Gazette of the United-States. (New-York [N.Y.]), 1789-12-19 00:00:00

Gazette of the United States.
[No. LXXII.]
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19, 1789.
[Published on Wednesday and Saturday.]
THE TABLET.
No. LXXII.
"We often fancy or forge an effect, and then set ourselves as gravely as ridiculously to find out the cause."
FROM a curiosity which is innate in man, he is often hurried into researches after knowledge on such false grounds, as will betray him into deception, in proportion as he extends his pursuits. If we took nothing for granted, that had no foundation in fact; and cherished no principles, that were unsupported by reason, our enquiries would be much fewer, and our reflections much less tedious, than they are. The pleasure of delusion is so captivating that men reluctantly bear restraints upon the imagination. No period of time has been exempt from a variety of popular fallacies and errors. Even those ages, that have been most celebrated for learning and philosophy, have been agitated with many frivolous disputes, which were deemed important from the characters who engaged in them, and from the vanity and zeal that were exhibited through the discussion. How many men, who have assumed the name of philosophers, have exhausted their lives in examining the absurdities and exploding the heresies of former sects or philosophers! How many persons, who would palm themselves upon the world as wise and learned men, have wasted their days in the most laborious studies, without discovering an important truth, or recommending a useful virtue!
It would be expecting too much from human nature, to hope there ever will be a period, when reason is not liable to be borne away on the wings of imagination, and when truth is not obscured by folly and prejudice. The superstition of past times, however, is so far dissipated by the progress of science, that the road to truth seems to be more open and practicable. We hear few stories of evil spirits; and the doctrine of witchcraft and enchantments is generally exploded. The mind, relieved from the fears and delusions that such imaginary evils suggest, is left more at liberty to contemplate upon things that have a real existence. This gives an advantage to our researches, by turning our attention to subjects that can be examined by rational evidence, and afford some degree of precision and certainty. Our thinking faculty cannot remain still and unexercised. It must have materials for contemplation; and it will create ideal and visionary images if actual ones are unknown or disregarded. For this reason, ignorant people fall a prey to false opinions, and to a thousand imaginary terrors, which an enlightened mind despises and rejects.
Curiosity has such power over the soul, as to make it often delight most in pursuing objects that are new and extraordinary. The uncertainty of the attainment sometimes pushes us further into the dark, and when we are involved in mystery, we do not suspect we have wandered from the truth, but that it is too incomprehensible to be understood. Thus many a man has perplexed his understanding in seeking causes, for what never existed, but in his disordered imagination. Every person should establish it as a rule, when he hears an assertion, to enquire as to the fact alleged, before he troubles himself to explore the cause of it. By this means, a considerable part of the investigations, which puzzle the human mind, would be avoided.
In a country where the people are generally so well educated, as they are in America, they will not easily be duped by magic tales, or deluded by enthusiastic rhapsodies. No pretender to any special communion with invisible beings, whether they be good or evil, can now draw any number of people into a delusion. Those who advance principles that admit not of some clear and rational explication, cannot expect to propagate them extensively; and those, who sport with hypotheses that appear extravagant, will be called to the bar of demonstration to receive their just sentence. Can we then estimate too highly the advantages of the many schools and universities which are interspersed over the various parts of our country? Can any pains or expences be deemed too great, for rearing up a generation of men who will be proof against the absurdities that have characterized past ages of ignorance and bigotry; and who will have knowledge to understand civil liberty, and spirit to defend it? Are any anticipations, too bold and extravagant, of the attainments that will probably result from a state of society so perfect, as that to which we are hastening? How many of the causes, that occasioned the wretchedness and downfall of antient nations, would have been removed, had they been blessed with the institutions, we now enjoy?
FROM THE SALEM MERCURY.
DECEMBER 1.
THE PRESIDENT of the UNITED STATES, in his late tour through this State, was pleased to honor the town of Marblehead by a short visit. He was received at the entrance of the town, by the Selectmen, the Clergy of the town, and a numerous body of Citizens, and was conducted to the house of Mrs. Lee, where a collation had been provided, of which he very cheerfully partook, with the Gentlemen of his Suite, the Selectmen, clergymen and other Gentlemen of the town.—The President, afterwards, with that attention by which he encourages every useful employment, visited one of the Fish Yards, and expressed his earnest wishes for the success of the industrious people of Marblehead. On this pleasing occasion, the Selectmen, in the name of the Inhabitants, had the honor to present their ADDRESS; of which, with the ANSWER of the President, we insert the following copies, but lately received.
TO GEORGE WASHINGTON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. SIR,
YOUR presence has inspired the Inhabitants of Marblehead with the most unbounded joy; but they cannot express, as they would wish, their grateful sense of the honor done them on this occasion. The two visible decay and poverty of this town must be their excuse, that they have not offered to the illustrious Character who now visits them, a reception more answerable to his dignity, and more expressive of their own veneration.
The Blessings of Independence and a Republican Government must ever excite our gratitude and affection to so eminent a Supporter of the Public Liberty, whose wisdom and valor have so successfully defended the rights of his country. The establishment, by the United States, of a secure and efficient Government, gives us the pleasing expectation of the gradual revival of our Fishery and Commerce—objects of the industry, and principal means of the subsistence, of the Inhabitants of this place, for above a century previous to the late revolution. In the commencement of the contest with Great-Britain, this Town were early in their exertions in the common cause; and were not discouraged, when they foresaw that reverse of their situation, which the war has necessarily produced. The return of peace did not restore to us the former advantages of the Fishery, which hath remained under peculiar discouragements: and we have yet patiently to expect that attention of the General Government, which may remedy these evils, and which the subject may deserve, from its extensive importance to the commerce of the United States.
The present Government of the United States commands our ready submission, and inviolable attachment; and we deem it a peculiar felicity, that the highest dignity of that Government is so properly vested in you; in whom all America reposes the most entire confidence; in whose administration, the world will admire the example of a Patriot-Ruler.
Sir, our anxiety for your health and long life is proportionate to our most ardent wishes for the prosperity of our country; and we are well assured, that you will ever partake in the happiness of that numerous people, over whom you preside. May the Divine Providence continue to favor your care and guidance of their most important public affairs, and reward your virtues, which have been so long employed in promoting the happiness of mankind.
In behalf of the Town of Marblehead, October 29, 1789.
Isaac Mansfield, } Jonathan Glover, } John Glover, } Samuel Sewall, } Samuel Hooper, } Selectmen Nath'l Lindsey, } Burrel Devereux, } Richard Harris, }
To the INHABITANTS of the Town of MARBLEHEAD. GENTLEMEN,
THE reception, with which you have been pleased to honor my arrival in Marblehead, and the sentiments of approbation, and attachment, which you have expressed of my conduct, and to my person, are too flattering and grateful not to be acknowledged with sincere thanks, and answered with unfeigned wishes for your prosperity.
Avoiding to dwell on the diminution of pleasure, which the mention of your impaired circumstances oc-
casions me, I desire to engage your thoughts on the pleasing prospect presented to all our interests, and particularly to our fishery, in the efficiency of our government, and the invigorated industry of our citizens.
Protected in the exercise of those means, which the beneficent Parent of mankind has furnished for their sustenance and comfort, the citizens of America, animated by virtuous enterprize, and actuated by due obedience to the laws and regulations of their government, may expect, with confidence, to enjoy every blessing which industry can promise, and national union may ensure.
Your attachment to the constitution of the United States is worthy of men, who sought and bled for freedom, and who know its value.
Your anxiety for my health, and your prayers for my happiness, are replied to with solicitude for your welfare, and earnest entreaty to the Author of Good for your felicity. G. WASHINGTON.
LONDON.
From WOODFALL'S DIARY.
IN the year 1767, the ships Indian Queen, Duke of York, Nancy, and Concord, of Bristol, the Edgar of Liverpool, and the Canterbury, of London, lay in old Calabar river.
It happened at this time that a quarrel subsisted between the principal inhabitants of Old Town and those of New Town, Old Calabar, which had originated in a jealousy respecting slaves. The Captains of the vessels now mentioned, united in sending several letters to the inhabitants of Old Town, but particularly to Ephraim Robin John, who was at that time a grandee, and a principal inhabitant of the place. The universal tenor of these letters was, that they were sorry that any jealousy or quarrel should subsist between the two parties; that if the inhabitants of Old Town would come on board, they would afford them security and protection; adding, at the same time, that their intention in inviting them was, that they might become mediators, and heal their disputes.
The inhabitants of Old Town, happy to find that their differences were likely to be reconciled, joyfully accepted the invitation. The three brothers of the grandee just mentioned, the eldest of whom was Ambo Robin John, first entered their canoe, attended by twenty-seven others, and being followed by nine canoes, directed their course to the Indian Queen. They were dispatched from thence the next morning to the Edgar, and afterwards to the Duke of York, on board of which they went, leaving their canoe and attendants by the side of the same vessel. In the mean time the people on board the other canoe, were either distributed on board, or lying close to the other ships.
This being the situation of the three brothers, and of the principal inhabitants of the place, the treachery now began to appear. The crew of the Duke of York, aided by the captain and mates, and armed with pistols and cutlasses, rushed into the cabin, with an intent to seize the persons of their three innocent and unsuspicious guests. The unhappy men, alarmed at this flagrant violation of the rights of hospitality, and struck with astonishment at the behavior of their supposed friends, attempted to escape through the cabin windows; but being wounded, were obliged to desist, and to submit to be put in irons.
In the same moment in which this atrocious attempt had been made, an order had been given to fire upon the canoe, that was then lying by the side of the Duke of York. The canoe soon filled and sunk, and the wretched attendants were seized, killed or drowned. Most of the other ships immediately followed the example. Great numbers were additionally killed and drowned on the occasion and others were swimming to the shore.
At this juncture, the inhabitants of New-Town, who had concealed themselves in the bushes by the water-side, and between whom and the commanders of the vessels the plan had been previously concerted, came out from their hiding places, and embarking in their canoes, made for such as were swimming from the fire of the ships. The ships boats also were instantly manned, and joined in the pursuit. They butchered the greatest part of those they caught. Many dead bodies were soon seen upon the sands, and others were floating during the whole of the day upon the water; and including those that were seized and carried off, and those that were drowned and killed, either by the firing of the ships, or the people of New-Town, three hundred were lost to the inhabitants of Old Town on that day.
The carnage, which I have been now describing was scarcely over, when a canoe, full of principal people of New Town, who had been the promoters

of the scheme, dropped alongside of the Duke of York. They demanded the person of Ambæ Robin John, the brother of the grandee of Old Town, and the eldest of the three on board. The unfortunate man put the palms of his hands together, and beseeched the commander of the vessel that he would not violate the rights of hospitality, nor give up an unoffending stranger to his enemies. No intreaties could avail with the hardened Christian. He received from them a slave of the name of Ecang in his stead, and then forced him into the canoe, where his head was immediately struck off in the sight of the crew, and of his afflicted and disconsolate brothers. As for them, they escaped his fate; but they were carried off with their attendants to the European colonies, and sold for slaves.
L O N D O N, OCTOBER 16.
M. Bouche, deputy from Aix, lately declared, that the number of French, who had left their country, exceeded 80,000, and that their subsisting revenue might be stated at 15 or 20 millions.
The scarcity of bread, which threatened a famine at Paris, and was partly supposed to cause the late convulsion at Versailles, immediately ceased, and plenty was proclaimed on the King's arrival at Paris. Ever since that time the citizens have been composed and satisfied respecting the article of corn.
P A R I S, AUGUST 28.
To prevent the scarcity of bread as much as possible, several families of the patriotic party have adopted the plan of eating rice instead of bread, which has been of great service; and premiums have been offered to labourers, as an encouragement for their working double tides, to get in the harvest, and furnish the markets with fresh grain.
There is no doubt but this scarcity is kept up by some secret engines of the court party, enemies to the present revolutions, whose object it is to ferment disturbances under the present system of Government. They have succeeded in several instances, particularly in the frontier towns, where large quantities of grain are daily coming from foreign markets, but are carried off without any one's knowing what becomes of it.
OCTOBER 10. A motion was made in the Assembly on Saturday, for every Member to engage upon his honor not to wear, or to purchase for any purpose, any but French manufactures; and that his Majesty should be immediately petitioned to sanction the resolution. A member cautioned the friends of the motion against the consequences that may ensue from foreign powers coming to a resolution of the same nature. The motion was lost, not withdrawn, amidst violent noise and confusion on all sides.
The invalid non-commissioned officers have been admitted to the National Assembly, with an offering of 4l. 8s. 2d. A Coffee-house boy (Coffe de joy) has presented 1l.
FROM THE DAILY ADVERTISER OF YESTERDAY.
METHOD OF PRESERVING THE BEAUTY OF TEETH.
FROM A LETTER OF DOCTOR MITCHELL, TO ****.
SOME experiments which I have made upon human teeth by calcination and solution, convince me that they contain, particularly in their outer coat, or covering, a large proportion of CALCARIOUS EARTH. This incrustation is screened by the arteries of the teeth, and regularly deposited all around, to defend them from outward accidents. When it is corroded or worn off, and the naked bone exposed to the operation of air, spittle and aliment, the diseased teeth soon corrupt. While it remains unhurt and entire, they generally continue useful and ornamental. But what avails the knowledge of these facts, unless we gain some practical advantage by them? From these facts then, we may learn, that the enamel of the teeth, which is so remote from the influence of blood and nerves as to be nearly allied to inanimate matter, is, like chalk, egg shells and marble, readily acted upon by ACIDS. Whence a sufficient reason appears, why very tart apples occasion, soon after eating them, a sort of soreness or unpleasant sensation in the teeth; why the frequent use of sharp vinegar in pickles and sallads is injurious; why lemon juice and tamarinds are also destructive; why spirit of vitriol is still more ruinous; and why foot and tartar, employed as dentifrices, by the acid they contain, are often productive of irreparable mischief—as likewise why young folks who indulge the pernicious habit of chewing allum, damage their teeth excessively. Hence too we may further learn, that the best way to prevent their decay and loss, is to wash them frequently with PURE WATER, and wipe them clean with a soft towel, and neither chemically corrode them with vegetable and mineral acids, nor mechanically wear them away by scouring with hard and gritty powders.
Does it now seem at all wonderful, as people are accustomed to take so many hurtful substances into their mouths, that the teeth should suffer detriment thereby? Is it not rather a matter of surprise, considering all these things, that many
have any teeth left? And is not your question, "Why are bad teeth so common?" in a good measure answered?—So far therefore, as the present subject extends, the preservation of BEAUTY depends upon a sure and certain principle, easy to be understood and followed. As to that harmony of shape and features in which the remaining part of beauty consists, the pious Mr. Lavater thinks it is inseparably connected with moral excellence; I shall therefore only add in the sentiment of this most able physiognomist, that, the way to be handsome, is to be good.
FOR THE GAZETTE OF THE UNITED STATES.
THE GUEST.—No. VI.
"History is the Resurrection of past ages."
PERMIT me to recommend to my young readers the study of history, as the best, and most useful source of knowledge:—Here the volume of nature is unfolded, whose pages are the records of experience—Here we may learn wisdom of the most durable and important kind—and enjoy the benefit of those rules which result from the trials of virtue, and the misfortunes of folly, at the expence of past ages. History inspires caution, without darkening the mind with prejudice, or suspicion—It teaches us a just estimate of mankind, and abates the awkwardness of surprise and wonder, so natural to the uninformed.
The study of History is at once pleasing and profitable—It does not require intense application—It may be taken up at a moment of leisure, and relinquished as other avocations intervene—and thus may be made a save-all of the scraps of time, none of which should be lost—for, as has been observed, "of all prodigality, that of time is the most shameful."
History elevates the mind to a lofty eminence, from whence we take a perspective view of the transactions of mankind—Of those mighty events and over-ruling providences, which have determined the fate of Kingdoms, States and Empires—and while the actors on the world's great theatre pass in review before us, we are deterred from adopting the habits of infamy, by the general fate of vicious examples—and charmed to a love of virtue, by the glory and happiness which crown the actions of the wise and benevolent.
It is difficult to account for the general sentiment, that History written at the period when the transactions recorded take place, is commonly partial, without stigmatizing human nature; but the observation has too often been verified, to be denied—Fear, favor, and affection, in some form or other, have almost uniformly found means to influence the pens of cotemporary writers:—However universal this opinion may be, it is to be hoped, for the honor and advantage of mankind, that America will, if she has not already, produce Historians who shall intrepidly, and impartially relate, the great events that her intrepid sons have achieved:—The relation of the moment, if false, may be detected; but if time rolls his oblivious waves over the transactions of our country, before they are inscribed on the page of History, many glorious actions will be lost—and many a hero will be robbed of the honors that immortality ought to impress on his memory.
TRUTH, is a short, but comprehensive motto—An Historian should make it his polar Star —rejecting trifles— Extraordinaries , both good and bad, should be faithfully recorded: The truth , told of bad characters, in a well-wrote History, holds them up to everlasting infamy—and makes them serve as beacons to future ages—while it proves the best eulogium on the benefactors of mankind—whose example excites the admiration, and ensures the imitation of the wise and good, while they contemplate the same glorious reward.
To learn the past, and future fate of Man, With critic eye, the page of HIST'RY scan; From facts alone, Wisdom her maxims draws, And traces consequences to their cause: Here Ages to the mind pass in review, And Nature in the justest mirror shew. Happy the youth, whose free, unfetter'd mind, Draws from this source, Truth, simple and refin'd; Who builds on FACTS the system of his creed, And only follows where their dictates lead.
UNITED STATES.
R I C H M O N D, DECEMBER 3.
On Monday the twelve amendments to the Constitution of the United States proposed by Congress were agreed to by the House of Delegates. This circumstance cannot fail of giving general satisfaction to the community at large, since it proves the sincerity of those who were friends to the government, when they declared in the Convention, that they would join its adversaries in their endeavours to procure such as were rational and proper, and would serve to remove the scruples and fears of the conscientious and honest: For the friends to the federal government favored these amendments even more than its adversaries. From hence we may fairly conclude that a general union of sentiment on this great question will shortly take place, and that such other amendments as may claim the attention of Congress upon similar principles will be acceded to by them and us without opposition. The Senate is yet to decide upon the subject before the adoption on the part of this State is complete—but as they too are the Representatives of the people, and no doubt inspired with the same sentiments of patriotism, and wishes to quiet the minds of the doubtful, and apprehensive amongst their fellow-citizens—it would be indelicate and offensive even to suppose that their votes on the subject will be different from that of the House of Delegates.
Our most worthy and illustrious President, by proclamation, was pleased "to recommend to the people of the United States, Thursday the 26th ult. a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed, by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness." On this solemn occasion divine service was performed in the house of delegates, and the Rev. Mr. Blagrove, chaplain to the general assembly, delivered a most excellent discourse to a very respectable and numerous audience.
P H I L A D E L P H I A, DECEMBER 10.
The General Assembly of this commonwealth adjourned yesterday morning, to meet at the State-House in this city on the first Tuesday in February next.
Yesterday forenoon the Convention for altering and amending the Constitution of this State, in a committee of the whole, reported, that the Legislative department should consist of two branches—
That the Executive should be vested in a single person, under proper restrictions—
That the Judges should hold their offices during good behaviour, and be independent as to their salaries, under certain limitations—
That the Supreme Executive Power should have a qualified negative upon the Legislature; and that the Declaration of Rights requires alterations and amendments, so as that the rights reserved from the general powers of government may be more accurately defined and secured.
DECEMBER, 12.
Thursday last the Convention for altering and amending the Constitution of this State took up and considered, separately, the resolutions reported in a committee of the whole on Wednesday.
After which they were adopted, almost unanimously.
The House then agreed to appoint a committee of nine to prepare a draught of the New Constitution; and the resolutions aforesaid are to be instructions to the committee, as far as they extend.
And yesterday the following gentlemen were appointed a committee to prepare a draught of the New Constitution:
William Findley, Edward Hand, Henry Miller, James Wilson, William Irvine, William Lewis, James Ross, Charles Smith, and Alexander Addison, Esquires.
It is with uncommon pleasure we behold at last the extinction of party spirit in Pennsylvania. The candor and liberality of Messrs. M'Kean, Wilson, Lewis, Sitgreaves, and others on the federal, and the accommodation and good sense of Messrs. Findley and M'Clean on the late anti-federal side of the question, have given the highest satisfaction to all classes of attendants on the proceedings of the Convention. Reason has at last recovered her long lost dominion among us, and there is now no doubt but we shall have a wise and energetic government that will please and unite 9-10ths of our citizens. Heaven bless the wise and enlightened men that first planned a Convention for altering our Constitution, and thereby saved us from the anarchy and folly of a Council of Censors! Too much praise cannot be given likewise to the venerable old republican party, who under immense torrents of scandal have persevered, and at length peaceably effected, (and even with the consent of their enemies) a change in our government. Among the new speakers in the Convention who have attracted the attention of the public are Messrs. Addison of Washington and Sitgreaves of Northampton counties. The first discovers reading and learning.

in all his speeches. The last is eloquent, close, and pointed in all his observations. If this young gentleman proceeds as he has begun, he must one day rise to great eminence in political life.
NEW-YORK, DECEMBER 19.
On Tuesday Evening the exhibitions at the Theatre, were closed with the HEIRESS—the MISER, and DARBY'S RETURN; after which Mrs. HENRY spoke the following farewell Epilogue.
FOR THE GAZETTE OF THE UNITED STATES.
EPILOGUE.
Spoken by Mrs. HENRY, at the THEATRE, on Tuesday Evening.
[Written by the author of "AMERICAN SHANDYISM."]
GOOD truth! that they should ever pitch on me, The Company's Ambassadress to be, I who so oft appear with face of woe, Am sent, their cheerful gratitude to show. "Now had they wish'd to send some mournful phiz, To deprecate your wrath, and stop a hiss— "Or had some author who in doleful dumps, Trembled for fear his cards should not prove trumps, "In Green Room quaking, like some half-drown'd whelp, "In piteous tone, half dead, demanded help; "Then should I, in my element have been, And swept the boards like any tragic Queen— "Have knit my brows, and told my whining deity, "Such faces made, as must have mov'd your pity. "But now I shall not do my duty half, "I'm one of those who scarce know how to laugh; "Tho', for the soul of me, I can't conceive, "How any reason I can find to grieve: Good benefits in spite of our demerits, Have given us all, a mighty flow of spirits; And tho' I am not equal to my part, 'Tis not because of an ungrateful heart; I feel the favors we each night receive, And shall be thankful long as I may live.— Not I alone—I represent them all— And for the task, indeed I am too small, For boundless gratitude we sure must feel, Whilst without bounds your favors thus you deal. [In distress, and looking for the Prompter.]
Oh dear—I'm out—what's next—speak, Mr. GAY, Oh dear—he's gone—and I have nought to say— [Somebody behind the Curtain.]
Something about the Stage—
[Mrs. HENRY.] Aye, aye, the stage—
That must improve, in this improving age. When Greece was free, and Athens "bore the bell," The Stage was Virtue's School, as authors tell, There from the boards, just sentiment and truth, By age applauded, form'd the minds of youth: With LIBERTY, the Muses love to dwell— And Liberty gains ground, Newspapers tell. What think ye? May not Truth flash'd from the Stage, Help to keep up this truly glorious rage? Perhaps some Politician there in front, Cries, "Mrs. HENRY, what do you think on't? Why troth, Sir, if I must give my opinion, As men gain knowledge—freedom gains dominion; For, as I heard my dear good husband say, (As we were coming to rehearse to day,) "That man, who knows the rights which nature gave, And is not free, deserves to be a slave." Now from the Stage, may not those rights be shown, And all Man's privileges truly known? They may! and under guidance of your taste, Each day our scenes improve, and grow more chaste; While thus encourag'd, ardently we'll strive, And do our best to keep the flame alive: The glorious flame! whose first unsteady blaze, Will soon be fix'd as Sol's all cheering rays; Dart thro' the wide expanse, illumine mankind, E'en Asia's Sons no longer shall be blind, But join the one great cause of LIBERTY; Whilst the world's voice cries "GREATLY DARE BE FREE." But 'midst this joy, what mean those dismal groans? Ah! sure, they come from Afric's sable Sons! Oh let not truth offend! wipe out the stain! Shall Freedom's Sons on others put the chain! Detected thought! soon may we hope to see, Columbia, Europe, Asia, Afric, FREE, One Genius reign through all—ETERNAL LIBERTY. } And now, alas! we come to taking leave— Cheer'd with applause, we know not how to grieve; Love, duty, sorrow, fill our hearts in turn, But above all, with gratitude they burn; During our absence we will strive to prove, The worthy objects of your future love.
NOTE.
The lines marked with inverted Comma's, were omitted by Mrs. HENRY.
THE NATIONAL MONITOR.
No. XXXI.
The Child, whom many Fathers share, Hath seldom known a Father's care.
GAY.
THE assumption of the State Debts, by the General Government, appears more and more interesting: It is hardly possible to conceive how the peace and tranquility of the Union can be preserved, and justice done to every denomination of our domestic creditors, upon any other plan. The idea of the individual governments making adequate provision to pay the interest of their particular debts, must prove illusory—for if, when they were in possession of all their respective funds, it was considered as an oppressive measure, to make competent assessments and appropriations for this purpose, the plea of incapacity applies with additional force, as things are now circumstanced.
It may be expected that this just, and politic measure, will meet with opposition—and it is to be feared, that those who have been advocates for this assumption, may have impressions made upon
their minds, different from those that have hitherto actuated them, upon a presumption that the States will fund their debts on Excises and dry Taxes. A few reflections will serve, however, to shew, that this dependence must fail them: From long experience, the creditors of the State Governments must be convinced, that their hopes of future justice in the line they have been in, rest on a very slender basis—They must suppose that the willingness of the States to pay in future, will receive strength from the diminution of their ability—and that their desire to give satisfaction to their creditors will call forth resources superior to those now vested in the General Government. This is so improbable, that it requires a stretch of credulity to countenance the supposition. But if it should be granted, that through the influence of a temporary jealousy of the General Government, some of the States may make extra exertions to fund their debts, it is evident that the complex system which would grow out of the measure, must occasion prodigious loss both to the States' and Continental treasuries—and in a very short time the people would consider themselves as ground between the upper and nether millstone:—Such a situation would issue in the total defeat of the hopes founded on State-Financiering. The same funds placed under one set of directors, would probably pay much more, than if divided under two—but if in the hands of twelve or thirteen different bodies, all acting independently of each other—the losses and deficiencies will not be perhaps less than 50 pr. cent. In short the State creditors, by diverting their hopes from the State government, will eventually realize their demands; they may suffer a temporary suspension in their receipts, and that is all.—On the other hand, they may be amused by a prospect nearer home, but it will vanish at last, and leave them no other resort, than that which now presents, and which they will then see, they might have availed themselves of much sooner, with greater facility, and more to their advantage. The operation of one general plan of taxation, in conjunction with twelve or thirteen rival systems, must be attended with inexplicable difficulties.—The expence of distinct sets of officers—the temptations to frauds by different rates of duties—the difficulty of securing the collection upon several thousand miles of frontier, the incapacity of the States to meddle with goods when imported, and so to check frauds, that power being now in Congress, and many other reasons, all combine to shew the absurdity of different and clashing powers being exerted to effect that, which ought to be one business.
NEW-YORK, DECEMBER 19.
We are still in the dark as to the issue of the late commotions at Versailles; and this uncertainty is further increased by the contradictory accounts of the origin of these commotions. If the King seriously meditated a design of quitting Versailles and the National Assembly in order to join his army, it is probable some system was formed, and that, movements among the exiled Princes may be the consequence, of which it remains that accounts be received. If the whole affair arose from a bacchanalian faux pas, it may serve to suggest a useful hint to the National Assembly: viz. to quicken their diligence in perfecting the new Constitution, since there is no calculating the variableness of the popular opinion.
Extract of a letter from North-Carolina, Dec. 2, 1789.
The only news I have to write you is that the Convention of this State, contrary to general expectation has ratified the Constitution—and that our Grand Master, the late Governor CASWELL is dead.
On Tuesday the first inst. the Judicial Court for the district of Maine, (Massachusetts) was opened in the town of Portland, before the Honorable Judge Sewell. The Oaths where then administered to the Attorney-General, Marshal, and Clerk, and the Court adjourned.
By late accounts from Charleston, S. C. it appears, that all the public offices in that city have been removed to Columbia, the new seat of government. This measure may possibly be productive of advantage to the State; but in the infancy of our country, it certainly appears hostile to the great interest of the whole, to discourage the capital settlements upon the sea coast. In this view the probability is, that after incurring very great expence,
the landed interest will feel the necessity of again removing the seat of government, and fixing it in its original situation. The spirit of freedom first appeared in our capital sea ports; from thence spread into the interior country. Our capitals are the seats of the arts, the Emporiums of trade, the deposits, and resources of our wealth; and every measure that contributes to their increase and importance, most essentially contribute to the general interest.
The funding of the State debts by the respective governments will be a measure fraught with mischievous consequences. There will be excises upon the impost, and perhaps excise against excise, confusion on confusion—trade will be embarrassed; manufactures, protected by the impost, will be faddled in the consuming States with excises; a contest for power and revenue will ensue, to the reviving of bitter animosities, and the destruction of public credit. These ideas strongly suggest the propriety of placing the National and State debts upon one and the same footing: The same principle of justice pleads for the former that does for the latter.
The State creditors, provided they are left to depend on the particular governments, will become interested to diminish the National revenue, in order to brighten their own prospects. But it must be remembered, that they will, at the same time, be divided into twelve or thirteen different bodies, that never did, and never can act conjointly in a business of this kind; while the general Government, having one system pervading the whole Union, must act to more certain effect. The State creditors, therefore, detached from the continental, must be sufferers; but united with them, and having the concentrated funds of the United States to depend on, their fate is involved, not in the fluctuating councils of a particular State, but in the fate of the whole Continent.
Provided our national credit was established in such manner as to bring the public securities to a fixed and certain value, what relief would trade, manufactures, and agriculture derive from a permanent influx of circulating medium! This desirable event does not materially depend on the rate of interest, but on the certainty of the quantum which government can, and will pay. This point settled, the value of public paper will be ascertained, and no future fluctuations of any consequence will ensue. This consideration, among thousands of others that might be mentioned, points out the absolute necessity that something should be done immediately.
The inequality of circumstances which prevails among mankind, may be traced to a variety of causes. Accident has no small share in producing this disparity. But of all the causes that may be adduced, there is none to be compared to those which arise from the means of education: For tho' we often see the sons of genius and learning, in want and indigence; yet in a free country, where the avenues to honor and emolument are open to all, we shall find that by far the majority, owe their eligible circumstances to their early advantages of education: So that one capital source of envy, which is a greater disturber of human happiness than many are apt to imagine, may very easily be removed by making suitable public provision for disseminating knowledge among all classes of the people.
There is a natural propensity in mankind to reduce all to one common level. Dean Swift's observation is therefore founded on a just acquaintance with human nature, when he says,
Your altitude offends the eyes Of those who want the pow'r to rise.
For tho' it must be acknowledged, that elevated circumstances often induce and are connected with a domineering disposition, yet the desire to rise, is as universal as existence; and the preservation of personal possessions is a right that cannot be monopolized or usurped, without violating, the principles of liberty. As the wheel of human affairs is in perpetual rotation, the poor should remember that they, or their posterity, may become interested in a sacred regard to the rights of property and its consequent distinctions.
The study of geography is universally approved, and very generally introduced into our seminaries of learning; with this branch of education, history appears to be very naturally connected; and if added to the circle of studies, as it might be with great ease, even in our most inferior schools, it would prove a source of very valuable improvement.
ARRIVALS.—NEW-YORK.
 Wednesday, Ship Willson, McEvers, Liverpool, 67 days.  Brig Olive Branch, Lawrance, St. Martins, 20 days.  Brig Lively, Williamson, Cayenne, 24 days.  Brig Amboy, Dykes, Cape-Francois.  Brig Loveretta, Siftare, St. Domingo, 36 days.  Sloop Nancy, Price, Philadelphia, 5 days.  Sloop Sally, Miller, Trinidad, 28 days.  Sloop Aurora, Caboon, Rhode-Island, 3 days.  Sloop Lady Green, Godfrey, Rhode-Island, 3 days.  Thursday, Ship Betty, Denton, St. Thomas, 28 days.  Brig Sncefs, Burke, Nevis.  Schooner Rebecca, Ryan, Wilmington, 6 days.  Schooner Lively, Major, Kingston, Jam. 26 days.  Schooner Rover, Gardner, Shelburne, 17 days.  Friday, Sloop Three Friends, Clason, St. Johns, 21 days.  Sloop Brandy, Mansfield, Cape Francois, 13 days. 

MR. ADAMS'S LETTERS.
LETTER XXIII.
AMSTERDAM, OCT. 27, 1780.
SIR,
QUESTION twenty-fifth.—“Do they who have lost their possessions or fortunes by the war, endure it patiently, as com-patriots, so that nothing can be feared from them?”
Losing fortunes in America has not such dreadful consequences, to individuals or families, as it has in Europe. The reason is obvious; because the means of subsistence are easier to be obtained, so that nobody suffers for want. As far as I am acquainted with sufferers, they have borne their losses, both of poverty, and relations, with great fortitude; and, so far from producing in their minds a desire of submission, they have only served to irritate them,—to convince them more fully of the precarious and deplorable situation they would be in under the government of the English, and to make them more eager to resist it.
Question twenty-sixth.—How has it gone with “the cultivation of the land, before the troubles, at their commencement, and at present? What change has taken place?”
Agriculture ever was, and ever will be, the dominant interest in America. Nevertheless, before this war, perhaps, she run more into commerce than was for her interest. She depended too much, perhaps, upon importations for cloathing, utensils, &c. and indulged in too many luxuries. When the prospect opened in 1775, of an interruption of her commerce, she applied herself more to agriculture; and many places that depended upon the lumber trade, the fishery, &c. for the importation of even their bread, have turned their labor and attention to raising corn, wool, flax and cattle, and have lived better, and advanced in wealth and independence faster than ever they did. For example, the towns in the neighborhood of the sea, in the Massachusetts Bay, used to depend upon the fishery and commerce, to import them their wheat and flour from Philadelphia, Maryland, and Virginia, and rice from South-Carolina and Georgia: The communication being interrupted by sea, since the war, they have planted their own corn.
The eastern parts of the Massachusetts Bay, before the war, depended on the commerce of lumber for the West-India market, and of masts, yards, and bowsprits, for the royal navy of Great Britain, to procure them cloaths, meat, and strong liquors. Since the war, they have cultivated their lands, raised their own corn, wool, flax; and planted the apple tree, instead of drinking rum: In consequence of which they are more temperate, wealthy, and independent than ever.
North-Carolina depended upon the commerce of pitch, tar and turpentine, and tobacco, for the importation of many things. Since the war, they have turned their labor to raise more of the things which they wanted.
Maryland, Virginia, and North-Carolina, depended upon the trade of tobacco to import coarse cloths for their negroes. Since the war, they have raised less tobacco, and more wheat, wool, and cotton, and made the coarse cloths themselves.
So that, upon the whole, the lessening of commerce, and the increase of agriculture, has rendered America more independent than she ever was. I have the honor to be, &c.
JOHN ADAMS.
MR. CALKOEN.
ANECDOE.
LORD LYTTLETON, upon inviting his Son to pass the evening with him, received for answer, he was engaged to pass the evening with ten or a dozen friends. Whereupon his Lordship, grown old in the knowledge of the world, replied, “I am glad to hear, George, you are so very fortunate. Having made the best search I could for three score years, I can hardly say it has been my fate to meet one friend; and you, it seems, find them already by dozens.”
LONDON.
EXTRACTS.
From a POEM on the Bill lately passed for regulating the Slave Trade.
By Miss HELEN MARIA WILLIAMS.
From the MONTHLY REVIEW, for March, 1780.
THE accounts lately given, say the Reviewers, to the public, respecting the Slave Trade, were horrid enough to call into vigorous exercise the amiable sensibility of the female breast. By the ladies this subject has been contemplated through the pure medium of virtuous pity, unmixed with those political, commercial, selfish considerations which operated in steeling the hearts of some men against the pleadings of humanity! To find THEM, therefore, writing on it, by no means excited wonder.—Though among the last, Miss Williams is not the least deserving notice. In easy, harmonious verse she pours forth the sentiments
of her mind; nor do we recollect among the poems that have lately attracted our attention, to have perused one with more pleasure than that which now lies before us.
She thus addresses her country on the subject of her poem:
BRITAIN! the noble, blest decree That foeth despair, is fram'd by thee! Thy powerful arm has interpos'd; And one dire scene forever clos'd; Its horror shall no more belong To that foul drama, deep with wrong. O, first of EUROPE's polish'd lands, To ease the captive's iron bands! Long as thy glorious annals shine, This proud distinction shall be thine: Not first alone when valor leads To rush on danger's noblest deeds; When mercy calls thee to explore A gloomy path untrod before, Thy ardent spirit springs to heal! And, greatly gen'rous, dares to feel! Valor is like the meteor's light, Whose partial flash leaves deeper night; While mercy, like the lunar ray, Gilds the thick shade with softer day.
The last lines of this extract lead us to observe, that our poetess is peculiarly happy in the choice and application of her similes:
The traders in slaves are described as beings,
Whose harden'd souls no more retain Impressions nature stamp'd in vain; All that distinguishes their kind; For ever blotted from their mind: As streams that once the landscape gave, Reflected on the trembling wave, Their substance change, when lock'd in frost, And rest, in dead contraction lost; Who view unmov'd, the look, that tells The pang that in the bosom dwells.
The picture that follows, of the wretched Negro just landed in the West-Indies, and sold, is extremely natural:
When borne at length to western lands, Chain'd on the beach the captive stands, Where man, dire merchandize, is sold, And barter'd life is paid for gold; In mute affliction, see him try To read his new possessor's eye; If one blest glance of mercy there, One half-form'd tear may check despair!
What is said of avarice must not be here omitted:
His sway the harden'd bosom leads To cruelty's remorseless deeds; Like the blue lightning when it springs With fury on its livid wings, Darts to its goal with baleful force, Nor heeds that ruin marks its course.
PROCEEDINGS OF CONGRESS.
ABSTRACT OF JOURNAL of the FIRST SESSION of the SENATE of the UNITED STATES.
SATURDAY, July 18.
ON motion to strike out of line 13th these words, “To be appointed by the said principal officer,” passed in the negative. Agreed to expunge the proviso in lines 17th, 18th, and 19th, to wit:
“Provided nevertheless, That no appointment of such chief clerk shall be valid, until the same shall have been approved by the President of the United States.”
Upon the question, “To concur in this bill as amended?” and one fifth of the Senators present requiring the yeas and nays, the determination was as follows:
YEAS. Mr. Basset, Mr. Carroll, Mr. Dalton, Mr. Ellsworth, Mr. Elmer, Mr. Henry, Mr. Morris, Mr. Patterson, Mr. Read, Mr. Strong.
NAYS. Mr. Few, Mr. Grayson, Mr. Gunn, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Izard, Mr. Langdon, Mr. Lee, Mr. Maclay, Mr. Wingate. So the bill was concurred with amendments.
MONDAY, July 20.
Agreeably to the order of the day, proceeded to the second reading of the bill, entitled, “An act to regulate the collection of the duties imposed by law on the tonnage of ships or vessels, and on goods, wares and merchandise imported into the United States.”
And after debate it was committed to Mr. Morris, Mr. Langdon, Mr. Carroll, Mr. Dalton, and Mr. Lee, to report such additions and alterations as they may judge requisite.
A message from the House of Representatives.
Mr. President, The House of Representatives have passed a bill, entitled, “An act for the establishment and support of light-houses, beacons, and buoys.” They have concurred in the amendments proposed by the Senate to a bill, entitled, “An act for establishing an Executive Department, to be denominated the Department of Foreign Affairs.” And they have received from the President of the United States an enrolled bill, entitled, “An act imposing duties on tonnage,” with his signature affixed thereto. Adjourned.
TUESDAY, July 21.
A message from the House of Representatives, with a bill, entitled, “An act to provide for the government of the territory north-west of the river Ohio;” which was read a first time.
THURSDAY, July 23.
The bill, entitled, “An act for the establishment and support of light-houses, beacons, and buoys,” was read a second time, and committed to Mr. Morris, Mr. Langdon, and Mr. Dalton.
On the question, whether the clauses in the bill, entitled, “An act to regulate the collection of the duties imposed by law on the tonnage of ships or vessels, and on goods, wares, and merchandise imported into the United States,” providing, “That oaths shall be administered to the master, or other persons having the charge or command of any ship or vessel,” shall be expunged, and the words “And the owner and master's declaration, with penalties for false entry,” be substituted? Passed in the negative. Adjourned.
SATURDAY, July 25.
The honorable Rufus King, from the State of New-York, appeared, produced his credentials and took his seat; and the oath was administered to him according to law.
MONDAY, July 27.
The honorable Philip Schuyler, from the State of New-York, appeared, produced his credentials and took his seat; and the oath was administered to him according to law.
Mr. Patterson had leave of absence for four days.
A message from the House of Representatives, with a bill, entitled, “An act for settling the accounts between the United States and individual States,” for concurrence; and informed the Senate, that the President of the United States had affixed his signature to a bill, entitled, “An act for the establishment of an Executive Department, to be denominated the department of Foreign Affairs,” and had returned the same to the House of Representatives.
The first mentioned bill was read a first time.
Proceeded to the third reading of a bill, entitled, “An act to regulate the collection of the duties imposed by law, on the tonnage of ships or vessels, and on goods, wares and merchandise imported into the United States;”
And resolved that the Senate do concur therein with amendments.
TUESDAY, July 28.
Mr. Johnson, in behalf of the committee appointed the 31st of May, reported a bill, entitled, “An act for the punishment of certain crimes against the United States;” which was read a first time.
The Secretary carried to the House of Representatives, the bill entitled, “An act to regulate the collection of the duties imposed by law on the tonnage of ships or vessels, and on goods, wares and merchandise imported into the United States.”
On motion, the Senators from the State of New-York proceeded to draw lots for their classes, in conformity to the resolve of the 14th of May: And two lots, No 3 and a blank, being by the Secretary rolled up, and put into a box, Mr. Schuyler drew blank, and Mr. King having drawn No. 3, his seat shall accordingly be vacated in the Senate at the expiration of the sixth year.
The Secretary proceeded to put two other lots into the box marked No. 1, and No. 2; and Mr. Schuyler having drawn No. 1, his seat shall accordingly be vacated in the Senate, at the expiration of the second year.
A message from the House of Representatives.
Mr. President,
The House of Representatives have considered the amendments proposed by the Senate upon the bill, entitled, “An act to regulate the collection of the duties imposed by law on the tonnage of ships or vessels, and on goods, wares and merchandise imported into the United States,” and concurred therein. Adjourned.
ADVERTISEMENT.
EXTRACTS FROM THE JOURNAL OF THE OHIO COMPANY.
WHEREAS, in the opinion of the Agents, it is very much for the interest of the proprietors at large, that all the lands of the purchase should be divided and allotted as immediately as may be—And in order to accommodate them generally, by the option of classing as they may think proper, and drawing their rights or shares (where they may possess more than one) either together in contiguity, or by detaching, and annexing them to distinct classes or divisions (at their own election) to give them the greater chance for variety in soil and situation—It is unanimously resolved, That as soon as the exploring committee shall have appropriated the lands for donation settlements, in quantity sufficient for all the proprietors, WINTHROP SARGENT, JOSEPH GILLMAN, and RETURN J. MEIGS, Esquires, who are hereby appointed a committee for that purpose, shall immediately make out, upon a large scale, a complete map or plan of the whole purchase from the best information, which they may be then able to obtain, expressing all the lands of the eight acre, three acre, city lots and commons, one hundred and sixty acre, and donation lots, the reserved lots of Congress, school lots, and lots appropriated for religious purposes—also, the two townships given by Congress for an university, and the towns or situations for towns to be reserved by the company for a future allotment.—That, all the residuary lands shall be, by them, the said committee of three, divided and numbered upon paper, into forty equal grand divisions of twenty-five shares each, as like in quality as may be: That each grand division be divided into five sub-divisions of five shares each, and each sub-division into sections of single shares:—That as soon as the map or plan is completed, the agents will form or class their subscribers (who shall not previously class themselves) by sections or single shares, into sub-divisions of five, and grand divisions of twenty-five, and immediately proceed to drawing by lot for said lands; by grand divisions, sub-divisions and sections: That in all draughts of sub-divisions (into sections) which may be made up of proprietors holding four, three, or two and single shares, it shall be the usage for the greatest proprietor, or holder of the greatest number of shares, to take his lands in contiguity, by lot, either in the southern or northern part of the sub-division, where they shall be numbered from north to south, and in the western or eastern (by lot also) where they may be numbered from west to east; and where sub-divisions may be made up of two proprietors of two shares each, and one of one share, the two greatest proprietors shall receive their sections, by lot, either in the southern or western part of the sub-division. Resolved, That the before named committee, be directed to prepare the names and numbers, and make all the necessary arrangements for the intended draught: That previous to the drawing for this ultimate grand division of lands, there shall be returns of the proprietors, as they may be classed by the agents (or otherwise) lodged in the Secretary's office, and it is recommended in all cases to consult the inclinations and interests of the proprietors in the order of classing.
Resolved, That the agents will give public notice of the time and place of drawing, and that there be two persons so ways interested in the draughts, who shall be sworn to the faithfully drawing out the names and numbers from the boxes, and who alone shall be employed in this business for the draught of grand divisions, sub-divisions, and sections.
Resolved, That the Secretary cause the foregoing resolutions to be published in the newspapers of New-York, and the New-England States; to the end that the proprietors at large may have the option of classing themselves as they may think proper: And they are hereby requested so to do, and to express themselves upon this subject, either to their respective agents, or by information in writing addressed to, and to be lodged with the Secretary, at his office in the city of Marietta, previous to the first Monday of March, 1790—Upon which day it is expected the division will take place.
WINTHROP SARGENT,
Secretary to the Ohio Company.
Marietta, 3d November, 1789.
ADVERTISEMENT.
THE Gazette of the United States circulates in every part of the Union—being honored by subscribers in Georgia, South and North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, New-York, Connecticut, Rhode-Island, Massachusetts, New-Hampshire, and District of Maine, Canada, Europe, and the West Indies. This extensive circulation renders it a proper vehicle for ADVERTISEMENTS of a general, commercial and governmental import:—By the particular desire and advice, therefore, of a number of its patrons, this paper will be open for the reception of advertisements of the above description; which as they will convey intelligence of an interesting nature, the Editor hopes their insertion will meet the approbation of his friends in general. Should the number at any time amount to more than a page in the Gazette, they will be given in a Supplement.
JOHN FENNO.
New-York, Nov. 28, 1789.
Published by JOHN FENNO, No. 9, MAIDEN-LANE, near the Oswego-Market, NEW-YORK.—[3dol. pr. an.]