The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1804-02-29 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER,
AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. IV.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
No. DXXX.
FIVE DOLLS. PER ANN.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29th, 1804.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
(BY AUTHORITY.)
AN ACT
An act Supplementary to an act, intitled "An act to incorporate the inhabitants of the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia."
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the act intitled "An act to incorporate the inhabitants of the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia," except so much of the same as is inconsistent with the provisions of this act, be and the same is hereby continued in force for and during the term of fifteen years from the end of the next session of Congress.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the council of the city of Washington, from and after the period for which the members of the present council have been elected, shall consist of two chambers, each of which shall be composed of nine members, to be chosen by distinct ballots, according to the directions of the act to which this is a supplement; a majority of each chamber shall constitute a quorum to do business; In case vacancies shall occur in the council, the chamber in which the same may happen shall supply the same by an election, by ballot from the three persons next highest on the list, to those elected at the preceding election; and a majority of the whole number of the chamber in which such vacancy may happen, shall be necessary to make an election.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the council shall have power to establish and regulate the inspection of flour, tobacco and salted provisions, the guaging of casks and liquors, the storage of gunpowder, and all naval and military stores, not the property of the United States, to regulate the weight and quality of bread; to tax and licence hawkers and pedlars; to restrain or prohibit tippling houses, lotteries, and all kinds of gaming; to superintend the health of the city; to preserve the navigation of the Potomac and Anacostia rivers, adjoining the city; to erect, repair and regulate public wharves, and to deepen docks and basins; to provide for the establishment and superintendence of public schools; to licence and regulate, exclusively, hackney coaches, ordinary keepers, retailers and ferrys; to provide for the appointment of inspectors, constables, and such other officers as may be necessary to execute the laws of the corporation; and to give such compensation to the mayor of the city as they may deem fit.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That the levy court of the county of Washington, shall not hereafter possess the power of imposing any tax on the inhabitants of the city of Washington.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOHN BROWN, President of the Senate pro tempore. February 24, 1804. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
For the relief of the captors of the Moroccan armed ship Meshouda and Mirbaha.
Be it enacted, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the sum of eight thousand five hundred and ninety-four dollars, and fifty cents, being one moiety of the value of the armed ship Meshouda, captured by the frigate John Adams, commanded by capt. John Rodgers, and restored to the Emperor of Morocco, be and the same is hereby appropriated for defraying the expense of prize money due to the captors; and that the further sum of seven hundred and thirty-eight dollars, and twenty-five cents, be, and the same hereby is appropriated for defraying the expenses incurred for the said ship, whilst in possession of the captors.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOHN BROWN, President of the Senate pro tempore. February 24, 1804. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
For laying and collecting duties on imports and tonnage within the territories ceded to the United States by the treaty of the thirtieth of April, one thousand eight hundred and three, between the United States, and the French Republic; and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the same duties which by law now are, or hereafter may be laid on goods, wares, and merchandise imported into the United States, on the tonnage of vessels, and on the passports and clearances of vessels, shall be laid and collected on goods, wares and merchandise imported into the territories ceded to the United States, by the treaty of the thirtieth of April, one thousand eight hundred and three, between the United States and the French Republic; and on vessels arriving in, or departing from the said territories; And the following acts, that is to say the act entitled,
An act to establish the treasury department,
An act concerning the registering and recording of ships and vessels,
An act for enrolling and licensing ships or vessels to be employed in the coasting trade and fisheries,
An act to regulate the collection of duties on imports and tonnage,
An act to establish the compensations of officers employed in the collection of the duties on imports and tonnage, and for other purposes,
An act for the more effectual recovery of debts due from individuals to the United States,
And an act to provide more effectually for the settlement of accounts between the United States and receivers of public money,
An act to authorise the sale and conveyance of lands in certain cases, by the marshals of the United States, and to confirm former sales,
An act to provide for mitigating or remitting the forfeitures, penalties and disabilities accruing in certain cases therein mentioned,
An act to establish a mint, and to regulate the coins of the United States,
An act regulating foreign coins, and for other purposes,
And the act supplementary to and amendatory of the two last mentioned acts, or so much of the said acts as is now in force, and also so much of any other act or acts of the United States as is now in force, or may be hereafter enacted, for laying any duties on imports, tonnage, seamen or shipping, for regulating and securing the collection of the same, and for regulating the compensations of the officers employed in the collection of the same; for granting and regulating drawbacks, bounties and allowances in lieu of drawbacks; concerning the registering, recording, enrolling and licensing of ships and vessels; to provide for the settlement of accounts between the United States and individuals; for the recovery of debts due to the United States; and for remitting forfeitures, penalties and disabilities; shall extend to and have full force and effect in the above mentioned territories: Provided however, and it is hereby further enacted, that ships or vessels which on the twentieth day of December last were owned by persons then residing in the above mentioned territories and who either were citizens of the United States, or had resided in the said territories during five years next preceding, shall be entitled to the benefits and privileges of vessels of the United States, whilst they shall continue to be wholly owned by such persons, or by citizens of the United States; Provided, nevertheless, that the persons claiming such privileges for their ships or vessels, shall in every other respect comply with the provisions of the acts for registering, recording, enrolling and licensing of ships or vessels, and who, if not citizens of the United States, shall have previously taken an oath of allegiance to the United States; which oath the collector of the port is hereby authorised to administer.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That so much of any act or acts of the United States now in force, or which may be hereafter enacted, concerning the bank of the United States, and for the punishment of frauds committed on
the same; for the relief of sick and disabled seamen; for the protection of American seamen; for the government and regulation of seamen in the merchant service; and for preventing the exportation of goods not duly inspected; shall extend to and have full force and effect in the above mentioned territories.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That so much of any law, or laws, laying any duties on the importation into the United States of goods, wares, and merchandise from the said territories, (or allowing drawbacks on the importation of the same from the United States to the said territories,) or respecting the commercial intercourse between the United States and the said territories, or between the several parts of the United States through the said territories, which is inconsistent with the provisions of the preceding section, be, and the same hereby is repealed: and all duties on the exportation of goods, wares, and merchandise from the said territories, as well as all duties on the importation of goods, wares, and merchandise into the said territories, on the transfer of ships or vessels, and on the tonnage of vessels, other than those laid by virtue of the laws of the United States, shall, from the time when this act shall commence to be in force, cease and determine: Provided however, That nothing herein contained shall be construed to affect the fees and other charges usually paid in the said territories on account of pilotage, wharfage, or the right of anchoring by the levy of the city of New Orleans, which several fees and charges shall, until otherwise directed, continue to be paid and applied to the same purposes as heretofore.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That, to the end that the laws providing for the collection of the duties imposed, by law, on goods, wares, and merchandise, imported into the United States, and on the tonnage of ships and vessels, and the laws respecting the revenue and navigation of the United States may be carried into effect, within the said territories, the territories ceded to the United States, by the treaty above mentioned, and also all the navigable waters of the rivers, creeks, bays, and inlets, lying within the United States, which empty into the gulf of Mexico, east of the river Mississippi, shall be annexed to the Mississippi district, and shall, together with the same, constitute one district, to be called the "District of Mississippi."
The city of New Orleans shall be the sole port of entry in the said district, and the town of Bayou St. John shall be a port of delivery; a collector, naval officer, and surveyor shall be appointed to reside at New Orleans, and a surveyor shall be appointed to reside at the port of Bayou St. John; and the President of the United States is hereby authorised to appoint, not exceeding three surveyors, to reside at such other places, within the said district, as he shall deem expedient, and to constitute each, or either of such places ports of delivery only. And so much of any law or laws, as establishes a district on the river Mississippi, south of the river Tennessee, is hereby repealed, except as to the recovery and receipt of such duties on goods, wares, and merchandise, and on the tonnage of ships or vessels, as shall have accrued, and as to the recovery and distribution of fines, penalties, and forfeitures, which shall have been incurred before the commencement of the operation of this act.
Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That the shores and waters of the town of Natchez, shall be one district, to be called the district of Natchez; and a collector shall be appointed, who shall reside at Natchez, which shall be the only port of entry or delivery within the said district of any goods, wares, and merchandise, not the growth or manufacture of the United States: Provided nevertheless, That it shall be the duty of every master or commander of any ship or vessel destined for the said port of Natchez, to stop at New Orleans, and there deliver to the collector of the said port a manifest of the cargo on board such ship or vessel, agreeably to law, on penalty of five thousand dollars. And it shall be the duty of said collector to transmit a certified copy of such manifest to the collector of the said port of Natchez, and to direct an inspector to go on board such ship or vessel and proceed therewith to the port of Natchez, and there report such ship or vessel to the collector of said port of Natchez, immediately after his arrival, when the duty of said inspector shall cease.
Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That foreign ships or vessels shall be admitted to unload at the port of New Orleans, and at no other port within the district of Mississippi; and ships or vessels belonging to citizens of the United States, coming directly from France or Spain, or any of their colonies, shall not be admitted to unload at any port within the district of Mississippi other than New Orleans; and ships or vessels arriving from the Cape of Good Hope, or from any place beyond the same, shall be admitted to make entry at the port of New Orleans, and at no other port within the district of Mississippi: Provided however, That nothing in this act contained, shall authorise the allowing of drawbacks on the exportation of any goods, wares, and merchandise from the said port of New Orleans, other than on those which shall have been imported directly into the same, from a foreign port or place.
Sec. 7. And be it further enacted, That the master or commander of every ship or vessel, bound to a port of delivery only, other than the port of Bayou St. John, in the district of Mississippi, shall first come to at the port of New Orleans with his ship or vessel, and there make report and entry, in writing, and pay, or secure to be paid, all legal duties, port fees, and charges, in manner provided by law, before such ship or vessel shall proceed to her port of delivery; and any ship or vessel, bound to the port of Bayou St. John, may first proceed to the said port, and afterwards make report and entry at the port of New Orleans, within the time by law limited; and the master of every ship or vessel, arriving from a foreign port or place, or having goods on board of which the duties have not been paid or secured, and bound to any port within the district of Mississippi (other than New Orleans, or Bayou St. John) shall take an inspector on board, at New Orleans, before proceeding to such port; and if any master of a ship or vessel, shall proceed to such port of delivery, contrary to the directions aforesaid, he shall forfeit and pay five hundred dollars, to be recovered in any court of competent jurisdiction, with the costs of suit.
Sec. 8. And be it further enacted, That during the term of twelve years, to commence three months after the exchange of the ratifications of the above mentioned treaty shall have been noticed, at Paris, to the French government, French ships, or vessels, coming directly from France, or any of her colonies, laden only with the produce or manufactures of France, or any of her said colonies; and Spanish ships or vessels, coming directly from Spain, or any of her colonies, laden only with the produce or manufactures of Spain, or any of her said colonies, shall be admitted into the port of New Orleans, and into all other ports of entry which may hereafter be established by law, within the territories ceded to the United States by the above mentioned treaty, in the same manner as ships or vessels of the United States, coming directly from France or Spain, or any of their colonies, and without being subject to any other, or higher duty on the said produce or manufacture, than by law now is, or shall, at the time, be payable, by citizens of the United States on similar articles, imported from France or Spain, or any of their colonies, in vessels of the United States; into the said port of New Orleans, or other ports of entry in the territories above mentioned; or to any other, or higher tonnage duty, than by law now is, or shall at the time be, laid on the tonnage of vessels of the United States coming from France, or Spain, or from any of their colonies, to the said port of New Orleans, or other ports of entry within the territories above mentioned.
Sec. 9. And be it further enacted, That the collector of the district of Mississippi shall give bond for the true and faithful discharge of his duties, in the sum of fifteen thousand dollars, and shall be allowed in addition to the fees and emoluments of his office, in lieu of all other commissions, one and a half per cent. on all monies by him received, on account of the duties arising from goods, wares and merchandise imported into the said district, and on the tonnage of ships and vessels; and the naval officers and surveyors of the said district shall, respectively, receive an annual compensation of two hundred and fifty dollars, in addition to their other fees and emoluments.
Sec. 10. And be it further enacted, That the President of the United States be, and he hereby is authorised, to cause to be built and equipped one revenue cutter, in addition to those
heretofore authorised by law, which cutter may be officered, manned and employed, in the same manner, and the expense thereof shall be paid out of the same fund, as is provided for defraying the expense of the revenue cutters heretofore authorised by law.
Sec. 11. And be it further enacted, That the President of the United States be, and he hereby is authorised, whenever he shall deem it expedient, to erect the shores, waters and inlets of the bay and river Mobile, and of the other rivers, creeks, inlets, and bays emptying into the gulf of Mexico, east of the said river Mobile, and west thereof to the Pascagoula inclusive, into a separate district, and to establish such place within the same, as he shall deem expedient, to be the port of entry and delivery for such district; and to designate such other places, within the same district, not exceeding two, to be ports of delivery only. Whenever such separate district shall be erected, a collector shall be appointed, to reside at the port of entry; and a surveyor shall likewise be appointed, to reside at each of the ports of delivery; which may be established, and such collector and surveyor shall be entitled to receive, in addition to their other fees and emoluments, an annual salary of two hundred and fifty dollars. And the said collector shall give bond for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office in the sum of five thousand dollars.
Sec. 12. And be it further enacted, That this act shall commence thirty days after the passing thereof.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOHN BROWN, President of the Senate pro tempore. February 24th, 1804. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
To amend the charter of Alexandria.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the town of Alexandria shall be, and is hereby divided into two districts, by a line running east and west, at an equal distance between King and Prince streets, beginning at the river Potomac and extending to the western boundary of said town; and all that part of the town which is situate north of the said dividing line, shall be called the northern district, and all that part of the town which is situate south of the said dividing line, shall be called the southern district of the town of Alexandria, and where any house or lot shall be situate partly in each district, it shall be considered as lying in that district where the greater part of said house or lot is situate and shall be assessed accordingly, each of the districts aforesaid shall be divided into two electoral wards, by a line passing from north to south through the middle of Pitt street, to be called the first, second, third and fourth ward, none of the taxes on the valuation of real property, which shall hereafter be collected in the northern district, shall be expended in the regulating, or filling up, or paving, or repairing of the streets, or linking of wells, or building of bridges in the southern district, nor shall the taxes on the valuation of real property, which shall hereafter be collected in the southern district, be expended in the regulating, or filling up, or paving, or repairing of the streets, or linking of wells, or building of bridges in the northern district. But all the monies to be expended upon the aforesaid improvements in either district, shall be raised by an assessment on the valuation of real property in each district respectively, at the times and in the manner the said common council shall order and direct. It shall be the duty of the assessors and other public officers to keep the accounts of each district separate and distinct in regard to the assessments for the aforesaid local purposes, and all other taxes, which are now or shall hereafter be assessed or levied, upon the valuation of real property or other subjects, together with the fines and also the rents, issuing from the property belonging to the corporation and all their other resources, shall constitute a general fund, to be appropriated as the common council shall direct.
Sec. 2. Be it further enacted, That every free white male citizen of full age, who shall be bona fide seized of a freehold estate in the town of Alexandria, or who shall have resided in the town aforesaid for the space of one year, and have been a house-keeper therein for the space of three months next preceding the day of the election, and who shall

have been within that time charged with any tax upon the public books, and shall have paid such tax, shall be qualified to vote for members to serve in the common council of the said town, and no other person shall exercise the right of suffrage; and the persons qualified as aforesaid to vote shall meet at some convenient place in the ward in which they respectively reside, and elect by ballot four persons for the representatives of such ward in the common council, out of the free white male citizens who shall have arrived to the age of twenty one years, and shall have resided in the town of Alexandria three years, and in the ward for which he shall be elected, for the space of three months immediately preceding the election, and shall moreover be seized of an estate of freehold in the said ward of the value of five hundred dollars, and be a house-keeper therein. And that the said election shall be held on the first Tuesday of March in every year, by three commissioners to be appointed in each ward for that purpose by the mayor and commonality for the ensuing election, and afterwards by the common council, which appointment shall be at least ten days before the day of each election, except in regard to the first election to be held under this act. The election for the ensuing year, shall be held at such place in each ward as shall be fixed on by the mayor and commonality, and the said election shall be held at such place as shall be appointed by the common council, of which public notice shall be given.
Sec. 3. Be it further enacted , That the members of the common council, elected as aforesaid, or any twelve of them, shall within seven days after their election, in each year assemble themselves at the court house, or any other place which shall be hereafter fixed for their meeting, and shall choose one of their body to be president of the said common council to whom shall be administered by any justice of the peace in the county of Alexandria, an oath or affirmation for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office; whereupon the President of the said common council shall administer the oath of office to the other members of the said council, and shall have while the council is in session the same power which is at present exercised by the mayor upon the like occasion, and he shall convene the council whenever in the opinion of four of the members expressed to him in writing, or whenever in his opinion the good of the town may require it: and the authority of the said common council shall continue one year from the day of their election, and until others are chosen and qualified in their stead, and no longer. That the common council so elected, and their successors, shall be and hereby are made a body politic and corporate, by the name of the common council of Alexandria; and by the said name shall have perpetual succession with capacity to purchase, possess and enjoy lands and tenements, and goods and chattels either in fee or lesser estate, therein, and the same to give, grant, let, sell, assign or transfer; and to plead and be impleaded, prosecute and defend all causes, complaints, actions real, personal or mixed, and to have one common seal, and perpetual succession. And all the estate, rights, and credits, now vested in the mayor and commonality of the town of Alexandria shall be vested in the said common council when elected, and may be recovered in their name for the use of the said town; and in like manner all claims and demands against the mayor and commonality of Alexandria, prior to the operation of the present act, may be prosecuted and recovered against the aforesaid common council; and process served upon the president of the common council shall be deemed sufficient.
Sec. 4. Be it further enacted , That the jurisdiction of the said common council shall extend to the limits heretofore prescribed by law, and exercised by the mayor and commonality. The concurrence of a majority of the whole number of members elected into the common council, shall be necessary for the passing of any law, order, or resolution, or for repealing, altering, or revoking the same.
Sec. 5. Be it further enacted , That the said common council shall have power to erect and repair work houses, houses of correction, and other public buildings, for the benefit of the said town; to pave, make and repair the streets and highways; to make all laws which they shall conceive requisite for the preservation of the health of the inhabitants, and for the regulation of the morals and police of the said town, and to enforce the observance of their said laws, by reasonable penalties and forfeitures, to be levied upon the goods and chattels of the offender; and they shall have power to raise money by taxes, for the use and benefit of the said town: Provided , That such laws shall not be repugnant to, or inconsistent with the laws and constitution of the United States. The said common council shall, whenever they deem it proper, have power to open, extend, regulate, pave, and improve the streets, within the limits of the said town: Provided ,
They make to the person or persons who may be injured by such extension, just and adequate compensation out of the funds of the corporation, to be ascertained by the verdict of an impartial jury, in like manner as has been usual in other cases where private property has been condemned for public use. They shall have power to hold and keep within the said town, market days in every week, and from time to time to appoint a clerk of the market, who shall do and perform all things belonging to the office of clerk of the market, within the said town, according to the rules and regulations which they shall prescribe. They shall have power to pass all laws, not inconsistent with the laws of the United States, which they may conceive requisite for the prevention and removal of nuisances, and to appoint a superintendent of police, commissioners, and surveyors of the streets, constables, collectors of the taxes, and all other officers who may be deemed necessary for the execution of their laws, who shall be paid for their services, a reasonable compensation, and whose duties and powers shall be prescribed in such manner as the common council shall deem fit, for carrying into execution the powers hereby granted.
Sec. 6. Be it further enacted , That the jurisdiction of the said common council shall extend over the harbor of Alexandria, and over vessels of every description, which may arrive and be in the harbor, or be at anchor in any part of the river Potomac below Pearson's island, and within the district of Columbia, for the purpose of preventing and removing all nuisances, and such other subjects or things being on board any such vessel, as may be prejudicial to the health of the town, and for no other purpose. And also, their jurisdiction shall extend over the house lately built in the vicinity of the town, for the accommodation of the poor and others, and over the ten acres of ground thereunto belonging, and over all persons who may be sent or placed there by the consent or authority of the common council, and on their way to and from the same, until they be regularly discharged: Provided , That paupers and other persons shall not be considered as having thereby gained a residence in the county, so as to become chargeable thereto.
Sec. 7. Be it further enacted , That the common council shall annually, at their first meeting after their own election and qualification, choose by ballot, a fit and able man, having the qualifications herein after directed, to be mayor of the town, which choice shall be made by a majority of the whole number of members of the said common council, unless the whole number of members be equally divided between two persons, in which case one of those two persons shall be immediately, by the vote of the president of the council, elected. The mayor shall hold his office for one year, from the time of his election, and until a successor is chosen and qualified in his stead. At the expiration of which period he may be re-elected for two years thereafter in succession, and no longer until he shall have been out of office for one year. He shall, before he enters upon the duties of his office, take an oath or affirmation, in the presence of the council, faithfully to execute his said office, which shall be recorded in their book of proceedings. He shall see that the laws of the corporation be duly executed, and shall report the negligence or misconduct of any officer to the common council, who on satisfactory proof thereof, may remove from office the said delinquent, or take such other measures thereupon as shall be just and lawful. He shall have power to convene the common council, when in his opinion the good of the community may require it, and he shall lay before the council, from time to time, in writing, such alterations in the laws of the corporation, as he shall deem necessary or proper. He shall have, and exercise all the powers of a justice of the peace within the said town, and shall receive for his services, annually, a just and reasonable compensation, to be allowed and fixed by the common council, which shall not be increased or diminished during the period for which he shall have been elected. Any person shall be eligible to the office of mayor, who is a white male citizen of the United States, who shall have attained to the age of thirty years, and who shall be the bona fide owner of a freehold estate in the said town, and shall have been a resident in the town of Alexandria five years immediately preceding his election, and no other person shall be eligible to the said office.
Sec. 8. Be it further enacted , That in case of the refusal of any person to accept the office of mayor upon his election thereto, or of his death, resignation, inability or removal, the common council shall elect another in his place to serve the remainder of the year. The common council shall have power to supply vacancies in their own body, by causing elections to be made in manner herein before directed out of the citizens qualified to fill the said office in the ward in which such vacancies shall have happened;
and may in the absence of the president, elect a president pro tempore. In case of the temporary inability or absence of the mayor, the president of the common council shall perform all the duties of the mayor that may be required to be performed during his absence or inability, and in case of vacancy in the said office he shall perform the duties thereof until a new election shall be made.
Sec. 9. And be it further enacted , That the acts of the common council shall be signed by the president of the common council and shall be presented to the mayor for his approbation, who, if he objects thereto, shall within three days after it shall be presented to him for his assent return it to the common council with his objections in writing, and if a majority of the whole council shall be of opinion that the law ought to be passed, it shall, notwithstanding the objections of the mayor, become a law and be signed by him. The clerk of the council shall record in a book to be kept by him for that purpose, all the laws orders and resolutions which shall be passed as aforesaid, and deliver a copy of them to the public printer to be printed for the information of the people.
Sec. 10. Be it further enacted , That the commissioners to superintend the election in each ward, shall before they receive any vote, take severally the following oath or affirmation, to be administered by the mayor or any justice of the peace, "I A. B. do solemnly swear or affirm (as the case may be) that I will truly and faithfully receive and return the votes of such persons as are by law entitled to vote for members of council in ward No. _____ and that I will not knowingly receive or return the vote of any who is not legally entitled to the same, so help me God;" the said election shall be closed on the day it is begun, and the poll shall be kept open until full sun set and no longer. The said commissioners in each ward or a majority of them shall, on the next day after the election, make a list of all the votes received at said election; and the four persons having the greatest number of votes, shall be duly elected; and in all cases of an equality of votes, the commissioners shall decide, and shall make a return of the persons so elected, under their hands and seals, to the mayor, who shall cause the same to be published in the newspapers of the town; the said commissioners shall also send a duplicate return, under their hands and seals, of the persons elected, to the clerk of the common council, who shall preserve and record the same; the said common council shall judge of the legality of the election of any person who shall be returned as a member thereof, and shall have full power to pass all laws to enable them to come to a just decision upon a contested election. They shall have power to compel the attendance of the members of the council by reasonable penalties, and to pass all laws for the orderly and regular conduct of business. They may punish any member for disorderly behavior, and with consent of three fourths of the whole council expel a member.
Sec. 11. Be it further enacted , That whenever taxes upon real property, or other claims charged upon real property within the town, shall be due, and owing to the common council, and the proprietor shall fail to discharge the same, the said common council, after giving the party reasonable notice when he resides in the town, sixty days notice when he resides out of the town, and in the United States, and after six months publication in the newspapers, when he resides out of the United States, shall be empowered to recover the said taxes or debts, by motion in the court of Alexandria county: And provided , it shall appear to the satisfaction of the court, that such taxes or claims are justly due, judgement shall issue thereupon, with the costs of suit, against the goods and chattels of the defaulter, if any can be found within the town; if not that the whole property upon which the tax or claim is due shall by order of the court, be seized and sold at auction for the shortest terms of years that may be offered on condition that the lessee pay the arrears, and also the future taxes accruing during the term, and be at liberty to remove all his improvements at the expiration of the lease: Provided always , That the common council may prosecute any other remedy, by action, for the recovery of the said taxes and claims which is now possessed or allowed.
Sec. 12. And be it further enacted , That so much of any act or acts of the general assembly of Virginia, as comes within the purview of this act shall be and the same is hereby repealed: Provided , That nothing herein contained shall be construed to impair or destroy any right or remedy which the mayor and commonality of Alexandria now possess or enjoy to or concerning any debts, claims or demands against any person or persons whatsoever, or to repeal any of the laws and ordinances of the mayor and commonality of the said
town in force, which are not inconsistent with this act.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOHN BROWN, President of the Senate pro tempore. February 25th, 1804.
APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON. AN ACT Relating to the recording, registering and enrolling of ships or vessels in the district of Orleans.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That any ship or vessel possessed of and sailing under a Spanish or French register, and belonging, on the twentieth day of December, one thousand eight hundred and three, and continuing to belong wholly to any citizen or citizens of the United States, then residing within the territories ceded to the United States, by the treaty of the thirtieth of April, one thousand eight hundred and three, between the United States and the French republic, or to any person or persons being, on the said thirtieth day of April, an inhabitant or inhabitants of the said ceded territories, and who continue to reside therein, and of which the master is a citizen of the United States, or an inhabitant as aforesaid, may be registered, enrolled and licensed in the manner prescribed by law; and being so registered, enrolled or licensed, shall be denominated and deemed a ship or vessel of the United States, and entitled to the benefits granted by any law of the United States to ships or vessels thereof: Provided , That it shall be lawful for the collector to whom application shall be made for a certificate of registry, enrolment or license for such ship or vessel by any citizen or inhabitant as aforesaid, to make such variations in the forms of the oaths, certificates, and licenses, as shall render them applicable to the cases herein intended to be provided for: And provided also , that every such inhabitant applying as aforesaid, shall, prior to his being entitled to receive such certificate of registry, enrolment, or license, deposit with the collector, the register and other papers under which such ship or vessel had been navigated; and also take and subscribe, before the collector (who is hereby authorised to administer the same) the following oath: I. A. B. do swear (or affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to the United States of America, and that I do entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to every foreign prince, potentate state or sovereignty whatever, and particularly to the king of Spain and the French republic.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted , That the inhabitants of the said ceded territory who were residents thereof on the thirtieth day of April, one thousand eight hundred and three, who shall take the oath aforesaid, and who continue to reside therein, or citizens of the United States residents of said ceded territory, shall be entitled to all the benefits and privileges of owning ships or vessels of the United States, to all intents and purposes, as if they were resident citizens of the United States.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOHN BROWN, President of the Senate pro tempore. February 25, 1804.
APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON. CONGRESS. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Debate on imposing a tax on the importation of slaves.
TUESDAY, February 14. The following motion, offered by Mr. Bird, was taken into consideration in committee of the whole—Mr. Varnum in the chair.
Resolved, that a tax of ten dollars be imposed on every slave imported into any part of the United States.
On the motion of Mr. Jackson, it was agreed to add after the word "United States"—"or their territories."
Mr. LOWNDES.—I shall trespass but a very short time upon the attention of the House at this stage of the business, but as I have objections to the resolution, it may be proper that I should state them now. I will do so briefly, referring to myself the privilege of giving my opinion more at length when the bill is before the House, should the resolution be adopted, and a bill brought in. I am sorry, Mr. Speaker, to find that the conduct of the legislature of the state of South Carolina, in repealing its law prohibitory of the importation of negroes, has excited so much dissatisfaction and resentment as I find it has done with the far greater part of this House. If gentlemen will take a dispassionate review of the circumstances under which this repeal was made, I think this dissatisfaction and resentment will be removed, and I should indulge the hope that this contemplated tax will not be imposed. Antecedent to
the adoption of the constitution under which we now act, the legislature of South Carolina passed an act prohibiting the importation of negroes from Africa, sanctioned by severe penalties. I speak from recollection, but I believe not less than the forfeiture of the negro and a hundred pounds sterling for each brought into the state, and this act has been continued in force until it was repealed by the legislature at its last session. This long interdiction, I think, manifests on the part of the government of the state a disinclination to this trade, and had we received the aid from Congress which was necessary to enforce the act, the repeal which is now complained of would never in my opinion have taken place. But, Mr. Speaker, the state was unable to enforce its law. It had given up to the government of the United States all revenue derived from foreign imposts, and was therefore necessarily divested of the means of preventing the introduction into the country from sea, of whatever the excitements to gain might allure into it. The geographical situation of our country is not unknown. With navigable rivers running into the heart of it, it was impossible with our means to prevent our eastern brethren, who in some parts of the union, in defiance of the authority of the general government, have been engaged in this trade, from introducing them into the country. The law was completely evaded, and for the last year or two, Africans were introduced into the country, in numbers little short I believe of what they would have been, had the trade been a legal one. Under these circumstances, Sir, it appears to me to have been the duty of the legislature to repeal the law, and remove from the eyes of the people the spectacle of its authority being daily violated.
I beg, Sir, that from what I have said it may not be inferred, that I am friendly to a continuation of the slave trade. So far from it that without advertising to considerations, by which I know other gentlemen are influenced, I think the period has passed when the interests of the country required and her policy dictated that an end should be put to it. With the time was arrived when Congress could legislate conclusively upon the subject. I should then have the satisfaction of uniting with the gentleman from Pennsylvania, who moved the resolution. Whenever it does arrive, should I then have a seat in this House, I will assure him, I will cordially support him in obtaining his object. But, Mr. Speaker, I cannot vote for this resolution, because I am sure it is not calculated to promote the object which it had in view. I am convinced that the tax of ten dollars will not prevent the introduction into the country of a single slave. Gentlemen must be sensible of the truth of this observation when they are informed, and the fact is so notorious even to be doubted, that notwithstanding the expense and risk which attend an illicit trade, they have been introduced in very great numbers. Was I friendly to the trade, I should, without any hesitation, embrace the proposition contained in the resolution, and I should consider it a point gained of no small importance, that the legislature of the general government had given a sanction to it, for I can regard the government deriving a revenue from it, in no other light than a sanction. The gentleman from Pennsylvania, and those who think with him ought, above all others, to deprecate the passing of this resolution. It appears to me to be directly calculated to defeat their own object—to give to what they wish to discountenance a legislative sanction; and farther an interest to the government in permitting this trade after the period, when it might constitutionally terminate it. When I say that I am myself unfriendly to it, I do not wish, Mr. Speaker, to be misunderstood—I do not mean to convey the idea that the people of the southern states are universally opposed to it—I know the fact to be otherwise. Many of the people in the southern states feel an interest in it, and will yield it with reluctance. Their interest will be strengthened by the immense accession of territory to the United States by the cession of Louisiana. Gentlemen cannot foresee what the situation of the country will be when the period arrives when Congress may constitutionally interdict the trade. The finances of the country and the exigencies of the times may be such as to prevent the government from dispensing with any part of its revenue. The tax if imposed will undoubtedly produce a revenue, and in proportion to the amount of this revenue will be the interest of the government in the trade. But, Mr. Speaker, my greatest objection to this tax is, that it will fall exclusively upon the agriculture of the state, of which I am one of the Representatives. However odious it may be to some gentlemen, and however desirous they may be of discountenancing it, I think it must be evident that this tax will not effect their object;—that it will not be a discouragement to the trade, nor will the introduction of a single African into the country be prevented. The only result will be, that it will produce a revenue to the government. I trust that no gentleman is desirous of establishing the

tax with a view to revenue. The state of South-Carolina contributes as largely to the revenue of the United States for its population and wealth, as any state in the union. To impose a tax falling exclusively on her agriculture would be the height of injustice, and I hope that the Representatives of the landed interest of the nation, will resist every measure, however general in its appearance, the tendency of which is to lay a partial and unequal tax on agriculture.
Mr. BEDINGER observed that the gentleman from South Carolina had to fully expressed the opinions he entertained that he should say but little. Every body who knew his opinions on slavery might think strange the vote he should give against the resolution. There was not a member on the floor more inimical to slavery than he was. Still he was of opinion that the effect of the present resolution, if adopted, would be injurious. He should, therefore, vote against it.
Mr. BARD—It was my wish that the question before the committee might be taken without discussion, but as the gentleman from S. Carolina has preferred a different course, I beg permission to offer a few thoughts on the subject.
As to the constitutionality of the measure, I believe there can be but one opinion. It is pretty well understood, that the union of the states was a matter of compromise; and indeed the language of the constitution suggests the idea, that the convention which formed that instrument must have had the emancipation of slaves under their consideration. They had achieved liberty, and their object was to transmit it to posterity; and we cannot permit ourselves to suppose that men whose minds were so enriched with liberal sentiments, and who had so often reiterated the sacred truth, "That all men were born equally free," I say we cannot suppose that they would consider slavery to be a subject unworthy their discussion; and it appears to be equally suggested, that the convention were not all agreed to an absolute prohibition of the slave trade; but yielded to, far that a duty or tax might be imposed on the future importation of that description of people. The question then is only on the policy of laying this tax—And it appears that there can be no doubt on this question.
The slave trade, in terms, makes African men, mere articles of traffic; and of course they must be as much a subject of commercial regulations as any other species of foreign manufactures. The tax will be high or low in proportion to the price the article will bring. And if my information is correct, a slave will bring four hundred dollars; the tax then is but two and half per cent. which is many degrees lower than any other imported articles pay. The tax is a general one; no state in the union is exempted; it will operate wherever its object can be found. It may be that some states will pay more and some less; but it will be at the option of any state how much, or whether, it will pay any of this tax; for it will be just as the state shall please to deal in this article of commerce. And on the score of uniformity no objection can lie against the tax—the slaves have already been the object of direct taxation, and Vermont paid none of that tax; because she had none of that kind of taxable property; and yet I never heard it complained of as not being uniform. It is said the tax is impolitic, because it will not prevent the importation of Africans into our country. This may, indeed, be the case; and I believe it will be but a feeble check to the trade, if not aided by nobler motives. However, if any of the states engage in the trade, the tax will have two effects; it will add something to the revenue; and it will shew to the world that the general government are opposed to slavery, and ready to improve their power as far as it will go, for preventing it. Both these ends are valuable; but I deem the latter to be the more important one; for we owe it indispensably to ourselves, and to the world whose eyes are on our government, to maintain its republican character—Every thing compared to a good name is "Trash"; and it rests with us whether we will preserve or destroy it. If our government will respect power only, and justify whatever it may be able to do, then will our hands be against every man, and every man's hand against us; and America will become the scorn of mankind.
On what principles, whether moral or political, I do not know, but so it was, that about the close of the revolutionary war, the Quaker society in South Carolina brought the slave-trade, or perhaps slavery itself under their serious consideration, and declared it to be unjustifiable—They afterwards, in 1796, or 1797 addressed congress on the subject; but failed in their object, and for no other reason, probably, than that the powers of congress did not reach it.
Some years ago the states, even those in which slaves abound most, loudly exclaimed against the further importation of that class of people, and by their laws prohibited their traffic—Either they did this on moral principles, or considerations of policy—In 1802
congress stretched out her arm to aid the state governments against the evil they so much deprecated, and passed a law inflicting fines and forfeitures, on every man who should be found importing slaves into the United States—what might have been the issue of their combined exertions, or how far they might have ultimately secured their end, I cannot tell; but as South Carolina, they have become fugatory; by repealing her prohibitory law she has rejected the interference of congress—why that state has done so; why she has abandoned a measure which, the other day, was considered so much her interest, I know not, nor is it for me to offer any conjectures. South Carolina is a sovereign state, and has a right to consult and pursue her own interest, so far as the general good will permit; for hitherto she may come and no farther—Every state has a right to import slaves if it so chooses, and congress has a right to tax all the slaves imported—but when the powers of a state though they be constitutional, operate against the general interest, then the exercise of those powers are politically wrong, because it is contrary to the fundamental principle of society, the public good, which is paramount to law and the constitution itself—And in my opinion the importation of slaves is hostile to the United States—to import slaves, is to import enemies into our country; it is to import men who must be our natural enemies, if such there can be. Their circumstances, their barbarism, their reflections, their hopes and fears render them an enemy of the worst description.
Gentlemen tell us, though I can hardly think them serious, that the people of this description, can never systematize a rebellion. I will not mention facts, it is sufficient to say that experience speaks a different language—the rigour of the laws, and the impatience of the slaves will mutually encircle each other, until the artifices of the one are exhausted, and until, on the other hand, human nature links under its wrongs, or obtains the restoration of its rights—the negroes are in every family; they are waiting on every table; they are present on numerous occasions when the conversation turns on political subjects and cannot fail to catch ideas that will excite discontentment with their condition. And what is to be expected from the people of this description, but that they will some day, and especially if their importation continues, produce a disturbance that may not be easily quieted, or kindle a flame that may not be readily extinguished—If ten thousand of them have been, as it is said, smuggled into the United States, in the course of a year or two past; and if ten or fifteen thousand of them may now be legally brought annually into our country, for four years to come, it will hardly be imagined that the general interest will be unaffected by such an importation.
If they are ignorant, they are, however, susceptible of instruction, and capable of becoming proficient in the art of war—to be convinced of this we have only to look at St. Domingo.
There the negroes felt their wrongs, and have avenged them; they learned the rights of man, and affected them: they have wrested the power from their oppressors, and have become masters of the island—If they are unarmed, they may be armed—European powers have armed the Indians against us, and why may they not arm the negroes? And if they are already as numerous as is consistent with safety, it must be extreme impolicy to import more: it is to accelerate an event which we cannot contemplate without pain.
Slavery is not only impolitic as it affects the strength and tranquility of the United States; but as it prevents their wealth, which can only grow out of society where the arts, sciences, and manufactures are cultivated and improved. But, Sir, I despise to argue on the advantages, or disadvantages of what is contrary to the genius of our government; what is radically unjust; and violates the principles of morality.
The Americans boast of being the most enlightened people in the world—they certainly enjoy the greatest share of liberty; and understand the principles of rational government more generally than any other nation on earth. They have denounced tyranny and oppression; they have declared their country to be an asylum for the oppressed of all nations. But will foreigners concede this high character to us, when they examine our census, and find that we now hold a million of men, in the most degraded slavery! This is nearly one fifth of our whole population; in some of the states they are nearly the half. Here then is a fact that must have weight to sink our national character in spite of volumes of praise to support it. It is a fact from which foreigners will infer, that we possess the principles of tyranny, but want the power to carry them into operation, except against the untutored and defenceless Africans. If then we hold a constituency of national character in any estimation, we will give every discouragement in our power to the further importation of slaves. It is in this view that the tax contemplated by the resolution is principally to be considered, and only incidentally as matter of revenue.
But, Sir, I presume, on permission to say, that the importation of slaves is in direct contradiction to the principles of morality. On these principles the constitution of the United States is founded; on them every law ought to be founded; otherwise legislation will progress in the dark, and every step deviate still more from its true direction. "Do unto others as ye would that others should do unto you," is a law paramount to all human institution; it is the fundamental law of human nature; of christianity, and of every rational government—it is a law which we with all men to respect in their dealings with us—and it is a law which every man confesses he ought to observe, and, in spite of all the sophistry of depravity, must acknowledge himself subject to its cognizance. I need not, nor will I, ask if we have observed this law as to the Africans; for it must be obvious to every man, that it is not possible to violate it in a greater degree than we have done towards that unfortunate and wretched people.
But, notwithstanding all the information our country enjoys, numbers in the eastern states have been embarked, for some years past, in the cruel traffic of slaves, and smuggling them into other states. And it is to be feared, that many of them are at this moment, peopling means to stimulate the barbarous tribes of Africa to war against each other; mutually to torture every human feeling—to violate the strongest ties of nature and affection—to tear the husband from the wife, and the wife from the husband—the parent from the child, and the child from the parent; and are coolly and deliberately forging irons, that they may have the infernal pleasure of coolly and deliberately riveting them on the unfortunate men, women and children, who may fall into their hands.
Such an enterprise, such a traffic as this, must affect our national character; it is self-evidently wrong, and at first view must receive the disapprobation of every disinterested man. The genius of our constitution, the mildness of its administration, and the prevailing sentiment of the nation, must sanction every measure to discourage the farther admission of a people whose numbers already excite most painful sensations. In a word, the tax is constitutional, no article can bear a tax better than the one here proposed—it is an uniform tax, and justified on the ground of found policy; and so far as it tends to discourage the slave trade, it is supported by every principle of virtue. If I have uttered a word offensive to any member of the House, it will not be attributed to design, but to an honest solicitude to promote the honor and interest of our country.
(To be continued.)
WASHINGTON CITY.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29.
REPUBLICAN NOMINATIONS, OF PRESIDENT & VICE-PRESIDENT.
At a meeting of one hundred and ten Republican members of the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States, held at the Capitol in Washington, on the evening of the 25th of February, 1804,
STEPHEN R. BRADLEY, of the Senate, was unanimously called to the chair.
After a very able discussion of the importance of selecting the most proper characters for the next presidential election,
THOMAS JEFFERSON was unanimously nominated for the next PRESIDENT—and the ballots being taken GEORGE CLINTON, governor of New-York, was by a very large majority, nominated for the next VICE-PRESIDENT.
A respectable committee, consisting of a member from each state, was appointed to make proper arrangements.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
MONDAY, Feb. 27.
Mr. Elliot, from the committee to whom was referred the petition of Benjamin Emmons, made the following report:
The petitioner, in behalf of himself and sixty associates, inhabitants of the state of Vermont, prays that Congress would grant to them, for the purpose of settlement and cultivation, a tract of the territory lately acquired by the United States, on the west side of the Mississippi, near the mouth of the Ohio, of six miles square, in such terms and conditions as the states composing the Union have heretofore granted their lands to settlers, or as congress shall deem proper.
While the committee feel no disposition to express an opinion unfavourable to the prayer of the petitioners, they
believe it would be improper to grant it at the present moment. Without presuming to anticipate the course which it may be the interest and policy of the United States to pursue, in the disposition of the public lands in the territories west of the Mississippi, they beg leave to recommend that the farther consideration of the prayer of the said petition be postponed until the next session of Congress.
Agreed to. The House went into a committee of the whole on the resolution of Mr. Kennedy to lay out the money collected for the relief of seamen in the ports wherein it is collected.
The committee, after some discussion of the resolution, rose and obtained leave to sit again.
Mr. Randolph, from the committee of ways and means reported a bill making appropriations for carrying into effect the convention between the U. States and Spain of the 12th of Aug. 1802.
Referred to a committee of the whole House.
The post office bill was read a third time and passed.
Mr. Thomas moved a resolution, declaring that the acceptance by John Smith of a seat in the Senate, had vacated his seat in the House, and instructing the Speaker to inform the Executive of New-York of the vacancy.
Agreed to.
Mr. Leib presented a bill to amend the charter of George Town, which was made the order for Wednesday.
The consideration of the report of the joint committee on an adjournment of Congress was postponed to Friday.
The House went into committee of the whole—Mr. Varnum in the chair—on the report of a select committee on the memorial of Tennessee, &c.—which concludes with a resolution for the appropriation of dollars to defray such expenses as the President may sanction for holding any treaty or treaties with any nation of Indians south of the Ohio, to extinguish Indian rights.
On motion of Dr. Dickson the blank was filled with 15,000 dollars.
A debate then ensued on the resolution, which was supported by Messrs. Dickson, Lyon, G.W. Campbell, Allison, Blackledge and Holland; and opposed by Messrs. S. L. Mitchell, R. Griswold and Gregg—when the question was taken, and the resolution negatived—Ayes 39—Nocs 50.
TUESDAY, February 28.
The House went into a committee of the whole—Mr. Dawson in the chair—on the bill from the Senate, for erecting Louisiana into two territories, and providing for the temporary government thereof.
On reading the 4th section, as follows:
Section 4. The legislative powers shall be vested in the governor, and in fifteen of the most fit and discreet persons of the territory, to be called the legislative council, who shall be appointed annually by the President of the United States, from among those holding real estate therein, and who shall have resided one year, at least, in the said territory, and hold no office of profit under the territory, or the United States. The governor, by and with advice and consent of the said legislative council, or of a majority of them, shall have power to alter, modify, or repeal the laws which may be in force at the commencement of this act. Their legislative powers shall also extend to all the rightful powers of legislation; but no law shall be valid, which is inconsistent with the constitution and laws of the United States, or which shall lay any person under restraint, burthen, or disability, on account of his religious opinions, professions or worship; in all which he shall be free to maintain his own, and not burthened for those of another. The governor shall publish throughout the said territory, all the laws which shall be made, and shall, from time to time, report the same to the President of the United States, to be laid before congress; which if disapproved of by congress, shall thenceforth be of no force. The governor, or legislative council, shall have no power over the primary disposal of the soil, nor to tax the lands of the United States, nor to interfere with the claims to land within the said territory. The governor shall convene and prorogue the legislative council, whenever he may deem it expedient. It shall be his duty to obtain all the information in his power, in relation to the customs, habits, and dispositions of the inhabitants of the said territory, and communicate the same, from time to time, to the president of the United States.
The discussion was opened by Dr. Leib, who moved to strike out the words giving the Governor the power of proroguing the Legislative Council.
Mr. Gregg declared himself not only in favor of dividing the Governor of this power, but likewise in favor of limiting the appointment of the legislative council by the President to one year, after which they should be chosen by the people of Louisiana.
Mr. Leib declared his coincidence i
opinion with his colleague. Mr. Varnum expressed his opinion that the inhabitants of Louisiana were entitled, under the treaty, to the right of self-government; and with the view of trying the force of the House on this principle he moved that the committee should rise, in which case he said he would move the reference of the bill, for amendment, to a select committee.
Mr. Elliot was of opinion that the bill, with a few amendments which could be easily made, would comprise the best system for the government of the people of Louisiana.
Mr. Gregg thought it would be best to take a question on the principle contained in the section before the making a reference to a select committee.
Mr. Bass opposed the rising of the committee, and advocated the principle of the bill.
Mr. Lyon spoke in favour of the rising of the committee, with a view to extend the elective franchise to the people of Louisiana.
Mr. Lucas supported the provisions of the bill.
Mr. Macon (Speaker) suggested the propriety of waving the motion for the committee rising, and substituting a motion to strike out the 4th section.
Mr. Varnum having so modified his motion,
Mr. Macon supported it, and urged the propriety of extending the second grant of territorial government to Louisiana.
Messrs. Elmer, Leib, and G. W. Campbell supported; and Mr. Huger opposed this motion, when the committee rose without any question being taken and obtained leave to sit again; when the House adjourned.
(Debate hereafter.)
COMMUNICATION.
On Saturday the 18th instant Aaron Burr was, by a respectable meeting of republican citizens from different parts of the state of New-York, convened at the Tontitine coffee house in the city of Albany, William Tabor Esq. of the assembly, in the chair, and the honorable Joseph Aaron Esq. of the Senate, secretary, unanimously nominated as governor of that state at the ensuing election. The same nomination we learn was also made on the 20th instant, in the city of New York, by a numerous and respectable meeting consisting of committees from the different wards, with an assembly of attending citizens and electors—Col. Marinus Willet in the chair, Ezekiel Hobbs Esq. Secretary.
FOR SALE OR RENT.
OR will be exchanged for property as eligibly situated in Alexandria.
THE two story brick House on the north of the Capitol corner of 1st and B streets at present occupied by Mr. Gregory, possession may be had next month, terms of sale or rent may be had of Mr. Joseph Hodgson, near the West Market, or of Barker for property in Alexandria of Matthew Brown, Baltimore.
Feb. 29—6t
WANTED,
TWO NEGRO BOYS for private use between 12 and 16 years of age. Enquire of the Pinter.
Feb. 29—3t.
A Mill-Seat and Farms.
Situated on Little river, in the county of Loudon at the head of the turnpike road now in its progress, will be offered at public sale to the highest bidder on the premises, on the 15th day of May next (if fair, or on the next fair day.)
The seat for a large manufacturing mill being immediately at the fork of the roads leading from Snicker's and Ashby's gaps, affords also a most eligible stand for a DISTILLERY, STORE and TAVERN; and the land which is of good quality, is also well adapted to the Plaster of Paris—has an abundant supply of wood and at least 100 acres of bottom fit for meadow—The tract containing upwards of 500 acres will be sold in large or small divisions to accommodate purchasers; and the terms will be one third of the money in hand on the receipt of a clear deed free from encumbrances for every kind—and the balance in two equal annual instalments (with interest) from the day of sale; the purchasers to receive the rents on the land when due from the tenants, whose terms will expire at the end of this year.
Inquiries respecting the said property may in the mean time be made of Mr. Solomon Betton residing near it.
FERDINANDO FAIRFAX. Charles Town, Jefferson county, Virginia Feb. 29—wt15M.
The subscriber has the honor
to inform the ladies and gentlemen of Washington and Georgetown, that he has returned for the purpose of taking LIBERTEES, and will resume his business at the rooms lately occupied by him in the house of Mr. David Shoemaker on F. street near the bank of the United States, in the city of Washington.
ST. MEMIN.
Feb. 29—2t

THOMAS CARPENTER, TAYLOR
HAS just received an handsome supply of fall goods, which he is determined to sell and make upon the most reasonable terms, and in the best and most fashionable manner, and greatest expedition.
Poquoson Avenue, near the President's Square and Capitol Hill, seventh house from the Capitol.
SELIM.
A GENTLE Arabian HORSE, brought to this country last summer by captain James Barron, in the United States Frigate Osprey, on her return from the Mediterranean. The said horse was brought from Egypt by the way of Malta, and from thence to Gibraltar, at which place capt. Barron obtained him from captain Ramsay, of the Queen's Regiment, who intended him for England, but was prevailed on to let him come to this country. He will stand the ensuing season at my house in Dinwiddie county, near the Cut Bank Bridge, on Nottoway River. The terms will be made known in due time. And whereas doubts may have arisen with respect to his being an Arabian, the subscriber pledges himself in case it should be made appear otherwise than has been stated in captain Ramsay's certificate, at any future reasonable time, to reimburse the money the said horse covers to such gentlemen as think proper to send to him. The manner of his coming, and the character who brought him, are in addition to this guarantee, as well as undeniable respectable certificates, such testimony of his being a genuine Arabian, whatever interest or prejudiced minds may advance to the contrary, that an attempt to further proof of this horse being really Arabian bred, is thought at this time unnecessary, yet I beg leave to subjoin that he is considered upon the grounds of being genuine, a great acquisition by those who are really acquainted with the character of the Arabian horses.
WM. STARKE.
Groveland, Dinwiddie county, Feb. 3.—1m.
Fifty Dollars Reward.
RAN away from the subscriber about the first of November last, a negro man called BILLY BUNDY, about 26 years old, yellow complexion, bends forward with his knees, a large scar on or near one of his heels, and has a habit of stroking his chin when spoken to, he has for some time worked at the carpenter's trade. The above reward will be given on delivering him to the subscriber, or thirty dollars to secure him in jail so that I get him again.
LUCY BROOKE.
Essex County, Virginia, Feb. 8.—2m.
WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION.
The office of the Washington Association and United States Insurance company is removed to the corner of square No. 226 fronting on the President's square and Pennsylvania Avenue.
THOMAS HERTY, Sec'y P. T.
Jan. 18.—tf.
TO RENT,
And immediate Possession given, A Two story Frame House, in the City of Washington, situated on N. Street, square 224—containing 4 rooms beside two garret rooms, piazza and pantry, kitchen, store room, &c. with a good garden—lately occupied by Mrs. Lee, adjoining to Mr. Xaupie's store—Also that convenient two-story frame on same square, late in possession of Dr. Tabs, opposite to which Robert Peacock, Esq. lately resided—consisting of 6 rooms, and two garret rooms, piazza and balcony to south front, cellar with dry well, kitchen, carriage house, stable, an excellent garden, with every convenience for the reception of a genteel family. For particulars enquire at Mr. Rhode's tavern, Mr. Xaupie's store, or to the subscriber.
REDMUND PURCEL.
January 13, 1804—tf
CHARLES VARDEN,
TAYLOR,
FROM PHILADELPHIA.
HAS received from Philadelphia an elegant assortment of the best quality Superfine Cloths, Cassimeres, Silk Floratine, Black and fancy silk molekin velvet, white & figured Marcellus, Swandowns, Tolinnettes, Velveteens, Ramay cords, Coatings, &c. With a variety of other articles suitable for the winter season.
N. B. Ladies Habits, Regimentals and Navy uniforms made in the first style of fashion.
New-Jersey Avenue, the second House from the Capitol Square. November 2, 1803.
FOR SALE.
PURSUANT to the Will of the late Patrick Henry, a Tract of Land, lying on both sides of Falling river, in Charlotte county, Virginia, and containing about 1800 acres. This Land is in general poor, but contains a Bank of Iron Ore, supposed to be the best of any known in that part of the country. It lies on an excellent stream, a branch of Roanoke river, within four miles of its mouth, from whence is an easy and safe navigation. There are water-falls, stone and timber on the Land for all the purposes of an Iron Work; in the midst of a fine corn country; and about 400 acres of the Land is valuable for its soil. For further particulars enquire of Mr. RANDOLPH, of the House of Representatives. The terms will be made easy to the purchaser by
EDMUND WINSTON, Ex'r.
of Patrick Henry. Buckingham county, Ver. Dec. 23.—tf.
HAI MANUFACTURY.
The subscriber informs his customers and the public generally that he has discontinued business in the city of Washington, and has opened shop on Bridge street near the Union Tavern—he solicits the continuance of former customers, and hopes that all others who may chuse to call and purchase his manufacture will be amply suited, if unfaithful and goods are requisites.
JOEL BROWN.
George Town, Feb. 17—tf
A GREAT BARGAIN.
THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS will be taken and payment made easy, to the purchaser, for the following valuable property free from any incumbrance whatever.
A SET of saw mills working two faws—a grist mill with two run of stones and bolting machine, also a cotton and rice machine complete all worked by water, also one saw mill about 200 yards from the former and on the same dam, now about finishing that will work from two to fourteen saws under the same roof—this mill is insured for three years after her being completed—they now going in good repair and the whole in a progressive way of improvement, with about Ten thousand acres of land all adjoining and immediately contiguous to the mills, on which are several valuable farms. The timber for mill use are inexhaustible and exceptionally good—they are situated on the waters of Drowning Creek, ninety seven miles from George Town South Carolina, to which place the lumber is carried being rafted at the mills without the trouble of hauling, a valuable convenience. The stream is equal if not superior to any in the states of North or South Carolina—the grist mills command a custom at times of 30 or 40 miles around them. The situation at the mills is high, pleasant and very healthy, on which is a good two story house with piazza, a good kitchen, larder, carriage and harness houses and other necessary out buildings with a new store house completely finished, it being an excellent stand for a country store. Application to be made to the Subscriber at Millville near Lumberton in North Carolina, or for any information respecting the premises, to Samuel D. Purvis at the city of Washington.
WM. NORMENT.
Millville N. C. Dec. 12.
N. B. Any part of the above property will be sold as may best suit a purchaser. Dec. 23—tf
S. THOMEE.
BEGS leave to inform his friends that he has removed his store from George town to King Street Alexandria, where orders in his line will be executed with punctuality and dispatch. Orders left at Mr. March's Book-store will be duly attended to.
GILDING
AND ENAMELLING ON GLASS, A few doors above the Washington Tavern—Looking glass and picture frames made and regilt.
NEEDLE WORK
Framed in the handsomest manner, and names done on glass.
S. THOMEE, as a stranger being determined to establish in the line of his profession, solicits that encouragement alone which he trusts the reasonableness of his charges and his assiduity to business may entitle him to. Window curtains handsomely gilt, and every thing in his line done to please the fancy of the owner equal to any imported.
N. B. He has some glasses and prints for sale at low terms.
Jan. 9.—ep3m
NOTICE.
ALL who are indebted to the estate of John Crookbank deceased are requested to make immediate payment to, CHARLES GLOVER, Adm'r. George Town, Nov. 25—tf
WASHINGTON BUILDING COMPANY.
THE members thereof will please to attend the next stated monthly meeting, to be held on Monday the 5th March next at 7 o'clock in the evening, at the house occupied by Mr. Edward Frethy opposite to Rhodes's Hotel.
by order
THOMAS HERTY, Sec'y.
THOMAS M'EUEN, THOMAS HALE & WILLIAM DAVIDSON, who heretofore, have transacted business under the firm of Thomas M'Euen & Co. will in future use that of M'Euen, Hale & Davidson. PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 1—tw6m
NOTICE.
The subscriber hath obtained from the Orphan's Court of Calvert county, letters of administration on the personal estate of Daniel Kent deceased late of said county. All persons having claims against the estate are requested to hand them in legally authenticated, and those indebted are requested to make immediate payment to
JOSEPH KENT, adm'r.
Lower Marlbro. Feb. 24—3w
NOTICE.
The subscriber intending to relinquish the employment of Letter Carrier on the 31st March next, supposes it may not be improper to give such previous notice thereof as may prevent any inconvenience that might possibly arise from the want of time to employ a person in his stead, or to make any other arrangement on the subject that may be deemed necessary. He avails himself of this occasion to return his sincere thanks to those genteel men who have so generously contributed to enable him to encounter the peculiar disadvantages attending a carrier in this place, but notwithstanding their liberal aid he finds his emoluments too inadequate to a livelihood, that he is compelled to resort to other means of support.
EDWARD ENO.
Feb. 27.
TEN DOLLARS
REWARD.
Stolen from the stable of the Subscriber on Sunday night, (the 12th inst.) a stout, strong, well form'd light grey horse about fifteen hands high, and nine years old. He may be known by the following circumstances, viz. his mane and tail being of a dark colour, having lost his right eye the ball of which is sunk; when first mounted he can with difficulty be made to go off, and kicks with great violence if touched on the rump. The above reward will be given for the delivery of the horse and conviction of the thief, or five dollars for the delivery of the horse alone, on giving such information as may tend to a recovery of him.
JOHN WILLIS.
Washington, Feb. 24—3t
PATENT RIGHT.
FOR painting rooms, ornamenting ceilings, borders, &c. to represent paper hangings. The subscribers having purchased the patent from John Selby the original inventor, for the district of Columbia, the states of Virginia, N. Carolina S. Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, the province of Louisiana and New Orleans, will dispose of the same for such place or places within the above limits as may be agreed on. The model may be seen and terms made known by applying to, Messrs. RICHARD RYLAND, WILLIAM BYRNE, Stocko plasterers, Capitol Hill, City of Washington—Feb. 3—3wtf
N. B. Those desirous of blending economy with utility and elegance, will find their account in this invention. Letters post paid and addressed as above will be attended to.
Heron's Junius.
This day is published by RAPINE, CONRAD, & Co. NEW-JERSEY AVENUE, NEAR THE CAPITOL.
THE LETTERS of JUNIUS, with notes and illustrations, historical, biographical and critical, by Robert Heron, Esq. 2 vols. 8vo.—price 5 dollars.
This edition contains all the letters of Junius, Philo Junius, and Sir William Draper and Mr. Horne to Junius, with their respective dates, and according to the order in which they appeared in the public advertiser.
Also, just come to hand.
The Domestic Encyclopedia, vol. 4th. Sermons by Jean Baptiste Mathillon, Bishop of Clermont. 2 vols.
Muse—Young Calinette—Love is a torment—Old Tower—Female Auctioneer. Where's the harm of that—Hear Pricilla.
Thirty Dollars Reward.
DESERTEd from the Marine Barracks, the following Marines:—MOSES STICKNEY, born in Massachusetts, 22 years old, 5 feet 10 1-2 inches high, grey eyes brown hair and light complexion—GEORGE SIMMONS, from Virginia, 25 years old, 6 feet 1 1-4 inches high, hazel eyes, sandy hair, and light complexion—GEORGE HDOET, born in New-York (state) 22 years old, 5 feet 9 inches high, blue eyes, dark hair, and fair complexion. Ten Dollars will be paid for each of the said deserters if lodged in any jail, or delivered at any military post in the United States, and information given to the Commanding Officer at Washington, and all reasonable expenses paid if brought, to the Barracks in the City of Washington. By order of Colonel Burrows, J. R. PENWICK, Adjt. M. Corps. Feb. 15—3twtf
War Department, Feb. 8th, 1804.
Notice is hereby given,
THAT separate proposals will be received at the office of the Secretary for the Department of War, until the eighteenth day of May next ensuing, for the supply of all rations which may be required for the use of the United States, from the 1st day of October, 1804, until the 30th day of September, 1805, both days inclusive, at the following places, viz.
First. At Niagara, Detroit, Michilimackinac, Chicago, Fort Wayne, the post on the Miami of the Lakes, and at any place or places, where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of Ohio, and at any place or places within the Indiana territory north of the 41st degree of north latitude.
Second. At South West Point, Tellico, Knoxville, Nashville, and within the Cherokee nation between Tennessee and Georgia, and on the Tennessee river, and on the road between said river and Nashville, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the states of Tennessee and Kentucky.
Third. At the garrison near Vincennes, on the river Wabash.
Fourth. At Fort Massie, near the mouth of the Ohio, Kaskaskia, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the Indiana territory, south of the 41st degree of north latitude, (Vincennes excepted.)
Fifth. At St. Louis, New Madrid, and any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited in Louisiana, north of the settlements on the river Arkansas.
Sixth. At Chickasaw Bluffs, Arkansas, Natchez, Fort Adams, Fort Stoddart on the Mobile, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the Mississippi territory, and on the road between Natchez and the Tennessee river, (the post on said river excepted.)
Seventh. At New Orleans, and any place or places on the Mississippi river, below Fort Adams, and at Opelousas, Natchitoches, and at any other place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched, or recruited in Louisiana, not before mentioned, or provided for.
Separate proposals will also be received as aforesaid, for the supply of all rations, which may be required for the use of the United States, from the 1st day of January, 1805, until the 31st day of December of the same year, both days inclusive, within the several dates herein after mentioned, viz.
Eighth. At Fort Wilkinson, Coosahatchie Island, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of Georgia, and on the Indian boundary between Georgia and the Creek nation.
Ninth. At Charleston, Rocky Mountain, on the head waters of the Santee, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the states of South and North Carolina.
Tenth. At Norfolk, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of Virginia.
Eleventh. At Fort M'Henry, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of Maryland and the district of Columbia.
Twelfth. At Fort Mifflin, Pittsburgh, Carlisle, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the states of Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, and Delaware.
Thirteenth. At Fort Jay, West Point, Albany, Schenectady, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of New-York, Niagara excepted.
Fourteenth. At Fort Trumbull, Fort Wells cost, or at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of Connecticut, Rhode Island and Vermont.
Fifteenth. At Fort Independence, (Boston harbour) and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of Massachusetts, (the district of Maine excepted.)
Sixteenth. At Portsmouth, Portland, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed, marched or recruited within the state of New-Hampshire and the district of Maine.
A ration to consist of one pound and one quarter of beef or three quarters of a pound of pork, eighteen ounces of bread or flour, one gill of rum, whisky or brandy, and a rate of two quarts of salt, four quarts of vinegar, four pounds of soap, and one pound and one half of candles, to every hundred rations. The prices of the several component parts of the ration should be specified; but the United States reserves the right of making such alterations in the price of the component parts of the ration aforesaid as shall make the price of each part thereof bear a just proportion to the proposed price for the whole ration.
The rations are to be furnished in such quantities, that there shall at all times, during the term of the proposed contract, be sufficient for the consumption of the troops at Michilimackinac, Detroit, Niagara and Chicago for six months in advance, and at each of the other posts on the western waters for at least three months in advance, of good and wholesome provisions, if the same shall be required. It is also to be permitted to all and every of the Commandants of fortified places or posts to call for as seasons when the same can be transported, or at any time in the case of urgency such supplies of like provisions in advance, as in the discretion of the commandant shall be deemed proper.
It is to be understood that the contractor is to be at the expense and risk of issuing the supplies to the troops, and that all losses sustained by the depredations of an enemy, or by means of the troops of the United States, shall be paid by the United States at the price of the articles captured or destroyed as aforesaid, on the deposition of two or more persons of creditable characters, and the certificate of a commissioned officer, stating the circumstances of the loss, and the amount of the articles for which compensation shall be claimed.
The privilege is understood to be reserved to the United States of requiring that none of the supplies which may be furnished under any of the proposed contracts, shall be issued until the supplies which have been or may be furnished under contracts now in force, have been consumed, and that a supply in advance may be always required at any of the fixed posts on the sea board or Indian frontiers, nor exceeding three months.
H. DEARBORN,
Secretary of War.
24th May 18.
BY AUTHORITY.
SCHEME OF A LOTTERY, To build a Catholic Cathedral Church in the City of Baltimore.
   Dollars     1 prize of 20,000   2 ditto 10,000   4 do 5000 20,000   5 do 1000 5,000   10 do 500 5,000   15 do 200 3,000   200 do 100 20,000   200 do 50 10,000   200 do 25 5,000   350 do 20 7,000   4000 do 15 60,000   1 first drawn ticket after 2000, having a blank to its number, 500   1 do after 4000 do 500   1 do after 6000 do 500   1 do after 8000 do 500   1 do after 10,000 do 500   1 do after 12,000 do 500   1 do after 14,000 do 500   1 do after 16,000 do 500   1 do after 18,000 do 500   1 do after 20,000 do 2,000   1 last drawn ticket, which may have a blank to its number, 4,000   7,154 Prizes, 210,000   3,856 Blanks—Not two to a prize.  
21,000 Tickets, at 10 dollars each, 210,000
The laudable purpose of this lottery—the many very valuable prizes offered, and there not being two blanks to a prize, are considerations which give the managers reason to hope for a rapid sale of the tickets. The drawing will commence as soon as a sufficient number of tickets shall be sold to authorise it; and thirty days after the completion of the drawing, the prizes will be paid to the fortunate adventurers; subject to a deduction of fifteen per cent. Such prizes as shall not be demanded within twelve months after the drawing is finished, shall be considered as relinquished for the benefit of the church.
For the satisfaction of those at a distance, it may be necessary to mention, that the managers have given bond to the mayor and city council in the sum of 120,000 dollars, for the due payment of the prizes which may be drawn.
Tickets to be had of the managers, or of such persons as may be appointed by them.
Managers. Right rev. Bishop Carroll, Rev. Francis Bevilan, Messrs. David Williamson, Robert Walsh, Charles Ghequire, Patrick Bennet, Arnold Livers, Luke Tiernan, Francis I. Mitchell. July 13, 1803. copf.
The managers have lodged a number of tickets in the above lottery in the hands of Wm. Brent and James D. Barry for sale.
TO BE LET
And entered upon immediately, a two story BRICK HOUSE in good repair on Twelfth street near Pennsylvania Avenue, opposite Morin's tavern—The house is the property of the Washington building Company, and will be rented low apply to THOMAS CARPENTER. Jan 30—3wtf
PRIZES
In the fourth class of the EASTON DELAWARE BRIDGE LOTTERY,
Authorised by the states of Pennsylvania & N. Jersey are now PAID by Messrs. Bolla & Jordan's Treasurer, and by Edward Mott, Manager—Philadelphia
Of whom may be had tickets at 2 3-4 dollars, (but which may very soon be expected to advance) in the following unparallelled
SCHEME OF THE EXTRA CLASS.
   2 prizes of 10,000 dolls. 20,000 dolls.   2 5,000 10,000   4 2,500 10,000   5 1,000 5,000   10 500 5,000   25 200 5,000   50 100 5,000   100 50 5,000   250 20 5,000   500 10 5,000   10,000 5 50,000   39,953 blanks, not 4 to a prize 125,000 Dolls.   50,000 tickets—to draw 500 each day.  
The drawing will commence at the State House, Philadelphia, in October next, at 10 o'clock. The prizes, subject to a discount of 15 per cent. will be paid thirty days after the conclusion of the drawing, if demanded in one year, otherwise forfeited to the use of the bridge.
Part of the prizes determinable as under specified.
Prizes of 500 dollars each, the first drawn ticket on the 1st, 10th, 20th, 30th, 40th, 50th, and 60th, days drawing.
Prizes of 1000 dollars each, the first drawn ticket on the 70th, 75th, and 80th day's drawing.
Prizes of 2,500 dollars each, the first drawn ticket on the 85th and 90th day's drawing.
Prize of 5,000 dollars, the first drawn ticket on the 95th day's drawing.
Prize of 10,000 dollars, the first drawn ticket on the 100th day's drawing.
The two prizes of 10,000 dollars, will receive shares, in part of payment, 20 bridge shares, at 100 dollars each.
The two prizes of 5,