The Providence journal, and town and country advertiser (Providence [R.I.]), 1801-09-16 00:00:00

The Providence Journal
AND
TOWN AND COUNTRY ADVERTISER.
Published on WEDNESDAYS, by JOHN CARTER, JUN. Printer of the LAWS of the UNITED STATES for the State of RHODE-ISLAND, &c. At the NEW PRINTING-OFFICE, West Side of the great Bridge, PROVIDENCE.
[No. 142.]
WEDNESDAY, September 16, 1801.
[Vol. III.]
Young Seamans
HAS just received, by the Schooner Mary, from Bourdeaux, and offers for sale, on liberal terms, 30 pipes old French Brandy, of an excellent flavour 40 casks of Claret Wine. 40 casks do. 24 bottles each 40 boxes of Cordials, 12 bottles each 120 baskets Annifed 140 bags of Coiks 1 hoghead Verdegreafe 2 boxes fashionable Paper-Hangings. September 9.
Turks-Island Salt,
LANDING from on board the Schooner Jerusha, and for sale, by CHARLES SHELDON, South End. Sept. 8.
A large range of Stores.
TO BE SOLD OR LET, A LARGE range of Stores, formerly the property of Messrs. JOSEPH and WILLIAM RUSSELL, merchants. They are, perhaps, better calculated for Wholesale Stores or Auction-Rooms, than any in Providence. Enquire of the Printer. September 9.
Take Notice.
LOST, on Thursday last, a black leather POCKET-BOOK, containing 35 dollars in Bank Notes, one Due-bill on SIMON ALDRICH, to the amount of 60 dollars, and one Note on Mr. SAMUEL YOUNG. Whoever will return the said Pocket-Book to the Subscriber shall receive Five Dollars reward. JOSEPH NEWELL. Smithfield, September 8.
WHEREAS a Commission of Bankruptcy, under the Hand and Seal of the Hon. DAVID L. BARNES, Judge of the District Court for the District of Rhode-Island, is awarded and issued against EZRA FARRAR, late of Upton, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Trader, and he being declared a Bankrupt, is hereby required to surrender himself to us the undersigned Commissioners, on the 5th and 26th Instant, and on the 17th Day of October next, at nine o'clock in the forenoon of each day, at ALPHEUS AMMIDON's Golden-Ball Inn, in Providence, and make a full discovery and disclosure of his Estate and Effects; when and where the Creditors are to come prepared to prove their debts, and at the second meeting to choose Assignees; and at the last meeting the said Bankrupt is to finish his examination, and the Creditors are to assent to or dissent from the allowance of his certificate. All persons indebted to the said Bankrupt, or that have any of his effects, are not to pay or deliver the same but to whom the said Commissioners shall appoint. PARIS J. TILLINGHAST, } Com'rs. JOSEPH JENCKES, } GEORGE R. BURRILL, } Sept. 4.
NOTICE.
THE subscribers having been, on the 27th day of August last, legally appointed Commissioners, to receive and examine the claims against the Estate of RICHARD BROWN, late of Providence, in said county, mariner, deceased, represented insolvent:—Hereby give notice, that six months is allowed from the date, for the creditors to bring in their claims to us; those who neglect will be precluded according to law. JOHN SMITH, 2d. SILVANUS G. MARTIN. N. B. All indebted to said Estate, are requested to make immediate payment to ABBY BROWN, Administratrix. September 2.
Take Notice.
THE Creditors to the Estate of EZRA BALLOUE, of Gloucester, in the county of Providence, deceased, are informed, that one year from the Seventh of February last is allowed by the Honourable Court of Probate for exhibiting claims against said estate:—Therefore, all who have any, are requested to exhibit them within that time, and all who are indebted to the estate are called upon to make payment to the subscribers. PHEBE BALLOUE, } Administratrix. JIRAH BALLOUE, } Gloucester, August 25.
From the BALANCE.
A MODERN PATRIOT DISSECTED. THE bulk of mankind, from the days of Adam to the present generation, have been easily duped by the crafty and designing. They have been beguiled by flattery, and gulled by empty professions. A man of fortune or of parts, however void of real merit, who would artfully flatter the people, has generally been rewarded with their confidence, and sometimes with their adoration. Such a successful adventurer for popular favour was John Wilkes. Few men in modern times have been so extensively celebrated as he was, for pure devotion to the interests of the people.
About thirty years ago, the name of Mr. Wilkes was famous, not only in Britain, but also throughout the British American Colonies; insomuch that a pocket handkerchief or a snuff-box was hardly saleable, unless it exhibited the patriotic motto of "Wilkes and Liberty."
I remember that, about that time, I saw a little ragged boy, standing by a Liberty-pole which had been erected on the memorable occasion of the American Stamp act. As I was passing the pole, the little fellow observing me, pulled off his old hat and threw it into the air, exclaiming with all the strength of his lungs, "Wilkes and Liberty, huzza." In those days, any man who should presume to have questioned the patriotism of John Wilkes, might have incurred the danger of a broken head. And indeed I must confess, that I myself partook of the general phrenzy, and in a measure idolized that renowned demagogue, that precious "Man of the People." Long ago, I saw my error, and having had leisure and opportunity more fully to examine the merits of the political Dagon, to which I once bowed the knee, I communicate to the public, in authentic documents, the result of this examination, as a useful lesson to all who have eyes to see, and ears to hear.
Mr. Gibbon, the celebrated historian, in the memoirs of his own life, writes as follows:—"This day (Sept. 23, 1762) Colonel Wilkes dined with us. He told us himself, that in this time of public distention, he was resolved to make his fortune. Upon this principle (to make his fortune) he has connected himself closely with Lord Temple, and Mr. Pitt, and commenced a public adversary to Lord Bute, whom he abuses weekly in the North-Britain and other political papers in which he is concerned."
This document, this confession to a bosom friend, develops the political character of Mr. Wilkes. His object was, to make his fortune. This it was that enkindled the ethereal fire of patriotism in his soul. This it was that directed his tongue and pen. His political career began with a warm and spirited attack upon the administration of Lord Bute. In that blundering administration, there were easily found objects enough for censure and invective; but in the mean time, if Wilkes could have had better prospects of gain or promotion in writing for Bute than in writing against him, he, doubtless, would have supported that minister's measures; for his aim was, to make his fortune.
While Mr. Wilkes was vilifying the administration of government, he at the same time took a prudent care to flatter the people, and make the warmest professions of an affectionate attachment to them, and an entire devotion to their interests.
In the British Gentleman's Magazine, for the year 1770, there is a copy of a letter of Mr. Wilkes, that was to be communicated to the citizens of London, in which he wrote as follows:—"I have Sir, a real pleasure in finding out and following the opinion of the people. I will through life be faithful to their cause, I firmly and sincerely believe the voice of the people to be the voice of God. I wish always to hear it clear and distinct. When I do, I will obey it as a divine call, with spirit and alacrity, fearless of every consequence, and dutifully submitting my own private opinion."
Behold the man! See how his patriot heart distends with a pure and ardent love to the people! And the people, on their part, bless him with ten thousand tongues, and even iron lungs are worn out or ulcerated in vociferating his praises.—At his approach, they throw up their hats and caps, and fill the air with shouts—unharness his carriage, and putting themselves in the place of the horses, draw him with their own hands through the streets; or else carry him triumphant on their shoulders. Indeed he was a shrewd man, and none knew better how to ride upon the people's shoulders.
At length the day of recompence came, Wilkes obtained the chamberlainship of the city of London, worth, it has been said, seven thousand pounds sterling a year. His fortune was now made; the fire of patriotism in his breast instantly ceased to glow, and his sovereign contempt of the people soon appeared.
When afterwards Lord George Gordon undertook to act the demagogue and head a vast and riotous multitude, Mr. Wilkes was a most zealous and active supporter of government, and in person led out the posse comitatus, to suppress the rioters. Nay, he even went so far, as to say that if power were given him, he would not leave a single rioter alive.
The King and ministry, in recompence of his zealous attachment, freely forgave his former political heresies and iniquities; and he lived and died in the pale of the political church—an orthodox believer in and supporter of the measures of administration.—Peace to his ashes!—I would not have disturbed them but for the public good.
These sketches of the political character of Mr. Wilkes may be instructive in the present age.—In all the different periods of the world the intrigues of ambitious men, and the arts of popular deception, have been much the same.—And whenever we see a man blowing the trumpet to proclaim his own patriotism—flattering the people and professing towards them an unbounded affection and an entire devotedness to their views and interests, we may justly suspect that he intends to make his fortune. HISTORICUS.
From the TELEGRAPHE.
Reflections on the present spirit of parties.
THE scurrilities that have been so freely vendeed of late, against all ranks of men, must give extreme concern to those who have a real regard for the welfare and the constitution of this country, and who unblinded by passion, unbiased by interest, cannot bring themselves to receive the teemings of a distempered brain, the effusions of an envenomed pen, or the ravings of a rancorous heart, for so many sacred truths. According to the present stile of public writers, or rather writers to the public, we are to be alike dissatisfied with all men, and with all measures, applaud and condemn the same things, when they are supposed to be the work of different persons, and losing all real sense of what may conduce to our happiness, or turn to our prejudice, bid a final adieu to public, in order to adopt private and party spirit. Before we do this, however, it may not be amiss to consider what the consequences may be to ourselves, and what dependence we can have upon the protection of the laws, and the operations of the constitution, when the government (that is those who exercise it) are deprived of all respect, which is the sole support of legal authority.
In such a situation we cannot surely expect, that men of sound parts, unfeigned virtues, and true magnanimity, will step forth and take the reins of power, when they are sure of meeting obloquy and abuse, not from the conduct they pursue, but from the station in which they stand; on the contrary, none, while this is the case, but men of unbounded ambition will aspire to power, and none will be employed by them in the exercise of it but the tools of party. The certain, necessary, and indubitable consequences of this, must be a series of political convulsions, a continued succession of officers, acting upon the same principle, and from that mutability of measures which flow from hence, never ending jealousies, heart-burnings and clamours, which will keep us in one perpetual scene of state discord and confusion. When there is no stability at home; when men are taught to decry peace, while peace continues; to express their abhorrence of war, whenever war shall be apprehended; to treat every measure of government as a mode of tyranny, every tax, however necessary or reasonable, as insupportable oppression, and every appointment or removal, as big with fatal consequences to the people, and justifying every measure of oppression, what respect can we possibly suppose will be had to us abroad, how shall we expect our treaties should be maintained when in such a situation? Whatever of this kind may happen, and while we continue disposed to listen to whatever is published by the partisans of one party to the prejudice of another, and by their recriminations again, under colour of defence; we may, in the rage of resentment, and from a spirit of spleen, attribute it to the men in office under whom it happens; yet our posterity will most undoubtedly place it where it ought to be, placed, to the account of ourselves. The sole remedy for this dangerous evil, the only shield that can defend us from the mischief that must attend it, is a return to reason. We must resolve to examine every thing we hear, and to receive nothing upon simple affirmations, unattended with positive proofs. We must not conceive that every man who is in office is for that reason unworthy of an office, or that every man that rails is for that reason a patriot and a friend to his country. If men in power oppress, the constitution has prescribed remedies, and they should be pursued; but to excite general odium against men, merely because they are in power, is to deprive them of the capacity of doing us good, whatever their intentions may
be.—But if we resolve to turn a deaf ear to all these violent inuendoes before it is too late, we may happily preserve our liberties, and grow to be a rich, powerful, and virtuous nation; but if we persist in sporting with the character of our Chief Magistrate, treating government with ridicule, and receiving as facts the foulest aspersions; for these must naturally degrade and debase us; a wise, and public spirited people, will listen only to the voice of truth, and will decide only from the dictates of justice, without condemning the most abandoned criminal, unless his crime appears.
From the NEW-ENGLAND PALLADIUM.
QUID PRO QUO.
UPON the first ballot of the House of Representatives for a President, the suffrages of six States were in favour of Mr. Burr, three more votes would have made him President; those of Mr. Lynn, of New-Jersey; Mr. Dent, of Maryland; Mr. Claiborne, of Tennessee, would have elected Mr. Burr President of the United States; and it was at one time confidently expected that he would be elected. Mr. Dent's constituents were deeply interested in the election of Col. Burr; many of them assured him of this fact, and to their entreaties that he would support Mr. Burr, added a threat, that should he vote for Mr. Jefferson, they would not re-elect him to Congress. A majority of Mr. Lynn's constituents, with all his immediate friends, deprecated the election of Mr. Jefferson, and multitudes of letters were written to Mr. Lynn to that effect. Mr. Claiborne knew that all the federalists of his State were friendly to the election of Mr. Burr, and many of the anti-federalists hostile to the project of the Virginia faction, which was either to have Mr. Jefferson President, or not to have any President. The position of Messrs. Lynn, Claiborne, and Dent, made it probable they would either vote for Mr. Burr the first ballot, or finding the first was not a conclusive vote, and also finding that the Virginians could not be indulged in their preference, would then unite with the supporters of Mr. Burr; Lynn, Claiborne and Dent disappointed these, and by adhering to their original votes, and adopting the Virginian motto, "Jefferson or no President," they obliged the federalists, whose sacred regard for the constitution would make them prefer having any man President, rather than hazard the loss of our national government, by not having a President, to suffer Mr. Jefferson to be chosen. Such on this important occasion was the conduct of the disinterested and public spirited Dent, Lynn and Claiborne. What has since been the conduct of the grateful Mr. Jefferson? He has appointed Claiborne a Governor, Lynn a Supervisor, and Dent a Marshal. To enable him to settle his account with Mr. Claiborne, he turned out of office Governor Sargeant, of the Mississippi Territory, an old war-worn soldier, who went through the whole of our revolutionary struggle, who was honoured with the confidence and friendship of the great Washington, and who is highly respected by all who know him. To reward Mr. Lynn, the President (in defiance of his fine flourishes about "equal and exact justice to all men, of whatever political persuasion") turned out of office the Supervisor of New-Jersey. He is a most deserving man, and a most excellent officer; but our good President had strong reasons for dismissing him; he had been a supporter of the Washington administration, and the Washington policy; and he held an office which since Mr. Lynn, and Mr. Lynn had been promised an office, and Mr. Lynn wanted this office, and although great men in Virginia are not obliged to pay their debts, yet they always pay their debts of honour, and Mr. Jefferson regarded his debt to Mr. Lynn as a debt of honour, and Mr. Lynn regards Mr. Jefferson as a most honourable and a right honourable man.
Late Foreign Intelligence.
By the arrival at New-York, of the Happy Couple, Capt. Wyeth, from Gibraltar.
Naval Action off Algezas.
GIBRALTAR, July 10.
THE French squadron, consisting of three line of battle ships and one frigate, stated in our last to have entered the Bay, proved, agreeable to our information at the time, to be part of Admiral Ganheune's squadron, under the command of Rear Admiral Lenois. The ships of the line are the formidable, L'Indomptable and Le Delta. It was reported that their object was to join the fleet at Cadiz, for the manning of which they had about 2000 men on board more than their complement. On Saturday morning the wind having come to the eastward, they again stood into the Bay, and came to an anchor in front of Algezas; the frigate being close in shore on the southern part of the

town—The next day they altered their position, and moored in a line of battle, about a cable and a half distance from each other, in which situation they remained until Monday morning the 6th inst. when, the signal being made for a squadron from the W. we had the pleasure soon of perceiving it was an English squadron, and of ascertaining it to be Rear-Admiral Sir James Saumarez, in the Cæsar, with five of his ships.
The front of Algeciras is defended by various batteries of heavy guns, on the island, as well as upon the banks to the north and south of the town; the first from which crosses before the town and harbour, and intersects in front of the French ships, taking in flank any assailants who might approach them. The anchorage here is also extremely dangerous, the whole harbour and island being surrounded by reefs of sunken rocks. In short, it was imagined that, even had there not been a single man of war in that harbour, no hostile ship would have, the boldness to venture to come near the port, or expose itself to the dangerous obstructions which both nature and art had provided for the security of this place: But no danger can appal or discourage our intrepid tars when the enemy appears to be within their reach.
We beheld with admiration, though not without anxiety, the English squadron haul up directly for the French ships. The Venerable, under the command of Capt. S. Hood, led the line, according to his orders, with his usual address, and passed the batteries, and the French ships, without returning their fire until he arrived at his station. The French ships opened their fire at 25 minutes past 8 o'clock. The English were to come up in the following order, as directed by the Admiral:
The Venerable, To lead in, and pass the enemy's ships, without coming to anchor. Pompee, To anchor abreast of the inner ship of the enemy's line. Audacious, To anchor abreast of the enemy's ships and batteries. Cæsar, Spencer, Hannibal,
All this appeared to be executed, as far as the sudden failure of the wind would permit. At 35 minutes past 8, the action commenced by the Pompee and Audacious; at 9 the Cæsar opened her fire; a quarter of an hour afterwards she passed the Venerable and came to an anchor. At 35 minutes past 9, the Spencer opened her fire, and soon afterward the Hannibal. The roar of cannon was about this time incessant and tremendous; and the fire was returned with spirit by the French Admiral; who, however, as well as the two other French ships, ran close in upon the shore, and apparently grounded. About half an hour past 10, the fire from the enemy's batteries on shore became so galling to the Cæsar and Pompee, that it was judged necessary to order them to cut and make sail. The Pompee was so much injured in her masts and yards, that the signal was made to tow her out of the action. About 12 o'clock the Hannibal was discerned, through the smoke, close to the French Admiral, and there was great reason to hope that a few minutes would have brought her alongside of his ship, when the contest would have been probably terminated in the surrender of the latter; but unfortunately the Hannibal at this critical instant grounded, immediately opposite to the battery on the north of the town. She, notwithstanding, kept up her fire on the French Admiral; but under such disadvantages, the valor of her officers and crew could not avail. Being completely exposed to the fire from the battery on shore, Captain Ferris had the misfortune to see a considerable number of his brave crew killed and wounded, before he would consent to strike his colours. The wind being now entirely failed, and the British Admiral finding it totally impracticable to bring any of his ships near enough to those of the French, found himself (at 35 minutes past one o'clock, P. M. after an action of five hours, with very little intermission) under the necessity of withdrawing his force, excepting the Hannibal, which being ashore, he was obliged to abandon to the enemy; to whom however we do not conceive she can be of any service.
We have great reason to believe that the French ships have suffered severely by this attack, that it will be a considerable time before they can be fit for sea, if at all repairable; and so far Sir James Saumarez has attained his object. For our part, we must observe, that the daring and valiant character of Britons was most nobly displayed in this arduous conflict, which would have been crowned with more complete success, had not the breeze failed. It is not in the power of mortals to command the elements; but men who are capable of seeking glory in the midst of such perils, will have the good wishes and admiration of their countrymen on their side, and must at last triumph over every foe.
So uncommon an event to the French is the capture of a British ship, that their exultation will have no limits; but had not the Hannibal grounded on a strange coast, she would have given a very good account of the French Admiral's ship.
The town of Algeciras did not suffer materially.
July 17.
In addition to the account of the action of the 6th, as narrated in our last, we have the following:
Extract of letter from an officer on board the Admiral's ship, the Cæsar.
"There is one point which needs explanation; namely, when the Cæsar cut, at half past 10 o'clock, it was from a fine breeze springing up, and the hopes of closing with
the enemy; orders for that purpose were given to the Audacious and Venerable; the Cæsar wore round them, and brought her broadside to bear upon the Indomptable's bow, lying there (about three cables length distant from her) a considerable time, with the foretopmast to the mast. The Audacious bringing up a breeze from the N. W. passed between us and the enemy, who, in this part of the day, suffered materially, his foretopmast going at 6 minutes before twelve o'clock. Shortly afterwards both the Audacious and Cæsar were becalmed upon the broadside of the Indomptable, without being able to bring one of their guns to bear, the Cæsar not more than 3 cables' length from the island battery, and the Audacious still nearer; both ships drifting in upon the reef. It was at this time that Sir James Saumarez formed the resolution of attacking the island, with the marines. Boats were signalled for the purpose; but being all employed with the Pompee, or sunk by the enemy's fire, it was found impracticable. A breeze again sprung up, and Sir James directed his ship to be laid along side the Indomptable, in the firm resolution of carrying her. The sails were trimmed for that purpose, as well as the crippled state of the masts and rigging would allow, but a calm again ensued. The Venerable had never received the breeze from the time of her cutting, and still lay unmanageable. The Spencer had drifted considerably to leeward, in repairing her rigging. At 35 minutes past one, the Admiral finding it impossible to approach the enemy, who were now hauled close in shore (having nothing to attend to but their guns, whilst on our side, it required the greatest alacrity to get a gun to bear, from the constant change of position) discontinued the action."
[By the official return it appears, that of the English, there were 7 officers and 114 seamen, &c. killed; and 15 officers, and 125 seamen, &c. wounded. Of the officers killed, the highest was Lieutenant Williams of the marines. The French had 184 killed, and 306 wounded.]
[Immediately following the above returns in the Gibraltar papers, are the Spanish Admiral's orders to his fleet, on the day previous to the action of the 12th and 13th of July. By these orders it appears, that the three ships which sustained the attack of the English squadron on the 6th of July, were so far re-fitted as to be able to join the Spaniards. Thus joined, the combined squadron consisted of the following heavy line of battle ships, viz. St. Ferdinand, St. Antonio, Hermenegeld, Formidable, Royal Charles, Indomptable, Argonauta, Desaix, and St. Augustin: besides two frigates and a cutter. This fleet is commanded by Admiral Juan Joaquin Moreno.]
July 10.
Yesterday a combined French and Spanish squadron entered Algeciras. It consists of two Spanish three-deckers, and two two-deckers, and a French 74, and two frigates. They were this day joined by another Spanish 74.
Another Naval Victory.
GIBRALTAR, July 17.
In our former Chronicle we stated the arrival at Algeciras of the Spanish squadron intended to act in conjunction with the French; and our readers will recollect we then observed, that "their trusting themselves out of port, is generally the prelude to a British victory." And we have now the satisfaction of announcing the accomplishment of this prediction.
It was upon Sunday the 12th of July, at noon, that we saw the combined squadron get under sail. The side of this mountain was covered with spectators of this formidable squadron, as it advanced in battle array, through the Bay towards the Straights. A sudden burst of applause amongst the crowd directed attention towards the New Mole, where the five English ships under Sir James Saumarez, the Thames frigate and Calpe sloop, were spreading their sails, and in motion to encounter this greatly superior force.—As the night closed upon us, we could just discern the enemy's fleet steering over towards the African shore, and the English bearing down upon them, when both fleets disappeared from our view. The heavy cannonade and explosions were, however, heard distinctly during the night, and occasioned no small anxiety, till the return of the Admiral, with his prize, a Spanish 74 gun ship, bearing a French Commodore's broad pendant.
The long prevailing westerly winds have prevented any direct intelligence from Egypt arriving at the Rock—but rumours from all quarters concur in stating, that Menou and the French army in Egypt have capitulated to the English. They also say that the other part of Admiral Gantheaume's squadron has fallen in with Sir John B. Warren, and has been roughly handled. A letter from Madrid affirms, that the conquerors of Portugal are determined upon assaulting Gibraltar!!!
COURT OF KING'S BENCH.
LONDON, July 24.
A person by the name of Hessel, who had become a Bankrupt, and on his examination before the Commissioners in the country, not having answered satisfactorily, he was committed by them, and on the motion of Mr. Topping, he was brought up to the Court of King's Bench, who after having examined his books, and heard Counsel on both sides, ordered him to be remanded.
Lord Kenyon observed, that he must go before the Commissioners again, and explain to them the reason of the erasures in his books, on which the name of one Smith,
who had dealings with him, was written, as well as the alteration of several dates.
The Court, after perusing the questions and answers, on account of which he was committed, thought the answers not satisfactory. They did not with this gentleman should go out of Court with any suspicions on his head. But they desired him to go honestly and fairly before the Commissioners, and tell them all he knew.—Remanded.
Domestic Intelligence.
NORFOLK, August 31.
Captain Watson, from Nantz, informs, that he learnt from the most undoubted authority, that Portugal had made peace with France and Spain; that in almost every port a large number of troops were embarked on board ships of war, destined for Egypt, the French having determined on sending a number of small squadrons, hoping that out of the many, some might reach there. In the port of Nantz 5000 men were embarked. Capt. W. also states, that every sea port is blockaded by the British cruisers; that provisions were extremely plenty; the old and young men were returning to their homes from the armies, and the people generally were contented with the present government.
PHILADELPHIA, September 5.
Extract of a letter from an officer on board the frigate Philadelphia, Capt. Barron, dated off the rock of Gibraltar, July 17, to his friend in this city.
"We arrived at Gibraltar on the 1st inst. in good health. We found there the Grand Bastard's (Lord High Admiral's) ship of war, and a brig. We continued at Gibraltar only two days. Our Commodore (Dale) in the President, with the Experiment, went up the Straights on a cruise; the Essex, Captain Bainbridge, took a fleet under convoy, and we are to cruise at the mouth of the Gut for the Tripolitan Admiral, and should be dare to venture out, we shall surely take him. —On the 28th of June, off Cadiz, we were boarded by a British fleet of 6 sail; and on the 30th, going up the Gut, we met three French line of battle ships. On the 5th of July the English squadron came up from Cadiz, and an engagement ensued, which lasted, with desperate fighting on both sides, for four hours.—In the evening we were informed that the English had lost one ship, the Hannibal, and had gone into the Gut, while the French had put into Algeciras.
"On the 12th instant, at night, to windward, we discovered a great smoke, and heard a violent explosion. It proceeded from a second engagement between the English, French and Spaniards. We learnt that during the action two Spanish ships of 112 guns each blew up. After which the English engaged and pursued the remaining part of the fleet, which put into Cadiz. On the 15th, going up the Gut, we observed in every direction the floating remains of the wrecks, &c."
* These were doubtless the Admirals, Real Carlos, and the S. Hermenegildo.
Extract of another letter from an officer on board the Philadelphia, dated July 20.
"In the action of the 5th, the British lost the ship Hannibal, of 74 guns, and 14 gun-boats—in the whole 180 men killed, and 300 wounded. The greater part of the latter have died of their wounds.—Seventeen Danes and Swedes were sunk at their anchors in Algeciras, where they lay; one poor Yankee rode it out. In one of the forts the Spaniards would not fire on the British—the French went on shore, and put every man to the sword. On the 13th, another action took place between the French, Spaniards and English. The Spaniards, when they discovered the English, got into confusion, and two 3 deckers got foul of each other—they cried out enemy! and began firing at one another. In a short time they took fire, and both blew up. There were but 96 men saved from both ships, out of 3000; the rest of the Spaniards run, and left the French ships (3) to fight 5 English. The headmost of the English brought too the sternmost of the French. An English 74 was soon dismasted; by that time two more of the English came up—the Frenchman struck—the other two got into Cadiz. At one time the French Admiral had four English 74's upon him, and beat them off!
"There are a number of Americans here; one of them challenged the Tripolitan Admiral out to fight him; but the latter would not accept the invitation; he is afraid to leave Gibraltar."
NEW-YORK, Sept. 4.
The cargo of the ship Lydia, Elihu Smith, master, belonging to William Roach and Son, New-Bedford, bound there from St. Peterburgh, and burnt at sea, consisted of, 6300 poods Iron, 10 pieces Drillings 4439 Hemp 115 do. Flems 613 Outshot 262 do. Ravens Duck 630 Flax 748 do. Sail Cloth 601 Linseed Oil 27 do. Table Cloths 95 Cordage 72 do. Napkins and 48 Tongues.
It is said that a Pilot has lately discovered a worm in Hampton Roads, that in the course of one summer will eat through the bottom of any vessel, though coppered. It grows to an incredible size; it is said he opened one lately that had gorged itself, and an ounce and three quarters of copper was discovered in the inside, deposited in a small bag or gut—ships will do well not to stay too long at anchor there in the summer and fall season.
September 5.
Captain Rogers, of the Maryland sloop of war, and Mr. Puryance, arrived at Washington on Saturday last, with dispatches from France to our Executive, which were forwarded to the President at Monticello.
September 10.
TESTIMONY OF RESPECT.
Richard Varick, Esq. having been removed from the office of Mayor, by Governor Clinton and the Council of Appointment, and Edward Livingston appointed in his stead, the Federal Republican Lawyers of this city, in testimony of their respect for Mr. Varick, gave him a public dinner on Tuesday, at the Belvidere. The guests invited with him, were Judge Patterson, Mr. C. Morris, Judge Benon, Judge Hobart, and Mr. R. Benon. Col. Robert Troop officiated as President, and John Wells as Vice-President. After dinner, which did much credit to Mr. Hyde, the following toasts were given:
1. FLOREAT LEX, the text—A faithful and intelligent administration of a government of LAWS, the exposition—always the Lawyer's first toast. 2. The President of the United States. 3. The Governor of the State. 4. The memory of WASHINGTON—May the American people not cease to remember "that the destiny of the Republican model of government is justly considered as deeply, perhaps as finally, staked on the experiment entrusted to their hands." 5. Our brother, JOHN JAY, eminently the man of truth, of practice corresponding with profession—"To regard my fellow-citizens with an equal eye, and to cherish and advance merit, wherever found, are obligations of which I perceive and acknowledge the full force." 6. STEPHEN VAN RENSSELAER, our late Lieut. Governor—Beloved by his friends, respected even by his enemies. 7. Our brother, RUFUS KING—May our nation and its Representatives be ever the pride of each other. 8. National Union, the Citadel of our hopes—May it stand firm against the shocks of party rage. 9. The Constitution—Each citizen's Castle. 10. Our Revolution—The principle of it, a contest for constitutional right; the spirit of it, an union of courage, integrity and love of country. 11. The Federalists of 1778—Good sense, and good zeal, in the cause of good government. 12. The temple of Liberty—May its faithful votaries vigilantly guard it against the covert workings of demagogues, no less than against the open assaults of tyrants. 13. Sir JOHN DAVIES' Opinion—"The greatest honours belong of right to the greatest virtues." 14. The nullum tempus to prosecutions for offences against THAT LAW which distinguishes between principle and profligacy, between character and infamy. 15. May our governments, in dispensing offices, consider themselves as the fountains of honour, not of profit. 16. Rich rewards of public sympathy and esteem to the virtuous martyrs of political persecution.
By Mr. Varick. —My brothers, the Federal Republican Lawyers of the city of New-York—Their estimation a prize of infinite worth, beyond either the gain or the distinction of office.
Mr. Varick having retired, the company drank—RICHARD VARICK, our late Mayor, the discerning, active, independent, upright Magistrate—May his services ever be held in grateful remembrance.
By Judge Patterson. —Self-government, the basis of national honour.
By Judge Benon. —"The palm to justice to hold the first, the second, the third places in the whole work of government."
By Judge Hobart. —May it never happen in the United States, that an aged Lawyer shall have occasion to say, "But for a Deliverer to my country, I should have out-lived the Law."
By Mr. Morris. —May the bar never want the protection of government, nor their fellow-citizens the protection of law.
By Mr. R. Benon. —Obedience to the will of the government, the great duty of every citizen.
By the President. —That one of the parceners should take the entire inheritance for outlying of partition—New Law.
By the Vice-President. —Our absent brother, ALEXANDER HAMILTON—He hath been "testimonied," and hath appeared "to the envious a scholar, a statesman, and a soldier."
Extract of a letter from Gibraltar, dated the 15th of July—Received at Philadelphia.
"It is with pleasure I communicate to you the arrival of your brig and cargo in safety the 11th inst. On the 10th, we were boarded by three Spanish gun-boats, all which finding our papers clear for Barcelona, released us. The same evening, as entering Gibraltar Bay, almost within gun-shot of the town, we were brought too by another Spanish privateer, who carried us into Algeciras, but it being late in the evening, anchored us about two miles from the town. The Spaniards were all exultation, and swore to the validity of their prize; and most certainly that would have been irredeemable, had not Providence interposed, and given us the means of rescue from the destructive clinch of these licenced robbers.
"The captain, who was in possession of our papers, and two men only, were left in command of the brig. At 11 o'clock the wind veered round to the eastward, and blew very hard; the night dark and hazy; the

Spanish were fearful of our going ashore, having our anchors, and fully exposed to the wind. Observing their consternation, I requested captain Michaels to confirm their suspicions; to tell them the vessel dragged her anchors, and was going fast ashore; and to advise them to put to sea and keep off the harbour till day light, when they could carry us to Algeziras in safety. They approved this, and we weighed our anchor and put out to sea, not, however, with any intention of going back to Algeziras, if we could avoid it. We made two stretches to the Barbary shore (the wind being ahead) under cover of the night. At day-light, we found ourselves on the east of the rock, which the Spaniards perceiving, suspected our views, and took the helm. We soon, however, divested them of their arms and authority. Our good fortune equalled our wishes, and we arrived here at 6, A. M. on the 11th, with all our papers and prisoners. We procured an order for the release of the prisoners, with liberty to pass the lines to Algeziras. We have retained their cutlasses, which we will bring with us as trophies of our victory. "The American squadron arrived some time before us, and failed again the 4th inst. so that we were deprived of that desirable object, although the brig is to be convoyed up."
It appears from a certificate published by the collector at the port of Louisville, that 58,200 barrels of flour had been entered in his office for exportation, from the first of January last, up to the 8th of July; and that it was supposed 20,000 barrels more had passed the falls within the same time, without being entered by the owners.
HARTFORD, September 8. On the night of last Thursday, about 12 o'clock, we experienced the most remarkable gale of wind which has happened in this town within our recollection. The gust was violent, but continued only a few minutes, attended with heavy thunder and considerable rain. The wind blew with such violence as to tear up several trees, and burst in the windows of several houses. In its progress it tore off about one half of the roof of the City Hall, and also the roof of the house of Mr. Jonathan Root, which latter building was much damaged in other respects.
SPRINGFIELD, Sept. 8. Extract of a letter from the American Consul at Tunis, to his friend in this town, dated Tunis, April 14, 1801.
"This goes by a Ragusan brig, which I charter expressly to carry dispatches to government from our Consul at Tripoli, which announce hostile movements of the Basha of that Regency against the United States. I consider war with him inevitable. He has demanded of our government, as a condition of keeping the peace, TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, cash in hand, and a tribute of TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND annually. Terms incompatible with the interest and honour of the United States. He has undoubtedly been prompted to this demand by having lately received this price of peace from Sweden. I do not recollect ever hearing Sweden quoted as authority for the decisions of any of our Legislative or judiciary bodies—hope we shall not on this occasion go so far out of the way for precedent. The concessions of the smaller Christian nations of Europe to these Regencies of Barbary would be unaccountable if we did not see them always embarrassed with some tea-table bickering among themselves, which require all their checks and balances at home—thank Heaven, the United States are infinitely removed from these embarrassments; why then should we come, cap in hand, and kiss the feet of these pitiful savages? If once paying and once slopping would ensue us permanent peace, we might submit for once; but this is not enough: These pirates are insatiable as the grave, and if we continue to countenance and feed their pretensions, the revenue of the United States will be inadequate to satisfy their avarice. What is to be done? The answer is simple and explicit—Either yield unconditional concession to their claims, or straighten ourselves up a little and look them out of countenance. By some means or other my countrymen in general have imbibed a kind of terrific idea of these people; so they did of the savages of our forests till they made themselves acquainted with them. They are very capable of murdering women, robbing merchantmen, and fighting Italians; but, like our Indians, when manfully opposed by regular forces, they are weak and contemptible. All the maritime force of Tripoli could not live two hours before one well sought 44 gun frigate. This is not mere presumption; it is but a short time since one ship of the line of Portugal laid the Basha of Tripoli under contribution in his own capital. But, unfortunately, we began by paying for peace, and until we alter our mode of negotiation here, these Beys will consider as the result of fear what they should be taught to consider an act of grace. We are tranquil at Tunis. Though my first year's agency was a perpetual warfare here, being drawn into a cross fire between Algerine Jews to whom I came consigned, and a reprobate Frenchman who had insinuated himself into our affairs. At present, perhaps, no foreign agent is better received at this court than the American, even notwithstanding the delays of our treaty stipulations. The Bey of Tunis is a man of good understanding and a mild character; but he is artful and avaricious—he seldom assaults a Christian without first projecting a pretext; and never, where he is conscious of superior force and enter-
prize. It is a misfortune that I have not the means to impress on his mind just ideas of the strength and energy of our government. He made war on the Danes last year which cost the latter a great deal of cash, but no blood. By the best information I can obtain, Denmark will expend nearly a million of dollars, including captures, to pacify this Bey for outrages which he began himself; without taking into the calculation contingencies incident to a flourish of force. This negotiation has been conducted by Commodore Kosford, of smoking memory, who appeared in this road, last winter, in a 64 line of battle ship, a white flag of truce at his foretop-gallant-mast head, and under the convoy of two 44 gun frigates, to treat of peace. After having made suitable concession to the Bey for some manly conduct of which the Consul and a former Commodore had been guilty, he was permitted to subscribe to the Bey's terms, to leave the port safe and sound, and carry away his ship's crew. A few hours, before his departure he was heard to groan for the depravity of our nation, and even articulated that, the United States had spoiled the Barbary States.
SALEM, September 8. TRAGEDY OF ERRORS.
The late naval events in the vicinity of Gibraltar, have furnished several scenes for a Tragedy of Errors. Some English craft mistaking the Spanish squadron in the bay for an English one, bore down upon it, and were captured. After the French had taken possession of the stranded Hannibal, they did not as usual suspend the French flag over the English, but hoisted the English flag Union down; this being a signal of distress, several boats went from Gibraltar to her assistance, and were taken by the French. To complete these mistakes two accounts concur in the subsequent (one received at New-York, by Capt. Wyeth; the other at Marblehead, by Capt. Martin) The two Spanish ships were thus blown up;—the battle being in the night, an English ship running in between two Spanish ships, gave each a broadside, and unseen by the Spaniards amidst the smoke and darkness, dropped astern, leaving her foes to deliver their broadsides at each other; which they did, and continued the combat with fury, until one of them caught fire, and the flames communicated to the other while her boats were humanely employed in the relief of her supposed enemy;—both at length blew up, and none were saved but what had got into the boats. These ships had on board an extra number of hands, destined for other ships at Toulon.
BOSTON, September 11. EXECUTION OF FAIRBANKS.
Yesterday the sentence of the law was executed on Jason Fairbanks for the murder of Elizabeth Fales. At half past 8 o'clock in the morning the prisoner was taken from the gaol in this town and conducted to the county of Norfolk. He was carried in an open coach, and attended by the Rev. Dr. Thatcher. The carriage was preceded by the Sheriff of Suffolk, and his deputies. At the county-line he was delivered into the charge of Sheriff Cutler, who proceeded with him to the gaol at Dedham. Soon after two o'clock he was led to the place of execution on the common, and a few minutes before three he suffered the ignominious punishment ordered for his crime. During all the incidental solemnities peculiar to such an awful occasion, he appeared as insensible of his situation as he did upon the trial;—and made the signal for his own execution by dropping his handkerchief.
The U. S. frigate Boston, failed on Sunday for New-York. She is intended to proceed for France with Mr. Livingston, the American Minister.
Providence, WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16.
NELSON AT WORK AGAIN.
Capt. Dunbar, from London, informs, that on the 5th of August, off Deal, he saw a large fleet, composed of gun-boats, and other vessels, steering towards the French coast; That he understood it was an expedition commanded by Nelson, destined to attempt the destruction of the boats &c: prepared in the French harbours for the reputed purpose of undertaking the invasion of England, and, that on the 6th of Aug. he heard, for a long time, a very heavy cannonade on the French coast. It appears by the papers, that Lord Nelson had been invested with the command of the vessels on the British coast, it was expected he would undertake offensive operations against the enemy. [Boston paper]
The United States frigate Essex, Captain Bainbridge, was spoken July 8, off the Cape de Gatt, bound for Tunis. She had under convoy the ship Grand Turk, of New-London, laden on account of the United States with various articles, agreeably to our engagements with the Tunisians.
Dispatches from Commodore Dale, since his arrival at Gibraltar, have been received by government.
Fairbanks has left, in care of the Rev. Dr. Thatcher, a "Confession," which will be published in a few days.
From a Baltimore paper of August 31. Just as the Maryland left Havre forty-five gun boats failed for Dieppe. Their appearance
was extremely interesting and beautiful; each carried a 24 pounder on the bow, and a 6 pounder on the stern:—They have three masts, besides a great number of rowers on each side; they are decked forward and aft, but in the centre are open, with an awning covering;—below is room for two horses, and each carries 100 soldiers, independent of the boat's crew. The English cruising vessels cannot prevent those boats from sailing close along the shore, to the general rendezvous at Dieppe, Boulogne, Calais and Gravelines, at which places near 1000 gun boats were collected or collecting; at several times five, six, sometimes ten boats, had sailed from Havre together, and had arrived safe at the ports above mentioned. The intention of Buonaparte (as said to be declared by himself) is to embark 100,000 men on these boats, which cannot in a calm night be prevented from crossing the Channel, and then invading England; whilst inferior bodies attempt to co-operate from the harbours of Brest, St. Maloes, &c. Such were the plans, spoken of by intelligent people, at Havre, when the Maryland failed, in case the war continued, and such were the movements of the gun boats, which in some measure correspond with these declarations: here we entertain (and with justice) such enlarged ideas of British naval strength, that we are taught to laugh at all views of invading England, as merely speculative; but to such a man as Buonaparte, elevated by a greater portion of success than any other General the world has yet seen, nothing appears impossible; he knows that the distance between the above ports and England is short. He expects that his troops having landed, every thing will give way before them; and he knows that in a calm the largest fleet is perfectly unable to prevent their passing across the Channel in a few hours. It is said that he calculates upon the loss of 50,000 men in the attempt, but he speaks confidently of the final result being glorious to the arms of France.
It is certain, that had an individual cried up his own merit as much as the democrats have theirs, nobody would have believed him. We should have said at once, that the virtue, which must be proclaimed by its possessor in order to be known, is not worth the having; and for a man to attempt to introduce himself to the esteem of others by boasting of his own justice, wisdom, prudence or patriotism, proves clearly that he has no better evidence than his own declarations to offer. On the contrary, it is generally and very justly received as the strongest negative testimony in the world; for he who knows what these attributes are, knows that the only true evidence of them is the words they produce; whoever, therefore, undertakes to prove himself virtuous by words and not by works, proves himself ignorant of the very nature, essence and effect of virtue. The rogue brags of being honest, from a consciousness that it never will be known unless he tells of it. We may go further and say, that this vain boasting commonly proceeds from a temper of mind directly the reverse of these pretensions; it is often the effect of some vice, seeking to conceal itself under the mask of virtue, for wicked purposes, and ought always to put us on our guard against fraud and imposition. Man never acts without a motive—and it is absurd to suppose he will pretend to be virtuous for virtue's sake, unless he really is so at heart. And his assuming the character for the purpose of placing himself in a situation where he knows the disguise will be seen through, and he be despised for pretending to be what he was not, evinces that he is in pursuit of some object dearer to him than the consciousness of doing good, or the reputation of being honest.
How much are characters to be dreaded, who, regardless of the praise or contempt of others, can pursue their own gratifications at the expence of all that makes man amiable and beloved, and having gained their point, can sit down satisfied, and feel a perfect indifference as to what the world thinks of them. If these things be true in private life, why not in public? If any one will presume to say, that they are less applicable to the party now in power than to an individual, let him shew it.
Is not the interest of a zealous partisan, whose favourite object is to be obtained through the success of his party, an individual interest? Is he not under the temptation of using intrigue, duplicity and false pretences to merit, for the double purpose of advancing the cause of his party, and of rendering himself one of the deserving subjects, among the many, who are to receive and enjoy the sweet, promised reward of the faithful? Is this temptation lessened by his chance of dividing the responsibility among his coadjutors? Does he not retain his own prejudices, and imbibed those of his fellows, till the mind of each becomes an epitome of the whole? Kept in countenance by each other; they assume a boldness of language that makes wuth ashamed. Declaration passes for argument—assertion for fact—and adherence to their party is patriotic, and federalism is the unpardonable sin. Thus interested individuals give a tone to the party they belong to; they are the organs through which it speaks; they dictate its principles—and its sentiments will ever be of a complexion with the minds in which they originate. And thus too a party is liable to have the designs, the vices, and the hypocrisy of its individual members manufactured into a garment for the whole.
Where then, and on what do we repose a confidence that the great promises of public good will be performed, or the expectations of those who have credulously swallowed the deceitful bait, be realized? and what can we think of those who tell us with repeated and astonishing assurance, that "peace, harmony and
good will," are in fact established among us by our "just and wise administration," when we see, and feel, and know, that the peace and harmony of the good citizens of our country have been more disturbed than at the time of the revolution? [Alb. Cent.]
THE MR. JOHN QUINCY ADAMS, Esq. late Minister from the United States at the Court of Berlin, has arrived at Philadelphia from Hamburg.
A negro man was lately burnt in the county of Knox, State of Tennessee, for the murder of Mrs. Sarah Crawford.
Anecdote of Madame Dacier. This lady, in her celebrated literary controversy respecting Homer, is said to have received such severe chagrin, that although she exploded much of it in her writings, it abridged her days, and soured her disposition. She practised a most persevering course of study, and did not stir from her house six times a year. After passing every morning in her study, she descended in the evening to receive the visits of her friends, and men of letters piqued themselves in attending the levee of this literary queen.
The manner by which she discovered her genius for the learned languages is remarkable. Her father educated his son, and his greatest wish was to see him excel in a critical knowledge of languages; but he grievously lamented his little application. Miss Le Fevre (afterwards Madame Dacier) then not more than ten years old, was a daily witness of the vexation of her erudite father, and the sorrows of her brother, who never could bring himself to relish Latin, like his father. One day when her father had been in a violent passion with her brother, Miss took him aside, and made a fine harangue in favour of Latin studies, and the duty he owed to papa. Old Le Fevre listened to the conversation, and calling his daughter aside, asked if she felt a taste for study; she replied, she thought nothing was more admirable than a Latin grammar. The grey-headed pedant embraced her in rapture, put a grammar into her hands, and Miss was a pedant in as short a time as ever pedant yet took to become Greekified. The brother then caught fire at the illustrious example of his sister; he applied himself vigorously to study; they emulated each other, commenting on all authors with great learning and little taste (the brother had really not a solitary atom) and at length found themselves at the head of the European learned.
Married, In this town, Captain John Anthony, to Miss Eliza Williams.
Mr. Andrew Williams, jun. to Miss Lydia Spencer.
At Boston, on the 6th inst. by the Rev. Dr. Lathrop, Mr. Samuel Ames, of this town, Merchant, to the amiable and accomplished Miss Ann Checkley, daughter of the late John Checkley, Esq. of Boston.
Died, In this town, on Friday morning last, Mrs. Elizabeth Eddy, relict of the late Mr. Jeremiah Eddy, aged 101 years, 3 months and 2 days. It may justly be said of this aged lady, that through life she possessed many of the best of qualities, and above all, that of a sincere christian; she was a member of the Baptist Church seventy-seven years. Her funeral was attended on Sunday afternoon, by a numerous train of her progeny, down to the fourth generation. The corpse was conveyed to the Rev. Mr. Snow's Meeting-House, where a discourse adapted to the occasion, was delivered before a large assembly by the Rev. Mr. Gano; after which her remains were deposited in the burying-ground at the westerly part of the town.
On Monday last, Mrs. Mary Earl, consort of Captain John Earl. Her funeral will be attended this afternoon at 2 o'clock, from her husband's house at the north end of the town, where the friends and relations of the deceased are requested to attend without further notice.
Sales of Wollen and other GOODS At Auction.
To-morrow, being the 17th inst., will be Sold at Public Vendue, at Benjamin Hoppin and Son's AUCTION-ROOM,
without reserve, for approved notes, payable in five months, the following articles of fresh imported Woollen GOODS, viz.— TWO Bales of coarse, fine and superfine Broadcloths, of various colours; Three Bales of coarse and fine Plains, of various colours; Two Bales of Cassimers and Serges, ditto; One Bale of striped Orleans Cloths, suitable for Ladies wear, ditto; One Bale of Flannel, ditto; One Bale of Baizes, ditto; One Bale of Tammies, Durants, Russels, &c. ditto; One Trunk of Patent Worsted and other Hosiery; One Case of Brown Hollands, One Trunk of Shawls, One Trunk of Calicoes, One Trunk, containing Silk-laced, clock'd and other Hosiery; Ladies black Silk and French Kid Glove Silk Shawls, &c. Twenty Pieces of fine Cotton Cambrick, Twelve Pieces of Irish Linens, Thirty Packs of Pins, &c. &c. Sale to begin at half past nine o'clock in the morning, and continue until completed. September 16.

Selected Poetry.
From a late ENGLISH MAGAZINE.
The following stanza, recently written by that celebrated genius and traveller, Governor Henry Ellis, on seeing an infirm old man treated by a young rabble with indecent mockery in the streets at Pisa in Italy, a country where every inanimate vestige of antiquity is viewed with so much veneration, have been translated abroad into French and Italian, and are well worthy of being preserved.
THE mould'ring tower, the antique bull, The ruin'd temple's sacred dust, Are view'd with rev'rence and delight; But man decay'd, and sunk with years, And sad infirmities, appears An object of neglect and slight!
Ah, thoughtless race! in youthful prime You mock the ravages of time, As if you could elude its rage! That piteous form which you despise, With wrinkled front and beamless eyes, Thar form, alas! you'll take with age.
Some vital sparks, that ev'ry day Time's rapid opinion sweeps away, Prepare you for that hapless state, When left and slighted in your turn, Your former levities you'll mourn, And own the justice of your fate.
From PLUTARCH'S MORALS.
OF CURIOSITY, OR AN OVER BUSY INQUISITIVENESS INTO THINGS IMPERTINENT.
(Continued from our last paper.)
NOW to dissuade inquisitive persons, (as much as possible) from this sneaking and most despicable humour, it would contribute much, if they would but recollect and review all their past observations; for as Simonides using at certain times to open two chests, he kept by him, found that wherein he put rewards, ever full; and the other appointed for thanks, always empty; so it inquisitive people did but now and then look into their bag of news, they would certainly be ashamed of that vain and foolish curiosity, which with so much hazard and trouble to themselves, had been gathering together such a confused heap of worthless and loathsome Trash. If a man in reading over the writings of the ancients, should rake together all the dross he could meet with, and collect into one volume all the unfinished scraps of verse in Homer , the incongruous expressions in the Tragedians , or those obscenities of smutty Archilochus for which he was scorned and pointed at, would not such a filthy scavenger of books well deserve that curse of the Tragedian ?
Fox on your taste! Must you, like lice and fleas, Be always fed with scabs and nastiness?
But without this imprecation, the practice itself becomes its own punishment, in the dishonest and unprofitable drudgery of amassing together such a noisome heap of other mens vices and follies; a treasure much resembling the city Poneropolis , so called by King Philip , after he had peopled it with a crew of rogues and vagabonds. For curious people do so load their dirty brains with the ribauldry and solecisms of other mens writings, as well as the defects and blemishes of their lives, that there is not the least room left in their heads for one witty, graceful or ingenious thought.
There are a sort of people at Rome , who being unaffected with any thing that is beautiful and pretty, either in the works of art or nature; despise the most curious pieces in painting or sculpture, and the fairest boys and girls that are there exposed to sale, as not worth their money; therefore they much frequent the monster-market, looking after people of distorted limbs and preternatural shapes, and for beasts of the breed of Afric .
Where kinds of unlike form oft blended be Into one hideous deformity.
All which are sights so loathsome, as they themselves would abhor, were they compelled often to behold them. And if they, who curiously enquire into those vicious deformities, and unlucky accidents that may be observed in the lives of other men, would only bind themselves to a frequent recollection of what they had seen and heard; there would be found very little delight or advantage in such ungrateful and melancholy reflections.
Now since it is from the use and custom of intermeddling in the affairs of other men, that this perverse practice
grows up into such a vicious habit, therefore the best expedient for the remedy thereof is, the beginning (as it were) at a distance, and with such things as do less excite the itch of our curiosity; we gradually bring ourselves to an utter desuetude of enquiring into, or being concerned at any of those things that do not pertain unto us. Therefore let men first make trial of themselves, in smaller and less considerable matters; as for the purpose, why should it be thought such a severe piece of self-denial, for any man as he passes by, to forbear reading the inscriptions that are upon a monument or grave stone, or the letters that are drawn on walls and sign-posts? If it were but considered that there is nothing more, either for delight or benefit, to be learned thereby, but that certain people had a desire to preserve the memory of their friends and relations, by engraving their names on brass or marble; or that some impudent quack, or rooking tradesman wants money, and knows no other way to draw men to their shop or lodging, but by decoying billets, and the invitation of a show-board. The taking notice of which, and such like things, although it may seem for the present harmless; yet there is really a secret mischief wrought by it; while men suffering their minds to rove so inconsiderately at every thing they see, are insured to a foolish curiosity in burying themselves about things impertinent. For as skilful huntsmen do not permit their beagles to sting or change ; but lead them forth in couples , that their noses may be kept sharp for their proper game.
Be it the stag lodg'd in the woody shade, Or fox in borrow'd den by badger made. So ought persons of an inquisitive temper to restrain the wanton excursions of their curiosity, and confine it to observations of prudence and sobriety. Thus the lion and eagle, which walk with their claws sheathed, to keep them always pointed for their prey; are an example of that discretion, which curious persons should imitate, by carefully preserving those noble faculties of wit and understanding, which were made for useful and excellent enquiries, from being dulled, and debauched with low and foolish speculations.
The second remedy of this curiosity is, that we accustom ourselves in passing by, not to peep in at other mens doors or windows; for in this case, the hand and eye are much alike guilty; and Xenocrates said, one may as well go, as look into another man's house ; because the eye may reach what the hand cannot; and wander where the foot does not come. And besides that, it is neither genteel nor civil thus to gaze about; a well-bred person will commonly discover very little that is either meet or delightful to look on; but foul dishes perhaps lying about the floor, or wenches in lazy or immodest postures, and nothing that is decent or in good order, but as one said upon this occasion,
For ought here's worth your seeing, Friend you may
Ev'n turn your prying looks another way. And yet laying aside this consideration of uncomely sights, this very staring and glancing of the eyes to an fro, implies such a levity of mind, and so great a defect in good manners, as must needs render the practice in itself very clownish and contemptible. When Diogenes observed Dionippus a victor in the Olympick exercises, to wreath his neck as he sat in his chariot, that he might take a better view of a fair damsel that came to see the sport, look (lays he) what a worthy gamesler goes there, that even a woman can turn him which way she list . But the busy-brain people do so twist and turn themselves to every frivolous show, as if they had acquired a verticity in their heads, by their custom of gazing at all things round about them. Now (methinks) it is by no means seemly, that the sense (which ought to behave itself as a hand-maid to the soul, in doing its errands faithfully, returning speedily, and keeping at home with submissive and reserved modesty) should be suffered like a wanton and ungovernable servant, to be gadding abroad from her mistress, and straying about at her pleasure. But this happens according to that of Sophocles .
As when untam'd and hard-mouth'd colts disdain
Both lash and spur, nor will abide the rein.
For so the senses, not exercised and well managed, will at every turn break loose into wild excursions, and hurry reason along with them into the same extravagance.
(To be concluded in our next.)
TRUE BLUES.
At the Golden Bee-Hive,
DARK blue Nankeens, of the first Quality, long Pieces; usual coloured ditto, short Pieces;
A Variety of Piece and Hard Ware GOODS in general, among which are Women's extra long black, white and coloured Silk Mitts and Gloves; Cotton ditto, Dimities of various Stripes, and very low; a good Assortment of 4-4 and 7-8 Linens, ditto 9-8 Sheeting, ditto Russia bleached, Linen and Cambric Pocket Handkerchiefs, a pretty Assortment of Thread Edgings, Men's black and other coloured Silk Hosiery, common 4-4 Carpeting, Venetian and Wilton Stair ditto—Also
SALT, very fine and white, per Bushel, and in Casks of 8 Bushels.
Genuine Spanish Float Indigo, per Hundred or Pound; choice Mulcadel Box Raisins, Currants, Figs and Almonds.
Black Morocco Skins, per Dozen or single, of various Sizes.
Wedgwood's approved Ink-Pots, assorted Sizes; India Rubber, black Lead Pencils, Memorandum Books, a Variety of Japan'd and Brass Lamps, best Roman Fiddle Strings.
And at the CROCKERY SHOP of J. F. JENKINS, A general Assortment of Crockery and Glass Ware, with which are a Variety of Flower Pots.
Likewise, DEARBORN'S Truly just Patent Balances, A late and important Improvement, Being a Consignment, Of all Sizes, for weighing from Ounces to Tons (Use authorized by Law.) Comparative view of their cost with that of Scales and Weights.
   Scales, &c. Patent Balance.     Beam to weigh 30 cwt. Beam of 30 cwt. at 2 dolls. 60,00   60 wts. of 56lb. each at 15s. each, 150 3 brass case wts. of 32 lb. each, at 5 1-2 dolls. 16,50   1 pair of Scales with chains 15 1 do. of 16 lb. 3,00   Triangle 10 3 1/2 per cent. wts. for 32 lbs. 4,00   1 for 16 lbs. 1,00   1 brass balance wt. 1,25   1 scale and skid 12,00   1 set of right angles 7,00   1 guard 1,00   225 105,75   Saving in favour of Patent Balance 119,25   225,00  
N. B. Should Scales and Weights become such lumber in consequence of the introduction of BALANCES to general use, that they may be purchased for half their present value, still the concerned, fearless of them as rivals, contemplate a rapid demand for the Patent Balances, from the ease, accuracy and dispatch of their operations, as well as great saving in labour, transportation and scaling; and from the great expence and difficulty in the W. Indies of weighing bulky articles, merchants may find them a valuable article for exportation (profit being their object.)
The Brass Weights will be made to agree with the standard of any country for which they are designed, and Hay Weighers may for that use be supplied with the Beam, Weights, and additional conveniences. Providence, August 26, 1801.
GROCERIES,
Just received, and now ready for sale by Samuel Brown, A little north of the State-house. Providence. Among them are the following, which are genuine:
WEST-Ind. and New-England Rum Cherry Rum Brandy and Holland Geneva Loaf and brown Sugars Hyson and Bohea Tea Coffee and Chocolate Pepper, Allspice, fresh Raisins, Cinnamon, Cassia Buds, Peas, &c.
ALSO, Drugs, Medicines, Painters' Colours and Dye Stuffs; all of which are to be sold on the most moderate terms.
He will let the Store Chamber of the store he occupies.
Ornamental Painting and Gilding of various kinds, executed with accuracy and attention; and all favours thankfully received.
August 26. 6w.
PORTER and BRANDY.
John Ward,
Near the Market, Providence, HAS just imported a parcel of Hibbert's best London Porter, and Brown Stout, which he will sell by the quantity, single cask or dozen.
He has also just received,
A few pipes 4th proof Spanish and Cogniac Brandy, and has at wholesale and retail, Madeira, Sherry, Port, Lisbon, Malaga and Teneriffe Wines, a few Hhds. St. Croix Rum, Loaf Sugar, and Brown Sugar in Hhds. and Bbls.—Also Hyson, Souchong, Young Hyson, and Bohea Teas. August 26.
Bowers and Bucklin,
Importers of English GOODS, No. 4, WATER-STREET,
Have just received, and now opened for sale,
ONE box low priced 4-4 Irish Linens One bale Yorkshire Broadcloth and Cassimere
One case gentlemen's fashionable Hats One trunk Damask Table-Cloths, assorted, from 5-4 to 10-16;
Also for sale, at the above store, India Lute-strings —
Nankeens China, in Tea and Coffee Sets And Souchong Tea. August 26.
For SALE, by William N. Rhodes,
30 Chests Hyson 20 do. Souchong 40 do. Bohea New-England and West-India Rum by the hoghead or barrel; Loaf and brown Sugars; Coffee in hogheads or by the hundred. Cash and the highest price given for Flax-Seed and Oats.
Twenty-Five Dollars Reward.
ON Friday the 7th inst. the subscriber lost a Black Horse, with one of his hind feet white, and about thirteen and a half hands high, a well carraiged horse, 5 years old, a natural trotter, rather thin of flesh, with a single weltsed Saddle, double reined bridle, and a Ciringle, to a certain man who called his name WILLIAM READ, to go to Bristol, to be gone not to exceed twenty-four hours. Said Read is about thirty years of age, and about six feet high, short dark hair and black eyes, well proportioned, and tolerable likely. He had with him one other horse, which he called his own, about fifteen hands high, a little lame in his off hind leg, of a light bay colour, a pair of black Saddle-Bags with a small brass lock on one end, and a blue Surcoat. He also had in his possession two Watches, one of which he shewed to the Inn-holder, where he tarried while in town, on the outside case of which was inscribed, "Dr. William Little, 1797." He had on when he went away, a blue coat, buff-leather pantaloons, and half boots. Whoever will return said Read and the property to the subscriber, so that he may be brought to justice, shall be entitled to the above reward. STEPHEN SMITH. Providence, August 12.
Joseph Mason
Informs his Friends, THAT he has removed to Capt. SAMUEL GODFREY's House, at the South End, where he will be at all times ready to attend the calls of those who may please to employ him in the line of his profession. He will keep constantly on hand a good assortment of Medicines, and will put up Medicines Chests for ships, and private boxes for officers and seamen, with particular directions, on reasonable terms, and on the shortest notice. July 29.
LOOKING-GLASSES.
THE subscriber has just received an assortment of Elegant Gilt-Frame LOOKING-GLASSES, with glass pannels, and ornamented tops, of the latest fashions, as low as can be bought in New-York or Boston.—Prices from 20 to 60 dollars the pair. SAMUEL AMES. July 29. (12 w)
A good Farm for Sale,
AND to be sold on liberal terms. Said farm contains upwards of Two Hundred and Forty Acres of Land, in the town of Brimfield, State of Massachusetts, county of Hampshire, on the road to Brookfield, from Providence, with a large Dwelling-house, two Barns and Sheds; said Farm has a good proportion of mowing, ploughland, and pasturing, with an orchard, and is well furnished with excellent wood and water. It is desired that those who wish to purchase, would come and view said farm, and the owner declares on his honour that he will sell on reasonable terms. For further information enquire of the subscriber, living on said farm. ALEXANDER SESSIONS. Brimfield (Massachusetts) July 11.