The New-Hampshire gazette and general advertiser (Portsmouth [N.H.]), 1788-01-16 00:00:00

THE NEW-HAMPSHIRE AND GENERAL WEDNESDAY, PORTSMOUTH: By JOHN MELCHER,
[VOLUME XXXII.—No. 1636.] GAZETTE, THE ADVERTISER, JANUARY 16, 1788. PRINTED AND PUBLISHED IN MARKET-STREET.
"WHEN ANGRY NATIONS PART IN LEAGUES OF PEACE, LET PRIVATE FEUDS AND CIVIL DISCORDS CEASE."
The following extracts from the Letters of a Gentleman, who visited the Western Country, must, we think, be pleasing to our readers—we have therefore obtained a translation of them from the French, in which language they were originally written and published.
T HE Ohio is the grand Artery of that part of America beyond the mountains;—it is the centre where all the waters meet, which on one side run from the Alleghany mountains and on the other come from the highland in the vicinity of the lakes Erie and Michigan.
"It has been calculated that the region watered by those rivers, &c. comprised between Pittsburgh, and the Mississippi, contains at least 260,000 square miles, equal to 166,920,000 acres:—It is without a doubt the most fertile country—the most diversified, and best watered soil, and that which offers to agriculture and commerce the most abundant and easy resources of all those that the Europeans have heretofore discovered and peopled.
"It was on the 10th of April, at eight o'clock in the morning, that we quitted the key of Pittsburgh, and gave ourselves up to the current of the Ohio—this navigation requires neither effort nor labour, but merely the art of steering well, knowing and avoiding the shoals, &c. and keeping in the middle of the channel—without either sails or oars, we proceeded along at the rate of from three to five miles the hour, according to the disposition of the winds, and the different windings of the river, which almost throughout preserves a width of from two to three hundred fathoms—we were at the beginning of the increase; already its waters had risen nine feet at the key of Pittsburgh, and I never found less than twelve at any time that I found.
"This sweet and tranquil navigation appeared to me like an agreeable dream—every moment presented to me new perspectives, which were incessantly diversified by the appearance of the islands, points, and the windings of the river, without intermission, changed by this singular mixture of shores more or less woody; whence the eye escaped from time to time to observe the great natural meadows which presented themselves, incessantly embellished by promontories of different heights, which for a moment seemed to hide, and then gradually unfolded to the eyes of the navigator the bays and inlets more or less extensive, formed by the creeks and rivulets which fall into the Ohio—what majesty in the mouths of the great rivers which we passed!—their waters seemed to be as vast and as profound as those of the river upon which we floated;—I never before felt myself so much disposed for meditation—my imagination involuntarily leaped into futurity—the absence of which was not afflicting, because it appeared to me nigh—I saw those beautiful shores ornamented with decent houses, covered with harvests and well cultivated fields, on the hills exposed to the north. I saw orchards regularly laid out in squares;—on the others vine-yard plats, plantations of mulberry trees, acacias, &c.—I saw there also, in the inferior lands, the cotton tree, and the sugar maple, the sap of which
had become an object of commerce—I agree, however, that all those banks did not appear to me equally proper for culture—but as they will probably remain covered by their native forests, it must add to the beauty—to the variety of this future spectacle.—What an immense chain of plantations! What a long succession of activity, industry, culture and commerce is offered to the Americans! I consider then the settling of the lands which are watered by this river, as one of the finest conquest that could ever be presented to man—it will be so much the more glorious as it will be legally acquired of the ancient proprietors and will not exact a single drop of blood—It is destined to become the source of force, riches, and the future glory of the United States.
Towards noon on the third day we anchored at the mouth of the Muskingum, in two fathoms and half of water.—In order to give you a weak idea of what I call the Anatomy of the Ohio, I will speak to you of this river, and let you have a glimpse of what will one day be the utility of all its branches:—It falls into the Ohio 172 miles from Pittsburgh, and is 120 fathoms wide—it is deep and navigable for large vessels to 147 miles in the inner part of the lands—its current is moderate and never overflows the banks, which are elevated without being steep—one of its branches approaches all at once the greatest of the sources of the Sciato called the Seccatium, and the river Sandusky—this last falls as you know into the great bay of the same name at the bottom of Lake Erie—it is towards one of the principal branches of the Muskingum that the great savage village of Tuscarawa is built, whence a carriage of two miles leads to the river Cayahoga, deep and rather rapid, the mouth of which in Lake Erie forms an excellent, harbour for ships of 200 tons—this place seems to be designed for a spot for a town, many persons of my acquaintance have already thought of it—all the travellers and hunters have spoken to me with admiration of the fertility of the plains and hills watered by the Muskingum, also of the excellent fountains, salt pits, coal mines, (particularly that of Lamenchicola) of free stones, &c. that they find throughout."
The loves of ARTHO and COLVAL. A FRAGMENT.
ARGUMENT.  Artho, previous to the engagement in which he fell, tenderly relates the sincerity of his affection for Colval, and pathetically laments the distressing embarrassments she would be subjected to, should he be executed in the battle.
Y E fertile hills of ever-pleasing Carnmoor! how oft, on your delightful summits, when grey-eyed evening spread her dusky veil around, have I, hand in hand with the pride of Ardria's fair, breathed the soul of purest love with gentle tales into thy listening ear, O sweetly blooming Colval!
"With winning looks, which betrayed in languishment her soul's affection, how engagingly has she uttered, "Artho, will thy love continue? But why do I doubt? Thou art gentle as a dove—nor wouldst thou leave me as a blasted plant on the plains of Malmor."
Glowing with ecstasy, I pressed the joy of my life to my enamoured bosom, and vowed eternal love. In accents which might charm the too-hasty step of time, her tender soul o'erflowed. With what extatic transports hath every word thrilled through my bosom: not Malmor's swains taste half the bliss, when the rich bowl of nectar proclaims the joys of harvest, can know no greater increase.
"But oh! thou lovely fair, what distressing paleness will o'er spread thy beauteous cheek, should Artho's life be devoted to his country's good! O thou, who art fairer than the new-fallen snow! thou blue-eyed maid of Ardria! I know the memory of Artho will not soon be erased from thy love-sick bosom.—Should he whose soul enjoys no happiness but in thy favor—should thy Artho fall as a blasted oak on Calno's field, though zephyrs play on the mountains—and the showers of the spring descend—the garden of thy delights will be neglected. Alas! I fear my much loved Colval will sink beneath the clouds of woe.—For as the ivy entwines around the oak, and rejoices in its protector—or as the vine is supported by its tendrils—so was my affection, thy joy, O Colval.—Thou wilt exclaim, leave me not, my Artho—thou soul of my life; forsake not thy Colval,—Not Carnmoor's hills with all their deer, not all its woods with every bird of song, nor mossy streams with all their murmuring charms, can give a gleam of joy to Colval, when thou art gone.
"My soul sinks beneath its apprehensions for thee, O Colval—though for himself thy Artho knows not fear, The strife of steel—the rattling din of arms, cannot daunt the steadfast purpose of his soul—his life is devoted to check the invaders who threaten to spoil the beauties of Carnmoor.
"Colval, I fall gloriously among contending warriors, and thou too wilt not feel the oppressive burden of years—nor shall the days, when the sun will be dim on the mountains, bend thy delicate frame; for thou, my Colval, wilt sink, I fear under the wasting blast of affliction. But thou wilt arrive where thy long-loved Artho shall have reposed before thee, and with thee Elysium will yield all its joys."
HARD TIMES.
S UCH times! no money to be "had! taxes high! no business "doing! we shall all be ruined!"
These words struck me from a dark corner in the coffee-room, where I was smoking a legar, I fancied they must have proceeded from some poor miserable wretch. I pictured him habited in ragged attire, woe seated on his brow.
I was deceived. The waiter brought a candle—I saw a spruce young fellow, with an elegant silk waistcoat, satin breeches, superfine coat, silk stockings, set knee-buckles, shoe-buckles a la mode de Londres, a hat cocked with ineffable grace, and a fine bamboo cane.
I was surprised particularly when, on regarding him attentively, I knew him to be a shop-keeper to a friend of mine.
Yes, thought I, the times are hard, and likely to be much more so. But
surely extravagance is a very bad mode of remedying them. While men live beyond their income, it matters little how much business they do. Indeed, the more they do the more liable and likely are they to be involved in difficulties: because the greater will be the appearance of wealth, and consequently the greater temptation to dissipation.
What is the source of this extravagance in dress? Each seeks a fallacious superiority and distinction above his equals, at the expence of solid happiness, stability, and competence. Each desires to be thought in better circumstances than he really is in—and to flatter as a petit maitre, more distinguished by his outside than his furniture within.
Is this superiority obtained? No. While the rage and caprice of fashion deck out the apprentice, the clerk, the shop-boy, in as elegant a style as men in easy circumstances, it is evident all distinction is lost, not only between those of the same rank, but even those of different ranks.
Americans! be wise before it is too late. Repress the mad extravagance of fashion: Let industry, economy, and decorum preside over you, and you will be happy—otherwise the extremity of misery awaits you.
Samuel Place
INFORMS his customers and the public, that he has removed from the house and shop which he lately occupied, to his house in Chaple Street, next door to Capt. Pearne's, where he carries on the
Watch-Maker's business in all its various branches, And has for Sale,
  Crystals,  Pendants,    Dial Plates,  Watch Hands,    Cafe Springs,  Silver Cafe-    Pendent-Bows,  Buttons.    Main Springs,  Chain Hooks,    Pinions,  Pendent Shanks,    Screws,  Inside Chains,    Varges,  3d & Contrite-    Pendulum-Wire  Wheels,    Steel and Brass  Screw-Wheels,    Keys,  Watch-Maker's    Steel and Gilt  Files and    Chains,  Brushes, &c.  
He has in his pos-
session a number of Watches left with him to repair, by persons he has not heard from for several years, he therefore requests those persons to call for their property.
He also requests all
persons who have any demands on him to exhibit their claims for adjustment, and all indebted to him are desired to make immediate payment. Portsmouth, Jan. 8.
A few copies of the
PROPOSED United States Constitution (One of which every family in the United States ought to have) may be had at this Office.

Mr. PRINTER, Enclosed you have the excellent rules which the Chief Justice HALE drew up for his own direction, and which he strictly adhered to.—You will please to publish them in your Paper, as they may be of service to some Judges of the present day should they attentively peruse them.
1. THAT in the administration of justice I am intrusted for God, the King, and the Country; and therefore,
2. That it be done, 1. uprightly, 2. deliberately, 3. resolutely.
3. That I rest not on my own un- derstanding or strength, but implore and rest on the direction and strength of God.
4. That in the execution of jus- tice I carefully lay aside my own passion, and not give way to them however provoked.
5. That I be wholly intent upon the business I am about, remitting all other cares and thoughts as un- seasonable, and as interruptions.
6. That I suffer not myself to be prepossessed with any judgment at all, till the whole business and both parties be heard.
7. That I never engage myself in the beginning of any cause, but reserve myself unprejudiced till the whole be heard.
8. That in business capital, though my nature prompt me to pity; yet to consider there is also a pity due to my country.
9. That I be not too rigid in mat- ters purely conscientious, where all the harm is diversity of judgment.
10. That I be not biased with by compassion to the poor, or favor to the rich, in point of justice.
11. That popular or court ap- plause, or distaste, have no influence in any thing I do in point of distri- bution of justice.
12. Not to be solicitous what men will say or think, so long as I keep myself according to the rules of justice.
13. If in criminals it be a mea- suring cast, to incline to mercy and acquittal.
14. That in criminals that con- sist merely in words, when no more harm ensues, moderation is no in- justice.
15. In criminals of blood, if the fact be evident, severity is justice.
16. To abhor all private solici- tations of what kind soever, and by whomsoever, in matters depending.
17. To charge my servants: 1. Not to interpose in any business whatsoever: 2. Not to take more than their known fees: 3. Not to give any undue precedence to causes: Not to recommend Council.
18. To be short and sparing at meals, that I may be the fitter for business.
He would never receive private addresses or recommendations from the greatest persons in any matter, in which justice was concerned.— One of the first Peers of England went once to his chamber, and told him, that, having a suit in law to be tried before him, he was then to acquaint him with it, that he might the better understand it, when it shall come to be heard in court. Upon which the Lord Chief Baron interrupted him, and said, he did not deal fairly to come to his cham- ber about such affairs, for he never received any information of causes, but in open court, where both par- ties were to be heard alike; and therefore would not suffer him to proceed. Whereupon the noble- man went away, not a little disat- isfied, and complained of it to the King, as a rudeness, which was not to be endured. But his Majesty bid him content himself that he was no worse used; adding, that he verily believed, he would have used himself no better, if he had gone to solicit him in any of his own causes. Another accident happen- ed in one of his circuits, which was somewhat censured as an affectation
of an unreasonable stiffness; but it really flowed from the exactness of the rules which he had laid down for himself. A Gentleman, who had a trial at the assizes, had sent a buck for his table; when Judge Hale therefore heard his name, he asked, if he was not the same per- son who had sent him the venison; and, finding that he was the same, told him, he could not suffer the trial to go on till he had paid him for the buck. The Gentleman said, he never sold his venison, nor had done any thing more by him than he did by every Judge that came that circuit, which was confirmed by several Gentlemen present. But all this would not satisfy the Lord Chief Baron, who had learned, from Solomon, that 'gift perverteth the ways of judgment;' and therefore would not suffer the trial to proceed till he had paid for the present; upon which the Gentleman with- drew the record. At Salisbury, likewise, the Dean and Chapter having, according to the custom, presented him with six sugar-loaves on his circuit he made his servant pay for the sugar before he would try the cause.
Foreign Intelligence,
Extracted from English Papers, to the 12th of November, brought by the Nonpareil, Capt. Cushing, arrived at Boston from London.
Of the Turks and Russians.
WARSAW, October 12. LETTERS from Moldavia con- firm the news, that a Turkish squadron, which sailed from Ocz- akow, attempted the beginning of last month to make a descent on the coast of Russia, between the forts of Kioburne and Jenikale, where the Russians were surprized, and at first obliged to retreat; but their camp being reinforced, they bravely ob- liged the Turks to retreat with a considerable loss, leaving behind them 2000 killed and wounded.
Of France and England.
WHITEHALL, Oct. 30. This morning a messenger arri- ved at the office of the Marquis of Carmarthen, with the following Declaration, Counter & Declaration.
DECLARATION.
The events which have taken place in the Republick of the United Provinces appearing no longer to leave any subject of discussion, and still less of contest, between the two Courts, the undersigned are authorised to ask, whether it is the intention of his Most Christian Ma- jesty to carry into effect the noti- fication made on the 16th of Sep- tember last, by his Most Christian Majesty's Minister Plenipotentiary, which, by announcing that succours would be given in Holland, has occasioned the naval armaments on the part of his Majesty; which armaments have become reciprocal.
If the Court of Versailles is dis- posed to explain itself on this sub- ject, and upon the conduct to be adopted towards the Republick, in a manner conformable to the desire, which has been expressed on both sides, to preserve the good under- standing between the two Courts, and it being also understood, at the same time, that there is no view of hostility towards any quarter, in consequence of what has passed; his majesty, always anxious to con- cur in the friendly sentiment of his Most Christian Majesty, would agree with him, that the armaments, and in general all warlike preparations, should be discontinued on each side, and that the navies of the two na- tions should be again placed upon the footing of the peace establish- ment, as it stood on the first of January of the present year.
Versailles, the 27th of October, 1787. DORSET. WM. E. D. E. N.
COUNTER DECLARATION.
The intention of his Majesty not being, and never having been, to interiere by force in the affairs of the Republick of the United Pro- vinces, the communication made to the Court of London, on the 16th of last month, by Mons. Barthele- my, having had no other object than to announce to that Court an intention, the motives of which no longer exist, especially since the King of Prussia has imparted his re- solution; his Majesty makes no dis- ficulty to declare, that he will not give any effect to the declaration abovementioned; and that he re- tains no hostile view towards any quarter relative to what has passed in Holland. His Majesty, there- fore, being desirous to concur with the sentiments of his Britannick Majesty for the preservation of the good harmony between the two Courts, agrees with pleasure with his Britannick Majesty, that the armaments, and in general all war- like preparations, shall be discon- tinued on each side; and that the navies of the two nations shall be again placed upon the footing of the peace establishment, as it stood on the first of January of the pre- sent year.
Versailles, the 27th Oct. 1787. LE CTE DE MONTMORIN.
IN consequence of the declara- tion and counter declaration ex- changed this day, the undersigned, in the name of their respective sovereigns, agree that the arma- ments, and in general all warlike preparations, shall be discontinued on each side; and that the navies of the two nations shall be again placed upon the footing of the peace establishment as it stood on the first day of January of the present year.
Versailles, Oct. 27, 1787.
DORSET.
WM. E. D. E. N.
LE CTE DE MONTMORIN.
VIENNA, October 14.
According to authentick letters from Petersburg, Prince Potemkin will have 100,000 men under his command, besides 48 or 50,000 from Mount Caucasus and the Cu- ban. This Prince, they say, is at Elizabeth Gorod, in a position pro- per for attacking Oczakow; and that Count Romanzow, who com- mands a body of 50,000 men, was in motion to attack Neisser, having with him 60 pieces of heavy artillery to begin hostilities with.
LONDON, November 10.
Letters from Berlin and Hamburg declare war between Sweden and Russia to be inevitable; they add, that in the interview at Camimeck, it was agreed that Poland should provide 30,000 troops in case of hostilities with the Port, and by way of compensation the Republick should be put in possession of Moldavia.
The loss sustained by the Russian squadron in the Black Sea is now confirmed, and turns to be infinitely more calamitous than was at first imagined. Besides the one ship of the line, of which we have had accounts as falling into the hands of the Turks, six other men of war, large, new, and well equipped ships, perished in the storm. This severe blow has completely disabled the Russians for a time from acting against the Ottoman Port by sea.
Two Commissioners on the part of the Court of France are shortly expected in England, to observe that the reduction of our navy has taken place agreeably to the noti- fication. Mons. de Bouganville is one of the persons named, and two British naval officers are to be sent to the French ports in order to ob- serve a like conduct.
Nov. 8. By the mails which arrived yesterday, we learn, that neither the cities of Amsterdam, Haerlem, or Alkmaer, had con- formed to the proposition made to the Stadtholder by the city of Schoon- hoven, at the Assembly of the States
of Holland and West Friesland, for qualifying his Serene Highness to change the Regencies of the cities.
The Commissioners which the Council of Amsterdam sent to the Hague are returned with a note which had been delivered to them at a conference with the Hereditary Prince Stadtholder, the Princess Royal, and the Duke of Brunswick, by which it has been agreed to name, two Commissioners on the part of the Stadtholder, who with the Commissioners of Regency are empowered to enter into terms of arrangement & accommodation.
Oct. 20. We are credibly in- formed that Spain is preparing for war with no less diligence than France. This may to most, per- haps, appear a circumstance of lit- tle moment, as thinking that too much is not to be apprehended from the exertions of a nation that has suffered itself to be so drubbed, insulted, and humbled by the petty state of Algiers. In that view of the matter, something may be said; but in another, it is a signal not to be altogether neglected. It helps to explain the true designs of the other branch of the house of Bour- bon, whatever evasive answers they chuse to give to our remonstrances; and therefore, as what Spaniards do, having no immediate object of their own to prosecute, must be done by concert, we may naturally enough infer, that our nearest neigh- bours are not so very innocent in their Intentions as they pretend.
From the London GAZETTE.
AMSTERDAM, Oct. 11.
On Tuesday last, the Burgher- masters received the following let- ter, from his Highness the Duke of Brunswick, dated Amsterdam the 9th instant.
"In order to secure the requisition of his Prussian Majesty, and the honour of his arms, of being assured of the disarming the auxiliaries and free corps that shall be found in Amsterdam, I demand of the Burgher- masters and council of the city, for my entire satisfaction of the legal mode of their being disarmed, that the Leyden port or gate be delivered to his Majesty's troops that shall appear there to-morrow at noon; and I pledge myself no one shall come into the city; that the strictest discipline shall be ob- served, and that the troops shall stay no longer after the resolution of the state, with respect to their being disarmed, shall have been put in execution. You see, gentlemen, I ask no more than what the States require, and what other cities such as Dordrecht and Rotterdam, desired of me.
C. G. F. D. OF BRUNSWICK."
In consequence of the above, on Wednesday morning, a deputation of two Burghermasters, and two of his council, waited on his Highness, who was near the Leyden port or gate, in order to settle every thing relative to the present circumstances, and in the afternoon 150 of the Prussian troops came into the city, took possession of that port, and the following capitulation was agreed on.
1st. That the Prussian troops shall take possession of the Leyden gate, 150 men, and two pieces of cannon. 2d. That two squadrons of light horse should be quartered at Overtoom. 3d. That none of the king's troops come into the city, without permission of the magis- trates. 4th. That the Burgher- masters and Council of the city shall take the necessary steps for the securing of the sluices at Haerlem and Muiden posts. 5th. That the Burghermasters and Council shall give the Duke of Brunswick a daily account how far the resolutions of the city are brought forward. 6th. The Mons. de Haaren, as commi- ssioner on behalf of the Duke of Brunswick, shall be instructed to what extent they have proceeded in disarming the people.

SAVANNAH, (Georgia) Nov. 22. When Mr. Jay was at Madrid, he had a commission from Congress, to offer an exclusive navigation of the Mississippi for fifty years, provided Spain would vigorously assist America; that court took so much time to consider this proposition that in the interim Lord Cornwallis surrendered: A victory so happily fortunate to America gave a new turn to her politics, and Congress therefore immediately dispatched a messenger to their ambassador, signifying their pleasure that the matter should be suspended.
MIDDLETON, Dec. 31. The following is the exact number of horses, and cattle cleared out at the Naval Office in this city, since the first of March last, for the West India Islands: viz.
Horses, 1454. Oxen, 700. Cows, 23.
Total, 2177.
BOSTON, January 11. Proceedings of Convention. Yesterday the Honorable CONVENTION assembled at the State House in this town, agreeable to appointment, for the purpose of assenting to and ratifying the Federal CONSTITUTION. The following is a journal of their proceedings.
IN CONVENTION, Jan. 9, 1787. ON motion, Ordered, That the Hon. Nathaniel Gorham, Esq., John Caines, Esq., Dr. Charles Jarvis, Hon. Tristram Dalton, Esq., Hon. Walter Spooner, Esq., Hon. Caleb Davis, Esq. and Hon. John Taylor, Esq. be a Committee to receive the returns of the several towns.
Ordered, That a Committee of five persons be appointed, to collect, count and sort the votes for a Secretary.
The Hon. Caleb Davis, Tristram Dalton, Aaron Wood, Eleazer Brooks and Charles Turner, Esquires, were appointed on the said Committee.
The Convention then proceeded to the choice of a Secretary by ballot, and the votes being taken, it appeared that GEORGE RICHARDS MINOT, Esq. was chosen, who accepted of the choice, and was duly sworn, to qualify him for exercising the duties of that office.
Voted, That Mr. JACOB KUHN, the Messenger of the General Court, be appointed Messenger to this Convention.
Voted, That 4 o'clock, P. M. be assigned, for coming to the choice of a President.
Voted, That five Monitors be chosen. The following gentlemen were then elected, viz.—The Hon. Noah Goodman, Esq., Mr. Phanuel Bishop.—Cooley, Hon. Azor Orne, Esq. and Mr. Thomas Davis.
Voted, That a Committee of seven be appointed, to prepare rules and orders for the regulation of the Convention.—The Hon. Nathaniel Gorham, Esq., Dr. Charles Jarvis, Hon. John Taylor, Esq., Mr. William Wedgery, Hon. Tristram Dalton, Esq., Hon. Theodore Sedgwick, Esq. and James Bowdoin, jun. Esq. were then appointed on the said Committee.
Ordered, That the Committee who were appointed to receive the returns of the members, be instructed to examine them, and report.
Adjourned to 4 o'clock, P. M.
A F T E R N O O N.
Met according to adjournment.
The Convention proceeded to the choice of a President by ballot, according to assignment, and a Committee of five being appointed to collect, count and sort the votes, it appeared that his Excellency JOHN HANCOCK, Esquire, was chosen.
Voted, That the Convention proceeded to the choice of a Vice-President.
The Convention then proceeded to the choice of a Vice-President accordingly, by ballot, and a Committee being appointed to collect, count, and sort the votes, it appeared that the Hon. WILLIAM CUSHING, Esq. was chosen.
Voted, That the Vice-President be requested to take the Chair, who took the Chair accordingly.
Voted, That a Committee of five be appointed to wait upon His Excellency John Hancock, Esq. and acquaint him that this Convention have made choice of him for their President, and to request his Excellency's acceptance of that appointment. Mr. Russell, Dr. Holten, Mr. Sedgwick, Mr. Turner, and Mr. Dalton, were then appointed on the said Committee.
Voted, That the Convention will attend morning prayers daily, and that the gentlemen of the clergy in Boston, of every denomination, be requested to officiate in turn.
The members from Boston, were appointed to wait upon them, and acquaint them thereof.
A vote of the Church in Brattle-Street, Boston, offering the use of their Meeting to the Convention, having been communicated, Voted, That a Committee of nine be appointed, to view the accommodations in the said Meeting House, and report.
Mr. Sedgwick, Mr. Lincoln, Dr. Taylor, Gen. Brooks, of Lincoln, Dr. Jarvis, Dr. Holten, Mr. Strong, Mr. Nason, and Mr. Thatcher, were then appointed on said Committee.
Adjourned to Thursday morning, ten o'clock.
Many people look upon the adoption of the new constitution, as the millennium of virtue and wealth; indeed its auspicious dawn augurs much, but it should be remembered, that much depends on our own conduct.
It is much regretted, says a correspondent, that his Excellency JOHN HANCOCK, Esquire, our worthy chief magistrate, is at present detained from attending the convention on account of sickness; the arguments of a man who presided in the councils of America at the most important era of our affairs, and whose conduct as a patriot, a republican, and a friend to the rights of human nature, has shone so conspicuous through every stage of the late revolution, would no doubt have great weight at this time, as a matter the most interesting to our country is in debate. It is, however, pleasing to announce from good authority, that the sentiments of his excellency are truly federal; and it is sincerely hoped that he will soon be able to attend the convention, and in that august assembly demonstrate his approba-
tion of that constitution lately formed by the grand federal convention—a constitution which is the boast of every TRUE Republican.
Saturday last, was escorted to this town, the famous Captain LUKE DAY, a principal insurgent during the late commotions in this state, and for whom a reward of 100l. was offered for apprehending him, by government. He was taken by surprise at an Inn in Westmoreland, in Hampshire state, about sun set on the first inst. by Major Luther Emes, Lieut. Isaac Griffith, and Mr. Elijah Dunbar.—He had not crossed Connecticut Ferry above ten minutes before he was a prisoner. His seat of residence was in Vermont state.
The robber proves to be one Ezekiel Nutting, who was apprehended and committed to the jail in this town on Friday last.
PORTSMOUTH, Jan. 16.
On Monday last agreeably to notification, the inhabitants of this metropolis, assembled in the State House, and proceeded to the choice of three persons to represent them in the ensuing Convention, appointed by the General Court of this state to meet at Exeter, on the second Wednesday in February next, to decide upon the important question, Whether this state will ADOPT or REJECT the New Constitution? when the Hon. JOHN LANGDON,
JOHN PICKERING, and, PEIRCE LONG, Esquires, were elected for that purpose.
The town of Nottingham, we are informed, have made choice of the Hon. THOMAS BARTELET, Esquire, as their representative to the ensuing Convention.
Last Wednesday was ordained to the pastoral charge of the church of Christ in Newington, the Rev. JOSEPH LANGDON.
The public solemnity was opened with prayer, by the Rev. Joseph Buckminster. The Rev. Samuel Haven, D. D. delivered a sermon suited to the occasion, from Ephesians ii: 21. The Rev. Benjamin Stevens, D. D. made the ordaining prayer; but excusing himself from delivering the charge, having been so frequently called to it in this vicinity, that part was performed by the Rev. Samuel MacClintock; the Rev. Alpheus Spring gave the right hand of fellowship; and the Rev. Huntington Porter made the concluding prayer. The whole was conducted with seriousness and propriety, before a large number of spectators, who did themselves honour by the decency of their deportment on the solemn occasion.
Next Wednesday, agreeably to adjournment in December last, the General Court are to convene at the State House in this town for the dispatch of business.
A gentleman from New York, observed, at the public announcement of the adoption of the proposed Federal government by that state, that two things appeared strange to him—first that the ratification should be proclaimed before it was signed, that is, before it existed; for any member between the vote and the signing might have changed his mind, and refused to subscribe the instrument; and, secondly, that the President, council, and all the officers of state should engage in a public rejoicing about an embryo, —a thing which may never exist.
He added that it reminded him of an old humourist, who kept the birth day of all his children, born, or to be born, on the anniversary of his eldest son's birth, observing, that if any more birth-days should happen, why he had saved money by the consolidation,—if not—why he had been merry, for nothing.
A gentleman was passing by the place where a group of convicts was at work, and overheard the following conversation.
1st. Man. I can never agree to it—for I am confident, it will destroy the liberties of the people.
2d. Man. My great motive for supporting it, is, that it will enable us to be honest, and pay our debts.
3d. Man. Ay, but I will oppose it pell mell, for it takes away that laudanum of our liberties, a free press.
4th Man. Peace! I say it ought to be adopted, and it shall too, for it will give strength and energy to public officers.
On enquiry, the gentleman found the subject of conversation to be the proposed constitution, that the first man was a convict in chains, the second a debtor just released by the Insolvent act, the third a printer's devil, and the fourth a constable, who superintended the convicts.
Died] At Dover, Mrs. Lydia Russell, formerly of Boston; —a child of Samuel Bowles; a child of Winthrop Bennet, of this town.
NAVAL OFFICE. PORT OF PISCATAQUA, Jan. 16, 1788.
ENTERED, FROM. Brig Olive, Smallcorn, Tobago. CLEARED, FOR. Brig Hero, Edwards, Ireland. —3 Brothers, Sherburne, W. Indies.
WEEKLY ALMANACK For PORTSMOUTH.—Lat. 43d 5 N.     Ja. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. Mo. Tu. We. Th. Fr. Sa. Su. Calendar.     16 7 24 5 7 23 5 7 22 5 7 21 5 7 20 5 7 19 5 7 18 5 mon. 4 58 5 51 6 48 7 49 8 52 ☉ fl. rom.   17 7 23 5 1 3 5 51 6 48 7 49 8 52 High tides.   18 7 22 5 2 11 6 48 7 49 8 52 High tides.   19 7 21 5 3 19 7 49 8 52 High tides.   20 7 20 5 4 27 8 52 High tides.   21 7 19 5 5 35 9 55 High tides.   22 7 18 5 6 43 10 58 Moderate.  
Our LIBERTY-TREE: A Federal SONG.
IN a chariot of light, from the regions of day, The Goddess of Liberty came, Ten thousand celestials directed her way, And hither conducted the dame: A fair budding branch from the gardens above, Where millions with millions agree, She brought in her hand as a pledge of her love, And the plant she nam'd Liberty-tree. This blooming exotick stuck deep in the ground, Like a native it flourish'd and bore, The fame of its fruits drew the nations around, To seek out this peaceable shore. But, Americans, hear—'tis a tale most prophane, How a wicked assemblage of power— Riot, Discord and Britain are uniting amain, To cut down this garden of ours. Then from east to the west let our patriots convene, Determin'd their country to free, Our Constitution confirm—it firmly shall fix, Its idol—our Liberty Tree.
** Advertisements, &c. omitted this week shall be duly noticed in our next.

Parnassian Spring.
Venus having lost Cupid, makes the following complaint.
YE swains if in the grove you set A youth of form divine, To me the treach'rous prize convey, The wanderer is mine.  By certain marks, with ease you'll trace A god from thousands known. He bears the semblance, in his face, Of virtues not his own.  Small are his hands, but far they fling The ever glowing dart, Light is the shaft, but thrown by him, It pierces to the heart.  Swift from his golden bow it flies, With irresistible might, To PLATO's flames it added heat, And burnt the god of light,  Beware ye swains, his treach'rous smiles, If joyous he appears. If (when a captive) he should weep, Beware his treach'rous tears.  His rosy lips refuse to kiss, His offer'd darts despise. His darts are fire, and in his lips Destructive poison lies.  To me (but oh! with caution) bear The wand'rer from the grove, 'Tis only given to beauty's queen, To rule the god of love.
THE commissioners appointed to examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of the Honorable JOHN WENTWORTH, late of Dover, in the county of Strafford, deceased, represented insolvent, give notice that a further time of six months from the 22d of November last, being allowed for the creditors to exhibit their claims; — they will attend for that purpose on the second Tuesday of this, and the five months next ensuing, from 2 to 6 o'clock in the afternoon, at the late dwelling house of said deceased in Dover aforesaid.  MOSES WINGATE, } Commissioners. WILLIAM KING, December 3.
THE commissioners appointed by the hon. Judge of Probate for the county of Strafford, to receive and examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of Meshech Drew, late of Madbury, in the county Strafford, aforesaid, husbandman, deceased; do hereby give notice, that the hon. Judge of Probate hath been pleased to grant the further time of six months to said creditors for bringing in their claims and proving their debts, from the 9th day of October, 1787; therefore said commissioners will attend for said purpose at the house of Silas Drew, innholder, in Barrington, on the last Monday of this and the four following months, from 2 to 7 o'clock, in the afternoon.  Madbury, Dec. 14.
State of New-Hampshire.
WE the subscribers being appointed commissioners by the hon. Charles J. Morton, Esq. judge of probate, &c. for the county of Grafton, to receive and examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of Col. Timothy Bedel, late of Haverhill, deceased, and six months being allowed for that business, hereby give notice that we will attend the same on the last Monday in December next, and on the first Monday of the five following months, from 10 o'clock, A. M. to 2 o'clock, P. M. at the house lately occupied by Amos Fisk, innholder in said Haverhill.
ASA PORTER, JAMES WOODWARD, ANDREW CROCKER. Haverhill, November 15.
THE subscribers appointed commissioners to receive and examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of JACOB TREADWELL, late of Portsmouth, merchant, deceased, represented insolvent, give notice that they will attend to receive said claims at the Post Office in this town, on the first Tuesday of this and the five ensuing months, from six to nine o'clock, P. M.
JOHN PARKER, Dec. 5. PIERCE LONG, JEREMIAH LIBBEY.
THE subscribers being appointed commissioners to receive and examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of DANIEL POWLE, late of Portsmouth, Esq. deceased, represented insolvent; — give notice that we shall attend for said purpose, at the Post Office, in Portsmouth, on the last Monday of this, and the five following months, from 3 to 6 o'clock, P. M.
JOSHUA BRACKET, JOHN PARKER, JEREMIAH LIBBEY. Portsmouth, Aug. 20, 1787.
THE Subscribers appointed Commissioners to receive and examine the Claims of the several Creditors to the Estate of JOHN MOFFATT, late of Portsmouth, Esq. deceased, represented insolvent, give notice that they will attend to receive said claims on the last Monday of this and the five ensuing months, from six to nine o'clock, P. M. at the dwelling-house of Col. William Brewster, in this town.
WOODBURY LANGDON, DANIEL RINDGE, JOHN PARKER. Portsmouth, Dec. 20.
THE subscribers appointed commissioners to receive and examine the claims of the several creditors to the estate of Mr. Noah Parker, late of Portsmouth, deceased, represented insolvent, hereby give notice that they shall attend for that purpose at the Post Office, on the second Tuesday of this and the five following months, from 5 to 8 o'clock, P. M.
JOHN FURNALD, JOHN GODDARD, DANIEL R. ROGERS. Portsmouth, Dec. 5, 1787.
TAKE NOTICE!  THAT I Walter Bryant, of Newmarket, in the county of Rockingham, and State of New-Hampshire, administrator to the estate of Walter Bryant, jr. and Jeremy Bryant, Esq's. both late of Newmarket, deceased, find among their papers above forty deeds of land in the towns of Tamworth, Eaton, Burton and Chatham, not recorded, and many of them not acknowledged, and being persuaded that many of them were sold by said deceaseds in their life time, and many sold at vendue for taxes, some of which I have redeemed, and if I do not soon hear from the purchasers, I shall sell them; therefore I give this public notice, that all purchasers may have the original proprietors deeds authenticated, least they be lost.—The subscriber hath upward of a THOUSAND DOLLARS in Loan-Office Notes with considerable interest due thereon, belonging to the estate that was said Walter's, deceased, which will be sold at public vendue on Tuesday the 22d day of January, 1788, at one of the clock, P. M. at the dwelling house of the subscriber, in Newmarket, aforesaid.
WALTER BRYENT.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of Col. Timothy Bedel, late of Haverhill, in the county of Grafton, and State of New-Hampshire, deceased, intestate, are hereby requested to make immediate payment to the subscriber, MOODY BEDEL, Administrator. November 26.
State of New Hampshire.
NOTICE is hereby given to the non resident proprietors and owners of land in the township of Middletown, who have not paid their taxes for the year 1782, that unless they pay the same to me the subscriber, on or before the 24th day of January next, so much of their land as will pay the same, together with incidental charges, will be sold at public vendue at 10 o'clock, A. M. on said day, at the dwelling house of John Kenniston, in said town, unless prevented by previous payment.
   No. Qty s. d.    Stephen Roberts 46 26 2 1  Samuel Varney 49 25 2 1  Benjamin Evans 78 30 2 6  Andrew Marshall 39 100 8 3  Thomas Bickford 73 100 8 3  Joseph Conner 63 20 1 8  Law lot 61 100 8 3  George Hanson 76 100 8 3  Andrew Horn 64 26 2 1  T. Wallingford, Esq. 43 60 5 0  Bedfield Plummer 75 100 8 3  Benjamin Roberts 38 100 8 3  Benja. Wentworth 99 100 8 3  Richard Goodwin 83 100 3 3  Benjamin Mason 94 26 2 2  Thomas Varney 89 100 8 3  John Kelley 20 100 8 3  Nathaniel Austin 10 20 1 8  Jotham Odiorne 74 100 8 3  Samuel Clemments 80 100 8 3  JOHN KENNISTON, Constable.  Middletown, Dec. 12.  
State of New-Hampshire.
NOTICE is hereby given to the non-resident proprietors and owners of land in Middletown, who are delinquent in paying their taxes for the year 1784, unless they pay the same to me the subscriber, on or before Tuesday the 22d day of January next, so much of their land as will pay said taxes with incidental charges, will be sold on said day at my dwelling house in Middletown, at public vendue, unless prevented by previous payment.
   No. Qty s. d.    Stephen Roberts 46 50 0 9  John Tasker 59 50 1 6  Nathaniel Varney 77 50 0 9  Benjamin Evans 78 100 1 6  Peter Cook 91 50 1 6  Alexander Hodgdon 45 50 6  John Peal 13 100 3  George Hanson 76 100 1 6  Andrew Horn 64 50 0 9  Nathaniel Young 47 100 2 3  Tho's Wallingford 43 60 1 6  Bedford Plummer 75 100 2 3  Eph'm Wentworth 18 100 1 6  Benjamin Roberts 38 100 2 3  Timothy Roberts 35 100 1 6  Benj. Wentworth 19 100 2 3  Jonathan Gage 37 100 3  Thomas Varney 89 100 1 6  John Kelley 20 100 2 3  Nathaniel Austin 10 50 1 6  Richard Philpott 14 100 2 3  Zebulon Davis 41 44 7 6  Capt. John Collamay 41 75 5 3  Samuel Clemments 80 100 2 3  Benning Wentworth 99 100 2 3  Samuel Varney 49 50 8 3  Law Lott 31 100 3 9  ISAAC STANTON, Constable.  Middletown, Dec. 18, 1787.  
BLANKS of all sorts for sale at this Office, at the lowest Boston prices.
State of New-Hampshire.
NOTICE is hereby given to the non-resident proprietors and owners of land in Middletown, who are delinquent in paying their taxes for the year 1785, that unless they pay the same to me the subscriber, on or before Wednesday the 23d day of January next, so much of their land as will pay the same, together with incidental charges will be sold at public vendue at my house in Middletown, on said day, unless prevented by previous payment.
   No. Qty s. d.    Benjamin Roberts 38 100 2 6  Timothy Roberts 35 100 1 8  Benj. Wentworth 19 100 2 6  Thomas Varney 89 100 1 8  John Kelley 20 100 2 6  Nathaniel Austin 10 50 1 8  Richard Philpott 14 100 2 6  Zebulon Davis 41 50 8 4  Capt. J. Collamay 41 50 6 8  James Clements 80 100 2 6  Benning Wentworth 99 100 3 4  Stephen Roberts 46 50 0 10  John Tasker 59 50 1 8  Nathaniel Varney 77 50 0 10  Samuel Varney 49 100 6 8  Benjamin Evans 78 100 1 8  George Hanson 76 100 1 8  Andrew Horn 64 50 0 10  Nathaniel Young 47 100 2 6  Tho's Wallingford 43 60 1 8  Bedfield Plummer 75 100 2 6  Eph'm Wentworth 18 100 1 8  SOLOMON PERKINS, Constable.  Middletown, Dec. 4th. 1787.  
State of New-Hampshire.
PUBLIC notice is hereby given, that a memorial was presented to the General Court at their session in September last, by the Masonian proprietors representing that they were aggrieved by a certain act passed by the General Court at their session in June last, entitled, "An act to quiet all bonafide purchasers of lands between a line crossing over lands upon a straight course, from the north east extremity of the east line of Mason's patent, being sixty miles from the sea on a straight line, and running to the extremity of the western side line of said patent sixty miles distance from the sea, on a straight line and the curve line so called, claimed by the persons calling themselves the Masonian proprietors, as the head line of said patent." — That said act would have an operation wholly against the intention of the legislature, that it was first proposed by the heirs of Samuel Allen, Esq. and their assigns, and while it promotes their interests, abridges the rights of the memorialists as they conceive—that contrary to the good intention with which it was made, it would (should it operate at all) materially affect the title of the memorialists to certain lands, and law trials upon said title—take away their right of possession—quiet and encourage trespassers upon those lands.
Whereupon the memorialists prayed that said act might be reconsidered and repealed.
Whereupon the General Court at their session in December instant, ordered that the memorialists be heard thereon, before them on the second Wednesday of their next session, and that in the mean time they cause the substance of the memorial and order of Court thereon to be published three weeks successively in one of the New-Hampshire newspapers, prior to the sitting of said Court, that any person or persons may then appear and shew cause if any they have, why the prayer thereof should not be granted.
Attest, JOSEPH PEARSON, Sec'y. Portsmouth, Dec. 17, 1787.
SUBSCRIPTIONS for this Paper, at Two Shillings and Three Pence per quarter, exclusive of postage, are taken in by the Publisher, at his Printing-Office in Market-Street, Portsmouth; where Advertisements are received, the favours of Correspondents carefully attended to, and Printing performed reasonably.