EMORY UNIVERSITY
LIBRARY
JOURNAL
OF THE
HOUSE OF DELEGATES
OF
VIRGINIA.
ANNO DOMINI, 1776.
RICHMOND:
i>2 Samuel Sfjepijertr #
1828.
JOURNAL
OF THE
HOUSE OF DELEGATES.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY, begun and holden at the Capitol, in the city of Williamsburg,, on
Monday, the seventh day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred
and seventy-six.
On which day, being the first meeting of this General Assembly, pursuant to the appointment of the late Con¬
vention, the members who appeared having taken the oath directed by law, which was administered by the Privy
Council, repaired to their 6eats in the House of Delegates.
Mr. Treasurer reminded the House of the necessity of proceeding to the choice of a Speaker, and moved that
Edmund Pendleton, Esq who had before presided over the Convention with ability and integrity, should take the
Chair of the House as Speaker; and thereupon the said Edmund Pendleton, Esq. was elected without opposition,
and conducted to the Chair, from whence he made his acknowledgments to the House for the honour they had again
conferred on him.
Ordered, That the several officers of the late Convention be continued officers of this House.
Order09 That the Chaplain attend to read prayers every morning at seven o'clock, and that Mr. Braxton do
wait on the Senate and acquaint them therewith.
The Speaker laid before the House a scheme of trade proposed by the Commissioners of the Navy, and approved
by the Govefnour and Privy Council, with their request that this House would assist in carrying the same into execu¬
tion; which being read,
Resolved, That this House do approve of the said scheme, and that the Treasurer do pay into the hands of the
Governour and Council the sum of 5000/. for carrying the same into execution, and that Mr. Jefferson do carry the
same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The Speaker also laid before the Convection a letter from the Hon. Jahn Page, Esq. informing him, that al¬
though the utmost diligence had been used by the committee appointed to superintend the engraving the seal of the
Commonwealth, the same was not yet completed, and desiring the House would take such steps to remedy the incon-
veniencies arising from the want of a seal, as they should think proper; which was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, October s, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the Convention two letters from the President of the General Congress, enclosing seve¬
ral resolutions of that honourable body; which were read.
Resolved, That this House will on Thursday next resolve itself into a committee to take into their considera¬
tion the said letters and resolutions.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee to take into their consideration the
state of the country.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, together with several papers therein referred to;
which were read, and ordered to be referred to the committee upon the state of the country.
Resolved, That this House will on Thursday next proceeed to the appointment of a delegate to represent this
State in General Congress, in the room of Thomas Jefferson, Esq. and of two Privy Counsellors, in the room of
4
Benjamin Harrison, Esq. of Berkeley, and Charles Carter, Esq. who have severally declined the said appoint¬
ments; and that Mr. Starke do wait upon the Senate, and acquaint them therewith.
A petition of the inhabitants on the western parts of Fincastle county, was presented to the House, and read;
setting forth, that they became adventurers in that part of the county in the year 1774, and were obliged by the in¬
cursions of the Indians to abandon their settlements, after having discovered and explored the country; that others
afterwards became adventurers, and claimed the lands by warrants from Lord Dunmore, under the royal proclama¬
tion of 1763; and a company of men from North Carolina purchased, or pretended to purchase, from the Cherokee
Indians, all the lands from the southernmost waters of Cumberland river to the banks of the Louisa river, including
the lands in Powell's Valley, by virtue of which purchase, they styled themselves the absolute proprietors of the new
independent province of Transylvania; that officers, both civil and military, are appointed, writs of election issued,
assemblies convened, a land office opened, and lands sold at an exorbitant price, and a system of policy introduced,
not agreeing with that lately adopted by the United Colonies, and that they have the greatest reason to question the
validity of the purchase aforesaid; that they consider themselves, and the said lands, to be within the State of Vir¬
ginia, whose Legislature they acknowledge, and to which State they conceive they justly belong; that having as¬
sembled together, after due notice, they had elected two members to represent them in this House, and hoping they
may be received as their delegates; that they are ready and willing, to the utmost of their abilities, to assist in the
support of the present laudable cause, by contributing their quota of men and money; and that, in order to preserve
good order, they had, as was done in West Jlugusta, elected a committee, consisting of 21 members; and cheerfully
submitting their case to the House.
Also a petition from the committee of West Fincastle to the same purpose.
Ordered, That the said petitions do lie on the table.
A petition of John Liviston was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in the year 1758, he was
a soldier under the command of capt. John Dickerson, and while stationed at Fort Young, in an engagement with
the Indians, he received a wound in his right wrist, which has rendered him incapable of supporting a family, con¬
sisting of six small children; that he should long ago have made application for relief, had it not been for his remote
situation, and ignorance as to the right mode of applying, and his having some hopes that his wound would grow bet¬
ter, which however has not been the case, and praying such relief as this House shall think reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to Mr. Penn, Mr. Terry, and Mr. Watkins; and that they enquire
into the matter thereof,^and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee:
Mr.' Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for paying the sum of 5000/. to the Go-
vernour and Council, in order to carry into execution the scheme of trade therein mentioned; and he presented the
said resolution at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That the Committee of Privileges and Elections be revived, to consist of the following persons: Mr.
Treasurer, Mr. Bland, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Jones, Mr. Fitzhugh, Mr. Richard Lee, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Richard
S. Taylor, Mr. Clayton, Mr. Thornton, Mr. Thomas Lewis, Mr. Banister, Mr. George Mason, Mr. Starke,
Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Poythress, Mr. Wilson M. Cary, Mr. Reade, Mr. Johnston, Mr. Meriwether, Mr. Garland,
Mr. Farmer, Mr. Montague, Mr. Speed, Mr. Goode, Mr. Cowper, Mr. Cralle, Mr. Nathaniel L. Savage, Mr.
George Savage, Mr. Madison, Mr. Moore, Mr. Lankford, Mr. Williams, Mr. Watts, Mr. Booker, Mr. Muse,
Mr. M'Carty, Mr. Gray, Mr. Henry Taylor, Mr. Brent, Mr. Cocke, Mr. Faulc.on, Mr. Gee, Mr. Richard Cary,
Mr. Washington, Mr. James Taylor, Mr. Samuel Harwood, Mr. Burwell, Mr. Mercer, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Car¬
ter, Mr. Riddick, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Thoroughgood, Mr. Curie, Mr. Kenner, Mr. Simpson, and Mr. Lyne.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be revived, to consist of the following persons:
Mr. Harrison, Mr. Treasurer, Mr. William Harwood, Mr. Penn, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Maclin, Mr.
Tazewell, Mr. Pattison, Mr. John Cabell, Mr. Jlcrill, Mr. Strother, Mr. Mayo, Mr. Bird, Mr. Tipton, Mr.
King, Mr. Meriwether Smith, Mr. Edmuudsun, Mr. West, Mr. Pickett, Mr. Scott, Mr. Woodson, Mr, Syme,
Mr. Wilkinson, Mr. Norvell, Mr. Wills, Mr. Faulcon, Mr. Gordon, Mr. Clapham, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Carter,
Mr. Griffin, Mr. Mann Page of Gloucester, Mr. Boiling, Mr. Prentis, Mr. Mann Page of Spotsylvania, Mr.
Mercer, Mr. M'Dowell, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Russell, Mr. Kenner, Mr. William Digges, Mr. Campbell, Mr. Harvie,
Mr. Wood, Mr. Curie, and Mr. George Mason.
Ordered, That the Committee of Publick Claims be revived, to consist of the following persons: Mr. Richard Lee,
Mr.Jidams, Mr. Talbot, Mr. Tazewell, Mr. Benjamin Watkins, Mr. King, Mr. Gordon, Mr. Clayton, Mr. Muse,
Mr. Gray, Mr. Thornton, Mr. Clapham, Mr. Terry, Mr. Peyton, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Poythress, Mr. Hite, Mr.
Lankford, Mr. Meriwether, Mr. Davenport, Mr. Jirmistead Russell, Mr. Wilson, Mr Anderson, Mr. Judkins,
Mr. Richard Cary, Mr. Wilkinson, Mr. M'Dowell, Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Scott, Mr. Lockhart, Mr. Campbell, Mr.
Gee, Mr Fulgham, Mr. Simms, and Mr. Fleming.'
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
5
WEDNESDAY, October 9, 1776.
A petition of John Tayioe Corbin was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in consequence of
a letter written about twelve months ago, he unhappily incurred the displetture of this House, and was sentenced to
confinement to that part of the county of Caroline which lies between Pamunkey and Maltapony rivers, at the same
time giving bond in the penalty of 10,000/. not to depart those limits till permitted so to do by this House, or during
their recess, by the Committee of Safety, or others having the executive powers of government, to which sentence
your petitioner patiently submitted, as it was the pleasure of so respectable a body of his countrymen. That he has
found, from five months painful experience, that he must be deprived of the comfort and satisfaction of having his fa¬
mily with htm, not having it in his poi$lr to accommodate them even tolerably, an inconvenience which, from the scarcity
of materials for building, it is impossible at this time to remedy. That the remoteness of his situation prevents his
even hearing from his family and friends but very seldom, and occasions great loss to him, from his being unable to
visit his plantations in the lower part of the country. That the near approach of winter must render his situation,
which has been hitherto very uncomfortable, still more so, if he is longer kept in confinement. That he is sincerely
sorry for the unhappy step which has caused the displeasure of this House, and flatters himself that his future conduct
will merit the full esteem of his countrymen.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Privileges and Elections; that they inquire into
the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Two petitions from the inhabitants of Pittsylvania were presented to the House, and read; setting forth the great
inconveniencies to which they were subjected by the extensive bounds of their county, as well in attending their4 county
courts as on other publick occasions, and therefore praying that a division of their said county might take place.
Ordered, That the said petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Daniel Lawson and George Garland, late inspectors of Totuskey warehouse, was presented to the
House, and read; setting forth, that in the month of May, in the year of our Lord 1775, on the delivery of the tobacco
received at the said warehouse, they discovered that one hogshead, marked with the letters H. S. and No. 5, weighing
1065lbs. neat, was missing, and that they had at all times, on leaving the warehouse, secured the doors; that in con¬
sequence thereof they applied to the next Assembly after for redress, having been obliged to satisfy the proprietor for
his loss of the tobacco, but the Assembly refused to make them, any satisfaction for the same, because they had not
sued out a search warrant for the tobacco aforesaid, which they conceive could not have been obtained without a vio¬
lation of law and the constitution, as they could not, with any certainty, make oath that they had good reason to sus¬
pect any particular place; and praying to be allowed such satisfaction, for the loss- aforesaid, as to this House shall
seem just and reasonable.
Ordered^That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matter
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House
A petition of Griffin Garland, surveyor of the.county of Richmond, and Charles Barber of the same county,
was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that the said Charles Barber, on the ninth day of November last
past, did obtain from the Right Hon. Thomas Lord Fairfax, proprietor of the Northern Neck of Virginia, a war¬
rant to survey certain waste and ungranted lands adjoining the lands of Charles Carter, Esquire, lying in the county,
aforesaid, which warrant he delivered to the said Griffin Garland, who proceeded, as he thought it his duty, to survey
the lands mentioned in the said warrant on the 12th day of December following, but was prevented by the inclemency
of the weather from prosecuting the said work until the 24th of January, 1776, when both the petitioners were taken
into custody by Mr. Benjamin Bramham, under sheriff of the said county of Richmond, by virtue of a warrant
issued by London Carter, Esquire; expressly requiring the said sheriff to bring them before him; that, in obedience
to the said warrant, they attended the said London Carter, where they were charged with a breach of the peace; that
they were thence ordered by a mittimus to the jailor of the said county, and at the succeeding court held for the said
county, were called, and appeared at the bar, but no determination could be obtained upon their case; that they have
attended the said court ever since, and praying that this tfouse would take such order concerning the matters aforesaid
as to them should seem just.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Privileges and Elections; that they inquire into
the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of William Blakely was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that on the 15th of July
last, he had his best horse pressed by Messrs. Grubb and Cox to bring the Cookes down to Williamsburg, by which
he was much injured; that he has received no satisfaction for the same; that the said Cox also left with him a tired
horse, which was put in a fresh pasture till his return, and praying such satisfaction as this House shall think just.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matter
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That the resolution proposed to the late Convention on the 27th day of June last past, the consideration
whereof was postponed till the present session of Assembly, be referred to the Committee on the State of the Country.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country; and,
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration, the state of the country, and had come to the following resolution
8
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
jvjr, speaker
' The Senate have agreed to a resolution of this House for allowing the sum of fifteen pounds to
John Liviston for his present relief, and the farther sum of eight pouftds per annum during life, for the wound he
received in the country's service. ' .
The Senate have also agreed to the proposition of this House, that in the election of two Counsellors, and in all
future elections, to be made by joint ballot of both Houses, those who have the greatest number of votes shall be con¬
sidered as elected., and he delivered the same at the bar, and then withdrew.
On a motion made,
Ordered That Mr. William Dandridge, junior, be appointed clerk to the committee of Religion.
Ordered That the petitions from the inhabitants of the western parts of Fincastle, and from the committee
elected bv the said inhabitants, presented to the House on Tuesday last, and ordered to lie upon the table, be referred
to the committee upon the State of the Country.
A petition of Thomas Slaughter, on behalf of himself and the other inhabitants situate near Kentucky, was pre¬
sented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they are exposed to the incursions and depredations of the Indians,
and from their small number are incapable of protecting themselves; that their militia's not being embodied, greatly
increases their danger; and praying that some method may be fixed on to protect and defend the said inhabitants, and
that in the mean time militia commissions may be issued in order to train the militia.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee of Privileges and Elections, reported, that the committee had, according to
order, had under their consideration the petition of John Tayloe Corbin, to them referred, and had come to a resolution
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same was again twice
read, and ordered to be re-committed to the said committee.
The House, according to the order of the day, proceeded, by ballot, to the appointment of two Privy Counsel¬
lors; and the members having prepared tickets for the persons to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box,
Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Clayton, Mr. Starke, and Mr. Richard Cary, were appointed a committee to
meet a committee to be appointed by the Senate, and jointly with them to examine the ballot boxes, and report to the
House upon whom the majority fell.
Ordered, That Mr Treasurer do acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
committee from the Senate in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that the
majority appeared in favour of Thomas Walker and Fielding Lewis, Esquires.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Thomas Walker and Fielding Lewis be appointed members of the Privy
Council of this State.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee of Privileges and Elections, reported, that the committee had examined seve¬
ral certificates of the election of Delegates, and compared the same with the form prescribed by law, and had come to
the following resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where
the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved,. That the certificates of the election of a Delegate to serve in this present General Assembly, for each
of the counties of Chesterfield, Culpeper, Gloucester, Hanover, King William, New Kent, Prince William,
Stafford, Sussex, York, and the city of Williamsburg, and of two Delegates for the county of Norfolk, are made
in the form prescribed by law.
Ordered, That the committee of the whole House be discharged from proceeding upon the letters from the Pre¬
sident of the General Congress, and resolutions closed therein, and that the same be referred to the committee upon
the State of the Country.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country,
and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee
had, according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolu¬
tions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
On consideration of part of the Governour's letter respecting the calling into actual service twenty-six companies
of militia from several counties, and five companies of minute-men of the Princess JLnne battalion, and the papers
referred to on that subject,
Resolved, That although they have the greatest confidence that the above measure was adopted by the Governour
and Council from the best motives, and a sincere intention to serve the country, yet this committee are of opinion,
that, in the present situation of affairs, it is unnecessary to call into service any of the militia, and do therefore recom¬
mend to the Governour and Council to order back such as are already in motion, and to countermand the orders given
to those who are not yet on their march. If, however, the probable approach of an enemy should render it necessary
to call on the militia, they doubt not but the Governour and Council will array so many as the exigence may require,
according to the power with which they are invested by law.
Resolved, That the inhabitants of the western part of Fincastle not being allowed by law a distinct representa¬
tion in General Assembly, the delegates chosen to represent them in this House, cannot be admitted. At the same
9
time, the committee are of opinion, that the said inhabitants ought to be formed into a distinct county, in order to
entitle them to such representation, and other benefits of government.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to communieate to the Governour, the first of the said resolutions; and
that Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Braxton, and Mr. Jefferson, be a committee to prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the
last resolution.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For the establishment of courts of justice within this Com•
monwealth; and that Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Smith, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Watts, Mr. Williams, Mr. Gray,
Mr. Bland, Mr. Braxton, and Mr. Curie, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Tabb, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Richard Squire Taylor, be added to the committee appointed
to prepare and bring in a bill To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther consi¬
deration the state of the country.
Ordered, That Mr. Williams be added to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, October 12, 1776.
Resolved, unanimously, That the thanks of this House are justly due to Thomas Jefferson, and Carter Brax¬
ton, Esquires, for the diligence, ability, and integrity, with which they executed the important trust reposed in them
as two of the delegates for this country in the General Congress.
The Speaker accordingly delivered the thanks of the House to the said Thomas Jefferson and Carter Braxton,
in their places, who expressed the great pleasure they received from this distinguished testimony of their country's
approbation of their services.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to issue his warrant for the election of a delegate to serve in this House
for the county of Charles City, during the necessary absence of Benjamin Harrison, Esquire, one of the delegates
appointed to represent this country in the General Congress.
Mr. Curie, from the committee to whom the petition of Mary Webley was referred, reported, that the committee
had, according to order, had under their consideration the said petition, and had come to the following resolution
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice
read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioner be allowed the sum of ten pounds for her
immediate relief.
Ordered, That Mr. Curie do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to request the attendance of a member of the Privy Council at the Capitol,
from the hour of 10 to 11 o'clock in the morning, to administer the oath directed by law to be taken by a delegate, to
such of the members as have not already taken the same, and shall be there for that purpose when they shall receive
on each day previous notice that the attendance of such Privy Counsellor is necessary.
A petition of Jacob Cunes was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he was appointed by the
Committee of Safety armorer to the troops which marched to Norfolk in the month of November last; that, before he
entered on the said business, he waited on the Committee of Safety to know what wages he was to receive, and was
told, that as the Convention had not fixed any price to be paid for those services, they could not inform him, but ad¬
vised him to continue his accounts in the same manner as he had done those they had already settled with him; that
he accordingly undertook the business, purchased necessaries to a considerable amount, and hired several workmen for
expediting the business; that he has made out his accounts in the manner he was directed, and waited on the commis¬
sioners appointed to examine the publick accounts, but they refuse to settle the same for the services done since the
end of February last; that the gentlemen authorised to settle the remainder of his accounts have refused to do it, telling
him he must charge for his services by the day, and that he must prove the number of days, and hands he employed
each day,- which is now out of his power to do, as no account of that sort has ever been kept by him, and praying that
his accounts may be examined by the gentlemen appointed to examine all publick accounts, or in any other way the
House shall think proper.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matter
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Colin Campbell was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he has for many years
held the office of adjutant to a district within this government, and has through the whole time used his best endea¬
vours to train the militia under his care, and he is willing to hope that his country has received some benefit from the
diligence with which he discharged that duty; that he has received no satisfaction, or reward, since the 25th of April,
1775* that he was advised to apply for a flag to go on board the fleet when at Norfolk, in order to obtain a warrant
from Lord Dunmore to the receiver general, but he chose rather to risk the loss than hold a communication which
might bring into the smallest doubt his zeal and attachment to the American cause'; that the authority by which pay¬
ments were formerly made from the revenue being now at an end, he hopes this House will make him such satisfaction
as shall be thought just and reasonable.
10
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matter
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Halifax, whose names are thereunto subscribed, was presented
to the House, and read; setting forth, that great inconveniencies would attend the removal of the courthouse of their
county from the place where courts are now held, and praying that courts may be continued and held at the present
established place.
Also a petition of John Bouram, praying that if the courthouse of the said county of Halifax should be removed,
it may be to his land, which, on a survey, has been found to be the most central part of the said county.
Also a petition of George Watkins, setting forth, that he owns a tract of land within a quarter of a mile of the
centre of the said county of Halifax, very convenient for the purpose .of holding courts; and that if the courthouse
shall be directed to be built on his land, he will, at his own expense, remove the timber prepared for building a court¬
house, and provide in the mean time a house for holding the court till Christmas next.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition~of sundrj' inhabitants of the county of Isle of Wight, whose names are thereunto subscribed, was pre¬
sented to the House, and read; setting forth, that by virtue of an act of Assembly, intituled Jin act for ports, the
court of the said county purchased and paid for fifty acres of land situate on the lower side of Pagan creek, in the
county aforesaid, which they intended for a town, and called the same Patesfield; that the inhabitants of the said
town, and others intending to settle there, soon finding it would not answer the purpose for which it was intended,
being inconveniently situated for trade, removed from their habitations, and others neglected to build on the lots of
which they were then possessed, by which means many of the lots remain undisposed of, and others are claimed by
persons who have no legal title thereto; and praying that the lots in the said town undisposed of, may be vested in
trustees, and sold for the benefit of the county.
Ordered, That Mr. Wills and Mr. Fulgham, be a committee to prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the prayer
of the said petition.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That leave be given to prepare and bring in a bill To enable tenants in taille to convey their lands in
fee simple; and that Mr. Bland, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Starke, and Mr. Bullitt, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That leave be given to prepare and bring in a bill For the revision of the laws; and that Mr. Bland,
Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Starke, be a committee for that purpose.
Ordered, That Mr. Smith be added to the Committee of Privileges and Elections, Mr. Terry and Mr. Wat-
kins, to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, and Mr. Nelson, to the Committee of Privileges and Elec¬
tions, Propositions and Grievances, and to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill to revive and amend
the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco.
Ordered, That a Committee for Courts of Justice be appointed, of the following persons: Mr. Jones, Mr. Wood¬
son, Mr. Gray, Mr. Taylor, Mr. King, Mr Fleming, Mr. Curie, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Richard Cary, Mr. Clay¬
ton, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Watts, Mr, Williams, Mr. Strother, Mr. Wills, Mr. Ewell, Mr. Talbot, and Mr. Scott;
and they are to meet and adjourn from day to day, and to take into their consideration all matters relating to
Courts of Justice, and such other matters as shall from time to time be referred to them, and report their proceedings,
with their opinions thereupon, to the House. And the said committee are to inspect the journals of the last session,
and draw up a state of the matters then depending and undetermined, and the progress that was made therein, and re¬
port the.same to the House, and also examine what laws have expired since the last session, and inspect such temporary
laws as will expire with the end of this session, or are near expiring, and report the same to the House, with their opi¬
nions which of them are fit to be revived and continued; and the said committee are to have power Jo send for per¬
sons, papers, and records, for their information.
Resolved, That the farther sum of 100/. current money be advanced to James Kaughan, on his giving bond
with sufficient security to re-pay the same in saltpetre, at the price of three shillings per pound; and that Mr. Jidarns
do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That the several County Court Clerks do immediately transmit to this House copies of the list of titha-
bles in their counties, and also the publick accounts, to enable the Committee of Claims to lay the publick levy.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country; and after
some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, ac¬
cording to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon, which lie read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the Governour be authorised to issue all necessary commissions under his signature, without any
seal, till the seal of the Commonwealth can be provided, as directed by ordinance of Convention.
Resolved, That so much of an ordinance of the last Convention as fixes the stations of the troops raised for the pro¬
tection of the frontiers, ought to be repealed
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Smith, do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the first
of the said resolutions; and that Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Lewis, Mr. M'Dowell, Mr. Hite, and Mr. Lockhart, do pre¬
pare and bring in a bill pursuant to"the second resolution.
11
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther
consideration the state of the country.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a b\\l To continue the powers given to the Governour and Council
by an ordinance of the last Convention, which will shortly expire; and that Mr. Starke, Mr. Bullitt, and Mr.
Jefferson, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That Mr.. Anderson, Mr. Brent, and Mr. Ewell, be added to the committee appointed to bring in a
bill To revive and amend the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco.
Ordered, That Mr.- Bullitt, Mr. Wills, Mr. Smith, and Mr. Griffin, he added to the committee of Religion.
A petition of the inhabitants of the counties of Amherst and Bedford, whose names are thereunto subscribed;
was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that having frequently business at the courts of the said counties,
and having the Fluvannah river to cross, they are obliged to go greatly out of their way; that a ferry established across
the said river at or near the lower end of Henry Trent's land, on the north side of the said river, in the county of
Amherst, to the land of Nicholas Davies, in Bedford county, would be much more convenient to your petitioners,
and also to travellers, and no ways inconvenient or prejudicial to others; and praying, that a ferry may be established
at the above mentioned place.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding upon the petitions
of sundry inhabitants of the parish of Strut ton-Major, in the county of Ki ng and Queen, of the members of the Bap¬
tist Church in the county of Prince William, and of sundry inhabitants of the parish of Newport, in the county of
Isle of Wight, and that the same be referred to the Committee of Religion.
On a motion made, that the House do agree to the following resolution,
Resolved, That the Governour, with the advice of the Privy Council, be empowered to purchase, on account of
the publick, and at a generous price, all the salt that may be imported into this country, in course of the next six
months, and that he be authorised to issue his warrant on the Treasurer to pay for the same; that such salt, when pur¬
chased, be immediately stored in some convenient and secure parts of the country, and distributed by order of the
Governour, with advice of the Council, amongst the inhabitants of the different counties, in such proportions as their
exigencies may require, and the quantity procured may admit, regard being principally had to such counties as are
farthest removed from salt water; and that the receivers o^ the salt do pay into the hands of such persons as may be ap¬
pointed for that purpose, at the time of the delivery, so much per bushel as the Governour, with the advice of the
Council, may judge reasonable; the money, when received, to be paid with all convenient despatch into the treasury,
for reimbursing the publick.
Ordered, That the said resolution be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; and they are to
consider thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to thfe House.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, October 14, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from Mr. James Tait, which was read, and ordered to lie upon the
table.
A petition of Charles Henley was presented to the House, and read, praying to be released from his confinemept.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Privileges and Elections; that they inquire into
the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Resolved, That the commissioners of the navy be empowered to employ any of the seamen taken prisoners on
board the ship Oxford, in the cruisers or row-gallies belonging to this country, if they shall be willing to enter into
the service. .
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration the petitions of sundry inhabitants of the county of Pittsylvania, to them re¬
ferred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in
at the Clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That so much of the said petitions as pray for a division of the county, is reasonable.
Resolved, That so much of the said petitions as pray that the lines therein respectively described, may be the
dividing line, be rejected.
Resolved, That a line ought to be run from the mouth of Blackwater, on Staunton river, parallel with the line
of Halifax county, till it strikes the country line.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the said
resolutions.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill for the removal of the seat of government; and that Mr. Jeffer¬
son, Mr. Adams, and Mr. Starke, do prepare and bring in the same.
12
Ordered, That the said bill be presented on Monday the 11th day of November; that there be then a call of the
House, and that in the mean time the Speaker write letters to the members, requiring them to attend on that day,
in their places, on pain of the censures of the House, and send such letters by such conveyances as may occur.
A petition of William Wilson was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he was a Serjeant in
Captain Lewis's company, in the battle with the Ohio Indians, in October 1774, andReceived a wound a little below
his left breast, which went through his body, and came out at the point of his shoulder blade, after which he was a
considerable time afflicted, and even now, when he follows his labour, finds some inconvenience and pain; and praying
that his case may be considered, and such relief granted as may be judged reasonable. _ ,
Also a petition of Walter Steward, setting forth, that he was appointed Adjutant to the Botetourt and Fmcastle
troops on the expedition against the Ohio Indians; that his duty required he should have a horse, which he accor¬
dingly procured, and had appraised, and was continued in the service until the battle at Point Pleasant, after which
he never could be found; and praying to be allowed the sum of 14/. for the said horse, the price at which he was valued.
Ordered, That the said petitions be referred to the committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the mat¬
ters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill declaring slaves to be personal estate, and that Mr. Bullitt and
Mr. Robinson do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To enable tenants in taille
to convey their lands in fee simple; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That this State,"contributing to the expense of the navy built by the continent, ought also to share in
the protection which it may yield to the American trade, and therefore that the delegates attending the General Con¬
gress from this country be directed to apply for as many of the ships and vessels of war, to be stationed on this coast,
as they may judge reasonable, subject to the call of Congress, whenever the general good of the continent may require
a junction of the whole navy.
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That Mr. Jones, Mr. Henry, Mr. Tazewell, and Mr. Read, be added to the committee appointed to
prepare and bring in a bill For the establishment of Courts of Justice. I
A petition of Thomas Jacobs and Edmund Bailey, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that a
negro man slave belonging to the petitioner Jacobs, and three others belonging to the said Bailey, seized a small ves¬
sel and made an attempt to get to lord Dunmore, but happened to miss the fleet, and fall into the hands of some of the
country soldiers, by whom they were secured, and sent to Williamsburg; that one of them was returned to the said
Bailey, and the three others sent to work in the mines, for whose labour they were to receive a price; that their situa¬
tion in life makes it inconvenient for them to be without the assistance of those slaves to till their lands, and as the
fear of desertion to our enemies is now happily removed, they hope there are no publick reasons why they should be
longer continued where they are.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Henry, Mr. Tazewell, and Mr. Read, be added to the Committee for Courts of Justice.
Ordered, That Mr. Madison, Mr. Syme, Mr. Moore, and Mr. Fitzhugh, be added to the Committee of
THeligion.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For the naturalization of foreigners; and that Mr. Jefferson,
Mr. Bland, and Mr. Terry, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Maclin have leave of absence from the service of this House, until this day fortnight for
the recovery of his health. '
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For the naturalization of
Joreigners; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
The order, of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow. 6
Ordered, That Mr. Jones, and Mr. Smith, be added to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill
lo revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments
Griev^S: a„71S&tX^o" beadded 'he C°mmiUee °f Propositions and
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, October 15, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour enclosing one from the President Rutledze to
him, desiring Messrs. Warley.and Lesene, officers from South Carolina, might not be impeded in entain"mfn in
lolieTlhe tah?e.reqU' S coun,enance and suPP°rt * ^ State in their favour; which was read, and"ordered
Mr, Bl&nd, frttm the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For the revision of the laws-
Which wks read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
^ Mr. Treasurer, from the Committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To empower the Governour
to issue commissions without the seal of the Commonwealth; which was read a first time, and ordered to be read
a Second time.
Mr. Starke, from the Committee appointed, presented, according to .order, a bill To continue the powers given
to the Governour and Council bp an ordinance of the last Convention, which will shortly expire: and the said
Dill was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For dividing the county of
Fmcastle into two distinct counties; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A bill To enable tendnts in taille to convey their lands in fee simple was read a second time, and ordered to
be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday next resolve itself into a committee upon the said bill.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following reso¬
lution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was
again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That six new battalions of infantry be raised and employed in the continental service, upon the terms
and according to the requisition of the General Congress, and that provision be made for completing the nine battalions
formerly raised, and extending the additional bounty to such of them as shall be willing to enlist on the like terms.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Nelson, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Smith, do prepare and bring
in a bill pursuant to the said resolution.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Cabell:
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for advancing to James Vaughan the
sum of 100/. on his giving bond, with sufficient security, to repay the same in saltpetre; and then he withdrew.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing a resolution of the General Congress;
which was read, and ordered to be referred to the Committee on the State of the Country.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Elzey:
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House empowering the Commissioners of the
Navy to employ any of the seamen taken priaoncro on board the ahip Oicjurd in the cruisers or row-gallies belonging
to this country, if they shall be willing to enter into the service; and then he withdrew.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petition of Colin Campbell to them referred, and had come to the following resolution there¬
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice
read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition, praying the usual allowance for the petitioner's services, as adjutant of the mi¬
litia in the southern district of this country, from the 25th day of April, 1775, be rejected.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration the petition of Thomas Jacobs, and Edmund Bailey, to them referred, and
had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's
table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition is.reasonable, and that the slaves JoeAcum, Joe, and Peter, in the petition men¬
tioned, be delivered to the petitioner.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That Luke', a negro man slave belonging to John Bailey, employed in the lead mines, be in like man¬
ner delivered to him. ... 1 ,
Resolved, That the Governour be desired to take proper measures for the removal ol the said several slaves to the
city of Williamsburg, at the publick expense. .
A petition of William TJnwon, Francis Jackson, Peter Myet, and Richard Habbitt, prisoners of war of the
fourteenth regiment of British regulars, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they are greatly
distressed for want of necessary clothing, and praying that this House, in their wonted lenity and tenderness, will take
their case into consideration, and grant them such supplies of necessary clothing as shall be judged reasonable.
Ordered That the said petition be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr Treasurer from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To repeal so much of an
ordinance as fixes the stations of the troops raised for the protection of the frontiers; which was read the first
limp and ordered to be read a second time.
a b;u Tn pmnnwer the Governour to issue commissions without the seal of the Commonwealth, was read a
second time'andTrdered to bo committed to Mr. Treasury Mr. Smith, and Mr. M'Dowell.
14
A petition from the inhabitants of Tyger's Valley was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, the greal
inconveniencies which would attend their being considered as inhabitants of West Augusta, as well in regard to theii
trade as publick business, and praying they may still be allowed to continue in East Augusta.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Another petition from the said inhabitants was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they are in
a very remote situation, and not within less than eighty miles of any relief in case of an attack from the Indians,
which they daily expect; that, notwithstanding their weakness, they are unanimously willing to withstand the enemy;
and praying that three companies of rangers may be employed for their defence, and stationed in different forts, as
may best answer the purpose.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For dividing the county of
Pittsylvania; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Two petitions of sundry inhabitants of the counties of King George and Stafford, were presented to the House,
and read; praying, that the boundaries of the said counties may be established agreeable to the report of the "commis¬
sioners formerly appointed to regulate the same.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill pursuant to the prayer of the said petitions; and that Mr. Jones,
Mr. Fitzhugh, Mr. Brent, and Mr. Carter, be a committee to prepare and bring in the same.
A bill For the naturalization of foreigners was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a commit¬
tee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Friday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To appoint auditors of publick accounts, and that Mr. Griffin
and Mr. Jefferson do prepare and bring in the same.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a cpmmittee, to take into their farther consi¬
deration the state of the country.
Ordered, That Mr Kenner and Mr. Burwell be added to the Committee of Religion, and that Mr. Tarlton
Fleming be added to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
Ordered, That the committee to whom it was referred, at the last Convention, to settle and state such of the
claims against the publick, on account of the late expedition against the Indians, as then remained unsettled, and to
revise those already settled in West Augusta, be revived, to consist of the following persons: Mr. Thomas Lewis,
Mr. Fleming, Mr. Winn, Mr. Wood, Mr. Bird, Mr. Tipton, Mr. Hite, Mr. Simms, Mr. APDowell, Mr Aladi-
son, Mr. Aloore, Mr. Strother, Mr. Simpson, Mr. Richard Cary, Mr. Lock hart, Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Johnson,
and Mr. Bullitt. —' - - - -- -
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, October 16, 1776.
Mr. Richard Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order,
had under their consideration two petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon;
which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and
agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of Walter Steward, adjutant to the Botetourt and Fincastle troops, on the expedi¬
tion against the Ohio Indians in the year 1774, to be allowed for a horse which he furnished by permission of the
commanding officer, who thought the duty of that office necessarily required one, and was lost in that service, is rea¬
sonable, and that the petitioner be allowed 14/. for the said horse, being the sum to which he was appraised.
Resolved, That the petition of William Wilson, a serjeant in Capt. Lewis's company, who was wounded in the
engagement with the Ohio Indians, in October, 1774, by a ball which passed through from the left side of the breast
to the shoulder blade, is reasonable, and that the petitioner be allowed the sum of 251. as a recompense for the wound
he received in the country's service.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Jones, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For altering and establishing
the boundaries of the counties of Stafford and King George; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read
a second time.
A bill For the revision of the laws, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill To continue the powers given to the Governour and Council by an ordinance of the last Convention,
which will shortly expire, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill To repeal so much of an ordinance as fixes the stations of the troops raised for the protection of the
frontiers, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill For dividing the county of Pittsylvania into two distinct counties, was read a second time, and ordered
to be engrossed and read a third time.
15
Mr. Treasurer, from the. committee to whom the bill To empower the Governour to issue commissions without
the seal of the CommonwealthWas committed, reported, that the committee had gone through the bill, and had
made some amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where
the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
% Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed, and read a third time.
A bill For the dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct counties, was read a second time, and ordered
to be committed to Mr. Jefferson and the members for Augusta and Botetourt
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For amending and farther continuing an ordinance to amend
An ordinance intituled an ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this
colony; and that Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Lee, Mr. Curie, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Jefferson, do prepare and
bring in the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke and Mr Goode, be added to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, Mr.
Norvell and Mr. Talbot to the Committee of Religion, and Mr. Williams to the Committee of Publick Claims.
Resolved, That this House will not proceed to business without a majority of members be present.
An engrossed bill, To empower the Governour to issue commissions without the seal of the Commonwealth,
was read a third time.
Resolved, That the bill do pass, and that the title be A bill to empower the Governour to issue commissions
without the seal of the Commonwealth, and to confirm those already issued.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said bill to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Privileges and Elections, reported, that the Committee had, according to
order, had under their consideration the information against David Ross, charging him with having delivered a colo¬
nel's commission to bringthe Indians against this country, and having examined sundry witnesses, find their testi¬
mony had no relation to the charge, and had therefore come to the following resolution thereupon:
Resolved, That the accusation contained in the information lodged before Mr. Williams in the county of PitsyU
vania, and afterwards given in to the Convention against David Ross, is false and groundless.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the witnesses who have attended the said examination be allowed for their attendance by the Com¬
mittee of Publick Claims.
A petition of the dissenters from the ecclesiastical establishment was presented to the House, and read; setting
forth, that being delivered from British, oppression, in common with the other inhabitants of this Commonwealth,
they rejoice in the prospect of having their freedom secured and maintained to them and their posterity inviolate; that
their hopes have been raised and confirmed by the declarations of this House with regard to equal liberty, that invalu¬
able blessing, which, though it be the birthright of every good member of the State, they have been deprived of, in
that, by taxation, their property hath been wrested from them and given to those from whom they receive no equi¬
valent; that having long groaned under the burthen of an ecclesiastical establishment, they pray that this, as well as
every other yoke, may be broken, and that the oppressed may go free, that so, every religious denomination being on
a level, animosities may cease, and Christian forbearance, love, and charity, practised towards each other, while the
Legislature interferes only to support them in their just rights and equal privileges.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Religion; that they inquire into the allegations
i thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the Hou<e.
i A petition of the committee of Dunmore county, praying that some mode may be adopted to oblige those who
> conscientiously scruple the use of arms to make an adequate contribution towards the public expense in lieu thereof,
and submitting it to the House whether it might not be reasonable to allow any person who should choose to contri-
ibute to the support of the publick in lieu of attending musters, the same indulgence as to those who refuse from con¬
scientious principles
< Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
: A petition of John Craig was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that his waggon and team were
j employed in the service of the country, and ordered to attend the seventh regiment on their march from WiUiams-
\burg to Gloucester, about the 15th of March last, when the roads were in very bad order; that upon examining the
horses, after they were let loose from the waggon, one of them appeared to be sick, and died in the space of half an
hour, which he supposed was occasioned by the severity of the service, and praying to be allowed 251. the sum at
i which he was appraised.
i Also a petition of Samuel Pritchard, praying to be allowed an equal dividend of the money produced by the sales
of the estate of Lord Dunmore, with the rest of his creditors, towards satisfying the balance of 61/. 2s. 3d. due to
i the petitioner for a tract of land sold him.
Also a petition of John Cox, setting forth, that in the month of February, 1773, Mr John Lightfoot, and
others, came to the house of the petitioner, and pressed his horse, in order to apprehend Benjamin Cook, Shem
\Cpoh, Joseph Cook, and Benjamin Woodward, for counterfeiting the paper currency of this country, which horse
was upwards of a week in the service,, and never returned tp the petitioner, but died, as he has been informed, from
usage ,he receive^ and praying to be a(I lowed a, reason able satisfaction for the said horse.
16
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to empower the Governour to issue com-
missions without the seal of the Commonwealth, and to confirm those already issued; and he presented the1 same
at the bar, and then he withdrew.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To revive the late laws re¬
lating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a se
cond time.
The order of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, October 17, 1776.
Ordered, That there be a call of the House to morrow morning, at 10 o'clock, and that the serjeant at arms dc
immediately summon the absent members to attend their duty in this House.
Ordered, That the several venire-men and witnesses attending for the trial of criminals, be discharged, having
first entered their attendance with the clerk of the Committee of Publick Claims.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee to whom the bill For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct
counties, was committed, reported, that the committee had gone through the bill, and made several amendments
thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read,, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Poythress, a member for the county of Prince .George, informed the House, that frequent fits of the gout,
and other infirmities, had rendered him unable to attend the duties of his appointment with the diligence and con¬
stancy which the present crisis requires, and he is apprehensive that injury from thence may arise to the publick in
general, and his constituents in particular; wherefore he moved, that his seat in the House might be declared vacant,
and a warrant issue for the election of a delegate to serve in his room.
Ordered, That a warrant be issued for the election of a delegate to serve in this House in the room of the said
Mr. Poythress, who is .discharged from the trust, on his request, for the reasons aforesaid.
A petition of Joseph Mitchell was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he is possessed of about
1000 acres of land in West Augusta, through which runs a ridge of rocks found to be strongly impregnated with
saltpetre, and, from experiments which have been made, the quantity appears to be inexhaustible; that gunpowder
of the best quality has been made from the saltpetre, which will appear from several certificates; that at the foot of
the rocks there runs a constant stream of water, sufficient for powder mills; that a desire of entering into the military
service prevents his prosecuting the work, and therefore offering the said land to the publick for such consideration as
they shall judge reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
An engrossed bill, To repeal so much of an ordinance as fixes the stations of the troops raised for the de¬
fence of the frontiers, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Treasurer do carry the same to the Senate for their concur¬
rence.
An engrossed bill, To continue the powers given to the Governor and Council by an ordinance of the last
Convention, which will shortly expire, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass; and that the title be, An act for the farther continuance of certain powers
given to the Governour and Council by an ordinance of the last Convention.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the said bill to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill, For the revision of the laws, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Jefferson do carry the same to the Senate for their concur¬
rence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House for paying the sum of 10/. to Mary
Webley, for her immediate relief, and the sum of 251. to William Wilson, as a recompense for the wound he re¬
ceived in the country's service; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
An engrossed bill, For dividing the county of Pittsylvania into two distinct counties, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Williams do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
17
^ Mr. Jones, from the Committee for Courts of Justice, reported, that the committee had inquired what laws had
expired since the last session, or will expire with the end of this session, or are near expiring, and had come to the
following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where
thyp same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the actof Assembly passed in the year 1769, intituled, Jin act to prevent the exorbitant exactions
of the collectors of the county and parish levies, which expired in the year 1774, ought to be revived and amended.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly which passed in the year 1745, intituled Jin act for the better regulating
and collecting certain officers' fees, and for other purposes therein mentioned, which was continued and amended
by another act passed in the year 1772, which expired the 12th day of Jipril, 1774, ought to be revived and amended.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1762, intituled Jin act for the more effectual keeping
thepublick roads and bridges in repair, which was continued and amended by another act passed in the year 1766,
and was revived and continued by another act passed in the year 1772, which expired the 11th day of April, 1774,
ought to be revived and amended.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in bills pursuant to the said
resolutions.
A bill To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, ivith amendments, was read a second time,
the blanks therein filled up, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To enable tenants in
taille to convey their lands in fee simple; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and
Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and
had made some progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move for leave to
sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A bill For altering and establishing the boundaries of the counties of Stafford and King George, was read a
second time, the blanks therein filled up, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act to repeal so much of an ordinance as fixes
the stations of the troops raised for the protection of the frontiers.
The Senate have also agreed to the bill intituled An act for the farther continuance of certain powers given
to the Governour and Council by an ordinance of the last Convention; and he delivered the same at the bar, and
then withdrew.
A petition of John George Woolfolh was presented to the House, and read;, setting forth, that he entered with
a company of volunteers from the county of Caroline, and marched to Williamsburg, for the defence of the country,
and being taken sick in the said service, he was obliged to employ a doctor, whose charge amounted to 2l. 18s. 6d.
which he hopes may be repaid him.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the mat¬
ter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country,
and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee
had, according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following reso¬
lution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was
again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That Messrs. Warley and Lesene, officers from South Carolina, be permitted to recruit soldiers in
this country, not exceeding fifty, provided they do not enlist any of the regulars, marines, or minute-men, already-
engaged here; and that it be recommended to the several county committees to afford them all possible assistance.
Resolved, That the Governour be desired to forward all the lead now.at the lead mines, and which can be spared
from the service of this country, to the city of Philadelphia, for the use of the continent; and that he will be pleased
to lay before this House the present state of the lead mines, with the number of hands employed in working the same.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther conside¬
ration the state of the country. *
Ordered, That Mr. Tabb have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday fortnight.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to inspect the journals of the Senate, and to report to the House what
has been done with the resolution sent to them giving instructions to the delegates for this State in General Congress
to use their endeavours to procure a part of the continental fleet to be stationed on our coasts for the protection of the
trade of this country; arid that Mr. Bland, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Fitzhugh, Mr. Tabb, and Mr. Jones, be of the said
committee.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the Committee for Courts of Justice be discharged from reporting from the journals of the last
session the several petitions and propositions then depending and undetermined, and that all such petitions and propo¬
sitions be delivered of course by the clerk to the several proper committees to proceed therein.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
IB
FRIDAY, October 18, 1776.
The House was called over, according to the order of the day, and Mr. Charles Pattison, Mr. John Cabell, Mr,
James Edmondson, and Mr. Thomas Johnson, failing to appear, it is ordered that it be determined on this day
se'nnight what farther proceedings shall be had against them for their default.
A petition of Edward Hack Moseley, junior, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that some
time in the month of October last past a negro man slave named Tawley, belonging to the petitioner, was taken in a
tender in Lord Dunmore's service; that the said slave was valued by the Committee of Safety to the sum of 851. and
sent with others to the West Indies in a vessel commanded by Captain John Dixon, which was seized by a British
ship of war, and with the said~slaves made prize of; and praying to be allowed the said sum of 851. for the said slave.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matter
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A memorial of Harrison Randolph, Miles Selden, Garland Carr, Addison Lewis, and Adam Craig, was
presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in firm assurance the vacant clerkships of county courts would,
according to ancient usage, continue to be given to the writers of the longest standing in the secretary's office, they,
after having entered into bond with security, in a large penalty, for their faithful conduct, became writers therein:
that during their necessary attendance on duty, in the city of Williamsburg, they could not avoid, with the greatest
economy, contracting debts to a considerable amount for their support and maintenance; that no emolument or per¬
quisites-accrued to them, nor did they entertain any other expectation of reward than that of succeeding to vacancies,
according to their seniority; that the right of appointment to vacant clerkships being under the present government
transferred from the secretary to the courts themselves, they have no prospect of reward, for several years labour, but
through the interposition of this House; that they are more particularly anxious upon this subject, as their attendance
at the office, and endeavours to qualify themselves as clerks, have taken up so much of their time as scarcely to leave
an opportunity of applying to any other business; and praying that this House will afford them such relief as shall be
thought reasonable.
Ordered, That the said memorial be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
An engrossed bill, For altering and establishing the boundaries of the counties of Stafford and King George,
was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Carter do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson and Mr. Prentis have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Mon¬
day, and Mr. Wilkinson until Thursday next.
Ordered, That the third reading of the bill For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct counties be
put off till Thursday next.
The House, according to the order of the day, Yesolved itself into a committee on the bill To revive the late laws
relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed
the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the
said bill, and had made some progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move
for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday next again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill Declaring slaves to be personal
estate; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing a state of the lead mines, and other
papers; which were read, and ordered to be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To enable tenants in
taille to convey their lands in fee simple; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and
Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill' had
gone through the same, and made several amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bill For the naturalization of foreigners, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, October 19, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from Benjamin Harrison of
Brandon, Esquire, resigning the office of a Privy Counsellor; which being read,
Resolved, That this House will on Wednesday next proceed by ballot to the appointment of a member of the
Privy Council in the room of the said Benjamin Harrison, Esquire.
19
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A petition of John Gabriel Jones, and George Rodgers Clarke, was presented to the House, and read; setting
forth, the distressed and defenceless situation of the inhabitants of Kentucky,and praying that some forces may be
sent to their relief and protection.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Privileges and Elections, reported, that the committee had, according to
order, had under their consideration the petition of John Tayloe Corbin, and the resolution thereupon to them re¬
committed, and also the petition of Charles Henley, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That so much of the petition of John Tayloe Corbin, as prays to be released from his confinement, is
reasonable, and that he be discharged, upon giving bond and sufficient security, in the sum of ten thousand pounds,
not to give intelligence to, or in any manner, aid or assist the enemy.
Resolved, That so much of the petition of the said Charles Henley as prays he may be discharged from confine¬
ment, is reasonable.
Ordered, That the third reading of the bill To enable tenants in taille to convey their lands in fee simple, be
put off until Tuesday next.
A bill Declaring slaves to be personal estate, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a com¬
mittee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Wednesday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to. •
Resolved, That the six battalions of infantry to be raised for the Continental service should consist of ten compa¬
nies each, and each company of sixty-eight men rank and file, with their proper officers.
Resolved, That each of the said battalions be commanded by a colonel, a lieutenant-colonel, major, ten captains,
twenty lieutenants, ten ensigns, and forty serjeants.
Resolved, That the several field officers be appointed by the joint ballot of both Houses.
Resolved, That the captains and subaltern officers be appointed by the committees of the several counties and
districts where the men are to be raised.
Resolved, That in those counties where committees are not elected, pursuant to the directions of the ordinance,
provision ought to be made for the speedy election of such committees.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the committee formerly appointed to prepare* and bring in a bill For raising the said six bat¬
talions of infantry, do receive a clause, or clauses, pursuant to the first four of the said resolutions; and that Mr.
Treasurer, Mr. Jones, Mr. Starke, Mr. Smith, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Lee, do prepare
and bring in a bill pursuant to the last resolution, and that they receive a clause', or clauses, for dissolving and discon¬
tinuing the several committees of inspection and observation throughout this country, so soon as they shall have elected
the captains and subaltern officers for the said six new battalions
Ordered, That the several claims of Samuel Todd, John Lindsay, and Paul Micou, together with the account
of sales of the vessels, slaves, and. appurtenances taken by Capt. Taylor, and directed to be sold by a resolution of the
last Convention* be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims, and that they make a reasonable allowance to the
commissioners for their trouble.
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next, again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther
consideration the state of the country.
The order of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bill For the naturalization of
foreigners, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Wednesday next.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, October 21, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr. Joseph Cabell, Mr. Coleman, Mr. Jones, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Wilson M. Gary, Mr, Fitz-
hugh, Mr. Dwell, and Mr. Scott, be added to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, and Mr. John Cabell,
Mr. Montague, and Mr. Booker, to the Committee for Courts of Justice.
Mr. Wills, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For vesting certain lots and
streets in the town of Patesfield in trustees, and for other purposes therein mentioned; which was read the first
time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A petition of Robert Wooding was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that sundry inhabitants of
Halifax county have presented a petition to this House, shewing the advantageous situation of the courthouse of the
20
said county, and praying that it may be continued at the place where it now stands, and referring for farther informa¬
tion to the petitioner, who is a representative of the orphan upon whose land the courthouse now stands; that he has
been prevented, by a severe indisposition, from attending this House on the said business; that he has many reasons to
urge in behalf of a much injured county, and much to say on behalf of an orphan who will be greatly prejudiced by a
removal of the courthouse, should the same take place; and praying that the consideration of the said petition may be
put off to some future day, when he may be able to attend. •
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration two petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions there¬
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of sundry inhabitants of the counties of Amherst and Bedford, praying that a ferry
may be established across the Fluvannah river, on the land of Henry Trent, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of Joseph Mitchell, offering to the publick a tract of land in West Augusta, abound¬
ing with rocks strongly impregnated with saltpetre, for a reasonable consideration, be rejected.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the first
of the said resolutions.
Ordered, That Mr. King have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next.
Mr. Richard Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order,
had under their consideration the petition of Jacob Cunes to them referred, and had come to a resolution thereupon;
which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and
ordered to be re-committed to the said committee.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration the resolution to them referred, empowering the Governour, with the advice
of the Council, to purchase salt on the publick account, and had made the following amendmerts thereto; which he
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same, together with the said resolution,
were agreed to.
Line 3d, strike out from the word publick to the word the in the next line, and insert so much of.
Line 4th, after the word country insert they may judge necessary.
Line 13th, strike out from the word admit to the word and in the 15th line.
Ordered, That the said resolution, with the amendments, be fairly transcribed, and that Mr. Treasurer do carry
the same to the Senate for their eoncurrence.
Ordered, That the Commissioners of the "Navy do lay before the House-a state of the navy, together with an ac¬
count of the expense incurred in fitting out and supporting the same to the present time, distinguishing in the said ac¬
count the expense of each vessel, with their opinion what other vessels it may be necessary to fit out for the defence
of the country, together with an estimate of the probable expense attending the same.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to inquire into and report the state of the publick vineyard, under the
direction of Mr Estave; and that Mr. Carter, Mr. Cocke, Mr. Starke, Mr. Wills, and Mr. Richard Cary, be of
the said committee.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to inquire into and report the progress and expense of the several pub¬
lick salt works erected in consequence of the ordinance of the last Convention; and that Mr. Starke, Mr. Bland, the
members for Northumberland, Lancaster, Middlesex, Gloucester, York, Elizabeth City, Accomack, Northamp¬
ton, Nansemond, Mr. Fulgham and Mr. Smith, be of the said committee.
Resolved, That this House will on Wednesday next proceed by ballot to the appointment of a Privy Counsellor
in the room 'of Fielding Lewis, Esq. who hath declined the said appointment.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the county and parish of Amherst, setting forth, that they are aggrieved by
the conduct of the vestry of the said parish, who have settled the tobacco payments of the parish contrary to the ordi¬
nance of convention, and praying that the said vestry may be dissolved, and a new one chosen.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee of Religion; that they inquire into the allegations
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The order of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
A petition of Gabriel Maupin was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he was appointed by the
Committee of Safety to succeed Mr. Finnie, as keeper of military stores in the city of Williamsburg, a trust which
he conceives to be important, and attended with more trouble and.care than may be at first imagined, the business being
so great and urgent as to require his attendance every day, Sundays not excepted; that whilst engaged in this servict
he is obliged to devote his whole attention to it, to the interruption of every other business; and praying to be allovvec
such satisfaction for his services as shall be judged just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to Mr. Prentis, Mr Starke, Mr. Cocke, and the members for Jame.
City and York; that they inquire into the matter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to th<
House.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, October 22, 1776.
A bill For vesting certain lots and streets in the town of Patesfield in trustees, and for other purposes therein
mentioned, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Wills, Mr. Fulgham, and the members
for Surry, Southampton and Nansemond.
Two petitions from the dissenters from the Church.of England in the counties of Jilbemarle, Amherst and Buck- -
ingham, were presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they have never been upon an equal footing with
the good people of this country in respect to religious privileges, having been obliged by law to contribute to the sup¬
port of the established church, while at the same time they were moved from a principle of conscience to support the
ehurch of which they were members; yet, in as much as this was the form of government established when they
became dissenters from the church of England, they submitted to it, for the sake of good order, always willing to
stand up with the foremost in the support of government, and in defence of the just rights and properties of the sub¬
ject; that when it became necessary the form of government should be new-modelled, in consequence of having thrown
off our dependence on the crown and parliament of Great Britain, they flattered themselves that form of government
would secure equal right to the subject; that they cannot disguise their real concern to observe, that many are still
violent for the establishment of the Episcopal church; and praying, that every religious denomination may be put upon
an equal footing.
Also, a petition of the freeholders and other inhabitants of the parish of North Farnham, in the county of Rich¬
mond, setting forth, that they have been much aggrieved and oppressed by the vestry of the said parish, and praying
a dissolution thereof.
Also, a petition of the German congregation in the county of Culpeper, setting forth, that they are oppressed
by being obliged to pay parochial charges, as well as to support their own church; and praying^ that they may be ex¬
empted from farther payment of parochial charges, other than to support their own church and poor, and that their
ministers may have equal right and privileges with their brethren in Pennsylvania, or the established church minis¬
ters in Virginia, so far as may extend to the members of their church only.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Religion; that they inquire into the alle¬
gations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country,
and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee
had, according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolu¬
tions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the' clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That this country ought to accent of the proposal made by the General Congress for putting under
their direction the forts'at the mouths of Wheeling and the Great Kanawah, and the fort at Pittsburg.
Resolved,'That the garrisons now in the said forts ought, according to the proposition of the General Congress,
to be taken into continental pay, augmented to a complete battalion, and be considered as one of the six formerly
voted to be raised.
Resolved, That instructions be given to our delegates in Congress to propose to Congress that the prisoners of -
war now in possession of this Commonwealth shall be delivered over to Congress, to be by them kept or disposed of
as continental prisoners, at the continental expense.
Ordered, That the committee formerly appointed to bring in a bill For raising six battalions of infantry on
the continental establishment, do receive a clause, or clauses, pursuant to the second of the said resolutions, and that
Mr. Treasurer do carry the first and third of the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That the Governour be desired to transmit to our delegates in General Congress an account of the ex¬
penses incurred in the support and maintenance of the several prisoners of war in this Country, in order to obtain a
satisfaction for the same of the commander of the British forces in America.
A petition of Sarah Millyard and Jane Dixon, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they
were late inhabitants of the town of Norfolk, and suffered greatly by the destruction thereof, having had all their
household furniture destroyed, and the dwelling house of the petitioner Jane Dixon utterly consumed; that being of
an advanced age, she is rendered utterly incapable of getting a livelihood; that the petitioner Sarah Millyard having
been left by her husband, who has entered into the naval service of the country, with four small children, is also
reduced to great distress; and praying the relief of this House.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the mat¬
ter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to.the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt be added to the committee to whom the petition of Gabriel Maupin was referred,
and Mr. Prentis to the committee to inquire into and report the state of the public vineyard.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bill For the naturalization of
foreigners, and on the bill To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments, being
read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
22
Ordered, That Mr. Speed be added to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration a petition and memorial to them referred, and had come to the following reso¬
lutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the Clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Fincastle, praying a division of the said
county, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the memorial of Wilson Miles Cary, Esq. praying to be allowed satisfaction for a boat and two
negro slaves perfidiously seized by lord Dunmore out of his lordship's estate, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the said Wilson Miles Cary ought to. receive an indemnity out of such effects of lord Dunmon
as are within this Commonwealth, to the amount of 240/. in proportion with his other creditors.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the first
of the said resolutions, and that Mr. Braxton do carry the two last to the Senate for their concurrence.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, October 23, 1776.
Mr. Jones, from the Committee for Courts of Justice, reported, that the committee had, according to order, far¬
ther inquired what laws had expired since the last session, or will expire with the end of this session, or are near
expiring, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1769, intituled Jin act to make provision for the sup¬
port and maintenance of ideots, lunaticks, and other persons of unsound minds, which will expire at the end of
this present session of Assembly, ought to be farther continued.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1760, intituled Jin act for regulating the practice oj
attornies, which was continued by one other act passed in the year 1766, and was farther continued by another act
passed in the year 1769, which will expire at the end of this present session of Assembly, ought to be farther con¬
tinued.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1757, intituled Jin act for the better regulating and
disciplining the militia, which was continued and amended by two other acts passed in the years 1762 and 1766,
and was farther continued by an act passed in the year 1771, which expired the 20th day of July, 1773, ought not to
be revived.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1762, intituled Jin act for the inspection of pork, beef,
flour, tar, pitch, and turpentine, which was amended by another act passed in the year 1772, and will expire at
the end of this present session of Assembly, ought to be revived and amended.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1757, intituled Jin act for reducing the several acts oj
Jlssembly for making provision against invasions and insurrections into one act, which was continued by three
other acts passed in the years 1762, 1766, and 1769, and was farther continued by an act passed in the year 1772, and
which expired the 8th day of June, 1775, ought to be revived and amended.
Resolved, That the act of Assembly passed in the year 1764, intituled An act for increasing the reward for
killing wolves within certain counties, to be paid by the respective counties wherein the services shall be performed,
which was continued by an act passed in the year i766, except as to the counties of Buckingham, Fauquier, and
Loudoun, and was continued and amended by one other act passed in the year 1769, and was farther continued and
amended by another act passed in the year 1772, except as to the county of Botetourt, and which will expire at the
end of this present session of Assembly, ought to be farther continued.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the first,
fourth, fifth and sixth of the said resolutions, and that the Committee for Courts of Justice do prepare and brinf in a
bill pursuant to the second resolution.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Cabell.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill, intituled An act for dividing the county of Pittsylvania
into two distinct counties', and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A petition of John Calvert was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he was employed by the
Committee of Safety to see to the building of the galley called the Norfolk's Revenge, and was by them appointed to
the command of her; that he has at different times received of the Treasurer upwards of one thousand pounds for carry¬
ing on the said business, for the paying away of which he has received no fee or reward; that he was obliged to carry
the money about him for enlisting men, and paying seamens wages, and when employed in this business, to wit, oil
the 14th instant,^ he was robbed of 38/. part of the money aforesaid, and praying to be reimbursed the said loss.
Ordered, 1 hat the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matter
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
23
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do concur with the House of Delegates in their resolution for electing two Privy
Counsellors in the room of Benjamin Harrison of Brandon, and Fielding Lewis, Esquires, and will assist them by
joint ballot, as the Constitution directs.
The House, according to the order of the day, proceeded by ballot to the appointment of two Privy Counsellors
in the room of Benjamin Harrison of Brandon, and Fielding Lewis, Esquires, and the members having prepared
tickets for the persons to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Ewell, Mr. Braxton,
and Mr. Fitzhugh, were appointed a committee to meet a committee to be appointed by the Senate, and jointly with
them to examine the ballot boKes, and report to the House upon whom the majority fell.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson do acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
Committee from the Senate in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that the
majority fell upon Nathaniel Harrison of Brandon, and Meriwether Smith, Esquires.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Nathaniel Harrison, and Meriwether Smith, be appointed members of the
Privy Council of this Commonwealth.
An engrossed bill, To enable tenants in taille to convey their lands in fee simple, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be A bill declaring tenants of lands or slaves in taille
to hold the same in fee simple.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from Col. Christian relating to
the Indian expedition, together with several other papers; which were read, and ordered to lie on the table.
> Ordered, That Mr. Curie have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on. the
bills For the naturalization of foreigners, To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with
amendments, and on the bill Declaring slaves to be personal estate, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow,
i Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, October 24, 1776.
i Mr. Lee, from the Committee'of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had agreed t6 the following report and resolutions thereupon;
^which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and
agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of John Cox, to be allowed for a horse impressed by Archibald Gordon, sheriff of
jPittsylvania county, and John Lightfoot, for the use of the guards who attended them in apprehending Benjamin
Pook and others, criminals from the said county, charged with counterfeiting the paper currency of Virginia, and
died in consequence of the severe usage which he suffered in that service, is reasonable, and that the petitioner be al¬
lowed the sum of 61. for.the said horse.
I Resolved, That the petition of John George Woolfolk, who served in Capt. Woodford's company of volunteers
^n the defence of this country, and was taken sick in that service, praying to be re-paid the expense he was at to a
loctor for attendance and medicine, is reasonable, and that the petitioner be allowed the sum of 2/. 185. 6d. to reim¬
burse him that expense.
' Resolved, That the petition of John Craig, to be allowed for a horse said to have died by means of severe usage
'in the country's service, be rejected.
Resolved, That the petition of Samuel Pritchard. praying to be paid out of the sales of such of the effects of ,
Lord Dunmore as are within this Commonwealth the balance due to the said petitioner from the said Dunmore, for
two tracts of land sold him, for the consideration of one hundred pounds, which became due the 3d of August, 1774,
is reasonable, and that the petitioner receive out of such sales the said balance, being 61/. 25. 3d. in proportion with
the other creditors of the said Dunmore.
Resolved, That the petition of Edward Hack Moseley, jun. praying to be allowed for Tawley, bis negro man
slave who was taken in a tender at Hampton in Lord Dunmore's service, and by order of the Committee of Safety
transported to the West Indies, and valued by the said committee to the sum of 85/., is reasonable, and that the peti¬
tioner be allowed the balance of the said 851. which is 74/. 125. 6d. after deducting the expense for transporting the
said slave, which amounts to 10/. 7s. 6d
On consideration of the petition of Samuel Wilson and John Hodges, inspectors at Warwicksqueake Bay ware¬
house, in the county of Isle of Wight, praying to be reimbursed for four hogsheads of tobacco, weighing 3809 neat,
which were stolen out of the said warehouse, two of which said hogsheads were taken in the night of the 19th of
March, 1765, and the others on the 13th of July following, it appears to your committee, from the deposition of
24
Henry Harrison,, that on or about the 19th of March, 1775, the deponent, being at the said warehouse, observed
that it had been broke open, and going down the hill, he saw a hogshead of tobacco lying about the middle of the
descent; that Mr. John Hodges, one of the said inspectors, about eight or nine o clock in the morning of the same
day, took a boat and went in search of persons who had carried off some tobacco from thence, as he u^eratood.
It farther appears to your committee, from the deposition of Thomas Bland, that on or about the 19th of March,
1775, Warwicksqueake Bay warehouse was broke open; that he saw some people belonging to a brig, then lying op.
posite to the said warehouse, carrying tobacco from the shore to the brig; that when they got on board the boat was
let loose, and the deponent took her up, and found therein many bundles of tobacco; that he also saw a tobacco hogs-
head floating in the river, which he supposed had been thrown out of the said brig; that about two hours after, Mr.
John Hodges, together with the deponent, went below Hampton in pursuit of the said brig, which sailed early that
morning, but could not overtake her. . n
It farther appears to your committee, from the deposition of Nelson Davis, that on the 13th oi July, 1775, the
deponent saw at the landing near Warwicksqueake Bay warehouse several bundles of tobacco scattered about, to the
amount, as he supposed, of sixty pounds weight, or thereabouts; that in crossing the river he saw an empty tobacco
hogshead floating, many of the staves of which had been cut asunder, and had evident signs of having been rolled,
which induced him to believe that the same had been stolen out of the said warehouse.
It farther appears to your committee, from a certificate of Thomas Pierce and Arthur Smith, that, in pursuance
of an order of the court of Isle of Wight county, they met some time in July, 1775, and examined the state and con-
dition of Warwicksqueake Bay warehouse, an'd found them in as good order, and as well secured with locks, bars,
&c. as is common for houses of that nature.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioners be allowed for. the said tobacco at the rate
of 22s. 6d. per hundred weight, which amounts to the sum of 42/. Is.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said several resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
. A message from the Senate by Mr. Randolph.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for altering and establishing the bounda¬
ries of the counties of Stafford and King George; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, prepared bills For establishing a ferry over the. Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Trent, in the
county of Amherst, to the land of Nicholas DavlesTm Tire county^of Bedford,— To revive and amend an act in¬
tituled An act for the better regulating and collecting certain officers' fees, and for other purposes therein
mentioned,—To revive and amend an act intituled An act for the more effectual keeping the pub lick roads and
bridges in repair,—To revive and amend an act intituled An act to prevent the exorbitant exactions of the col¬
lectors of the county and parish levies; and he delivered them in at the clerk's table, where they were severally
read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A memorial of the Presbytery of Hanover was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they are
governed by the same sentiments which have inspired the United States of America, and are determined that nothing
in their power and influence shall be wanting to give success to the common cause; that dissenters from the church of
England in this country have ever been desirous to conduct themselves as peaceable members of the civil govern'
ment, for which reason they have hitherto submitted to several ecclesiastick burthens and restrictions, that are incon-
sistent with equal liberty, but that now, when the many and grievous oppressions of our mother country have laid this
continent under the necessity of casting off the yoke of tyranny, and of forming independent.governments, upon equi¬
table and liberal foundations, they flatter themselves they shall be freed from all the encumbrances which a spirit of
domination, prejudice, or bigotry, hath interwoven with most other political systems; that they are more strongly en¬
couraged to expect this, by the declaration of rights, so universally applauded, for the dignity, firmness, and precision,
with which it delineates and asserts the privileges of society and the prerogatives of human nature, and which they
embrace as the Magna Charta of the Commonwealth, which can never be violated without endangering the grand
superstructure it was destined to support: Therefore they rely upon this declaration, as well as the justice of the Le¬
gislature, to secure to them the free exercise of religion, according to the dictates of their consciences; and that they
should fall short in their duty to themselves, and to the many and numerous congregations under their care, were they
upon this occasion to neglect laying before the House a state of the religious grievances under which they have hitherto
laboured, that they no longer may be continued in the present form of government; that it is well known that in the
frontier counties, which are justly supposed to contain a fifth part of the inhabitants of Virginia, the dissenters have
borne.the heavy burthens of purchasing glebes and supporting the established clergy, where there are very few 'Epis¬
copalians either to assist in bearing the expense or to reap the advantage; and that throughout the other parts of the
country there are also many thousands of zealous friends and defenders of the State, who, besides the invidious and
disadvantageous restrictions to which they have been subjected annually, pay large taxes to support an establishment
irom which their consciences and principles oblige them to dissent, all which are so many violations of their natural
rights, and in their consequences a restraint upon freedom of inquiry and private judgment. In this enlightened age>
and in a land where all are united in the most strenuous efforts to be free, they hope and expect that their representa¬
tives ^ill cheerfully concur in removing every species of religious as well as civil bondage. That every argument for
civil liberty gains additional strength when applied to liberty in the concerns of religion, and that there is no argument
25
in favour of establishing the Christian religion but what may be pleaded for establishing the tenets of Mahomet by
tfcose who believe the 4Ueoran; or, if this be not true, it is at least impossible for the magistrate to adjudge the right
of preference, among the various sects which profess the Christian faith, without erecting a chair of infallibility, which
would lead us back to the Church of Rome. That they beg leave farther to represent, that religious establishments
pre,highly injurious to the temporal interests of any community, without insisting upon the ambition and the arbitrary
practices of those who are favoured by government, or the intriguing seditious spirit which is commonly excited by
this, as well as every other kind of oppression, such establishments greatly retard population, and consequently the
progress of arts, sciences, and manufactures; witness the rapid growth and improvements of the northern provinces,
compared with this. That no one can deny the more early settlement, and the-many superiour advantages of our
country, would have invited multitudes of artificers, mechanicks, and other useful members of society, to fix their
habitation among us, who have either remained in the place of their nativity, or preferred worse civil government, and
a more barren soil, where they might enjoy the rights of conscience more fully than they had a prospect of doing in
this; from which they infer, that Virginia might now have been the capital of America, and a match for the British
arms, without depending upon others for the necessaries of war, had it not been prevented by her religious establish¬
ment. Neither can it be made appear that the Gospel needs any such civil aid; they rather conceive, that when our
blessed Saviour declares his Kingdom is not of this world, he renounces all dependence upon State power, and as his
weapons are spiritual, and were only designed to have influence upon the judgment and heart of man, they are per¬
suaded that if mankind were left in the quiet possession of their unalienable religious privileges, Christianity, as in the
days of the apostles, would continue to prevail and flourish in the greatest purity by its own native excellence, and
under the all?disposing providence of God. That they would also humbly represent, that the only proper objects of
civil government are the happiness and protection of men in the present state of existence, the security of the life,
liberty, and property of the citizens, and to restrain the vicious and encourage the virtuous by wholesome laws, equally
extending to every individual; but that the duty they owe their Creator, and the manner of discharging it, can only
be directed by reason and conviction, and is no where cognizable but at the tribunal of the universal judge, and that
therefore they ask no ecclesiastical establishments for themselves, neither can they approve of them when granted to
others, and earnestly entreating that all laws now in force in this Commonwealth which countenance religious domi¬
nations may be speedily repealed, that all and every religious sect may be protected in the full exercise of their several
modes of worship, and exempted from the payment of all taxes for the support of any church whatever, farther than
what may be agreeable to their own private choice, or voluntary obligation.
Ordered, That the said memorial be referred to the Committee of Religion; that they inquire into the allegations
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Jones, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Simms, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Read, be added to the committee
appointed to prepare and bring in a bill For raising six regiments of infantry on the continental establishment.
A petition of Lewis Burwell the younger, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that his ferry-
house in the county of James City was some time since taken and applied by the commanding officer of the Virginia
troops for the purpose of a guard house; that although he would not have refused his assent, yet the said house was ap¬
propriated to the purpose aforesaid without any application to him, at a time when its annual rent amounted to sixty-
five pounds; that by the negligence of the soldiers who were stationed there, the said ferry-house was burnt to the
ground, and sundry out-houses, and the garden, totally destroyed, whereby he is disabled from maintaining a ferry
which had hitherto been valuable, and has lost houses which cannot be re-built without a heavy expense; and praying
to be allowed a reasonable satisfaction for the damage he has sustained.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the matter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of John Goodrich, jun. was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that there is a considera¬
ble balance still due to John Goodrich and company, for goods sold and delivered to the country in the year 1775, for
which goods the company are indebted, and the petitioner, as a partner and chief agent, is answerable, and at present
utterly unable to discharge, for want of the balance due to him from the country. That the objection formerly made
to the payment of this balance being removed, he prays the House will be pleased to direct an inquiry into the account
of the goods furnished by John Goodrich and company, and the balance to he discharged.
That he begs leave also to remind the House of a resolution passed last December, by which he was deemed inimical
to the rights and liberties of his country, disqualified from trading, and held up as a person unworthy the common
rights of humanity, by which he is deprived of the liberty of following his occupation, and providing for a distressed
wife and children, and of yielding any assistance to his aged and wretched parents, whose present misfortunes origi¬
nated from an earnest desire to serve and assist the country in the article of gunpowder. That, with a heart deeply
affected with his own and his parents' sufferings, he most unfeignedly supplicates this House to extend its mercy to
him, remove the restriction he is under, and permit him to become an useful and active member of society, and endea¬
vour to provide for his distressed family and parents.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Privileges and Elections; that they inquire into
the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding upon the petition
of sundry inhabitants of the county of Fincastle, and that the same be referred to the Committee upon the State of
the Country.
26
Ordered, That the engrossed and enrolled bills be written in a fair round hand.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding on the petition of
Harrison Randolph, Miles Selden, Garland Carr, Addison Lewis, and Jldam Craig; and that the petitioners have
leave to withdraw the same.
The House, according to the order of. the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To revive the late laws
relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed
the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the
said bill, and had made some progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move
for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The several orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to
be personal estate, and For the naturalization of foreigners, for the third reading of the bill For dividing the
county of Fincastle into two distinct counties, and for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of
the country, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Wednesday next.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker, _ „
The Senate have agreed to the bill For the revision of the laws, with amendments, to which
they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Wills, from the committee to whom the bill For vesting certain lots and streets in the town of Patesfield
in trustees, and for. other purposes therein mentioned, was committed, reported, that the committee had examined
the allegations of the bill, and found them to be true, and had directed him to report the same, without any amend¬
ment; and he delivered the bill in at the clerk's table.
Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed, and read a third time.
A representation from the committee of West Augusta was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that
sundry persons in office in West Augusta had set on foot a scheme for having the country beyond the Allegheny
mountains laid off in a new government, and had drawn up a memorial for that purpose, to be approved by the peo¬
ple, and presented to the General Congress, and another scheme to colonize themselves by their own authority, which
the memorialists conceive will prove injurious to this country, and to have proceeded from the want of regular govern¬
ment and the administration of justice in the said extensive district, and praying the same may be laid off into four
distinct counties.
Ordered, That the said memorial be referred to the Committee on the State of the Country.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
FRIDAY, October 25, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the President of the General Congress, enclosing several resolu¬
tions respecting a loan office to be established in this State, and a resolution relating to the troops to be raised on the
continental establishment; which being read,
Ordered, That the said letter, and the resolutions respecting the loan office, be referred to the Committee
upon the State of the Country, and that the resolution relating to the troops to be raised, be referred to the committee
appointed to prepare and bring in a bill For raising six battalions of infantry on the continental establishment.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had un¬
der their consideration the petition of Thomas Ritson, to them referred, praying to be allowed for a cargo of salt im¬
ported by him and destroyed by the enemy, and had come to. the following resolution thereupon; which he read in
his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition be rejected.
A message from the Senate by Mr.. Elzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House, empowering the Governour and Council
to purchase salt on account of the publick; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Two petitions of the dissenters from the church of England were presented to the House, and read; setting
forth, thatThey are exposed to great hardships in being obliged to contribute to the support of the established church,
contrary to the dictates of their conscience, and praying that the ecclesiastical establishment may be suspended or laid
aside.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Religion; that they inquire into the alle¬
gations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That the several petitions and propositions depending and undetermined before the Assembly in the
month of May, 1775, be delivered by the clerk to the several committees before whom the same were depending
V
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration the petition of Griffin Garland and Charles Barber, to them referred, and
had agreed upon the following report and resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Your committee find, that on a suggestion by the petitioner, Charles Barber, that there were certain vacant
lands adjoining the lands of Charles Career, Esq. in the county of Richmond, a warrant issued on the 9th of Novem¬
ber, 1775, from the proprietary land office, directed to the other petitioner, Griffin Garland, and empowered him
to survey the said lands; that on the 14th of January, 1776, the said Griffin Garland advertised, that he should
proceed on the said survey on the 24th of the said month; that on the 23d day of the said month, a warrant was issued
by London Carter, Esq. one of the justices of the peace for the said county, directed to the sheriff thereof, reciting,
that complaint had been made to him by the said Charles Carter, Esq. that the said petitioners intended on the next
day to enter on the lands of the said Charles Carter, to survey the same without his consent, and commanding the
said sheriff to go on the lands of the said Charles Carter, and to apprehend and bring before him the said petitioners,
or any others who should be found thereon and refuse to depart; that on the said 24th day of January, the sheriff, by
virtue of the said warrant, arrested the said petitioners, and carried them before the said London Carter, Esq. who,
on their refusing to give, security for keeping the peace and appearance at the next court, committed them to the
custody of the jailor of the said county; that the petitioners have attended several courts since, but there being few
qualified magistrates, and several of those connected with the said London Carter, Esq. and therefore declining to
sit on the said complaint, the petitioners have never yet been able to procure a hearing, and still remain in custody of
the jailor.
Resolved, That the matter of the said petition is cognizable before and remediable in the courts of common law,
and that the petitioners should be left to take their remedy, according to the regular course of law.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill For raising six
troops of infantry on the continental establishment; that they receive d clause, or clauses, for regimenting and
engaging in the continental service, sq many of the marine officers and privates in the service of this commonwealth
as are willing, and making the same part of one of the said six battalions.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petition of John Calvert, to them referred, praying to be allowed the sum of 38/. which was
Stolen out of his pocket, being part of the money received by him at sundry times for the purpose of purchasing mate¬
rials for the galley called the Norfolk's Revenge, enlisting seamen, and paying their wages, and that they had come
to the following resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table,
where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
- Resolved, That the said petition be rejected.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For dissolving the several vestries in this country; and that Mr.
Starke and Mr. Henry, do prepare and bring in the same. «
A bill For establishing a ferry over the Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Tr.ent, in the county of
Amherst, to the land of Nicholas Davies, in the county of Bedford; also, a bill To revive and amend An act for
the more effectual keeping of the publick roads and bridges in repair; also, a bill To revive and amend an act
intituled An act to prevent the exorbitant exactions of the collectors of the county and parish levies; also, a bill
To revive and amend an act intituled An act for the better regulating and collecting certain officers' fees, and
for other purposes therein mentioned; were severally read a second time, and ordered to be committed to the Com¬
mittee of Propositions and Grievances.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To establish the places of holding courts in the counties of
Pittsylvania and Henry; and that Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Williams, Mr. Bullitt and Mr. Terry, do prepare and bring
in the same. . t
An engrossed bill To vest certain lots and streets in the town of Patesfield, and for other purposes therein
mentioned, was read a third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Wills do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Jefferson reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the Governour and Council be desired to take such measures for the preservation or disposition
of the horses and provisions mentioned in the letters of Mr. Thomas Madison, as from present circumstances or fu¬
ture events shall appear to be most proper and conducive to the interest of the country.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the Governour and Council that they give instructions to the commanding
officer of the army destined against the Cherokees, to take such steps at the end of the campaign for the future safety
and protection of the south-western frontier of this State, as shall appear to them to be necessary and proper.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
28
On a motion made, . , e
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself mto a committee upon the state of the country.
Ordered, That Mr. Wilson Miles Gary have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Mondax
next* •
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per
sonal estate,—For the naturalization of foreigners,—For reviving the late laws relating to the inspection of to
bacco, with amendmentsand for the House to proceed against the several members who failed to appear when th<
House was called over on the 18th instant, being read, .
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
The House proceeded to take under their consideration the amendments made by the Senate to the bill intituled
An actfor'the revision of the laws; and the said amendments were read, and are as follows:
Line 11th, between the words of and persons leave out the word three, and insert five.
12th, between the words houses and who, insert three of whom to be a quorum.
15th, between the words die and or, insert refuse to act.
16th, leave out from the word members to the word to in the 17th line.
22d, at the end of the clause add these words, and also to send to any of the United American States for tht
system of laws in force there, if thought necessary.
The first, second, third, and fourth amendments, being severally read a second'time, and the question put there¬
on, were agreed to by the House.
The fifth amendment being also read a second time, was, on the question put, disagreed to by the House.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate to inform them that this House have agreed to the first four of the
amendments proposed by them, to the bill intituled An act for the revision of the laws, and have disagreed to the
fifth amendment, and to desire they will pass the bill with the amendments agreed to; and that Mr. Jefferson do carry
the said message.
The order of the day, for the third .reading of the bill For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct
counties, was read and discharged, and the said bill directed to be read in the usual course of proceedings.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, October 26, 1776.
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, presented, according to order, a bill For di¬
viding the county of Fincastle into two distinct counties, also a bill For farther continuing the act intituled An
act to make provision for the support and maintenance of ideots, lunaticks, and other persons of unsound minds,
also a bill To revive and amend an act intituled An act for the inspection of pork, beef, flour, tar, pitch, and
turpentine; which were severally read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Jefferson, ffom the committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration two petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions there¬
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read,
and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of David Brandon is reasonable, and that a ferry ought to be established from the
land of the said David Brandon, on the south side of Dan river, in Halifax county, over the said river, to the land
of John Lawson, on the opposite side.
Resolved, That the petition of sundry inhabitants of Halifax county is reasonable, and that a ferry ought to be
established over the river Dan, from the land oiJohn Boyd, on the south side of the said river, in the said county of
Halifax, to the land of Patrick Boyd, on the opposite side.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill For establishing a ferry over
the Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Trent, in the county of Amherst, to the land of Nicholas Davies,i»
the county of Bedford, is committed, do receive a clause, or clauses, pursuant to the said resolutions.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke, Mr. Judkins, and Mr. Thoroughgood, have leave to be absent from the service of
this House until Monday se'nnight, and Mr. Riddick until Thursday next.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do not insist on the last amendment made by them to the bill intituled An act for
the revision of the laws, to which the House have disagreed, and have passed the same with the amendments agreed
to; and then he withdrew.
Mr. Prentis, from the committee to whom the petition of Gabriel Maupin was referred, reported, that the com*
mittee had, according to order, had the same under their consideration, and had come to the following resolution
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice
read, and agreed to. °
29
Resolved, That the said Gabriel Maupin be allowed the sum of 501. for receiving into and delivering out of the
th® milltary stores belonging to this State, and for his care of the same from the 30th of October. 1775, to
the 30th of October, 1776. '
Ordered, That Mr. Prentis do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
• r* J9tfe8\ fr?™ Com™ittee for Courts of Justice, presented, according to order, a bill For farther continu¬
ing the act intituled Jin act for regulating the practice of attornies; which was read the first time, and ordered
'to be read a second time.
• ^.ar^e> fr°m Committee of Religion, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petition of the vestry of the parish of Botetourt, presented to the last Assembly, and had
come to the following resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerks
table, wher&the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that a bill ought to be brought in to enable the said vestry to
execute their agreements in the said petition mentioned.
Ordered, That the Committee for Religion do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the said resolution.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To increase the reward for apprehending horsestealers, and
for other purposes therein mentioned; and that Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Terry, and Mr. Ewell, do prepare and bring in
"the same.
^ Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To amend the act intituled Jin act for better securing the pay¬
ment of levies and restraint of vagrants, and for making provision for the poor; and that Mr. Bullitt, Mr.
Terry, and Mr. Ewell, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That a Committee of Trade be appointed, of the following persons: Mr. Gray, Mr. Jicrill, Mr. Syme,
| Mr. Tabb, Mr. Banister, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Lyne, Mr. King, Mr. Curie, Mr. Nathaniel L Savage, Mr. Rich-
S. Taylor, Mr. Thornton, Mr. Jlnderson, Mr. Penn, Mr. Davenport, Mr. Gordon* Mr. Muse, Mr. Faulcon,
"Mr. Pickett, Mr. Lockhart, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Jldams.
Ordered, That Mr. John Beckley be appointed clerk to the said committee.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, on the bills
Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For the naturalization of foreigners,—For reviving the late laws rela¬
ting to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments,—and for the House to proceed against the several members
ivho failed to appear when the House was called over on the 18th instant, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off until Monday next.
A memorial of John Blair and Edmund Randolph, Esquires, was presented to the House, and read; setting
brth, that in- obedience to an order of the last Convention, they proceeded to rent out the lands and to sell at publick
luction the slaves and personal estate of lord Dunmore, at and in the neighbourhood of the city of Williamsburg;
fuihat they were unable, for the want of time, to take an inventory of the same, as the Convention was daily expected
tltiliO rise, and the sale be deprived of many purchasers; that they caused it to be proclaimed in publick, that the things
murchased should remain in the palace till the end of the sale, as well that they might be enabled to receive all sums
ch,tnder five pounds, for which no credit was to be allowed, as to get bonds for those above five pounds, for which six
nonths credit was allowed; that this injunction being in some instances relaxed, where persons were obliged to leave
ccwown, was in other instances disregarded, whereby they failed to get the bonds and receive the money that ought to
idsliiave been paid; that they have rented Porto Bello to doctor James Carter for twenty pounds ti\\ Christmas 1777;
flKihat they rented the Farm to Samuel Tinson for seven pounds till Christmas 1177, but took no bonds because dis-
ress might be had; that the sales in the city of Williamsburg amounted to two thousand six hundred and seven
(pounds sixteen shillings and one penny farthing; that credit was allowed for two thousand four hundred and ninety-six
gtbtiounds thirteen shillings and one penny three farthings; that they have taken security for seventeen hundred and
leven pounds five shillings, and also received one hundred and sixty-five pounds thirteen shillings and seven pence,
^including a discount of five per centum for prompt payment, which was allowed in some cases; that the sums for
Lyhich no credit was allowed, amounted to one hundred and nine pounds nine shillings, for seventy-five pounds eleven
hillings and three pence of which they have received payment; that some of lord Dunmore's estate in the city of
fafPilliamsburg remains undisposed of, but for farther information relative thereto they refer to the books and papers
[wjeturned by them to the House.
Ordered, That the said memorial, together with the said several books and papers, be referred to the Committee
Publick Claims; that they examine and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday se'nnight proceed by ballot to the appointment of persons to revise
he laws, and that Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A petition of Alexander Hanewinkel was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that being regularly
i^ed to the business of making heckles, wool combs, tow, wool and cotton cards, wire-making, &c. and being well
Acquainted with the dressing flax and hemp, he has attempted to prosecute these branches, but by reason of his want
*¥ stock, and the excessive high wages of workmen in erecting the machinery and making the utensils, will he obliged
.<0 lay aside his design, or at least to carry it on in so small a way as to be but little useful to the publick in general;
^hat he has, in conjunction with John Jltkinson, of the town of Fredericksburg, erected a hemp mill and hecklery,.
Avhich will undoubtedly reduce the exorbitant price of linen in this country, but that the work will employ a number
Af spinners, weavers, and rope-makers, and be attended with a considerable expense; and praying that the publick
8
«su
will grant him such assistance as will enable him to carry into execution his designs aforesaid, being ready and wi].
ling to give indisputable security for any money that may be advanced him.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, October 28, 1776.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill Declaring-what shall be treason; and that Mr. Bullitt, Mr,
Griffin, Mr. Lee, Mr. Curie, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Jefferson, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That the resolutions of the General Congress on the subject of treason, be referred to the said committee,
Ordered, That Mr. Edmondson be excused for not appearing at the call of the House on the 18th instant.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to issue a warrant for the election of a delegate for the county of Princi
George, in the room of Richard Bland, Esq. deceased,
A petition of John Crawley was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that early in the last summer
several soldiers were stationed at his house in the county of Northumberland; that they took possession of his dwel,
ling house and out-houses, by which his family were subjected to great inconveniencies, and that from the 7th o;
June, to the 8th of August, himself and family were obliged to shift for shelter, and the business of the family was
totally stopped; and that besides great damage was done to his houses and household furniture, and praying such repa¬
ration as to the House shall seem reasonable.
Also a petition of sundry freeholders Of the county of Orange, setting forth, that the fees of the secretary,
county court clerks, and surveyors, were exorbitant and oppressive, and praying the same may be reduced.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that thej
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Alexander Lithgow was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that at the request of th:
commanding officer of the militia of Prince William, while they were.intrenching at the mouth of Quantico creel;
against the enemy's fleet, in the month of July last, he furnished them with liquors and biscuit to the amount of 2Si
15s. for which he expected to be paid by the publick, but upon application to the Governour, he was let to know th
sanction of this House was necessary before a warrant could be given on the treasury for the same, and praying to I
allowed the said sum of 281. 155
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matte
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of the people commonly called Methodists, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, tk
the dissenters are preparing to lay a petition before this House for abolishing the present establishment of the church,
and as they may, in the opinion of some, also come under the denomination of dissenters, they beg leave to deck1
they are a religious society, in communion with the church of England, and do all in their power to strengthen aci
support the said church; and as they conceive very bad consequences will arise from the abolishing the establishment,
they therefore pray that the church of England, as it ever hath been, may still continue to be. the established church
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Religion; that they inquire into the allegation
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To empower the late sheriff of Prince George to take the eh
Hon of delegates for the said county; and that Mr. Jones and Mr. Starke do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Brent and Mr. Wilson be added to the Committee of Trade, Mr. Garland to the Commit
tees of Propositions and Grievances and for Religion, Mr. Joseph Cabell to the Committee of Publick Claims, ani
Mr. Gordon and Mr. Meriwether to the Committee for Religion.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For regulating the laws of succession, and subjecting lad
to the payment of debts; and that Mr. Griffin, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Henry, Mr. Curie, Mr. Jon&
Mr. Treasurer, and Mr. Fleming, do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Jones, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To empower the late sheriff«/
Prince George to take the election of delegates for the said county; which was read the first time, and ordered to
be read a second time.
Resolved, That in all future elections to be made- by joint ballot of both Houses, it be a standin°" rule that no
ballot be counted, unless the person named therein shall have been previously and openly proposed in the one or tlif
other House, and that before the Houses proceed to ballot, they acquaint each other, by message, with the names o'
the persons proposed in their respective Houses; and that Mr. Jefferson do carry the same to the"Senate for their coo
currence.
A bill To empower the late sheriff of Prince George to take the election of delegates for the said county,
was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A claim of Joseph Selden, for liquors furnished the labourers in the salt works in Elizabeth City county vrs
presented to the House, read, and ordered to be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims.
31
Resolved, That the Commissioners of the Navy be desired immediately to lay before this House a state of the
armed vessels belonging to this Commonwealth.
An engrossed bill, To empower the late sheriff of Prince George to take the election of delegates for the said
county, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Jones do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A petition.of James Suggett was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that his waggon and team were
impressed for the use of the publick, and that one of-the horses, appraised to 20/. died of the hard usage he received
in the said -service, and praying to be allowed for him the sum at which he was appraised.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the mat¬
ter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed,, presented, according to order, a bill For raising six additional
battalions of infantry upon the continental establishment; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read
a second time.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That a copy of the memorial from the committee of West Jlugusta ought to be# transmitted to the
delegates of this State in the General Congress, with instructions to them to protest against the dismembering this State
of that or any other part of its ancient territory, or forming any new government within its limits, should any appli¬
cation be made to Congress for that purpose.
Resolved, That should any persons within the said district, or elsewhere in this State, attempt to form themselves
into a distinct or independent government, without the consent of the Legislature, proper measures ought to be taken
to prevent such attempts.. #
Resolved, That for rendering the benefits of government, and administration of justice, more easy and conve¬
nient to the people within the said district, the limits of the same ought to be ascertained, and the said district laid off
into and established as three distinct counties.
Resolved, That the said memorial be sent to the Senate, for them to proceed to the consideration of so much
thereof as relates to their member, Mr David Rogers.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the first and second of the said resolutions to the Senate for their concur¬
rence, together with the said memorial; and that Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Simms, the members for
gusta, Botetourt, Fincastle, Hampshire, Frederick, and Dunmore, do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the
third resolution.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jlri act to empower the late sheriff of Prince
George to take the election of delegates for the said county; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then with¬
drew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For the naturalization
of foreigners; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that
the committee had gone through the said bill, and made an amendment thereto, which he was ready to report when
the House should be pleased to receive the same.
Ordered, That the said report be received on Monday the 11th of November next.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate,—For reviving the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments,—and the order
of the day for the House to proceed against the several members who failed to appear when the House was called over
on the 18th instant, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
. Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, October 29, 1776.
A bill For raising six additional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment, was read a second
time, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee, and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed-the chair, and Mr. Mams reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made some progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him.
to move for leave to sit again.
32
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for vesting certain lots and streets in the
town of Patesfield in trustees, and for other purposes therein mentioned.
They have also agreed to the resolution of this House, that in all future elections to be made by joint ballot of both
Houses it be a standing rule that no ballot be counted unless the person named therein shall have been previously and
openly named in one or the other House.
Also to the resolution allowing Wilson Miles Cary, Esq. to receive an indemnity out of such effects of lord
Dunmore as are within this Commonwealth, to the amount of 240/. in proportion with his other creditor?.
They also concur with this House in their resolution to ballot for a committee to revive the laws, on Tuesday
se'nnight. And he delivered the said bill and resolutions in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That the Treasurer do lay his accounts before the House.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For ascertaining the boun
dary between the county of Augusta and the district of West Augusta, and for dividing the said district ink
three distinct counties ; and the same was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from the President of the Council
of North Carolinai which were read and ordered to lie on the table.
The Treasurer, according to order, laid his accounts before the House; and they were ordered to lie on the table.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, on the bills
Declaring slaves to be personal estate; For reviving the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with
amendmentsi and the order of the day for the House to proceed against the several members who failed to appear
when the House was called over on the 18th instant, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, October 30, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, informing him that the low state of his health
rendered him unable to attend to the duties of his office, and that his physicians had recommended to him to retire
therefrom into the country till he should recover his strength; which being read,
Resolved, That the Speaker be desired to inform the Governour, that this House, sincerely concerned that his
indisposition should deprive the Commonwealth of the benefit of his services, approve of his proposition to retire from
the duties of his office until his better health shall enable him to return to them.
A petition of Daniel Sandford was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that the troops in the service
of this country, during the time they were stationed at the Great Bridge, did take and make use of sundry articles
the property of the petitioner, and occupied his houses from the 28th day of November, 1775, until the month of
July following, and that he hath received no compensation for the same, and praying to be allowed a reasonable satis¬
faction for the damage he hath sustained, and the rent of his houses.
Also, a petition of John M'Guire and Charles Porter field, setting forth, that they entered into the service of
the United States as cadets in the company of Virginia riflemen, under the command of capt. Morgan, on the 22d day
of June, 1775; that, after being at a very heavy expense in equipping themselves for that service, they were ordered
on the expedition against Canada, under the command of colonel Jlrnold, and that on the 31st of December follow¬
ing, on storming the city of Quebeck, they were, by the fortune of war, made prisoners, where they continued under
a close and painful confinement until the 24th of last month; that their cases were particularly hard, in being deprived,
in consequence of their imprisonment, of preferment in the continental army, which others have received; that they
have been put, in the course of their imprisonment, to great expenses; and praying the House will take their case into
consideration, and, if they shall think it reasonable, reimburse them their necessary expenses.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire into and report the state of the lands formerly appropriated
to the use of the Governour and Secretary in the counties of James City and Northampton; and that Mr. Tazewell,
Mr. Boiling, Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Norvell, Mr. Prentis, Mr. Acrill, Mr. Savage, and Mr. Henry, be of the said
committee.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To empower the eldest Privy Counsellor, in case of the death,
inability, or necessary absence of the Governour and Lieutenant Governour, to perform the executive part of
government; and that'Mr. Bullitt and Mr. Richard Cary do prepare and bring in the same
Ordered, That Mr. Griffin and Mr. Richard Cary be added to the committee appointed to prepare and bring
in a bill For the administration of justice.
33
Ordered> That Mr. Godfrey be added to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, and to the Committee
of Trade.
& Ordered, That a committee be appointed to inquire into and report the state of the several publick manufactories
iaghis country; and that Mr. Lee, Mr. Wills, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Adams, Mr. Thornton, Mr, Page of Spotsylvania,
Jot. Fitzhugh, Mr. Clap ham and Mr. Brent, be of the said committee.
A petition of George Brent and Robert Brent was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that upon the
27th of April last they had each a slave condemned by the county court of Stafford for felony, which were thought
proper objects of mercy, and pardoned by the late Convention; but that as they had attempted to get to the enemy,
they were, ordered to be employed in the lead mines, and the petitioners allowed a reasonable price for their labour;
that the wages allowed them are not equal to the service of the said slaves, and as the danger of their escaping to the
enemy is now happily removed, they .pray the said slaves may be returned to them, with the hire due for them, or
that the country will become the purchasers thereof, at a reasonable valuation.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to-the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they examine
into the matter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To increase the reward for ap-^
prehending horsestealers, and for other purposes therein mentioned; which was read the first time, and ordered
to.be read a second time.
• Ordered, That Mr. Pickett, Mr. Ewell, Mr. Gordon, and Mr. Brent, be added to the committee appointed to
settle and state such of the claims against the publick, on account of the late expedition against the Indians, as then
remained unsettled, and to revise those already settled in West Augusta.
Ordered, That Mr. Scott have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the session,
for the recovery of his health.
A bill For farther continuing the act intituled An act to make*provision for the support and maintenance
of ideots, lunaticks, and other persons of unsound minds, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to
the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
A bill For farther continuing the act intituled An act for regulating the practice of Atiornies, was read a
second time, and committed to the Committee for Courts of Justice.
A bill To revive and amend an act intifuPd An act for the inspection of pork, bejef, flour, tar, pitch and
turpentine, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed, to the Committee of Trade.
A bill For ascertaining the. boundary between the county of Augusta and the district of West Augusta, and
for dividing the said district into three distinct counties, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to
Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Simms. the members for Augusta. Frederick, Dunmore, Hampshire, Botetourt and Fincastle.
A bill For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct counties, was read a second time, and ordered to
be committed to Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Simms, Mr. Bullitt, the members for Fincastle, Augusta and Botetourt.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the said committee, that they receive a clause, or clauses, for laying off Ken¬
tucky into one distinct county.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr, Speaker, ' v
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House, expressing their concern at the indis¬
position of the Governour, and desiring he will retire from the duties of his office for the recovery of his health; and
he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Commissioners of the Navy, enclosing the present state of
the several armed vessels belonging to this country; which was read, and referred to the Committee upon the State of
the Country.
The House, according to the order/of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resuihed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, Chat the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he reajl in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and* agreed to. •
Resolved, That the Commissioners of the Navy be desired, as soon as possible, to send such of the armed vessels
belonging to this State to cruise on the enemy as can be spared, and may be properly fitted for that purpose.
Resolved, That the Governour, with the advice of the Privy Council, be desired to employ so many of our crui¬
sers, or other vessels, as are fit for the. purpose, in exporting the produce of this country to such foreign ports, those
of Great Britain excepted, as may be judged most proper for obtaining a speedy and effectual supply of necessaries
for our army and navy ; a proper quantity of salt, and a sufficient number of cotton and wool cards, for the use of the
inhabitants of the country, to be distributed in such manner as may be judged necessary, and paid for at such prices as
those articles may cost, all charges included.
Ordered That the Treasurer do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther consi¬
deration the state of the country. ■ ■■ , .
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing two letters from colonel Christian,
relating to the Indian expedition; which were read, and ordered to lie on the table.
34
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee to whom the-bill For ascertaining the boundary between the county oj
Augusta and the district of West Augusta, and for dividing the said district into three distinct counties, was
committed, reported, that the committee had gone through the said bill, and made several amendments thereto; wipch
he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and
agreed to. •
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have not yet concurred with the House in their resolution for putting the torts on
the frontiers of this State under the direction of Congress. They desire to see the papers upon which the resolution
is founded, and expect rhat in future all letters and papers directed to the General Assembly, will belaid before them.
And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That the said message do lie on the table.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate, — To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments,—For raising six
additional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment, and. the order of the day for the House to pro¬
ceed against the several members who failed to appear when the House was called over on the 18th instant, being
read,
Ordered', That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, October 31, J776.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For appointing naval officers, and ascertaining their fees, and
that the Committee for Trade do prepare and bring in the same.
A petition of John Brown, John Woodniff, and Tandy Johnson, was presented to the House, and read; setting
forth, that they were minute soldiers stationed at Jamestown in the month of July last, and were there taken sick;
that they have since been conveyed by their friends to their respective homes, but that while sick they were obliged
to incur an expense, amounting to 51. Is. 6d. to a physician, for medicines and attendance, which they pray may be
paid by the publick.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the mat¬
ter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Sussex, complaining that they suffered great inconveniencies
from the owners of mills on Nottoway river having erected milldams, by which the passage of fish is greatly obstructed,
and praying that such obstructions may be removed.
Also a petition of the freeholders and inhabitants of the counties of Lunenburg and Mecklenburg, complaining
of the like inconveniencies from the obstructions in the river Meherrin, and praying they may be removed.
Also a petition of David Davis, setting forth, that he is desirous of engaging in a linen and woolen manufactory,
if he can be encouraged and enabled by the publick; that he proposes to borrow 500/. and to mortgage a tract of land
for the payment thereof worth 900/. and praying the loan of the said sum of money.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for .paying to JValter Steward the sum
of 14/. for a horse lost in the service on the expedition against the Indiansj and he delivered the same in at the bar,
and then withdrew.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, "according to order, a bill To empower the eldest Privy
Counsellor, in case of the death, inability, or necessary absence of the Governour and Lieutenant Governour,
to perform the executive part of government; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Matthews.
Mr. Speaker,
, The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House instructing the delegates from this State
in General Congress to protest against dismembering this State of any part of its territory, and for adopting proper
measures against any persons in this State who should attempt to form themselves into a distinct or independent go¬
vernment without the consent of the Legislature; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, and had made some progress therein.,
but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move for leave to sit again. °
85
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther conside-
ration the state of the country.
Ordered, That Mr. Jones have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the recovery of his health.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate,—For reviving the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments,— To raise six
additional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment, and the order of the day for the House to pro¬
ceed against the several members who failed to appear when the House was called over on the 18th instant, being
read, *
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Ordered, That Mr. Taylor of Caroline, have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday
se'nnight.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
' * FRIDAY, November 1, 1776.
A petition from the dissenters from the church of England in the counties of Albemarle and Amherst, was pre¬
sented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they are exposed to great hardships in being obliged to contribute
to the support of the established church, contrary to the dictates of their conscience; and praying that every religious
denomination may be put upon an equal footing, independent of another.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Religion; that they inquire into the allegations
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Abraham Cowley was presented to the House, and read; praying to be allowed the sum of 16/. for
Vftood furnished the prisoners of the 14th regiment who were sent to Richmondy and the guard attending them.
On the question put, that the said petition be referred to a committee, it passed in the negative.
Resolved, That the said petition be rejected.
A petition of William Bruce was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that, together with one Wil¬
liam Harrison, now deceased, he was inspector at Morton's and Gibson's warehouses, in the county of King George,
which inspections are distant about thirteen miles from each other; that they always took the greatest care to secure
the said warehouses, notwithstanding which, they were several times broken open, and several hogsheads of tobacco,
amounting to 2612 pounds neat, were stolen thereout, and in the same year a quantity of transfer tobacco, amounting
to 2153 pounds, which proceeded from no neglect; that he has been obliged to pay the proprietors for the said tobacco;
that by some oversight of the petitioner, in drawing off the list of tobacco damaged by the heavy rains which fell in
the year 1769, one hogshead, weighing 1152 pounds neat, was omitted; and praying to be allowed for all the said
;tobacco.
Also, a petition of Richard Hewitt and Elias Hore, late inspectors of Aquia warehouse, setting forth, that in
the year 1771, when commissioners were appointed to state and settle the accounts of the tobacco damaged by the
great fresh, they presented a list of the same to the commissioners; but there being then in the said warehouse a large
quantity .of tobacco, it was impossible for them to examine the whole, by which means they omitted nine hogsheads
of damaged tobacco, for which they have been obliged to satisfy the proprietors.
Also, a petition of Peter Helphinstine, setting forth, that on the march of the regiment to which he belonged, to
South Carolina, a horse valued at 20/. died through hard service; that after the defeat of general Clinton at Charles-
town, he was seized with a violent disorder, which prevented him from marching with the regiment to Georgia, and
on that account obtained leave of general Lee to resign; that his return home was attended with considerable expense,
and.praying the House will make him such compensation as they shall think just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Peter Light was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he is desirous of erecting a slit¬
ting mill on his plantation in the county of Berkeley, but is unable, for want of sufficient stock, to proceed in the said
business without the assistance of this House; and praying that a sum of money may be advanced him, for the pay¬
ment of which, in money, slit iron, or nails, he is ready to give bond with sufficient security.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill For the establish¬
ment of Courts of Justice, that they divide the subject thereof into five distinct bills, under the following titles; A
bill for establishing a Court of Appeals, A bill for establishing a High Court of Chancery. A bill for estab¬
lishing a General Court, A bill for establishing a Court of Admiralty, and A bill for regulating the proceed¬
ings of County Courts,
A bill For ascertaining the boundary between the county of Augusta and the district of West Augusta, and
for dividing the said district into three distinct counties, was read the third time.
• Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Simms carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
36
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
]yjR Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act declaring tenants of lands or slaves in
taille to hold the same in fee simple; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For raising six addi¬
tional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their conside-
ration the said bill, and had gone through the same, and made several amendments thereto, which he read in his place,
and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were, again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker, .
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House, empowering the Governour and Council
to take such measures for the preservation or disposition of the horses and provisions mentioned in the letter of Mr,
Thomas Madison as shall appear most proper, and to the resolution recommending it to the Governour and Council to
give instructions to the commanding officer of the army destined against the Cherolceesto take such steps at the end
of the campaign for the future protection of the south-western frontier as shall appear to be necessary; and he delivered
the same in at the bar, and then withdrew. • . j
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petition of John JM^ Guire and Charles Forterfield, to them referred, and had come to the
following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the
same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the allegations of the said petition are true, and that the petitioners ought to be allowed soldiers'
pay from the 22d of June, 1775, the tim« they entered into that service, till the 1st of November, 1776, which at
Is. 6d. per day, amounts to the sum of 37/. 5s. 6d. each, also the farther sum of 25/. each, to reimburse them
their expenses, and as an acknowledgment of their great merit, and compensation for their extraordinary fatigue and
hardships in a long and painful march to Quebeck, and irksome captivity there, and being prevented by their confine¬
ment of that advantage which other cadets have had of rising in the army.
Resolved, That application be made by the delegates from Virginia to the General Congress, to reimburse this
State the sum of 66/. 5s. 4d., being the amount of the pay of the said cadets under the continental establishment, from
the 22d day of June, 1775, till the 1st of November, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House, allowing Gabriel Maupin the sum of
50/. for receiving into and delivering out of the magazine the military stores belonging to this State.
Also to the resolutions for sending the armed vessels belonging to this State to cruise on the enemy, and for em¬
ploying so many of our cruisers and other vessels as are fit for the purpose, in exporting the produce of this countrr,
for obtaining a speedy supply of necessaries for the army and navy, and a proper supply of cotton and wool cards for
the inhabitants of this country; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That Mr. Wills have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Thursday, and Mr,
Tazewell, until Friday next.
A bill To empower the eldest Privy Counsellor, in case of the death, inability, or necessary absence of the
Governour and Lieutenant Governour, to perform the executive part oj government, was read a second time, and
ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itsedf into a committee on the said bill.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate—To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with
amendments,—and the order of the day for the House to proceed against the several members'who failed to appear
when the House was called over on the 18th of October, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, November 2, 1776.
Ordered, That there be a call of the House on Monday next, at 11 o'clock.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Prince William was presented to the House, and read - settins
forth, that they consider the community at large as equally interested in the present struggle for the rights and liberties
of mankind; that the landlord and tenant, the creditor and debtor, the gentleman and peasant, ought to share a iust
proportion of the inevitable evils attendant on war, and a total deprivation of trade; that whilst the rents of lands and
87
the interest of money, are accumulating from year to year, should the tenants and debtors have no possible means of
payment from their honest industry, they conceive there will be an inequality, which unless attended to, and relieved
against, must involve many in ruin; that they do not ask that the rents of lands, and the interest of money, should be
abolished, but they hope landlords and creditors will be content to receive the same in the produce of the earth, at
such prices, and in such manner, as shall be thought reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration the petition of John Goodrich the younger, in behalf of himself and company,
to them referred, and had come to several resolutions thereupon, as follows:
Resolved, as the opinion of this committee, that so much of the said petition as prays that the balance due to the
said petitioner and company, for goods furnished Mr. William */3ylett, for the use of this country, may be paid, is
reasonable, and that the sum of 1093/. ought to be paid to the said petitioner by the publick.
Resolved, as the opinion of this committee, that such other part of the said petition as prays that the petitioner
may be absolved from the sentence of the Convention in January^ last, forbidding all persons to have farther dealings
with the said petitioner, and that he may be restored to the capacity of following his vocation, is reasonable.
| The first of the said resolutions being again twice read, was, on th&question put, ordered to be re-committed to
the said committee.
The second of the said resolutions being also twice read, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
. A petition of Philip Pendletdh and James Myler, inspectors at Wallcerton warehouses, in King and Queen
county, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that some time in the year 1774, one of the warehouses
,of the said inspection was broke open, and a hogshead of tobacco, weighing 1080 pounds neat, stolen thereout, for
which they have been obliged to pay 11. Os. 4d. and praying to be reimbursed by the publick.
Also a petition of Joel Cornick, jun. Thomas Bancks, Lemuel Cornick, and William Haynes, setting forth,
Ethat Harry, a negro man slave belonging to the petitioner Joel, Jemmy to the petitioner Thomas, Romeo to the
^petitioner Lemuel, and Europe to the petitioner William, being in Lord Dunmore's service, were taken at the
! Cheat Bridge in the month of December last, and were afterwards by the Committee of Safety sent to the West
$Indies, in a vessel commanded by Capt. John Dixon, which was seized by a British ship of war, and made prize of,
sand praying to be allowed the valuation of the said slaves.
Also a petition of Jacob Keeling, setting forth, that Lewis and Bob, two negro slaves belonging to him, being
!iin like manner taken in the service of Lord Dunmore, and sent with Capt. Dixon to the West Indies, were made
^prize of, and praying to be allowed the valuation of the said slaves.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of sundry persons residing at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley, was presented to the
House, and read; setting forth,.that the said spnugohave for many years past been resorted to by people afflicted with
'Various disorders, great numbers of whom have every season-received benefit from the use of the waters; that there
are at present upwards of four hundred persons, most of whom are attending for the recovery of their health; that the
ifojaid springs, with the adjacent lands, are held by the right honourable Thomas Lord Fairfax, or by some person or
cafpersons by an office grant, or other secret conveyance, from him; that he has been frequently applied to to erect proper
obuildings for the reception of company, or to grant the property .of some part of the adjacent lands to such persons as
were desirous of building thereon for that purpose, but could never be prevailed on to do so, by which means every
,lbne whom misfortunes drive thither is subjected to many inconveniencies, more especially the poor and indigent, not
saving shelters to save them from the inclemency of the weather, being denied the privileges of cutting timber on his
Kf(ordship's land, either for building or fuel; and praying the consideration of the premises, and that some mode may
lope adopted for rendering the natural advantages above mentioned of publick and general utility, reserving to his lord¬
ship, or his granteefs, all the profits which their property in the soil reasonably entitles them to.
Also a petition of John West, jun. setting forth, that John Colville, late of the county of Fairfax, deceased,
wipeing seized of sundry tracts of land in the said county, several offliem lying in that part of it since called Loudoun,
0iy his last will and testament, dated the sixth day of May, 1755, devised the said lands, with sundry slaves, to the
jufight honourable Charles earl of Tankerville, of the kingdom of England, since deceased, and appointed the said
sari and Thomas Colville his executors; that the said Thomas Colville, as executor and agent for the said earl, con¬
tinued to manage the said estate until his death, which happened in the year 1766, after which the petitioner was
authorised to succeed the said Colville, but his authority was in a little time superseded by the death of the said earl
af Tankerville, who, as the petitioner has good cause to believe, devised the said estate to the honourable Henry
Bennett, Esq. his young son, then and still an infant; that knowing many of the tenants to be unmanageable, he wrote
to the present earl of Tankerville, guardian of the said Henry Bennett, advising, that a new power of attorney should
be sent to some person for the management of the said estate, but he has not yet attended to the matter; that it be¬
soming publick that the petitioner's power was incomplete, many have taken advantage thereof, and many of the
tenants placed legally on the land withhold their rents, and near 200 families have settled thereon without any per-
jnission or authority, and cut and destroyed the timber in a shameful manner; that he is apprehensive such combina¬
tions are formed among the occupiers of the land as would render it difficult, if not dangerous, to act if a power should
''.arrive from England; and praying, on behalf of the said Henry Bennett, that commissioners may be appointed to
38
oppose waste, to receive the rents, and compromise for arrears, and that the profits of the said lands and slaves may
be paid into the publick treasury for the use of the said Henry Bennett.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill Declaring what shall be trea-
son; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to,
Resolved, That the petitioner John Brown, John Woodrough, and Tandy Johnston, soldiers in the minute ser¬
vice of this State, who were taken sick in the said service, and continued ill for some time after they returned to their
respective homes, which rendered the assistance of a physician necessary, praying to be reimbursed the expense thereof,
is reasonable; and that the following allowances be made the said petitioners, to wit: To John Brown the sum of 1/,
7s. 3d. John Woodrough 11. Is. 6d. and Tandy Johnson 21. 181. 9d. to reimburse them their respective expenses
as aforesaid.
Resolved, That the petition of Alexander Lithgow, praying to be allowed for sundry liquors and biscuit fur-
nished the militia of Prince William county, whilst they were intrenching at the mouth of Quantico, be rejected.
Resolved, That the petition of Sarah Millyard and Jane Dixon, praying relief in their present distressed situa¬
tion, they having had all their effects, as well as the dwelling house of the said Jane, consumed when Norfolk was
burnt, by means of which loss, and their advanced age and other infirmities, they are rendered incapable of getting
necessary subsistence, is reasonable, and that the petitioners be allowed each the sum of 10/. for their present relief.
Resolved, That the petition of Peter Helphinstine, late major of the eighth regiment, praying to be allowed for
a horse which died on the march of the said regiment from Suffolk to South Carolina, and also to be reimbursed his
expenses in returning home from Charles/own, where he was seized with a violent disorder that rendered him incapa¬
ble of marching with the troops to Georgia, and was, in consequence thereof, permitted to resign his commission,
be rejected, it appearing to be a matter wherein the continent alone is interested.
Resolved, That the petition of James Suggett, praying to be allowed for a horse which died in the continental
service, be rejected.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the first and third of the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence. |
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To empower the eldesi
Privy Counsellor, in case of the death, inability, or necessary absence of the Governour and Lieutenant-Gov-
ernour, to perform the executive part of government; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the
chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said
bill, and had gone through the same, and made several amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards
delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Ordered, That there be an immediate call of the House.
The House was accordingly called over, and Mr. John Winn, Mr. John Mayo, Mr. John Banister, Mr. Geor°t
Mason, Mr. James Wood, Mr. Lewis Burwell, Mr. Mann Page, jun. of Gloucester, Mr Thomas Johnson, Mr,
William Clayton, Mr. Mann Page of Spotsylvania, Mr. William Harwood, and Mr. William Roscow Wilson
Curie, failing to appear, it is ordered, that they be taken into custody by the Serjeant at Arms, to answer for their
said default.
Ordered, That Mr. Nathaniel L. Savage have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Tuesday
next.
Ordered, That Mr. Patteson and Mr. John Cabell be excused for not appearing when the House was called
over on the 18th of October last.
Ordered, That Mr. Ly ne be added to the Committee of Publick Claims, Mr. Williams to the Committee of Re¬
ligion, and Mr. Henry and Mr. Page to the Coirfhiittee of Privileges and Elections.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to examine the Treasurer's accounts; and that Mr. Henry, Mr. Gmy,
Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Fitzhugh, Mr. Adams, Mr. Curie, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Prentis, Mr. Pickett, Mr. Speed, Mr,
Bullitt, and Mr. Williams, be of the said committee.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate, and To revive the late laivs relating to the inspection of tobacco; with
amendments, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Monday next.
A bill For raising six additional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment, was read a third
time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Jefferson do carry the same to the Senate for their concur
rence.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
m
MONDAY, November 4, 1776.
The House being informed that Mr. Page of Spotylvania, Mr. Mayo, Mr. Bunnell, Mr. Clayton and Mr.
Curie, attended in custody of the Serjeant at Arms,,
Ordered, That they be discharged out of custody, and admitted to their seats in this House, on paying fees.
A bill To increase the reward for apprehending horsestealers, and for other purposes therein mentioned,
'was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
1 The House being informed that Mr. Harwood and Mr. Wood attended in custody of the Serjeant, and had good
'cause for not appearing when the House was called over, on Saturday last,
1 Ordered, That they be discharged from custody, and admitted to their seats in this House, without paying fees.
' A memorial of Smyth Tandy was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he has been regularly
"bred to the business of manufacturing and bleaching of linen in Ireland, and carried on the same in that kingdom for
'several years; that he proposes, if encouraged by the publick, to establish a bleach green, with a mill and all other
'necessaries, after the most proved and complete models, at his plantation within four miles of Staunton in Augusta
county, which is well situated for that purpose; but as the same will be attended with considerable expense, he finds
'it impossible to proceed therein without the assistance of the publick, and praying for such assistance.
' Also, a petition of sundry prisoners confined in the public jail, setting forth, that several of them, who have
'wives and families, have been for a long time imprisoned, and finding no method has been yet adopted for their trial,
fare under great apprehensions of suffering for want of necessary clothes during the inclemency of the approaching
1 season, and praying such relief as this House shall judge reasonable.
» Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
'inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House,
s Mr. Carter, from the committee appointed to inquire into and report the state of the public vineyard under Mr.
wEstave, reported, that the oommittee had, according to order, examined into the same, and that it appeared to them
sthat there are now ten acres#of land in the cultivation of vines, containing about thirty thousand in a flourishing state,
the houses in good repair, and the slaves increased and healthy, except one; that the manager of the vineyard has for
ia long time been deprived of a negro man slave now in possession of colonel Churchill, payment for which appears,
by several letters, to have been repeatedly promised; that little or no expense will be incurred by a continuance of the
[vineyard a year or two longer, and that its success would be productive of great advantage to this State, as well as the
[continent in general: and that they had come to a resolution thereupon, which he read in his place, and afterwards
[delivered in at the clerk's table, .where the same was again twice read and disagreed to, and is as follows:
Resolved, That the said Andrew Estave be continued manager of the said vineyard for two years longer.
t On a motion made,
p Resolved, That commissioners be appointed to make sale of the lands and slaves in the tenure and possession of
the said Andrew Estave belonging to the publick.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill pursuant to the said resolution; and that Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Joseph
Cabell, and Mr. Meriwether, do prepare and bring in the same.
{ Ordered, That it be an instruction to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, who are directed to prepare
,3ttd bring in a bill For establishing a ferry over the Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Trent to the land of
(Nicholas Davies, that they receive a clause, or clauses, for establishing a ferry from the point of the fork of the Ri-
,vannah apd Fluvannah rivers, across the said Fluvannah, to the lands late the property of Philip Mayo, deceased,
on the south side thereof, also from the said point of the fork across the said Rivannah to the lands of Samuel Mar¬
gin, across the mouths of the two rivers, to the said lands late the property of the said Philip Mayo, on the south side
of the said Fluvannah, and also for establishing a ferry across the said Fluvannah river, from the lands of William
Cannon, on the south side thereof, to the lands of Walter King, on the opposite side.
An engrossed bill, To empower the eldest Privy Counsellor to act as Lieutenant-Governour in case of the
death, inability, or necessary absence of the Governour and President of the Council, was read a third time.
1 Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Bullitt do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
I The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country, and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and* Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
'according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following reso¬
lution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was
again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the Treasurer be empowered to emit treasury notes to the amount of 100,000/. in dollars and
parts of dollars, to answer the pressing demands against the publick, for the redemption of which provision shall be
made this session; and that the Treasurer be authorised to appoint proper persons to sign and number the said notes,
and to overlook the press.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the bill To revive the late
laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments ; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker re¬
sumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made a farther progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed
him to move for leave to sit again.
40
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker, .,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House empowering the Treasurer to emit trea.
sury notes to the amount of 100,000/. in dollars and parts of dollars, to answer the pressing demands against the pub.
lick; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To establish the places oj
holding courts in the counties of Pitsylvania and Henry; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a
second time. . ,
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For establishing the places for holding courts in tne counties
of Stafford and King George; and that Mr. Carter, Mr, Fitzhugh, and Mr. Brent, do prepare and bring in the
same. . -
Mr. Henry, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For the speedy election of com¬
mittees in such counties as have omitted electing them at the time prescribed by law, and for limiting their con•
tinuance; which was read the first time, and on the question put that the said bill be read a second time, it passed in
the negative.
Resolved, That the said bill be rejected.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For dissolving the several county and corporation committees
in this Commonwealth, and that Mr. Henry and Mr. Jefferson, do prepare and bring in the same.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bill Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate, and for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Mr. Henry, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For dissolving the several
county and corporation committees in this Commonwealth; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read
a second time.
Ordered, That a new writ issue for the election of a sub-delegate for the county of Charles City, during the ab¬
sence of Benjamin Harrison, Esq. the former writ having been executed and returned by the late sheriff of the said
county after the expiration of his sheriffalty.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, November 5, 1776.
Mr. Carter, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For establishing the places for
holding courts in the counties of Stafford and King George; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a
second time.
A petition of Jlndrew Edwards was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he shall be exposed to
great inconveniencies from a determination of the Commissioners of the Navy to appropriate Cave's warehouses, on
the land of the petitioner, for the purpose of storing the different commodities necessary for the navy in Potowmack,
and praying that the said inspection may be put down, and the petitioner, rs far as may be consistent with the publick
good, relieved against the said inconveniencies.
Also a petition of James Hunter, setting forth, that the Commissioners of the Navy have contracted with him
to take care of the naval stores and other materials for ship-building, and to have the same secured in some safe place;
that he hath pitched upon Cave's warehouses, on the head of Potowmack creek, as a place not accessible to the ene¬
my, and so situated, as, should the passage through Chesapeake bay be obstructed, and it becomes necessary to get
stores from Philadelphia, the expense of much land carriage would be saved by a considerable inland navigation; that
the lot on which the said warehouses stand is the property of the publick, and the warehouse built at the country's ex¬
pense, on account of which there is an arrear of upwards of 300/. and praying he may be allowed the use of the said
lot and warehouses at a reasonable rent, with liberty to build a storehouse on the said lot at the publick expense, he
paying an additional rent for the same, or to build thereon at his own expense.
Also several petitions from the inhabitants of Cumberland county, setting forth, that they have for a great num¬
ber of years laboured under inconveniencies from the extensive bounds of the said county, and praying a division
thereof.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Richard Bean was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he enlisted as a soldier
under Capt. Campbell, in the first Virginia regiment, on the 28th day of September, 1775, from which time he is
entitled to pay, but that by some mistake in Capt. Campbell he was only allowed pay from the 4th of November last,
by which means the sum of 21. 9s. 4d. still remains due to him, and praying payment thereof.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the matte]
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
44
Ordered, That Mr. Harrison, Mr. Prentis, Mr. Page of Gloucester, Mr. Wilson Miles Gary, Mr. Wood,
Mr. Digges, Mr. Edmondson, Mr. Brent, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Muse, Mr. Washington, Mr. Acrill, Mr. Faitlcon,
Mr. Richard Cary, Mr. Ewell, Mr. Pickett, Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Carter, Mr. Lyne, and Mr. Coleman, be added
to the Committee for Religion.
Ordered, That Mr. Harrison be added to the Committee of Privileges and Elections.
An engrossed bill, For increasing the reward for apprehending horsestealers, and for other purposes therein
mentioned, was read the third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Bullitt carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A bill Declaring what shall be treason» was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a committee of
the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Friday next resolve itself ihto a committee on the said bill.
A bill For dissolving the several county and corporation committees in this Commonwealth, was read a
second time, and ordered to be committed to*a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Thursday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
Mr. Speaker laid before the House a letter from the delegates appointed to represent this State in General Con¬
gress, enclosing the proceedings of the Convention of the State of Pennsylvania on the subject of the disputed boun¬
dary between this Commonwealth and Pennsylvania; which were read, and together with a former letter from the
said delegates, on the same subject, ordered to be referred to Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Lee, Mr Henry, Mr. Ewell, Mr.
Madison, Mr. Lewis, Mr. M'Dowell, Mr. Hite, Mr. Simms, and Mr. Wood; and they are to report the same, with
their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of divers inhabitants of the county of Halifax, praying that the courthouse of the
«aid county may be moved to or near the centre thereof, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of divers inhabitants of the county of Halifax, in opposition thereto, be rejected.
Resolved, That the petition of Alexander Hanewinkel, praying a sum of money to enable him to erect proper
works for manufacturing of linen, be rejected
Ordered, That the said committee do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the first of the said resolutions.
The House, according to the order of the day, being about to ballot for the appointment of a committee to revise
the laws, several gentlemen were nominated as proper persons to be ballotted for.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry a list of the persons so nominated, to the Senate, and desire they will lay
before this House a list of such persons as shall be nominated in their House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
I am directed by the Senate to lay before this House a list of gentlemen who have been nomi¬
nated as proper persons to be ballotted for to revise the laws; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then with¬
drew.
The House then proceeded to ballot for the said committee; and the members having prepared tickets for the
persons to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box, Mr. Starke, Mr. Curie, Mr. Prentis, and Mr Lyne,
were appointed a committee to meet a committee to be appointed by the Senate, and report to the House upon whom
the majority fell.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
committee from the Senate, in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that
the majority was in favour of Thomas Jefferson, Edmund Pendleton, George Wythe, George Mason, and Thomas
Ludwell Lee, Esquires.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Thomas Jefferson, Edmund Pendleton, George Wythe, George Mason,
and Thomas Ludwell Lee, be appointed.a committee to revise the laws of this commonwealth.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill For farther continuing
the act intituled An act to make provision for the support and maintenance of ideots, lunaticks, and other per¬
sons of unsound minds, was committed, reported, that the committee had gone through the said bill, and had directed
him to report the same, without any amendment; and he delivered the bill in at the table.
Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed, and read a third time.
The proceedings of a court-martial for the county of Prince William, held on the 17th of October last, were
presented to the House and read, setting forth the hardships that many of the militia of the said county labour under
in consequence of being subjected to fines for appearing at muster without arms, which are not to be procured even by
those who are able to purchase, together with ,a letter on the subject thereof.
Ordered, That the said proceedings and letter be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; and
that they report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
42
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, who are directed to prepare
and bring in a bill For establishing a ferry across the Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Trent,to the land
0/Nicholas Davies; that they receive a clause or clauses, for establishing a ferry across James river, from the lands of
Anderson Britton, in Chesterfield county, to the lot of Thomas Jefferson in Beverley town, on the opposite side.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To revive the late laws
relating to the 'inspection of tobacco, with amendments; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed
the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the
said bill,'and had made a farther progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to
move for leave to sit again. # • , ., ,
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bill Declaring slaves to be personal estate, and for a call of the House^ being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, November 6, 1776.
Ordered, That the Committee of Publick Claims be discharged-from proceeding upon the petition of Daniel
Sanford, and that it be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To amend the act intituled
An act for better securing the payment of levies and restraint of vagrants, and making provision for the poor:
which was read thedirst.time, tmd ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Adams, from the Committee of Trade, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their
consideration the bill To revive and amend an act intituled An act for the inspection of pork, beef flour, tar,
pitch, and turpentine, and had gone through the same, and made several amendments thereto; which he read in his
place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A petition of Elizabeth Brown was. presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that her late husband Cole¬
man Brown, enlisted in the year 1774, with Captain Morgan, on the expedition against the Ohio Indians, and was
killed by them; that they took from him a mare and colt, his rifle gun, with several other things, by which she is left
in very distressful circumstances, with two young children; and praying this House will enable her to support her
helpless infants, and relieve her present distress.
Also a petition of William Brooks, setting forth, that being possessed of 91. 4s. of the paper currency of this
Commonwealth, the same was casually lost and destroyed, and praying that the same may be allowed him by the
publick.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Arthur Upshur was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that being a native of, and
having every reason to love this country, he has for several years past ventured part of his fortune in trade, being
partly induced thereto from the conveniency of his situation, on a fine navigable creek on the seaboard in the county
of Accomack; that before the resolution of Congress to shut up our ports he had several vessels on the stocks, which
he expected to have finished before the tenth of September in the same year, one of which he designed to send out
on his own account, but by the accidental sickness of his workmen, and the delay unavoidably occasioned by the un¬
common storm on the 2d of September, he was prevented from sailing the said vessel till some time after the 10th of
that month; that having understood the merchants at Norfolk, whose vessels were driven on shore, were permitted to
proceed on their intended voyages, after they were got off, although the tenth of September was elapsed, and having
also understood it was allowable to make a voyage to any of the foreign islands, at any time, he sent his said vessel to
the island of Martinico, from whence she returned with a cargo of salt; that upon the arrival of the said vessel, un¬
derstanding it was the desire of the committee to see him, he accordingly attended them, and they thought proper to
lay a fine upon him of 100/. alledging, as he afterwards understood, they took the matter up as arbitrators, a submis¬
sion which he never intended to make to that body; that under these circumstances, and from a consciousness of the
uprightness of his intentions, and a firm reliance on the wisdom and justice of this House, he makes this application;
that he has not a wish to obtain any relief if he shall appear an enemy to this country; that he does not ask for any se¬
curity from a government which he does not desire to support, but that to be held up to the publick as an enemy,
when at the most he acted under a mistaken opinion, as he has since been told, to be precluded from all traffick and
commerce with his countrymen for that mistake, and lastly, to be grievously fined, are matters which he submits to
the consideration qi this House; and praying such relief as shall seem just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Privileges and Elections; that they inouire into
the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon; to the House.
43
A petition of Isaac Smithes presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that lord Dunmore is indebted
to him, as surviving partner of Bowdoin and Eyre, in the sum of 63/. 16s. halfpenny, and praying that he may be allowed
a satisfaction for his said demand out of the estate of lord Dunmore within this Commonwealth.
Ordered, That the'said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same> with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for ascertaining the boundary between the
county of Augusta and the district of West Augusta, and for dividing the said district into three distinct coun¬
ties, with an amendment, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar,
tand then withdrew.
And the said amendment was read, and is as follows, viz: Page 3d, line 21st, between the election and in insert
and have and enjoy all other privileges of freeholders, agreeable to the laws of this Commonwealth; and the said
amendment being read a second time, was agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Simms do carry the bill to the Senate, and acquaint them that this House hath agreed to the
amendment made by them.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have had the bill For raising six additional battalions of infantry on the conti¬
nental establishment, under their consideration, and wish to see the papers from Congress relative to raising the said
battalions; and then he withdrew.
j Ordered, That the clerk of this House do deliver the said papers to the clerk of the Senate.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To enable the late sheriffs of those counties to act which have
hot recommended sheriffs, until new sheriffs can be recommended and qualified.
3 Mr. Meriwether, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For appointing commis¬
sioners to dispose of the lands and slaves formerly purchased pursuant to an act intituled din act for encou¬
raging the making wine; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
An engrossed bill, For farther continuing the act intituled Jin act to make provision for the support and
maintenance of ideots, lunaticks, and other persons ofunotnvud minds, was read the third time, and the blanks
^herein filled up.
,s Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Braxton carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence,
j" A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
jr Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act to empower the eldest Privy Counsellor
r'o act as Lieutenant Governour in case of the death, inability, or necessary absence of the Governour and Pre¬
sident of the Council; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
^ Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For encouraging the making of hemp, woollen, linen, and
it her manufactures; and that Mr. Bullitt, Mr. M'Dowell, Mr. Carter, Mr. Clapham, Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Jeffer¬
son, Mr. Wood, Mr. Henry, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Adams, Mr. Taylor, Mr. Hite, and Mr. Fleming, do prepare and
f>ring in the same.
V Ordered, That any member of this House be at liberty to sit and vote in the Committees of Propositions and
jlrievances and for ^Religion.
!S Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
^o order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
^hereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
^wice read, and agreed to.
^ Resolved, That the petition of Smyth Tandy, praying that a sum of money may be advanced to assist him in
Erecting proper works for manufacturing and bleaching of linen, be rejected.
Resolved, That the petition of Peter Light, praying that a sum of money may be advanced, to the petitioner to
Assist him in erecting a slitting mill, be rejected.
d Resolved, That the petition of sundry persons residing at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley, pray¬
ing that part of the lands adjacent to the said springs, being the property of the right hon. Thomas lord Fairfax, may
^e so disposed of as that the purchasers may have liberty to erect thereon proper houses for the accommodation of those
'persons who may come there for the recovery of their health, is reasonable, and that fifty acres of the said land ought
i^io be laid off for a town.
W Resolved, That the petition of George Brent, and Robert Brent, praying that, two negro slaves, the property of
n%e petitioners, who were by a resolution of Convention directed to be employed in the lead mines, may be delivered
the petitioners, and the money due to them for their hire paid, is reasonable.
«* Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the third
•esolution and that the Governour be desired to take proper measures for having the slaves mentioned in the fourth
Resolution' conveyed at the publick expense from the lead mines, and delivered to their said masters.
44
Ordered, That Mr. Buvwell have leave to be absent from the service of this House, for the recovery of his
health. ,
A bill To establish the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry, was read, a second
time, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved,' That this House will on Friday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A petition of John Hobday was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he was appointed manager
of the salt works between the rivers of Rappahannock and York, and between York and James rivers, in conse-
quence of which, he employed a number of labourers at the price of 2s. 6d. per day, besides an allowance for rum,
which was the lowest price at which they could be hired at that season of the year; that he lately made up an account of
the expense incurred in the said works, and returned the same to the Council, who, to his great astonishment, madej
deduction of six pence per day from the price he had hired the said labourers at, and Is. 3d. from the hire of sol-
diers employed therein, and also a farther deduction for the spirits supplied the said labourers; that the several deduc¬
tions aforesaid amount in the whole to 173/. 6\s. 6d. which he prays may be allowed, in order to enable him to per-
form his engagements, made in consequence.of the appointment of this House.^
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee appointed to inquire into and report the state of the
several publick salt works in this commonwealth; that they inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same,
with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To revive the latt
laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their conside¬
ration the said bill, ;and had gone through the same and made several amendments thereto, which he was ready to report
when the House should be pleased to receive the same.
Ordered, That the said report be received to-morrow.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bill Declaring slaves to be personal estate, and the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
» THURSDAY, November 7, 1776.
A petition of Edward Garland was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he entered very early,
with the greatest cheerfulness, into the service of his country, and intends to continue therein; that he underwent;
very hard and dangerous campaign last winter in and about the town of Norfolk, and in the month of July last wa;
taken dangerously ill, so that the surgeon of the regiment to which he belonged thought his case desperate, upon which
it was determined to call in a physician; that doctor James M'Clurg was employed to attend him, who, under Pro¬
vidence, was the means of restoring him to his health; that doctor ftl'Clurg's charge amounts to 21/. lis. 6d. besides
6/. 15^. due to doctor Pasteur for medicines; that at the time he was taken ill the several hospitals were so crowded
with sick soldiers that it was thought very improper that he should be sent there, in consequence of which he was re¬
moved from his lodgings to the house of Mrs. Elizabeth Starke, who, for six weeks board and attendance, charge;
him the sum of 91. and praying that the said several sums of money may be paid by the publick.*
Also a petition of Elizabeth Foster, setting forth, that her husband, a minute-man in the county of Gloucester, was
ordered to Gwyn's island, to oppose the landing of lord Dunmore and his troops; that he was unfortunately wounded
with a cannon ball, under which wound he languished for six weeks, and then died, leaving her with a child about
nine months old, without a house, or any support; and praying such relief as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also, a petition of James Parsons, setting forth, that he was ordered to march with a company of the Hamp¬
shire mWitia, in the year 1764, against the Indians in the expedition commanded by lord Dunmore; that he was
directed to purchase a number of cattle for the use of the army, which he accordingly did, and was employed in that
business about ten days, for which he has received no satisfaction; and praying to be allowed a reasonable compensa¬
tion for his said services.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Kemp Whitingwas presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he furnished the seventh
regiment of troops belonging to this commonwealth with houses for an hospital during their stay.in Gloucester, after
which they were delivered up to him, but, as well as the plantation whereon they stood, had been greatly damaged by
the soldiery; and praying to be allowed a reasonable satisfaction for the use of the said houses, and for the damage*
aforesaid.
Also, a petition of Daniel Marchant, Elisha Marchant, Henry Powell, Philip Peed, Joseph Shipley, and
John Shipley; setting forth, that they lived in the neighbourhood of the camp at Gwyii's island, and suffered much
damage from the army stationed there, having had their fields of corn and every necessary of life destroyed, and their
45
houses pulled down, or removed for the use of the soldiery, by which they are rendered unable to support their fami¬
lies, and praying relief.
Also, a petition of Nathaniel L. Savage, setting forth, that he was possessed of several houses and a garden in
the town of York, which were in the month of February last taken possession of by capt. Nelson's company of regu¬
lars; that the houses and garden were then in good repair, but have been since greatly injured by the soldiers, and
praying such relief as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also, a petition of Isaac Smith, Preeson Bowdoin, and Thoroughgood Smith, executors of John Bowdoin,
deceased, praying that Reuben and James, two negro slaves belonging to the estate of the said John Bowdoin, who
were apprehended in endeavouring to join lord Dunmore, and afterwards sent to the lead mines, may be returned
them, with their hire.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of James Hunter was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that at a sale of the vessels and
slaves lately seized by capt. Taylor in Rappahannock river, he purchased a valuable slave, named Davy, for the sum
of ninety pounds, and gave bond, which is lodged with the Treasurer, for the same; that he employed the said slave
as a ferry-man, who in crossing the river was fired on and killed by a seaman on board a cruiser commanded by capt-
Callander, and praying to be released from payment of the said bond.
On the question put, that the said petition be referred to a committee, it passed in the negative.
Resolved, That the said petition be rejected.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for raising six additional battalions of
infantry on the continental establishment; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House being informed that Mr. Page of Gloucester attended in custody of the Serjeant at Arms,
On a motion made,
Ordered, That he be discharged from custody, and admitted to his seat in this House, on paying fees.
Ordered, That Mr. Fulgham have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next, and
Mr. Wilson Miles Cary, for the remainder of the session.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For altering the rates of the copper coin of this Common¬
wealth, and that Mr. Jefferson and Mr. Fleming do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee of the whole House, reported, according to order, amendments to the bill To
revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments; which he read in his place, and after¬
wards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For altering the rates of
the copper coin of this Commonwealth; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the President of the Privy Council, which was read, and ordered
to lie on the table.
Mr. Faulcon, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To enable the late sheriffs
of those counties to act which have not recommended sheriffs, until new sheriffs can be recommended and quali¬
fied; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act to increase the reward for apprehending
horsestealers, and for other purposes therein mentioned; also to the resolutions of this House allowing John By own
the sum of 1/ Is. 3d. John Woodrough 1/. Is. 6d. Tandy Johnson 21. 18s. 9d. Sarah Millyard and Jane Dixon
10/. each for their present relief, John Cox 6/. John George Woolfolk 21. 18s. 6d. Samuel Pritchard 61/. 2s. 3d.
out of the estate of lord Dunmore, in proportion with his other creditors, Edward Hack Moseley, jun. 74/. 12s. 6d.
and Samuel Wilson and John Hodges 42/. 17s. And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of the prisoners now in the publick jail, praying that some mode may be adopted for
bringing them to a speedy trial, and that in the mean time the petitioners may be furnished with clothing and blank¬
ets, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of James Hunter, praying that he may be allowed to build proper houses for the re¬
ception of naval stores on the lot of land whereon Cave's warehouses, in the county of Stafford, now stand, or appro¬
priate the said warehouses for that purpose, paying a certain rent for the same, be rejected.
Resolved, That the petition of the committee of the county of Dunmore, praying that Quakers and Menonists
may be compelled to attend private and general musters, or pay a certain sum annually in lieu of such attendance, is
reasonable.
12
46
Resolved, That the proposition of the court-martial in the county of Prince William, praying that militia-men
may be exempted from the payment of fines for not providing arms, be rejected.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To amend the several ordinances relating to the training of
the militia, and for reducing the same into one act; and that Mr. Braxton, Mr. Campbell, Mr. Henry, Mr.
Griffin, and Mr. Fleming, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the said committee that they receive a clause, or clauses, pursuant to the
third resolution. t
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill For adopting some
mode for the speedy trial of the prisoners confined in the publickjail; and that the keeper of the said jail do in the
mean time procure, at the publick expense, necessary clothing and blankets for the said prisoners, agreeable to the
first resolution.
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday next proceed by ballot to the appointment of field officers to com-
mand the six additional battalions of infantry to be raised on the continental establishment, and that Mr. Lee do ac.
quaint the Senate therewith.
A bill To enable the late sheriffs of those counties to act which have not recommended sheriffs, until new
sheriffs can be recommended and qualified, was read the second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Bullitt,
Mr. Gordon, Mr. Faulcon, and Mr. Talbot.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to write to George Wythe, Esq. acquainting him with his appointment to
be one of the committee for the revision of the laws, and desiring to know if it will be most agreeable to him to re¬
turn and accept the said appointment, or remain at Congress.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per.
sonal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees in this Commonwealth, for the House
to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
FRIDAY, November S, 1776.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding on the petitions of
Daniel Sanford, Kemp Whiting, Nathaniel Littleton Savage, Daniel Mar chant, Elisha Mqrchant, Henry
Powell, Philip Peed, Joseph Shipley, John Shipley, Ralph Shipley, and of the inhabitants of Tyger's Valley, and
that the said several petitions be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
A petition of William M'Farlin was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he was employed in
the service of the country on the expedition against the Indians in the year 1774, and has received no satisfaction for
the same, and praying that he may be paid for his said services.
Also a petition of Jindrew Waggoner, setting forth, that he was employed by the commanding officer at Fort
Pitt as an express with despatches to the Committee of Safety; that he rode a valuable horse of his own as far as the
county of Spotsylvania, where he failed, in consequence of which he was obliged to hire another horse, valued at
30/. which horse on his return died; that the person of whom he hired the said horse obliged him to pay the said sum
of 30/. before he would deliver to the petitioner his own horse, which he had left in his custody, and praying the said
sum of money may be allowed him by the publick.
Also a petition of Benjamim Peck, setting forth, that he owned a boat of the value of 6/. which lay on a creek
near the salt works in the county of Jlccomack, which the negroes employed in that service used as a ferry boat to
pass and repass to and from their respective homes, by which there was a saving to the country in the articles of wash¬
ing and diet, more than the value of the said boat; that about the time of their being discharged from the salt works
the said boat went adrift, and was lost; and praying such relief as shall be judged reasonable.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Culpeper, setting forth, that the fees of the clerks of the Gene¬
ral and several County Courts in this Commonwealth are exorbitant, and praying that the same may be reduced, and
the clerks obliged to reside in their respective counties.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To empower the justices of the county o/Norfolk to hold courts
at such place as they may appoint; and that Mr. Wilson, Mr. Robinson, and Mr. Godfrey, do prepare and brin^in
the same. 5
A bill For altering the rates of the copper coin of this Commonwealth, was read the second time, and ordered
tp be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A raes$age from the Senateby Mv. Holt.
MR. SiPEAKER,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for farther continuing the act intituled An
act to make provision for the support apd maintenance of ideots, lunaticks, and other persons of unsound minds;
and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That Mr. Page of Spotsylvania have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday
next.
The House* according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, and had come to several resolutions
thereupon, which he was ready to report when the House should be pleased to receive the same.
Ordered, That the said report be received to-morrow.
Resolvedly That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther conside¬
ration the state of the country.
A memorial of a considerable number of the clergy of the established church of Virginia was presented to the
House, and read; setting forth, that having understood various petitions have been presented to the Assembly, praying
the abolition of the established church in this State, wish to represent, that when they undertook the charge of parishes
in Virginia, they depended on the publick faith for the receiving that recompense for their services, during life, or
good behaviour, which the laws of the land promised, a tenure which to them appears of the same sacred nature as that
by which every man in the State holds, and has secured to him, his private property, and that such of them as are not
yet provided for, entered into holy orders expecting to receive the several emoluments which such religious establish¬
ment offered; that from the nature of their education they are precluded from gaining a tolerable subsistence in any
other way of life, and that therefore they think it would be inconsistent with justice either to deprive the present in¬
cumbents of parishes of any right or profits they hold or enjoy, or to cut off from such as are now in orders and unbe¬
neficed, those expectations which originated from the laws of the land, and which have been the means of disqualifying
them for any other profession or way of life; also, that though they are far from favouring encroachments on the reli¬
gious rights of any sect or denomination of men, yet they conceive that a religious establishment in a State is con¬
ducive to its peace and happiness, they think the opinions of mankind have a very considerable influence over their
practice, and that it therefore cannot be improper for the legislative body of a State to consider how such opinions as are
most consonant to reason, and of the best eflicacy in human affairs, may be propagated and supported; that they are
of opinion the doctrines of Christianity have a greater tendency to produce virtue amongst men than any human laws
or institutions, and that these can be best taught and preserved in their purity in an established church, which gives
encouragement to men to study and acquire a competent knowledge of the scriptures; and they think that if these
great purposes can be answered by a religious establishment, the hardships which such a regulation might impose on
individuals, or even bodies of men, ought not to be considered; also, that whilst they are fully persuaded of the good
effects of. religious establishments in general, they are more particularly convinced of the excellency of the religious
establishment which has hitherto subsisted in this State; that they ground their conviction on the experience of 150
years, during which period order and internal tranquillity, true piety and virtue, have more prevailed than in most
other parts of the world, and on the mild and tolerating spirit of the church established, which with all Christian cha¬
rity and benevolence has regarded dissenters of every denomination, and has shewn no disposition to restrain them in
the exercise of their religion; that it appears to them that the mildness of the church establishment has heretofore been
acknowledged by those very dissenters who now aim at its ruin, many of whom emigrated from other countries to set¬
tle in this, from motives, as they reasonably suppose, of interest and happiness; that they apprehend many bad con¬
sequences from abolishing the church establishment; that they cannot suppose, should all denominations of Christians
be placed upon a level, that this equality will continue, or that no attempt will be made by any sect for the superiority,
and that they foresee much confusion, probably civil commotions, will attend the contest; that they also dread the
ascendancy of that religion which permits its professors to threaten destruction to the Commonwealth, in order to serve
their own private ends; that though the justice and expediency of continuing the church establishment is a matter of
which they themselves have no doubt, yet they wish that the final determination of this House be deferred till the
general sentiments of the good people of this Commonwealth can be collected, as they have the best reasons to believe
that a majority of them desire to see the church establishment continued; and that as the sentiments of the people have
been attended to in other instances, they submit it to the consideration of the House, whether some regard should not
be paid to their sentiments in a matter which so nearly concerns them as that of religion.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to^the Committee for Religion; that they inquire into the allegations
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be personal
estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this Commonwealth,—For declaring
what shall be treason,—To establish the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry, and
the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
A petition of William Hudgins, Philip Peed, Robert Parrot, John Shipley, Ralph Shipley, Mary Hudgins,
Joseph Shipley, Anne Longest, Humphrey Billups, Elisha Marchant, Thomas Window, John Window, and
48
Daniel Marchant, was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that they have sustained considerable damage
by the seventh regiment, and have had their corn fields, potato and cotton patches, entirely destroyed, by which
means they are deprived of every necessary of life, and praying such relief as this House shall think just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee of the whole House on the state of the country.
A claim of Daniel Morgan, for sundry articles due to him on account of the expedition against the Indians in
the year 1774, and not allowed by the commissioners, was presented to the House, read, and ordered to be referred
to the committee to whom the report of John Harvie, gentleman, was referred.
The House took into consideration the report of the committee to whom it was referred at the last Convention
to inquire into and report the property of the sloop Agatha; and the said report, together with the resolutions thereon,
being read,
On a motion made,
Resolved, That this House do agree with the said committee in the report and resolutions, so far as the same re¬
late to the said sloop Agatha.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, November 9, 1776.
A memorial from the committee for Augusta county was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that
there is nothing more necessary in the present struggle for the liberties of America than an union of the minds and
strength of its inhabitants, and they conceive themselves and their constituents, who, as well as most of the inhabitants
on the western frontiers, are dissenters, to be aggrieved by being obliged to contribute to the support of the established
church, at the same time that they support ministers of their own persuasion; that they consider this as an unequal
burthen, inconsistent with the spirit of taxation, which supposes those on whom impositions are laid to be benefitted
thereby; that su-ch partial discriminations tend to imbitter the minds of those who are thus imposed upon, and to create
discords, ever attendant on such unequal treatment; and praying such speedy and immediate relief as may best corres¬
pond with Christian liberty, and those noble sentiments which should animate every virtuous American.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To establish warehouses at the head of Potowmack creek, Jor
the reception of military stores; and that Mr. Carter, Mr. Brent, and Mr. Fitzhugh, do prepare and bring in the
same.
Ordered, That the Committee of Publick Claims be discharged from proceeding on the petition of Champion
Travis, and that the same be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Ordered, That the Committee for Religion be discharged from proceeding on the petitions of several religious
societies, and that the same be referred to the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country.
The House being informed that Mr. Winn attended in custody of the Serjeant at Arms,
Ordered', That he be discharged, and admitted to his seat in this House, on paying fees.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had un¬
der their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to several resolutions thereupon; which be
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again read, and are as follows:
Resolved, That the petition of Philip Pendleton and James Myler, inspectors of tobacco at Walker ton ware¬
house, praying to be allowed for a hogshead of tobacco stolen thereout, be rejected, the said warehouse being at that
time insufficient.
Resolved, That the petition of Richard Hewitt and Elias Hore, inspectors of tobacco at Aquia warehouse,
praying to be allowed for nine hogsheads of tobacco said to have been damaged by the great fresh in May, 1771, be
rejected, it appearing that great part, if not the whole of the said tobacco, has been received into the said warehouse
since that time.
Resolved, That the petition of Daniel Lawson and George Garland, late inspectors at Totuskey warehouse,
praying to be allowed for a hogshead of tobacco supposed to have been stolen thereout, be rejected for want of suffi¬
cient proof.
Resolved, That the petition of Elizabeth Brown, whose husband Coletnan Brown enlisted with captain Morgan
to go on the expedition against the Ohio Indians in the year 1774, and was killed by them, leaving the petitioner,
with two small children, in distressed circumstances, and praying relief, is reasonable; and that the said petitioner be
allowed the sum of 20/. for the present support of herself and children, and as a compensation for the loss of the rifle
in the said petition mentioned.
Resolved, That the petition of Samuel Boush and Goodrich Boush, executors of Samuel Boush, deceased,
praying to be allowed for Cuffey, a negro man slave, belonging to the said estate, who had run away from his master,
was driven on shore in a tender belonging to lord Dunmore, taken by our guards and sent to Williamsbitrg for trial,
and upon inquiry it appeared that he had not been seen to have borne arms, or been active in lord Dunmore*s service,
as was suspected, and therefore was to have been delivered to his owner, agreeable to the resolution of Convention,
but before the petitioners had notice thereof the said slave died, be rejected.
49
Resolved, That the petition of JlrthurJBomh, praying to be allowed for his negro man slave Harry, who was
taken in arpas in lord Dunmore's service against this country, by our troops, and sent to Williamsburg for trial, and
died during his confinement, is reasonable* and that the petitioner ought to be allowed 65/. for the said slave, it being
the sum to which he was valued.
On consideration of the petition of Samuel Rous h, it appears to your committee, that the slave Mercury, in the
said petition mentioned, was taken up and delivered to colonel Charles Scott, and before a court of inquiry, by the
said Scott, and other officers, then present, appeared, from his own confession, and the testimony of sundry witnesses
who were examined upon the occasion, to have been a volunteer in captain Cunningham's company, and had been
seen in arms against, this country, and therefore was by the said court ordered to Williamsburg for trial; that the said
slave Mercury was, together with many others who had been active under lord Dunmore, or borne arms in his ser¬
vice, sentenced to be transported to the foreign West Indies, or the Bay of Honduras, and sold, but before the Com¬
mittee of Safety had an opportunity of complying with the resolution of the Convention thereupon, the said slave died
of the jail fever.
Resolved, therefore, That the said petition is reasonable; and that the petitioner ought to be allowed 551. for the
said slave, it being the sum to which he was valued.
Resolved, That the petition of Joel Cornicle, junior, Thomas Banks, Lemuel Cornick, and William Haynes,
praying to be allowed for their slaves in the said petition mentioned, who had been taken by our troops at the Great
Bridge in lord Dunmore's service, and sent to Williamsburg for trial, and by order of the Committee of Safety,
were put on board^i vessel-commanded by captain John Dixon, in order to have been transported to the West Indies
and sold, which said vessel was taken by a British ship of war, is reasonable; and that the said Joel Cornick be allowed
for his slave Harry th$ sum of 74/. 12s. 6d. being the balance, after deducting out of his value the expense for trans¬
portation, which amounts to 10/. Is. 6d.; that the said Thomas Banks ought to be allowed for his slave Jemmy 42/.
05, being the balance, after deducting out of his value the sum of 11. 15s. the expense for transportation; that the said
Lemuel Cornicle be allowed for his slave Romeo 46/. 17s. 6d. being the balance, after deducting out of his value the
sum of Si. 2s. Hid. the expense for transportation; and that the said William Haynes be allowed for his slave Europe
-00/- 15s* being the balance, after deducting out of his value the sum of 9/. 5s. the expense for transportation.
Resolved, That the petition of Jacob Keeling, praying to be allowed for his slaves Lewis and Bob, in the said
petition mentioned, who had been taken by our troops at the Great Bridge, in lord Dunmore's service, and sent to
Wj/jiatnshugg for trial, and by order of the Committee of Safety were put on board a vessel commanded by captain
j!&hn Diicon, in order to have been transported to the West Indies and sold, which said vessel was taken by the enenaj*,
is r&asonalde, and that the petitioner be allowed for the said slaves the sum of 112/. 55. being the balance, after deduct¬
ing out of their value the sum of 17/. 155. the expense for transportation.
Tjjhe 1st, 2d, 4th, 5th, 5th, 7th, Sth, and 9th resolutions of the committee, being severally read a second timer,
were, on the question put thereon, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the 4th, 6th, 7th, Sth, and 9th resolutions to the Senate, for their concurrence.
The 3d resolution of the committee being also read a second time, was, on the question put thereon, ordered to be
re-committed to the said committee.
Mr. Wilson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To empower the justices of
the county of Norfolk to hold courts at such place as they shall appoint; which was read the first time; and ordered
to be read a second time.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had u$der their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of divers inhabitants of the county of Cumberland, praying that the said oounty may
be divided, agreeable to the lines which divide the two parishes, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of the executors of John Bowdoin, deceased, praying that the negro slaves Reuben
and James, who were employed, under a resolution of Convention, in the lead mines, may be returned, and the hire
due for them paid to the petitioners, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of David Davies, praying that the sum of 500/. may be advanced, to enable him to
erect proper works for carrying on a linen and woollen manufactory, be rejected.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the first
resolution; and that the Governour be desired to take proper measures for the delivery of the slaves Reuben and James
to the executors of John Bowdoin, deceased, in the county of Northampton, pursuant to the second resolution.
An engrossed bill, To revive the late laws relating to the inspection of tobacco, with amendments, was read
a third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be, J3 bill for reviving several publick warehouses for the
reception of tobacco, and other purposes; and that Mr. Braxton carry the same to the Senate, for their concurrence.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee of the whole House, reported, that the committee had, according to order,
had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to several resolutions thereupon; which he read
in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again read, and are as follows:
1 13
50
Resolved, That the harbours of Portsmouth, on Elizabeth river, of Cherrystones, in the county of Northamp.
ton, and of Hampton, ought to be fortified with such works as will render them secure from the enemy's vessels
of war.
Resolved, That such posts on the river York which by proper works may be rendered capable of stopping the
passage of the enemy's vessels of war up the said river ought also to be fortified with such works as may effect that
purpose; and that the same, as well as the works at Portsmouth, should be made capable of being defended on the
land side also, until aid from the country may be procured.
Resolved, That two frigates, to carry thirty twelve pounders each, and two gallies fit for river or sea service, to
carry four twenty-four pounders and fourteen nine pounders, be immediately built for the defence of this country.
Resolved, That necessary manufactories of cordage and duck be immediately set up at the publick expense, in
order to establish within ourselves certain resources for those necessary articles.
Resolved, That nineteen hundred men, with their proper officers, should be immediately raised for the purpose
of garrisoning the said forts, and that four additional companies of marines should also be raised, subject to do duty
either by sea or land,
Resolved, That for paying the expenses of erecting the said fortifications, building and equipping the said vessels,
establishing the said manufactories, raising, paying, and subsisting, for one year, the marines now in the service of this
Commonwealth, and those to be raised, the infantry aforesaid and the seamen necessary for the said vessels, and for
discharging the publick debts incurred the last year, and defraying the expenses of the civil establishment for the year
to come, there ought to be emitted a sum of money not exceeding 300,000/. in treasury notes of dollars and parts of a
dollar, to be redeemed at certain periods by taxes to be imposed for that purpose.
Resolved, That instructions be sent to our delegates in General Congress to propose to Congress the defraying
out of the continental treasury the expenses of the expedition against the southern Indians; an expedition which, it
is conceived, should be a continental charge, and to procure necessary supplies of money to be sent hither for that
purpose.
Resolved, That the five companies of riflemen heretofore raised in this Commonwealth by the Congress, and now
at New York, be joined to five of the companies directed to be enlisted pursuant to an act of this present General As¬
sembly, and considered as part of the quota to be furnished by this Commonwealth; and that a like number of compa¬
nies, to be raised in this Commonwealth under the said act of Assembly, be taken into the service and pay of this
Commonwealth, and considered as composing a part of the troops to be raised for the better security and defence of
the same.
Resolved, That instructions be given to our delegates in General Congress to propose to Congress that two of the
six additional battalions of infantry lately ordered to be raised in this Commonwealth for the continental defence may
be stationed on the Ohio, for the defence of our western frontiers, and that the said two battalions may be of those
consisting of men to be raised in that part of the country.
The 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th resolutions of the committee, being severally read a second time, were, on the ques¬
tion put thereon, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That the farther consideration of the said report be postponed till Monday next.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, on the bills
Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsyl¬
vania and Henry,—For declaring what shall be treason,—For dissolving the several county and corporation
committees within this Commomvealth, and the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Monday next.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, November 11, 1776.
The House being informed that Mr. George Mason attended in custody of the serjeant at arms, and that he hau
good cause for his absence when the House was called over on the 2d instant,
On a motion made,
Ordered, That he be discharged from custody, and admitted to his seat in this House, without paying fees.
Mr. Faulcon, from the committee to whom the bill To enable the late sheriffs of those counties to act which
have not recommended sheriffs, until new sheriffs can be recommended and qualified, was referred, reported, that
the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had gone through the same,
and made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table,
where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Carter, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To establish ptiblick storehouses
at the head oj Potowmack creek for the reception of naval stores; which was read the first time, and ordered to be
read a second time.
Ordered, lhat Mr. Watts have leave to be absent from the service of this House until this day fortnight.
51
Mr. Treasurer, according to the order of the 28th of October, reported the amendment made by the committee
of the whole House to the bill For the naturalization of foreigners; which he read in his place, and afterwards de¬
livered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again read, and ordered to be re-committed to the said committee.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mui Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House allowing John M'Guire and Charles
Porterfeld soldier pay from the 22d of June, 1775, to the 1st of November, 1776, amounting to 37/. 5s. 6d. each,
also the farther sum of 25/. each, to reimburse them their expenses, and as an acknowledgment of their great merit,
and compensation for their extraordinary fatigue and hardship in a long and painful march to Quebeck, and irksome
captivity there, and for being prevented by their confinement of that advantage which other cadets have had of rising
in the army, and for making application to Congress to reimburse this State the sum of 66/. 5s. 4d. the amount of the
pay of the said John M'Guire and Charles PoHerfield; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House being informed'that Mr. Banister and Mr. Johnson attended in custody of the Serjeant at arms, and
had good cause for their absence when the House was called over on the second instant,
Ordered, That they be discharged from custody, and admitted to their seats in this House, without paying fees.
Ordered, That Mr. Mayo and Mr. Robinson have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Tues¬
day fortnight.
The House proceeded to nominate the several persons to be ballotted for as field officers to command the six ad¬
ditional battalions of.infantry to be raisdd on the continental establishment, and several persons were nominated as proper
to be ballotted for. r
Ordered, That Mr. Starke, do carry a list of the persons so nominated to the Senate, and desire they will lay
before this House a list of the persons who shall be nominated in their House, and to inform them that this House
propose ballotting for six of the said officers at a time, and that the precedence of the officers elected be settled by the
number of votes each shall have, which mode of election they hope will be approved of by the Senate.
^ A petition of Jldam Smyth, rector of the parish of Botetourt, was presented to the House, and read; setting
forth, that he has been three years and a half rector of the said parish, and has not yet received one full year's salary;
that, from the indention of the vestry, the affairs of the parish have been entirely neglected for the last two years;
that it is with great reluctance he makes application to this House, but that the present times leave him no other re¬
source, and that his private circumstances are really pressing; and therefore praying the state of the said parish may
be taken into consideration.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee of the whole House on the state of the country.
Ordered, That no petition or proposition be received in this House after Monday next.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to the order of October the 14th, a bill For
the removal of the seat of government; which was read the first time, and on the question put that the said bill be
read a second time, it passed in the negative.
Resolvhd, That the said bill be rejected.
Mr. Francis Eppes, the serjeant at arms, being too much indisposed to attend his duty in this House, it is or¬
dered that his son, J|r. Freeman Eppes, be permitted to officiate in his stead during his indisposition.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, on the bills
Declaring slaves to be personal estate,— For dissolving the several county and corporation committees withik this
Commonwealth,—For declaring what shall be treason,—For establishing the places of holding courts in the
counties of Pittsylvania and Henry, the order for a call of the House, and for the farther consideration of the report
from the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country, made on Saturday last, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, November 12, 1776.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according c
to order, had under their consideration a petition of divers inhabitants of the county of Mecklenburg, setting forth,
that the vestry of St. James's parish, in the said county, proceeded to lay the levy in money without giving the
parishioners the alternative of paying tobacco, and praying relief; and had come to the following resolution thereupon,
which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and
agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable.
Ordered, That the said committee do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the said resolution.
A petition of William Emery was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in November, 1775,
when the troops were ordered to Norfolk, his ferry boat was impressed to assist the troops in crossing James river;
52
that while the said boat was employed in that service she was taken and destroyed by a tender belonging to the Kin•
Jisher sloop of war, then lying opposite to Jamestown, and praying such relief as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker,
I am directed by the Senate to lay before this House a list of the persons who have been nomi-
nated by them as proper to be ballotted for to command the six additional battalions of infantry.
The Senate do approve of the mode proposed by the House of Delegates of ballotting for the field officers of the
six additional battalions of infantry, and request, that, if in the course of ballotting, any gentleman should be with-
drawn in the House of Delegates, they acquaint the Senate therewith, and the Senate will do the same. The Senate
do disagree to the latter part of the resolution, which relates to fixing the precedence of the officers, as they conceive
it interferes with the power given by the act to the Governour.
The said message being taken into consideration,
Resolved, That an immediate free conference be desired with the Senate on the subject-matter of their disagree¬
ment to the latter part of the resolution of this House, relating to the effect of ballotting for the officers of the six ad¬
ditional battalions; and that Mr. Treasurer do go to the Senate, and request such free conference.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate, equally desirous with the House of Delegates to preserve harmony between the tw&
branches of the Legislature, have agreed to the free conference desired by this House on the subject-matter of their reso¬
lution for fixing the precedence of the officers for the new battalions by the ballot, to which the Senate had disagreed.
They have appointed three of their members managers at such conference, who were ready in the conference room to
meet such members as should be appointed by this Houses _
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Starke, and Mr. Banister, be
the managers at the said conference on the part of this House; and they immediately withdrew.
Mr. Treasurer reported, that the managers appointed by this House had met those of the Senate in the conference
room, and had freely discussed the subject-matter of the conference; after which the managers from the Senate retired,
promising to report what had passed to the Senate, and that the result of their farther deliberation thereupon should
be communicated by message to this House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do recede from their disagreement to the mode proposed by the House of Delegate?
of fixing the precedence of the field officers of the six additional battalions of infantry.
The House, according to the order of the day, being about to ballot for the field officers to command the said sis
battalions of infantry, several other gentlemen were named as proper persons to be ballotted for.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry a list of the persons so nominated to the Senate.
The House then proceeded to ballot for the said field officers; and the members having prepared tickets for the
persons to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Starke, Mr. Prentis, and Mr.
Richard Cary, were appointed a committee to meet a committee to be appointed by the Senate, and jointly with them
to examine the ballot boxes, and report to the House upon whom the majority fell.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson do acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
committee from the Senate in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that the
majority was in favour of Edward Stevens, Daniel Morgan, James Wood, Samuel Meredith, Charles Lewis, and
David Mason, Esquires.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Edward Stevens, Daniel Morgan, James Wood, Samuel Meredith, Charfo
Lewis, and David Mason, be appointed colonels of the six additional battalions of infantry to be raised on the conti¬
nental establishment, to take rank according to the order of their said nomination.
Ordered, That the farther appointment of officers be put off till to-morrow.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of Isaac Smith, praying that the sum of 63/. 16s. halfpenny due to him from lord
Dunmore, might be paid out of his effects in this State, in proportion with his other creditors," is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of Joseph Jones, Joshua Campbell, James Ferebee, and William Burgess, praying
that the sum of 962/. 3s. 6d. North Carolina currency, due to them from John Goodrich the elder, may be paid out
of his effects in this country, after the demands of this State against the said Goodrich are fully settled and paid, is
rcaSonsioic*
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the committee to whom the bill For dividing the county of Fincastleis
committed, that they receive a clause, or clauses, for dividing the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes.
53
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, prepared bills For altering the place of holding courts in the county of Halifax,—For appointing com¬
missioners of Oyer and Terminer for the trial of criminals now in the puhlick jail, and for dividing the county
of Cumberland into two distinct counties; and he delivered the said bills in at the table, where they were read the
first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A petition of Hezekiah Holliday was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that some time in the
month of January last his negro man slave Dick went on board lord Dunmore's fleet, then lying in Elizabeth river,
and about the month of March last the said slave was sent with other negroes, and a white man, to the Ragged Islands
in the county of Isle of Wight, to get stock; but that the guard stationed at that place prevented them and took the
said negro Dicky who was sent to Williamsburgy and by order of the Committee of Safety conveyed to the lead mines,
where he is now employed, and praying that the said slave may be returned, with his hire, or the value of him paid.
Also a petition of John Mayo, setting forth, that some time last fall a valuable negro fellow run away from his
overseer, and was afterwards taken up in the neighbourhood of Norfolk, and put in the jail of that town; that the said
jail having been burnt soon afterwards, the negro aforesaid was put in the guardhouse, and there kept till lord Dun-
more began hostilities, at which time all the negroes confined in the said guardhouse, who were found to belong to
friends of this country, were demanded by his lordship as confiscated, and those who were found to belong to persons
inimical to the country, delivered to them, in consequence of which he has lost the said slave, and praying such allowance
for the same as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of John Pinkney was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that his garden pales, about the
middle of last winter, were entirely demolished by the soldiers stationed at a house just below them; that on his re¬
monstrating with them on the cruelty of their conduct, they returned for answer, that necessity drove them to it, as
they could not at that time procure wood from the country; that he applied to the commander of the forces for redress,
as also to colonel Christian, both of whom gave him notes to a carpenter to have his garden again done up, but shortly
after, considering there might be some impropriety in their giving such authority, they advised him to let the garden
remain as it was, and referred hkn to this House for redress.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country.
A petition of Frederick Woolford was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that he keeps a publick
house in the town of Woodstock, in the county of Dunmore, and that several soldiers belonging to col. Muhlenburg's
regiment were billetted at his house; that he constantly supplied them with three meals a day, and delivered in his
i account to Mr. Edward Sniggers, who would allow him only sixpence per day for each man, by which he will be
greatly loser, and praying such farther allowance as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also a claim of the committee of Henrico county, for sundry repairs done to the church at Richmond, in orde*,
to accommodate the Convention in July, 1775.
Ordered, That the said petition and claim be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
i An engrossed bill To enable the late sheriffs of those counties to act which have not recommended sheriffs,
until new sheriffs can be recommended and qualified, was read the third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be, »dn act to enable the late sheriffs of those counties
which have not recommended sheriffs to act, until others can be recommended and qualified.
Ordered, That Mr. Faulcon do carry the said bill to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That Mr. Henry Taylor have leave to be absent from the service of this House until the 15th of De¬
cember next.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason be added to the committee to jyhom the letter and other papers from the delegates
appointed to represent this State in General Congress, on the subject of the disputed boundary between this country
and the State of Pennsylvania, was referred, and to the committee appointed to bring in a bill For the establish¬
ment of courts of justice.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth,—For declaring what shall be treason,—For establishing the places of holding courts in
the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry,—For altering the rates of the copper coin of this Commonwealth,—For
the naturalization of foreigners, for the farther consideration of the report from the committee of the whole House
upon the state of the country, made on Saturday last, and the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
14
54
WEDNESDAY, November 13, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr. Richard Cary have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next,
Mr. Mams till Tuesday, and Mr. Coleman until Monday se'nnight.
' On a motion made, and the question put, whether Mr. James Wood had a right to sit and vote in this House as
a member for the county of Frederick, after his election yesterday to be colonel of one of the six additional battalions
of infantry to be raised on the continental establishment,
Resolved, That the said Mr. Wood hath a right to continue to sit and vote until he shall accept of a commission
according to the said election.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry to the Senate a list of the persons who were yesterday candidates for colonels
commissions, and decline offering for those of a lieutenant-colonel.
The House then proceeded, according to the order of the day, to ballot for lieutenant colonels of the six addi-
tional battalions; and the members having prepared tickets for the persons to be appointed, and put the same into the
ballot box, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Starke, Mr. Prentis, and Mr. Richard Cary, were appointed a committee to meet a
committee to be appointed by the Senate, and jointly with them to examine the ballot boxes, and report to the House
upon whom the majority fell.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson do "acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
committee from the Senate in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that the
majority was in favour of Christian Febiger, John Gibson, Lewis Willis, John Neaville, Richard Kidder Meade,
and James Innis, Esquires.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Christian Febiger, John Gibson, Lewis Willis, John Neaville, Richard
- -Kidder Meade, and James Innis, be appointed lieutenant-colonels of the six additional battalions of infantry to be
raised on the continental establishment, to take rank according to the order of their said nomination.
The House proceeded in the same manner to the appointment of majors to the said six additional battalions of in¬
fantry, and it appearing, from the report of the committee, that the majority was in favour of William Heath, Abra¬
ham Buford, Charles Simms, George Lyne, George Nicholas, and Holt Richeson, Esquires.
Resolved, therefore, That tho said William Heath, JLbraham Buford, Charles Simms, George Lyne, Georgt
Nicholas, and Holt Richeson, be appointed nrsyors of the six additional battalions of infantry to be raised on the con¬
tinental establishment, to take rank according to the order of their said nomination.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to enable the late sheriffs of those counties
which have not recommended sheriffs to act, until others can be recommended and qualified, with an amendment,
to which they desire the concurrence of this House.
And the said amendment being twice read, was, upon the question put thereupon, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Faulcon do carry the bill to the Senate, and acquaint them that this House hath agreed to
the amendment proposed by them.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To amend an ordinance in¬
tituled Jin ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony; which
was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A bill For appointing commissioners to dispose of the lands and slaves formerly purchased pursuant to an
act intituled Jin act for encouraging the making wine, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to
Mr. Carter, Mr. Prentis, and Mr. Richard Cary.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To amend an ordinance for establishing a Board of Commis¬
sioners to superintend and direct the naval affairs of this colony, and that Mr. Braxton and Mr. Jefferson do
prepare and bring in the same.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth,—For declaring what shall be treason,—For establishing the places of hoi din <* courts in tk
counties of Pittsylvania and Henry,—For altering the rates of the copper coin of this Commonwealth, Forth
naturalization of foreigners, for the farther consideration of the report from the committee of the whole House upon
the state of the country, made on Saturday last, and the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Ordered, That Mr. Page of Gloucester have leave of absence from the service of this House, for the recovery of
his health.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To restrain the operation of the acts for limitation of actions
and recording deeds in certain cases; and that Mr. Henry, Mr. Braxton, and Mr. Jefferson, do prepare and brin?
in the same. ^
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, November 14, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr..-Johnson, and Mr. Simpson be added to the Committee of Publick Claims.
Ordered, That Mr. Curie have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next, Mr. Must
until Tuesday, Mr. Clayton until Wednesday, and Mr. Savage for the remainder of the session.
A petition of the trustees of the town of Manchester, in the county of Chesterfield, was presented to the House,
and read; setting forth, that when the said town was laid off the shore of the river on one side thereof, with a street
or passage on the bank of the said river, was appropriated for the common use of the said town, for landings and the
convenient passage of carriages, except a small lot at the ferry landing, since which several persons have erected houses
on the said common, and others are threatening to do the same, hy which the inhabitants are in danger of losing their
Common right in the said landing places and passage; that under the act of Assembly appointing them trustees of the
said town they are doubtful as to their power of preventing the said encroachments, and therefore praying that an act
may pass to empower the present trustees, or others to be appointed for that purpose, to remove the said buildings,
and all other obstructions which may be erected in the said street or passage.
Also a petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Spotsylvania, praying that an act may pass directing ge¬
neral musters to be held in the centre of the said county.
Also a petition of William Savage, setting forth, that being possessed of the brigantine Success, with her tackle
and appurtenances, lying in the harbour of Quantico, Foushee Tebbs, gentleman, by order of col. George Mason,
did by warrant take and impress for the use of the country all the sails belonging to the said vessel, by which he has
lost^several opportunities of employing the said vessel to great advantage, and praying such relief as shall be thought
just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said several petitions he referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of David Nowten was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in the month of August,
1775, his horse was pressed by the sheriff of Pittsylvania county, to convey Joseph Ray, a criminal from the said
county, to the publick jail in Williamsburg, which horse was appraised by two freeholders, according to Jaw, to 14/.
that the said horse was greatly injured in the service aforesaid, in so much that he was reduced to one half of the value
aforesaid, and praying such relief as this House shall think just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into the mat¬
ter thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the bill Declaring what shall
be treason; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr; Treasurer reported, that the
committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had gone through the same, and
made several amendments thereto, which he was ready to report when the House should be pleased to receive the same.
Ordered, That the said report be received to-morrow.
A bill To empower the justices of the county of Norfolk to hold courts at such place as they shall appoint, and
for other purposes therein mentioned, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Curie, Mr.
Wilson, and Mr. Godfrey.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the committee to whom the bill To empower the justices of the county of
Norfolk to hold courts at such place as they shall appoint, and for other purposes therein mentioned, is commit¬
ted, that they receive a clause, or clauses, to repeal so much of the ordinance directing the mode of electing delegates
as relates to the borough of Norfolk, and for directing the manner and appointing the place for holding election of a
delegate for the said borough.
A bill For appointing commissioners of Oyer and Terminer for the trial of the criminals now in the pub¬
lick jail, was read the second time, and ordered to be committed to the committee of Propositions and Grievances.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees in this
Commonwealth,—For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Pjwsylvania and Henry,—For
altering the rates of the copper coin of this Commonwealth,—For the naiurali^ttion of foreigners, tor the far¬
ther consideration of the report from the committee of the whole House upon-the state of the country, made on Satur¬
day last, and the order for a call of the House, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
FRIDAY, November 15, 1776.
Ordered That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding upon the petition
of Lewis Burwell the younger, and that it be referred to the committee of the whole House upon the state of the
country.
56
Ordered, That Mr. Carter have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Wednesday next, and
Mr. Braxton, Mr. Lyne, and Mr. Edmondson, until Monday se'nnight.
A memorial of Turner Southall was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that on the 5th of February
last the commanding officer of the Virginia forces sent him twenty-four prisoners with directions to provide for them
on the cheapest terms, upon which he contracted with Abraham Cowley to victual them at one shilling per day each;
that he provided guardhouses for the said prisoners, without any expense to the country; that he prevailed on the said
Cowley to provide and furnish the said guardhouses with thirty-two cords of wood at 10s. a cord, without which the
prisoners would have perished; and praying the sum of 16/. the price of the said wood, may be paid by the publick.
Also a petition of William Trebell and William Moody, executors of Frederick Bryan, deceased, setting forth,
that lord Dunmore is at this time indebted to the estate of their testator in the sum of 52l. 12s. and praying they may
receive payment thereof out of his lordship's estate, in proportion with his other creditors.
Also a petition of Robert Watkins, setting forth, that he served on the Indian expedition in the year 1774, under
the command of captain Pauling; that when he came to receive his pay, he was, through some mistake of his captain,
allowed only forty-nine days' pay, when he was entitled to one hundred and ten, and praying to be allowed the dif¬
ference, being sixty-one days' pay.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the counties of Brunswick, Lunenburg, and Mecklenburg, was presented to
the House, and read; setting forth, that they have been informed that one of the funds established for sinking the paper
currency emitted in consequence of the war with Great Britain, is a tax of four shillings on every hundred acres of
land, by which persons possessing poor lands are obliged to contribute equally with the owners of rich lands, and
praying that some equitable mode may be substituted, either by directing each person to pay in proportion to the value
of the land he possesses, or by assessment on the real and personal property, according to their value, or by such other
just mode as this House shall judge reasonable.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of the inhabitants of the town of Alexandria was presented to the House, and read; setting forth their
defenceless situation; that the said town is accessible to ships of war under forty or fifty guns, and praying that they
might be permitted to purchase, at the publick expense, sixteen iron cannon, viz: ten 18 pounders, and six 9 pounders,
to be mounted on two substantial batteries which had been lately erected on advantageous situations in that town, and
which are now completed, with proper embrasures for cannon, directly under which the channel of the river runs,
so that no ship can pass at much more than a quarter of a mile's distance; and that they might also be allowed to pur¬
chase, in the same manner, two small forges for heating the nine pound shot, with a sufficient quantity of ordnance
stores; and farther praying, that out of the two militia companies now in the said town there might be formed one
artillery company, to consist of fifty matrosses, with the proper officers, to be duly exercised at the said batteries twice
a week, and to receive only when on duty the same pay with other artillery companies; which petition had been pre¬
sented to the Governour and Council, and by them referred to this House, as to so much thereof as relates to the
militia companies proposed to be formed into an artillery company.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Mason delivered to the House the following letter of acknowledgment from lieutenant-colonel Christian
Febiger, and major William Heth; which was read, and ordered to be inserted in the journals.
To the Honourable the Speaker and Gentlemen of the General Assembly.
Mr. Febiger and Mr. Heth beg leave to offer their sincere thanks to this Honourable House for so unanimous a
voice in promoting them to the ranks of lieutenant-colonel and major in the new battalions to be raised in this Com¬
monwealth, and to assure this honourable body they shall ever entertain a proper sense of the honour done them; but as
the peculiarity and delicacy of their situation will neither admit of their immediate acceptance, or allow them to ac¬
knowledge themselves liv such terms as they would wish to use, they can only say, that whenever they are at liberty
to accept of their appointments, and once more step forth in defence of their bleeding and much injured countrv, their
utmost abilities, and warmest endeavours, shall ever be fully exerted in preserving that honour which the Virginians
have, in every instance, during the present contest, most justly acquired.
CHRISTIAN FEBIGER.
av. « v . , , , . WILLIAM HETH.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Braxton reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, but not having time to go through the same,
had directed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther conside¬
ration the state ot the country.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate,—lor dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this Commonwealth —For
establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry,—For altering the rates of
57
the copper coin of this Commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners, for the farther consideration of the
report from the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country, made on Saturday last, the order for a
cgll of the House, and the order for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House upon the bill De¬
claring what shall be treason, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Monday next.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, November 16, 1776.
" Resolved, That the Governour be desired to write to the Delegates from this State to the General Congress, in¬
forming them the General Assembly have, according to the requisition of Congress, passed an act for raising six ad¬
ditional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment; but that the progress of recruiting the said levies will
be greatly impeded by the want of the bounty offered by Congress to the soldiers who shall enlist, as their paymaster
here is unable to advance the same, and the present circumstances of our treasury will not admit of our giving assis¬
tance therein, as we would otherwise cheerfully do, and recommending that the money may be forwarded with the
utmost expedition; and that they be desired to inform Congress this House are apprehensive it will be impossible to
procure arms in this State for the said troops, and requesting their attention to that subject.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerkVtahie, where the same were again
twice read* and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petitions of divers inhabitants of the county of Spotsylvania, praying that the general mus¬
ters of the said county may in future be appointed at or near the centre thereof, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of divers inhabitants of the town of Port Royal, in the counties of King George,
Caroline, and Westmoreland, praying that a publick ferry may be established from the landing of the said town of
Port Royal, in the county of Caroline, to the opposite shore, in the county of King George, is reasonable.
Resolved, That James Bowie, jun. have leave to keep a publick ferry from the landing of the said town of Port
Royal, in the county of Caroline, to the opposite shore, upon condition that he and his successours do set over all
foot passengers ferry free.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That , the commi ttee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill To amend the several ordinances relating
to the training of the militia, and for reducing the same into one act, do receive a clause, or clauses, pursuant to
the first resolution of the committee; and that the Committee of Propositions, to whom the bill For establishing a
ferry across the Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Trent, to the land of Nicholas Davies, is committed, do
receive a clause, or clauses, pursuant to the other resolutions.
A petition of Thomas Fambrough was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in the month of
Jipril last he had a horse impressed by the sheriff of Halifax, to convey a certain Thomas Potter to the publick
jail, charged with horse-stealing; that the horse so impressed was appraised according to law, and by the certificate of
the appraisers appears to have been damaged 40s. and praying to be allowed the same.
Also a petition of Joseph Haynes, setting forth, that in the month of July, 1775, he had a mare impressed by
the sheriff of Halifax, to convey a certain John Johnson to the publick jail, charged with murder; that the mare so
impressed was appraised according to law, and by the certificate of the appraisers appears to have been damaged 40s.
and praying to be allowed the same.
Also a petition of Dionysius Lester, setting forth, that some time in the month of November last his 'ferry boat
at Jamestown was taken into the country's service, for ferrying over the troops going to Norfolk, which boat has
never been returned to him, and praying to be allowed such satisfaction for her, and reasonable compensation for lying
out of the use of the said boat, as to this House shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also a petition of Patrick Gait, setting forth, that before the appointment of a surgeon to the ninth regiment of
regulars, he attended three companies of the said regiment, as physician and surgeon, from the 1st day of February,
to the 28th of *flpril following, which service was attended with a good deal of trouble and expense, as the sick were
generally removed to places where they could be best accommodated, having then neither hospital nor covering, and
praying such allowance as this House shall think reasonable.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the coifimittee had, according
to order, prepared a bill For establishing a town at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley; which was read
the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A petition of the inhabitants of Culpeper county was presented to the House, and read; setting torth, that the
suttlers to the regiments and minute-men sell spirituous liquors to the officers and soldiers at most exorbitant prices;
that the colonel of the regiment having the power of allowing such suttlers as he shall approve of, others dare not sell
58
in the camp, though many would willingly sell the same kinds of liquors at much lower prices; and therefore praying
that the mode of appointing suttlers may be altered, or their profits regulated.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Wilson have leave to be absent from the service of this House till Monday fortnight.
A petition of the mayor, aldermen, common councilmen, and other freeholders of the borough of Norfolk, was
presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that being informed application is intended to be made to this House
to lay off and regulate the-streets of the said borough, they are of opinion such a measure is necessary, yet that pre.
vious thereto they beg leave to represent the distressed situation of the inhabitants of the said borough, and their ina¬
bility to execute any plan that may be adopted; that notwithstanding the various false reports to the contrary, they
have ever been warmly attached to the country and the cause of liberty, notwithstanding which, from misrepresenta-
tion, they have shared the same fate with our open and avowed enemies, in consequence of which they and their famj.
lies have been reduced to the greatest distress; that numberless widows and orphans, who before enjoyed every com¬
fort of life, are rendered truly miserable; that they have been driven from their peaceful habitations into the woods,
without food or raiment, at a most inclement season, whereby many have perished; that such scenes of distress have
presented themselves as would melt the heart of the most unrelenting savage; that most of them have hitherto been a
burthen to their friends, and shared of what little they had left; that they now offer up their prayers to this House,
and look up for protection and redress, as they have been deprived of the means of subsistence by those who were sent J
for their protection; that the greatest part of the town at the first conflagration was wantonly destroyed by the provin¬
cial troops, which they are ready to prove, if necessary, notwithstanding the declaration of the Committee of Safety,
setting forth, that those troops were particularly instructed to support and protect the persons and properties of the
said inhabitants; that they jare fully convinced such licentious and disorderly conduct must be highly disapproved of
by this House; that, from their unfortunate situation, they have fallen the unhappy victims in this contest, while the
other parts of the country have enjoyed peace and tranquillity, and that they humbly conceive so heavy a loss should
not fall on individuals, but be a general charge; and praying their situation may be taken into consideration, and such
relief afforded them as shall be thought just and reasonable, and desiring the attention of the House to the loss they
have sustained by the destruction of the latter part of the town by order of Convention.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Lee, from the committee appointed to inquire into and report the state of the several publick manufactories,
reported, that the committee had accordingly examined into the state of the gun manufactory at Fredericksbitrg, and
had agreed upon the follovving report; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table,
where the same was again twice read, and ordered to lie on the taole.
It appears to your committee, that the several sums of money advanced for* erecting and carrying on the gun
manufactory amount to 3728/. 7s. 5d. halfpenny; that the several balances due sundry persons from the same amounts
to 1865/. 9s 5d. three farthings, which make in the whole the sum of 5593/. 15s. *11 d. farthing; that the amount of
work done and delivered out of the said manufactory amounts to 3903/. lis. 6d and that the articles now in hand
amount to the sum of 2381/. 13s. 4d. which added together make 6285/. 4s. 10d. The balance therefore due thesaid
manufactory appears to be 691/. 7s. 10d. three farthings, as appears by the accounts annexed to the said report.
A memorial of the trustees of the academy of Hampden Sidney, in the county of Prince Edward, was pre¬
sented to the House, and read; setting forth, that a considerable number of gentlemen in that and the neighbouring
counties, convinced of the importance of polite literature to their children and their country, and the difficulty of ac¬
quiring it in their remote situation, have by their own efforts, and the private contributions they were able to collect,
erected an academy for that purpose, which is distinguished by the name of Hampden Sidney, in memory of those
great patrons of liberty and letters; that the rapid growth, and the general reputation into which it hath risen, in a
short time, have rendered it., they hope, an object not unworthy of the attention of the Legislature of lrirginia; that
literature,* at all times ornamental, is now justly considered as necessary to the existence and stability of this rising
Commonwealth, and may therefore claim the encouragement as-well as the protection of her laws.
That they are aware of the expenses that attend a war in the infancy of a government, and commenced under
every disadvantage, wherein we were involved by the security into which our innocence had misled us; but that,
even under the growing load of publick debt, there are reasons which seemed to them to justify and render necessary
the present application. That in the course of human life, and during the ravages of a destructive war, it is very un¬
certain how many of those who now fill our civil and military departments, may survive the calamities of their country;
and that it is a fact well known, and regretted in many counties, that few remain behind capable of supplying the places
of those who shall be torn from the Commonwealth by death or by war. That our resources for education from
Britain are cut off. That the prospect of leaving an extensive republick young and unexperienced, before it hath
acquired stability, to be guided by the councils and defended by the arms of unskilful and unlettered men, is too un¬
favorable to be indulged by any lover of his country. That it may be too late to seek a remedy for the evil at the
termination ot the war, an event that is uncertain, and may be remote. That they do not forget there is already a
college amply endowed, but it is at present, and for a long time may be, too near the scene of danger, and too much
in the midst ot camps, to render its country that service it would otherwise be capable of doing. That if every cir¬
cumstance ot situation and of common opinion were united in its favour, wise politicians will remember that it is dan¬
gerous to entrust so important a power as learning in the hands of a single person, or only a few. That those who
59
are acquainted with the history.of England well know the rivalship of Cambridge and Oxford hath more than once
preserved the liberties of that kingdom, which might have fallen a sacrifice if one of them had possessed the sole pre¬
rogative of education. That besides, they conceive knowledge should be diffused as equally and as extensively as
possible among the people. That their designs carry in them no opposition to any place, or party of men; their sys¬
tem is catholick, and calculated to banish those invidious distinctions, which, however little they may have been felt
under a monarchial government, are improper and injurious in a republick State. That they do not claim to be set on
a footing that will rival the publick seminary which is already established, their publick services not having yet
merited it; they only pray the Legislature will enable them to erect such buildings as are necessary to accommodate
the great number of students who daily apply for admission into the academy, and whose hopes of an education are
likely to be frustrated through the want of room for their reception; and that they may be placed on such a stage
where they may have an opportunity of convincing the publick whether the interests of education are likely to suffer
in their management, or whether their industry and success in the service of their country will be such as to deserve
their future favour and indulgence. That considerably more than one hundred students have already applied to be
received at the commencement of the next session, and that they have the greatest reason to believe that number might
be doubled, in a few months, if it were in the power of the Board to furnish them with proper accommodations. That
they only ask what may be sufficient to furnish the necessary accommodations, upon the most parsimonious plan. That
it is their opinion they could serve the institution better, if the Legislature should be pleased to erect the Board into a
corporate body, and to grant the masters such usual exemptions as are deemed necessary to large literary societies.
That they do not however urge these matters, trusting that the wisdom and zeal of this House for the publick welfare
will perform whatever is consistent with good government, and the more important exigencies of the Commonwealth.
Ordered, That the said memorial be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they inquire
into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To enable persons living in other countries to dispose of their
estates in this country with more ease and convenience; and that Mr. Zane, and Mr. Bullitt, do prepare and bring
in the same.
The Speaker informed the House, that he was desired to lay before them a letter from Dorsey Penticost to the
Governour, with the several papers therein enclosed; which were read, and ordered to lie upon the table.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Braxton reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, but not having time to go through
the same, had directed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next again resolve itself into the said committee.
Adjourned till. Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, November IS, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the hon. Dudley Digges, Esquire, and also a letter from colonel
Christian; which were read, and ordered to lie upon the table.
Ordered, That the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country be discharged from proceeding
upon the petition of William Emery, and that the same be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims.
A petition of Thomas Lawson was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that in the month of July
last he had a waggon and team of oxen employed in carrying provision to the militia at the mouth of Quantico, in
Prince William county; that two of his oxen, worth at least 8/. each, were, whilst in the service, thrown down the
bank of the river, and praying to be allowed for the same.
Also a petition of John Knibb, and Richard Renard, setting forth, that the warehouses at Bermuda Hundred,
where they were inspectors, were broke open in the month of October, 1775, and about 400 weight of transfer tobacco
stolen thereout, for which they have been obliged to pay the proprietors at the rate of twenty-one shillings and one
penny per hundred; that on the night of the 14th of July, in the succeeding year, the said warehouses were again
broke open, and two hogsheads of tobacco stolen out of the same, one weighing 1065 pounds neat, and the other a
hogshead which had been refused and not weighed, for which they expect they shall be obliged to pay the proprietors;
and praying such relief as this House shall think just and reasonable.
Also a petition of John Knibb, setting forth, that in July, 1770, the warehouse at Bermuda Hundred, at which
himself and Thomas Stratton, now deceased, were inspectors, was broke open in the night time, and 436 pounds of
tobacco stolen thereout, for which he hath been obliged to pay the proprietor thereof at the rate of 165. Sd. per hun¬
dred, and praying to be reimbursed by the publick. ......
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of John Hobday was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that at great expense and
trouble he invented a machine for threshing out wheat, which he conceives has been of general utility throughout this
country for which invention a former Assembly were pleased to allow him 100/., which, from the unhappy troubles
that have since prevailed, he has never yet been able to receive, and praying that this House would allow him such re¬
ward for his endeavours to serve the community as shall be thought just and reasonable.
6U
Also a petition of Nathaniel Tyson, setting forth, that he was employed by the committee of Northampton
county, in consequence of an application from the Committee of Safety, and hired by the day to go to Philadelphia
with a sum of publick money to lay out in cannon and other warlike stores for one of the vessels of war; that while
he was employed in this business, and going from place to place in Philadelphia, he lost 450 paper dollars out of his
pocket, whether by accident or otherwise he cannot tell; that he received no reward for taking charge of the money,
being only allowed wages for his labour; and praying such relief as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also a petition of Joseph Carrington, setting forth, that he was appointed a captain in the minute service for
the district of JLmelia, Chesterfield and Cumberland; that he completed his company in September 1775, and soon
after went into battalion duty; that he was in the month of December called into actual service at Norfolk, where he
remained with his company till some time in February, and being very desirous again to complete his company,
which he in a short time effected, he was unavoidably at the expense of 9/. 5s and praying to be reimbursed the said
sum of money.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
A petition of Jacquelin Jimbler was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that his houses in the town
of York, were last winter taken by the officers and soldiers of our army stationed at that place, and made use of as
barracks; that the enclosures, a valuable garden, and some of the outhouses belonging to his said tenement, have been
totally destroyed by the soldiers, and his dwelling-house so much damaged as to put it out of his power to make it a
comfortable residence for his family; and praying the said house and tenement may in future be appropriated to the
use of such part of the army in garrison at the said town of York, and such compensation made him as shall be thought
just and reasonable.
Also a petition of Nathaniel L. Savage, setting forth, that he had a share in the new distillery at Norfolk, which
cost him 550/. although when it was destroyed he valued the same at 800/.; that as he observes by the resolution of
Convention in December last, it was recommended to colonel Howe, the then commander on that station, to destroy
the said distillery, he should not at this time have troubled the House with this claim, as the publick faith, in his
opinion, is in some measure pledged to make good the damage to the sufferers, but that at the time the distillery was
destroyed, they lost a considerable quantity of molasses, for which the said distillery company are indebted, the
amount of which is not yet known, but when ascertained, it is expected will be paid for by the publick; and as some
of the company are gone out„of the country, having left no agents, and time will render a state of the debt difficult,
if not impossible to be attained, he submits it to the House either to appoint proper persons to inquire into and report
to the next session of Assembly the truth of the case as it shall appear to be, or that such other relief may be granted
him as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
A petition of Spence Grayson, rector of Cameron parish, in the county of Loudoun, was presented to the
House, and read; setting forth, that the vestry of the said parish have failed to appoint any collector for the year 1775,
so that he is not likely to receive any part of his salary, which was usually levied for him in tobacco at 12s. 6d. per
hundred weight; that the court of the said county have failed to. appoint persons to take the list of tithables during
the last summer, so that he is likely to lose his salary for the present year without the aid or interposition of this
House; and praying that an act may pass to compel the vestry to collect the former levy, and to authorise and direct
the justices to take the lists of tithables, that a new levy may be laid.
Ordered, That the said petition be referred to the Committee for Religion; that they inquire into the allegations
thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
Ordered, That the clerk of this House do procure a sufficient quantity of parchment to enrol the several acts of
Assembly, and that the treasurer be desired to pay for the same.
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of Hezekiah Holliday, of the county of Isle of Wight, praying that the negro slave
Dick, now employed in the service of the publick at the lead mines, may be returned to him, together with his hire,
is reasonable, and that the said slave ought to be delivered to the petitioner in the city of Williamsburg.
Resolved, That the consideration of the petitions of divers inhabitants of the counties of Mecklenburg and Lu¬
nenburg, be deferred until the third Monday of the next session of Assembly.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That the Goverriour be desired to take proper measures for the delivery of the slave to the said Hezt-
kiah Holliday, pursuant to the first of the said resolutions.
Ordered, lhat Mr. Richard Squire Taylor have leave to be absent from the service of this House, for the re¬
covery of his health.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To establish a town on the lands of Mr. Cuthbert Bullitt, neat
the mouth of Quantico, in the county of Prince William; and that Mr. Griffin, and Mr. Dwell, do DreDare and
bring in the same. > r r
61
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill For appointing commis
sionersof Oyer and Terminer for the trial of the criminals now in the publick jail, was committed, reported,
that the committee had, according to order, had the same under their consideration, and had directed him to report
the same, without any amendments; and he delivered the bill in at the clerk's table.
Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed and read a third time.
Resolved, That Fielding Lewis, and Charles Dick, esquires, managers of the gun manufactory in the town of
Fredericksburg, be allowed the sum of 365/ for directing and superintending the same to this tim,e, and that Mr.
Starke do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To amend the ordinance for providing arms and ammunition
for the use of this colony; and that Mr. Bullitt, and Mr. Starke, do prepare and bring in the same.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, but not having time to go through
the same, had directed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into the said committee.
A petition of Arthur Upshur was presented to the House, and read; setting forth, that some time in the month
of October, 1775, a certain John Goodrich was employed to procure from foreign parts military stores for the use of
this Commonwealth; that he accordingly sent out two vessels for that purpose, but some time after the sailing thereof, <•
lord Dunmore becoming acquainted with their destination, it was thought expedient to convey notice to the com¬
manders of the said vessels, that they might avoid falling into the hands of the enemy; that the said John Goodrich
accordingly contracted with him, on behalf of the country, for sending out a vessel to St. Eustatia, as an express,
for which he agreed to allow the sum of 100/. that he thereupon sent out his said vessel with all despatch, but that
soon after she sailed, William Goodrich, a son of the said John Goodrich, falling into the hands of lord Dunmore,
in order to obtain his liberty, and a restitution of his father's property, which had been seized, agreed to countermand
the orders given the said vessel, by which means she returned in ballast, after having waited a considerable time; and
praying to be allowed the aforesaid sum of 100/. either out of the estate of the said John Goodrich, or by the publick,
as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also, a petition of William Roberts, of the county of Halifax, setting forth, that the General Assembly passed
%n act establishing a ferry over Dan river, from his land to the land of Henry Gaines, now the property of Roger
Shackleford, which ferry was then beneficial to him, and convenient to the inhabitants for the purpose of crossing the
said river to court, but that since the division of the said county the said ferry has become burthensome to him, and
useless to the publick, and praying that the said ferry may be discontinued.
Also, a petition of James Higgin, setting forth, that having engaged in the service of this State, under captain
Croghan, he was taken very sick in the city of Williamsburg, and continued so for a considerable time; that proper
medicines could not be procured from the surgeon of the regiment to which he belonged, and that he was therefore
under the necessity of getting them elsewhere, and praying such relief as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also, a petition of Jacob Bousman, setting forth, that the establishing a ferry from his land on the Monongahela
river, across the said river to the town of Pittsburg, will be of publick utility, and praying that an act may pass for
that purpose.
Also, a petition of Isaac Zane, setting forth, that lord Dunmore is justly indebted to him in the sum of 21/.
19 s. §d. and praying to be allowed satisfaction for the same out of his lordship's estate, in proportion with his other
creditors. *
Also, a memorial of Henry Field, jun. setting forth, that he has been duly appointed to receive certain quit rents
due to the right honourable Thomas lord Fairfax, in the counties of Prince William, Fauquier, and Culpeper, for
which he has applied to those who enjoy the benefit of his lordship's lands, but without being able to receive the same;
that several, taking advantage of the times, not only withhold the quit-rents they are accountable for, but incite others
to follow their example; that having acquainted his lordship therewith, he was directed by him to lay the matter before
this House, and as his lordship has in no instance forfeited the confidence of his countrymen, it is hoped the protection
of his property will be regarded in the same light as the interest of any other individual belonging to the State; and
praying such redress as shall be thought just and reasonable.
Also, a memorial of Samuel Washington, Robert Rutherford, and William Booth, setting forth, that in obe¬
dience to'a resolve of Convention, passed on the 15th day of June, 1776, they did, after publick notice given, proceed
on the 4th day of October ensuing, to rent out the lands, and to make sale of the personal estate of the earl of Dun¬
more within the county of Berkeley, in the manner following, to wit:
11 negroes, four of them children, - „ - " "
21 cattle, five of them calves, together with 35 hogs, old and young, at large in the woods,
Indian corn, rye and hay, on the farm, - - - -
, 2 old horses, and one mare, ' . " , , . , " •,
2 old feather beds, and other household furniture and kitchen utensils,
A waggon and geer, with other utensils of husbandry,
£ 852 00 00
66 17 02
77 00 00
29 08 00
27 13 00
65 07 00
Total amount,
16
£1118 05 02
62
The above sum secured as hereafter described:
Bills taken, with approved security, payable to the Treasurer for the time being, on twelve
months, for - ~ " " - - 1113 06 06
Cash received, and ready to pay into the Treasury, - - _ 3 19 08
Stands in account, - - - " - - 19 00 00
Total, £ 1118 05 02
That they at the same time rented out the farm known by the name of Mount Charlotte, together with the saw
mill thereon, to Mr. Edward Snickers, for three years, commencing the 4th day of October aforesaid, at the yearly
rent of 41/.
That they farther represent, that George, an African slave, about 50 years of age, remains unsold, they not being
well advised of the title to the said slave, as he, in the best manner he could explain himself, only informed them that
he had fled for protection to lord Dunmore while in Williamsburg, from the exceeding cruelty of a former master,
which, from the marks of violence on him, is too evident; and farther, that two small pieces of ordnance are also un¬
sold, they not being perfectly informed of the real owner.
Ordered, That the said several petitions do lie on the table.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, who are to prepare, and bring in a bill For obliging
the vestry of the parish of St. James, in the county of Mecklenburg, to settle a rate at which the inhabitants may
pay their parish levies in tobacco, do receive a.clause or clauses, for extending the like remedy to other parishes in
similar circumstances.
The several orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to
be personal estate—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this commonwealth—
For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry—For altering the rates
of the copper coin of this commonwealth—For the naturalization of foreigners-, for the farther consideration of
the report from the committee of the whole House upon the state of the country, made on Saturday the 9th of October
last, the order for a call of the House, and the order for receiving the report of the whole House upon the bill Declar¬
ing what shall be treason, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Wednesday next.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, November 19, 1776. .
The petitions of Arthur XJpshaw, Jacob Bousman, Isaac Zane, William Roberts, and Henry Field, jun. pre¬
sented yesterday, and ordered to lie on the table, being read,
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances; that they
inquire into the allegations thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon, to the House.
The petitions of James Biggin and of Samuel Washington, Robert Rutherford and William Booth, pre¬
sented yesterday, and ordered to lie on the table, being also read,
Ordered, That the said several petitions be referred to the Committee of Publick Claims; that they inquire into
the matters thereof, and report the same, with their opinion thereupon to the House.
' An engrossed bill For appointing commissioners of Oyer and Terminer for the trial of the criminals now in
the publick jail, was read a third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Jefferson carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That Mr. Fitzhugh have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday se'nnight.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason, the members for Frederick, Hampshire, and Bedford, be added to the committee
to whom the bill For dividing the county o/Fincastle into two distinct counties, was committed.
A bill For altering the place of holding courts in the county of Halifax, was read a second time, and ordered
to be committed to Mr. Henry and the members for Halifax.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the said committee, that they receive a clause or clauses, to enable the she¬
riff of the said county of Halifax to hold elections, and the commanding officer of the militia to hold general musters,
at some convenient place on the lands of John Boram, till the courthouse shall be built.
An engrossed bill To revive and amend an act intituled An act for the inspection of pork, beef, flour, tar,
pitch, and turpentine, was read a third time, and the blanks therein'filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be An act for the inspection of pork, beef, flour, tar,
pitch and turpentinei and that Mr. Acrill do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee to take into their farther conside¬
ration the state of the country, and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Starke
reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had
come to the following resolutions thereupon, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's
table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
68
Resolved, As the opinion of this committee, that all and every act or statute, either of the parliament of England
or of Great Britain, by whatever title known or distinguished, which renders criminal the maintaining any opinions
in matters of religion, forbearing to repair to church, or the exercising any mode of worship whatsoever, or which
prescribes punishments for the same, ought to be declared henceforth of no validity or force within this Commonwealth.
Resolved, That so much of an act of Assembly made in the 4th year of the reign of queen Anne, intituled An
act for the effectual suppression of vice, and restraint and punishment of blasphemous, wicked, and dissolute
persons, as inflicts certain additional penalties on any person or persons convicted a second time of any of the offences
described in the first clause of the said act, ought to be repealed.
Resolved, That so much of the petitions of the several dissenters from the church established by law within this
Commonwealth, as desires an exemption from all taxes and contributions whatever towards supporting the said church
and the ministers thereof, or towards the support of their respective religious societies in any other way than them¬
selves shall voluntarily agree, is reasonable.
Resolved, That although the maintaining any opinions in matters of religion ought not to be restrained, yet that
publick assemblies of societies for divine worship ought to be regulated, and that proper provision should be made for
continuing the succession of the clergy, and superintending their conduct.
Resolved, That the several acts of Assembly, making provision for the support of the clergy, ought to be repealed,
securing to the present incumbents all arrears of salary, and to the vestries a power of levying for performance of
their contracts.
Resolved, That a reservation ought to be made to the use of the said church, in all time coming, of the several
tracts of glebe lands already purchased, the churches and chapels already built for the use of the several parishes, and
of all plate belonging to or appropriated to the use of the said church, and all arrears of money or tobacco arising from
former assessments; and that there should be reserved to such parishes as have received private donations, for the sup¬
port of the said church and its ministers, the perpetual benefit of such donations.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke, Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Tazewell, Mr. Mason, Mr.
Madison, Mr. M1 Dowell, Mr. Gordon, Mr. Zane, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Henry, Mr. Griffin, Mr. Lewis, Mr.
Simpson, Mr. Read, and Mr. Johnson, do prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the said resolutions.
Ordered, That Mr. Ruffin have leave of absence from the service of this House till Tuesday se'nnight, Mr.
Thornton till Monday fortnight, and Mr. Kenn6r and Mr. West for the recovery of their health.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, November 20, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr. Washington have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the
session.
The House took into their consideration the report of the committee on the gun manufactory in the town of Fre¬
dericksburg, made on Saturday last, and ordered to lie on the table; and the said report was again read and agreed to.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That it be an instruction to our Delegates in Congress that they use their endeavours to oblige all per¬
sons who now are, or hereafter may be, intrusted with any sum or sums of money under the appointment of the Ge¬
neral Congress, to give sufficient security for the performance of their several trusts, and faithful accounting for the
same.
Ordered, That Mr. Gray do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Starke, from the Committee of Religion, presented, according to order, a bill To enable the vestry of the
parish of Botetourt to purchase lands for a glebe, and for other purposes therein mentioned; which was read the
first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Ordered, That Mr. Watkins have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Saturday se'nnight.
Mr. Henry, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To restrain the operation of
the acts for limitations of actions, and recording deeds, in certain cases; which was read the first time, and ordered
to be read a second time. . _ , TT . • . . , . ,
Ordered, That Mr. Simpson have leave to be absent from the service of this House tor the remainder of the
session.
Mr. Starke, from the committee to whom the petition of John Hobday was referred, reported, that the com¬
mittee had according to order, had under their consideration the said petition, and had come to several resolutions
thereupon;' which he°read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
rea^'Resolved^Tl^lt scf much of the said petition as prays an allowance for spirits provided for the use of the labourers
employed in the salt works under the management of the said Hobday, and which appears to amount to 46/. 10*. is
reasonable.
64
Resolved, That such part of the said petition as prays an additional allowance*of one shilling and three pence a
day for sundry white persons, who were at that time soldiers in the service of this country, be rejected.
Resolved, That such other parts of the said petition, as prays an additional allowance of sixpence per day for sun¬
dry negro labourers, be rejected.
The first and third of the said resolutions being read a second time, were, on the question put, ordered to be re-
committed to the said committee.
The second resolution being also read a second time, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. M'Dowell, Mr. Lee, Mr. Curie, and Mr. Terry, be added to the said committee.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That instructions be sent to our Delegates in General Congress to propose to Congress the taking into
continental pay so many of the troops of horse raised in this Commonwealth as shall consent thereto, and to agree that
the expenses already incurred thereby shall be a continental charge.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House, according to the order of the day, resumed the consideration of the report of the committee of the
whole House made on Saturday the 9th instant, and the 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th resolutions of the committee,
being again read, were, on the question severally put thereon, amended, and agreed to, as follows:
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee that two battalions of infantry, with their proper officers, should
be immediately raised for the purpose of garrisoning the said forts.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, that for defraying the expenses of erecting the said fortifica¬
tions;, building and equipping the said vessels, establishing the said manufactory, raising, paying, and subsisting for
one year the marines now in the service of this Commonwealth, the infantry aforesaid, and the seamen necessary for
the said vessels, and for discharging the publick debts incurred the last year, and defraying the expenses of the civil
establishment for the year to come, there ought to be emitted a sum of money not exceeding 350,000/. in treasury
notes, of dollars and parts of a dollar, to be redeemed at certain and convenient periods by taxes to be imposed for that
purpose.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, that instructions be sent to our Delegates in General Congress
to propose to Congress the defraying out of the continental treasury the expenses of the expedition against the southern
Indians, an expedition which it is conceived should be a continental charge, and to procure necessary supplies of
money to be sent hither for that purpose.
Resolved, That the five companies of riflemen heretofore raised in this Commonwealth, and now at New York,
be joined to five of the companies directed to be enlisted pursuant to an act of this present General Assembly, and con¬
sidered as part of the quota to be furnished by this Commonwealth; and that a like number of companies, to be raised
in this Commonwealth under the said act of Assembly, be taken into the service and pay of this Commonwealth, and
considered as composing a part of the troops to be raised for the better security and defence of the same.
Resolved, That instructions be given to our Delegates in General Congress to propose to Congress that two of the
six additional battalions of infantry lately ordered to be raised in this Commonwealth for the continental defence, may
be stationed on the western frontiers, for the defence thereof, and that the said two battalions may be of those con¬
sisting of men to be raised in that part of the country.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the 7th and 9th of the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence,
and that Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Mason, Mr Bullitt, Mr. Starke, and Mr. Gray, do prepare and bring
in a bill pursuant to the other resolutions, and also pursuant to the four resolutions of the said committee agreed to by
the House on Saturday, the 9th instant. °
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees ivithin
this Commonwealth,—For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry,—
For altering the rates of the copper coin of this Commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners, the
order for a call of the House, and the order for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House upon the
bill Declaring what shall be treason, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, November 21, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr. Tarllon Fleming, and Mr. Wilkinson, have leave to be absent from the service of this
House until Monday se'nnight.
Ordered, That the Treasurer be desired, at the publick expense, to furnish each of the door-keepers of the Gene¬
ral Assembly with a decent suit of clothes
A bill For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Stafford and King George, was read a
second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Fitzhugh, Mr. Jones, Mr. Brent, and Mr. Carter.
65
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from Governour, enclosing one from the President of the General
Congress, and another from Mr. Searle of New Jersey; which were read, and ordered to be referred to the committee
of the whole House upon the state of the country.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, ac¬
cording to order, had under their consideration the letters from the Governour and President of the General Congress,
to them referred, and had come to the following resolution thereupon, which he read in his place, and afterwards de¬
livered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That this committee do highly approve of the steps taken by the Governour and Council in conse¬
quence of the intelligence received from the Hon. the President of the Congress, as well to gain certain information
of the destination of the enemy as in providing for the security of the fortification at Portsmouth, at the same time
to assure the Governour of the entire confidence we place in him and the Council; that in case of the probable ap¬
proach of the enemy, they will exert the powers with which .they are invested by law to call in such farther draughts
of the militia as circumstances may make necessary for repelling their invasion.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lomax.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House instructing our Delegates in General Con¬
gress to propose to Congress the taking so many of the troops of horse raised in this Commonwealth into continental
pay as shall agree thereto.
Also to the report upon the gun manufactory in the town of Fredericksburg, and to the resolution for paying
Fielding Lewis and Charles Dick, Esquires, managers of the said manufactory, the sum of 365/. for directing and
superintending the same; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That the letter from the Hon. John Page, P^sq. laid before the House on the 7th instant, and ordered
to lie upon the table, be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther consi¬
deration the state of the country.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill For appointing commissioners of Oyer and Terminer for
the trial of the criminals now in the publick jail, without any amendment.
They have also agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for reviving several publick warehouses for the reception of
tobacco, and other purposes, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House.
They have also agreed to the resolution of this House approving of the steps taken by the Governour and Coun¬
cil in consequence of the intelligence received from the President of the General Congress.
Also to the resolution respecting the five companies of riflemen heretofore raised in this Commonwealth, and now
at New York.
Also to the resolution giving our Delegates in General Congress instructions to propose to Congress that two of
the six additional battalions of infantry lately ordered to be raised in this Commonwealth for the continental defence
may be stationed on the western frontiers, for the defence thereof; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For altering the rates
of the copper coin of this Commonwealth; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and
Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had the said bill under their consideration, and had
directed him to report the same without any amendment.
On the question put, that the said bill be engrossed and read a third time, it passed in the negative.
Resolved, That the said bill be rejected.
Ordered, That the committee of the whole House, to whom the bill To establish the places of holding courts
in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry, was committed, be discharged from proceeding therein; and that the said
bill be committed to Mr. Talbot, Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Terry, and the members for Pittsylvania.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate, For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this Commonwealth,—For
the naturalization of foreigners, the order for a call of the House, and the order for receiving the report from the
committee of the whole House upon the bill Declaring what shall be treason, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
^ 17
66
FRIDAY, November 22, 1776.
Ordered, That the Committee of Publick Claims be discharged from proceeding upon the petition of Benjamin
Feck, and that it be referred to the committee appointed to inquire into and report the progress and expense of the
several publick salt works.
Mr. Carter, from the committee to whom the bill For appointing commissioners to dispose of the lands and
slaves formerly purchased pursuant to an act intituled J2n act for encouraging the making wine, was committed,
reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had directed
him to report the same without any amendment.
Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed and read a third time.
Ordered, That Mr. Digges have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next, Mr.
Cocke until Wednesday, and Mr. Goode for the remainder of the session.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from George Wythe, esq. with
the proceedings of Mr. John Gibson, on his embassy to the southward, and another from our Delegates to the General
Congress, with a resolution of Congress; which letters and papers were read, and ordered to be referred to the Com¬
mittee upon the State of the Country.
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding upon the petition
of John Crawley, and the memorial of Henry Field, jun. and that the said petition and memorial be referred to the
Committee upon the State of the Country.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Jones.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House instructing the Delegates for this State
in General Congress to use their endeavours to oblige all persons who now are, or hereafter may be, intrusted with
money under the appointment of Congress, to give security for the performance of their several trusts, and faithful
accounting for the same; and he delivered the same into the bar, and then withdrew.
A bill For dividing the county of Cumberland into two distinct counties, also a bill For establishing a town
at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley, were severally read a second time, and ordered to be committed
to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances.
Mr. Henry, from the committee to whom the bill For altering the place of holding courts in the county of
Halifax, was committed, reported, that the committee had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his
place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Starke, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration two petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions there¬
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of William Roberts, of the county of Halifax, praying that so much of an act of
Assembly as establisheth a ferry from his land over Dan river to the land of Henry Gaines, on the opposite shore,
may be repealed, is reasonable.
Resolved, That the petition of Jacob Bousman, praying that a publick ferry may be established from his land
over the Monongahela river to the town of Pittsburg, on the opposite shore, is reasonable.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the committee to whom the bill For establishing a ferry over the Flu-
vannah river, from the land of Henry Trent to the land of Nicholas Davies, is committed, that they receive a clause,
or clauses, pursuant to the said resolutions.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had
under their consideration the petition of Jacob Cunes, to them recommitted, and had come to the following resolution
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said petition be rejected, for want of sufficient proof.
The House took into consideration the amendments made by the Senate to the bill For reviving several publick
warehouses for the reception of tobacco, and other purposes; and the said amendments were read, and on the
questions severally put thereupon, some of them were agreed to, others disagreed to, and to others amendments were
proposed. ,
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to acquaint them the House have agreed to some of the said
amendments, disagreed to others, and to others proposed amendments, and to desire they will pass the bill with the
several amendments as they now stand; and that Mr. Starke do carry the said message.
Mr. Starke, from the committee appointed to inquire into and report the progress and expense of the several
publick saltworks, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their farther consideration the
resolutions on the petition of John Hobday, to them re-committed, and had come to the following resolutions there¬
upon, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
67
Resolved, That so much of the said petition as prays an allowance for ten gallons and a half of rum, at ten shii-
lings per gallon, 138 gallons of whiskey, at 6$. a gallon, with casks and cartage for the same, amounting to 17/., and
64 gallons of cider, at Id. halfpenny a gallon, amounting in the whole to 46/. 105., procured for the use of the labourers
employed in the Gloucester and York saltworks under the management of the said Hobday, and by him delivered
out after the rate of a gill a day to each labourer, is reasonable.
Resolved, That such other parts of the said petition as pray an additional allowance of sixpence a day to the 2s.
a day already allowed him by the commissioners for settling the accounts of this Commonwealth, for the purpose of
paying off the several negro labourers by him employed in carrying on the said works, according to agreement with
their respective masters, and which appears to have been at as low a rate as he could possibly procure them, amount*
ing in the whole to the sum of 124/. lis. 6d. is reasonable.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House was called over, according to the order of the day; and excuses were made for the several absent
members, which were admitted.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this Commonwealth,—For
the naturalization of foreigners, and the order for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House
upon the bill Declaring what shall be treason, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, November 23, 1776.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this'House for paying to Isaac Smith the sum of
63/. 16s. 0d. halfpenny out of the estate of lord Du'nmore, in proportion with his other creditors.
For paying to Joseph Jones, Joshua Campbell, James Ferebee, and William Burgess, the sum of 962/. 3s. 6d.
out of the estate of John Goodrich the elder, after the demands of this State against the said Goodrich are fully paid
and satisfied.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee to whom the bill For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct
counties, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had the said bill under their conside¬
ration, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the
clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the several amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill For establishing publick storehouses at the head of Potowmack creek, for the reception of naval stores,
was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Carter, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Brent.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Puhlick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petition of Daniel Lawson and George Garland, late inspectors of tobacco at Totuskey ware¬
houses, to them re-committed, and had agreed upoft the following report and resolution thereupon; which he read in his
place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, by a certificate of the oath of the said inspectors, that a hogshead of tobacco marked
H. S. No. 5, weighing 1065 neat, was lost out of the lower warehouse, which they imagined had been stolen thereout,
as they discovered where some of the boards of the said house had been broke down, for which said tobacco they have
paid the proprietor thereof the sum of 10/. 13s. as appears by a receipt for the same.
It likewise appears to your committee, by certificates of the examination of several witnesses upon the matter,
-that they used frequently to attend the said warehouses, and always observed the said inspectors to have been very
careful in securing the said houses, and that the locks and bolts thereto belonging appeared to be strong and sufficient
for the purpose.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioners ought to be paid by the publick the said
sum of 10/. 13^.
Ordered, That Mv. Lee do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Resolved, That any five of the committee appointed to prepare and bring in bills For the establishment of courts
of justice, be a sufficient number to proceed to business.
Mr. Starke, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according to
order, had under their consideration the petition of John Hobday, to them referred, and had come to the following
resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was
again twice read, and agreed to. a
Resolved, That the petition of the said John Hobday, praying to be allowed a reward for inventing a machine
for getting out wheat, and communicating to the publick the manner of erecting it, be rejected.
Ordered, That Mr. Burwell have leave of absence from the service of this House until Monday next.
63
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and are as
follows:
Resolved, That the petition of Thomas Fambrough, praying to be allowed for the damage done his horse, which
was impressed by the sheriff of Halifax county, to convey Thomas Potter, a criminal, to the publick jail, is reasona¬
ble, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed the sum of 405. for the same.
Resolved, That the petition of Joseph Haynes, praying to be allowed for the damage done a mare, the property
of John Dudgeon, which was impressed by the sheriff of Halifax county, to convey John Johnson, a criminal, to
the publick jail, is reasonable, and that the said petitioner, as assignee of the said Dudgeon, ought to be allowed the
sum of 405. for the same.
Resolved, That the petition of James Parsons, praying to be allowed as commissary for purchasing and collecting
(by the direction of lord Dunmore) between 30 ar)d 40 head of cattle for the use of the army under his command on
the Indian expedition, is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed for that service 7s. 6d. per day for
10 days, being the time he was employed therein, which amounts to the sum of 31. 155.
Resolved, That the petition of Richard Bean, praying to be allowed pay for 37 days as a soldier under captain
Campbell of the 1st regiment of Virginia forces, which was omitted by mistake of the said captain, is reasonable,
and that the petitioner ought to be allowed the sum of 2l. 9s. 4d. for the same.
On consideration of the petition of Edward Garland, first lieutenant under captain Robert Ballard of the 1st
regiment of Virginia forces, it appears to your committee, that in the month of July last the petitioner was taken
sick in the country's service, and by the mismanagement of the surgeon's mate of the said regiment, who attended
him at that time, he became dangerously ill; that his friends being informed thereof, thought it expedient to call to
his assistance a skilful physician, who recommended it as necessary that he should be removed from the close confined
room wherein he then lay to one more suitable for a person in his condition, which was done; that the expense for
visits, medicines, and lodging, during his illness, which continued six weeks or thereabouts, amounts in the whole to
the sum of 37/. 65. 6d■ which he has paid.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be reimbursed the said sum of
37/. 65. 6d.
On consideration of the petition of Jlnne Cocke, it appears to your committee, that the slave in the petition men¬
tioned was on the 7th day of November, 1775, together with several others, impressed into the country's service by
order of the commanding officer, to assist in transporting our troops across the ferry at Jamestown; that the said slave
in the petition mentioned, together with one other who at that time wrought as a ferry-man with him, were sent to
recover a boat that was adrift, and were taken by a tender belonging to the Kingfisher sloop of war; that the said
slave in the petition mentioned has not since been heard of, but the other, who was taken with him, made his escape,
and returned home.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed for her said slave the
sum of 75/.
On consideration of the petition of William Emery, it appears to your committee, that a ferry boat, the property
of the petitioner, was impressed into the country's service, by order of the commanding officer, to transport our troops
across the river at Jamestown; that although the petitioner repeatedly applied for his boat, yet she was detained by
the commanding officer during the stay of the troops at Edwards's landing; that a few hours previous to their march
from thence, the said boat, with two negroes, were sent to recover another that was discovered adrift in the river;
that a short time after, a boat, supposed, from corroborating circumstances, to have been the petitioner's, with two
hands on board, were seen by some persons on shore to be brought to by the Kingfisher's tender, and the two slaves
taken on board, but the boat let loose. It also appears, that the said boat has not hitherto been recovered, neither has
any satisfaction been received for the same.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed the sum of 20/. Ss.5d.
for his boat.
Resolved, That the petition of Robert TVatkins, a soldier in captain Pauling's company, praying an allowance
for 61 days on the Indian expedition in the year 1774, be rejected, the petitioner having already been allowed by the
commissioners full pay for the time he was in that service.
Resolved, That the petition of David Nowlen, praying to be allowed for the damage done his horse, which was
impressed by the sheriff of Pittsylvania county, to convey Joseph Ray, a criminal, to the publick jail, is reasonable,
and that Samuel Colland and company, as assignees of the said Nowlen, ought to be allowed the sum of 405. for the
same.
Resolved, That the petition of William Brooks, praying to be allowed for a certain sum of money, of the paper
currency of this State, said to have been casually destroyed, be rejected, for want of sufficient proof.
The 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, 8th, 9th, and 10th resolutions, being again severally read, were, on the question put, agreed
to by the House.
The 5th, 6th, and 7th resolutions, being also read, were ordered to be re-committed to the said committee.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, and 9th resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
69
Mr. Curie, from the committee to whom the bill To empower the justices of the county of Norfolk to hold
courts at such place as they shall appoint, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order,
had the said bill under their consideration, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and
afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the ene¬
mies of America in this colony, was read a second time, and ordered tq be committed to a committee of the whole
House. '
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A bill To amend an act intituled Jin act for the better securing the payment of levies and restraint of
vagrants, and for making provision for the poor, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr.
Bullitt, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Terry.
Ordered, That Mr. Lockhart and Mr. Pendleton, be added to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in
a bill For encouraging the making hemp, woollen, linen, and other manufactures.
Resolved, That any five members of the committee appointed to bring in a bill pursuant to the resolutions of this
House on the 19th of November last, on the subject of religion, be a.sufficient number to proceed to business.
Ordered, That Mr. Pendleton be added to the Committees of Propositions and Grievances and of Publick Claims.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this Commonwealth,—For
the naturalization of foreigners, and the order for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House
upon the bill Declaring zohat shall be treason, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Tuesday next.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'-clock.
MONDAY, November 25, 1776.
An engrossed bill, For altering the place of holding courts in the county of Halifax, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Terry do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence. '
Mr. Starke, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill For establishing a town at
the Warm Springs^ in the county of Berkeley, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to or¬
der, had the said bill under their consideration, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place,
and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
An engrossed bill, To appoint commissioners to dispose of the lands and slaves formerly purchased pursuant
to an act intituled Jin act for encouraging the making wine, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Meriwether do carry the same to the Senate for their con¬
currence.
An engrossed bill, For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct counties, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and t hat the title be Jin act for dividing the county of Fincastle into three
distinct counties, and the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes.
Ordered, That Mr. Campbell do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For establishing a Court of
Appeals.
Also a bill For establishing a High Court of Chancery.
Also a bill For establishing a General Court and Courts of Assize; which were severally read the first time,
and ordered to be read a second time.
An engrossed bill, To empower the justices of the county of Norfolk to hold courts at such place as they shall
appoint, and for other purposes therein mentioned, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Curie carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered That Mr. Tabb have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the session.
Mr Starke, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order had under their consideration the petitions of Arthur Upshur< and Nathaniel Tyson, to them referred, and
have agreed upon the following report and resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, that John Goodrich the elder, being empowered by the country to lay out the sum
of 5000/ sterling in the purchase of gunpowder, did for that purpose send out vessels to the island of St. Eustatia ;
that some time after the sailing of the said vessels the said John Goodrich received a letter from his son William,
then in St Eustatia, informing him that 2000/. worth of gunpowder was daily expected to arrive there from Bour-
deaux • that the said John Goodrich, understanding lord Dunmore, who then lay at Norfolk, had got information
respecting the purpose for which the said vessels went out, and would therefore probably intercept them on their re-
70
turn, unless the orders given to the skippers of the said vessels at the time of their going out were countermanded,
agreed to give to the petitioner Arthur Upshur the sum of 100/. for the run of his said vessel to St. Euslatiaf to carry
such countermanding orders, and to take in there any powder, if necessary. It also appears to your committee, that
the petitioner's vessel did perform the voyage to St. Eustatia.
Resolved,, That the petition of the said Arthur Upshur is reasonable, and that he ought to be paid the sum of
100/. by the publick. .
Resolved, That the petition of the said Nathaniel Tyson, praying that 540 paper dollars, which were lost outof
his pocket in the city of Philadelphia, being part of a larger sum he received from the committee of the county of
Northampton to purchase cannon and other warlike stores, may be reimbursed him by the publick, be rejected, for
want of proper proof.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the first resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For settling the salaries of the Speakers of the two Houses of
Assembly, and that Mr. Starke and Mr. Lee do prepare and bring in the same.
A bill For establishing a town on the land of Mr. Cuthbert Bullitt, near the mouth of Quantico, in the
county of Prince William, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Ewell, Mr. Campbell, the
members for Fairfax, Loudoun, and Stafford.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour; which was read, and ordered to lie upon the
table.
Mr. Zane, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To enable persons living in
other countries to dispose of their estates in this Commonwealth with more ease and convenience; which was read
the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, November 26, 1776.
Mr. Wood, from the committee to whom the reports of John Harvie and Joseph Neaville, were referred, re¬
ported, that the committee had, according to order, examined the same, and stated an account of such thereof as ap¬
pear to be just, and had come to the following resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards de¬
livered in at the clerk's table.
Resolved, That the said claims are reasonable, and that the several claimants ought to be allowed the same by the
publick.
Ordered, That the said account and resolution do lie on the table.
An engrossed bill, For dividing the county of Fincastle into two distinct counties, was read a third time; and
on the question put that the said bill do pass,
It passed in the negative,
Resolved, That the said bill be rejected.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to enclose the several resolutions of the General Assembly, giving instruc¬
tions to our Delegates in General Congress, to the Governour, requesting him to transmit the same to the said Dele¬
gates.
The House being informed that the remains of the Hon. Peyton Randolph, deceased, the late worthy Speaker
of the House of Burgesses, were conveying from the city of Philadelphia to this city to be interred,
Resolved, unanimously, That this House, desirous of paying every mark of respect to the memory of the said
Peyton Randolph, Esq. will meet his corpse at the verge of the city, at three o'clock this afternoon, and attend the
interment thereof; that a message be sent to the Senate, desiring they will accompany the members of this House on
that occasion.
Mr. Lee,from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had un¬
der their consideration the petition of Elizabeth Foster, and had agreed to the following report and resolution there¬
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, that John Foster, the petitioner's husband, was on the 27th day of May last,
wounded by a cannon ball at Gwyn's island, in opposing the landing of lord Dunmofe's forces, of which wound he
died, and left the petitioner in distressed circumstances.
Resolved, therefore, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioner be allowed the sum of 20/. for
her present support.
Ordered1 hat Mr. Lee do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, on the bills
Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners, and To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance
for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
71
Treasurer, from the committee of the whole House, reported, that, the committee had, according to order,
had under their consideration a bill Declaring what shall be treason, and had made several amendments thereto;
which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read,
and on a motion made,
Ordered, That the said bill be recommitted to the said committee.
T^_® House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee, and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had gone through the said bill, and made several
amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Ordered, That Mr. Williams have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the
session.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from the President of the General
Congress, and several resolutions of that honourable body; which were read, and ordered to lie upon the table.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, November 27, 1776.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do recede from the several amendments made by them to the bill intituled An act
for reviving several publick warehouses for the reception of tobacco, and other purposes, to which this House
have disagreed, except the 20th amendment disagreed to by this House, upon which they do insist, and tlesire the
House will recede from their disagreement to the said amendment.
They have also agreed to the amendments proposed by this House to the amendments made by them; and he
delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House proceeded to take the said 20th amendment into consideration, and the same being read,
Resolved, That this House doth recede from their disagreement to the said amendment.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to inform them that this House hath receded from their disagree¬
ment to the 20th amendment proposed by them to the bill intituled An act for reviving several publick warehouses
for the reception of tobacco, and other purposes; and that Mr. Starke do carry the said message.
Mr. Carter, from the committee to whom the bill To establish storehouses at the head of Potowmack creek,
was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and
had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table,
where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Starke, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For giving salaries to the
Speakers of the two Houses of the General Assembly; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a se¬
cond time. ,
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill To establish a ferry
over the Fluvannah river, from the land of Henry Trent, in the county of Amherst, to the land o/Nicholas Davies,
in the county of Bedford, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their con¬
sideration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker, ./.»/»
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for the inspection of pork, beef flour,
tar, pitch, and turpentine, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered
the same in at the bar, and then withdrew. , , , , •
A bill For establishing a Court of Appeals, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a com¬
mittee of the whole House. . -j .mi
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A bill For establishing a General Court and Courts of Assize, was read a second time, and ordered to be com¬
mitted to a committee of the whole House. .
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed 'he chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made some progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him
to move for leave to sit again. _
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
72
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from col. Christian, on the sub¬
ject of Indian affairs; which was read, and ordered to lie upon the table.
Ordered, That Mr. Curie have leave of absence from the service of this House until Monday next, and Mr.
Zane for the remainder of the session.
Ordered, That the committee for the county of Elizabeth City do lay before this House an account of the salt
by them delivered for the inhabitants of the several counties pursuant to a resolution of the Convention in December
last. . . , „ , ,
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this commonwealth—For the naturalization of foreigners, and To amend an ordinance intituled Jin ordinance
for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Friday next.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, November 28, 1776.
An engrossed bill, For establishing a town at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley, was read a third
time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Wood carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill, Declaring what shall be treason, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Bullitt carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to issue a writ for the election of a delegate for the county of Richmond,
in the room of Mr. Charles M'Carty, who hath accepted the office of sheriff for the said county.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To amend an ordinance for
providing arms and ammunition for the use of this colony; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read
a second time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for dividing the county of Fincastle into
three distinct counties, and the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes, with amendments, to which they
desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lewis.
Mr. Speaker,,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House, for paying to John Hobday the sums of
46/. 10s. and 124/. lis. Gd. and to Elizabeth Foster the sum of 20/. and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a
General Court and Courts of Jissize; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr.
Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had made
a farther progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move for leave to sit a^ain.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for altering the place of holding courts
in the county of Halifax, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House.
Also, to the bill intituled Jin act to appoint commissioners to dispose of the lands and slaves formerly pur¬
chased pursuant to an act intituled Jin act for encouraging the making wine, without any amendment.
Also, to the resolutions of this House, for paying the sum of 10/. 13s. to Daniel Lawson and George Garland:
and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That Mr. Griffin and Mr. Lee be added to the Committee of Trade.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to empower the justices of the county oj
Norfolk to hold courts at such place as they shall appoint, and for other purposes therein mentioned.
Also, to the resolution of this House, for paying Arthur Upshur the sum of 100/. and he delivered the same in
at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That Mr. Lewis be added to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill For encouraging
the making hemp, woollen, linen, and other manufactures.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a Court of
Appeals, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-tnorrow.
73
The House proceeded to take into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill For altering
the place of holding courts in the county of Halifax; and the said amendments were twice read, and, on the ques¬
tion severally put thereupon, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate to acquaint them that this House hath agreed to the amendments
by them proposed to the said bill; and that Mr. Terry do carry the said message.
A bill To enable persons living in other countries to dispose of their estates in this commonwealth with more
ease and convenience, was read a second time.
> Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed, and read a third time.
Mr. Jefferson, from the Committee of Privileges arid Elections, reported, that the committee had, according to
order, had under their consideration the petition of Arthur Upshur, to them referred, and had agreed to the follow¬
ing report and resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where
the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Your committee find, that the said Arthur Upshur, having several vessels on the stocks, cleared one of them out
for ihe^British West Indies on the 20th day oiJuly, 1775, but that the said vessel was not launched until the 20th
day of August; that on the second day of September, when the storm happened, the vessel had no part of her loading
on board; that the said vessel sailed after the tenth day of September to one of the foreign West India islands, with
a load of Indian corn; that on the second of October following, the committee of the county of Accomack proceeded
to inquire into the matter, and on such inquiry declared the said Arthur Upshur had violated the continental associa¬
tion by sending out the said vessel, and ordered his case to be published in the Virginia Gazette; that after the return
of the said vessel, the said Upshjir (as appears from the minutes of the said committee) denying that he had inten¬
tionally violated the said association, voluntarily submitted the matter again to the determination of the committee,
who, at a session held on the 8th day of January, 1776, upon farther inquiry, were of opinion that he had violated
the said association ignorantly, but that having behaved obstinately, and ill afterwards, he ought to be lined, and they
accordingly fined him 100/. which sum the said- Upshur deposited in the hands of a member of the committee.
Your committee farther find, that the said petitioner hath, both before and since the said transaction^ conducted
himself as a friend to the American cause.
Resolved, That though the committee of Accomack were actuated by the best of motives, yet they erred in proceed¬
ing to impose a fine upon'the petitioner, and that therefore the said fine ought to be restored to the said petitioner, by
the person with whom it was deposited.
Resolved, That the petitioner, having violated the said association through ignorance, and having in other respects
conducted himself as a friend to the American cause, ought to be restored to the rights of dealing and intercourse with
his country.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petition of Edward Garland, to them re-committed, and had agreed to the following report
and resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same
were again read.
Your committee find, that the petitioner was a lieutenant in capt. Robert Ballard's compaby of the first regi¬
ment of the Virginia forces, and that he was at Norfolk during most of the campaign there last winter; that about
the first of July last, the petitioner, then in the continental service, was taken ill at Mr. Andersons in the city of
Williaptsburg, and that the surgeon of the said regiment being, also very sick, and unable to attend the petitioner,
one of the mates attended him for some time, but could not afford him any relief; that doctor Gait, one of the sur¬
geons to the publick hospital, being called upon as a private physician, visited the petitioner, discovered him to be dan¬
gerously ill, and recommended some skilful physician to be immediately employed; that in consequence thereof doctor
M'Clurg was called upon, who, upon visiting the petitioner, discovered he had been mismanaged by the surgeon's
mate, and was near the point of death; that his remaining at Mr. Anderson's, he thought, was very improper, and
that he ought to be removed to some other place; he was therefore removed to Mrs. Starke's, where doctor M'Clurg
Visited him from the 9th of July to the 13th of August, most of which time the petitioner was delirious, and inca¬
pable of doing any thing for himself; that neither the petitioner, nor any person for him, applied to doctor Rickman.
(director of the publick hospital,) to visit him, if such application had been made, he should have attended him, though
he was not obliged to do so; that the hospital was then crowded, and not sufficient room therein for the sick soldiers,
and that it had not been customary to take in officers, but to visit them at their private lodgings.
Your committee fartherffind, that the petitioner has paid doctor M'Clurg for attending him the sum of 21/. 10s.,
Pasteur and Gait for medicines furnished him the sum of 6/. 15s., and Elizabeth Starke for boarding and nursing
him the sum of 9/. amounting in the whole to 37/. 5s.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the sum of 37/. 5s. should be reimbursed the petitioner.
The said resolution being again read, was, on the question put, disagreed to by the House.
Resolved, That the said petition be rejected.
Mr. Henry, from the committee to whom the Treasurer's accounts were referred, reported, that the committee
had according to order, carefully examined and compared the said accounts with their proper vouchers, and having
corrected such mistakes as occurred, find that they are all fairly and justly stated, and had agreed upon the following
report; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice
read, and agreed to.
74
It appears to your committee, that the several accounts of the old treasury are brought from a former settlement
up to the 19th of October last inclusive, on which the balances stand as follows: There appears due to the Common,
wealth, on the account styled the publick treasury a balance of 5771. 125. Qd. halfpenny, on account of the treasury
notes issued in 1769, a balance of 5,78S/. 12s. on account of notes issued in 1771 and 1773, a balance of 28,523/. 18$.
5d. and on account of notes issued in 1774, a balance of 9,603/. out of which the treasurer is to have credit for 28,962/.
a balance due to the fund of old treasury hotes from the several other funds, for the farther sum of 751. 5s. of the late
emission burnt by the standing committee in July last, and for the farther sum of 2,082/. 17s. 6d. now burnt and des.
troyed by us; so that, upon the whole, there appears due to the publick on these several accounts a balance of 13,373/.
0«. 5d. halfpenny.
The new account commencing the first day of September, 1775, and brought up to the same period, stands thus:
It appears to your committee, that there had been issued in treasury notes, under the several ordinances of Convention,
the sum of 447,039/.; that there had been received into the treasury at different times, by orders of the Committee of
Safety, and from several collectors and other persons, the sum of 28,793/. 195. 3d halfpenny, amounting in the whole
to 475,832/. 19.5 3d. halfpenny; that the Treasurer had disbursed and paid on different accounts, arranged under their
proper heads, the sum of 484,750/. 125. Qd. halfpenny, so that on these several accounts there is due to the treasurer
a balance of 8,917/. 125. 9d. but, upon the whole, he is indebted to the publick the sum of 4,4551. 7s. 8d. halfpenny.
The business of the treasury having continued in constant progression from the day to which the said accounts
were closed and laid before the House, the treasurer was desirous that we should examine the accounts of his subse¬
quent receipts and disbursements, which we have done: It appears to your committee, that from that period there hath
been received of one of the signers 960/. in parts of dollars, lately completed, and of several other persons the sum of
8,719/. 135. 10d. farthing, in the whole 9,679/. 135. 10d. farthing, and that the treasurer hath paid on different ac¬
counts the sum of 14,455/. 175. 8d halfpenny, so "that the balance upon the whole in favour of the treasurer, on com¬
paring the accounts referred to your committee with these subsequent transactions, appears to be 320/ 165. Id. three
farthings. For the clearer elucidation of theJhregoing:particulars, your committee take leave to refer to the accounts,
and the general state hereto annexed.
Dr. the Treasurer in account with the publick.
To balance of account publick treasury,
To balance of account of 10,000/. - - . -
To balance of account 30,000/. - - - -
To balance of notes issued in 1774, - - - -
577
12
6
5,788
12
0
28,523
18
5
9,603
0
0
halfpenny
To balance, --------
To balance, -
To cash received since the 19th of October, when the accounts were closed,
Balance,
Per contra.
By balance of account of old notes,
By notes of 1775, burnt in July last,
By notes now burnt,
By balance of new account,
By sundry .pay ments since the 19th of October,
By balance,
Resolved, That the treasurer's accounts d
concurrence.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
Balance,
Balance,
44,493
2
11
halfpenny
13,273
0
5
halfpenny
4,455
7
8
halfpenny
9,679
13
10
farthing
320
16
1 3
farthings
14,455
17
8
halfpenny
Cr.
28,962
0
0
75
5
0
2,082
17
6
13,373
0
5
halfpenny
44,493
2
11
halfpenny
8,917
12
9
4,455
7
S
halfpenny
13,373
0
5
halfpenny
14,455
17
8
halfpenny
320
16
1 3
farthings
70
FRIDAY, November £9, 1776.
- The Speaks- laid before the House a letter from George Wythe, Esquire, informing him of his readiness to obev
the commands of this House, whensoever they should signify to him their pleasure that he should return and assist in
the revision of the laws.
Also a letter from James Mercer, Esquire, resigning his seat as a member of the Privy Council,
f Also a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from President Rutledge of South Carolina, with a letter from
brigadier general Howe, requesting that Messrs. Pinkney and Ladson, officers from that State, may be permitted to
recruit soldiers in this country; which were read, and ordered to lie upon the table.
- Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To amend an act intituled Jin act for raising six additional
battalions of infantry on the continental establishment, and that Mr. Page and Mr. Bullitt do prepare and brine
in the same. b
Ordered, That Mr. Carter have leave to be absent from the service of this House until Monday next.
Mr. Page, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To amend an act intituled An
act for raising six additional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment; which was read the first
time, and ordered to be read a second time.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That this House will on Wednesday next proceed by ballot to the appointment of a Delegate to repre¬
sent this State in General Congress, in the room of George Wythe, Esq. who is appointed a revisor of the laws, and
of a Privy Counsellor, in the room of James Mercer, Esq. who hath resigned, and that Mr. Starke do acquaint the
Senate therewith.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a
General Court and Courts of Assize; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr.
Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had
made a farther progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move for leave to
sit again.
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A bill For establishing a High Court of Chancery was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a
committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee; and after some time spent therein, the Speaker
^resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made some progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him
to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker,
I am directed by the Senate to lay before this House several petitions vfrhich have been presented
to them from the inhabitants of the county of Cumberland, praying that the said county may not be divided.
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House for paying to Thomas Fambrough the sum of 40s.,
Joseph Haynes 40s., James Parsons 31. 155., Richard Bean 2l. 9s. Ad., and David Nowlen 405. and he delivered
the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That the petitions from the inhabitants of the county of Cumberland, sent to this House by the Senate,
be referred to the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill for the division of the said county is
committed.
Ordered, That Mr. Gordon have leave of absence from the service of this House until Saturday se'nnight, and
Mr. Jefferson for the remainder of the session.
A bill To amend an act intituled An act for raising six additional battalions of infantry on the conti¬
nental establishment, was read a second time.
Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Treasurer informed the House, that his indisposition had rendered him unable to undergo the laborious duties
of his office with that alacrity and attention which its importance, and a regard to his own health required; that be¬
sides the form of government having excluded that officer from election to a seat in the legislature, he found himself
impelled to resign the office, lest he should be supposed to prefer his private emolument to the interest of his consti¬
tuents* that he should have resigned sooner, but thought it improper to do so until the more pressing demands upon
the treasury were satisfied, that the publick affairs might not be embarrassed, or before he had fully accounted for the
larffe sums of money with which he had been intrusted; but now that the money formerly raised had been all paid
away, and his accounts examined and passed, he entreated the House to accept his resignation, with his most cordial
thanks for their favour in the appointment. Whereupon it was
Resolved, unanimously, That the thanks of this House be given to Robert Carter Nicholas, esq. for his great
assiduity, care and fidelity, in the execution of his office as treasurer, from which the House reluctantly dismiss him;
76
but as iHnay produce inconveni'encies for him to give up the office immediately, the House desire he will continue
to act therein until the end of this session of Assembly, when they will provide a successour to take possession thereof.
Mr. Speaker accordingly returned the thanks of the House, and communicated the said request to Mr. Nicholas,
standing in his place, who expressed great pleasure in having his publick conduct meet with the approbation of his
country, and made his acknowledgments to the House for the agreeable manner in which they had dismissed him, and
to the Speaker for having communicated the sentiments of the House to him with so much politeness, and added, that
he would cheerfully continue to act until the end of this session, and then deliver up the office to his successour, he
trusted with clean hands, he could assure the House it would be with empty ones.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To appoint a treasurer, and that Mr. Braxton and Mr. Starke
do prepare and bring in the same.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners, and To amend an ordinance intituled Jin ordi¬
nance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, November 30, 1776.
Ordered, That Mr. Burwell have leave to be absent from the service of this House till Monday next, and Mr.
Garland for the remainder of the session.
A message from the Senate by Mr Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate request an answer to their message, delivered you on the 30th of last month, relative
to your resolution for placing the forts on the frontiers of this State under the direction of Congress; and then he with¬
drew.
A bill To enable the vestry of the parish of Botetourt to purchase lands for a glebe, and for other purposes
therein mentioned, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to the Committee for Religion.
The House took into consideration the message from the Senate, of the 30th of last month, and their message of
this day; and the same being read,
Resolved, That the clerk of this House deliver to the clerk of the Senate all papers relative to any bill, order, or
resolution, sent to them for their concurrence; all such papers to be returned to, and lodged with, the clerk of this
House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Bland.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act declaring what shall be treason, with
amendments.
Also, to the bill intituled din act for establishing a town at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley,
with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and
then withdrew.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the resolution of the whole
House on the petitions of the several dissenters to be discharged therefrom, except as to so much of the third resolution
as relates to exempting the several dissenters from the established church from contributing to its support, so much of
the fifth as saves all arrears of salary to incumbents, and empowers vestries to comply with their contracts, excepting
also the sixth resolution; and that it be an instruction to the said committee to receive a clause, or clauses, to make
provision for the poor of the several parishes, to regulate the provision made for the clergy, and to empower the seve¬
ral county courts to appoint some of their members to take lists of tithables where the same hath not been already
done.
An engrossed bill, To amend an act intituled *fl.n act for raising six additional battalions of infantry on
the continental establishment, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Page carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
. . r" ^JarJee^ from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For exempting the different
societies of dissenters from contributing to the support and maintenance of the church as by law established,
and its ministers, and for other purposes therein mentioned: which was read the first time, and ordered to be read
a second time.
The House took into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill intituled Jin act for divi-
ding the county ofYincastle into three distinct counties, and the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes.
The first amendment being twice read, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
77
to bjMhe House ^ amendments beinS a,s0 twice read» were> on the question severally put thereon, disagreed
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to acquaint them the Hou^e have agreed to the first amendment
fiy them proposed to the said bill, and have disagreed to the two last amendments; and to desire they will pass the
bill with the amendments agreed to; and that Mr. Campbell do carry the said message.
rderedj That Mr. Mason, Mr. Cary, Mr. Clayton, and Mr. Russell, be added to the committee appointed to
.prepare and bring m a bill To encourage the making hemp, woollen, linen, and other manufactures.
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton, Mr. Banister, Mr. Fleming, and Mr. Henry, be added to the committee ap¬
pointed to prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the resolutions of the whole House for making provision for the de¬
fence ot this Commonwealth.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To alter the name of the county of Dunmore, and the town
oj h incastle, in the county of Botetourt; and that Mr. Lockhart, Mr. Bowyer, Mr. Tipton, and Mr. Bird, do pre¬
pare and bring in the same. . ■ .
Mr. Lee, from the Committeji of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the petitions of Bennit Tompkins and Jindrew Waggoner, to them referred, and had agreed
upon a report, and come to several resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at
the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and are as follows;
Your committee find, that some time in November last four of the petitioner's slaves, together with several
others, in attempting to get to lord Dunmore, were apprehended and sent to the publick jail; that at the time they
were taken, sundry goods, to the value of twenty pounds, or thereabouts, were found in the possession of Amy and
Rachael, two of the slaves in,the petition mentioned, part of which goods were several gowns, earrings, and other
wearing apparel, the property of Elizabeth Tompkins, whose trunk (in her absence from home,) had been broke
open, and those articles taken thereout; that the committee appointed in December last to inquire into the several cases
of the prisoners confined in the publick jail, reported, that Rachael and Amy, belonging to Bennit Tompkins, had
been guilty of a rohbery in the county of York, and the Convention thereupon ordered them to be committed to the
jail of the proper county, there to remain till discharged by due course of law, but the county jail being insufficient
to secure them, and there being no sheriff in the said county-of York to convene a court for their trial, they were
committed to the publick jail, and before trial could be had, the said Amy wais taken sick with the jail fever, (which
at that time raged violently in the said jail.) and removed from thence to the hospital, where she died of that disorder;
•that the other slave Rachael has not yet been tried for that offence, the reason of which (the publick jailer says he
has been informed) is, that she was not the principal offender, but an accomplice, and was intended to have been made
'•$se of as a witness against the said Amy upon trial.
Your committee find, that the petitioner Jindrew Waggoner was employed by the commanding officer at Fort
Pitt, as an express with despatches to the Committee of Safety; that on his way to Williamsburg, his horse tired,
tand he applied to Benjamin Chapman of Spotsylvania, to hire another, who refused to hire, but offered to lend
the petitioner a horse, provided he would engage to return him safe, or pay him the said Chapman (in case of failure)
the sum of thirty ^pounds, to which the petitioner agreed, and then proceeded on his journey, leaving his own horse
'.in the custody of the said Chapman; that the said Chapman's horse died on his way down, and the petitioner was
obliged to hire another, for which he paid at the rate of ten shillings per day for nine days; that the petitioner has
paid the said Chapman the said sum of thirty pounds for his horse, he refusing to deliver the petitioner his own until
he had complied with his agreement; that the Committee of Safety have paid the petitioner the usual allowance of
nine pence per mile as express, and reimbursed him part of the expense for the horse hire, but did not conceive them¬
selves authorised to allow any thing for the horse that died.
Resolved, As the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Bennit Tompkins is reasonable, and that the
-said petitioner ought to be allowed the sum of 60/. for his said slave Amy.
Resolved, As the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Andrew Waggoner is reasonable, and that the
said petitioner ought to be reimbursed the sum of 30/. for the said horse.
$ The said resolutions being read a second time, were, on the question severally put thereupon, disagreed to by the
House.
Resolved, That the said petitions be rejected.
• Ordered, /That a committee be appointed to examine the enrolled bills; and that Mr. Fleming, Mr. Cary, Mr.
Prentis, Mr. Madison, Mr. Read, and Mr. Page, be of the said committee.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the Committee had, according to order, had
under their consideration the petitions of Anne Cocke, William Emery, and Dionysius Lester, to them referred,
and had agreed upon a report, and come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and after-
awards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again read and agreed to.
Your committee find, that Dick, a slave the property of the petitioner Anne Cocke, was on the 7th day of Novem¬
ber last together with several others, impressed by order of the commanding officer to assist in transporting our trocips
across the ferry at Jamestown; that the said slave Dick, together with one other, who wrought as a ferryman with
him in their attempting to recover a boat that was adrift the morning the troops matched from Cobham, it is sup¬
posed were taken by a tender belonging to the Kingfisher sloop of war, as a boat with two hands were seen about
that time by some people on shore to be brought to by the said tender a little below Cobham, the men taken on board
78
the said tender, and the boat let loose; that one of the slaves, who was supposed to have been taken as aforesaid, has
not since been heard of, but the other, after some time, returned home.
Your committee find that a ferry boat, the property of the petitioner William Emery, was impressed by order
of the commanding officer to transport our troops across the ferry at Jamestown; that the said boat was detained by
the commanding officer during the stay of the troops at Edwards's landing, and although often applied for by the
petitioner, yet hath not been returned, neither hath he received any information respecting the same; that on the
morning the troops marched from that place, two negroes belonging to Mrs. Anne Cocke went in the petitioner's boat
to recover another that was adrift, and it is supposed were taken by the enemy in the attempt, as at that time a boat
with two hands were seen to be brought to by a tender a small distance below the said Edwards's landing, the men
taken on board her, and the boat turned adrift.
Resolved, That the petition of the said Anne Cocke is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed the
sum of 75/. for the said slave Dick.
Resolved, That the petition of the said William Emery is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed
the sum of 20/. 85. 5d. for his boat.
. Resolved, That the petition of the said Dionysius Lester, praying an allowance for the boat therein mentioned,
which was taken by order of the commanding officer to transport our troops across the ferry at Jamestown, and never
returned, is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed for the said boat, and lying out of the use of her,
the sum of 12/.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners,—To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance
for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony,—For establishing a Court of
Appeals, and for establishing a High Court of Chancery, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Monday next.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, December 2, 1776.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to bring in a bill For the dissolution of the several vestries within this
Commonwealth, be discharged from the same.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from Richard Kidder Meade, expressing his acknowledgments to the
General Assembly for the honour done him in promoting him to the rank of lieutenant colonel, and declining to accept
the said appointment.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That the present demand for men in this State to raise and complete fifteen battalions of infantry,
according to the requisition of Congress, and to provide for our own internal defence, will not permit recruiting offi¬
cers from other States to raise men in this until our own levies are completed; and that, notwithstanding our inclination
upon all occasions to assist a sister State, our own necessity compels us to restrain the officers from South Carolina
from enlisting men in this State, and to direct that all officers from other States, who have hitherto obtained permission
to recruit in this, do immediately desist from such recruiting business. And that Mr. Page do carry the same to the
Senate for their concurrence.
The House took into consideration the amendment proposed by the Senate to the bill Declaring what shall be
treason; and the said amendment being twice read, was, on the question put, disagreed to by the House.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to acquaint them that this House have disagreed to the said
amendment by them proposed to the bill Declaring what shall be treason; and that Mr. Bullitt do carry the said
message.
Mr. Talbot, from the committee to whom the bill To establish the places of holding courts in the counties of
Pittsylvania and Henry, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had the same under
their consideration, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
The House took into their consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill For establishing a
town at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley; and the first, second, and fourth amendments, being twice
read, were, on the question put, disagreed to; and the third amendment being also twice read, was agreed to by the
House.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to acquaint them that this House have disagreed to the first, se¬
cond, and fourth amendments, by them proposed to the bill For establishing a town at the Warm Springs, in the
county of Berkeley, and have agreed to the third amendment, and to desire they will pass the bill with the amend¬
ment agreed to.
Ordered, That Mr. Wood do carry the said message.
79
A bill For giving salaries to the. Speakers of the two Houses of the General Assembly, was read a second
time, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their conside¬
ration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
ill at the clerk s table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
The House took into their consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill For the inspection
of porky beefy floury tar, pitch, and turpentine; which were twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That Mr. Adams do acquaint the Senate therewith.
Mr. Adams, from the Committee of Trade, reported, that the committee had, according to order, prepared a bill
For the appointment of naval officers, and ascertaining their fees; which was read the first time, and ordered to
be read a second time.
A bill For exempting the different societies of dissenters from contributing to the support and maintenance \
of the church as by law established and its ministers, and for other purposes therein mentioned, was read a second
time, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into the said committee.
A bill 7b restrain the operation of the acts for limitations of actions and recording deeds in certain cases,
was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Henry, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Mason, Mr. Starke, and
Mr. Fleming.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the reso¬
lutions of a committee of the whole House, For providing for the defence of this country, that they divide the sub¬
ject-matter of the said resolutions into two distinct bills.
Ordered, That Mr. Cralle have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the session.
An engrossed bill, For establishing a ferry over the Fluvannab river, from the land of Henry Trent, in the
county of Amherst, to the land of Nicholas Davies, in the county of Bedford, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be A bill for establishing several new ferries and dis¬
continuing a former ferry.
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton do carry the said bill to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill, For establishing publick storehouses at the head of Potowmack creek, for the reception
of naval stores, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Carter carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill, To enable persons living in other countries to dispose of their estates in this Common¬
wealth with more ease and,convenience, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Zane carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A bill 7b amend an ordinance intituled Jin ordinance for providing arms and ammunition for the use of
this colony, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Bullitt and the members for Spotsylvania
and King George.
The House took into consideration the account of sundry claims stated by the committee to whom the reports of .
John Harvie and John Neaville were referred, and the resolution thereupon reported on the 26th of November last,*^
and ordered to lie on the table; and the same were again read, and agreed to.
■Ordered, That Mr. Wood, do carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners,— To amend an ordinance intituled Jin ordinance
for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony,—For est-ablishing a Court of
Appeals, For establishing a High Court of Chancery, and For establishing a General Court and Courts qf
Assize, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, December 3, 1776.
Resolved That this House will to-morrow proceed by ballot to the appointment of a major commandant to the
six troons of horse raised in this Commonwealth, and of a lieutenant colonel in the room of Richard Kidder Meade,
Esq. who hath resigned the said appointment; and that Mr. Starke, and Mr. Tazewell, do acquaint the Senate
thereulhBullitt, from the committee to whom the bill To amend an ordinance for providing arms and ammuni¬
tion for the use of this colony, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their
80
consideration the said bill, and had made an amendment thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
On the question put, that the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time,
It passed in the negative,
Resolved, That the said bill be rejected.
For expediting the enlistment of the six new battalions directed to be raised for continental service,
Resolved, That the Treasurer of this Commonwealth do advance and pay on the order of brigadier general Lewis,
the bounty money allowed by Congress to each non-commissioned officer and soldier, and also so much as is allowed
for recruiting expenses, the whole to be replaced in the treasury so soon as may be convenient to the continental pay¬
master, or such other person as may be authorised by the General Congress.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, to whom the bill For dividing the county
of Cumberland into two distinct counties, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had
under their consideration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and af¬
terwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
An engrossed bill, For giving salaries to the Speakers of the two Houses of the General Assembly, was read
the third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Starke carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For better carrying on the works at the lead mines; and that
Mr. Braxton, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Adams, Mr. Talbot, Mr. Campbell, and Mr. Lynch, do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, presented, according to order, a bill To em¬
power the vestries of the parish of St. James and Amherst to fix the rate of paying the levies thereof in tobacco;
which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To make provision for de¬
fraying the expenses of erecting fortifications, and other purposes; which was read the first time, and ordered tg
be read a second time.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had un¬
der their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which
he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and
agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of WTUtam Blaikley, praying to be allowed for the damage done his horses which
were impressed to convey criminals from Pittsylvania to the publick jail, is reasonable, and that the petitioner be
allowed the sum of 40s. for the same.
Resolved, That the petition of William FPFarlin, praying to be allowed for his services as superintendent of
waggons on the expedition under lord Dunmore, is reasonable, and that the petitioner be allowed soldier's pay, being
Is. 6d. per day, for 159 days, the time he was employed in that service, which amounts to the sum of 11/. 18s. 6a.
Resolved, That the petition of James Higgin, praying to be allowed the expense he was at in employing a phy¬
sician to attend him when he was sick in the continental service, be rejected.
Resolved, That the memorial of Turner Southall, praying to be allowed for 32 cords of wood furnished the pri¬
soners sent to Richmond by the commanding officer of the Virginia forces, is reasonable, and that the memorialist
be allowed the-sum of 16/. for the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the 1st, 2d, and 4th of the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a
High Court of Chancery; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke re¬
ported,-that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had made several
amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
(\ The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill Fbr exempting the
"different societies of dissenters from contributing to the support and maintenance of the church as by law estab¬
lished and its ministers, and for other purposes therein mentioned; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made a considerable progress therein, but not having time to go through the same, had di¬
rected him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees ivithin
this Cornmonivealth,—For the naturaliza tion of foreigners,—To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance
for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony,—For establishing a Court of
Appeals, and For establishing a General Court and Courts of Assize, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
31
WEDNESDAY, December 4, 1776.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to amend an act intituled Jin act for raising
additional battalions of infantry on the continental establishment.
They have also agreed to ballot for a Delegate to represent this State in General Congress, in the room of George
Wythe, Esq. of a Privy Counsellor, in the room of James Mercer, Esq. of a lieutenant colonel, in the room of
Mchard Kidder Meade, Esq and of a major commandant of horse, agreeable to the resolutions of this House; and
he delivered in the said bill at the bar, and then withdrew.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the officers of the minute battalion at Portsmouth, desiring they
might be formed, as they now stand, into one of the new colonial battalions; which being read,
. * Resolved, That it be an instruction to the persons appointed to prepare and bring in a bill pursuant to the several
resolutions For making farther provision for the internal security and defence of the country, that they provide
for employing in the two battalions to be raised, the several officers in the two battalions of minute men and volunteers
formerly called into duty for the assistance of North Carolina, and since employed in the service of this common¬
wealth, who shall be willing to enter into the new battalions in their present rank.
Mr. Bullitt, from the committee to whom the bill To amend the act intituled Jin act for better securing the
payment of levies and restraint of vagrants, and for making provision for the poor, was committed, reported,
that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had made several amend¬
ments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
The House, according to the order of the day, being about to ballot for a Delegate to represent this State in
General Congress, a Privy Counsellor, a Lieutenant Colonel in the room of Richard Kidder Meade, and of a Major
Commandant of horse, several gentlemen were nominated as proper persons to be ballotted for.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke, Mr. Carter, Mr. Tazewell, and Mr. Braxton, do severally carry lists of the per¬
sons so nominated to.the Senate.
' Several messages from the Senate by Mr. Stevens, Mr. Lee, and Mr. Matthews, informing the House of the
<persons who had been nominated in the Senate as proper to be ballotted foL
The House then proceeded by ballot to the appointment of a Delegate to represent this State in General Congress;
and the members having prepared tickets for the person to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box, Mr.
Jefferson, Mr. Curie, Mr. Tazewell, and Mr. Prentis, were appointed a committee to meet a committee to be ap¬
pointed by the Senate, and jointly with them to examine the ballot boxes, and report to the House upon whom the
Majority fell.
> % Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after «ome time returned into the House, and reported, they had met a com¬
mittee from the Senate in the conference room, and had, jointly with them, examined the ballot boxes, and that the
majority was in favour of Mann Page, jun. Esq. of Spotsylvania.
Resolved, therefore, That the said Mann Page, Esq. be appointed a Delegate to represent this State in General
Congress, in the room of George Wythe, esq., who is nevertheless empowered to continue to act in Congress until
the said Mann Page shall take his seat therein.
Ordered, That Mr. Jefferson do carry the said resolution to the Senate, and desire their concurrence to so much
thereof as'relates to George Wythe, Esq., his continuing to act in Congress.
- The House proceeded in the same manner to the appointment of a Privy Counsellor, and it appearing from the
report of the committee appointed to examine the ballot boxes, that the majority was in favour of David Jameson, Esq.
Resolved, therefore, That the said David Jameson, Esq. be appointed a member of the Privy Council, in the
room of James Mercer, Esq. _
*•' The House proceeded in the same manner to the appointment of a Lieutenant Colonel, and it appearing from the
report of the committee appointed to examine the ballot boxes, that the majority was in favour of George Baylor, Esq.
• Resolved, therefore, That the said George Baylor, Esq. be appointed a Lieutenant Colonel, in the room of
Richard Kidder Meade, Esquire. „ ru
' The House proceeded in the same manner to the appointment of a Major Commandant of the six troops ot horse
Hised in this Commonwealth, and it appearing from the report of the committee, that the majority was in favour of
Theodorick Bland, jun. Esq. r •, , f
Resolved, therefore, That the said Theodorick Bland, jun. Esq. be appointed Major Commandant of the six
troops of horse raised in this Commonwealth.
r V A message from the Senate by Mr. Cabell.
^ The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House respecting the officers of other States
recruiting in this, with an amendment, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same
in at the bar, and then withdrew.
82
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a hill For establishing a Court of
Admiralty, also a bill For better regulating the proceedings of the county courts; which was read the first time,
and ordered to be read a second time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker, .
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House for paying 100/. to Jlrthur Upshur,
and restoring him to the favour of his country.
Also to the resolutions for paying to Anne Cocke 751., to Dionysius Lester 12/., and William. Emery 20/. 8,?..
5d., and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That it be an instruction to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill For making far¬
ther provision for the internal security and defence of this country, that they receive a clause, or clauses, autho¬
rising the Governour, with the advice of the Privy Council, to provide a magazine of provisions sufficient for the
subsistence of 10,000 men at least in the course of the next year, exclusive of what may be necessary for the regular
troops which may be in the pay of this Commonwealth.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill For the trial of offences committed out of this Commonwealth;
and that Mr. Jefferson, Mr. Bullitt, and Mr. Mason, do prepare and bring in the same.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For exempting the
different societies of dissenters from contributing to the support and maintenance of the church as by law estab¬
lished, and its ministers, and for other purposes therein mentioned; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in
at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Wood, from the committee to whom the reports of John Harvie and John Neaville were referred, reported,
that the committee had, according to order, examined such of the claims against the publick on account of the late
expedition against the Indians, as remained unsettled, and had revised those that had been already settled in West
Jlugusta, and had made a state of such claimants as appear to have been allowed sufficient by the commissioners, and
of others who have failed to produce satisfactory proof in support of their claims, and had come to the following reso¬
lution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same was
again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said claims be rejected.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate,—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth,—For the naturalization of foreigners,—To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance
for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony,—For establishing a Court of
Appeals, and For establishing a General Court and Courts of A Hze, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off* till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, December 5, 1776.
An engrossed bill, For dividing the county of Cumberland into two distinct counties, was read a third time,
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Fleming carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do insist on the amendments by them proposed to the bill intituled An act for di¬
viding the county of Fincastle into three distinct counties, and the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes;
also to the amendments by them proposed to the bill intituled An act for establishing a town at the Warm Springs,
in the county of Berkeley; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the message from the Senate insisting on the amendments by them proposed
to the bill intituled An act for establishing a town at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley, and disagreed
to by this House; and the said amendments being again read,
Resolved, That this House do recede from their disagreement to the said amendments, and propose amendments
to the amendments proposed by the Senate.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to acquaint them that this House do recede from their disagree¬
ment to the amendments proposed by them, and propose amendments to their amendments, to which they desire their
concurrence; and that Mr. IFood do carry the said message.
Ordered, That Mr. Ball have leave of absence from the service of this House f°r the remainder of the session.
83
f That leave be ^iven to bring in a bil1 To emPower tJie vestry of the parish o/Westover, in the county
°J Uharl®s Clty« to sell the lands appropriated to the use of the poor in the said parish; and that Mr. Acrill, Ms.
rlarwoody and Mr. Faulcon, do prepare and bring in the same.
^ An engrossed bill, For exempting the different societies of dissenters from contributing to the support and
maintenance of the church as by law established, and its ministers, and for other purposes therein mentioned»
was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Starke carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill, For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Pittsylvania and Henry*
was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Jefferson carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for advancing the bounty money to the
non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the six battalions of infantry to be raised in this Commonwealth on the con¬
tinental establishment; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Jefferson, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For the trial of offences
committed out of this Commonwealth; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Ordered, 1 hat leave be given to bring in a bill To suspend executions for debt; and that Mr. Mason, Mr. Jef¬
ferson, Mr. Adams, Mr. Bullitt, Mr. Treasurer, and Mr. Braxton, do prepare and bring in the same.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a
General Court and Courts of Assize; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr.
Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had
made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where
the same were again twice read, and agreed to. -
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to inquire into and report the progress and expense of the several publick
salt works, do also examine and report the account of the salt delivered by the committee of the county of Elizabeth
City for the inhabitants of the several counties, pursuant to a resolution of the Convention in December last.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the claim of William Smith, to them referred, and had agreed to the following report and reso¬
lution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
Your committee find, that some time in December, 1775, the provincial army, being then on their march to the
Great Bridge, lieutenant William Sandford was ordered out with a scouting party, and shot a negro man, for run¬
ning from the troops, althougffhe was repeatedly desired to stand, which negro did not appear to be armed; that the
said negro was the property of the claimant, and worth 80/.
Resolved, That the said claim be rejected.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from the War Office in the city
of Philadelphia, requesting that the light horse in the service of this State may be marched with all possible expedi¬
tion to join general Washington; and the Governour also, in his letter, submitted to the House the propriety of the
masters of the College having the appointment of surveyors to the new counties. Which being read,
Resolved, That, the Governour be desired to give proper orders for the immediate march of the troops of horse
raised in this Commonwealth, with their officers, to join general Washington, agreeable to the requisition of the War
Office in Philadelphia, and to transmit to the said office a list of such articles as the said troops may stand in need of.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Resolved, That so much of the Governour's letter as relates to the masters of the College, their granting com¬
missions to surveyors, be referred to the committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next resolve itself into the §aid committee.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To amend an ordinance
intituled Jin ordinance for establishing a Board of Commissioners to superintend and direct the naval affairs
Of this colony, and for other purposes; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration the letter from President Page, to him referred, and had come to
the following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where
the same were again twice read, and agreed to. m
Resolved, That Chevalier St. Aubin be appointed adjutant tythe six troops of horse raised in this Commonwealth,
to rank as junior captain of the squadron, and be allowed Is. 6d per day.
Resolved, That there be allowed to the said squadron a surgeon, to be chosen by the major and captains of the
same, and that his pay be lOs. per day.
Resolved, That the said squadron be allowed a chaplain, to be chosen by the officers aforementioned, and that his
pay be 10$. per day.
84
Resolved, That each non-commissioned officer and common trooper in the said squadron be furnished, at the pub-
lick expense, with a coat, a cap, a pair of leather breeches, and a pair of boots and spurs, or twenty dollars in lieu
thereof. . .
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for marching the troops of horse raised
in this commonwealth to join general Washington, agreeable to the requisition of the War Office in the city of Phi-
ladelphia, without any amendment.
They have also agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for giving salaries to the Speakers of the two Houses of the
General Assembly, with an amendment, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the
same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Ordered, That the Speaker be desired to issue a warrant for the election of a Delegate to serve in this House for
the county of Spotsylvania, during the necessary absence of Mann Page, jun. esq. one of the delegates appointed to
represent this State in General Congress.
Mr. Griffin, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To establish auditors of publick
accounts; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther conside¬
ration the state of the country.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bills Declaring slaves to be personal estate—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within
this Commonwealth—For the naturalization of foreigners— To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance for
establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, and For establishing a Court of
Appeals, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
FRIDAY, December 6, 1776.
Ordered, That the report and resolution upon the petition of Arthur Upshur, praying that the fine imposed on
him by the committee of Accomack might be remitted, and himself restored to the favour of his country, be published
in the Virginia Gazette.
Mr. Acrill, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To empower the vestry of the
parish of Westover, in the county of Charles City, to sell the lands appropriated to the use of the poor of the said
parish; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A bill To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance for establishing a Board of Commissioners to super¬
intend and direct the naval affairs of this colony, and for other purposes, was read a second time, and ordered to
be committed to Mr. Braxton, Mr. Adams and Mr. Treasurer.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for establishing several new ferries, and
discontinuing a former ferry, without any amendment; also, to the resolution of this House accepting of the pro¬
posal made by the General Congress for putting under their direction the forts at the mouth of Wheeling and the Great
Kanawah, and the fort at Pittsburg, without any amendment; also, to the resolution giving instructions to our Dele¬
gates in Congress to propose to Congress that the prisoners of war now in possession of this commonwealth shall be
delivered over to Congress, with an amendment, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered
the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to the inhabitants to supply, at a reasonable price, for the use of the
soldiers raised and to be raised in this commonwealth, as many blankets as they can possibly spare from their families;
and that the Governour be empowered to appoint a proper person in each county to collect the same, and issue his
warrant to the Treasurer for such sums of money as the purchases may amount to.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To empower the Governour
and Council to employ persons for working the lead mines to greater advantage; which was read the first time,
and ordered to be read a second time.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the President of the General Congress, enclosing several resolu¬
tions of Congress; which were read, and ordered to be committed to the committee upon the State of the Country.
85
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
. The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House directing the several troops of horse raised
xn this commonwealth to join general Washington; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
_ The House took into consideration the amendment proposed by the Senate to the bill For giving salaries to the
Speakers of the two Houses of the General Assembly; and the said amendment was read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Rutherford.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do recede from the amendments by them proposed to the bill intituled An act for
establishing a town at the Warm Springs, in the county of Berkeley, and disagreed to by the House, and have
agreed to the amendments to their amendments? and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the message from the Senate insisting on the amendments proposed to the bill
intituled An act for dividing the county o/Fincastle into three distinct counties, and the parish of Botetourt into
four distinct parishes; and the said amendments being again read,
Resolved, That this House do insist on the disagreement to the said amendments, and that Mr. Campbell do
acquaint the Senate therewith.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bills Declaring slaves to be per¬
sonal estate—For dissolving the several county and corporation committees within this commonwealth, and For
the naturalization of foreigners, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till the first day .of the next session of Assembly.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their farther consideration the state of the country, and had come to several'resolutions
thereupon, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of the inhabitants of the town of Alexandria is reasonable.
Resolved, That the Governour be empowered to employ proper persons to purchase all the copper and brass that
can be had in this commonwealth, and to take proper measures to have the same cast into such cannon, and of such
form, as will be the most useful for the field, and issue his warrant to the Treasurer for such sums of money as may
be necessary for that purpose.
Resolved, That our Delegates in Congress be instructed to apply to that body to fulfil such contracts as have been
heretofore entered into by the executive power of this commonwealth for victualling and supporting the forts and gar¬
risons belonging to the commonwealth upon the western frontiers, which, by a resolution of the present General As¬
sembly, have been put under the direction of Congress.
Resolved, That a loan office be established for the purpose of borrowing money in this country for the use of the
United States, and a commissioner appointed to superintend the said office according to a resolution of the General Con¬
gress of the 3d of October last, and under the regulations therein mentioned.
On a motion made,
Ordered. That it be an instruction to the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill To make provision
for defraying the expenses of erecting fortifications, and other purposes therein mentioned, to receive a clause,
or clauses, to empower the Governour, by and with the advice of the Privy Council, to form out of the two militia
companies in the town of Alexandria, in the county of Fairfax, one artillery company, to consist of 50 matrosses,
with proper officers, to be duly exercised at the batteries in the said town twice a week, and to mount proper guards
at the same, to receive only, when upon duty, the same pay and provisions with other artillery companies, pursuant
to the first resolution of the committee.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to bring in a bill pursuant to the 4th resolution, and that Mr. Starke,
Mr. Mason, Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Jefferson, and Mr. Fleming, be of the said committee.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the second and third resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour; which was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
Mr. Mason, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For suspending executions for
debt; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For appointing a Treasurer;
which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
An engrossed bill, To amend an act intituled An act for better securing the payment of levies and restraint
of vagrants, and for making provision for the poor, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Bullitt carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
^ Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House for paying to William Blaikley 40s.,
William M'Farlin 11/.' IS*. 6d., and Turner Southall 16/.; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew. *
22
86
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration, the petition of John Knibb and Richard Rennard, inspectors at Bermuda Hundred warehouse,
to them referred, and had agreed to the following report and resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and
afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, that some time in the month of October, 1771, the warehouse at Bermuda Hundred
was broke open when locked, and 400 lbs. of transfer tobacco stolen thereout, for which the petitioners paid to the
proprietors the sum of 4/. 45. 4d. That in the night time of the 11th of July, 1772, the said warehouse was again
broke open, and two hhds. of tobacco stolen thereout, one refused and unweighed hhd. the property of Bowler Cocke,
and one other hhd. neat weight 1065 lbs. the property of William Royal, for which the petitioners paid to the said
Bowler Cocke for his hogshead the sum of 61., and to the said William Royal for his hogshead the sum of 11/. 19,5.
Id. halfpenny.
Resolved, That the said petition is reasonable, and that the petitioners ought to be reimbursed the several sums
above mentioned, amounting to 22/. 35. 11 d. halfpenny.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
A bill For the appointment of Naval Officers, and ascertaining their fees, was read a second time, and ordered
to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the bills To amend an ordinance
intituled Jin ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, and
For establishing a Court of Mppeals, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
The House took into consideration the message from the Senate insisting on the amendment made%y them to the
bill intituled Jin act declaring what shall be treason; and the same being read,
Resolved, That this House do insist upon their disagreement to the said amendment, and tha,t Mr. Bullitt acquaint
the Senate therewith.
Mr. Fleming reported, from the committee appointed to examine the enrolled bills, that the committee had exa¬
mined several of the said bills, and had rectified such mistakes as were found therein, and that they are truly enrolled.
Ordered, That Mr. Fleming do carry the said bills to the Senate for their inspection, and to request that, after
they have examined the same, they have them signed by their Speaker, and returned to be signed by the Speaker of
this House.
The House took into consideration the amendment proposed by the Senate to the resolution of this House For
restraining officers from other States from recruiting men in this State; and the said amendment was read, and
is as follows:
Strike out from the word resolved to the end of the resolution, and insert: Jls it is essential to the safety of
the American cause that the Southern States should speedily be put on such a respectable footing as may enable
them to resist the attempts of the common enemy; that therefore the South Carolina officers be permitted to raise
as many men in this Commonwealth as shall be sufficient to complete the quota of continental troops, required
from that State, under the like restrictions as were heretofore imposed on the officers from South Carolina and
Georgia, who have been permitted to recruit men in this State.
The said amendment being read a second time, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Page do acquaint the Senate therewith.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, December 7, 1776.
Mr. Starke, from the Committee for Religion, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the petition of sundry inhabitants of the parish of Newport, in the county of Isle of Wi^ht,
praying that the vestry of the said parish may be dissolved, is reasonable
Resolved, That the petition of sundry inhabitants of Stratton Major parish, in the county of King and Queen,
praying that the vestry of the said parish may be dissolved, is reasonable.
The House took into consideration the amendment proposed b.y the Senate to the resolution of this House relative
to the disposition of the prisoners of war in the possession of this Commonwealth; which was read, and is as follows:
Hoping that in the course of exchange the prisoners taken from this State will be first considered, and redeemed
by the above mentioned prisoners.
The said amendment being read a second time, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
87
Pr^xton' from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same'were again
twice read, and agreed to,
Resolved, That the consideration of the petitions of divers inhabitants of the counties of Culpeper and Orange,
praying that the secretary's, county court clerks, and surveyors fees, may be reduced, be deferred until the next session
of Assembly.
Resolved, That the petition of divers inhabitants of the county of Cvlpeper, praying that the mode of appointing
suttlers may be altered and their profits regulated, be rejected, there being already sufficient provision made for that
purpose.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the Committee of Propositions and Grievances be discharged from proceeding on the petition of sun¬
dry inhabitants of the county of Loudoun, and that the same be referred to the Committee upon the State of the Country.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order, had under their consideration the petition of William Savage, to them referred, and had come to the fol¬
lowing resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the
same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the said William Savage be allowed to take the depositions of such <)f his witnesses as reside
without this Commonwealth, and that- he give reasonable notice of the time and place of taking the depositions of
those witnesses who reside in the' city of Philadelphia, to some one of our Delegates in Congress, who are requested
to employ an attorney on behalf of the Commonwealth, to attend the taking thereof.
Resolved, That the said Savage be allowed to take the depositions of his witnesses residing in the counties of
Prince William and Fairfax, giving reasonable notice to one or both of the Delegates of each county respectively,
of the time and place of taking the same.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the said petition be deferred until the second Monday of the next
session of Assembly.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee upon the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had,
according to order, had under their consideration several petitions from persons who had sustained damage by the
soldiery, and had come to the following resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in
at the clerk's table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That the consideration of the petitions of sundry persons, praying to be allowed for the damage they
had sustained by the soldiery, be postponed till the next session of Assembly.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That this House will on Monday next resolve itself into a committee to take into their farther consi¬
deration the state of the country.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For making farther provision
for the defence and protection of this country, which was read the first, time, and ordered to be read a second time.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To amend an ordi¬
nance intituled An ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony;
and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee
had, according to order, had under their farther consideration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto,
which he was ready to report when the House should be pleased to receive the same.
Ordered, That the said report be received on Monday next.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Cabell.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate do recede from their amendments to the bill intituled An act for dividing the
county of Fincastle into three distinct counties, and the parish of Botetourt into four distinct parishes, to which
this House disagreed, and have passed the said bill without the amendments.
Mr. Lee. from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee having, according to order, in¬
spected the report of the Committee of Claims at the last session, and also read, considered, and legulated the several
claims presented to this Assembly, had entered such of the said claims as were allowed in a book, and had diiected
him to report the same to the House; and he read the said report in his place, and afterwards delivered the book in
clerk's tcblct
Ordered, That the book of publick claims do lie upon the table, to be perused by the members of this House.
A message from the Senate by Mr Lee.
The Senate have inspected the enrolled bills, and are satisfied they are truly enrolled; and the
sailfe are signed by the Speaker of the Senate
The order of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a Court of
Appeals. being read.
Ordered, That the same be put off till Monday next.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
88
MONDAY, December 9, 1776*.
Mr. Wood, from the committee appointed to examine the reports of John Harvie and Joseph Neaville, to whom
it was referred to settle such of the claims against the publick as remained unsettled, and to revise those that had been
settled in West Augusta, reported, that the committee had agreed upon the following reports and resolutions there¬
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to. .
It appears to your committee, by the testimony of sundry witnesses, that while the forces under the command of
the earl of Dunmore, on the late expedition against the Indians, were encamped, near the Shawanese towns, col.
William Crawford was ordered to take the command of a detachment of 250 men, and to march against a town of
the Seneca nation of Indians, distant from the camp about 30 miles, his lordship at the same time assuring him that
if any plunder was taken it should be equally divided among the captors.
It farther appears, that the party took at the said town several prisoners, with plunder in Indian goods, horses,
silver trinkets, and other articles, which were sold by consent of the said captors, the sale amounting to 305/. 15$.
halfpenny, when the captains of each company became responsible for the purchases made by their men. It likewise
appears, that another party, commanded by col. M*Donald, on an expedition against the upper Shawanese towns,
after destroying the same, took plunder, which was sold in like manner, to the amount of 351. 11$. 3d. It farther
appears to your committee, that the commissioners, on settling the expenses of the late Indian war, stopped out of
the pay of the different officers the safd two sums, amounting in the whole to 341/. 6s. 3d. halfpenny.
It appears to your committee, by the testimony of sundry witnesses, that on the expedition against the upper
Shawanese town, John Hardin, jun. a private soldier in the company commanded by capt. Morgan, received a
wound with a ball in an engagement with the enemy, which penetrated his thigh and lodged near his groin, and
which at times occasions considerable pain and inconvenience.
Resolved, That the captors had an undoubted right to the said plunder, and in order that strict justice should be
done them a commissioner ought to be appointed to receive from the treasury the said sum of 341/. 6$. 3d. halfpenny,
and to call upon each of the officers who commanded parties in the said detachments (on oath) for lists of the names
of the men who served, and that the said commissioner pay each of them their proportionable parts of the said sum
of money.
Resolved, That the said John Hardin, jun. ought to be allowed the sum of 20/. in consideration of the wound
he received in the service of this country.
Ordered, That Mr. James Wood be appointed a commissioner for the purposes mentioned in the first of the said
resolutions.
Ordered, That he carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration several claims to them referred, and had agreed upon the following report and resolutions therer
upon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, that the claims of Isaac Israel, John Hyser, William Dark, and John and Wil¬
liam Ingles, for provisions by them furnished for the use of the said two companies, before the passing the ordinance
appointing them to be raised, were, upon being presented to the commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of this
Commonwealth, altogether rejected.
It also appears, that the said companies were, after passing the said ordinance, lodged in the houses of, and supplied
with provisions by, Isaac Israel, John Hyser, Daniel Culp, Henry Yeager, Adam Bishop, William Dark, Phi¬
lip Coon, John and William Ingles, and Cornelius Connoway, who have only been allowed by the said commis¬
sioners after the rate of six pence halfpenny per day for the same; that the said provisions were dressed and served by
the said several persons, who had much trouble therewith.
It also appears to your committee, that the account of John Blair, for supplying the said companies with 438
days subsistence, was totally rejected by the said commissioners.
Resolved, That Isaac Israel be allowed the sum of 17/. 14s. 3d., John Hyser 21. 10s. 4d. halfpenny, William
Dark 11. 2s. 2d. halfpenny, John and William Ingles 41. Is 3d. for their several claims for provisions furnished for
the use of the said two companies before the passing of the said ordinance.
Resolved, That Isaac Israel, John Hyser, Daniel Culp, Henry Yeager, Adam. Bishop, William Dark, Phi¬
lip Coon, John and Uilliam Ingles, and Cornelius Connoway, ought to receive an additional allowance of two
pence halfpenny per day for supplying and dressing provision for 5S99 days, and Isaac Taylor one penny per day
or furnishing 2400 days subsistence for the use of the said companies after passing the said ordinance, as followeth:
To Isaac Israel, for 4328 rations at 2d. halfpenny, /.45 1 8
John Hyser, 625 do. 6 10 2
Daniel Culp, 264 do. 2 15 0
do. do. 150 do. 1 11 3
Henry Yeager, 58 do. 0 12 0 halfpenny
William Dark, 69 do. 0 14 4 halfpenny
Philip Coon, 190 do. 1 19 7
89
To John and W. Ingles, 195 rations at 2d. halfpenny, 2 7 0 halfpenny
Cornelius Connoway, 20 do. ' 0 4 2.
Isaac Taylor, 2400 at Id. 10 0 0
Resolved, That John Blair be allowed the sutft of 16/. 85. 6d. for 438 days provision, at 9d. per dav, furnished
for the said companies.. J
i. , Refolvedi That the claims of the said officers and soldiers, of an allowance of pay for the time they were embo¬
died before the passing the said ordinance, be rejected.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee. do carry the 1st, 2d, and 3d resolutions, to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Starke, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill For establishing an office for
borrowing money for the use of the United States of America, and appointing a commissioner to superintend
the same; which was read the first time, and ordered ,to be read a second time.
On a motion made,
Ofdered, That the second reading of the said bill be put off till the first day of the next session of Assembly.
Ordered, That the committee of the whole House be discharged from proceeding on that part of the Governour's
letter which relates to the masters of the college, their granting surveyors commissions, and that the same be referred
tq^the consideration of the next session of Assembly.
Ordered, That the second reading of the bill To amend the several ordinances relating to the training of the
militia, and for reducing the same into one act, be put off till the first Monday in the next session of Assembly.
A bill For establishing a Court of Admiralty, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a com¬
mittee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said con\mittee, and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their conside¬
ration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill For appointing a Treasurer, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the
whole House.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A bill For suspending executions for debt, was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a committee
of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed tothe bill intituled An act to establish publick storehouses at the head
of. Potqvvmack creek for the reception of naval stores, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of
this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
And the said amendments being twice read, were, on the question severally put thereupon, agreed to by the
House.
Ordered, That Mr. Carter acquaint the Senate that the House have agreed to the amendments by them pro¬
posed to the said bill.
Mr. Carter, from the committee to whom the bill For establishing the places of holding courts in the coun¬
ties of Stafford and King George, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had the
said bill under their consideration, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and after¬
wards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
IVXr* SpEAKEB^
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for exempting the different societies of *
dissenters from contributing to the support and maintenance oj the church as by law established, and its minis- -
ters, and for other purposes therein mentioned, with amendments. ^
Also to the resolution, of this House recommending it to the inhabitants of this country to supply blankets for the
use of the soldiery, with an amendment, to which amendments they desire the concurrence of this House.
They have a'lso agreed to the resolution of this House giving instructions to our Delegates in General Congress
to propose to Congress the defraying out of the continental treasury the expenses of the expedition of the southern
Indians without any amendment; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the book of publick claims, and several claims were added by the House.
Resolved, That the book of publick claims do pass, and that Mr. Lee carry the same to the Senate for their con-
cafcrence ( t
The orders of the day, for the House to resoJve itself into a committee on the bill For establishing a Court of
Appeals, being read, •
Ordered, That the same be put off until the next session of Assembly.
23
90
A bill To empower the vestry of the parish of Westover, in the county of Charles City, to sell the lands ap¬
propriated to the use of the poor of the said parish, was read a second time, and committed to the Committee for
A bill To empower the vestries of the parish of St. James and Amherst to fix the rate of paying the levies
thereof in tobacco, was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Henry, from the committee to whom the bill To restrain the.operation of the acts for limitations of ac¬
tions and recording deeds in certain cases, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had
under their consideration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and af¬
terwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Rogers.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for paying the claims stated by the com¬
mittee to whom the report of John Harvie and Joseph Neaville were referred; and he delivered the same in at the bar,
and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the amendment proposed by the Senate to the resolution of this House recom¬
mending it to the inhabitants of this country to supply blankets for the use of the soldiery; and the said amendment
was read, and is as followeth: After the word blanket, insert or rugs.
' The said amendment being again read, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker, . '
The Senate have agreed to the Treasurer's accounts; and he presented the said accounts at the
bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill For exempting the differ¬
ent societies of dissenters from contributing to the support and maintenance of the church as by law established
and its ministers, and for other purposes therein mentioned; and the said amendments were twice read, and on the
question severally put thereupon, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A bill To establish auditors of public accounts was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to a com¬
mittee of the whole House.
Resolved,. That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill For establishing the place of holding courts in the coun¬
ties of Pittsylvania and Henry, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he deli¬
vered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The said amendments being read a second time, were, on the question severally put thereupon, agreed to by the
House. .
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and upon the
bill For the appointment of Naval Officers, and for ascertaining their fees, and for receiving the report of the
committee to whom the bill To amend an ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of
America in this colony, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, December 10, 1776.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To prevent the engrossing of salt; and that Mr. Carter, Mr,
Terry and Mr. Mason, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That any five of the committee appointed to examine and report the progress and expense of the several
publick salt works, be a sufficient number to proceed to business.
r A^r from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To encourage the making
of hemp, woollen, linen, and other manufactures; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second
time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House empowering the Governour to employ
proper persons to purchase up all the copper and brass that can be had in this commonwealth, to be cast into cannon.
91
Also to the resolution giving instructions to our Delegates to propose to Congress to fulfil such contracts as have
been entered into for victualling and supporting the forts and garrisons belonging to the commonwealth upon the western
frontiers. °
Also to the resolution for paying to John Knibb and Richard Rennard 22I. 3s. lid. halfpenny; and he delivered
the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A bill For making farther provision for the internal defence and security of this country was read a second
Hthe, and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their considera¬
tion the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto, which he was ready to report when the House should be
pleased to receive the same.
OrderedThat the said report be received to-morrow.
An engrossed bill, To empower the vestries of the parish of St. James and Amherst to fix the rate of paying
the levies thereof in tobacco, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Starke carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill, For establishing the places of holding courts in the counties of Stafford and King George,
was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Carter carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence?.
An engrossed bill, To restrain the operation of the acts for limitations of actions and recording deeds in cer¬
tain cases, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Henry carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Carter, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To prevent the engrossing of
salt; which was read the first time and ordered to be read' a second time.
Ordered, That Mr. Faulcon, Mr. Winn, and Mr. Gray, have leave to be absent from the service of this House
for the remainder of the session.
A bill To prevent the engrossing salt was read a second time, and ordered to be committed to Mr. Carter, Mr.
Terry, and Mr. Mason.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the said committee that they receive a clause, or clauses, to empower the
Governour, by and with the advice of the Privy Council, to prohibit or lay an embargo upon the exportation of beef,
pork, and bacon, from this commonwealth, until the publick magazines are supplied, or until ten days after the first
meeting of the General Assembly. ' .
Mr. Carter, from the committee to whom the bill To prevent the engrossing of salt was committed, reported,
that the committee had, according to order, had the said bill under their consideration, and had made several amend¬
ments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
twice read, and agreed to. _
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments be engrossed and read a third time.
Resolved, That the keeper of the publick store in the town of Fredericksburg be directed to furnish the commis¬
sioners appointed to superintend the manufactory of arms in the. said town with as much cloth and linen as will be
sufficient to make a good warm winter suit, and two shirts, for the several workmen employed in the said manufac¬
tory, together with a pair of shoes and stockings for each of them, they paying a reasonable price for the same.
'Ordered, That Mr. Fitzhugh do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bills For appointing a Treasurer,—For suspending executions for debt,—To establish auditors of publick ac¬
counts for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House on the bill To amend an ordinance intituled
An ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, and For the ap¬
pointment of Naval Officers, and ascertaining their fees, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, December 11, 1776.
A message from the Senate by IVTr. Lee.
TIT— Cp'n A Tfp D
' The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for establishing the places of holding
courts in the counties of Stafford and King George.
Also to the resolution for paying to John Hardin 20/.
For dividing the sum of 341/. 6s. 3d. halfpenny, the produce of plunder taken by a detatchment ol soldiers under
1 Crawford from the Indians, in the expedition under lord Dunmore, among the captors, and for appointing Mr.
James Wood a commissioner to receive the same, without any amendment.
92
They have also agreed' to the bill intituled Jin act for the better securing the payment of levies and restraint
of vagrants, and for making provision for the poor, with an amendment, to which they desire the concurrence
of this House. , „
They have also directed me to lay before the House the following written message:
Mr. Speaker, .
The Senate have not receded from their amendment to the bill Declaring what shall be treason,
but ever willing and desirous of keeping up harmony with the other branch of the Legislature, and of co-operating
with them in giving force to laws for the benefit and safety of the Commonwealth, are desirous of a full and free con¬
ference with the House of Delegates on the subject of the said amendment, to the end that no opinions hastily taken
up by either branch of the Legislature may deprive the State of the benefits which will result from that salutary law.
And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Cabell.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to enable persons living in other countries
to dispose of their estates in this Commonwealth with more ease and convenience; and he delivered the same in
at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Starke, from the Committee for Religion, to whom the bill To enable the vestry of the parish of Botetourt
to purchase lands for a glebe, and for other puproses therein mentioned, was committed, reported, that the com¬
mittee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had directed him to report the same,
without any amendment. ,
Ordered, That the said bill be engrossed and read a third time.
The House took into consideration the written message from the Senate desiring a free conference on the subject
of the disagreement of this House to the amendment proposed by them to the bill Declaring what shall be treason;
and the same being read,
Resolved, That this House do agree to the free conference desired by the Senate, and that Mr. Bullitt, Mr.
Treasurer, Mr. Mason, Mr. Henry, Mr. Starke, and Mr. Banister, be the managers of the said conference on the
part of this House.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate, to acquaint them that this House, equally desirous with the
Senate to keep up harmony between the two branches of the Legislature, have agreed to the free conference desired
by them on the subject-matter of the«disagreement of this House to the amendment proposed by them to the bill De¬
claring what shall be treason; and that Mr. Bullitt do carry the said message.
The managers then withdrew.
Mr. Bullitt reported, that the managers appointed by this House had met .those of the Senate in the conference
room, and had freely discussed the subject-matter of the conference, after which the managers from the Senate retired,
promising to report what had passed to the Senate, and that the result of their farther deliberation thereupon should
be communicated by message to this House.
Mr. Wood, from the committee appointed to examine the reports of John Harvie and Joseph Neaville, reported,
that the committee had agreed upon the following report and resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and
afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, by the testimony of George Vallendigham, that he received a lieutenant's com¬
mission on the 8th day of May, 1774, when he entered into service; that before.fie crossed the Ohio, to go on the
expedition against the upper Shu-tmmcse towns, major Connolly, who then commanded the militia of West %dugusta,
promised him a captain's commission of the above date provided he could raise a full company. It also appears from
his pay roll, that he recruited 43 private men, exclusive of three serjeants, who all continued in the service during the
war. It farther appears, that the commissioners allowed him the pay of a lieutenant, and that an ensign and three
serjeants belonging to the said detachment received their full pay.
It farther appears to your committee, that Capt, Joseph Bowman received instructions from lord Dunmore to
raise a company to join the forces destined against the Shawanese towns, which he complied with, advancing his own
credit in equipping them properly for the service.
It farther appears, that several of the men, after being provided with arms and such necessaries as they stood in
need of, and before their pay amounted to such advances, deserted, by which the said Joseph Bowman has been com¬
pelled to pay the sum of 24/. 2s. 5d. which was over and above the pay of the said deserters. It farther appears, that
the advances consisted of such articles as were absolutely necessary to fit them for the said expedition.
Resolved, That the claim of George Vallendigham be rejected.
Resolved, That the said Joseph Bowman ought to be reimbursed the said sum of 24/. 2s. 5d. by the publick.
Ordered, That Mr. flood do carry the last resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House took into consideration the amendment proposed by the Senate to the bill intituled Jin act for better
securing the payment of levies and restraint of vagrants, and for making provision for the poor; and the said
amendment being twice read, was, on the question put thereupon, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt do acquaint the Senate therewith.
93
A message from the Senate by Mr. Jones.
Mr. Speaker,
j u , Th® S,enate do adhere to their amendment to the bill intituled An act declaring what shall be
treason,, and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
*k 6 ouse °£ Delegates observing, that in the present mode of ballotting for officers it may frequently happen
. a persons may be appointed to the most important posts contrary to the opinion of a large majority of both Houses,
*u ^1? P^°Pose *° Senate, that in future, when different officers are to be appointed to any one department,
they shall be ballotted for singly; that when either one or more officers are to be appointed, if, upon the return of the
ballots, it should appear that neither candidate hath a majority of both Houses, each House proceed to a ballot between
the two candidates standing foremost on the list, and that the person in whose favour there may be a majority on the
joint votes of both Houses shall be adjudged duly elected.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said proposition to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Starke, from the committee of the whole House, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had
under their consideration the bill For making farther provision Jor the internal defence* and security of this
country, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the
clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be re-committed to a committee of the whole House.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
An engrossed bill, To prevent the engrossing of salt, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Carter carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill. To enable the vestry of Botetourt to purchase lands for a glebe, and for other purposes
therein mentioned, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Starke carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
bills For appointing a Treasurer,—For suspending executions for debt,—To establish auditors of public ac¬
counts, for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House on the bill To amend an ordinance intituled
Jin ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, and For the
appointment of Naval Officers, and ascertaining their fees, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow^ 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, December 12, 1776.
A message- from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House directing the workmen employed in
the gun manufactory to be furnished with the necessary clothing; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew.
The House took into consideration the message from the Senate adhering to their amendments to the bill Declar¬
ing what shall be treason; and the same being read,
Resolved, That this House do recede from their disagreement to the said amendment, and that Mr. Bullitt ac¬
quaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Rutherford.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House for paying Israel Christian 171. 14s.
3d,, John Hyser 21. 10s. 4d. halfpenny, William Dark 11. 2s. 2d. halfpenny, John and William Ingles 41. Is. 3d.,
Isaac Israel 451. Is. 2d., John Hyser 61. 10s. 2d, Daniel Culp 21. 15s., ditto 1/. lis. 3f/., Henry Yeager 12s 0d.
halfpenny, William Dark 14s. 4d. halfpenny. Philip Coon 11. 19s. Id., John and William Ingles 21. 7s. 0d. half¬
penny, Cornelius Connoway 4s. 2d., Isaac Taylor 10/., and to John Blair 161. Ss. 6d. And he delivered the
same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Hite, from the committee to whom the reports of John Harvie and Joseph Neaville were reteired, reported,
that the committee had had the same under their farther consideration, and had agreed upon the following report and
resolution; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again
•twice read, and agreed to. ... ^ , r, .
It appears to your committee, that capt. James Wood received instructions from lord Dunmore to raise a com-
panv to ioin the forces destined against the Shciwanese towns, which he complied with, advancing his own credit in
eauinnine them properly for the service. It farther appears, that several of the men, after being provided with arms
and such necessaries as they stood in need of, and before their pay amounted to such advances, deserted, by which the
said captain Wood has been compelled to pay the sum of 8/. 17s. Id. over and above the pay of the said deserters.
94
It farther appears, that the advance consisted of such articles as were absolutely necessary to fit them for the said
eX^Resolved, That the said James Wood ought to be reimbursed the sum of 81. 17s. 7d. by the publick.
Ordered, That Mr. Hite do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Braxton, from the Committee of Propositions and Grievances, reported, that the committee had, according
to order had under their consideration the petition of the trustees of the town of Manchester to them referred, and
had come to the following resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's
table, where the same was again twice read, and agreed to. ' _
Resolved, That the petition of the said trustees, praying that an act may pass to empower the said trustees, or
others for that purpose, to be appointed to remove the buildings and other obstructions which are or may be erected in
the passage between the said town and the river, be rejected, the matter thereof being cognizable before a court of law.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed Jlo the bill intituled Jin act to prevent the operation of the acts for
limitations of actions and recording deeds in certain cases; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew.
Resolved, That the money allowed the several persons whose claims were stated by Mr. Harvie and Mr. Neaville,
and passed this session of Assembly, be paid by the Treasurer, as follows: So much as is due to the inhabitants of
West JLugusta to Mr. David Rogers, and what is due to the inhabitants of other counties to the respective members
of such counties, or either of them, to be by them paid to the several claimants.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Lee, from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
their consideration the claims of capt. William Dark and capt. Isaac Beale, for the expenses incurred in supporting
their two companies of riflemen from the time of their being embodied till the passing of the ordinance directing the
same to be raised, and had agreed upon the following report and resolution thereupon; which he read in his place, and
afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, that Jldam Bishop cooked, baked, and found house room and lodging, for six sol¬
diers belonging to the company commanded by captain Dark, for the space of thirty-two days, for which an account
was presented to the commissioners appointed to settle the accounts of this commonwealth for the sum of 2l. 12s. 7d.
halfpenny, and a deduction by them made of 1/. 10$. 7d. halfpenny.
Resolved, That the farther sum of ll. 10s. 7d. halfpenny be paid to the said Jldam Bishop, as a full satisfaction
for his said services.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolutiorfto the^Senate for their concurrence. ^
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For making farther
provision for the internal security and defence of this country; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the committee had, according to order, had the said bill under their
consideration, and had made several amendments thereto; which he was ready to report when the House should be
pleased to receive the same.
Ordered, That the said report be received to-morrow.
The orders of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the bills
For appointing a Treasurer,—For suspending executions for debt,—To establish auditors of publick accounts,
for receiving the report from the committee of the whole House on the bill To amend an ordinance intituled Jin
ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, and For the appoint¬
ment of Naval Officers, and ascertaining their fees, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 9 o'clock.
FRIDAY, December 13, 1776.
Ordered, That the publick printer do immediately print two copies of the act Declaring what shall be treason,
for each county, and that the members be desired to have the same published in the several churches and meeting
houses in their respective counties.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee. •
Mr. Speaker,
, , . , ^he Senate have agreed to the book of publick claims; and he delivered the same in at the bar,
and then withdrew.
Ordered, That a committee be appointed to proportion the publick levy, of the following persons: Mr. Lee, Mr.
JLdanis, Mr. Gray, Mr Pickett, Mr. Peyton, Mr. Clapham, Mr. Starke, and Mr. Davenport.
Mr Starke, from the Committee for Religion, to whom the bill To empower the vestry of the parish of
Westover, in the county of Charles City, to sell the lands appropriated to the use of the poor of the said parish,
95
was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and
a ma e an amendment thereto, which he. read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where
the same was again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered^ That the said bill, with the amendment, be engrossed and read a third time.
' encourage the making of hemp, woollen, linen, and other manufactures, was read a second time,
and on ne question put, that the said bill be engrossed and read a third time, it passed in the negative.
Resolved, That the said bill be rejected.
Ordered, That Mr. Fleming have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the
session.
r»^r" fr°m the committee of the whole House, reported, according to order, the amendments to the
bill For making farther provision for the internal security and defence of this country, which he read in his place,
and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said hill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Mr. Starket from the committee appointed to inquire into and report the progress and expense of the several
publick salt works erected in consequence of the ordinance of the late Convention, reported, that the committee had
accordingly inquired into the same, and had agreed upon a report; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered
in at the clerk's table, where the same was again read, and is as follows:
Your committee find, by an account, that the salt ponds on the south side of James river, under the direction and
management of Mr. John S. Wills, are completed, and that the expense attending the same amounts to 1069/. 05. 2d.
including the managers and clerks wages, two salt pans, and other materials; that there are sundry articles now on hand,
amounting to the sum of 46/.; that fifty bushels of salt have been made, and sold at the rate of 55. a bushel, from the
.said works, which makes the sum of 12/. 105. which added together makes the sum of 58/. IO5. and that deducted
from the first mentioned sum of 1069/. 05. 2d. leaves a balance due from the said works of 1010/. 105. 2d.
Your committee also find, that two third parts of the salt works in the county of Gloucester, under the direction
and management pf Mr. John Hobday, are completed, and fit for evaporation of salt water; that the expenses which
have already accrued amount to the sum of 907/. 105. 11*/. farthing, and in order to complete the same the farther
sum of 180/. will yet be required.
Your committee farther find, that three fourth parts of the salt works in the county of Elizabeth City, under the
direction and management of Mr. John Gary, are completed; that some progress hath been made in the other part
thereof; that the monies expended thereon amount to the sum of 686/. 05. 11 d. halfpenny, and that it will take the
farther sum of 3 or 400/. to bring the same to perfection.
Your committee also find, that the salt works under the management of Mr. Richard Parker, in the district be¬
tween Potowmack and Rappahannock rivers, are nearly complete; that the monies expended thereon amo'unt to the
sum of 1364/. 5s. 10d. halfpenny, and that it will take the farther sum of 135/. 145. Id. halfpenny, to finish the same.
Your committee likewise find, from the accounts of Mr. William Hewitt, manager of the salt works in the
county of York, that the sum of 679/. 95. 2d. hath been already expended thereon, and that the sum of 100/. will still
be required to complete the same.
Your committee farther find, from the representation of Mr. Southy Simpson, director and manager of the salt
works on the Eastern Shore of this country, that there hath been already expended thereon about the sum of 530/.
and that in order to complete them the farther sum of 270/ will yet be required.
Your committee, for the better illustration of their said report, beg leave to refer to the following account:
Expended on the salt works under the direction of Mr. John Wills, /.1Q10 9 9
Ditto on those under direction of Mr. Hobday, 907/. 105. 11 d. halfpenny. Wanted
to complete the same, ISO/.
Ditto on those under direction of Mr. Cary, 686/. 11 d. 3 farthings. Wanted to com¬
plete the same, 400/.
Ditto on those under direction of Mr. Parker, 1364/. 5s. 10*/. halfpenny. Wanted to
complete the same, 135/. 145. Id. halfpenny,
Ditto on those under direction of Mr. Hewitt, 679/. 95. 2d. Wanted to complete
the same, 100/.
Ditto on those under direction of Mr. Simpson, 530/. Wanted to complete the
same, 270/.
Total,
Ordered, That the said report do lie on the table. .
Resolved, That i.t be recommended to the Delegates from this Commonwealth to apply to Congress to provide in
the continental army for Thomas Bullitt, Esq. adjutant general of this Commonwealth, having regard to his former
rank in this country, he not having hitherto been otherwise provided for; because it was supposed, from his experience^
he would be as useful in that department as any other in the nomination of this Commonwealth.
Ordered, That Mr. LeeAo carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
As an encouragement to such able bodied brave men as may incline to enlist either into the continental army or
the battalions directed to be raised for the more immediate defence of this Commonwealth, and who may leave behind
them either wives, children, or aged parents,
1087
10
11
farthing
1086
0
11
3 farthings
1500
0
0
779
9
2
800
0
0
6263
10
10
96
Resolved, nemine coniradicente, That it be earnestly recommended to such of the inhabitants of the several
counties as are able, that they immediately enter into associations, obliging themselves to see that all those who exert
their own industry in a proper manner shall be comfortably supported and maintained during the absence of their hus¬
bands, parents, or children; and as an encouragement to such of the militia under the like circumstances, as shall either
enter as volunteers or be draughted, when called for, to step forth with becoming alacrity and resolution in defence of
the just rights and liberties of their country at so important and alarming a crisis, it is farther resolved, that.the same
exhortation be given to such associates to extend their equal care and attention to them and their families And this
Assembly doth give this publick assurance to all soldiers of every denomination, and to all sailors entering into the
publick service, and who shall behave themselves well, that no endeavours of theirs shall be wanting to make every thing
as convenient and comfortable to them as their station may entitle them to, and the circumstances of the country will
admit of.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the Governour, that he will be pleased, with the advice of his Council, to
direct that immediate and ample provision be made for the comfortable subsistence and accommodation, as well in sick¬
ness as in health, of such soldiers and sailors as are already engaged, or may hereafter enlist into the service of this
Commonwealth.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For the appointment
of Naval Officers, and ascertaining their fees; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair,
and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill,
and had made several amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table,
where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate, by Mr. Cabell.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to empower the vestries of the parishes of St. James and
Amherst to fix the rate of paying the levies thereof in tobacco, and to the resolution for settling the mode of ballot¬
ing, and paying Joseph Bowman 24/. 2s. 5d. And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For appointing audi¬
tors of public accounts; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported,
that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had made some progress
therein, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
The order of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee on the bill For suspending executions for
debt, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off until the next session of Assembly.
On a motion made,
Ordered, That the third reading of the bill For establishing a High Court of Chancery, and of the bill For
establishing a General Court and Courts of Jissize, be put off until the next session of Assembly.
Ordered, That the second reading of the bill For better regulating the proceedings in the county courts be put
off until the next session of Assembly.
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill To direct a mode of administering the oaths to the sheriff of
York, and that Mr. Digges, Mr. Prentis, and Mr. Mason, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the said committee that they receive a clause, or clauses, to extend the power
of the commissioners appointed to try the criminals now in the public jail.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions for paying to Joel Corneck 74/. 12*. 6d., Thomas
Banks 421 5s., Lemuel Corneck 461. 17s. 6d., William Haynes 60/. 15*., and Jacob Keeling 112/. 5s. And he
delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
.... T,he order? the d%> for the House t0 resolve itself into a committee on the state of the country, and on the
l s or appointing a reasurer To establish auditors of publick accounts, for receiving the report from-the
commit ee o tie who e House on the bill To amend an ordinance intituled Jin ordinance J or establishing a mode
oj punishment for the enemies of America in this colony, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow. '
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
SATURDAY, December 14, 1776.
&pp?s*wh^LT^^es^neJreeWl°n EPPB& ^ appointed serJeant at arms to this House, in the room of Mr. Francis
.. A'1 engr°ssed bill. To empower the vestry of the parish of Westover, in the county of Charles City, to sell
the lands appropriated, to the use of the poor of the said parish, was read a third time.
eso ve , hat the said bill do pass, and that Mr, Acrill carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
• An engrossed bill, For establishing a Court of Admiralty, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Treasurer carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Cabell.
Mr. Speaker,
Tbe Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House to encourage the enlistment of soldiers,
and recommending it to the Govemour to make provision for the comfortable subsistence "of such as are or may be
engaged in the service of this commonwealth, for paying James Wood 8/. 17s. Id. and for directing the payment of
the money to sundry persons whose claims were stated by Mr. Harvie and Mr. Neaville; and he delivered the same
in at the bar, and then withdrew.
An engrossed bill, For making farther provision for the internal security and defence of this country, was
read a third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Adams carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Ordered, That Mr. Ferry and Mr. Speed have leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remain¬
der of the session.
Ordered, That the committee appointed to proportion the publick levy be discharged therefrom, perfect lists of
the tithables not having been returned.
A resolution for paying Isaac Thomas a sum of money as a recompense for services rendered the country in the
l$te Indian war, and a compensation for the losses he had sustained thereby, was presented to the House, read, and
ordered to be referred to Mr. Campbell, Mr. Talbot, Mr. Williams, Mr. Wood, Mr. Starke, Mr. Lockhart, and
Mr. McDowell.
Mr. Digges, from the committee appointed, presented, according to order, a bill To direct a mode of adminis¬
tering the oaths to the sheriff of York; which was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Fleming reported, from the committee appointed to examine the enrolled bills, that the committee had ex¬
amined several other of the said bills, and had rectified such mistakes as were found therein, and that they are truly
enrolled.
Ordered, That Mr. Fleming do carry the said bills to the Senate for their inspection.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To establish auditors
of publick accounts; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Starke reported,
that the committee had, according to order, had under their farther consideration the said bill, and had made several
amendments thereto, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act to empower the vestry of the parish of
Westover, in the county of Charles City, to sell the lands appropriated to the use of the poor of the said parish;
and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act to prevent the engrossing of salt, with amend¬
ments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Treasurer, from the committee of the whole House, reported, according to order, the amendments to the
bill To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment for the enemies of
America in this colony; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same
Were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the committee for the county of Northampton; which was read,
and ordered to lie on the table. .
The House took into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill intituled An act to pre¬
vent the engrossing of salt; and the amendments being severally read a second time, the first, fourth, and fifth, were
agreed to bv the House, the second agreed to with an amendment, and the third disagreed to.
Ordered That a message be sent to the Senate to acquaint them that the House have agreed to the first, fourth,
and fifth of the said amendments, proposed an amendment to the second, and had disagreed to the third amendment,
and to desire they will pass the bill with the said amendment, as agreed toj and that Mr. Carter do carry the said
message. 05
98
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill For appointing a
Treasurer; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair, and Mr. Starke reported, that the
committee'had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had made several amendments
thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Resolved, That this House will on Tuesday next proceed by ballot to the appointment of a Treasurer, commis¬
sioners of Oyer and Terminer for the trial of the criminals, Judges of the Court of Admiralty, and Naval Officers;
and that Mr. Mason acquaint the Senate therewith.
A bill To direct a mode of administering the oaths to the sheriff of York, was read a second time, and com¬
mitted to Mr. Digges, Mr. Prentis, and Mr. Griffin.
Ordered, That it be an instruction to the said committee that they receive a clause, or clauses, for fixing the
place of holding the court of admiralty.
The order of the day, for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the slate of the country, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till Monday next.
Adjourned till Monday, 10 o'clock.
MONDAY, December 16, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Governour, enclosing one from Samuel Meredith, Esq.
declining to accept the office of colonel of one of the continental battalions to be raised in this Commonwealth; which
was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
Mr. Braxton, from the committee to whom the bill To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance for es¬
tablishing a Board of Commissioners, to superintend and direct the naval affairs of this colony, reported, that
the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said bill, and had directed him to report the
same without any amendment.
On the question put, that the said bill be engrossed and read a third time, it passed in the negative.
Resolved, That the said bill be rejected.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That it be recommended to the members for the several counties, where the officers have not already
received the recruiting money, that they receive for and pay the same to the several officers, on their giving security
for the due application thereof.
Mr. Prentis, from the committee to whom the bill To direct a mode of administering the oaths to the sheriff
of York, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their consideration the said
bill, and had made several amendments thereto; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's
table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
An engrossed bill, For appointing a Treasurer, was read a third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Braxton carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill To amend an ordinance intituled An ordinance for establishing a mode of punishment
for the enemies of America in this colony, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be A bill for the punishment of certain offences.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill To establish a Court of Admiralty, with an amendment,
to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into.consideration the said amendment; which was twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker,
' Senate have inspected the enrolled bills last sent them, and are satisfied they are truly en¬
rolled; and the same are signed by the Speaker of the Senate. And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew.
An engrossed bill, To establish auditors of publick accounts, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Griffin carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
A bill To make provision for defraying the expenses of erecting fortifications, and other purposes therein
mentioned, was read a third time. .
Resolved, That this House will immediately resolve itself into a committee on the said bill.
99
♦•»««» cnont ♦uUSe* aC\? o® or(5er of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the said bill; and after some
1 k a -r* Pea. ,er rGsumed the chair, and Mr. Braxton reported, that the committee had, according to
' wu. Un Gr u16^ ®onsi^erati°n the said bill, and had made some progress therein, but not having time to go
through the same, had directed him to move for leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow again resolve itseif into a committee on the said bill.
Kesoivea, that this House will to-morrow proceed, by ballot, to the appointment of a colonel of the continental
troops in the room of Samuel Meredith, Esquire; and that Mr. Starke acquaint the Senate therewith.
- A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker,
T'16 ®ena^0 have agreed to the bill intituled an act For making farther provision for the in¬
ternal security and defence of this country, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House.
i hey have receded from their amendment to the bill intituled Jin act for establishing a Court of Jidmiralty,
disagreed to by this House, and have passed the same with the amendment agreed to.
They have passed the bill intituled Jin act for appointing a Treasurer, without any amendment; and he de¬
livered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The order of the day for the House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
TUESDAY, December 17, 1776.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled %dn act for making a farther provision for the
internal security and defence of this country, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this
House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Rutherford.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for paying to Jldam Bishop the sum of
1/. 10s. Id. halfpenny; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the bill To make provision for
defraying the expenses of erecting fortifications, and other purposes therein mentioned; and after some time spent
therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Braxton reported, that the committee had, according to order, had
under their farther consideration the said bill, and had made several amendments thereto, which he read in his place,
and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table* where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to establish auditors of publick accounts;
and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker, x
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act for the appointment of Naval Officers,
and ascertaining their fees; also to the resolution of this House respecting the mode of ballotting; and he delivered
the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill intituled Jin act for
making a farther provision for the internal security and defence of this country; and the said amendments being
twice read, the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th were agreed to, and the others disagreed to.
Ordered, That a message be sent to the Senate to acquaint them the House have agreed to the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th,
5th, 6th and 7th amendments by them proposed to the bill For making a farther provision for the internal secu¬
rity and defence of this country, and had disagreed to the other amendments, and to desire they will pass the said
bill with the amendments agreed to; and that Mr. Starke do carry the said message.
The House took into consideration the message from the Senate adhering to the amendments proposed by them to
the bill To prevent the engrossing of salt; and the same being again read,
Resolved, That this House do adhere to their disagreement to the said amendments.
An engrossed bill, To direct the mode of administering the oaths to the sheriff of York, was read a third
time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that the title be J1 bill for extending the powers of the Commissioners
of Oyer and Terminer, and for other purposes therein mentioned; and that Mr. Prentis do carry the same to the
Senate for their concurrence.
100
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
■^R* PBA ' The genate have agreed to the bill intituled An act for the punishment of certain offences,
with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and
then withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker, ^
The Senate do adhere to the amendments by them proposed to the bill For making a farther
provision for the internal security and defence of this country, to which thjs House have disagreed; and he deli¬
vered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew. .
The House took into consideration the said message, and the amendments being again read,
Resolved, That this House do recede from their disagreement thereto; and that Mr. Starke do acquaint the
Senate therewith. .
A bill To empower the Governour and Council to employ persons for working the lead mines to greater ad¬
vantage,, was read a second time, and committed to Mr. Talbot, Mr. Lynch, and the members for Fincastle.
The House, according to the order of the day, being about to proceed by ballot to the appointment of a Treasurer,
several gentlemen were nominated as proper to be ballotted for.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry a list of the persons so nominated to the Senate, and desire they will lay
before this House a list of such persons as shall be nominated in their House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
I am directed by the Senate to acquaint this House, that they are satisfied with the persons nomi¬
nated by them as proper to be ballotted for as a Treasurer.
The House then proceeded, by ballot, to the appointment of a Treasurer; and the members having prepared tickets,
for the person to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box, Mr. Starke, Mr. Curie, Mr. Cary, and Mr.
Prentis, were appointed a committee to meet a committee to be appointed by the Senate, and report to the House
upon whom the majority fell.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
committee from the Senate in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that
the majority was in favour of George Webb, Esquire.
Resolved, therefore, That the said George Webb, Esq. be appointed Treasurer of this Commonwealth, to hold
the said office for one year, and from thence to the end of the next session of Assembly.
The House proceeded, in the same manner, to the appointment of commissioners of Oyer and Terminer; and
John Page, Dudley Digges, John Blair, Bartholomew Dandridge, and Thomas Walker, Esquires, were nomi¬
nated as proper persons to be ballotted for.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Zee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate are satisfied with the persons nominated by this House, and they have not proposed
any others, and are therefore willing the persons so nominated should be appointed without any ballot.
Resolved, That the said John Page, Dudley Digges, John Blair, Bartholomew Dandridge, and Thomas
Walker, Esquires, be appointed commissioners for the trial of the criminals, pursuant to the act of Assembly intituled
An act for appointing commissioners of Oyer and Terminer for the trial of the criminals now in the publick
jail.
The House proceeded to ballot for three Judges of the Court of Admiralty, and several persons being nominated
as proper to be ballotted for,
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry a list of the persons so nominated to the Senate, and desire they will lay
before this House a list of such persons as shall be nominated in their House.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have directed me to lay before this House a list of the persons who have been nomi¬
nated in the Senate as proper to be ballotted for Judges of the Court of Admiralty; and he delivered the same in at
the bar, and then withdrew.
The House then proceeded to ballot for the said Judges, and the members having prepared tickets for the persons
to be appointed, and put the same into the ballot box, Mr. Braxton, Mr. Curie, Mr. Prentis, and Mr. Reade, were
appointed a committee to meet a committee to be appointed by the Senate, and report to the House upon whom the
majority fell. , rr j t . v i
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton acquaint the Senate therewith.
The committee.then withdrew, and after some time returned into the House, and reported, that they had met a
committee from the Senate in the conference room, and had jointly with them examined the ballot boxes, and that the
majority was in favour of Richard Cary, William Holt, and Bernard Moore, Esquires.
101
^\n^AS°/VA^* That the said Richard Cary, William Holt, and Bernard Moore, Esquires, be ap¬
pointed Judges oi the Court of Admiralty.
•oA*e ^®US® to°h into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill intituled An act for the
punt men Jv offences; and the said amendments being twice read, were agreed to by the House.
Ordered^ That Mr. Bullitt do acquaint the Senate therewith. '
' t ef°rf^S|^ «e ^or House to resolve itself into a committee upon the state of the country, for the ap-
•poin men o field officers to command the troops to be raised for the internal security and defence of this country, of
$ colone ot the continental troops, and of auditors of publick accounts, being read,
Ordered, That the same be put off till to-morrow.
Ordered, That there be a call of the House to-morrow, at 9 o'clock.
Mr. Mason, from the committee to whom the letter and other papers from the Delegates appointed to represent
this State in General Congress, on the subject of the disputed boundary between this country and the State of Penn¬
sylvania, were referred, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had the same under their consideration,
and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the
clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Resolved, That it is the mutual interest of the Commonwealths of Virginia and Pennsylvania, that the boun¬
daries between them be speedily settled and ascertained, in the most amicable and indisputable manner, by the joint
agreement and concurrence of both; but, that this desirable end being unattainable by diffidence or reserve, your com¬
mittee are concerned to find that the committee of the Pennsylvania Convention have confined themselves to general
observations on the cession and release made by the Commonwealth of Virginia, without attempting to show that the
temporary boundary proposed was really inconsistent with the same, or offering any thing with certainty on the part
of Pennsylvania in its stead, until the true limits of their charter could be authentically ascertained and settled.
Resolved, That as the boundaries expressed in the Pennsylvania charter may admit of great doubt, and variety
of opinions may arise on the construction, and it is expedient and wise to remove, as much as possible, all cause of fu¬
ture controversy (the great principle upon which the Virginia Convention acted in making the aforesaid cession and
release) to quiet the minds of the people who may be affected thereby, and to take from our common enemies an op¬
portunity of fomenting mutual distrust and jealousy, this Commonwealth ought to offer such reasonable terms of ac¬
commodation (even if the loss of some territory is incurred thereby) as may be cordially accepted by our sister State,
and an end put to all future dispute, by a firm and permanent agreement and settlement.
Resolved, therefore, That the Virginia Delegates in Congress be empowered and instructed to propose to the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania a final accommodation of our disputed boundaries, in the following manner:
That the meridian line drawn from the fountain or head of Potowmack river shall be extended from the intersec¬
tion of the line run between the proprietors of Maryland and Pennsylvania (commonly called Mason and Dixon's
line) due north, until it intersects the latitude of 40 degrees, and from thence the southern boundary of Pennsylva¬
nia. shall be extended on the said fortieth degree of latitude until the distance of five degrees of west longitude from
Delaware river shall be completed thereon, the same to be ascertained by proper astronomical observations; that from
the completion of the said five degrees of longitude, upon the said fortieth degree of latitude, the western boundary of
Pennsylvania shall be fixed at five degrees of longitude from its eastern, either in every point thereof, according to
the meanders oi Delaware river, or (which'is perhaps easier, and better for both) from proper points or angles on the
saidDelaware river, with intermediate straight lines between; and whenever the said western boundary shall be run,
that the degrees of longitude be also fixed by astronomical observations, at proper points or angles, on the said western
boundary, answering to the points or angles on the said river Delaware; and from these that there be straight lines
run, corresponding as near as may be with the before mentioned straight lines, or reduced courses of the said river:
For which purpose, if the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania shall accept this offer, and whensoever they shall have
signified their agreement to the boundaries herein proposed, the Governour and Council are empowered and desired
to appoint commissioners to proceed with a proper mathematical apparatus, and in conjunction with commissioners to
be appointed on the part of the. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, to ascertain and run the said southern, or southern
and western boundary,.until the same shall strike the Ohio or Allegheny river, which it is apprehended is as far as
they can yet be extended with safety, on account of the Indians. Saving their private property and rights to all per¬
sons who may have acquired titles, under either country respectively, previous to the ascertaining and running such
boundary, although they should be found to fall within the other.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 9 o'clock.
WEDNESDAY, December 18, 1776.
Mr Lee from the Committee of Publick Claims, reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under
tw consideration several petitions to them referred, and had come to the following resolutions thereupon; which he
read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
26
102
Resolved That the petition of Frederick Woolford, praying a farther allowance for 240 days diets furnished the
soldiers of the 8th regiment under the command of col. Muhlenburg, be rejected, it appearing that Edward Snickers,
the commissary, has already been allowed for 257 days diets, at one shilling per day, furnished the said soldiers by
the That the etition 0f Crookshanks, praying a farther allowance for 102 days diets furnished the
soldiers under the command of captains Campbell and Clark, be rejected, it appearing that Edward Snickers, the
commissary, has already been allowed one shilling per day for the same. ..... .
Resolved, That the petition of Thomas Barnes, praying an allowance for 42 days service in collecting and selling
the country's horses and cattle, and in adjusting and settling many accounts in col. Ingles's brigade book, which was
laid before the commissioners, is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought to be allowed the sum of 10/. as a reward
for his services aforesaid. .
Resolved, That the petition of Thomas Lawson, praying to be allowed for two oxen employed in carrying pro-
visions to the mouth of Quantico, in Prince William county, for the use of the militia ordered out in defence of the
country, which fell down the bank of the river by accident and were killed, is reasonable, and that the petitioner ought
to be allowed the sum of 12/. for the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the 3d and 4th resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
On a motion made, .
Resolved, That if any person within this Commonwealth shall purchase more salt imported into the same than
he hath occasion of for the use of his family for one. year, and shall refuse to sell the surplus, or demand a greater price
than will be sufficient to reimburse him the first costs thereof and charges, and 15 per centum loss of measure, every
person so offending shall be held and deemed an enemy to this State.
Ordered, That Mr. Carter do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Starke, from the committee to whom the case of Isaac Thomas was referred, reported, that the committee
had, according to order, had the same under their consideration, and had agreed upon the following report and reso¬
lutions thereupon; which he read in his place, and. afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were
again twice read, and agreed to.
It appears to your committee, from the information of col. Russell, major Shelby, and Mr. Madison, and from
a certificate of col. Christian, that the said Isaac Thomas, being a resident in the Cherokee towns, did at sundry
times, and at the risk of his life, come into the frontier inhabitants and give information of the intended incursions of
the Indians, by which early notice the inhabitants had time to fort themselves, procure ammunition, and otherwise
provide for their security, insomuch that, in the opinion of the informants, the lives of many hundred people had
been saved. .
Resolved, That for the great and essential service rendered this country by the said Isaac Thomas he ought to
receive a reward of 100/.
Resolved, That the consideration of the losses sustained by the said Isaac Thomas be deferred till more satisfac¬
tory proof can be made to a future session of Assembly relative thereto.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do carry the first of the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
An engrossed bill For making provision for defraying the expenses of erecting fortifications, and for other
purposes therein mentioned, was read a third time, and the blanks therein filled up.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Treasurer carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
Mr. Talbot, from the committee to whom the bill To empower the Governour and Council to employ persons
for working the lead mines to greater advantage, was committed, reported, that the committee had, according to
order, had under their consideration thesaid bill, and had made several amendments .thereto; which he read in his
place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice read, and agreed to.
Ordered, That the said bill, with the amendments, be engrossed and read a third time.
Whereas a requisition from the Hon. Continental Congress, for the building six row gallies for the protection of
the continental troops in their transportation over the different rivers in Virginia, was laid before the last Convention,
and as several row gallies, of the same construction and size with those in Delaware river, have been lately built here,
very proper for such purpose, but unfit for sea service:
Resolved, That it be an instruction to the Delegates from this Common wealtfr to make an offer of six of the said
gallies ready built and equipped to the Congress, for the aforesaid purpose of protecting and transporting their troops,
and .that the commissioners for naval affairs furnish the said six row gallies accordingly, and settle the price of them as
nearly as possible at what they cost this Commonwealth.
Resolved, That the Governour be desired to write to the Maryland Council of Safety, to inform them that four
£a Iea ? iteigbty °fid feet keel, intended for the protection of Chesapeake bay and the adjacent cape and coasts, are
now uilaing in Virginia, and in great forwardness, and that the General Assembly have directed four more gallies,
muc arger than the former, to be immediately built and equipped for the same purpose; and conceiving that the in-
a itants of Maryland are equally interested in a measure calculated for the mutual defence and advantage of both
countries, have no doubt of the hearty concurrence and assistance of their sister State in supplying their proper quota
ot galhes to act in concert with those belonging to this Commonwealth.
Resolved, As it is essential to the safety of the American cause that the Southern States should be speedily put
on such a respectable footing as may enable them to resist the attempts of the common enemy, that therefore the
103
Georgia officers be permitted to raise as many men in this Commonwealth as shall be sufficient to complete the quota
o corrinen a roops requited from that State, under the like restrictions as were heretofore imposed on the officers
itom wuth Carolina who have been permitted to recruit men in this State.
r ere , hat Mr. Mason do carry the three foregoing resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
_ icesolvea, I hat the following allowances be made to the officers of the General Assembly :
To the reverend Thomas Price, chaplain, - . . _ _ £ 60
To Mr. John Tazewell, clerk of the House of Delegates, - 250
To MY. John Pendleton, clerk of the Senate, - - - 4 „ 100
To Nit. Edmund Pendleton, clerk of the Committees of Propositions and Grievances and Privileges and
*■ Elections, - - . _ _
To Mr. Hind Russell, clerk of the Committee of Publick Claims, - _ _ HO
To Mr. John Beckley, clerk of the Committees of Courts of Justice and of Trade, - - 60
To Mr. William Dandridge, clerk of the Committee for Religion, - - - 60
To Mr. Francis Eppes, serjeant at arms, - . - - _ 75
To William Page, and William Rose, jun. door-keepers to the Senate, each, - - 35
To Robert Hyland, John Creagh, William Hicks, and William Drinkard, door-keepers to the House
of Delegates, each, - - - _ . 35
Tq Mr. Benjamin Powell, for cleaning the Capitol, - - - . 10
Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
'Resolved, That 500/. per annum be allowed to Mr. Aleeeander Purdie, publick printer, to continue to the end
of the nex| session of General Assembly, as a full consideration for printing the journals of the Assembly and the laws
of each, session, and sending as many copies of the laws as there are acting justices in the commission in each respective
county, and one other, which is to be half bound, for the use of the court, and ten to the clerks of the courts of Hus¬
tings in the city of Williamsburg and borough of Norfolk, and printing inspectors' receipts and books, proclamations,
and publick advertisements.
Resolved, That the clerks of the Council and Navy Board be allowed for their respective services after the rate
of 150/ per annum each, to be paid quarterly.
'Ordered, That Mr. Lee do carry the said several resolutions to the.Sanate for their concurrence.
Ordened, That the letter from the committee for the county of Northampton be delivered to the members for the
said county, to be by them laid before the Governour and Council.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House making an offer of the six gallies built
* in tills State to Congress, for the purpose of transporting the continental troops,—desiring the Governour to write to
| the Council of Safety for the State of Maryland requesting their concurrence and assistance in the protection of
Chesapeake Bay and the adjacent cape and coasts,—-for allowing Thomas Barnes 10/. and Thomas Lawson 121.—
for permitting the officers from Georgia to recruit soldiers in this State,—for settling the disputed boundary between
this State and Pennsylvania, without any amendment; also to the resolution to prevent the engrossing of salt, with
amenc||nents, to which they desire the concurrence of this House. And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then
withdrew.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
.Mr. Speaker, "
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled Jin act to make provision for defraying the ex¬
penses of erecting fortifications, and other purposes therein mentioned.
And t®. the resolutions for paying the several officers of the General Assembly, clerk of the Council, clerk of the
Navy Board, publick printer, and to Jlrthur Boush and Samuel Boush, the several sums of money therein men¬
tioned, also to the resolution for the delivery of a negro man slave to Hezekiah Holliday with his hire.
They have also agreed to the bill intituled An act for extending the powers of the Commissioners of Oyer and
Terminer, and for other purposes therein mentioned, with amendments, to which they desire the concurrence of this
House; and h^delivered the same in at the bar, and.then withdrew.
■The House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of the country; and
after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had,
According to order, had under their consideration the state of the country, and had come to the following resolutions
thereupon, which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to. -
Whereas the king of Great Britain hath waged war against this Commonwealth and the United American
States and there are within this Commonwealth divers merchants and others, subjects of the said king, who, while
they remain here, have frequent opportunities of seducing and corrupting the minds of the people, and are suspected
of holding correspondence with and giving intelligence to the enemy:
Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the Governour and Council be desired to cause all such persons to depart
thi Commonwealth, by immediately putting in execution the statute staple of the 27th of Edward III. chapter 17th,
a 1S" t all the natives of Great Britain who were partners with, agents, storekeepers, assistant storekeepers, or clerks
104
here for any merchant or merchants in Great Britain, at the time the act of the British parliament for restraining
the trade of America, and seizing our- property upon the water, took place, except only such of them as have here-
tofore uniformly manifested a friendly disposition to the American cause, or are attached to this country by having
wives or children here; and such subjects of the said king as shall satisfy the Governour and Council that they have
not been able to procure other means of departure, may have their passage to any foreign port, in such vessels em¬
ployed in the service of this Commonwealth as the Governour and Council shall direct. And that all, or any of them,
who shall be found here after the time respectively allowed them to depart, shall be confined as enemies, and prisoners
of war. And for furnishing the Governour and Council with proper information, the justices of the several county
courts are empowered and required immediately to make inquiry for all such subjects of the said king residing within
their"respective counties, and, after due examination had, to cause a list of their names to be entered upon record, and
direct their clerk to transmit a copy thereof to the Governour. And that a copy of this resolve, together with a copy
of the aforesaid statute staple, be forthwith printed in the Virginia Gazette.
Ordered, That Mr. Treasurer do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow proceed, by ballot, to the appointment of a member of the Navy
Board in the room of George Webb, Esquire.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Matthews.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for paying 100/. to Isaac Thomas; and
he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, proceeded, by joint ballot with the Senate, to the appointment of
Naval Officers for the districts of Accomack and Northampton; and having exchanged with them lists of the persons
to be ballotted for on each occasion, and appointed committees from this House, jointly with committees from the
Senate, to examine the boxes on,each ballot, the following persons were duly elected, that is to say:
Isaac Smith, Esq. for the district of Accomack.
Isaac Avery, Esq. for the district of Northampton.
The House took into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the bill intituled An act for ex¬
tending the powers of the commissioners of Oyer and Terminer, and for other purposes 1 herein mentioned; and
the said amendments being twice read, were, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Starke do acquaint the Senate therewith.
Resolved, That the farther appointment of naval officers and military officers be put off till to-morrow.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from John Smith, Esq. of the county of Frederick, informing him
that one hundred volunteers were ready to march to the assistance of general Washington, if they could obtain the
sanction of government; which being read,
Resolved, That this House have great pleasure in observing with what cheerfulness and alacrity the volunteers
in the county of Frederick have offered their service to join the continental army under his excellency general Wash¬
ington, at a time they supposed important and critical; but as it is very probable that the enemy have retired into
winter quarters, the House would not wish their brave countrymen to march such a distance in this inclement season
under a doubt whether there will be occasion for their services, but will rely on and call them forth if such an occa¬
sion should happen, in which case the Governour and Council are hereby empowered to put the same company of
volunteers, and their officers, upon the pay of this Commonwealth, with the same allowance of rations and forage as
the other troops in the service thereof.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, December 19, 1776.
The House, according to the order of the day, proceeded, by joint ballot with the Senate, to the appointment of
naval officers for the several districts of Elizabeth river, the lower district of James river, York river, Rappahannock
river, South Potowmack, a commissioner of the navy in the room of George Webb, Esq., auditors of publick ac¬
counts, a colonel of the continental troops in the room of Samuel Meredith, Esq., and a colonel of the first battalion
of intantry raised for the internal security and defence of this country; and having exchanged with the Senate lists of
the persons to be ballotted for on each occasion, and appointed committees from this House, jointly with committees
to°say* KGnate' t0 exara'ne boxes on each ballot, the following persons were reported to be duly elected, that is
John King, Esq. naval officer for Elizabeth river. Jacob Wray, Esq. for the lower district of James river.
aquein m er, Esq. for York river. Hudson Muse, Esq. for Rappahannock river. Charles Lee, Esq. for the
district ot South Potowmack. 1
Edward Archer, Esq. a member of the Navy Board, in the room of George Webb, Esq.
omas iverard, James Cocke, and Jacob Bruce, Esquires, auditors of publick accounts.
jJ*],?171 Russell, Esq. colonel of the continental troops, in the room of Samuel Meredith, Esq.
th e cm1 \ °m rayson> T c°lonel of the first battalion of infantry raised for the internal security and defence of
105
A message from the Senate by Mr. Carrington.
Mr. Speaker, '
r . ^e Senate are willing Lewis Burwell\m. Esq. should be appointed naval officer of the upper
district of James river, without ballot; and then he withdrew.
The House taking the said message into consideration,
r Resolved, That the said Lewis Burwell be appointed naval officer of the upper district of James river.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That the Governour be desired, with the advice of the Privy Council, to appoint proper persons to
inquire into the conduct of the keeper of the publick jail, and if he shall appear, upon such inquiry, to have misbe¬
haved, that he appoint another in his stead, to continue in the said office until the meeting of the next General
Assembly.
An engrossed bill, To empower the Governour and Council to employ persons for working the lead mines to
greater advantage, was read a third time.
Resolved, That the said bill do pass, and that Mr. Talbot carry the same to the Senate for their concurrence.
^ The House took into consideration the amendments proposed by the Senate to the resolution of this House for
preventing the engrossing of salt; and the said amendment was read,"and is as follows:
Line 7th, after the word costs, insert on the purchase from the importer, and leave out the word thereof in
the same line.
^ The said amendments being read a second time, were, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
> Ordered, That Mr. Carter do acquaint the Senate therewith.
v Whereas it is apprehended that there will be a great scarcity of beef and pork, and that the contractors and com¬
missaries for the American armies will be unable to provide sufficient magazines for the great number of troops now
raising for the next campaign, unless a timely stop is put to the exportation; and as an embargo in this commonwealth
(unless similar measures are adopted by the other United States) will be inadequate to the purpose:
Resolved, That it be an instruction to the Virginia Delegates to apply to the Hon. American Congress, and
use their utmost endeavours to procure that the exportation of beef, pork, and bacon, may be immediately prohibited
throughout the United American States, for such limited time, and under such regulations, as shall be judged proper;
land that the Governour be desired to transmit to the said Delegates a copy of this resolve by the next post, or by the
first safe conveyance.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee. •
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House for putting in execution the statute sta¬
ple of the 27th of Edward the 3d, chapter 17th; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Resolved, That it be recommended to the several county courts that they proceed to carry into execution the said
resolutions in the month of January next, or as soon after as possible.
& A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the bill intituled An act to empower the Governour and Council to
employ persons for working the lead mines to greater advantage.
Also to the resolution recommending to our Delegates in Congress to endeavour to obtain a resolution of that body
to prohibit the exportation of beef, pork, and bacon.
Also to the resolution empowering the Governour and Council to appoint proper persons to inquire into the con¬
duct of the keeper of the public jail. And he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Mr. Prentis reported, from the committee appointed to examine the enrolled bills, that they had accordingly
examined the same, and corrected such mistakes as appeared therein; and that they are truly enrolled.
Ordered, That Mr. Prentis do carry the. said bills to the Senate for their inspection.
Resolved, That the Governour, with the advice of the Council, be desired to fill up the vacancies of field officers
which may happen in the fifteen continental battalions directed to be raised in this Commonwealth according to seni¬
ority in the whole line, and that the preferment of the captains and subaltern officers be confined to the several bat¬
talions to which they belong, having the same regard to seniority.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Holt.
SpEAKEKj
The Senate have examined the enrolled bills, and find them truly enrolled; and he delivered the
same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Resolved, That the reverend William Bland be appointed to attend the criminals in the publick jail who shall
' be under condemnation.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Mason.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolutions of this House desiring the Governour to fill up the
vacancies of officers in the continental battalions; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
27
106
Ordered, That Mr. Braxton hare leave to be absent from the service of this House for the remainder of the
session.
Ordered, That there be a call of the House to-morrow, at 9 o'clock.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House appointing the reverend William Bland
to attend the criminals in the public jail; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
Resolved, That the farther appointment of officers be put off till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 9 o'clock.
FRIDAY, December 20, 1776.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from Lewis Burwell, jun. esq. declining to accept the appointment
of naval officer; which being read,
Resolved, That this House will this day proceed to the appointment of a naval officer in the room of the said
Lewis Burwell, and that Mr. Bullitt acquaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Ellzey.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House empowering the Governourand Council
to pay what shall appear to be due to John Goodrich and company for goods purchased of them for the publick service;
and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House, according to the order of the day, proceeded, by joint ballot with the Senate, to the appointment of
colonels to the second and third battalions of infantry raised for the internal security and defence of the country, of
lieutenant colonels and majors to the three battalions, and of a naval officer for the upper district of James river in the
.room of Lewis Burwell, esq. and having exchanged with them lists of the persons to be ballotted for on each occa¬
sion, and appointed committees from this House, jointly with the committees from the Senate, to examine the boxes
on each ballot, the following persons were reported to be duly elected, that is to say:
James Duncanson, esq. colonel of the second regiment. Thomas Blackburn, esq. lieutenant colonel. Wil¬
liam Brent, ]un. esq. major. *
Philip Love, esq. colonel of the third regiment Gregory Smith, esq. lieutenant colonel. Charles Dabney,
esq. major.
Haynes Morgan, esq. lieutenant colonel of the first regiment. Nathaniel Cocke, esq. major.
Beverley Dickson, esq. a naval officer for the upper district of James river.
Resolved, That Joseph Prentis and Edmund Randolph, esquires, be appointed commissioners to take deposi¬
tions in the city of Williamsburg relating to the claim of Richard Henderson and company depending before the
General Assembly, and Daniel Smith and William Campbell, esquires, added to the commissioners in the county
of Washington.
Ordered, That Mr. Bullitt do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for appointing persons to take depositions
relating to the claim of Richard Henderson and company; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
On a motion made,
Resolved, That this*House will immediately resolve itself into a committee to take into their consideration the
state of America.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee; and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker
resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, according to order, had under their conside¬
ration the state of America, but not having time to come to any resolution thereupon, had directed him to move for
leave to sit again.
Resolved, That this House will to-morrow resolve itself into the said committee.
Ordered, That there be a call of the House to-morrow, at 9 o'clock.
Resolved, That the farther appointment of ofpcers be postponed till to-morrow.
Adjourned till to-morrow, 9 o'clock.
107
SATURDAY, December 21, 1776.
Tfiat to enable the officers in the troops of horse, as well as thq privates who are ordered to join his
Excellency (jeneral Washington, to carry their necessary baggage and clothing, one waggon be allowed to every two
troops tor that purpose, and that the subaltern officers of the said troops be each of them allowed to draw forage for
one horse, over and above what was formerly allowed them.
Ordered, 1 hat Mr. Penn do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
* _**es°tvedi That the Treasurer of this Commonwealth do take the most expeditious and secure method of remitting
to Mess. Norton and Sons, merchants in London, the balance due to them for bills of exchange drawn by the late
Treasurer under the order of the late House of Burgesses for the purchase of necessaries for this country, unless they
are willing to receive the whole, or part thereof, in current money, at 50 per centum exchange.
Ordered, That Mr. Jones do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
For the ease and relief of the people on the frontiers,
Resolved, That the following gentlemen be, and they are hereby appointed to collect all the militia claims, as
Welti for provision and other necessaries as the pay of the men late on duty, except such as were on the expedition
• against the Cherokees, and administer oaths and take depositions for supporting the said claims, where necessary: For
that part formerly called West Augusta, Robert Wood, Esq.; for Augusta county, Samuel M'Dowell, Esq.; for
Botetourt county, John Bowyer, Esq ; for Bedford, Pittsylvania and Henry, Charles Lynch, Esq.; and for Mont-
and Wishington, Thomas Madison, Esq.; and that the said commissioners do convey their accounts and
Vouchers respectively to the auditors to be by them properly adjusted, and warrants granted to the said commissioners
respectively to receive the sums due the several claimants within their several districts aforesaid, they giving bond
and security to the Governour for the use of this Commonwealth for the due application and payment thereof to the
several claimants. And that the said commissioners be allowed 10s. per day for their services, for the time they shall
be employed in that business.
Ordered, That Mr. McDowell do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
The House| according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee on the state of America; and after
some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Treasurer reported, that the committee had, ac¬
cording to order, had under their consideration the state of America, and had come to the following resolutions there¬
upon;-which he read in his place, and afterwards delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were again twice
read, and agreed to.
It being of the utmost importance that the nine battalions heretofore raised in this Commonwealth, and now in
continentaUservice, should be completed, and the six new battalions for the same service, as well as the three batta¬
lions on tlmpay of this Commonwealth, raised with all probable expedition:
Resolved, That it be earnestly recommended to the justices, the members of the county committees, the militia
i officers, and the other good people of this Commonwealth, to use their best endeavours to forward and encourage the re-
Fcruiting service, upon which the safety and happiness of their country so much depends.
r And whereas the present imminent danger of America, and the ruin and misery which threatens the good peo¬
ple of this Commonwealth, and their posterity, calls for the utmost exertion of our strength, and it is become neces¬
sary for the preservation of the State that the usual forms of government should be suspended during a limited time,
for the more speedy execution of the most vigorous and effectual measures to repel the invasion of the enemy:
Resolved, therefore, That the Governour be, and he is hereby fully authorised and empowered, by and with the
advice and consent of the Privy Council, from henceforward, until ten days next after the first meeting of the General
Assembly, to carry into execution such requisitions as may be made to this Commonwealth by the American Con¬
gress for the purpose of encountering or repelling the enemy, to order the three battalions on the pay of this Com¬
monwealth to march, if necessary, to join the continental army, or to the assistance of any of our sister States, to call
forth any and such greater military force as they shall judge requisite, either by embodying and arraying companies
or regiments of volunteers, or by raising additional battalions, appointing and commissioning the proper officers, and
to direct their operations within this Commonwealth, under the command of the continental generals, or other officers
according to their respective ranks, or order them to march to join and act in concert with the continental army, or
the troops of any of the United American States, and to provide for their pay, supply of provisions, arms, and other
necessaries, at the charge of this Commonwealth, by drawing on the Treasurer for the money which may be necessary
from time to time; and the said Treasurer is authorised to pay such warrants out of any publick money which may be
ia.his hands, and the General Assembly will at their next session make ample provision for any deficiency which may
happen. But that this departure from the constitution of government, being in -this instance founded only on the most
evident and urgent necessity, ought not hereafter to be drawn into precedent.
Resolved, also, That the Governour be desired to transmit by express copies of these resolves to the American
Congress, and to the neighbouring States of Maryland and North Carolina, to satisfy them that we are exerting
ourselves in defending the liberties of America.
Resolved, That our Delegates be instructed to recommend to the consideration of Congress whether it may not
be necessary and expedient, in the present dangerous and critical situation of America, in order to give vigour, expe¬
dition, and secrecy to our military measures, to invest the commander in chief of the Ame/icon forces with more
ample and extensive powers for conducting the operations of the war; and that they will earnestly exhort the different
108
Legislatures of the United American States to adopt the most speedy and effectual methods for calling their military
force into action, and co-operating with the generals of the American armies.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason do carry the said resolutions to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Lee.
Mr. Speaker, ..
The Senate have agreed to the several resolutions of this House for allowing one waggon to every
two troops of horse. .1
For paying to John Norton and Sons the money advanced tor the use ot this country, without any amendments.
They have also agreed to the resolution for appointing commissioners to collect the claims of the militia on the
frontiers, with an amendment, to which they desire the concurrence of this House. And he delivered the same in at
the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the said amendment, and the same was read, and is as follows: Line 9th,
leave out the words Robert Wood, and insert Thomas Brown.
The said amendment being read a second time, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. M'Dowell acquaint the Senate therewith.
Whereas it hath been recommended to the good people of this colony to enter into associations for the support of
the wives and children of the poor who shall enter into the several battalions now raising in this Commonwealth, and
whereas it is not certain that sufficient sums will immediately be subscribed for the purposes aforesaid:
Resolved, That the courts of the several counties be required, and they are hereby empowered, to furnish the
wives and children of such poor soldiers who cannot be maintained by such associations with necessary provisions, and
to draw on the Treasurer for such sums of money as shall be requisite, who is hereby required to pay the same.
Ordered, That Mr. Griffin do carry the said resolution to the Senate for their concurrence.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Henry Lee.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House for giving additional powers to the Gov-
ernour and Council, and for other purposes therein mentioned, with an amendment, to which they desire the concur¬
rence of this House; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew.
The House took into consideration the said amendment, and the same was read, and is as follows: Page 2d, line
5th, leave out the words the usual forms of government should be suspended, and insert additional powers be
given to the Governour and Council.
The said amendment being read a second time, was, on the question put, agreed to by the House.
Ordered, That Mr. Mason do acquaint the Senate therewith.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Jones.
Mr. Speaker,
The Senate have agreed to the resolution of this House providing for the wives and children of
the soldiers; and he delivered the same in at the bar, and then withdrew
Adjourned until the last Thursday in March next, then to meet in the city of Williamsburg, or at such other
place as the Governour and Council, for good reasons, may appoint.