The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1808-08-24 00:00:00

National Intelligencer.
WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
NO. 1237.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24, 1808.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
CONGRESS.
Debate on the bill for arming the whole of the militia of the United States— (CONCLUDED.)
Mr. Rhea said he was much disappointed to find such a bill as this providing for purchasing arms, without any provision to make disposition of them after they were procured. He would never agree that the militia should hold their arms but as their own property and independent of the U. S.; and he would never give a vote which should put it in the power of the U. S. to recall the arms once bestowed. Would the gentleman agree that the great state of Virginia or any other great state should receive arms from the U. S. to arm the militia, subject to the recall of the U. S.? He thought not. Mr. R. observed, that the House had been told that the whole world was against us. The U. S. had ministers at the courts of the two great powers of Europe. Certainly those two powers did not possess the most favorable disposition towards us; but he would never agree, while we had ministers with both, and they had ministers with us, that we were at war with them. Mr. R. said he should cheerfully vote for the bill if it were so arranged as to be prepared to go into operation; and for this purpose it was that he wished it recommitted.
Mr. Nicholas said he had this subject much at heart. He thought one of the most important services they could render the nation would be to provide arms for every one in it. He lamented that they could not do it at once; for it was but too true that they could not—nor for the want of money; for so anxious was he to accomplish the object that he would vote for a tax to raise the whole immediately, or raise it by any other mode, if gentlemen would only shew him how by voting money they could procure arms. If arms could be had, he pledged himself to vote money to arm the whole nation. If the people were armed, said he, we might bid defiance to the whole world. It is true that other nations have more men; but no one nation has better or braver men, or men who would go greater lengths in defending what we have—and why? Because there are no people on earth who have so much to defend. Name to me a country where a man has that at stake which we have. I lament that there are none; that there are not upon this globe men who have as much at stake as we have; and I trust that as long as the American nation exists its spirit will not forsake it, and that when called into action we shall always shew it. But it does seem to me that the appropriation made at this time should be rational—such a sum as can be employed. It is agreed on all hands that we can get no arms by importation, and few additional by manufacture within the ensuing year. A gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Ely) who certainly has a right to know, believes that the armories cannot be extended. In that I believe he is mistaken; no doubt that within twelve months any number of armories could be obtained. I believe that the 300,000 dollars already appropriated this session, together with the ordinary annual appropriation of 150,000 dollars, making altogether 450,000 dollars, will be as much as can be applied within this year. I believe that another appropriation might be made authorizing the President of the U. S. to establish other armories, as I believe the public interest would be promoted by scattering armories. Instead then of appropriating a million I would propose to strike out the clause making the appropriation annual, and to insert 200,000 dollars; and I do believe that this is all that we can do. I do not believe we should promote the public good by locking up in the treasury a larger sum than can be employed in the succeeding year. I had rather that the committee should go through the bill, for I very much fear, if we re-commit it, we shall never see it again the present session.
The committee then rose 56 to 29, and reported progress.
The Speaker having put the question that the committee have leave to sit again—
Mr. Randolph hoped they would have leave to sit again. He adverted to the preceding remarks of Mr. Nicholas. He was astonished after the gentleman's exordium, to hear him
mention the sum of 200,000 dollars—a sum as one to ten of that which the gentleman had the other day voted for a regular force, while the militia were in proportionate value to that army as one hundred to one. This was a very good criterion by which to judge of the preference of some gentlemen to one species of force over another.
Mr. Nicholas said that by the sum which he proposed to appropriate, as much would be expended for the object of the bill and as much attached to it be shown to the militia as was manifested by the gentleman from Virginia. I did say, said Mr. N. that if any gentleman would shew me how it could be expended, I would vote for it. Let it be shown, and I will vote for it; but until it be shown to be a real efficient measure, I will not vote so large a sum; and my vote will be understood by any gentleman as he pleases.
Mr. Randolph. It certainly will be understood by one gentleman as he pleases, whether another gentleman pleases or not. This bill does shew how the money is to be laid out, said Mr. R. By establishing additional manufactory and authorizing additional workmen. This is the quo modo . How could it be plainer? It is to be presumed too, that although European nations will not permit the exportation of arms, they will not find it possible to embargo all the armories. It is to be presumed that when the U. S. States have made an appropriation of one million of dollars to be applied to this object, that European artisans will find their object in coming to this country and receiving that money in wages. It is to be laid out in giving encouragement to armories of whom my friend from Maryland (Mr. Lloyd) has spoken. This is the way in which they may be had. Suppose any gentleman were to say when an appropriation is proposed for the army, "this army is a mere make believe; if gentlemen will shew me how the money can be laid out I am willing to vote it; but I do not believe it can, and therefore shall vote against it." Now I really do not believe that the money for the army will be laid out upon the soldiers; I believe it will as far as the pay and emoluments of the officers go, but not on soldiers. It is indeed very extraordinary that with such a body of militia as we have we can consider ourselves authorised to lay out millions on a few additional regular troops, and restrict ourselves to a couple of hundred thousand dollars in arming the militia. It has not a good aspect. I question no man's motives, I have not a right to do so; but I will throughout life judge men by their acts in contradistinction to their professions. I am willing to submit myself to that kind of scrutiny. If I hear men declaiming against standing armies and voting for them; professing a wish to prevent contractors from multiplying and doing every thing to promote their increase; professing themselves to be in favor of arming the militia, and after every species of evasion, throwing cold water on that object—I must certainly draw my own conclusions. I remember very well the time when the gentlemen who enacted and re-enacted the sedition law declared that they were the true friends of the press and only enemies of its abuse; they were inimical to licentiousness, but friendly to liberty. I choose to judge them by their conduct and not by their professions. That gentlemen have a right to refuse appropriations I do not question; but I cannot persuade myself that a man who is unwilling to lay out the necessary sum, has the object of the expenditure as much at heart as those who are willing to give it. Would it not be very fair, if I would vote only one fifth part of the money called for for the additional army, so say that I have it not as much at heart as those who are willing to go through with it? Undoubtedly. The bill in question may be defective, but as far as it goes it is complete. It provides the mode in which the money shall be laid out; it empowers the President to establish additional armories, and to employ additional workmen, and how otherwise are arms to be had? In no way. The bill therefore provides for the expenditure of the money; and if all the money appropriated cannot be expended, what will be the consequence? Like all other sums of money appropriated and not expended, it will, after a certain time be carried to the credit of the surplus fund, or in other words, carried back into the treasury.
Mr. Nicholas said if it were intended by the bill to lay out one million of dollars in armories, he would not vote for it, for he did believe that 200,000 dollars were as much as could be expended in that way. For he said that 450,000 dollars already appropriated was as much as could be expended for arms this year, and 200,000 was as much as could or ought to be expended in armories. The erection of an armory was not a thing of a day. Were ten millions now to be appropriated for this purpose they would not get one musket from them in 12 months. The object then, said he, will be accomplished as soon as my proposition as by the gentleman's. Does the gentleman believe that passing this bill will make workmen or bring them from Europe in one or three months? These things will do to talk of, but are of no advantage to the nation. And I say again and again that my proposition will produce as much effect as that of the gentleman himself. Is there a gentleman who will tell us that more than 200,000 dollars can be expended in armories before Congress re-assembles? The appropriation of 200,000 dollars will further the object I have in view as much as an appropriation now of ten millions.
Mr. Lyon thought a larger sum should be appropriated, for the President learnt the object of Congress from the amount of their appropriations. He would of course cut the coat according to the cloth if only 200,000 were appropriated; although in propriety and expediency he should cut the cloth according to the coat. He was therefore for giving a larger sum.
Whilst Mr. Lyon was speaking, a quorum not appearing within the bar, the House adjourned.
MONDAY, APRIL 18.
The question having been put that the committee have leave to sit again.
Mr. Holland opposed the motion. He said that the constitution had never contemplated such a system as this. It was contemplated by the constitution that the militia should be armed by the United States when called into their service; but not that they should be supplied with arms, equipments, &c. to perform duty at musters, &c. for the several states. He objected to it on another principle—that it imposed an artificial obligation on the citizens of the respective states, which might be incompatible with their character as citizens of those states. Suppose a man called out to service by his own state, said Mr. H. and a call were at the same time made upon him to serve the United States—would not his duty to the state be paramount to all others? The principle of self preservation would dictate that duty; and this bill goes to establish an obligation on him under force of which he may be compelled to leave his own state when she most needs his services. A contract is impliedly made by his receiving arms from the general government, that he is to serve them whenever called upon—why? Because he has received a bounty for enlistment. He is under a natural obligation to serve his own state; but he stands embarrassed, when at the same time the general government demands his services as a matter of right; and the state not having treated him with the same kindness as the general government, his natural obligation to the state of course relaxes. Are gentlemen prepared to place the citizen in this situation? Would the gentleman from Virginia who patronizes the bill, suffer the state of Virginia, that proud and honorable state, to come to the U. S. for its defence? Would he consent to wear the habitments of the general government to serve his own state? But perhaps it is not intended to apply to him or gentlemen of his standing; but to the poor. I hope the poor are as independent as the rich, and would contemn a bribe as much; but I would not put them in a situation to be contaminated.
Mr. H. objected to the bill because, imposing an obligation on the citizen, should the United States at any time hereafter choose to employ them in unworthy purposes, the demand might be irresistible from the implied obligation, and the militia might be constrained to perform service which otherwise they would revolt at.
There were he said already in the arsenals of the United States more arms than would ever be wanted for all the militia who would be called
ed into service at one time. This number was annually increased by 8 or 10,000 stands; and this session they had made an additional appropriation of 300,000 dollars. As far as respected arms then there would be no occasion for appropriation, or difficulty in case of war. It would be recollected he said, that even during our revolutionary war, when our arms were so few in number, there was much more difficulty in getting men than arms. If then there were surplus millions in the Treasury, they ought to be reserved to pay the militia for their services when called into action, and not expended on arms, when no occasion for them could be demonstrated.
The committee then obtained leave to sit again; and the House immediately resolved itself into committee on the bill.
Mr. Dawson. Since the commencement of the present session I have voted for every measure, either of defence, preparation, or precaution, which has been brought forward, except an increase of the military peace establishment, and the equipment of our frigates. I mean to pursue this policy—the embargo—gun boats—fortifications—the sale of arms to individual states, & the purchase of arms and artillery by the United States all received my approbation as did the bill for raising an additional military force, as a war establishment. Yes, sir, I voted for that bill in all the forms which it assumed, during the three or four months it was before this House—I would have voted for thirty-two thousand men; and I hesitate not to declare that I would now vote for that number, or a larger one if requisite.
In making this declaration I am not apprehensive of a charge of being friendly to standing armies, or unfriendly to republican institutions—these things affect me not—I make no declarations of my political principles except to those who have a right to demand them—I mean those I represent. Nor am I subject to a charge of inconsistency. In 1798 I voted against an increase of our military force, because, in my judgment the circumstances of our country did not require it—in 1806 I voted for the increase because circumstances did require it, and for that reason I am now in favor of a larger increase.
Sir, there are times and circumstances when it behoves a nation to call forth all its resources to meet impending danger, and to guard the threatened rights and liberties of the country—such, I believe to be our present situation, and such ought to be our conduct.
I was well pleased some time ago at the coincidence of sentiment which appeared in this House relative to our foreign relations; but I cannot please myself, as some gentlemen do, with the prospects of peace—for some months I have been persuaded that we shall have war, & that belief is confirmed by every information which we receive; it is under this belief that I am in favor of that bill, and for filling the blank with the largest sum proposed. I am in favor of that for considerations of a more permanent nature. I consider it as a subject of the first magnitude and ought to be adopted, whether we have peace or war. The arming of our militia has always been among my first wishes; I consider it as the surest guarantee of our rights and liberties, and I would have relinquished the bill for an additional number of troops, which I advocated, sooner than this bill. I also wish to see another plan, which one of my colleagues brought forward, carried into effect. I mean the classification of the militia, thereby rendered that body of men efficient.
I hope the blank will be filled with the largest sum.
The question having been put on filling the blank with the sum of one million of dollars, was negatived, Ayes 27.
Mr. Randolph hoped some gentleman would propose a sum with which with which it should be thought proper to fill the blank.
Mr. Bassett named 500,000 dollars.
Mr. Smilie said that if the militia were to be armed at the expense of the United States, and the arms to remain the property of the United States it would place the states in a very disagreeable situation; but he
thought that the United States should be enabled to commence the manufacture of arms. He wished either that the people might purchase the arms from the U. S. or that the state governments might purchase the arms and sell them to the people; for he believed they never would get any man to take proper care of arms which he did not himself purchase. It was not so extremely hard that every man should lay out 10 dollars to enable him to defend his country. Gentlemen should reflect. Mr. S. said, that however necessary it is that the people should be armed it is equally proper that the arms should be their own property. The history of the world, he said, would shew that the danger of republics was from within and not from without. The primary advantage resulting from the people's possessing their own arms, was, that they might take care to guard against ambitious characters who might rise in opposition to the liberties of the people. Their situation then when they held arms at the tenure of the United States would be more dangerous than if they were not armed at all; for in the one case relying on the arms in their possession, if deprived of them by the government at the moment they had occasion to use them against usurpers, they would fall an easy sacrifice; while on the other hand, if arms were not in their hands, they would take care to guard themselves, and at least preserve their independence. It had indeed been said that if the militia were once armed, they would never surrender their arms. Would any gentleman anxious for his country's existence as a nation, wish to see the contest which must ensue from such an insubordination to the general government? His idea was that the government should manufacture them, and they might then be sold to the several state governments. He thought they should be manufactured by the general government, in order to produce the uniformity of arms so desirable throughout the Union. He believed 200,000 dollars was as much as could be used before the next session; and no gentleman would say that the House would be less capable of judging of the proper amount of the appropriation then than at this time. He would mention one other objection to a large appropriation: whatever the state of the Treasury was now, every man must know that it would not be overflowing at the end of the year.
The question was then taken on filling the blank with 500,000 dollars and negatived 45 to 35.
The sum of 450,000 dollars having been mentioned—
Mr. Varnum (Speaker) said as the bill now stood he thought it violated a correct principle—that the people should hold the arms in such a manner that neither the general or state governments should take them from them. He was perfectly disposed to go as far as any gentleman to extend the manufacture of arms in our own country, provided those arms should be placed in such a situation that every individual citizen might purchase them at his own expence. The principle itself being objectionable he could vote for no appropriation; for the sum originally proposed was not sufficient to produce any susceptible effect, while it would nevertheless prevent states and individuals, who now have it in contemplation or have commenced the good work, from arming themselves.
Mr. Rowan was in favor of the principle of the bill, and did not apprehend the dangers from it, which some gentlemen did. When the people were disposed to be free they would not surrender their liberty because arms were given them by the general government; when they were disposed to be slaves, they would not retain it, although the arms they held were their own. While the people were vigilant, and took the trouble to think, they never would suffer from their own government. When any man failed to use arms because they were given to him, when his liberty was at stake, he would not have used them had he purchased them. The idea is too finely spun, said he; it is not to be expected that the nation should be completely armed but by the general government. I differ with gentlemen on another ground. So far as relates to the operation of internal regulations the people ought to know their state

rights; but in questions of general defence state limits ought to be forgotten: and the question of arming the people should be considered in a national point of view. The constitution has guaranteed to the states the maintenance of a republican form of government by the U. States. The general government should direct and control the use of arms; and their efficiency will not be less when derived from the general government, than if they were purchased individually by the people. These dangers so alarmingly depicted are a substitute for argument instead of the argument itself. I would have voted such a sum as should at once have armed the whole body, if the treasury had been in a situation to admit it. While the people are conscious of their rights you cannot injure them; when they are less than conscious the people cannot keep them free. I therefore think that arming the whole body of the militia would be the best preservative against danger.
Mr. Varnum said, although the gentleman last up conceived his ideas on this subject to be too finely spun, yet they were correct. Did the gentleman suppose that when an individual was called upon to give up the arms loaned to him by the U. S. that he would rebel? If gentlemen were disposed to sanction this idea, there was an end to all law. No, said Mr. V. your laws when made should be executed; for they ought to be such as the good sense of the people of the U. S. will accord in.
Mr. Rowan's idea was, that the individual was either to receive these arms as his own exclusive property; or that they were to be dispersed throughout the U. S. in arsenals.
Mr. Holland was perfectly willing to procure arms, if more were necessary in our arsenals; but no gentleman had shown that they were wanting. But giving arms to the people was an absurdity; for it was inconsistent with the principles of freemen to receive gifts. If given to be restored when the government called for them, when that call was made no honest man could refuse to surrender them, because they were not his own property; and this would place the people in a situation to become slaves. Mr. H. said that the people of this nation had too high a sense of freedom to be bought by these indirect means.
Mr. Lloyd rebutted the objections made to the bill on the score of its making no provision for the distribution of the arms. The principle was the main object, and the detail could be settled after the arms were procured. But gentlemen had complained that the friends of the bill had not shown the necessity for arms. He asked gentlemen if they would acknowledge that there was a necessity for a militia? If so, for what purpose? Not to stand in the ranks once a month equipped with corn stalks or crab sticks, but to fight when their country stood in need. Gentlemen must admit, he said, that militia were not necessary, or they must admit that it was necessary that they should be armed. Suppose a sufficient number of men were now to be called out to use all the arms in the possession of the U. S. what would become of those points where there were no arms. It must be acknowledged, from a view of the country that arms were necessary at every point.
Gentlemen have said, observed Mr. L. a freeman will not esteem a musket given to him as much as if he had bought it himself. By that argument, because we do not owe our liberty to our own exertions, but received it from our ancestors, we must therefore esteem it the less. This argument by the way he said was rather in contradiction to one used by the same gentleman (Mr. Holland) that the persons to whom arms are given would feel so extremely grateful for them, that they would be induced to act as they otherwise would not.
Mr. Masters went at some length into an examination of the conduct of France who had desolated all the countries to which she had turned her attention; it was therefore time to arm the whole body of the militia against the designs of France; for, if we do not resist, said he, this is an undone and ruined country.
Mr. Findley made objections to the structure of the bill, and the whole conduct of the business; for the bill was accompanied by no history or report, as was generally expected by a committee. He could not vote for the bill declaring in its title an intention to arm the whole body of the militia, which could never be accomplished, being but a visionary scheme.
Mr. Blackledge said he was certainly in favor of the principle of the bill; he would have voted for the whole sum proposed, but for the present situation of our finances. View the appropriations already and with great propriety made this session, said he; if we run into war we are not even now in a situation to bear it without heavy loans. In voting for this bill I do it to recognise the principle that the general government is to arm the militia. We have sufficient now in
our possession to repel and conquer any enemy, whilst enough may be left to repel any predatory attack. Therefore I do not wish to make a heavy appropriation. We have already appropriated 450,000 dollars for the purpose of procuring arms this year; which will necessarily diminish the sum now to be appropriated. I will here just observe that I do not believe that we are doing a favor to the people of the U. S. by arming them; for I know not how their own money could be applied to a better purpose than by enabling them to defend themselves against any nation whatever.
Mr. Bibb expressed himself in favor of the sum of 500,000 dollars; not that it could be all expended the present year; but because by appropriating so large a sum it would be in their power to expend a larger sum the ensuing year, because the inducement to arduous to embark in such an undertaking would be greater.
Mr. Rhea said he was willing to appropriate the money if he could see a provision introduced for distributing the arms. They ought to pass from the U. S. to each state respectively, according to the number of their effective militia, and be disposed of under such rules and regulations as the respective states should direct. He moved that the committee rise for the purpose of introducing such an amendment into the bill.
Mr. Randolph said this was certainly the first time he had ever heard of a motion for a committee to rise in order to amend a bill; he had heard of going into but never out of a committee of the whole to amend a bill. This is an unfortunate bill, said Mr. R. When the subject was before the select committee, gentlemen would not permit us to report any provision on the subject of distribution. Had I been gratified in my own course I should have introduced a different bill from the present; but now I am unwilling to have the bill modified, even in the way in which I should have originally preferred it; because in this late period of the session the discussion which such amendments would assuredly lead to would defeat the bill; and in this, as in the case of the contract bill, I am content rather to have a bill which I do not like so well, but which establishes a valuable principle beyond contradiction, than a bill which acknowledges no principle, and that perhaps postponed till the 30th of December next. An amendment of this kind, such is the contrariety of opinion on this subject, might give rise to a discussion which would last out the whole session. Some gentlemen are of opinion that the arms should be given gratuitously, if indeed that can be said to be gratuitously given which was purchased with their own money; some are for selling them; some for keeping them in arsenals; some (of whom I am one) are for giving them to the governments of the respective states in trust for the militia. But the mode of arrangement need not be decided before the arms are procured: I hope we shall go on and pass the bill. I hope we shall pledge the faith of this government for arming the militia as much as it is now pledged for the payment of the public debt.
The question being taken on the committee's rising, was negatived—Ayes 12.
Mr. Blount was in favor of the object of the bill. Gentlemen in opposing it had given as a reason for voting against it the arms now in possession of the militia. To shew the fallacy of the reliance on that, he took up the return, in which there is stated as being in the hands of the militia of North Carolina, 23,000 muskets. His knowledge of the state enabled him to say with boldness that there were not a fourth of that number; and the return itself shewed it, for there was not a single bayonet returned to all these "muskets." There were not enough in the state he was convinced to arm the states' quota of 7003 men, their proportion of the 100,000 to be raised.
The question was then taken on the sum of 450,000 and negatived 39 to 46. The sum of 400,000 was negatived 46 to 37.
The sum of 300,000 was negatived 47 to 41.
The sum of 200,000 was agreed to, 46 to 36.
Mr. Rhea proposed an amendment to the bill for transmitting the arms to the state governments respectively in proportion to their effective numbers of militia, and by them to be distributed among the militia.
Mr. Barwell suggested the propriety of distributing the arms according to the representation from each state instead of the number of militia; the returns being so defective, it would be difficult to ascertain the proportion.
Mr. Randolph said this amendment taken in connection with the bill as it now stood reminded him of the clause in the will of the pious licentiate, who, as a recompense for his patient attendance on him, left Gil Blas all his
library and all his manuscripts. All the arms which 200,000 dollars could purchase—all this mighty quantity were to be distributed among all the states and all the territories. He considered the bill efficiently destroyed by the vote to fill the blank with 200,000 dollars. It was proposed to arm the whole body of the militia of the United States with a sum incompetent to keep pace with the annual increase of the militia; and the militia would be just as far from being armed in twenty years after the passage of the bill as they were now. Twenty thousand stand a year would hardly make up for the wear and tear. But supposing the necessity of an amendment similar to that proposed, he thought the condition an improper one. He thought the arms should first be distributed among those states the militia of which were most disarmed.
He hoped the gentleman from Tennessee would not press his amendment, for he considered the bill really defunct; and he knew not but the best way would be to put the bill to sleep and revive it at a future period.
Mr. Lyon said if the arms were to be got he could see no necessity for distributing them in this way; he thought they should be distributed first to those who stood in need of them. If the amendment were adopted in any shape, he should have for his district, comprising somewhat less than 100,000 souls, seventy guns!
Mr. Rhea said that all the objections which had been urged went to the amount appropriated, and not to the amendment.
Mr. Holland said the desires of the gentleman from Virginia and Kentucky were like some other principles, which sounded well, were calculated to catch the ear, but could have no stability. Would it be justice, he asked, to give arms to those states who had been too negligent to procure arms, in preference to those which had rigidly performed their duty? He thought not.
The amendment was adopted 43 to 37.
The committee then rose and reported the bill, which was ordered to a third reading, by Yeas and Nays.
On the subsequent day it was read the third time and passed by Yeas and Nays as follows:
YEAS.—Messrs. L. J. Alston, W. Alston, Basset, Blackledge, Blount, Boyd, Butler, Calhoun, J. Campbell, Clopton, Culpiper, Dawson, Deshler, Eppes, Goldsborough, Goodwyn, Heister, Hoge, Holmes, Jackson, Johnson, Key, Lambert, Lewis, Love, Lyon, Macon, Marion, M'Creery, Daniel Montgomery, John Montgomery, T. Moore, Jer. Morrow, John Morrow, Newton, Nicholas, Rhea, M. Richards, Riker, Roan, Russel, Smelt, Smilie, S. Smith, J. Smith, Southard, Stanford, Taylor, Van Horn, Verplanck, Wharton, D. R. Williams, Wilson, Witherell.—54.
NAYS.—Messrs. Bacon, Bard, Blake, Brown, Cutts, Dana, Davenport, Dean, Ely, Findley, Fisk, Gardner, Green, Harris, Holland, Humphreys, Isley, Milnor, N. R. Moore, Newbold, Pitken, Pugh, Quincy, Sloan, J. K. Smith, Storer, Sturges, Taggart, Talmadge, Thompson, Van Rensselaer, Whitehill, Wilbour.—33.
THE RT. HON. CHARLES J. FOX'S HISTORICAL WORKS.
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JOHN BOND. St. Mary's county, August 24—3tw.
LATEST FROM EUROPE.
By the ship Otis , Captain Leeds, arrived at Philadelphia from Liverpool.
FROM THE DUTCH PAPERS.
PROCLAMATION.
Don Joseph, by the Grace of God, of Spain, Majorca, Minorca, Gibraltar, of the Continent of America, the Islands, &c. &c. &c. King, &c. &c.
To the Vice-Roys, Captain General, Governors, Corregidores, and to all other officers, civil and military, of whatever denomination; and to all the inhabitants of the Spanish dominions in the West and East Indies, maketh known, that,
By virtue of the treaties of the 5th and 10th of May last, by which King Charles IV. and the Princes of his House have formally relinquished all right and title to the crown of Spain, and all the dominions belonging to it, in favor of my dear and august brother, Napoleon the First, Emperor of the French, King of Italy, &c. who hath been graciously pleased to confer the same upon me, on the 4th of the present month, my wishes and my ambition have been to come to Spain, to take upon me the government of the country—to devote myself to the happiness and interest of the people whom Providence has committed to my charge—and to carry into effect the regulations which shall be made by the Junta of the Representatives and Notables of the kingdom; which Junta is assembled at Bayonne, and will be again called together at that place on the 16th inst. in order to take into consideration the means of establishing a just and permanent government, and of placing Spain, with all her extensive dominions, on a better footing, by securing her independence, and raising her in that rank in the scale of nations which formerly distinguished her, and which her inhabitants are still worthy to possess.
To accomplish this object I have accepted the crown. I hasten to make this declaration of my paternal solicitude for your happiness, and to assure you that it shall be exerted equally for the good of the remotest parts of my dominions.—Confiding in my royal word, you shall continue to enjoy all your privileges as good subjects. Prosecute your ordinary avocations in peace. Be obedient to your superiors, and guard against the machinations of those who set the laws at defiance. Justice must be administered impartially, and I strictly enjoin all judges and magistrates to comply with my pleasure on this subject. Look up to me as your protector: I shall ever have your interest at heart, and will double my endeavors to defend you from the attack which the implacable enemies of Spain meditate against you.
I enjoin all Archbishops, Bishops, and Ministers of Religion, which I pledge myself to maintain inviolate, to use their influence among the people to make them obedient to the laws, and to guard them against the dangerous consequences of sedition and treason.—I repeat my declaration, that my government shall be founded on justice, and my sole object be the accomplishment of your happiness.
All Governors, Judges, &c. are commanded to give the utmost publicity to this proclamation.
I, THE KING.
Given at Bayonne, June 11, 1808. By order of the King our most gracious sovereign.
M. JOS. DAZANZA.
LONDON, JULY 4.
HIS MAJESTY'S SPEECH.
Parliament was this afternoon prorogued with the following most gracious speech from the throne, by commission:
"My Lords and Gentlemen,
"We have it in command from his Majesty to express to you the great satisfaction which he derives from being enabled, by putting an end to the present session of Parliament, to terminate the laborious attendance which the public business has required of you.
"The measures which you have adopted for the improvement of the military force of the country, promises to lay the foundation of a system of internal defence eminently useful and peculiarly adapted to the exigencies of these times.
"The sanction which you have given to those measures of defensive retaliation, to which the violent attacks of the enemy upon the commerce and resources of this kingdom, compelled his Majesty to resort, has been highly satisfactory to his Majesty.
"His Majesty doubts not that, in the result, the enemy will be convinced of the impolicy of persevering in the system which retorts upon himself, in so much greater proportion, those evils which he endeavors to inflict upon this country.
"Gentlemen of the House of Commons, "We are commanded by his Majesty to return his most hearty acknowledgments for the cheerfulness and liberality with which the necessary
supplies for the current year have been provided.
"His Majesty directs us to assure you that he participates in the satisfaction with which you must have contemplated the flourishing situation of the revenue and credit of the country, notwithstanding the continued pressure of the war: and he congratulates you upon having been enabled to provide for the exigencies of the public service, with so small an addition to the public burdens.
"His Majesty commands us to thank you for having enabled him to make good his engagements with his allies; and to express to you the particular gratification which he has derived from the manner in which you have provided for the establishment of his sister, her royal highness the Duchess of Brunswick.
"My Lords and Gentlemen,
"His Majesty has great satisfaction in informing you, that notwithstanding the formidable confederacy, united against his ally the king of Sweden, that sovereign perseveres, with unabated vigor and constancy, to maintain the honor and independence of his crown, and that no effort has been wanting on the part of his Majesty to support him in the arduous contest in which he is engaged.
"The recent transactions, in Spain and Italy have exhibited new and striking proofs of the unbounded and unprincipled ambition which actuates the common enemy of every established and independent nation in the world.
"His Majesty views with the liveliest interest the loyal and determined spirit manifested by the Spanish nation, in resisting the violence and perfidy with which their dearest rights have been assailed.
"The Spanish nation thus nobly struggling against the tyranny and usurpation of France, can no longer be considered as the enemy of Great Britain, but is recognised by his Majesty as a natural friend and ally.
"We are commanded to inform you, that his Majesty has received communications from several of the provinces of Spain, soliciting the aid of his Majesty. The answer of his Majesty to these communications has been received in Spain with every demonstration of those sentiments of confidence and affection, which are congenial to the feelings and true interests of both nations: and his Majesty commands us to assure you, that he will continue to make every exertion in his power for the support of the Spanish cause; guided in the choice and in the direction of his exertions by the wishes of those in whose behalf they are employed.
"In contributing to the success of this great and glorious cause, his Majesty has no other object than that of preserving unimpaired the power and independence of the Spanish monarchy. But he trusts that the same efforts which are directed to that great object may, under the blessings of Divine Providence, lead in their effects and by their example, to the restoration of the liberties and peace of Europe."
JULY 5.
A Gottenburgh mail arrived this morning, with letters and papers to the 28th. Sir John Moore has not returned from Stockholm, but he was hourly expected, relays of horses having been provided for his use. We hope that this is the last time we shall have to repeat that the expedition still remained in Gottenburgh roads. Orders were received for the officers to repair immediately on board their respective ships; and although their destination was not known, it was understood that it was finally settled. Private letters state, that Sir John Moore was engaged at Stockholm in a negotiation with the Russian court, in concert with the king of Sweden, in which event, if he has succeeded, the expedition will return home, as it is to be presumed that Denmark would be comprehended in the treaty. This, indeed, would be a most happy result, particularly at a moment when Spain stands in need of all the assistance we can afford. The report of a negotiation between Russia and this country, is so strongly credited in the city, as to produce a considerable depreciation in all articles of Russian produce. Hemp fell yesterday no less than 10/ a ton, and tallow and linseed oil in proportion.
PEACE WITH SPAIN.
JULY 6. The Gazette of last night contains the following important proclamation:
At the Court at the Queen's Palace, the 4th of July, 1808.
Present, the King's most excellent Majesty in Council.
His majesty having taken into consideration the glorious exertions of the Spanish nation for the deliverance of their country from the tyranny and usurpation of France, and the assurances which his majesty has received, from several of the provinces of Spain, of their friendly disposition towards this kingdom; his majesty is pleased, by and with the advice of his privy council to order, and it is hereby ordered:

First—That all hostilities against Spain on the part of his majesty, shall immediately cease.
Secondly—That the blockade of all the ports of Spain, except such as may be still in the possession or under the control of France, shall be forthwith raised.
Thirdly—That all ships and vessels belonging to Spain shall have free admission into the ports of his majesty's dominions as before the present hostilities.
Fourthly—That all ships and vessels belonging to Spain which shall be met at sea by his majesty's ships and cruisers, shall be treated in the same manner as the ships of other states in amity with his majesty, and shall be suffered to carry on any trade now considered by his majesty to be lawfully carried on by neutral ships.
Fifthly—That all vessels and goods belonging to persons residing in the Spanish colonies, which shall be detained by any of his majesty's cruisers, after the date hereof, shall be brought into port, and shall be carefully preserved in safe custody, to await his majesty's further pleasure, until it shall be known whether the said colonies or any of them, in which the owners of such ships and goods reside, shall have made common cause with Spain against the power of France.
And the right hon. the lords commissioners of his majesty's treasury, his majesty's principal secretaries of state, the lords commissioners of the admiralty, the judges of the courts of vice admiralty, are to take such measures herein as to them may respectively appertain.
STEPHEN COTTRELL.
Important Spanish document.
[TRANSLATION.]
PROCLAMATION OF PEACE.
WITH
ENGLAND AND SWEDEN HER ALLY.
Published at Oviedo, June 20, 1808. Ferdinand the 7th, King of Spain and in his royal name:
The supreme Junta of this principality declares a general peace with England, and at the same time the closest alliance with that nation, which has with the greatest generosity offered all the succor and assistance that may have been asked of her. They also declare peace with Sweden, and order that all our ports should be open to the vessels of both nations, and that this royal resolution be communicated to all the justices of this principality.
MADRID, JUNE 10.
The nomination of King Joseph to fill the Spanish throne has been announced to the public, in the following preliminary article:
"His imperial and royal majesty having complied with the desire expressed by the Junta of the government, the council of Castile, the city of Madrid, and various civil and military bodies, in the State, that he would choose his illustrious brother Joseph Napoleon, the king of Naples, to be king of Spain; information has been given of this to his majesty king Joseph, who has arrived at Bayonne. His highness the lieutenant general of the kingdom, having given the requisite orders concerning the journey of our Monarch into the capital, we have reason to believe that we shall soon enjoy the presence of his majesty."
JUNE 14.
The tidings of the happy renovation which our monarchy is about to undergo have been forwarded to the American colonies, with so much celerity, and by so many different ways, that we are sure of their arriving, even at the remotest distance, before the English will have had time to sow the seeds of discord. Besides, the Spaniards in America are so much on their guard against the English, that the reports they may spread will be credited by no one.
All Spaniards of discernment are convinced that the American colonies, in the change of dynasty which has taken place, will find reasonable grounds of hope for the future; and those great events will but attach them more and more to their mother country. As strongly as religion, language, manners, and interest, attach the colonies to Spain, so strongly do all these considerations detach them from England.
At Mexico, Lima, and Buenos Ayres, nothing more is desired than to be united to Spain; but at the same time the colonies require to be governed with more justice and wisdom than at present. It is required that the career of military glory and mercantile industry be opened to the Spaniards of America. The new dynasty has begun its government, by expressing their good will towards the colonies; the deputies are members of the general Junta; they cannot but profit by the changes which have taken place. We may soon hope that the extensive kingdoms of Mexico and Peru, instead of presenting to the English a coast almost neutral, or contributing very inconsiderably to the
war, will henceforth oppose a formidable band of hostile warriors, ready to resist them on every part of their shores.
New-York, Aug. 20.
LATE FROM GIBRALTAR.
By the ship Ocean, Captain Dodge, 42 days from Gibraltar, the Editors of the N. York Gazette have received Gibraltar papers to the 3d of July.
In addition to the interesting details of affairs relative to Spain (which we have given at length in this day's paper) the passengers in the Ocean inform that an order from the Supreme Council at Seville had been issued, to liberate all American vessels that had been detained in the ports of Spain under Bonaparte's decrees—and that the ships Betsey and Howard, of this port, seized at Cadiz, under those decrees, had been released. That the English troops under the command of General Spencer commenced landing at Port St. Mary's near Cadiz, on the 1st of July. They confirm the accounts that Portugal had risen to repel the Usurper—Oporto was in possession of the Patriots; and an embargo had been laid in Portuguese ports. All the accounts are favorable to the Spanish Patriots. Gen. Dupont is stated to be surrounded at Cordova by Gen. Castano.
The Ocean sailed the 5th July.
By the same arrival, we learn, that Mr. Young, Consul General at Madrid, who left that place about the 5th of May, with dispatches from Mr. Irving, for the American government, was stopped at a small port town, a short distance from Madrid, in consequence of an order from the Supreme Council of Seville, directing all persons with dispatches, to be stopped and sent to Seville. Mr. Y. was consequently sent to Seville, where he was lodged in prison, and all his papers, baggage, &c. taken from him. This was done in consequence of finding among his dispatches, some from the Duke of Berg, to the French consul at Philadelphia, under blank cover to the Secretary of State; in which were others destined for S. America. After he was detained in prison for 15 days, a passport was granted him from the Council to leave Spain, and to proceed for any port to embark for America. With this he left Seville, and arrived safe at Gibraltar. Directly after his arrival at that place, a letter was received from Lord Collingwood, ordering Mr. Y. to be detained, or to be taken out of any vessel in which he might be found. This order was given by the request of the Council of Seville. Sir H. Dalrymple, the Governor of Gibraltar, did not, however, conceive himself authorised to enforce the order; but permitted Mr. Y. to proceed where he pleased. Mr. Y. however, was given to understand, that he would probably be taken out of any vessel in which he should take passage for America by a Spanish gun boat. In consequence of this information, Mr. Y. gave up the idea of going to America with his dispatches although he had previously chartered the Ocean for that purpose, and immediately took his passage for England on board the Proviant store ship, which vessel sailed on the same day with the Ocean.
[Here follows an edict of the Junta at Seville of June 7th, enjoining on all Frenchmen wishing to enjoy the protection of the Spanish flag to take the oath of allegiance to Spain; otherwise their property to be sequestered. All French property is sequestered.]
[The next article is a detailed account of the bombardment of the French frigates at Cadiz, and their surrender as heretofore announced.]
MORA, (Portugal) JUNE 16.
Positive intelligence has been received from Lisbon, that almost all the French troops are moving to different points, and that the remainder, with General Junot are fortifying themselves in St. George's Castle, where they have collected provisions and ammunition. Whatever was in the arsenals, they have removed to the forts; and it is even added, that they intend to enter in articles of capitulation with the nation. The few troops which were in Evora, fled off towards Beyra, and were very near being attacked by the people, in consequence of the threats of the French commander, who was under the necessity of departing without the subsidies which he had demanded. We are informed, that, in Beja, all the inhabitants are up in arms, only waiting for the signal to attack, and for somebody to head them.
SEVILLE, JUNE 18.
We learn, by several official papers, that the Grand Duke of Berg has, at the request of the Board of Government at Madrid, suspended the march of the French troops to the Provinces which have proclaimed Ferdinand VII.
D. Manuel Barnuevo, Lieutenant of the Pavia Dragoons, who left Ma-
dris on the 8th inst. and joined our army on the 15th has communicated the following particulars.
The French garrison in Madrid does not amount to 3000 men. The Duke of Berg continued in the Monclova, whence he intended to remove to the Retiro, as soon as it should be fortified. Moncey's division, consisting of 4 or 5000 men, had marched out of Madrid, making inquiries respecting the roads which lead to several Provinces, so that its destination is not known. The division formerly quartered in the Escurial, which had proceeded against Segovia, & was 6000 strong, was beaten by the Segovians, on the 8th, with a loss of 3000 men.
At Manzanares there were 800 French men, who, having set out upon their march to Dupont's army, were attacked, in Valdel-penas, by the inhabitants. After an action which lasted two hours and in which they lost 150 men, and destroyed almost all the houses, they withdrew to Manzanares where they have since been captured.
The Puerto del Rey is guarded by about 3,000 men, and 2 pieces of ordnance are conducting to that point.
FRESH PAPERS RECEIVED FROM SPAIN.
Edict published in the Isle of Majorca,
D. FERDINAND VII King of Spain, & adjacent Islands, &c. &c.
And in his royal name, his excellency the captain-general of the army & kingdom, &c.
[Here follows a decree organizing a board of government in the Island.]
The Supreme Board has sent me the following letter.
Most Serene Sir; D. Dionisio Capaz member of this Board, and an ensign in the navy, accompanied by the Portuguese Captain, D. Sebastian Martinez, is going, in the name of this board, to inform Y. M. S. H. of the occurrences which have lately taken place; and, as they are thought most important, it has been deemed requisite that he should give you a verbal account of the same, that you may take the resolutions, and send us the assistance which we stand in need of. May God, &c.
(Signed)
THE MARQUIS DE CARRION.
Ayamonte, June 20, 1808.
The purport of this verbal information is, that the French have been driven from the forts on the right bank of the Guadiana, opposite to Ayamonte; the inhabitants of the left, assisted by the few regulars who were there, and a handful of armed Portuguese, having beaten the French troops by which they were garrisoned, and hoisted the Spanish flag in every one of them. The loss of the enemy amounts to 91 prisoners, and a number of killed. The whole of the kingdom of Algarva is in a state of insurrection; Villa Real and Castro-marin, as well as the batteries of the Carresquera and S. Anton, have been taken possession of; the Rebel Mallet has been handcuffed, and let down into a dry well, with 26 other individuals; the remainder of the French troops have fled to the mountains; Tavira, Faro, and Alillon are up in arms; and the military chests of the French have been seized. The few Spanish troops aboved mentioned, consisted of Catalonians, Provincials, and a small number of Murcians.
A Portuguese Captain is come to inform the Board, that Algarva and the whole kingdom wish to be under its protection in the name of Ferdinand VII.
[Here follows a proclamation in the name of Ferdinand the 7th, for regulating the draughts of the militia, &c. throughout the provinces acknowledging him.]
ORDER OF THE DAY—June 22.
SOLDIERS! The light troops of our Van, have given a proof of their intrepid patriotism. They reached Cordova by forced marches, and, at that very moment, it became necessary to dislodge the enemy from several points. The commandant of the Van, considering, that the troops must be tired after such exertions in this hot weather, desired 50 men per battalion, from among those who should find themselves less exhausted, and better able to endure fatigue, to come out of the ranks, of their own accord; when they all, without exception, contended which should go first; and the Superior Officers were obliged to form the detachment!
Soldiers! This gallant conduct ought to excite your emulation; and I who see the martial spirit with which you long to come within sight of the enemy, flatter myself, that you will vie with your worthy companions in this patriotic heroism. You shall soon see and conquer the enemy.
(Signed)
CASTANOS.
WASHINGTON CITY.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24.
SPAIN.—From the news via Gibraltar it would appear that the Junta or council of Seville are actually in possession of several provinces and islands. This it will be observed is the English account.
From the article under the head of Madrid it will be seen that the disturbances are considered as temporary.
Time only will discover which is correct. Meanwhile sufficient has appeared to disprove many of the circumstances stated as facts by reports and statements via Havana and Norfolk, under date of 19th June, received some weeks ago.
Could we but imagine for a moment that the Spanish nation could re-assume a place as an independent people, which character it has long forfeited, how heartily should we wish them success! But for what do they fight? Nominally, for a monarch who has disclaimed them, who has resigned his birthright, and is personally under the control of the French emperor; for a bauble which the person for whom they design it has refused. Is there a probability of their success? Reason excludes even the hope of their regaining their independence. In reality, then, they are fighting the battles of England for that phantom the balance of power. We cannot but look forward with painful anticipation to the result.
Our readers will observe the language of approbation put into the mouth of his majesty by his ministers on the subject of the orders in council. It is somewhat surprising however that the British government should persist in silencing that system of interdiction retaliatory, of which they were the original inventors.
INSANITY.
QUEM DEUS VULT PERDERE PRIUS DEMENTAT.
The following instance is selected from amongst a number in the North-American. Charity bids us to place this under the head of insanity:—
"The belief that Messrs. Jefferson and Madison are really naturalized as French citizens, gains ground."
It affords us much gratification to state, that authentic accounts from the western parts of this commonwealth, all concur in the union of sentiment, on the republican candidates—for J. Madison, President, G. Clinton, Vice-President, and S. Snyder, Governor—that the vote will be concurrent, and we make not the least doubt more mighty in numbers and effect, than on any former occasion in Pennsylvania—indeed the state of the union, in relation to the world at large, has awakened American feelings to the very general extinction of foreign influence.—Aurora.
The Tigre, from this port, on board of which Yrujo sailed, has by accident, found her way into Portsmouth, England, in 21 days.—Burr arrived two days after!—Aurora.
New-York, August 20.
Extract of a letter from Cadiz, dated June 27.
"We are in hourly expectation of hearing of the surrender of General Dupont and his army consisting of nearly 9,000 men, within three leagues of Cordova, and 250 miles from Cadiz. This is a division of French troops that were on their march to Seville when the revolution commenced, detached by the duke of Berg from the Grand Army, consisting of about 70,000 men, in the vicinity of Madrid. There are now only 3,000 men in the vicinity of the metropolis; the residue of this large army were detached to take possession of different parts of the country, and were marching with the utmost confidence when the revolution commenced. Dupont must inevitably surrender, as he is hemmed in on all sides by an army much superior to his own, and without hope of relief. The French army that originally arrived in this country consisted of about 90,000 men, and were in possession of many principal towns. From the immense territory over which they are scattered, without being able to form a junction in season and make good their retreat, and from the energy with which the Spaniards have acted, there is no doubt but the major part of this immense army will eventually fall into the hands of the Spaniards."
Although the Grand Council of Seville has directed that American vessels shall be liberated, yet it will only prove advantageous to those who are sufficiently fortunate to escape the British cruisers in their passage to the United States. If taken, they will be liable to condemnation on the plea of having been in a French port.—Orac.
POSTSCRIPT.
By the ship Isabella, arrived at Boston from Liverpool, London dates to the 9th July have been received, three days later than the news in this day's paper.
They contain a decree of Bonaparte dissolving the Papal government, and adding its territories to the kingdom of Italy.
Notwithstanding the rumors of negotiations between G. Britain and the northern powers, hostilities between Russia and Sweden, the ally of Britain, still continued.
The forces to be sent from England to the aid of the Spanish resisting the French, are said to amount to 40,000 men; together with money, provisions, ammunition, &c.
It is reported that our Ambassador at London had said he expected a speedy settlement between Great Britain and America. Other circumstance however forbid a sanguine expectation of this event.
Dispatches of importance are said to have been received at Boston from our minister at London.
MARRIED, last evening, by the Rev. Mr. Batch, Mr. EZEEIEL M'DANIEL to Miss ANN MOORE, both of the city.
Treasurer's Office.
August 24, 1808.
THE owners of property in the city of Washington, who are indebted to the Corporation of the said city, for TAXES on their Real & Personal Property, are hereby notified, that the subscriber will attend at his Office near the Theatre, every day, (Sunday excepted) from 10 o'clock in the forenoon, till 2 o'clock in the afternoon, for the purpose of receiving the same; and that on failing to make payment on or before the 24th day of September next, the taxes will be collected by distress or sale as the law directs.
HENRY WHETCROFT,
Treasurer of Washington city.
August 24—3t
NOTICE.
THE Partnership heretofore subsisting between the subscribers, under the firm of Philip Hines & William Defields is this day dissolved by mutual consent. All persons indebted to the said late firm, are requested to pay their respective accounts to P. Hines, and those that have demands against the said late firm are desired to call for payment on the said P. Hines, he being authorised to settle all the concerns of the said late partnership.
PHILIP HINES.
WILLIAM DEFIELDS.
Washington city, August 24—3t
PORT-TOBACCO JOCKEY CLUB RACES.
WILL be run for, over the Port-Tobacco Jockey Club Course, on the second Tuesday in October next, a PURSE of three hundred and sixty dollars, four miles and repeat, free for any horse, mare, or gelding, and on the second day a PURSE of two hundred dollars, two miles and repeat, the winning horse of the first days race only excepted. Weights agreeable to the rules of the club; and on the third day a handsome Saddle, Bridle, and Martingale, value Fifty dollars, one mile and repeat, by saddle horses.
All horses must be entered with the Secretary on the evening previous to their running.
WM. D. HARRISON, Sec.
August 24—
NOTICE.
THE uncertain state of my health, rendering it doubtful, whether I shall be able to do justice to my Clients; I am compelled, (after having finished what business is on hand) to decline the practice of the Law. I shall, however, be always ready to give an opinion, to any person who may chuse to consult with me.
If any gentleman commencing the practice, should be desirous to possess himself of a valuable
PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY.
He may be accommodated by applying to me. It consists of several hundred volumes of Reporters and books of Practice. The Elementary books in my possession, I shall not dispose of.
HENRY HIORT.
Capital Hill, August 24—3t
District of Columbia Washington county, to wit.
ON the petition of BENJAMIN FINNICUM an insolvent debtor confined in the prison of Washington county for debt—Notice is her by given to the creditors of the said Benjamin Finnicum that on Monday the 29th day of August instant at Lindsay's Hotel, in the city of Washington at the hour of 9 o'clock A. M. the oath prescribed by the act of Congress, entitled, "An act for the relief of insolvent debtors within the district of Columbia," will be administered to the said Benjamin Finnicum and a trustee appointed, unless cause be then and there shown to the contrary.
It is ordered that this notice be published in the National Intelligencer, and Washington Federalist, twice in each paper before said day.
By order of the honorable William Cranch, esq. chief judge of the circuit court of the district of Columbia.
ROBERT BRENT, CL.
August 24—2t

THE COMMERCIAL COMPANY OF WASHINGTON, Have just received by the ship CHANCELLOR , from New York, now discharging at Barry's Wharf—
London Port. Madeira, } WINE , in Marsala, and } pipes & quar- Catalonia, } ter casks. Ht. Brion, and } CLARET in cases, Bordeaux, } Cognac, and } BRANDY in pipes. Bordeaux, } Muscavado Sugar, in bds. and bbls. Molasses, Coffee, the best green in bags, Limes, Imperial } TEA Hyson, and } of the latest Young Hyson } importation. Loaf Sugar, Corks, in bags, Candles, and A few crates of STONE JUGS, PIT-CHERS, &c. &c.
These goods were bought with Cash, & will be sold for a small profit, for approved notes at 60 and 90 days. Particular dealers may expect from the Company a constant supply. The highest price will be given in cash for Country Produce of every kind, delivered at their Warehouse. JOSEPH FORREST, Pr. August 5—tf
FOR SALE OR RENT, THE Hotel at present occupied by P. D. STELLE . The advantages of this situation are so well known, that it is useless to say more of it—it is convenient to the Capitol, is calculated for a large establishment, with stabling for 40 or 50 horses. The Bridge, rapidly progressing over the Potomac, with the turnpike road to Alexandria, also in great forwardness, will add to the many advantages this situation possesses. To a man qualified to carry on such an establishment, no situation can insure a more certain and rapid fortune. Occupation can be had any day before the first of October next. Apply to the subscriber. DANL. CARROLL , of Duval's Washington, August 3—eptO
NOTICE. PURSUANT to an act of the General Assembly of Maryland, passed at November session, 1806, entitled "An act authorizing the collection of certain ground rents due on lots in the Town of Cumberland, in Allegany county," and a supplement thereto, passed at November session, 1807, Public Notice is hereby given to all persons holding unimproved lots in said town, on which ground rents are now due, that unless the said rents are paid on or before the first day of December next, the said lots will on that day be offered at public sale to the highest bidder, on a credit of 60 days. The sale to be held at Mr. J. Rine's tavern in said town, to commence at ten o'clock, A. M., and continue from day to day, until the whole are sold. THOMAS BEALL , of Saml. March 21—eptO
WANTED AT the Woodyard for the ensuing year a Manager, to take charge of the whole estate. He must be a sober, diligent, and discreet man—well acquainted with the culture of wheat, corn and tobacco, and the management of negroes. To such a man who can produce unquestionable testimonials of his capacity, sobriety and fidelity, high wages will be given. A person not connected in the neighborhood will be preferred. Apply to RD. W. WEST , Woodyard. N. B. Application must be made before the 1st. Sept. next. May 13—eptS
By the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS it appears to the Executive by an inquisition held in the county of Northumberland, on the 21st day of September, in the year 1806, before John H. Falin, esq. coroner for the said county, that on the 2nd day of the said month of September, in the year aforesaid, a certain GEORGE GORDON , late of the county aforesaid, stands charged with the murder of a certain negro slave, named Bartley ; and it appearing that after the perpetration of the said murder, the said George Gordon did immediately, and doth still fly from justice: I have therefore thought fit, with the advice of the Council of State, to issue this proclamation, hereby offering a reward of ONE HUNDRED dollars to any person or persons who shall apprehend and convey before some justice of the peace for the said county of Northumberland, the said George Gordon , that he may be dealt with as the law directs. And I do moreover hereby enjoin all officers civil and military, and exhort the good people of the commonwealth, to use their best endeavors to apprehend and convey as aforesaid, the said George Gordon , that he may be dealt with in such manner as the law in such cases prescribes. Given under my hand, with the seal of the Commonwealth annexed, at L. s. Richmond , this 5th day of August, 1808.
Signed WM. H. CABELL . The George Gordon is about five feet eight or ten inches high, is stout made, has light colored hair, blue eyes and a droll look when spoken to. It is believed that he is frequently lurking in the county of St. Mary's, Maryland. August 15—2w
20 DOLLARS REWARD. ESCAPED from the subscriber on the road leading from George Town towards Leesburg, about 15 miles from the former place, a negro man named LUKE , about 35 years of age, 6 feet high, dark skin, two of his upper fore teeth are out; he has a down cast look, and generally speaks in a low voice; his clothes and name he will probably change, I purchased him of Mr. Theophilus Hughs to take to my residence in Kentucky, he has had several masters about Bladensburg, and he will certainly be lurking about that place as he has a wife, the property of Mr. Isaac Barrett near Bladensburg. I have appointed Mr. Everard Gary of George Town my agent, and the above reward will be paid by him to any person who will deliver the said fellow to Mr. C. Tippett in the city jail. SAML. M'LEAN. July 25—6w
BURNS AND BELL. 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 style with neatness and dispatch. October 23—tf.
WASHINGTON & ALEXANDRIA TURNPIKE COMPANY. THE Stockholders of the "Washington and Alexandria Turnpike Company" are hereby notified that the second installment of Ten dollars on such share is called for by the President and Directors of the said company, and is required to be paid to Charles Page, Treasurer in Alexandria, on or before the 26th day of August next, agreeable to the act of Congress, entitled "An act for the establishment of a Turnpike Company in the county of Alexandria in the district of Columbia." By order of the Directors, G. DENBALE , President. July 25—tA26
FOR SALE. BY virtue of a decree of the high court of Chancery of the state of Maryland, will be exposed to public sale , in the town of Port Tobacco, Charles county, at the court house at 5 o'clock in the afternoon of the second day of the next August term of Charles county court (which commences on the fourth Monday of August next) a parcel of land late the property of John D. Scott deceased, being part of a tract of land called Poynton Manor , lying upon a branch of Nanjemoy creek on the post road leading to Nanjemoy from Port Tobacco near the "Hill Top" & about seven miles from Port Tobacco. This land consists of about 300 acres, of which between 50 and 100 acres are well timbered, about twenty acres are in marsh, and the remainder arable and very productive. The terms of sale are that the purchaser shall give bond with sufficient security to pay the purchase money in twelve months from the sale. It will be sold entire or in parcels as may best suit the persons inclined to purchase. F. S. KEY , Trustee. July 4—tdos
CHARLES H. VARDEN , MERCHANT TAILOR, 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 Coating, black silk Florentines. Likewise an elegant assortment of Spangle and rich silk Molekins for waistcoats with a variety of other articles suitable for the season. Regimentals and Navy Uniforms made in the most elegant and uniform style 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
Annapolis Md. July 15, 1808. CHARLES HENRY WILLIGMANN , RESPECTFULLY informs his friends and the public in general, that he has taken that justly celebrated INN , in this city, called the UNION TAVERN , which was formerly in the possession of Mr. George Mann . He hopes by his assiduity and attention to give general satisfaction, and that the high character which this Inn acquired in Mr. Mann's time, and which it still has, as being one of the first taverns in the Union, will not be lessened while it remains in his possession. August 12—9t
NOTICE. ALL Persons having claims against the estate of Elizabeth Philpot , late of Charles county deceased, are hereby warned to exhibit them legally authenticated on or before the 8th day of December, otherwise they may by law be excluded from all benefit of said estate, and all those indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment to Mr. Laurence Posey, who is fully authorized to conduct the said administration. P. B. SMOOT , Exr. Millersburg, Bourbon County } Kentucky, August 17—3t
FOR SALE, On reasonable terms THREE BRICK HOUSES Belonging to the "Washington Building Company" situated on 12th street west, near Pennsylvania avenue. The buildings are well constructed, and of good materials and well arranged for the accommodation of private families. As calls for Houses in that part of the city have of late been very pressing; and as it is the object and policy of the Company to obtain, without making a sacrifice, funds for the further execution of their Building Plan, they have concluded on this offer. Apply to Messrs. Michael Nourse & Alexander Cochran or either of them. N. B. Messrs. Hadfield, Wilson, Evans & Gray, the present occupants, will give every required information. August 19—ep2w
PUBLIC SALE. WHEREAS the subscriber intends to break up his present establishment, he will, at 11 o'clock in the morning of the first day of the next month (September) expose to sale, a quantity of HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE , Plate, Linen, and China. Some valuable Pictures will at the same time be offered for sale, should no person be desirous privately to make a bargain for them before that period. HENRY HIORT , Capitol Hill, at a house of Mr. Ingles's on the New Jersey avenue August 19—3t
NOTICE. THE Proprietors or Tenants of houses throughout the city of Washington, are earnestly requested to have their FIRE BUCKETS complete on or before the first Monday of September next, viz. one for each story, agreeable to an act of the City Council, passed January 10, 1803. By order of the Mayor, J. C. SHINDLE , Inspector. August 19—3t
FIVE DOLLARS REWARD. STRAYED or was stolen on the night of the 4th of August—a dark Cheval Sorrel HORSE , nine years old, about 15.1 hands high, natural trotter, shot all round. Whoever delivers him at Mr. Rhodes's tavern, will be entitled to the above reward. P. PURCELL , City of Washington, August 19—3t
LANDING THIS DAY, From on board the schooner MARIA , capt. Fitzhugh, from New York—A quantity of prime St. Croix sugar , Coffee, Molasses, Port Wine, Nutmegs, and Chocolate. Also, Gun-Powder, Imperial, and Hyson Teas, in chests, half and quarter chests and cannisters of this spring's importation, For sale by ROSS & GETTY , George Town, June 20—tf
LOTTERY TICKETS Just received and for sale, by Joseph Milligan , at J. Birch's book store George Town. * * * A few Tickets in the Charitable Marine Society , which commences drawing in Baltimore on Wednesday the 24th inst.—present price of Tickets five dollars, but will advance to 5 1 2 dollars before the drawing begins. August 15—
DANIEL RAPINE , On Capitol Hill, has just received the following New Books, which he offers for sale at the lowest possible prices for which they can be purchased at any place in the United States. Cruise's digest of the Laws of England respecting real property , 5 vols. Booth on real actions, with references to the English and American authorities. The Register of arts, or a compendious view of some of the most useful modern discoveries and inventions, by Thomas G. Fessenden. The American Register; or a general repository of history, politics, and sciences, vol. 2nd for 1807. Letters from England, by Don M. A. Espriella 2 vols. There is good authority for saying, that this valuable little work is written by Robert Southey. The Fatal Revenge, 2 vols. by D. J. Murphy.
** D. R. has also just received Rees' Cyclopedia , vol. 8, part 2nd—Subscribers at a distance are solicited to send for their copies, and those who have not been regular in taking up the work are particularly requested to call, as the work is expensive and requires punctuality. A handsome collection of Paper Hangings and Bordering , of select patterns, for sale as above. Also a quantity of choice Chewing Tobacco , of superior quality. August 22—
MARSHAL'S SALE. WILL be exposed to public sale on the 23rd day of September next, at Rhodes's tavern in Washington city, all the right, title, and interest of BENJAMIN PERKINS to lot No. 1, in square Seventy-five in said city, together with a small frame workshop thereon; the above property is seized and sold to satisfy two writs of feri facias issued out of the circuit court of the district of Columbia for the county of Washington, the one at the suit of Timothy Caldwell , and the other at the suit of Alexander Cochran use of Hugh Smith , against said Perkins . The sale will commence at 11 o'clock, A. M. Terms cash. WASHINGTON BOYD , Marshal D. C. August 22—2wts
NOTICE. ALL persons having claims against the estate of JOHN B. MEDLEY , deceased, are hereby warned to exhibit the same, with the vouchers thereof to the subscriber on or before the 19th day of March next, they may otherwise by law be excluded from all benefit of said estate. Given under my hand the 19th day of March, 1808. PETER BOUIC, Exr. August 22—3t
SALE AT AUCTION. ON Monday the 5th September, at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, (if fair, if not the next fair day) will be sold at the house of Richard Harrison near George Town, on the Frederic road— HOUSEHOLD & KITCHEN FURNITURE. ALSO, A strong, well finished, Philadelphia built CARRIAGE, but little used, with plated mouldings and harness. Terms of sale—for all sums not exceeding 50 dollars cash; above 50 and not exceeding 100 dollars, ninety days; all sums exceeding 100 dollars, six months credit, the purchasers to give their notes with approved indorsers, negotiable at the Bank of Columbia, or the city of Washington. JOHN TRAVERS , Auc. August 22—
PROPOSALS for carrying the Mails of the United States, on the following Post Roads, will be received at the General Post Office, until the 6th day of September next. 1. From Athens in Georgia, by Apalachy, Flint River, and Coweta to Tuckabatchy on the Mississippi territory estimated at 220 miles, once a week. Leave Athens every Saturday at 1 p. m. and arrive at Tuckabatchy the next Tuesday by 8 o'clock p. m. Leave Tuckabatchy every Wednesday at 4 a. m. and arrive at Athens the next Saturday by 10 o'clock a. m. 2. From Tuckabatchy by Majois Creek on Alabama, or Tensaw to Fort Stoddert, estimated at one hundred and seventy-three miles, once a week. Leave Tuckabatchy every Wednesday at 4 o'clock a. m. and arrived at Fort Stoddert the next Saturday by 10 o'clock a. m. Leave Fort Stoddert every Saturday at 2 p. m. and arrive at Tuckabatchy the next Tuesday by 8 p. m. 3. From Fort Stoddert to Farre's on Pearl River, estimated at 160 miles, once a week. Leave Fort Stoddert every Saturday at 2 p. m. and arrive at Farre's the next Tuesday by 8 o'clock p. m. Leave Farre's at Pearl River every Wednesday at 4 o'clock a. m. & arrive at Fort Stoddert the next Saturday by 10 o'clock a. m. 4. From Farre's on Pearl River to New Orleans, once a week. Leave New Orleans every Monday noon, and arrive at Farre's on Tuesday by 8 p. m. Leave Farre's every Wednesday at 4 a. m. and arrive at New Orleans on Thursday by noon.
NOTE 1. If the depending mail shall not have arrived at the time fixed for departure, the contractor shall be bound to wait for it, provided it arrives within six hours after such fixed time. NOTE 2. For every failure, and for every delay which shall continue so that the depending mail loses a trip, the contractor shall forfeit double the pay he would have received for such a trip, unless the failure shall have been occasioned by unavoidable accident; and in that case, the amount of the pay for such trip shall be forfeited, so that no pay shall be made unless the service is performed.
NOTE 3. For every hours delay, the Contractor shall forfeit one dollar; but no forfeiture for the delay of any one trip can exceed double the value of such trip. The contracts are to commence on the 1st day of October next, and continue in force until the 31st March 1808. General Post Office, July 20th. 1808.
A RUNAWAY FOR SALE WILL be sold on the 27th day of August next, for his jail fees, at the jail in Washington County, District of Columbia, a black man who calls himself JOHN , said he belonged to John Clarke of Alexandria. But has since confessed that he belongs to John P. Woodbeck of Neshiwa near Albany, state of New York, he is about forty years of age, 5 feet 5 1-2 inches high, pitted with the small pox & has lost his left eye. The sale to commence at 11 o'clock. CARTWRIGHT TIPPETT , Keeper of the Jail for Washington Boyd, Marshall. July 25—w3t
NOTICE. All persons having any demands against Timothy Caldwell will please to call with their accounts or demands duly authenticated for immediate payment; and those who are indebted to him are requested to make payment immediately or they will be dealt with as the law directs. TIMOTHY CALDWELL. N. B. The House lately occupied by T. Caldwell to be let. Enquire of Mr. William O'Neale . Washington City, Aug. 18, 1808.
FOR RENT. A THREE STORY BRICK HOUSE in F Street, near the Bank—For particulars enquire of WM. COCKING , the owner and occupier. Likewise, A BRICK TWO STORY HOUSE, on 19th street west, between F and G streets north—for particulars enquire as above. August 22—3t
RUNAWAY. WAS Committed to the jail of Washington County, District of Columbia, as a Runaway on the 17th instant, a black man who calls himself ELLICK , and says he belongs to David R. Williams , Esq. Cheraw District, South Carolina, he is about 20 years of age, 5 feet 3 1-2 inches high, had on when committed a black hat, striped silk coat, cotton shirt, blue cotton trousers and old shoes. His owner is desired to come prove him and take him away, or he will be sold for his jail fees and other expences as the law directs. CARTWRIGHT TIPPETT , Keeper of the jail, for Washington Boyd, Marshall, July 25—w3t.
District of Columbia, Washington county, to wit.
CIRCUIT COURT, JUNE TERM, 1808. Solomon Davis, Exr. of Solomon Simpson , deceased—complainant, against Abiel Jenners and Deborah his wife and Ferdinando Fairfax —Defendants.
THE bill states that on the thirtieth day of October 1799 the said Solomon Simpson loaned to the said Abiel Jenners , the sum of two thousand six hundred and fifty dollars, and for securing the repayment thereof to said Simpson with interest on or before the first day of November 1801, the said Jenners and the said Deborah his wife by deed of indenture bearing date on the day and year aforesaid, mortgaged to the said Simpson , one undivided sixth part of a tract or parcel of land in the city of Washington, called "Knock"—that the said sum of money and interest was never paid to the said Simpson in his life time, nor since his death to the said Davis who is the executor of the last will and testament of said Simpson —that upon a division of said tract of land, certain lots of ground in the city of Washington were allotted and conveyed to the said Jenners and wife, as the sixth part thereof—that the said Jenners and wife on or about the 2nd day of January 1802 conveyed said lots to the said Ferdinando Fairfax in fee simple who now claims the same under said conveyance.
The object of the bill is to foreclose said mortgage and to obtain a decree for the sale of said lots and which are particularly mentioned and described in said bill—
The bill further states, that the said Abiel Jenners and Deborah his wife and the said Ferdinando Fairfax do not reside within the district of Columbia, & that they are not within the limited jurisdiction of this court. It is thereupon on motion of the said complainant, ordered that he cause a copy of this order to be inserted in the National Intelligencer once a week for three successive weeks before the fourth Monday of December next; to the end that the said Abiel Jenners and Deborah his wife and the said Ferdinando Fairfax may have notice of the object of this bill and that they may be warned to appear in this court in person or by solicitor on or before the said fourth Monday of December next, to show cause if any they have why a decree should not pass as prayed.
By order, WM. BRENT , Clk. August 19—w3t
Orphan's Court, Prince Georges county, July 19th, 1808.
IT being represented to this court by Petition in writing of Robert McGill administrator of Benjamin Galt , late of said county, deceased, that in consequence of the absence of the deceased's representatives from the state of Maryland, and of doubts being entertained whether the said absent representatives are in existence or have left any issue to represent them, he cannot safely make distribution of the assets in his hands without the interposition of this court. It is therefore ordered, that unless the said absent representatives appear before this court on or before the 20th day of January next to receive their respective dividends, that the court will then proceed to make distribution of the assets in the hands of the said Rt. McGill , among the deceased's representatives residing in the state of Maryland, provided the said Robert McGill shall cause a copy of this order to be inserted in the National Intelligencer one a week for eight weeks before the 20th day of November next. Test TRUEMAN TYLER , Reg. of Wills for Prince Georges county. August 19—w3t
FOR SALE. BY Virtue of an order of the honorable William Cranch , chief judge of the circuit court of the district of Columbia, will be exposed to public sale, at the house of Mr. Wm. Rhodes in the city of Washington and district of Columbia, on Saturday the 3rd day of September next at 4 o'clock P. M. all the Real & Personal Property of John Banks ; amongst which are some valuable Lots, advantageously situated in the said city of Washington. The terms of sale will be made known at the aforesaid time and place. JAMES PORTER , Trustee.
All persons indebted unto John Banks , as also those indebted unto Lowdermilk & Co. late of the city of Washington, are desired to make immediate payment to the subscriber, or he will be reluctantly necessitated to indiscriminately proceed to a recovery as the law in such cases provides. JA. PORTER , August 10—w3t