The Virginia Gazette

Extract of a Letter from a Captain of the Volunteer Companies of Townsmen in Berwick upon Tweed, to his Friend in London, dated Oct. 16.

Dear Sir,

I have just receiv'd yours, and take this Opportunity of letting you know, that the Rebels began to strike their Tents Yesterday, and by our last Advices, are this Day at Haddington, Musselburgh, and Preston Pans. How far they come this Night, or what Route they take, is kept a Secret. I believe they'll come our Way; if they do, there will be hot Work, for I am convinced the Townsmen will fight. We are in good Spirits, but think, our Garrison is neglected by lending us so few Troops, and taking our Friends the Dutch from us; tho' we have Vanity enough to think, that the Preparations and Stand we have made so far, has stopt the Rebels, and consequently sav'd the Northern Counties. The Rebels are certainly ten thousand strong, and threaten us hard. The Laird of Carnwath was sent out of this Place Yesterday for London, under a Guard of eight Dragoons and an Officer. I am persuaded he can make some Discoveries. I command the main Guard this Night, and expect to be at my Alarm Post, as they have given out they would be here this Night; though I think it will be To morrow, or Friday, before they can be before our Walls. We want a Garrison of disciplin'd Men and Gunners. I am, Sir, yours sincerely.

P.S. You may expect to hear from me every Post 'til we are invested. You may depend on what I write you, and may make it as publick as you think proper.