The Patowmac Guardian, And Berkeley Advertiser

Extract of a letter, dated Cape Francois, 20th January, 1792.

"Referring to a few lines I wrote you two weeks ago, by way of Baltimore, I have now to add, that prospects here in almost every respect, are daily growing more distressing: the troops expected from France have not arrived, and the people are almost ready to doubt their coming.

"I am truly sorry that I, as well as many others, have been too sanguine in my expectations, respecting matters being accommodated with the Blacks, because I am fearful it may have induced to advise you to adventure property to this port sooner than you would otherwise have done. The treaty with them is entirely laid aside, and they have again began their depredations with additional vigor.

Last week the Blacks revolted in the neighbourhood of Fort Dauphin, and immediately put to death all the troops, say from 40 to 50, that were stationed at a village about four leagues from that post, and have destroyed all the plantations in that quarter; except a few adjoining the town. Two nights ago we were exceedingly alarmed at this place by a severe attack on the out posts of this town, by the Blacks, who succeeded in getting possession of one of the small forts, when they turned the guns on the town; but fortunately it was again retaken by a party of regular troops. Last night this town was again alarmed by small parties of Blacks, but who were soon repulsed.

"I am of opinion, that unless a large force from France arrives very soon, the town as well as the shipping will be in danger. Indeed I am very uneasy as to our situation, and have determined, if we can get the vessel cleared out, to proceed to St. Thomas, or to some other more peaceable island, and not return before the arrival of the fleet. Flour is very dull, at 5 to 6 dollars per barrel. Capt. Lowery, in a Schooner, and the brig Keziah, both from Wilmington, Delaware; also a ship and a schooner from Baltimore, have within a few days arrived here with flour.

"Capt. Lowneibury, and several others have gone to leeward, where I understand matters still remain in much confusion. All kinds of produce is very scarce and high; there is no good sugars to be had, and very little molasses.

"The day the insurrection happened at Fort-Dauphin, I put 100 barrels of flour on board Brig Pratt, who was going to that place with a view of purchasing some molasses, without knowing any thing of the attack; when she arrived there, all was disorder and confusion, so that it was with much difficulty we got away, on account that the inhabitants were hourly in expectation of being attacked.

"It is reported here, and I believe from pretty good authority, that Capt. T. and the supercargo of a schooner belonging to your port are close prisoners, and that the schooner is confiscated, on account of trading with those opposed to the whites."