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Researching the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site of Canada
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An Event Chronology Based on Louisbourg Accounts Not Available in the Archives of the Fortress of Louisbourg, By Eric Krause, Krause House Info-Research Solutions, 2004 - Present

1757

[c. 1757]

[1757]

... In 1757 being at Sea in a Fleet of 96 Sail bound against Louisbourg, I observed the Wakes of two of the Ships to be remarkably smooth, while all the others were ruffled by the Wind, which blew fresh. Being puzzled with this differing Appearance I at last pointed it out to our Captain, and asked him the meaning of it? "The Cooks, says he, have I suppose, been just emptying their greasy Water thro' the Scuppers, which has greased the Sides of those Ships a little;" and this Answer he gave me with an Air of some little Contempt, as to a Person ignorant of what every Body else knew. In my own Mind I at first slighted his Solution, tho' I was not able to think of another. But recollecting what I had formerly read in Pliny, I resolved to make some Experiment of the Effect of Oil on Water when I should have Opportunity ...

[Source: Benjamin Franklin to William Brownrigg, London, Nov. 7, 1773, The Writings of Benjamin Franklin: Volume III, London, 1757 - 1775]

 

... February 21. 

A few Days since arrived here Capt. John Sandford, late Master of a Brigantine belonging to this Town,
from whom we have the following Account, viz. That on his Voyage to Europe in October last, he was taken by a French Privateer from Louisbourg, of 8 Carriage and 10 Swivel Guns, and that he found on board the Privateer, Mr. Solomon Lane, and Company, of Cape Ann, who had just before been taken on Bank Quero. Soon after, a Vessel from Virginia, bound to Hull, John McCloud, Master, fell into their Hands, as did Captain William Davis, in a Brigantine from Europe bound hither: And last of all they took capt. David Jefferies, in a Snow from Scotland bound higher; when finding they had more Prisoners than they knew what to do with, they took out of Capt Jefferies all his Bale Goods, and what else they thought of Value, and gave the Vessel to 28 of their Prisoners, who soon after got safe into Bermuda; where they found Capt. Joseph
Rous, in a Privateer Schooner from Halifax, with a very valuable French Prize, viz. a Ship of 250 Tons, bound from St. Domingo to France. .....

Boston, February 28.

Capt. Orne, who sailed from Salem on the First of December last, for the Leeward Islands, was taken off Bermuda by a French Xebeck, from Martineco for Marseilles, and in their Passage for Europe met with a large Ship, which they took for an English Man of War, and accordingly stood for Madeira.

While Capt. Orne was at Madeira, there came in a Privateer from England, which sailed from thence the 28th of December last, the Captain of which reported, That on the First of January, towards Dusk, he saw a Fleet of Ships steering W. and by N. that he kept to Windward of them all Night, in order to make what they were in the Morning, and, to his Disappointment, found them to be French Men or War, full of Men, and notwithstanding he was chaced by one of them for several Hours, he got clear: That afterwards they stood their former Course W. and by N. by which he imagined they were bound for Louisbourg. Capt. Orne, who gives this Account, arrived at Salem last Friday Evening.

Capt. Fones, in a Privateer Brig, belonging to Rhode Island arrived there on Friday last, with a fine large French Prize Snow, said to be very valuable, the Contents of which we have not yet learnt ...

Philadelphia, March 3. 

... The Brig Esther, Capt. House, belonging here, but bound to New York from London with Dry Goods, was taken on the 12th of December, in Lat. 24, Lon. 56, by a Privateer Schooner of Cape Breton, of 8 Guns and 45 Men. The Frenchman, after taking out a great Part of the most valuable Goods, ransomed the Remainder, with the Vessel, to Capt. House, for 1700 Sterling, when he bore away for Antigua, where he arrived safe. Captain House Vessel made the Sixteenth that had been taken by that Privateer since she left cape breton, among which were several Europeans, and a Mate of a Liverpool Snow was then on board the Privateer. ...

Charles Town, in South Carolina, March 3.

... The French Privateer Schooner, that some Time ago took the Snow Loudoun, of and from Irvine for this Port, David Jassrie Master, and gave her to the said Jassrie and 18 other English Prisoner, (after plundering her of all the Cargo but Coals, and stripping her of a great Part of her Sails and Rigging, so that she with great Difficulty got into Bermuda) was fitted out from and belonged to Louisbourg, called La Victoire, commanded by Mons. Simonin, and mounted 8 Carriage and 10 Swivel Guns. Before she met with the Loudoun, she had taken 7 other English Vessels upon this Coast, and intended to cruize here again; wherefore Simonin gave Jassrie a Pass to go to Virginia, and charged him at his Peril not to come this Way. --- This Intelligence is given, that our Coasters may avoid Schooners of her Size ...

Philadelphia, March 31.

This Morning (being the same Day Ten Years that cape breton was taken) our Troops march in and hoisted the English Flag. The French Regulars, to the Number of 150, and 350 others, march out of the Fort, and we are now in Possession of one of the finest Forts in Nova Scotia. The French have lost in all 8 Officers and 51 Private Men.

[April 14, 1757]

... By Letters in Town, we learn that the above Privateer belonged to cape breton, that she had cruized for some Months on the Coast of America; was bound for Martineco; and in all Probability is the same that took so many Vessels on these Coasts last Fall.

Extract of a Letter from Halifax, dated May 7. 1757.

... "The Indians have carried off 4 Men (one of them named William Fillis) from the Head of the North West Arm, about three Quarters of a Mile from Town, where they were working at a Saw mill: It is thought they are carried to Louisbourg, as we think the Enemy want Intelligence very much at this Time. Parties have been out, but to no Purpose." ...

Boston, May 12.

We hear that a Vessel had been re-taken by a New York Privateer, and bound for that Port, is put into Cape Ann by contrary Winds.

Yesterday Afternoon a Flag of Truce arrived at Marblehead, in eight Days from Louisbourg, and brought 73 Persons who had been taken Prisoners: ---By Mr. Kirke, one of them, who came to Town this Morning, we are informed, That last Winter and this Spring two Privateers, viz. a Sloop and a Schooner, fitted out from thence have taken and carried in there the following Vessels, viz. The Two Sisters, Dobson, a Sloop belonging to this Place, bound to Halifax; a Schooner, Boobey, Master, belonging to Marblehead, bound from the Banks, with Fish; the Molly, Thomas Dunbar, a Snow from Philadelphia, for Dublin; the Lloyd, a Snow, George Sweeting, from Maryland for Liverpool; the Dispatch, Leech Harris, of this Place, from Madeira, with a valuable Cargo of Wine, bound hither; the Apollo, a Schooner, Thomas Legget, from this Place for Halifax; a Schooner, Arthur Randall, from the Isle of Shoals, for the Banks; a Sloop Gutteridge, from New London for Madeira; a Schooner, Bragdon, from Old York, for Halifax. --- He informs that there was no Privateer out from thence, that they heard of.

We learn also by him, that a Ship was seen ashore on the Isle of Sable, an English Vessel which had been in her Passage from Portugal to Virginia taken by a French Privateer, and sent to Louisbourg: That seeing a Schooner they hoisted English Colours; upon which the Schooner went to their Relief; but some Difference arising the Frenchmen took Possession of the Schooner, and with her took another, on board of which they put some of the English People, who we hear are arrived at Cape Ann; the other Schooner arrived at Louisbourg before the said Flag of Truce came out, with some of the Ship Sails, Rigging and Stores, which they saved, she being left a Wreck ...

New York, May 23.

Captain Barham, of Connecticut, is taken by the French.

Friday last Captain Dunbar, late of the Snow Polly, from Philadelphia, came here by Land from Boston, having arrived at Cape Anne, the 11th Instant from Louisbourg, with 73 others, that has the Misfortune to be taken and carried into Cape Breton, as has been already mentioned under the Boston Head.
Captain Dunbar informs us,

That he sailed from Cape Henlopen the 19th Day of December,and was taken the 25th following, by a Privateer Sloop, of 8 Carriage Guns, belonging to Louisbourg, to which Place he was sent; that 29 Sail of English Vessels had been sent in there since September last, most of which were already mentioned in the Papers; that the Garrison of Louisbourg consisted of about 2500 Men, who were so much in Want of Provisions, that Part of them offered to release a Number of English Seamen, over whom they were Centries, provided they would carry them to Halifax in a Privateer, then in the Harbour; which the Seamen agreed to, but the Soldiers, afraid of being detected, fell out among themselves, and put a Stop to the whole: and that not one Bessel of Force was in the Harbour of Louisbourg the 3d of this instant May.

The Price of Provisions, at Louisbourg, was, Bread. 6d. Sterling, per lb. Rum, 20 s. a Gallon; Mutton, 40 Livres a Quarter; Geese and Turkies the same; and Wine 6 Livres a Bottle ...

... Extract of a Letter from on board the Orford Man of War, dated
at Sea, May 26, 1757.

--- "The Fleet sailed from Cork the 8th of May, being about 90 Sail in all; 14 Line of Battle Ships, a Fire Ship, a Bomb, a 2 Gun Ship, 2 Sloops, 60 Transports, with about 6000 Troops, and some Merchantmen from different Parts: A 60 Gun Ship and a Bomb were still to join them. The Troops are commanded by Major General Hopson, Maj. General Lord Charles Hay, with Lord Howe, and several other Gentlemen of Distinction and seem to be all in good Spirits. Before the Fleet left Ireland, the Somerset Man of War brought into Kinsale two Ships with about 200 Soldiers bound to Louisbourg, and the Rochester was left in Pursuit of three more; and twas the current Report the Day the Fleet sailed, had brought them into Beerhaven near Cape Clear. The York Man of War has likewise taken three Ships and carried them into Plymouth, with about 500 Men more. The Change in the Ministry is now believed to be settled, as the Duke of N --- and Mr. Pit are
together." ...

New York, May 30.

Thursday and Friday last returned here from their Cruizes, the following Privateers, viz. the Brig Hawk, Capt. Alexander; the Sloop Charming Sally, Capt. Harris, and Brig Johnson, Capt. Grig, each of 12 Carriage Guns; and brought in with them five French Prizes, to wit, Three Ships, a Snow, and a Brig, which they took out of a Fleet of 27 Sail, between the 7th and 12th Inst. off the West Caucases, as they were bound from Cape Francois to Bourdeaux: -- They were under Convoy of five French Men of War of the Line, and a Frigate, when our Privateers descried them, and left the Cape but 2 Days before they were taken. The Ships are of 14 Carriage Guns each, are Letters of Marque, stood a hot Engagement of some Hours, and our Vessels were obliged to board them before they struck; --- they are at least 300 Tons, the Snow is about 250, and the Brig about 200 Tons, deep loaded with Sugar, Coffee, Cotton, &c. And, we hear, one of the Ships has between 80 and 100,000 wt. of Indico on board. The Whole, at the lowest Computation, is valued at about 70 Thousand Pounds Currency.

Capt. Grig had 3 Men killed in the Engagement, William Coils, Hugh McAtee, and Duncan McCullum, and himself and 14 others wounded; but the Captains Alexander and Harris happily had none either killed or wounded.

Capt. Alexander, in the Hawk, a Day or two before they fell in with the abovementioned Fleet, took a valuable Schooner, bound from the Cape to Europe, and ordered her for Bermuda, where she was to lay a Fortnight, and then to proceed hither, so that, in all Probability, her Arrival here may be look for every Day.

Some of the Prisoners taken in the above Prizes, say, That the five Line of Battle Ships and Frigate, when they left the Convoy, in a certain Lat. were to proceed directly for Louisbourg; and that the Greenwich Man of War, lately taken from the English, was a Anchor in the Cape; from which it is natural to think, that either the Want of Men or Provisions, render the French unable to sit her out. --- ...

New York

Extract of a Letter from Halifax, dated June 3, 1757.

"The Fleet from England, with the Transports from Ireland, are not yet arrived. The Speedwell, Captain Bond, went to Sea the 30th of May; the Success, of 20 Guns, sailed Yesterday, both to cruize and look out for the Fleet. A Brig arrived here Yesterday, the Master of which made Oath, that he saw 9 Sail of large French Men of War on Sunday last, sailing North Eastward, towards Cape Breton. Captain Rous has ordered the Winchelsea, Captain Hale, of 20 Guns, and Jamaica, Captain Thompson, of 14 Guns, to go to Sea Immediately. We sail Tomorrow, I imagine to peep into Louisbourg, and also to look out for Admiral Holbourn ...

We hear that one Capt. Sears arrived at Norwalk, in Connecticut, last Friday, in 13 Days from Halifax, and says, that the seven French Men of War that were seen cruizing off that Place, had put into Louisbourg ...

Boston, June 6.

... A fishing Schooner which arrived last Week at Newbury, brought in Capt. Lawrence and his Crew, belonging to the Ship that Capt. Comrin and others saw ashore on the Isle of Sables (as formerly mentioned) she was bound from Gibraltar for Virginia, but taken by the French, who, after they were ashore, upon having some Difference, fired upon Capt. Lawrence Men, and wounded two of them, and after taking out some of her Effects, proceeded in a Schooner to Louisbourg, leaving all the English on the Island. ...

Boston, June 13.

... We hear a Fishing Schooner is arrived at Marblehead which belonged there, and had been taken on the Grant Bank by a Letter of Marque Snow from France, bound to Louisbourg, mounting 4 Guns, with 25 Men. The Master of the Schooner ransomed her for 150 £. Sterling, and went himself with the Snow to Louisbourg as Hostage, till the Ransom be paid. It is said a Number of Blanks were on board the Snow, ready for filling up, to ransom Vessels, the Frenchman expecting to make a good Fare of Ransomers among our Fishing Vessels.

By Letters form Halifax, dated the second Instant, we have Advice, that a Vessel was just arrived there from Philadelphia, the Master of which affirmed, that on his Passage he fell in with 6 French Men of War, about 15 or 16 Leagues to the Eastward of Halifax; upon which Advice, his Majesty Ship Winchelsea, of 20 Guns, a prime Sailer, was went out to look into Louisbourg Harbour, and several small armed Vessels were out of Halifax, Capt. Martin Arrived there in 7 weeks from London, and reported, that the Fleet for America was not sailed when he came out ...

Halifax, June 18.

Saturday last arrived here the Huzza Privateer, belonging to this Place, Capt. Phipps, and had brought in a Prize Schooner, formerly called the Apollo, Capt. Legget, lately taken from the English on her passage from Boston to this Place, and carried into Louisbourg, which he met with off Scattaree, on the third Instant, on her Passage from Louisbourg to Quebec. The People belonging to her made their Escape to the Shore in their Boat, and took to the Woods, and it is thought they carried with them Cash and other Things to a considerable Value. Her Cargo is of no great Value.

June 23. 

... From Providence we have Advice of the 11th Instant, that a Vessel was then just arrived there from Porto Prince, with an Account, that so many, French Men of War had lately arrived at Cape Francois, as had encreased the Number we formerly mentioned in this Paper to 17 Sail of the Line, and 13 Frigates, besides Bomb Vessels, Fireships, &c. And that they also had a large Body of Land Forces there, who were held in Readiness to re-embark on two different Expeditions; which has occasioned various Conjectures. Some imagine that a Part of the above Armanment is destined this Way, which the other attempts the Conquest of Jamaica: Others are of Opinion, that the whole will arrive at Louisbourg, or in the Gulph of St. Lawrence, before Admiral Hosbourne can reach Halifax; and others again, that most of the Frigates, with some of the Bomb Vessels, and one or two large Ships, will separate from the rest in this Latitude and the others proceed with the St. Domingo fleet for France ...

Boston, June 27.

Friday last arrived here Capt. Trefrey in 12 Days from Halifax, and informs, that the Men of War sent to look into the Harbour of Louisbourg were return and reported that they saw 7 Sail; that they were putting themselves in the best Posture of Defence possible at Halifax, expecting a Visit from the French.

We have the Pleasure to inform the Publick, that the black Sloop that chased and spoke with some coasting Vessels in the Bay, last Tuesday, (which was taken for a French Privateer) proves to be the Black Snake Privateer, of Providence, in Rhode Island Government. She was bound home from the West Indies, but put out of her Course by the late strong southerly Winds.

Boston

... Extract of a Letter from Halifax, June 29, 1757.

---"Yesterday arrived the Hunter Sloop, Capt. Laforey, with Dispatches from Mr. Holbourn to our Governor; he left him 400 Leagues off, with 14 Ships of the Line, and 67 Transports, all in perfect Health; we expect him in every Hour. This you may suppose gives us great Spirits, after hearing that the French Fleet had got into Louisbourg."

Boston, July 4.

By a Vessel in seven Days from Halifax we have Advice, that his Majesty Ship Winchelsea, that had been sent out to look into the Harbour of Louisbourg, was come back, not having been able to discover any men of War there; and that on her Return she fell in with three large French men of War in the Offing, one of which chaced her some Hours, but on a Signal from one of the other two Ships she gave over the Chace.

Since the above Article was composed, Capt. Nickels arrived here from Halifax, and by him there is Advice, that eight large, and two small, Ships were in the Harbour of Louisbourg.

Philadelphia, July 7.

... From Halifax there is Advice, that six or seven Sail of French Ships of the Line, and some Frigates, were in Louisbourg Harbour.

Captain Morton, from this Place, is safe arrived at Halifax ...

... Extract of a Letter from Fort Edward, July 12, 1757.

"Yesterday nine Mohawks came in here, who had been out with a Scalping Party at the Back of Crown Point, and brought in with them a French Prisoner, whom they took from a Flank Guard that was escorting some Carriages from Montreal to Crown Point. This Prisoner says, that Monsieur Montcalm was to march from Montreal for Ticonderoga the First of this Month, with 6000 Men, and had resolved to pay the English a Visit at Fort William Henry: That 14 Men of War had lately arrived from Old France, seven of which, he said, were lying at Quebec, and seven in Louisbourg Harbour: And that They daily expected another large Fleet, with a Number of Transports ...

Philadelphia

Extract of a Letter from Halifax, dated July 24, 1757.

"Enclosed you have a List of the Army and Navy, to which In refer you. Both are exceeding healthy, and in high Spirits. A Seventy Gun Ship, and a few Transports sprung their Masts on the Passage from Europe; but they are now fitted out, and the whole Fleet cleaned and watered. Tomorrow, I am told, the Troops begin to embark.

"Capt. Rouse, with a Twenty Gun Ship, was sent to look into Louisbourg Harbour. He took a small Vessel off the Mouth of the Harbour, with nine Prisoners. They have been examined separately, and all agree that there are only five Capital Ships and two Frigates in the Harbour; that the Garrison is strong, and in daily Expectation of the British Fleet and Army. The Prisoners also inform, that five Capital Ships have gone up the River St. Lawrence, and in short, that they are in the utmost Consternation, not knowing which Place we intend to attack first; if it should be Louisbourg, it cannot hold out long against such a Fleet and Army, though it is generally thought we shall meet with a warm Reception.

"My Lord Loudoun has reviewed five of the seven Regiments that came last from England, and this Day the other two are to be reviewed. I must say that they are a glorious Body of Men. In ten Days Time I hope to be able to send your Notice of some grand Action performed by them, as you will see by the List that we are upwards of 14,000 brace Land Forces.

"Admiral Holbourne is in much Esteem. He keeps his Officers strictly to their Duty, treats his Men with Humanity, and especially the Sick, of whom he is uncommonly careful, tho' they are but a few. The Officers of the Army and Navy are in great Harmony. His Lordship dines often aboard the Admiral, and when that does not happen, the Admiral dines with him. My next I hope will bring you something decisive, and of lasting
Importance to the Fate of British America." ...

Boston, July 25. 

By Vessels from Halifax, we are informed, that all the Fleet from Cork, except 3 Transports, were arrived there, and were preparing with the utmost Diligence, to sail on a secret Expedition. That 12 Sail of Line of Battle Ships were in the Harbour of Louisbourg. That 32 British Men of War were in Halifax Harbour, 17 of which were of the Line. And, That the Nightingale, of 20 Guns, with his Excellency THOMAS POWNALL, Esq; on board, was to sail for this Port the Day after the last Vessel left Halifax, and is daily expected.

July 30, 1757

Governor Dinwiddie to Governor Sharpe

Ships at Lewisburg and many Transp'ts with Men gone up St. Lawrence, but as there are so many fly'g stories I incline to susp'd my Opin'n thereon till more certainly inform'd ...

[Robert Dinwiddie, The official records of Robert Dinwiddie: Lieutenant-Governor of the Colony of Virginia, 1751-1758, Volume 4 (Published by The Society, 1884), p. 677]

 

Boston, August 4.

... Monday last Capt. McKown arriv here in ten Days from Halifax, and by Letters which came in him we have Advice, That Capt. Rouse, with the two 20 Gun Ships which he went out on a Cruize with, and to look into Louisbourg Harbour, had return, and brought in with them a Schooner, with five Frenchmen who say, there are but five Sail of the Line at Cape Breton; the other Men of War had gone up the River St. Lawrence. --- Our Troops were ordered to embark last week. --- We also learn, that Major Rogers had brought into Halifax, two Soldiers who had deserted, one of which he took near Cape Breton; both of them were hang on the 20th of July among the Camps ...

... Extract of a Letter from Halifax, dated August 5.

"-- I have to acquaint you, That yesterday arrived here a Schooner, being dispatched by the Captain of the Gosport Man of War at Newfoundland, to Admiral Holbourne, which informs, that the Gosport had taken a Schooner bound home to Old France from Louisbourg, and by Letters found on board her, it was learnt, that there were seventeen Line of Battle Ships and 5 or 6 Frigates, with seven or eight Thousand Land Forces, in Louisbourg. 

"Our Men of War are all gone out, in order, if possible, to bring the French Fleet to an Engagement.

Some People say the French have four Ships of 80 Guns and none less than 64 at Cape Breton.

This Day the Windsor of 60 Guns, and Granado Bomb, joined the Fleet, having sent in a Ship and Snow, two Prizes."

New York, August 8.

... We hear that Captain Ash, who was sent out from Halifax in a Brig, as mentioned under the Philadelphia Head, looked into the Harbour of Louisbourg, and could discover no more than 8 Ships of the Live in that Harbour ...

... New London, August 17

This Day arrived here a French Prize Schooner, taken by Capt. Mumford of this Port, who was himself lately taken. Her Largo consists of Rum, White Sugar, Coffee and Rolled Tobacco. She came from Martineco, and was bound to Louisbourg.

August 18, 1757

Governor Dinwiddie to Governor Sharpe

Colo. Hunter further writes that the whole Forces were arrived at Hallifax with 20 Sail Line of Battle Ships, that L'd Loudo'n was to sail the 25th Ult'o. to attack Lewisburg, as it is too late for Canada; that he will be able to land 18,000 Men. The French expects 'em, having a Sail of the Line Drawn up to defend the Harbour. We had the good Fortune of loosing only six Men of the large No. of Transports from Ireland, and they are in high spirits. Our Laws are not yet printed, or [I] sh'd send Yo. those I formerly mention'd. I am, respectfully ...

[Robert Dinwiddie, The official records of Robert Dinwiddie: Lieutenant-Governor of the Colony of Virginia, 1751-1758, Volume 4 (Published by The Society, 1884), p. 687]

Boston, August 22.

... Yesterday arrived here in 6 Days from Halifax, Capt. Trefrey, who informs, That the Fleet under the Command of Admiral Holbourne was soon to sail and cruize before Louisbourg ...

August 26, 1757

Governor Dinwiddie to Benjamin Stead

As it is too late in [the] Year to execute the grand Plan of Operat'ns ag'st Quebeck, it's thought his L'd'p will endeavour to take Cape Breton, alias Lewisburg. He can land (it's reported.) 1,800 Men, and has not less than 16 Line of Battle Ships, besides Frigates, &c. Pray God grant him Success and enable him to releave N. York, w'ch must be in very g't Confusion and Distress ...

[Robert Dinwiddie, The official records of Robert Dinwiddie: Lieutenant-Governor of the Colony of Virginia, 1751-1758, Volume 4 (Published by The Society, 1884), p. 690]

August 26, 1757

Governor Dinwiddie to Benjamin Dobbs

From Nova Scotia, L'd Loud'n was safe there with the Forces from N. York, and was join'd by Adm'l Hol- bourn with the Line of Battle Ships and all the Transports from Brittain, having lost only 6 Men by Death on their Passage. As it proves much too late in the Year for put'g in Execut'n the grand Design ag'st Canada, it's suppos'd his L'd'p will endeavour to take Lewisburg, where they say the Fre. have 10 Line of Battle Ships, besides Frigates. It's thought My L'd will be able to Land 16,000 or 18,000 Men. If so, I wish him Success, and that he may soon be able to send a Reinforcement to N. York.  ...

[Robert Dinwiddie, The official records of Robert Dinwiddie: Lieutenant-Governor of the Colony of Virginia, 1751-1758, Volume 4 (Published by The Society, 1884), p. 691]

... Extract of a Letter from Halifax, August 29

--- "The 19th Instant the English Fleet looked into the Harbour of Louisbourg, and discovered the French Fleet lying there. On the 20th, being a little foggy, the Windsor went to look in, and not seeing any of the French Ships, the whole Fleet put away immediately for Halifax, and arrived the same Day Week they sailed from hence. The Men of War have received Orders to be in Readiness to sail at an Hour Warning. Rear Admiral Sir Charles Hardy, has hoisted his Flag on board the Invincible, which is by far the best Ship in the Squadron." ...

Philadelphia, September 1.

... From Halifax we have the following List of French Ships at Louisbourg, viz.

Arrived from Martineco the 20th or 21st of July, Le Tonnant, of 80 guns, M. Beaufremont, Rear Admiral; Le
Froncoeur, of 74 Guns, Chef d'Escadre; L'Inflexible, 64; L'Eviellie, 64; Le Diadem, 64; and Le Brun, of 32 Guns.

From Brest, arrived two or three Days after the Ships from Martineco, Le Formidable, of 80 Guns, M. Bois de la Motte, Vice Admiral; Le Du de Bourguignon, of 80 Guns, Chef d'Escadre; Le Superbe, 74; le Dauphin Royal, 74; Le Celebre 64; L'Heros, 64; and Le Bizare, of 54 Guns.

From Toulon, about four Days after the Ships from Brest, Le Sage, of 64 Guns; L'Achille, 64; and two Ships of 74 Guns each, Names unknown,

What Squadron the following four Frigates came out with, is now known, La Bienacquise, of 34 Guns; La Corneille, 32; La Fleur De Lis, 30; and La Hermione, of 34 Guns.

We have also Advice from Halifax, that the French have a great Number of regular Troops at Louisbourg; and have erected a new Battery there of Fifty 42 Pounders. ......

[September 3, 1757]

To Sir Horace Mann. 
Strawberry Hill, Sept. 3, 1757. 

I told you in my last Admiral Boscawen's affair too strongly: he is not disgraced nor dismissed, but seems to reckon himself both. The story is far from exactly known: what I can sift out is, that he indulged himself in a great latitude in a most profitable station, was recalled against his inclination, for the present expedition; not being easily met, a second commander was appointed, whom it seems he did not much care to serve under at first. He does not serve at all, and his Boscawenhood is much more Boscawened; that is surely in the deepest shade. The wind has blown so constantly west for nearly three weeks, that we have not only received no mails from the continent, but the transports have been detained in the Downs, and the secret expedition has remained at anchor. I have prayed it might continue, but the wind has got to the east to-day. Having never been prejudiced in favour of this exploit, what must I think of it when the French have had such long notice? 

We had a torrent of bad news yesterday from America, Lord Loudon has found an army of twenty-one thousand French, gives over the design on Louisbourg, and retires to Halifax. Admiral Holbourn writes, that they have nineteen ships to his seventeen, and he cannot attack them. It is time for England to slip her own cables, and float away into some unknown ocean! Between disgraces and an inflammation in my eyes, it is time to conclude my letter. My eyes I have certainly weakened with using them too much at night. I went the other day to Scarlet's to buy green spectacles; he was mighty assiduous to give me a pair that would not tumble my hair. "Lord! Sir," said I, "when one is come to wear spectacles, what signifies how one looks?" I hope soon to add another volume to your packet from my press. I shall now only print for presents; or to talk in a higher style, I shall only give my Louvre editions to privy-councillors and foreign ministers. Apropos! there is a book of this sacred sort which I wish I could by your means procure: it is the account, with plates, of what has been found at Herculaneum. You may promise the King of Naples in return all my editions. Adieu! my dear Sir.

[Source: Horace Walpole, The Letters of Horace Walpole, Earl of Orford: Including Numerous Leters now first published from the Original Manuscripts in Four Volumes,  Volume 2, 1749-1759, London: Richard Bentley, 1846, September 3, 1757]

New York, September 5.

... Thursday Morning last several Vessels arrived here from Halifax, under Convoy of his Majesty Ships the Sutherland, Captain Falkingham, of 50 Guns; Winchelsea, Captain Hale, and Kennington, Captain Diggs, of 20 Guns each; with the Jamaica Sloop, Captain Thompson; and Hawke Bomb, Captain Bradley: --- They all sailed from Halifax the 16th of August, in Company with Rear Admiral Holbourne, in his MajestyShip the Newark, of 80 Guns; Rear Admiral Hardy, in the Invincible of 74 Guns, and 16 other Ships of the Line, who went to Cruize off Louisbourg--- ...

Boston, September 5.

... We have Advice from Nantucket, That Capt. Nathaniel Woodbury of that Place, being bound on a Whaling Voyage, was taken about the Middle of last Month, 25 Leagues to the Eastward of the Grand Bank, by a French Privateer sloop, called the Revenge; of 10 Carriage Guns, and 70 Men. --- That when he came on board, he found one Capt. Rowlinson, who was bound in a Snow from Philadelphia to Liverpool, laden with Bread, Flour and Wheat, taken also by said Privateer, the Beginning of last Month, and sent to Louisbourg. --- Capt. Woodbury having no Oil on board, they gave him his Sloop again; and told him there was another French Privateer, a Schooner, cruizing about 20 Leagues to the Southward of him, which they would have him steer clear of; --- upon which, he made the best of his Way to Nantucket, and arrived there last Thursday 7 night ...

[September 8, 1757]

RUN away, on the 2d of September Instant, from the Subscriber, living in Salem, in Salem County, West New Jersey, an Irish Servant Man, named Edward Rubie, says he was bred in the City of Cork, and that he served his Time in Philadelphia to a Ship carpenter; pretends to know something of sawing with a Whip saw; has been a Privateering, and in the Army, and says he was discharged at cape breton ...; has a Brother living in the
Highlands of York, where he taught School some Time, from whence he ran away, and came to Piles Grove, in Salem County, where he also taught School for some Time, then ran away from his Bail, took a Horse with him, forged an Order on Capt. Cox in Philadelphia, got some Money, was advertised in the Pennsylvania Gazette, and put in York Goal, over Sasquehanna, from whence he was brought and put into Salem Goal, and there begin and indebted Servant for three Years from February 1757: Had on when he went away a light colour Bearskin Jacket, two check Shirts, and Trowsers of the same, new Shoes, with large Brass Buckles, and a half worn Beaver Hat. He is a middle aged Man, about five Feet five Inches high, has short curled Hair,
much Pock marked, and can play on the Flute; it is supposed he is gone towards New York. Whoever takes up and secures said Servant in any Goal, so as his Master may have him again, shall have Two Pistoles Reward, and reasonable Charges, paid by GABRIEL COPPNER.

Halifax, September 11.

On Saturday last arrived here a French prize Schooner sent in by the Fleet, taken off Louisbourg, her Cargo consisted of ship Timber, some Bread and Fish, &c. She has lost her Bowsprit, and her Head is much damaged by the Norwich running foul of her in the Night, and is sent in here not only to be repaired, but also to be fitted out as a Privateer, and we hear is to carry 10 Carriage and 20 Swivel Guns, and is to be mannout of the Fleet, by which she will be employed as a Tender. She is a fine Schooner, of about 120 Tons, New England built, and a prime Sailer. 

Thursday arrived a French Prize Sloop, taken by the Fogeux; her Cargoe consists of Furs, Fish, &c.

Yesterday Morning arrived here his Majesty Sloop Jamaica from the Fleet off Louisbourg, which she left cruizing on their Station, all well: We hear she left the Fleet in Company with a Prize Snow, a Vessel of Force, taken by the Fogeux: She also in her Passage hither took a French Brigantine, which, with the Snow, she parted with two Days ago in a Fog; both which are hourly expected in here. The Jamaica also, off this Harbour, relieved a Schooner from Boston, Capt. Storer, bound to this Port, who was then in Chase by a French Privateer, who upon espying the Jamaica, stood off and gave over the Chase. She is a large Schooner, her upper Works and Masts painted with Spanish Brown, carried eight Guns, besides Swivels, and is a good Sailer.

The same Day, about 10 o'Clock, the Jamaica set Sail again, in quest of the said French Privateer.

 

New York, September 12.

... The Gosport Man of War has taken a Schooner Privateer, of Cape Breton, and carried her into St. John in Newfoundland. She had taken several English Prizes a few Day[sic] before, some belonging to Philadelphia ...

Letters from Halifax, mention the Return of Admiral Holbourn, with his Fleet, from off Louisbourg, where the French Fleet are still at Anchor in the Harbour, and whoseNumber of great Guns on board their Line of Battle Ships, exceed those of the English by 158.

We also learn, that the French Encampments are quite thick all along the Sea side, on Cape Breton Isle, particularly in such Places where there was any Likelihood of landing a Body of Men, having also several strong Batteries newly erected ...

Boston

Extract of a Letter from Halifax, September 19.

"The French Fleet will not come out from Louisbourg to engage our Fleet. They have a large Chain or Boom across the Harbour, to prevent our Ships going in: They have been very near, and the Hunter Sloop was so nigh that the French fired at her from the Island Battery. The Hunter is dispatched to England. Two Men have been killed near the Eastern Battery on the other Side of the Harbour. The Nightingale Man of War and the Mastship arrived from Piscataqua the 3d Instant."

[September 22, 1757]

... We hear form Salem, that a fishing schooner, belonging to Marblehead, was taken about 3 weeks ago, on the banks, by a French privateer from Louisbourg, who took all the men out of her but two, and put 14 of their own hands on board, with 6 carriage guns; and in order to decoy the other fishermen, they left the management of the schooner to the two Englishmen; soon after which, they fell in with a New York Privateer, who retook her, and sent her into Marblehead, where she arrived last Saturday. We also hear, that the above French privateer had taken three other vessels, besides and schooner, which she sent into Louisbourg.

New York, September 26.

... Saturday Morning last, Capt. Thomas Barns arrived here in nine Days from Halifax, and by several Letters that came in him to Gentlemen in this City, we learn, That Admiral Holbourn, being joined by his Majesty Ships the Eagle and Somerset, both of the Line, sailed from Halifax on Sunday the 11th Instant, with 18 Line of Battle Ships; that a few Miles from the harbour he was joined by the Devonshire and Prince Frederick, of 70 Guns each, directly from England, and that three more of the Line also were hourly expected; that Governor Lawrence was safe arrived at Chignecto, with two Regiments, where all Things were quiet, and that they were not in the least apprehensive of a Visit there from the French, as was currently reported; that a small Schooner was returned to Halifax, after looking into the harbour of Louisbourg, where the Master counted 14 large Ships, with three Flags, and several small ones; many Tents on Shore, and some new Works ...

[ September 29, 1757]

... The same Day the Captains Rankin and Blackburn arrived here from Halifax, and confirm the Account of our Fleet being sailed again to cruize of Louisbourgh: That a small Ship from France, bound to cape breton, laden with Flour, Wine, &c. was taken, and sent in by a Schooner in the King Service. And that a Sloop had also been sent in by another Vessel in the Service, which she met with off of cape breton, but not a Soul on board, nor no Papers to be found. ...

New York, October 3.

... Saturday last arrived here, a Prize Brig, called the Mentor, or Bordeaux, Mons. Jack Millyou, Master, taken on the 23d of August last, by the Privateers George, Goldfinch, and Fox, of this Port, in Company with the Privateer Stanwix, of Philadelphia, the Thurloe of St. Christophers, and Sloop Thomas of Antigua. She was bound from cape breton to Cape Francois, was a Letter of Marque, mounting 10 Guns; had taken on her Passage, the Ship Happy Return, of and for Londonderry from Philadelphia, and ransomed her for £ 1000 sterling. --- The Brig made no Resistance, is loaded with Fish and Cordage, but notwithstanding tho to be a Packet Boat. ...

[ October 6, 1757]

... Capt. Arthur (who sailed with a Fleet, under Convoy of some Ships of War) in his Passage spoke with two Men of War, that had been cruizing for some Time off of Port Antonio (one of them the Assistance) and had taken a French privateer Sloop, and a Brig, for cape breton from Hispaniola; and retaken a Ship belonging to Boston, bound to London; That the former Captain of her was going Home Passenger with Capt. Goodwin, of New York, but seeing his Vessel, knew her, and applied to the Captains of the King Ships for her, who immediately gave him possession of his Ship, and ordered him to proceed on his Voyage. ...

[October 10] 

... By a Letter from Lieutenant Dugdale, of Warburton Regiment, who was cast away in his Majesty Ship the Tilbury, dated at Louisbourg, October 10, we learn, That he and about 270 more saved themselves on a Raft, they made on the Wreck, having remained there four Days; that as soon as they reached the Shore, they were surrounded by three or four Hundred Indians, who would inevitably have murdered them, had not the Governor of Louisbourg (having Intelligence of their Misfortune) detached 200 Soldiers to their Relief; that Captain Croyton, of Warburton Regiment, with the brave Captain Barnsley, the Captain of Marines, and a great many more, perished in the Waves ...

The following Paragraph has just been imported from Flanders, viz. - From the Brussels Gazette. - "London, Oct. 26. There is another Grand Expedition concerting by the Ministry, which is to be put in Execution early in the Spring. 'Tis also said that the Court has resolved to send, during the Winter, Twenty Thousand Regular Troops to America." We hear that a new Exercise is introduced in the second Troop of Horse Grenadier Guards, which, for Swiftness and Dexterity, far exceeds any Exercise yet found out, as one Hand only, which before required two; and by this Means their Firelocks are become as handy to them as playing with a light Stick. The Hercules Privateer, Capt. Bishop, of Bristol, has retaken the Snow Gambia of Liverpool, which is since run on Shore near Bridgewater, and most of the Crew perished. The Duke of Cumberland, Ball, a Letter of Marque, of and from Bristol, last from the Canaries to Virginia, was lost in September, nine Leagues to the Southward of Cape Henry, the Captain, Surgeon, and 23 Men perish'd, and 21 were saved. A Russian Vessel laden with 12,000 Bushels of Meal, and a great Quantity of Oats, for the Russian Troops, is lost near Rugenwalde. The following is an Account of the Ships that sustained Losses in the late Hurricane in North America : The Windsor lost 16 Guns; the Newark six Guns; the Kingston 16 Guns; the Nottingham 12 Guns and her Mizen-Mast; the Invincible three Men, and her Main and Mizen Masts; the Captain and Sunderland, their Main and Mizen Masts; the Nightingale, four Men, 20 Guns, and her Mizen Mast; the Cruizer, three Men, 10 Guns, and her Mizen Mast. It is positively said that the French lost some Transports, with Troops on board, bound to Louisbourg, in the same Storm that separated Admiral Holbourne's Fleet.

[Source: Some Selected Reports from Berrow's Worcester Journal Thursday, November 17th, 1757 - http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~dutillieul/ZOtherPapers/NewBWJ17Nov1757.html ]

 

Boston, October 17.

Admiral Holbourn, notwithstanding the Inferiority of his Fleet to that of the French, hath constantly kept the Sea, and preserved the Command of it to this Country; hath effectually covered the Colonies, and protected their Trade. And ever since he hath been reinforced with four Ships form England, has been lying off Louisbourg Harbour; by which Means the French Fleet hath neither been able to act against us here, nor dared to return to Europe. This being the Season in which the French must be thinking of getting away from Louisbourg home, the Admiral still kept the Sea; and had the French attempted to come out, would have given his Country a good Account of them. But it hath pleased Heaven to dispose otherwise; for, on Saturday Evening, the 24th of September, or Fleet then lying about ten Leagues South of Louisbourg Harbour, a very violet Gale came up at East, and so to S.E. and blew a Hurricane; the whole Fleet was reduced to the utmost Distress: The Newark and Windsor were obliged to throw several of their upper Deck Guns over board; the Orford Tiller broke short off; the Captain lay Water logg several Minutes, in most imminent Danger, having nine Feet Water in her Hold. The Grafton, Devonshire, Nassau, Prince Frederick, Sunderland, and Nottingham, being close in upon the Rocks, and amongst the Breakers, dropp their Anchors: The Tilbury
foundered, without Hopes of one Person being saved. In this last extream the whole Fleet must in a few Minutes have been lost, and every Soul perished; but it pleased God, the Wind about Noon of the 25th came to the Westward of South, by which our Ships got off the Shore, and bore away. This scene of Distress was so near the Island, that the French could not be ignorant of it: In that, therefore, they suffered our disabled Fleet to come off unmolested, when they might certainly have taken all, or most of them, we hope they must have suffered also. The Admiral persevering in his Intention to the Defence of this Country, hath collected Part of his distressed Fleet at Halifax, disposing of the rest under the Command of Rear Admiral Sir Charles Hardy, where they can best be refitted; having in the mean while sent the Kennington and two Sloops, to look after the State of the Enemy.

And on the 4th Instant, the following Ships arrived at Halifax, viz. The Newark, Admiral Holbourn, well; Somerset, well; Terrible, well; Northumberland, well; Kingston, well; Orford, well; Centurion, lost her Masts; Nottingham, lost her Mizen mast. --- The following Ships are gone home, viz.

Windsor, Admiral Hardy, well; the three following dismasted, viz. Invincible, Captain, and Sunderland. --- The two following are gone to Newfoundland, viz. Nassau, and Grafton, both of which lost their Masts. --- The Nightingale lost her Mizen and Main topmasts. The three following escaped pretty well, viz. the Bedford, Defiance, and lighting Fireship; but the Tilbury of 60 Guns, and 450 Men, Capt. Barnsley, and Ferrit Sloop, were entirely lost, and all the Men perished.

On board the Tilbury was Captain Croxton and Lieutenant Dugdale, with 50 Grenadiers of Warburton Regiment.

Our Province Snow of War, Prince of Wales, Capt. Dowse, was in the same Storm, but suffered no great Damage. He came into Halifax after it was over, but soon sail again on a Cruize.

New York, October 31.

... The Disaster of the English Squadron off Louisbourg the 25th of September last, is confirmed as follows, viz. The Tilbury Man of War, and Ferrit Sloop, lost; the Nottingham lost her Mizen mast and two Anchors, and had 7 Feet Water in her Hold; the Invincible of 74 Guns, Grafton of 70, Nassau of 70, Prince Frederick of 70, Devonshire of 66, Sunderland of 60, Eagle of 60, and Centurion of 50, all lost their Masts; as also the Captain of 70 Guns, who was very nigh being lost, having ten Feet Water in her Hold, and the Sea made a Breach over her for some Time; the Nightingale of 20 Guns lost her Mizen and Main top Masts; the Bedford, Defiance, and Lightning Fireship, escaped; the Terrible of 74 Guns, Northumberland of 70, Somerset of 70, Kingston of 60, and Windsor of 60, are well. Several of the Ships threw over their Guns, to the Amount of about 100. Admiral Hardy hoisted his Flag on board the Windsor, and with the Invincible, Sunderland, Captain and Defiance, sailed for England. After the Storm was over, the Admiral sent the Lightning Fireship to look into Louisbourg; but she was not returned when the last Accounts came from Halifax, so that no Intelligence is yet received of the Damage the French may have received.

Boston, October 31.

We hear from Halifax, from good Authority, that the Centurion and Nottingham Men of War, with two Bombs, sailed the 14th Instant from thence for England, as Convoy to about 40 Sail of Transports: That Admiral Holbourne still remains there with eight Sail of the Line, two or three Frigates, and a Fireship. ---The Cruizers look into Louisbourg a few Days before, and saw Seventeen Sail of the Line, with their Top gallant masts standing; therefore supposed they had not suffered much in the late Storm, as expected they would in such an open Harbour --- The Admiral will stay some Time longer at Halifax, and whenever he departs, will leave a Squadron to guard and protect the Colony.

We have likewise Advice from Halifax, that our Province Snow Prince of Wales, commanded by Capt. Dowse, was lately taken by a French Frigate of 26 Guns, and carried into Louisbourg. As it cannot be doubted by she was soon sent out to cruize on our Trade, hoped all coasting Vessels and others, will be upon their Guard, that they be not decoyed and taken by her.

By the Master of a Vessel which left Halifax a few Days ago, we are further informed, that before he sailed, two Flags of Truce, A Brig and a Schooner, arrived there from Canada, having on board about 200 of our Soldiers, who had been taken at or near Lake George, by the French and Indians; and that a sloop, which had sailed with the, having also a Number of Soldiers on board, was hourly expected. --- That they had Intelligence at Halifax, that 280 of the Men, belonging to the Tilbury Man of War, which was lost in the late Storm off Cape Breton, got ashore, and saved their Lives; and that Captain Bransley, with the Remainder being about 150, perished in the Sea. --- That a French Privateer Schooner from Louisbourg had taken, in about Lat. 38, a Snow from Marblehead, Captain Dimond, and a Snow from this Place, Capt. Boyd, both bound to the West Indies; also a Vessel from Philadelphia, with Flour, for Newfoundland, and on their Return took a small coasting Sloop, --- Dimock, Master, bound from Lunenburg, with Wood, to Halifax; which Vessel the English Master ransomed, and in her arrived at that Port ...

[October 29, 1757]

... October 29th, with the Biddeford Man of War (commanded by Capt. Hood) of Admiral Hawke Squadron, who had then been three Weeks upon a Cruize, with 23 Ships of the Line and 13 Frigates, in Quest of the French Squadron expected Home from Louisbourg, and the St. Domingo Fleet. ...

Extract of a Letter from Capt. Thomas Seymour, of the
Privateer Ship King of Prussia, dated off Cape Sammana,
November 4, 1757, to his Owners in New York.

"This I send to you, Gentlemen, by our Prize Ship, the Phaeton, which we took off the Cape Sammana, bound from Louisbourg to the Cape: She is a fine Ship, mounts 20 Guns, but her Cargo is of no great Value. I hope our next will be better. --- Yesterday I spoke with a Sloop belonging to the Island of St. Thomas, in her Way from the Cape, the Master of which informed me, that there had been a smart Engagement between the English and French, off the Cape: The French Fleet, he says, consisted of three Ships of the Line, viz. one of 74 Guns, one of 64, and one of 60, and four Frigates; (the last mentioned Ship is the Greenwich, which they have made a 60 Gun Ship.) The English consisted of the Augusta, Commodore Forrest; the Edinburgh, Capt. Langdon; and the Dreadnought,
Capt. --- ...

Boston, November 7.

... In the Halifax Gazette of the 22d of October last, there is an Account of the Arrival there of two Flags of Truce from Quebec, one a Brig, the other a Schooner, but last from Louisbourg, with a Number of English Prisoners lately taken at Fort William Henry, and Parts adjacent. In the Brig arrived  one Mr. John Samuel Petit, late Boatswain Mate of the Massachusetts [sic] Snow, Prince of Wales. Capt. Dowse, who was taken the second Day after he left Halifax, off Louisbourg, by the Flower de Luce Frigate, of 26 Guns, and carried into the last mentioned Place: Mr. Petit, among other Things, gave the following Particulars, That he was put on board the Duke of Bayonne, of 80 Guns, where he was kept a Prisoner 20 Days, but by the kind Offices of Mr. Labore, a French Gentleman, to whom be was known, who applied to the Admiral for Liberty for him to go home to his Friends in Boston, urging in his Behalf, that he had formerly been the Means of saving a Ship and her Crew, which he met with at Sea in Distress, took Charge of, and brought safe into Louisbourg, and that he might not be sent home to France along with the rest of the Crew; the Admiral was at length with much
Difficulty prevailed upon to comply with Mr. Labore Desire, and promised he should be sent home by the first Opportunity. Mr. Labore then had Leave to take him ashore to his own House, which he accordingly did, where he was very kindly treated; during which Time Mr. Labore informed him, that some Indians had lately brought in a Number of Scalps, for which they had received the Bounty; a shore Time after, they were found out to be French Scalps (supposed some of the Neutrals, formerly so called) whereupon the Governor and Admiral immediately ordered the Bounty of Scalps to be taken off, and only be paid for such as were brought in alive; and also ordered, that whatever Indians should for the future presume to bring in any Scalps, should be severely punished, which, if true, may be the Means of saving many an Englishman Life. He also informed that it was very sickly in the Fleet, chiefly for Want of Provisions, and that during the 20 Days he was on board the Duke of Bayonne, upwards of 300 of her Men died; Also, that during said Time he had not above half a Pound of Meat allowed him: That the Sickness also rages among the rest of the Fleet, some losing from 100 to 300 of their Men thereby: That all the Land Forces were gone to Quebec, and the Men of War returned before he came away: That in the late Storm, one of the Admiral Ships was drove ashore, by which she received considerable damage in her Keel and Bottom, but that they got her off again, and were repairing her: That the Number of Topsail Vessels in that harbour did not exceed 25, among which were 15 Line of Battle Ships, 4 of which were Flags, and 4 Frigates, the rest Merchantmen: That a small Privateer Schooner, had taken and sent in there a fine large new Snow, Captain Boyd, who arrived also in said Flag of Truce, and two Schooners, Names unknown: That all the People, except 170, belonging to the Tilbury, who was unfortunately cast away in the late Storm, are safe: That Provisions of all Kinds, fresh Meat especially, are so exceeding scarce, that even the best Gentlemen among them are glad to catch at a Mouthful now and then at any Rate; and that he verily believes, that if they do not by some Means or other procure some very soon, they must all inevitably perish ...

Portsmouth, Nov. 9. The Grafton, of 70 Guns, Commodore Holmes, and the Devonshire, of 66 Guns, Capt. Gordon, are arrived this Morning in Portsmouth Harbour, in 42 Days from America. They are Part of the unfortunate Squadron lately cruizing off Louisbourg, and were taken in Tow 120 Leagues by the Dunkirk and Achilles. They are both of them dismasted; the Grafton likewise lost her Rudder, and the Devonshire was obliged to throw Part of her Guns overboard. They had near ten Feet of Water in the Hold, though the Pumps were continually going. They saw a large ship ashore upon Cape Breton, lying on her Side, supposed to be the Tilbury of 60 Guns, Capt. Barnsley. Two or three Ships are still missing, but we hope are safe. The Devonshire has buried upwards of 50 of her Crew, and 150 more are ill of the Scurvy. A large Ship is now in Sight with her Masts gone ...

[Source: Some Selected Reports from Berrow's Worcester Journal Thursday, November 17th, 1757 - http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~dutillieul/ZOtherPapers/NewBWJ17Nov1757.html ]

LONDON. Saturday, Nov. 12.

...

There are fresh Advices from North America, that the Tilbury Man of War was ashore on the Rocks of Louisbourg, but it was hoped great Part of the Men had been saved. And we are further informed, that Adm. Holbourne purposed to winter at Halifax; and that the Transports were sailed from thence for England under Convoy of four Men of War ...

[Source: Some Selected Reports from Berrow's Worcester Journal Thursday, November 17th, 1757 - http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~dutillieul/ZOtherPapers/NewBWJ17Nov1757.html ]

Boston, November 14.

We have Advice from Louisbourg, by Way of Halifax, that the French have taken two New York Privateers, in St. LawrenceRiver; that six privateers were out from Louisbourg, and another preparing to sail; that a Vessel from New York, and another from Philadelphia loaded with Provisions, had been taken, and carried into Louisbourg. ...

Wednesday's and Thursday's POSTS.

...


We hear the Transports from North America are all arrived except three, which are supposed to be lost.
Tis said there is an Account by the Sloop arrived from Halifax, that three French 74 Gun Ships, were drove ashore at Louisbourg, and six more dismasted; and that they were in Hopes the Tilbury Man of War would be got off again, and be in a Condition to come home.
 

...

[Source: Some Selected Reports from Berrow's Worcester Journal Thursday, November 17th, 1757 - http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~dutillieul/ZOtherPapers/NewBWJ17Nov1757.html ]

 

Philadelphia, November 17.

On Friday last Capt. Laws arrived here from Halifax, with whom came Passenger Captain Thomas Hatton, late of the Sloop St. Andrew, of this Port, who informs us, that on the 26th of September he was taken on his Passage from hence to Newfoundland, by a Privateer of Louisbourg, of eight Guns, called the St. Margaret, William Reneau Commander. That soon after the same Privateer took a Sloop from Malagash, bound to Halifax, laden with Wood; which Vessel was ransomed, and in her he got to Halifax: That the Captains Condy, Hamilton and Swainey, sailed for this Place before Captain Laws; and that the two latter had a Number of our People on board, who were made Prisoners by the French and Indians at or near Lake George: That the Highland Regiment has sailed from thence for New York, under Convoy of a Twenty Gun Ship, which lately arrived there in 28 Days from England: That Admiral Holbourne, with nine Capital Ships, and some smaller Ones, was at Halifax: That the French Fleet at Cape Breton, consisted of seventeen Ships of the Line, besides Frigates: That they were said to be very sickly there, and in Want of Provisions: That they had sixteen Privateers belonging to that Port: And that at Canada the French were in great Distress, occasioned by the Scarcity of Provisions. ...

New York, December 26.

... The Ship mentioned in our last Gazette to be run ashore to the Eastward of Barnegat, proves to be a Prize Ship taken by Captain Seymour, in the King of Prussia Privateer, of this Port, on the Fourth of November last. She was loaded with Oil, and was bound to Cape Francois from cape breton. The Cargoe and People saved, but the Vessel doubted. ...

Charles Town, (in South Carolina) December 29. [1757]

... And that the Captains Kemp and Beake, in two Privateers belonging to that Island, had lately taken and sent in there, a French Letter of Marque Sloop, with 6 Carriage Guns, laden with Rum, Sugar, Coffee, &c. from the Cape, bound for Louisbourg, called the Polly, the MasterName Nicola Huett. ...

Philadelphia, December 8.

... From Halifax we learn, that the French Men of War have sailed from Louisbourg, one of our Frigates having looked in there the 27th of October, and saw only one Capital Ship, and two Frigates; and another of our Frigates saw five Sail of them, the 25th of October, at some little Distance from Louisbourg, said to be steering Eastward; but that it was thought Part of their Fleet were gone to Europe, and Part of the West Indies. That Admiral Holbourne sailed on the 14th ult. in the Newark for England, taking only one Fireship with him; and has left to winter at Halifax, under the Command of Lord Colvill, who has a broad Pendant, and a Captain under him, four Ships of 70 Guns, two of 60, and two of 50 Guns. The ships left are the Northumberland, Terrible, Orford, Somerset, Kingston, Defiance, Sutherland, and Arc en Ciel ...

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