The Providence journal, and town and country advertiser (Providence [R.I.]), 1800-06-11 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. 76. ]
WEDNESDAY, June 11, 1800.
[ Vol. II. ]
A LETTER FROM ROBERT GOODLOE HARPER, TO HIS CONSTITUENTS.
Philadelphia, May 15th, 1800.
YESTERDAY, my dear Sir, Congress adjourned, to meet, on the third Monday in November, at the city of Washington; henceforth the seat of the Federal Government. The public offices will, probably, be removed thither early in next month.
Among the most important laws of the session thus terminated, is the "Bankrupt Act;" which has long been an object of attention in Congress, but hitherto delayed by the difficulty and extent of the subject itself, or by the pressure of matters more immediately interesting. Its operation is confined to merchants and dealers, and will be rarely felt except in the great commercial towns; for a person must owe at least a thousand dollars, before it can affect him. Its object is, in the first place, to support mercantile credit, by protecting the rights of creditors against the fraud of dishonest, and the folly of imprudent debtors; who may waste or conceal their property while the ordinary forms of law are going on against them; and secondly, to encourage fair industry and prudent conduct; by enabling honest debtors, reduced by misfortune, to give up their property, free themselves entirely from their debts, and begin the world anew; which no man will ever have the courage to do, while a load of old debts is hanging on him.
A system so new, so extensive, and operating on such a variety of unforeseen cases, will, no doubt, be found very imperfect at first, and in need of frequent revision and amendment, according to the light which experience alone can afford. It may also be liable to abuse in many instances; for what human institution may not be perverted? But the example of other countries proves, that to a trading people, a bankrupt law is highly beneficial, if not absolutely necessary.
An attempt has also been made to revise the judiciary system of the United States, which is found to be very inconvenient in practice, and by no means adequate to the proper administration of justice. At present there is but one Superior or Circuit Court of the United States held in each state, for the trial of civil actions, and the punishment of offences, throughout the whole state. The consequence is, that people who are sued in the Federal Court, or prosecuted for offences against the United States, are obliged, in many cases, especially in the large states, to attend with their witnesses, at great distances from home, and with much expense and inconvenience. These circumstances have a strong tendency to bring the laws of the United States into neglect and disrepute, by deterring people from prosecuting offenders against them. In order to remove these evils, and render the administration of justice more effectual, and less burthensome, it was proposed to increase the number of Courts, by dividing the larger states into two, three, or four districts, with a Circuit Court in each.
The Circuit Courts are now held by the judges of the Supreme Court of the U. States, six in number; who are obliged, for that purpose, to travel, perpetually, from one end of the continent to the other. This immense labour employs almost the whole of their time, and prevents them from giving that application to the study of the law which is necessary, in order to keep up, renew and enlarge, their stock of legal knowledge. The fatigue, moreover, of such continual journeys, is too great to be borne for any length of time, by men of that advanced age, in which the experience, maturity of judgment, and weight of character, necessary for a judge of the highest court in the nation, are usually to be found. Nor can it be expected, that men of this description will long retain employments, the duties of which require them to be so frequently and so long absent from their homes, and deprived of their domestic comforts.
Small as the number of Circuit Courts, now is, these circumstances render it extremely improper to compel the judges of the Supreme Court to hold them. In case of the number being increased, it would become utterly impossible. This increase appeared unavoidable, for the reasons already stated.
It was therefore proposed, to reduce the number of judges of the Supreme Court to five, and to confine them to the business of that court; which must become very considerable, and will afford them sufficient employment; and to appoint a new set of judges, for the purpose of holding the Circuit Courts. These were the two fundamental points of the new system which was introduced; first to increase the number of Circuit Courts; and secondly, to appoint a distinct set of judges for holding them.
The business, however, being of great importance, and requiring much consideration, it was thought best to postpone it till next session of Congress. It will then, probably, be again brought forward.
A dispute existing between the United States and the state of Georgia, relative to the title of some lands on the Mississippi, where Georgia claims a very extensive and valuable territory,
which she has expressed a willingness to cede to the United States, commissioners have been appointed, on the part of the United States, to adjust this dispute, and to agree on the terms of the proposed cession. Should it take place, of which strong hopes are entertained, a most disagreeable cause of contention will be removed, and the United States become possessed, on terms mutually advantageous, of a very valuable territory.
In my last letter I informed you, that a motion was made early in the session, for the reduction of the army; which was opposed and rejected on the ground, that the state of things was yet too uncertain to warrant such a measure, the tendency whereof, if adopted, in the beginning of a negotiation, must be to render a fair and honourable adjustment of differences less easy, by impressing the opposite party with an opinion, that we were too weak, too avaricious, or too much divided, to support the measures necessary for resistance. These reasons had, in a great degree, ceased before the close of the session. It was then known, that our commissioners must have reached Paris about the 10th of March; and consequently that the fate of their mission, having, in all probability, been decided before the middle of May, could not be affected by any thing to be done here after that period. The late revolution in France had also taken place. General Buonaparte had suppressed the Directory and the Jacobins, and erected his own power on their ruins. He manifestly aimed at acquiring popularity in France, and in Europe, for his new government, by holding out the appearance, at least, of a just and pacific system, if not by adopting it in reality. This plan would strongly incline him to a reconciliation on fair and honourable terms with America; the quarrel with which was always unpopular in France, and had become much more so, since she displayed the will and means of resistance, and since the effect of her measures had been felt in the French commercial towns and colonies. Hence it was to be presumed, that the result of the negotiation would be favourable; and several measures of a nature to confirm this opinion, and to show that the new government wished to be on good terms with this country, were known to have been adopted by it. If, on the other hand, the result of the negotiation should prove unfavourable, and our quarrel with France continue, it was to be presumed that General Buonaparte's failure and misfortunes in Egypt would render him very cautious about attempting to attack a country more distant, far more powerful, and which had manifested a determination to defend itself. Should he feel the disposition, yet the formidable combination against him in Europe, would find him full employment for all the means which his country, in its present exhausted state, could furnish. And in case of a new change in the government, which might place the Jacobins again in power; or of a tide of success, which might revive the former spirit of conquest, dominion and injustice; we must have a warning sufficiently long, to enable us to provide anew for our defence; which the spirit and alacrity formerly displayed by the country, when threatened with attack, gave the utmost assurance of our being able very speedily to do, should the danger return.
This change in the state of things, between the beginning and the end of the session, induced the persons who opposed the motion for disbanding the army, at the former period, to be of opinion that the measure might be safely adopted at the latter. They therefore brought it forward themselves, and it passed into a law. The discharge of the troops is to take place on or before the 15th of June.
But as those troops are to be discharged suddenly, and sooner than was expected at the time when they were raised, it was thought reasonable and just, to make them an allowance of three months pay, after their discharge; so as to enable them to look about them at their return home, and support themselves till they can get into new occupations. This was not only a just measure, but a very wise one; since it will operate as a strong encouragement to persons to enter into the service on any future occasion, when it may be necessary to prepare for defence.
This reduction of the army, will probably constitute a saving of about two millions, in the expenses of the year.
Many other acts were passed during the session, but they are not sufficiently important to be detailed here. Far the greater number, as usually happens, are of a temporary nature, or intended for particular purposes. The business of a government so extensive as ours, necessarily requires a great number of occasional and temporary laws; but those of a general and permanent nature are far less numerous than is sometimes supposed.
No official or direct accounts have been received from our commissioners since their arrival in France. It is, however, known from the public prints, that they are in Paris; that they were received with great cordiality by the people of France, and with great respect by the government; and that Gen. Buonaparte has appointed three Commissioners to treat with them, one of whom is his brother. It also appears, that
the French, in a great measure, abstain, at present, from molesting our vessels, except in cases where they are authorized to do so by the law of nations; and that several which were detained improperly, have been released. Thus the spirited conduct and wise measures of our government, aided and supported by the courage of the nation, are likely to produce their natural and usual effect, of avoiding a serious and destructive war on one hand, and maintaining our rights and honour on the other.
Appearances in Europe are more favourable to the hope of a general peace, than they lately were. It seems certain, that the Russians, satisfied with having checked the progress of France towards universal empire, and curtailed her power and her conquests, and perhaps distrustful of the views of some of the combined powers, have withdrawn their armies, and probably separated themselves entirely from the coalition. If this be true, Austria will, in all probability, soon find, that more is to be got by dividing the spoil equally with France, than by continuing to contend for the whole of it; and in that case, as France will probably have the same view of things, an arrangement may soon be expected to take place between them. England, who, notwithstanding the great expenses of the war, has gained more by it than any other power, will then have no rational object for its continuance—and will, most probably, avail herself of the first safe and favourable opportunity of making peace.
As to our internal concerns, the most important of them, and the only one which seems likely to agitate the public mind, is the approaching election of President. Mr. Jefferson is again brought forward in opposition to Mr. Adams, and the utmost exertions are made to ensure his success. Those who have been in the constant habit of opposing the present system of administration, from the moment when it was first adopted by General Washington, its real author, to the present time, will no doubt promise a great many good things to the nation, if they can at length obtain the management of its affairs.
It will however be remembered, by men of sense and reflection, that they have been employed, for ten years, in finding fault with and opposing every measure of the federal government; that many of those measures which they clamoured most against, have been approved by experience, the only unerring judge in matters of this kind;—That the British treaty, from which they predicted the most direful consequences, has secured, thus far, the peace of the country with that nation; has given us possession of the territory which was before withheld from us; and has put all our former differences in a train of amicable adjustment. That our commerce, the ruin of which was confidently predicted from the operation of that treaty, has, since its adoption, flourished more than ever;—That the measures adopted towards France, instead of bringing on us the exemplary vengeance of that nation, with which they never ceased to threaten us, have, on the contrary, ensured to us better treatment from it than any other people has received; and are now, apparently, in a fair way of producing an honourable and satisfactory accommodation:—That our navy, which those persons opposed to the utmost, cried out against as too expensive to be supported, and ridiculed as too inconsiderable to do any good, has protected our commerce, raised our national character, and taught the French to respect our rights:—That since the establishment of this navy, our commerce has recovered from the depression into which the depredations of France had plunged it, and become more prosperous than before:—That our national credit, the ruin of which they foretold, is high and firm:—And finally, that the army, which they charily the supporters of administration with having raised for sinister purposes, is laid down by its authors themselves, as soon as there was a reasonable ground to believe that it had become unnecessary.
Men of sense and reflection will recollect these circumstances; and they will ask themselves, what more could any administration have done? Party-men, who are heated by constant opposition to all that has been done, and view every thing with a prejudiced eye, will no doubt say that more might have been done, had their advice been followed; but for this, we have nothing but their word; and it is just as fair, to suppose that less would have been done, had their advice been followed. They have predicted much evil, which we know has not happened. May we not safely conclude, from this, that their predictions about the good effects of following their advice, would have proved equally fallacious?
When we were engaged in a dispute with England, Mr. Jefferson's friends, and I presume himself, strongly urged the most violent and high-handed measures. To make a single attempt at negotiation, before resort was had to measures of compulsion, was stigmatized by them as pusillanimity and meanness. Nothing but sequestration of property, and prohibition of intercourse, would suit them. When we afterwards got into a dispute with France, which was manifestly forced upon us by the injustice and aggressions of that nation, these same persons wholly changed their tone. They were then
all mildness and submission; talked of nothing but the horrors of war; insisted upon negotiation after negotiation; perpetually held up to view our own weakness, and the power and vengeance of France; and even when the second embassy was driven off, and a tribute demanded, still persisted in opposing every measure of defence or preparation, for fear it should involve us in war. When persons act thus inconsistently, is there not some reason to apprehend, that their conduct is influenced more by passion, party spirit, animosity against one nation, and improper attachment to another, than by an enlightened and wise regard to the interest of their own country? Ought we not to listen with caution to the counsels of men, who are so much more under the guidance of passion than of sense? When their former predictions have been so fully refuted by experience, ought we not to distrust their present promises? Is there not every reason to believe, that had their advice been formerly followed, we should have been plunged into the war against the English, and now in a state of subjection to France, under the name of an alliance, as we know some other countries to be?—Should not this teach us the danger of listening to them now?
After all, what do these persons expect to gain for the country, by a change of administration? What can they hope to do, which is not already done, or in a fair way to be done? Will they make peace with France? It is in a train of being made.—Will they reduce the army?—It is reduced.—Will they repeal the alien and sedition laws, about which they have raised so loud and so unfounded a clamour? They expire of themselves next session; and the occasion for them having ceased, nobody thinks of renewing them. Will they discharge the public debt? Provision is already made for its discharge. If they mean only to do things of this kind, which are already done or doing, there is no need of putting them in. It can do no good to the public, although it may gratify their lust of power, their animosity against their opponents, or their party spirit. If they mean to destroy all that has heretofore been done; to overthrow the funding system, and abolish the public debt without paying it; to resume their old and favourite schemes of a French alliance, and a war against England, whereby the payment of British debts may be postponed; to destroy the navy, whereon rests our only hope of respect abroad, and complete security at home; in fine, to repeal all the laws which they have opposed, and to throw every thing into confusion; if all this be their meaning, they will do infinite mischief, and ought to be kept out, as they have hitherto been.
If under the present system of administration the country has prospered; if peace has been preserved with honour, during a conflict which has involved almost every nation except ourselves; if commerce has been protected, industry made to flourish, public credit maintained, tranquility preserved at home, and the character of the nation raised abroad; I ask, what more could any administration have done? and where is the need of a change? Shall we act like foolish children, who throw away their play-things, and take new ones, merely because they are tired of the first? Or shall we imitate the conduct of prudent men, who retain in their service and confidence those by whom their affairs have been managed with fidelity and success? If you had an overseer, who for ten years together had made good crops, and kept your plantation in excellent order, would you turn him away, merely because some other man, whom you knew little or nothing about, should come and tell you, that he would manage better, if employed?
We know the present administration, by the success of their actions. Those who are so anxious to succeed them, we know only by the falseness of their promises, their perseverance in fault-finding, and the failure of all their former predictions. It is, therefore, in my judgment, solid wisdom to adhere to the former, and leave the latter where they are.
In order to effect this purpose, it is necessary to fix on two men; in both of whom those who are satisfied with the system of administration adopted by Washington, and pursued by his successor, can confide; and to support them both as President. This necessity is imposed on us by the constitution; which directs that every elector shall vote for two persons, and that he who obtains the highest number of votes, shall be President, and the next to him Vice-President.—Mr. Adams and General Pinckney have been proposed as candidates, to be voted for together, with the hope and wish that Mr. Adams may be President, on account of his long services, his well-tryed virtue, the fidelity where-with he has discharged the duties of his office, and the success which has attended the leading measures of his administration. Both however ought to be supported, because the principle ought to be preferred to the man; and because if both are supported together, there will be more probability of securing one of them, than if either should run singly. Should General Pinckney obtain the highest vote, there can be no doubt that the public affairs will be safe in his hands. We know his talents, his industry, his knowledge of business, his integrity, his attachment to republicanism, and his ardent love

of his country. We know also that he is a firm friend and supporter of Washington's system of administration, whereby this country has been maintained in prosperity and honour, and which it is the object of Mr. Adams' opponents to subvert. By supporting these two gentlemen with all our might, we give ourselves the best possible chance of maintaining the present order of things; of giving stability and permanency to our government, which must be deeply shaken by frequent and violent changes of administration; and of encouraging public servants to do well, by retaining in the confidence of the nation, those who have conducted its affairs with fidelity and success.
I trust, my dear Sir, that you will pardon me for troubling you with these observations, and that they will not be considered as improper or unbecoming. They have been drawn from me by a strong conviction of the importance of the subject, to the honour and happiness of a country which we both love, and to the permanency and success of a government which we both admire. As I am, moreover, about to close, perhaps forever, my political career, they may be considered, in some sort, as the last words of a departing friend; which, as they are uttered in sincerity, we always flatter ourselves will be received with indulgence.
I have formerly mentioned to my friends, a determination which I some time ago made, to withdraw from public life, in order to devote myself wholly to my professional pursuits, a determination which the state of my affairs has long required, and now renders indispensable. The reasons which have induced me heretofore to postpone it, and which I was so happy as to find approved by my constituents, have now ceased. I have therefore resumed it; and I think it my duty to announce it in this manner. It furnishes nothing for me to regret, except the being compelled, by the attention which every man is bound to pay his own situation and affairs, to choose a place of residence distant from those who have honoured me, from early life, with their confidence and affection, and to whose indulgent partiality I am proud to acknowledge myself indebted, for whatever of success I have obtained in life. Wherever I may be, or however situated, I shall always be proud to remember, and to acknowledge, that when I was a youth, without fortune, without friends, without acquaintances, a stranger in a strange land, the district of Ninety-Six took me to its bosom, and cherished me as its own child; and that through every change of scene and fortune, it has still continued to give me proofs of regard and attachment. The grateful and affectionate sentiments which this recollection is calculated to inspire, shall go with me to my retirement, and be constantly cherished in my heart; nor shall I ever cease to consider myself as a citizen of Ninety-Six district, and to feel proud of the title of her adopted son.
Excuse me, my dear Sir. I find that I am wandering from my purpose; which was to inform you and my other constituents, that I shall serve out the time for which I was formerly chosen, but cannot be a candidate in any future election; and to bid you and them an affectionate farewell.
ROBERT G. HARPER.
Political Miscellany.
[The analysis of President Adams' Defence of the American Constitutions of Government, contained in the subsequent prospectus for publishing the work, is an able vindication of those political sentiments which the illustrious author published, some years since, for the benefit of his fellow-countrymen; but which, from an unaccountable apathy in the public mind, have been but little read, though often commented on by ignorance and illiberality. Should the editor of the intended edition be encouraged to prosecute his plan, the public interest may be expected to be greatly benefited; for expedient as it is, in free governments, for the people to know, and to understand the natural elements of society, and the pure and solid principles of government, that it will not be thought extravagant, when we say, that were the political lights which are displayed in this unrivalled work, universally seen and examined, there would be no occasions for that constant alarm, and those increased exertions which seem to have become necessary for the support of those measures, on which our national security rests.]
PROPOSAL,
For publishing a cheap, elegant and correct edition of Mr. Adams' Defence of the American Constitutions; respectfully submitted to the enlightened freemen of the United States.
AT this important moment, when with unusual industry, and the hope of success, the enemies of our excellent government are attempting to undermine its foundation, and by calumnies and misrepresentation, to remove from office its most enlightened and virtuous supporters, every engine should be set in motion to defeat their black designs, and to rescue the commonwealth from its most imminent danger. Impressed with the conviction of this truth, and the efficacy which the political doctrines of this incomparable work would have on public opinion at this time, the editor is prompted to issue these proposals, and trusts his countrymen will aid the publication by a liberal and extensive patronage. To those who have read the DEFENCE, no encomium is necessary; but unfortunately for our country, it has been read but by few, though it ought to be familiar with all. We have therefore selected the following outline, from a pamphlet published in the state of Delaware, in 1796, which presents an ample and correct analysis of the work.
Outline of Mr. Adams' Defence of the American Constitutions.
"THERE never was, perhaps, a literary work so much talked of, and so little known in this part of the Union, as Mr. Adams' Defence of our Constitutions. Let candid and enlightened men judge of its merits and its defects by a temperate perusal. Let every man of honour pause before he passes sentence. Is it not to try and condemn without the common forms of justice, if any man shall, without having even seen it, hazard a condemnation of this work, and of course of the character of one of the earliest and most conspicuous men of our revolution? Let the man of charity resume his inestimable prin-
ciple—and before he condemns such a character, read the work.
"As far as I am capable of judging, the following appears to my mind a short outline of his main doctrine, in the 'Defence of our Constitutions.' He calls his work a defence of our free governments, and it is so. These governments were censured by a M. Turgot, of France, because they had a legislature of two branches—and an independent executive. He charged, upon those who formed them, too servile an imitation of the English constitution. Mr. Adams had heard of the intended views of a faction in Massachusetts to introduce monsieur Turgot's theory there; to abolish their separate executive and their senate—and wrote his book, vol. 1, to prevent this anarchy. Before he finished his volume, an insurrection had actually taken place in Massachusetts, (1786) the object of which was to establish one supreme body to govern the state. The anarchists were then, as they have since been throughout the Union, defeated. In order to vindicate the established republican forms of three branches, each branch having a negative, Mr. Adams was led to review the several governments in Europe, where in the people had any share. He and every man in America knew that we not only imitated the parts of the English government which were proper to be adopted here, to wit, a separation of the different powers of government into three branches;—the complete independence of the judiciary;—a bill of right;—the habeas corpus, and the inestimable trial by jury; but also continued in force the English statutes that had been heretofore adopted, and the common law of England. These principles of public policy were adopted at the same time that we wisely rejected the name, and political character, of a king; a hereditary senate or nobility; and a bench of bishops. The English government was, at that time, and has been for ages, the only one in Europe wherein 'the people had a share, and in which was to be found the principle that we had actually adopted, viz. the division of the powers of government into the one, an executive;—the few, a senate;—and the many, a house of delegates, chosen immediately by the people, with a negative on each. His work was particularly a defence of the principal outlines of the government of this state (Maryland) where we have a governor—a senate, elected for five years by electors—and a house of delegates, chosen by the people immediately.
"In the vindication of such a political form, and of such imitations and adaptations from the English government and civil system, Mr. Adams was under a necessity of vindicating the English government, as far as it bore a comparison with any at that time in Europe. Whenever his comparison takes place between that and those constitutions which he was then defending, we always, in every instance, find that he is exultingly in favour of the free constitutions of America, and adjudges the palm of glory to them; not because they are called Republics, a name given to some of the most tyrannical governments at this day in Europe; but because the people were actually sovereign and free; because they chose their own governors, senators and representatives, annually; and because there were no hereditary honours, titles, offices or distinctions; and the powers of government were carefully divided.—Vid. 1st vol. 95, 6. No where does he even insinuate, that we ought to adopt hereditary first magistrates, or king, or nobility. His whole book was written for the purpose of guarding against a state of things, which might give birth to such characters in our free states. He therefore enters into the history of governments, and develops the constituent qualities of every civilized and wealthy society. He shows the danger of a free government becoming aristocratical, by pointing out this truth, that in every society, which is highly civilized, like ours, there are, and always will be, inequalities of condition—some rich, some indigent, some famous, others obscure; that some will pride themselves on birth, others on talents; that to check these natural tendencies to aristocracy, our governments are wisely furnished with checks and balances, by the action of which, no one man, nor any of those who are rich, or descended from great men, as a body, nor the general mass of citizens, as a body, shall be able to trample on each others rights, as they invariably have done in all republics and other governments, where those mutual checks and balances of power did not exist. The English constitution, in theory, has certain checks, which, for a monarchy, have certainly made it one of the most free in Europe. But its checks and balances, viz. a king and hereditary nobles, Mr. Adams does not wish to see adopted here; for, in page 71, vol. 1. he says, speaking of the Americans, "they have not made their first magistrates hereditary, nor their Senators; here they differ from the English constitution, AND WITH GREAT PROPRIETY." Can language be more explicit? He thinks any government without our checks, a despotism, whether called monarchy, or aristocracy, or simple democracy. He is for compounding the better features of all and each of these three, to make one free Republic.
"The feature and quality of monarchy he would popularize (if such a word may be used) into a first magistrate, like a President of the United States, with a veto; but observe, he would have him elective. And that he is a friend to frequent and popular elections, see page 96 and 399: to this magistrate he would give the executive power. Thus it is given in our unrivaled federal constitution. Again, he would check this first magistrate, the monarchy feature or quality, and the representatives, the democratic part, by the aristocratic quality of society, in a senate. Here he differs from the British eulogist, because he would not have this senate a hereditary body.
"Again, he would have the third branch of government a house of delegates, immediately chosen by the people, to check the natural aristocracy, and the executive. He defends the free government of his country in so doing; and proudly exults in the superiority of her forms over those of every country, including the constitution of England.
"This appears, to my mind, the principal outline of his work. Those among my young countrymen, whose education destines them to learned reflection, and probably to public station, will find in this work a clue to guide both to political knowledge, and to the practice of virtuous sentiment: they will find, too, that this learned and able statesman no where substitutes an audacious philosophy in the place of religion."
Terms and Conditions.
As it is a work of much labour and expense, it will be published after the English manner, in numbers, each number to contain 64 pages, letter press.
It will be printed on fine paper, with the type used in the "Outline" in this proposal, which will enable the editor to comprise the work in 16 numbers, or when bound, in two volumes. The London edition was in three volumes, and sold at eight dollars; the American edition, published in 1797, by Mr. Cobbett, was also in three volumes, and sold at six dollars.
It will be delivered to subscribers, handsomely stitched in blue, at 25 cents each number, to be paid on delivery.
As it may be inconvenient for many persons, particularly at a distance, to receive the work in numbers, subscriptions will be received for the work to be delivered in boards, at four dollars and fifty cents, or bound and lettered at five dollars.
A seventh book gratis will be allowed those persons who may procure six subscribers, and in that proportion for a greater number.
If the public seem disposed to encourage the publication, it will be immediately put to press, and finished with all possible dispatch.
Subscriptions received by JOHN RUSSELL, the publisher, at his office, Spring-lane, Boston, and by the several Book-stores in town, and by the Postmasters and Booksellers in the country.
Boston, June 5.
Late European News.
By an Arrival at Boston.
STRASBURG, April 8.
A messenger has passed Basle, on his way to Paris, with the ultimatum of the Emperor respecting the peace proposed by Buonaparte.
TURIN, March 17.
OFFICIAL.
On the 15th inst. Gen. Massena, with near 6000 men, marched against Fontana Buena, to punish the inhabitants by fire and sword. On the enemy's approach, the insurgents divided themselves on both sides the road, in ambush, leaving the road clear. The French advanced rapidly, were met by the Austrians in front, when the insurgents from the ambush surrounded the enemy, placed them between a double fire, killed two thousand on the spot, took a greater number prisoners, amongst whom were 113 officers, two generals, one of whom, Gen. Arnould, soon after died of his wounds.
VIENNA April 5.
A report was in circulation to-day, that Malta had surrendered after Valetta had been stormed by the allies. No official accounts, however, have as yet been received of its being taken.
HAMBURG, April 12.
Prince Suwarrows's death has been reported, contradicted, and again stated in the South Prussian Gazette, to have happened on the 2d of March; that his death was sudden; and that there were suspicions he had been poisoned.
LONDON, April 23.
Letters to the 18th from the vicinity of the Rhine, make no mention of any hostile events. Moreau was to have passed the Rhine the 19th.
We last night received Paris papers to the 26th, and this morning to the 21st instant. In Italy no military event has taken place; the army of Massena is stated to amount to 50,000 men. On the Rhine, the Head-quarters of the French are at Colmar. The Austrians are stated to be in considerable force at Rastadt. Mannheim has been bombed by the Republicans.
The commencement of the campaign is now hourly expected in both quarters.
The gallant Earl St. Vincent yesterday received his commission, appointing him Commander in Chief of the Channel fleet, in the room of Lord Bridport, who resigns on account of his ill health.
PARIS, April 5.
The Commissioners for carrying on the negotiations between the French Republic and the United States of America, held their first sitting on the 3d, and exchanged their powers.
By the arrival at Philadelphia of the ship Active, M c Dougal, in 29 days from London, the following, first decisive operations of the contending armies on the continent of Europe, in the present campaign, is received:
LONDON, April 30.
Just as this paper was going to press, we received the Paris Journals to the 27th inst. inclusive. The lateness of the hour obliges us, for this day, to content ourselves with giving the following extracts:
ARMY OF ITALY.
Telegraphic Dispatch.
Albenga, 20th Germinal, April 10. The Commander in Chief, to Gen. Martiliere, commanding the 7th division.
"Cause all the troops coming from France to file off by forced marches towards Albenga." (Of the same date.) Gen. Souchet, commanding the centre.
"We have taken 2100 prisoners, among whom are Gen. Baron D'Aspre, and several officers of distinction. The commander in chief continues his success, (Signed) SOUCHET."
Gen. Souchet, lieutenant of the general in chief, to Gen. Buonaparte, first consul of the French republic.
Head-quarters at Melogno, 26 Germinal, April 6.
GENERAL,
For ten days the army of Italy has been engaged with the enemy. Finding myself detached from the army of the commander in chief, Massena, and having an opportunity to give you intelligence of the army, I think it my duty to do so directly. On the 16th Germinal, Gen. Melas attacked in person the heights of Savona. Lieut. Gen. Souchet, who commanded them, withstood during the whole day the attack of the enemy on Cadiburna and Montenotte, in order that he might be able to send to the fort of Savona what was necessary for its defence, and to effect his retreat to Genoa; for at the commencement of the day he could easily perceive that the enemy had such a superiority of forces that he could not hope to overcome them. He threw a garrison of 700 men into the fort of Savona, and in the evening effected his retreat to Albisola. The same day Gen. Miollis was attacked on the Riviere de Levante. He was at first obliged to fall back; but on the 17th Gen. Massena advanced hither in person, beat the Austrians, and took from them 2500 prisoners, among whom are Gen. Baron D'Aspre.
On the 20th Gen. Massena attacked the enemy at Salsello and Albisola. The affair continued the whole day, and on the 21st Gen. Massena briskly repulsed the enemy, and took from them a number of prisoners.
On the 23d, 24th and 25th, Gen. Massena had sharp engagements, the result of which was constantly in our favour. He took from the enemy 4500 prisoners, seven standards, and six pieces of cannon.
On the 13th, however, I had evacuated the position of St. Jacques, and had advanced to the line of Borghetto. The Madonna de la Nave was taken and retaken several times. The Hungarian grenadiers suffered considerably at Melogno, where they were vigorously repulsed. The 17th, and the grenadiers of the 35th, distinguished themselves in a particular manner. Observing that the enemy were endeavouring to turn me, I determined to advance to the line of Borghetto. During this time, Gen. Zablouowski completely beat the division of the enemy which was debouching by Tanaro, and had already arrived at Pieve. He took from them 500 prisoners.
On the 19th, having received orders from Gen. Massena to attack the enemy, I marched on the 20th. The troops took by assault and the bayonet the tower and redoubt of Melogno, with 400 prisoners, 12 of whom were officers. The chief of the battalion of Vadal, belonging to the 34th demi-brigade, was the first who rushed into the entrenchments. The colonel of the Austrian regiment of Orange was killed.
The numerous redoubts of Settepiani were taken on the 21st. Gen. Compere, with a part of the 7th light-infantry, the grenadiers of the 34th and 10th, favoured by a very thick fog, surrounded the enemy, and took 1200 prisoners of the regiments of Hoff and of the Prince of Orange, among whom are a major and two lieut. colonels. One standard only fell into our hands, the rest having been concealed among the rocks.
My loss in these different affairs does not exceed 120 wounded, and 30 killed! The loss of the enemy, independently of the prisoners, has been much greater.
Among the brave men whom the army has to regret, is Clavel, chief of battalion, of the 10th. Gen. Clauzel, who commanded those different expeditions, is entitled to much praise. The 7th light-infantry, and their commander, Boyer, particularly distinguished themselves.
On the 20th, Gen. Clauzel was engaged the whole day on the small hills in the neighbourhood of St. Jacques. He took prisoners 150 Hungarian grenadiers. Chevalier, chief of battalion, assistant to the Adjutant-General Solignac, was killed. We fought the whole day of the 22d. Gen. Solignac was wounded.
Gen. Oudinot, chief of the staff, who was the bearer of dispatches from the commander in chief, has just joined me. I am on the heights of Finale and Melogno. The 14th demi-brigade has just arrived. We are going to redouble our efforts for a general and decisive attack.
Oudinot, chief of the staff, to Buonaparte, first consul of the French Republic.
Head-quarters at La Pietra, 16 Germinal, April 19.
GENERAL,
The continual movements which the commander in chief has been obliged to make since the 16th (April 6) having prevented him from giving you intelligence, I think it proper to supply that deficiency. On that day the enemy attacked us in our whole line: they were repulsed on the right and in the centre. The army which the enemy have on Montenotte and St. Jacques will be briskly attacked by Melogno and Sosselle. If our troops attack with their usual courage, which we have no reason to doubt, a great part of that corps will be surrounded. Lieut. Gen. Soult, who commands the centre, which occupied Montenotte, on the extremity of its left, perceiving that the column which was advancing against him by Montenotte, was much more considerable than that under his command, and which had made a movement to the right to support the Bochetta, evacuated the heights of Savona, and advanced to Albisola, to join the rest of the army.
On the 17th, Lieut. Gen. Soult, after disputing the position of St. Jacques and Melogno, retired to the line of Borghetto, in order to have time to receive intelligence there from the commander in chief.
On the 21st, Gen. Souchet attacked and took the heights of Melogno. Massena, commander in chief, and Lieut. Gen. Soult, by di-

ferent manœuvres, drew the enemy into the valley of Albiscola. All who opposed him there were either killed or taken prisoners. General Miollis occupies and commands in Genoa. On these different days, General Massena in person took 6000 prisoners, among whom are one general, two colonels, several majors, 200 officers; also seven standards and 5 pieces of cannon. Gen. Souchet, on his part, took in these different engagements 1800 prisoners, and one standard. I have arrived here by order of the commander in chief, to concert with Gen. Souchet the movement which is to take place on the 1st of Floreal (April 20.)
PARIS, 7 Floreal (April 27.) The Journal de Paris , of the 6th inst. announces that the army of the Rhine has made a general movement, and that it is at this moment engaged. Hostilities have begun on the Rhine, and the army is at this moment engaged. [L'Ami des Loix.] The Publiciste states the same fact, as do several other journals, and mentions the momentary expectation of important intelligence from the Rhine. According to letters from Venice and other places, it appears that the Austrian government has endeavoured to soothe the resentment of the emperor Paul, by offering to surrender to him the fortress of Ancona and its dependencies. The Hamburgh mail has at length resuscitated Suwarrows, and restored him to the good graces of the Emperor Paul. The campaign on the Rhine is yet confined to skirmishes between the respective armies.
Domestic Intelligence.
NORFOLK, May 24. On Thursday last, about 6 o'clock in the afternoon, the United States frigate Chesapeake, Samuel Barron, Esq. commander, dropped down from Gosport to Lambert's Point, where she anchored. She got under weigh at Gosport expeditiously, though but with few hands on board. As her sails filled, a band of music on the quarter deck played the President's march, and at other intervals enlivened the scene by their performance. As she passed the shipping that lay in the harbour, she fired a salute of 13 guns, which was handsomely returned by every vessel that mounted a gun; and it was gratifying to observe the ships of foreign nations with equal zeal exert themselves on the occasion. The wharves and houses next the river were lined with people, who with three cheers welcomed her as she passed the town-point; indeed, from the expression of joy, and the smiles which gladdened every countenance, the scene appeared as it was—an interesting one. At Fort Norfolk, another salute of 13 guns was fired from her, which was returned by the fort. The troops under the command of Capt. Bruff were turned out, and displayed themselves whilst she glided before them. Thus, from the Chesapeake, the navy of the United States receives no small addition of strength.
PHILADELPHIA, May 28. Yesterday morning the President of the United States left this city, on his journey to the seat of Government, at the city of Washington. The President was accompanied by his private secretary, Mr. Shaw; and we understand goes by way of Lancaster and Fredericktown.
NEW-YORK, May 29. A letter from Washington (Penn.) of May 28th, says, that owing to a quarrel between some individuals of the Choctaw and Chickasaw nations of Indians, there is a probability of a war between those two nations.
Extract of a letter from Lisbon, dated February 27. Last night about 9 o'clock we felt a very severe shock of a vertical earthquake, which threw down part of an old palace and some adjoining houses; and at three this morning we felt it again. The former took place in the midst of a tremendous fall of rain, which was so very heavy as to wash away a great quantity of stone and part of the destroyed palace about fifty yards from the place where they fell. The inhabitants were very much alarmed, but fortunately there were no lives lost.
A respectable merchant of this city is said to have received advice, that a ticket which he held in the English Lottery, is drawn the highest prize, viz. Thirty Thousand Pounds Sterling.
Extract of a letter from Maryland, dated 19th of May. On the first day of this month there was a promising crop of wheat with us as I ever saw; it reminded me of old times; and I was not without some hope that the Hessian Fly had left us; but to the great disappointment and mortification of the farmers, on the fourth day of the month the wheat was observed to be on the decline, and now it is truly melancholy to look at, being fuller of Fly than was ever known. I never saw it have so dreary an appearance, and many of us I fear will not make our seed. I understand that those who have sowed what is called the early wheat will succeed, there being no fly in it. If this is true, I will endeavour to procure some and sow of that, and pursue the top dressing, as recommended in Essays and notes on husbandry.
NEW-HAVEN, June 4. Mr. Webster, of this city, we understand, is engaged in completing the system for the instruction of youth, which he began in the year 1783. He has in hand a Dictionary of the
American Language, a work long since projected, but which other occupations have delayed till this time. The plan contemplated extends to a small Dictionary for schools, one for the counting-house, and a large one for men of science. The first is nearly ready for the press; the second and third will require the labour of some years. It is found that a work of this kind is absolutely necessary, on account of considerable differences between the American and English language. New circumstances, new modes of life, new laws, new ideas of various kinds, give rise to new words, and have already made many material differences between the language of England and America. Some new words are introduced in America, and many more new significations are annexed to words, which it is necessary to explain. It is probable that the alterations in the tenures of land, and the ecclesiastical polity, will dismiss from the language in America several hundred words which belong to the English. The differences in the language of the two countries will continue to multiply, and render it necessary that we should have Dictionaries of the American language.
BOSTON, June 7. Yesterday the Hon. DWIGHT FOSTER, Esq. was elected a Senator of the United States, in the room of the Hon. Mr. Dexter, appointed Secretary at War. By the resolution passed yesterday, the General Court is to be in session on the 18th of November next.
The wise decision of the Legislature yesterday, will diffuse pleasure and satisfaction throughout every federal part of the United States; as the inevitable consequence of the patriotic measure will be, to continue JOHN ADAMS in the Chair of the Presidency of the United States; and defeat the insidious designs of those whose tongues are loud in his praises; but whose hearts, one and indivisible, are devoted to him who regards it as a matter of indifference, whether a man believes in "Twenty Gods," or denies the existence of any God.
The Hon. Mr. Dexter, Secretary at War, has set out, since our last, for the city of Washington. The action between the Constellation and the Vengeance is spoken of in the English papers in terms of honourable panegyric. Many of the principal merchants at St. Thomas have lately failed.
The ship Columbus, Skillings, from Tennessee to Jamaica, was captured the 4th of April, by the French corvette brig Carieuse, captain Radlet, mounting 18 guns, 9 pounders, in lat. 14 : 30, N. long. 54, W. The crew were all taken out of the ship except the cook and boy; the captain by many entreaties was suffered to remain on board; 3 officers and 8 men were put in the ship, which was ordered for Cayenne. Capt. Skillings persuaded the captors they could not reach their port of destination; and advised them to bear away for Guadaloupe; which plan their ignorance led them to adopt, and to resign in a great measure the navigation of the ship to him; by which means he carried her within thirty miles of Antigua, when he was recaptured by the English privateer ship Barton, on the 18th of April, and arrived at Antigua the next morning, after getting on shore in going into port.
June 10. At the Circuit Court for the District of Virginia, sitting at Richmond, the infamous James Thompson Callender has been indicted for the libelous publication entitled " The Prospect before us. " Through the exertion of his friends, (for to the disgrace of our country such fellows have their friends) the Marshal experienced some difficulty in finding him; but, it is said, he at length succeeded.
The cargoes of thirteen vessels, which sailed on the 28th of May last, under convoy of the United States ship Warren, captain Newman, are estimated to be worth 200,000 dollars.
Mr. Pickering, on hearing that Gen. Marshall had accepted his late birth, expressed the highest satisfaction, and politely declared, he did not think that the Department had ever been so well filled. It is also much to the credit both of Mr. Adams and Mr. Pickering, that they both still speak in the handsomest terms of each other; by which those secret enemies who endeavour to widen the breach, have completely missed their aim.
A Philadelphia paper of the 24th ult. contains the following extract of a letter from Paris, dated March 24, 1800. "Buonaparte, at an early age, unites sagacity with experience and industry. Sensible that some important change must be wrought in the minds of Frenchmen, in order to fix that volatility of spirit, which by its continual effervescence has contributed to form half a dozen revolutions in half as many years, he has called on a committee of the most learned of our civil and clerical, to form a kind of religious code, which shall best accord with the present belief of the most learned and most wise of our nation. This business has been pursued with great attention and industry; and we are now publicly told a National and Christian form of religion, partaking in its principles of the Roman Catholic, the English and Scotch Presbyterian Churches, will soon be brought forward for general adoption; and you will perhaps be surprised to hear that the plan is almost universally applauded."
In several of the French departments of the West it is believed that Buonaparte is descended from the person who wore the iron mask, and who is supposed by many to have been the elder brother of Louis XIV. They hence infer that the first consul has a fair claim of inheritance to the crowns of France.
Providence, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11.
Extract of a letter from Captain Talbot, of the United States frigate Constitution, to the Secretary of the Navy, dated 12th of May, 1800.
"I have now to acquaint you, Sir, that I have for some time since been meditating an enterprize against a French armed ship lying at Port Plate, protected by her own guns, and a fort of three heavy cannon. It was my first intention to have gone in with the Constitution, and to have silenced the fort and ship, which had all her guns on one side to co-operate with the fort in defending against any hostile force. But after the best information I could gain, I found it to be somewhat dangerous to approach the entrance of the harbour, with a ship of the draught of water of the Constitution. Having detained the sloop Sally, which had left Port Plate but a few days before, and which was to have returned there again previous to her sailing to the United States, I conceived this sloop would be a suitable vessel for a disguise; I therefore manned her at sea from the Constitution with about 90 brave seamen and marines; the latter were to be commanded by Captain Carmick and Lieutenant Amory, when on shore; but the entire command of this detachment I gave to Mr. Hull, my first lieutenant, who entered the harbour of Port Plate yesterday in open day, approached the fort and ship, with his men in the hold of the sloop, except five or six to work her in. They ran along side of the ship, and boarded her sword in hand, without the loss of one man killed or wounded. At the moment the ship was boarded, agreeably to my plan, captain Carmick and lieutenant Amory landed with the marines, up to their necks in water, and spiked up the cannon in the fort, before the commanding officer in the castle had time to recollect or prepare himself for defence. Perhaps no enterprize of the same moment was ever better executed; and I feel myself under great obligations to lieutenant Hull, captain Carmick, and lieutenant Amory, for their avidity in undertaking to execute this enterprize, and for the handsome manner in which they performed this bold and daring undertaking."
"The prize ship mounts 4 fives and 2 nines; she was formerly the British packet Sandwich, and from the boasting publications at the Cape, and from the declaration of the officers, it appears, that she is the fastest sailer that swims; and that she has run three or four years, if I forget not, as a privateer out of France, and with greater success than any other that ever sailed out of their ports. She is a beautiful copper-bottomed ship; her cargo consists principally of sugar and coffee."
The Treasury office of Hartford, in the state of Connecticut, was forcibly entered on the night of the 15th ult. and robbed of between three and four hundred dollars, principally small change, belonging to the Missionary Society. A reward of one hundred dollars is offered for apprehending the villains.
Last week arrived at Bristol the ship Hope, Capt. Jonathan Donnison, in 157 days from Canton. Capt. D. touched at St. Helena, where he learnt that the Essex frigate, Capt. Preble, which failed in January last, with convoy for Batavia, had reached the Cape of Good-Hope in safety.
The city of Philadelphia has, for some time past, been alarmed by the inhuman proceedings of a banditti, whose object evidently is, to assassinate every woman who appears in the streets, after night, unprotected. On Wednesday the 28th ult. as a woman was returning home after dark, along South-street, she was overtaken by two of these ruffians, who inhumanly struck her with some pointed instrument. The blow from one of them put a period to her existence on Thursday.
The Hon. Mr. MARSHALL has accepted the appointment of Secretary of State.
Letters from Germany speak of a new coalition. It is said that Russia, Prussia, Sweden, Denmark, Saxony, and the Landgrave of Hesse Cassel, have entered into a treaty for the purpose of preventing the aggrandizement of Austria in Italy, by admitting the Rhine to be the boundary of France. Consequently as long as the war continues, some of the powers of Europe must remain neutral; but if a peace should be concluded between the two principal belligerent powers, and the neutrality of the others would cease, and the war would recommence merely to counteract the terms of the treaty. This new coalition furnishes an explanation, both for the doubtful conduct of the Court of Vienna, which looks with apprehension on the war, which may probably follow a separate peace, and for the contradictory conduct of Paul I. who is equally ready to fight for or against Austria.
From this it would appear, that the object of the new coalition would be to establish the status quo ante bellum ; but is it possible that England, Russia and Prussia should feel the same interests, and act for the same objects? England wishes that France should not retain Belgium, and that she should lose her influence in Holland; but it certainly does not pretend that the Emperor should renounce every species of aggrandizement, because upon the same principle England must give up all her conquests in the East and West-Indies; which is contrary to her expectation. Russia certainly has stated its object of obtaining a port in the Mediterranean, and it already considers Corfu as its own. The Court of Prussia certainly never supposed that the coalesced powers would make peace without an indemnification, and what then becomes of the status quo ? The interest of Prussia is to obtain an equivalent for itself, and to secure to the French Republic an increase of power, which will enable it to maintain the balance of power
in Europe, and to secure the independence of the other states. It is evident that it cannot attain this double object, by a coalition with Russia and England.
Until we have certain evidence of the existence of this second coalition, we shall consider it as the invention of our Journalists. [Paris paper.]
From late London Papers. Some time since the king of Prussia appointed a commission to attempt the making of sugar from turnips. In their report on the subject, they state that the result of their experiments has been highly satisfactory. They prove that excellent white and brown sugar can be made from turnips, the white at 1 shilling per pound, and the brown at sixpence. The sugar is equal in quality to that of the West-Indies. After the extraction of the sugar, a liquor equal to brandy can be extracted from the turnip. The commission further say that a mile and a half square of ground will furnish enough sugar for all the states, besides twenty millions five hundred thousand quarts of brandy, made from the turnips after the extraction of the sugar.
Jackson, the leader of the mutineers on board the Danz, was secretary to Packer in the navy of the year 1798. It is said Lord Provost was cautioned not to take on board a man of his description, but as he was an excellent seaman, and had conducted himself with propriety since his acquittal, his Lordship did not apprehend any danger from him. It is said also, that Jackson had the offer of being made a non-commissioned officer, which he however refused, alleging that as he was an impressed man, he held himself at liberty to make his escape whenever he had the opportunity; were he to accept an appointment, he would then acknowledge himself a volunteer. When he had obtained possession of the vessel, he carried her into Camaret Bay, and sent a boat on board La Calombe, French brig, of 18 guns. The Lieutenant of the brig returned with a party of soldiers, and asked Lord Provost to whom he surrendered? His Lordship replied, to the French nation, but not to mutineers. Both vessels immediately got under weigh for Brest, where they arrived on the 17th ult. having been chased for several hours by the Anson and Boadicea, of 44 guns each, and would probably have been taken had not the mutineers hoisted the honorary and numerical signal, which induced our frigates to suppose the Danz was in chase of an enemy. Lord Provost, from his cabin window, sunk the box containing all the private signals of the fleet. The mutineers were all confined in Dikan prison.
The translators seem to have exhausted Kotzebue to the very dregs. After having done all his nonsense and immorality into English, they must needs give us an account how and when all this nonsense and immorality was composed! Yet after all we complain of the scarcity of rags!
The ladies at Paris are no longer called Citoyennes , but Mesdames . This charge was by the Chief Consul's direction, who ordered that in all cards of invitation sent by his wife, each lady should be addressed as Madame .
The surgeons employed by the Humane Society for the restoration of persons in a state of suspended animation, have sat on the body of the Habeas Corpus Act; but though all the causes, which were supposed to have brought on the suspension, were completely removed, still the unfortunate object remained insensible to their endeavours. It being, however, considered as a great curiosity, the body is not to be buried; but has been given to Mr. Pitt, to be put among the collections of the virtuoso, by whom, we understand, the Constitution and Bill of Rights have been preferred, and are to this hour in as high preservation as the best Egyptian mummies.
Married. In the Trinity Church, Boston "by the Rev. Mr. Parker, Christopher Seaton, Esq. of the island of Tobago, to the amiable Miss Penelope Wentworth Butler, of Hingham (formerly of Providence) a young lady possessed of every qualification that can render the marriage state happy."
Died. In this town, on the 9th inst. Phebe Lockwood, in the 22d year of her age: Exemplarily discreet in health, patient in sickness, and tranquil in death. The company of her friends is desired at her funeral this afternoon, at the third hour, without further notice, to meet at her father Brown's. At Newbury-Port, Mr. George Jerry Osborne, Printer, of Portsmouth, N. H. At Johnson, Mr. Isaac Olney. In the West-Indies, Captain Sandford Brown, of this town.
The Most Worshipful PELEG CLARKE, Grand Master. THE Grand Lodge of the State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations will celebrate the Festival of St. John the Baptist, on Tuesday the 24th current, at the Lodge-Room in Providence, at 9 o'clock in the morning, at which time and place the officers and members thereof, and all Lodges Subordinate thereto, will give their attendance. All Brethren within the State, and of the neighbouring Lodges, are respectfully invited to attend. By Order, JOHN HANDY, Grand Sec'y. Newport, June 10, 1800.
To be Let, AND ENTERED UPON IMMEDIATELY. ONE half of a new two story DWELLING-HOUSE, situated at the north-westerly part of the town, on Olney's Line, in called. Enquire of RICHARD and THOMAS JACKSON, or JEREMIAH OLNEY. June 11. (2nd)

Selected Poetry.
[A small newspaper is published at the United States settlement at the Natches, in a late number of which we notice the following tribute paid to the memory of the late illustrious WASHINGTON.]
LINES
By DOCTOR G. PFEIFFER. Sacred to the memory of the late and much lamented GEN. GEORGE WASHINGTON. To be sung at the Chappell, on this day.
I. HAIL , sainted spirit of unrivall'd worth! Hail, glorious chief, who gave to freedom birth! How did the Heavens with joyful peals resound, When thy death-tidings roll'd the spheres around! II. But ah! how diff'rent is the scene below, Where lots of thee, has fill'd each heart with woe! Ye muses, all your choicest incense bring, And round his hallow'd tomb, soft dirges sing. III. Daughter of Heav'n, fair Freedom's genius, weep: And at his shrine unceasing vigils keep — Let distant ages learn his matchless fame, And unborn millions venerate his name. — Natches, February 22, 1800.
From the New-York SPECTATOR.
THE ADDRESS
Of the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to all their brethren and friends in the United States.
DEAR FRIENDS,
WE, the members of the general conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, beg leave to address you with earnestness on a subject of the first importance.
We have long lamented the great national evil of NEGRO SLAVERY, which has existed for so many years, and does still exist in many of these United States. We have considered it as repugnant to the unalienable rights of mankind, and to the very essence of civil liberty, but more especially to the spirit of the Christian religion. For, inconsistent as is the conduct of this otherwise free, this independent nation, in respect to the slavery of the negroes, when considered in a civil and political view; it is still more so, when examined in the light of the gospel. For the whole spirit of the New Testament militates in the strongest manner against the practice of slavery — and the influence of the gospel, wherever it has long prevailed (except in many of these United States has utterly abolished that most criminal part of slavery, the possessing and using the bodies of men by arbitrary will, and with almost uncontrollable power.
The small number of adventurers from Europe, who visit the West-Indies for the sole purpose of amassing fortunes, are hardly worth our notice; any farther than their influence reaches for the enslaving and destroying of the human race. But, that so large a proportion of the inhabitants of this country, who so truly boast of the liberty they enjoy, and are so justly jealous of that inestimable blessing, should continue to deprive of every trace of liberty so many of their fellow creatures, equally capable with themselves of every social blessing, and of eternal happiness, — is an inconsistency which is scarcely to be paralleled in the history of mankind!
Influenced by these views and feelings, we have for many years restricted ourselves by the strongest regulation, from partaking of the "accursed thing;" and have also laid some very mild and tender restrictions on our society at large. But at this general conference we wished, if possible, to give a blow at the root of the enormous evil. For this purpose we maturely weighed every regulation which could be adopted within our own society. — All seemed to be insufficient. We therefore determined at last to rouse up all our influence, in order to hasten, to the utmost of our power, the universal extirpation of this crying sin. To this end, we passed the following resolution: —
"THAT the annual conferences be directed to draw up addresses for the gradual emancipation of the slaves to the legislatures of those states, in which no general laws have been passed for that purpose; that these addresses urge, in the most respectful but pointed manner, the necessity of a law for the gradual emancipation of the slaves; that proper committees be appointed out of the most respectable of our friends for the conducting of the business; and that the presiding elders, deacons and travelling preachers, do procure as many proper signatures as possible to the addresses, and give all the assistance in their power, in every respect, to aid the committees, and to further this blessed undertaking. And that this be continued from year to year, till the desired end be fully accomplished."
What now remains, dear brethren, but that you coincide with us in this great undertaking, for the sake of God, his church, and his holy cause; for the sake of your country, and for the sake of the miserable and oppressed? Give your signatures to the addresses; hand them for signatures to all your acquaintances, and all the friends of liberty; urge the justice, the utility, the necessity of the measure; persevere in this blessed work; and the Lord, we are persuaded, will finally crown your endeavours with the wished for success. O what a glorious country would be ours, if equal liberty was every where established, and equal liberty every where enjoyed!
We are not ignorant that several of the legislatures of these states have most generously stepped forth in the cause of liberty, and passed laws for the emancipation of the slaves. But many of the members of our society, even in those states, may be highly serviceable to this great cause, by using their influence, by writing or otherwise, with their friends in other states, whether those friends be methodists or not.
Come then, brethren, let us join hand and heart together in this important enterprize. God is with us; and will, we doubt not, accompany with his blessing all our labours of love. We could write to you a volume on the present subject; but we know that in general you have already weighed it; and we have great confidence that your utmost assistance will not be wanting, and we promise to aid you with zeal and diligence.
That our gracious God may bless you with all the riches of his grace, and that we may all meet where perfect liberty and perfect love shall eternally reign, is the ardent prayer of
Your affectionate brethren, Signed in behalf and by order of the general conference.
THOMAS COLE, } Bishops. FRANCIS ASBURY, } RICHARD WHATCOAT, } EZEKIEL COOPER, } The WILLIAM M'KENDREE, } Committee. JESSE LEE, }
John Carlile,
Cabinet and Chair-Maker,
At his shop, in Benefit Street, opposite the Dwelling-House of the late Col. NIGHTINGALE.
CONTINUES to carry on the Cabinet and Chair-making business, in all its branches; where may be had, at the shortest notice, all kinds of fashionable FURNITURE, made in the best manner.
He has at all times on hand, READY-MADE FURNITURE, suitable for exportation, which may be delivered at a short notice.
Gun-Carriages of all sizes, for armed vessels, made at a short notice, of durable materials, and on the most approved construction.
June 4.
Forty Dollars Reward.
RAN away from the subscriber, on the 28th of May last, an indentured APPRENTICE LAD, named CHARLES M. KINGMAN, in the 20th year of his age, about 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, rather light complexion, brown hair, blue eyes, and has some impediment in his speech. Had on, when he went away, a striped cotton shirt, brown short coat, duck trowsers, castor hat, and carried with him a bundle of other cloaths. Whoever will return said lad to his master, and insure him to serve his time out faithfully, agreeable to his indenture, shall have forty dollars reward.
All masters of vessels, and others, are forbid harbouring said lad on the penalty of the law.
ABEL ALLEN. June 4.
For Sale,
THAT pleasantly situated FARM, and elegant stand for a TAVERN, in Mendon, long known by the name of AMALION'S TAVERN, containing 130 acres of the best land in the county of Worcester, being well watered, and equally proportioned as to Mowing, Pasturing, Tillage and Woodland; with an orchard that will produce apples for 150 barrels of cider, yearly, and a large number of young trees, grafted with different kinds of fruit. There are about 50 tons of English Hay cut on said farm yearly. There is a new House, two stories high, well finished, with a hall 36 feet long and 18 feet wide; likewise, another convenient Dwelling-House, a Hatter's Shop, two Barns and Stables, and a Cider-House, Mill and Press, and other out-houses. It is one of the best stands for a tavern of any in the country, being on the TURNPIKE-ROAD from Hartford to Boston, and likewise on the road from Providence to Worcester, and a few rods north of the Meeting-House in Mendon. There is one tavern within 3 miles, and no other within 6 miles, in any direction. The farm lies nearly in a square body; three sides of it adjoin on roads. It is well fenced into square lots, with good stone wall. For pleasantness, health and profit, none exceed it. For conditions of sale, and further particulars, apply to the subscribers, on the premises.
MILLER and FULLER.
Mendon, May 30.
Take Notice.
WHEREAS the Freemen of the town of Providence, in Town-Meeting legally assembled, on the 26th day of April, 1800, directed a tax of six thousand dollars to be assessed on the rateable property of the inhabitants of said town, and others: — 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 in the lower room of the Exchange Coffee-House, during the ten days immediately preceding the 21st day of July next, Sundays excepted, and at all other times, from this date until that period, at his own house. Any persons applying as above, will have two per cent. deducted from the sums assessed on them, agreeably to the order of said town.
BENJAMIN TAYLOR, Collector.
May 28.
PUBLIC Notice is hereby given, that the Sale at Public Auction of the Real Estate of GEORGE WASHINGTON RHODES, deceased, notified to be held this day on the premises, stands adjourned to Monday the seventh day of August next, at one o'clock, P. M. at which time said Estate will be sold on the premises.
SAMUEL ABORN, jun. Administrator.
May 12.
To be Sold,
A FEW in the new Benevolent Congregational Meeting-House, on the lower floor, in a pleasant situation. For particulars, inquire of the Printer. May 28.
New, Cheap and Good!
JUST OPENED, And will be sold on the lowest terms for cash, by Elisha Dyer,
A General assortment of fancy Spring and Summer GOODS, worth the attention of customers.
ALSO, received last week, 16,000 wt. of first quality TOBACCO, on terms and credit to suit the purchaser, for good security. May 28. (few.)
State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations. May 17, 1800.
THE Creditors of John Aldrich, of Smithfield, in the county of Providence, labourer, are hereby notified to appear, if they shall think fit, at the General Assembly to be holden at Newport, on the second Monday in June next, then and there to shew cause, if any they may have, why his petition for the benefit of the act passed in June 1756, entitled, "An act for the relief of insolvent debtors," ought not to be granted.
SAMUEL EDDY, Sec'y.
Boston, May 15, 1800.
PROPOSALS,
By JOHN RUSSELL,
FOR PUBLISHING, by SUBSCRIPTION,
DISCOURSES on DAVILA.
THE editor of this work respectfully acquaints the public, that he has been induced to the undertaking, by many friends of high political reputation.
These Discourses were originally published in the Gazette of the United States; but as they did not allow to Man that portion of political virtue which our citizens, at the time of their first appearance (in 1790) but too erroneously supposed him to possess, they were either condemned as a libel on his nature, or viewed with jealousy, as inimical to freedom. Our observations from abroad, and experience at home, have since taught us the lessons they were intended to inculcate; and those evils which they were designed to prevent, have borne the testimony of their truth.
It is unnecessary to mention the rank or reputation of the supposed author, to give celebrity to the work. The Discourses are allowed, by the best judges, to form a complete essay on associated man; in which practical improvement is drawn from profound investigation; his principles of action, as an individual, traced to their effects in his relative capacity; and from the light of history, and a thorough knowledge of his nature, his past disorders are made subservient to his present and future happiness.
The maxims inculcated are calculated to secure virtue, by laying a restraint upon vice; to give age and vigour to the tree of liberty, by pruning its excrescences, and to guard it against the tempest of faction, by the protection of a firm and well balanced government.
A work, combining so much excellence, on a subject of such dignity and importance, cannot be too much appreciated. Conceiving it to be both useful and honourable to his country, the editor is desirous to give it a more durable publicity; and believing the work will meet with a welcome reception from his fellow-citizens, he presumes that to offer proposals will preclude the necessity of soliciting the patronage of the public to forward his design.
Terms and Conditions.
The work will make from 400 to 450 large octavo pages, and will be printed with a handsome type, on the best demy printing paper.
It will be neatly bound and lettered, and delivered to subscribers at two dollars.
Subscriptions received by the editor, at his office, Spring-lane, a few doors east of Messrs. Blake's book-store; at the several book-stores in town, and by the principal Postmasters in this and the State of New-Hampshire.
JOHN BREWER
RESPECTFULLY informs the Public, that he has taken a shop in the House of Mr. Spalding, formerly occupied by Mr. Nelson, where he carries on the
Book-Binding Business.
Those who will favour him with their custom, may depend upon having their work well done and upon the most reasonable terms.
A handsome assortment of Account Books, will be kept constantly for sale. May 21.
Thomas S. Webb
HAS FOR SALE,
At his Paper-Hanging Manufactory, in Broad Street, opposite Dr. Dyer's (west side of the river) a large assortment of
PAPER-HANGINGS.
CONSISTING of upwards of four thousand rolls, suitable for covering rooms, chambers, entries and halls; with festoon, patch, chintz and common borders, from one to ten inches in breadth, by wholesale and retail. A handsome deduction made to those who purchase to sell again. Also, a general assortment of Books and Stationary, Music and Instruments.
C. and B. Clarionets, Hautboys, Flutes, Violins, Flutes, Books of instruction for the Clarionet, Hautboy, Violin, Flute, Forte Piano, &c. and several hundred different songs in sheet music. March 5. (6m.)
Oak and Hemlock Bark
WANTED by the subscriber, for which good pay will be made, if delivered soon. OLIVER BOWEN, jun. May 28.
RED CLOVER SEED.
A QUANTITY of excellent RED CLOVER SEED, just received, and to be sold at a reduced price, by the subscriber — Also, Several other sorts of HAY SEED, Clean BARLEY, FLAX SEED and OATS, and a variety of other Seed. THOMAS JONES. May 21.
For Sale,
At the POST-OFFICE in this Town, DR. LEE's patent New-London Bilious PILLS, celebrated throughout the United States and the West-Indies, in the cure and prevention of intermittent, remittent, bilious, inflammatory and yellow fevers — jaundice, bilious cholic, indigestion, dropsy, gout rheumatism, pleurisy, chlorosis, worms, dysentery, bilious vomitings, convulsion and epileptic fits, asthma, coughs and colds accompanied with costiveness, foul stomach, scurvy, sore throat, hypochondria, and hysterical affections, &c. &c. &c. &c.
Certificates of their efficacy may be seen by applying to the vender, who has the exclusive privilege of vending in this town, and will be regularly supplied with the genuine pills from the patentee. April 2. (3m.)
HAPPY CONTRADICTION.
OLD FRIENDS WITH NEW FACES. An extraordinary event at the opening of the extraordinary year 1800, Being the beginning of the latter end of a century.
AT a tavern last night an old fashion-ed health was drank — "May we never see an old friend with a new face." — Q, who sat in a corner, slyly observed, that it was all JUDGES; that he could satisfy the company they would be all glad to see their friends with new faces. Some grumbled, others laughed, but all seemed curious to learn the particulars; he began thus: —
"Have you never used HOPKINS' RAZOR STROPS? " Yes, said one — No, said another; the experienced applauded the explanation, and those who had been in the habit of mowing their muzzles with handsaws, felt the brushes on their china bristles with eagerness to render their old fashioned faces new to their friends — to satisfy their curiosity Q went on thus.
HOPKINS' RAZOR STROPS, which disappoint the most sanguine by their smooth and agreeable execution, are sold by appointment, at 75 cents, 1 dollar and 25 cents, and 2 dollars each, with the addition of a composition that will keep it in order for ages, at 50 cents.
BUT MARK THE IMPROVEMENT. To men who travel where there are no professional face-scrapers — to camen of every grade — to the whiskered soldier in his huted tent — (how comfortable.)
The new invented and improved Box, containing, in the compass of little more than an ordinary comb-case.
A polished Razor — Comb — Brush — Lather Box, and Mirror — with a box for the surprising composition, all in a Morocco case, most conveniently calculated to fit the pocket without inconvenience.
The whole of this new portable and useful apparatus sold at No. 65, South Third-Street (opposite the United States Bank) Philadelphia; and in Providence, by JEREMIAH F. JENKINS, at No. 8, Market Street.
As only three Dollars. And by the agents usually appointed to dispose of the invaluable and agreeable STROP. Feb. 19. (t.f.)
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, Dropsies 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, none at all, 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 FORB, Providence.