The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1801-10-21 00:00:00

The National Intelligencer,
AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
Vol. I. WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, NEW-JERSEY AVENUE, NEAR THE CAPITOL.
No. CLII.
FIVE DOLLS. PER ANN.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1801.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
FROM THE AURORA.
CIRCUIT COURT OF PENNSYLVANIA.
LEVI HOLLINSWORTH v. WM. DUANE.
This was an action at law, laid to recover damages to the amount of 5000 dollars, upon a matter of libel charged in the following article which was published in the Aurora of the 9th January, 1800, as follows:—
Mr. Brown's Federalism reminds us of Levi Hollinsworth's, who was so much distinguished in the late election at the head of the Federal committee—Levi had a ship trading contrary to law, (not in the slave trade) he went and informed against himself, and so saved half to a certainty that being the reward to the informer, the vessel and cargo were then sold by the marshal, but a friend of Levi's threatened to throw a man who bid for her into the river, if he bid against Levi, and so he bought her in cheap also—and this was good federalism!
The cargo was sold cheap likewise—it is surprising that Levi did not use his interest to have the late marshal retained in office—the services of both entitled them to the good will of each other.
It is proper to observe, here, that this was the action which, being laid in the Federal Court, brought on the question of citizenship, which was argued at a former court, and decided upon against the birth-right of the Editor, and which produced the discussion, in consequence of which, the court imprisoned the Editor for a month, on the ground of contempt.
The cause was appointed for trial on Thursday, and Mr. Hollinsworth appeared with Messrs. Ingersol, E. Tilghman, and Lewis, as his counsel.
The defendant employed no counsel, for the reasons stated in his arguments, below.
Mr. E. Tilghman disanted briefly on the publication, which he stated to be grossly malicious and false, and calculated to injure the reputation of Mr. Hollinsworth, whose character he stated, to be distinguished for exemplary piety and attachment to the government and laws of his country.
That he had no doubt the jury would consider it was their duty to do justice to the character of his client, by exemplary damages.
The Defendant addressed the court. He appeared without counsel, and trusted to the liberality of the court to believe that it was not from any want of respect to them, nor from any want of confidence in the gentlemen who had hitherto afforded him their aid as lawyers; neither was it from any confidence in his own ability to lay the matter before the court and jury, as it might be done, by professional men, but from motives particularly attached to the case, and his own situation.
This prosecution he considered as being wholly from its commencement, to the present moment a business of party—it commenced at a time of party men, and is at this moment, carried on in the inveteracy of party spirit. Had any other man, in a less conspicuous situation, fallen into the same error which produced the article charged as a libel, there is no reason to believe a prosecution would ever have been commenced; and even in moderate times of party it would seem the immediate correction of the mistake—for it was wholly the mistake of a name, and not a falsehood in fact—the correction of the mistake would have screened any man otherwise circumstanced, from the successive persecutions which have been carried on, on this account. Satisfied therefore, of the matter being wholly of a party nature, and persuaded that it was so conducted, he had thought it more consistent to appear without counsel, especially as the expenses attendant on so many prosecutions must be naturally heavy; but particularly as he did not wish to subject any gentleman to such unworthy treatment as had been shown by one of the opposing counsel to the gentleman who had heretofore honored him with their professional aid.
Considering it therefore as wholly a matter of party the would occupy as little of the time of the court and jury as possible. He would call upon the jury to recollect the time when this matter of prosecution originated, when party passions ran high, when the vibration of public opinion was such as to excite alarm on one side, and hope on the other; when the conduct of men in power was investigated with a bold hand, and the characters of their competitors subjected to every species of ignominy and reproach; then it was that this cause of action occurred. But let any honest man look back for a moment to the agitations which marked that unhappy period—and let them compare that time with the present, the violence, the turbulence, the consumption of that time, with the peace, tranquility, and security of the present. How are men to estimate the character of this prosecution as a matter of party or, of fact—are the passions of that day to be called up in judgment now—and is an error in information rectified without solicitation, and wholly from a sense of right, to be treated in this hour as a subject criminal and injurious?
Indeed, this matter will appear from its character, even more remote than the date of the publication, its origin may be traced to the election of governor for this commonwealth—the election of governor M c Kean, to which this article makes an express allusion. In that election the plaintiff was a conspicuous character opposed to the governor. And the defendant was the medium through whom the public was informed of all subjects relative to politics. The plaintiff was chairman of a committee who were not very delicate about personal character—the chairman of that committee was under serious obligations to the governor; and it was conceived that he repaid these obligations very badly. The defendant was possessed of these facts, from the most certain and respectable authority, as to the obligations and ingratitude. And in that state of knowledge the information was communicated to him, that the brigantine Express, the property of Mr. Hollinsworth, had been engaged in an illegal commerce, that he had taken the precaution to inform against his own vessel, and that being condemned, a collusive sale took place of the vessel and cargo; that several persons attended to bid for the vessel, that some were persuaded and others deterred by threats from bidding, and that the vessel worth at that time between 5 and 6000 dollars, was bought in by Mr. Hollinsworth for less than 1500 dollars. The vessel had been advertised, and it was such a transaction as could not but arrest the attention of every man, who had a concern in political transactions. It was the duty of the defendant as the only Editor on the spot, and indeed very few were in the union who dared to defend men assaulted on all sides for their politics, and who were charged with anti-federalism; it was a part of his duty to shew what the conduct of the rivals of these men, was; many strange developments were made, and when this came to him in such an apparently authentic shape, he considered it his duty to publish the facts—for the facts will appear to be correct, and will be proven by the records of this court, and by other evidence.
With regard to the person, however, the court and jury will perceive that the defendant has not now to acknowledge that there was a mistake. The transactions concerning the vessel were true, there was an error in the name of the person and that error arose, not from malice nor any envy of the condition, as he was sorry to hear, stated in the charge of the plaintiff, for there is nothing in the condition of Mr. Hollinsworth at this time, for which he would exchange conditions, nor at any other time; but in truth the defendant had no personal knowledge of Mr. Hollinsworth at that time—the first time he ever saw him to discriminate him from the mass of society was when at the last sitting of this court he came forward with a witness to deprive himself of his birth-right. The defendant knew neither the person nor the condition of Levi Hollinsworth, he knew his political character and his conduct as a very
active politician in this city—as indeed the most active man of his party.—Whether there was or was not another person of the name of Hollinsworth in this city the defendant did not know, until the day after the publication, he learned from a friend, that though the facts concerning the vessel were correctly stated, that the person to whom the vessel belonged was Jehu Hollinsworth and not Levi Hollinsworth, what was the conduct of the defendant then? The facts were stated in the paper of the 9th of January, in the paper of the 10th the error was rectified, and the name of Jehu given in the room of Levi.
These are facts that speak for themselves, with the permission of the court he would read the article which corrected the error, and leave the considerations arising from it to the jury.
We find it was Jehu Hollinsworth's vessel that was some time ago sold, by the marshal, for illicit trade, and not Levi's as we before stated.—We are willing, according to an old vulgar saying, to "give to the devil his due."
Upon the face of this article, this correction of error as to the name, is there any appearance of malice, as charged by the plaintiff? Every man knows that in the contests of party there arise little political bullitions, which excite a momentary sensation, and are forgotten as they perish in the instant of their birth; a temper of far calm blended with jocularity: a gay severity that engages attention but inflicts no wound; where party spirit proceeds no farther than this, evil consequences are ever remote—this jocular temper preserved, sends even to assuage rather than aggravate, unless the persons are of a cast of mind much more violent and revengeful than is compatible with the common professions of men. In the spirit of reprobation, on a case which in the defendant's opinion, demanded public exposition, the article which is the foundation of this prosecution was written—when the error of name was discovered, what mode could be more likely to take away from the odium of the charge, than to treat it with good humor?
A vessel is engaged in an illegal trade, the vessel is seized and condemned—she is publicly sold—a collusion takes place between the owner, who is guilty of the breach of the law, and he profits by his illegal conduct, to the public loss and wrong. The vessel is worth 5000 dollars and she is sold for something more than one thousand—persons desirous of purchasing are deterred, the facts are published, and a mistake is made in the name of one person whose name differs from that of another, whose second name is common to both—the error is discovered the next day, and in three days after the correction of the error, a prosecution is commenced.
The defendant here called for the records of the court, which he read; the first was an information laid in the name of Joshua Humphreys, charging the brigantine Express with a breach of the law, in trading with the French colonies; the second was the claim set up by the owners Jehu Hollinsworth, Shallcross and Latimer, denying the illicit trade, and as usual, offering reasons why she should not be condemned. The third (was not to be found, but afterwards brought) was the decree of the court, condemning the ship and cargo for trading contrary to law.
Here the defendant addressed the jury.—This gentleman is the case before you, this is the transaction upon which you are to determine the amount of damages sustained by a person who was chairman of the Dunwoody committee, for enduring the suspicion being the person concerned for one day. Where or how has this injury been done, where is the malice proven in the publication—if it is shewn to you that such condemnation and collusion took place, what will be your judgment of this prosecution, where is the malice most conspicuous—Good God, is it not enough that thro' the malevolence of this man, I should have been brought before this court to which constitutionally I owe no jurisdiction—is it not enough that I should be deprived of
my birth right—of those rights which by the laws of God and nature I am entitled to—is it not enough that through him and this vindictive party prosecution I should be imprisoned thirty days, but that he should now at the end of nearly two years when he can shew no injury done him, and where he has done me injuries which nothing can compensate—this man comes forward with three of the leading lawyers of his party to purchase me—is this the evidence he gives of his good character, are these the grounds upon which he appears to demand damages of a Jury!
Gentlemen, I shall trespass on you no more—I have stated to the best of my judgment without premeditation, the sentiments which presented themselves to me—I beg pardon of the court for saying more than I proposed, I leave the issue to its course.
The defendant then called as evidences, Mr. Felix Imbert and his clerk Mr. George, who deposed that they recollected the sale of the vessel; that the former had authorised his clerk to bid for the vessel, but he could not recollect the sum, it might be 10,000 dollars or one dollar; all he knew was, he did not purchase the vessel.
Mr. Imbert's clerk was alike forgetful of the exact sum; he was authorised; was not deterred by threats, but had been informed that it was an unhappy affair for the owner, and requested not to bid—therefore did not buy her; he did not recollect her worth—he might have bid, but forgot.
George Ozeas was called, he was at the sale; saw a French gentleman bid for the vessel, she belonged to Jehu Hollinsworth, not Levi,—persons had used reproaches to the French gentleman for bidding—there was only one man bid, more than 200 present—some persons said it was a pity to raise the price on the owner.
Mr. Ingersol rose after the evidence had been closed, and animadverted upon it at large, and endeavoured to shew that no collusive sale had taken place; he argued that even if the facts had been true as it related to Jehu Hollinsworth, that still it was no less a libel on Levi who was innocent; that the defendant was evidently, and by his own confession actuated by malice, and that what he had alleged of his suffering the punishment, imprisonment, and disfranchisement on account of this prosecution was not true.
Mr. Ingersol proceeded to investigate the charge and the evidence, and to discent on the nature of libel, into which he went very much at large; quoting all the celebrated British authorities, such as Blackstone, Erskine, and among others the celebrated letters of Junius, page 15, of the preface, as follows—"If the characters of private men are insulted, abjured, a double remedy is opened to them by action and indictment. If thro' idleness, false shame, or indifference they will not appeal to the laws of their country, they fail in their duty to society and are unjust to themselves."
He also adverted to the case of John Peter Zenger, at New-York, in 1735, where the eloquent Andrew Hamilton gave similar opinions to those of Junius, and to Erskine, Glynn, and other English authorities. Of which we regret the want of notes, and prefer waiting the reports of our adversaries than endanger a suspicion of wilful misrepresentation of the speeches of this gentleman and Mr. Lewis who followed him.
Mr. Beckley, then asked permission of the Court to address the Jury on behalf of the Defendant, to a single point.
Mr. Lewis objected, but was overruled by the Court, he having the right to reply.
Mr. B. observed to the Jury, that the single consideration before them was the true measure of Damages for any real injury, which the Plaintiff had sustained from the libel, standing on the ground of the two publications, of the 9th January, 1800, containing the libel, and the other of the next day, containing the Defendant's acknowledgment of a mistake in the name of the Plaintiff. Error was incident to every man, but no malice could be fairly imputable in a case where the christian

name Levi was mistaken for Jehu , as attached to a surname common to both, where the person of that surname was, in either case, equally unknown to the Defendant; and when the Defendant immediately on his own motion , and from a sense of justice, corrected the error in the same mode, and through the same channel in which it was committed. A motive of fear was ascribed to the defendant for retracting the libel, because the action was instituted against him on the day of the publication, but did the motive, if admitted to be true, although expressly denied, diminish the effect of the latter publication as a total exoneration of the Plaintiff from the matter of the libel. A motive then on the part of the defendant which operated an act of complete justice to the Plaintiff, and wiped away the injury he had sustained, might well be contrasted with that motive of the Plaintiff, which amidst the high founding virtues for which his counsel had panegyrized him, could impel him to maintain an onerous persecution against the defendant, and demand of the jury exemplary damages for an injury merely ideal, not real. Exemplary damages would only be given for real and positive injury, expressly and particularly proved. Was a title of any such proof offered? Had the plaintiff in point of honourable reputation and fair character, been injured in the estimation of any man living? Was not the story of the libel as applicable to another person, and not to the plaintiff, understood by every man in the city? Did not every one see, know, and acknowledge the mistake on the day of publication? Did not the defendant's statement of the error on the next day, confirm and satisfy every mind?—whence the demand of exemplary damages, unless to gratify malice, or a spirit of party persecution? The Jury were superior to such motives, and when the injury was ideal not real, as in this case, would give no more than nominal damages sufficient to carry the costs—and such he trusted would be their verdict.
Mr. Lewis closed for the plaintiff with a speech of which we took no notes.
If we can obtain Judge Tilghman's charge, or if the other counsel will furnish minutes of their arguments, we shall publish them—If we do not obtain Judge Tilghman's charge, we shall attempt a report of it from our notes to-morrow.
The Jury who had been divided all night on the quantum of damages—agreed at eleven o'clock yesterday—on Six hundred Dollars .
[FROM THE BOSTON CHRONICLE.]
The prejudices of north and south which it is the constant object of certain writers to encourage, may be followed with more serious consequences than they imagine.—The vilification of private character and the misrepresentation of the views and designs of the southern members of the administration may answer an electioneering purpose; and if the evil rested here, it might be tolerated:—but it is possible for these gentlemen who have eyes and ears as well as ourselves, to forget or forget the constant standards which are heaped upon their good name? Can they be supposed insensible to injury, or proof against resentment? Are they more or less than men, subject to, or exempted from, the passions incident to human nature? Independent of personal effects or a tendency to degrade the national character, the Union of the States is put in jeopardy, and may eventually be destroyed by the folly and wantonness of a few inconsiderate men, who, not content withaspering individuals of great and acknowledged respectability, represent whole states as opposed to the Constitution, and accuse them of irreligion, immorality, insubordination, of separate views and interests, of unbounded ambition, hostile to the general interest, and at variance with the best establishments of the country. A perusal of the federal papers for the last three years will carry abundant proof that such has been the tendency if not the real object of the writers in those papers. To a distracted and divided people it is poor consolation to be told that the authors of their calamity are few in number or desperate in character. Mr. Jefferson (holding the office) has been more abused, before and since his election than any other man in the United States. No respect for the First Magistrate, no regard to the principles of honor, or equity between man and man, much less of policy, good neighbourhood, or the charity and consideration which influence candid minds, have restrained the malevolence of his calumniators.
But it is not to Mr. Jefferson as a man or the First Magistrate of the nation, but as
a favorite and influential member of a legislature, that we complain of the ill policy of offering such abuse.
If union and harmony between the states carried us triumphantly through our revolutionary war, and constitutes our only hope and security in peace, it will follow that every attempt to destroy that Union or interrupt that harmony must be dictated by an enemy to both.
When the resolves of Suffolk were transmitted for the consideration of our sister states, and Massachusetts trembled for their fate, Virginia gave her first and earliest sanction. When the inhabitants of Boston were suffering under the cruelty of the memorable "Port Bill," those sufferings were relieved by the sympathy and generosity of Virginia. The Lees, a Wythe, a Pendleton, a Jefferson, with the whole State of Virginia were then more than brothers: they were angels who protected, friends who supported the victims of Liberty in Massachusetts. To encourage this friendship and preserve this Union and harmony has been a favorite object with every man who deserved the name of patriot, from the dawn of the revolution to the day of its oblivion; and it is worthy of remark, that the original enemies to the principles of the Revolution, whether within or without the territory of the United States, have directed their "batteries" against this true Palladium with equal zeal and constancy. In what estimation they ought to be held by the people of America, may be learned from the following extract from the legacy of departed WASHINGTON:—
"The unity of the government which constitutes you one people is also now dear to you. It is justly so; for it is a main pillar in the edifice of your real independence, the support of your tranquillity at home, your peace abroad; of your safety; of your prosperity, of that very liberty which you so highly prize. But as it is easy to foresee, that from different causes and from different quarters, much pains will be taken, many artifices employed, to weaken in your minds the conviction of this truth; as this is the point in your political fortress, against which the batteries of internal or external enemies will be most constantly and actively (though often covertly or insidiously) directed, it is of infinite moment that you should properly estimate the immense value of your national Union, to your collective and individual happiness; that you should cherish a cordial habitual and immovable attachment to it; accustoming yourselves to think and speak of it as the Palladium of your political safety and prosperity, watching for its preservation with jealous anxiety; discountenancing whatever may suggest even a suspicion that it can in any event be abandoned; and indignantly frowning upon the first dawning of every attempt to alienate any portion of our country from the rest, or to enfeeble the sacred ties which now link together the various parts."
"For this you have every inducement of sympathy and interest. Citizens, by birth or choice, of a common country, that country has a right to concentrate your affections. The name of American which belongs to you in your national capacity must always exalt the just pride of patriotism, more than any other appellation derived from local discriminations. With light shades of difference, you have the same religion, manners, habits and political principles. You have, in a common cause, fought and triumphed together; the independence and liberty you possess, are the work of joint councils, and joint efforts, of common dangers, sufferings and successes."
RECORDER.
POST-OFFICE.
WASHINGTON CITY, Oct. 7, 1801.
The great Northwestern Mail which includes the following Post-Offices will be closed at this office every Wednesday at 8 A.M and Friday at 5 P.M. viz.
Bedford, Pa. Lexington, Ky. Bourbonton, Ky. Manchester, N. W. Brook C. H. Va. Mayville, Ky. Cannonsburg, Pa. New Lancaster, N. T. Chambersburg, Pa. Pittsburg, Pa. Chillicothe, N. T. Somerlet, Pa. Clarksburg, Md. St. Clairville, N. T. Frankfort, Ky. Verailles, Ky. Fredericktown, Md. Washington, Pa. Greencastle, Pa. Washington, Ky. Greensburg, Pa. Wheeling, Vir. Hagerstown, Md. Zanesville, N. T.
Mails for other northwestern post-offices will be made up as usual, every Friday at 5 P.M. A mail for Unity Town, Brookville, Hobbsville, Howard's Mill, Wright's Mill and Taney Town, Maryland, will be closed at this office every Tuesday at 5 P.M.
THOMAS M C ROE, Postmaster.
October 9.
ep3t
WASHINGTON CITY.
WEDNESDAY, October 21, 1801.
On the 15th instant the Boston Frigate, with Mr. Livingston, our minister to France on board, sailed from New-York. On passing Fort Jay, she was honored with a salute.
Extract of a letter from Tunis, dated June 1st, 1801.
"On the 27th ult. entered two Corsairs of the government from a cruise, a Xebec of 24 twelve pounders, and a corvette of 20 brass nines, which had been boarded and disarmed by a French detachment commanded by vice-admiral Gantheaume. The affair is so novel, so well done, and at the same time so laconic, that it seems worthy of detail. "Who are you?" Hailed the republican. "Tunisines" was the answer. "Whom do you cruise against?" "Neapolitans." "What! Do you not know that the Neapolitans are our friends? Dare you insult the allies of Frenchmen! Overboard in an instant every offensive weapon, or I send you to the bottom!" The order was promptly obeyed. "Go make the compliments of the first consul to the Bey your master. Tell him it was not his intention to have regarded your breach of faith in renewing the war. You might have remained tranquil and undisturbed at home; but if we find you abroad in search of mischief we deprive you of the means. Tell him to beware of provoking the resentment of the first consul, it will be terrible to him and to his country." The admiral wrote to the Bey in the same style. His chagrin and mortification may be better imagined than described. These were two of his best cruisers, but the contempt is more grating than the injury done him. He cannot aspire to avenge himself of the French. He dares no more look for prey from Italy. What shall he do? The Americans are a species of Christians somewhat similar in their religion and government to the French, and must therefore expiate the affront. We are now the only nation on earth against whom Barbary can safely cruise; the Spaniards are included in the list of French allies. For these reasons, this example of the French, though it is the only one worthy of imitation with these people that has happened latterly, is extremely prejudicial to our affairs, and its influence is instantaneous. Since it took place the Bey has totally changed his tone of treatment."
It must appear not a little extraordinary to those who read the public prints, without yielding themselves to the unworthy passions which too many of them tend to excite, that the MEDITERRANEAN EXPEDITION , while it is condemned in terms of the grossest invective in federal newspapers, has received the most unqualified approbation of the public functionaries in Europe. These latter were all of them appointed by general Washington or Mr. Adams, and are what are denominated firm federalists. Whence then this glaring inconsistency? Is it that the public ministers are disposed to cringe to men in power, and to apostatize from the tenor of their past principles? Will federalists ascribe such motives to Mr. Smith at Lisbon, or to Mr. Humphreys at Madrid, who both applaud the wisdom of the expedition, as appears from official papers before the public?
If such be not their motives; if, on the contrary, it be most correct to consider them as possessed of the best information, as being from their situations good and disinterested judges as well of the necessity as of the wisdom of the plan; then what shall we say to that deluge of reproach which has fallen with such intemperate fury on the devoted heads of the administration? What shall we say to the terrific cry of impeachment which has resounded from the North?
Let the weight of Mr. Smith, and Mr. Humphrey's approbation, be weighed with the vague reproach, and the personal squabbles of a dozen newspapers, and let any candid man say, which merits the greatest regard? In the approbation of the first he will behold judgments unperverted by party candidly pronouncing their decided convictions, while in the latter he can only discover the indiscriminate reproaches of enmity.
PENNSYLVANIA ELECTION.
In Chester County , the federal ticket consisting of five representatives, has carried by a majority of 150 votes. In Cumberland , the republican ticket,
consisting of one Senator, and three representatives, has carried
In Montgomery , the republican ticket, consisting of four representatives, has carried.
MARYLAND ELECTION.
Ann Arundel. John F. Mercer, Richard H. Harwood, Edward Hail, William Dorsey—Republican.
Charles County. Philip Stuart, Samuel Jones, Henry H. Chapman, William H. M c Pheron.
Allegheany. Jaffe Tomlinson, Joseph Cressap, John Simkins, Benjamin Tomlinson.
It is stated in the Philadelphia Prints that the legality of the late election for the governor of Delaware will be contested.
JOHN P. VAN NESS , the Republican Candidate for Representative in Congress for New-York, is elected by a majority of about 1000 votes.
The bill of Indictment in a suit commenced against the Editor of this paper by order of the present Executive, on behalf of the Senate of the U. States, and which was brought before a Grand Jury on Monday last, was on Wednesday returned by the jury IGNORAMUS .
[Aurora.]
FROM THE AURORA.
The following summons was served on the Editor of this paper on Saturday, by the marshal of this district—we are restrained from animadversions upon this subject, for obvious reasons. The affidavit made by Seth Willis, gave rise to the report of a suit which we noticed in our last.
In the Circuit Court of the United States, in and for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, in the third Circuit.
Levi Hollingsworth, a citizen of the United States, vs. William Duane, a subject of his Britannic Majesty. Case No 5, of April, 1801.
And now to wit, October 17th, A. D. 1801—On motion of Mr. Tilghman, and affidavit of Seth Willis, filed.
Rule to show cause on Wednesday morning at 10 o'clock, why an attachment for a contempt should not issue against the defendant, William Duane, for a publication in the Aurora , of the 29th of September, 1801, respecting a cause depending in this court between Levi Hollingsworth, plaintiff, and William Duane, defendant.
A true copy, D. CALDWELL, Clerk.
True Copy, JOHN SMITH, Marshal.
ANOTHER TRIUMPH.
A republican majority has been obtained in Jersey—Gloucester and Hunterdon have given republican majorities.
Jersey will therefore have a republican governor—and every state from New-York to Georgia, both inclusive, will have republican governors. [Aurora.]
Extract of a letter from an officer in the Western army, to his friend in Springfield, (Massachusetts) dated Wilkinsonville, August 24th, 1801.
"It is with deep regret I have the disagreeable task to inform you of the death of our beloved Colonel Commandant, D. STRONG—I dined with him two days before his death, when he enjoyed himself very well. After dinner he rode out; was taken ill about 9 o'clock in the evening. The next morning he was quite composed, and made some arrangement which his duty required; but in the evening was a little deranged—The next morning he lost his speech, and departed this life without a struggle or groan. He was buried with military honors. Our situation is very distressing and alarming: we have two hundred and thirty two men on the sick report. I have lost seven of my best men by death on this ground; have 32 now sick; one has deceased this morning since I set down to write. We shall leave this place in two or three days, and move, I hope, for a more healthy one on the Cumberland, on the Tennessee."
DIED —At Smithville, near Wilmington, on the 3d inst. after a short illness, Major Griffith John M c Ree, Collector of the port of Wilmington.
At his seat near Salisbury, in Rowan County, on the 7th of September, of a lingering illness, General Mathew Locke, in the 71st year of his age. On the 9th his remains were deposited in the Burying Ground at Thyatira, in presence of a nu-

numerous crowd of relatives and neighbours. It may perhaps be thought unnecessary to offer any encomium upon a life and character so well known as that of Gen. Locke. But to those who survive him, it may have its utility, inasmuch as it may excite to an imitation of those virtues, and of that conduct in life, which so deservedly raised him in the estimation of mankind. Particulars of his social turn of mind, his acknowledged liberality of sentiment, his benevolent disposition, and his uniform attention to the rights and liberties of his country, we hasten briefly to state a few of his many and able services, devoted to the interest of his country and to the happiness of the individuals of it, before, during, and after the Revolution.—Early in life, he was chosen a member of the State Legislature, in which he served during a period of above thirty years, with the utmost utility to his Country, and the unremitted and increasing confidence of his constituents. He was a member of the Convention for the ratification of the Federal Constitution, and the ensuing year when it was adopted. In the year 1792, he was chosen a Representative, and for six successive years served in the Congress of the United States, until the abolishing and annihilation of all Federalists had removed all obstacles to the most friendly services of the best of Republicans were forgotten, amidst the pretended impending danger of their country, and the continual paper warfare of the supposed protectors of it. He returned (though not without the utmost exertions for the better information of his delegates fellow-citizens) to concerns more domestic, though not less arduous, and breathed his last with a firm and fixed Republican. Thus ended the long and useful life of a loving Husband, a tender Parent, a benevolent Friend, and a zealous Advocate for the Priority, Liberty and Independence of his Country.
An official letter from Rear Admiral Lord Cochrane, commanding at Guadalupe, dated the 14th July has been published in the Paris papers. Among other subjects relating to the colony, he mentions the following of America.
The rear admiral directed his attention to the manner in which the treaty between France and the United States was executed in the colony. He ascertained, indeed, that all the vessels which had been seized since the Convention, or condemned before the publication of it in the colony, had been restored to their respective proprietors—but he was astonished at the number of those condemned between these two periods; and the products of which had been divided between the officers and the crews of the privateers. He proposes to draw up a report, which will make known to the government the importance of the claims the subjects of the United States have felt to make. The evil is the greater, because the decrees of the Consuls, constituting a Council of Prizes at Paris, was unknown in the colony until the rear admiral's arrival; so that the neutrals were liable to the condemnation unjustly exercised by the Tribunate of Commerce.
NEW-YORK, October 16.
It is with great pleasure we inform our readers, that for the twenty hours preceding yesterday afternoon at four o'clock, only three cases of the fever had been reported to the Resident Physician; and should the present cure, otherwise wont to continue till Monday, we are in hopes of witnessing the immediate return of those who have left the city.
The following questions are proposed for solution by the Royal Society of Copenhagen.
1. Is oxygen, or any gas containing it, absolutely necessary to the growth and expansion of the chick in the egg of the common domestic hen, or of any other fowl? Or, is it possible for that growth and expansion to take place in any gas unfit for respiration? and what is that gas?
2. What influence has electricity, positive or negative, on the state of the air and on the capacity of the atmosphere to take up water in the state of gas vapour?
3. For the best answer to each of these questions, will be given a prize of a gold medal, worth one hundred Danish Crowns. The answers must be sent in before the end of September, 1802."
"T. BUGGL"
The evidence of the efficacy of Perkin's Tractors , of late the subject of so much controversy and speculation, is at length considered as decisive and medical characters of high reputation are now recommending their use. The idea entertained by some that their good effects were attributable to imagination is proved to be erroneous,
since they are found to cure infants and horses as readily as any other subject. Indeed, the utility of the Tractors , as a remedy for inflamed eyes, sprains, contusions, and consequently lameness of horses, is now so well established that they are rapidly adopting in Gentlemen's stables. Among some singular cures upon horses recently communicated, and published during the present month, is a very remarkable case from A. Pineke, Esq. of Shurton, Kent, but its detail would exceed our limits; also the following note from a highly respected Nobleman, who has liberally permitted it to be published for general information:
London, Hertford-street May 25, 1801.
"Lord Rivers presents his compliments to Mr. Perkins, and requests he will send by the bearer a set of his Metallic Tractors , which he is desirous of purchasing in addition to those he has already had, and which he constantly leaves with his groom; they having been of the greatest use in his stables."
PARIS.
Decree of the 21st August.
The Consuls of the Republic, in order to assure the execution of the law of the 1st of November, 1797, prohibiting the introduction of British merchandise, upon the report of the First Consul, decree.
Art. I. Reckoning from the 23d of September next, all dimities, muslinets, linens, cloths, and velvets, which do not bear the mark of the manufacturer, and the national stamp, with the number, shall be adjudged to be of English manufacture, and be confiscated, conformably to the law of the 1st of November, 1797.
II. The government will send to every prefect, in sufficient number, two sorts of stamps, the one to mark the stuffs at present in the magazines, the other to be placed on those manufacturing.
III. Each prefect shall name a commission for every principal city, who shall stamp, without expence, all stuffs now in the magazines. He shall likewise appoint one for the manufacturing towns, to stamp the stuffs just issuing from the manufactory and before the glossing and bleaching. These marks shall be made after a prescribed manner, and placed at both ends of each piece.
A register shall be opened containing the number of marked pieces, and the names of the manufacturers. The register shall be deposited in the municipality, and be signed by the mayor.
IV. After the 23d of September, things seized without a mark, or with a forged mark, shall be confiscated, conformably to the law of the 1st of November, 1797; and delivered up to the government, in order that the sale should be made to a foreigner, and the money arising therefrom to be distributed to those who seized it according to the terms of the same law, viz. The half of the price, according to the computed value, shall be ultimately paid by the government.
V. The ministers of the interior and of finance, are charged with what concerns them in this respect, and with the execution of the present decree, which shall be inserted in the bulletin of the laws.
(Signed) BONAPARTE.
IMPORTED,
In the Ship Thomas , from Liverpool, Ironmongery, Cutlery, Saddlery and Brass Ware, which are now opening for sale at the subscriber's store on New Jersey Avenue, Capitol Hill, viz. RAILON and brass kim locks, fork dingo, butt and H. hinges, screws, bolts, laws, files, chisels, curriers knives, waggon boxes, frying pans, patent metal tea kettles, pots and saucepans, chipping dishes, iron pot, knife cases, knives and forks, brails and iron candlesticks, shovel and tongs, brushes, ladies dressing cases, mathematical instruments, mill, pit and cross-cut saws, prepared ware, large steel beams, &c. &c.
HENRY INGLE.
October 19.
The ABINET and CHAIR MAKING Business is carried on by Ingle and Petton, at their shop next to the above store, where orders in that line will be thankfully received and punctually attended to.
N. B. A good steady Journeyman Cabinet-Maker will meet with employ by applying as above. 2wtf.
FOR SALE,
HANDSOME Saddle Horse with saddle and bridle—An elegant solid mahogany desk and book case with a collection of valuable books, among which is Sayer's large Atlas , best edition.
And to be Let,
A Frame House 18 feet by 14, on square No. 28.
GEORGE WALKER
Washington, Oct. 16, 1801. ep3
Twenty Dollars Reward.
STRAYED OR STOLEN from the City of Washington, on the 14th inst. a SORREL HORSE, about fourteen hands and an half high, bald face, both hind legs white, and marked with the letter S. on his right shoulder and buttock. Any person who will bring said horse to the subscriber in said city, shall receive, if it be alive, five dollars reward, and all reasonable expences paid; and if stolen, the above reward on detection and commitment of the thief.
JAMES MATHURS,
Near the Capitol.
October 21, 1801.
ep2
THOMAS CARPENTER, TAYLOR,
Has just received a handsome assortment of Cloths, Cassimeres, Swansdown, &c. OF SUPERIOR QUALITY.
GENTLEMEN who favor him with their orders, may rest assured of first attention on the best & most reasonable workmanship and materials, and on reasonable terms.
** Military and Naval Uniforms, and Ladies' Habits made with elegance.
City of Washington between the President's House and the even Buildings, Pennsylvania Avenue.
October 21, 1801.
1awtf
NOTICE.
The following slaves have been committed to the jail of Washington County in the District of Columbia, viz.
JOHN MAYNARD—Twenty-nine years old, a light mulatto, 5 feet 10 inches high, says he was formerly the property of David McMecken, Esq. of Baltimore, who sold him to a Mr. White, a Mr. Buchanan, and a Mr. Sargeant from Georgia.
JIM WILMER—Twenty-six or 27 years of age, very black complexion, 5 feet 8 inches high, says he was formerly the property of M. Cumberland Dugan of Baltimore, who sold him to the said White, Biegh and Sargeant—Both of these men have on a core negro clothing, not much worn.
HARLEY—25 years of age, about 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, well made, and has a good countenance; says he belongs to a Mr. Tubman, of Benedict, in St. Mary's county, Maryland—he has on coarse negro clothing, a good deal worn.
The owners of the above slaves are desired to come and take them away, or they will be sold to pay their prison expences, according to the provision of the law respecting runaways.
DANIEL CARROLL BRANT,
Marshal of the District of Columbia.
Washington, October 21, 1801
ti
For Sale,
At the Store lately occupied by Mr. F. MAHON on Water-street, opposite Messrs. King & Daugherty's number Yard.
Cogniac brandy, Holland gin.
West-India and N. England Rum, Sp. & old brandy, cherry rum, brown, loaf and lump sugars, gun powder, imperial, hyson, hyson skin and touchong teas, green coffee, pepper, allspice, nutmegs, ground ginger, fig blue, indigo, starch, Sp. with legs, mould and dip candles in boxes, white and brown soap in ditto, seal leather, molasses, best table codfish, a few thousand weight east Rhode-Island dice, mens' coarse shoes, apples in barrels, a quantity of onions, &c. &c.
George Town, October 21.
1awtf
FALL GOODS.
WILLIAM OXLEY & Co.
Have received by the late arrivals from London and Liverpool,
Fall and winter goods which
are now opening and selling very low for cash or approved notes. A liberal credit will be given to those of known punctuality.
Alexandria, Oct. 19.
epf.
PUBLIC SALE.
The House and Lot occupied by the subscriber near the Navy-Yard, will be sold at public Auction, near the Capitol, on Monday the 26th inst. at 12 o'clock at noon.
THIS beautiful situation having been for some time described in this paper, any thing farther on the subject is deemed unnecessary, especially as it is presumed those inclined to purchase will view the premises, which may be done at any time prior to the day of sale.
The dimensions of the lot, and the terms will be made known at the time and place of sale, or by application to the subscriber previous thereto. Possession may be had at farthest in thirty days after the sale.
At the same time and place a small parcel of household furniture.
THOMAS TINGEY.
Washington Oct. 12, 1801.
epf.
Two handsome well finished three story brick houses on Greenleaf's Point, to rent on moderate terms.
The subscriber respectfully acquaints the public, that he has removed to the corner of Ninth and A streets, where he continues to manufacture and sell all kinds of Ornament for Chimney pieces, Door Caps, Frontispieces, Metal Caskets, &c. which may also be had at No. 51. Barclay Street, New-York, and Mr. Wild's store, Market Street, Baltimore.
GEORGE L. NUTTER
Who has gold leaf for sale by the package.
May 8, 1801.
1y
A LIST of LETTERS Remaining in the Post-Office, Washington City, October 1st.
A. Mrs. Lucy Addison 2.
B. James Brown, J. B. Brown, Samuel Bladen, John N. Barron, Philip Baker, James Blake, James Blair 2, Nancy Bury, Elizabeth and Daniel Bruffitt, Capt. Francis Bagby, James Barnble, Ignatius Booth, Juliet Bellybreaker, William Barker.
C. Captain William Clark 3, Mrs. B. Currie 2, Mr. Casey, Benjamin Camulos, George Crook, Samuel W. Gant, James Chambers, Collector of the Customs, Sarah Calpester, David Chambers, Cassander Carter, Matthew Cohen, William Cole, James Thompson Callender, John Cowper.
D. Mathew Delany, Charles Dorothy, Slu-ball Downes, Michael Duffy, Thomas Donovan, Richard Dymore, Mrs. Doublin.
E. Daniel Earl, Samuel Elbert, Samuel Elliot, Ebenezer Ehaton 2, Henry Elliot.
F. Patrick Farrel, John French, Robert R. Flinn, Robert Flanagan.
G. James Gorham, Lieut. John Galven, Robert Goldsborough, George Gray, Robert Gordon, John Gatewood.
H. Captain Charles Hyde, James Hagan, William Harrison, William Hollingsworth, George D. Handy, Walter Helen, Upton Hobbs, D. Hanagan 2, James Hemmings, John Hewitt, James B. Harris, John Hareton.
I. Morlecai Jones, Pierce Joice, Captain Izard, Edward Johnson, Samuel Jackson.
K. Thomas Kidder, Peugrin Knotts, John Kane, Teagu Key, George Kibner.
L. Samuel Lane, Messrs. Law and Berry, Jacob Lewis 2, Archibald B. Lord 3, Samuel Levering, George Little, George Lenox, Thomas Lowndes, James Lovelace.
M. Robert Moore, Master of the Carpenters, Thomas Mein 2, Thomas Martin, Richard McCare, Joseph Mattingly, Murtough McGann, Miller Mason, James Madd, master of the cotton manufactory, Thomas McMunn.
N. John Nixon 2, Benjamin Neely, Thomas Neals.
O. Tho. as O'Conner 2, Monsieur Blekker Olfen 3, James O'Hara, or the Accountant of War.
P. Isaac Pollock 6, Miss R. Pollock, Thomas Peck, John Perviance, Thomas Pye 3, John Pickford, Mann Page, Robert Paxton, Cary Pratt, Mary Palmatary, Thomas Pratt.
Q. Capt. Joseph Queen.
R. James Rand, Thomas Raglefs, Alexander Reed 2, George Rowland, Owen Roberts, Mr. Reynolds 2.
S. James Salmon 2, Adam Stewart 2, Ann Shaw 2, Maurice Simmons, John Savary, surveyor of the revenue, John Scott, Isaac Smith, Lieut. William Smith, Joseph Simms, Thomas S. Stevens, John Stewart.
T. Emily Thompson 2, William Thompson, Philip Taylor 2, Francis Tomkins, Michael Tucker, Thomas, of Schooner Orange.
V. Daniel Vertner 2, William Vernon.
W. Silvester Woodward, Charles Wadsworth 2, Francis Woodland, Mr. Wootton, Richard Willson, Edward Wynn, Sarah Wilson, Benjamin Williamson, Grove Wright.
Y. Priscilla Yearts.
Z. [Blank]
FOR SALE IN ALEXANDRIA, two three story brick houses in Alexandria, completely finished, on King and Columbia-street with sundry valuable property near the same, possession whereof may be had immediately. The situation for the flour and grocery business is equal to any in Alexandria.
For terms apply to Henry Thomas Moore, Alexandria or to the subscriber NICHOLAS VOSS.
The Schooner Dolphin & Kitty, now lying at Mr. Young's Wharf will constantly take freights every three weeks from this to Annapolis or Baltimore. For terms apply to BRO. HAWN and BOYS. Washington July 15, 1801.

LIFE OF WILLIAM GODWIN.
[CONCLUDED.]
In 1794, appeared Mr. Godwin's novel of Caleb Williams. His former production had so completely established his reputation for genius, that it can hardly be said this novel increased his fame. It proved the versatility of his powers; but the creative faculties, the richness, eloquence, and passion, displayed in Political Justice, were not excelled in Caleb Williams, although the latter was a form in which they were more obvious to the vulgar. Perhaps a work on ethics is never sufficient of itself to ensure the undiminished fame of a writer. Investigations of that kind, even when they produce facts, are in the nature of discoveries in arts, which are rendered insignificant by farther improvements in the same art. A work of imagination, if conducted on the principles of human actions and enlivened by copiousness of invention, is eternal in its reputation. Mr. Godwin's Caleb Williams, therefore, gave permanence, rather than accession of quantity, to his fame.
In October, 1794, Mr. Godwin wrote a pamphlet entitled Curfory Strictures on the Charge delivered by Lord Chief-Justice Eyre to the Grand Jury on the 2d of October, 1794. In the charge which preceded the memorable state-trials of that year, certain doctrines were broached relative to the crime of high treason, on the impression of which on the public mind probably depended the lives of the accused. The temper and circumstances of the times gave these doctrines such popularity, that almost instantaneously it was a current opinion that the accused were guilty and would be convicted. Mr. Godwin saw the fallacy and danger of the reasoning in the charge; and, having employed a friend to write to his dictating, within eight-and-forty hours, produced his Curfory Strictures. They first appeared in the Morning Chronicle, and thence were copied into other papers; and were, at the same time, sent to the press in the form of a pamphlet. On the day the pamphlet was published, the bookseller received an intimation that he would be prosecuted if he sold another copy. He stopped the sale; and another publisher was of course to be sought. But the business of the Curfory Strictures was already completed. The subtle mischiefs of the charge were exhibited in the Strictures with their natural undisguised deformity and coarseness. The public tide was turned; and, instead of the guilt and conviction of the accused, nothing was heard of, in the streets and places of resort, but the flagrancy of the offences of the charge.
Curfory Strictures affords a fine example of that species of writing. The author's vehement indignation, when he presents the charge to the public view stripped of its cunning, is a beautiful contrast to his cool and steady temper in removing its artful coverings.
In 1795, Mr. Godwin published an edition of Political Justice, in 8vo. There is, in this edition, something to endear him to every generous mind, intent only on the discovery of truth. In revising the opinions of that book, in the interval between the first and second edition, he thought some were erroneous; and, with the candour becoming the value of the inquiry, he availed himself of the second edition to inform his readers of the mistakes. The principal difference in the two editions will be found in the treating of the four following topics: Property; political change; marriage; and sincerity.
Mr. Godwin, in entertaining that great and comprehensive principle, that there is no portion of our time and property which virtue does not inflexibly apply to some definite use, stated, in the first edition, as a natural result, that the existence of property in the hands of individuals, with the rights and powers ascribed to it by the law, is an error in politics. In the second edition he qualifies the statement by acknowledging that the several members of society ought to be allowed a discretion in the use of the property they earn; and that, although it is still true that it is their duty to employ every particle of property according to some mode dictated by the occasion, and not by their caprice, it is inconsistent with political liberty to superintend and direct the application through the medium of political regulations.
In the first edition, Mr. Godwin, in speaking of political change, seems to have betrayed an impatience for the hour of its arrival; with the condition, constantly annexed, however, of its being forwarded only by opinion, unassisted with force. In the second edition, he most explicitly and strenuously maintains that there exists, in
the nature of things, a necessity for a flow as well as gradual change.
In urging his objections to marriage, as it exists at present, Mr. Godwin had left it as a question he did not decide, whether the promiscuous intercourse of the sexes, or the selection of an individual of one sex by an individual of the other, would be the result of his system; but, in the second edition, he decides the question distinctly in favor of the latter.
Sincerity, Mr. Godwin, in the first edition, insisted upon as a quality never to be violated, even in any extreme case; and, in the second edition, he qualifies this statement by the rule of utility, which, sometimes, he admits, may demand a sacrifice of sincerity.
Beside these changes in Mr. Godwin's opinions, which are certainly important to his view of the result of his scheme in society, there are many others of considerably less effect. We have nothing at present to do with the truth or error of Mr. Godwin's opinions. But it is a question material to this sketch of his character, how far his authority as a moralist, ought to be affected by these alterations? And this question depends upon the resolution of a previous one, how far the alterations in Political Justice are destructive of the vital principles of the book as first described by the author? If his scheme remains entire in one statement and the other, and the alterations exhibit no more than improvement in subordinate parts, making the whole and even its outline stronger than before, then it will be admitted that Mr. Godwin's candour, in giving the actual state of his mind to his reader, is not the only motive of reliance on him, but that his authority is increased by his activity and penetration in the detection of his own erroneous deductions.
In 1796, Mr. Godwin published a volume of miscellaneous essays under the title of The Inquirer. This book assumes a very modest appearance, affecting to contain nothing more than hints on important subjects. But these are strongly conceived, and have an original cast; and the work affords one more proof of the writer's unquenchable passion for the discovery of truth.
In 1797, a third edition of Political Justice was published. A second and third edition of Caleb Williams were published in 1795 and 1797.
There is but one publication more from Mr. Godwin's pen that we have to notice, and that is connected with a story of pecuniary interest. We allude to the Memoirs of Mrs. Godwin's Life. The story connected with that work deserves to be told at length, if it could come within our limits. It exhibited Mr. Godwin in that difficult moment for him when the lofty doctrines he had taught made heavy claims on his own practice. He had loudly proclaimed his objections to marriage, and his hatred of that state was indeed inveterate enough. The time came, when he was to subject the woman of his choice to unmerited obloquy, or comply with forms he could not approve. The situation was trying. But Mr. Godwin conceived the production of happiness to be the true criterion of morality; and he did not hesitate to choose, where unlimited mischiefs were to be incurred on one hand, and a definite and comparatively small evil on the other.
Mr. Godwin was married to Mrs. Wollstonecraft in 1797. He had slightly known that most celebrated and most injured woman before her residence in France. After her return, accident brought him into her company. He learnt her sorrowful situation at that period; and, with a zeal that vulgar are accustomed to call romantic, attached himself to the design of restoring a noble mind to itself and to society. The elevated talents, and perhaps still more elevated temper, of Mrs. Wollstonecraft, were almost universally known in the world; and the sweetest of the feminine attractions were not less the qualities of this extraordinary woman than the grandeur of mind so generally acknowledged in her. She was one of those, that the powers of nature and the cultivation of society sometimes unite to form, for whom every sensible and polished mind almost loses its veneration in the excess of its love.
The manner in which Mr. and Mrs. Godwin lived together may be presented as a model for conjugal life. Mr. Godwin's former dislike of marriage was occasioned chiefly by the tyranny it almost always includes. It is not surprising, therefore, that his enlightened views of that intercourse should enable him to shun that rock. But it is not by the mere absence of prominent mischiefs that we can describe Mr. Godwin's roof while his wife lived. To all that is dignified in the delicate relation of married persons, we must add those innumerable
recollections of domestic peace that are found in cheerfulness, good will, and mutual deference to the adverse opinions that, in two minds of great vigor, must almost necessarily exist. One of the passions that has the most powerful hold on Mr. Godwin's mind is, a fondness for conversation with persons of superior talents. He has always asserted it to be the most fertile cause of intellectual improvement, when rich and congenial souls chance to meet. We shall not, therefore, be very much in danger of exaggerating, if we endeavor to form a picture of the perfection to which he now carried this favorite scheme of pleasure and improvement. So many accessory temptations as conversation offered, in his intercourse with Mrs. Godwin, would not fail to bring its cultivation, in this instance, to a very unusual degree of excellence.
Mrs. Godwin died in September, 1797. In the scenes that belong to that affliction period, Mr. Godwin was still to be exhibited in an unexpected light to those who were accustomed to regard him as a hard unfeeling theorist. He watched over the means attempted for her recovery with a fortitude and presence of mind that recalled to his friends the recollection of the philosopher they had been used to contemplate in his writings; but, when hope was gone, he abandoned himself to sorrow that seemed to assimilate him with the weakest of mankind; and, when Mrs. Godwin was no more, he admitted of no consolation, in the first moments of his anguish, but that of paying a superstitious respect to her remains.
It was in January, 1798, that Mr. Godwin published his Memoirs of the Life of Mrs. Godwin. In May, of the same year, a second edition of that work appeared. A painful choice seems to present itself to every ingenuous person who composes memoirs of himself, or of any one nearly connected with himself as in the present instance. He must either expose himself with disadvantage to the illiberal and malicious temper that exists in the world, or violate the honor and integrity of his feelings. Yet, that the heart should be known in all its windings, is an object of infinite importance to him who would benefit the human race. Mr. Godwin did not prefer a cowardly silence, nor treachery to the public, having chosen to write. Perhaps such works as the Memoir of Mrs. Godwin's Life, and Rousseau's Confessions, will ever disgrace their writers with the meaner spirits of the world; but then it is to be remembered, that this herd neither confers, nor can take away, fame.
Of Mr. Godwin's character, both as a man and a writer, the chief features are obvious in this slight sketch of his life. His writings display greatness of talent; and his life, virtue practiced on principles supposed to be too refined to be applicable to ordinary affairs. Without laying claim to the power of raising his conduct to the elevation of his doctrines, which he does not hold to be necessary to their solidity, he perhaps is foremost among those who approach that rule, of making the happiness of society the object of moral conduct. And, if society never reaches that state of improvement in which that fine maxim is the general law, Mr. Godwin has, nevertheless, this recompense for his labour, — that there will always be a virtuous class to whom his speculations will have afforded new motives for the exertion of their humanity, to alleviate at least the miseries to which men, on that supposition, are unhappily doomed.
Three Dollars Reward.
STRAYED away from the subscriber living near Barry's wharf in the city of Washington, on the 3d inst. a bright bay HORSE, about 15 hands high, with a small star in his forehead. He is supposed to be about ten years old, shod all round, switched tail, and midling long mane, was branded on the near side, the letter or letters not remembered, his two hind feet white — The above reward will be given to any person that will deliver said horse to me, and if taken up at a distance all reasonable expenses paid.
MARK CROWLEY.
October 16.
3t
To be Rented.
THE subscriber will rent by the year, or during the session of Congress, four large, convenient three-story BRICK HOUSES — they are well calculated for Boarding Houses, being all situated on the Capitol Hill, and the nearest houses to the Capitol; two of them adjoin the well known tavern occupied by Mr. Stille the other two are situated equally convenient to the Capitol. Any person qualified to keep such houses may know the terms by applying to
DANIEL CARROL, of Dud'n.
Sep. 28.
eptf
TO SUBSCRIBERS.
THE period is approaching when, according to the original and indispensable terms of THE NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER, each subscriber will be required to pay Five Dollars in advance for his second year. As the chief support of the paper depends upon subscriptions, it is confidently hoped that subscribers will be punctual in their remittances, which may be made in any Bank Paper, or in Gold, the postage being paid.
A considerable number of subscribers of respectability, as far as the Editor is acquainted with their characters, have requested papers, which have been accordingly forwarded, under the unequivocal engagement to render immediate payment. This, in many cases, has not been done. Unless payment be soon made, a discontinuance of their papers will be unavoidable.
In order that each Subscriber may be informed in time duly to make remittances the period of payment and the sum required to be paid will be stated on his Paper, in general some time before hand. After such notice, immediate payment will be expected, nor will any subscriber, it is hoped, take offence at a discontinuance of his paper in case payment is not made, as the heavy expenses attending a Newspaper cannot be defrayed without the regular remittances of subscriptions.
Some misconception of the provisions of the post-office law existing, the Editor informs his subscribers, that the mode of stating his accounts was not adopted, until he had obtained the approbation of the Post Master General. On examination it will be seen, that the existing law does not, though the previous law did, prohibit such statement.
BY AUCTION.
On Friday the 23d instant, at 11 o'clock, at Mr. Henry Wilson's wharf, Pills Point, will be sold
THE United States Sloop of War MARYLAND. Burthen about 460 tons, built of the very best materials, is only two years old, coppered to the bends, has two sets of sails, her running and standing riging complete. Her inventory may be seen at the auction room. — Terms of sale at 6 and 9 months credit, for negotiable notes, with two approved indorsers
Immediate after the sale of the ship, will be sold — A quantity of iron ballast, on 90 days credit, some provisions, armoures, coopers tools, water casks, &c.
October 12.
JOSHUA DORSEY.
eptf.
FOR SALE.
In pursuance of an order of the Orphans Court for the county of Washington, in the District of Columbia, will be exposed to sale on Friday the 23d of October Inst. at 10 o'clock, A. M. at ROCK-HILL, late the residence of GUSTAVUS SCOTT, Esq. deceased.
A number of Negroes, household and kitchen Furniture, Horses, Cows, and a variety of other articles. The terms of sale will be as follows: — Where the property sold to any one purchaser shall not exceed twenty dollars, cash; but where the property sold to any one purchaser shall amount to more than that sum, a credit of six months will be given, on the purchaser's passing bond, with good security, for the payment thereof, with interest from the day of sale.
and on Tuesday following, being the 27th day of October, at 10 o'clock A. M. will be exposed at public sale, at the farm called Strawberry-Vale, situate in Virginia, about nine miles from George-Town.
A number of Negroes, Horses, Mules, Cows, Calves, and Farming Utensils, belonging to the estate of the said Gustavus Scott. The terms of sale the same as above.
On the day of sale at Rock-hill, will likewise be sold at public vendue, one moiety of a GRIST-MILL, standing on Rock-Creek. Likewise a number of well situated Lots in the City of Washington. Also, a number of Potomac, and Potomac Bridge Shares, belonging to said estate. — The terms will be made known on the day of sale.
ELIAS B. CALDWELL, Adm'r. Washington, October 2. epts
IN THE CASE
Of GEORGE W. KIRKLAND, Bankrupt.
Whereas a commission of bankruptcy is awarded against George W. Kirkland, late of Washington County, in the District of Columbia; and he being declared a bankrupt, is hereby required to surrender himself to the commissioners on the twentieth day of the present month of October, on the thirtieth day of the present month of October, and on the twentieth day of November next, at four o'clock in the afternoon of the said days, at the house of William Rhodes, innkeeper, in the City and County of Washington, and district of Columbia; at the second of which meetings the creditors are to come prepared to prove their debts and choose assignees. And all persons indebted to the said Bankrupt, or that have any goods or effects of his in their hands, are desired to give notice hereof, to
ELIAS B. CALDWELL, Clerk to the Commissioners. October 7, 1801. cp3w