The New Hampshire Gazette And Historical Chronicle

On the 16th instant, a very sad affair happened at Wrentham West-Parish, viz. Between the hours of 2 and 3 in the afternoon, while people were generally attending on public worship, the house of Mr. Benjamin Rockwood appeared to be on fire, and was so suddenly consumed that nothing could be saved out of it; the out buildings were with difficulty preserved. Several apparent circumstances gave suspicion that some evil-minded vagrant had set it on fire purposely; care was taken the night following to waylay the roads and bridges where it was probable the plunderers might pass in their escape; Those who watched in one place, had the success to take one Thomas Cook, a notorious Thief; but none of Mr. Rockwood's effects were found upon him. Those who lay in wait at another place, had the chance to hear a Man on horse-back, in passing a bridge: He appeared to be loaded with plunder, and had a formidable club in his hand; but too soon perceiving his danger, he turned suddenly about and escaped their hands. On monday morning the woods thereabouts were diligently searched, and a horse was found, not far distant, with Mr. Rockwood's saddle upon him, and a bundle of stolen effects carefully deposited under a log: The horse is well known to be the same which one Daniel McKenney was seen in the possession of on the Saturday evening before.