The Virginia Gazette

From the MADRID GAZETTE, Jan. 11, 1780.

Notwithstanding the authenticity of the account pretended to be given in England, in the Gazette, under the title of letters addressed to Lord George Germaine, and to the Secretary of the Admiralty, dated St. Fernando de Omoa, our doubts of the facts therein mentioned are justified by advices come to our hands, and which facts are known to every one.

"There was little occasion for surprise at the reduction of the fort of St. Fernando de Omoa, it being but a short time since it began to be built, and had been retarded by many accidents.

It is not probable that in a fort so little advanced there should have been found any artillery of consequence, nor a sufficient number of troops to withstand a regular attack. In consideration of the above, the Court of Spain had long since sent orders to carry up into the interior parts, all merchandizes and effects which should arrive in that port. As to the King's funds, it is known he had none; it was, therefore, impossible for the Governor to offer to ransom the fort. The funds which are intended for Europe are not ordinarily sent to Omoa; nor, in fine, no vessel with quicksilver has been sent to this province for years, it not being wanted there. From all which it results, that the English could not possibly have taken the rich prizes their Gazette pretends; and should be careful, in future, to let their relations be attended with more precision and truth."