Portland gazette, and Maine advertiser (Portland, Me.), 1809-09-11 00:00:00

M Yage PORTLAND GAZETTE, And Maine Advertiser.
PORTLAND, PUBLISHED BY ARTHUR SHIRLEY... FISH-STREET.
N. 22, of Vol. XII.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 1809.
[Whole N. 594.]
Select Paragraphs.
HUMAN LIFE.
Life's little stage, (says Young) is a small eminence—but inch-high above the grave, that final home of man, where dwells the untold multitude. We look around—we read their monuments—we sigh—and, as we sigh, we sink, and are what we deplored!—lamenting, or lamented, all our lot."
These sacred truths, though summarily expressed, are replete with interesting admonitions.
"We are apt to think this life of ours immortal, and to bellow no attention to the narrow limits defined, sooner or later, to confine it; thus thinking, we live and act, on many occasions, repugnant to that virtue and justice, which we should admire, venerate and practice, did we call to mind the uncertainty of our prospects and duration here, and the certainty of an hereafter, in which we are to be rewarded, or punished, according to the good or bad deeds done in this life."
A grave yard is both instructive to the mind, and wholesome to the soul. While it ridicules the idea of any other superiority in human nature, than that of worth and virtue, it demonstrates that death hurls his darts alike at all; and that, in the grave, all share one common fate, to moulder and decay; and as we pass on, from stone to stone, from tomb to tomb, and either reflect upon the inscriptions or upon the actions which distinguish the persons they mark; a voice seems continually ascending to our ears, saying, "Live righteously, that you may die good, and live to immortality of happiness and glory!"
Cure of Consumption.
Dr. DINMORE, of Washington City, is a correspondent of the London Monthly Magazine . In a late contribution to that popular miscellany, he states an extraordinary instance, in his own person, of recovery from what appeared to be the very last stage of a swift decline originally produced by a very severe cold. Himself and his brother physicians having given up every hope of cure, he threw away his medicines, and resolved to gratify his appetite for Philadelphia porter , which had been to him a prohibited article. Finding that it revived him, he increased the quantity to a bottle a day, the consequence of which was the rapid and finally total disappearance of every pulmonary symptom.— Freeman's Journal.
Remedy for the Hooping Cough.
Give the quantity of a teaspoon full of Sweet oil, directly after a fit of coughing. Let it be repeated, there being no danger of giving too large a quantity of oil, for every dose operates as a procrastination of the fit. Many have felt the good effects of this simple remedy.
Interesting to Mariners. Wm. THOMPSON, of Brooklyn (N. Y.) publishes, that he has tried the following experiment, and doubts not it would be the means of preserving the lives of such of our sea-faring people as should be so unfortunate as to abandon their vessels and cast their lives to the boat. A fourteen-foot boat, with an empty puncheon lashed to the rigging of the boat on the inside, will float with four men in it when full of water, and in that case may be bailed out. He is of opinion that one puncheon to a ton, or four puncheons to a twenty feet long boat, will float with sixteen feet in like manner. In the above case a boat may live in the sea, without danger of turning bottom up.
The papers mention that on the 9th ult. there was a fall of snow for several minutes in the town of Warren , in New-York State . The summer has been uncommonly cold; and the crops of Indian Corn to the northward will be very scanty.
The Fisheries!—Schooner Farmer , from Labrador, with 97,000 fish; sch. Jane , from do. with 117,000; sch. Parrot , from do. with 84,000; and two or three others, with like full fares, arrived at Newburyport last week. Fish has been very plenty this season. The aggregate amount expected to be received in Newburyport by vessels belonging there, is stated at 1,007,000 fish!—A number of Cape-Cod vessels were at Labrador 3d ult. Our fisheries are an important branch of business, (especially when "Commerce is left unembarrassed with too much regulation,) is a healthy employment, and an honorable and honest method of "drawing riches from the ocean."
Cicero was (in the patrician dialect) man- born—the mother of Metellus was diffident. The latter saying to the former, "Can you tell your father's name?" Cicero answered, "Can your mother tell yours?"
The Chinese physicians never prescribe bleeding, but say the heat of the blood by
abstinence, diet, and cooling herbs; saying, that if the pot boils too fast, it is better to reduce the fuel than laid out the water.
The Gazette.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 1809.
BIBLE SOCIETY.
A number of gentlemen of this and other towns met at the Court House on Wednesday, 30th ult. and formed themselves into a "BIBLE SOCIETY for the DISTRICT OF MAINE," and then adjourned to meet at the same place, on Tuesday the 12th inst. at four o'clock P. M. to choose officers and establish regulations.
Capt. Joseph Ingraham, Samuel Freeman, Esq., Rev. Asa Lyman, and Mr. Robert Boyd, of Portland, Ammi R. Mitchell Esq. of North Yarmouth, Rev. Caleb Bradley of Falmouth, and the Rev. Timothy Hillard, of Gorham, were appointed a Committee to obtain subscribers; to any of whom persons desirous of becoming members, or of promoting the institution, may apply. [Freeman's Friend.]
ERRATA.
Mr. SHIRLEY—I notice the following typographical errors in the extract of the Oration delivered at Paris, and published in the Gazette of the 21st ult.
In the 13th line from the bottom of the first column instead of "effused" read infused . Five lines below, for "furies" read queens . Ten lines from the top of the next column instead of "In bailing" read Inhaling .
GORHAM, AUG. 23, 1809.
Mr. SHIRLEY,
As the hooping-cough is prevailing in this, and the adjoining towns, with unusual violence, I shall take the liberty to transcribe for insertion, in your useful paper, the following letter from a celebrated physician in Maryland, to one of the editors of the New-York Medical Repository. By publishing it, you may, perhaps, be instrumental in checking that formidable disease. MEDICIS.
MARYLAND, Nov. 15, 1808.
Sir,—You may recollect that about 3 or 4 years ago I mentioned to you, that it was my opinion that vaccination would cure the hooping cough; that I had made one experiment, and that it had succeeded fully to my expectations. I mentioned the case to several physicians, and requested their making a trial of its effects, when they should have any patients with hooping-cough. The beneficial effects of vaccination above mentioned, determined me in every instance that occurred of the hooping-cough to vaccinate. I therefore have vaccinated six or eight patients that had the hooping-cough, and in every case it has succeeded in curing that most distressing disease.
The hooping-cough does not come to height in less than six weeks from its commencement, and then, when a favourable termination is expected, the declension of the disease is gradual, and it does not terminate in less than six weeks more. To arrest this afflicting disorder in its progress I would recommend vaccination in the second or third week of the hooping-cough, i.e. when the symptoms of the hooping-cough are fully ascertained, then to vaccinate. Should the convulsive cough be violent I should immediately vaccinate; being well assured that the distressing symptoms of the hooping-cough are checked by vaccine disease. The termination of the vaccine disease will be the termination of the hooping-cough; that is, as soon as the vaccinated part loses the efflorescence, and the scab begins to dry and becomes of a bluish or brownish colour there will then be an evident change in hooping-cough for the better, and the fever symptoms will cease.
Thus of two formidable diseases, to which the human race are liable, the small-pox and hooping-cough, the first is prevented and the latter is cured."
Med. Reps. Vol. 12. p. 182—3.
MILITARY.
The Falmouth West Company at Sacarapa, commanded by Nathaniel Partridge, met on Monday the fourth inst. for the purpose of improving themselves in military evolutions, when Miss Abigail Freeman, for the behalf of the ladies in that vicinity, presented the Company with a Standard, and before a numerous multitude of Spectators who had assembled on the occasion, delivered the following Address:
Accept this Standard, as a pledge of our esteem for you, and affection for our country.
The prevented by custom, and the peculiarity of our situation from taking an active part in the concerns of our country, and especially from encountering the hardships and dangers of the field, we feel an equal interest in those concerns; as warm an attachment to our native soil. Happily the storm, which has desolated Europe, and still continues to sweep empires to the dust, has not yet spread its devastation over our favored land—Peace still continues within our walls and prosperity within our palaces.—The surrounded with blessings let us not be lulled into security, from which we may be awakened, unprepared
to protect our liberties and rights—we cannot expect long to enjoy what we are not always ready to defend. Nations as well as individuals are liable to the changes of fortune—their decline may be as rapid as their elevation. However painful the reflection, it may again be the fate of our country to witness the invasion of her shores and to marshal her heroes to fight for her independence. Should this unhappy time arrive (which may providence avert) we feel a pride in believing, that you will be among the first to assert her cause, and to display in her defence that patriotism and valor, which become the character of soldiers.—Never may this Standard be surrendered by treachery or cowardice.—Never may it be torn from you by the grasp of an enemy.—Never may it be unfurled except in the ranks of freemen.—Long may it flutter in the breath of peace; and should it ever be spread in the tempest of war, may the spirit of heroism preserve it in every conflict, and the voice of victory and fame declare its triumph.
To which Ensign JOSEPH VALENTINE, made the following reply:
In behalf of the Officers and Soldiers of this Company, I present you our most sincere thanks for this token of your friendship and esteem.
It is not expected, our female friends, that you will ever presume to take up arms in the defence of our country, as your situation will not admit of your encountering the hardships and dangers of the field; but you have made it manifest to us by this standard you have presented, that you are willing to encourage a well ordered militia, which is the bulwark of our country.
Should our country be invaded by a foreign enemy, we pledge ourselves in the most solemn manner to protect you and this from all hostile invaders—and should we ever be called to face our enemy on the field of battle, it never shall be surrendered by us but with our lives. And may our fathers who fought and bled for the liberty and freedom which we now enjoy, ever be had in grateful remembrance.
FOR THE GAZETTE.
THE MONITOR.—No. II.
"Who will show us any good?"
The immediate worship and service of God is capable of affording us the most sublime and exalted of all pleasures. The beauties of the natural world must attract the notice of any man of common feelings; but viewing the many mercies of Him from whom cometh down every good and perfect gift, the devotional mind glows with an holy ecstasy, and rises far superior to all the boasted pleasures of sense, or the far famed enjoyments of the world. Content with this, the truly wise will seek no greater good. Their minds are calm and serene as the summers evening, and their lives are regular, temperate and peaceable. But 'tis the peace of God which passeth all understanding, that rules in their hearts, and 'tis the love of Christ which constraineth them. Ask, who shews them this good? they will point you to a reconciled God. Inquire what they do more than others to deserve it? they will tell you of the merits of a Saviour. Not so the silly votaries of pleasure. Being strangers to intellectual or moral delights, they live but in the noise and confusion of the throng. "Who will show us any good?" what shall amuse us? they cry as they turn from one scene of folly to another. Absorbed in the vanities of the world, immersed in the continual bustle of company and amusements, they languish for new pleasures, and sigh most bitterly for some refinement in dissipation. But alas! this is not always to be found, and the miserable child of vanity disappointed and peevish from the loss of what was never intended to satisfy the desires of an immortal mind, pines away still inquiring "who will show me any good?" or, having broken the restraints of virtue, slighted the monitions of conscience, disregarded the precepts of reason, and set at naught even the dictates of common sense, he outstrips every competitor, and stands foremost in every species of wickedness and presumption. These are the natural consequences of an unbounded thirst for amusement at the expence of right reason. But the end of such is plainly marked. The unerring word of inspiration hath declared their doom. This is its language: "Because I have called and ye have refused, I have stretched out my hand and no man regarded me, therefore I will laugh at your calamity, and mock when your fear cometh."—Child of the world, the picture is finished—look at it.
Sterling virtue may be known by its steady improvement, even in old age.
FOR THE GAZETTE.
DE SENECTUTE.—No. I.
SUCH are the propensities of nature for applause, that when the maladies of old age, or delirium, attack the human frame, actions, unjustifiable in a common clown, are produced thereby, and all those engaging qualities, which once attracted the attention of every beholder, are blended in forgetfulness, with scarcely a single recollection that they once were.
Such is the fate of the late President Adams, as witnessed in the correspondence between him and the editors of the Boston Patriot, now circulating through the democratic papers.
Adams, in the meridian of life, was employed in the service of his country, and received those appointments, of which, in this unfortunate era of his existence, he has the vanity to boast. His unexampled fidelity was such as secured to him the confidence of his fellow citizens; and so great was his penetration that he attracted the notice of foreign politicians. A few years since, we saw him at the helm of state, directing the national ship; at a period too, when the greatest and best of men were liable, in opinion, to differ, and did differ. Adams being at variance with Hamilton, Ames, and Pickering, three noted sages whose godlike virtues shall adorn the unsullied page of history, when present animosities shall be consigned to oblivion. But it ought to be remarked, that these differences in opinion, related principally to appointments, which produced no considerable evil, except, as is more than conjecturable, it occasioned the removal of the latter from office. But, unhappy Adams!—when his mental qualities began to decline, former dissensions rekindled in his mind, and increased to heated animosities; which, burning in his breast, and fanned by the irritating speeches of a son, who possessed all the qualities of a demagogue, without the firmness or fidelity of a statesman, doubtless drew from him the multiplicity of letters with which administration papers teem.
These conjectures will appear not wholly without foundation, if we take the pains to scrutinize the letters here alluded to, where we shall find the arguments and statements of one place, completely to refute those of another. Instance the following.
In his letter of Dec. 26, 1808, he says, "The embargo and non-importation laws, ought not to last long. They will lay such a foundation to the national government, as will give great uneasiness to Mr. Jefferson's successor, and will produce such distraction and confusion as I shudder to think of." There he condemns a long continuance of the Embargo, which, on the 9th January following, he would leave wholly "at the responsibility of Congress," without a single intimation that rulers are liable to do wrong, and that the people had a right to instruct them, as he acknowledged in his first mentioned letter.
In his letter of May 17, 1809, he attempts to vindicate his appointment of Mr. Murray without consulting the heads of departments, by saying "He knew they would not assent to it." Here he took a responsibility upon himself, which he knew ran counter to the opinion of the cabinet, and did it for that very reason. As well might the governor of one of the New-England states issue a proclamation for a fast to be held on an annual election, or a thanksgiving on the sabbath. What but the importunities of a J. Q. A. could cause such reasoning as this?
In another letter he says, he did not recommend the alien and sedition laws "Those who have the newspapers of 1798 and 1799, will be pleased to give them a perusal, wherein they will find, not only a recommendation of these
laws, but the observations of editor thereon, with the debates in Congress; also the execrable epithets of tory, traitor, monarchist, heavy-headed incendiary, &c. with which the democratic papers teemed, and heaped upon this old man, for his recommending measures by them deemed so inexcusable.
In another letter he says, "If a treaty had been made in France," (in a certain manner therein named) "he would have sent it back without laying it before the Senate, as Mr. Jefferson did the celebrated one of Messrs. Monroe and Pinckney." Thus would he have deprived the Senate of a constitutional voice in a national matter, rather than cross a private inclination. Such language as this, cannot consistently be the effusion of that pen, which once so admirably depicted the principles of government, in his celebrated Defence of Constitutions . Some other cause, than what is open to common observation, must have produced language so puerile, arguments so insignificant, and statements so contradictory, as this correspondence contains. Happy would it be for the name of the author, could these productions be consigned to oblivion, that his other writings might continue to grace the libraries of the literati, with no unmeaning tract, like those now under consideration, to detract from the merits of so renowned a writer as John Adams . But doubtless some pretended friend will collect these letters into a pamphlet, and for electioneering purposes, puffed off and recommended for their intrinsic excellence. This will probably draw an answer from some abler pen.
Charity forbids us to suppose, that Adams retains his formerly shining talents. But let us make proper allowances for the infirmities of old age, the influence of a son, and the recollection of his disappointed expectation, and candour will gain a seat in our hearts. We shall not, like our opponents, requite former services with ignominious epithets.
Enough has already been written to show, that some imbecility lies at bottom; yet some further notice will probably be taken of his writings—not to engage the public mind against him, but to mollify animosities to candour.
LAEILIUS.
* The publication of these essays, "in a less perishable form than that of a newspaper," is actually commenced in Boston, to appear in periodical numbers. Editor.
PETER PORCUPINE.
CORRETT, alias Peter Porcupine , instead of being the subject of abuse of the democratic inkwellers, ought to be the theme of their eulogy, for he is one of the most noisy champions of democracy in England .—He is, if any thing, a more vociferous, thoroughgoing demagogue than Sir Francis Burdett . While in the United States he never was acknowledged to be a federalist, by the great body of that party; and his politics and prejudices were not any where more pointedly reprobated than they were in many of the federal papers. Recurrence to files will prove this; and further that for their firm and steady adherence to American principles, in opposition to Porcupine's politics and prejudices, some of those editors were impudently denominated by him, " Dishonored ." His background was patronized merely as an offset to the blackguard trash of the Aurora , and other democratic papers. His poison was circulated to counteract other poison, and it then had its effect.— Cent.
While Imperial Bonaparte lives, the world will never be at Peace . While an inch of territory remains in the old world which will not bow the neck to Cesar , he will not cease his efforts to bring it under his sway. Ibid.
"MORE STRAWS."
Mr. Coleman , of New-York , after quoting from several democratic papers, such extracts as appeared evidently to be driving at one object, " WAR with Great Britain, and ALLIANCE with France ," makes the following pertinent remarks:
"From a pretty attentive observation of the language lately held by all the leading democratic newspapers throughout the U. States, I have my fears that all is not right at the fountain head. So many puppets could hardly all move to the same tune and time without some master hand to set them in motion. Who a d where is the Master hand?"

Foreign Intelligence.
Received at Norfolk, by the Africane, from Portsmouth, (England)
BANKS OF THE WESE, JULY 1.
(EXTRACT OF A LETTER) In the neighbourhood of Preiburg, the Austrians have established a bridge over the Danube, defended by a redoute , near Wolsthal, which Marshal Davoust attacked in vain, with 10,000 men. The Austrian Gen. Bianchi repulsed his attacks.
"In Poland, the scene of war, has declared in favour of the Polish troops under Prince Poniatowsky, who is reported to have been joined by a column of Russians, under a Gen. Suwaroff; but the reigning Duke of Oldenburg, who was in the neighbourhood two days ago, is said to have dropt very broad hints that Russia would not act seriously against the Austrians. The news of the success of the Archduke Charles on the Danube, had reached St. Petersburg before his departure, and created such a tumultuous joy among the lower orders in the Russian capital, that the French Ambassador complained to Alexander, who replied, that it was the voice of the people, which he was unable to controul."
THE EXPEDITION.
RAMSGATE, JULY 11. —We are all bustle here this day, 20 sail of transports having come in, which in consequence of adverse winds, occasions great confusion amongst them, but being moderate was attended with little or no damage to the vessels. The troops are to embark tomorrow, as far as the present arrivals will admit, when these will be despatched for the Downs, and others sent in so that to appearance one of the most formidable expeditions ever witnessed from this country, is now likely to be very soon ready for its destination.
The march of the troops for their various destinations on the Kent coast was completed yesterday.
Besides the artillery stated, 1200 horses of the Commissariat corps of gunner drivers, from Woolwich, Chatham and Canterbury, are ordered to accompany the expedition—a strong indication this, that the service is continental. They will be embarked in divisions at Northfleet and Ramsgate. A detachment of the wagon train is also expected to embark this day at Deptford.
LONDON, JULY 13. —The Mosquito Schooner and a small squadron from Heligoland, have driven the French out of Cuxhaven, demolished the batteries, and forced the Municipality to lay down the buoys in the Elbe which the French had taken. Our presence is ardently desired in that part of Germany, and hopes are entertained that our Expedition is destined thither.
"Heligoland, June 6."
[Extracts of Letters] "This moment a small expedition has failed of about 150 soldiers, with four gun brigs and two sloops; its destination is said to be Cuxhaven. I should have wished it at least 20,000 men, for then, both sides of the Elbe would have risen against the French, and in a very short time the whole of the North of Germany. We are in hourly expectation of the arrival of the grand expedition from England, when something great can be achieved. Should any thing occur, you may depend upon hearing from me."
"June 6—in the evening."
"We have received accounts of the landing of our troops at Cuxhaven, which place was taken, the Dutch troops having made their escape, on the appearance of our force. The inhabitants immediately joined our troops, and signified a wish to march against Hamburg. We expect every moment some fresh arrival, and of course you may expect an account of something having taken place in this neighbourhood."
Rumour of another battle on the Danube. The prisoners taken on board a Dutch prize, sent into Dover by the Tyger revenue cutter, state, that it was universally believed, at Flushing, when they failed, that another great battle had been fought upon the Danube on the 26th ult. which terminated in the defeat of the French army with the loss of 50,000 men, 10,000 of whom belonged to Bonaparte's guards.
The same persons also state, that there were lying at Flushing three men of war, full of troops, waiting for a favourable opportunity to put to sea, in consequence of which, a squadron failed immediately from Deal for that part of the Dutch coast; that it was understood 20,000 Prussians were on their march to co-operate with the Austrian army; and that the greatest possible discontent prevailed in Holland, in consequence of the severity of the conscription law. Reports are also stated to have been circulated at Flushing of the assassination of Ferdinand VII. We know not what degree of credit to attach to those statements.
Grand Austrian Bulletin.
The London papers, received at Norfolk, by the Africane, contain the official and highly important account of the great battle of the Danube, together with the disposition of the Austrian armies since the commencement of the war. We present the following sketch of it as given in a London paper:—
"We this day lay before our readers one of the most interesting and important documents that was ever offered to the public eye; the history of the campaign from the battle of Aspern, which "has dissolved the charm of Bonaparte's invincibility, and reduced him to the rank of bold and successful Generals, who, like himself, after a long series of destructive achievements, have experienced the vicissitudes of fortune."—A clearer, a more spirited, a more eloquent narrative never came from the hand of man—it is such a narrative as such an achievement deserves, and there is not a human being, at least there is not a lover of liberty who reads it, who will not feel the deepest joy, admiration, gratitude and enthusiasm for the cause of Austria—Men who can sustain such a cause in such a manner—who, after an unbroken series of disaster and defeat, of calamity and distress, can display such constancy and courage, such loyalty and patriotism, cannot (no! it were treason to suppose they could) be subdued, and we have no doubt that Austria will eventually establish her independence and security. How fade the Bulletins of Bonaparte before this manly and noble document! How contemptible and disgusting do they look when placed beside it! Here is none of the braggadocio and insolence which distinguished and degrade those labors of the Corsican—Here are no claims to victory gained with ease and almost without effort. Every line pays tribute to the mightiness and difficulty of the conflict. We have the field of battle depicted to us in the clearest manner; we trace the march of each army—we follow the movements of the different columns; we see where the battle rages with the greatest fury, where the struggle was most tremendous—we appreciate the talents of the different Generals, and we behold towering above them all, the two Commanders in Chief bringing into the conflict all the resources and energies of their mighty minds, and fighting for glory and for victory, for fame & for life—How every thing was foreseen and provided against by the Archduke Charles. With a kind of prophetic wisdom he knew where the greatest efforts of the enemy would be directed, and there the enemy always found that preparations had been made to receive them. All the tactics and manoeuvres of Bonaparte, his furious attempts to pierce the centre, and thus cut off the right wing from the left—his repeated efforts to turn the Austrian flanks, and thus come into their rear, were rendered unavailing by the admirable dispositions of the Austrian Commander. After two days, the most sanguinary days that Europe ever saw, Bonaparte was at length compelled to yield the palm of pre-eminence, to descend from his towering height, to lose his character of invincible, and to resign the rank of being the First Captain of the age."
"It would be difficult to say which part of the conduct of the Archduke Charles deserves the most praise—that firmness of mind which made him not despair of stopping the progress of the enemy after the battle of Eckmuhl—that confidence in his own talents which rendered him anxious to hazard a battle with the
French, flushed though they were with uninterrupted success and led on by Bonaparte in person—that astonishing presence of mind which rendered him equal to every emergency—or that consummate knowledge of the art of war which enabled him to beat the man who had arrogated to himself the title of invincible."
SALEM, SEPT. 8.
FROM GOTTENBURG.
Yesterday arrived here the brig Eliza and Mary, Capt. Turner, from Gottenburg. When she failed (23d July) peace had not yet been made between Russia and Sweden, but it was an event soon expected. The Russians had an army of 40,000 men (double the number of the Swedish army) in the neighborhood of Stockholm: these had politely fallen back a little distance while the coronation of the new King was going on, and the arrangement settling under his government, but were doubtless intended to enforce such terms as Russia might dictate. It was reported, that the had offered the restoration of Finland which she had recently conquered from Sweden and Pomerania, which the French had heretofore taken, on condition that Sweden should enter into the compact against Great Britain, and shut her ports to British commerce.
A letter by the above arrival mentions the expectation of peace between Sweden and Russia, and that consequently commerce would have free scope, and also that the Danes would be obliged to discontinue their piracies. Nothing was said in this letter, of the conditions of peace.
Charles XIII was crowned on the 28th of June.
By the Sails.
NEW BEDFORD, SEPT. 1.
Almost every day brings fresh intelligence of the barbarous conduct of the French towards American citizens; and we are extremely sorry to add, that these enormities, as often as they are repeated, are defended, or at least palliated by men in our own country; and what is more strange, by natives Americans . While any, the very slightest departure from the line of rectitude by the British, is immediately caught hold of, and by the help of democratic microscopes, magnified, until it is turned into a bug bear to frighten all the men, women and children out of their senses, the Emperor Napoleon is permitted to proceed in his godly work of "ameliorating our condition," by burning our ships, taking from them American citizens, and confining them in his infernal prisons , without even the faintest shew of remonstrance on our part. Nay, things are arrived to such a pitch of degradation, that if we should pretend to doubt the right of Napoleon Bonaparte to inflict upon us all these evils it is ten to one, if some good jacobin is not at hand to accuse us of being corrupted by "British guineas." But, fellow citizens, how long will you be thus deaf to the representations of French barbarity, which almost every arrival in the United States only tends to confirm and corroborate beyond a doubt?
Since our last, Mr. Charles Gilbert, mate of the brig Lucy, (which was taken by a French privateer, and afterwards retaken by the English brig Scorpion,) arrived in this town, and informs us, that he, together with the other four men taken from the Lucy, were carried to Bassetterre, which place they reached on the 19th July. The captain of the privateer conducted them to the commandant of the island, for the purpose, as Mr. Gilbert supposed, of obtaining for them a pass to leave the island; but instead of obtaining one, their names were all immediately registered, and themselves ordered to prison. On the 23d, by the kindly interference of an American gentleman they were allowed the privilege of a trial. By this trial, they were fairly acquitted, and one would suppose would have
been released, and suffered to return home. But no; as if to add insult to injury, they were strictly commanded not to leave the place. Mr. Gilbert, after several unsuccessful attempts, at last succeeded in getting on board a vessel bound to St. Bartholomews from which place he took passage in the sch. Enterprise for New-York.
While Mr. Gilbert remained at St. Bartholomews, two of the seamen taken from the Lucy, viz. Dean Lake and Barnabas Coombs, arrived there, but were unable to obtain a passage for the United States. Ira Hopkins and Abel Demus still remained at Bassetterre.
While in prison their allowance was the scanty pittance of five ounces of the very worst kind of meat, and not unfrequently little else than the bones of a hog's head. The residue of their allowance was only 7 ounces of bread.
There were in prison about 360 persons, among whom were about fifteen native Americans. Among the prisoners were women and children, who were treated, Mr. Gilbert informs us, in the most shameful and brutal manner possible. The cries of an infant were silenced by an unmerciful beating, that would have disgraced even savages.
Bonaparte in one of his bulletins, ordered, that the Austrian field marshal Chastellar, if taken, should be executed as a brigand. In consequence, the Austrian Emperor has notified Napoleon, that Derounel and Foulers, as well as other French general officers should be held as hostages for the personal safety of the field marshal, should the chance of war put him in the power of the French.
Something Curious —Strange as it may seem, it is nevertheless true, that the democratic papers abuse the federalists because no redress is obtained for British insults and aggression. We should like to know how a party out of power, can be amenable for the mal administration of the government.— Balance.
From the Battleborough Reporter.
Connecticut Mirror —We have lately been delighted in the receipt of a few numbers of papers with this title, published at Hartford, Connecticut, edited by Theodore Dwight, esq. lately a representative in the congress of the U. States and a gentleman of well deserved celebrity in the literary and political world. We shall from time to time give extracts from this paper, and thus as far as our sphere extends, endeavor to co-operate with the editor, in the diffusion of that information without which our freedom will soon become a tale of other and happier times, and our right evanescent as the mist of the morning.
If more general encouragement were given to the efforts of men of talents to disseminate correct politics, useful arts and elegant literature, our press would issue papers widely different from those which now degrade our national character, and sap the foundation of society.
It was an adage of chancellor Bacon that "knowledge is power." Later moralists with equal truth have asserted that "knowledge is virtue," and without virtue no republican government can be long supported. We may say of newspapers in America (with a trifling variation from the original) what the author of the Pursuits of Literature , has said of literature in general, that they are the great engines by which the whole fabric of civilized society must be established or overthrown.
BOSTON, SEPT. 8.
The Baltimore "North American," received by yesterday's Mail, contains the following editorial assertion:—"We know that our Administration were informed of the nature of Mr. Erskine's instructions though they were not shown in the extenso."
The right of the cruisers of a foreign nation to enforce American Laws, has been denied by many American Politicians. The Bayonne Decree to execute our Embargo Laws, and the British Proposition to enforce our Non-Intercourse as to France have both been complained of. The French Emigrants from Cuba or New-Orleans have peculiar ideas on this subject. Some of them having been accused of piracy for being concerned in or commanding privateers which took American vessels, in their answer in the public papers, have asked the following question:—
"Is it piracy for a privateer, legally commissioned, to capture vessels trading in contravention to the laws of the country under whose flag the latter sail?"
Extract from a Communication in the Baltimore North American, edited by Mr. Wagener, formerly first Clerk under the Secretary of State, when Mr. Madison held that office.
"AS the real origin of the Embargo has been carefully concealed from the public, I will, now Mr. Jefferson is in
a situation to defend himself, give a concise history of that flagitious measure. When the unhappy affair of the Chesapeake took place, the leaders of the democrats, with their usual lack of sagacity, were the first to set up the war whoop, and that too without enquiring whether the aggression had been authorized, or what was more probable, whether it was not the explosion of a mine, the combustible materials of which had been studiously prepared by their political opponents. Be that as it may, all parties joined in the cry for vengeance and Mr. Jefferson, fully persuaded that the long wished for opportunity of involving the nation in hostilities with Great-Britain had arrived, lost no time in inviting General Turreau to a conference at Washington, the result of which was a provisional arrangement having for its object, a co-operation of the naval and military forces of the two nations in the war, which Congress, in obedience to the wishes of the people, would be obliged to declare. Fortunately for the peace, happiness and independence of the United States, Congress was not in session at the time, and when they met, the disavowal of the attack on the Chesapeake, and the mission of Mr. Rose, had wrought such a change in the public mind, as to frustrate the deep laid plan in favor of universal monarchy. How then was the wrath of the Emperor and King for this disappointment, to be appeased? I answer—by adopting the Embargo as a substitute for War!
England refuses to ratify a settlement, which she says she did not authorize.—France has violated a treaty with us after she had ratified it!
An American vessel was recently stopped in a French port, because it was discovered that she had on board a number of Mexico Sheep ! Bonaparte is not quite so kind to us as Thomas Jefferson was to France, during the Embargo. That illustrious man, as the democrats style him, took great pains to have collected some of the best COTTON SEED, in the southern states, for the purpose of being shipped off to France (although contrary to law) in one of his dispatch vessels, in order that the great Emperor's dominions might feel as little as possible the effects of our Embargo. And we find by a recent account, that the French, stimulated by the embargo, and aided perhaps by some of their very loving transatlantick friends, began to raise cotton in abundance, so that ere long they will be able to do without our's altogether. Here's another effect of Jefferson policy.— Trenton Fed.
"UNDUE PARTIALITIES."
WASHINGTON, in his inestimable legacy, addressed to any particular party but to his countrymen, solemnly warned us against undue partialities in favour of foreign nations, as they would lead us to inconsistent conduct towards them, and probably prevent our feeling or resenting real injuries, when offered by the favourite.
That one class of politicians, in the United States have long entertained an undue partiality to France, we presume every federalist believes. But have we candidly examined ourselves?—Does not that same bias, in a less degree, pervade the whole mass of the people? Do we feel injuries with equal sensibility, without regard to the quarter whence they proceeded? If not, are we true to the advice of Washington—are we faithful to the interests, the honour and the independence of our country? We do not wish to criminate our own party, but we must confess, we cannot observe the course of public opinion, even among the most unprejudiced, without astonishment. Think a moment of these facts.
An arrival at Salem from Gottenburg announces a number of American vessels with cargoes, carried into Norway; a larger number into Copenhagen, all without pretence of cause! 60 vessels says reports taken, in one month! All this in compliance with the policy which France has dictated to her allies. But France professes to be the champion of neutral rights. Not a buzz is heard on 'Change—scarcely a symptom of indignation is any where to be heard. The sufferers may tell their story, but no check reddens—no curses escape. It proceeds from Bonaparte—privileged to insult, oppress and plunder every nation, and all the people shall say Amen! And there is an end of it.
After witnessing such a torpor on such an occasion, and the blaze of indignation that spreads, the instant a wrong is suspected from England, who can say we are "true Americans?" Can we reconcile this discriminating sensibility to that generous and unswerving love of country, which is alive to wrong, in proportion to its degree, without regard to its author? Let us examine ourselves, and when we ac-

POETRY.
THE FAIR THIEF. By the Late Earl of Egmont.
I TELL with equal truth and grief, That little Kate's an arrant thief; Before the archin well could go, She stole the whitewash of the row; And more, that whitewash to adorn, She stole the blouses of the morn; Sole off the fortune to her pours, On primrose buds in vernal showers.
There's no repeating all her wiles; She stole the Graces' winning smiles; 'Twas quickly seen she rob'd the sky, To plant a star in either eye; She pilfer'd orient pearl for teeth, And stole the cowpils' sweetest breath; The cherry sleep'd in morning dew, Gave moisture to her lips, and hue.
These were her infant spoils; a store To which in time she added more: At twelve, she stole from Cyprus' queen, Her air, and love commanding mien; Stole Juno's dignity, and stole From Pallas' loom, to charm the foul. She sung—Amaz'd the Syrens heard, And to assert their voice appear'd
She play'd—the Muses from their hill, Wonder'd who was thus their skill. Apollo's wits next had they, and And then the beams that light the day; While Jove her pilf ring tricks to crown, Pronounc'd these beauties all her own; Pardon her crimes, and prais'd her art— And other day, she stole my heart.
Cupid! If lovers are thy care, Revenge thy vot'ry on the fair! Do justice on her stolen charms; And let her prison be my arms.
Pay for your Papers.
THE subscriber once more requests all those indebted to him for the PORTLAND GAZETTE, to make payment up to the 1st of Sept. 1808, at which time he relinquished the publication of the paper. All accounts which remain unsettled on the 1st of November next, will be left with an attorney for collection. The bills for the papers which are taken at the Post Offices in Warren and Waldoboro, are left with the Post-Masters. Those which go to Farmington, with Z. SOULE, Esq. Those to Fryeburg, with J. W. RIPLEY, Esq. Those to Waterville, with the Post-Master at that place. Those to Brunswick, with HENRY PUTNAM, Esq. and Mr. JAMES CUSHMAN. Other places will be named as the Bills are forwarded. ISAAC ADAMS. August 28.
TAKE NOTICE.
ALL persons indebted to the late firm of STRONG & DANA, are informed that their notes and accounts are left with Mr. MOSES QUIMBY, at Stephen Longfellow, Jun. Esq.'s Office, where they are requested to call and settle without further notice. ROBERT STRONG. Note.—The notes and accounts of STRONG & QUIMBY, are left as above. Strong & Quimby. Portland, August 28. (4w)
Uncurrent Bank Bills.
COOS, Vermont, Berkshire and Cheshire Bank Bills, received in payment for a quantity of good CODFISH, if application is made immediately to J. P. THURSTON. August 28.
Shipping Tobacco.
TWENTY Hds. of Shipping TOBACCO, of a good quality, for sale at a reduced price for cash or approved notes.—By Robert H. Smith, Fifth-Street, Who has likewise for sale, as usual, Pigtail and Fig Tobacco, Rappie and Scotch Snuff,—and Cigars, warranted of the first quality—and on as reasonable terms as can be purchased in the District of Maine, or Boston, by wholesale or retail. August 28.
Medical Lectures, at Portland.
IN compliance with the solicitations of a number of Gentlemen, Doct. RAMSAY proposes to deliver a course of LECTURES on Anatomy, Physiology, Medicine and Surgery, at PORTLAND, commencing on the 18th day of Sept. next. The course will occupy thirty days. July 24, 1809.
Natural Theology.
DR. RAMSAY, (previously to his course of Anatomy to commence on the 18th of Sept.) will deliver six Discourses on Natural Theology in the style of Paley. These Lectures will convey the notions of Animal Economy, life, growth, health, disease, &c. Mind, education, ideas, morals and religion, &c.—Illustrated by Anatomy, Natural Physiology and Chemistry, as delivered in Philadelphia, New-York and Hanover, to the ladies, gentlemen and young people. Gentlemen possessing Tickets for the course of Anatomy, Physiology, &c (which will commence on the 18th of Sept) will be furnished with gratis tickets to the Theological Lectures. The foregoing six lectures (commencing on Monday the 11th) will be delivered at the upper chamber over the Maine Fire and Marine Insurance Office, each succeeding afternoon, at 5 o'clock. Tickets to each single lecture, half a dollar. Tickets to the whole course, 2 dollars. Portland, August 29, 1809.
NOTICE.
THE Citizens of Oxford County are notified, that application for Licenses for laying out Highways, and generally the business devolved on the Court of Common Pleas, by a late Law abolishing the Court of Sessions, will be attended to by the Court of Common Pleas for the County of Oxford, on the first & second days of the Term; and that no cause requiring the intervention of a Jury, will be tried until the third day.—Per order, CYRUS HAMLIN, Clerk. Aug. 28, 1809.
NEW GOODS.
ROYAL LINCOLN, Head of Fifth-Street.
HAS just received a great variety of NEW GOODS, (among which are many Articles that are very scarce in town) which with his former assortment will be sold very low for Cash only. July 31.
FOR SALE.
THAT valuable Estate situated in North-yarmouth, twelve miles from Portland, and about one hundred rods from the head of the tide in North-yarmouth, lying on the Post Road from Portland to Wiscasset, and has been occupied by the subscriber for a tavern a number of years past. Said Estate consists of a very convenient three story House, a Stable, Barn, Shed, and other out houses, with a good well of water, and an aqueduct leading to the house, with about one hundred and ten acres of excellent Land, having a young Orchard on the same, said Farm is under excellent improvement. —ALSO—
A FARM in the town of Freeport, at Frost's corner, is called, within one mile of Porter's landing consisting of fifty four acres of excellent land, a convenient Dwelling house, Barn, &c. Said Farm is under good improvement, is well watered, cuts about fifteen tons of Hay, and has an Orchard which bears considerable fruit yearly, and is well situated, either for a Farmer Merchant or Mechanic. The above Farms will be sold together or separate as may best suit the purchaser. For terms (which will be made easy) please to apply to the subscriber at North-yarmouth. SETH MITCHELL. North-yarmouth, August 21, 1809. (t.f)
FOR SALE, IN GORHAM,
A two Story DWELLING-HOUSE, with a Barn and Out-Houses, from ten to twenty-five acres of good LAND, with a small Orchard and good water, adjoining Preumpscot river, eleven miles from Portland—a convenient stand for a tavern, tradesman, or Mechanic. Also—a good SAW-MILL;—A part or the whole of said property will be sold, as may best suit the purchaser—for a small part down, and a credit of four or seven years will be given if requested, for the remainder.—For further particulars inquire of JOSHUA SWETT, in said Gorham. (t.f) July 24.
Eliphalet Smith, KEEPS constantly for sale, an extensive assortment of Webbing and knitting Cotton Yarn, and Sewing Threads. Also, Cotton bed-tickings, Sheeting, Shurtings, and striped and check'd Cloths.—Other Goods as usual. (3 m *) Portland, July 3, 1809.
COLLEGE LANDS.
THE Subscriber offers for sale, the following Tracts of LAND, belonging to Harvard College, the title to which is direct from the Government, viz.
 IN FRYEBURG, Lot No. 35 1st Div. 53 acres, interval. 18 2d do. 35 do. do. 22 2d do. 54 do. upland. 10 3d do. 50 do. do. 18 4th do. 50 do. do. 18 5th do. 60 or 70 do. do.  IN TURNER, Lot No. 31, 135 acres. 86, 125 do. 165, 150 do. 277, 125 do.  IN PARIS, Lot No. 27, 7th Range. 28, 7th do. 29, 85th do. } 400 acres in all.  IN LIVERMORE, Lot No. 78, 100 acres. 98, 100 do. 149, 100 do.  IN OTISFIELD, Lot No. 116, 3d Div. 100 acres. 1, 2d R. 4th D. 100 do. 5, 8th R. 5th D. 100 do. 15, 
The above Lands will be sold on a liberal credit, and Settlers now on any of the Lots will be accommodated if they wish it. For particulars, apply to the Subscriber, at his Office, in Middle-street, Portland. PRENTISS MELLEN. July 24, 1809. (t.f)
Thomas Hunter, Watch and Clock maker—No. 72, Fore-street, PORTLAND, HAS for sale, an English patent linen MANGLE, well calculated for linen and Boarding-houses, saving all labour of ironing. A large quantity of Men's and Children's SHOES, at low prices. London patent liquid and cake Blacking, and English Shoe-brushes, of a superior quality. Spectacles, to suit all ages. Reading Glasses; Razors; warranted Umbrellas and Parasols, made and repaired. Also—The above Premises to be sold, consisting of a Store, a House and Barn. July 17.
A FARM FOR SALE,
IN the town of Falmouth, in the county of Cumberland, consisting of one hundred and five acres of Land, of which thirty is Interval, and lying on Preumpscot River, and five miles from the town of Portland, and on the post road that leads from Portland to Augusta, and into many of the Back towns. Said farm is conveniently situated for a Public House, with a large two story House and Barn, with out houses. The soil of said farm is inferior to none.—Inquire of OLIVER WINSLOW. O. 17. (t.f)
TO BE SOLD,
A Valuable FARM in Winthrop, county of Kennebec, belonging to the subscribers, consisting of one hundred and seventy-five acres of excellent Land, well watered—on which is a good two story House, and out houses, and two Barns, and two very excellent Orchards, which are very profitable—Said Farm is situated near the Mills in said town. Payment made easy to the purchaser. SAML JOY, ABIJAH JOY. August 28.
New-York Snuff.
C. METCALF, at his Book-store and Lottery Office, Front Street, Bath, has just received a fresh supply of Lorillard's, Maccoby & Rappie Snuff. Also—For sale as above. TICKETS in the Rhode Island Coal Lottery, which commences drawing next month—and a few in the Lehigh Navigation Lottery, which will be drawn in October—Price of Tickets, three dollars. August 28. (4w)
For sale by Auction, On THURSDAY, Sept. 21, at 11 o'clock, on the premises, A Two story HOUSE, near Gorham's corner, in Fore street, the lower part lately occupied by Mr. Daniel Keene, as a Grocery store. Terms at the sale. D. PEASE, Auctioneer. September 4.
Dr. Merrill,
HAS Removed from Mr. Cox's, to Mrs. McDonald's, in Dr. Coffin's brick buildings, head of Federal-street. Sept. 4.
FOR SALE,
A Lot of Land, lying on the east side of Ann street, adjoining William Minor's house—being 50 feet front, and 130 or 140 feet back. For further particulars inquire at this office. Sept. 4.
Prentiss Mellen,
HAS formed a connection in business with WILLIAM B. SEWALL—his office will be constantly open, and all business committed to either will receive immediate and faithful attention. August 21.
THE subscriber wishes to inform the Heirs of the honorable Enoch Freeman, Esq. that he hath his bond for a large sum for building his house, unsettled; he therefore wishes they would call on him for settlement, to prevent further trouble, and they will oblige their good friend. ROBERT MCDONALD. Standish, Sept. 4.
THE subscribers hereby give public notice to all concerned, that they have been duly appointed and have taken upon themselves the trust of Executors of the last will and testament of DANIEL BUCKNAM, late of Hebron, in the county of Cumberland, gentleman, deceased, by giving bond as the law directs.—They therefore request all persons who are indebted to the said deceased's estate, to make immediate payment; and those who have any demands thereon, to exhibit the same to SHEPHARD BUCKNAM, CALVIN BUCKNAM, August 31, 1809. (S 4)
THE subscriber hereby gives public notice to all concerned, that she has been duly appointed, and has taken upon herself the trust of administratrix on the estate of SIMON MARSTON, late of Minot, in the county of Cumberland, deceased, by giving bond as the law directs.—She therefore requests all persons who are indebted to the said deceased's estate, to make immediate payment; and those who have any demands thereon, to exhibit the same to HANNAH MARSTON. July 29, 1809. (Sept 4)
THE subscriber hereby gives public notice to all concerned, that he has been duly appointed and has taken upon himself the trust of administrator on the estate of JOSEPH SAWYER, late of Durham, in the county of Cumberland, Trader, deceased, by giving bond as the law directs.—He therefore requests all persons who are indebted to the said deceased's estate, to make immediate payment; and those who have any demands thereon, to exhibit the same to ISAAC DAVIS. August 28, 1809.
THE subscribers appointed by the Hon. Samuel Freeman, Esq. Judge of Probate of Wills, &c. in and for the county of Cumberland, to receive and examine the claims of the creditors to the estate of SAMUEL WHITMORE JUN. late of Gorham, in said county, gentleman, deceased, represented insolvent, hereby give notice, that a further time of two months from the 23d inst is allowed to said creditors to exhibit and prove their claims; and that the commissioners will attend for that purpose at the office of Joseph Adams in said Gorham, on Thursday the twenty first day of September next, and on Thursday the twelfth day of October next, at two o'clock in the afternoon of each of said days. LOTHROP LEWIS, } Comm'res. JOS. ADAMS. Gorham, Aug. 25, 1809
THE subscriber hereby gives public notice to all concerned, that he has been duly appointed and has taken upon himself the trust of an Executor of the last will and testament of KEZIA BANCROFT, late of Portland, in the county of Cumberland, deceased, by giving bond as the law directs.—He therefore requests all persons who are indebted to the said deceased's estate, to make immediate payment; and those who have any demands thereon, to exhibit the same to J. D. HOPKINS, Executor. July 27, 1809.
THE subscriber hereby gives public notice to all concerned, that he has been duly appointed and has taken upon himself the trust of an Administrator on the estate of JOHN ALGER MILLIKEN, late of Scarborough, in the county of Cumberland, yeoman, deceased, by giving bond as the law directs.—He therefore requests all persons who are indebted to the said deceased's estate, to make immediate payment; and those who have any demands thereon, to exhibit the same to JAMIMA MILLIKEN, agent to the subscriber. ALEXA. MILLIKEN. August 19, 1809.
COURT & COMMERCIAL BLANKS, NEATLY executed on good paper with a fair Type, kept constantly for sale at the Bookstore of ISAAC ADAMS.
Education of Youth in the United States.
THE principles of the Sciences and of such branches of literature and the arts, as are of common use and application, may be taught from elementary books compiled and published in any country. But in every country, there are many facts which are local, and interesting chiefly to the inhabitants of that country. This is particularly the case with the history, geography, laws, constitutions and local usages of a nation. This circumstance renders it expedient that many of the books designed for the instruction of youth should be compiled with a special reference to the improvement of such youth in the branches of knowledge most useful and necessary for them, as citizens of a particular country. With a special view to these important objects, Mr. WEBSTER, has devoted a considerable portion of his life, to the composition & publication of the following School Books:
The American Spelling Book.
This work is well known to be used in all the United States, and it contains some tables very necessary for American Youth, not found in any work of the kind. The following opinion of its merits has been expressed by respectable Instructors.
HAVING examined the revised copy of Mr. Webster's Spelling Book, we are of opinion the work is very much improved both by the new tables and lessons, as well as in the accuracy of the execution. The simplicity of the scheme of pronunciation, the classification of the several kinds of words, the arrangement of all parts, and the suitability of the tables for teaching the youth of America what is appropriate to their country, are excellencies in this book which we have not seen in any other, and in our opinion, give it a claim to universal patronage.
DANIEL CROCKER, BELA KELLOGG, EZEKIEL W. MORSE, HEMAN HUMPHREY. New-Haven, July 5, 1805.
A Philosophical & Practical Grammar of the English Language.
In the compilation of this work, the author has deviated from the usual course of investigation, and deduced the principles of the Language from the Primitive Anglo-Saxon. He has proved, in the most satisfactory manner, that some of the principles of Lowth, Murray, and other authors of English Grammars, are entirely erroneous. Of the merits of this work, the following is the opinion of that eminent classical scholar, President Smith of Nassau Hall, in Princeton—expressed in a letter to the author.
"I CONSIDER your Philosophical and Practical Grammar, as containing the best analysis of the language which has been given to the public. It has happily improved the opening made, many years since, into that subject, by the ingenious Horne Tooke. I have often been surprised that his ideas have not been more highly appreciated than they seem to have been by English Philologists. Your good judgment has made them the basis of your plan, and on that foundation, you have reared, in my opinion, a more complete System of Grammar, than any writer who has preceded you. SAMUEL S. SMITH. "Princeton, July 31, 1807."
The American Selection of Essays, for the use of Schools.
This Selection, which is extensively used, contains the rules for correct reading and speaking, with a valuable and various collection of Essays, Historical pieces, Poetical compositions and Dialogues, some of them appropriate to a system of education in this country.
Elements of Useful Knowledge.
In three small volumes.—The two first volumes contain a brief Historical and Geographical account of the United States, divided into suitable sections, for the convenience of readers in classes. The third volume contains, in a like form, a geographical account of the Eastern Continent, and the Islands in the South Seas. Perhaps no books ever published, contained so many important facts in so short a compass, and arranged so conveniently for the use of Schools. The history of the American Colonies and States is compiled with care from the most authentic sources, and is adapted to teach the youth of this country what none ought to neglect or be ignorant of. In those States where this work is known, it is used in schools with general approbation. The following Commendation is from Characters of the first respectability.
WE have examined the first and second volumes of the Elements of Useful Knowledge, published by Noah Webster, Jun. Esq. containing a Historical and Geographical account of the United States. We are of opinion the work is well conceived and judiciously executed. It comprises a series of facts, important to be known and understood by American youth. The arrangement of the subjects, under distinct heads, is happily calculated to assist the memory, and render the performance peculiarly useful for Academies and Schools. We with pleasure recommend it to parents and instructors, as well adapted to the improvement of their children and pupils. JAMES DANA, Trustee Yale College. ELIZUR GOODRICH, Professor of Law, do. BENJ. SILLIMAN, Professor of Chemistry, do. SIMEON BALDWIN, Judge of Sup. Court.
The Third Volume, published since the foregoing was written, is executed on a similar plan, and with equal care and diligence. Chester, December 15, 1807. HAVING examined and used, in a course of instruction, Mr. Webster's Elements of Useful Knowledge, I think the work well calculated to answer the end for which it is intended. It appears to contain a judicious collection of facts in History, Geography and common literature, very proper to be impressed on the minds of children and youth; the whole being interspersed with suitable reflections, and arranged in convenient order to be read, or studied by such as are further advanced in science. I therefore recommend it to be used in Schools and Academies. TILLOTSON BRONSON, Principal of the Episcopal Academy.
A Dictionary of the English Language, compiled for the use of common schools in the United States.
In this work the author has pursued a plan somewhat similar to that of other Compilers of School Dictionaries; but this book has the peculiar advantage of the best collection of words in common use, without a great number of obsolete words which are found in Entick, Perry, Walker, Johnson in miniature, and all other English compilations.—In addition to this, more than a thousand words are added, which are used by the best writers and speakers, but not found in any book of the kind. (For sale by Isaac Adams and Stephen Patten, of Portland, and Ezekiel Goodale of Hallowell.) VI.
A Compendious Dictionary of the English Language.
Containing the best collection of English words ever published in a Dictionary—a collection which was not made without many years reading. The following testimonials will show the estimation in which this work is held by men of letters in our country.
From the Faculty of Yale College.
The insertion of local terms in your small Dictionary, we approve.—No good reason can be given, why a person who meets with words of this kind, should not be able to find their meaning in a Dictionary; the only place where it can usually be found at all. Nor can we see, why a liberty granted to other Lexicographers, should be denied to you. We are also pleased with your insertion of chemical, botanical, and some other scientific words; and with the list in these cases, to be increased rather than lessened. In these and several other particulars, we think, that the Dictionary which you have already published, is, what you justly style it, a Dictionary with considerable improvements. We are respectfully, Sir, Your obedient servants, TIMOTHY DWIGHT, President. ELIZUR GOODRICH, Professor of Law. JEREMIAH DAY, Professor of Math. & Phil. BENJAMIN SILLIMAN, Chem. Prof. JAMES L. KINGSLY, Prof. of Languages. NOYES DARLING, JOHN HALL, DAVID A. SHERMAN, SERENO E. DWIGHT, MILLS DAY, } Tutors.
A letter from Dr. John Wheelock, President of Dartmouth College, to the author:
DARTMOUTH COLLEGE, Aug. 4, 1806. Sir,—Having carefully examined your Compendious Dictionary, I am happy to express my favorable opinion of the work, as exhibiting an extensive survey, critical researches, just conclusions and useful improvements in our native language. Every skillful endeavor to develop the principles of a science so conducive to the happiness of man, and to reduce it to correct and chaste rules of practice, is justly entitled to the approbation and encouragement of all candid and enlightened minds.
I may assure you that the professors of this institution, who have examined the performance, accord with me in their favorable opinion of its merit; and in contemplating the future advantage resulting from it to the interests of civil society, and the republic of letters. Please to accept the assurances of my great consideration, and believe me to be, Sir, Your very respectful, and obedient servant JOHN WHEELOCK.
WILLIAMS COLLEGE, Dec. 10, 1806.
We the undersigned, having examined with care and attention, a Compendious Dictionary of the English Language by Noah Webster, Esq. are much pleased with the work. In orthography, pronunciation, etymology, and the definition of words, it corrects many errors and abuses found in the best Dictionaries now in use. It is much more copious and gives a more full and accurate definition of many words, than any other Compendium; and may therefore serve very well as a substitute for an octavo Dictionary. The compiler, in his researches into the origin of the English language, and in his accurate knowledge and development of its principles, surpasses, in our opinion, the compilers of all other Dictionaries, with which we are acquainted. The work, in our view, highly merits the approbation and patronage of all the friends of literary improvement in America and England. We with the writer succeeds in the compilation of the larger work, in which we understand, he is assiduously engaged. EBENEZER FITCH, President. GAMALIEL S. OLDS, Prof. of Math. and Natural Phil. TIMOTHY P. GILLET, HORATIO WALDO, } Tutors. HENRY STARR, Preceptor of the Grammar School.
Extract of a letter from the Rev. Jeremiah Atwater, Professor of Middlebury College, dated October 3, 1806, to the author:
DEAR SIR, I highly approve of your Compendious Dictionary in general, and have no hesitation in giving my opinion, that it will in time, be received into extensive use in this part of America. I have ever thought that as citizens of an independent nation, we ought not to rely servilely on the English nation for books to explain the language spoken in our country. I trust that you will persevere in your laudable pursuit, and be enabled to accomplish your principal design. An enlightened public will sooner or later do justice to your highly meritorious exertions. I am, Sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, JEREMIAH ATWATER.
The foregoing BOOKS are sold by most of the Booksellers in Massachusetts, New-Hampshire and Maine.
The author of these several publications is engaged in compiling a Complete Dictionary of the English Language, a work of vast labor and expense, intended as a valuable improvement of the best Dictionaries now in use. His means are inadequate to the necessary expenses to be incurred; but a more general use of his School Books in the United States, would enable him to complete the work. It is hoped that the friends of literature will aid him as far as may be convenient; and that in cases where his books are deemed as good as others of a like kind, they will give them a preference. The plan of his Dictionary has received the approbation of eminent scholars.