The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1805-11-08 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER, AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
Vol. VI.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
No. DCCXIII.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 1805.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
BIOGRAPHY.
PROFESSIONAL LIFE OF MR. DIBDIN.
WRITTEN BY HIMSELF.
From the London Monthly Review.
IT has been remarked by Dr. Johnson, that much as we may lament the ravages of death, "nobody is missed;" perhaps it may with not less truth be asserted, that while living no one can draw to himself any extensive or permanent regard. Those individuals, of which the great multitude is composed, are too closely occupied with their own narrow and selfish pursuits, to think much or long of the interest or fame of others; hence the exertions of merit, as well as the displays of vanity, attract only a transient notice; and appeals to the public, however ingeniously managed, are more frequently a source of mortification than of triumph. Complaining, like begging, is no prepossessing mode of introduction; and he must have better luck than commonly falls to the share of mortals, who obtains respect by detailing his grievances and mortifications. Mr. Dibdin's experience and knowledge of the world should have taught him how soon the generous emotions of our nature are stifled by those of an opposite tendency, and how little genuine social virtue constitutes the cement of what is called Society. He owns indeed "that he could never comprehend the world as a social system." As a combination of selfishness it is easily understood; and the different respect which is paid to the rich & to the poor, to the prosperous & to the unfortunate, sufficiently explains the nature of the friendship of mankind.
Men of genius and creative talents, who have contributed to amuse their fellow creatures, are apt to suppose that they can arrest the general tide of selfishness in its course, and fix the public attention on their destiny; but, in most attempts of this kind, they errate their own conscience even in the estimation of their admirers; they forget the observation of Lord Orford, that "the best part of authors are their works;" and that it does not follow, because they have written to please, that the world is solicitous to learn the ordinary occurrences of their lives.—To obviate the charge of vanity and egotism in thus detailing the particulars of his own history, Mr. D. informs us that he has been threatened with a publication, in which the principal events of his professional life were to be exhibited; and which could not be rendered abortive unless he himself stopped forward and anticipated it. If this measure should prevent calumny and misrepresentation, we congratulate him on its adoption; though it is obvious that he was actuated by another motive than that of pure self defence. While he exposes "the tiny vanity which nourished Garrick's inflated mind," does he not by this publication expose himself to some such charge? We wish to render ample justice to Mr. D's genius and industry; and we read with concern of the difficulties which have embarrassed his exertions; but we are of opinion that his sufferings are not sufficiently sublime to interest the public; that his disagreements with managers, proprietors and music sellers, however important to himself, scarcely deserves a pompous recitation; and that, resting his professional fame on the merit of his numerous compositions, it would have been wiser to have passed over, in a dignified silence, the obloquy of his enemies, and to have solaced his retirement with that self-commendation, which, by his confession, makes full amends for the censure of the ignorant and the illiterate.
Mr. Dibdin does not enumerate all the circumstances of his life, (and so far he has not furnished a complete piece of biography) but confines himself for the most part to his professional employments and undertakings; and he has swelled out the publications with numbers of his songs, in the composition of which, as to quantity, and frequently as to quality, he stands unrivalled, and which will be thought by many to constitute the chief excellence of the volumes before us. This indefatigable lyric poet does not tell us when he was born, nor does he afford any dates through the whole of his narrative; but he states that he was the son of a silversmith, at Southampton, a man of considerable credit in that city. The following is the account which he gives of his commencement in life:
Young men thrown upon the world are straws in a torrent, as it hastens to the ocean; some are precipitated to the bottom, others driven out to sea, others, returned by the eddy, rest in tranquillity from the general tumult. No young man was ever more completely in this situation than myself: and if by repeated struggles I have purchased a little quiet, I have, perhaps, more to thank chance than my own prudence. That I gained the eddy was owing to an insatiate thirst for information, which has acted as an impetus on my mind from my infancy, and which could not
have been indulged had I sailed down the strong current of life.
Impulsive, however, as this desire of knowledge was, I never could do more than one thing at a time, and this is the reason, perhaps, that I have done so much. Music was my supreme delight; it possessed and engrossed me, nor would my mind admit of any thing else, at least materially, till I had fully accomplished all that I found necessary for my purpose; and thus it happened that, though my father intended me for the church, and I suffered the common imposition of what is usually called education, it was rather like something laid by for future, than intended for immediate use. My darling passion for music was also fed fortuitously. I had, when a boy, a remarkable good voice; and therefore not only cut a great figure at the college and the cathedral at Winchester, where I sung anthems, but the concert rooms, the races and the assemblies echoed with my vocal fame.
A weekly subscription concert was in a great measure on this account established, at which the instrumental performers were principally clergymen, as well as the subscribers, which latter were of the dignified kind. Dr. Eden, the archdeacon, a man of great suavity, and most winning manners, and whose kindness and advice to me, tho' I was then but 12 years old, I shall never forget: Dr. Headley, the chancellor, of whom I have spoken in the history of the stage, whose beneficence has dignified him a thousand times more than his situation or his being the son of a bishop; these, and many other gentlemen, among them were the Biddulphs, Mr. Cornwall, afterwards speaker of the House of Commons, col. Caesar, and a long list of residents in the vicinity of Winchester, were among the number of the subscribers.
Mr. Ashe Madden Cotten, the brother of him who travestied Virgil , and a list of other beneficed clergymen in the neighborhood composed the band, & I was the principal singer. Being thus employed and bandied about at the houses of almost all the prebends in the cloister, and now and then stolen away by the officers of the camp, I had but little leisure, and indeed inclination, to make any thing but music my study; and if I had not been rejected on account of my youth, when I put up for an organist's place at Waltham, in Hampshire, it is not impossible but I should have been obliged to content myself with 30 pounds a year, an annual concert, and my smacking profits, as a teacher, with the governess of a country boarding school.
While I was enquiring for another vacancy, my brother, a very celebrated seaman, the particulars of whose life I have faithfully recounted under the name of captain Higgins, in my novel of " Hannah Hewet ," gave me a most hearty invitation to London, and assured me he could certainly provide for me to my entire satisfaction. My fortune was now made, as it has been since very frequently, in idea. To town I came; visited all the churches; fell in love with ex tempore playing; soon learned to handle Moll Peaty , Robin Joan and Lillabullera , in a voluntary; and little as such a circumstance may be suspected of me, by favor of a deputy organist, I often played the congregation out of church at St. Bride's before I was 16 years old.
A man of Mr. Dibdin's musical talents and fertile invention soon found his way to the Theatres; he breakfasted with Beard, dined with Rice, and hence began his dramatical career. It will not be required of us to follow him in his account of his engagements and disagreements with Mr. Garrick, and afterwards with Mr. Harris, the manager of Covent Garden; to enter into the particulars of his planning the Circus at Blackfriar's Bridge, and subsequently quarrelling with Hughes and Grimaldi; to attend him to Exeter Change, the Lyceum, and Leicester square, where he stood alone without the aid or embarrassment of partnership; to pursue him in his country excursions, in which he bitterly complains of the difficulties and rebuffs which he sustained on being considered as an impostor, or as the personator of himself, and not the real Mr. Dibdin; or at last to trace him to a music-shop. It will be sufficient thus to hint at the leading passages of his life, which has not been of the most prosperous nature; for he remarks it as a "curious trait in his fortune, that he has met with men whose minds were full of depravity, and who were alike strangers to justice and humanity."
If, however, Mr. D. has been unfortunate, he has not been idle. "I have written," says he, "in the course of my life, exclusive of my entertainment of Sans Souci, nearly seventy dramatic pieces, of different descriptions, besides having set to music fifteen or sixteen, the productions of other writers. In the whole of those which I have invented and brought forward, are included more than nine hundred songs, a number, I should imagine, not again to be found in the English language."
In the third volume, Mr. D. explains himself on the subject of his industry and rapid composition:
"Though the songs which I have written and composed have amounted to a number so far beyond credibility, that the fact could not be believed, but for the chapter and verse proof of it is given in the narrative, yet they have employed, comparatively, a very small portion of my time. The same impulse that inspired the words, has generally given birth to the music, and those that are the most celebrated, have been produced with the least trouble. I begun and completed the Sailor's Journal in half an hour; and I could mention, perhaps, thirty very prominent songs, that did not take in the writing and composing more than three quarters of an hour each."
"Upon this mode of calculation, giving the most extensive allowance of time for these songs, which from the nature of their subjects, and manner of treating them, required longer consideration, a circumstance, by the way, that always incurs the risk of coldness and formality, no one of my entertainments has taken me more than a month in perfecting it; and, therefore as I have already mentioned that I do something every day, the mystery will be easily solved how I have fabricated so much; which fact, as it has been generally considered to consist of more than any one man could accomplish, has generated the idea that, like eminent engravers, I permit my name to what does not belong to me."
Of the numerous songs which have flowed with such rapidity from Mr. Dibdin's facetious pericranium, we shall record two or three specimens:
BALLAD.
'At a jovial meeting of gods once on high, Ere Bacchus was hatch'd from old Jupiter's thigh, This one told his story, and that sung his song, And did what he could least the time should seem long. Apollo read verses, the Grace w/earth'd flowers, The Muses of harmony sung forth the powers. Bully Mars crack'd his joke, and sly Monnus his jest; Yet their mirth wanted something to give it a zest.'
'Says Jove, our assembly to-day's pretty full, Yet, I don't know how 'tis we are horribly dull; We have all the ingredients that mirth should inspire, But some clay born alloy damps our heavenly fire. I have it—in this I'll a mixture enclose Of all the delight whence good fellowship flows, And we'll taste of its produce for mirth's bad at best, When there's any thing wanting to give it a zest.'
'So saying, so doing, he buried the shrine, Which quickly sprung up in the form of a vine, The leaves broad and verdant, the fruit deepest blue, Whence a juice flow'd that health, love or youth might renew. Its influence to feel, they came round it in swarms; Mars took draughts of courage, and Venus drank charms; Momus swallow'd bon mots, Cupid love—so the rest, While Jove spurning nectar, cry'd—'This is the zest.'
BALLAD.
'Be it known to all those whomsoe'er it regards, That we singers of ballads were always call'd bards; And from Ida to Grub-street the muses who follow Are each mother's son the true spawn of Apollo; Thus recording great men, or a flea, or a star, Or the spheres, or a Jew's harp, we're all on a par; Nor in this do I tell you a word of a lie, For Homer sung ballads and so do I.'
'Don't you know what the ancients were!—great things they talk'd How they rode upon Pegasus—that's to say, walk'd— That near kindred gods they drove Phoebus's chariot, The English of which is—they liv'd in a garret. And thus they went forward, Diogenes quaff'd, Heraclitus cry'd, & Democritus laugh'd, Menander made multitudes both laugh and cry, But Homer sung ballads and so do I.'
'Thus did they strange whimsical notions pursue, Some argued on one leg, and some upon two, To which last my pretensions are not hypothetical For it is certainly clear I'm a peripatetic. Lycurgus and Solon 'bout laws made a pother,'
Which went in at one ear and then out at t'other, Old songs, such as mine are, will nobody buy?
Come, Homer sung ballads and so do I.'
'Hisoric was Pliny, and Plato Divine, Ovid wrote about love, and Anacreon wine, Great Cicero argued to every man's palate, And when he was out—'twas a hole in the ballad. Thus to great men of old who have made such a rout, My claim to call cousin I've fairly made out, And if any hereafter my right should deny, Tell 'em Homer sung ballads and so do I.'
So many of the most attractive of Mr. Dibdin's compositions, and especially his sea songs, have become generally known, that we must not indulge ourselves in copying them. Though these sea songs have been so numerous, he complains that they have not procured him a single public compliment from the Navy, and that his place of performance has not been chosen as the scene of any acclamation for naval victories. It would have afforded us real satisfaction to have found the scene of Mr. D's fortune brightened towards the conclusion of his work; but, though he takes his leave of the reader, satisfied with the review of the past, he does not yet appear to have obtained a comfortable independence for the future.
'I have now brought up to this present hour the most material circumstances of my professional life. I believe it will be unnecessary to say, that I have neither exaggerated nor extenuated in any one instance; and had I penetrated the mind of any other man, I am truly conscious that I could not have delineated the motives of his conduct with more fidelity and impartiality than I have done my own. As to envy and rancour, if I am acquainted with myself at all, I am a total stranger to any such passions. I know too well the comfort of content to enter the lists a disputant upon any subject, and I should not have volunteered myself in any instance were it not that, as the world seems to know but little either of my pretensions or my character, I conceived it a fair thing to bare the truth to view, rather than be subject to a refutation of falsity, or an explanation of misconception.'
'In speaking of myself I have used no ceremony, nor resorted to any subterfuge or reserve. In speaking of others, I have barely taken sufficient facts to bear out my charge, and have disdained either to feel or manifest anything harsh and invidious. Upon the whole, I think my reputation will suffer in no respect from this publication; which, whatever it may be in point of value, really without being facetious, exceeds considerably in point of quantity for the money, any thing that ever was produced; for, only reckoning the songs at a half-penny a piece, and the prints at three-pence, the narrative and the portrait are given in, as the market-people call it, by way of a blessing.'
'As to my future prospects, sincerely as I wish to have done with the world and its bustle, I am afraid I shall not find complete retirement so easy to accomplish as my hopes had flattered me; not, however, from any other want of means than the possession of a large stock, and the necessity of refreshing it with novelty to preserve it in some degree from stagnation. Whatever course I may find it expedient to take, I think I may venture to pronounce that, in spite of human frailty, I shall never swerve, either publicly or privately from that independency of mind that I have made it my pride and happiness to adopt, adhering to the sentiments of my own song which I wrote when I was in possession of fewer worldly comforts:
Happy in honors, power and wealth, If fate but grant my fond desire; A blameless heart, unshaken health, My friends, my bottle, and my lyre.'
According to Mr. D's statement, the four volumes containing his professional life form a cheap publication, and we hope that the sons of mirth and glee will justify his calculation. Several inaccuracies occur, which will be apparent to discerning readers.
From the Richmond Enquirer.
CREEK INDIANS.
During the present week we have had the company of colonel Benjamin Hawkins, principal superintendent of Indian affairs in the southern department, an interpreter and six Indian chiefs of the Creek nation. They arrived in this city on Tuesday evening, and left it yesterday morning for the city of Washington. Colonel Hawkins was extremely anxious to continue his route, having been particularly instructed by the President to arrive at Washington by the 8th inst. or as soon as possible.
The present deputation has been invited to the seat of government to hold a talk for re-organising the treaty made last year, by which they ceded to the United States that tract of land in the state of Georgia, which lies within the forks of the Oconee and Oakmulgee rivers. By the articles of agreement and cession entered into on the 24th April, 1802, between Georgia and the United States, the United States agreed to extinguish at their own expense and for the use of Georgia, the Indian title to this tract, as a compensation in part for the Yazoo empire. It was with great reluctance that the Creek nation consented to sell their right to this soil, but when the treaty was brought before the senate, for their ratification, it was rejected on account of the high price of the land. The administration, we presume is now attempting to extinguish the Indian title on more favorable terms.
The principal man of this deputation is the third chief in the nation. The Creeks have three of those head men, whom they call chiefs or speakers. When the first chief is absent on a hunting or a war party, the second commands in his place: when both these are absent, the third chief of the tribe assumes the command. These chiefs preside over the great council of the nation, to which are referred the most important measures: the forming of the laws and the making of peace or war. In the Creek nation this deliberate council amounts to about 400. When the question before them relates to hostilities, they summon to their aid the bravest warriors of their tribe. If they express a great anxiety for their measure, the council draws back, being anxious to throw all the responsibility on them. If they manifest any indifference or opposition to it, the council generally assume a more spirited attitude. In this great council the question is debated until the affair is settled to every one's apparent satisfaction: no man peremptorily adhering to his own opinion, but each giving way and modifying his own, so as to come nearer to the sentiments of the rest. The cessation of the debate becomes the signal of unanimity. No vote is taken in form among them; there is no numbering of the yeas and the nays; but the chief simply pronounces in an interrogative tone of voice: "You are agreed then upon this measure?" If it be on a question of war, the principal warrior addresses the chief and demands: "Is it war?" The speaker answers, "it is war"—at that moment the warrior lifts up the tomahawk, and the question is supposed to be irrevocably decided.
The Creeks have five men among them, who may be regarded as the historical and legal libraries of the tribe. It is their office to collect and transmit to successive generations their history, antiquities and laws. At their annual festival these men step forward to describe the different events which have happened to their nation, from the earliest traditions down to the present time. These imperfect records are thus disseminated every year among the whole tribe. When the great council of the nation is in session, these learned traditionaries attend for the purpose of preserving their decisions. They sit by during the debate, indifferent to the reasons and arguments of the speakers, which they are not expected to record; until the chief comes to pronounce the decision and so great is their accuracy that, according to Col. Hawkins, they preserve the decision in the very words of the President.
The 3d chief who is now with the deputation under the name of Cunnell, is represented by col. Hawkins, as by far the most eloquent man in the Creek nation. He is smaller than the ordinary standard of his tribe, but equally erect in his deportment. Being descended from a white father, he has lost most of the distinguished characteristics of an Indian; the copper complexion; high cheek bones, and thick lips. He speaks English with some ease, but his own language with considerable fluency. We were present at one of the talks which he delivered to his companions, and our own observations confirmed the eulogium of Colonel Hawkins. He delivered himself, with such graceful gesture, sweetness of tone, and animation of countenance, as could not fail to please the spectator, though he was ignorant of the subject of his harangue. In one indispensable attribute of an orator, he appeared eminently skilled. He had none of those tremulous feelings of embarrassment or a desire for applause, which generally call off the attention of the Speaker from the subject to the spectator. Apparently unaffected by the company who surround him, he passed strait on towards the point, which he was seeking; and upon that, he concentrated the whole energy of his mind. It was a maxim which Cunnell seemed to have thoroughly understood; that no man can command the feelings of another, who is not master of his own.
The subject of this harangue was indeed enough to kindle the eloquence of the untutored orator. He and his companions had just returned from a visit to the Capitol, the Armoury, the canal, and he took that opportunity of expressing

ing the feelings of his own mind, and of exciting theirs. He told them that a few years since, when he was here with captain McWilliams, he had left this place a small village. He now found it a rich and flourishing city, with an admirable canal and an armoury for furnishing the people with the means of defence. During the war with Great Britain, he said, we had been much in want of arms, though even then we had fought so bravely; and now we had established a manufactory, for supplying every soldier in the state with a musket. To what he asked was this great contrast to be ascribed, which a few years had produced in the appearance of the city? It was to the enlightened genius and the industry and the civilization of the inhabitants. Could they not profit by this lesson? Could they not do as we did, and be as rich in the instruments of war and the materials of defence?
The Creek nation has already made some advances in this career of improvement. Colonel Hawkins, to whom so much praise cannot be given for his humanity and zeal, has now introduced among them the plough, the wheel and the loom. He has recalled them in some measure from their warlike and predatory life of hunting to the more productive pursuit of agriculture. They now raise a little wheat and a good deal of Indian corn, which they make into meal by pounding it in mortars. The superintendent has however set them the example of abridging the labor of the process, by employing handmills and even erecting a small water mill. Domestic animals have been introduced among them, but none except the cow have been widely diffused. They frequently make butter, and sometimes cheese, of which colonel Hawkins received during the last year from one Indian woman not less than 170 lbs; they have not attained the art of tanning leather, though the superintendent has now established some vats for his own use and for their imitation. The manufactures of the Creek nation cannot be expected to have attained any great proficiency. They raise cotton and weave it into shirts and other clothing. We saw around the leg of the Indian chief, a garter manufactured from wool of a variegated colour, and a firm uniform texture.
It is the opinion of colonel Hawkins that the population of the Creek nation was every day becoming less under their ancient regime. The change in the manner of their living has contributed, he thinks, to arrest this depopulation of their country. Their numbers are stationary at present, and he thinks they can bring into the field about 4,000 warriors.
But this important revolution in their pursuits has not only contributed to increase their population, but what is still more desirable, the sensibility of their nature and the refinement of their manners. The females in particular may boast of the blessings of this auspicious revolution. They are now beginning to enter that second grade, which nations civilized in their manners, but not universally enlightened in their own opinions, uniformly exhibit; when from being the beasts of burthen, they become the luxuries and the idols of men. We hope there is yet a third gradation in their destiny, which the polished Virginian, as well as the untutored Creek, may hereafter ascend to.
FROM THE RALEIGH REGISTER. MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY.
The following letter from his Excellency Governor Williams to one of his friends in Rockingham county, in this State, furnishes, perhaps, a more correct account of the above territory, than any thing heretofore published. It is from this consideration, and from an opinion that such a description of the country would be generally acceptable, that we have been favored with a copy of this letter for publication.
TOWN OF WASHINGTON, MISS. TER. July 30th, 1805.
“DEAR SIR, It is true I have written to you but once since my arrival in this country, but you and my other friends are assured it has not been for the want of a disposition to do so, but because I have not had time. My double duty (for I am directed by the Government to continue as Commissioner) takes all my time, and more than a man ought to appropriate to business. However being so unexpectedly detained from my family and domestic concerns, to which I am so anxious to return, the delay can only be rendered tolerable, by being constantly employed in business.
I am sorry to hear of the scarcity in your quarter, and the United States generally; as you very justly suppose nothing of that kind can take place on the banks of the Mississippi, the vast extent of country through which it flows, and the variety of climes it embraces, will always make its banks overflow with milk and honey, and not with muddy water alone, as is supposed by some in the States.
To undertake a description of the quantity and kind of produce which flowed down the river last spring, might excite incredulity, as it does wonder in those who behold it. To see this King of Rivers about the first of June, when it begins to mount its banks and roll along in majestic silence; its surface almost covered with boats and vessels, from the canoe to the ship of four hundred tons, built three thousand miles up it, carrying all kinds of produce and live stock, affords a scene only to be equalled by itself: yet, to a calculat-
ing mind what is this to that which a few more years will effect? As to the fertility of the lands here it is indescribable. I will only state that the average calculation of the planters here is, three hundred dollars per annum each hand they work, clear of all expenses; many make four and five,—such a man for instance as Mr.—would make five hundred dollars for every able hand.
Negro fellows in this country hire for from 150 to 200 dollars per year. The brokenness of the lands here is considered an advantage. In the first place it contributes to health, and secondly it preserves the range.—Were it all level, it would be settled up so thick as to destroy the range entirely, as is the case in Kentucky and great part of Tennessee. But those rich hills which can't be settled or cultivated, will always afford good range. There is no feeding of stock in this country in the winter, except such as are used.
As to the healthiness of this country, sir, I will venture an opinion founded on experience and observation: This is as healthy as any country I ever was in, if you keep clear of the swamps, when you know in all countries are sickly. Conclude for yourself, of a country so broken generally as the lands on Logan's Creek (but as rich as the Nile and entirely covered with cane) and well watered. You see in this country, as much old age and as many grey hairs, as much corpulency, and as many red cheeks, as in any other. It is true great numbers come to this country and die here; but who are they, and how do they come? They are boat-men who have been two or three months on the river. How such characters live need not be described to you. When they arrive, most of them at once go into all the luxuries and dissipation, which the cities do and always will afford, the effects of which prove fatal to most of them who are thus improvident. This has given this country the character of being sickly.
This climate is very agreeable in the summer, and in the winter delightful. I have never been so sensible of the heat here as in N. Carolina or Pennsylvania; there the nights are frequently more distressingly hot than the days—here it is the reverse. There have been very few nights this summer in which a blanket covering was disagreeable before day. It is said that some days last week were as hot as is common in this country, and the Thermometer was not above 94.
As to politics, I suppose you cannot expect much from me on that score, you living more in the way of such things than myself. I will only say for our little quarter, it will be very soon more quiet and settled than ever, and that too with general satisfaction; except with Cato West and his small party, who have attempted to embarrass my administration, but all to no effect. They have heretofore assumed the name of Republicans, and for a while perhaps imposed themselves on the general administration as such; but I call them perfect Jacobins, and those of the worst kind, for taken collectively as a party, they are both ignorant and vile.
The people in this country are generally well disposed to the present administration, and those measures so generally approved by the nation at large.—All they want is a chance to evince their attachment to a just administration. But the man at the head of affairs here, who affords it, and who makes qualification for office, and not political dogmas or creeds his guide, will and must expect to receive all the vengeance of this West faction , as I have done. But it has had but one effect, that is, to give themselves a Luciferian fall .
My best respects and any information this letter may contain to Mr.—and the rest of your neighbors, for I have not time to write another letter now to any of them.
I am with usual Sentiments of respect, Yours, &c. ROBT. WILLIAMS.”
Numerous reports tend to confirm the apprehensions of war upon the continent of Europe. The history proceeds only to warlike preparations, but not to any acts of hostility. In France the destination of troops is given; but no consequent events. The military arrangements of Austria were announced. The disposition of Bavaria to avoid the war, was believed. Every thing excited alarm, but nothing had amounted to a declaration of war. The late statistical history of France, published by Herbin, will exhibit the probable population of that empire. Mirabeau the elder, in 1754, gave the population of France at 18 millions. The Abbe d'Expilly, in 1772, gave it at 22 millions, when Buffon gave it at 21 millions. M. Neckar, in 1785, gave it at 24 millions, and Bouquet Desbrosses, in 1789, reported 27 millions. In 1791, the committee of the assembly reported it the first time at 28 millions, but at the second at 26 millions. M. Brong published in 1797 the actual population, including Corsica, at 31 millions. Of these, 26 millions were on the ancient domain of France, above 3 millions were on the re-united provinces, and 1 & 1-2 on the countries between the Rhine and Moselle. In 1798, De Pere reported to the council 33 millions, including 28 millions on the territory of France, 3 millions on the re-united provinces, 33 thousand on the territory of Geneva, and one and a half million in the departments on the left bank of the Rhine. The returns by the prefects in August, 1802, gives the general population at 33 millions, but this population was increased nearly 2 millions by the re-union of Piedmont and island of Elba, in September, 1802. This num-
ber is judged not far from truth, especially if we employ the large numbers and omit the fractions. If to this population we add that of Holland and of Italy, and the countries in which the French have control, we shall find a vast power in the present state of the French empire. When the population of France was given at 26 millions, above 20 millions were considered as inhabitants of the country, and above 5 millions in the cities. Des Brosses, in his work on the wealth of France, adds above one million to the above amount of the population, and gives above 7 millions to the cities, so that the population of the country to the cities is about 3 to 1. The great Lavoisier divides the population of France into the following classes:—Population of large towns, not including cultivators at 8 millions; workmen 6 millions; laborers in agriculture 4 millions; vintagers at 1 million and 7-10ths. Proprietors of vineyards 800,000; shopkeepers, &c. at the charge of agriculture, 1 million and 8-10ths. Proprietors living on the produce of their estates, 450,000. In the class of sailors, manufacturers, nobles, ecclesiastics, &c. only 50,000 short of 2 millions, and the French army at 250,000; giving in all 25 millions. This gives the city population as 8 to 17.
Salem Reg.
LITERARY NOTICES.
Several new works have been lately issued from the Parisian press. Among others, an Historical Essay on the Commerce and Navigation of the Black Sea, or a Narrative of a Voyage undertaken for the purpose of establishing Commercial relations between the ports of the Black Sea, and those of the Mediterranean, with a Map on which is traced the interior navigation of Russia (in Europe) and antient Poland; a general outline of Europe itself, shewing the common course of Russian vessels from the Baltic and the Black Sea, to the ports of the Mediterranean; and lastly a sketch of the cataracts of the Niaper. 1 vol. octavo.—By St. Aubin.
This work has the singular good fortune to be written by a man, who, to a practical knowledge in commercial affairs, has been able to avail himself of every advantage which his mission, undertaken for the purpose of establishing commercial intercourse between the Russian ports and in the Black Sea, and the ports of France in the Mediterranean) under the patronage of the ambassador, the Count de St. Priest in the late king's time, must necessarily have presented. Add to which, the author before this had resided for a period of ten years in Constantinople, and that from his acquaintance with the trade of the Black Sea, he had himself established a commercial house at Cherson.
Another most useful, and, as appears by the prospectus, a very ably compiled work has also been recently published in Paris. It is entitled, A compendious, Geographical, Historical, Political and Statistical Dictionary of France, containing every thing relative to the country, its population, minerals, hydrography, commerce and productions; a genealogy of its kings, with an account of its customs, ancient and modern; civil military, and ecclesiastical establishments; the origin and value of the different French coins as well as those of the conquered countries; the old and new weights and measures; one hundred and fifty comparative tables of France, under the monarchy, with her actual situation; lives of her celebrated men for some centuries back to the present day, and a catalogue of the works published by them; a history of her sieges and battles, the places where they were fought, with the names of the commanders; the countries conquered and united to France; and lastly, an account of the colonies, and of the three duchies of Parma, Piacentia and Guastalla, with a map of the whole country; by a society of men of letters. 5 vols. in quarto, three columns, long primer type.
AURORA.
COMMUNICATION.
Review at Johnstown.
Saturday the 12th October being the day appointed for a review and inspection of regiment under the command of lieut. colonel Ten Broeck in general Livingston's brigade, the lieut. colonel transmitted to the honorable R. R. Livingston the following letter:
Clermont, 9th October, 1805.
SIR, The officers of the regiment of militia commanded by lieut. colonel Ten Broeck, wishing to pay their respects to you, to congratulate you on your safe return to your native country, and to express the high opinion they have of the success of your late mission by which an extensive and valuable territory is added to the United States, and the prospect of permanent peace established, which merits the gratitude of your country and which it is hoped will not be forgotten—the favor of your company is requested at the regimental review at Johnstown on Saturday the 12th inst. If agreeable to you, an escort of the troop of horse commanded by captain Livingston, will wait on you at Gale's tavern in Clermont at 10 o'clock that day, to the place of parade.
I have the honor to be, sir, Your humble servant, SAMUEL TEN BROECK. To the honorable R. R. Livingston, esq. 3
To which letter Mr. Livingston returned the following answer:
Clermont, 11th October, 1805.
SIR, I have just now been favored by your letter of the 9th inst. I accept with pleasure your polite invitation, and that of the officers of the regiment you command. I pray you and them to receive my thanks for your friendly congratulations on my return to my native country, and for the flattering manner in which you speak of the share I have had (in conjunction with my very worthy colleague) in effecting a very important object entrusted to us by the administration of our country. Accept, sir, for yourself and the officers of your regiment, the assurance of my respect and esteem.
ROBERT R. LIVINGSTON. Col. Ten Broeck.
ENGLISH MANNERS.
SPORTING INTELLIGENCE.
YORK, AUG. 24. MRS. THORNTON'S MATCHES.
In consequence of Mr. Bromford's declining to ride, Mrs. Thornton walked, or rather cantered, in a most excellent style, over the course, accompanied by colonel Thornton, agreeably to the terms of the match, for four hogsheads of Cotti Roti, 2000gs. h. st. and for 600gs. pp. bet by Mrs. Thornton.
Afterwards commenced a match, in which the above lady was to ride two miles against Mr. Buckle, the Jockey, well known at Newmarket and other places of sport, as a rider of the first celebrity. Mrs. Thornton appeared dressed for the contest, in a purple cap and waistcoat, nankeen colored skirts, purple shoes, and embroidered stockings; she was every way in health and spirits, and seemed eager for the decision of the match. Mr. Buckle was dressed in a blue cap, with blue bodied jacket and white sleeves. Mrs. Thornton carried 9st. 6lb. and Mr. Buckle, 13st. At half past three they started: Mrs. Thornton took the lead, which she kept for some time; Mr. Buckle then put in trial his jockeyship, and passed the lady, which he kept for only a few lengths when Mrs. Thornton, by the most excellent, we may truly say—horsemanship—pushed forwards, and came in a style far superior to any thing of the kind we ever witnessed, gaining her race by half a neck. The manner of Mrs. Thornton's riding is certainly of the first description; indeed her close seat and perfect management of her horse, her bold and steady jockeyship, amazed one of the most crowded courses we have for a long time witnessed; and on her winning, she was hailed with the most reiterated shouts of congratulation.
Mrs. Thornton rode Louisa, sister to Kill-Devil, by Pegasus, out of Nelly. Mr. Buckle rode Allegro, by Pegasus, out of Allegri's dam.
We have authority to state, that it was much against Mrs. Thornton's inclination to ride over the course for the match, had she not been obliged to do so, agreeable to the conditions of the articles with Mr. Bromford.
FROM AN ENGLISH PAPER.
Model of an Impregnable Castle.
Mr. Gillespie has invented a model for a covered battery, which is intended for guarding the coasts of the United kingdom. It is upon a moveable principle, and carries only one gun (a 48 pounder,) which can be directed in a moment to any one given point. This gun can be elevated or lowered by the most simple machinery, and having a tube at the top parallel to its axis, it may be brought to take surer aim than by the mode now in use. The mechanism is so wonderfully ingenious, that it is calculated to turn the most ponderous mortars or guns of any calibre with the greatest ease, and the whole can be worked by five men, who remain inside the battery in perfect safety. It is so constructed, that it resists the most powerful engines used in the besieging of towns, &c. This wonderful invention has excited the admiration of all who have seen it. The board of ordnance have borne testimony of its merit. Mr. Pitt, sir Sydney Smith, sir Thomas Trollope, gen. Debbieg, are among its admirers. This impregnable castle resembles in shape a polygon moving round an inclined plane, so as always to present an acute angle to the point of attack. It is intended to be completely bomb proof, by being lined on the outside with iron, from two or four inches in thickness, which would render it impregnable to any shot, if even taken in a flank direction, which never presents itself, the sides of the battery being an inclined plane. The door or entrance consequently is in the back part of it. The inventor, we hear, has been for some time in treaty with government. He has had the warmest support from colonel Crawford and Sydney Smith. The idea of the late experiment was taken from Mr. Gillespie's floating battery.
RAGS.
The highest price, in Cash or Books will be given for any quantity of clean Linen and Cotton Rags, by Rapine Conrad and Co. Capitol Hill. June 24
IMPERIAL DECREES.
JACQUES I. Emperor of Hayti, Commander in chief of the armies, by the grace of God and the constitutional law of the state:
Desirous to dispense equally and without distinction the favors of the government, and to secure to the authorised consignees (and this without respect to private interests or particular privileges) the benefits resulting from the imperial decree of August 1, present year:
DECREE as follows, to be executed throughout the whole extent of the empire:—
ART. 1. All authorised commercial houses for receiving consignments, shall have and exercise equal and similar rights, agreeably to the favor granted by the above mentioned law.
2. Consequently, according to the principle of the preceding article, each consignee shall be permitted, in his turn, and following the order of the number affixed to his commission, to sell and have the responsibility of foreign vessels.
3. This distribution shall be calculated so that no authorised consignee, however favored, or whatever his claims, shall receive a number of vessels exceeding those received by other consignees.
4. According to the preceding article, each merchant already commissioned, is required to present his patent to the Secretary General of Government, who will impart to it the requisite formalities.
Done at the Imperial Palace, Sept. 6.
IMPERIAL DECREES.
JACQUES I. Emperor of Hayti, Commander in Chief of the army, by the grace of God and the constitutional law of the state.
Desirous of restraining the frequent abuses in the receipt of the duties of importation and exportation, as also in the receipt of the tax of one fourth, levied on the territorial produce:
Considering the necessity of restricting the exportation of specie to foreign countries:
Considering, moreover, the necessity of inflicting upon fraudulent speculators and public dilapidators, punishments commensurate with the crimes they commit:
DECREE as follows, to be carried into effect throughout the whole extent of the empire:
ART. 1. Every vessel which shall be discovered trespassing against the laws, either as it relates to the duties of importation or of exportation, shall, together with her cargo, be confiscated for the benefit of the state.
2. When a vessel shall be suspected of fraud, the armed force shall be called upon by the administrator of the place, who, assisted by the collector of the custom house, and in presence of the comptroller and the commandant of the place, shall proceed to the unloading and examination thereof in the strictest manner; a proces verbal of which shall be drawn up, and immediately forwarded to the minister of finances.
3. Every collector of a place in which a vessel shall be seized for fraud either on account of the duties of importation or of exportation, shall be deprived of his property, and punished with the utmost rigor of the law.
4. Every authorised mercantile house receiving consignments, is bound to make known to the administrator of the place, before the vessel consigned to it be permitted to sail, the amount of the sale of her cargo in produce, and the surplus of the specie which it has not been able to convert into produce, shall be deposited in the Treasury; a receipt for the amount thereof shall be given by the said administrator, payable in the produce of the place, at the current prices, and to the order of the bearer.
5. The consignees shall be required to produce (in addition to the statement of duties made out by the collector upon the cargo of each vessel) the permits for the sale thereof, which shall be deposited in the office of the administrator.
6. Every foreign vessel shall be required, within 24 hours after her arrival in any port, to declare her intention of disposing of the cargo there, or of sailing to another port.
7. Every individual who shall be convicted of having purchased goods without receiving a regular permit therewith, shall be imprisoned 6 months, and his property confiscated.
8. Every holder of a permit to dispose of his goods, is required to deposit it in the Revenue office ( bureau des demains ); a quantity of new permits, proportionate to the amount of goods he may have on hand, shall be delivered to him.
9. Every Haytian, of whatever rank or proportion he may be, who shall be convicted of having sold produce before having paid the rent of his farm, the impost of one fourth, and the proportion receivable by the cultivators, shall be prosecuted criminally.
10. Every one renting or owning a farm, shall be obliged to carry the amount of the one fourth belonging to the cultivators, to the officer of the justice of the peace, to be then divided among them in his presence, and in that of the commandant of the place, who shall both certify the account sales of the said farmers or proprietors.
Done at the Imperial Palace, Gonaives, 23d September, 1805.
DESSALINES.

WASHINGTON CITY.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8.
We state, with pleasure, the formation of an Agricultural Society at Easton for the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Each member is to pay the annual sum of two dollars, which is to constitute a fund for defraying the publications and other expenses of the Society, and for medals and premiums. There is not a county in the state of Maryland that ought not to follow this laudable example. We would suggest the propriety of connecting with all such associations an agricultural library.
The contents of every mail we receive are charged with sentiments of indignation at the unjust treatment of our merchants and seamen by the belligerent European powers. Without any pretext whatever, their ships of war are permitted, with lawless violence, to seize the property of the honest trader, insult is frequently added to injury, and the civil authority, in numerous instances, justifies these outrages by a condemnation of ship and cargo. It is not surprising that a nation, whose rights are thus trampled upon, should demand redress; and such is the force of public opinion, that we believe the period is approaching when this redress will be had, or those, of whom it is fruitlessly claimed, will be made to pay the cost. That governments whose vital interests depend upon a good understanding with us, nations whose colonies are entirely at our mercy, and whose manufactures we can any moment paralyse, should be thus blind to their interests is matter of supreme astonishment to us. But to them it cannot be surprising if in the just promotion of our interests against lawless violence and meditated wrongs, we should aim a fatal blow at theirs.
What would England say to an imposition of heavy duties on all her manufactured fabrics, the want of which we could supply in other markets?—What would she say to refusing permission to any of her ships to enter our harbors?—What would she say to withholding all supplies from her islands? What would she say to an embargo?—What would she say to a prohibition of all intercourse?
These are awful considerations; but we venture to predict that they will occupy the serious deliberations of Congress at their ensuing session. We venture to predict that every representative from the east to the west, from the north to the south, will come armed with the resentment of his constituents against the invaders of our rights. The next is a new Congress. Its members may therefore be expected unequivocally to speak the language of the people. Pacific as is the disposition of America, it may be that the storm will burst before foreign nations are aware of it. But let them recollect that the thunder has long rolled at a distance; that they were long since warned of the danger of awakening the Lyon. Let them recollect that at the last session, on the 2nd of March, the following resolutions were adopted by the Senate.
“Resolved, That the secretary of state be directed to lay before this House, at the next meeting of Congress, such laws of Great Britain, as impose any higher or greater duties on the exportation of goods, wares, and merchandise to the United States, than are imposed on similar goods, wares, and merchandise, when exported to the nations of Europe; and also to report the amount in sterling money, of the exports to the United States, from Great Britain and Ireland, for the years 1802, 1803, and 1804, on which such duties are charged.
“Resolved, That the secretary of the treasury be directed to report to this house, at the next meeting of Congress, a statement, showing the value (agreeably to the prime cost) in sterling money, of Irish linens, and all other manufactures of linen, of sail dock, nails, hats, looking glasses, plated and glass wares, ribbons, silks of all kinds, printed linen and cotton; and the quantity of British salt and rum, imported into the United States, from Great Britain and her dependencies, during the years 1802, 1803, and 1804; and also the value of linens imported into the United States from all other foreign nations.”
During the ensuing session these reports will be made. Will they not furnish the materials for a just and honorable retaliation?
So comparatively invulnerable are the United States with foreign powers, and so numerous are the weak points of the latter, that it is difficult to say what species of redress it becomes our government to take, in case remonstrance shall be unavailing. Such, however, is the existing state of our foreign relations, that we think the subjects to which we have alluded, well worthy of the public attention, and in order to throw light on them, we shall from time to time submit several interesting documents which time has, perhaps, thrown into too deep an oblivion. They will generally speak for themselves without the aid of commentary.
Philadelphia, Nov. 5. Extract of a letter from Nassau, New Providence, dated 16th October.
“All American vessels, bound to enclose Ports with a cargo not the produce of the United States, will be liable to confiscation.”
CARLISLE, October 1. DICKINSON COLLEGE. A Commencement for conferring degrees was held in this college on Wednesday, the 25th inst. The exercises were performed in the Presbyterian Church, in the presence of a large and respectable audience, who appeared highly pleased with the several ingenious and lively specimens of oratory. After prayer, the following orations were delivered:
The Salutatory , in Latin, on the advantages of learning; by Mr. James Linn, of Cumberland county, Pennsylvania.
An oration on honor, by Mr. G. Buchanan, of York county.
An oration on liberty, by Mr. W. Barr, of Cumberland county.
An oration on the choice of a profession, by Mr. Stephen Duncan, of Carlisle. The degree of Bachelor of Arts was conferred on the following young gentlemen (who had now finished their course)—Stephen Duncan, William Barr, Geo. Buchanan, James Linn and Alexander Mahon: and the degree of Master of Arts on the Rev'd Robert Kennedy, the Rev'd Amos A. McGinley, the Rev'd Joseph Brady, Dr. William Steel (of Carlisle) and Mr. Jas. R. Black, student of law in the state of Delaware—all former graduates in this college.
The Valedictory was then delivered, in praise of public seminaries of learning and their generous patrons, by Mr. Alexander Mahon, of Cumberland county.
The whole was concluded with an appropriate address to the graduates, and prayer, by R. Davidson, D. D. President of the Faculty.
The commencement, it is expected, will be always held, in future, on the last Wednesday of September in every year. The proper time for students to enter college is immediately after the October vacation. Those who have carefully read the usual Latin & Greek classics, may then be admitted into the junior class, and, by pursuing the regular course, obtain a degree in two years.
Preparations are making for the college being opened on the 1st of November next, in the new and spacious edifice erected on the ruins of that which was burnt down in 1803. And in a short time, it is expected, all the students may be accommodated with boarding in the new building.
The price of tuition is 20 dollars per annum, and that of boarding about 100 dollars in private families. Few towns perhaps are favored with a greater degree of health, or hold out greater inducements to studious youth, who wish to enjoy the benefits of a liberal education.
The trustees are determined to do every thing in their power to put the institution in a flourishing condition; and they have the satisfaction with truth to say, that both the government and mode of tuition are not inferior to those of any other seminary with which they are acquainted.
MAMMOTH PEAR. Upon an accurate admeasurement of a pear, which was growing in Ipswich, on the 10th inst. it was found to be 17 inches in circumference lengthwise, 14 crosswise and 7 long. There was another on the same tree of nearly the same dimensions. The rest were of an uncommon size. What makes it still more remarkable, these pears were growing on clons, which were grafted four years ago into a small apple tree stock.
PUBLIC SALE.
Pursuant to a decree of the Court of Chancery, I will sell at public sale on Saturday the 30th inst. the following valuable property in the city of Washington.
All that Lot of ground, being part of square No. 74, adjoining the Six Buildings, upon which several frame buildings are erected, one of which is large and well calculated for an extensive wet or dry good store, and the others with a small expence may be made to suit a family. This valuable property has a front of 86 feet on Pennsylvania avenue, and 140 feet front on 21st street.
Also, Lots numbered 3, 4, 5, and 6, in square No. 38 the three first having a front of 48 feet 7 inches each, and the last 91 feet 1 inch, on Pennsylvania avenue; each lot is improved by a two story brick building intended for back buildings, but which may at an considerable expence, be rendered comfortable dwellings. A more particular description of those lots will be given on the day of sale, or at any time before, on application to me. Terms of sale to be for ready money, or money to be paid immediately upon the ratification of the sale by the Court of Chancery for the district of Columbia.
The sale to commence at half after 10 o'clock A. M. on the premises. JOSEPH FORREST, Trustee. November 8—tdof
FALL & WINTER GOODS.
JOHN COX HAS this day received a Large addition to his former supply of FALL and WINTER GOODS, which makes his assortment very complete. Most of his goods were bought on such terms as to enable him to offer them by piece or retail Lower than the regular importers can afford to sell at. George town, Oct. 18—NI&UGeptf
THEATRE.
TO MORROW EVENING, NOVEMBER 9. Will be presented a Comedy in three acts, called the FARM HOUSE: OR The Custom of the Manor. END OF THE PLAY The Comic Tale of Monsieur Tonson, by Mr. GREEN.
TO WHICH WILL BE ADDED THE Tale of Mystery; A MELO DRAMA. ADMITTANCE—Box one Dollar, Pitt three quarters of a Dollar.
Tickets to be had at Mr. McLaughlin's tavern, George-Town, at the office of the Washington Federalist, at the Theatre, and at A. & G. Way's Printing-Office. Doors to be opened at half past FIVE, and the performance to commence at half past SIX o'clock.
District of Columbia, Washington county, to wit:
Be it remembered that, on the 4th day of November 1805 John Cannon brought before me the subscriber a justice of the peace in and for the county aforesaid, a bay MARE about 4 years old, with a saddle and bridle on, the saddle newly fated, which mare he took up on the 31st of October 1805, as a stray. Given under my hand and seal this 4th day of November 1805 ROBERT ALEXANDER, (L. S.)
The owner of the above property is required to come forward to the subscriber near the Navy Yard, prove property, pay charges and take her away. JOHN CANNON. Nov 8 3t
Five Dollars Reward.
Stolen or Strayed from the Little FALLS of the Potomac on Saturday the 19th October, a dark bay HORSE, eight years old, 15 hands high, four built, a star in his forehead, his mane cut for the collar and bridle; has a strong bulky tail the end cut off, some saddle marks, branded with a horse shoe on his off buttock, not perceivable unless wet, a split in his near fore hoof. Whoever delivers the aforesaid horse to Wm. McNair at the Little Falls, or to the subscriber in George Town shall have the above reward, with reasonable charges. JOHN GLASCO. Nov. 8 - 3t
Rich Kanawha Bottom Lands FOR SALE OR EXCHANGE.
THE subscriber offers for sale, or exchange for Lands or other real property on the east side of Blue Ridge, about 7000 acres of rich bottom land on the Great Kanawha river, and on both sides thereof, opposite and below the mouth of Poketollico creek in the state of Virginia, 25 miles from Point Pleasant, the county town of Melfon county, and 12 miles from the county town of Kanawha county, and adjoining the lands of the late Gen. Washington. They were surveyed at the same time with these lands, viz. in the year 1772, and are held under the same titles, viz. old military rights which are unquestionable. The Lands are of the very first quality, the bottoms in many places a mile wide. The have been lately resurveyed and divided into lots containing from 150 to 350 acres each, for the accommodation of purchasers, each Lot fronting on the river, and extending back from thence to the hills, which afford a most extensive range for stock, which can never be interrupted. 100 acres therefore of this rich bottom with its advantages would make a good settlement. The great Virginia state road leading to the states of Ohio and Kentucky, passes by and through these lands, which being on a line navigable river will command a ready and a high price for the produce to the emigrants to the western countries both by land and water. Their situation besides gives their occupants choice of the eastern or western markets as produce or stock may be found most profitable. The climate is mild and remarkably favorable to the production of fruit. Salt works are erected on the banks of the river but a few miles above these lands, and the neighborhood furnishes abundance of iron, coal, limestone, mills and mill seats—so that there is no part of the western country which holds out more advantages to persons desirous of emigrating. A more particular description of these lands, with plots of the several lots, their situation, description and price may be had by application in Alexandria, to Mr. Wm. CRAIK who attended the surveying of them, or to the subscriber. JAMES CRAIK. Sept. 11—w6w
None of these papers are more virulent and insidious than the Port Folio, and this is a favorable work with all loyalists.
TO RENT FOR ONE OR MORE YEARS,
A two Story Brick House, situated on Pennsylvania avenue nearly opposite the SIX BUILDINGS. There is a large garden attached thereto and a pump with excellent water in the yard. The house was constructed for the purpose of having a store in front, or to suit a mechanic, as well as to accommodate a family. It is an eligible place for business and the situation is remarkably healthy. The terms of rent will be moderate. For further information apply to Phineas Bradley near the premises or to the subscriber. REBECCA HODGSON. October 2—w6t
ELISA RIGGS,
Has imported by the ships Wm. Murdoch and Enterprise from London, and the United States, Newron, and Abcona from Liverpool, Eighty-nine PACKAGES of Seasonable Goods, which he bought of the manufacturers principally for cash, will be sold much lower by the piece or retail, than any not imported direct to this place, for cash or in exchange for tobacco.
Among them are, 9 Bales superfine, and second clothes and coatings, 29 do plains, kerseys, cottons and blankets, 8 do flannels, carpets and bookings, 10 trunks, clintzes, calicoes and hosiery, 5 do. cambric muslin and umbrellas, 8 cases London hats, 3 do. Ladies Waukefury bonnets, 1 trunk lace shades, black laces and veils, 1 case damask and diaper table cloths and ticking, 6 cases knives and forks, buttons, saddlery, seine twine, &c. 3 cases shirting cambrics, dimities and cotton counterpanes,
Also, Silk hosiery, Chambray muslin, Irish linens, Gloves, hatters trimmings, Silk shawls, furniture trimmings, and many other articles George Town, Oct. 30—tawtj3
100 Dollars Reward.
RAN AWAY from the subscriber on the night of the 21st inst two negro fellows Gerard and Peter—Gerard is about 22 years of age, 5 feet 10 inches high, complexion not very dark, has very thick lips, floops in his walk, is remarkably knockkned, and his angles are very large, and have the appearance of being much swollen—he is by trade a black-smith, and extremely awkward at any other work. Peter is about the same age, about 6 feet high, complexion rather light, long wool, walks very erect, is a very plausible fellow, and will no doubt endeavor to pass himself as a free man. The cloaths they wore and carried off are not known, but it is supposed they will appear better dressed than negroes commonly do, as they left all their common cloaths at home. If found out of the state, the above reward will be given, if found in the state 40 DOLLARS and if in the county 20 or one half for either. WILLIAM ALEXANDER. Prince William county, Vir. Nov. 6—tf.
Preparing for the Press
AND will be published early in the Spring, in one closely printed volume, The spirit of the Public Journals ; Being an impartial selection of the best original Poetry, Essays, &c. which have appeared in the newspapers of the United States during the year 1805. The Editors of Newspapers who exchange with the BALTIMORE Evening Post, are requested to give the above advertisement a few insertions in their papers. When published, a copy of the work will be sent to each office. Sept. 9—
NOTICE.
A Semi-Annual Fair will be held in the City of Washington on the first Wednesday in November next—and continue the Thursday and Friday following. Premiums will be distributed as usual. October 28.
FOR SALE,
A TWO STORY BRICK HOUSE and LOT in the city of Washington, situated on the Pennsylvania avenue near the Centre Market, and next door to Mr. Duane's book store, now rented to Mr. Solomon Myers for three years and occupied by him as a tavern. This property will be sold considerably below the first cost, and the payments made easy. For terms apply to the subscriber next door to Mr. Way's Printing Office. WILLIAM WOODWARD. September 18—sawtf
Valuable property for Sale.
THE subscriber being desirous of removing from this part of the country, will offer for sale, to the highest bidder, on Wednesday the 20th of November next, if fair, if not the next fair day, the plantation on which he resides. This property contains upwards of 500 acres of land, and is situated in the Forest of Prince George's county about four miles from Upper Marlborough and thirteen from the city of Washington upwards of 150 acres of the above is very valuable wood land, the balance arable, except about 30 acres of meadow, to which 15 or 20 more may be added at a small expence, remarkably level and equal for the production of tobacco, Indian corn, and small grain, to perhaps any land in the county. The improvements are a comfortable framed Dwelling house, sufficient for the accommodation of a large family, and every necessary out houses. Four good tobacco houses, overseers house, blacksmith's shop, all in good repair, an extensive garden and two wells of good water. A further description of the above valuable property is deemed unnecessary, as it is presumed that no one will bid for the same without previously viewing it. The terms of sale will be made known on the day of sale, and provided the proprietor can effect a satisfactory sale thereof, he will on the same day offer for sale a valuable personal property, consisting of negroes, flock of various kinds, household furniture, plantation utensils. The terms of sale for which will also be made known on the day of sale. CLEMENT BROOKE. Prince George county Maryland, September 20—w6t
HISTORY
Of the West Indies:
A WORK in the contents of which every citizen of America must be interested, whether devoted to business, or desirous of information through the medium of amusement.
A new & revised edition of Mr. EDWARDS's History of the West Indies, with a third volume, (completed by its amiable author a short time previous to his death) has lately been published in London. This third volume contains the interesting and important history, with a large Map of the Island of St. Domingo, or Hispaniola, as also that of Tobago; likewise a history of the war in the West Indies from its commencement in 1733 and a tour of Mr. William Young through several of the islands. It is accompanied by a highly finished portrait of Mr. Edwards, a history of his life written by himself, and a prefatory advertisement by Mr. William Young, Baronet, M. P. F. R. S. &c. under whose editorship it has been given to the public.
The subscriber, impressed with a sense of the great importance a general knowledge of the History, civil and commercial, of the West Indies, must be to every citizen of America, and of the great celebrity of the above work, proposes to print it by subscription, and respectfully offers the following for public patronage and encouragement.
Proposals for Printing,
From the London copy, 3 volumes quarto, THE HISTORY, CIVIL AND COMMERCIAL, Of the British Colonies in the West Indies. BY BRYAN EDWARDS, ESQ. F. R. S. A. S. Containing, with a variety of other matter:—
A political and topographical survey of the sugar islands. A comprehensive account of the ancient and present inhabitants, agriculture, productions, laws, government, constitution and commerce. An historical review of the slave trade; including observations on the character, genius, dispositions, and situations of the enslaved Africans. An historical review of St. Domingo, comprehending an account of the former government of the French part of that island, its political state, populations, productions, and exports; a narrative of the calamities which have desolated the island ever since the year 1739; and a detail of the transactions of the British army in that island. Also, a tour through the islands of Barbadoes, St. Vincent, Antigua, Tobago and Grenada, by Sir William Young, Baronet, &c. And A history of the war in the West Indies from its commencement in 1733, &c. &c.
CONDITIONS.
It will be printed in four volumes, large octavo, on a perfectly new and beautiful type, and on a handsome large medium paper, agreeable to a specimen, which may be had at the subscriber's Book Store.
The price to subscribers to be three dollars the volume, in boards; each volume to be paid for on delivery.
With the last volume will be given an ATLAS, (without any additional price) containing the following maps, viz.
1 A large general map of the West Indies. 2 Map of Jamaica. 3 Barbadoes. 4 Grenada. 5 St. Vincents. 6 Dominica. 7 St. Christophers. 8 Nevis. 9 Antigua. 10 Virgin islands. 11 St. Domingo, or Hispaniola. 12 Tobago.
To prevent disappointment or complaint, it is now promised, that on the publication of the second volume the subscription price will be advanced to three dollars and a half the volume, and on the publication of the last volume the price will be again enhanced.
With the last volume, besides the Atlas, will be given an elegant engraving of the celebrated author. Also a list of the subscribers names.
The London copy of the foregoing work in three volumes cannot be held in America, in boards, under sixty dollars. JAMES HUMPHREYS.
Subscriptions are received by said Humphreys at his book-store the corner of Second and Walnut streets, and by the principal Booksellers through the Union. Philadelphia, July 15—
ENTERTAINMENT
FOR Man and Horse.
THE subscriber takes this method to inform the public, and particularly those travelling to the City of Washington, that he has opened a house of entertainment opposite the Branch Bank of the United States, where travellers shall be well accommodated on the most reasonable terms. THOMAS THORPE. July 3—tawtf.

Ten Dollars Reward.
DESERTED from on board the United States frigate United States in ordinary, on the night of the 2nd inst. a negro man who calls himself DAVY MAN, about 5 feet 8 inches high and smooth face. Whoever will apprehend said negro and bring him to the Navy Yard, shall receive the above reward and reasonable expenses.
J. CASSIN.
November 6—3t
WASHINGTON TONTINE.
SUBSCRIBERS to this Institution who have not fixed the lives on which they choose their stock to depend, will please to take notice, that it cannot be done after the 31st day of December ensuing; the constitution providing, that after that day, there can be no changes or lives. Written directions on this subject, sent to the subscriber in season, will be duly attended to.
BEN: STODDERT.
October 16—ep/Dec.
Ten Dollars Reward.
WAS missed on Sunday, the 5th of May a double cased silver Watch, maker's name Crosswhite, Dublin, and in the outer case a silver watch paper with Mr. Park's name of Philadelphia. Whoever will bring the said watch to the office of the National Intelligencer, shall receive the above reward, and no questions will be asked.
May 10—tf
WILLIAM S. NICHOLLS,
HAS just received a large and handsome assortment of FALL & WINTER GOODS, consisting of Superfine Cloths and Cassimeres, Second do. Rose and Striped Blankets, Kersey and Halfhicks, Red, Blue and Green Bockings, Flannels, Baizes, Fancy Cords, Velvets and Velvetecens, Calicoes and Chintzes, White and Colored Cambrics, Bennetts Cord and Swandown Waifecozing, Durants and Callimancoes, Hosiery of every kind, Dimities, London Hats, Umbrellas, German and Irish Linens, India Muslins, Carpeting & Coatings, with many articles in the fancy line, which he will sell on the lowest terms for cash. George Town, Oct. 23—3w
On a liberal credit.
THE subscriber will dispose of at private sale, his estate called Chichester, lying on the eastern branch, immediately opposite the city of Washington. This tract of land containing 697 acres is laid off in lots from 83 to 144 acres for the convenience of purchasers. Plats of the estate and the terms of sale are in the hands of colonel Mason at the navy yard, and Charles Wayman of George Town. The lots will be shown by Mr. Wedden, living on the premises, near the Eastern Branch bridge.
ANTHONY ADDISON.
Barnaby, 12th June 1805—tf
STELLE'S HOTEL & CITY TAVERN.
THE Subscriber takes this method of thanking his friends and the public for their favors whilst on the Capitol Square and begs leave to acquaint them that having purchased and now occupying the tavern, late Tunnicliff's hotel, which he has commenced enlarging and improving—he respectfully solicits a continuance of the patronage of his friends and the public; assuring them that his full determination to fit up his present hotel, and to conduct it, as to merit, he hopes, the preference of the public travelling, as well as those coming to the permanent seat of the Government of our Land of Liberty.
PONTIUS D. STELLE.
Washington City, March 25—tf
WASHINGTON ACADEMY.
TWO PRINCIPAL TEACHERS are wanted in the Academy at the City of Washington, to be opened on the first Monday of January next. They must be qualified to teach reading, writing, the English and Latin languages, geography and the mathematics. Each Principal Teacher to receive five hundred dollars per annum, payable quarterly, for which he is to instruct such poor scholars as may be sent by the Board of Trustees, provided their whole instruction shall not exceed one hundred and twenty quarters in each year; & likewise to receive the entire amount of the tuition money for pay scholars at the rate of five dollars a quarter until the number amount to fifty, and beyond that number as shall be fixed by the Board. Out of this compensation he is to pay for necessary assistants, the rent of the school rooms, and other incidental expenses.
Applications will be received until the first Monday in December next at the City of Washington by WASHINGTON BOYD, Secretary of the Board of Trustees, or by
GABRIEL DUVAL, a committee SAMUEL H. SMITH, Saphanted for WILLIAM CRANCH, Sphuriose.
Editors friendly to the advancement of Education, are requested to insert the above advertisement a few times.
This day is published
AND FOR SALE BY RAPINE, CONRAD & Co. IN NEW JERSEY AVENUE, CAPITOL HILL. FLEETWOOD; Or the New Man of Feeling, BY WILLIAM GODWIN, Author of Caleb Williams, St. Leon, &c. &c. price 17 1/2 cents.
Sept. 25.
NOTICE to Delinquent Subscribers to the THEATRE.
ALL Subscribers to the Theatre, who have not made full payments on their shares, or contributed the materials and work promised, are hereby notified that unless the same be done on or before the first day of December next, their shares will be forfeited; after which day certificates of stock will be issued to those subscribers who have complied with the terms of subscription on application to the Directors.
ROBERT BRENT, WILLIAM BRENT, SAMUEL H. SMITH, } Directors.
Sept. 4 tf
To be Sold,
WILL be sold at public sale on the 16th day of December next, if fair, if not the next fair day, at the dwelling house of the late James Wiggins, of Calvert county, deceased, all the Stock, Furniture, Plate, and several valuable negroes, the property of the deceased. Cash for all sums not exceeding 20 dollars, and for all sums above that, a credit of six months will be given. Bonds with approved security will be required.
NATHL. T. WILMS, Adm'r.
October 25—epw&wdoj
PROPOSALS.
WILLING to engage the favor and patronage of a liberal public in general, as well as to obtain the approving voice of intelligent and delegated characters in the various parts of the Union, who are about speedily to convene at the National seat of Government, for the purpose of promoting extensive good and individual felicity, the subsequent proposals are, in the intermediate, respectfully submitted.
PROPOSALS
FOR PRINTING A PHILOSOPHIC WORK, Entitled THE NATURE & STATE OF MAN AS CONNECTED WITH THE WORLD, AND WITH DEITY, In the GOVERNMENT of the UNIVERSE.
What Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero of old, and other renowned characters of modern date have condescended to unfold only in part, is here freely investigated, and the contents of the volume offered may be said to embrace those interesting particulars, viz. Deity, the World, Man, Orders, simultaneous and successive evils, natural, moral, political and religious governments, free and despotic Laws and Religions, pure and spurious Revolutions, changes, causes and effects, as awfully manifested in the dynasty of the old world, and strikingly admonitory to the happy people of the new, who compose the large family of the great American Republic, and to whom this work is affectionately dedicated.
CONDITIONS.
 1. It shall be printed on the best paper, and with a good type, neatly bound and lettered, price ONE DOLLAR.  2. It shall be put to press with all convenient speed, and as soon as a prospect of remuneration can be ascertained from a generous public—The preface will give a review of the Author, and his motives for solicitation and encouragement; and though a small star in the republic of Letters, yet visible, and approximating to a more brilliant constellation, when the luminous sun of Truth and Light will arise in meridian lustre, and dispel the mist of error and the clouds of darkness.  ** Signatures will be received at the office of the National Intelligencer , the book stores in Washington, Georgetown and Alexandria, where printed proposals will be duly deposited.
WASHINGTON TONTINE.
THE Subscriber, appointed by the Directors, agent for the sale of lots belonging to this institution has opened an office for that purpose in the third house from the west end of the Six Buildings, where he will attend every day from 3 to 5 o'clock in the afternoon.
The Lots are generally situate between George Town and the President's Square, between that square and the Capitol, and about the Navy Yard, and amongst them there are some water lots, equal to any in the city. The terms of sale, cash, or short or long credit to suit purchasers; but in cases of credit, the punctilious payment of annual interest, and of the principal at the period stipulated must be well secured. If this be done to satisfaction, the purchasers may almost name their own time of credit.
JOSEPH FORREST.
October 16—td
District of Columbia, Washington County, to wit.
ON the petition of MARY BULL an insolvent debtor confined in the prison of Washington county for debt. Notice is hereby given to the creditors of the said Mary Bull, that on Monday the 11th November instant, at the court room in the Capitol—at 10 o'clock A. M. the oath prescribed by the act of Congress, entitled, "An act for the relief of insolvent debtors in the district of Columbia," will be administered to the said Mary Bull, and a trustee appointed unless sufficient cause be then and there shown to the contrary. It is ordered that this notice be published in the National Intelligencer three times prior to the said 11th instant. By order of the hon. W. Kilty. WM. BRENT, CLK.
Nov. 4—3t.
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 Bennet's cord, toilettes, fancy and white Marseilles, black and figured silk, moleskins, fancy silk, Marseilles, constitution cords, velvets, Genoa cord, silk and satin Florentecens, superfine coating, 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 style of fashion. New Jersey avenue near the Capitol, December 10—tf
PENNSYLVANIA HOUSE AND MYER'S CITY TAVERN.
THE Subscriber respectfully acquaints his friends and the public in general that he has removed from his old tavern stand, to the adjoining houses on the Pennsylvania avenue, lately occupied by Mrs. Wilson as a boarding-house, and Mr. Woodward's tavern, in which he is now opening a Complete Hotel. This stand is probably not excelled by any in the city, either for the accommodation of travellers or boarders; being at a convenient and almost equal distance from the Capitol, the President's House, and Public Offices; near the Theatre, Messrs. Way's Printing Office, and Centre Market, opposite the office of the National Intelligencer, and adjoining Mr. Duane's book store. These houses contain twenty-six lodging rooms with fire places, exclusive of dining, bar, assembly, and coffee rooms, servants apartments, &c. The celebrated ridge spring, is conveyed in pipes to the yard of this hotel, where it supplies the whole neighborhood with flowing, cool water, to which the general health of this part of the city has in a great measure been attributed. The finishing of the hotel now erected is considerable; more however will be completed before the meeting of Congress.
I now beg leave to inform my friends with confidence, that my prices shall be as heretofore, corresponding with Pennsylvania tavern rates, and in proportion as my elbow room has increased my disposition to please shall be enlarged: I therefore respectfully hope the continuance of a share of the public patronage.
SOLOMON MYER.
Washington, July 24—Independence the 30th year—tf
DISSOLUTION.
THE partnership heretofore existing in George Town, district of Columbia, between Polkinhorn and Hall, saddlers, was by mutual consent dissolved on the first instant—those who have any demands against the said firm, will present the same to Henry Polkinhorn for settlement, and those indebted are requested to make immediate payment to him, he being duly authorised to settle the affairs of the said firm.
HENRY POLKINHORN, WILLIAM HALL.
The business will be continued by the subscriber, who has on hand and will be constantly supplied with a general and extensive assortment of every article in the SADDLERY line, also Harness Trunks, &c.
HENRY POLKINHORN. October 7—1m
1500 DOLLARS REWARD.
HIGHWAY ROBBERY.
YESTERDAY about 11 o'clock in the forenoon, Mr. JOHN PETER, an Officer of the BANK OF COLUMBIA, was stopped on horseback on the road between this town and Alexandria, and within about 2 miles of the latter place, by some unknown villain, shot through the body with a pistol, and robbed of a sum of money in his possession belonging to this institution which he was taking to Alexandria, for the purpose of exchanging with the banks there.
The whole sum taken amounted Eighteen Thousand One Hundred and Fourteen Dollars and Sixty five Cents, made up in several packages, among which were,
   Dol. C     1 post note of the Bank of Virginia, for 800   1 do. of the same, for 500   1 do. of the same, for 500   1 do. of the same, for 450   1 do. of the Bank of Potomac in favor of Joseph Middle by him endorsed to Washington Bowie, dated 6 July, 1805. No 117 149 65  
A check of the Union Bank, on the Bank of Alexandria, drawn by R. Higginbotham, cashier, in favor of Greatham and Deversau, by them endorsed and by Benj. Stoddert, and C. Smith, seller.
There were also a parcel of post notes of the Bank of Alexandria for 100 dollars, and for 50 dollars, each. The remainder was in current notes, principally of the banks of Alexandria and Potomac, and some few of the Bank of Virginia of different sizes and denominations.
As the attack was sudden, and the wound received of a nature to deprive Mr. Peter instantly of his senses, (although it is now hoped he will recover) the description obtained may not be very accurate—As far as we are informed—the man who perpetrated the act, is of middle stature, good countenance, and had a genteel appearance. He had on a dark blue or black coat, nankin pantaloons, shoes, and a black hat, he was on foot and alone at the time, but may have had accomplices concealed, and will probably change his clothes.
FIVE HUNDRED DOLLARS will be given to any person or persons, who will detect and bring to conviction the robber; and ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS additional for the recovery of the whole of the money, or in proportion for any smaller sum recovered—should there be accomplices, and one of them make a discovery, so that it leads to the conviction of the robber, or to the recovery of the money he shall receive the above reward, and interest will be made to obtain his pardon.
WILLIAM WHANN, Cashier of the Bank of Columbia. George Town, July 31—
ONE THOUSAND ACRES OF VALUABLE LAND.
To be Sold at Public Sale on the 7th day of November next at Rabb's tavern Montgomery Court House 1000 acres of Land, part of Bradford's Rest—there is on the tract 200 acres of wood land—the rest is cleared, the whole well watered, the soil naturally fertile and favorable to tobacco, wheat, and corn, and admirably adapted to the use of Plaster—a considerable portion of meadow may be easily made; it is distant four miles from the Court House of Montgomery county and about 14 from the city of Washington. It will be sold a great bargain, one 4th of the purchase money down, the residue in three equal annual instalments with interest. The title is unquestionable, and a deed with general warranty will be given on payment of the purchase money. JOHN RONSEY PLATER. October 4—taw6w
Twenty Dollars Reward.
WILL be given for apprehending NIM, a small mulatto fellow, about 5 feet 4 inches and a half high, active and well made, 22 or 23 years of age, tho' perhaps of an appearance more youthful, and cunning and artful in the extreme. His features are regular, and the expression of his countenance agreeable—his thumbs are short and unusually thick at the ends—he is an excellent coachman and hostler, having done little else than attend to horses for many years. He carried with him a short blue cloth coat, corduroy pantaloons, and a drab great coat, and many other articles of clothing in a pair of black saddle bags. The above reward will be given for securing him in jail.
JOHN COLES.
Albemarle county, Virg. Nov. 1—
NOTICE.
THE partnership of WILLIAM S. NICHOLLS and Co was dissolved on the 21st August. All persons indebted to them are requested to make immediate payment to either of the subscribers.
WM. S. NICHOLS, RICH. BROCK.
The business in future will be carried on at the same stand, by W. S. NICHOLLS. October 16—3w
Runaway Negroes.
ON the 3rd inst. two men were committed to the jail of Washington County in the district of Columbia, as runaways. One of them call himself THOMAS JOHNSON, and says he was raised in Charleston S. C. where he was set free by Alexander McIlvaine, and after wards served a full apprenticeship to James Mitchell a house carpenter of that place; that he belonged to the frigate John Adams on her first cruise, and came in here to this place as a hand in 1801, and has been here ever since. He is a yellow man 5 feet 7 inches high, about 29 or 30 years of age, speaks fast and rather stammeringly, has a scar under his right shoulder, and another between his eye brows; wears a blue round jacket, duck trowsers and striped vest.
The other a black man calling himself James Frazier, who says he was raised in Carlisle county Pennsylvania, and was set free by Wm Frazier of that place about the year 1798 that the year following he went to sea; and has been either in the British or American navy mostly ever since. He was a hand on board the frigate President, when the latter returned from the Mediterranean. Frazier is about 35 years of age, 5 feet 5 inches high, has a large annular scar on his right side, and wears a blue round jacket, nankin trowsers striped vest, &c
Any person claiming the above fellows, or either of them, are desired to make legal application and take them away; otherwise they will be disposed of as the Law directs.
DANIEL C. BRENT.
Marshal of the district of Columbia. Oct. 21.
KING'S HOTEL.
The subscriber begs leave to inform his friends and the public generally, that he has moved from the Navy Yard to the Capitol Hill, in the hotel lately occupied by Mr. P. D. Stelle, where he hopes to be favoured with a part of their patronage it being a desirable situation, and the conveniences of the hotel excelled by none in the city. He therefore hopes to please those that call upon him in every instance.
WILLIAM R. KING.
August 30—tf.
For Sale
IN the county of Prince William, Virginia, Meschio furnace and its appendages, with four or five thousand acres of land adjoining, near the town of Dumfries, and within four or five miles of the Potomac—the soil is generally adapted to small grain, and if too considerable for one purchaser, will be laid off in Lots suitable for small farms—a description of the land is thought unnecessary—as those wishing to purchase with no doubt first view it: the payments required will be one third cash, and the other two thirds in annual instalments, to be secured by a mortgage on the land; and no deed given until the last payment is made; any person wishing to purchase, may know the terms by applying to Mr. Thomas T. Page, living near the premises, who is fully authorised by me to sell the whole or any part.
JOHN TAYLOR.
August 16—3m.
N. B. A valuable mine bank in Maryland may be had with the furnace if required.
J. T.
City of Washington, Sept. 9, 1805.
Several persons under the impression that the public lots in this city are to be disposed of in future by public sales only, having made enquiries when the next sale will probably take place, we are requested to state that those lots may at any time be purchased at private sale of the Superintendent of the City.
SULLIVAN'S LECTURES.
PROPOSALS
By THOMAS B. WALL & Co.
FOR PRINTING, BY SUBSCRIPTION,
AN HISTORICAL TREATISE
ON THE
FEUDAL LAW,
AND THE
CONSTITUTION AND LAWS OF ENGLAND;
With a Commentary on Magna Charta, and Illustrations of many of the English Statutes.
BY THE LATE
FRANCIS STOUGHTON SULLIVAN, L. L. D. Royal Professor of Common Law in the University of Dublin.
to which authorities are added, and a Diffcourse is prefixed, concerning the Laws and Government of England,
BY GILBERT STUART, L. L. D.
THE Lectures of Professor Sullivan, delivered to the students in the University of Dublin, are in very high repute among all Lawyers of eminence, and have been uniformly recommended as an elementary book to those young gentlemen who begin the study of Law with a view to render themselves respectable in the profession.
However obsolete the feudal policy may now seem to be, it having gradually disappeared as mankind grew more civilized and became better acquainted with their natural and inalienable rights and privileges; yet a research into the history of the government of jurisprudence of the nations of Europe, will satisfy any one, that many consequences of that system still exist and influence the opinions and decisions of the highest and most enlightened tribunals of justice. Every author who has undertaken to give a regular and systematic account of the rise and progress of modern nations, has felt himself obliged to resort to the history of feuds and feudal rights, as the fundamental principle from which all existing civil and political institutions have taken their rise; and every jurist who has employed himself in explaining the constitution and laws of his country, has gone to the same source for the correct materials of his essays and dissertations. Robertson, in his history of the Emperor Charles V. has with great beauty and perspicuity illustrated so much of the feudal policy as was necessary to enable the scientific reader to understand that valuable book; and Sir Wm. Blackstone has in the course of his Commentaries, led the student to a contemplation of the ancient tenures, many of which depend upon the doctrine of feuds, as established in England by the Norman conqueror.
But in both those invaluable productions, the feudal policy was adverted to, only as incidental to the principal object of the authors, and therefore cannot be supposed to furnish so complete and satisfactory an account, as would be given by so distinguished a lawyer as professor Sullivan, who declares the great purpose of his lectures to be the full discussion of the subject, which was of necessity but partially considered by the other writers.
This work has become so scarce in this country, as to be seldom seen, even on the shelves of a practising lawyer; a fact to be accounted for only by the difficulty of obtaining the book: for it cannot well be supposed that any one of the profession, who has higher views than the mere pecuniary advantages of the practise, would willingly neglect an enquiry into those ancient institutions, upon which, notwithstanding the lapse of ages, most modern improvements are founded. But it is not so the profession alone, that this book may be considered useful. In this rising empire, where political knowledge to a certain degree is claimed by all, and actually possessed by many; a book which so judiciously and perspicuously brings to view the laws, institutions, manners and customs of those nations from which our English ancestors descended, must be peculiarly useful as it will enable young politicians to trace all our civil regulations to their source, and thus to account methodically and scientifically for many modern usages and practices, of which their knowledge is extremely superficial. In this book they will see how our ancestors struggled for the establishment of those privileges which artful monarchs and a proud nobility were continually attempting to destroy; and they will also learn that the persevering industry of the people, aided by the wealth which their skill and enterprise brought into the country, finally obtained a complete victory in the establishment of principles and customs, which, transplanted into America by our progenitors, terminated in those glorious constitutions which distinguish the people of America, for liberty and happiness, from every other people on the earth.
CONDITIONS.
The work shall be elegantly printed, in two octavo volumes, on fine wove paper, with a new and beautiful type. It will be delivered to Subscribers, bound in calf, at Five Dollars; and in boards at Four Dollars—To non-subscribers the price will be enhanced. No money will be required till the delivery of the work.
Those who subscribe for ten sets shall have one gratis. To booksellers the usual allowance will be made. Portland, June 24—
The above work will be printed from a correct London Edition—The few copies of an Irish Edition now circulating in this country are considered by the first law characters as extremely incorrect, and not to be relied on by historical authority.