Alexandria advertiser and commercial intelligencer (Alexandria [Va.]), 1801-02-13 00:00:00

Liverpool Salt for Sale.
Just landing from on board the ship Success, Capt. King, STOVED SALT , in sacks and bulk. Also, a few hundred bushels of Liverpool Coal . Wm. I. HALL. Merchants' Wharf, Jan. 29. d
Agreeable to a Deed of Trust, from Capt. John Hawkins, of Fauquier County, to the subscribers, WILL BE SOLD on the premises, to the highest bidder, for ready money, on Wednesday the 25th of February next,
The Plantation whereon the said Hawkins now lives: containing about 670 acres, lying within 30 miles of Fredericksburg, Falmouth and Dumfries, and within about 40 of Alexandria, George-Town and the Federal City.
It is thought unnecessary to be particular as to the quality and improvements, as a person inclined to purchase will no doubt view the same before the day of sale.
DUNBAR & VASS. Falmouth, Virginia, } d21(31) Jan. 20, 1800. }
A Wet Nurse Wanted.
A HEALTHY young woman, who can be well recommended, and who will undertake to suckle a child at the parent's house, will meet with liberal encouragement, by applying to the printers hereof. George-Town, February 9. 3t
For Rent.
The subscriber will lease or rent his commodious fire-proof Bake and Dwelling House , on Town-Point, where he now lives, with three Ovens, a good Store-house and Stable for two horses, with a well enclosed Wood-Yard, and every other convenience for carrying on the baking business to advantage.
JAMES DICKINSON. Norfolk, Jan. 8. d12(30)
LANDING
From the Schooner Mississippi, Best London particular Madeira Wine in pipes, Lisbon Wine of a superior quality in hhds. and quarter casks, Turk's Island and Isle of May SALT .
On hand, a few casks of excellent Chewing Tobacco . For CHARTER the above Schooner, Mississippi . Apply to Wm. I. HALL. Merchants' wharf, Feb. 9. d
For Liverpool.
The Ship POLLY , Capt. SAM. HANCOCK , will take FREIGHT for Liverpool. Terms may be known by enquiring of R. T. HOOE & Co. January 16. d
Public Sale.
On TUESDAY at 100 o'clock, will be sold at the Vendue-Store, Brown Sugar in hhds. & bls. Loaf and Lump Sugar in lots, Teneriffe and Port Wine in pipes, half pipes and quarter casks, French Brandy in pipes, Whiskey in tierces and barrels, Hyson Tea in chests, Bohea Tea in chests, Figs in casks and frails, Raisins in do. do. Cordials in boxes, Soap and Candles in boxes, Cotton in bales, A quantity of Bacon, Tobacco in kegs, Nails in casks, Hardware assorted in boxes, &c. Also, a quantity of DRY GOODS .
Particulars of which will be made known previous to the sale. P. G. MARSTELLER, Auctioneer. February 9.
Sales by Auction.
On SATURDAY next, At ten o'clock, will be sold at the Auction Room on Union Street, Sugar in bls. Candles in boxes, Tobacco in kegs, Coffee in bags, Saltpetre in bags, Raisins in boxes, Grapes in jars, Almonds in bls. Oranges in boxes, Anchovies in kegs and boxes, Together with a variety of DRY GOODS , Among which are Wilton and Scotch Carpeting , striped and plain Coatings, Kerseys, Plains, Flannels, rose Blankets, Broadcloths, Kersymeres, worsted Hose, Durants, mens' fine Hats, Irish and German Linens, Humhums, Mullins, &c. HENRY & THOS. MOORE, Auctioneers. February 11.
Two active Lads, about 14 years of age, and of reputable connexions, would be taken as Apprentices at the office of the Advertiser.
Congress of the United States.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY, January 21.
SEDITION LAW.
(Debate continued.)
House in committee—Mr. Morris in the chair.
Mr. Otis said that when the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gallatin) who had last risen, contended that the law which the resolution intended to revive, provided for the punishment of opinions, as well as of actions, he spoke a language quite unintelligible to him. This sentiment had been often repeated, and he would test its soundness, by an appeal to the gentleman himself. Would that gentleman, however unfavourable his opinions may be of the administration of this country, consent to adopt any of the methods described in the act to express his censure? Would not he, or any other gentleman of his party, blush and be ashamed to publish a writing, false, scandalous and malicious? He presumed the answer must be affirmative. Yet that gentleman would not and did not hesitate to declare opinions, injurious to the government; he was not afraid to express any sentiments which he entertained upon this subject, without an idea of incurring the penalties of this act. This then, Mr. Otis contended, was a fair standard to try the meaning and extent of the provisions in this act, and to shew that they did not apply to matters of opinion. Cases indeed might possibly arise in which the mere forms of expressing opinions might be adopted as the disguise of an intended libel. A man might choose to think every thing that is infamous and atrocious, and to publish his thoughts without a fact to justify them. In other words, positive assertions might be conveyed under the assumed form of opinions, to evade the law. In these cases his cunning ought not to serve for his protection, but still the law did not restrain free investigation, nor even the most acrimonious censures of the measures of government, unless they are falsehoods direct, scandalous and malicious.
Mr. Otis professed his admiration at the dexterity with which the opponents of the resolution had contrived to shift the burden of proof from their own shoulders, to those of its friends, by leading them insensibly into a discussion of the original merits of the measure. He understood it to be an agreed point in the first stage of the debate, to waive all argument in relation to the constitutionality of the act, and simply to consider its expediency. But this ground is changed by degrees, and principles and arguments which have been frequently canvassed to the bottom, are once more brought into view. He did not however, feel it incumbent on him to follow gentlemen upon this ground. He would not at this time of day permit him-
self to be seduced into a new argument upon the constitutionality of the measure. It was sufficient for him, that on former occasions he had not shrunk from this discussion. It was sufficient for him, that a glance at the constitution demonstrated its powers to extend to all cases in law and equity, arising under the constitution, and that this word, law, intends the common law, without which whole phrases, as well as many technical terms contained in that instrument, must remain destitute of interpretation. But above all it was a sufficient answer on this occasion, that the wisdom of a former legislature, composed of a majority of the present members, after great deliberation, had adopted this law, as a safe-guard against the rapid progress of an unparalled licentiousness which threatened the subversion of the constitution. When it is considered, farther, that this house has in two instances affirmed the constitutionality of this most salutary law; once by rejecting a resolution to repeal it, and once by sanctioning the judgment of a court, in the case of the member from Vermont; was it reasonable to expect that a majority would be formed ready to abandon a doctrine to which they had with such solemnity subscribed their assent!
For these reasons (said Mr. Otis) we are acquitted from all obligation to justify the act upon the principles which gave it birth, and in my turn I call on gentlemen to prove the mischiefs and grievances which have sprung from it. Let them shew that it has been used as an instrument of oppression, and the scourge of innocence. Let them demonstrate its inexpediency from the practice that has arisen under it, and if they succeed in this attempt, then indeed with a good countenance they may call on us to rescind it.
What then are the mischievous consequences that have resulted from this act? What are the abuses which are incident to its operation?
Two arguments are principally relied on by the gentlemen from Virginia and Pennsylvania. They contend that there exists a moral incompetency in our federal courts to decide causes of this description with impartiality; and again they say with the gentleman from Maryland that the law has been executed with rigor.
But why are the judges of the federal courts disqualified to decide upon cases of this nature? It is answered that they owe their appointments to the president, and are naturally inclined to support the side that may be supposed most congenial with his feelings and interests. In vain we reply to this suggestion, that although the president appoints the judge, yet the tenure of his office is perfectly independent and his salary permanent. This is true, say gentlemen, but he may be a candidate for the office of chief justice or for a foreign mission. Now it happens unfortunately for this argument, that not one of the judges who has yet presided at a trial for a libel has been either prompted to

than that justice or sent upon a foreign mission. This species of reward must therefore be allowed to be a very precarious compensation for a violation of oaths and an abandonment of duty, Sir, arguments like these are a satire upon the nature of man, and his capacity to frame a constitution, when you have selected men of talents and tried integrity for judicial stations, and rendered them independent by ample salaries, you have done all that human prudence can devise and you have done enough.
With equal justice might it be pretended in the present case that our courts are not competent to try an action of debt where the President is interested, or an assault and battery upon his person, or a riot of combination to obstruct him in the discharge of his official duties. In these cases your judges would be equally liable to the influence of an unjust partiality, if such partiality could be presumed.
But the objection of incompetency extends not merely to the judges. The jurors are also disqualified for an impartial discharge of their duty. They are returned by the marshals, who are appointed by the President. I repeat, Sir, that this argument is unfortunate in the quarter whence it proceeds. It is in those parts of the union only where this law is obnoxious that the marshals have this power of returning jurors; a power derived from their state laws, which they may change at pleasure, and which the laws of the union do not affect.
Let us then advert, Mr. Chairman, to the cases which have been noticed as instances of the rigorous operation of this law. In the case alluded to by the gentleman from Virginia, it is said that the people of that state were astonished at the extraordinary proceedings of the presiding judge. But where the cause of the astonishment consisted, the gentleman does not explain. The question, however, is not whether that judge was singular, or even mistaken, in some of his opinions or rules of proceeding, but whether substantial justice was done on the trial. Will the gentleman tell us the people of that state consider the sentence unjust or the punishment severe? Do they accredit the charges contained in the book of that most infamous culprit? Will they countenance the atrocious falsehoods for which he was punished? I think too well of the people of Virginia, to believe this to be possible.
The case from Pennsylvania has been thoroughly sifted and explained by my friend from South Carolina, who was present at the trial. In regard to the other case of a member from Vermont, I forbear to make any remarks, the circumstances of it being recent and familiar to the recollection of the house. It was not my wish to allude to it. If that member enjoys the serenity of an approving conscience, it shall not be disturbed by me; but if on the other hand, past scenes are with him a source of pain and regret, I will not plant with my finger an additional thorn in his bosom.
We come now, Mr. Chairman, to the case of the Boston printer—to the poor, unhappy man, who died a martyr, and is now alive. Two persons of the same name were concerned in publishing the Boston Chronicle, one of them the ostensible owner and editor of the paper, the other the superintendent of the business. A very gross libel appeared in that paper, for which the editor was perhaps recognized
to answer, but was never brought to trial. He was in the last stage of a consumption, and was finally arrested, not by the marshal of the district, but by that grim messenger whose mandate strikes terror to the heart of the false and malicious libeler. He died in his own house; and peace to his ashes! The other party who conducted the business of the office was at length arraigned for the offence. But, Sir, not upon the sedition law, not in a court of the United States; but upon that good old wholesome common law, to which the people of our country cling as the charter of their most precious right; a law, Sir, by which we yet hope to preserve our religion, our morals, and our ancient habits. He was convicted, not by a jury returned by a marshal, but by the verdict of twelve honest men, chosen by lot from the whole town in which he dwells, and he was sentenced to imprisonment for a short period, I believe not more than two months, certainly not exceeding four. This, Mr. Chairman, is the case selected as an instance of the most cruel oppression of this law. This is the man who, until within a few hours, was thought, not only by the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Nicholson) but by a great majority of this house, to have perished in a prison under circumstances of aggravated wretchedness; and while many a patriotic heart beat high with indignation at this treatment, and many a pious symphony a hasting friend sang requiems to his departed spirit, this dead man had escaped from prison, was at his old trade again, and the groans of his press, under the new weight of new libels, echoed responses to the lamentations of his friends.
Sir, I dwell upon this case not with a view to triumph in the misstatement of the gentleman from Maryland, but to draw from it a strong and conclusive inference in favor of the act. What plainer evidence can you have to prove that these outrageous falsehoods do not merely waste their force upon the desert air? They sink deep into the minds of men in high stations, and bear directly upon the measures of this house and government. Can that gentleman, can any other honorable member of this house, distinguish what portion of the ingredients that form the combination of prejudices, which he may have conceived against the government, consists of such materials? And, Sir, when men in important public stations—men qualified for them by their talents—When minds to which all the avenues of intelligence are open, are exposed to all these delusions: what can you expect from the gaping and promiscuous crowd, who delight to swallow calumny! What from the sons of riot and intemperance and idleness, who cluster in the alleys and dram-shops of your cities! What from the more innocent but equally deluded yeomanry, among whose sequestered retreats these poisons are scattered by officious missionaries who prowl through the country disturbing the silence of the woods and tranquility of the cottage! can it be a subject of wonder that ordinary minds are agitated with a mighty ferment, when these tales are woven with such art, circulated with such industry, and repeated with such effrontery as to produce belief in men generally well informed! Under these circumstances do you wonder, Sir, that the fear of future danger should absorb the consciousness of actual security, and that men should be roused into active opposition to the best and mildest system of government. Sir, these consequences
are natural and in course, and accordingly you this day are a witness to them.—The men who framed and who for twelve years have nurtured the constitution; the men under whose administration our affairs have prospered, and our agriculture and commerce flourished beyond all former experience, are now driven from the helm and are succeeded by whom?—By those who, I hope, will do equal justice to the confidence of the people.
Mr. Chairman, I pity the blindness of that man who does not perceive that the press is the engine which is probably destined to overturn the government of this country. It has been instrumental indeed of the greatest benefits to mankind, by the destruction of systems founded in civil and religious tyranny, it but may be rendered not less formidable to governments which have the freedom and happiness of man for their basis. In no country was a more systematical and inveterate design to destroy a government by means of the press manifested, than it is in ours. There is nothing sacred in virtue, nor fair in character, nor endeared by services, which does not fall a prey to the insatiate fury of certain printers and their abettors. The immortal Washington has been charged with murder, and with speculating in the funds with the public money: the president of the United States has been accused of designs to change the constitution, to establish monarchy, and to maintain himself in place by an army: the late secretary of state has been represented as a peculator: the late secretary of the treasury, a man who is an ornament to his country, has been stigmatized as the felonious burner of public offices and records. No mercy has been observed in the violation of truth and decency; no character has escaped, unless protected by its own congenial infamy and baseness. Yet, Sir, these are offences which we have no power to punish! These are merely the feverish symptoms of liberty, which truth alone is sufficient to allay!
But we are told, Mr. Chairman, that under the new order of things, no use will be ever made of this law, and it is therefore superfluous to re-enact it; that the new administration will disdain to avail itself of its protection; and that such measures will be pursued for the preservation of harmony, as will secure us from the penal consequences of the common law, by depriving us of all cause of complaint. Sir, to this argument I reply, that if the law is to fall into disuse, no harm can result from its revival, and the anxiety of gentlemen is the more extraordinary. But when gentlemen promise us that this law will remain a dead letter, they can speak only for themselves as individuals. Hitherto, much greater rigor and keenness in prosecutions for libels, have been displayed by the party opposed to this law, than by its advocates. Look at the prosecutions, and menaces of prosecution in Pennsylvania. Reflect on the amount of Republican damages. The enormous sum of two thousand dollars was lately awarded for a libel, against a young printer, at the suit of a democratic republican. A judgment which I will venture to say will prove more oppressive than any adjudication under the sedition act. I learn from good authority that other prosecutions are pending, and others still threatened from the same quarter, so that no great reliance can be had upon the forbearance of gentlemen in this respect. I confess, Sir, however, it is with great pleasure I hear it announced by the gentleman from Virginia,
that great union of sentiment, and general harmony, will prevail under the new administration. I wish, however, he had condescended to be more explicit. Is the system adopted for the support of our public credit to be maintained? Without this there can be no harmony. Will an adherence be observed to the principles of a fair and impartial neutrality in the European contest? Is the navy, that bulwark of our nation, to be preserved and augmented? For without these things, there will be no safety, and of consequence no harmony; but if the gentleman will give us satisfactory assurances upon these topics, and a few others that might be mentioned; if in a word, the credit and the honour of the country, shall be preserved by the energy of government, we may yet hope for this desirable harmony.
The gentleman from Pennsylvania has reported the intimation that no advantage has resulted either to the administration or its friends from this law. But, Sir, if this were true, it would furnish no argument against the law itself. If it has not been enforced, the makers of it are not culpable for the omission. I believe, Sir, that very material benefits would have flown from it had ten prosecutions been instituted, where one has been instituted. Had three or four venal presses, set up with foreign money, and conducted by incendiary emigrants, been crushed and silenced. But although these have been tolerated by an abused and insulted people, and are still suffered to discharge their impurities, yet has the law been productive of important advantages. It has enabled us to rescue the constitution from misconstruction. It has established a high and binding precedent; it has developed principles essential to the security of all government, which opposition itself in a reason of returning moderation, and reflection will be compelled to acknowledge and adopt.
Sir, the gentleman from Pennsylvania contends that the prosecutions under this act, have been confined to men of one political sect, and mentions a pamphlet printed in New-York, as a libel which has been permitted to pass unnoticed by the magistrate. But there is a singular infelicity in the choice of this example; without giving any opinion upon the pamphlet alluded to, I will remind that gentleman, that whatever might have been the design of government, they were anticipated by the eagerness of democratic zeal. A certain Northumbrian apostle of liberty rode post to New-York to snatch the sedition-law from the hands of his friends, and to apply it with his own hands. To have interrupted him, in this promising pursuit would have furnished real cause for complaint, no other instance is quoted by the gentleman, but his proposition may be nearly correct. It is for libels upon government and its officers alone, that congress is authorized to provide a punishment—the state laws are competent to redress the injuries of individuals, and in Pennsylvania at least, no charge can be made of an indisposition to afford this redress.
Mr. Chairman I will not enlarge at this late hour upon the cases furnished by that gentleman's imagination, in which a failure of justice might happen through want of evidence or other means. In these, as in all other cases, where the best evidence is of necessity precluded, that which is next in the nature of things and in the power of the party, is permitted. I see nothing in the constitution or the law, or in the practice under the law, that should induce those who once supported it,

to desert it at this moment—the prospect of a war with France is more remote, but the temper of the times is not changed, nor the licentiousness of the press controuled—we may want this law as a coat of armour to defend us from persecution, and we should be willing to give to the new administration the means of protection that have been provided for their predecessors. For these reasons, my vote will be given in favor of the resolution.
(To be continued.)
BOSTON, February 3.
From unquestionable authority we are authorised to say, that judge Washington is writing the life of the Father of our Country. Many particulars, hitherto unknown, will be disclosed in this deeply interesting work, which will increase our admiration and love, even of Washington . A considerable time must elapse, before it will be given to the public.
On Friday last arrived at the Vineyard, schooner Succes , Thomas, St. Thomas, 22 days, bound to Boston. Sailed under convoy of the Merrimac , in company with sch'r Neptune , of Plymouth; a Salem ship and several other vessels which have arrived at the Vineyard, including the Merrimac . The French privateer, L'Amor de la Patrie , of 10 guns, prize to the U. S. sch'r Enterprize also sailed in company for New-York. Mr. Crosby who came passenger in the Succes , informs us that in lat. 50. long. 73. Jan. 19, they fell in with the sch'r Fifthhawk , Stetson, from Scituate. for North-Carolina, in distress, four feet water in the hold, from which they were unable to free her. By the goodness of capt. Thomas the captain and crew were taken on board the Succes .—She sunk soon after she was abandoned and nothing was preserved.
Mr. Crosby also informs us of the capture of the following vessels by the French: sch'r Nancy , Jones, of Baltimore; brig Favourite , Seabury, Rhode-Island; sch'r Sisters , Woodman, Philadelphia; Four Brothers, Eastman, Newburyport; Two Brothers, Lymburner, Boston; sloop Almira , Bartholomew, New-Haven; ship Hope , Bacon, Boston. The captains of these vessels were all in Guadalupe jail together, and were exchanged on the 1st of January.
SALEM, February 2.
Latest News from India!
Captain Joseph Ropes, who arrived at this port on Wednesday night last from India, has politely favored us with the following important intelligence: He visited Madras and Sumatra. He left Madras on the 30th of August, previously to which the expedition under Admiral Rayner, said to have been designed against Manila or Batavia, had been countermanded, and the troops and stores had been relanded from the transports, in consequence of very alarming disturbances in the Mysore Country , where an enterprising officer, formerly in the service of Tippoo Sultan, had collected an army, consisting of 30,000 men, and had surprised a fort which the English held in that country, and had destroyed every soul in the fort, supposed to be 1000 men. The capital of Mysore is near Seringapatam, and the country was part of the dominions that Hyder Ally shared with the Nabob of Arcot. It is 623 English miles from Bombay, 306 from Madras, and 1218 from Calcutta.
Captain Ropes arrived at the Cape of Good Hope in company with the British packet Apollo , and the captain of the packet informed him, that he left Madras on the 11 of September, and that the officer in the Mysore Country had had three engagements with the English army, in all of which the English had been successful. But that the officer of the late Tippoo still continued to recruit his forces, and was considered as a very formidable enemy.
The disturbances between the English and the Caffres, at the Cape of Good Hope still continue. Fifteen hundred English troops were out against the Caffres in the back country, when captain Ropes left the Cape.
NEW-YORK, February 7.
CLEARED,
Ships Reserve , Moncrief, Curracoa; Charleston , Hussey, Liverpool; Lydia , Treadwell, ditto; Brig American Hero , Martinique.
Ship Shepherds , in 8 days from Savannah, was below last evening.
American vessels at Kingston Jamaica, January 6.
Sch. Glide , Brooke, Haddin; Experiment , Cotton, Middleton; ship Cleopatra , Waterman, New-York, from New-Orleans, libelled; sch'r Fame , Hutchins, from Bermuda to New-York; Brig Pallas , Flag, Portsmouth; ship Harmony , Coffin, ditto; brig Sukeey , Brown, Salem, cargo condemned, vessel cleared; ship Experiment , N. York.
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 9.
Arrived—Sch'rs, Martha , Thompson, Passamaquoddy; Olive Branch , Young, Baltimore.
Cleared—Brig Reaver , Foster, Havana; Schooners, Ino , Ridge, Barbadoes; Worcester , Earl, Havana; Felix , Kenney, Cumana.
Brig Mercury , Yardley, of this port, taken into Halifax, has been condemned there, vessel and cargo, on the principle of citizenship.
Brig Pamela , Merrifew, captured and sent into Porto-Rico by the French, has been condemned there, vessel and cargo.
The Swanwick , Kirkbride, for Liverpool, brig Venus , Stephenson, for Hamburg and several other vessels went to sea on Friday last.
The American , Swain, for Liverpool, remains at the Fort—her letter-bag is at the Coffee-House.
An inward bound ship and sch'r are below, names unknown.
Brig Augustus , Lewis, from hence has arrived at Jamaica.
Sch'r Adventure , Lillebridge, of this port, hts arrived at Aux Cayes from C. Francois.
Sch'r Amity has arrived at the Cape.
Extract of a letter from Alexandria.
The mate of the brig Polly , Palmer, has arrived here, and informs, that the brig was taken by a French privateer, within 6 or 7 leagues of Barbadoes, and sent to Guadalupe, where she arrived after having been chased by a frigate which got among the rocks and could not follow her. We look for the captain in a few days.
An active lad will be taken as an Apprentice at this Office.
Alexandria Advertiser.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13.
At a meeting of the Corporation of the town of Alexandria, yesterday, George Taylor, Esq. was elected Mayor—Jonah Thompson, Esq. Recorder; and William Harper, David W. Scott, Thomas Vowell and George Slacum, Esqs. Aldermen.
The following appointments for the ensuing year were made:
Robert I. Taylor, Clerk of the Council.
Charles Turner, Collector.
Wm. Rhodes, Philip Wanton, } Assessors,
W. Rhodes, James McGuire, Philip Wanton, Archibald M'Lean, } Wardens,
J. & J. D. Weisecutt, Printers to the Corporation.
John Longden, Clerk of the Market, James Harris, keeper of the Powder-House.
Extract of a letter from an officer on board U. S. private President, dated St. Kitts, January 2, 1801.
"The United States sch'r Enterprize , capt. Sterrett, arrived here yesterday. She has had an action of one hour and a half with a French lugger, but owing to the darkness of the night the lugger escaped. capt. S. had only two wounded; Mr. Angus, midshipman, who was shot through the arm, and a marine."
From the following extract from an essay in the Providence Gazette, on the means of extinguishing fires, it would appear that at the late fire in that town, an attempt had been made to arrest its progress by blowing up buildings adjoining these on fire. The experiment does not appear to have met with success.
"Powder was employed to blow up several buildings, and these falling without injury to any person, should teach us that there is not the danger in exploding a cask of powder in an open chamber, which might have been apprehended. It may not be amiss here to mention my opinion, that blowing up the brick house rather hastened than checked the progress of the fire; and it is doubtful whether in such a town as this, which contains but few brick buildings, blowing up houses will be found useful on any future occasion. Had the wooden building adjoining the brick one been blown up, it might have had a better effect. I do not mention this to censure the conduct of any; it was a first experiment here."
A late London paper says—The trade expected to be opened with Persia, is likely to be very lucrative. That country (once the most flourishing and powerful in the world, though now little known beyond the route of travellers going to or coming from the East Indies) abounds in gold and silver mines, which have not been worked for a number of years, owing the want of fuel.
Repartee of a Convict.
The keeper of Newgate prison (Con.) lately inspecting some nails made by the convicts under his care, reprimanded one, by the name of O'Brian (an Irishman) for neglecting to make good heads to his nails, at the same time selecting one well execut-
ed, and presenting it to him, saying, "The heads were not all equally as good as that? The poor fellow, somewhat embarrassed, scratching his head, replied, "Why, fir, if all our heads had been made one as good as another, perhaps we should not all of us been here, good Major."
For Charleston, (S. C.)
The SCHOONER THETIS , Thomas White, Master, will positively sail on or before the 20th instant. She is intended as a constant trader from this port, and has good accommodations for passengers.
For Freight or Passage apply to the master on board, at Vowell's wharf, or to EDWARD RUSSELL.
Union-Street, Feb. 13. 3t
Washington Society.
The Members of the ALEXANDRIA WASHINGTON SOCIETY are hereby notified, that a regular stated meeting of the said Society will be held at Gadby's Hotel, on Monday the 23d instant, at 10 o'clock A. M. and it is earnestly requested that the members will be punctual in their attendance, as there is some necessary business to be transacted.
The Society will move in procession with such others as chuse to join, at 12 o'clock, from the Court-House square to the Presbyterian Meeting-House, where an Oration will be delivered by the Revd. Mr. Maffett, commemorative of the distinguished merits of the illustrious Washington.
The Society will dine together on that day, at Gadby's, agreeable to a resolution at the last quarterly meeting.
By order of the President.
G. DENEALE, Sec'y.
St. Andrew's Society.
THE Members of the Saint Andrew's Society are requested to attend a stated quarterly meeting at Gadby's Hotel, on Tuesday evening next, (17th instant) at 6 o'clock, P. M.
By order of the President.
Wm. BARTLEMAN, Sec.
February 12.
For Sale, or to be Leased,
In the City of Washington, and petition given immediately,
A handsome, well-finished three story BUILDING, on New-Jersey Avenue, in the vicinity of the Capitol, and the nearest dwelling on the south of it on Capitol Hill. The lot and house are well situated, and will always command an uninterrupted view of the whole city and George-Town to the west, as well as of the Potomac and Eastern Branch. The house contains 10 convenient rooms, exclusive of garret and cellars.
If sold, United States stock, or stock in any of the banks would be taken for the whole or part of the payment, and a good title given; or, if leased for 5 years, the terms would be accommodating to a good tenant.
Further particulars may be known by applying to Mr. Joseph Hodgson, in that city, or the subscriber in Baltimore.
MATHEW BROWN.
January 15.
co
Fresh Raisins.
Just received a few boxes of excellent Raisins, and for Sale, by
JOHN & J. TUCKER.
December 24.
co

The SLOOP ELIZA, ABEL WILLIS, Master; A Constant Packet.
Will sail on Sunday next. For Freight or Passage apply to the master on board, at Vowell's wharf.
February 10. eo3t
THE SUBSCRIBER
Respectfully informs the public, that finding it indispensably necessary to dissolve the copartnership of O'NEILL and WARD, in the Globe Tavern, of this town, he intends in future to conduct that house on his own account, under the name of the GOLDEN BALL , and declares no exertion on his part shall be wanting to give every person who may favor him with their commands entire satisfaction.
He requests all persons indebted to the above firm to be speedy in settling their accounts with him, as he alone is authorized to give a valid discharge for money due, or make any kind of settlement with them. He also requests the favor of all persons holding demands against O'Neill and Ward to render him their several demands, as he wishes to have them adjusted as soon as possible.
ENOCH WARD.
Jan. 15. (16) 3weo
Valuable Property for Sale.
SEVEN hundred and eighty-eight acres in the county of Hampshire, on the waters of Great Cape Capon, about 20 miles from the Warm Springs, and 30 from Winchester. This land is full of wood, oak and pine timber. Two excellent farms may be made, with 30 to 50 acres of bottom, and rich high lands to each; and in the heart of the timber there is a fine seat for a saw-mill. Capt. Daniel Rice will shew the lands.
Three thousand eight hundred and forty-five acres in the county of Ohio, on the waters of Grave and Fish Creeks, near the river Ohio, and about 80 miles below Pittsburg. Some of these lands are very good, with considerable quantities of rich bottom, and plenty of excellent timber. Robert Woods, Esq. the Surveyor of that county, will shew these lands.
One hundred seventy-six and three fourths acres, within three miles of the Warm Springs, upon Great Cape Capon, near its mouth, and within \frac{1}{4} of a mile of the River Potomak. This land has about 70 or 80 acres of rich bottom, mostly in cultivation, with 274 fine Sugar Trees on it; from which I am informed, there may be made 3000lb. of good sugar annually. There are also a seat for grist and saw mills on it, equal to any in that neighborhood, and upon a never failing stream of water. The upland is rich, with plenty of timber, and part under cultivation. This farm is well improved with a good orchard, houses and fencing, and rented last year for produce equal to sixty pounds per ann. Mr. Joseph Butler, at the Warm Springs, will shew it. I will sell all, or any of the above lands for cash or upon credit, or take in exchange for them lands in Fairfax County, or lots of land in the City of Alexandria, or the City of Washington.
R. T. HOOE.
January 15. eo
Printing in all its variety executed with neatness and dispatch.
To be Sold,
Four and a half years of an unexpired lease of a HOUSE and LOT , SITUATE on the lower part of Fair-fax-street, near James Patterson's property—the house has lately undergone a thorough repair, is pleasantly situated and convenient to good water. The title and terms may be known on application to JOSEPH WILLIAMS. February 6. eo3t
To be Rented,
And possession given immediately—A two story house and garden on Duke-street, about two squares to the eastward of the stone bridge.
W. HARTSHORNE.
A number of valuable lots in different situations, to be sold—also, a brick house in King-street, in the tenure of Thomas Cruse;—a part of the purchase money will be taken in Alexandria Bank shares at par, and for some of the lots, Alexandria Insurance shares at a price to be agreed on. For part of the purchase money of either, a liberal credit may be had. 1st Month 7th. eo
A Housekeeper wanted.
LIBERAL wages will be given to a discreet Woman, capable of managing the affairs of my family as a Housekeeper .—A middle aged woman of a mild disposition and regular deportment will be preferred, as part of her attention will be necessary in superintending a nursery of young children.
CHARLES LEE.
December 13, 1800. eodtf
Shreve and Janney,
Have for sale at their store, on Union-street, the following articles—
 24 barrels tanners oil  50 boxes Florence do.  20 do. Castile soap  60 do. dipt candles  30 do. mould do.  80 do. Havanna segars  60 barrels East & West-India sugars  Hyson, fuchong and bohea teas  4th proof Barcelona brandy  Writing and wrapping paper  China assorted in boxes  Russia duck and cordage  A variety of shoes and sole leather  A few bales of Gurrabs, and a few Pieces of handsome furniture. 
January 28. eo
Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria.
The Stockholders in this institution are hereby notified, that a dividend of five per cent. is this day declared on that part of the capital stock of the company which is now paid. Payable to the stockholders, or to their order, in ten days from this date.
By order of the President and Directors. J. B. NICKOLLS, Sec.
January 31. eo(2)
NOTICE.
All persons having claims against the estate of the late THOMAS PORTER , are requested to bring them forward on or before the first of March next, and those indebted to him are respectfully requested to make payment to SARAH PORTER, Adm'x. Jan. 1. (2)eo
An Apprentice wanted at this Office.
FOR SALE
By William Hartshorne, On Col. Hooe's wharf, James River Coal, Philadelphia loaf and lump Sugar, Hard Soap by the box, Also, a few boxes of crown or shaving Soap, Hay in bundles of about 200 weight, Flour, Bran and Shorts by the quantity, Tobacco in kegs.
Cash given for Wheat, Rye and Corn. 1st mo. 26. eo2m
The beautiful, thorough bred Colt O'KELLEY,
Imported by John Tayloe, Esq. now rising four years old, a beautiful bay, of fine bone and elegantly formed, and allowed by intelligent sportsmen to be of the first stock in England, which, by reference to the certificate given by the breeder will more fully appear, to wit:
I do hereby certify that the bay colt I this day sold to Mr. Thomas Reeves, merchant, was bred by me, and got by Arvil, his dam by Eclipse, grand dam by Blank, great grand dam by Old Snip, great, great grand dam by the Godolphin Arabian, out of Mr. Frampton's white necked mare. The dam of the above colt is own sister to Aurelius by Eclipse.
P. O'KELLEY.
The above mentioned horse will cover mares the ensuing season, the first three days in every week at Mr. Chas. Love's seat Salisbury, and the balance of the week at Seedley Farm, about five miles distant, at Fifteen and an Half Dollars the season, and Six Dollars the single leap, which may be discharged at any time during the season by the payment of twelve dollars and three shillings to the groom—Notes for fifteen dollars and an half, will be expected from those who send their mares. Mares coming from a distance can be pastured at 30 cents per week, and grain furnished them, if required, at the market price; every attention shall be paid them, but will not be answerable for accidents or escapes. The season will commence on the 10th of March next, and continue until the 10th of August.
ROBERT CARTER.
February 9. eo2m
ANTHONY SAWYER,
Hair Dresser and Perfumer, (lately from Baltimore) Lower end of King-street, near Ramsey's wharf,
Begs leave to inform the Ladies of Alexandria, and the country generally, that having received the newest fashion of Ladies' Wigs and Filets, he will be thankful to receive their orders for the above articles, and will warrant them equal to any manufactured on the continent.
N. B. Any Lady wishing to see his Patterns, may be accommodated by sending a servant to his shop.
He has for sale, every article in the Perfumery line, on the most reasonable terms.
Cash will be given for hair by the large or small quantity.
Boarding and Lodging
May be had for five or six gentlemen, by applying to JOHN GORDON, King Street. December 16. eo
Ricketts, Newton & Co.
Have just received and for Sale, at the corner store, opposite John Janney's, the following GOODS —wholesale and retail, for Cash and Produce:
Superfine and 2d Cloths
 Blue Plains  do. Frizes  do. Kerseys  White, yellow and green Flannels  do. do. do. Baizes  Rose and duffil Blankets  Durants, Camblets and Wildbores  Russels and Antiloons  Cotton and linen Checks  Kerseymeres and Swandowns  Velvets, Thicksets and Cords  A handsome assortment of Dimities  Mens' and Womens' cotton Hose  do. silk do.  Black Crape  White and black silk and beaver Gloves  Modes, Sattins and Persians  Sewing Silks  Calicoes and Chintzes  Russia Sheeting and Irish Linens. 
They have also,
Brown Sugar by the hhd. and barrel, loaf and lump do. and a quantity of Plaister of Paris.
They give Cash for
Wheat, Rye and Corn.
Left by capt. Mortimore, of the Baltimore packet, at their warehouse, sundry Mill Irons —The owner is requested to take them away.
January 31. d
LAST NOTICE.
Whereas a Commission of bankruptcy is awarded and issued forth against Elisha Cullen Dick , of the town of Alexandria, and he having surrendered himself to the major part of the commissioners named in the said commission, at the Washington tavern in Alexandria, on the 31st day of January last, when and where he underwent his second examination; he is therefore required again to attend at the said tavern, on Friday the 20th day of this present month, at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, to undergo his final examination, when and where the creditors of the said Elisha Cullen Dick , either in his separate capacity or as one of the firm of James Mease M'Rea and Company , may attend to prove their debts—at which time and place the creditors aforesaid are to assent to or dissent from the allowance of his certificate—and to choose assignees.
All persons indebted to the said bankrupt, or who may have any of his effects, are not to pay or deliver the same but to whom the Commissioners may appoint, but to give notice to
HENRY MOORE,
Secretary to the Commission.
February 3. d
An Accommodation Stage
Will leave Bailey's Ferry, opposite Alexandria, every morning at 9 o'clock, and return from Conrad and M'Munn's, City of Washington, at 5 o'clock in the evening. It will commence to-morrow morning.
February 9. eo3t
PRINTED BY
S. SNOWDEN & Co.
KING-STREET, a few doors above the WASHINGTON TAVERN.