The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1801-04-10 00:00:00

The National Intelligencer,
AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. I. WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, NEW-JERSEY AVENUE, NEAR THE CAPITOL. No. LXXIX.
FIVE DOLLS. PER ANN.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10th, 1801.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
FOREIGN INTELLIGENCE.
NORTHERN CONFEDERACY.
Copenhagen, Feb. 7.
On the 15th of January Lord Grenville presented to the Danish and Swedish Ambassadors, the following note respecting the embargo laid on the Danish and Swedish vessels:
The undersigned, principal Secretary of State for foreign Affairs, has been commanded by his majesty to make the following communication to count Von Wedel Jarlsberg, and baron Von Ehrenwald, Danish and Swedish Envoys at this court.
His majesty has heard with the sincerest concern, that at the moment when the court of Peterburgh had adopted the most hostile measures against the persons and property of his majesty's subjects, the two courts of Copenhagen and Stockholm had concluded a convention with that power for the maintenance of a naval armed confederation in the north of Europe. If the circumstances under which the convention alluded to was negotiated and concluded, could have left any doubt in his majesty's mind respecting the objects to which it is directed, that doubt would, by the declarations of the court of Peterburgh, and still farther by the recent and official declarations of the court of Copenhagen, have been completely removed. It is sufficiently known with what hostile intentions an attempt was made in the year 1780, to introduce a new code of public law against Great Britain, and to support by force a system of innovation prejudicial to the dearest rights of the British empire. But his majesty has hitherto had the satisfaction to see that those arbitrary and injurious measures have been completely given up. At the beginning of the present war, the court of Peterburgh, which has taken a most active part in the establishment of the former alliance, entered into articles with his majesty which are not merely incompatible with the convention of 1780, but which are directly in the face of it, engagements which are still in force, and the reciprocal execution of which his majesty is entitled to demand upon every principle of good faith, during the continuance of the war. The conduct of his majesty towards the other powers of the Baltic, and all the decisions of his courts of justice in regard to prizes, have been uniformly, and notoriously, founded upon those principles which previously to the year 1780, had guided all other European courts of Admiralty. Nor had the intention to renew the former confederacy been communicated to his majesty on the part of any of the contracting powers, till he received information of the actual signing of the convention, and had been apprised by the declaration of one of the parties, that the object of it was to confirm the stipulations entered into in the years 1780, and 1781, in their original shape. No farther doubts therefore can remain, that the object of their confederacy, and the naval preparations which the contracting parties pursue with vigour, is nothing less than to place themselves in a situation to maintain by force, pretensions which are so obviously inconsistent with the principles of justice, that those powers which when neutral brought them forward, were the first to oppose them when they became belligerent, and the establishment of which, if it should be effected, would be one of the principal means of overthrowing the strength and security of the British empire. On the knowledge of these circumstances, his majesty, the king, should act contrary to the interest of his people, the dignity of his crown, and the honour of his flag, (which by the discipline, courage, and skill of his navy, has risen to so extraordinary a pitch of greatness) were he to delay the adoption of the most effectual measures to repel the attack he has already experienced, and to oppose the hostile effects of the confederacy armed against him. His majesty has therefore authorized the undersigned officially to communicate to count Wedel Jarlsberg and Baron Von Ehren-
wald, that an embargo has been laid upon all the Danish and Swedish ships in the ports belonging to his majesty. But in the execution of this measure his majesty will take care that no violent or severe proceedings shall be exercised on the part of his majesty towards innocent individuals. His majesty is still animated by the most anxious desire that the circumstances which have rendered these steps necessary may cease, and that he may be enabled to return to those relations with the courts of Stockholm and Copenhagen, which existed between them, till that mutual good understanding was interrupted by the present attempts to renew former pretensions.
(Signed) GRENVILLE.
Answer of the Danish Ambassador.
The undersigned, envoy extraordinary from his Danish majesty, will transmit this day with regret to his court the official communication he had the honor to receive yesterday from Lord Grenville, upon the subject of the embargo laid upon the Danish vessels in the British ports.
While he waits until the orders of the king his master, relative to this offensive measure, arrive, he cannot avoid protesting against the validity of the motives alleged in the said note, and against the justice of the consequences, which the British government has conceived it could accredit against the court of Copenhagen.
A difference which arose between the courts of Peterburgh and London during the negotiation, destined solely to the protection of a perfect neutrality in the north, has no relation whatever with that; and as his imperial majesty of all the Russias has caused to be published a formal declaration on the subject of the motives of the measures adopted on his part, Denmark finds in it a complete refutation of the argument advanced by the British minister.
With respect to the principles of the Northern Powers respecting the sacred rights of neutrality, they have not been abandoned. Russia, in her belligerent quality, has only suspended the application, and Denmark and Sweden have, by their convention of the 27th March, 1794, (officially communicated to all the belligerent powers) declared in the face of all Europe, that their system of protection in favor of innocent commerce was inviolable.
Hence it follows that his Danish majesty only now renews ties which have not ceased to exist. The undersigned thinks himself, in consequence, authorized to protest formally, against proceedings of so hostile a nature, which the king, his master, could not but have considered as an open and premeditated provocation, had not the communication been accompanied with the assurance that his Britannic majesty still desires to maintain good harmony with Denmark; a desire which his Danish majesty has constantly professed, and of which he has given the most unequivocal proofs.
The undersigned, who for a number of years has felicitated himself upon being the interpreter of the unalterable sentiments of the king his master, is deeply hurt that false impressions have just menaced the good understanding between the two crowns. He wishes that he could still be the instrument of an explanation calculated to do away injurious doubts, and to prevent incalculable consequences to the interests of the reciprocal powers.
It is with these sentiments, and with those of perfect consideration, that he has the honor to renew to his excellency Lord Grenville the homage of his respect.
(Signed) WEDEL JARLSBERG.
PARIS, Feb. 10.
A Journal has announced a project more vast than any we have hitherto heard mentioned—A project which, if realised, must change the whole political face of the universe. It is said, it is in contemplation to establish the seat of the Russian empire at Constantinople, under the name of the Greek Empire, and that this is to be done with the concurrence of the French; who will afterwards, in concert with the Russian,
traverse Asia, and destroy the English empire in India.— Spectator du Nord.
It is more than a month since this plan was imparted to us, but it appeared so romantic that we did not think it proper to repeat it; since, however it has been brought forward in respectable journals, we think it proper to mention it, though it were only pro-memoria .— Publiciste.
PARIS, February 25.
The British government, as has been already announced, continues to make war against miserable fishermen. The order which it had given to respect them has been revoked; and this violent determination, which wounds the rights of people, it has wantonly aggravated by not communicating it to citizen Otto till ten days after, merely to have the odious and barbarous ability to fall unawares on poor fishermen, and to capture them, in contempt of the practice of civilized nations.
This conduct has decided that of the French government, and the minister for foreign affairs accordingly wrote on the 16th to citizen Otto the following letter:
"Citizen, the First Consul having considered your note of the 10th Pluviôse (Jan. 31) and of the papers inclosed, charges me to acquaint you that you are to quit London and return to France.
"On returning you will address to the British government a note to the following effect:
"The undersigned having communicated to his government the declaration of the British ministry, that fishing boats will be captured as well as all other enemy's vessels—a declaration which has already been acted upon; the First Consul has considered, that if on the one hand this act of the British government, contrary to the invariable usage of civilized nations, and to the common right which guides them, even in time of war, should give to the one now waging a character of obstinacy and fury which would destroy the very relations of custom in a loyal war; on the other, it is impossible not to perceive that this conduct of the English government only tends further to exasperate the two nations, and to retard the period of peace; that in consequence the undersigned can no longer remain in a country where not only every disposition to peace is abjured, but where the laws and usage of war are not understood and violated.
"The undersigned has therefore received orders to quit England, where his stay is in every respect useless; and he is at the same time charged to declare, that the French government having always had for its first desire the contributing to the general pacification, and for its maxim the alleviating as much as possible the misfortunes of war, cannot, on its side think of rendering miserable fishermen victims of the prolongation of hostilities; that it will abstain from reprisals; and that it has ordered, that the French ships shall continue to leave fishing vessels unmolested.
(Signed)
CH. M. TALLEYRAND.
A letter from Nantes, dated the 20th, notices the arrival and departure of 71 of the persons who are to be transported—39 were sent on board the corvette La Fleche, and the remaining 32 on board La Chiffonne, a new frigate of 50 guns. Sixty-nine more are expected, one of the first party has been set at liberty.
LONDON, Feb. 12.
The Hamburg mail due this morning arrived in course. We find from both mails that no change has taken place in the dispositions of the emperor Paul, and his hostility to this country is as decided as ever. The professed objects of the northern confederacy are stated, in a letter from Stockholm, of the 27th, to be contained in the following articles of the treaty:
1. The subsisting treaties relative to contraband goods, between the contracting powers and other governments, shall be maintained; but for the future it shall be established as the basis of every treaty of commerce, that neutral flags make neutral cargoes.
2. The guaranty of the commander of a ship of war shall, for the future, protect
the merchant vessels sailing under convoy, from all search by the ships of war of the belligerent powers.
3. The strictest measures shall be adopted, and tribunals established, to prevent any prohibited and contraband commerce from being carried on under the protection of this armed neutrality.
Among the means by which the emperor of Russia is to pursue his plans of injuring this country, it is stated, that the treaty of peace, supposed to be concluded at Luneville between the emperor of Germany and the French republic, contains a stipulation, that Paul shall be permitted to march 60,000 men through Hungary, to assist the French in their designs upon India—Such is the intelligence from Ratisbon. The naval preparations of the Russian emperor are stated in the Peterburgh article, to be considerable.
The Hamburg letters assert, that the Prussian government has remonstrated against the embargo laid by Great Britain on the Danish and Swedish ships. The court of Copenhagen is stated not to despair of a reconciliation with England.
February 13.
The gentlemen who propose to offer terms for the loan waited, by appointment, upon Mr. Pitt last night. The parties who have made out lists are—
Smith, Payne & Co. Robarts & Co. Sir F. Baring, Mark Sprot & Co. The Bankers, Newnham, Everett & Co.
Mr. Pitt said, that he should want twenty-five millions for England, and two millions three hundred thousand pounds for Ireland. The latter sum might either be contracted for separately or not, or the greater part of it might be raised in Ireland. Mr. Pitt observed, that Mr. Corry, the Irish chancellor of the exchequer, had attended to give any explanations respecting the Irish loan. It appearing to be the general opinion that the whole loan should be taken at once, it was agreed to round the sums, and to say twenty-seven millions and a half, or twenty-eight millions, as Mr. Pitt should decide when the loan should be finally taken, and after he had investigated more minutely the public accounts. This is to be the whole loan within the expiration of the last payment.
Mr. Pitt then said, he wished to take the biddings on 150l. consols, and the rest in reduced, the highest bidder on which was to be the purchaser. He wanted the first payment to be made on the 20th inst. but this was objected to on account of the shortness of the time. Mr. Pitt, however, could not postpone that date. He next observed that he should require that all the payments should be made in the course of the month of November; but this was also objected to, as the contractors urged that the public could not digest such a large loan within so short a period. Mr. Pitt said, he was surprised at this remark, as forty millions had been before raised within one year. The objection was, however, carried, and the last payment adjourned to the 11th of December. A discount of 5 per cent. for prompt payment having been proposed by Mr. Pitt, it was objected to by Mr. Boldero, on the part of the bankers, as it would tend to leave their balances low; but this was over-ruled by the other contractors, and the 5 per cent. accepted.
The instalments are to be as follow:   10 per cent. on the 20th of February.  10 ————— 17th of April.  10 ————— 15th of May.  10 ————— 19th of June.  15 ————— 17th of July.  10 ————— 21st of August.  10 ————— 16th of September.  15 ————— 16th of October.  10 ————— 11th of December. 
He proposed that they should take 125l. of three per cent. consols, and that the bidding should be on the reduced.
The annuity of the reduced to commence from October last; the annuity on the consols, from January.

The discount on prompt payment to be made against Egypt had arrived at Maruza, 5 per cent. and he said he was authorized to give them an assurance that there would be no other loan within the year; but that the chancellor of the exchequer must have the power of asking for a vote of credit, if necessary, to the amount of about 3,000,000l.
The bargain is to be finally settled on Monday morning.
As soon as the substance of the conference with Mr. Pitt and the amount of the loan were known in the city, stocks fell one and one half per cent. Several bargains were made late last night at 55 1-2. No public business was done this morning. We have heard of a few bargains at 55 1-4 to 1-2.
HOUSE OF COMMONS
February 17.
Brown Bread Act.
The Bill for repealing the Brown Bread and Coarse Flour act of last session, was read a third time, passed and ordered to the Lords.
The budget was opened by Mr. Pitt with his usual ability. The following are
THE NEW TAXES:
  Tea, 10l. per cent. on all above 2s. 6d. per lb. £.300,000   Paper, double the present duty, with a few exceptions and an allowance for Newspapers 135,000   Printed Cottons, &c. an additional duty of 2 1-2d. on all, paying 3 1-2d. 140,000   Sugars, 1s. 10d. per cwt. the Convoy Duty made proportional, and the temporary one to cease 123,000   Timber, one third of the present duties 100,000   Pepper, 3l. per lb. home consumption 8,000   Ditto, exported 6l. per lb. 92,000   Lead, 20s per ton, exported 12,000   Train Oil, 20s a ton 12,000   Raisins, 1s. 6d. per cwt. 12,000   Post-Office, increases on letters sent beyond 100 miles, arrangements relative to cross roads and penny post raised to 2d. 150,000   Stamps, one half increase on bills and notes, double on policies of insurance, and 3s. more upon deeds which now pay 10s. per skin 340,000   Horses for Pleasure, where only one 10s. 63,000   On all above 20s. 73,000   Do. for Husbandry 4s. 170,000   TOTAL £ 1,730,000 
LONDON, Feb. 23.
That part of the old administration which had not actually delivered up their seals of office, although they had announced their resignations, have resumed their former functions. Lord Loughborough, who had taken leave of the Court of Chancery, sat again on Thursday as Lord Chancellor.
In the Treaty of Peace concluded between the Elector of Bavaria and France, the former consents to pay, besides all preceding requisitions, six millions of livres, as an indemnity.
The King of Sweden has granted permission to the Danish Government to march 3000 of the Norwegian sailors through a part of his territory.
March 3.
The Bulletin of this morning is, we are glad to say, more favourable than yesterday. It is as follows—
BULLETIN.
Queen's House, March 3.
His majesty had a very good night, and his fever is much abated to day.
T. Gisborne,
(Signed)
H. R. Reynolds."
In the early part of the night his majesty's fever began to abate, and it is said that he obtained eight hours sleep.
The second Hanburgh mail arrived late last night. It has brought a copy of the note transmitted by the Prussian government to Lord Carysfort.
Prussia seems at length to have departed from that cautious policy which she has hitherto adopted. The terms and tenor of that are decisive, and leave no room for doubting that she has entirely acceded to the northern convention.
The mail has brought no other news of much importance. On the 11th ult. the Secretary of Lord Elgin arrived at Vienna from Constantinople, with advices that the remainder of the English troops destined to
the Levant had arrived at Maruza, where a great number of ships of war were at anchor. The Gulph of Marmora is situated so as to communicate both with the Archipelago and the Black Sea.
There does not appear to be any foundation for the rumour brought by the first mail of the defeat of the English troops who landed near Damietta.
GLASGOW, March 5.
The Hamburg mail due on Sunday arrived on Monday. A Vienna article of the 7th of February, states, that Lord Minto had received official intelligence, that Gen. Abercromby, with the British fleet and 124 transports under its convoy, had arrived on the coast of Egypt, in the beginning of January; and that the troops had landed without opposition in the vicinity of Damietta. Lord Elgin, our ambassador at Constantinople, it is said, has dispatched a courier to London with a complete account of the successful landing of the British, and of their having been joined by the Turks, who are preparing to act with vigor.
March 8.
The Speech of Mr. Pitt on Friday is very interesting. He declared that, contrary to his own inclination, circumstances, the most distressful and embarrassing, had compelled him to retain his situation as minister; and that, while he held it, he should feel himself bound to act in the manner most conducive to the interests and safety of his country.
PARIS, February 21.
The French entered Mantua on the 6th inst. and were received by the inhabitants with transports of joy.
The first consul assisted at the sitting of the national institute on the 15th, in his capacity of member, and stated that he had several Egyptian manuscripts to present. Among those which he gave in were some written in Greek, Syrian, and Hebrew characters.
The ratification of the accession of the court of Berlin, under certain conditions, to the convention of armed neutrality in the North, was dispatched to Petersburg on the 23d of January. His engagements have not permitted the king to regard with indifference the embargo laid on the Danish and Swedish vessels in the British ports, an official notification of which has been made by lord Carysfort. The reply of count Haugwitz to his lordship may be regarded as the prelude of the occupation of Hanover and Hamburg by the Prussian troops.
Feb. 25.
The following are stated to be the political arrangements which will take place in consequence of the treaty of Luneville:
In Italy, the king of Naples remains in statu quo ante bellum, and in a given time, his majesty is to shut his ports against the British.
The pope becomes once more the bishop of Rome and the centre of Catholicism, with an allowance of two millions annually. His holiness acknowledges the validity of the oath administered to the clergy of the republic—Priests to marry, and the system of divorce to be acknowledged.
The king of Sardinia unites the pope's dominions to his island.
The infant duke of Parma adds to his duchy those of Piacenza, of Modena, of Tuscany, and of Lucca, which is no longer to be a Republic.
Liguria is to possess the Tortonese, the territory of Alessandria, of Monferrat, and part of the Artesan: the remainder of Piedmont to belong in all sovereignty to France, except Navarre and Verceil, which go to the Cisalpine Republic.
The gulph of Spezzia to be united to Tuscany, and to be dependant on Parma.
The Grand duke of Tuscany has his indemnity in Germany.
Poland to be re-established as she stood previous to the second partition; the archduke Leopold, palatine of Hungary, is to be king of Poland.
The duke of Modena to have the Brisgaw. Clef du Cabinet.
The minister of police, learning that M. de Cazales had embarked at Dover, for the purpose of returning to France, issued peremptory orders that he should not be permitted to land in any part of the republic's territory.
CONSTANTINOPLE, Jan. 10.
Syria and Egypt are now again become the theatre of war. The first division of the British fleet is now arrived on the coast of Syria. Admiral Leith has notified to the Captain Pacha that he had landed in the bay of Mannary with 50 transports on board of which was General Abercromby. The other half of the expedition was immediately expected. The British am-
bassador here, lord Elgin, has received the same intelligence. British commissaries have been sent to the principal trading places in the Levant, to procure provisions for the British fleet; 5000 oxen, and great quantities of provisions have been bought up at Smyrna. Considerable sums of money have been remitted hither from Britain, to make similar purchases.
It is said here, that the French force in Egypt amounts to 13,059 men, and that the number of their auxiliaries, which consist of Copts, Arabs, and Mamelukes, may be estimated at 15,000. In Salachieh there is a garrison of 2500 men, in Alexandria one of 2000, and in Cairo one of 2000. Various other posts have different garrisons of 600, 300, or as low as 50 men.
The report that a mutiny had taken place in the month of November in the camp of the Grand Vizier, and that he himself was in danger of his life, is unfounded. The report originated in the circumstance that the troops of the pacha of Tripoli, in Syria, who has the same name with the grand vizier, being dissatisfied with him, drove him from his camp. The Ottoman Generallissimo, who was encamped at Jaffa, waiting the arrival of the British, has now deposed the Pacha.
The preparations in the arsenal here still continue, but it is said that only a part of our naval force will join the British expedition against Egypt. Our government appears to be uncertain with respect to the measures it adopts on this occasion, as Russia views with dissatisfaction the expedition of the British against Egypt.
The Porte has laid an embargo on all the ships and property of Algiers, Tunis, and Tripoli, in the harbours of the Levant, because these states refuse to declare war against France.
Another letter same date.
To facilitate the landing of the British in Syria in Egypt, the Porte has taken up all the foreign ships at Smyrna, Snio, &c. to take on board troops and provisions for the British. The Russian ships alone have refused this service.
The ambassador from Algiers has been put under arrest because Algiers has concluded a peace with France. The embargo laid on the ships and property of Algiers, Tunis, &c. &c. at Smyrna and other ports, has caused a great sensation here.
There is a report here to day of a victory which the French have gained over the British on the coast of Syria or Egypt; but no official advice has been received of it.
HAMBURGH, February 14.
The Prussian minister on the 13th of Feb. gave in another note to lord Carysfort, in which his Prussian majesty expressed his astonishment that Britain should consider the connexion entered into by the northern powers as a measure of hostility against herself, though its object is merely the protection of neutral trade. The note expatiates on the impracticability and necessity of the principles which form the basis of the northern convention, and enlarges on the arbitrary abuse of naval power.
The note concludes by declaring, that as Prussia had acceded to the northern convention, she would support it, agreeably to her engagements, and by expressing a hope that the justice of his Britannic majesty would take off the embargo that had been laid on all Danish and Swedish ships, as otherwise his Prussian majesty would be under the necessity of employing the means which Providence had placed in his hands to procure justice for his friends and allies.
VIENNA, February 2.
We have received the important intelligence that the court of Petersburg has declared to those of Naples and Lisbon, that if they do not shut their ports against Britain, his majesty the emperor of Russia will not intercede in their favour with France.
HAGUE, February 11.
Letters from Amsterdam state, that for some time past a great number of sailors, and about 800 newly raised marines, have been sent to the Texel for the fleet. A great number of sailors have been also sent to Helvoetsluyts for the division of the Meuse. It is also said that admiral Bruix has agreed with the Batavian government upon a plan for the speedy organization of the fleet, as also for its destination. Although we must be ignorant of the latter point, it is however certain that this fleet, consisting of 19 ships of the line and 8 frigates, will carry a considerable corps of French and Batavian troops for landing. The politicians already begin to form conjectures on the object of this expedition. Some of them effect a descent in Scotland;
others retail the Cape of Good Hope, while others send this armament to the East Indies, there to give a deadly blow to the British power.
KONINGSBERG, February 9.
Our Gazette contains the following article:—
Courland, January 22.
The preparations for war are continued in all the Russian ports with the greatest activity. His Imperial Majesty takes every opportunity to testify his approbation of those officers who manifest the greatest attention and industry on those occasions. An army will be embarked which, in conjunction with others, and especially with a French army will endeavour to effect a landing in Ireland.
WESEL, February 17.
It is now certain in a great degree, that the Prussians mean to take possession of Hamburg, Bremen and Hanover, and thus to exclude the British from all intercourse with the Continent. This measure is in conformity with the convention agreed upon between Prussia, and Russia and France. The army of demarcation is to be considerably reinforced.—The house of Orange, in consequence of arrangements made by the king of Prussia, is to find an indemnity in Germany.
STOCKHOLM, February 6.
Our naval preparations are carried on with such activity, that our fleet will be ready to sail by the end of March, if the harbors should by that time be free from ice.
The case of count Wrangel, who, as it is well known, commanded the first convoy taken by the English in the year 1708, has been finally terminated by the king. The count is sentenced to be shot; and the court-martial, who had only adjudged him to be dismissed the service, has received a severe reprimand from his Majesty.
Feb. 20.
The note of the count de Haugwitz to Lord Carysfort is a sufficient demonstration that if England does not take off the embargo on the Danish and Swedish ships, Prussia will take a very active part in the Northern Confederacy. In this case, it is believed that the country of Hanover, as well as the city of Hamburg, will be occupied by Prussian troops.
The intelligence received here, of an English frigate having cut out several Swedish vessels from a port in Norway, excites a great sensation here, as it is considered as a formal rupture between England and Sweden. Denmark, on the contrary, endeavors to ward off the blow, and has nothing so much at heart as to keep on good terms with England.
Letters from St. Petersburg mention that the sale of English property, put under sequestration, has begun.
RATISBON, Feb. 15.
Several public prints report, that Gen. Lecourbe, with 30,000 men, will march against Turkey.
VENICE, January 28.
Tranquility and order have continued to prevail here; and the report of upwards of 100 Nobles having been arrested, is without foundation.
COPENHAGEN, Feb. 16.
The Swedish admiral Cronstedt is now arrived here, to confer concerning the naval preparations which are making in common between Sweden and Denmark, and the fortifications of the island of Kweekn. On the Swedish coasts batteries are erecting at Helsingberg, and the Swedish fleet will come to the Belts.
Fourteen of our ships of the line are almost ready, besides the frigates; the sailors are in part expected from Norway, and will pass through Sweden.
FOR SALE,
The complete frames for two buildings, ONE 44 feet by 24 feet, two stories, the other 28 by 16, both of best white oak and prepared in the best manner, being intended for the use of the owner. Poplar feather-edged plank, sufficient to complete, may be had with them. Enquire of the printer. April 10.
To LETT.
THE HOUSE opposite the GREAT HOTEL, now occupied by Kid, Elliot & Co.—For terms apply at said House. March 23, 1891. twsw

WASHINGTON CITY.
FRIDAY, APRIL 10, 1801.
Election of Members of H. of R. of U.S. for Maryland.
General SAMUEL SMITH has received in Baltimore City and County 1235 votes and Mr. Charles Ridgely 19 votes. Though the votes of the adjacent counties are not received, there can be no doubt of the re-election of General Smith.
We have received the votes of 4 districts, viz. No. 1, 2, 3, 4 in the Congressional district composed of Allegany, Washington, and part of Frederick Counties, which give
General Heister, the republican candidate 1,041
Col. Williams, the fed. can. 553
Majority 488
In the congressional district composed of Montgomery and part of Frederick County, the votes are for districts, No. 1, 5, 6, 7.
For Mr. Plater, the Fed. can. 584
Mr. Magruder, the repub. can. 383
Majority 201
In the other part of the district we are informed that Mr. Magruder has a considerable majority.
On the 23rd ult. an election was held in GEORGIA for a Representative in Congress, in the room of JAMES JONES, deceased.
The following are the total votes of Richmond, Columbia, Wilkes, Jefferson, and Warren Counties.
For John Milledge 1,116
William Stith 453
Peter L. Van Alen 120
George Jones 36
By the ship Fanny, capt. Braine, in 29 days from Greenock, arrived at New York London papers to the 2d and Glasgow to the 5th March are received; and by the ship Two Friends, capt. Vole, arrived at the same place in 28 days from the Downs, the London Courier, printed on the evening of the 3d of March, one day later than our accounts by the Eliza from Plymouth, is received. From these sources we derive many of the articles of foreign intelligence in the preceding page; besides which the papers contain nothing of any political consequence; excepting that orders have been issued to capture all Prussian vessels.
BOSTON, March 27.
We yesterday received Halifax Papers to the 21st inst. Their contents are unimportant. A subscription for a bank at Halifax, with a capital of £. 50,000 was opened and filled in half an hour. Many persons not being in time to engage shares.
FOR SALE OR RENT,
Two elegant brick Houses, 40 by 20 feet,
SITUATE on King and Columbia Streets Alexandria, as well calculated for the grocery and flour business as any in the city; also two large floors adjoining the above houses, 25 feet front, by 36 feet deep, and I will likewise lease or sell, 7 or 8 valuable lots on King and Patrick Streets, subject to a small ground rent. Possession will be given of one of the houses immediately, and the other in 30 days. Any person wishing to purchase, one fourth of the purchase money will be required in hand, one fourth in 3 months, and the balance in 12 months, by paying interest and giving a security on the property.
I will also sell or rent,
Two new two-story brick Houses, 25 feet front by 36 feet deep, situated near Pennsylvania Avenue, on the corner of E and B streets, between the great Hotel and the President's house. The situation for private families or stores, is equal, if not preferable, it being at present in the most populous part of the City. Possession will be given of one of the houses on the first day of next May, and the other on the first day of June following. One fourth part of the purchase money will be required in hand, one fourth in 90 days, and the balance will be taken either in negroes, dry goods or groceries. The negroes at their valuation, and the goods at the wholesale prices.
I will also sell,
Six or eight thousand acres valuable Kentucky land. The terms of payment will be required as above mentioned.
The subscriber intends carrying on the brick laying and plastering business extensively, and will keep a constant supply of bricks and lime for sale, he will also undertake to furnish all materials to any person disposed to build in the City, on the most reasonable terms for cash. Application to be made to Francis Peyton, Esq. for the property in Alexandria, or to
N. VOSB.
City of Washington, April 8, 1801. AM
FOR SALE,
A good and convenient Lot and House,
BEAUTIFULLY situated on the South-East corner of Square No 973, in the vicinity of the Navy Yard, commanding an extensive view of some miles down the Potomack. The house is two story high, fronting 42 feet on 11th Street east, and 42 feet on South G Street, adjoining the South front is a commodious kitchen, with oven and other conveniences. A large frame stable, carriage-house, with a hay loft 50 feet by 25, and a pump of fine water near the back of the kitchen. The lot will extend ninety one feet on 11th Street East, and 139 on South G Street. The purchaser may have a preference of the south half of the Square.
Also, a number of LOTS, eligibly situated in various parts of the City. The titles to the whole are indisputably free of every encumbrance, the terms moderate and convenient, which may be known by application to the subscriber, occupying the premises first mentioned, possession of which may be given within 30 days after purchase.
THOMAS TINGEY,
Who will also sell one whole and four half pipes, London particular Madeira wine, of excellent quality.
Washington, 10, April 1801. C.F.f
TO BE SOLD,
On Thursday the 23d day of April next, in the town of Bladensburg, at public Sale, between
20 and 30 valuable slaves,
A GREAT variety of household furniture, such as beds and bedding, mahogany and walnut bedsteads, mahogany and walnut tables, and chest of drawers, mahogany, walnut, and Windsor chairs, an elegant and extensive set of table China, several elegant looking glasses, and much other household and kitchen furniture, several very good saddle horses, two carts with harness complete, and four excellent milch cows. Also a number of improved and unimproved lots in the said town of Bladensburg. The sale to commence at eleven o'clock and continue from day to day until the whole is sold. The terms of sale, for all sums below 20 dollars, cash, and for all sums above twenty dollars, a credit of six months, except it be for real property, upon which twelve months will be given, the purchaser giving bond with approved security.
WM. STEUART.
N. B. One of the above negro men is an excellent taylor having been regularly taught and has kept a shop for three two years.
PROPOSALS
FOR disposing of an Estate called Blue Plains, situate on the Maryland bank of the Potomac river, valued at Forty-thousand Dollars. This Estate contains about 500 Acres of Land; perhaps, no land in the United States possesses more advantages as to soil, situation and health: it lies on the Potomac and Occoquan creek for nearer two miles, nearly opposite Alexandria, and within four miles of the City. Washington; the whole shore is a fishery, where myriads of fish are annually caught. There is on the Premises a Public Ferry to Alexandria with a Fishing-hauling, where upwards of 100,000 with other fish such as herring, perch, &c are frequently caught at one haul of the seine: white-back and other ducks in their seasons; the greatest quantity of drift wood every year comes down the river and lodges on the shore, more than sufficient for the use of the family for fire, so that it will not be necessary to cut any green wood for that purpose—about 200 acres of this land is in wood and timber; the improvements are a good Orchard with all kinds of the best of fruits, a good pailed yard and garden, a new dwelling house 57 feet long by 32, with a piazza in front and both the gable ends; four rooms above, and four below with a 14 feet passage, eight fire places, and three closets, with a good dry cellar the size of the house and divided into four parts; a new barn, granary, kitchen, walk-house and other necessary houses.
The ferry house, has four rooms with three fire places, cellar, kitchen, stable, &c—200 acres of this land in its present state, will command an annual rent of Six-thousand dollars, which is fifteen per cent on its valuation, and which may at a small expense be increased to Eight-thousand dollars, which will be 20 per cent per annum. It is proposed to vest this Estate in a stock to be divided into 400 shares, of 100 dollars each, and to be paid to Directors appointed as hereafter mentioned. When the shares are subscribed for the Subscribers shall in person, or by proxy, appoint three of their number as Directors of the Stock—as the present Proprietor of this Estate, will be compelled to make sale of some of his real property to discharge judgments rendered against him, to the amount of nearly Seven-thousand pounds; & those judgments operating as a lien equally upon this and his other property. He proposes to secure to the stock holders, an unincumbered title to this property by agreeing, that payment for the shares subscribed shall be made to the Directors to be appointed as aforesaid; who are hereby authorised to apply a necessary part of the amount of such subscriptions, to the discharge of all judgments standing, or operating against the said land; any balance remaining after the payment and satisfaction of all judgments and costs, to be paid to Walter Mackall, Esq; or his order; who will on receipt thereof, give a clear and indisputable title.
WM. BAYLY
March 3, 1801. 6t
CHEAP LUMBER.
FOR SALE,
By the Subscriber, on reasonable terms, either by large or small quantities, at his Lumber Yards, the north end of Lamberton, and at the old Sturgeon Pond, above Richards's wharf,
A QUANTITY OF ASSORTED LUMBER, viz.
One and 1-4 inch, 1-8, and 1 do. Yellow pine heart boards—1 inch pannel, 1-4 do. for floors, 1 do. common, white pine do—2 do. 7-8 1-4 and 2 1-2 do planks, 1 do. 1-8, and 2-8 do. boards, black walnut—2 do. plank, 3 do. 1-2 do. pannel boards, bedstead sets, poplar the whole of the above are well seasoned and fit for use—Clear heart pine, and sap pine white oak, and bilthead, hemlock and white pine scantling, assorted—best kind three feet cedar shingles, dressed and undressed, do. two feet white pine do.; do. 18 inch cypress do—Sedar rails—Also, white pine sawed rails—shingling and paistering laths, best kind; white oak waggon timber—sap pine planks sap pine one inch boards, 3-4 cedar, best kind, 3-4 white pine, 3-4 sap pine, seasoned weather boards—A quantity of handsome chestnut palings, sawed 1 by 3 inches and from 4 to 16 feet long, for garden fence, &c. A quantity of chestnut oak posts, dressed and undressed; a quantity of cherry boards, a quantity of large white oak joice, a quantity of chestnut posts—5000 feet of neat beech scantling for tool stocks—5000 feet of sycamore scantling for bedsteads; 2 inch white oak plank; 1 inch white oak boards, 3-4 do. do. 25,000 feet superior cherry boards and plank, 3,000 do. very clear 2 inch white pine plank, 3,000 do. handsome beater wood bedstead sets seasoned, 100,000 prime North Carolina shingles, a quantity of ash plank, 150 tons plaster Paris, warranted, 3,000 bushels best Virginia pit coal, 200 bushel cleans house sand
The subscriber intends, establishing a Lumber Yard at the Federal City of Washington, which he will keep regularly supplied as above—Any quantities may be agreed for by contract, deliverable, as the purchaser may will, provided that the place of delivery may be comestable by water with a navigable vessel—Any quantity that may be ordered for shipping abroad, shall be supplied with punctuality and dispatch, agreeable to order.
Gentlemen who are or may be building—as well as carpenters who may be under or may enter into contracts to build and furnish the materials, will find it well worth their attention to apply as above—Applications may be made by letter (post paid) or otherwise, to the subscriber, or left with Wm. and Anthony M. Buckley, or Benj. W. Morris and Co. merchants, Philadelphia.
Also for Sale or to Let,
A large commodious Dwelling House, without buildings complete, and from three to seven acres of land—Two small do. with lots thereto—Also, a small Store near the river—All laying in the village of Lamberton.
NATHAN COMBS.
N. B. A Screw Jack to let, that raises from 10 to 40 tons by hand—a constant supply of plaster and Smith's Virginia coal. Lamberton, New Jersey, (on Del.) January 13, 1801. twtf
FOR SALE.
THE SUBSCRIBER offers for Sale, four hundred ACRES of Valuable Land upon the Eastern Branch, opposite the City of Washington. It is bounded by the Water, from opposite the Navy Yard, nearly up to Dyer's Ferry; and extends back across that range of hills, South east of the City where are several, as elegant situations, for Building, as any in its vicinity. Two hundred and fifty Acres at least are covered with wood and timber; which independent of every experience, will in the judgment of judicious persons, yield to a purchaser, fifty per cent more than the proprietor will ask for the land. The soil upon the water, is a rich sandy loam of course excellent for early vegetables of every kind, clover &c. As all doubt respecting the continuance of the Government at Washington, must surely now be removed from the mind of the most incredulous, the subscriber is induced to offer this property for sale, in the expectation, that it must attract the attention of those who have money, and who wish to vest it in such a manner, as will produce an handsome interest for the present without risk, and the chance of a great rise in value, as the City increases in Population and wealth. A fourth, a third, a half, or the whole may be purchased upon easy terms by applying to
ANTHONY ADDISON,
At BARNABY, three miles from Dyer's Ferry.
Washington, April 6, 1801. twf.
Conrad & M c Munn
HAVE opened houses of entertainment in the range of buildings formerly occupied by Mr. LAW, about two hundred paces from the Capitol, in New Jersey avenue, leading from thence to the Eastern Branch. They are spacious and convenient, one of which is designed for stage passengers and travellers, the other for the accommodation of boarders. There is stable sufficient for 60 horses—They hope to merit public patronage.
City of Washington, Nov. 24, 1800. tf
A PREMIUM of 100 dollars will be given to any Person who will exhibit the best Plan of BARRACKS, for the Marines, sufficient to hold 500 men, with their officers, and of a House for the commandant. The Plan must be so drawn as to be capable of being hereafter enlarged, and must be so arranged as to suit the dimensions of the lot, which has an East and West front of 615 feet, and a North and South front of 250—The plans must be all lodged at the Navy Office before 1st May.
April 3, 1801.
FOR SALE, OR RENT,
TWO Brick dwelling houses, situated on the Pennsylvania-avenue near the President's house; each contain two handsome parlours and passage on the first floor, four lodging rooms, inclosing garret, all private, kitchen and cellar; the whole will be completely finished in a few days; the yard's front polished and set with trees; the walks to the street paved or gravelled, which will render the same as comfortable a situation as any in this City for a private family, and will be sold for less than any gentleman can have the same built for. A family of negroes, will be taken in part payment, or Lots will be exchanged for Slaves. For particulars enquire on the Premises of
OWEN ROBERTS,
March 11, 1801. tf
LOTS.
IN different eligible situations in the City for Sale or Lease on ground rent.—Likewise,
100 Casks inspected Rhode Island LIME.
A number of Quarter and half and Casks of MADEIRA WINE, of a superior quality, by JOHN SICKNEY At his building opposite Rhodes Tavern President's Square.
Washington, March 2, 1801. cop tf
JOHN GARDNER, TAYLOR.
GRATEFUL for the past favors, begs leave to inform his Friends and the Public, that he still carries on the Tailoring business at his residence in F Street, nearly opposite Rhodes's Hotel, City of Washington. He will keep on hand a constant supply of Cloths, Kerseymeres, Nankeens and every other article in the business of the best quality and at the cheapest prices.
He trusts his experience and steady attention to Business, will secure to him the Public patronage.
Washington City, } April 1 } tf
FOR SALE, A Valuable Tract of LAND,
LYING in part on the main Richmond road, a mile from the Rappahannock River, four Miles below Fredericksburg, (in a healthy and most agreeable neighbourhood,) containing about five hundred and thirty three ACRES well watered upon the said Tract there are about two hundred and fifty acres of Wood Land, the greater part of which is equal if not superior in quality to any high lands, yet uncleared in Spottsylvania. There are upon it a dwelling-house, necessary out houses, a very large barn, and a most valuable Mill seat, with a mill-house already built, capable of Manufacturing Twenty thousand Bushels of wheat annually, after being put in perfect repair. There is also upon it about sixty Acres of first rate meadow land, part of which is already reclaimed and has produced very heavy crops of Timothy hay. The above Land is bounded by the lands of Gen. A. Spottwood, Messrs. Wm. Hernon, Mann Page, Francis Taliaferro, and the Tract the subscriber at present lives on. Any further description is unnecessary as those who may be disposed to purchase will of course view the land. Upon said tract there are about one hundred and thirty Bushels of Wheat sown, the greater part of which look well and promising.
The said tract of land will be sold by the subscriber at private or public sale, three fourths of the purchase money to be paid on the day of sale and the balance in twelve months, bearing interest from the date, the purchaser giving bond with approved security. If not sold by private sale, by the first Monday in May next, it will then be sold on the premises on that day if fair, if not the next day to the highest bidder. The land in the mean time will be Shewn to any person who may wish to purchase by Messrs Francis Taliaferro, James Tatt, Wm. Darnaby and the subscriber.
LAURENCE BROOKE,
March 18, 1801. tM
To be sold to the highest bidder, at Montgomery Court-house Maryland, on Monday the 6th April next, and terms made known on said day.
THE following Tracts of Land adjoining, well adapted to farming and planting with a sufficiency of wood land, in a beautiful and healthy part of the Country, 4 miles from the above named Court House, and 18 from the City of Washington. One called Barnhill containing 2057 1/4 Acres, on which is a framed dwelling house 24 by 16 feet, with two brick chimneys, a Barn 60 by 24 feet, shingled roof, & shedded all round, a Kitchen and other convenient houses—Apple and Peach Orchards, 10 or 12 Acres of Meadow, is well set with Timothy, and more can be made. The other Wickhams goodville, containing 271 1/2 Acres, on which is a Framed Dwelling House, 20 by 16 feet, Kitchen, stone milk House 12 feet square—Tobacco and other houses, 12 or 15 Acres of Meadow well set in Timothy, and 70 Acres more can be made. A never failing stream runs through said land, so that the meadows may be watered with ease.
Also on the first day of May next, will be offered at Mr. Tunnicliff's Tavern; one, the most Westerly of the Old Six buildings in the City of Washington, now occupied by Mr. John Coyle.
HONORE MARIN.
Montgomery County, } 17th March, 1801. } CM

HISTORY OF THE LAST SESSION OF CONGRESS.
[CONTINUED.]
ON the 13th of December, General VARNUM laid on the table a resolution, the consideration of which was entered into on the 17th instant, declaring it to be expedient to alter the military establishment, that the second regiment of artillery and engineers should consist of three battalions.
On this motion an interesting debate took place, in which the extent and nature of our military arrangements were discussed.
The motion was advocated by Messrs. Varnum, S. Smith, Macon, Kitchell, and Randolph; and opposed by Messrs. Otis, Rutledge, Shepard, H. Lee, and Champlin.
Those who supported the reduction of the 2d regiment of artillery from its present complement of four battalions to three battalions, stated that the augmentation that had been made by Congress had arisen from the critical state of our foreign affairs; that whether this state had ever existed, required at this time no examination, as it was not disputed that measures had been pursued grounded on it. But that, notwithstanding the alleged menacing state of affairs, the President had not heretofore organised this additional battalion; that in truth the three battalions, still contemplated to be retained, were not full; that to enter into the organisation of this battalion at this period would produce a useless expence, as nothing further could probably be effected by the executive than the appointment of officers without having soldiers to command; that such a step would appear to be unnecessary, as it was understood that a convention had been formed with the power against whose aggressions we had armed; that under all circumstances, and especially under present circumstances, it was the true policy of the United States to be guided by economical views, and to repress the extension of a standing force beyond those limits which actual necessity dictated; that the only real use of a standing force in times of peace was to protect the western frontier, and the fortifications and ports on the Atlantic; that for these purposes the actual existing force was adequate. It was added, that should any serious danger from abroad hereafter menace us, our reliance must be, not on a handful of men, but on the militia of the union.
To these arguments it was replied—that the present establishment had not arisen from the late alarm that existed in the United States; on the contrary it had been created as a permanent measure, which in all circumstances would be beneficial; the establishment of a well disciplined corps of artillery and engineers had always been a favorite measure of government; that the instruction and experience essential to perfect soldiers in this department of tactics required time and patience—which was not to be learnt in a day, but must be the result of correct observation and scientific research; that as the United States had an extended western frontier, and a no less extensive chain of commercial ports and harbours, the numbers of the existing establishment were barely commensurate to their defence from any sudden and unexpected aggression. It was not denied that ultimately in a great struggle for our liberties or existence, reliance must be had upon the mass of our citizens; but it was averred that they were altogether inexperienced in engineering, and would require some existing well established school, in which they might acquire, in case of necessity, the rudiments of the science. That true economy, therefore, recommended a forbearance to subvert a system which had been formed at great expence, and all the benefits either actually, or contemplated to be received from which, would perish with its destruction. That in addition to these reasons of permanent weight, there were not wanting considerations of high policy which arose out of the present state of our foreign relations. It had been said that a treaty was formed with the French Republic; but until the contents of that treaty were officially known, until it was ratified and made a law of the land, no relaxation whatever in our defensive arrangements should be permitted.
In this debate Mr. CHAMPLIN declared that "he had been among those who had thought the aggressions of France not only justified but called for a declaration of war from us. He had been for taking the direct road,
But as other gentlemen had differed from him in opinion, he had voted for the new regiment of artillery, as a measure calculated in connection with other measures, to produce that step by step, which he could not directly obtain. He had therefore voted for the additional regiment then as a temporary arrangement.
"But though when first formed, he voted for the regiment as a part of the system of defensive measures, he now thought it would be permanently useful."
In allusion to the election of Mr. Jefferson to the Presidency in the room of Mr. Adams, Mr. Otis said, "that he was not one of those who were dismayed at the crisis in the political affairs of the country, and he trusted there was still a majority in the house, who unawed by a change of times and unshaken by the prospect of losing their measures hereafter reversed, would persevere while they had the power in maintaining the principles and measures to which the nation was indebted for its dignity and prosperity. If the administration of the Government is destined to change, let those who succeed take upon themselves the burden of reform; and if it was intended by this resolution, that he should have an opportunity to partake in the glory and advantages of it, with all due acknowledgment he begged to decline the offer."
"Let those, into whose hands the future government might fall, realise the expectations that have been raised, let them perform all the engagements they have made, let them preserve and augment the public prosperity, and while they enjoyed the exclusive credit of their measures, they should on those conditions receive all the support and approbation which in his humble sphere he could afford.—But he had no idea of adopting measures that would betray symptoms of regret and contrition for the past, and he hoped his friends would do nothing that should be construed into a deathbed repentance of a conduct which constituted their glory and their pride.—Retiring himself from a short political career, he had the consolation to reflect that his efforts had been directed to the support of no measure, which would not be a source of satisfaction, if he were retiring from the sphere of existence. And he doubted not that the other gentlemen had been actuated by the same motives and would unite in the evidence of their sober conviction by voting against the resolution."
In Reply to these remarks, Mr. Randolph observed that "the gentleman from Massachusetts had sounded the tocsin of party, and had called upon a majority of that house to meet with firmness what he conceived an honorable political death. He had proclaimed his indisposition to recede from those dignified measures that had hitherto been pursued. Mr. Randolph confided in the integrity of the gentleman; and did not entertain a doubt of his receiving his most cheerful co-operation in that change of measures, which he had portrayed as impending over the house; and he was happy to say, that if such a disposition were manifested by that gentleman, and by those who acted with him, it would be met by correspondent sentiments of harmony on his side of the house."
The question was then taken on Mr. Varnum's motion, and lost by a majority of seven; there being for the motion 39 members, and against it 46.
On the 23rd of December, a motion, previously made by Mr. DAVIS, to transmit to the President of the U. S. the laws passed by the Governor and Judges of the Mississippi Territory, and the petition of Cato West and others, presented to the house, together with all the documents relative thereto, was taken into consideration in the House of Representatives.
The debate, which arose on this motion was conducted with great animation. The opponents of the motion called upon the mover to state the grounds of a measure which implied a strong censure of the governor of the Mississippi Territory.
Mr. Davis rose, and in a speech of uncontrolled severity affirmed the official conduct of governor Sargent to have unfolded traits of odious tyranny, and oppression, in direct violation of the constitution. Rewarded by a salary of 2,000 Dollars, intended to compensate him for all his services, he had passed laws whereby in several cases he and the judges had exacted unauthorised fees. He had also omitted to perform a duty enjoined upon him, to notify the citizens of the election of their representatives; whereby he had avoided that control upon his unconstitutional exercise of power which they would have formed. After enumerating various acts of tyranny, and portraying the character of Mr. Sargent as combining pride, insolence, and extortion, Mr. Davis concluded by saying—"You have no idea of
the mischief this man has done in the Western Territory. His conduct has reared a powerful opposition to your administration, which will grow with our growth and increase with our strength, unless you remedy the evils that oppress our suffering fellow citizens. His conduct has alienated
the affections of the Western people, from your government; and this effect it will have while our fellow citizens are suffered to complain unheard, and the conduct of their oppressor is justified. Ask a well informed man from this territory, or from almost any part of the Western Country, why are you opposed to the administration of the government? he will tell you in a moment—I know that Winthrop Sargent, governor of the Mississippi Territory, has openly violated the constitution of the United States in sundry instances. I know he has outrageously violated the ordinance for that territory. I think he has shamefully exercised the legislative power put in his hands, by making it a cloak under which he has exacted the most exorbitant fees from the people to gratify his avarice. I know he has never received even a rebuke from the chief magistrate for all this. I consider Winthrop Sargent but a small vein of a great body; I am acquainted with the pulsations of that vein; I know it beats towards aristocracy; I know it swells with tyranny and despotism; I consider the great body that feeds this small vein as also contaminated. This will be the answer you will receive; and this will eternally be the language you will hear from those people, until you release them from the tyrannical bondage under which they are laid by the oppressions of the federal government."
The outlines of this statement were supported by Mr. Claiborne, of Tennessee; and the motion enforced by Messrs. Randolph, Macon, and Smilie; and opposed by Messrs. Otis, Harper, Griswold, Craik, Dennis, Rutledge, and Bird.
The opponents of the motion observed that its effect, if adopted, would virtually be to prejudge governor Sargent, who, if innocent, ought to be acquitted, and if guilty convicted in the usual and prescribed way; that that way was by impeachment; that this mode, and this only, constitutionally appertained to the house; that previously, however, to the exercise of this power, not intended to be used on trifling occasions, it became then to enquire with coolness and impartiality, and not to yield to testimony which must be considered as entirely ex parte. They declared that if Winthrop Sargent should appear on a full investigation of his conduct, to have committed the offences with which he was charged, they would be among the first to drag him before the bar of justice. But that until he was proved to be guilty they felt it to be their duty to repel charges that "Struck at the honor and integrity of a man, who to the age of fifty-six years sustained a character, not only unimpeached, but embellished with many virtues."
Under these impressions they moved a reference of Mr. Davis's resolution, with the memorial of the House of Representatives of the Mississippi Territory, to a select committee empowered to send for persons, papers, and records. This motion prevailed by a considerable majority. Within a few days of the close of the session a report was made by this committee; who stated the charges alleged against governor Sargent to involve, improper and arbitrary behaviour; an unconstitutional exercise of the legislative authority by the governor and judges; and unlawful exactions of office fees.
They observed, that as to, 1. Improper and arbitrary behaviour, that neither the charges were specified, nor evidence adduced.
2. As to the unconstitutional exercise of legislative power, the committee reported, as their opinion, what governor Sargent admits, that the governor and judges have made and published laws not derived from the codes of the several states; in doing which, they passed their prescribed limits. In justification of this conduct, governor Sargent urged a number of extenuating considerations, and indeed justified it on the ground of construction, and of the principle being avowed and acted upon by the governor and judges in making laws in the North Western Territory, whose form of government had been extended to the Mississippi Territory.
3. As to unlawful exactions of fees for official acts, the committee reported that governor Sargent acknowledged the receipt of fees for passports to persons travelling from the Mississippi Territory, to other parts of the U. States, and on marriage and tavern licences. But "he justifies the practice on the principle of those acts being extra from the duties of the governor's office, and also of precedent in the North
Western Territory; known, as he presumes, for a long time, to the general government."
The committee, however, observe that for a salary officer of the U. States, to exact and receive such fees "cannot be otherwise considered than as an abuse which ought to be corrected."
The committee conclude their report with expressing an opinion, that as these irregularities originated from incorrect and misconceived opinions entertained by the governor respecting the extent of his powers, and not from impure or criminal intentions, there does not appear cause for further proceedings on the matters of complaint for maladministration against Winthrop Sargent, as governor of the Mississippi Territory.
This report was taken up in the house on the day of the session, and occasioned a debate of some interest; in which it was contended that the resolution recommended for adoption to the house was at war with the whole tenor of the preceding parts of the report, from which it clearly appeared that Winthrop Sargent had passed illegal acts, and had made, for his own emolument, several unauthorised impositions upon the citizens.
On this ground the house rejected the report.
December 31st, the house took up for consideration, An act laying duties on licences for selling wine, and foreign distilled liquors by retail, on property sold by auction, and on carriages. The duration of this being unlimited, Gen. Varnum moved to limit it to two years. On this motion, the house being equally divided, the Speaker decided against it.
(To be continued.)
Public Sale of LOTS, IN WASHINGTON CITY.
WILL be Sold at Public Auction, to the highest bidder, on Friday the 1st day of May next, at William Lunscliff's Hotel Two Hundred Lots, situated Eastward of the Capitol and near to the Eastern Branch Ferry—he terms will be one half Cash and the other half at 60 days on Notes negotiable at the Bank of Columbia satisfactorily endorsed. An indisputable title will be given by.
GEORGE WALKER.
Washington, March 2, 1801. tMay
LOTS FOR SALE, In the City of WASHINGTON.
THE SUBSCRIBER offers for Sale a number of valuable Lots beautifully situated between the Capitol and the Eastern Branch. Also a few Lots to be let on lease for ninety-nine years in the vicinity of the Navy yard.
WILLIAM PROUT.
City of Washington, December 12, 1800. N B. A few Tons of good Meadow Hay, one Kilo of Bricks, and some Cord Wood. W. P.
NAILS.
ALL Kinds of Hammered and Cut Nails, and Brads, Sold at my store in this place, between the President's house and the Six buildings, at the following prices for Cash only.
Hammered Nails and Brads.
By cwt or 112 cwt by retail under 56.
Table with 3 columns: Nail size (e.g., 20d, 12d), Price per cwt, Price per 112 cwt.
Deck and Spike Nails, 11 1.2
Cut Nails and Brads.
Table with 3 columns: Nail size (e.g., 20d, 10d), Price per cwt, Price per 112 cwt.
SAMUEL M'INTIRE.
Washington, Feb. 6, 1801. tf
Nail Manufactory,
ALL kinds of Cut Nails for Sale by Wholesale and Retail at the Factory on F Street, and at the Hardware Store of the Subscriber, where persons building and all others wishing to purchase may be supplied with any quantity at the most reasonable rates.
JOHN JACK
Washington Feb. 4, 1801. f
BUILDERS.
WILLIAM LOVERING, of George-Town, and WILLIAM DYER, of the City of Washington, having commenced partnership in the Architectural and Carpenter line of business, which they are determined to carry on with assiduity, integrity and dispatch, hope for the patronage of their friends and the public.
Having a number of the best workmen now employed, are ready to execute any orders which they are determined shall be done in the best workman like manner for those who will please to favor them with their commands.
Orders directed to W. LOVERING, Gay Street near the Union Tavern, George-Town, or to W. DYER, 1 Street North of the new War Office, City of Washington, will be punctually attended to.
N. B. Wm. LOVERING has been in the practice of drawing for and superintending great part of the Buildings in the City of Washington and its Vicinity.
Washington, April 1. tf