The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1805-01-30 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER, AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. V.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
NO. DCLXXIII.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30th, 1805.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
Congressional Register.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 9.
Debate on receding the District of Columbia.
[Continued]
Mr. GODDARD said he should not have risen on this occasion to discuss a subject already exhausted, but for the remarks of the gentleman from Virginia last up (Mr. Dawson.) If said Mr. G. I understand that gentleman right, he stated that two acts had been passed by Congress for the acquisition of this territory and the jurisdiction of Congress over it; the one in the year 1790, the other in 1801—That the first act, authorized the acceptance of a cession of a district of country, not exceeding ten miles square.—The second, passed in 1801, assumed the jurisdiction over this territory, and that we have nothing to do but repeal this last act, and the jurisdiction reverts back to the states of Virginia and Maryland, from which it was derived. If this position be well founded, I should agree with that gentleman in one part of his argument, viz. that we have a constitutional right to recede this territory, or in other words, repeal the act of 1801. But I think that position not well founded. In 1790, Congress passed an act authorizing the President to accept a cession of territory, to become the permanent seat of the government of the United States. The states of Virginia and Maryland made the cession accordingly. This done, the territory as well as the jurisdiction over it so far as they belonged to those states, was completely acquired, by the United States. The states of Virginia and Maryland parted with all their right, the moment they made the several cessions; the jurisdiction resided in the United States. Congress might not immediately begin the exercise of jurisdiction, but the right to do it was complete. By a recurrence to the act of 1790, I find a proviso annexed to the first section, in these words, "Provided nevertheless, that the operation of the laws of the state within such district, shall not be affected by such acceptance, until the time fixed for the removal of the government thereto, and until Congress shall otherwise by law provide." Congress, aware that it might not be convenient, immediately to organize a government for this district, made provision for the operation of the laws of Virginia and Maryland, until such organization should take place. It hence results, that as the laws of Virginia and Maryland, were in operation here, prior to the act of 1801, yet they were so under the sole authority of Congress; unless indeed, those states in the acts of cession, made a reservation of jurisdiction, until Congress should organize a government. Of this I am not certain; but if it be so, it makes no difference, because all the pretension on the part of these states, to exercise jurisdiction, ceased when the event happened, to which the reservation had reference; and until that time, its exercise was sanctioned by the act of 1790. No jurisdiction therefore was acquired by the act of 1801—that act organized a government, provided for the erection of courts, the appointment of public officers, &c. Suppose we should repeal that act, what would be the consequence? Would the jurisdiction be thereby restored to Virginia and Maryland? Not at all—Congress might the same day pass another act, organizing the government in the same, or in a different manner. The jurisdiction would still reside in the United States, and all the legislative power which could be in exercise here, must be exercised by Congress, until we pass an affirmative act, receding the jurisdiction to those states—and here permit me to enquire, whether this does not furnish an answer to all the arguments which have been drawn from the analogy between the power which is given by the 8th section of the first article of the constitution, authorizing Congress to exercise exclusive legislation over this territory, and the clauses in the same section, giving to Congress other powers? And whether the true difference does not consist in this, that in all the other cases we may pass laws, and repeal them at pleasure and the power will continue the same; in this case we are called upon to do more than
repeal a law—Doing that would not effect the object.
By other clauses in the same section of the first act of the constitution, power is given to Congress to establish a uniform system of naturalization—uniform laws on the subject of Bankruptcies—establish Post offices, and Post roads, &c. Gentlemen say, and very correctly, that in these cases Congress may, or may not, exercise the powers given by the constitution—May pass laws this Congress, and repeal them the next.—This is doubtless true. And if by repealing the act of 1801, a re-cession would take place, and a future Congress could enact another law, the argument would hold. But we must pass a law ceding the jurisdiction. This once done, Congress can never resume it, or again exercise the power given by the constitution, to legislate exclusively for this district, while it remains the seat of the government of the United States.—Do we not therefore, instead of repealing a law, in effect repeal one of the provisions of the constitution, and render it a dead letter?—Can we fairly get along in any other manner, than by considering the acquisition of this territory, and the jurisdiction over it as one thing, and the constant exercise of legislative powers here as another? As it respects the first, may we not consider the constitution as functus officio ? As having produced the effect which was intended? As it respects the last, we may repeal all the laws in operation here for the government of the territory, and still the right to govern, may belong to Congress. And can we part with this right?
I am sensible however, that difficulties attend this construction of the constitution.—I say construction, because I believe it cannot safely be affirmed, that there are any plain, positive words which decide the question in debate.—We must resort to construction, to ascertain the meaning of language. One objection to this construction, as forcible perhaps as any which has been urged, arises from the succeeding clauses of the same paragraph of the same section.—"And to exercise like authority over all places purchased by the consent of the legislature of the state, in which the same shall be, for the erection of Forts, Magazines, Dock-Yards, and other needful buildings." Whatever may be our authority here, it is the same with respect to places purchased for Forts, arsenals, &c.—It will doubtless be found to be very inconvenient in practice, to adopt such a construction of the constitution as would compel Congress to exercise for ever this exclusive legislation for ever over those places.—Forts may be erected this year, upon our frontiers. Hereafter, when the country becomes settled, those places are no longer frontiers, and forts are no longer necessary. Exclusive legislation ought no longer to be exercised there, by Congress. I can answer this objection only by resorting to known rules of construction, one of which is, that regard is always to be had to the subject matter, about which the instrument is conversant.—Give it such a construction, as that the object intended to be effected, shall rather prevail than be destroyed.
In the one case, the object unquestionably was to obtain a permanent seat of government for the United States.—In the other a temporary place for the exercise of military power, so long as the condition of the country about it, rendered it necessary. The United States must always have a place for "the seat of the government," somewhere.—Forts may not always be necessary, any where .
The argument of a gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Clarke,) I cannot think is so conclusive as that gentleman seems to consider it.—According to his argument, we are to find positive authority for parting with the jurisdiction of this territory, in the words of the constitution, which have been so often read, "Congress shall have power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever." He lays that the act which we shall pass to recede, is a legislative act, and we, in possession of all legislative power here, in all cases, have a right to exercise it in this, as well as any other case.—The power then, which must be a subsisting one, to govern this territory exclusively, contains in it, a power to deprive ourselves, and every future Congress, of the right of governing it at all, or of exercising any legislation here! But I am ready to admit that the question, whether we may constitutionally recede this territory, is a doubtful one, about which gentlemen may very well differ. But not perceiving the necessity or expediency of doing it, in that strong light in which it presents itself to some gentlemen, and entertaining doubts, about the
constitutional right to do so, I shall vote against it. Before I sit down, I cannot but notice one remark, which fell from the mover of this resolution, Mr. Stanford.—In representing the degraded situation of the people of this territory, he told us that they were wholly destitute of rights, and even the privilege of petitioning Congress, was matter of courtesy, not of right. Will that gentleman read the constitution of the United States, and make this declaration in this place? Among the amendments which have been adopted to that instrument, the first article is in these words. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof, or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances."—All which are or can be made for the government of this territory must be made by Congress. And we can no more pass an act, to operate here, which is repugnant to the principles and provisions of the constitution, than we can, to operate in any other part of the union. I cannot therefore but express my surprise, at the declaration made by the gentleman from North Carolina, as well as others of a similar import.—Gentlemen claim the exercise of power here, which is not only dangerous, but expressly denied us by the constitution which we are bound to support.
Mr. RHEA (of Ten.) Having attended with pleasure to the discussion of the question now under consideration, I had designed as on every question heretofore, to also on this, to have given a silent vote but I have felt myself constrained to state the reasons which govern this vote.
As this discussion may lead me to examine certain principles, I will take this opportunity to express my veneration for the superior wisdom which dictated them.
At the time the constitution of the United States became obligatory on the particular states, they were bounded by ascertainable limits; the sovereignty, jurisdiction and right of each particular state, within its territorial limits, were secured, and the rights, privileges, immunities and franchises of the citizens were safe under the respective state constitutions.
The constitution of Virginia, after stating a relinquishment of claim to the territories contained within the charters erecting Pennsylvania, Maryland, North Carolina and South Carolina, proceeds to declare that, "the western and Northern limits of Virginia shall in all other respects stand as fixed by the charter of King James the first, in the year one thousand six hundred and nine; and by the public treaty of peace between the courts of Britain and France, in the year 1763; and as by act of this legislature one or more governments be established westward of the Alleghany mountains."
The words used in this clause of the constitution of Virginia are, "shall stand as fixed," to evince that the limits of that state were unalterable, except as in the same clause is provided.
The constitution of Virginia, also declares expressly that "the right of suffrage shall remain as exercised at present;" the word "shall" is here again used, to evince that the right of suffrage was secured to every citizen, as an unalienable right, a right which, by the force of the terms, could not be surrendered.
The third article of the declaration of rights and constitution of the state of Maryland declares that "the inhabitants of Maryland are entitled to all property derived to them from or under the charter granted by his majesty Charles first, to Cecilius Calbert, baron of Baltimore." And the fifth article secures the right of suffrage to the citizens.
It would appear by these express unqualified declarations in the constitutions of the states of Virginia and Maryland, that the territorial limits of those states were made fixed and unalterable, except as to the making one or more governments westward of the Alleghany mountains, provided for in that of Virginia; and it doth not appear, that any power is delegated in either of the same constitutions, to alter or change the territorial limits of either state (excepting that, by the constitution of Virginia, one or more governments might be established westward of the Alleghany mountains,) or to cede any part of the territory of either to any other power. There doth not appear in either of the same constitutions, any expression of the public will, delegating power to cede away any of the citizens of either
state, or by a cession to place them in a condition deprived of the rights of suffrage.
But it may be objected that the cessions of territory and citizen inhabitants which are stated to be made, were made after the ceding states had adopted the constitution of the United States, and that constitution being the supreme law of the land, any thing in the constitution of any state to the contrary notwithstanding—therefore the clauses and articles in the constitutions of the states of Virginia and Maryland, before alluded to, so far as they would have reference to a portion of territory and citizen inhabitants to be ceded, were made null and void.
It is acknowledged that this objection may appear to have some claim to examination, but if examined, it will appear to have no force.
It will be observed that there is no clause, section, or article in the constitution of the United States imperiously commanding any particular state in this union to cede territory to the United States, for any purpose. An imperious command to cede territory could not be made. The second article of the confederation and perpetual union of the United States declares, that "each state retains its sovereignty, freedom and independence, and every power, jurisdiction and right, which is not by this confederation expressly delegated to the United States, in Congress assembled."
This article operates as a guarantee, by the United States to every particular state; and the second clause of the third section of the fourth article of the constitution of the United States declares, that "nothing in this constitution shall be so construed, as to prejudice any claims of the United States, or of any particular state." Hence it may be inferred, that this objection is without force.
This objection will appear more untenable by an examination of the seventeenth clause of the eighth section of the first article of the constitution—(the clause on which the claim "to exercise exclusive jurisdiction, in all cases whatsoever, over" the district of Columbia, is bottomed) the words used in this clause are not imperious, they do not command any particular state or states to cede territory to the United States, neither do they impose an imperious necessity to accept such cession from any particular state.
This clause indirectly presents a proposition to the particular states—the words used are "over such district (not exceeding ten miles square) as may by cession of particular states, and the acceptance of Congress become the seat of the government of the United States;" by this mode of expression it is evident, that it was understood, that every particular state had the right, under its own particular constitution, to reject this proposition.
Hence it may be concluded, that the articles and clauses in the constitutions of the states of Virginia and Maryland, before alluded to, are not impaired by the constitution of the United States.
In the fourth section of the fourth article of the constitution, it is expressly declared, that "the United States shall guarantee to every state in this union a republican form of government." This is a strong expression—when it is recollected by whom it is made, it will appear stronger. It is the voice of the sovereign people of this union—before whose presence—at whose command, every fabric that they have not ordained to be erected must fall and moulder into ruin.
The words of the constitution are "WE," emphatically. "WE the people of the United States shall guarantee to every state in this union a republican form of government." No book of political institute, antient or modern, can produce an expression of the public will equal to this.
By the word "state," in this section is not intended or signified mere soil or territory, nor by it is intended and signified a citizen people inhabiting a territory bounded by limits ascertainable in their constitution—To these citizen people comprising every state in this union, we the people of the United States have guaranteed a republican form of government.
At the time the constitution of the United States became the supreme law of the land, the people inhabiting what is now the district of Columbia are presumed to have been some of them citizens of the state of Virginia, the residu citizens of the state of Maryland, therefore, were respectively component parts of those states, and were embraced by this emphatical word "WE," which
stands first in the preamble of the constitution. They, therefore, being component parts of the states of Virginia and Maryland, guaranteed to all the people composing every state in this union a republican form of government. And all the people composing every state in this union guarantee a republican form of government to them. This guarantee was and is mutual and reciprocal. No citizen was excepted or excluded, and it cannot be made to appear that any citizen is or can be excepted or excluded, from the operation of this principle declared in this fourth section of the fourth article of our constitution.
This principle is capable of further illustration evincing its power in aid of the state constitutions.
The citizens composing every state in this union, who have made and ordained a constitution, have by that constitution mutually guaranteed to each other a republican form of government. At this point, the constitution of the United States, and the constitution of each particular state meet and combine to protect every citizen of every state in this union in the possession and exercise of his liberties, privileges and franchises under a republican form of government.
If, then, these things be so, no good reason can be urged, why any section of citizens shall be retained and confined under the dominion of a principle hostile to the grand principles which form the basis of the American republic.
As hath been already observed, there doth not appear to have been any imperious necessity compelling any particular state to cede territory, and the citizen inhabitants. There doth not appear to have been any imperious necessity compelling the acceptance of any such cession; but it is understood that the states of Virginia & Maryland have made cessions of territory composing the district of Columbia, and the citizen inhabitants thereof to the United States and they have been accepted, and by that acceptance many thousands of citizens have been deprived of rights and privileges, the possession and exercise of which, under a republican form of government, were solemnly guaranteed to them.
If there hath been a splendid departure from principle to obtain an object not yet known, more than is the benefit from the cession refusing to the United States, to any particular state, or to any citizen in this union: it may be most advisable, to return and to remove any impediment that may prevent the free operation of a republican form of government.
With this view of the subject I shall vote in favor of the resolutions, impressed with an assured, solemn belief that it is my duty so to do.
What remains is to offer my grateful acknowledgments for the attention with which I have been honored.
Mr. LEWIS—Mr. Chairman—Hitherto I having been silent upon the question under consideration, have been too much indisposed to do justice either to myself or to the importance of the subject. After the very lengthy and able investigation of the resolutions upon your table, it is with great unwillingness that I intrude upon the committee at this late hour, when their patience must be exhausted, and when it is not probable that much new light can be thrown upon the subject; but upon a question so very interesting, and in its consequences so important, I am desirous of assigning some of the reasons which have determined me to give to these resolutions my decided negative. I am opposed to the resolutions for a retrocession of the district of Columbia, or any part of it, for two reasons; first, because in my opinion, Congress do not possess the constitutional power to pass them; and, secondly, because (even admitting they possessed the power) it would be inexpedient. I consider that if the retrocession should take place, that a removal of the seat of government would certainly follow, and the fundamental principles of the government would be shook to the centre, such a measure I will never consent to sanction, and while I have the honor of a seat in this House, my voice shall be raised against it. I will never vote for a measure that shall in the most distant manner have a tendency to impair the principles upon which this district is established. Before Congress can retrocede the district or any part thereof, not only the states of Virginia and Maryland, but the people of the district must give their consent. The latter certainly had a right to the benefits of the constitution, and cannot be transferred without their consent to any state whatever. But the gentleman from Georgia, (Mr. Early) has said that the people of the district of Columbia had not been con-

United when they were ceded to Congress, and that therefore their consent was not necessary on the occasion. Is this correct? No. It is not a fact that they had no voice in the cession. They were represented in the convention, which ratified it, and they were represented in the state legislature, who gave their assent to the cession. Their assent was necessary, it was obtained. The territory was ceded for those purposes expressed in the constitution and for those purposes only did the people consent to relinquish their sovereign rights. What were those purposes? that the ceded territory should be the permanent seat of the government of the United States, and that Congress should exercise exclusive legislation over it; these were express terms upon which the cession was made and accepted by Congress, and it is now as said that we can transfer or barter away these people like cattle? No, sir, they still have rights which they cannot be deprived of, without a shameful violation of justice and public faith. Have these resolutions been introduced? Has the state of Virginia or the state of Maryland expressed a desire that a retrocession should take place? I believe not—have the people of the district who are to be affected by it, petitioned in its favor? No, but the reverse is the fact—resolutions have been received from the town and county of Alexandria, denying the right of Congress to transfer them without their consent, petitions have been received from George Town and the City of Washington against it, and not one person in the district has come forward and complained of not being referred to his "long lost liberty." And I would ask whether the wishes of the people ought not to be regarded? and whether Congress will retrocede them in defiance of their will? I trust not. If Congress possess the power to transfer them to the state of Virginia and Maryland, they can transfer them to any other state in the union, or (as the gentleman from Maryland Mr. Dennis,) has said to the emperor of Hayti—I trust that no gentleman of the committee would be willing to do the latter, but gentlemen have said that the people of the district were troublesome to Congress—I never expected it, to have heard such a declaration upon this floor. The people have a right by the constitution to petition for a redress of their grievances, and Congress are bound to listen to them, for, although deprived of an immediate representative, yet they are still the people of the United States, & as such are entitled to all the privileges of the constitution, except that of being represented. If because the people are troublesome we are to transfer the district; the same reason might be assigned in favor of ceding any state to a foreign power—but why let me ask, sir, do not gentlemen propose a retrocession of Louisiana? surely that province has been more troublesome than the district of Columbia, and the prospect is, that it will be, twenty times more so.—But it is urged as an argument in favor of the retrocession, that the district is small—and are we Mr. Chairman arrived at that period when justice shall be measured, and limited by miles and bounds? If this be the case, then the little state of Delaware will, when compared with the state of Virginia, only be entitled to a proportion of justice as one is to twenty two. This I hope is not the case yet. The expense of legislating for the district has also been urged,—but in my opinion, it is neither troublesome or expensive. If Congress have devoted some time to the affairs of the district, it must be recollected that they have devoted more to a number of individual cases; will gentlemen look at the case of Amy Darden's Horse, about which, more time has been lost, than about all the business of the district—I lament that the claim of this poor woman, (which I have always considered just,) should still be a subject of legislation and remain unpaid, but it has never been contended that the expense of legislating should prevent persons from having justice; gentlemen have deplored the degraded situation of the people of this district—I acknowledge it, they are in a degraded situation, but because Congress exercised exclusive legislation over them, but because they contended for the right to transfer them without their consent, like so many cattle,—(or slaves and non-entities as they have been termed by gentlemen.)—But how will the people in the county of Alexandria be restored to their "long lost liberty," by a retrocession to Virginia? do not gentlemen know that in Virginia none but freeholders have the privilege of voting, and but a small proportion of the people would be restored to that inestimable right, and would be precisely in the situation in which they are at present, in that respect. After the able arguments which have been adduced against the resolutions,—I will not detain the committee with any further observations, but will content myself with giving to them my decided negative, and hope a majority of the committee will not be found to lend an a measure fraught with such pernicious consequences. (To be continued.)
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. MONDAY, January 28. Mr. Brown presented a petition from a number of the inhabitants of Northampton & Berks counties, praying the establishment of a post road from Bethlehem to Berwick. Referred to the Committee on post-offices and post-roads. Mr. Nelson presented a petition from James R. Wilson, an old revolutionary soldier of the 4th Regiment of Artillery, attached to the Maryland line, praying for relief in consequence of his inability from wounds received in the service to provide for himself and family. Referred to the Committee of Claims. Mr. Holland moved for the appointment of a committee to report on the disposition of certain lots of ground in the city of Washington which had been given by the former proprietors for public walks and gardens, in such a manner as to answer the purposes of their original appropriation. Referred to a Committee of five. Mr. Findley presented a petition from the Presbyterian Congregation at George Town, praying for a charter of incorporation. Referred to a committee of five. Mr. Smilie presented a petition from a number of the inhabitants of the state of Ohio, praying to be indulged with a longer time to make payment for the lands purchased of the United States. Referred to the committee appointed on the subject of the disposal of the public lands north west of the Ohio. Mr. J. Clay presented a bill from the committee on that part of the President's message relating to our intercourse with the Indian tribes, which being twice read, was referred to a committee of the whole for Wednesday next. A message was received from the President of the United States informing that he had approved and signed the act making an appropriation for the support of the navy for the year 1805, also, the bill appropriating 130,000 dollars for completing the south wing of the Capitol and other purposes. A message from the Senate by Mr. Otis their secretary, informing that they had passed the bill for the relief of J. Steele. The House, on motion of Mr. John Randolph, ballotted for a manager instead of Mr. R. Nelson excused; on counting the ballots, amounting in the whole to 95, Mr. Clarke had 52 votes, and was declared duly elected. Mr. J. Clay moved that a committee be appointed to enquire whether any, and if any what alterations were necessary in the act to prescribe the mode of taking evidence in case of contested elections of members of the House of Representatives of the United States, and to compel the attendance of witnesses, and that the committee have leave to report by bill or otherwise. Mr. G. Griswold presented a petition from Abraham Wiblebar of Warren, an old revolutionary soldier, praying relief. Referred to the committee of claims. Mr. Claiborne called for the order of the day, on the bill for the extinguishment of debts due by the United States. On the question to take up the same, only 17 members rose; it was of course lost. Mr. Dana called for the order of the day on the Yazoo claims. Mr. J. Randolph called for the order of the day on the report of the committee on the Louisiana business. On Mr. Dana's call, a motion was made to postpone the same till Thursday next; that motion failed, the division being 51 in the affirmative, and 55 in the negative. It was moved to postpone it until tomorrow; this motion was carried, 65 members voting for it. The House then agreed to Mr. J. Randolph's motion to go into committee of the whole on the Louisiana memorial. The following resolution, which concludes the report of the select committee, was agreed to without a division. Resolved, That provision ought to be made, by law, for extending to the inhabitants of Louisiana the right of self government. The committee rose, and the House immediately concurred without a division in their report, and instructed the same committee that brought in the report to bring in the necessary bills. Dr. Eustis presented a petition from a number of the inhabitants of Charles town, near Boston, praying to be established as a port of entry. Referred to the committee of commerce and manufactures. Mr. Crowninshield reported from the committee of Commerce and Manufactures, against the petition from Plymouth, in North Carolina, praying to be established as a port of entry. The report was referred to the committee of the whole, for Wednesday. The House went into a committee of the whole, on the motion of Mr. Root, on the bill to discharge John York from his imprisonment. Mr. TENNY, in the Chair. After some time spent in considering the same, the committee rose and reported the bill; which being agreed to by the House, it was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading to-morrow.
Mr. J. Clay moved that a committee be appointed to enquire into the expediency of providing by law for the more effectual prevention of fraud and forgery on the bank of the U. States. The motion was carried, and referred to a committee of three. The House went into a committee of the whole on Dr. Eustis's motion for fitting up and preparing one of the Navy Yards on the margin of the ocean for the reception and repair of our vessels of war on their return to the U. States. Mr. VARNUM in the chair. A lengthy discussion took place on this motion, and several attempts were made to alter it; all which having failed, the committee agreed to the original resolution and reported it to the House. The vote was 53 in its favor, and 51 against it. Mr. Claiborne called for the Yeas and Nays on taking the question upon the same in the House. But while the members were rising in support of Mr. C's call, a motion was made and carried to adjourn. TUESDAY, JANUARY 29. The motion of Dr. Eustis for preparing and fitting upon one of the Navy Yards on the margin of the ocean for the reception and repair of the vessels of war now on cruise or foreign station, being the unfinished business of yesterday was taken up. Mr. Nicholson moved to refer it to a select committee. On the question, there were 47 ayes, and 62 noes, so it was lost. Dr. Eustis moved to postpone the consideration of the same till Saturday next. Agreed to. Mr. Nicholson called for the order of the day on the bill making provision for the preservation of peace in the ports and harbors of the United States and in the waters under their jurisdiction. Mr. Elliot called up the report of the committee of claims on the Yazoo lands in the Mississippi territory. The question was taken on the first order mentioned and lost, being 53 for it and 55 against it. Mr. Thomas reported from the committee for the purpose a bill to authorize Joshua Sands and others to erect a bridge across the marsh and Woollebaugh in Navy Yard on Long Island, which was read twice, and referred to a committee of the whole for tomorrow. Mr. Elliot renewed his call for the order of the day, which was agreed to, accordingly the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, on the Yazoo claims. Gen. VARNUM, in the Chair. After a short discussion, the committee rose and reported the resolution in favor of admitting the claim by way of compromise. The vote was 61 in the affirmative, and 50 against it. The House took the report of the committee of the whole into consideration—and Mr. Clark proposed to amend the resolution by adding a proviso. That no part of the five millions of acres reserved to compensate certain claims, should be applied to the benefit of the claimants under the act passed or pretended to be passed by the legislature of Georgia in the year 1795. On this question Mr. J. Randolph called the yeas & nays, in which he was supported by the constitutional number. Mr. J. Randolph went into an argument showing the impropriety of the measure; and the sitting terminated some time after the usual hour by an adjournment.
The Major-Generals of several divisions of the militia have informed me, that in the late reviews it appeared, that the several Brigades, had improved in all the essential points which constitute a well regulated militia; that their arms and equipments were in better order than at any former period, and that with few exceptions they had good cloth uniforms; this latter circumstance being voluntary, and not required by law, is peculiarly meritorious. There can be no necessity gentlemen, of recommending to you the advancement of the various interests of the Commonwealth, your time will be devoted to this object, in attending to the requests of individuals and removing any just grounds of complaint; in affording suitable encouragement to every species of useful industry; and in supplying, as far as you are able, whatever is deficient in our present system of legislation. While you thus consider yourselves as deputed to watch over the public interest. While you support the just claims of our fellow citizens and gratify their reasonable expectations, you will merit, and probably retain their respect. But in whatever manner your services shall be estimated by others, you will have the satisfaction which arises from the consciousness of doing good. We have associated with our fellow citizens to preserve our rights, by preserving Republican governments; in doing this, we are all equally and deeply interested. When the constitution of the United States was first proposed, many good men doubted of the fitness or sufficiency of its provisions. But such important benefits have resulted from it, and such confusion and discord would follow from a separation of the States, that probably few or none of the people are desirous of that event. The Constitution of this state unites us still more closely for our common safety and happiness. It is founded on the basis of equal liberty, and its value does not appear to be lessened in the estimation of the people, by the experience of more than twenty years; our country flourishes in peace and wealth, and we may be thought, from these favourable circumstances to be out of the reach of danger. But when we see other republics disgracefully renouncing the fruit of their sufferings and exploits, & tamely submitting to the controul of Masters; we ought at least to reflect on the causes of their fall, and consider of the means by which we may be guarded against a like degradation. It will, I think, be agreed that knowledge and virtue in the body of the people, are essential to the support of a free government; without them we should readily submit to any artful usurper.—The first settlers of this state, aware of their importance, adopted every expedient in their power to promote them; and so long as we preserve unimpaired the institutions which have been transmitted to us by the wisdom of our ancestors, and retain their purity of manners and the lessons which they inculcated, we may hope to be exempted from the vicissitudes to which other nations have been exposed. Religious principles and institutions are necessary to all governments, and especially to Republics. The teachers of religion, of whatever denomination they are, by their moral instructions may have much influence in upholding the order of society and regulating the conduct of the people; their offices would therefore be of great importance, even if they had no higher objects in view.—But all nations have expressed a reverence for the Deity, and have united in the belief that some mode of worship is necessary to obtain his favour.—Within a few years, indeed, an experiment has been made by the people of France of renouncing religion, but we have not seen the tendency and termination of the system. To enumerate the institutions of our ancestors might be thought superfluous; many of them, and particularly those which related to education are still maintained, and we every day experience their beneficial effects. May their potency not only preserve their institutions, but practice their manners and virtues. It is often said, that most of the Republics which I have referred to, were conquered by their more powerful neighbors; and that our remote situation from Europe ensures the safety of our government. Perhaps these observations are not so correct as we are inclined to believe. Free states are in much greater danger from their own depravity than from external enemies. The vices, disorders and divisions in former republics, have in all cases occasioned their ruin. It will be difficult to find an instance where a free and civilized people have been conquered, who had not degenerated from that virtue by which their liberty was established. When they are surrounded by other nations, they consider them as watching to take advantage of their folly and weakness; this reflection operates as a constant check upon their disorderly passions. If an invasion is threatened, and any public spirit remains in the people, they lay aside private animosities and unite for their common defence. In
this manner, the apprehension of danger from abroad, has in numberless instances prevented contention at home. Our distance from Europe will be a fortunate circumstance if we can be at peace among ourselves; it lessens the probability of foreign invasion, though it may increase the danger from internal feuds. In the republics which I have just mentioned, the people had not sufficient virtue and public spirit to unite their efforts against the common enemy. Their numbers and wealth were as great, as when they resisted the most powerful princes; and if they had acted with unanimity and vigour, their defensive attitude might have saved them from an attack. But they were divided and weakened by factions; their false patriotism co-operated with their invaders; and their governments fell, not so much by the arms of a conqueror, as by the weight of their own vices. Such are the effects of violent disorders or intractable discord in all free states; they lead to anarchy and end in despotism. There may be much diversity in the process, but the result is nearly the same; the chief difference is, that small states generally call in a master from abroad, and great nations make a tyrant for themselves. When political disputes are conducted with moderation and candor, they are innocent and may be useful. But when parties become eager and vehement, when in the heat of contention they lose sight of the public interest, and endeavor to mislead the citizens by false representations, they corrupt the public morals and tend directly to licentiousness and confusion. In such cases there would be danger that the most unprincipled would be the most successful; they might resort to measures which their opponents might be unwilling to adopt; for honest men would disdain to deceive the people, and would never deviate from right conduct to promote any cause, or produce any change in opinion or measures. But if men of corrupt principles should thus predominate, they might choose rather to submit to a despot of their own selection, than hazard the loss of their ill acquired influence. From our situation we have the means of safety, in a peculiar manner, in our own power, and it depends upon ourselves, whether as a people we become the most respectable or the most wretched. If we are united in all actions, if we retain a frugal course of living and are animated with zeal for the public good, we shall possess resources fully sufficient for our security; and shall rise to the highest state of public honor and happiness. But if intestine divisions and civil discord prevail, we shall be exposed, not only to foreign insults, but to those revengeful domestic enormities which have been the terror and disgrace of other nations. It is the great duty then of every citizen, instead of exciting variance and party strife which are the sources of confusion and misery, to promote concord among the people. And it will be the aim of good governments to unite the citizens in the ties of friendship, and make the happiness of the state consist in the harmony of its several parts. Such a government will be superior to selfish considerations and partial attachments; and will inspire respect by the equity and uniformity of its principles, by a constant adherence to probity and good faith in its measures, and by causing moral rectitude to be had in honor. You will readily perceive gentlemen, that our safety would be endangered by a general relaxation either of the military or the political virtues; a decay of the former would expose us to foreign aggression, and by the decline of the latter, we should become an easy prey to ambitious projects of restless and aspiring men among ourselves. The history of other republics will serve to lay open to our view, the disguises under which tyranny may be introduced in a free state. In the modern republics of Europe, the scenes which were formerly displayed in those of Greece and Rome, have been repeated. Dissension and party spirit were excited among the people, and their passions were artfully inflamed against the most able and virtuous citizens! and against those institutions and restraints which wisdom had devised, and the experience of ages had sanctioned. These republics, one after another, have lost their freedom, and have been subjected to domestic usurpation or foreign dominion, by the intrigues of men who affected the language of patriots while they aspired to the power of masters; and who under the specious pretext of asserting the rights of the people, betrayed and overthrew them. Let us take warning from their errors and misfortunes, and may Heaven preserve us from a similar destiny. CALEB STRONG. January 18, 1805. TO RENT, On very moderate terms, FOUR two story brick dwelling houses. ON north H street, square No. 77, directly south of the Six Buildings. For terms apply to T. H. GILLISS At the Navy-Office Washington City, Nov. 2d, 1804—M&tt

Foreign Intelligence.
Latest from Europe received at New Bedford.
The last London date, in the Courier, is the 24th November, about 20 days later than before received from England.
M. Talleyrand, (Sep. 5th) issued by order of the emperor, a very angry circular note, directed to all the French agents, denouncing the conduct of the English government touching the laws of nations, and ordering those agents to declare to the governments with which they resided, "that his majesty will not acknowledge the English Corps Diplomatique in Europe, so long as the British ministry shall not abstain from charging its ministers with any agency in war."
The question of peace or war between England and Spain, was not settled—Though the Spanish minister continued in London, and transacted business at the secretary of states' office, the 20th November, and though, at the last dates, no orders had been issued for the detention of Spanish merchant vessels, yet a war was generally considered as unavoidable.
The editor is indebted to the attention of captain Stevens, arrived here from Cowes, for a file of the London "Morning Chronicle," from the 15th to the 24th inclusive; although 21 days later than before received, they contain but few articles of the first importance.
Sir George Rumbold, the British minister to the circle of Lower Saxony, who was lately seized by an armed French force at his house near Hamburg, in pursuance of an order from the minister of police, at Paris, has been liberated through the interference of Prussia, and has arrived in London.
The Porte, it appears, has refused to acknowledge Bonaparte's imperial dignity. In consequence of which, Gen. Brune, the French ambassador at Constantinople demanded his passports on the 6th, and left that city on the 12th October on his return to France.
The relations between the Cabinet of St. Cloud and that of Vienna appear to be intimate and friendly. Denmark and Sweden remain inactive.
The subject of "the invasion" is scarcely noticed in our London papers. At the last dates, admiral Cornwallis had resumed his situation off Brest.
A French agent in Holland has notified the merchants therein, that all neutral ships arriving in Holland, which have touched at an English port, after 14 days from the 12th Nov. would, with their cargo be condemned.
On the 1st November, a terrible fire destroyed the whole south-west part of the city of Gottenburg, (Sweden) containing besides public edifices, between two and three hundred houses; dislodging more than 7000 people.
FROM SPAIN—LATEST.
A letter from Madrid, dated Nov. 8, 1804, says, "The British minister has left this city, and there are no doubt of a war between Great Britain and Spain."
WASHINGTON CITY.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 30.
The Legislature of Maryland have, in conference with our hopes, so modified the bill for divesting certain territories of learning and corporate towns of the funds allowed them by the state, as to apply exclusively to the latter.
(By Authority.)
AN ACT
Making appropriations for the support of the Navy of the United States, during the year one thousand eight hundred and five.
Be it enacted, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That for defraying the expenses of the Navy of the United States, during the year one thousand eight hundred and five, the following sums be, and the same are hereby respectively appropriated, that is to say:
For the pay and subsistence of the officers, and the pay of the seamen, four hundred and fifteen thousand five hundred and seventy-eight dollars:
For provisions, two hundred and twenty-seven thousand seven hundred and eighty-six dollars, and forty cents:
For medicine, instruments, hospital stores, and all expenses on account of the sick, ten thousand seven hundred and fifty dollars:
For repairs of vessels, store rent, and other contingent expenses, four hundred and eleven thousand nine hundred and fifty-one dollars, and two cents:
For the pay and subsistence of the Marine Corps, including provisions for those on shore, and forage for the staff, eighty-two thousand five hundred and ninety-three dollars, and sixty cents:
For clothing for the same, sixteen thousand five hundred and thirty-six dollars and ninety-eight cents:
For military stores for the same, one thousand six hundred and thirty-five dollars:
For Medicine, medical services, hospital stores, and all expenses on account of the sick belonging to the marine corps:
one thousand two hundred and fifty dollars:
For Quarter Master's and Barrack Master's stores, officers travelling expenses, armourers' and carpenters' bills, fuel, premium for enlistment, music, and other contingent expenses, eight thousand four hundred and nineteen dollars:
For the expense of navy yards, docks, and other improvements, the pay of superintendents, store keepers, clerks and labourers, sixty thousand dollars:
For completing the marine barracks at the city of Washington, three thousand five hundred dollars:
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the several sums herein specifically appropriated, and amounting altogether to the sum of one million two hundred and forty thousand dollars, shall be paid, first, out of the monies accruing at the end of the year one thousand eight hundred and five, from the duties laid by the act passed on the twenty fifth day of March one thousand eight hundred and four, intitled "An act further to protect the commerce and seamen of the United States against the Barbary powers," provided that the sum to be paid from the proceeds of the said duties shall not exceed five hundred and ninety thousand dollars;
Secondly, out of any balance remaining unexpended of former appropriations for the support of the navy; and lastly out of any monies in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated.
NATH. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOS. ANDERSON, President of the Senate, pro-tempore. January 25, 1805. APPROVED. TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
Making an appropriation for Completing the South Wing of the Capitol, at the City of Washington; and for other purposes.
Be it enacted, by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That a sum not exceeding one hundred and ten thousand dollars, shall be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, towards completing the South Wing of the Capitol, at the city of Washington.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That a sum not exceeding twenty thousand dollars, shall be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be applied under the direction of the President of the United States, to such necessary alterations and repairs, as he may deem requisite, in the North Wing of the Capitol, and other public buildings at the city of Washington; which said sums shall be paid out of any monies in the Treasury, not otherwise appropriated.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. JOS. ANDERSON, President of the Senate pro-tempore. January 25, 1805—APPROVED. TH: JEFFERSON.
STONE CUTTERS.
WANTED at the City of Washington, a number of STONE CUTTERS, to whom liberal encouragement is offered, and what is more desirable to young men of aspiring genius, as well as gratifying to those experienced; the work to be done this season is of a kind, superior to any yet done in the United States. Apply to GEORGE BLAGDEN, at the Capitol. January 30.—6t.
Portrait of the President.
THOSE gentlemen who are desirous of obtaining copies of the Portrait of the President, just finished, by REMBRANDT PEALE, are requested to call at his Painting Room at Miss Dashiell's, Pennsylvania avenue, where the picture can be seen for a few days, during which R. Peale will remain in this city January 31.
A Family of Negroes FOR SALE.
THE subscribers will dispose of by private sale (pursuant to the will of Ann Digges deceased) the following negroes without dividing any one of the family from the other, viz. GEORGE, aged about 47 or 48 years, stout and healthy, a very handy negro for every part of field work and a good mower, reaper and stacker of grain, &c.—GRACE his wife, aged about 37 years, brought up in a regular family as a house servant, to which she is fully equal, and is a remarkable good seamstress, laundress, and a tolerable cook. Also their two children, one a girl about three years old, and an infant at the breast. Application to be made to THOS. DIGGES of Warburton near Pitsylvania, or WM. CARROLL, Rock creek, Montgomery county, Executors. Jan. 30.—wyt
FOR SALE,
A NEGRO WOMAN and her three Children, the eldest of whom is nine years of age, and the youngest three; the woman is about 33 years old. For further particulars enquire of Captain HOBAN. January 30.—3t
The American Gardener.
District of Columbia, to wit:
BE it remembered that on this eighteenth day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and four, John Gardener and David Mepburn of the District aforesaid (late gardener to Gov. Mercer and Gen. Mason) hath deposited in the Clerk's Office of the district court of the United States for the district of Columbia, the title of a book the right whereof they claim as authors, in the words following, to wit: "The American Gardener, containing ample directions for working a kitchen garden every month in the year, and copious instructions for the cultivation of flower gardens, vine yards, nurseries, hop yards, green houses and hot houses;" in conformity to the act of the United States, entitled, "An act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts, and books to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned."
He therefor work for sale at the pro- tors, and at the book stores, &c. Jan. 30.—wyt
ADVERTISEMENT.
THE proprietor wishes to SELL or RENT, on moderate terms, a neat two story framed house, eligibly constructed for the accommodation of a private family. Situated on 11th near F street, about 150 yards from the Bank and nearly the same distance from the Theatre. Persons wishing to purchase or rent, will please to apply to Mr. William Woodward, Pennsylvania Avenue, or to the subscriber. Possession may be had on the 21st day of April next. MARK STOCKWELL. 29th Jan.—2wtf
For Sale, 141 ACRES OF LAND.
THE property of Richard Mitchell, laying in Prince George county Maryland, about 5 miles from Piscataway, 13 miles from Upper Marlboro, 8 from Nottingham and 17 from the city of Washington, adjoining the land of the Rev. George Ralph, Thomas Mud, and John Robertson. The terms of sale made known by application to the subscriber legally authorized, who is now at M'Laughlin's George town, and will remain there till about the 14th or 15th of February. MATTHEW WALTON, P. S. If the above land is not disposed of at private sale before the 9th of February, it will on that day be sold on the premises to the highest bidder. M. W. January 30.—1t
NEW Store.
BY WHOLESALE AND RETAIL. The subscriber informs the public that he has commenced business in the house formerly occupied by MR. QUINN, F. Street; And has on hand, a general assortment of dry goods, Groceries, wines and spirituous liquors.
Porter, Hardware and Cutlery, Queenware, China and Glass, Flour, Corn, and Corn-meal, Oats and Chopped rye, Candles and Soap by the box, Country whiskey by the barrel, and few casks of genuine old Irish whiskey All of which he will sell low for cash or country produce. The HIGHEST prices, given for country produce, CASH. FRANCIS CLARK. Aug. 29.—wtf.
A Grand Concert OF INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC.
P. Mauro, Professor of Music, RESPECTFULLY informs the Ladies and Gentlemen of Washington, George-town and its vicinity, that he intends holding a Grand Concert of Instrumental Music (provided sufficient encouragement offers) in the Ball-Room of Mr. M'Laughlin's, on the evening of Monday the 11th of February next, when the following pieces of Music will be performed, to the full satisfaction of the audience:
Act I. 1st. A Grand Symphony—Mozart, with full orchestra. 2d. The Battle of Prague, on the Piano, by a young Lady, pupil to Mr. Mauro. 3d. A Grand Concerto—Korich, on the Piano, by Mr. Mauro, accompanied by other instruments. 4th. A Grand Concerto—Steibelt, on the violin, by Mr. Hupfield, accompanied by other instruments. 5th. Sonata—Pleyel, on the Piano, by Mr. Mauro, accompanied by violin and violoncello. Act II. 1st. A Grand Symphony—Widerkehr, executed by Mr. Mauro, on the Piano, and by Mr. Masse, on the clarinet, accompanied with full orchestra. 2d. Life let us cherish, with variations, on the Piano, by a young Lady of 8 years old, pupil to Mr. Mauro. 3d. Grand Concerto on the clarinet, by a new performer lately from Europe, accompanied with other instruments. 4th. Grand Sonata—Walter, on the Piano, by Mr. Mauro, accompanied by violin and violoncello. 5th. Quartetto—with two violins, a viol and violoncello.—To conclude with a Military Piece by all the instruments. As P. Mauro does not commence this undertaking from particular views of emolument, but principally for the purpose of affording an agreeable entertainment to the inhabitants of Washington and George Town, he respectfully solicits the amateurs of music, &c. to subscribe their names, on papers left for that purpose, at the bars of Messrs. Stelle's Hotel, on Capitol Hill, Rhodes's, near the Treasury Department, and M'Laughlin's, George Town, as early as possible, thereby to enable him to judge if sufficient encouragement offers to defray the incurring expense of procuring performers from Baltimore, to assist at the entertainment. Subscribers to pay one dollar each, on the delivery of Tickets of admission, some days previous to the Concert. January 18.—3taw
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
WHEREAS by the 5th article of the terms and conditions declared by the President of the United States on the 17th day of October, 1791, for regulating the materials and manner of buildings and improvements on the Lots in the City of Washington, it is provided "that the outer and party walls of all houses in the said city shall be built of brick or stone." And by the third article of the same terms and conditions it is declared "that the wall of no house shall be higher than forty feet to the roof in any part of the city, nor shall any be lower than thirty five feet on any of the Avenues." And whereas the above recited articles were found to impede the settlement in the city, of mechanics and others, whose circumstances did not admit of erecting houses authorized by the said regulations, for which cause the operation of the said articles has been suspended by several acts of the President of the United States, from the fifth day of June, in the year 1796, to the first day of January next—and beneficial effects arising from such suspensions having been experienced, it is deemed proper to revive the same with the exception hereafter mentioned.
Wherefore, I THOMAS JEFFERSON, President of the United States, do declare that the first and third articles above recited shall be, and the same are hereby suspended until the first day of January, in the year one thousand eight hundred and six, and that all houses which shall be erected in the said city of Washington previous to the said first day of January, in the year one thousand eight hundred and six, conformable in other respects to the regulations aforesaid, shall be considered as lawfully erected, except that no wooden house covering more than three hundred and twenty square feet, or higher than twelve feet from the sill to the eve shall be erected, nor shall such house be placed within twenty-four feet of any brick or stone house.
Given under my hand the twentieth day of December, 1804. TH: JEFFERSON. Dec. 24.—1wtf
NEW STORE, SEVEN BUILDINGS, CITY OF WASHINGTON
THE Subscriber, who lately opened store at the west corner of the Seven Buildings, has just received by captain Elwood, from Philadelphia, an extensive assortment of dry goods, amongst which are a variety of fancy articles, viz.
London superfine and second cloths, cassimere, nappis, coatings, forest cloths, hockings, London hats, lannels, bays, blankets, counterpanes, dimities, stuffs and durants, London best letter paper, common writing do. sealing wax, wafers, quills, pencils & paste board, fancy waistcoating, linens, Irish and German, Russia sheeting, dia- per, bed ticking, velvets, cords and thick- sets, patent bennets cord, Barcelona handkerchiefs, bandannos one bale coarse mus- line, checks, shirting muslin, best Spanish segars, chandeliers, goblets, decanters and salt cellars. ALSO, Ladies silk spencers for the win- ter, elegant silk and mullin shawls, veils, ridiculous crapes, tarsenets, fig. Mantua and other ribbons, India mull mull, cam- bric, jacquet and hook muslins, split fraw, chip and Leghorn bonnets, silk veils, tenshawls, lutestrings and plain silks, Eng- lish and French silk hollery, pic nic gloves, and mitts, raw silk, wash leather, beaver and kid gloves, curtle shell com- necklaces and beads of great variety, lace, purples and fans, silk cord, childrens leather caps, handsome muff boxes, wadding, &c.
Piano fortes, violens, violen strings, music, fresh hyson tea &c. The subscriber has imported his London superfine cloth, hats and part of his other woollens himself and can therefore sell them unusually low by wholesale and retail. THOMAS W. PAIRO, Nov. 9.—3twt
RUNAWAY NEGRO.
WAS committed to the jail of Frederick county, on the 18th of October last, as a runaway, a negro man, who calls himself, WILLIAM BLACKSTON, and says that he is a free man. He is 5 feet 6 inches high, and about 27 years of age. The clothes which he has on are a brown cloth coat, a wanldown waistcoat, dark cloth overalls, a tow linen shirt, and a wool hat. His owner is desired to come, prove property pay charges and take him away, or he will be sold for his jail fees agreeably to law. GEORGE CREAGER, Sheriff of Frederick county. November 16.—1aw8
100 DOLLARS REWARD.
RANAWAY, two months ago, about the middle of November, a Negro Man, named TOM DANIEL, five feet ten inches high, black complexion, has lost some of his jaw teeth, very knock kneed, about 45 years of age. It is supposed that he has made to the northward, and has a free pass. He took with him a grey mare, and is very fond of driving a cart—Apply to RALPH LANE, Centreville, Fairfax county, Virginia. wt
DISCOVERED, a few day since (in the Telegraph) a challenge by Samuel Norwood, Esq. Bonaparte against Democrat.
At Annapolis this fall, I proposed running Democrat against Bonaparte, carrying from 110 lbs to 140 at the discretion of Mr. Norwood; which was rejected. As Mr. Norwood refused the proposition made by me at that time, I am not bound to run the race proposed by him in the Telegraph—Democrat will run Bonaparte over the Annapolis race course, on the third Tuesday in May next, four miles and repeat, for 1000 DOL- LARS, play or pay, carrying 120lbs. each; which is the weight they are to carry by the rules of racing, both being seven years old. Should Mr. Norwood decline this offer, Democrat will cover mares next spring at the subscribers farm, from the first day of March until the first day of August, at Sixteen dollars each and Fifty cents for the groom. Democrat's pedigree is equal to the pedigree of any horse to be produced, having in him the blood of Medley, Eclipse, Figure, Dove, Godolphin, Arabian, and Mr. Tassin's Jilima.
If this proposition is approved of by Mr. Norwood, notice will be given in the Maryland Gazette within forty days from the date hereof. ISAAC DUCKETT. December 21.—tawt Apr 30

NOTICE.
THE Legionary Court of Enquiry of the 1st Legion of Militia of the district of Columbia, which met at adjournment the 19th inst. is further adjourned to meet on Saturday the 2nd February next at the same time and place. WM. D. BEALL, Ck. 1st. L. M. D. C. January 28—3t
City Lots for Sale.
THE undermentioned lots of ground are offered for sale, either separately or by squares, on liberal terms either for cash or on credit—they are all free from mortgage or encumbrance, and are subject to no litigation or contest, as the titles are derived by immediate conveyances from the chancellor of Maryland and the commissioners of Washington, to Messrs. Henry Pratt, Thomas Willing Francis, John Mither, junior, John Ashley and Jacob Baker, trustees of the Aggregate Fund. Square No. 54 Lot no. 9—19 72. Lots no. 2 4 8 10 12 13 14 17 18 19 84 101 no. 1 Sq 85 Lots no. 20 21 22—Sq 103 Lots no. 7 8—Sq 145 Lots no. 1 2 7 8—Sq 146 Lots no. 1 2 3—Sq 147 Lot no. 4—Sq 163 Lots no. 5 6 7 12 13 14—Sq 218 Lots no. 6 7 10 11 12 15 16—Sq 293 Lots no. 1 2 3 7 8 11 12 13 18—Sq 349 Lots no. 1 2 8—Sq 376 Lots no. 10 16 17 18—Sq 409 Lots no. 3 4 7 8 9 17 18—Sq 487 Lots no. 5 6 7 10—Sq 488 Lots no. 8 9 12 13—Sq 489 Lots no. 6 9 Sq 491 Lots no. 10 11 12 19 20 24—Sq 493 Lots no. 7 8—Sq 494 Lots no. 8 9 10—Sq 531 Lots no. 3 4 11 12 13 14 Sq 533 Lots no. 13 15 16 17—Sq 584 Lots no. 1 2 3 4 21 22 23 24—Sq 588 whole square. Balf of 590 whole square. Sq 635 Lots no. 1 2 3 5 6 9 19—Sq 638 Lots no. 1 2 3—Sq 639 Lot no. 1—Sq 640 Lots no. 1 2 3 4 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18—Sq 641 whole square—Sq 642 Lots no. 1 6—8 9 10 11 12 13 14 19—Balf of 643 Lot no. 2—South of 643 Lots no. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20—Sq 644 Lots no. 1 5 7—West of 645 whole square—Sq 878 Lots no. 16 17 18 19 20—Sq 973 Lots no. 4 5 6 7 8 20 21—Sq 995 Lots no. 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18—South of 1019 Lots no. 1 2 4—Sq 1020 Lots no. 2 3 4 5 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38—Sq 1021 Lot no. 1—Sq 1022 Lot no. 2—Sq 1023 Lots no. 4 5 7 8 9 10—Sq 1044 Lots no. 1 2 3 7—Sq 1045 Lots no. 9 10 13—Sq 1046 Lots no. 2 14 15—Sq 1047 Lots no. 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 19 20—Sq 1048 Lots no. 7 8 9 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23.
Persons disposed to purchase are desired to apply to JAMES GREENLEAF, Agent and attorney to the trustees of the Aggregate Fund. Washington, New Jersey avenue, Jan. 21—3t&wf
ONE CENT REWARD.
Ranaway from the subscriber on Tuesday the 22nd inst. a white bound servant girl, named Matilda Edmundson , but more generally known by the name of Patty Edmundson , between 13 and 14 years of age. She is inferior to no one in the art of lying, and to but few in that of stealing. The above reward will be given to any person who shall bring her home, but no charges paid. All persons are forewarned employing or harboring her at their peril. T. H. GILLIS. Washington, Jan. 25—2t
ADAM KING, & Co.
AT their wine store in High street George Town, have in addition to their stock of old wines, laid in a large and general assortment of all kinds of Liquors and Groceries suitable to the present season; where bills of any description, in their line, will constantly be filled up on the shortest notice and they flatter themselves, from the quality of their wines, &c. they will be able to give general satisfaction to all those who may think proper to favor them with a call—where all kind of commission business as usual, will be attended to with the utmost attention. George Town, November 5—tf
This day is published by
SAMUEL H. SMITH, —price 50 CENTS— A DEFENCE of the MEASURES OF THE ADMINISTRATION of THOMAS JEFFERSON. BY CURIUS. Taken from the National Intelligencer
FOR SALE.
Two hundred and thirty-six acres of LAND joining the Potomac river, 18 miles above the city of Washington, 50 acres of which lie well for meadow, and may conveniently be watered—There is on this plantation a considerable orchard of apple, peach and cherry, also a valuable geared saw-mill, in good repair. This mill feat merits attention; it commands 18 feet fall, and a stream sufficiently weighty, at all seasons, to work a complete merchant mill—It has been pronounced by a good judge, a suitable seat for a paper mill, as a sufficient quantity of pure water, may easily be conveyed 14 feet high in the works. This saw-mill is in a most advantageous situation for business, there being a large supply of valuable timber, oak, ash, poplar and walnut convenient, to be purchased on moderate terms, and conveyed by water at little expense, to the mill; plank and scantling of this timber, is always in demand at Georgetown, the City and Alexandria, and commands a good price. To this market, 10 waggon loads in a boat may be conveyed in 6 hours and with less expense and trouble, than it could be hauled, 3 miles by land carriage. This property will be sold on moderate terms, one third of the purchase money will be required in hand, and such an indulgence given on the residue, as the profits of the saw mill with attention, will readily meet. For further information apply to JOHN BRECKENRIDGE. Washington, Jan. 23—3t If the property is not sold by the 10th of March, it will be to rent.
New Book-Store,
No. 61, St. Patrick's Row, Baltimore, under the firm of American Book Store of Levrault, Schoell & Co. OF PARIS, Where will be kept a complete assortment of ENGLISH, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Latin and Greek Books, bound in the handsomest style; Maps, Engravings, Pictures and Music, and of every article relating to arts and sciences—The whole of which will be sold at the Paris and Leipzig prices, without any charges, except the indispensable expenses. To Book-sellers, who wish to purchase English, Latin and Greek classics a generous allowance and uncommonly liberal terms are offered. Printers may be supplied with all kinds of Types; the samples of which may be viewed or bought at the store. Commission business in this line will be promptly and punctiliously attended to. Lovers of arts and sciences may be supplied with catalogues, which have already appeared and will appear at the time of new imports, either by personal application or by letter, post paid. January 11—2a3w—UG3t.
Ten Dollars Reward.
DESERTED from on board the United States Frigate United States, on the night of Friday the 25th January a man named DANIEL FLANAGAN about 5 feet 5 inches high, light made, light blue eyes. Had on when he went away, an old blue coat much worn, corduroy pantaloons much worn, said Flanagan speaks English very imperfectly. Whoever will apprehend the said Deserter & deliver him to the subscriber, shall receive the above reward and reasonable expenses. JOHN CASSIN. January 23—3t.
Valuable Land for Sale.
The executors of the last will and testament of Anthony Holmead deceased, will sell at private sale about forty acres of Land adjoining the city of Washington at the northern extremity of 20th street west. This land is generally allowed to be one of the handiest situations near the city, having a beautiful prospect of nearly the whole of the city of Washington, Alexandria and George Town, and any person inclined to purchase this valuable property, will be shown the same, and know the terms by application to the subscriber near the premises JOHN HOLME D. The subscribers have opened a VINEYARD STORE in the house near the Capitol, lately occupied by Mr. JAMES D. BARREY—where they have for sale, low, for cash or in exchange for country produce. Genuine Cogniac brandy, Inferior French do. Old Jamaica spirits, Madeira, Sherry, } Wines, by the quarter cask Lisbon, } and cask, or smaller quantity. Claret, Brown Sugar, 1st and 2d quality, Loaf and Lump, do. Molasses, Firkin Butter, Mould Candles, Sweet Oil, Spices of different kinds, Fig Blue, Starch, Almonds, Anchovies, } In bottles. Capers, Powder and Shot, Excellent Wine Vinegar, Gin, Whiskey, Hylon, } Teas, fresh, and of su- Imperial, } perior quality. Young Hyson, Salt Herrings in Barrels. PETER HEALY, & Co. Washington October 21—tf
ROBERT CHERRY.
HAS removed his store, to the house of Mr. George Blagden New Jersey avenue on the Eastern Branch, where he has just received (in addition to his former stock) by the steamer Hyland from Philadelphia a general assortment of groceries and liquors of superior quality, with a few boxes India china of the best quality eighty pieces to the set; all of which he will sell wholesale and retail at the most reduced prices for cash, or in exchange for country produce—All orders in his line will be executed with punctuality and dispatch; he has benefited from the quality of his articles he will be able to render ample satisfaction to his friends and all those who may be pleased to favor him with their custom. ALL kinds of commission business will be attended to with the utmost attention. Washington city Dec. 12—tf
ALL persons who are indebted to the estate of Michael Roberts deceased (for debts contracted at his store in George Town) are requested to come forward immediately and make payment to Edgar Paterson, who is duly authorized to receive the same, otherwise their accounts will be put in suit without discrimination—those who have demands against said store, if any there are, are requested to apply as above for payment. FRANCES ROBERTS, Executrix. THOMAS CUMPS ON } Executors JOSEPH WILLIAMS } George town, 26th Dec. 1804—cpim
NOTICE is hereby given to ROBERT BOYES and JAMES BOYES, who now living, children of Robert Boyes, who was the son of the late Col. Boyes, of Londonderry in the county of Rockingham and state of New Hampshire, deceased; which said Robert the elder left Londonderry aforesaid upwards of thirty years ago, married in Baltimore in the state of Maryland, and removed to Virginia and there died; that, if they will apply to Silas Betton of Salem in the state of New Hampshire, now in the city of Washington, or to Alexander Boyes of Londonderry aforesaid, may hear of some property worth their attention. The several printers of Virginia and Maryland will serve the cause of humanity by republishing the above. Jun. 9
STATIONARY & TANCY STORE GEORGE TOWN.
THE Subscriber has just received from New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore, a large and general supply of STATIONARY &c.—Amongst which are the following articles, viz. Atlases imperial, superroyal, royal, medium and demy English papers, Extra large thick folio post, do. Do. do. thin do. hotpressed do. Small, plain and wove folio post do. Plain and wove foolscap do. Hotpressed, gilt, mourning, wove and plain letter do. Folio and quarto copying do. Super Royal cartridge do. Medium, demy and foolscap French marble do. Demy blotting do. Paste and bonnet boards, Single and double ruled ledgers, journals, and waste books Medium, demy and foolscap blank books suitable for public offices Best Holland quills and ready made pens Black and red ink and ink powders Japan and durable ink Printing ink for book and newspaper use Red and black sealing wax Red and black wafers Large red and white wafers for office use Wax tapers and taper stands Counting house seals Pink and blue silk tape Broad and narrow red tape Ball and hank twine Cases of mathematical instruments Reading glasses in horn and tortoise shell frames Gold leaf Parchment squared and pounced Seventy fifth bone and pounces Ivory and bone pounce boxes Black lead, crayon and camel's hair pencils Do. with silver cases Reeves colours in boxes Erasing knives and paper scissors Counting house and pocket pen knives Do. with ivory scale and rule handles Ivory and bone paper folders Round and flat rulers Gum Tragacanth and Gum Arabic Slates and slate pencils Plated, gilt, wedgewood, pewter, & pocket inkstands Sand boxes and sand flasks Black sand, and steel filings Messengers and visiting cards Geographical and genealogical palimes an arithmetical games with totums Portable writing desks with apartments for dressing apparatus Mahogany, japanned and Morocco shaving cases Shaving boxes with soap and brushes Razors of a superior quality Ladies and gentlemen's japanned dressing case Playing cards and ivory boxes with counters Cribbage boxes and boards Backgammon tables and dice boxes Ivory chessmen and chess boards Billiard balls and dice Drum battle doors and shuttles Violins, flutes and fifes Violin strings and bows Fowling pieces, shot pouches, and powder Horsemen's and pocket pistols [Bales] Silver and gilt mounted small swords, dirks and hangers Gold and silver epaulets and sword knots Do. do. shoulder straps and crescents Military sashes, lace, cords, &c. Officers travelling cases with cooking utensils &c. complete Gold and silver bullion, spangles and thread An elegant assortment of gold, silver and gilt mounted combs Gold and silver hair sides Wreaths and bunches of artificial flowers Ostrich feathers, fancy plumes, &c. Tortoise shell and superfine ivory combs Coquillo and jet necklaces Gentlemen's doe skin and dress gloves Boots, shoes and pumps Morocco skins, and bend soles Bailey's and Morley's patent blacking Hair powder and pomatum Powder bags and powder puffs Tortoise shell and horn dressing combs Curling tongs and crumpling irons Wash ball and wash ball boxes Tooth powder and shaving powder Essence of musk, lavender, burgamot and am-segar boxes and snuff boxes [bergreafe] Tooth brushes and tooth picks Clothe brushes and hat brushes Sweeping, dusting, scrubbing, shoe and fur niture brushes Switch, chair and carriage whips Walking sticks and sword canes Silk and morocco elastic braces Green wire fenders with brass tops ornamented Fashionable brass and irons Coal hods, cinder sifters and pokers An elegant assortment of japanned tea trays Satin wood and mahogany knife cases Green and white ivory tables and desert knives and forks in sets Elegant plated tea and coffee urns Plated tea and coffee pots Do. bread baskets and toast stands Do. candlesticks and branches Do. snuffers and snuffer trays Do. casters, double flint cut glasses Do. salts with do. do. Do. mugs, tumblers and bottle stands Gold, pebble and glass watch seals Do. watch chains and keys Do. rings, broaches and breast pins Plated and common coach and gig lamps Do. furniture for harness double and single horse Do. mouldings for carriages Do. gig springs, and hubb bands Do. chaise, duke and snaffle bridle bits Do. horn, bridoons and curbs Do. patent and common spurs Japanned lamps and hand lanthorns. Lamp wick and lamp glasses Worsted Webb and saddle cloths Mill and crofs cut faws Gentlemen's tool chests Travelling trunks, &c. ALSO—FOR SALE, An Invoice of Hardware Which will be sold low at a credit of six months. EDGAR PATTERSON. Nov. 12—tf.
FOR Sale, one undivided third of that most valuable estate, held in common by Messrs. Josiah Collins, Nathaniel Allen, and the heirs of Samuel Dickenson, deceased, commonly called the Lake Company. The said estate consists of 53,000 acres of land, in Washington, North Carolina, lying between the canal and Long acre, bounding on Lake Phelps, Pungo Lake, and the head of Pungo river. Also, 5,000 acres of Land in Gum Neck, near Little Allegator river, in Tyren county. The above lands are equal if not superior for fertility of soil, to any land within the state: no part of them are subject to frescoes or overflowings from said Lakes or Rivers; but a very considerable part may by laid under water or kept perfectly dry, at pleasure, by means of said canal. This canal, formerly cut by said company to join the waters of Lake Phelps to scuppernong river is 20 feet wide, 6 feet deep, and affords an excellent navigation the distance of 6 miles, on one side of the first tract; on it and on the Lake is the plantation containing about 250 acres of cleared land in a high state of cultivation. The produce in general is for one acre, in wheat, about 30 bushels, in rice from 50 to 60 do. and in Indian corn in good seasons about 63 1/2 do. taking the whole crop together. In dry seasons hemp has been very productive. On the plantation is a rice machine in complete order, in a building 72 feet long, 42 feet wide, and 4 stories high. Also a grit-mill with a pair of stones for corn, and a pair of stones for wheat, with two holting cloths, &c. Also a threshing machine in excellent order. There is a saw mill which is now repairing, to carry one saw, and is intended to be in the same frame with a merchant mill to carry 3 or 4 pair of stones for manufacturing out, &c. There is a good dwelling house two stories high, and all sorts of out houses, besides two barns and stables, &c. There are 61 negroes above 12 years of age, amongst them are tradesmen of different kinds—Also 33 negroes under 12 years of age. There are carpenter's cooper's and black smith's tools, besides every kind of plantation utensils, in good order. Horses, hogs, sheep, and about 100 head of cattle. Three large flats for the use of the canal &c. The medium crops when making rice and corn, is from 220 to 280 casks of rice 600lb. gross each, from 3 to 600 barrels of corn. Do. when making wheat, from 160 to 190 casks of rice, from 3 to 400 barrels of corn, 1300 bushels of wheat. Lumber from the saw mill when employed with two faws, has sold from 2500 to 3000 dollars yearly, employing 12 hands. Flax cotton and hemp are not included, The rice has sold from 5 to 6 dollars per hundred, these several years past. Were there 40 hands more on the plantation, the profits might be reckoned at least one third, if not one half more, for each hand, and for as many more as could be put on it. Certified by THOS. ROTTER, Superintendent. Mr. Nathaniel Allen, of the town of Edenton, and one of the company, being desirous to sell his interest in said property, had authorized the subscriber to dispose of the same, in his behalf, and has put into his possession all the necessary documents for the information of the persons desirous or inclined to purchase; the terms of payment, are one fourth down, on the execution of the deed or deeds of conveyance, the remainder at two annual and equal payments, to be secured in the most unexceptionable way. The manner in which said property has been managed since the year 1787, when the company was formed, makes it a most desirable acquisition to gentlemen of capital, and by far outweighs the inconveniences attending property held in common, as a superintendent having the management and direction of the whole, with one or two overseers under him, renders it unnecessary for the proprietors to be at any farther trouble, concerning said estate, than an annual settlement. It will further appear by the above statement furnished from the company's books by Mr. Trotter, the present intendant, that the yearly produce of 250 acres now under tillage amounts to between 8 and 10,000 dollars annually, and that were 40 or 50 more working hands put on the said estate, the profits would nearly be double, with hardly any additional expense, as a much larger quantity of land might be laid under cultivation, with nearly the charges of the present farm. Any application by post to the subscriber, who resides near Plymouth, Washington county North Carolina, or to Mr. Allen himself, or Mr. Stephen Cabarrus of Edenton, will be duly attended to, and any further information, if required will cheerfully be imparted. JOHN ROULHAC, At. at Law Plymouth, N. C. Oct. 16, 1804—w2m * See Guthrie's Geography improved 2d volume, page 516 Philadelphia edition, April 1795. Nov. 23.
TO PRINTERS.
THE subscriber takes Order for Type from the well known Foundery of William Caslin, Jun. and Co. London—Specimens and list of London prices to be seen at Mr. Geo. W. Riggs, Georgetown. CHARLES WIRGMAN, No. 215, Market-street, Baltimore. Jan. 16. tf.
NOTICE.
IS hereby given that the sale of all those lands and lots heretofore advertised in the Washington Federalist, the National Intelligencer and the Baltimore Federal Gazette on the 20th day of August last for a tax due the county of Washington in the territory of Columbia for the year 1801 (which sale was to have taken place on Monday the 10th day of December next at Rhodes Hotel in the City of Washington) is postponed until the first Monday in February next, when, at the same place at 11 o'clock A. M. the sale will commence and continue from day to day until all are sold or so much thereof as will satisfy the tax and other charges due thereon unless the said tax and charges be paid previous to the day of sale. By order of the commissioners of the Levy Court, WASHINGTON BOYD, Collector of Washington County. December 8th, 1804. cptd
A FEW hundred bushels of white, well burnt STONE LIME, will be sold for 16 DOLLARS the 100 bushels, if any is for immediately, a less quantity than 100 bushels will not be sold at this price. Apply to CON. CONNINGHAM. November 8¢ Cash will be given for WELL cleaned BARLEY.
Runaway, Some time in April last a bright MULATTO WOMAN named FANNY, she is nearly 6 feet high and stout in proportion, thick lips, middling large eyes, very large breasts, bends forward when she stands or walks, quick in speech, and has very large feet, her apparel is not remembered, took with her a large bundle thereof, and it is probable often changes them—I have been informed that she is in the service of a Mr. Thompson in Georgetown, whoever secures her in Washington city jail so that her mistress, Mrs. Sarah Brooks gets her again or will deliver her to the subscriber in Upper Marlinton shall receive Ten dollars and all reasonable expenses paid by S. M. J. COOLIDGE, December 3—3t.
American Printer's goods. Calicoes, Shawls, Pocket Handkerchiefs, &c. manufactured by the subscribers near Baltimore, and sold at No. 13 Calvert street.
To remove that distrust often felt respecting new undertakings, and so prejudicial to manufacturing attempts in America, they think it proper to observe, that nothing is wanting in the business to enable good artists to perform their work here as well as in Europe. That they have these artists; that two of the partners were bred to the business in a factory of the best repute carried on by their father, long afterwards by themselves. They trust that while foreign goods are received without a question, an unreasonable suspicion will not prevent their countrymen from giving that trial to their goods, which only can prove their value. Besides a natural doubt, they know that certain interests, national as well as individual, will suggest objections to their undertaking. They have no difficulty in saying, that work of the like kind shall be as well executed here, as in other countries. The colors capable of being fixed, will be found as permanent; the cloths perhaps better substance, and the prices lower than of the imported cottons. M'CULLOCH & LUNNUNY, Baltimore, No. 13 Calvert Street. Sept. 17—tf
FALL GOODS.
THOMAS CARPENTER, TAYLOR, Pennsylvania Avenue, near the President's Square, HAS just received a very handsome assortment of Fall Goods. Orders executed with the greatest dispatch and fashion, and on the most moderate terms. Oct 31—tf
CHARLES H. VARDEN, MERCHANT TAYLOR. Has received from Philadelphia a handsome assortment of FALL goods, consisting of the best London and French superfine cloths, cambrics, patent Bennett's cord, toilettette, fancy and white Marcellines, black and figured silk, moleskins, fancy silk, Marcellines, constitution cords, velvets, Genoa cord, silk and satin Florentines, superfine coating, knapped cloths, with a variety of other articles suitable for the winter season. N. B. Ladies habits, regimentals, and navy uniforms made in the first style of fashion. New Jersey avenue near the Capitol, December 10—tf
IN virtue of an order from the Orphan's court of Calvert county [state of Maryland] I shall offer for sale on a credit of six months on bond with approved security, at the late dwelling of Benjamin Ward late of said county deceased. Two negro men, horses, cattle, sheep and hogs, with all the household and kitchen furniture, plantation utensils, and also corn, fodder, wheat, and the crop of tobacco now in the house—The sale of the above property will take place on Tuesday the 29th day of January 1805, (if fair or the first fair day thereafter) and commence at 12 o'clock in the forenoon.—All persons having claims against the estate of the said Benjamin Ward, are requested to exhibit the same on the day of sale, or they will be excluded in a distribution; and all persons indebted to said estate, are requested to make immediate payment to ZACARIAH WARD, Admr. Calvert Co. Jan. 9—3w
To be Sold by Auction.
ON Wednesday the 6th day of February next, in virtue of my power I will expose to sale at Mr. Stelie's hotel near the Capitol, the hour of sale Twelve o'clock A. M. the Lot No. 1, in square No. 377 and also a capital three story house the property of John Crocker together with all the improvements thereon for cash—the premises may be seen on the spot, and for any further particulars enquire of me THOMAS LAW. Washington Jan. 9—2awim
FOR SALE.
A Tract or parcel of land, containing one hundred thousand acres, surveyed in tracts of one thousand acres each, lying on the great Sassa and St. Mary's rivers in the counties of Wayne and Taliaferro in the state of Georgia, distant about 40 miles from the town of St. Mary's and the tea. This land is an undivided moiety of two adjoining tracts containing each 100,000 acres, and is remarkable for its extensive forests of large and valuable yellow pine, and the luxuriant growth of natural grass, affording an inexhaustible range of pasturage for cattle. It is also favorable for the culture of cotton, and lies in a very healthy district of country. A great bargain may be had to a purchaser of the whole undivided moiety; for terms of sale apply to JOHN BECKLEY. City of Washington. Sept. 12—tf