Alexandria advertiser and commercial intelligencer (Alexandria [Va.]), 1801-02-04 00:00:00

For Liverpool.
The Ship POLLY, Capt. SAM. HANCOCK, will take FREIGHT for Liverpool.—Terms may be known by enquiring of R. T. HOOE & Co. January 16. d
Sales by Auction.
On SATURDAY next, At ten o'clock, will be sold at the Auction Room on Union Street, Sugar in blls.
 Candles in boxes,  Tobacco in kegs,  Coffee in bags,  Saltpetre in bags,  Raisins in boxes,  Grapes in jars,  Almonds in blls.  Oranges in boxes,  Anchovies in kegs and boxes, 
Together with a variety of DRY GOODS,
Among which are Wilton and Scotch Carpeting, striped and plain Coatings, Kerseys, Flannels, rose Blankets, Broadcloths, Kerseymeres, worsted Hose, Durants, mens' fine Hats, Irish and German Linens, Humhums, Mullins, &c. HENRY & THOS. MOORE, Auctioneers. January 29.
Public Sale.
On FRIDAY next, At 10 o'clock, will be Sold at the Vendue Store, BROWN SUGAR In hlds. tierces and barrels—on a Credit and for Cash.
Teneriffe Wine in pipes and casks,
 Catalonia do. in pipes,  French Brandy do.  Whiskey in blls.  Coffee in bags,  Hyson and Bohea Tea in chests,  Raisins in kegs,  Soap and Candles in boxes,  Tobacco,  Nails, Hardware, &c. 
Also, a quantity of DRY GOODS,
Consisting of Cloths, Coatings, Welch Planes, Flannels, Irish Linens and Sheeting, Ozanburgs, Silks and Sattins, Calicoes, book and jaconet mullins, tamboured and plain Threads, Hats, Paper, &c.
P. G. MARSTELLER, Auctioneer. January 17. Two active Lads, about 14 years of age, and of reputable connexions, would be taken as Apprentices at the office of the Advertiser.
Congress of the United States.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY January 21.
SEDITION LAW.
House in committee, Mr. Morris in the chair. (Mr. Harper's Speech concluded.)
The last instance is brought from Richmond. There too, according to gentlemen, a person indicted under this act, was denied the opportunity of producing evidence in support of his justification. Let it be recollected, Mr. Chairman, that this person was indicted for a libel so atrocious, that no person except its author, has yet been found profligate enough to defend or even to quote it. A libel not on the administration merely of this government, or on the government itself, but on the nation, the constitution, our independence, the war of our revolution, the patriots who conducted it, the character of our people and country, and on the American name. A libel on every person and thing that is American, except the individual, whom alone it dishonours by its praise; whom it disgraces as far as disgrace can be inflicted by the commendation of the wicked; whom it places alone on that bad eminence, where not even a generous enemy could wish to see him stand. A libel sir, which has made its supporters blush; which they have sedulously endeavored to suppress lest it should dishonor the cause which it was intended to defend; which they have made to shun the light, and passed secretly from hand to hand, lest it should produce repulsion in the minds of those whom it was their wish to seduce. This, sir, was the libel for which the person in question was indicted, and which he had the effrontery to say that he wished to prove, by the testimony of honorable men. He wished to call men of character into the court, and insult them by asking them on their oaths, whether "The Prospect Before Us" was true. Is there one man on earth, sir, profligate and hardened enough, to say that he believes it? Would the gentleman whom he pretended that it was his wish to summon, have appeared in court, and said that they believed what the book contained? No, sir. One of them was in Richmond, and was summoned. He, sir, is a man of honorable feelings, of a manly character, whose political prejudices and party animosities, strong as they are, never betrayed him into a mean, a little or paltry action. He was summoned, and what did he answer? "Let the scoundrel run away and I will pay his recognizance; but as to appearing for him in court, that would be too much." This is said to have been his answer; and whether he gave it or not, certain it is that he did not attend. The other persons proposed to be summoned were within reach, and might have been
+ The Prospect before Us.
had. What did the court say? "You shall have a continuance till next term, if you entitle yourself to it according to the rules of law; by disclosing to the court, on affidavit, the matter which you expect to prove by these witnesses, and shewing that it is material. Even without complying with these terms, you shall have a postponement from day to day, in order to procure your witnesses, as long as the time allowed for the setting of the court will admit. But of this indulgence no use was made. No effort was made to procure the witnesses during the sitting of the court. That was not the object. The object was to postpone the trial till the next court, under the pretence of the absence of witnesses; and the court recollecting the Philadelphia case where an attempt was made to practice a similar trick, were on their guard, and very properly resolved to defeat it. They resolved to bring on the trial, unless proper and legal grounds for a continuance should be shewn. As this could not be done, the trial was bro't on, and the party convicted by an honest, responsible and independant jury.
So much, Mr. Chairman, for the oppressions exercised under this law, and for the objections to its expediency.
As to the question of constitutionality, it has been waved by gentlemen very properly, in my opinion; and I certainly shall not enter into it. The constitutionality, of the law has been on many former occasions, triumphantly established by arguments to which not even the semblance of an answer has been given. Indeed, sir, I have never so lowly appreciated the understandings of those who have clamored about the unconstitutionality of this act, as to suppose that they themselves believed in their objections. I have ever considered those objections merely as instruments for working on the public mind, as party expedients for exciting discontent against those in power, and paving the way for their dismissal. I have ever considered the constitutionality of the sedition act, as a mere stalking horse, behind which to fight the administration. I believe that it has always been so considered by those who have used it; by those who have most gladly grasped, and most industriously wielded, a weapon whereby they hoped to demolish the power of their political adversaries, and open the way, for their own.
Hence, sir, and hence alone the clamors about the unconstitutionality of the sedition act. Hence, and hence alone, the odious epithets which have been heaped upon it, and the tales fabricated about oppressions exercised in the course of its execution. Hence the charge that congress had no power to make a provision, which rests on the same principle whereon are founded nearly one-third of the laws of our code; and which cannot be distinguished, and has never been attempted to be distinguished, from the first section of the same act, the section against seditious meetings, about
the constitutionality of which a doubt has never been raised.
We are told, sir, that the people have condemned this act; that the people, as one gentleman has eloquently expressed it, "have declared their disapprobation in a voice of thunder." Sir, gentlemen deceive themselves. They have indeed tho't this reason a good one, and have proved that they thought so by the industry where-with they have used it. But they greatly over-rated its effects, which they measure by the erring standard of their own zeal. Let it be remembered that this act was passed in the spring '98, and in the summer and autumn of that year, and the spring of the next, when the clamour against this law was fresh and high, the American nation was called upon to express by a general election, its sense of the conduct of its representatives. Let it be remembered, that the persons who were instrumental in passing this law, never received higher or more general proofs of the approbation and confidence of their country, than in this election. A change, gentlemen say, has since happened. If this change be any thing more than apparent, or at most a temporary fluctuation in popular sentiment, it is owing to far other causes than the sedition act; causes which need not now be discussed. Suffice it to say, that this act has received the highest and most repeated proofs of approbation on the part of the American nation; and that, industriously as the clamour against it has been excited and kept up, that clamour has never extended beyond certain parts of the country.
We are called on, sir, for the reasons why this act should now be continued. I will give my reasons most freely. Whether they be the same with those which actuate the conduct of other gentlemen, I know not, but in my mind they deserve all consideration. I wish to revive this law, sir, as a shield for the liberty of the press, and the freedom of opinion; as a protection to myself and those with whom I have the happiness and the honor to think on public affairs, should we at any future time, be found by the imbecility or the mistakes of any future administration in this country, to commence an opposition against it; not a factious, profligate and unprincipled opposition, founded on falsehood and misrepresentation, and catching at the passions and the prejudices of the moment; but a manly, dignified, candid and patriotic opposition, addressed to the good sense and virtue of the nation, and resting on the basis of argument and truth. Should that time ever arrive, as it may arrive, tho' I earnestly pray that it may not, I wish to have this law which allows the truth to be given in evidence on indictments for libels; I wish to have this law as a shield. When indicted myself, for calmly and candidly exposing the errors of government and the incapacity of those who govern, I wish to be enabled, by this law, to go before a jury of my country, and say that what I have

written is true. I wish to interpose this law between the freedom of discussion and the overbearing sway of that tyrannical spirit, by which a certain political party in this country is actuated; that spirit which arrogating to itself to speak in the name of the people, like fanaticism arrogating to itself to speak in the name of God, knows neither moderation, mercy nor justice; regards neither feeling, principle nor right, and sweeps down, with relentless fury, all that dares to detect its domination. It is my knowledge of this spirit, sir, of its frantic excesses, its unfeeling tyranny, and its intolerable revenge, that makes me anxious to raise this one mound between its fury and public liberty; to put into the hands of free discussion, one shield against its darts. This shield, I have little doubt, will at length and perhaps very soon, be torn away; for the spirit of which I speak, goaded by conscious inferiority, stimulated to madness, by the envy of superior talents, reputation and virtue, knows to brook no check upon its rise, no censure upon its excesses; but I will not sanction my own death by my own vice. I will not yield one barrier to freedom and the right to opinion, while I can defend it. I regard this law as such a barrier; feeble perhaps, indeed, and ineffectual to check the progress of that tyrannical spirit which even now can scarce restrain its rage; but though feeble, yet dear to freedom, and never to be abandoned by freedom's friends. And in order to keep up this barrier to the last, I shall now, while I may, vote for the continuance of that law, which mitigates the rigour of the common law in this respect, and protects the liberty of the press and of opinion, by enacting that the truth may be given in evidence on indictments for libels against the government.
[Debate to be continued.]
TUESDAY, February 3.
The Speaker read to the house a letter from the Governor of Pennsylvania, and certificate of the due return of a member to serve in the place of General Hartly, deceased.—Referred to the Committee of Elections.
Mr. Stewart appeared, and after being qualified according to law, took his seat in the house.
Mr. Pinckney reported a bill giving the right of pre-emption to certain persons who have contracted with John C. Symmes and his associates, for lands in the North Western Territory, between the Miami rivers, which was twice read and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading.
Mr. Griswold reported a bill to amend the act for the valuation of lands, &c. and to repeal so much of the same and other acts, as relates to surveyors of the revenue, which was twice read and committed.
Mr. Griswold also reported a resolution for a bill to be brought in to enable the Secretary of the Treasury to employ and provide for clerks for the commissioners under the aforesaid act.
Mr. Van Cortlandt presented a petition from Thomas Chapman, praying some amendment may be made to the act respecting naturalization, so as to admit him to become a citizen of the United States. Referred to the committee on that subject.
After several petitions were read the house went into committee on the bill providing a government for the District of
Columbia, and after considerable debate on the principle of the members of the house of representatives being elected for two years, as by the bill which was moved to be amended so as to read, one year—this was negatived, 50 to 48. Debate was then held on the motion to strike out such part of the bill as confers the right of suffrage to persons possessed of a house and lot—this was negatived. The committee then rose and obtained leave to sit again.
BOSTON, January 23.
We learn, that that the Ganges sloop of War, of 24 guns, is ordered to be in readiness to carry the modified Treaty to France, for the ratification of the First Consul of that nation.
Legislature of Massachusetts.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Wednesday, Jan. 21.
A Quorum of the House not having assembled, the members adjourned.
Thursday January 22.
A joint Committee, consisting of the Hon. Messrs Bridge and Jones, Messrs. Knox, Hill, and Parkman, was raised to wait on His Excellency the Governor, to inform him, that a quorum of the two branches of the Legislature have met, are proceeding on business, and are ready to receive any communications that his Excellency may think proper to make.
Mr. Knox, from the above committee reported, that His Excellency the Governor would meet the two branches to-morrow at 12 o'clock, in the Representatives Chamber.
Friday January 23.
The Senators and Representatives assembled together, when precisely at 12 o'clock His Excellency the Governor came in, and made the following
S P E E C H :
Gentlemen of the Senate and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives,
The favourable situation of our fellow-citizens and the appearances of general and progressive improvement which present themselves to our view in the various parts of the Commonwealth, afford us subjects of mutual congratulation.
In the course of the last year the seasons, through the greater part of our country, have been fruitful; our trade and fisheries were generally prosperous, and the people of this state have not again been visited with that alarming disease which has fatally prevailed in some parts of the United States. These and many other providential blessings, will on this occasion occur to our remembrance, and demand the gratitude of our hearts.
But while we rejoice in public prosperity, it will be our duty to reflect, that we owe to our fellow citizens our vigilant and faithful endeavours to preserve their present advantages, and promote their lasting reputation & interest; to check the growth of vice and impiety—to cherish the institutions for moral instruction and the education of youth; and to maintain the principles of justice and provide equal administration in every part of the Commonwealth.
At the same time our obligations to support the federal constitution will require us, to attend to public national affairs, and endeavor to diffuse correct information concerning them among our fellow citizens—to remove groundless perejudices—to discountenance the spirit of party & undue
attachment to any foreign nation; and to do all in our power to increase the respectability of the American character.
From the commencement of the war in Europe, it has been the policy of the general government to cultivate peace with all nations—to observe an exact neutrality between the powers at war, and by the fulfilment of treaties and respect for the law of nations, to maintain itself in that impartial course, which its duty and interest prescribed. But notwithstanding these cautious measures, our intercourse with other nations has been obstructed, and to justify these obstructions, our respect for the duties owing from one nation to another, has at different times been drawn into question by one or other of the belligerent powers.
At length a regard to the public safety compelled the government to have recourse to defensive measures, and the success of our infant navy in preventing depredations upon our commerce, will serve to convince the people, that system of maritime defense will be the most easy and efficacious, whenever their rights shall be in danger from external enemies.
The predicament of a neutral people is frequently delicate and hazardous; for when a war is prosecuted with great acrimony, the contending parties are extremely apt to consider those who are not for them, as against them. But whatever apology may be formed for wrongs that proceed from the heat of passion, there can be none from deliberate and authorised injuries:—Still, however, an honorable accommodation is always to be preferred to a state of hostility; for a wise and humane government will never resort to the calamitous expedient of war, until every advance towards reconciliation which the national dignity will permit, has proved ineffectual.
It must, I think, be allowed, that the government of the United States, in the case I allude to, have conducted with moderation, and with a manifest preference of mild and pacific measures. While preparations were made for the unhappy alternative of war, no method consistent with the public safety was left unattempted to obtain justice by negotiation.
Before the Constitution of the United States was adopted, the union between them had become little more than nominal; they had interfering interests, and in some cases were hardly restrained from expressions of mutual resentment. The Congress at that time was only authorised to make requisitions upon the several states and the latter exercised the privilege of refusing to comply with those requisitions. If this state of things had continued during the disturbances in Europe, it is scarcely to be supposed that all the states would have remained neutral. It is not unlikely that from accident or motives of partiality or mistaken interest they would have arranged themselves under opposite standards. The possibility of such an event must, in our estimation, enhance the value of that form of government which has connected us together.
But it has been often said, that however well adapted the constitution was to our circumstances, the administration of government under it, has been injurious to the public welfare, and has abounded with errors either from ignorance or design. If the present improved condition of our country does not refuse these suggestions, it might be unavailing to point out particular measures, that would seem to
entitle the rulers of the nation to our regard and confidence.
The people of this state, however, will recollect that when the constitution was formed, they were oppressed with an almost insupportable weight of taxes, and that with all their exertions it was difficult for them, to pay the interest of the state debt. By the settlement of the public accounts, and the assumption of the balance due to us by the national government, we are relieved from the burden—and you still find by a statement of the Treasurer, which will be laid before you, that our present debt may soon be cancelled, if measures for that purpose shall be preferred to the payment of the rate of interest which the public creditors are entitled to—and that no unusual taxes will be necessary.
A report of the quarter master general which will also be laid before you will shew that the State has a large supply of military stores, and warlike implements which may be used, if there shall be occasion by our well-organized militia for the public defence. You will direct such measures to be taken for securing the exposed property mentioned in the report, as the interest of the Commonwealth may require.
That the laws may be duly executed, permit me to suggest the expedient of making some additional provision for suppressing lotteries which are not established or allowed by the legislature. The importance too of our inspection laws will require the most effectual methods to prevent or punish a violation of them—Perhaps it will be found necessary in both cases to authorize prosecutions by a Grand Jury.
Our constituents now enjoy peace and tranquility, and are protected by standing laws, which are designed to secure them in the enjoyment of the fruits of their labour against every species of injustice, or oppression.—Whatever more can be done to ameliorate their condition, or increase their security, you gentlemen, will now attempt to do.
The success of your labours will very much depend upon your influence and example, in promoting good order among the people, and producing a compliance with the regulations you may think proper to adopt.
The most excellent laws will be of no use, if they are not observed, and they will not be observed by the people, unless they are respected by those who make and execute them.
I shall transmit to you, gentlemen, by particular messages, any information of importance, which I may be able to communicate.
From the good agreement which appeared in the former sessions, I have no doubt that your deliberations at this time will be conducted with candor, and I trust they will produce important benefits to our fellow-citizens. So far as my duty is concerned you may be assured of all the co-operation that can result from zeal for the welfare of the Commonwealth, and a disposition to promote harmony in the several branches of the government.
CALEB STRONG.
Boston, January 23.
NEW-YORK, January 29.
Ship Thomas—late Admiral Duncan.
WE the owners of the above ship, return our thanks to the Mayor and corporation of New-York for the loan of the late imported fire-engine, to raise the said

ship; which, with every possible assistance, we have accomplished. At the same time, we are sensible of the service and assistance of Mr. Howell, who was directed by the corporation to take charge of the same; and we return him our thanks for his ready compliance with the said order, and for his regular attendance both night and day—particularly as he has positively refused any compensation for his services.
T. JENKINS, F. JENKINS.
[It is a pleasing circumstance to learn from the above letter, that we are now in possession of engines that are found useful on more occasions than extinguishing fires. It was never before suggested that they might be applied to the raising ships or vessels sunk, but of which the circumstance above mentioned gives a most decided proof of their utility; and we hope it will not pass unobserved by the chamber of commerce of this city, who together with the insurance offices, &c. will not see the individual suffer a loss as we have already stated in a former paper, of between 6 and 700 dollars; and we have every reason to believe that if a subscription was once set on foot, by some worthy character, Mr. Howell would cheerfully be reimbursed by our citizens, at least the above sum, for which he has been so long in advance.]
Arrived since our last,
Brig Dean, Ackley, Savannah.
Brig Agenoria, Allop, from Tobago and Turk's-Island. In lat. 34, 10. spoke the English letter of marque ship Castor, out 24 hours from Norfolk, bound to Jamaica, all well. In lat. 38, 30. long. 70, 30. spoke the ship Ocean of New-Bedford, out 24 hours from New-York, bound to Liverpool, all well. Left at Turk's-Island sch'r Concord, Barnes, of Middletown; and sch'r Lucy, Carr, Providence. Sailed same day, brig Susanna, Arnold, of Baltimore.
Brig Thomas Pinckney, M'Fall, from Kingston.
The following articles are copied from Jamaica papers to the 27th ult. received yesterday at the office of this Gazette, by the brig Thomas Pinckney.
KINGSTON, December 20.
Sunday arrived the ship Matilda, Grayson, from Halifax, Nova-Scotia, in 27 days. By her we learn, that the Ma-rooms had all been embarked for Sierra Leone, and that accounts had been received of their safe arrival there.
Last Monday arrived at Savannah-la Mar, sch'r Sally, Robinson, from Charleston.
The sloop Clarissa, Spencer, from Norfolk, arrived here on Wednesday.
Thursday the snow Lucy, Rust, from Boston, in 30 days.
The Snow Pallas, Cunningham, from New-York, is arrived at St. Ann's; and the brigs Diana, Bartrum, and Friendship Green, from the same port at Falmouth. To windward of St. Ann's Bay, Capt. G. saw a ship, supposed to be the Merlin, with a felucca in tow.
The sch'r Hannah, capt. Peck, from this island, bound to Norfolk, was blown ashore the 30th Oct. last, 4 miles to the northward of Currutuck, the cargo saved, but the vessel lost.
A deep loaded ship passed by the leeward on Saturday, supposed to be the Lord Duncan, from New-York, for Montego-Bay.
For twenty years past there has not been in this parish, particularly in this town and neighbourhood, so great a fall of rain as
has taken place in the last week; it began on Tuesday night the 9th inst. at 8 P. M. and lasted with the intermission of part of Friday, until Monday, attended with heavy gusts of wind from the northward and westward: the swell from the sea was great, and would have been much more so, but from the torrents of water that fell; many estates in the valley are under water, and the road in most parts of the parish so cut up, that the putting them in order, when the weather admits, will be attended with considerable labour and expense.
December 24.
Arrived sch'r Polly, Munro, from South Carolina.
The American sch'r Assistance, from Jacquemel to Philadelphia, with cotton, coffee and hides, detained by his majesty's ship Circe, arrived yesterday.
His majesty's ship Lowestoffe, arrived on Thursday from a cruise, and brought in with her the American ship Nancy, from St. Domingo bound to Philadelphia, with Mahogany, detained by her.
S. Ann's Bay, December 12, 1800.
Yesterday morning at day break, a wreck was discovered off the harbor of this place, about a league distant; Mr. Sexten, the pilot, actuated by humanity, in most tempestuous weather, and the sea running very high, went off to her at the risk of his life, and the loss of his negroes, in order to save the lives of the crew; but, behold when he went on board, he found her totally abandoned, and not having a soul on board. She proved to be a very fine Schooner, and had painted on her stern, "The Little John of Baltimore." Her mainmast and foremast, having worked out of the steps and partners, fell overboard, but were confined to the vessel by the rigging. Mr. Sexten is of opinion she must have overset in the late bad weather, but that when her masts had worked out she righted; and though her hold was full of water she did not sink, owing to a great part of her cargo being flour. Mr. Sexten attempted to save the vessel by towing her into Dry Harbour, but the sea being very high, and the wind far to the Northward, he could not effect it, and she drove upon the reef, opposite Blenheim Barquardier, where she went to pieces in a few hours.
PHILADELPHIA, January 30.
COMMERCIALLY IMPORTANT.
LIBERTY.
EQUALITY.
FRENCH REPUBLIC.
DECREE OF
TOUSSAINT LOUVERTURE,
General in Chief of the Armies of St. Domingo.
In consequence of the just representations made to me, by the Consul General for the United States of America (Mr. Stevens) whose attachment for the colony is well known to us.
Being desirous to maintain the commercial connexions, existing between the Continent of America and of the several Islands, trading with St. Domingo.
Wishing to give them a proof thereof, by facilitating the several shipments daily made for St. Domingo.
Being also desirous to fix the ports (in this colony) for the admission of neutrals and foreign vessels, conciliating foreigners' interest with that of the French coasting traders, for whom I must also show my solicitude.
All maturely considered, we decree as follows—
Art. 1. Our decree of 21st Frimaire last, shall be executed in all its parts with the following modifications:
Art. 2. All goods imported into this colony, whatever be their nature or value, are subjected only to a duty rated at 10 per cent.
Art. 3. The laying of this duty shall be established, agreeably to our declaration of the 21st Frimaire last.
Art. 4. The ports designated for imports and exports are as follows— For the Northern Department of St. Domingo.
Cape Francois, Cape Nichola Mole, Fort Liberty.
For the Western Department.
Port Republican, Gonaives and Jacmell.
For the Southern Department.
Aux Cayes, St. Louis and Lance-a-Veau.
The present decree shall be printed (to the number of 1000 copies) read, published, and posted up in every place that may be necessary, directed to all civil and military authorities, that it may be carried into complete and strict execution.
Given at our head-quarters in Port Republican, the 10th of Nivose, 9th year of the French Republic.
(Signed)
TOUSSAINT LOUVERTURE.
Arrived, ship Three Sisters, Murphy, Liverpool, via N. York; Eclipse, Jones, Calcutta; Camilla, West, Canton; brig Amiable Creole, Eldredge, St. Sebastians, via N. York; Nancy, Cassin, C. Francois; sch'r Sally, Stoneman, Passamaquody; Swallow, Gilies, Richmond; Betsey, Hassan, do.
Mr. George Roberts has obligingly furnished the following:
Ship Eclipse, Jones, sailed from Calcutta the 18th Oct. in co. with the ship Rebecca, Pitt, of and for Baltimore, and brig —, —, of and for New-York, under convoy of an English frigate sent out for the purpose of recapturing the Kent, a valuable East-Indiaman, which had been captured by the La Confiance, Sircouf, (a French vessel of war) —The frigate came in sight of the La Confiance, and obliged her to throw all her guns overboard. The Eclipse parted from the frigate one night while they were still in chase, and parted from the two American vessels off the Sands Heads. Captain Jones spoke a vessel off the Sands Heads, from Puli-Penage, and was informed by the same that Batavia had surrendered to the 12th regiment of British infantry and five frigates sent from Madras for that purpose. The Eclipse towed into the Cape of Good Hope, the brig Lapwing, Clapp, of and for New-York, from Batavia, which vessel had been ashore on Robbins Island, and had been almost lost. The Eclipse sailed from the Cape of Good Hope the 2d December. Left there the brig —, from Madras bound to Baltimore, belonging to Boston.
Captain Jones, of the ship Eclipse, left at Calcutta the following vessel, viz.
Ships Neptune, Jeffery; Perseverance, Williamson; Grace, Davis; Cleopatra, Naylor, of and for Philadelphia, to sail shortly—Swain, —, New-York; Herald, —, Boston; Bedford, —, Salem; Sphinx, —, Baltimore; Castor and Pollux, —, do—to sail soon.
Left at Reedy Island yesterday, fourteen sail of outward bound vessels.
Sch'r Assistance, Man, of and for this
port, is taken and sent into Jamaica for adjudication.
Sch'r Sally, Glenn, from hence, has arrived at Port-Royal, after a passage of twenty-one days.
Sch'r Friendship, Taylor, from hence, has arrived at Port-Republican.
The ship Camilla, West, sailed from Canton the first August—Left there the Rebecca, M'Kever, of Philadelphia, and Mary, Percival, of Boston. Passed thro' the straits of Allas the 20th Sept. and spoke there the ship Jane, Yard, of and from Philadelphia for Canton, all well—touched at St. Helena the 11th Dec. left no Americans vessels at that place—spoke off the coast ship Henry, Anderson, sand for ballast, from Liverpool, and sloop Harmony, from Philadelphia to Trinidad.
Alexandria Advertiser.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 4.
We understand that the President of the United States has summoned the Senate to meet at the Senate Chamber, on Wednesday the 4th of March next.
A bill has passed the house of representatives of Kentucky, allowing aliens in that state to hold lands in fee simple.
The total expenditures of the government of the state of Kentucky from Nov. 1, 1799, to November 4, 1800, is 53,431 dollars.
Extract of a letter from capt. Towers, to his owner in Philadelphia, dated Kingston, December 20, 1800.
"I arrived here yesterday, after a boisterous passage of 19 days. On the 16th inst. east end of Jamaica bearing S. S. W. distance 12 leagues, tell in with the British ship of war America, capt. Bingham, of 64 guns, ashore on the Formages of Ants, with her main and mizen masts gone, 6 feet water in the hold, all the guns and provisions thrown overboard, boats insufficient to take off the crew, amounting to 450 souls, and expecting every moment that all on board would perish. By the assistance of my brig, anchors, and great exertions got the ship off, and three days afterwards saw her safe in Jamaica. My brig has been injured by my getting the America off; but the captain promises me a handsome reward from government—however that will avail nothing; for without any compensation the saving of 450 men from destruction, will always prove a pleasing gratification to me."
Just Received,
And for sale low for Cash.
50 barrels of tar, and
A few hundred bushels James River Coal.
Also on hand,
15,000 eighteen inch shingles,
6,000 three feet do.
HENRY & THOMAS MOORE, February 4. d
Mechanic Relief Society.
THE members will please to take notice, that a quarterly meeting of the Society will be held on Wednesday evening next, the 4th February, at 6 o'clock, at M'Cleod's Tavern.
JOHN V. THOMAS, Sec.
February 3.

LAST NOTICE.
Whereas a Commission of bankruptcy is awarded and issued forth against Elisha Cullen Dick, of the town of Alexandria, and he having surrendered himself to the major part of the commissioners named in the said commission, at the Washington tavern in Alexandria, on the 31st day of January last, when and where he underwent his second examination; he is therefore required again to attend at the said tavern, on Friday the 19th day of this present month, at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, to undergo his final examination, when and where the creditors of the said Elisha Cullen Dick, either in his separate capacity or as one of the firm of James Mease M c Rea and Company, may attend to prove their debts—at which time and place the creditors aforesaid are to assent to or dissent from the allowance of his certificate—and to choose assignees.
All persons indebted to the said bankrupt, or who may have any of his effects, are not to pay or deliver the same but to whom the Commissioners may appoint, but to give notice to
HENRY MOORE, Secretary to the Commission.
February 3. d
Ricketts, Newton & Co.
Have just received and for Sale, at the corner store, opposite John Janney's, the following GOODS —wholesale and retail, for Cash and Produce:
Superfine and 2d Cloths
 Blue Plains  do. Frizes  do. Kerseys  White, yellow and green Flannels  do. do. do. Baizes  Rose and duffil Blankets  Durants, Camblets and Wildbores  Russells and Antilons  Cotton and linen Checks  Kerseymeres and Swandowns  Velvets, Thicksets and Cords  A handsome assortment of Dimities  Mens' and Womens' cotton Hose  do. silk do.  Black Crape  White and black silk and beaver Gloves  Modes, Sattins and Persians  Sewing Silks  Calicoes and Chintzes  Russia Sheeting and Irish Linens. 
They have also,
Brown Sugar by the hhd. and barrel, loaf and lump do. and a quantity of Plaister of Paris.
They give Cash for
Wheat, Rye and Corn.
Left by capt. Mortimore, of the Baltimore packet, at their warehouse, sundry Mill Irons —The owner is requested to take them away.
January 31. d
Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria.
The Stockholders in this institution are hereby notified, that a dividend of five per cent. is this day declared on that part of the capital stock of the company which is now paid. Payable to the stockholders, or to their order, in ten days from this date.
By order of the President and Directors.
J. B. NICKOLLS, Sec.
January 31. eo(2)
FOR SALE
By William Hartshorne,
On Col. Hooe's wharf,
James River Coal,
 Philadelphia loaf and lump Sugar,  Hard Soap by the box,  Also, a few boxes of crown or shaving Soap,  Hay in bundles of about 200 weight,  Flour, Bran and Shorts by the quantity,  Tobacco in kegs. 
Cash given for Wheat, Rye and Corn.
1st mo. 26. eo2m
Shreve and Janney,
Have for sale at their store, on Union-street, the following articles—
 24 barrels tanners oil  50 boxes Florence do.  20 do. Castile soap  60 do. dipt candles  30 do. mould do.  80 do. Havanna segars  60 barrels East & West-India sugars  Hyson, suchong and bohea teas  4th proof Barcelona brandy  Writing and wrapping paper  China assorted in boxes  Russia duck and cordage  A variety of shoes and soles leather  A few bales of Gurrahs, and a few Pieces of handsome furniture.  January 28. eo 
NOTICE.
All persons having claims against the estate of the late THOMAS PORTER , are requested to bring them forward on or before the first of March next, and those indebted to him are respectfully requested to make payment to
SARAH PORTER, Adm'x.
Jan. 1. (2)eo
For Sale, or to be Leased,
In the City of Washington, and possession given immediately,
A handsome, well-finished three story BUILDING , on New-Jersey Avenue, in the vicinity of the Capitol, and the nearest dwelling on the south of it on Capitol Hill. The lot and house are well situated, and will always command an uninterrupted view of the whole city and George-Town to the west, as well as of the Potomac and Eastern Branch. The house contains 10 convenient rooms, exclusive of garret and cellars.
If sold, United States stock, or stock in any of the banks would be taken for the whole or part of the payment, and a good title given; or, if leased for 5 years, the terms would be accommodating to a good tenant.
Further particulars may be known by applying to Mr. Joseph Hodgson, in that city, or the subscriber in Baltimore.
MATHEW BROWN.
January 15. eo
To be Rented,
And possession given immediately—
A two story house and garden on Duke-street, about two squares to the eastward of the stone bridge.
W. HARTSHORNE.
A number of valuable lots in different situations, to be sold—also, a brick house in King-street, in the tenure of Thomas Cruse;—a part of the purchase money will be taken in Alexandria Bank shares at par, and for some of the lots, Alexandria Insurance shares at a price to be agreed on. For part of the purchase money of either, a liberal credit may be had.
PROSPECTUS OF A NEW, WEEKLY, LITERARY PUBLICATION, CHILD OF PALLAS. DEVOTED MOSTLY TO THE BELLES LETTRES.
BY CHARLES PRENTISS.
Quid sit pulchrum, quid turpe, quid utile, quid non, docet. HORACE.
To the Patrons of Literature, and the Promoters of useful and rational Entertainment.
To you this child of expectation looks up anxiously for the indulgent smiles of encouragement and support.
As modesty well becomes the infancy of a life which she hopes will be long, pleasant and useful, it were unnecessary to prejudice friends in her favour, by faithless declarations of great future performances: to the discerning therefore it will be only proper to observe, that, added to her personal decency of garb, she hopes her intellectual accomplishments will be such as to engage general favor and esteem.
She engages not to be the tell-tale of slander, or of individual reflections. Her disposition shall be innocent; and in the exercise of candor to others she presumes that by them the mantle of charity will be kindly thrown over any foibles or blemishes, which may inadvertently arise from her youth or inexperience. Her countenance will be sometimes overcast, with anger and the indignant frowns of reproof, when combating the inauspicious aspect of vice, and the baneful force of fashionable crime, and the menacing weapons of wickedness of every shape. On the trifling or immoral whims of crazy custom, she will occasionally throw a smile of beneficial effect, and not unfrequently occasion a merry but useful laugh.
Happy in using her little utmost to render more firm the pillars of government and supporters of society, of the sacred and lovely charms of religion and virtue, whose separate existence she deems incompatible, she will be a constant admirer and warm advocate.
She has no creed in politics, and with her opinions on that subject, she is determined never to trouble the reader.
To the Fair, who justly claim, and will ever receive, her fervent considerations of esteem and affection, she hopes to become a little closet confident, a much loved friend and adopted sister. To many a pretty tale she will cause them to listen, and while amusing the fancy, slyly convey the moral to the heart.
Sensible of the unfavourable reception which has constantly attended similar attempts, heretofore, in America, she trembles with fearful apprehensions, lest she, like her predecessors, should be left to pine away a short existence in the cold and distant valley of unanxious neglect, or having suffered for a time the rude blasts of uncandid criticism and severe reproach, without a parent or a friend, die at last the hapless infant of abortive presumption; but animated with perhaps an inconsiderate hope, she looks forward to the day of strength and respect, from the guardian attention and assiduity of,
THE EDITOR.
You hear the plea; it is made to discerning and liberal citizens, who cannot
but be sensible of the many advantages resulting from a publication of this nature; if it inculcate principles of virtue; if it mingle improvement or amusement and moral lessons with entertainment. The parent must be sensible that works of this kind are always perused with avidity by the younger branches of the family; let him not then neglect every favourable opportunity of giving them instruction in the gratification of their wills.
Of stale or insipid extracts, it is presumed the reader will never complain. One half at least, of every week's publication shall be original matter. With political transactions it will have no other connection than a short and impartial summary of events in the last page.
The Sons and Daughters of Apollo, gentlemen of talents, learning and leisure, are cordially and respectfully invited, to make it the repository of their various lucubrations.
CONDITIONS.
I. The price to subscribers will be one Dollar per volume; to be paid at the close of every eighth week.
II. Each volume to consist of eight numbers, or 288 pages.
III. Postmasters and others, who subscribe for six, shall be entitled to a seventh, gratis.
Subscriptions received at the Office of the ALEXANDRIA ADVERTISER.
Liverpool Salt for Sale.
Just landing from on board the ship Sucecess, Capt. King,
STOVED SALT,
in sacks and bulk.
Also, a few hundred bushels of
Liverpool Coal.
Wm. J. HALL.
Merchants' Wharf, Jan. 29. d
Agreeable to a Deed of Trust,
from Capt. John Hawkins, of Fauquier County, to the subscribers, WILL BE SOLD on the premises, to the highest bidder, for ready money, on Wednesday the 25th of February next,
The Plantation whereon the said Hawkins now lives: containing about 670 acres, lying within 30 miles of Fredericksburg, Falmouth and Dumfries, and within about 40 of Alexandria, George-Town and the Federal City.
It is thought unnecessary to be particular as to the quality and improvements, as a person inclined to purchase will no doubt view the same before the day of sale.
DUNBAR & VASS.
Falmouth, Virginia, } Jan. 20, 1800. dz1(31)
For Rent.
The subscriber will lease or rent his commodious fire-proof
Bake and Dwelling House,
on Town-Point, where he now lives, with three Ovens, a good Store-house and Stable for two horses, with a well enclosed Wood-Yard, and every other convenience for carrying on the baking business to advantage.
JAMES DICKINSON.
Norfolk, Jan. 8. dz2(30)
PRINTED BY
S. SNOWDEN & Co.