Alexandria Gazette & Daily Advertiser

Raleigh, (N. C.) Aug. 4.
DESPERATE COMBAT WITH A BEAR.

A person who superintends Mr. Goston's plantation, near Newbern, was standing in the mill, and discovered a large Bear on the edge of the swamp, about fifty yards distant. He discharged his gun, loaded with buck shot, and believed he had wounded the animal so much that he might safely approach him, which he no sooner attempted, than the Bear advanced on him. The Negroes, who were at some distance, halloed to the Overseer, and told him to run; but, believing that he could defend himself with his gun clubbed, he held it in that position, and retreated with his face to his adversary, intending to watch the moment of his approach, to give him the coup de grace. Just as he was about to do this his foot slipped, and he fell on his back, and in an instant, the enraged animal sprung upon him, and tore him in a dreadful manner. Several persons who were in the mill ran to the aid of the Overseer, some with guns, others with clubs, but they were unable to disengage the deadly gripe of the Bear, until one with an axe broke his jaw. The Overseer was brought over to Newbern, and for two days his life was despaired of: we have not since heard what is his situation.