The New Hampshire Gazette

SEPTEMBER 5.

We are informed by Capt. Chauncey, of the Snow Abigail, arrived here on Friday evening, that on the 17th ult. being on his passage from Martinique to this port, in lat. 27, 58, long. 72, he discovered, about 2 o'clock, P. M. a large sail to the windward, bearing down upon him, which at 6 o'clock announced her near approach by a cannon shot.--Capt. Chauncey immediately ordered the courses of the snow to be hauled up and the main top-sail backed. His orders were not executed, however so expeditiously as the Capt. of the Ship thought they should be; for in the same minute a second shot was discharged, which entered the mainmast.

In the space of a few minutes, a lieutenant came on board; and after spending some considerable time in looking over the papers, ordered the Capt. and Mr. Andrews, a passenger who had shipped chief part of the cargo, to go on board the ship with him. Accordingly they went, & were ordered to wait upon deck, until the papers were duly examined.--The examination continued almost two hours --during which time the Captain and Mr. Andrews, were surrounded by the crew, and subjected to answer every impertinent question which they were pleased to demand. At length the Capt. of the ship, which proved to be the Europa, a 64, made his appearance: in an attitude expressive of the most sovereign contempt, and in a loud and domineering tone,
asked them a number of questions. Interspersed with many impudent reflections against the Americans. This scene being ended Capt. Chauncey respectfully asked the Capt. to give him such materials as would answer to fix the main-mast, which had been disabled by his shot: otherwise he feared he should not be able to carry sail. The Capt. answered, "my man, we dont keep these things to give away; therefore ask for nothing here; my boat will carry you back to your vessel when you like; here, take your papers."