The New-York journal, and weekly register (New-York [N.Y.]), 1788-11-20 00:00:00

The New-York Journal, and Weekly Register.
NUMB. 196, of VOL. XLII.]
THURSDAY, November 20, 1788.
[Total NUMB. 2375.]
HERE TRUTH UNLICENSED REIGNS; AND DARES ACCOST—EVEN KINGS THEMSELVES, OR RULERS OF THE FREE. Thompson's Liberty.
NEW-YORK: Printed and Published by THOMAS GREENLEAF, at the PRINTING-OFFICE, No. 25, WATER-STREET.
THE AMERICAN COTTON MANUFACTORY.
To the Board of Managers of the Pennsylvania Society for promoting Manufactures and the Useful Arts:
The Report of the Committee for Manufactures.
THIS committee, considering that the business in which they are engaged had attracted the public notice, and that it would be expected some account should be given of the progress and present state of the institution—in August last began an enquiry into the state of their funds, their stock of goods, machines, and utensils; by which they are enabled to lay before you the following statement, and they flatter themselves it affords a pleasing prospect of future success. It is now about twelve months since this society was formed, and subscriptions were entered into; some of which, from various causes, have not yet been paid. They therefore state the amount of the subscriptions received to the 23d of August, and shew the manner in which the money has been applied.
Amount of cash received of contributors when exchanged for specie, £1327 10 6 From this deduct for machines, utensils, and fitting up the house for the manufactory, 453 10 2
Which leaves a circulating capital of 874 0 4 With a view to meet one idea of the subscribers, the employment of the poor, and to promote the other object of the institution, the committee purchased a quantity of flax and employed between two and three hundred women in spinning linen yarn during the winter and spring, and also engaged workmen to make a carding engine, and four jennies of 40, 44, 60, and 80 spindles for spinning of cotton; and as soon as the season would permit the house to be fitted up, they were set to work. It is unnecessary to observe on the difficulties which occur in so arduous an undertaking, as attempting to establish manufactures in a country not much acquainted with them, such as finding artists and making machines without models or but imperfect ones. The committee have further had various obstructions thrown in their way by forging agents, of which you have already been informed. From these causes it happened that it was the 12th of April before the first loom was set to work: the number has been since increased to twenty-six, and in them have been wrought the following goods to August 23d.
  Of Jeans, 2959 1/2 yards,   Corduroys, 197 1/2   Federal Rib, 67   Beaver Fulian, 57   Plain Cottons, 1567 1/2   Linen, 925   Tow Linen, 1337 1/2 
7111 yards Besides in the looms 200 yards of Jeans, Corduroys, Cottons, and Linen, out of which manufactured goods they had sold at that time, of jeans, dyed cottons, cotton and linen yarn, fine and tow linen, &c. to the amount of 4481. 5s. 11 3/4d. besides which, in order to shew the state of the factory to the 23d of August in a clearer light, they subjoin the following statement of the stock account.
  S T O C K.   Dr. To Cash, £1327 10 6 3/4   To debts due sundry persons, 375 9 0   To profit, 72 4 9 3/4 
  Cr. By utensils, &c. £1775 4 4   Goods on hand and at the bleachers and printers, £453 10 2   Materials and linen yarn on hand, 732 14 11   Outstanding debts, 556 2 6   33 16 9 
£1775 4 4 In addition to the enumerated articles manufactured to the 23d of August, we annex the following to November 1st.
  Jeans, 759 1/2 yards,   Corduroys, 382 1/2   Flowered Cotton, 39   Cottons, 2095   Flax Linens, 123   Tow ditto, 494   Bird Eye, 123 
4046 yards And about 240 yards different kinds of goods now in the looms, the whole amounting to 1367 yards, and there has also been manufactured by the twirling mill about 185 lbs. of plain, coloured, and knitting thread: since the 1st of August also, 190 yards cottons have been printed; and it may be observed that the want of proper bleach yards, and the difficulty of procuring persons well skilled in bleaching, contributed to prevent the quantity being printed which was intended.
The committee have now laid before you a statement of their proceedings, and might adduce many arguments to prove the propriety and indeed the necessity of giving every encouragement to establish this valuable branch of internal trade; but they apprehend that the motives which gave birth to the association have not lost their energy, either from the result of these experiments or the prospect of future success: and they do not hesitate to add, that every view of the subject fully proves the peculiar importance of the cotton manufacture to this country, and the possibility (with proper exertions) of giving it a permanency which they doubt not will
prove a source both of private and public wealth. Impressed with those sentiments, and feeling sensibly our late dependence on foreign nations for many of the most useful articles in life, it is certain that unless there are great exertions of virtue and industry, we must still remain in the same disadvantageous situation: whilst on the other hand, if we pursue the plan of establishing manufactures among ourselves, we thereby open an extensive field of employment for persons of almost every description.
SAMUEL WETHERILL, Jun.
Chairman, pro tem.
THE committee of the board of managers of the Pennsylvania Society of arts and manufactures, to whom was referred the above report of the manufacturing committee concerning their transactions and the present state of the factory, having conferred with those gentlemen and fully investigated and considered the subject, deem it their duty to offer the following facts and remarks thereunto with a view to public information.
In the latter part of the year 1787, the society had obtained subscriptions to an amount sufficient to enable them to open a factory. The general wish of the manufacturing committee, at that time, was to obtain some of those machines, which by a substitution for manual labor enable the most agricultural countries to manufacture to very great advantage; but as nothing of that kind could be then obtained, and as the approaching winter made the employment of the poor a great object, and further, as the latter was deemed by many one of the principal ends to be obtained by a public factory, they determined to purchase a quantity of flax, which they dealt out for spinning to between two and three hundred women. The manufacturing committee were of opinion, that little profit could be expected from making linen, flax being worth at that time, 10d. half-penny per pound, and they had then no demand for linen yarn for any other fabric. Thus circumstanced a large quantity of linen warp was spun of flax, which cost from 9d. to 10d. 1/2 per lb. and for some small parcels even 11d. was paid. Out of this thread 2940 yards of linen were made without much expectation of profit, and a sufficient quantity remained to make the chain of near 16000 yards of plain cottons, fulians, jeans and corduroys: of which however but little more than half that quantity is yet manufactured. From the zeal and activity of the members of the society, measures were at length fallen on to obtain two complete machines, one for carding raw cotton, and the other (known by the name of Jenny) for spinning cotton yarn. Animated by this acquisition, the manufacturing committee were enabled (on the 12th April 1788) to begin the manufacture of jeans, cotton, and fulians, which were very substantial and good, and were eagerly bought up at the same prices as the foreign, by people of various circumstances and situations in life, until the want of demand for summer clothing put a stop to the sale for the present year. The committee, however, being unable to procure some necessary implements for cutting and finishing winter cotton goods, such as corduroys, thicksets, and velveteens, have been obliged, contrary to their wishes and the evident interest of the subscribers, to continue the manufacture of summer articles, when they should have been preparing for the winter demand, and have therefore only wove 749 yards of federal rib and corduroys, and these were all unfinished on the 20th of September for want of the implements mentioned above.
By the statement of the stock or manufacturing fund on the 23d of August, a profit appears of 721. 4s. 9 3/4d. though the goods sold amounted to no more than 4481. 5s. 11 3/4d. Your committee find from a careful examination, that the then remaining goods might be expected to yield a profit also; but they think it best and safest to form their estimate upon the whole value of the manufactures made at that period. They remark then that goods made in the factory up to August 23d, to the amount of 7321. 14s. 11d. have yielded a profit of 721. 4s. 9 3/4d. clear of all expenses, that is 10 per cent. in four months, or 10 per cent. upon each operation; for from temporary difficulties, of which some have been mentioned and others are yet to be stated, there have not been sales to the amount of the little sum of circulating money with which the committee commenced their business, though four, five or even six operations might be performed in a year. Thus it appears that this new and untried business has, in the first essay of an inexperienced but a judicious committee, produced a profit at the rate of 30 per cent. per annum on the active capital.
A variety of obvious circumstances, attending this experiment, concur to render the prospects of the cotton manufacture much more encouraging than it is proved to be by the profit abovementioned. The price given for flax was from 9d. to 10d. half-penny, and it may now be purchased of a good quality of the remains of last year's crop at 7d. The attention paid this season to the cultivation of that article affords every reason to expect it will be brought to 6d. half-penny and lower in future years. Already then has half the raw materials fallen as 150 to 100. the chain of all the goods having been hitherto made of linen yarn. The cotton, that has been worked up, cost on a medium 2s. 7 3/4d. per lb. and it may now be procured at 2s. to 2s. 3d. a reduction of price that could hardly have been hoped for, considering the many restraints laid by foreign nations on the exportation of that article. The southern states, which have begun the cultivation of cotton, will keep it at a reasonable price, should it succeed there, and of this there remains very little doubt. Dying and calandering heretofore cost 4d. per yard, but these probably will be done hereafter on much lower terms. Spinning and weaving have been more expensive than they will be in future, for the factory being partly to employ
the poor, the manufacturing committee were less particular about wages than a person would be, who should carry on the business as his private occupation. It will be proper to inform the board that many more spinners and weavers offered than could be then employed in the factory.
It is not unreasonable to suppose that more economy of day labour, and less waste of raw materials would take place in a private manufactory than in this public one, when it is remembered, that each member of the manufacturing committee had a separate private business to pursue. This circumstance led to the employment of a person to attend the sale of the goods at constant wages, which, if the manufacturer did it himself, would leave an addition to his profit, or if the factory was ten times as great, that business might be done by one person. The Philadelphia goods considerably exceeded British articles of the same kind in weight, so that a great saving might be made in the quantity of the raw materials used. In the mean time they must be considered by every reflecting consumer, as really worth more money than European goods of the same fineness, for that which is heaviest will be proportionally substantial and lasting. The price of labour having been heretofore a just objection to manufacturing in the United States, it is evident that the acquisition of machines must be a capital advantage. As they have been found to yield so handsome a profit, on a small scale, and where the manufacture is one half of linen yarn, which the machines do not make, to it is very certain that more extensive machines, moved by horses or water, and a cotton chain, as well as a cotton filling, must increase the manufacturer's profit exceedingly; and the saving of manual labour being the great object, your committee consider these two circumstances as worthy of the most particular notice, and that they should always be kept in remembrance. Water machines have been found best adapted to making the cotton chain, but until they shall be obtained, cotton yarn fit for warp, it is believed, may be imported to yield a profit directly from India, and thus may manufactures be rendered in another instance advantageous to foreign commerce. As the European companies carefully avoid the importation of cotton yarn, the American merchants will have no rivals in the purchase of that article, which is much more compact, according to its value, than china ware, bohea teas, and some other India goods. The American ships from India proper, having abundance of room, may bring it with great convenience.
The want of one implement, called the burner, to finish the jeans, prevented their appearing as fine as they really were, and probably occasioned a diminution of the price. This being now obtained, the manufacture will bring its real value, and better sustain a comparison with imported goods. Should any private person or company establish a cotton manufactory, several advantages would be gained in the present state of things besides the reduction of flax, cotton, fuel, provisions, rents and labour. The carding machine, for instance, which cost 100. may now be obtained for 60. or less. A jenny of 80 spindles, which cost the society 281. can now be procured for 151. and so of smaller implements and utensils. Weavers might be got from the country on more moderate terms, and new hands, who may emigrate, perhaps still lower. An evident loss of money arose from the want of a proper bleach yard, a difficulty that cannot long continue. The workmen, except two, were unskilled in the cotton branch, and through linen weavers become excellent weavers of cotton goods, yet it took some part of the time between April and August, and occasioned some expense to instruct them. Most of the spinners with the machines had much to learn and little means of instruction, whereas any number may now be taught. The factory was in a remote place, the best that offered to make the experiment, but a private manufacturer when making a permanent establishment, would choose a situation in which his goods would sell quickly and to the best advantage.
Your committee, being anxious to ascertain the real profits on the cotton manufacture, and wishing to check their estimate by every method in their power, requesting of two of the most experienced members of the manufacturing committee (long used to the cotton business) an accurate calculation of the expense of making a given quantity of olive coloured jean with a linen chain. This was accordingly done by each without any communication between them, and the particulars were minutely set down. Flax was rated at 7d. and cotton at 2s. 3d. per pound, weaving at 7d. per yard, dying and calandering at 4d. &c. The result of one estimate was 2s. 5d. and of the other 2s. 4d. 1/2 per yard for olive coloured jean, equal in appearance to the British quality, which was sold in the piece at 3s. 3d. per yard last summer. It must be observed that the American goods, on which the calculation was made, are above half an inch wider and much heavier than the imported, and that the rates of labour and prices of the raw materials were fixed on a medium rather higher than they would prove to a careful manufacturer. This fact must give very great satisfaction, as it confirms the truth of those consequences, which have been drawn from the foregoing investigation.
Your committee, having carefully examined into every part of this business, and thus fully stated to the board the facts and observations that occurred to them, impressed with the clearest conviction of the importance of the cotton branch, beg leave to recommend in the strongest terms, the prosecution of this manufacture by fresh subscriptions, until a knowledge and the due sense of its value shall induce some proper persons either citizens or foreigners, to undertake the business.
GEORGE CLYMER, TENCH COXE.
The foregoing report being read and approved, was ordered for publication.
JOS. B. MCKEAN, Secretary.
[All the printers in the United States are requested to publish the above.]
TO BE SOLD, For JERSEY MONEY at full Value, Or exchanged for any Property in New-York, or bartered for West-India or DRY GOODS, At Market Price,
A Valuable FARM, SITUATE in Woodbridge township, in the county of Essex, New-Jersey, within a quarter of a mile of the main road from Woodbridge to Brunswick, about eight miles distant from the latter, and three and a half from Perth Amboy, consisting of one hundred and seventy acres a third part of which is excellent MEADOW; a sufficiency of fire-wood, with a handsome piece of thrifty young timber.
The plough-land equal to any in that part of the country; the whole under good fence.
On the premises is a good house, kitchen, and barn; and an excellent spring of water near the door; to which is added, fifteen acres, or thereabouts, of salt marsh, on the Rariton, about one mile from the farm.
This place is well known by the name of CLAWSON'S FARM.
For terms of sale enquire of Mr. Joseph Bardon, merchant, New-York, or Benjamin Thompson, near Morris-Town
This Day is published, And to be sold by the PRINTER hereof and by ROBERT HODGE, No. 237, Queen-Street,
THE PRINCIPLES OF THE Latin Grammar,
EXPLAINED in a manner suited to the Capacity of Beginners, with rules and Observations calculated for those who have made proficiency in the Classics.
By JAMES HARDIE, A. B. Teacher of the GREEK and LATIN Languages, NEW-YORK.
WE, the PRESIDENT and PROFESSORS of COLUMBIA COLLEGE, whose names are hereto subscribed, do certify, that we have examined a new publication, entitled "The Principles of the Latin Grammar explained," &c. by JAMES HARDIE, and that we find it an accurate and judicious compilation, well calculated for the instruction of youth in the rudiments of the Latin language; and such as may be useful even to those who have made considerable progress therein. We therefore recommend it to all who are intrusted with the care of education, and particularly to the teachers in the different schools of this state.
W. SAMUEL JOHNSON, President, WILLIAM COCHRAN, Professr. of Lang. JOHN DANIEL GROS, Professr. of (Moral Philosophy and Geography), JOHN KEMP, Professr. of Mathematics and (Natural Philosophy).
For the CONVENIENCE OF MERCHANTS, Just Published,
And to be sold at this Printing-Office, A CATALOGUE of those ARTICLES of MERCHANDIZE on which DUTIES were imposed by late acts of the legislature of this state, viz. of April 11, 1787, and March 12, 1788; which duties took place on the 1st inst.
In the arranging of this catalogue neither pains nor expense of time has been spared to render it of great utility to the Merchants, by selecting and properly distinguishing the several rates of impositions—upon GOODS imported in vessels built in the United States since April 11, 1787, and not really and bona fide wholly the property of the citizens—imported in foreign vessels—and, in American vessels. This work would require labour, and the most intense study and attention of the best merchant, so nicely to distinguish. It is printed upon a large substantial sheet of paper, with the several kinds of duties in distinct columns, in such a manner that they can be readily consulted when paled up in a Counting-house.
As a small number of this kind of work fell, in general, the sale being confined to merchants, 2/6d. each was at first demanded; but, finding no one chose to purchase at that rate, the Printer has (least he should sink his whole labour and expence) fixed the price at One Shilling only.
N. B. A few of the supplements of the act, passed the 19th of March, to be sold at this office.
All kinds of Public & State Certificates
BOUGHT and SOLD, At No. 27, WATER-STREET, And every kind of PAPER MONEY exchanged for SPECIE and re-exchanged:
Also on Hand FOR SALE, A LARGE Sum in Bancker's, Barber's, and Loan Office Certificates of this State, such as will purchase Lands at the Com- missioner's sale, and pay Quit-Rents—Likewise, Final Settlements of this State; any, or all of which will be exchanged for Common Final Set- tlements, Loan Office, or Pickering's Notes, and indents at a small difference.

MISCELLANY.
CENTINEL, No. XXI.
To the People of Pennsylvania.
Friends and Countrymen,
FRANCE exhibits at this moment one of the most interesting scenes to human nature, and peculiarly instructive to the citizens of the United States; a people who for many centuries had been accustomed to yield implicit obedience to the mandates of royalty, who never presumed to judge of the propriety of any measure of government, but whose highest glory was to recommend itself to the idol on the throne by the most obsequious services, to sacrifice every manly feeling, every consideration whether of self or country, at the shrine of his grandeur; I say this people, so long obsequious and subservient to the will and pleasure of a despot, seem to have embodied a new nature, to be animated with the noblest, most enlightened sentiments of patriotism, and in opposition to a court supported by a standing army of 200,000 mercenaries, is asserting its rights and privileges. Various causes have concurred to produce this astonishing revolution of sentiments and conduct in the people of France: perhaps the divine writings of a Montesquieu laid the foundation, and doubtless the able, animated discussion of the native rights of mankind occasioned by the late contest between America and Britain, must have been very instrumental in effecting this general illumination, and inspiring this ardent love of liberty in France. But it is probable from the strength which arbitrary power had acquired by custom and long established habits of obedience, that it might have continued in uninterrupted exercise for a long time to come, if the French court had not precipitated its destruction by an extraordinary stretch of power, which struck at all the remaining privileges of the people, and aimed at the unqualified establishment of despotism.
The French, enlightened to their native rights, have availed themselves of institutions and provincial privileges, hitherto enjoyed but in name, to check the despotism of power, which, insensible of the great change of sentiment that had taken place in France, was so rash as to attempt the enforcement of new arrangements and impositions, instead of adhering to the old establishments that time and custom had sanctioned: the French nation already prepared, waited but a suitable occasion to vindicate their rights, this was now afforded by the indiscretion of the court, and they embraced it by reviving the exercise of the long dormant privilege of their parliaments to negative the acts of the court, by refusing to register such of them as they disapproved, without which they could not be legally executed.
The French court, finding their projects of power and dominion frustrated by the patriotism of these local parliaments, who, from their vicinity and near connection with the people, were greatly influenced by the common feeling and interest, came to the bold resolution of annihilating them at one stroke, and substituting in lieu of them one general parliament, or court pleniére, under the specious pretence of reconstituting the public finances and credit, deranged and prostrated by the late expensive war and the peculations of the ministers of state.
But the French nation had too much discernment to be thus imposed on; they saw the object and tendency of the new constitution, or court pleniére, they were sensible that a parliament so remote from the people would be wholly subservient to the views of the court, however despotic they might be; they had experienced the fidelity, the patriotism, and the fellow feeling of their provincial parliaments too much to acquiesce in their annihilation, and accordingly they opposed this decisive step of the court with a spirit and unanimity that has appalled its despotic spirit, and suspended, if not frustrated, the intended innovation.
What a surprising similarity there is in this project of the French court and that of our would-be despots! The Cæsars of this country having been bafled in all their attempts upon the liberties of the separate states, by the patriotism and vigilance of the representatives of the people in the state legislatures, they have availed themselves of a peculiar crisis of trade and public affairs, of the universal will to vest Congress with competent powers, to procure the establishment of a general government, or court pleniére, that will from its constitution grasp all powers and silently abrogate the state governments.
In the conduct and example of the French provincial parliaments we have a striking illustration of the great utility and indeed necessity of local or provincial governments being vested with competent power to prevent the oppression of the general government, who being so far removed from the people, would possess neither the means or the disposition to consult and promote their interests and felicity. The provincial parliaments of France, although infinitely inferior in their constitution and independency to our state legislatures, have proved an efficient obstacle to the extension of arbitrary power, and in all probability will be the instruments of procuring a constitution of government that will secure the enjoyment of the inestimable blessings of liberty to every citizen of France.
Our grandees, apprehensive that the opposition making by the French nation to the abolition of their provincial parliaments, and against the establishment of the new constitution, or court pleniére, might, from similarity of principles and circumstances, open the eyes of the Americans to the despotism aimed at in our new constitution or court pleniére, has endeavored to conceal the true nature of the convulsions by which France is at present agitated; and in this view, in contradiction to the most authentic information both public and private, they have industriously circulated the idea that the designs of the French court are patriotic and in favor of the people, and that the opposition to their measures proceeds from a set of interested men, who wish to exempt themselves from the common burthens; but where is the American patriot who credits this representation, when he sees a Fayette, an Armand, among the foremost in this opposition; when he beholds the magnanimity and heroism displayed by this opposition who fearless of the frowns and persecution of the court, persevere in the defence of their rights, esteeming banishment, imprisonment, loss of offices and emoluments, highly honorable when incurred in such a cause.
Galen, who, in common with those of his party, had experienced the galling mortification of being defeated in every attempt to overthrow our invaluable state constitution, declared in the convention, "that he rejoiced at the prospect which the establishment of the new constitution afforded of the state governments being laid at the feet of Congress." This sentiment, which the Dr. had indirectly suffered to escape from him in the hour of infolence and triumph, was afterwards ingeniously explained away, lest the people should be apprised of the real object in view by this premature discovery, for James the Caledonian, the principal framer and advocate of the new constitution, had been obliged to confess, that to extensive a country as the United States includes, could not be governed on the principles of freedom by one consolidated government, but that such a one must necessarily be supremely despotic.
My next number will be on the subject of the immense sums of public money unaccounted for, now ascertained by a late investigation of Congress, which perhaps will be the most effectual method of elucidating the principles of a number of the great advocates of the new constitution, and enable the public to form a better judgement of one of the men lately appointed by the legislature of this state to a seat in the federal senate, and of some of the men proposed as federal representatives, who will be found to be, but puppets to this great public despot.
CENTINEL.
Philadelphia, November 6, 1788.
To the Printer of the St. J. CHRONICLE.
SIR,
AS this is the age of reform, pray let me point out one of the glorious acts of the late King of Prussia; if some such mode is not soon adopted here, the Lord have mercy upon us. Advocates, laid that wise King, when too numerous to live by honest practice, busy themselves in exciting disputes; the number therefore to be employed in each court shall be limited.
2dly. The recompense of advocates shall be fixed to the nature of the cause, and the labor required, but not a penny shall they receive until the suit is ended, that it may be their interest, as well as the client's, to shorten the Proceeds.
3dly. Small and simple causes may be decided upon the oral pleas of the two parties appearing before the judge. Advocates are, however, often necessary to explain the questions to be decided. But these men instead of endeavouring to promote justice, and discover truth, often exert their wits in the defence of bad causes, by forgeries of facts, and fallacies of arguments.
4thly. No advocate shall commence a suit until he has collected all the necessary evidence.
5thly. A special advocate is appointed for the poor.
6thly. Attorneys, who formerly collected evidence, are now all dismissed. And, lastly, Tediousness of suits keep the parties in disquiet and perturbation, robs and perpetuates animosities, exhausts the litigants by expense, retards the progress of their fortune, and discourages strangers from settling, which nothing but contraction of processes can remove.
Law-proceedings, in this country, are a disgrace to it. Sit down, said the late Lord Chief Justice Willes, to a friend who asked him for law advice, under any oppression or injury whatever, rather than go to law.
Your chancery-mouse, Mr. Baldwin, tells us, that my Lord the Judge said, one ought to take the opinion of some eminent counsel; and as Dr. Frank Nicholls told a man at Willes Coffee-House, who asked him what he should take—Take, said the Doctor;—Take advice, he only took a hint, however, and let the ingenious Doctor read his Newspaper without further interruption. I am afraid that nine times in ten, when a man fees an eminent counsel, the consideration of the client's case is less considered than the mode of advice to bring gift to the Bar-Mill; but I am no Lawyer, Mr. Baldwin, and so Your humble servant, A. B.
The following is extracted from a Charleston, South-Carolina, paper of Oct. 16, 1788.
Cheraw District.
WE the subscribers, inhabitants of the district of Cheraws, in the state of South-Carolina, taking into serious consideration our present deplorable and unhappy situation, from the want of a circulating medium, which we find by woeful experience cannot be procured even by the most eminent planters for any merchantable produce; and beholding, with sorrow, the many instances of cruelty and oppression which are daily held up to our view, of worthy and respectable families being too often reduced from a state of ease and affluence to the verge of penury and distress by sheriff's sales; and, as it has pleased the Almighty Father of the universe to withhold from us, until the last crop, the means of extricating ourselves from our numerous creditors, by several years loss of our labour, and by other concomitant circumstances; beholding, at the same time, with akeing hearts, the inefficacy of the instalment act, held out to us as our sure support: WE DECLARE ourselves bound by every tie of civil society, of parental and filial love, to stand by, assist, and support each other, in carrying into effect, according to their true intent and meaning, the following resolutions:
"Resolved, That we will at all times, and in all places, pay due submission to the laws of our state; and that we will, whenever we shall be called upon, or shall find it necessary, exert ourselves, in aiding and assisting any and every officer of the state, in carrying the laws into execution, to their full intent and meaning; except only in such cases, where humanity itself would shrink back, in seeing the property of our neighbours and relations wrested from them, and conveyed to others, without any, or a very small diminution, of their creditors demands."
"Resolved, That in order to do ourselves, our creditors, and our debtors justice, we will deliver to any two or more honest and approved men (who shall be deemed qualified to assess the same, whenever demanded of us) good and sufficient property to answer just demands; and we will, upon its being approved, execute good and sufficient titles and conveyances for the same to the demanding party."
"Resolved, That we will, at the risk of every thing precious and dear to us, stand by, support, and
protect each other, in preventing, to all intents and purposes, every sale which may now, or shall hereafter be advertised "a sale for cash," when taken by execution, by any sheriff or constable in this district."
"Resolved, And it is hereby earnestly recommended to every sheriff and constable, within this district, to take particular notice of, and pay due attention to, these our resolves; and that we will, to the extent of our power, and at the risk of every thing dear to us, support and protect, all and every such sheriff, who shall by any means be endangered by paying the attention herein requested."
"Resolved, If any sheriff or constable, within this district, be found acting in any wise contrary to the above resolves, he, or they, so acting, shall be deemed an enemy to humanity, and shall be treated accordingly: and we are determined, let the consequences be what they may, to put a speedy and effectual stop to such proceedings, in all parts of this district."
"Resolved, That these resolutions continue in full force until the house of general assembly, now about to be convened in Charleston, shall make known what further can be done favorable to our present deplorable situation; to whose wisdom we leave it, with our most hearty prayers, that it will please the great giver of all good to endow them with wisdom to direct, and vigour to enforce, whatever shall be found most conducive to the welfare of this state in particular, and of the United States in general."
Since the above resolutions were agreed to, a petition, correspondent thereto, hath been set on foot, praying for legislative interference, which is said to be more generally signed; and will be brought down by some of the members, for that parish, who are shortly expected to arrive in town.
American Occurrences.
CHARLESTON, October 14.
YESTERDAY a coroner's inquest was held on the body of William Sibbrel, found dead on board a brig, laying at Market wharf.
William Weston was drinking in Mr. Campbell's house, on Sunday evening, with the deceased, a native of Great Britain, and a French mariner, both belonging to a French brig. The Frenchman had a large knife in his bosom, which alarmed the others, and made them press his going on board; he appeared to be displeased, and went away. They soon after followed, and were accosted by Mr. Alexander and Mr. Winter, who said, they had been ill used by some Frenchmen, to defend themselves against whom they solicited assistance; this being promised they parted, the witness and the deceased went on to the brig, where they were soon after joined by the others, but did not see any other weapons of offence, than a sword which Alexander held in his hand. Alexander asked for that damned Frenchman who drew a knife on him. A French sailor came on the wharf, who advanced towards Alexander, making several flourishes with a short sword or tuck, he closed with Alexander, when an affray took place amongst the people at that time on board the brig; the witness saw Winter swing an axe, with both his hands, and strike Sibbrel, looking on, an inoffensive spectator, who immediately fell, after which he struck him twice, as he lay on the ground. He then dealt with the axe very briskly round, and wounded another man dangerously. The witness said, "this man you first knocked down is dead," when Winter exclaimed, "Good God! this is not the man I intended to strike."
Dr. Moore had viewed the body of the deceased, and believed that a blow received on the forehead was mortal.
[The apparent wound would not have proved fatal, if the opposite part had not been thereby fractured, this may to some appear a kind of phenomenon, but the medical books contain several similar instances.]
Mr. Thomas was in bed, heard a voice at his door, which he took to be Winter's, ask for a sword; he threw out of the window an old one, which usually lay at his bed's side; he looked out of the window, and saw Winter going down the wharf with an axe. At the vessel he saw Alexander engaged in a contest, but did not stay to see its termination.
Robert Whitehead was in a sloop, on the deck a sleep; he was awakened by a noise, which he perceived to arise from a Frenchman abusing a man in a blue coat (Alexander) the Frenchman went to get a handspike, on which Winter advised Alexander to leave the place; they went away, and soon after returned with arms. He saw the Frenchman close with Alexander, the people a round got into a cluster; saw the deceased fall, but did not know who assaulted him.
The inquest returned, that Winter was guilty of wilful murder, and that Alexander was accessory thereto.
The principal in murder is ousted of clergy in all cases, and the accessory before is also ousted of clergy in all cases. 2. H. H. 344.
House of Representatives, October 16.
After several petitions had been read and committed, descriptive of the unfortunate situation of the republic, which being referred to a committee, Major Butler was called to from the chair.
He said, that if he thought it was the candid opinion of a majority of the legislature, that a valuation law is impracticable, unjust, or impolitic, he possessed not feelings that could support him in intruding on the time of that honorable house by a renewal of the measure: but when he called to mind the extraordinary fascination of the moment, when many good citizens were silent from necessity; and from the awe of prejudices equally violent and popular, remained inactive, he was led to believe, that the real sense of the legislature was not had on the measure;—and now that low and vulgar clamour has subsided, and there can no longer be any reason for a further concealment of gentlemen's sentiments on the propriety and the necessity of a valuation law, he had no reluctance in bringing the proposition once more before that honorable house. It is a part becoming an ingenuous mind, conscientious in the discharge of its duty, to pursue those measures that can be supported by moral principle, and have the approbation of virtuous characters, though attended with difficulty or even danger, rather than those, which though more secure in themselves, and
more applauded by a surrounding multitude, promise little of eventual advantage to the state. The honorable gentleman professed himself proud to contend, that the cause which he vindicated merited no rude—no coarse appellation. Yet such delusion prevailed when this measure was first broached, that the basest means were practiced to represent the friends to a valuation law as interested men—men over whose heads ruin closely hovered! Calumny, Mr. Speaker, however great a monster in its birth, when confronted by truth and justice, is a very reptile—yet let us for a moment suppose, with the slanderer, that the friends to a valuation law are all that falsehood represents—indifferent to the esteem and good opinion of their fellow citizens—regardless of their moral characters—unmindful of the welfare of the state; in short, mere birds of passage. Let us, however improbable, suppose all this, and of what import is it to this house? It is the measure and not the men we are to judge. It is the effect and not the cause, that comes under consideration. If the effect shall be tranquility to the state—respect to the laws—and the preservation of many worthy families from oppression and ruin, it is of little import to us whether the cause that gives birth to so good an effect, be self interest or any other base passion. He thought it necessary to say this much, in order to place the business in its true point of view. But who are these out of doors slanderers that will dare to tell the friends to this just measure, that they are actuated by dishonorable motives? He trusted that there was not a man who supported it that was not prepared with the only answer so great an indicacy merited. He should for the present decline saying any thing on the bill, believing there was not a gentleman present, if he opened his eyes and ears, but would see and hear the too general distress of the country, yet they were in some measure divided as to the remedy. Some thought a valuation law the only true, substantial and equitable relief—others preferred an instalment law; to the latter he begged to make one or two observations. Waving the question of right to pass an instalment law, he would show the insufficiency of it; in his opinion it militated against the treaty of peace; and the first thing we should hear of from the new government, would be a request to repeal the instalment law. The people of New-York particularly would urge this, because until it was granted they were prevented from enjoying their right to the fur trade. The New-England and Connecticut states too would murmur at numbers of their citizens settling on the banks of the Mississippi from a want of protection and encouragement at home. It we refused to comply, we ran a risque of being rejected from the union, or of waging eternal war with the general government. The honorable gentleman then made a forcible and energetic appeal to the good sense of the house, recommending the propriety of adopting a valuation bill, which would relieve involved debtors, without injuring creditors.
He then presented a valuation bill, which was read a first time.
The principal features of the bill are, that when property is attached by the sheriff, previous to proceeding to sale, he shall have it appraised, and offer it to the creditor at three fourths of the value at which it is returned to be worth, which if refused, then the sheriff shall proceed to sale, after giving previous public notice; if it cannot be sold at three fourths, then the sheriff shall stay sale until it can, or the creditor is willing to take it. If this cannot be done, he may sell on a credit of twelve months, taking good and approved security. The appraisers are to be twelve men elected, five to make a quorum. There are several guards against frauds, and exemptions similar to those in the instalment law.
Ordered to be read a second time on Tuesday next, and a number of the bill printed.
October 18.
Yesterday a committee, appointed by the senate to take into consideration the state of the republic, brought up a report, which declared the distressed state of the country to be so great as to call on the wisdom of the legislature for relief, and that a bill should be brought in for that purpose. On the yeas and nays being called, there appeared to be for the bringing in a bill 19, against it 6.
In considering the report of the committee, the principal arguments turned on two points; the general distress of the country being so great as to render it impossible for debtors to fulfil their contracts in money payments; the second that having adopted the new constitution, we no longer had power to interfere between debtor and creditor. In refutation of the first point it was contended, that the country might indeed afford some melancholy instances of distress and ruin befalling some individuals, on account of their property being sold by the sheriff, yet this loss was entirely owing to their not having at all complied with the fair advantages held out in the instalment law, it being a fact incontrovertible, that there could not be found three persons sued, that had made any payments. On the other point it was contended, that the new constitution having been adopted by nine states, became the supreme government, agreeably to the last article of the constitution, which declares,—"The ratification of the conventions of nine states, shall be sufficient for the establishment of this constitution between the states so ratifying the same." Should this be so, then the 10th sect. art. 1. was full in point, "No state shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or confederation, grant letters of marque, and reprisal: coin money; emit bills of credit; make any thing but gold and silver a tender in payment of debts; pass any bill of attainder, ex post facto law, or law impairing the obligation of contracts, or grant any title of nobility." Now, with what propriety could a valuation or similar law be agreed to, which had for its object the making property of any kind a tender?
It was observed, that the last clause had been too fully construed, the nine states being pledged to nothing more than an obligation that they accepted of the new constitution, whenever it was organized, and this was proved to be the sense of our convention. If the previous opinion prevailed, then the present Congress was a non-entity and its acts nugatory, and Mr. Adams's loan, with other matters of great importance, fell to the ground. How did our laws create more distinctions in paying debts due to Great-Britain than what she herself had set the example of? At this day could a French creditor seize one foot of land belonging to an English creditor, whatever might be due?
In the district of Charleston alone, there were writs in the sheriff's office to the amount of eleven

hundred thousand pounds, and the sheriff of Ninety-Six, had now in his hands one hundred and fifty writs. It had been clearly demonstrated, that our annual income did not exceed five hundred thousand pounds; how then was it possible for us to comply with the claims in force against us? A second instalment would be due in March; a third in the March ensuing, and as our circulating medium amounted in the whole only to one hundred thousand pounds, a person in this city who had so much due to him, and could get it in, might purchase the whole state, for every person in it was more or less in debt. Property was so depreciated that negroes, which three years ago would sell for seventy pounds a piece, might now go for a small part of that sum, as had been proved in the late sale of a gentleman's negroes, which did not average twelve pounds round.
To this it was replied, that foreigners were not permitted to seize on land in England, because there it was entailed. That as to the numerous writs in the sheriff's office, they always run for double the real sum, so that eleven hundred thousand pounds must be reduced to between five and six hundred thousand pounds; but then it must be considered that all writs upon bonds run for the full specific sum, when at the same time several payments might have been made. There were other circumstances which rendered this mode of estimation extremely uncertain; such as on trover-writs; for large sums claimed, which when liquidated, might probably be reduced very low indeed. Besides, a number of writs had issued against persons for sums due to this state, which would be paid in principal or special indents, and consequently had no sort of reference to the quantity of circulating medium.
A committee was appointed to bring in a valuation bill.
New-York, November 20.
By LAST EVENING'S MAIL.
CAPT. Davis, in the Boston packet, from London, has arrived at Boston and brought papers to the 15th of September. These papers mention, that 50,000 Turks had arrived at Kladova; a reinforcement of 26 battalions had arrived at Mehadia, and 2,500 Jews had joined the Emperor's armies: that the Visier is now at Vidin with 50,000 men, and there is besides a body of 14,000 Turks in the plains of Severin:—That the Swedish ship burnt by the Russians was the Gustavus Adolphus; she was out with two frigates reconnoitring when they met the fleet:—that the chief minister of the Dey of Algiers was strangled by order of the Dey for conspiring against his life with the son of the Dey of Constantinople: [The horrid curies of the Emperor of Morocco, denounced against his sons, now in rebellion against him, next week.] That the state of politics of Europe stands, viz.
The Emperor and Empress in alliance against the Turks, the Swedes against the Russians, the Danes for the Russians, the Prussians for the Swedes, England, Holland, and Prussia in alliance, the whole house of Bourbon favorable to the Turks, the Venetians favorable to the Emperor, the Portuguese favorable to the Empress, Hanover, &c. subservient to England and Prussia.
Capt. Davis spoke the French fleet from Boston, lat. 45. long. 46. 30.
Point-Petre, in Guadalupe, was to be shut against the Americans the 20th of October, but Basse Terre remains open.
We are happy in being able to assure the public, that Capt. Bennison, in the sloop Ranger, bound from St. John to this port, mentioned in our last to be in distress at sea, has since been relieved without the loss of any lives.
One of our Albany correspondents remarks, that the creditors of the state never had a fairer prospect of payment at any time since the peace, than they have at the present moment; the debt has ever been small when compared to the funds that might be applied to its redemption, and had they been judiciously managed, the public credit of this state might have been established in such a manner, that it would not have been degraded by a comparison with that of any other government whatever. We may yet retrieve our character if our rulers are disposed to act uprightly. Let them render justice to those from whom it has so long been withheld, which may be easily done by making a proper use of the resources of the state without burdening the citizens. The late land-purchases made from the Indians by his Excellency the Governor, are amply sufficient, supposing them to be sold at the reduced price of two shillings per acre, to discharge the whole of the debt; and the peculiar advantage which this state derives from the regular payment of the requisitions of Congress, leaves the legislature free from every encumbrance that can possibly retard the fulfilment of their engagements. The debt due on the first of January last, for securities loaned, as appears from the treasurer's report, was about 697,000. of which sum it is certain 200,000. will be redeemed by the expiration of the present year; and although the various other securities for which the state is answerable is said to be 150,000. yet from the very few that appear in circulation, we may reasonably conclude, that not more than half that sum will ever make its appearance. It must be a painful reflection to every person capable of feeling for the honor and reputation of his country, to think that so little faith hath hitherto been placed in the promises of our legislature, that the debt which was contracted in support of a glorious cause, is reduced to one fifth of its real value, merely for the want of exertions on the part of government to inspire confidence and ensure stability.
The general assembly of Rhode-Island have again negatived the question, whether the state should call a convention to consider the proposed constitution, by a majority of 26.
It was also resolved, in that assembly, that the letters from the New-York convention, be referred to the people, recommending to them to empower their deputies to appoint delegates to meet those which might be appointed by the state of New-York, or other states, to consider and determine the proposed amendments to the constitution of the United States of America.
It is conjectured, says a correspondent, that the mode, about to be adopted by several legislatures, of dividing the states into districts, for the appointment of the federal representatives, will create
disturbances, for, say many, if each district elects its member, he will not be the choice of the people, but of a partial district only, &c. Privilege at elections, continues our correspondent, was ever guarded with jealousy by Americans.
The honorable John Armstrong, jun. the honorable Tench Coxe, and the honorable James R. Reed, Esquires, are elected, by the legislature of Pennsylvania, to represent that state in the Congress of the United States, until the constitution for the government of the said United States shall be in operation.
The 5th inst. has been remarked by persons in Connecticut, and at the northward in this state, to have been exceedingly warm. That day was also moderate in this city.
Yesterday se'nnight the honorable Charles Bidle, Esq. was re-elected secretary of the supreme executive council of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania for the ensuing year.
We learn from Philadelphia, that Messrs. Hallam and Henry, in behalf of themselves and company, viz. the Old American Company of Comedians, lately petitioned the legislature of that state, relative to the establishment of a THEATRE, but that the petition was ordered to lie on the table.
The legislature of Virginia have appointed the following gentlemen to represent that commonwealth in the Congress of the United States for one year from the first inst. viz. Cyrus Griffin, John Brown, James Madison, jun. John Dawson, and Mann Page, Esquires.
A circuit courts is to be holden in King's county, on the 3d day of December next; and the one appointed to be held in Orange county, is postponed for the present.
Last Sunday, agreeably to the notice given, a Charity Sermon was preached at St. Paul's Church, and a considerable collection made for the benefit of the Charity School in this city—A school which reflects the highest honor upon humanity, as it saves thousands from the pit of ignorance and despair.
A gentleman at Amsterdam, writes in the following serious manner to his friend in Baltimore:—“There is no public news but disagreeable; every day affords scenes of horror, and things unheard of in former times. Scarce a day passes but some patriot or other is killed, or beaten unmercifully by the Prince's friends. A receiver of the public taxes, during the last comest, who had acted according to the orders then given him by the magistrates, is now sentenced to be publicly whipped and branded, and afterwards confined for seven years in the work-house, to earn his support by hard labor. The reports concerning the assistance we are to expect from France are various, and little to be depended upon: the minister at the court of Brussels (Mr. Hop) has, however, informed their High Mightinesses, that a large body of French troops were encamped so near to the frontiers of the republic, that it could march in within 36 hours. The widow of the late King of Prussia, who claims the crown, disapproves of every thing the present king has done in favor of the prince of Orange. She is influenced, it is said, by Prince Henry of Prussia, who resides at present at the court of Versailles. A thousand such like reports are circulating every hour of the day. Our public prints are not worth reading; they are always full of speeches to the honor of the house of Orange; while all that is in favor of the patriots is prohibited. When a patriot is insulted in the streets, he can have no satisfaction by law, but, when a patriot disputes with an Orangeman, he feels the severity of the law, by whipping, branding, and imprisonment.”
MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL COURT.
November 4th.
The committee of both houses appointed to consider and report in what particular mode the electors of the president and vice-president, and the senators and representatives in the federal government shall be chosen, reported the following propositions, expressing their opinion of the mode in which the elections aforesaid shall be made.
1. That the electors be chosen by the two houses of the general court, by joint ballot. 2. That the electors meet on the first Wednesday of February, in the town of Boston, for the purpose of voting for president and vice-president; and for their time and travel receive the same compensation as members of the senate are intitled to. 3. That the senators be chosen by the two houses of the legislature, each having a negative upon the other. 4. That the commonwealth be divided into eight districts, the inhabitants of each of which shall be authorised to choose one representative. 5. That each district be formed in such manner as to comprehend one eighth part of the polls in the commonwealth, as nearly as may be, without dividing counties. 6. That the county of Suffolk form one district; Essex, one; Middlesex, one; Hampshire, one; Berkshire, one; Plymouth, and Barnstable, one; York, Cumberland, and Lincoln, one; Bristol, Dukes-County, and Nantucket, one; and the county of Worcester, one. 7. That precepts issue to the towns in the several districts, to vote on the _____ day of _____, for their respective representatives, and to return lists of the votes to the supreme executive, on or before the _____ day of _____; and if any of the districts shall not have given a majority of votes to any one candidate, the supreme executive shall issue new precepts to such district for the choice of a representative out of the two highest candidates first voted for, and that a majority of votes in this last instance, constitute a choice; but in case the two candidates shall have an equal number of votes, the senators and representatives in the state legislature, from such district, shall determine which of the persons so voted for shall be the representative. 8. That one elector be chosen out of each district intitled to elect a representative, and that the two remaining electors be chosen in any part of the state.
The foregoing report was read and accepted by the Hon. senate, and sent down to the house for concurrence.
November 5th.
The committee, appointed to take into consideration the resolve of Congress relative to the choice of electors of a president and vice-president of the United States, and also to consider those parts of the federal constitution which respect the appointment of senators and representatives in the general government, having reported [Tuesday] the house,
this day, resolved themselves into a committee of the whole, and elected the Hon. Mr. Breck for their chairman. After this they proceeded to the consideration of the report of the committee before mentioned.
It became a question of importance with some, whether the electors should be chosen by the people at large, or by their representatives in some corporate body. The constitution, with regard to this, seemed to be somewhat ambiguous, and not so full and explicit as to remove all doubts concerning the mode of appointment. Arguments of equal weight were offered on both sides, with much warmth. It was said by some, that as the constitution was left obscured, the privilege naturally devolved upon the people, and all the power not expressly given up in the constitution, was reserved to them, the exercising of which was an important right which they ought not to be deprived of. This idea was forcibly pursued by Dr. Jarvis, who further added, that he never heard that the people ever complained of being tired with the privilege of electing their governor, lieutenant governor, or any civil officers of the commonwealth; and therefore did not think it very likely they would hesitate in being empowered to elect the electors of the president, &c. of the United States. Such were the arguments made use of in favor of the people choosing the electors. It was urged in answer, that the people were debased from exercising this right (if any they had) in consequence of the time being fixed for the electors to meet; for should the people meet in their several districts to appoint the electors, it was very improbable that any choice would be made; and as there was no authority to warrant a second meeting, this mode of procedure would very probably rob the commonwealth of the important privilege of sharing in the appointment of the first magistrates in America. Some seemed inclined to suppose, the people might still appoint the electors, and all difficulties be removed, if the strong attachment of New-Englandmen to a majority, would give way to a plurality of votes.
November 7.
The Committee of the whole proceeded to consider the 2d article, directing the electors to meet in Boston, &c. which was concurred.
The third article, which provides that in the choice of senators each branch shall have a negative on the other—was then considered, and Mr. Dawes explained the reasons which induced a majority of the reporting committee to agree to it—he said, the federal constitution had directed that the choice should be by the legislatures of the several states—in order to ascertain what was meant by the term legislature, a recurrence was had to the constitution of this state—and it had there been found, that the legislature consisted of the two branches of the general court, acting on each other by a negative—The committee therefore could do no other than report as they had. Some conversation on the subject ensued, but the committee in general considering it as prejudicial to the privileges of the house. The motion for concurrence was negatived by a great majority. The sentiments of the committee were in favor of the election by joint ballot of both houses—as in the choice of delegates to Congress.
The 4th article of the report was much opposed, upon the principle that in the election of representatives, the choice in each district ought to be confined to a person resident in such district; but it was urged, on the other hand, that the legislature had the right only of prescribing the time, place and manner of the choice; and not the qualifications of the persons to be elected—that these qualifications were pointed out in the constitution—and that the requisition of any other would militate therewith—After considerable debate, the question of concurrence was put and carried, yeas 89, nays 72.
The 5th article [which appoints the districts] next came under debate—and was objected to by the members for the county of Berkshire, York, Cumberland, and Lincoln, who conceived that justice was not done them, in the mode reported: the necessity of the measure—and its temporary nature, were urged in favor of it. The debate at length ended in the appointment of a sub-committee, consisting of a member from each county, which is to take the article into consideration—and to new-form the districts, having regard only to the boundaries of towns. Adjourned.
ARRIVED—Hunter, Lisbon; Prince, Charleston; Mercer, Liverpool; Armour, Amsterdam; Mallory, Halifax; Burnham, Liverpool; Brown, Bermuda; Tyrie, Gibraltar; Nicks, New-Province; Barnard, Cape Francois; Jenkins, Richmond; Clark, St. Bartholomew; Biddler, Halifax.
At a Court of Probates of the State of New-York, held at the Probate-Office, in the City of New-York, on the nineteenth Day of November, in the Year of our Lord one Thousand seven Hundred and Eighty-eight.
P R E S E N T,
The Honorable PETER OGILVIE, Esq. Judge of the said Court.
WHEREAS Jacob Coles, administrator, with the will annexed of Peter Totten, late of North-Castle, in the county of Westchester, deceased, hath by his petition, presented to the said judge, set forth, that the said Peter Totten was, at the time of his death, seized of a real estate, within this state, that the petitioner had made a just and true account of the personal estate and debts of the said Peter Totten as far as he had been able to discover the same, and that thereby it appeared that the personal estate of the said Peter Totten, was insufficient to pay his debts, and therefore requested the aid of the said judge in the premises, according to the directions of the act, entitled, “An act for the relief of creditors against heirs, devisees, executors and administrators, and for proving wills respecting real estates;” and the said petitioner hath delivered to the said judge the account in the said petition mentioned; hereupon it is ordered by the said judge, that all persons interested in the estate of the said Peter Totten, do appear before the judge of the said court of probates at the probate office, in the city of New-York, on the twelfth day of January next, to show cause, if any they have, why so much of the real estate whereof the said Peter Totten died seized, should not be sold, as will be sufficient to pay his debts.
75 t.f.
PETER OGILVIE.
Just Published by M. CAREY, At Philadelphia, and to be SOLD By THOMAS ALLEN, Book-Seller, in Queen-Street, New-York (By whom Subscriptions are received) The American Museum, For OCTOBER, 1788. [Contents in our next.]
Lumber Inspector's Office, No. 145, Water-Street, Where Shipper's of Lumber will please to apply to MICHAEL CONNOLLY, Inspector.
New-York, Nov. 13, 1788. 74 t.f.
BROKE GAOL,
ON Friday night the 31st of October, from the Court-house in Goshen, a certain ROBERT JONES, being confined for passing counterfeit money. He is a well set man, near 6 feet high, about 25 years of age, has no natural marks.—Whoever will return him into the said Court-house, shall be entitled to FIVE DOLLARS reward, by me HEZ. HOWELL, Sheriff. Orange County, Nov. 1, 1788. 73 t.f.
ACADEMY,
At Kingston, Ulster County.
THE Trustees of this Academy beg leave to inform their Friends and the Public, that the Latin School is now supplied by a Gentleman from England, who is completely qualified to teach the Latin, Greek, and French Languages, having given every satisfactory Proof of his Abilities in some of the first Seminaries in the United States.
The Trustees flatter themselves from the above Circumstance, the low rate of Boarding and Tuition, together with the healthy and pleasant Situation of Kingston, that a Number may be induced to send their Sons, sufficient to make up a Compliment of Scholars.
Kingston, Esopus, October 29, 1788. 73.4 t.f.
State of New-York, ss.
WHEREAS all the real estate, of which Jacobus Jacobus Blauvelt, late of Orange town, in the county of Orange, carpenter, deceased, died seized, has been sold by an order of Peter Ogilvie, Esq. judge of the court of probates of this state, for the payment of his debts.—All persons who have any demands against the estate of the said Jacobus Jacobus Blauvelt, are hereby notified and desired to produce the same to the said judge of the said court of probates, at the probate office in the city of New-York, on the fifteenth day of January next, when and where a final settlement and distribution of the said estate will be made.—Given under my hand, at the probate office, in the city of New-York, the fifteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-eight.
70 t.f. PETER OGILVIE.
A PUBLIC AUCTION AND COMMISSION STORE
IS OPENED By MARINUS WILLETT, No. 36, Water-Street,
FOR the reception of GOODS to be disposed of on commission, at Public or Private SALE. Money advanced, previous to the sale, if required. The excellency of the situation, and his extensive acquaintance with country merchants and traders, induces him to flatter himself, that his sales will be advantageous to those who please to favor him with their commands.
To be disposed of at PRIVATE SALE, 20 Pancheons Antigua Rum, 40 Do. St. Croix do. 20 Do. Barbadoes do. New-York Rum of the first quality, at all times.
At a Meeting of the Society, for the Relief of Distressed Debtors, held at the House of Mr. John Simmons, the fourth Day of September, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-eight. [On emergency.]
JONATHAN LAWRENCE, Esquire, President for the Evening.
THE Committee of Visitation reporting, that from the great Number of Persons relieved, the Funds of the Society were totally exhausted. That there were several distressed Debtors in Prison, who had no other Subsistence, but what was derived from this Body; and that without such Aid, they must want the common Necessaries of Life. And the said Committee farther reporting, that it would be necessary for the Society, to procure a quantity of Fire-Wood for the Benefit of the Prisoners the ensuing Winter; and that, were the Means in the Power of the Society, the same might be purchased at present, at a very low Rate: whereupon, on Motion, it is unanimously voted, that the Clergy in this City, be earnestly requested, to preach Charity Sermons in their respective Churches, for promoting the important and benevolent Purposes of the Society. And that Doctor Rogers, Mr. Linn, Mr. Beech, and Dr. Kunze be a Committee for making the necessary Arrangements to carry the same into Effect.
Published by order of the Society. 65—t.f. W. COCK, Secretary.
By Order of the Honorable Paul Michaux, Esq. Judge of the Court of Common Pleas of the County of Richmond and State of New-York:
NOTICE is hereby given to Richard Christopher, of Nova-Scotia, in the province of New-Brunswick, an absent and non resident debtor, and to all others whom it may concern, that upon application and due proof made to the said judge (pursuant to an act of the legislature of the state of New-York, entitled, “An act for relief against absenting and absent debtors,” passed the fourth day of April, 1786) by John Christopher, a creditor of the said Richard Christopher, he the said judge has directed all the said Richard Christopher's estate, real and personal, within said county to be seized; and that unless he shall discharge his debts within one year after the publication of this notice, all his estate, real, and personal, will be sold for the payment and satisfaction of his creditors. Dated this 10th day of Sept. 1788. 66—

POET'S CORNER.
THE VILLAGE-SPIRE.
A PASTORAL BALLAD.
B ENEATH yon mountain's shaggy cliff Whence babbling waters lead their way, Palemon, with his fleecy care, Was shelter'd from the sultry ray. Reclin'd upon the mossy turf, He sweetly pip'd his wood-notes wild, In praise of Phebe—gentle Maid! Why she lovely charms his hours beguil'd. Soft Echo listen'd to the Tune, And quick to Phebe bore the found, Which soon as heard, the instant knew, And smiling, sought the enchanting ground. No looner did the nymph appear, Than rapture fill'd Palemon's breast, He rose, and on her modest cheek The kiss of rapture fondly prest. The varying blush her face o'er spread, As lilies damask'd by the rose, While gentle tumults in each breast, Their mutual love in sighs disclose. When sudden open'd to their view, Beneath the branches of an oak, A Village-Spire, with ivy drest! And thus the fond Palemon spoke— Twelve moons, my love, are gone and o'er, Since first my youthful heart you won, Then haste with me to yonder Spire, And there unite our vows, in one. Together bid the rustic pair, With constancy their only wealth, Nor wish'd for more, while thus possess'd Of love, their cot, and rosy health.
ANECDOTES.
A SHORT time ago, a tradesman in London, having discovered the infidelity of his wife, whose ruling passion was avarice, appeared for some time to take no notice of it; at length he sent for her into his chamber, and after producing undeniable proofs of her guilt, coolly requested to know what sum of money she had received as the price of her virtue: she confessed she had yielded to the temptation of a 501. bank note. He immediately compelled her to tend for the adulterer (the son of an eminent merchant) who being arrived, the husband, in the presence of his wife, paid him back 491. 19s. and the remaining shilling, with cool contempt, he gave to his wife, saying, that was enough for any w—e in the kingdom; after which he ordered his porter to turn them both out of doors.
A BLACKSMITH in a neighbouring town, while shoeing a horse, was gazed at by a number of negroes as they were passing by; being a little piqued at being the object of the blacks attention, and attempting to cast a slur upon them, said, "I believe Hell's broke loose."—Yes, Massa (says one) I see de Devil got hold de horse's foot."
GAZE TE EXTRAORDINARY—Huzza! THE KING'S GRACIOUS SPEECHES. The condescending affability of their majesties captivate the whole country. The King, the other morning, met a farmer on the walk in the heat. So friend, said his majesty, you seem very warm. Yes, Sir, said the man; I came along way; for I want to see the king. Well, my friend, said his Majesty, here is something to refresh you after your walk, giving him half-a-guinea. But where, worthy Sir, said the man, can I see the King? Friend, said the monarch, you see him now before you.—It may be easily supposed how highly the man was gratified by so pleasing an instance of royal condescension.
Rising and Setting of the SUN and MOON. ☉ R. ☽ S. R & S. Thursday, Nov. 20, 7 11 4 49 Morn. Friday, 21, 7 12 4 48 0 26. Saturday, 22, 7 12 4 48 1 32. Sunday, 23, 7 13 4 47 2 41. Monday, 24, 7 14 4 46 3 49. Tuesday, 25, 7 15 4 45 4 56. Wednesday, 26, 7 16 4 44 6 5.
HIGH WATER.
D. H. M. Thursday, Nov. 20, 20, 2 23. Friday, 21, 3 21. Saturday, 22, 4 11. Sunday, 23, 5 5. Monday, 24, 5 59. Tuesday, 25, 6 49. Wednesday, 26, 7 43.
Affix of BREAD.
As established December 5, 1787. A Loaf of inspected Superfine Wheat Flower to weigh Two Pound Five Ounces for Six-pence. A Loaf of Rye Flour to weigh One Pound Twelve Ounces for Three-pence.
By his Excellency GEORGE CLINTON, Esq. Governor of the State of New-York, General and Commander in Chief of all the Militia, and Admiral of the Navy thereof.
A PROCLAMATION. (L.S.) WHEREAS events have taken place since the rising of the legislature, which render it necessary that they should be convened at an earlier day than that fixed by law for their annual meeting—I DO THEREFORE, by these presents, require the Senate and Assembly to meet at the City-Hall, of the city of Albany, on MONDAY the EIGHTH Day of DECEMBER next:—Whereof all concerned are to take notice, and govern themselves accordingly. Given under my hand, and the privy seal, at the city of New-York, this thirtieth day of October, in the thirteenth year of the Independence of the said state.
GEO. CLINTON.
Dr. SAMUEL STEARNS, Formerly of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for these fourteen Years past, has spent much of his time in preparing for Publication, THE North American Dispensary.
CONTAINING, I. THE Materia Medica. II. The Operation of Medicines. III. The Art and Science of Pharmacy. IV. The Composition of Medicines. V. An Index of Diseases and their Remedies. VI. The Operations and Medicines used in Surgery.
This is the first Dispensatory that ever was written in America; and will contain not only an account of the virtues of the American productions, and those in other parts of the world, but the complete system of antidotes against all the various maladies, incident to the human race, that has ever been published; being calculated according to modern philosophy, and the experience and observation, of the most celebrated physicians and surgeons in all parts of the known world.
Those that may be minded to furnish themselves with this important work, may do it, by subscribing Three Dollars for each book; one half of the money to be paid at the time of subscribing, and the other at the reception of the books—Those that subscribe for six, will have one gratis.
This work will be printed in quarto upon good paper, with a good type, and be neatly bound and adorned with cuts of the chymical and surgical instruments—It will be put to press as soon as a sufficient number of subscriptions are received.
Subscriptions are taken in by the author, by the Printer hereof, by Benjamin Edes and Son, in Boston, I. Thomas, in Worcester, Messrs. Hallwell and Ruffel, in Bennington, and by many other gentlemen in various parts of the continent.
New-York, October 15, 1788. 97—
Line of Eastern Stages.
THE Public are most respectfully informed, That, after great expence and fatigue, the subscriber, and company, have completed the line of STAGES from this city quite through to Boston. The carriages, which were before heavy and unealy, are now all hung upon coach-springs, and do not fatigue more than a common coach. The carriage from hence to Fairfield, in particular, is a new, well constructed, easy one, which will render the journey pleasurable, instead of a toil as heretofore.
Having thus completed the line, the subscriber will commence on Monday next, the 21st instant, to run the Stages from NEW-YORK to BOSTON, THREE TIMES A WEEK, and continue it until Nov. 1, from which to May 1 twice a week.
The extraordinary cost which he has been at in completing this great work, which he doubts not will be of no small public utility, as well as private advantage and convenience, he hopes will induce many to patronize him. Any business of consequence that may be wished to be transacted between these two capitals, shall be faithfully executed.
The Stages will start from the General Stage Office, in Cortlandt Street, on the Monday, Wednesday and Friday, of every week, at four o'clock, A. M. and will arrive at said place on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, at eight o'clock, P. M. The days and hours of starting and arriving at Hartford and Boston, are the same as at New-York.
The FARE is three-pence lawful money, or four-pence New-York currency, per mile; fourteen pounds of baggage is allowed gratis; one hundred and fifty pounds of baggage pays the same as a passenger, and in that proportion.
The Public's humble servant, LEVI PEASE.
Just PUBLISHED, and to be Sold at this OFFICE, No. 25, Water-street,
The American Calculator, or Counting-House COMPANION,
CONTAINING, A TABLE, ascertaining the value of sundry coins in gold, as regulated by the Chamber of Commerce in this city, and shewing at one view, their value in the several currencies of New-York, North-Carolina, and Great-Britain. A Collection of Tables, shewing, at one view, the amount of any number (under 10,000) of Dollars, French and English Crowns, Half Joes, French and English Guineas, &c. as they pass through the United States. A Table of Guineas, as they pass in England and Ireland. Rules for the ready reducing the currencies of the United-States, from the currency of one state into the currency of any other of the United-States; and for reducing the currencies of the United-States into sterling, and sterling into the currencies of the said states. Rules for reducing English Money into Irish, and Irish Money into English, according to the par of exchange between both kingdoms. Five different tables of the coins of the United-States of America, agreeable to a resolve of Congress of the 8th August, 1787, viz. a Table of Half Dollars, a Table of Dimes, a Table of Cents, and a table of Mills; calculated to render familiar the proper mode of counting said Money.
This Day is published, and to be Sold, By ROBERT HODGE, No. 237, the Corner of King & Queen-street, The Miscellaneous Works
OF PHILIP FRENEAU, Containing his Essays and additional Poems. THIS second volume of our American Author, is replete with the highest sentimental entertainment. Humour, wit, and satire, flow in copious strains.—It requires only to be read to be admired.
Such gentlemen, in this city and state, as honored this vol. with their subscriptions, will be pleased to send for it as soon as convenient.
THE MESSIAH, Attempted from the GERMAN of Mr. KLOPSTOCK.
To those who are acquainted with the merits of this work, little need be said to recommend it.—It is calculated to inspire every pious, every virtuous sentiment:—to fill the mind with an awful reverence and love of the Great and incomprehensible GOD and FATHER of all; with the sublimest and most fervent gratitude to our gracious REDEEMER, and a perfect detestation and abhorrence of all vice. In a word, it claims the patronage of ALL who do not blush at owning themselves Christians, and at paying a humble obedience to the King of Kings.
This piece of religious and moral painting has obtained Mr. Klopstock the honor of being esteemed the Milton of Germany, and is considered as having completed what that favorite son of the British muse had left unfinished.—The beauties of the Messiah equal Paradise Lost:—Paradise Regained, though far from being destitute of merit, is universally allowed to fall much below this work, and is acknowledged to be deficient in that unbounded invention, that beautiful machinery, and variety of characters, which distinguish the rigorous efforts of Mr. Klopstock's genius.
The Messiah is formed upon an extensive and important plan, and includes the sufferings, death, and resurrection of Christ.
S E R M O N S.
By the celebrated RICHARD PRICE, D. D. L. L. D. F. R. S.
The Triumphs of Temper;
A Poem in six Cantos.
By WILLIAM HALEY, Esquire.
Dr. Gregory's Legacy to his Daughter.
Dr. Doddridge's Rise and Progress of Religion.
heridan's Rhetorical Grammar.
The Charms of Melody.—A new Song Book.
Tarver's Travels through the interior Parts of America.
Economy of Human Life.
Webster's American selection of Lessons, in reading and speaking.
Webster's Institute, first and second Part.
Pike's excellent system of Arithmatic.
A few ets of Newton on the Prophecies.
Edwards on the Affections.
Do. History of Redemption, &c. &c.
Also, JUST IMPORTED,
A number of very valuable
B O O K S,
Consisting of
History, Surgery, Divinity, Agriculture, Law, Nautical Books, Philosophy, Dictionaries, Mathematics, Architecture, Biography, Novels, Geography, Miscellanies, Poetry, Plays, &c. &c.
Also an excellent Assortment of STATIONARY.
Genuine Writing Paper of different sizes and prices, Ledgers, Journals, Waste, Letter, and Blank Books of all sizes, Receipt Books, Bonnet and Wrapping Paper, Sealing-Wax, Wafers, Quills, Slates, Lead and slate Pencils, Penknives, elegant Shoe-buckles, Message Cards, &c. &c.
Commissions from the country are thankfully received, and carefully executed. 505—
Wanted to Purchase IMMEDIATELY.
OFFICER's and Soldier's Military Bounty Rights of land, both State and Continental—Also, a large Amount in Indents, Final Settlements, and Pickering's Notes, Apply at No. 196, Water-street.
Starch and Hair-Powder, MANUFACTURED and Sold by Isaac & John Stoutenburgh, At the Corner of Greenwich and Dey-Streets, North-River.
New-York RUM
Of excellent Flavor and good Proof F O R S A L E, By Charles Tillinghaft, At the DISTILLERY, near the New Market in Cherry Street.
REMAINING on HAND, A FEW MAPS,
Of the interior parts of North-America, including the lands intended for the NEW STATES, some of which are selling, and others already disposed of by order of Congress.
ORDERS are just received, by the printer hereof, to sell these Maps at a much cheaper rate than they have yet been sold. The plates were cut and the impressions taken in London, and there sold (without the pamphlet) at One Guinea each.
To accompany this map, and explanatory of it with references to it, will be sold, included in the price of the map, a pamphlet, containing 67 large octavo pages, with plates and figures, entitled, a Topographical Description of Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and North-Carolina, comprehending the rivers Ohio, Kenawha, Sioto, Cheroke, Wabash, Illinois, Mississippi, &c. The climate, soil, and produce, whether animal, vegetable, or mineral; the mountains, creeks, roads, distances, latitudes, &c. and of every part, laid down in the Map.
By THOMAS HUTCHINS, Esq. Late Captain and Engineer in the British army, and now Geographer General to the United States of America. With a plan of the rapids of the Ohio, a plan of the several villages in the Illinois country, a table of the distances between Fort Pitt and the mouth of the Ohio, all engraved upon copper.—And an Appendix, containing Mr. Patrick Kennedy's Journal up the Illinois river, and a correct list of the different nations and tribes of Indians, with the number of fighting men, &c.
Description of the ILLINOIS COUNTRY.
THE Illinois country is in general of a superior soil to any other part of North America that I have seen. It produces fine oak, hickory, cedar, mulberry trees, &c. some dying roots and medicinal plants;—hops, and excellent wild grapes, and in the year 1769, one hundred and ten hogheads of strong wine, were made by the French settlers, from these grapes. A large quantity of sugar is also annually made from the juice of the maple tree; and as the mulberry trees are large and numerous, I presume the making of silk will employ the attention and industry of the settlers, when the country is more fully inhabited than it is at present, and especially as the winters are much more moderate and favourable for the breed of silk worms, than they are in many of the sea coast provinces. Indigo may likewise be successfully cultivated—(but not more than two cuttings in a year) wheat, tea, and Indian corn thrive well, as does every sort of grain and pulse, that is produced in any of the old colonies. Great quantities of tobacco are also yearly raised by the inhabitants of the Illinois, both for their own consumption and that of the Indians; but little has hitherto been exported to Europe. Hemp grows spontaneously, and is of a good texture; its common height is 10 feet, and its thickness three inches (the latter reckoned within about a foot of the root) and with little labour, any quantity may be cultivated. Flax seed has hitherto been only raised in small quantities. There has however been enough produced to shew, that it may be sown to the greatest advantage. Apples, pears, peaches, and all other European fruits succeeded admirably. Iron, copper, and lead mines, as also salt springs, have been discovered in different parts of this territory. The two latter are worked on the Spanish side of the Mississippi, with considerable advantage to the owners. There is plenty of fish in the rivers, particularly Cat, Carp, and Perch, of an uncommon size.—Savannahs, or natural meadows, are both numerous and extensive; yielding excellent grass, and feeding great herds of buffalo, deer, &c. ducks, teal, geese, swans, cranes, pelicans, turkies, pheasants, partridges, &c. such as are seen in the sea coast Colonies, are in the greatest variety and abundance.—In short, every thing, that a reasonable mind can desire, is to be had, or may, with little pains, be produced here.
Masters & Owners of Vessels
Are hereby informed, THAT they may be supplied with cables, large or small, of any length, and cordage of all sizes, made of Petersburg hemp, first quality, at Ivers's Rope-walk, at the head of Mulberry-street, the first left hand turn above the Tea-Water Pump, on such favourable terms as to merit the attention of any gentleman that would wish to lay out his money to the best advantage. Cables spliced, with the addition of any length required, white rope of every sort for city or country use, hambro lines, deep sea lines, band lead lines, log lines, houle lines, and marline, &c. &c. by H. IVERS, Ropemaker.
N. B. The above articles, whether in large or small quantities, will be delivered to any part of the city without expence of cartage to the buyer.
S H R U B,
Of the very best Quality, by the Hoghead, Barrel, or smaller Quantity,
F O R S A L E by Charles Tillinghaft, At his House, nearly opposite the New-Market in Cherry-street.
Just Published, And to be sold at this Printing-Office, The Heidelbergh Catechism; ALSO, The Mothers Catechism.
The highest Price is given by the Printer hereof for clean
L I N E N R A G S.
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