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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

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treasures, without duly considering with what anxiety difficulties, and
dangers, the bulk of the people have acquired the small share of it they
possess. Again, a supply granted to the crown, which, with respect to
the enormous fortunes of the nobility, would scarce deserve the name of
liberality, might amount almost to a confiscation of the estates of the
lower ranks of people, and reduce thousands of their fellow subjects to
distress, poverty, and ruin. On the other hand, it is difficult to suppose,
that the representatives of the labouring or trading part of the nation
would, or could, be so extravagant in their supplies, as to injure the
estates of the nobility; and if such an unnatural case should exist, the
house of lords, by exercising their right of rejecting, would effectually
ward off the blow. But if they had a power of even altering a money
bill, they might model it in such a manner as to exonerate, in a great
measure, their own estates, and lay the whole burthen upon the commons,
or at least it would be a constant source of feuds and dissentions between
the two houses, which would offer, to an enterprising monarch, such
opportunities of ingratiating himself occasionally with each as might
endanger the constitution.*

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.

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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-

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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,

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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, &amp.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.

<pResolved, that the raising sheep, hemp, and flax, ought to be encouraged.

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.

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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

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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

Column 2

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, &amp.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, &amp.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.

Column 3

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.

Column 1

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.

Column 2

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.

Column 3

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, &amp.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.