The Virginia Gazette

BOSTON, APRIL 15.

THE Dutch understand their own interest. They are good allies to Britain, but love themselves better than their old allies. They see England unable to maintain its power over America, and are willing to come in for a slice of the plumb pudding, the American trade. They stand ready, it is said, to make a treaty of commerce with us upon the fairest terms. This strengthens us, and weakens our adversary. We stand upon good ground in a treaty of accommodation, if we know how to improve it. Union, discretion, and firmness may soon make us one of the most respectable and happy nations upon earth.

Two days ago a vessel arrived at Newbury-Port, in 37 days, from Bilboa, in Spain. She brought a great number of letters. From those that have been opened, we can only learn, that Admiral Keppel was likely to be acquitted with honour, by the Court-Martial appointed to enquire into his conduct in the naval engagement of last summer: That there had been a great storm upon the coast of England, and much damage done to the men of war, and merchantmen, in the Downs, and other places? That great naval preparations were still going on in the ports of Spain, as well as France. We can find no mention of peace, nor do the letters speak of any number of men of war, or land forces, bound to the American continent.

To the advices brought by this vessel from Bilboa, we may add; that the Parliament of Britain had voted 20,000 men this year for America; that Governor Johnstone was strenuous for persevering in the design of conquering America, but that his brother commissioner, Eden, opposed him, and said it was impossible.

A letter from a Gentleman of character at the Southward, mentions, that the American commissioners at Paris have been empowered by Congress finally to adjust terms of accommodation on the part of these states, through the mediation of Spain.

A letter from a Gentleman of observation in the West Indies, acquaints, that France and Britain are continually augmenting their forces in this quarter, which is now like to prove the chief theatre of war on this side the Atlantick; so that should no accommodation take place, North America may soon have a comparative peace.

It is highly probable that France and Spain would choose to establish the independence of America, without a general war, if it could be avoided; and it is evident enough Great Britain dreads the consequence of such a war. She has therefore not only acquiesced in, but courted the mediatory negociation of Spain, through the winter. In her dispute with Spain about the affairs of Falklands-Island, she condescended to accept the interposition of France; in her present dispute with America and France, she is brought so low as to invite the mediation of the Spanish branch of the House of Bourbon.

It is said that some distinguished members of the minority in England have lately not only had permission, but the desire of Lord North to pass over to France in a private manner, to sound the American commissioners respecting the ultimate demands of the states they represent.