CHAP. XVII.

An Act for disposing of the publick stores of gunpowder in the Magazine in the city of Williamsburg.

I. WHEREAS it is represented to this present general-assembly, by the inhabitants of the city of Williamsburg, that a large quantity of gunpowder is constantly kept in the publick magazine in the said city; which, being left entirely unguarded, may be of dangerous consequence, as well to the publick in general as to the said city in particular.

II. Be it therefore enacted, by the Lieutenant Governour, Council & Burgssses, of this present General assembly, and it is hereby enacted, by the authority of the same, That from and after the passing of this act it shall and may be lawful to and for the governour or commander in chief of this colony for the time being, and he is hereby desired, to cause the said gunpowder, or such part thereof as he shall judge necessary, to be sold and disposed of for the best price that can be got; and one moiety of the money arising from the sale thereof shall be to our sovereign lord the king, his heirs and successours, for and towards the better Support of this government, and the contingent charges thereof; and the other, moiety thereof shall be paid to the treasurer of this colony for the time being, to be accounted for to the general-assembly.