The Virginia Gazette

CHARLESTOWN, October 4.

Saturday last, being the first of October, a number of the principal mechanics of this town assembled under some trees, in a field adjacent to the rope walks, in order to fix upon six Gentlemen to represent the inhabitants of this town in the ensuing General Assembly; which being concluded upon, they then partook of a decent entertainment, which had been provided upon the occasion. At five in the afternoon they removed to a large live oak tree in Mr. Mazyck's pasture, adjoining to Christopher Gadsden's, Esq; at the north end of the town, which they consecrated by the name of the TREE OF LIBERTY; when the celebrated Liberty Song, so much admired in America, with several others, were sung. At dark the tree was ornamented with 45 lights, sundry skyrockets and other fireworks were played off, and loyal and suitable toasts were given by a Gentleman who was chosen president, and drank by the company. At 8 in the evening the company returned to town, marching in regular order down King street, and Broad street, preceded by 45 of the number, each carrying a lighted candle; and when they came opposite to the house of his Honour the Lieutenant Governour they drew up before the door, and the president gave the toast of the Massachusetts Ninety Two, &c. which was followed by three huzzas, from whence they proceeded on to Dillon's tavern, before the door of which they also drew up, when the president gave another toast, May the ensuing members of Assembly be unanimous, and never recede from the resolutions of the MASSACHUSETTS NINETY TWO, and three huzzas were again given. Then the whole company repaired to the long room in the said house, where 45 candles were placed on the table, and 45 glasses were applied in resounding the voices of as many loyal and respectable toasts; and at 10 they broke up, having spent the day, and concluded the evening, in civil mirth and jollity, without the least irregularity. On the contrary, the utmost respect was shown to one another, attended with unanimity and concord, during the whole proceeding; such as must reflect honour on the intention of their meeting, as well as to convince the world of their steady and fixed determination to join, upon all proper occasions, in support of the glorious cause of LIBERTY and their COUNTRY.