Alexandria advertiser and commercial intelligencer (Alexandria [Va.]), 1801-01-07 00:00:00

CONDITIONS OF PUBLICATION of the
Alexandria Advertiser
AND
Commercial Intelligencer.
I. It will be published on a half sheet of super-royal paper of good quality, and with an elegant type, of which this paper contains a specimen.
II. It will be published every day at 3 o'clock, and delivered to subscribers in town with the utmost regularity and expedition, and transmitted to those at a distance through the most early and regular channels of conveyance.
III. The price will be Five Dollars per annum, to be paid one half on receipt of the first number, the remainder at the end of the year.
Sales by Auction.
On THURSDAY, The 8th of Jan. 1801, at 10 o'clock, will be Sold, at our Auction Room, Whiskey in tierces and bls.
 Rum in barrels  French Brandy in pipes  Malaga Wine in pipes and qr. casks  Brown Sugar in barrels  Loaf do. in lots  Soap in boxes  Nails in casks  Hardware in lots 
Together with
A great variety of Dry Goods:
Among which are
 Carpets and Carpeting  Plains  Plaids  Duffs  Flannels  Swansdown  Kerseymeres  Coating  Broadcloths,  Stuffs  Irish Linens  Humhums  Muslins  Checks  Shawls  Handkerchiefs  Leather Shoes 
And a number of other articles HENRY & THOS. MOORE, Dec. 26. Auctioneers.
FOR SALE,
A LOT of GROUND
On the corner of Queen and Fairfax streets, extending 123 feet 2 inches on Queen street, 45 feet 8 inches on Fairfax street: this property is liable to no incumbrance. For terms apply to Mr. John Green, Alexandria, or Mr. Hezekiah Price, Old-Town, Baltimore.
Liberal credit will be allowed for the payment.
January 2. 6018 1/2
Boarding and Lodging
May be had for five or six gentlemen, by applying on
JOHN GORDON, King Street. December 16.
Congress of the United States.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY, December 31.
The house went into a committee of the whole, on a bill for continuing in force "an act laying duties on licentes for selling wine, and foreign distilled spirituous liquors by retail, on property sold by auction, and on carriages."
Mr. Morris in the chair.
Mr. Varnum moved to limit the duration of the bill to two years from the 1st of March, 1801.
The motion was supported by Messrs. Varnum, Randolph and Nicholas, and opposed by Mr. Criswold.
On the question being taken, there appeared 39 ayes, and 39 noes. The chairman declaring himself in the negative, it was lost.
Mr. Bird disliked that part of the bill which gave to the judicatories of the several states the right of taking cognizance of suits for duties payable under it. He declared himself averse to this investment of judicial power, on the ground of expediency; but said that he should not on this occasion oppose the bill for that reason. But he deemed the judicial power as delegated by the bill, to be unconstitutional. The bill must be amended, before it could obtain his vote. He therefore moved so to amend the 1st section, as to confine all judicial power exercised under the bill to the federal courts.
The constitution expressly declares that "the judicial power shall extend to all cases, in law and equity, arising under this constitution, the laws of the United States, &c." If the judicial power extended to all cases, surely it must extend to the present case. The constitution further declared "that the judicial power of the United States shall be vested in one supreme court, and in such inferior courts, as the congress may from time to time ordain and establish."—It was self-evident, that the state courts could not be embraced by the expression one supreme court . And as to the expression, inferior courts , he would ask whether the state tribunals could come within its meaning. It was evident to him that they could not, as they were not appointed by congress; as no cause of error lies from the state to the federal courts, or writ of mandamus . It followed that they were not included in the true meaning of the term inferior courts ; they were neither ordained or appointed by congress.
Further, the constitution prescribed, that the judges should receive fixed salaries payable by the United States, and hold their offices during good behaviour . This direction of the constitution precluded all other but federal courts.
Besides these constitutional injunctions, which on his mind were irresistible, on a view of the expediency of the delegated powers, it would appear that extensive and great inconvenience attended the exercise
of it. Under the jurisprudence of the several states, such a variety of laws and mode of procedure existed, as produced the greatest embarrassments. Besides, it was not unfair to suppose in the succession of events the occasional existence in particular states, of a spirit of hostility to some measure of the federal government.
On the whole, Mr. Bird said that he considered congress as equally incompetent to transfuse into the state courts, the right of judging on cases that occurred under the constitution and laws of the federal government, as they were to trans-fuse executive or legislative power, derived from that constitution, into the hands of the executive and legislative organs of the state government.
Mr. Dennis was so impressed with the importance of a full and fair discussion of the point submitted to the house by the gentleman from New-York, that he recommended a suspension of any consideration of it, until the judiciary bill came before them. Then the question might be met directly. He therefore moved that the committee rise, report progress, and sit a gain, which was accordingly done, and leave to sit a gain granted.
On motion of Mr. H. Lee the house went into a committee of the whole on the bill in relation to
THE TERRITORY OF COLUMBIA, Mr. Morris in the chair.
Mr. Randolph moved to strike out the first section, which is in these words:
"Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the laws of the state of Virginia as they existed on the first Monday of December in the year 1800, shall be and continue in force in that part of the district of Columbia which was ceded by the said state to the United States, and by them accepted for the permanent seat of government; and that the laws of the state of Maryland, as they existed on the said first Monday in December, shall be and continue in force in that part of the said district which was ceded by that state to the United States, and by them accepted as aforesaid."
Mr. H. Lee said, that he was far from considering this bill as an act of supererogation. The constitution had prohibited the states of Virginia and Maryland from legislating for the territory; and it now became a question, whether the existing laws of those states were in force: which question might come before the judiciary. To obviate all doubts, this bill in the shape of a declaratory one was reported.
Mr. Nicholas. This bill is not in my opinion merely an act of supererogation, but an act of immense mischief. I do not agree with my colleague in the construction he has given of the constitution. He is of opinion, that the powers given to Congress on this subject must be exercised by them. I think differently. These
powers are like many others conferred, which may or may not be exercised. It had never been contended that we are obliged to carry into execution all the powers with which we are invested. It is true, that we have nearly exhausted the letter of our charter, in the extent to which we have gone. But this fact furnished no reason for going still further.
A construction contrary to that contended for had been given by Congress in the exercise of their power. The act of acceptance passed by Congress confirming the cessions made by Virginia and Maryland expressly declares "that the operation of the laws of the state within such district shall not be affected by this acceptance, until the term fixed for the removal of the government thereto, and until Congress shall otherwise by law provide. "
Great force was attached to that part of the constitution that gave Congress exclusive legislation over the territory. But the same clause of the Constitution gave the same power over forts, magazines, arsenals, &c. Yet this power had never yet been assumed by Congress. The possession of the right had heretofore been considered as sufficient; the exercise of it was reserved until particular circumstances should occur, which rendered it necessary.
I believe the committee are not prepared to sanction the bill. To sanction it would be to place the inhabitants of the territory in a situation for which they would not be thankful. It would impose upon them all the laws of Virginia and Maryland, as they existed on the first Monday in December, without those improvements which experience may suggest.
If this bill passed, it would leave a considerable portion of the inhabitants of the territory without any judicial authorities to which they could appeal. There were parts of Fairfax, Montgomery, and Prince George counties, which would have no courts to which they could apply.
Another consequence that would result from the construction attempted to be given to the constitution, was the deprivation of the inhabitants of all participation either in federal or state legislation. As by the construction, they would cease to be the subjects of state taxation, it could not be expected that the states would permit them, without being taxed, to be represented.
Could any man desire to place the citizens of the district in such a state? To deprive them of the common right of participating in the passage of laws which all the citizens enjoyed?
If the construction be found, that we are bound to legislate, then all the judicial proceedings which had taken place since the 1st Monday in December, whatever affected either property or persons, were mere nullities. I do not, however, believe the construction to be found. I believe it opposed both to the spirit of the

Constitution, and to the construction hitherto given by Congress. But were the construction just, to adopt the proposed would be to act in a way inadequate to the importance of the subject, which involving in it a system of government for a large portion of citizens, ought not to be acted upon with precipitation, but ought to be conducted by the collected wisdom of Congress, derived from mature and deliberate reflection.
Mr. H. Lee. My colleague is wrong in supposing this bill a part of a permanent system. It is only intended to cure an evil which some persons have supposed to exist, from the doubtful jurisdiction of the states of Virginia and Maryland.
Mr. Otis. Though I respect the talents of the committee who brought in the bill, yet I cannot discover that it contains a single new view or provision. Though myself at a loss to account for the necessity of the bill, the committee were certainly right if they entertained doubts, to attract the attention of the house to them.
By the first act of Congress accepting the cession the United States have legislated in the very way the gentleman from Virginia now proposes. As it appeared at that time impossible to form a code of laws, those of Maryland and Virginia were confirmed till Congress should legislate.
If it were true that Congress were bound to legislate themselves an equal obligation existed at that time with that which existed at present. Their not having done so was a strong argument against the construction now contended for.
To pass such a law as that now offered, instead of removing, would be the very mean of exciting doubt. The time may arrive when Congress must go into the subject in detail, and make those provisions that were necessary for a great city. But at present such a step was not called for: the territory had gone on very well for 10 years without the interposition of Congress, and I have no doubt it will continue for some time to come to do well without it.
Mr. Bird. This question, in my opinion, is susceptible of a very clear and precise solution. Did the acts of cession by the states, and of acceptance by Congress, take away the jurisdiction of those states, and vest it in Congress? The acts of Maryland and Virginia make a complete cession of soil and jurisdiction to Congress. This cession has been accepted by Congress. What is the consequence of one sovereign transferring all jurisdiction to another sovereign? Does not the power that cedes give up all right whatever to that which accepts? The words of the constitution are that Congress shall exercise exclusive legislation. If Congress exercise exclusive legislation, does it not follow that no other body can exercise any legislation whatever.
The gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Nicholas) does not deny the power altogether, but limits it as a power, that may or may not be exercised by Congress; and in illustration of his opinion, instances the power to naturalise and to pass bankrupt laws. But the cases are not analogous. These last are powers that Congress may or may not exercise. The constitution does not apply to them the term exclusive ; nor are they shut out by the actual words of that instrument, or by necessary inference.
Over some objects Congress has partial authority; but in this case their authority is absolute and exclusive of all other; from which irresistibly follows the absolute cession of all power in the ceding body.
It was undoubtedly the intention of the framers of the constitution that after this territory became the actual seat of government, no authority, but that of Congress, should be in force.
The act of cession by the states, after stating the terms of cession, contains a proviso, that the power of legislation thereby vested in Congress shall not impair the force of the laws of Maryland and Virginia till Congress shall otherwise by law provide. A proviso is to prevent something from being done, that without it would be done. Congress declared the same thing, when they accepted the cession with the same proviso. This proviso tends to supercede the cession. Having this effect it must fall as conflicting with the act to which it is a proviso. It must be considered as absolutely void. A proviso is intended to prevent the operation of a particular thing, not to give an operation to it. It may prevent the enactment of a particular law, but it cannot reenact that law.
A difference of opinion seemed to exist as to the period when the powers of the states were superceded. It was the opinion of some gentlemen that they ceased on the completion of the act of cession. The committee consider them as ceasing on the 1st Monday in December of the present year. It became the house solemnly to settle this point, before they entered into the consideration of a complicated system of government.
If the legislative powers of the states had ceased, it follows as a necessary consequence, that the judicial powers had also ceased.
For these reasons I think it will be best to declare that things shall remain in statu quo. If the ordinary jurisdiction established be not competent, it may easily be made so.
Mr. Randolph was not prepared to enter into a discussion of the important point before the committee. He would only state the dilemma in which the inhabitants of Columbia would be placed by the construction given to the constitution by his colleague, who was of opinion, that all legislative and judicial powers derived from Virginia and Maryland, ceased on the 1st Monday of December. If this construction were true, was it not equally true that the bill now proposed would be of the same validity, and of no more validity than the act of acceptance passed by Congress.
From his unpreparedness, what he offered was submitted more in the form of hints than of correct arguments. But it seemed to him that if the construction contended for should prevail, it would disfranchise the corporations of George-town, and Alexandria, and all other corporations within the district. Would it not place the territory in a situation of the conquered country? According to this construction, the territory was in a state of anarchy, and murder, if committed, would be no crime.
Further, if the constitutional provision is obligatory on us to assume exclusive legislation, are we not bound to establish uniform laws throughout the entire district, and of course are we not prohibited from establishing one system in one place, and a different system in another?
One other objection merited the gentleman's notice. The laws of Virginia precluded every officer under its government from holding any federal office.
From the impression made on his mind by those considerations Mr. Randolph
said, he would be wanting to himself and to his country if he agreed to the bill. He hoped, therefore that the committee would rise and not precipitate a decision.
Mr. Harper was in favor of the motion that the committee should rise, for the purpose of recommitting the bill to a select committee. He would state his reasons. The object of the first section was to assume jurisdiction. That was his object. He wished the establishment of a judiciary, competent to carrying into effect the laws now existing. He wished this object to be accomplished in a fair, open, direct way. At some future period, Congress might find it necessary to enter into a system of legislation in detail, and to have established numerous police regulations. At this time the present exigency would be provided for by confirming the laws of Virginia and Maryland, and by giving effect to them by the institution of a competent judicial authority.
Mr. Nicholas said, that he should vote for the committee rising from a different motive from that which actuated the gentleman from South-Carolina. He hoped the business would be suffered for the present to sleep.
The construction given to the constitution by the gentleman from New-York, did not render it merely expedient in Congress to assume jurisdiction, but rendered it an absolute duty. In reply to his remarks the gentleman had alledged, that the authority given by the constitution in relation to this territory, differed from the other powers vested in Congress inasmuch as the former investment of power had connected with it the word exclusive ; whereas the latter had not. The meaning which Mr. Nicholas affixed to this word, was altogether different from the one now contended for. The constitution does not say, Congress shall possess exclusive power of legislation : but that they shall have power of exercising exclusive legislation .
The acts of cession and acceptance contained a construction directly opposite to that now made. They declare that the laws of Maryland and Virginia shall continue till Congress shall alter them. Their cessation is made to depend on an uncertain event, viz. whether Congress shall legislate or not. Not a title in the constitution or in our practice under the constitution, infringed our liberty to act or not to act.
What would be the effect of this law on the inhabitants of the Territory? It would impose on them the laws of Maryland and Virginia, as they existed on a particular day, without any capability of improvements from the improved code of those states.
Mr. Nicholas had heard of no inconveniences which had arisen from the non-assumption of power by Congress. The people in the territory of Columbia had been a happy people for more than a hundred years under their state governments; and he had no doubt would remain so without the interposition of Congress, who, at present were unqualified to act.
After some remarks by Messrs. Harper and H. Lee, the question was taken on the committee rising, and carried without a division.
The committee rose, the chairman requested leave to sit again, which was not granted.
Mr. Harper then moved to recommit the bill to the same committee that introduced it.
Mr. Harper. The objection made by the gentleman from Virginia to an assumption of power by Congress goes to say that the constitutional provision, the acts of cession of Maryland and Virginia, and the act of acceptance by Congress, shall be all a dead letter; and that the territory shall continue, as heretofore, under its old jurisdiction. This was to all intents and purposes the amount of the gentleman's remarks. He asked, what necessity for the exercise of power by Congress? Had not the citizens lived happily for a hundred years under the state governments? This Mr. H. did not dispute. It was probably true that they had lived as happily as other portions of citizens under the state governments. But the provision of the constitution on this subject had not been made with this view. It was made to bestow dignity and independence on the government of the union. It was to protect it from such outrages, as had occurred when it was differently situated, when it was without competent legislative, executive, and judicial power to insure to itself respect. While the government was under the guardianship of state laws, those laws might be inadequate to its protection, or there might exist a spirit hostile to the general government, or at any rate indisposed to give it proper protection. This was one reason, among others, for the provisions of the constitution, confirmed and carried into effect by the acts of Maryland and Virginia, and by the act of Congress.
The object of the gentleman was to defeat all these acts, and all these arrangements, in subversion of that provision which the constitution had made, and of that necessity which it had foreseen.
The gentleman from Virginia requires more time. He thinks we are not prepared to legislate. But if his (Mr. H's) ideas were adopted there would be no occasion for this. The territory has laws; and Mr. H. believed these laws would answer very well for fifty years, without giving Congress much trouble to modify them.
The establishment of a judiciary would be very easy, and would require little time. As to a police, it may be necessary hereafter. At present it was not necessary. With regard to a corporation, he was against it at present, and did not think it would ever be necessary.
Mr. Nicholas did not consider the power imparted by the constitution as imperative. He therefore could not fairly be charged with a desire to deviate from the designs of its framers. The power was like a coat of armour, intended to protect the government in periods of danger, and not to be worn at all times for parade and shew.
Remarks had been made to shew that the dignity and independence of the government required the assumption. All such arguments when set against the happiness of the people were inconclusive. Mr. N. had always been taught to consider the true dignity of the government as indissolubly connected with the happiness of the people; and was unable to unlearn all that he had heretofore acquired to this effect.
Mr. Craik agreed with the member from South-Carolina as far as his remarks went: but he did not think that they extended far enough. He was himself friendly to the institution of a local government for local purposes, leaving all federal powers to Congress. If the bill should be recommitted, he would be prepared to offer a plan conformably to these ideas.

He felt no alarm at the doubts suggested of the validity of the laws of Maryland and Virginia. He believed that they were still in force; and did not think there was any absolute necessity for Congress to act at all at present. Still he thought that delay would only multiply the inconveniences already experienced in the formation of a plan of government. A plan might be so framed as to protect the general government, as well as in some degree, the inhabitants of the territory from any tyranny that some gentlemen supposed might be exercised by Congress. He concluded by expressing a hope that a completely organized system might be formed and adopted.
Mr. Dennis coincided with his colleague in desiring an assumption of jurisdiction by Congress. But before he committed himself by an opinion, he wished to see an entire plan submitted. As to the bill before the committee, it was little more than an abstract proposition.
Mr. Dennis believed that the assumption by Congress would be agreeable to the inhabitants, if a good system were adopted.
Mr. C. Goodrich advocated the commitment of the bill, that a more complete system might be devised, and submitted to the house in a more direct way.
The question of recommittal was carried, and two members were added to the original committee.
The committee of revisal and unfinished business reported it as their opinion, that it would be proper to continue the Seditious Law, which expires with the close of this session, for two years longer.
Ordered to lie on the table.
SALEM, December 23.
Above 200 cords of wood, chiefly board logs, drifted ashore upon Lynn beach on Saturday night last, supposed to have been carried out of the rivers at the eastward in a late fresh.
Within a few days a number of boxes of candles have drifted ashore at Nahant.
Captain Preble of the Essex, received public testimonies of the good attention he paid to the fleet under his convoy from Batavia.
The Riches of the Sea.
The schr. Two Sisters, David Forris, jun. master, lately arrived at Beverly, from the Grand Bank, with a cargo of 500 quintals of fish. This vessel has performed three fishing voyages this season, in the short space of six months and a half, and landed at least 1700 quintals—a very rare instance of industry and success.
December 26.
Entered, schr. Catharine, Obeah, Havana; schrs. Patty, Knowlton; Britain, Woodberry; Cynthia, Ramidell, West-Indies.
Cleared, ship Rising States, Beckford, Savanna; brig Nancy, Barker, Barcelona; schrs. Five Sisters, Babbidge, New Orleans; Industry, Cook, Parlermo; brig Nancy, Williams, Barcelona; brig Friendship, Ray, Trinidad.
BOSTON, December 25, TELEGRAPH.
We understand that a Mr. Grout has obtained a patent for the exclusive erection of Telegraphs in this country: that he is now in town, and proposes to make a few experiments, to demonstrate the goodness of his system, by signal staffs, &c. to be raised on Fort Independence and Fort-hill, and that he has further in view the erection of a telegraphic line of communication
on between Boston and Martha's Vineyard, if there are no insurmountable natural impediments; and at least, so far in that direction as will greatly facilitate the receipt of news from thence.
December 26.
NAVAL AFFAIRS.
Orders, we learn, have been issued from the Navy Office to suspend the equipment of our national ships for the present.
FROM LONDON.
We yesterday learnt, that a vessel had arrived at New-Bedford, after a passage of 35 days from England; but we have not been able to ascertain the news received by her.—If the report is well founded she must have brought papers to the middle of November. We have already received London papers to the 13th of November.
NEW-YORK, January 1.
The United States frigate Constellation, Barron, esq. and Ganges sloop of war, John Molowny, esq. came up from the Hook yesterday, and anchored opposite the Watering place, Staten Island.
Census taken in 1790, for Richmond county (N. Y.) amounted to 3829 souls, Taken in 1800 amounts to 4563. Increase in 10 years, 734.
A bookseller of Halle, in Germany, has published a prospectus of a New Literary Journal, to commence on the 1st of January, 1801, in which authors are to give notices and reviews of their own works.
Entered, ship Cygnet, Gore, Jamaica; brig Delight, Ingraham, Falmouth, 44 days; sloop President, —, Charleston.
Cleared, ships Jacob, Moore, Madeira; Olive Branch, Bunker, Londonderry; Allegany, Paddock, Liverpool; William & Jane, Stephens, Dublin; snow Ann and Mary, Campbell, Cape-Francois; brigs Union, Adams, Jamaica; Dorsey, Ellis, Port Republican; schrs. Den Gode Hen-sight, Smith, St. Croix; Juno, Norton, Port Republican; sloops Betsy, Bunker, Cape de Verde; Abigail, Hill, Havana.
The Ship Sophia has arrived at Charleston from this port. The schr. Maria from this port, arrived at Porto-Rico in 21 days.
PHILADELPHIA, January 1.
Arrived, Schr. Deborah, Lewis, Boston; British brig Experiment, Bailey, Tortola.
Cleared, brig Molly, Harding, N. W. Coast of America.
Captain Lord, of the brig Abigail, from Madeira, left there the following vessels:
Ship Juno, brigs Paramaribo and Hunter, all of N. York. The two former to sail in two days for the Isle of May, the latter next day for N. York.
January 2.
The ship Neptune, Dandelot, has arrived at the Point, a cartel from Bordeaux, which place she left the 2d. and the river the 20th of November. She brings Paris Gazettes to the 16th of November, from which we shall extract for our next. Capt. Dandelot, who came up to town this morning, informs that the utmost tranquility prevails in the interior of France, and that the congress at Luneville were proceeding in the discussion of the objects of their mission. The people of France evince an ardent desire for peace with the United States.
There are a number of passengers on board, one of whom is general Ira Allen, of Vermont.
Arrived, Schooner Olive Branch, Hanover New-York.
Cleared, brig Harriet, Shockley, Port Republican; Hope, Richards, Cape-Francois; Schooner Jane, Toby, Havanna.
Capt. Dandelot, from Bordeaux, passed in the river coming up, ship James, Moore, from Rio de la Plata.
PITTSBURGH, December 19.
Yesterday arrived here General JAMES WILKINSON, commander of the American army. He was met and escorted to town by a number of gentlemen both civil and military. He arrived sooner than was expected or the evidences of respect and attachment would have been more numerous. He was saluted by a discharge of cannon from Fort Fayette, and the countenances of the citizens said welcome to this highly esteemed officer.
Mrs. Wilkinson came with the General, and is in good health, considering the fatigue of such a long journey at this inclement season.
Alexandria Advertiser.
WEDNESDAY, January 7.
The following is the number of Inhabitants of Alexandria, according to the last census, taken by Thomas Pollard, in the year 1800.
  Free white males under 10 years old 590   Do. over 10 and under 16 246   Do. over 16 and under 26 415   Do. over 26 and under 45 489   Do. over 45 192   Free white females under 10 551   Do. over 10 and under 16 255   Do. over 16 and under 26 406   Do. over 26 and under 45 424   Do. over 45 162   Free mulattoes and negroes 365   Slaves 905   Total 5000 
A motion was made and carried in the House of Delegates of this state, on Wednesday last, for postponing the further consideration of the bill "Changing the present system of the high court of chancery," until the next session of the General Assembly—in order to ascertain the sense of the people of this commonwealth on that important subject.
Among the benefits to be derived from a change of administration, we may enumerate the following.
1st. The pages of the Aurora, and its little dependant papers will be no longer stained with calumny and abuse of upright men; but will for four years, be filled with eulogies on the administration. This exchange will be much for the better. As praise is more commendable than blame. If the administration should be good, the praise will be merited—If evil, still the Aurora, to be consistent, must applaud it—And the praise of a bad administration, is a less evil than the abuse of a good one.
2d. The friends of the late and present administration will have a favorable opportunity to show the excellence of their principles and their superior merit, by treating the government with respect in the hands of men they do not like. The papers of that party will not be filled with lies and slander against the constituted authorities; but with a dignity that disdains the meanness and the baseness of bringing the laws into contempt, they will strive to give efficacy to the government.
3. The pretended republicans, who at the marks of respect paid to Gen. Washington and Mr. Adams, and who are already preparing to celebrate the accession of their good, Jefferson, with magnificent festivals, will now learn that there is a wide difference between directing and abusing, the administration of government—between the responsibility of acting at the head of affairs, and the responsibility of complaining at the acts of others.
[ N. Y. Com. Ad. ]
By a proclamation from the Board of Health of Philadelphia, no vessel from any Spanish port in Europe is permitted to approach nearer that city than Marcus Hook, without their special permission first being obtained.
Tax on Bachelors.
A bill has been introduced into the House of Representatives of North-Carolina, for the further taxing of Bachelors, and to forward the population of the state, by promoting and encouraging Matrimony,
Prices Current at Havana, December 1.
Flour 16 to 17 dols. per barrel. Beef, 18 to 20 do. do. Pork none at market, and in great demand.
Alexandria Dancing Assemblies.
The Ladies and Gentlemen of Alexandria are informed that the second Assembly will be held at Gadsby's Hotel, on Thursday evening next, the 8th inst. January 6.
Sales by Auction.
On THURSDAY, The 8th inst. at 10 o'clock, will be sold at our Auction Room,
Malaga Wine in pipes,
French Brandy in do. Sugar in barrels, Bacon in lots, Soal Leather in lots, Soap in boxes, Nails in casks.
DRY GOODS,
Among which are Broadcloths, kerseymeres, coatings, swansdowns, plains, duffsils, flannels, Irish linens, humhums, German and British osnaburghs, chintzes, calicoes, jaconet, book and tamboured muslins, and a number of other articles.
HENRY & THOS. MOORE, Auctioneers. January 7.
To be Rented,
And possession given immediately— A two story house and garden on Duke-street, about two squares to the eastward of the stone bridge.
W. HARTSHORNE.
A number of valuable lots in different situations, to be sold—also, a brick house in King-street, in the tenure of Thomas Cruse;—a part of the purchase money will be taken in Alexandria Bank shares at par, and for some of the lots, Alexandria Insurance shares at a price to be agreed on. For part of the purchase money of either, a liberal credit may be had, 1st Month 7th.

IMPORTED Just received for the subscriber at the Court Wharf, a general assortment of Cologne stones, from Amsterdam, with hand Mill-Stones and German steel.  JESSE HOLLINGSWORTH. Baltimore, December 27. zaw6t†
The Subscribers and Members of the Mutual Insurance Company against Fire on Goods and Furniture in the state of Virginia, are hereby requested to attend in person or by proxy their annual General Meeting to be held on the second Wednesday in next January, which being the fourteenth day of the said month.  W. F. AST,  Principal Agent. Richmond, Dec. 6. (16) 4t1aw
Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria. THE stockholders in the Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria, are hereby notified, that an election will be held on Thursday the 15th day of January next, at the Court House in the said town, for the purpose of electing fifteen persons, citizens of this commonwealth, as directors of that institution.  J. B. NICKOLS, Sec'ry.
Form of power to vote by Proxy. I, or we do hereby nominate and empower to attend at the meeting of the subscribers to the Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria, on Thursday the 15th day of January next, then and there, for me and in my name, to vote for 15 directors of said Company. Given under my hand this day of N. B. The above must be subscribed before two witnesses. December 24. e09t
DANCING. Mr. L O N G E R, INFORMS his scholars in particular and the ladies and gentleman of Alexandria generally, that he has removed the place of his tuition from O'Neale and Ward's tavern, to Richard Lewis's house, corner of King and Washington-streets, formerly the Swan tavern, but at present unoccupied and as retired as can be expected. January 2. e03t†
For Sale, A stout likely negro fellow, named DANIEL, belonging to a gentleman in Fredericksburg. He is about 30 years of age, of a regular deportment, and accustomed to the business of gardening, taking care of horses, and the usual occupations of a town servant. For further particulars enquire at the office of the Alexandria Advertiser. December 30. e03t†
WILLIAM OXLEY & CO. King-street,  HAVE FOR SALE, Superfine, second and coarse broad and narrow cloths, kerseymeres, swansdowns, coatings, swankins, blankets, flannels, fancy calicoes and chintzes, black bombazets, durants, russelets, Irish linens, Barcelona and pullicat handkerchiefs, womens' and mens' cotton and worsted hose, dimities, checks, silks, threads, &c. &c. which will be sold low for cash, or bartered for flour or tobacco. Dec. 10. e01f
Fresh Raisins. Just received a few boxes of excellent Raisins, and for Sale, by  JOHN & J. TUCKER. December 24. e0
Shreve and Janney, Have for sale at their store, on Union, between Prince and Duke-streets. Castile soap in boxes 4th proof Barcelona brandy A few tierces of whiskey East and West-India sugar, coffee, &c. Hyson, suchong and bohea tea A quantity of dipt candles Writing paper assorted, in bales Wrapping do. China, assorted handsomely, in cases Soap and upper leather Men's Women's and children's shoes of different qualities Leading and other lines A few pieces of handsome furniture. All the above articles are of a good quality, and will be sold low for cash or country produce. Dec. 12. e0
FOR SALE,  Genuine Madeira Wine in pipes, hhds. and quarter casks, for approved notes, or exchanged for Tobacco or Flour.
I WILL SELL OR RENT The Store I have occupied for many years past, situated on Prince-Street, opposite Col. Hooe's. No stand in Town more eligible, or better accommodations for carrying on an extensive wholesale, wet or dry good business. The cellar perfectly dry, with a door at each end, will hold one thousand barrels of flour; 2500 barrels may be stowed on the premises without any inconvenience to the occupant. Those desirous of holding it will apply to me on Merchants' Wharf, where I shall in future do business. W'm I. HALL. December 22. d
Fresh Raisins and Currants for Sale, by  Robert B. Jamesson, Who has (as usual) a general assortment of Wines, Spirits & Groceries, viz. Jamaica and W. I. Rum, old Peach, Cogniac and Bourdeaux Brandy, Holland Geneva, Irish and Country Whiskey, a few pipes of old Bill Madeira, four do. London market do. 16 half pipes 7 year old Port, 20 quarter casks Sherry, 5 pipes Teneriffe, 4 pipes Catalonia, and a few qr. casks of Lisbon and Malaga Wines, Powder, loaf and lump Sugars, Molasses, Spanish Honey, Salt Petre, Copperas, Madder, Race and ground Ginger, Pimento, Pepper, Mace, Nutmegs, Cloves, Teas of the latest importations, Fig-Blue, Gunpowder, Patent Shot, Leiper and Hamilton's Snuff in bladders and bottles, Alum, Indigo, Pearl Barley, Starch, London brown Stout and Porter in bottles, Almonds, spinning Cotton, Hunter's Pipes in kegs, Olives, Capers and Anchovies, Chocolate, Rice, Mustard, and Spanish Segars; all of which will be sold low for Cash, Country Produce, or on a time to his punctual customers. Also, five likely, strong KENTUCKY HORSES, On a liberal Credit. December 20, 1800. d
Two active Lads, about 14 years of age, and of reputable connexions, would be taken as Apprentices at the office of the Advertiser.
Washington Tavern.  Peter Heiskell Acquaints his former customers and the public in general, that he has removed from Staunton and established an Inn in Alexandria. He has a few good SADDLE and CHAIR HORSES which he will hire. Dec. 18. 4weo
NOTICE. THE stockholders of the Bank of Alexandria, are hereby informed, that a dividend of five per cent on the capital stock of said Bank, for the half year ending this day, is declared, and will be ready to be paid to them, or their representatives on Thursday next. By order of the president and directors,  GURDEN CHAPIN, Cashier. January 5. cow4
WANTED TO HIRE, For the service of the Potomac Company for the ensuing year, to work at the Great-Falls, A number of active, able bodied NEGRO MEN, for whom liberal wages will be given. They will be well fed, clothed and lodged, humanely treated, and in cases of sickness taken good care of at the expence of the Company—Their wages will be paid quarterly, and if desirable to the owners, agents will be appointed at different places to pay at the expiration of each quarter, as may be most convenient to the parties. Further particulars may be had by application to Mr. Alexander Reid, at the Great-Falls, or to the subscriber in George-Town. By order of the President and Directors.  JOSEPH CARLETON,  Treasurer of the Potomac Company. George-Town, Dec. 29. 3ot
An extensive and well chosen Assortment of  CALICOES & CHINTSES, With a variety of other articles, this day received, and for Sale, by  JOHN HORSBURGH. J. Horsburgh respectfully informs those of his customers with whom he has running accounts, that he is under the necessity of discontinuing this practice;—therefore in future he will sell for Cash or Produce only. December 22. d
Notice is hereby given to the Stock-Holders of the Bank of Alexandria, that an Election will be held at the Court House in this town on the third Monday in January next, for the purpose of choosing nine Directors of said Bank, for the ensuing year, agreeably to charter.  GURDEN CHAPIN, Cash'r. Dec. 16. d4w
To be Hired on the 1st day of January next, at Dublin in the County of Essex, between 20 and 30 Nergroes, consisting of Men, Lads, Boys, Women, and Children. Among them are an excellent Brick-Moulder, and four others who have been employed in the Brick-Making business in Fredericksburg and Alexandria.—Mr. Thomas Irwin will have it in his power to hire the Moulder and two others (who are now in Alexandria hired to Mr. George Ceryell) privately if any one should apply.  BALDWIN M. LEE. Westmoreland, December 5. 10d†
NOTICE. Intending shortly to leave this place, it is requested of those to whom I am indebted on Mrs. Washington's or my own account, that they send their bills to Mrs. Washington or me, on or before the first day of January next, when they shall be paid—and those who are indebted to Mrs. Washington, or me, will please to make immediate payment to  JAMES ANDERSON. Mount-Vernon, Dec. 23. e06t
A Housekeeper wanted. LIBERAL wages will be given to a discreet Woman, capable of managing the affairs of my family as a Housekeeper.—A middle aged woman of a mild disposition and regular deportment will be preferred, as part of her attention will be necessary in superintending a nursery of young children.  CHARLES LEE. December 13, 1800. e06t
To Rent And immediate possession given. A convenient dwelling house and store, with necessary out-houses, &c. situated on Duke-street near Col. Hooe's wharf. A further description is thought unnecessary, as it is presumed any person wishing to rent, will view the premises—Apply to  CHARLES JAMIESON. January 1. e03t†
GEO. CLEMENTSON Has this day opened a Store adjoining his dwelling-house, at the corner of Prince and Pitt Streets, where he now has, and intends to keep, A general assortment of  GROCERIES, Which he will dispose of on moderate terms, for Cash or Produce. He has also for Sale, A few DRY GOODS, consisting of brown Hollands, 7-4 white Shirtings, Calicoes, Leather Gloves and Mitts, Threads, Writing Paper, Cutlery, Curry-Combs, Chalk-Lines, Needles, &c. and 15 kegs white Paint ground in Oil. December 22. e024t
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'y. Jan. 1. (2) eo  ANTHONY SAWYER, Hair Dresser and Perfumer, (lately from Baltimore) Royal street, between King and Prince streets, fourth door south of the Printing Office of the Times, Begs leave to inform the Ladies of Alexandria, and the country generally, that having received the newest fashion of Ladies' Wigs and Filets, he will be thankful to receive their orders for the above articles, and will warrant them equal to any manufactured on the continent. N. B. Any Lady wishing to see his Patterns, may be accommodated by sending a servant to his shop. He has for sale, every article in the Perfumery line, on the most reasonable terms. Alex. Dec. 8. d