The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1807-11-30 00:00:00

National Intelligencer.
WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VIII.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
NO. 1112.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM,
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 1807.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
(BY AUTHORITY.)
An act making further appropriations for the support of the Navy of the United States, during the year one thousand eight hundred and seven.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That for defraying the expenses of the navy of the United States, during the year one thousand eight hundred and seven, the following sums, in addition to the sums heretofore appropriated for that object, be, and the same are hereby respectively appropriated; That is to say:
For the pay and subsistence of the officers, and pay of the seamen, seven thousand four hundred and fifty-four dollars and twenty-nine cents:
For provisions, thirty-one thousand, four hundred and sixty-eight dollars and fifteen cents:
For repairs of vessels, one hundred and forty-two thousand, eight hundred and eighty-four dollars and fifty-one cents:
For pay and subsistence of the marine corps, eighteen thousand, five hundred dollars:
For clothing for the same, ten thousand, one hundred and thirty-nine dollars, and forty-two cents:
For medicines and hospital stores, one thousand, two hundred and sixty-three dollars and forty cents:
For ordnance and military stores, three hundred and ten thousand, five hundred and fifty-four dollars, and sixty cents:
For timber for the navy, eighty-seven thousand, five hundred dollars:
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the several sums herein specifically appropriated, shall be paid out of any monies in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. NOVEMBER 24, 1807.
APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER.
Philadelphia, Nov. 22d, 1807 TO THE EDITOR OF THE NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER.
Sir, You have requested from me a description of the South wing of the Capitol, and especially of the new Hall of the House of Representatives for insertion in your paper. I would rather that you should have obtained such a description from any other source; not only because I want the leisure to write a description, which would be intelligible to the generality of your readers; but because the terms in which you have been pleased to mention the building on the opening of Congress, render it perhaps indecent in me, to furnish the description, which you promise as the future appendage of your encomium. However as you express so strong a desire to give to the public a general idea of the edifice, I will rather furnish you a description avowedly my own, than be suspected of having had any share in the panegyric which might be substituted for it, in case of my refusal.
The design of the Capitol of the United States at Washington, as presented by Dr. Wm. Thornton, and accepted by General Washington under the law, placing at his option both the plan of the city and of the public buildings, consisted of a central building, and two wings. The whole front from north to south extends 355 feet in length. The width of the wings is 121 6; but the center projected westward beyond the wings, so that its depth, including the Portico, would have been near 200 feet.
The original design, however, in its progress underwent some alterations, most of which were improvements. The foundation of the whole building was laid in 1792; as well of both wings as of the center, and the North wing was so far completed in 1800, that it could be occupied by both Houses of Congress on the removal of the seat of government to the city. About the same time the Elliptical area of the House of Representatives in the South wing was carried up 20 feet in height, and a roof put over it. This room, of which no part was intended
to be permanent but the walls and floor, was occupied by the House in the years 1802, 1803 and 1804.
By the original design the North wing was intended to contain the Senate chamber, its offices and committee rooms, the committee rooms and the clerk's office of the House of Representatives and the library; the South wing was to be wholly occupied by the Hall of Representatives, its lobbies and its galleries. The center of the building was to consist of two large circular rooms, the first giving to the whole edifice a Vestibule of 110 feet diameter, the other being appropriated to the conferences of the two Houses of Congress. Between the center and the wings, two recesses were to contain Vestibules and staircases, and two very large rooms unappropriated to any special use.
The external elevation which has been executed, with a few alterations in the wings, exhibits a building of three stories. The lower story of 20 feet in height, consists of alternate windows and massy rustic piers, over which a continued impost (or entablature) is carried uninterruptedly round the whole building. Upon this story is raised the principal order of Corinthian wall pilasters 30 feet in height, standing upon square blocks or pedestals 3 feet high, and supporting an entablature of 7 ft. 4 in. high. The roof is concealed by a blocking and balustrade 6.8 in. height, making the whole apparent height of the work above the lower floor 67 feet. The two upper stories are comprised within the height of the pilasters. The windows of the lower story have plain architraves, but those of the second are fully enriched with architraves, entablatures and pediments. The upper story has square attic windows.
From this external elevation it is evident that the principal apartments would be expected be on the second story, to which the lower story with its rustic decoration appears as the base and support. But the internal arrangement as intended by the original design, and as executed in the North wing contradicts this expectation, for the halls of legislation were to be on the ground floor, as well as the grand vestibule, and to extend into and through the upper stories.
To render this arrangement reconcileable to propriety, the same idea was adopted on which the late House of Commons in Dublin was constructed, a room often considered as one of the most beautiful in Europe: the ground story was occupied by an arcade, supporting an order of columns, in the second story behind which the galleries were placed. In the Senate chamber this construction produces an extremely striking coup d'oeil, and universal approbation has been bestowed upon this room, the scenic effect of which conceals the defects of its design.
I have thought it necessary to go thus far in explaining the original intention, in justice to the claims of Dr. Thornton, who, it must be confessed, has, in his design exhibited talents which a regular professional education, and a practical knowledge of architecture would have ripened into no common degree of excellence. And although it would neither be consistent with my opinion, nor with the total alteration of his plan in those parts of the building which have been executed under my direction, if I were to express general approbation of his design—I should do great injustice to his merit, were I to withhold from him the praise due to a very considerable proficiency in an art, so complicated and difficult, that very few among those who have devoted their lives to its study and practice have attained permanent eminence by their works. It is also due to myself to point out how different the original intention was, from the actual execution of the work; for many of those defects, and indeed the most important, which remain, have grown out of the difficulty of adapting a new interior arrangement, to an exterior which could not possibly be altered from that of the North wing. Under these circumstances I could not aspire to a higher praise than that of having overcome difficulties: for there is no part of the work which might not have been improved, had the exterior permitted it.
Nor ought I on this occasion to withhold the praise due to Mr. Geo. Hatfield, architect, who for some time conducted the work at the Capitol in
the city. His exquisite taste appears in many parts of the exterior of the North wing, particularly in the introduction of the impost entablature which crowns the basement story, and gives an harmonious character to the whole mass, which it could not otherwise have possessed.
The original plan of the South wing underwent the alterations which will be described principally for the purpose of attaching to the Hall of Representatives itself all its committee rooms and offices, and of avoiding the inconvenience of having them at the distance of near 200 feet in the North wing. The wish, however, of preserving the character of the room proposed by the original design, has produced the general features of the hall itself. For though its whole detail and arrangement have been changed, it still retains the colonnade originally intended, with this difference, that the first design proposed an elliptical colonnade of 36 equidistant columns standing upon an elliptical arcade in the lower story, and the present hall has a colonnade of 24 columns arranged in a different manner, and the arcade is entirely omitted. The present room is also about 20 feet less in height than that first designed.
The south wing of the Capitol, which I have now particularly to describe, is entirely appropriated to the use of the House of Representatives. The basement story contains the offices of the House, and the two upper stories the Hall of Representatives. Every part of the building is solidly constructed. The exterior walls are of free stone, lined with masonry of granite. All the apartments are vaulted in hard bricks, and scarcely any thing in the whole building is of timber, excepting the doors, windows and their dressings, the platforms of the House and galleries, and the roof of the Hall itself. On the ground floor are five committee rooms, and an apartment fitted up for the use of the President of the U. S. when he, as usual, comes to the House to sign bills, near the close of every session. On the east and west front, a spacious antichamber is calculated to accommodate those citizens who have business with the committees. On the south front is the Clerk's office, containing the principal office, two rooms for the engrossing clerks, and six vaults for the deposit of records. In the centre of this floor are two large rooms to contain fuel, in each of which is a furnace by which the Hall of Representatives above is warmed. The water closets occupy the most retired part of the story. At the east and west ends of the south front are the doors of the gallery. These doors lead into lobbies or anti-rooms, and in the angles themselves are the gallery stairs, which are of freestone.
If there is any degree of merit in the building, it is, I think, in the arrangements of this story; which experience has already proved to be well adapted to the convenience of legislative business, and to afford, on the limited scale to which the extent of the wing confined me, every species of apartment which was wanted. The great difficulty was to contrive the plan, so that the massive columns of the legislative hall above should be solidly supported, and yet not occasion obstruction in the lower apartments, to arrange the fire places so that the chimneys should not interfere with the open area of the Hall extending over the whole plan of the wing, to light all the apartments by the few windows, the places of which were exactly determined by those of the north wing, so that every room should be perfectly symmetrical, and to light all the interior parts of the floor, sufficiently for the use assigned to them. If all this has been accomplished, and no room has been wasted in useless passages, I am satisfied, let the opinion of critics as to the rest of the House be as it will.
The Legislative Hall occupies the whole area of the wing within the walls, excepting the angles being a parallelogram of 110 feet by 86 feet. The angles of this area are cut off, so as to reduce it to a species of oblong octagon. The two angles on the south are occupied by the gallery stairs, those on the north, by a committee room, and the door-keeper's office. Within the walls of the room, at about 10 feet distance from them, is the base wall that supports the colonnade. It consists of two semi-cir-
cles, 60 feet in diameter at the east and west ends, united by straight lines, 25 feet in length, on the north and south, so that the internal space within this wall is nearly 85 by 60. The wall itself is 7 feet in height and the top is nearly level with the soles of the principal windows. The area within this wall and colonnade is allotted to the seats of the members, the space between the colonnade and the external walls is, on the north, the lobby, and on the south the gallery. The floor of the upper seats of the gallery is level with the top of the wall, and they descend in three rows so as to give to all the seats a very good view of every member in the House.
The straight part of the wall N, and S. projects 1 ft. 3 within the area, and forms a centre piece from which each semi-circle proceeds. The entrance is through the centre of the north wall. On the circular parts of the base wall is placed the colonnade of 20 columns, ten on each side, terminated at each junction with the centre piece by an ante (Pilaster) in the Grecian style; and in the space between these pilasters are two columns on each side, making the whole number of columns 24. They are of the Corinthian order, of solid and beautiful freestone, 26 ft. 8 in. high & two feet eight inches in diameter at the lower end of the shaft. They are fluted, but only two of the capitals are completely finished, namely—those immediately opposite to the entrance. The rest are in different states of forwardness. These capitals as well as all the architectural decorations, were executed by Mr. Andrei, an artist of first rate excellence.
The entablature is of solid stone, 6 feet in height, and a blocking course of 16 inches completes the order up to the springing of the dome. The frieze opposite to the entrance is occupied by a colossal eagle in the act of rising, with wings spread for flight. The wings extend from tip to tip, 12 ft. 6 in. The head rises to the corona of the cornice. This immense bird is carved in three very large stones; the block of the body reaches through the entablature. It is the work of Mr. Franzoni, and though at present roughly finished, is a most excellent piece of sculpture. The head especially is equal to any thing of the kind I have ever seen, and has besides the merit of being a scrupulously correct copy of the head of the bald eagle peculiar to our country. The opposite frieze is ornamented by four figures rather larger than life, being personifications of agriculture, art, science, and commerce, from the hand of the same artist. The three former of these figures are finished, and are exquisitely beautiful. They are carved in alto relievo in the solid stone of the frieze.
Between the two columns opposite to the entrance, behind the Speaker's Chair, sits on a pedestal a colossal figure of liberty. The present figure is only a plaster model hastily executed in three weeks by Mr. Franzoni, but has great merit. It is proposed to place a marble figure of the same size in its room, and the marble of Middlebury, in Vermont, appears as excellent for this purpose as the best Italian marble. The figure, sitting, is 8 ft. 6 in. in height. By her side stands the American eagle, supporting her left hand, in which is the cap of liberty, her right presents a scroll, the constitution of the United States. Her foot treads upon a reversed crown as a footstool and upon other emblems of monarchy and bondage.
The Speaker's chair is placed on the south side of the area facing the north in front of this figure, which is seen entirely above it. The seats of the members rise on stages parallel to the walls of the area, and look southward. Behind the seats is a lane which surrounds them, and immediately under the wall are commodious seats for the Senators and other official characters, when visiting the House. No other persons can be admitted within this area, but very commodious galleries adjoin to the lobbies, for persons introduced by members.
The space between the columns and the external wall is covered with a solid brick vault, but the internal area has a roof of timber, which forms a flat dome, rising 12 ft. 6 in. in height. This enormous roof is in thickness only 16 inches and is a very remarkable
specimen of excellent carpenters work. It is constructed on the plan of Philibert de Pormy, and is pierced with square lights, five over each intercolumniation. There are 20 tiers or ribs of these lights, in all 100. Each is covered with a single square of plate glass, and the effect is very striking, especially to those who have not seen the Hallabled or Corn market in Paris, which was lighted on the same principle. This mode of lighting the Hall, forbade the construction of a solid brick dome over the whole building, but every thing is so prepared that it may at any time be solidly domed.
To give an adequate idea of a building by a description accompanied by drawings, is always a vain attempt, and no one who has not seen the Hall of Congress can, from what I have said, understand exactly the effect and appearance of the room. But it will be easily imagined that so many, such large and such richly ornamented columns regularly ranged, so much sculpture, and such a mass of light regularly distributed must produce the effect of great magnificence. This is increased by the taste and richness of the furniture, which is the work of Mr. Ray of Philadelphia. The curtains are of crimson silk lined with green. One large ample curtain is suspended in the space between the columns opposite the entrance, and being drawn in easy folds to each pilaster, discloses the statue of Liberty. The effect of this curtain of the statue and of the Speaker's chair and canopy, as it is the first, so it is perhaps the most pleasing assemblage of objects that catch the eye in the whole room. Adjoining to the room is also a large committee room, used by the committee of Ways and Means.
On the north side of the body of the wing is the lower entrance, the upper and lower vestibules, and the staircase. This part of the building is entirely original, and excepting in the disposition of the staircase, which, had it been possible, would have been better placed on the opposite side of the entrance, contains the greatest variety of scenery in the building, every part of which, however, is indispensably necessary to the communication of the different apartments with each other. On entering, the eye catches at once, the first vaulted vestibule, opening by a lofty arch into the staircase; beyond the staircase, the octagon vestibule of the offices, with its octagonal vaulted ceiling above, the fluted dome of the stairs, supported by 8 columns in pairs between the angle piers, and through the intercolumniations, the hemispherical dome of the vestibule of the Hall of Representatives, enriched with circular pannels and roses. All this scenery is lighted by the lanterns of the two domes.
Yours with respect. B. HENRY LATROBE, Surveyor of the public buildings of the U. S. at Washington.
[Mr. Latrobe's communication is extended to a much greater length by a vindication of the public work done in the city from the charge of waste and extravagance, and of the hall from the censure cast upon it on the score of hearing. Several blanks occurring which require to be filled up with sums which we have not the means of obtaining, the publication of this part of the communication is deferred until Mr. Latrobe, now in Philadelphia, shall be heard from.]
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25.
Mr. Paindexter presented the petition of the President and Trustees of the Natchez Hospital, praying assistance from Congress. Referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. Thomas Moore presented the petition of J. Eliot. Referred to the committee on Claims barred, Sec.
Mr. Mumford presented the petition of Joseph Du Cuyler, praying that the importation of certain coloring matters for a new combination of which he had purchased the patent, be prohibited. Referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. Paindexter presented the memorial of the mayor, aldermen and citizens of the city of Natchez, praying for a grant of lots on which to erect public buildings. Referred to the committee on Public Lands.

An engrossed bill authorizing the purchase of certain copies of the journals of Congress was passed. Ayes 73.
Mr. Talmadge offered the following resolutions:
Resolved, That the Secretary for the Department of War be directed to lay before this House a statement of the respective numbers of officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers, composing the army of the U. S. noting the numbers wanting to complete the present establishment.
Resolved, That the Secretary for the Department of War be directed to lay before this House a statement of the respective numbers of volunteers, either of artillery, cavalry, or infantry, whose services have been offered and accepted, in pursuance of the act entitled, "An act authorizing the President of the U. S. to accept the service of a number of volunteer companies, not exceeding 30,000 men."
Which being read. Mr. Talmadge said, that it would be remembered when the President had transmitted his message to Congress at the opening of the session, one part of it related to what might be the probable situation of the country, and to the necessity that might exist for raising a regular army. Mr. T. presumed that every gentleman on the floor felt the same sentiment with respect to the importance of the preservation of the honor of the nation, and in order that they might be prepared to meet any possible event, it became essentially necessary to know what was our actual force. This was the object of the first resolution which he had proposed. He wished to know not only what that force was, but how far it was deficient. Another reason which operated strongly on his mind was that the House never failed at each session to vote money for the support of the army and navy of the U. States; they certainly could not make the exact appropriations required, without knowing what the actual force of the army was.
With respect to the second resolution. It would be remembered that an act was passed in February, 1807, authorizing the President to accept of the services of any number of volunteers, not exceeding 30,000, which act was to remain in force for two years. It became important to know how far volunteer companies had offered, and how far this force might be brought into the field in case of emergency. An act had also passed in April, 1805, authorizing the President to call out 100,000 militia, to continue in force two years from its date, and would of course expire next April. These were the different species of force on which the President could calculate on an emergency. That the House might know the exact force of the union, and how far it might be relied on were the reasons which induced him to move those resolutions at this time.
A desultory conversation took place as to the ability of the Executive to give the information called for in the second resolution, in which Messrs. Talmadge, Thomas, Dana, Quincy, Chandler, Durell, Alston, Upham, & Smilie took part, when the resolutions were agreed to without a division.
An engrossed bill for the incorporation of a Baptist church in the city of Washington was passed, 63 to 25.
On motion of Mr. Poindexter, the House went into a committee of the whole on the bill to extend the right of suffrage in the Mississippi territory, and for other purposes. Mr. Masters in the chair.
Mr. Troup withdrew his motion for striking out the first section of the bill, with a view to give the gentleman from the Mississippi territory an opportunity of making the bill less objectionable, and for that reason solely.
Mr. Poindexter, to accord with the wishes of the representation from Georgia moved an amendment which limited the right of suffrage to freeholders and holders of land by equitable titles; which was agreed to without a division.
Mr. Bibb moved that the following provision be inserted in the bill:
Provided, That this act shall not take effect till the assent of the state of Georgia shall have been signified thereto.
Which motion was negatived, 68 to 15.
The bill being gone through, the committee rose and reported it.
Mr. Bibb wished the proviso he had moved in committee of the whole to be now added to the bill.
The Speaker said the House must first decide upon the amendment made in committee.
Mr. Poindexter said that as the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Bibb) had declared an intention to oppose the bill in toto, if its proviso were not agreed to, he should now be opposed to the amendment which he himself had proposed, and which had been adopted in committee, as it had been
offered with a sole view to the accommodation of the gentlemen from Georgia; and as even after this compromise, they were still determined to oppose the bill. He therefore wished it now be decided on in its original shape, which was most agreeable to the wishes of his constituents.
The question being taken by yeas and nays on concurrence with the amendment of the committee of the whole, there were Ayes 79, Nays 41.
On each of the foregoing questions some debate arose, in which Messrs. Poindexter, Quincy, Bacon, Sloan, Smilie, Cook, Rhea (T.) Lyon, and Holland generally supported the right of Congress to legislate on the subject without the consent of Georgia, and advocated the political expediency of extending the right of suffrage as originally contemplated by the bill, so that every free white male inhabitant, who had paid taxes 6 months, and been a resident in the territory 12 months previous to the election, should be entitled to vote for representatives in the legislature.
Messrs. Bibb, Troup, Gardenier, Gardner, and Rowan generally denied the right of Congress to legislate on the subject in violation of the compact entered into with Georgia at the time of her cession of the territory, intimated that the territory would soon become a state, when she could fix the qualifications of her own voters; and added that, in the mean time, there was abundant evidence of her elections being properly conducted from the talents and respectability of her representatives.
The House adjourned without taking a question on Mr. Bibb's proviso.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26. Mr. Lewis, from the committee to whom was re-committed the bill for erecting a bridge over the river Potomac, reported the bill with amendments; the most material of which makes the shares of the stock personal instead of real property, and gives to the U. S. the right of becoming purchasers of the bridge after a certain time. The bill was referred to a committee of the whole to-morrow.
Mr. Lloyd presented a memorial praying that the monument in honor of the officers who fell in the attack of Tripoli, imported from Europe by their brother officers, be admitted free of duty. Referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. J. Clay presented the memorial of W. Davy, R. Ralston, A. McCall, and A. M. Buckley, a committee appointed at a meeting of the merchants of Philadelphia, to take into consideration the cases of sundry merchants who could not obtain drawbacks from a misapprehension of the laws on the subject.
The House adjourned before the memorial was disposed of.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27. Mr. J. Clay presented a memorial from sundry merchants in the city of Philadelphia, praying for the repeal of the non-importation law. Mr. Clay moved to refer it to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures; on this motion of reference a long debate ensued, the commencement of which may be found in this day's paper. The motion for reference was finally rejected by yeas and nays, 80 to 50, and no order taken on the memorial.
Mr. Randolph, from the committee appointed for the purpose, reported a bill to explain an act passed last session, entitled "An act to prohibit the importation of Slaves into any port or place within the jurisdiction of the U. States, from and after the first day of January, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and eight;"
Which was read twice & referred to a committee of the whole on Monday next.
Mr. J. Clay obtained leave of absence for the remainder of the session.
Mr. Blount moved for the order of the day on the second report of the committee of aggressions; he wished the House to go into committee of the whole on the subject and remain in committee (as it was then late) no longer than to give the business priority over any other on the next day of meeting.
Mr. Randolph enquired why the second report should have preference over the first, and why both had not been referred to the same committee of the whole, as one depended on the other. Why were they shuffled about in this manner? Why was the cart to be put before the horse? Why was the second brought upon the tapis and the first reserved?
Mr. Blount stated that the first was merely declaratory of the nature of the act, and detailed that information which had been so loudly called for from some parts of the House; the second contained resolutions for preparing for defence, which he conceived should be first acted upon.
Mr. Randolph moved that the com-
mittee of the whole to whom the second report or second part of the report was referred, should be discharged from the consideration of it, that it might be referred to the same committee to whom the first part had been referred.
Mr. Blount's motion being that under consideration, a considerable debate ensued, which branched widely into the subject; in the course of
Mr. Blount stated that the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Randolph) had desired Mr. B. to let him know when the report was to be called up. He had told the gentleman this morning that he intended to call it up to-day. If the gentleman had then expressed a desire that both reports should be referred to the same committee of the whole, he would have accommodated him, by making a motion to that effect.
Mr. Randolph said he would take the gentleman from N. C. at his word, and withdraw the motion he had offered, trusting to the gentleman to renew it.
Mr. Blount withdrew his motion for immediately taking up the second report and renewed Mr. Randolph's motion; on which the debate was continued. The gentlemen who took part in the debate on this subject were Messrs. Randolph, Blount, Chandler, Dana, Eppes, Thomas, Rowan, Nicholas, W. Alston, Lyon, Quincy, G. W. Campbell, Burwell, Taylor, and Smilie.
The question being on the motion as renewed by Mr. Blount, was negatived, 67 to 40.
Mr. Eppes moved that the order of the day on the 1st report of the committee of Aggressions be postponed till this day week. Carried; ayes 58, nays 47.
A motion was made that when the House adjourned, it should adjourn till Monday. Carried, 61 to 43.
Mr. Blount then renewed his original motion, that the House should now go into a committee of the whole on the second report of the committee of Aggressions.
Mr. D. R. Williams said that it wanted but 5 minutes of 5 o'clock, and he hoped the House would adjourn. Carried, 54 to 44.
WASHINGTON CITY. MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30.
When the Senate was about convening on Friday, Mr. Smith, of Ohio, entered their chamber. Having exhibited a record from the circuit court of Virginia, attesting that a nolle prosequi had been entered on the indictments for treason and misdemeanor against him, and expressed a purpose to take his seat, it was intimated to him by Dr. Mitchill, that it was the opinion of some members of the body that an enquiry ought previously to be made with respect to his implication in any transactions hostile to the peace of the union. This induced him to waive taking his seat that day, to allow any measures to be taken which the Senate might see fit.
When the Senate had formed, Mr. Maclay offered the following resolution:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire and report to the Senate their opinion whether John Smith, a Senator from the state of Ohio, ought not to be expelled from the Senate in consequence of the part which he took in the conspiracy of Aaron Burr against the peace and prosperity of the U. S. or what other steps in their opinion it may be necessary and proper under the present circumstances for the Senate to adopt.
Mr. Pore moved to amend this resolution; to make way for which amendment Mr. Maclay withdrew his resolution.
Mr. Thruston moved the following resolution as an amendment, omitting that part in Italics , which Dr. Jones moved as an amendment to the amendment:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire whether it be compatible with the honor and privileges of this House, that John Smith, a Senator from the state of Ohio, against whom bills of indictment were found at the circuit court of Virginia, held at Richmond in August last, for treason and misdemeanor, should be permitted any longer to have a seat therein, and that the committee do enquire into all the facts regarding the conduct of Mr. Smith, as an alleged associate of Aaron Burr, and report the same to the Senate.
In this stage of the business we entered the Senate chamber.
Mr. Hillhouse objected to the resolution on the ground of allowing the committee too wide a latitude.
Mr. Adams vindicated the resolution from this objection.
Mr. Pore moved an adjournment to allow further time for reflecting on the most correct course to be pursued.
Mr. Tancaron advocated the powers given by the resolution to the committee; and in reply to some observations, previously made, remarked that a very different species of testimony from that required by a court of law, would constitute sufficient ground for the Senate to act on in a case where the effect might be the expulsion of a member.
The motion to adjourn was lost; only four members rising in favor of it.
Mr. Hillhouse replied to the observations of Mr. Thruston, on the score of testimony. He viewed those observations as extremely dangerous. Should they be carried into effect, the character of a man, however innocent, might be blasted. He thought the case called for great circumspection. He wished the enquiry to be made, and had prepared a resolution, which he read as follows, as expressive of his opinion of the most proper course:
Resolved, That the message of the President of the U. S. of November 23d, 1807, together with the documents which accompanied the same, be referred to a committee to enquire how far John Smith, a member of this Senate, has been connected with or concerned in the transactions therein referred to, and report whether any & what proceedings ought to be had by this Senate in relation to said John Smith, and to send for persons, papers and records.
Mr. Tiffin rose merely to state that he had seen attested copies of the record in the case of Mr. Smith, and to communicate to the Senate the contents of a letter which he had just received from him. The letter follows:
Washington, Nov. 27, 1807. Dear Sir,
Just having heard that a motion is pending in the Senate to appoint a committee to enquire into certain charges exhibited against me at Richmond, by the late Grand Jury, I beg you, sir, to assure the Senate, in my name, that nothing will afford me more pleasure than to have a public investigation of the said charges, & an opportunity to vindicate my innocence, and I beg you from your seat to make this statement.
I am, dear sir, respectfully yours, &c. JOHN SMITH. Hon. Mr. Tiffin.
Mr. S. Smith said, that however unpleasant it might be, it was the duty of the Senate to meet the proposed enquiry. It did not follow that such an investigation would go to exonerate Mr. Smith. It might, on the contrary, issue in his exculpation. He understood that that gentlemen had expressed his conviction that a full investigation would completely exonerate him from the charges which had been preferred against him. Be this as it might, Mr. S. thought there were circumstances which had been disclosed at Richmond, which called upon the Senate to go into the enquiry. He alluded to the testimony of Blamerhasset's gardener and Lieut. Jackson. He had, however, heard that Mr. S. thought it in his power to do away the charges flowing from these statements. Why an opportunity to do this should be refused, he could not understand. He added that he perceived no objection to an examination of two of the members of the grand jury, who held seats in the other House, with regard to the grounds on which the bills of indictment had been found, from which examination it would appear whether there was any necessity for sending for other testimony. These considerations would induce him to vote for the resolution, at the same time that he was little solicitous as to the particular resolution which should be adopted.
Mr. Mitchill stated that Mr. Smith had expressed to him his regret at not having been tried at Richmond on both the charges preferred against him, as he was confident that he could have established his innocence. What was the object of the resolution? To give him this opportunity; to allow him the only resource that remained; to allow him to be tried here by his peers. Therefore, so far as related to the character of Mr. Smith, or to the dignity of the Senate, the enquiry seemed a proper one; and he should consequently vote for the resolution.
Mr. Thruston said that he felt some delicacy in having hazarded an opinion, on the subject of testimony, which seemed in some respects to militate against the provisions of the constitution. What he had uttered on this point had been the result of momentary impressions, and might, possibly, on further reflection, be considered even by himself as erroneous. He should be sorry that on a point of so much importance any thing which had thus hastily fallen from him should go abroad, which might be erroneous. But as the remark had dropped from him, he would briefly state the grounds on
which he had made it, which he still felt to be satisfactory. He was still of opinion that the Senate in such a case were not bound by the technical rules of law as rigidly observed in courts. Various considerations compelled them to pay particular regard to their character and convenience. Hence the constitution had conferred upon them an unlimited power to expel a member. In such a case they were constituted both accusers and judges, in direct violation of the common principles of law. A member might be expelled for acts, which would not render him amenable to a court of justice. He was, therefore, of opinion that in this case the Senate might decide upon what appeared to them credible testimony, although it should not be of such a character as would be admitted in a court of law.
The question was then taken on the resolution, offered by Mr. Thruston, and amended by Mr. Jones, and carried without a division; and Messrs. Adams, Maclay, Franklin, Smith, of Maryland, Pope, Thruston and Anderson appointed the committee.
In the course of the proceedings, Mr. White read the following resolution, as such an one as he thought it most expedient to adopt:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire whether any, and what proceedings should be had against John Smith, a Senator from the State of Ohio, in relation to any connexion he may be supposed to have had with the conspiracy or any illegal enterprise of Aaron Burr, and that the said committee have power to send for persons, papers and records, on the subject committed to them, and to report the facts to the Senate.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. FRIDAY, NOV. 7.
Debate on the reference of a memorial from sundry merchants and traders of the city of Philadelphia, praying for a repeal of the non-importation law.
Mr. J. Clay presented the memorial, which is as follows:
To the President, Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America.
The Memorial of the Merchants and Traders of the city of Philadelphia, respectfully Represents,
That a strong confidence in the neutral position and character of their country, and in the pacific policy of its government, has encouraged and induced many of your Memorialists to embark their property extensively in foreign commerce, and to adventure a large proportion of their wealth upon distant voyages—that recent and unexpected events so far affect the security of their enterprises, as to impel them to make known their sentiments and wishes to Congress.
Your Memorialists cannot but view with extreme solicitude the apparent state of the negotiation between their country and Great Britain, upon the events of which, the safety of their property so materially depends. Their alarm and anxiety increased by reports (perhaps unfounded) of the nature and extent of the demands made by the government of the United States, cannot but be great, while they are wholly destitute of information from official sources, calculated to direct their conduct. They mean not however to intimate a wish for disclosures incompatible with the due reserve of government, but candidly to present to its view their difficulties and embarrassments.
In common with their fellow citizens, your Memorialists entertain the strongest sense of the necessity of supporting the honour and independence of their country—They feel that the national interest is inseparably connected with such support, and although in the event of war, as individuals they must be deeply affected, they have not a wish that considerations of private interest should induce a sacrifice of national honour and independence.
But from the wisdom and patriotism of the National Legislature they conceive the expectation well founded that the commercial interests of the United States, with which the common welfare is inseparably connected, will not be committed by an unyielding adherence to doubtful or unsecured principles. They therefore with confidence submit their hopes that while essential rights, to which, as an independent nation, we are indisputably entitled, will be maintained to the last extremity, matters of seeming interest, but of less importance will be referred to a more propitious and less hazardous moment for adjustment.
Under these impressions, your Memorialists deem it an indispensable duty to themselves and to their fellow citizens of the landed and other interests, most respectfully to suggest to Congress that the act (at present in suspension) entitled an act "To prohibit the importation of certain goods, wares and merchandise."

"passed the 18th day of April, 1806," should it go into operation, will not tend to promote the desirable results of national reparation and amicable adjustment of our differences with Great Britain. In effect that your Memorialists consider the said act, in its application to this country as extremely embarrassing, and in its operation on the government and people of Great Britain as irritating and inefficient. That the repeal of the said act would be productive of beneficial effects, in as much as it would relieve our own citizens from embarrassment, demonstrate a disposition to treat on terms of liberality, and be considered as a pledge of candour and magnanimity in the conduct of the negotiation. While in the event of failure to produce a fair and honourable accommodation, the evils of war, which must severely and equally affect the farmer, merchant and mechanic, would be borne with less regret, as being rendered inevitable.
In submitting their opinions to the National Legislature, your Memorialists have not, they conceive, overlooked the delicacy of the subject to which they relate—and they have anxiously endeavoured, in representing the objects of this Memorial, to connect the national honour and interest with their individual claims and privileges.
Relying on the exercise of a wise, just and dignified policy, your Memorialists respectfully refer the matters herein stated to the consideration and decision of Congress.
The memorial having been read, Mr. J. CLAY moved that it be referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. ROWAN did not feel himself competent to judge on this subject; but would barely suggest to the consideration of the House, whether after the attack on the Chesapeake a petition of this nature should be referred. He himself had disapproved of the act of which this petition prayed a repeal; but it had been passed, and since its passage the memorable affair of the Chesapeake had taken place; and it had been said by the British government that if this act were suffered to go into operation it would be considered as a declaration of war. Under these circumstances he could not as an American vote for a reference of a memorial on this subject. Had he been entitled to a vote previous to the affair of the Chesapeake, he should have voted for a repeal of the law; but now he was opposed to considering the subject at all; they were not now in a situation to parley. And he hoped, whatever might hereafter be done, that the House would not now enter into a consideration of this subject. In rising to express this opinion, he was actuated by the same sentiments that would guide him in common life. If he had committed an injury, in fair words he would retract it; but if a threat were used, he would not. This law had caused a sensation in the cabinet of England, and whatever might be the consequence, they must now make a proper stand; even a reference of this memorial would be a degradation of their dignity.
Mr. J. CLAY said, that whatever were his sentiments as to the propriety of the measure in question, yet as the memorial was couched in moderate terms, and drawn up with ability, he thought it would not be inconsistent with the dignity of Congress to refer it; they did not grant the prayer of the memorial by referring it. It was proposed to be referred to the committee appointed to consider all subjects relating to commerce, and nothing could certainly be more important in relation to commerce, than the existence of the act prohibiting the importation of certain goods, wares, and merchandise. He believed that every man in the community who had considered the act in question, had found it deficient in all its details and perfectly nugatory in some of its provisions. He did not speak of the principle of the act, but of its deficiencies. There was a doubt under that act whether a man could import an inkstand or a lock; or whether he might import a silver watch, though there was no doubt but he could import a gold one; and there were other defects in its provisions of a like nature. There was such inconsistency, that it might be considered doubtful even on the ground of expediency, whether it should not be repealed.
Mr. Rhea (Tenn.) was not one of those who wished for war, with any nation on earth, but he should vote against the reference of this petition or any other that prayed for the same object. It had been said by the gentleman who introduced it that they did not grant its prayer by referring it. That was true; but the very reference of it would give color to the supposition that the House were now deliberating whether they should re-
peal the law or not. It would be reported across the Atlantic, and this very reference might have its effect on the differences subsisting between the two countries. If the U. States had taken this ground, why should they now give it up? He would not consent to it. It had also been said that the act was defective and nugatory. If this meant any thing, it was that it needed amendment; and if it were wished to amend it he was ready to do it, by adding other prohibitions to those it already contained. If he recollected right, the memorial stated that the non-importation act bore hard on our own merchants; that might have been expected. They had notice of its going into operation; why did they after that give their orders for those articles which were prohibited by it. If, as had been stated, not an inkstand or lock or silver watch could be imported, the act could be improved or amended, without being repealed as the petitioners wished. It was stated in the memorial that the law was embarrassing to merchants and irritating to Great Britain, and would tend to prevent an arrangement of the existing difficulties. These were ideas which ought to have no weight in favor of their prayer. Let Great Britain be irritated. Did she not irritate other nations? Had she shown any forbearance towards us? It was not necessary for him to re-capitulate the oppressions of that nation towards the United States: they were known to every member of the House. The U. States had done every thing to secure peace that a nation impressed with a sense of its own dignity ought to do. Should these petitioners be indulged in their wish that the nation should depart from its dignity because they felt some inconvenience? Mr. R. believed that when the matter was fully considered, and every thing taken into view, it would appear that the U. States had offered, in order to an accommodation of these differences, everything which the most liberal policy warranted; if a similar disposition had existed on the part of Britain, they would have been long since settled. Mr. R. concluded by hoping the House would not refer the petition, or give the world an opportunity to say they were now deliberating about the repeal of such a law.
Mr. CROWNINSHIELD held it to be an incontestible right of the citizens of this country to petition Congress on any subject whatever; but he found on looking over the memorial these sentiments; they say that "their alarm and anxiety increased by reports (perhaps unfounded) of the nature and extent of the demands made by the government of the United States cannot but be great, while they are wholly destitute of information from official sources, calculated to direct their conduct." Nor could Mr. C. himself tell specifically what the government of the United States had demanded from Great Britain; the President of the United States had informed the House that he would at a proper time lay before them such information; they were in expectation of such information; and this memorial asked them, before they had received such information to repeal the law prohibiting the importation of certain articles. Though there might be some doubt as to some provisions of that law, it should be no inducement for them now to repeal it. Under what circumstances was that act passed? The United States had made remonstrances to Great Britain on her aggressions for several years without effect; that act was passed to induce her to do us justice. Had she done it? No; the outrage on the Chesapeake had been since committed. This had been known to her several months, and the admiral under whose orders the act was committed had not been punished. Our government had done all that remained for it to do, by asking redress from Great Britain. To this no answer had been given. Should the petitioners ask the House in this situation to repeal the act, or even to suspend it for a longer time? Was it grateful to their feelings? He thought not. He would not have objected to the reference of the petition, had it not been couched in such terms as those he had quoted; but as it was, he thought it his duty to object to the reference. The most delicate way of disposing of it would be to let it lie on the table. The suspension of this act expired in the next month; and they would of necessity consider the propriety of permitting it to go into operation, or of a farther suspension. Mr. C. said he must confess, for his own part, that he could not flatter himself from the rumors now afloat, and from what he thought he knew of the disposition of Great Britain, that she would do us justice so far as was required. He thought they were almost at war. From information which he had received, Great Britain was arming or at least intriguing with the Indians on our frontiers. Her vessels were arming on the Lakes; she had called out
her militia in Canada and Nova Scotia; and this was done, he presumed, by express orders from the British government. She had manifested by her attack on Copenhagen that she would violate neutral rights without a pretence; she had outraged Denmark who never injured her, and had not attempted to justify it to the world but on the mere ground of necessity. He thought Congress ought at this moment to arm the nation, and be prepared to meet the event. He could not sit still and hear such language as the petitioners had used: they were alarmed at the extent of our demands. What were they? It was not in the power of the House to say; but from the known character and conduct of the Executive, they had no right to infer but that they were reasonable and just. He felt a confidence in the Executive and had no wish prematurely to know what those demands were. These were the ideas which occurred to him at this moment; he could, therefore, see no good which could result from a reference of the petition.
Mr. MILNOR said that all the arguments of the gentleman from Massachusetts went to shew that a reference of the memorial would involve an inquiry into the expediency of repealing the law. If he thought the reference of the petition rested on that question, he should entertain the same opinion as had been expressed by that gentleman; but he had yet heard nothing which could convince him of the impropriety of referring this memorial. It would be no more than a proper respect to the petitioners to give it a reference; as far as he had heard the names of the subscribers to the memorial read, he knew them to be men of consideration; he was not personally acquainted with them, but knew them by character. They had addressed the House in respectful language, and had requested them to consider the propriety of repealing a certain law. What impropriety was there in this? The gentleman from Massachusetts had admitted that it was a question which required consideration, whether the law should go into operation or be repealed; and from the observations he had uttered, it appeared to be his desire to enter into more violent measures than those contemplated by that law. Mr. M. had never thought that law judicious, or that a partial prohibition of importation would have a good effect on our foreign relations, but that it would merely tend to irritate; and, he would rather have seen a law passed to prohibit all importation, than one of so futile a nature. If the situation of the country was such as to require strong measures, that law would not be such as ought to be adopted. He thought strong measures were required, that they had been sleeping at their posts; that from the present aspect of our political differences with Great Britain, they should have taken measures for defence, and not have remained so long idle. The memorial had been caused by the uncertain language of the law, as his colleague had informed the House, by which some persons had suffered considerable losses; some had considered it as safe, and some as unsafe to import certain articles. He hoped the memorial would be referred to a committee, who need not report till the probable issue of events were ascertained. If it were a question whether that law should be repealed or not, as had been admitted by the gentleman from Massachusetts, surely there would be no impropriety in the petition going to that committee whose duty it would be to consider of the propriety of the repeal.
Mr. W. ALSTON said he thought it at this time extremely improper to refer the petition, as was proposed. If any step were to be taken in regard to the prayer of the petition it should be done in committee of the whole House. If the expediency of repealing the law alluded to in the petition was to be considered, it was a plain question which would present itself to every member of the House, and could be decided without any previous reference to any inferior committee. The petition said something about instructions given to our ministers. If it were referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures, they might think themselves authorised to call upon the Secretary of State for information; it had therefore better be at once brought before the House, and not go to a committee; for though he felt perfect confidence in that committee, he was not willing at this crisis to entrust them with the power of calling for information which it might not be proper to communicate. In the committee of the whole a resolution might be brought forward which would determine the principle at once; he therefore moved that it be referred to the committee of the whole House.
The SPEAKER said the motion
made by Mr. Alston would supersede the motion for reference to the committee of Commerce & Manufactures.
Mr. BASSETT amended the motion so as to refer it to a committee of the whole on the state of the union.
Mr. SMILIE was sorry this motion was made, for it was certainly giving the memorial more importance than was attached to it by the motion of his colleague, who had introduced it. He considered the matter in a serious point of view. That there was in this country a party in favor of the British government, he had no doubt; nor did he doubt but that this memorial was intended to embarrass the operations of our government, and strengthen the British government in their measures. This was his opinion; and if other gentlemen also thought so, they would manifest it by their votes.
Mr. BASSETT said it would be recollected by the House, that, urged by the same feelings which had actuated the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Rowan) he had arisen to offer his sentiments on the subject; but had been prevented by the preference given to another gentleman. He considered the subject in a different light from the gentleman last up, and did not view it merely as it affected the petitioners. Their proceedings on this memorial would go forward to the public, and shew to the world their opinions on the subject. Should they not now rouse from the slumber into which the gentleman from Pennsylvania had said they had fallen? Should they not shew that they would be roused when the occasion called for it. He wished it referred to a committee of the whole on the state of the Union, because the nation was particularly interested in it; not to give peculiar consequence to the petition, but because he wished the full sense of the House to be obtained on it. He had prepared a resolution before the gentleman from N. C. made his motion, declaring that the law ought not to be repealed. He thought this would have been the proper course; but as the affair now stood it was his wish to go into a committee of the whole instanter ; not out of respect to the petitioners, but to the community, who had been long waiting for an expression of their sentiments. What have we said, asked Mr. B.? That we will support the government and its measures? No; we have said nothing. He was for giving to the world their opinion, that as far as those measures were correct and proper, they would support them in their full extent. This was his reason for wishing it referred to the committee of the whole on the state of the Union.
Mr. CHANDLER said he could not say whether the subscribers to the petition were American citizens or British subjects residing in our cities. If he were to judge from the language and terms which it conveyed, he should strongly suspect that they were of the latter class of people. If he were certain of that, he should wish the petition not to be noticed at all; but as he was not perfectly convinced of it, he wished it to lie on the table. If it were necessary to take up the subject they could at any time go into a committee of the whole on the state of the union, without the assistance of the petition.
Mr. SOUTHARD said that the language of the petitioners was decent, but their object, the time of their application, and the observations which they had made, he thought extremely improper. The petition contained insinuations that the Executive had taken too high ground, and demanded things that were improper; he therefore thought the memorial was not entitled to that countenance from the House which it would appear to receive by a reference to a committee of the whole. He differed in opinion with the gentleman from Virginia just at down, who thought this memorial should rouse their feelings; he thought it should stand on its own merits. The subject was in the hands of a committee, who would soon make a report, and they might then display their feelings. When the law in question was passed, he thought some steps were necessary to be taken to convince the British government, that they would not calmly put up with all their injuries, but would resent them. He had believed this law would have that effect, and that Congress ought to pass it; and having taken this ground he would not retreat—this was no time for retreating; he would much rather advance. The petitioners had chosen a very unfortunate time for their prayer, when a negotiation was actually pending. What would be the effect of a reference of the memorial? It would strengthen the measures of the British government; they would suppose that the House repented of its conduct. This would be the effect as respected G. Britain. What would be its effect as respected our own government? It would as a necessary consequence weaken their hands. He was willing to treat the petitioners
with respect, as he did not know whether they were British agents or American citizens; but he trusted the action for reference to a committee of the whole would not prevail as he could see no one reason for it.
(DEBATE TO BE CONTINUED.)
POSTSCRIPT.
We learn that our government received no letters from Mr. Monroe by the British Packet lately arrived. It was before known that on the 7th of September, Mr. Monroe addressed a note to Mr. Canning in consequence of his instructions by the Revenge, complaining of the aggression on the Chesapeake, calling on that government for reparation of the wrong, and for a final discussion and understanding on their claim to take whomsoever they chuse to call their seamen , wherever found; and assuring him at the same time that he was authorised to concur in arrangements liberally calculated to take away all ground for that practice. It is now ascertained that the answer was that by the President's proclamation we had taken the business of satisfaction for the aggression on the Chesapeake, so far into our own hands; that still however the British government was ready to enter into a discussion of that act, if it could be done separately, leaving their general claim to future negotiation; but as Mr. Monroe considered himself unauthorised to settle this act separately, that government would enter with him into no explanations concerning it, but would send a minister to this place for that special purpose. Whether this is a mere manoeuvre to avoid a settlement, and lose the subject altogether in the endless mazes of negotiation, is to be judged of by the promptitude or the delay of this mission. In the mean time our peace is left at the mercy of their officers whose interest and wish is war with all mankind; and how can it be pretended that the subjects have no connection? They claim a right to take those whom they call their seamen (and under that cover ours also) wherever they can find them, even without their own jurisdiction. And 1st. Their officers are in the daily practice of taking them from on board our merchant vessels, and with them many more of ours than of theirs. 2. They have repeatedly done the same in foreign ports and countries, particularly in Canton, in Lisbon, and now lately in Madeira, going ashore and seizing them in the streets and houses of the place. 3. In the instance now in question, they have extended it to the taking them by force from our national armed ships. And 4. The next step may be to patrol by their press-gangs the streets of New-York and Norfolk, and take from thence all those who may resist them; their principle evidently goes to this extent—Is it then sufficient to receive satisfaction for an act done under one particular branch of this abuse, without any assurance that it will not be repeated the next day under the others? Certain it is there never can be friendship, nor even a continuance of peace with England so long as no American citizen can leave his own shores without danger of being seized by the first British officer he meets, and made to serve as a common seaman on board their ships of war: and equally so, that if the general question is not settled now, we may give it up forever, and let our citizens understand that they are abandoned by their country to the unbridled power of every British naval commander.
The H. ship, arrived at Philadelphia, brings Bristol news to the 19th of Oct. and London to the 15th. On the 14th the Revenge was at Cowes, whence she was to sail the next day for Brest. The London prints say, her actions had been sent to India to impose an additional duty of 10 per cent on all neutral vessels trading to British ports. No mention is made of the departure of Mr. Monroe.
WANTED , a good Woman COOK who can be well recommended—likewise an active Man SERVANT accustomed to house service. Enquire at this Office. Nov. 30—91
BY order of the Orphan's Court of Washington county will be sold, at auction, at the late dwelling house of Samuel Koshpatrick, deceased, on the Centre Market, on Saturday the 5th day of December, the PERSONAL PROPERTY of the said deceased; consisting of a variety of Household Furniture, a Negro Girl, a Horse and a Milch Cow. Terms will be made known on the day of sale. Sale to commence at 11 A. M. November 30—5
NEW STORE. The Subscriber begs leave to inform the public that he has begun business in the GROCERY & DRY GOODS line, and shall be happy to accommodate his customers on the most reasonable terms. He has received an assortment of Morocco and Kid Snuffs of all sorts; also men's Shirts and women's Slippers, all kind of Wines and Liquors, and extra old Cider. To be let 3 or 4 fine Rooms up stairs to a genteel family. F. A. WAGLER, November 30—4

MALTHUS ON POPULATION.
PROPOSALS. FOR PUBLISHING BY SUBSCRIPTION, BY J. MILLIGAN A SELLER OF GEORGETOWN (From the third London edition) AN ESSAY on the PRINCIPLE OF POPULATION; Or a view of its past and present effects on Human Happiness; with an En- quiry into our prospects respecting the future removal or mitigation of the evils which it occasions.
BY T. MALTHUS, A. M. Late Fellow of Jesus College, Cambridge.
IN TWO VOLUMES.
CONDITIONS.
The first American edition of Malthus on Population will be comprised in two volumes, octavo, page for page with the London copy. It shall be printed on a handsome woven paper and a new type; each volume will contain about 550 pages.
The price to subscribers, in boards, for each volume, will be two dollars — handsomely bound and lettered, Two Dollars and Fifty Cents . To non- subscribers the price will be Two Dol- lars and Fifty Cents , in boards, for each volume, and Three Dollars bound and lettered.
Subscriptions for the above work are received by R. C. WRIGHTMAN, city of Washington, and by the prin- cipal Booksellers in the United States.
Extract from the Rainbow, a periodical publication situated at Richmond, Virginia.
The writer of this Essay, performs what he feels to be in the most em- phatic sense of the term, a social duty, when on this subject he recommends to such of his readers as may not have been fortunate enough to peruse "Essay on Population," by Malthus. From the perusal of this great work, he has de- rived more original and valuable infor- mation, on the most important subject that can exercise superior genius, or attract the attention of an enlightened people, than from any other book, or from all the other books he has ever read. It is equally calculated to correct the gross prejudices of more common sense, and dispel the splendid illu- sions of fanciful speculation respecting the immortal condition of man on earth, the productive causes and proper correctives of human misery and vice, and the future prospects of social im- provement. To many of his readers this note may probably appear to be su- perfluous, and perhaps impertinent. For surely a work of such inestimable value and celebrity must be already in the hands of every man who aspires to discharge the functions of an editor, legislator or instructor in Virginia." J. March's bookstore, Georgetown, } Columbia, November 25—tf
MIDDLEBURG
GRAMMAR SCHOOL. THE subscriber, who for some time past has had the care of the above school, informs the public that he has removed it to his farm near Middleburg, where he will, as heretofore, teach the Languages, and the more useful branches of the Mathematics. His ex- perience as a teacher, having acted in that capacity for more than 20 years, and his determination to pay the utmost attention to the improvement and mor- als of his pupils; in connexion with the local advantages of the school justify him in hoping for a considerable share of public patronage.
WILLIAM WILLIAMSON, V. D. M. Green Hill near Middleburg, Loudoun county, Virginia, November 23—tf
FOR SALE —Lot 6. 15 in square 577 of Washington city—this lot is bounded on the North by North F street, on the West by West 10th street, and contains a very convenient Two Story HOUSE, but a very few steps distant from Coffey's Spring—an indisputable title will be given. Those who wish to purchase may apply for the terms to Thomas Patterson in Washington city or to the subscriber in Berkeley county Virginia.
ALEXANDER PORTERFIELD. Virginia, November 23—1m
W. S. NICHOLLS, BRIDGE STREET, GEORGE TOWN, HAS received, and is now offering for sale a very large and general as- sortment of FALL and WINTER GOODS, consisting of superfine and second Cloths, and Cassimeres, Com- bined in Cords, Velvets and Velveteens, Calicoes, Cambrics and Dimities, Lon- don Hts, Flannels, Coatings and Blan- kets, French and Italian Plaid and Plain Silks, Silk Velvets, Irish and German Linen, India Muslins of every descrip- tion, with almost every article attached to the Dry Good business, which he will sell for cash as low as any person in town. November 11—3w
WEISKOPFF and KELLER, CONFECTIONERS, RESPECTFULLY inform the ladies and gentlemen of George Town and the city of Washington, that they can be supplied with every kind of CAKE, of the very best quality— Ornaments for Tables, of the most elegant form, and in the newest style. Ice Creams, Jellies of all kinds, on the shortest notice. They keep always on hand, Cordials of every kind, excellent in quality, and genuine, such as Noyeau, Orange, Ra- tiffy, &c. &c. High street, George Town, } November, 11—tf
SALE BY AUCTION.
MRS. SOMERVILLE not having procured Buyers, intends selling a part of her HOUSEHOLD FUR- NITURE , on Saturday the 28th inst. at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, consisting of Bedsteads, Bedding, Tables, Chairs, &c. &c. A credit of 60 days will be given for all sums above 20 dollars, the purchasers giving negotiable paper with approved endorsers. S. SPEAKE, Auct.
N. B. will be RENTED to a Private Family 3 or 4 rooms with a Kitchen and Garden, next door to the Office of the National Intelligencer, on moderate terms. Enquire of DAVID SOMERVILLE. Nov. 23—2t.
NEW POLITICAL PAPER.
WEEKLY REGISTER OF POLI- TICS AND NEWS." THE gentlemen of Congress, and others, who are inclined to patro- nize this work, are respectfully inform- ed that a subscription paper is lodged in the hands of P. Magruder, Esq., clerk to the House of Representatives. Mr. Mather (of the Senate) will re- ceive the names of gentlemen of that body, who may be disposed to patronize the Register, &c. J. B. COLVIN. November 13.
P. MAURO TAKES the liberty to inform his Friends, the Members of Congress, and the Inhabitants of the city in ge- neral, that he has lately returned from a journey to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, with a LARGE supply of the best and choicest GROCERIES, WINES, SPIRITS, CORDIALS, FRUITS, PRESERVES, SPICES, PICKLES, &c. And also, with a large and well se- lected assortment of DRY & FANCY GOODS, which he offers for sale at his store ad- joining Mr. Thomas W. Pairo, west of the Seven Buildings, by wholesale and retail at very moderate terms. October 30—tf
WILL be sold at Public Auction , on the premises, on Monday the 30th of November next, part of Lot number 4, in square 78, being 28 feet front, near the Western Market, and extending back about 147 feet to an alley. There is erected upon this lot, a good Brick Building covering the whole front, with a good Kitchen and enclosure, and was formerly occupied by Dr. Bullus. As the property is well known, nothing further descriptive is thought necessary. Washington, October 30—tds
NEW STORE.
HENRY O. DYER has opened in his new BRICK STORE in Bridge street, betwixt Elisha and Romulus Riggs's stores, and second door from John Cox, a large and handsome assort- ment of FALL & WINTER GOODS, all of the latest importations; among them many Fancy articles; he has also, a very handsome assortment of super- fine Cloths and Fancy Cassimeres and Waistcoatings, and a large assortment of very fine 7/8th and 4/4th Irish Linens and 5/4th sheetings, all of which he will sell uncommonly low for cash. George Town, November 11—2w
SPERMACETI CANDLES And winter Strained SPERMACETI OIL of superior quality, from the first Ma- nufactory in the United States, with a few barrels of strained Oil of a superior quality for the use of Curriers, just re- ceived and for sale, by JOHN GOULDING, Who has on hand a choice selection of excellent LIQUORS fit for immediate use, to be sold cheap for cash. George Town, November 11—1m
BURNS and BEALL. WOOLLEN drapers, men's mer- cers, and tailors, New-Jersey A- venue, opposite the Secretary of the Navy's, respectfully inform the public that they have commenced business in the above line, where they will endeav- or to give satisfaction—they have on hand a fresh supply of the most fash- ionable goods, suitable for the approach- ing season, all fresh and of the very best quality. N. B. Regimentals and naval uni- forms made in the most elegant and fashionable stile with neatness and dis- patch. October 23—tf
ST. ANDREWS SOCIETY THE Anniversary Meeting of the St. Andrews Society, will be held at Rhodes's tavern on Monday the 30th inst. at 4 o'clock, P. M. By order of the Society, J. MURDOCH, Sec. November, 25—3t
TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD. RAN away from Freestone Point, near Dumfries, on Sunday the 17th of last month, a Negro Man, named ANDREW, the property of SARAH TOUCHEE, in Prince William county, and hired of her until the end of the year. He had a pass for three days, being Whitsunday Holidays. Andrew is about 21 years of age, 5 feet 9 inches high, a black complexion; has a scar near the corner of his eye, is a little cross-eyed, and has a forward, impudent countenance. Any person who will apprehend and secure him in jail, so that the subscri- ber, living near Dumfries, may get him again, shall receive the above reward. JOHN STONE. Prince William county, June 27. M. B. AR person who will harbor- ing him, or conveying him away by land or water.
TAKEN up as a stray on the 16th inst. near Bladensburg, a dark brown Horse , between 11 and 12 years, of age, and about 13 and 1-2 hands high, has a bob- tail, and 2 or 3 small saddle spots and was shod all round. The owner of the above horse may have him again by proving property and paying charges, on application to JOSEPH HARDISTY, near Bladensburg. November 27—St
PUBLIC SALE.
At eleven o'clock, A. M. on Thurs- day, the 31 of December next, at the house of the subscriber, will com- mence, on very accommodating terms, the sale of the HOUSE he now occupies; and the one ad- joining, at present occupied by Mr. George M'Caully. Also, Two Frame Houses, one of them on 4th street, east, nearly oppo- site the school house of Mr. Van Zandt, and the other on Canal street, near the Tobacco inspection: And also, several Lots of Ground, in sizes to suit purchasers, on square 799, (ad- joining Mr. Robert Cherry's) and on square 904, fronting the west side of the Marine Barracks. The contigu- ity of the whole of this property to the Navy Yard and Eastern Branch, ad- mits of its being called as good as any in this city. After which will be sold, the subscri- ber's entire stock of DRY GOODS AND GROCERIES, Some Ironmongery, Crockery, &c. &c. The terms of which will be made known at the time of sale. ALEXANDER COCHRAN. City of Washington, Nov. 20, 1807.
LINDSAY'S HOTEL.
THE Subscriber has taken that well calculated house on the Capitol Hill. Late occupied by Mr. Frost formerly by Mr. Steele—Where he intends to open a Tavern on the 24th October. Those gentlemen who may favor him with their Custom may rely on every attention in the Power of the Public's devoted Servant. GEO. W. LINDSAY. N. B.—EIGHT or TEN BOARDERS may be conveniently accommodated. October 19—tf
ROSS AND GETTY.
IN Addition to a Large and General Assortment of GROCERIES, have for sale at their store next door to the Union Tavern George Town, Genuine Old Madeira, Sicily Madeira, } Sherry, } Particular Teneriffe, } Old Port in hogsheads } and in bottles, } Lisbon, } Malaga, } Corsica, } Claret & Fontinac, } Cognac, Bordeaux, Peach, and Apple Brandy, Jamaica, Antigua, and New England Rum, Holland and Country Gin, Irish and Country Whiskey, Crab Apple Cider, in hogsheads and bottles, French Cordials and Sweet-Meats of different kinds. Olives, Capers, Anchovies, Salmon, Mackarel, Cod-fish, and smoked Herrings. By the Schooner Fair American, cap- tain Clements from New York and the sloop Unity, captain Hand from Phila- delphia, besides many other articles in the Grocery Line, they have received a quantity of CHEESE, Currants, Span- ish Segars of an excellent quality; best winter strained Spermaceti Oil, Mould and Dip'd Candles, &c. &c. November 6—tf
LAND FOR SALE.
I WILL sell for cash, or exchange for Dry Goods or Groceries, on mod- erate terms, the following described prop- erty. A Lot of Ground in George Town, on Washington and Gay streets, front- ing the former 120 and the latter 60 feet. The situation of this lot is desirable, and taking into view the rapid growth of the town, is considered as being valua- ble. Also a Tract of unimproved LAND, in Monocogalia county Virginia, contain- ing 1003 acres, contiguous to the navig- able water of Cheat river. The soil is inferior to none in that part of the coun- try. The production of the land can be conveyed to Pittsburg in two days, where a sure and ready sale is always to be obtained. The public road from this to Clarks- burg Virginia, runs through it, from thence to Marietta, Chillicothe, &c. Any person disposed to purchase or barter, may know the terms by appli- cation to the subscriber. ALEXANDER SUTER, Corner of High and Bridge streets, George Town. November 18—1m
ALEXANDER SUTER, HAS for Sale, at the store lately oc- cupied by Mr. Edgar Patterson, corner of High & Bridge streets George Town, a large Collection of valuable BOOKS, with a general assortment of STATIONERY—also a variety of Fancy Articles, all of which will be sold low for cash. Just received, and now opening for sale, Elegant Gold and Silver Epaulets, Gold and Silver Lace, Gold Cord, Officers crimson silk SASHES, of supe- rior quality, True Washingtonian, Jeffersonian, and Madisonian RAZORS. November 18—1m
L'ORACLE!
A FRENCH & AMERICAN PAPER Is to be published in the city of New York on the 1st of January, 1808. WE are authorised to announce to Amateurs of Languages and especially to American Ladies, and Gentlemen that this new establishment is dedicated and adapted to their general beneficial use. Subscription Lists to receive subscri- bers are left at this Office, with the Representatives of South Carolina and New York, at Mr. WEIGHTMAN's Bookstore, and at STELLE's Hotel, &c. Subscribers to pay Nine Dollars per annum, Eight Dollars only if paid in advance. November 25—
OWN GOULDING,
HAS FOR SALE, Rea good Old Madeira, } Sicily Madeira, } Sherry, Lisbon, } Port, & Buccello's } Wines, in Casks and in Bottles. Claret in bottles, large and small boxes, from 6 to 12 dollars per dozen, Cognac Brandy, Peach and Apple brandy, Jamaica spirit, Holland gin, Whiskey in barrels, 5th proof, Loaf and Lump Sugar in barrels, Porter and Ale in hds. and in barrels. Together with most other Wines and Spirits generally used in this part of the country—Also, Ravens Duck, Sperm- aceti Candles, and oil of the very first quality, with sundry other articles, all of which he is determined to sell low for money or on short credit to his kind and punctilious customers. Cash purchasers will find it their in- terest to call on him. He earnestly requests all those in- debted to him to cause payment to be made to him soon; also those indebted to him for Postage since last year and the beginning of the present Georgetown, October 23—tf
FRESH TEAS
THE subscriber has received by Captain Elwood, 6 Chests of Old Hyson, } 4 ditto Young Hyson, } 6 ditto Best Imperial } Teas. Oranges, limes, oil, olives, capers, &c. Daily expected— 50 Boxes of mould Candles 20 ditto dipped ditto 50 ditto brown soap 10 ditto white ditto and a large quantity of Cordials, pre- served limes, ginger, currant jelly, pickles, &c. P. MAURO. October 30—tf
VALUABLE PROPERTY,
FOR SALE. WILL be offered to the highest bidder at the house of Mr. M. Semmes in this town, on Monday the 30th No- vember next, such parts of the following property as may not be disposed of prior to that day, viz. several improved and unimproved water and other Lots, and parts of Lots in George Town and its additions—Lot 7 in square 79, and 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, in square 569 city of Washington, together with the following lands—the Vale 403 1-4 acres; Dry meadow 34 acres; Good Fellowship 21 acres; Mount Airy 59 1-2; part of Mount Airy, 5 1-2 acres; Below Am- sterdam 12 1-2; acres Burn's Neglect 81 acres; Prospect 167 1-2; and part Knowds Disappointment 51-2 ac. in the district; New Harkor 83 acres; I Be- lieve it will be 9 acres; Little Spot 12 1-4 ac. Montgomery & Frederick county Maryland—Nichols Delight 60 1-2 acres, Last Shift 100 acres; the resurvey of Cresop's neglect 204 3-4 acres, and Ja- cobs Ladder 300 acres, in Alleghany county Maryland, and 5132 acres in Randolph county Virginia. Sale to com- mence at 4 o'clock P. M. and to continue from day to day till the whole is sold— Terms of sale, time agreeable to the amount purchased, to be made known on the day of sale, where plots of the whole will be shown. J. M. BEATTY, C. A. BEATTY. George Town, October 26—tds
TO LET.
One large 5 story BRICK HOUSE, new and completely finished in an elegant stile, in an advantageous situation. FOR SALE—Three well finished two story Brick Houses on Pennsylvania avenue, and a number of City Lots in good situations for improvement, on very reasonable terms. All kinds of Stocks bought and sold. Washington city. Nov. 18—
20 DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN away from the subscriber in August last, a Negro Charles—he is a straight well made black man, about 26 years of age, 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high; has lost some of his fore teeth; is remarkably polite and much of a gallant. The above reward will be paid to any person who will bring him home or lodge him any jail so that I get him again. WM. B. BRANES. Upper Marlboro', Jan. 9—twtf
E. OLIVER,
Has just returned from Philadelphia, with a handsome collection of the most fashionable English and French MILLINERY & FANCY GOODS. Among which are the following arti- cles:— Beaver hats and bonnets, Velvet do. do. Lace caps, Chenelle net do. Bugle net do. Feathers and wreathing, Artificial flowers, frosted and others, Wreaths, Gold combs, Pearl and gold mounted do. Plain do. Necklaces and earrings, Laced handkerchiefs spencers and tuckers, Cords and tassels, and sashes, Hat-bands, Hair-bands, hair lace, and hair plat, Imperial chip hats and bonnets, Pressed do. do. New fashioned straw and Leghorn hats and bonnets, Best Lyons ribbons, damask'd, of new patterns, A variety of trimmings, of new patterns, for dresses, Gold and silver spangles, bullion, thread, cord, and cord & tassels, Angola and Cashmere shawls, Fashionable twilled silks for dresses Pe- lices and mantles, Superfine pelice coatings, Best English velvets, of all colors, Do. plushes, White satins, mantuas and Florence, Colored and cross barred do. A large and general assortment of ladies and gentlemen's gloves, Misses do. A general assortment of muslins, Muffs and tippets, A neat assortment of Murray's shoes, Wadding, Military plumes, &c. &c. Together with a general assortment of DRY GOODS. Georgetown, Nov. 3w
ELISHA RIGGS,
Has imported by the late arrivals, from London and Liverpool, via Baltimore and Alexandria. EIGHTY-NINE PACKAGES, FALL GOODS. And now opened at his New Store Bridge street—which being direct from the Manufacturers, will be sold very low, by Wholesale or Retail for CASH, or to punctilious customers only at short dates—(liberal allowances, will be made to Retailers or Purcha- sers)—Among them are, 9 bales superfine cloths, cassimeres, coatings and fies, 21 do. flannels, blankets, kerseys, cottons and plaies, 6 cases checks, dimities, Manchestry, and cords, 3 trunks upholsterers furniture, and hatters trimmings, 3000 lbs. London sein twine, in casks of 350 lbs. each, 10 boxes and 3 casks, tin, plate, cut- lery, and buttons, 6 cases gentlemen's hats, and um- brellas, 8 trunks silk, cotton, Angola and worsted hosiery, 3 bales carpets, carpeting and hearth rugs, ALSO, A large supply of cheap Irish linens, calicoes, ginghams, shirting muslins, coarse linens and India muslins.
FANCY GOODS.
Ladies pelice cloths, velvets, silk pe- lices, lace caps, lace handkerchiefs, artificial flowers, fancy beaver bonnets, hats, feathers and cords, head orna- ments, laces, silk and set buttons, cos- settees, satin shoes, elegant silk hosie- ry, sleeves and gloves, fancy muslins, short dancing dresses, cashmere and damask shawls, fancy silks, Shawbly muslins, ribbons, linen cambric & lare shades. Harwells, celebrated Patent Swa- sanders, for ease, elegance, strength, &c. exceeds any in use. Cash will be given for 40 shares of Columbia stock—Apply as above. George Town, Nov. 20—F&M2m
CHARLES H. VARDEN,
MERCHANT TAILOR, RESPECTFULLY informs the gen- tlemen of the district of Columbia and public in general, that he has just received by a late arrival from Philadel- phia, A CHOICE ASSORTMENT Of superfine Cloths, Cassimeres, single and double milled, superfine Coating, black silk Florentines. Like wise an elegant assortment of Spanish and rich silk Meloskins for waistcoats with a variety of other articles suitable for the season. Regimentals and Navy Uniforms made in the most elegant and uniform stile of fashion. Richard Harwell's celebrated patent parallel suspenders far superior to any hitherto in use can be had on the same terms retail as at his manufactory. Four or five good Journeymen wanted, who will find constant employ. November 27—tf
BY order of the Orphan's Court of Montgomery county, will be exposed to Public Sale, on Monday the 21st day of December next at the Dwelling Plantation of the late Abstem Biddle, a parcel of valuable Negroes, Horses, Cattle, Sheep and Hogs, Household and Kitchen Furniture, Plantation Utensils, &c. also a quantity of Corn and Corn Fodder, &c. on a credit of nine months, the purchaser giving bond with appro- ved security bearing interest from the day of sale. The sale to commence at 10 o'clock on the day aforesaid and to continue from day to day until the whole is sold. J. BEDDO, surviving Executor of Asahel Beddo. November 16—w4t