The Virginia Gazette

The other accounts we have relative to American affairs are, in general, that though there be no immediate prospect of redress, yet that the wished for period, it is thought, is nearer than many imagine; for it is observed the opinion which had but too generally prevailed, of raising taxes on America, seems given up by many, from a persuasion of its being erroneous, and by others as a measure that will not answer the intended purpose. That therefore, although there be no probability of Parliament reversing the declaratory act, it is not likely that any Minister will hereafter attempt to make use of it to the purposes of Charles Townshend; and that that burthen, it is believed, will soon be removed.

That the present opposition to the immediate repeal of the late revenue act arises from the offence taken at its being insisted on with threats from this side, which is considered by some of our zealous friends in Parliament as an improper measure, and inclines them less to countenance an immediate redress, though they have it warmly at heart to be done in what they call "a due time." That, however, it is thought, it will be effected; and that the continuation of a prudent and temperate conduct will be the most ready means of accelerating it. That nothing has added to the difficulty of this work more than the merchants of one province having sent their orders conditionally, at the same time that their near neighbours determined to have their goods at all events. That this, with advices from respectable characters on this continent, that a considerable part of it cannot long shift without supplies from England, had very much decreased the fears of many in that respect, and raised in others the opinion that if such a trial of strength is ever to be made it may be as well done now as at any other time, especially as it is imagined that our markets are so overstocked with goods that giving us time to consume them will ultimately be advantageous to England.