Gazette of the United-States. (New-York [N.Y.]), 1791-10-29 00:00:00

Gazette of the United States.
PUBLISHED WEDNESDAYS AND SATURDAYS BY JOHN FENNO, No. 9, HIGH-STREET, BETWEEN SECOND AND THIRD STREETS, PHILADELPHIA.
[No. 53, of Vol. III.]
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1791.
[Whole No. 261.]
ANSWER OF M. SYEYES,
To Mr. PAINE's Letter, and to several other publications of a similar nature.
MR. THOMAS PAINE is one of those men who have contributed the most to establish the liberty of America. His ardent love of humanity, and his hatred of every sort of tyranny, have induced him to take up in England the defence of the French revolution, against the amphigorical declamation of Mr. Burke. His work has been translated into our language, under the title of "DES DROITS DE L'HOMME," and is universally known.
What French Patriot is there, who has not already, from the bottom of his heart, thanked this foreigner for having strengthened our cause by all the powers of his reason and reputation? It is with pleasure that I observe an opportunity of offering him the tribute of my gratitude and my esteem for the truly philosophical application of talents so distinguished as his own.
Mr. Paine supposes that I have given him a challenge, and he accepts it. I have not given any challenge; but I shall be very glad to afford to so able an author an opportunity of giving the world some further truths.
Mr. Paine declares himself to be the open enemy of monarchical government. I merely say, that a republican form of government appears to me to be insufficient for liberty. After an avowal so positive on both sides, nothing seems to remain for us but to produce our proofs, the public being entirely ready to decide between us. But unfortunately abstract questions, those especially that relate to a science, the very language of which is scarcely yet fixed, require to be prepared for investigation by a sort of preliminary convention. Before we begin a contest, to be carried on at least under the standard of philosophy, it is absolutely necessary that we should be understood. Mr. Paine is so conscious of this necessity, that he begins by giving definitions. "I do not understand," says he, "by republicanism, that which bears the name in Holland, and in some states of Italy."
When he wrote thus, the author was, no doubt, aware, that I, on my part, do not undertake to defend either the Ottoman, or the — monarchy. In order to be reasonable in this discussion, and certainly we both desire to be so, we ought to begin by rejecting all examples. In point of social order, Mr. Paine cannot be less pleased than I am with the models which history offers us. The question between us then depends upon simple theory. Mr. Paine defends his republic, such as he understands it; I defend monarchy, as I have conceived it.
"In short," says Mr. Paine, "it is against the whole HELL of monarchy, that I have declared war." I entreat him to believe, that in this undertaking, I would be his second, and not his adversary. I do not adopt the interest of the whole Hell of republics. The one is as real as the other, and avails just as much. It is impossible that either Mr. Paine or myself should ever take the part of any sort of Hell.
"By republicanism," says Mr. Paine, "I understand merely a government by representation." I have had some difficulty in conceiving, why it should be endeavoured to confound two notions so distinct as those of a representative system and republicanism; and I hope for some attention to my answer.
It is only since the event of the 21st of June last, that this republican party has been perceived. What is their object? Can they be ignorant, that the plan of representation which the National Assembly has presented to France, though imperfect in some of its parts, is, notwithstanding, the purest and the best which has appeared in the world? What then is the object of those who desire a republic, when they desire it to be simply a government by representation? What! does this party, so lately formed, already endeavour to array itself with the honor of demanding, representative administration against the National Assembly itself? Will they seriously undertake to persuade men, that in all this there are but two opinions—that of the republicans, who with a representation, and that of the National Assembly, who do not? It is impossible to impute to M. M. the new republicans, such a chimera; or, that they should hope for such a blind docility on the part of the public and posterity.
When I speak of political representation, I go further than Mr. Paine. I maintain that every social constitution of which representation is not the essence, is a false constitution. Whether a monarchy or not, every association, the members of which do not all at once vacate their common administration, has but to choose between representatives and masters, between despotism and legitimate government. There may be varieties in the manner of electing the representatives, and their internal regulations; and none of the different forms may be able to attribute to itself exclusively the true, essential, and distinctive character of all good government. We are not to imitate those who say—Observe, I understand by a republic, a good government; and by monarchy, a bad one: take that ground, and defend yourself. It is not to a man of abilities, like Mr. Paine, that it is necessary to give a caution against such language.
Whatever dispute may arise upon the different sorts of representations; however it may be enquired, for instance, whether it is wise to employ exactly the same method in the executive and the legislative order; or whatever other questions of this sort may be produced, it does not at all follow, that upon these gradations and shades, depend the difference between republicans and monarchicans.
All these debates are, or will be, common to partisans of both systems, and they will be equally so in either hypothesis of a good or a bad representation. In fact, whether our established proxies shall be well or ill chosen, or well or ill established, it will remain to be known what shall be their correlation, and how you will dispose them amongst themselves, for the best distribution and greatest facility of public operation.
In one word, it will still remain to be known, whether you will have a republic or a monarchy; because, of themselves, the republican and monarchic forms will apply either to a good or bad constitution, to a good or bad government. It is not, therefore, the character of a true representation, that it must bear the distinguished attributes which mark republicans.
Here, in my opinion, are the two principal points, by which the difference of the two systems are to be recognized.
Make all political action, that which you please to call the executive power, center in a council of execution appointed by the people, or by the National Assembly; and you have formed a republic.
Place, on the contrary, at the head of the departments which you call ministerial, and which ought to be better divided, responsible chiefs, independent one of another, but depending, as to their ministerial existence, upon an individual of superior rank, in
whom is represented the stable unity of government, or, what is the same, of national monarchy; let this individual be authorised to choose and dismiss, in the name of the people, these first executive chiefs, and to exercise some other functions suitable to the public interest, but his irresponsibility for which cannot be dangerous, and you have formed a monarchy.
[To be continued.]
FROM THE COLUMBIAN CENTINEL.
MR. BURKE,
Has been charged with entertaining despotic principles. The charge is not however, well founded; as can be demonstrated by the following extract from a pamphlet lately published by him, intitled, "An Appeal from the NEW to the OLD WHIGS," which the Editor received in the last vessel from Europe. The indignation which has marked his public writings and speaking, it seems, was wholly excited by the levelling spirit of the French Democrats; for speaking of another revolution, which has lately passed before the world—and condemning the silence in which it has been passed over in England, he says:—
"THE STATE OF POLAND
Was undoubtedly such, that there could scarcely exist two opinions, but that a reformation of its constitution, even at some expence of blood, might be seen without much disapprobation. No confusion could be feared in such an enterprize; because the establishment to be reformed was itself a state of confusion. A King without authority; Nobles without union or subordination; a People without arts, industry, commerce, or liberty; no order within; no defence without; no effective public force, but a foreign force, which entered a naked country at will, and disposed of every thing at pleasure. Here was a state of things which seemed to invite and might perhaps justify bold enterprize and desperate experiment. But in what manner was this chaos brought into order? The means were as striking to the imagination, as satisfactory to the reason, and soothing to the moral sentiment. In contemplating that change, humanity has every thing to rejoice and to glory in; nothing to be ashamed of, nothing to suffer. So far as it has gone, it probably is the most pure and defecated public good which ever has been conferred on mankind. We have seen anarchy and servitude at one removed; a throne strengthened for the protection of the people, without trenching on their liberties; all foreign cabal banished, by changing the crown from elective to hereditary; and what was a matter of pleasing wonder, we have seen a reigning King, from an heroic love to his country, exerting himself with all the toil, the dexterity, the management, and intrigue, in favor of a family of strangers, with which ambitious men labour for the aggrandizement of their own. Ten millions of men in a way of being freed gradually, and therefore safely to themselves and the state, not from civil or political chains, which, bad as they are, only fetter the mind, but from substantial personal bondage. Inhabitants of cities, before without privileges, placed in the consideration which belongs to that improved and connected situation of social life. One of the most proud, numerous, and fierce bodies of nobility and gentry ever known in the world, arranged only in the foremost rank of free and generous citizens. Not one man incurred loss, or suffered degradation. All, from the King to the day-labourer, were improved in their condition. Every thing was kept in its place and order; but in that place and order every thing was bettered. To add to this happy wonder (this unheard-of conjunction of wisdom and fortune) not one drop of blood was spilled; no treachery; no outrage; no system of slander more cruel than the sword; no studied insults on religion, morals, or manners; no spoil; no confiscation; no citizen beggared; none imprisoned; none exiled: the whole was effected with a policy, a discretion, an unanimity and secrecy, such as have never been before known on any occasion; but such wonderful conduct was reserved for this glorious conspiracy in favour of the true and genuine rights and interests of men. Happy people, if they know to proceed as they have begun! Happy Prince, worthy to begin with splendor, or to close with glory, a race of patriot Kings: and to leave,
A name, which every wind to heav'n would bear, Which men to tell, and Angels joy to hear.
TERMS and CONDITIONS declared by the PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES, this seventeenth day of October, seventeen hundred and ninety-one, for regulating the Materials and manner of the Buildings and Improvements on the LOTS in the City of WASHINGTON.
1st. THAT the outer and party-walls of all houses within the said City shall be built of brick or stone.
2d. That all buildings on the streets shall be parallel thereto, and may be advanced to the line of the street, or withdrawn therefrom, at the pleasure of the improver: But where any such building is about to be erected, neither the foundation or party-wall shall be begun, without first applying to the person or persons appointed by the Commissioners to superintend the buildings within the city, who will ascertain the lines of the walls to correspond with these regulations.
3d. The wall of no house to be higher than forty feet to the roof, in any part of the city; nor shall any be lower than thirty-five feet on any of the avenues.
4th. That the person or persons appointed by the Commissioners to superintend the buildings, may enter on the land of any person, to set out the foundation and regulate the walls to be built between party and party, as to the breadth and thickness thereof: Which foundation shall be laid equally upon the lands of the persons between whom such party-walls are to be built, and shall be of the breadth and thickness determined by such person proper; and the first builder shall be reimbursed one moiety of the charge of such party-wall, or so much thereof as the next builder shall have occasion to make use of, before such next builder shall any ways use or break into the wall—The charge or value thereof to be set by the person or persons so appointed by the Commissioners.
5th. As temporary conveniences will be proper for lodging workmen and securing materials for building, it is to be understood that such may be erected with the approbation of the Commissioners: But they may be removed or discontinued, by the special order of the Commissioners.
6th. The way into the squares being designed in a special manner for the common use and convenience of the occupiers of the respective squares—the property in the same is reserved to the public, so that there may be an immediate interference on any abuse of the use thereof, by any individual, to the nuisance or obstruction of others. The proprietors of the Lots adjoining the entrance into the squares, on arching over the entrance, and fixing gates in the manner the Commissioners shall approve, shall be entitled to divide the space over the arching and build it up with the range of that line of the square.
7th. No vaults shall be permitted under the streets, nor any encroachments on the foot-way above, by steps, stoops, porches, cellar-doors, windows, ditches, or leaning walls; nor shall there be any projection over the street, other than the eves of the houses, without the consent of the Commissioners.
8th. These regulations are the terms and conditions upon which conveyances are to be made, according to the deeds in trust of the lands within the city.
Oct. 17. GEORGE WASHINGTON.
EXTRACTS.
IF we drop a pebble, the size of a nutmeg, upon the smooth surface of a river, we shall observe the circular waves to be small, and issue only to a little distance from the centre. If we drop another the size of a cannon shot, it operates with multiplied force, the surrounding waves swell, to a superior size, and extend to a more distant space.—The mind, unimproved by letters or conversation, deals in trifles, is hemmed in by itself, and extends not far from its own centre; while he, who is enlightened by education, whose ideas are improved by study, rises to a more elevated height, and takes in a more extensive compass.
THE conversations of the lower class rise from themselves, and terminate where they rise. Their observations seldom extend to men or things; they deal in the little; keep near their own centre; are heroes of their own story: and blazon those actions, which never existed to blazon themselves.

WARWICK, August 27.
BIRMINGHAM RIOTERS.
FOUR of the rioters lately tried have been capitally convicted, and Baron Perryn having left town, all the convicts must meet their fate, as his lordship left no reprieve, nor gave any hopes of mercy. The acquittals are all this morning discharged; and the friends of the convicts are coming into town to take farewell. Before the Baron departed, he discharged Underwood and Adams, who were confined for threatening Elwell, a witness for the crown.
LONDON, Sept. 3.
The party has, doubtless, great reason to boast of their wisdom in passing sentence of banishment upon Mr. Burke, from the black town of Sinope; they will now have the mortification to hear of that gentleman's thundering and convinced eloquence being displayed in the Upper House; it being his Majesty's will to distinguish and reward such eminent abilities and integrity, with some special mark of his royal favor, and to retain Mr. Burke still in the service of his country; although he has more pretensions than any man we know to enjoy the otium cum dignitate . He is to be Lord Beconsfield.
We hear from Kendal, Westmoreland, that the Weavers of that place have left their work in the looms, because them and their masters cannot agree for an advance of wages; a great many of them have left the town, and their families.
As a remarkable instance of strength, there are two brewers, servants at a brewhouse, in London, who, from lifting things of uncommon weight, have brought themselves into the habit of carrying a butt of beer between them in the same manner as others carry a barrel. The weight of which, with the butt, is near one thousand weight.
The news from India will occasion no small uneasiness among the enemies of administration. Their only remedy is in proving (that is, asserting, which to them is the same thing) that Bangalore was not worth powder and shot, and that Tippoo is always more formidable after a defeat than before it.
M. de Verac, the French Minister at the Swiss Cantons, has sent in his dismissal to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs at Paris. He alleges as his reason for doing so, that as he had received his appointment from the hands of the King, so he no longer thought it honourable to hold it when he could not act in his Majesty's name.
Vesuvius began to pour forth a torrent of lava, on the side of Resini, on the 27th of July. It has done considerable damage to the cultivated part of the mountain, but is much less dreadful in its descent than the former eruptions.
On Thursday night some persons were daring enough to break the windows of the house of a man who had given evidence against one of the rioters at Warwick!
The revenue laws have laid fast hold of one A. B. who is committed to Winchester gaol for a debt to the Crown, of ninety-four thousand four hundred and forty pounds!
Government, it is said, has come to a determination with respect to the family of the late unfortunate Mr. Sutherland, who lately shot himself in Hyde-Park, it has given to the widow and daughters 500l. together with an annuity of 300l.
Extract of a letter from Stockholm, Aug. 17.
"On the King's arrival here, he went to the French play-house, accompanied by several officers of that nation. Enemies to that great revolution which has taken place in their country, they came to Stockholm either to seek an asylum in this land of despotism, or to solicit the despot to give them the means to restore to their King, the Nobility and the Clergy, the arbitrary rights which were a curse to the French Nation. These officers labor under a great error, if they imagine that Gustavus will take the least step in favor of the Nobility and Clergy of France.—A Prince whose principal object in the two last revolutions of Sweden, had been to crush those two bodies who lay so heavy, not only upon the nation, but upon the Royal authority. If, then, Gustavus attempts to bring on a counter-revolution, it would be solely in favor of the despotism of the French Monarch; and all those who know his character, are confident that in case of success, he would advise Louis the 16th to fetter all—People, Clergy, and Nobility."
Extract of a letter from the Hague, August 26.
"We have accounts from Spain, that at the pressing instances of the foreign Ministers at the Court of Madrid, the decree of the Spanish Monarch, relative to foreigners, has been so far withdrawn, as not to affect foreigners settled in any of the sea-ports of Spain, or employed in any of the royal manufactories or store houses."
"We learn from Berlin, that the Turkish Ambassador there showed the greatest joy at receiving the news of peace being concluded, and in the evening illuminated his Hotel in a most superb manner."
CONGRESS.
PHILADELPHIA.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26.
MR. SEDGWICK, Mr. Macon, and Mr. Venable, took their seats this day.
The committee appointed to draft rules and regulations for the House, reported progress.
It was moved that the rules of the former House should be adopted pro tempore . This was objected to by some of the new members who were unacquainted with those rules. The rules were read for information, and then the motion was carried.
A letter was received from the Treasurer of the United States, with a statement of his accounts.
A message was received from the President of the United States communicating to the House sundry acts passed by the Legislatures of different States and transmitted to him during the recess of Congress, viz.—An act of the State of New-Hampshire, ceding to the United States a lighthouse situate within that State;—an act of the Legislature of Pennsylvania, ratifying one of the proposed amendments to the Constitution of the United States; and an act of the Legislature of North Carolina, granting to the United States the use of the jails within that State.
A remonstrance was handed to the chair from Thomas Barnes, attorney for Rumsey, stating the insufficiency of the act for securing to inventors the exclusive advantages of their discoveries and improvements.
A motion was laid on the table, by Mr. Williamson, that a committee be appointed to prepare a bill to amend the act for the encouragement of useful arts.
Order of the day.
In committee of the whole, on the President's speech.
MR. MUHLENBERG in the Chair.
The address being read, Mr. VINING moved a resolution, of which the following is the purport, "Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, that an address should be presented to the President of the United States, by the House of Representatives, in answer to his speech, to congratulate him on the prosperous situation of the United States;—expressive of the approbation of the House of the wise and prudent measures he has pursued during their recess, in the execution of the duties committed to his charge; promising speedy attention to the important and momentous objects recommended to their consideration, and expressing their approbation of the humane and effectual steps taken, under his direction, for the defence of the Western frontiers."
This resolution was objected to by Messrs. Lawrance and Sedgwick, Smith (S. C.) and Livermore, upon the principle, that it expressed the sense of the House upon points which required further information and investigation before the House could, with propriety, determine. It was difficult to say, before proper documents were laid before the House, whether the measures adopted for the defence of the western frontiers were the most prudent that could be adopted. It was impossible, positively to assert, that the President in the execution of the duties assigned him in carrying into effect the Excise act, had done all for the best. Every member that spoke agreed in expressing his individual opinion, that no doubt the President had acted with his wonted prudence and wisdom in the execution of the trusts reposed in him; but also agreed that it was improper, indeed it was no compliment paid to the President, to approve before a formal examination.
In answer to these objections it was observed, that so far as circumstances had been made known to the members, relative to the steps taken by the President during the recess of the Federal Legislature so far they claimed the approbation of the House, and that the opinion of the House was only meant to be given as far as they were informed. It was urged, that the answer of the House should be a candid expression of their feelings; feelings which the prosperous situation of the country undoubtedly called forth, and which the issue of the measures adopted could not fail to excite.
Several modifications were proposed to the resolution, which was finally agreed to, in substance as follows, viz. "Resolved, That an answer be returned to the President's address, containing assurances of speedy attention to the important objects recommended to the consideration of the Legislature." Thus modified the resolution was reported to and adopted by the House.
A memorial was presented from the distillers in the town of Boston and vicinity, complaining of the unequal operation of the excise law, and suggesting alterations therein.
A memorial was read from the Sheriff of Suffolk County, Massachusetts respecting prisoners of the United States.
A resolution was adopted, directing the Clerk to cause three of the city newspapers, at the election of the respective members, to be left at their lodgings. Mr. Giles presented a petition from Mr. William Witlock of the town of Petersburg (Virginia) which was referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
The following members were appointed a committee to examine the credentials of persons returned as members of the House, viz. Messrs. Livermore, Boudinot, Gerry, Gilman, Bourne, (R.) Hillhouse and Steele.
A resolution which had been laid on the table, contemplating the appointment of a committee of contested elections was taken up.
Mr. Livermore was opposed to such an appointment. The constitution, he said, had fixed the mode of judging contested elections, at least to determine so far that the House should be the judges of contested elections of their own members. He was of opinion that the forms to be observed in the trial should not be fixed before a case of contested election occurred. He totally disapproved of the idea of delegating to a committee this power of judging, expressly given to them by the Constitution. Such a transfer of power, he conceived, would be as unconstitutional as to delegate a legislative authority. In the British parliament, it was true, a committee was made the judge of contested elections; but there was no higher authority there, he observed, to prevent them from delegating this power: when here the people of the United States had clearly spoken in their constitution, and determined the judges of the elections.
Mr. Vining stated, that his object in wishing the resolution adopted, was to procure expedition, save expence, and secure fairness of decision in determining contested elections. He hoped the constitution would be no obstacle to the attainment of these desiderata. Perhaps, he suggested, it might be found necessary to leave to the House a final vote, after the work of the committee had been laid before them.
Mr. White said he clearly saw great inconvenience in permitting cases of contested elections to come directly before the House. The delays and consequent expence of examining witnesses before the House, he stated, would be very great. He was of opinion that a committee appointed for that purpose should examine the evidences bro't forward, arrange them, and lay them in order before the House for their information; but then he insisted, on the necessity of letting the determination depend upon a vote of the House.
The House adjourned without taking a question on the resolution, until to-morrow, at 10 o'clock.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27.
The Speaker communicated a letter from the Secretary of the Library Company of Philadelphia, enclosing sundry resolutions of the Company for granting to the Members of both houses of Congress, as full and free use of the books as if they were members of the said company.
Mr. Livermore presented the petition of Mrs. McLeary, widow of Col. McLeary, who was killed at Bunker's Hill, June 17, 1775, praying for half-pay, for services expressed in said petition.
Mr. Sylvester presented a representation of John Younglove, containing a full account of his situation in consequence of the wounds he received in the late war, for which he had been put on the pension list.
Also a memorial of sundry persons designed to invalidate and counteract the above representation.
Mr. Ward presented sundry petitions from persons praying compensation, &c. for services during the late war.
Mr. White presented the petition of Charles Gardner, praying to be placed on the pension list.
Mr. Gerry presented the petition of John Taylor, praying to be placed on the pension list.
Mr. Smith (S. C.) presented sundry petitions and memorials from several persons for commutation or half pay.
All the above memorials and petitions were referred to the Secretary of War.
The memorial of the Sheriff of the County of Suffolk (Massachusetts) was referred to a select committee consisting of Messrs. Gerry, Learned and Sterrett.
Mr. Gerry presented the petition of Susanna Fowle, widow of Lieut. Fowle, who died at Rock Landing, State of Georgia, in the service of the United States; referred to Messrs. Gerry, Wadsworth and Ward.
The petition of Francis and Isaac Choate, presented by Mr. Ward, praying to be reimbursed certain losses and expences incurred in consequence of being captured by the Indians, was read, and referred to a committee consisting of Messrs. Ward, White and Smith, (N. H.)
A petition from Reuben Weed, presented by Mr. Lawrance, and a petition of sundry inhabitants of the Western Territory, presented by Mr. Smith (S. C.) were read, and referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
Mr. Fitzsimons presented a petition from a committee of the public creditors who loaned money to the United States, between September 1777, and March 1778—read and laid on the table.
A petition of Charles Heatley, presented by Mr. Tucker, was referred to the Secretary of State.
A message was received from the President of the United States by the Secretary at War, with the Reports of General Scott and Lieutenant Colonel Commandant Wilkinson, copy of the instructions to those officers from the President, &c.—These were laid on the table.
Mr. Madison, of the committee appointed for that purpose, reported an address in answer to the President's Speech—which was read the first and second time, and, on motion of Mr. Vining, referred to a committee of the whole house.
Mr. Muhlenberg in the Chair. The committee considered the same by paragraphs, and made no amendments—they then rose and reported to the house—the

house accepted the report unanimously, and appointed a committee to wait on the President, to enquire at what time and place he would receive the address. The committee having waited on the President, returned and informed the house, that to-morrow, at 12 o'clock, the President would receive the address at his own house. Adjourned.
FRIDAY, October 28.
Sundry petitions for compensations and pensions for services performed and disabilities incurred during the late war, were presented by Messrs. Serret, Gerry, and Ward;—read, and referred to the Secretary at War. The petition of Benjamin Warren, presented to the late House of Representatives, on motion of Mr. Bourne (M.) was taken into consideration, read, and referred to the Secretary at War.
The motion laid on the table by Mr. Lawrance, for the appointment of a committee to bring in a bill or bills to provide for the registering ships or vessels, to regulate those employed in the coasting trade and the fisheries, and for other purposes, was taken into consideration, agreed to, and a committee appointed accordingly, consisting of Messrs. Goodhue, Fitzsimons, and Lawrance.
At 12 o'clock, the Speaker, attended by the Members and the Clerk, and preceded by the Sergeant at Arms, waited on the President of the United States, at his house, where the Speaker delivered the following Address, in answer to his Speech to both Houses at the opening of the Session:—
SIR, IN receiving your address at the opening of the present session, the House of Representatives have taken an ample share in the feelings inspired by the actual prosperity, and flattering prospects of our country: And whilst, with becoming gratitude to heaven, we ascribe this happiness to the true source from which it flows, we behold with an animating pleasure, the degree in which the constitution and laws of the United States have been instrumental in dispensing it.
It yields us particular satisfaction to learn the success with which the different important measures of the government have proceeded; as well those specially provided for at the last session, as those of preceding date. The safety of our Western Frontiers, in which the lives and repose of so many of our fellow citizens are involved, being peculiarly interesting, your communications on that subject are proportionally grateful to us. The gallantry and good conduct of the Militia, whose services were called for, are an honorable confirmation of the efficacy of that precious resource of a free State. And we anxiously wish that the consequences of their successful enterprises, and of the other proceedings to which you have referred, may leave the United States free to pursue the most benevolent policy towards the unhappy and deluded race of people in our neighborhood.
The amount of the population of the United States, determined by the returns of the census, is a source of the most pleasing reflections, whether it be viewed in relation to our national safety and respectability, or as a proof of that felicity in the situation of our country which favors so unexampled a rapidity in our growth. Nor ought any to be insensible to the additional motive suggested by this important fact, to perpetuate the free government established, with a wise administration of it, to a portion of the earth which promises such an increase of the number which is to enjoy these blessings within the limits of the United States.
We shall proceed with all the respect due to your patriotic recommendations, and with a deep sense of the trust committed to us by our fellow citizens, to take into consideration the various and important matters falling within the present session—and in discussing and deciding each, we shall feel every disposition, whilst we are pursuing the public welfare, which must be the supreme object with all our constituents, to accommodate as far as possible, the means of attaining it to the sentiments and wishes of every part of them.
Signed by order, and in behalf of the House of Representatives, JONATHAN TRUMBULL, SPEAKER. Attest. JOHN BECKLEY, Clerk. To which the PRESIDENT was pleased to make the following Reply.
GENTLEMEN, THE pleasure I derive from an assurance of your attention to the objects I have recommended to you, is doubled by your concurrence in the testimony I have borne to the prosperous condition of our public affairs. Relying on the fancies of your enlightened judgments and on your patriotic aid, I shall be the more encouraged in all my endeavors for the public weal; and particularly in those which may be required on my part for executing the salutary measures I anticipate from your present deliberations.
G. WASHINGTON.
The Members then returned to their Hall, where the President's reply was read. A message was received from the President of the United States by Mr. Secretary Lear, communicating a copy of the enumeration of the Inhabitants of the United States, agreeable to the Census taken pursuant to a law of the Union.—Also, sundry papers from the Governor of Pennsylvania, respecting several persons who have fled from justice from this State, to the State of Virginia. The papers were read, and a motion laid on the table by Mr. Sedgwick, that a committee should be appointed to whom the papers respecting the persons fleeing from justice, should be referred; with instructions to report a bill or bills, making a general provision in cases of persons charged with felony, treason or other crimes, who may flee from a State having cognizance thereof, &c.
The schedule of the census was referred to a committee of the whole House, and made the order of the day for Monday next. The other papers referred to in the message of the President received yesterday, were then read, viz. An act of the State of North-Carolina, ceding a tract of land for the use of the United States, for the erection of Light Houses—and the Reports of the Commanders on the expeditions against the Indians. On motion of Mr. Sedgwick a committee was appointed to bring in a bill to provide for the regulation of the Post-Office and Post Roads, consisting of Messrs. Livermore, Clark, Steele, Bourne (R.L.) Thatcher.
Mr. Williamson's motion, for a committee to bring in a bill to amend the act for promoting the progress of the useful arts, was adopted, and the following gentlemen appointed, Messrs. Williamson, Hillhouse, and Sedgwick. Adjourned to Monday 11 o'clock.
PITTSBURGH, October 15.
By gentlemen from Gallipolis, we are informed that four men, within a short distance of Marietta, and one at Bell Pré, 15 miles lower down the Ohio, have been killed by the Indians, within these twelve days past. They also inform, that the settlement at Gallipolis is in a very thriving way, and that they have not been molested by the savages.
BALTIMORE, October 25.
Extract of a letter from a respectable gentleman in Baltimore County, to his friend in this town, dated the 19th inst.
"I have a remarkable breed of sheep, which hath been produced by adding to my flock a Persian ram. The other day I separated from the rest twelve wethers; these I intend to kill this Winter: They appeared so uncommonly fat and large, that I was induced to weigh them alive; the particular weight of each sheep was as follows:—154, 177, 181, 168, 157, 168, 188, 174, 155, 172, 152, 169—Total, 2015 lb."
BENNINGTON Oct. 17.
By a gentleman from Dover in the State of New-York, we are informed, that a merchant of that place, a few days since, sent his clerk to receive a sum of money: the clerk, on his return, was observed by some men in a field to meet a traveller, the men in the field soon heard the cry of murder, and at the same instant observed one of the men to fall; they immediately ran to his assistance: on their arrival they found the clerk stabbed, of which wound he expired in a few hours: he was robbed of his watch, money, and hat, and the perpetrator fled to an adjacent wood: they immediately raised a number of men, surrounded the wood, and secured the villain. He owned he had robbed the person killed, and notwithstanding a dagger was found in his possession, he denied he had ever stabbed him. He is lodged in Poughkeepsie gaol to await his trial.
LITCHFIELD, October 19.
We learn from Albany, that a few days since, a Negro servant was wantonly shot through the neck, and killed, by direction of his inhuman master, at the glass works near Albany. Our informant affirms, that the Negro had been lately purchased by a proprietor in the works, and was represented as insane: His disorder was, however, imputed to a vicious disposition; and having given specimens of his obstinacy and sulkiness to his new master, one of the workmen was directed to shoot him: who inadvertently complied, the shot passing through his neck; which not proving fatal, and the Negro becoming outrageous in consequence of the wound, a second shot was discharged, which penetrated the neck, and finished his existence. An inquest was immediately summoned, whose verdict was wilful murder . The deluded person having consulted an Attorney relative to the transactions, was advised to escape from justice; and he departed accordingly.
On Wednesday se'nnight, the regiment of militia, commanded by Col. David Judson was reviewed at Washington. A considerable part of the regiment appeared in uniform, blue faced with red. Gentlemen experienced in the Art Military, speak very highly of the orderly and soldier like conduct of officers and men, who went through the various exercises of the day, very much to the honor and reputation of the whole.—The 19th Company of Cavalry, annexed to the 5th regiment, commanded by Capt. Taylor, mustered at this review; whose martial appearance added much to the splendor of the day. This new company, under the direction of the enterprising and vigilant young officers who conduct it, bids fair to equal, if not rival, any company in the regiment.
EASTON, (M.) Oct. 18.
John F. Mercer, Esq. offers himself as a candidate to Congress to supply the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of William Pinckney, Esq.
RICHMOND, October 19.
On Monday last, being the day appointed for the meeting of the General Assembly of this Commonwealth, a quorum of the House of Delegates being convened at the Capitol in this city, they proceeded to appoint a Clerk, and made choice of Mr. Charles Hay; after which they proceeded to choose a Speaker, when the Hon. Thomas Matthews, Esq. was unanimously elected; and being conducted to the chair, he made his acknowledgments to the House for the honor conferred on him.
NEW-YORK, October 26.
Last Monday night, about 11 o'clock, a building in Broad-street, occupied by Mr. Nitchie, manufacturer of starch and hair-powder, took fire, and was very soon reduced to ashes. Considerable damage was done to an adjoining house.
We hear from Philadelphia, that the Hon. Thomas Jefferson, Esq. Secretary of State for the United States, has appointed Capt. Philip Freneau, Interpreter of the French Language for the Department of State. By order of Sir John Temple, Baronet, his Britannic Majesty's Consul General, throughout the United States of America:
INFORMATION is hereby given for the government of all masters or commanders of British vessels, who may arrive at the ports of the said United States, that an act of Parliament of the eleventh and twelfth of William the third [made perpetual by the act of the 9th of George the first] enacts, "that if any master of a merchant ship, shall, during his being abroad, force any man on shore, or wilfully leave him behind, in any of his Majesty's plantations, or elsewhere, shall, being thereof legally convicted, suffer three months imprisonment, without bail or mainprize."
DUMFRIES, October 20.
WE, the Grand Jury for the District of Dumfries, do present as a grievance, the existing laws of this Commonwealth; whereby landed Property is protected from sale by execution for payment of debts.
We see with regret, many instances of injustice, and we apprehend much immorality is thereby encouraged.
Philadelphia, October 29.
MEMBERS OF THE SECOND CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES.
SENATE.
Table with 2 columns: State, Name. Rows include New-Hampshire (John Langdon, Paine Wingate), Massachusetts (Caleb Strong, George Cabot), Rhode-Island (Theodore Foster, Joseph Stanton, jun.), Connecticut (Roger Sherman, Oliver Ellsworth), New-York (Rufus King, Aaron Burr), New-Jersey (Philemon Dickinson, John Rutherford), Pennsylvania (Robert Morris), Delaware (Richard Bassett, George Read), Maryland (John Henry, Charles Carroll), Virginia (Richard Henry Lee, James Monroe), North-Carolina (Samuel Johnston, Benjamin Hawkins), South-Carolina (Pierce Butler, Ralph Izard), Georgia (William Few, James Gunn), Vermont.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Table with 2 columns: State, Name. Rows include New-Hampshire (Samuel Livermore, Nicholas Gilman, Jeremiah Smith*), Massachusetts (Fisher Ames, Elbridge Gerry, Benjamin Goodhue, Theodore Sedgwick, George Thatcher, Artemas Ward*, Shearjashub Bourne*), Rhode-Island (Benjamin Bourne), Connecticut (Jonathan Trumbull, Jeremiah Wadsworth, James A. Hillhouse*, Jonathan Sturges, Amasa Learned*), New-York (John Lawrance, Egbert Benson, Peter Sylvester, James Gordon*, Thomas Tredwell*, Cornelius C. Schoonmaker*), New-Jersey (Abraham Clark*, Jonathan Dayton*, Elias Boudinot, Aaron Kitchell*), Pennsylvania (F. A. Muhlenberg, Thomas Fitzsimons, Daniel Heister, Israel Jacobs*, Jonathan Wilkes Kittera*, Thomas Hartley, William Findley*), Delaware (John Vining), Maryland (Joshua Seney, Samuel Serret*, Upton Sheredine*, Philip Key*, William Vans Murray*), Virginia (John Brown, William B. Giles, Samuel Griffin, Richard Bland Lee, James Madison, Andrew Moore, John Page, Alexander White, Josiah Parker, Abraham Venable*), North-Carolina (John Baptist Ashe, John Steele, Hugh Williamson, William Barry Groves*, Nathaniel Macon*), South-Carolina (Daniel Huger, William Smith, Thomas Sumpter, Thomas Tudor Tucker, Robert Barnwell*), Georgia (Abraham Baldwin, Francis Willis*, Anthony Wayne), Vermont, Kentucky (comes into the Union in June, 1792).
Those with this * mark were not members of the first Congress.
The grand Constitutional Chart being finished, was on Saturday, Sept. 3, presented to the King of the French—who observed to the committee, on its being put into his hands—
"I now receive the Constitution presented to me by the National Assembly. I shall inform them of my resolution, after the shortest possible delay which the examination of such an important object demands.—I am resolved to remain in Paris—I shall give the necessary orders to the Commandant-General of the National Parisian troops respecting my Guards."
The Thuilleries were opened, and the centinels posted to prevent the entrance of strangers removed.
The repeated instances of fire's breaking out in various parts of the city, have excited strong suspicions of a treacherous and infernal design to make a general conflagration—that, in the confusion, the property of the citizens may be plundered.
Says a Correspondent—Public opinion governs every thing—and therefore every thing should be done to enlighten it. The Newspapers have been stopped or have passed with considerable difficulty through the Post-Offices. This ought not to be so. Transmitting the Newspapers from one end of the Continent to the other, need not cost the public a farthing. A light charge upon the carriage would defray the expence, and insure the delivery. They ought to pass under the protection of law as safely as letters.
Arrived in town since our last the Hon. Mr. HAMMOND, deputed from the Court of London to the United States of America.
Copy of a letter from the Consul of the United States in London, to the Secretary of State.
LONDON, August 10, 1791.
SIR, I BEG that you will be pleased to make it publickly known to the citizens of the United States, that all American shipping carrying tobacco, &c. to the ports of Guernsey and Jersey, are subject to seizure, under an act of parliament, in the reign of Charles the second, that they may govern themselves accordingly. I have the honor to be, &c.
From PELOSI's MARINE LIST.
Table with 3 columns: ARRIVALS at the PORT OF PHILADELPHIA. Ship, Name, Port. Rows include Jamaica, Sparks, London; Sloop Ann, Gardner, Nantucket; Nancy, Moffet, Virginia; Brothers, Gros, Ditto.
PRICE CURRENT.—PUBLIC SECURITIES.
Table with 3 columns: FUNDED DEBT. 6 pr. Cents, 22 1/2 pr. £., 110 pr. cent. 3 pr. Cents, 12 1/2 pr. £., 62 1/2 do. Deferred 6 pr. Cents, 13 3/4 pr. £., 66 3/4 do. UNFUNDED DEBT. Final Sett. and other Certificates 16 3/4 17 1/2 85 do. Indents 10 5/8 52 1/2 do. Bank Subscriptions, 150 Dollars.

FROM A LONDON PAPER.
DEATH ALIVE.
A favourite Ballad, written, composed, and sung by Mr. DIBDIN, in his ENTERTAINMENT OF THE WAGS.
I. SINCE by cutting of trotes all glories encrease, Of war let us sing, because why? it brings peace; Of hacking and hewing in front and in rear, Of some kill'd by sword, and some dying through fear. Death alive! what sweet slaughter, and cutting, and scars, Is it honor you'd seek, and wo'n't go to the wars? When death his long scythe bathes in gore to the hilt, And whips heads from shoulders so clever, And where, should you get the good luck to be kill'd, By my soul—you'll be living forever!
II. The army's drawn out, and confusion's begun, While our arms shine so bright, that they dazzle the sun; O the glorious fight—but the best of the joke, The devil a foul we are seeing—but smoke! Death alive! &c.
III. Like a Will o' the Wisps, while our glory it fires, See glory lead on over bushes and briars, Pals! begone! hiccus doxius! just like cup and ball, Now 'tis here, and now there, and now—no where at all? Death alive! &c.
IV. That war is delightful then who can deny? To be living forever, ah, who would not die? Your fame's up from the moment it puts you to bed, And you grow a great man—by the loss of your head! Death alive! &c.
MASSACHUSETTS SEMI-ANNUAL LOTTERY. CLASS SECOND.
THIS Class will positively commence drawing on Thursday the 24th of November next, at 4 o'clock, P. M. which will be completed with all expedition.—The Managers pledge themselves that no consideration whatever shall induce them to postpone the drawing a moment beyond that time. Boston, October 15, 1791.
A Young Gentleman, of American birth and education (being a graduate) would for a liberal compensation engage as Tutor in a family, or take charge of an Academy, to teach the Latin and English Languages. He has had some experience in teaching, and trusts he can exhibit satisfactory recommendations. Any letters upon this subject, post paid, addressed to A—S—, and the care of the Editor hereof, prior to the 25th December, will be punctually attended to. October 22, 1791. [12W]
Funds of the United States.
ALL kinds of the Public Debt of the Union, bought, sold, or exchanged; Foreign and Inland Bills of Exchange negotiated; Merchandise of all sorts bought and sold on Commission, and all other Business in the line of a Broker, transacted by WILLIAM CLELAND, At the Office next door to the Custom-House, State-Street, BOSTON. 2m
IMPERIAL HYSON, SOUCHONG, and BOHEA T E A S, REFINED SUGARS, COFFEE, & SPICES, &c. &c. Of the first quality—by retail, No 19, Third-Street, between Chestnut and Market Streets.
Lectures on Government & Law.
The Honorable JAMES WILSON, L. L. D. Professor of Laws in the College and Academy of Philadelphia, proposes to deliver, next Winter, two Courses of Lectures. One Course to begin on the Second Monday, the other on the Second Tuesday of December. WILLIAM ROGERS, Secretary to the Board of Faculty. Philadelphia, October 12, 1791. [ep1D]
PUBLIC SECURITIES,
BOUGHT and SOLD, on COMMISSION, by SAMUEL ANDERSON, Chestnut-Street, next door to the Bank, No. 97. MASSACHUSETTS SEMI-ANNUAL, AND NEW-HAVEN LOTTERY TICKETS, To be had at the same place.
WANTED, A NUMBER OF
Journeymen Cordwainers, Who will find constant employment and generous wages, by applying to the Master Cordwainers of the City of Philadelphia. October 22, 1791. [entf]
Wanted, a good COOK,
To whom genteel wages will be allowed. None need apply who cannot be well recommended. Enquire of the Printer.
W. M C DOUGALL'S DANCING SCHOOL,
Is now opened at his School-Room, No. 28, Carter's Alley.
HE returns his sincere thanks for the great encouragement he has experienced these eighteen years; hopes the reputation of his school for decorum and good order, as well as the performance of his scholars, will still ensure him a respectable share of the public favor.
A number of new Cotillions and Country Dances will be taught during the season.
Those who please to honor him with the tuition of their children, may be assured, they will be taught in the most approved stile, and that proper attention will be paid to their carriage and manners.
A general practising for the improvement of the scholars, will be held at the New Rooms, every other Wednesday; when the employers, and strangers of genteel deportment, will be admitted. These practisings will be attended with no expence.
N. B. An EVENING SCHOOL will be opened for grown Gentlemen, as soon as a sufficient number offer. Philadelphia, September 14, 1791. (t. f.)
UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA, October 7, 1791.
The MEDICAL LECTURES will begin on the first Monday in November next.
The JOURNAL of the THIRD SESSION of the SENATE of the UNITED STATES, may be had of the Editor hereof.
PRINTS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION.
THE subscribers to the Prints of the Battle of Bunker's Hill, and the attack of Quebec, are informed, that Etchings of those Prints are to be seen at Mr. ANTHONY's, Jeweller, in Market-street—(where may also be seen an Etching of Mr. CORLEY's celebrated Print of the Death of Lord CHATHAM.)
The subscription for this work (which has hitherto been confined to America) will be opened on the 1st of January next, in the principal cities of Europe: Those Gentlemen therefore who may wish to possess early, and of course valuable impressions, are requested to avail themselves of this interval, in which a preference is still given to America.
Subscriptions are received by Mr. TRUMBULL, and by Mr. ANTHONY, Jeweller, Philadelphia; Mr. DANIEL PENFIELD, Water-street, New-York; Mr. WILLIAM WAYNE, Bolton; and Mr. R. HAZLEHURST, Charleston, South-Carolina.
The price to subscribers is Three Guineas for each Print—one half to be paid at the time of subscribing, the remainder when the Prints shall be delivered. Philadelphia, October 24, 1791.
JOHN PINTARD, SWORN BROKER & AUCTIONEER, PURCHASES and SELLS
PUBLIC DEBT of every description, on Commission, at the following rates:
ON the specie amount of all sales at auction, one eighth per cent.
On ditto at private sale or purchase, one-half per cent.
On remittances, ditto.
Receiving interest at the Loan-Office, one per cent. on the amount of the interest.
For making transfers at ditto, seventy-five cents per transfer.
Such persons as may incline to favor the subscriber with their orders, may rely on their being executed with punctuality, fidelity and dispatch. His long experience and extensive dealings in the public stocks, together with a well established correspondence throughout the United States, enable him to conduct his operations with peculiar benefit to his employers.
JOHN PINTARD, New-York, No. 57, King-Street.
October 15, 1791.
TO BE SOLD, And possession given immediately,
That pleasantly situated FARM
Whereon the subscriber now lives.
IT lies on the road from Princeton to Brunswick, about a mile and a half from the former. It contains 213 acres, whereof 47 are woodland, upwards of 30 meadow, and 20 more may be made. Also a young orchard of 200 apple trees, besides a variety of peach and cherry trees, and a large garden; the whole under good fence. There are on the premises a two story stone house and kitchen, with an elegant piazza, the whole painted and finished. Also, a smoke-house, work-shop, granary, waggon-house; barrack cow-houses, two stories high and 90 feet long, and a good barn, with stabling. From the buildings there are charming views of Princeton, the neighbouring farms, and Monmouth hills. Any person inclining to purchase, may know the terms by applying to the subscriber on the premises, or to ISAAC SNOWDEN, No. 141, South Second-street, Philadelphia.
ISAAC SNOWDEN, Junior.
Princeton, October 10, 1791. [cp2m]
Forty Dollars Reward.
LAST night was broke open the Store of the subscriber, at Bordentown, and stolen from the same the following articles, viz. One hair trunk, containing womens' wearing apparel; 1 small box, containing four clocks and one dozen testaments; 1 ditto containing one bottle green cloth coat, one striped vest and breeches, two shirts and a small bag with 36 dollars and 20s. to 30s. Jersey coppers; 1 keg containing a large bible, with other small books; 1 box containing 447 real ostrich feathers, some of them large and elegant, and of different colours; 2 barrels rye meal, branded Stout and Imlay; 1 barrel pork, 1 ream paper, and 1 dozen pate-boards.—Stolen at the same time, a large Batteau, with black fides.
A reward of Twenty Dollars will be given for the security of the above property, so that the owners may have the articles again, or in proportion for part thereof; also a further reward of Twenty Dollars will be given for the security of the perpetrator or perpetrators, so that they may be brought to justice, by JOHN VAN EMBURGH. Bordentown, New-Jersey, Sept. 1, 1791. [ep1f]
Thirty Dollars Reward.
RUN AWAY, some time in August 1789, a yellow NEGRO MAN, named ABRAHAM, late the property of Nathaniel Wickliff, deceased—about forty-five years of age, about five feet eight or nine inches high, pretty well set, with a large woolly head and large beard, walks with his knees bent, often complains of pains in his feet and ankles—by trade a bricklayer, stone mason and plasterer. He is a very handy fellow as a house-waiter, and is fond of such business. He is a great dissembler, and no doubt pretends he is a freeman. He has been eloped so long that no description of his present clothing can be given. It is supposed that he went to the Northern States, as he often mentioned having friends there.—Twenty Dollars reward will be given to any person that will secure said Negro in any jail, so that the subscriber may get him again; and reasonable charges will be paid—or Thirty Dollars will be given if he is brought to Prince William County, Virginia, to Mr. JOHN KINCHELOE, by CHARLES WICKLIFF, Administrator. October 12, 1791. [12W]
HOLY BIBLE.---Royal Quarto.
MR. THOMAS, of Worcester, Massachusetts, most respectfully informs the public, that he has this day completed the Old and New Testaments of his Royal Quarto Edition of the HOLY BIBLE. The Apocrypha and Index, &c. will be finished with all the dispatch the nature of the work will admit.
Such Gentlemen as hold SUBSCRIPTION PAPERS, he begs will return them to him at Worcester, or to him and Company at Boston, by the last day of November next, and as much sooner as they conveniently can.
He is happy to inform the public, that the work has been examined by many gentlemen, clergymen and others, and has met with their highest approbation; both as to the execution of the printing, its correctness, and its cheapness compared with English copies of the same size and quality.
As this very laborious and exceedingly expensive undertaking, is carried on solely at his own cost, he is led to hope that all those who wish to possess a large Family Bible, will so far encourage this laudable undertaking of their countryman, as to add their names to the subscription.
Worcester, Sept. 29, 1791. ISAIAH THOMAS.
Published, and to be sold by the Editor, price 4th of a Dollar, TWENTY-SIX LETTERS, On the most important Subjects, Respecting the REVOLUTION OF AMERICA. Written in Holland in the year 1789, By the VICE-PRESIDENT of the United States.
PLAN OF THE
Gazette of the United States.
EARLY and authentic accounts of the Proceedings of Congress, communicated so as to form an history of the transactions of the National Government.
II. Laws, &c. of the United States.
III. Impartial Sketches of the Debates of Congress.
IV. Essays on the great subjects of Government; also upon the local and national rights of the American citizens, as founded in nature, or on the national or state Constitutions; and on other subjects suitable for newspaper discussion.
V. A series of Paragraphs, calculated to catch the "living manners as they rise," and to point the public attention to objects that have an important reference to domestic, social and public happiness.
VI. The Interests of the United States, as connected with their literary Institutions; religious and moral objects; improvements in Science, Arts, Education and Humanity; their foreign treaties, alliances, connections, &c.
VII. Intelligence which may affect the commercial, agricultural, manufacturing, or political interests of the American nation.
VIII. A chain of Domestic Occurrences.
IX. A series of foreign articles of Intelligence.
X. The state of the Funds; Courses of Exchange; Prices Current.
CONDITIONS.
Published every WEDNESDAY and SATURDAY.
The price to subscribers, THREE DOLLARS per annum.
The first semi-annual payment to be made at the time of subscribing: The second at the end of the year.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Will be received in all the capital towns upon the Continent; also at No. 69, High-Street, between Second and Third Streets, Philadelphia.
ORIGINAL ADDRESS.
TO THE PUBLIC.
AT this important crisis, the ideas that fill the mind, are pregnant with events of the greatest magnitude—to strengthen and complete the union of the States—to extend and protect their commerce—to explore and arrange the national funds—to restore and establish the public credit—will require the energies of the patriots and sages of our country—Hence the propriety of encreasing the means of knowledge and information.
AMERICA, from this period begins her national existence—"THE WORLD IS ALL BEFORE HER"—the wisdom and folly—the misery and prosperity of the empires, states, and kingdoms, which have had their day upon the great theatre of time, and are now no more, suggest the most important mementos—these, with the rapid series of events, in which our country has been involved, have taught the enlightened citizens of the United States, that freedom and government, liberty and laws, are inseparable.
This conviction led to the adoption of the new constitution; for however various the sentiments, respecting the merits of this system, all GOOD MEN are agreed in the necessity of an efficient federal government.
A paper, therefore, established upon national, independent, and impartial principles—which shall take up the premises articles, upon a competent plan, it is presumed, will be highly interesting, and meet with public approbation and patronage.
The Editor of this publication is determined to leave no avenue of information unexplored:—He solicits the assistance of persons of leisure and abilities—which, united with his own assiduity, he flatters himself will render the Gazette of the United States not unworthy general encouragement—and is, with due respect, the public's humble servant, April 15, 1789. THE EDITOR.
POSTSCRIPT.
THE plan and execution of the GAZETTE OF THE UNITED STATES, have received the approbation of a tribunal, from which there is no appeal.
The subscriptions, which are encreasing, have long since exceeded the expectations of the publisher—a punctilious compliance with the terms would compensate his labours, and animate his future exertions.
The Government that an enlightened and free people adopt, is a sacred consideration—it knows no party—and its prosperity is founded on the public good.
While the people are just to themselves, the administration of their affairs will be committed to men of integrity and competent abilities; and it will be the duty of patriotism to impress the public mind with favorable sentiments of the measures of government.
Our country continuing enlightened and free, the period cannot be anticipated when a publication on the plan of this Gazette shall involve a dereliction of those principles with which the liberties and happiness of the United States are connected.
With respect to the circulation of this paper, the Editor regrets the recent disappointments which have unavoidably taken place—he has always been fully impressed with the importance of punctuality, and cannot charge himself with a single instance of remissness.
It is very generally supposed that Congress, at the ensuing session, will take measures to ensure the circulation of NEWS-PAPERS in the United States; and particularly their transmission from the Seat of Government to all parts of the Union. Justice, policy and patriotism, plead irresistibly in favor of some effectual provision's being made. The following pertinent and judicious observations on this subject, lately appeared in an address to the public from the Editor of the GAZETTE OF MAINE. They are substituted in preference to any thing which the editor of this paper might further suggest, more particularly as coming from a remote quarter of the Union.
"Perhaps there is no country, in any part of the world, the inhabitants of which are, (or may be) supplied with public Newspapers at a cheaper rate than those of America. The Farmer and the Merchant, the Laborer and the Mechanic, may, by the means of a public Paper, when he retires from the business and fatigue of the day, take a view of the situation, the circumstances and the various revolutions of the several countries of the civilized world—And it must be a pleasing circumstance, that this is the privilege, emphatically the privilege of an American."
"Let it therefore be remembered, that by virtue of this privilege, the body of the people constantly obtain and preserve such a degree of knowledge as shall be competent to the prevention of any attempt that may be made by cunning and designing men to sap the foundation of our most invaluable constitution. But, let the circulation of these Vehicles of Public Information be circumscribed, and the people will at once become uninformed of public transactions, and the more enlightened few will engross the privileges, immunities and prerogatives, which in the nature and finis of things, are the indefeasible right of the whole body of the people."
"It is presumed no American will need a stimulus of this nature to furnish himself with public information. The cheap rate at which it is offered, the love and glory of our country, will at all times promote such a mode of conduct, as shall forever bar the attempts of tyranny, ignorance and superstition."
Several of the first volume of this Gazette are wanted—cost, and the original cost, will be paid for them by the Editor.