The Virginia Gazette

Extract of a letter dated White Marsh, Nov. 6, 1777.

Since my last, from Whipper camp, we have advanced the army to this place, about twelve miles from Philadelphia. Nothing, however, of any importance, has taken place in consequence. The enemy keep themselves close within their lines, which now extend from the Delaware to Schuylkill, and crosses about one mile above the town. Their principal object at present seems to be our forts below the city, on which they have made several unsuccessful attempts. Whilst they are in our possession, it separates them from their shipping, which must distress them greatly for want of provisions and other necessaries. We have daily accounts from town of a most distressing nature; the inhabitants are near starving. The head of an ox sold last Saturday in market for twenty shillings, and beef sells at one shilling and sixpence per pound.

The resolve of Congress declaring martial law to all who shall be found aiding and assisting them with provisions has had a valuable effect. Some few individuals, indeed, are still so rascally inclined as to risk their necks in support of them, and have at times found means to furnish them with small supplies of beef, &c. They have been at half allowance for some days, and till they do get their shipping up their situation in that respect cannot be much better. This makes me think they will try every effort to open the communication of the river. Our little garrisons have for these six weeks held out with uncommon bravery; and if the enemy cannot reduce them, they must give up the city.---A heavy cannonade has just opened upon our forts. My mind is entirely engaged on the success of these important posts.