The New Hampshire Gazette And Historical Chronicle

LONDON, July 27.

We learn by the Endeavour, from the South Seas, that they discovered a southern Continent, in the Latitude of the Dutch Spice Islands; that the People were hospitable, ingenious, and civil, of a Copper Complexion, but handsome and well made. Mr. Banks passed some Months amongst them: and tho' these People were so politely civilized, it is very extraordinary that they have no Kind of Worship of Religion amongst them. Two of the Natives came voluntarily with Mr. Banks, but died of the Flux at Batavia. From this Voyage we expect many Discoveries and Entertainment. They had an excellent Observation of the Transit of Venus; but the ingenious Mr. Green died upon his Return. Upon their Arrival, the Admiralty seized all the Officers Papers. In consequence of this Discovery more Ships will be destined in Search of this new terristrial Acquisition; and it is to be hoped the Ministry will select Men with Heads, as well as Hearts to accomplish such a Voyage.

Dr. Solander, and the other gentlemen, who lately sailed round the world in the Endeavour frigate, spent four months at George's Land, and of the new discovered islands. They learnt the language there, and two of the natives came with them to Batavia, where they were carried off by sickness, together with many of the crew, &c. The above gentlemen likewise touched at a great many other islands, not known to any other Europeans, but which have plenty of inhabitants; and they brought over with them a great number of different species of plants, most of which were never known in Europe before.