The Virginia Gazette

Paris, Sept. 17. We have had publick Rejoicings here three Days successively for the Birth of a Duke of Burgundy, such as Fireworks, Illuminations, scattering of Money among the Populace, &c. all which passed without any bad Accident: But it was not so at Versailles, where a Firework having been played off last Monday on the Parade, between the Palace and the King's Stables, some Rockets fell into the Stables, and set them on Fire. The King and the Dauphin repaired to the Spot now and then, to animate the Guards and others employ'd in extinguishing the Fire; notwithstanding which it was not entirely mastered till Yesterday. Several Men lost their Lives, and divers Horses perished in the Flames. The Damage is very considerable, the Conflagration having lasted three Days.

Great Rejoicings were to have been made in other Parts of the Kingdom on this Occasion; but his Majesty has ordered them to be laid aside, and the Sums that would have been expended in Fireworks, &c. to be appropriated to the marrying of honest, sober Girls, who for want of Money cannot get Husbands.