The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1806-01-29 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER, AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VI.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
No. DCCCXXVIII.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29, 1806.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
JANUARY 23.
DEBATE ON THE DEFENCE OF OUR PORTS AND HARBOURS.
(CONTINUED.)
MR. SMITH. I am well pleased the subject has been thus brought before the committee, as it affords the first opportunity we have had of knowing the opinions of each other on it. I am of opinion that our time will not be ill-spent, in proceeding further in this discussion, although I shall ultimately be in favor of the committee's rising. Gentlemen were not correct when they told us, that although we had set seven weeks, we had done nothing with regard to the differences of the U. States with foreign nations. I believe we have done something, and I trust that it will prove effectual. There is one strong reason on my mind why we should not decide now on the subject before us. This relates to the ground on which we may decide this question. I mean a subject not yet brought forward, [the conduct of Britain] in relation to which it was my wish to have made a motion before we entered on the business now under consideration. From the issue of that business, we may be able to decide what will be necessary in this. If it shall be thought necessary to go to war, one system of measures will be necessary. If it shall be determined to pursue a different course, a different system will be required. Our minds must remain in a doubtful state until this decision is made. The subject now before us regards principally one nation. What do we complain of? A violation of our neutral rights. And yet that subject is not at present before us. If on that subject we are determined to pursue peaceable measures, our course will be very different from that which would follow from our assuming a warlike attitude. In my opinion it is best that the committee should rise, and this business be suspended till we shall decide on the ground we mean to take with that nation. I will go further and say, that it is not my opinion that we are in that unhappy state that will oblige us to go to war with her, and if this shall appear to be the opinion of a majority of the House, it may save us from a great expenditure on the object now under consideration.
MR. MACON. I agree with the gentleman from Georgia in the propriety of the committee's rising. We are called upon for 150,000 dollars and for other sums. In requiring time for information, the gentleman demands nothing which I think unfair, or that can prove injurious. Were I satisfied myself with the report, or so important a question I would not refuse time to others to satisfy themselves. Do gentlemen mean to make others give votes before they are prepared? Is it proper thus to spend the money of the nation? With regard to the expense of a 74 gun ship, we are furnished on that subject with an estimate. So, with regard to the expense of fortifying our ports and harbors, may not the secretary of war give a similar estimate? It would not, it is true, be binding upon us, but it would be the information of a man whose duty it is to be well informed on the subject, and who I believe to be well informed. Let him give us this information, and we shall then be well enough informed to judge for ourselves. Let us see the whole length of the route before we begin the journey; before we undertake it let us be satisfied we can perform it. In this way we shall take the most direct course, and the business will be sooner done than by voting on it at present. The committee have given us an estimate of the expense of building a 74. On this subject there is a difference of opinion—so also is there with regard to the defending the port of New York. On this point the head of the war department may be able to decide. He probably may have had an examination made into the possibility of defending it. He may possibly be of opinion, that it may be defended by fortifications supported by a naval armament. Before, however, we take any steps, I hope we shall get all the information we can. I have seen such a crisis as this before; and if the statute books be consulted, it will be found that at least seven weeks were then suffered to elapse before any thing material was done. I am not of opinion that it is sound policy to pass laws as fast as we can. On the contrary, I believe the less legislation the better. As to the recommendation of the President, I agree with the gentleman from Maryland. I am not sent here to obey his mandates, or to carry into effect what he recommends; but to obey the judgment which God gave me, and that I shall do whoever is president. Is the 150,000 dollars contemplated only as an entering wedge into this business. The same thing was attempted once before; but, then, to use an appropriate expression, the thing would not maul. I hope the committee will rise, and the subject be recommitted. I hope the select committee who
brought in this resolution will agree to this course. They have had a full communication with the secretary of war on it. If they are satisfied, charity and good neighborhood should induce them to allow the same privilege to others; particularly as it is agreed that this subject is of more importance, and may interest the people in a higher degree, than any other which can come before the House this session.
MR. DAWSON. An appeal is made to our candor, which I am sorry I am unable to comply with, and which it seems to me, the gentleman who has just spoken, has but little reason to make. Every gentleman of the House will recollect that on the first topic of the message, the honorable gentleman declared that he was not for doing anything, and yet he now calls for information. I do presume that this information can have no influence on his mind. To what, then, are we to ascribe his desire for it, but from his wish that nothing may be done?
The gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Nelson) says that if the sum required for the defence of our ports and harbors will be enormous, he shall be against it, but if otherwise, he may be in favor of it. That gentleman will see in the resolution that the sum contemplated to be expended is only 150,000 dollars, and that therefore, it can operate no additional burthen on the people. These words, indeed, sound very well; gentlemen may talk of burthens imposed on the people, but they know that this measure cannot produce any new burthens.
MR. MACON. When I was up before, I explicitly said that I should confine myself to the question under debate. I have no objection to say that I am against the resolution; not meaning, however, to say, that facts which may be at present unknown to me, may not induce me hereafter to alter my opinion; but I confined myself to the resolution under consideration.
The Chairman remarked that gentlemen must confine themselves to the question before them.
MR. N. WILLIAMS. Having been on the committee who brought in the report, and obtained satisfactory information myself, I should be very sorry to deny the same information to others. Indeed, the turn of the discussion seems to require more information. As, I before said, the committee did not go into an extensive view of the subject. They thought it only necessary at present to provide for the repair of decayed fortifications, and the fitting up some additional guns. The sum reported was not with a view to erect new fortifications. This every one will perceive to be unattainable by so small an appropriation, when he considers the numerous ports and harbors in the U. States.
MR. G. W. CAMPBELL. I would not trouble the committee with a single word, were it not for the impression attempted to be produced, that those who call for information wish to do nothing. I hope that the members of this committee who differ from other members as to proper measures to be pursued, will not therefore be considered less friendly to maintaining our rights, or as less ready to protect them. I hope that merely because seven weeks have elapsed, without adopting any effectual measures, we shall not be considered as hostile to their adoption. I believe with some gentlemen who have already expressed their sentiments, that we have not sufficient information to act upon. The only question is, whether we shall appropriate a sum of money for the protection of our ports and harbors. It is not whether we shall protect them, as that is already provided for by law. By an act passed in the year 1794, the President is authorised to protect certain specified harbors. Before I make an appropriation, I wish to know what has been done under this law; and to know the opinions of well informed persons as to its effect. If, on correct information it appears, that they can be protected by the appropriation of a reasonable sum, I have no objection to grant it; but I am not prepared to say 150,000 dollars will answer any reasonable purpose.
MR. COOK. Although I am in favor of the resolution, yet I am also in favor of the committee rising, as I believe the information we shall receive, will unite every member of the House in favor of it.
MR. SMITH said he just rose to explain some remarks which had fallen from him, that had been misunderstood. When he alluded to a particular business, he had reference to nothing of a secret nature. Sometime since a business, (relative to the invasion of neutral rights by British cruisers) was referred to the committee of Ways and Means, which ought, in his opinion, never to have been referred to that committee. It involved a great national question, which was properly the province of a committee of the whole on the state of the union. From the deranged state of the Committee of Ways and Means, three members being absent, nothing could be done in the business. His wish was to discharge them from the further consideration of it.
MR. DANA. If I understood the
subject in the same light with some gentlemen who have expressed their sentiments, I should agree to the rising of the committee. They consider it as a question of the sum which we shall now appropriate for the defence of our ports and harbors. I consider it as the simple question, whether we are disposed to appropriate any thing towards that purpose. With regard to the proper sum to be appropriated, I allow that we want information. I admit that we want information, not only on this subject, but likewise on some others of no small importance. But I consider this committee as having now the general principle before them, and I did suppose, that on the general principle we should all agree. I applaud the independence of the gentleman from Maryland and North Carolina; holding the opinions they do, their conduct is certainly correct. But when the President recommended the taking a firm and manly attitude, I did consider his recommendation a strong argument for the prompt co-operation of the legislature. For in whatever different lights, different gentlemen may be disposed to consider the character of the executive, even his enemies have never charged him with a disposition to take measures of too warlike a nature. But it is said we have not funds. The President, however, has informed us, that after meeting all the ordinary demands of the government, a million will remain unappropriated. We have heard in this debate of millions appropriated, but I may say, no millions have been appropriated. The only appropriation we have made, is to supply the deficiency in the naval appropriation for the last year. I have been charged with saying we have done nothing. I did not say we have done nothing. only said we had not published any thing which we have done—
The Chairman called to order.
MR. DANA said a few words more against the rising of the committee, observing that the most decisive argument, perhaps, in favor of the motion, was their having passed the usual hour of adjournment.
MR. ELMER. Though the usual hour of adjournment is at hand, I hope the committee will not rise. I am always for giving information when it can be of any use; but on a general principle like that under consideration, we surely cannot want information. The only question before us is, whether we shall adopt one feature of national defence by fortifying our harbors. The committee have proposed three modes of defence, of which this is one. Gentlemen say it is necessary to know what particular harbors are susceptible of defence. But surely they may say whether they will do any thing, before they are acquainted with all these details. It is only the abstract question, whether we will do any thing, that is now before us.
MR. FISK. I hope the committee will rise. I was one of the committee who brought in the report, and am in favor of the resolution now under consideration. I think unanimity desirable on this subject, and although we have been seven weeks here without acting upon it, yet I think it best to delay it for a short time, to insure that unanimity which will be an efficient instrument in our favor. I am not prepared to say we have done nothing. I am not prepared to say that to authorise a detachment of 100,000 militia is a mere thing on paper. I am prepared to say that if our enemies should invade us, we are able to drive them out of Canada, Nova Scotia, the Floridas, and every foot of ground they hold on the continent. I hope that the committee will rise, and that every source of information will be explored, that we may ensure the unanimous vote of the House.
The question was then taken on the rising of the committee, and carried—Ayes 86.
The committee accordingly rose, and the chairman reported that they had come to no resolution.
MR. EARLY moved that the committee should be discharged from the further consideration of the report, with a view of referring it to a select committee, with instructions to make the enquiry he had stated.
MR. J. C. SMITH suggested that the most correct and usual course was for the House, and not a select committee, to call on the President for information.
MR. EARLY declared himself obliged to the gentleman for his suggestion, and withdrew his motion, with the view of moving in the House the resolution to the effect he had stated.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24.
MR. EARLY. I rise to comply with the promise I made yesterday. I have waited some time before offering this resolution, in hopes that the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Dawson) might have taken his seat in the House. I regret that he has not taken his seat; as I should wish him to be present at the time of offering the resolutions which I now hold in my hand, and which I will read.
Resolved, That the President of the United States cause to be laid before
this House any information which may be in possession of the executive department, relative to the state and condition of the fortifications which may have been erected within the several ports and harbors of the United States; and also the amount of monies which has been expended on each, as well as the probable expense of completing the same; and also any information of which said department may be possessed relative to the practicability of defending by land batteries such ports and harbors, as have, by any former law, been directed to be fortified.
Resolved, That the President cause to be laid before this House a statement exhibiting the amount of money which has been disbursed on account of the navy in each year, since its establishment, & stating particularly the cost of each frigate.
Before I offer these resolutions, I will take the liberty of making a few observations in explanation of some things said by me yesterday, and the replies made to them by several gentlemen. I observed that we were not possessed of that kind of information on the subject matter of the resolution then under consideration, that would enable us to form a correct and judicious decision on it; that we had no data on which to estimate the expense of the proposed measures, or their efficacy, if adopted. When I took the liberty of intimating a doubt of their efficacy, I did not mean to be understood as doubting the physical possibility of so fortifying our ports and harbors by land batteries as to afford them an effectual protection. But I meant to say that such was their physical situation as to require a quantum of revenue beyond the resources of the nation. I have no doubt but that it is completely in our power to defend New York and our other harbors, if we only possess the pecuniary means. I have no doubt that we might with ease make a Cronsadt of it, but I doubt whether any gentleman of the House would be prepared to adopt the principle, which has prevailed at Cronsadt and other places, and to the extent to which it would carry us. I doubt whether any gentlemen would be prepared to adopt the course pursued by the French government, with regard to Cherbourg and along her coast; a course which, after the treaty of Amiens, they were obliged to suspend from the inadequacy of their resources.
I beg leave to state one or two other additional things. When I suggested the propriety of obtaining information; it was said, that my object was evidently procrastination; that it was unbecoming in the House, after so much time had been already consumed, to attempt further procrastination; for the sentiment of the nation was before us; it dictated our course, and if we hesitated to pursue, the public indignation would light upon us. In my opinion, all that can be deduced from what has been demonstrated the sentiment of the nation, in this and other cases, is this—That in this country, where the government and the nation are the same, the nation will repose its confidence in the government, and pledge themselves to support those measures which the government may adopt. All then that follows is, that the nation will repose its confidence on this, as on other trying occasions, in the government. But does it follow that, because the nation reposes unlimited confidence in this government, that the latter is to rush blindly into measures without a mature consideration of them? On the contrary I apprehend, in proportion to this confidence, there is a responsibility in the government not to abuse it; and notwithstanding the high degree of confidence reposed in this instance in the government, we ought not to doubt, because the experience of former times proves it, that when this confidence shall be abused, the people will revoke it. In my opinion, at this time we are more bound to be cautious in exercising the powers reposed in us, than those who in former times held the reins of government; because they had not the experience that we have, and because the lesson exhibited on that occasion shows, that confidence improperly used will be withdrawn by the people. Do gentlemen mean to be understood as intimating that it is our duty, without enquiring into the extent or the grounds on which we proceed, to embark headlong into any measures which the President may recommend, and which they may consider the confidence of the people pledged to support.
With regard to the second resolution, I will add a word or two. The report on which this discussion is founded, although I believe not so intended, is calculated to be, as I apprehend, a decoy. If we adopt it, we shall first begin with a small appropriation, and we shall afterwards be called upon to go the whole length that shall be deemed necessary to carry the measures we shall have taken into full and complete effect; and we shall be told, unless we appropriate enough money to carry them into this full and complete effect, all that we have done will be lost. Sir, we have some warning monuments against pursuing such a policy. If I am not mistaken, this very house in which we legislate is
one of these warning monuments; the fortification of our ports and harbors is another; and unless I much mistake, the appropriations which we have heretofore made for our naval armaments is also an awful warning. It is a guard against such a system. It is a guard against being decoyed into such a conduct that I now offer these resolutions. It is that we may see the whole ground before us; and that, in the language of the honorable speaker, we may see the whole extent of the road. It is true the committee has given us the estimate of the cost of a 74 gun ship. An estimate! Yes, Sir, a naval estimate! And is it come to this—after the experience of this country in naval affairs, that this House is to proceed on a naval estimate. I hope not. I hope we shall have something more substantial; that we shall have the actual cost, and not a mere estimate.
MR. J. C. SMITH. As the House is not much pressed in point of time, it is not perhaps to be regretted that the honorable gentleman has, on this occasion, given us a long speech; but it is to be regretted that he did not feel the want of information at an earlier period of the session.
MR. DANA. It is unfortunate that the hon. gentleman from Georgia should assume a cause either too feeble to be sustained, or that it should be addressed to a body that he imagines incapable of feeling the force of argument. I presume that in deciding on measures in this House, the motives of particular gentlemen are not to guide our deliberations; but the intrinsic merit of the measures themselves, and if they can be supported by strong and fair argument, no gentleman would think of appealing to our passions for their support. Whatever may have been my opinion on the general course of measures pursued by the present administration, is not now the question. The only enquiry proper for us to pursue, relates to the merits of the proposition before us. On the general subject of information, if the gentleman really desires to obtain it, there can be no exception to the call, however we may regret its not having been made earlier. When we, yesterday, considered the report, it was in the general principle whether any fortifications should be erected or repaired, without undertaking to say to what extent the business should go. I think we have abundant information to justify our voting on this principle, although when we descend into the details, we may require more particular information.
MR. EARLY. I have but a word of reply to the gentleman from Connecticut, who first addressed you, who has expressed his regret at my not having made an earlier call for this information; and that is, that I have made the call as early as the subject matter of the report came into discussion. It was never before yesterday discussed, and, at the earliest period of the debate, I avowed my want of information.
[Some conversation here took place between Messrs. D. R. Williams, Clark, and Crowninshield on the amendments subsequently made in the details of the resolution.]
When MR. DAWSON said, that not being in the House at the time these resolutions were offered, he regretted that he had not heard the reasons assigned by the mover in support of them. He must, however, be permitted to observe, that it was made the annual duty of the secretary of the navy, which duty he performed, to lay before the House these several items of information, called for by the resolutions. He could, therefore only consider delay as the effect they were calculated to produce. The simple resolution before the committee yesterday was, do the ports and harbors of the U. S. require protection? Has not every gentleman declared this to be the fact? Has it not been enforced by every paper in the U. S.? Does not every day's mail bring us the public sentiment, and is it not likewise enforced by the first authority in the nation? The general necessity of the measure can then admit of no doubt. The next question then is, is the sum recommended by the committee too large? I believe, said Mr. Dawson, every gentleman will concur with me in opinion, that it is much smaller than was expected. If these are facts, what can the object be but further delay? It can only be one of two alternatives, either to carry the resolutions calling for information, and thereby from the time which will elapse before it can be received, to give the whole business the go-by; or it must arise from a want of confidence in the executive in the disbursement of the monies appropriated. I say the object must arise from either one or the other of these two causes. I hold it my duty here to state that the committee on their first meeting, directed their chairman to write to the secretary of war and the secretary of the navy for information to guide their decisions. The secretary of war informed us that the enquiry we called for could not be given in less than seven or eight weeks, and I venture to affirm that if the resolutions are agreed to, the subject will not be taken up again for that length of time. Is this the wish of gentlemen? I trust that if it is their wish, a majority of this House

will be found to hold different opinions, and will be in favor of proceeding, without delay, in a business so interesting to the public welfare.
MR. D. R. WILLIAMS. As far as I, a fallible man, can understand the infallible ideas of the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Dawson) I must disclaim the motives he ascribes to the friends of these resolutions, and declare my total ignorance of any gentleman being influenced by them. Surely that hon. gentleman is not so devoid of charity, as to wish me to vote blindfolded on a subject which he allows to be highly important. What is the verbal communications of the secretary of war to me? They may have been satisfactory to the committee who heard them; but they surely cannot enlighten those who are altogether unacquainted with them. I hope we shall not proceed with a degree of precipitation that will oblige us to act blindfold.
MR. EARLY. The gentleman from Virginia has told us that the very information we now call for, as far as it applies to the first resolution, was verbally given by the secretary of war to the select committee. The gentleman from Virginia could not have offered a more forcible argument for adopting the resolution. What! Is this House to decide on the private information of a head of department, given to a committee, when that information too is verbal? Is this the way in which the funds of the nation are to be pledged to an incalculable extent, in the furtherance of measures, whose success is at best problematical? I presume not. Before they are adopted, we ought to be possessed of official documents; and if, after we have acted on the information we have received, we shall find it incorrect, we shall know whom to blame, and on whom to fix the responsibility. But would that be the case, when information was verbally given by a head of department to a committee and verbally delivered by that committee to the House? Surely not. Was it ever heard of, that the House should act in a measure of such magnitude on the verbal communications of the head of a department, verbally delivered to the House?
MR. DAWSON said, the gentleman was mistaken in point of fact. He had not said a word against the resolution.
MR. EARLY begged pardon for his mistake. He had, however, always understood a gentleman to be opposed to a motion when he spoke against it.
After amending the resolution, by adding after the words, within the United States , "the territories thereof," it was agreed to—Ayes 88—when the second resolution, was also agreed to—Ayes 81, after inserting in lieu of frigates , "armed ships or other vessels built or purchased on account of the U. States," and adding to the resolution, "and also the amount of monies that has been expended on each navy yard."
MR. ELLIOT. I am very happy at the prospect of attaining the information called for in the resolution of the gentleman from Georgia, and I hope, before we have a final decision on the report of the select committee, we shall obtain some further information. Annexed to the report of the committee, I find the estimate of the secretary of the navy, of the expence of building a 74, and keeping her in service, and an estimate of the like kind relative to gun boats. This information is very valuable, as far as it goes. I do not perfectly agree with the gentleman from Georgia, as to the intrinsic value of a navy estimate. But I believe we ought to go on more solid ground than a navy estimate; and when our selection is to be made from various plans of defence, it is proper to obtain an estimate of the relative expence of each. It may, possibly, be the intention of a majority of this House, to vote several millions for the building of 74's—while they are disposed to suffer our present naval armament to remain idle. This may be the views of a majority of this House, but I am not yet convinced that it is. There appears to me to be a chasm in the details called for, to fill which I move the following resolution.
Resolved, That the Secretary of the navy be directed to lay before this House, estimates of the expence of repairing, and of the annual expence of manning, and of supporting in actual service the whole of the frigates and smaller vessels of war belonging to the U. States.
This resolution was agreed to without a division.
MR. DAWSON said, that believing the information called for in the resolution just agreed to, could not be had, without the previous lapse of a long time, and considering the state of the country, he held it his duty to move that the House should again resolve itself into a committee of the whole on the state of the union.
This motion having prevailed—Ayes 60—MR. GREGG took the chair.
The chairman stated, that when the committee before rose, the resolution under consideration was for appropriating 150,000 dollars for the better protection of our ports and harbors.
MR. THOMAS renewed the motion to strike out this sum, in order to leave it blank.
MR. CONRAD said he was at a loss to know how to act in this business. A few minutes ago we agreed to a call for information, and now we are required to give a vote in the dark. It was impossible for him, under these circumstances, to act understandingly on the subject. He must, therefore, move that the committee rise.
MR. SMITH hoped that the committee would rise, and that the business would be postponed for some time. He thought, from the beginning of this business, they had been proceeding incorrectly; that they should be going on in measures of protection, before they determin-
ed on the propriety of resorting to warlike measures, appeared to him to be beginning with the wrong end of the business. If they determined on peaceable measures, there would be no necessity for gun boats, or the defending our ports and harbors. If, on the contrary, measures of war were adopted, or such measures as would lead to war, there might be this necessity.
I do not, said Mr. S. certainly know, but as far as I have conversed with the members of this House, there is not a disposition to go to war. Why, then, pursue war measures? I hope the House will not be of opinion, that war is necessary; and if so, what reason is there at present for adopting warlike measures? Why go into details, whose fitness must depend on higher measures? When I say this, I assure the gentleman, if it shall be necessary to take measures of war, or measures leading to it, I shall be willing to adopt effectual measures. One thing is certain. That if we take such measures, we must go much further than the report of the select committee. Before this great question is decided, the determination of all subordinate matters will be useless. I therefore think it best that the committee should rise, and that the subject now under consideration should be laid asleep for some time.
The question being taken, the committee agreed to rise—Ayes 52—Noes 35.
When the chairman reported, that the committee of the whole House had had the state of the union under consideration, and had come to no resolution thereon.
Further extracts from An examination of the British Doctrine, which subjects to capture a neutral trade not often in time of peace.
TREATIES.
All writers on the law of nations, as well didactic as polemic, avail themselves, whenever they can, of the authority of Treaties.
Treaties may be considered under several relations to the law of nations, according to the several questions to be decided by them.
They may be considered as simply repeating or affirming the general law: they may be considered as making exceptions to the general law, which are to be a particular law between the parties themselves: they may be considered as explanatory of the law of nations, on points where its meaning is otherwise obscure or unsettled; in which case they are, first, a law between the parties themselves, and next, a sanction to the general law, according to the reasonableness of the explanation, and the number and character of the parties to it; lastly, Treaties may be considered as constituting a voluntary or positive law of nations.
Whether the stipulations in a treaty are to be considered as an affirmation or an exception, or an explanation, may sometimes appear on the face of the treaty: sometimes being naked stipulations, their character must be determined by resorting to other evidences of the law of nations. In other words, the question concerning the treaty must be decided by the law, not the question concerning the law by the treaty.
In the present case, it has been shown, from the sources generally allowed to be the most authentic, that the law of nations is violated by the principle asserted by Great Britain. It is a just inference, therefore, that every article in treaties contradicting that principle, is an affirmation and direct proof of the general law; and that any stipulation of the principle would, as an exception to the general law, be an indirect proof of it.
But supposing for a moment, the present case to belong to that class, in which the great oracles of the law of nations are obscure, or at variance among themselves, and in which, moreover, the practice of nations, not being uniform, is an unsatisfactory guide; and consequently, that the evidence of treaties were necessary in order to ascertain the law; still it will be found that the result of an appeal to that evidence is conclusive against the British pretension. It may be confidently affirmed, that on no point ever drawn into question, the evidence of Treaties was more uniform, more extensive, or more satisfactory.
Nay more; it may be affirmed that the treaties applicable to this case may fairly be considered in their relation to the law of nations last noticed; that is, as constituting a law of themselves. If, in any case, Treaties can be sufficiently general, sufficiently uniform, and of sufficient duration, to attest that general and settled concurrence of nations in a principle or rule of conduct among themselves, which amounts to the establishment of a general law; such an effect cannot reasonably be refused to the number and character of the treaties which are applicable to the present case.
That Treaties may amount to a law of nations, follows from the very definition of that law; which consists of those rules of conduct which reason deduces, as consonant to justice and common good, from the nature of the society existing among independent nations; with such definitions and modifications as may be established by general consent.
One evidence of general consent is general usage, which implies general consent.
Can treaties which express consent be an inferior evidence, where nothing on the face of the treaties, nor in any collateral authority on the law of nations is found to impair the evidence?
Treaties may indeed in one point of
view be considered as a higher authority than usage, when they have a generality and continuance which give to usage the authority of law; because all treaties involve a usage commensurate with the sphere in which they are obligatory. Whilst usage, therefore, implies consent; treaties imply the usage, at the same time that they express the consent of the parties to them.
But there is another point of view in which the influence of treaties, those at least of peace and of commerce, in modifying and defining the rules of public law applicable to periods of war, ought in preference to the influence of mere practice, to be promoted by all governments which respect justice and humanity, and by all jurists who aspire to the authority of commentators on that subject.
The law of nations, as derived from mere usage or practice during those periods, is evidenced for the most part by ex parte ordinances, issued by belligerent governments in the midst of the passions or policy of war; and by judicial decisions, also ex parte , and biased more or less by the same causes, if not by the interest also, which weighty individuals, or perhaps bodies of individuals have, in widening the field of predatory wealth.
Treaties are formed under very different circumstances. Those of peace imply that the hostile passions and pursuits have spent their force, and that a mutual spirit of liberality and accommodation have taken their place: Treaties of commerce again are necessarily founded in principles of reciprocal justice and interest, wholly at variance with the violent spirit of war: whilst in the negotiation of treaties of both kinds the respective efforts and interests of the parties form those mutual checks, require those mutual concessions, and involve those mutual appeals to a moral standard of right, which are most likely to make both parties converge to a just and reasonable conclusion. Nor is a sense of character without its effect on such occasions. Nations would not stipulate in the face of the world things, which each of them would separately do, in pursuit of its selfish objects.
It will accordingly be found, as might be expected, that the violent and cruel maxims of war, those still remaining, as well as those from time to time exploded, have had their origin and their continuance in the separate usages of belligerent nations, not in treaties; whilst on the other hand, it will be found that the reformation of those abuses has been the gradual work of treaties; that the spirit of treaties is, with few if any exceptions, at all times more just, more rational and more benevolent, than the spirit of the law derived from practice only; and consequently, that all further meliorations of the code of public law, are to be expected from the former, not the latter source; and consequently, again, that all enlightened friends to the happiness of nations ought to favor the influence of treaties on the great code by which their intercourse is to be regulated.
The authority of every treaty is to be considered as opposed to the principle asserted by Great Britain, where it either stipulates a general freedom of neutral commerce with a specification of exceptions to it, and an omission of this British exception; or where it stipulates not only a neutral right generally to a free trade with belligerent nations, but particularly a right to trade freely to and between the ports of such nations. These stipulations, by the force of the terms, necessarily comprehend the coasting and colonial trades, as well as other branches of commerce.
It would be a waste of time to bestow it on the treaties of a remote period, partaking too little of the civilization and spirit of more modern times, to edify them by its examples. It will be sufficient to commence this review with the treaty of Westphalia in 1648, which forms an important epoch in the commercial and political history of Europe, and to remark as the result of some enquiry into antecedent treaties, that they contain nothing which can give the least countenance to the principle under examination.
It will be sufficient also to limit the review of treaties, where Great Britain was not a party, to those of most importance, either for the tenor of the stipulations, or for the particular parties to them, with marginal references to others of analogous import; remarking again generally, that these others are all, either negatively or positively, authorities against Great Britain.
As a more convenient distribution also, the first review will stop with the epoch of the armed neutrality. The relation, which the treaties subsequent to that event have to the subject, will be noticed by itself.
Examples to which Great Britain is not a party.
By a treaty concerning navigation and commerce in 1650, preceded by a particular article on the same subject concluded in 1648, it is stipulated between the United Provinces and Spain, "that the subjects and inhabitants of the United Provinces (& those of Spain reciprocally) may sail and trade with all freedom and safety in all the kingdoms, states and countries which are or shall be in peace, amity, or neutrality with the state of the said United Provinces; and that they shall not be disquieted or molested in this liberty by the ships or subjects of the king of Spain, upon the account of hostilities which may exist, or may happen afterwards, between the said king of Spain and the aforesaid kingdoms, countries and states, or any of them that may be in amity or neutrality with the said lords the states as above."
This liberty, in relation to France, was to extend to all sorts of merchandise which might be carried thither before she was at war with Spain; even contraband of war , not proceeding from the states of Spain herself, and capable of being used against the Spanish dominions.
With respect to other countries at peace with the United Provinces, & at war with Spain, the enumerated articles of contraband were not to be carried to them by the United Provinces, but all articles not contraband were to be freely carried, with the exception only of cities and places invested or blockaded.
The Pyrenean treaty, between France and Spain in 1659, established so close a friendship between the two nations, that they were mutually restrained from giving either of them to those attacking the other, any assistance in men, money, or victuals, or with passage through their dominions. Yet it is stipulated in art. X—XVI, which are reciprocal, that the French shall have liberty to trade to all parts whatsoever , though they should be in a war with his Catholic Majesty, excepting Portugal, whilst it continued in the condition it then was in; all merchandise may be transported to other countries in war with Spain, as was allowed before the said war , excepting such as proceed from the Spanish dominions, and as may be serviceable against the Catholic King or his dominions, and contraband goods. By contraband goods are understood all sorts of arms and warlike stores; but corn and all manner of provision and goods, not being arms and warlike stores, are not reputed contraband, and they may be carried to places in war with Spain, excepting to Portugal and blockaded places. The French vessels, passing from the ports of Spain to any port in enmity with that crown, shall not be in any way retarded or molested, after producing their passes, specifying their lading.
It here appears, that the parties were at liberty, when neutral, to trade to all parts of a belligerent country, not blockaded, and in all merchandise not contraband.
The expression "as was allowed before the said war," in this and in the preceding examples, clearly fall within the observations made on the like expressions, used by the writers on the law of nations. They are merely a mode of describing the indefinite right to trade, as if no war had arisen, and consequently to enter into any new channels of trade which might be opened to them.
In a treaty in 1662, between France and the United Provinces, it is stipulated, art. XXVI—XXVII, &c. that the parties reciprocally are to trade and navigate with all freedom and safety to countries respectively at war with one and at peace with the other, without any exceptions made by the treaty, other than a trade in contraband, or to a place blockaded.
The treaty between France and the United Provinces, art. XXVII—XXIX, as incorporated with the treaty of Breda in 1667, between the latter power and England, declares that the subjects of either party may sail and traffic in all countries at any time , in peace with one and at war with the other, and this transportation and traffic shall extend to all articles not contraband , and to all places not blockaded .
In a treaty in 1674, between France and Sweden, art. XXIII—XXIX, are of corresponding import.
A treaty in 1675, between Sweden and the United Provinces, contains like stipulations in the three first and following articles.
A declaration made in 1676, by Spain & the United Provinces, confirming the treaty of 1650, stipulates the right of either party to trade with the enemy of the other, as well directly as between enemy's ports, whether the ports belong to the same or different enemies, contraband goods and places blockaded being excepted.
In art. XIII, &c. of another treaty in 1678, between France and the United Provinces, the same points are again stipulated.
The XIII. art. of another treaty in 1679, between Sweden and the United Provinces, contains a like stipulation.
So again in the like stipulation is contained in Art. XIII. of another treaty in 1679, between France and the United Provinces.
In a treaty in 1701, between Denmark and the United Provinces, the stipulations import an uninterrupted commerce of the neutral with an enemy of the other party, with the usual exception of contraband.
The like stipulation is found in a treaty of 1716, Art. viii. between France and the Hanse towns.
A treaty, Art. vi. between the emperor Charles VI. and Philip V. of Spain, May 1, 1725, is of like import.
The same is the language of a treaty in 1752, between Naples and Holland.
A treaty, Art. xvi. in 1767, between France and Hamburg, and another between France and the duke of Mecklenburg in 1779, maintain the same doctrine.
To these authorities derived from the conventional law of Europe, against the British principle under investigation, might be added, if it were necessary, references to other treaties of the like tenor.
Treaties to which England first, and then Great Britain, was a party.
By a treaty with Sweden in 1654, and another in 1656, confirming and explaining the former, it is stipulated, Art. II—IV, that it shall be lawful for the subjects of either of the confederates to trade with the enemies of the other; and, without impediment, to carry to them, except to places blockaded or besieged, any goods whatso-
ever not contraband, of which a specification is inserted. Provision is also made for the efficacy of passports in certain cases, and against the abuse of them for covering enemies' property.
The weight of these examples is not diminished by the name of Cromwell, under whose authority the treaties were concluded in behalf of England. In foreign transactions, as well as at home, his character was distinguished by a vigor not likely to relinquish or impair rights, in which his country, as a warlike and maritime power, was interested.
On the other hand, it adds weight to the examples, that they are treaties of alliance , containing mutual engagements of friendship and assistance; and consequently, the less apt to indulge the parties in an intercourse with the enemies of each other, beyond the degree required by the law of nations. This observation is applicable to all the succeeding examples, where the treaties are of the same kind.
On the restoration of Charles II, a treaty of alliance was concluded with Sweden in 1661, the XI. art. of which, in pursuance of those above copied from treaties of 1654 and 1656, stipulates anew, that neither party shall be impeded in carrying to the enemies of the other, any merchandise whatever, with the exceptions only of articles of contraband, and of ports or places besieged.
In a treaty with Spain, May 13, 1667, the articles XXI—XXVI, import, that the subjects of each shall trade freely in all kingdoms, estates, and countries at war with the other, in all merchandise not contraband; with no other exception of places but those besieged or blockaded.
(To be continued.)
On the 17th of Jan. CALEB STRONG, Governor of Massachusetts, delivered a speech to the legislature, of which the following embraces the most important features.
But changes in the constitution of the government are more injurious than in the system of laws; even a small innovation may destroy its principles. The framers of the national constitution had before them, not only the forms which had been preferred by the several states, but those also which before that time had been devised in other ages and nations; and though the repeated experiments which have since taken place in Europe, may suggest matter for warning, they afford nothing for imitation. If notwithstanding, it is found by experience, that the constitution operates very unequally or the construction of any part is doubtful, amendments may be necessary to alter or explain it. But it is in vain to expect that all will be satisfied. Free governments admit of an endless variety of modifications, and the opinions entertained of their respective merits are equally various. When the constitution was established, perhaps no man that became subject to it, was perfectly pleased with every part. It was the result of mutual concession, and such indeed must always be the case, when a form of government is voluntarily accepted by a community.
Almost every nation, at some period of their existence, have enjoyed the privileges of a free state; but how few have preserved them!—they have been lost by the inconstancy of the citizens, or forfeited by their vices. In many republics, repeated variations in the modes of government have taken place, as different parties happened to predominate, until the people became weary of changes, and preferred the quiet of absolute power, to the tumults of perpetual revolution. In the minds of some men, there seems to be a restlessness, which renders them dissatisfied with any uniform course of things, and makes them eager in the pursuit of novelty; they abound in projects, and are ever meditating some fanciful change in the plan of government, which their imaginations represent as useful. But men of great ambition are still more dangerous; they commonly make the fairest pretences to principle, though they are actuated only by self-interest. If the constitution or laws of their country present obstacles to the accomplishment of their wishes, they employ every artifice to alter or abolish them; and if individuals oppose their attempts, they are equally artful and solicitous to destroy their influence, and render them odious to their fellow-citizens.
Few men, even in a prosperous community, are fully satisfied with their condition; a great part are easily induced to believe, that there is something wrong in the government or laws which may be rectified to their advantage; they therefore readily embrace any specious proposal to effect an alteration. The crafty and ambitious know how to avail themselves of this disposition to change, and encourage their followers to expect, that the amendments they propose will perfectly suit their case and produce the very blessings they wish; in this way, they not only effect their immediate object, but acquire an influence which enables them afterwards to accomplish the most destructive innovations. Such persons encourage hopes that can never be realised, and excite complaints which the most wise and benevolent administration is unable to remove.
Indeed, we are generally apt to ascribe too much to the efficacy of laws and government, as if they alone could secure the happiness of the people; but no laws will be sufficient to counteract the influence of manners which are corrupted by vice and voluptuousness; and it is beyond the power of any government, to render the circumstances of the citizens easy and prosperous, if they want the habits of industry and frugal-

Government is necessary to preserve the public peace, and protect the persons and property of individuals; but our social happiness must chiefly depend upon other causes; upon simplicity and purity of manners; upon the education that we give our children; upon a steady adherence to the customs and institutions of our ancestors; upon the general diffusion of knowledge; and the prevalence of piety and benevolent affections among the people.
Our forms of government are doubtless, like all other human institutions, imperfect; but they will insure the blessings of freedom to the citizens, and preserve their tranquility, as long as they are virtuous; and no constitution that has been, or can be formed, will secure those blessings to a depraved and vicious people.
The unanimity which appeared in both branches of the legislature, when a proposed amendment to the national constitution was disapproved by you at the last session, may seem to render these remarks superfluous; but as the constitution of this state does not require, that such amendments shall be laid before the executive, for approbation; and as other questions of this kind are likely to arise, I trust there is no impropriety in suggesting these reflections, or in adding my testimony in favor of the principles you adopted, in the instance to which I refer.
You, gentlemen, I presume, will do all in your power, to preserve and perpetuate the advantages enjoyed by our fellow-citizens; by supporting the good order of society, and increasing the influence of virtuous manners; and by cherishing schools and seminaries of learning, where our youth may be instructed in the rights and benefits of equal government, and strengthened in their abilities to assert and preserve them. As the university of Harvard college is placed by the constitution under the peculiar patronage of government; and as it is made the special duty of the legislatures and magistrates of the state, at all times to cherish it, you will in a particular manner be disposed to afford that institution such encouragement and support, as its circumstances may render necessary."
LAND FOR SALE.
DESIROUS of removing to Kentucky, the subscriber will sell his estate at the Falls of Rappahannock, on which he resides containing 500 acres—being within one mile of the two improving towns of Fredericksburg and Falmouth and several manufacturing mills, independent of which it is believed that few tracts of land in Virginia embrace within their boundaries as many real advantages.
FRANCIS HORTON, near Fredericksburg.
January 24—2w3w
DR. MAGRUDER,
HAS for sale, an extensive assortment of drugs and medicine, patent medicines, shop furniture, confectionary, perfumes, spices, die stuffs, oil, paints, wind-w glass, glaziers diamonds, books and stationery, paper hangings, &c.—among them are the best yellow and red bark, salt petre, Gambier salts, calomel, jalap, tartar emetic, magnesia, fago, tapioca, arrow root, pearl barley, aqua fortis, oil of vitriol, Hooper's, Anderson's, and Whitehead's essence of mustard, Lee's New London and Windham bilious pills, British oil, essence peppermint, Solomon's and antipruritics or balm of Gilead, Godfrey's cordial, Bateman's and Jequit's drops, Laffy's elixir, Ching's and Hamilton's worm destroying lozenges, essential salt of lemons, Mariani's oil, Church's cough drops, Turlington's balsam, quina essentia, folis or gold tincture, essence worm seed, Steer's opusculum, court plaster, tooth powder, and brushes, Naples and Windsor soap, pomatum, essence of bergamot, lemons and oranges, can de luce nutmegs, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, mace, white mustard seed, long pepper, surgeons pocket instruments, cupping and amputating instruments in cases, spring trusses, pearl ashes, logwood, fustic, red wood, madder, alum, copperas, Spanish indigo, powdered and fig blue; red and yellow arnatto, gold beater skins, best winter strained lamp oil, about six hundred gallons of linseed oil, which he will sell cheap by the cask; white lead, yellow ochre, Spanish brown, dry and ground in oil, red lead, venetian red, vermilion, Prussian blue, patent green and yellow, blue verditer yellow orpiment, drop lake, Dutch and rose pink, lamp and ivory black, rotten and fumice stone, black lead, red and white chalk, water colors in boxes, flake white, turpentine, japas, copal and spirit varnishes, camel's hair pencils, painters brushes, silver and gold leaf, Dutch metal, American and Russian glue, macebobo root, orange flower-water, tamarinds and every article of medicine and paint that is necessary to compose a complete assortment, which he is determined to sell at the most reduced prices, especially to those that deal largely—8 by 10, 10 by 12, 12 by 14, 15, 16 and 18, 18 by 18, 14 by 19, 15 by 20 and 17 by 22 window glass; the domestic encyclopaedia, Denon's travels in Egypt, Hume's history of England, Lorenzo de Medici, McMeikens church history, Miller's retrospect detailing the many improvements in science, arts and literature of the eighteenth century, Millot's general history, Pictorial's lives, Kotzebue's plays, Johnson's lives of the English poets, quarto bibles with elegant engravings, a variety of religious books and sermons; a complete assortment of English, Latin, Greek and French school books, almanacs, copy and cyphering books, copper-plate copies, playing cards, pocket books, timothy and red clover seed, rosin by the barrel, &c.
January 8—3t&w6t
NOTICE TO CREDITORS.
THE creditors of the late John Fowle are requested to attend at Rhode's hotel in the city of Washington, on the 4th Monday of January next, between the hours of 11 o'clock A. M. and 2 o'clock P. M. when a dividend of the assets in hand will be made, under the direction of the Orphan's court.
SARAH FOWLE, executrix. Washington city, Dec. 25—1w127/Jan
WASHINGTON CITY.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29.
WASHINGTON ACADEMY.
AT a meeting of the trustees of the Institution for the education of youth in the city of Washington, established under an act of the City Council, held in the beginning of August, THOMAS JEFFERSON, Esq. was unanimously chosen President of the board. The election having been made known to him by Mr. Robert Brent, Chairman of the board, by letter directed to him at Monticello, Mr. Jefferson made the following reply:
Monticello, August 14th, 1805.
SIR, A considerable journey southwardly from this has prevented my sooner acknowledging letters from yourself, from Mr. Gardiner and Mr. S. H. Smith, announcing that I had been elected by the city Council a trustee for the public schools to be established at Washington, and by the trustees to preside at their board. I receive with due sensibility these proofs of confidence from the city Council and the board of trustees, and ask the favor of you to tender them my just acknowledgements. Sincerely believing that knowledge promotes the happiness of man, I shall ever be disposed to contribute my endeavors towards its extension, and in the instance under consideration will willingly undertake the duties proposed to me, so far as others of paramount obligation will permit my attention to them.
I pray you to accept my friendly salutations and assurances of great respect and esteem.
TH: JEFFERSON.
Robert Brent, Esq.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman, dated Wythe, Virg. Dec. 27, 1805.
"I cannot omit amusing you, with some items of a late discovery in this county. About two miles east of Geo. Wampler's, an attempt was made, to sink a pit, to search for salt water. A few feet below the surface, have been found several bones of the mammouth of an unusually large size. One tooth is said to weigh 17lb. and proves it to be a creature that fed on herbage. With these bones are intermixed a number of that of an animal of the largest species of the carnivorous kind; also a number of bones of young or smaller mammouths; and one might conjecture from appearances, that these carcasses have not been more than one hundred years deposited in the earth. Entire pieces of reed, six inches long, and twigs of the pine tree, are found in a large bed of dung, supposed to have been in the intestines of the mammouth, when it was killed. Our acquaintance, the Rev. Mr. Sloniger, is busy in good weather, in having a full search made, for the whole skeleton, which if he succeeds, it probably will give further information concerning the nature and properties of a species of animals now extinct."
Extract of another letter from the same gentleman dated, Wythe, Jan. 4th, 1806.
SIR, I wrote you in haste about two weeks ago. This day I went to the spot where the Mammoth bones are found, and with my own eyes satisfied my own curiosity. The teeth, or rather the grinders are larger than those I have seen, that were found at Campbells Saline on Holstein, or even those at the Big-bone Lick in Kentucky; these grinders and the substances that appear to have been in the entrails, prove that this monster of the forest has been a creature that fed on herbage. But the singular appearance of this new Lick, and the variety of large bones already dug up, proves, that a part of them belonged to large animals of a carnivorous species. A large tusk or horn has been found, inserted in the head or rather upper jaw, about two feet long, and eight inches in circumference. There have been seven under-jaw bones already found of this latter animal, as Mr. Michal Kinear informs, on whose land this curious deposit is found; by the shape of the horn, and its place so near the nose, the smaller animal may have been a species of the Rhinoceros, one kind of which is said to be the Unicorn of the ancients. But how so many of them have been laid prostrate on the same spot with the Mammoth, and of those by the teeth found, there must have been several, makes the whole a matter of some admiration. Bishop Madison will be disappointed in getting an entire skeleton; the bones, at least several of them after having been exposed several days in the open air become very brittle, and the country people have carried off several; the teeth, particularly the grinders of the Mammoth, are in a good state of preservation, and may bear transportation any where.
On MONDAY the House of Representatives were principally engaged with the bill authorizing a detachment of one hundred thousand militia, and the bill repealing the existing provision, admitting evidences of the public debt to be received in payment for the public lands. The former bill, without any substantial variation from the original dr. R. was passed by a large majority; and the latter ordered to a third reading.
On Tuesday, the House went into committee of the whole—Mr. JOHN C. SMITH in the chair—on the report of a select committee, in favor of authorizing a bridge to be erected over the river Potomac at the city of Washington.
Mr. Ely spoke in favor of the report, and Messrs. Elliot, Findley and Nelson against it; when the committee rose, asked, and obtained leave to sit again.
Mr. Smith renewed his motion for discharging the committee of Ways & Means from the further consideration of that part of the message of the President that relates to the invasion of neutral rights.
Mr. Quincy and Mr. J. C. Smith opposed the motion, and Mr. Jackson enforced it.—The two first gentlemen having recommended a suspension of the motion until the Chairman of the committee of Ways and Means (Mr. J. Randolph) should be in his place, Mr. Jackson concluded his remarks by moving an adjournment, that the consideration of the motion might be the next day entered upon as unfinished business, and an opportunity be given by the delay to the Chairman of the committee to be in his place.
The motion for an adjournment prevailed; Ayes 69.
A Petersburg article, of Oct. 27, mentions, that thirty seven sail of transports which sailed from Russia with troops, had been wrecked on the coast of Courland, and that nearly 1200 troops had been lost; among whom were two Russian generals.
Alexandria, Jan. 27.
The United States brig Franklin, John Earl, esq. commander, will sail to day from this place for New Orleans. Captain Shaw of the navy, Keith Spence, esq. navy agent, several other officers, and a detachment of the marine corps, go passengers in the brig.
TO BE SOLD OR RENTED, A WHARF,
ON the Eastern Branch, with a two story brick warehouse and frame Countinghouse thereon, formerly occupied by R. & G. Barry as a lumber yard, an eligible situation for any person wishing to follow that business. Possession may be had on the first March next.
Also a new Three story brick Dwelling House in New Jersey Avenue, completely finished and in excellent repair. Possession may be had on the 1st May next. The terms will be made known and the premises shown to any person applying to the subscriber at the Twenty Buildings.
GARRET BARRY.
January 29—w1m
Twenty Dollars Reward.
WILL be given for apprehending and securing in jail a young Mulatto man named ANDREW. He was hired by me last year to Mr. Joseph Thomas who keeps the middle ferry to Alexandria; and absconded from that place about the latter of August last. He is about 23 years of age, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, lusty and well made, has short curly hair, and is frequently subject to have several large pimples on his face. He is reckoned to be a tenable fellow of an easy agreeable address for a man in his low sphere of life. As he has not been heard of by me since his employment, I suspect he has had the address to slip himself as a freeman on board some vessel either at Alexandria or Baltimore. Whoever takes him up and secures him in jail shall receive from me the above reward, as soon as due information thereof is given to me or to Dr. N. P. Causin at Port Tobacco.
G. B. CAUSIN.
Maryland Charles County, January 29—tf
Iron Works and Mills FOR SALE.
THE Subscribers will sell by private bargain those valuable iron works, mills and mill seats, situate at or near the mouth of Anti Batum creek in Washington county, Md. within less than half a mile of Potomac river, together with all the lands in Md. thereunto belonging, supposed to be between 7000 and 8000 acres, a sufficient quantity of which, for the use of the works, is rich grass land. Also, all the negroes, (several of whom are skillful forgesmen) flocks, and other property, personal or mixed, appertaining to the said estate. Also, all the property in Virginia belonging to the same, consisting of a small tract of land on the river nearly opposite to the iron works of Denton, accues, which is known to contain iron ore in abundance—a part of the Keep Tryde Ore bank lately recovered, which is distant from the furnace at the Anti Batum works about four miles. Several lots in Shepherd's town, improved and unimproved; with the rights of the company, (which though now only conditional will become complete) to the ferry across Potomac below Anti Batum, and the farm to which the same is annexed, containing between 150 and 200 acres of very good land—together with all rights and privileges to other ores, landing places, and conveniences held and claimed by the late firm of Richard Henderson, and Co. making in the whole one of the most valuable estates in America for carrying on iron works of every kind, and for the manufacturing of flour on an extensive scale by a mill, lately built and now in complete order for that purpose, from which the Potomac canals give water carriage to the towns below, the land carriage to George Town being not more than 60 miles, and for an advantageous sale of iron, the very populous country and towns near the works afford a ready market.
Possession may be had on the 1st of January next, or at any reasonable time thereafter. For further description of the property, and of quantity and quantity of lands with title papers, any person disposed to purchase is referred to Mr. John Ritchie at the works, and for terms of sale to James M. Lingan, near George Town and Mr. Stuart of the house of Stuart and Seal in that place.
Dumfries, Vir. 2d Nov. 1805. AL. X. BERDSON, } Executors J. M. LINGAN, } of Richard JOHN HENDERSON, } Henderson. WM. STUART.
Jan. 29—epiot
District of Columbia, county of Washington, ss.
ON the petition of Charles Comp, 2d vent. executor, confined in the prison of Washington county for debt, notice hereby given to the creditors of the said Charles Comp that on Monday the 3rd day of Feb. next at 9 o'clock A. M. at the capitol in the Court room, the each prescribed by the act of Congress, entitled, "An act for the relief of insolvent debtors within the district of Columbia," will be administered to the said Charles Comp and a trustee appointed until sufficient cause then and there shown to the contrary.
It is ordered that this notice be published in the National Intelligencer twice and in the Washington Federalist once before that day.
By order of the hon. Wm. Cranch, esq. assistant judge of the circuit court of the district of Columbia.
WM. BRENT, Ck.
January 27—2t
WASHINGTON ACADEMY.
ON MONDAY, the 20th inst. the Schools under the direction of Mr. WHITE, appointed a PRINCIPAL TEACHER, will be opened at the House, on the Pennsylvania Avenue, west of the President's House and near Major Swan's.
For the admission of Pay Pupils application is to be made to Mr. White; and for the admission of those, whose parents or guardians are unable to pay for them, and for whose education provision has been made by the Council, application is to be made to
SAMUEL H. SMITH, } Superintendent NICHOLAS KING, } THOMAS MONROE, } Committee.
Arrangements were made by the Trustees for opening the schools in the Eastern, on the same day with those in the Western section of the city; but owing to unexpected occurrences they are obliged to defer opening the former schools for a period, which it is hoped will not exceed a few days.
Washington, Jan. 17.
On the first day of April next, or (if not fair) on the next fair day at noon will be offered at
PUBLIC SALE
To the highest bidder, for ready money, that very desirable and well known estate formerly the property of James Wormeley, esq. Called THE ROCKS;
Situated upon the river Shenandoah, in the county of Jefferson, Virginia. It consists of 900 acres of Land (by estimation) more than one third in woods, and has upon it a variety of the most useful improvements with a large scope of river bottom and other distinguished natural advantages. The upland is remarkably adapted to the use of plaster & very productive. It will be sold either in one body, or in the convenient divisions of the farm—the mills—the distillery—and the Ferry with a fair tavern for the accommodation of travellers; to each of which a suitable quantity of Land will be attached, by a division to be made previous to the sale.
This farm of about 760 acres with plenty of wood and water, including 80 acres of the richest river bottom, and the rest of the arable Land of an excellent quality, with a large and commodious dwelling, the necessary out houses, two barns, &c. &c. may be had at a price which deserves the attention of any gentlemen who wishes a farm detached from any mill property, &c.
Also at the same time, on the same terms, a handsome little tract of 300 acres within two miles of the Rocks called
THE MEADOW FARM,
about 230 in wood, with fine meadow ground—arable Land, well adapted to the use of plaster, a good mill seat with a constant stream, constant springs of water, and comfortable farm houses.
Also, a little farm of only 115 acres 3 4ths still uncleared, adjacent to the Meadow Farm.
The object in this sale being to raise as much money as may be necessary to release the only incumbrance that exists on the above property; if the several purchasers produce the sum required, they will respectively be allowed a credit of part of the purchase money, as an inducement to them to buy as largely as they may wish to do; and no money will be required, but in exchange for a clear deed.
FERDINANDO FAIRFAX.
Charles Town, Dec. 23, 1805—3t—wtf N. B. The sale will take place at the Rocks; and should any of the above land be previously disposed of by private sale, notice will be published in due time.
Forty Dollars Reward.
RAN away from the Subscriber living three miles below Montgomery court house, Maryland, on Thursday the 26th of December last, a likely black fellow named BEN, about 38 years of age, straight and well made, 6 feet and upwards high, has a small scar in his forehead above the right eye, has remarkable long hair and in place, if not cut off, had on when he went away a black fur hat, a brown cloth coat, black cassimere jacket, with black buttons, white cloth overalls, lined with country crocus, white country yarn flockings, and a tolerable good pair of short boots, he is an artful fellow, and has several other suits of clothes, and I make no doubt he will change his clothing and name, and perhaps he may have got a pass. And on the same day ran away from George town, a likely negro woman named Letty, the property of Mrs. Charity Wilson, Montgomery county, about thirty years of age, 5 feet 6 or 7 inches high, straight and well made, has a scar above one of her elbows. She took with her a new blue cloth habit, tinged round the neck, skirts and sleeves with red flannel, with sundry other clothing unknown to me. She was brought up a house servant, and hired as a cook to Mr. John Cox of George town. Those negroes were seen together on the evening they made their escape and it is supposed that they have gone together. Whoever takes up and secures the said negroes in any jail, so that we get them again, shall receive the above reward, or twenty dollars for either, and all reasonable expenses paid if brought home.
THOMAS CLAGETT.
January 24—3tw
A BARGAIN.
THE subscriber offers for sale the farm now occupies, containing near 300 acres with or without the stock thereon.
It is distant from the city of Georgetown and Washington about five miles, and well known as a healthy situation. There is much fine timber, and it abounds with springs, affording as good water as in the United States, a considerable proportion of the land has been in clover, and from thirty to forty acres fit for the rearing of cattle. It is now in a very improving state, being altogether clear of brush, fence, and from 40 to 50 acres ploughed and prepared for a spring crop, and from 30 to 40 acres well sown with wheat and rye—some part of the land is calculated for tobacco; and plaster of paris answer well with it. The dwelling house and other improvements may with small repairs be reduced very comfortable. From its vicinity to two growing cities, many advantages result in supplying the markets. A purchaser may calculate on a good bargain, particularly if an early application be made. Some part of the purchase money will be required in cash or approved negotiable paper; the remainder rendered easy—or negroes received in payment. The subscriber or William early residing on the farm will show it when required, and the terms made known by application to Mr. John Thompson, George Town, or Dr. Wm. Thornton, Washington.
Isaac Pollock,
Fruit Hill,
Some lands calculated for the culture of cotton, Indian corn and small grain, situated on a navigable river in the healthiest part of the state of Georgia, will also be sold on reasonable terms or exchanged for negroes.
Jan 29—epit
NEW INVENTIONS.
JUST Published, and for sale by the Author, corner of Market and Ninth streets. Also by Jas. Cruikshank, John Conrad and Co. and P. Byrne, booksellers, Philadelphia, a new scientific work on the principle and power of steam, entitled,
The Abortion of the Young Steam Engineer's Guide; (Price, for the first year, neatly bound and lettered, One Dollar and a quarter In Boards One Dollar.)
CONTAINING,
An inventory of the various constructions and powers of different steam Engines. 1. A drawing and description of a steam engine on new principles; and of a new construction, already in useful operation. It is much more powerful, more simple, and less expensive, requiring much less fuel, than engines on the old construction; and is application to every purpose for which power may be wanted, from that of a man to one hundred horses.
II. Drawings and descriptions of four other patented inventions of useful machines, viz. 1. For breaking and grinding plaster and other hard substances. 2. For packing flour. 3. For cutting straw. 4. For removing earth to make turnpike roads, levelling land, &c.
III. A description of a machine and its principles, for cooling water and making ice, in large or small quantities, to supply cities or private families in hot climates.
BY OLIVER EVANS,
Of Philadelphia, author of the Millwright and Millers Guide.
The author conceives that he has laid down a new and true theory, and developed principles of nature that may lead to highly important discoveries and improvements; to the saving of many thousand dollars to those who use steam engines, to great improvements in distillation; to the navigation of the Mississippi, etc. against the current.
The author constructs steam engines, on his new principles, suitable for any purpose for which they may be wanted.
Dec 27.
20 DOLLARS REWARD.
RANAWAY from the subscriber, living in Frederick county, Virginia, near Front Royal, on the 24th inst. a likely mulatto man named BILL WOOD, about 30 years of age, and about 5 feet 6 or 8 inches. The boy was formerly the property of John T. Mason, esq. of George Town; had on when he went away a blue surcoat, a sailor jacket made of white plains, which he has since dyed black or purple, also a pair of mist kersey pantaloons a pair of white yarn home made flockings, a home made pair of shoes, a pair of spurs, and I think he has a red colored waistcoat, besides a great many other clothes which I cannot describe—I am informed he has stolen a bay horse or mare, which he was seen with at Rappahannock near Leesburg. It is highly probable that he is making towards Annapolis, where he has a mother living, he has also a father living by the name of John Wood.
Whoever will apprehend said fellow and secure him in any jail so that I get him again, shall receive the above reward.
GEORGE BAYLY.
January 3—w4t
Louisiana Territory, ss.
In the General Court, October 1805. Pierre Menard, versus } On Petition. J. B. L. Sarpy.
In the above cause it is ordered by the court that all persons interested in the above cause and in which the late firm of Tardiveau and company & others are also interested be and appear before our next general court to be held at St. Louis in the said territory, on the first Tuesday in May next, to show cause if any they have why an immediate and final settlement should not be had of the said respective claims, and also, why the money now in the hand of Pierre Antoine Laforgue, being the proceeds of the sales of the property of said Tardiveau and Co. and of Louis Vander Berden, deceased, should not be paid over to the said P. Menard.
WM. PRINCE, Ck. G. C.
January 2—UG2t

FOR SALE At the Office of the NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER AND AT RAPINE'S BOOK STORE. PRICE ONE DOLLAR. An Examination OF THE BRITISH DOCTRINE, WHICH SUBJECTS TO CAPTURES IN NEUTRAL TRADE, NOT GENUINE IN TIME OF PEACE. January 17.
DESERTED. FROM on board the United States Frigate United States, the following seamen, viz: ON the night of Tuesday the 14th instant, James Mihan, a man about 5 feet 7 and 1-2 inches high, fresh complexion, stout made, dark blue eyes and dark hair. On Monday the 20th inst. William Fols, a man about 5 feet 11 inches high, straight made, black eyes, black hair and thin visage. Whoever secures said deserters and delivers them to me at the Navy Yard, Washington, shall receive TEN DOLLARS reward for each, and reasonable charges paid by JOHN CASSIN, Washington Navy Yard, 7 Jan. 22d, 1806.
ELIAS B. CALDWELL, ATTORNEY AT LAW, HAS removed his Office to the house lately occupied by Mr. Law, on Capitol Hill. Washington, July 26—tf 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. Sept. 9—tf
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 607 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 Hanson at the Navy Yard, and Charles Wayman of George Town. The lots will be shown by Mr. Warden, living on the premises, near the Eastern Branch bridge. ANTHONY ADDISON, Barnaby, 12th June 1805—tf
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. Steele, 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
NOTICE is hereby given that the partnership of Joseph Cassin, & Co. will be dissolved on the 3d of February next by mutual consent. Those persons having claims against them are requested to bring forward their accounts for settlement, and those indebted will please make immediate payment to Joseph Cassin, who is authorised to settle the accounts of said firm. JOSEPH CASSIN, JOSEPH COSTIGAN. January 20—6t
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 he has taken the Stelle's Hotel lately erected by Mr. Carroll, near the Capitol. The hotel being above one hundred feet in front, and containing fifty rooms enables the subscriber to offer every accommodation to members of Congress and travellers which can be expected in a public house. PONTIUS D. STELLE. Washington City, March 25—tf P. D. S. will rent the house lately occupied by him on the adjoining square.
Twenty Dollars Reward. AARON, a mulatto man about 43 years old, left the city of Washington early in October, and was seen on the road leading from Alexandria to Leesburg in company with a black woman, who I am informed is the property of some person in the vicinity of this place. Aaron is about 5 feet 10 inches high, has a flat nose, very bald in one of his eyes, brown (I think it is the left) near his nose, there is an indented scar occasioned by a stroke he received, which fractured the bone in that place, and whenever he has it in his power ever falls to think of excess. It is probable that he has gone to J. Mason or Berkeley county in Virginia, where he formerly resided, and from thence will endeavor to go to Kentucky. The above reward will be paid to any person who will have him committed to jail, and give information thereof to the subscriber in George Town, district of Columbia. EDWARD GANTT. Nov. 19—tf
WANTED, A WOMAN that understands plain cooking and house work; likewise a GIRL of about 14 years of age to take care of children—none need apply but those who can bring unexceptionable recommendations. Enquire at the end house from the well end of the Six Buildings and at this office. Nov. 27—tf
CONFORMABLY to an order issued from the Hon. court of Calvert County at September term last, the subscribers will offer at Public Auction on Tuesday the 4th day of February next, if fair, if not the first fair day thereafter, at the late residence of Nathan Smith deceased, at the hour of 12 o'clock. A valuable Tract of Land containing Four Hundred and Fourteen acres, and Fourteen Porches.—This truly fertile spot may justly be ranked as first rate land, the soil being extremely rich, capable of producing wheat, hemp, flax, clover, timothy, Indian corn and fine tobacco; the greater part of this beautiful place lies extremely level, and we should do injustice to it, did we neglect to say that few places are equal and none can excel it; the improvements are convenient and in tolerable repair, and as it is presumed that those who are inclined to purchase will view the premises previous to the day of sale, it renders a full detail of the improvements unnecessary. This place lies within four miles of Nottingham, and about six from Egg Point, has a sufficiency of timber and wood to support it, a tolerable apple orchard, with other fruit trees. The terms of sale are, that bond and approved security will be required, on the day of sale, payable in two equal payments, the first in twelve, and the second in eighteen months, with yearly interest on the purchase money unpaid, the sale to be subject to the ratification and confirmation of the court, and upon the whole purchase money and interest being paid (and not before) the purchaser or purchasers will receive an indisputable title to the premises so bargained and sold. Possession will be given on the day of sale. This land will be sold altogether or in lots as may appear most conducive to the interest of the representatives. Joseph Blake, Charles Williamson, Richard Ireland, Jun. } Com'rs. Nov. 27—2m
CHARLES H. VARDEN, MERCHANT TAYLOR, NEW JERSEY AVENUE, NEAR THE CAPITOL. Respectfully informs the gentlemen of the District of Columbia that in addition to his former stock he has received by late arrivals at Philadelphia from London a choice assortment of superfine cloths, single and double milled cambrics, Bennetts patent cord, woolseventeen and washcoating, fancy and black silk molekins, all of superior quality and newest fashion, plain and stripe black velvets, constitution cord, loop eatings, plushing flannels, &c. &c. with a variety of other articles in his line, and he pledges himself, to those gentlemen who shall favor him with their orders, to compleat them in the newest style of fashion. N. B. Ladies habit, regimentals, navy uniforms, made in the most fashionable manner. Washington, Dec. 12—tf
Twenty Dollars Reward, WILL be given for apprehending negro FAME a very low and tolerable fully woman about 28 years of age, but from appearance older, very black and much marked with the small pox which occasioned a small defect in one of her eyes, has lost one of her foreteeth, she is very artful and cunning, having procured a free pass, and passes by the name of Clarify Shorter; she was formerly the property of John Chittens of this county, and was run away for near eight years, was apprehended and sold to me in 1803 and was hired by me to a certain Thomas King of Prince George's county, from whom she absconded in Oct. 1804 and has been lurking, I do suppose near where she was hired or gone to Calvert county where I have understood her husband has gone. The above reward will be given to any person who will lodge her in jail so that I get her again, or deliver her to Mr. Samuel Wyse the city of Washington or to the subscriber living in Charles county Maryland, near Port Tobacco. P. S. I forewarn any person from harboring or employing said woman, at their peril. MASON SIMMS. Nov. 27—tf
NOTICE. THE Commissioners appointed by virtue of a commission of Bankruptcy issued and awarded on the 10th April 1802 against Washington Town, will meet at the Unica Tavern on Saturday the 18th day of February next at 10 o'clock A.M. for the purpose of receiving proofs of such claims against the estate of the said Nowie as have not yet been exhibited and proven. They will then also declare a dividend of the effects in hand, from the benefit of which such creditors as shall not then have proved their claims will be excluded. The dividend will be paid on application to the subscriber. WALTER SMITH, surviving assignee of Washington Nowie. George Town, January 1—tf
Prince George County. Pursuant to a decree from the court of chancery, I shall offer for SALE, at PUBLIC AUCTION, in the town of Piscataway, on Monday, the 2d of February next, ALL the real estate, not heretofore sold, of Thomas Clagett, late of Prince George's county, deceased, to wit: That handsome well improved lot, in the town of Piscataway; 850 acres of rich fertile land part of several different tracts, commodiously adjoining each other, on Piscataway branch, near the tobacco warehouse, and on the navigation of Potomac river, well wooded, and a great proportion of rich meadow; it will be sold in one body, or in lots, as may best suit those who wish to purchase. The terms of sale are, that the purchaser or purchasers of the whole, or of any part, shall give bond, with approved security, to the trustee for the payment of the purchase money, with the interest thereon from the day of sale, in four equal annual installments. On the chancellor's ratifying the sale and on the payment of the purchase money and interest, and not before, a good deed to be given by the trustee to the purchaser or purchasers, and his, her or their heirs, for the land to him, her, or them sold, free, clear, and discharged from all claims of the heirs of the said Thomas Clagett. THOMAS DUCKETT, Trustee. Dec. 23—cp
FOR SALE. IN the county of Albemarle, Virginia, 972 acres of land lying on both sides of Hardaway river, generally adapted to small grain corn and tobacco with a great abundance of meadow land. About four hundred acres are cleared most of which are low grounds; and it is perhaps capable of the highest improvement of any land in this part of the world by having an inexhaustible source of rich mud or soil that has been accumulating for ages. The situation is fine, healthy, convenient to two tobacco warehouses, the court house and several merchant mills and in a very respectable neighborhood. Hardaway river is capable of being made navigable into James river from seven miles above this tract for which there is an act of assembly. There is on the land a large two story dwelling house, almost new and other convenient houses—at about half a mile from which, there is also an old dwelling house, kitchen and store house, that may be made with some repairs capable of accommodating a genteel family. There is also on the premises between 90 and 1000 brick well burns which will be disposed of on reasonable terms. The payments required will be one third cash and the remainder at two equal annual installments. Any person wishing to purchase or view the said land will apply to the subscriber living on the premises. CHAS. WINGFIELD. January 1—6t
LUMBER Wanted Immediately. PROPOSALS sealed up, post paid & addressed to Robert Underwood, of this city, will be received till the fourth Monday in the present month, fluting precisely the lowest terms on which the proposer is willing to contract for supplying the following described lumber, to be delivered at the Tiber creek in this city, and which is designed for improving the navigation of said creek, so as to admit vessels of One Hundred Tons and upwards to pass up at least 3000 feet from its junction with the Potomac, viz 4 or 500 Red Cedar or White Oak piles, from 15 to 18 feet long, capable of squaring 7 inches at the but end, and to delimit the price of each kind of timber. Four hundred White Oak Poles, 20 feet long, to square 3 or 4 inches at the top end. Thirty thousand feet of 2 inch pitch pine plank, from 10 to 12 feet long. Washington city, Dec. 16—tf
25 DOLLARS REWARD, Will be given for apprehending a negro man named LEN—he is 37 or 40 years of age, 5 feet 8 inches high or thereabout, and of a very dark complexion, with short wool and cross eyes; he is also pockmarked and flammers very much; he formerly belonged to major Chew, living at the head of Herring Bay, who disposed of him to Mr. Sam. Campbell near Fredericktown Maryland; Dr. Manuel Kent who lives at Lower Marlboro, purchased him of Mr. Campbell and sold him to the subscriber. LEN was seen, during the months of April and May last, near Lower Marlboro and it is presumed that he is now near one of the above mentioned places. I will give FIFTEEN DOLLARS on his being secured in jail and information given to me, so that I may get him immediately, or the above reward if he be delivered to me at the Navy Yard in the city of Washington. NICHOLAS VOSS. Nov. 22—2awtf
PROPOSALS. For carrying mails of the United State on the following post roads will be received at the General Post Office until the 8th day of February next, inclusive. 1st. From Washington city by Upper Marlboro and Queen Anne to Annapolis twice a week. Leave Washington every Wednesday and Saturday at 5 A. M. arrive at Upper Marlboro by 10 A. M. and at Annapolis same days by 6 P. M. Returning—Leave Annapolis every Monday and Thursday at 5 A. M. and arrive at Washington the same days by 6 P. M. 2nd. From Annapolis by Rock Hall to Chestertown once a week. Leave Annapolis every Wednesday at 6 A. M. and arrive at Chestertown by 6 P. M. Returning. Leave Chestertown every Tuesday at 6 A. M. and arrive at Annapolis by 6 P. M. 3rd. From Chestertown by Church Hill and Centerville to Reaton twice a week. Leave Chestertown every Monday and Saturday at 4 A. M. and arrive at Reaton by 6 P. M. Leave Reaton every Tuesday and Friday at 6 A. M. and arrive at Chestertown by 6 P. M. 4th. From Chestertown by Georgetown Road, Sassafras, Warwick, Middletown and Christiana to Wilmington twice a week. Leave Wilmington every Tuesday and Friday at 8 A. M. and arrive at Chestertown by 8 P. M. Leave Chestertown every Wednesday and Saturday at 5 A. M. and arrive at Wilmington by 8 P. M. 5th. From Camden by Stateburg, Jamesville, Nelsons ferry and Monks Corner to Charleston twice a week. Leave Camden every Thursday and Sunday at 4 A. M. and arrive at Charleston on Saturday and Tuesday by 10 A. M. Leave Charleston every Saturday and Tuesday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Camden on Monday and Thursday by 8 P. M. 6th. From Nashville T. by Franklin, Occoquan, Mt. Iniothes, Grindstone Ford, Port Gibson, Greenville, Huntly, Washington and Natchez to Fort Adams once a week. Leave Nashville every Friday at 4 A. M. arrive at Natchez on Sunday by 2 P. M. in 9 1-2 days, and at Fort Adams on Monday by 10 A. M. Returning. Leave Fort Adams every Tuesday at 2 P. M. and arrive at Nashville T. in 10 1-2 days, on Thursday by 9 P. M. The contracts for the first five routes are to be in operation on the 12 day of April next and to continue in force for one year and the contract for the route number 6 is to commence at the same time and to continue in force for six months until the 28th of September next. On the customary conditions and penalties for forfeitures and delays. GIBSON G. MOORE, Post master general. General Post Office, } Dec. 30 1805—tawtf
BOARDING & LODGING. THREE or FOUR gentlemen may be accommodated with Boarding and Lodging, on moderate terms, by applying at Mrs. Sweeney's in F Street nearly opposite the Office of Discount and Deposit. January 3—tawtf
Fresh Garden Seeds, &c. THEOPHILUS HOLT respectfully informs his friends and the public, that he has received from London per ship Mars to Baltimore, and for sale, a very extensive assortment of fresh Garden Seeds, garden tools, grass seeds, bird seed. Split peas and flour of mustard by the pound. He also has for sale a variety of bulbous flower roots, fruit trees, flowering shrubs, Lombardy poplars, &c. &c. The customary allowance made to Gardeners and those who purchase to sell again. Washington City, Dec. 13—2awtf P. S. An assortment of the garden seeds are for sale at Dr. Ott's George Town.
Thirty Dollars Reward, FOR apprehending and securing in jail negro J. COB who is a low well made fellow, about 25 years of age, complexion rather black, short deep, has a pleasant countenance, is stout made about the shoulders and breast with small legs, has a stoopage in his speech and cannot make a quick reply, when spoken to without flinching his eyes or being in motion, which is very observable, his clothing will be negro cotton jacket and overalls, osnaburg shirt, and wool hat, though they are subject to change, he was late the property of Richard E. Beall of Fauquier county, Virginia, and closed about the 6th of November last. The constables and others of their number in Washington, George Town, Alexandria, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Norfolk are requested to look out for the said run-away slave, as the above reward will be immediately paid them on the terms specified by JOHN LEDGER. City of Washington, Dec. 16—2awtf
PHILADELPHIA IRON FOUNDRY. THE subscriber has taken the Philadelphia Iron Foundry, situated in Southwark between Front and Second and Queen and Christian Streets, for the convenience of executing his own castings for his steam engines &c. But proposes to execute any orders that he may be favored with in that line; either for engines, mill-works, sugar-rollers, rolling stirring Mills Forge Work Cranks, Gudgeons, Cogwheels, Ketles, Pans, &c in short all casting of iron, either in sand or loam—He wishes to draw the attention of millers to their own interest, by adopting for all the running gears, of a mill, cast iron cogwheels, of spur and bevel gear, they will come cheaper in the first instance and last for ages. He means to have made by an experienced workman, a set of the most perfect moulds from which all the necessary movements for rolling, reeling, and the machinery for merchant sheet mills may be produced. He will undertake to assist in the arrangement of the suitable sizes of wheels to produce the proper motions, upon being informed of the number of revolutions per minute, and the number of cogs in the wheel, by which the machinery is to be put in motion. He makes Steam engines on his new and simple principles, for any purpose for which they may be wanted; their cost will be about half that of the old construction and consume less fuel. He keeps for sale as usual, Stone Coals, Fur Millstones, and bolting cloths of the best quality. Application to be made either at the Furnace or his Counting house, near the corner of Ninth and Market-streets. OLIVER EVANS. Jan. 1. sawsw
NOTICE. I forewarn all persons from taking a Note of Hand from me to Zachariah Fletcher of Prince Georges county for Forty Dollars payable on the 2d of January 1806, as the note was fraudulently obtained, as I am determined not to pay it unless compelled by law. BARTON CARICO. January 24—2t
D. PETER NOTIFIES to such gentlemen as have heretofore made consignments to Mr. William Murdoch, London, or may in future be disposed to do so, that he is duly subscribed to conduct his business at this place, and make such advances upon shipments as the prices in Europe will justify. George Town, Jan. 24—2t
This is to give Notice, THAT the subscriber of Calvert county hath obtained from the Orphan's court of said county in Maryland, Letters of administration on the personal estate of James Veens late of said county deceased—All persons having claims against the said deceased are hereby warned to exhibit the same, with the vouchers thereof to the subscriber at or before the 15th day of July next ensuing, they may otherwise by law be excluded from all benefit of said estate. Given under my hand this 13th day of January 1806. NATHANIEL T. WEBBS, Adm'r. Jan. 17—w3t
This is to give Notice, THAT the subscriber of Prince George's county in Maryland, hath obtained from the Orphan's court of Washington county, in the district of Columbia, Letters of administration on the personal estate of George Beall, late of Washington county, deceased—all persons having claims against the said deceased, are hereby warned to exhibit the same, with the vouchers thereof to the subscriber, at or before the 15th day of June 1806, they may otherwise by law be excluded from all benefit of the said estate. All persons indebted to the said estate are required to make immediate payment to T. H. GILLISS, Executor. Washington City, Dec. 11—w2m
Advertisement. THIS is to give notice that the subscriber hath obtained from the Orphan's court of Washington county in the district of Columbia, Letters of administration on the personal estate of Stanley Byss, late of Washington county aforesaid deceased; all persons having claims against the said deceased, are hereby warned to exhibit the same, with the vouchers thereof to the subscriber, at or before the 15th day of June 1806, they may otherwise by law be excluded from all benefit of the said estate. All persons indebted to the said estate are required to make immediate payment to T. H. GILLISS, Executor. Washington City, Dec. 11—w2m
ELISHA RIGGS, Has just received by the ship Birmi gh am from Liverpool, via Baltimore, and other late arrivals, an additional assortment of Seasonable Goods, among them are many Fancy articles, all of which will be sold very low, viz. Ladies Policos, fancy ribbons, lace sleeves, extra white kid gloves, rich cambric silk hosiery, Hawkshaw's banners, figured crapes, ostrich feathers, black laces shawls, and veils, white and colored cambric muslins, rich damask and green cloth, table cloths, London hatts. Also, A quantity of seine twine, saddlery, and hat-ters trimmings, and a few bales soft blankets. George Town, Jan 22 w4t
WASHINGTON CITY BOARDING HOUSE. Mrs. THOMPSON, Respectfully informs the Members of Congress and others, that having taken two of the Six Buildings, she is prepared for genteel accommodation of a number of Ladies and Gentlemen, as transient boarders or by the year. Those who honor her with their custom, will find an eligible spot, situated half way between the President's house and George Town; dry, healthy, and convenient to the Public Offices. She has apartments for servants, excellent stables and coach houses, and will spare no pains to give general satisfaction. November 25—
To be Sold, Or EXCHANGED for other property in the City, or its vicinity. TWO valuable and contiguous TRACTS of LAND in the state of Kentucky, the one containing 6880 acres, and the other 6252 acres, by late re-survey. They are under old and indisputable titles of more than twenty years, and situate in a populous county, adjoining flourishing settlements. All taxes thereon have been duly paid. Apply to the subscriber, JOHN BECKLEY. City of Washington } November 6—wtf }
The Washington Building Company having determined to suspend payment on their shares after FIFTY DOLLARS shall have been paid on each share. Resolved, By the Building Committee That one certificate be issued by the Secretary in favor of each share upon which there shall have been paid the full sum of fifty dollars, together with all stock, fees, and monthly payments accruing thereon, which certificate shall specify that all dues and demands on the said share have been paid. All persons concerned as aforesaid, are notified that unless they comply with the said payments on or before the first day of February 1806, they will at that time, forfeit their shares agreeable to the articles of the company. JOHN DOUGLAS, Chairman pro tem. Dec. 2—wtf
By order of the Orphan's Court of Prince George's county, will be sold at public sale, on Tuesday 11th of next month (at Mr. Elisha Jones's near Broad Creek) part of the personal property of Joseph Gill, deceased; consisting of one negro man, some valuable mules, cows and one horse. The above property will be sold on a credit of six months, with interest from the day of sale, the purchaser or purchasers giving bond with approved security—sale to commence at 12 o'clock, if fair, if not the next fair day. MARY GILL, Administratrix. January 15—3w
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. 12—wtf & ugst
NOTICE. WILL be exposed to public sale for ready cash, on the 29th inst. at P. D. Steele's hotel all the right, title, claim and interest of Ignatius Boone in & to a part of square No. 907 fronting about 60 feet on Seventh Street, with two Brick Houses and one frame house thereon, late the property of said Boone, taken by virtue of a writ of fieri facias issued from the circuit court of the district of Columbia, for the county of Washington at the suit of Thomas H. Hanson, Overton Carr and Aquila Johns for the use of Azariah Gatten & Nicholas L. Queen. The sale will commence precisely at 11 o'clock. DANIEL C. BRENT, Marshal. January 17—3t
BOLTING CLOTHS. RECEIVED a general assortment of warranted Bolting Cloths of Oliver Evans of Philadelphia and have constantly for sale at my store in Bridge Street, George Town Columbia. WM. MORGAN. 1st month 1, 1806—2aw5w
NOTICE. WILL be exposed to public sale for ready cash, on the 29th inst. at P. D. Steele's hotel all the right, title, claim and interest of Ignatius Boone in & to a part of square No. 907 fronting about 60 feet on Seventh Street, with two Brick Houses and one frame house thereon, late the property of said Boone, taken by virtue of a writ of fieri facias issued from the circuit court of the district of Columbia, for the county of Washington at the suit of Thomas H. Hanson, Overton Carr and Aquila Johns for the use of Azariah Gatten & Nicholas L. Queen. The sale will commence precisely at 11 o'clock. DANIEL C. BRENT, Marshal. January 17—3t