An express came here yesterday, informing that several vessels, particularly two belonging to this place, have been taken by provincial privateers, so stationed in the mouth of the river, that nothing can pass them. Such as attempt to run, they sink them. The master and crew of one of the vessels that was taken the other day have come to town; they were allowed to come on shore, but their cargoes and vessels were, as they understand, sent to France, with some other prizes, under convoy of two of the privateers; but a privateer of 20 guns, well armed, and about 100 men on board, still remains in the river, not far from Greenock, where she is expected every night. The Council met yesterday, and have resolved to fit out three vessels, one of 16, one of 14, and one of 12 guns; for which purpose a subscription paper was set a-going about twelve o'clock; and about two o'clock when it came to be subscribed by Collector P——, with whom I was then in company, I observed no less than 2900 1. sterling subscribed for. A committee is appointed for superintending the equipment; a commodore and captains are already named; and though this be Sacrament Sunday, the drums are beating for·seamen to serve for one month only, by which time it is expected that Government will send armed vessels to clear the coast. About 100 sailors are already enlisted; 600 stands of small arms are come down from Dunbarton, and plenty of stores and ammunition. The vessels are already victualled, and they expect to have 150 able-bodied sailors, besides the military from Glasgow, ready to go on board, and sail this evening or to morrow morning.
