The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1805-11-11 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER, AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VI. WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 1805.
No. DCCXCV. PAID IN ADVANCE.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
(By Authority.)
AN ACT
Authorising the appointment of measurers of Coal and re-measuring part of the act, entitled, "An act supplementary to the act, to regulate the measuring of Coal."
Be it enacted by the First and Second Chambers of the City Council of Washington, That from and after the passing of this act, all coal brought to the city of Washington for sale, and sold by measure, exceeding the quantity of twenty bushels, shall be measured under the inspection and agreeably to the direction of one of the coal measurers, to be appointed under the authority hereof.
Sec. 2. And be it enacted, That the Mayor be, and hereby is authorised annually, to appoint a number of coal measurers not exceeding five for the city, to continue in office for one year thereafter, and whose duty it shall be to attend the measuring of all coal sold by measure, and to see that the measure given is true and just, and agreeably to law.
Sec. 3. And be it enacted, That each and every coal measurer acting under the authority of this act, shall previously thereto take and subscribe an oath or affirmation for the faithful and impartial discharge of the duty hereby imposed, and that he will to the best of his knowledge see strict justice done both to the buyer and to the seller in the measurement of coal under his inspection, which oath shall be taken and subscribed in the presence of some magistrate residing in the city, and deposited with the Register.
Sec. 4. And be it enacted, That every coal measurer shall keep a book in which he shall regularly make entry of the time of measurement, the vessel, warehouse or yard, from which the coal is delivered, the seller's name, the quantity measured, and delivered for each purchaser, and to whom delivered; he shall also give to every person receiving coal, and with every load delivered, a ticket, in which shall be expressed the name of the seller, purchaser, and carrier, and the quantity of coal in the cart, waggons or other vehicle, with which it is sent.
Sec. 5. And be it enacted, That the books of admeasurement of coal, kept by each measurer, shall, within one month after the expiration of the year for which the appointment was made, be deposited and remain with the Register, and all those interested shall have free access thereto; and the Register is authorised and directed to give certificates therefrom, when demanded, for which he shall be entitled to receive for each certificate, twelve and a half cents.
Sec. 6. And be it enacted, That the decision of the measurer shall be final and complied with in measuring all coal delivered agreeably to this act: Provided, however, it shall always be at the option of those interested to call upon the measurer most agreeable to themselves, for the execution of the duties hereby imposed.
Sec. 7. And be it enacted, That the measurers shall be entitled to receive half a cent per bushel, as a compensation for their services, to be paid in equal proportions by the purchaser and seller, unless otherwise specially agreed upon by themselves.
Sec. 8. And be it enacted, That each measurer appointed shall provide and keep a two bushel measure, agreeably to the first section of the act "to regulate the measuring of coal," at the expense of the city, to be used when coal is delivered under his inspection.
Sec. 9. And be it enacted, That so much of the act, entitled, "An act supplementary to the act to regulate the measuring of coal," passed the fourteenth day of July, in the year one thousand eight hundred and three, as makes it lawful in cases where the purchasers may agree without measurement, be, and the same is hereby repealed.
Sec. 10. And be it enacted, That any person who shall sell any coal contrary to this act, shall forfeit for every such offence the sum of two dollars, one half to the informer, the other to the use of the city.
JOHN DEMPSIE, President of the First Chamber. SAML. HAMILTON, President of the Second Chamber. APPROVED, October 17th, 1805. ROBERT BRENT, Mayor. Test, THOMAS HERTY, REGISTER.
ELIAS B. CALDWELL, ATTORNEY AT LAW, HAS removed his Office, to the house lately occupied by Mr. LAW, on Capitol Hill. Washington, July 26—tf
TO HIRE or FOR SALE A MIDDLE aged, strong Negro Woman, who has been accustomed to House work. Also a NEGRO GIRL in her fourteenth year. Apply at the Office of the National Intelligencer. October 25—tf
NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER
The following document marks the spirit which characterised America thirty one years since, towards a government which then trampled on our rights. In approbation of the measure it recommended, we perceive the names of many of the most distinguished men the United States has produced. Our situation has since that period materially changed; but many of the sentiments and principles then avowed will remain eternally true.
Declaration, non-importation, non-consumption, and non-exportation agreement of the American Congress, resolved on October 24, 1774.
WE, his majesty's most loyal subjects, the delegates of the several colonies of New-Hampshire, Massachusetts bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, the three lower counties of Newcastle, Kent, and Sussex on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North-Carolina and South-Carolina, deputed to represent them in a continental congress, held in the city of Philadelphia, on the fifth day of September, 1774, avowing our allegiance to his majesty, our affection and regard for our fellow subjects in Great-Britain and elsewhere, affected with the deepest anxiety and most alarming apprehensions at those grievances and distresses, with which his majesty's American subjects are oppressed, & having taken under our most serious deliberation the state of the whole Continent; and finding the present unhappy situation of our affairs is occasioned by a ruinous system of colony administration, adopted by the British ministry, about the year 1763, evidently calculated for enslaving these colonies, and with them the British empire. In prosecution of which system, various acts of parliament have been passed for raising a revenue in America, for depriving the American subjects, in many instances, of the constitutional trial by jury, exposing their lives to danger, by directing a new and illegal trial beyond the seas, for crimes alleged to have been committed in America: and in prosecution of the same system, several late, cruel and oppressive acts have been passed respecting the town of Boston and the Massachusetts bay, and also an act for extending the province of Quebec, so as to border on the western frontiers of these colonies, establishing an arbitrary government therein, and discouraging the settlement of British subjects in that wide extended country; thus by the influence of civil principles and ancient prejudices, to dispose the inhabitants to act with hostility against the free protestant colonies, whenever a wicked ministry shall choose so to direct them.
To obtain redress of these grievances, which threaten destruction to the lives, liberty and property of his majesty's subjects in North America, we are of opinion that a non-importation, non-consumption and non-exportation agreement, faithfully adhered to, will prove the most speedy, effectual and peaceable measure: and therefore we do for ourselves, and the inhabitants of the several colonies whom we represent, firmly agree and associate under the sacred ties of virtue, honor and love of our country, as follows:
First. That from and after the first day of December next, we will not import into British America, from Great-Britain or Ireland, any goods, wares or merchandise whatsoever, or from any other place, any such goods, wares or merchandise, as shall have been exported from Great-Britain or Ireland; nor will we, after that day, import any East India Tea from any part of the world; nor any molasses, syrups, pan-cakes, coffee, or pimento, from the British plantations or from Dominica; nor wines from Madeira or the Western Islands; nor foreign indigo.
Second. We will neither import nor purchase any slave imported after the first day of December next: after which time we will wholly discontinue the slave trade, and will be neither concerned in it ourselves, nor will we hire our vessels, nor sell our commodities or manufactures to those who are concerned in it.
Third. As a non-consumption agreement, strictly adhered to, will be an effectual security for the observation of the non-importation, we, as above, solemnly agree and associate, that from this day, we will not purchase or use any tea imported on account of the East India company, or any on which a duty hath been or shall be paid; and from and after the first day of March next, we will not purchase or use any East India tea whatever; nor will we, nor shall any person for or under us, purchase or use any of those goods, wares or merchandise we have agreed not to import, which we shall know or have cause to suspect, were imported after the first day of December, except such as come under the rules and directions of the tenth article hereafter mentioned.
Fourth. The earnest desire we have not to injure our fellow subjects in Great-Britain, Ireland and the West Indies, induces us to suspend a non-importation until the 10th day of September, 1775; at which time, if the said acts, or parts of acts, of the British parliament, heretofore mentioned, are not repealed, we will not directly or indirectly, export any merchandise or commodity whatsoever to Great-Britain, Ireland or the West Indies, except rice to Europe.
Fifth. Such as are merchants, and use the British and Irish trade, will give order, as soon as possible, to their factors, agents and correspondents in Great-Britain and Ireland, not to ship any goods to them, on any pretence whatever, as they cannot be received in America; and if any merchant residing in Great-Britain or Ireland, shall, directly or indirectly, ship any goods, wares or merchandise, for America, in order to break the said non-importation agreement, or in any manner contravene the same, on such unworthy conduct being well attested, it ought to be made public; and, on the same being so done, we will not from thenceforth have any commercial connexion with such merchants.
Sixth. That such as are owners of vessels, will give positive orders to their captains, or masters, not to receive on board their vessels any goods prohibited by the said non-importation agreement, on pain of immediate dismissal from their service.
Seventh. We will use our utmost endeavours to improve the breed of sheep, and increase their number to the greatest extent; and, to that end, we will kill them as seldom as may be, especially those of the most profitable kind; nor will we export any to the West Indies or elsewhere; and those of us, who are or may become overseers of sheep, or can conveniently spare any sheep, will dispose of them to our neighbours, especially to the poorer sort, on moderate terms.
Eighth. We will, in our several stations, encourage frugality, economy, and industry, and promote agriculture, arts, and the manufactures of this country, especially that of wool; and will discountenance and discourage every species of extravagance and dissipation, especially all horse racing, and all kinds of gaming, cock-fighting, exhibitions of shows, plays, and other expensive diversions and entertainments; and on the death of any relation or friend none of us, or any of our families will go into any further mourning dress than a black crape, or ribbon on the arm or hat, for gentlemen, and a black ribbon and necklace, for ladies, and we will discontinue the giving of gloves and scarves at funerals.
Ninth. Such as are vendors of goods, or merchandise, will not take advantage of the scarcity of goods that may be occasioned by this association, but will sell the same at the rates we have been respectively accustomed to do, for twelve months last past. And if any vendor of goods, or merchandise shall sell any such goods on higher terms, or shall in any manner, or by any device whatsoever, violate or depart from this agreement, no person ought, nor will any of us, deal with any such person, or his, or her factor or agent, at any time thereafter, for any commodity whatever.
Tenth. In case any merchant trader or other person, shall import any goods or merchandise after the first day of December, and before the first day of February next, the same ought forthwith, at the election of the owner, to be either re-shipped or delivered up to the committee of the county or town, where in they shall be imported, to be stored at the risk of the importer, until the non-importation agreement shall cease, or be sold under the direction of the committee aforesaid; in the last mentioned case, the owner or owners of such goods shall be reimbursed (out of the sales) the first cost and charges, the profit, if any, to be applied towards relieving and employing such poor inhabitants of the town of Boston, as are immediate sufferers by the Boston port bill; and a particular account of all goods so returned, stored or sold, to be inserted in the public papers; and if any goods or merchandise shall be imported after the said first day of February, the same ought forthwith to be sent back again, without breaking any of the packages thereof.
Eleventh. That a committee be chosen in every county, city and town, by those who are qualified to vote for representatives in the legislature, whose business it shall be attentively to observe the conduct of all those touching this association; and when it shall be made to appear to the satisfaction of a majority of any such committee, that any person within the limits of their appointment has violated this association, that such majority do forthwith cause the truth of the case to be published in the gazette; to the end that all such loes to the rights of British America may be publicly known, and universally condemned as the enemies of American liberty; and thenceforth we, respectively, will break off all dealings with him or her.
Twelfth. That the committee of correspondence in the respective colo-
nies do frequently inspect the entries of their custom houses, and inform each other from time to time of the true state thereof, and of every other material circumstance that may occur relative to this association.
Thirteenth. That all manufactures of this country be sold at reasonable prices, so that no undue advantage be taken of a future scarcity of goods.
Fourteenth. And we do further agree and resolve, that we will have no trade, commerce, dealings or intercourse whatsoever, with any colony or province in North America, which shall not accede to, or which shall hereafter violate this association, but will hold them as unworthy of the rights of free men, and as inimical to the liberties of their country.
And we solemnly bind ourselves and our constituents, under the ties aforesaid, to adhere to the association until such parts of the several acts of Parliament passed since the close of the last war, as impose or continue duties on tea, wine, molasses, syrups, pan-cakes, coffee, sugar, pimento, indigo, foreign paper, glass, and painters colours, imported into America, and extend the powers of the admiralty courts beyond their ancient limits, deprive the American subjects of trial by jury, authorise the judge's certificate to indemnify the prosecutor from damages, that he might otherwise be liable to from a trial by his peers, require oppressive security from a claimant of ships or goods seized, before he shall be allowed to defend his property, are repealed: and until that part of the act of the 12 G. 3. ch. 24, entitled, "An act for the better securing his majesty's dock-yards, magazines, ships, ammunition, and stores" by which any persons, charged with committing any of the offences therein described, in America, may be tried in any shire or county within the realm, is repealed; and until the four acts passed the last session of Parliament, viz. that for stopping the port and blocking up the harbor of Boston—that for altering the charter and government of the Massachusetts Bay—and that which is entitled, "An act for the better administration of justice," &c. and that "for extending the limits of Quebec," &c. are repealed. And we recommend it to the provincial conventions, and to the committees in the respective colonies, to establish such further regulations as they may think proper, for carrying into execution this association.
In Congress, Philadelphia Oct. 26. Signed, Peyton Randolph, President.
New-Hampshire. John Sullivan, Nathaniel Folsom.
Massachusetts Bay. Thomas Cushing, John Adams, Samuel Adams, Robert T. Paine.
Rhode Island. Stephen Hopkins, Samuel Ward.
Connecticut. Eliphalet Dyer, Silas Deane, Roger Sherman.
New-York. Isaac Low, John Jay, John Alsop, James Duane, William Floyd, S. Boerum, Henry Wisner, Philip Livingston.
New-Jersey. James Kinsey, Richard Smith, Wm. Livingston, John De Hart, Stephen Crane.
Pennsylvania. Joseph Galloway, Edward Biddle, John Dickinson, John Morton, Charles Humphreys, George Ross, Thomas Mifflin.
New-Castle, &c. Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean.
Maryland. Matthew Tilghman, William Paca, Thomas Johnson, Samuel Chase.
Virginia. Richard H. Lee, Richard Bland, George Washington, Benj. Harrison, P. Henry, jun. Edmond Pendleton.
North-Carolina. William Hooper, R. Caswell, Joseph Hewes.
South-Carolina. Henry Middleton, John Rutledge, Thomas Lynch, Edward Rutledge, Christ. Gadsden.
To be Sold,
Or EXCHANGED for other property in the City, or its vicinity.
TWO valuable and contiguous TRACTS of LAND in the State of Kentucky, the one containing 6880 acres, and the other 652 acres, to be retrenched. They are under old and indisputable titles of more than twenty years, and situate in a populous county, adjoining flourishing settlements. All taxes thereon have been duly paid. Apply to the subscriber, JOHN BESKLEY.
City of Washington. November 6—wtt 3
FROM THE AURORA
THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE SEAS.
We hear this expression frequently made use of in conversation—had such is the force of habit, that we rarely stay to examine the import of phrases which form a part of the machinery of amusement, of enquiry, of controversy, and even of history, and which very often affect the peace and happiness of nations. What is meant by the sovereignty of the seas? Is it of the same nature as other sovereignties? Does it depend on the principles of natural right—agreement—compact or prescription?—Is it a sovereignty jure ditione or founded on the jus gentium? Concerning sovereignty on land we have distinct ideas, though there are various descriptions of sovereignty. In some countries where the sovereignty of the people was once the received and rational principle, that sovereignty is now trampled upon. Even in America, where, by the constitution and laws of the land, the principle of sovereignty in the people is recognised and in constant practical use, it is frequently decided; because one of the modes by which despotism prepares for the destruction of what it hates, is to find an excuse in its decision for its meditated crime.
That great and good man Sir Wm. Jones in his memorable dialogue, has given a distinct idea of the meaning which he attached to sovereignty in society. His biographer, Lord Teynmouth, has repeated the same idea in a few words.
"On the people depend the welfare, the security and permanence of every legal government; in the people must reside all substantial power; and to the people must all those to whose knowledge and ability, we sometimes wisely, often imprudently, confide, be always accountable for the exercise of that power with which they are intrusted."
Even where governments are established without regard to the people, we can obtain a distinct knowledge of the import of sovereignty, by resorting to the particular principle of its social power, whether it is vested in an aristocracy such as existed in Venice, in an oligarchy such as formerly existed in Berne, and such as now exists but under a different name and organization in Britain; or under a despotism such as in Prussia, Spain, or Russia. The governing and controlling and legislating power is here sovereign; and there is either a supposed or an actual submission of the governed to the sovereign, whether that sovereign be the few or the one.
We can trace the foundations even of these various principles of social sovereignty—in the institutions of ancient nations—in the intellectual sententious or sturdy independence of the Greek and Roman republics, we find in various ages the people supreme, either in their assemblies or by their delegates. In various changes we can trace the spirit of aristocracy, springing from the lust of power and of monopoly, occasionally strengthened by superstition and the general ignorance which prevailed in nations where constant wars or the absence of commercial enterprise, literary curiosity and other incitements, preclude the great mass from the cultivation of letters, or the improvement of the mind.
In the feudal ages, and those dark ages which succeeded the fall of the Roman empire, we can trace the foundation of individual despotism in the inevitable principle of military rule—promoted by similar means with these by which the ruin of popular sovereignty was accomplished in ancient Rome.
In every case we can discover some cause and in many instances (as in Denmark) some reasons which appear to justify the substitution of one species of sovereignty for another. But between these various principles and the phrase, the sovereignty of the seas, we find no analogy, no reasonable similitude, no principle which can sanction or palliate the monstrous tyranny which lurks beneath the terms of which it is composed.
The idea of Locke on the importance of rightly understanding terms, can never be too much attended to, while language is so imperfect as to leave room in the clearest definitions for the evasions of sophistry and the perversions of fraud. The import of this phrase was suggested to our present enquiry by a course of reflections on the late decisions in the British admiralty court, in the case of the ship Euch, capt. Doany, and some others.
We are taught by legal authorities, to consider the law of nations, as one uniform, rational and consistent system of principles; or that like the "common law" it embraces the whole of the moral law—the unerring rule of wisdom; that it emanated from the Deity himself, and is that rule of conduct which distinguishes between right and wrong, which was implanted in the breast of man by eternal uncreated wisdom, and which has been confirmed by the experience of ages. Whatever therefore is right, is COMMON LAW—whatever is wrong, is not COMMON LAW. That country whose citizens are not under the

of the common law, must be watched in the extreme.
The learner in maritime law give the same nearly the same definitions of jurisdiction. However, we find in the case of the ship in question, that what was maritime law four, six, or fifty years ago, is not law under the same circum- stances in 1805.
As the legislative power is the sove- reign power, we naturally come to en- quire how the law came to be changed; because the change of law must neces- sarily be an act of the sovereign power, real or usurped, wherever it appears.
The question then occurs—is there any legitimate sovereignty of the ocean? Independent nations, whenever unchal- lenged and unawed by danger, have uni- formly denied the existence of any so- vereignty on the ocean, which has been pertinaciously and properly called the common or highway of all nations. And it naturally connects itself with this notion, that he who commits a depredation on this common highway, is no better than the robber who goes up- on the highway on land, to levy contri- butions on the peaceable and industrious traveller.
A desire to understand a subject, which appears to be a legal cause of the present and of many former wars, induced us to turn some attention to it— and we shall endeavour to give such a sketch of the naval contests, which ei- ther took place in consequence of the assumption of this pragmatic sovereignty, or with an intention to snatch it from those by whom it has been assumed. Should this subject not branch out too much for a newspaper essay, we may perhaps give some comparative views of the principles of maritime tactics, as practised in various epochs, to some of which we referred some time since in analysing the account of the late naval recountre, which appeared in an En- glish paper. At present we shall not enquire into the principles of naval tac- tics, nor the size and structure of ships, but of the political transactions involved in the various contests for an absolute dominion on the Ocean.
The English writers carry up the history of their navy to the days of the heptarchy, and proudly display the suc- cess of Offa, monarch of Mercia in his contest for the dominion of the sea with Charlemagne. The establishment of a naval power by Alfred the great is dwelt on with a complacency that cannot be too much applauded, because it had its foundation in the virtuous spirit of free- dom which served the British arm to repel invading foes and to preserve their national independence. Alfred's fleet is represented as amounting to 120 sail. Those of Edgar one of his successors a- mounted to 3600—the largest of these vessels however carried no more than 50 men. This is the first of the monarchs of Britain whom we find claiming the sovereignty of the ocean, and assuming the following vain glorious title—"Ed- gar, emperor and lord of all the Kings of the ocean and of all the nations which surround it." And as an ingenious wri- ter remarks, as "the triumphs of pride are always outrageous," this sovereignty of the ocean caused eight tributary kings to row him in a barge.
The irruptions of the Danes snatched the sovereignty of the ocean from its usurpers, who were obliged to pay the ignominious tribute called Danegeld. Cnut the invader and conqueror of Britain aspired to the vain glorious in- solence, of not merely ruling on the o- cean, but of forbidding its waters to en- croach with their tides—which never- theless had the presumption to disobey.
The successors of Canute appear not to have imitated him. Harold is the next who appears to have collected a considerable fleet; but another invader, William of Normandy, possessed him- self of the pretension to the sovereign- ty of the ocean with the absolute sove- reignty of England. His successors, until the period of the crusades, paid little attention to naval affairs. Rich- ard carried on one expedition 150 sail.
King John was the next who appears to have aimed at the sovereignty. By this pusillanimous tyrant, it was ordain- ed, that all foreign vessels should salute the English ships upon pain of confine- ment and corporal chastisement. And this ordinance contained these extraor- dinary clauses—"Any ships or vessels laden or sailing on the seas, that will not lower or take down their flags at the command of the king's lieutenant, or of the admiral of the king, or his lieutenant, but fight against any of my fleet; such if they be taken shall be reputed as enemies, and their ships, vessels and goods, seized and confiscat- ed as the goods of enemies; although the masters or owners should afterwards come and alledge the said ships, or ves- sels and goods to belong to our lord the king; and that the hands on board be chastised by imprisonment, at discretion, for their rebellious conduct." It was to maintain this sovereignty that the five ports (now called Cinque ports ) were established who had certain immunities for supplying 37 sail of vessels for the king's service. The ports were Hastings, Romey, Hitha, Dover, and Sandwich, all opposite the French coast, and on three points where invasion would be most to be apprehended because most convenient for the invader.
Edward I. re-asserted the same au- thority, but he appears to have limited it to the English seas, the words of the ordinance are—"especially to retain and maintain the sovereignty which the kings of England exclusively possessed, on the seas, with regard to the de- claration, amendment, and interpreta- tion of the laws by them made for the government of all manner of persons passing through the said seas."
As we meant to continue this subject w. I. here offer a few remarks. The case of the Essex, captain Orne, and the other before mentioned, appears to
have been determined by the common law of Edward I. For as antiquity is always a good foundation for a legal principle, it is not to be presumed, that a letter of a modern secretary of state such as lord Hawkesbury could super- cede an ordinance of king John or of Edw. I. And here we see not only a precedent for the English king's privy council, to alter and amend interpre- tations of laws, but that they were in those days intended to comprehend " all man- ner of persons ."
No. II.
Those who admire all that is ancient, however incompatible with the state of society in modern times, cannot be dis- pleased at the variety of precedents which we have undertaken to lay before them, demonstrating the antiquity of the pretensions to the sovereignty of the ocean. On the other hand those who are disposed to question the right of prescription, when opposed to reason and moral right, will not be at least unamused by the illustration.
The monarchs of the 13th century differed only in name from the leaders of a banditti; and their depredations upon each other, and upon the feeble chiefs who ruled the divided communi- ties, which have been since united into powerful kingdoms, afford but too many examples of the lawless spirit of depred- ation, which at the distance of six cen- turies prevails among people called civilised—among kings affecting to be disciples of the religion of Christ, and among nations affecting the distinction of wisdom. As it is not our purpose to notice the cruelties exercised in those days, we shall pass over the history of the barbarities practised which brought about an alliance between Philip of France and Eric VIII. of Norway, for the vindication of the free navigation of the sea against the sovereignty assumed by Edward.
Eric provided 200 galleys and 100 other armed vessels. These however not being adequate, Philip of France engaged Geoffrey de Commerci, a priest, to fit out a number of galleys at Calais; and these being equipped without the aid of Eric, the French landed at, at- tacked, and burned Dover, which pro- duced a counter attack against Cher- burg, and the burning of the abbey thereof by the English.
Petty warfare continued under the reign of Edw. III. and their old rival irritated by the pretensions of Edw. to the throne of France attacked the English with great vigor on their favorite element. They landed at Portsmouth, attacked, and laid it in ashes; and proceeded to Southampton, which they plundered, and retired to Dieppe with their inf- amous booty. They made similar des- cents on Hastings, in Kent, in various parts in Cornwall, Devonshire, and in the Medway; and captured two of the largest vessels in the English navy.
Edward with a fleet of from 240 to 300 vessels took the command himself, and determined to attack Philip whose force amounted to 400 ships, 120 of which were larger than the accustomed size of ships of war in those days. The English met their adversary in the road of Sluys and advanced towards them in two lines, with the wind, which the French did not dispute. In the action the Flemings joined the English fleet and the French were defeated with a loss of 200 vessels; Edward as a manifestation of his power hung Beluchet one of the French commanders at the yard arm. The conflicts on the land for several years from the battle of Crecy to that of Poictiers, appear to have diminished the importance of various naval combats in which the parties were alternately dis- comfited and victorious; the most event- ful of which took place before Rochelle in 1346, in which the Spanish fleet then possessed of the ablest seamen in Europe, being called to aid Charles V. obtained a signal victory over the English, taking the admiral earl of Pembroke prisoner, with whom they returned to Spain.
Edward soon after died, when a Spa- nish fleet of 140 sail under a French admiral made a descent upon Rye, which they plundered; they proceeded thence to the Isle of Wight which they also ravaged, and treated in succession, Lyme, Plymouth, Poole, Dartmouth, and Penzance in the same manner; they menaced Dover but made no im- pression but that of terror for which the accounts of the neighbouring depreda- tions had too well prepared the inhabi- tants.
Edward had acted so arbitrarily dur- ing his reign, in impressing and seizing ships belonging to individuals in virtue of his prerogative, that his successor Richard II. found it impracticable to collect a fleet. Parliament in vain com- plained of the decay of the fleet; a single port could formerly supply more than the whole nation at that time. Com- merce was destroyed. Richard adopted an expedient, nevertheless, which shewed he was disposed to maintain his pre- tensions to the sovereignty of the sea; he imposed a tribute on all vessels touching on the coasts or passing through certain latitudes. This imposition in- creased the commercial people of all Europe, and prepared them to combine against the power of England. The tribute is now exacted under the name of light house duties , and those who can- not retaliate submit to an imposition which is levied under a pretence to which one tenth of the produce is not applied.
The Spaniards and the Scots with their fleets levied severe contributions on England for several years, and de- feated numerous squadrons detached to attack them, and break up the blockade of the English coasts.
Charles VI. of France resolved to in- vade England, and "from the port of Seville to the coast of Prussia, there was not left one large vessel that was not at the service of France." It was com-
puted that there were 1500 vessels!— The alarm was greater in England than was justified by the issue, for the design was abandoned without being attempted, and the joy was as great in England as if they had repelled the enemy.
Cannon were soon after introduced in naval combat; and the failure of the project of invasion, spirited up some enterprising officers who fitted out a fleet in Normandy; attacked an En- glish fleet; captured and carried them into port; they sent back the admiral Hugh Spencer upon his parole.
These incidents caused the revival of the project of invasion. The constable de Clisson and the admiral Vienne, had each a fleet fitted out at Treguier and Havre. The latter admiral held the political dogma that the English were most vulnerable in their own island , and great expectations were obtained from the valor and experience of both. But through the interference of the duke de Bretagne, this also was never carried into operation.
The English confined their enterprises to marauding or buccaneering for sev- eral years, attended by the usual vici- tudes of irregular undertakings. A small fleet under the count de St. Pol, landed in Hampshire and plundered the Isle of Wight, but with no other effect. A similar enterprise was undertaken with the like effect by the British.
However, upon the revolt of the Welch in 1405, the count de la Marche and the marshal Montmorenci landed in Wales, the latter at the head of 12,000 men, took and destroyed Here- ford; and afterwards penetrated into England, ravaging the country as far as Winchester, but was soon after obliged to retreat out of the country.
These naval expeditions, combined with the ambitious pretensions of their kings, laid the foundation of that national hostility which has not yet subsided, and which seems to portend to one or other of the powers a fortune and a fate similar to those of Rome and Carthage.
Having noticed so much of the histor- ical transactions of the rival nations, let us for a moment speculate on the proba- ble issue of the contention of the present day.
It appears that the passions of man- kind are already engaged in the inter- ests of one or the other party. The cit- izens of America it would seem ought to view them alike with equal indiffer- ence or apprehension. From the En- glish we experience neither justice nor a decent respect on the ocean. If this is her conduct towards us, when on the verge of national election, what should we have to expect, were she to obtain a complete triumph over her rival and give the law on the ocean as her Ed- wards and Henrys did in the narrow seas, " to all manner of persons passing thro' the seas ."
On the other hand, if her rivals should triumph—if by one desperate stroke she should annihilate the combined forces, turn her whole power along with the force to be obtained from conquered enemies upon the shore of England—James II. of England, who was no ordinary seaman, declared that "no invader of England who ever car- ried a force with him failed to conquer." If such should be the issue—and more wonderful events have arisen to amaze the unexpecting and confident part of mankind; we ask upon this hypothet- ical case, what would be the effect?
Deductions from such hypotheses may be of use; they may teach rash men con- sideration—they may teach even the prejudiced some useful lessons of pru- dence.
FROM THE COMMONWEALTH.
Pittsburgh, October 30.
ALLEGHENY COUNTY.
Adjourned Court of Common Pleas, October 25, 1805.
Present—ROBERTS, President, WALLACE & McDOWELL, Associates.
Commonwealth of } Rule to show cause Pennsylvania, } why an attachment vs. } should not issue a- E. Pentland. } gainst the defend- } ant for an alleged } contempt of said } court.
It was contended by MOUNTAIN, for the defendant, that the doctrine of at- tachment was contrary to the genius of the common law, repugnant to the prin- ciples of our constitution and the genius of our laws, and therefore should be re- sorted to only in cases of necessity, as for contempt committed in the presence of the court, or by the officers of the court; and that in this case the reme- dy was by indictment. He examined the cases in which the supreme court had punished contempts, not committed in their presence, nor by the officers of the court—insisted that the supreme court had not the transcendent powers of the Court of King's Bench, the cases of contempt being enumerated in the act of 1722—and he contended, that granting the supreme court had this transcendent power, it did not follow, of course, that the court of common pleas had the same power. He took a full view of the argument of Mr. Lew- is, in the legislature, in the cause of Os- wald, and proved that his positions were not supported by law. To the objec- tion, that in the act of 1722, no mention was made of contempts committed in the presence of the court, he answered, that no law was requisite to invest courts with that power—it was like the right of self preservation. And, in conclusion, he contended that the editor of "The Commonwealth" could not be punish- ed, inasmuch as he had published the truth—in the course of his argument, he said that the doubts entertained by
judge Brackenridge, in the case of Pass- more, as to the extent of the purgation in cases of contempt, proved that courts knew little about the doctrine.
BALDWIN, for the commonwealth, in- sisted upon the power of the court to proceed by attachment—he considered the practice sanctioned by the legisla- ture in the acquittal of the impeached judges of the supreme court—and ob- served that the exercise of this power could not be repugnant to the constitu- tion and laws of this commonwealth, which denied to any man the right of being a judge in his own cause—inasm- uch, as the defendant's spirit for libel- ling might possibly carry him so far as to libel all the courts of the state, and then by sheltering himself behind this doctrine, no court could be found, free from imputation, in which he might be tried. He condemned the fashionable practice of railing against the system of common law, and declared the objections against it to be founded in ignorance, as the system of common law contained more morality than any other system ex- tant, excepting the Bible . He defined common law to be common sense, from which he inferred, as a matter perfectly relevant to the case, that every man who possessed good common sense, was a good common lawyer. He did not know of any precedent, reported, in favor of the court of common pleas ex- ercising the power of proceeding by at- tachment—but within his own personal knowledge, he knew of two cases, which occurred during the presidency of Mr. Addison, in which the court had exer- cised that power.
The opinion of the court, on the day following the argument, was, that they considered themselves possessed of the power of granting an attachment in the present case—but they rather chose to proceed by indictment, by which course the defendant would, agreeably to the constitution, have the benefit of an impartial trial by a jury of the vicinage; and that, in pursuance of that determi- nation, the editor of The Common- wealth should enter security, himself in 500 dollars, and two other sureties in 250 dollars each, for his appearance at the ensuing court of oyer and terminer to be held on the third Monday of Decem- ber next, to answer the charge of hav- ing published a false, scandalous and malicious libel, with intent to defame the court aforesaid.
The issue of this cause, so far, is of importance to printers, and favorable to the liberty of the press, as it tends to discountenance the arbitrary and barba- rous practice adopted by the supreme court of setting themselves up as an or- acle of infallibility, and assuming the power of hearing, adjudging, and deter- mining on the punishment of alleged of- fences, when they are themselves the party offended.
Communication of Governor Bloom- field to the Legislature of New Jer- sey, delivered Oct. 22.
Gentlemen of the legislature:
I have the honor to lay before you communications from the governors of North Carolina and Massachusetts, with resolutions of the legislature of those states, proposing "an amendment to the federal constitution, so as to au- thorise and empower the Congress of the United States to pass a law, when- ever they may deem it expedient, to prevent the further importation of slaves from any of the West India islands, from the coast of Africa, or elsewhere, into the United States, or any part thereof." Also a letter from the governor of Ken- tucky, proposing "such an amendment to the constitution of the United States, as shall confine the jurisdiction of the courts of the United States to cases in law and equity; arising un- der the constitution and laws of the United States, and treaties made, or which shall be made under their author- ity: cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls; cases of admiralty and marine jurisdiction; con- troversies to which the United States shall be a party; to controversies be- tween two or more states." And also resolutions of the legislature of Penn- sylvania approving of the said proposed amendment by the legislature of Ken- tucky, and uniting in requesting the concurrence and co-operation of the le- gislature of the state of New Jersey, to procure the said amendment respecting the judiciary power of the courts of the United States.
Two hundred and fifty shares of stock in the Newark turnpike company, were subscribed in behalf of this state, and the monies appropriated, drawn from the Treasury conformable to the direc- tions of the acts passed for this purpose by the last legislature.
The right of this state in the Newark Banking and Insurance company, has been transferred for one thousand five hundred and thirty dollars advance; and after the deduction of advertising in the eight newspapers in this state, and in one of the newspapers of New- York, the balance, one thousand four hundred and eighty-two dollars, has been paid to the Treasurer of this state.
A copy of the laws and three copies of the journals of the Senate and of the House of Representatives, of the second session of the eighth Congress; six oc- tavo volumes of the late revised laws of Pennsylvania, and a copy of the late acts of the legislatures of Connecticut and N. Carolina, have been received and are deposited in your library.
Although there is no provision by law for annual returns of the militia, to be made to the legislature; yet I take the liberty to submit to your inspection and consideration, a general return of the militia of New Jersey, made to me by adj. gen. Hunt, for the current year, by which it is presumed you will be con- vinced of the necessity of some amend-
ments being made in the present militia laws of this state.
JOSEPH BLOOMFIELD.
New Haven, Oct. 31.
As the making of woolen cloths is so greatly improved by the carding ma- chines lately erected in different places, it is probable that this with the rapid increase of our inhabitants, will increase the demand for wool at least in propor- tion, and as the demand for wool has been greater than could be supplied, it remains for legislators to determine what further encouragement for the in- crease and improvement in sheep and wool may be necessary for the public good. That sheep afford light food, cloathing and an excellent manure, are facts so well known they need no com- ment. For a number of years past I have had a desire to improve the breed of sheep, and have taken some mea- sures for that purpose. In the year 1800 I purchased a pair of sheep called the otter breed.—This breed of sheep are well known by some, but I presume are unheard of by many others. They generally have long round bodies, thick necks and breasts, broad hips, very short legs that stand wide apart, and some of them bend outwards. They cannot run or leap fences equal with o- thers and mine have about the same quantity of wool as the other kind, and some finer. My lambs by those rams with other sheep have generally been either of the otter or common kind, but in some instances they partake partly of the shape of both, and I think these ameliorate the breed. In October, 1802, I obtained one of the Spanish Merino rams, imported by col. Humphreys, and put him with part of my sheep, and by this means in the spring, 1803, had some of the half blooded lambs. Soon after the lambs had come, I put them and their dams with my other sheep and lambs, and kept them together through the summer, and in the fall separated these lambs with my others from the old sheep, and so kept them through the winter. In the summer they were ma- nifestly different, and wintered much better than my other lambs, that lay with them, and at shearing yielded one fifth more in weight of wool on an av- erage than my other sheep, and the qua- lity far superior—exceeding my expec- tation. This wool was spun and woven in my own family. The wool was card- ed and the cloth dressed at the works of col. Humphreys, at Rimman Falls, in Derby, and by reputed merchants that cloth has been judged to be equal in quality to English broad cloth from six to six dollars and a half per yard. The genuine breed of those sheep are nearly the same size of our common sheep, and completely covered with wool, exceed- ing fine and thick, and yield more wool than our common sheep and much more oily than the other wool, and by mixing them, mine have increased their size and wool. I have some of the three- quarter blooded; their wool bears a near resemblance to the genuine, and from my half blooded rams (the two last seasons) I have had a number of quarter blooded lambs, which are larger and yield more wool than my half blooded but not so fine. I have kept this breed with some of my other sheep for the purpose of fair experiment, and from the observations of three summers and two winters, they have done better in summer and winter than my others. I think they are a hardy, healthy breed of sheep. By these experiments and ob- servations with others in my neighbor- hood, I am convinced that great im- provement may be made in our sheep and wool by mixing the breed with them, worthy the attention of all that raise sheep, as well as the public.
DANIEL HOLBROOK.
Derby, Oct. 21, 1805.
Bennington, Oct. 28.
We mentioned in our last that the choice of a speaker, in the House of Re- presentatives, was decided by a major- ity of twenty: we now find we were not then correctly informed, and that the vote stood as follows; For Mr. Aaron Leland, the republican candidate, 118, for Mr. Lewis R. Morris, the federal candidate, 71, and two scattering. Thus the majority, or republican strength ov- er the federal, is 37 instead of 20.
An error was likewise committed from misinformation, with respect to the business before the house, relative to the conduct of the supreme court: The federal attempt at impeachment proved utterly abortive; the conduct of the judges was proven to be consonant to law, where the law was express; to long established precedent, where the law was silent; and to moderation and prudence, in every instance. Thus the schemes of office seekers, and the schemes of faction were rendered void, and the honor of republicanism evinced by the result. After passing the vote for ex- onerating the judges, from the charges brought against them, the republicans brought forward a vote, to postpone the election of the judges of the supreme court until a future day, which vote passed, and on the day appointed, the re-election of each of the judges was de- cided by respectable majorities.
When justice is laid to the line, and righteousness to the plummet, the com- plexion of virtue will be brightened, and the cause of republicanism advance- ed.
If any thing could make a party zealot blush, who, to carry his point, has de- scended to malignity, and aimed at the assassination of character; it would ap- pear that shame and confusion of face ought to belong to the federalists of Ver- mont.—After evading an investigation of their plots against the judges of the supreme court, at the last session of as-

sembly, after scattering their Post-Toy Insectives, insinuations and surmises, just before the election, while the business of their envy was pending, and common decency demanded their silence, the judges were re-elected by a larger majority than they had ever before obtained. The Lord reigneth—He ruleth the wrath of man, and the remainder of wrath he will restrain.
New-Orleans, Sept. 21. Nothing new has transpired since our last, to throw any light on the state of our affairs with Spain—and we cannot venture to say what will be the event of the misunderstanding. Gov. Claiborne will return in a few days, when, perhaps we may obtain such information as will enable us to form a correct opinion. The time we think is favorable to the commencement of a war—That we shall have to fight Spain as soon as she is relieved from the war with Great Britain, we have no doubt—Then there can be as little question that we had better commence the war when she has it not in her power to defend her colonies: when at one blow we may deprive her of the power of injury forever.
It may be thought by some that delay is necessary—but we entertain a different opinion: delays are dangerous—the cause of war is ample; and the moment propitious. We deprecate war when it can be avoided with honor, but we never wish to see our country yield an inch, or make the policy of war a per cent. calculation. Some may think we are too precipitate—that we ought to have reinforcements of troops before hostilities are authorized—here again we differ, by drawing the troops from the various posts on the Mississippi, from the Walnut Hills to Point Coupee, and calling into service the Orleans volunteers, we should have a force sufficient to strike a blow that the enemy would not recover from the war. Baton Rouge might be taken by the troops as they descended the Mississippi; when concentrating our forces at this place, we would pass into West Florida, and occupy Mobile, Pensacola, and such other places as we might deem necessary. The volunteers we think admirably calculated for such an enterprize would move with celerity, attack with vigor, and support the most daring opposition with the greatest obstinacy.
A letter from the Balize, dated Sept. 18th, advises that the Viper British privateer, is cruising off the bar, and boards every vessel coming in or going out.
PUBLIC SALE, Pursuant to a decree of the Court of Chancery, I will sell at public sale on Saturday the 30 inst. the following valuable property in the city of Washington. All that Lot of ground, being part of square No. 74, adjoining the six Buildings upon which several frame buildings are erected, one of which is large and well calculated for an extensive wet or dry good store, and the others with a small expence may be made to suit a family. This valuable property has a front of 86 feet on Pennsylvania avenue, and 140 feet front on 22d street.
Also, Lots numbered 3, 4, 5, and 6, in square No. 38 the three first having a front of 28 feet 7 inches each, and the last 91 feet 1 inch, on Pennsylvania avenue; each lot is improved by a two story brick building intended for bark buildings, but which may, at an inconsiderable expence, be rendered comfortable dwellings. A more particular description of these lots will be given on the day of sale, or at any time before, on application to me. Terms of sale to be for ready money, or money to be paid immediately upon the ratification of the sale by the Court of Chancery for the district of Columbia. The sale to commence at half after 10 o'clock A. M. on the premises. JOSEPH FORREST, Trustee. November 8—idof
FALL & WINTER GOODS. JOHN CUX HAS this day received a Large addition to his former supply of FALL and WINTER GOODS, which makes his assortment very complete. Most of his goods were bought on such terms as to enable him to offer them by piece or retail lower than the regular importers can afford to sell at. George town, Oct. 18—NI&UGeptf
District of Columbia, Washington county, to wit: BE it remembered that, on the 4th day of November 1805 John Cannon brought before me the subscriber a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, a hay MARK about 4 years old, with a saddle and bridle on, the saddle newly sewed, which more he took up on the 31st of October 1805, as a stray. Given under my hand and seal this 4th day of November 1805 ROBERT ALEXANDER, (L. S.)
The owner of the above property is required to come forward to the subscriber near the Navy Yard, prove property, pay charges and take her away. JOHN CANNON. Nov 8—gt
RAGS. The highest price, in Cash or Books will be given for any quantity of clean Linen and Cotton Rags, by Ravine Conrad and Co. Capital Hill. June 24—
WASHINGTON CITY. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11.
The following is extracted from a Connecticut federal print. It purports to be a letter from Richmond; but this is scarcely credible. Can the reader quote a parallel to this for malignant falsehood? Can he find in a single print of the South an instance of so profligate a libel on the morals of the North?
Norwich, (Conn.) Oct. 29. Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Richmond, Virginia, to the editor. SIR, “I am sensible that it is the prevailing opinion among you, that Virginia is the very hot-bed of democracy. The opinion is in part correct—believe not however, that we are all democrats here—I can assure you, there are many, very many good honest federalists among us, men of character, principle and property—that there are a majority of democrats in this state, cannot with truth, be denied—but that this majority is composed of the most vicious, dissipated and abandoned characters, is equally true—beings who rise at 10, A. M. flog their negroes and race horses till 3 P. M. and play billiards and drink whiskey till midnight. Of this description, sir, are the zealous advocates of liberty and equality among us, and such are the men who have given to the United States a President!!!”
MARRIED on Thursday evening last by the Rev. Mr. Sayrs, Mr. George G. MacDaniel to Miss Catharine C. Simmons both of Washington city.
Died, at Rocky Mount, on the Catawba River, on the 6th ultimo, col. FRANCIS MENTGES. He arrived there in the month of April last, as an assistant to col. Sent, in the military establishment of the United States forming at that place.
Creed Taylor, Esq. was on Saturday unanimously appointed by the Executive of this commonwealth, a judge of the general court, to supply the vacancy occasioned by the death of judge Jones. The executive, we understand, would not have proceeded to the appointment at this time, as the legislature will meet on the first Monday in next month, had they not conceived the clause in the constitution vesting them with this power in the recess imperative, and consequently that it was their duty to fill the vacancy immediately. Richmond Argus.
On Saturday the first series of actions which we hinted at as impending, were deposited in the sheriff's office of this district. They are at the suit of Thomas M'Kean, and are severally against the following persons— Matthew Lawler, Esq. Thomas Leib, Esq. Dr. M. Leib. Mr. Jacob Mitchell, late a member of the state legislature. Wm. Duane, printer. Aurora.
The system of piracy pursued on the seas by the great powers, to relieve those they cannot honorably pay, reminds us of the violence with which the opposition seize every thing which can belong to the reputation and hopes of the friends of our Government. These depredations are found every where. And the opposition claim the same right to dispose of every thing belonging to the republicans, as the English to dispose of neutral property. Nothing stands in the way of their convenience, and every thing must submit to their necessities. At some future day, when settlement is made, some treaty is to quiet the whole matter. And the hope to cajole, makes them content to be found in all mischief without blushing. But supposing such a treaty should never be signed, how then is settlement to be made? Salem Reg.
Extract of a letter to the editor of the Aurora, dated Chillicothe (state of Ohio) October 15, 1805.
“Our republican governor has been re-elected, nearly unanimously—there have been but a few scattering votes. Every Senator and Representative, elected to the next assembly, so far as I have heard, are a Republican: and altho' the federalists had but two members in the upper and three in the lower house last year, I am led to believe they will not have even so many the present. We have been uncommonly healthy here this season. The emigration to this country the present year, has far exceeded that of any former one. The United States' lands lying in this district, are nearly all taken up. Lands which were sold 3 years ago for 2 dollars per acre, are now selling at from 12 to 15 dollars per acre. “Col. Burr is now in this town.”
Trenton, Nov. 4. On Wednesday afternoon, agreeably to appointment, the two Houses went into joint meeting—James Cox, Esq. in the chair. On proceeding to the appointment of a Secretary of State, the votes were For James Linn 31 John Beatty 20 Mr. Linn was of course declared duly elected. For Clerk of Burlington county, the votes were For Joseph M'Ivaine 28 Reuben D. Tucker 24 Mr. M'Ivaine was declared duly elected. For Clerk of Gloucester county, the votes were For Charles Ogden 27 Elisha Clark 25 Mr. Ogden was declared duly elected.
Philadelphia, November 5. The brig William and Mary, Easterly, captured on her passage from Charleston to Amsterdam, and carried into Yarmouth (E.) has been released on paying costs. The decision in this case determines the principle that the late orders of the British government for bringing in American vessels with cargoes, not the produce of the United States, are only intended to apply (as in the case of the Essex) where the neutral took her cargo originally in the colonies of the enemy.
New-York, November 7. The United States frigate Adams, captain Murray, sailed yesterday morning on a cruise.
The British frigate Cambrian, so frequently employed in blockading our port, sailed from Sandy Hook for Halifax yesterday morning.
Extract of a letter received by the ship Osage, from Havana.
“The following vessels have been sent in here for adjudication:— “Brig Jason, Palmer, of Philadelphia, from Liverpool for New-Orleans, taken by the Spanish privateer Bocona Union, capt. Ulariego, and carried into Cavanas. This vessel has been detained upwards of three months, the principal part of the cargo plundered. “Brig Argo, Lilly, of Dresden, from Jamaica to New-York, with rum, captured by the Spanish privateer Flor de Mays, Lissard, carried into the west end of Cuba and libelled. “Schr. Nelson, Thompson, of Newbern, N. C. from Jamaica for Charles-ton, with rum and 13000 dolls. cash taken by the Spanish privateer Vengeance, Antonio Ric master, sent into Manel and plundered of his money: vessel and cargo libelled. “Schr. Letitia, Franklin, of and from Philadelphia for New-Orleans, taken by the privateer Vengeance and sent into Havana. “The brig Sally, Barry arrived at Havana the day capt. Sammis sailed, last from Laguira, had been plundered off the west end of Cuba by two privateers one under French and the other under Spanish colors. “The abuses on the commerce of the United States in this quarter, are increasing from the increased number of privateers, and the idea they have that in consequence of the variance which they suppose exists between the government of the United States and court of Spain, they will be justified in making captures. “Certificates of property are a necessary requisite to every bill of lading, and sea lettered vessels are viewed with great suspicion by the court of admiralty in this island. “The treaty between the United States and Spain is not taken into consideration, except in cases when it will militate against the captured. The laws are such as to occasion great detention and delay in prize causes, and the disposition of the government, and the judge of Admiralty is such, and the intrigues in every department are so frequent and intricate, that an American stands a poor chance for justice; and if he eventually obtains the liberation of his vessel, when he comes to take possession of her he finds her plundered, the necessary consequence of delay, which is too frequently caused for the express purpose of giving the privateers an opportunity of doing it. “From the long habit they have in this island, of depredating upon American commerce with impunity—they absolutely consider it free plunder, and unless some measures are taken by our government adequate to the evil (which are to make the people of this island feel the misery they would be exposed to without our commerce) we expect their abuses will increase rather than diminish.”
NOTICE. THE subscriber anxious to settle with all those who have accounts standing against him unpaid, earnestly requests all persons indebted to him for Medical Services rendered previous to the 1st of Jan. 1805, immediately to pay off their respective balances, as no farther indulgence can be given. Those who do not comply with the above request may be assured that the most speedy and effectual mode to compel payment will be adopted without respect of persons. EDWARD GANTT. Nov. 10—1m
NOTICE. Subscribers in arrears are respectfully requested to make immediate payment, otherwise their papers will be discontinued. Nov. 6, 1805.
THEATRE. THIS EVENING, NOVEMBER 11. Will be presented a Comedy in three acts, called the FARM HOUSE: OR The Custom of the Manor. END OF THE PLAY The Comic Tale of Monsieur Tonson, by Mr. GREEN. TO WHICH WILL BE ADDED THE Tale of Mylty; or AMELO LORAME. ADMITTANCE—Box one Dollar, Pitt three quarters of a Dollar. Tickets to be had at Mr. McLaughlin's tavern, George-Town, at the office of the Washington Federalist, at the Theatre, and at A. & G. Way's Printing-Office. Doors to be opened at half past FIVE, and the performance to commence at half past SIX o'clock.
Twenty Dollars Reward. AARON, a mulatto man about 43 years old, left the city of Washington early in October, and was seen on the road leading from Alexandria to Leesburg in company with a black woman, who I am informed is the property of some person in the vicinity of this place. He is about 5 feet 10 inches high, has a fair hair, very bald in one of his eyes (I think it is the left) near his nose there is an incanted scar occasioned by a stroke he received, which fractured the bone in that place, and whenever he has it in his power never fails to drink to excess. It is probable that he has gone to Jefferson or Berkeley county in Virginia, where he formerly resided, and from thence will endeavor to go to Kentucky. The above reward will be paid to any person who will have him committed to jail, and give information thereof to the subscriber in George Town, district of Columbia. EDWARD GANTT. Nov. 11—tf
Five Dollars Reward. Stolen or Strayed from the Little FALLS of the Potomac on Saturday the 19th October, a dark bay HORSE, eight years old, 15 hands high, stout built, a star in his forehead, his mane cut for the collar and bridle; has a strong bushy tail the end cut off, some saddle marks, branded with a horse shoe on his off buttock, not perceivable unless wet, a split in his near fore hoof. Whoever delivers the aforesaid horse to Wm. McNair at the Little Falls, or to the subscriber in George Town shall have the above reward, with reasonable charges. JOHN GLASCO. Nov. 8 gt
ELIS A RIGGS, Has imported by the ships Wm. Murdoch and Enterprise from London, and the United States, Newton, and Abacona from Liverpool, eighty-nine PACKAGES of Seasonable Goods, which he bought of the manufacturers principally for cash, will be sold much lower by the piece or retail, than any not imported direct to this place, for cash or in exchange for tobacco. Among them are, 9 Bales superfine, and second clothes and coatings, 29 do. plains, kerseys, cottons and blankets, 8 do. flannels, carpets and bookings, 10 trunks, c. intzs., railcoats and hosiery, 5 do. cambric muffs and umbrellas, 8 cases London hats, 3 do. ladies' awkesbury bonnets, 1 trunk lace shades, black laces and veils, 1 case damask and diaper table cloths and ticking. 6 cases knives and forks, buttons, saddlery, seine twine, &c. 3 cases shirting cambrics, dimities and cotton counterpanes, Also, Silk hosiery, Chambra muffs, Irish linens, Gloves, hatters trimmings, Silk shawls, furniture trimmings, and many other articles. George Town, Oct. 30—tawtJa
100 Dollars Reward. RAN AWAY from the subscriber on the night of the 21 inst. two negro fellows Gerard and Peter—Gerard is about 22 years of age, 5 feet 10 inches high, complexion not very dark, has very thick lips, stoops in his walk, is remarkably knock-kneed, and his ankles are very large, and have the appearance of being much swollen—he is by trade a black-smith, and extremely awkward at any other work. Peter is about the same age, about 6 feet high, complexion rather light, long wool, walks very erect, is a very plausible fellow, and will no doubt endeavor to pass himself as a free man. The cloths they wore and carried off are not known, but it is supposed they will appear better dressed than negroes commonly do, as they left all their common cloaths at home. If found out of the state, the above reward will be given, if found in the state 40 dollars, and if in the county 20 or one half for either. WILLIAM ALEXANDER. Prince William county, Vir. Nov. 6—tf
HISTORY Of the West Indies: A WORK in the content of which every citizen of America must be interested, whether devoted to business, or desirous of information through the medium of amusement. A new & revised edition of Mr. EDWARDS's History of the West Indies, with a third volume, (completed by his amiable author a short time previous to his death) has lately been published in London. This third volume contains the interesting and important history, with a large Map of the island of St. Domingo, or Hispaniola, as also that of Tobago; likewise a history of the war in the West Indies from its commencement in 1733 and a tour of it William Young through several of the islands. It is accompanied by a highly finished portrait of Mr. Edwards, a history of his life written by himself, and a prefatory advertisement by Mr. William Young, Baronet, M. P. F. R. S. &c. under whose editorship it has been given to the public. The subscriber, impressed with a sense of the great importance a general knowledge of the history, civil and commercial, of the West Indies, must be to every citizen of America and of the great celebrity of the above work, proposes to print it by subscription, and respectfully offers the following for public patronage and encouragement.
Proposals for Printing, From the London copy, 3 volumes quarto, THE HISTORY, CIVIL AND COMMERCIAL, Of the British Colonies in the West Indies. BY BRYAN EDWARDS, ESQ. F. R. S. &c. Containing, with a variety of other matter: A political and topographical survey of the sugar islands. A comprehensive account of the ancient and present inhabitants, agriculture, productions, laws, government, constitution and commerce. An historical review of the slave trade; including observations on the character, genius, dispositions, and situations of the enslaved Africans. An historical review of St. Domingo, comprehending an account of the former government of the French part of that island, its political state, populations, productions and exports; a narrative of the calamities which have desolated the island ever since the year 1789; and a detail of the transactions of the British army in that island. Also, a tour through the islands of Barbadoes, St. Vincent, Antigua, Tobago and Grenada, by Sir William Young, Baronet, &c. And A history of the war in the West Indies from its commencement in 1733, &c. &c.
CONDITIONS. It will be printed in four volumes, large octavo, on a perfectly new and beautiful type, and on a handsome large medium paper, agreeable to a specimen which may be had at the subscriber's Book Store. The price to subscribers to be three dollars the volume, in boards; each volume to be paid for on delivery. With the last volume will be given an ATLAS, (without any additional price) containing the following maps: 1 A large general map of the West Indies, & Map of Jamaica. 2 Barbadoes. 3 Grenada. 4 St. Vincent. 5 Dominica. 6 St. Christopher. 7 Nevis. 8 Antigua. 9 Virgin Islands. 10 St. Domingo, or Hispaniola. 11 Tobago. To prevent disappointment or complaint, it is now promised, that on the publication of the second volume the subscription price will be advanced to three dollars and a half the volume, and on the publication of the last volume the price will be again enhanced. With the last volume, besides the Atlas, will be given an elegant engraving of the celebrated author. Also a list of the subscribers names. The London copy of the foregoing work in three volumes cannot be sold in America, in boards, under sixty dollars. JAMES HUMPHREYS.
Subscriptions are received by said Humphreys at his book-store the corner of Second and Walnut streets, and by the principal Booksellers through the Union. Philadelphia, July 15—
FOR SALE, A TWO STORY BRICK HOUSE and LOT in the city of Washington, situated on the Pennsylvania avenue near the Centre Market, and next door to Mr. Duane's book store, now leased to Mr. Solomon Myers for three years and occupied by him as a tavern. This property will be sold considerably below the first cost, and the payments made easy. For terms apply to the subscriber next door to Mr. Way's Printing Office. WILLIAM WOODWARD. September 23—2awtf

Ten Dollars Reward. DEFEATED from on board the United States frigate United States in ordinary, on the night of the 23rd inst. a negro man who calls himself DAYMAN, about 5 feet 8 inches high and smooth face. Whoever will apprehend said negro and bring him to the Navy Yard shall receive the above reward and reasonable expenses. J. CASSIN. November 6—3t
WASHINGTON TONTINE. SUBSCRIBERS to this Institution who have not fixed the lives on which they choose their stock to depend, will please to take notice, that it cannot be done after the 31st day of December ensuing; the constitution providing, that after that day, there can be no change of lives. Written directions on this subject, sent to the subscriber in season, will be duly attended to. BEN: STODDERT. October 16—eptDec.
Ten Dollars Reward. WAS missed on Sunday, the 5th of May a double cased silver Watch, maker's name Grothwaite, Dublin, and in the outer case was a watch paper with Mr. Parker's name of Philadelphia. Whoever will bring the said watch to the office of the National Intelligencer, shall receive the above $10, and no questions will be asked. Mayto—tf
WILLIAM S. NICHOLLS, HAS just received a large and handsome assortment of FINE & WINNER GOODS, consisting of Superfine Cloths and Cassimeres, Second do. Rote and striped Blankets, Kersey and Hothicks, Red, Blue and Green Bockings, Fancies, Balzes, Fancy Cords, Velvets and Velourcens, Calicos and Chintzes, White and Colored Cambrics, Bennetts Cord and Swansdown Wallcotings, Durants and Cashmerees, Hosiery of every kind, Dimities, London Hats, Umbrellas, German and Irish Linens, India Mullins, Carpeting & Coatings, with many articles in the fancy line, which he will sell on the lowest terms for cash. George Town, Oct. 23—3w
On a liberal credit. THE subscriber will dispose of at private sale, his estate called Grueber, lying on the eastern branch, immediate proximity to the city of Washington. This tract of land containing 697 acres is laid off in lots from 83 to 144 acres for the convenience of purchasers. Plats of the estate and the terms of sale are in the hands of Colonel Stanton at the navy yard, and Charles Wayman of George Town. The lots will be shown by Mr. Wedden, living on the premises, near the Eastern Branch bridge. ANTHONY ADDISON. Barnaby. 12th June 1805—tf
STELL'S HOTEL & CITY TAVERN. THE Subscriber takes this method of thanking his friends and the public for their favors whilst on the Capitol Square and begs leave to acquaint them that having purchased and now occupying the tavern, late Tunnicliffe's hotel; which he has commenced enlarging and improving—he respectfully solicits a continuance of the patronage of his friends and the public, assuring them that 'tis his full determination to fit up his present hotel, and to conduct it as to merit the preference of the public traveling, as well as those coming to the permanent seat of the Government of our Land of Liberty. PORTIUS D. STELL. Washington City, March 25—tf
WASHINGTON ACADEMY. Two PRINCIPAL TEACHERS are wanted in the Academy at the City of Washington, to be opened on the first Monday of January next. They must be qualified to teach reading, writing, the English and Latin languages, geography and the mathematics. Each Principal Teacher to receive five hundred dollars per annum, payable quarterly, for which he is to instruct such poor scholars as may be sent by the Board of Trustees, provided their whole instruction shall not exceed one hundred and twenty quarters in each year; & likewise to receive the entire amount of the tuition money for pay scholars at the rate of five dollars a quarter until the number amount to fifty, and beyond that number as shall be fixed by the Board. Out of this compensation he is to pay for necessary assistants, the rent of the school rooms, and other incidental expenses. Applications will be received until the first Monday in December next at the City of Washington by WASHINGTON BOYCE, Secretary of the Board of Trustees, or by
GABRIEL DUVAL, A committee SAMUEL H. SMITH, appointed for WILLIAM CRANCH, purpose. Elders friendly to the advancement of Education, are requested to insert the above advertisement a few times.
This day is published AND FOR SALE BY RAPINE, CONRAD & Co. IN NEW JERSEY AVENUE, CAPITOL HILL. FLEETWOOD; Or the New Man of Feeling, BY WILLIAM GODWIN, Author of Caleb Williams, St. Leon, &c. &c. price 175 cents. Sept. 25.
NOTICE to Delinquent Subscribers to the THEATRE. ALL Subscribers to the Theatre, who have not made full payments on their shares, or contributed the materials and work promised, are hereby notified that unless the same be done on or before the first day of December next, their shares will be forfeited; after which day certificates of stock will be issued to those subscribers who have complied with the terms of subscription on application to the Directors. ROBERT ERENT, } Directors. WILLIAM ERENT, } SAMUEL H. SMITH, } Sept. 4—tf
To be Sold, WILL be sold at public sale on the 16th day of December next, if fair, if not the next fair day, at the dwelling house of the late James Weems, of Calvert county, deceased, all the Stock, Furniture, Plate, and several valuable negroes, the property of the deceased. Cash for all sums not exceeding 20 dollars, and for all sums above that, a credit of six months will be given. Bonds with approved security will be required. NATHL. T. WEEMS Adm'r. October 25—cpw&wdf
PROPOSALS. WILLING to engage the favor and patronage of a liberal public in general, as well as to obtain the approving voice of intelligent and delegated characters in the various parts of the Union, who are about specially to convene at the National seat of Government, for the purpose of promoting extensive good and individual felicity, the subsequent proposals are, in the intermediate, respectfully submitted.
PROPOSALS FOR PRINTING A PHILOSOPHIC WORK, Entitled THE NATURE & STATE OF MAN AS CONNECTED WITH THE WORLD, AND WITH DEITY, In the GOVERNMENT of the UNIVERSE.
IF What Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero of old, and other renowned characters of modern date have condescended to unfold only in parts, is here freely investigated, and the contents of the volume offered may be said to embrace these interesting particulars, viz. Deity, the World, Man, Orders, simultaneous and successive evils, natural, moral, political and religious governments, free and despotic Laws and Religions, pure and spurious Revolutions, changes, causes and effects, as awfully manifested in the dynasty of the old world, and strikingly admonitory to the happy people of the new, who compose the large family of the great American Republic, and to whom this work is affectionately dedicated.
CONDITIONS. 1. It shall be printed on the best paper, and with a good type, neatly bound and lettered, price ONE DOLLAR. 2. It shall be put to press with all convenient speed, and as soon as a prospect of remuneration can be ascertained from a generous public—The preface will give a review of the Author, and his motives for solicitation and encouragement; and though a small star in the republic of Letters, yet visible, and approximating to a more brilliant constellation, when the luminous sun of Truth and Light will arise in meridian lustre, and dispel the mist of error and the clouds of darkness. Signatures will be received at the office of the National Intelligencer, the book stores in Washington, Georgetown and Alexandria, where printed proposals will be duly deposited.
WASHINGTON TONTINE. THE Subscriber, appointed by the Directors, agent for the sale of lots belonging to this institution has opened an office for that purpose in the third house from the west end of the Six Buildings, where he will attend every day from 3 to 5 o'clock in the afternoon.
The Lots are generally situate between George Town and the President's Square, between that square and the Capitol, and a out the Navy Yard and amongst them there are some water lots, equal to any in the city. The terms of sale, cash, or short or long credit to suit purchasers; but in cases of credit the principal payment of annual interest, and of the principal at the period stipulated must be well secured. If this be done to satisfaction, the purchasers may almost name their own time of credit. JOSEPH FORREST. October 16—td
District of Columbia, Washington Court, to wit. ON the petition of MARY BULL an insolvent debtor confined in the prison of Washington county for debt. Notice is hereby given to the creditor of the said Mary Bull that on Monday the 11th November instant, at the court room in the Capitol at 10 o'clock. M the oath prescribed by the act of Congress entitled, "an act for the relief of insolvent debtors in the district of Columbia," will be administered to the said Mary Bull, and a trustee appointed unless sufficient cause be then and there shown to the contrary. It is ordered that this notice be published in the National Intelligencer three times prior to the said 11th instant. By order of the hon. J. Kity WM. BRANT, CLK. Nov. 4—3t.
CHARLES H. VARDEN, MERCHANT TAYLOR. Has received from Philadelphia a handsome assortment of FALL goods, consisting of the best London and French superfine cloths, cassimeres, patent Bennet's cord, toilenettes, fancy and white Marcellas, black and figured silk, moleskins, fancy silk, Marcellas, constitution cords, velvets, Genoa cord, silk and linen Florentine, superfine coating, knapped cloths, with a variety of other articles suitable for the winter season. N. B. Ladies habits, regimentals, and navy uniforms made in the best style of fashion. New Jersey avenue near the Capitol, December 10—tf
PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE AND MYER'S CITY TAVERN.
THE Subscriber respectfully acquaints his friends and the public in general that he has removed from his old tavern stand, to the adjoining houses on the Pennsylvania avenue, lately occupied by Mrs. Vinton as a boarding-house, and Mr. Woodward's tavern, in which he is now opening a Complete Hotel. This stand is probably not excelled by any in the city, either for the accommodation of travellers or boarders; being at a convenient and almost equal distance from the Capitol, the President's House, and Public Offices; near the Theatre, Goffs, Way's Printing Office, and Centre Market, opposite the office of the National Intelligencer, and adjoining Mr. Duane's book store. These houses contain twenty six lodging rooms with five places, exclusive of dining, bar, assembly, and coffee rooms, servants apartments, &c. The celebrated ridge spring is conveyed in pipes to the yard of this hotel, where it supplies the whole neighborhood with flowing, cool water, to which the general health of this part of the city has in a great measure been attributed. He flatters himself now erected is considerable; more however will be completed before the meeting of Congress.
I now beg leave to inform my friends with confidence, that my prices shall be as heretofore, corresponding with Pennsylvania tavern rates, and in proportion as my elbow room has increased my disposition to please shall be enlarged; I therefore respectfully hope the continuance of a share of the public patronage. SOLOMON MYER. Washington July 24—tf Independence the 30th year—tf
1500 DOLLARS REWARD. HIGHWAY ROBBERY.
YESTERDAY about 11 o'clock in the forenoon, Mr. JOHN PETER, an Officer of the BANK OF COLUMBIA, was stopped on horseback on the road between this town and Alexandria, and within about 2 miles of the latter place, by some unknown villain, shot through the body with a pistol, and robbed of a sum of money in his possession belonging to this institution which he was taking to Alexandria, for the purpose of exchanging with the banks there. The whole sum taken amounted Eighteen Thousand One hundred and Fourteen Dollars and Sixty five Cents, made up in several packages, among which were,
  1 post note of the Bank of Virginia, Dol. C   for 800   1 do. of the same, for 500   1 do. of the same, for 500   1 do. of the same, for 450   1 do. of the Bank of Potomac in or of Joseph Ridde by him endorsed to Washington Bowie, dated 6 July, 1805 No 117 149 05 
A check of the Union Bank, on the Bank of Alexandria drawn by R. Higginbotham, cashier, in favor of Grueber and Deversen, by them endorsed and by Benj Stoddert, and C. Smith, clerks. There were also a parcel of post notes of the Bank of Alexandria for 100 dollars, and for 50 dollars each. The remainder was in current notes, principally of the banks of Alexandria and Potomac, and some few of the Bank of Virginia of different sizes and denominations.
As the attack was sudden, and the wound received of a nature to deprive Mr. Peter instantly of his senses, (although it is now hoped he will recover) the description obtained may not be very accurate—so far as we are informed the man who perpetrated the act, is of middle stature, good countenance, and had a genteel appearance. He had on a dark blue or black coat, nankeen pantaloons, shoes, and a black hat, he was on foot and alone at the time, but may have had accomplices concealed, and will probably charge his clothes.
FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS will be given to any person or persons, who will detect and bring to conviction the robber; and ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS additional for the recovery of the whole of the money, or in proportion for any smaller sum recovered—should there be accomplices, and one of them make a discovery, so that it leads to the conviction of the robber, or to the recovery of the money he shall receive the above reward, and interest will be made to obtain his pardon.
WILLIAM WHANN, Cashier of the Bank of Columbia. George Town, July 31—
City of Washington, Sept. 9, 1805. Several persons under the impression that the public lots in this city are to be disposed of in future by public sales only, having made enquiries when the next sale will probably take place, we are requested to state that those lots may at any time be purchased at private sale of the Superintendent of the City.
ONE THOUSAND ACRES OF VALUABLE LAND. To be Sold at Public Sale on the 7th day of November next at Robb's tavern Montgomery Court House 1000 acres of Land, part of Bradford's Rest—there is on the tract 200 acres of wood land—the rest is cleared, the whole well watered, the soil naturally fertile and favorable to tobacco, wheat, and corn, and admirably adapted to the use of Planter—a considerable portion of meadow may be easily made; it is distant four miles from the Court House of Montgomery county and about 14 from the city of Washington. It will be sold a great bargain, one 4th of the purchase money down, the residue in three equal annual instalments with interest. The title is unquestionable, and a deed with general warranty will be given on payment of the purchase money. JOHN RONSEY PLATER. October 4—taw6w
Twenty Dollars Reward. WILL be given for apprehending NIM, a small matted fellow, about 5 feet 4 inches and a half high, active and well made, 22 or 23 years of age, tho' perhaps of an appearance more youthful, and cunning, and artful in the extreme. His features are regular, and the expression of his countenance agreeable—his thumbs are short and unusually thick at the ends—he is an excellent coachman and officer, having done little else than attend to horses for many years. He carried with him a short blue cloth coat, corduroy pantaloons, and a red great coat, and many other articles of clothing in a pair of black faddle bags. The above reward will be given for securing him in jail. JOHN COLES. Albemarle county, Virg. Nov 1—
KING'S HOTEL. The subscriber begs leave to inform his friends and the public generally, that he has removed from the Navy Yard to the Capitol Hill, in the hotel lately occupied by Mr. F. D. Stelle, where he hopes to be favoured with a part of their patronage. It being a desirable situation, and the conveniences of the hotel excelled by none in the city. He therefore hopes to please those that call upon him in every instance. WILLIAM R. KING. August 30—tf.
For Sale IN the county of Prince William, Virginia, Negro Farm and its appurtenances, with four or five thousand acres of land adjoining, near the town of Dumfries, and within four or five miles of the Potomac—the soil is generally adapted to small grain, and if too considerable for one purchaser, will be laid off in Lots suitable for small farms—a description of the land is thought unnecessary—as those wishing to purchase will no doubt first view it: the payments required will be one third cash, and the other two thirds in annual instalment, to be secured by a mortgage on the land; and no deed given until the last payment is made; any person wishing to purchase, may know the terms by applying to Mr. Thomas T. Page, living near the premises, who is fully authorised by me to sell the whole or any part. JOHN TAYLOR. August 10—3m. N. B. A valuable mine bank in Maryland may be had with the farm if required. J. T.
VALUABLE ESTABLISHMENT FOR SALE. THE subscriber being anxious to retire from business, offers for sale the OFFICE and ESTABLISHMENT of THE REPUBLICAN. The situation is well worthy the attention of a printer wishing to carry on the business with a certainty of gain. The present annual income of the office is between 4 and 5000 dollars; and a person of industry and perseverance might add considerably to the emoluments. In addition to this, the flourishing state of the town of Petersburg, and there being but two printing-offices in the place, point out the certain prospect of a great increase of printing business, and that of the most profitable kind. The terms of sale will be so accommodating as to enable any person of prudence and economy to pay the purchase money from the profits of the office; and as the subscriber is determined to quit all business (if a sale can be effected) the price will be less than any similar establishment was ever sold for—being willing to take little more than the actual cost of the materials. It will no doubt appear surprising to many persons that any one at any time of life should wish to relinquish so advantageous a situation. To such I can only observe, that though young in years I am old in misfortunes; and that they have been of such a nature as to produce a determination to spend the remainder of my days in some sequestered spot, without any wish of ever being heard of again. I have a sufficiency to enable me to do this; and there is no person now, who has any claim upon my exertions. But notwithstanding these considerations, should a sale not take place prior to the first November next, the duty which I owe to my patrons will induce me to decline all thoughts of selling after that period. In the mean time, I shall be glad to receive the favors of my friends and the public as usual. Further information may be had on application, either personally or by letter, (postage paid.) THOMAS FIELD. Petersburg, Va. 4th Oct. 1805. * In the short space of one year and nine months, death has snatched from me two amiable consorts (both in the bloom of youth) and three children.
SULLIVAN'S LECTURES, PROPOSALS By THOMAS B. WALL & Co. FOR PRINTING, BY SUBSCRIPTION, AN HISTORICAL TREATISE ON THE FEUDAL LAW, AND THE CONSTITUTION AND LAWS OF ENGLAND; With a Commentary on Magna Charta , and Illustrations of many of the English Statutes. BY THE LATE FRANCIS STOUGHTON SULLIVAN, L. L. D. Royal Professor of Common Law in the University of Dublin. To which authorities are added, and a Discourse is prefixed, concerning the Laws and Government of England. BY GILBERT STUART, L. L. D.
THE Lectures of Professor Sullivan, delivered to the students in the University of Dublin, are in very high repute among all Lawyers of eminence, and have been uniformly recommended as an elementary book to those young gentlemen who begin the study of Law with a view to render themselves respectable in the profession. However obsolescent feudal policy may now seem to be, it having gradually disappeared as mankind grew more civilized and become better acquainted with their natural and inalienable rights and privileges; yet a research into the history of the government of jurisprudence of the nations of Europe, will satisfy anyone, that many consequences of that system still exist and influence the opinions and decisions of the highest and most enlightened tribunals of justice. Every author who has undertaken to give a regular and systematic account of the rise and progress of modern nations, has felt himself obliged to resort to the history of feudal rights, as the fundamental principle from which all existing civil and political institutions have taken their rise; and every jurist who has employed himself in explaining the constitution and laws of his country, has gone to the same source for the correct materials of his essays and dissertations. Robertson, in his history of the Emperor Charles V. has with great beauty and perspicuity illustrated much of the feudal policy as was necessary to enable the scientific reader to understand that valuable book; and Sir Wm Blackstone has in the course of his commentaries, led the student to a contemplation of the ancient tenures, many of which depend upon the doctrine of feudal rights, established in England by the Norman conqueror. But in both those invaluable productions, the feudal policy was adverted to, only as incidental to the principal object of the author, and therefore cannot be supposed to furnish complete and satisfactory accounts, as would be given by a distinguished lawyer as professor Sullivan who deduces the great purpose of his lecture to be the full discussion of the subject, which was of necessity but partially considered by the other writers.
This work has become so scarce in this country, as to be seldom seen even on the shelves of a professed lawyer; a fact to be regretted for only by the difficulty of obtaining the book: for it cannot well be supposed that a yoke of the profession, who has higher views than the mere pecuniary advantages of the practice, would willingly neglect an enquiry into those ancient institutions, upon which, notwithstanding the lapse of ages, much modern improvements are founded. But it is not to the profession alone, that this book may be considered useful. In this rising empire, where political knowledge to a certain degree is aimed at all, and equally possessed by many; a book which so lucidly and so judiciously brings to view the laws, institutions, manners and customs of those nations from which our English ancestors descended, must be peculiarly useful as it will enable young politicians to trace at our civil regulations to their source, and thus to account methodically and scientifically for many modern usages and practices, of which their knowledge is extremely superficial. In this book they will see how our ancestors struggled for the establishment of those privileges which artful monarchs and a proud nobility were continually attempting to destroy; and they will also learn that the perfecting industry of the people, aided by the wealth which their skill and enterprise brought into the country, finally obtained a complete victory in the establishment of principles and customs, which, transplanted into America by our progenitors, terminated in those glorious conditions which distinguish the people of America, for liberty and happiness, from every other people on the earth.
CONDITIONS. The work shall be elegantly printed, in two octavo volumes on five good paper, with a new and beautiful type. It will be delivered to Subscribers, bound in calf, at Five Dollars; and in boards, at Four Dollars—To non-subscribers the price will be enhanced. No money will be required till the delivery of the work. Those who subscribe for ten sets shall have one gratis. To Booksellers the usual allowance will be made. Portland, June 24— The above work will be printed from a correct London Edition—The few copies of an Irish Edition now circulating in this country are considered by the first law characters as extremely incorrect, and not to be relied on by historical authority.