The gazette (Portland, Me.), 1799-01-21 00:00:00

The Gazette.
[NUMBER 39.]
By ELEZER ALLEY JENKS, Portland, Maine.
[VOLUME 1.]
Portland.
MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 1799.
Communication.
By the federal vigilance and patriotic industry of Mr. Russell, editor of the Commercial Gazette in Boston, who very politely complied with my request in a late postscript, I am enabled to lay before the District of Maine the letter of Thomas Jefferson, vice president of the United States, to a Strolling Italian by the name of Mazzei, one of the idle, speculative, and truly aristocratical philosophers of the present day, who would like to be so very obliging as to take the trouble of ruling mankind in the stead of governments, constitutions, religion, principles, and such like prejudices, follies, and delusions. That no jacobin who soever, let his Frenchified soul be ever so callous to truth, or bent upon deception, may have a hair-breadth of room to insinuate to a by-lander that it is a forgery of the federalists, be it known that I have requested a member of Congress to ask Mr. Jefferson if he wrote it, which question was put to Mr. Jefferson, whose answer was, with a shew of indifference, that he could not say exactly, as he had not compared it with the original. Here follows what Mr. Russell justly styles the "unworthy letter"—to which I have caused to be added the observations annexed to it in Paris when it was first published there. My countrymen, make your own remarks.
From the Paris Monitor, of Jan 25, 1797.
FLORENCE, (Italy) JAN. 1.
LETTER from Mr. Jefferson, late Minister of the United States in France, and Secretary to the Department of Foreign Affairs, to a citizen of Virginia.
[This letter, literally translated, is addressed to M. Mazzei, author of researches, historical and political, upon the United States of America, now resident in Tuscany.]
"OUR political situation is prodigiously changed since you left us. Instead of that noble love of liberty, and that republican government, which carried us through the dangers of the war, an Anglo-Monarchical-Aristocratic party has arisen. Their avowed object is to impose on us the substance, as they have already given us the form of the British government. Nevertheless, the principal body of our citizens remain faithful to republican principles. All our proprietors of lands are friendly to those principles, as also the men of talents. We have against us (republicans) the Executive power, the Judiciary power, (two of the three branches of our government) all the officers of government, all who are seeking office, all timid men who prefer the calm of despotism to the tempestuous sea of liberty, the British merchants and the Americans who trade on British capitals, the speculators, persons interested in the banks and public funds. [Establishments invented with views of corruption, and to assimilate us to the British model in its corrupt part.]
"I should give you a fever, if I should name the apostates who have embraced these heresies; men who were Solomons in council, and Samsons in combat, but whose hair has been cut off by the whore England. [In the original, par la catin Angleterre , probably alluding to the woman's cutting off the hair of Samson, and his loss of strength thereby.]
"They would wrest from us that liberty which we have obtained by so much labor and peril; but we shall preserve it. Our mass of weight and riches are so powerful, that we have nothing to fear from any attempt against us by force. It is sufficient that we guard ourselves, and that we break the lilliputian ties by which they have bound us, in the first slumbers which succeeded our labors. It suffices that we arrest the progress of that system of ingratitude and injustice towards France, from which they would enslave us, to bring us under British influence, &c."
Thus far the letter; to which are subjoined, in the French paper, the following remarks:
"This interesting letter, from one of the most virtuous and enlightened citizens of the United States, explains the conduct of Americans in regard to France. It is certain that of all the neutral and friendly powers, there is none from which France had a right to expect more interest and favours than from the United States. She is their true mother country, since she has assured to them, their liberty and independence. Ungrateful children, instead of abandoning her, they ought to have armed in her defence. But it impious circumstances had prevented them from openly declaring for the Republic of France, they ought at least to have made dem-stra-
tions, and excited apprehensions in England, that at some moment or other, they should declare themselves. This fear alone would have been sufficient to force the cabinet of London to make peace. It is clear that a war with the United States would strike a terrible blow at the commerce of the English; would give them uneasiness for the preservation of their possessions on the American continent, and deprive them of the means of conquering the French and Dutch colonies.
"Equally ungrateful and impolitic, the Congress hastens to encourage the English, that they might pursue in tranquility their war of extermination against France, and to invade the colonies and commerce of England." They sent to London a Minister, Mr. Jay, known by his attachment to England, and his personal relations to Lord Grenville, and he suddenly concluded a treaty of commerce, which united them with Great Britain, more than a treaty of alliance.
"Such a treaty, under all the peculiar circumstances, and by the consequences which it must produce, is an act of hostility against France. The French government in short, has testified the resentment of the French nation, by breaking off communication with an ungrateful and faithless ally, until the shall return to a more just and benevolent conduct. Justice and sound policy equally approve this measure of the French government. There is no doubt it will give rise in the United States, to discussions, which may afford a triumph to the party of good republicans, the friends of France."
"Some writers, in disapprobation of this wise and necessary measure of the Directory, maintain, that in America, the French have partizans only certain demagogues who aim to overthrow the existing government. But their imprudent falsehoods convince no one, and prove only what is too evident, that they use the liberty of the press, to serve the enemies of France."
There seems to be a mistake in the original in this passage, or we mistake the construction. Translator.
At present I shall add nothing to this communication but the following question—Was ever a flimsier and more paltry and contemptible thing produced even by the American Antichrist and prince of Philosophers!—I hope to have time to treat it as I did the speech of M. Barras, to another Virginian philosopher, and disciple of Jefferson, Monroe.
Articles of Foreign News.
BOSTON, JANUARY, 14. Yesterday arrived here, the ship MINERVA, Stephen Turner, commander, in 54 days from London. Capt. Turner sailed from Spithhead on the 20th Nov. in company with 350 sail of vessels bound for the United States, Lisbon and the West Indies, under convoy. On Saturday night off Cape Pophat, Capt. Turner spoke a fishing boat belonging to Kennebec, which he employed to take on board his Letter Bag, the vessel being then unsafe and a storm appearing to be gathering. We expect to receive our regular files this day. The last paper we have yet received is dated
LONDON, Nov. 16. The American Agents are at this time very busy in buying up ships to be converted into ships of force; several of the French, Dutch, and Spanish prizes lately taken, have been purchased by them, and are with permission of Government, gone in to private docks to be repaired, and fitted out with all possible dispatch.
Mr. Dunbridge, late Secretary to the American Embassy at the Hague, is arrived in England, being appointed Secretary to Rufus King, Esq.
The remittances to this country from the Continent have of late been so great, that there is at this moment more cash in the Bank, than there has been at any period since the commencement of the war.
Yesterday arrived in town several of the Officers who came over in the late cartel ships from France. They report that the French government are in a state of the utmost alarm, in consequence of the tumults which have broken out in the Netherlands, and that troops are pouring towards the Flemish frontier from every quarter.
They also report, that on passing from Lisle to Gravelines, on the 6th instant, a very heavy cannonade was heard in the Direction of Courtray, in the neighbourhood of which town, it is supposed an action had taken place between the military and the people.
Lady Nelson has taken a house at Bath, for the reception of her gallant Lord, who is shortly expected to arrive in England.
Letters from Hamburg say, that Dumourier with several Officers who have served under him have been induced, by advantageous offers, to enter into the service of the Ottoman Porte. It is added, that Dumourier and suite are upon the eve of taking their departure for Constantinople.
Legislature of Massachusetts.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 11, 1799.
AGREEABLE to previous assignment, the two branches assembled in the Representatives Hall, to receive the communications of His Excellency the Governor; who, precisely at 12 o'clock, came in and delivered the following
SPEECH.
Gentlemen of the Senate, and
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.
SINCE I had last the pleasure of addressing you, the internal state of the Commonwealth has been in general tranquil and prosperous, resulting undoubtedly, from a strong attachment of the people to the Government, and from a faithful and impartial execution of the laws; nor can we doubt of the continuance of this state of things, while our citizens feel the importance of Social Order, Virtue and Industry, and at the same time, duly appreciate the blessings of a Free Government, established by their wisdom, supported by their energy, & administered by officers of their choice.
Happy indeed would be our situation, as a Government, if our internal regulations could exempt us from foreign usurpations, as well as protect us from domestic violence; but the least observation will convince us, that the best intentions and purest motives frequently fail of insuring the friendship and amity of foreign nations. Hence arises the necessity of standing prepared to repel foreign aggressions, when differences cannot be adjusted by the amicable mode of negotiation. The best internal arrangements of Government avail but little while the nation itself remains exposed to the depredations and insults of every bold invader.
If we trace the history of our country from its first settlement, we shall find, perhaps no period more critical, or interesting than the present. The principles lately disseminated, have roused a spirit of inquiry, and excited a solicitude before unknown.
Having established the Independence of the American Government on the principles of justice, and basis of equal rights, we cherished the hope, that by industriously cultivating our soil, promoting manufactures, and extending commerce, we might attain the object of our pursuit and long enjoy peace, liberty and safety: But uninterrupted prosperity seems to be rather a picture of the imagination than a reality, which man is allowed to enjoy. In every age arises a series of duties and trials peculiar to itself. Scarce had we begun to feel the happy effects of the mildness, and, I believe, the wisest government the world had ever known, ere the convulsions of European nations threatened to involve that of the American: But thanks to our political pilots, whose penetration discovered our danger, and whose wisdom and patriotism directed them to a system of impartial neutrality as the best means of avoiding impending evil. This just and wise policy, equally calculated to preserve peace with foreign nations, and to secure domestic tranquility, at length gave umbrage to the Government of France, and various methods were pursued to engage the United States as a party in the contest. The ministers and agents of France early commenced their political career in this country, and disseminated principles and sentiments totally subversive of our Government & Independence, by endeavouring to persuade the People that their interest dictated a violation of the system our Executive had adopted;—to create dissensions and separate the people from the Government of their choice. Thank Heaven, the scheme proved ineffectual, and the citizens of the United States are yet free, happy & independent.
It must be unnecessary, as well as painful, to recite the reasons of the failure of the overtures for peace and accommodation—they are universally known, and I believe, perfectly understood. The world will do us the justice to believe, that no effort has been omitted on the part of the United States to adjust differences and preserve peace with the Republic of France—an object most sincerely & uniformly sought, but unhappily not yet within the power of the United States to obtain: To accomplish this, is alike our interest and our wish; and we are happy to hear, the Chief Magistrate of the Union publicly declare—"it is peace we have uniformly and perseveringly cultivated, and harmony between us and France may be restored at her option." We cannot yet believe that France will drive us to the last resort, which in the end would prove as injuries to her interests, as to our own. From present appearances, however, we can discern no reason for relaxing our preparations for defence. Should we not violate the first law of nature, the great principle of self-preservation, if the means for this purpose which the Almighty has placed within our power, were neglected? Let then the remains of political dissension cease, and all orders of men unite in displaying those virtues, and that manly patriotic spirit, which the exigency of the times demands:—And should the United States, be invaded, let us stand prepared at our
country's call, to rally round the American Standard, wisely committed to the charge of our beloved Washington, who will be faithful to the trust, and not surrender the sacred deposit to an invading foe, while he has an American by his side.—Under such a leader, and in their country's defence, America's hardy sons cannot fail of displaying that native enterprise and valor, for which they have heretofore been distinguished.
Let no one imagine, that by these remarks, I am for precipitating the United States into a war; nothing is further from my heart, for I am fully sensible, no calamity is more to be dreaded, except the loss of our Liberties and Independence: But they are made because my own observation, confirmed by the experience of ages, demonstrate, that the best security of Peace, is preparation for War. Do not the existing circumstances of our country, demand of me evidence of that firmness, union and decision, which, in the present crisis, are so essential to its prosperity? As a member of the Union, is it not incumbent to afford a prompt and zealous support to the measures of the National Government, without which we cannot long expect to enjoy Peace, Independence, or Safety? The numerous patriotic addresses to THE PRESIDENT, from all parts of the United States, exhibit a strong proof of enlightened understanding, inviolable attachment to the Government, and unshaken confidence in its administration; and must convince France and the world, that the citizens of America, like a band of brothers, united by the ties of interest and affection, are determined to stand or fall together.
In pursuance of your resolution of the 24th of June last, I gave the necessary orders for having such parts of the Commonwealth as were most exposed to assaults and depredations from armed vessels, fortified. The cannon have been mounted, in some instances; in others, are in such a state of preparation, that they may be delivered in a short time. The fort, which has been erected on Nantasket, for the protection of Boston harbour, will require the attention of the Legislature, in relation to the number of men, which shall be considered necessary for its defence.
From the returns of the Adjutant General, which I shall direct the Secretary to lay before you, may be seen the state of the sea coast defence, the condition and arrangements of the militia, and by which will also appear, that all the companies of Artillery within this Commonwealth, in number forty four, except in a few instances, are completely equipped with light brass pieces, & that the whole body of our militia, in general, is well organized, and that the several divisions have exhibited pleasing proofs of order and discipline.
By the accurate statements of the Quarter-Master General, in consequence of my orders to him, you will readily perceive the amount and condition of all the Ordnance and Military Stores belonging to the Commonwealth; and also the manner in which the sum granted the last session for the sea coast defence, has been applied, and I flatter myself, you will be satisfied that proper economy has been practised in the expenditure.
The Act for ceding Castle-Island, to the Government of the United States, has been presented and accepted, on the terms therein specified, and the troops of the United States have received possession and now occupy that fortress; In consequence of which I ordered Major Perkins's company of the artillery, heretofore doing duty at that place, to be dismissed, according to your directions.
In the acceptance of the cession of Castle-Island, a condition was made, "that the convicts confined thereon, be previously removed," which was accordingly done, and they are now confined in different goals in this vicinity, where they await the further order of the Legislature. The laws relative to Convicts will need revision, as there now remains no place, established by law, for their confinement to hard labor. And here permit me to ask, whether any punishment hitherto devised, for offences not capital, has been found more effectual for reclaiming offenders, by its tendency to establish habits of industry, affording time for reflection, and the apparent dread which that mode of punishment excites in the minds of the more dissolute parts of the community? I believe it will not be doubted, that the Commonwealth, since the institution of that mode of punishment, has been abundantly more free from high-handed offences, than at any former period.
In all Legislative Acts which shall be promotive of justice, and of the general welfare of the Community, you may rest assured, Gentlemen, of my most hearty concurrence.
INCREASE SUMNER.
Council Chamber, Jan. 11, 1799.
Jan. 11. In the House, the Speech was committed to Messrs. Sprague, Paine, Lowell, Pickman and Welles.
Jan. 11. In Senate, the Speech was committed to the Hon. Messrs. Dune, Jones, and Davis (of Cumberland.)

Legislature of the Union.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 2.
Mr. Otis's resolution, relative to the impressment, of American seamen by the British, was taken up.
Mr. Gordon wished the matter might rest with the executive, as he was satisfied every necessary step would be taken, without the interference of the House.
Col. Josiah Parker moved an amendment, & expatiating on the outrage in question, stated the following particulars of it from an authentic source.—He had no doubt that the President of the United States would feel this indignity as severely as any one; but he nevertheless thought it proper to pass this resolution. The Baltimore, he understood, was conveying a number of our vessels to the Havannah, when three of the squadron were cut off by the British force. Captain Phillips, the commander of the Baltimore, enquired the reason for this? Capt. Loring, the British commander, sent an officer on board our ship, who said, "that Capt. L. would take out every man from his ship, who was a British subject, & could not produce his protection;" Capt. P. very properly answered, "that the American flag was a sufficient protection." This, however, was not deemed sufficient, and this officer took fifty five men from the Baltimore, & detained them on board the British ship some time. Supposing, however (it is presumed) that he had done wrong. Capt. Loring informed Capt. Phillips, "that he might come on board his ship, and take back such of his men as were Americans." Capt. P. replied, "the men were in his power, & he might do with them what he pleased." Capt. L. afterwards set two of the vessels at liberty which he had cut off, saying, "I keep the other because the Captain has been injolent," and returned fifty of the men, keeping five. Mr. P. thought Capt. Phillips ought not to have suffered a treatment so flagrant without filing upon the British ship, and nothing, except, perhaps, his inferiority of force, could plead his apology for not having done so. It is useless, said Mr. P. to guard against the injury and insult of one nation, if we are to receive them with impunity from another. He had no doubt, however, that the President would see the necessity of strongly remonstrating with the British government against this conduct, and of demanding reparation for the injury sustained; nor ought, in his opinion, a small reparation to be accepted.
The resolution was put and carried without a division; and Messrs. Otis and Josiah Parker were appointed a Committee to wait on the President thereon.
The bill on this subject was again considered, and amendments proposed and decided. The Committee had leave to sit again.
A report of the Secretary of the Navy, was ordered to be printed.
Several modifications & amendments of this act were debated. The stamp on foreign bills of exchange was lowered to 20 cents. A motion to strike out Bank Checks from the exceptions, was lost 43 to 37. The debate on this subject was lengthy; and in it Mr. Otis took an able and conspicuous part.
THURSDAY, JAN. 3.
Mr. Otis reported a bill to suspend the commercial intercourse with France, and its dependencies. Made the order of the day for Monday.
The House adjourned for an hour, to permit the Managers to attend before the High Court.
[In the High Court of Impeachment (Jan. 3) the Managers presented their replication; which Mr. Ingersol, Counsel for Blount opposed with a demur.]
MONDAY, JANUARY 7.
Mr. Otis reported, that the President would take the subject of the impressment of the Americans by the British into consideration.
A bill for consolidating the several acts respecting duties on domestic distilled spirits, and still was read,
SPURIOUS AGENTS.
A bill was reported, "for the prevention of certain crimes therein specified." Read twice, and committed.
STAMP ACT
This bill underwent a long discussion.
HIGH COURT.
The Senate resumed the trial of William Blount, when Mr. Ingersol, in a neat & eloquent speech of two hours, finished the defence in support of the plea against the jurisdiction of the Court:—After which, Mr. Harper with his usual ability, made a reply of two hours against the plea, and in support of the jurisdiction of the Senate. The Court adjourned to Monday morning, when, it is expected, if judgment should be against the jurisdiction of the Senate, the whole business will, of course, fall to the ground; but if the judgment of the Court be against the plea, and in favor of the jurisdiction, then the trial, it is presumed, will proceed on the articles of impeachment.]
TUESDAY, JAN. 8.
After some preliminary observations, Mr. Gallatin laid on the table a resolution requesting the President to communicate to the House information respecting the course of transactions between the United States and France.
Latest Foreign News.
BY THE MINERVA.
Opposition to French Tyranny.
GERMANY.—VIENNA, OCT. 27.
THE Girondins, tired of French liberty, have solicited General Bellegarde to take possession of the important posts of Coire and Richenau—which he has done.
ENGLAND.—LONDON, NOV. 13.
We last night received by Express, Paris papers to the 3d inst. The master of the packet stated that there had been an embargo on at the French ports.—These Journals confirm the account of a very severe insurrection having taken place in Brabant and Flanders. The following message was sent on the 31st ult. by the French Executive Directory to the Council of Five Hundred, on this important subject:
Citizens Representatives,
The Executive Directory received yesterday your message relative to the Rebellion which has broken out in a part of the Departments incorporated with the Republic by the Law of the 29th Vendemiaire, 4th year.
This Rebellion bore at first a very serious appearance: the military conscription seems to have been but a mere pretext. It is the effect of the suggestions of England, and of Fanaticism. The Authors of the Rebellion, are men formerly attached either to the Government of the ci-devant Belgium, or to the party of the Stadtholder; the Insurgents are Priests, Monks, Vagrants and foreigners. The trees of liberty have been replaced by crosses; one part of the factions wore the Orange cockade, and the standards of another were marked with the Imperial Eagle.
The Executive Directory has adopted the most energetic and most vigorous measures to suppress the revolt, and entertain the most sanguine hopes of their proving successful. It will crush the rebellion, and punish the guilty.
It is not yet able to say, whether it will be necessary to resort to new Legislative measures against refractory priests, requisitionaries, deserters and citizens belonging to the military conscription; it waits for more ample information, to point out the ulterior measures which it may judge necessary to propose.
But the Executive Directory would think itself deficient in the performance of one of its most important duties, did it not inform you that, though it flatters itself to crush the commotions which have broken out, it cannot hope to prevent their renewal, as long as it has not at its disposal a sufficient fund of secret service money, for procuring the means of getting early intelligence of all the manoeuvres of the English, and of other enemies of the Republic. The sum of 1,500,000 livres Turnois is indispensably requisite for this purpose, and the Directory invites you accordingly to take this message into your most speedy and serious consideration.
(Signed) "TREILHARD, President. LAGARDE, Sec. General."
The sum demanded in this message was granted by the Council of Five Hundred in the sitting of the 1st of November.
NOV. 14.
A declaration of war has been made by our Court against the Ligurian and Roman Republics.
The Porte has offered to assist the Raguzan Republic, in repelling the unjust aggressions and demands of the French.
Warlike preparations are making in all the circles of Germany.
Three per cent stocks are at 56, to 57.
LONDON, Nov. 16.
Last night was received, the Paris journals up to the 12th inst. They are still very silent respecting the view in which the Directory considers the emperor's conduct in entering the country of the Girondins. The Redacteur only attempts to wipe away the assertion that the French had first attempted to do the same thing. This circumstance, coupled with measures they are taking in Switzerland, betrays the alarm it has occasioned.
The most curious, and perhaps the most important event announced in these papers is, that at length one member of the council of 500, has been found bold enough to arraign the famous 18th Fructidor; and though not seconded in his attack, yet it was permitted, and he was heard to the end, though not without violent murmur. Our readers will peruse this debate with interest; for those who are acquainted with the cautious and expert intrigue of the French factions will suspect that Rouchon would not have hazarded this philippic without the certainty of support, and that he was put forward to feel the pulse of the Assembly.
Another, singular circumstance in these papers is, that an attempt is made to vindicate the Directory from the madness or the imposture of the enterprise to Egypt, by throwing the blame on Buonaparte. We have extracted that curious article from the Echo of the 9th inst. as from the manner of its insertion it seems to come from authority. It shows that they think it necessary to conciliate public opinion, & proves that, though the press is stifled, the natural organ of a free people, the voice of the nation is loud and vehement in its reprobation of their measures. They cannot conceal this truth from the knowledge of the world; and accordingly we find in the Redacteur of the 14th Brumaire a long and bitter complaint of the indecency
with which the malcontents express their joy on every disaster of the republic.
Grand Scheme of Commercial Finance.
Those who affect to penetrate into the secrets of the Cabinet furnish materials for political speculation, of a weight and substance, which, at the first glance are astonishing!
The character and the extent of the LEAGUE which is forming against France certainly develop themselves more and more. England is known to be the soul of it. We are assured, that the lures which our ministers have thrown out for new commercial treaties are likely to open channels of trade hitherto unattempted even by the enterprize of individual adventurers; and the advantage to be derived from which, it is highly probable we shall obtain at the price of the countenance of war.
A commercial treaty with the Emperor of Russia; a commercial treaty with the Emperor of Germany; a commercial treaty with the King of Prussia; a commercial treaty with the Ottoman Porte; a commercial treaty with the King of Spain! are all at this moment on the anvil; besides several inferior treaties, such as one with the King of Naples, which, we are told, are actually concluded. By these treaties we expect to have the navigation of every sea opened to our trade; and what the French are endeavoring to accomplish by the revolutionary torrent, we are aiming to obtain by compromise.
On Friday last a committee of merchants were consulted on various points in these projected conventions, and it is expected that the wide extended plan will be made known soon after the meeting of Parliament. By the treaty with the Turks, the expectation is formed of securing all the advantages of that short communication with India, which Buonaparte's expedition was intended to open to France by force of arms. The Levant trade will be revived, and by the free navigation of the Danube and the Black Sea we expect to penetrate by the Danube into the heart of Germany.
The treaty with Spain is by no means chimeraical. We have good reasons for believing that the ground is opened. Offers have been made too tempting to be resisted; and the only difficulty is, how to protect Spain from the vengeance of the French on the Pyrenean frontier. It is not impossible but that a Russian army may be destined to this service, while the collected wealth of several years, which has been detained in South America for fear of its falling into the hands of the English on its passage, and of the French on its landing, will be brought home under the convoy of the British Marine.
We forbear to enter further into details. As these prospects, however, give us the certainty of continued war, we are making preparation accordingly. The Navy Board, we are assured, contracted on Monday last for the unprecedented quantity of 130,000 pair of shoes, and immense contracts are to be made for other articles. Why is this? Because the subsidy (the intended price for some of the treaties) is to be paid in British manufactures, not in money.
Capture of two Dutch Frigates.
Sirius, Grimsby Roads, Nov. 1, 1798.
I have the honor to inform your lordship that in pursuance of orders I received from Vice Admiral Sir Richard Onslow, Bart. I parted company with the fleet on the evening of the 23d inst. to reconnoitre the force of the enemy in the Texel. At eight A. M. on the following morning, the Texel bearing S by E. ten leagues, I fell in with the two Dutch frigates named in the margin* at that time about two miles distance of each other.
Passing within gun shot of the leeward most of them, I stood on until I could (upon tacking) nearly fetch the weathermost (the Waakzaamheid) my object being to prevent their junction; and by the means, that being accomplished, I had the satisfaction to cut off the latter, and bring her to about nine o'clock, when she hauled down her colours and fired a gun to leeward; as soon as the prisoners were exchanged. I made sail after the other, and although nearly out of light, I had the good fortune before 5 P. M. to bring her to a kind of running action, which continued about half an hour, within musket shot at times, during which she kept up a smart but ill directed discharge of cannon and musketry, when she struck to his Majesty's ship: she is called the Furie, and under the orders of the captain of the Waakzaamheid, and had the commandant of the troops and a number of officers on board. I am happy to add, there was only one man wounded by a musket ball, and that his Majesty's ship suffered but little, one shot through her bowsprit: her rigging, &c. but little cut. The loss on board the Furie was eight men killed and fourteen wounded: her hull, masts, &c. have suffered much.
This expedition has been waiting an opportunity of sailing since the 21st of July last.—They left the Texel at 11 o'clock the preceding night. I have the honor to be, &c.
RICHARD KING.
* Waakzaamheid, Capt. Niersee, Senior Captain, mounting 26 guns, 24 nine pounders on the main deck, two six pounders on the forecastle, having 100 Dutch seamen, and 122 French troops (total 222) on board, also 2000 stands of arms, besides other ordnance stores.
Furie, Capt. Plets of 36 guns, 24 twelve pounders on the deck, and ten six pounders on her quarter deck and forecastle, with 153 Dutch seamen, and 165 French troops (total 318) on board, also 4000 stands of arms, besides other ordnance stores.
SUMMARY.
From the Boston Mercury.
The Draper, Collins of New York, is to bring the Irish Traitors to America! And is probably now near our Coast.
All the vessels with the Hoche were taken except two.
Another squadron of French frigates has appeared off Killala, and were about landing, when a British squadron came in sight, and drove them off, but could not overtake them.
The Dutch prisoners recently made, express the greatest abhorrence of the French; and offer to enter into the English merchant service.
A Paris paper of Nov. 12, says "the insurrection in Brabant does not appear likely to be soon quelled." The Council of 500 has proposed the pardoning of the Insurgents to induce their surrender.
The Cisalpine republic is convulsed with internal commotions which threaten its fall.
Paris is thought to be at the verge of another political eruption. A member of the 500 says, "he has proofs that 30 Representatives of the people are about to be denounced." He had been charged as an agent of Pitt, and demanded a trial, but was refused. Nightly meetings are held of the Patriots.—The new draft of the people to reinforce the armies, augments greatly the general dissatisfaction.
Genoa is in a disturbed state. The people are openly invited to rise and murder the French. The English have taken 5 Genoese vessels.
Certain demands of the Prussian Envoy at the Congress of Rastadt, relative to the neutral line, have been refused by the French Directory and Deputies.
The Russian army continues its march towards Austria, under the direction of that Empire.
The Austrians have entered the Grisons country to protect it from the French. The French in an attempt on it have been defeated.
Gen. Jourdan has signed his Resignation to resume his Military Office in France.
The prospect of a new coalition is greater than ever.
Sweden and Denmark, it is said will form part of the new coalition. This is necessary by their treaty with the Porte.
The Prince of Conde, it is said, has been killed with a musket ball.
It has been decided in England, that in a case of recapture it is not necessary to bring the vessel into port in order for salvage. Security may be taken at sea—and the vessel suffered to proceed.
Nelson does not intend a sudden return to England. He has recovered of his wound. The Turkish present entitles him to command their fleet whenever he falls in with it.
Pasha Oglou is yet master of Widwin.
Tippoo Saib has formed a Treaty offensive and defensive with the French. This the English say they expected and are prepared for.
BUONAPARTE.
Our late information respecting him and his Transports is not formally contradicted in the English prints, in which it has been published; and there is no confirmation. The communication between Constantinople and Vienna is intercepted by the plague at Belgrade, and thus the British Editors account for the non receipt of recent information from that quarter. French papers contain some private articles, which exhibit Sept. 17, as their date at Egypt, stating the French are completely successful there—and pushing on for India. But these accounts have met little attention.
MALTA.
The Maltese were furnished with arms & ammunition by the English for conquering their Island.
The French Commandant at Malta was killed.

THE GAZETTE.
Portland.
MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 1799.
Interesting.
FROM PHILADELPHIA—Jan 8.
No heed need be given to all the newspaper statements and suggestions respecting the imprisonment of five of the company of the American sloop of war Baltimore. They are foolish and unoffical, and every flimsy attempt to excuse, only makes it worse. All the facts known, are—five men were taken out of the Baltimore, and three vessels captured that were a part of her convoy, by commodore Loring (an old refugee from Roxbury) commanding a British squadron of 4 or 5 ships on the West India station—two of the vessels were returned and one detained. As the pretext was a mere idle one it was expected the other would be, or was released. The seizure of the men is the most important; and this it may be relied upon is in perfectly good hands—and if our rights are not given up till they are surrendered by John Adams, it will be a long time first.
The supposition is, that the wanton act was committed to gratify the remaining opinion of the commodore, and to show his disrespect to the infant navy of a government to which he had an early antipathy, and that it will be disavowed and punished by his government; or like insults will be repelled by the muzzle of the cannon so far as that will go.
January 9.
Inclosed is the President's Message on the subject of the wanton act of commodore Loring. The conduct of the President on the occasion I presume will have the approbation of all. The novelty and unexpectedness of the case may be plead in excuse for the American Captain. 'Tis said he is an excellent officer. The case would be hard if it should be necessary to make a rigid example, when the charge might be resolved into an error of judgment, in a case new, unexpected, but important. The duty of an officer in such a case is infinitely more difficult than when he has only to oppose force to force, let the difference be ever so great.
[The following is the spirited MESSAGE of the President mentioned in the above communication.]
Gentlemen of the House of Representatives.
In compliance with your desire, expressed in your Resolution of the 2d of this month, I lay before you an extract of a letter from George C. Morton, acting Consul of the United States at the Havanna, dated the 13th of November, 1798, to the Secretary of State, with a copy of a letter from him to L. Treveant, and William Simmons, Esquires, with their answer. Although your request extends no further, than such information as has been received, yet it may be a satisfaction to you to know, that as soon as this intelligence was communicated to me, a regular order was given by my direction, to all the commanders of our vessels of war, a copy of which is also herewith transmitted. I also directed this intelligence and these orders to be communicated to his Britannic Majesty's Royal Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary to the United States, and to our Minister Plenipotentiary to the Court of Great Britain, with instructions to him to make the proper representation to that government upon this subject.
It is but justice to say, that this is the first instance of ill behaviour of any of the British officers towards our vessels of war, that has come to my knowledge. According to all the representations that I have seen, the flag of the United States and its officers and men, have been treated by the civil and military authority of the British nation, in Nova Scotia, the West India Islands, and on the Ocean, with uniform civility, politeness and friendship. I have no doubt that this instance of ill conduct will be readily corrected.
JOHN ADAMS.
Jan. 8, 1799.
(CIRCULAR.)
To the Commanders of armed vessels in the service of the United States, given at the Navy Department, Dec. 29, 1798.
SIR, IT is the positive command of the President, that on no pretence whatever, you permit the public vessel of War under your command to be boarded or searched; nor any of the officers or men belonging to her, to be taken from her by the ships or vessels of any foreign nation, so long as you are in a capacity to repel such outrage on the honor of the American Flag. If force should be exerted to compel your submission, you are to resist that force to the utmost of your power, and when overpowered by superior force, you are to strike your flag, and thus yield your vessel as well as your men; but never your men without your vessel. You will remember, however, that your demeanor be respectful and friendly to the vessels and people of all nations in amity with the United States; and that you avoid as carefully, the commission of, as the submission to, insult or injury.
I have the honor to be, Sir, your obedient servant, BEN. STODDERT.
Accounts from Baltimore state, that the troops lately arrived at Guadaloupe have forcibly arrested Victor Hughes and confined him on board one of the frigates to be sent to France.
An incendiary attempt has been made to set fire to the Continental armed ship Portsmouth. The design was nearly accomplished when the discovery was made; several brands ends were placed with some light stuff, before it was discovered by the sentry. Five sailors have been arrested on suspicion.
The Secretary of the Navy, has reported the annual expense of the contemplated augmentation of the navy, at 2,603,293 dollars. [This augmentation will be of Twelve Ships of SixTY-FOUR guns, besides frigates & sloops of war.]
The American Minister at the Court of St. James, has remonstrated to the British government, against sending the convicted United States seamen to this country.
In the course of the last month, the exports from Boston, amounted to upwards of three millions of dollars.
There has been a report of the death of Gen. Washington, but it is entirely without foundation: Letters from Baltimore say, that it was circulated on the 4th.—We have seen a letter from the General at Mount Vernon of the same date. (Philad. Gaz.)
FIRE!—We learn from Sullivan, that on Christmas day last, the dwelling house of Capt. James Grant, together with all the furniture (except one bed) were consumed by fire. (Cousin's Journal)
LOGAN is attempting to introduce Tom Paine's intamous "Age of Reason" as a school book.—Precious Republican!
No peace for Jacobins!
CHARLES WEBBER, of Vassalborough known by his being concerned in raising a French privateer and burning certain laws, presented a petition to the Hon. Court of Sessions for the county of Lincoln, for a licence to keep a house of public entertainment, which petition was unanimously rejected.
Dearborn, and gang.
That restless spirit of the Jacobins, which so frequently threatens the tranquillity of peace, would soon collapse were it not for the countenance and aid of a few designing men, whose extreme obstinacy is only equalled by their inveteracy to the Federal Government.—The Kennebec printer, finding it would not answer to temporize with the party, declared his press should be devoted to the cause of Federalism. In consequence of this, General Dearborn, and about thirty of his adherents, immediately withdrew their names from his list. But the number was instantly made up by the federalists.—I am informed, however, that the Jacobins are making exertions to establish a Jacobin press somewhere on the Kennebec; and that one Edmund Freeman is to be the printer.—Should the attempt succeed, it will doubtless awaken the vigilance of the friends of our country. Even the Jacobins appreciate the importance of the press.
A newspaper has lately commenced publication at Castine, at the mouth of Penobscot river. Its politics are—not anti federal.
[Mr. Hutchinson Noyes, of Falmouth, has several times importuned me for the name of the author of "Public Spirit"—complaining that he felt himself aggrieved by the note here recited. On my withholding the author's name, he urged the insertion of the following, which I give without further comment, leaving Public Spirit to take his own ground.]
MR. JENKS, IN your GAZETTE of the 31 December last, the following appeared as a note to a piece signed Public Spirit:—'Tis said that on the President's birthday, when all the masters of vessels in Haverhill, had hoisted the American flag in honor of the day except one who was in a small coasting vessel purchasing cider: a citizen of that town enquired the reason of this singularity, and asked if he had no colors. He answered, he would see the President dead—before he would honor him so much; but that he would hoist a bloody flag at half mast, and from other observations of that kind;—these were repeated at the table when the federal citizens dined together in public. The consequence was this—they chose a committee of six to wait on the malcontent, and demand satisfaction for the insult. They immediately found him out, obliged him to pull down the bloody flag, which was actually hoisted—bleed the American ensign, ask their pardon for such behaviour, and promise repentance and reformation—upon this they let him go unpunished. This man I understand lives in Falmouth.
We the subscribers all belonging on board the vessel alluded to do declare that the above is false, scandalous and malicious and that the writer is a scoundrel. HUTCHINSON NOYES. ROWLAND DAVIS, master of schr. Ruby. AMOS KNIGHT. Falmouth, Jan 8, 1799.
DIED—At Castine, Miss Nancy Mann, aged 19.
Marine Articles.
Port of Portland.
Tuesday last, arrived brig Eliza, Captain Bragdon, 43 days from Tortola. January 1, spoke ship Independence, Isaac Parker, master, about six leagues south from Gayhead, bound to the Havanna.
Same day arrived schooner Centurion, Capt. Philip Greela, 30 days from Martinique. Left there schr. John, Russell, Salem; schr. James, Cook, of Kingston.—Jan. 8th, lat 38 long. 71, spoke ship Liberty, of Philadelphia, 8 weeks from Liverpool—all well.
NEW PUBLICATION.
Now in the Press, & shortly will be published,
THE Maine Spelling Book;
Containing RULES and EXAMPLES for SPELLING & PRONOUNCING the ENGLISH LANGUAGE; WITH A VARIETY OF EASY, MORAL, and ENTERTAINING LESSONS FOR READING; Adapted to the capacities of Children. TO WHICH IS ANNEXED,
A Concise Geographical Description of MAINE;
Its Boundaries, Bays, Islands, Counties, Capital Towns, Mountains, Rivers, Character, &c.
Designed for the Use of SCHOOLS, in the DISTRICT of MAINE.
BY THOMAS M. PRENTISS, PRECEPTOR OF UNION SCHOOL—PORTLAND.
The want of Education in a State, Our rustic nature fits for mad career— 'Tis like (oh may it never be our lot) The loss of seed time to the fruitful year.
Portland, Jan. 1799.
Take Notice.
ALL persons having demands against ICHABOD LARRABEE, late of Cape Elizabeth, Mariner, deceased are notified to bring in their claims for payment—and all persons indebted, to make payment without delay to JONATHAN LARRABEE. Cape Elizabeth, Jan 16, 1799.
To the Public.
THE President and Directors of the MASSACHUSETTS FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, anxious to keep in view the principle of public benefit, which gave origin to their institution, and to lessen, as far as in their power, the severity of misfortunes consequent from those devastating fires to which we are exposed have determined to reduce the Rates of Insurance, so low, as they presume will meet the circumstances of every class of citizens. For a trifling sum annually, every individual can now have in his power, to secure to himself and family, a part of the earnings, perhaps of a long life, from the grasp of this merciless tyrant, and to equalize his losses on the community. By these cautionary means, while he preserves the reward of his industry, he saves his feelings from the shock of humbling himself to petition, and secures the right boldly to demand compensation.
The present rates of Insurance are as follows, calculated on a scale of reduction of 25 per cent, from the former rates, viz.
1st Class—Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls, and slate tile, lead, copper, or composition roofs, standing separate from other buildings—50 cents on 100 dollars.
2d Class—Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls, and slate, tile, lead, copper, or composition roofs, connected with other buildings, having brick partition walls of one or more feet above the roof—55 cents.
3d Class—Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls, and wooden roofs, that stand separate from or connected with other buildings, with brick partition walls of one or more feet above the roof—60 cents.
4th Class—Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls and wooden roofs, connected with other buildings, without brick partition walls—65 cents.
5th Class—Houses or Stores, of wood or plaster walls, standing separate from other buildings—70 cents.
6th Class—Houses or Stores of wood, connected with other buildings—80 cents.
Where buildings are occupied for hazardous trades, or for storing hazardous merchandise, the premiums are regulated by the materials of the buildings, their situation, and the purposes to which they are applied. Houses, &c. in the country situated remotely from external hazards are insured at reduced rates. All losses are paid by the Company in CASH, without any deduction in thirty days after proof.
Per Order WILLIAM SCOLLAY, Sec'y.
N. B. Letters directed to the Secretary (Postage paid) will be duly attended to. FIRE OFFICE, No. 16. State-Street, Boston, 27th Dec 1798.
List of Letters,
Remaining in Wells Post-office, Jan. 9th, 1799.
BENJAMIN ADAMS, Kennebec; Joseph Barnard, do. George Bickford, Arundel; John Bennett Wells, Joshua Eaton, and Stephen Emery, of Wells; Joshua Gray, jun. Wells; Henry Hart, jun. Wells; William Hall, Arundel; David Jewell, Frankfort; Benjamin Littlefield, 4th, Kennebec; Capt. Daniel Merrill Arundel; Capt. John Paton, Arundel; Capt. Jonathan Perkins, do. Anna Robinson, Alfred; Jonathan Stevens, Wells; Isaac Wortman, Kennebec 2; John Welfter, Wells; Capt. Jacob Wids, do. Nathan Wells, do. John Light Wells, do. Jonathan Young, Kennebec.
Taken up adrift,
SOMETIME in the month of December last, at a place called Parker's Point, in North-yarmouth, a CHEBAGO BOAT, called the DOVE of North-yarmouth; with one cable parted—having on board a small quantity of salt, a few dry fish, and some green ditto. The owner may have laid boat, and the articles found on board, by proving property, paying charges and applying to
RICHARD PARKER.
North-yarmouth, Jan. 9, 1799.
John O. Watts,
Informs his customers and others, that he has REMOVED to the store in Fifth Street, lately occupied by the Rev. JOSEPH WARREN, where he has for sale on the lowest terms for cash or approved credit, a fresh assortment of
English, W. India, & Hard-ware GOODS.
AMONG WHICH ARE,
SUPERFINE & second Broadcloths, Pongee & Cambric, Swanflown, Brown Hollands, an assortment of Calicoes and Chintzes, tambour and needle worked Muslins from 7s to 18s per yard, plain do. from 4s to 10s, tambour and needle worked Neck-cloths, Ladies' Muslin Handkerchiefs, Cambric, Shawls, Bandanas and other Handkerchiefs, India Cottons of all prices, Oil Cloths per piece or yard, black and white Edgings and Laces, Threads, No. 4 and other Ribbons, Tapes and Babbins, Men's Gloves, Gentlemen's and Ladies' Hats, Hair Powder, Aws.
A variety of Buttons and Buckles, large and small Spoons, Pins, white chapel Needles, double spring Locks, Playing Cards, Jack and Pen Knives, Desk ditto, Knives and Forks, quart and pint Jack, Flat-iron, 4d 5d and 6d Brads, Gun Pistols, Bits, Whip, crooked and dressing Combs, H & H L. Huges Pewter, Block-in Tea Pots, Augers, Candlesticks, Bed Cords, 7 by 9 and 8 by 10 Window Glass, shoe Knives, Hammers and Aws.
Allspice, Pepper, Cinnamon, Nutmegs, Rice, Chocolate Snuff, Tobacco, Segars, &c. &c. &c.
A few very nice FOWLING PIECES.
N. B. All persons indebted to said Watts, are requested to make immediate payment. Portland, Jan. 17.
JOSEPH CROSS,
(who formerly did business in the store now occupied by STEVENS & HOVEY)
Informs his friends and the public, that he has recommenced business, in the NEW STORE, at the head of Mr. INGERSOLL'S Wharf, where he has just opened and has now ready for sale, a Variety of
European, W. India, & other GOODS.
AMONG WHICH ARE,
Broadcloths—Cambric—Elastick Cloth—Forest Cloth—Flannels—Bazes—Blankets—Duties—Devonshire Kerseys—Lambkins—Waistcoats—Petticoats—Figured Thickets—Fancy twilled do.—Calicoes—Mullins—India Cottons—Domies—Linnens—Mouselines—Durants—Noreen—Shawls—Satin—Mouselines—Black Gauze—Sewn Silk—Turras and Twill Old Cloths—Bell Tickling—Ravens and Russia Duck—Cotton Hose—Ladies' Kid Gloves—Cannon do.—Large and small Scissors—Women's cloth Shoes—Hats—Bread Trays—Elegant Servers—Assortment of Buttons—Knives and Forks—Jack and pen Knives—Slates—Large Kettles—Brass ditto—4d, 5d, 6d and 8d Nails—7 by 9 Glass—Salt fish—of different kinds—Pepper—Ginger—Cinnamon—Excellent Raisins, per cask—Candles—Bohea and Souchong Tea—Coffee—Chocolate—Loaf and Brown Sugar—Brussels, of different kinds—Shovels—Tobacco—W. India—N. E. ditto per barrell—Brandy—Malaga Wine, &c. &c.
Excellent Rhode-island Cheese.
The above Goods being laid in on the lowest terms, will be sold cheap for CASH ONLY. No credit will be given. Portland, January 5th, 1799.
Cumberland County.
THE Collectors of the County tax, for the year 1798, are notified, that Executions will issue against all that are delinquent on the 1st of February next.
JOSEPH MELLAN, Treasurer.
Nov. 23, 1798.
TO BE LET— OR SOLD ON GENEROUS CREDIT,
A Convenient Tenement,
ment, for a family, with a Shop in front; together with a garden, yard and convenient out house—Situated opposite Market-square in this town—Inquire of the PRINTER. Dec. 24.
TO BE SOLD,
A small Lot of LAND, fronting the COURT HOUSE, in PORTLAND, Seventy two feet square.—For particulars, inquire of the PRINTER.
Likewise,
about 600 cwt. Rigging.
At JACOB NOYES'S STORE.
Dec. 24, 1798.
Justices' Blanks, for sale at this Office.
JENKS'S SHEET ALMANACK. A few of the above Almanacks may be had this Office. Dec. 31.

POETRY.
MIDNIGHT THOUGHTS.
[By C. Jones, a Newcomber, Devonshire]
LOCK'D are the golden gates of Day, 'Tis thine, O Night! the keys to keep, Morpheus in velvet's soft array, Has laid the busy world to sleep.
The lover, free from hopes and fears, In ecstasy impairs the kiss; The nymph undone forgets her tears, Exalting in imagin'd bliss.
Deception all! 'Tis thus through life Our passions grasp at each extreme; Pleasure and pain's external strife Convince life is all a dream.
Yet hail! kind sleep, in poppies drest, Health's sweetest sister, queen of peace! In thee distraction finds its rest, In thee our daily troubles cease.
MISCELLANY.
FOR THE GAZETTE.
Extract of a SERMON,
PREACHED IN THE VICINITY OF PORTLAND, On the late Annual Thanksgiving.
"MUST peace, with all her smiling train, be exiled from our happy land, which has so long been the blest asylum of the persecuted and distressed of every nation? And must War, with all his hellish crew be introduced in their stead? God forbid it!—But rather let this be the case, than sacrifice our freedom, our independence, our religion, our ALL, to the caprice of an overbearing, blood-thirsty, and money-thirsty nation. Our religion and liberty are the last things we should give up. Ungrateful wretches indeed, if we will not encounter every difficulty in their just defence against the unreasonable assaults of France, or any foreign nation whatever.
But altho' the son of prosperity, has not of late, shone upon us with such distinguished lustre, as formerly, yet there are many things, even in our present situation, however melancholy it may seem, which demand our grateful notice. The important intelligence hitherto differed by some political inuendos, is at length confirmed by official accounts from admiral Nelson himself. The invincible fleet of France has fallen a dreadful sacrifice, to the swakness of Great-Britain. This being the case, and as it is likewise probable that the French Idol and Tyrant will soon be shorn of the beard of his strength, and become weak like other men, the probability is that, our good friends & allies will defer for a season their benevolent intentions towards us. The decision and union, which so generally prevails among the people at large, is likewise worthy our grateful remembrance. Nor should we forget to mention with emotions of the warmest gratitude, what is particularly recommended by our excellent and beloved Governor, the continuance of the important life of the chief Magistrate of the United States. Mr. Adams has long been the glory of our country, the wonder of the world, and I trust the admiration of Heaven itself. His wisdom and integrity vie with each other for pre-eminence. In spite of fashionable infidelity he has long professed our holy religion, and his practice has uniformly corresponded with his christian profession. As a scholar and politician, he is universally respected; as a christian and a patriot, universally beloved, by the wise and good. With as much success, might the weakest and most insignificant of animals attempt to devour the fierce and voracious Lion, as the Irish Lion of the mountains, with all the furies of earth and hell in his rear, to injure the reputation of JOHN ADAMS.
With a man of such wisdom, firmness, and integrity at its helm, have we not reason to hope, that our political bark will be safely steered (notwithstanding the storm which now threatens and may molest it for a while) to the blest haven of renewed peace, and established independence.
Long may the invaluable life and usefulness of our beloved PRESIDENT, be continued to our country! Long may he have the pleasing satisfaction of seeing religion and liberty flourishing under his generous patronage! And when the king of kings shall summon him to the fuller services of Heaven, when America, clad in her mourning garb, shall bewail, with floods of tears, the loss of her Savior Adams, may the chair of the Union be again virtuously and honorably filled, and our country, headed by Adams's and Washington's, stand unmoved amid the commotions of other countries, and ever hold a distinguished rank among the nations of the earth!
What shall we render unto the Lord for all his benefits? The best and most acceptable return we can make to the author of all our blessings, is to yield a cheerful and unreserved obedience to his holy will. If thus we uniformly testify our gratitude for divine favors towards us, we shall finally be admitted to the Thanksgiving above—a Thanksgiving, not with a few, not for a day, but with the whole people of God, through the ages of eternity, when boundless space shall resound with the praises of Jehovah."
FROM THE FARMER'S MUSEUM.
Nomen, et praeterita nihil.
'TIS said that when Ferdinand and Isabella were solicited by Columbus, for the equipment of a small fleet for the discovery of this continent, the idea of the expedition of the Arca , from the ark of Noah, on the same errand, struck their minds so forcibly, and formed so happy an allusion from the Roman name of Noah's messenger, to that of the Genoese peddler, that they were induced to grant his request, as much by this circumstance as by the novelty and boldness of the enterpriser, or the abilities and perseverance of the man.
Columbus is the Latin word for Dove.
FOR THE GAZETTE.
The Second Book of Chronicles.
CHAP. I.
VERSE 1. NOW it came to pass in the days of Mendax, that his sister named Etai, of the land of Old Town, near unto Joppa, went unto the land of Goshen, where they dwelt, with her mother, to visit them.
2. And it so happened, that Draknurd's wife had gone to dwell for a short time with her friends, by the sea side, in a place near unto Old Town.
3. And Etai kept Draknurd's house, and they lived quietly and peaceably together, for some time, even until the return of Draknurd's wife.
4. And it came to pass, that Draknurd's wife, Etai the damsel, and all the rest and residue of the family, soon got by the ears. They swore, fought, and made a great noise round about Goshen.
5. And the noise of their wranglings disturbed the good people of the land much. And they said one to another, what do all these things mean?
6. And when Mendax heard thereof, he arose and went unto his brother's house, even to Draknurd's, and said unto him, why do you suffer quarrelling and fighting in your house, seeing you are a priest?
7. Now Mendax was a poor, proud, haughty, ugly looking man. And altho' he regarded not the truth, yet did he direct Draknurd in all his ecclesiastical affairs, ruled over him and all his household, and they thought him some great one.
8. And Draknurd having taken a little juice of the grape (for he loved it dearly) said unto Mendax, What shall I do? for my wife despiseth my words, letteth at nought my councils, and will take none of my reproofs.
9. And the quarrelleth with me both night and day, so that I cannot sleep or slumber—and it grieveth me to hear that I ever took her to wife.
10. And Mendax answered and said unto Draknurd, take advice of me and obey my commands; and it shall so come to pass, that when thy wife heareth the words, that I shall speak unto thee, that she will not refuse or strive against thee.
11. And Draknurd said nay, but she will not hearken unto me—come I pray thee, speak unto her thyself, persuade her the will hearken unto thee.
12. And Mendax and Draknurd took council together how they might settle the harish—And at Mendax's command, Draknurd's wife, Etai the damsel, and others of the family came forth, and when they were all seated,
13. Mendax opened his wide gaping mouth and said, it is not good that ye do; ought ye not to live in peace one with another and to walk in the fear of God, because of the reproach that it bringeth upon our family.
14. And he moreover spake and said, there is a goodly young man of this place, whom Etai loveth and ye know how that she is far advanced in life, but peradventure he may take her to wife if he hears not bad reports concerning her.
15. And for Etai's sake they gave heed unto Mendax and said one to another, we will be at peace one with another—But they soon forgot their promises, soon forgot the thundering voice of Mendax.
16. Nevertheless Etai went to the young man's house and said unto him, Take me I pray thee unto wife, because I live in a dreary desolate land, my nearest neighbours are the dead, and my house is as ancient as the hill—long hollow entries, wooden latches and tow strings are its greatest ornaments.
17. And the young man said unto Etai, I will treat thee kindly, I will be unto thee as a brother.
18. And this saying pleased Etai and her brothers much; and they said unto the young man thou art our brother.
19. Now when Etai was about to depart and go out of the land of Goshen and return to the land of Old Town; that she said unto the young man, come and see the place where I have dwelt all the days of my life long—
20. And the young man answered and said unto her I will call and see thee whenever I go into the land of Old Town.
21. And when Draknurd and Mendax heard, that the young man was about to journey westward, to the land of his nativity, and that he would pass through Old Town—they said unto all the people around about Goshen then yet a little while and the young man will take Etai our sister to wife & come & dwell in our land amongst us.
22. And they noted it abroad so much, that the people of the land laughed them to scorn.
23. And they sent letters to the people of the land of Old Town and all the regions round about.
24. Now these were the words of the letters—A young man of our land is about to take Etai our sister to wife—Now when ye shall see him in your land, speak kindly to him of our sister; tell him of the grandeur of our family; how many titles were conferred upon them without their deserving them; how many posts and offices they held when they ought to have been tied to the post of correction.
25. And when the young man went into the land of Old Town, he called at the house of Etai and found it even as the told him concerning it.
26. And the people of the land of Old Town and all the regions round about spake unto the young man as they had been directed by Draknurd and Mendax.
27. And when the young man returned to the land of Goshen, Draknurd the priest said unto him, when wilt thou take Etai my sister to wife?
28. And the young man answered and said unto Draknurd, I know not, as I never have as yet agreed to take her at all. Now this saying struck Draknurd dumb, and he will not what to say.
29. Now it came to pass not many days after, that Draknurd was told by his wife, that the young man had forsaken Etai his sister and would not take her to wife.
30. And Draknurd was very wroth and said I will write unto my sister even unto Etai and know whether the young man will take her to wife.
31. Now these are the words of Draknurd's letter which he sent unto his sister—Etai my sister, will the young man of Goshen, whom thou lovest take thee to wife or not?
32. And Etai wrote him the following letter:—Dear brother, I know not whether the young man whom thou mentionest will take me to wife or not, as he never told me that he would; therefore I believe that thou wouldst call upon him and ask him whether he will; but I must conclude dear brother by subscribing myself your affectioned sister.
33. Now when Draknurd had read the words of this letter, he went out and wept loudly.
Samuel Waldo's Estate.
NOTICE is hereby given to all concerned, that the subscriber has been duly appointed Administrator to the estate of SAMUEL WALDO, late of Portland in the county of Cumberland, Merchant, deceased; and has taken upon herself that trust by giving bond as the law directs. She therefore requests all persons, who have any demands on said estate, to bring in the same for settlement; and all those who are indebted to said estate to make payment without delay, to
SARAH TYNG WALDO, Administratrix. Portland, December 18, 1798.
Simeon Quinby's Estate.
THE subscribers hereby give notice to all concerned, That having been duly appointed administrators upon the estate of SIMEON QUINBY, late of Falmouth, in the county of Cumberland, clothier, deceased, have taken up themselves that trust, and given bond as the law directs. They therefore request all persons who are indebted to said deceased's estate to make immediate payment, and those who have any demands thereon to exhibit the same to
SALLY QUINBY, } Administratrices. Falmouth, Dec. 29, 1798. ELLAZER BURBANK, } sur.
William Cogswell's Estate.
NOTICE is hereby given to all concerned, that the subscriber has been duly appointed Administrator to the estate of WILLIAM COGSWELL, late of Portland in the county of Cumberland, Merchant, deceased, and has taken upon herself that trust by giving bond as the law directs. She therefore requests all persons, who have any demands on said estate, to bring in the same for settlement; and all those, who are indebted to said estate, to make payment without delay, to
HANNAH P. COGSWELL, Administratrix. Portland, December 4, 1798.
Asa Sanborn's Estate.
THE subscriber hereby gives notice to all concerned, That he hath been duly appointed Administrator on the estate of ASA SANBORN, late of Gorham, in the county of Cumberland, yeoman, deceased, and given bond as the law directs. As such he hereby calls upon all persons who have any claims against said estate, to exhibit the same, and upon those who are indebted to said estate, to make immediate payment to
ELISHA SANBORN. Gorham, Dec. 20, 1798.
THE undersigned Vice Consul of His Majesty the King of Sweden, and authorized to transact the Consular business for His Majesty the King of Denmark within the States of New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, hereby notifies all Captains of vessels of the respective nations, and all persons trading under the protection of their flags, that it is requisite their ships papers should be exhibited at this office, and that he has instructions then to furnish them such certificates as the urgency of existing circumstances renders necessary to evince the neutrality of the vessel and property.
CHARLES F. DEGEN. Consular Office, Boston, Dec. 14, 1798.
The different Printers in the several States are requested to give publicity to the above.
LIST of LETTERS,
Remaining in the Post-Office, not before advertised.
PORTLAND, JANUARY 1, 1799.
THOMAS C. Attiwich, Capt. Thomas Arnold, James Alden, Jonathan Adams, Benjamin Ayer, Stridewater.
Nicholas Bluffel, John Benson, Nathaniel Brackett, John Baker ad. 1, Jacob Bradbury, John Brook, Lydia Bryant, Joseph Barbour, George Berry, Falmouth, Solomon Bouay.
Eleonora Cummings, George J. Cummin, Daniel D. Collins, Benj. Carey, William Cobb, Falmouth, H. Codman, Sarah Cogswell, Falmouth, Isaac Choate, Stridewater, Joseph Cross, Wm. Cowperthwaite, Waid Chipman.
Mrs Mary Daley, John Deering, Capt. Delano, Samuel Dingley, Raymondstown, Mrs. Elizabeth Dean, Joseph Doe.
Dean Frye, Mr. Fernald, Pepperell Forest, Falmouth, William Francis, Samuel Fitts.
John Glover. Joseph Hepper, David Howard, Greela Hanaford, Joel Hall, Falmouth.
Mrs Sarah Jackson, Wm. Jenks, Mrs Rachel Jackson, Cape Elizabeth, Mrs. Catherine Johnson, Wm. Johnson.
Henry Lang, Michael Little, Downing Lee, Mr. Lellan, N. M'Leilan.
Abel Michener, John Mairs, Cape Elizabeth, Thomas Mann, Levi Morrill, Falmouth, Thomas Minot.
James Neal, Neal & Andrews.
David Oldin.
A's Plummer, Mrs Avis Pollard, Thomas Phillips, Waterford, Samuel Pearson, William Proctor, 2, John Paton, Wm. M'Fetrie, Capt. Prince, James Root, Timothy Pike, Falmouth.
Joshua Robinson, Capt. Russell, Wm. Rogers, Mrs. Rebecca King, Jesse Richards.
Nathaniel Shaw, Robert Stover, George Small David Sterrett, Falmouth, Jonas Smith, Robert Strong, Nathaniel Stone, Waltham, Ebenezer Simonton, 2, Cape Elizabeth, Daniel Smith, John Shepherd, Raymond.
Benjamin Trott, Peaks Island.
David Viney, Waltham.
Benjamin Williams, Joseph Watts, Andrew Webber, Josiah Washburn, Cape Elizabeth, Abraham Wilson.
127 Twp. names within seven miles are of Portland.
General Prices Current, PER QUANTITY.—BOSTON, JAN. 12.
Table with 4 columns: Item, Price per unit, Price per cwt, Price per bag. Items include ASHES, Bread, Butter, Beef, Beans, Brandy, Beer, Cocoa, Coffee, Cotton, Chocolate, Candles, Cheese, Cod, Fish, Scale, Salmon, Herring, Mackerel, Furs, Bear, Fox, Mink, Muskrat, Otter, Fish, FLOUR, Alexandria, Feathers, Flaxseed, Glass, Grain, Corn, Rye, Oats, Hemp, Hops, Hog Lard, Iron, Philadelphia, Russia, Sweden, Leather, Lumber, Molasses, Nail Rods, Nuts, Pepper, Pork, Raisins, Rum, Rye, Soap, Sugar, Salt, Steel, Tea, Tobacco, Wine, Lisbon, Sherry, Claret, Malaga.
ALMANACK table with 5 columns: JANUARY, S, M, T, W, H, W. Days of the month and corresponding dominical letters and moon phases.
THIS GAZETTE, Is published every MONDAY, at E. A. JENKS'S OFFICE, Middle-Street, near the head of Fifth-Street, PORTLAND—where Subscriptions, Advertisements, and Communications are received with attention. The price is ONE DOLLAR & FIFTY CENTS per year, Exclusive of Postage. $3 Annual payments are required. The extensive and rapidly increasing circulation of THE GAZETTE, renders it a highly advantageous medium for ADVERTISEMENTS, which will be inserted in proportion to the length of time, and in a conspicuous manner. PRINTING, In its various branches executed in the neatest manner, and at the lowest prices. Orders for Books, Pamphlets, Envelopes, Blank-Notes, Cards, Tickets, &c. duly attended to.