The New Hampshire Gazette

Blois, in France, April 11. There happened a very whimsical affair on the 2d inst. at Toulouse. Four Savoyard Chimney Sweepers having finished every thing in the way of their profession, and not having a penny left to provide either victuals or drink, took a resolution to list, which they executed about six in the Evening. The Captain gave them two Louis d'Ors a man, but thought it necessary, by way of precaution, to lock them into an empty kitchen, with several flaggons of wine. As long as the liquor lasted they were quiet enough, but as soon as it was exhausted, they began to think of making their escape. They were not long in settling that point; there was a large chimney before them, which they mounted with their usual dexterity, and being fairly got to the top of the house they there held a council of war, in which it was unanimously resolved to go down another chimney. The first tumbled into a great fire, out of which he jumped, covered with soot and dust, into the midst of the floor, and was immediately followed by his three companions. The place happened to be a gaming house, and the operators at the great table in the midst of the apartment, taking these adventurers for so many devils starting out of the fire, ran down stairs as fast as they could, and left their money, to the amount of twelve hundred livres behind them. This the Savoyards seized, and in an instant remounted the chimney, and running over the top of the house, descended again into their old apartment, just as the officer opened the door to bring them some provisions. They offered him his money again, with a reasonable profit, which was at last fixed for 25 Louis d'Ors for their discharge. The fellows are now here, and are very quietly returned to their old occupation.