The New Hampshire Gazette

LONDON, Jan. 1. The town of Malta was surprised the 6th ult. at the approach of a large ship of Turkish construction; having a white flag, with a crucifix at her mizen top, and a Turkish pendant embroidered with gold, that reached to the very sea. Boats were immediately sent off who were informed that it was a ship of the Grand Signor's, commanded by his admiral, and called the Ottoman Crown; that he sailed last June, with two frigates, five galleys, and other small vessels from the Dardanelles; that the abovementioned admiral had been with his ship only to Smyrna, Scio and Tino, and at length anchored off the island of Stanchio, where he and his retinue to the number of 30 persons, went on shore. The whole ship's complement was 700 men, but 400 being on shore the 19th of September, the remaining 300 were attacked and overpowered by 70 Christian slaves, armed only with a knife each; part being killed, part obliged to jump overboard, and the rest to sue for mercy. These heroes, now no longer slaves, bore away immediately for Malta, but were soon pursued by the two frigates and another ship, but by crowding sail, they escaped; and on the 8th, this ship, mounting 68 fine brass guns, but bored for 74, was brought safe into the harbour of Valetta, amidst the acclamations of the people. The order of Malta, as an encouragement to such brave fellows, has made them the sole proprietors of the ship and slaves, as well as of all the contribution money, which latter is said to amount to a million and half of florins, and other effects on board.