The Virginia Gazette

September 20. By a Letter from a Greek Merchant at Smyrna, to his Brother in this City, we learn that the famous Ali Bey, who lately revolted from the Grand Seignior, has at length conquered all Syria, and on the 27th of August made a publick Entry into Antioch, where he was received with the loudest Acclamations by the People of that Metropolis. He was immediately waited upon by the Patriarch, at the Head of his Clergy, and by above three Hundred Monks of different Orders, preceded by an Officer carrying a Standard with the Cross. They were graciously received, and the Patriarch addressed him in an elegant Speech, beseeching him to take the distressed Remains of the Church of Syria into his Protection. His Highness assured them that all Religions should find Favour, and that no Injury whatsoever should be done to his Christian Subjects, whilst they behaved with Fidelity and Circumspection. He seems to have taken a great Liking to the Patriarch, and spends several Hours in his Company, from whence large Immunities are expected for the Christians in Syria and Palestine.