The Providence journal, and town and country advertiser (Providence [R.I.]), 1799-12-25 00:00:00

The Providence Journal.
AND
TOWN AND COUNTRY ADVERTISER.
Published on WEDNESDAYS, by JOHN CARTER, JUN. Printer of the LAWS of the UNITED STATES for the State of RHODE-ISLAND, &c. At the NEW PRINTING-OFFICE, West Side of the great Bridge, PROVIDENCE.
[ No. 52. ]
WEDNESDAY, December 25, 1799.
[ Vol. I. ]
SIXTH
Congress of the United States.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
MONDAY, December 9.
THE House went into committee on the answer to the President's speech. Mr. Dent in the chair. Mr. Gregg moved to strike out the words in the second paragraph, "to be seduced by the arts and misrepresentations of designing men," as he said there had not been official proof of the fact laid before the House. He denied the assertion, and was supported by Mr. Smilie. —The propriety of the sentence was advocated by Messrs. Rutledge, Marshall and Harper; and the answer was reported to the House, without amendment, and adopted, as follows:
To the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES.
SIR, WHILE the House of Representatives contemplate the flattering prospects of abundance from the labours of the people, by land and by sea; the prosperity of our extended commerce, notwithstanding interruptions occasioned by the belligerent state of a great part of the world; the return of health, industry and trade to those cities which have lately been afflicted with disease, and the various and inestimable advantages, civil and religious, which, secured under our happy frame of government, are continued to us unimpaired, we cannot fail to offer up to a benevolent Deity, our sincere thanks for these, the merciful dispensations of his protecting Providence.
That any portion of the people of America should permit themselves, amidst such numerous blessings, to be seduced by the arts and misrepresentations of designing men, into an open resistance of a law of the United States, cannot be heard without deep and serious regret. Under a constitution where the public burthens can only be imposed by the people themselves, for their own benefit, and to promote their own objects, a hope might well have been indulged, that the general interest would have been too well understood, and the general welfare too highly prized, to have produced in any of our citizens a disposition to hazard so much felicity, by the criminal effort of a part, to oppose, with lawless violence, the will of the whole. While we lament that depravity which could produce a defiance of the civil authority, and render indispensable the aid of the military force of the nation, real consolation is to be derived from the promptness and fidelity with which that aid was afforded. That zealous and active co-operation with the judicial power of the volunteers and militia called into service, which has restored order and submission to the laws, is a pleasing evidence of the attachment of our fellow-citizens to their own free government, and of the truly patriotic alacrity with which they will support it.
To give due effect to the civil administration of government, and to insure a just execution of the laws, are objects of such real magnitude, as to secure a proper attention to your recommendation of a revision and amendment of the judiciary system.
Highly approving, as we do, the pacific and humane policy which has been invariably professed and sincerely pursued by the executive authority of the United States, a policy which our best interests enjoined, and of which honour has permitted the observance, we consider as the most unequivocal proof of your inflexible perseverance in the same well-chosen system, your preparation to meet the first indications on the part of the French Republic, of a disposition to accommodate the existing differences between the two countries, by a nomination of ministers on certain conditions, which the honour of our country unquestionably dictated, and which its moderation had certainly given it a right to prescribe. When the assurances, thus required of the French government previous to the departure of our Envoys, had been given through their Minister of Foreign Relations, the direction that they should proceed on their mission, was on your part a completion of the measure, and manifested the sincerity with which it was commenced. We offer up our fervent prayers to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, for the success of their embassy, and that it may be productive of peace and happiness to our common country. The uniform tenure of your conduct through a life useful to your fellow-citizens, and honourable to yourself, gives a sure pledge of the sincerity with which the avowed objects of the negotiation will be pursued on your part, and we earnestly pray that similar dispositions may be displayed on the part of France. The differences which unfortunately subsist between the two nations cannot fail, in that event, to be happily terminated. To produce this end, to all desirable, firmness, moderation and union at home, constitute, we are persuaded, the surest means.
The character of the gentlemen you have deputed, and still more, the character of the government which deputed them, are safe pledges to their country, that nothing incompatible with their honour or interest, nothing inconsistent with our obligations of good faith or friendship to any other nation, will be stipulated.
We learn, with pleasure, that our citizens, with their property, trading to those ports of St. Domingo with which commercial intercourse has been renewed, have been duly respected, and that privateering from those ports has ceased.
With you, we sincerely regret that the execution of the VIth article of the treaty of amity, commerce and navigation with Great-Britain, an article produced by a mutual spirit of amity and justice, should have been unavoidably interrupted. We doubt not that the same spirit of amity, and the same sense of justice, in which it originated, will lead to satisfactory explanations; and we hear, with approbation, that our minister at London will be immediately instructed to obtain them. While the engagements which America has contracted by her treaty with Great-Britain ought to be fulfilled with that scrupulous punctuality and good faith to which our government has ever so tenaciously adhered; yet no motive exists to induce, and every principle forbids us to adopt, a construction which might extend them beyond the instrument by which they are created. We cherish the hope that the government of Great-Britain will disclaim such extension, and by cordially uniting with that of the United States, for the removal of all difficulties, will soon enable the Boards appointed under the VIth and VIIth articles of our treaty with that nation, to proceed, and bring the business committed to them respectively to a satisfactory conclusion.
The buildings for the accommodation of Congress and of the President, and for the public offices of the government, at its permanent seat, being in such a state as to admit of a removal to that district by the time prescribed by the act of Congress, no obstacle, it is presumed, will exist to a compliance with the law.
With you, Sir, we deem the present period critical and momentous. The important changes which are occurring; the new and great events which are every hour preparing in the political world; the spirit of war which is prevalent in almost every nation with whose affairs the interests of the United States have any connection, demonstrate how unsafe and precarious would be our situation, should we neglect the means of maintaining our just rights. Respecting, as we have ever done, the rights of others, America estimates too correctly the value of her own, and has received evidence too complete, that they are only to be preserved by her own vigilance, ever to permit herself to be seduced by a love of ease, or by other considerations, into that deadly disregard of the means of self-defence, which could only result from a carelessness as criminal as it would be fatal, concerning the future destinies of our growing republic. The result of the mission to France is indeed, Sir, uncertain. It depends not on America alone. The most pacific temper will not always insure peace. We should therefore exhibit a system of conduct as indiscreet as it would be new in the history of the world, if we considered the negotiation happily terminated, because we have attempted to commence it, and peace restored because we wish its restoration. But, Sir, however this mission may terminate, a steady perseverance in a system of national defence, commensurate with our resources, and the situation of our country, is an obvious dictate of duty. Experience, the parent of wisdom, and the great instructor of nations, has established the truth of your position, that remotely as we are placed from the belligerent nations, and desirous as we are, by doing justice to all, to avoid offence to any, yet nothing short of the power of repelling aggressions will secure to our country a rational prospect of escaping the calamities of war or national degradation.
In the progress of the session, we shall take into our serious consideration the various and important matters recommended to our attention.
A life devoted to the service of your country, talents and integrity which have so justly acquired and so long retained the confidence and affection of your fellow-citizens, attest the sincerity of your declaration, that it is your anxious desire so to execute the trust reposed in you, as to render the people of the United States prosperous and happy.
Messrs. Marshall, Rutledge and Sewall, were appointed a committee to wait on the President of the United States, to know when and where it would be convenient for him to receive the address. The committee reported the President would be ready to receive it to-morrow, at two o'clock, at his house. It was then resolved, that the Speaker, accompanied by the members, do attend to-morrow, at the time appointed, to present the same.
PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS.
The House, in committee of the whole, took the President's speech into consideration. Mr. D. Foster moved,
That committee be raised to take into consideration so much of the speech as relates to a revision and amendment of the judiciary system; and so much of it as relates to a system of national defence commensurate with our resources, and the situation of our country.—Five were chosen on the first, and seven on the second motion.
WAYS AND MEANS.
Nine members were named by the Speaker, as a committee of ways and means.
DELEGATE TO CONGRESS.
Mr. W. H. Harrison having produced his credentials as Delegate to Congress, from the N. W. Territory, the same were referred to the committee of elections.
TUESDAY, December 10.
Mr. Clay, from Virginia, appeared this day, was called, and took his seat.
The House resumed the consideration of the resolution postponed yesterday, which, after being read, was agreed to in the words following, to wit:
2. Resolved, That so much of the speech of the President of the United States, to both Houses of Congress, at the commencement of the present session, as relates to the expenditure of public monies, be referred to the committee of ways and means.
Mr. Claiborne moved the following resolution, which was adopted:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire whether any, and what provision ought to be made, by law, for the punishment of such persons as may be discovered in making attempts to alienate the affections of any Indian nation, tribe, or chief, from the United States, or in exciting them to hostilities against the United States; or to the violation of any existing treaty; and that the said committee be authorized to report by bill or otherwise.
Mr. Harrison called up the consideration of the resolution which he laid upon the table on Friday last, relative to the Judiciary establishment of the territory of the United States, N. W. of the river Ohio; and the resolution having been read, on motion, it was agreed to by the House.
Mr. Harrison presented a petition of Lardner Clark, a citizen of the United States, residing at Kaskaskias, in the North-Western Territory, praying for the confirmation of his title to a certain tract of land granted under the old French government, the papers ascertaining his right to which, had been lost or destroyed. Referred to a select committee.
Mr. Griswold, from the committee of revival and unfinished business, made a report, which was ordered to be printed.
Mr. Thatcher presented a petition of Nathaniel Libin, a soldier in the service of the United States during the late war, praying for certain pay, out of which he had been defrauded by a forged order. Referred to the committee of claims.
Mr. Thatcher also presented a memorial of the ship-owners, inhabitants of the towns of Wells and Arundel, in the district of Maine, praying that said towns may be erected into a distinct and separate port of entry. Referred to the committee of commerce and manufactures.
On motion of Mr. Dawson,
Ordered, That leave be given to bring in a bill or bills, providing for an enumeration of the inhabitants of the United States; and that the committee of ways and means do prepare and bring in the same.
On motion of Mr. Claiborne, the House came to the following resolution:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire whether any, and what amendments are necessary to be made in the acts establishing a post-office and post-roads within the United States.
Mr. Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Secretary of State, exhibiting sundry returns from the collectors, of engrossed American seamen, with sundry abstracts—which were ordered to be printed.
The hour having arrived which the President had appointed; Mr. Speaker, attended by the members present, proceeded to the President's house, to present him their address, in answer to his speech at the opening of the present session; and having returned, the President's reply there to was read, as follows:
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.
THIS very respectful address from the Representatives of the people of the United States, at their first assembly, after a fresh election, under the strong impression of the public opinion and national sense, at this interesting and singular crisis of our public affairs, has excited my sensibility, and receives my sincere and grateful acknowledgments.
As long as we can maintain, with harmony and affection, the honour of our country, consistent with its peace, externally and internally, while that is attainable, or in war, when that becomes necessary—assert its real independence and sovereignty, and support the constitutional energies and dignity of its government—we may be perfectly sure, under the smiles of Divine Providence, that we shall effectually promote and extend our national interest and happiness.
The applause of the Senate and House of Representatives, so justly bestowed upon the volunteers and militia, for their zealous and active co-operation with the judicial power, which has restored order and submission to the laws, as it comes with peculiar weight and propriety from
the Legislature, cannot fail to have an extensive and permanent effect, for the support of government, upon all those ingenious minds, who receive delight from the approving and animating voice of their country.
JOHN ADAMS.
United States, December 10, 1799.
And then the House adjourned till to-morrow morning, 11 o'clock.
Mr. Josiah Parker and Mr. Robert Page, from Virginia, appeared on Monday, were qualified, and took their seats.
Mr. Speaker, on Monday, laid before the House a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, inclosing a statement of his account for the year 1799. Ordered to lie on the table.
Messrs. Harper, Griswold, Otis, Gallatin, Powell, John Brown, Stone, Nott, and Platt, were appointed a standing committee of ways and means.
Messrs. Harper, C. Goodrich, Bayard, Marshall, and Sewall, were appointed a committee, in pursuance of a resolution passed on Monday, relative to the revision and amendment of the judiciary system.
SENATE.
This day, at 12 o'clock, the Senate, in a body, waited on the President of the United States, with the following Address, in answer to his speech to both Houses:
To the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES:
ACCEPT, Sir, the respectful acknowledgments of the Senate of the United States, for your speech, delivered to both Houses of Congress at the opening of the present session.
While we devoutly join you in offering our thanks to Almighty God for the return of health to our cities, and for the general prosperity of the country; we cannot refrain from lamenting that the arts and calumnies of factious and designing men have excited open rebellion a second time in Pennsylvania, and thereby compelled the employment of a military force to aid the civil authority in the execution of the laws. We rejoice that your vigilance, energy and well-timed exertions, have crushed so daring an opposition, and prevented the spreading of such treasonable combinations. The promptitude and zeal displayed by the troops called to suppress this insurrection, deserve our highest commendation and praise, and afford a pleasing proof of the spirit and alacrity with which our fellow-citizens are ready to maintain the authority of our excellent government.
Knowing, as we do, that the United States are sincerely anxious for a fair and liberal execution of the treaty of amity, commerce and navigation entered into with Great-Britain; we learn, with regret, that the progress of adjustment has been interrupted by a difference of opinion among the commissioners. We hope, however, that the justice, the moderation, and the obvious interest of both parties, will lead to satisfactory explanations, and that the business will then go forward to an amicable close of all the differences and demands between the two countries. We are fully persuaded that the Legislature of the United States will cheerfully enable you to realize your assurances of performing, on our part, all engagements under our treaties, with punctuality, and the most scrupulous good faith.
When we reflect upon the uncertainty of the result of the late mission to France, and upon the uncommon nature, extent, and aspect of the war now raging in Europe; which affects materially our relations with the powers at war, and which has changed the condition of their colonies in our neighbourhood; we are of opinion with you, that it would be neither wise nor safe to relax our measures of defence, or to lessen any of our preparations to repel aggression.
Our enquiries and attention shall be carefully directed to the various other important subjects which you have recommended to our consideration; and from our experience of your past administration; we anticipate with the highest confidence your strenuous co-operation in all measures which have a tendency to promote and extend our national interest and happiness.
To which the President made the following REPLY:
Gentlemen of the Senate,
I THANK you for this address. I wish you all possible success and satisfaction in your deliberations on the means which have a tendency to promote and extend our national interests and happiness—and I assure you, that in all your measures, directed to those great objects, you may at all times rely with the highest confidence on my cordial co-operation.
The praise of the Senate, so judiciously conferred on the promptitude and zeal of the troops called to suppress the insurrection, as it falls from so high authority, must make a deep impression, both as a terror to the disobedient, and an encouragement to such as do well.
JOHN ADAMS.
United States, December 10, 1799.

WEDNESDAY, December 11.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the President of the Senate pro. tem. including a report from the commissioners of the sinking fund, which was ordered to be printed. Some difficulties having appeared in the execution of the law for the valuation of lands, &c. particularly in Pennsylvania; and the commissioners conceiving their power not to extend to the adoption of any other plan than the one pointed out by law; Mr. Harper moved the following resolution, viz.
Resolved, That the committee of ways and means have leave to bring in a bill farther to amend an act entitled, "An Act to provide for the valuation of lands and dwelling-houses, and for the enumeration of slaves in the United States."
After some little debate the motion was carried.
Mr. John B. Cutting, having procured the necessary papers, in evidence of his services, in behalf of the United States, in liberating American seamen, while in Europe, a motion was made and carried to have the papers printed.
THURSDAY, December 12.
THE NAVY.
On motion of Mr. Otis, a committee was raised to make enquiry into the state of the naval equipments ordered by Congress;—to consider whether any, and what other naval force may be necessary for the protection of the commerce of the United States, and for the support of its flag; and whether any, and what alterations ought to be made in the law relative to the navy of the United States.
SLAVE TRADE.
Mr. Foster called up the resolution on the subject of the slave trade, which was agreed to by the House.
On motion of Mr. Sewall, the petition of Robert Hooper was recommitted to the committee of claims.
To give time to the committee to mature their reports, the House adjourned until Monday.
MONDAY, December 16.
A petition of sundry inhabitants of the state of New-Hampshire, presented at the last session, and undecided upon, praying for the establishment of a post-office, was ordered to be referred to the committee on post-offices and post-roads.
Mr. Claiborne, from the committee appointed to enquire whether any and what provision ought to be made for the punishment of such persons as may be discovered in making attempts to alienate the affections of the Indians on our frontiers from the U. States, reported "a bill for the preservation of peace with the Indian tribes, which was read a first and second time, and referred to a committee of the whole on Wednesday."
Mr. Otis, pursuant to leave given for that purpose, reported "a bill extending the privilege of franking to William Henry Harrison, a delegate from the territory of the United States N. W. of the river Ohio, and making provision for his compensation;" which was read a first and second time, and committed to a committee of the whole to-morrow.
Mr. Dana, from the committee of elections, made a report, certifying the due election of all the members who have produced their credentials, which was read and committed to a committee of the whole House.
A message was received from the Senate, by Mr. Otis, their secretary, informing the House, that the Senate had passed an act entitled, "An act for the relief of persons imprisoned for debt," and "An act for revising and continuing suits and proceedings in the circuit court for the district of Pennsylvania," to which they requested the concurrence of the House.
The former was read a first and second time, and committed to a committee of the whole for to-morrow. The latter was read a third time and passed.
Mr. Dana, from the committee of elections, to whom were referred the credentials of William Henry Harrison, a delegate from the N. W. Territory, made a report, which concluded with the following resolution:
"Resolved, That William Henry Harrison, a delegate from the territory of the United States N. W. of the river Ohio, be admitted to have a seat in this House, with the right of debating, but not of voting," which was committed to a committee of the whole House this day.
Mr. Griswold, from the committee of ways and means, reported "a bill providing for the enumeration of the inhabitants of the United States," which was read a first and second time, and committed to a committee of the whole on Thursday next.
Mr. Griswold, from the same committee, also reported a bill supplementary to the act entitled, "An act to provide for the valuation of lands and dwelling-houses, and the enumeration of slaves within the United States," which was read a first and second time, and committed to a committee of the whole for to-morrow.
The House, agreeable to the order of the day, went into a committee of the whole on the report of the committee to whom were referred the credentials of William H. Harrison, Esq. and the resolution having been read, was agreed to without amendment—and the report concurred in by the House.
Mr. H. Lee moved the following resolution, which was adopted by the House, viz.
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed to report whether any, and if any, what alterations are necessary to be made in the Militia law of the United States."
In prefacing his motion, General Lee said, he wished to call the attention of the House to a subject highly interesting to the citizens of the United States, and deserving the serious attention of its Legislature. He thought the system heretofore pursued was radically wrong—and viewed every measure which was not predicated on the wishes of the people, as answering but
little effect. He wished to see that system of defence, which, growing out of nature, shall enable all men to serve, without injuring their families. The youth of our country should alone be called upon, who would be found sufficiently adequate for its defence. Seventeen and twenty-six were the ages of which the defenders of our country should consist.—When father and son are arrayed in the same ranks, a wavering must take place, and present an opportunity for an impression from the enemy. He concluded a concise and elegant speech, by moving the above resolution.
A petition of Joshua Wilkins, of Waterford, in the county of Cumberland, State of Massachusetts, a soldier during the late war, praying for arrearages of pay, out of which he was defrauded by the pay-master of the regiment to which he belonged;
A petition of S. Howe, of Cambridge, county of Middlesex, State of Massachusetts, widow of lieutenant Howe, an officer of the United States during the late war;
A petition of W. Donaldson, undecided upon the last session; and a petition of W. Boys, an officer in the 4th Virginia regiment on the continental establishment, during the late war—were read and referred to the committee of claims.—Adjourned.
TUESDAY, December 17.
Mr. Hartley, from Pennsylvania, and Mr. Eggleston, from Virginia, appeared yesterday, were qualified, and took their seats.
Mr. Eggleston presented a petition of Robert and Walter Colhoun, of the town of Petersburg, (Virginia) merchants, praying for the relinquishment of monies due on bonds given by them for the payment of duties on goods, which were damaged on board the ship Juno, in coming up James River. Referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. Otis moved, That the committee of the whole, to whom was referred the bill from the Senate for the relief of persons imprisoned for debt, be discharged; and that the bill be committed to the select committee, to whom was referred a similar subject. Agreed.
Mr. Otis said, he made this motion in consequence of some recent information which he had received on the subject from the Judge of the district court of Pennsylvania. The bill from the Senate was merely a copy of the old law, in which there were several imperfections. He had not yet had time to mature his reflections on the alterations necessary to be made in the bill, but expected if it were committed (as he proposed) to receive such additional information from the District Judge on this subject, as would render the law, if passed, more beneficial, and competent to the purposes for which it was intended.
Mr. D. Foster moved that the report made at the last session on the petition of John Vaughan, and undecided upon, be again referred to the committee of the whole House.
The motion was agreed to, and the report made the order for to-morrow.
The House went into committee of the whole on the bill for extending the privilege of franking to W. H. Harrison, Esq. a Delegate from the territory of the U. States North West of the river Ohio, and making provision for his compensation—Mr. Rutledge in the chair.
The bill having been read, and agreed to without amendment, received its third reading, and passed.
Mr. S. Smith, from the committee of Commerce and Manufactures, reported a bill providing for salvage in case of re-capture, which was read a first and second time, and committed to a committee of the whole House on Thursday.
Mr. S. Smith presented a petition of H. Stouper and Andrew Wallace, of the city of Baltimore, merchants, stating that they had by lawful purchase, in the island of Tortola, become the owners of a certain ship or vessel called the Columbus, which had been captured from the French by the American brig Genius, Denbo Cable, commander, belonging to Cadwallader Colden, of New-York, then on board the said brig. That by virtue of a commission produced from the American government by the persons aforesaid, in the British court of Vice Admiralty, the ship Columbus was adjudged to be the property of the captors, and thereupon sold by the said Colden to the petitioners. That on her arrival at the Port of Baltimore, and upon due application being made to the collector for an American Register, the same was refused upon the ground that there was no law which embraced the subject.—Wherefore the petitioners pray that a law may be passed authorizing the collector aforesaid to grant a register for the Columbus. Referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
The House went into committee of the whole on the bill supplementary to the act entitled, "An act to provide for the valuation of lands and dwelling-houses, and the enumeration of slaves, within the U. States;" and the bill having been read, was agreed to without amendment, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading to-morrow. Adjourned.
Public Documents.
[The following are the only documents relative to the Mission to France, and recently communicated to Congress by the President, which have not been heretofore published.]
Letter from Patrick Henry, Esq. to the Secretary of State.
Charlotte County, in Virginia, April 16, 1799.
SIR, YOUR favour of the 25th ult. did not reach me till two days ago. I have been confined for several weeks by a severe indisposition, and am still so sick as to be scarcely able to write this. My advanced age and increasing debility, compell me to abandon every idea of serving my country, where the scene of operation is far distant, and her interests call for incessant and long continued exertion. Conscious as I am of my inability to discharge the duties of Envoy, &c. to France, to which, by the commission you send me, I am called, I herewith return it. I cannot, however, forbear expressing, on this occasion, the high sense I entertain of the honour done me by the President and Senate in the appointment:—and I beg of you, Sir, to present me to them in terms of the most dutiful regard, assuring them that this mark of their confidence in me, at a crisis so eventful, is a very agreeable and flattering proof of their consideration towards me, and that nothing short of absolute necessity could induce me to withhold my little aid from an administration, whose abilities, patriotism and virtue, deserve the gratitude and reverence of all their fellow-citizens.
With sentiments of very high regard, and unfeigned esteem, I am, Sir, your most obedient and very humble servant, P. HENRY.
The Hon. T. Pickering, Esq. Secretary of State.
Department of State, Philadelphia, March 6th, 1799.
SIR, I INCLOSE a commission constituting you, in conjunction with Chief Justice Ellsworth, and Patrick Henry, Esq. of Virginia, Envoys Extraordinary and Ministers Plenipotentiary to the French Republic. By the President's direction I inclose for your information copies of his messages to the Senate of the 18th and 27th of March, by the latter of which you will see the motives inducing the nomination of a commission for the purpose of negotiating with France, instead of resting the business wholly with you. This will doubtless be agreeable, by relieving you from the weight of a sole responsibility in an affair of such magnitude.
It is the President's desire, that you, by letter to the French minister of foreign relations, inform him, "that Oliver Ellsworth, Chief Justice of the United States, Patrick Henry, late Governor of Virginia, and yourself, are appointed Envoys Extraordinary and Ministers Plenipotentiary of the United States to the French Republic, with full powers to discuss and settle, by a treaty, all controversies between the United States and France." But, "that the two former will not embark for Europe until they shall have received from the Executive Directory direct and unequivocal assurances, signified by their Secretary of foreign relations, that the Envoys shall be received in character to an audience of the Directory, and that they shall enjoy all the prerogatives attached to that character by the law of nations, and that a minister or ministers of equal powers shall be appointed and commissioned to treat with them."
The answer you shall receive to your letter you will be pleased to transmit to this office.
You will also be pleased to understand it to be the President's opinion, that no more indirect and unofficial communications, written or verbal, should be held with any persons whatever, agents on behalf of France, on the subjects of difference between the United States and the French Republic. If the French government really desires a settlement of the existing differences, it must take the course above pointed out; unless the executive Directory should prefer sending a Minister Plenipotentiary to the United States.
I have the honour to be, Very respectfully, Sir, Your obedient servant, TIMOTHY PICKERING. William Vans Murray, Esq. Minister of the United States, at the Hague.
The Hague, 5th of May, 1799.
CITIZEN MINISTER, IT is with the greatest pleasure that I hasten to fulfil the instructions which I have just had the honour to receive from the government of the United States of America, by informing you that the President has appointed Oliver Ellsworth, Chief Justice of the United States, Patrick Henry, late Governor of Virginia, and William Vans Murray, Minister resident of the United States at the Hague, to be Envoys Extraordinary and Ministers Plenipotentiary of the United States to the French Republic, with full powers to discuss and settle, by a treaty, all controversies between the United States and France; but that the two former (Mr. Ellsworth and Mr. Henry) will not embark for Europe until they shall have received from the Executive Directory direct and unequivocal assurances, signified by their minister of foreign relations, that the Envoys shall be received in character to an audience of the Directory, and that they shall enjoy all the prerogatives attached to that character by the law of nations, and that a minister or ministers of equal powers shall be appointed and commissioned to treat with them.
I request you, citizen Minister, to lay this subject before your government, and as the distance is so great, and the obstacles so numerous in the Atlantic voyage, that you will favour me, as speedily as possible, with the answer which is to lead to such happy and important consequences.
Accept, citizen Minister, the assurances of my perfect and high esteem.
(Signed) MM. V. MURRAY. To the Citizen Talleyrand, Minister of the Exterior Relations of the French Republic, &c. &c. PARIS.
The Hague, 7th May, 1799.
DEAR SIR, ON the 4th inst. late in the evening, I had the honour to receive your No. 21, containing the commission of Envoys.
On the 5th I addressed, precisely agreeable to your instructions, as I conceived, the inclosed letter to Mr. Talleyrand, the minister of exterior relations. You will perceive, Sir, that I
did not think myself at liberty to go, not only out of the commas, but beyond them.—In one word alone I deviated, in the word "Minister," instead of "Secretary," of Foreign Relations. No direct nor indirect and unofficial communications, written or verbal, will be held by me with the French agents on American affairs.
I accept the appointment which it has pleased the President to cloath me with, under a grateful sense of the high honour conferred upon me, so unexpectedly, by this mark of his confidence. I may be allowed to say, that though I was deeply sensible of the honour conferred by the first nomination, and shall always, I hope, retain a most grateful recollection of it; yet, Sir, the new modification of that nomination gave me great pleasure, always conceiving, as I thought I did, that any negotiation with France would be full of anxieties and political perils to the Envoys that should be employed by our government, I had no wishes to be engaged in it, and no expectation that I should be: to have a share in it, was by me unthought: you will excuse this declaration, because I was instrumental in certain preliminary steps relative to the advances of France, which produced the basis of the appointment.
I sent the original of the inclosed to Mr. Talleyrand by post; another, a copy, to Major Mountstuart, to be handed to him; a third to a Mr. Griffith, for Major M. in case the other failed, to be opened by Mr. G. if Major M. should have been out of Paris, and directed Mr. G. to follow the instructions which he would find in the letter to Major M. which were to deliver the inclosed to Mr. Talleyrand, and take his letter, in answer for me, and to send it to me.
As soon as I have the answer of the Directory, I shall have the honour of transmitting copies to you, Sir, by different ways.
I am, with the greatest respect and sincere esteem, dear Sir, faithfully your most obedient servant,
WILLIAM V. MURRAY.
The Hon. T. Pickering, Esq. Secretary of State of the U. States of America.
Paris, 23rd Floreal [12th May, 1799] 7th year of the French Republic, one and indivisible. The Minister of Exterior Relations, to Mr. William Vans Murray, Minister Resident of the United States at the Hague.
I AUGUR too well, Sir, from the eagerness you display in fulfilling the instructions of your government, not to hasten to answer the letter I received from you, dated the 15th of this month.
The Executive Directory being informed of the nomination of Mr. Oliver Ellsworth, of Mr. Patrick Henry, and of yourself, as envoys extraordinary and ministers plenipotentiary of the United States to the French Republic, to discuss and terminate all differences which subsist between the two countries, sees with pleasure, that its perseverance in pacific sentiments has kept open the way to an approaching reconciliation. It has a long time ago manifested its intentions with respect to this subject. Be pleased to transmit to your colleagues, and accept yourself, the frank and explicit assurance, that it will receive the Envoys of the United States, in the official character with which they are invested; that they shall enjoy all the prerogatives which are attached to it by the law of nations, and that one or more ministers shall be duly authorized to treat with them.
It was certainly unnecessary to suffer so many months to elapse for the mere confirmation of what I have already declared to Mr. Gery, and which, after his departure, I caused to be declared to you at the Hague. I sincerely regret that your two colleagues await this answer at such a great distance.—As to you, Sir, whom it will reach in a few days, and who understand so well the value of time, when the restoration of harmony between two republics, which every thing invites to friendship, is in question, be assured, that as soon as you can take in hand the object of your mission, I shall have the honour immediately to send you passports.
Accept, Sir, the assurances of my very sincere consideration.
(Signed) CH. MAU. TALLEYRAND.
Late Foreign Intelligence.
HAERLEM, October 8.
Letters from the commissaries of the army to the Directory of the Batavian Republic.
CITIZEN DIRECTORS, WE hasten to send you the favourable news, that the enemy are totally beaten, and are retreating rapidly.—The French have taken Alkmaar and are busied in following the enemy.—We are desired to send to Beverwyk 200 men to escort the prisoners here. We hope to have the pleasure this evening to send the particulars of the victory which we have obtained.
E. DE PINEDA. E. DE PINEDA. W. E. DOMPELER.
From Amsterdam they write,
To-day the municipality have published an account from general De Monceau, that the English retreated from Alkmaar, and that the French have taken possession; that great disorder prevails in the English army, and that the Russians assassinate their officers; that 500 men, who were taken by the English, are sent back unexchanged. The prisoners of the enemy say that the battle of the 6th cost them 6000 men and 15 pieces of cannon. This evening passed 23 waggons with wounded Frenchmen.
* One general has suffered, which is supposed to be the cause of their retreat.
Extract of a letter from Alkmaar.
This morning, at 3 o'clock, the English evacuated our town, and retreated to Langendyk, and the Dutch and French troops entered at 10 o'clock. 'Tis remarkable that the same day, in 1572, it was likewise retaken.

Head-quarters at Beverwyk, 6th of October. Brune, General in Chief, to the Batavian Directors. CITIZEN DIRECTORS, I was convinced that the enemy would be deceived by the position to which I had fallen back. He attacked us to-day. We fought from 7 o'clock, A. M. to 8 in the evening. The enemy have been beaten and pursued to Egmont. We have taken 11 pieces of cannon and 1500 Russian and English prisoners; a great number, principally Russians, are killed. The Dutch generals Bonhomme and Vichery distinguished themselves. I have to acknowledge the good conduct of the national troops of Rotterdam—they stood the fire like veterans. Respectfully, BRUNE.
HAGUE, October 10. The citizens E. de Peneda and W. E. Van Dompeler, commissioners of the Executive of the Batavian Republic for the organization of an army of armed citizens, have written the following letter to the said executive, dated Haarlem, October 8. CITIZEN DIRECTORS, The news which we had the honour to write you this day at noon, is not only confirmed, but this evening a French adjutant-general arrived, with the commandant of this place, Parve, who assures us, that the English and Russians are fighting against each other.—There is also a private letter from Beverwyk, stating that the Russians had revolted against their officers, and killed several of them, even, as it is said, their general, and that this was the cause of their precipitate retreat. What is very sure, is, that the Russian officers, prisoners of war, told us this morning, that two days past they had had no bread, and that great misunderstandings exist between them and the English.
ROTTERDAM, October 11. Advices from the armies all agree that the English begin to ship themselves, and that our troops are at Petten, and in the Zyp; that general Daendels last Wednesday entered Hoorn with his division; that the English in the night from Friday to Saturday evacuated the city of Enkhuysen, after having burnt the camels (machines to bring large ships over the shoals of the Pampus) and two Indiamen, and after having mostly emptied the magazine. October 15. While our last paper was in the press, we received letters from Paris of the 8th of October. Mostly all the newspapers, especially the so called official one, the Redacteur, say, that the telegraphe had reported that Suwarow was defeated and had lost 10,000 men. Private letters, however, do not confirm this, but relate, that the report is premature, Massena having only sent word that he was fighting, that Suwarow was defending himself furiously, and that he, Massena, thought he would certainly beat the Russians.
PARIS, October 7. Two couriers lately arrived here from Berlin; many believe, that the negotiations of the king of Prussia will at last succeed, and that those concerning Holland are in a good way. It is thought that Switzerland will be declared neutral. We hear that the Russian general Don, having understood that the prisoners of war taken in Holland should be transported into the interior of France, informed general Brune, that if his people were sent to Paris, he should send the prisoners in his power to Siberia.
Evacuation of Holland resolved on! LONDON, October 14—15. The Inspector Sloop of war, commanded by Capt. Lock, arrived yesterday afternoon (14) in Yarmouth Roads, from the Texel, whence she failed on Saturday afternoon. This vessel brings accounts that there had been skirmishing every day between our troops and the enemy, and that a kind of general action took place on Thursday last along the line, in which the enemy were repulsed.
Strong entrenchments, we understand, were thrown up at Ryck-Down, to cover, it was supposed, the embarkation of our forces, whenever such a measure should be resolved on.
When the Inspector left the Helder, it was currently reported there, that 25,000 Prussians had entered Holland; but the immediate object of this movement had not been ascertained.
A Cabinet Council was held yesterday (14) for the purpose of coming to a determination on the question of evacuating Holland. Col. Brownrigg attended, to make known to them all the particulars of the situation of the allied armies, and the result was, an ORDER FOR THEIR RE-EMBARKATION.
The Colonel and Sir Charles Hamilton set out for Holland with the order and instructions; the guards and other troops under orders for that country were countermanded, and measures are to be immediately taken to procure more vessels for the return of the army. Hopes are entertained, that as the Helder is capable of being strongly fortified, and as we have a number of gun-boats to flank the embarkation, it will be effected with little loss. It is the only thing for which we have now to be anxious.
It is rumoured that the French, on re-entering Alkmaar, after the retreat of our troops, burned it to the ground, probably for having opened its gates to the allies.
ZURICH, September 30. We are reconquered unto liberty, and accordingly the rights of conquest are used over us. The conquering general has imposed upon us a contribution of 800,000 francs, payment, the whole in 36 hours thereafter—in order to gild the pill, good reasons are alleged.—The soldier has not received his pay for 4 months—the army wants every thing, and it is more easy to put an imposition on the city of Zurich, than to force the French treasury to send funds. However, it is not on us alone that the contribution falls. The inhabitants of St. Gall are to pay a contribution of 400,000 francs.
Domestic Articles.
PHILADELPHIA, December 18. About nine o'clock last evening, a dreadful fire broke out in Ricketts' Circus, corner of Sixth and Chestnut-streets, which soon communicated to the adjacent buildings.—The Circus (which was built of wood) was soon entirely consumed, as was the large and elegant Hotel, in the tenure of Mr. James O'Ellers, in Chestnut-street. The fine row of new buildings in Sixth-street was very much damaged, and one or two of them nearly destroyed.
The wind blowing from the N. W. saved the New Theatre and the other opposite buildings. The fire was not entirely extinguished last evening, 12 o'clock.
We understand the fire commenced by an accident happening to the machinery during the performance of Don Juan, a Pantomime attended with extreme difficulty and hazard in its execution, and highly improper to be represented even with the most scrupulous attention to the combustibles necessarily used in the exhibition.
NEW-YORK, December 17. In addition to the important articles of European Intelligence received here last week, from St. Sebastians, and which were detailed in the Mercantile Advertiser of Saturday, we have to announce, that on the 4th and 6th days of October, two severe engagements took place between the contending armies in Holland, in both of which the Anglo-Russians were defeated.
In that of the 4th, the loss of the Anglo-Russians amounted to between 12 and 1500 killed and wounded;—amongst the latter, is Lord Chatham, severely. They retreated precipitately to Alkmaar, whither they were pursued by the successful army; and on the 6th at noon the action was renewed, and became general. The French availing themselves of the misunderstanding which existed between the Russians and the English, attacked them with vigour, and a general defeat was the consequence: the Anglo-Russians fled in every direction, leaving behind them their cannon, ammunition, &c. and even 200 women. The head-quarters of the French were established at Alkmaar the same day.
On the 7th the Duke of York made overtures to the French-Batavian Generals, offering to retire in a military manner.
On the 8th (the moment the express came away) orders were given to summon the combined army under his command to SURRENDER, WITHOUT DELAY, PRISONERS OF WAR.
Prior to the engagements, it is said, an English officer had been dispatched with a flag of truce to the Batavian General Daendels; but, either from private information previously received, or some suspicious conduct on the part of the messenger, orders were given to have him searched; and there being found upon his person proclamations from the Prince of Orange, tending to excite an insurrection in the Batavian army, he was immediately put under arrest.
[Our authority for the above intelligence is a Paris Journal of the 12th of October—which mentions, that the news was received at Paris at 12 o'clock, and announced to the citizens by the firing of cannon.]
Mr. MARSHALL.
When this gentleman first rose in Congress to speak, the following observations were made by a respectable person present; they give us a high opinion of Mr. Marshall's talents and influence. "The expectation which this great and useful man's reputation had excited, was fully answered. The federal phalanx will be found irresistible with a leader of such strength and prowess. For selection of apt and happy words, for logical reasoning, and for geometrical conclusions, Gen. Marshall is confessedly pre-eminent."
BOSTON, December 23.
Munroe is elected Governor of Virginia. The Jacobinical organization of that state is now completed.
The Sally, which arrived at Beverly from Bremen, brought dispatches for government from our council there.
William Cobbett, alias Peter Porcupine, has removed to New-York, where he intends recommencing his bookselling business. He promises shortly to publish the farewell number of Porcupine's Gazette.
The Marine Insurance Company of Baltimore have presented Capt. William Anderson, commander of the ship London Packet, a very elegant ornamented sword, and service of plate, in consideration of his brave defence of that valuable ship, against a French privateer of superior force.
The General Greene frigate, Capt. Perry, and Herald sloop of war, Lt. Russel, were lying at Cape Francois the 18th ult.
NEWPORT, December 17.
On Sunday evening last a ship from Cork bound to New-York put in here, after a passage of 51 days. She failed again early the next morning. A gentleman who was favoured by the Captain with a perusal of the Cork papers up to the 24th of October, informs us that they contained the official dispatches of the Duke of York, as published in the London Gazette Extra.
By which it appears, that there has been a general and hard-fought action since the one of the 2d and 3d of October, in which 500 English and 2000 Russians were killed and taken prisoners. In consequence of which the Duke of York (with the unanimous opinion of his council of war) has thought it expedient to withdraw. The French took possession of Alkmaar, and destroyed it.
It is further mentioned that the Duke of York would retire to the Helder, and secure and fortify himself there, till the determination of the English Cabinet was known as to the further prosecution of the campaign in Holland.
It is also said that a cabinet council was called on the 18th of October, when the Aid-de-camp of the Duke of York, who brought over the dispatches, attended, and that it was determined that Holland should be evacuated without delay.
Providence, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25.
However unpleasing the task, we are this day under the necessity of recording the death of that great and good man, GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. He departed this life on the 14th inst. at his seat at Mount-Vernon, after a very short illness, of an inflammation in his throat.
When the news of this affliction event first reached town, faint hopes were entertained that it might prove premature;—several letters were however received by the mail on Monday evening (among others, one from the Hon. Theodore Foster, Esq.) and likewise a handbill printed at New-York on Thursday evening the 19th inst. which give a melancholy confirmation of it.
“DEATH, ere thou hast slain another, “WISE, and GREAT, and GOOD, as HE, “Time shall throw his dart at thee.”
The Legislature of Pennsylvania is nearly equally divided—38 Irish and German democrats, and 37 American Republicans.
Capt. Thompson, of the brig Eliza, arrived at New-York, mentions, that a seaman had been hung on board the United States brig Pickering, at St. Kitts, for killing the steward.
The Traveller, arrived at Baltimore from Jamaica, it is said, brings 173,000 dollars specie.
Dr. Benjamin Rush, of Philadelphia, has recovered the sum of 5000 dollars of William Cobbett, alias Peter Porcupine, on an action for slander.
Nabal Register.
The Trumbull arrived at New-London, on Tuesday afternoon, the 10th inst. She will be equipped for sea with all possible dispatch.
The Chesapeake, of 44 guns, was safely launched at Gosport, Virginia, on the 28th of November. She is to be commanded by Capt. Barron, who has just returned from a cruise in the Constellation, of which Capt. Truxton has resumed the command. The Constellation received much injury in a gale of wind during her last cruise, and when she arrived in Hampton-Roads had 4 feet of water in her hold.
Mr. CARTER.
By inserting the following queries in your next paper, you will much oblige yours, THE HERMIT.
IS the appropriation of the monies in the treasury of the State of Rhode-Island, under the direction of the keeper of said treasury, or the legislature of said State?
If it is under the latter, why are their orders refused payment at the treasury, by the treasurer, when there are monies more than sufficient for that purpose?
Is it adding any thing to the honour, dignity or interest of said State, to have its orders protested by the treasurer?
Died.
At Newport, universally regretted, Doctor ISAAC SENTER, a very eminent Physician.—After a very short illness, Mr. OLIVER W. WARNER, in the 28th year of his age. At Savannah, on the 19th ult. Major JOHN HABERHAM, Collector of the Customs for that port, aged 45 years.
At New-York, Mrs. ELIZABETH HATTRICK, wife of Mr. Peter Hattrick, merchant.
At Charleston (S. C.) Capt. SIMON TUFTS, aged 78 years, a gentleman of respectable character, and formerly a resident in this town.
Port of Providence.
ENTERED.
Sloop Friendship, Justin, New-York; brig Polly, Cooke, St. Christopher; sloop Hancock, Crapon, New-York; brig Sally, Greenman, Havana; sloop Hiram, Graves, St. Thomas; sloop Lydia, Potter, Havana; sloop Sally, Crapon, New-York.
CLEARED.
Sloop Somerset, Eddy, Somerset; schooner Jolly Robbins, Cook, Havana; schooner Commerce, Mawney, St. Croix; ship Neptune, Hicks, Savannah.
Sunday last arrived the sloop Hiram, Graves, from St. Thomas. Left there Nov. 30, in company with the Schooner Beaver, Moody, for Portland; Schooner Rice, for New-York; and a Danish Schooner, Brown, for New-York, under convoy of the English letter of marque ship Julia, Capt. Wright, whose disinterested and polite attention deserves this public acknowledgment. Left at St. Thomas the brig William and Thomas, of Wisecasset, the late Capt. Nutter, master; who departed this life 26th of November at 3 A. M. For the benefit of those concerned, Capt. G. was requested to publish the following, viz.
That on her outward bound passage, the brig William and Thomas, Nutter, was captured by a French cruiser, who put 9 Frenchmen on board, leaving Capt. Nutter, his son, a youth of about 16, and 2 men, on board the brig. Finding the French had nearly gained their port, and no prospect of being retaken, Capt. Nutter proposed attempting to retake his vessel, which was readily acquiesced in by his son and the 2 hands, and effected after a short contest, without loss of lives, and but little bloodshed; and the vessel carried safe into St. Thomas. On the death of the Capt. whose illness was but short, the judge took the brig into custody, together with the proceeds of her cargo, to the amount of about 3000 dollars, there being no person there authorized to claim the property.
Capt. G. parted with the Schooner Beaver, Capt. Moody, in about lat. 29, and long. 73: 30.
CINCINNATI.
THE brethren of the Rhode-Island State Society of Cincinnati, are requested to wear the usual badge of mourning, thirty days, from Sunday the 29th inst. as a mark of respect for their late President, Doctor ISAAC SENTER, deceased.
ROBERT ROGERS, Sec'ry.
Newport, December 23.
THIS Day's JOURNAL completes one Year from its first Publication. The Editor tenders his grateful Acknowledgments, with the Compliments of the Season, to those who have generously countenanced his Undertaking—assuring them, that no exertions shall be spared to render the JOURNAL worthy of general Patronage.—He presents his best Thanks to all who have complied with the Terms of Subscription, and respectfully solicits those who are in Arrear, to make Payment.
The JOURNAL will continue to be published once a Week, as heretofore.
Valuable LANDS for Sale.
FOR Sale, in lots of 100, 200, 300 and 400 acres, a body of very valuable LANDS, equal in point of soil, situation and advantages of water carriage, to any lands in the United States. The soil has been proved, and is found, on cultivation, to be very fertile in wheat, rye, indian corn, potatoes, and other excellent vegetables. The lands are situated in the county of Lucerne, and state of Pennsylvania, within 7 miles of a river which is navigable to the sea for boats of considerable burthen; and large rafts of timber, from settlements on the same river many miles above these lands, are in the proper season of the year sent to Baltimore, Havre-de-Grace, and other places. The lands are about 170 miles north of Philadelphia, 60 miles west of Poughkeepsie, on the North River, and about 240 on a direct west course from Providence. The canal from the mouth of the Susquehannah, which it is expected will soon be accomplished, will afford a direct water carriage from the landings near this tract to Philadelphia.
The lands are surrounded by settlements on all sides; those of Chenango are about 30 miles to the northward. Several families from this state purchased and moved on to a part of these lands the last spring. The subscribers have erected a grist-mill on the premises, for the accommodation of settlers. The whole tract is well wooded throughout, having little or no underbrush. There is a sufficient quantity of the sugar maple, and of white ash, to afford a permanent supply of sugar and fencing. The land is not stony, rocky or mountainous, nor is it flat or level, but diversified with hills and valleys, just sufficient to ensure its salubrity.
The inhabitants who have been settled in its neighbourhood for several years, have experienced the climate to be very healthy, and the winters moderate. The lands are well watered, having several good mill-streams, and a considerable quantity of natural meadow, sufficient, in the opinion of good judges, to support 100 head of cattle winter and summer. The whole tract has been surveyed, and divided into lots of 200 acres, but will be sold in such quantities as will best suit the purchasers; or some of it will be leased, if desired.
Real estate in Providence or its vicinity will be received in exchange for a part of it, on reasonable terms. The title is clear and indisputable, and deeds with warranty will be executed unto the purchasers by the subscribers; by enquiring of whom, it will be found that the lands now offered for sale are really inviting to all desirous of settling in a fertile and healthy country, and that the terms, both with respect to credit and price, are very moderate.
Persons desirous of purchasing, are requested to apply soon, as the tract for sale is not large, containing only about twelve thousand acres.
BENJAMIN BOURN, in Bristol. BROWN and IVES, in Providence. December 25.
John Mason and Sons
Offer for sale, for cash or credit, very low, 12 Hhds. of Old St. Croix RUM 16 Hhds. of Barbadoes Sugar, of a superior quality.
They are in want of a quantity of 12 feet oak joist, 1 inch oak boards, and half inch chestnut boards, for which cash will be given. December 25.
Wanted, by the Subscriber,
AS an apprentice to the dry goods business, a smart, active LAD, of good family, 14 or 16 years of age.
WILLIAM BLUDGET, jun.
December 25.
A Carpenter and a Sail-Maker, WANTED for the frigate Congress, JAMES SEVER, Esq. commander, now lying in the harbour of Newport. Apply to GIBBS and CHANNING. Newport, December 21.
GEORGE THOMAS and JACOB CHRISTOPHER,
Ladies and Gentlemen's attentive Hair-Dressers, INFORM the Public, that they continue business at their usual stand, next door south of Mr. AMIDON's Golden-Ball Inn.
Maugre that Messrs. Thomas and Christopher are not indoctrinated in the turgid and bombastical phraseology of certain travelled Peruquiers, or vested in that efflorescent, decorated verborosity, and those brilliant rhetorical je-ne-sçai-quoi's wherewith some do affect to retail out the sweets of ancient and modern literature; yet in all the various modes and forms of shaving, hair-dressing, wig-making, perfuming, &c. &c. &c. they design not to resign the palm to any human essece or existence, either on this terrequeous ball, or throughout the whole illimitable, undeterminable immensity of space.
Ladies and Gentlemen waited upon at their own houses, with exquisite pleasure, however distant, and all the arcana of tonsofing exhibited in a style truly enchanting. December 25.

Selected Poetry.
ODE
For CHRISTMAS DAY.
WHAT glowing beams the Heavens adorn! What music hails the rising morn! What angel songs are these! Hark! the loud notes from golden lyres, Attun'd to Seraphs glowing fires, Proclaim "the Prince of Peace!" Is. ix. 6.
In strains like these, the wondrous plan Of peace and pardon seal'd to man, The opening heavens proclaim; Bid earth rejoicing own the God John i. 10. JESUS! at whose awful nod Arose her beauteous frame, Heb. i. 2.
In empty realms of light, Grown vocal with the new delight Angelic natures know. To God be glory!—God is love!— Lo peace and mercy smiling move, To dwell with men below!
The long expected morn is come, By prophets rising in the tomb, By hallowed lips reveal'd! He comes; ye nations, own your Lord! The God! by heavenly hosts ador'd, In human flesh conceal'd! John i. 14.
Glad earth prepares her choicest sweets, With od'rous gifts IMMANUEL greets, By prostrate kings ador'd; The symbol of his wide-spread sway O'er nations rising into day, At light's pervading word. 2. Cor. iv. 6.
The desert wilds with roses bloom, From thorns new odours shed perfume, Whose fragrance fills the skies; Majestic mountains bow their head, With Syria's lofty cedars spread; And lowly vallies rise. Is. xxxv.
New springs the thirsty plains o'erflow, In the soft bonds of concord go The lion and the pard With timid lambs; the tyger's led In silken bands, by infants fed; So sung the raptur'd bard. Is. xi. 6.
Oh, for the lyre of Israel's king! To rapture waking every string, When mercy's themes inspire, Pf. cx. 45. To hail the Saviour's natal morn, Whose "Rays of Righteousness" adorn Mal. iv. 2. This prophet's hallowed fire.
From Israel's pastor king, whose fold Confess'd a shepherd's care of old, 1. Sam. xvii. 34. Shall earth's salvation spring; Again glad tidings shepherds bear, Luke ii. 8. Seraphic melody first hear, And hail the new-born king.
He, who this tender name shall bear, Ezek. xxxvii. 24. "The world's great shepherd," nations hear, John x. 16. His cheering voice obey! Who feeds you with a shepherd's love, With light below, with life above, John i. 14. In one eternal day!
Why doth not Israel own her God? John i. 4. Who bears the royal Judah's rod, Whom all the prophet's sing: Levi! behold the Virgin's son, Is. vii. 14. Elias see before him run, Is. xl. 3. Proclaiming Israel's King! Matt. xxiv. 1.
Oh Solyma! thy sons no more In the bright portals shall adore, Once heav'n's adopted race: No more in spire columns rise Thine altars' incense to the skies, Circling the throne of grace.
A race more lov'd shall now impart Truths that shall purify the heart, Thy shadowy forms deface; Through the glad isles the tidings bear, Which Israel's sons refus'd to hear, "The healing voice of Peace." John xiv. 27.
* Her banners o'er their heads shall wave, Faith's shield be theirs, so strong to save, Whose adamant confound The blunted arrows of the foe, The daring infidel would throw As fiery bolts around.
Salvation's helm be theirs! Divine With "rays of righteousness" shall shine The heav'n-defended breast; Their's be the Spirit's flaming sword, The holy oracles, whose word Shall guide the soul to rest.
Such powers, Almighty God, are thine! Illumine still with grace divine Thy vot'ries hearts; and give What thou alone canst give to man, And seal'd by thy redeeming plan, "Within thy courts to live."
In choral hymns let myriads join Their mortal strains with songs divine O'er earth's remotest plains: Oh loudly let this Pean rise! For ever rend the vocal skies, "The great MESSIAH reigns."
* "Hoc signo vinces,"—the motto on Constantine's standard.
From the (N.Y.) COMMERCIAL ADVERTISER.
The Itinerant Preacher.
***** "He sent to his princes, even to Benhail, and to Obediah, and to Zechariah, and to Nathaniel, and to Michiah, to TEACH in the cities of Judah."
AMONG the various concerns which claim the attention of government, few are more interesting than EDUCATION. Conscious of this, Jehoshaphat, immediately upon his ascension to the throne, after having reconciled the distracted affairs of Judah, sent Teachers into the cities, to enlighten the mind and improve the heart of his subjects. He also sent Priests and Levites, to instruct in doctrinal and moral subjects. The instructions of Jehoshaphat were attended with happy success. Judah, under his reign, became united, wealthy and powerful. She commanded veneration, respect and homage, from all the neighbouring nations. Her mighty men of valour were increased to one million one hundred and sixty thousand; her castles and ware-houses multiplied, and all her affairs flourished under the auspices of a king who patronized letters.
In tracing the history of governments, we find those most prosperous and happy, who have bestowed most labour in cultivating the arts and sciences. Liberty is the offspring of refinement, the fair daughter of literature. Wherever learning flourishes, there liberty will erect her standard.
Various have been the attempts, and unwearied the endeavours of many, to found in this country a national institution, for the instruction of youth; but all have failed through the want of that efficacy, which can only be derived from our national legislature. If we peruse the public speeches of our chief magistrate, we cannot believe, that he is unmindful of the interests of literature. "Science and morals, lays he, are the great pillars upon which this country has been raised to its present population, opulence and prosperity, and these alone can advance, support and preserve it." These are assertions to which every candid mind will subscribe. The President has taken occasion to invite the attention of Congress to this subject, more than once; but it is to be lamented, his invitations have not, in this respect, met with compliance. No instructors have been sent forth by them, to teach in our cities.
While Congress have been active and vigilant to encourage labour, animate industry and protect commerce, by establishing a mint, building cities, erecting forts, creating a navy and organizing an army, the interest of literature has past unnoticed. The important concern of educating and disciplining citizens, has not been deemed of consequence sufficient to merit legislative consideration. At present no teachers instruct in our cities under the direction and patronage of government; but parents, tutors and pupils, are at liberty to study that "which seemeth right in their own eyes." Hence parents are unable to procure good schools, and their children have not the opportunity of liberal improvement: For, teachers being under no legal restrictions, feel no great degree of professional responsibility—any man being permitted to teach, without discrimination or even qualification; many have undertaken who were unfit to be employed, being themselves moral heretics, and aliens to the commonwealth of letters, have rendered the profession of a school-master contemptible.
"While quacks and empirics so well succeed, Professional worth at every pore must bleed."
True we have some teachers illustrating the remarks of Epaminondas, who said that "no office could give dignity to him who held it; but that he who held it might give dignity to any office;" yet these instances are rare, for men are more frequently governed by ambition than by disinterested and patriotic motives. 'Tis difficult to find at the present day, an example equalling the stern virtues of Plutarch; who when commissioner of sewers and public buildings, was contented with the employment, considering that in things of this nature, the public utility takes off the disgrace; that the meaner the office he sustained, the greater was the compliment he paid to the public. We find, however, few Plutarchs at present. Men are actuated by motives of a different complexion.
An ambitious desire of opulence has long prompted the world to give the preference to those offices which are productive of the greatest emolument and power; and unfortunately for society, these too often give the only prescriptive claim to respectability and worth—while those who are engaged in business less productive, though equally useful, have but a slender title to that respect and esteem which is ever grateful to the feeling heart. The only consolation that can support the feelings of a neglected and disrespected citizen, who is useful and industrious, is a consciousness that the paths of virtue, though hedged with thorns and briars, are nevertheless bestrewed with mental joys and satisfaction, leading directly to the gates of felicity.
There is no axiom in Euclid more true, than that the profession which is most respected and patronized, will be most cheerfully embraced and pursued. It will be honoured with the first talents, and dignified with the most distinguished characters. For public patronage and approbation are the most powerful incentives to activity, fidelity and perseverance. They command the improved heart, and call into action the noblest energies of the enlightened mind.
It will therefore ever merit the attention of the legislator, in regulating professions, to demand acquirements in proportion to the duties devolved upon the candidate in the functions of his office. Merit then will constitute the true distinction, and real worth have its share of patronage.
Were attorneys and physicians admitted to practice without legislative controul, or any previous clerkship, their professions would no doubt soon sink into public contempt; but re-
gulated by the legislature, the bar or the faculty, they are respectable. Will any citizen believe that either of these professions are more valuable than that of a teacher? How is it then, that the former are respected and the latter disregarded? I answer, because men of every description, kindred, tongue and nation, are promiscuously employed to teach in our capital cities!
THE ITINERANT PREACHER.
Prince G. Wright,
Ladies' and Gentlemen's fashionable Hair-Dresser. THE Subscriber, in manner the most profoundly respectful, informs the ladies and gentlemen of Providence, and its vicinity, that he still continues business at the old stand, a few doors south of Messrs. Joseph Healy and Co. opposite Mr. Nathan Angell's. By a happy natural talent, and unrivalled attentive application, he has highly improved upon the before masterly style of hair-dressing.
Appearances being the criterion by which most opinions are formed, Mr. W. is supremely happy in announcing his complete ability of transforming, by his all skilful hand, the unpolished to pleasing, mediocrity to desirable, and the agreeable to all that's bewitchingly fascinating. In obtaining the necessary auxiliaries of dress, especial care is taken to procure only those of kinds and flavour exquisitely superior. The sweets of every ancient and modern work of note have been culled, to enable Mr. W. agreeably to amuse his customers, while under the operations of dress—a happy selection, added to a natural fascinating laconic manner of relation, places Mr. W. at the summit of excellence. The eye also may be agreeably and instructively amused, by a rare and valuable collection of prints, at a vast expence procured, from the hands of those celebrated masters of antiquity, Reubens, Raphael and Hogarth, on subjects religious, demirepals, hieroglyphical, pastoral, caricatural and fancy pieces. Jocular converse frequently giving rise to remarks satirical, which by a second communicated, often causing disastrous circumstances, Mr. W. is resolved to continue deferring the credit given him for his taciturnity, and carefully in his own breast to se-pulchre the knowledge of every information of this nature. All these circumstances united, dressing under the hands of Mr. W. must be sought and esteemed a pleasing pastime rather than a toil.
Ladies and gentlemen waited upon at their own houses—wigs made for either, in the newest and best manner, and at moderate prices. Mr. W.'s European correspondence continued as usual, and the earliest information obtained of every fashionable change.
Recently arrived, a variety of TASTY ALTERNATIONS. The public's devoted PRINCE G. WRIGHT, L. G. F. H. D. December 11.
Benjamin Thurber
Has just received a handsome assortment of G O O D S, Suitable to the season, which are now for Sale, at his Store, at the Sign of the Bunch of Grapes. Please to call and see them.
AMONG THEM ARE, SCARLET, crimson, blue and London brown broadcloths; London brown, blue and green ferges; forest cloth, lamb-skin and coating, very cheap; swandown, nankenees, florentines, fergedenims, crimson, scarlet and green baizes; blankets, black, yellow, red and white English flannels; moreens, russels, plain and striped calimancoes, durants, shaloon, plain and striped wildbores, bengals, crapes, dimities, muslinets, India cottons, a great variety of muslins, lappets, Irish linen, sheeting ditto, towcloth, bedtickling, yellow canvas, cambricks, lawns, a large assortment of camels hair, silk and chintz shawls; black Barce-lona and bandano handkerchiefs; a variety of fancy patches, chinizes and calicoes; English and India lustrings of various colours; English and India fatins of all widths, modes and many other silks for bonnets, silver grey, Persians, long and short silk gloves, a great variety of black and white laces, fashionable ribbons, white and coloured kid gloves, mens and ladies hose, a fresh assortment of womens Morocco and florentine shoes, mens womens and boys furr hats, muffs, furr trimmings, house paper, writing ditto.
Brafs kettles, warming pans, candlesticks, London and Bristol pewter, knives and forks, shovels and tongs, metal tea pots, patent lamps, elastic needles, sadirons, bellows, coffee mills, looking glasses, glass, China, Liverpool and Delf ware; cotton and wool cards.
Hylon and bohea tea, by the dozen, warranted; pepper, cinnamon, nutmegs, ginger, mustard, Spanish float and French Indigo, warranted; long and short pipes, per groce, salt petre by the pound or dozen.
Molasses, sugar, coffee, best Boston chocolate and shells, raisins, flour, cod fish, with many other articles, very cheap for cash only. Nov. 13. 10 w.
For SALE by Pitts and Chedel,
At their store, opposite the store of Amos Atwell, Esq.; GOOD Surinam Molasses, by the hoghead Sugar, by the hoghead and barrel Bohea Tea, by the chest Hylon and Souchong, by the dozen or smaller quantity A few hogheads of good Rum. October 23. (t. f.)
WANTED, A JOURNEYMAN TAILOR. One who understands his business will receive good wages. Likewise wanted, A LAD, about 13 or 14 years of age, as an Apprentice to the Tailoring business.—Apply to JOSEPH TABER. Dec. 18.
For SALE, by Wanton Steer, Opposite the Long Wharf. THE best kind of MOLASSES, SUGAR and COFFEE, from Cape-Francois, in hogheads, barrels and bags, on the lowest terms for cash or short credit. December 11.
For SALE, by Amos Maine Atwell, CONNECTICUT Salted Provisions of the best Qualities, and in excellent shipping order, viz. Prime Beef, Prime Pork, Mefs Pork, and one Hog pork.—Also, 20 Firkins of Butter, 7000 feet 1 1-4 inch seasoned hard Pine Boards, 2000 feet 2 inch Pine Plank, 700 feet 1 inch cherry-tree Boards, Two thousand Clapboards. The above Goods are offered for sale on terms highly favourable to the purchaser. ALSO, 15 Puncheons Jamaica Spirits, of the first flavour and quality, which will reduce 33 1-3 per centum. (t. f.) October 30.
ALL persons having any demands against the estate of EBENEZER JENCKES, late of Providence, merchant, deceased, represented insolvent, are hereby notified to exhibit the same for allowance, within six months from the date hereof, to the subscribers, who are duly appointed commissioners to receive and examine the same. JOHN ROGERS, RICHARD JACKSON, jun. YOUNG SEAMANS. All persons indebted to said estate, are requested to make payment to DAVID LEONARD BARNES, Adm'r. Prov. Dec. 2.
Just Published, And for sale by J. CARTER, at the Printing-Office opposite the Market, wholesale and retail,
The NEW-ENGLAND ALMANACK, OR Lady's and Gentleman's DIARY, for the Year of our Lord 1800. By ISAAC BICKERSTAFF, Philom. Containing, besides the usual astronomical calculations and tables (which are very accurate) a variety of useful and entertaining matter.—The author, in his preface, gives a concise account of the old and new styles, reasons for abolishing the old style, and why there cannot be another Leap-Year till 1804.
Cooley's genuine Pills, Prepared by Samuel Cooley, of Bolton, State of Connecticut, And secured to him by letters patent, signed by the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES, and dated at Philadelphia, the 26th day of June, A. D. 1798, agreeable to an act of Congress.
THEY are justly esteemed for their easy operation and good effects; they are a most certain remedy for the Jaundice, Rheumatism, Erysipelas, Gravel, Piles, Scurvy, Dizziness of the Head, Pain in the Stomach and Bowels; they are an antidote against infectious diseases; and are, taking two or three early in the morning, a great preservative against contagious air, remove obstructions of any kind, by dissolving and discharging the morbid matter, help digestion, restore a lost appetite, a sure relief for costive habits; decayed constitutions are removed by a thorough use of the above Pills.
They are found by experience to be the most safe and easy physic of any composition yet known: Persons under weak circumstances may take them with safety and not find themselves made weaker, as is common to other physic. They are to be taken twice in a day, two in the morning and one at night, more or less, so as to cause one or two movements of the body more than usual; let the patient fast one hour, then eat, drink and exercise as he pleases.
N. B. There is no Mercury in the above Pills. Sold by JOHN POPE, Providence. August 21. (t. f.)
Forty Dollars Reward.
DESERTED on the night of the 20th ult. from the ship Tyre, Samuel Brown, master, a seaman named BENJAMIN BUTLER, about six feet high, dark complexion, pitted with the small-pox; and a man by the name of ISAAC LEWIS, who said that he was from Connecticut, about five feet ten inches in height.—He was dressed in a brown short jacket, and green striped trowsers—they took with them some of their comrades' clothes, and the ship's yawl, and are supposed to have gone towards Boston. A reward of forty dollars, and all necessary charges, will be paid by the subscribers to any person who will secure them both in Providence gaol, or twenty dollars for either of them. SAMUEL C. ARNOLD and Co. Providence, December 4.