The New Hampshire gazette (Portsmouth [N.H.]), 1798-02-28 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. 2153.]
WEDNESDAY, February 28, 1798.
[9s. pr Annum.
For the NEW-HAMPSHIRE GAZETTE.
MR. MELCHER, IF we consult history with a view of tracing Jacobinism to its origin, we shall soon find ourselves bewildered in the remote and fabulous ages of Antiquity. From sacred writ however, which affords ample light on this subject, it is evident that its founder was that great spirit who—
With ambitious aim, Against the throne and monarchy of God, Raised impious war in Heaven, & battle proud With vain attempt—Him the Almighty Power Hurl'd headlong, flaming from th' ethereal sky, With hideous ruin and combustion, down To bottomless perdition, there to dwell In adamantine chains and penal fire, Who durst defy the Omnipotent to arms.
Thus was he taught the individuality —of sin and punishment. We next find this arch Jacobin haranguing Eve in the garden of Eden*—his speech on this occasion affords an admirable exposition of the doctrines of Liberty and Equality , he insinuates the injustice of the restraint laid on our first parents, impiously gives the lie to God's denunciation of death, as the consequence of disobedience, and tempts Eve to violate the express command of her Creator, by the consideration of becoming as God knowing good and evil . These two great events in the history of Jacobinism prove that actuated by its principles. "Men would be Angels—Angels would be Gods." Fraternization, a principal tenet of Jacobinism was not yet taught. Cain appears to have been eminently skilled in its theory, which he most aptly illustrated by practice, when the blood of his brother Abel cried from the ground. Joseph convicted by a dream of Aristocracy, or rather of Royalism, was by his brethren (disuaded from their prior design of fraternization) banished into the land of Egypt.—Of the prevalence of these principles among the Israelites, after their liberation from bondage in Egypt, and at a time when the Almighty had in a peculiar manner condescended to take them under his own guidance and protection in the wilderness, many examples might be adduced. On the whole, Jacobinism appears not to have made that progress in the world, which might have been expected; many individuals, indeed, and some societies of men have from time to time signalized their zeal in the promotion of the views of their illustrious progenitor—and by their exertions have secured to their names immortality in the annals of infamy. It remained for the close of the 18th century to mature those glorious fruits, the seeds of which had been so early sown. We have seen a great and gallant people oppressed indeed, but whose situation was daily ameliorating under a mild and beneficent King. A people proverbial for their loyalty, gaiety and politeness, transformed on a sudden to a horde of assassins, impatient of the mildest government, ferocious and sanguinary to a degree unexampled in history, delighting in scenes from which wounded humanity recoils with horror.—A country the most fertile in Europe, smiling with plenty, converted into an immense human slaughter house, its soil saturated, and its waters dyed with the blood of its most valuable citizens.—A loose rein given to passions which most deform and disgrace human nature;—Bigotry and Superstition succeeded by Atheism, and ancient Idolatry—all effected by the agency of Jacobinism—and to complete the dark picture, its deluded votaries at length after an eight years struggle in revolutionary forms and tempers, supinely crouching under the rod of a government, the little finger of which is thicker than the loins of the late monarchy. History is not unaptly compared to
*From this circumstance may have arisen the practice of his modern French imitators, of haranguing in the gardens of the Thuilleries, Palais Royal, &c.—Satan's Auditor was a female, the Princess of Paris (tho' in other respects it may be supposed much unlike Eve) were among the first perverted to Jacobinism.
Joseph is also justly suspected of having been a Muscadin i. e. a well dressed man—another horrible crime in the eyes of Jacobins—this suspicion is countenanced by his having worn a coat of many colours.
a Chart, wherein is delineated the rocks, the quicksands, and the shallows on which many a political fabric has been wrecked. Let America then profit from experience, and from the vices and follies of other nations.— Divide et impera is obviously the policy of our enemies, let us at this momentous crisis, convince them of the truth of the motto to the Arms of the United States.
E PLURIBUS UNUM.
Common Sense in Disguise.
BOUGHT WIT.
WHEN young, I was taught only the easy, cheap lessons of plain truth and common sense. Little did I suppose others so much wiser than myself. Before I had bought much knowledge of the world I went to the capital to see fine things, and buy me a new coat. At the first shop I went into, I was shewn several pieces of cloth, by something behind the counter, I unfortunately mistook for a gentleman. I was perplexed a long time with the variety. At last I asked the advice of Mr. Smooth-tongue, and observed, as I was unacquainted with cloths, I would leave it with him to make a choice for me, and set his own price. He answered with a wonderful air of politeness, that "seeing I had reposed so much confidence in him, he would certainly do me justice;" handing me a piece from the shelves, which he declared to be the cheapest and best superfine that could be bought in the place.—Master Pert stepped up at the same time, and exclaimed, O, that's your fort! the same piece your coat was made of, that you wear to the assembly. I did not know; but supposed, Mr. Smooth-tongue was the representative of the town, and that master Pert meant the General Court. In my simple heart, I really thought him a very fine man, paid him his price for my pattern, went home well pleased, said much in his praise, and showed the cloth I had purchased, as a proof of the good usage I met with. My grandma'am, who was a good judge in wares of this kind, examined the pattern and shook her head—My grand father, with an air of disapprobation, exclaimed, "You have bought the rabbit," which, in his dialect, signified, I had "bought wit," or made a hard bargain for myself. My new coat was made, and the first holiday completely undeceived me. I was fully convinced by the observations of better judges and several rents in my coat, that, instead of good superfine, I had purchased rotten second rate, that would scarcely bear its weight on a nail. This was "buying wit." It had never before been suggested to my mind, that a lie behind the counter was a less sin than in the meeting house, or that one used for the purpose of cheating a simple lad in a sea port, was less harmless than if told to the priest of our country parish. Luckless weight! I had not learned my A B C on the refinements of trade. It was my honey moon with the world I was not even suspicious of its honesty or friendship. But I have bought a little wit with my first coat.
ANECDOTES.
A CLERGYMAN being possessed of a negro wench, to whom a man of her complexion paid his addresses; her master having some objections to the poor suitor, the latter took the liberty to ask him a question, viz. "Master, no wai de lebehth commandment be? The parson could not tell. "Well," says the negro, "me will tell what it be—de lebehth commandment is, Best way ebery one mine be own business."
A gentleman having to some of the usual arguments for drinking added this—"You think Sir, drinking drives away care, and makes us forget whatever is disagreeable. Would you not allow a man to drink for that reason?—Johnson—yes Sir, if he sat next you."
Says a Dutchman to a Yankee, as they were walking on the banks of the Hudson, "How de devil did dat man we read of in de bible, make iron swim?" "It was through faith (answered his comrade) and, (rejoined he) if you
can but have faith too, you can make your axe swim." After repeated assurances, says the Dutchman, "Val, I do have faith vonce;" and deliberately tossing it into the water, saw it go to the bottom; when, turning to his laughing companion, he heartily exclaimed, "Dare now, I knew it would sink." "That's the very reason it did (says the Yankee) you did not believe." "Now I see it so plain as day, (says the Dutchman) but it was one d—d Yankee trick."
IN June, 1779, died in England, Mrs. Rofs, celebrated for her beauty and constancy. Having met with opposition in her engagement with Capt. Charles Rofs, she followed him in men's clothes to America: where after such a research and fatigue as scarce any of her sex could have undergone, she found him in the woods lying for dead, with a poisoned wound, after a skirmish with the Indians; when, having previously studied surgery in England, she saved his life by sucking his wound, and nursing him with scarce a covering, for a space of six weeks; during which time she remained undiscovered by him, having dyed her face with lime and bark. The captain recovering, they removed into Philadelphia; where, as soon as she had found a clergyman to join her to him forever, she appeared as herself, the priest accompanying her.
They lived four years in a fondness that could only be interrupted by her declining health, the fatigue she had undergone, and the poison not properly expelled, which she had imbibed from his wound, undermining her constitution; the knowledge he had of it, and piercing regret for having been the occasion, affecting him still more sensibly, he died with a broken heart at John's town.
She lived to return, and implore forgiveness of her family, whom she had distressed so long by their ignorance of her destiny. She died, in consequence of her grief, and affection, at the age of twenty-six.
(This is probably the story on which the interesting novel of Emma Corbett is founded.)
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
FRIDAY, FEB. 5.
MR. Harper said, he was under the necessity of performing a very disagreeable duty; it was a duty, however, which he found himself bound to perform, since no other member had thought proper to undertake it. It must be recollected, he said, by many members of that house that the member from Vermont, whose very extraordinary conduct has been for some time the subject of discussion, yesterday, at the conclusion of his defence, made use of an expression so outrageous, so gross and indecent, that no gentleman yet had been able to repeat it; and if this expression could have been buried in silence, he for one, should have been in favor of its being so buried; but, unfortunately, this could not be the case, it had not only been heard by many of the members, but by many strangers; and he was authorized to say, it was about to appear in one of the public Gazettes of this city. As it could not, therefore, be kept from public view, it was necessary to take such notice of it, as it deserved. Before he made it the subject of a resolution, he should move "that the chairman of the committee of the whole, who heard it, be requested to state precisely, in writing, the expression, and the time, place, and manner in which it was uttered." He did not wish to put the gentleman to the painful task of repeating it; he wished only that he should state it in writing.
Mr. Dent accordingly presented the offensive words to the chair.
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 favor of the resolution.—He was followed by Mr. Nicholas against it.—Messrs. Ouis, Rutledge and Sirgraves 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.
Mr. Morris (of Vermont) only rose to observe that the member from Vermont (Mr. Lyon) in the course of his defence of yesterday, stated that on a former occasion he was insulted by a Senator from Vermont (Mr. Chipman) who gave his testimony before this committee, and that he had chastised that gentleman for it. It is my duty to declare that this assertion is absolutely false—that I have had the honor of the Senator's acquaintance for many years—that he is highly respected in his own country as a gentleman of learning, abilities and integrity—that he was an officer in the American army, saw actual service and acquitted himself like a brave man.
There seemed to be a great desire, very loudly expressed, that the question should be taken before the committee rose; but Mr. Sewall 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.
Just before the committee rose, the chairman informed the committee he had received a letter from Mr. Chipman, of the Senate, in consequence of what had fallen from Mr. Lyon, in his defence of yesterday. The letter was requested to be read, and was as follows:
SIR,
I feel it my duty in this public manner to vindicate myself against an unwarranted attack on my character, by Mr. Lyon, yesterday, in the House of Representatives.—I learn that he there asserted, that he had once chastised me publicly for an affront which I had given him. This assertion of Mr. Lyon's is without foundation—it is false.—Nor can I conjecture to what circumstance Mr. Lyon could have alluded, unless it might be a ludicrous transaction which took place at Westminster in the state of Vermont, in the beginning of the year 1780, the circumstance of which I beg leave to relate:—
The Legislature of Vermont were in session at that place—Mr. Lyon attended as a member, I attended on business.—The house of Representatives requested me, though not a member, to examine and report my opinion concerning certain debts due from persons whose estates had been confiscated—I had made a report accordingly, at some part of which Mr. Lyon took offence. One morning Mr. Lyon called at Mr. Bradley's room, in which I was then doing business. No person was in the room but Mr. Bradley, Mr. Lyon and myself. Mr. Bradley and I sat writing at opposite sides of the table. Mr. Lyon took a seat by the table at the side of Mr. Bradley, and entered into conversation upon the subject of the report above-mentioned.—He soon discovered himself to be somewhat irritated, and in a very rude and pointed manner declared that no man who had a spark of honesty could have reported as I had done. Attacked in this rude manner, I retorted, in a passion, that he was an ignorant Irish puppy . Mr. Lyon rose in a violent passion, grasped at my hair, that was turned back with a comb, which he broke in the grasp—I was at that moment mending a pen—I instantly rose, intending to revenge the insult with the knife in my hand; but Mr. Bradley had Mr. Lyon from behind, round the arms, and drew him back a little, upon which Mr. Lyon, bearing himself in Mr. Bradley's arms, threw his feet upon the table, to kick across. The awkward appearance of Mr. Lyon at this moment, and the grimaces of his countenance provoked me to laugh. I dropped the penknife, seized Mr. Lyon's feet, and, in this manner, with the help of Mr. Bradley, who still kept his hold, carried him across the room, and laid him on his back in a corner.—Mr. Bradley and I returned to our seats, laughing very merrily at the scene. In the mean time Mr. Lyon rose from his corner, flood a
short time in apparent agitation, and without uttering a word. At length, he turned upon his heel, with these expressions—"Damn it, I will not be mad"—forced a laugh, and left the room. Nothing ever after passed between Mr. Lyon and myself upon this subject. I therefore repeat, that Mr. Lyon's assertion is wholly without foundation.
I ask pardon for the trouble I have given the house upon this business, and am, with respect, &c.
NATHANIEL CHIPMAN.
The Chairman of the Committee upon the report of the Committee of Privileges.
MONDAY, Feb. 12.
Mr. Otis presented a petition from the manufacturers of blue sugar paper, in Massachusetts, praying additional duties on imported paper. Committed as usual.
Some other petitions of a local nature, and reports of Committees were attended to; when the House went into a Committee of the whole on the report of the Committee of Privileges, for expelling Mr. Lyon, for gross misconduct.
Gen. Shepard commenced the debate in favour of expelling the Vermont member, and expressed a suitable indignation at the indecency of his conduct; he was followed by Mr. Nicholas, against the report of the Committee.—Mr. N. in a speech which fills up between two and three columns recited his argument, on the circumstance of the House not being in session when the insult was offered.
Mr. Otis said, he was one of those who had a sincere wish that the question before the committee could have been decided without debate, and that the world might not have been informed, that there could exist a difference of opinion in coming to a decision on this question. For his own part, he should have thought, that the standard of propriety and of moral decency—the finger of sentiment, would have pointed out a direct course on this occasion; which if it were not taken, he was convinced, when gentlemen were called to serious reflection upon it, they would see that they had been instrumental in sealing the infamy of the national legislature; for the present question, he said, was not a question between the gentleman from Connecticut and the gentleman from Vermont, but between the House of Representatives and one of its members, who had broken down the barriers of decorum which it had set up for the government—it was a question between the people of the United States, whose sovereignty had been insulted, and the delinquent; between the whole Union and the state of Connecticut, an integral part of that Union, against a war of outrage and decorum, springing from ungovernable passion. Every member was, therefore, called upon to make one common effort to prevent their common infamy.
In considering this question, he would challenge any one to shew so shameful an act of assault and battery committed without provocation, at any former period, or in any country. It would be in vain to look to any of the states of Europe, agitated and convulsed as they are, for such an offence. No man conversant with the history of the Six Nations, or with that of any other Savage Tribe, could point out an instance of courage, so monstrous and so abominable. It was a conduct which could not be suffered in a brothel, or in a den of robbers! Every American heart would grow sick at the recital of it. He did not mean, however, to attempt an aggravation of the offence; but it was an event which had deeply affected him—he had thought of it by day, and when upon his pillow, he had not forgot it.
What was said in defence of the member from Vermont? No attempt had been made to justify his conduct, yet some gentlemen had brought forward circumstances of extenuation. What where they? It was said some provocation was given, and that some allowance ought to be made on account of the situation of the House at the time.
With respect to the provocation,

he would not now enquire whether any provocation could justify the offence which had been committed; but on examination into facts, it would be found that the provocation was on the part of the gentleman from Vermont, as his was an accusation founded in error, whilst that of the gentleman from Connecticut was founded in truth; as the story of the wooden sword, arising from the gentleman from Vermont having been cashiered and disgraced from the army was not denied; whilst what had been said with respect to the representatives from Connecticut, acting contrary to the sense of their constituents, was founded in falsehood. These were charges made aloud, and which the gentleman from Connecticut, if he did not hear them, might have heard as well as not. And shall it be said, that members of that House who quit the comforts of home, the pleasing society of friends, and honorable employments, to serve their country; shall they be told that their motives are venal; that they are actuated by a wish to obtain offices in which they might starve in splendor, and in which they might be abused with impunity? Yet this was said by the gentleman from Vermont; so that the provocation came from him, and instead of seeking here for extenuation, nothing but aggravation was found.
With respect to the situation of the House at the time, gentlemen who have recourse to this circumstance, must sanction one or two positions, viz. that the House was not in session, or that the members of the House were to be protected whilst in certain business, and not in others. With respect to the House not being in session, could it be said, that after it had been regularly formed, it could be dissolved without a vote for the purpose? Should it be said that whilst the Speaker was in his chair, members were safe; but if he stepped out of it, club-law should immediately commence; that they were to be protected on this side and not on that side the bar; that this side was a sanctuary, but that was a bear-garden; that in their seats they were safe, but if they walked out of them they were liable to be cudgelled! Surely not; these mistakes arose from a misunderstanding of the rules under which they acted. They were intended to prevent offences from being committed; and was it not as likely that offences should take place after the Speaker had left his chair, as whilst he was in it? It could hardly be supposed, that whilst the Speaker was in his chair, and every member in his seat, that any violence would happen. It could not be expected, that even the member from Vermont would go and spit in a member's face, or knock him down, whilst he was sitting in his place. It was when members were outside of the bar, when they were not under so much restraint as at other times, that the rules of the House were most liable to be infringed; and members were surely protected as much as if they were in their seats.
The gentleman from Virginia had stated, that a great part of the members were without the bar of the House; but was no respect due to those who were within it? They were certainly not instrumental to the disorder. Would the people have any confidence in their Representatives, if they had nothing to do but to go out of the bar to fight? This was a distinction which he never expected to have been set up, and it certainly arose from a prejudiced view of the subject. He believed the American people had already anticipated their decision, and it could only be in one way that the House and the country could be saved from indelible infamy.
The same gentleman said, that all the members might have left the house. If this had been the case, or if a greater part had left it, he supposed the Speaker would have said there was not a quorum, and the business could not have proceeded. Mr. O. said he did not mean to go into the subject of privileges though. He did not, like the gentleman from Virginia, hate that or any other subject, the discussion of which was properly before them. He thought, however, that the conduct of the member from Vermont in saying that if the members from Connecticut were to vote against a certain motion, which was then the order of the day, they would be turned out of their places, was a direct attempt to control the freedom of debate; the gentleman came reeking from Connecticut, where he said he had ascertained the sentiments of the people, & undertook to intimidate and abuse the members from that state. Was it not clear that such conduct had a tendency to "provoke recrimination"? And if it were admitted, it must be evident they had nothing to expect but disorder, bloodshed and murder. If gentlemen decided reasonably, they must decide that there never could be a greater outrage than this, committed with so
little provocation. The resolution reported by the committee of privileges was a proper one, and to agree to it was the only way in which they could purge the house of its pollution. If this was not done, it could not be expected that this would be the last affair which would take place in that assembly; if not done the people would lose their confidence in their representatives; and if not done, he, for one, should feel the honor of a seat in that house, as greatly diminished and overshadowed—as falling, as declining. Indeed, the only satisfactory mode would be, to send the member from Vermont back to his constituents! which would shew to the world, that a conduct like this could never receive the sanction of the American people. If this mode was not adopted, it would be better for the house to expunge its rules, and trust to their own forbearance for the observance of order, or they had better adjourn and leave the public business undone, to have no rules at all, than to suffer them to be thus violated with impunity.
Mr. Smith (of Maryland) and Mr. Gallatin were opposed to the report; and Mr. Rutledge strongly advocated it.
Mr. R. Williams moved an amendment, instead of the words "he for this disorderly behaviour expelled," and insert, "is highly censurable, and that he be reprimanded by the Speaker in the presence of the House."
After debate, this amendment was negatived 52 to 44.
The resolution amended as proposed by Mr. Harper, for expelling Mr. Lyon, was then taken. The Yeas and Nays were as follows:—
YEAS.—Messrs. Baer, Bartlett, Bayard, Brooks, Bullock, Champlin, Chapman, Cochran, Coit, Craik, Dana, Davis, Dennis, Dent, Evans, A. Foster, D. Foster, J. Freeman, Glenn, Goodrich, Gordon, Grove, Harper, Hartley, Hindman, Holmes, Hosmer, Imlay, Kittera, S. Lyman, Machir, Matthews, Morgan, Morris, Otis, J. Parker, I. Parker, Reed, Rutledge, Schureman, Sewall, Shepherd, Sinnickson, Sitgreaves, N. Smith, Sprague, Thatcher, Thomas, Thompson, Tillinghast, Van Allen, Wadsworth.—52.
NAYS.—Messrs. Baldwin, Bard, Benton, Blount, Brent, Bryan, Cabel, T. Claiborne, W. Claiborne, Clay, Clopton, Dawton, Elmendorf, Findley, Fowler, N. Freeman, Gallatin, Giles, Gillespie, Gregg, Hanna, Harrison, Havens, Jones, Livingston, Locke, Macon, M'Clenaghan, M'Dowell, Milledge, New, Nicholas, Skinner, S. Smith, W. Smith, Sprigg, Stanford, Sumpter, A. Trigg, J. Trigg, Van Cortlandt, Varnum, Venable, R. Williams.—44.
The Speaker then declared the Yeas to be 52, the Nays 44, and as the Constitution requires two thirds of the members present to expel a member, the resolution was not agreed to.
SENATE.
Thursday and Friday, Feb. 7 and 8.
A resolution proposing to give the Clerk of the Senate power to administer an oath to the President of that body, in the trials of impeachment, with impartiality, according to law; and that the President should administer the oath to the members severally.
This course of proceeding was advocated by Messrs. Read, Livermore, Sedgwick, Stockton, Chipman and Ross, on the ground that the constitution gives to the Senate the sole power to try impeachments and prescribes in such cases an oath. It was, therefore, argued that as the constitution had declared an oath should be taken, and that the Senate having the sole power of trying impeachments, they had also the power of prescribing the form of the oath, without the authority of a law for the purpose.
This proceeding was contended against by Messrs. Marshall, Bloodworth, Tazewell and Anderson, who insisted that no oath could be prescribed except by law; that it was a legislative and not a judicial act; and that no case could be adduced where the party, who was to take the oath, prescribed the form of it.
After a motion for postponing and amending the resolution, the question was taken on it, as reported, and passed in the affirmative.—Yeas 22.—Nays 6.
YEAS.—Messrs. Bingham, Brown, Chipman, Foster, Goodhue, Green, Hillhouse, Hobart, Howard, Hunter, Latimer, Livermore, Lloyd, Martin, Paine, Reed, Ross, Sedgwick, Stockton, Tatnal, Tazewell & Tracy.—22.
NAYS.—Messrs. Anderson, Bloodworth, Jackson, Langdon, Marshall and Mason.—6.
MELANCHOLY.
HALIFAX, Jan. 11. Extract of a letter from Wilmot, dated the 2d inst. to a gentleman in this town. "Your friends, Mr. Patrick M'Master
and Mr. William Harris, have lately perished by shipwreck in this neighbourhood. On the Friday following Christmas, a report was bro't of a wreck and some dead bodies being found on the shore of the Bay of Fundy, near the settlement of Dr. Halliburton's land; on which—Messrs. Woodberry, Moreton, and some others crossed over the North Mountain, to the bay shore, where they saw the mast and part of the hull of a small schooner, near the bank—and at some considerable distance, three mutilated dead bodies, which had been hauled up and laid upon the land. One of these unhappy persons proves to be Mr. Patrick M'Master.
"The bodies of the other two persons found near Mr. M'Master, are unknown.—Fearing some of the people near the settlement might have been too attentive in picking up the booty, and remiss in other things, occasioned Mr. Morton, with a large company of young men, to search the Bay shore and the adjacent woods, in doing which, they yesterday found in the woods, at the distance of many miles from the wrecks, and at some distance from each other, 3 bodies frozen to death—one of which, by his pocket book proves to be Mr. Wm Harris—the others unknown."
SAVANNAH, (Georgia) Jan. 26.
On the 13th inst. his Excellency Gov. Jackson, issued a proclamation, offering a reward of one hundred dollars for apprehending and prosecuting to conviction, the person or persons, who, on the night of the 22d of December last, fired on and killed one Indian, and wounded two, while peaceably encamped on the bank of Little River, south west of the river Oconee.
NORFOLK, Feb. 1.
By a gentleman from Richmond we are assured, the loss sustained by burning the Theatre of that city, inclusive of scenery, furniture, and stage apparatus, upon a moderate calculation, amounts to nearly £3000. Mr. West had lately nearly cleared off the incumbrances upon the premises, a very small proportion only remained unpaid. Thus in a few hours was the proprietor deprived of the fruits of many years hard toil and industry: what renders the calamity the more compassionate, not a single shilling's worth of property had been insured.
Part of the new scenery designed for the Norfolk Theatre was, by a dangerous exertion of some of the performers, rescued from the flames; it had been luckily deposited upon the ground floor, which caused its preservation. One fortunate circumstance attended the above accident, otherwise the loss must have been accumulated; the theatre had been many times robbed, and for the security of the wardrobe it had been removed some weeks to Mr. West's dwelling-house, and only such part of it sent to the Theatre as was nightly wanting. This loss to a man in the decline of life, with a numerous family, must be severely felt:—well may he say with Maj. Flaherty, "Fortune is a slippery jade."
HARRISBURGH, Jan. 31.
There never was, since our prison has been built, a greater number of criminals at one time, to disgrace it.—Last week another candidate of Belzebut was added to the infernal crew, charged with setting fire to a dwelling house, near the borders of this county, while the people were gone to meeting.
Last Friday night, an attempt was made to burn the gaol in this town, supposed by some of the criminals; but after the fire had penetrated thro' the floor, and the coals dropping on one confined in the dungeon below, who finding his situation rather critical, was obliged to give the alarm—when the fire was in a short time extinguished.
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 14.
We may soon expect some quiet in the Federal House of Representatives. Several of the Hot-bloods have declared that they would consider a seat in that house a disgrace if Mr. Lyon should be permitted to remain. Mr. Lyon is permitted to remain, we may therefore look forward to at least half a dozen important resignations in that body; for surely those honorable gentlemen will not consent to hold a station which they have declared would be disgraceful in a certain event, which event has taken place.
The business will now go on smoothly; ten days and as many thousand dollars will not again be spent in dictating upon privilege and settling disputes among the members. The representatives will proceed without further interruption, to the business they were sent about, the business of their constituents. [Aurora.]
The general assembly of the state of Maryland have passed a law for making turnpike roads through Bal-
timore and Frederick counties, until they intersect the divisional line between Maryland and Pennsylvania. Three hundred thousand dollars is the sum proposed to be raised by subscription.
A bill has been brought into the general assembly of New-Jersey, for building a bridge over the Delaware, at Trenton.
Nautical Improvements.
The subscriber, late Capt. brig Nancy of this port, having in a voyage to the West-Indies experienced the salutary effects of a patent machine, for ventilating the holds of ships at sea, invented by Mr. Benjamin Wynkoop and constructed in said brig; doth certify, that the said machine, worked by the motion of the vessel at sea, forced a constant current of pure air into the hold, from whence the foul air thereby expelled, that the seamen were remarkable healthy, when the crews of most of the other vessels, at the port where the said brig discharged her cargo, were very sickly and many of them died, no disagreeable smell was perceived from the provisions or bilgewater—the vessel's stores, particularly the liquors, were better preserved and cooler than common, and the paint in the cabin not discoloured as usual in West-India voyages. As a friend to trade and navigation, the subscriber thinks it is his duty, to recommend this machine to general use, and from the facts as stated above, he fully believes it may be the means of preserving the timber of ships, and their perishable cargoes, from the destructive effects of foul air, confined in the holds of ships, and of contributing to the health and comfort of the passengers and seamen on board. HENRY GEDDES.
On Tuesday last Samuel M. Fox, Esq. was unanimously elected president of the bank of Pennsylvania.
His Excellency Robert Linton, Esq. has returned to this city from a tour to the Southward.
Charles Jolly, Esq. is elected a Director of the Bank of Pennsylvania, in the room of William Miller, Esq. resigned.
Mr. Peale has constructed a stove in his Museum, which entirely consumes all the smoke of its fuel, which with very little wood keeps two rooms, that are very large, quite comfortable both day and night.
NEW-YORK, Feb. 10.
Since the establishment of the United Insurance Company, in this city, they have sustained the following losses, viz.
   Dollars.     By Spanish captures, 1600   By British captures, 9937   By sea risks, 111,902   By French captures, 178,766   302,205.  
FEBRUARY 14.
By a gentleman of respectability, and of this city; arrived on Monday, in 18 days from New-Orleans, we have the pleasing information, that the Spanish posts at the Natchez and other places within our Territory, on the river Mississippi, had been at length given up to the American Commissioners, and the troops under direction.
By this happy accommodation of the differences which have subsisted, we may expect the restoration of harmony in that quarter, and that the boundary line will also be run and determined agreeable to treaty, and future alterations be thus also prevented.
On the 17th ult. arrived at Savannah, schr. Harriot, Capt. D. Costa, in 13 days from St. Croix—who informs, that the day previous to his sailing, a gentleman arrived from Cayenne who informed him that the Corvette, which had on board the banished members from France, had captured the vessel he was in from London and four others, all for the islands, and that Pichegru, Barthelemy, and several others, were agreeing with an American Captain to bring them to this country.
BOSTON, Feb. 22.
Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, dated February 14.
"THE controversy in Congress, with Lyon and Griswold, is, I suppose, viewed in Boston, in the same point of light as it is in Philadelphia, that is, a mere party business—some even think that it was intentional in Griswold and his associates, to bring some personal controversy forward, previous to the question of arming , and to try this question through this medium, in order to raise personal resentment before the business of arming was introduced.—Griswold it seems was determined to affront Lyon, which accounts for his repeating the insult, and if Lyon had not resented it, other means, it is probable, would have been used to bring on a party altercation. But after all the investigation, the Griswoldites have
nothing to boast of, they have failed in their object, and have left poor Griswold a spectacle for every man in the gallery to laugh at. Lyon sits like the champion, who has effectually check'd the over-bearing influence, which has too often been used towards him. Mr. Otis will in future be more careful of affronting him. Thatcher is placed in the predicament which he ought long ago to be put in, and Dayton's duplicity is now fully evident, as he has chosen to be considered as an improper person for a speaker, in admitting the house was in sitting, while he permitted such disorders to exist.—Otis's "pulmonary complaint," has subsided since he arrived at Congress, it is true, the poor gentleman has been deprived of his sleep, but he says that it was owing to Lyon's misconduct; he tho't of it on his pillow, but he forgot the indecency of his own conduct, in his base reflections on Mr. Gallatin, in a Boston town-meeting; his behaviour was more reprehensible than Lyon's, as Mr. Lyon appeared face to face with Griswold, but Otis, like a blustering braggadocio, attacked a man at 300 miles distance. The fact is, the whole business is a mere party controversy, any thing you hear in Boston to the contrary notwithstanding."
APPOINTMENTS—BY AUTHORITY.
Thomas Appleton, Esq. of Massachusetts, to be Consul of the United States at Leghorn—vice Philip Felichy, Esq.
Lucius Horatio Stockton, Esq. of New-Jersey, to be Attorney of the United States—vice Abraham Ogden, Esq. deceased.
Last week, Mr. Nathan Bemis, of Spencer, sold to Mr. Moses White, of Watertown, a hog of his own fattening, which weighed 621 pounds.
Capt. Dixey from Marblehead for Bilboa, touched at Corunna, and took in four passengers; on his passage hence to Bilboa, was taken by a French cruiser, because the names of the passengers were not in the roll of equipage.
Of the Murder at Cape-Cod.
We are credibly assured, that the late curious story from Cape Cod, is untrue in its most material parts. A report reached Provincetown, of much the same tenor with the one published here. A very suspicious person was lurking about the town—and (crediting the report) the people thought it best to secure him, which was accordingly done. His conduct after being arrested increased the belief of the story and of his guilt; and he was kept in durance several days. At length satisfactory intelligence being received, that no such frightful affair had happened, as was told, he was discharged.
ALL persons indebted to, or that have any demands against the estate of Capt. BENJAMIN CLARKE, late of Portsmouth, mariner, deceased, are requested to exhibit the same for adjustment to
JOHN MELCHER, Attorney to ELIZABETH CLARKE, Administratrix.
Grocery Store.
FOR SALE AT
LEVERETT'S GROCERY STORE,
No. 1, Bow-Street, Spring-Hill, A general assortment of
W. I. Goods & Groceries, Which he will sell as low as can be purchased in town, consisting of
WEST-India Rum, best French Brandy, do. Holland Gin—Sherry, Lisbon & Malaga Wines.
London Bottled Porter; Molasses; Coffee.
Fresh Hysos, Souchong & Bohea Teas. Philadelphia Loaf Sugar; East-India Brown Sugars; Welsh, Rumney & Faulkner's warranted Chocolate.
Nutmegs per pound or oz. Cloves. Cinnamon, Pepper, Ginger, Allpice.
Fresh Malaga Raisins per cask & retail. Ditto best box Musculet Raisins.
Ditto Currants, shelled and unshelled Almonds.
Fresh superfine Flour.
Ditto Rice, Sweet Oil in flasks.
Basket Salt, Poland Starch, Hair-Powder.
Best English Mustard per lb. do. bottled Mustard, Cake and Bar Soap.
Gun Powder, Shot, dipt & mould Candles, Spanish float & French Indigo.
Elliott's warranted Snuff per keg or retail.
Best Pigtail Tobacco by the roll or retail.
Do. Fig & small Swift ditto, Segars, Cotton & Wool Cards, Pollock Fish. &c. &c.

LATEST Foreign NEWS.
VIA SALEM, Feb. 23.
ON Tuesday last Capt. Townsend arrived here from Bourdeaux. He left that city on the 18th of December, but was detained in the river till the 10th of January, in consequence of an embargo which took place, the 18th of December, on all vessels without excepting even the small coasting craft. This embargo was on account of a frigate's preparing to sail for Guadalupe. While laying in the river, he received letters continually from his friends in the city; by which he was informed, That preparations were making with the utmost diligence for the invasion of England; for which purpose every vessel above 15 tons was put in a state of requisition, and fitting for sea with all speed. That the expedition was to consist of three divisions (as the report said) one to the south, one by the Thames, and the other further north, from Holland; and, that Buonaparte was to command this desperate undertaking.
The American envoys still remained at Paris, in the same awkward situation as our former accounts left them in:—and the American commerce appeared to be safe under the all protecting guardianship of a roll of equipage, but inevitably subjected to condemnation without it.—Capt. Townsend on his passage from hence was boarded by two privateers from Rochelle; and on his passage home by the Medusa frigate, from Hispaniola for Brest; and by all three treated with great kindness; the officers of the Medusa, in particular, inquiring into his wants, offering him every supply in their power. Neither of the three suffered a sailor to enter his vessel.
BRUSSELS, Nov. 23.
Several corps of troops have just arrived along the coasts of maritime Flanders. Cantonnements are to be formed from the Sude-Gand to Dunkirk. Twelve battalions are still expected from the borders of the Rhine. We are assured that part of these troops will be sent into England, where they will be embarked, to be debarked on the first opportunity towards the north of England. It is certain at least that a vast project of attack is prepared against this arrogant power.
NOV. 24.
Another detachment has just been made from the army of Germany of 15,000 men, part of which are to repair to the coast of the Ocean, and part to the environs of Dunkirk. A very great number of troops have passed by Luxembourg, destined for the Army of England, making forced marches. Like numbers have defiled by Aix-la-Chapelle and Liege. A column is now passing along the side of the Meuse to take the road of Givral, Rocroy and Charleville. Besides that 8000 men have passed through Brussels, and we expect 5 or 6000 more this week. These corps follow the road of Gand, Bruges, and Furnes: Dunkirk is the place of their re-assembling.
LONDON, Nov. 25.
The following is an extract of an address inserted in the papers, which will give an idea of the impression made upon some minds by the projected descent of the French:
"To the City of London"
"Englishmen! fathers of families! inhabitants of this respectable city! hearken to the voice of honor and good sense. Behold two hundred thousand Frenchmen, proud of their conquests over the last of our allies, advanced with a rapid stride to within 10 leagues of our coast—a two days march to this opulent city! Remember that the united forces of Europe have not been able to arrest the progress of these republicans! Remember that they have leaped the natural bounds of Empires, the Alps, and Pyrenees, and the sea itself, that favourite element of the English! The genius of our ill-fated island triumphs throughout the vast ocean, but neither this, or our valour, or our superiority in naval tactics, is here the question. Alas! one dark night, one fatal night, with a 6 hours south wind, is sufficient to pour upon our native soil a swarm of furious and desperate enemies. Shall we oppose to them our courage? That is great, without doubt; but even should it triumph, is it nothing to see the English ground, sacred for more than seven ages, drenched with English blood, shed by the hands of foreigners? May heaven preserve us from such a calamity! But our honour, our good sense, dictate to us a speedy and honourable peace with the enemy, while they are yet within their own territory.—Can English honour be confounded with the degraded character of a minister in despair? Shall we expose ourselves to the dangers of an invasion, to the horrors of a civil war, to save this minister from accusation."
"But it is whispered abroad that there exists a schism in the ministerial junta, which has prolonged the war to this moment. It is said, and it is very probable, that the whole cabinet is struck with astonishment and fear—the majority dares not stop; the minority trembles to go forward."
"In the mean time, behold the enemy offering us indirectly an honourable peace, on condition of a change of the ministry—Behold our bank upon the brink of the precipice—Behold, and make your conclusion."
NOVEMBER 28.
The squadron at the Cape of Good Hope, consists of seven sail of the line, seven frigates and several other vessels. This important resting place will never be surrendered to the force, bullying or intrigue of our enemies. The prize-money for capturing the Cape, amounts to 2,500,000l. Every Post Captain will share 10,000l. others in proportion.
Something of Peace.
PARIS, Nov. 21.
If we may credit reports, the Directory with not yet wholly to give up the hope of preventing the enormous expenses and inextricable evils which may result to the two countries from the terrible conflict which is preparing, and have even been contemplating, for some days past, on means for trans-
mitting secretly to the English Minister their last pacific propositions. Considerable bets says one of the Journals, have been opened that we shall have a general peace within two months, without the descent on England taking place.
It is said that the Emperor has advised the Pretender to renounce his qualification of King of France, and resume that of Count de Lille.
The Prince of Peace continues to exercise at Madrid all his powerful influence. He has just recalled the Marquis del Campo, ambassador from Spain to the French Republic, and replaced him by M. the Count de Cabarrus, father of Madame Tallien. Other disgraces, and other promotions, have taken place at Madrid. The credit of France is greater there than ever. It is the Prince of Peace and M. Cabarrus who govern that kingdom.
It appears that the emigration of the Venetians is considerable, and that the treaty of Campo Formio will produce the same consequences to Venice, that the edict of Nantz did to France. The political hatred of the Venetians against the Austrians is equal to the religious hatred that the Roman Catholics vowed against the Huguenot party.
TRANSLATIONS
Of the projected descent on England.
It is very certain that the plan of descent upon England is traced out and determined on. The expedition will take place, in concert with the two powers allied to the republic, the Batavian republic and Spain. One hundred and fifty thousand men are destined to partake of this glory. We recollect what an effect was produced by the fine contrast of the announcement of the continental peace and the arrest of the same day which created the Army of England . This army going to punish at least that machievian government, which conspires at once against the independence of nations, and against the liberty and happiness of the people whom it enslaves or blinds.
NOV. 29.
Gen. Desaix is already at Paris, where he is preparing the organization of the army of England.
Fifty thousand men from the army of Italy are to traverse France, destined to the coasts of the channel and the Ocean. Already 35,000 of them are arrived in le Midi.
Leclerc this day addressed a pathetic harangue to this army:—"It is in conquered London, said he, that you are to proclaim the destruction of the English government, the independence of England, of Scotland, and of Ireland—the liberty of the seas, and the peace of the universe. It is there that you may draw forth the accumulated treasures of the two worlds, and spread them over the surface of the republic."
The King of Prussia died the 26th Brumaire, at 9 in the morning, at his chateau at Potsdam.
It is pretended that the Pope has concluded a treaty of alliance with the Emperor of Russia. This would be under present circumstances, of more danger than support to his Holiness.
Santhonax is arrived at Ferol, after a most tempestuous voyage.
DEC. 6.
It is said, that Paul I. Emperor of Russia, is deposed on account of madness.
Miscellaneous Articles.
VIENNA, Nov. 3.
All the military preparations have ceased; the extra fortifications erected about our city are demolished; and the troops of the Hungary insurrection are sent home.
Dispositions are making to distribute in our new Italian possessions, a great part of the army.
A report is spread, within few days, that there is preparing for the Pretender (who is known here only by his ancient name of Count de Provence) a permanent residence in the castle of Zerbst. It is well known to be the chief place of the house of Catherine II.
NOVEMBER 4.
The Archduke Charles is to reside at Venice in quality of Governor-General of the countries which by the treaty of peace fall to the house of Austria.
The new acquisitions of the house of Austria, by the treaty of Pasteriano, are more considerable than was at first supposed; besides Istria and Dalmatia, and the city of Venice itself, the greatest part of the Terra Firma, with the cities of Padua, Vicenza, Verona, Rovigo, Treviso, Bassano, Belluna, Cadora, Udina, and Palva-Nova, are ceded to him forever.
The inauguration of the Emperor at Venice, will take place on new-year's day.
Loss and Gain to the house of Austria by the late treaty with France.
1. Austria cedes to France the 10 catholic provinces of the Low Countries, containing 353 square miles, 2,550,000 inhabitants, and yielding a net revenue of 3,275,000 German florins, besides paying 3 millions interest on a capital of 95 millions accruing from loans contracted and mortgaged upon the country. The Emperor maintained in the Low Countries, in time of peace, a force of 12,940 men, war establishment 24,855.
2. He cedes Austrian Lombardy and the duchy of Mantua; 192 square miles, 1,144,188 inhabitants, 3,500,000 florins. Besides this revenue, the Lombard Government supported a military peace establishment of 4580 men, and in war 10,398.
3. The Brisgau, 59 square miles, 155,000 inhabitants, 200,000 florins.
Total Cession—784 square miles, 3,849,188 inhabitants, 6,975,000 florins. France cedes to Austria, Venice and its lakes, the Paduan, Polesina, the port of Verona beyond the Adige, the Vicentin, the market town of Treviso, the Bellunese, Istria, in short two thirds of the Venetian possessions in Italy, presenting in extent, population and revenues, 415 3/4 square miles, 1,640,000 inhabitants; and Dalmatia, 124 3/4 square miles, 119,333 inhabitants; 5,000,000 florins.
Recapitulation. Austria cedes 784 square miles, 3,849,188 inhabitants, 1,975,000 florins.
France cedes to Austria, 541 square
miles, 1,759,333 inhabitants, 3,000,000 florins.
Clear loss to Austria, 243 square miles, 2,089,855 inhabitants, 1,975,000 florins.
RICHMOND, (Vir.) Jan. 29.
The following statement will show the public utility of the James River Canal.
During the course of three days, last week, there arrived 36 batteaux containing 2044 barrels of flour, 55 bds. tobacco, and 661 bushels of wheat.
BALTIMORE, Feb. 13.
On Sunday evening arrived here from Wilmington, on a short visit, that persecuted patriot, and warm affector of the civil and religious rights of Mankind, Mr. Archibald Hamilton Rowan.
Of the Natchez.
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 16.
Translated Extract from a Paper entitled Moteur de la Louisiane , printed at New Orleans, dated, Jan. 15, 1798.
"The Governor of this province having received by the last Courier the orders of his Majesty to evacuate the forts of Walnut Hills and Natchez, immediately took proper measures for their execution, having sent off the necessary advices for Natchez."
The above leaves no doubt of the important fact of the evacuation of our posts by the Spanish. The Gazette containing the articles we have seen. [Fenno's Gaz.]
DARING ROBBERY!
SALEM, (Mass.) Feb. 23.
On Wednesday last, while a countryman had left his Sleigh to purchase a few articles in a shop in Essex-Street, in Salem, two well dressed villains without any ceremony, threw their bundles into the Sleigh, and drove off. As the horse was a fast traveller, every attempt to overtake them has been fruitless.
The following is an extract of a letter received by a gentleman in this town; which will show, that different persons are differently impressed by the same circumstances. We give it as handed to us, leaving our readers to make their own conclusions. It is dated,
"BOURDEAUX, DEC. 10.
Thanks to GOD, there is no more talk of a war with America. I have had a letter lately from my friend Debais at Paris, who mentions that the American affairs in Paris do not carry such a bad appearance as they did some time back. He says, that Melliss, Pinckney and Marshall are little regarded by the Directory, but that the other is considered in a more favourable light. Therefore I hope we shall soon have accounts of an amicable termination of all existing differences."
BOSTON, Feb. 25.
GRISWOLD vs. LYON.
A second scene of Pugilism in Congress, and the courage of the Connecticut Hero called in question.
From the New-York Diary.
THE floor of Congress has at length become a Theatre of Legislative Pugilism; and two of the Representatives of the People have relinquished the venerable character of Senator, for the purpose of reviving and assuming the functions and the office of GLADIATOR. Instead of the vain display of words, the ostentation of rhetoric, or even the charms and embellishments of oratory, the Majesty of the People is to be entertained with Spectacles, Shews, and Exhibitions.
Much of the entertainment has, however, been lost by the unfortunate disagreement in the choice of weapons.—The prudent combatant from Connecticut prefers the art of stratagem and surprise, and would rather represent the character of Mendoza than that of Alexander. The Vermonteer, with nerves less delicate, had chosen the more formidable operation of lead and gunpowder; but those of the orderly federalist shrunk from the idea. Peace has, however, been made between the two rivals until the end of the session, at the expiration of which, the public may expect to see the revival of the glorious Age of Chivalry.
Statement of Facts.
Extract of a letter from a Member of Congress to his friend in this city, containing an account of Mr. Griswold's wonderful exploit.
"The papers have informed you of the last disgraceful fracas in Congress. Mr. Lyon when assailed, was sitting in his place, having a long circular desk, which is screwed to the floor, before him, and a similar one behind. He received three strokes before he could rise from his seat; and then could neither stoop to take up his cane which was under his chair, nor advance a single inch, nor retreat, on account of the two desks. He was literally pinned in a box, whilst Mr. Griswold was in the open area before him.—He (Mr. Lyon) had, therefore, to file off edgeways, thro' the narrow passage between the two desks, 'till he could get out. He then attempted to close with his adversary, for he was unarmed.—This Mr. Griswold avoided by retreating, till striking, 'till they come behind the Speaker's chair, when Mr. Lyon seized the tongs, and aimed a blow at Mr. Griswold. They then closed, and fell on the floor. Mr. Griswold lost his cane in the struggle, Mr. Lyon kept the tongs. Then Mr. Mason approached and took the tongs from him, whilst Havens and Elmdendorf pulled off Mr. Griswold by the legs."
"The Speaker was in the chair. It was half past eleven. He never called to order, notwithstanding repeated calls of several members; and although Mr. Gillespie personally applied to him to do it. The same afternoon Mr. Lyon sent a challenge to Mr. Griswold, who was not to be found that day at home. The next morning (yesterday) the bearer of the challenge found Mr. Griswold at breakfast. Mr. Griswold refused to have any private conversation with him. The challenge was then delivered to him, and read aloud before several gentlemen present; Mr. G. refused to give a written answer; but answered verbally "that he would not fight Mr. Lyon." This passed before ten o'clock. The house met yesterday at eleven; and then Otis and Sit-
greaves, in order to protect Griswold from any other marks of resentment, brought in the resolution which was adopted by the house—that neither member should, during the session proceed to any act of violence."
Latest from France.
Capt. Dill arrived here yesterday in 45 days from Havre-de-Grace, has brought dispatches from the American Commissioners in France, to the Government of the United States; which will immediately be sent off by express.
PORTSMOUTH, Feb. 28.
Washington's Birth-Day
WAS celebrated in this town on Thursday last, by a respectable number of citizens, at the New-Hampshire Hotel, where a dinner was provided by Mr. Jacob Walden, after which a number of patriotic songs were sung and the following toasts drank:
 1. George Washington, the Hero & Statesman —may his name always be remembered with gratitude by real Americans.  2. The President of the United States —faithful and independent, may he always enjoy the confidence of his fellow-citizens.  3. The Vice-President and Congress —may they be fully impressed with this truth, that the best expedient to avoid insult and injury is to be prepared to repel it.  4. The Government of the United States —may it be free from foreign influence and internal disorder.  5. Timothy Pickering —the man who always represents the wrongs his country sustains in terms plain and decisive, without subterfuge or dissimulation.  6. Our Ministers at Foreign Courts —may they represent the government and people of the United States, and not a party and themselves.  7. Our Envoys Extraordinary at Paris —may their endeavors to obtain reparation for past injuries and security against future ones be crowned with success.  8. The nations in Europe with whom we are in Treaty —and a speedy end to all evasion in their constructions and fulfilment.  9. The Governor and State of New-Hampshire —may their independent and federal sentiments continue to be as conspicuous as they have already been useful.  10. The Commerce of the United States —may our flag be unfurled in every part of the Globe, and welcomed by all its inhabitants.  11. May all party dissensions be abolished, and our country's good the principle of action pervading every breath.  12. Peace, liberty and good government —may their blessings be felt by all mankind.  13. The Citizens of the United States —may their attachment to the government of their own choice, be equal to the benefits they have received from it.  14. Alexander Hamilton —may his virtues be remembered, when his defamers are forgotten.  15. Agriculture —may plenty crown the labours of the husbandman.  16. The Hobby of America —WASHINGTON, peace and a free trade. 
A bill has passed in the Legislature of Virginia, which goes to destroy all Billiard Tables, &c. by declaring that any person who shall allow the game of Billiards, Pharo, ABC, EO, or any other game of the kind, to be played in any house of which he has possession, shall incur a penalty of one hundred and fifty dollars, and all monies exhibited at such games liable to be seized by the by-standers.
FIRE!
On Tuesday evening the 7th inst. the Meeting-House in Boscawen, was set on fire by some malicious person, and entirely consumed. The incendiary not yet discovered.
Marine List for February 1798.
 Feb. 1, failed sloop Charlotte, Neal, for S. Carolina.  Do. failed sloop Nancies Shaw, for Virginia.  Do. failed schooner Industry, Oram, for Tobago.  Feb. 3, failed brig Abigail, Smith, for S. Carolina.  Feb. 5, arrived brig Olive Branch, Rowe, from St. Bartholomews.  Feb. 9, failed brig Augustus, Langton, for Curacoa.  Feb. 15, failed brig Sterling, Brown, for Curacoa.  Feb. 23, failed brig Maria, Watts, for Laguita.  Do. failed brig Bessey, Turner, for Laguita.  Do. failed ship America, Chadwick, for Surinam.  Feb. 25, arrived schooner Three Friends, Trefethen, from Virginia.  Feb. 27, arrived sloop Driver, Clarke, from Passamaquoddy.  Do. failed brig Fufleer, Chase, for Laguita. 
To-morrow the Post-Office will be removed to Capt. MARTIN FARRY's shop in Buck-Street.
MARRIED —In this town, Capt. WILLIAM APPLETON, to Miss MARY BRIARD.
Mr. THOMAS BECK, to Miss LYDIA JOHNSON, of Greenland.
DIED —At Greenland, the 20th inst. very suddenly, the Widow MARY STELLSON, relict of the late Capt. James Stellson, of this town, in her 78th year.
Samuel Hill
HAS TO LET,
THE northern end of his STORE, lately occupied by Mr. Nath'l White, is a very convenient apartment; being two stories below the street, opening upon the wharf, is well calculated for a wholesale and retail store; it may be entered upon immediately.
ALSO
That STORE at the southern end, now occupied by Mr. Wm. Fitz, which may be entered upon the first of April next.
Feb. 27.
Taken by Execution, AND WILL BE SOLD AT Public Auction,
On Saturday the 17th day of March next, At 12 o'clock, A. M.
THE good ship TWO BROTHERS, and her appurtenances, now lying at Portsmouth Pier, burthen 247 tons, not two years old; sails fast, and flows well; built in a workmanlike manner, and of the best materials: Inventory to be seen at any time.
Also—About 10m. feet Pine
Boards;—10m Red Oak hhd. Staves;—some White Oak Plank and Timber.—Conditions of sales made known at time and place.
EDWARD HART, Dep'y Sheriff. Portsmouth, Feb. 27, 1798.
TO BE LET,
ON REASONABLE TERMS,
THE House lately
occupied by Mr. Ivory Hovey, on Spring-Hill; for further particulars apply to
SAMUEL STORER.
February 27, 1798.
CHARLES HARDY
Informs his friends and the public that he carries on
The Taylors' Business,
At the shop lately occupied by his Father, in Cress-Street;
Where he has for sale,
SUPERFINE, mid-
ling and low priced Broad-Cloths; Cashmeres; Coatings; Swandowns and other velvets; Stocking patterns; Flannels; Baizes; and many other articles in his line.
Portsmouth, Feb. 27, 1798.
Rockingham, ft.
NOTICE is hereby given that JAMES IVERS, of Boffon, in the county of Suffolk, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, merchant, and HANNAH his wife, did on the 21st day of February inst. by John Peirce their attorney, claim an appeal to the Superior Court of Judicature to be holden at Exeter, within and for the county of Rockingham, on the third Tuesday of September next, from a decree of the Judge of the Probate of Wills, &c. for said county, made on the 25th day of December last, granting to Jonathan Warner, of Portsmouth, in said county, Esq. administration of the estate of Barlow Trecotick, late of London, in the Kingdom of Great Britain, Esq. deceased, which said appeal has been allowed by said Judge, and is to be entered for trial at the said term of the said Superior Court.
Attest, WILLIAM PARKER, Register. February 23, 1798.
Rockingham, ft.
NOTICE is hereby given that Bartholomew Downing and Richard Downing Hart, both of Newington, in said county, Administrators of the estate of Richard Downing, late of said Newington, Esq. deceased, intestate, have petitioned the Judge of Probate for said county, representing that the said Richard Downing did, in his life time, viz. on the 27th of November, 1793, by his certain writing of that date, by him signed, covenant to convey to Nicholas Harrison Millar, and Richard Millar, both of Rochester, in the county of Strafford, a lot of land in said Rochester, being number 112 in the third division in said Rochester, John Williams and others, original proprietors; that the said Richard, by death, was prevented from conveying the said land as aforesaid; and therefore praying that they may be impowered to make and execute such conveyance to the said persons contracted with as aforesaid, as the said Richard, if living, would be obliged to make and execute.
And that the said Judge has assigned the 16th day of April next, at the probate office in Exeter, in the said county of Rockingham, for taking the same into consideration, when any persons interested in the said land may object to the granting the prayer of said petitioners.
Attest, Wm. PARKER, Register. February, 21, 1798.
ALL persons having demands on the estate of STEPHEN HARDY, late of Portsmouth, deceased, are requested to exhibit the same; and all persons indebted to said estate are requested to make payment to REBECCA HARDY, Executrix to said estate.
Portsmouth, Feb. 27, 1798.
THE subscribers being appointed commissioners, by the honorable Judge of Probate, for the county of Rockingham, to receive and examine the Claims of the creditors to the estate of Zebulon Doe, late of Newmarket, in said county, Clothier, deceased, represented insolvent; hereby give notice that they will attend that business at the dwelling house of James Hill, Esq. innholder in said Newmarket, on the first Monday of March next, and of the five following months from two to six o'clock, P. M.
ANDREW WIGGIN, jr. } Commissioners. JAMES HILL, Newmarket, Feb. 26, 1798.