The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1808-09-02 00:00:00

National Intelligencer.
WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VIII.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
NO. 1231.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM,
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 1808.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
CASE OF JOHN SMITH.
[Mr. Harper's Speech continued.]
I come next to that of Peter Taylor, and here I feel myself greatly relieved, in being able to absolve him from the guilt of wilful false swearing. His character is said to be fair, and for ought we know it is so. We are far from a wish to impeach it. But we shall show that in some of the minute circumstances which he relates, and which are adduced as grounds of suspicion against Mr. Smith, he probably mistakes; and that the others are satisfactorily explained.
In ascertaining what degree of credit is due to an honest witness, especially in relating after a considerable lapse of time minute facts, which derive their complexion from circumstances apparently trivial; it is proper, in the first place, to consider his education and habits of life, and to enquire how far they have a tendency to produce that accuracy and precision of conception and language, whereon the weight of such testimony almost wholly depends. Apply this rule to Peter Taylor. Admit him to be perfectly honest in his intentions. But we find him to be an illiterate labourer, sometimes employed as a menial servant. Such a man is likely enough to have a distinct perception, and an accurate recollection, of such facts as he is accustomed to observe. But when he speaks of things out of the usual tract of his business, his thoughts and his observation; when he attempts, at such a distance of time, to relate very minute facts, in which he could not have taken any interest at the time; I ask if we can implicitly rely on the clearness of his comprehension, or the exactness of his memory? Is it not highly probable that he may have misconceived at the time, or forgotten since, some of those circumstances, apparently minute, on which the character of the whole transaction frequently depends?
But if, in addition to this general reasoning, it should appear that the witness has, in relating other parts of this transaction, committed several mistakes, will it not be admitted that his recollection is too confused or imperfect, to command our confidence or influence our decisions? This is the case with Peter Taylor. In his testimony taken at Richmond, from which the part now used against Mr. Smith is extracted, he relates that in October 1806 Blannerhasset on their return from Kentucky, pressed him to join Col. Burr's expedition; and that he consented to go, provided he might take his wife and family, to which Blannerhasset did not consent. On his cross-examination he states, that his wife died in the September preceding. He also relates, in his direct testimony, that when the party left Blannerhasset's island, he saw Dudley Woodbridge on the bank. And it is proved by Woodbridge himself, and by Morris B. Beknap, that Woodbridge was at that time in bed, and was not on the bank at any time during that night. These are small mistakes, but they prove that Taylor's recollection of minute circumstances, such as those which he details concerning Mr. Smith, cannot be relied on.
The first of these circumstances is, that Mr. Smith, on being informed that he was a servant of Blannerhasset, asked him to go up stairs. This at first view might have a suspicious appearance, as if Mr. Smith wished to make or receive some communications which required privacy. But when we learn that Mr. Smith had his office up stairs, where he usually wrote, and that he wished to write a letter by Taylor, the mystery vanishes, and the circumstance stands fully explained.
But he wrote a letter to Col. Burr. No doubt, Mr. President, a letter from Mr. Smith to Col. Burr, at that time, has in itself a suspicious appearance. But we are made acquainted with the contents of the letter, and the suspicion disappears. Instead of being a criminal correspondence, concerning an enterprise in which they were mutually engaged, it is a letter informing Col. Burr of the suspicions afloat concerning his plans and movements, and requesting an explanation, for Smith's own satisfaction. Nothing could be more natural than such a step, on the part of Mr. Smith. Col.
Burr had long been his acquaintance and friend, and recently his guest. He could not therefore be indifferent, either on Col. Burr's account or his own, to the reports in circulation. These reports were founded on mysterious circumstances, which Mr. Smith supposed could be satisfactorily explained; and he wrote to obtain this explanation. No conduct could be more rational or more commendable. It was kind and candid towards his friend; and cautious towards himself.
The answer which he obtained was well calculated to quiet his alarms. His original letter is not in our power; but we have produced a copy of it. The answer, however, in the hand writing of Col. Burr, is now in my hand. This letter is no after thought; no subsequent contrivance for exhibition; for Mr. Broadwell has proved that he saw it delivered to Mr. Smith from the post office. Let it be attentively read; let the situation of Col. Burr and of Mr. Smith at that time be considered; and then let gentlemen candidly declare, whether they think that Mr. Smith, after receiving that letter, could regard Col. Burr in any other light, than that of an honorable man, indignantly repelling unfounded and injurious suspicions? [Here Mr. Harper produced the original letter, the hand writing and authenticity of which were recognised by several of the Senators.]
But Mr. Smith enquired anxiously about the news, in the part of the country from which Peter Taylor had come. And what more natural, what more usual, than to enquire the news, especially in a time of alarm and apprehension? The operations of Col. Burr were the subject of general conversation, and had excited no small alarm. The plot, whatever it was, appeared to thicken about Blannerhasset's island. Of course every one felt anxious to know what was going on at that place, & in its neighborhood. This circumstance then is of no moment, & the letter, the only ground of suspicion, being fully explained, every thing is explained, except the last fact stated by Taylor, on which I will now bestow some attention.
Taylor states that Mr. Smith offered him something to drink, and "charged him not to go to any tavern, lest the people should be sifting him with their questions." Sift him about what? Did Smith then suppose that Blannerhasset's gardener or servant was possessed of the secrets of the conspiracy which might be sifted out of him? Is it credible that so gross and absurd an idea could be entertained, by a man of his understanding? Had he used precautions to prevent Blannerhasset himself from being sifted, there would have been some sense in it; but to suppose him afraid of the gardener's being sifted, about things which if he knew them himself he must have been satisfied that the gardener could not know, is to impute to him more folly than those who charge him with a principal participation in Col. Burr's designs, would be willing to admit.
Will it be said that Smith was afraid of the gardener's being sifted, about the public occurrences in the island and its neighborhood, which a person in his situation might be supposed to know? I answer, why should he be so afraid? As those circumstances were notorious, the gardener could do no harm by telling them; and they would speedily be known at Cincinnati, whether he told them or not.
It is therefore impossible to suppose that Smith's wish to keep Peter Taylor away from the taverns, if he really had such a wish, proceeded from any fear of disclosures which Taylor might make. It is much more probable that Taylor, whose recollection we have already found to be very imperfect, or to whom these little circumstances could not then have appeared to be of any importance, has fallen into a mistake in relating them, than that John Smith did so foolish a thing. He might indeed caution Taylor not to go to a tavern; for fear that he should get engaged in drinking, and delay his time; a thing which he knew was very likely to happen, to a man in Taylor's situation: & it is possible that in order to keep him away, he endeavored to alarm about something that might happen to him at the tavern. This matter, floating confusedly in Taylor's
brain, has at last assumed the form of this story about sifting, which has found its way into his testimony and is now adduced to fix a charge of treason on John Smith.
And it is not a little surprising, if we are implicitly to believe Peter Taylor, that Mr. Smith, after having taken so much pains to keep him away from the taverns, for fear of his being sifted, should immediately have sent him to one, to get him horse fed; thus exposing him, for the value of a gallon of oats, to the very danger from which he had just appeared so anxious to guard him. "He then shewed me, says Taylor, a tavern, & told me to go, to get my horse fed by the hostler, but not to go into the house." Does not this prove that if Smith wished to keep Taylor out of the taverns, it was to preserve him from the temptation to get drunk and lose his time, and not to keep him out of the way of questions? Had the latter been his object, would he have sent this man to a tavern at all? Would he not have had the horse fed in his own stable, or sent him to the tavern by his own servant?
I here dismiss the story of Peter Taylor, Mr. President; presuming to believe that the only fact of any moment, the letter, is satisfactorily cleared up by the letter itself, and Col. Burr's answer; and that the other slight and trivial circumstances of suspicion are fully explained, or resolved into the confusion and inaccuracy of Taylor's recollection. Certainly facts so doubtful in themselves, so inconsiderable, so capable of being misunderstood by the witness, ought not to have any weight, in such a case as this.
The testimony of major John Riddle comes next to be considered, in which he states that Mr. Smith told him, that he knew more of Col. Burr's plans than any other person in the state of Ohio, except one. Smith no doubt did at that time suppose that he knew a great deal about Burr's plans, for he had then received the letter in which Burr affects to explain them. It is not therefore surprising that he should make this remark to major Riddle; but as major Riddle was, at the time of this communication, the commander of a body of militia, stationed on the Ohio to oppose Burr's progress, it would have been most surprising if Smith, having a knowledge of Burr's real plan, had selected this officer as a person to whom to boast of it. This consideration discloses the true nature of Smith's communication to major Riddle. He believed that he knew Burr's plans, and that they were innocent. He therefore told major Riddle so: But had he really known them to be criminal, this officer was one of the last persons in the world, to whom he would have disclosed his knowledge. Thus this casual communication to major Riddle, which the malicious industry of Mr. Smith's enemies has hunted up and adduced as a proof of his guilt, appears to be a most convincing proof of his innocence.
But Mr. Smith also told Riddle "that if Burr succeeded, he would prefer living at Cincinnati to Philadelphia or New York, on account of business." Succeeded in what? Why in the innocent plans, which Smith had just before told Riddle that he understood better than any person in Ohio, but one. These plans, as explained by Col. Burr to Smith, were to form a strong and numerous settlement on the Washita, and in case of a Spanish war to invade Mexico, under the authority of the government. And Mr. Smith, without more aid from the imagination than men usually obtain in such cases, might have brought himself to believe that in case these plans should succeed, they would give rise to a vast trade between the country on the Ohio, and the new settlement or conquests; that Cincinnati would become the centre of this trade, and that he, by reason of his connections and situation, would be able to obtain a large share in it. This might have been an airy speculation, but it was certainly an innocent one; for it is manifest that the plans on the success of which it was bottomed were innocent plans. Such Smith at that time supposed Burr's plans to be; or he would not have made his knowledge of them a subject of conversation with major Riddle.
That major Riddle himself viewed the matter in this light, is evident from his conduct. He was stationed on the river, with the command of a detachment of militia, and had orders from his superior officer, Gen. Gano, to collect as much information as possible, respecting Col. Burr's plans and associates, and to report to his general. Of this we are informed by a deposition of general Gano himself; who also states that major Riddle did report to him, but made no mention of this conversation with Mr. Smith, nor alluded to Mr. S. in any manner. This conversation, therefore, must have been on the whole of such a nature, or accompanied by such circumstances, as to make it appear perfectly innocent to major Riddle; who, otherwise, must have communicated it as matter of suspicion at least to his commander. Had we enjoyed the opportunity of cross examining major Riddle, these circumstances, and the rest of the conversation, would no doubt have been recalled to his recollection, and fully explained by him. In an exparte deposition they have been forgotten, or omitted as unimportant. An additional and very striking example of the importance of the privilege of being confronted with the witnesses against us, and of the danger of admitting any species of exparte testimony.
I come now Mr. President to the testimony of Col. James Taylor, who represents Mr. Smith as having, in a conversation with him and others at Cincinnati, expressed opinions favorable to a separation of the union.
It is to be recollected that Dr. Sellman, the brother-in-law of Col. Taylor, and a warm friend of the present administration, was also present at this conversation. This clearly appears from Dr. Sellman's deposition of Feb. 15th, 1808, compared with the testimony of Col. Taylor. Dr. Sellman has stated this conversation with great accuracy; and he represents Mr. Smith as having not even expressed an opinion, much less a wish, that the union would be dissolved, but merely as having repeated the opinions of a writer under the signature of the Querist, who had advocated a separation. Dr. Sellman tells us that there were five or six persons present, none of whom however he names, except Mr. Smith and Col. Taylor. Let us take his own words "After attending some time to the conversation, I noticed a reference was occasionally made to a publication or publications in the Marietta paper. For some time I was at a loss to determine whether those gentlemen were expressing their own opinions, or those contained in that publication: for I was not present at the commencement of the conversation, tho' it did appear to me to be a detail of the opinions set forth in that publication. As it is now impressed on my mind, I believe, to more fully satisfy myself I asked a question. Nor can I perfectly remember whether I intended the question particularly for Mr. Smith, or for both the gentlemen; but I believe it was intended for Mr. Smith. "Do you expect or apprehend an early separation of the union? To which Mr. Smith replied, "Not in my life time, and I hope, or pray to God, I may never live to see it, whether it takes place sooner or later." This declaration being perfectly satisfactory to me, I paid little or no attention to the conversation, and afterwards, I believe soon afterwards, left the place. I did not hear Mr. Smith or any person present advocate a separation of the union, nor have I ever before or since that time heard Mr. Smith advocate a separation of the union."
Thus then we see Mr. President, that these two witnesses, men of equal faith and respectable character, and equal intelligence, differ entirely in their manner of understanding this conversation, in which they both took a part. Col. Taylor understands Mr. Smith to have advocated a separation, and Dr. Sellman declares that he did not advocate it, but merely repeated the arguments of the Querist, and expressed his hope that a separation might never take place, and that if it did, he might not live to see it. Now let me ask whether this contradiction between two witnesses equally entitled to credit, does not leave the matter at least in doubt? Do not the scales hang in equilibrium? And in this state of doubt, can you decide in the affirmative? Does not the matter
remain precisely as if there were no proof on either side; and can you decide affirmatively, in the absence of proof? Is it not a fair and rational as well as a legal presumption, that a man is innocent, till his guilt appears; and can you say that Mr. Smith's guilt appears, when the only witness against him is contradicted by a witness of equal credit?
But I go further, Mr. President. I contend that every presumption derived from the nature of the case, and the circumstances and situation of the parties, is in favor of the statement made by Dr. Sellman.
In the first place it appears, that Dr. Sellman's attention was particularly drawn to the subject, and that he asked a question for the express purpose of ascertaining, whether those gentlemen spoke their own sentiments, or merely repeated those of the writer. It is not therefore at all probable that he would forget or so widely mistake a fact, to which his attention was so strongly attracted. Had Mr. Smith advocated a separation, as is now supposed by Col. Taylor, Dr. Sellman could not possibly have been in doubt on the subject, and his question would have been useless and silly.
Secondly we find Dr. Sellman very accurate and positive in his recollection of Mr. Smith's answer. It is impossible to suppose him mistaken, in a point which interested him so much, and must have made so strong an impression on his mind. This answer of Mr. Smith is utterly inconsistent with the statement of Col. Taylor; for it is incredible that after having advocated a separation to Col. Taylor and Gen. Findley, he should immediately and in their presence deprecate it to Dr. Sellman as a misfortune, which he hoped, if it must befall us, he should not live to see.
Thirdly, as Dr. Sellman was warmly opposed to a separation, it is most certain that his attention must have been very strongly arrested, and indeed his indignation excited, by such a conversation as Col. Taylor attributes to Mr. Smith; which could not have escaped his attention, or so soon have been effaced from his memory.
It appears in the fourth place that there were several other persons present at this conversation. Dr. Sellman says five or six, though he does not name any of them. Col. Taylor says that Gen. Findley was present. Now let me ask, if such sentiments had been expressed, in such a company, by a man holding Mr. Smith's situation in the government, would they not have attracted great attention, and given rise to much conversation? Would not the matter, in all probability, have come to the ears of some of those persons in Cincinnati who have been so active and persevering in collecting testimony against Mr. Smith? And would not some of those who heard this conversation, beside Col. Taylor, have been called on to testify?
Again. Why should Mr. Smith, on this occasion alone, have made himself the advocate of dismemberment? Had he been disposed to preach this doctrine, in the hope of making converts, would he have confined his exertions to this one time and place? There is no evidence or even accusation of his having broached the subject any where else; and if he had done so, it could hardly have escaped notice. Had he been a promoter of separation, would he have addressed himself solely to those persons whom he must have known to be most averse from it; or would he not have chosen for his hearers the weak and ignorant, who were most likely to be affected by the usual arguments in favor of such a measure?
All these difficulties are reconciled by supposing, with Dr. Sellman, that Mr. Smith merely repeated, without approbation, the opinions of the Querist; and that Col. Taylor misunderstood him as stating his own opinions and wishes. He might even have gone further, and have expressed an opinion or apprehension of his own, that the union would one day separate. That such a speculative opinion, or rather fear, is entertained by many among us, who most ardently deprecate the event, is notorious. And we find, from Gen. Carberry's testimony, that Col. Taylor himself is of this number. He told Gen. Carberry that he thought the union would separate in twenty years; and Gen. Carberry

reproved him for fixing even an imaginary period to its duration. It does not follow from this that Col. Taylor wished for a separation. And surely what he innocently thought and expressed, as a matter of speculative opinion, or of fear and dread, Mr. Smith may have innocently thought and expressed in the same manner. That Col. Taylor should mistake the nature and extent of these expressions, should understand them as arguments in favor of separation, is far more probable, than that Mr. Smith should have advanced such arguments, at such a time, and in such company. When to this strong probability we add the positive testimony of Dr. Sellman, I cannot but confidently hope that it will remove every doubt on the subject. Had Mr. Smith advocated a separation of the union at such a time, it would no doubt have justified strong suspicions of his being connected with the plans of Col. Burr, which probably had discernment, in part at least, for their object. But I humbly trust, Mr. President, that the charge, without impeaching the integrity of so respectable a witness as Col. Taylor, has been completely disproved.
[Mr. Harfer's Speech to be concluded.]
WASHINGTON CITY.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 2.
Mr. Canning's Speech. —We inserted in our paper of Friday Mr. Canning's remarks on the existing state of the relations between this country and Great Britain. They embrace several topics; the affair of the Chesapeake, the orders in Council, and generally the alleged unfriendly disposition of the British administration to the United States; all of which are treated in such a way as to excite the astonishment of any one in the least acquainted with the situation of the two countries. Whatever may have been the intention of the minister, the use made of his allegations on this side of the Atlantic is such as might well have been foreseen. They are everywhere republished, with copious commentaries, by the enemies of the administration, on the eve of several important elections, to shew its culpable supineness or partiality, and to palliate, if not to justify, the temper of the British cabinet. We may shortly take occasion to notice somewhat in detail the several topics adverted to by Mr. Canning; at present we propose to confine our remarks to that part of his observations which applies most pointedly to the conduct of our government relative to the orders in Council. These are as follows:
"Sir—Since the return of Mr. Rose, no communication has been made by the American government, in the form of complaint, or remonstrance, or intimation of any description whatever. I mention this particularly, because it is notorious that there have been several arrivals from America, supposed to be of great importance, and that several special messengers have reached this country from thence, after having touched at France. But, sir, if the honorable gentleman, in execution of his public duty, had thought fit to move for any communications that had been made by the American government, since the departure of Mr. Rose, my answer must have been, not that his majesty's government were disinclined to make them, but that absolutely there were none to make. If it be asked 'why,' I am unable satisfactorily to reply; I can conjecture, that America has entered into negotiations with France, which are expected to lead to some result, and that the communications of America to this country are to be contingent on that result. This, sir, is conjecture alone, but it is founded on the extraordinary circumstance of so many arrivals without any communication."
This part of Mr. Canning's remarks requires the more distinct notice, as it is made the foundation of a charge against our government, of evincing a criminal indifference to the restoration of harmony with England by withholding all remonstrance to her government on the orders of Council; while it is more than insinuated that repeated remonstrances have been made to the French government: We pronounce this charge a gross and palpable falsehood, and aver that the measure, either of remonstrance or of action, has been equally and impartially dealt out to both governments. The fact is, that no important aggression on neutral rights has been perpetrated by either France or England without immediate and strenuous remonstrance on the part of our government. The fact is, that with respect to every such aggression, an uniform sentiment has been felt, and an inviolable course pursued. When injured, no matter by which nation, redress has been demanded
for the wrong, and security against its repetition. The documents published prove this to have been the case down to a late period, and those, which in all probability will be submitted to Congress at their next session, will equally prove it down to the present moment.
To substantiate our allegations beyond the reach of controversy, we shall proceed to specify some of the grounds on which they are made. If they bear hard upon the honor, the veracity or the delicacy of Mr. Canning, it will not be our fault; but that either of himself or his reporter. We shall be perfectly satisfied with understanding that the facts asserted by him, or the impression which the artful structure of the terms in which they are couched is fitted to make, are surreptitious. We shall, in the mean time, demonstrate either the falsehood of the facts, or of the impression evidently intended to be produced.
The celebrated British orders bear date the 11th, but were not promulgated until the 17th of November last. For some days, however, previous to their publication in the Gazette, a general rumor prevailed that some such measure was on the eve of adoption, and the American merchants, consequently, took the alarm. So strong was this rumor that Mr. Pinkney, our minister at London, deemed it his duty to wait on Mr. Canning, and he accordingly did wait on him on the 11th of November, the very day on which these orders were signed, to enquire with regard to the correctness of the rumor, and to remonstrate, in such case, against the contemplated measure. Mr. Pinkney did not succeed in seeing Mr. Canning, but he saw the under Secretary Hammond, to whom he communicated the leading considerations that offered themselves to his mind against the orders. Mr. Hammond neither admitted or denied that a measure was either taken or contemplated, thereby studiously concealing from Mr. Pinkney the fact, as if with the express and deliberate purpose of preventing remonstrance against it, until remonstrance should be too late. But Mr. Pinkney did, notwithstanding, remonstrate against it, not merely with a view to protest against a measure actually taken, but to prevent its being taken. But the die was already cast, and he found to his surprise, a few days after, that the fatal act had been consummated, the Rubicon had been passed, on the very day of his interview, without the least notice or opportunity for explanation or remonstrance.
On the 17th of November the orders appeared in the Gazette in form. Such a marked indignity had been offered to his country by this gigantic outrage on her rights without the least notice or explanation, that Mr. Pinkney might justly have shrouded himself in a proud silence. He might have disdained remonstrance to a government that thus levelled a deadly blow at the prosperity of a nation she called her friend without apology or notice. But feeling profoundly the deep responsibility of his station as the representative of a pacific nation, he determined to control his feelings, and by making a manly appeal to the justice and magnanimity of the British government, attempt to awaken them to a sense of their interests and a respect for our rights. This appeal, this remonstrance, was made without delay to Mr. Canning, on the 21st of Nov. in an interview with him. While Mr. Pinkney was preparing his remonstrance, Mr. Canning asked an interview, when Mr. Canning said he had requested to see him, not with the intention of discussing the general propriety of the orders, for they being now adopted discussion could answer no valuable purpose, but with the view of explaining such of their provisions as might be supposed to be liable to misconstruction.
Thus was the door forcibly closed by Mr. Canning upon all explanation, or remonstrance, by the unqualified declaration that discussion could answer no valuable purpose.
But Mr. Pinkney, confident of his power to expose the injustice of the orders, and entertaining, it would appear, some hope of the good effects of sound argument, insensibly led to a conversation upon the whole subject, in which he exposed the injustice of the orders, their unreasonableness and impolicy, and their destructive operation as well upon belligerent as neutral nations, as well upon Great Britain herself as upon the U. States.
But his remonstrance was unavailing. It was received with a silence that proved that the administration had unequivocally decided on their new system, which had, no doubt, been long meditated in secret. All that could be got from Mr. Canning, on the enquiry of Mr. Pinkney whether Mr. Rose was authorised to advise the American government on the orders, was, that his mission had a spe-
cial object, and that it was not meant that his functions should interfere with those of Mr. Erskine, to whom a communication of the orders would be made, as soon as they should be freed from ambiguities and defects by the judgment of practical men being exercised upon them.
So far it appears that every avenue to remonstrance in England was closed by the British government, and that its future theatre, if to be found any where, was located in this country. Accordingly on the 23rd of February, the Orders, three months and a half after their date, were formally communicated by Mr. Erskine to the Secretary of State, accompanied by a letter, communicated to Congress at their last session, specifying the grounds on which they were issued. To this letter the Secretary of State replied in a strong and comprehensive remonstrance. A copy of this reply was sent to Mr. Pinkney by the April packet, the receipt of which Mr. Pinkney acknowledges on the 30th of May, by which conveyance Mr. Erskine indisputably likewise sent a copy of it, which must have been received by his government at the same time, and at least twenty four days previous to the delivery of the speech ascribed to Mr. Canning.
However, then, Mr. Canning may equivocatingly say "since the return of Mr. Rose (who reached England about the end of April) or since his departure from this country (about the first of April) no communication has been MADE by the American government in the form of complaint or remonstrance," the fact is, that such a communication, made at a period anterior to both those events, has been RECEIVED, and to this day remains unanswered. The fact is that the American government, through its minister at London, strenuously endeavored to prevent the Orders altogether by remonstrating against them anterior, as he supposed, to their existence; that he afterwards, as soon as he was apprised of their existence, more fully and pointedly remonstrated against them to Mr. Canning, who informed him that remonstrance could answer no valuable purpose; that Mr. Canning closed the door against all further remonstrance in England by making Mr. Erskine the organ of communicating and explaining the orders to our government here; that Mr. Erskine accordingly communicated and justified them in his letter to the Secretary of State of the 23rd of February last; and that, finally, the Secretary of State returned a full reply or remonstrance, which remains unanswered. If there be an American, who, after this explanation, would have his government humiliate itself by further remonstrance, which could only serve to court still higher indignity, while too the outrage on the Chesapeake remains unatoned, he is unworthy of the name.
It is only necessary, to prevent all cavil, further to say, that the letter of Mr. Pinkney, to which we have alluded, was among the documents presented to Congress at their last session, and was read in the Senate with open doors, and that for the dates of the other papers we applied to the proper sources of authority.
At a numerous meeting of the republican citizens of Sussex County, N. J. the following resolutions have been unanimously passed:—
"Resolved, That we have viewed with satisfaction the measures pursued by the administration of the general government, and consider them well calculated to preserve the peace and prosperity of our country."
"Resolved, That we highly approve of the embargo law, and consider it the only measure that could be adopted to save our citizens and property from the despotic grasp of foreign nations, and to steer us clear of the dreadful effects of war."
"Resolved, That we view the attempts making throughout this state to mislead the honest but unsuspecting citizens thereof, by the most unfounded aspersions against our government, and a base distortion of the motives by which it is actuated in the measures it has taken for the security of our persons and property, as the last and most desperate effort of a fallen faction—and that we consider such men as actuated by the most deadly and determined spirit of hostility to the American people."
"Resolved, That the nomination of JAMES MADISON, as the democratic candidate for President of the U. States, meets our warmest approbation, and that we will use every honorable means to promote his election."
A a numerous meeting of the republicans of Northampton County, Pen. have unanimously passed the following resolutions:—
"Resolved, That we have the fullest confidence in the wisdom and patriotism of Thomas Jefferson, Presi-
dent of the U. States—that we consider his administration to have, in an eminent degree, advanced the interest and welfare of his country, and that he is entitled to the gratitude of every American, for his indefatigable and successful devotion in promoting the liberty and independence of the U. States."
"Resolved, That we highly approve of the nomination made by a majority of the Democratic members of Congress at Washington, of JAMES MADISON, for President, and GEORGE CLINTON, for Vice-President of the U. States; and that we will support the electoral ticket agreed on by the democratic delegates last March at Lancaster, under the conviction that they will support the nomination above alluded to."
The following resolutions have been passed by the republican citizens of Washington County, Maryland:—
"Resolved, That we do highly approve the dignified and patriotic conduct of our government in the measures adopted to secure our property and seamen from the grasp of the belligerents, and from a bloody, expensive, and desolating war, and that we will with our lives and fortunes support the constituted authorities in all such measures as may be necessary to replace our country in that free and independent state to which she is entitled as a sovereign power, being determined that we will not tamely submit to French decrees, or British orders of council, which frustrate our commerce, would make it tributary to a foreign power, and which would ultimately end in our vassalage."
"And whereas, we have uniformly, both in our state and Presidential elections, adopted the principle of supporting the regular nomination made by a majority of the republican members of the legislature, as best calculated to insure success, and to preserve union and harmony amongst ourselves; and whereas a large majority of the republican members of Congress who possess our confidence have, conformably to our uniform practice, nominated and recommended James Madison as a suitable candidate for the office of President, and George Clinton for that of Vice-President of the United States, at the ensuing election, and we believing the same to be fairly done from pure and patriotic motives, Therefore,
"Resolved, As the sense of this meeting, that the said nomination is entitled to our approbation, and ought to be supported by every consistent republican."
To the Editor of the National Intelligencer.
SIR,—It was not without some degree of surprise that I read in your paper of the 26th some observations made by Mr. Canning in a speech delivered in the House of Commons on the 24th of June last on the subject of the attack on the Chesapeake. All his observations seem to be calculated to mislead the nation and to throw a veil over a transaction which must ever stain the British character unless ample reparation shall be made.
Mr. Canning observed "that in the whole conduct of the British government, with respect to the affair of the Chesapeake, we have endeavored to keep in view the principle upon which we set out, namely, to make ample reparation for that which was a decidedly wrong act; but to make that reparation under a determination not to surrender a right which the great majority of the country has ever considered as essential to its dearest interests." Again he observed that "that reparation was not accepted by America, because America would not fulfil the condition on which alone it was tendered, namely the revocation of that proclamation by which the British ships were not allowed to enter the harbors of America, while those of the enemy visited them at pleasure. But the manner in which the British reparation was tendered to America by a special mission, was to all the feelings of nice honor, an effective reparation, although not accepted, and so in fact we have every reason to believe that it was considered by the American government."
From these observations every reader would infer that the British government had offered reparation to the government of the United States, for the attack on the Chesapeake. Mr. Canning may be said to assert it when speaking of the manner in which reparation was tendered to America by a special mission. The truth is, that no reparation was offered by Mr. Rose to the American government for this outrage, nor has any reparation been offered to this hour.
Mr. Rose's mission proved abortive, because he refused to treat relative to the affair of the Chesapeake, until the proclamation of the President should be revoked. In his letter of
the 26th of January he declares that he is expressly precluded by his instructions from entering upon any negotiation for the adjustment of the differences arising from the rencounter of his majesty's ship Leopard, and the frigate of the U. S. the Chesapeake, as long as the proclamation of the President of the U. S. of the 2d of July 1807, shall be in force. Mr. Rose did not consider himself at liberty previously to disclose the reparation intended, but insisted peremptorily on a revocation of the proclamation; to which the President of the U. S. could not consistently with the respect due to national character, condescend to accede. These facts since their publication by order of Congress, are of public notoriety. It may be asked then with what propriety could Mr. Canning say that reparation was tendered to America? It is impossible that he could have been a stranger to Mr. Rose's instructions, or to the correspondence which had passed between him and the American Secretary of State: of course it may be supposed that he knew that reparation had not been tendered to the American government. There is certainly a great want of candor throughout the whole of Mr. Canning's observations. If the British government were sincerely disposed to make atonement for that unprecedented aggression, they have had ample time to do it, without surrendering a right which the great majority of the country has ever considered as essential to its dearest interests. He well knew that Mr. Rose was at liberty to treat separately of that topic, and that every obstacle in the way of negotiating relative to it, was removed by the Executive of the United States.
Mr. Canning must have a very incompetent idea of the character of the American government, if he is sincere in a belief that the manner in which the British reparation was tendered to America was considered by the government as an effective reparation. How far it was considered by the government as an effective reparation, I will not undertake to assert; but judging from the reply of the Secretary of State to Mr. Rose's communication of the 26th January, the reverse is the fact. The inference is inevitable. The prompt and decided manner in which the President rejected the proposition of Mr. Rose for a previous revocation of the proclamation, affords conclusive evidence of the opinion entertained by the Executive of the United States, with respect to the special mission by the British government. Instead of honorable reparation for the injury sustained, we hitherto experienced nothing but empty and hollow professions.
They profess to be ready to make atonement for the atrocity; but that it cannot be done unless the American government agree to make it a distinct subject of negotiation. As soon as the American government condescend to treat separately respecting it, another condition is announced;—the proclamation must be previously revoked! Forgetting the opinion of his government on a former occasion when Great Britain was the complaining party, that reparation loses its value if it be conditional.
R. L.
August 30, 1808.
At a meeting of about 200 Voters of the Nottingham District, held on the 20th inst. in the town of Nottingham in Prince Georges county.
ROBERT YOUNG, Esq. was called to the Chair, and RINALDO JOHNSON, Esq. chosen Sec.
When the following resolutions were unanimously adopted, saving the last, which gave rise to an animated debate, and was finally carried by a considerable majority:—
"Resolved, That from a thorough conviction of the salutary effects of the present administration of our general government, and being firmly persuaded that our distinguished fellow-citizen JAMES MADISON is pre-eminently qualified to secure to us all the benefits which may reasonably be expected from a continuation of the same wise and magnanimous system; we pledge ourselves to support him, highly approving of the recommendation of the Congressional Caucus, as a candidate for the Presidency; and whilst we cheerfully yield our approbation to the measures of the administration generally, we feel it a duty peculiarly incumbent upon us, at this interesting crisis of our national affairs to express our entire approbation and perfect satisfaction in that measure of the administration which the artful and interested agents of our inveterate enemy, the government of Great Britain, have converted into a theme of misrepresentation, calumny and falsehood—Wherefore
"Resolved, That the Pres. of the U. S. and our republican Representatives in Congress, are in the opinion of this meeting justly entitled to the confidence and thanks of their fellow-citi-

zens for recommending and enacting the laws imposing an embargo upon our ships and vessels, &c.
Resolved , That should the very just and honorable line of conduct pursued by the government of the U. States towards the belligerents of Europe, prove ineffectual in securing to us a continuation of peace: "We do most solemnly pledge our fortunes and our lives in support of such measures as may be adopted to compel our enemies to respect our rights."
Resolved , That we respectfully recommend our worthy fellow-citizen gen. Robert Bowie , to the consideration of this district, as Elector of President and Vice President, and pledge ourselves to co-operate in the support of his election by every reputable and becoming exertion.
Resolved , That whilst we entertain the highest respect for our venerable Vice President George Clinton , and fully appreciate the talents and virtues of our fellow-citizen James Monroe , we view with abhorrence every attempt made, in the spirit of discord, to array their names on the side of resistance to the principles and acts of the present administration, especially at a time when the best interests of the nation demand the sacred harmony and united exertions of every friend to its independence.
Resolved , That as friends of truth and in justice to exalted talents and incorruptible public and private virtues; we cannot delay the expression of our entire confidence in the honor and integrity of gen. James Wilkinson , that we entertain a lively gratitude for his vigilance in detecting, and activity in suppressing, the traitorous machinations of A. Burr. That the late charges preferred against him in the Congress of the U. States, were generated in malice, the offspring of personal animosity, private pique and disappointed ambition. And that his ardent zeal and faithful services will secure to him the affection of every honest citizen and bespeak for this illustrious character "a fair page in the volume of faithful history."
Resolved , That we are ready to act in concert with our democratic friends of Anne Arundel County, relative to the selection and support of a candidate for Congress, and that George Biscoe , Alexander Contee , L. Covington , James G. Wood , John T. Wood and Daniel Rawlings are hereby appointed a committee of correspondence, to advise with our political associates of the several counties composing the Congressional and electoral districts, and also to communicate with such committee or committees as may be appointed in P. George's county, respecting the choice of state delegates. We are fatigued and disgusted with every species of anomalous, vacillating, rote-seeking conduct. Our political principles are pure and undisguised; they cannot associate with temporary policy, artful trimming and blending mixtures of right and wrong. We prefer a federalist in full attire to schismatic quid, and if no republican of unequivocal character and worth can be invited into action under the prospect of united support from that interest, then we pledge ourselves not to interfere in the Congressional election to the defeat of any federal candidate who may oppose Mr. Van Horn.
On motion. Resolved , That the foregoing resolutions be signed by the Chairman & Secretary & offered for publication in the National Intelligencer, Monitor & Maryland Gazette.
ROBT. YOUNG.
Chairman.
RINALDO JOHNSON, Sec'y.
The Spanish navy consists of 53 sail of the line and 31 frigates, exclusive of what may have been built since 1795.
ELECTIONS. —In North-Carolina Mr. Holland is said to be re-elected; and Mr. James Cochran is elected, vice D. R. Williams, declined.
In Kentucky, it is understood that Mr. Lyon is re-elected.
The establishment of the South Carolina "Homespun Society," has been agreed upon at Charleston, S. C. Its capital to consist of 150,000 dollars, divided into 15,000 shares of 10 dollars each, 1000 of which is to be reserved for the legislature. A committee has been appointed to receive subscriptions of stock, and an address delivered to the citizens of that state, signed by the venerable and patriotic historian Ramsay. The object of the institution is "domestic manufactures."—American.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman of respectability to the Editor of the North Star.
"On Sunday the 7th inst. at Newburyport, (Mas.) a large sloop was loaded with fish and other articles, within four hours from the time of
beginning. About 50 men were employed, dressed in disguise, and their faces blacked—Notwithstanding the officer of the custom-house forbid this conduct, and no guard being at that place to assist the officer of government, the sloop put to sea without any papers, and in defiance of the law; and to add to the insult, hoisted the British Jack—the name of the vessel is not known, neither is the owner, or captain known."
New-York, August 25.
DISTRESSING FIRE. —A fire broke out between the hour of twelve and one o'clock this morning, in the house of Mr. Watkies, tallow-chandler, Nassau street, which was entirely consumed, with a number of the adjoining buildings. This calamity was attended with a deplorable event. The fire had got to such a height, that notwithstanding the most daring & generous efforts of the firemen, Mrs. Watkies and her daughter perished in the flames. Mrs. Watkies in attempting to rescue her child, fell a victim to the goodness of her heart and the tender affections of a mother.
We understand that two negro children were also consumed in the devouring element. The extent of the loss in property is not ascertained; but it must be considerable.
Too much praise cannot be awarded the city firemen. Their zeal and intrepidity was only exceeded by their benevolent exertions to save the lives of the unfortunate sufferers. The citizens generally displayed an activity & interest which entitles them to much credit.
New-York, August 29.
Capt. Harding, arrived at Boston on Wednesday, spoke on the 18th July, off the Start, a pilot boat, which informed him that the brig then in sight (a Bremener) was from Oporto and bound to London, and that he had left the former place on the 2d of July with intelligence of the Portuguese having taken Oporto; but that Lisbon, by the last accounts, remained in possession of the French.
SPANISH ROYAL FAMILY.
When Charles III. died, the crown fell, Dec. 13, 1788, on Charles IV. born Nov. 11, 1748, married Sept. 4, 1760, to Louisa-Maria-Theresa, a daughter of the duke of Parma, who was born Dec. 9, 1751.
A brother to Charles IV. (P'Infantado of Spain and third son of Charles III.) Ferdinand-Antoine, born Jan. 12, 1751, was proclaimed king of both Sicilies, Oct. 6, 1759.
Children of Charles IV.
1. Charlotte-Joachim-Theresa, born April 25, 1777, married the 9th of Jan. 1790; to Johan-Maria-Joseph, prince of Brazil, who took the reign of the kingdom of Portugal, July 15, 1799.
2. Maria-Louisa-Josephine, born July 6, 1782, married Sept. 25, 1795, to Ludwig, P'Infant of Spain, who died the 27th of May, 1803.
3. Ferdinand, prince of Asturias, born Oct. 14, 1784, married August 26, 1802, with Maria-Antonietta-Theresa-Amelia, princess of Sicily, born Dec. 15, 1784. [Ferdinand is now declared king. His wife died a short time since; to her influence, however, king Charles ascribes the hatred of Ferdinand to the French.]
4. Caroline Isabella-Isidor, born March 29, 1788.
5. Maria Isabella, born July 6, 1789, married July 6, 1802, to Francis-Januar-Joseph, heir to the kingdom of Sicily and the Infantado of Spain.
6. Francis-de-Paula-Antoine-Maria, born March 10, 1794.
House of Sicily, who have pretensions to the Spanish throne.
King of Sicily, Ferdinand IV. P'Infantado of Spain, son of king Charles III. married to Maria Caroline Ludowick Joseph, daughter of the Roman emperor, born August 13, 1752, wedded May 12, 1768.
Their issue.
1. Maria Theresa-Caroline, born June 6, 1772, married September 19, 1790, to Francis II. emperor of the Romans and king of Hungary.
2. Francis-Januar-Joseph, born August 19, 1777, married to Maria Isabella, 5th child of Charles IV. [This person is denominated P'Infantado of Spain.]
3. Maria Christiana-Theresa, born Jan. 17, 1779.
4. Maria-Amelia, born April 26, 1782.
5. Maria-Antonietta-Theresa-Amelia, married to the prince of Asturias.
6. Leopold Johan-Joseph Michael, born July 2, 1790, grand Prior of Messina.
The foregoing is the genealogy of the houses of Spain & Sicily. Most of the Spanish family Napoleon has in his power. How the duke de P'Infantado, came to allow himself to be entrapped, it is difficult to conjecture,
except, that he went under the fancied protection of the king. The Sicilian family, and Portuguese family, are heirs to the Spanish throne.
From a London paper of July 9.
NAVAL PROJECTS OF THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT.
On the 24th May the Prince Arch Chancellor, presiding in the sitting of the Senate, appointed the State Counsellor, Regnault de St. Jean d'Angely, Minister of State, to lay before them the grounds of a Senatus Consultum, for uniting Tuscany with the French empire; and M. Semonville spoke in the name of the commission of the Senate, which unanimously voted for this incorporation.—The following is a summary of the assigned grounds:
"The whole coast of the Mediterranean sea must form a part of the French territory of the great empire. The regions, the coasts adjoining to the Adriatic, are united with the kingdom of Italy; all those which lie along the Mediterranean, which are adjacent to our territory, must be united with the empire of France. From Leghorn to Toulon, to Genoa, to the department of Corsica, is not farther than from Leghorn to Milan. The commerce of the Mediterranean, whatever may be the opposition of the tyrant of the seas, will be necessarily under the influence of France. The very same first principles, in consequence of which Genoa was incorporated with France rather than with the kingdom of Italy, also require that Leghorn be made a part of the empire. The kingdom of Naples, which lies both on the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, constitutes a distinct kingdom, subject however to the same federative system, and to the same state policy."
"The port of Leghorn has given constant reasons of complaint to France. That port, appertaining to a territory governed by a weak prince, had fallen under the influence of England, and was become one of the principal islets, for her commerce. In different instances, without wishing to violate the neutrality of the sovereign of Tuscany, it became necessary for divisions of French troops to enter Leghorn, to confiscate the English merchandise there. These violations of territory, however necessary, are always disagreeable; and since Leghorn cannot be under the influence of France and England, at the same time, it must become part of France. Besides, Leghorn and the Tuscan territory produce sailors for the extension of our marine; through its whole extent ship-building is carried on, and in the same proportion must the means be increased of providing seamen for manning them. If as of late a squadron was created at Toulon, as if by a miracle, and if, contrary to the ideas of all those who are acquainted with the sea service, we found means to equip a numerous squadron, which Admiral Ganteaume commanded with so much ability, and for which he obtained so much renown, by the skillful manoeuvres by which he frustrated the plans of the enemy—which havings supplied with men, provisions, and warlike stores, Corfu, the key of the Adriatic, menaced by an expedition already on its way, thus rendered fruitless, and which on its returning voyage, captured many considerable prizes, braved all storms, and exercised the crews during a difficult voyage of three months—if all these advantages have been gained, they must be partly ascribed to the incorporation of Genoa, which numbers many of her sons among the good seamen of that squadron."
"The sons of the Arno are invited to glory; his majesty having decreed that Spezzia shall be a military port; the docks, the works of the arsenal, and the forts, both on the sea and land side, are already marked out, and before the end of the present year, six ships of two or three decks shall be put upon the stocks."
"It would not be proper to establish such considerable works at the extremities of the empire, if a foreign power were placed at the very gates of that arsenal.—Spezzia shall become a second Toulon in the Mediterranean; on the whole coast there abounds iron, timber, provisions, and useful hands; the provisions, the iron, and the men surrendered up, must become French. France and the continent, which are desirous of restoring the balance of power on the ocean, have the self same interest in the prosperity of the new maritime department of Spezzia. The incorporation of Tuscany is a necessary consequence of that grand plan."
"This union is also the interest of Tuscany, which under the sway of its little princes, was governed without system, without vigor, and was perpetually infested by the Barbary powers. Men can now no longer be governed in a capricious and fantastic manner. There must be a certain rule, the government of the law, protected by a
prince sufficiently great and elevated above the passions of men, and inflexible, as the law is necessary for this purpose. The time indeed is passed, in which it was believed that people were made for kings, not kings for people. Lands, pastures, and forests may become property, but no person can possess a kingdom as if it were a farm. These disastrous consequences can no longer take place in great states. It is vain then that objections are made to the great extension of the empire: the communication by land, now that neither Alps or Appenines oppose it, is as easy from Leghorn to Paris as from Paris to Nice. It has been the policy of European states to subdue the most distant countries, in order to obtain new commercial and maritime resources; why then should we neglect those resources and acquisitions which are so valuable to us? The territory of the Medics, the country of the sciences and the arts, must form an immediate part of the French empire."
"The Dukedom of Urbana, Ceserino, and the Mark of Ancona lying on the coast of the Adriatic, fall under the influence of Venice, and must necessarily be united to the kingdom of Italy. This is also accomplished, and the considerable works in the ports of Ancona, will afford there the opportunity of fitting out 10 sail of the line, to secure the freedom of the Adriatic sea, of which Ancona shall be the harbor, and Venice the naval arsenal. Before the end of this year five sail of the line shall be lying in the roads of Ancona, in that dangerous sea, which to the English presents only hostile shores, and where they will be obliged to maintain six ships of the line, if they attempt to counterbalance our power. No, the war shall be eternal, in spite of the blind fury which cherishes that inhuman and senseless principle in the cabinet of London. Every where French squadrons are forming, and our naval power in the Scheldt is already considerable. In a few days there will be in the roads of Flushing and Antwerp, a fleet of 30 sail of the line; that on the coast of Brittany will be still stronger. Besides, that we have the allied Russian squadron at Lisbon, where there are already a division of several new ships of the line in the best state, which the rapid advance of the army under Junot placed in our hands."
"The events of Spain have converted a declining and badly conducted monarchy into a constitutional and energetic government; the dock yards at Cadiz, Ferrol and Carthagena, have felt this already. Toulon, Spezzia, Venice, all the sources forthwith coming from Holland, Spain and Italy, are in operation: we must have ships, and these last named countries have no deficiency either of iron or of timber and hemp, for building or rigging them."
"A decree has been issued from the Emperor for the incorporation of Tuscany, on the principle of the necessity for completing the system of the Great Empire, and for rendering the naval administration of France harmonious throughout the members of the great confederacy. Without the incorporation of Tuscany, there could be no immediate communication with Naples, and our relations could not be maintained with her, but through the medium of the states subsisting under other governments, from which it might be feared that the guidance and influence might be lost, which must be exercised towards such states, to place the coasts and sailors in a state of opposition to the common enemy."
BY AUTHORITY.
AN ACT
For the improvement of Market Houses and for other purposes.
Sec. 1. BE it enacted by the First and Second Chambers of the City Council of Washington, That the following sums hereinafter mentioned, be, and the same hereby are appropriated, for the following objects, that is to say; for paving and repairing and extending the market house on the market square on the Eastern Branch, for opening and improving K street from eighth street east to said market house, and for opening and improving the alley leading from L street south, to said market house, five hundred dollars: for paving and building an addition to the west end of the Centre Market House, the sum of fifteen hundred dollars.
Sec. 2. Be it enacted , That the above sums be paid out of any monies in the treasury not otherwise appropriated.
Sec. 3. Be it enacted , That all the aforesaid sums shall be expended under the direction of Commissioners to be appointed by the Mayor.
Approved, August 17th, 1808.
AN ACT
For the relief of Samuel N. Smallwood.
BE it enacted by the First and Second Chambers of the City Council of Washington, That the sum of fifty-six dollars and fifty cents be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to pay Samuel N. Smallwood for warehouse rent and other purposes: provided that he satisfy the Mayor that the same is correct.
Approved, August 13th, 1808. ROBERT BRENT, Mayor.
FOR SALE.
THE Subscriber has just received and offers for sale at his store near the Navy Yard a general assortment of LADIES & GENTLEMEN'S HOES.
Which he will sell for Cash at a low price.
JOSEPH CASSIN.
N. B. He has always on hand an assortment of GROCERIES of the first quality.
September 2—tw
NEW GOODS.
The Subscriber has just received from New York, and now opening at his STORE in BRIDGE STREET, the following Goods, viz.
 1 Case 4th and 6th cotton cambric muslins.  1 do. 7th 8th Irish linens well assorted.  1 do. 8th and 10th Irish damask table Diapers.  6 do. men's low priced fird hats.  1 do. men and womens cotting stockings, plain, laced, and sandals.  1 trunk low priced English calicoes.  1 do. 8th cotton damask table diapers.  1 do. containing 35 dozen cotton damask toweling.  1 do. 60 pieces sarsit and brown bancano hankchiefs.  1 do. dark plaid ginghams and black cambic muslins.  6 bales India cottons, different kinds.  4 do. white and brown German ticklenburgs.  45 boxes Havana segars. 
All of which will be sold low for cash or approved paper at 60 or 90 days.
EDWARD L. SMITH.
George Town, September 2—5w
District of Columbia, Washington county, to wit.
ON the petition of WILLIAM KAIN an insolvent debtor confined in the prison of Washington county aforesaid for debt, notice is hereby given to the creditors of the said William Kain, that on the 12th day of September next, at Lindsay's hotel, in the city of Washington at the hour of 9 o'clock A. M. the oath prescribed by the act of Congress, entitled, "An act for the relief of insolvent debtors within the District of Columbia," will be administered to the said William Kain, and a trustee appointed unless cause be then and there shown to the contrary.
Ordered that this notice be published three times before the 9th day of September next in the Washington Federalist, and in the National Intelligencer, and in one of the daily papers published in Philadelphia.
By order of the honorable William Cranch, Esq. chief judge of the circuit court of the district of Columbia. WM. BRENT, Ck.
August 29—3t
Prince Georges, county, ss.
ON application to me the subscriber is the recess of the court as chief judge of the first judicial district of the state of Maryland by petition in writing of HENRY ADDISON CALLIS, of Prince Georges county, praying for the benefit of the act for the relief of sundry insolvent debtors, and the several supplements thereto on the terms mentioned in the said act, a schedule of his property and list of his creditors on oath as far as he can ascertain them, being annexed to his petition; and the said Henry Addison Callis, having satisfied me by competent testimony that he has resided in the state of Maryland two years immediately preceding the time of his application; having also stated in his petition that he is now in actual confinement for debt and not on account of any breach of the peace or for the non-payment of any fine, or penalty for the breach of the laws of this state or of the United States, and having produced to me the certificate of the Sheriff of Prince Georges county to that effect, and having prayed to be discharged from confinement on the terms prescribed in the said act, and having given security for his personal appearance at the next county court to answer any allegations that may be made against him by his creditors. I do hereby order and adjudge that the said Henry Addison Callis be discharged from his imprisonment, and by causing a copy of this order to be inserted in the National Intelligencer for three months successively before the first Monday in December next, to give notice to his creditors to appear before the county court at the court house of said county, at 12 o'clock of the said first Monday in December next for the purpose of recommending a trustee for their benefit, on the said Henry Addison Callis then and there taking the oath by the said act prescribed for the delivering up his property and to show cause if any they have why the said Henry Addison Callis should not have the benefit of the several acts of Assembly for the relief of insolvent debtors.
Given under my hand this 12th day of August 1808. JOHN M. GANTT. September 2—w4m

CENTRE MARKET HOUSE. PROPOSALS for the Masons' and Carpenters' work, either jointly or separately, materials included, will be received by either of the subscribers until Monday the 5th day of September next, for building an addition to the West End of the Centre Market House, agreeably to a plan lodged with Captain James Hoban.
Thomas H. Gillis, James Hoban, Andrew Way, junr. Commissioners.
August 29th—3t
District of Columbia, Washington county, to wit.
ON the petition of RICHARD W. BELT an insolvent debtor confined in the prison of Washington county for debt—Notice is hereby given to the creditors of the said Richard W. Belt that on Monday the 5th day of September next at Lindsay's Hotel, in the city of Washington at the hour of 9 o'clock A. M. the oath prescribed by the act of Congress, entitled, "An act for the relief of insolvent debtors within the district of Columbia," will be administered to the said Richard W. Belt and a trustee appointed, unless cause be then and there shown to the contrary.
It is ordered that this notice be published in the National Intelligencer, three times before said day.
By order of the honorable William Cranch, esq. chief judge of the circuit court of the district of Columbia.
WM. BRENT, Ck.
August 27—3t
MARSHAL'S SALE.
WILL be exposed to Public Sale on the 30th day of September next, at Rhodes's tavern in Washington city, all the right, title, and interest of WM. ESENBECK , to LOTS numbered Two and Three in Square 257 in said city—said property is seized and sold by virtue of a writ of feri facias , issued out of the circuit court of the district of Columbia for the county of Washington at the suit of John C. Severman, against said Esenbeck.
The sale will commence precisely at 11 o'clock, A. M. Terms cash.
WASHINGTON BOYD, Marshal D. C. Aug. 29—2awts
FOR RENT,
ONE OF THE SEVEN BUILDINGS, Now in the tenure of the Subscriber, Possession may be had on the FIFTEENTH DAY OF SEPTEMBER NEXT. HENRY WHETCROFT. Aug. 29—3t.
FOR SALE or RENT,
THE Hotel at present occupied by P. D. STELLE . The advantages of this situation are so well known, that it is useless to say more of it—it is convenient to the Capitol, is calculated for a large establishment, with stabling for 40 or 50 horses. The Bridge, rapidly progressing over the Potomac, with the turnpike road to Alexandria, also in great forwardness, will add to the many advantages this situation possesses. To a man qualified to carry on such an establishment, no situation can insure a more certain and rapid fortune. Occupation can be had any day before the first of October next. Apply to the subscriber,
DANL. CARROLL of Dud's Washington, August 3—eptO
NOTICE.
PURSUANT to an act of the General Assembly of Maryland, passed at November session, 1806, entitled "An act authorizing the collection of certain ground rents due on lots in the Town of Cumberland, in Allegany county," and a supplement thereto, passed at November session, 1807, Public Notice is hereby given to all persons holding unimproved lots in said town, on which ground rents are now due, that unless the said rents are paid on or before the first day of December next, the said lots will on that day be offered at public sale to the highest bidder, on a credit of 60 days. The sale to be held at Mr. J. Rine's tavern in said town, to commence at ten o'clock, A. M. and continue from day to day, until the whole are sold.
THOMAS BEALL, of Sams. March 21—eptds
SALE AT AUCTION.
ON Monday the 5th September, at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, (if fair, if not the next fair day) will be sold at the house of Richard Harrison near George Town, on the Frederic road— HOUSE, OLD & KITCHEN FURNITURE.
ALSO, A strong, well finished, Philadelphia built CARRIAGE, but little used, with plated mountings and harness.
Terms of sale—for all sums not exceeding 50 dollars cash; above 50 and not exceeding 100 dollars, ninety days; all sums exceeding 100 dollars, six months credit, the purchasers to give their notes with approved indorsers, negotiable at the Bank of Columbia, or the city of Washington.
JOHN TRAVERS, Auc. August 22—
MONEY WANTED!
THE services of a valuable Negro Man may be had twelve months, for the use of
FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS. Satisfactory security will be given for the repayment of the money at the expiration thereof.
E.quire of the Printer, August 31—3t.
WANTED
AT the Woodyard for the ensuing year a Manager, to take charge of the whole estate. He must be a sober, diligent and discreet man—well acquainted with the culture of wheat, corn and tobacco, and the management of negroes. To such a man who can produce unquestionable testimonials of his capacity, sobriety and fidelity, high wages will be given. A person not connected in the neighborhood will be preferred.
Apply to RD. W. WEST, Woodyard. N. B. Application must be made before the 1st. Sept. next. May 13—eptS
NOW DRAWING, THE CHARITABLE MARINE SOCIETY LOTTERY, Consisting of 10,000 Tickets In which are the following capital prizes—
1 prize of 5,000 dollars, 1 prize of 3,000 dollars, 1 prize of 2,500 dollars, 2 prizes of 1,500 dollars.
Now is the fortunate moment—any of the above prizes may be had by applying for Tickets at J. MARCH'S Book-Store, George Town.
Present price of Tickets 5 1-2 dolls, but will advance as the drawing progresses.
It is worthy of remark that the above prizes are paid without deduction, and that the whole drawing will be completed in two months from this date.
August 26—3t
MARSHAL'S SALE.
WILL be exposed to public sale on the 23rd day of September next, at Rhodes's tavern in Washington city, all the right, title, and interest of BENJAMIN PERKINS to lot No. 1, in square Seventy-five in said city, together with a small frame workshop thereon; the above property is seized and sold to satisfy two writs of feri facias issued out of the circuit court of the district of Columbia for the county of Washington, the one at the suit of Timothy Caldwell, and the other at the suit of Alexander Cochrane use of Hugh Smith, against said Perkins. The sale will commence at 11 o'clock, A. M. Terms cash.
WASHINGTON BOYD, Marshal D. C. August 22—2awts
PROPOSALS for carrying the Mails of the United States, on the following Post Roads, will be received at the General Post Office, until the 6th day of September next.
1. From Athens in Georgia, by Apalachy, Flint River, and Coweta to Tuckabatchy on the Mississippi territory estimated at 220 miles, once a week. Leave Athens every Saturday at 1 p. m. and arrive at Tuckabatchy the next Tuesday by 8 o'clock p. m. Leave Tuckabatchy every Wednesday at 4 a. m. and arrive at Athens the next Saturday by 10 o'clock a. m.
2. From Tuckabatchy by Majois Creek on Alabama, or Tensaw to Fort Stoddert, estimated at one hundred and seventy three miles, once a week.
Leave Tuckabatchy every Wednesday at 4 o'clock A. M. and arrived at Fort Stoddert the next Saturday by 10 o'clock A. M. Leave Fort Stoddert every Saturday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Tuckabatchy the next Tuesday by 8 P. M.
3. From Fort Stoddert to Farre's on Pearl River, estimated at 160 miles, once a week. Leave Fort Stoddert every Saturday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Farre's the next Tuesday by 8 o'clock P. M. Leave Farre's at Pearl River every Wednesday at 4 o'clock A. M. & arrive at Fort Stoddert the next Saturday by 10 o'clock A. M.
4. From Farre's on Pearl River to New-Orleans, once a week. Leave New-Orleans every Monday noon, and arrive at Farre's on Tuesday by 8 P. M. Leave Farre's every Wednesday at 4 A. M. and arrive at New Orleans on Thursday by noon.
NOTE 1. If the depending mail shall not have arrived at the time fixed for departure, the contractor shall be bound to wait for it, provided it arrives within six hours after such fixed time.
NOTE 2. For every failure, and for every delay which shall continue so that the depending mail loses a trip, the contractor shall forfeit double the pay he would have received for such a trip, unless the failure shall have been occasioned by unavoidable accident; and in that case, the amount of the pay for such trip shall be forfeited, so that no pay shall be made unless the service is performed.
NOTE 3. For every hours delay, the Contractor shall forfeit one dollar; but no forfeiture for the delay of any one trip can exceed double the value of such trip. The contracts are to commence on the 1st day of October next, and continue in force until the 31st March 1808.
General Post Office, July 20th, 1808.
LANDING THIS DAY,
From on board the schooner MARIA , capt. Fitzhugh, from New York—A quantity of prime St. Croix sugar, Coffee, Molasses, Port Wine, Nuts, Raisins, and Chocolate. Also, Gun-Powder, Inpersi, and Hyson Teas, in chests, half and quarter chests and canisters of this spring's importation, For sale by
ROSS & GETTY. George Town, June 20—tf
FOR SALE.
ON Monday the 10th of October it fair, if not the next fair day, I will offer at public sale, 308 acres of LAND , laying on St. Clement's Bay, and nearly between Chapitico and Leardtown, handsomely situated on the said Bay, with a large and commodious Dwelling House with comfortable dry cellars, a convenient kitchen, dairy, meat house, corn house, stables, barn, and every other necessary outhouse nearly new, and in good order—Eighty acres of the above land is heavily timbered with large white oak, cedar, and some pine—the situation perfectly healthy and within three miles of the river Potomac—fish, oysters, and wild fowl in abundance during the season, and to be had within 300 yards of the door; the soil fertile and a perfect level only whereon the houses stand. One half the purchase money will be required on the first day of January 1809, when possession will be given, and the balance a credit of twelve months will be given from the day of sale on giving bond with approved security. Sale to be on the premises, and to commence at 2 o'clock.
JOHN BOND. St. Mary's county, August 24—3tw.
AMERICAN HEMP. THE Secretary of the Navy will receive until the 1st. November next, proposals for furnishing water rotted Hemp for the growth of the United States, to be delivered either at Portsmouth, N. H.; Boston; New London; New York; Philadelphia; Newcastle; Baltimore; Norfolk; Wilmington, N. C.; Charleston, S. C.; Savannah, Geo. or New Orleans.
For well water rotted and well cleaned American Hemp, the Secretary of the Navy is disposed to allow a liberal price beyond the usual price of such Hemp when dew rotted. Navy Department, May 3—w1N
Prince George's county court, April term, 1808.
HENRY T. COMPTON of Prince George's county having applied to this court, by petition in writing, praying the benefit of the act, entitled "An act for the relief of sundry insolvent debtors," passed at the session of 1805, and the supplement thereto in 1806; and a schedule of his property and list of his creditors as far as he can ascertain them being annexed to his petition; and the court being satisfied by competent testimony that the said Henry T. Compton resided the two last years preceding this application within the state of Maryland. And the said Henry T. Compton being in the custody of the sheriff of Prince George's county; and having entered into bond in such penalty as directed by this court, and with approved security, conditioned for his personal appearance before this court, on the second day of the next term, to answer the allegations of his creditors or creditors. It is by the court ordered that the said Henry T. Compton be discharged from imprisonment, and the said second day of the next term, which will be the sixth day of September next, is by the court appointed for the said Henry T. Compton to appear before this court, to answer interrogatories, which his creditors may propose to him. And it is ordered, that the said Henry T. Compton, give notice to his creditors, of his application, by causing a copy of the foregoing, to be published three months in the National Intelligencer, previous to the next term.
True copy from the proceedings, Test JOHN READ MAGRUDER, Jr. Ck. June 1—w3m
NOTICE.
THE uncertain state of my health, rendering it doubtful, whether I shall be able to do justice to my Clients; I am compelled, (after having finished what business is on hand) to decline the practice of the LAW. I shall, however, be always ready to give an opinion, to any person who may choose to consult with me.
If any gentleman commencing the practice, should be desirous to possess himself of a valuable
PROFESSIONAL LIBRARY, He may be accommodated by applying to me. It consists of several hundred volumes of Reporters and books of Practice. The elementary books in my possession, I shall not dispose of. HENRY HIORT. Capitol Hill, August 24—3t
CHARLES H. VARDEN MERCHANT TAILOR, RESPECTFULLY informs the gentlemen of the district of Columbia and public in general, that he has just received by a late arrival from Philadelphia,
A CHOICE ASSORTMENT Of superfine Cloths, Cassimeres, single and double milled, superfine Coatings, black silk Florentines. Likewise an elegant assortment of Spaniards and rich silk Mole skins for waistcoats with a variety of other articles suitable for the season.
Regimentals and Navy Uniforms made in the most elegant and uniform style of fashion.
Richard Horwell's celebrated patent parallel suspenders far superior to any hitherto in use can be had on the same terms retail, as at his manufactory. November 27—tf
NOTICE.
MERCHANTS and others desirous of forwarding LETTERS to Europe, are hereby informed that a vessel will sail under the orders of Government from Philadelphia, on the 15th of September next, or as soon as may be thereafter, for France and England.
The postage on Letters must be paid to Philadelphia. Department of State, } August 29—6t }
20 DOLLARS REWARD.
ESCAPED from the subscriber on the road leading from George Town towards Leesburg, about 15 miles from the former place, a negro man named LUKE , about 35 years of age, 6 feet high, dark skin, two of his upper fore teeth are out; he has a down cast look, and generally speaks in a low voice; his clothes and name he will probably change, I purchased him of Mr. Theophilus Hughs to take to my residence in Kentucky, he has had several masters about Bladensburg, and he will certainly be lurking about that place as he has a wife, the property of Mr. Isaac Barrett near Bladensburg. I have appointed Mr. Everard Gary of George Town my agent, and the above reward will be paid by him to any person who will deliver the said fellow to Mr. C. Tippett in the city jail.
SAML. M'LEAN. July 25—6w
FOR SALE,
On reasonable terms THREE BRICK HOUSES Belonging to the "Washington Building Company" situated on 12th street west, near Pennsylvania avenue. The buildings are well constructed, and of good materials and well arranged for the accommodation of private families. As calls for Houses in that part of the city have of late been very pressing; and as it is the object and policy of the Company to obtain, without making a sacrifice, funds for the further execution of their Building Plan, they have concluded on this offer.
Apply to Messrs. Michael Nourse & Alexander Cochran or either of them.
N. B. Messrs. Hadfield, Wilson, Evans & Gray, the present occupants, will give every required information. August 19—ep2w
FOR SALE,
BY Virtue of an order of the honorable William Cranch, chief judge of the circuit court of the district of Columbia, will be exposed to public sale, at the house of Mr. Wm. Rhodes in the city of Washington and district of Columbia, on Saturday the 3rd day of September next at 4 o'clock P. M. all the Real & Personal Property of John Banks; amongst which are some valuable Lots, advantageously situated in the said city of Washington.
The terms of sale will be made known at the aforesaid time and place.
JAMES PORTER, Trustee. ALL persons indebted unto John Banks, as also those indebted unto Lowdermilk & Co. late of the city of Washington, are desired to make immediate payment to the subscriber; or he will be reluctantly necessitated, to indiscriminately proceed to a recovery as the law in such cases provides. JA. PORTER. August 10—w3t
THE COMMERCIAL COMPANY OF WASHINGTON.
Now tanding from on board the Sch r . MARIA capt. Fitzhugh, and for
SALS, at low prices. Jamaica Spirit, Antigua & New England Rum, Muscovado Sugars, Molasses, Coffee, Muscadet and bloom Raisins, Hand and country Gin, Spermaceti Candles, Spermaceti Oil, Spanish Segars, Corks,
Powder and Shot of the best quality, White Lead, in oil, A few crates of Stone ware. They have also on hand and for Sale.
Madeira, } Wine by the cask. Marsala, } and Catalonia, } Claret in boxes of 1 doz. each, Cognac, and } Brandy 4th proof. Bordeaux, } Hyson and Young Hyson, Tea, Best Salid Oil, Mould and dipt Candles, Soap, Whiskey, and A few Logs of Mahogany. JOSEPH FORREST, Pr. August 22—3t
WASHINGTON JOCKEY CLUB RACES.
ON Tuesday the 25th day of OCTOBER next, will be run for over the Washington course, a Purse of five hundred dollars, four miles and repeat—free for any horse, mare, or gelding.
On Wednesday the 26th will be run for, a Purse of three hundred and fifty dollars, three miles and repeat—free as above, the winning horse of the preceding day excepted—and On Thursday the 27th will be run for, "The City and Town Purse," of three hundred dollars, two miles and repeat—free only for colts and fillies—Each race to be run and conducted agreeably to the rules of the Club.
The Purse will probably be considerably larger than has been stated. The amount of each cannot be stated with positive certainty, because it is made up, in part, from the tolls collected at the gates, and from the rent of the booths.
SAMUEL BOOTES, Sec. George Town, August 31—3t
N. B. The members of the Club are particularly requested to meet at the Union Tavern, at 6 o'clock on the evening of the day preceding the first day's race, in conformity to a standing rule of the Club. S. B.
COMMERCIAL COMPANY OF WASHINGTON.
THE STOCKHOLDERS are informed that Certificates of Stock are prepared and the transfer book open.
JOSEPH FORREST, Pr. August 31—tf
PROPOSAL,
By JOSEPH MILLIGAN, George Town, For publishing by Subscription, ADELINÉ MOWBRAY;
OR THE MOTHER & DAUGHTER. IN TWO VOLUMES.
By MRS. OPIE.
CUSTOM, and perhaps propriety, have rendered it necessary to bespeak the favorable opinion of the public to a new book: but the writings of Mrs. Opie have long held such an undisputed claim to excellence, that nothing more seems necessary than to point out the leading object of the present very interesting tale, to recommend it to general patronage.
Those who have attentively read the writings of Mr. Godwin, well know, that however correct his abstract positions, and however logical his deductions may be—still they are, in many instances, by no means suited to the actual state of society. His opinions on the matrimonial engagement would, if generally adopted, infallibly destroy those bonds which are at once the most efficacious restraint upon licentious passion, and the best, nay the only security for domestic happiness. To counteract his fatal theory appears to be the principal design of the work now offered—in which the characters are so well supported, the incidents arise so naturally from the situations in which they are placed, the reasoning is so perfectly just, the whole narrative so beautifully pathetic, and the impression which it is calculated to produce on every ingenious mind, so favorable to the cause of morality, that the publisher confidently anticipates its meeting the same universal applause in this country which it obtained in England.
CONDITIONS.
To those who may subscribe before the first of October next, the price will be seventy-cents per volume, in boards, after which it will be advanced to eighty-seven and a half cents per volume. August 12—cop1m
ATTENTION!!
THE MEMBERS composing the WASHINGTON POLEMIC SOCIETY,
are hereby notified, that the Society will meet at the MASONIC HALL on SATURDAY the THIRD of SEPTEMBER , at SEVEN o'clock P. M. PUNCTUAL attendance is requested.
By order of the PRESIDENT, SAMUEL SPOTS, Secretary. Aug. 31—2t.
I WILL RENT for the next year, several LARGE FARMS , situated on the Potomac in the state of Virginia , about 20 miles above this place. These Farms will all be seeded at the proper season with Wheat and delivered up to the persons that rent on the first day of January next, or sooner if required—they will be shown to any persons desirous of renting by Mr. James Middle-ton , who resides at M'Carthy's island near them, or by the subscriber. JOHN W. BRONOUGH. George Town, August 31—4w
EXTENSION OF 17TH STREET WHARF.
PROPOSALS for erecting a Platform Wharf to be extended from the end of 17th street Wharf at the mouth of the Tiber will be received by Messrs. Abraham Bradley, Michael Nourse, and John P. Van Ness , or either of them until the 5th of September next. The Wharf to be 200 feet long and 25 feet wide. It is to consist of three ranges of White Oak piles of 25 feet long, and 12 inches diameter, placed at intervals of 15 feet, with cross braces of 15 feet long, squared 4 by 8 inches, from the middle to the outside piles; and three tiers of string pieces 6 by 12 inches, squared, and framed to the butts of the piles lengthwise of the Wharf, to be covered with white oak plank, three inches thick, or pine four inches thick, and spiked.
Joint or separate proposals will be received for the materials and workmanship, or any part. The Timber to be sound and free of sap, and delivered forthwith. August 31—3t
FOR SALE.
ON Saturday the 10th day of September next, at the Hotel occupied by P. D. Stelle , all the HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE of said Stelle, consisting of Beds and Bedding, Burettes, Tables, Chairs, and Furniture to a large extent.
Terms of sale, all sums of 20 dollars or under, cash, above 20 and not exceeding 50 dollars, negotiable notes at thirty days with approved endorsers, and all sums above 50 dollars, notes at sixty days with approved endorsers. The sale to commence at 11 o'clock. PONTIUS D. STELLE. August 30—tds
PUBLIC SALE.
WHEREAS the subscriber intends to break up his present establishment, he will, at 11 o'clock in the morning of the first day of the next month (September) expose to sale, a quantity Plate, Linen, and China. Some valuable Pictures will at the same time be offered for sale, should no person be desirous privately to make a bargain for them before that period.
The terms of sale, cash, for all Lots under 20 dollars, and above that sum Negotiable Notes with an approved endorser at sixty days date.
HENRY HIORT, Capitol Hill, at a house of Mr. Ingle's on the New Jersey avenue