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The Virginia Gazette
Richmond, Williamsburg, Richmond County, Virginia
What is this article about?
Letter from St. Thomas's, Jan. 20, 1776, reports schooner Hope's arrival at St. Eustatia after crew sickness near New York, and French troop concentrations in Martinico (8000+3000 expected), Guadaloupe (5000), and Cape (8000), speculated to aid reconciliation between England and America.
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"The schooner Hope, Capt. Cunningham, arrived at St. Eustatia the 17th instant, after being within 30 hours sail of New York; but was obliged to bear away the 25th ult. the Captain, mate, and all the people on board being sick, except one man.
From good authority I can assure you, that 8000 troops are at Martinico, and every merchantman brings out from 25 to 50 soldiers. A fleet is daily expected with 3000 more for said place. 5000 troops are at Guadaloupe, and 8000 at the Cape. The intention of the French is, to let the troops from Europe arrive in America, and then they will unfold their designs. I imagine the Windward Islands and Jamaica will receive no benefit from these manoeuvres. I make no doubt but the French will be the means of bringing England and America to a reconciliation in these months, and heartily wish it may be done on honourable terms to both parties."
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Where did it happen?
Foreign News Details
Primary Location
Martinico
Event Date
Jan. 20, 1776
Key Persons
Outcome
crew sickness on schooner hope (all but one sick); french troop buildups: 8000 at martinico plus 3000 expected, 5000 at guadaloupe, 8000 at cape; speculated french role in england-america reconciliation.
Event Details
Schooner Hope under Capt. Cunningham arrived at St. Eustatia on Jan. 17, 1776, after nearing New York but diverting on Dec. 25, 1775, due to widespread sickness aboard. Reports confirm 8000 French troops at Martinico with more arriving via merchantmen and a fleet of 3000 expected; 5000 at Guadaloupe and 8000 at the Cape. French plan to await European troops in America before revealing intentions, potentially benefiting reconciliation between England and America, though Windward Islands and Jamaica may see no gain.