The Virginia Gazette

The first hint of having an English Settlement near Cape Horn, for the convenience of our ships in case of a war with Spain, was thrown out by an eminent writer in the Gazetteer above twenty years ago. This proposal was at that time noticed by General Oglethorpe, who, when Lord Egmont was at the head of the Admiralty, mentioned the scheme to his Lordship, by whom it was approved, and immediately carried into execution. Falkland's island seemed, to his Lordship, to answer the purpose. Our claim to it is founded upon having been discovered by one Falkland, a native of our country. The claim of the Spaniards is founded upon their having all the neighbouring continent, and a positive assertion of their own that we have no right in those seas. So the matter stands on general ground. A kind of Settlement having been made, under the patronage of Lord Egmont, who was very fond of the plan, and the affair having been discovered by the Spaniards, the King of Spain, about two months ago, sent four vessels to dislodge our people, and drive them totally from off the island. On the contrary, we have sent two ships of war to support them, in case any hostilities should be committed against them. Memorials and representations have passed backwards and forwards between the Courts of London and Madrid upon this subject. About ten days ago Mr. William Potter carried our ultimatum to Spain. It is impossible any answer should return in less than twenty one days. If the Spanish Court should avow the design of driving our people from Falkland's island (as in all probability they will) the fleet, now fitting out, will be immediately sent to bombard Cadiz.

When a King is determined to go to war, it is very easy to find a pretence.