Herald of the United States (Warren, R.I.), 1806-03-01 00:00:00

Gerald of the United States.
WARREN:—PUBLISHED NEAR THE POST-OFFICE, BY NATHANIEL PHILLIPS.
[No. 22, of Vol. XIV.]
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1806.
[Whole No. 688.]
WEEKLY ALMANACK.
   MARCH. D. S. M. T. W. TH. FR. SA. REMARKS.     2 Sunday, 6 26 6 4 3 5 52   3 Monday, 6 25 6 4 50 6 44   4 Tuesday, 6 23 6 5 27 7 36 1st Congress met 1789.   5 Wednesday, 6 22 6 5 56 8 34   6 Thursday, 6 20 6 7 2 9 27   7 Friday, 6 18 6 8 15 10 12   8 Saturday, 6 17 6 9 27 11 2  
Cotton Warp and Filling.
A LARGE supply, of various numbers, at the Factory prices, per bundle or otherwise, for sale by the subscriber, opposite the Baptist Meeting-House.
WHERE ALSO MAY BE HAD,
Best American
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per barrel or less quantity, on as good terms as can be obtained at the Mills.
European, East & West-India GOODS, &c. &c.
PASCHAL ALLEN.
WARREN, Feb. 8, 1806.
RANGING TIMBER.
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Two or three APPRENTICES to the ROPE-MAKING BUSINESS, apply to CHARLES WHEATON.
Warren, Jan. 31, 1806.
A MAN LOST.
A MAN by the name of SAMUEL THURSTON, subject to fits of derangement, left his family in October last, and no information can be obtained respecting him. He was 63 years of age, rather tall, very talkative when crazy, inclined to call himself by different names, to have his hair very close, to tear his clothes, &c. If any person can give information of said THURSTON, he will confer a peculiar favor on his distressed wife by inclosing a letter in the Mail, to SARILLAH THURSTON, to be lodged in the Post-Office in Hardwick.
The benevolence of Printers in New-England is solicited so far as to insert this Advertisement.
Hardwick, Jan. 18, 1806.
Public Official Documents.
DOCUMENTS RESPECTING OUR CONNEXION, &c. WITH THE EX-BASHAW OF TRIPOLI.
(Continued from our last.)
Conclusion of Commodore BARRON's letter to Captain HULL.
EVERY support will, of course, be given to him by a systematic union of operations with the squadron, so as to enable him to get in the rear of the town; but should he be found deficient in those qualities, or that it appears we have been deceived in regard to the disposition of the inhabitants, he must be held as an unfit subject for further support or co-operation. I beg leave to mention to you, that as we are short of officers, the services of all will be wanted on board the respective ships, as soon as we enter upon offensive measures. Should you conceive, however, that any serious disadvantage may result from withdrawing those with you, I have no objection to their remaining as volunteers; but it is impossible for me to comply with your requisition for 100 marines, to be sent to the coast. Such a step, in the present posture of affairs, far exceeds my powers, and, besides, as we are rather short of hands, I could not feel myself justified in detaching so considerable a force from the squadron. I have not been unmindful of your requisition for field artillery, which I think with you, is essential, but here it was impossible to procure it; I therefore dispatched, some days since, the Congress frigate to Messina, where I hope to obtain four field pieces, complete for service, and as soon as they arrive, they will be sent to the coast, with the necessary ammunition. As I am still too unwell to write you with my own hand, I must refer you to Captain Hull, in whose judgment and discretion I have the fullest confidence, for information on several collateral points, and for my sentiments on others. In this letter I have endeavoured to explain, as clearly as possible, what are my ideas with respect to the wishes and intentions of our government, and what I feel to be the extent of my authority, relative to the co-operation with Hamet bashaw. I reiterate my fixed resolution to afford you every support and assistance which are consistent with the powers and resources vested in me, adding, at the same time, my
diffident from any guarantee, covenant or agreement, by which the United States may stand committed, to place the exiled prince on the throne, or any condition which militates against the most perfect and uncontrolled power of choice and action, in concluding a pacification with Jussuf bashaw, should he offer terms honorable and advantageous to our country.
I should be wanting in justice to you, Sir, as well as to the officers who have shared thus far your toils and dangers, were I not to express my full reliance upon your courage, energy and perseverance, as well as my ardent desire that your most sanguine expectations may be realized. The observations which I here convey to you are far from being intended to cool your zeal or discourage your expectations, but they are what I conceive it necessary to make, and drawn from me by the purest feelings of duty, and as such, permit me to recommend them to your calm and candid consideration, and I request that you will make them the subject of conversation with Captain Hull, who is fully possessed of my sentiments.
(COPY.)
From Commodore BARRON to the Secretary of the Navy.
Malta, 6th April, 1805.
Sir,  HAVING in my respects of yesterday given a full account of the present disposal of the squadron under my command, and whatever had occurred of notice since my preceding despatches, I have now the honor to lay before you a sketch of Mr. Eaton's transactions in Egypt, and the measures which have been in consequence thereof adopted. The accompanying communications from that gentleman to the navy department, joined with copies of those addressed to me, and the collateral correspondence between Capt. Hull and him, to all which I beg leave to refer you minutely, will afford you a wide view of the subject, whilst it precludes the necessity of lengthy comments from me. You will there perceive the many and unforeseen difficulties which Mr. Eaton met with in finding the ex-bashaw, who had joined the fortunes of the Mamelukes. You will be apprised of the situation in which matters stood at the departure of the Argus from Alexandria, on the 19th of February, and the plan which he had chalked out to pursue the intended co-operation with Hamet. On receipt of these advices I made immediate arrangements to send such part of the succors requested by the bashaw, and Mr. Eaton, as could be procured here, and as I considered myself authorized by my instructions to afford; and Captain Hull failed again on the 26th ultimo, in the Argus, with the Hornet sloop, (the same which I mentioned having purchased) under convoy, carrying a supply of money, provisions, &c. He directed his course for Bomba, (a place about 60 miles to the eastward of Derne) where, as you will collect from the papers inclosed, he confidently expected to open a communication with the bashaw, and his followers. Such, Sir, is the present situation of the business.
I am well aware that you will feel an anxiety to know my opinion with regard to the probable success of this co-operation; but until I have further intelligence and more data to go by, it were improper even to hazard a conjecture. In perusing the letters from Mr. Eaton, and weighing the nature and consequences of certain measures in his contemplation, I must own that I have felt some uneasiness arising out of a fear that he has taken a wider scope in his engagements to the bashaw, than is compatible with the ideas and intentions of government, or with the authority vested in me, as regards to the subject of co-operation. I have stated this apprehension in a communication to Mr. Eaton, in which I have also explained, in precise terms, my own ideas, and how far I conceived he might proceed, without committing himself or the country. A copy of my letter will be found annexed. I feel confident that the sentiments there expressed, and the principles laid down, with respect to the plan in question, will meet your approbation.
From the concurring information, principally from persons we have acquainted with the bashaw, which I have recently received of his character and conduct, I confess that my hopes from a co-operation with him are less sanguine than they were. Perhaps, however, I may shortly have reason to raise my expectations to their former standard; but till something occurs to justify the belief that he possesses more courage, energy and talents, than those who appear to know him well, give him credit for, it would be reprehensible to flatter myself or the government with prospects, which the result may disappoint. I am equally at a loss to calculate the effects of this co-operation upon the mind of the reigning bashaw; a short time will throw light upon this interesting point. In the mean while I cannot conceal from you my candid opinion, that from the obstinacy hitherto evinced by Jussuf Bashaw, and the pertinacity of his character, not ornized with bravery and other qualities belonging to a soldier, added to the natural
advantages of his situation, the contest promises to be more arduous than was at first anticipated. Our co-operation with Hamet may, and in all probability will, induce him either to offer us terms at once; or, finding his dominions menaced, and his life endangered, to put every thing to the hazard of war. In the latter case we may naturally conclude that his resistance will not only be obstinate, but desperate. I look with anxiety for the return of the vessel which failed a few days since for Tripoli, with supplies for the prisoners; she will undoubtedly bring important intelligence.
The ex-bashaw's secretary of state, whom you will find mentioned in Mr. Eaton's correspondence, returned in the Argus, to join his master. He appeared to be a sensible, discreet old man; he brought me a letter from the bashaw, a translation of which, with a copy of my answer, is attached to the accompanying papers.
Commodore BARRON to WM. EATON, Esquire. Malta, 18th April, 1805.
Sir,  I HAD the honor of addressing you very fully on the 22d ult. by Captain Hull; since when I have received no advices from the Barbary coast. It was not till the 12th inst. that the Congress arrived here from Messina, with the field artillery, which Captain Decatur experienced a considerable delay and difficulty in procuring. It was my intention to have sent the frigate to the coast, but on making particular enquiry of a pilot well acquainted in that quarter, I found that the impracticability of approaching the shore with heavy vessels, renders the communication extremely uncertain and difficult. I have, therefore, thought it prudent to waive my original intention, and to dispatch the Nautilus Schooner, whose light draught of water will enable her to approach the coast with greater safety and advantage. Capt. Dent shapes his course for Bomba, where I calculate he will find you with the bashaw and army, and where I hope he will have little difficulty in establishing an intercourse. He has on board his Schooner two brass field pieces, with trains, powder, shot, &c. complete, which he is directed to deliver to your possession. I hope they will reach you safe, and have no doubt they will be found extremely serviceable in the progress of your operations. Nothing material has occurred since Capt. Hull's departure. The harbour of Tripoli remains closely blockaded. The President frigate failed this day to reinforce the vessels already on that station. Capt. Dent is instructed, after delivering the artillery and stores, to return immediately to this port, with despatches from you. You will readily imagine my anxiety to hear of your proceedings and prospects. I am, &c.
(Signed) S. BARRON.
Extract of a letter from WILLIAM EATON to Commodore BARRON, dated Derne, April 29th, 1805.
THE information I have the honor to forward this date, stating, in abstract, occurrences since my last, will not disappoint the expectations my calculations there may have formed. Certain periods of your letter of the 22d ult. require a distinct and separate answer. This I shall do with candor.
It was understood when government came to the determination to try the effect of a co-operation with Hamet Bashaw, against the enemy, that provision would be made, adequate to the experiment; six field pieces, a thousand stand of arms, with suitable ammunition, and eighty thousand dollars, were asked for by Hamet Bashaw, while yet in possession of this province, and gaining ground against the Usurer. The Secretary of the Navy informed me that the arms, ammunition, and fifty thousand dollars would be furnished, and they were to have been put on board in Hampton roads. While the squadron were getting ready for sea, information arrived of the Bashaw having been driven from his post, and retired to Egypt. In consequence of which it is to be presumed the supplies getting in readiness were withheld, as the success of the experiment then appeared very doubtful. The twenty thousand dollars deposited with the consul general at Algiers, to be supplied to this service, cannot be supposed adequate to the purpose of bringing the Bashaw from his exile in Egypt, placing him in a situation to act against a rival, possessed of all the resources of his kingdom, and carrying his plan of operations into effect, whatever may have been the dispositions of the people towards him. The twenty thousand dollars, therefore, could have been means only to assist the re-establishment of the Bashaw, and the revival of his affairs, in case our plan should be thought feasible. Hence I think it is not presuming too far to conclude, that the unlimited discretion vested in the commander in chief, in regard to all the exigencies of the war, and particularly as it relates to the object in view, extends to every matter necessary to its accomplishment. The instructions of the Secretary of the Navy, certainly cannot mean to tie him down to any limited applications.
The advantages calculated to result from the success of this measure have heretofore been stated, and thus far the experiment has not
disappointed these calculations. We are in possession of the most valuable province of Tripoli; the high estimation the enemy places on this department of the kingdom, is evidenced by the extraordinary efforts he has used to defend it, and by the menaces to which he has resorted to deter us from the operations here; his camp was not only fourteen hours march from the place, when we seized it by assault. I am this evening informed they are retreating, and only regret we have not the means of pursuing them. The expenses already incurred in this expedition, will amount to near seventy thousand dollars; for thirteen thousand of which we are indebted to Messrs. Briggs and Brothers, of Alexandria, eleven thousand have been received through the hands of Capt. Hull, including his advance and drafts in Egypt. I have disbursed nearly two thousand, and for the residue shall be indebted to individuals. This expense will not appear extravagant, when it is considered that it covers all our expenditures in Egypt, where many sacrifices were necessary to pass the barriers of Turkish jealousy and avidity, in getting the Bashaw through that country; of furnishing horses, tents, arms and ammunition preparatory to entering the desert; of provisioning a thousand two hundred men, and about two hundred horses, in the barren desert, upwards of forty days, a distance of nearly five hundred miles, and of carriage for transporting these provisions the whole distance from Alexandria, and also the unavoidable expenditures in presents to chiefs, and payments to troops, in order to gain the one, and avail ourselves of the services of the other.
(To be continued.)
Foreign Intelligence.
MILITARY OPERATIONS ON THE CONTINENT.
GRAND ARMY BULLETINS.
THE XXIIId of these French Papers is dated at St. Polten, Nov. 13, 1805. It says, Marshal Soult has completely destroyed the corps (12,000) of Meerfeldt. Gen. Marmont is at Leoben [about 60 miles S. W. of Vienna.] The Austrians have left Vienna. The Russians have crossed the Danube at Krems, [about 30 miles W. of Vienna;] and burnt the elegant bridge there. Marshal Mortier was at Stein the 11th, with six battalions; then commenced the battle of Diernstein (not far from Krems,) 4000 French opposed the Russian army under Kutusow, took 10 colours, 6 field pieces, and 900 men, and killed 2000. Exasperated at this loss, the Russians surrounded Mortier, who cut his way through them, and carried off two standards, and 400 prisoners. Our loss was considerable. It was a bloody day. More than 4000 Russians were killed, and 1300 made prisoners.—Colonel Wattier, one of His Majesty's aids-de-camp had his horse killed under him, and was taken prisoner. The Russians after the action retired towards Olmutz [about 100 miles nearly N. of Vienna.] The Austrian Emperor and Court are at Brunn; where the Emperor Alexander is expected. Count de Guilay has brought dispatches from the Emperor of Austria.—These dispatches related to a proposition of peace; the Emperor Napoleon named Talleyrand as the negotiator on his part; but the terms insisted upon were considered by the German Emperor so hard, that the negotiation was broken off.] Since the passage of the Inn, we have taken about 10,000 prisoners.—The Russians are pursued with vigor.
The XXIIId bulletin is dated, Schoenbrunn, a palace of the Austrian Emperor, in the vicinity of Vienna, Nov. 14, 1805. It repeats the eulogiums on Mortier's affair at Diernstein. Several regiments covered themselves with glory. The Russians next day quitted Krems, and the Danube, leaving 1500 sick and wounded. They intended to wait at Krems for reinforcements; but the battle of Diernstein disconcerted them. Mortier's, Bernadotte's, and another corps, are marching to surround the Russian ar-

my. Yesterday Prince Murat passed through Vienna. A column passed the bridge, which the Austrians were unable to destroy. The troops do not stop in Vienna. The Austrians have not had time to carry off more than one quarter of their artillery. We have found warlike stores here enough for four campaigns; and to renew our artillery four times were we to lose it. The Emperor resides at the palace at Schoenbrunn. In the night he visited Vienna, and the Danube, to satisfy himself every duty was well performed; and returned at day-break to the palace. The Emperor has given the Elector of Bavaria 15,000 stand of arms taken in Vienna, and all the Bavarian artillery which the Austrians had taken and preserved. Marshal Lannes has taken Stockrau, where he found 100,000 shoes and boots, and cloth enough to make great coats for the whole army. In Vienna, we found 1547 cannon, of various kinds and sizes, 473 mortars, 109,292 muskets, &c. &c.
Marshal Berthier, by order of the Emperor, this day issued an order, dated Nov. 18, 1805, in which the Emperor thanks various corps for their good conduct at the battles of Diersstein, Lambach, Amstetten, on the Inn, and at Stein, in which 2700 prisoners were taken, of which a great proportion were Russians. It adds, " that the property of the people of Vienna, who seemed to receive the army with friendship, should be held sacred; as they have been held with sorrow the unjust war against France, and entertain hatred for the Russians—a people, who by their savage and barbarous manners, ought to be detested by every civilized nation. "
The XXIVth bulletin is dated at Schoenbrunn, Nov. 15, 1805. It still dwells on the battle of Diersstein, where the Austrian Gen. Smith, who had succeeded Mack, as Q. M. G. was killed. On the propagation of a false report of a suspension of arms, 4000 Austrian infantry, and a regiment of cuirassiers were permitted to pass through our army and go off! — Gen. Milhaud has taken 191 pieces of cannon, and provision waggons, and 400 men. The palace in which the Emperor resides was built by Maria Theresa. On seeing in the cabinet, a marble statue of that Empress, Bonaparte observed, " If that great queen was yet living, she would not let herself be governed by the intrigues of such a woman as Madame de Colerodo. She would have known the will of her people; and would not have permitted her provinces to be ravaged by Cossacs and Muscovites. She would not have consulted such a courtier as Cobenzel; such a writer as Collembach; nor have given the command of her army to such a man as Mack. " The bulletin adds, that Prince Charles, the other Princes, the nobility, and, in short, all classes were opposed to the war; that the Empress, on account of the part she had taken to promote it, was universally hated: — And that " the misfortunes of the continent is the dreadful work of England. " All the columns of the army are advancing rapidly into Moravia.
The XXVth bulletin, also dated at Schoenbrunn, (Vienna) Nov. 16, 1805. Prince Murat, and Marshal Lannes yesterday overtook the Russian rear at Hallabrun, when the enemy were driven from the field, leaving 100 baggage waggons.
The enemy having effected a junction, an Austrian flag requested permission for the German troops to separate from the Austrians. This request was granted. Soon after the Russian Baron Wintzingerode offered to capitulate for the Russian army. — Gen. Belliard, and Gen. Wintzingerode then agreed upon the articles; by which the Russian army under Gen. Kutusow should quit Germany; and Prince Murat should suspend his march in Moravia. This convention is dated Hallabrun, Nov. 15, 1805, and is regularly signed. The Emperor Napoleon did not choose to ratify it, unless
the Emperor Alexander, who was in the neighborhood, would also ratify it.
OF HUNGARY.
Gen. Vialannes has entered Pressburg, in Hungary, (about 30 miles E. of Vienna.) Previous to his entering, General Count Palfri, by order of the Archduke Palatine, proposed to the French General Davoust, to treat for the neutrality of Hungary; when it was proposed, that the French army should not enter Hungary, on condition, that the Hungarian troops should be withdrawn, no rising of the people be allowed, and that Vienna should be supplied with provisions from Hungary, as usual.
Gen. Baraguay d'Hilliers, with three battalions of dismounted dragoons, after driving 3000 Austrians before him arrived at Trinity, (Bohemia) the 8th. Marshal Ney has made himself master of the Tyrol, taking 1800 men, a stand of colours, and 16 field-pieces. At Inspruck (the Capital) he found, besides artillery and powder, 19,000 muskets; and at Halle where he took very valuable magazines. — The Archduke John escaped by Luchsthal. He recommended 1200 sick at Inspruck to the care of the French.
[The XXVIth bulletin, has been heretofore inserted.]
The XXVIIth bulletin is dated Porlitz, Nov. 19, and states, that the enemy were retreating across the plains of Moravia; that Gen. Sebastian was pursuing them sword in hand; and had succeeded in cutting off the retreat of several corps, amounting to 2000 of the Russian division. Prince Murat entered Brunn, (the Capital of Moravia) this day, but the Imperial Headquarters was still at Porlitz. There were found at Brunn, 60 pieces of cannon, 300,000 lbs. of powder, a great quantity of wheat and flour, and considerable magazines of cloathing. The Emperor of Germany had retired to Olmutz, about one day's post from Brunn.
The XXVIIIth bulletin, is dated Brunn, Nov. 21st, and states, that the Emperor Napoleon entered that place on the 20th, escorted by a deputation from the States of Moravia, at the head of which was the Bishop, who had been dispatched to meet him. No mention is made in this bulletin of any resistance being given to its investment; but it observes, that the Russians had united all their cavalry, which composed a corps of about 6000 men, and appeared disposed to defend their position at the junction of the roads between Brunn and Olmutz; from which, however, they were driven with the loss of 200 dragoons, and 100 horses.
The XXIXth bulletin is dated at Brunn, Nov. 23, and gives the details of several skirmishes, in which the French were victorious. It also states that the Austrian Court had quitted Olmutz, and retired to Poland.
GRAND ARMY OF ITALY.
BULLETIN, No. VI.
Is dated at Passino, Nov. 13, 1805. It mentions the retreat of the Archduke Charles from the Piave to Tagliamento; and of the obstinate defence of the last river, by the Austrian cavalry and artillery. The combat lasted the whole day. The corps of Generals Espagne, Marmet, Pulley, Duguesne, Seres, Molter, and Garenne, were engaged in the operations. The cannonade continued the whole day. But the General (Massena) satisfied with the advantages he had gained, and confident of fresh ones, did not wish to effect the passage at that time. At midnight Prince Charles retreated towards Palma Nova. We have passed the river, and continue our march. The advanced guard make many prisoners daily. We are repairing the bridges of the Piave and Tagliamento.
BULLETIN, No. VII, is dated at Gorizia, Nov. 17, 1805. It mentions the retreat of Prince Charles from the Tagliamento towards Carniola, which
the situation of affairs in Germany had rendered indispensable. He did not attempt to defend Palma. On the 15th, the army advanced to the Isonzo (or Lifonzo.) Gen. Espagne entered Gradisca. The enemy were pushed under the walls of Gorizia. An attack was meditated on the 17th, but the Austrians retreated in the night, pursued by Gen. Espagne. The army has taken a position on the left of the Isonzo. In several engagements and skirmishes between the French van and Austrian rear guards, several hundred of the latter have been taken; and the magazines at Udina and Palma Nova.
BULLETIN, No. VIII, is also dated Gorizia, Nov. 24. It states, the army still to retain its position on the Isonzo: — That the Austrians had been driven to Goux: — That Trieste had been taken, where 300 wounded Austrians were found; — That Prince Charles had retired to Leybach: — That in the various movements of the army in the last few days, 550 prisoners had been made, besides the wounded: — That Gen. St. Cyr, from Naples, having been reinforced by a Corsican and Italian corps, was left at Padua, proposed to fall on the Russians and English, should they dare attempt a descent on the coast of Italy.
BULLETIN, No. IX, is also dated at Gorizia, Nov. 27, 1805. It states, that Massena had learnt from the French Ambassador in Switzerland, that an Austrian corps, of between 8 and 9000 men, under the Prince de Rohan, was descending from the Tyrol to make either for Venice, or to join Prince Charles. On the 24th, it was at Bassano, and proceeded to Castel Franco. Gen. St. Cyr made the necessary preparations to receive them; and Massena, leaving the troops on the Isonzo under General Dubesme, proceeded himself, with several divisions to the Piave, to superintend the movements. Gen. St. Cyr stopped the enemy's march. Generals Remy and Navale marched the 29th to Castel Franco. In the evening, Prince Rohan fell violently on Regnier's division, which received him, with the greatest vigor, and immediately repulsed him. He, however, returned several times to the charge, and was always received with the same firmness. Gen. St. Cyr surrounded him; and the route at length became complete to Castel Franco; where our troops arrived as soon as the Austrians. All who were not killed or taken on the field, capitulated. 6000 infantry, and 1000 cavalry, are in our hands; among them the Prince de Rohan, several colonels, and other officers, six standards, 12 pieces of cannon, and immense baggage. We have only lost, 100 killed and wounded; and have recovered the prisoners taken from us at Bassano. [The capture of these has not been mentioned in the bulletin.] — A corps of Croats is expected to have defied by the mountains. They cannot escape us. The roads from Idria to Laybach are covered with spoils.
The official letter from Gen. Lecchi, dated at Degnago, Nov. 23, says, Regnier's division was three times driven back by the Austrians; and that Gen. St. Cyr, meeting the division retreating, ordered the Polish troops to attack the Austrians in flank; — which obliged Prince Rohan to retire to Castel Franco. — Regnier then rallied and took 2000 prisoners; the rest of the Austrians, hemmed in at Villafranca surrendered. 8000 prisoners, 700 horses, 12 cannon, 6 colours, are the result of the victory. Among the prisoners, Prince Rohan, 3 Colonels, 6 Majors, &c. The enemy, he says, lost 600 killed, and 600 wounded.
Further particulars of the BATTLE OF WISCHAU.
From the English Chronicle.
LONDON, DEC. 10 — 2 o'clock.
At this moment we have received a copy of the following Bulletin, circulated in the public offices: —
"A general skirmishing took place on the 29th Nov. between Brunn and Olmutz, and continued to the 23d Dec. when a general action took place near Vienna. — The Russians attacked the enemy for 12 hours, and without firing a musket, killed 27,000 with the bayonet, and took the whole of their artillery. Bonaparte was severely wounded, and requested an armistice, which was refused him. The remains of the French army were at Vienna, and the Emperor of Russia advancing in his rear, with 140,000 men.
"There has also been an action between the Archduke Charles and Massena, in which the latter was defeated, with the loss of 7,000 killed and 10,000 wounded.
BERLIN, DEC. 9.
In the course of yesterday and the preceding day, several couriers arrived here with dispatches relative to the great battle fought in Moravia, on the 2d and 4th inst. between the Russian and French armies. But as the accounts received rest only on verbal reports, we have nothing certain on the subject, except that a very murderous battle has taken place, and that the Emperor Alexander fought with indomitable courage at the head of his guards. This great monarch did not spare himself, but led on his brave soldiers into the hottest of the fire.
The first day the battle was extremely bloody. The Russians had missed their way, by which circumstance the French profited, and
fell on the Russian centre, which they threw into disorder, and the battle continued with various success till night.
On the following morning the battle was renewed; the Russian line being pressed on with indescribable bravery; the French were entirely defeated; and the Russians returned to their former position near Austerlitz. The loss in killed, on both sides, is estimated at 20,000 men.
Prince Pangration distinguished himself in a very eminent manner.
This is all that is known from the couriers that have arrived here to-day.
MORAVIA, DEC. 4.
In the battle of the 2d, the Russians, by the attack of the French, had lost part of their artillery, but towards evening General Kutusow retook the artillery, and rescued the greater part of the prisoners.
On the 3d the battle was renewed, and the fortune of arms declared in favour of the combined army, which resumed its position near Austerlitz, and prepared for a new attack on the 5th.
Victory or death was the word in the battle, which was one of the most bloody in modern history. The contest was decided by the bayonet and the sabre.
The Russian guards, under the grand Duke Constantine, fought with the greatest bravery; the Austrian cavalry likewise contributed greatly to the decision of the battle on the 3d.
HAMBURGH, DEC. 11.
We learn by a letter from Troppau, of the date of the 4th; that a prodigious quantity of blood was shed; and that fortune varied in the two armies. A letter from Berlin, dated the 6th, received here by Ekasante, informs us, that the battle lasted three days and a half. — Fortune seemed in the beginning of it to be in favour of the French, the Russians having lost part of their artillery; but on the 4th she declared completely for the Russians, who fought only with the bayonet and sabre, and the French were forced to retreat upon Vienna. The enormous loss of men, on both sides, is incredible. A person of the highest importance was, we are assured, in the greatest danger, and was only saved, we are assured by the sacrifice of a part of his body guards. — Such is the intelligence we have received; we expect, with impatience, the official accounts.
Brilliant Victory over the French.
The Hamburgh mail due yesterday, arrived this morning, and has brought us what was to be expected, intelligence of the utmost importance.
We congratulate the country upon the confirmation of the account of the defeat of the French, on the 2d; and we have the further satisfaction to announce, that they have experienced another and more — much more decisive defeat.
The allies, who had been successful on the right wing on the 2d Dec. and had not been driven farther than from the field of battle, in the centre, having as we have heard recovered the effects of the mistake of a very good General, now again advanced upon the enemy. — This was the best proof that, though the events of the preceding day had been against them, they did not feel themselves to be decisively defeated. They advanced on the morning of the 3d, against the enemy, without artillery. Hence the battle soon became a contest of the bayonet alone! — As the Allies advanced, the Emperor Alexander, the bravest of heroes, rode through the ranks of the Russians, though exposed to a heavy fire from the French, encouraging them in the most gallant and enthusiastic manner, calling out constantly that it must be victory or death! as he was determined not to quit the field vanquished, and to die rather than to yield. This conduct raised the enthusiasm of his men to the highest pitch, to desperation even; they advanced upon the French under a heavy and galling fire, they themselves scarcely discharging a musket. They soon brought the enemy to close quarters with the bayonet; the bayonet and sabre were now alone used — and Mr. Kaye, the messenger, appears to have spoken with perfect truth, when he said he went on the morning of the 3d, near the field of battle, to try if he could see what was going forward; that he heard shooting and buzzing, but scarcely a musket fired; that it was but now and then that he heard the report of a piece.
In this way, the bayonet and sabre were alone used: the battle lasted all the morning of the 3d: — Most deadly was the struggle. The Russians might fall; but not a man of them would give way. At this mode of fighting they are not only more expert than the French, but they are better fitted for it by that enthusiasm and devotion, when inspired by a great leader, which makes them rather yield their lives to the last man than give way. The struggle with the bayonet lasted in the most murderous manner till noon, when the French gave way, and their main body was totally routed. — Victory now declared for the allies; but still the French contested the ground. The battle continued during the remainder of the 3d; it was renewed on the 4th; and it was not finished until the 5th, when the French were ultimately defeated in all quarters. The allies recovered all their artillery, made considerable captures from the enemy, and finally drove the whole of the French troops beyond the river Swaratzach, behind which they were forced to fly for protection. Bonaparte renewed, and renewed the battle in vain; every stratagem, every excitement be employed to no effect: he has, for the first time in Europe, met with a grand and decided defeat in a general battle.
The official accounts of these glorious and important events had reached Berlin and Hamburgh. Lord Harrowby at the one town, and

Mr. Thornton at the other, together with many other persons, have sent over the news. Sir Arthur Paget's dispatches were, it is supposed, forwarded by Lord Harrowby, by the hands of Mr. Donaldson the messenger, who, having been shipwrecked, has not yet brought his dispatches to town. But it is known that Mr. Donaldson is arrived at Dover, and he is expected in London every minute. In the mean time we can confidentially affirm the accounts we have given are correct. Even the Hamburg papers state the news, and that the allies were at Auferlitz, far in advance of Wiltsch, and consequently not only masters of the field of battle, but of all the country east of the river Swartzach.
The first column of the Prussian troops has arrived in the environs of Novembergh; the other columns are following with the utmost rapidity. A few days more will bring them to the seat of war. Augereau is to command the army destined to protect Bonaparte's rear, and act against the Prussians. He is now at Ulm, and his force, it is said, is to be increased to 60,000 men. But long before his reinforcements arrive, the Prussians will be able to strike a decisive blow. The account of the Archduke Charles having reached Hungary, is confirmed. Maffei is at Laysbach.
From the New-York Gazette, &c.
NEWS.
[Anticipated—from our Correspondent.]
Extra from a Postscript to the Kingston Royal Gazette, of the 25th Jan.
Under the regulations adopted for the two Cork fleets, each vessel had her number painted in large white figures under her main chains; they were directed to proceed in three columns, agreeably to the numbers they bore, at the distance of two cable's length from each other, and the space of a mile and a half to be preserved between the respective columns.
In consequence of the intelligence brought by the Sea-Horse, the Veteran and Malabar men of war have been anchored at the entrance of Port-Royal harbour, and the following circular letter was yesterday issued by his Honor the Lieut. Governor, to the commanders of the different parties:
[CIRCULAR.]
King's House, Jan. 24.
Sir—The Lieutenant-Governor having received intelligence by his Majesty's ship Sea-Horse, capt. Corbet, that 18 sail of French line of battle ships had been seen on the 16th of December, in lat. 46, long. 10, steering a course supposed for the West Indies; his honor thinks it necessary, as a measure of precaution, to acquaint you therewith, for the information of the parish of which you are chief magistrate. The commander in chief directs me to add, that he has caused circular letters to be written to the colonels and commanding officers of the militia regiments and troops of horse, throughout the island, to have a general muster of their respective corps immediately, and to report for his excellency's satisfaction the state of their several commands, as it may be necessary to call them into action, suddenly, at no distant period.
I have the honor to be, Sir, your most obedient humble servant, S. TYRELL, Sec.
Custos or Chief Magistrate of —
Capt. Peile, of the Resolution, of Liverpool, which vessel arrived on Wednesday, at Port Morant, has favoured us with the following extract from his log-book; from which we have every reason to hope, that a British squadron, of equal force, is closely treading on the heels of the enemy:
"On the 10th December, in lat. 35, 30, long. 11, at day-light, perceived a French fleet, in two divisions, one in the S.E. quarter, and the other in the N.W. About 8, A.M. the commander (he Aretaba) made a signal for the fleet to heave too, which was immediately obeyed. At half-past eight the Commander stood into the fleet, with the signal to disperse, and for an enemy in sight. He then stood to the N.N.W. with about ten sail, accompanied by the Bonadicea frigate and the Wasp sloop. At ten, the whole of the enemy's squadron, consisting of 14 line of battle ships, a frigate, a sloop of war, and a brig, pursued the commander. At eleven stood to the S.E. crossing the wake of the enemy's leading ship, almost within gun-shot, to the leeward, when the admiral making a signal, that the enemy's two-deckers stood after us, and chased us till 3, P.M. only the sternmost ships of their fleet being in sight to the N.W. The two ships then tacked, and joined their fleet; we steered a S.S.E. course till dark, and due W. all night. At day-light, on the 17th, saw 14 or 15 sail of very large ships astern, some lying too, and others steering different ways, apparently as if they had lost sight of their pursuit, which we conjectured to be the English fleet."
The Ellen is 35 days from Angola, and 8 from Dominica. She has 269 slaves on board, and was bound to New-Providence, but has put in here in distress. At Dominica she learned that in consequence of information of 14 sail of the line having escaped from Brest, martial law had been proclaimed, but on the day of the Ellen's departure it was taken off, two frigates having arrived at Prince Rupert's, with an account of the arrival of Sir John T. Duckworth at Barbadoes, with five sail of the line, and several frigates.
Vice Admiral Lord Collingwood, on the 11th ult. was off Carthagena, blockading the Spanish squadron in that port, with the following ships, &c.
Britannia, 100 guns, Rear-Admiral W. Earl of Northesk, Capt. C. Bullen; Queen 98, Vice-Admiral Lord Collingwood, Capt. P. Pender; Dreadnought 98, Capt. J. Coan; Prince 98, R. Grindall; Monitor 74, C. J. M. Mansfield; Thunderer 74, Lieut. J. Stockham, (act.); another 74, name unknown; 2 a frigates, and 2 sloops of war.
WARREN:
SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1806.
FOREIGN NEWS.
The ship Averick, capt. Decost, arrived at Charleston, S.C. on the 6th Feb. from Rotterdam, which he left on the 20th December. Capt. D. brought no papers: The information by him is, that there had been some severe actions between the French, Austrians and Russians; that in one of them the Emperor of France had been slightly wounded in the arm; that much bloodshed had taken place, but on the day he left Rotterdam, the report was, that the French were victorious. He further states, that all the Prussian vessels at Rotterdam had been stopped by the Batavian government, and that he was informed a large fleet of transports were seen off the Texel, about the 17th December. It was supposed they were bound to Copenhaven.
Rumour adds to the above, that 200,000 conscripts have reached the French army—that the King of Prussia has attacked Bonaparte in the rear; and that the Dutch have seized and confiscated all the Prussian property within their territory.
FRENCH FLEET IN THE WEST-INDIES.
The Iris, from Salem for Messina, on the 10th of Jan. in lat. 28, 40, long. 29, 30, was detained by a French fleet of 11 sail of the line and 7 frigates, 24 days from Brest, steering S.W. A fleet of 5 sail of the line, and 2 frigates, 36 days from Brest, was spoken Jan. 18, near Martinico.
Captain HICKLAND from Curacoa, informs, that on Jan. 25th, in the Mona Passage, he was boarded by three French men of war, one of them mounting 84 guns, and 1000 men, one of 110 guns, and another of 50. They reported that they were waiting to be joined by a fleet of 10 sail of the line from Brest, and that they were destined against Jamaica, respecting which island they made many enquiries as to its strength, and the force by which it was protected, &c.
FROM ANTIGUA.
St. John's, Antigua, Jan. 14. On Sunday arrived off this harbor, under convoy of his Majesty's ship Figaro, that part of the Cork fleet bound to Jamaica, and proceeded immediately.
Jan. 16. Vice-Admiral DUCKWORTH, and Rear-Admiral LOUIS, with five ships of the line, arrived at Barbadoes a few days past. The Sirius frigate, being in lat. 46, fell in with 18 ships of war, belonging to the enemy, and immediately hastened to Lord Collingwood with the intelligence, who dispatched Admirals Duckworth and Louis in pursuit of them. Off the Cape-de-Verd islands, they chased 6 sail of the enemy's line, supposed to be a part of the force above-mentioned, and supposing the remainder might be destined to the West-Indies, made the best of their way to Barbadoes.
Capt. VAN SCHUYCK, arrived at New-York from Antigua reports, that four days before he sailed, which was on the 24th Jan. a French fleet, of five sail of the line, had been seen under the lee of Montserrat, steering for Barbaterre roads. Two days after a British fleet of seven sail were seen under the lee of Antigua, supposed to be in chase of the French, which was said to be the Rochefort squadron. There is now no doubt of a French squadron being in the West-Indies.
A gentleman who arrived here in the brig Achilles, from Porto-Rico, informs us that a French fleet of 10 sail of the line and 4 frigates, from Brest, had arrived at the city of St. Domingo, and landed 1500 troops. The above news was brought to Porto-Rico by a Danish vessel from Santo Domingo, which was detained in coming out of the harbour 24 hours by the French fleet. Our informant received the above information from the Governor's Secretary. N. Y. Gaz.
A gentleman from the River-of-Plate, heard nothing of the arrival of a British squadron in that quarter.
The Merchants of New-York have petitioned the President of the U.S. for the recall of Gen. ARMSTRONG, our Minister at Paris.
FIRES!
Boston, Feb. 20.—On Tuesday afternoon, a destructive fire broke out in the Rope-Walk, owned by Mr. J. Howe, at the bottom of the Common, in this town; which, in a short time, was consumed, together with five other Walks adjacent; one owned by the estate of JOHN CODMAN, Esq.; one by Mr. SAMUEL EMmons; one by Capt. PENUEL B. ROGERS; and two by Mr. ISAAC P. DAVIS; together with a large quantity of cordage, hemp, tar, &c. Mr. Howe was about finishing some tar-ring, when the copper being over-heated, the tar took fire, and instantly communicated the flames in every direction. The contents of the Walks were partly saved, as well as part of the hemp in Mr. Rogers' fire-proof store. The wind was providentially at S.W. which blew the flames over the common, and confined its ravages to these valuable manufactures. The public, as well as private loss, cannot as yet be ascertained.—It must be very great. Upwards of an hundred industrious men, several of them having families, are thus thrown out of employment. We have not heard of any accident in extinguishing the flames. Our country brethren were early in their assistance on the occasion.
The alarm given on Tuesday night, was occasioned by the rekindling of fire in the bemp left in Capt. Roger's store, which was partly consumed.
An arrival at New-York, from Wilmington, N.C. brings the unpleasant intelligence, that on the 11th instant, a fire broke out in a Bakery, in the centre of that town, and destroyed a whole block of buildings, amounting to about 30.
The store of BRAMHURST and FIELD, Druggists, of New-York, was lately destroyed by fire, occasioned by the breaking of a bottle of aqua fortis. Loss 30,000 dollars.
From the New-York Mercantile Advertiser.
The editor of the Sheffield Iris, (whom we have the pleasure of classing amongst our friends) announces to us the death of the late gallant NELSON, in a style so exquisitely beautiful that we cannot resist the impulse we feel to give it to our readers. "INTELLIGENCE of a most glorious event, accompanied by tidings of an awful calamity (like the Angels of Mercy and Affliction travelling together) has arrived on our shores, and awakened the public mind from the agony of despondence to a tumult of mingled emotions—forrow and joy, mourning and triumph. On the 21st of last month (October) while the cowardly and incapable MACK was surrendering himself alive into the hands of Bonaparte, the noble and lamented Lord NELSON once more, and for the last time, sought and conquered the united ideas of his country; but he fell in the meridian of victory—and in one moment became immortal in both worlds! His career of services had been long: but it was only in the midst of the last war that he burst upon the eye of the public as a luminary of the first magnitude. At the battle of Aboukir he role like the sun in the east; and like the sun too, after a summer's day of glory, he set in the west, at the battle of Trafalgar, leaving the ocean in a blaze as he went down, and in darkness when he had descended. In ages to come, when the stranger who visits our island shall enquire for the monument of NELSON, the answer will be—'Behold his country, which he saved!'"
MARRIED.—At Providence, by the Rev. Mr. Gano, Mr. STEPHEN SMITH, jun. of Pawtuxet, to Miss AMY FISKE WIGHT, of Providence.
A marriage was lately solemnized at Rochelle, (England) where the bride and bridegroom, mother, sister, son, daughter, aunt, nephew and brother, were in all but three persons.
DIED.—In this town, on Friday and Saturday last, two sons, twins of Mr. James Mason, jun. aged 9 weeks.
In Boston, DANIEL SARGENT, Esq. aged 75; an eminent merchant of that town.—Mrs. SARAH BRADLEY, aged 61.—Mrs. HANNAH WOODWARD, aged 58.—At Fort Johnson, N.H. Mr. JOHN GLYNN, aged 31, of the United States Army.—At Norfolk, Mr. GEORGE CAPRON.—At Wiscasset, Mr. ROBERT FOX, aged 86.
SHIP NEWS.
STATE OF RHODE-ISLAND.
DISTRICT OF NEWPORT.
ENTERED. FROM Sloop Fame, Waldin, New-York
DISTRICT OF PROVIDENCE.
ENTERED. FROM Sloop New-York, Brown, New-York Polly, Justin, Ditto Snow Ida, Sayer, Martinique Brig Delight, Foot, Isle of France CLEARED. FOR Schr. Ocean, Barney, St. Bartholomews Brig John, Greene, Havana Hiram, Mauran, Ditto Hiram, Briggs, Washington
DISTRICT OF BRISTOL.
ENTERED. FROM Sloop Becca & Berfy, Pearle, Providence Caroline, Phillips, Havana Schr. Hope, Luther, Ditto Brig Ann & Hope, Haile, Ditto Columbia, Carr, Ditto Angenora, Gladding, Ditto CLEARED. FOR Sloop Phoebe, Kelly, Charleston (S.C.) Sally & Ann, Church, New-York Aurora, Calhoun, Boston Friendship, Brown, Ditto Ann & Sarah, Langley, Ditto Becca & Berfy, Pearle, Providence Rebeckah, Hicks, Ditto Sophronia, Oxz, Ditto Lydia, Oxz, Newport
Arrived, at Newport, yesterday morning, brig Fame, Atwood, 13 days from Havana, failed in company with the ship Monticello, Collins, of Bristol (R.I.) for Boston.
The brig Warren, Coggeshall, of this port, was left at New-Orleans, Feb. 6, to sail for Liverpool in 20 days.
Sailed, from Kingston, (Jam.) Jan. 18, brig Pilgrim, Smith, of Pawtuxet, for Savannah.
NEW-YORK, FEB. 22.
Yesterday about 25 sail of square-rigged vessels failed from this port with a brisk breeze from N.W. The brig Hunter, Whipple, missed stays, and grounded on Governor's-Island; but, we expect, will be got off with little damage.
BOSTON, FEB. 17.
The Lehr. Delia, Manwaring, from New-York, went on shore a few days since near Orleans. The crew got on shore, when the Lehr. floated, was driven out to sea, and has not since been heard of.
KINGSTON, (JAM.) JAN. 11.
The American sloop Mary, Titten, of Philadelphia, from Carthagena, bound to the Havana, with gunpowder, Peruvian bark, hides, &c. detained by La Decouverte schooner, Lieut. Waite; the American ship Eleanor, Bowen, from Mariel, (Cuba), bound to Boston, with sugar, &c. detained by the Stork sloop of war; and the American schooner Joseph, Conn, with coffee, from Cape-Francois for Savannah, detained by the Diana frigate.
The schooner Flying-Fish, Bailey, which failed last week for the Tarsling-Key, returned to Port-Royal on the same day, having been boarded on Thursday night by the Southward of Portland-Point by the Spanish privateer schooner El General Billabo Zenero, of 42 pounds and 86 men, who plundered her of 5 negroes, and some sails and rigging.
ging, and then permitted her to return. She also took on board Capt. Hastings, and two boys, belonging to the brig Thetis, from Quebec for this port; with fish, which she captured on the 11th inst. 20 leagues to the southward of Altavista.
A letter from Black-River, dated the 15th inst. states the Renard, sloop of war, have been off that port. That place had for some days been almost considered in a state of blockade. Such has been the audacity of the privateers, that scarcely a vessel, however insignificant, dared to peep out of a port with impunity. We have no doubt that the coast will now be cleared.
MONTGOMERY, JAN. 25.
The following vessels of the Cork fleet, for this island, have been captured by the enemy.
Robert, Derbyshire, with brigadier generals Balfour and Montefiore on board; Gallant Scherer, Gardner, carried into Guadaloupe; Cambrian, Ricards, re-taken, and arrived at Antigua.
The brig Brothers, Roe, from Savanna and Port-Morant, anchored here last Sunday.
AUCTIONS.
TO BE SOLD.
AT PUBLIC VENDUE, On Saturday, 3d of June, on the Premises. THE residue of the reserved part of the Estate of MARMEDEKE MASON, Esq. so called, for the payment of the debts of the said Marmedoke, consisting of one half of the House where the said Marmedoke last dwelt, with about three Acres of Meadow Land, E & of said House.—Conditions of sale to be made known, at time and place of sale.
WILLIAM BARTON, Executor.
Warren, February 28, 1806.
NOTICE.
NOTICE is hereby given, that agreeable to an Order of the Honourable a Supreme Judicial Court, of the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations, held at Bristol, in and for the County of Bristol, on the 2d Monday of September, A.D. 1805; will be Sold at PUBLIC VENDUE, on Tuesday the 11th day of April next, at Two o'Clock, in the afternoon of said day, on the premises, agreeable to the Statute of this State in such case made and provided:
All the real Estate that NATHANIEL PHILLIPS, jun. late of said Bristol, mariner deceased, died seized of for the payment of his just debts, and other contingent charges, (to wit) one certain lot of Land, containing about one eighth of an Acre, be the same more or less, Situate in the Compact Part of said town of Bristol:—And is bounded as follows: (to wit)—Easterly on the Main Street in said Bristol—Northerly on Land of WILLARD DIMAN—Westerly on Land of RICHARD HADLING; and Southerly on Land of Capt. SETH LINCOLN, with a large new Dwelling-House therein standing, with all the Appurtenances thereunto appertaining: Also, right of door, in said premises of the Widow of the said NATHANIEL:—Conditions of sale to be known in writing at the time of sale.
JOHN HOWLAND, Adm're.
Bristol, February 28, 1806.
Postscript.
Received by this day's Mail.
CONVENTION PROX. FOR THE YEAR 1806.
The Hon. JAMES FENNER, Esq. GOVERNOR.
The Hon. ISAAC WILBOUR, Esq. LIEUT. GOVERNOR.
1. Henry Smith, Esq. Senator.
2. Waterman Tibbets, Esq. Senator.
3. Daniel Champlin, Esq. Senator.
4. James Aldrich, Esq. Senator.
5. William Waterman, Esq. Senator.
6. John D'Wolfe, Esq. Senator.
7. Joseph Cundell, Esq. Senator.
8. Oliver Garaner, Esq. Senator.
9. Samuel Hoxie, Esq. Senator.
10. Thomas G. Pitman, Esq. Senator.
Samuel Eddy, Esq. Secretary.
James Burrill, jun. Esq. Attorney-General.
Constant Taber, Esq. General Treasurer.
Letters from Washington, mention, that the French Minister has demanded of our government that they immediately dispatch two frigates after the Leander, to bring her back, or prevent her from committing hostilities against Spain; otherwise that he shall withdraw from the United States. U.S. Gaz.
It is said, that government has ordered suits to be commenced against the individuals concerned in the expedition of the ship Leander from New-York. Relf's Gaz.
WASHINGTON, FEB. 19.
The Honorable AARON BURR, late Vice-President of the U.S. arrived at the Seat of Government on Sunday.
Col. Burr was on a tour to the South, and had arrived at Georgetown, S.C. on the 30th ult. and on the 16th instant, he is at Washington. At least this is our information. We therefore think it probable Government has selected this gentleman for the mission to Great-Britain.—N.Y. Gazette.
PROVIDENCE, MARCH 1.
SAMUEL WARD, Esq. failed yesterday morning for Bermuda, with ample proof of the property of the ship John Jay, and cargo, late carried into that island, being Americo, and belong to a mercantile house in this town.
GENIUS always sparkles, even it employed on the most ordinary subject. Shakespeare discovered a new mode to expre the true idea, two hours ago: His words are: "Since which, my watch informs me, tow'd my grave I've travelled but two hours."

APOLLO'S FOUNT.
AN ENQUIRY.
TELL me, O tell, who's that fantastic fair, Whose temples such a wreath of blossoms bear? Her fine blue eyes, so tremulous, impart Swift palpitations to a lover's heart. Between those gentle hills, obscur'd from sight, Which CUPID claims as his especial right; In that dear valley blooms the rose, and sips A double fragrance from her ruby lips, And catches all its deep vermilion grace From the contagious crimson of her face. Her robe, so green and airy, floats behind, And gaily flutters in the wanton wind. I ask'd a zephyr, hov'ring on the wing, Who this could be? he softly whisper'd—SPRING! Prov. Gaz.
Mr. MONROE'S Remonstrance.
(CONCLUDED.)
I SHALL now proceed to shew that the decisions complained of are contrary to the understanding, or what perhaps may more properly be called an agreement of the two governments on the subject. By the order of the 6th Nov. 1793, some hundreds of American vessels were seized, carried into port, and condemned. These seizures and condemnations, became the subject of an immediate negotiation between the two nations, which terminated in a treaty, by which it was agreed to submit the whole subject to commissioners, who should be invested with full powers to settle the controversy which had thus arisen. That stipulation was carried into full effect: commissioners were appointed, who examined laboriously and fully all the cases of seizure and condemnation, which had taken place, and finally decided on the same, in which decision, they condemned the principle of the order, and awarded compensation to those who had suffered under it. Those awards have since been fairly and honorably discharged by Great-Britain.—It merits particular attention, that a part of the 12th article of that treaty, referred expressly to the point in question, and that it was on the solemn deliberation of each government, by their mutual consent, expunged from it. It seems therefore to be impossible to consider that transaction, under all the circumstances attending it, in any other light, than as a fair and amicable adjustment of the question between the parties; one which authorised the just expectation, that it would never have become again a cause of complaint between them. The sense of both was expressed on it in a manner too marked and explicit to admit of a different conclusion. The subject too was of a nature that when once settled ought to be considered as settled forever. It is not like questions of commerce between two powers, which affect their internal concerns, and depend, of course, on the internal regulations of each. When these latter are arranged by treaty, the rights which accrue to each party under it, in the interior of the other, cease when the treaty expires. Each has a right afterwards to decide for itself in what manner that concern shall be regulated in future, and in that decision to consult solely its interest. But the present topic is of a very different character. It involves no question of commerce or other internal concern between the two nations. It respects the commerce only, which either may have with the enemies of the other in time of war. It involves, therefore, only a question of right, under the law of nations, which in its nature cannot fluctuate. It is proper to add, that the conclusion above mentioned, was further supported, by the important fact, that until the late decree in the case of the Essex, not one American vessel, engaged in this commerce, had been condemned on this doctrine; that several which were met in the channel, by the British cruisers, were permitted, after an examination of their papers, to pursue their voyage. This circumstance justified the opinion, that that commerce was deemed a lawful one by Great-Britain.
There is another ground, on which the late seizures and condemnations are considered as highly objectionable, and to furnish just cause of complaint
to the United States. Until the final report of the commissioners under the 7th article of the treaty of 1794, which was not made until last year, it is admitted that their arbitrament was not obligatory on the parties, in the sense in which it is now contended to be. Every immediate declaration, however, by Great-Britain, of her sense on the subject, must be considered as binding on her, as it laid the foundation of commercial enterprizes, which were thought to be secure while within that limit. Your lordship will permit me to refer you several examples of this kind, which were equally formal and official, in which the sense of his Majesty's government was declared very differently from what it has been in the late condemnations. In Robinson's reports, vol. 2, page 368, (case the Polly, Lasky, master) it seems to have been clearly established by the learned Judge of the Court of Admiralty, that an American has a right to import the produce of an enemy's colony into the United States, and to send it on afterwards to the general commerce of Europe; and that the landing the goods, and paying the duties in the United States should preclude all further question relative to the voyage. The terms "for his own use," which are to be found in the report, are obviously intended to affect the claim only that the property shall be American, and not that of an enemy; by admitting the right to send on the produce afterwards to the general commerce of Europe, it is not possible that those terms should convey any other idea. A bona fide importation is also held by the Judge to be satisfied by landing the goods and paying the duties. This therefore is, I think, the true import of that decision. The doctrine is again laid down in still more explicit terms by the Government itself, in a correspondence between Lord Hawkesbury and my predecessor, Mr. King.—The case was precisely similar to those which have been lately before the Court. Mr. King complained in a letter of March 18, 1801, that the cargo of an American vessel going from the United States to a Spanish colony, had been condemned by a Vice Admiralty Court of Nassau, on the ground that it was of the growth of Spain, which decision he contended was contrary to the law of nations, and requested that suitable instructions might be dispatched to the proper officers in the West-Indies, to prevent like abuses in future. Lord Hawkesbury in reply of April 11th, communicated the report of the King's Advocate General, in which it is expressly stated, that the produce of an enemy may be imported by a neutral into his own country, and re-exported thence to the mother country; and in like manner, in that circuitous mode, that the produce and manufactures of the mother country might find their way to its colonies; that the landing the goods, and paying the duties in the neutral country, broke the continuity of the voyage, and legalized the trade, although the goods were re-shipped in the same vessel, on account of the same neutral proprietors, and forwarded for sale to the mother country of the colony. It merits attention in this report, (so clearly and positively is the doctrine laid down, that the landing the goods and paying the duties in the neutral country broke the continuity of the voyage) that it is stated as a doubtful point whether the mere touching in the neutral country to obtain fresh clearances will be considered in the light of the direct trade; that no positive inhibition is insisted on any but the direct trade between the mother country and the colonies. This doctrine in the light herein stated, is also to be found in the treaty between Great-Britain & Russia, June 17, 1801. By the 2d section of the 3d article, the commerce of neutrals in the productions or manufactures of the enemies of Great-Britain, which have become the property of the neutral, is declared to be free; that section was afterwards explained by a declaratory article of October 20, of the same year, by which it is agreed, that it shall not be under-
stood to authorise neutrals to carry the produce or merchandise of an enemy either directly from the colonies to the parent country, or from the parent country to the colonies. In other respects, the commerce was left on the footing on which it was placed by that section, perfectly free, except in the direct trade between the colony and the parent country. It is worthy of remark, that, as by the reference made in the explanatory article of the treaty with Russia, to the United States of America, it was supposed that those States and Russia, Denmark and Sweden, had a common interest in neutral questions, so it was obviously intended, from the similarity of sentiment which is observable between that treaty as amended, and the report of the Advocate General, above mentioned, to place all the parties on the same footing.—After these acts of the British Government, which being official, were made public, it was not to be expected that any greater restraint would have ever been contemplated by it, on that commerce, than they impose, that an inquiry would have been made, nor whether the property with which an American vessel was charged belonged to a citizen of the United States, or an enemy, but whether it belonged to this or that belonged to this or that American;—an inquiry which imposes a condition which it is believed that no independent nation, having a just sense of what it owes to its rights or its honor, can ever comply with it. Much less was it to be expected that such a restraint would have been thought of after the report of the commissioners above averted to, which seemed to have placed the rights of the United States incontestibly on a much more liberal, and, as is contended, just footing.
It is proper to add, that the decree of the lords commissioners, of appeals in the case of the Essex, produced the same effect as an order from the Government would have done. Prior to that decree, from the commencement of the war, the commerce in question was pursued by the citizens of the United States, as has been already observed, without molestation. It is presumable that till then his Majesty's cruisers were induced to forbear a seizure, by the same consideration which induced the American citizens to engage in the commerce, a belief that it was a lawful one. The facts above mentioned, were equally before the parties, and it is not surprising that they should have drawn the same conclusion from them. That decree, however, opened a new scene. It certainly gave a signal to the cruisers to commence the seizures which they have not failed to do, as has been sufficiently felt by the citizens of the United States, who have suffered under it. According to the information which has been given me, about fifty vessels have been brought into the ports of Great-Britain, in consequence of it, and there is reason to believe that the same system is pursued in the West-Indies, and elsewhere. The measure is the more to be complained of, because Great-Britain had, by permitting the commerce for two years, given a sanction to it by her conduct, and nothing had occurred to create a suspicion that her sentiments varied from her conduct. Had that been the case, or had she been disposed to change her conduct in that respect towards the United States, it might reasonably have been expected that some intimation would have been given of it before the measure was carried into effect. Between powers who are equally desirous of preserving the relations of friendship with each other, notice might in all such cases be expected. But in the present case the obligations to give it seemed to be peculiarly strong. The existence of a negotiation which had been sought on the part of the United States some considerable time before my departure for Spain, for the express purpose of adjusting amicably and fairly, all such questions between the two nations, and postponed on that occasion to accommodate the views of his Majesty's Govern-
ment, furnished a suitable opportunity for such an intimation, while it could not otherwise than increase the claim to it.
In this communication I have made no comment on the difference which is observable in the import of the several orders which have regulated, at different times, the seizure of neutral vessels, some of which were more moderate than others. It is proper, however, to remark here, that those which were issued, or even that any had been issued since the commencement of the present war, were circumstances not known till very lately:—On principle it is acknowledged that they are to be viewed in the same light, and it has been my object to examine them by that standard, without going into detail, or making the shades of difference between them. I have made the examination with that freedom and candor which belong to a subject of very high importance to the United States, the result of which has been, as I presume, to prove, that all the orders are repugnant to the law of nations, and that the late condemnations which have revived the pretensions on the part of Great-Britain, are not only repugnant to that law, but to the understanding which it was supposed had taken place between the two powers, respecting the commerce in question.
I cannot conclude this note without adverting to the other topics depending between our Governments which it is also much wished to adjust at this time. These are well known to your lordship, and it is therefore unnecessary to add any thing on them at present. With a view to perpetuate the friendship of the two nations, no unnecessary cause of collision should be left open.—Those reverted to, are believed to be of this kind, such as the case of boundary, the impressment of seamen, &c. Since it is presumed there can be no real conflicting interest between them on those points. The general commercial relation may then be adjusted or postponed as may be most consistent with the views of his Majesty's government. On that point also it is believed that it will not be difficult to make such an arrangement as, by giving sufficient scope to the resources, to the industry and the enterprise of the people of both countries, may prove highly and reciprocally advantageous to them. In the topic of impressment, however, the motive is more urgent. In that line the rights of the United States have been so long trampled under foot, and the feelings of humanity, in respect to the sufferers, and the honor of their government, even in their own ports, so often outraged, that the astonished world may begin to doubt, whether the patience with which these injuries have been borne ought to be attributed to generous or unworthy motives: Whether the United States merit the rank to which in other respects they are justly entitled among independent powers, or have already, in the very morn of their political career, lost their energy, and become degenerate. The United States are not insensible that their conduct has exposed them to such suspicions, though they well know that they have not merited them. They are aware, from the similarity in the person, in the manners, and above all, the identity of the language, which is common to the people of both nations, that the subject is a difficult one; they are equally aware, that to Great-Britain also, it is a delicate one, and they have been willing in seeking an arrangement of this important interest, to give a proof by the mode, of their very sincere desire to cherish the relations of friendship with her. I have only to add, that I shall be happy to meet your lordship on these points, as soon as you can make it convenient to you. I have the honor to be, with high consideration, your lordship's most obedient servant.
(Signed)
JAMES MONROE.
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