[Extract]

I suppose you have not yet heard of a late Instance of the independent Spirit and Resolution, which has always characterized the People of this County, or at least but an imperfect Accountー

On the Beginning of last Week, a ship belonging to Mr Gildred of Liverpool, was grounded near West River; ー upon Examination it was found she contained upwards of 4000 Bushels of Salt and considerable Quantity of Cheese & dry goods; ー The Committee, as you will find by the Enclosed, determined she should go [to] Baltimore; but the ever to be revered and glorious People, in whom virtue can always [torn]

to their Liberties, by an immediate Conflagration. Accordingly a neighbouring Company headed by their Capt., and a number of others went on board and set fire to both Ship & Cargo, which in a few Hours were consumed. Every thing, I am informed, was destroyed, except some Cheese belonging to the Commander, he having about 50 in number, 20 of which they permitted to savg. The Ship had not long, been burning, before the magnanimous Baltimoreans arrived with a professed Design to execute the glorious Deed, in which they had been anticipated. They brought the owner's Son with them from Baltimore, that he might share a Stewarts Fate.²

I have been told the Capt. declares that he remonstrated to the owners in England, and predicted the fatal Event, but was answered by Him, that 10,000 men were destined for America, and would settle the Difference before her Arrival. ー The poor Fellow was mistaken. ー This has been the Conduct of the Marylanders, who I hope will adorn the Annals of Fame.