Herald of the United States (Warren, R.I.), 1807-02-07 00:00:00

Gerald of the United States.
WARREN:—PUBLISHED NEAR THE POST-OFFICE, BY NATHANIEL PHILLIPS.
[No. 16, of Vol. XV.]
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 1807.
[Whole No. 744.]
WEEKLY ALMANACK.
   FEBRUARY. P. O. St. Louis. Sea. REMARKS.     8 Sunday, 6 56 6 33 9 10   9 Monday, 6 55 6 31 9 52   10 Tuesday, 6 53 6 29 10 32   11 Wednesday, 6 52 6 27 11 14   12 Thursday, 6 50 6 26 11 57 [22m.   13 Friday, 6 49 6 24 12 42 Day's len. 10h.   14 Saturday, 6 48 6 23 1 30  
WASHINGTON, JAN. 23.
MESSAGE
OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES,
Containing a DEVELOPEMENT of the CONSPIRACY.
To the Senate, and House of Representatives, &c.
AGREEABLY to the request of the House of Representatives, communicated in their resolution of the 16th inst., I proceed to state under the reference therein expressed, information received touching an illegal combination of private individuals against the peace and safety of the union, and a military expedition planned by them against the territories of a power in amity with the United States, with the measures I have pursued for suppressing the same.
I had, for some time, been in the constant expectation of receiving such further information as would have enabled me to lay before the legislature the termination, as well as the beginning and progress of this scene of depravity, so far as it has been acted on the Ohio and its waters. From this the state of safety of the lower country might have been estimated on probable grounds, and the delay was indulged the rather, because no circumstance had yet made it necessary to call in the aid of the legislative functions. Information now recently communicated, has brought us nearly to the period contemplated. The mass of what I have received in the course of these transactions is voluminous: but little has been given under the sanction of an oath, so as to constitute formal and legal evidence. It is chiefly in the form of letters, often containing such a mixture of rumours, conjectures and suspicions, as renders it difficult to fix on the real facts, and inadvisable to hazard more than general outlines, strengthened by concurrent information, or the particular credibility of the relator. In this state of the evidence, delivered sometimes too under the restriction of private confidence, neither safety nor justice will permit the exposing names, except that of the principal actor, whose guilt is placed beyond question.
Some time in the latter part of September, I received intimations that designs were in agitation in the Western country, unlawful and unfriendly to the peace of the union: and that the prime mover in these was AARON BURR, heretofore distinguished by the favor of his country. The grounds of these intimations being inconclusive, the objects uncertain, and the fidelity of that country known to be firm, the only measure taken was to urge the informants to use their best endeavors to get further insight into the designs and proceedings of the suspected persons, and to communicate them to me.
It was not till the latter part of October that the objects of the conspiracy began to be perceived, but still so blended and involved in mystery that nothing distinct could be singled out for pursuit. In this state of uncertainty, as to the crime contemplated, the acts done, and the legal course to be pursued, I thought it best to lead to the scene, where these things were principally in transaction, a person in whose integrity, understanding and discretion, entire confidence could be reposed, with instructions to investigate the plots going on, to enter into conference (for which he had sufficient credentials) with the governors, and all other officers, civil and military, and with their aid, to do on the spot whatever should be necessary to discover the designs of the conspirators, arrest their means, bring their persons to punishment, and to call out the force of the country to suppress any unlawful enterprise, in which it should be found they were engaged. By this time it was known that many boats were under preparation, stores of provisions collecting, and an unusual number of suspicious characters in motion on the Ohio, and its waters. Besides dispatching the confidential agent to that quarter, orders were at the same time sent to the governors of the Orleans and Mississippi territories, and to the commanders of the land and naval forces there, to be on their guard against surprise, and in constant readiness to resist any enterprise which might be attempted on the vessels, posts or other objects under their care: and on the 8th of November, instructions were forwarded to Gen. WILKINSON to hasten an accommodation with the Spanish commandant on the Sabine, and as soon as that was effected, to fall back with his principal force to the higher bank on the Mississippi, for the defence of the interesting points on that river. By a letter received from that officer of the 25th of Nov. but dated October, 21st, we learnt that a confidential agent of AARON BURR had been despatched to him with communications, partly writ-
ten in cypher, and partly oral, explaining his designs, exaggerating his resources, and making such offers of emolument and command, to engage him and the army in his unlawful enterprise, as he had flattered himself would be successful. The General, with the honor of a soldier, and fidelity of a good citizen, immediately despatched a trusty officer to me with information of what had passed, proceeded to establish such an understanding with the Spanish commandant on the Sabine as permitted him to withdraw his force across the Mississippi, and to enter on measures for opposing the projected enterprise.
The General's letter which came to hand on the 25th of November, as has been mentioned, and some other information, received a few days earlier, when brought together, developed BURR's general designs, different parts of which only had been revealed to different informants. It appeared that he contemplated two distinct objects, which might be carried on either jointly or separately, and either the one or the other first as circumstances should direct. One of these was the severance of the union of these states by the Allegheny mountains, the other an attack on Mexico. A third object was provided, merely ostensible, to wit, the settlement of the pretended purchase of a tract of country on the Washita, claimed by a BARON BASTROP. This was to serve as the pretext for all his preparations, an allure for such followers as really wished to acquire settlements in that country and a cover under which to retreat in the event of a final disappointment of both branches of his real design.
He found at once that the attachment of the western country to the present union was not to be shaken; that its dissolution could not be effected with the consent of its inhabitants; and that his resources were inadequate, as yet, to effect it by force. He took his course then at once, determined to seize on New Orleans, plunder the bank there, possess himself of the military and naval stores, and proceed on his expedition to Mexico, and to this object all his means and preparations were now directed. He collected from all the quarters where himself, or his agents possessed influence, all the ardent, restless, desperate and dissatisfied persons who were ready for any enterprise analogous to their characters. He seduced good and well meaning citizens, some by assurances that he possessed the confidence of the government, and was acting under its secret patronage; a presence which procured some credit from the state of our differences with Spain; and others by offers of land in BASTROP's claim on the Washita.
This was the state of my information of his proceedings about the last of November; at which time therefore it was first possible to take specific measures to meet them. The proclamation of November 27, two days after the receipt of General WILKINSON's information, was now issued. Orders were despatched to every interesting point on the Ohio and Mississippi, from Pittsburgh to New Orleans, for the employment of such force, either of the regulars or of the militia, and of such proceedings also of the civil authorities, as might enable them to seize on all boats and stores provided for the enterprise, to arrest the persons concerned, and to suppress effectually the further progress of the enterprise. A little before the receipt of these orders in the state of Ohio, our confidential agent, who had been diligently employed in investigating the conspiracy, had acquired sufficient information to open himself to the Governor of that state, and to apply for the immediate exertion of the authority and power of the state to crush the combination. Governor TIFIN and the legislature, with a promptitude, an energy and patriotic zeal, which entitle them to a distinguished place in the affection of their sister states, effected the seizure of all the boats, provisions and other preparations within their reach, and thus gave a first blow, materially disabling the enterprise in its outlet.
In Kentucky a premature attempt to bring BURR to justice, without sufficient evidence for his conviction, had produced a popular impression in his favor, and a general disbelief of his guilt. This gave him an unfortunate opportunity of hastening his equipments. The arrival of the proclamation and orders, and the application and information of our confidential agent, at length awakened the authorities of that state to the truth, and then produced the same promptitude and energy of which the neighbouring state had set the example. Under an act of their legislature of December 23, militia was instantly ordered to different important points, and measures taken for doing whatever could yet be done. Some boats (accounting vary from five to double or treble that number) and persons (differently estimated from one to three hundred) had in the mean time passed the falls of Ohio to rendezvous at the mouth of Cumberland, with others expected down that river. Not apprised till very late that any boats were building on Cumberland, the effect of the proclamation had been trussed to for some time in the state of Tennessee. But on the 19th of December, similar communications and instructions, with those to the neighbouring states, were despatched by express to
the Governor, and a general officer of the western division of the state, and on the 23rd of December, our confidential agent left Frankfort for Nashville to put into activity the means of that state also. But by information received yesterday, I learn that on the 23rd December, Mr. BURR descended the Cumberland with two boats, merely of accommodation, carrying with him from that state no quota towards his unlawful enterprise. Whether after the arrival of the proclamation, of the orders, or of our agent, any exertion which could be made by that state, or the orders of the Governor of Kentucky for calling out the militia at the mouth of Cumberland, would be in time to arrest these boats, and those from the falls of Ohio, is still doubtful.
On the whole of the fugitives from the Ohio, with their associates from Cumberland, or any other place in that quarter, cannot threaten serious danger to the city of New Orleans.
By the same express of December 19, orders were sent to the Governors of Orleans and Mississippi, supplementary to those which had been given on the 25th of November, to hold the militia of their territories in readiness to co-operate for their defence with the regular troops and armed vessels then under command of General WILKINSON. Great alarm indeed was excited at New Orleans by the exaggerated accounts of Mr. BURR, disseminated through his emissaries, of the arms and natives he was to assemble there. General WILKINSON had arrived there himself on the 24th of November, and had immediately put into activity the resources of the place for the purpose of its defence, and on the 10th of December he was joined by his troops from the Sabine. Great zeal was shown by the inhabitants generally; the merchants of the place readily agreeing to the most laudable exertions and sacrifices for manning the armed vessels with their seamen; and the other citizens manifesting unequivocal fidelity to the union, and a spirit of determined resistance to their expected assailants.
Surmises have been hazarded that this enterprise is to receive aid from certain foreign powers. But these surmises are without proof or probability. The wisdom of the measures sanctioned by Congress at its last session, has placed us in the paths of peace and justice with the only powers with whom we had any differences; and nothing has happened since, which makes it either their interest or ours to pursue another course. No change of measures has taken place on our part, none ought to take place at this time. With the one, friendly arrangement was then proposed, and the law, deemed necessary on failure of that, was suspended to give time for a fair trial of the issue. With the same power, friendly arrangement is now proceeding, under good expectations, and the same law, deemed necessary on failure of that, is still suspended to give time for a fair trial of the issue. With the other negotiation was in like manner preferred, and provisional measures only taken to meet the event of rupture. While therefore we do not desist in the slightest degree from the course we then assumed, and are still pursuing, with mutual consent, to restore a good understanding, we are not to impede to them practices as irreconcilable to interest as to good faith, and changing necessarily the relations of peace and justice between us to those of war. These surmises are therefore to be imputed to the妄妄ings of the author of this enterprise, to multiply his partisans, by magnifying the belief of his prospects and support.
By letters from General WILKINSON of the 14th and 18th of December, which came to hand two days after the date of the resolution of the House of Representatives, that is to say, on the morning of the 18th inst. I received the important affidavit, a copy of which I now communicate, with extracts of so much of the letters as comes within the scope of the resolution. By these it will be seen that of three of the principal emissaries of Mr. BURR, whom the general had caused to be apprehended, one had been liberated by Habeas Corpus, and two others, being those particularly employed in the endeavor to corrupt the General and army of the United States, have been embarked by him for ports in the Atlantic States, probably on the consideration that an impartial trial could not be expected during the present agitations of New Orleans, and that that city was not as yet a safe place of confinement. As soon as these persons shall arrive, they will be delivered to the custody of the law, and left to such course of trial, both as to place and process, as its functionaries may direct. The presence of the highest judicial authorities, to be assembled at this place within a few days, the means of pursuing a sounder course of proceedings here than elsewhere, and the aid of the Executive means, should the judges have occasion to use them, render it equally desirable for the criminal, as for the public, that, being already removed from the place where they were first apprehended, the first regular arrest should take place here, and the course of proceedings receive here their proper direction.
TH: JEFFERSON.
January 23, 1807.
Extra of a letter from Gen. JAMES WILKINSON, dated New Orleans, Dec. 14, 1806.
"After several consultations with the governor and judges, touching the arrest and confinement of certain known agents and emissaries of Col. BURR, in this city and territory, whose intrigues and machinations were to be apprehended, it is with their privity and approbation that I have caused three of them to be arrested, viz. Doctor ERICK BOLLMAN, SAMUEL SWARTWOUT, and PETER V. OGDEN, against whom I possess strong facts, and I have recommended to the governor to have JAMES ALEXANDER, Esq. taken up on the grounds of strong suspicion. These persons and all others, who, by their character and deportment may be considered hostile to the interests of the United States or dangerous to this feeble frontier, under the menacing aspect of things from above, will, if my influence can prevail, be seized and sent by sea to the United States, subject to the disposition of government, and accompanied by such information as may justify their confinement, and furnish a clue to the development of the grounds, progress and projectors of the treasonable enterprise in which they are engaged.
"This letter will accompany Doctor BOLLMAN, who is to be this day embarked in a vessel bound for Charleston, under the charge of Lieut. WILSON of the artillery, who has orders to land with his prisoner, at Fort Johnson, or Fort Moultrie, to forward this dispatch by mail and to wait the orders of the executive. Mr. SWARTWOUT will be sent to Baltimore by a vessel which will sail some time the ensuing week in custody of another subaltern, who will be the bearer of strong testimony against him, and also Col. BURR, and the others will follow under due precaution, by the earliest opportunities which may present.
"I deem it essential to keep these prisoners apart, to prevent the adjustment of correspondent answers or confessions, to any examination which may ensue, and I hope the measures of the executive may be so prompt and efficient, as to relieve the officers in charge of them from their trust, before the interposition of the friends of the prisoners may effect their liberation.
"By this procedure we may intimidate the confederates, who are unquestionably numerous in this as well as the adjacent territory, disconcert their arrangements and possibly destroy their intrigues, and I hope the zeal which directs the measure may be justified and approved, for whilst the glow of patriotism animates my conduct, and I am willing to offer myself a martyr to the constitution of my country, I should indeed be most grievously disappointed did I incur its censure.
"Here, Sir, we find the key to the western states, and here we must form one grand depository and place of arms,—combine to this disposition a river fleet competent to its occlusion and post it thirty or forty leagues above the Yazou river, and we may repose in security for the discontent and sufferings of our insurgent citizens which must immediately ensue will soon open their eyes to the wickedness of their leaders and work a radical reformation without bloodshed. This is my plan for resisting an internal attack—for external defence, gun boats and bomb ketches with floating batteries at the mouth of the Mississippi and the passage from Lake Ponchartrain will be necessary.
Extra of a letter from General JAMES WILKINSON, dated New Orleans, December 18, 1806.
SIR—Since my left of the 14th inst. writs of habeas corpus have been issued for the bodies of BOLLMAN, SWARTWOUT, and OGDEN, the two latter by Judge WORKMAN, who is strongly suspected for being connected with BURR in his conspiracy, as I have proof this man declared some time since that "the republican who possessed power and did not employ it to establish a despotism was a fool." His writ for OGDEN was served on Captain SHAW of the navy who had him in charge at my request, on board the Etna bomb ketch, and delivered him up, and Mr. WORKMAN discharged him without giving me a word of information, although he knew he was confined by my order for a treasonable combination with BURR, and Mr. OGDEN now floats at large. SWARTWOUT I have sent off and shall report, holding myself ready for consequences. BOLLMAN was required by the superior court. But I have got rid of that affair also, under the usual liability for damages, in which case I shall look to our country for protection.
I, JAMES WILKINSON, Brigadier-General and Commander in Chief of the Army of the United States, do warrant the arrest of Dr. ERICK BOLLMAN on a charge of treason, misprision of treason, or such other offence against the government and laws of the United States, as the following facts may legally charge him with—on my honor as a soldier, and on the holy evangelists of Almighty God, do declare and swear, that on the sixth day of November last, when in command at Natchitoches, I received by the hands of a Frenchman, a stranger to me, a letter from Doctor ERICK BOLLMAN, of which the following is a correct copy.

New-Orleans, Sept. 27, 1806.
SIR, I have the honor to forward to your excellency the enclosed letters, which I was charged to deliver to you by our mutual friend. I shall remain for some time at this place, and should be glad to learn where and when I may have the pleasure of an interview with you. Have the goodness to inform me of it, and please to direct your letter to me, care of _____, or enclose it under cover to them.
I have the honor to be, With great respect, Sir, Your excellency's most obedient servant, (Signed) ERICK BOLLMAN, General Wilkinson.
Covering a communication in cypher from Col. AARON BURR, of which the following is substantially as fair an interpretation as I have heretofore been able to make, the original of which I hold in my possession: "I (AARON BURR) have obtained funds and have actually commenced the enterprise—detachments from different points and under different pretences will rendezvous on the Ohio 1st November—every thing internal and external favors views—protection of England is secured—T is gone to Jamaica to arrange with the admiral on that station and will meet at the Mississippi—England—Navy of the United States are ready to join and final orders are given to my friends and followers—it will be an Host of choice spirits—WILKINSON shall be second to BURR only—WILKINSON shall dictate the rank and promotion of his officers—BURR will proceed Westward 1st August—never to return—with him go his daughter—the Husband will follow in October with a corps of avowries—and forth—with an intelligent and confidential friend with whom BURR may confer. He shall retain immediately with further interesting details—this is essentially to concert and harmony of movement. Send a list of all persons known to WILKINSON west of the mountains, who could be useful, with a note delineating the characters. By your Messenger send me 4 or 5 of the commissions of your officers which you can borrow under any pretence you please—They shall be returned faithfully—Already are orders to the contractor given to forward the means provisions to points WILKINSON may name—this shall not be used until the last moment, and then under proper injunctions—the project is brought so the point to long desired—BURR guarantees the result with his life and honor—the lives, the honor and fortunes of hundreds, the best blood of our country—BURR's plan of operations is to move down rapidly from the falls on the 15th of November with the first 500, or 1000 men in light boats now constructing for that purpose—to be at Natchez between the 5th and 15th of December—then to meet WILKINSON—then to determine whether it will be expedient in the first instance to seize on or pass by Baton Rouge—on receipt of this send BURR an answer—draw on BURR for all expenses, &c. The people of the country to which we are going are prepared to receive us—their agents now with BURR, say that if we will protect their religion and will not subject them to a foreign power, that in three weeks all will be settled. The Gods invite to glory and for one—it remains to be seen whether we deserve the boon. The bearer of this goes express to you—he will hand a formed letter of introduction to you from BURR, a copy of which is herewith subjoined—he is a man of inviolable honor and perfect discretion—formed to execute rather than to project—capable of relating facts with fidelity & incapable of relating them otherwise. He is thoroughly informed of the plans and intentions of _____, and will disclose to you as far as you enquire, and no further—he has embarked a reverence for your character and may be embarrassed in your presence—other than as far as he will assist you. Doctor BOLLMAN equally confidential, better informed on the subject and more intelligent will read this duplicate." 29th July.
The day after my arrival at this city, the 26th of November last, I received another letter from the Doctor, of which the following is a correct copy.
New Orleans, 25th Nov. 1806.
SIR, Your letter of the 6th instant, has been duly received. Supposing that you will be much engaged this morning I defer waiting on your excellency till you will be pleased to inform me of the time when it will be convenient to you to see me.
I remain with great respect, Your excellency's most obedient servant, (Signed) ERICK BOLLMAN, His Excellency Gen. WILKINSON, Faubourg.
Marigny, the house between madame Trevigne and Mr. Macarty.
On the 30th of the same month I waited in person on D. E. BOLLMAN, when he informed me that he had not heard from Col. Burr since his arrival here—that he (the said D. E. BOLLMAN) had sent dispatches to Col. Burr by a Lieut. Spence of the navy, and that he had been advised of Spence's arrival at Natchez, in the state of Tennessee—and observed that Col. Burr had proceeded too far to retreat: that he (Col. Burr) had numerous and powerful friends in the U. States, who stood pledged to support him with their fortunes, and that he must succeed. That he, the said D. E. BOLLMAN, had written to Col. Burr on the subject of provisions, and that he expected a supply would be sent from New-York, and also from Norfolk, where Col. Burr had strong connections. I did not see or hear from the Doctor again until the 5th instant, when I called on him the second time.
Truxton.
The mail having arrived the day before, I asked him whether he had received any intelligence from Col. BURR. He informed me that he had seen a letter from Col. BURR of the 30th of October, in which he (Col. BURR) gave assurances that he would be at Natchez with 2000 men on the 20th of December inst. where he should wait until he heard from this place. That he would be followed by 4000 men more, and that he (Col. BURR) if he had chosen, could have raised or got 12,000 as early as 6,000, but that he did not think that number necessary—confiding fully in this information I became indifferent about further disguise. I then told the Doctor that I should most certainly oppose Col. BURR if he came this way. He replied, they must come here for equipments and shipping, and observed that he did not know what had passed between Col. BURR and myself, obliged at a sham defence and waved the subject.
From the documents in my possession, and the several communications, verbal as well as written, from the said Doctor ERICK BOLLMAN on the subject. I feel no hesitation in declaring under the solemn obligation of an oath, that he has committed misprision of treason against the government of the United States.
(Signed) JAMES WILKINSON. Signed and sworn to this 24th day of December, 1806, before me, one of the justices of the peace of this county. (Signed) I. CARRICK.
Philadelphia, 25th July, 1806. DEAR SIR, MR. SWARTWOUT, the brother of Col. S. of New-York, being on his way down the Mississippi, and presuming he may pass you at some post on the river, he requested of me a letter of introduction, which I give with pleasure, as he is a most amiable young man, and highly respectable from his character and connections. I pray you to afford him any friendly offices which his situation may require, and beg you to pardon the trouble which this may give you. With entire respect, Your friend and obedient servant, AARON BURR.
His Excellency General WILKINSON. The Message and Documents were committed to Messrs. J. Randolph, Boyle, J. Morrow, G. W. Campbell, R. Nelson, Clinton and Bidwell.
DISTRICT COURT. Case of Swartwout and Bollman. MONDAY, JAN. 26. This day Mr. Caldwell moved for an attachment to be issued against Colonel Wharton and Lieut. Mead, for refusing to obey a writ of habeas corpus, which was served upon Samuel Swartwout upon Saturday night. Another writ of habeas, was at the same time issued for Dr. Erick Bollman.
Mr. Jones, on the part of the United States, opposed issuing the attachment on the grounds, that a sufficient time had not elapsed for the officers to obey the writ, as likewise on the strength of an affidavit made by Gen. Eaton, to prove the existence of a conspiracy against the Union.
Mr. Dorsey and Mr. Francis S. Key both replied as counsel for Swartwout and Bollman. Mr. Key argued that they did not contend for the attachment on the statute of Charles II. but as a privilege to which they were entitled on the principles of common law.
Mr. Jones insisted that by the statute of Charles II. three days were allowed for the writ of habeas corpus, and that consequently the same period must be granted on the principles of common law. He also said that the statute of Charles II. and not common Law ought to be the guide in the present case, and that an alias if not a plures apias ought to issue before a writ of attachment.
The Court were of opinion that the writ of habeas corpus was issued by the practice of common law, but that a period of three days ought to be allowed for the return of the writ.
TUESDAY, JAN. 27. Mr. Jones gave in the deposition of Lieut. Wilson and Ensign Mead, stating that Gen. Wilkinson, at their departure was making all the preparations in his power for the defence of New-Orleans. Chief Justice Cranch then informed the counsel for the prisoners that it was the opinion of the court that a bench warrant should issue against Swartwout and Bollman, but that he differed in sentiment from the court, as there was no testimony given on oath to induce him to believe that they had levied war against the United States.
Justice Duckett expressed his sentiments at some length on this important question, to shew that there was probable cause to suppose they intended levying war against the United States.
Justice Fitzhugh delivered a similar opinion, recapitulating nearly the same reasons as were urged by justice Duckett.
A bench warrant was accordingly directed against Samuel W. Swartwout and Erick Bollman on the charge of treason, which was issued immediately.
The prisoners soon after were brought into court, which was extremely crowded. The appearance of Mr. Swartwout seemed to attract general attention, on account of his youth and genteel deportment. Their counsel, Mr. F. S. Key, moved that they be heard on Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock to shew cause why they should not be committed for trial on the charge aforesaid, which was granted.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 28. After the prisoners were brought to the bar, the chief justice informed their counsel, that owing to the indisposition of judge Fitzhugh, he thought proper to adjourn the consideration of their case until to-morrow.
PENNSYLVANIA. PHILADELPHIA, JAN. 27.
The Spanish Minister has been no dupe to BURR. He discovered his designs against Mexico, in Dec. 1805, and informed the Court of Madrid—and decisive preparations have in consequence been made in Mexico.
The Senate of the United States have passed the bill to suspend the writ of Habeas Corpus. In the House it was moved to reject the bill, and after a debate of some length, the yeas and nays were taken, and were For rejecting 113—against it 19.
It is not believed that TRUXTON has had any concern in the conspiracy.
BOLLMAN and SWARTWOUT are at Washington. No civil process has yet been issued against them. They are held under military orders, which, so far, appear to have been the strongest. This, if arbitrary and dis-covering a spice of tyranny, appears to be necessary.
The Circuit Court are considering whether the prisoners shall be arraigned for treason against the United States, or for an illegal combination to invade the territories of a foreign power. A Virginia member of Congress has proposed that they should be hung up at once.
Dr. BOLLMAN has had an audience of the President; whether to offer himself as State's evidence or to justify himself, is uncertain.
JAMES ALEXANDER, Esq. has been arrested at New-Orleans, and shipped for Washington.
A letter from Washington says, OGDEN has been taken again; and there was great reason to think BURR would be seized.
Writs of Habeas Corpus were granted by the court for Washington county, in this district, to take from the commanding officer, at the Navy Yard, the persons of Messrs. BOLLMAN and SWARTWOUT before the Court. The writs were not returned at 4 o'clock.
General Eaton's affidavit in Court this day, places the guilt of BURR beyond a doubt.
STATE OF NEWYORK. NEW-YORK, FEB. 2.
Capt. Brown, of the brig Susan & Betsey, from New-Orleans, informs, that some days previous to his sailing, the alarm had, in a great measure subsided, and that the embargo was raised, on the 31st December; but that, on the morning of the 2d January, an express arrived from Cumberland, and a second express reached New-Orleans, in 3 days from Natchez, with information, that General Adair with an advanced Guard of 2000 men was within 3 days march of Natchez, and that Burr was following with 6000 men. This occasioned a new alarm at New-Orleans—another Embargo was expected—and all the inhabitants were exerting themselves in removing their property. A boat, with 30,000 dollars pursued the Susan & Betsey down the river, but was too late. If this news is correct, there can be little doubt of Burr's success against New-Orleans, if he should be wicked enough to plunder that place, on his way to Mexico. As there were only about 600 regular troops under General Wilkinson, and a few volunteers; with 4 gun-boats, 2 ketches and 1 schooner.
By the vessel from New-Orleans, we have received the Louisiana Gazette of the 30th of Dec. which contains a very lengthy address to the public, by Edward Livingston, Esq. late mayor of this city. This address, which is warmly and elegantly expressed, does away the suspicions, and denies the charges of Gen. Wilkinson, of Mr. L's. having any concern in, or knowledge of Burr's conspiracy.—Mr. Livingston boldly vindicates the authority of the Laws, and lashes Wilkinson for his wild and illegal conduct relative Bollman, Swartwout, and others. Mr. L. concludes his address in these words:
"I know not what effect this publication will have—it may justify me to my country, which is the first wish of my heart—it may be the means of producing a strict scrutiny into my conduct, which I invite—it may draw down the further vengeance of my accuser, which I never will deprecate—But, whatever may be the event, nothing can destroy the consciousness I enjoy of my own rectitude on this occasion—nor the determination of my humble sphere, to resist oppression, and assert the Empire of the LAWS."
Late Foreign Intelligence. By the ship Caro, arrived at New-York, from Liverpool, London dates to the 6th Dec.
PRUSSIA. BERLIN, NOV. 8. OUR Gazette of this day contains the following:—
"Poles; Napoleon the Great; Invincible, advances into Poland, at the head of three hundred thousand men; without attempting to penetrate into the secret of his views, let it be our only endeavour to render ourselves worthy of his greatness. I will see whether you deserve to be a nation. I am going to Posen: there shall the first plan for your benefit be concerted. "Poles, it depends upon you to be an independent people to acquire a country. Your avenger your Creator has appeared. NOV. 18. Marshal Soult arrived here the day before yesterday. His corps is expected to follow. The French Senators Francois de Neuschateau, Colchen, and Ahremb, are arrived here from Leipzig. They come in the name of the Conservative Senate, to compliment the Emperor on his victories. The reigning Prince of Anhalt Conthen, the King of Naples' Aid-de-camp Clary, and the Prussian Minister of State, Von Ingersleben, are arrived in this city, the latter from Stetin.
ARMISTICE—From the country of Brandenburg, Nov. 11. We are assured that a suspension of arms for an indefinite term was concluded on the 8th of this month, between Marshal Duroc and Gen. Lastrow.
ENGLAND. LONDON, DEC. 6. Extract of a letter from Yarmouth dated Dec. 5, 1806. "I have just time to inform you of our arrival here from Hambro', which I was obliged to leave at a few minutes notice, on the 25th ult. after a decree, making all the English here prisoners of war. Bonaparte's last decree is to this effect.—"That British property of every description is to be confiscated. England is declared to be in a state of blockade; and all British subjects who may be found in any of the countries occupied by the French, are declared to be prisoners of war. We left Altona at half past three o'clock, on the 26th ult.—Four or 5 thousand French left Hambro' the day before, they went through the Steingate, the road to Lubec; their destination is not known. The British factory had been arrested, but liberated on parole, and it was hoped would effect a compromise with the French.
DEFEAT OF THE FRENCH. A Gottenburgh Mail arrived this morning, with letters and papers, from which we have made the following extracts, corroborating the report of the defeat of the French, by the Russians, near Posen.
GOTTENBURGH, NOV. 30. A Russian Courier has just arrived, in ten days from St. Petersburg, he reports, that in passing through Stockholm he was told there had been an action between the French and Russians, in which the latter were completely victorious: he could not learn any particulars.

dec. 1. A Captain of a ship, just arrived from Elsinour, reports that when he left it, accounts were received, that an action had taken place between the Russians and French, in the neighbourhood of Posen, in which the latter were defeated with great slaughter. The Russian army consisted of 140,000 men, the French but 60,000. A ship had arrived at Elsinour, in three days from Stetin, the Captain of which saw nineteen waggons, full of wounded French, enter Stetin.
It is reported, that the French have sent all the English at Hamburg, prisoners to Verdun.
Some letters were yesterday received from Lisbon, which were landed at Weymouth, but it is not yet ascertained by what conveyance they were brought to England. One of them, from an English merchant, states, as the current rumour at Lisbon, that Bonaparte had demanded from the Spanish Government a categorical answer to three questions:—
1. The nature and terms of their late Negotiations with Russia? 2. The reasons for not providing sufficiently for the security of their possessions in America? 3. Why Spain was at present arming?
Demanding at the same time the payment of fifty thousand dollars per day, until such questions should be satisfactorily answered.
We have reason to believe that the report to which we alluded yesterday, of the Negotiation with America having taken an unfavorable turn is well founded.—There is no pretence for saying, that this country has evinced toward America a haughty or unbending spirit—far from it. The details of the negotiation, we understand, will shew that every thing was done on our part, that could be done with either safety or honor to adjust the differences with America. Notwithstanding the insulting language used towards this country—notwithstanding the passing of the non-importation Bill, we still shewed every disposition to preserve a peace.
But it cannot for moment be supposed that our anxiety for peace originated in any dread of war. It was because we could not dread a contest with America, that we shewed a greater disposition to moderation and concession—for we were sure our moderation could not be mistaken for meanness, nor our disposition to concede be supposed to proceed from a principle of fear.
BULLETIN SKETCHES.
No. 15, is dated "Wirtzburg, Oct. 23, 1806," and contains much common-place comment on the conduct of Prussia, and England. The Prussian advocates for the war are again stated to have been The Queen, Generals Smettau, Buchel, Bucher, Prince Louis, and the Duke of Brunswick. Those averse to it, the King, Marshal Mollendorf, and Gen. Kalkreath. The Queen, it says, undertook to manage the King by insinuating, that his aversion to war arose from fear; and which occasioned his determination. The King, it adds, is a brave man, he had two horses shot under him; and received a musket ball in his sleeve. It mentions, that 60,000,000 francs were offered for the redemption of the English goods found at Leipzig; that if England had made peace she might have recovered Hanover, kept the Cape-of-Good-Hope, and preserved Malta; but instead of this was willing to excite Prussia against France. This bulletin mentions the advance of the French towards Potsdam and Berlin, and of the arrival of deputies from the former to solicit protection.
The 16th Bulletin, contains the following speech of the Emperor Napoleon to an officer sent by the Duke of Brunswick to solicit protection for his states:—
"If I were to demolish the city of Brunswick, and if I did not leave one stone upon another, what would
your Prince say?—Does not the law of retaliation authorise me to do at Brunswick what he would have done at my capital? To threaten to destroy cities may be merely the act of madness;—but to attempt to deprive a whole army of brave men of their honor—to propose to them to quit Germany at stated marches, is what posterity would hardly credit. The Duke of Brunswick ought not to have committed such an outrage. Sir, tell the inhabitants of the country of Brunswick, that they will find the French generous enemies; that I wish to soften the rigors of war with regard to them, and that the inconvenience which the passage of troops may occasion will be against my inclination. Tell Gen. Brunswick he shall be treated with all the attention due to a Prussian officer, but that I cannot recognise a sovereign in a Prussian general. If the House of Brunswick lose the sovereignty of its ancestors it can only be ascribed to the author of two wars; who in one would have sapped the great capital to its foundation; and who in the other attempted to dishonor two hundred thousand brave men, who perhaps might be conquered, but who would never be surprised out of the path of honor and glory. Much blood has been shed in a few days. Great disasters press upon the Prussian monarchy.
It has been remarked, that during the conversation, the Emperor with that warmth with which he is often animated, often repeated, "to overturn and destroy the habitations of peaceable citizens is a crime which can be repaired by time and expense; but to dishonor an army, to wish that it should fly from Germany before the Prussian Eagle is a blemish that none but the person who advised it could be capable of committing."
United States.
NINTH CONGRESS.—SECOND SESSION.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, WEDNESDAY, JAN. 21.
A BILL for the erection of Light-Houses, &c. passed.
There not being a quorum in the house, for most of the time, an adjournment became necessary, at an early hour.
FRIDAY, JAN. 23.
Mr. Quincy submitted the following resolution, which was agreed to: Resolved , That the committee of commerce and manufactures be directed to enquire into the expediency of providing by law how far owners of ships shall be answerable for the acts of masters and mariners; and that they have leave to report by bill or otherwise.
Mr. Bedinger, from the committee to whom had been re-committed the "bill to prohibit the importation or bringing slaves into the United States after the 31st of December, 1807," reported the bill with sundry amendments.
After the bill was read, Mr. Early asked whether, when a bill, whose prominent feature had been tested by the house, was recommitted to a special committee, was competent to destroy that feature of the bill alluded to (the forfeiture of the persons imported) and introduce another directly opposite.
Mr. Alston thought that the best way would be to order this bill, as well as the former one, to lie on the table, so that the house might make choice of either of them.
The bill was referred to a committee of the whole on Friday; and, with the former one, ordered to be printed.
The "bill to continue in force for a further time the act entitled, an act to suspend the commercial intercourse between the United States and certain parts of the island of St. Domingo," was read a third time, and passed. This bill continues in force the aforesaid act until the end of the next session of Congress, and no longer.
The "bill to provide for surveying the coast of the United States," was read a third time, and passed. This bill authorizes the President to cause all islands, shoals, &c. within twenty leagues of the coast of the United States to be surveyed, and appropriates 25,000 dollars for that purpose.
Mr. Alston reported a bill making compensation to Messrs. Lewis, Clark, &c. by a grant of land, for services rendered the United States by their expedition on the westward.
The house went into committee of the whole on the report of the select committee on fortifications.
Mr. Mumford, after speaking of the outrage at New-York in April last, the murder of Pearse, &c. and the conduct of the commander in compelling a pilot to convey the Cambrian from Cape Henry to Hampton road a short time since, offered an amendment; after that part of the resolution which grants the
executive a certain sum of money to repair fortifications. Mr. Mumford would insert an appropriation of a certain sum for the repair and maintenance of the navy.
Mr. Clinton spoke in favour of the amendment of Mr. Mumford.
Mr. R. Nelson spoke against the amendment. He wished to know what sum should be appropriated.
The amendment was lost.
Several sums were mentioned with which to fill the blank appropriating money for the repair and maintenance of the fortifications, and the defence of the harbours of the United States. Mr. Cooke mentioned one million of dollars—about twenty appeared in favour of his motion.
Mr. Mumford regretted the loss of his amendment, and urged the necessity and propriety of fully fortifying the port of New-York—not fortifications of the strength of Gibraltar are asked; but an adequate and respectable defence.—How much of the revenue of the United States is collected from that port only?—"Millions for defence, not a cent for tribute;" is this the language of the house? It is, or ought to be. To protect us, the great duty of all governments, New-York, and the other states, are entitled.
Mr. Smith, Nature has deprived us of the power of fortifying New-York.—We want a plan of the harbour, and an estimate of the expence; and when we have it, it will, I believe, be found that it cannot be fortified at any expence.—We are negotiating with England, and I trust we shall have no more conduct similar to that of April last.
500,000 dollars, were mentioned with which to fill the blank.
Mr. R. Nelson thought New-York was not more entitled to defence than other ports—It is impossible to defend every seaport in the manner wished—Better quit the seaports for a season, if they are attacked, then fortify and after all be vanquished.
Mr. Clinton replied to Mr. Nelson.
Mr. Cooke, spoke against the remarks of Mr. Nelson—When an enemy approaches, we are to retreat from our seaports! Absurd—We are telling foreign nations when they please to send a ship, a mere schooner, to lay us under contribution or burn our seaports, and we will not resist.
Mr. Sloan said he should vote against any sum above 20,000 dollars.
For appropriating 500,000 dols. 38 Against it 55 It was then proposed to fill the blank with 400,000 dollars.
For it 37 Against it 56 300,000 dollars were then proposed, with which to fill up the blank.
For it 36 Against it 58 250,000 dollars For filling 37 Against it 59
Mr. Thomas moved to fill the blank with 100,000 dollars.
Mr. Holland spoke against the motion. If in peace we need no such fortifications; if in war they can be of no service.
Mr. N. Williams. We shall never do any thing worthy the dignity of the house until we are driven into it by some terrible disaster—Even if we adopt the plan of the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Nelson) and conclude to run away when attacked, it would be well to have power to keep the enemy at bay long enough to collect a little cash and our duds to reappear into the country.—The defence of New-York is according to the opinion of the best engineers, a practicable thing. But we are to take no measures of defence till attacked! Such an objection to defence would excite my ridicule if uttered by a school-boy—uttered in the house it excites my grief—Gentlemen from the south may talk as they please, but the spirit of this nation, a commercial spirit, will not brook this supineness.
Mr. Nelson. If all the ports in the United States were now fortified, it would take at least 100,000 men to man the fortifications—This will be a stepping stone to other great and useful appropriations.
Mr. Cooke moved to fill the blank with 200,000 dollars.
For filling it 42 Against it 55 For filling with 100,000 dols. 51 Against it 60 For filling with 50,000 dols. 38 For 20,000 67 Against it 42
The part of the resolution appropriating a certain sum for building gun-boats being under consideration.
Mr. Nelson wished the blank filled with 300,000 dollars.
Mr. Mumford moved to fill the blank with 3,000 dollars. He tho't that sum quite sufficient for gun-boats.
Mr. Nelson spoke in favour of gun boats as a defence.
For 300,000 dollars 36 Against it 47 For 250,000 dollars 63 Against it 33
TO BE SOLD
AT PUBLIC AUCTION, On the 10th day of March next.
A QUANTITY of Stock, viz. Cows, Oxen, Young Cattle, &c.—And a Quantity of Hay, at the Dwelling-house of the late Simon Potter, Esq. deceased.
...ALSO...
To be Sold at the same time and place, by Messrs. Hopfell McNeal & Thomas Laing, the Hog Neck FARM, so called.
WILLIAM D'WOLF, Adm'r, Somerset, Jan. 20, 1807.
WARREN:
SATURDAY, FEB. 7, 1807.
Mr. DAVID WHITTEMORE, a native of Thompson, (Con.) was murdered at Augusta, (Geo.) on the 19th December, where he had some time resided, as a trader and merchant. The perpetrators of this deed of horror, were three men, and a woman, the wife of the principal actor; their object was money. One of the men has been caught and confessed the whole. We trust the remaining culprits will be found.
MARRIED.
At Providence, on the 25th ult. by the Rev. Mr. Gano, Mr. PHILIP PECK, to the amiable Miss ABYE CHACE, daughter of the late Mr. Anos Chace.
At Newport, by the Rev. Mr. Kiogy, Mr. FREDERICK COGGESHALL, to Miss JOANN DENNIS, daughter of William Dennis, Esq.
DIED.
At Barrington, on the 24th ult. Mr. WILLIAM KENT, son of Mr. Joshua Kent, in the 18th year of his age.—On the 4th ult. JAMES MARTIN, Esq. in the 56th year of his age.
Drowned.—At Dighton, the 23d ult. in crossing the river on the ice, with his books to settle an account, Capt. JOHN ANDREWS, in the 43d year of his age; a worthy citizen, leaving a wife and 5 small children to lament an irreparable loss, which is feebly felt by all who knew his estimable character. He was the eldest son of Mr. John Andrews, merchant, formerly of this town. The books were found on the ice, and his body was taken up the day following.
Herald Ship News.
STATE OF RHODE-ISLAND.
DISTRICT OF NEWPORT.
  ENTERED. FROM    Sloop Fame, Waldin, New-York  — Hunteress, Helme, ditto  — Minerva, Bliven, ditto  — Golden Age, Justin, Boston  Schr. Mount-Vernon, Updike, Kingston  CLEARED. FOR  Sloop Fame, Waldin, New-York  Schr. Patty, Wood, West-Indies  
DISTRICT OF PROVIDENCE.
  ENTERED. FROM    Sloop George, Potter, Alexandria  Brig Inoustry, Bird, Flushing  Ship Asia, Pearce, Amsterdam  CLEARED. FOR  Sloop Ruby, Petty, Barbados  Brig Perseverance, Jackson, Alexandria  Snow Ida, Dennis, Surinam  Ship Maria, Bowler, St. Bartholomew's  
VESSELS LEFT.
At Point-Pierre, (Guad.) Jan. 4th, brigs Relief, Williams, of Newburyport; Nymph, Morrison, do.; Fox, Horton, of Portland; Mary, M'Intosh, do.; Hubbard, of Middletown; schrs. Cushing, Bates, of Boston; and Betsey, Conning, of Newport.—At New-Orleans, Jan. 3d, brigs Neptune, Upton of Salem; Trio, Story, of Boston; Khoda, Green, do.—A Hingham, schr. from Boston, with military stores, was outside the Balize.
SHIPPING MEMORANDA.
The brig Hiram, Brown, of this port, was at New-Orleans, Jan. 3.
At Havana, Jan. 9th, ship Ocean, Carr, of this port, for New-York in 15 days.
The ship Columbia, Rodman, from Providence, arrived at Charlestown Jan. 16.
The Charlotte, Cook, of Providence, arrived off the Land's End, Dec. 5.
Brig Hunter, Harris, 16 days from Providence, for Antigua, was spoken Jan. 2 lat. 26, long. 16.
Ship Union, Manchester, of Newport, from Africa, for Charlestown, was spoken Dec. 28, lat. 23, long. 65, 32.
Arrived at New-Orleans, Jan. 6th, ship George Walhington, Martin, from Newport. [Capt. M. was drowned at Pluckamin.]
Mr. Cooper, and Dr. Judah, who went out with Miranda in the ship Leander, has arrived at New-York in the brig Aurora, Howell, in 32 days from Trinidad.
A letter from Charlestown to a merchant in Boston, dated Jan. 10, says, "There are now in this harbor 67 ships, 31 brigs, and 61 Schooners and sloops; Rice is at 4 dols. Upland Cotton 19 to 20 cents; Som Island 35 to 37."
Arrived, at Portsmouth, (Eng.) the Racehorse sloop, Capt. Forbes, from Guernsey. She has four tons of silver on board, in 147,900 dols. which were saved out of an American ship which she detained, and was the next day lost at Guernsey. One hundred and thirty hogsheads of negroes are also saved; the rest of the cargo is entirely lost. She was valued at 100,000 lb.—Mr. Reed, master's mate of the Racehorse, was lost in her.
SALES AT AUCTION.
On Monday the 2d day of March next, at 1 o'Clock A. M. at the House of the Subscriber—consisting of—
BEDS and BEDING—CHAIRS— and sundry other articles of HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE—Terms made known at the time and place of Sale.
AARON HAILE, Adm'r.
Warren, Feb. 6, 1807.
On the 10th of March next, at 1 o'Clock A. M. at the Dwelling-House of the late SIMON POTTER, Esq. of Swansey, deceased.
THAT Noted place called the James Brown FARM, on Gardner's Neck, now in the occupation of James Luther, Esq. containing Two Hundred Acres, being the same, more or less.—For further information enquire of said James Luther, Esq. on the premises, or of the Subscriber, in Warren.
MARY GARRETT.
Warren, Feb. 5, 1807.
BROKE into the enclosure of the subscriber, about the First of December last, FIVE SHEEP.—The owner is requested to prove property pay charges and take them away.
HEZEKIAH MUNRO, 2d.
Bristol, Jan. 29, 1807.

APOLLO'S FOUNT.
The following verses are a specimen of the simplicity and pathos of a genuine Irish Bard.
CATHERINE OGHEE.
WHERE weeps the willow o'er the stream, Thy silver stream, O Lucan! And sighs, as autumn's evening breeze Blows cold upon thy bosom; Beneath thy verdant bank inlaid, With wild flower's sweetest nosegay; The sweetest flower of all the vale, There sleeps my CATHERINE OGHEE.
How oft, alas! at evening star, We mark'd the clear face dimple! How oft, beneath the moon's bright beam, We mark'd thy waters wimple! And whilst thy bosom's dazzling snow Glowing cheeks did pillow, Ah! what could match my joys beneath The hoar leaf weeping willow?
I drank the music of her tongue, Inhal'd her balmy kisses, I hung around her ivory neck, Dissolv'd in chaste blisses; But woe is me! that beam of love, The valley's sweetest nosegay, Now sleeps beneath thy primrose bank: My angel, CATHERINE OGHEE.
Accurs'd the fiend, whose ruffian hand Did tear that beauteous blossom; Remorse with scorpion stings corrode And canker in his bosom. For me remains the mournful joy, With wild flower's sweetest nosegay, When twilight comes, to deck the grave, Where sleeps my CATHERINE OGHEE.
Domestic Occurrences.
PENNSYLVANIA.
PHILADELPHIA, JAN. 3.
FIVE letters, written by Admiral WILLAUMEZ, commander of the French squadron lately off this coast, one addressed to the Minister of Marine, in France; three to Gen. TURNER, French Minister in Washington, and one to Commodore BARNEY, and dated, from Sept. 30, 1806, to 10th November, 1806, have appeared in the papers.—They are pronounced to be genuine; and give a detailed account of the cruise of the French squadron, until it encountered the hurricane on the 19th and 20th August last.—The most of these particulars are known—One object of the cruise was to intercept and destroy the English homeward bound West-India fleets.
Extract of a letter from the French Ad. WILLAUMEZ to the Minister of Marine at Paris, dated Havana Sept. 30.
“On the 28th of July, at sun set, we saw a large ship to windward, and two brigs; I supposed however these might be Sir JOHN, and I made a signal to close the squadron, and keep to windward, intending next day to engage this admiral to advantage. A schooner, however, which belonged to these vessels to windward, and which I boarded at midnight, afterwards informed me it was part of a convoy of Americans, consisting of 8 sail, under the escort of 2 small frigates, bound to New York, laden with coffee, &c. &c. by the revolted negroes of St. Domingo. This news not being disclosed to me by the master of the schr. till some days after, the convoy had time to escape to the northward—indignant at the conduct of the Americans, I immediately put the master of the schooner in irons, and all his people, and made sail in search of the said convoy, determined to bang at the yard arm, the captains and supercargoes, in the face of their countrymen, at New York—but being nearly off Cape Hatteras, the weather changed, and the gathering storm left me no hope of arriving off New York in time to intercept these pirates. On the 16th Aug. being nearly in a proposed rendezvous, I invited on board my ship all the captains to celebrate Napoleon the First, and now learning the condition of their ships, I consented, from the disabled state of all the vessels, to proceed on the 20th to St. Jean, Porto Rico, from whence I proposed sailing the 1st of Oct. My design was to proceed direct to Newfoundland to destroy the English fishery, &c.
[Here he mentions the August storm, the dispersion of his squadron, and his getting, singly, into the Havana.]
“A ten months cruise would have proved sufficient to ruin sails and rigging, had they been even new when I first sailed—but I needed not this hard trial to convince me of the miserable equipment of the squadron I was to command, for scarcely had his Imperial Majesty's squadron put to sea, before they proved leaky and unfit for sea—most painful is it to me to represent to you, at this late day, these miserable equipments, no doubt very contrary to your intentions, and the wish of his Imperial Majesty, bestowed upon my vessels, relative to which I should have made strong representations could I have known it before my departure from France; but it was not permitted me to demand any thing, neither to enquire into what was requisite for the second' squadron, before the first, completely unarmed, was ordered to sea, nor was it till after sailing, I discovered the very bad condition of my ships.
“Since my arrival at the Havana, I have, by the most secret and careful means, forwarded orders to such of his Imperial Majesty's ships, as were said to be arrived in different ports in America and Porto Rico, requiring from their commanders an immediate report of the state and condition of their ships, with orders to them to join me at the earliest moment in their power. Whenever all the ships of my scattered squadron of men of war shall have rejoined me here, I shall, I hope, be able to perform such services as his Majesty has entrusted me with. Meanwhile some few Spanish men of war, if ordered to proceed to sea with me, might effect some good. I find the Spaniards well disposed to forward every thing for the good of his Majesty's service, particularly lieut. general VILLAVAXARIO, who superintends the department of the navy. It has been proposed to me to proceed to Vera Cruz for treasure; the value of commerce there being estimated at 60 millions, and the riches of the place, it is well known are without bounds.”
Admiral WILLAUMEZ to the French Minister in the United States, dated Oct. 29.
“Admiral WILLAUMEZ says, that he proposed going to Vera Cruz, agreeable to the project of the government of the Spanish colony of Havana, to bring some millions of dollars, which he states will be the more apropos, as the French Emperor had a right to the payment of one million of dollars, of which the scarcity was very great at the Island of Cuba, Admiral WILLAUMEZ then continues: I have just apprehended four seamen, deserters from the Valareuse frigate, which I found on board an American brig, where they had been engaged at 17 dollars per month—Now, Sir, if you can succeed in making the American government pay down a compensation for this misconduct, in seducing thus our seamen, you will punish it by making it smart in that point in which it feels most, viz. its avarice in money, and with so much the more justice, since those people (meaning the American merchants) have for three years past been continually injuring our marine by seducing our best seamen from us.”
From the same to the same, Oct. 29.
“If two more of my ships join me here, with a Spanish ship called the St. Laurent, I trust that I shall have a force shortly that will double that of the English, as I am informed they have but two line of battle ships in and about Jamaica. With this division I am impressed with an idea that I shall rejoice my government with the news of the fall of that colony, and it will afford more gratification than hundreds of millions from Vera Cruz. Apropos, our Emperor is to receive one million of dollars from his Catholic majesty on the score of an adjustment with the Spanish government at the Isle of Cuba. The Spaniards are sending a force to Vera Cruz, but that's of no consequence. There is a secret expedition going somewhere from this island, this I have correct.”
To the French Minister in the United States, dated Havana, Nov. 6.
“The contre admiral WILLAUMEZ, commanding here the ship
belonging to his Imperial majesty, has given orders to MONSIEUR LE CHADERAUD, lieut. of the ship, charged with these and other dispatches, to say, that he is astonished at the conduct of the commanders of ships belonging to his Imperial majesty in the American ports. He is alarmed at the behaviour of the French ambassador, so fully instructed by his majesty. He is determined as general in chief to inform the French government of the conduct of the United States—but he trusts that the French ships are now supplied with all necessaries.”
A fifth letter is to Commodore BARNEY.
Desultory Selections.
THE FOLLY OF CONTENTION ABOUT SPECULATIVE DIVINITY.
“Who back religion all to scars, And lag, and tag, and waring and twift it, To prove that 'ne another miss't it.”
“AND what is this important contention? what is its object? A name, merely a name.—“One says I am of Paul, another of Apollos, and another of Cephas;” but these are nominal distinctions. And when in modern times, one says “I am of Hopkins, another of Chaney, and another of Winchester,” I am tempted to exclaim “A plague of all your houses. Oh, ye reverend divines, and venerable professors, remember that ye are travelling to the city of your God.—Do ye expect to be distinguished by your different appellations, when ye arrive at the mansion of eternal peace? Do ye think ye shall there found the tocsin of controversy, or beat the alarm of contention?”
ELEGANT EXTRACT.
THE female mind is naturally credulous, affectionate, and, in its attachment, ardent. If, in her peculiar situation, her affections must in any degree be culpable, let us remember that this is by a frail vessel of refined clay. When the awful record of her errors is enrolled, may that sigh which was breathed for the misery of a fellow mortal waft away the scroll, and the tears which flowed for the calamities of others float the memorial down the stream of oblivion!”
On the errors of women let us look with the allowance and humanity of men. Enchanting women! thou balm of life! fother of sorrow! solace of the soul! how dost thou lessen the load of human misery, and lead the wretched into the valley of delight! without thee, how heavily would men drag through a dreary world! but if the white hand of a fascinating female be twined round his arm, how joyous, how lightly doth he trip along the path!
That arm and tender friend, who in the most trying situations, retains her fondness, and in every change of fortune preserves unabated love, ought to be embraced as the first benison of Heaven—the completion of earthly happiness. Let man draw such a prize in the lottery of life, and glide down the stream of existence with such a partner; neither the cold, averted eye of a summer friend, nor the frowns of an adverse fortune should produce a pang nor excite a murmur.
Irland's Works.
“This sentence falls but very little short of the so much and so justly admired passage of STERNE, immediately subsequent to the oath which the overflowing benevolence of the heart of UNCLE TOBY had caused him to utter in behalf of LE FEVRE.—“The accusing spirit, which flew up to heaven's chancery with the oath, blushed as he gave it in; and the recording angel, as he wrote it down dropped a tear upon the word, and blotted it out forever.”
ANECDOTES.
A FELLOW being brought to the bar to answer for a misdemeanor, told his prosecutor, that he could convict him of being both a thief and a murderer! Upon being required to prove his assertion—“Why,” said he, “you ugly villain, you killed a monkey, and you stole his countenance.”
A FRENCHMAN having undertaken to translate an English book into his own language on coming to the words chesnut horse , literally translated it, “a horse made of chesnuts .”
DIRECT TAX.
PURSUANT to an Act of Congress, intitled “An act to lay and collect a Direct Tax within the United States,” will be sold at public sale at the dwelling of Benjamin Howland, Esq. in Tiverton, on the 27th day of February, A. D. 1807, at 10 o'Clock in the forenoon, the under-mentioned estates, situated in said Tiverton, or so much thereof, as may be necessary to satisfy the taxes due thereon, together with costs and charges, unless the said Taxes, costs, and charges, shall be paid previous to that time.
   Name of proprietor or occupant in Oct 1793. Name of reputed owner in Oct 1793. Kinds of Estates. TAX p. c.     Wm. Borden, Wm. Borden, houses & land 9 5/8   Paul Croffman, P. Croffman, house & land 7 6   Susannah Cary, Wm. Fremer, house & land 16   Russel Fish, Russel Fish, land 1 4   Stephen Grinnell, Daniel Grinnell, house & land 4 6   Lewis Grinnell, Lewis Grinnell, land 31   Richard Gifford, Richard Gifford, land 22   Isaac Hart, Isaac Hart, land 8 5   Godfrey Lake, Godfrey Lake, land 31   G. Manchester, G. Manchester, land 41   P. Manchester, P. Manchester, house & land 32   Henry Negus, Henry Negus, land 24   Retstrom Sanford, Retstrom Sanford, land 31   Elizabeth Tripp, Elizabeth Tripp, land 61   Sarah Taber, Sarah Taber, land 52   Abial Tripp, Abial Tripp, land 2 8   Ichabod Willifon, Ichabod Willifon, land 22   John Wilcox, John Wilcox, house & land 53   Wm. Woddle, Wm. Woddle, house & land 2 64  
BY NICHOLAS E. DUFFEE, Collector. *TIVERTON, Dec. 22, 1806
WHEREAS the Hon. Court of Probate, for the Town of Warren, appointed the Subscriber Administrator to the Estate of
BETSEY SANDERS, late of Warren, widow, deceased—All persons having demands against said Estate, are hereby notified to exhibit the same to the Subscriber, at his dwelling house.—All persons indebted to said Estate, are requested to make immediate payment to NATHANIEL SANDERS. *January 8, 1807.
N. M. Burr,
Has just received a fresh supply of well chosen and seasonable
GOODS,
and offers them for Sale at reduced prices, on accommodating and liberal terms, consisting of
SUPERFINE middling and low priced BROADCLOTHS. KERSEYMERES, KERSEYS, KERSEYNETTS, SERGES, VESTINGS, COATINGS, DUFFILLS, FEARNOTS, FLANNELS, BAISE, SWANKINS, DOMETS, Rose BLANKETS, WILEBORES, & DURANTS.
A valuable choice of fashionable twilled, striped & plain VELVETS , uncommonly low.
Factory Cotton & India CHECKS . Cambric and common DIMOTIES . India COTTONS, SHEETING & SHIRTING , cheap.
CALLICOES, Irish LINNENS, brown HOLLAND. SHAWLS of the newest taste. BANDANNOE HANDKERCHIEFS , per piece. Check'd and pocket, ditto.
Ladies and Gentlemen's black, lead coloured & mix'd Worsted STOCKINGS . Ladies Cotton MITTS & GLOVES . Cotton UMBRELLAS . Factory COTTON WARP & FILLING , per Bundle &c. at Factory prices.
A neat Supply of HARDWARE , with a great Assortment of Iron Hollow WARE, HAND-IRONS, FLATT-IRONS & Cart BOXES .
Coarse and fine SALT . Black PEPPER, CASSIA & CINNAMON , per Hundred or Dozen. CLOVES, NUTMEGS, & ALLSPICE , per Pound.
GINGER and PEARL ASHES , per Keg or Dozen. TOBACCO and SEGARS . to Barrels choice Cyder VINEGAR . 100 Straws TUMBLERS . 300 Rolls Paper HANGINGS & BORDERS , a fresh Supply; old Stock selling at Cost.
REDWOOD, LOGWOOD, FUSTIC, ALUM, COPPERAS, VITRIOL, AQUA FORTIS & SALT PETRE . POWDER, SHOT and FLINTS . A great Variety of Cart, Horse, Chaise and Hunting WHIPS , mounted on Whalebone.
6 Dozen choice sweet Olive Bottle OIL . A large Supply of Cooper's Cedar and Oak WARES, BASKETS, &c. Household Porringoes, Earthen WARES . HOPS, CHALK, GLUE, BRIMSTONE, ROSIN & VERDIGREASE . Japan and Capai VARNISH, Gold LEAF , Spirits of TURPENTINE, Paint BRUSHES and Pumice STONE .
3d & 1st Proof RUM, BRANDY, CHERRY, GENEVA, Sherry and Currant WINES . CODFISH, COFFEE, SHELLS, FLOUR, RAISINS and MOLASSES . Hylon, Hylon-Skin and Souchong TEAS .
A fresh and valuable Assortment of genuine DRUGS and MEDICINES at very reduced Prices, superior to rivalry with the whole train of Imported and Domestic patent Medicines, now in rage; of which are extra's the famous Billious CO. DIAL, Cooley's Vegetable ELIXIR, or Cough Drop, and Rawson's and Wheaton's Ich OINTMENT and BITTRES .
CASH, and the biggest Price given for clean Cotton and Linen RAGS . *Warren, Dec. 5, 1806