The Virginia Gazette

Extract of a letter from an American Gentleman of character and discernment, in France, Dec. 28, 1778.

You will see in the British King's speech, under a studied appearance of moderate expression, the same disposition which has actuated their councils from the beginning; and the debates, especially the innuendoes of Lord Suffolk, shew more distinctly what is intended in the speech. I am informed that the general opinion in America is or was not long since, viz. the beginning of November, that the English would withdraw their fleets and armies. I am sorry that such an opinion should prevail, for nothing is more groundless. Deaf to their own interest, deaf to the cries of humanity, deaf to the distress, miseries, and dangers of every sort that threaten them at home, the English will pursue the war, as long as they can get money or credit.

We have nothing to expect but from our arms, the justice of our cause, and the favour of heaven. I wish my countrymen to be upon their guard and prepared. So many attempts have been made to deceive them in various shapes, and they have finally, had sagacity and firmness to disappoint them, that I have no doubt they will finally discover the new deceptions. But our great misfortune from the beginning has been our, credulity, in being lulled too long in indolence, unprepared by the false hopes that are held out to us, or rather that we frame for ourselves. The bayonet must finally save us.

Notwithstanding the little value some among us have affected to place upon paper money, and the scoff of our enemies upon this head, it may be relied on, that Gentlemen abroad, and some in Jamaica, who have had effects here to a large amount, have ordered the proceeds to be vested in Continental notes. The same has taken place to the southward; and there is the best ground to expect that investments of this kind from abroad will rapidly increase.

If those who conduct the affairs of the United States act with wisdom and firmness at this critical period, which we have no reason to doubt, we may soon be repaid for all our expense and sufferings in establishing our independence: As our trade will be courted by all the world, and not only wealth, but the most useful inhabitants, may soon flow to us from all quarters.