The New Hampshire Gazette And Historical Chronicle

Extracts of some Letters received by the last Ships from London.

"I have the Pleasure to find every Day Friends to America; and great Apprehensions that the fatal Stroke intended against the Colonies, will turn out a Destruction to the Contrivers of it; a scene of a dreadful Disappointment to some Men, provided America acts unanimously.

All possible Means have been used to deceive the People here: who have been made confidently to believe that America would submit: But now some are alarmed.

The Wise and Good among us say, that the present Parliament have begun the Destruction of Great-Britain. these think with Sorrow on the Boston Port-Bill, and pity the People; and look upon it necessary that all the Colonies should engage in the Opposition to such Measures.

If the Colonies join with a manly Courage, all will end to the Honor and Advantage Of America. I have heard many Men of Wisdom and Goodness say, that should the People of America give up, they will not only be ruined themselves, but ruin us. Nothing will save England but the Americans behaving with Resolution, & breaking off all commercial Intercourse with Great-Britain.

All England is waiting to see the Result of the Congress. I tremble for the Uproar that their Determinations will make here. The People are made to believe that the Americans shall help to ease them of their Burdens; hence are more quiet under their own Troubles.

Soldiers are scattered all over England, & an Army as large as in Time of War, and a Discontent prevails through the Nation. Public Expenses dreadful—Luxury prevailing. The Church is quite deserted. Sins of the Nation are like those of Sodom, and Religion despised; Awful Times!

Estates taken into high Rents—Many Poor enlist into the Army to get Bread—Others wander from County to County—Bread scarce! Many live by begging, others rob, and every Month Numbers hanged. The Ruin of this Country seems as though it would come on soon—May the Almighty keep you from our Sins and our Plagues! Your Salvation and ours depends on your Firmness. Break off all Trade with us, then Interest will convince your Enemies of their Folly.

I have the Opportunity to know that the more resolute and prudent you all behave, the less violent will be your Oppressions."