuable fisheries, and a good deal of cleared land
in different parts, which may be let altogether, or sepa-
rately, 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 FRACIS WILLIS, junior.
NORFOLK, April 21, 1774.
NOTICE is hereby given, that a number of vessels
will be wanted this summer to bring about 6000
tons of stone from Mr. Brooke’s quarry, on Rappahan-
nock, and land the same on Cape Henry, for the light-
house. Any person inclinable to engage in such work
are desired to treat with Matthew Phripp, Paul Layall,
and Thomas Newton, junior, esquires. The directors
of the lighthouse will also be glad to purchase one or
two flat bottomed vessels from 80 to 120 tons burthen.
tf BASSETT MOSELY.
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 with-
out 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 Appo-
mattox 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 wea-
ther, 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 inclinable 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 advantage-
ous 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.
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.
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. |