The Providence journal, and town and country advertiser (Providence [R.I.]), 1799-11-06 00:00:00

The Providence Journal
AND
TOWN AND COUNTRY ADVERTISER.
Published on WEDNESDAYS, by JOHN CARTER, JUN. Printer of the LAWS of the UNITED STATES for the State of RHODE-ISLAND, &c. At the NEW PRINTING-OFFICE, West Side of the great Bridge, PROVIDENCE.
[ No. 45. ]
WEDNESDAY, November 6, 1799.
[ Vol. I. ]
FOR THE PROVIDENCE JOURNAL. The Adelphiad, No. XXIV.
MEN are born with talents as different as their faces. Without considering whether men by nature have a superiority of genius, it may safely be affirmed that we are endowed by nature with superior capacities for improvement. Some, it is well known, will have a more retentive memory than others. Some will have an accuracy and quickness of perception, while others will be dull and tardy in comprehension. These again may have a depth and solidity of judgment, while the former will be hasty and erroneous in their conclusions. It may therefore be laid down as an evident proposition, that nature is very impartial in her distributions. What we lack in one respect, is made up to us in another. Let no one therefore despair because nature has not given him the same faculties with another; he may possess other faculties in a more eminent degree. Study yourself—examine your own mind—without partiality endeavour to discover the turn and bent of your genius, and when that once is discovered, follow it with unremitting attention. Excel in your own way, and you will have no cause of regret and mortification. Were all men endowed with the same talents, we must all have followed one occupation.
There was a man who lived not many years ago in this state, who was perhaps as great a natural arithmetician as ever the world could produce. The most intricate questions in arithmetic he would solve in the course of a very few moments, and this without the assistance of any figures whatever. He did not know the use of the pen. No question could be stated that depended on calculation for answer, but by the mere strength of his own memory and unassisted skill, the answer would immediately be given. A benevolent merchant observing the uncommon genius of this man, put him to a school at his own expence, expecting that he had found a Newton in embryo; but, contrary to his expectations, he was found to be one of the greatest dunces that ever existed. His answer to all questions, excepting those that depended on the use of figures, were very contemptible. No human ingenuity could teach him how to read or to write, nor could he explain the principles on which his calculations were founded; all that could be known of him, was, that when a boy, he would frequently retire into a meadow, and by taking pebbles from a brook, he would so shift and transpose them into different heaps, as to be able by these, to fix the principles of arithmetic in his mind. What advantage may be asked could be derived from this vast stock of arithmetical knowledge? None at all. Unable to apply it to any beneficial purpose—destitute of foresight and ignorant of every principle of profitable knowledge, he lived and he died in obscurity. This I consider as remarkable an instance as can ever be produced, that the most splendid talents in any art or science, without a knowledge how to apply them to advantage, will only serve to expose its possessor to derision and contempt. Knowledge, without this, is a glittering diamond in the hand of an idiot.—What boots it to me, if I am able to command all the wealth of Peru, if I know not how to use it? Many voracious literary gluttons, will gormandize literature and swell themselves out into a bloated mass of self conceit, without any kind of digestion. Ask such a character any question on literature, and he will rattle on with quotations from authors like a clock without a pendulum, until the whole length of the chain has run down. When you ask what his opinion is, he will give you the opinion of every one but his own.
This brings to my recollection a story of a painter who was exposing his paints to public auction. Here gentlemen, said he, is a capital piece of mine—Do you not observe the touches of Raphael? Bless me, what a delicate skin—you may almost observe the blood circulating in the veins—it wants but one thing to make it absolute perfection. Nothing, gentlemen, but an head is wanting to make the picture complete. Thus it is with intellectual workmanship—Acquisition of knowledge merely is a fine and finished piece of workmanship destitute of an head. But it is not enough that we should have extensive abilities and likewise know how to apply them, we must likewise have a goodness of heart. Will not this shew the truth of what was stated in a former paper, that knowledge and a good heart must always be united. From a neglect of this good old rule have sprung that species of men whom I will not call critics, but malignant censors. Such characters wish to put up their own broken reputations from the fragments of the reputations of others. By them the eels of science are always caught by their tails. In their writings, for instance, we see nothing but the faults and blemishes of authors, displayed with a certain rancorous triumph and malignant exultation.
Shakespeare like Achilles may be wounded in the heel. Who can gaze at the sun without disregarding his spots—or fancying them made, as the Mahometans believe, by the accidental brush of the wings of an angel. Yet these censors
read Shakespeare, merely to perpetuate his blemishes and to disregard all his excellencies.
Whenever in company with such men, I fancy myself in the museum of some splenetic naturalist, where, instead of observing the beautiful, the sublime, or grand—you see the whiskers of a butterfly—the teeth of a mouse—the belly of an opossum, and a whole collection of monsters, pickled, salted and preserved.
How different from this was the character of a much lamented friend—with a cautious and parental reprehension, he reproved all my blemishes; with glowing sentiments of affection, he praised; averse to the low intrigues of flattery and deceit, he always gave to genius, whether clothed in the rags of beggary or in the splendid robes of wealth, its full share of approbation. More anxious to hide, than to expose the faults of his fellow men, his friend felt a secret pride and exultation, even while his foibles were reproved, to think that he merited such attention.
O.
Foreign Affairs.
From Late London Papers.
PARIS (28th Thermidor) August 15. Speech of citizen Sieyes, President of the Executive Directory, on the celebration of the anniversary of August 10.
DAY of justice and glory, which the destinies of France selected for establishing national independence on the ruins of the throne. I salute thee in the name of all the French! On the 10th of August royalty was overturned in France, it will never again arise. Such is the oath which you engraved on the walls of this palace at the moment even when you expelled the last of the tyrants. Thus disappeared that long succession of despots, whose yoke was become insupportable, who styled themselves the delegates of heaven, to oppress with more security the earth, who considered France as their patrimony, the French as their subjects, the laws the expression of their will, and whose hereditary influence had familiarized us with this ridiculous language, that perhaps, even at present, it does not strike our ears with sufficient astonishment. In this last struggle there remained to royalty, as defenders, the audacity and baseness of a corrupted court, perfidy, infidelity, and the deceitful aid of servitude. It had for adversaries, courage, determined resolution, the enthusiasm of infant liberty, and the generous virtue it inspires. The combat could not be of long duration—victory could not be doubtful. But along with royalty it was impossible to annihilate in one day, all the interests it had associated, all the institutions which were identified with it. In republican France royalty retained then both friends and avengers. The one did not even disguise their efforts to revive it; founding their hope on I know not what fraternity of thrones and the most intimate alliance between the throne and the altar; they armed around us a part of Europe; they re-kindled in the midst of us the torch of fanaticism. The others more perfidious, noisy declaimers against royalty; but the secret, and no less implacable enemies of those who had destroyed it, adopted every kind of language, engaged in every madness, and indulged in every excess, with the double hope of avenging the throne on its real destroyers, and of making it be regretted even by those who had most applauded its fall. Thus the Republic was constantly the but of direct aggressions and of direct attacks equally formidable. Citizens, it is not deviating from the spirit of this festival, to tell you the means employed by your representatives and your magistrates to triumph over so many obstacles, and to unite by these means your patriotism with their efforts: this is always continuing to strike royalty! this is continuing in some measure to complete the glorious victory of the 10th of August. To the open enterprizes of royalty, the republic opposed without relaxation the whole of the national forces; it opposed merciless laws against the defectors of their country; severe measures against all the communes agitated by royalism; indefatigable vigilance to detect intrigues and the manoeuvres of those who dared to speak of its return. And those who at this moment should deny either these means, or the republican spirit of those who directed them can be only madness, or men void of faith. To indirect aggression might have been opposed repressive measures; they are authorized by the laws and the constitution. But because your magistrates are strong republicans, because they know that in this class of aggressors there are Frenchmen hurried away even by their love for the republic, and it would be with inconsonable regret that they would find themselves reduced to the necessity of shewing themselves severe towards those who might serve the cause of liberty, they will rather to reclaim them by earnest and fraternal advice, for they cannot abandon the hope of bringing back to the real interests of the public, men whose actions may have appeared doubtful, but whose intentions have remained pure. It is to these, therefore, that we address ourselves, to point out to them the small number of
false patriots by whom they are agitated and tormented, and who fill their minds with the most absurd ideas, and their hearts with extravagant or criminal hopes. The present circumstances impose this on me as a duty—I am now going to discharge it. Citizens, whoever these men may be, whom I persist in believing to be few in number, foreigners or natives, paid by the enemy, or obeying the impulse of their own passions, desiring the speedy return of royalty, or preferring the return of that terror so justly abhorred by the French. I shall say—shall exclaim—beware of considering as republicans those who have seen in the overthrow of the throne, not the means of establishing a new government desired by the nation, but the right of overturning at all times every thing that may be an obstacle to their private ambition. Those who believe that to establish is always base, to destroy always a glory: who being inveterate enemies of every thing that is order, or which has the appearance of order, wish to govern by noise and not by the laws, who would tear to pieces with their own hands the government they had themselves formed, because a government, were it their own work, could never accomplish according to their satisfaction, all the plans of their ambition, all the dreams of their madness! No, these are not republicans! those who cannot resolve to forgive the oldest and most incorruptible friends of liberty; who insult them even in proportion to the confidence with which they are honoured by the nation, of the services they have performed. Conquerors of the 23d Thermidor, August 10, you to whom the congratulations of this day are addressed, you yourselves have not been able to escape. These calumniators attack every one who have acquired a name; they wish to tarnish every glory.
These are not republicans, whose servile souls cannot conceive that the founders of liberty and the Republic are republicans; who, repeating the delirious insults of the same courts which the 10th of August reversed, and which they avenge, since they become its imitators, still endeavour to impute to them, as the object of their secret wishes. I know not what phantom of a king led round in turn to all those whom they wish to destroy, frantic detractors or hypocrites, who, shutting their eyes against all evidence, persist to be ignorant that the men above all most frequently attacked by this absurd accusation, have a thousand times, and at the very beginning of the revolution, manifested their ardent desire, that the man, whom I will not even name, had always remained, he and his agents, in the ranks of the enemies, instead of carrying uneasiness, mistrust and danger into ours. No! Those men are not republicans, who, through the disguise of their demagogical language, discover their shameful predilection for royal superstitions, and every instant seem to tell you, that since they have attacked a king, they can with more justice attack the magistrates of the people. —No! those men are not republicans, who can perform no other part but that of collecting, inflaming and exciting discords against the established order; those men, who in former times thought it necessary and proper to punish with death all those who durst venture not to be content—those men who could consider peace as an evil, who would regret victory, who calculate upon our disasters as the means of increasing their influence; those men who repose their hopes upon internal distraction, enjoy no happiness but in animosities. They denounce with audacity before the multitude, but shrink back when they are called upon to sign the denunciation. Thirsting for vengeance, they exclaim against the salutary delays which the law prescribes both to save innocence, and to tend with more certainty to reach the guilty. Those men are not republicans, who by the frantic violence of their provocations, strike dismay to the hearts of the sober citizens: who dry up the sources of public wealth, give a mortal wound to credit, annihilate commerce, and paralyze all industry. Who incessantly speak of our calamities, and yet at their caprice increase the number of the wretched—call themselves the friends of the people, and only exasperate instead of serving them; influence each other against the foreign enemy—firmly determined, however, not to expose themselves in the combat.
Shall it be then, that because they repeat with more noise the real emotions of our common indignation against the dilapidators and traitors, that they hope to impose upon you? But have not the people, in their daily experience, learnt that it is not the men who speak the loudest, who are farthest from reproach? That many denounce only that they may not be denounced; and whom shall they persuade that those who govern do not feel a civic grief much more sincere, much more profound than themselves, at the affliction spectacle of the injuries done to our country; at the moment too when they are called upon to find a remedy? Have they given a greater guarantee of their morality and their civism? Do they enjoy a purer reputation? Are they more austere in their manners—more of citizens? And if their indignation be real, instead of these clamours which are only addressed to the passions, and will protect the criminal, because they involve them with the innocent, why do they not wish to assist the useful opera-
tion of the laws, in multiplying, in augmenting the researches, in collecting the proofs, and in fine, in enlightening the magistrates? But why should I hesitate to speak it boldly, their object unquestionably is not justice? What they wish, is to mislead the public by exciting distrust, to overwhelm men's minds with confusion and dismay, to drive the people of France to despair, to gain possession of all authority in the convention; in a word, to govern at every expence. Frenchmen, you know well how they govern! The Executive Directory knows all the enemies who are conspiring against the Republic. In the midst of these agitators, who in truth are but few in number, but who seem to multiply their force by their own noise, they do not lose sight of that other class of royalists, distinguished by an incurable frenzy, fighting for the return of a master, recalling him with their utmost vows, their utmost efforts; justly including among the number of their auxiliaries all of whatever description they may be, who at present threaten the constitution and the government.—They declare that they will be equally inflexible against all the enemies of the constitution; that superior to danger, calm amidst the storm, they will combat all the public foes, undaunted and unceasing—not, however, by playing off the one against the other, for this impolitic game, is cruel, and unworthy of republicans; but by equally repressing them by all those powerful means with which the constitution of the 3d year has armed them, and that immense majority of citizens, who are firmly determined to defend it—to yield obedience to law alone, and at every moment to rally round the guardian authorities.—Vive la Republique!
Further European Details.
By late arrivals at Philadelphia.
FRANKFORT, August 11.
THERE were printing at Milan an immense number of copies of the following proclamation, which are to be distributed when the Imperial armies enter the French territory:
MANIFESTO.
"Suwarrows, commander in chief of the Imperial, Royal and Imperial Russian armies, &c. &c.—Italy is re-conquered! and to you, Frenchmen, remains nothing but the remembrance of your atrocities and robberies. As long as the world exists, the infamy of your rulers will remain, and future generations will curse forever those ruthless men. The last hour of those ruffians is come! Russians that have plunged you into the deepest misery! and who are desirous of ruining the world by a total overthrow of the established religion and government of every civilized state. Five hundred thousand brave warriors are either already upon our frontiers or advancing thither; they come to you, not as you want to come to other countries—to desolate and lay waste—no; they come as your friends and saviours, your deliverers from tyranny and oppression; not as your rulers would wish you to believe, to enslave, conquer, partition and dismember France. They come only to restore your lawful royal government, to renew the sacred rites of religion, to save you from the abyss, and make you a happy people again. Ten years bitter experience must have taught you to be wise, good, honest Frenchmen! I come as your friend: oblivion to the deluded, the sword of justice shall only fall on him who oppresses what is good. Remain, ye citizens, in peace! ye peasants, remain quietly with your herds and flocks! to us, property is sacred—no contribution, no requisition, shall rob you of it."
AMSTERDAM, August 13.
Several printed papers have lately been distributed in various towns of our republic, the tendency of which is to excite the nation to disturb the present state of things. "Brave inhabitants of towns and villages," say these papers, "after four years of a revolution, which has deprived us of our treasure, our goods and our commerce, we are now required to arm ourselves or to lose the only article we have left, our life! at such a crisis, citizens, will you remain tranquil? Will you not oppose such proceedings? You suffer yourselves, it may be said, to be led to slaughter! rise, for your own sakes; for the sake of your wives, your children, and for that of your country."
"I swear by the Almighty that our country shall be saved, our old allies are coming to our assistance, and will treat us with the respect due to a free people; they will overload us with kindness; our commerce will resume its former splendor, &c."
MILAN, August 17.
Letter from Gen. Melas to Count Coccabelli, commissary of government.
I hasten to inform you of one of the most splendid victories we have gained in the present campaign. The enemy's army, 50,000 strong, had advanced to relieve Tottona. Our army quitted its positions in the mountains, and retreated into the plains, in hopes the enemy would follow us; but he would not advance, and we resolved to attack him. For this pur-

pose. Gen. Kray attacked the left wing, and the Russians the centre. The battle commenced on the 15th of August, and was extremely bloody. Thrice the Russians stormed the enemy's centre, but they were repulsed each time with loss. I now took the command of our right wing, consisting of eight battalions of grenadiers and six of Austrian infantry, and attacked the left wing of the enemy. In spite of the most obstinate resistance, and a dreadful fire of artillery, we gained the heights; the enemy were overthrown in every quarter, driven to flight and pursued till late last night. Gen. Joubert remained dead on the field of battle, and Moreau was mortally wounded. We have taken prisoners the four generals Grouchy, Perignon, Belligrand and Colli, from 4 to 5000 inferior officers and privates, and the whole of the enemy's artillery is in our possession. Our own loss in this most brilliant victory is likewise not inconsiderable; but its consequence will no doubt be glorious; and we may hope to see the French entirely driven out of Italy.
(Signed)
MELAS.
FLORENCE, August 19.
The Neapolitan army has marched against Rome, to restore the Papal government.
VIENNA, August 22.
The battle of Novi was the most dreadful and bloody that has taken place since the renewal of the war, and Gen. Melas has gained a never-fading laurel. Had Joubert not fallen, and thus the French army brought into confusion, the carnage might have lasted much longer. This is the fourth defeat of the French in Italy: Kray defeated Scherer; Suwarrow and Melas, Moreau; then Macdonald; and now Joubert. Only Championet remains now to be conquered.
Fort Brunette, in Piedmont, nine miles from the fortress of Briançon, on the frontiers of France, is said to be occupied by the allies, from whence they mean to bombard Fort Sula, opposite to it.
Last night a courier arrived here from the Archduke Charles, who brings intelligence of an action having commenced between his Royal Highness and Massena, which, at the departure of the courier, was in favour of the Archduke. Further accounts are anxiously expected.
SWITZERLAND.
Frontiers of Switzerland, August 25.
It appears now that the attacks of the French in Switzerland and Italy were intended to take place at the same time, and that their operations were combined in such a manner, that Generals Massena and Joubert might, by advancing at the same time, assist each other, and form a junction with Championet, and thus, if possible, draw the Archduke from his positions in Italy. This plan has now suddenly been frustrated, by the grand victory of the allies in Italy. Soon after the French in Switzerland were informed of Joubert's defeat, they began to withdraw from different places to which they had advanced. The division under General Lecourbe, consisting of 13,000 men, had, with much difficulty, collected provisions for a fortnight. Gen. Jellachich had not half that number of troops; but Gen. Hotze has now joined him with 25,000 men, and the fear of being cut off, has induced the French to withdraw from the frontiers of the Grison country.
The attempt of the Archduke Charles to cross the Aur was merely a feint: his head-quarters were still at Kloten on the 23d. He intended to attack the French positions near Zurich, &c. in which the Russians, the greater part of whom have arrived, will also be employed. Large quantities of artillery have already advanced, and part of the baggage has been sent across the Rhine. General Haddick had advanced towards mount St. Gothard.
PARIS, August 26.
In the Council of 500 yesterday, Portes announced the late events in the Upper Garonne; the relation was contained in two letters, the one from the central commissary, and the other from the republic Generals. The substance of these letters is as follows: "The republic triumphs, the genius of liberty prevails over the slaves of kings. The rebels are vanquished, dispersed, exterminated on all points, and the republicans of the South have once more deserved well of the country. The prisons and national buildings of Thoulouze are full of prisoners; military commissions are going to be organized in order to make a selection and to send back to their occupations such as have been misled, and to punish only the chiefs.
Our late victories in Switzerland have cost the enemy 20 pieces of cannon and 3000 prisoners. Championet, according to letters from Genoa on the 11th August, was at Cherasco with a body of 3000 men.
August 27.
The Pope remains at Valence, as he has declared it impossible for him to endure the fatigue of the journey to Dijon.
The troops in Paris have been reinforced by a regiment of hussars. Some dragoons are also expected.
August 30.
Extract of a letter from Brest, dated August 19. Desertion among the sailors and soldiers belonging to the fleet, is risen to an alarming degree, not a day elapses on which our out posts stop less than 20 or 30 sailors and soldiers, Spaniards not excepted; it is high time to prevent such disorderly proceedings; the British cruisers which are off here, have taken some neutrals coming from Brest; several French and Spanish men of war have parted their anchors, during the last heavy gale.
COUNCIL OF FIVE HUNDRED.
Sitting of August 20.
The President—"Before we pass to the chief order of the day, I think it my duty to acquaint
the council that I have received a petition, the object of which is important."—It was read, and was to the following effect:
"The undersigned republicans invite you to examine whether Siéyes did not sit among you until the 10th of May, 1798?—[Violent murmurs.] Whether he did not receive his pay to the 19th May, and whether his appointment to the Directory did not take place on the 16th May last. If these facts be correct, how comes citizen Siéyes, a member of the Directory, in contempt of the constitution which you have sworn to maintain,—Would you become perjured, and have two weights and two measures? Remember what you did in the case of Treilhard. We require you to take this petition into your very speedy and very serious consideration."
The order of the day was loudly called for. The names of the persons who signed the petition were called for. They were Chalandon, Fournier, Le Maître, Duvil, &c.
"It is enough," cried several voices.
Bertrand—"I should always applaud the fortitude of Republicans in support of the constitution; but do you suppose, that this is dictated by a sincere attachment to the constitution, or a regard for the Directorial power?—[No, no, cried several voices.]
Bertrand continued—"Disorganization is the favourite weapon of our enemies. It is only the royalists who persecute Siéyes, because he has fought them energetically and wisely, however they may be disguised. But whatever may be the object of the petition it proceeds upon false data. It was on the 15th of May that citizen Siéyes gave in his resignation as a member of the council of Five Hundred, having been appointed ambassador to Berlin on the 8th—He was elected a Director on the 16th May, so that the year required by the constitution is perfected. There is no analogy between this case and that of Treilhard. I move the order of the day."
Thibaut thought the order of the day was not a sufficiently strong method of expressing the sense of the council respecting it. He moved the previous question, which was carried.
Sitting of August 23.
A discussion took place on the plan of Rollin, respecting political societies.
Languis combated the plan as very insufficient, since it left to political clubs the power of erecting themselves into dangerous corporations. The constitution secured to citizens the right of meeting to discuss political questions, but it appeared to have been overlooked that the constitution requires that the law should limit this right, as well as those relative to worship, instruction, and whatever related to the police and the maintenance of good manners.
Thus the Legislator has a right to make laws and regulations for political societies; but ought he to use that right? This is, in other words to ask whether we are to lose in one day the fruit of ten years experience? Whether France is again to be abandoned to the influence of factions and intrigues? Whether the most dangerous instrument is to be left in the hands of ambition, and whether the public detestation of these societies is to be braved?
He concluded by moving the following propositions.
1. Every society discussing political questions, is bound, on pain of dissolution, to give notice to the municipality of the place in which it meets, and of the time and place of its meeting. 2. Every society calling itself a popular society, or an agent of the will of the people, is dissolved.
The provisions of the 2d article are to extend also to every society which shall correspond with any other, or which shall exact any other oaths than those prescribed by law, or which shall not lodge in the office of the secretary a list of its members (among which are neither to be strangers nor persons deprived of the rights of citizens) who shall appoint committees, and make addresses in a collective name, &c.
Pecuniary fines from 2 to 6000 livres shall also attend the dissolution of the clubs.
Ordered to be printed—and the discussion adjourned.
Sitting of August 24.
L. Puceyveau brought forward the question relative to the establishment and encouragement of private banks. He proposed to address a message to the Directory, requiring to know what legislative measures it thought necessary to the prosperity and to the useful employment of this species of banks.
Sitting of August 25.
Bertrand (of Calvados) brought forward a plan for discussion, respecting expunging persons from the list of emigrants.
Groscassan Dorimond rose to state an important fact. He announced, that, among other emigrants of distinction arrested in Helvetia, were found the ex-constituents, Charles Lameth, and d'Aiguillon. The orator did not choose to enter into the question, how far the law against emigrants was applicable to those who were apprehended in foreign territories, and particularly in Switzerland, the government of which country was pledged not to suffer any emigrants on their soil. The fact is, said Groscassan, that these two persons who were attempting to corrupt our troops, and to spread the revolutionary spirit in the eastern department, were led under the escort of a single soldier of Mentz, where they arrived on the 4th inst. They set off again on the 5th, with expressions of regret at quitting a territory which was so dear to them. The escort accompanied them to the Austrian advanced posts, to whom it delivered them. Such conduct astonished the orator, that while men who were only suspected should be so severely punished at home, those who were abroad were sent back to our enemies. The council ordered a committee to be formed, to report on the subject.
Porte announced a great advantage obtained over the rebels in the Upper Garonne.
Laryse attempted to bring forward in his own name a motion, enacting the penalty of death against deserters. The council refused to hear him, and it was referred to a military committee.
From the PHILADELPHIA GAZETTE.
POLITICAL OBSERVATIONS.
IN no country is the public opinion so violently and so variously engrossed on national subjects, as in the United States. This circumstance is the effect of the democratic quality which is an ingredient of our government. In one point of view, it may be considered as salutary, while in another, and we fear, the more correct point, it presents nothing but the most gloomy considerations. A passion for the discussion of public questions, were it always under the influence of patriotism, and aided but by a moderate degree of intelligence, would generally produce, between the government and the citizens, a coincidence of sentiment, which is not less desirable, than it would prove beneficial. But when this passion is prompted by erroneous ideas of patriotism; when it is precipitated into heat and intolerance by ignorant enthusiasm; or when it is unnecessarily indulged on improper occasions, it may become a vehicle by which artful and insidious demagogues will ride to undeserved eminence, not to say honours, on the passions and weaknesses of the mob.—The structure of the human mind, which is variously and unequally endowed with particular faculties, will forever render it impracticable to unite men in the same sentiments of right and wrong. It is the excellence of our nature, however, where we experience a disparity of genius in one point, to enjoy a superior refinement in some other particular: And it is the object of society, by the association of these diversified talents, to produce a perfect whole, which, while it can act with harmony, will always act with effect.—In numerous societies, such as nations, it is unfortunately the case, that this wise arrangement of Omnipotence is generally frustrated by some malignant passion of the heart. If the earth were to refuse to move in its defined orbit, regularly round the sun, what would be the effect? Universal anarchy would ensue. And such precisely is the consequence of the natural system, when one man, or a number of men, born to move in a particular track, rush out of their proper orbit, and attempt to exercise the prerogative of higher beings.
A popular government, therefore, being composed of various qualities, in order to be successful in its administration, as it regards both its domestic and foreign interests, should study at once to cherish a laudable and temperate spirit of enquiry, and to repress the impertinent fluttering of vanity, and punish the vulgar animadversions of emboldened ignorance. To do this is to evince its fullest dignity; for no government can be dignified which has not the power to prevent insult, and no one will be respected, which is at the mercy of every traducing tongue.
In France, as present, and indeed during the whole of the late extraordinary convulsion in that country, we have seen the effects of a licentious spirit of freedom prevailing among the people.—Men, whom the temporary applause of the mob has at one moment exalted to command, have as suddenly become the victims of their fury. From being the idol, they have become the execration of the populace. And yet are there among us, men who pretend to admire a system of government which fluctuates with every change of public opinion!
In this country, a spirit similar to that which riots on blood in the former, has more than once exhibited alarming symptoms of fury; and but for the honourable predominance of public virtue in the majority, would, ere this, have obscured the honours of a WASHINGTON, and immortalized the honest fame of his revered associates in war and government! For a while, popular clamour had overpowered reason and consideration; and public merit was shrouded with partial disgrace. As yet the prudence of the majority, and the ready and inflexible perseverance of the government, have triumphed over these temporary paroxysms. But we know not how soon the contrary may occur. We have indeed reason to tremble for the Ark of the Constitution , since we behold men, whose fealty to it was undoubted, join in the acclamations of itsiders, and by unguarded suggestions, perplex and impede the administration!
Our transactions with foreign nations have generally occasioned the most alarming dissensions in the public opinion. In rebellion we have been born; and, as it prone thereto by our nature, we seem to seek pretexts for internal hostility. We have more than once been, as it were, on the borders of a civil war—and for what?—For ourselves?—No; it has been either for England or France, that we have divided, that our children have been taught to hiss curfews!—Our own country has been thrust from our hearts, and we have panted to fight the battles of a foreign one! It were painful to revive the recollection of these grievous abhorrences, but for the hope, that by viewing their folly, we may in future be prompted to avoid a repetition of them.
On the subject of our disputes with France, uncommon acrimony has been excited. It was but natural that the honest spirit of our countrymen should be roused into indignation by the copious treatment which our envoys received from the government of that country. After such unjustifiable conduct, it was but right to require that the first advances on the road to conciliation should be made by those who had so grossly violated not only the laws of nations, but the laws of hospitality; and it was for the Executive alone to appreciate the nature and weight of the assurances which were requisite previous to the renewal of negotiations. Whatever may be the situation of Europe, it should be a paramount object with us to avoid being involved in a war with any of its nations. It would be preferable even to sacrifice to this purpose, the " etiquette of courts ." It is better to be humble in our endeavors to avoid a ruinous war, than by stubborn pertinacity or unyielding animosity, to provoke one. It was therefore both candid and honourable in the President to declare, that until he should receive assurances, to him satisfactory, that any future attempt to negotiate, would be received by the French government, with a reciprocal spirit of amity and a due degree of respect, he would forbear all conciliatory measures. It was also proper, that after this declaration, resort should be had to defensive preparations; that in any possible issue we might be ready either to encounter war or to re-commence negotiation. This was the most prudent and honourable demeanour: It was at the same time inviting the languishing virtue of the French government to a fair opportunity to be restored to the friendship of her ally, and acquitting our government from the charge "of a wanton determination to provoke a war."—These transactions, as was reasonably foreseen, had their proper effect:—They wrought powerfully on the self-interest of the French nation; and the late agents of the outrage on the dignities of our government, were the first and loudest in offering apologies for their misconduct. Proclamations have been made, declarations have been repeated, and promises multiplied. The President has received these declarations through a confidential channel, and relying on their sincerity, has nominated a new embassy. Here we are tempted to pause, in order to lament that misguided zeal by which some men, who have professed an admiration of the wisdom and integrity of the administration, have been prompted to arraign the policy and expediency of this measure. Self-opinionated and rash, before they knew the nature of the assurances received, or even that any had been offered; and forgetting the precepts which they themselves had advocated, respecting executive dignity, thoughtlessly commenced an outcry, which has been more fatal to the cause of federalism, than the united calumny of its opponents: and which is still uttered in "fuller murmurs!" A daring foreigner, with an effrontery which is only tolerated for its eccentricity, has treated the measure, and its advisers, with audacious ribaldry; and in language unequivocal, impeached the integrity of the motives with which it is pursued. Yet, notwithstanding this torrent of invective, and this deflection of friends, we have seen the administration undeviating in its pursuit of peace: We see the affection and confidence of the people encircling the person of its officers; and nothing interposing the approach of a reconciliation with France, but the unhappy and distressed condition of that country. The storm there, perhaps, will soon subside; And with this expectation we have seen the impending mission suspended. It is now resumed.
Of the exercise of the executive functions it becomes every one either to be silent, or to speak with the utmost deference and respect. Indeed, it ought to be raised above the popular voice, except when given in a collective form. The individual who exercises them, is always to consult his own knowledge on the matter which his duty may bring before him, independent of the public sentiment. From his commanding station, he is enabled to survey more extensively, and to discriminate more accurately the variety of shades which the same subject may assume, to different judgments, acting under different circumstances and impressions. Hence it is not only imprudent but highly pernicious, to countenance a spirit of animadversion on the operations of the executive department. Being in their nature confidential, and
often necessarily private, those only who are engaged in them are competent to decide on their propriety. Let us therefore believe, that in every transaction of this department, and particularly that to which we last alluded, a sincere desire to promote the general honour and happiness predominates. Let us not, when the policy of any particular act is beyond our discernment, descend to ungrateful repinings, or break out in the utterance of dispar. The virtue of our government is its best bulwark. It only requires the energy of its friends to ensure its perpetual duration.
In concluding these observations, which are the result of a few moments reflection, one instructive fact irresistibly obtrudes itself upon the dispassionate mind—a fact, which ought to give a very different turn to the present dependency of certain weak federalists. It is a truth, too much lamented to be doubted, that the recent successes of the opposition party are more owing to the imprudences and follies of ourselves, than to any merit or exertion in them. In one instance we have suffered a petite , whose venom is alike delirious to the good and the bad, as his national habits or personal prejudices dictate. Flattered into audacity, by the misplaced patronage of a respectable class, from being the scavenger of political filth, he has lately entered the sanctuary of our cabinet, and with his polluted hands, sullied the character of our chief magistrate. To him, principally, and not to the new mission to France, may be attributed the success of judge McKean. What future political miseries may be produced by his efforts are incalculable—we hesitate to dilate on a subject so distressing.
The Fanatic of political corruption, the infamous retailer of abusive falsehood, here alluded to, will term these observations jealousies , because they are not surely British; sordid and mercenary , because they are dictated by the best wishes for the happiness of this country! This mode of reasoning is unworthy of notice: we consign it, with its author, to that abyss of disgrace and contempt , from whence it is to be hoped the good sense of the people of this country will never permit them to ascend.
Domestic Articles.
PHILADELPHIA, October 28.
Extract of a letter from Porto Rico, 10th September, 1799.
I HAVE seen the orders of Gen. Desfourneaux, of Guadalupe, to the captains of privateers—they are to take all Americans coming from or bound to any port whatever.—In consequence thereof, six privateers have already failed, and as many more commissions have been received a few days since; so that the risk will be very great to Americans in general, and particularly as there are no vessels of war belonging to the United States to be seen in these seas."
NEW-YORK, October 24.
The French are remarked for their intrigue and cunning, yet like other cunning men, are often the dupes of their own intrigues. It has been the policy of their Councils, for more than a century, to attempt to reduce the powers of Great-Britain by war. The event has proved the weakness of the policy. Every war has ended in extending the trade, the resources and the naval power of Great-Britain.
This result is not surprising; it is the natural consequence of the policy of Great-Britain, which is, to bend the main energies of the nation to increase her navy, and to furnish it with able officers and seamen.—This policy has been steady and unvaried, from the days of Cromwell, who formed the cradle of the British naval power in the establishment of the navigation act.
The Dutch, the French and the Spaniards have, at times, pursued a similar policy; but their measures have been less systematized and less steady. A great naval power depends on an extensive and permanent trade, especially the carrying trade. The Spaniards, by their jealousy, restrictions and monopolies, abridge their own commerce, and thus cut up by the roots the nursery of seamen. The Dutch have paid more attention to commerce than to a navy, yet notwithstanding their neglect of the navy, they are found to be the most formidable enemies of Great-Britain on the water.
If the continental powers, who are the rivals of Great-Britain in commerce, do not change their policy, they will always be subordinate on the ocean. One or two more wars will exalt the British navy, and give it command of every valuable branch of trade in both the Indies; for during war, the British augment their force, and what is more, improve in seamanship and naval tactics. Nothing can ruin the British maritime force but a long peace, in which her seamanship and discipline shall be lost, and her great officers shall pass off the stage. Such a peace would reduce her power more nearly on a level with that of her rivals. Great-Britain would necessarily lose much of her strength in experienced officers and discipline; while her rivals would gain strength by an accession of seamen and ships.
It is expected that Great-Britain must sink under the weight of her debt. But this is problematical—for the experience of a century proves that the growth of her trade and industry is equal to the augmentation of her debt, and enables her to meet the demands of the nation. It is far from being certain that the one will not run commensurate with the other.
October 26.
On the 16th Thermidor, Louis Nicholas Molin, aged 29 years; Pierre Michel, brigadier-general, aged 59; Barthélemy Leveille, chief of brigade, aged 42; Thomas Mondion, chief of brigade, aged 40; Jean Edouard Viand, aged 29; Joseph Pironneau, butcher, aged 22; Toussaint Dufourt, aged 44; and Pierre Paul, municipal officer of the commune of the Cape, aged 55, were condemned to death, and the commander in chief of the district ordered to see them diligently executed within the space of 24 hours, in conformity to the 61th article of the penal code, of the 3d Brumaire, year 4, which is couched in these terms: "All conspiracies and plots tending to disturb the republic by a civil war, in arming the citizens against one another, or against the exercise of the legitimate authority, shall be punished with death, as long as that punishment shall exist, and by twenty-four years imprisonment in irons, after it shall be abolished."
They were condemned by four out of five voices of a court-martial, assembled at the Cape, by order of citizen Henry Christophe, chief of brigade, and commander in chief of the district of the Cape.
NORWICH, October 22.
In pursuance of an act of the Legislature of Connecticut, the executive of that state has con-

veyed to the United States, the forts Trumbull and Griswold, which command and defend the harbour of New-London.—The former of these forts is in a respectable state of repair, with heavy cannon mounted.
NEW-PORT, October 29. On Wednesday last Major-General C. C. PINKNEY, with his lady and daughters, failed on board the Packet Concord, for Elizabeth-town Point (N. J.) from whence he will immediately proceed to Trenton.—During his residence here the General visited Forts Adams and Wolcott, accompanied by the Engineer, Major Toussard. The General also visited the different Sites where fortifications are to be erected, and expressed the highest satisfaction at the selection of situations, as well as the entire approbation of the works which have been already erected, being fully impressed with an opinion of the practicability of rendering this important harbour perfectly secure from the attacks of an enemy by an extension of the plan of fortifications already contemplated. By the invitation of Commodore Barry, the General visited the frigate United States, where he was received by the commodore and officers with the most marked respect and attention, the yards were manned and three cheers given by the men when the General went on board the ship, which was repeated and a federal salute fired on his leaving her.—The General during his short stay in this town, inspired a very general respect and veneration for his talents and virtues, which, united with the recollection of his past services, cannot fail to insure him an affectionate reception wherever the true American character is respected and esteemed.
BY THE LAST MAILS. Latest European Intelligence. By an arrival at St. John's, (N. B.) from Grenock, (Scotland) in fifteen days. The English official accounts from the army in Italy, have been esteemed for their perspicuity, accuracy and liberality:—We should, therefore, deem ourselves deficient in duty, were we to omit the preservation of the following.
Of the Battle of Novi. DOWNING-STREET, SEPT. 9. From Lord W. BENTINCK, to Lord GRENVILLE. Novi, August 16, 1799. MY LORD, THE column under the command of Gen. Kray arrived at Alessandria from Mantua on the 12th and on the day following was to have proceeded to the place of its destination on the left of the whole, according to the plan of operations which I sent your Lordship some time ago. On the 12th, the enemy was in motion in different points, and it appeared as if he meditated some attack. Gen. Kray was therefore ordered to remain at Alessandria till further orders. Gen. Bellegarde, with eight thousand men, was at Seizo, and the Field Marshal, with six thousand Russians, was at Poffolo Formigoni; his advanced posts in front of Seravelle. The remainder of the troops were at Rivolta. On the 13th the enemy continued to advance in great numbers. The Marshal had given orders that no partial action should be engaged in with the French; in consequence of which Gen. Bellegarde was directed upon the approach of the enemy to march to Rivolta, upon the Orba. The advanced posts before Seravelle, to Novi. On the 14th Gen. Kray advanced to Treffonara. It was hoped that Gen. Kray might have been able to have cut off a small French column which had followed Gen. Bellegarde as far as Castelferrio, but had early on the morning of the 14th turned to the right, and had marched to Novi, where the whole French force was concentrated. The great and extensive plain of Piedmont is terminated at Novi by a very long ridge of hills which rise so suddenly, and are so steep that the ascent is extremely difficult, though the height is not very great; they extend towards Basaluzzo on one side, and towards Seravelle on the other, and upon these heights the enemy was encamped on the 15th, their right towards Basaluzzo, overlooked the whole plain. The army was commanded by Gen. Joubert, and consisted of six divisions, amounting to about thirty thousand men; their object was to raise the siege of Tortona, and they were to have attacked the allied army on the 16th; the Marshal, however, determined to anticipate them in their intentions, and orders were given to Gen. Kray to take under his command the corps of Gen. Bellegarde, and to fall upon the left of the enemy, and the Russians were to attack the front of their position. As it was reported that the enemy had detached a considerable corps in the mountain towards Tortona, Gen. Melas remained at Rivolta, with the remains of the army in order to cover the siege of Tortona, or to march to the support of the Marshal, if necessary. The attack was made by Gen. Kray at 5 o'clock in the morning of the 15th; it continued with great violence for several hours, but the difficulty of the ground and the numbers of the French obliged him to retire. The Russians also engaged the front of the enemy, but they were repulsed with very great loss. About two o'clock Gen. Kray made a second attempt upon the enemy's left, while the Russians at the same time again endeavoured to penetrate the centre of the enemy's line. Notwithstanding the utmost bravery of the allied troops, the French maintained their position. Most fortunately, at this moment, Gen. Melas arrived with sixteen battalions of Austrian infantry, attacked the enemy's right, which he beat back without difficulty. Having turned the flank of the enemy, he pursued his advantage, and got possession of Novi, supporting the attack of Gen. Melas with great vigour, and the whole French line was thrown into confusion, and retreated in the greatest disorder. The whole line pursued.—
Gen. Grouchi, commanding a division, endeavoured to rally his men, but in vain; he was taken prisoner. Three other Generals, Colli, Bordone and Petiguan; four thousand prisoners, thirty pieces of cannon and fifty-seven tumbrils, are the result of this victory. I fear the loss of the allies must have amounted to near five thousand men. I forgot to mention that Gen. Joubert was killed, and that Moreau, who was present as a volunteer, has again taken the command of the army. I have the honour to be, &c. W. BENTINCK.
Affairs of Holland. LONDON, September 9. Official advices have been received by government, that a deputation of the friends of the house of Orange, at Amsterdam, had been received by Gen. Abercrombie, promising their active aid in seconding the operations of the British army, in reinstating the Stadholder; and that part of the province of West Friesland, Midenbick, Hoorn, &c. had followed the example of the loyal seamen of the Republic, and had shaken off the yoke which French superiority, and Dutch pusillanimity had fixed upon them. The Orange flag is flying on the whole coast, as far as Egmont, and in the interior country. A flotilla has been ordered by Admiral Mitchell, into the Zuyder-Zee, to assist the military operations. The Dutch ships taken in the Texel, &c. are on their voyage to England, for repair and safe keeping.
Russians arrived. Seven sail of Russian Men of War, with about 6000 troops, have arrived at Yarmouth Roads, and are to proceed immediately for Holland. 20,000 more passed Elsinour two days before them. The combined forces in Holland will exceed 70,000 men. The Emperor Paul, though slow in adopting, is prompt in the execution of every measure, to effect the object of the coalition. All the energies of his mighty kingdom are in activity against France and its friends. He has lately, in addition to other measures, ordered his minister at Berlin, to quit the Prussian Court without taking leave. This measure must accelerate the decision of the wavering and contemptible monarch of that kingdom.
Capture of a Spanish Convoy. The Sylph sloop of war, arrived at Plymouth, brings advice of the capture of a Spanish convoy of sixteen transports, laden with naval stores and provisions, and bound from Rochefort to Brest, by a squadron of British frigates, under Capt. Keats. They failed from Rochefort under protection of five sail of Spanish ships, which some time since put in there from Ferrol; and the transports, to avoid our cruisers, attempted to pass through the Raz, where Capt. Keats was fortunate enough to fall in with them. The Spanish ships put into Quimper Bay; but as Lord Bridport had dispatched a squadron, under the orders of Sir John Borlase Warren, with instructions to attack them in the Bay, we have great hopes of their speedy surrender.
News from India. GLASGOW (Scotland) Sept. 14. This day's Irish mail brings intelligence, that the captain of the Carysfort English frigate had passed through Dublin, for England, with glorious intelligence from India. Extract of a letter from Galway (Ireland) Sept. 8. "I have the pleasure to inform you, that an East-India packet arrived this day in our port, and brings the glorious intelligence of the CAPTURE OF SERINGAPATAM, the capital of the dominions of Tippoo Saib, by the British troops. Tippoo himself was killed in the battle which preceded the capture."
LIMERICK (Ireland) Sept. 8. The Carysfort frigate has arrived here from India. The captain is going for London, expresses. An American vessel has arrived, which spoke the Carysfort frigate at sea, and received from on board the information of the death of Tippoo, and the capture of his dominions, by the English.
Providence, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6. On Wednesday last Governor Davie and Judge Ellsworth, two of the commissioners appointed to treat with the French republic, arrived here, and the next day proceeded for Newport, where they embarked on board the frigate United States, Commodore Barry, for Europe. She sailed on Sunday last with a fair wind, and it is reported will land the Commissioners at Hamburg.
We are assured from good authority that the President of the United States has received, immediately from the French government, a letter containing the most ample and explicit assurances, that the envoys from the United States would be received in France, with that dignity and respect which became the representatives of a great and powerful nation; and that on their arrival at Paris, a minister of equal grade, and with full powers, would be appointed to treat with them.
Thursday the 28th Day of November inst. is to be observed as a Day of Public Thanksgiving, Prayer and Praise, throughout this State.
Great rejoicings, civic feasts, &c. have taken place among the sons of Belief in Philadelphia, in consequence of the "man mountain" of the Jacobins, Thomas M c Kean, having been elected Governor of that State.
The missionaries sent from England to Otaheite, in the Pacific ocean, have been obliged to quit that island, to escape being murdered by the natives. They have arrived at Botany Bay.
On Tuesday the 2d instant, the circuit court for the district of Pennsylvania, adjourned their session, without proceeding on the trials of any of the prisoners indicted for treason. Jacob Eyerman, a German minister, and about twenty others, were tried and found guilty of misdemeanors, but no sentences were passed. The parties were bound over to the next stated or special court.
The birth day of our illustrious President, was celebrated at Boston, with a decency of ceremony which becomes the friends of order, and with that patriotic fervor which reflects honour on united and enlightened freemen.
The wheel of fortune turns fast. The French, who were lately waving their cap of liberty on the top, are now grovelling at the bottom of the wheel. They are like the Ishmaelites of old—hated, despised and avoided by every body—"their hand is against every man, and every man's hand is against them." Scarcely two years have elapsed since their thundering cannon awed the world, and the din of arms struck terror to the hearts of Europe. Now the scene is changed, and the face of every Frenchman is turned, for protection, towards his own country, while his rear is pelted with Russian bullets, or galled by the well directed stroke of the Hessians' sabre. Buonaparte, Moreau and Massena, with a long list of heroes, are now retracing their steps—and, in the quaint phrase of an elegant writer, "doing penance for past folly." [R. Gazette.]
The Milanese lately adopted a curious mode of ridiculing modern innovations in dress, by exhibiting the public Executioner and his wife in the full dress of fashion. This is bringing finery to an untimely end.
Suwarrows, it is said, never carries a farthing of money, nor a watch in his pocket. In his quarters he cannot bear the sight of a looking glass, and says, he has not looked at himself for these forty years past. London Paper.
In a late sitting of the Council of Five hundred a citizen presented a pamphlet, intitled, "The art of making one beloved by one's wife."—This produced a general laugh, and it was ordered to be mentioned in the Process Verbal, and deposited in the national library.
Joubert was married while on his way from Paris, to take command of the army of Italy. His bride was virgin; wife and widow, in the course of twenty days.
Women are like citadels—some are taken by storm, others withstand a long and vigorous siege. Sunday se'night was married at Hollywell, after a courtship of twenty-one long years, Mr. Chambers, artificial flower maker, aged 45, to the agreeable and accomplished Miss Louisa Davis, at the blooming age of 76! The bridegroom is also an hero of the "sock and buskin," and is well known in several strolling companies by the name of Graves. [Lond. paper.]
The usual way of curing a cold in Sweden, is to dip a tallow candle into a tumbler of warm beer, and to drink the unctuous composition off at one draft, which, they assert, seldom fails effecting its intended purpose.
From late JAMAICA PAPERS. KINGSTON, September 17. A very well informed supercargo or owner of a vessel from Aruba, bound to -----, and recently in Curacao, has been brought to this port by one of his majesty's ships. He reports having received Hamburg Gazettes of a very recent date, wherein it is expressed that the king of Prussia had headed in person an army of 45,000 men, and that the major part thereof were so far advanced in the interior (Amsterdam) that the burghers in general were in the utmost expectancy of his advanced guard establishing the entire conquest of the late states. It was so generally accredited in Curacao, that the republican flag staff was lowered to the ground; and the many republican French that were then in that Island, were desirous to depart the colony by any means. The informant believes the report to be true, and from his respectability, little doubt may be entertained of what he advanced being confirmed by the first arrival from Europe.
DISCOVERY IN DISTILLATION FROM POTATOES. Which will no doubt increase the cultivation of that valuable article of life.
Potatoes have been found by repeated experiments, to yield by distillation a vinous spirit of almost exquisite quality; superior to the finest brandy; and in the quantity of about five quarts, highly rectified, from the quantity of seventy pounds weight.
In the process the loss of time and expence inseparable from malt distillation, are avoided: the potatoes are boiled to a thin pulp which is diluted with hot water, and strained; the mass is then fermented with barm for about a fortnight; and then distilled in the usual way.
The spirit yielded possesses a strong flavour and perfume of raspberries, and is not liable to be soiled by what is called the feint coming over the helm; as the very last and weakest part that comes off the still, is equally sweet with the first. These facts were long since ascertained to the satisfaction of the Bath Society, by Dr. Anderson. [Com. Av.]
Died. In this town, in the 74th year of her age, Mrs. Esther Ward, relict of the late Secretary, Henry Ward, Esq. after a lingering and most distressing sickness, which she supported with firmness and fortitude, consequent on a belief of the christian religion. Mrs. Mary Turner, aged 26, consort of Mr. Amos Turner, mariner, and daughter of Captain John Griffith.—remarkable for industry, meekness and sobriety. Mr. Levi Anthony, aged 33 years.
Port of Providence. ENTERED. Sloop Hiram, Presbury, Taunton; sloop Welcome, Thornton, Middleton; brig Murfey, Hays, Lisbon; sloop Warwick, Russell, New-York; sloop Claudia, Westcott, Cape Francois; sloop Caroline, Ward, Middleton. CLEARED. Brig Fanny, Wheaton, Surinam; sloop Lucy, Gregory, Charleston; schooner Ruthy, Love, Charleston; sloop Neptune, Arnold, New-York; sloop Cordelia, Anthony, New-York; brig Fair, Bowler, New-Providence; brig Lotty, Graves, New-Providence.
THE Subscribers having entered into a co-partnership, under the firm of Bowers and Bucklin, request all who are indebted to either, to make immediate payment. CALEB BOWERS. JOHN C. BUCKLIN.
They have just received a very extensive assortment of DRY GOODS, which they offer for sale, at a very small advance, at No. 1, Cheapside. November 6.
Rhode-Island District. BY virtue of a warrant from the Hon. BENJAMIN BOURN, Esq. Judge of the District Court for Rhode-Island District, Notice is hereby given to all persons concerned, that a libel is filed in said Court by William Bradford (the gd) and others, against the sloop Good-Intent, her tackle, apparel, furniture, &c. (as she now lies in the port of Bristol) for wages, alleged to be due to the said William and others, seamen on board said sloop—and that trial will be had upon said libel at a District Court to be holden in Providence, on the twentieth day of November instant, at ten o'clock in the morning. W. PECK, Marshal. Providence, Nov. 4, 1799.
Rufus Greene, Bookseller and Stationer, Second shop westward of the Great Bridge, South side of the street.
SOLICITS the patronage of the public, and respectfully informs them, that he has just received, and now offers for sale, a small assortment of
BOOKS, consisting of a variety of authors, in history, voyages, travels, philosophy, divinity, law, physics, geography, navigation, architecture, miscellaneous, poetry, &c. &c.
Webster's 1st and 3d Parts, by the gross, dozen or single; Alden's 1st and 2d ditto; Pike's Arithmetic, by the dozen or single; Morse's Geography, ditto; Morse's Gazetteer, ditto; Perry's Dictionary, ditto; Psalm-Books, Primers, and a great variety of children's books.
ALSO, A general assortment of Stationary, different sizes of Writing-Paper, by the ream or quire; plain and gilt Letter-Paper, Wafers, Quills, Inkstands, Inkpowder, Message Cards, &c. &c.
He likewise carries on the Book-binding business. Accompt-Books bound to any pattern at the shortest notice. Old Books rebound; and he keeps constantly on hand Accompt-Books of a variety of sizes and sorts, wholesale and retail. 6th 11th Month.
Joseph Taber, TAILOR, Respectfully informs his friends and the public, that he has taken the shop next to Mr. William Blodgett's; where he carries on his business in all its various branches. Those who will please to favour him with their custom, may depend on every thing in his line of business done to their satisfaction. N. B. He also makes ladies' Habits and Spencers in the newest fashion and neatest manner. Nov. 6.
Take Notice. WHEREAS the Freemen of the Town of Providence, in Town-Meeting legally assembled on the 27th day of August, 1799, directed a tax of twelve thousand dollars to be assessed on the rateable property of the inhabitants of said town; and the subscriber having been duly appointed to collect the same, takes this method respectfully to inform all concerned, that for the purpose of receiving the several sums which have been assessed on them respectively, he will attend at the office of NATHANIEL SEARLE, Esq. in the Market-House Chamber No. 2, during the first ten days of December next, Sundays excepted, from nine to twelve o'clock, A. M. and from two to four o'clock, P. M. agreeable to the order of said meeting. JESSE WHITMORE, Collector. October 23, 1799.
Federal Adelphi. THE members of the Society of the Federal Adelphi, are requested to attend their quarterly meeting, in the Chapel of R. I. College, on Wednesday the 13th inst. at 4 o'clock P. M. JOHN MACKIE, Rec. Sec'y. R. I. College, Nov. 5, 1799.
Just published, and for sale, at the
GOLDEN BEE-HIVE, THE SECRETS OF MASONRY, Illustrated and explained in a Sermon preached at South-Kingstown, by the Rev. Brother ASAHAM L. CLARKE, at the installation of Washington Lodge, No. 2, on Monday the 2d of September, A. L. 5799; in which an ample apology is offered to the ladies for their non-admission. Glasgow.

Selected Poetry.
SONG.
I. A NYMPH there lives, whom many a swain Has sigh'd for oft, but sigh'd in vain, And borne the insults and disdain Of proud but handsome MOLLY. Around her through the wits and beaux, With cringes, compliments and bows, And dress, and oaths, and lies, and vows, All threw for lovely MOLLY.
II. The charms that deck'd this favourite maid In verse and prose were sung and said: (For wits will write, and beaux may read) O happy, happy MOLLY! But see triumphant beauty's pride! In vain was wit or nonsense try'd, Beaux, fops, nay flatterers were deny'd By haughty, haughty MOLLY.
III. Too long coquetted the vain fair Time, that ev'n beauty seems to spare, Stole o'er the eyes, the cheeks, the hair Of filly, heedless MOLLY. Paint, powder, washes are apply'd--- No arts the sad disgrace can hide: The fops forsake, the wits deride Their once-lov'd, charming MOLLY.
IV. Unheeded now at ball or play, She hates the pretty, blames the gay--- Ah! who one tender thing will say To poor, deserted MOLLY? Yet still the ling'ring haunts the scene, Where once the aged beauty's queen, And every simple heart had been The slave of tyrant MOLLY.
V. At length with fruitless hope worn out, She quits the giddy, youthful rout, And turns so monastically devout, No saint was e'er like MOLLY. Yet while this solemn garb she wears, Each world by turns employs her cares, And slander, sermons, cards and prayers Divide still wretched MOLLY.
TOBACCO.
24 Hhds. of very excellent TOBACCO, just received, and for sale, on liberal credit, by
Brown and Ives.
They have on hand, FRESH BOHEA TEA, in whole, half and quarter chests, by the quantity or single chest, on very accommodating terms. LIKewise, St. Petersburg HEMP, RUSSIA DUCK, and a quantity of CODFISH. October 30.
For SALE, by Amos Maine Atwell, CONNECTICUT Salted Provisions of the best Qualities, and in excellent shipping order, viz.
Prime Beef, Prime Pork, Mese Pork, and one Hog pork. Also, 20 Furkins of Butter, 7000 feet 1-4 inch seasoned hard Pine Boards, 2000 feet 2 inch Pine Plank, 700 feet 1 inch cherry-tree Boards, Two thousand Clapboards.
The above Goods are offered for sale on terms highly favourable to the purchaser. Also, 15 Puncheons Jamaica Spirits, of the first flavour and quality, which will reduce 33 1-3 per centum. October 30. (t.f.)
Havanna Segars.
Just received, and for sale by JOSEPH J. TODD, 70,000 real Spanish Segars, supposed to be superior to any imported for some years past. -Price by the thousand, 10 dollars; by the hundred, 1 dollar 25 cents. October 30.
FUSTICK.
George W. Hoppin, Has just received and for Sale, at his Shop near the Long Wharf,
A QUANTITY OF FUSTICK, Likewise, GENUINE DRUGS, MEDICINES and DYE STUFFS, of almost every description, too numerous for an advertisement.
Family prescriptions put up in the neatest order. Medicine Chests for sea, put up at the shortest notice. October 30.
John G. Francis,
BOOT and SHOE-MAKER, Respectfully informs his friends and the public, that he keeps his shop directly opposite Capt. Daniel Bucklin's, in the Main street, where he carries on his business in all its various branches, and in the latest fashions from Europe. After many years experience in his business, he has found out a new method of keeping the elasticity in Boots, till they are quite worn out, and warrants them to fit the leg, be it ever so badly shaped. He has got Boot-legs and Seal-skins, manufactured in New-York, which he will warrant to be good. N.B. He also makes Ladies' Boots and Shoes, of the newest fashion, and in the neatest manner. August 21. (t.f.)
NEW GOODS.
William James,
(On the west side of the Bridge, Providence) Has just received, by the latest arrivals from London, a new supply of FALL and WINTER GOODS, which he now offers for sale, at the lowest prices for cash - viz.
 SUPERFINE, middling and coarse Broadcloths  Superfine Cassimeres  Forest Cloths  Striped and spotted Elastic Cloths  Pine and coarse Plains  Devonshire Kerseys  Coatings  Colour'd Flannels  Baizes and Duffles  Camblets, Cambletseens  Wildbores, Crapes, Russells  Calimancoes, Shalloons, Moreens  Taboreens, Durants and Tammies  Fashionable Swandown Waistcoating  Patent worsted, and silk and worsted Hosiery  Velvets, Thicksets and Plushes  Lastings, Satinets and Florentines  English and India Lustings  Black and colour'd Satins  Modes, Sarinets  Tiffanies and Persians  Fashionable dark and light Chintzes and Calicoes  Dark mourning do.  Muslinets and Dimities  Striped and plain Jaconet Muslins  Book do.  Long Lawns  Cambricks and Lawns  Platillas, Brown Hollands, Diapers, Piquet, Cyprus, crape and plain Gauzes  Widows' Crape  Muslin, Chintz and Purple Shawls  Muslin and Lawn Handkerchiefs  Black and white Millinett  Barcelona and Bandano Handkerchiefs  Linen and Cotton do.  Black Muslin and India Cottons  Ravens Duck, Russia Sheeting  Bedticks  6, 7, 8, 9 and 10-quarter Rose-Blankets  ALSO, A large variety of Fur Trimmings An assortment of Morocco and Cloth Shoes Ladies' long and short Silk Gloves Gentlemen's worsted and Silk do. Sewing Silk, Twist, Threads, Bobins, Tapes, &c. LIKewise, An assortment of Hard Ware, &c. &c. October 30. (6w)
New, Fancy, and Staple Goods.
Just received, by Caleb Bowers, And now opened for sale, at his Cash Store, No. 1, Cheapside, an extensive assortment of English and Scotch GOODS, -CONSISTING OF-
 REAL blue and black Sedan Cloths  London superfine do.  Yorkshire do.  Middling and low priced do.  Navy Blue  White, buff and scarlet Cassimeres  Imbosc'd and plain do.  Coatings  Duffles  Plains  Serges  Baizes  Flannels  Devonshire Kersey  Fearnott  Swandowns  6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11-quarter Rose Blankets  Common and ingrain Scotch Carpets and Carpeting  Stair do.  Camel's-hair Shawls, with and without fringes  Linens  Cambricks  Muslins  Gentlemen and ladies' Beaver Gloves.  Do. lin'd with fur Fur Trimmings Muffs and Tippets Gentlemen's Hats, of the newest taste Ladies' patent fatten do. with bands and plumes Fancy Ribbons Chappel Needles Scotch Threads Superfine and common patent Hose Knotted do. Plain and ribb'd do. Marble do. Ribb'd outsize do. Black do. Black and white gauze do. Silk and worsted do. Chintz and purple Shawls Fancy kid and Morocco Shoes Kid Gloves Black and white silk do. with every other article usually called for in the dry goods line, at the lowest cash prices. October 30.
1500 Dollars.
WAS delivered to the Postmaster here, in the Post-Office, on the evening of Tuesday the 27th ult. a letter directed to Mr. John Mills, merchant, Baltimore, containing two Alexandria bank notes - No. 4320, in favour of William Taylor, and dated the 20th of April, 1798, for one thousand dollars, and No. 4511, in favour of John P. Pleasants, and dated the 10th of December, 1798, for 500 dollars; which letter has been suppressed in a Post-Office, and the bank notes taken out, as the public mail was not stopped, molested or robbed. Bankers and merchants are particularly requested to watch the circulation of said notes, and stop them; and any person giving such information as will lead us to our money, shall have FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS reward.
WILSON and SWAN. Fredericksburg (Virg.) Sept. 10, 1799. All printers in the United States are requested to publish the above, and we will pay them. October 9.
For SALE by Pitts and Chedel,
At their store, opposite the store of Amos Atwell, Esq: GOOD Surinam Molasses, by the hoghead. Sugar, by the hoghead and barrel Bohea Tea, by the chest Hyson and Souchong, by the dozen or smaller quantity A few hogheads of good Rum. October 23.
For SALE, by Abbott and Ingals,
At their Tan-Yard in North-Providence, FOUR thousand dried HIDES, in excellent order, very reasonable for cash or short credit. They want to purchase, OAK BARK, For which the highest price in cash will be given. May 29. (18)
A fresh Supply of GOODS.
Samuel Ames,
At the west end of the Great Bridge, Has just imported, by the Minerva, from London, and the different vessels from Liverpool to Boston, and now offers for sale, at the lowest prices for cash,
 BEST superfine Broadcloths and Kersemeres, with fashionable Buttons, and Cape Velvets  A great variety of Swandown Waistcoating  Marseilles and Sattin for do.  White, Yellow, and Black Swanskins and Flannels  Yellow, red, crimson and green Baizes  5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10-quarter Rose-Blankets, of a superior quality  Best stout Devonshire Kersey, light and dark Coatings  German Serges  A variety of Worsted, Cotton and Silk Hose  Men's and Women's Silk and Leather Gloves  ALSO, A great variety of Calicoes, Chintzes, Muslins, Shawls, Handkerchiefs, and almost every article usually called for in an English Goods shop. October 23. (8w)
From the German Shakespeare.
Just published, and for sale at JOSEPH J. TODD'S Book-Store and Circulating Library, sign of the Bible and Anchor (price 5f.) William and Jeanette; A Tale, from the German of Augustus Von Kotzebue.
ALSO - (Price 1 dollar) The Country Dyer's Assistant. By ASA ELLIS.
THIS work bids fair to be of great utility in such a country as America, especially in the Northern States, which abound in sheep, and the art of dying wool is of so high importance. A circumstantial detail of experiments, with their various results, is, in this small volume, presented to the country dyers; not only those who profess the art, but private families. may find it of the greatest use, and colour their own yarn of woolen, worsted and thread, and also silks, as beautifully as the dyers. This publication is the result of twenty years practice, close study, fair trials and unwearied pains and expence.
Additions to the Circulating Library are constantly making. A new Catalogue will soon be published. October 23.
WE the Subscribers being appointed, by the Hon. Court of Probate of the town of Gloucester, commissioners to receive and examine the claims against the estate of RUFUS WILLIAMS, late of said Gloucester, deceased, represented insolvent; and six months being allowed from the 19th of October inst. for that purpose, all persons having claims or demands against said estate, are hereby notified to exhibit them to us on or before the expiration of the time above mentioned, or they will be precluded according to law. Attendance will be given at the houses of Cyrus Cook, innholder, and Daniel Smith, of Gloucester, on the third Saturdays in each month, from 10 o'clock, A.M. until 5, P.M. beginning at Cyrus Cook's on the third Saturday in November, and the third in December at Daniel Smith's, and then alternately at each place.
DANIEL SMITH, SOLOMON OWEN. N.B. Notice is hereby given to all persons indebted to said estate, to make immediate payment to ASA BALLOU, Administrator. Gloucester, October 21.
For SALE, by Greene and Barker,
 60 Hhds. of excellent Molasses  60 ditto of New-England Rum  30 ditto of Surinam Sugar, of the first quality  A few boxes of Havana white and brown do.  10 Pipes of French Brandy  20 Chests of Bohea Tea  10 ditto of Hyson ditto  A quantity of Codfish  3 Tons of Redwood  100 Boxes of Spermaceti Candles  A quantity of new Beef, in barrels  Butter in firkins, and New-Milk Cheese.  October 23.
To be Sold or Let,
ON REASONABLE TERMS, A Large and commodious four story HOUSE, in Westminster-street, adjoining the Theatre, with a good store, convenient for the retailing business.
Also, to Let, The STORE in front of the House where the subscriber now lives, opposite the Town Pump. BENJAMIN TALBOT. (t.f.) July 17.
Fredericksburg, September 12, 1799.
BY an Advertisement published last Tuesday by Messrs. Wilson and Swan, it may be inferred that bank notes were delivered to me to the amount of 1500 dollars; and the whole tenor of the advertisement seems to be an attempt to throw an obloquy on my character. The following statement of facts, which I can support by testimony, will at once remove the impression of my receiving money, and the villainous attempt at calumniating my character by their unjust publication.
Mr. Swan, of the house of Wilson and Swan, came to the Post-Office between the hours of 9 and 10 o'clock in the evening of the 17th ult. and he delivered me a letter. - I then took it and put it in the mail in his presence (as he staid some considerable time after the delivery of the letter) which mail was regularly put up with the others, as usual, and sent from this office.
How Messrs. Wilson and Swan came by their information that the letter was suppressed, and bank notes taken out, leave the public to decide.
WILLIAM WIATT.
Those Printers in the United States who published Messrs. Wilson and Swan's advertisement, will be so obliging as to insert the above, and apply for payment to - W. W. October 9.
Sugden's Specific,
For the Cure of Sprains and Bruises. THE afflicted who are labouring under the painful accidents of SPRAINS and BRUISES, may be assured of being afforded permanent relief, by an immediate application of the above Specific, used agreeably to the printed directions, which will be given on purchasing the Specific; and which ought to be particularly observed in its application.
As one of the strongest proofs of its efficacy in the above complaints, the inventor has been politely favoured with the patronage of the following medical gentlemen; and who have been pleased publicly to recommend it, as follows:
"WE the undersigned, Physicians of Providence, Rhode-Island, having given Sugden's Specific a trial, do venture to recommend it to the Public, as proving eminently serviceable in the cure of Sprains and Bruises.
AMOS THROOP, PARDON BOWEN, BENJAMIN DYER."
N.B. The above Specific is sold by Dr. Benjamin Dyer, and Dr. Amos Throop, in 8-ounce phials, provided with tin cases for the safety of travellers and mariners, at 6f each; and without tin cases, at 5f. July 31. 13w.
Cooley's genuine Pills,
Prepared by Samuel Cooley, of Bolton, State of Connecticut, And secured to him by letters patent, signed by the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES, and dated at Philadelphia, the 26th day of June, A.D. 1798, agreeable to an act of Congress.
THEY are justly esteemed for their easy operation and good effects; they are a most certain remedy for the Jaundice, Rheumatism, Erysipelas, Gravel, Piles, Scurvy, Dizziness of the Head, Pain in the Stomach and Bowels; they are an antidote against infectious diseases; and are, taking two or three early in the morning, a great preservative against contagious air, remove obstructions of any kind, by dissolving and discharging the morbid matter, help digestion, restore a lost appetite, a sure relief for costive habits; decayed constitutions are removed by a thorough use of the above Pills.
They are found by experience to be the most safe and easy physic of any composition yet known: Persons under weak circumstances may take them with safety and not find themselves made weaker, as is common to other physic. They are to be taken twice in a day, two in the morning and one at night, more or less, so as to cause one or two movements of the body more than usual; let the patient fast one hour, then eat, drink and exercise as he pleases.
N.B. There is no Mercury in the above Pills. Sold by JOHN POPE, Providence. August 21.