We learn from an unquestionable source, that in the latter end of March, a young man was dispatched by Augustus J. Foster, in disguise, to East-Florida, to reconnoiter the ground, to have an eye upon the American troops, and to discover whether they intended to interfere with the affairs of Amelia Island. This spy was at Amelia Island and St. Mary's and on his return through Sunbury in Georgia, breathed the purport of his mission to a Scotch Presbyterian, the Rev'd Mr. Boggs who had expressed some favorable sentiments for Old England.

Mr. Boggs is said to have given no further encouragements to this respectable representative of his Satanic Majesty – but communicated the fact to one or two of his flock. Among others it reached the ears of a Mr. Wilkins, who indignant at this clandestine enterprise, resolved to give the spy the reception which he deserved; but on seeking him the bird was flown, having narrowly escaped a new coat of tar and feathers.

Let us be on our guard against such wretches as these. Our country perhaps at this critical moment teems with them. We have no police, as they have in France, no Bow-Street officers as they have in London, the vigilance and virtue of our countrymen must be out best sentinels.

Source:
Eastern Argus, Portland, Maine, June 25, 1812, Page 3

Submitted by Bob Franks