John L. DeWolf, Esq., of Boston, has complete files of “The Boston Weekly News-Letter,” for the years 1744 and 1745; and we are indebted to him for the use of them. The following are specimens of some of the advertisements of the time:—
“To be sold, a likely Negro boy about 12 years old: enquire of the printer.”
“To be sold by the Province Treasurer: Good Winter Rye, which may be seen at the Granary, on the Common” [Park street].
“A fine negro male child to be given away.” [There are numerous advertisements of slaves and negroes.]
“To be sold, a Good Dwelling-House, situate near the Green Dragon, in the Main street, with a large tract of Land for a Garden, a good Well in the Cellar and other conveniences. Enquire of Daniel Johonnot, Distiller.”
Elizabeth Macneal advertises “a likely young negro girl;” “also some Household goods to be sold.”
Josiah Jones advertises his man servant, 19 years of age as a runaway, “having on an old ragged Coat, a good Check’d Shirt and Trowsers, a Pair of Black Callamanco Breeches, a pair of Gray Yarn Stockings, and a new Pair of Shoes.”
“The Gentleman who borrowed a Blue Great Coat at the White Swan, about three weeks past, is desir’d to return the same forthwith: the Person whom he borrow’d it of, thinking he has had it long enough.”
“This is to inform the Publick, That the Cold-Bath in the Bath-Garden, at the West End of Boston is in Beautiful Order for use. It is a living Spring of Water, which the coldest Season in Winter never affects or freezes,” &c.