Newbern, September 19, 1777.
A few Days ago we received an Account from the Bar, that two English Brigs, one a very large one, the other mounting 10 or 12 Guns, were arrived within the Bar, and had taken several Vessels which lay there, particularly a large French Brig. There were many Vessels there ready to go out, but the chief of them escaped by running up into the Rivers again. The utmost Dispatch is making here to drive these Sheepsteelers from whence they came, for tis supposed the fat Mutton on the Banks has been the chief Temptation to this desperate Manoeuvre. The Sturdy Beggar Privateer, of 14 Carriage Guns and 100 Men, the State Brig, Pennsylvania Farmer, of 16 Guns and 80 Men, and the Heart of Oak, a Sloop of 10 Guns and 50 Men, belonging to this Town, are preparing to sail with all Expedition, in Quest of the English pirates.