The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1807-11-27 00:00:00

National Intelligencer.
WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VIII.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
NO. 1111.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM,
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 1807.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
Electio
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Debate on the Report of the committee of Elections, on the contested election of Wm. McCreery.
(CONTINUED.)
Mr. STURGES said, that the report now before the committee presented two questions for their consideration:
1st. A question of fact. 2d. A question arising under the constitution of the United States, or in other words from comparing the law of the state of Maryland with that instrument. As he was one of the committee of Elections and joined in the opinion which was reported, he was saved the necessity (in consequence of the view they had of the second question) of considering the question of fact. He would however make one observation respecting the question of fact: which was, that whatever declarations Mr. McCreery might have made, or whatever doubts he might have expressed previous to his election, as to his right of being a candidate, if he had been in an error it could upon no principle with which Mr. S. was acquainted affect his right.
As to the second question, Mr. S. said, he knew of no clause of the constitution which could have a bearing of any importance upon it, except the second clause of the second section of the first article, which was in these words: "No person shall be a Representative who shall not have attained to the age of twenty-five years, and been seven years, a citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant of that state in which he shall be chosen." In this clause they found the framers of the constitution had enumerated the qualifications of the elected. It had been said that there was nothing in that clause prohibitory to the states, or which would prevent them from superadding to the qualifications of the candidate. He would answer, that when the framers of the constitution undertook deliberately to enumerate the qualifications, it was presumable they meant that no others should be necessary. It was not by any means a necessary, but, as Mr. S. conceived, a forced implication, that because the states were not prohibited in express terms, they did possess the right. The implication was in his opinion directly the reverse. But it had been said, and would undoubtedly be urged, though it had not yet been stated in the debate, that whatever powers were not expressly denied in the constitution to the states, or in other words—what had not expressly been granted by the states to the general government was retained by the states. He acceded to the correctness of the position generally. But a disjunction was to be observed, in those cases where from the nature of the subject there was no incompatibility, where there was no clashing in the concurrent exercise of powers by the general and the state governments, the principle would apply; but in those cases where from the nature of the subject, there would be an incompatibility, the principle did not and ought not to apply. For instance in attending to the legislative powers granted to the general government by the 8th section of the first article of the constitution, they found that Congress had the power "to lay and collect taxes." In this clause the same power was not denied to the states, and it was retained by them; but why? Because from the nature of the subject there would in its exercise be no interference with the general government. In the 7th clause of the same section and article, Congress have the power "to establish post offices and post roads." A power over the same subject was not in express terms denied to the states, but had the states a right to establish post offices and post roads? He answered no. Why not? For the reasons and on account of the distinction he had mentioned: because, from the nature of the subject, were they to exercise the power, there would be an interference with the powers of Congress: and there would be a serious inconvenience, for it was desirable and indeed indispensable that there should be an uniformity in the laws regulating post offices and post roads. So in the case now before the committee—should the states be allowed the power to determine
the qualifications of the elected, more especially were they to have the right to superadd, after the constitution had enumerated certain qualifications, that incompatibility, that interference of powers which he had mentioned, would exist.
Will gentlemen attend to the consequences of the doctrine they contended for against the acceptance of the report? If the states had a right to superadd, why might they not say by law, that the candidate should have an income of $10,000 per year? Why not, if they should think it expedient, apportion the number of representatives to which they are entitled among the different professions of the community? Why not say, that a certain number should be physicians, a certain number lawyers, & a certain number clergymen? Why not say, that the candidate should be an inhabitant of the particular state any number of years they please; say twelve, or any other number, although by the constitution a residence of seven years within the U. S. is sufficient? Why not say, that he should profess certain political principles? Why not that he should profess certain moral qualifications? Or to come more nearly to the particular case now under consideration, if they had a right to restrict the residence to a particular town in the district, why not to a particular street in that town, or even to a particular house? Were gentlemen prepared to admit these consequences? Or would they say, these were extreme cases? He asked them on his part, to designate upon their doctrine the line to which the states might go, and which they might not pass? He found there appeared to be an alarm excited as to the validity of district elections as practised in many of the states. That question was not now before the committee; but respecting it, he remarked that the states had the right to adopt regulations relative to "the times, places and manner of holding elections," and it was not by any means clear, that restricting the residence of the candidate within the district was not a right vested in the states by the term "manner." Besides, the states had a right to send one representative for every 33,000 inhabitants. Now if the states had a right, by virtue of the power to determine as to "the manner," to say that a certain number of the electors included within a certain district, shall vote together, it seemed to be reasonable that the candidate should also reside in the same district. But, granting that the doctrine urged in favor of the report should be attended with the consequences which had excited the alarm, yet he trusted if the argument was a sound one as to the particular case now under consideration, that it would not be rejected.
Being as he before observed, one of the committee of Elections, and in the opinion of the majority, he felt it incumbent on him to assign the reasons for his opinion.
Mr. RANDOLPH said he had been informed by a member of the committee yesterday, that the printed report was extremely defective: The report was not laid on his table till yesterday: and he did not think the members had yet had time to form their opinions on so momentous a question. He therefore moved that the committee should rise.
Mr. SMITH remarked that this was a question which had never yet been decided, although very important. He wished the committee not to rise so soon; for time could not be more usefully employed than in discussing it.
Mr. SAWYER said, that as the facts which had been reported by the committee, did not go far enough to prove that McCreery was a resident of the city of Baltimore, as the laws of Maryland required, he thought they might be permitted to take it for granted that he was not, notwithstanding the committee have drawn an inference contrary to the evident tenor of those facts. In regard to the ex parte representation of Mr. McCreery, which they had thought proper to superadd to this special verdict from which they were to argue the constitutional law, even if it were properly verified, it would add very little to the proof necessary to establish that qualification; because it merely stated that Mr. McCreery had expressed an intention of becoming a resident of the city of Baltimore, but had not carried that intention into effect farther
than he could be said to do by a residence of five or six days. The only part therefore of the report of the committee which merited their attention, was that which involved the constitutionality of the law of Maryland. As the 2d sect. of the 1st art. of the constitution of the United States related to this subject, he moved that it be read for the information of the House. (Here the clerk read that part of the constitution.)
By this article it appeared that the general qualifications specified are, that a person, to become eligible to a seat in this House, must have arrived at the age of 25 years, have been seven years a citizen of the United States, and twelve months a resident of the state from which he was to be elected; leaving, as might be naturally supposed, to the states respectively, the addition of such other particular qualifications as they might think proper to impose, not incompatible with those fundamental ones laid down in that article. This clause might be considered as the text from which each state might make any practical commentary, not at variance with the letter of it. But it was contended by the chairman of the committee (Mr. Findley) that those positive qualifications assumed by that article of the constitution, contained a negative prohibition to every state of the right of imposing any others. Mr. S. said he was not prepared at present to grant any rights under the constitution, but such as had been stipulated for by express provision. He should by no means conceive himself justifiable in surrendering up one of the most essential rights of each state, and of his own among the rest, by mere implication. So far as an effective operation of this clause depended upon a latitude of construction, he was perfectly willing it should have it; but there was not the least necessity for such a construction in that case; because an inclusion of the condition of a residency in a state, was not an exclusion of the condition of a residency in a district; and a state by annexing the latter condition to the former, did not in any respect prevent the full operation of that clause of the constitution, according to its sense expressed or implied. There was no necessity, under the most liberal construction of this article, to suppose that a residency in a state should supercede the necessity of a residency in a district. So far from the views which the framers of the constitution had being thwarted by a construction of the kind he contended for, it would be the means of more completely carrying them into effect; unless it could be supposed that a person's being better qualified than the constitution required, should disqualify him altogether: for undoubtedly, the surest, and in fact the only way of becoming a resident of a state was to become a resident of a district, for every state was composed of districts.
But even supposing that they should be impeded in their progress by the difficulty which a construction either way would produce, in rendering a negative injury to the constitution, or a positive one to the states; still their doubts would be dispelled and their progress made easy by another clause in the constitution, and which was added for the express purpose of clearing up all doubts that might arise under its interpretation. It was this: Whatever powers and authorities are not expressly delegated by the constitution to the United States, or necessarily arising under it, shall be reserved to the states themselves or to the people. Now he hoped that a mere commencement to exercise a certain power under the constitution, was not to be considered as a complete termination of it with regard to the states. A right could not be said to be delegated absolutely, which may be exercised conjointly. He thought, therefore, he could lay it down as an undeniable rule, that the right which each state had to require a person to become a resident of the district for which he may be elected, was not delegated expressly to the constitution, for there were no words in it to that effect; neither did it flow from a necessary operation of any of its provisions; therefore it must belong to the states themselves or to the people.
It might as well be said that no state had a right to lay itself out into districts, as to say that the constitution denied them the right to elect persons who must become residents of those dis-
tricts. Every argument which went to shew that this right could not be enjoyed by a state, went equally to prove that their mode of dividing states into districts, and the elections which were made to that House accordingly, was fundamentally wrong & unconstitutional. Because those divisions were marked out as the only practicable mode by which persons could acquire that qualification which the state of Maryland in this instance, as well as most of the states in similar instances had thought proper to create. This qualification the law of Maryland expressly stated to be, that one of the persons to be elected from the district of Baltimore, should have been a resident of the city twelve months immediately previous to the election. Mr. McCreery was not a resident of the city one year previous to the day of election, therefore he could not be entitled to a seat in that House. Independent of the right which the state of Maryland had to impose this qualification in a general point of view, she had particular reasons for the application of it to this particular point. Baltimore was a rich, growing, commercial city, and her interests were too important to go unrepresented on that floor. But in the exercise of that right, they might observe the utmost liberality on the part of Maryland; for she conceded the right to the county exclusively, of appointing a representative who was a resident of the county, at the same time she wished the city to enjoy a similar right. In other large commercial districts, they observed the representation was altogether from the cities. Philadelphia for instance enjoyed that advantage over the counties of her district, which her superior population afforded her, by sending three representatives to this House. But Baltimore, by a spirit of magnanimity, was disqualified from the enjoyment of any other privilege than what was exercised by the county, though in a little time her increasing population would enable her to enjoy a similar advantage with Philadelphia. How little this moderation in the equal distribution of a favor, deserved the total abrogation of it on her part, must readily appear upon any grounds of common justice; but if it were not extended to her from the peculiar hardships of her case, Mr. S. trusted it would be conceded to her according to the political right enjoyed and expressed by the state of Maryland. He was the more earnest in this case, because, while he advocated the rights of the state of Maryland, he felt for those of his own state, which might at a future period be jeopardized like those of the devoted city of Baltimore.
The conclusion which he drew from the premises was this. The state of Maryland had a right to impose this qualification, because it was neither expressly delegated nor impliedly assumed under the constitution of the United States. She had exercised this right by declaring that the city and county of Baltimore should elect one representative each. The county of Baltimore in pursuance of this regulation, had given a majority of its votes to Nicholas R. Moore, and the city of Baltimore had given a majority of its votes to Commodore Barney, who in his opinion was as legally entitled to his seat as Mr. S. himself, or any other gentleman on the floor. The whole dispute rested between Mr. Moore and Mr. McCreery, who should obtain a majority of the votes of the county, leaving the city entirely out of view, as neither of them could represent her, not being residents therein. As the majority had fallen on Mr. Moore, he has been duly elected, and the county had no right to send Mr. McCreery here also; for if she could elect two representatives, she could with the same propriety elect three or four, or a dozen, which would be absurd. He therefore hoped and trusted the report would not be agreed to.
Mr. RANDOLPH said he would withdraw his motion for the committee to rise, as he perceived gentlemen persist in debating the merits of the main question.
That House had never been called upon to make a more important decision than the one now proposed. He wished he was better prepared for the discussion—he had scarcely run over the report of the Committee of Elections—but it was one of those questions upon which his mind had been so long unalterably fixed that he
could not refrain from the endeavor to warn the committee of the dangerous ground which they were invited to tread. In undertaking to decide upon the validity of the law of a state, they touched upon a subject which should never be approached but under the most imperious necessity, and where no shadow of doubt could hang upon their decision. It might be said that with the reasoning of the report, they had nothing to do; it was the committee's reasoning, not theirs; that they acted on the naked resolution only. But it was obvious to the meanest capacity, that when the committee thought the fact of Mr. McCreery's residence in Baltimore so unimportant that no question was taken upon it, and grounded their resolution solely upon the unconstitutionality of the law requiring it, that House could not affirm the resolution without affirming at the same time the only point upon which the committee had decided in favor of the sitting member. What were they required to do? To declare the law of Maryland, long revered and obeyed, under which successive elections had been held, and never before questioned—to pronounce this law to be a dead letter entitled to no respect even from her own citizens—and to absolve them from all obedience to it. Was it matter of surprise that members of that House were startled at an innovation so daring and so dangerous? He laid it down as a principle not to be questioned that Congress should never undertake to pronounce upon state regulations but in cases too clear to admit a contest, and where the decision could not be evaded without manifest detriment to the general good. If he were to be called upon to establish a criterion—an infallible touchstone of the soundness of political principles, it should be made to consist of nothing so much as a sacred regard for the rights of the states. An enlarged and liberal construction of state rights was with him an indispensable requisite, and he could never give his confidence to a politician disposed to such a construction. He viewed the proposed measure but as the commencement of a series—as the entering wedge. If they began with declaring one law of one state unconstitutional, where were they to stop. They might, they would go on (it was the natural tendency of power never to be satisfied as long as there was anything left to devour;) until the state governments, stripped of all authority, rendered contemptible in the eyes of the people for their imbecility, and odious for their expense, mere skeletons of governments, the shadows of their former greatness, should be forever abolished and a great consolidated empire established upon their ruins. Mr. R. looked forward to such an event as the death warrant of the existing constitution, and of the people's liberties. If they wished to preserve the constitution they must learn to respect the rights of the states, and not bring the whole artillery of the federal government to bear upon them. In such a contest the states must fall, and when they did fall there was an end of all republican government in the country.
The 2d paragraph of the second section of the first article of the constitution had to his extreme surprise been construed by the Committee of Elections as restricting the states from annexing qualifications to a seat in the House of Representatives. He could not view it in that light. Mark the distinction between the first and second paragraphs. The first is affirmative and positive—"They shall have the qualifications necessary to the electors of the most numerous branch of the state legislature." The second merely negative—"No person shall be a representative who shall not have attained the age of 25 years, &c." No man could be a member without these requisites, but it did not follow that he who had them was entitled to sit at naught such other requisites as the several states might thing proper to demand. If the constitution had meant (as was contended) to have settled the qualification of members its words would have naturally run thus. "Every person who has attained the age of 25 years, and been seven years a citizen of the United States, and who shall, when elected, be an inhabitant of the state from which he shall be chosen, shall be eligible to a seat in

the House of Representatives." But so far from fixing the qualifications of members of that House, the constitution merely enumerated a few disqualifications , within which the states were left free to act. It said to the states, you have been in the habit of electing young men barely of age; you shall send no one but such as are five and twenty. Some of you have elected persons just naturalized; you shall not elect any to this House who have not been seven years citizens of the United States. Sometimes mere sojourners and transient persons have been clothed with legislative authority, you shall elect none whom your laws do not consider as inhabitants. Thus guarding against too great a laxity in the state regulations by general and negative provisions, leaving them however within the limits of those restrictions to act for themselves—to consult the genius, habits, and (if you will) the prejudices of their people. The first paragraph which he had read was positive and affirmative. By it every person having the qualification requisite to an elector of the most numerous branch of his state legislature was entitled to vote for members of the House of Representatives. Yet nevertheless the qualification of the elector rested with the state. They might make it a part of the qualification of an elector that he should reside within his district, county, city or borough. Would it not be absurd to say that a man might take a seat in that House who at the same time was not qualified to vote for a member of it? It had always been supposed that the elector should possess higher qualifications than the elected. Yet here it would be entirely reversed. And why should it be supposed that whilst the constitution had vested in the state the greater power, that which was most susceptible of abuse, the unlimited right of prescribing the qualifications of the voter;—it had vested to them, by a forced implication, the right of prescribing the qualification of the person voted for; having respect, however, to the disqualifications enumerated in it? The construction of the constitution for which he had contended was so obvious and natural, that it had been adopted by the states and acted upon from the commencement of the government without any man dreaming of stating an objection to it. And the uniform practice of near twenty years, and the laws of the states in which that practice originated, were to be overturned at once with as little ceremony as they would change one of their rules. If the doctrine of the Committee of Elections be sanctioned, Mr. R. said he did not know by what authority he himself could claim his seat. The law of Virginia under which he held it was equally unconstitutional with the law of Maryland. Indeed it might be demonstrated perhaps that we had been living for years under an unconstitutional government. Laws could not be valid which were passed by persons unconstitutionally elected. We should rip up the government to its very foundations. The state of Virginia appointed her electors by a general ticket (to keep out the heathen) but each elector was to come from a particular district, notwithstanding twenty-four separate districts sent twenty-four electors by general ticket. If the state had no right to prescribe that the elector should be a resident of his district, the President had been unconstitutionally elected in the first instance by the electors, and in the second by members of that House voting by states, which members themselves had no right to their seats, the law under which they were appointed being null, void and of no effect. Were gentlemen prepared for such conclusions as these? Mr. R. said that a gentleman from Maryland had obliged him by calling his attention to that article of the constitution which enjoined that "the citizens of each state shall be entitled to all the privileges and immunities of citizens in the several states." Now if it were laid down as a principle that the state had no right to require the residence of a member of that house within his district, the whole representation of Maryland might be taken (as they would be taken) from the town of Baltimore. Transient persons from the other states happening to arrive at Baltimore on the day before the election, who if elected would declare their determination to become permanent residents, might be returned as members of that house and must maintain their seats under this decision. The House of Representatives would become a mere shadow, a mockery of representation, not such as the people were attached to in support of their claim to which they had bled, but such a representation as an English lawyer allowed us to possess in the British House of Commons, when he discovered that the different grants in America being held as part and parcel of the manor of East
Greenwich all the colonies were represented by the knights of the shire, for Kent. He believed they would possess just as much knowledge of the interests of their constituents, in the one case, as had been exhibited in the other, and would demonstrate the same sort of care of their persons and purses. Mr. Randolph said that he held residence within the body of the county or district to be of the very essence of representation. To be a good representative, a man must not only reside among the people, he must be one of them, bound to them by every tie of habit, interest and affection, not a stranger having no common feeling with them, known to them only by report, and imposed upon them by cabal, intrigue, and corruption. He believed there were no gentlemen of that House who had maintained a more uninterrupted harmony with each other than that which subsisted between himself and the two gentlemen from Baltimore, (Messrs. Moore and McCreery.) Their whole intercourse had consisted in an interchange of civilities and courtesies. But this could not affect his opinion upon the present question. But whilst he thought Mr. McCreery certainly, and Mr. Moore possibly not entitled to a seat, he could not agree with a gentleman from N. Carolina that Mr. Barney was duly elected. He would never consent to any man's sitting in that House upon the votes of a minority of the qualified electors of his district. He respected the rights of the people not less than the rights of the states. If a majority of the electors had voted for an unqualified person, believing him to be qualified, he thought the election should be set aside, & it should be put into the power of the people to send the man of their choice who should be duly qualified. Mr. R. said that the votes not being given in exact conformity to law, perhaps the whole election should be set aside, but he inclined to the opinion that Mr. Moore was duly elected as the county member, that the votes given to Mr. McCreery were under the idea that he still continued a resident of the city—that, being unqualified, his seat should be vacated, and a new writ issued to fill the vacancy.
If the report of the committee of Elections should be affirmed it would be an era in the history of this government. For the first time and when the nation was under the guidance of men supposed to be friendly to the interests of the states and of the people, the law of a state was to be declared unconstitutional. Before the committee undertook to pronounce this sentence, to set this awful precedent, it behooved them to pause and consider well. This decision, said Mr. R. will not be final. It will be but the forerunner of a long series of acts abrogating the laws and usages of the states, endeared to the people by habit, and sanctified by reason. Before you enter upon this fatal act be you well assured that the right is indisputably your own, and that you are called upon to exercise it by considerations which it would be criminal to resist. Beware lest whilst you proudly assert your power, you do not meet the reprobation of the great body of the American people.
(TO BE CONTINUED.) 209
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 23. Mr. Elliot, from the committee appointed to enquire what alterations were necessary to be made in the act for appointing an additional judge, &c. in the Mississippi territory, reported a bill for extending jurisdiction in certain cases to the territorial courts, and for other purposes; which was read twice and referred to a committee of the whole House to-morrow.
Mr. Marion presented the petition of James Wilson, which was referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures. Mr. Jer. Morrow said that by the several acts for placing on the pension list persons who were wounded in the service of the U. S. no provision was made for persons wounded on the frontiers of the U. S. or elsewhere since the revolutionary war, many persons in that situation were undoubtedly entitled to relief. He therefore offered the following resolution, which was agreed to.
Resolved, That the committee appointed on the 5th inst. to enquire what compensation should be allowed for issuing commissions, giving authority to take testimony or examinations relative to claims or applications under the act to provide for persons who were disabled by known wounds received in the revolutionary war, be instructed to enquire whether provision ought not to be made by law for placing on the pension list of the U. S. persons who have received wounds in the service of the U. S. subsequent to the revolutionary war, and who were called into service under any of the several acts of Congress providing for the protection of the frontiers, such persons
having served in the militia, in a volunteer corps, or in the regular forces or under a special engagement, and that they report by bill or otherwise.
Mr. Chandler presented the petition of sundry inhabitants of Kennebec, in the district of Maine, praying for the establishment of a port of delivery; which was referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
An engrossed bill for allowing additional compensation to the Secretaries of the Mississippi, Indiana, Louisiana, and Michigan territories, was read the third time and passed.
The engrossed bill for the erection of a bridge over the river Potomac, was about to be read for the third time, when
Mr. Nelson moved that it be recommitted to a select committee for the purpose of amendment. On this motion a debate ensued, in which the motion was supported by Messrs. Nelson, Sloan, Smilie, Key, Crowninshield, Desha, Bacon, and Talmadge, and opposed by Messrs. Lewis and Gardenier.
The reasons given in favour of recommitment, were, that the corporation was made perpetual; that there ought to be some provision allowing the U. S. to become purchasers if they chose, after a certain length of time, in order to make it a free bridge; that there was in the bill no provision making the shares of a stockholder amenable to process of law; that a man might consequently vest all his property in this stock in order to defraud his creditors; and that there was in the bill no provision for clearing the channel of the river, in case it should be injured by the bridge being carried away by ice, storms, &c. or should be left unfinished.
Those who opposed the motion expressed their regret that these amendments had not been thought of when the bill was before the committee of the whole, and open for amendment; that this was done with a design to defeat the principle of the bill, and that the advocates of the motion might be compared to physicians who administered their nostrums to an infant till they strangled it; in answer to the first objection it was replied that the risk which the subscribers would run in the experiment entitled them to ample remuneration, and yet whenever the annual income exceeded 15 per centum on their capital, Congress was authorised to lower the tolls; to the second objection it was answered that every monied institution was liable to the same objection; that creditors were authorised to seize upon tolls arising from the stock of individuals, and to sequestrate them till they received their dues; and to the third objection, it was said that these events were within the bare compass of possibility, and might never happen.
The motion for recommitment to a select committee was carried—Ayes 72; and the same committee appointed that brought in the bill.
Mr. G. W. Campbell, from the committee of Ways and Means, made a report in favour of the petitions of Edward Weld and Samuel Beebee; which was referred to a committee of the whole on Thursday next.
Mr. G. W. Campbell from the same committee made report on the petitions of the measurers of salt and coal, and inspectors of customs in the district of New York; and on the petitions of several inspectors of Baltimore, New York, and Boston; declaring it as the opinion of the committee, that it is inexpedient at this time to grant their request. These reports were referred to the committee of the whole to-morrow.
Mr. Blount moved that the petition of sundry traders, merchants, &c. in the district of Edenton, N. C. praying for a port of entry be referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.—Agreed.
Mr. Blount also moved that the petition of sundry inhabitants in the town of Washington, N. C. praying for the establishment of a mail boat to Shell Castle Island, be referred to the Post-Office committee. Agreed.
Mr. Thomas said, that by an act passed in 1798, the Secretary of war, the Secretary of the Treasury, and the Comptroller of the Treasury, were appointed commissioners to examine the claims of refugees from the British provinces of Canada and Nova Scotia. These commissioners had made two reports on those claims, which had not yet been finally acted on. At the last session they were referred to a select committee, who reported a bill which passed this House, but was postponed in the Senate. He now moved that they be referred to a select committee. Agreed, Ayes 55, Nays 23; and the following gentlemen appointed the committee; Messrs. Thomas, Bibb, and Bacon.
On motion of Mr. Poindexter, the House went into a committee of the
whole on the bill to extend the right of suffrage in the Mississippi territory, and for other purposes.
Mr. Troup moved to strike out the 1st section of the bill, extending the right of suffrage, as well on the ground of its being incompatible with the articles of cession and agreement between the U. S. and Georgia as on its inexpediency.
The motion was supported by Messrs. Troup and Bibb, and opposed by Messrs. Poindexter, W. Alston, Rhea of Ten. and Sloan, who contended that there was no doubt of the right of Congress to legislate on this subject or of its expediency.
[An abstract of the arguments shall be given in a future paper.]
When the committee rose without coming to a decision, and obtained leave to sit again.
TUESDAY, Nov. 24. Leave of absence was granted to Mr. Dawson for three days.
Mr. Brown presented the petition of Caspar Reiser, which was referred to the committee on Claims barred, &c.
Mr. Newton from the committee of Commerce and Manufactures reported a bill to change the name of the district of Burysport, in the district of Massachusetts, agreeably to petition of Jeremiah Hill; which was read twice and referred to a committee of the whole on Thursday next.
Mr. Mansford presented a petition from sundry merchants of the city of New York, praying for a modification of the duties on whale and sperm oil; which was referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. Elount said, that as chairman of the committee of aggression, he had received a letter from the secretary of the navy stating some errors which had been discovered in the report of the committee of enquiry communicated by the secretary to the committee, and by them to the House; which letter was read, and ordered to be printed. [It shall be given in the next Intelligence.]
Mr. J. Clay moved that the petition of the measurers of salt and coal at Philadelphia, be referred to the committee of the whole to whom several petitions on the same subject were yesterday referred.—Agreed.
On motion of Mr. J. Clay the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill authorising the purchase of certain copies of the journals, which being gone through, was reported by the chairman, Mr. Masters, and ordered to a third reading to-morrow. Ayes 80.
On motion of Mr. Darby, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill to incorporate the trustees of the Baptist Church in the city of Washington; which being gone through, Mr. Masters, the chairman, reported the bill, which was ordered to a third reading to-morrow.
IN SENATE, Nov. 20.
Mr. Mitchell, from the committee on that part of the message of the President of the United States, which relates to the defence of our sea-port towns and harbors, reported, in part, the following letter from the Secretary of the Navy; also a bill to appropriate money for the construction of an additional number of gun-boats.
Navy Department, 18th November, 1807.
SIR, In answer to your letter of the 16th inst. in which you ask for such information in relation "to the defence of our sea-port towns and harbors, and the further provision to be made for their security;" as the navy department may possess: I have the honor to state that in aid of the fixed fortifications, which will be submitted by the Secretary of war, it is presumed that there will be required at the ports and harbors, mentioned below, the number of gun-boats annexed to them respectively, viz.
At New Orleans, 16, Savannah, 8, St. Mary's, 4, Charleston, S. C. 10, Georgetown, do. 1, Wilmington, N. C. 3, Ocracoke, 4, Albemarle Sound, 1, Norfolk, 60, Alexandria, 2, Baltimore, 3, Philadelphia, 4, Delaware bay and river, 10, Egg harbor, N. J. 1, Amboy, 2, New York, 50, Long Island, 4, New London, 6, Connecticut Shore, 5, New Port, R. I. 12, Tiverton, 1, Boston, 12, Salem and Newburyport, 6, Portland, 5, New Bedford, 4, Marblehead and Cape Ann, 2, York, Kennebec and Saco, 2, Kennebec, Sheepscot, Damariscotta, Broad Bay, St. Georges's, 5, Penobscot, 3, Frenchman's Bay, 2, Passamaquoddy Bay, 3, Portsmouth, N. H. 4. Making in all, 257
Of which we have at this time provided, 69
Would leave to be provided, gun-boats, 188 The building of these gun-boats
is estimated on an average at $ 5000 each.
188 gun-boats, at $ 5000 make $ 940,000
Deduct the amount of timber contracted for, as stated in the exhibit of extraordinary expenses incurred by the navy department since the 22d June last, 87,500
Would leave to be appropriated for building of 188 gun-boats, $ 852,500
Respectfully submitted. R. SMITH. Hon. SAMUEL L. MITCHELL, Chairman of a Committee of the Senate.
The bill is as follows: Be it enacted, &c. That the President of the United States be, and he hereby is authorized and empowered to cause to be built a number not exceeding gun-boats, and to equip, arm, man, fit out and employ the same, for the better protection of the ports and harbors of the United States, and for such other purposes as in his opinion the public service may require.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted , That a sum not exceeding dollars be, and hereby is appropriated, for this purpose, out of any monies in the treasury not otherwise appropriated.
L'ORACLE! A FRENCH & AMERICAN PAPER.
Is to be published in the city of New York on the 1st of January, 1808. We are authorised to announce to Amateurs of Languages and especially to American Ladies, and Gentlemen that this new establishment is dedicated and adapted to their general beneficial use.
Subscription Lists to receive subscribers are left at this Office, with the Representatives of South Carolina and New York, at Mr. WRIGHTMAN'S Bookstore, and at STELLE'S Hotel, &c.
Subscribers to pay Nine Dollars per annum, Eight Dollars only if paid in advance. November 25—
CHARLES GARDEN, MERCHANT TAYLOR, RESPECTFULLY informs the gentlemen of the district of Columbia and public in general, that he has just received by a late arrival from Philadelphia,
A CHOICE ASSORTMENT Of superfine Cloths, Cassimeres, single and double milled, superfine Coatings, black silk Florentines. Like wise an elegant assortment of Spencaits and rich silk Moleskins, for waistcoats with a variety of other articles, suitable for the season.
Regimentals and Navy Uniforms made in the most elegant and uniform style of fashion.
Richard Horwell's celebrated patent parlor suspenders far superior to any hitherto in use can be had on the same terms retail, as at his manufactory.
Four or five good Journeymen wanted, who will find constant employ. November 27—1f
TAKEN up as a stray on the 16th inst. near Bladensburg, a dark brown Horse, between 11 and 12 years of age, and about 13 and 1 1/2 hands high, has a bob-tail, and 2 or 3 small saddle spots and was shod all round. The owner of the above horse may have him again by proving property and paying charges, on application to JOSEPH HARDISTY, near Bladensburg. November 27—St
Charles County court, August Term, 1807.
SAMUEL BAXTER, an insolvent debtor of Charles county, having applied by petition in writing to the judges of the court here praying the benefit of an act for the relief of sundry insolvent debtors, passed at the last session of the General Assembly, a schedule of his property and a list of the creditors on his cash as far as he can ascertain them, as directed by the said act having accompanied his petition, and the said county court being satisfied by competent testimony that the said Samuel Baxter has resided the two preceding years within the state of Maryland prior to the passage of the said act, and having been brought before the court here and discharged from imprisonment upon giving bond, by the said act required. It is thereupon ordered and adjudged, by the said court, that the said Samuel Baxter appear before the said county court at the court house, on the first day of March term next to answer such interrogatories as may be proposed to him by his creditors; and that the said day be, and is hereby appointed for the said creditors to appear, and recommend a trustee for their benefit, on the said Samuel Baxter, then and there taking the cash by the said act prescribed, for delivering up his property; and the said Samuel Baxter, give notice of the passage of this order by causing a copy thereof to be served on each and every of his creditors or to so many of them as can be served there with or their agent or attorney at least three months before the said first day of March term, and by causing a copy thereof to be inserted in the National Intelligencer once a week during that time aforesaid, previous to the next term.
Test JOHN BARNES, CLK. Nov. 27—WM. MAR.

MARRIED—On Sunday the 15th inst. by the Revd. Mr. Malvey, Jeremiah Booke, Merchant, of this place, to Miss Ann Walker, of St. Mary's County.
Prurium in Mr. Findley's speech—In the last column and 21 lines from the head instead of national read natural.
It with regret that we state the death of Dr. Charles Jarvis, a distinguished republican of Massachusetts.
Prussia has prohibited all trade with England.
The Senate were on Wednesday engaged on the bill for authorising the building of an additional number of gun-boats.
After considerable debate, the further consideration of the bill was postponed till Monday next.
On Thursday the Senate was engaged on the bill reported by Mr. Adams, "For the preservation of peace and maintenance of the authority of the United States, in the ports, harbors, and waters under their jurisdiction." Much debate likewise ensued on the provisions of this bill, when the Senate adjourned without coming to any decision.
In our last paper we gave the outlines of a bill reported to the Senate by Mr. Adams, "for the preservation of peace and maintenance of the authority of the United States, in the ports, harbors, and waters under their jurisdiction." We now give the most important parts of the bill at full length.
[The three first sections provide for the arrest of offenders against the laws of the United States, who shall be on board of foreign armed vessels, authorising the use of the military for that purpose.]
Sec. 4. And in order to prevent insults to the authority of the laws whereby the peace of the United States with foreign nations may be in danger, Be it further enacted , That it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, either to permit or interdict, at his discretion, the entrance of the harbors and waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, to all armed vessels belonging to any foreign nation, and by force to repel and remove them from the same, except when they shall be forced in by distress, by the dangers of the sea, by being pursued by an enemy, or when charged with dispatches or business from the government to which they belong; in which cases, as well as in all others when they shall be permitted to enter, the commanding officer shall immediately report his vessel to the collector of the district, stating the object or causes of his entering the harbor or waters, shall take such position therein as shall be assigned him by such collector, and shall conform himself, his vessel and crew to such regulations, respecting health, repairs, supplies, stay, intercourse, and departure, as shall be signified to him by the said collector, under the authority and directions of the President of the United States, and, not conforming thereto, shall be required to depart from the United States.
Sec. 5. And whereas the commanders of certain British armed vessels have committed repeated acts of insubordination to the laws, violence to the persons, and trespasses on the property of the citizens within the ports and harbors of the United States, and by continued acts of outrage and aggression have forfeited all claim to hospitality; and when required by the President of the United States, in pursuance of the authority given him by law, immediately to depart from the harbors and waters of the United States, have in open defiance of the laws and government thereof refused to depart, and in violation of the laws of nations have maintained themselves in hostile array, within the harbors and waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, and against the dignity of the same. Therefore be it further enacted , That no British armed vessel shall be admitted to enter the harbors and waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, but every British armed vessel is hereby interdicted, except when they shall be forced in by distress, by the dangers of the sea, or when charged with dispatches or business from their government, or coming as a public packet for the conveyance of letters, in which case the commanding officer shall conform to the provisions contained in the fourth section of this act; and not conforming thereto shall be required to depart from the United
States: Provided , That whensoever reparation shall be made to the United States, by the British government, to the satisfaction of the President of the United States, for the outrages upon the national sovereignty and independence of the United States, committed on the twenty-second day of June last past, by the attack of a British squadron upon the United States frigate Chesapeake, and continued by numerous other acts of insult, aggression and hostility to the present time, it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, by proclamation, to remove this interdiction of all British armed vessels; and thereupon they may be admitted to enter the ports, harbors and waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, on the same footing and conditions as the armed vessels of other foreign nations.
Sec. 6. And be it further enacted , That if any armed vessel whatsoever, interdicted by any of the provisions of this act, or by proclamation of the President of the United States, issued under the authority thereof, shall contrary to the true intent thereof, enter any of the harbors or waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, or if the commander of any armed vessel, admitted into any of the said harbors or waters, shall refuse or fail to comply with the regulation signified to him by the collector of the district as aforesaid, it shall be the duty of the collector, immediately to require, in writing, the commander of any such armed vessel to depart with his vessel, from the waters and jurisdiction of the United States, conformably to the provisions of this act. And if after such requisition to depart, the commander of such armed vessel shall in defiance thereof fail, or refuse so to do, and with his vessel wilfully remain within, or return to any of the harbors or waters within the jurisdiction of the United States, every such vessel shall be deemed to have made an hostile invasion of the territory of the United States, and while remaining in the harbors or waters under the jurisdiction of the United States, shall be proceeded against as a vessel of an enemy, and may be seized, taken, and brought into any port of the United States, with her apparel, guns, and appurtenances, and with the goods and effects on board the same, shall conformably to the laws of nations, be liable to forfeiture and condemnation, and may be libelled and proceeded against in the district court of the United States, for the district into which the same may be brought, and the forfeiture of every such armed vessel, goods, and effects, so seized, taken and condemned, shall accrue wholly to the captors, and the proceeds thereof shall be distributed in the same manner as prize money. And the said captors shall also be entitled to receive the same bounty as is provided in the same is provided in the seventh section of the "Act for the better government of the navy of the United States," passed the twenty third day of April, one thousand eight hundred, and the President of the United States is hereby authorised and required to instruct the commanders of the armed vessels of the United States, to subdue, seize, and take by force or otherwise every such interdicted armed vessel which shall be found violating the territory of the United States as aforesaid.
Sec. 7. And be it further enacted , That all pacific intercourse with any interdicted foreign armed vessel, the officers or crew thereof, is hereby forbidden, and if any person shall afford any aid to such armed vessel, either in repairing her, or in furnishing her, her officers or crew, with supplies of any kind, or in any manner whatsoever, or if any pilot shall assist in navigating the said armed vessel, contrary to this prohibition, unless for the purpose of carrying her beyond the limits and jurisdiction of the United States, the person or persons so offending shall be liable to be bound to their good behavior, and shall also forfeit & pay a sum not exceeding thousand dollars, to be recovered upon indictment or information, in any court of competent jurisdiction, in which last case, the said forfeiture shall accrue in equal portions to the United States and the informer.
Sec. 8. And be it further enacted , That it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, or such other person as he shall have empowered for that purpose, to employ such part of the land forces of the United States, or the militia thereof as he shall deem necessary, to compel the departure of any interdicted foreign armed vessel; and the said land forces and militia are hereby authorised in execution of orders from the President of the United States, to seize, subdue and bring in for forfeiture and condemnation, or to burn, sink or destroy such interdicted foreign armed vessel, as the emergency of the case may require; and the President of the United States
is hereby further authorised to refuse permission to any vessel belonging to the same nation, or to its citizens or subjects, to make entry or unladen, so long as the said interdicted armed vessel shall remain in the harbors or waters of the United States, in defiance of the public authority.
Sec. 9. And be it further enacted , That whenever any collector, conformably to the provisions of this act, shall have required, in writing, the commander of any foreign armed vessel to depart, and the said commander shall fail or refuse so to do, and remain in hostile array in defiance of the laws and government of the United States, it shall be the duty of such collector within days to publish, in one or more newspapers, his requisition to the said commander, and the neglect or refusal of the said commander to comply therewith; whereupon it shall be lawful for any person or persons, in any manner whatsoever, whilst such armed vessel shall so remain within the jurisdiction of the United States, to burn, sink, or destroy every such armed vessel, and a bounty of dollars shall be paid by the United States, to such person or persons, for every gun carried by such armed vessel so burnt, sunk, or destroyed, when the same shall be effected otherwise than by the armed vessels of the United States.
Sec. 10. And be it further enacted , That if, while any interdicted foreign armed vessel shall so remain within the waters and jurisdiction of the United States, in defiance of their laws and authority, any of her officers or crew shall land, and be found on shore in any place within the jurisdiction of the United States, they shall be arrested and imprisoned at the discretion of the President of the United States.
Sec. 11. And be it further enacted , That whensoever any officer of an armed vessel commissioned by any foreign power, shall on the high seas, commit any trespass, or tort, or any spoliations on board any vessel of the United States, or any unlawful interruption, or vexation of trading vessels, actually coming to or going from the United States, it shall be lawful for the President of the United States, on satisfactory proof of the facts, by proclamation, to interdict the entrance of the said officer, and of any armed vessel by him commanded within the limits of the United States; and if at any time after such proclamation made, he shall be found within the limits of the United States, he shall be liable therefor to be arrested, indicted, and punished by fine and imprisonment, in any court in the United States, having competent jurisdiction, and it shall be a part of the sentence, that he shall within such time after the payment of his fine, and the expiration of his term of imprisonment as the court shall direct, leave the United States never to return. And if he shall return within the limits of the United States, after the passing of such sentence, or be found therein, after the period limited by the court as aforesaid, he shall again be liable to be indicted, fined, and imprisoned, at the discretion of the court: Provided always , That if the said officer shall also have committed any other offence, made punishable by this act, he shall be liable to prosecution and punishment, the provisions of this section to the contrary notwithstanding.
Sec. 12. And be it further enacted , That for the purpose of carrying this act into effect, the President of the United States be, and he is hereby authorised and empowered, to cause to be fitted out, officered, manned, and employed, as soon as may be, all the frigates, and other armed vessels of the United States, to be stationed at such ports and places on the sea coast, as he may direct, and to cause to be engaged in addition to those now in the service, any thing in any former act of Congress to the contrary notwithstanding, so many captains, officers, able seamen, ordinary seamen and boys, as shall be necessary for the same, who shall not be engaged to serve for a period exceeding years; but the President may discharge the same sooner, if in his judgment their services may be dispensed with: And to satisfy the necessary expenditures to be incurred therein, a sum not exceeding dollars, shall be, and is hereby appropriated, and shall be paid out of any monies in the treasury not otherwise appropriated.
Sec. 13. And be it further enacted , That the President of the United States shall be, and he hereby is authorised and required to give, as soon as may be, after the passage of this act, to the collectors of the respective districts, and to such other persons as he may think proper, the necessary instructions for carrying this act into effect, particularly marking out the line of conduct to be observed by the
marshal, and the several collectors in performing the duties enjoined by this act.
Sec. 14. And be it further enacted , That if any person shall be sued for any thing done in pursuance of, or in obedience to this act, he may plead the general issue, and give this act in evidence, any thing in any law, custom, or usage, to the contrary notwithstanding.
Sec. 15. And be it further enacted , That this act shall continue in force years, and from thence until the end of the next session of Congress, and no longer.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 25.
The House went again into committee of the whole on the bill extending the right of suffrage in the Mississippi Territory, &c. The greater part of the day was occupied in discussing the principles of the bill. Mr. Bibb offered a proviso declaring that the act should not take effect until the assent of the state of Georgia shall have been signified thereto. This proviso was negatived Ayes 18—Noes 66.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26.
The House took up the bill for extending the right of suffrage in the Mississippi territory, and for other purposes, when the proviso offered by Mr. Bibb yesterday was, after a long and very interesting debate which went fully into the principles of the bill, finally disagreed to, the yeas and nays being taken on it, 86 to 35; when the bill was ordered to a third reading to-morrow—Ayes 73.
Messrs. Bibb, Gardenier, Taylor, and J. Clay supported the proviso; and Messrs. Pointdexter, M. Williams, Sloan, Key, Smilie, Bacon, Lyon, Rhea, Culpeper, Milnor, and Johnston opposed it.
[The details of the two preceding days in our next.]
LONDON, Oct. 2.
"COUNTERVAILING DECREE."
We should certainly be warm advocates for such a measure, if we thought it would force the enemy to take the produce of the Indies from us, and make Bonaparte, repeal his restrictions. But it were well to consider first, whether Bonaparte himself might not wish to drive us into such a measure as that now recommended. Prohibiting all neutral trade, though it might not produce war with America, for it is clear that America will not venture to go to war with us, would greatly reduce the demand for these articles, which America purchases from us to sell to the Continent. But it may be asked whether we are to be deterred from these considerations, from doing anything? Certainly not. America must not be suffered to be the carrier to France of the produce of the French Colonies. Some measures too, must be adopted with respect to the trade of the Americans with the East-Indies. The subject is of too great importance to be dismissed hastily—it deserves, and no doubt does occupy, the most serious attention of government. Upon one point, however, all persons are agreed, that a measure of vigor is indispensably necessary.
Courier.
Oct. 8.
At the levee yesterday, Mr. Munroe, the American ambassador, was presented to his majesty, by the master of ceremonies. His excellency took leave of his majesty previous to his departure for America. Mr. Munroe is succeeded, in his embassy, by Mr. Pinckney. Previous to the levee, Mr. Munroe had an interview with Mr. Canning.
[The above ceremony is generally dispensed with, when Ministers leave the British court dissatisfied.]
Oct. 9.
Mr. Munroe, the American minister, had his final interview with Mr. Canning on Wednesday. His departure is in no respect connected with the dispute with America. The final answer of our government on that subject has already been sent off to Mr. Erskine.
Mr. Munroe is not to embark in the Revenge, but to take passage in the Augusta, from Cowes. The Revenge, is to sail from Plymouth, about the 12th October—The Augusta, was to sail from London for Norfolk Oct. 30.
Oct. 12.
At the Court held the 7th at St. James's, Mr. Munroe, the Ambassador from the U. States, took leave of his Majesty previous to his departure: he also had an interview with Mr. Canning. We understand that the instructions which he received from his government were of so limited a nature, that the negotiation could not be brought to an issue with him. Dispatches containing the final determination of the British government have been sent to our Minister in America.
Oct. 19.
That most important matter, the question of peace or war with America, is now decided, as far as a decision can take place in this country. Our ministers have delivered to Mr. Monroe and Mr. Pinckney their final answer in regard to all the leading points of the dispute. This answer is of a nature on which it by no means falls within the powers of the American envoys to decide, and it now becomes their duty to submit the whole, in the speediest manner, to their government—Mr. Monroe is preparing for an early departure, but he has not yet determined whether he will go out in the Augusta or the Revenge.
The intention of a general blockade of the enemy's ports is now said to be relinquished from an apprehension that it would injure the import of our manufactures into the continent. The American merchants infer from this circumstance, and from the condescending manner of his majesty on Wednesday, when Mr. Monroe had his audience of leave, that the chances are in favor of peace. Nothing, however, can be affirmed with confidence until the disposition of the executive and of congress be explicitly ascertained. Government have determined to recall Mr. Erskine and to send out a new ambassador; but, on whom this important choice will fall is not yet known with certainty.
PARIS, Sept. 17.
The Monitor of this day contains the capitulation according to which the Island of Rugen was evacuated by the Swedes, and afterwards occupied by our troops.
The king of Sweden has returned to his states.
According to a letter in the Monitor, the king of Sweden, and especially the army, are extremely dissatisfied with the behavior of the English. The king has given orders to put his ports in a state of defence; and letters from Stralsund assert, that the expedition against Denmark was not concerted with his privity or consent, as the king of Sweden never heard of the measure till the English fleet arrived in the Sound.
The Monitor also contains the treaty for an armistice between Russia and the Ottoman Porte, concluded under the mediation of France, and signed by the respective negotiators, on the 24th of August, at the castle of Stebisia.
The first article stipulates for the immediate cessation of hostilities.
According to the 2d, Russia and the Porte, immediately after the signing of the armistice, are to send envoys to negotiate a treaty of peace, as soon as possible; and in case this should not take place, hostilities are not to be resumed before the 21st of March 1808.
The 3d article stipulates for the evacuation of Wallachia and Moldavia by the Russian and Turkish troops.
The 4th article relates to the evacuation of the Island of Tenedos and all other places in the Archipelago in possession of the Russians.
The Russian ships of war are to return to their own ports, and leave the Dardanelles and the mouth of the Swine entirely free and open.
By the 6th article, all the prisoners of war and the slaves of both sexes are to be given up without ransom, the Mussulmen only excepted, who may choose to become Christians, the same is to be understood of the Russians who may have become Mahometans.
The ratifications were to be exchanged in the course of a week.
PUBLIC SALE.
At eleven o'clock, A. M. on Thursday, the 31st of December next, at the house of the subscriber, will commence, on very accommodating terms, the sale of the
HOUSE
he now occupies, and the one adjoining, at present occupied by Mr. George McCully.
Also, Two Frame Houses, one of them on 4th street, east, nearly opposite the school house of Mr. Van Zandt, and the other on Canal street, near the Tobacco Inspection: And also, several Lots of Ground, in sizes to suit purchasers, on square 799, (adjoining Mr. Robert Cherry's) and on square 9.4, fronting the west side of the Marine Barracks. The contiguous of the whole of this property to the Navy Yard and Eastern Branch, admits of its being called as good as any in this city.
After which will be sold, the subscriber's entire stock of DRY GOODS AND GROCERIES. Some Ironmongery, Crockery, &c. &c. The terms of which will be made known at the time of sale.
ALEXANDER COCHRAN.
City of Washington, Nov. 26, 1807.
A NEGRO MAN.
A very good Laborer, to hire by the day. Enquire of the Princess.
Oct. 27—w4t

MALTHUS ON POPULATION.
PROPOSALS, FOR PUBLISHING BY SUBSCRIPTION, By J. MILLIGAN BOOKSELLER OF GEORGETOWN (From the third London edition)
AN ESSAY on the PRINCIPLE OF POPULATION; Or a view of its past and present effects on Human Happiness; with an En- quiry into our prospects respecting the future removal or mitigation of the evils which it occasions.
By J. MALTHUS, A. M. Late Fellow of Jesus College, Cambridge.
IN TWO VOLUMES.
CONDITIONS.
The first American edition of Malthus on Population will be comprised in two volumes, octavo, page for page with the London copy. It shall be printed on a handsome woven paper and a new type: each volume will contain about 560 pages.
The price to subscribers, in boards, for each volume, will be two dollars;— handsomely bound and lettered, Two Dollars and Fifty Cents. To non- subscribers the price will be Two Dol- lars and Fifty Cents, in boards, for each volume, and Three Dollars bound and lettered.
Subscriptions for the above work are received by R. C. WRIGHTMAN, city of Washington, and by the prin- cipal Booksellers in the United States.
Extract from the Rainbow, a periodical publication printed at Richmond, Virginia.
"The writer of this Essay, performs what he feels to be in the most emphat- ic sense of the term, a social duty, when on this subject he recommends to such of his readers as may not have been fortunate enough to peruse "Essay on Population," by Malthus. From the perusal of this great work, he has de- rived more original and valuable infor- mation, on the most important subject that can exercise superior genius, or attract the attention of an enlightened people, than from any other book, or from all the other books he has ever read. It is equally calculated to correct the gross prejudices of mere common sense, and dissipate the splendid illu- sions of fanciful speculation respecting the immutable condition of man on earth, the productive causes and proper correctives of human misery and vice, and the future prospects of social im- provement. To many of his readers this note may probably appear to be su- perfluous, and perhaps impertinent. For surely a work of such inestimable value and celebrity must be already in the hands of every man who aspires to discharge the functions of an editor, legislator or instructor in Virginia." J. March's bookstore, Georgetown, ? Columbia, November 25—
MIDDLEBURG
GRAMMAR SCHOOL. The subscriber, who for some time past has had the care of the above school, informs the public that he has removed it to his farm near Middleburg, where he will, as heretofore, teach the Languages, and the more useful branches of the Mathematics. His ex- perience as a teacher, having acted in that capacity for more than 20 years, and his determination to pay the utmost attention to the improvement and mor- als of his pupils; in connexion with the local advantages of the school justify him in hoping for a considerable share of public patronage.
WILLIAM WILLIAMSON, V. D. M. Green Hill near Middleburg, Loudoun county, Virginia, November 23—tf
FOR SALE —Lot no. 15 in square 377 of Washington city—this lot is bounded on the North by North E street, on the West by West 10th street, and contains a very convenient Two Story HOUSE, but a very few steps distant from C. Gray's Spring—an indisputable title will be given. Those who wish to purchase may apply for the terms to Thomas Patterson in Washington city or to the subscriber in Berkeley county Virginia.
ALEXANDER PORTERFIELD. Winchester, Nov. 23—1m
W. S. NICHOLLS, BRIDGE STREET, GEORGE TOWN, HAS received, and is now offering for sale a very large and general as- sortment of FALL and WINTER GOODS, consisting of superfine and second Cloths, and Cassimeres, Con- stitution Cords, Velvets and Velveteens, Calicoes, Cambrics and Dimities, Lon- don Hats, Flannels, Coatings and Blan- kets, French and Italian Plaid and Plain Silks, Silk Velvets, Irish and German Linen, India Muslins of every descrip- tion, with almost every article attached to the Dry Good business, which he will sell for cash as low as any person in town. November 11—3w
WEISKOPFF AND KELLER, CONFECTIONERS, Respectfully inform the ladies and gentlemen of George Town and the city of Washington, that they can be supplied with every kind of CAKE, of the very first quality. Ornaments for Tables, of the most elegant form, and in the newest style. Ice Creams, Jellies of all kinds, on the shortest notice. They keep always on hand, Cordials of every kind, excellent in quality, and genuine, such as Noyeau, Orange, Ra- tina, &c. &c. High street, George Town, ? November, 11—tf
SALE BY AUCTION.
MRS. SOMERVILLE not having procured Boarders, intends selling a part of her HOUSEHOLD FUR- NITURE , on Saturday the 28th inst. at 11 o'clock in the forenoon, consisting of Bedsteads, Bedding, Tables, Chairs, &c. &c. A credit of 60 days will be given for all sums above 20 dollars, the purchasers giving negotiable paper with approved endorsers.
S. SPEAKE, Auct. N. B. will be RENTED to a Private Family 3 or 4 rooms with a Kitchen and Garden, next door to the Office of the National Intelligencer, on moderate terms. Enquire of DAVID SOMERVILLE. Nov. 23—2t.
NEW POLITICAL PAPER.
WEEKLY REGISTER OF POLI- TICS AND NEWS." The gentlemen of Congress, and others, who are inclined to patro- nize this work, are respectfully inform- ed that a subscription paper is lodged in the hands of P. Magruder, Esq. clerk to the House of Representatives. Mr. Mather (of the Senate) will re- ceive the names of gentlemen of that body, who may be disposed to patronize the Register, &c. J. B. COLVIN. November 13.
P. MAURO Takes the liberty to inform his Friends, the Members of Congress, and the Inhabitants of the city in ge- neral, that he has lately returned from a journey to Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York, with a LARGE supply of the best and choicest GROCERIES, WINES, SPIRITS, CORDIALS, FRUITS, PRESERVES, SPICES, PICKLES, &c. And also, with a large and well se- lected assortment of DRY & FANCY GOODS, which he offers for sale at his store ad- joining Mr. Thomas W. Pairo, west of the Seven Buildings, by wholesale and retail at very moderate terms. October 30—tf.
WILL be sold at Public Auction , on the premises, on Monday the 30th of November next, part of Lot number 4, in square 78, being 28 feet front, near the Western Market, and extending back about 147 feet to an alley. There is erected upon this lot, a good Brick Building covering the whole front, with a good Kitchen and enclosure, and was formerly occupied by Dr. Bullus. As the property is well known, nothing further descriptive is thought necessary. Washington, October 30—tds
NEW STORE.
HENRY O. DYER has opened in his new BRICK STORE in Bridge street, betwixt Elisha and Romulus Riggs's stores, and second door from John Cox, a large and handsome assort- ment of FALL & WINTER GOODS, all of the latest importations; among them many Fancy articles; he has also, a very handsome assortment of super- fine Cloths and Fancy Cassimeres and Waistcoatings, and a large assortment of very fine 7 8th and 4 4th Irish Linens and 5 4th sheetings, all of which he will sell uncommonly low for cash. George Town, November 11—2w
SPERMACETI CANDLES
And winter Strained SPERMACETI OIL of superior quality, from the first Ma- nufactory in the United States, with a few barrels of strained Oil of a superior quality for the use of Curriers, just re- ceived and for sale, by JOHN GOULDING, Who has on hand a choice selection of excellent Liquors fit for immediate use, to be sold cheap for cash. George Town, November 11—1m
BURAS AND BEALL.
WOOLLEN drapers, men's mer- cers, and tailors, New-Jersey Av- enue, opposite the Secretary of the Navy's, respectfully inform the public that they have commenced business in the above line, where they will endeav- or to give satisfaction—they have on hand a fresh supply of the most fash- ionable goods, suitable for the approach- ing season, all fresh and of the very best quality. N. B. Regimentals and naval uni- forms made in the most elegant and fashionable stile with neatness and dis- patch. October 23—tf.
ST. ANDREWS SOCIETY.
The Anniversary Meeting of the St. Andrews Society, will be held at Rhodes's tavern on Monday the 30th inst. at 4 o'clock, P. M. By order of the Society, J. MURDOCH, Sec. November, 25—3t
TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN away from Freestone Point, near Dumfries, on Sunday the 17th of last month, a Negro Man, named ANDREW, the property of SARAH FOUCHEE, in Prince William county, and hired of her until the end of the year. He had a pass for three days, being Whitsunday Holidays. Andrew is about 21 years of age, 5 feet 9 inches high, a black complexion; has a scar near the corner of his eye, is a little cross eyed, and has a forward, impudent countenance. Any person who will apprehend and secure him in gaol, so that the subscri- ber, living near Dumfries, may get him again, shall receive the above reward. JOHN STONE. Prince William county, June 27. N. B. All persons are forbid harbor- ing him, or conveying him away by land or water.
SUBSCRIPTIONS for the Richmond Enquirer will be received at the Post Office, in Gerge-Town. The terms are 3 dollars a year, paid in advance. Gentlemen residing in George-Town or the City of Washington, who are in ar- rears for the Enquirer will please to call and pay off the balances against them. Receipts will be given by D. WILEY. October 28.
LINDSAY'S HOTEL.
The Subscriber has taken that well calculated house on the Capitol Hill. Late occupied by Mr. Frost formerly by Mr. Stelle—Where he intends to open a Tavern on the 24th October. Those gentlemen who may favor him with their Custom may rely on every attention in the Power of the Public's devoted Servant. GEO. W. LINDSAY. N. B.—EIGHT or TEN BOARDERS may be conveniently accommodated. October 19—tf
ROSS AND GETTY.
In addition to a Large and General Assortment of GROCERIES , have for sale at their store next door to the Union Tavern George Town, Genuine Old Madeira, Sicily Madeira, } Sherry, } Particular Teneriffe, } Old Port in hogsheads } and in bottles, } Lisbon, } Malaga, } Corsica, } Claret & Fontinac, } Cognac, Bordeaux, Peach, and Apple Brandy, Jamaica, Antigua, and New England Rum, Holland and Country Gin, Irish and Country Whiskey, Crab Apple Cider, in hogsheads and bottles, French Cordials and Sweet-Meats of different kinds. Olives, Capers, Anchovies, Salmon, Mackarel, Cod-fish, and smoked Herrings. By the Schooner Fair American, cap- tain Clements from New York and the sloop Unity, captain Hand from Phila- delphia, besides many other articles in the Grocery Line, they have received a quantity of CHEESE, Currants, Span- ish Segars of an excellent quality; best winter strained Spermaceti Oil, Mould and Dip'd Candles, &c. &c. November 6—tf
LAND FOR SALE.
I WILL sell for cash, or exchange for Dry Goods or Groceries, on moderate terms, the following described prop- erty. A Lot of Ground in George Town, on Washington and Gay streets, front- ing the former 120 and the latter 60 feet. The situation of this lot is desirable, and taking into view the rapid growth of the town, is considered as being valua- ble. Also a Tract of unimproved LAND, in Monongalia county Virginia, contain- ing 1003 acres, contiguous to the navi- gable water of Cheat river. The soil is inferior to none in that part of the coun- try. The production of the land can be conveyed to Pittsburgh in two days, where a sure and ready sale is always to be obtained. The public road from this to Clarks- burg Virginia, runs through it, from thence to Marietta, Chillicothe, &c. Any person disposed to purchase or barter, may know the terms by appli- cation to the subscriber. ALEXANDER SUTER, Corner of High and Bridge streets, George Town. November 18—1m
FOR SALE.
HAS for Sale, at the store lately oc- cupied by Mr. Edgar Patterson, corner of High & Bridge streets George Town, a large Collection of valuable BOOKS, with a general assortment of STATIONERY—also a variety of Fancy Articles, all of which will be sold low for cash. Just received, and now opening for sale, Elegant Gold and Silver Epaulets, Gold and Silver Lace, Gold Cord, Officers crimson silk sashes, of super- ior quality, True Washingtonian, Jeffersonian, and Madisonian RAZORS. November 18—1m
FIFTY DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN AWAY from the subscriber on the 13th inst. two NEGROES, one a boy of about 17 years old, named JACK, the other a girl of about 18 years old, named PEGGY, bought of Isaac D. Hodges, deceased, raised on the planta- tion of Joseph Hodges the father of Isaac Hodges, Prince Georges Cy. All persons are hereby forbid victualling, harboring, or employing the said Ne- groes, and any person delivering the same to the subscriber shall be entitled to receive the above reward. JOSEPH WHEATON. November 20—tf
FOR SALE.
THREE LOTS situate on the Penn- sylvania avenue, known in the plan of the city, by Nos. 8, 9, 13 and 14, in square 353. These lots will be sold separate on very low terms, and are well worth the attention of builders, being front lots. For particulars apply to the subscriber, who will show the lots and a plan of them. SAMUEL SPEAKE. If the above mentioned lots are not disposed of by private contract before Thursday the 26th instant they will be sold at Public Auction at 12 o'clock on that day at Mr. Rhodes's tavern. November 20—3t
JOHN GOULDING,
HAS for Sale, Rea 1900 Old Madeira, } Sicily Madeira, } Sherry, Lisbon, } Port, & Bucello's } Claret in bottles, large and small boxes, from 6 to 12 dollars per dozen, Cognac Brandy, Peach and Apple brandy, Jamaica spirit, Holland gin, Whiskey in barrels, 5th proof, Loaf and Lump Sugar in barrels, Porter and Ale in bds. and in barrels, Together with most other Wines and Spirits generally used in this part of the country—Also, Ravens Duck, Sperma- ceti Candles, and oil of the very first quality, with sundry other articles, all of which he is determined to sell low for money or on short credit to his kind and punctual customers. Cash purchasers will find it their in- terest to call on him. He earnestly requests all those in- debted to him to cause payment to be made to him soon; also those indebted to him for Postage since last year and the beginning of the present. Georgetown, October 23—tf
NEW STORE.
LEWIS ZIMMER near the NAVY YARD, begs leave to inform the public that he has for sale a general as- sortment of DRY GOODS & GROCERIES , among which are the following articles, viz. Bath Coatings, Cloth, Waistcoat- ing, Velveteen, fashionable Cord, cot- ton and worsted Hose, Blankets, Flannel, Banje, Calico, Shawls, checked Hand- kerchiefs, Irish and German Linen, Shoes, men and womens list Shoes, Nee- dles, pocket & framed Looking Glasses, Combs, Scissors, Penknives, &c. Also—Old Hyson, } Young Hyson, } Hyson Skin, } Spinning Cotton, Spanish Indigo, Allum, Coffee, Gunpowder and Shot, Butter, Cheese, Pork, Soap, dipped and mould Candles, Spanish and country Segars, French Brandy, Holland Gin, New Eng- land Rum, Whiskey, Lisbon, Port, Ten- neriffe and Port Wine, Confectionary, &c. all of which he will sell low for cash. November 20—3t
VALUABLE PROPERTY,
FOR SALE. WILL be offered to the highest bidder at the house of Mr. M. Semme's in this town, on Monday the 30th No- vember next, such parts of the following property as may not be disposed of prior to that day, viz. several improved and unimproved water and other Lots , and parts of Lots in George Town and its additions—Lot 7 in square 79, and 7, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, in square 569 city of Washington, together with the following lands—the Vale 403 1-4 acres; Dry meadow 34 acres; Good Fellowship 21 acres; Mount Airy 59 1-2; part of Mount Airy, 5 1-2 acres; Below Am- sterdam 12 1-2; acres Burn's Neglect 81 acres; Prospect 167 1-2; and part Knowds Disappointment 51-2 ac. in the district; New Harbor 83 acres; I Be- lieve it will be 9 acres; Little Spot 12 1-4 ac. Montgomery & Frederick county Maryland—Nichols Delight 60 1-2 acres, Last Shift 100 acres; the resurvey of Cresop's neglect 204 3-4 acres, and Ja- cobs Ladder 300 acres, in Alleghany county Maryland, and 5132 acres in Randolph county Virginia. Sale to com- mence at 4 o'clock P. M. and to continue from day to day till the whole is sold— Terms of sale, time agreeable to the amount purchased, to be made known on the day of sale, where plots of the whole will be shewn. J. M. BEATTY, C. A. BEATTY. George Town, October 26—tdos
JOSEPH WHEATON
takes this method of informing his friends and the public that he has opened an OFFICE in his own HOUSE in F street near the Office of Discount and Deposit, where he proposes to carry on the business of BROKER & COMMISSION MERCHANT. IN THEIR VARIOUS BRANCHES, and would therefore solicit a share of public patronage, assuring, that such commands as he may be favored with in his line of business shall be gratefully received and faithfully and promptly executed. TO LET, One large 3 story Brick HOUSE, new and completely finished in an elegant stile, in an advantageous situation. FOR SALE—Three well finished two story Brick Houses on Pennsylvania avenue, and a number of City Lots in good situations for improvement, on very reasonable terms. All kinds of Stocks bought and sold. Washington city, Nov. 16—
20 DOLLARS REWARD.
RAN AWAY from the subscriber in August last, Negro CHARLES—he is a straight well made black man, about 26 years of age, 5 feet 9 or 10 inches high; has lost some of his fore teeth; is remarkably polite and much of a gallant. The above reward will be paid to any person who will bring him home or lodge him any jail so that I get him again. WM. B. BEANES. Upper Marlbo', Jan. 9—tawtf
E. OLIVER,
Has just returned from Philadelphia, with a handsome collection of the most fashionable English and French MILLINERY & FANCY GOODS. Among which are the following arti- cles:— Beaver hats and bonnets, Velvet do. do. Lace caps, Chenelle net do. Bugle net do. Feathers and wreathing, Artificial flowers, frosted and others, Wreaths, Gold combs, Pearl and gold mounted do, Plain do. Necklaces and earings, Laced handkerchiefs spencers and tuckers, Cords and tassels, and sashes, Hat-bands, Hair-bands, hair lace, and hair plat, Imperial chip hats and bonnets, Pressed do. do. New fashioned straw and Leghorn hats and bonnets, Best Lyons ribbons, damask'd, of new patterns, A variety of trimmings, of new patterns, for dresses, Gold and silver spangles, bullion, thread, cord, and cord & tassels, Angola and Cashmere shawls, Fashionable twilled silks for dresses Pe- lices and mantles, Superfine pelice coatings, Best English velvets, of all colors, Do. plushes, White satins, mantuas and Florencé, Colored and cross barred do. A large and general assortment of ladies and gentlemen's gloves, Misses do. A general assortment of muslins, Muffs and tippets, A neat assortment of Murray's shoes, Wadding, Military plumes, &c. &c. Together with a general assortment of DRY GOODS. Georgetown, Nov.—3w
ELISHA RIGGS,
Has imported by the late arrivals, from London and Liverpool, via Baltimore and Alexandria. EIGHTY-NINE PACKAGES, FALL GOODS. And now opened at his New Store Bridge street—which being direct from the Manufactories, will be sold very low, by Wholesale or Retail for cash, or to punctual customers only at short dates—(liberal allowances, will be made to Retailers or Purcha- sers)—Among them are, 9 bales superfine cloths, cassimeres, coatings and fries, 21 do. flannels, blankets, kerseys, cottons and plaices, 6 cases checks, dimities, Manchester, and cords, 3 trunks upholsterers furniture, and hatters trimmings, 3000 lbs. London sein twine, in casks of 350 lbs. each, 10 boxes and 3 casks, tin, plate, cut- lery, and buttons, 6 cases gentlemen's hats, and um- brellas, 8 trunks silk, cotton, Angola and worsted hosiery, 3 bales carpets, carpeting and hearth rugs, ALSO, A large supply of cheap Irish linens, calicoes, gingham, shirting muslins, coarse linens and India muslins.
FANCY GOODS.
Ladies pelice cloths, velvets, silk pe- lices, lace caps, lace handkerchiefs, artificial flowers, fancy beaver bonnets, hats, feathers and cords, head orna- ments, laces, silk and set buttons, cos- settees, satin shoes, elegant silk hosi- ery, sleeves and gloves, fancy muslins, short dancing dresses, cashmere and damask shawls, fancy silks, Shawbia muslins, ribbons, linen cambric & lace shades. Harwells, celebrated, Patent Sus- penders, for ease, elegance, strength, &c. exceeds any in use. Cash will be given for 40 shares of Columbia stock—Apply as above. George Town, Nov. 20—F&M2m
PUBLIC NOTICE.
THE members of the Medical Facul- ty of the state of Maryland, resid- ing in Saint Mary's, Charles, and Calvert counties will please to attend at the Cool Springs, in Saint Mary's county on the third Monday in November next where a meeting of the Faculty will be held pursuant to a resolution of the Medical and Chirurgical Faculty of Maryland, at their last biennial Congress in Baltimore, directing Medical associations to be formed throughout the state in districts, which districts were appointed by the resolution—the first district comprising Saint Mary's, Charles, and Calvert counties. The object of this meeting will be to appoint a President, Secretary and Treasurer for the association as well as to form a constitution and bye laws and to fix upon the future place and times of meeting. Cool Springs, October 29—wtf
By order of the Orphan's Court of Montgomery county, will be exposed to Public Sale , on Monday the 21st day of December next at the Dwelling Plantation of the late Absalom Beado , a parcel of valuable Negroes, Horses, Cattle, Sheep and Hogs, Household and Kitchen Furniture, Plantation Utensils, &c. also a quantity of Corn and Corn Fodder, &c. on a credit of nine months, the purchaser giving bond with app- roved security bearing interest from the day of sale. The sale to commence at 10 o'clock on the day aforesaid and to continue from day to day until the whole is sold. J. BEDDO, surviving Executor of Absalom Beado. November 16—w4t