Gazette of the United States, & Philadelphia daily advertiser. (Philadelphia [Pa.]), 1796-12-16 00:00:00

Gazette of the United States, & Philadelphia Daily Advertiser.
NUMBER 1333.]
FRIDAY EVENING, DECEMBER 16, 1796.
[VOLUME X.]
For Boston, The brig NEPTUNE, JAMES TOWN, Master, Lying at Wilcock's wharf, will sail with all convenient speed...
For Sale by Public Auction, At the Coffee-House, on Saturday the 17th inst. at 6 o'clock, in the evening. THE SNOW WILLIAM, SAMUEL RINKER, MASTER.
For Sale, The Ship ADELAIDE, Of New York. Lying at the subscriber's wharf-burthen 200 tons, she is a stout well built vessel...
For Sligo and Killybegs, The American Ship NANCY, Cuthbert Riggs, master. Will sail with all convenient speed. For freight or passage apply to William Bell;
FOR SALE, THE SHIP MARY, SAMUEL PARKER, MASTER, Two hundred tons burthen. Apply to JOSEPH ANTHONY, & Co.
For Charter, The Ship JOHN BULKELY, AYRES STOCKLEY, Master. An excellent live-oak and cedar built ship, of about 3000 barrels burthen.
For Sale, or Charter, The Ship DIANA, SAMUEL PYLE, Master, Burthen 205 49-95 tons register, built in Philadelphia in the year 1792...
For Sale, By Jehu Hollingsworth, Esq. Co. 25 hds. West-India Rum, 3d and 4th proof, 5 Barrels best Indigo, and a few thousand bushels of Turk's Island salt.
Bank of North America. THE STOCKHOLDERS are hereby notified that an election for twelve Directors for the ensuing year will be held at the Bank on Monday the 9th of January at ten o'clock.
Just Arrived, In the ship Dispatch, Captain Morton, from Havre de-Grace, and for sale by Isaac Snowden, jun. No. 141, SOUTH SECOND STREET.
Elegant Brussels & Turkey Carpeting, For sale by George Dobson, No. 25, South Third-Street. December 15.
Women's Cloaks. GEORGE DOBSON, No. 25, South Third-Street. Has just received, per Eagle, Capt. Foidick, via London, an assortment of Scarlet, Dull, Purple and Pearl Cloaks...
Bank of Pennsylvania. 15th Dec. 1796. The Stockholders are requested to meet At the Bank on Thursday, the twenty-ninth instant, at 10 o'clock in the morning.
A number of the Creditors of the late House of Blair McClenachan and P. Moore, and of B. McClenachan, wishing to have the opinion of the Creditors generally on the measures necessary to be pursued under present circumstances propose, that a meeting shall be held on Saturday next, at 12 o'clock, at the City Tavern...
For Sale, By the Subscribers-In PENN-STREET, 65 Pipes Excellent Madeira Wine, Imported by the Eagle. WILLINGS & FRANCIS. Nov. 30
Holland Gin, in pipes. Choice St. Croix Sugar and Rum, Martinique Molasses, in hogsheads, Choice old Lisbon Wine, in pipes and quarter-casks, London Particular & London Market Madeira Wine, in pipes, half-pipes and quarter-casks...
WILLIAM SHEAFF, No. 168, HIGH-STREET. Has received by the late arrivals, A Well Selected Assortment of Silk Mercery, Linen Drapery, and Haberdashery Goods, Which he will sell, wholesale and retail, on the very lowest terms;
By J. WARDER, PARKER & Co. An Invoice of Cordage, Consisting of different sizes, from 12 inch cables down to rope of 2 inches, of different lengths: Imported in the ship Swift, from Hull, and entitled to drawback. Sept. 27.
FASHIONABLE WAISTCOATING. GEORGE DOBSON, No. 25, SOUTH THIRD-STREET, Has received per the Diana, from London, Clouded and striped Spanish Swandown, Clouded Ermines and Molekins, Striped do. and do. Figured Manillas, Scarlet figured Ermines, Printed Florinets, Do. Cafines and Cassimere, Superfine printed Quiltings, newest patterns.
A large and general assortment of Dry Goods, Suitable to the present and approaching season. November 5. Cheap French China. THE subscribers finding it impossible to supply their store with any more China from France, the prices being too immoderate in the manufactures, give notice that they will sell at prime cost the remaining stock on hand, consisting of Deffert Sets, Tea-Table Sets, Separate Cups and Saucers, Groups and Figures, Alabaster Vases, Looking Glasses, in gilt frames, Besides India Japan'd Toilet Decks, Chairs, Tables and Quadrille Boxes. PASQUIER & Co. No. 91, South Second-Street. December 4th.
Davis's Law Book Store, No. 313, HIGH-STREET. GEORGE DAVIS announces to his professional friends, and the Gentlemen of the Law, generally, through the Union, that his late importation of BOOKS is now arranged, and ready for Sale, from a single volume to an entire library, without any advance upon his former exceedingly low prices, which for several years past have in no distinguished a manner recommended them to notice.
On Wednesday, the 28th inst. At 6 o'clock in the evening will be sold at Public-Vendues, (if not before disposed of at private sale) at the City-Tavern, All that capital mansion-house, stables, out-houses, &c. and three contiguous tracts of land situate on the West-side of Schuylkill in the township of Blockley and county of Philadelphia, generally known by the name of Lansdown, containing 109 acres 161 perches more or less and a messuage plantation and tract of land in Blockley township aforesaid adjoining Lansdown, containing 64 acres one perch.
FOR SALE, At Whitefides' Tea Ware-House, No. 99, North Second Street. Imperial Hysan, Young Hysan, Fresh Teas, Hysan Skin, Sonchong, Bohea. Dec. 9.
New-England Rum, Salmon, Beef, Chocolate, Rice, Boston mould and dipt Candles, a few quarter-casks of Sherry Wine, and a few barrels of Cyder-for sale by Ezekiel Hall, No. 42, North Water-Street. December 14th, 1796.
Just Landing, At South street-wharf, from on board the ship Sedgley, Captain Hodge, from St. Petersburg, The following Goods: Russia Sail Duck, first quality, Do. Sheeting, Do. Diaper, Do. Huckaback, Do. Craft, Do. Mould Candles, 4, 5 and 6, to the lb. of the English size, Do. White Candle Tallow, Do. White Soap in small boxes, Do. Cordage of fine yarn, Ravens Duck, Minglas, sit and lead fort. Horse Hair uncurled, Russia Bar Iron, I.O. Hoop Iron, Do. Nail Rods, 10 Tons Oakum and Tank. St. Petersburg Clean Hemp. For Sale by Philips, Cramond, & Co. October 12.
WM. HOLDERNESSE, No. 76, HIGH-STREET, Has received by the late arrivals, A Well Selected Assortment of Silk Mercery, Linen Drapery, and Haberdashery Goods, Which he will sell, wholesale and retail, on the very lowest terms; Amongst which are Some elegant 4-4 and 7-8 Chintzes and Cottons, new patterns, Dito Furniture ditto, Dito Dimity, Tamboured, Book, and Ikonet Muslins, Dito in Gold and Silver, Dito Neckcloths, very fine, Mantuas of the first quality, Silk and Cotton Hosiery, Umbrellas of the first quality, assorted Irish Linens, very fine, and Table Linens, Marfeilles and Cotton Counterpanes, Rose Blankets assorted-&c. &c. October 26.
RAISINS. A few Casks and Boxes of Excellent Fresh RAISINS, just received, and for sale by Joseph Anthony & Co. Also a new 11-12 inch CABLE, 120 fathoms long. December 5. Best Boston & Nova-Scotia Mackerel, Excellent Halifax Salmon in bbls. 47 bbls. prime Coffee, Best Boston Beef, Codfish in hds. Spermaceti Candles, Spermaceti, and Northern Mould and dipt, tallow candles, of a superior quality. A few boxes excellent brown soap, 6 Bales of Corks, 40 Pipes excellent Lisbon Wine, A few Sacks of Feathers, A few Bales India Muslins. FOR SALE BY JOSEPH ANTHONY, & Co. October 31.
TO BE SOLD, A PLANTATION, in the town of Woodbury, county of Gloucester, and state of New-Jersey, containing about one hundred and fifty acres; a suitable proportion of which is woodland and improved meadow. A great part of the arable land is in a high state of cultivation, and very natural to the production of Red Clover. On said plantation there is a genteel two-story brick house, with four rooms on a floor, and a good dry cellar under the whole; together with a barn, corn-cribs and carriage house. The garden is large, and contains a good collection of the best kinds of grafted and inoculated fruit trees; the orchard consists of about three hundred grafted apple trees. Any person inclined to purchase said premises, may be informed of the terms by applying to ANDREW HUNTER. July 29
WANTED, As Cook, in a private family, A YOUNG WOMAN who can produce good recommendations of an unexceptionable character. Enquire of the Printer. November 17.
MRS. GRATTAN Respectfully informs the Ladies and Gentlemen of the City, that the first LADIES' CONCERT Will be on Tuesday next, at the Assembly-Room. Act I. Overture, Song, Mrs. Grattan, "Angels ever bright," Handel. Concerto Piano-Forte, Mrs. Grattan, Krumpoltz. Italian Ballad, Harp, Mrs. Grattan, Milico. Miscellaneous Quartette. Act II. Harp Lesson, Mrs. Grattan, Cardon. Song, "Ah se perdo," Mrs. Grattan, Sacchini. Sonata Piano-Forte, Mr. Reinagle, Pleyel. Primrose, ballad, Mrs. Grattan, Webbe. Overture, Abel. *To begin precisely at 7 o'clock. Mrs. Grattan begs leave to inform the Ladies and Gentlemen, that the subscription-book is at her house No. 39, North Sixth-Street, for the reception of those names who wish to honor her with their commands. A subscription for eight nights 16 dollars, including a Gentleman and Lady's ticket, both transferable. Half subscriptions 8 dollars, including one ticket. Single ticket 2 dollars. Mrs. Grattan takes the liberty of requesting the subscribers to send for their tickets any day after Thursday, the 15th of December, at No. 39, North Sixth-Street. December 15.
Hibernian Society. A stated meeting of the Hibernian Society, will be held at Mr. M'Shane's Tavern, Third-Street, on Saturday the 17th inst. at 7 o'clock in the evening. Supper will be on the table at half after nine. Dec. 12. MATHEW CAREY, Sec'y. Imported from London & Liverpool, EARTHEN WARE, in crates and hogsheads, well assorted. Wine Bottles in hampers, Window Glass of all sizes, Two cases of Stationery, One chest of yellow Jemuits Bark, Two cases of Roll Arnots, A small consignment of Rose Blankets, Flannels, Baizes, Broad-cloths, Coatings, Plains, &c. Paints of various colors. Baskett salt in hogsheads. Also on hand, Madeira wine, very old, in pipes, hogsheads and quarter casks, Holland gin in pipes, first quality, Anchors of different sizes, A few trunks of ladies French shoes assorted, Silk nankeen, &c. Likewise an assortment of Dutch goods, consisting of Osnabergs, ticklenbergs, bed-ticks, stripes, checks, Morris linen, platillas, ravens duck, Britannias, &c. And for sale by the package only by Thomas & John Ketland. Walnut-street Wharf. Nov. 15.
MR. FENNELL Respectfully submits to the public patronage his intention of delivering, during the ensuing winter, A COURSE OF READINGS AND RECITATIONS, Moral, Critical, and Entertaining; Consisting chiefly of detached pieces, selected from the most admired authors, in prose and verse: Arranged in such a manner as to exhibit a striking display of the human passions, and the gradual influence of vices on the mind contrasted with that of their opposite virtues, in affecting the happiness of man and the welfare of nations. The readings will be occasionally interspersed with observations on the most celebrated authors, And the ART OF SPEAKING. The whole intended as a combined system of moral, critical, historical, and oratorical instruction, calculated to form the patriot and the man, and lay a foundation for the science of moral and political government. The course will consist of thirty readings. Each reading will be delivered in the morning and evening of the same day. The days of reading will be Tuesdays & Thursdays. The morning readings will commence at 10 o'clock, and the evening at 7. None but subscribers will be admitted to the morning readings. The evening readings will be public, to which also subscriptions will be received. Subscription to the mornings 8 dollars. Subscription to the evening readings 10 dollars. Occasional admission tickets to the evening readings half a dollar. Subscriptions are received by Mr. Zachariah Poulson, jun. at the Library, to whom the Ladies and Gentlemen who may be inclined to honor the undertaking with their patronage, are respectfully requested to send their names. Dec. 12.
For Sale, A capital stand for business-That well known tavern, the Ewe and Lambs, North Front Street, No. 333, in the Northern Liberties; a brick house containing nine fire-places, and ten rooms well finished; good stables and chair-house, with a frame-house on Water Street; the building stands on four lots, seventeen feet front each, making a front on front-street, thirty-four feet, and nearly the same on Water-street, and is one hundred and forty feet deep from front to back, subject to £8. 10s. each lot per annum, ground rent, this property is near the hay-cales, and public ducks, easy communication with the Delaware waters and advantageously situated for business of various kinds. The above premises are now rented until December next at £175 per annum.-Enquire of the Printer. Dec. 12.
For Sale, By George Deschamps, No. 91, NORTH SIXTH-STREET, Nova-Scotia Prime Salmon, in barrels and half barrels, Dito Herring and Mackerel, Smoked Herring in barrels and kegs, Dito Salmon, by the dozen or single one, Dry Codfish, from one to fifty kentals, Fine and coarse Salt, Nova-Scotia and French Plaster of Paris, in the stone and ground, for manure and stucco-work. December 1.

NEW THEATRE.
WIGNELL AND REINAGLE.
Ever solicitous to vary and improve the Entertainment of the New Theatre, and evince their gratitude for the patronage they have received, respectfully inform the Public, that they have, in addition to their present Establishment, engaged a FRENCH COMPANY of COMEDIANS, who will make their first appearance in this City, to-morrow evening, in two favorite Musical Pieces—the particulars will be advertised in the Bills for the day—previous to which will be performed the comedy of NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOURS. Dec. 16
On FRIDAY EVENING, December 16, Will be presented.
A COMEDY, in four acts, called The Child of Nature.
From the French of Madam Genlis, by the author of Every one has his Fault.
Marquis of Almanza, Mr. Wignell. Count Valantia, Mr. Moreton. Duke Mureta, Mr. Warren. Seville, Mr. Warrell. Grenada, Mr. Warrell, jun. 1st Peasant, Mr. Cooper. 2d Peasant, Mr. Mitchell. Marchioness Merida, Mrs. Morris. Amandia, Mrs. Merry.
End of the Comedy, a new Pantomime Ballet Dance, (composed by Mr. Byrne) called
DERMOT and KATHLEEN.
Taken from the favorite opera of the Poor Soldier, and performed with universal applause, upwards of 400 nights, at Covent-Garden Theatre.
Patrick, Mr. Warrell, jun. Darby, Mr. Bliss. Father Luke, Sig. Doctor. Mother Kathleen, Mr. Francis. Norah, Miss Milbourne.
And the parts of Dermot and Kathleen, By Mr. and Mrs. Byrne, being their second appearance in America.
To which will be added, a FARCE, never performed here, called
Animal Magnetism.
Marquis de Laney, Mr. Moreton. La Fleur, Mr. Harwood. Doctor, Mr. Francis. Picard, Mr. McDonald. Francois, Mr. Warrell, jun. Jeffery, Mr. Bliss.
Constance, Mrs. Harvey. Lisette, Mrs. Francis. Box, One Dollar twenty-five cents. Pit one Dollar. And Gallery, half a dollar.
Tickets to be had at H. & P. Rice's Book-Store, No. 50 High-street, and at the Office adjoining the Theatre.
The Doors of the Theatre will open at 5, and the Curtain rise precisely at 6 o'clock. VIVAT RES PUBLICA!
For the benefit of the sufferers By the late fire at Savannah.
The Citizens of Philadelphia are informed, that On MONDAY, the 19th instant, The Elephant will be exhibited, And the whole receipts of the day, together with a sum of twenty-five dollars from the owner, will be deposited with the Mayor, to relieve the suffering Citizens of Savannah. The owner will attend at the place himself. Admittance one quarter of a dollar. Generosity is requested. December 16.
LOST.
On Wednesday afternoon, somewhere in Market-street, A Red Morocco POCKET-BOOK, Containing, amongst other papers, a draft of M. M. Hayes on Joseph Anthony & Co. at twenty days, for 400 dollars. Whoever has found the same, and will deliver it at No. 5, Chestnut-street, shall receive FIVE DOLLARS reward. December 16.
FOR SALE.
Seven elegant Sites for buildings, Opposite the State-House Garden and Congress-Hall; each Lot being 25 feet front on Sixth-street, and 120 feet deep to a 14 feet Court, agreeable to a plan which may be seen at the Coffee-House or at the office of Abraham Shoemaker, No. 124, So. Fourth-street, where the terms will be made known. December 16.
Dancing.
MR. FRANCIS of the New Theatre, in conjunction with Mr. BYRN, late Ballet-master, and principal dancer of Covent-Garden Theatre, London, now of the New Theatre in this city, opened their Academy at Mr. Oellers Hotel, on Tuesday, December 13, where they propose to teach, in the most new and approved methods, Dancing in its various useful and ornamental branches. Mr. Byrn's recent attention to the dances of London and Paris will enable him to complete this branch of education in his scholars in the most finished style. Favorite Scotch reels will also engage their particular attention.
The days of teaching for their young pupils are Thursdays and Saturdays, from three o'clock in the afternoon till five—and on Tuesdays & Thursdays, from six till nine, for those of a more advanced age.
For further particulars enquire of Messrs. Francis and Byrn, No. 70, north Eighth-street.
Private tuition as usual. Philadelphia, December 16, 1796.
A Genteel House.
FOR SALE, a new, convenient, three-story HOUSE, situated in Fifth, near Spruce-street. Possession may be had in two months, when it will be finished in a neat modern style. For terms apply at No. 109, Spruce-street, or 109, So. Water-street. December 8.
A Stated Meeting of
The American Philosophical Society, WILL be held at their Hall next Friday evening at 6 o'clock; when the annual Magellanic Premium is to be awarded.
The Society are also desired to meet at their Hall, on Saturday next at 11 o'clock, in the forenoon, to proceed from thence to the Presbyterian Church, in High-street, where an eulogium to the memory of their late President, Dr. DAVID RITTENHOUSE, will be pronounced before them at 12 o'clock. Dec. 14.
Old London particular Madeira Wine, Landing from on board the barque Eagle, Capt. Bates, and for sale by ROBERT ANDREWS, No. 86, South Wharves. November 29.
From the (New-York) Minerva.
THE ANSWER.
THE French republic have, at various times during the present war, complained of certain principles and decisions of the American government, as being violations of its neutrality, or infractions of the treaty made with France in the year 1778. These complaints were principally made in the year 1793, and explanations, which, till now, were deemed satisfactory, were made by Mr. Jefferson's correspondence, in August of that year. They are now not only renewed with great exaggeration, but the French government have directed, that it should be done in the tone of reproach, instead of the language of friendship. The apparent intention of this menacing tone at this particular time, is, to influence timid minds to vote agreeably to their wishes in the election of President and Vice-President, and probably with this view, the memorial was published in the newspapers. This is certainly a practice that must not be permitted. If one foreign minister is permitted to publish what he pleases to the people, in the name of his government, every other foreign minister must be endowed with the same right. What then will be our situation on the election of a President and Vice President, when the government is insulted, the persons who administer it traduced, and the electors menaced by public addresses from these intriguing agents? Poland, that was once a respectable and powerful nation, but is now a nation no longer, is a melancholy example of the danger of foreign influence in the election of a chief magistrate. Eleven millions of people have lost their independence from that cause alone.
What would have been the conduct of the French Directory, if the American Minister had published an elaborate, and inflammatory address to the people of France against the government, reproaching the conduct of those in power, and extolling that of the party opposed to them; they would have done as the Parliament of England did in 1727, when the Emperor's resident presented an insolent memorial to the king, and published it next day in the newspapers. "All parties concurred in expressing the highest indignation and resentment at the affront offered to the government by the memorial delivered by Monsieur Palm, and more particularly at this audacious manner of appealing from the government to the people under the pretext of applying for reparation and redress of supposed injuries." In consequence of an address from both houses Monsieur Palm was ordered to quit England immediately. And is it not necessary that we should adopt some remedy adequate to this evil, to avoid these serious consequences which may otherwise be apprehended from it?
The conduct of the American government to preserve its neutrality, has been repeatedly justified by arguments drawn from the laws of nations; and in the application of its principles, they have gone as far, in every instance, and in one particular instance, farther, in favour of France, than the strict rule of neutrality would justify. It would, therefore, answer no valuable purpose, to state the same principles, and deduce the same consequences, in order to justify ourselves on the same ground that we have already done; but as the reproaches of the French republic are founded on an idea, that our construction and application of the law of nations, is erroneous, partial and inimical; it may be worth while to examine, whether we cannot justify ourselves by the example of the French nation itself. I presume a better rule of justification against any charge, cannot be required, than the conduct of those who have made it, in like cases.
I propose, therefore, to compare the decisions of the American government, in the several points wherein they have been complained of in Mr. Adet's memorial, with the laws of France on the same points.
It is asserted, that the American government has violated the 17th article of the treaty of 1778, by arresting French privateers and their prizes; and that it has exercised shocking persecutions towards them.
It will be found, on an accurate enquiry, that all the prizes brought in under French commissions, that have been restored, have been found to be in one or the other of the following descriptions:
1. Those captured within a marine league of the shores of the United States.
2. Where the capturing vessel was owned, and also principally manned, by American citizens.
3. Where the capturing vessel was armed in our ports.
As to the jurisdiction exercised by the United States over the sea contiguous to its shores, all nations claim and exercise such a jurisdiction, and all writers admit this claim to be well founded; and they have differed in opinion only as to the distance to which it may extend. Let us see whether France has claimed a greater or less extent of dominion over the sea, than the United States. Valin, the king's advocate at Rochelle, in his new commentary on the marine laws of France, published first in 1761, and again by approbation in 1776, after mentioning the opinions of many different writers on public law on this subject, says, "As far as the distance of two leagues, the sea is the dominion of the sovereign of the neighbouring coast; and that, whether there be foundings there or not. It is proper to observe this method, in favour of states whose coasts are so high, that there are no soundings close to the shore; but this does not prevent the extension of the dominion of the sea, as well in respect to jurisdiction as the fisheries to a greater distance, by particular treaties, or the rule herein before mentioned, which extends dominion as far as there are soundings, or as far as the reach of a cannon shot—which is the rule at present universally acknowledged." The effect of this dominion, the same author says, "according to the principles of Puffendorf, which are incontestible, is, that every sovereign has a right to protect foreign commerce, in his dominions, as well as to secure them from insult, by preventing others from approaching nearer than to a certain distance." In extending our dominion over the sea to one league, we have not extended it so far, as the example of France, and the other powers of Europe, would have justified. They therefore can have no right to complain of our conduct in this respect.
Book 3. title 1.
The second description of cases, which has induced the American government to restore prizes claimed by the French, is, where our citizens have made a capture under a French commission.
The third article of the ordinances of the marine of France, which the commissions now given to French privateers require to be observed, [Valin, 2 vol. 235.] is as follows:
"We prohibit all our subjects from taking commissions from foreign kings, princes, or states, to arm vessels for war, and to cruise at sea under their colours, unless by our permission, on pain of being treated as pirates." The commentator says, these general and indefinite prohibitions have no exception. They extend to commissions taken from friends or allies, as well as neutrals, and those that are equivocal: and they were considered as necessary consequences of the laws of neutrality.
"If, says Valin, the commission of the foreign Prince be to cruise against his enemies who are our allies, or those with whom we intend to preserve neutrality, it would afford just ground of complaint on their part, and might lead to a rupture." The rule extends as well to subjects domiciliated as not domiciliated in the kingdom, and foreign countries; "for Frenchmen are not the less Frenchmen, for having gone to live in foreign countries." If France may rightfully prohibit her citizens from accepting foreign commissions to make prize of the property of her friends, why should the United States be reproached for exercising a similar right? A necessary consequence of this wise and just prohibition is, that all prizes taken contrary to it should be restored with damages to the party injured.
The third description of prizes restored is where they have been fitted, and armed in the ports of the United States.
I find no direct, positive provision by the marine laws of France, prohibiting this; but the whole tenor of those laws supposed that vessels of war, are armed in the ports of the sovereign who give the commission. French privateers must not only fit out in a French port, but are bound to bring all prizes made by them into some particular port, or ports expressed in their commissions. Valin, 2 vol. 276. And it is certain that the king of France, previous to his alliance with the United States, delivered up some American prizes, to the English, because the capturing vessel had been armed in a French port.
Mr. Adet's memorial charges that the English have been permitted to arm their vessels, and bring their prizes into our ports.
As to this charge, the fact is simply denied. In the cases mentioned, the vessels said to have taken in guns for their defence, were gone, before he made his representation: yet he complained, and the government did nothing. I ask what could they have done? Mr. Adet will answer, they might have declared war, against Great-Britain; and it is certain, this was the only remedy that remained, in such a case: but neither our interest, nor our duty would have permitted us to have adopted it. Our interest did not permit us to give up our neutrality, and engage in a foreign war; the event of which would have produced many and certain evils, and could not by any possibility have produced any good;—and it was contrary to every principle by which a just nation would desire to act, to have made war on a whole people, because one or two of them had clandestinely taken arms on board for their defence, in one of our ports, without the knowledge of their government, or of ours.
The memorial complains that we have infringed the 17th article of the treaty of 1778, by restraining the prohibition therein contained only to the ships of war, and privateers of their enemies, who should come into our ports, with their prizes.
The literal sense of the 17th article, is, that no armed ship who shall have made prizes from the French people, shall receive an asylum in our ports. The 22d article says that no privateer, fitted under a commission of the enemy of either, shall have an asylum in the ports of the other.—Neither of these articles say any thing of prizes. The literal application of them therefore would exclude the capturing vessels, but give admission to their prizes; which could never have been the intention of the parties. The law of nations, expressly adopted by France, relative to the right of asylum, may illustrate these articles of the treaty. Ord. Louis XIV. Art. XIV. declares, "that no prizes made by captains under a foreign commission, shall remain in our ports, longer than twenty-four hours, unless detained by bad weather, or unless the prize shall have been made from our enemies." But this article, says Valin, is only applicable to prizes carried into a neutral port, "and not at all to armed vessels, whether neutrals or allies, who have taken refuge there, without prizes, either to escape the pursuit of enemies, or for any other cause." They may, in this case remain as long as they please." By the law of neutrality, simply, French prizes could only have remained twenty-four hours in our ports, but by the treaty they have obtained the privilege of remaining as long as they please. This privilege has not only been allowed them in its fullest extent, but we had gone a step further, and as a favor permitted them to sell their prizes, which neither the treaty nor the law of nations required; and which was of more importance than all the rest put together. This favor, as favors generally are, is now claimed as a right, and the withholding it is considered as an injury.—Let us see what the ordinances of the French marine have said on this point. Ord. Louis XIV. Tit. prises, Art. XV. "If in the prizes brought into our ports by vessels armed under a foreign commission, there be any merchandizes belonging to our subjects, or allies, those belonging to our subjects shall be restored, and the rest shall not be put into any store house, or be purchased by any person under any pretext whatsoever." "And all this, says Valin, is founded on the law of neutrality." By the treaty of Utrecht, Louis XIV. and his grandson, the king of Spain, agreed mutually, to permit the prizes made by one to be brought in, and sold in the ports of the other. But this the same author says, was only a particular arrangement, to much the less to be proposed for a general rule, as the two nations had given up the duties on prize goods sold in their dominions; which however did not last long, on account of the abuses to which it gave rise. Abuses similar, I
presume, to those to which the same permission gave rise in this country.
The next ground of complaint is the British treaty and its consequences. This treaty is said to deprive France of all the advantages stipulated in a preceding treaty; and this is done by an abandonment of the modern law of nations.
If we may credit the declaration of the king of France, there were no exclusive advantages stipulated for France, in that treaty. His ambassador delivered a paper to the British court, dated the 13th of March 1778, wherein, after announcing the treaty between France and the United States, he says, "His majesty declares at the same time, that the contracting parties have paid great attention not to stipulate any exclusive advantages in favor of the French nation: and that the United States have reserved the liberty of treating with every other nation whatever, upon the same footing of equality and reciprocity."
The injury supposed to have resulted from an abandonment of the modern public law, assumes two propositions, neither of which is true: 1st. That neutral ships make neutral property: 2d. That materials for building ships, are not among the articles as considered contraband of war. By the marine laws of France, Reg. Dec. 1744. Art. 5, it is directed that "If there are found on board of neutral vessels, of whatever nation they may be, merchandizes or effects, belonging to the enemies of his majesty, they shall be good prizes, even tho' they are not of the growth or manufacture of the enemy's country; but the vessels shall be released." Previous to this regulation, and contrary to the law of nations, as Valin acknowledges, if either the ship or the cargo, or any part of it, was enemy's property, the whole was confiscated, by the laws of France. And at this day, neutral property on board of enemy's ships are, by the same laws, liable to confiscation.
As to contraband of war, timber is enumerated among the articles that are so, by Vattel, lib. III. chap. VII. but Valin is much more particular, 2 vol. 264. "In the treaty of commerce concluded with the king of Denmark, the 23d of August, 1742, pitch and tar were declared contraband: as also rosin, sail cloth, hemp, cordage, masts and timber, for the building of ships. There would have been, therefore, no reason to complain of the conduct of the English, if they had not violated particular treaties; for of right (de droit) these things are contraband at present, and have been so since the beginning of this century, which was not the case formerly."
By the modern law of nations, expressly adopted by France, enemies property on board neutral ships is good prize; and by the same law, the number of contraband articles has been increased so as to include the materials for ship building. All the situations were probably foreseen, in which the treaty might operate favorably or unfavorably for France, at the time it was made. It might have been stipulated that materials for ship building should be deemed contraband, instead of declaring they should not; or, that the United States should not enter into any treaty in which they should be made so. Neither of these being the case, there is no ground of complaint, except that the consequence is inconvenient, at present, to France, and the belligerent powers allied to her. If timber and naval stores are contraband by the law of nations, to declare them to be so by a treaty, cannot be considered as a privilege granted to one nation, or an injury to any other.
[Remainder to-morrow.]
CONGRESS of the UNITED STATES.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Wednesday, December 14.
Continuation of the debate on the address in answer to the President's Speech.
Mr. Harper said it was in order to move for a division of this question. The whole of that part of the answer which he had moved to be struck out, in order to introduce an amendment in its place, was personal to the President: the preceding clause, which the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Giles) included in his motion had respect to the situation of the country, and contained several objects of general concern, and therefore altogether different from the other. Many gentlemen might wish to retain one and to strike out the other. He should wish the sense of the committee to be taken on striking out the first paragraph, "When we advert," &c. He presumed this paragraph would not be struck out. It related to the situation of the country in general; to the grateful sense we entertain of its happy state; and of the influence our constitution has had in producing this prosperous situation. And he would ask whether this had not been the case? There might be different opinions. Some persons might think that the trifling arrangements which had taken place amongst our merchants, might lessen the prosperous scene; others might think that such circumstances would occur in the most flourishing state of a country. But was there any man who did not believe the United States enjoyed happiness and prosperity? That commerce and agriculture did not flourish; that the laws did not reign, and that the country held out a pleasing and delightful prospect? He would ask, whether any person would deny that our government had brought about this situation of things? Would any man say, that if that government had not been established, or something like it, this happiness would have been enjoyed? He believed not. Mr. Harper then took a view of the miserable situation of this country before the establishment of the present government, and made a contrast between the two situations. If, then, said he, these advantages have been really enjoyed, where is the impolicy of saying so? What implication is there in this against the measures of gentlemen, which, if they had been acted upon, might have produced (though he was far from believing they would have done so) more unhappy effects? Was it calling upon them to contradict their former opinions? No. They see the happiness exist, and whence did it arise but from go-

argument? He believed the gentlemen would join them in saying they concurred in these sentiments; and if so, where was the propriety of refusing to agree to this clause? He hoped they would re-consider the matter, and that by dividing the question, the clause moved to be struck out might be retained.
Mr. Nicholas said the question could not be divided; if it could, a member could never vote agreeably to his wish. For his own part, he had rather the paragraph in question should be retained, and have liked the motion better had it not included it.
Mr. Giles said gentlemen might refuse to strike out the whole, and then move to strike out a part, and so attain their object. But, said he, admitting the paragraph to be founded on truth, was it a thing they had any thing to do with as legislators? Was it proper to remind the people of Europe that they are not so happy as we? Suppose, added he, any individual was to go into the house of his neighbor, and say to him, "I am very rich and you are poor; I am very happy, but you are very miserable;" would such a conduct be well received? He believed not; and he was unwilling to do that in a national capacity, which he disapproved in an individual one.
Mr. Sitgreaves said, he felt himself perfectly indifferent as to any division of the question, because his mind was prepared to give an unqualified vote to every sentiment contained in the answer reported. He did not believe it to be either unnatural or unbecoming in us to derive happiness from a contrast of our own situation with that of other nations who were less favored. He believed it was the only way in which we could justly appreciate the value of our situation. He believed everything appeared greater or less, worthless or valuable by comparison, and that our happiness and prosperity would not appear evident, except contrasted with nations less so. He perfectly agreed with the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Giles) that what was condemnable in private life, would be equally so in public, and he should think it wrong for a man to exult over his neighbor's poverty or misfortunes in the way he had mentioned; but though he should not chuse to offend his neighbor, he saw no impropriety if he, in the bosom of his family, pointed out his faults and follies, in order to warn those under his care against the like, and that they might be sufficiently grateful for their superior advantages. He thought there would be nothing in such a conduct either unnatural or unbecoming, and therefore did not wish to see the paragraph struck out.
He did not in any degree doubt the wisdom and firmness of the administration of the government: in the language of the answer, he entertained "a grateful conviction, that the wise, firm and patriotic administration of the President, had been signalily conducive to the success of the present form of government." This, he said, was not only his sentiment—it was the sentiment of America.—Such a sentiment was the only reward which could be given to labours like those of the President: he thought they ought not to be withheld by that house, when every public body, from one end of the continent to the other, were pouring them forth. He saw no reason for being so very cautious of compliment, which would in effect convey reproach instead of praise. If these sentiments were universally felt, there could be no impropriety in their expressing them: but if that House, indeed, believed that the administration of the President had neither been wise, firm nor patriotic, then they would concur with the motion for striking out. It had been insinuated, that the present situation of this country, with respect to its foreign relations, was owing to the want of firmness and wisdom in the administration. His opinion was directly the contrary, and he believed that it was the opinion of America. This opinion was fully expressed by that House on a recent occasion in the last session, and he did not believe it had been any cause for changing its opinion. It was no reason for qualifying the expression relative to the prosperity of the country, because private credit had been in some degree deranged, as that derangement could not be attributed to any act of the government. He was sorry that such circumstances should have been mentioned, to tarnish the bright appearance of the country. These circumstances were but like a speck upon the sun. Why were they not told of the fires which had happened at New-York and Savannah, as well as of the derangements of our merchants? Such trivial matters were not to be mentioned in a national view.—If the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Giles) did not regret the resignation of the President, he did: he believed America did, and he believed this regret was extremely natural and proper.—He did not think it undignified. That gentleman had said the government would go on without him, and that there were many others capable of filling the Presidential chair. This might be so; but did it follow, that they should not regret the loss of a valuable public servant? Should we not regret him, said he, on account of the universal confidence placed in him? Confidence in the officers of government was valuable, he said, under every form, but particularly in a republican government: it was the chief principle from which it derived its energy.—Could this be denied? If not, certainly regret was natural, because this confidence would not be so great in his successor, tho' he might be possessed of equal talents and virtues.
Mr. Sitgreaves said, he should not agree to the motion of the gentleman from S. Carolina, (Mr. Harper) because it was substituting other words in place of those used, for no good reason whatever. Those words would not change or improve the sentiment or the phraseology, and there was therefore no utility in adopting them. Upon the whole, he believed the answer reported, to be free from the charge of adulation. He believed there was not a sentiment in it, which was not justified by fact.—It was expressive of national regret at the departure of our chief magistrate from office, and of national gratitude for his services; sentiments, which he believed would not be agreeable to the American people to withhold from him.
[Debate to be continued.]
Thursday, December 15.
The order of the day being called for on the answer to the President's Speech, the house resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Mr. Muhlenberg in the chair, when Mr. Giles's motion for striking out the last eight paragraphs of the answer being under consideration, after some observations from Mr. Nicholas, Mr. Rutherford and Mr. Livingston, the motion was put and negatived.
Mr. Harper then renewed his motion for striking out the seven last paragraphs, for the purpose of introducing a paragraph containing nearly the same sentiments, which, after a few observations, was negatived, 25 members only being in favor of it.
Mr. Parker renewed his motion for striking out the words "the freest and most enlightened in the world, which, after considerable debate, gave way to an amendment of Mr. Thatcher to have the expression read "the spectacle of a free and enlightened nation, offering," &c. which was carried by a considerable majority.
Mr. Livingston next moved an amendment in the sixth paragraph, to strike out from the word "tranquil" to "period," and to introduce in its stead "present period with that," so as to read "to compare the present period with that immediately antecedent," &c. which was carried 42 to 37.
Mr. Livingston next moved to strike out the words "wise, firm and patriotic administration" in the next paragraph, and to introduce in their stead the words "wisdom, firmness, and patriotism," which after much debate was lost.
The committee then rose and reported the Address with the amendments, which the house took up, and having gone through, Mr. Sitgreaves moved an amendment to strike out the "while we participate" to "countrymen," and to insert after the words "to interest our attention, and" to the following effect, viz. "at the same time that we assure ourselves that your just confidence in the patriotism, self-respect, and fortitude of our countrymen, will not, in any event, be disappointed, and that they will not, on any occasion, forget what is due to the character of our government and nation." This motion occasioned considerable debate, and was at length defeated by the previous question, which was put in these words, "shall the main question now be put?" The Yeas and Nays were called for, and taken as follows.
YEAS.
Messrs. Ames, Bradbury, Coit, Craik, Davenport, Ege, A. Foster, D. Foster, Gilbert, Glen, Goodrich, Griswold, Harper, Hartley, Henderson, S. Lyman, Malbone, Read, Sewall, Sitgreaves, N. Smith, Isaac Smith, W. Smith, Swift, Thatcher, Thomas, Thompson, Van Allen, Wadsworth, Williams, Hindman—31.
NAYES.
Messrs. Bailey, Baldwin, Baird, Blount, Bryan, Christie, Claiborn, Clopton, Coles, Dent, Dearborn, Franklin, Freeman, Gallatin, Giles, Gillespie, Gilman, Greenup, Gregg, Grove, Harrison, Havens, Heath, Holland, A. Jackson, G. Jackson, Kitchen, Livingston, Locke, W. Lyman, MacKay, Macon, Madison, Moore, Muhlenberg, Nicholas, Page, Parker, Patton, Richards, Sherburne, Israel Smith, Stradwick, Swanwick, R. Sprigg, Van Cortlandt, Varnum, Venable—48.
In the course of this debate, which was of a considerable length, some very warm expressions took place betwixt the Speaker, Mr. W. Smith, and Mr. Harper on the point of order. The latter gentleman appealed from the chair to the house, and was pronounced by the house to be out of order.
Mr. Blount moved to strike out the last sentence in the address, "for your country's sake, &c." when the Yeas and Nays were taken as follows:
YEAS.
Messrs. Bailey, Baird, Blount, Christie, Clopton, Coles, Gallatin, Giles, Greenup, Heath, Holland, A. Jackson, G. Jackson, Livingston, Locke, W. Lyman, MacKay, Macon, Moore, Parker, Patton, Swanwick, Varnum, Venable—24.
NAYES.
Messrs. Ames, Baldwin, Bradbury, Bryan, Claiborn, Coit, Craik, Davenport, Dearborn, Dent, Ege, A. Foster, D. Foster, Franklin, Freeman, Gilbert, Gillespie, Gilman, Glen, Goodrich, Gregg, Griswold, Grove, Harper, Hartley, Havens, Henderson, Hindman, Kitchen, S. Lyman, Madison, Malbone, Muhlenberg, Nicholas, Page, Read, Richards, Sewall, Sherburne, Sitgreaves, N. Smith, Israel Smith, Isaac Smith, W. Smith, Sprigg, Stradwick, Swift, Thatcher, Thomas, Thompson, Van Cortlandt, Van Allen, Wadsworth, Williams—54.
On the question being about to be put on the answer as amended, Mr. Blount said he wished the Yeas and Nays might be again taken that posterity might see that he was not consenting to this address. The question was carried 67 to 12. The Nays were Messrs. Blount, Coles, Giles, Greenup, Holland, A. Jackson, Livingston, Locke, W. Lyman, MacKay, Macon, and Venable.
Messrs. Ames, Madison and Sitgreaves were appointed a committee to wait upon the President to enquire when and where he would receive the answer to his address.
Adjourned.
FOR THE GAZETTE OF THE UNITED STATES.
MR. FENNO,
Considering Theatrical exhibitions, when conducted with an earnest desire to please those who support the Theatre, by frequent attendance, as the only rational entertainment the Citizens, in Philadelphia, can possibly partake of in public.—After the laborious hours of business, the theatre presents itself, to smooth the varied scenes of life, to see Nature portrayed or "catch the manners living as they rise" either in the comic or Tragic mimes, these form "a consummation devoutly to be wished," by every admirer of the Drama.
I well remember that for two seasons past, the performances have been much approved of, the performers received that indulgence and almost unbounded encouragement their respective merits entitled them to; and at the close of each season, the Managers thanked the public, for their "very generous and liberal support." How then can those very Managers, now come forth, and assert, the very contrary to be the
fact: it was then true, or if not, their acknowledgements must be considered only, as satirical eulogiums on a parsimonious public, whom they seem inclined to force into any measure they may please to adopt.
Mr. Wignell, has gratified the Philadelphians, in bringing Mrs. Merry to America, such exquisite performances as hers, must convince, even the most prejudiced, that the stage can, and ought to portray nature in all the beauties of expression and action. In these Mrs. Merry answers our most sanguine expectations. Were there such helps to her as her abilities deserve, and demand, the New Theatre would fully compensate the Managers (even at the advanced price of admission) for their labors. Excepting this paragon, this excellent theatrical Star, the present company is much inferior in numbers and abilities to any former season: how then, can the public expect to have that entertainment generally they have been used to. We may judge from a comparative scale of the abilities of those Performers who have left the Theatre (on what account the public are no otherwise concerned than in the loss) and those newly engaged, it plainly appears, the public are not benefited. I have arranged the merits, upon a ratio, making fifteen equal to the highest perfection, upon a general line of acting, of those absent, and of those engaged to supply their stations, leaving the generality of the company to their own merits, several of whom are really respectable.
Performers absent. New Performers. Mrs. Whitlock, 13 Mrs. Merry, 15 Shaw, 10 Mechler, 4 Marshall, 9 Miss L'Estrange, 4 Cleveland, 5 Mrs. L'Estrange, 3 Green, 4 Rowson, 3 Miss Bradburn, 10 Mr. Fennell, 13 Mr. Cooper, 11 Bates, 12 Warren, 9 Chalmers, 12 Fox, 6 Whitlock, 11 L'Estrange, 4 Marshall, 7 Cleveland, 5 Green, 5 119 56
From this it appears that the former Companies were much superior in number and abilities, to the present arrangement. I have omitted several performers belonging now and formerly to the same theatre, whose performances merit, on the same scale, viz. Mr. Moreton, 13, and who undoubtedly is the only chaste male Actor on the New Theatre stage. Mr. Wignell, 10. Mr. Harwood, (whom the public are happy to recognize once again) 13. Mr. Francis, 9. Mrs. Oldmixon, 14. Mrs. Morris, 8. Mrs. Warren, 9.
The above system of Merits, are more from public, than private opinion; and the general receipts of the Theatre will speak most feelingly to the understandings of the Managers, and Subscribers, whether the advantage this Season, will be more favorable than any former one.
PHILO THEATRICUS.
FOR THE GAZETTE OF THE UNITED STATES.
NEW THEATRE.
HENRY IV.
THAT "huge hill of flesh," the sensible, witty, gay, humorous, cowardly, gluttonous, lying, thieving Falstaff, has not been, "any time these two-and-twenty years," exhibited in a more masterly and impressive style, than by Warren, on Wednesday evening.
Indeed this piece of acting was given with so perfect comprehension of all the minutiae of the character, that criticism or comment were vain: From the opening of the play to the close, it was supported with such naivete, animation, and consistency, as to authorize the opinion, that no performance in America ever afforded higher satisfaction, or possessed better claims to pre-eminent merit. Shakespeare, in the course of his dramas, furnishes the critical observer with the original models of most of the prominent characters in modern plays. Dr. Johnson observes, that his "Pistol" is the model of all the bullies on the English stage. Dr. Young's Revenge is wholly built on the tragedy of Othello, but it is unnecessary to cite instances: the remark must strike every one; and all that is left to regret, is, that this system has not been more generally pursued. Falstaff, voracious Falstaff, still stands untouched by the pen of any modern imitator. And here Shakespeare must forever shine without a rival. His overbearing excellence in this finished part, must inevitably swallow, as in a vortex, all who attempt to interfere with him. Indeed Shakespeare himself is thought to have fallen off somewhat in the continuation of his Fat Knight, in the Merry Wives of Windsor. As he is said to have written this play in order to continue the character, by command of Queen Elizabeth, perhaps his genius may have been cramped or laid under restraint by the royal command.
If any parts of Mr. Warren's performance were particularly deserving of commendation, the whole of his first dialogue with the prince; the soliloquy on honor; the merit is the delivery of which was such as to render shouts of applause irresistible—his account of his soldiers;—and that part of the second act where he upbraids the prince with deserting him, "a plague of all cowards," might be mentioned as instances.
Mr. Cooper has great merit in Hotspur; his action is good; tho' too redundant. If he erred, it was in not being "hot" enough—in general, this leading trait in the character did not miss his attention—at times however he was remiss. The soliloquy on the contents of the letter, and the scene with his wife, were admirable.
It may not be improper to notice here some remarks of a writer, who criticises on Mr. Cooper, with little "candor" or consideration. His action, says this writer, was "mechanical." Is not all action mechanical? After destituting Cooper of all claim to merit, he concludes with an enumeration, including all the more important points of the character, wherein he acknowledges him to have been "peculiarly fortunate."
Mr. Moreton, when acting "Hal" was in his element, and did ample justice to the part; he spoiled all in the Prince, by his rant. In this par-
Within this period have died two performers, of distinguished excellence in the character of Falstaff—Garrick and Henderson. Had they liv'd to "die hereafter," there might have been opportunity of instituting a comparison; but "tis better as it is;" and a "younger" must rely for his knowledge of them, on the "abstract and brief chronicles of the times."
ticular, however, he has much amended. It must all be shaken off, before he can become a perfect actor.
Mr. L'Estrange gave some parts in the King with considerable energy, and effect. W.
PHILADELPHIA,
FRIDAY EVENING, DECEMBER 16, 1796.
RETURN OF VOTES FOR PRESIDENT AND VICE-PRESIDENT Adams Pinckney Jefferson Burr Adams P. Henry Clinton Washington S. Johnson G. Elsworth New-Hampshire, 16 13 Massachusetts, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, 9 4 5 Vermont, New-York, 12 12 New-Jersey, 7 7 Pennsylvania, 1 2 14 13 Delaware, 3 3 Maryland, 7 4 4 3 2 Virginia, 1 1 20 13 3 1 Kentucky, Tennessee, North-Carolina, South-Carolina, Georgia, Total,
From the Aurora.
"Mr. Fenno has asserted, that the Senate's answer to the President's speech passed that House unanimously. We know to the contrary."
Extract from the Journal of the Senate of the United States, Saturday, December 10, 1796.
"The Senate resumed the consideration of the report of the committee in answer to the address of the President of the United States to both Houses of Congress, and after further amendments it was unanimously adopted as follows," &c.
It is a melancholy fact, that the true cause of the present stagnation in our commercial concerns is the high price of produce.
Surely our patriotic farmers will not look on tamely till our merchants are all ruined and their shipping rotten, for the vain hope that another famine in Europe may occur to favor the present exorbitant prices for their grain.
Arrived—Ship Peggy, Elliot, Bourdeaux, 54 days.—Left Bourdeaux October 21.
BY THIS DAY'S MAILS.
BOSTON, December 9.
Massachusetts Electors.
On Tuesday last the sixteen Electors of this Commonwealth convened in the Senate chamber, agreeable to a resolve of the Legislature, passed at the last session. The whole number being present, they adjourned to Wednesday, when they again met conformably to the Constitution and Law of the United States, and proceeded to the choice of President and Vice President. The vote, stood as follows;
John Adams, 16 Thomas Pinckney S. C. 13 Samuel Johnson N. C. 2 Oliver Ellsworth Con. 1
An express was dispatched to Philadelphia, with a certificate of the votes, signed by each Elector; another certificate goes by the regular post. One is deposited in the office of the District Clerk, and one in the Secretary's office of the Commonwealth.
NEW-YORK, December 15.
SERIOUS ALARM.
Renewed attempts to set fire to different parts of the city have been discovered.—On Tuesday night a shed in the rear of Messrs. Lindley and Knox's work shop, in Liberty-street, was observed to be caught from coals of fire concealed in an oiled cloth, similarly secured with those lately deposited in Mr. Smith's and Depuyter's cellars in Pearl-street. The house of Mr. Lewis Ogden, in Pearl-street, has been twice set on fire; the evidence of malicious intention is indubitable, and he has sent his black man, suspected, to prison: Another attempt, we learn, was made on Tuesday night in Beckman-street; a bed was set on fire under a child, and his cries alarmed his family; yesterday morning the back-door of Mr. R. Leroy's house in Green-wich-street, adjoining Mr. Lindley's, was observed to have been affected from the same means; the fire having burned through the lower part of the door before it expired.
Sufficient evidence is thus obtained of the evil intentions of a desperate gang which infests the city; and the vigilance of the citizens should be excited proportionably to the mischief which may arise, if they are not early discovered or checked in their attempts. An additional night-watch of confidential persons, to be employed by the inhabitants of the different wards;—or an association of themselves for the same purpose, have been thought of as some means of procuring additional security, and in some parts of the city have already been adopted. We conceive that a reward should also be offered for the discovery of the villains; and a subscription to defray the expence thereof (which should be liberal) we have no doubt would be rapidly made up by the inhabitants.
In addition to the above, we hear that attempts have been made to set fire to the large and elegant range of stores belonging to Mr. Delafield, near the exchange.
Attempts were likewise made to set fire to the ship Mohawk, Capt. Moore.
A meeting of a number of the inhabitants of the first and second wards of this city, at Mr. Rattoone's tavern, on Wednesday evening the 14th December, 1796, it was unanimously agreed—
That it appears attempts have been made by evil disposed persons (unknown to us) to set fire to the city in divers places; it is therefore recommended that night-watch, composed of citizens from each ward, be established, to serve in rotation, until a more regular system can be established; and that a guard of twenty men, from this meeting be appointed to patrol the first and part of the second wards of this city, as far as Wall-street, for this and the four succeeding nights; and that Melancton Smith, James Van Dyk, Andrew Morris, Simon Schermerhorn, and Henry Wyckoff, be a committee to appoint the watch in the mean time; and it is further recommended, that similar measures be adopted by the citizens of the different wards. WILLIAM NELSON, chairman.

Horses taken in, For the Winter Season, And fed on clover hay at the Subscriber's place, 12 miles on the Bristol Road, where good stabling is provided, and great care will be taken of them William Bell. Nov. 23. mwfz wmtf.
SWANN'S Riding School, Horse Academy & Infirmary. Adjoining the Public Square, Market Street. T. SWANN
RETURNS his sincere thanks to those gentlemen by whom he has been employed, during his residence in this City, and states himself that the success of his efforts, in the numerous, obstinate and dangerous diseases in Horses, in which he has been consulted, together with his moderate charges, will secure their future favors and recommendation.
He now begs leave to inform them and the public at large that his spacious and commodious premises, erected for the purposes above described are open for the reception of pupils of either sex, who wish to be instructed in the Art of Riding, and the right method of governing their horses, to as to ride them with ease, elegance, and safety—their horses will be carefully and expeditiously broke, for every purpose, and made obedient to the will of the riders; the natural powers which are shut up in them, will be unfolded by art, calling forth uniformity of motion, and giving to that noble animal all those beauties of action which providence has so bountifully bestowed on them.
Also, at his hospital, every disorder to which the horse is liable will be treated according to the rules of art, confirmed by long and repeated experience.
The utility of the above institution has never been questioned, that it has long been wanted in this city, every gentleman's stud will manifest, and T. SWANN as the first establisher of the veterinary art, folliets and relies upon the support of that public (which he is ever anxious in serving) to enable him to bring it to perfection. The idea of a subscription for that purpose has been hinted by several gentlemen, who wish to promote the institution—the amount of each subscription to be returned by services in any of the departments he professes, agreeable to the rate of charges listed in his hand bill. Such subscription is now open, and the signatures of many respectable gentlemen already obtained. He therefore informs his friends and such Ladies and gentlemen to whom he has not the honor of being known, that he shall in a few days take the liberty of waiting upon them and soliciting their support and protection.
N. B. Horses are properly prepared for those Ladies and Gentlemen who wish to be instructed. Nov. 5. uh&f.
The Elephant IS RETURNED FROM BALTIMORE. THE public are respectfully informed, that this animal is to be seen every day, from 8 o'clock in the morning till sun down, in Market-street, No. 106, south side, between Third and Fourth-streets. Admittance a quarter of a dollar, that every citizen may see him. At the request of many persons it will be exhibited on evenings from five to eight o'clock, at half a dollar each. The room will be well lighted. November 7.
A Short Delay In the Drawing of the Canal Lottery, In Washington city, has been unavoidably occasioned by the unforeseen intervention of Mr. Blodgett's Lottery—but as the major part of the tickets are now disposed of, this is to inform the public that the drawing of the Canal Lottery will certainly commence without fail, on the first Monday in January 1797, and those holding tickets, are hereby requested to send a statement of those sold, and those on hand.
NOTLEY YOUNG, DANIEL CARROLL, of Duddington, GEORGE WALKER, THOMAS LAW, JAMES BARRY, W. M. DUNCANSON. The Printers who gave our advertisements a place in their newspapers, are requested to give this notice admission, as the remaining tickets are expected to be soon above par, and we with adventurers to be timely informed. Nov. 12. fffgw.
Treasury of the United States. NOTICE is hereby given to all persons who are or may be Creditors of the United States, for any sums of the Public Debt, or Stock, bearing a present interest of five per centum per annum.
That pursuant to an Act of Congress passed on the 28th day of April, 1796, intituled an act in addition to an act, intituled "An act making further provision for the support of public credit, and for the redemption of the public debt," the said debt or stock will be reimbursed and paid in manner following, to wit: "First, by dividends to be made on the last days of March, June and September for the present year, and from the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-seven, to the year one thousand eight hundred and eighteen inclusive, at the rate of one and one half per centum upon the original capital. Secondly, by dividends to be made on the last day of December for the present year, and from the year one thousand seven hundred and ninety-seven, to the year one thousand eight hundred and eighteen inclusive, at the rate of three and one half per centum upon the original capital and by a dividend to be made on the last day of December, in the year one thousand eight hundred and eighteen, of such sum, as will be then adequate, according to the contract, for the final redemption of the said stock."
All distinction between payments on account of Interest and Principal being thus abolished by the establishment of the permanent rule of reimbursement above described, it has become necessary to vary accordingly the powers of attorney for receiving dividends; the public creditors will therefore observe that the following form established for all powers of attorney which may be granted after the due promulgation of this notice, viz:
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that I do make, constitute and appoint my true and lawful Attorney for me, and in my name, to receive the dividends which are, or shall be payable according to law, on the (here describing the stock) standing in my name in the books of (here describing the books of the Treasury or the Commissioner of Loans, where the stock is credited) from (here insert the commencement and expiration of time for which the power of attorney is to continue) with power also an attorney or attorneys under him, for that purpose to make and fulfil, and to do all lawful acts requisite for effecting the premises, hereby ratifying and confirming all that my said Attorney or his substitute shall lawfully do by virtue hereof. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal this day in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and ninety-seven. Sealed and Delivered in presence of: RE IT KNOWN, that on the day of before me personally came within mine and acknowledged the above letter of attorney to be his act and deed. In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and affixed the seal this day and year first above-mentioned. Given under my Hand at Philadelphia, this twenty-sixth day of July 1796, pursuant to directions from the Secretary of the Treasury. SAMUEL MEREDITH, Treasurer of the United States. July 23. w 18 11 3/4
James Mulgrave, GOLDSMITH & JEWELLER, No. 42, South Second-street, HAS just received an assortment of Plated Ware and Jewellery, Plated Tea and Coffee Urns, Coffee Pots, Tea ditto, Casks from 5 to 8 bottles, Sugar and Cream Bafons, Bottle Stands, Baskets, high Candlesticks, Brackets and Chamber ditto, Branches, Sconces, a variety of Silver and Plated Shoe Laches, Spurs, &c. &c. warranted of the best plate; Ladies and Gentlemen's Gold Watch Chains, Seals and Keys; Necklaces, Neck Chains, Ear Rings, Finger Rings, Lockets, Breast Pins, Stone Knee-Buckles, with many other articles in the above branches. He has likewise received an extensive assortment of japanned tea and coffee Urns, perian, blue, brown, black and gold. All kinds of work in the gold and silver line; miniatures set, and hair work executed as usual. November 9. tu th & f
Any PERSON Who is well acquainted with the River MISSISSIPPI, And will give Directions for sailing into the same, that can be depended on, shall be generously rewarded for his information, provided he will leave the directions with Mr. John Fenn, printer, Philadelphia, or Edmund M. Blunt, Newburyport. November 3. rawam
Lottery and Broker's Office, No. 64, South Second-street. TICKETS in the Canal Lottery, No. 2, for sale—a Check Book for examination—and prizes paid in the late Lottery. Check Books kept for examination and registering, for the City of Washington, No. 2, and Paterson Lotteries, both of which are now drawing—information where tickets are to be had, and prizes exchanged for undrawn tickets. A complete list of all the prizes in the late New-Port Long-Wharf, Hotel and Public School Lottery, for examination. The subscriber solicits the application of the public and his friends, who wish to purchase or sell Bank Stock, Certificates, Bills of Exchange or Notes, Houses, Lands, &c. or to obtain money on deposit of property. Also Tickets in the Schuylkill Bridge Lottery for sale at Ten Dollars each, which will be drawn early in the Spring. Wm. Blackburn. mth Philadelphia, August 28, 1796.
Brokers Office, and COMMISSION STORE. No. 63 South Third-street, opposite the national new Bank. SAMUEL M. FRAUNCES and JOHN VAN REED, have entered into co-partnership, under the firm of FRAUNCES & VAN REED, in the business of Brokers, Conveyancers and Commission merchants. They buy and sell on commission every species of stock, notes of hand, bills of exchange, houses and lands, &c. Money procured on deposits, &c. &c. all kinds of writings in the conveyancing line, done with neatness and dispatch; accounts adjusted, and books settled, in the most correct manner. Constant attendance will be given. They solicit a share of the public favor; they are determined to endeavour to deserve it. N. B. The utmost secrecy observed. SAMUEL M. FRAUNCES, JOHN VAN REED. Philad. August 27, 1796. m&wtf
City of Washington. SCHEME of the LOTTERY, No. II, FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF THE FEDERAL CITY.
  A magnificent 30,000 dollars, & 3 dwelling-houses, each 30,000, are 59,000   1 ditto 25,000 & cash 25,000 40,000   1 ditto 15,000 & cash 15,000 20,000   1 ditto 10,000 & cash 10,000 20,000   1 ditto 5,000 & cash 5,000 10,000   1 ditto 3,000 & cash 3,000 10,000   1 cash prize of 10,000   2 do. 5,000 each, are 10,000   10 do. 1,000 10,000   20 do. 500 10,000   40 do. 250 10,000   200 do. 50 10,000   1,000 do. 20 20,000   15,000 do. 10 150,000   16,739 Prizes.   32,261 Blanks.   50,000 Tickets, at Eight Dollars, 400,000 
N. B. To favour those who may take a quantity of Tickets, the prize of 40,000 dollars will be the LAST drawn ticket, and the 30,000 the LAST but one. And approved notes, securing payment in either money or prizes, in ten days after drawing, will be received for any number not less than 50 tickets. This Lottery will afford an elegant specimen of the private buildings to be erected in the City of Washington—Two beautiful designs are already selected for the entire fronts on two of the public squares; from these drawings it is proposed to erect two centre and four corner buildings, as soon as possible after this lottery is sold, and to convey them, when complete, to the fortunate adventurers, in the manner described in the scheme for the Hotel Lottery. A net deduction of five per cent. will be made to defray the necessary expenses of printing, &c. and the surplus will be made a part of the fund intended for the National University, to be erected within the city of Washington. The Drawing will commence as soon as the tickets are off off.—The money prizes will be payable in thirty days after it is finished; and any prizes for which fortunate numbers are not produced within twelve months after the drawing is closed, are to be considered as given towards the fund for the University; it being determined to settle the whole business in a year from the closing of the drawing, and to take up the bonds given as security. The real securities given for the payment of the Prizes, are held by the President and two Directors of the Bank of Columbia, and are valued at more than half the amount of the lottery. The twenty-four gentlemen who by appointment of the late Commissioners assisted in the management of the Hotel Lottery are requested to undertake this arduous task a second time on behalf of the public; a sufficient number of these having kindly accepted, it is hoped that the friends to a National University and the other federal objects may continue to favor the design. By accounts received from the different parts of the Continent as well as from Europe, where the tickets have been sent for sale, the public are assured that the drawing will speedily commence, and that the care and caution unavoidably necessary to insure a safe disposal of the tickets, has rendered the most supposition indispensable. SAMUEL BLODGETT.
5. Tickets may be had at the Bank of Columbia; of James West & Co. Baltimore; of Peter Gilman, Boston; of John Hopkins, Richmond; and of Richard Wells, Cooper's Ferry.
SALT PETRE. A large quantity of Double-Refined Salt Petre for sale at No. 23, South Third-street. November 3.
Washington Canal Lottery, No. I.
WHEREAS the State of Maryland has authorised the underwritten, to raise twenty-five thousand, two hundred, and fifty dollars, for the purpose of cutting a Canal through the City of Washington, from the Potomac to the Eastern Branch Harbour. The following is the SCHEME of No. I. Viz - 1 Prize of 20,000 dollars, 20,000 1 ditto 10,000 10,000 7 last drawn } 5,000 35,000 Tickets, each } 6 ditto 1,000 6,000 10 ditto 400 4,000 20 ditto 100 2,000 55 ditto 50 2,750 5750 ditto 12 69,008 To be raised for the Canal, 26,250 5850 Prizes, 175,000 11650 Blanks, not two to a prize.
17500 Tickets, at Ten Dollars. 175,000 The Commissioners have taken the Securities required by the aforesaid act for the punctual payment of the prizes. The drawing of this Lottery will commence, without delay, as soon as the Tickets are sold, of which timely notice will be given. Such prizes as are not demanded in six months after the drawing is finished, shall be considered as relinquished for the benefit of the Canal, and appropriated accordingly. (Signed) NOTLEY YOUNG, DANIEL CARROLL, of D. LEWIS DEBLOIS, GEORGE WALKER, WM. M. DUNCANSON, THOMAS LAW, JAMES BARRY. City of Washington, Feb. 11. $
Paterion Lottery.
FOR raising six thousand six hundred and sixty-seven dollars and fifty cents, by a deduction of fifteen per cent from the prizes, and not two blanks to a prize. viz 1 Prize of 5000 dollars is dollars 5000 1 1000 1000 1 500 500 5 200 1000 20 100 2000 99 50 4950 200 25 5000 2000 10 20000 5 Last drawn numbers of 1000 dollars each, 5000 2332 Prizes. 44,450 4018 Blanks.
6350 Tickets at Seven Dollars each, 44,450 By order of the Directors of the Society for establishing Useful Manufactures, the superintendents of the Paterion Lottery have requested the Managers to offer the foregoing Scheme to the public, and have directed them to refund the money to those persons who have purchased in the former Lottery, or exchange the tickets for tickets in this Lottery. The lottery has actually commenced drawing, and will continue until finished. A list of the Blanks and Prizes may be seen at the office of William Blackburn, No. 64 South Second-street, who will give information where tickets may be procured. Dated this 17th day of June, 1796. J. N. CUMMING, JACOB R. HARDENBERG, } Managers. JONATHAN RHEA, STATE OF THE WHEEL.
  1 Prize of 5000 5000   1 1000 1000   1 500 500   5 200 1000   20 100 2000   99 50 4950   165 25 4125   The five last drawn tickets, 1000 each, 5000   Being all the valuable prizes, besides a full proportion of the 10 dollars.   As the Lottery is considerably more than one third drawn, the value of the undrawn tickets is greatly increased, and it is worth the notice of those who hold tickets in the old scheme, that they can exchange their tickets for those in the above, if they apply soon, and at a moderate advance considering the new real value of an undrawn ticket.   The tickets being nearly all sold, the drawing in future will be oftener, and the Lottery soon finished. November 12. mwt 
By Authority. Schuylkill Bridge Lottery.
Sold by WILLIAM BLACKBURN, No. 64, South Second-street.
SCHEME of a LOTTERY,
For raising Sixty Thousand Dollars, agreeably to an Act of the Legislature of Pennsylvania, passed during the last session, for building a Stone Bridge over the River Schuylkill, at the Borough of Reading, in the County of Berks. Dollars. 1 Prize of 20,000 Dollars 20,000 1 do. of 10,000 do. 10,000 3 do. of 5,000 do. 15,000 4 do. of 2,500 do. 10,000 20 do. of 1,000 do. 20,000 30 do. of 500 do. 15,000 80 do. of 200 do. 16,000 200 do. of 100 do. 20,000 300 do. of 50 do. 15,000 1 do. of 500 do. to be paid the possessor for of the first drawn no. 500 5 do. of 3,000 do. to be paid to others of the five last drawn nos 15,000 9,450 do. 15 do. 141,000 10,054 Prizes 300,000 30,016 Blanks
90,000 Tickets at Ten Dollars 900,000 All Prizes shall be paid fifteen days after the drawing is finished, upon the demand of a possessor of a fortunate ticket, subject to a deduction of twenty per cent. The Drawing will commence as soon as the Tickets are disposed of, or perhaps sooner, of which public notice will be given. Philip Miller, Peter Kershner, William Wiman, Joseph Hiesler, James Diemer, Thomas Dundas, James May, John Otto, John Keim, Daniel Graeff, Sebastian Miller, COMMISSIONERS. Reading, May the 9th, 1796. Tickets in the Canal Lottery, No. 2, to be had at the above office, where the earliest information of the drawing of the Washington No. 2, and Paterion Lottery's, are received, and check books for examination and registering are kept. October 7. 2awtf
Le Breton, SURGEON-DENTIST, Pupil of the celebrated M r . Dubois, late Dentist to the King and Royal Family of France, member of the College and Academy of Surgeons at Paris, Keeps a complete assortment of every thing necessary to be used for the Preservation of the Mouth and Teeth. Patent Mineral Teeth, and Human & Ivory Teeth; Dentifrice in powder; Opiate; excellent Elixir for sweetening the mouth and preserving the teeth—he also furnishes Brushes and soft Sponges. He lives in Chestnut-street, No. 135, above Fourth-street. November 26. ttt
DANCING SCHOOL. WILLIAM M'DOUGALL will open his school on Monday the 31st inst. at ten o'clock in the morning, at his Elegant New Ball Rooms, In Fourth, between Chestnut and Walnut Streets. Hours of tuition for young ladies, from 10 to 1 o'clock on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays mornings; and for young gentlemen from 6 to 9 o'clock on the evenings of the same days. In addition to a number of new cotillions, he means to introduce a variety of Scotch Reels. Note. The first practising ball to be on Tuesday evening, the first of November, and to be continued every Tuesday, during the season. For terms, &c. enquire at his house, No. 134, Market-street. Oct. 17. thf
A Manufactory FOR SALE. A Valuable SOAP and CANDLE Manufactory, situate in a convenient part of the city; the works almost new, on an entirely original construction, and built of the best materials, and may be set to work immediately. Persons who wish to purchase, are requested to apply at No. 273, South Second-street. September 13. t t f
Twenty Guineas Reward. RANAWAY from the subscriber on the 23d October, a dark MULATTO BOY, named MOSES; 21 years old; about 5 feet 8 inches high; had on a miked green coat, with a green velvet cape and oval yellow buttons; a striped vest; a pair of dark spotted pantaloons, and whole boots much worn. It is probable he may change his name and dress. He has been accustomed to driving a carriage, and waiting. The above reward will be paid for securing him so that the subscriber may get him again, and if brought home all reasonable charges paid by Robins Chamberlaine. Easton, Maryland, Nov. 10. 14 smzawtf
SAMUEL RICHARDET RESPECTFULLY informs the Gentlemen Merchants, that he has this day opened the CITY TAVERN and MERCHANTS COFFEE-HOUSE in the city of Philadelphia. The Subscription Room will be furnished with all the daily papers published in Philadelphia, New-York, Boston, Baltimore, together with those of the principal commercial cities of Europe—They will be regularly filed and none permitted to be taken away on any account. Tea, Coffee, Soups, Jellies, Ice Creams, and a variety of French Liquors; together with the usual refreshments, will at all times be procured at the bar. Gentlemen may depend on being accommodated with the choicest of Wines, Spirituous Liquors, and the most approved Malt Liquors from London and other breweries. The Larder will be supplied with the prime and earliest productions of the Season. Large and small Parties, or single Gentlemen, may be accommodated with Breakfasts, Dinners, or Suppers, at hours most convenient to themselves—a cold Collation is regularly kept for convenience, the Bill of Fare to be had at the bar. The Lodging Rooms will be completely furnished, and the utmost attention paid to cleanliness, and every other requisite. SAMUEL RICHARDET will be happy to receive, and execute the commands of his Friends, and the Public at large; and with gratitude for their favours, he pledges himself that nothing on his part shall be wanting to preserve that patronage with which he has been so distinguishedly honored. Philadelphia, April 10. mwf
Treasury Department, September 28, 1796.
NOTICE is hereby given, that proposals will be received at the office of the Secretary of the Treasury until the expiration of the first day of March next ensuing, for the supply of all rations which may be required for the use of the United States, from the first day of June, 1797, to the thirty-first day of May, 1798, both days inclusive, at the places and within the districts hereinafter mentioned, viz. At Oswego; at Niagara; at Presque Isle; at Sandusky Lake, and on Sandusky River; at Detroit; at Michilimackinac; at Fort-Franklin; at Pittsburgh; at Cincinnati; at Fort-Hamilton; at Fort St. Clair; at Fort-Jefferson; at Greenville; at Pique Town and Loramie's Store; at Fort Adams; at Fort Wayne; at Fort Defiance; at any place below Fort Defiance on the Miami River to Lake Erie; at Fort St. Stephen; at Fort Massac; at any place from Fort Massac to the south boundary of the United States on the river Mississippi; at Fort Knox; at Ouatanon. If supplies shall be required for any posts or places not mentioned in this notice, all such supplies shall be furnished at prices proportioned to those to be paid at the posts before recited, or as may be hereafter agreed on between the United States and the Contractor. The rations to be supplied are to consist of the following articles, viz: One pound two ounces of bread or flour. One pound two ounces of beef, or fourteen ounces of pork or bacon. Half a gill of rum, brandy or whiskey. One quart and half a pint of salt. Two quarts of Vinegar. Two pounds of Soap, } per hundred rations One pound of Candles. The rations are to be furnished in such quantities, as that there shall at all times, during the said term, be sufficient for the consumption of the troops at Michilimackinac, Detroit, Niagara, and Oswego, for the term of six months in advance, and at each of the other posts, for the term of at least three months in advance, in good and wholesome provisions, if the same shall be required. It is to be understood, that the Contractor is to be at the expense and risk of issuing the supplies to the troops at each post, and that all losses sustained by the depredations of an enemy, or by means of the troops of the United States, shall be paid for at the price of the articles captured or destroyed, on the depredations of two or more persons of creditable character, and the certificate of a commissioned officer, ascertaining the circumstances of the loss, and the amount of the articles for which compensation shall be claimed. OLIVER WOLCOTT, Secretary of the Treasury.
PRINTED BY JOHN FENNO, No. 119— CHESTNUT-STREET. [Price Eight Dollars per Annum.]