The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1801-05-01 00:00:00

The National Intelligencer,
AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
Vol. I. WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, NEW-JERSEY AVENUE, NEAR THE CAPITOL. No. LXXVIII.
FIVE DOLLS. PER ANN.
FRIDAY, MAY 18, 1801.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
FOR THE NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER.
HISTORY OF THE LAST SESSION OF CONGRESS.
[CONTINUED.]
On the 14th of February, the electoral votes for President and Vice-President of the U. States were opened in the Senate chamber, in the presence of the Senate and House of Representatives; when it appeared that Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr had each 73 votes; John Adams 65 votes, and C. C. Pinckney 64 votes.
In obedience to the provisions of the Constitution the House of Representatives immediately repaired to their own Chamber, and proceeded to ballot by states, the ballots being confined to Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr, who were equal in votes and the two highest on the list.
The first ballot gave 8 states to Mr. Jefferson, 6 to Mr. Burr, and two were divided. It followed that no election was made, as an absolute majority of all the states was requisite to make a choice.
On the first ballot 104 members voted, 55 of whom voted for Mr. Jefferson, and 49 for Mr. Burr.
According to pre-established rules the House had determined to permit no interruption in the ballot until the election should be closed.
Eight ballots were given, the result the same, previously to 4 P. M. when it was agreed to suspend the next ballot till 5 o'clock, when the house, after a short separation, was resumed, and ballots were repeated, with like results, until 9 A. M. of the next day, no separation having taken place during the night.
The solicitude of the members during this nocturnal sitting, increased by the want of regular repose, had such an effect upon the animal spirits of many of them that the floor of the chamber of the house was strewed with individuals, availing themselves of the interval between the ballots, to recruit their strength, or endeavouring to keep themselves in a state of readiness to support a continuance of the present painful scene, the occasion for which was reciprocally feared on both sides of the house.
At 9 o'clock A. M. of Thursday, however, the house, having taken 27 ballots agreed to suspend the next ballot till 12 at noon; which, being ineffectually taken, a separation took place till Friday at 11 A. M. On Friday two ballots were taken, the results till continuing the same. On Saturday, three ballots, terminating in a similar manner, were taken. On Monday following the 34th ballot was taken, result the same.
On Tuesday the 17th of February the 36th ballot was taken; when it was announced that Thomas Jefferson was elected President, the ballots of 10 states being for him, viz. those of Vermont, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina, Georgia, Kentucky and Tennessee.
Four states persisted in their votes for Mr. Burr, viz. Rhode-Island, New-Hampshire, Connecticut and Massachusetts.
And two states, viz. South-Carolina and Delaware, voted by blank ballots.
Thus terminated in a manner propitious to the reign of domestic tranquility, an event, which, during its issue, excited the deepest national feeling. A mighty struggle had been made by contending parties. The friends of Mr. Adams's administration had brought into the political field their undivided strength, which the result of the electoral votes demonstrated to be inferior to that of the republican interest, which had triumphantly nominated Mr. Jefferson to the presidency, and Mr. Burr to the vice presidency. Owing to a defect in the Constitution, which forbade to discriminate between the two candidates, the House of Representatives became possessed of the nominal right to choose either. The federal side of the House, from motives which
have never been developed, determined to vote for Mr. Burr in preference to Mr. Jefferson. It has been alleged that their object was to defeat the election of both; in which event it was contemplated to create a legislative President. It would perhaps be as unjust to ascribe this motive to the party collectively, as it would be to withhold it from some of its leading members. The idea was avowed. The republicans, from one end of the union to the other, without concert, formed one opinion, and announced one common resolution. They declared, that, obedient to the constitution, they would acquiesce in the election of either Mr. Jefferson or Mr. Burr; but that they would oppose, if necessary, by force any usurpation which should, in any event, be attempted. The determination, when first avowed, was ridiculed; but so irresistible and overwhelming became the proofs of it, that party spirit shrunk appalled from the precipice it had reached, and permitted the voice of the people, previously expressed in the most unequivocal manner, ultimately to prevail.
On the 18th of February the house of Representatives appointed a committee, consisting of five members, all of whom were republican, to report such measures as it would be proper to adopt to accommodate the President elect. The committee reported that of the sum previously appropriated there remained unexpended about 6,000 dollars, which in their opinion would be adequate to all necessary accommodation. When this report was taken into consideration, it was strenuously opposed by Messrs. Harper, Craik and Bayard, who contended that the sum remaining unexpended was entirely incommensurate to the accommodation of the President in his new apartments. Mr. Harper observed that though the president's house was neither too large nor too elegant, yet the furniture was by no means fitted to it. He therefore moved an additional application of 10,000 dollars.
This motion was opposed by Messrs. Nicholas, S. Smith, Varnum, and Macon, who were of opinion that the sum in hand would be quite sufficient to insure that decency of style which the manner of living of the president required. Mr. Macon observed that for his part he saw no more occasion for furnishing a house for the president than for the heads of departments; if the president chose to live in style 25,000 dollars a year was quite sufficient to enable him to do so, and if he could not live upon that sum, he could not upon any. Forty-five thousand dollars had been already appropriated for the purchase of furniture.
In the course of the debate, it was further remarked that though the monies applied to the accommodation of Mr. Adams had been expressly appropriated to the providing household furniture, yet a different construction had strangely been put on the law, as in the inventory of articles remaining on hand, was to be seen an item of seven horses and a carriage, and even a market waggon together with harness.
The motion of Mr. Harper was lost, and the report of the committee, unamended, prevailed.
On the 26th of February the H. of Representatives took up a bill for the navy peace establishment. Both sides of the house concurred in the propriety of a considerable reduction of the existing force, but differed in the degree to which it should be carried. Propositions to place on half pay all the dismissed officers and to continue the marine corps entire, came from the federal side of the house, but were rejected, the first proposition by a majority of one, and the second by a majority of 13.
After undergoing several modifications the bill passed both houses. It reduced the existing force, which consisted of forty vessels, to 13 frigates, viz. 5 of 44 guns, and 1 of 36 guns, which were directed to be kept in a state of readiness for service; and 2 of 36, 2 of 32, and 3 of 24, which were directed to be laid up. It directed that all the other vessels should be sold. It prescribed the continuance of 9 captains, 36 lieutenants, and 150 midshipmen, who are to have only half pay when not actually employed in service.
Previously to this reduction, Congress had appropriated 500,000 dollars for the expenses attending 6 seventy fours, and for completing navy yards, docks and wharves.
By the provisions of this act an immediate annual saving to the United States of nearly two millions of dollars was effected, independent of the proceeds of the sales directed to be made. In many respects this measure may be viewed as the most important of the session. It not only liberated the Treasury from an encumbrance, which required the imposition of heavy taxes, but it gave a check to the rapid growth of an establishment, by the experience of other countries demonstrated to be unlimited in expence and dangerous of management; and while this measure brought with it immediate benefit to the community, it was considered as a pledge of other radical economical reforms.
TRANSLATION.
Declaration of war of the King of Spain, against the Queen of Portugal.
FROM THE MADRID GAZETTE.
MADRID, 3d March.
The King has been pleased to address to all his Councils the following decree:—
“When I fortunately made peace with the French Republic, it was one of my first cares to facilitate to other Powers the same advantage, having more particularly in mind those with whom I found myself connected by the ties of blood; and the republic offered to admit my good offices for the former, and my mediation for the latter. From that period I have employed repeated and active endeavours to procure an advantageous peace for Portugal, conformably to the reservation in the said Treaty which I always kept in view, and to the necessity in which she stood of a tranquil administration. In this, besides the ultimate end which I more immediately proposed to attain, the advantage of Portugal, I had in view the insulating her from England, and separating her from a Country, to whom she was so valuable from her maritime position, and thus compelling, if possible, that Country to make a peace, desired by all Europe and which she alone obstinately prevented. My repeated and effectual persuasions had apparently overcome the repugnance, which the Portuguese Cabinet, governed by that of London, had always shewn to an accommodation with the Republic, and their Plenipotentiaries in Paris signed in the year 1797 a more advantageous Treaty than could have been expected in the relative situation of the two Countries. However, England seeing that it snatched out of her hands an Instrument so useful to her ambitious views, redoubled her efforts, and abusing the credulity of that Cabinet with ideas of chimerical aggrandizement, made it take the extraordinary resolution of withholding its ratification, thus frustrating my hopes, and forgetting what it owed to itself as well as what was due to my high mediation.”
From that time the Conduct of that Government took a more marked character, and not satisfied with furnishing my enemy, England, with all the means in its power to attack me and my ally, the French republic, its delirium has even gone so far as to injure directly my subjects and to offend my dignity by a pertinacious resistance to my salutary Councils. Thus has all Europe seen its Ports scandalously become the safe asylum of the Enemy's squadrons and the advantageous stations from whence their cruisers might profitably exercise hostility against my vessels and those of my ally the Republic. Portuguese ships united with those of the enemy have been seen forming parts of their squadrons, facilitating to them the transport of provisions, and aiding them in all their operations of war against me. We have seen their officers and crews of their ships of war insulting French citizens in the very port of Carthagena, and the Court of Portugal sanction such proceedings by refusing to give
proper satisfaction; in Ferrol they committed similar outrages against my own subjects. The harbours of Portugal are become public markets for Spanish and French prizes made on their very coasts and in sight of their Forts by the enemy's privateers, nay, their admiralty even condemns prizes which my subjects have taken on the high seas and have carried into their ports for sale. My ships of war have met with a cold reception in their ports. In the river Guadiana Portuguese soldiers have committed outrages against my peaceable subjects, firing on and wounding them as in time of war, without the Portuguese Government having shewn any marks of disapprobation. In a word, Portugal it may be said, has under the mask of friendship, acted hostily against my Kingdoms in Europe and the Indies, and the evidence of her conduct dispenses with a reference to the multitude of facts which might be cited in support of the charge.
And what has been my conduct in the midst of so many outrages? The French Republic justly offended with Portugal, intended to take a just satisfaction, and her arms, every where victorious, would on a thousand occasions, have spread desolation throughout her provinces, if my fraternal regard for her most faithful Majesty and her august children had not hitherto induced the Republic my ally to suspend the blow; the French have in fact always checked themselves on the threshold of my mediation. My paternal love for those Princes making me forget on every recent injury those which had preceded it, inspired me with the idea of availing myself of the successes of the French arms to persuade Portugal, to peace by gentle means, to represent to her in lively colors the dangers to which she was exposed, and to employ, in the full effusion of my heart, the interesting language of fraternal love and of the most sincere friendship to attain that object.
The obstinacy of Portugal obliged me, in the sequel, to assume a more assuming style, and with well founded admonitions, with threats of my anger, and with intimations which ought to have been respected, I sought to bring her back to her true obligations. But the court of Lisbon, always deaf to my voice, only sought to gain time, making idle promises, sending over and over again plenipotentiaries without power, or with limited ones, protracting their discussions, and resorting to all the miserable subterfuges of a false and unsteady policy: The blindness of the prince regent has even gone so far as to call the king of Great Britain his ally, in a letter which he addressed to me—thus forgetting what he owed to the sanctity of his ties with me, and the respect due to my person, and thus calling an alliance that which in truth was nothing more than an indecent abuse of the ascendancy which England has acquired over him.
Under such circumstances, having exhausted every means of gentleness—having completely acquitted myself of all the duties imposed by the ties of blood and my affection for the princes of Portugal—convinced of the futility of further efforts, and finding that the prince regent had forfeited the sanctity of his royal word, given on various occasions respecting peace, and had thus compromised my promises to France, and this to gratify my enemy, England—I thought that a further acquiescence on my part would be inconsistent with the welfare of my people, injured in their property by an unjust aggressor, would be a forgetfulness of my own dignity, neglected by a son, who sought to break the respectable ties which united him to my person—an unjust return to my faithful ally, the French republic, which had so often suspended her vengeance for repeated injuries: in short, a contradiction to those principles of sound policy which regulated my conduct as sovereign. Notwithstanding, before I finally resolved to resort to the painful extremity of war, I was desirous, for the last time, to renew my propositions to her most faithful majesty, to whom I accordingly sent my ambassador the duke of Frias, who, reviewing the different periods of this protracted negotiation, represented

to her majesty how disrespectful and unjust her conduct had been, displayed the abyss which threatened her, with the only means to avoid it, by a treaty which France would still be disposed to listen to, out of regard to my mediation.
The court of Portugal replied in the same terms as heretofore, and sent a negotiator without sufficient powers, at the same time rejecting my ultimatum—Wherefore it being so essential for the tranquility of Europe to compel that government to make its peace with France, and to obtain for my beloved subjects those indemnifications to which they have so well founded a claim, I have ordered my ambassador to leave Lisbon, and have given passports to the Portuguese ambassador for the same purpose, resolving, though with pain, to attack that power, by uniting my forces with those of my ally the republic, whose cause is assimilated with mine by the compromitment of my neglected mediation, by our common interest, and for satisfaction of my own wrongs—And for this effect, I declare war against her M. F. majesty, her kingdoms and subjects, and I order this determination to be communicated to all my dominions, to the end that all fit means be resorted to for the defence of my beloved subjects, and for the attack of the enemy.
Given at Aranjuez, 27th Feb. 1801.
FOR SALE.
THE SUBSCRIBER offers for Sale, four hundred ACRES of Valuable Land upon the Eastern Branch, opposite the City of Washington. It is bounded by the Water, from opposite the Navy Yard, nearly up to Dyer's Ferry; and extends back across that range of hills, South east of the City where are several elegant situations, for Buildings, as any in its vicinity. Two hundred and fifty Acres at least are covered with wood and Timber; which independent of every expence, will in the Judgment of Judicious persons, yield to a purchaser, fifty per cent more than the proprietor will ask for the land. The soil upon the water, is a rich sandy loam of course excellent for early vegetables of every kind, clover &c. As all doubt respecting the continuance of the Government at Washington, must surely now be removed from the mind of the most incredulous, the subscriber is induced to offer this property for sale, in the expectation, that it must attract the attention of those who have money, and who wish to vest it in such a manner, as will produce an handsome interest for the present without risque, and the chance of a great rise in value, as the City increases in Population and wealth. A fourth, a third, a half, or the whole may be purchased upon easy terms by applying to
ANTHONY ADDISON,
At BARNABY, three miles from Dyer's Ferry. Washington, April 6, 1801. tm.
Public Sale of LOTS, IN WASHINGTON CITY.
WILL be Sold at Public Auction, to the highest bidder, on Friday the 1st. day of May next, at William Tunnicliff's Hotel. Two Hundred Lots, situated Eastward of the Capitol and near to the Eastern Branch Ferry—the terms will be one half Cash and the other half at 60 days on Notes negotiable at the Bank of Columbia satisfactorily endorsed. An indisputable title will be given by,
GEORGE WALKER.
Washington, March 2, 1801. tMay
BUILDERS.
WILLIAM LOVERING, of George-Town, and WILLIAM DYER, of the City of Washington, having commenced partnership in the Architectural and Carpenter line of business, which they are determined to carry on with assiduity, integrity and dispatch, hope for the patronage of their friends and the public.
Having a number of the best workmen now employed, are ready to execute any orders which they are determined shall be done in the best workman-like manner for those who will please to favor them with their commands.
Orders directed to W. LOVERING, Gay Street near the Union Tavern, George Town, or to W. DYER, 1 Street, North of the new War Office, City of Washington, will be punctually attended to.
N. B. WM. LOVERING has been in the practice of drawing for and superintending great part of the Buildings in the City of Washington and its Vicinity.
Washington, April 1. tf.
LOTS FOR SALE,
In the City of WASHINGTON.
THE SUBSCRIBER offers for Sale a number of valuable Lots beautifully situated between the Capitol and the Eastern Branch. Also a few Lots to be let on lease for ninety nine years in the vicinity of the Navy yard.
WILLIAM PROUT.
City of Washington. December 12, 1800. tf
N. B. A few Tons of good Meadow Hay, one Kiln of Bricks, and some Cord Wood.
W. P.
FOR SALE,
A young Negro Girl,
About 15 years old—Apply at this office.
April 22, 1801. tf
Short Description of the four West-India Islands lately captured by the British.
St. THOMAS—(Danish.)
The principal island subject to the Danes in the West-Indies, is situated in 64 degrees 20 minutes west longitude, and in 18 degrees 30 minutes north latitude; being about fifteen miles in circumference. Its harbor is safe and commodious, and has two mounds, which appear as if raised by nature for the purpose of mounting batteries. Almost in its centre there is a small fort, without either ditch or out-works; and, about sixty paces to the west, the town commences consisting principally of one long street, at the end of which is the Danish factory, a large convenient building for the stowage of merchandise and the reception of negroes. On the right side of this factory stands the Brandenburgh Quarter, which consists of two short streets, chiefly inhabited by refugees from Europe and the islands. The houses are chiefly built of brick, tiled after the Dutch manner, and only one story high.
The island of St. Thomas produces oranges, citrons, lemons, guavas, bananas, mandiacca, millet, and various other fruits: it likewise yields sugar-canes and tobacco; and is excellently adapted for pasturage. So much, indeed, has it lately improved, that it now produces annually upwards of three thousand hogheads of sugar, at one thousand pounds each; as well as other West-India commodities, in as great plenty as can reasonably be expected from its narrow limits.
St. CROIX—(Danish.)
This island is situated about five leagues east of St. Thomas, in 18 degrees north latitude, and in 65 west longitude, being about ten leagues in length, and between two and three in breadth. The climate is extremely unhealthy; but as this infallibility probably arises from the thickness of its woods, and a consequent obstruction of air, when the soil is properly cleared, that baneful effect may possibly cease. Its productions are nearly the same with those of St. Thomas, though in smaller quantities. Indeed, while those islands remained in the hands of the Danish West-India company, they were of very little consequence to the Danes; but that wise and benevolent prince the late king of Denmark, bought up the company's stock, and laid open the trade; and, since that period, the good effects of his prudent regulations have every day become more and more perceptible.
With respect to Santa Cruz, from having been but a few years since a perfect desert, it is now beginning to flourish very rapidly; several persons from the English plantations, and some of them very wealthy, having gone to settle there, in consequence of the great encouragement held out to them.
In time of war, privateers bring their prizes to these islands; and a great number of vessels trade from thence along the Spanish main, and return with valuable merchandise, and money in specie and bars.
St. BARTHOLOMEW, (Swedish)
This island, which is situated in 18 degrees north latitude, and in 62 degrees 30 minutes west longitude, is reckoned about fifteen miles in circumference. It produces tobacco, cassava, and a variety of fruits and trees; but being environed by rocks, its approach is thereby rendered dangerous for ships of any considerable burden. However, it contains one very good harbour, and this circumstance enabled the French, who originally colonized it, to annoy the English trade greatly in time of war.
St. MARTINS, (French)
Was originally settled by the French and Dutch, but was taken from the latter by the French a few years ago.
The island is about fifteen or sixteen leagues round, and contains a considerable number of hills, which are so many rocks covered with heath. The sandy soil of its plains and valleys, which is in itself barren, can only be rendered fruitful by showers, which happen seldom, and are less beneficial in proportion as they are exhaled by the sun, or drained off from the places where they fall. With some care, these casual refreshments might be preserved in reservoirs, and distributed from thence so as to produce plenty. As to the rest, this island, which has no river, is furnished with springs and cisterns, which supply the inhabitants with very good water. The air is very wholesome, the coast abounds with fish, the sea is seldom tempestuous, and there is safe anchorage all round the island.
WASHINGTON CITY.
FRIDAY, Mar 1, 1801.
On Wednesday the PRESIDENT of the U. States arrived in this city.
From a New-York paper of April 25.
Yesterday arrived Capt. Newson, in the brig resolution, in 24 days from St. Bartholomews, and brings the following very
IMPORTANT NEWS.
That a squadron of British ships of war, composed of one ninety gun ship, two seventy four's and five frigates, having on board 4000 troops, have taken the following islands in the West-Indies:—On the 20th March they reduced the island of St. Bartholomews: On the 23d of the same month they took the island of St. Martins: And, that both St. Croix and St. Thomas, fell into their hands on the 28th.—
[The New-York Gazette states that the above British squadron consisted of a ninety-eight gun ship, a 74, three frigates, and several brigs and Schooners—to the number of Twenty-three, with 4000 troops—under the command of Sir John Borlase Warren.]
And the New-York Mercantile Advertiser—detailing the same account, by the same captain, states the force of the British squadron at one ship of 90 guns, two 74's, five frigates, and five thousand troops.]
Virginia Election.
Representatives in Congress.
In Prince George.
Nicholas Paulcon, 192 Edwin Gray, 11
William B. Giles is the only candidate for a Representative to Congress for the District composed of the Counties of Dinwiddie, Chesterfield, Nottoway and Amelia, and of course is elected.
In Princess Ann, Norfolk and Nansemond counties, and the borough of Norfolk, T. Newton, has 935 votes, J. Nivison 37, and J. Parker 3.
In Elizabeth City the votes were for John Page 77, for John Stratton, 5.
John Milledge, is elected a member of Congress from the state of Georgia, in the place of James Jones, deceased.
In RHODE-ISLAND, the general election has issued in the triumph of the republicans, who have carried the election of general Staunton for Congress, and a large majority in both branches of the state legislature.
It is stated in an Eastern paper that the Assembly of Connecticut lately elected, consisting of 142 members, contains 120 federal, and 22 republican members.
Returns from 328 towns in Massachusetts give, for governor,
Mr. Strong, 23,002 Mr. Gerry, 18,207
Major. for Mr. Strong, 4,795
Extract of a letter from Barbadoes, to a gentleman in Norwich (Conn.) dated Jan. 30th.
"I am sorry to acquaint you that Barbadoes has never experienced such hard years as the two last, since it was first settled; from dry weather and other calamities—And things have sold higher than ever was known in the memory of man—for I gave the last week as high as three dollars and 1-4 per bushel for Indian Corn, for the plantation use.—There will be little or no sugar made the next crop, as the Bours have destroyed the canes throughout the island.
"We have now a hard lot before us, either to go without the usual supplies from Great Britain, and to make what shift we can in substitutes for Butter, Beef, Pork, or to starve, as I may rightly term our situation.—The prohibiting the exportation of provisions from England and Ireland has occasioned this scarcity. Butter is now 3s. per the firkin, and getting higher; Beef and Pork from £. 8 a £ 10 per barrel, and no chance of its being lower for some time."
We did not see until Saturday, in a New York paper copied from a paper of this city, an account stating that the Constellation was righted, and extolling the profound skill of those who had put her in such
a condition as to render it easy to pump her out! We regret that we can neither congratulate the public on the ship being righted, nor those who have been about her for their skill, the only change we know that has taken place in the situation of that ship is, that she at first lay with her deck inclined outward from the city; and that she now lies the other way.
Aurora.
From Wayne's Gazette U. S.
A writ of Capias was this morning served on the Editor of this Gazette, at the suit of the Honorable Doctor MICHAEL LEIB, and Five Thousand Dollars bail demanded, and given, for the Editor's appearance in the Supreme Court.
Extract of a letter dated Marietta, March 16, 1801.
Dear Sir,
Yesterday was launched from the dock in this place, the brig St. Clair, of one hundred tons burden. This vessel is not only the largest, but is by far the best built, of any that has descended the Ohio. It is shortly to proceed to the Havannah. Its cargo is to consist of flour and pork. Several more vessels are to be built immediately at this place. The greatest objection which has been made to this country is, its distance from market. This objection is now entirely done away. Farmers will be able to sell their produce anywhere upon the Ohio. Flour purchased here for three dollars per barrel, can be afforded, even at Boston, for ten.
Owing to the exceeding fertility of the soil, and the mildness of the climate, this country seems to be the best calculated for the farmer of any under heaven; and with its present increase of population, will soon be one of the most flourishing parts of the United States. For the year past, the people of Marietta have enjoyed an uncommon degree of health. Out of upwards of one thousand inhabitants, but one child has died. We have experienced a very mild winter. The weather was so warm in January, that people were obliged to put out their fires, and open their windows. On this sixteenth day of March, while you at Worcester are doubtless shivering over a winter's fire, or freezing your feet and hands in the snow; nature has here arrayed herself in her loveliest green; the trees of the wilderness are unfolding their buds, and the blossoms of the peach and cherry-tree, breathe a delicious fragrance through the air. Yours, &c.
It is important that it should be more generally known, that salting down fish or flesh in the common earthen ware vessels, which are all glazed with lead ore, or in any vessel lined with lead, is a very dangerous practice, as the acid contained in the salt brine or pickle dissolves the lead, which, when taken inwardly, is of a most fatal and poisonous quality; and a small part of it incorporating with the flesh or fish contained in the vessel, occasioned lately a melancholy instance of its effects.
Notice is hereby given
To MERCHANTS trading with the Island of St. DOMINGO,
THAT the Government of the said island, in order to provide against the fraudulent entries and declarations made by traders, with the view of evading the duties laid on the value of goods, have desired the commercial agents of the French Republic in the United States, to attest the prices quoted in the invoice bills as conformable to the prices current in the places from which the shipments are made. In conformity to that desire, the agents aforesaid are directed to give the abovementioned certificates. Such, therefore, as chuse to have their bills so certified, may apply for that purpose to the French Commissaries in the several ports of the United States.
L. A. PICHON.
George-Town (Potomac) 7th Floreal, } 9th year (27th April, 1801.) }
Printers of newspapers in the U. States are requested to insert the above.
New medicinal Store.
JOHN OTT,
Chemist, Druggist and Apothecary, has just received via Philadelphia, a fresh supply of genuine
Drugs and Medicines,
PATENT Medicines, and Surgeon's Instruments which he is determined to sell at the most reasonable prices by wholesale or retail, at the shop formerly occupied by Doctor J. Reinitzel, in George-Town.
At the above place may also be had an assortment of Confectionary and Perfumery; likewise a quantity of window glass 10 by 12, and paints of all kinds dry and ground in oil, copal varnish, Irish and American glue, paint brushes, boiled and raw linseed oil, together with many other articles too tedious to enumerate.
April 27.
2aw6w

CORK, Feb. 23.
The enormous price of provisions, and particularly potatoes, added to the general stagnation of trade, have reduced the poor to a state of distress and want hitherto unprecedented. It is an unfortunate and literal truth, that several are daily perishing in the streets, through misery and want of sustenance. Within these few days, two large woollen factories in this neighbourhood have been obliged to discharge above 150 workmen, nor can those handicrafts and mechanics who remain in employ, with the utmost exertion of diligent labor, earn a sufficiency to purchase the necessaries of life for their families.
This morning the people collected again to the amount of about 1000; and after parading various streets to display their misery to the store holders repaired to the mayor's house, where general Myers, with many of the principal men in office were assembled. A deputation of twelve men entered, and in a submissive way, stated their grievance, declaring at the same time, that their intentions were in no respect riotous or disorderly. The general assured them, that every possible measure should be taken to have the public market supplied; and they withdrew in perfect order, relying on these expectations. The shops were not shut, nor was the smallest violence practised upon any individual.
The general situation of affairs in this kingdom, particularly in the south, of which the above is only a slight specimen, seems to call most loudly for the interference of the imperial legislature to which the unhappy people of the sister isle are now naturally led to look for adequate protection and relief.
NORFOLK, April 22.
United States Ship President, at anchor in Elizabeth river, near the Borough.
I, THOMAS TRUXTON, Senior Officer of the Navy at present in this harbour, having heard with pain and regret of an unfortunate affray happening in my absence from hence to the seat of government, between sundry seamen said to be American seamen, and the seamen of the frigate Semillante, in the service of the French Republic, do hereby order and direct, (under pain of severe punishment in the case of failure) all officers and others acting under my command, to prevent and discountenance such outrages in future; and on the contrary to respect and treat with civility, kindness and hospitality, all officers, seamen, &c. of the French nation, and especially those who are within our ports and harbours, seeking and relying on our protection, in consequence of the re-establishment (by treaty) of a good understanding between our two nations.
THOMAS TRUXTON.
Norfolk, the 24th Germinal, year 9th. OSTER, Vice Commissary for Commercial Relation, of the French Republic, in Virginia.
To Commodore Thomas Truxtun, on board the U. S. Frigate President.
SIR,
I have received with the obliging letter, you did me the honor to write me yesterday, the copy of the order, which you have thought proper to make public, since your return, in order to prevent in future, any quarrels between the seamen of our respective nations.
By the means of the wise precaution on your part, and those for the same purpose which I have taken, in conjunction with Captain Montelan, commanding the French Republican frigate L'Semillante, at anchor in this port, I hope, with you, Sir, that the scenes which have passed will not be renewed.
Receive, Commodore, with my sincere thanks, the homage of my respect.
OSTER.
NOTICE.
THE President and Trustees of Charlotte Hall School in St. Mary's County, Maryland, will proceed to the appointment of a Vice Principal in said School, on Monday the 11th of May next: the salary attached to the above appointment is two hundred and fifty pounds per annum. The persons applying for the said appointment, must be qualified to teach the Latin and Greek grammatically, and the French language—They must also produce satisfactory testimonials of their moral character.
Signed by Order,
NEALE H. SHAW, Reg.
N. B. The next quarterly meeting of the Trustees will be held on the 11th of May—when it is hoped and expected that the Trustees will generally attend.
122W.
N. H. S. Reg.
Coal Springs, April 24, 1801.
FOR THE NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER.
No. III.
THE public body, in which Mr. Gallatin first appeared, was, it is believed, the convention that on the part of Pennsylvania ratified the Federal Constitution. The writer of these remarks does not affirm this as an undoubted fact; but he is certain that either in this body, or in that which formed the present constitution of Pennsylvania, which is modelled on the Federal Constitution, Mr. Gallatin made his first public appearance. In the public deliberations of this body he took no part. It would seem that his modesty repressed an exhibition of his talents in this way. But it is well recollected that his opinions were respected and his information courted.
The next year Mr. Gallatin was chosen a member of the House of Representatives of Pennsylvania, in which body he continued to hold a seat for several years.
At this period the finances of that state were in a deplorable situation. A temporising and timid spirit had suffered her debts to accumulate until they had become burdensome to the people. Large outstanding arrearages of taxes existed, which, owing to a remiss administration, were altogether unproductive.
Mr. Gallatin early applied his mind to this subject. He soon discovered that the resources of the state were great and fully commensurate to all her demands; but he also discovered that to avail herself of these resources, it was absolutely necessary to probe the existing state of the financial operations of the government, and by a plain disclosure of facts to restore that confidence in the public agents which had been greatly impaired.
In the enquiry made, which was pursued with the most laborious assiduity, he discovered in the accounts of the comptroller, who had almost the absolute command of the finances, some gross defalcations. The comptroller held the same general political tenets with Mr. Gallatin; yet Mr. Gallatin unswayed by the dangerous prejudices of a common mind, vigorously instituted a legislative scrutiny into the conduct of that officer, which terminated in his impeachment before the Senate. On this impeachment, Mr. Gallatin was the leading manager.
In the conduct of this enquiry and impeachment Mr. Gallatin pursued the right line of political integrity, uninfluenced by personal or party feeling. Many of his party friends were astonished at beholding him co-operating with all his zeal with men to whom hitherto he had been opposed.
Though a majority of the senate concurred in the articles of impeachment, the comptroller was acquitted, as that majority did not amount to two thirds which the constitution required to produce a conviction. But the exposure of facts that was made, drove the comptroller from office; and a new organization, in which by the erection of a new office a check was created, was established. Economy and regularity now guided the fiscal acts of the government, and insured too, in a short time, the command of resources not only equal but much beyond its real wants.
During this period Mr. Gallatin powerfully co-operated in the establishment of the bank of Pennsylvania. Only one bank, of a small capital, then existed, in Philadelphia; but that bank was supported by a formidable interest, which considered the institution of another as subversive of its welfare. Hence an opposition was excited, that was conducted with great zeal and talent. Mr. Gallatin, at great length, and in frequent speeches, impressed the legislative body with the importance and necessity of a second bank. Without determining whether public banks were in themselves conducive to the real welfare of the country, he contended that if they were established, no one should enjoy a monopoly of power. A single bank in a large commercial town was calculated to be an instrument partial and oppressive. To overcome these evils it was essentially necessary to create another bank, which, not governed by the same influence with the first, would be a restraint upon its partialities and other abuses. These arguments had weight, and the bank of Pennsylvania obtained a charter.
What enhances the character of Mr. Gallatin, as a representative in the legislature of Pennsylvania, when we consider the great, the ascendant influence which in a short period he acquired in that body, is the different politics which he possessed from a large majority of it. The annals of legislation do not furnish a stronger evidence of the force of reason and information over prejudice and ignorance. It was then fashionable, as it has since continued to be, to brand some of our most virtuous citizens
with epithets the most reproachful. These were lavishly heaped upon Albert Gallatin. Men, particularly, who knew him not personally, and who lived remote from the seat of government, became the fittest instruments of prejudice and party virulence. They declared that Mr. Gallatin was a dangerous man—They then, not only allowed him talents, but considered those talents as an object of terror. Of this number was Mr. Hannum, who at that time held a leading influence over the politics of Chester county. He avowed, in language the most intemperate, his hatred to Mr. Gallatin, and offered himself as a candidate for a seat in the legislature for the express purpose of bearing down this terrible colossus. Mr. Hannum obtained a seat; and the early expressions of his sentiments betrayed against Mr. Gallatin an unrestrained rancour. He frequently rose to infult him. He declared without reserve that he ought to be silenced, even by menaces, and made it known that he would suffer no opportunity to escape of treating him with severity.
Hitherto the deportment of Mr. Gallatin had been invariably cool, dignified and conciliating. He had never been known to stoop to personal calumny. For abuse he had returned reason, for passion, truth. True to his original character, the threats of Mr. Hannum, to appearance, made no impression upon him. He treated him as he had treated all men before, by endeavouring to enlighten their understandings and dissipate their prejudices. A surprising change soon ensued. The tone of Mr. Hannum gradually subsided; he ceased to calumniate Mr. Gallatin; he sometimes even voted with him; and finally, in a few short months he broke the fetters of prejudice by which he had been enslaved, acknowledged that he had been deceived, allowed that Mr. Gallatin was a great and a good man; and as if this were not a sufficient atonement for past error, actively and successfully espoused his election as senator of the United States; and it was eminently owing to his exertions that Mr. Gallatin was chosen to that place by a legislature decidedly federal.
This relation scarcely needs a comment. Can there be a higher evidence of virtue and talent? When our enemies not only applaud, but imitate our conduct, when they throw aside their enmities and embrace us as friends, when they open the avenues to our preferment and power, can we doubt their sincerity or discrimination?
Thus, after efficiently co-operating with others, in placing the finances of Pennsylvania upon a footing which has ever since rendered them flourishing; which has enabled that state with little or no taxation to pay her debts, to aid and invigorate internal improvement, by opening new roads and repairing old ones, Mr. Gallatin found himself transferred to a higher sphere. In the Senate of the United States a wider field was opened. Nor was it long before his penetration and talent, even in this body, became respected and feared. He entered it against the full tide of political prejudice; for federalism had then in that body an almost undisputed sway; yet in a few weeks, in a debate of great interest on executive measures, by the force of argument and information, he obtained the almost unanimous reversal of an act of great importance, which had been passed from misinformation. It was after this display of talent that the attempt was made, which proved successful, to exclude him from his seat, on the ground that he had not been a citizen long enough to qualify him to hold it. In the decision of the Senate on this point, the decision that took place was that of party; the federalists voting for, and the republicans against the exclusion.
During the period, to which the preceding remarks relate, the Federal Constitution was formed and ratified. Was Mr. Gallatin among its opponents? It has never been said that he was. Is then no credit to be given to him on this account? While the leading characters of the western district of Pennsylvania, in which he resided, were its zealous opponents; for which opposition they have received the full weight of federal censure; is no credit due to him for at least a neutral line of conduct which could only have been followed from the dictates of an independent mind?
Thus far we discover no blemish in the public character of Mr. Gallatin. We contemplate him in the performance of useful acts; we observe him enriching the treasury of the state wherein he lived, and directing its wealth to beneficent purposes; we observe him filling with dignity the highest station in the legislation of the country. Party dissatisfaction, whatever may have been her murmurs at the moment, casts at present no reproaches upon him in relation to this period of his life. Her silence is conclusive, and irrefragably establishes his exemption from merited censure.
LOTS.
IN different eligible situations in the City for Sale or Lease on ground rent.—Likewise, 100 Casks inspected Rhode Island LIME.
A number of Quarter and half and Casks of MADEIRA WINE, of a superior quality, by JOHN SICKNEY At his building opposite Rhodes Tavern President's Square. Washington, March 2, 1801. eod tf
FOR SALE, THREE BRICK HOUSES, Opposite the Navy Office—They are three stories high, with two parlours on the first floor. Immediate possession may be given. Enquire of WILLIAM DYER, either at the above-mentioned buildings, or at his house on I street, north of the new War Office. April 17, 1801. tf.
Nail Manufactory,
ALL kinds of Cut Nails for Sale by Wholesale and Retail at the Factory on F Street, and at the Hardware Store of the Subscriber, where persons building and all others wishing to purchase may be supplied with any quantity at the most reasonable rates. JOHN JACK Washington Feb. 4, 1801.
FOR SALE OR RENT,
Two elegant brick Houses, 40 by 20 feet, SITUATE on King and Columbia streets Alexandria, as well calculated for the grocery and flour business as any in the city; also two large stores adjoining the above houses, 25 feet front, by 36 feet deep, and I will likewise lease or sell, 7 or 8 valuable lots on King and Patrick-streets, subject to a small ground rent. Possession will be given of one of the houses immediately, and the other in 30 days. Any person wishing to purchase, one fourth of the purchase money will be required in hand, one fourth in 3 months, and the balance in 12 months, by paying interest and giving a security on the property.
I will also sell or rent,
Two new two-story Brick Houses, 25 feet front by 36 feet deep, situated near Pennsylvania Avenue, on the corner of E and B streets, between the great Hotel and the President's house. The situation for private families or stores, is equal, if not preferable, it being at present in the most populous part of the City. Possession will be given of one of the houses on the first day of next May, and the other on the first day of June following.—One fourth part of the purchase money will be required in hand, one fourth in 90 days, and the balance will be taken either in cash, goods, dry goods or groceries. The negroes at their valuation, and the goods at the wholesale prices.
I will also sell,
Six or eight thousand acres valuable Kentucky land. The terms of payment will be required as a above mentioned.
The subscriber intends carrying on the brick-laying and plastering business extensively, and will keep a constant supply of bricks and lime for sale, he will also undertake to furnish all materials to any person disposed to build in the City, on the most reasonable terms for cash. Application to be made to Francis Peyton, Esq. for the property in Alexandria, or to N. VOSS.
City of Washington, April 3, 1801. 2M A PREMIUM of 100 dollars will be given to any Person who will exhibit the best Plan of BARRACKS, for the Marines, sufficient to hold 500 men, with their officers, and of a House for the commandant. The Plan must be so drawn as to be capable of being hereafter enlarged, and must be so arranged as to suit the dimensions of the Lot, which has an East and West front of 615 feet, and a North and South front of 250—The plans must be all lodged at the Navy Office before 1st May. April 3, 1801.
FOR SALE,
A good and convenient Lot and House, BEAUTIFULLY situated on the South-East corner of Square No 973, in the vicinity of the Navy-Yard, commanding an extensive view of some miles down the Potomack. The house is two story high, fronting 42 feet on 11th street east, and 42 feet on South G street, adjoining the south front is a commodious kitchen, with oven and other conveniences. A large frame stable, carriage-house, with a hay loft 50 feet by 25, and a pump of fine water near the back of the kitchen. The lot will extend ninety one feet on 11th Street East, and 139 on South G street. The purchaser may have a preference of the south half of the Square.
Also, a number of LOTS, eligibly situated in various parts of the City. The titles to the whole are indispitably free of every incumbrance, the terms moderate and convenient, which may be known by application to the subscriber, occupying the premises first mentioned, possession of which may be given within 30 days after purchase.
THOMAS TINGEY,
Who will also sell one whole and four half pipes, London particular Madeira wine, of excellent quality. Washington, 10, April 1801. tf.

TRENTON, April 21.
We were yesterday favoured by the politeness of a gentleman of this city, with the perusal of a letter from an officer on board the U. S. frigate George Washington...
Extract of a letter from an officer on board the United States frigate George Washington, to a gentleman in Trenton, dated at sea, March 1, 1801.
"We yesterday failed from Gibraltar with a favourable wind in company with 4 American vessels and at sun set took a last happy view of the shores of Europe & Africa...
From Constantinople we bro't the secretary of the gen. of marine, bearing the conditions of peace from the Grand Seignior to the Dey, and two other officers missionaries to the Beys of Tunis, and Tripoli...
and took our departure on the 31st Jan. and on the 5th Feb. we arrived at Alhucemas in Spain. Here we landed our passengers, and on the 8th failed for Gibraltar...
AN ACT,
Making appropriations for the Military Establishment of the United States, for the year one thousand eight hundred and one.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That for defraying the expences of the military establishment of the United States...
For the pay of the army of the United States, four hundred and eighty thousand three hundred and ninety six dollars.
For the subsistence of the army, three hundred six thousand three hundred and ninety five dollars.
For forage, the sum of seven thousand six hundred and eighty dollars.
For horses to replace those which may die, or become unfit for service, the sum of five thousand dollars.
For cloathing, the sum of one hundred and forty one thousand five hundred and thirty dollars.
For bounties and premiums, the sum of forty two thousand dollars.
For the hospital department, the sum of twenty thousand dollars.
For the ordnance department, the sum of one hundred thousand dollars.
For the quarter-master's department, the sum of one hundred and sixty five thousand dollars.
For paying annuities to the following nations of Indians, in pursuance of treaties: To the Six nations, Cherokees, Chickasaws and Creeks, the sum of fifteen thousand dollars.
And for presents to the Choctaws, two thousand dollars.
For defraying the expence of the transportation of annuities to the Indian tribes, ten thousand dollars.
For promoting civilization among the Indian tribes, and pay of temporary agents, and rations to Indians at the different military posts, the sum of forty five thousand dollars.
For the defensive protection of the frontiers of the United States, including the erection and repairs of forts and fortifications, the sum of thirty thousand dollars.
For loss of stores, allowances to officers on being ordered to distant commands, and for special purposes; advertising and apprehending deserters, printing, purchasing maps, and other contingencies, the sum of thirty thousand dollars.
For the annual allowance to the invalids of the United States for their pensions, from the fifth of March, one thousand eight hundred and one, to the fourth of March, one thousand eight hundred and two, the sum of ninety three thousand dollars.
For the fortification of ports and harbours within the United States, the sum of two hundred thousand dollars.
For the fabrication of cannon and small arms, and the purchase of ammunition, being the balance of appropriations unexpended, which have been carried to the surplus fund, four hundred thousand dollars.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the foregoing appropriations shall be paid
out of any monies in the treasury of the United States, not otherwise appropriated.
THEODORE SEDGWICK, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JAMES HILLHOUSE, President of the Senate, pro tempore. Approved, March 2d, A. D. 1801. JOHN ADAMS, President of the United States.
CITY OF WASHINGTON.
Commissioners Office, 5th March, 1801.
BY virtue of an act of Assembly of the state of Maryland, entitled "a further supplement to the act concerning the Territory of Columbia and City of Washington" the commissioners will expose to sale on Tuesday the 12th day of May next...
The public sale to commence at Ten o'clock, in the forenoon, and to continue on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays in each week, till all are sold. The purchasers will be required to give notes...
Wm. THORNTON, } Commissioners. Alexr. WHITE. }
CHEAP LUMBER.
FOR SALE,
By the Subscriber, on reasonable terms, either by large or small quantities, at his Lumber Yards, the north end of Lamberton, and at the old Sturgeon Pond, above Richards's wharf.
A QUANTITY OF ASSORTED LUMBER, viz.
One and 1-4 inch, 1-8, and 1 do. Yellow pine heart boards—1 inch pannel, 1 1-4 do. for floors, 1 do. common, white pine do—2 do. 7 1-4 and 2 1-2 do planks, 1 do. 1-8, and 2-8 do. boards, black walnut—2 do. plank, 3 do. 1 2 do. pannel boards, bedstead sets, poplar...
The subscriber intends, establishing a Lumber Yard at the Federal City of Washington, which he will keep regularly supplied as above—Any quantities may be agreed for by contract, deliverable, as the purchaser may wish...
Gentlemen who are or may be building—as well as carpenters who may be under or may enter into contracts to build and furnish the materials, will find it well worth their attention to apply as above—Applications may be made by letter (post paid) or otherwise, to the subscriber...
Also for Sale or to Let,
A large commodious Dwelling House, with out buildings complete, and from three to seven acres of land—Two small do. with lots thereto—Also, a small Store near the river—All laying in the village of Lamberton
NATHAN COMBS.
N. B. A Screw Jack to let, that raises from 10 to 40 tons by hand—a constant supply of plaster and Smith's Virginia coal. Lamberton, New Jersey, (on Del.)
January 12, 1801.
IN CHANCERY,
April 2d, 1801.
EDWARD MOORE, an insolvent debtor of Calvert county, makes application as a trader, by petition, to the Chancellor in writing, praying the benefit of "an act for the relief of sundry insolvent debtors," there is annexed to his petition a schedule of his property...
It is thereupon adjudged and ordered, that he appear before the Chancellor, in the Chancery office, on the third day of November next, for the purpose of taking the oath by the said act required...
Test, SAMUEL H. HOWARD, Reg. Cur. Can.