Gazette of the United States, & Philadelphia daily advertiser. (Philadelphia [Pa.]), 1798-05-21 00:00:00

Gazette of the United States, AND Philadelphia Daily Advertiser.
By JOHN FENNO, No. 119 Chestnut Street.
NUMBER 1776.]
PHILADELPHIA: MONDAY EVENING, MAY 21, 1798.
[VOLUME XIII.]
IF Mr. Charles William Klemcke, Formerly of London, and who left England for some part of the United States of America, in the year 1796, be living, and will apply personally or by letter, to Mr. John Carrere, in Baltimore, or to Messrs. Isaac Hazlehurst and Son, in Philadelphia, he may hear of something greatly to his advantage. Any information respecting the said Mr. Charles William Klemcke, would be thankfully received.
The Subscribers HAVE FOR SALE, Six Tons of Cordage, ASSORTED. Two hundred weight of first sort Hongkong, Philips, Gramond & Co. Madras and Ventapalem HANDKERCHIEFS, Searlaukers and Carradarries, of the newest and most approved patterns, entitled to the drawback, just received, AND FOR SALE BY Alex. J. Miller & Co. No. 64, South Front Street.
WANTED, IN A PLEASANT SITUATION, WITHIN a few miles of Town (for a Lady, lately from England) Board and Lodging, in a quiet respectable family—would engage for five or six months, and give very little trouble. A line directed to J. S. and left at the Printing Office will be attended to immediately.
TO BE SOLD, 40,939 acres of Land. IN Greene County, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on the waters of Fifth and Wheeling Creeks and Ten Mile Run. These Lands are fertile and well timbered, and abound in Coal; they were sold ten years ago for five shillings per acre; patented early in 1787, except 3700 acres, which were patented in 1792; part of them were surveyed in 1781. The tract is between the Ohio and Monongahela, very convenient to water carriage, about 70 miles from the town of Washington, from 14 to 16 from the village of Greenburgh and Wheeling. On payment of one fourth of the purchase money, a reasonable credit will be given for the residue. Enquire of the Printer.
TO BE SOLD, 26,780 acres of Land, IN the State of New York, between the northern bounds of Pennsylvania and the Susquehanna river, or late in the townships of Hamden and Warren and county of Warren. These Lands, from their quality and situation, are a very desirable object for any man who means to invest his money to advantage. On payment of one third of the purchase money, a reasonable credit will be given for the residue. Enquire of the Printer.
A few boxes of Umbrellas To be Sold cheap—by Mordecai Lewis.
Military Colours. At C. GULLAGER'S Portrait and Ornamental Painting Rooms, No. 50, South Fourth, next to Chestnut Street, opposite the Friends' Meeting. PAINTING on Silks for Military and other ornamental purposes (in a manner peculiar to himself) durable, not to be injured by the weather, which for elegance of design, truth and beauty of colouring, neatness and masterly execution, has not been equalled by George Rutter and Co. FLAGS AND DRUMS Furnished with all possible dispatch, on the most reasonable terms. Ornamental Painting, Signs, Fire Buckets, Cornices, &c. executed in style (not that superb style of modern elegance peculiar to G. R.) but in a workman like manner, peculiar to an artist master of his profession. Mr. GULLAGER, from a number of year's experience in Europe and this country, flatters himself that professional talents, punctuality, and reasonable demands, will merit the entire approbation of those gentlemen who will please to call at his Painting Rooms.
NOTICE. P.S. Gentlemen in town and country, wishing for a supply of Colours and Drums, painted in a masterly manner, will no doubt feel themselves obliged for the kind caution given by George Rutter and Co. not to trust self-flattering advertisements, but examine the work executed by both parties. One view will satisfy them where the superiority lies,—save the spoiling of good Silks by George Rutter's pencil—and discover the requisites for the contracting talents of Henry Frailey, at Germantown.
This Day Published, By J. FORMROD, No. 41, Chestnut Street, (price 25 cents), A SERMON Preached in Christ Church and St. Peter's, Philadelphia, on Wednesday May 9, 1798, being the day appointed by the President as a day of fasting, humiliation and prayer, throughout the United States of North America. By James Abercrombie, A.M. one of the assistant ministers of Christ Church and St. Peter's. A Sermon delivered by the Rev. Doc. Green, on the same occasion, will be published on Monday next.
LANDING, From on board the ship Elizabeth, captain Paillie, from Batavia, And FOR SALE BY THE SUBSCRIBER, 400,000 wt. Java COFFEE 300 canisters SUGAR, of a superior quality Also, A quantity of SAPAN WOOD JOHN MILLER, JUN.
GOODS Forwarded to BALTIMORE, OVER LAND. Via Elkton, on reasonable terms—by Levi Hollingsworth & Son.
For Sale, or Charter, THE ARMED SHIP BELVIDERE, JONATHAN REYNOLDS, Master, LYING at Jeffers and Robert Wall's wharf, burthen 256 tons, built at New-York, by Mr. Cheeseman in 1793, of live oak, cedar and locust—was completely coppered in London last year with 28 ounce hard rolled navy copper, and copper bolted. She is well known to be a staunch and fast sailing ship, is well found with ten carriage guns and may be sent to sea in a few days at a very little expence. For terms of charter or price on a liberal credit, apply on board to capt. Reynolds or at the Merchant's Coffee House, to
RICHARD D. ARDEN. WHO HAS FOR SALE ON BOARD SAID SHIP 10 Tons dry white lead 5 Tons of shot 13 Tons rolled sheet lead 20 Bales English Duck, assorted numbers 10 Tons whiting
JUST ARRIVED, In the brig Gayoso, capt. Bingham, from St. Martins A quantity of SALT, of an excellent quality A few gross Porter Bottles, new And twenty cases Vinegar And the said BRIG, Also, FOR SALE, Enquire of Jehu Hollingsworth & Co. No. 22, Little Water Street, South.
FOR SALE, 195 boxes white Havannah Sugar 107 do. brown 200 Hides Will be landed to-morrow, at Willings and Francis's wharf, from on board the brig Active, William Williams, master. Also, The said Brig for sale, And may take in immediately after discharged. Apply to Jehu Hollingsworth & Co.
For Sale, at the Stores of the Subscribers, on Walnut Street Wharf, 195 cases of nails assorted 20 bales of sail canvas, from No. 1 to 8 53 cases yellow ochre 15 tiers bottled porter, 6 to 14 doz. each London particular Madeira Wines India market Teneriffe do. in hogsheads and pipes Old Port do. in hds. Empty Claret bottles 6 cases of Ginghams, Dimities, Mullinets &c. assorted for the West-India market 4, 10, and 9 inch cables and 10 coils of cordage Writing papers, ink bands and presses 20 puncheons Jamaica rum 1 bale seaming twine 160 bundles sheathing paper
THE BRIG AMAZON, For Sale, or Charter. Nicklin & Griffith.
THIRTY DOLLARS REWARD. Stolen Last Night, OUT of the pasture of the Subscriber, living in Daby, Delaware county, a Bay Horse about sixteen hands high, six years old this spring, shot before, thin mane and tail, a small star in his forehead, hind feet white, has a remarkable scar on his near shoulder occasioned by a scald or burn, on which the hair is thin and short, he carries well, trots and canters, is apt to start when rode.—Whoever takes up said horse and thief, shall have the above reward, or fifteen dollars for the horse only and reasonable charges. Nathaniel Newlin.
Military Colours, PAINTED ON SILK—BY GEORGE RUTTER & CO. Portrait and Ornamental Painters, IN a style which will endure the hardships of the weather without injury, and which for neatness and exactitude of colouring cannot be surpassed in this city. FLAGS AND DRUMS Furnished with dispatch, on the most moderate terms. Portraits, Ornamental Paintings, Signs, fire-buckets, &c. accomplished in that superb style of modern elegance, which Mr. Rutter pledges himself from 20 years experience in this city will meet the entire approbation of his friends and the public. In the Military Line, A variety of specimen's may be seen at their Painting Room, Norris's Court, back of the New Library.
NOTICE. HAVING observed an advertisement of C. Gullager, in terms derogatory of our professional abilities, we have to request the public not to be imposed upon by foreign artists; but to decide upon the merits of each by a comparison of the work executed by both, as it is a mode almost universally adopted by them to invalidate the talents of established artists, with a view of deceiving the public, and engrossing that business which their professional knowledge in no wise entitles them to. Well knowing that public opinion must govern, we flatter ourselves that the work executed by us will convince them of our great superiority over Mr. Gullager in every branch of portrait and ornamental painting, and show the necessity of judging for themselves. N.B. In future no attention will be paid to the self-flattering advertisements of Mr. G. Any person wishing a supply of FLAGS and DRUMS will please apply to Geo. Rutter and Co. Norris' Court, or Henry Frailey, Germantown.
FOR SALE, A Black Man, WHO has five years and a half to serve, is a good coachman, an excellent waiter, and has been accustomed to marketing for a family—his age about thirty-two years. For further particulars, apply at the office of this Gazette.
CONGRESS. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
DEBATE ON THE BILL FROM THE SENATE, AUTHORISING THE PRESIDENT TO RAISE A PROVISIONAL ARMY.
TUESDAY—MAY 1. (Continued from Saturday's Gazette.)
Mr. BRENT said, he was not in the house when the arguments of the gentleman from Pennsylvania were delivered, and was therefore only acquainted with them from the comments which had been made upon them by the two gentlemen last up, which he conceived by no means overturned them. Two questions naturally present themselves to the mind on this occasion; the one as it respects the constitutionality of the bill, and the other as to its expediency. And it had struck him, from the first moment the subject came before the house, that the power proposed to be placed in the hands of the President by this bill, was perfectly unconstitutional; nor had he heard any thing in the discussion which could induce him to change his opinion. A variety of precedents have been introduced to show that similar powers have been given in former instances. But those precedents had no influence upon him. If the acts referred to were unconstitutional, they still remain to be so. Error will continue to be error however frequently it is repeated.
Without examining whether the precedents which had been adduced were in point, he would leave them, and examine the question on its own merits as a constitutional question. The Constitution says, Congress shall have power to raise and support armies. The power is as explicit, as defined as it could be. But what is the purpose of this bill? It is to give to the President of the United States the uncontrolled right, for six years, to determine whether or not an army shall be raised. Congress, then, in whom alone the Constitution has placed the power of raising armies, will be deprived, during that time, of that power. And if Congress have the power of divesting themselves of this right, and transferring it for six years, they may do it for ten years, or for a term equal to the existence of the Constitution. But he did not believe they had the power of making this transfer.
The words in the Constitution, giving the power to Congress of declaring war, are the same with those giving them the power of raising an army; yet if a proposition was made to transfer to the President the right of declaring war in certain contingencies, the measure would at once appear so outrageous, that it would meet with immediate opposition; but the transfer of one power would not be more unconstitutional than the other; both were vested with them, and without a most faithful direction of duty, they could not divest themselves of them.
But the gentleman from Massachusetts has supposed that this objection is removed, by the exercise of the power being made to depend on certain contingencies. The thing amounts to the same, the President is to raise the army, whenever, in his opinion, imminent danger of an invasion exists; therefore, the raising of it will depend upon his will, as he alone is to determine when this danger exists. And the question returns, Has Congress a right to deprive themselves of this power, in order to give it to the President? To his mind, there could be no proposition more evident than that they must themselves exercise the power.
But the gentleman from Massachusetts has said, that the words of the clause in the Constitution which forbids the individual States from engaging in war, are as follows: "except in case of an invasion, or imminent danger which will admit of no delay." This, Mr. B. said, was a very different thing from the present bill. This power was a sort of self-defence, which was to be used in cases of necessity, and of which we cannot divest ourselves, in cases where the existence of the United States could not be obtained. This power could not be abated, as no particular interest could arise from the employment of it. There was, therefore, no analogy between the two cases.
In short, from every view which he had been able to give the subject, he was decidedly of opinion, that Congress ought immediately to proceed to the raising of an army, or defer it altogether until their next meeting. Mr. B. said, he had hitherto confined himself to the unconstitutionality of the measure; but as others may differ from him in opinion in this respect, he would consider the expediency of it; and he would freely declare for himself, that if the President might be legally empowered to raise this army in the way proposed, there is no circumstance in our present situation which would induce him to raise one man. He had himself no apprehension of an invasion, and until he saw something more threatening than at present, he should never consent to the increase of our present military establishment. Gentlemen may deem as much as they will about the incapacity of the United States to repel invasion. He believed himself that the military of the country are equal to its defence; he believed with the gentleman from N. Carolina (Mr. R. Williams) "that slaves fight for masters, and freemen for liberty." He did not mean, he said, by this, to call any reflection upon hired soldiers; but he believed, that freemen, possessed of every thing valuable in society that liberty and good government could give, would always be ready to repel any invasion which may be attempted against them, and until Congress can be got together, he believed our militia would be perfectly competent to our defence; for, notwithstanding what had been said with respect to the incompetency of our militia, he would say that their services in our revolution proved the contrary. He would travel with gentlemen from the East to the South, and he was certain that the conduct of these degraded militia, during the war, might be compared with that of the regular army, without any dishonour to them.
Mr. B. said it was a very memorable circumstance, that in the arguments on this subject heretofore, and in private conversation, this provisional army was always laid to be wanted for the Southern parts of the Union. The Eastern States, it was observed, considered themselves as perfectly safe; but from their fraternal affection and abundant care for
their sister States, the gentlemen from those States wished to provide for the security of the Southern States. For it is a fact, that the desire for this army originates with gentlemen from the Eastward, who confess they do not want it for themselves, and the representatives of the Southern States, generally speaking, are opposed to an establishment of this kind. [Mr. DANA did not recollect that any gentleman had said the Eastern States were secure from invasion.] Mr. B. said, he knew that one of the most cogent reasons urged in favour of this army was, that the Southern States flood in need of them in order to quell any insurrection which might take place amongst the Blacks in those quarters. [Mr. SEWALL said he had made use of an expression which he believed had been misunderstood. He spoke of the militia of the Southern States as not being in so good order as those of the Eastern States, and that it would be better, therefore, for the President to have power to raise an army for the defence of those States, than that the militia should be marched from the Eastward for the purpose.] With respect to the disorganized state of the militia to the Southward, Mr. B. believed he could speak to that point as well as the gentleman from Massachusetts, and he could say, with truth, that the militia of the State which he represented was better organized now, than it was during the war, and it will be remembered that the greater part of the defence of that State was then performed by the militia. There were also at that time a greater proportion of Blacks than there are at this time, and the enemy with whom we had then to combat, offered as great inducements to alienate them as Victor Hughes, or any other person can do. Those States, however, not only kept the Blacks in subordination, but repulsed the invading enemy. He was willing to pledge his own responsibility in saying, that if the Southern States are suffered to remain as they are, they will be equal to their own defence. With respect to the disorganized state of the Southern militia, let him ask the gentleman from Massachusetts, and those who had reiterated the remarks, whether it was justified in their conduct in marching to suppress the insurrection which took place a few years ago in the western part of this State? It certainly was not, for when they were called out to carry into effect a law which was extremely obnoxious to them (he said extremely obnoxious, because none ever was more so than the Excise law to the people of Virginia) yet, notwithstanding the disorganized state of the militia of Virginia, notwithstanding they were called upon at a very short notice, they were ready sooner than the most sanguine expected them. And they were not then called upon to meet a foreign enemy, but their fellow citizens—men with whom they had fought side by side for their liberty and independence; yet, notwithstanding their disorganized state, they were capable of discerning the necessity of crushing an opposition to the execution of the laws.
As to a French invasion, and that it is necessary to have an army to prevent it, it is idle and vain to talk of it; it is a mere bugbear. Gentlemen who speak of this have surely forgotten the immense ocean which happily separates us from Europe, as well as the immense militia of the country. Let us, said he, go on and make the people salutary laws; let the people experience the blessings of a good government; convince them that every civil institution is intended to promote their happiness, and you will not require a standing army either to defend the country against internal or external enemies.
The gentleman from Massachusetts apprehends that France may invade us before we expect it. Because she has a large army on her coast, he supposes she may immediately transport them to our coast, and overwhelm us with them. But when he recollects the distance there is betwixt them and us, he must be convinced that the French have no means of transporting a large army here, except they employ balloons for the purpose. He believed the danger did not exist, nor did he believe there was any disposition in France to invade us. Even if the possess all that spirit of domination of which gentlemen speak, she need not pass a tempestuous ocean to exercise it, as there are much more convenient situations than this country, for her purpose, nearer home. If she be not restrained by moral considerations, therefore, those of convenience will be sufficiently operative.
Mr. Brent concluded by saying, that there could scarcely be any situation in which he should be induced to vote for raising a standing army, as he considered standing armies as the bane and destruction of free countries, and nothing but a situation of things which would make it essentially necessary, could prevail upon him to go into the measure. Not being alarmed to the extent which some gentlemen appear to be, he was willing to let things remain as they are; for he was no more apprehensive of an invasion, than he was apprehensive of being transported before night into the moon.
Mr. OTIS observed that this bill was objected to on the ground of its unconstitutionality, as if it were intended by it to delegate the power which belongs to Congress to raise an army to the President of the United States; whereas no such thing is intended—this army will not be raised by the President, but by this House. The bill was proposed, indeed, to be passed in a form which would make the raising of the army depend upon certain contingencies, to be judged of by the President—but he believed all the three contingencies perfectly definite in their nature. And he wished to know what difference there would be betwixt giving the President the power of raising this army, in case of a declaration of war, an invasion, or of there being imminent danger of invasion, and his calling Congress together for the purpose, in any of those events? And he would ask also whether, if it was the opinion of the President that the country was in imminent danger of being invaded, any gentleman would wish to take so much responsibility upon himself as to oppose the raising of an army.
Wherever absolute power was invested, there could be no doubt but that power might be executed upon a condition. If Congress could raise an army to-morrow, they certainly might order it to be raised in the manner proposed, as no member could ascertain the extent of danger for himself, he must in some measure depend upon the President for his information. The gentleman last up says the precedents which had been adduced produced no effect upon his mind, as error for ever remains error; but he believed that when once a pre-
cedent was established, the consequence of doing it away ought to be considered before it is reverted. If the acts in which this principle is recognized, be declared unconstitutional, what becomes of your present military establishment, of your galleries, &c? The whole laws and establishments must be dissolved. The present military force would be unconstitutional, all the money borrowed or loaned under these several laws would be null and void. —If this course was to be taken, some new mode of doing business must be invented.
Suppose, if instead of authorizing the President to raise an army in case certain contingencies take place, Congress were immediately to order the army to be raised, might they not say that the President should have power (as they had heretofore done) of forbearing to raise them, if, in his opinion, circumstances shall have so changed, as to make the army unnecessary? They certainly might, and the two powers amounted to the same thing.
Mr. O. said he should not follow gentlemen through all the remarks which they had made relative to the expediency of the present measure; but he would notice such as he thought had any weight. —It was said no invasion of this country could be expected, because it was neither in the power, nor was it the interest of France to invade this country. But there may be men in power in France who have an interest in it; and he should think it natural for them to conceive they had the power, if we declined to raise any force against them. Besides, if they think they can detach one part of our country from another, and that they have a strong party in their favour, they may invade the country, nor with a view of conquering it, but merely for the purpose of displacing the present Administration, and of fixing another in its stead, more to their taste. He did not himself think the French had the power of invading the country, nor did he think they would find it to be their interest, but perhaps they might not foresee this; and ought not a sufficient number of regular troops to be raised to give aid to the militia, and to impart to them discipline and courage? —Could there be any fear that the President would raise these men, if no danger threatened the country? He did not believe that this could be apprehended.
But it was said, that if the country was invaded, the Militia of the country would be competent to its defence. He was surprised to hear the position advanced. He believed the Militia of this country was as good as that of any other; but would any man say that Militia were able to stand against veteran soldiers? Was nothing due to discipline and experience? If we were invaded, would it be by militia men? No; it would be by men who would laugh at the idea of being opposed by militia. Militia might fight very well for a short time; but they could not be expected to be successful against regular troops. It was vain and idle, therefore, to talk of defence, except gentlemen would concur in raising an army. If an invasion was attempted, it would, be of great consequence that we should have experienced officers ready to take the field immediately.
The gentleman last up had defended on the invidious comparisons which had been made betwixt the Militia of the Eastern and Southern States. Every opinion which he had of the Southern militia, he had gathered from gentlemen from that quarter of the country. He had been informed that out of 7,000 militia in N. Carolina only 500 had arms, and when the Militia bill was under consideration, he understood that the Militia of that country was in a very indifferent state. And as he considered himself as much interested in the defence of the Southern as the Eastern States, all being a part of the common country whose interests he had to consider, he had as much right to consider what was necessary for the defence of those states as any other. He should be sorry to have that part of the Union overrun, and if it could be prevented by 10 or 15,000 troops, he should wish to raise them for the purpose. Not that the danger of invasion was confined to the southern country. It was quite as likely to take place to the eastward. The port of Newport was as likely to be attacked as any other in the Union; because if an enemy got possession of that port, they could go out and in when they liked, and extend their depredations to the southward or eastward at pleasure. But the gentleman from Virginia says, the militia of that State did wonders in the war. He did not wish to depreciate the militia, he was one of them himself; but though the Militia was very serviceable in the war, yet he did not think they were the principal defence of the southern country; they sometimes fought well, but they also sometimes ran away. —Indeed, he believed the idea was in every part of the world given up, that a Militia is equal to the complete defence of any country. And was nothing due to the opinion of other countries in this respect? Shall we, said he, stand still and say to our Enemy, "we know you cannot and will not invade us?" If we are not invaded, it will be because there will be no prospect of success; and except means of defence were taken, this prospect may not appear clear; for, however confident we may be in our Militia, we shall not be able to make the veteran troops of Europe believe that they can defend us. It was therefore worth a hundred times the expence of raising these troops, to change the opinion which may be entertained of our weakness in that part of the world, and to convince them that we mean to be prepared to meet any attack which may be made upon us.
But the gentleman from Pennsylvania had said, an invasion could not be expected during the present season. He had himself no idea of an invasion whilst the war continued in Europe; but if an end was put to that, it would be more likely that an attack should be made upon us during this season than at any other. When the army of England, as it is called, and the ships preparing to convey it, shall be no longer wanted for what was said to be their present object, nothing would be more easy than to send those soldiers and vessels either against this country, or to Louisiana, and he should consider one step pretty much the same as the other. After all that had been heard of the secret articles in the treaty betwixt France and Spain, such an event was not at all improbable; and if such an event were to take place, he believed more than either 10 or 15,000 men would be wanted.
He owned he had rather provision had been for 50,000 than 10,000 men, as no expence would be called for, except there was a necessity for raising the men, and if there was that necessity, he should wish the force to be sufficient for the purpose for which it was

raised. The only question at present was, whether, from a constitutional doubt which had no foundation, the house would refuse to give the President the power proposed, and by that means delay the raising of men, until the President should call Congress together, which would be at least two months after the danger appeared. In his opinion, this was no time for making these nice constitutional scruples, he thought the power ought to be given, or the army immediately raised. Indeed no army could be raised without giving to the President a certain degree of power. For his part, he thought as much discretion was given to the President when an army was ordered to be raised immediately, as in the mode proposed by this bill. And the power to raise an army, when a certain contingency shall take place, was by no means equal to the power placed in the President, of commanding the army when it is raised. Mr. O. hoped therefore the section would be retained.
Mr. McDOWELL was much better pleased with the amendment proposed by the select committee, than with the bill as it originally came from the Senate; but he had objections to the amendment on constitutional ground. He believed the power of determining the fit time to raise an army was vested in Congress, and could not be transferred. He did not wish to put it in the power of the President, or of any other man, or body of men, to appoint a large number of officers, and create a very heavy expense without necessity. Especially when he saw, from the communications which were before the house, that there was reason to believe, that if this power was given, the President would immediately appoint officers, and proceed to raise the men. If the situation of the country requires an army to be raised, he wished gentlemen to say so, and propose a resolution to that effect. For his own part, he did not believe the present situation of the country required it; but that the Militia was equal to the defence of the country, at least in the first instance. If we were invaded by a formidable foe, an establishment of the kind proposed, and to a much greater extent, might be necessary. But the gentleman left up says our Militia are wanting in discipline and arms, and indifferently officered, and therefore an army is necessary. He could not see himself how a change of name could make any difference in the competency of force. It was neither bounty, nor a coat that could make a soldier. If an invasion takes place, the Militia must be relied upon at the first. As to what the gentleman had said about the Militia being badly disciplined and officered, it might in some respects be true; but so far as it related to the Militia of N. Carolina, he would tell that gentleman that whoever were his informants, that the assertion was not correct. The Militia of that State had, in most instances, been able to repel any force which had come against them, with the assistance of but very few regulars. But suppose the gentleman had his 10,000 men, when they were distributed to different parts of the Union, it would afford but a small number to each, and the Militia must at least principally be depended upon. Except gentlemen wished, therefore, to faddle the country with a standing army, he thought they ought not to vote for this bill, as they must see how difficult it is to get rid of any force which has once been raised. Let them also recollect how much the appointment of a great number of officers in the army would increase the influence of the Executive, and consequently the dangerous effect it would have upon the liberty and independence of the country. The expense was a very considerable object, but that which had last named was, in his opinion still greater.
Gentlemen had spoken of the conversations which had taken place betwixt X, Y & Z, and our envoys in Paris, which they seemed to think threatened great dangers to this country. He owed he relied but little upon that inofficial information, which he could not consider as coming from the French nation. If the opinions of individuals in any country were to be taken and acted upon as the opinions of the nation of which they have formed a part, we should be continually in error; this might be judged of from what we see at home, for if the opinions of some individuals in this country, or the opinions which are issued from some of the presses here, were to be taken as the opinions of the country, and acted upon by the French government, we should think it a very extraordinary procedure. For his part he did not rely upon these communications, and he was persuaded this country would be secure from an invasion from France, from its not being in her power to undertake it, and if it were, that it would not be her interest to attempt it.
One word, Mr. M c D. said, with respect to the militia, and he had done. The gentleman left up said it was impossible that they could contend with old veteran troops. That gentleman, he believed, had himself never had any experience in fighting, and he depended too much upon names. He himself was acquainted with instances in which our militia had over-turned the greatest veterans; and if this was not sufficient, if the gentleman would recollect that some of the most brilliant achievements of the French armies, were accomplished by new, undisciplined troops, he would no longer insist upon his opinion that we must have a standing army to meet an invasion.
Mr. HARPER could not persuade himself that the arguments advanced against the unconstitutionality of the present bill, were capable of a serious reply; but with respect to the expediency of the measure, he thought there were some considerations worthy of notice, which had not yet been laid before the committee.
Gentlemen opposed to this measure, are constantly contrasting the services of the militia with those of regular troops. Nobody has said that the defence of the country ought to depend upon regular troops entirely, or upon the militia entirely, yet gentlemen argue as if the question was whether the country should be defended by the one or the other. They gave the force proposed to be raised, indeed, a name which does not belong to it, viz. that of a standing army. Was a body of troops raised only for three years, to be called a standing army? A regular force and a standing army are quite different things. A standing army is wholly in the power of the Executive of a country, and not liable to be put down; such an establishment would be alarming in this country, and it had been effectually prevented by the constitution, which declares that no appropriation for an army shall be made for more than two years.
Mr. H. said, he was strongly impressed
with the usefulness of militia; he believed they were the great strength of this country; but he did not believe they could be called into service with sufficient promptness, without the aid of regular troops, and gentlemen who speak of their experience cannot controvert this point. They say the militia might be called out to meet any predatory attack; but experience did not confirm this. It was well known that in sparse settled countries the militia could not be promptly called into service; in compact settlements, he knew the contrary was true. In that part of the country where this defence was most wanted, the settlement is very thin, and the militia not being used to act together, would, at first, make but an indifferent defence. In the late war the militia were almost constantly intermixed with regular troops, and he would not stop to say how often they were defeated notwithstanding.
It was also well known how long it took to organize these troops, and how much the enemy gained on account of these delays; yet we are to say, because our militia are brave, and the people are attached to their liberty, no other troops shall be employed in the defence of them but the militia. He knew that the people were attached to their right, and would defend them; but he also knew, that something more than a disposition to do it was necessary; they must have skill, and what is more important, they must have commanders. He himself belonged to one of the best corps of militia in South Carolina, which, though composed of persons who had the greatest stake in the country, wanted discipline, and was far from being prompt in obedience to orders. Indeed, he believed the militia only wanted the habits of soldiers to make them equal to regular troops. But gentlemen say, that there is no danger of an invasion from Europe, as France has neither troops nor ships for the purpose, being wholly engaged in her project against England. But are there no Frenchmen but in Europe? Did gentlemen look at the situation of the southern states? It was true the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Brent) had taken upon him to say that he would be responsible for the safety of the southern states, from the militia alone; but, though that gentleman might be well acquainted with the sea coast of Virginia, he believed he knew little of that between Charleston and Savannah. It was disagreeable to him to point out the weak places of the union, nor would he have done it, had not gentlemen spoken of the safety of that coast. Mr. H. then mentioned several places where attacks might be made with facility and success. We know, said he, that Victor Hughes and Toussaint have each of them considerable force, and though not sufficient perhaps to expel the troops from St. Domingo, they might be sufficient to send against our southern coast, and do considerable damage before any opposition could be made to them; except we had a few thousand regular troops stationed in that quarter; and if they were to get possession of Savannah or Charleston, they might do immense mischief before they could be dislodged. He believed it would be wise to prevent this mischief, and that would be most effectually done by giving the President the power proposed.
Besides, some regard was due to the feelings of the people in that part of the country; they are alarmed on account of their situation, and with Congress to take some measures for their defence. If they find the President is vested with the power of raising an army, they will be satisfied; but if they find themselves abandoned, however attached they may be to the government, this attachment may be destroyed by neglect. The gentleman from Pennsylvania may rest securely on the banks of the Monongahela, and the gentleman from Virginia in the thick settlements of that country, but they ought to recollect also the situation of these exposed people, and provide for their safety.
The Committee had been told by the gentleman from Pennsylvania that there was no danger to be apprehended in the Southern States, as the white population was equal to the defence of that country; but if he was well acquainted with the sea-coast of that country, he would know that the black population on the sea-coast is very great, and that there is a large tract of country full of saltiness and marshes between them and the white population, and that if once the blacks made a lodgement in these marshes, it would be difficult to drive them off. The people in this quarter expect, therefore, in any emergency, to receive aid from government; and unless they see a measure of this kind agreed to, they will be disheartened and their confidence in the Union will be much weakened.
Mr. H. concluded with hoping the motion to strike out the section would be negatived, as the force would not be called out without necessity, the President having to answer for his conduct on his responsibility; and if there should be imminent danger of an invasion, no one would say that this force ought to be called out.
A motion was made for the committee to rise. Mr. N. SMITH hoped the committee would not rise. This subject had already undergone one day's discussion and he doubted not by this time every gentleman had made up his mind on the subject. He wished, therefore, the question might be taken. The question was then put on the committee's rising, and negatived 48 to 35.
Mr. R. WILLIAMS then rose, and said if the committee were determined not to rise, he supposed they would be willing to attend to what was said on the subject. He could not have conceived that this question could have turned so much upon the disposition of members as to the propriety of defending the country. To discover which was the best way of defending the country, whether by a regular army or by a militia, was a subject well worthy of enquiry. In that point of view, he should consider the question; and therefore hoped that nothing which he should say, would be ascribed to a wish to oppose
any measure for the defence of the country. The gentleman from South Carolina had endeavoured to make a distinction betwixt the army proposed to be raised by this bill and a standing army; but immediately after, his arguments showed that he considered it in the same light as a standing army, as he said nothing short of this could effectually oppose an invasion of the country. For his part, he could not see how the calling these men a provisional army could make them so much more effective than in the form of militia. But the gentleman says, it is necessary for militia to have regular troops to lean upon. He be it said they were not the kind of defence which the people would wish to lean upon in case of an invasion. On the contrary, in such a case, he believed every man would wish to defend himself and family.
Mr. W. said, who are the persons intended to compose this provisional army? Are they men who have more natural ties to the country than those who compose the militia? No; they are taken from the streets of large cities; many of them are men without any attachment to the country at all, and perhaps possessed of but little principle. He must, therefore, give the preference to militia.
Gentlemen say this army is to be raised at the discretion of the President, and that it will not be formed unless the circumstances of the country require it; yet, at the same time, they go on to point out parts of the country which at this moment stand in need of defence. It therefore appeared to him, that gentlemen were of opinion that if this law passed, the President would immediately raise the men. The gentleman from S. Carolina says, he has received letters from his constituents speaking of their alarm. He had also received letters, but his constituents request that arms and ammunition might be furnished them, not that a standing army should be sent to defend them.
It was said, that this bill ought not to be objected to on constitutional ground, as Congress frequently empowered the President to do business which the constitution had vested solely in them; but gentlemen make no distinction between Congress determining a thing shall be done, and leaving it to the President to determine whether it shall or shall not be done. No person has said Congress could not authorize the President to raise an army for the defence of the country; but it was denied that the power could be transferred from Congress to him, to determine whether it should or should not be raised. Mr. W. believed the transferring of power from one department to another, was not only dangerous but embarrassed the proceedings of government. And it was also observable, that every instance of this kind was produced as a precedent for future deviations, and all objections to such a proceeding were opposed by saying, "it had been done before."
Mr. W. said, if Congress had a right to transfer this power, he wished gentlemen to show why they could not also transfer the power of declaring war; as they had not yet shown this, though before called upon to do it. Indeed, he should not be surprised if this power should be asked for on some future occasion.
The only difference which Mr. W. could see betwixt the provisional army when raised, and the present militia, was, that the former would have its officers under federal authority, and in the latter they would be appointed by the states. The men would in general be the same. What did this go to, but to say that the militia is not to be trusted under their present officers, there must be officers fixed by the general government.
The gentleman from Connecticut (Mr. Dana) had quoted several clauses of the Constitution, and made some criticisms upon them, and had endeavoured to make the supporters of the present motion ridiculous, by representing them as wishing to turn the members of this house into recruiting serjeants, brokers, tax gatherers, &c. In doing this, he believed he had suffered himself to metamorphose the Constitution, so as to make it mean any thing or nothing, instead of construing it in a liberal manner.
The same gentleman says, he should have no objection to raise the proposed army immediately, but the expense. Was it not rather that he wished to place a power in the President to exercise, which he supposes he will immediately exercise, but which he apprehends Congress would not be prevailed with to exercise at present? For his own part, if an army was to be raised, he wished to raise it in the way pointed out by the Constitution. It was said that if this army was raised, it might at any time be disbanded, when it should cease to be wanted; but when he heard gentlemen say they wished this army rather to consist of 50,000 men, than 10,000, and knew the difficulty attending the breaking up of any thing which was once established, he was desirous of avoiding a measure which he believed to be wholly unnecessary. The geographical situation of this country, said Mr. W. is such, that a standing army of 200,000 men would not be able to defend it. It was idle, therefore, to suppose the country could be very much benefitted by the raising of 10,000 men. But the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. HARPER) full speaks of the men being necessary for the defence of the southern country. That gentleman may think them necessary for the defence of some part of his state, but he could not believe them to be necessary for the defence of any part of the state to which he (Mr. W.) belonged. His constituents never wished to see a standing army sent amongst them. Instead of looking upon such men as their defence, they would consider them as the greatest curse that could come upon them. Why, then, will gentlemen continually insist upon these men being wanted for the southern states, when no member from those states will say they wish to have them, except one gentleman (Mr. HARPER). And though the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. OTIS) was so obliging as to say he should wish to take the
same care of the southern states as the eastern, he could assure that gentleman he might make himself perfectly easy as to their safety.
Mr. W. concluded with repeating his hope that the section would be struck out.
Mr. FINDLEY said this bill certainly proposed a transfer of power to the President, which was lodged by the constitution in Congress, and therefore he was opposed to it. The gentleman from South Carolina denied that the army proposed to be raised by this bill could be considered as a standing army, because the bill was only to be passed for three years. Upon the same ground it might be said, that Great-Britain has no standing army, as their military establishment law is passed annually. Mr. F. was of opinion, that if this bill was now passed, the men could not be raised; if officers, he had no doubt, would. At the commencement of our revolution, when every breath glowed with enthusiasm in the cause in which we were engaged, there was a difficulty in getting men. We might, as he had said, get an army of officers, but would they, when got, be equal to the militia officers? He doubted it. If the army was to be increased, it would be necessary to increase the wages of the men. Militia, he said, was the natural force of the country, and the raising of 10,000 men would not prevent them from coming forward in defence of their country, when danger appeared. He was himself got too old for service, but he had sons whom he believed would be ready to fly with their fellow citizens to the defence of their country in case of invasion.
After a few words from Mr. DAVIS in favour of the committee's rising, and from Mr. N. SMITH against it, the question on rising was put and carried 45 to 36.
Adjourned, half past four.
FRIDAY—MAY 4.
Debate on granting leave to Mr. Pinckney to receive certain presents.
(Continued from Saturday's Gazette.)
Mr. W. Claiborne submitted to the gentleman from Delaware, as a lawyer, whether the committee could gather, from anything before the house, that these presents made by foreign courts, consisted of chains or snuff-boxes? He owned he could draw no such conclusion for himself. But whatever the present may be was immaterial to him in the present question, because he was convinced that nothing which an European monarch had in his power to give, could lessen the patriotism of our late minister, or alienate his affections from his country. It was not to the amount of the present, and whether it was a snuff-box, or any thing else, which was a thing of no consequence, and ought not to have been named. He objected to the principle of our foreign ministers receiving presents at all from European monarchs; this principle he looked upon as the more dangerous, because it opened an avenue to foreign influence—an influence amongst monarchs, too, which has always proved the destruction of Republics.
Notwithstanding what had fallen from the gentleman from Delaware, he was convinced the gentleman from South Carolina would not think himself authorized to receive these presents, without the authority of Congress, were they offered to him as a private citizen, as they were certainly meant as a compliment to him as minister. As to what had been said by the gentleman from Delaware, with respect to the present of a snuff-box, or picture, being precedents which would lead to the granting of titles, what he said, was, that the precedent would authorize the application for leave to accept of a title, at some future period, which would introduce a discussion on that floor, whether it ought to be received or not, and thereby disgrace the country in the eyes of every enlightened citizen.
Mr. Thatcher was in favour of the resolution. Gentlemen seemed opposed to it on the ground of its establishing a precedent for the future. He did not think this objection founded; for, as the constitution does not absolutely forbid the receiving of presents, the discussion on the propriety of allowing it in future would not be prevented by the present decision. Future houses could refuse or grant leave to receive these presents, and the constitution did not absolutely take away the right. He considered the gentleman who now applied to Congress as having a natural right to receive a present except some reason was shewn to the contrary. Gentlemen allow they knew of no special reason; they allow the applicant has done the business with which he was entrusted, well. He supposed, therefore, that gentlemen must themselves vote for it, except they abandon their own ground.
But the gentleman from Tennessee had said, the resolution ought to be disagreed to, in order to stop the avenues to corruption from foreign courts. For his part, he could see no connection betwixt a decision on this question and corruption; for whether it was agreed to, or disagreed to, it would not take away the power from ministers to receive presents, if they were so disposed.
But it was said, that to agree to this resolution, would lead to the granting of titles. Suppose, said Mr. T. a title should be applied for, and leave granted, and a foreign power should create a duke or a count of a citizen of this country, what could it be, but to make him and his posterity for ever ridiculous? As he saw no evil which could arise from agreeing to this resolution, he should vote for it.
Mr. R. Williams hoped by the vote of this day, the house would get rid of future applications of this kind. When the subject was first introduced, he was opposed to it; but, if the question had gone off without debate to-day, he intended to have voted for it. From the discussion which had taken place, however, he was convinced it was a subject upon which they ought not to legislate, since the acting upon it, would produce greater evils than the constitution had provided against. He believed they ought here to put a stop to the business. If not, he would rather that our ministers should be
at liberty to receive all the presents offered to them, than that the thing should stand upon its present footing.
The gentleman left up, had endeavoured to shew the determination upon the present question would not set an example for the future. It was his wish to fix a principle upon this subject, and he had no doubt this decision would do it.
It had been said, that the gentleman who made this application, had a right to receive these presents, without this application. Why, then, was the application made?—Ought Congress to be called upon every year to discuss questions which would cost the union 2 or 3000 dollars every year, if the right of receiving the presents existed independent of Congress. This, he believed, would be spending the money of the public in a way which would not be very well approved. As this was the first application which had been made since the existence of the present government, for this leave, it was the proper time for Congress to say, they will, or will not countenance the practice of receiving these presents. Our ministers, he said, would be obliged by such a determination, as if the decision was against the practice, they would no longer be troubled with the offers of presents, or if they had them offered, they could, without hesitation, decline the acceptance of them; but, if this was not done, there would be no end of the business. If this motion should not be negatived, if he should be here, another session, he would propose the passing of a law to authorize our ministers to receive these presents, except there should appear some particular objection to such a law.
Mr. Lyon said, he had heard much about American feelings. He had some of those feelings himself, and they taught him neither to approve directly or indirectly of the practice of foreign governments paying our public agents. If the gentleman from South Carolina had not been well paid for his services, he should be willing to pay him more; but he should not be willing to lay this country under an obligation to a foreign country, or to make similar returns to their ministers. It was said, the gentleman from South Carolina might receive these presents now, without the consent of Congress. If he chose to risk his own character by doing so, Congress had nothing to do with it; but for Congress to authorize any such thing, in his opinion, would be a shameful business.
Mr. Bayard would tell the gentleman from Tennessee on what authority he informed the committee that the presents in question consisted of what he had mentioned. Being upon the committee to whom this subject was referred, he made some enquiry as to what were the usual presents, from the European courts, and found, that in Holland, it was customary to give a gold chain and medal; in France, a gold snuff-box; and in Spain a picture. It was on this ground that he said these things were of no consequence. Mr. B. then remarked upon what had fallen from Mr. R. Williams, with respect to the expense incurred in discussing this subject, and said it had been owing to gentlemen opposing the resolution that so long a discussion had taken place, as to the law which that gentleman proposed to introduce, he must see that the constitution would not admit of such a law.
But some gentlemen were opposed to this resolution, because it was supposed the United States would be obliged to reciprocate the favor to ministers who were sent to this country; and some gentleman had seized the occasion of saying that few of these ministers were deserving of any such present. But because these gentlemen may be dissatisfied with the conduct of foreign ministers resident here, they ought not to injure our own minister, whom all allow has essentially served his country. He did not think this the proper place to discuss the propriety of making presents to foreign ministers. When Congress were called upon to act in this matter, then would be the proper time for gentlemen to make their stand upon it, and say the allowance should, or should not be made. He did not think the thing followed of course. He hoped, therefore, the resolution would be agreed to.
(To be continued.)
*** The SEVENTH VOLUME of this Gazette has been lent by the Editor—to whom is not recollected; it is requested it may be returned.
FOR SALE.
A neat Country House, THREE and a half miles from the city, on the Willishon road, with seventeen and a half acres of land, half in orchard and half in grain.—Apply to EDWARD BONSALL & Co. in Dock-street, or to the subscriber at Mount Pleasant, on Schuylkill, adjoining the premises. Jonathan Williams.
N. B. If not sold before the first of June, it will not be for sale during the season. may 19
Very Great Bargains,
CONSISTING of Table Linen, Scotch and India Muslins, now selling off and well worth the attention of Housekeepers to make purchase of.—Enquire of Thomas Randall, No. 88 Spruce-Street. may 17
TO BE RENTED,
To a Small Genteel Family. A Pleasant House in Dock-street, near Front-Street—Apply at No. 135 South Second-Street. may 29
FOR SALE,
The cargo of the brig American from Laguira, CONSISTING OF Caraccas Cocoa. Henry Philips, No. 112, South Fourth Street. april 23
TO BE SOLD,
By JOHN NIXON & Co. A few hds. of excellent St. Croix SUGAR and RUM, which will be landed at Willings and Francis' wharf next Monday, the 21st instant. may 16
35c. cost.

The Gazette.
PHILADELPHIA,
MONDAY EVENING, MAR. 21.
Pennsylvania Hospital, 5th month 14, 1798. At a meeting of the managers, a letter was read of which the following is a copy.
To the Managers. GENTLEMEN, There having been published in the newspapers, a piece intimating, that the plan of the Pennsylvania Hospital has not been approved by the contributors: Also, that the late doctor Franklin left a considerable legacy, which has added to the funds of this institution, of which no account has been given to the public, we request of you, in order to remove any improper impressions, that may have been made on the minds of the people, to the prejudice of the hospital, in respect to the said plan and legacy to publish in one of the newspapers of the city, the extract of doctor Franklin's will, with the minute made by the managers, on the 31st of the 5th month, and the 28th of the 6th month 1790, also the minutes of the contributors on the said will dated the 13th of the 7th month 1790 together with the minutes of the contributors made at their special meeting, the first of the 6th month 1794, respecting the plan of the new building.
Signed by eighteen Contributors. Whereupon it was agreed, that the Secretary should cause the will and minutes therein mentioned to be published in one of the papers.
Extracted from the minutes of a board of managers. SAMUEL COATES, Clerk. Pennsylvania Hospital, 5th mo. 3, 1790. At a meeting of the managers, the following extract of doctor Benjamin Franklin's will dated the 7th of July 1788, was now produced viz.
"During the number of years I was in business as a stationer, printer and post-master, a great many small sums became due to me for books, advertisements, postage of letters, and other matters which were not collected, when in 1757, I was sent by the Assembly to England as their agent, and by subsequent appointments continued there until 1775, when on my return, I was immediately engaged in the affairs of Congress, and sent to France in 1776 where I remained nine years, not returning till 1785, and the said debts, not being demanded in such a length of time, are become in a manner obsolete, yet are nevertheless justly due. These as they are stated in my great folio ledger E, I bequeath to the contributors to the Pennsylvania Hospital, hoping, that those debtors, and the descendants of such as are deceased, who now, as I find make some difficulties of satisfying such antiquated demands as just debts, may, however be induced to pay or give them as charity, to that excellent institution. I am sensible that much must inevitably be lost, but I hope something considerable may be recovered. It is possible too, that some of the parties charged, may have existing old unsettled accounts against me, in which case the managers of the said hospital will allow and deduct the amount, or pay the balance if they find it against me. Extracted literally from the last will of the late Dr. Benjamin Franklin dated 17th of July 1788. HENRY HILL, executor. The circumstances under which this legacy is left to the contributors being considered, it is agreed that, it will be improper to conclude either to accept or reject it, without further consideration; for the present, the board appoint Elliston Paine and Cornelius Barnes, to take off from Benjamin Franklin's ledger E, the several balances due thereon, which committee are requested to obtain what information they can, respecting the debts and to call a special meeting to report. At a meeting of the managers 6 mo. 28, 1790 The committee appointed to examine the ledger of the late Dr. Benjamin Franklin and to report thereon, now produced a statement of the several accounts, arranged in alphabetical order, on the whole of which there appears a balance due to his estate, of five thousand five hundred and eight pounds fourteen shillings and one penny. They also report, they find divers blank debts and credits, the amount of which they are not able to ascertain; the committee further report, they called on several of the persons, who appear to be in debt, some of whom say they have accounts against the doctor, exceeding considerably his demands against them; others lay the estate of their predecessors have been settled many years since, and division made so that they cannot consent to admit of any such antiquated claims. Upon the whole the committee conceive there is no probability of the legacy being productive, because the act of limitation applies against all the demands on the authority of this ledger, and it being a condition annexed to the bequest, that the balance should be paid by the contributors if any should be due from the testator's estate, the managers therefore cannot accept of this gift, at the risk of paying the debts of the deceased, unless the contributors require them to do it: And therefore, in order to know their opinion, and to be enabled to pursue their directions, it is agreed that the clerk shall advertise a general meeting of the contributors to be held at the hospital on third day, the thirteenth of the seventh month next, at 3 o'clock in the afternoon in order to lay before them, an extract of the will, for them to proceed thereon as they may apprehend the occasion requires. At a meeting of the managers, the 26th of the 7th month 1790 the clerk reported that he advertised the contributors to meet to consider of Dr. Franklin's legacy, who accordingly met and made the following minutes on the subject, viz. Pennsylvania Hospital, 7 mo. July 13, 1790. At a general meeting of the contributors held this day at the Hospital, pursuant to law, public notice thereof being given in two of the newspapers of the city of Philadelphia, advertising them to meet for the purpose of considering of a legacy left to the contributors for the use of the institution by Dr. Benjamin Franklin deceased, and to determine what is proper to be done on the occasion, the following contributors were present—TWENTY-TWO MEMBERS. An extract from their list will and testament of Dr. Benjamin Franklin was produced by the managers and read—The minutes of the managers respecting this case were then read and likewise the report of the committee appointed by them, to adjust the balances of the said ledger, and the answers they received from a number of persons to whom they have applied, and who appear to be in debt. An alphabetical list of the debts taken by the same committee was also inspected, and a general view of the ledger taken by the contributors, from which it appears, that many of the debts are small; numbers of them are due from persons unknown, and all of them are from thirty to sixty years old, which precludes every hope of recovering as much as will answer the demands exhibited against the deceased. It is therefore the unanimous opinion of the contributors present, that this legacy cannot with propriety be accepted—Nevertheless, being gratefully sensible of the active part which Dr. Franklin took in promoting this institution, and having experienced the benefit of his benevolent exertions on various occasions, they lament the necessity they are under of declining to accept of a legacy, from which the Dr. expects a hope that something considerable might be recovered; but which the contributors have good reason to believe, will not be the case—Under these impressions it is agreed that the managers should return the ledger to Dr. Franklin's executors with a copy of this minute. Signed in behalf and by desire of the contributors. JAMES PEMBERTON, President. Witness SAMUEL COATES, Clerk. Agreeably to the above cited minute the managers appoint Elliston Paine, Cornelius Barnes and the treasurer, to return Dr. Franklin's ledger to his executors with a copy of the minute which the contributors made on the occasion. Pennsylvania Hospital, June 30, 1790. The committee report, they returned to Henry Hill, one of the executors of Dr. Franklin the ledger with the minutes of the contributors agreeably to directions. Published by order of a board of managers, at the request of eighteen contributors. SAMUEL COATES, Clerk. The minute relating to the plan of the new buildings will appear in a future paper. At a numerous and respectable meeting of the citizens of Kent County in the State of Delaware, held at the Court House in the town of Dover, on Tuesday the 8th day of May 1798, in pursuance of previous notice for that purpose given, Richard Basset, Esq. was unanimously chosen Chairman, and Joseph Hale, Secretary. Resolved, That the instructions given by the President of the United States to our Envoys to the French Republic be now read. The instructions were accordingly read. Resolved, That it is the sense of this meeting that the administration of the President of the United States deserves the highest approbation of every citizen of the United States. Resolved, That a Committee of five be appointed to draw up an Address to the President of the United States, expressive of the sentiments contained in the foregoing resolution. Whereupon Nicholas Ridgely, John Vining, Samuel White, Elijah Barrat and John Laws were appointed for that purpose. The Committee retired, and having returned, reported an address, which was read; whereupon it was unanimously Resolved, That the said address be signed by the Chairman in behalf of the foregoing meeting, and be transmitted by him, together with these resolutions to the President of the United States. A true Copy from the Minutes. JOSEPH HALE, Secretary. To the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Sir, WITH a solicitude equal to the important and interesting crisis which at this time agitates the public mind, added to a most sincere desire to convince the world, that no domestic divisions, or foreign machinations, aimed at the independence of our country, or intended to commit its honor, can ever succeed; we, the Inhabitants of Kent county in the state of Delaware, convened at Dover, beg leave to convey to you our most sincere and entire approbation of the wise, firm, and conciliatory measures you have pursued to secure the blessings of peace, and to preserve unfulfilled and undiminished the safety, honor and independence of the United States. As the constitutional organ of the United States, to settle and adjust differences with foreign nations, we feel no hesitation in declaring what we firmly believe, that you have done every thing to restore harmony, and continue the tranquility of our country, that wisdom, policy and patriotism could possibly effect. Under this view of your administration, much as we deprecate the calamities of war, yet when national disgrace and a tame submission to the most immeasurable insults and aggressions on the part of the French Republic, become the only alternative, we can lately offer you our most unqualified assurances,—that as Americans who understand the blessings of liberty and a good government, we shall never hesitate a moment in our choice. To avert these evils, we are sorry to find that the most salutary measures which wisdom and sincerity could prescribe, have not only been frustrated and disregarded, but insulting y repelled and defeated by the balet attempts to extort from our country, even without a prospect of retribution, immense sums of money. In every event, Sir, convinced of your wisdom, energy, and patriotism, we not only engage our utmost support in the measures which government may ultimately adopt; but in case of an unavoidable appeal to arms, we pledge ourselves to stand in constant readiness, firmly to oppose, at all hazards, every enemy, whom either a mistaken policy, lust of dominion, or love of plunder, may induce to viol our rights, or in any manner to invade the peace, liberty or independence of our country. That the Ruler of the universe may guide and protect the councils and government of the United States, and long preserve your valuable life, is the sincere prayer of our hearts. Signed by order of the meeting, RICHARD BASSETT, Chairman. To the Citizens of Kent County in the State of Delaware. Gentlemen, Your resolutions and address unanimously adopted at Dover on the 8th of May, have been presented to me, by one of your Senators in Congress, M. Latimer, and by your representative, Mr. Bayard. I thank you for your sincere and entire approbation of the measures pursued to secure the blessings of peace and to preserve unfulfilled and undiminished the safety, honor and independence of the United States. Americans who know that the blessings of liberty, and a good government can never be enjoyed under national disgrace, and a tame submission to the most immeasurable insults and aggressions, can never hesitate a moment in their choice of measures. When you engage your utmost support, to the measures which government may ul-
timately adopt, against the mistaken policy, lust of dominion, or love of plunder, which may violate our rights or invade the peace, liberty and independence of our country, you give every assurance which the government can desire. That supreme wisdom may guide, and Divine power protect the Councils and arms of the United States, and long preserve and prosper the citizens of Kent is the prayer of
JOHN ADAMS. Philadelphia, May 11, 1798.
CONGRESS.
On Saturday, the House of Representatives of the United States, went into a committee of the whole on the bill re. giving loan-office certificates and final settlement certificates, inlets of interest, and the unfunded or registered debt credited on the books of the Treasury. After filling the blanks, which was done without much debate, the committee rose, and the house having concurred in the amendments, the bill was ordered to be engrossed. This bill suspends to much of the act as bars, the settlement of the above securities for one year, and provides for the payment of them, and the unfunded and registered debt on the books of the treasury. Several reports of a private nature were taken up, and disposed of. The house adjourned a little before two.
The following bill more effectually to protect the commerce and coasts of the United States, is now before the Senate:
WHEREAS armed vessels belonging to the Republic of France and citizens thereof, have committed depredations on the commerce of the United States, and have recently captured the vessels and property of citizens thereof, on and near the coasts, in violation of the law of nations, and treaties, between the United States and the French nation, Therefore—Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, and he is hereby authorized to instruct and direct the commanders of the armed vessels belonging to the United States to seize, take and bring into any port of the United States, to be proceeded against according to the laws of nations, any armed vessel, fitted out at any port belonging to the said republic, or elsewhere, being commissioned by the French government, and which shall be found hovering on the coasts of the United States, for the purpose of committing depredations on the vessels belonging to citizens thereof—and also to retake any ship or vessel of any citizen or citizens of the United States which may have been captured by any such French cruiser.
Extract of a letter from Jeremie, dated 28th April, 1798.
"Orders have been received from the king and council for the evacuation of Port-au-Prince, St. Marks, L'Archaye, &c. In consequence of which, a proclamation has been issued by the commander in chief to the inhabitants, to hold themselves in readiness to leave these places immediately. All the American shipping are pressed into the service, and may be detained two or three months. The brigand war in this quarter is not over, but no apprehension whatever is entertained here of the enemy, and we are to be reinforced by the troops from above, with the commander in chief, general Maitland. All vessels in the British ports are embargoed!"
Extract of a letter from a passenger on board the schooner Poll, now at the fort.
"In consequence of an order from England they have begun the evacuation of Port-au-Prince, which is to be followed by St. Marks, and L'Archaye, for which purpose an embargo is laid on all shipping in the British possessions in St. Domingo, and all vessels calculated to carry passengers or goods, are impressed for Port-au-Prince, there to wait orders. I failed with them in the schooner Poll, on the same errand, but we lost the convoy on the 1st May off the Caymtes, in company with the brig Polly of Philadelphia—as I suppose it will take at least two months in evacuating those places, there is little reason to expect the embargo off before that time; there have been several actions in the grand Ance lately, in which the British troops have behaved with their usual bravery. The ship Nathaniel Bayley, Campbell, of Philadelphia, arrived safe at the Mole, on or about the 16th of April, and is I suppose embargoed there."
His Excellency William Beutnick, who was appointed to the government of the island of St. Vincent, in the room of Governor Scott, opened the session on Tuesday the 6th ult. with a long speech, in which, among other matters, he particularly recommends the adoption of a well regulated militia, the building of a healthy court house and jail, as well as a government house.
The account in Bache's Aurora, of orders having been received (from their respective Courts) prohibiting the French and Spanish privateers from capturing any more American vessels is absolutely false. Mr. Yznardi's letter (alluded to in this false statement) contains nothing to that effect.
Marryed—on Saturday evening last, by the Rev. Dr. Rogers, Mr. Robert Maull of this city, to Miss Mary Eagle, daughter of Mr. Joseph Eagle, of the Northern Liberties.
GAZETTE MARINE LIST.
Table with 3 columns: PORT OF PHILADELPHIA, ARRIVED, CLEARED. Lists ship names, destinations, and departure details.
Time, Course, Baltimore. Sloop Hero, Willie. Brig Sally, Brown, Montego Bay 25 days for here on the 6th May, brig Defiance, Scott, of New-York, bound to Savannah, 14 days, out 33. 55. long 74. 20. May 9. Sloop a Swedish ship, (from) Hamburg bound to New-York, lat. 37. 30. Arrived, schr. Veneta, capt. Roberts, from St. Ja. de Cuba; spoke an English privateer belonging to Providence. American prizes at St. Jago—BRIGS. Ann, of Saybrook, cleared. Grace, of N. York, condemned; Augustus, of Portsmouth, for trial—SCHOONERS. Yeoman of Philadelphia, cleared. Fair Play, of Carolina, do. Lewis, of N. York, do. Indulgence, of Carolina, for trial—SLOOP. Abigail, of Portland cleared. List of American vessels laying at Leguaya 16th April. SHIPS. Henrietta, capt. Wicks, to sail for Norfolk in 14 days; Rosanne, of Edenton, capt. Payne, to sail for Ocracoke in 20 days—BRIGS. Eliza, capt. Campbell, to sail for Philadelphia in three weeks—SCHR. Bee, to sail for Newbury in six days. A ship from New-York, for Hull, out 13 days, was spoke from 63.
Baltimore, May 18. Schrs. Molly, capt. Wife, 28 days from Petit Guave. Left there, brig Harmony, Shaw of Baltimore, to sail in 8 days; schrs. Thomas, of do. to sail in 8 day; Ruth, Beck, to sail for do. in 12 days; brig Molly, of Philadelphia. The brig Polly, capt. Ogden, and schr. Hawk of this port, were at Miraguane April 29, off the east end of Miraguane spoke an English letter of Marque, who informed capt. Wife, that an American brig had run aground on the west end of Miraguane, and that the La Pompee, English frigate, was afflicting them in taking out their cargo.
NANTUCKET, May 8. Yesterday arrived, the sloop Nancy, Marshall, from Whale Cruise in the West Indies, 30 bbls. The conduct of the French Cruisers, even towards whalemens such, as to oblige them to leave the West-Indies, as they carry them in obligation to stand trial, and if acquitted, to pay costs.
By this day's Mail.
BOSTON, May 15. (AUTHENTIC.) Consular Office of the United States of America, Amsterdam, March 20. MR. Benjamin Russell, Boston, SIR,
I AVAIL myself of the first opportunity to acquaint you that the ship America, Capt. Henshaw, from New-York, lately brought in here by a French cruiser, has been immediately released by the Consul of that nation; and I am happy to add, that every thing will be done here to support and protect the intercourse with the United States.
My letters by the last mail from Paris mention, that our envoys have lately had several conferences with the minister of foreign affairs—result not known—I am, your obedt. servt.
SYLVANUS BOURNE. Another letter from the above gentleman says, that Mr. Gerry had informed him, that the Envoys had had three conferences with the minister of Foreign Affairs, and that the negotiation appeared to be in good train.
The America capt. Henshaw was we learn, bound to Amsterdam, and carried in there. It is to be observed that Mr. Bourne's letter does not mention the time when the conference took place. It may therefore refer to those mentioned in the dispatches which have been published. His letter does not say that these conferences were formal, or that our envoys had been officially received or accredited. It is said that on the 19th February, no answer had been returned to the memorial presented on the 31st January—and though government received by the same vessel which brought Mr. Bourne's letter, dispatches from our minister at the Hague, they do not confirm the Boston intelligence.
A Spanish fleet, consisting of two 90 gun ships, three 74's and three frigates, arrived at Porto-Rico from Spain, on the 10th April, having, under convoy about 60 sail of merchantmen.
The British have ten ships of war on the American coast, in search after French cruisers.
REPRESENTATIVES.
On Monday evening, the Federal citizens of this town, met at Concert Hall, and agreed on a list of Representatives for the ensuing year, to be supported yesterday. A committee of 40 was chosen to distribute votes; and the result, as follows, will show that the Ticket was very successful. The whole No. of votes was 1296—of which 649 made a choice. The votes were for Joseph Russell, jun. Esq. - 1058 Arnold Welles, jun. Esq. - 1048 William Smith, Esq. - 1027 John Codman, Esq. - 979 John Lowell, jun. Esq. - 896 Mr. Samuel Cobb, - 875 Colonel Joseph May, - 840 The 7 composed the Concert Hall Ticket. Dr. William Luffis, 498. Besides a number of scattering votes as usual, none of which, except one, was higher than 13.
The spirited address from the young men of Boston, which would do honor to the pen of a Junius, and to the spirit and firmness of an Adams, has received above eleven hundred signatures. Our patriotic Seamen flock to join the Constitution's flag. Portland has petitioned Congress for an aid of 10,000 dollars, for fortifying that port.
SHOCKING ACCIDENT. On Saturday last, at Malden, the following unfortunate event took place;—As Mr. John Hanock, was sitting in a chair after dinner, sportively instructing a young man, who had taken up a gun, which had been charged the day before, in the manual exercise; and when Mr. H. directed him to take aim and fire, he received the contents into his head, which instantly put an end to his existence, at. 37. Let this be a solemn caution to young people, how they sport with arms, and heedlessly trifle with instruments of death.
BALTIMORE, May 18. This forenoon, between the hours of ten and eleven, the ship Commerce, lying at Fall's Point, the property of Mr. John Stark, was discovered to be on fire. A number of citizens, with engines, went to her assistance, by whose active exertions the flames were extinguished. Not having been on board we cannot state the loss sustained, which must, no doubt, be considerable. This accident is said to have been occasioned by a man's boiling pitch in the caboose.
Yesterday evening, about dusk, a fire broke out in a framed dwelling-house in Dock-alley, belonging to Mr. Philip Hall, which was entirely consumed.
NORFOLK, May 12.
Fatal effects of Duelling. We regret in having to relate, that on Wednesday night, departed this transitory life, capt. BUTLER of Philadelphia. His death was understood, was occasioned by a loaded gun, which took place from a ball lodged in the back of his hand by one Watson, and of which we gave an account on the 21st ult. His remains were attended to the burying ground on Thursday by a number of respectable citizens. Notwithstanding every possible enquiry has been made, no one can tell who Watson is, or where he is to be found. The deceased never was in his company but the night before this unfortunate duel, which took place on account of their differing in politics!
Macpherson's Blues.
A NUMBER of the Members of this Corps, taking into view the critical situation of their country, propose to their brother soldiers to meet at Mr. Dunwoody's, in Market-Street, at 5 o'clock this afternoon.
This day Published, AND FOR SALE, AT
WM. YOUNG'S Book-store, No. 52, Chestnut, corner of Second Street, On fine new Paper, with Elegant Engravings, Dedicated to the PRESIDENT of the United States.
The Studies of Nature,
Translated from the French of James Henry Bernadin de St. Pierre, By HENRY HUNTER, D. D. This very ingenious, interesting and instructive work, has since its first publication, gone through four successive impressions, under the author's immediate inspection; besides a variety of printed editions in different parts of the European continent.
No book displays a more sublime theology, inculcates a purer morality, or breathes a more ardent and expansive philanthropy. St. Pierre enables us to contemplate this universe with other eyes; has furnished new arguments to combat atheism; has established, beyond the power of contradiction, the doctrine of a universal providence, has excited a warmer interest in favor of suffering humanity, and has discovered sources, unknown before of moral and intellectual enjoyment.
The avidity with which the clergy and other learned characters in New-England, have purchased the English edition of this delightful performance, and the opinion entertained by them; and warranted by experience, that although written before the "Age of Reason," a part of it contains a more solid and complete refutation of it, than any thing published since, are perhaps a sufficient recommendation of the STUDIES OF NATURE; in which the Botanist, the natural and christian Philosopher, the friend of order and government are equally interested, and by which they will be equally gratified.
As no pains nor expense have been spared in procuring handsome paper and able artists, to render the work worthy of the public; and as the subscribers have expressed their approbation of it, the publisher flatters himself, that gentlemen, who on account of the bad paper and print of some American editions, give generally the preference to the English, will honor this with a comparison, before they purchase.
The Naval Gazetteer;
Being a complete Geographical Dictionary, containing a full and accurate account, alphabetically arranged, of all the Countries & Islands in the known world; showing their latitude, longitude, and station for anchorage; with a particular description of the several Bays, Capes, Channels, Coves, Creeks, Currents, Gulfs, Harbors, Havens, Lakes, Oceans, Rivers, Roads, Rocks, Sands, Shoals, Sounds, Straits, Tides, Variation of the Compass, &c. Together with a particular relation of the state and appearance at sea, of the several Headlands, Isthmuses, Peninsulas, Points, Promontories, and whatever is of use or importance to the Master, Pilot, Commander or Seaman of any ship or vessel, in navigating the watery element.
Also, Comprehending Ample directions for falling into or out of the different Ports, Straits and Harbor of the four quarters of the world; and for avoiding dangers on the various and extended coast; in which more than twelve thousand distinct named places, &c. are treated of and explained. With a correct list of Charts, & vols. 8vo. By the Rev. JOHN MALLAM.
This has been pronounced the most useful and the cheapest book published in America. It was undertaken several years since, under the auspices of Lord Sandwich while he was at the head of the Admiralty of England, and from which every assistance necessary to complete so arduous a work, was readily furnished, but it never made its appearance until last year. The favor it obtained with Masters of vessels and other gentlemen concerned in Navigation induced the publisher to prepare this edition wherein the American Ports, Harbors, &c. have been corrected by a gentleman of great abilities, and extensive information on the subject. may 21.
DOCTOR SHEED,
WHO formerly lived in Carter's Alley, is requested to call at the House of Mr. VAN SKIVER, in Race Street, between Ninth and Tenth Street, where he will hear of a person who earnestly begs his assistance in a case of a very dangerous nature. may 21.
Cavalry Academy Philadelphia.
T SWANN, Respectfully informs the different troops of Light Horse in this city and country that he is ready to engage with them to discipline them in Horsemanship and Horses agreeable to the British rules of art; his manage, open riding, Leaping Bars, Stables &c. are in complete order.
The terms will be exceedingly low. Should a large number offer, the charge to each individual will be a mere nothing, though the quantity may make it worth his attention, which will at all times strictly be paid; and he flatters himself that such troops as he may have the honor to instruct or superintend, will amply speak for themselves, having proof for their evidence. N. B. T. SWANN has engaged the celebrated Prussian Hussar, Lewis D. Grafle, to teach the use of the Broad Sword and small arms, on easy terms, either by the week, month or quarter. may 21.

Will be sold for Cash, At eight o'clock on the Evening of MONDAY the eleventh day of June next, at the Merchants' Coffee house, in Philadelphia, if not previously disposed of at private sale.
THE FOLLOWING TRACTS OF Valuable patented LAND,
in the county of Glynn, in the State of Georgia, and the counties of Bath and Randolph in the State of Virginia.
7000 acres at the head of St. Simon's Sound and coastline of Turtle and Altamaha rivers, adjoining the commons of the town of Brunswick.
41000 acres on the Great Satilla and on the head waters of the Little Satilla, adjoining lands of Wm. McManus, John Howell, & Ferdinand O'Neal.
25000 acres on Great Satilla, adjoining lands of Freeman Lewis and John Howell.
44000 acres in Bath county, on both sides of Green Briar River, adjoining lands of Jacob Warick, Daniel McCallum and John Dilley, including 3000 acres of prior surveys.
41000 acres in Bath county, on the east side of Cowpasture River, and on both sides of the wagon road leading from the warm springs to Staunton, including 5000 acres of prior surveys.
40000 acres in the county of Randolph, on Buchanan River, adjoining lands of Thomas Wilson, and including 4588 acres prior surveys.
30000 acres in Bath county, on the east side of Cowpasture River, on the waters of said river, and of Calfpasture River, adjoining lands of Joseph Grubb, and including 5000 acres of prior surveys.
The Georgia lands will be sold in tracts of one thousand acres each, the others in the quantities and tracts above described.
Persons desirous to examine the titles and drafts of the above mentioned land, will call for that purpose on BENJAMIN R. MORRAN, at No. 41, Arch street; proposals of purchase may be made to the subscribers.
T. FITZIMONS, No. 1, Chestnut street. B. R. MORRAN, No. 41, Arch street. JEREMIAH PARKER, No. 9, North Eighth street.
may 14. 3w
ADVERTISEMENT.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that by virtue of a Decree of the Chancellor, will be sold at Public Auction, at Snowhill, Maryland, on the first Friday in June next, part of a tract of Land called STRUGGLE, lying in Worcester county, and all the rest of the Real Estate of Joshua Townsend, deceased, for the payment of his debts. There will be given nine months credit for the one half of the purchase money, and fifteen months credit for the other half; the purchaser or purchasers giving bond with security for the same, on interest, from the day of sale. All creditors of the said Joshua Townsend are also again notified to produce their claims, with the vouchers thereof, to the Chancellor, within six months from the 22nd day of December last, that being the day of the first sale.
WILLIAM WHITTINGTON, Trustee. may 14. 3w
JOSEPH RICARDO,
Of this City, Merchant, has assigned his property for the benefit of his Creditors, to James C. Fisher, Samuel W. Fisher, and Thomas Wilson. All persons who have demands are requested to furnish their accounts without delay, and those indebted to make immediate payment to the Subscribers, acting Assignees.
James C. & Samuel W. Fisher. No. 13, Arch street. march 31. 4twtf
Country Residence.
A FAMILY who live Six Miles from the City, wish to receive two or three genteel boarders. The House is handsomely furnished; the Gardens, Meadows and Lawn are beautifully laid out, and well-stocked with the choicest Fruit. There are several Musical Instruments, amongst which is a most excellent patent Piano Forte. The Family have a handsome Coach, which may be at the service of the whole.
The Coach House and Stables are most excellent - the Water good - and the Air unequalled in the environs of the Town. For particulars enquire at the office of this Gazette. may 16. 4tw
FOR SALE.
A THREE Story Brick House, on the north side of Spruce-street near Second-street, adjoining the wall of Mr. Jones's garden and formerly occupied by David Lenox, esq. This house is in complete repair with back buildings, consisting of a Piazza, Kitchen and a handsome Dining Room over the Kitchen.
As any Person inclined to purchase will view the premises, a more particular description is considered unnecessary.
The terms of payment will be one third cash, one third in 6 months and the remainder in 12 months with interest. For further information, Enquire of JOHN CRAIG, No. 12 Dock-street. may 16. $
ROSS & SIMSON,
HAVE FOR SALE, 22 bales superior Madras blue Cloths Carolina Indigo, first quality A few bales Batias, Coffees, and a quantity of Bengal COTTON Bengal SUGAR, in bags and boxes Jamaica and RUM Bengal $
THOMAS & JOSHUA FISHER,
HAVE FOR SALE, At No. 5, Dock-street, near the Drawbridge, China ware, nankkeen dining sets, tea and coffee cups and saucers Nankkeens, flannel shirts and taffeties Penang cloths, choppah romalls, and bandannos China and English umbrellas, Together with a general assortment of European Goods - among which are
Scots thread in boxes 6d. 8d. 10d. 12d. and 20d. nails Shot - T. Crowley steel, Spanish brown and white lead English feathers 42 to 50 inches
ALSO, 112 barrels of kiln dried Indian corn meal. A commodious Store in Dock-street, No. 7, to be let, three stories high, suitable for any business. $ 4th mo. 5th
Forty Dollars Reward.
RAN AWAY, on the 7th of April, a Negro Man, named Gilsford, perhaps he may pass by the name of Gilsford Lee, or may change his name; he is about thirty years of age, nearly six feet high, has a scar in the upper part of his under lip, a small part being bitten out between the middle and the corner of his mouth (I believe on the right side), his left hand has been very sore, and was so at the time he ran away, by being burnt and some time past; he is a stout, strong fellow, and some time past; he has been employed at a few mill; he has been employed in company with a negro woman of Mr. John Lingoe, of this county. It is supposed they are gone into Delaware State. Any person that secures said Negro Man in any gaol, that the subscriber shall give him again, shall receive the above reward. ESME BAILLY. State of Maryland, Somerset County, April 10. $ may 4-4w
TREASURY DEPARTMENT, MARCH 1, 1798. PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN,
In pursuance of the Act of Congress passed on the sixth day of July one thousand seven hundred and ninety-seven, entitled "An Act laying duties on Stamped Vellum, Parchment and Paper", and the Act passed on the fifteenth day of December, one thousand seven hundred and ninety-seven, entitled "An Act to postpone for a limited time the commencement of the duties imposed by the Act entitled "An Act laying Duties on Stamped Vellum, Parchment and Paper", that from and after the first day of July ensuing, the several Stamped Duties hereinafter enumerated, will be levied and collected throughout the United States.
For every skin or piece of Vellum or Parchment, or sheet or piece of Paper, upon which shall be written or printed any or either of the instruments or writings following - to wit:
Table with 3 columns: Instrument, Dts, Cts, Mils. Rows include: Any Certificate of Naturalization, 5; Any Licence to practice, or Certificate of the admission, enrolment or registry of any Counsellor, Solicitor, Attorney, Advocate or Proctor, in any Court of the United States, 10; Any Grant or Letters Patent, under the seal or authority of the United States (except for lands granted for military services), 4; Any exemplification or certified copy of any such grant or letters patent, (except for lands granted for military services), 2; Any Charter-Party, Bottomry, or Respondentia Bond, 1; Any Receipt or discharge for or on account of any Legacy left by any Will or other testamentary instrument, or for any share or part of a personal estate divided by force of any statute of distributions, other than to the Wife, Children or Grand Children of the person deceased, the amount whereof shall be above the value of Fifty Dollars, and shall not exceed the value of One Hundred Dollars, 25; When the amount thereof shall exceed the value of One Hundred Dollars and shall not exceed five hundred dollars, 50; And for every further sum of Five Hundred Dollars, the additional sum of 1; Any Policy of Insurance or instrument in nature thereof, on any ship, vessel or goods insured from one district to another in the United States, 25; From the United States to any foreign port or place, when the sum for which Insurance is made shall not exceed five hundred dollars, 25; When the sum insured shall exceed five hundred dollars, 1; Any Exemplification, of what nature soever, that shall pass the seal of any Court, other than such as it may be the duty of the Clerk of such Court to furnish for the use of the United States or some particular state, 50; Any Bond, bill single or penal, foreign or inland bill of exchange, promissory note or other note, other than any recognizance, bill, bond, or other obligation or contract, made to or with the United States or any state, or for their use respectively, 10; If above twenty dollars and not exceeding one hundred dollars, 25; If above one hundred dollars and not exceeding five hundred dollars, 50; If above five hundred dollars and not exceeding one thousand dollars, 75; And if above one thousand dollars, 100; Provided, that if any bonds or notes shall be payable at or within sixty days, such bonds or notes shall be subject to only two-fifths parts of the duty aforesaid - viz. 4; If above twenty dollars and not exceeding one hundred dollars, 10; If above one hundred dollars and not exceeding five hundred dollars, 20; If above five hundred dollars and not exceeding one thousand dollars, 30; Any Notes issued by the banks now established, or that may hereafter be established within the United States, other than the notes of such of the said Banks as shall agree to an annual composition, of one per centum on the annual dividends made by such Banks, to their Stockholders respectively, according to the following scale. On all notes not exceeding fifty dollars, for each dollar, 50; On all notes above fifty dollars, and not exceeding one hundred dollars, 1; On all notes above one hundred dollars and not exceeding five hundred dollars, 2; On all notes above five hundred dollars, 25; Any Protest or other Notarial act, 25; Any Letter of Attorney, except for an invalid pension, or to obtain or sell Warrants for Land granted by the United States as bounty for military services performed in the late war, 25; Any Certificate or Debenture for drawback of Customs or duties, for less than five hundred dollars, 1; For five hundred dollars and not exceeding two thousand dollars, 2; For more than two thousand dollars, 3; Any note or bill of lading for goods or merchandise to be exported, from one district to another district of the United States, not being in the same State, 10; If from the United States to any foreign port or place, 25; Any Inventory or Catalogue of any furniture, goods or effects, made in any case required by law, (except in cases of goods and chattels distrained for rent or taxes, and goods taken in virtue of any legal process by any officer,) 50; Any Certificate of a Share in any Insurance Company, of a share in the Bank of the United States, or of any State or other Bank, 10; If above twenty dollars and not exceeding one hundred dollars, 25; If above one hundred dollars, 1; If under twenty dollars, at the rate of ten cents for one hundred dollars.
The duties aforesaid will be collected and received by the Supervisors, Inspectors and other Officers of Inspection, in the several Districts, Surveys and Divisions of the United States, and by such other persons as shall from time to time be specially appointed and employed by the Supervisors of Districts for that purpose.
The Supervisors of the several Districts will, prior to the first day of July ensuing, and as soon as may be practicable, mark or stamp, without fee or reward, any quantities or parcels of Vellum, Parchment or Paper, with any of the rates of duties before enumerated, on payment of the said duties; Or stamped vellum, parchment and paper may at the option of the Citizens of the United States, be obtained at the rates prescribed by law, by application to any Supervisor, Inspector, Officer of Inspection, or other person appointed for the distribution of Stamps, by the Supervisors of Districts.
GIVEN under my Hand, at Philadelphia the day and year abovenoted. OLIVER WOLCOTT, Secretary of the Treasury. March 10.
TREASURY DEPARTMENT, March 30th. 1798. Public Notice is hereby given,
THAT by an act of Congress passed on the 19th day of March, 1798, the following alterations and amendments have been made to the act passed on the 6th day of July, 1797, entitled "An act laying duties on stamped vellum, parchment and paper."
The stamp duties on debentures or certificates for the drawback of Customs or duties on Imports are repealed.
A discount at the rate of seven and one half per Centum, will be allowed by the Supervisors or Inspectors respectively, to any persons other than Officers of the Revenue, who may purchase at one time or procure to be stamped, any quantities of Vellum, Parchment or Paper, upon which the duties shall amount to Ten Dollars or upwards.
Stamped Paper, will be provided, and sold at the rates prescribed by law, without any additional charge or expense on account of the price of Paper; but for stamped Parchment or Vellum, an additional price will be demanded at the rate of Fifty Cents for each skin of Parchment, or Two Hundred Cents for each skin of Vellum of medium size, which may be furnished at the expense of the United States and proportionally for any lesser quantity. Given under my hand, at Philadelphia, the day and year abovenoted. OLIVER WOLCOTT, Secretary of the Treasury.
TO BE SOLD, BY JOHN NIXON & Co.
A quantity of very excellent LOGWOOD NOW LANDING AT THEIR WHARF. may 10. 3wtf
Fresh Teas.
Just Imported, in the ship Delaware, Captain Cooper, from Canton, And For Sale, by SAMUEL HOWELL, At his Compting House, No. 54, Chestnut-street, and by SAM. E. HOWELL, At his Compting House, Crooked billet wharf, Bohea, Souchoong, Hyson, Young Hyson, Hyson Skin, and Imperial TEAS. ALSO, China Ware, assorted; black and coloured Lute-firings and Sattins, Nankkeens, Cafas, large garden and common Fans, fatin and lute-firings Umbrellas, whale-bone sticks. They have also For Sale, Ell wide Persians, Bandannas Handkerchiefs, French Cambricks and Umbrellas, Sugar in boxes. march 8. $
Now Opening, At WILLIAM M'LAWS Saddle Manufactory, No. 72, Chestnut Street,
A general assortment of Horseman's Pills, direct from the Manufacturers in London. ALSO ON HAND, Saddles, Bridles, Hofsers, Half Covers, Light Horseman's Caps, Swords, Cartouch Boxes, Valises, Saddle Bags, Portmanteau's, Hard Leather Trunks, Carriage and Chair Harness, &c. april 9. 4tw
Canal Lottery - No. II.
WILL commence drawing Monday, the 20th inst. Tickets for Sale in this Lottery, at Seven Dollars, at WM. BLACKBURN's Lottery and Brokers Office, No. 64, South Second-street. Tickets in the Schuylkill Bridge Lottery, at Ten Dollars, where check books are kept for registering and examining in them, the City of Washington, No. 11, and Patterson Lotteries, and information where tickets may be had in most of the Lotteries authorized by law in any of the States of the Union. N.B. The business of a BROKER, in buying and selling all kinds of Public Stock and Securities, discounting Bills and Notes of Hand, sale of Lands, Houses, &c. &c. will be attended to, by WM. BLACKBURN. November 19. $
JUST PUBLISHED, AND FOR SALE AT THIS OFFICE, (Price 25 Cents) Reflections on Monroe's View of the conduct of the EXECUTIVE, As published in the GAZETTE of the UNITED STATES, Under the signature of SCIPION, In which the Commercial Warfare of France is traced to the French Faction in this Country, as its source, and the Motives of Opposition, &c.
The following Certificates of FUNDED DEBT OF THE UNITED STATES
STANDING on the Books of the treasury, were forwarded for London by the ship William Penn, Captain Josiah, which hath been captured, and the Certificates supposed to be lost, viz: 3764. $2. Deferred debt, in the name of Rev. Edward Giddy, of Thredres, in Cornwall, Great Britain, dated June 2, 1797. Certificate No. 10,072. 3021. 15. Six per Cent. Stock, in the name of Edward Horne, of Bevismount, Hants, Great Britain, dated May 30, 1797. No. 15196. 3640. 50. Deferred Debt, in the name of William Manning, of Ormsby, in the county of Norfolk, in England, dated July 10, 1797. No. 10199. 20183. 72. Three per Cent. Stock, in the name of Janet Mathew, of Upper Seymour street, London, Widow, dated October 31, 1797. No. 11820. For the renewal of the above Certificates, application is intended to be made at the said office of the Treasury of the United States, - and all persons concerned are desired to take notice. ALSO IN THE SAME BANK. Fifteen shares Stock of the Bank of United States in the name of William Manning of Ormsby, county of Norfolk, England, viz. Three Certificates for five shares each, dated January 1, 1797. No. 23984, 23983, 23984. For the renewal of which application is meant to be made to the said Bank of the United States, - and all persons concerned therein are desired to take notice. JN. VAUGHAN. Philadelphia, may 4. 3w
The following Certificates of Shares
IN the North American Land Company, standing on the Books of said Company in the name of Daniel Lister, of Hackney, in the county of Middlesex, England - viz. No. 2151, representing 13096 to 13105, ten shares - No. 2150 - 13060 to 13075, ten shares - No. 2149 - 13056 to 13065, ten shares - No. 2148 - 11509 to 11518, ten shares - No. 2147 - 11471 to 11480 - Amounting to Forty Shares, were forwarded for London by the ship William Penn, which having been captured, said certificates are supposed to be lost; for the renewal of which, application will be made to the Board of the said company. Daniel Neal Lister. may 1. 4dw
NEW TEA WAREHOUSE.
No. 39, South Front Street, OPPOSITE POST OFFICE. THE Subscriber respectfully acquaints his friends and the public, that he has opened a Store for the sale of all kinds of TEAS, imported in the late arrivals at Boston and Philadelphia, (as under) and which he is determined to sell on reasonable terms. It will be his constant endeavour to give satisfaction to those who please to favor her with their custom. Country stores will find it their advantage to deal with her, as the can at a moment's notice afford them any quantity wanted, and will allow a reasonable credit on approved notes. Imperial, Hyson, Young Hyson, Souchoong, Hyson Skin, and Bohea - Also, Coffee and Loaf Sugar for sale. Sarah Eaton. april 12. 4tw 6w
JUST RECEIVED.
And for sale by W. Young, corner of Second and Chestnut-street, M. Carey 118 High-street T. Dobson, 41 South Second-street and the Booksellers generally, (Price 5-cents of a Dollar.)
BEACON HILL,
A Local Poem, historic and descriptive By a Lady of Boston. ANALYSIS OF BOOK I. Allusion to the surrounding Prospect - Invocation to the River and Sylvan Deities - to the historic Muse - Fiction discarded - Dedication to Washington - The Action opens at the Retreat of the Columbians from Bunker's Hill - General Howe - The Memory of his Brother - Death of Warren - Personification of Fortune and Fame - Washington at Mount Vernon - called to the chief Command - Formation of the Columbian Camp at Cambridge - Natural, moral, or political History of the several States - Their commanding Officers - Siege of Boston - Its Sufferings - Negotiation for the late Retreat of the British Army - Its Departure - Appointment of Congress - Declaration of Independence - Character of the Columbian Soldiers - The Poet's prophetic Apostrophe to the Progress of Freedom throughout the World. march 30. $
Valuable Stands for Business.
FOR SALE - by the Subscriber, Two Lots of Ground, Situate on the south side of Chestnut-street, between Second and Third streets: - one containing eighteen feet, and the other seventeen feet, more or less, on the said street, and both extending, the one breadth, one hundred and forty-eight, more or less, to Carter's alley.
BRICK HOUSES
(Numbers 80 and 82) Which may readily be made into one; and, on Carter's alley, there is a convenient, well built three-story
Brick House and Kitchen,
Almost new, which has two rooms on a floor and a front of eighteen feet on said alley. This property is clear of ground-rent, and an indisputable title will be given to the purchaser. The three Houses will be sold separately or together. Further particulars may be known on application to ZACHARIAH POULSON, jun. No. 80, Chestnut-street, or at the Library. march 23. 4tw 8w
Salisbury Estate.
THE Subscriber, proposing to contract his business, offers this Estate for sale, on moderate terms. On it are one Blast and three Air Furnaces, a complete Boring Machine, and a very good grift Mill, with two pair of stones; also a good Forge, all in perfect repair, as are all the Water Works connected with these various branches. The Air Furnaces were lately built for the purpose of casting Cannon for this State - There are about two thousand acres of Land, one half of which is under wood, the other very fine arable Land producing the best Hay and Pasture. The Cannon lately manufactured there, fully proves the excellency of the metal, which is superior to any in this country, and probably, equal to any in the world; for not one of sixty-nine guns lately made, although some of the 24 were bored into 32 pounders, have failed on proving. The situation is very eligible, particularly for this branch of manufacture, and a place of arms lying in the state of Connecticut, and only 30 miles from several landings on the Hudson's river, and having every advantage that can result from a plenty of water issuing from a large natural pond, very near the Furnace, and which may be converted into a variety of other useful purposes. The purchaser can be accommodated with all the tools and utensils, and have possession on or before the first of June next, and preparation may be made in the meantime for going into Bladensburg immediately thereafter, for every part will be delivered in good order, with some coal, Ore, &c. &c. For terms, apply to Mr. Joseph Anthony, in Philadelphia; David Brooks, Esq., one of the Representatives in Congress for this State; Mr. David Waterman, on the premises, or to the proprietor in New-York. WILLIAM NEILSON. Dec. 1. 3wtf
Massachusetts District.
By Order of the Honorable JOHN LOWELL, Esquire, Judge of the District Court for the Massachusetts District.
NOTICE is hereby given to all persons concerned, That a Libel is filed in said Court by Christian G. Grutzmacher, late Commander of the ship Corona, of and from Hamburg, and Henry Andrew Helas as agents for the owners of said Ship, against sundry goods, wares and merchandise, saved from said ship Corona, wrecked on Cape Cod within said District on the 16th March last - which goods, wares and merchandise, were consigned to divers persons in Philadelphia, in the District of Pennsylvania, and elsewhere - and that said Libel is filed as aforesaid, for the freight said to be due to the Libellants on said goods, wares and merchandise, and for necessary expenses paid by them which have arisen upon the same - And that trial will be had upon the aforesaid Libel at a District Court to be held at the Court-House in Boston, on Monday the eighteenth day of June next, at 11 o'clock, A. M. SAMUEL BRADFORD, Marshal of Massachusetts. Dated at Boston, April 23d, 1798. tawtf
FOR SALE,
THE whole or one half of a PLANTATION on the river Delaware, between Burlington and Bordentown (two miles from the latter), containing about 400 acres; 60 of which are bottom meadow, and 100 wood land; there are 30 acres of red clover to cut this year (exclusive of madow) but will exceed 50 the next; and any quantity of manure may be had for the upland from the meadow without injury.
An orchard of grafted fruit yielding between 50 and 70 hogheads of excellent cider; a dwelling-house with a barn, stable, granary and other necessary buildings go with one part in case of a division; on the other are no improvements, but has one of the most elegant situations for a house to be seen on the river. The land is of good quality, suitable for grazing or agriculture, and convenient to market by land or water. For terms apply to the owner on the premises. Thomas St. John. May 5. 4twtf
Germantown and Reading Turnpike Road Company.
THE Subscribers Commissioners appointed by an Act of Assembly of this Commonwealth entitled, "An act to enable the Governor of this Commonwealth to incorporate a Company for making an Artificial Road from the city of Philadelphia, through Germantown, by the route of Chestnut Hill, to the twelve mile stone on the Reading Road, and thence to Reading in the county of Berks," hereby give notice, that books are provided as the law directs, and that we will proceed to receive subscriptions for the company's stock on the 28th, 29th, and 30th days of May next, at the City Hall, in the city of Philadelphia, at the Tavern of William Buehler, in Germantown, at the Tavern of Jacob Berr, in Reading in the county of Berks, and at the Tavern of George Phleger, in Pottstown in the county of Montgomery, on the same days, from ten o'clock in the morning, until two o'clock, P. M. on each day, when and where certain of the Commissioners will attend to receive subscriptions accordingly. april 14th, 1798.
BENJAMIN CHEW, jun. CASPAR W. HAINES, SAMUEL BETTON, GEORGE LOGAN, JOHN FROMBERGER, ISAAC FRANKS, JOS HEISTER, J. BOWER, DANIEL ROSE, SAMUEL LAVERY, GEORGE DOUGLASS, jun. ABRAHAM LINCOLN. N.B. Fifteen Dollars to be paid on each share at the time of subscribing. april 17 - 4twtf 30m
Schuylkill Permanent Bridge.
THE Subscribers being the six persons first named in the Letters Patent, issued by the Governor of this Commonwealth, by virtue of the Act of General Assembly of the 16th ult. for incorporating the Company hereby give notice agreeable to the 3d section of the said law, that they have appointed, and hereby request a meeting of the subscribers at the State House in the City of Philadelphia, on the thirty first day of this instant May, at ten o'clock in the forenoon, for the purposes mentioned in the said 3d section, which is hereafter published for the information of the Stockholders.
Richard Peters, John Perott, Matthew McConnell, William Sheaff, George Bickham, William Nicholls. Philadelphia, 1st May, 1798.
Section 3: And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That the six Persons first named in the Letters Patent, shall as soon as conveniently may be after sealing the same, give notice in two or more public Newspapers in Philadelphia, one whereof shall be in the German Language at a time and place by them to be appointed, not less than thirty days from the time of filing the first notice, at which time and place the said subscribers shall proceed to organize the said Corporation, and shall choose by a majority of votes of the said subscribers by ballot, to be delivered in Person or by Proxy, duly authorized - one President, twelve Directors, one Treasurer, and such other officers as they shall think necessary to conduct the business of the said Company for one year, and until other officers shall be chosen, and may make such by-laws, rules, orders and regulations, not inconsistent with the laws of this Commonwealth, as shall be necessary for the well ordering the affairs of the said company; Provided always, that no person shall have more than fifty votes at any election or in determining any question arising at such meetings whatever number of shares he or she be entitled to, and that each person shall be entitled to one vote for every share by him or her held under the said number.
FOR SALE,
Two three story Brick Houses With convenient stores, wharf, &c. situate on Water street, between Mulberry and Sassafras Streets, containing in front on Water street fifty-four feet, and containing that breadth eastward ninety-five feet, then widening to the fourth thirteen feet six inches. These houses have the convenience of a public alley adjoining on the north side, and area very desirable situation for a merchant, flour factor, or others who may have occasion for storage of goods. This property will be sold on very reasonable terms for cash. For further information apply to the printer. april 5. m&wtf
For Sale,
A good situation for a Country SEAT, Forty acres of Land, On the Old York road, within eight of Germantown, and about five miles from the city; the whole being under good fence, and in excellent order as pasture ground. For further information and terms, apply to JOHN ELLIOTT CRASSON, at his Office for the sale of Real Estates, Conveyancing, &c. No. 54, High-street. 4th mo. 3d. t&f11t