The Providence journal, and town and country advertiser (Providence [R.I.]), 1801-08-26 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, Esq. At the NEW PRINTING-OFFICE, West Side of the great Bridge, PROVIDENCE.
[No. 139.]
WEDNESDAY, August 26, 1801.
[Vol. III.]
From the Gazette of the United States.
FEMALE influence over the minds of men will, I trust, be readily acknowledged by every person of candour and judgment. How very important then is it for us to use every exertion in our power to render that ascendancy beneficial to mankind?
Women (generally speaking) are in such a state of strange infatuation, that I fear they will never be made sensible of the dignity of their characters, when acting in their proper sphere. As many are persuaded in their minds, that they have nothing to do, it may not be amiss, perhaps, to direct their attention to the vast field that lies open for us to work in. 'Tis ours
To rear the tender thought, To teach the young idea how to shoot; To pour the fresh instruction o'er the mind, To breathe th' enlivening spirit, and to fix The generous purpose in the glowing breast.
We move the secret springs of government, give the ton to every fashion, and fix the manners, customs, and character of a nation. If we were to act up to these principles, what a glorious commonwealth would be ours! But alas! how differently are the majority employed, in conquering the hearts, instead of subduing the vices of men! How many hours are daily thrown away by the gay and thoughtless, in fixing a ruffle, suit- ing a ribbon, hunting for lace and gewgaws, (fit only for fops and fools) when the time might have been spent in the performance of those duties?
When we turn over the annals of history, and trace the rise and fall of empires, we must observe the former effected by wisdom, valour and temperance, while the decline is always marked by luxury, pride and dissipation. After considering this, and comparing it with the present epoch, I am ready to draw frightful images of the fate of my country. How alarmingly rapid has been the increase of pride! Good women, who formerly thought themselves well dressed in cloth of their own spinning, would now fancy themselves ruined to be seen in any thing inferior to silk. The noble matrons of Rome (were they alive) would look on a modern assemblage of American ladies, as so many puppets, brought upon the stage for no other purposes, than to please the sight of the gaping multitude. We ought to be blush at being so far excelled by the ancient illustrious philosophic dames of Greece and Rome; where shall we now find an Hipparchia, who would sacrifice a life of pomp and pageantry to knowledge, temperance and virtue—or a Cornelia (and many others I might mention) who "never was accustomed to wear rich attires, but such apparel as was very plain and grave, making her children, (whom her instructions and example had made virtuous) her greatest ornaments?" Shining indeed were the ornaments that adorned the memorable sister of Scipio. How worthy of imitation! To undertake to extract pride and vanity from the human heart, and convert the present Frenchified mode into Roman simplicity, would be as romantic and impracticable, as to raise Alpine mountains out of mole hills, or swell fish-ponds into oceans; but to use less art and more simplicity, would certainly be easy, useful, and commendable in the highest degree, as it would save time and expence; and what is still better, the fair sex would appear to much greater advantage for when the person is over adorned we are not apt to expect much mental endowments. I never knew a man of good sense and sound understanding who did not value a woman the more for a decent negligence or simple neatness in her dress. If this last argument has no weight, I shall give up the point, and conclude my sex impervious to every good impression.—Those who believe they were sent here for no other purpose than to flutter, dazzle and die, must have very contrasted ideas of the wisdom of a Deity. In my opinion the greatest, richest blessing, the most conducive to happiness here and hereafter, is the power of doing good, which is undoubtedly bestowed on every one and in every condition; and yet how many do we see spend their days in such a manner that we are almost induced to believe their very existence visionary?—When I become an idle, useless member of society, oh! may I cease to live!—There is no consideration which carries such horror with it, as that of living in a state of annihilation, or to speak plainer, of living dead to virtue—none that would sooner tempt a benevolent heart to the sin of suicide. JERSEY GIRL.
ACCOUNT OF RIO-DE-LA-PLATA.
Extract of a letter from an American gentleman at Buenos Ayres, to his friend in Salem, dated April 15, 1801.
THE Province is bounded on the N. W. by Tucuman and Grand Chaco: it extends S. to the Straights of Magellan, com-
prehending a great part of the country east of the Cordilleras: and on the E. by the South Atlantic Ocean. This province formerly belonged to Paraguay, but was divided from it in 1601, and erected into a separate government called Rio-de-la-Plata. This part of the continent was first discovered 1516 by Juan Diaz de Solis. The climate is temperate and the earth extremely fertile, producing in abundance wheat and all other grains, vegetables and fruit, particularly peaches of a very delicious flavour, which grow wild, and the trees of which afford likewise the principal part of the fuel. The country is overrun with herds of cattle and horses, which are killed only for their hides, the tongues and tallow being scarcely worth attending to. There are besides many rare animals, and birds of remarkable plumage; among the first is the tiger, which is larger than those in Africa, or any other part; likewise the ant-bear, which feeds only on that insect, and is accommodated with a long sharp trunk to draw them from the nests; also the Chinchilla, which is of the size of a small dog, whose fur is of a bright grey colour, and finer than the best silk. This province has been for some years rich and flourishing; since the Calleons have left going to Terra Firma, this has become the general port of commerce for all the province of Peru; to which place, and also to Chili, the merchandise is transported in carts drawn by oxen, which generally go in caravans, and armed on account of the savage and warlike Indians, which still keep possession of a great part of those extensive plains which lie between here and the Cordilleras Mountains, called the Pampas. This country is well watered by different rivers, which all empty themselves into the great river La-Plata, one of the four largest rivers in America. The capital of this province is the Trinity of Buenos Ayres, founded by Don Pedro de Mendoza, in the year 1535; it was soon after its first settling, twice abandoned, being invaded by the Jarres and Charras Indians; before delivering up the city, the inhabitants were reduced to the extremity of eating human flesh. It was restored again by Vaco de Castro, Governor of Peru, who retook it the first time in the year 1542, and the second in 1581, and it was again populated, by order of Philip the Second, by Juan Ortiz de Zarate, Governor of Paraguay, to whose jurisdiction it then pertained. The situation of this city is healthy and delightful. On the north side is a view of the great river La Plata, which appears like a spacious sea, the opposite shore being beyond the reach of the eye; and from all other parts is an extensive prospect of the delightful and level country, always in verdure, and interspersed with gardens and country seats, where the citizens ride and visit for pleasure. The air is pure and healthy, particularly in the winter season, which begins in June, with much rain, at which time the thunder and lightning are so violent, that it is necessary to be accustomed to the country before one can live without fear. The heat of the sun in the summer is tempered by refreshing breezes from the river. The country abounds with all kinds of fruit which can satisfy the appetite of man; among which are apples, pears, peaches, apricots, pomegranates, quinces, figs, grapes, oranges, lemons, limes, and all kinds of melons. The vine is cultivated here, and some very delicious wines are made; but in general, the wine is disagreeable to those not accustomed to it. This was erected into a Bishopric in the year 1620. The Tribunal of the Royal Audience was founded 1663, extinguished a few years after, and re-established in 1783. The buildings, although of brick, are handsome, commodious, and many truly elegant. There are sixteen churches, eleven of which are large and rich; five convents, and two monasteries, two hospitals with rich funds, one for men, the other for women, one foundling hospital, one college, and one academy for teaching geography, navigation, and drawing."
From the American Daily Advertiser.
Mr. POULSON,
As many females are disposed to give themselves much uneasiness during the period of pregnancy, by an implicit belief in the power of their imagination over the fetus; I shall be obliged to you to publish the inclosed letter from a physician to a married lady (extracted from the Gentleman's Magazine for October, 1764) which I think will, if attentively perused by my fair countrywomen, tend, if not entirely, at least in a great measure, to overturn a doctrine, so very inimical to reason, as well as to their immediate happiness. PHILADELPHUS.
August 5, 1801.
A letter from an eminent physician to a married Lady.
MADAM, YOU remember how much I astonished you the other day, by calling in question the wonderful effects of the imagination on pregnant women. You told me, you had not supposed, till then, there was a man living who doubted so notorious a fact. You thought it had never been denied, that a fright, a longing, and various other passions
of the mother, would affect the embryo in such a manner as to produce a deformity, or preternatural appearance, in some one part of its body. At the same time you declared, how happy it would make you, and many other women, could I explode this prejudice, if it were a prejudice, for that you was almost afraid to stir abroad, left some strange object should injure your offspring; and in short, that the whole term of your pregnancy was, on this account, a state of uneasiness and apprehension. In order, therefore, to remove this anxiety, I shall endeavour to demonstrate, that, notwithstanding the almost universality of the opinion, it is one of the superstitions of ancient times, and has no better authority for its support than prescription.
The histories of monstrous births, where the imperfection or deformity is ascribed to some affection of the mother, are numberless; and indeed so authenticated, that an advocate for the power of imagination will triumphantly tell you, facts are stubborn things, and that all reasoning is sophistry when opposed to facts: But the answer to this kind of argument is, that experience shews, it is difficult to ascertain a fact; and that, when we coolly and carefully examine the truth of reputed facts, they are often discovered to have been advanced through hastiness and credulity, and to have been perpetuated through ignorance and servility. It is entirely owing to the fashion of scrutinizing into facts, that the arts and sciences have made a greater progress within the last two centuries, than they had done the preceding two thousand years. Upon this principle, therefore, I shall enquire into the credibility of those histories; and, if I can demonstrate, that they are incredible, you will then grant that these boasted facts are either innocent delusions, or downright impostures.
The productions of nature, in the several classes both of living and inanimate things, are not all equally perfect: We see in birds, beasts and plants, every now and then, an irregular or preternatural formation; but when the accident happens to the human species, an opinion has been adopted, that a fright or some other affection of the mother, in the course of her pregnancy, has wrought the change.—They mean, if they mean anything, that at the instant the mother received the impression, the child was of the natural form, but, by the power of her imagination, the structure of the parts was that moment altered, and assumed the appearance either suddenly or gradually, with which the child was born. They must conceive, that the infant who is born with a large discoloration on any part of its skin, had, before the discoloration took place, a fair skin: That the child who is born with six toes, had originally but five; and again, that the child who is born with one leg or one arm, had originally two; and so of every other preternatural appearance, whether it be an increase or defect of the parts of the body.
Now, madam, to shorten my letter as much as possible, I shall single out a case, from the many narratives published in favour of that opinion: and, by exposing the absurdity of this one example, you will infer, that all the wonderful stories of the same kind are equally absurd. It has been alleged, that a lady advanced five or six months in her pregnancy, has been so terrified by a beggar's thrusting suddenly the stump of an amputated arm into her coach, that the child, of which she was afterwards brought to bed, was born with a stump of an arm, resembling that of the beggar.
Be so good as to pause here awhile, and consider what an operation must be performed to work this effect. A child at the term of five or six months, is of a considerable bulk, and the arm itself not small. This arm must drop off by the power of imagination; there must be no blood lost to endanger the life of the child; and the wound must be healed before the birth. Does not the mere stating this proposition expose its ridiculousness? I am almost ashamed to urge any other reasons to demonstrate the folly of it; but I shall observe, for argument's sake, that, admitting a limb could drop off by the force of fancy, it still would remain with the mother, till the delivery; the bones, at least, would not putrify and waste away, though the flesh should; but it was never pretended, in cases of this nature, that any part of the limb was found by the midwife; and what is also worthy of observing, the stumps of all such imperfect limbs have a smooth skin, which plainly evinces they were, from their first formation, of the same figure; for had there been a wound, there would have been a scar, and scars are very distinguishable from sound skin.
Perhaps you will reply, that, in the instance I have quoted, they committed a mistake who ascribed such an event to such a cause; but that, probably, though the power of imagination cannot work on the large limbs such great effects, still it may on the lesser. In answer to this supposition, I must inform
you that the histories of this kind stand upon the same foundation, and are equally well attested with any of the others, which may appear less marvellous; and if the evidence of the one be given up, the evidence for the rest will fall to the ground. Besides, Madam, a Philosopher will instruct you, that what seems in your eyes little and simple, is as wonderful in its organization; as things of a larger scale; that, to add a sixth finger, or a sixth toe, to a child, is as great an instance of a miraculous power, as to add two or three legs, or two or three arms; therefore you may be assured, that all the metamorphoses said to be wrought during pregnancy, are equally practicable, and equally true.
I believe there is no defect more frequent than that of the hare lip; and it seldom happens that a woman who has a child with that deformity, does not endeavour to recollect either longing for hare, or was frighted by a hare, or saw somebody with a hare-lip, no matter which. A woman, already predisposed, that there must have been some such cause, is no longer at a loss; her memory, or her prejudice, soon furnishes her with a fact, and the instance of this child is added to the long catalogue of forgeries, and false facts.
Discolorations, or spots on the skin, another very common appearance, are soundly resembled, by some people, to certain fruits. I do not mean to enter particularly into consideration of this article; and should not have mentioned it, but to expose the great propensity there is in the world, to uphold one piece of superstition by another. You must have heard, how much it is believed, that these spots grow vivid, as the respective fruits they are said to resemble ripen; and afterwards fade away during the winter season; now, though the affection be false, and the falsehood very palpable, yet credulity has hitherto prevailed over truth, at least amongst the vulgar.
The preternatural configuration of the parts of the body, is a much more frequent phenomenon than the generality of mankind imagine. The deviations on the external parts only, are the objects of their contemplation; but anatomists know, that the internal parts are likewise subject to the same disorders. To take one example out of a hundred. It has been observed, in the dissection of a body, that, instead of two kidneys, nature has only bestowed one, which she has enlarged, and placed upon the middle of the back bone. In this instance, where the variation was imperceptible, till the death of the subject, I will be bold to say, that the mother never suggested any frights or longings as the cause of that effect; and yet the case was as extraordinary as where that plea is advanced. Again, it happens that these preternatural productions occur equally amongst all ranks of people, and in every part of the world; as much amongst those who have never pretended to assign a cause, as amongst the credulous who never want one. If then we grant it to be sometimes an event of nature, why should we doubt that it is not always so? Do we not smile when Sir Roger de Coverly seriously tells the Spectator, that he does not believe Moll White had any hand in the high wind, which blew down one end of his barn?—Storms, we know, are events that must and do arise in the ordinary course of nature; and therefore we laugh when weak people suppose they are sometimes raised by witches and conjurers. Give me leave to say, that it is equally unphilosophical to admit, that irregularities in the formation of a child are sometimes events in the ordinary course of nature, and at other times are brought about by a cause so very disproportionate to the effect: I may justly say disproportionate, since a knife and a saw, or a hammer and chisel, seem requisite for the operation, in some of the instances I have alluded to.
I have before hinted, that not only in the animal, but also in the vegetable world, there is a variety of preternatural productions; which circumstance alone should teach, that whatever be the appearance, that appearance took its rise in the very moment of its formation; since it cannot be presumed, that plants are actuated by any perception or fancy, as women are said to be. But lest you should tell me this is an unfair parallel, and that you do not understand the analogy between vegetables and animals, I shall beg leave to illustrate what I have laid down by another consideration.
Those who have been attentive to their poultry will inform you, that chickens are liable to a preternatural structure of their organs, as children; this proposition being granted, let us proceed a little farther into the enquiry. The egg, in order to be hatched, is placed under the hen, the heat of whose body gives motion to the fluids which nourish the chick, till it becomes sufficiently strong to break the shell, when it is produced with a claw extraordinary, or any other preternatural appearance, to which chickens are liable. Now, in this case, the extraordinary claw, if we take this instance for our argument, must either have been formed in the moment of conception, or been added at some

period afterwards, when we suppose the hen to have been under the influence of some powerful imagination. Which supposition then do you admit? If you grant that the chick was originally framed in this shape, it follows, from the rules of analogy, that all preternatural births have the same cause: If it was not, the fancy of the hen must have operated through the shell to work the effect. I flatter myself, however, that, prone as we are to delight and believe in the marvellous, this is too marvellous and absurd a notion to gain much credit from a woman of your good sense. But, madam, an anatomist will tell you, that, considering the nature of the communication betwixt the mother and the embryo, it seems equally incomprehensible to him, that an embryo should receive an impression from the fancy of the mother, through such a labyrinth of vessels, as that a chick should, through the pores of an egg-shell.
If after what I have here said upon the subject of the hen and the egg, you have still a secret persuasion that the hen may (in some wonderful manner, you don't know how) whilst she is sitting, affect the chick in the egg, so as to alter its frame, know, for certainty, that eggs hatched in dunghills, stoves and ovens, produce as many monstrous births as those which are hatched by hens; which I should imagine proves irrefragably, that the chick is produced in the very shape in which it was formed.
I hope from the light in which I have placed this popular piece of superstition, you are now convinced it has not the least foundation in truth. It is not more than a century since some men of learning gave credit to the efficacy of sympathetic medicines; they believed that sympathetic medicines, like other charms, communicated their virtues to patients at a distance. Learning and good sense have at length utterly banished this visionary conceit; and I do not doubt but, in another century, the prejudice I have been here combating, will meet with the same contempt. Men of letters do even now embrace the doctrine I inculcate; and it is to be hoped, that, in a short time, it will be the opinion of the common people.
I am, Madam, &c.
Domestic Intelligence.
NASHVILLE (Tennessee) July 15. Copy of a letter from Chinnubie, King of the Chickasaws, to Brigadier-General James Winchester.
Chickasaw Nation, June 6, 1801.
FRIENDS and BROTHERS, We received your letter informing us that you had completed running and marking the line between the white people and our nation, with a map of said line. We are glad that the line is run, that no mistake can hereafter arise from ignorance of it; but are sorry to be informed that even within the short time since the running the line, some of the white people have opened and marked a road through our land, on one of the branches of Duke river, which heads opposite Turnbull's creek; we hope sincerely that you will interfere to prevent a repetition of such aggressions.
In pursuance of a Council of the principal Chiefs.
CHINNUNIBIE,
King of the C. N.
By John M'Kee, Dep. Sup. and
Agent of Indian Affairs.
The Hon. Brig. Gen.
J. Winchester.
The subscriber trusts nothing more than the publication of the foregoing letter will be necessary to stop the progress of the aggression therein complained of; but if, contrary to his expectation, any should so far forget what they owe to society, to humanity, and to themselves, as to continue, or commit new and other aggressions; the law to "regulate trade and intercourse with the Indian tribes, and preserve peace on the frontiers," will be put in force against them.
J. WINCHESTER, Brig. Gen.
WASHINGTON, August 14.
On Wednesday evening the students of the seminary in this place gratified a large and very respectable audience, with the performance of a dramatic work called "Caretacus," and a farce entitled "The Toy Shop." The Druid and the Bards performed well. Their dress, though pleasing, was not altogether conformable to the description given by contemporary Roman writers, who represent them with the figures of animals, birds, &c. painted on their bodies. The voices of the Druid, Bards and Britons, were well modified except in one or two instances, where a tedious monotony prevailed. It was very unmitigated to see an officer standing with both knees bent forward. The paintings would not have dishonoured adepts in that art. The singing was excellent; the dancing very good. To command correct gestures, study nature. Let every passion be expressed in the countenance, previous to its vocal expression. The characters were well supported in the Toy Shop; and the whole was conducted to general satisfaction.
PHILADELPHIA, August 18.
Capt. McGregor, of the Schooner Andrew, arrived at the Lazaretto, informs, that the British commandant at St. Bartholomews had ordered the Swedish vessels seized in the harbour to be sold at public auction, on the 23d ult.
Charleston, August 3.
Capt. Fernand, in 50 days from Vigo, was originally from London, and touched at Vigo to land a master and crew from the American brig Jerusha, for this port. He was not permitted to go on shore; but compelled to ride quarantine at some distance from the port.
On the 16th of June great rejoicings took place at Vigo, the shipping in the harbour displayed their colours, and the cannon were fired from all the batteries. The captain of a Danish ship who came alongside of Capt. Fernand, informed him that these rejoicings were in consequence of certain intelligence having been received from France, of the total defeat of the English troops in Egypt; the only particulars Capt. Fernand could collect, were, that some time in April, the French, assisted by a vast number of native troops, had attacked the English forces by surprise, and after a desperate and bloody action, had routed them with great slaughter; the broken remnants of the English army had re-embarked on their return home. These particulars were also confirmed to Captain Fernand, by the master of a French privateer, who further stated, that this intelligence had caused the greatest sensations of joy in France; that the city of Paris was illuminated on the occasion; and a general rejoicing had taken place throughout France.
Captain Fernand wrote up to Mr. Menandez, a Spanish merchant, of the first respectability, and formerly British Consul for Vigo, to obtain some French papers; this gentleman in reply, after informing Captain Fernand that the papers could not be procured, adds—
"The Spanish troops are already in Portugal; they are in possession of two castles on the frontiers of Badajoz, and they are now firing at the castle of Yelva; our troops are in number 45,000, and 15,000 French. If they go on, I pity the Portuguese very much. Some ships have arrived at Mahon, and brought 5000 English soldiers, sick and in health; out of the 15,000 that landed in Egypt, lost 10,000. MENANDEZ."
Captain Fernand further informs, that the contagious fever had again made its appearance in Cadiz, and the southern parts of Spain. The quarantine laws are very rigidly enforced.
[The Vigo news published in this paper so long ago as Thursday last, has appeared in an enlarged form (but not one jot the more authentic) in an extraordinary paper, of this morning; the editor of which observes, that it is "not as correct as it might be expected." For our parts, we believe it is quite as correct as ought to be expected, when the circumstances of time and place are considered. On the tenth of June great rejoicings took place at Vigo, in consequence of certain intelligence have been received from France of the defeat of the English troops, &c. in consequence of which also the city of Paris was illuminated!—Now we have Paris news to the seventeenth of June!—This is enough. There is something incomprehensibly silly in the implicit belief and eager publication of tales so obviously false, whatever party wishes they may favour.]
Philad. Gaz.
The person that robbed the house of William Turner, Esq. of this city, of jewellery and money to a large amount, last winter, and left a letter that requested he would not expose or advertise him, as he was greatly reduced, has returned the money and jewellery, with many thanks for Mr. Turner's forbearance.
CARLISLE (Penn.) August 5.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Meadville, dated July 16, to his friend in this place.
"The only thing of consequence here is, that there appears to be in the people of this country every disposition to rise in open rebellion against the laws. Some time since anonymous letters were dropped into certain houses, posted up in stables, and found in the streets, containing threats and menaces against a number of people in this place, as well the decent part of the Democrats as the Federalists, by which some are ordered to leave the country, others are threatened with the guillotine, and others with hanging. They gave notice to Mr. Gibson, of this place, if he would not turn off a Mr. Foster, an attorney, that they would destroy his property, and two nights ago they put their threats in execution, by burning his stable; the night was very calm, and no other damage was done, but had the wind arose, his whole property would certainly have been destroyed; the incendiary escaped undiscovered. They appear to have a particular aversion to Dr. Kennedy, our Prothonotary, who is much of a gentleman, because he puts good men on struck Juries, which is what of all other things they most detest, because then truth and justice prevail over wickedness and Jacobinism. There is a secret association in this country, in which they are bound to each other by an oath to oppose the law by force. I shall be much surprised if there is not an insurrection soon; we have every reason to believe those villains are countenanced by some people below."
NEW-YORK, August 18.
FIRE!
Between the hours of 3 and 4 this morning, a fire broke out in the bake-house of Mr. John Green, No. 83, Fair-street, which communicated to the Rev. Mr. Stanford's meeting-house. The bake-house was entirely consumed, and the house of worship, generally speaking, was destroyed by the conflagration. There not being any wind to aid the fire, the active exertions of the citizens soon checked its career, and preserved a block of wooden buildings surrounding the spot of the disaster.
The British House of Commons have lately been occupied in the important business of discussing the question, whether a clergyman is eligible to a seat in that House. The question originated in the election of Mr. John Horne Tooke, for the borough of Old Sarum. A special committee was appointed to examine precedents, and a laborious investigation ensued. From the speech of Lord
Teynham on that report, we collect that it appeared on investigation, that clergymen were first called into Parliament by the Crown to support favourite measures; and from the importance they acquired by these summonses, they arrogated to themselves the right of self taxation. From the time of Henry 6th, to Henry 8th, they were considered, not as representatives of the nation, but of the clergy; they acted as a distinct body, acquired the right of calling a convention of their order, and favoured the royal prerogative. In the reign of Elizabeth, they petitioned for the right of sitting in the House of Commons; but their petition was not granted. The petition however was renewed and admitted in the reigns of Charles I. and James II.; but the claim was never exercised. Some precedents were mentioned, but none directly in point. Cases existed in which persons had been excluded from that House, because they were members of the convocation; not simply on the ground of being in holy orders.
A motion to issue a new writ for the election of a member in the place of Mr. Tooke, on account of his ineligibility, was superceded by the previous question, and a bill brought in, to exclude clergymen from a right to a seat in the House.
A remarkable instance of a strong depravity occurred lately in Dublin. A young man of excellent character, clerk to Mr. Tiant of that city, in a paroxysm of mental derangement, plunged into the Liffey; which being observed by a gentleman at a little distance, he stripped off his coat, the better to effect his deliverance. At this instant, when in the act of jumping after the drowning maniac, he observed a fellow steal and run off with his pocket book, which contained nearly the whole of his property. His own imminent danger banished for the instant the recollection of all other, and he pursued and seized the robber; but the victim to a hopeless passion perished: the thief is lodged in gaol to await the punishment due to his offence.
A letter from Lisbon, dated July 9, received by a respectable merchant in Philadelphia, states, that the terms of an armistice between Portugal, and Spain and France, had been agreed upon, it was believed with the concurrence of Great Britain, and had been transmitted from Lisbon to Spain for ratification:—Before the ratifications could be exchanged, advices were received at Lisbon, (on the 9th of July) of some alarming commotions in Madrid, fomented during the absence of the Spanish King, who had been obliged, as a measure of safety, to retire from his palace to Arragon: That Lucien Bonaparte had been desired to hasten with his army to Madrid, to suppress the disturbances.
The writer of this letter is of opinion, that France, on this occasion, will accomplish two important purposes, viz. the subjugation of Portugal, and the disorganization of the Spanish government. Although it was not known at Lisbon what were to be the terms with which a pacification was to be purchased, it was generally believed that the French, either by treaty or force, would finally take possession of that city; and in consequence of this belief, merchants, &c. were removing in crowds.
A gentleman arrived in town this morning from Albany, which place he left on Friday last, reports, that the Council of Appointment have removed EIGHTEEN of the Auctioneers in this city.
August 19.
Information is received from St. Thomas, by Capt. Johnson, arrived yesterday, of the expected evacuation, in a few days, of that island, by the British troops stationed there, on account of the differences between the Danes and his Britannic Majesty being settled. The Danes will probably re-possess all their islands in the West-Indies, lately captured by the English under the command of Admiral Duckworth.
By the Niagara Herald, printed in Upper Canada, we find that the Legislature of that province was prorogued on the 6th ult.
A bill passed the House of Assembly giving to the affirmations of the Friends the same force with an oath, but was lost in council. On this measure the editor of the Herald remarks—
"On this subject, which called forth the abilities of the members on both sides, on the rights of conscience, the public may expect much from us; but it must be noted at the same time, that on a subject so extensive as this, where fully argued, it is not always prudent to repeat what has been said by those who are privileged to say—We will, however, venture to predict, that from what we have discovered, toleration in religious sentiments will gain ground in Upper Canada, notwithstanding the establishment of it, as it respects so many, so worthy and valuable emigrants, has failed in the first attempt."
In the same print are given the detailed proceedings of the Court of Quarter Sessions against twenty-two delinquent collectors of taxes, summoned to appear and render a statement of their accounts.
August 20.
Extract of a letter from Albany, dated August 12.
"The Council of Appointment has already began its mad career; its commencement has alarmed the moderate men of its own party: they all appear to view with astonishment the tyranny of Spencer and De Witt Clinton, and with great regret the imbecility of their Governor. The sensibility of the whole city is uncommonly excited; the resentment of the Council has been meanly extended to their poor door-keeper, James Elliott, a man upwards of 70, who lives in the Court-house where they meet, and is in every way competent to the duties of that station. He has
been displaced to make room for one of their runners at the election. The removal of Mr. Hale and Mr. Henry will soon be followed by that of the Attorney-General. Where this business is to stop, God knows. They pretend to assign the sole reason that it is the will of the people, manifested by the result of the last election; while in their hearts they know the temperate men of their party openly disavow measures so destructive of social intercourse, so pregnant with evil consequences. It is impossible that the reflecting part of the community can longer be duped by men who profess in word, Republicanism ; but in acts play the Tyrant ; who while they preach freedom, proscribe and punish all who dare to differ with them in sentiment."
ST. DOMINGO.
The recent change in St. Domingo is in many respects interesting, and may lead to consequences of great importance.
To judge with propriety of the present measures of Toussaint, we must view them in connection with the past. He has for a considerable time been preparing the way for that step which he has now taken. His system has been not to come to an open rupture with the French government, nor to throw himself into the arms of the British; but to strengthen his influence and establish his power over that extensive, fertile and populous island, in the capital of which he lives.
With this view he has by degrees freed himself from various obstacles, expelled Rigaud, and reduced the whole island to subjection. Finally, he and his assistants have formed and put into operation a new system of government. But even in this system the same policy is in some degree visible. A wish is apparent neither to shock any part of the people of the island, nor to force the French government to an immediate rupture, by disclaiming all dependence on France. The constitution is made subject to the revision of the French government; and probably that government will think it wise to temporise as it has hitherto done, at least until peace is concluded with Great-Britain. Even then policy may probably dictate a compromise rather than an attempt at subjugation, which would at least cost dear if it should not prove abortive. That compromise may perhaps be entered into on the principle that France shall retain some regulation of commerce, or some exclusive commercial privileges, without interfering with internal legislation. St. Domingo will or will not submit to such a compromise, according to the circumstances of the day, and if she submits, will embrace the first fair opportunity of throwing off altogether what she will then consider oppressive shackles.
Such appears to be the line of policy which both Toussaint and the French government have followed, and which they will still pursue.
What influence will an empire of free blacks in the midst of them have on the other West-India islands? Will industry prevail, civilization make progress, and knowledge be diffused in this new state, just emerged from colonial dependence and domestic slavery? Will it preserve internal tranquility, or is it destined to successive tempests and revolutions? Will it flourish and increase in wealth, power and importance? These are questions which naturally occur, but which time alone can satisfactorily answer.
If France should be deprived of the exclusive trade of St. Domingo, it will tend in a considerable degree to diminish her commerce and naval resources. She formerly drew to the value of between 4 and 5 millions sterling a year from her American colonies, of which this island supplied by far the largest portion; and 15,000 seamen were employed in the trade. But if the island should become independent, the state prosperous and the trade free, it will perhaps oblige Great-Britain and Spain to relax their colonial systems; it will at any rate give advantages to the commerce of the United States more valuable than a mine of gold.
The following are the leading articles of the new Constitution.
1st. The supreme executive power is confided to a governor, elected for 5 years by the Central Assembly, the generals of the army, and the commanders in chief of the departments.
Toussaint Louverture is declared by the constitution governor for life, with the right of nominating his successor for five years after his death, when the above mode of election is to take effect.
The governor, in addition to the usual executive powers, has the absolute command of the land and sea forces, and proposes all laws to the Central Assembly.
2. The legislative power is confined to a Central Assembly, composed of two deputies from each department, chosen for four years in the following way; each municipality shall name a deputy, and all the municipal deputies in a department shall choose one deputy to the Central Assembly.
The Central Assembly confirms all acts presented by the governor before they become laws.
3. All slavery is prohibited. All men are declared free.
4. All men enjoy equal rights, and all are equally eligible to office.
GREENFIELD, August 10.
Look out for Phased Dollars.
The dollars which have lately been attempted to be put in circulation, are dated in '97, '98 and '99, principally of the two last dates; they are plated with the best of solder, and executed with great ingenuity and art; they are easily discovered, however, by their bright complexion, the peculiar hardness of the plate, and the E and I, in the word DEI, not standing perpendicularly, but quite obliquely.

It is worthy of notice, that some of the dollars, at first view, appear to be what are called "salt water dollars," but upon examination, they prove to be covered with a kind of very fine varnish, which gives them the hue of dollars which are injured by salt water. This is a new improvement in the business of counterfeiting.
On the examination of the three men taken up on suspicion of counterfeiting money, as mentioned in our last, two of them were ordered to recognize in the sum of 5000 dollars each, and one in the sum of 200 dollars, for their appearance at the next term of the Supreme Judicial Court in Northampton; the former not being able to procure bail, were committed to prison.
BOSTON, August 22.
It is now ascertained, that the wreck of a vessel, mentioned in the Centinel of the 1st instant, as having been towed into Nantucket, is the wreck of the Schooner Sally, which was owned by Mr. Edward Stevens, a planter, of Midway, in Georgia. He purchased the vessel at Killingworth, in Connecticut, the last autumn, and took her new from the stocks. On the 7th of April, Mr. Stevens, with his lady, and a number of their friends, embarked in this vessel at Newport, in Georgia, for New-York. On the 13th, a tremendous gale of wind was experienced on the southern coast, which continued, with various degrees of severity, until the 26th. Within this period, it is probable, the vessel overset, and the passengers and crew lost. The names of the captain and of the seamen are unknown. An unusual interest is taken in the loss of nine passengers, whose friends in Georgia and Connecticut must deeply feel and lament this affecting catastrophe.
Mr. Edward Stevens was a sensible, amiable and pious man. Mrs. Sarah Stevens was a woman of modest and intrinsic merit. Both were esteemed as valuable members of the church and society at Midway. Doctor Lathrop Holmes, of Woodstock, in Connecticut, was endeared to his friends by his amiable disposition, and gentle manners; to society, by his integrity and benevolence; and to the church, by his judicious counsels, and exemplary life. Mrs. Sarah Holmes, the Doctor's lady, was a woman of rare accomplishments, intellectual, moral and religious. By her native vivacity, tempered, and regulated by religion; by her instructive conversation; and by her pre-eminent piety, she at once conciliated general esteem, adorned the Christian profession, and was signally useful in the circle of her acquaintance. Mrs. Mary Stevens, and Miss Nancy Sumner, estimable sisters of Mrs. Holmes; Mr. James Stacy, a worthy man; with two children, of about nine and seven years of age, the one a nephew, and the other a niece of Mr. Stacy (all belonging to Midway) complete the list of passengers, who, by this shipwreck, were doubtless buried in the ocean.
In the cabin were found a silver scissars chain, marked Sarah Stevens, and a cotton handkerchief, marked Sarah Holmes—relics, which friendship will long preserve, and often lave with tributary tears.
* Capt. John Pinkham, of Nantucket, by whose exertions the hull was brought into port, kindly saved these articles "for the satisfaction of the connexions." Eight or ten barrels of rice, and some broken bales and loose cotton, were found in the hold, and have been sold at vendue. The hull, though much wrecked, is of considerable value. The above account is designed to give information to the anxious friends, and to the planters and merchants who were concerned in the vessel, or cargo; and, at the same time, to be a tribute of respect to those whose "memory is blessed."—If the southern printers, particularly those of New-York, will insert this account in their Gazettes, the favour will be gratefully acknowledged.
"More about Egypt."
Another Canterbury story about Egypt, has appeared in the Aurora, copied from a New-York French paper. The story is about an arrival at New-York from Charleston, bringing tidings of an arrival there of a vessel from Bourdeaux, in a short passage, announcing the complete defeat of the English in Egypt, who had lost 10,000 killed in one battle; and that Bourdeaux was illuminated EIGHT nights on the glorious event. No dates accompany this tale; but dates are of little consequence.—The Jacobin caterers, it is well known, are careless what trash they serve up to their hungry guests: They judge that any thing will go down, and therefore feast them on any offal that presents. These caterers, like French cooks, can make soup of any thing; and this story is probably made up from an account brought by Capt. Fernald, arrived at Charleston, from Vigo, in Spain; who reports that on the 10th June there were great rejoicings at Vigo occasioned by the receipt of intelligence, that some time in April the English were completely defeated in Egypt; and that Paris had been illuminated on the event. Vigo is more than 800 miles from Paris. To any one the least acquainted with the series of European information the exposition, of the folly of the above is unnecessary.
President Jefferson has directed a noli prosequi to be entered on the action commenced as the instance of the Senate of the United States against William Duane, for a scandalous libel on that honourable body. However extraordinary, even at this day, this may appear, it is nevertheless true. And the Senate thus insulted the same body of which Mr. Jefferson was President, and to whom, in his farewell address, he "returned his grateful thanks for all the instances of atten-
tion and respect with which they had been pleased to honour him!—That Senate, whose support he solicited to attend him in his new office; and which he declared he should consider as giving it the happiest auspices! and that Senate, to whom, in addition to the "expressions of his dutiful regard as a body," he "asked leave to mingle his particular wishes for the health and happiness of the individuals who composed it; and the tender of his cordial and respectful adieu." Who could believe, after all these honied compliments, that this President would loose from his bonds the false and impudent libeller of so much acknowledged excellence? However incredible, we repeat, it is nevertheless true.
The Hon. Council is summoned to convene on Wednesday next.
STOP THE MURDERER!
The reward offered for the detection of Jason Fairbanks, the murderer of Miss Fales, is increased to ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS.—This will amply compensate any persons for the most active exertions to bring him to justice. No greater reward need be offered.
Batholomew, who escaped from Dedham gaol when Fairbanks was liberated, was yesterday brought to this town, and committed to gaol.—He says, the banditti who broke open the prison were from five to seven in number, with their faces disguised; and that Fairbanks left the gaol about three o'clock in the morning.
It is said, the pursuers of Fairbanks have discovered his rout; which has been through Douglas and Uxbridge, to Killingly, in Connecticut.
The affair of the liberty-pole was certainly no credit to the town of Dedham, or to the county of Norfolk. It was a gross insult to the laws, and which was suffered to remain for several days, and there was said to be a great backwardness among the people to give evidence against the offenders. When therefore a new outrage on law was perpetrated, and Jason Fairbanks, the murderer, was violently set at liberty, the information that a mob had broken the jail in the same town was credible. Such information was received and did gain credit. We are now told, however, that probably not more than five or six persons assisted at the breach of the prison; and that the inhabitants were becomingly zealous and active on the occasion, and liberal with their money and services in favour of the outraged laws. This is good news, and leads the mind to hope that opposition to law, appears in that quarter to be a worse thing than it did in David Brown's day. Good men at all times and every where will of course take the side of law and justice. There can be no laws, or at least no good fruit from them, unless jails are faithfully and watchfully kept. If an offender is pretty sure of breaking prison, the law will be no terror to evil doers, and in such a case as the horrid murder committed by Jason Fairbanks, the very Hottentots and Guinea negroes would put the monster to death.
When the culprits, who broke open the jail and assisted Fairbanks in his escape are detected, we are content it shall be seen whether they were federalists, or liberty-pole democrats. The procedure is of a piece with the middoings of the Jacobins in Georgia, who released from prison the murderer of the Federal Marshal; and of the insurgents in the western counties of Pennsylvania. We do not charge all the democrats as being accessaries to, or in any wise countenancing the crime—we know many of them detest it; but we have well-grounded assurances that all suspected as the perpetrators are thorough-going jacobins.
Providence,
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26.
His Excellency Charles Pinckney, Esq. Minister Plenipotentiary from the United States to the Court of Madrid, failed from Charleston on the 25th ult.
A site has been fixed on for the University of Georgia, in Jackson county, of that state. It is upon the north fork of Oconee river, and about 90 miles west from Augusta. Mr. Josiah Meigs has been appointed President of the institution.
Tripoly demands of the United States a douceur of 500,000 dollars, and an annual subsidy of 400,000. Hostilities, it is said, are to be delayed till an answer is received to these demands.
UNEXAMPLED PROSPERITY.
In 1790 the shipping of the United States amounted to only 450,000 tons; in the beginning of the year 1800, it had increased, under the good influence of the general government, as administered by the Federalists, to 939,000 tons. In 1790, our exportation of foreign commodities, brought into the country for re-exportation, amounted to less than two millions of dollars in value; in 1800 it exceeded 39 millions of dollars. In 1790 the exports of our own agricultural products were about 14 millions of dollars; in 1800 they amounted to nearly 33 millions.
The funds of the United States for the present year are estimated at 14 millions of dollars, the product of the revenue system established by the Federalists. The expenses of the present year are estimated at 11,359,000 dollars, leaving a balance in the treasury of upwards of two millions and a half. [Sal. Gaz.]
Curious particulars relating to the Island of Malta.
The fortifications of Malta are indeed a most stupendous work. All the boasted
catacombs of Rome and Naples are a trifle to the immense excavations that have been made in this little island. The ditches, of a vast size, are all cut out of the solid rock. These extend for a great many miles, and raise our astonishment, that so small a nation has ever been able to execute them. One side of the island is so completely fortified by nature, that there was nothing left for art.
The rock is of a great height, and absolutely perpendicular from the sea for several miles. On this side there are still the vestiges of several ancient roads, and the tracks of carriages worn deep in the rocks. These roads are now terminated by the precipice, with the sea beneath; and shew to a demonstration, that this land was in former ages of a much larger size than it is at present; but the convulsions that occasioned its diminution are probably much beyond the reach of any history or tradition.
It has often been observed, notwithstanding its very great distance from Mount Aetna, that this island has generally been more or less affected by its eruptions, and it is probable that on some of these occasions a part of it may have been shaken into the sea.
It is frequent for one half of Mount Aetna to be clearly discernable from Malta. The distance is reckoned nearly two hundred Italian miles. The inhabitants assert, that in great eruptions of that mountain, the whole island is illumined; and from the reflection of the water, there appears a great tract of fire in the sea all the way from Malta to Sicily. The thundering of the mountain is likewise distinctly heard. The two islands of Malta and Gozzo contain about a hundred and fifty thousand inhabitants; the men are exceedingly robust and hardy, and frequently row ten or twelve hours without intermission, and without appearing even to be fatigued. The ships, galleys, galliots, and other vessels belonging to Malta, as well as the fortifications, are supplied with excellent artillery; and the people have invented a kind of ordnance of their own, unknown to all the world besides.
The rocks are not only cut into fortifications, but likewise into artillery; are hollowed out in many places in the form of immense mortars. The charge is said to be about a barrel of gun-powder, over which they lay a large piece of wood, made exactly to fit the mouth of the chamber. On this they heap a quantity of cannon balls, shells, and other deadly materials, and when an enemy's ship approaches the harbour, they fire the whole into the air. It is pretended that this produces a very great effect, making a shower for two or three hundred yards round sufficient to sink any vessel whatever.
Died,
On Thursday last, much and deservedly regretted, Mrs. Sarah Larned, the very amiable consort of Mr. Augustus Larned, merchant.
Mrs. Mary Williams, wife of Mr. Mathewson Williams, in the 29th year of her age.
PORTER and BRANDY.
John Ward,
Near the Market, Providence, HAS just imported a parcel of Hibberts' best London Porter, and Brown Stout, which he will sell by the quantity, single cask or dozen.
He has also just received,
A few pipes 4th proof Spanish and Cognac Brandy, and has at wholesale and retail, Madeira, Sherry, Port, Lisbon, Malaga and Teneriffe Wines, a few Hhds. St. Croix Rum, Loaf Sugar, and Brown Sugar in Hhds. and Bbls.—Also Hyson, Souchong, Young Hyson, and Bohea Teas. August 26.
GROCERIES,
Just received, and now ready for sale by Samuel Brown,
A little north of the State-house, Providence. Among them are the following, which are genuine:
WEST-India and New-England Rum
Cherry Rum Brandy and Holland Geneva Loaf and brown Sugars Hyson and Bohea Tea Coffee and Chocolate Pepper, Allspice, fresh Raisins, Cinnamon, Cassia Buds, Pearlashes, &c.
ALSO,
Drugs, Medicines, Painters' Colours and Dye Stuffs; all of which are to be sold on the most moderate terms.
He will let the Store Chamber of the store he occupies.
Ornamental Painting and Gilding of various kinds, executed with accuracy and attention; and all favours thankfully received. August 26. 6w.
For SALE, by William N. Rhodes,
30 Chests Hyson 20 do. Souchong 40 do. Bohea T E A.
New-England and West-India Rum by the hoghead or barrel; Loaf and brown Sugars; Coffee in hogheads or by the hundred.
Cash and the highest price given for Flax-Seed and Oats.
Bowers and Bucklin,
Importers of English GOODS,
No. 4, WATER-STREET,
Have just received, and now opened for sale
ONE box low priced 4-4 Irish Linens
One bale Yorkshire Broadcloth and Cassimere
One case gentlemen's fashionable Hats
One trunk Damask Table-Cloths, assorted, from 5-4 to 10-16;
Also for sale, at the above store,
India Lutestrings
Nankeens
China; in Tea and Coffee Sets
And Souchong Tea. August 26.
TRUE BLUES.
At the Golden Bee-Hive,
DARK blue Nankeens, of the first Quality, long Pieces; usual coloured ditto, short Pieces;
A Variety of
Piece and Hard Ware GOODS in general, among which are Women's extra longblack, white and coloured Silk Mitts and Gloves; Cotton ditto, Dimities of various Stripes, and very low; a good Assortment of 4-4 and 7-8 Linens, ditto 9-8 Sheeting, ditto Russia bleached, Linen and Cambric Pocket Handkerchiefs, a pretty Assortment of Thread Edgings, Men's black and other coloured Silk Hose, common 4-4 Carpeting, Venetian and Wilton Stair ditto—Also
SALT, very fine and white, per Bushel, and in Casks of 8 Bushels.
Genuine Spanish Float Indigo, per Hundred or Pound; choice Muscadel Box Raisins, Currants, Figs and Almonds.
Black Morocco Skins, per Dozen or single, of various Sizes.
Wedgwood's approved Ink-Pots, assorted Sizes; India Rubber, black Lead Pencils, Memorandum Books, a Variety of Japan'd and Brass Lamps, best Roman Fiddle Strings.
And at the CROCKERY SHOP of
J. F. JENKINS,
A general Assortment of Crockery and Glass Ware, with which are a Variety of Flower Pots.
Likewise,
DEARBORN'S
Truly just Patent Balances,
A late and important Improvement,
Being a Consignment,
Of all Sizes, for weighing from Ounces to Tons (Use authorized by Law.)
Comparative view of their cost with that of Scales and Weights.
   Scales, &c. Patent Balance.     Beam to weigh 30 cwt. Beam of 30 cwt. at 2 dolls. 60,00   60 wts. of 56lb. each at 15s. each, 150 3 brass case wts. of 32 lb. each, at 5-1-2 dolls. 16,50   1 pair of Scales with chains 15 1 do. of 16lb. 3,00   Triangle 10 3 12 per cent. wts. for 32 lbs. 4,00   1 for 16 lbs. 1,00   1 brass balance wt. 1,25   1 scale and skid 12,00   1 set of right angles 7,00   1 guard 1,00   225 105,75   Saving in favour of Patent Balance 119,25   225,00  
N. B. Should Scales and Weights become such lumber in consequence of the introduction of BALANCES to general use, that they may be purchased for half their present value, still the concerned, fearless of them as rivals, contemplate a rapid demand for the Patent Balances, from the ease, accuracy and dispatch of their operations, as well as great saving in labour, transportation and scaling; and from the great expense and difficulty in the W. Indies of weighing bulky articles, merchants may find them a valuable article for exportation (profit being their object.)
The Brass Weights will be made to agree with the standard of any country for which they are designed, and Hay Weights may for that use be supplied with the Beam Weights, and additional conveniences. Providence, August 26, 1801.
NOTICE.
THE Creditors to the Estate of ELEAZER BALLOUE, of Gloucester, in the county of Providence, deceased, are informed, that one year from the seventh of February last is allowed by the Honourable Court of Probate for exhibiting claims against said estate:—Therefore, all who have any, are requested to exhibit them within that time, and all who are indebted to the estate are called upon to make payment to the subscribers.
EBENEZER BALLOUE, JIRAH BALLOUE, } Administrators. Gloucester, August 25.

Selected Poetry.
From the Port Folio. TO FANNY. WHEN morn returns with blushing pride, O! do I range the mountain's side, To hail with joy returning day, And catch the woodlark's melting lay. When Eve descends with balmy breath, And whispering breezes fan the heath, I fly to hear, on yonder plain, The bird of evening's dulcet strain. Thy notes, sweet Fanny, to mine ear, Are sweeter than the woodlark's air, And the first song-stress of the choir Is discord to thy melting lyre.
From PLUTARCH'S MORALS. OF CURIOSITY, OR AN OVER BUSY INQUISITIVENESS INTO THINGS IMPERTINENT.
IF a dwelling-house, by reason of its ill situation or contrivance, be neither commodiously light nor airy, or too much exposed to ill weather, and unhealthy; it is most advisable entirely to quit such an habitation; unless, perhaps, through continuance of time, neighbourhood of friends, or any other endearing circumstance, a man should become much wedded to the place; in which case it may be possible, by the alteration of windows, and new placing of doors and staircases, either to remove, or lessen these inconveniences. By such like remedies, even whole cities have been much amended, and improved both as to health and pleasantness; and it is said of the place of my nativity particularly, that it lying open to the western winds, and the beams of the declining sun streaming over the top of Parnassus, was by Charon turned toward the east; but it is thought that Empedocles the naturalist, secured that whole region round about from the pestilence, by closing up the rift a certain mountain, from whence a contagious southerly damp breathed forth upon the flat of that country. And now, since there are several noxious qualities, and distempered passions that lurk within the body too, which is the more immediate habitation of the soul; and which like the dark and tempestuous weather that is without, do cloud and disturb it;—therefore the like method which has been observed in curing the defects and annoyances of an ill-contrived, and unhealthy dwelling, may be followed here, in rendering the body a more commodious, serviceable and delightful mansion for the soul. Wherein that it may enjoy its desired calmness and serenity, it will conduce beyond all other expedients whatever; that those blind, tumultuous and extravagant passions should be expelled, or extinguished utterly; or, if that cannot be, yet that they be so far reduced and moderated, and so prudently applied and accommodated to their proper objects; that the mischief, and disorder of them (at least) may be removed.
Among these may deservedly be accounted that sort of Curiosity, which, by its studious prying into the evils of mankind, seems to be a distemper of envy and ill-nature.
Why, envious wretch, with such a piercing ray, Blind to thine own, dost others faults survey?
If the knowledge of ill can reward the industrious search with so much delight and pleasure, turn the point of thy curiosity upon thyself, and thine own affairs, and thou shalt within doors find matter enough for the most laborious enquiries; so vast a heap of offences shalt thou find in thy own conversation, such variety of perturbations in thy soul, and manifold failures in thy duty. To take a distinct and orderly survey of all which, that of Xenophon will be good direction, who said, that it was the manner of discreet house-keepers to place their weapons of war, utensils for the kitchen, instruments of husbandry, and furniture for religious and sacred services, each in several and proper repositories: So every man that would make an exact enquiry into, and take a just account of himself, should first make a particular search into the several mischiefs that proceed from each passion within him, whether it be envy or jealousy,
* Charonea, in Boetia.
covetousness or cowardice, or any other vicious inclination; and then distribute and range them all, as it were, into distinct apartments.
This done, make thy reviews upon them with the most accurate inspection, and that nothing may divert thee from the severest scrutiny; obstruct every prospect that looks towards thy neighbours quarters, and close up all those avenues which may lead thee to any foreign curiosity; become an eves-dropper to thine own house, listen to the whispers of thine own walls, and observe those secret arts of the female closet, the close intrigues of the parlour, and the treacherous practices of thy servants, which thy own windows will discover to thee. Here this inquisitive and busy disposition may find an employment, that will be of use and advantage, and is neither ill-natured, nor impertinent; while every man shall call himself to this strict examination:
Where have I err'd? What have I said or done? What duty? When? And how have I forgone?
But now, as the poets feign concerning Lamia, that upon her going to bed, she lays aside her eyes among the attirements of her dressing-box, and is at home for the most part blind, and drowsy too; and only puts on her eyes when she goes abroad a gadding. So it is with most men, who through a kind of affected ignorance, and artificial blindness, commonly blunder, and stumble at their own threshold, are the greatest strangers to their own personal defects, and of all others, least familiarly acquainted with their own domestic ills and follies; but when they look abroad, their sight is sharpened with all the watchful and laborious curiosity imaginable, which serves as deforming spectacles to an evil eye, that is already envioned by the malignity of a worle nature.
And hence it is, that a person of this busy, meddlesome disposition, is a greater friend to them he hates than to himself; for overlooking his own concerns, through his being so heedfully intent on those of other men; he reproves and exposes their miscarriages, admonishes them of the errors and follies they ought to correct, and affrights them into greater caution for the future: so that not only the careless and unwary, but even the more sober, and prudent persons, may gain no small advantage from the impertinence and ill-nature of inquisitive people.
It was a remarkable instance of the prudence of Ulysses, who going into the regions of departed souls, would not exchange so much as one word with his mother there, till he had first obtained an answer from the Oracle, and dispatched the business he came about; and then turning to her, he afforded some small time for a few impertinent questions about the other women upon the place; asking which was Tyro, and which the fair Chloris, and concerning the unfortunate Epicasta,
Why Noos'd to a lofty beam, she would suspend- ed die?
But we through extreme sloth and ignorance, being stupidly careless of our own affairs, must be idly spending our time and talk, either about our neighbour's pedigree, how that such a one had a Tapster for his grandfather, and that his grandmother was a Laundress; or that another owes three or four hundred pounds, and is not able to pay the interest—nay, and such trivial stuff as this we busy ourselves about, where such a man's wife has been all this while; and what it was that this, and the other fellow have been talking of in a corner. But the wife Socrates employed his curiosity to better purpose, when he went about, enquiring by what excellent precepts Pythagoras obtained so great authority among his followers; and Aristippus meeting Ischomachus at the Olympick games, asked him what those notions were, with which Socrates had so powerfully charmed the minds of his young scholars: upon the slight information whereof, he was so passionately inflamed with a desire of going to Athens, that he grew pale and lean, and almost languished till he came to drink of the fountain itself, and had been acquainted with the person of Socrates, and more fully learned that philo-
sophy of his, the design of which was to teach men how to discover their own ills, and apply proper remedies to them. But to some sort of men, their own life and actions would appear the most unpleasing spectacle in the world, and therefore they fly from the light of their conscience, and cannot bear the torture of one reflecting thought upon themselves; for when the soul being once defiled with all manner of wickedness, is scared at its own hideous deformity; it endeavours to run from itself, and ranging here and there, pampers its own malignity with malicious speculations on the ills of others.
(To be continued in our next paper.)
BANKRUPTCY.
NOTICE.
WHEREAS a Commission of Bankrupt is awarded and issued forth against GIDEON FROST, late of Uxbridge, in the county of Worcester, in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, usually residing in Providence, Trader, and he being declared a Bankrupt, is hereby required to surrender himself to us, the undersigned Commissioners, on the twentieth day of August instant, and on the third and seventeenth days of September next, and on the first day of October next, at nine o'clock in the forenoon on each day, at ALPHEUS AMMIDON's Golden-Ball Inn, in Providence, and make a full discovery and disclosure of his Estate and Effects; when and where the Creditors are to come prepared to prove their debts, and at the second meeting to choose Assignees; and at the last meeting the said Bankrupt is to finish his examination, and the Creditors are to assent to or dissent from the allowance of his certificate. All persons indebted to the said Bankrupt, or that have any of his effects, are not to pay or deliver the same but to whom the said Commissioners shall appoint.
PARIS J. TILLINGHAST, } Com'rs. JOSEPH JENCKES, GEORGE R. BURRILL, August 20.
WAX-WORK.
Moulthrop and Street
RESPECTFULLY inform the Ladies and Gentlemen of Providence, that they have opened, at the Coffee-House, a new and most elegant collection of
WAX-WORK, which has been universally admired; consisting of Thirty-Four Figures as large as LIFE, which are the following:
His Excellency THOMAS JEFFERSON, President of the United States. The Honorable JOHN ADAMS, Late President. A striking Likeness of the late General GEORGE WASHINGTON.
In another apartment the Illustrious Hero is represented as fallen a victim to Death—his Lady and Domestic are weeping around him.
The late General BUTLER , who fell in St. Clair's Defeat, represented as wounded in his leg and breast, and the Indians rushing on him with their Tomahawks. Major ANDRE taking leave of his Honor before his execution.
Mrs. SIDDONS , in the character of the Grecian Daughter, rescuing her Father from Prison, by assassinating the Emperor.
DAVID returning from the Slaughter of the Philistines, with the Head of Goliath.
Maternal Affection, represented by a Lady with her Children around her.
The New-Haven Beauty. The New-London Beauty. The Litchfield Beauty.
A Thief taken upon Surprise. Mungo disciplined by his Mistress.
Old Darby and Joan enjoying themselves over the Bottle and Pipe.
The poor Mendicant asking Alms; and sundry other Figures.
This Exhibition will be opened from 9 o'clock in the morning till 9 in the evening, (Sundays excepted) and will be removed from this town on the 7th of September; therefore, all who wish to see this collection, must improve the opportunity.
Admission One Quarter of a Dollar for grown Persons, and half price for Children.
N. B. The above Figures have been exhibited in several cities in the United States, and are allowed to be more to the Life, and far superior to any thing of the kind ever exhibited in America. August 19.
NOTICE.
THE Creditors to the Estate of ROBERT S. PACKARD, late of Providence, deceased, are informed that a further time of one month, from the 3d of August inst. has been allowed by the Honourable Court of Probate, for claims against said Estate.
RICHARD JACKSON, jun. } Com'rs. PARIS J. TILLINGHAST. August 5.
Twenty-Five Dollars Reward.
ON Friday the 7th inst. the subscriber lost a Black Horse, with one of his hind feet white, and about thirteen and a half hands high, a well carraiged horse, 5 years old, a natural trotter, rather thin of flesh, with a single weltsed Saddle, double reined bridle, and a Ciringle, to a certain man who called his name WILLIAM READ, to go to Bristol, to be gone not to exceed twenty-four hours. Said Read is about thirty years of age, and about six feet high, short dark hair and black eyes, well proportioned, and tolerable likely. He had with him one other horse, which he called his own, about fifteen hands high, a little lame in his off hind leg, of a light bay colour, a pair of black Saddle-Bags with a small brass lock on one end, and a blue Surtout. He also had in his possession two Watches, one of which he shewed to the Inn-holder, where he tarried while in town, on the outside case of which was inscribed, "Dr. William Little, 1797." He had on when he went away, a blue coat, buff-leather pantaloons, and half boots. Whoever will return said Read and the property to the subscriber, so that he may be brought to justice, shall be entitled to the above reward.
STEPHEN SMITH.
Providence, August 12.
A STORE TO LET.
To be let, the Store lately improved by Mr. GAMALIEL L. DWIGHT, on the south side of Market-street, and only four doors from the great Bridge. Said Store is neatly finished for disposing of goods, and the stand equal to any in town. More room in the upper part of said Store may be had if wanted. Apply to
THOMAS JONES,
WHO HAS JUST RECEIVED. A quantity of the best heavy RYE, and has it to sell at his store in Market-street. July 29.
LOOKING-GLASSES.
THE subscriber has just received an assortment of Elegant Gilt-Frame LOOKING-GLASSES, with glass pannels, and ornamented tops, of the latest fashions, as low as can be bought in New-York or Boston.—Prices from 20 to 65 dollars the pair. SAMUEL AMES. July 29. (12 w.)
Joseph Mason
Informs his Friends,
THAT he has removed to Capt. SAMUEL GODFREY's House, at the South End, where he will be at all times ready to attend the calls of those who may please to employ him in the line of his profession. He will keep constantly on hand a good assortment of Medicines, and will put up Medicine Chests for ships, and private boxes for officers and seamen, with particular directions, on reasonable terms, and on the shortest notice. July 29.
To be Sold,
A NEW fall-back CHAISE. For terms, apply to
JOHN C. JENCKES,
At his shop, near the Turk's-Head, where he has for sale, GOLD and SILVER WORK, and JEWELLERY;
ALSO,
PLATED HARNESS-FURNITURE, as low as can be bought in Boston or New-York.
N. B. All persons having accounts unsettled with the firm of JOHN JENCKES and Co. are requested to exhibit them to said JENCKES within three months from this date. $5 Cash given for old Gold, Silver, Copper, and Brass. July 15. (5 w.)
FRESH FLOUR.
Just received, and for sale by Malachi Rhodes and Son,
At the Long-Wharf,
ALEXANDRIA fine and superfine FLOUR; 20 barrels Ship Bread; Corn, Rye, and Wheat Bran, by the hundred or single bushel; Also, One ton of Red-Wood. July 15.
To be let, a convenient tenement for a small family, on the west side of the great bridge, adjoining the back of Capt. JOHN MASON's House, that he now lives in. For terms, apply to HENRY BRICKLEY. Jun 24.
THE Subscriber having lately arrived in Providence from Georgia, takes this method to invite all persons who have any demands against him to call on him at the house of Mr. Nathan Truman, or on Dr. Benjamin Dyer, and receive their money; and as he proposes returning to Georgia in the fall, the sooner a settlement of his affairs can be effected, the more agreeable to him. June 15. EBENEZER JENCKES.