The Virginia Gazette

We hear from good authority, that a number of persons in Tulpehocken and Bethel townships, in the county of Berks, who had entered into a wicked association to withhold their taxes, and oppose the collectors, were lately indicted at the court of oyer and terminer; but not choosing to put themselves on trial. they submitted, with many demonstrations of repentance and sorrow, to the mercy of the court. They were thereupon fined only 300 l. each, which, with the costs of suit, court-charges, fees to council, &c. was about five times the amount of the taxes they refused to pay. The court was induced to show more tenderness on the occasion, as it appeared that most of the delinquents had borne arms in the contest, and otherwise proved their attachment to their country, and were misled by the secret machinations of some designing persons, upon whom it is hoped the good people of Berks county will keep a jealous eye. The abhorrence shewn by the grand jury and other reputable inhabitants of that county, of such practices, does them much honour, and proves that, however individuals may be misled, the good old whig spirit (for which this county has been distinguished) still exists and flourishes. Our correspondent concludes with this remark, that, while British prisoners (of whom there are many in Berks county) are among us, we should ever remember, that we are informed, from the best authority in the world, that

Evil communication corrupts good manners.