The New Hampshire gazette (Portsmouth [N.H.]), 1798-02-21 00:00:00

THE New Hampshire Gazette.
— OUR COUNTRY'S GOOD OUR CONSTANT AIM —
PORTSMOUTH: (NEW-HAMPSHIRE)—PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY MORNING BY JOHN MELCHER, PRINTER TO THE STATE, AT HIS OFFICE CORNER OF MARKET STREET, WHERE SUBSCRIPTIONS FOR THIS PAPER, ADVERTISEMENTS, AND ARTICLES OF INTELLIGENCE ARE THANKFULLY RECEIVED.
Vol. XLII.—Numb. 2152.]
WEDNESDAY, February 21, 1798.
[9s. pr. Annum.]
Mr. LYON's Narrative.
The following NARRATIVE was given by Mr. Lyon in the course of his defence before the Committee of Privileges, on Thursday, February 1st, 1798.
Gentlemen of the Committee,
AFTER having heard so much about Wooden Sword , an expression, the repetition and application of which, in an indignant manner, has caused you this present trouble, I hope you'll indulge me with a patient hearing to a short Narrative of the circumstance, which awakens my feelings, and utterly disabuses me from bearing such reflections. After living ten years in Connecticut, from my 15th to 25th year I removed to a new settlement in Vermont, then called New-Hampshire grants, about 30 miles from Ticonderoga. On the first attempts of the British government to enslave this country, I joined with about twenty other young men to form a minute company and learn military exercise; we made proficiency, and on the first news of actual war we hastened to join Ethan Allen, in taking Ticonderoga, Crown-Point and St. John's. I continued in that service, without any pay or prospect of it, until the Connecticut forces came on to keep the forts when I returned home to take care of my affairs, which had suffered in my absence. In the same summer, 1775, the militia was organized, and I was appointed Adjutant of my regiment.
In 1776, after the retreat from Canada, Colonel Seth Warner being out of employ, applied to the commander in chief in the Northern Department, for some defence for the frontier of the New-Hampshire Grants, which became exposed by the retreat of the army. The Gen. recommended to the committee of the N. Hampshire grants, of which I was a member, to nominate the commission officers for 6 companies and he promised to commission them, and that they should be entitled to continental pay. In one of those companies I received a commission, as a second Lieutenant. I set about enlisting my men, and immediately obtained my quota, and, at my own expence marched them to the rendezvous at Pitsford, about 20 miles south east from Ticonderoga; which by this time had become head-quarters. At the rendezvous I found the Captain and first Lieutenant of my company had raised no men, and that there were but two companies, and a part of another, besides mine, raised, and that Colonel Warner, who was expected to have commanded our six companies, had received a commission and order from Congress for raising a regiment on the continental establishment during the war, and that in his endeavours to raise his regiment, the raising of our companies was wholly impeded. Finding the business falling into supineness, I applied to the General to discharge me and my men in order that I might join Warner's regiment. The General once agreed to discharge me and my men, and ordered me to make up my pay roll for the purpose. But at this juncture application was made to the General by some people who had bought the crops of the whigs, who had removed from Onion River, and he was induced to order our party to march to Jericho and take post at a certain house on the north side of Onion River at least 60 miles in advance of the army towards Canada; from whence the army had retreated, and about the same distance from any body of inhabitants, and the General instead of discharging, ordered me to join one of the other companies.
The idea of the people and of the committee of the New-Hampshire Grants, was, that these six companies, if they had been raised, would have been stationed some where near Middlebury, which is opposite Crown-Point, and about 12 miles east therefrom, and nearly forty miles southward of the places appointed by the General.
The commanding officer wrote to the General representing the situation of the country, and the impossibility of our being of any service at Onion River, as all the well affected people were moved away. This letter was either neglected or answered with a fresh order for marching. The order was obeyed; but the soldiers confi-
dered themselves sacrificed to the interest of those persons who bought the crops for a trifle, and wanted to get our party there to eat them at the public expence. I opposed those murmurs with all the arguments in my power. I used frequently to urge with them, that the absolute government of the army must be with the General; he could not be omniscient and we ought to submit with cheerfulness and hope for the best. In this situation our little garrison, which contained about 60 men, besides invalids were alarmed by the Indians taking some persons from a house about a mile distant. Consternation prevailed; I immediately called for volunteers, and with about 20 men went to the house where the prisoners had been taken; from thence took a circuit in the woods round the garrison, in order to see if there were any parties or appearances of the enemy. Finding none I returned and obtained leave to take about five and twenty of the best men and pursue the enemy towards the lake; where we supposed they had gone. I had proceeded about two miles when two runners from the commanding officer, brought me positive orders to return, with intelligence that a subaltern officer had returned from a scout to the lake Champlain, about twelve miles distance, where he saw five or six hundred Indians.
On my return I found the soldiers more than ever anxious about their situation. They complained bitterly of the orders which bound them to the North side of Onion River, more than twenty poles wide, at that time not fordable, and but a single small canoe to cross with. I endeavoured to encourage them with assurances that we could withstand any number of Indians in our log house and anovel or two which stood near, and after a battle, if we should find the enemy too troublesome we might retreat with honour. I urged them to their duty as soldiers and patriots. Every preparation was made to repel the attack which was expected from the enemy that night. Being fatigued and off duty I had laid down to rest with my fuzee in my arms. About nine o'clock in the evening I heard a violent battle with a cry of "Turn out! Turn out!" I ran out and enquired where the enemy were discovered, and was answered, no where. The soldiers were paraded, and I found by what was said by the Serjeants, that they were about to march off and cross the river. I expostulated with them long and earnestly, pointing out the dishonour which such an action would reflect on their country. I urged them to stay the event of a battle, and I spoke the truth, when I assured them that I preferred death in battle, to the dishonour of quitting our post.
All entreaties were ineffectual they declared they had been abused, there was no chance for their lives there, and they marched off for the South side of the river. A Serjeant returned with some soldiers and called upon the officers to cross the river. As they were going to take the canoe to the other side, they insisted on our going and threatened violence if we refused. The other officers, which were two Captains and one Lieutenant seemed willing to go and I did not think it my duty to resist alone. In the morning the soldiers offered to return to subordination if the commanding officer would lead them to a small block fort at Newhaven about thirty miles to the Southward—the officers held a consultation, in this I refused to do any thing but go back to the station we were ordered to maintain. We were at this place joined by a Lieutenant and a few men who had gone to a mill near Crown Point to get wheat ground, and I was sent expressly, to head quarters, to carry letters and inform the General of what had happened; but some of the wheat speculators had arrived before me, and so exasperated the Gen. that when I arrived he was enraged to the highest pitch, he swore we should all be hanged, and ordered me into arrest. Within a few days the other officers and some of the soldiers were brought into head quarters. We had a trial, by a court martial, appointed by the exasperated General, who now swore we should all be broke. I pro-
ved every thing with respect to myself that is here stated (the persons are yet alive by whom I proved it and are ready to repeat it) notwithstanding which I was included in the general sentence of cashiering; nor did even the Lieutenant who was absent at the mill escape the awful condemnation. The soldiers were sentenced to corporal punishment—but on Gen. Carlton's coming down to attack Ticonderoga they were liberated.
The mortification of being cashiered, and that very undeservedly, without any other aggravation, was I believe quite to the extent of my power to bear; had any indignant ceremony been to be performed, they would not have had my company at it, as the implements of death were in my power.
The Gen. sent for us to his own house and there, in a mild manner, communicated to us the sentence, no one present I believe but his Aid and we took our own time and manner of quitting Ticonderoga. I have always understood he reveried the sentence.
Perhaps my spirit would not have been able to have borne up under this affliction had not all my acquaintance acquitted me of every color of misbehavior; nor did the bitterest enemy ever seriously between he and me, before the present insult, call my courage or my conduct in that instance in question. Twenty one years have elapsed since the unfortunate affair, during which it has slept in oblivion, until party rage and party newspapers tore open the wound in my breast.
To pursue the narrative; Gen. St. Clair who presided at the court martial, which condemned me, in the summer succeeding that misfortune, recommended me to Gen. Schuyler, informing him (as I supposed) of my ill usage and of my subsequent services and obtained for me a commission of Paymaster to a continental regiment commanded by Col. Seth Warner which commission entitled me to the rank of Capt. In this I was again unfortunately led into trouble, as the officers of the regiment had previous to my appointment petitioned Congress for the restoration of the former pay master who had been cashiered and was a son of a Congressman of Connecticut.
Notwithstanding the coldness this created towards me and the consequent bickerings,—no officer ever thought proper to mention to me the unhappy affair of the preceding summer. In this regiment, I served at the capture of Burgoyne, and the succeeding spring, when my family could return to my plantation, from which Burgoyne's invasion had drove them at the solicitation of Governor Chittenden, and many other friends, I resigned, at a time when the officers of the regiment almost all had become reconciled and withed my stay. Immediately on my resignation I was appointed Capt. in the militia, and several civil offices under the authority of the State of Vermont, which had newly formed a constitution and set up government.
In the year 1778, I was appointed a member of the Legislature, in which station I served my country ever since, save two years, until my appointment to Congress. I held a station in the militia, until the command of the regiment I lived in, with a full Colonel's commission, was given to me. I moved to where I now reside, about the close of the war, and I have had no concern with military matters, nor been a candidate for any military appointment since.
Thus circumstanced, gentlemen of the Committee, I must appeal to your own feelings whether it belonged to me to receive with impunity the aggravated insult offered me by that young gentleman Mr. Griswold. The station I now hold points out to you the propriety of giving full credit to the plain story I tell you, especially as it is corroborated by evidence. The proper testimony to support this narrative, I will procure and lay before the public as soon as the situation of the evidence, will admit.
I shall conclude with making some observations on the testimony, all of which corroborates, that I was standing without the bar, conversing with the speaker who sat on an outside chair, the subject I believe it is appa-
rent was Mr. Nicholas' motion. I did not like the opposition given to it by the Connecticut members. I insisted they did not act according to the sense and understanding of the people of that State. This led me to say many other things, tho' my discourse was directed to the speaker, it appears I had the wit and raillery of five or six gentlemen from New-York and Connecticut, to withstand and reply to, it appears that I supported it with good humour.
It appears also, by the testimony, that Mr. Griswold, in Mr. Harper's seat gave me a most cutting insult. The speaker who I was in conversation with, heard it as well as some others: they testify that I did not appear to hear it. Why not hear it as well as they? for no other reason than to keep up the prevailing good humour. But Mr. Griswold not satisfied with the insult already given, says to one of the witnesses "He does not hear me," and removes and intrudes himself to my side, pulls me by the arm to call my attention, and then more particularly repeats the insult; knowing it to be the most provoking abuse that one gentleman could possibly offer another.
Under all these circumstances, I cannot but entertain the fullest assurance that I stand justified for the repulse of that deliberate insult offered by Mr. Griswold, in the view of the committee of the house of Representatives, and of every man of honor or feeling who shall ever hear the story.
From the American Telegraph.
THE AUCTIONEER.
WALK on to the vendue, ladies—walk on to the vendue gentlemen—goods going at half price—goods going low—very low—going—going for nothing—how can you with them cheaper?—Essays, moral, sentimental and laughable, on every subject and on no subject.—Tales, serious and comic, high coloured, low coloured, and no coloured.—Anigrams, Epigrams, and Whipigrams, full of high sense, low sense, and no sense. With a great variety of larger and smaller articles, too tedious to enumerate, which would split the lungs of an Auctioneer to cry, and the ears of a gaping multitude to hear.
Reputation is up, ladies and gentlemen!—will you make us a bid!—Reputation. Ladies, you know what a delicate article it is! how easy it is ruined—will you examine it? Sound! Yes. What an invaluable thing it is! Handle it carefully, for the least crack destroys it forever! touch it softly, for the least stain ruins it! why ladies and gentlemen, do you set no more by reputation? an article of such immense value! I am astonished! why its worth cannot be ascertained—it is beyond price! and yet you see it sold for nothing—going for nothing ladies! bid or it's gone! how many invaluable reputations are sold daily at this price! I am surprised, ladies! you must know the value of this article, and yet suffer it to be sold at such a price! My neighbour Slender knocks off thousands a day at this price. Envy as many more—indeed the fraternity of the hammer are oftentimes puzzled to get rid of them at this price, and people are frequently obliged to sell their own reputations—witness my brother "THE TICKLER," who knocked off his at a blow, when he entered the title of his book in the Clerk's office. Alas! how cheap reputations are sold—I'll sell no more this day. But will adjourn until next week.
ANECDOTES.
From a N. York paper.
PHENOMENA NATURA appeared a few days since in Pearl-street.—It wore a short drab coat, similar to a furtout coat with the skirts cut off; a white satin waistcoat, trim'd with gold cord; buckskin pantaloons tight to the shape; white silk hose with black clocks; clasps in its shoes covering the great toe: its head (if it may be called a head) covered with a hat, or rather a bell turned topsy-turvy; and a que resembling the tail of a learned pig, tho' something shorter. Its side locks, or more properly its whiskers, potamumed to a point at the chin. It had a monstrous muff, some presume the skin of a full grown white bear from Kamptchatka. It
is to be seen at most places of public amusement—chatters like a magpie, is as wise as a goose, and as ugly as an owl.
AN Irishman, travelling in a street that was payed, a dog accosted him with a threatening growl.—The traveller attempted to pull up one of the pavingstones to throw at him, but could not. "Arrah, says he, and what a country is this!—the stones are tied, and the dogs let loose!"
NEW GOODS.
Peter Coffin
Has received by the several arrivals from England, an extensive assortment of
Fall and Winter GOODS,
Which are now selling by Wholesale and Retail, at a moderate advance; Consisting of
SUPERFINE, middling & low pric'd Broad Cloths; fashionable plain, printed and mixed Cassimeres; fringed and spotted Elastic Cloths; Lambkins; fine blue and light color'd Coatings; Plains; Forest Cloths; Devonshire Kerseys; Serges; Baizes; Flannels; Swanskins.
A great assortment of Cassimere, Swandown and mole-skin Waistcoating; plain and satin stripe Quilting ditto; belt will'd and plain Velvets; Thicksets; Corduroys; Cordelures; Jeans; Fustians.
A great variety of Chintzes and Calicoes; Ginghams; elegant chintz and copperplate Furniture; linen, cotton, bandanna and silk Handkerchiefs.
Elegant long and square Norwich Shawls; fashionable silk and muslin Shawls; a variety of chintz & purple do.
Book, jaconet, fringed, check'd, tambor'd and japan Muslins; India and clouded do; book and jaconet Mullin Handkerchiefs, some with color'd borders for turbans; Lawn Handkerchiefs and Aprons; Lawns; Cambricks; Mullines; Dimities; Long Lawns; Gentlemen's Cravats and square Handkerchiefs.
English, French and India Lutestrings; Florence Silks; black, white and color'd India and English Silks; black and color'd Modes; Sarfets; Tiffanies; common and Cypress Gauzes; black and white Italian Crape; black and white Orientals for bonnets.
A variety of Ribbons; black silk Laces and Edgings; Brussels Thread Laces and Edgings; black shade Lace and Veiling; gold and silver Fringes; Chinese for cap trimmings; fancy gown trimmings; satin and lutestring elastic Cestuses, some with and some without arm belts; fashionable Girdles; a few silk Nets for hats, bonnets, caps, or the hair.
Ladies' fashionable Satin Beavers, with fashionable bands; Kid and Morocco Sandals; Slippers and Shoes; Elastic Clogs; Lasting, Satinet, Ruffel and Florentine Shoes and Slippers; white and color'd Kid Gloves; silk Gloves and Muffs; Mens' white silk, common leather & beaver Gloves, some lined with flannel; Mens' Hats.
Necklaces & Eardrops; Spangles; gold and silver Epaulets; gold and silver Cord; silk stay Laces.
A variety of fancy Plumes; Feathers and Flowers.
White Angola, Mock Sable and ting'd Canary Fur trimmings.
A great assortment of Silk, Worsted and Cotton Hosiery for men, women and children; womens' worsted Gloves and Muffs; Mens' worsted Gloves; Pantaloons; knit breeches Patterns.
Irish Linens; Sheetings; Brown Holland; Table Cloths; green Table Coverings; Diapers.
Cloak Camblets; Camblets; Wildbores; Crapes; Glossereis; Missnets; silk Camblets; Shalloons; Ratinets; Durants; Tammies; Calamances; Ruffles; Lastings; Satinets; Florentines.
A great variety of gilt, plated, steel, pearl, Italian and Imperial Buttons.
Embroidering and common Sewing Silks; Twill; white Threads; quality and shoe Bindings; Ferets; Galloons.
Dunstale, wove straw and vellum Hats and Bonnets.
Role d'Equipage.
For sale at J. Melcher's Printing-Office and Book-Store.
A "PASSPORT and Roll of Equipage, agreeably to the 25th and 27th articles of Treaty between France and the United States, made the 6th of Feb. 1778,—highly necessary for all vessels bound to foreign ports.

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 2.
The Lancaster German paper mentions, that on Tuesday the 11th ult. between the hours of two and three in the morning, there was felt in that town and its neighbourhood a severe shock of an Earthquake, which continued for several minutes—The shock was accompanied, it is said, with a blaze not unlike the burning of a chimney.
At Philadelphia, the 30th ult. a party were riding in a sleigh along Frontstreet, when their horses took fright and ran off, the gentlemen threw themselves out of the sleigh, without receiving any particular injury, but the horses ran upon the foot pavement with the sleigh, and killed one woman and very much injured another.
Extract of a letter to a merchant in this city, dated Basseterre (Guadaloupe) 5th Jan.
We have been alarmed here by a revolt of the Negroes; but they are conquered, and several hundred shot.
Prices of Provisions are as follows. Beef, - - 20 dollars, Pork, - from 15 to 18 do. Flour, - - 9 do.
Butter, Lard and Cheese would not fetch more than 9d. this currency.
The Mulattoes, Negroes and Charras have risen and taken possession of the island of Trinidad, except the capital.
Three regiments had sailed from Martinico to the relief of Trinidad.
Two new born infants were left at different houses in this city, on the same day of the present week; the one in an entry in Market-Street, the other in Fourth Street. The inhuman wretches who have done this, guilty of every thing short of murder, are informed, that the infants were both sent to the alms house, after being provided with necessary cloathing, where those concerned in the vile transaction may learn further particulars; and where the mothers, if such they may be called, should they ever feel compunction for the past, may atone in some degree for their inhumanity, by ministering to their future necessities, should the infants survive the shock first given, which is not often the case.
FEBRUARY 8.
The ship George, Wait, of Portland, from hence to Cadiz, is condemned, vessel and cargo, at Algeciras, for want of a role de equipage.
The schr. Kitty, Green, from hence to Cape-Francois, was captured on the 17th Dec. by the Thunderer man of war; and sent into the Mole.
NEW-YORK, Jan. 26.
We hear that a committee is appointed on that part of the Governor's speech which relates to usury. The Governor says, the law against usury is most grossly violated, and that it ought to be enforced or repealed. In this article we entirely agree with him.
An infinitely greater evil in this city, and one that injures and ruins ten families where usury does one, is the enormous house rent—it is a serious calamity, and were it possible to continue it for a series of years, New-York would be depopulated. The auctions of furniture in Wall-street, next May, will illustrate this idea to a conviction.
But what then? Shall the Legislature interpose to lower house rent? By no means. A wise and honest Legislature will go to the source of the evil—the enormous and unwarrantable speculations which have overwhelmed the commerce of our country. Yes, there is the source of the mischief. And the Legislature of this State, of other States, and of the United States, have directly, tho' we charitably hope not knowingly, created this source of mischief.
Wise and influential men need not be shocked at the charge. It is a solemn truth, that the great and extensive distress and wretchedness which is now felt in our country, is principally the natural consequence of selling the wild lands in this country. Public paper did great injury—the speculation in provisions have done much injury—but speculations in land have created more insolvency and its consequent miseries, than both of the other causes united. Yes, Legislatures have, by their haste in disposing of wild lands, and the manner of doing it, created and encouraged those speculations, and have spread ruin over our country.—Here is the source of mischief—and the rulers of our land are the fathers of it. They have held out the bait that has decoyed and allured thousands into the snare. And here is the cause for the demand of the money—here is the source of the enormous usury in our country, which, springing from distress, bids defiance to law. Here is the source of high rents—the money of the country has been drawn from building and improvements into the gulf of speculation.
Legislators, away with your narrow views—mount to the source of evils—cease to combat an effect, while you cherish the cause. Be assured of this truth, that no regulations of interest or profit of men's private property can ever be carried into effect—you are combating the shadow while you lose the substance.
FEB. 5.
Five persons have been apprehended and sent to jail, strongly suspected of the robbery of Mrs. Temple's house. Much of the lamp black which they made use of to stifle their fair complexions, remains about their necks and on their linen.
FEB. 10.
Two other persons have been apprehended on suspicion of robbing Mrs. Temple's house, one of whom is supposed to have acted as Captain of the gang.
BOSTON, Feb. 13.
The election of Gen. Jackson to the chief Magistracy of Georgia, is said to be a circumstance favorable to the Land Speculations, in that State, and was affected by an union of parties. His influence will not now be so immediate and ponderous in the Legislature; and to this influence, it is said, is attributable the strange measures of the General Assembly of that State. The Representatives may resume their independency of opinion; and the result may be the restoration of justice.
FIRES!
Last Sunday se'nnight, the dwelling-house of Mr. Joseph Murch, of Wales's Plantation, adjoining the town of Monmouth, (district of Maine), was consumed by fire, together with all his household furniture; and, melancholy to add, three children were burnt to death.
TYNGSBOROUGH, FEB. 14.
Last Saturday evening, between the hours of 11 and 12, the School-House in this town, erected upon the plan of Mrs. Winslow's donation, was discovered to be on fire; which, with a great number of books and quantity of paper, was reduced to ashes in about an hour. The fire began in the porch, from ashes carelessly left therein by a school-boy, contrary to the master's orders.—It is hoped better care will be taken of hot ashes, as by them fire is often communicated.
LITERARY.
We are happy to hear, that Major-General HEATH intends publishing Memoirs of the military events which occurred during the revolutionary war; and equally happy that the illustrious hero now retired to the tranquil shades of Mount Vernon, has, in a letter dated May last, expressed his approbation of the General's intention.
MARRIED
In this town, on Sunday evening last, by the Rev. Dr. Parker, Mr. JOHN TUCKER, to the amiable Miss HANNAH CROSBY, daughter of Mr. Daniel Crosby, both of this town—after a courtship of 14 years.
Baker's Island Light House.
Baker's Island on which the Light-House has lately been erected, is about three eighths of a mile long, tending about North and South, the Light House is on the northernmost end of said island, with two lights, those lights are about 40 feet from each other, ranging N. W. \frac{1}{4} W. and S. E. \frac{1}{2} E. the South Light, 95 feet from the surface of the water, and the North Light 78 feet.
Vessels inward bound and falling in with Cape Ann, may observe the following directions, viz. When abreast of Cape-Ann lights, bearing N. N. W. about two miles distance, steer W. S. W. about 3 leagues, which brings them up with the Eastern point of Cape Ann, then steer W. by S. 7\frac{1}{2} miles, which brings them up with the lights on Baker's Island.
Ships bound to Salem and falling in to the Southward in Boston Bay, and running for the lights, when making the lights, they must keep the North, and lowest light, open to the Eastward of the Southern light, and run for them, which will carry them to the Eastward and clear of the South Breaker of Baker's Island, which bears from the lights, S. E. by S. 1\frac{1}{2} mile distance.
Vessels bound to Salem, having made the lights with a westerly wind, in beating up, must not stand to the Southward and Westward, further than to shut one light in with the other, on account of the South Breaker; nor to the Northward further than to bring the lights to bear W. by S. \frac{1}{2} S. on account of Gale's ledge, which bears from the lights N. E. \frac{1}{2} E. 1\frac{1}{2} mile distance.
In going into Salem and being up with the lights, give Baker's island a birth of one quarter mile or less, then steer W. by N. and you will pass the Misery-Island, leaving it on your starboard hand, which bears from the lights, N. W. \frac{1}{2} N. distance 4\frac{1}{2} ths of
a mile, continue your course W. by N. one mile and a half, then you have passed Bowditch's ledge, leaving it on your larboard hand, where any stranger may anchor in safety, in about five fathom water, good anchoring ground. But, if you choose to proceed into Salem harbour, then steer West until abreast of the Haste, which you will leave on your larboard hand, at about half a mile distance, then steer S. W. by W. which will carry you into Salem harbour.
N. B. Eastern Point bears from Baker's Island lights, E. by N. \frac{1}{2} N. 7\frac{1}{2} miles distance. Half-Way-Rock bears from the lights, South one quarter East, 3\frac{1}{4} miles distance. Harding's Rocks bear from the lights, W. \frac{1}{2} N. distance half a mile.
Jonathan Mason, Benjamin West, Jno. Collins, Peter Lander, William Orne, Committee from the Marine Society of Salem.
At a meeting of the Marine Society held at Marine Hall, Wednesday, 6th of December, 1797, the above report of its committee was read and approved, and ordered to be published.
By order of the Society, BENJ. WEST, Master. JONA. MASON, Society's Clk.
SALEM, February 13.
ON BANKING.
An English writer has published a piece, which he entitles, " The Iniquity of Banking; or Bank Notes proved to be injurious to the public, & the real cause of the present exorbitant price of provisions. " According to the doctrines laid down by this writer, the enhanced price of provision, the miseries of the poor, the distresses of the middling classes, nay, the continuance, at least, if not the origin, of modern warfare, are all traced up to the banking system as their source. In short, he undertakes to show, "that the issuing of bank notes is productive of the same consequences as robbery, as by that means the produce of labour is obtained without labour, and every man in society deprived of a part of his property, or of the fruits of his labour."
The author asserts, that every alteration in the relative quantities of the circulating medium, and the commodities of a country, must necessarily produce a similar alteration in their relative value; that the price of merchandise of any kind will always rise or fall, in proportion to the demand, and that the demand must always be increased or diminished, in proportion to the increase or decrease of the money of the purchasers.
"Since then (adds he) it has been proved that increasing the circulation must necessarily increase the price of commodities, it becomes evident that bank notes, by which the money circulation of this country has been so prodigiously increased, are the real cause of the present exorbitant price of provisions; and such being the case, it must likewise be no less evident, that the banker as certainly robs every other man in the society, by circulating his notes, as by levying a tax, or by putting his hands into their pockets and taking out a part of their money. For there is no difference between enhancing the price of commodities, and lessening the value of money; and a man is equally injured, by having the money reduced, as by having a part of it taken away."
The author maintains, that it is not the increase of the taxes but of paper money, that has produced the present high price of commodities of every kind.
"Were all taxes," says he, levied directly upon income, they could produce no effect whatever on the price of commodities; for as the prices must depend on the demand, and as every man's demand must depend on his income, the whole demand on the prices of all the commodities must likewise depend upon the sum of all the incomes. A tax, therefore, which merely alters the distribution, without increasing the sum of the income of a state, as is the case with a direct tax, on income, could never vary the price of commodities."
The theory which this writer presents is certainly an ingenious one, and many of the positions appear to be founded on Adam Smith's "Wealth of Nations;" but perhaps the author carries his speculations rather too far. We are afraid, however, his assertion, that "war becomes the interest of all money lenders," is but two true. The fame may be said, of the passage in which he maintains that "in proportion as the luxuries of one part of the society are increased, the comforts of the other are diminished;" and it is surely a melancholy reflection, if the fact lately assented to in the house of commons be correct—that the labourer who has two children cannot possibly maintain them."
(Annual Review.)
From the MERCURY.
The Economist.
WE pursue again, our contemplations upon the mischiefs of the Gaming Table, and to examine the innumerable evils which result from the attachment to a false, and disreputable amusement, so very prevalent in the metropolis, and other seaports of Massachusetts. Where this habit prevails, there can be neither economy, prudence, family regularity, or a proper system of education.
Parents too frequently conceive, that when they have sent their children to the academy or school, given them a few precepts in morality, economy and prudence, their task is performed, they may recline themselves on the beds of thoughtless security, and leave the rest to fate. This is a horrid mistake in the economy of human life. Education is an unceasing application, and a vigilant attention to all the propensities and inclinations of the child. The tender plant receives its form from the pressure of the surrounding atmosphere, and becomes, as it rises, either crooked or strait, from the unequal, or the equal pressure of the air upon it. Every part of the child's conduct is to be carefully attended to, every fault assiduously corrected, each erroneous propensity eradicated, and every untoward inclination subverted.—The business of our life is only to prepare the succeeding generation to take possession of the world, which we must certainly in a little while relinquish to them. How this is to be effected, in a manner suitable to the dignity of our nature, is to be the subject of a future paper, in this we will pursue the consequences of gaming.
There is to be an object in view for every exertion, and that object is inadequate, unless it is suited to the nature of the animal, to whose senses, or understanding, it is proposed. Chance and accident are no motives to a rational mind, they have a natural tendency to weaken and relax it. They are an incitement to indolence and slothfulness, because whatever they may produce is not the acquisition either of care, industry, prudence, or wisdom. The hope of honor, fame, and wealth, is a proper incentive to lay before the eye of a rising generation. But if the idea is, that these may be acquired by fortuitous events, there is no stimulus to industry and exertion. The Parent should be careful both by precept and example, to instruct the child, that honor, fame, and wealth, depend upon achievements which can never be made, under dissipated habits of mind, or habitual indolence of body.
But of what avail are the most elegant, and well-adapted lectures from a parent, whose practice is directly the reverse of them? The mother may, in vain, by the most tender lessons, teach her daughter to avoid those practices which dissipate the mind, and corrupt the heart, if as soon as night gives the signal to retire from toil, the parent is seen at the card table, paying all her devotions to the fickle goddess of chance, & wrapt in anxiety, peevishness, and distress, under the frequent disappointments which becloud that manner of life. Besides this, the boy who puts his head into an oyster shed, or a grog shop, sees the most disreputable, and base part of the community, engaged in the same kind of amusements, as his parents are in at home.
When I was a young man I happened to take lodgings in a private house, where domestic felicity seemed to have taken up its abode. Six children appeared at the well set morning table of their cheerful parents. When they came from their chambers, they appeared dressed in ordinary for the whole day. Their appearance was the same, as if they approached to respectable visitors or strangers. Their several tasks were pleasantly and cheerfully reviewed, and the dining table received them again as cheerful friends. Their meal-times were hours of instruction and mental enjoyment: When the hand of evening beckoned them to recede from toil, they entered upon a social hour, with all the cheerfulness, with which people generally join the gayer circles of the community. The parents were the confidants of their children, in all the concerns of life. The children knew that they could find no better or surer friends, and when they were reprov'd or corrected, they received it as the marks of tenderness, and parental love. There were no cards or billiards, for none were necessary to their enjoyments. The sentimental song, the chaste historian, the well-adapted romance, the strokes of sprightly wit, and the pertinent tale filled up the leisure moments. That family was admired, even by those whose conduct were directly the reverse, they grew in reputation as they grew in years, their alliances and connections were solicited by the most honourable and worthy part of the
community, and their happiness was ultimately consummated.
I left that family with great reluctance, when I placed my abode in another of a very different mode of conduct. Here the whole business of the day appeared to be, but the preparation for the amusements of the evening. When the sun sunk below the horizon, the darkness of the night was anticipated by the window shutters, and the delay of the expected party was treated with a peevish impatience, and a fretful chiding. When the cards were displayed, the anxious children gathered round the knees of their parents with all the concern attending an interest at hazzard, and watched the success of the game in the rising and falling of their countenances. The children had great interest in the table, for if their father and mother were winners, the next morning was easy and cheerful, but if they were losers, the morning lowered, and the day was heavily dragged on with fretfulness and ill-nature.
The children of the first family I have described are now in good standing and high reputation, but those of the second are profligate, scandalous, and buried in ruin. The parents died lamenting the untoward fate of their offspring, but never reflected deep enough to view themselves as the authors of it.
Here is an obvious want of economy and a dangerous, and distressing violation of all the principles of it.
MORAL.
"Soon shall our mighty projects fail, And everlasting sleep prevail, And close our wearied eyes."
THE flow ebbing waves of the ocean, retiring from the shore, sink in their capacious bed, as if no more to rise; yet soon returning, they again overflow the strands they naked left behind: but the days of wretched man, when flown return no more: the waiting wave of time no more recoils: no kind reflux renews the sucking stream; but ceaseless, it pursues its course along the broad and boundless shores of that sea, where thick mists and impenetrable darkness overshadow the sluggish tide.—No art can stay the swiftly passing moments, nor human power arrest their fleeting motion. Yet, short and transient as is the life of man, he would fain contract it more.—He wishes the present past; and longs for a distant period to arrive, in which he promises himself some advantage, or fancied happiness.—But how often does the stream of life stop short of this imaginary spot!—How often his "mighty projects fail," and himself plunged into the dreary gulph, where an "everlasting sleep prevails."
Sons of men, improve the present moment. Your future plans and designs are but idle tales and empty dreams.—Before they are executed, you may be summoned to wander thro' the gloomy vale, where triumph reigns the king of terrors.
"Ambition, stop thy mad career, Look on that course and drop a tear; E'en when thy hand would grasp the prize, The stroke is giv'n, and glory dies."
ANECDOTE.
The wife of a person at Ratcliffe was, a few days ago, delivered of a child without arms.—The mother, being told of the imperfection, after the first shock, exclaimed "Well, thank God, I've one consolation—Mr. Pitt can never make it take out a license for wearing gloves!"
JUST PUBLISHED And for sale by S. Larkin, At the Portsmouth Book Store, A JOURNAL Of the Captivity and sufferings of John Foss, Several years a prisoner in Algiers: Together with some account of the treatment of Christian Slaves when sick—and observations on the manners and customs of the Algerines.
Portsmouth Aqueduct.
THE Directors of the Portsmouth Aqueduct proprietors, have voted an assessment of ten dollars on each proprietor there; and directed the Treasurer to collect the same on or before the 15th day of March next.—The several proprietors are therefore requested to pay the same to the Treasurer at his house in Portsmouth, agreeable thereto, in order to enable a punctilious compliance with the directors contract, made for the accomplishment of the business of the Aqueduct.
THOMAS MARTIN, Treasurer. Portsmouth, Feb. 20, 1798.
A LEATHER Bucket belonging to Mr. George Dame, was taken or carried away by mistake in the night, from the fire at Mrs. Briard's house, some time past, and one other Bucket was then left there without any name on it; the person having Mr. Dame's bucket, will please to inform him and he will exchange.
February 20.

CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
MONDAY, Feb. 5.
MR. Baldwin, from the committee to whom was referred the messages of the President of the United States, of the 1st and 8th of January, on the subject of the feasibility of the states, reported that nothing farther was necessary to be done, than to order the messages to be printed.—Ordered accordingly.
Mr. D. Foster reported a bill for the relief of Oliver Pollock, which was committed for Wednesday.
President's Message.
A message in writing was received from the President of the United States, in the following words:
Gentlemen of the Senate, and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives, I HAVE received a letter from his excellency Charles Pinckney, Esq., Governor of the state of South-Carolina, dated on the 22d of October, 1797, including a number of depositions of witnesses to several captures and outrages committed within and near the limits of the United States, by a privateer belonging to Cape-Francois or Monte Christo, called the Vertu or Vertu, and commanded by a person of the name of Jordon or Jourdain, and particularly upon an English merchant ship, named the Aracabessa, which he first plundered and then burned with the rest of the cargo of great value, within the territory of the United States, in the harbor of Charleston, on the 17th day of October last; copies of which letters and depositions relative to the same subject, received from the collector of Charleston, are herewith communicated.
Whenever the channels of diplomatic communication between the United States and France shall be opened, I shall demand satisfaction for the insult, and reparation for the injury.
I have transmitted these papers to Congress, not so much for the purpose of communicating an account of so daring a violation of the territory of the United States, as to show the propriety and necessity of enabling the executive authority of the country to take measures for protecting the citizens of the United States, and such foreigners as have a right to enjoy their peace and the protection of their laws within their limits, in that as well as some other harbors which are equally exposed.
JOHN ADAMS.
United States, 5th Feb. 1798.
This message, with the documents accompanying it was referred to the committee for considering on proper measures for the protection and defence of the country.
LYON vs. GRISWOLD.
Mr. Seward moved the house to take up the report of the committee of Privileges, in order that it might be committed to a committee of the whole.
Mr. R. Williams wished to know whether evidence could be heard in committee of the whole.
The speaker said, the house might authorize the committee of the whole to hear evidence.
Mr. Seward moved the report to be committed. If gentlemen wished evidence to be heard before the committee they would, of course, make an addition to his motion. For his own part he thought it unnecessary.
Mr. Nicholas had no objection to evidence being heard before a committee of the whole, except that it might involve the subject in some embarrassment; as it were possible that a majority of the committee might come to a decision, which, according to the Constitution, it would require two-thirds of the House to confirm. He saw no reason for going into a committee, except that the Speaker would have to give his testimony; but he did not see why the Speaker might not give his testimony from his seat, as well as from any other place. By going into a committee, the subject would take up longer time than it otherwise would do, as they should have twice to go over the same ground.
Mr. R. Williams was in favour of hearing the evidence before the committee.
Mr. Thatcher was not of opinion with the gentleman from Virginia that this matter should be run over as soon as possible. He thought it of infinite importance, as it respected the dignity of the House and the people at large, and he hoped it would go through every form of the House.
The question for a commitment was put and carried, and it was made the order for this day.
Mr. Nicholas then moved that the committee of the whole be authorized to examine testimony, and called for yeas and nays upon the question; which being agreed upon, they were taken, and, so little opposition was there to this mode of proceeding, that the question was carried 88 to 4. The negatives were Messrs. Gordon, Seward, Sitgreaves and Thatcher.
Mr. D. Foster moved that the committee should be authorized to report the whole of the evidence, as he thought it was important that it should be entered upon the journals.—Carried.
The House then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Mr. Dent in the chair, on this subject.
Mr. Thatcher said it would be necessary that a judge should attend to administer an oath to the members, who should be called upon to give their testimony.
The chairman informed the committee that the judge of the District Court was in the House.
Judge Peters was accordingly called upon. Mr. Rutledge desired an oath might be administered to the Speaker, Messrs. S. Smith, Brookes, Holmer, Coit, Dana, Goodrich and Champlin, which was accordingly done.
Mr. Rutledge said, if there should be occasion, he should also call upon Judge Chipman, a Senator from Vermont, as an evidence.
Mr. Chipman was, towards the close of the sitting, also sworn.
Some conversation took place as to the best mode of taking the evidence, whether, as it was reported to the House, it should be received from the witnesses in writing, leaving them to be questioned afterwards by
the members of the committee, or whether it should be given viva voce , deliberately, and taken down by the Clerk.
The latter mode was at length adopted, and the House proceeded to the examination of witnesses, which continued, until the House adjourned.
TUESDAY, Feb. 6.
In committee of the whole Mr. Dent in the chair on the subject of the contention between Mr. Griswold and Lyon.
The committee proceeded in the examination of the witnesses—which continued the whole sitting.
WEDNESDAY, Feb. 7.
Mr. Giles, from Virginia, appeared for the first time to day.
The Speaker suggested the propriety of sending a message to the Senate, informing them that the House of Representatives had appointed managers to conduct the impeachment against William Blount.
The question was accordingly put and carried.
The managers of the impeachment, accompanied by the members of the House accordingly went up to the Senate for the purpose of exhibiting the articles of impeachment against William Blount; when being introduced, Mr. Sitgreaves made known their mission by an address to the President of the Senate; after which the President having said the Senate were ready to receive the articles of impeachment; and the Serjeant at arms having proclaimed silence, the other managers having taken their seats appointed them, Mr. Sitgreaves proceeded to read the articles of impeachment; which having finished, the President of the Senate returned for answer, words to the following effect:
"Gentlemen, managers on the part of the House of Representatives, the Senate will take such order on the articles of impeachment which you have exhibited before them, as shall seem to them proper, of which due notice will be given to the House of Representatives."
Upon which the managers and members retired.
The house then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, on the report of the committee of privileges; when Mr. Varnum was called upon for his testimony. The evidence of Mr. Varnum being gone through; Messrs. Van Cortlandt, Harper, Cochran and Stanford were sworn.
The committee then rose and had leave to sit again. Adjourned.
THURSDAY, Feb. 8.
Mr. Bayard from the committee appointed to prepare and report an uniform system of bankruptcy, reported a bill which was committed for Monday week.
The house again resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the report of the committee of privileges, Mr. Dent in the chair.
The reading the evidence by the clerk being finished, the chairman read over the resolution which had been reported by the committee of privileges. After which Mr. Lyon rose, and entered into an explanation which continued with some interruption till the committee rose.
FRIDAY, Feb. 9.
The Speaker laid before the house a communication from the Secretary of the Treasury, including a statement of the amount of drawbacks paid on dutiable articles for the year 1796, agreeably to a resolution of the house of the 3d of March, 1797, which was ordered to be printed.
After some further preliminary business, the affair of Col. Lyon was again taken up; when Mr. Harper complained of the gross and indecent language of Col. Lyon at the close of his defence, in saying, though in a low voice, "I did not come here to have my a—kicked by every body." The chairman put the offensive expression in writing, but not until after considerable debate. The question for this reference was carried by the casting vote of the Speaker, there being 43 votes for it, and 43 votes against it.
The house then again resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the report of the committee of privileges, Mr. Dent in the chair; when a long debate ensued, which was opened by Mr. Shepard, in favour of the resolution. He was followed by Mr. Nicholas against it. Messrs. Otis, Rutledge and Sitgreaves followed in favor of the resolution. The latter gentleman moved to add to the resolution, as an amendment, "and for the gross indecency of language made use of in his defence before the committee of the whole." This amendment was agreed to after some debate, 48 to 43.
The amendment being incorporated with the resolution, Mr. Gallatin spoke against agreeing to it as amended.
There seemed to be a great desire, very loudly expressed, that the question should be taken before the committee rose; but Mr. Seward and Mr. Rutledge, both appearing to have a desire to speak to the subject, and it being near four o'clock, the committee rose and had leave to sit again.
Mr. Livingston asked and obtained leave of absence for his colleague Mr. Van Cortlandt, for eight days.
NORFOLK, Feb. 3.
On Thursday arrived in Hampton Roads the Snow William, Capt. Wells, 43 days from Lisbon, bound to Baltimore. From Mr. Brandram, (a gentleman who came passenger in the above vessel) we have information that he read in a London paper of the 27th or 28th of November an account of the arrival in London of one of the American Commissioners from Paris, but which of them he does not recollect. He further informs, that he had it from the best authority that Lord St. Vincent, with his fleet and the whole of the British troops were to evacuate Lisbon in the course of a few weeks. The queen of Portugal had forwarded 80 pounds weight of Diamonds to Paris in part payment of the sum stipulated for in the treaty made between her and France.
The story of the beautiful Ghost EXPLAINED.
LITCHFIELD, Jan. 31. Under the New-York head of the 10th inst. is published, "A true and surprising account of the apparition or ghost of a wo-
man, that has appeared several nights past in the New Goal (in the fields) to the great terror and affright of the prisoners—many of whom are ready to confirm the truth of it on oath."—The story is well told; and to give it the appearance of truth, the names of several reputable prisoners (debtors) are introduced, who describe the ghost as dressed in a white flowing robe, tinged with blood on the left side, and a turban on her head, of a pleasing, placid countenance, but much dejected—followed and encircled by a radiant light, and sometimes preceded by a globe of fire. The recital is frightful in the extreme—calculated to make
"They knotted and combined locks to part, And each particular hair to stand on end, Like quills upon the fretful Porcupine."
I wonder what it means, has been vociferated by a thousand tongues: The fact is, a young married woman, whose husband was confined for debt, despairing of other means (the creditor being uncharitable and stubborn) conjured up the ghost; and trusting the secret with a confidential Printer, the account was printed before it was lifted abroad, and immediately put into the hawks-hands for sale: The project succeeded—business was suspended: The multitude flocked about the goal. And here again the hawks were at their posts, vending their bills of the appearance and performances of the ghost. The debtor's wife having in a short time, raised a sufficient sum to satisfy his creditors, and to gladden his heart with a nourishing repast— Miss Puff was let out of the bag , and the abashed multitude returned, one to his stall and the other to his merchandise.
BOSTON, Feb. 19.
FROM SPAIN.
We are informed, by a gentleman from Marblehead, of the arrival there, on Friday morning, of Capt. Hooper, in 45 days from Bilboa, who says it was reported at Bilboa, before he failed, that General Buonaparte had arrived at Paris, from Italy—that he had been complimented with a civic seal, at which all the Foreign Ministers had been invited, except the Envoys of the United States! * That an Embargo had been laid throughout France; and that an American vessel, commanded by Capt. Dixey, of Marblehead, had been taken and sent into Bayonne, her Role d'Equipage not being complete.
It is said this vessel brought 50,000 dollars, her Fifth sold for 15 dollars. pr. quintal —this is one of the nations to which our war-hawks wish to wage war, that supply us with specie, while that of the BRITISH devour every dollar.
* And why not our Envoys? For this plain reason, that they are not Ministers Stationary, but Negotiators for settling existing disputes; and while differences remain unsettled, it could not be expected that they would receive those friendly invitations at public festivals which the Friendly diplomatic Ministers are entitled to, and do receive.
Late European News!
We have only time to give the following important intelligence,—extracted from the Philadelphia papers, per last evening's mail—containing news to the 11, 15 and 19 of December last, in London:
SUMMARY.
The British Stocks vary but little, being at 49 and 50. Notwithstanding the Treaty with Portugal is ratified, and the English troops there, much distressed for want of provisions, Lord St. Vincents continues off the harbour of Lisbon. Buonaparte and his army had left Italy, and every exertion was making in France to invade England.
A new Conspiracy had been detected and suppressed in Paris, and the criminals have been apprehended and imprisoned.
The Pope however has refused to acknowledge the new Italian Republic, and ten thousand French soldiers are to return to know the reason why.
But what is most important, there is great opposition and alarm in England, on account of Mr. Pitt's budget. Messrs. Fox, Sheridan, &c. have consequently resumed their seats in parliament.
It is said the Emperor of Russia is in league with the Pope, (but this is highly improbable)—and that our Commissioners were received, and negotiating, on the middle of December; but this does not agree with our other information—Time will soon show what may be depended on.
Extract of a letter received at New-York, by the brig Hazard.
SIR, London, Nov. 6, 1797. On your arrival at New-York, please to mention,—that the Schooner Industry, of Boston, David Stinson, from Bourdeaux, bound to Altona, on 26th August, was taken by the Anson frigate, Capt. Derham, and sent into Falmouth; and after examination of the papers, finding them clear, then offered one of the seamen on board £50 to make oath against the vessel and cargo; and now to clear themselves of the damages, they are trying all ways to condemn the cargo.
(Signed) DAVID STINSON.
SPANISH ARREST.
[Received by Capt. Hopkins, Translated by Mr. Sales.]
Having read to the King the reflections of the Board of Commerce, and having informed him of other precedents, and of what occurred in the former war against Great Britain, his Majesty has been pleased to grant permission, that during the actual war, the Commerce of Spain, with her possessions in America, should be carried on with neutral flags, and having full liberty to the merchants to expedite the vessels of this description, either from the licenced ports in Spain, or from those of Foreign Nations. But the vessels of this last class, must submit to three conditions:
1st. That they must pay in the ports of America, besides the duties established there, those that they would have paid, had they failed from Spain. 2d. That they must not carry any of the articles prohibited by the regulation of free commerce. 3d. That the returns must be made to the ports of the Peninsula, without being subjected to any in particular. On these conditions we grant all the solicitations made on this subject.
SAABEDRA.
Further, the King has been pleased to grant free Commerce in general, from the necessity of loading determined quantities of foreign goods, that are sent to America; and the Department of State, in Spain, notifies it to that of America, for their information and government in what concerns them.
St. Lorenzo, Nov. 17th, 1797. GAREL.
About 40 sail of American vessels are said to be at Aux-Cayes—can do nothing on account of the scarcity of specie. A mortal fever rages at that place.
The Roebuck packet had arrived at Port-Royal from Falmouth—a letter by her mentions that his Majesty has directed that the free ports in Jamaica be opened to the Spaniards notwithstanding the war.
Kingston, Jam. Jan. 6. By the brig Jupiter from Cork, last from Lisbon, from whence she failed the 16th Nov. we learn, that the Spanish Ambassador had been ordered to quit Paris, and a declaration of War by France against Spain was daily expected. Lord St. Vincent, with 15 sail of the line, was in the Tagus, and the British troops had possession of all the forts and garrisons on the river. Three large ships, full of troops, entered the harbor of Lisbon, Nov. 16, the day the Jupiter failed.
GEORGE WASHINGTON'S BIRTH-DAY.
With the greatest pleasure we observe that active preparations are making, in almost every town in the United States, for the celebration of the BIRTH-DAY of the illustrious WASHINGTON, on the 22d inst. when he enters on the 67th year of his life—a life ever devoted to the dearest interests and felicity of mankind. The enthusiastic happiness which pervades the breast of every patriot, the sincere gratitude and admiration that arise from a contemplation of the services rendered the world in general, and America in particular, by GEORGE WASHINGTON, are such as men only can feel, but not sufficiently express.
Capt. Hopkins, from Malaga, informs, that intelligence had been received from Paris, by the way of Madrid, to the 27th of December, which stated, that the American Envoys had not, to that period, had an audience of the Directory—The Abigail of Boston, a prize, had been sold, and fitted out as a privateer. A new Consul had arrived at Carthagena from France, and the further sale of prizes had been stopped. The Pomonah and Telemachus of Boston, had not been sold; but were ruined by the ignorance of those who had the care of them. The French, finding the judges of Aix, just and favorably disposed towards American property, had removed them, and appointed a new set—Their own creatures.
It is nothing new to have to give the Lie to Chronicle assertions. It is a duty, however to prevent the most simple from being imposed on. A foul fellow with the signature of "Fair Play," yesterday laid the President had been in possession of dispatches from our Envoys a month since. This is false. The writer knew it to be false; but hoped it might irritate the People against their Government. No advices have been received from the Envoys since they reached Paris. Letters from our Minister in London to the latter part of Oct. and from that at the Hague to Nov. 10, left the writers totally ignorant of the situation of the well-intended Negotiation with France. Some conjecture our Commissioners are in arrest. Probably there is an embargo in France, as a preliminary to the invasion of Great-Britain. If any thing decisive had happened, and there had been a possibility our Envoys would have acquainted the Government. [Mercury.]
Feb. 13. Arrived the fast sailing brig Joseph, Capt. Hopkins, in 28 days from Malaga. A distance of 3000 miles. Left no Northern vessels at Malaga. About 10 days since in lat. 40. long. 61. spoke brig Nancy, from New-York for Liverpool.
Feb. 14. Arrived sch. Phenix, Rich, N. Providence, 18 days.
The Exchange of Salem, was spoken with Nov. 90, near Cape of Good Hope.
The Nancy, from Batavia for N. York was spoken with about the 6th of Nov. off the Cape of Good Hope.
At Jacquemel, Dec. 30. Sally, Simpson, of Newburyport; Isabella, Hussey; and Martin, Roach, of Portland; and Hope, Moulton of Beverly.
On the 24th ult. in lat. 37. 39. long. 74. W. Capt. Smith, in sloop Betsey, bound from Alexandria to Providence, spoke sch. Nancy, Benj. Wilson, master, from Georgetown (S. C.) bound to Philadelphia, out 72 days, in great distress, sails and rigging much shattered. Had on board 18 in number, part of the crews of two vessels wrecked on the coast. Out of meat 40 days, & of bread 18 days—allowance of water, 1 gill per day for 10 days—and had subsisted on rice and sweet potatoes. Capt. Smith supplied them with 60 gallons of water, 1 barrel of bread and some other provisions and necessaries, and parted company at 3 o'clock the same day. Wind S. W. by W.
For the GAZETTE.
"Where are you Lout? Here Ma'am says I; for God's sake let me out!" THAT any of my sex beheld Adin Towner in the Pillory on Friday last is a truth I will not deny, but the principles on which we were induced to behold the sight, are in my humble opinion different from those ascribed to us by "Charley Peirce, Doct. Peirce's son of Kittery." Blackguardism is a quality few of us possess, none in such perfection as the black guard, formerly belonging on board the Continental frigate Providence, therefore we cannot enter the list with an equal chance of victory. If facts had any place in the Oracle, I should not do any thing more than in the same paper, deny the charge brought forward against us, with such evident marks of exultation; and shall now do nothing more than offer an excuse for my breach of good manners in jostling Pompey's wife; the facts are, that on the same day Adin Towner stood in
the Pillory, I was returning home from a visit to the shops in Market-street, when finding myself in a very great crowd, and attempting to force my way through, I beheld a certain person offering to kiss Pompey's wife, as they both stood directly in my way, and thinking such a public place rather an improper one for such business, I gently jostled Pompey's wife, in order that she might get out of my way, and for this breach of good manners, forsooth, all the world must be told I was present on that occasion; now I do not think this fair play, and perhaps the Editor of the Oracle may hereafter hear in some other way (if any thing more should be said about me) from
LADY FIDDLE FADDLE.
PORTSMOUTH, Feb. 21.
OLIVER JOHNSON,
The man said to have been murdered. The above Mr. Johnson, we understand, was in New-York a few weeks since, and lodged in the same house with a citizen of this state, who says that Johnson had spent or lost his money, and wishing to escape from his creditors, to prevent a pursuit, procured him to write the said letter, and paid him two dollars for his trouble. The writer was recognized by his hand-writing, acknowledged the fact, and is taken into custody. [Conn. pap.]
On Friday, Adin Towner, convicted of forgery, stood in the pillory from 12 to 1 o'clock, agreeably to sentence of the Superior Court of Judicature then sitting in this town.
The proprietors and workers of coal mines in Virginia, have petitioned Congress praying a prohibition of foreign coal, or a protecting duty, so that they may be able to pursue their business to advantage.
DIED—In this town, a Child of Mr. Thomas Sherburne.
Died suddenly at Weare, on Saturday the 3d inst. the Reverend Mr. Wood, Pastor of the Church in that town.—It is with the keenest regret that we mention this severe loss to the town of Weare, to the World, and to Religion and Morality, But,
"Though sudden was the stroke Which shot his vital breath, He must obey, 'twas God who spoke" And yield to cruel death."
O happy death for him, how highly blest, The soul departs and wings its way to rest. The loss of such a friend we deeply mourn, While He's to bliss supreme by Angels borne.
At Concord, on Saturday 3d inst. of the Canker-Rash, a child of Mr. Jacob Emmons.
"Sleep happy babe, and take thy rest, 'God call'd you home—he tho't it best."
** The piece signed, E PLURIBUS UNUM, came too late for this day's paper, but will find a place in our next.
ENTRIES at the CUSTOM-HOUSE.
District of PORTSMOUTH, N. H. ENTERED FROM Brig Olive Branch, Row, St. Bartholomews. CLEARED FOR Brig Sterling, Brown, Curacoa. Brig Maria, Watts, Laguira. Brig Betty, Turner, Laguira. Ship America, Chadwick, Surinam. Brig Fufleer, Chase, Laguira.
FOR SALE,
A lot of LAND in Deerfield, WITH a house, shop and barn thereon, now occupied by John T. Coffin, for terms apply to M. S. MARSH.
To be sold a lot of land, with a new house, barn and store thereon, SITUATED in Gilmantown, adjoining to Meredith bridge, and is perhaps as good a stand for Trade or for a public Inn, as can be found in this State, of its value, a rent equal to ten pr. cent. may now be had for it for three years, on lease, and as a sum nearly amounting to what is asked for it has been offered, the prospect of its being soon sold is very encouraging; some other House Lots not far from the preceding, may be bought on reasonable terms, by applying to the subscriber in Portsmouth.
JOHN WENDELL, or Mr. JOSHUA LOVEJOY, near the premises. Feb. 20, 1798.
THE subscribers commissioners appointed by the hon. Samuel Tenney, Esq., Judge of the Probate of Wills, &c. for the county of Rockingham, to receive and examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of Samuel Pickering, late of Greenland, in said county, gentleman, deceased, represented insolvent; hereby give notice that they will attend for that service, at the dwelling-house of Joshua Pickering, innholder in said Greenland, on the last Thursday of this and the five following months, from four to eight o'clock in the afternoon.
CLEMENT WEEKS, } Commissioners. SAMUEL FAYBANE, } JOSHUA PICKERING, } Greenland, Feb. 20, 1798.
RANAWAY from
the subscriber an indented apprentice boy named Benjamin Thomas, about 18 years of age, carried away sundry articles of clothing; is a short thick set lad, rather of a dark complexion, had served a few years at the farming business; whoever will take up said lad and return him to his master, shall have ONE CENT reward and no charges paid. All persons are hereby forbid harboring or trusting said runaway, on his master's account.
JOSIAH ROBINSON. Exeter, Feb. 19, 1798.

The TEARS of a NUN; or, a PICTURE of a CONVENT. WITHIN the drear and silent gloom, The lost Louisa pines, unknown; Fate throws her in a dying tomb, And heaven relieves her groan: Yet mid the murky shades of woe, The tears of fond regret shall flow. Yon lofty wall that mocks my grief, Still echoes with my evening prayer; The gale that fans the trembling leaf Shall waft it through the realms of air, Till prostrate at the throne of heaven, Unpiet'd love shall be forgiven; Or, if to endless sorrow born— If doom'd to fade a victim here: Still pining, friendless, and forlorn, Ah! let Religion drop one tear: Like holy incense shall it prove, To heal the wounds of hopeless love. Ye blackening clouds that sail along, Oh, hide me in your shade profound; Ye whisp'ring breezes catch my song, And bear it to the woods around; Perchance some hapless Patriarch's feet May wander near this dear retreat. Ah! tell him love's delicious strain No rapture yields, no joys inspires, Where fell exclusion's icy chain Has long subdu'd its quiv'ring fires; No ray of comfort gilds the gloom, That marks the hopeless vestal's tomb. The ruby gem within my breast, Now faintly glows with vital heat; Each warring passion links to rest: My freezing pulses flowly beat. Soon shall these languid eye-balls close, And death's stern mandate seal my woes. Then when the virgin's matin song Shall 'midst the vaulted roof resound, Haply the tuneful seraph throng Shall whisper gentle piety round; While VIRTUE fighting o'er my bier, Shall drop unseen—A SAINTED TEAR.
FOR SALE BY  Clement Jackson, At Store No. 4, Portsmouth Pier. 30 bds. West-India Rum, of a superior quality. 20 bds. Molasses. 10 pipes Gin and Brandy.
State of New-Hampshire. Grafton, ff. TO be sold at public vendue on the fourth Tuesday of April next, at 10 of the clock in the fore- noon, at the house of Samuel Good- hue, jr. in Grafton, in said county, so much of the following lots of land in said Grafton, as will pay the taxes af- fected thereon for the year 1797, with all legal costs, unless prevented by pre- vious payment to me the subscriber.
   No. R. D. Ac's Dls. Cts.     Henry Thomson, 5 7 3 60 2 18   Noah Thomson, 2 2 3 46 5 42   Henry Thomson, jr. 7 14 3 100 5 39   James Taylor, 7 1 3 100 5 44   Wm. Taylor, 15 3 1 50 3 16   Daniel Lovejoy, 3 2 3 100 5 42   Amos Phillips, 3 7 3 100 5 26   John Atwell, 7 10 3 50 2 16   Moses Boynton, 10 1 3 100 6 52   Tho's Wentworth 15 3 3 100 5 39   John Wentworth, 16 2 1 50 2 17   Amos Beck, 10 6 2 50 2 21   Samuel Hart, jr. 18 2 2 50 2 17   M. H. Wentworth, 50 interval 10 1 59   19 2 1 50 3 26   19 3 2 50 3 26   4 2 3 100 5 39   8 3 3 100 6 52   Nathan Stearns, 25 1 1 80 4 34   2 2 1 20 1 10   James Wilson, 40 1 10   Jacob Foster, 1 80 4 31   R. C. Shannon, 6 10 3 50 2 15   Matthew Thomson, 4 1 3 90 5 35   BLEAZER BALL, jr. Collector.   Groton, Jan. 18, 1798.  
State of New-Hampshire. NOTICE is hereby given to the nonresident proprietors and owners of lands in the town of Mer- edith, in the county of Strafford, and State aforesaid, who are delinquent in their highway tax for the year 1797, that unless the same is paid to me the subscriber, on or before the 3d Mon- day in April next, so much of their land as will pay the same with inciden- tal charges will be sold on said day at public vendue, at the dwelling house of Richard Boynton, innholder in said town, at 10 o'clock, A. M. unless prevented by previous payment.
   D. R. No. Ac's Dls. Cts.     Peirce & Moor, 1 6 10 0 37   do 2 0 25 120 0 29   do 3 0 62 95 0 15   Jona. Robinson, 1 3 8 50 0 25   For the use of the proprietors, 2 0 9 120 0 20   Josiah Sanborn & John Sanborn 1 6 8 33 0 6   do 3 0 46 95 0 20   do 3 0 60 95 0 15   Gordan & Kelley, 2 0 50 120 0 40   Daniel Thurston, 2 0 81 120 0 20   do 3 0 81 95 0 15   Capt. John Ford, 2 0 75 120 0 40   Capt. Eben. Sweasy 2 0 27 60 0 23   Joseph Jewett, 3 0 49 95 0 20   Benja. Barker, 3 0 75 95 0 20   Samuel Lane for farm Levi Lea- 2 0 8 115 1 41   vitt lives on, Chase Crockett, 1 0 1 100 0 40   JOHN GILMAN, Collector.   Meredith, Jan. 11, 1798.  
State of New-Hampshire. WHEREAS a meeting of the proprie- tors of Thornton, as granted by his late Excellency Benning Wentworth, by letters patent dated the 6th day of July, 1763, a tax of two dollars per right was granted to be laid out in clearing roads, &c. which tax has been duly assessed and com- mitted to me the subscriber as collector thereof, and I have duly advertised the same, but many of the original rights re- main still delinquent in paying such tax— Therefore notice is hereby given to the owners of such delinquent rights, that un- less such tax of two dollars per right as a- foresaid shall be paid to me at my dwelling house in Hampstead by the 20th day of March next, or at the place to be hereby appointed for the sale of delinquent rights in said township, that so much of each of such right will be sold at public vendue at the dwelling house of Capt. Edmund Elliot in said Thornton, on the said 20th day of March next ensuing, as will be sufficient to discharge such tax with incidental charges, the vendue to begin at 1 of the clock in the afternoon on said day, at the house aforesaid, at which time and place articles of sale will be made known.
The original rights now delinquent in paying such tax are as follows, viz. Matthew Thornton, John Doak, John Moor, Jonathan Gilmore, Thomas Christy, Andrew Jack, John M'Lean, Samuel Mor- rison, Joseph Morrison, James Cochran, David Anderson, Thomas Morrison, John Gilmore, Samuel Steel, Robert Cliniding, Andrew Cliniding, David Cliniding, Archibald Cliniding, Andrew Cliniding, jr. Samuel Morrison, David Craig, Hugh Ramsey, David Montgomery, Sam'l Gregg, Thomas Gregg, John Campbell, John M c - Cartney, James Alexander, James Doak, John Taggard, James Taggard, John Swan, William M c Nea, Fitch Pool, Wm. Taylor, Thomas Walley, Isaac Thomas, Hugh Gillis, Wm. Alld, Wm. Howard, hon. John Temple, Theodore Atkinson, Esq. Theodore Atkinson, jr. Esq. Col. Joseph Smith, and Col. John Goffe. The society for propagating the Gospel in foreign parts one share, one share for a glebe for the church of England, and one share for the benefit of a school forever. JOHN HOGG, Prop rs Collector. Hampstead, Feb. 15, 1798.
State of New-Hampshire. NOTICE is hereby given to the delin- quent proprietors and owners of the common and undivided land in the town of Acworth, in the county of Cheshire, and State aforesaid; that at a legal meeting of the proprietors of said common and undi- vided land held in said Acworth, on the 21st day of September, 1797, a tax of fifty cents was voted to be raised upon each orig- inal right or share of said common and un- divided land, for the purpose of defraying the expence of taking a survey and making out a plan of the same. Notice is hereby given that unless said tax, with incidental charges, is paid to me the subscriber, on or before the third day of May next, so much of their land as will pay the same with inci- dental charges, will be sold on said day, at public vendue, at the dwelling-house of Mr. Galen Allen, innholder in said Acworth, at 10 o'clock, A. M. unless prevented by previous payment. The names of the delin- quent proprietors are as follows:
   Col. Sampson Stoddard, Cents.     William Stacy, 50   John Byam, 50   Reuben Gould, 50   Oliver Pierce, 50   Samuel King, 50   Jacob Farmer, 50   Ebenezer Gould, 50   David Brown, 50   Moses Easterbrooks, 50   Sampson Stoddard, jun. 50   Vryling Stoddard, 50   Jonathan Blanchard, 50   William Thomson, 50   Timothy Duffin, 50   Oliver Farwell, 50   Oliver Farwell, jun. 50   Nathaniel Gearfield, 50   John Hardy, 50   James Blanchard, 50   Ephraim Adams, 50   Reuben Kellecutt, 50   Augustus Blanchard 50   James Rogers, 50   David M c Gregor, 50   James M c Gregor, 50   James M c Gregor, jun. 50   James M c Ilmore, 50   Alexander Clark, 50   Thomas Craige 50   Jonathan Gilmore, 50   Daniel M c Fee, 50   Edward Gold Lutwyche, 50   Samuel French, 50   Stephen Powers, 50   William Roby, 50   Jonathan Hardy, 50   Thomas Blanchard, jun. 50   David Burge, 50   Samuel Barron, 50   Benjamin Byam, 50   William Pierce, 50   Joseph Pierce, 50   Benjamin Butterfield, 50   Benjamin French, 50   Matthew Thornton, 50   Robert Fletcher, 50   Samuel Cummings, 50   Moses Parker, 50   Nathaniel Butterfield, 50   Wiseman Clagget, Esq. 50   Maj. John Wentworth, 50   Hon. James Nevins, 50   Theodore Atkinson, Esq. 50   Peter Levius 50   Rev. Ebenezer Bridge, 50   Col. Jonathan Greeley, 50   Lieut. John Parker, 50   George Jaffrey, Esq. 50   FREDERIC LOCKE, Prop rs Collector.   Acworth, Jan. 29, 1798.  
State of New-Hampshire. NOTICE is hereby given to the non- resident proprietors, owners of land in the town of Ossipee, who have not paid their county tax for the year 1796— that unless said tax is paid to the subscriber at his dwelling house in Ossipee aforesaid, on or before the 16th day of April next; so much of their lands will be sold at pub- lic vendue, at the house of Capt. Jacob Brown in said Ossipee, at ten of the clock in the forenoon on said day, as will pay said tax and incidental charges. No. Q'ty. Cents.
   State of New-Hampshire. Strafford ff.     NOTICE is hereby given to the non- residents, proprietors or owners of land in the town of Ossipee, who have not paid their county tax for the year 1796—   that unless said tax is paid to the subscriber at his dwelling house in Ossipee aforesaid, on or before the 16th day of April next; so much of their lands will be sold at pub-   lic vendue, at the house of Capt. Jacob Brown in said Ossipee, at ten of the clock in the forenoon on said day, as will pay said tax and incidental charges. No. Q'ty. Cents.   Theodore Atkinson, 9 200 3   ditto 45 400 6   Thomas Willingford, 36 400 6   John Moffatt, 43 400 6   Richard Wibird, 88 400 6   ditto 33 400 6   PORTER GILMAN, Collector.   Ossipee, Dec. 1, 1797.  
State of New-Hampshire. NOTICE is hereby given to the non- resident proprietors, owners of land in the town of New-Hampton, who are delin- quent in paying the highway and county taxes for the year 1797, that so much of their land will be sold at public vendue, at the dwelling house of Jeremiah Marlow, in New-Hampton, on Monday the 16th day of April next, as will pay the same with incidental charges, unless prevented by pre- vious payment.
NATHL MARSHALL. Portsmouth, Feb. 12, 1798.
State of New-Hampshire. WHEREAS by an act of the General Court of said State, passed at their session in December, 1796, at tax of three cents per acre was granted upon each and every acre of land in Lyman, in the county of Grafton, for the term of one year (ex- cept public lands) for the purpose of ma- king roads and bridges, and repairing the same as set forth in said act, and by which the proprietors and owners of said land are allowed to pay each one his proportion thereof in work at six cents per hour for an able bodied man, finding his own tools and diet; this is to inform all concerned that the selectmen of said Lyman, for the time being under whose directions the work is to be done, will be ready to employ the pro- prietors and owners of said lands as afore- said, any time between the 1st day of May next and the 1st day of October next en- suing the date hereof, the names of the said proprietors and owners with the number of their lots, quantity of land, and taxes there- on are as follows, viz.
   No. acres dols. cts.     Edward Cutts, 1 228 6 84   Isaac Bishop, 2 328 9 84   Elisha Lyman, 3 328 9 84   Joseph Beacher, 5 128 3 84   Joseph Newmarch, 6 328 9 84   John Beacher, 8 328 9 84   James Blackfly, 10 178 5 84   Stephen Johnson, 11 328 9 84   John Millar, 12 328 9 84   James Bradley, 13 228 6 84   Israel Bishop, 14 128 3 84   Timothy Ruggles, 15 328 9 84   Joseph Root, 16 328 9 84   Andrew Bradley, 17 328 9 84   Thomas Wilmot, 18 328 9 84   Ezra Dodge, 20 328 9 84   Daniel Basset, 21 328 9 84   Joseph Thomson, 22 328 9 84   Zadock Allen, 24 328 9 84   Timothy Talmage, 27 114 3 42   Princias Bradley, 28 178 5 84   Ezekiel Hotkis, 29 178 5 84   David Aultson, 31 50 1 50   Samuel Wilmot, 32 62 1 86   Benjamin Bradley, 33 328 9 84   Hezekiah Tuttle, 34 328 9 84   Gideon Lyman, Esq. 35 328 9 84   Timothy Bradley, 36 328 9 84   Daniel Lyman, Esq. 37 328 9 84   Samuel Bishop, jr. 38 328 9 84   Moses Ford, 39 328 9 84   Elisha Southwell, 40 228 6 84   Amos Perkins, 41 278 8 10   Gadd Smith, 42 52 1 56   Phineas Lyman, Esq. 43 75 2 25   Gideon Lyman, Esq. 45 328 9 84   Elisha Lyman, 49 228 6 84   John Mix, 50 228 6 84   Ebenezer Phelps, 51 328 9 84   Jacob Heaton, 53 328 9 84   John Beaker, 55 328 9 84   Silvanus Bishop, 56 278 8 84   Samuel Aultson, 57 228 6 84   Elikam Hall, 59 278 8 84   Miles Lyman, 60 328 9 84   Timothy Peck, 61 328 9 84   Amos Mores, 62 328 9 84   John Aultson, 64 328 9 84   Samuel Hanum, 65 328 9 84   Ezra Clark, 47 40