Wrecked!
In a letter to General Gage, Major Ogilvie expressed his concerns over the wreck, the local population, troubles with the natives of the region, and the survival of the colony itself.

Letter From Major Ogilvie to General Gage

13 May 1764,

"Sir,
I have the Hon'r of Your Excellency's letter, I am extremely sorry to acquaint you that the Industry Transport, Commanded by Captain Lauranes (sic) was unfortunately cast away off the Bar of St. Augustine the 6th Inst. Sent all boats in this Post out to her Assistance ordered a Guard to take care of the wreck, fortunately sav'd six Boxes of Money some Flower and carpenter's tools. Shall send a Return of them to Col. Robertson in order to lay it before you. Now Sr. I ant by leave to observe that this Post must be ruined & undone if their is not some step taken to put a stop to the Villainous proceedings of Loseing Vessels on the Bar here which are insured above their value: I am told that Capt. Laurences's Vessel was insur'd, he never sent to acquaint me that he was off, by that means the (Reg't (?)) was lost, not having Boats to bring him in. The Inhabitants of East Florida consist of a set of People who have absconded from other Colonies for Debts & other Causes, as the wreck was greatly scattered along the coast it was impossible for the Guard to extend itself so far, so that the inhabitants have taken a great many of the King's Arms, propose making a search in order to see if I can detect any of them... If I do I shall be glad to know from your Excellency whether or not my power extends so far as to make an example of some of them, which would be absolutely necessary for the good of this Colony, have sent express the sloop Anne to acquaint you of this disaster. A Mr. (Furst ?) informs me that the Creek Indians are very tardy in giving Satisfaction for the murder they have Committed in the back Settlement of a South Carolinian. In case an Indian War the small artillery are absolutely necessary for the defence of the advanced Posts, you may be assured I'll do everything in my power for securing these Posts in the best manner possible..."



Previous