The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1804-12-19 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER,  AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. V. WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE. NO. DCLVI. FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19th, 1804. PAID IN ADVANCE.
MESSAGE.
From the President of the United States, communicating a report of the surveyor of the public buildings, at the city of Washington, on the subject of the said buildings, and the application of the monies appropriated for them.
6th December, 1804.—Ordered to lie on the table.
To the Senate, and House of Representatives of the United States.
I communicate for the information of congress, a report of the surveyor of the public buildings at Washington, on the subject of those buildings, and the application of the monies appropriated for them.
TH: JEFFERSON. Dec. 6th, 1804.
Accompanying a message from the president of the United States, received 6th December, 1804.
To the President of the United States.
SIR, In reporting to you on the manner, in which the work on the public buildings of the United States has been conducted, during the year 1804, I cannot avoid expressing my regret, that a sensible portion of the appropriation by congress has necessarily been expended in pulling down, or repairing what was done insufficiently, previously to the year 1803.
The application of the public money, to the separate objects of the president's house, and the capitol, including the alteration, removal, erection or repair of the works, will be separately stated in the accounts of the superintendent of the city, to be rendered to the treasury. But as these accounts will not be closed, until the first of January 1805, he has furnished me with the following statement, up to the present day, of payments in the present year, out of the appropriation of 1804, and a balance of the appropriation of 1803, not expended in that year, viz.
  CAPITOL.   Including all alterations, additions and repairs, in the north wing, except fitting up representatives' chamber, 44,548 20   For fitting up representatives' chamber, 689 28   PRESIDENT'S HOUSE,, 11,928 29   Payments on account for sundry materials, an account of the particular application whereof, has not been rendered, 500   Dollars 57, 665 72 
PRESIDENT'S HOUSE.
It is well known that the President's house was inhabited before it was finished; and that it still remains in a state so far from completion, as to want many of those accommodations, which are thought indispensable in the dwelling of a private citizen. Of all the inconveniences attending the house, the greatest was the leakiness of the roof, which had indeed never been tight. The rain water which entered the building in every part, had injured the furniture exceedingly, and ruined many of the ceilings. This important defect arose from two principal causes; the very injudicious manner in which the gutters and the troughs conveying the water to the cistern were constructed; and the badness of the slating.
The gutters are of lead. The sheets were soldered together: the fall or current of the gutters was much too small: the openings in the roof through which the water passed into the troughs, were so contracted, as to be incapable of discharging the water of a moderate rain, consequently it overflowed, and found its way into the building: the troughs were of boards lined with lead, soldered at the joints, and laid with very little current, and all the lead was of bad quality and badly cast. All and each of the causes occasioned leakage in the gutters and troughs. It requires very little theory or experience, to know that, wherever solder is used in leaden gutters, leakage is inevitable. In water cisterns and pipes, solder is necessary, and the joints made with it are sound and permanent, the temperature of the water they contain not being subject to great variation. But in gutters and slates, alternately exposed to the scorching sun, and to severe frost, the use of solder is everywhere inadmissible, but peculiarly so in our climate. It is besides very expensive, and in no well constructed building, it is necessary. In the President's house five feet of additional current was
easily procured, and by that means the new gutters were laid without solder, and with proper groovings and drips.
The first part of the season was so uncommonly wet, that no very early measures could be taken, to make a thorough repair of the roof.—The attempts at temporary repair, made with a view to save the furniture and ceilings of the house, did not succeed, and tended only to prove the absolute necessity of a complete alteration of the whole system of guttering, and of providing new lead for the whole building. Such a general repair is always troublesome and difficult, and was much more expensive than it would have been to have executed the work right at first. It is now finished, and the roof is free from leaks. It will, I have no doubt, remain so.
The second cause of leakage was the slating. The quality of the slates was bad: but their size, especially towards the ridge, was more injurious than their bad quality. The upper courses, for a considerable distance down the roof, did not shew more than from two to two and an half inches in width; and a large majority of these slates, were only from one and an half to three inches in breadth. Slated roofs are always difficult to repair; but such a roof could not be repaired at all: and there were also other reasons, which rendered it necessary, at all events, to remove so heavy a covering as slate.
I am uninformed why the particular mode of construction, which renders this roof so heavy and so high, was adopted. If strength was proposed, capable of bearing a covering of slate laid in mortar, it has not been attained, for the framing has every where given way, and at the eastern end of the house, where there are no internal walls, it has failed so much, as to force out both the front and the back walls very considerably. It appeared therefore necessary, in the first place, to secure the timbers, as well as the walls, by strong ties of iron; which being fixed, both are now perfectly safe.—In the next place, it became highly proper to take off the load of slate and mortar, even had they not leaked; for they seemed to be the principal cause of the failure of the framing. In the covering which was to supply the place of the slate, lightness was the principal requisite; but safety from fire, and economy, were also necessary considerations.—Shingles and tiles were therefore out of the question, as well as lead; and the choice was confined to copper, tin, and painted sheet iron. Of these, sheet iron was by far the cheapest, and with a little attention to its painting, quite as permanent, as the two former. 100 feet superficial of slating in mortar, weighs about 15 cwt.—of sheet iron, exactly 147lb. So that the building—the roof containing 12,600 superficial feet—could be relieved of a weight of about 82 tons. These reasons induced the adoption of a sheet iron roof, which has accordingly been put on.
The repair, or rather the total renewal of the roof of the president's house, forms the principal part of the expence of this building for the season. It has however been further requisite, to make a new drain from the house, of such dimensions and construction, as to prevent it from being filled up as before, and the building from being flooded from the circumjacent grounds. The cost of this improvement, and the finishing of one of the chamber apartments in the second story, bears a small proportion to the former sum.
2. THE CAPITOL.
In my former reports to you, I stated the propriety of reconsidering the plan of the south wing of the capitol; and on the reasons given in that report, and in a letter to the chairman of the committee of the house of representatives, appointed to enquire into the subject, the plan which has been the ground work of all that has been done during the season was approved and adopted.
By the arrangements of this new design, the house of representatives will sit on the principal floor of the building, the whole of the ground floor being appropriated to the offices of the house: a situation the most contiguous which could be obtained, and far preferable, for offices, to the north wing or the attic floor.
Various causes have conspired to prevent our carrying up, this season, as large a mass of building as was expected. The first and principal of these have been, the time, labour, and expence of pulling down to the very foundation, all that had been formerly erected. Bad as the workman ship appeared before the walls were taken down, the measure of removing them entirely was still more justified, by the state in which they were found to be on their demolition. Even the materials,
with the exception of the bricks, were not of any important value to the new work. The stone was fit only to be used as common rubble, and most of the timber was in a state of decay, from the exclusion of air.
Another cause of delay in preparation, and an important one, was the late period at which the appropriation was made. The extreme wetness of the beginning of the season, and the floods which filled up some of the quarries, and retarded the working of others, afterwards operated much against the progress of the building, and threw great difficulties in our way. After the work had begun, we were again interrupted by the lock-nels which prevailed, and which at one time, threatened, by depriving us of many of our best workmen, to put a stop to the work.
Under all these inconveniences, and others arising from the nature of the building itself, the work has been carried on. The best mode of proceeding would undoubtedly have been, to have carried up the interior with the exterior walls. But the former building stood within the area of the wing. Had the external walls been suffered to remain on the level at which the work was closed at the end of the year 1803, till the inner building could be removed, and the internal wall carried up, little progress could have been made in the former, during the present season, and the stone cutters would have been idle. It was therefore thought best, to carry up all the external walls by themselves, thereby forwarding the more slow progress of the ornamental work in free-stone, and to construct them in such a manner, as to prepare for good bond with the interior work, and for the support of the vaults the pressure of which they will be required to resist. Thus has the work been raised to the level of the eaves of the attic windows externally, and by far the most tedious and expensive part of the work in free stone has been completed, excepting the cornice, and the capitals of the pilasters. Of the cornice a large portion is also wrought, and of the 30 capitals 16 are finished.
Of the interior parts of the building, all the foundations are laid, and brought up to the floor of the cellar story on the north side, and although they do not appear to view, the work done in them is very considerable. The whole south half of the cellar story is vaulted, and ready to receive the walls of the basement or office story.
Preparations to a very great extent have already been made in order to proceed vigorously with the building, as soon as the will of the national legislature shall be known to that effect, and the season will permit. All the free stone for the external walls, entablature, and balustrade is provided, and the greater part of it on the spot. For the internal colonnade, all the stone is ordered, most of it is quarried, and much of it is already brought to the building. Early in the season the public quarry on the island in Acquia creek was opened, and much useful stone quarried; and it would have been much to the advantage of the public, had the extent of the appropriation permitted us to have prosecuted this work. But it was found, that to clear out the rubbish of former workings, and to provide for the conveyance of the stone to the water side, although ultimately a measure of economy, would have made too large a deduction from the funds required to carry on the building itself, and contracts for stone with individuals were therefore preferred.
In the arrangements for erecting so large an edifice as the south wing of the capitol, and for pulling down or repairing extensive works of former construction, it was not easy, perhaps it was impossible, to proportion all the various contracts and engagements for labor and materials to the funds appropriated to their ultimate liquidation, as to keep within their limits, and at the same time to make exertions equal to the public expectation arising out of their extent.
In the present instance, the contracts which are made, and which are in the progress of their completion, will exceed in amount, what remains of the appropriation of last year. I must however at the same time observe, that the stock of materials wrought and now ought, which are now actually at the building, exceeds greatly this deficiency. Should the legislature, on view of the solid, permanent and incombustible manner in which the work has been executed, and on consideration of the evidences of fidelity to their duty, which those engaged in the labour of the work have every where exhibited, think proper to proceed with the completion of the build-
ing, of their house, it would very much contribute to the early occupation by the House of Representatives, if an appropriation exceeding 50,000 dollars were made for the next season. Such an appropriation, while it would give larger limits to the exertions which might be made, would by no means disturb that system of economy which has hitherto been pursued, but would rather conduce to the more advantageous and provident purchase of all our materials. And it is especially to be considered, that too early and extensive provision cannot be made, for those parts of the work, which must necessarily be of wood. The time is now at hand, at which further delay would be injurious and expensive, and should the sum necessary for this provision, added to the arrears which are or will become due, on outstanding contracts, be defrayed out of a future appropriation, of only 50,000 dollars; the progress of the solid parts of the building, will be materially injured, and must to a certain extent be put off to another season beyond the next.
In my letter of the 28th February, 1804, to the chairman of the committee of the House of Representatives, to whom the subject of the public buildings was referred, I presumed, that three annual appropriations of 50,000 dollars each, would be sufficient to finish the south wing of the Capitol. This estimate was given under statement of the extreme difficulty of estimating a work of this kind. One of the appropriations of 50,000 dollars has been granted, but from the detail of the statements I herein submit to you, it will appear, that the whole of it could not possibly be made applicable to the actual progress of the work on the Capitol.
Having thus endeavored correctly and minutely to report the progress of the work on the public buildings, during the past season, I now most respectfully submit to you all the views of the past, and for the future, which the facts suggest.
B. HENRY LATROBE, Surveyor of the public buildings of the U. States, at Washington.
LEGISLATURE OF NEW-HAMPSHIRE.
Friday, November 23.
GOVERNOR'S SPEECH.
His excellency the governor met the two branches of the legislature this day, and delivered the following
SPEECH:
Mr. President, and Gentlemen of the Senate, Mr. Speaker, and Gentlemen of the House of Representatives,
Assembled at this time, to which the legislature was adjourned, agreeably to your request, for the purpose of performing the public duties required by the constitution—while we gratefully acknowledge our obligations to the Supreme Governor of the world, for the exalted privileges with which our country has been favoured—may we unite our efforts, as the representatives of a free people, in devising the best means of promoting the public welfare, and for securing the individual rights and lasting happiness of our fellow citizens.
It seems to be a principle uncontested, that none but a virtuous people can long support a free government. How important then it is that the promotion of virtue should be duly regarded in the formation and execution of laws; that encouragement and support should be given to institutions calculated to inform the mind, and instruct in the moral and religious duties.
Since the last session of the legislature, I have received a letter from the Secretary of State, informing, that the amendment, proposed during the last session of Congress, to the constitution of the United States, respecting the manner of voting for President and Vice-President of the United States, has been ratified by the legislatures of three fourths of the several states. This letter will be laid before you.
I have also received a letter from his excellency the governor of the commonwealth of Massachusetts, inclosing a resolution of their legislature, proposing an amendment of the constitution of the United States, as it respects the apportionment of representatives among the several states, and confining the same to the number of free inhabitants respectively. The letter and resolution will be laid before you. The importance of the proposed amendment, and respect for the doings of a sister state, claim, and will undoubtedly have, your candid and deliberate attention. The condition of the United States was undoubtedly
formed with much deliberation, and ought not to be altered without manifest reasons therefor: yet it was wisely provided, that alterations might be made if found necessary.
Representatives and direct taxes are included in the same article in the constitution, and were to be apportioned among the states on the same principles. That part of the article, which respects direct taxes, appears to be nominal; while the proportion of representatives from some of the states is greatly increased in consequence of the large number of slaves which they hold; and the importation of slaves, which, it is said, is now publicly allowed by one or more of the states, has a tendency further to increase the inequality of representation.
The several matters unfinished at the last session, or referred to the present, will occupy your attention; and I cannot omit mentioning particularly that which respects a building for the confinement of criminals, as being highly important.
Whatever business you may think proper to lay before me will meet my ready attention. And be assured, gentlemen, that I shall esteem it a pleasure to co-operate with you in measures calculated to promote justice, and advance the general welfare.
JOHN T. GILMAN. State of New Hampshire, November 23, 1804.
ANSWER OF THE SENATE.
May it please your Excellency, Assembled at this time to perform the duties enjoined upon us by the constitution of this state, and taking into consideration the happy situation of our public affairs, we feel ourselves bound to acknowledge with gratitude the many unmerited favors and exalted privileges, which we, through the blessings of Divine Providence, enjoy, under our present free and enlightened republican governments. Be assured, Sir, our united efforts shall be exerted, in devising the best means to promote the public welfare, to protect and secure the civil and religious rights of our constituents against the arts and intrigues of designing men.
Sensible that virtuous habits are the surest preservatives of a free government, we therefore consider it our duty to encourage and support those institutions, the best calculated to inform and instruct the mind in moral and religious duties. And we regret that institutions established according to the indications of Divine Providence, for the benefit of mankind, should ever be made instrumental in attempts to subvert the only free government now existing; instead of affording encouragement to support it under our present successful experiment; or that any should attempt to weaken the energies of a free people, by declaring that our representative government cannot long exist, by invidious comparisons of it with other systems.
With pleasure and satisfaction we receive your Excellency's communication of the ratification of the Amendment to the federal constitution, in the choice of President and Vice-President of the U. States—hoping thereby to escape those dangers to which we have so recently been exposed.
That part of your Excellency's communication, relative to an amendment of one of the fundamental articles of the constitution of the United States, proposed by the legislature of Massachusetts, will be duly attended to, and the subject receive all that candor and deliberation, which respect for the doings of a sister state, & the more important consideration of preserving the union of the several states, merit. We coincide with your Excellency in the belief that the system of our general government was framed and adopted after much solemn deliberation, and that the provision made for alterations, as time and experience might point out, was wise. But the reasons for a change ought to be clear and strong, lest while endeavoring to avoid some apparent inconvenience, greater unforeseen disadvantages are produced, and by one change after another the constitution be essentially altered, and the harmony of the system destroyed.
From the history of other nations, we have no right to expect a perpetual exemption from wars. Though, under our present happy situation, direct taxation may appear nominal; yet, should we be so unfortunate as to be engaged in war, that would not be the case; for from the probable failure of other resources, direct taxation must be resorted to; and should this amendment take place, we should, from the reduction of representation in those states, to which the proposed alteration alludes, throw a

much heavier burthen on our agricultural interest, than would be imposed under the present state of that article.
Disapproving of slavery, as we do, we lament that one of our sister states has repealed their law, prohibiting the importation of slaves; yet we flatter ourselves in the contemplation, that the time is not far distant when Congress will have a constitutional right to put a stop to that inhuman traffic. And no serious evil, we presume, can accrue to us, by the increase of representation, from the importation of slaves in the short period of four years.
Convinced of the importance of having a secure place, for the confinement of convicts to labour, we shall use our utmost endeavours to progress therein, as fast as the nature of the undertaking will admit, without laying too great a burthen at once upon our constituents.
The unfinished business, of the last session, and such other matters as may now come before us, will be punctually attended to; not doubting of your Excellency's cheerful co-operation with us, in promoting justice and the general welfare.
GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA'S letter, addressed to both Houses of the General Assembly, at their December Session, 1804.
Richmond, December 3, 1804. SIR, I have the honor to lay before the general assembly, copies of such papers as have been presented to the executive, and appear to be of sufficient importance to merit legislative attention; and also a statement of such proceedings of the executive, as ought to be more immediately submitted to the consideration of the legislature. For an examination of their proceedings in general, the assembly is respectfully referred to the journals of the council and the letter book of the governor, which shall be laid before them whenever called for.
The paper No. 1, is the public notice required by law of the result of the election of electors, for choosing a President and Vice President of the United States.
No. 2, contains the resignations of Wilson C. Nicholas and A. B. Venable, as Senators of the United States—the vacancies thereby produced, have been filled according to law, by a temporary appointment of William B. Giles and Andrew Moore.
No. 3, contains a letter from colonel Monroe, which though written in November 1803, was not received till late in April.—In it will be found a meritorious tender of services, in a business of importance to the commonwealth, and some valuable political and philanthropic suggestions.
No. 4, is a notification of the secretary of state, of the adoption of an amendment to the constitution of the United States, respecting the manner of voting for President and Vice-President.
No. 5, a letter from the governor of Massachusetts, with certain resolutions of the legislature of that state, proposing an amendment of the constitution of the United States.
No. 6, contains a resolution of the general assembly of Kentucky, proposing a co-operation on the part of Virginia with that state, Pennsylvania and the state of Ohio, in opening the rapids of the river Ohio.
No. 7, is a letter from three of the commissioners who were appointed to wait on the legislature of the state of Tennessee, respecting the navigation of the North fork of Holston and Holston river, and recommending the appropriation of two hundred and fifty dollars on the part of this commonwealth, for the removal of certain obstructions to the navigation of these rivers, and enclosing an act of the assembly of Tennessee, on that subject and to the same purpose.
No. 8, a report of the commissioners appointed to ascertain the most proper course for a road from the upper navigation of James river, to the upper navigation of Kanawha river.
No. 9, an extract of a letter from the superintendent of the manufactory of arms, which by the particular advice of the council, is submitted to the consideration of the legislature, as it shews in a flying point of view, some of the disadvantages resulting from certain defects in our present system of finance, and which have for several years produced a practical embarrassment in the operations of government. A report from this ingenuous and meritorious officer, on the subject of the various objects of his attention, has been delayed on account of his long and extreme ill state of health.
No. 10, contains two representations from the Hay-market district court, respecting certain buildings, repairs, &c. necessary for the accommodation of the court and clerk, and safe keeping of prisoners.
No. 11, is a letter from the captain of the public guard, with an extract from the journals of the council of state, which are submitted to the consideration of the assembly, and are intended to shew that the executive are of opinion, that the additional services required of that faithful and active officer, deserve a fur-
ther compensation, which the council do not think themselves authorized to advance, they desiring to avoid as much as possible, the exercise of executive discretion, and an application of the contingent fund, to any purposes for which legislative provision may be made without a delay, which might be injurious to the credit of the state, or the interest of the person concerned.
The executive, properly impressed with a sense of the danger to which the interest of individuals, as well as the credit of the United States, was exposed by the frequent circulation of counterfeited bank notes, and apprehensive of the consequences which might result from an extensive and successful combination of such persons, as they were informed were engaged in that nefarious business, tho' it indispensably necessary to make use of the means which the integrity of Mr. S. Brooks, an engraver, furnished of detecting forgeries of Thomas Logwood, their powerful and active leader, and of bringing him to trial and conviction. The hazardous and meritorious services of Mr. Brooks, in the opinion of the council, called for a compensation, which justice and sound policy required should be afforded by government without delay. And as all that had been done by Mr. Brooks might have been of no effect, unless the truth of his information had been completely confirmed, as it was by the propriety and rapidity with which lieut. Underwood of the guards, performed the part which he patriotically undertook in this interesting business, by procuring a search warrant from a magistrate, in the county of Buckingham, where Logwood resided, founded on the affidavit of Mr. Brooks, and executing it in Logwood's house, after a journey on horseback of 112 miles in 12 hours, by which means according to Brooks's directions, he found and brought to the executive above fourteen thousand dollars in counterfeited notes of the banks of the United States, several eagles of the United States, and double guineas of France, with the various apparatus made use of in making the paper, striking the bank notes, and in coining the said pieces of gold coin, the executive rewarded the lieutenant and his two assistants, as will appear from the advice of the council in No. 12.
But as Logwood's trial was in the federal court for a violation of an important law of the general government, it was thought proper by the council that the United States should be charged with all the expenses incurred in the apprehension, prosecution and imprisonment of him; I have therefore expressed the wish of the council to the President of the United States, that such charges may be allowed, and have received his answer, "That the Secretary at the Treasury within whose department it is, had considered those claims of reimbursement from the treasury of the United States, and had allowed the account for a guard, and that for the transportation of logging materials would be allowed if they were necessary for conviction; but that the 3 large items in favor of Underwood, the Allens and Brooks, being gratuities for certain meritorious conduct, are not within the competence of the Executive of the United States to allow: that claims of this character must be made to Congress." The council therefore advised that I should request our Senators to have our claim brought forward in Congress, and to support their wish, with which advice I have complied and transmitted the proper vouchers to those gentlemen.
The act providing seals for the district courts has at length been executed—Some of the seals are delivered, and the others are ready to be deposited with the clerks of their respective courts.—A considerable delay in this business was occasioned by the use the executive were induced to make of Mr. Brooks their engraver, in the detection of Thomas Logwood.
The distribution of arms has progressed as well as the nature of that business would permit. No. 13 will shew how far it has proceeded.
The executive in compliance with the 5th section of the act, entitled "An act to amend the act entitled an act to amend the penal laws of this commonwealth, and for other purposes," with the inspectors of the penitentiary and attorney general, formed a board, by which the regulations for the internal government of the penitentiary, No. 14, were adopted.
As directed by a resolution of the general assembly, passed the 2d February, 1804, I lay before both houses of the legislature a statement of the expenses in carrying on the several branches of manufacture in the penitentiary; the amount of articles manufactured; the amount sold; and the articles and value of them remaining on hand, No. 15.
No. 13 contains the official statements of the revenue for the year 1803, together with an account of expenditures from 1st October, 1803, to the 1st October, 1804, and a list of balances due from sheriffs and collectors to the last mentioned period.
The report of the superintendent of the manufactory of arms shall be laid before the assembly as soon as it can be prepared for their examination.
No. 17 is a letter from the President, and a report of the President and Directors of the Dismal Swamp Canal, stating the progress that has been made in the works under their direction, the difficulties they encountered for want of more ample funds; the produce of the mills and tolls of the Canal from August 2d, 1802, to the 5th May, 1804, exclusive of the tolls at the fourth end, which were not yet ascertained by the Directors, as their collector had not made his report; and expressing their hope that the General Assembly will grant their aid towards finishing a work of such importance to the commonwealth.
The confirmation by the Court of Appeals of the decree of the Chancellor in a suit of Duncan Ross, executor of Duncan Ross, against the Commonwealth, of which I have received notice by the executor's attorney, requires an appropriation to satisfy the said decree.
A letter from our Senators in Congress shews that doubts have arisen, whether Senators appointed by the Executive to act as such until the next meeting of the Legislature, should not vacate their seats on the day appointed for that meeting, or at least on the day on which an actual meeting of both houses may happen; or, whether, as either of these constructions of the law might be, attended with great inconvenience to the Senators, and to the public, the words "until the next meeting of the Legislature," ought not to be understood to mean, until the next meeting of the Legislature should afford the means of a legislative appointment of Senators; and therefore, that the temporary Senators should hold their offices until superseded by the next legislature. These doubts are submitted to the consideration of the General Assembly, and seem to require their immediate decision on the present situation of the Senators, whose construction of the law is agreeable to that last stated.
The office of public printer having been vacated by the resignation of Meriwether Jones, it was filled by an executive appointment of Samuel Pleasants, according to the 4th section of the act directing the mode of appointing the public printer.
I am happy to have it in my power to repeat my congratulations to the present assembly which I presented to the last on the prosperous situation of the United States. And with sincerity I repeat my assurances of high respect for yourself and the other members of your house, and my wishes for your and their happiness, and the lasting prosperity of our country.
JOHN PAGE. The Honorable the Speaker of the House of Delegates.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF KENTUCKY.
Monday, November 19.
Mr. F. Grundy, from the committee to whom was referred the message of the governor, respecting the resolutions of the state of Massachusetts, made the following report, viz.
The committee to whom was referred the resolutions of Massachusetts, have taken the same under consideration, and have come to the following resolution thereupon, to wit:
Resolved, That it is with regret and unfeigned that the state of Kentucky discovers a wish on the part of the state of Massachusetts, to depart from those principles, on which the people of the United States became one people. We cannot discover that the present mode of representation, is either unjust, or injurious in its operation; and we cherish a hope, that that spirit of conciliation which actuated the framers of the federal constitution, and the several states in the adoption thereof, still pervades the union. And although at first view it might appear that the Eastern states, owing to our present political regulations, bear a greater portion of our public burthens than other states of the union; yet, when we reflect that the consumer of all imported articles, is charged by the seller with all taxes, which may have been imposed by government—we shall discover that those states where slavery is tolerated, bears at least an equal share of all taxes, arising from imports: and if this were not the case, we with joy look forward to a period, not far distant, when the western merchant, actuated by a dignified spirit of enterprize, shall vie with the eastern merchant, and commerce shall extend her sails over our western waters. This event, on which we calculate with certainty (in consequence of the late acquisition of Louisiana, and the free navigation of the river Mississippi) would equalise taxation, were it now unequal.
We consider an harmonious union of the states, as a subject of the first importance; and are of opinion, that this object is better secured under the present mode of representation, than th one contemplated by the state of Massachusetts. We have seen, we now feel the beneficial effects arising from the present constitutional mode, and are therefore unwilling to exchange it for that which
may have been dictated by disappointment.
Resolved also, That the Senators in Congress from this state be, and they are hereby instructed, and the representatives of this state in Congress, are also requested to oppose the alteration in the federal constitution proposed by the state of Massachusetts; and the governor of this state is hereby requested to transmit to each Senator and Representative in Congress from this state, and also to the Chief Magistrates of the different states, this expression of our opinion on the subject, and request their concurrence in opposing the contemplated measure.
Which being read, was ordered to lie on the table.
Legislature of Maryland.
Thursday, Dec. 6.
According to order the House took into consideration, the bill to incorporate the stockholders, of the Union Bank of Maryland, and, on the second reading thereof, the question was put that the capital stock of said bank consist of three millions of dollars? Resolved in the affirmative.
Friday the 7th, the House resumed the consideration of the bill, and the question was put that the third and fourth sections thereof be struck out—which carried. The question was then put that an amendment offered to said bill be received? Resolved also in the affirmative.
Saturday the 8th, the House again took up the consideration of the bill, when the question was put, that the words "and no director having served for three years, shall be eligible for the two succeeding years thereafter" be struck out? Which was negatived by a majority of fifteen.
Monday the 10th, the House proceeded to the reconsideration of the incorporation bill, and the question was submitted, that the words, "The whole number of shares reserved, be struck out of the 16th article? Carried in the affirmative.—The question was again put, that the words "when entitled to four directors, two directors shall be chosen by the Senate, and two by the House of delegates," in the same article, be struck out? Resolved in the affirmative.
Tuesday the 11th, the final consideration of this bill took place, and after making several amendments, the question was put, that the said bill do pass? which was carried in the affirmative, yeas 50—Nays 10.
THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA.
At a court of general sessions of the Peace, oyer and terminer, assize and general goal delivery, begun and holden at Columbia, for the district of Richland, on the third Monday after the fourth Monday in October, being the twelfth day of November, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four, and in the twenty-ninth year of the independence of the United States of America; before the honorable Elisha Hall Bay, one of the associate judges of the said state, the grand jury made the following presentments, viz.
State of South Carolina, } November term, 1804. Richland district.
We the undersigned grand jurors of the said district, offer our sentiments, in common with our fellow-citizens, against the unlawful, the odious, the depopulating, and distressing practice of duelling; and present it as a grief to all civilized countries, and more especially to ours, where each individual can so easily seek redress in the courts of justice. And we must express an additional grief and concern, that an investigation into the laws and jurisprudence of the country, upon this subject, had not taken place long before the overturn which is reputed to have given rise to it at this time, as instances equally lamentable, had often called for the intervention of legislative authority; for unless the privilege of free elections shall be secured, which is the bulwark of American liberty, perhaps no law will be found sufficiently efficient to govern the passions of candidates, whose characters are made a target for every electioneering man to shoot at; and although we do not know, nor perhaps would be able to offer a remedy that would avert these evils from the commonwealth, yet, conscious of the superior skill of those patriots who have long made government their study and care, we earnestly recommend to them, in our legislative councils, to take these subjects into consideration, and remedy (if possible) these evils, which certainly remain to mankind from Heathenish Barbarism.
We further present as a grief and burthen to the citizens of our country, the law which compels them to serve as jurors without a quid pro quo , or, at least a reasonable indemnification. We own, and are willing to own, that the public has a right to the services and property of the individuals of the community; yet we are of opinion that when such services are rendered, or property converted, there remains to each individual an equal right to demand and receive for such services and property an equivalent. We do conceive that it is neither reason-
able nor efficient to be a reason- able to the jurors of the country. First, because the duties to be performed are of the greatest magnitude. Secondly, because their minds, to be thus importantly engaged, ought to be free and easy, which cannot be the case when obliged to distress or disorganize their domestic arrangements, or be exposed to hunger and the inclemency of the weather. And thirdly, because the human mind, impressed with imperious and arbitrary law, cannot be in a proper attitude to take into consideration, and to judge of the lives, liberties and properties of men.
We further present as a grievance, the present law with respect to parol duty, the uncertainty of which has caused a great diversity of opinions respecting its meaning and extent. These difficulties would be greatly relieved by a more general diffusion of the acts of the general assembly amongst the officers, military as well as civil.
And we further present as a grievance, that the office of justice of the peace is too often filled by improper characters. CLAIBORNE CLIFTON, Foreman.
The following is a copy of the counter memorial of the inhabitants of New Orleans.
To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States.
WE, the undersigned citizens of the United States and inhabitants of New Orleans, beg leave to approach with respect your honorable body, and to express our confidence in your wisdom and virtue, in relation to the government prescribed for this territory. We wish only to state, that it has excited no discontent among the undersigned, and we shall remain as heretofore, devoted to the interest of the American union, and determined to support the laws of our country. When it shall be consistent with the general good, to give to the territory of Orleans a government founded in the representative system, we are persuaded a provision to that effect will promptly be made by Congress; but whenever Louisiana, or this part thereof, shall, (consistent with the constitution of the United States) be admitted as a state, we humbly pray, that such conditions may be annexed to the admission as will secure to the undersigned, (whose native language is English) the use of their mother tongue in the legislative and judicial authorities. And we also pray such further conditions may be annexed, as will secure to all the citizens of the U. States, who shall become inhabitants of such new state, the same privileges and benefits as other citizens of said state shall possess.
[Signed by about two hundred and forty citizens in four days, representing at least one half of the commercial interest of the place.]
WASHINGTON CITY.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19.
In our last paper we stated the arrival of Mr. MERRY in this city. This was an error which arose from the following circumstance. On Saturday a servant delivered an anonymous note, stating that Mr. Merry had returned to the city, and requesting that his paper might, instead of being forwarded to Philadelphia, be left at his house in Washington.
The friends of a wide diffusion of knowledge, through proper seminaries, and of a vigorous system of internal improvements, have not been disappointed in their expectations that these great objects would be promoted, under republican auspices, with augmented zeal. The spirit, which has long reigned in the breasts of a small number of citizens, is rapidly passing from one part of the country to another, and exciting an honorable rivalry between the different members of the union. Among the instances that attest the expanding views of our countrymen, we notice with pleasure the introduction into the legislature of North Carolina of a bill to empower commissioners to contract for the opening and establishing a turnpike road, to pass through part of the territory belonging to the Cherokee Indians, and of another bill to incorporate two companies for the purpose of cutting a navigable canal from the Roanoke to the Meherrin river, and from Bennett's Creek in North Carolina to Nansemond river in Virginia.
While we gratify an honest pride in attesting the liberal policy that is about to give birth to these important improvements, we cannot refrain from expressing the humiliation we feel, at the treatment which the University of North Carolina has received from those who should consider themselves its best friends and guardians. With the examples of the magnificent support of education set by the neighboring states of South Carolina and Georgia, it was hoped that the councils of North Carolina would, by a regular patronage, however limited, have fostered the only great seminary within her limits. Her University was founded many years since. The existing resources of the state not being extensive the endowment was small. In order to

increase it the Legislature, at a subsequent period, granted the institution the proceeds arising from forfeited and confiscated property. About the time this fund began to grow productive, the Legislature repealed the law granting it, and diverted the University of this resource.
The friends of the University have, with a perseverance that does them honor, at every subsequent session endeavored to abrogate the repealing law, and restore the fund arising from forfeited and confiscated property. For three successive years the attempt has failed. Renewed again at the present session, it has shared the same fate; by a majority, however, so small, as to animate, rather than repress zeal. The majority in a body of one hundred and twenty-five is but six. The North Carolina State Gazette gives us the commencement of the debate on the repealing bill. Among those who most strenuously advocated it, we find Mr. Maurice Moore, a pupil of the University; the peculiar relation in which he stood will, we are persuaded, give an additional interest to his remarks, and justify our inserting them at full length, without any apology.
Mr. MAURICE MOORE — It has been four years since the Legislature passed the bill taking from the University, the forfeited property, which by a former Act was vested in it.
A bill for the repeal of this Act has regularly every session since appeared upon your table; and has as regularly been rejected.
It is with the utmost deference and respect for the opinion and upright intentions of our predecessors, that I propose to the House the reconsideration of it. A Legislative body is like an individual, subject to its infirmities; it is agitated by the ebb & flow of the passions, and may be hurried into error, from misapprehension or ill-judged zeal.
It was a knowledge of this which made the wise, the cautious framers of our constitution unfold a door for retraction and unite in us the power to enact and to repeal.
But for this, the grant of the University, if a burthen, would still have oppressed us, and its repeal, if an error, could only now be looked at with impotent regret. Surely there never was a time at which this power of repeal could have been more properly exercised, than at the present; or a fitter opportunity have offered itself for the display of our patriotism, than that which the warm support of the present bill affords, the object of which is the destruction of ignorance and the extension of learning to all classes of society. I am not one of those who are ready to heap epithets on all who differ from me in opinion, or to attribute the opposition which this institution has met with, to minds poisoned by ignorance or inimical to learning. Far from it. I am confident, that the friends and enemies of the University unite at least in one point, and that the sole distinction between them is in the different views they take of the same object. It is impossible it should be otherwise; for this House cannot furnish an instance of a single individual, who has not either felt the advantages of learning, or has regretted the want of it. The causes, though diametrically opposite, are productive of the same effect; they tend in the same striking manner to evince inestimable worth, and to draw from every patriotic breast the warmest and most anxious wishes for its general dissemination. It was science which took man by the hand in his dark and dreary state of nature, which taught him to leave the precarious chase, the hollow tree or hut of bark, for the comforts of civilized life: which taught him to trace with wonder and delight, the movement of those heavenly bodies which had so often disturbed his nights, and chilled his soul with terror; and sublimated his mind, to view in the works of nature, with reverence and awe, the omnipotent hand of an all-creating Providence. Consolidated in one opinion as to the usefulness of science, and united in our wishes for its general diffusion, the point of separation is the means which shall be adopted for carrying our views into effect.
A diversity of opinion is inseparable from the human character, and as it has pleased the great Disposer of all things so to have ordered it, we are fortunate in his having, at the same time, furnished us with capacity to discern, virtue to pursue the course which reason has pointed out, however adverse to our wishes. On this I found my hopes, I address a deliberate body, ready to retract its errors, and speak in a cause supported by reason and justice.
I shall consider this subject in two points of view. First, with respect to the policy of passing the act at Fayetteville granting to the University the forfeited property. Secondly, the right of the legislature to repeal their grant of property made to this corporate body called the Trustees of the University.
I presume I may assert without contradiction, that the improvement of the human mind is promoted by proper education. That in all countries the public as well as individuals have been benefited by such improvement. And
that it is the duty of the Legislature to promote the public good according to its means.
Without dwelling upon the advantages the State derives from having circulated in it the monies employed in the education of its youth. Learning is itself of too much importance, it too deeply engages the affections and duties of parents, to be left upon a tottering or insufficient basis, the means, of procuring it should always be certain.
From the frequent attempts which have been made in various parts of the State to establish Academies, their imbecility are too clearly evinced to be farther trusted. Salisbury, Warrenton, Hillsborough, Pittsborough, and Fayetteville have each had its Academy to boast of—they have each invited the youth of the country to enter their portals, and have held forth to them the prospect of instruction; they have each flourished for a day, on the first effusions of generosity, and exhibited the most flattering prospect of answering the end of their creation. What now are they? The shadows of substances which have long since faded away, but lasting monuments of the firmly founded on which such hopes have been reared; the reason is obvious, the attainment of learning like the attainment of everything else valuable, is attended with expenses—expenses far too great to be met by any neighbourhood in the present state of our country. The legislature which established the University, were apprized of this. They felt the advantages of learning, and saw the necessity of placing the measure of its attainment upon a proper foundation. Without this, all equality ceases—the poor unable to bear the expenses of foreign education for their children, are obliged to breed them up in ignorance at home; while the rich, but little embarrassed by its procuring instruction for their's. But Mr. Speaker, we will suppose for an instant that Academies could be so established as to give them permanency, still the private advantages of a few individuals is not the business which we are convened to adjust. Our business is the advancement of the State at large. The establishment therefore of schools where the smaller branches of science can alone be acquired, ought not to be taken into view—our attention should be drawn to the support of such a seminary as will furnish means for the most perfect cultivation of the mind. The knowledge of reading, writing, arithmetic, though of the greatest importance to the individual is of but little moment to the state; with this stock a man may do his own business, but the management of public affairs requires an extent of information which private schools and Academies have never yet offered. If therefore the human mind is improved by proper education—if the public as well as individuals is benefited by such improvement; and if it is the duty of the legislature to promote the public good, it surely was politic in the legislature to pass the act they did at Fayetteville in favor of the University.
We now will consider the right we have to repeal the grant of property made to the corporate body called the Trustees of the University.
The people in forming a system of government for themselves, after throwing off the British yoke, could only establish the fundamental principles; these they have made sacred by declaring them their constitution. From this constitution the legislature derives its authority, and cannot, conformably with the nature of government legally pass any laws inconsistent with, or in direct opposition to the constitution. If the legislature can disregard or annul any one clause of it, they have the right to make void the whole: regulated governments must of course be at an end, and anarchy ensue; we must again return to that primitive state of nature where the weak and timorous become footstools to the strong and courageous.—But Sir, if we have not this power, if we are bound to act in obedience to the constitution, one section of it is as much to be attended to as another, and it becomes our duty to carry the whole of it into effect. The people well apprised of the inestimable worth of learning have solemnly stipulated for it in their constitution, and pointed out the manner in which they would receive it, by declaring that there shall be one or more universities in the state.—As their representatives, as the guardians of their rights, it becomes our duty to see those rights carried into effect, and of consequence to afford the necessary means of support to an institution which has been so peculiarly their care.
The legislature which sat at Fayetteville, in '89, and which in obedience to the constitution, established the University, constituted the Trustees a body politic. A grant made to such a body is in law considered as sacred as one made to an individual, therefore when the legislature vested in the Trustees the forfeited property, they had all the right, title and interest in it, that an individual could have had under such a grant. I presume this House will seriously reflect upon the consequences before it assumes to itself the power to take from individuals their estates, unless forfeited to the state in due course of law, the
result of consequence would be, that if the legislature have not constitutionally the power to take to themselves the estate of individuals, they cannot have the right to take from this corporate body, which, by law is placed upon the same footing with an individual, the forfeited property which the act of '89 vested in them.
A grateful sense, Sir, of the improvements which my slender faculties have received from this much revered Seminary—my pride as a native of the state, and the love I bear my country, have combined in calling forth from me the observations I have made—I have to lament that a bill to re-enact with good has not met with an able advocate, but I doubt not that the determination of the house will evince that a bill calculated to contribute so much to the equal distribution of science among all classes of people requires but little support.
Mr. Moore was followed by Mr. J. G. Wright, from whose speech we offer the following extracts:
"It is generally admitted to be good policy in all governments, to promote education by every possible means; and more especially has it been thought good policy in Republican Governments. Popular opinion is the foundation of Republican Government. In the same proportion, therefore, that you enlighten that opinion, will you attach your citizens to it, by teaching them to support and revere the principles on which it is established. It is by education alone that our citizens can become independent and enlightened Legislators, upright and able Judges, great and eloquent Lawyers, pure and learned expounders of the Gospel. It is by enlightening our Youth that these benefits are to be secured. A measure of this kind ought to meet in every Member of this General Assembly, a friend, and not a foe.
No member will rise in this house and say, we will not encourage Education, or enlighten the minds of posterity. But they will say, and it has heretofore been said, that this is not the proper way of promoting Education: but that schools ought to be established in every county. No member, said Mr. W. would more cordially join them than I would in promoting such schools. But how is this to be effected? Schools of this description cannot be established, unless proper persons can be found qualified to teach them. Is it not of importance, for the purpose of raising such characters as may at a future day preside over these schools, that our University be supported? At present, we are obliged to procure our teachers, either from some of the Northern states, or from Europe. It would certainly be far better to have these characters raised within our own state, who would be possessed of our own habits and customs, than to have them prejudiced in favor of habits and customs inconsistent with our principles of Government. Those members, therefore, who are advocates for Country Schools, ought also to be advocates for the present bill in favor of the University.
Mr. W. had hoped, that though this measure had heretofore been unpopular, that the Legislature observing, as the people generally, he trusted, must have observed, the great benefits resulting to the country from the University, a majority would now be in favor of it. He had seen young men come amongst us from this institution, and enter the different walks of life. Some of them had become members of this legislature: and the character and conduct of these young men have had a tendency to give popularity to the Institution, and men without the limits of this house, who were formerly opposed to it, are now fond of it. And it needed no prophetic spirit to tell, that, one day, it will not only become the darling of the Legislature, but the pride and ornament of our country."
DIED, At Fort Stoddert, the 20th October, Ephraim Kirby, late of Litchfield, (Con.) first judge of the United States district court at New Orleans.
Departed this life on Tuesday the 11th inst. Charles Augustus Stephenson, in the 9th year of his age.—Of this youth too much cannot be said, he was in every respect amiable and endearing; all who saw him loved him, all who knew him admired a genius which excelled his years; his sufferings were long and painful, which he bore as a philosopher. Sleep on sweet dust, fulfil thy master's will, Then rise unchang'd, and be an Angel still.
The Electors of South Carolina, the whole number of ten being present, have given an unanimous vote for Thomas Jefferson as President, and George Clinton as Vice President.
Senators. The legislature have re-elected for six years from next March Thomas Sumter, whose politics have never varied; and John Gaillard, who, a respectable correspondent informs us, is a decided republican, in the room of Pierce Butler, resigned.
Vermont election for a representative in Congress.
   Elliot, rep. Richards, rep. Fletcher, fed.     Battlesboro' 125 5 2   Westminster, 85 89 1   211 94 3  
Upwards of 150 federalists did not vote. Majority for Elliot in these towns 114. The majority against him at the former trial was 27.
Congressional Register.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 17.
The amendment proposed to the bill by the Senate concerning drawbacks on goods, wares, and merchandise, exported from the district of Orleans, was ordered to lie on the table.
Mr. Gregg presented the petition of Hannah Crawford of Pennsylvania, praying relief in consideration of the loss of her husband who was killed in an action with the Indians whilst a colonel in the Virginia line during our revolutionary war.
Referred to the committee of claims.
A petition was presented by Catharine Havis of Baltimore county in Maryland, praying that compensation may be made for the services of her late husband whilst a soldier in the regiment of Royal Americans commanded by colonel Bouquet, in the years 1760 and 1761.
Referred to the committee of claims.
A petition was presented from the inhabitants of Amelia county, state of Virginia, praying that a post office may be established at the county court-house. Referred to the committee on post offices and post roads.
The House resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill for establishing rules and articles for the government of the armies of the United States.
Mr. J. C. SMITH in the Chair. After going through the same the committee rose and reported the bill with amendments, the same were taken up in the house and agreed to, and the bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Friday next.
The House resumed the consideration of the amendment reported from the committee of the whole on the bill to regulate the clearance of armed merchant vessels. Some further amendments being made the bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading on Monday next, and in the mean time it was ordered to be printed.
On motion of Mr. Lattimore a committee was appointed to consider what alteration if any was necessary to the Act regulating the grants of land & providing for the disposal of lands of the United States South of Tennessee; and authorized to report by bill or otherwise.
On the motion of Mr. J. Lay a committee of five were appointed to consider the petitions from Alexandria, Washington City and Georgetown, on the subject of erecting a permanent bridge across the Potomac.
On motion of Mr. Thompson the message of the President relating to the public buildings in Washington was referred to a committee of seven. And then the House adjourned.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 18, 1804.
An engrossed bill, respecting the clearance of armed merchant vessels, was read the third time; and on motion recommitted to a select committee.
The bill authorizing the Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria, to extend their insurances to buildings, was read the second time, and ordered to be engrossed for a third reading to-morrow.
The forensic eloquence and patriotism of Mr. Erskine, have long been the boast of England. His talents have excited the admiration, and his independence the esteem of all ranks and parties, and a Mr. Cant, of Licester, lately deceased, has left him no less a sum than 23,000l. (nearly a hundred thousand dollars) for his animated and noble defence of Horne Tooke, the great disciple of liberty in that country, in the year 1794. Enquirer.
The electors of Tennessee, viz. David Dadebeck, George Ridley, William Martin, Robert Houston, and Richard Mitchell, met at Knoxville on the 5th inst. and gave an unanimous vote for Thomas Jefferson as President, and George Clinton, Vice-President.
Columbia, December 5. The legislature of this state yesterday proceeded to the election of Electors of President and Vice-President of the U.
States, when the following gentlemen were elected: John Blake, Thomas Taylor, Joseph Calhoun, William Hill, James Mills, John G. Ward, Joseph Byth, Arthur Sinkins, Samuel Warren, Major John Taylor. All of whom will vote for Thomas Jefferson and George Clinton.
The legislature of this state yesterday proceeded to the election of two Senators in the Congress of the United States, from this state; one in the room of Mr. Pierce Butler, resigned, and one in the room of Mr. Thomas Sumter, whose present term of service will expire in March next; when Mr. John Gaillard was elected in the place of Mr. Pierce Butler, and Mr. Thomas Sumter was re-elected.
At the last session of our legislature a law passed the assembly subjecting the ministers of religion to taxation like other citizens; and another for new organizing the militia: Both these acts were referred by the council to the next session of the legislature. A turnpike road from Rutland to Pittsfield was granted; most of the other petitions for turnpikes failed.—A tax of one cent and an half on the dollar was voted to defray the expenses of government. It was thought necessary to increase the tax, as there was not money enough in the treasury to pay the debentures of the members of the legislature; a deficiency of about 5000 dollars having been occasioned by the expense of the extra session at Windsor, in February last. [Rut. Her. Vermont.]
PUBLIC MEETING.
HAVING received communications from the Town and County of Alexandria, which relate to the affairs of the DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, it becomes proper on my part to solicit a meeting of the inhabitants of Washington to take the said communications into consideration.—A meeting for that purpose is accordingly requested to be held at the THEATRE on Saturday the 22nd inst. at 10 o'clock in the forenoon. ROBERT BRENT, Mayor of Washington. December 19—21
District of Columbia, Washington county, to wit:
ON the petition of WALTER QUEEN an insolvent debtor confined in the prison of Washington county for debt. Notice is hereby given to the creditors of the said Walter Queen, that on Monday the 24th day of this month, at 10 o'clock, A. M. at the court room in the Capitol, the oath of an insolvent debtor will be administered to the said Walter Queen agreeably to an act of Congress now in force respecting insolvent debtors within the district of Columbia, and a trustee appointed unless sufficient cause is then and there shown to the contrary. Provided this notice be published twice in the Washington Federalist, and twice in the National Intelligencer before that day. By order of the hon. Wm. Cranch, esq. one of the assistant judges of the circuit court of the district of Columbia. Test URIAH FORREST, Clk. Dec. 19—21
Five Dollars Reward. STOLEN or taken on the 26th of October, from the subscriber, out of Mr. Goldsborough's lot—a BAY COLT, about two years old last spring, 11 or 12 hands high, had all around—Whoever will deliver the said colt to the subscriber near the President's house, shall receive Five dollars reward. ROBERT SUTTON, Washington December 19—31
LOST, ON Friday morning last, between the Tyber and Mr. Rhodes hotel, a small Red Morocco POCKET BOOK, containing a note of 100 dollars of the Union bank of Maryland—the note was wrapped up in a small memorandum, for the person who lost it to get the following articles, one bushel and half of salt, one ounce of bark, one vial of tincture, and two brooms. The note has such marks, as renders it if offered at Bank easily proved. The finder shall be handsomely rewarded, if he will leave the pocket book with its contents with the printer of this advertisement, or at Mr. Hamilton's on Capitol Hill. December 19—31
NOTICE. A MEETING of the FIRE COMPANY of the third ward will be held this evening at 7 o'clock at Mr. William R. King's tavern near the Navy Yard—the punctual attendance of the members is requested. CHARLES G. HERFORD, Sec. Dec. 19—21
RICHARD & LYNDE ELLIOTT, HAVE just received from Connecticut Six Thousand weight of GOSHEN CHEESE of the first quality, a final part of which is off last year's making, which they offer for sale, by the 100 weight, at the Baltimore and Alexandria prices. They have also just received, and now landing at the Country Wharf, QUINCES, Cyder, Potatoes, Apples, Onions, Cabbage, and sundry other articles, which they offer for sale at the Alexandria prices. Georgetown, Dec. 19—w31

CHARLES H. VARDEN, MERCHANT TAYLOR. Has received from Philadelphia a handsome assortment of FALL goods, consisting of the best London and French superfine cloths, cassimeres, patent Beanet's cord, toiletries, fancy and white Marceilles, black and figured silk, mouselins, fancy silk, Marceilles, constitution cords, velvets, Genoa cord, silk and satin Florentines, superfine routing, knapped cloths, with a variety of other articles suitable for the winter season. N. B. Ladies habits, regimentals and navy uniforms made in the first stile of fashion. New Jersey Avenue near the Capitol, December 10—tf
ADAM KING, & Co. At their wine store in High Street George Town, have in addition to their stock of old wines, laid in a large and general assortment of all kinds of Liquors and Groceries suitable to the present season; where bills of any description, in their line, will constantly be filled up on the shortest notice and they flatter themselves, from the quality of their wines, &c. they will be able to give general satisfaction to all those who may think proper to favor them with a call—where all kind of commission business as usual, will be attended to with the utmost attention, George Town, November 5—tf
FALL GOODS. THOMAS CARPENTER, TAYLOR, Pennsylvania Avenue, near the President's Square, Has just received a very handsome assortment of Fall Goods. Orders executed with the greatest dispatch and fashion, and on the most moderate terms. Oct 31—tf
ROBERT CHERRY. Has removed his store, to the house of Mr. George Blagden New Jersey Avenue on the Eastern Branch, where he has just received (in addition to his former stock) by the Schooner Flyland from Philadelphia a general assortment of groceries and liquors of superior quality, with a few boxes India china of the best quality eighty pieces to the set; all of which he will sell wholesale and retail at the most reduced prices for cash, or in exchange for country produce—All orders in his line will be executed with punctuality and dispatch; he flatters himself from the quality of his articles he will be able to render ample satisfaction to his friends and all those who may be pleased to favor him with their custom. All kinds of commission business will be attended to with the utmost attention. Washington City Dec 12—tf
Wanted to rent or purchase a large and convenient HOUSE, with 100 or 150 acres of Land, in an healthy situation—the neighborhood of Baltimore, Elk Ridge or toward the vicinity of the city of Washington will be preferred. Letters addressed to the subscriber, particularly mentioning the improvements, &c. &c. shall be immediately attended to. GEORGE RALPH, Charlotte Hall, St. Mary's county, November 30—
Ship timber, Plank, &c. WAN ED at the NAVY YARD, Washington, a quantity of the undermentioned materials, for which the fair market prices at New York, Philadelphia, or Baltimore, will be paid on delivery, viz.
 THICK STUFF and plank of white oak and heart yellow pine of 12 to 14 inches in breadth, 30 feet long and upwards, viz. 9 inch thick 5 inch thick  3 1 2 do. 4 1 2 do. do.  8 do. 4 do. do.  7 1 2 do. 3 1 2 do. do.  7 do. 3 do. do.  6 1 2 do. 2 1 2 do. do.  6 do. 2 do. do.  5 1 2 do. 1 1 2 do. do. 
Log of white oak, and heart yellow pine, from 12 to 16 inches square, and 16 to 30 feet long, Do. of 16 to 18 inches square, and 30 to 40 feet long, the prices will be greater, Do. of larger sizes and lengths, fill more so. Timbers of live oak, cedar and locusts, all sizes, Crooked logs, and pieces of white oak, walnut and chestnut, Knees do. do. Locust trenails, all sizes, Ash logs, and oak rafters, Handspikes and capstern bars of hickory and ash, various sizes, Spruce pine spars, Do. lower yards, Do. half do. Do. topmasts. Also, loger and pipe staves and heading, of white oak. Any person desirous of supplying a quantity, and wishing to ascertain the prices, previous to delivery, will be furnished therewith on application to the subscriber, and describing the particulars THOMAS TINGEY, Superintendent, Navy Yard, Washington. Nov. 23—tf
ALEX. MCCORMICK. A nit store on East Capitol Street four doors from the Capitol square, has received and offers for sale a general assortment of liquors and groceries which he will sell low and warrant of as good a quality as any sold in the district of Columbia—He has 20 pieces fine Irish Linen, with sundry other articles in the dry good and hardware line. November 12—tf
TO RENT, On very moderate terms, four two story brick dwelling houses ON north H Street, square No 77, directly south of the Six Buildings. For terms apply to T. H. GILLISS At the Navy Office Washington City, Nov. 2d, 1804—M&F
FOR SALE. The following City Lots, ON A LIBERAL TIME, Upon SECURITY, viz. LOTS—3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, in square No. 919.—Lots 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, & 16, in sq. No. 938. Lots 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 13, 14, 15, & 16, in sq. No. 986. Lots 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 & 19, in square No. 1042. Lots 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 & 13, in square No. 1066. Apply to CHARLES MINIFIE, Washington City, or to RICHARD C. JONES, at Philadelphia. Washington, August 3—tf. N.B. C. M. has sundry other lots for sale or ground rent (on easy terms to improvers,) and in eligible situations.
Plaster of Paris. A consignment of Plaster of Paris from New York, is daily expected by the subscribers, who will dispose of it upon advantageous terms. It is ground and in barrels of 4 and 4 1 2 bushels each. Orders for the whole or any part thereof will be received at their store in front of their distillery on Pennsylvania Avenue, near the Centre market. They will also give the highest price for rye, corn, oats and other country produce. HERFORD & SON. Dec. 12—3t
NOTICE. THE Legionary Court of enquiry of the 1st Legion of Militia of the District of Columbia which convened at Rodes's tavern city of Washington, the 20th inst. is adjourned to the 20th inst. to meet at the same place at 10 o'clock in the morning of the 20th inst. Thursday. All persons concerned are hereby notified to attend. By order of the court, WM. D. BEALL, Ck. Dec. 14—3t
THE subscriber has for sale at the Navy Yard—Six Hds very particular TE. NERIFFE WINE, and one hhd. OLD ANTIGUA SPIRITS which he will sell low for cash or approved discount paper, 60 days. BULLER COCKE. December 14—4t
PUBLIC SALE. WILL be held at public sale, on Saturday the 23d of December inst. at the Union Tavern, George Town, the following property, to wit, one moiety of 42 Acres of Land situate on Rock Creek—bounded on the North and East by Mr. Holmead; on the South by Mr. Rowles; and on the west by Rock Creek; the other moiety was lately held by the trustees of Mr. Contee. Also, 15 and a half acres higher up the creek, bounded on the north by Mr. Pearce, on the east and south by Mr. Holmead, and on the west by Rock Creek. Also, one moiety of the mill usually called Lingan's mill situate on Rock Creek, a little below Rowles mill. And all 10 Potomac Bridge shares. A credit of 12 months will be given, upon the purchasers giving bond with good security—The sale to commence at 12 o'clock, meridian. EKIAS B. CALDWELL, Trustee of Guikavus Scott's estate. Dec. 15—epf.
This day is published, THE AMERICAN GARDENER, Containing ample directions for working a Kitchen Garden every month in the year, and copious instructions for the cultivation of Flower Gardens, Vine Yards, Nurseries, Hop Yards, Green Houses, and Hot Houses By JOHN GARDENER & DAVID HEPBURN, Late gardener to Governor Mercer, and John Mason, Esq. This work is the result of 40 years experience, and is particularly adapted to the middle states of the union—Price ONE DOLLAR TWENTY FIVE CENTS. —Copy right secured according to law. Subscribers will be furnished with their copies by J. Gardner, or Mrs. Hepburn, who are disposed to sell the remainder of the impression and copy right to a Bookseller. Dec 14—3t
THE subscribers have opened a GROCERY STORE in the house near the Capitol, lately occupied by Mr. JAMES D. BARRY —where they have for sale, low, for cash or in exchange for country produce. Genuine Cogniac brandy, Inferior French do. Old Jamaica spirits, Madeira, } Wines, by the quarter cask and case, or smaller quantity. Sherry, } Lisbon, } Claret, } Brown Sugar, 1st and 2d quality, Loaf and Lump, do. Molasses, Firkin Butter, Mould Candles, Sweet Oil, Spices of different kinds, Fig Blue, Starch, Almonds; Anchovies, } In bottles. Capers, } Powder and Shot, Excellent Wine Vinegar, Gin, Whiskey, Hylon, } Teas, fresh, and of superior quality. Imperial, } Young Hylon, } Salt Herrings in Barrels. PETER HEALY, & Co. Washington October 31—tf
Deneale's. PATENT THRESHING MACHINE. THE subscriber having invented a machine (for which he has obtained a patent) for threshing all kinds of grain, particularly wheat and those kinds of grain most difficult to be separated from straw, flax or chaff, takes the liberty of recommending the same to his fellow citizens as worthy their attention. The subscriber is well aware that the public attention has often been solicited to inventions for threshing wheat, and it has been lamented that those inventions have often fallen short of the desired effect, but from the actual experiment which has been made on the one now offered to the public, the Inventor is emboldened to recommend it in terms of confidence and a well grounded expectation of its becoming of great profit and utility both to the farmer and manufacturer. This machine is constructed upon entire new principles, its operation is by flails, encircled by a cylinder, moved by friction wheels, and can with ease be regulated so that no straw shall pass off before the grain is entirely threshed out of it. It is worked by two horses, and so geared that their speed will not exceed the rate of three miles per hour and the draught moderate; nor does it require more than two persons to attend it. The straw is discharged at one part and the wheat at another, perfectly screened and fanned ready for market: the shrivelled wheat, cockles, &c. are deposited by themselves and the chaff also, so that no mixture takes place. This machine will thresh at the rate of, from fifteen to twenty bushels per hour, is not subject, if properly built, to get out of repair, and if kept under cover will last many years. The wheat prepared for market by this machine is worth to the manufacturer considerably more than that got out in the usual mode of threshing, and the cost of the machine will not exceed from one hundred and fifty to two hundred dollars. The subscriber will grant permits to use his threshing machine and furnish a drawing or written description by which it can be executed for fifty dollars each, or any person can view the one he has erected at his mills near Dumfries, Virginia, so as to enable them to erect one from it. The subjoined certificates being from gentlemen whose good understanding and steady habits entitle them to respect, and some of whom being persons of scientific knowledge, he hopes will be sufficient to recommend his machine to public use: he will also contract for the privilege of using his machine in any particular state. Letters post paid directed to him at Dumfries, Virginia, will be duly attended to. JAMES DENEALE, Jun. Dumfries, Dec. 3, 1804.
Dumfries, 30 Oct. 1804. WE, the underwritten, inhabitants of the town of Dumfries and its vicinity, having frequently attended experiments made with a machine, invented by Mr. James Deneale, of the Quantico Mills, near this place, for the purpose of threshing out wheat, have no hesitation in giving our united testimony in support of the usefulness which will result to the community from this excellent invention As Mr. Deneale is about to apply to the proper authority for a patent when the construction will be generally diffused, we deem it unnecessary to add more on the subject. Jno Macrae, David Boyle, James Read, Bernard Gailager, Hector Alexander, William Smith, Jno. Gibson, William Farrow, George Smith, Joseph Gilbert, Alex Henderson, Thomas Chapman, Luke Cannon, A. Sowden.
Oceanquan, 30th Oct. 1804. BEING called on by James Deneale, of Dumfries, in the state of Virginia, to view a Threshing Machine of his invention, and executed by himself, for which he is about to obtain a patent, I waited on him, but went with prejudice against all threshing machines heretofore invented, having never seen or heard of one that answered a good purpose, and hardly thought it likely that this should be much superior to those which had preceded it; but contrary to my expectation, it did its work perfectly, leaving not a grain of wheat in the head, nor even any chaff on the grain, it made no difference whether the wheat (in the straw) was put into the machine in a straight or in a tangled state, it delivered the straw well, and did not appear difficult to manage, nor so complicated as to be hard to keep in repair: it threshed, while I stood by, nine dozen sheaves of wheat, (such as two dozen in common seasons would have made a bushel) in sixteen minutes, so that I have no doubt it will thresh fifteen to eighteen bushels an hour with two horses to draw it, and two hands to attend it with much ease to the hands and horses with the assistance of a common Dutch fan placed under the machine, which would be turned with and by the machine, the wheat might be rendered nearly fit for market, with only the expense of two hands and two horses working at leisure at the rate abovementioned of fifteen to eighteen bushels an hour, clear from all dirt or filth of any kind. And as most Millers would find it their interest to give 3d to 6d per bushel more for wheat got out in this way than that got out in the ridiculous mode of threshing with horses on the dirt; I can with confidence, and on the principle of doing to others as I should wish others to do to me recommend this machine to all considerable farmers as worthy their most serious attention and adoption. Seeing the farmers generally in this state do not get for their wheat within 6d. to 1s. per bushel of what the northern farmers get at market, I attribute the cause to the difference in management only. N. ELLICOTT. December 7.—2t—3t
Runaway Negro WAS Committed to the jail of Frederick county, on the 22nd of September last, negro ELIJAH, who says he is about 22 years old, very black; a bold, impudent fellow, 4 feet 10 inches high, has three suits of clothes, and says that he belongs to one James Fishback, living in Culpeper county, state of Virginia If his owner does not release him, he will be sold for his jail fees agreeably to law. GEORGE CREAGER, Sheriff of Frederick County. Oct. 28—1aw3t
NEW STORE, SEVEN BUILDINGS, CITY OF WASHINGTON. THE Subscriber, who lately opened store at the west corner of the Seven Buildings, has just received by captain Elwood, from Philadelphia, an extensive assortment of dry goods, amongst which are a variety of fancy articles, viz. London superfine and second cloths, cassimeres, nappas, coatings, forest cloths, bockings, London hats, flannels, bays, blankets, counterpanes, dimities, stuffs and durants, London belt letter paper, common writing do. sealing wax, wafers, quills, pencils & paste board, fancy waistcoating, linens, Irish and German, Russia sheeting, dia. per, bed ticking, velvets, cords and thick-fetts, patent bennets cord, Barcelona handkerchiefs, bandannoes, one bale coarse mullin, checks, Shirting mullin, best Spanish segars, chandeliers, goblets, decanters and salt cellars. Piano fortes, violens, violen strings, music, fresh hylon tea, &c. The subscriber has imported his London superfine cloth, hats and part of his other woollens himself and can therefore sell them unusually low by wholesale and retail. THOMAS W. PAIRO. Nov. 9—3t&wtf
BOARDING HOUSE. THE Subscriber has taken the upper part of that commodious house, in which Mr. E. RIGGS keeps store, a few doors above the UNION TAVERN, where a few gentlemen may be accommodated with boarding. JANE WHITE.
TO LETT And immediate possession given—A two story FRAME HOUSE, four rooms on a floor, with a brick kitchen, and a large garden, nearly opposite Mr. Lairds, enquire as above. Georgetown, December 5—taw4w
E. OLIVER, HAS REMOVED TO THE HOUSE IN BRIDGE STREET, Lately occupied by Mr. PAIRO, and opposite Messrs. Dyer and Smith's Where she respectfully informs the Ladies of Georgetown and Washington, that she has just received, and will open on Monday next, a very large and elegant assortment of MILLINERY & FANCY ARTICLES, all of the very newest fashion, and immediately from on board the ships Pique and Active, just arrived at Philadelphia from London. CONSISTING OF SUPERB lace and other shawls, Do. head handkerchiefs, Do. damask table do. Black and white lace veils, Black lace flades, Black and white lace edgings, Real gold spangles, Do. gold thread, Gold and silver cords and tassels, Elegant silk cords & tassels of all sorts & colors Do. cotton do. do. Real lace gloves, Do. pic nic do. English extra long silk do. Do. do. do white kid, Ladies Beaver and Venetian gloves, Ribbons of the newest fashion and of every description, Feathers, flowers, artificial wreaths and bunches, a very beautiful assortment, Do. straw wreaths and bunches. Ladies and gentlemen's white and colored silk flockings, Do. white cotton do. Fleecy hosiery gloves, Woodstock, beaver, fawn skin and raw silk gloves, Murray's shoes, Gold, silver, beaded, cheniel, and bugled trimmings for ladies dresses, New fashioned gold and silver bandeaux and sprays, very beautiful, Satin for dresses, mantuas, velvets, plush gauzes, modes, farcenets, linens & dimities Dress fans—silk and Madras bandana and dress handkerchiefs, Silk elastic garters and suspenders, Tortoise shell combs for ladies and gentlemen, Muffs and tippets—Fur for trimming, Straw, chip, and Leghorn bonnets and trimmings—Litiz bennets—Furniture, fringe and tassels—Beads, bugles and spangles—Netting cotton—Hair powder and pomatum, Velum, Prussian binding and narrow lace for officers—Sword knots—Gold and silver embroidered button holes. English Jockey caps for boys and children, Gentlemen's silk and cotton suspenders and neck pacs. With a great variety of other articles. Georgetown, Dec 4—2aw3w
M. JONES, LATE OF PHILADELPHIA. RESPECTFULLY informs the Ladies of Washington, Georgetown and their vicinities that she has removed her fine goods and MILLINERY store to Bridge Street, opposite Jefferson Street Georgetown, and is now exposing for sale (at Philadelphia prices) the following articles—Fine thread laces and edgings, patent do. and cloaks, white and black lace veils, lace and pic nic gloves, fine silk-velvets of every fashionable color, rich surfacts, white and black soft Mantuas, chequer'd and damask silk shawls, cambric muslin and camels hair do neck and shoulder comforts, fancy handkerchiefs, ribbons of every description, a large collection of cotton, bead and silk trimmings, mull mull, colomade, lace and cambric muslins, elegant lineau, do. and shawls, linen cambrics, chinizes and corsets, a large assortment of habit, extra and common length gloves, flowers and feathers, gold and silver ornaments, fans &c. &c. Also velvet, split straw, and duntable millinery, with a variety of other fancy goods. Georgetown, November 14—tawtf
500 Dollars Reward. WHEREAS on the 8th day of April last a Negro fellow named STRETHER and his wife named PHILLIS absconded from my plantation near Chester court house South Carolina—and as I have reason to suspect that some waite person or persons have been accessary in said negroes elopement, or has feloniously carried them away—I hereby offer the above reward upon conviction of any white person concealing or carrying away said negroes. Forty dollars with all reasonable expences will be paid for lodging said negroes in any jail and giving notice by letter to me at Chester C. H. South Carolina, so that I may get them, or twenty dollars for each; that is, if they are taken by any person after this date—any jail or other persons giving notice to me of said negroes, that they are lodged in any jail before this date shall be very handsomely rewarded. STRETHER is 22 or 23 years of age, little yellow complexioned, 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high, stout made, crooked legged, very large feet, has a four countenance, has large scars on his back occasioned by a severe whipping, by his former overseer in Virginia for rebelling against him. PHILLIS is 20 or 22 years old of a middle size, trim made, black complexion, has a small lip when she speaks—Said negroes formerly belonged to Mr. Edward Carter, in Prince William county, state of Virginia, where it is supposed (if they have eloped of their own free will) they will try to go. Any letters of information will be very thankfully received JOHN JOHNSTON. Chester C. H. South Carolina, July 11—1awtf
The subscriber having been legally authorized, by Messrs Henry Pratt Thomas Willing Francis, John Miller, John Johnston, and Jacob Baker, trustees of a fund created from the joint and separate estates of Robert Morris, John Nicholson and James Greenleaf, and generally denominated the "Aggregate Fund," hereby calls on all persons, having any claims or pretensions by Mortgage or otherwise, to any of the objects of the said Fund, to make the same known to him, or to their respective adjusters. And all persons disposed to purchase any of the property of the said Fund either in cash, or on terms of short credit, are desired to make early application to JAMES GREENLEAF.
THE subscriber, being legally and fully authorized, by his assignees, to adjust, and settle finally, all the concerns of his former estate, surrendered under the laws of Pennsylvania, of Maryland, and of the United States, hereby calls on all persons indebted to said estate, to make payment to him; and on all who have claims, to render him their accounts, with notice of what property is still held in pledge for securing payment. JAMES GREENLEAF. Philadelphia, April 13—wtf Philadelphia April 13—wtf The property of the AGGREGATE FUND lying in or near the river Potomac, consists of a large number of house lots in the city of Washington. A number of handsome brick houses and a few wooden houses in do. A wharf and store on do. Lands on the Eastern Branch, opposite do. Do. on Hunting Creek near Alexandria. Do. adjoining Fort Cumberland. Do. about 12 miles from do. The subscriber will in person receive applications on any of the objects of his agency, at Mr. Stelley's hotel, until the 20th inst. after which until farther notice, he requests that all applications may be made to capt. Thomas Tingey, William Cranch, esq. or Mr. Samuel Elliot, jun. JAMES GREENLEAF. Washington, June 4—3t twtf
FALL AND WINTER GOODS. JOHN COX, GEORGE-TOWN.
HAS received a large and general assortment of Fall and Winter Goods, which he will sell on the very best terms. Among which are carpets and carpeting, negro cottons, kerseys and plains, rose and striped blankets, superfine, second and coarse cloth, and cassimeres, patent Bennets cord, thick-fetts, velvets and fancy cords, coatings, flushing baizes, flannel and bockings, swan down and mouselin waistcoating, gentlemen's fine fur and silk mouselin hats, common fur and coarse wool do. children's do. men's and women's silk, cotton, worsted and yarn hose, muffs and tippets, gentlemen and ladies neck and shoulder comforts, book, jacquet, cambric and lace mullin, white and colored embossed cambric, do. fur and mullin shawls and handkerchiefs, fur and mouselin do. elegant laces and edgings, silver, silk, and cotton trimmings, silver frogs and shoe roses, American manufactured bed ticken, bed lace, Irish lines and sheeting, Ozenburghs, Tecklenburghs, brown hempen and rolls, mahogany dressing cases with silk cushions, do. dressing glasses, tea trays and Morocco decenter stands, ladies pic nic, silk, cotton, doe skin, kid and beaver gloves and muffs, men's beaver, cotton and fulled gloves, Leghorn flutes and bonnets, white and black feathers and sprays—crapes pealongs, satins, laces, intangos and farcenets, Marceilles and cotton counterpanes, elegant fans, with almost every other article of fancy and substantial goods. October 1—tawtf
NEW Store. BY WHOLESAL AND RETAIL. The subscriber informs the public that he has commenced business in the house formerly occupied by MR. QUINN, F. Street; And has on hand, a general assortment of dry goods, Groceries, wines and spirituous liquors. Porter, Hardware and Cutlery, Queenware, China and Glass, Flour, Corn, and Corn-meal, Oats, and Chopped rye, Cards, and Soap by the box, Country whiskey by the barrel, and a few casks of genuine old Irish whiskey, All of which he will sell low for cash or cash or produce. The HIGHEST prices, given for country produce, CASH. FRANCIS CLARK. Aug. 29—wtf