The Virginia Gazette

BOSTON, September 27.

NOTWITHSTANDING the glimmering Hopes afforded us on the Arrival of Captain Lyde, from London, of an Alteration of the Measures of the Ministry, by the most creditable Intelligence received since, by Captain Symmes, we may venture to assure our Readers, that, considering the Prejudices of all about the Throne, we are so far from having a radical Redress of Grievances as that even the Withdrawal of the grievous Instructions to the Governour is not likely to be advised. That a few Members of Parliament, and perhaps some in high Office, have in a Degree an Idea of our growing Importance, and upon that Account a Wish that some Means may be found of perfect Reconciliation, yet that none of them seem to be willing to be active in our Favour. That a Plan of Reconciliation had been talked of, to be formed by a noble Lord; but it could not be effected while the Colonies claimed an exclusive Right, common to all British Subjects, of taxing themselves for the Support of their Governours, Judges, &c. being contrary to the parliamentary Revenue Acts. And, In short, that any essential Change in the Minds and Measures of Administration is not to be expected.

The Philadelphia Papers mention, that Dr. Franklin is soon expected in that City from London. The Endeavours of that Gentleman, who is Agent for several Colonies, may not have availed to alter the Determination of the British Ministry, to persevere in their Plan of American Policy, which may be the Occasion of his Intentions to return to his own Country; but a late Petition and Remonstrance, which he had not received when the last Vessels left England, may occasion his tarrying longer than is at present expected.