A Letter from Portsmouth, dated Jan. 16, says, "Yesterday was discovered, by the removal of some Hemp, in the great Hemp Warehouse at our Dock-yard, a Piece of Wood hollowed out, and filled with combustible Matter (which was covered with Tin full of Holes to admit Air) and a Tube and Match at each End. This Instrument had been conveyed under some refuse Hemp, in order to set fire thereto. There is Reason to suppose the Match had been; lighted, but providentially went out before the Machine took fire. This fully convinces us that the late dreadful Fires were perpetrated by some diabolical Incendiaries. 'Tis hoped such Measures will he taken as may prevent these Calamities in future, and such Inquiries be made as may lead to Conviction and Punishment of the Offenders."
Dr. Franklin quitted England three Years ago. He was then seventytwo Years of Age. He is now, at the Age of seventy-five negotiating an Affair, on which the Fate of an Empire may depend, with the most politic Court in Europe. This is neither a Sign of Enthusiasm, nor of Dotage.
