The New-Hampshire gazette and general advertiser (Portsmouth [N.H.]), 1788-02-27 00:00:00

THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE AND GENERAL WEDNESDAY, PORTSMOUTH: By JOHN MELCHER,
[VOLUME XXXII.—No. 1642.] GAZETTE, THE ADVERTISER, FEBRUARY 27, 1788. PRINTED AND PUBLISHED IN MARKET-STREET.
“WHEN ANGRY NATIONS PART IN LEAGUES OF PEACE, LET PRIVATE FEUDS AND CIVIL DISCORDS CEASE.”
PROCEEDINGS of the Massachusetts Convention. (Continued from our last.)
P. M.
The 5th sect. being read, DR. TAYLOR wished to know the meaning of the words “from time to time” in the 3d par.—does it mean, says he, from year to year, from month to month, or from day to day. The Honorable Mr. KING rose, and explained the term.
Mr. WEDGERY read the paragraph, and said by the words, “except such parts as may require secrecy,” Congress might withhold the whole journals under this pretence—and thereby the people be kept in ignorance of their doings.
Hon. Mr. GORHAM exposed the absurdity of any public body publishing all their proceedings. Many things in great bodies are to be kept secret—and records must be brought to maturity before published: In case of treaties with foreign nations, would it be policy to inform the world of the extent of the powers to be vested in our Ambassador, and thus give our enemies opportunity to defeat our negotiations? There is no provision in the Constitution of this State, or of Great-Britain, for any publication of the kind: And yet the people suffer no inconveniency. The printers, no doubt, will be interested to obtain the journals as soon as possible for publication; and they will be published in a book, by Congress, at the end of every session.
Rev. Mr. PERLEY described the alarms and anxiety of the people at the commencement of the war—when the whole country, he said, cried with one voice “why don’t Gen. Washington march into Boston, and drive out the tyrants.” But, said he, Heaven gave us a commander who knew better than to do this:—The Rev. Gentleman said, he was acquainted with the Roman history, and the Grecian too, and he believed there never was, since the creation of the world, a greater General than Washington—except, indeed, Joshua, who was inspired by the Lord of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel. Would it, he asked, have been prudent for that excellent man, Gen. W. previous to the American army’s taking possession of Dorchester heights, to publish to the world his intentions of so doing? No—says he; it would not.
The 1st par. of the 6th section read, DR. TAYLOR . Mr. President, it has hitherto been customary for the gentlemen of Congress, to be paid by the several State legislatures, out of the State treasury: As no State has hitherto failed paying its delegates—why should we leave the good old path? Before the revolution it was considered as a grievance, that the Governors, &c. received their pay from Great-Britain.—They could not, in that case, feel their dependence on the people, when they received their appointments and salaries from the crown. I know not why we should not pay them now as well as heretofore.
Gen. PORTER . Have not delegates been retained from Congress, which is virtually recalling them, because they have not been paid? Has not Rhode-Island failed to pay their delegates?—Should there not be an equal charge throughout the United States, for the payment of the delegates, as there is in this State for the payment of the members of this Convention, met for the general good? It is not advantageous to the people at large, that the delegates to this Convention are paid out of the public treasury? If any inconvenience, however, can be shewn to flow from this plan, I should be glad to hear it.
Hon. Mr. SEDGWICK hoped gentlemen would consider that the federal officers of government would be responsible for their conduct—and as they would regard their reputations, will not affect exorbitant wages. In Massachusetts, and in every other State, the Legislatures have power to provide for their own payment—and, he asked, have they ever established it higher than it ought to be? But on the contrary have they not made it extremely inconsiderable? The Commons of Great-Britain, he said, have the power to affect their own wages, but for two centuries they have never exercised it. Can a man, he asked, who has the least respect for the good opinion of his fellow countrymen, go home to his constituents after having robbed them by voting himself an exorbitant salary? This principle will be a most powerful check—and in respect to economy, the power lodged as it is in this sect. will be more advantageous to the people, than if retained by the State Legislatures. Let us see what the Legislature of Massachusetts have done—they vote the salaries of the Delegates to Congress—and they have voted them such as have enabled them to live in style suited to the dignity of a respectable state, but they have been four times as much, for the same time, as they ever voted themselves. Therefore, concluded the hon. gentleman, if left to themselves to provide for their own payment, as long as they wish for the good opinion of mankind, they will affect no more than they really deserve, as a compensation for their services.
Hon. Mr. KING said, if the arguments on the 4th sect. against an undue controul in the state legislatures, over the Federal Representatives, were in any degree satisfactory, they are so on this.
Gen. THOMPSON . Mr. President, the hon. gentleman means well, and is honest in his sentiments—it is all alike—when we see matters at large, and what it all is, we shall know what to do with it.
Mr. PARSONS . In order that the general government should preserve itself, it is necessary it should preserve justice between the several states. Under the Confederation the power in this sect. would not be just, for each state has a right to send seven members to Congress, though some of them do not pay one tenth so much of the public expenses as others—it is a mere federal government of States, neither equal or proportionate.—If gentlemen would use the same candour that the hon. gentleman from Topsham (General Thompson) does, considering all the parts as connected with others, the Constitution would receive a better discussion.
The 2d par. of 6th sect. read.
Hon. Mr. GORHAM said that this Constitution contained restrictions which were not to be found in any other; and he wished gentlemen who had objected to every paragraph which had been read, would give the Convention credit for those parts which must meet the approbation of every man.
The 8th section of art. 1. containing the POWERS OF CONGRESS , being read,
Gen. BROOKS said, this art. contained more matter than any one yet read, and he wished to know, whether there is not to be some general restrictions to the general articles.
Hon. Mr. KING . Mr. President, it is painful to me to obtrude my sentiments on the Convention, so frequently. However, Sir, I console myself with the idea that my motives are as good as those of more able gentlemen, who have remained silent. Sir, this is a very important clause, and of the highest consequence to the future fortune of the
people of America. It is not my intention to go into any elaborate discussion of the subject—I shall only offer those considerations which have influenced my mind in favour of the article; in the hope that it may tend to reconcile gentlemen to it—It shall not be with a view of exhibiting any particular knowledge of mine:—For such is not my intention. Hitherto we have considered the construction of the general government—we now come, Sir, to the consideration of the powers, with which that government shall be clothed. The introduction to this Constitution, is in these words, “We the people, &c.”—The language of the Confederation, is “We the States, &c.” The latter is a mere Federal Government of States: Those, therefore, that assemble under it have no power to make laws to apply to the individuals of the States confederated: And the attempts to make laws for collective societies, necessarily leave a discretion to comply with them or not. In no instance has there been so frequent deviations from first principles, as in the neglect or refusal to comply with the requisitions of general governments for the collection of monies. In the ancient governments this has been a principal defect. In the United Provinces of the Netherlands it has been conspicuously so. A celebrated political writer—I mean John de Witt , formerly Pensioner of Holland, says, that in the confederacy of 1579, though the articles were declared equally binding on the several Provinces, yet any one had it in its power to comply with the requisitions of the generality, or not; and some Provinces taking advantage of this discretionary power, never paid any thing. During 40 years of their war with Spain, the Province of Holland paid 53 parts of an hundred, of all the expences thereof—Two or three of the Provinces never so much as passed a resolution to pay any thing; and De Witt says, that two of them paid not a single gilder. What was the consequence; In one instance, Holland compelled a neighbouring Province to comply with the requisitions, by marching a force into it. This was a great instance of usurpation, made in the time of a war. The prince of Orange, and the generality, found that they would not continue the war, in this manner. What was to be done? They were obliged to resort to the expedient of doubling the ordinary requisitions on the States: Some of the Provinces were prevailed upon to grant these requisitions fully; in order to induce Holland to do the same.—She seeing the other states appearing thus forward, not only granted the requisitions, but paid them—the others did not. Thus was a single province obliged to bear almost the whole burdens of the war—And one hundred years after, the accounts of this war, were unsettled: What was the reason? Holland had but one voice in the States General:—That voice was feeble when opposed by the rest. This fact is true.—And the history of our own country, is a melancholy proof of the same truth—Massachusetts has paid while other States have been delinquent. How was the war carried on with the paper money? Requisitions on the States for that money were made? Who paid them Massachusetts, and a few others. A requisition of 29,000,000 dollars was quoted on Massachusetts—and it was paid. This State has paid in her proportion of the old money: How comes it then, that gentlemen have any of this money by them?—Because the other States have shamefully neglected to pay their quotas. Do you ask for redress? You are scoffed at. The next requi-
tion, was for 11,000,000 of dollars, 6,000,000 of which, were to be paid in facilities—the rest in silver money—for discharging the interest of the national debt. If the Legislatures found a difficulty in paying the hard money, why did they not pay the paper? But 1,200,000 dollars have been paid,—And six States have not paid a farthing of it. [After mentioning another requisition equally disregarded, Mr. K. said.] Two States have not paid a single farthing, from the moment they signed the Confederation, to this day; if my documents are to be depended on, and they are open to inspection of all. Now, Sir, what faith is to be put in requisitions on the States, for monies to pay our domestick creditors, and discharge our foreign debts—for monies lent us in the day of difficulty and distress.—Sir, experience proves, as well as any thing can be proved, that no dependence can be placed on such requisitions.—What method then can we devise to compel the delinquent States to pay their quotas—Sir, I know of none.—Laws to be effective, therefore, must not be laid on States, but upon individuals. Sir, it has been objected to the proposed Constitution, that the power is too great—and by this Constitution is to be sacred.—But if the want of power, is the defect in the old confederation—there is a fitness and propriety in adopting what is here proposed, which gives the necessary power wanted.—Congress now have power to call for what monies, and in what proportion they please—but they have no authority to compel a compliance therewith. It is an objection in some gentlemen’s minds, that Congress should possess the power of the purse and the sword. But, Sir, I would ask, whether every government is not possessed of this power—and the security of the people lies in their having it. The first revenue will be raised from the Impost, to which there is no objection—the next from the Excises—and if these are not sufficient, direct taxes must be laid. Sir, my intention in rising, was to say, that if we mean to support an efficient federal government, the old Confederation being inadequate thereto, the proposed Constitution is the only one that can be substituted.
The Hon. Mr. WHITE said, in giving this power we give up every thing, and Congress with the purse-strings in their hands, will use the sword with a witness.
Mr. DAWES said, he thought the powers in the paragraph under debate should be fully vested in Congress—We have suffered, said he, for want of such authority in the federal head. This will be evident, if we take a short view of our agriculture, commerce and manufactures. Our agriculture has not been encouraged by the imposition of national duties on rival produce: Nor can it be, so long as the several States may make contradictory laws. This has induced our farmers to raise only what they wanted to consume in their own families; I mean, however, after raising enough to pay their TAXES: For I insist, that upon the old plan, the hand has borne the burden. For as Congress could not make laws whereby they could obtain a revenue, in their own way, from impost or excise, they multiplied their requisitions on the several States.—When a State was thus called on, it would perhaps impose new duties on its own trade, to procure money for paying its quota of federal demands. This would drive the trade to such neighbouring-States as made no such new impositions: Thus the revenue would be lost with the trade, and the only resort would be a direct tax. As to commerce, it is well known that the different States now pursue
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different systems of duties in regard to each other. By this, and for want of general laws of prohibition through the Union, we have not secured even our own domestic traffic, that passes from State to State. This is contrary to the policy of every nation on earth. Some nations have no other commerce. The great and flourishing empire of China has but little commerce beyond her own territories; and no country is better circumstanced than we for an exclusive traffic from State to State: Yet even in this we are rivalled by foreigners—by these foreigners to whom we are least indebted. A vessel from Roseway or Halifax finds as hearty a welcome with its fish and whale-bone at the southern ports, as though it was built, navigated and freighted from Salem or Boston.—And this must be the case, until we have laws comprehending and embracing alike all the States in the Union.
But it is not only our coasting trade, our whole commerce is going to ruin. Congress has not had power to make even a trade law, which shall confine the importation of foreign goods to the ships of the producing or the consuming country: If we had such a law, we should not go to England for the goods of other nations; nor would British vessels be the carriers of American produce from our sister States. In the States southward of the Delaware, it is agreed, that three fourths of the produce are exported, and three fourths of the returns are made in British bottoms. It is said, that for exporting lumber one half the property goes to the carrier, and of the produce in general, it has been computed, that when it is shipped for London from a southern State, to the value of one million of dollars, the British merchant draws from that sum three hundred thousand dollars, under the names of freight and charges. This is money which belongs to the New-England States, because we can furnish the ships as well as, and much better, than the British. Our sister States are willing we should receive these benefits, and that they should be secured to us by national laws; but until that is done, their private merchants will, no doubt, for the sake of long credit, or some other such temporary advantage, prefer the ships of foreigners: And yet we have suffered these ignominious burthens, rather than trust our own representatives with power to help us; and we call ourselves free and independent States: We are independent of each other, but we are slaves to Europe. We have no uniformity in duties, imposts, excises or prohibitions. Congress has no authority to withhold advantages from foreigners, in order to obtain advantages from them. By the 9th of the old articles, Congress may enter into treaties and alliances under certain provisos, but Congress cannot pledge, that a single State shall not render the whole treaty of commerce a nullity.
Our manufactures are another great subject, which has received no encouragement by national duties on foreign manufactures, and they never can by any authority in the old Confederation.—It has been said, that no country can produce manufactures until it be overstocked with inhabitants. It is true, the United States have employ, except in the winter, for their citizens in agriculture—the most respectable employment under heaven: But it is now to be remembered, that since the old Confederation there is a great emigration of foreign artisans hither, some of whom are left here by the armies of the last war, and others, who have more lately sought the new world, from hopes of mending their condition—these will not change their employments. Besides this, the very face of our country leads to manufactures. Our numerous falls of water, and places for mills, where paper, snuff, gun-powder, iron works, and numerous other articles are prepared, these will save us immense sums of money, that otherwise would go to Europe.—The question is, have these been encouraged? Has Congress been able, by national laws, to prevent the importation of such foreign commodities as are made from such raw materials as we ourselves raise. It is alleged, that the citizens of the United States have contracted debts within the last three years, with the subjects of Great-Britain, for the amount of near six million dollars, and that consequently our lands are mortgaged for that sum. So Corsica was once mortgaged to the Genoese merchants, for articles which her inhabitants did not want, or which they could have made themselves, and she was afterwards
sold to a foreign power. If we wish to encourage our own commerce, to raise the value of our own lands, we must give Congress the powers in question.
The Hon. Gentleman from Norton last speaking, says, that if Congress have the power of laying and collecting taxes, they will use the power of the sword. I hold the reverse to be true. The doctrine of requisitions or of demands upon a whole State, implies such a power: For surely a whole State, a whole community, can be compelled only by an army; but taxes upon an individual implies only the use of a collector of taxes. That Congress, however, will not apply to the power of direct taxation, unless in cases of emergency, is plain; because, as thirty thousand inhabitants will elect a representative, eight tenths of which electors perhaps are yeomen, and holders of farms, it will be their own faults if they are not represented by such men as will never permit the land to be injured by unnecessary taxes.
(To be continued.)
L O N D O N.
Extract of a letter from Paris, October 2.
All the letters from Germany agree in saying, that the Emperor has put 150,000 armed men into motion at once, not only to assist Russia in war against the Turks, but also to prepare a defence against those powers of Europe which might molest his own states; It is added, there is the most perfect harmony existing between the two Imperial courts and France, and it is presumed that there are secret arrangements already made, in case the Turks should push the war as far as they may do.—
The improvement of agriculture, so essential to the well-being and strength of a state, is an object that engrosses much of the attention of the first characters in this country, and considerable advantages daily result from it. They are equally solicitous respecting the introducing and encouraging of manufactures, many of which have attained a great degree of perfection, and are in a flourishing state. A scheme is now on foot for establishing manufactures of muslin and dimity at Paris, and in other districts of the kingdom. The rector of St. Sulpice has opened a work-house, where all the poor that apply are employed in spinning, &c. M. Barneville's ingenious cotton-machines are to be introduced, by which thread may be spun so amazingly fine as to draw two hundred thousand ells from a pound weight of cotton—their mechanism is very curious, and the French flatter themselves, that their muslins will acquire a superiority over those of India. A subscription is already opened for small shares of 300 livres (£12 10s) and several patriotic spirits have contributed large sums for the support of an institution, which, it is expected, besides increasing the wealth of the kingdom, will considerably diminish the number of beggars and poor wretches which swarm in this populous nation.
[A noble example this for Americans to imitate.]
Among the number of avocations in Amsterdam by which people live, the drying of fage is not one of the most inconsiderable. The last ships to India from Holland, took a large quantity of this commercial article, for every pound of which, four pounds of India tea given in exchange. The late Mr. Shenstone preferred fage to any sort of tea whatever—he had twelve species of it in his gardens—and near one of its beds was the following motto— Cur moriatur homo, cui salvia cernit in horto?
H A L I F A X, January 3.
On Saturday evening last, a very melancholy accident happened in this harbour. The brig Loyal Briton, Capt. Joseph Salter, arrived from Dominica, after a very tedious passage of upwards of 40 days; he with his vessel's company, had for some days been at short allowance. The fatigues and difficulties they had undergone in the voyage, caused an unusual joy at finding themselves safe in the harbour. Capt. Salter seized the mate by the hand, congratulated him that all their troubles were now at an end—and then going suddenly forward, to give some directions about coming to an anchor, his foot tripped in the buoy rope, and he fell instantly overboard; and though every exertion was made to save him, he was unfortunately drowned. Perhaps few instances can be recollected more truly melancholy.—After a series of great hardships, he had unexpectedly reached the port—the hope in a few
moments of receiving the embraces of his friends, had banished all the difficulties of the voyage.—In an instant the scene changes, and puts an end to every earthly expectation.—As a son and a brother, his death will be long lamented; whilst his numerous acquaintance here will join his relation, in the tear of sympathy.
N E W - H A V E N, Feb. 14.
On Monday last at 5 o'clock, P. M. arrived in this city authentic intelligence of the ratification of the Constitution by the Convention of Massachusetts.—On this pleasing and important event the bells were rung, and a salute of 13 rounds was fired, followed by three huzzas from a large concourse of people who had assembled on the occasion, and testified their hearty approbation of the conduct of their good old friend and neighbour, who is so nearly allied to Connecticut in good sense and sound republican principles.—It was a pleasing circumstance, that the Hon. RUFUS KING, Esq. arrived here on his way from Boston to New-York, while the salute was firing, and was a witness to the joy excited among us, by the conduct of his native State.
H A R T F O R D, Jan. 11.
SOME idea, says a correspondent may be formed whether the proposed Constitution annihilates the sovereignty or respectability of the several States, from the following list of the Convention of this State, in it, for ratifying the new Constitution, were two Governors, one Lieutenant-Governour, six Assistants, four of the Hon. Judges of the Superior Court, two Ministers of the Gospel, eight Generals, eighteen Colonels, seven Majors, thirteen Captains, the rest to the number of sixty-seven, were composed of the Judges of the County Courts, Justices of the Peace, and gentlemen in private characters.—Against ratifying the Constitution were one Assistant, two Generals, four Colonels, one Major, three Captains, one Lieutenant, and the rest to the number of 29, were composed of Judges of the County Courts, Justices of the Peace, and private characters as aforesaid.
SEVENTH PILLAR raised (if true.)
N E W P O R T, February 14.
By a vessel arrived here last Tuesday, in five days from North-Carolina, we have a confirmation of the pleasing intelligence of that State's ADOPTING the NEW CONSTITUTION, by a very large majority. [We wait with impatience for an official confirmation of this happy event]
SEVEN STATES have ratified the NEW CONSTITUTION.—New-Hampshire Convention are now in session; South-Carolina meets the third of March; from authentic intelligence we are informed that both these States will adopt it by large majorities.—Maryland meets the last of April.—Virginia in June.—New-York Assembly have recommended a Convention.—From this state of the progress of the new Constitution, found policy dictates to the leading members of our administration to recommend the appointment of a Convention as speedily as possible, and to exert their influence in the adoption of it.—Great good may they expect from this change of measures, for their systems are too much deranged to encourage perseverance, and their powers are too languid to be rendered efficient—this step of repentance will be a mantle to cover in oblivion many secret crimes, and a virtue which will obliterate many foul stains. Various are the opinions what will be the policy of our leading characters in government.—Whatever it may be, this observation will ever be indisputable, that a perseverance in unfederalism will bring on this State the merited punishment of national degeneracy, and establish as a monumental example of the truth of that adage, "Those whom God wills for destruction he first makes mad."
B O S T O N, February 20.
A gentleman from New-York assures us, that notwithstanding reports to the contrary, thirty-nine fortieths of the people of that city are in favour of the adoption of the federal Constitution: The opposers consisting only of a small group of salary-men.
All the States, except Rhode-Island, have called Conventions—and as the Assembly of that State is to meet next week, it is expected that she will not remain an exception to the measure—Should it be the case, it will be a very pleasurable event—for, saith the scripture, there is more joy over one sinner that repenteth, than, &c.
Lord Dunmore, says, T. Allen's
Marine-List, has ordered, that no more American vessels shall load with salt at Turk's Island.
By a late act of the legislature of Virginia, the following duties are to take place in that state the 1st of March, 1788.
American articles.
New-England Rum 1/ per gal. Loaf and lump Sugar 3d. pr lb. Dressed Leather 6d. lb. Tanned ditto 4d. lb. Chees 2d. lb. Butter 4d. lb. Candles 4d. lb. Soap 4d. lb. Cordage 4s. cwt. Bar-Iron 4s. cwt. Hollow Ware 4s. cwt. Nail Rods 6s. cwt. Axes 8s. per doz. Hoes 6s. doz. Mens and Womens Shoes 1/ per pair. Salt Beef 20s. cwt. Pork 20s. cwt.
Foreign articles.
Brandy and other distilled Spirits 1/ per gal. Madeira Wine 1/5 gal. Other Wines 1/ gal. Porter 9d. gal. Pepper 6d. lb. Other spices 4d. Bohea Tea 1/ Other Teas 2/.
These duties are so high as to amount almost to a prohibition.
An unhappy and perhaps unparalled accident happened lately at Paris: A child of five years of age hanged his brother, who was not quite two years old.—On his being reprimanded, he answered coolly, "I did not hurt him; my brother did not cry; I only did what I saw Punch do two or three times." He had been often to see a puppet-show.
A short time since, a negro belonging to a Kingston planter, jumped from a wharf into the ocean to bathe. In a few moments a shark appeared. The negro dived, but afterwards rose almost close to him, then instantly dived again after the monster had bit at him nearly on the water's surface. Some people in a vessel were spectators of the circumstance. The shark struck his tail with great force against the vessel, when he plunged after the negro. The latter, by amazing exertions, however, at length reached the shore unhurt. When the negro rose to the water's surface the shark was so near him, that his head was plainly seen by the people in the vessel; therefore the poor fellow's escape was deemed miraculous. Swimmers often perish by the sharks, sometimes losing an arm or leg, and sometimes being bit quite asunder, and serving only as a couple of morsels for the ravenous creature.—The shark has 144 teeth, sharp and terrible notched like a saw on the edges, disposed in six rows, and placed in various directions. These teeth, when he sleeps, lie flat in his mouth; but when he seizes his prey, he has the power of erecting them, by a set of muscles which join them to the jaw.
As infamous an action has been perpetrated within a few days past as ever blotted the annals of human nature. The captain of a vessel, in the employ of a foreigner, engaged a number of negroes, to go down to one of the islands in the vicinity of this town, to work: having got them on board his boat, he proceeded to the vessel and confined them; this being done, he immediately set sail; and having arrived off Salem, he sent on shore and inveigled a number more of unfortunate blacks on board. Having thus far succeeded in his detestable purpose, he pursued his voyage, either to some of the southern states, or to the West-Indies, where, in all probability, he will dispose of them to linger out a wretched existence in the worst of slavery. Blush humanity! and recoil civilization, at the conduct of men who profess to be guided by thy principles.
Some of the poor blacks, who were trepanned, as abovementioned, were honest and industrious, and had families, with a tender offspring, who are now lamenting their misfortunes in being deprived of their support in life.
Justice, aye by thy arm so long with-held? Frail mortal, ask not!
The ways of heaven are dark and intricate, Sooner or late will justice seize the wretch, And fill his breast with dread, remorse and sorrow.
DIED] Lately, PAUL FISHER, Esq. of Clifton, near Bristol, in England, who has left, to the society for propagating the gospel 2000l.; 500l. of it to propagating the gospel in America; 500l. for encouraging the potent Working-Schools in Ireland; and the remaining 1000l. for the use of the first bishop that shall be appointed in America, with the interest of the same, provided a fee be constituted in twenty-five years.
On the approaching Decision of an IMPORTANT QUESTION.
THE all important moment is at hand, When we the fate of millions must decide; Freedom & peace will soon pervade the land, Or Anarchy stretch her horrid pinions wide.

L O N D O N, Nov. 6. The following interesting fact we have from a correspondent, whose information may be relied upon: The French government, finding the immense torrent of British goods which was poured in upon them, previous to the alarm of war, and the great discontent which this circumstance has occasioned amongst the manufacturing part of the nation, has taken the resolution to lay a heavy inland duty of near thirty per cent. in the same manner as the traites gabelles are laid, viz. from county to county. This is not provided against in the commercial treaty; and if it takes place, which our correspondent asserts must be the case in order to prevent a rebellion, the commercial treaty will in fact be totally annihilated.
Nov. 10. The loss sustained by the Russian squadron in the Black sea is now confirmed, and turns out to be infinitely more calamitous than was at first imagined. Besides the one ship of the line, of which we have had accounts as falling into the hands of the Turks, six other men of war, large, new and well equipped, perished in the storm. This severe blow has completely disabled the Russians, for some time, from acting against the Ottoman Porte.
B A L T I M O R E, February 5.  Extract of a letter from a very respectable merchant at Amsterdam, to his correspondent near Baltimore, received per the Antelope, Captain Atkinson.
Amsterdam, 25th October, 1787. "We can assure you that though our situation has been critical for a few days, it has been much exaggerated by public reports; and though trade has been barred, it was never entirely stopped."
"We must, by this opportunity, advertise you that what the English news papers say of our situation is as much beyond the truth as what they quote of the Americans. Their good will to both is much the same.—However this be, we can now give you positive assurances that all danger is over, and that as peace and good order will be gradually restored, so trade will soon flow again thro' its natural channels."
B O S T O N, February 25. The Purport of a Letter received by the last Saturday's Mail, from Providence State of Rhode-Island, is—That a Protest was signing, to be presented to the Assembly of that State, which are to meet at Providence this Week, impeaching the several States who have adopted the New Constitution, with treason.
Of the Conventions which have ratified the federal constitution, that of Massachusetts contained 355 members, 168 nays.
  Connecticut — 168 — 40 —   New Jersey — 39 —   Pennsylvania — 69 — 23 —   Delaware — 22 —   Georgia — 33 —   688 231 
From hence it appears, that nearly two thirds of six states, which contains 1,187,000 taxable and representable inhabitants, (as appears from the statement of the number of inhabitants in our last) have adopted the new constitution.
S A L E M, February 19. The Legislature of the state of North-Carolina, at their late session, have resolved unanimously,—“That the citizens of that state and the United States have a full and indisputable claim to the navigation of the river Mississippi, as well by the clear and express stipulations of treaties, as by the great law of nature.” They also resolved, at the same time, “That the delegates of that state be instructed to move in Congress for a full and explicit declaration, that the right which the United States, and each of them have to the navigation of the Mississippi, is absolute and unalienable; in order that the apprehensions and fears of their fellow citizens, on that subject, might be entirely removed.”
P O R T S M O U T H, Feb. 27. List of the members of the honorable Convention, of this state, and of the towns they represent.
His Excellency JOHN SULLIVAN , Esquire, President. The Hon. JOHN CALFE , Esq. Secretary. Col. John Langdon } Portsmouth, John Pickering, Esq. } Col. Pierce Long, } Col. Runnels, } Londonderry. Archibald M'Murphy, } Mr. Joseph Blanchard, } Chester. Benjamin Adams Esq. } Newington.
Doct. Ichabod Weeks, Greenland. Lieut. Nathan Goss, Rye. Henry Prescott, Esq. New Castle. Rev. Mr. Thirlton, North-Hampton. Christopher Toppan, Esq. Hampton. Rev. Doct. Langdon, Hampton Falls & Seabrook. Mr. Jonathan Wiggin, Stratham. Mr. Jeremiah Fogg, Kensington. Mr. Benjamin Clough, South-Hampton & East-Kingstown.
Hon. Josiah Bartlett, Esq. Kingstown. Doct. Thomas Stow Ranny, Brentwood. Mr. Nathaniel Ladd, Epping. Col. Nathaniel Rogers, Newmarket. Gen. Thomas Bartlett. Nottingham. Doct. Chadwick, Deerfield. James Gray, Esq. Northwood & Epsom & Allenstown. Mr. Benjamin Sias, Chichester & Pittsfield. Col. Jeremiah Clough, Canterbury & Northfield. Mr. Jonathan Smith, Louisa. Capt. Benjamin Emery, Concord. Samuel Daniels, Esq. Pembroke. Mr. Stephen Fife, Candia. Mr. Thomas Chase, Raymond & Poplin. Mr. Nehemiah Sleeper, Hawke & Sandown.
John Calfe, Esq. Hampstead. Col. Benjamin Stone, Atkinson & Plaistow. Lieut. Thomas Dow, Salem. Capt. Robert Steward, Newtown. James Bettan, Esq. Wynham. Rev. Amos Moody, Pelham. Doct. Ezra Green, Dover. John Sullivan, Esq. Durham. Doct. Moses Carr, Somersworth. Mr. Barnabas Palmer, Rochester. Samuel Hale, Esq. Barrington. General Badger, Gilmanstown. Capt. Reuben Hill, Lee. Rev. William Hooper, Madbury. Col. Ebenezer Smith, Merrimack & North-Hampton.
Daniel Beede, Esq. Sandwich & Tamworth. Mr. Nathaniel Shannon, Moultonborough. (Tuftonborough, Wolfborough, and Ossipee.) Mr. Jonathan Cheyney, Barnstead, New Durham & New Durham Gore. Mr. Nicholas Austin, Wakefield Mid- dletown & Effingham. David Page, Esq. Corners, Eaton, Bar- ton and Locations. Mr. Ebenezer Cummings, Nottingham.
Capt. Daniel Dixby, Littlefield & Derry- field. Doct. William Hunt, Dunstable. T. Taylor, Esq. Merrimack. Mr. Stephen Dole, Bedford. Mr. William Page, Goffstown. Lieut. Daniel Hindricks, H- llis. Joshua Atherton, Amherst. Mr. Amos Dakin, Raby and Mason. Capt. Charles Barrett, New Ipswich. Mr. William Abbott, Wilton. Mr. Benjamin Jones, Lyndeborough. Mr. John Cragin, Temple and Peterboro' (Slip.)
Major N. Dix, Peterboro' & Societyland. Mr. Evan Dow, Hancock, Antrim & (Deering.) Lieut. Robert B. Wilkins, Henniker & (Hillsborough.) John Cochran, Esq. New Boston. Mr. Jonathan Dow, Weare. Mr. Joshua Morse, Hopkinton. Capt. Jacob Green, Dunbarton & Bow. Col. Ebenezer Webster, Salisbury. Capt. Joseph Gerrish, Boscawen. Nathaniel Bean, Esq. Fishersfield, Sutton & Warner.
Benjamin West, Esq. Charlestown. Capt. Oliver Shepherd, Alstead. Rev. Aaron Hall, Keene. Major Elisha Whitcomb. Swanzey. Mr. Jonathan Gaskill, Richmond. Mr. Abiel Parker, Jaffrey. Mr. Moses Chamberlin, Winchester. Mr. Archelaus Temple, Westminster. Mr. Solomon Harvey, Chesterfield. Capt. O. Thomas, Rindge. Gen. Benjamin Bellows, Walpole. Mr. Aaron Allen, Claremont. Mr. Mathias Stone, Jonathan Chase, Esq. Cornish & Grantham. Daniel Grout, Esq. Acworth, Lemster, & Marlow.
Col. Jonathan Smith, Surry & Gilsum. Thomas Penniman, Esq. Stoddard & Washington.
Samuel Griffin, Esq. Dublin & Packer- field. Mr. Jediah Tainter, Marlborough. Mr. Caleb Winch, Fitzwilliam. Major Joseph Kimball, Plainfield. Mr. Uriah Evans, Hinsdale. Hon. Samuel Livermore, Holderness. (Compton & Thornton.) Joffe Johnson, Esq. Enfield Cardigan, &c. Mr. Thomas Crawford, New Chester, &c. Jonathan Freeman, Esq. Hanover. Capt. David Houge, Lebanon. Col. William Simpson, Lyne & Orford. Col. Joseph Hutchins, Haverhill &c.
Major Samuel Young, Bath, Lyman, &c. Capt. John Weeks, Lancaster, Northum- berland, &c. &c.
Last Friday the question was put for adjourning the Convention, when after considerable opposition from Mr. Atherton, Dea. Stone, Rev. Mr. Hooper and Mr. Parker, it passed in the affirmative.
For adjourning, - - 56 Against adjourning, - - 51 The convention is to meet at Concord the third Wednesday in June next.
The reason which induced many of the members to adjourn, was, their being tied up to instructions, to vote against the constitution of which they could not divest themselves without incurring the displeasure of their constituents.
Died since our last, the Honorable GEORGE ATKINSON, Esq. aged 54 years; Mrs. Margaret Wentworth aged 78, relict of the late Honorable Hunking Wentworth, Esq; also Mr. George Watters aged 48 years.
N A V A L - O F F I C E. PORT OF PISCATAQUA, Feb. 27, 1788.  C L E A R E D, For. Brig P. Wentworth, Wardrobe, W. Indies. Sloop Catharine, Gerrish, Ditto.
  WEEKLY ALMANACK   For PORTSMOUTH.—Lat. 43d. 5 N.   Feb. 11. O. S. Feb. 22. N. S. Calendar.   27 6 31 6   28 6 29 6   29 6 28 6   Mar. 1 6 27 6   2 6 26 6   3 6 24 6   4 6 23 6   5 6 21 6   6 6 20 6   7 6 18 6   8 6 17 6   9 6 15 6   10 6 14 6   11 6 12 6   12 6 11 6   13 6 9 6   14 6 8 6   15 6 6 6   16 6 5 6   17 6 3 6   18 6 2 6   19 6 1 6   20 6 31 6   21 6 29 6   22 6 28 6   23 6 26 6   24 6 25 6   25 6 23 6   26 6 22 6   27 6 20 6   28 6 19 6   29 6 17 6   30 6 16 6   31 6 14 6   Apr. 1 6 13 6   2 6 11 6   3 6 10 6   4 6 8 6   5 6 7 6   6 6 5 6   7 6 4 6   8 6 2 6   9 6 1 6   10 6 31 6   11 6 29 6   12 6 28 6   13 6 26 6   14 6 25 6   15 6 23 6   16 6 22 6   17 6 20 6   18 6 19 6   19 6 17 6   20 6 16 6   21 6 14 6   22 6 13 6   23 6 11 6   24 6 10 6   25 6 8 6   26 6 7 6   27 6 5 6   28 6 4 6   29 6 2 6   30 6 1 6   31 6 31 6   May 1 6 29 6   2 6 28 6   3 6 26 6   4 6 25 6   5 6 23 6   6 6 22 6   7 6 20 6   8 6 19 6   9 6 17 6   10 6 16 6   11 6 14 6   12 6 13 6   13 6 11 6   14 6 10 6   15 6 8 6   16 6 7 6   17 6 5 6   18 6 4 6   19 6 2 6   20 6 1 6   21 6 31 6   22 6 29 6   23 6 28 6   24 6 26 6   25 6 25 6   26 6 23 6   27 6 22 6   28 6 20 6   29 6 19 6   30 6 17 6   31 6 16 6   June 1 6 14 6   2 6 13 6   3 6 11 6   4 6 10 6   5 6 8 6   6 6 7 6   7 6 5 6   8 6 4 6   9 6 2 6   10 6 1 6   11 6 31 6   12 6 29 6   13 6 28 6   14 6 26 6   15 6 25 6   16 6 23 6   17 6 22 6   18 6 20 6   19 6 19 6   20 6 17 6   21 6 16 6   22 6 14 6   23 6 13 6   24 6 11 6   25 6 10 6   26 6 8 6   27 6 7 6   28 6 5 6   29 6 4 6   30 6 2 6   July 1 6 1 6   2 6 31 6   3 6 29 6   4 6 28 6   5 6 26 6   6 6 25 6   7 6 23 6   8 6 22 6   9 6 20 6   10 6 19 6   11 6 17 6   12 6 16 6   13 6 14 6   14 6 13 6   15 6 11 6   16 6 10 6   17 6 8 6   18 6 7 6   19 6 5 6   20 6 4 6   21 6 2 6   22 6 1 6   23 6 31 6   24 6 29 6   25 6 28 6   26 6 26 6   27 6 25 6   28 6 23 6   29 6 22 6   30 6 20 6   31 6 19 6   Aug. 1 6 17 6   2 6 16 6   3 6 14 6   4 6 13 6   5 6 11 6   6 6 10 6   7 6 8 6   8 6 7 6   9 6 5 6   10 6 4 6   11 6 2 6   12 6 1 6   13 6 31 6   14 6 29 6   15 6 28 6   16 6 26 6   17 6 25 6   18 6 23 6   19 6 22 6   20 6 20 6   21 6 19 6   22 6 17 6   23 6 16 6   24 6 14 6   25 6 13 6   26 6 11 6   27 6 10 6   28 6 8 6   29 6 7 6   30 6 5 6   31 6 4 6   Sept. 1 6 2 6   2 6 1 6   3 6 31 6   4 6 29 6   5 6 28 6   6 6 26 6   7 6 25 6   8 6 23 6   9 6 22 6   10 6 20 6   11 6 19 6   12 6 17 6   13 6 16 6   14 6 14 6   15 6 13 6   16 6 11 6   17 6 10 6   18 6 8 6   19 6 7 6   20 6 5 6   21 6 4 6   22 6 2 6   23

Parnassian Spring.
A MODEST WISH.
ONE —female companion to soften my cares,  Two —thousand a year to support my affairs;  Three —dogs and a gun when to sport I incline,  Four —horses and chaise to indulge me and mine;  Five —jolly companions with whom to make merry,  Six —dishes each day, with six glasses of Sherry;  Seven —beds in my house, for my friends at their leisure  Eight —somethings or other, to add to their pleasure;  Nine —pounds in my pocket, when cash I require,  Ten —favours are all that on earth I desire, And a passport to Heav'n, when from earth I retire.
Translation of a LATIN EPIGRAM.
I nto the sea all cuckolds should be cast, Quoth honest Silvius to his wond'ring wife: Sweet husband, ere the dreadfullaw be past Pray learn to swim, cries she, & save your life.
THE ONE THING NEEDFUL.
L et but my Coffers overflow, I ask no more of heav'n— A Friend I have where'er I go— A blessing seldom giv'n. When I of Money am possess'd, The world to faults are blind— By ev'ry man I am caref'd— No foes on earth I find.
State of New-Hampshire.
N OTICE is hereby given to the non-resident proprietors and owners of land in the township of Acworth, who have not paid their taxes for the year 1785, that unless they pay the same to me the subscriber, or before Monday the 10th day of March next, so much of their land as will pay the same, together with incidental charges, will be sold at public vendue, at my dwelling house in said town at ten o'clock, A. M. unless prevented by previous payment.
   No. R. Ac. s. d. q.     David Mcgregore 5 7 83 1 3   Samuel Cummings 2 8 60 0 11   James Blanchard 5 9 100 1 6   Samuel Wentworth 16 10 100 1 6   Peter Levius 11 12 62 0 11   Ditto 12 12 72 1 2    LASELL SILSBY, Constable. Acworth, Jan. 14, 1788.
TO BE SOLD, The Excellent and fast Sailing  SLOOP FRIENDSHIP, Forty two tons burthen, now lying at Col. Ham's wharf, in Portsmouth, for which West India Goods will be received in payment,—Apply to W. Brooks or G. Odiorne, of Exeter.
To be LET,
And entered upon the first of April next, An excellent FARM, in Dover, bordering on Cochecho river, pleasantly situated, 10 miles from Portsmouth, containing about 200 Acres, with good Orchards, Mowing, Pasturing, and Tillage Ground; lately improved by Capt. Jonathan Perkins, and known by the name of DAME'S FARM. For Terms, apply to Jacob Sheafe, jun. Portsmouth, January 29, 1788.
BLANKS of all sorts for sale at this Office, at the lowest Boston prices.
State of New-Hampshire.
N OTICE is hereby given to the non-resident proprietors or owners of land in Canaan, who are delinquent in paying their taxes for the year 1781, that unless they pay the same to me the subscriber, on or before Thursday the 20th day of March next, at ten of the clock in the forenoon, so much of their land as will pay said taxes with incidental charges, will be sold on said day at the dwelling house of Robert Barber, in said town, at public vendue, unless prevented by previous payment.
   Certificate. New Emillion. Certificate.   1st 100 2d 1st 2d 3d 1st 2d 3d     Thomas Gustin, 1st right 3 5 0 0 0 0 2 7 0   Ebenezer Harris 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 1 2   Amos Wallworth 0 0 2 8 0 0 0 2 0   Joseph Eames 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 1 2   Allen Whitman, half 1 9 0 0 0 1 3 0 0   Thomas Wells 0 0 2 8 1 6 2 1 2   Thomas Gustin, 2d right 3 5 0 0 0 2 7 0 0   Jedediah Lathrop 0 0 0 9 0 7 0 0 1   Abner Chamberlin 3 5 0 0 2 7 0 5 0   William Fox, jr. 3 5 0 1 6 2 7 1 2   Stephen Killogg 1 1 0 0 8 0 5 0 0   John Trible 0 0 2 8 0 0 2 0 0   Samuel Dodge 3 5 0 0 2 7 0 5 0   Samuel Meacham 3 5 0 1 6 2 7 1 2   Isaiah Rathburne 0 0 2 8 0 0 2 0 0   William Chamberlain 0 0 0 1 6 0 0 1 2   Wm. Chamberlain, jr. 3 5 0 0 2 7 0 5 0   Jonathan Bebee 0 0 2 8 1 6 2 1 2   Thomas W. Waldron 3 5 2 8 1 6 2 7 2   Capt. W. Wentworth 3 5 2 8 1 6 2 7 2   John Newman, Esq. 0 0 2 8 0 0 2 0 0   Gov. B. Wentworth, 2r. 6 10 5 4 1 6 5 2 4 1   E. Eames, mill lot 0 0 1 6 0 0 1 2 0   Thomas Miner 0 0 2 8 0 0 2 0 0  
Canaan, February 13, 1788.
JOSEPH FLINT, Constable.
TO BE SOLD By Joshua Wentworth, AT HIS STORE,
NEAR HIS DWELLING-HOUSE, RUSSIA-Duck, new Cordage of all sizes from two-yarn spun- yarn to four-inch Rope. Hawfers from three and an halt to five inch, Bar- Iron, Ship-Bread, Connecticut Pork, common and superfine Flour.— Cash, Scale or Cod Fish received in payment for either of the Articles. Portsmouth, February 13, 1788.
State of New-Hampshire.
N OTICE is hereby given to the non-resident owners of land in the following towns, viz. Chesterfield for 1777, 1781 and 1783. Rumney for 1783, 1784 and 1785, Exeter for 1783, 1784, 1785 and 1786, New-Castle for 1783 and 1784, Moultonborough for 1784 and 1785, Unity for 1781, 1782, 1783 & 1785, Amherst for 1782 and 1785, Camp-ton for 1784, 1786 and 1787, Lyme for 1785, 1786 and 1787, Wendell for 1785, Hancock for 1784. Cornish and Marlborough for 1786, Northwood, Epping, Society and Lyman for 1786 and 1787, Portsmouth, Wolfborough, Ossipe, Sandwich, Gilmantown, Dearing, Andover, Allenstown, Cambells Gore, Cardigan, New-Bradford, Wentworth, Stoddard, New-Ipswich, Lempster, Packerfield, Acworth, Washington, Fishersfield, New-Boston, Tamworth, Francestown, Dublin and Rindge for 1787, that their lands in said towns are taxed for the years aforesaid, and if they are not paid within eight weeks from the first publication of this advertisement, to the collectors, or the subscriber, they will be advertised for sale. THO'S ODIORNE, Receiver of non residents taxes. Exeter, Jan. 21, 1788.
State of New-Hampshire.
N OTICE is hereby given to the non-resident Proprietors and owners of land in the town of Fitzwilliam, that there is a tax on each lot of land in said town of six shillings and six pence two farthings, and the same is committed to me to collect. DANIEL MELLENS, Collector. Fitzwilliam, Jan. 1st.
All persons indebted to
the subscriber, by Mortgages, Bonds, Notes, Book Debts, or otherwise, are requested to discharge the same, or endeavour to promote a discount with ANY person who may have any just demands on him of any name, nature or kind, as he earnestly wishes and determines to settle and close every account in the course of the present year, if possible, with every person.
He has many valuable lots of land of 75, 85, 100, 150, 200 and 300 acres in each, in well settled towns in the centre of this State, which he will dispose of on a generous credit, and easy terms of payment, for which he will receive any of the produce of the country, Continental or any States' certificates or securities at their current discount.—He will also exchange fifteen lots under improvement in well settled towns, for others nearer to his inspection, upon equitable proposals.—He will give 100 acres to five men each, who will first apply, and 50 acres each to the next ten good men who will engage as settlers in a township adjoining north of Rumney and west of Thornton, none need apply but such as can be recommended for their industry and temperance.
John Wendell.
Portsmouth, February 19.
State of New-Hampshire.
N OTICE is hereby given to the non-resident proprietors and owners of land in Acworth, who are delinquent in paying their taxes for the year 1784, that unless they pay the same to me the subscriber, on or before Thursday, the 27th day of March next, so much of their land as will pay the same, together with incidental charges will be sold at public vendue at the dwelling house of Henry Silsby, Esq. in said town, 10 o'clock, A.M. unless prevented by previous payment.
   No. R. Q'ty. s. d. q.     Samuel Fitch 17 1 100 1 7   Ditto 18 1 100 1 7   Ditto 17 2 100 1 7   Ditto 18 2 100 1 7    JOHN DUNCAN, Constable. Acworth, February 13, 1788.
P UBLICK notice is hereby given, that the EXCISE on spirituous liquors and other Excised articles, from the first of October, 1787, to the first of October, 1788, agreeable to an act of this State, passed in September last, will be sold for the county of Strafford on Thursday the 6th day of March next, at public vendue, at the house of Mr. Jona. Gage, innholder in Dover, at two o'clock in the afternoon.—Conditions of sale may be known at time and place aforesaid.
Ebenezer Thompson, } Joshua Wingate, } Com'tee. John Rollins, } Dover, February 12, 1788.
State of New-Hampshire.
To the Honorable NATHANIEL PEABODY, Esq. one of the Justices assigned to keep the Peace throughout the State aforesaid.
T HE subscribers being owners of more than one sixteenth part of the township of Franconia, in the county of Grafton, and State of New Hampshire, hereby request your honor to call a meeting of the proprietors of said township, to be held at the house of Capt. Benjamin French, at Dunstable, in the county of Hillsborough in said State, on the 25th day of March next, at one o'clock in the afternoon, then and there to act on the following articles & matters hereafter mentioned.
 1st, To choose a Moderator for said meeting.  2d, To choose a Proprietors Clerk.  3d, To choose Assessors, a Collector, a Treasurer and other necessary officers for conducting business respecting said township, as the Proprietors may adjudge expedient.  4th, To agree on some equitable and expeditious method for paying and discharging the arrears of publick taxes and requisitions due from said township.  5th, To agree on, and vote for such sum or sums of money to be raised on the right or share of each original Grantee, as will pay their respective proportion of the taxes and requisitions aforesaid, and for expenditures and services in bringing forward the settlement of said township, and such other sums as may be thought necessary to promote the future settlement of said township.  6th, To receive, examine and allow accounts brought against said Proprietors.  7th, To choose a Committee to conduct the prudential affairs of said Proprietors, and to transact all such matters as shall then be committed to their charge.  8th, To agree on some method to call the Proprietors meetings in future, and transact any other matters that may be thought proper and expedient, for the benefit of said Propriety. 
JOHN NIXON, GILES ALEXANDER, JONAS MINOT, THOMAS BENTE. February 2, 1788.
State of New Hampshire, County of Rockingham.
A PPPLICATION having been made to me the undersigned, one of the Justices assigned to keep the peace in and throughout the said State, as aforesaid and set forth, therefore I do hereby notify and warn all the Proprietors of the said township of Franconia to meet at the time, place and for the purposes mentioned and set forth in and by the said application.
Given under my hand at Portsmouth, in said County of Rockingham, the 4th day of February, 1788. NATH'L PEABODY.
SUBSCRIPTIONS for this Paper, at Two Shillings and Three Pence per quarter, exclusive of postage, are taken in by the Publisher, at his Printing-Office in Market-Street, Portsmouth; where Advertisements are received, the favours of Correspondents carefully attended to, and Printing performed reasonably.