Rhode-Island Republican (Newport, R.I.), 1803-05-07 00:00:00

cases of those in humbler circumstances. They have falsely and artfully represented, that the republicans, whom they usually stigmatize as poor, have directed their attention to persons of fortune, to the exclusion of the humble and dependent. With some who are uninformed they have been too successful, while the friends of the government, confiding in its integrity, and the wisdom and utility of its measures, have neglected to communicate a correct statement of facts. The public mind is correct; it will pronounce an impartial and just judgment when rightly informed; it demands a knowledge of the cause; its claim shall be complied with.
It has been represented that the taxes upon pleasurable carriages, and refined sugars have been repealed. This is true so far as respects the excise; but false as it relates to the import.
Whenever a coach, chaise, phaeton or other carriage is imported, a tax is levied upon it equal to one fifth of its value, that is to say, upon a coach worth 600 dollars, a tax of one hundred and twenty, upon a phaeton worth 300 dollars, a tax of sixty, and upon a chaise worth 200 dollars, a tax of forty is levied. Parts of carriages are taxed in the same proportion. When a coach or other carriage is built in the United States, every material used in its completion, which comes from a foreign country, is taxed. Nothing is exempted but the labor of our own mechanics. The timber from our farms, the iron from our manufactories, and such other articles as are procured by the ingenuity and labor of our citizens. Thus for the broad-cloth a tax is paid equal to one eighth of its value, & for the carpeting, leather, paints, taffels, laces, fringes and other trimmings, fifteen cents for the value of one dollar. So when a citizen purchases a hundred pounds of foreign loaf sugar, he pays a tax of nine dollars; when he purchases a hundred pounds of brown sugar, the tax he pays is only two and a half dollars. To produce a hundred pounds of loaf sugar, requires two hundred and sixteen pounds of brown sugar; the difference in weight is lost by the process of clarifying. This two hundred & sixteen pounds of brown sugar is purchased by the manufacturer, and he pays for it a tax of five dollars and forty cents; of him the consumer purchases it, and pays the first cost, the tax, and the expense of refining. This consumer, therefore, supports an useful manufacture of our own, and pays as much for each pound of sugar he uses, as he who consumes brown sugar pays for two pounds and one eighth.
Now it is a fact, which will not be controverted, that adding the excise upon the carriage, to the duties levied upon the most expensive articles of which it is made, increases the expense to such a degree, as to lessen essentially the number of purchasers. So adding to the tax upon brown sugar, the excise upon that which is clarified by our own citizens reduces materially the number of consumers. The excise, therefore, operated directly to the injury of the sugar boilers, the carriage builders and all persons by them employed, either in furnishing or manufacturing the materials of our own country, or in preparing those of other countries for the use designed.
Nor ought we to compute that the revenue of government is lessened to the amount derived from the excise on those articles. Because the importation of the articles necessary for the mechanics, and manufacturers, always will be in proportion to the demand for them, or, in other words, to the quantum used; and the revenue by import is in proportion to the importation. Therefore to ascertain what reduction of the revenue will in reality take place from the repeal of these excises, it is necessary to deduct from the gross amount of revenue derived from them, the decreased amount of import upon the articles of which they are made. The balance, if any thing, constitutes the true reduction of revenue. The excise has not been removed sufficient time to enable any person to make this estimation. But I do not hesitate to say that, in a little time, the increased demand for, and consumption of these articles, will produce an increase of import equal to the reduction of revenue, which actually took place by abolishing the excise. Here let me ask, why should laws be so construed as to injure the interests of these mechanics and manufacturers, and to check their laudable enterprise and industry, any more than they should be, to check the industry of the cabinet-maker, the gold-smith, the silver-smith, the watch-maker, the engraver and all the artists in the useful and elegant arts of life? Why should the labors of one man be taxed, and the labors of all others remain free? Is not the farmer willing that his son, who devotes his life to manufactures, or the mechanic arts, should have an equal chance for happiness with that son, who devotes himself to agriculture? Are not the other mechanics, and other manufacturers willing that the sugar boilers and carriage builders should stand on equal ground with themselves? All must pay for the support of government.
While the nation relies on import for her revenues, the tax is laid directly on the labors and products of other countries, and indirectly on our own citizens, the consumer of the richest and most valuable articles pay the highest tax, the consumer of the plainest and cheapest, the least. For instance, he, who consumes the richest teas, pays as great a tax for a single pound, as he, who consumes common tea, pays for three pounds and a third. Each man pays only in proportion to what he consumes; but the farmer pays least of all, because he lives most within himself.
The government by repealing the internal taxes has given equal play to the genius, enterprise and activity of all. It has removed the shackles which retarded the operations of industry. An excise system is to the body politic, what the consumption is to the natural body. It deals upon the frame. It operates imperceptibly. It deceives the patient from time to time, with the appearance of returning health, but it gradually undermines the system and ends in dissolution. Thus the nation perishes, while the officers, bloated and swelled by sloping on
her property expire of a dropsey. The humble and distressed condition of the common people of Europe, furnishes proof of the truth of this assertion too impressive and irresistible ever to be forgotten by the citizens of this country.
It has been suggested that these articles are chiefly used by the wealthy, and are therefore more proper objects of taxation. But when the excise was removed from other articles, to have retained it on these would have required a continuance of the whole host of excisemen at an expense, nearly if not fully equal to the whole revenue. Nor is it believed that, when the reduction of import, naturally derivable from the excise, is added to the expense of that system, there would arise a cent of clear revenue.
In some States it is admitted Congress might collect an excise upon those articles at a moderate expense. I refer to those States, which, like Massachusetts and Connecticut, are replete with population & possess a proportionate number of carriages. In the other States it is far different. In Massachusetts there is one carriage to every 1107 acres of land; in Pennsylvania there is but one to every 15,917, and in Virginia to every 16,212; so that the travel and expense of the collector in going for the tax, or of the citizen in going to pay it, in Virginia and Pennsylvania, is fourteen times as much as it is in Massachusetts. In Connecticut there is one carriage to every 1,743 acres, while in North Carolina there is only one to every 11,329. The real expense therefore of collecting that tax, is six times as great in North Carolina as in Connecticut. The evil in the western country and south of the Potomac, is increased by the scarcity of bank notes. The expense of the actual travel must be incurred; the facilities of the public mails cannot be substituted. Neither does it result from this that necessary produces any inequality or injustice in the articles taxed, or in the mode of taxing them. In most countries an inequality might necessarily exist; happily for the people of these States it is not their code.
As it relates to all internal objects of taxation, each State within its limits possesses a right extensive and concurrent with the United States. Nothing therefore is easier than for a State to correct any inequality, which may result from the taxes of the Union. Should Congress levy a tax on any article, the State, whose citizens feel the pressure of the tax, will relieve the article from State taxes. Does Congress repeal her taxes, and surrender to the States all the sources of internal taxation, it enables the States to lessen the burdens of their present systems, by drawing a revenue from these restored resources. Either of the States may levy a tax on carriages, domestic distilled spirits and refined sugars, and it is to be presumed that the Legislature will whenever the interest of the State requires it. These articles therefore are not exempted from taxation; they are yielded up to the discretion of the State Legislatures. Is it not astonishing that States should complain of a surrender of revenue to their use? Ought they not to rejoice that the general government has furnished them with the means of removing from the poor the poll or capitation tax? And cannot the equalization of taxes be better effected by the acts of the State governments, who legislate for small sections and can adapt their laws to the condition of their citizens, than by the laws of Congress, which must operate by one rule over all the people of this union, however dissimilar and unlike their conditions.
We are told that the annual appropriation of seven millions three hundred thousand dollars, towards the discharge of the principal and interest of the national debt, was deceptive, and calculated to inspire hopes, which would never be realized. Experience has demonstrated that the government, notwithstanding it has repealed the internal taxes, has been enabled, in the past year, to discharge of national debt, eight millions forty five thousand eight hundred and seven dollars ; while not a cent has been borrowed or re-loaned, nor a tax of any kind created. The Treasury too, so far from being exhausted, on the first of January, 1803, was possessed of, five millions twenty thousand two hundred and thirty dollars and sixty two cents , a thing altogether unprecedented. The reduction of the public debt by means of the bank shares is included in this estimate.
We are now told that no credit is due to the government, because the monies have been derived from the imports, which were established by former administrations. What! Is there no credit due to a government that administers the finances of a nation with economy, frugality and sound discretion? Because I have furnished my agent with a capital necessary for my use, is he not entitled to my confidence for the integrity, prudence and judgment he has displayed in the management of my affairs? Does not the man justly challenge a higher claim to that confidence, who faithfully applies the monies I have entrusted to him, than the one who devotes the most methods of drawing my money from my pocket? Or is he exclusively entitled to it, who has devised the means of taking from me the fruits of my own industry?
It is true that those alone are fit to be entrusted with the government, who unite to prudence and discretion in expenditure, that knowledge of the country and its interests, which may enable them, if necessity require, to augment her revenues by additional taxes, least injurious to the people, and most congenial with their genius, condition and feelings. It is equally true that the present government has not created any taxes. But it is not true that the opposition deserve any more credit for the creation of the revenue system, than belongs to the persons in office. That system was contemplated by the old Congress under the confederation; they repeatedly solicited the States to vest them with power to levy an import. The refusal of those States principally interested in importations, in a great measure produced the necessity for a convention. The convention calculated upon the imports to support the government they recommended to the people. The rights of general
taxation were given that the powers of the government might be equal to every exigency. When the federal government went into operation, the present system of import was adopted by general consent; many of the officers of the government and friends of the administration, were eminently useful in its establishment.
Indeed one principal objection against the late order of things was, that the late administration would not rely upon import alone for revenue, but insisted upon establishing the stamp tax, and a general system of internal taxation, oppressive to the interior, expensive in the extreme, and productive of daily embarrassments. Of those who possess a knowledge of public affairs, who is there that can deny these facts? From what source then does the opposition derive its pretensions?
Among various other objections which have been offered against the reduction of taxes, it has been said the people were naturally averse to taxation, and with difficulty brought to submit to new contributions. That these systems were in operation, the people had become accustomed to them; and it was most wise and prudent to retain them; because they might be wanted at some future day. This objection amounts to this: "You must tax the people when you do not want their money, to be able to tax them when you do want it."
In countries where the iron hand of despotism rules, where the interests of the sovereign are distinct from, and opposed to, the interests of the subject, where fear bind him to his master, it is undoubtedly necessary to keep fast the chains by which he is bound. How dissimilar is our case! If the revenues are wisely and judiciously expended, the exigencies of the state are the exigencies of the state themselves. The government is theirs—Is object, their happiness—They mould and fashion it to their own liking, and there is no one to say, "why do ye so." Can it be possible that a people so circumstanced will refuse those contributions, which their own security and happiness demand!
Here again let us test this objection by experience. In the war of 1777 the people of these States contributed with liberality to its support. They have struggled through and supported an arduous war of eight years, with an unanimity unparalleled in the history of nations.
They have submitted quietly to the existing taxes, and to all those which have been repealed, with the solitary exception of the discontent which has been manifested by three or four counties in Pennsylvania. A part of these discontented, probably, would have been easily allayed, had not the then Secretary of the Treasury believed them calculated to further his views. I boldly challenge the enemies of the government to produce from the annals of the world a people, who have more uniformly yielded a ready obedience to law, or more cheerfully contributed to the necessities of state. Yet in every instance when the governments no longer wanted the taxes, the people were relieved from them. For my own part I acknowledge I feel indignant when I reflect upon the objection I have combated. I pledge myself voluntarily to contribute my proportion of whatever the necessities of government may require, and I enter my solemn protest against being taxed unnecessarily, for the purpose of drilling me.
A former Secretary of the treasury, and many of his adherents, have advocated a principle, which, if correct, certainly proves the internal taxes ought not to have been repealed. It is this: "That the people ought to be taxed as far as they can pay." I dissent from this principle; it will produce a despotism. To that species of government it is essentially necessary; for an independent yeomanry will never be slaves. While the soil is owned and cultivated by the same persons, liberty is safe. But once oppress the people with a system of taxation, which shall bring the class of moderate planters and farmers in arrear, although the deficit may be small, till, eventually, it will produce the effect. A consumption will prey upon the vitals of the republic. The nation will become a body of landlords and tenants; one class rich, the other poor and dependent: Or in other words, one will become masters, and the other slaves.
To give health to the natural body, the blood must flow with regularity, and in due proportion to all its parts; so, to give vigor & vital energy to the body politic, the attention of government must be directed to all. The interests of all must be considered. While the rich are protected, the interests of the common citizens should be carefully guarded, and tenderly watched over. That inequality which the nature of things is constantly producing, should be checked in its progress: Of consequence government should levy as few taxes as possible; because in whatever mode they are levied, the body of the people must pay the greater proportion of them, and they are not wealthy. The constant pressure of taxes will depress them. Look to the nations who have gone before us.
I have read of the paupers of England amounting to one seventh of her numbers, and supported by an annual tax of nearly fourteen millions of dollars, a sum far exceeding the whole revenue of the United States; of the poverty of the people of Scotland and Ireland, of their wretched support, their thatched roofs and cottages. I have read of the vassals of Russia and Poland; of the beggars of Portugal, and her degraded peasantry, kneeling to the contemptible Fidalgo, and of the Lazaroni of Naples, who dwell in the caverns of the earth. I have read of the people of France driven to madness by the pressure of public burthens, and presenting an awful lesson to rulers, of husbands prostituting their wives, and fathers their daughters, to procure the necessaries of life. And, as I read, the tear of pity stole from my eye. I have frequently read of dissensions, rebellions and civil wars which originated in oppression, and the miseries of the people. May Heaven preserve us from such calamities! But I never have read of a nation, who were ruined by enjoying the fruits of their industry. I have never heard of a people who rebelled because they were not taxed.
ed. To the opposition is due the credit of discovering, that the government had justly forfeited its claims to the confidence of the people by permitting them to apply their own monies to their own use.
From the PROVIDENCE PHOENIX.
THE following publication, copied from Mr. Wheeler's Chronicle of Thursday last, unfolds to the world the despicable plans which Federalists are capable of attempting to ruin the characters of Republicans. They stick at nothing, by which they may accomplish their plans, if we may judge from the vile means they use. A more daring, impudent, and insulting publication has seldom been given to the world, than the following. It needs only to be read to excite the indignation and contempt of all people of common decency. If any thing can justify the seeking of redress by club law, certainly this must. If the publication is the act of party ( as no doubt it is ) what shall we think of them? Are they determined to excite civil war, by striking a death-blow at the very vitals of society? Every man has his connexions and friends; they must have passions; and a publication of the slanderous, scurrilous, and malicious kind of the following, must arouse all the unruly passions, and give bitterness to every feeling. Such a disturbance of the passions enkindles every warlike flame, and gives a death-blow to social intercourse. Certainly then people of wisdom and prudence ought to step forward and put a stop to the publication of pieces of such an evil tendency as the following.—Have the Federalists men of prudence among them, and do they justify such publications? Yes, they even aid and assist in procuring their publication. Even the first magistrates of states and the nation, are to be insulted "in the most indecorous piracies of contumelious slander," to appease the wrath of a disappointed faction—Whatever provocations are given, it remains for an insulted people to keep themselves cool, and prevent the evil consequences which such publications are calculated to produce. Let them be firm in the cause of liberty and the rights of man, and treat with contempt the publications of vile slanderers. Let the people of Rhode-Island remember that Mels is JOHN BROWN, JABEZ BOWEN, GEORGE GIBBS, GEORGE CHAMPLIN, and many other Leaders of the federal party, before Gov. Fenner was first elected to the office of GOVERNOR, signed and sent him a flattering address, wherein they besought him to come forward as a candidate for that office—he then in their opinion being the most proper person to do away all party, and restore harmony to the state—and those people then pledged themselves to give Governor Fenner their most energetic support.—Freemen, if Gov. Fenner is such a character, as is represented in the following publication, what are you to think of those men who sent him the address? What are you to think of the party who use every art to destroy his character? Does not this conduct evince to you that something is wrong? Read the following and blush for the depravity of man.
FEDERAL MODESTY & INVENTION.
A new mode of slander
Copied from Wheeler's Chronicle.
PROPOSALS
For publishing by Subscription, the Life of Arthur Fenner, Esq. GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF RHODE-ISLAND & PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS.
PLAN of the WORK.
HIS character—religious, political, moral and social, illustrated from matters of fact.
His religious sentiments, shown chiefly from declarations & observations from his own mouth.
His civil and military achievements will be displayed, by a full and particular history of his conduct, both in the cabinet and in the field, from the year 1774, to the date of the publication.
His moral character will be exhibited as well by evidences of the general habits of his life, as by particular memoirs, anecdotes and incidents, from the earliest period of his life to the present time.

His birth, pedigree, and many curious circumstances relative to his rank and fortune will be disclosed; particularly the manner and means of his acquiring wealth, and the steps whereby he ascended to the office he now holds.
The history will contain the principal transactions of the Legislature of Rhode-Island, from the year 1785, to the present date.
Every material fact advanced in the history will be supported by the testimony either of private affidavits, or authentic copies of public records, regularly arranged in an appendix at the close of the book.
Certainty in matters of fact will be scrupulously ascertained; and even from such facts, no inferences, criminal or ridiculous, will be ventured, but such as are natural and irresistible.
Scenes of infamous lewdness, when necessarily disclosed, will be presented in language as inoffensive to delicacy as possible.
In order that the history may be complete as well as authentic, the utmost diligence will be exerted by the authors in obtaining evidence in the premises, and any information to that purpose, will be thankfully received.
CONDITIONS TO SUBSCRIBERS. The Book will contain upwards of 500 pages, small Octavo, printed on fine paper, with a new and handsome type, and neatly bound and lettered.
The price to subscribers will be two dollars and twenty-five cents, and those who subscribe, or procure subscription for ten copies, and be accountable for the pay, shall be entitled to an eleventh gratis. No money will be required till the delivery of the books.
Those Gentlemen who may hold subscription papers, especially in distant parts of the United States are requested to return them to the Office of the United States Chronicle, in Providence by the first day of September next, when the work will proceed immediately to press, if a sufficient subscription shall have been obtained to defray the expenses.
To the PUBLIC. NO views to private emolument have induced the undertaking of the present history. Its object has been wholly the interest of the citizens of the State, as well as the world at large. In the neighboring States, it has long been a theme of reproach to the people of Rhode-Island, that they have suffered themselves to be governed in the manner they have; and no analogy has hitherto been advanced in their favor. Mere analogy however, is not the only design in view. The life and character of a profligate, daring and successful demagogue, afford an interesting and instructive lesson to mankind; and if attentively contemplated, may be highly useful to posterity.
For those who have been the unfortunate dupes of iniquitous deception, it is highly important to remove the veil of hypocritical sanctity that covers the most detestable of crimes, and the basest of arts, in those by whom they have been deceived: To point out the steps by which the impostor has climbed to power: To drag the political felon before the dread tribunal of public scrutiny, there, stripped of his disguise, in his own naked deformity, to receive the scourge of general detestation.
However degrading to the human character; however offensive to religion, morality, or decency, the intended history may appear, it will be no less authentic than odious and disgusting. By whatever deformity the picture may be dishonored, it will be a true copy from the original; Natural abhorrence of political intrigue and imposture, of moral and religious hypocrisy, will probably do justice to the piece; but no malice or private resentment shall blacken its colours beyond their due stain.
A generous subscription is solicited and expected to the work, and no exertions will be omitted to render the work worthy of the public patronage.
Subscription papers will immediately issue from this office.
Providence, April 28th, 1803.
Now, Freemen, you need only read the foregoing to despise Federal vileness.—It is a true description of federal declamation, federal flander, federal lies, and federal FORGERIES.—In a word, it is a genuine picture of TORY FEDERALISM!!
[Further Comments hereafter.]
LAWS OF THE UNION. [PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY.]
SEVENTH CONGRESS of the UNITED STATES, at their second session, Begun and held at the City of Washington, in the Territory of Columbia, on Monday, the 6th of December, 1802.
AN ACT Supplementary to the Act intitled "An Act providing passports for the ships and vessels of the United States."
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That every unregistered ship or vessel owned by a citizen or citizens of the United States, and sailing with a sea letter, going to any foreign country, shall, before the departure from the United States, at the request of the master, be furnished by the collector of the district where such vessel may be, with a passport of the form prescribed and established by the act to which this is a supplement, for which the master shall pay to the collector ten dollars, and be subject to the rules and conditions prescribed in the said act, for ships and vessels of the United States.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That there shall be paid on every such unregistered ship or vessel, sailing or trading to any foreign country,
other than some port or place in America, for each and every voyage, the same sum at the time of clearing outwards, to be received and accounted for in the same manner as is by said act required in cases of ships and vessels of the United States.
NATHANIEL MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. A. BURR, Vice-President of the United States and President of the Senate. APPROVED, March 2, 1803. TH: JEFFERSON, President of the United States.
AN ACT For erecting a Light House at the entrance of Penobscot bay, or any other place in its vicinity, that may be deemed preferable by the Secretary of the Treasury.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That as soon as a cession shall be made by the State of Massachusetts to the United States, of the jurisdiction over the land proper for the purpose, the Secretary of the Treasury be and he is hereby authorized to purchase so much land as may be necessary, and provide by contract, to be approved by the President of the United States, for building a light house on Whitehead, at the entrance of Penobscot Bay, or any place in its vicinity, that may be deemed preferable by the Secretary of the Treasury and to furnish the same with all necessary supplies; and also, to agree for the salaries or wages of the persons who may be appointed by the President for the superintendence and care of the same; and that the President be authorized to make the said appointments.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That there be appropriated and paid out of the monies arising from imports and tonnage, the sum of seven thousand dollars for the purpose of erecting the Light House as aforesaid.
NATHANIEL MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. STEPHEN R. BRADLEY, President of the Senate pro tempore. APPROVED, March 3d, 1803. TH: JEFFERSON, President of the United States.
Latest Foreign Articles.
LONDON, March 19.
At a late interview with Bonaparte, as described in a private letter from Paris, he conducted himself in a very insolent and domineering manner to the British Ambassador. For the scene of this action, the drawing-room of Madame Bonaparte was preferred. After an expostulation on the subject of the armament in Britain, which expostulation, according to accounts, might have been heard by most of the company, he is said to have addressed Lord Whitworth:
"IF YOU WILL HAVE WAR, MY LORD, YOU SHALL HAVE FIFTEEN YEARS OF IT."
The following is an extract from the Sun of last night:
At Madame Bonaparte's drawing room on Sunday last, the first consul appeared in a state of evident irritability. When he approached the English ambassador, he observed with warmth, that a war had now desolated Europe for fifteen years, and asked whether it was now to be renewed? adding, that if it was, it might again last for as long a period. To which Lord Whitworth calmly replied, that if it was renewed, it would not be the fault of Great Britain. Bonaparte then went among the ladies, and soon after returned to Lord Whitworth, and vehemently declared, that the armaments now preparing in the ports of France, were destined only for the colonies, in the preservation of which England was as much interested as he could be. To this no answer was made. He soon after quitted the room, calling on God and man to witness, that he hoped vengeance would be inflicted on the power which, by a violation of treaty, should cause the renewal of hostilities. All accounts agree that his countenance was, throughout, almost disfigured by passion; and his tone was so loud and vehement, that at least half the company present must have heard all that passed on this extraordinary occasion.
The following is extracted from the Traveller of the 19th.—The conversation reported to have passed at Madame Bonaparte's drawing room, between the First Consul and Lord Whitworth, is, at least, in its principal topics, confirmed beyond a doubt. Letters from persons of unquestionable authority coincide in representing the language which took place on that occasion very nearly the same as we inserted yesterday. Bonaparte's countenance, gestures, and voice, were expressive of the most furious passion. He invoked the vengeance of God on that power which should be the cause of the war; and in retiring from the chamber, the servant could only open
one half the double door, when the chief Consul burst through, and hurried out in the greatest rage.
PHILADELPHIA, April 26. Extract of a letter, dated WASHINGTON, APRIL 22, 1803.
"You have no doubt received a copy of the letter from the Spanish minister to the secretary of state of the U. S. communicating the pleasing intelligence of the port of New Orleans, having been ordered to be opened as heretofore, and to continue open until arrangements be made between the two governments to establish an equivalent place of deposit. In the hurry at the office of state occasioned by the making up dispatches for the Natchez, &c. the communication of a very important fact was not then made in order to publication; Therefore now relate it to you. The king of Spain, in the true spirit of Castilian honor, issued his order to the intendant at New Orleans under his sign manual, commanding that officer immediately and directly to reinstate the United States in all their rights by treaty, as held and exercised previous to the last unauthorised interruption; which mandate from the king himself, without the intervention of any of his ministers, his representative here was directed to, and did accordingly, communicate and shew to the president of the U. S. and has since forwarded it by express to the intendant and governor at New Orleans.
"This information is derived from a conversation with the President himself."
BOSTON, April 29.
By the brig Sallay, Capt. Ingersoll, 30 days from Bourdeaux, papers and letters have been received from that city to March 27.—Capt. I. informs, though various reports, pro and con, had prevailed, yet the latest was unfavourable to the continuance of peace.—An armistice of French seamen took place the evening before he failed. Some of the letters mention, that the expectation of war had enhanced the price of coffee and sugar. The American Minister at Paris had been assured by the French Government, that if a war commenced, the peace of the United States would not be disturbed, by France. Since the late change in the aspect of affairs, the Minister has been treated with more respect and attention by the Gallic rulers. The following note was sent to Capt. I. on the evening of the 27th of March:
"Dear Sir.—By the mail arrived this day, at 6 o'clock, P. M. it appears, that hostile preparations in England continue with great activity; and though there were reports yesterday that all differences were settled between the two governments, the aspect of affairs is at this moment very alarming to the friends of peace. The stocks at Paris fell in one day 8 per cent. and the prevailing opinion there was, that there would be a war. Letters from London are also in the same stile. Yours, G. T. Bourdeaux, March 27."
NEWPORT, Saturday, May 7, 1803.
Yesterday, at noon, the Honorable General Assembly of this State adjourned to the last Monday of the present month, then to convene again at the State-House in this town.
Appointments, &c. in our next.
We this day commence the publication of a series of pieces under the signature of ALGERNON SIDNEY, comprising a vindication of the measures of the present administration, to which we invite the attention of the American people. They will therein find truth told with great simplicity, argument supported by facts, principles which Sidney died to defend, and Franklin, Washington and Jefferson, lived to establish. N. Intel.
Boston, April 28. Late and very INTERESTING!
Last evening letters were received from Portsmouth, dated yesterday, announcing the arrival there of the ship Volunteer, Capt. Bolsworth, in 35 days from Liverpool; who brings advices, that on the 23d of March, in the river, he was boarded by a Lieutenant of a Man of War, who informed him, the DECLARATION OF WAR against France had that day been received in Liverpool from the Admiralty [Head-Quarters.] The information perfectly accords with the note received by Capt. Ingersoll, on the eve of his departure from Bourdeaux.
CUSTOM-HOUSE. District of Newport, May 6. ENTERED, From   Brig Sally, Bennet, Havana  Sloop Argus, Crane, N. Carolina  Sloop Hiram, Borden, Richmond  Sloop Polly, Luther, Charleston  Ship Mount Hope, Boit, Isl. de France. 
Joseph W. Paul & Co.
HAVE just received a quantity best Havana white and brown SUGARS, to be sold by the Box. May 7.
Barzillai Walker
RESPECTFULLY informs the citizens of this town, that he has opened a SCHOOL in the dwelling-house of Mr. Jonathan Walker, in the street formerly called Pope's Lane, at the South extremity of the town. Persons disposed to place children under his care, may rely on their receiving the strictest attention. Price for instruction:—Spelling and reading, 1 dollar 50 Cents:—Reading and writing, 2 dollars:—Reading, writing, and arithmetic, 2 dollars 50 cents per quarter.
Also, a number of young Ladies and Misses who wish to be instructed in the above branches, may be accommodated with a room separate from the common School.—Five or six have already commenced.
Newport, May 7, 1803.
WHEREAS divers unhappy differences exist between me and my wife CATHERINE—and those differences are daily increased by her friendly advisers:—I do therefore hereby forbid any person or persons trusting her on my account, as I am determined not to pay any debt of her contracting after this date. ELEAZER TREVETT. Newport, May 7, 1803.
LOST,
ON Wednesday last, in or near the State-House in Newport, a red Morocco Pocket Book, containing a considerable sum of money, in bank Bills; with several Notes of hand, &c. of no use to any person except the subscriber. Whoever will return the same to him, or to the printer of the Rhode-Island Republican, shall be generously rewarded therefor. ELISHA WATSON. South-Kingstown, May 5, 1803.
For New-York & Albany,
THE elegant, new, last sailing Sloop SALLY-ANN, Edward Church master, having excellent accommodations, will sail on or by the 10th inst.—For Freight or Passage apply to the master on board at Bristol, or SIMON DAVIS, Newport.
FOR SALE,
THE fast sailing brig FAVORITE, now lying at Hardy's wharf, only four years old, built of the best of materials, and of the following dimensions, say, 58 feet keel, 18 feet beam, and 8 feet hold; was built for a Packet.—For terms, and particulars, apply to EARL & WHITEHORNE. Newport, May 6, 1803. 135
The undersigned Commissary-General, and Charge des Affaires of the French Republic, hereby gives notice to all whom it may concern, THAT in consequence of a late law, and by a decree of the Consuls of the Republic, bearing date of the 27th of October last, a general pardon and amnestie are granted to all deserters from the navy, and from the public arsenals, of whatever grade; as also to all registered workmen and seamen: Provided they return to France within a fixed period of time.
In pursuance of the above decree, and of orders from the Minister of the marine and colonies, the undersigned hereby informs all persons of this description, who may be in the United States, that until the 27th of October next, they may present themselves before the several commissaries of France, in the said States, who are authorised to provide for their return home, and give them passports for their unopposed admission into France.—Such persons as take the benefit of the amnesty, are not only exempt from prosecution on account of their desertion, but will moreover be reinstated in all respects, in the situations which they occupied before they left public service. Those who do not avail themselves of the amnesty, will be prosecuted, when they return to France, with all the rigor of the law.
Given at George-Town, district of Columbia, this 7th of Germinal, 11th year, 28th March, 1803. L. A. PICHON.

From the INDEPENDENT CHRONICLE.
To SAMUEL ADAMS.
TO thee, who in the vale of years, Canst view the past, its hopes and fears, Thy glorious labors, cares and tears With honest joy, No shameless Bard his incense bears, Thou may'st rely.
O, could I paint thy upright zeal, Thy exertions for thy Country's weal, Where is the breast, that would not feel The patriot throes? And where the senilest heart of fuel That would not glow?
Who that beheld thee in the hour, When British thunder shook our shore, And British mercy pas'd thee o'er, Did not reverse That greatness, which could hear the roar, And did not fear?
But can that greatness merit praise, Whose object is a name to raise, And which in wild ambition's maze Delights to rove? Thine is not such; in virtue's ways We see thee move.
We've mark'd thee stedfast in the cause Of Freedom, Piety and Laws, Heedless of popular applause By baseness bought; May all, whom thirst of glory gnaws, By thee be taught.
Though now thy Sun of Life decline, And earthly joys not long be thine, May Heavenly comfort round thee shine And pour delight; And may'st thou the Redeemer join In celestial light.
ZELINOR.
Dr. Belknap.—While Mr. JEFFERSON is abused by the high-toned federalists for his religious tenets, merely because they are founded on philanthropy and benevolence, it is pleasing to observe the catholicism exhibited by late Dr. BELKNAP, in his "Century Sermon," preached before the Historical Society, 23d of Oct. 1792.—Page 40, speaking of the delectable doctrine of a test act, he proceeds, "Our ancestors in New-England established a test, before any was enacted by the British parliament: And though it has long since been abrogated, yet the idea of an exclusive right to the honor and emoluments of government, by the prevailing religious denomination, continuing till very lately. Some of us can remember the time when it was tho't a sufficient objection to a man's being chosen to a seat in the legislature that he belonged to the Episcopal church. And even at this enlightened period, I blush to own, that, by the Constitution of this Commonwealth, the Jew, the Mahometan, the Gentoo, and the disciple of Confucius, ARE EXCLUDED FROM OUR PUBLIC COUNCILS, be they ever so good citizens, whilst men, who for convenience call themselves Christians, though deeply tinged with infidelity, and destitute of moral principles, may be freely admitted." These are the sublime sentiments of one of the most reputable clerical characters, which have ornamented our country, since the adoption of the State Constitution. How insignificant must the revilers of Mr. JEFFERSON appear in opposition to such dignified liberality!
Boston Chron.
BOARDING-HOUSE.
THE Public are respectfully informed that the subscriber has opened a House of Entertainment in the dwelling house, lately occupied by Mr. George Littlefield, two doors from the Main-Street, leading to Mr. Robert Stevens' wharf; very pleasantly situated—where Ladies and Gentlemen may depend on being well accommodated, upon the most reasonable terms.
SPENCER HALL.
Newport, April 30.
WHEREAS the Court of probate for the town of North-Kingstown, having appointed the subscribers, Commissioners, to receive and examine the claims of the creditors to the estate of SAMUEL HUNT, Esq. late of North-Kingstown, deceased, represented insolvent:—All persons having any demands against said estate, are hereby notified to exhibit the same to either of the subscribers, at our respective dwellings, within twelve months from the date hereof, that being the time allowed by said court.
GEORGE THOMAS, } Commis- BENJAMIN SMITH, } sioners.
All persons indebted to the above estate, are desired to make immediate payment to JEREMIAH HUNT of Newport. North-Kingstown, April 21, 1803.
DAVID MELVILL, jun.
Has just opened, and now offers for sale, at his old stand, next door South of Mr. Townsend's Coffee-House, a neat and general Assortment of HARD WARE, STATIONARY, and other Articles.
AMONG which are, a great variety of the most fashionable cabinet furniture—brass knobs and hooks—pendal rings—elegant enameled and brass clock pins (or supporters for looking-glasses) brass locks, bolts, hinges, and table castors—files and rasps—screws, brads, and nails, of all kinds—brass and iron hinges—door, chest, trunk, cupboard, pad, and other locks—of every description—gun locks and brass furniture—knives and forks—desert knives—jack and pen knives—desk and office knives—scissors and shears—ring, knob, and thumb latches, brass and iron—peanut and iron, table and tea spoons—warming pans, copper and brass—composition, iron, sheet-iron and blocktin tea kettles—spades and shovels—hoes and tongs—sledgehammers—chasing hammers—griddles, patent and common—flattirons—bellows, brass and iron noses—bam, and iron coffee mills—brass, japan'd, and iron candlesticks—steel and japan'd snuffers—snuffer boats—patent lamps, various kinds.—Glue, first quality—Also, A handsome assortment japan'd ware.
Patent and common Time Glasses—Looking-glasses—chaise and riding whips, and whip cords—brass and iron wire—curry combs—mouse and rat traps—axes, adzes and hatchets—drawing-knives—carpenters and Kent hammers—wood-saws—band and slitting do.—tenant dovetail and sash do. brass and iron back-turning, compass and keyhole do.—double iron jack planes—jointers and smoothing planes—single iron do.—moulding and rabbet do.—aisgalls, hollows and rounds, and table planes—moving philisters and plan-planes—bit stocks with bits assorted—best cast-steel former chisels—common do.—morticing and socket chisels and gouges—cast-steel fluting gouges—plain iron's—sliding gunter—iron squares and compasses—carpenters rules—spike and nail gimblets—tapborers, &c. Shoemakers hammers, knives, knippers, pincers, rucks, awl blades, do. lasts, and size-sticks.—House, hearth, clothes, hat, dusting, and tooth-brushes—horse, shoe, and scrubbing and painters do.—bones, razors, razor strops and cases—shaving boxes—barn and ivory combs—brass, penwiper, leather, paper and glass inkstands—ink-powder—copper plate copy slips—letter, writing, and wrapping paper, every quality—quills from 50 cents to 3 dollars per hundred—feathering wax & wafers—black and red Morocco pocket books—best black led pencils, slates & slate pencils—gunter scales and dividers—powder flasks—best London penwiper tea pots. And a variety of other articles as low as can be bought in this town.
Newport, Dec. 24, 1802.
1175t
John G. Whitehorne
HAS FOR SALE, Anniseed Cordial, of an excellent quality, at his Distillery. Newport, April 23.
134
MEIN & ROGERS
HAVE FOR SALE, At their STORE in Thames-Street, at the Head of Banister's Wharf, NEWPORT, A general ASSORTMENT of GROCERIES, WHOLESALE & RETAIL.
Jamaica Rum, 4th and 5th Proof Cogniac Brandy Bek Holland Geneva Old Madeira London Particular Do. N.Y. Market Sherry Lisbon Malaga Port—and Claret Hibbert's brown Stout and London Porter French Cordials, a great Variety Molasses Bell Hyson Hyson Hyson skin Souchong—and Bohea Coffee Loaf, Macevado, & India Sugars Cask and box Raisins Currants Almonds Prunes Olives Anchovies Superfine & fine Flour
April 2, 1803.
131
Joseph W. Paul & Co.
Have for sale at their Store on Banister's Wharf, A GENERAL and genuine assortment of Groceries, as low as can be purchased in this town.—Likewise, Molasses of a superior quality per hoghead, New-England Rum by the hoghead. Sugar by the barrel. Tea by the dozen lb. Fresh Flour by the barrel, of which they intend to keep a constant supply. Masters of Vessels, &c. can be supplied with any articles they may want, and the smallest favor gratefully acknowledged. Newport, February 5, 1803.
CASH given for clean Cotton and Linen RAGS, and old Sail Cloth, at the Office of the Republican.
PROPOSALS
FOR CARRYING THE
Mails of the United States
On the following Post Roads,
Will be received at the GENERAL POST-OFFICE in WASHINGTON CITY, until the 1st day of July next, (1803) inclusive.
From Boston by Milton, Randolph, Bridgewater, Raynham, Taunton, Dighton, Somerset and Swansea to Warren R. I. once a week. Leave Boston every Monday at 3 P. M. and arrive at Warren on Thursday by 10 A. M. Leave Warren every Thursday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Boston on Saturday at 10 A. M.
From Newport by New-Bedford, Rochester, and Westport to Sandwich once a week. Leave Newport every Thursday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Sandwich on Friday by 6 P. M. Leave Sandwich every Wednesday at 6 A. M. and arrive at Newport on Thursday by 2 P. M.
From Providence by North-Providence, Cumberland, Mendon, Upton, Grafton, Worcester, Holden, Rutland, Barre, Peterham, Athol, Orange, Warwick, Northfield and Hinsdale, to Brattleboro, and thence by Wendell, New-Salem, Peterham, and the same route to Providence once a week. Leave Providence every Tuesday at 10 A. M. and arrive at Brattleboro, on Friday by 9 A. M. Leave Brattleboro, every Friday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Providence on Monday by 5 P. M.
RHODE-ISLAND. From Providence by Barrington, Bristol and Warren to Newport 6 times a week in summer and three times in winter.
Leave Providence every day Sunday excepted at 7 A. M. and arrive at Newport by 4 P. M. Leave Newport every day Sunday excepted at 8 A. M. and arrive at Providence by 4 P. M.
November 1 to May 1. Leave Providence every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7 A. M. and arrive at Newport at 4 P. M. Leave Newport every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 7 A. M. and arrive at Providence at 4 P. M.
From Providence by East-Greenwich, Little Rest and Wickford to Towerhill once a week. Leave Providence every Friday at 4 A. M. and arrive at Towerhill by 11 A. M. Returning—Leave Towerhill every Friday at 1 P. M. and arrive at Providence by 8 P. M.
From Newport by Towerhill, Charlestown, Westerly, Stonington ( Ct.) and Groton, to New-London, twice a week.—Leave Newport every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 A. M. and arrive at New-London on Wednesday and Friday by 2 P. M. Returning—Leave New-London every Tuesday and Thursday at 9 A. M. and arrive at Newport on Wednesday and Friday by noon.
From Providence to Taunton once a week. Leave Providence every Monday at 10 A. M. and arrive at Providence by 3 P. M. Leave Providence every Tuesday at 5 A. M. and arrive at Taunton by noon.
NOTES.
1. The Postmaster-General may expedite the mails and alter the times of arrival and departure at any time during the continuance of the contract, he stipulating an adequate compensation for any extra expense that may be occasioned thereby. 2. Fifteen minutes shall be allowed for opening and closing the mails at all offices, where no particular time is specified. 3. For every thirty minutes delay (unavoidable accidents excepted) in arriving after the times prescribed in any contract, the contractor shall forfeit one dollar; and if the delay continue until the departure of any depending mail, whereby the mails destined for such depending mails, lose a trip, an additional forfeiture of five dollars shall be incurred. 4. Newspapers as well as letters are to be sent in the mail; and if any person making proposals, desires to carry newspapers, other than those conveyed in the mail for his own emolument, he must state in his proposals, for what sum he will carry with the emolument, and for what sum without that emolument. 5. Should any person making proposals desire an alteration of the times of arrival and departure above specified, he must state in his proposals the alterations desired and the difference they will make in the terms of the contract. 6. Persons making proposals are desired to state their prices by the year. Those who contract will receive their pay quarterly in the months of February, May, August, and November, one month after the expiration of each quarter. 7. No other than a free white person shall be employed to convey the mail. 8. Where the proposer intends to convey the mail in the body of a stage carriage, he is desired to state it in his proposals. 9. The Postmaster General reserves to himself the right of declaring any contract at an end whenever three failures happen which amount to the loss of a trip each. 10. Those who wish to contract for two years, will make distinct proposals, specifying for what price they will perform the service for one year, and at what price for two years. 11. The contracts for the above routes are to be in operation on the first day of October next, and are to continue in force for one year, or two years, at the election of the Postmaster General.
GIDEON GRANGER, Postmaster-General.
General Post-Office, Washington-City, April 4th, 1803.
Book-Binding.
IN all its branches, performed at this Office, with neatness and expedition.—Ledgers and Account Books, of any dimension, made on the shortest notice.
Old Books, re-bound, on reasonable terms.
BANKRUPTCY.
WHEREAS a Commission of Bankruptcy (founded upon an Act of Congress, entitled "An Act to establish an uniform system of Bankruptcy throughout the United States") has been awarded and issued against Robert Lawson, of Newport, in the county of Newport, and district of Rhode-Island, merchant; and he having been declared a bankrupt;—He is hereby required to surrender himself to the said Commissioners in the said Commission named, on Monday the 9th, and Thursday the 19th day of May next, and Wednesday the 8th day of June next, at 9 o'clock in the forenoon of each of said days, at the State House chamber in said Newport; and make a full discovery and disclosure of his estate and effects: When and where his creditors are to come prepared to prove their claims, and at the second sitting to choose assignees; and at the last sitting, the said bankrupt is required to finish his examination.—All persons indebted to the said bankrupt, or who have any of his effects, are not to pay or deliver the same except to whom the Commissioners shall appoint.
EDWARD HEMSTEAD,
Clerk to the Commissioners.
Newport, April 28, 1803.
135
For Sale, by the subscriber, a great quantity of OAK U M, WHICH will be disposed of, either in large or small quantities, as low as can be purchased in this State.
CASH, and the highest price, given for old JUNK, as usual. JOHN WILLIAMS, Keeper of the Work-House. Newport, Feb. 12.
7215
Freborn & Charles Coggeshall
OPPOSITE Mr. G. GIBB'S Store, have constantly for sale, a great variety of TRUNKS, From One Dollar 25 Cents, to Eight Dollars each. Likewise, Men's and Women's warranted Saddles and Bridles, men's and women's Shoes. Also, Rum, Brandy, Gin, Sugar, Tea, Coffee, Molasses, Flour, Ginger, Allspice, Pepper, Cinnamon, and other articles in the Grocery line.
They have on hand, one hundred pair of Boys Calf skin Shoes. All which will be disposed of on reasonable terms. Best Spanish SEGARS, by the large or small quantity. Newport, April 20, 1803.
134 6n
To be Sold or Let, A WELL finished Dwelling-House, situated on Thames-Street, opposite Mr. Robert Stevens'—Also a new Store, adjoining the yard and garden, with a good well of water.—If not immediately sold, the Shop, with house part of the House, will be to let.—The situation, both for health and business, is not inferior to any in town. Conditions may be known by applying to HENRY G. CHAMPLIN. Newport, Nov. 20, 1802.
exii
Public Entertainment.
THE subscriber informs the Public that he has opened a House of Entertainment in Water-Street, in the town of WARREN, sign of the Ship; west of Cole's Inn.—Constant attendance will be given, and every attention paid to Ladies and Gentlemen, for their accommodation, by the Public's humble servant, PRESERVED ALGER.
October 23, 1802.
exiii
Tin Plate Worker.
GORTON ANDERSON, respectfully informs his friends and the public in general, that he has taken a part of the fore belonging to his father, Francis Anderson, opposite the Red Market, where he carries on the business of a Tin Plate Worker, in all its various branches: Those who may favor him with their custom, may depend upon punctuality: Constant attendance will be given, and the smallest favors gratefully acknowledged.
Cash given for old Pewter & Lead. Newport, April 16.
133
NOTICE
IS hereby given, to all persons having any demands against the estate of Captain JOSEPH CONGDON, late of Jamestown, deceased, to exhibit them; and all persons indebted to said estate, are called upon to make payment to MARY CONGDON, of Jamestown, Executrix to said estate; or to EBENEZER SHEARMAN, her lawful Agent, at Newport. November 22, 1802.
113tf
ABNER TABER,
HAVING been absent four months from home, and now having recommenced Taylorling, in every branch, He informs his customers that he carries on his business in the shop where he formerly did on Banister's wharf, where those persons who incline to favor him with their employment, may rely on having their work performed in the usual good order; and in the newest fashions. All persons having unsettled accounts with said Taber, are requested to exhibit them for settlement without delay. Newport, April 16.
133
For Sale,
ON reasonable terms a convenient two story Dwelling House on Spring-Street, near Mr. John Banister's, with five rooms on the lower floor, and four above. A good Cellar, and a Shop adjoining, with an excellent well of water. For particulars, inquire of HENRY HOWLAND. Living on the premises. Newport, March 4, 1803.
127