The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1808-03-04 00:00:00

National Intelligencer.
WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VIII.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
NO. 1153.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
FRIDAY, MARCH 4, 1808.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
FOR THE NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER.
MR. SMITH.
Having noticed with some degree of displeasure a statement said to have emanated from a By-stander of parts of Evidence given by me before the Military Court in the case of General Wilkinson, I should not only deem it repugnant to every principle of equity and honor to become the passive instrument of an impression to the prejudice of the honorable Daniel Clark when wholly unacquainted with any circumstance in the slightest degree relative to the affair in issue between him and the General, or of any incident calculated to establish the charge of co-operation with col. Burr, or fact going to shew a connexion between them in the evil designs ascribed to the latter gentleman; but I should conceive it offending against the impulse which actuates all my actions were I not to notice what appears materially to concern myself. His stenographer of mutilated testimony in his selection of expressions, seems to imply that I had heretofore been desirous of concealing an avowed and admitted fact, which can only receive an unfavorable hue from such a desire. It is a circumstance, I have ever openly declared when called upon, (but which I never acknowledged, for an act in itself innocent should not be reluctantly confessed as a sin), that I embarked for N. Orleans in a vessel on board which was Dr. Bollman, a gentleman I had never spoken to prior to sailing from Philadelphia; Mr. Alexander, a barrister, known to me only as a man eminent and respectable in his profession, and a Lady who at that time I had never seen, but who I afterwards had the pleasure of knowing as Madame D'Auvergne. Whether those persons sailed with the privy of col. Burr, or with views in coalescence with his I could not at that time have taken upon myself to determine, for I never understood from either of them by the remotest intimation that designs were contemplated such, as subsequent accusations have charged them with—but that col. Burr was acquainted with my intention to visit New Orleans is manifest from the subjoined transcript of a letter written by him to the hon. Daniel Clark, which till the day of delivery was open to my perusal.
"This will be handed you by my young friend, Lt. Spence of the navy—he was one of the brave corps who gave splendor to our naval character at the Seige of Tripoli and an officer of distinguished merit. I have to request you will shew him every civility, and I need not say how much your attentions will contribute to render his stay amongst you agreeable—introduce him to some of your friends of both sexes."
A. BURR."
This is the letter spoken of in my evidence which I stated to be a simple letter of introduction, the face of which supercedes the necessity of my saying differs widely from a letter of recommendation. It insured to me the polite attentions of Mr. Clark, and whilst the hospitality of his table is still alive in my memory I cannot silently permit its being interpreted to his prejudice, as I never have or shall without resentment suffer any man to offend my feelings or honor. I can safely affirm that neither col. Burr or Dr. Bollman at any period of my acquaintance with them made to me a proposal incompatible with this unfrail principle of conduct.
There is a remark made by this by-stander respecting my having dined with Mr. Clark in company with Dr. Bollman, something too exclusive to accord with my testimony given before the honorable court. It would have bore more the complexion of candor had he stated that I never (to the best of my recollection) had seen Dr. Bollman in the House of Mr. Clark but once at a dinner of which many participated, after nearly a month's residence in New-Orleans.
I have never felt a reluctance in disclosing views separate from and unconnected with col. Burr, and such as I intend no man of spirit shall reflect upon with impunity, induced me to realize an excursion I had long contemplated, suggested by curiosity and the errantry of youth, a tour from collateral consequences pregnant with great uneasiness to me, but which I should have made, had
col. Burr been in London or its Antipodes! Dr. Bollman knew of my purpose to make this jaunt, for he had often heard me express this intention; and a few days before my departure requested me to take charge of a letter to col. Burr whom he said would be in the Western country and probably at Nashville, and I have an impression that Madame D'Auvergne solicited the same favor.
I knew Col. Burr as the ex-Vice-President of the United States. He had but just abdicated this dignified situation; he had never been accused of designs at variance with the interest of his country, nor had the breath of suspicion sullied the reputation which had exalted him to the post of honor! His esteem was no odium nor was his acquaintance a censure. Under such circumstances I took charge of a letter—On a similar occasion where is he who could so far deviate from politeness as to refuse. Mr. Clark on my leaving New-Orleans had the kindness to furnish me with a letter of introduction which contained merely a repetition of what col. Burr had written.
This Mr. Smith I wish you to insert as an annotation to the statement I noticed in your paper of the 24th ult. to explain and dissipate the fallacious expression, and to do justice to one who has the
honor to remain, your obt. servant, ROBERT T. SPENCE. Washington, March 1, 1808.
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
TUESDAY, MARCH 1.
The Speaker laid before the House a communication from the Secretary of the Treasury, inclosing the following report:
TREASURY DEPARTMENT, February 27th, 1808.
Sir, I have the honor to transmit herewith a statement of goods, wares and merchandise exported from the United States, during one year prior to the first day of October, 1807, and amounting to 108,343,130 dollars.
The goods, wares and merchandise of domestic growth, or manufacture, included in this statement are estimated at Dollars 48,699,592 And those of foreign growth or manufacture, at 59,643,558
108,343,150 The foreign goods may be divided into three classes, viz.
1st. Articles on the importation of which no duty had been collected, they being free of duty by law, Dollars 2,080,114
2d. Articles liable to duty, and which were on re-exportation thereof, entitled to drawback, 48,205,943
3d. Articles liable to duty, but which were not, on re-exportation thereof, entitled to drawback, 9,357,501
59,643,558
The duties collected on the importation of the articles of the third class, and which not being paid by consumers within the United States, are derived directly from the carrying trade, amount to 1,393,877 dollars, exclusively of the additional duties designated by the name of "Mediterranean fund."
The articles of domestic growth or manufacture, exported during the period aforesaid, may be arranged under the following heads, viz.
Produce of the sea, Dollars 2,804,000 Forest, 5,476,000 Agriculture, 37,832,000 Manufactures, 2,409,000 Uncertain, 179,000
48,700,000
I have the honor to be, With great respect, Sir,
Your obedient servant, ALBERT GALLATIN,
The honorable The Speaker
of the House of Representatives. The report and documents were ordered to be printed.
Mr. Van Rensselaer reported a bill
to continue in force an act to extend jurisdiction in certain cases to judges of state courts; which was twice read and referred to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Dawson reported a bill authorising the sale of public arms; which was twice read and referred to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Van Horne laid upon the table the following resolution, which had been rendered necessary in his view from the debate which had taken place on the contract bill:
Resolved, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, two thirds of both Houses concurring therein, that the following amendment to the constitution of the United States, be proposed to the Legislatures of the several states, which when ratified by the Legislatures of three-fourths of the said states, shall be valid to all intents and purposes as part of the said constitution.
No person shall be eligible as Senator or Representative in Congress who shall hold any office under or be bound by any contract entered into with the government of the U. S. or any department or officer or agent thereof at the time the election shall take place. Nor shall any Senator or Representative in Congress, if he shall qualify as such, hold any civil office or appointment under the government of the United States or make any contract with any department or officer thereof during the time for which he shall be elected.
Mr. Basset moved for the order of the day on the bill concerning public contracts—motion negatived, 47 to 39.
Mr. Tallmadge from the committee to whom was referred the President's message of the 26th ult., reported a bill authorizing a detachment of the militia.—Twice read and referred to a committee of the whole.
On motion of Mr. Dawson, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill authorizing the President of the United States to raise an additional military force—Mr. Basset in the chair.
The bill is reported in conformity to the letter of the Secretary of War on this subject, with a few variations in detail. The bill contemplates the appointment of two major generals, contrary to the recommendation of the Secretary of War.
On motion of Mr. Tallmadge, all that part relating to major generals, was struck out, Ayes 74.
Several amendments were made to the details of the various sections not affecting the general object of the bill.
Mr. Blount wished every person entering into the service at the United States to know on what conditions they entered.
To save a repetition of the trouble occasioned by former applications on the same subject, he moved to add the following amendment to the end of the 7th section:
"No commissioned officer, non-commissioned officer, musician or private shall, after being discharged, be allowed to set up any claim for half pay, commutation or pension, except he shall have been disabled by known wounds received in actual service."
This amendment was supported by Mr. Blount, and opposed by Messrs. Dawson, Gardner, Rhea, Tallmadge, Durrell, Smilie and Taylor. The principal objection to this was that the 8th section of the bill goes to the same object. It was negatived by a large majority.
Mr. Helms offered an additional section, fixing the price of undrawn rations, at twenty-five cents each.
After a representation from Mr. Dawson, that this object was already before a committee, and that though favorable to the object, he must vote against it here,
Mr. Helms withdrew his amendment.
Mr. Blount said if there should be war, it would be necessary to draw out so many militia as that a major general of militia might be included in the militia who would take command of the regular forces in preference to regular brigadier-generals. To avert this evil, he moved a new section, authorizing the President when actual war with any nation shall
exist, to appoint two major-generals.—Negatived, Ayes 22.
Mr. Rhea moved to strike out the limitation to pay of the army for any longer time than while in actual service.—Negatived, Ayes 4.
On motion of Mr. Dawson, the committee rose, and reported the bill as amended. Mr. D. stated that he did not intend at this time to call up the report, and it lies on the table of course.
The House went into a committee of the whole, 48 to 34, on the bill concerning public contracts—Mr. Curts in the chair.
Mr. Quincy's motion for striking out the proviso at the end of the first section, was carried, 40 to 37.
Mr. Kelly proposed an amendment for the limiting the law so as to comport with that part of the constitution which says that no person shall hold an office in the creation of which he had a vote—which after a lengthy discussion was negatived by a large majority.
The committee then rose and obtained leave to sit again, 55 to 34.
A communication was received from the Secretary of State inclosing documents respecting American seamen which was referred to a committee appointed to consider the measures necessary for the security and protection of American seamen.
(BY AUTHORITY.)
AN ACT
For the relief of Samuel Whiting. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the secretary of the treasury be, and is hereby authorized and directed to pay to Samuel Whiting four hundred and forty dollars, in satisfaction of the said Samuel Whiting's claim for services rendered and expenses incurred, pursuant to the directions of the postmaster general, in the apprehending and prosecuting one Henry Deming, late a deputy post-master at Hinsdale, in Massachusetts, who was indicted in the circuit court of the United States at Boston, for embezzling certain letters which came to his possession, containing bank notes belonging to the said Samuel Whiting.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO: CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. February 25, 1808.
APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
Making additional compensation to the Marshals of the Districts of North-Carolina and New-Jersey.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That from and after the last day of March next, there shall be paid annually to the Marshal for the district of North-Carolina the sum of four hundred dollars; to the Marshal for the district of New-Jersey the sum of two hundred dollars, in addition to the fees and emoluments heretofore allowed them by law.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO: CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. February 25, 1808.
APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
To provide for the payment of certain expenses incurred in the enquiry into the conduct of John Smith, a Senator from the state of Ohio.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the accounting officers of the Treasury be, and they are hereby directed to audit and settle the accounts of all persons who may have claims against the United States, for expenses incurred in the enquiry into the conduct of John Smith, a Senator of the United States, for the state of Ohio, as an alleged associate of Aaron Burr; which expenses may have been authorized by the committee of Enquiry, or by order of the Se-
nate: Provided, That the said accounts shall have been first certified, by the Chairman of the committee, or by the Secretary of the Senate.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That to every witness before the said committee of Enquiry or before the Senate upon the said enquiry, there shall be allowed and paid, for every day's attendance thereon, the sum of three dollars. And to defray the said expenses, there is hereby appropriated the sum of five hundred dollars, to be paid from any monies in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
GEO: CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States and President of the Senate. February 19, 1808.
APPROVED,
TH: JEFFERSON.
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS a treaty between the United States and the Choctaw nation of Indians, was concluded in the Chickasaw country on the sixteenth day of November one thousand eight hundred and five, and was duly ratified and confirmed by the President of the United States on the twenty-seventh day of January in the present year, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, which treaty is in the words following, to wit:
A TREATY OF LIMITS BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, AND THE CHOCTAW NATION OF INDIANS.
THOMAS JEFFERSON, President of the United States of America, by JAMES ROBERTSON of Tennessee, and SILAS DINSMOOR of New Hampshire, agents of the United States to the Choctaws, Commissioners Plenipotentiary of the United States on the one part, and the Mingoes, Chiefs and Warriors of the Choctaw Nation of Indians in Council assembled on the other part, have entered into the following agreement, viz.
ARTICLE 1st. The Mingoes, Chiefs and Warriors of the Choctaw nation of Indians in behalf of themselves, and the said nation do by these presents, cede to the United States of America, all the lands to which they now have or ever had claim, lying to the right of the following lines, to say. Beginning at a branch of the Hoochatchito where the same is intersected by the present Choctaw boundary and also by the path leading from Natchez to the county of Washington usually called M c Clarey's path, thence Eastwardly along M c Clarey's path, to the East or left bank of Pearl river, thence on such a direct line as would touch the lower end of a bluff on the left bank of Chickasawhay river the first above the Hoochatchito town, called broken bluff to a point within four miles of the broken bluff, thence in a direct line nearly parallel with the river to a point whence an East line of four miles in length will intersect the river below the lowest settlement at present occupied and improved in the Hoochatchito town, thence still East four miles, thence in a direct line nearly parallel with the river to a point on a line to be run from the lower end of the broken bluff to Faluktabunnee on the Tombigbee river four miles from the broken bluff, thence along the said line to Faluktabunnee, thence east to the boundary between the Creeks and Choctaws on the ridge dividing the waters running into the Alabama from those running into Tombigbee, thence Southwardly along the said ridge and boundary to the Southern point of the Choctaw claim. Reserving a tract of two miles square run on Meridians and parallels so as to include the houses and improvements in the town of Taketche-poon, and reserving also, a tract of five thousand one hundred and twenty acres, beginning at a post on the left bank of Tombigbee river opposite the lower end of M c Clarey's path, thence ascending the river four miles front and two back, one half for the use of Alzira, the other half for the use of Sophia, daughters of Samuel Mitchell by Molly, a Choctaw woman. The latter receive to be subject to the same laws and regulations as may be established in the circumjacent country; and the said Mingoes of the Choctaws, request that the government of the United States may confirm the title of the reserve in the said Alzira and Sophia.
ART. 2nd. For and in consideration of the foregoing cession made part of the Choctaw nation, and in full satisfaction for the same, the commissioners of the United States do hereby covenant and agree with the said nation in behalf of the United States, that the said nation shall pay to the said nation fifty thousand five hundred dollars, for the following purposes, to wit:
Forty-eight thousand dollars to enable the Mingoes to discharge the debt due to their merchants and traders; and

also to pay for the depredations committed on stock, and other property by evil disposed persons of the said Choctaw nation, two thousand five hundred dollars to be paid to John Pitchlynn, to compensate him for certain losses sustained in the Choctaw country and as a grateful testimonial of the nation's esteem. And the said states shall also pay annually to the said Choctaws, for the use of the nation, three thousand dollars in such goods (at neat cost of Philadelphia) as the Mingo's may choose, they giving at least one year's notice of such choice.
ART. 3d. The commissioners of the United States on the part of the said states engage to give to each of the three great Medal Mingo's, Pukabunabee Mingo, Hoomastubbee and Pooshamatana, five hundred dollars, in consideration of past services in their nation, and also to pay to each of them an annuity of one hundred and fifty dollars during their continuance in office. It is perfectly understood that neither of those great Medal Mingo's is to share any part of the general annuity of the nation.
ART. 4th. The Mingo's, chiefs and warriors of the Choctaws certify that a tract of land not exceeding fifteen hundred acres situated between the Tombigbee river and Jackson's Creek, the front or river line extending down the river from a blazed white oak standing on the left bank of the Tombigbee near the head of the shoal next above Hobokenoopa and claimed by John McGrew, was in fact granted to the said McGrew by Opiomingo Hemitta and others many years ago, and they respectfully request the government of the United States to establish the claim of the said McGrew, to the said fifteen hundred acres.
ART. 5th. The two contracting parties covenant and agree that the boundary as described in the second article, shall be ascertained and plainly marked in such way and manner as the President of the United States may direct in the presence of three persons to be appointed by the said nation, one from each of the great Medal district, each of whom shall receive for this service two dollars per day during his actual attendance, and the Choctaws shall have due and reasonable notice of the place where and time when the operation shall commence.
ART. 6th. The lease granted for establishments on the roads leading through the Choctaw country is hereby confirmed in all its conditions, and except in the alteration of boundary, nothing in this instrument shall affect or change any of the pre-existing obligations of the contracting parties.
ART. 7th. This treaty shall take effect and become reciprocally obligatory so soon as the same shall have been ratified by the President of the United States of America, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate of the said United States.
Done on Mount Dexter, in Pookah-pukunuk in the Choctaw country, this sixteenth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and five, and of the independence of the United States of America the thirtieth.
COMMISSIONERS. JAMES ROBERTSON, (L S) SILAS DINSMOOR, (L S)
GREAT MEDAL MINGOES.
Pukabunabee, his M mark, (L S) Mingo Hoomastubbee, his M mark, (L S) Pooshamatana, his M mark, (L S)
CHIEFS AND WARRIORS.
 O-kia-na-mee, his M mark, (L S)  Tuskahubbee, his M mark, (L S)  James Perry, his M mark, (L S)  Levi Perry, his M mark, (L S)  Isaac Perry, his M mark, (L S)  William Tuskahubbee, (L S)  John Carnes, his M mark, (L S)  Potouhooma, his M mark, (L S)  Hoomahooma, his M mark, (L S)  Touhouhooma, his M mark, (L S)  George James, his M mark, (L S)  Robert McClure, his M mark, (L S)  Tuckahumbee, his M mark, (L S)  Hatukubeehouahua, his M mark, (L S)  Pishoomastubbee, his M mark, (L S)  Amog-lah, his M mark, (L S)  Lewis Linsay, his M mark, (L S)  James Pitchlynn, his M mark, (L S)  Pashche Ekanalab, his M mark, (L S)  Panshechoomubba, his M mark, (L S) 
Witnesses present at signing and sealing.
 Thomas Augustine Cliburne, Secretary to the Commissioners,  John McKee,  Samuel Mitchell, United States agent to the Chickasaws,  William his M mark, Colbert of the Chickasaws,  Lewis Ward,  Charles Juzan,  Garrul E. Nelson,  David Chote,  Nathaniel Folsom,  Mat. Mackey,  Lewis Lesto,  John Pitchlynn, United States Interpreter,  Will. Tuckee, assistant Interpreter. 
NOW THEREFORE, to the end that the said treaty may be observed and performed with good faith on the part of the United States, I have caused the premises to be made public, and I do hereby enjoin and require all persons bearing office, civil or military, within the United States, and all others, citizens or inhabitants thereof, or being within the same, faithfully to observe and fulfil the said treaty, and every article and clause thereof.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have caused the seal of the United States to be affixed to these presents, and signed the same with my hand.
DONE at the city of Washington the twenty-fifth day of February in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eight,
and of the Independence of the United States of America the thirty-second. TH: JEFFERSON. By the President. JAMES MADISON, Secretary of State.
CONGRESS. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Debate on the passage of the bill in addition to an act entitled "An act supplementary to an act, entitled "An act laying an EMBARGO, &c."
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29. The bill having been read the third time,
Mr. LIVERMORE said it would be recollected that he had not in the course of the various discussions on this bill troubled the House with many observations, though he had avowed his intention to oppose the bill, and offer reasons why it ought not to pass. I shall not now, said he, go fully into a discussion of what has been conceived the policy of the original embargo law, because a refusal to pass this will not do away the ill effects of that law; but as I conceive this to be a tissue of the same evil, it is my bounden duty to offer my objections to its passage.
This act is not, I conceive, founded on the message of the President of the United States or the reasons therein given for passing the embargo law. If I understood the reasons, they were different from what must be carried into effect by the passage of this law. It was therein said that such was our situation that if our vessels were suffered to depart from our harbors they would be liable to capture and our citizens would lose their property. This I understood to be the reason for passing the embargo law, although I did not conceive it well founded, and endeavored with all my powers to combat it. Although those reasons should have been well founded, the same reasons do not exist for carrying into effect the present law, which contemplates nothing more than to prevent the citizens of the U. States from carrying on the small remnant of commerce which is saved from the fangs of the embargo. It is not rescuing our ships from capture, but preventing our citizens who live in situations from which they might carry on their commerce with success, from selling to their neighbors their produce and receiving from them those articles which they need. The operation of this law will be confined to the frontier states; to Georgia and Vermont and the Eastern part of Massachusetts. The utmost therefor in which the law is to operate in these states, is to prevent the people, living on the borders from carrying their produce into Canada, Nova Scotia or Florida—from carrying on commerce for what they conceive to be for their benefit. There certainly can be nothing in the reasons assigned for the imposition of an embargo in the first instance which can operate in favor of the passage of this law. There is no danger that this produce would be liable to capture. What then is the motive for this bill? To bring some foreign nation to terms, we are told. Now let us consider whether preventing this trade can possibly have this effect—whether preventing the people of Vermont or Georgia from carrying their produce to Canada or Florida are means of bringing nations to a disposition to "do us justice."
Take the case of Great-Britain for instance. If the King of Great-Britain has seen cause to issue a proclamation to prevent trade to France & her dependencies, is it possible that the prohibition contained in this law can have any effect to induce him to repeal it? The very supposition is absurd. There is nothing in it. If we can, by inhibiting this small trade do ourselves an essential injury, we do not affect any other power. Can it operate on France? Certainly not. Upon what nation then can it operate? There really appears to be nothing in the supposed operation of this law on any foreign nation, and this act is supported by a kind of enthusiasm not founded in reason. Reason has no agency in it; it is pushed on with a kind of terror which may be creditable to those professing it. There seems to be a kind of magic in the business. Our country is in a critical state; we are almost at war with all the nations of the earth; and therefore it seems that gentlemen are willing to prevent this small trade from being beneficial to the people who will be affected, and which can do no injury whatever to the United States.
I conceive that there has prevailed in this House a false sentiment with respect to commerce. I have
observed with pain the sentiments expressed in the House; indeed I have heard gentlemen whose reputations stand as high as any in this body declare that commerce is inimical to agriculture; that agriculture is beneficial, & commerce injurious; as if there actually existed a warfare between the two. The fact is the reverse; and I will lay down this broad position and endeavor to prove it, that agriculture is of little or no service to mankind without commerce; that they go hand and hand, and without the existence of both, that neither would be of much service. I wish gentlemen candidly to examine, and see whether there be not truth in the position; that commerce of so much service to agriculture, that agriculture is of little service without it.
What is commerce? The exchange of one article for another; the exchange of a superfluous article for one which we stand in need of. It is absolutely necessary for our very existence, not as relates to more animal life, but to our existence with convenience. Society is founded on it.
It is supposed by some that agriculture can exist without commerce. Take a case by way of illustration, and I believe it would run with the same propriety through every situation in life. Take the case of a planter, a Virginian if you chuse, possessed of immense wealth, of the means of cultivating his lands which produce abundantly. Take a journal of the gentleman's life for a single day, and see what is his situation. In the morning he rises from his couch, and clothes himself in the manufactures of Britain, or perhaps of other countries. The instant he rises, then he avails himself of the conveniences of commerce. Sitting down to his breakfast he makes use of the productions of East or West India; he walks upon the fabric of Turkey or Persia; the very wood of which his furniture is constructed is brought from the shores of the Carribean sea, and the mirror in which he adjusts his cravat of East-India manufacture, is the production of the European artist; the very handles of his knives are procured from a sea monster found on the banks of St. Laurence and coast of Labrador, and the very blades are the manufacture of England, from the mines of Russia or Sweden. He seems to ransack the whole world, both earth and sea for his conveniences. His food would be insipid if not seasoned with the spices of India; his drink is from the plains of Champagne, Burgundy or the African islands: in the evening his very candlesticks are from the mines of Mexico or Peru; and the candles with which he lights his room, are taken from the head of a sea monster, an inhabitant of the Arctic circles. If he be sick, he derives medicine from Turkey, Asia, or the interior of South America. What will he do for all these if commerce be obstructed? He cannot procure them from the product of his island; he is more than mortal if he can do this. Whence then? From commerce alone, on which he depends not only for his luxuries and conveniences, but also his necessaries. Take the same gentleman and strip him of the benefits of commerce, and see what is his character. In the first place it is true that his oxen cover the hills, and the sheep bleat in his pastures; he may eat the flesh, but cannot preserve it from day to day: Let him take their fleece if he can, and convert it into clothing. An inhabitant of Kamtschatka, or an Osage Indian would look more like a civilized being than would this man, clothed in a dress of his own manufacture. Those gentlemen who talk of retiring within their own shell, are egregiously mistaken in their calculations, nature has not given them like a tortoise a shell to retire into. Take commerce away from them, and let them raise their hundreds or thousands of hogsheads of tobacco; let their cotton fill their stores, what is it to them? Nothing. It is all of no benefit whatever, except we have commerce. It is astonishing to hear gentlemen advance the sentiment that by agriculture we have all the conveniences of life, without the aid of commerce. I have heard a gentleman in this House rise and say that he would never trust commercial men with power. That gentleman knows nothing of commercial men. I can aver, that having some knowledge of them, I view them as the most honorable, the most benevolent, and in every respect the most important class of men in society. There is no character which can be exhibited in a more honorable and serviceable point of view than the real merchant. I might go farther than I have gone in considering commerce as necessary for the support of agriculture: why the very tools necessary to work the materials into a convenient dwelling or habitation must be brought by commerce. Could the gentleman live in a mere hut thrown up of logs, or perhaps burrow in the ground like a Kamschat-
kadale? I wish the gentleman seriously to consider this, and when he does he will see the bearing of this argument against the embargo, which is an axe laid to the very root of commerce. How long it will continue or what shape it will assume I know not. But not intending to discuss the original measure I will confine myself to the question before the House. Notwithstanding the embargo, those citizens who live on the borders of foreign territories have carried on a trade with their neighbours, selling their superfluous produce to them. It is to prevent traffic of this kind that the bill now on its passage is intended. If the bill does not pass, although commerce will not exist in a flourishing state, it will not be entirely shackled as respects these people. I therefore contend against it, and not only declare the act unnecessary, but cruel and oppressive.
I would wish to draw the attention of gentlemen who come from the tobacco and cotton country, or where these articles are cultivated for exportation, and bring such immense riches to their constituents. It is said that merchants are becoming more reconciled to this measure, and that some who are called federal merchants have approved the embargo. I can easily believe it to be the case in some degree; and I must make an observation on this point. It is a fact that the embargo fell most heavily on merchants, operated on their business, threw them out of the means of gaining a subsistence, and perhaps of supporting their credit. I have heard it observed that it was no matter how soon these gentlemen were driven on to a settlement of their accounts. Commerce is carried on altogether by credit; it is similar in its operations to a bank. It is known that banks issue bills, or make loans to double the amount of their capital, or money in their vaults, otherwise they would derive no profit from the institution; they have the means of paying these bills when presented, and derive a profit from their loans. So it is with the merchant; if immediately called upon to pay all his debts he may not be able to do it; but if permitted to carry on his commerce he has the means of paying his debts, and deriving profit from his credit. Why then should the legislature drive him to a settlement of his accounts in this way? It is a most cruel proceeding.
What I wished to call the attention of southern gentlemen to is this; that there is a speculation going forward in the U. States, I believe greater than ever was known in the country since its settlement, even greater than the noted speculation in the purchase of loan-office and final settlement certificates. What is it? The buying up of these articles at half their value by monied men from those who will be under the necessity of selling. The honest planter or independent gentleman will be compelled to sell them for one half, or less than one half their value, and the description of persons I have mentioned will derive profit from the embargo. Although the passage of the present law will not create the speculation altogether, it goes to accelerate it.
Now, unless gentlemen can point out the necessity of this law, I cannot agree to it. If it be to bring Great Britain to terms, or to induce her to offer terms, it is the most childish thing that ever entered into a man's head. If (as it is said) she refuses us justice, it is not to be supposed that driving the nation into this situation, can alter a decree or measure which she has deemed necessary to support herself. To suppose such an operation is childish; and I advance this assertion freely, because it proceeds from the best consideration I can give the subject.
Another argument advanced by gentlemen in favor of this bill is very fallacious. If the embargo be an evil, they say, why should one description of persons be more privileged than another? If the contest be merely to do the people as much injury as possible, the enquiry might be reasonable, whether one portion should be exempt, while another portion of our citizens are subject to the injury. As we cannot mean to injure them by the embargo, when its only object was to preserve their property, gentlemen when they seriously consider the subject, will say that this is not a just argument in favor of the passage of the law.
I will again request gentlemen to point out what benefit can result to the United States by the passage of this law. If it is to compel foreign nations to do what we conceive to be justice, there can be nothing in it. It is idle to suppose that the preventing a few citizens in Vermont from trading with the Canadians, will prevent Great-Britain from doing what she otherwise would. The very issuing of the proclamation of England shows that the ministry of that nation considered it essential to the
preservation of their commerce and to combat France. Far from this bill having the proposed effect, the British had rather give up Canada altogether than give up a little of what they consider so necessary to support their true interest. If the proclamation be considered or found not necessary, they will revoke it; but if it be considered necessary, what this country can do will have no effect whatever. I may say the same as to Georgia—that the prohibition of the trade of the citizens of that state will have no effect on any political operation between this and the old world. Being convinced that this is the case, and that the bill will only go to injure a portion of our own citizens without doing the least possible good, I cannot vote for it.
But above all the fishermen are to make oath that they have sold no fish or part of their fare, while out on their voyage. The fishermen might as well throw their fish overboard as go to the British territories to sell them. There have been instances in which they have gone to France; but now, when the French shores are lined with cruisers, there is no danger of their attempting it. Gentlemen ask what injury can it do them, to come forward and make this oath? Being a troublesome thing for which there exists not the least necessity, it is injurious to their liberty to no thing else. A fisherman might sell some part of his cargo to vessels in absolute distress. Now if this act is carried into effect, the poor man is prohibited from doing this or of exchanging any part of his fare for those small articles of which he stands in need. If he does it he is liable to a heavy penalty; if not he is liable to suffer for the want.
But I need not single out a particular part of the bill, for I object to the whole. If any good can result from it let gentlemen come forward and shew it.
Mr. DANA said he rose, as he had some agency in perfecting the provisions of this bill, to say that whenever a general principle had been adopted, although he might have been opposed to that bill, he would render his assistance to construct the provisions of a bill amendatory of the original bill so as to connect it perfectly with the original principle. But as he did not wish to pledge himself to support the embargo, and as it might be supposed by some that if he voted for this bill his opinion of the original measure had changed, he should vote against it.
Mr. GARDNER said before the bill passed, he would beg the attention of the House while he stated as briefly as he could, the objections which he had to the bill, and which satisfied his mind of the impropriety of passing it. This bill appeared on the face of it to be a bill supplementary to an act supplementary to the law laying an embargo. The first thing, said he, which strikes the mind on this subject, or at least strikes my mind, is the improper name which has been given to the bill. This bill is in my conception not one which is intended to render more perfect or more certain the operation of the original embargo act; it does not proceed upon the principle, nor is bottomed upon the ground of the original embargo. It is totally a new measure, in its principles and tendency totally different from the one to which it is said to be supplementary. It is different as to the causes in which it originated, and as to the operation it will have.
I have observed on a former occasion that the object professed by the President when the embargo was recommended to the House, the end which he intended to secure, the only object which he intended to attain on that occasion, if the message on the subject is a document from which we can infer his meaning or object, was to secure within our ports and harbors the ships and vessels of the U. States—not to cut off the trade of the country, because that trade every one knew to be beneficial. The cessation of commerce is an inevitable and unfortunate consequence of the measure, which it was thought necessary to adopt, but could not be its object or intention. It is an evil which we should have avoided if we could consistently with the principal measure. I ask gentlemen to advert to the principle and not to take what was unfortunately the effect for the object of laying an embargo. If this question were at this time put to the House, supposing a way by which we could secure in our ports and harbors our ships and vessels, by which we could secure the continuance of our seamen in the country at the same time give to commerce as much liberty as possible, should we not all be extremely happy to agree to it, to have

on the one hand all the advantages of the embargo, upon a supposition that advantage will result, and all the advantages of trade on the other! There could have been no difference of opinion on the subject. We have gone on however from the time of the adoption of the original embargo, and acting apparently on the idea that the effect of this measure was its object. We have by the first embargo law and the addition to it, rendered secure our ships and vessels in the ports of the U. States. The measure of embargo then is in complete operation since the passage of the second law on the subject, and therefore this bill is not necessary, in my conception, to the operation of the embargo act. What then is the leading feature of this bill? That the citizens of the U. S. shall have no trade, no commerce, no intercourse of any description with the subjects of any power whatever. I would ask every candid gentleman whether this was the object of the embargo act, or whether it is not a new object? Assuredly it is. It is a non-intercourse law, and ought to be called by that name. The question ought to have been fairly and plainly propounded to the people of the U. States whether they are prepared for a law which will prevent them from trafficking out of their own territorial line. We ought to have all matters of this sort fairly proposed to us, that we may exercise a sound judgment of their propriety.
I complain for other reasons of this mode of legislation. The subject is not presented to us as it ought to be. This bill is calculated to lead farther on those who have given a reluctant assent to the former measure; when in fact and truth it is the introduction of a new principle. I cannot be mistaken in saying that the first bill contemplated one measure and this present bill another. Trusting therefore that there can be no difficulty upon the point that this is in truth a non-intercourse bill, giving to the original embargo act the perfect character of a non-intercourse law, converting its operation from what was its original intent to a new object, and having heard no argument in the House to show the policy or necessity of the measure, as I consider it a new step, assumed by the United States, and as it will affect us in a new way, I cannot yield my assent to it. I can find no reasons for it. I will ask this plain question. Will the citizens of foreign powers on our frontiers who are in the habit of trafficking across the line gain or lose more than our own by this measure? Will it be felt more by our own citizens or by the subjects of those territories nearest to ours? Our own, I answer. It may not be levelled at them, but I have had representations from the frontier settlements of New-York on the subject, stating that it is calculated to operate on them most desolately. A great portion of those settlements are at the distance of from 100 to 150 miles from any settlement in the U. States from which they can obtain the necessary articles of which they stand in need. In these countries there is little money. The articles they use are of necessity the result of exchange. Now this bill is a positive hardship which will bring distress on all the settlers on the vast line of our frontier; it operates directly on them and in what respect can it benefit the country? Allowing that private interest must be sacrificed to public good, it must first be shewn how the public good will be promoted by the sacrifice. We ought not say, because it is a sacrifice, that good must result—that because we oppress a part of the country we do the rest a service.
Inconvenience and distress must be the result of the operation of the 4th section of this bill (prohibiting exportation by land.) Laying out of view all objection to the original measure, in what point of view are we benefited by this bill. Place it in the best light in which you can view it, you will distress our own citizens in the same proportion as the subjects of any foreign power. This will be a mutual suffering, and one way of trying which can go farthest in deprivation. But while making this experiment, what do we gain? We receive no benefit; we distress a part of our citizens without doing any public good. It is therefore because I cannot consent to render more distressed those frontier settlers who are already distressed enough, and whose situation in the best of times is uneasy, that I object to it.
It will be seen that these remarks have no relation to any partiality to the King of Spain on the south, or the King of G. Britain on the north. Our citizens in both situations will probably suffer, and it cannot therefore be from partiality to either nation that I object to the fourth section of this bill. It is because none are safe from
the universal suffering that I object to the passage of this bill. How far, during a negotiation with a foreign power, it is proper as a matter of policy to take measures with a view as it is said to bring them to terms, I shall not at the present moment discuss. This is not important to the passage of the bill. I rest my objection to this bill solely on the ground that it is useless even with a view to carry into effect the general purpose of the embargo law.
(Debate to be continued.) WASHINGTON CITY. FRIDAY, MARCH 4.
We state, upon respectable authority, that a conversation, reported in some of the public prints, as having passed between Mr. Madison and Mr. Rose, respecting the President's Proclamation, did not take place.
COMMUNICATION. A meeting took place on the morning of the day before yesterday between Mr. Gardener of New-York and Mr. George W. Campbell of Tennessee, in which Mr. Gardener was wounded; but we are happy to say that the surgeons have ascertained it to be only a flesh wound, and not likely to be attended by any dangerous consequences. The gentlemen, we understand, both behaved with great bravery and coolness on the ground.
It will be seen by the following article, under the Copenhagen head, that defence by means of Gun-Boats is about being adopted by the Danish nation on an extensive scale. Perceiving the Quixotism, in her present condition, of attempting to meet her enemy on the ocean, she is wisely making arrangements to guard against the unprepared nation must expect from the tyrant of the seas, unless abject enough to crouch to her demand of exclusive commerce, and to contribute to the gratification of her avarice. Under these circumstances nothing can be more desirable than that neutral nations should protect themselves so strongly, by a development of all their internal resources, as to punish any repetition of those outrages which have recently been perpetrated on Denmark. Should any number of Gun Boats answer this end, they may emphatically and truly be styled "the cheap defence of nations."
Copenhagen, December 18. If ever a nation has shown a lively attachment to its Sovereign, proved its patriotism and displayed energy in trying circumstances, it has been the Danish nation. Since the invasion of the English, but especially since the return of the Prince Royal to Copenhagen, every citizen of the monarchy has hastened to the succor of his country, with all the means he had at command. High and low are equally penetrated with a just indignation against the common enemy and seek to aid their Sovereign in a just vengeance for the insult offered their king and country. The Chasseurs of the King have set the example. These brave men not content with offering their services, have begged the King to accept a gun-boat, which they have had built at their own expence. Some ship carpenters at Kiel have offered to get in readiness by the end of March, 12 gun-boats for service. The Asiatic Company have had 4 built at their expence, which they have offered to the King; it has besides, destined 3,000 crowns to be distributed among those of the inhabitants who most suffered from the bombardment. Patriotic gifts flow in from all parts. Among other contributions to the marine, are 2200 crowns by the city of Openrade, for the construction of a gun-boat: 697 crowns from the 1st regiment of Infantry of Jutland, to aid in the construction of a gun-boat; 10,000 crowns by major Schly; another individual has sent the Prince a rich coffee service of plate, &c.
IN SENATE, MARCH 5. The Senate resumed the consideration of the application of Mr. Smith's counsel for further time. Whereupon, on motion of Mr. Adams, the consideration of the Report of the Select Committee in this case was postponed to the 15th inst. and liberty given to Mr. Smith's counsel in the mean time to inspect the papers received by the Senate.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2.
Mr. Randolph, who has been detained from his seat in the House for several weeks, by the effects of an accidental fall, this day took his seat.
On motion of Mr. Chittenden, the House went into committee of the whole on the bill further to amend the judicial system of the U. States. [To alter times of holding certain courts.] The bill being gone through, Mr. Basset reported it to the House, when it was ordered to a third reading.
The House then resolved itself into a committee of the whole—Mr. Perkins in the chair, on the bill concerning public contracts, 51 to 24.
A motion made to strike out of the bill that part which excepts contracts for lands, was negatived 50 to 36.
Mr. Blackledge moved a section to
direct the Secretaries of the Treasury, War and Navy, and the post-master-general to make annual reports of every contract made by them the year preceding, and every particular respecting them.
This amendment was supported by Messrs. Blackledge, Taylor and Stanford, on the ground that this would furnish the House with evidence, without the pain of calling for information from the departments respecting any particular member; that it would besides exhibit particulars which ought to appear; it would be a means of information to the people of the price of contracts, and might produce a reduction in the price of articles purchased for the United States; that many articles which now cost the United States 20 dollars a barrel, may, if it were known to the people, be had for 12 or 15; that this had been evinced by the publication respecting contracts for carrying the mail, by which the service had been done at a much lower rate.
The amendment was opposed by Messrs. Burwell and Holland on the ground that it would be an useless expence to provide for the publication of the annual account of these officers, forming a volume of documents of no importance or interest to the nation; that there would be no difficulty on application in obtaining information in relation to any particular member suspected of being a contractor.
The amendment was adopted, Ayes 55.
The committee then rose and reported the bill, which was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading. Mr. Randolph, from the committee to whom was referred that part of the message from the President of the U. States which relates to enterprizes against the public peace, reported a bill to punish conspiracies to commit treason against the U. States, which was twice read, and, together with a letter from the attorney-general referred to a committee of the whole.
On motion of Mr. Dawson, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Mr. Tread in the chair, on the bill authorizing the sale of certain arms.
The committee having gone through the bill and reported it to the House, Mr. Bacon moved to add a new section to the bill, requiring the purchase money for the arms to be paid into the treasury of the U. States before delivery.—Carried 42 to 35.
Mr. Bibb said as there was a thin House, he hoped gentlemen would not take advantage of the circumstance, and push the bill on to a third reading in its present shape. Had there been a full House, he was convinced the amendment would not have passed. He therefore moved that the bill lie on the table.—Agreed 39 to 35.
There being considerable difficulty in transacting business, and in retaining a quorum within the bar,
On motion of Mr. Stanford the House adjourned at two o'clock, 37 to 32.
THURSDAY, MARCH 3. Mr. Morrow offered the following resolution, which was adopted.
Resolved, That the committee of Commerce and Manufactures be instructed to enquire into the expediency of extending to the revenue districts of Lake Erie and within the state of Ohio, the provisions of an act "extending jurisdiction in certain cases to state courts and state judges," and that they have leave to report by bill or otherwise.
On motion of Mr. Morrow, the bill for continuing in force the bill for extending jurisdiction, &c. referred to above, was recommitted to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures, for the purpose of incorporating the above, if deemed proper.
Mr. Cook from the committee to whom the subject had been referred, reported a bill for establishing trading houses with the Indian tribes. Twice read and referred to a committee of the whole.
The engrossed bill concerning contracts being read for the third time; and after a debate in which Messrs. Holland, Sloan and Cook opposed the bill, it was PASSED by Yeas and Nays, 65 to 44.
Mr. M. Clay called up the report of the committee of the whole on the bill for the classification of the militia; but after some representations of Messrs. Davenport and Southard, that a number of gentlemen known to be opposed to the bill were absent, Mr. M. C. consented to withdraw his motion.
On motion of Mr. Montgomery, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, 50 to 43, Mr. Storer in the Chair, on the bill concerning courts martial and courts of enquiry.
After a debate of upwards of two hours, in which Mr. J. Clay made a motion to strike out the first section, which motion was supported by Messrs. Rowan and Lloyd, and opposed by Messrs. Taylor and Ruea, (T.) the committee rose and obtained leave to sit again. [Debate hereafter.] Adjourned.
The following is from the Kentucky Gazette of Feb. 6.
On Tuesday the 26th inst. Mr. Marshall introduced the following resolutions
(proceeded by the preamble attached) into the house of delegates, which were laid on the table till to-morrow.
On Wednesday they were committed to a committee of the whole house on to-day.
Inasmuch as it has frequently been thought expedient, to express the public opinion on subjects of general concern, as the means of union, and confidence among members of the same community or indications of public will, serving for guides to public servants in their official conduct; and inasmuch as Harry Innes, Esq. (as recently developed) while sole Judge of the Federal Court in this state, has in several instances, and especially in the case of Lachaise, a French emissary, and in the case of the Baron de Carondelet, and in the case of Thomas Power, agents and emissaries of the King of Spain, been privy to or concerned in secret and clandestine negotiations or intrigues carried on by those agents and emissaries with citizens of this state, participating in their views of disturbing the peace, or dismembering the union of the American states, without using any means to prevent or detect the secret machinations of those agents and emissaries; but on the contrary, the said Harry Innes connived at, participated with, or encouraged them, in violation of that faith and allegiance, by which he was bound as a citizen, and more especially as a Judge both by his public duty and his solemn oath, "to support the constitution of the United States," which confides the rights of peace and war to the Congress, and the treaty-making power, with other arrangements of our foreign relations to the President and Senate of the United States. And these circumstances in the conduct of the said Harry Innes, furnishing an occasion of sufficient magnitude to interest the attention of the representatives of the Kentucky people, and to call forth the public expression of their opinion; Therefore
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives, That the conduct of the said Harry Innes, while sole Judge of the United States Court in this state, relative to the said Lachaise, Carondelet and Power, whose objects were to violate the peace or to dismember the union, has been secret, clandestine and illicit, incompatible with his allegiance as a citizen, his fidelity as a Judge, and his oath to support the constitution of the United States—of bad example and of dangerous tendency—calculated to embarrass and impede the rightful operations of the national government—to encourage intrigue and outrage on the part of foreign governments and domestic traitors; and finally, to involve the United States in war or sever the union, by means of bribery, corruption and force. Whereby the said Harry Innes, in rendering himself justly suspected of infidelity to his own government, is unworthy a seat in its Judiciary. And
Resolved, That an enquiry ought to be instituted by the constituted authority, into the conduct of the said Judge Innes, to which he may answer, and on which judgment may be pronounced. And also
Resolved, That the Governor be requested to transmit a copy of the foregoing resolutions to each of the representatives of this state in the Congress of the United States.
The Frankfort Argus of the 4th adds—
This evening after a very lengthy debate on the resolution recommending to the general government, an enquiry into the conduct of the hon. Judge Innes, it was passed by a large majority.
New York, Feb. 26. Flag of truce. —Sailed this morning, wind fair, the ship Osage, flag of truce, with the two couriers despatched by government to France and England. We understand she is first to touch at L'Orient to land one of them, and then proceed immediately for Falmouth, England.
His Britannic Majesty's Packet, Norton, sailed yesterday with dispatches from the British Minister at Washington to his government. It is stated in a morning paper that her letter bags contained upwards of six thousand letters, with nine hundred thousand pound sterling in bills.
Madame Moreau arrived at Bordeaux in the ship Eliza, from New York. She was immediately arrested by the police and confined to her hotel under a guard, without being permitted to write to or speak with any of her friends.
LONDON, JAN. 1. Monthly Agricultural Report. On dry soils, a large breadth of land, has been already ploughed up for barley and pease. The green winter crops of wheat, tares, turnips and ryegrass, from the mildness of the weather, look kind and flourishing. Manuring meadows, hedging and ditching have been also carried on to a great extent.
Many hands are now employed in the barns and in thrashing mills, which last are to be found, on most large farms, and in general give satisfaction, doing their work effectually. The barley crop does not yield equal to expectation, but no deficiency has, as yet, been experienced in the wheat and oat crops already threshed. Wheat averages throughout England and Wales 70s. 3d. 3 3/4 per quarter. Oats 33s. and Barley 38s. 11d.
The straw proving short and small in bulk, and a scarcity of fodder being expected, the prices of lean stock have been considerably reduced. This consideration brought immense droves to the late fairs and markets, where little business was however done, farmers
fearing to make large purchases, and hay being dear. Cows and calves (for the time of the year) have been offered unusually low. In Smithfield market beef fetches from 5s. to 6s. per stone of 8 pound. Mutton from 4s. 4d. to 5s. 4d. Pork from 4s. to 4s. 8d.
Fresh horses and porking pigs obtained good prices, being much wanted.
Boston, February 22. LATEST FROM PORTUGAL.
By the arrival at the Vineyard of the brig Perseverance, capt. Atkins, we have received a file of Lisbon papers to the 19th December. Excepting sundry decrees of Junot, the general in chief of the French army, stationed there, they contain no news of any interest whatever.
Lisbon, December 4. A proclamation was this day made by the French general in chief, in which the object of his visit is promulgated. [Our previous accounts from Paris told us what that was.]
December 8. The use of arms; excepting by the military, is this day prohibited, under severe penalties. It is also decreed this day, that English property, of every kind, shall be confiscated; that all merchants, Portuguese, French, &c. shall within three days make a declaration of such of these articles as they have in their possession, under the penalty of paying ten times the amount that may be found on them; and suffer besides corporal punishment.
December 11. It is this day ordered, that French and Spanish money shall be currently received. It is also decreed, that no advance shall be made in the price of necessary articles of consumption—under very severe fines.
December 12. Tavern-keepers and sellers of wine and spirits, are ordered to close their doors at 7 o'clock upon all Portuguese or French soldiers.
December 15. Notice is this day given, that French officers consider themselves as only in a state of garrison; and that they can require of the inhabitants nothing further than lodgings, fire and light.
December 18. The inhabitants are prohibited from meeting together, under penalty, if found with weapons, of suffering death.
POSTSCRIPT. New-York, Feb. 29.
The British packet, Lord Hobart, which arrived at this port yesterday via Bermuda, left Falmouth on the 15th of January, but brings no London papers later than the 9th, or Lloyd's Lists. The captain is unacquainted with any political event of importance having occurred between that date and the time of his sailing.
The London papers state a report of a proposal by Great Britain acceded to by Bonaparte, to treat for peace.
The British government, in reply to an application from the Merchants, had declared their determination not to relax their late orders.
The papers by the British packet which arrived yesterday, were not delivered, when our paper went to press. Dispatches for Mr. Rose were forwarded this morning.
Oracle.
FOR SALE, To any gentleman from the Southward, Two likely young NEGRO fellows, and a Boy, about twelve years old. Enquire of the Editor of the National Intelligencer. March 4—7t
4000 BUSHELS BEST RICHMOND COAL, NOW landing from on board the sloop Laureh, at Charles King and Co's wharf George Town. Apply to Wm. O'Neale, square 78, city of Washington, or to Josiah Taylor, on board. Those who are indebted to W. O' Neale may be supplied, if they pay of their former accounts, and not otherwise. WM. O'NEALE. March 4—3t
FRESH GARDEN SEEDS, &c. THE Subscriber having recently received a supply of European Garden Seeds, &c. which added to the various sorts saved by him the last summer, makes his assortment extensive and which are for sale at his Nursery Garden, Eastern Branch and at Dr. Ott's Medicine Store, George town. THEO: HOLT Washington city, Jan. 11—law
WAS committed to the jail of Cecil county, on the 2d inst. on suspicion of being a runaway, a Negro Man, who calls himself PHILIP, about 26 years of age, 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, a very dark complexion; he had on when he was committed a woolen hat, linsey-woolsey jacket and trowsers. He says he was sold by John Tyler, near Frederick Town, to Mr. Crown. The owner of said Negro is requested to come forward within 60 days and pay all legal costs and charges, otherwise he will be sold out agreeably to law. JO. BAXTER, Sheriff of Cecil county, Elkton, January 20—w9t

THE Subscriber sets out in the course of seven or eight days for the state of Tennessee, and offers his services to transact business in that country on moderate terms. Any application being left with captain Sewell of Georgetown ferry in the course of the present week will be attended to and the applicant waited upon if in Georgetown, Washington or Alexandria, when the necessary recommendations will be exhibited.—Please enquire of the Printer.
W. BALL.
March 2—3t
A GREEABLY to the provisions of an act of the corporation of this City, entitled, "An act for regulating and licensing Auctions in the city of Washington." The prices of two Auctioneers will be Let to the highest bidders on Monday the 7th inst. at the Council Chamber. The hour of Letting is 6 o'clock, M.
ROBERT BRENT, Mayor of Washington.
March 2—3t
PRIVATE SALE.
THE Subscriber offers at private sale, a valuable LOT in Georgetown, adjoining High Street, (No. 1,) joining the Old Town. There are on the lot, a good Frame House well calculated for a store, or any public business; also, two Warehouses back of the store, both of which are frame and weather-boarded, and in good repair. The one part is now occupied by Mr. Casper Jackson, as a store, and the other part by Mr. John Lutz, as a saddler's shop. A further description is deemed unnecessary, as any person inclining to purchase, will first view the lot and buildings. Terms will be made known on application to Mr. Seth Clarke, Fredericktown, Mr. John Lutz, on the premises, or to the subscribers,
ADAM LIAK, GEORGE LINK, Shepherd's Town, Virginia.
N. B. If the above property is not sold before the 15th of March next, it will on that day be exposed to public sale on the premises.
March 2—
Treasury Department, Registers' Office, June 5th, 1807.
Notice is hereby given,
THAT, in conformity with the provision of the act supplementary to the act, entitled "An act making provision for the redemption of the whole of the public debt of the United States," books will be opened at the Treasury on the first day of July next, to continue open until the seventeenth day of March, 1808, inclusively, the fourteen last days of each quarter excepted, for the purpose of receiving subscriptions for such parts of the old six per cent. deferred six per cent. and three per cent. stocks, as may, on the day of subscription land on the books of the treasury.
Those proprietors of the old six per cent. and deferred stocks, who may subscribe, will receive in lieu thereof a new six per cent. stock, equal to the unclaimed amount of the stock surrendered, redeemable at the pleasure of the United States, under a proviso however, that no reimbursement shall be made except for the whole amount of any such new certificate of stock, nor till after six months previous notice; and the proprietors of the three per cent. stock who may subscribe, will receive in lieu thereof, a six per cent. stock, equal to fifty-five per cent. of the amount of three per cent. surrendered, redeemable in the same manner as the new six per cent. above mentioned, but not reimbursable however, without the assent of the holders, until after the whole of the new six per cent. (given in exchange for old six or deferred as above mentioned,) as well as the whole of the eight per cent. stock of the United States, shall have been reimbursed. It is also provided that in every reimbursement which may take place, a preference will be given to those creditors who may notify their wish to be reimbursed; and that if the applications to that effect shall at any time either exceed or fall short of the sum then applicable to that purpose, the priority of payment shall, so far as may be necessary, be determined by lot.
The present stockholders who reside in any part of Europe and may affect to that modification, may, at their option, receive the interest accruing on the new stock, either in the United States as heretofore, or in London, or Amsterdam, at par: in which last case, the interest will be paid there by the bankers of the United States, six months subsequent to the day on which the same would be payable in the United States and subject to no variation; nor to any other deduction than a commission to the bankers, of one half per cent. on the interest thus paid.
JOSEPH NOURSE, Reg. of the Treasury NOTE—Proprietors of 1000 dollars nominal six per cent. stock, subscribed before the 1st October, 1807, will be entitled to receive, 649 62 of new six
  It subscribed between the 1st Oct. and 31st Dec 1807, 64 37 —   Between the 1st Jan. and 1st March 1808 619 03 —   Proprietors of 1000 dollars nominal deferred, subscribed before the 1st Oct 1807, will be entitled to receive, 855 78 —   It subscribed between the 1st Oct and 31st Dec. 1807, 853 62 —   Between the 1st Jan. and 17th March 1808, 831 42 —   Being the unclaimed amount of the old stock on the 1st July, and October 1807, and 1st January 1808, respectively: 
Proprietors of 1000 dollars three per cent. stock, will be entitled to receive 650 dollars of new six.
June 8—wpm.
COAL.
2,200 bushels just received Per Schooner Saucy Will, capt. Lewis, which will be sold low if taken from on board immediately. ANTHONY REINTZEL, Georgetown, March 2—3t
THE COMMISSIONERS
APPOINTED under the act of the Congress of the United States, "Authorising the erection of a BRIDGE over the RIVER POTOMAC, within the District of Columbia" to receive Subscriptions for erecting the same, hereby give notice that the Books of Subscription, will be opened at Stelle's Hotel in the city of Washington, on the 1st Monday in April next, between the hours of 12 at noon, and 3 P. M.
ROBERT BRENT, DANIEL CARROLL, of Duddington, THOMAS MUNROE, JAMES D. BARRY, FREDERICK MAY, SAMUEL H. SMITH, JONAH THOMPSON, JONATHAN SWIFT, THOMAS VOWELL, CUTHBERT POWELL, ELISHA JANNEY, CHARLES ALEXANDER.
THE act of Congress authorises the Subscription of Two Thousand Shares, and requires the payment of Ten dollars on each share at the time of subscription. The residue to be paid in Instalments of Ten dollars at such times as the company shall fix. Form of Power required from those who make use of an agent.
I empower _____ to subscribe for me, in my name, for _____ shares of Potomac Bridge stock, under the "Act authorising the erection of a bridge over the river Potomac, within the district of Columbia."
February 19—
UNION MANUFACTURING COMPANY OF MARYLAND.
THE Books for receiving Subscriptions to the Union Manufacturing Company of Maryland, will be opened on Monday the 7th March next, and will remain open for that purpose for two days, in different parts of that state as designated by the articles of association of the company—the capital stock of the company, is to consist of one million of dollars, in twenty thousand shares of Fifty Dollars each; two dollars and fifty cents thereof, to be paid at the time of subscribing.
The Commissioners appointed for the town of Baltimore, have lodged a Subscription Paper, at the Bank of Columbia, and another at the Office of Discount and Deposit, in the city of Washington, which will be opened on the days above mentioned, between the hours of Ten and Three to receive any subscription which may offer not exceeding Five Hundred shares at each place. A pamphlet containing the Report of the Committee, and the Articles of Association may in the mean time be seen at either Bank.
February 26—1Mh
PUBLIC SALE.
By Virtue of a decree of the honorable the High Court of Chancery of Maryland, the subscriber as trustee for the sale of the real estate of Gustavus Scott, deceased, will sell at public sale at Van Wyck and Dorsey's Auction Rooms, in the city of Baltimore on Friday the 19th day of March next, at 12 o'clock, the following Tracts of unimproved LAND, lying in Allegany county to wit:
  Governor's Neglect, containing 1031 acres 421   Robey's Delight, 684   Bone's Attention, 461   Chestnut Grove, 600   Now or Never, 1554   Hard Struggle, 50   Lot No. 2487, 15484   W. seven Connection, 
The lands above-mentioned are well watered and timbered, the soil good, and well calculated for grazing and will be divided so as to suit those who wish to purchase. A further description of the property will be given to any person wishing to purchase on application to the subscriber. The terms of sale are, that the purchaser or purchasers of the whole or any part of the above lands shall give bond with security to be approved of by the trustee for paying the purchase money within 12 months from the day of sale.
ROGER PERRY.
The creditors of Gustavus Scott, deceased, who have not yet exhibited their claims, are hereby notified to bring the same into the Chancery Court with the vouchers thereof within six months from the day of sale aforesaid.
R. PERRY.
Cumberland, February 26—3w
THIS is to give Notice, that the Subscriber hath obtained from the Orphans' Court of Prince George's county, in the state of Maryland, letters of administration on the estate of Charles Hodges, late of said county, deceased. All those having claims against the said estate are hereby warned to exhibit them on or before 14th August next, with the vouchers thereof, to the subscriber, in Upper Marlborough, otherwise they may by law be excluded from all benefit of said estate. All those who are indebted to the said estate are hereby notified that suits will be instituted without respect to persons, if immediate payments are not made.
ALEXANDER H. BOTETER, Admr. February 22—w6t
BANK OF COLUMBIA,
25th February, 1808. In conformity to the charter of this institution an Election will be held at Semmes' Tavern, in George-Town, on Monday 21st March next, for twelve Directors, to serve for one year from that day. By order of the President & Directors.
WM. WHANN, Cash'r. ept 21st Mar.
LINDSAY'S HOTEL.
THE Subscriber has taken that well calculated house on the Capitol Hill, late occupied by Mr. Frost formerly by Mr. Stelle—Where he intends to open a Tavern on the 24th October. Those gentlemen who may favor him with their Custom may rely on every attention in the Power of the Public's devoted Servant.
GEO. W. LINDSAY.
N. B.—EIGHT or TEN BOARDERS may be conveniently accommodated. October 19—tf.
A GREAT BARGAIN.
JOSEPH WHEATON Broker and Commission Merchant, has put into his hands for sale, at his office in F street near the Bank, a valuable property in the city of Washington, consisting of 646,453 square feet of city LOTS advantageously situated on the most prominent and valuable streets, and near the Navy Yard and Bridge, and to be had on the most reasonable terms of payment. This great bargain is recommended to gentlemen desirous of securing an early fortune, in this truly growing and flourishing city; the permanent residence and seat of the government of the United States. Other city property to be had—Houses and Lots—Enquire as above.
All kinds of Stocks bought and sold. Wanted to Purchase a few MILITARY LAND WARRANTS. Washington city, Dec. 11—tf
PUBLIC NOTICE
Is hereby given to all persons who have any demands against Peter Foors, an insolvent debtor, that the subscriber, assignee of the said Peter, will attend at the House of John Baird, inn-keeper, in the town of Hackensack, on Monday the 1st day of August next, at 10 o'clock in the forenoon, for the purpose of examining and ascertaining the debts due from the said Peter to such of his creditors as shall then and there attend and exhibit their demands. The subscriber will also attend at the place aforesaid on Thursday the 1st day of September next at 10 o'clock in the forenoon, for the purpose of making a division agreeably to law, of all such moneys as shall then have come to his hands, of the estate of the said Peter, of which those concerned will please to take notice.
WILLIAM A. DE PEYSTER. Hackensack N. J. Feb. 10th, 1808.
By virtue of a power of attorney to me given by George N. Thomas, I will offer for sale, on Tuesday 8th day of March next, if fair, and if not, the first fair day thereafter, at the Bridge across the Eastern Branch, and on the south side of the Bridge, three NEGRO MEN, for cash. These Negroes are young and healthy, and one of them is an excellent carpenter.
RICHARD G. GARDINER. February 22—18Mh
A BRICK HOUSE AND LOT FOR SALE.
ON Monday the 8th day of February next, if fair, if not the next fair day, will be exposed to public sale on the premises at 4 o'clock in the evening, part of Lot No. 6, in square No. 141. in this city, fronting 16 feet 9 inches on North G street, and running back 133 feet, with the improvements thereon, consisting of a convenient two story Brick House and enclosure. The Lot was leased to the former tenant for a term of 99 years at the rent of 35 dollars per annum, and the benefit of a covenant to purchase the fee simple thereof.
On default of payment of three years rent, the subscriber has been put in possession of the premises, according to the law in such cases provided; for which, and accruing expenses, it will be sold, subject to the conditions of the former case, and a new lease executed to the purchaser on complying with the terms of sale. Being in the vicinity of the public offices, and in a thick settled genteel neighborhood, it would be an eligible situation for a gentleman doing business in either of the departments. The premises may be viewed and the papers seen by applying to Thomas Herty, prior to the day of sale.
JOSIPH NOURSE.
Terms of sale, a negotiable note with an approved endorser, payable 60 days after date.
The Sale of the above Property is postponed until Monday the 14th day of March next, when it will be offered for sale at the hour and place above-mentioned.
February 17—tdos
LOST out of the CONGRESS LIBRARY the First Part of the First Volume of the CYCLOPEDIA, Philadelphia Edition. It belonged to the late Abraham Baldwin, Senator. It can be of little use but to the owner of the set. Whoever will leave it at the Office of the National Intelligencer shall be liberally rewarded.
February 24—4t
By order of the Orphan's Court, will be offered for public SALE on Tuesday the 24th of March next on a credit of nine months, the purchaser giving note with approved security, with interest from date, all the personal ESTATE of Margetet Roberts late of Montgomery county, deceased, consisting of a number of Negroes, two Leases of Land, a Crop of Corn, Corn Fodder, Hay, Horses, Cattle and Hogs, and other articles too tedious to enumerate. The sale to commence at 10 o'clock on said day and to continue from day to day till all is sold.
HENRY ROBERTS, and JOSEPH ROBERTS, Admrs. of Margetet Roberts. February 26—tdos.
TUNIS CRAVEN
HAS removed his entire stock of DRY GOODS from Alexandria to Washington, and is now opening, at his new Store, between the Marine Garrison and Navy Yard Gate, an assortment equal to any in the District;—among which are,
 Wood's best London cloths,  Do. double milled & plain cassimeres,  Bennett's cords and velvets,  Constitution Gerrow, hunting, Trafalgar, and silver cords,  Velvets,  Imperial, Brunswick waistcoating,  Silk moleskins do.  Toiliness, swansdown do.  Plain and figured Marseilles do.  Beaver skin coatings,  Plains, kerseys, halfticks,  Rose and duffil blankets, flannels,  Superfine green cloth table covers,  Calicoes, colored cambrics,  Ginghams, silk and cotton chambrays,  Furniture Chintz,  Cambric and jaconet muslins,  India and British book do.  India mullmull figured and plain,  Plain and figured lenoes,  Laced cambrics,  Elegant tambooured gulls,  Grecian robes and Pelisse dresses,  8-4 damask and raw silk shawls,  Damask scarfs,  Camel's hair and swansdown do.  Down scarfs,  Long and short lace sleeves, spider & nett sleeves,  Extra long and habit kid gloves,  Do. do. silk do.  Do. do. raw silk do.  Cross-barred and plain Mantuas and lute strings,  Persians and Medes,  Thread and cotton laces,  Lace caps and handkerchiefs,  Book muslin and leno cap patterns,  4-4-7-8 Irish linens,  Long lawns, linen cambrics,  Irish diapers, table-cloths, napkias,  Cotton counterpanes,  Cambric Dimities,  Common do.  Furniture do.  Ladies' and gentlemen's silk, thread, cotton, worsted, lamb's wool & Angola hose,  Gentlemen's pantaloons do.  Silk cords and buttons,  Ribbons, floss threads,  Scarlet and other colored bombazets,  Hearth rugs, Russia sheeting, ticklingburg,  Osnaburgs, baftas, gurrahs, &c. &c. 
ALSO,
Imperial and young hyson tea of a superior quality in small boxes, to suit families, or by the pound—Also genuine Havana segars.
T. C. is determined to sell on the lowest terms. February 3—tf
ROSS AND GETTY,
HAVE for sale at their store George Town, the following articles just received from Philadelphia, by the schooner Carolina, capt. HAND, jun. viz.
 30 kegs butter,  20 barrels, New Town, Pippin Apples,  10 do. buck wheat flour,  10 do. Cranberries, and  10 do shell bark hickory nuts. 
Also a small assignment of very elegant Looking Glasses, Waiters, Trays, polished steel Shovel and Tongs, with cut and brass heads, &c. &c. January 9—tf
BURNS AND BEALL.
WOOLLEN drapers, men's mercers, and tailors, New Jersey Avenue, opposite the Secretary of the Navy's, respectfully inform the public that they have commenced business in the above line, where they will endeavor to give satisfaction—they have on hand a fresh supply of the most fashionable goods, suitable for the approaching season, all fresh and of the very best quality.
N. B. Regimentals and naval uniforms made in the most elegant and fashionable stile with neatness and dispatch. October 23—tf.
TWO ELEGANT FORTEPIANO NOTES.
THE subscriber has just received two instruments made by Broadwood, of the first quality, and probably superior to any in this place. He has also all kinds of DRY & WET GOODS, among the latter peach brandy 6 years old, fourth proof, and best kind of HAMS—also, he offers a pair of PISTOLS, in mahogany case, said to shoot between two and three hundred yards, with a musket handle, original cost 100 dollars.
F. A. WAGLER,
At his New Store, near the Centre Market.
N. B. Instruments tuned on the shortest notice. December 25—tf.
CHARLES H. VARDEN, MERCHANT TAYLOR,
RESPECTFULLY informs the gentlemen of the district of Columbia and public in general, that he has just received by a late arrival from Philadelphia,
A CHOICE ASSORTMENT
Of superfine Cloths, Cassimeres, single and double milled, superfine Coatings, black silk Florentines. Likewise an elegant assortment of Spangle and rich silk Moleskins for waistcoats with a variety of other articles suitable for the season.
Regimentals and Navy Uniforms made in the most elegant and uniform stile of fashion.
Richard Horwell's celebrated patent parallel SUSPENDERS far superior to any hitherto in use can be had on the same terms, retail, as at his manufactory. November 27—tf
PUBLIC SALE.
By virtue of a decree of the honorable the circuit court of the district of Columbia, sitting as a court of chancery for the county of Washington, in the suit of
John Roberts and Samuel G. Griffith complainants.
Against Benjamin Bryan Defendant.
WILL be sold at public auction to the highest bidder, on Tuesday the 29th day of March next, at Stelle's Hotel, in the city of Washington, at the hour of 12 o'clock, M. a lot of ground in said city, in that square designated on the plan of said city by square north of square numbered seven hundred and forty-three, the said lot being bounded as follows to wit: Beginning at a point in the line of the west side of New Jersey Avenue, at the distance of one hundred and fifty one feet ten inches from the stone planted at the north east corner of said square, and running thence with the line of the said Avenue twenty-five feet, thence leaving the said Avenue, and with a line at right angles with the line thereof running one hundred feet, then turning in a direction parallel to the line of the said Avenue, and running thence twenty five feet, thence an hundred feet to the point of beginning, containing about two thousand five hundred square feet of ground, together with the improvements thereon erected, and all the advantages thereunto belonging or appertaining.
This property is eligibly situated between the Capital Hill and sugar house, and may be inspected at any time prior to the day of sale.
The terms of sale are cash or money to be paid immediately on the ratification thereof by the court.
JOHN G. McDONALD, Trustee. 26th February, 1808—p4w
By the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
WHEREAS by the first article of the terms and conditions declared by the President of the United States on the 17th day of October 1791 for regulating the materials and manner of buildings and improvements on the lots in the city of Washington, it is provided, "that the outer and party walls of all houses in the said city shall be built of brick or stone," and by the third article of the same terms and conditions, it is declared, "that the wall of no house shall be higher than forty feet to the roof in any part of the city, nor shall any be lower than thirty-five feet on any of the avenues," and whereas the above recited articles were found to impede the settlement in the city, of mechanics and others whose circumstance did not admit of erecting houses authorised by the said regulations, for which cause the operation of the said articles has been suspended by several acts of the President of the United States, from the fifth day of June 1796 to this day, and beneficial effects arising from such suspensions having been experienced, it is deemed proper to revive and continue the same, with the exceptions hereafter mentioned:
Wherefore, I Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States, do declare, That the first and third articles above recited shall be, and the same hereby are suspended until the 1st day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and nine, and that all houses which shall be erected in the city of Washington previous to the said first day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and nine, conformable in other respects to the regulations aforesaid shall be considered as lawfully erected, except that no wooden house, covering more than three hundred and twenty square feet, or higher than twelve feet from the sill to the eves shall be erected, nor shall any such house be placed within twenty-four feet of a brick or stone house.
Given under my hand, the first day of January in the year one thousand eight hundred and eight.
TH: JEFFERSON.
Jan. 11—w6t
By the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
WHEREAS by the act, entitled, "An act making provision for the disposal of the Public Lands, situated between the United States Military Tract, and the Connecticut reserve, and for other purposes," it was enacted that for the disposal of the Lands of the United States, situated between the United States Military Tract, and the Connecticut Reserve, a Land Office should be established at such place, as the President of the United States might direct; And it was further enacted, that the lands aforesaid with the exception of certain tracts therein excepted, be offered for sale to the highest bidder at the place aforesaid, on such day or days, as shall be by a public proclamation of the President of the United States be designated for that purpose, in tracts of the same size, and on the same terms and conditions as are provided for the lands North of the river Ohio, and above the mouth of Kentucky river.
Wherefore, I, Thomas Jefferson, President of the United States, in conformity with the provisions of the act before recited, Do hereby declare and make known, that sales shall be held at Canton in the state of Ohio, for the disposal of the above mentioned lands, to commence on the second Monday of May, one thousand eight hundred and eight, and continue for and during the six following weeks.
Given under my hand the nineteenth day of November, one thousand eight hundred and seven.
(Signed) TH: JEFFERSON. December 25—w6t