Jan. 9. 1776.
The detested town of Norfolk is no more! Its destruction happened on New Year's Day! About four o'clock in the afternoon the signal was given from the Liverpool, when a dreadful cannonading began from the three ships, which lasted till it was too hot for the Rebels to stand on their Wharfs. Our boats now landed and set fire to the town in several places. It burnt fiercely all night, and the next day; nor are the flames yet extinguished; but no more of Norfolk remains than about twelve houses, which have escaped the flames!
1. Lloyd's Evening Post and British Chronicle, March 4 to March 6, 1776.