The national intelligencer and Washington advertiser. (Washington City [D.C.]), 1807-03-02 00:00:00

NATIONAL INTELLIGENCER, AND WASHINGTON ADVERTISER.
VOL. VII.
WASHINGTON CITY, PRINTED BY SAMUEL HARRISON SMITH, PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE.
No. 993.
FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM.
MONDAY, MARCH 2, 1807.
PAID IN ADVANCE.
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25.
Mr. Parke, from the committee to whom was referred the petitions of certain persons calling themselves a committee of the Illinois country, and petitions of other persons, the former in favor of dividing the Indiana territory, made a report, that it is inexpedient at this time to divide the Indiana territory, in which the House concurred.
An act making provision for the disposal of the public lands situated between the U. S. military tract and the Connecticut reserve, and for other purposes, was read the third time and passed.
The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, transmitting a statement of the exports of the U. S. for the last year.
A message was received from the Senate, stating that they insisted on their amendments to the Virginia military warrant bill; from their disagreement to which the House receded—Ayes 75.
A message was received from the Senate, stating that they had passed a bill in addition to an act for laying out a road from Cumberland, in Maryland, to the state of Ohio.
The bill appropriates 250,000 dollars, payable out of the proceeds of the sale of lands in the state of Ohio.
Referred to a committee of the whole to-morrow.
The House resolved itself into a committee of the whole—Mr. Bassett in the chair—on the bill making appropriations for the support of government for the year 1807.
After filling the various blanks, the committee rose and reported the bill.
The House resolved itself into a committee of the whole—Mr. Tenney in the chair—on the bill to amend the act entitled "An act to regulate and fix the compensation of clerks, &c."
Having filled the several blanks the committee rose and reported the bill, which was ordered to a third reading to-morrow.
SATURDAY, FEB. 21.
The order of the day being called for on the bill for better fortifying the ports and harbors of the U. S.
Mr. COOK moved to fill the blank with the sum of 300,000 dollars, and in support of his motion spoke as follows.
Mr. Chairman, when on a former occasion I proposed to appropriate one million of dollars for the purpose of fortifying the ports and harbors of this nation, my design was to propose a permanent and general appropriation, instead of the temporary annual grants hitherto made, and which are by many considered as little less than a waste of public money. Such grants not affording to the engineer the means to perfect a plan of sufficient boldness for our great and rapidly growing nation.
Reflection, and the discussions in this House have confirmed me in that opinion. I am convinced it would be the most proper mode of conducting a liberal system of defence for our country, and by far more economical than by partial and yearly grants.
The probable expense of fortifying the port of New-York has been estimated at 320,000 dollars; and I ask, sir, if that single object shall consume that sum, will 750,000 dollars be too large a sum to apportion among all our numerous ports from Saint Croix to Saint Mary's, and onward to the southern extremity of our newly acquired territory!
Can it be believed that the one thirteenth part of the annual revenue on import and tonnage is too heavy a sum to be taken from an overflowing treasury for the important object of securing for centuries to come, our numerous cities containing wealth beyond calculation. Is this sum more than sufficient to afford works of durable materials, & so permanently built as our lasting interest would direct.
However, with a view to meet the wishes of other gentlemen, a smaller sum is now proposed, which I hope will prevail.
Sir, in replying to novel opinions, it is not my intent to impeach any gentleman's motives, patriotism, or bravery. I shall impugn arguments and not persons. Indeed I should think myself guilty of defrauding the nation, were I to waste their time in those personalities and unmerited invectives which are strong points with some gentlemen, and very improperly permitted in this House.
To induce this House to apply but a small annual sum for the object before us, we have heard it predicted of fortifications, that they are worse than useless—and of cities, that they are untenable and unworthy of defence.
Were it not intuitively seen that cities are defensible and worthy of such defence—the doubting, if they be not reason proof, may be syllogistically convinced.
Thus we might say, what costs most labor, is most valuable—cities cost most labor, therefore are cities most valuable. What is most valuable is most worthy of defence. Cities are most valuable, therefore are cities most worthy of defence. But not to go farther into proving self-evident positions, who can be silent when measures of injustice, degradation and extreme calamity are thus recommended for our adoption? Are not the minds of the just, the liberal and the brave, revolted at the measures proposed? Is not this doctrine of Panem et Circenses abhorrent to all our just and social feelings, and to those inextinguishable feelings which gave us the country we are bound to defend? A new and untried mode of warfare is now urged upon us; a plan no less divergent from reason or plausibility of result, than it is from example or experience. Sir, I do not feel disposed that we should risk our all on a project so unpromising. It might suit a savage or an extremely barbarous nation, and would readily be adopted as statute law in Hayti. But Heaven forbid it should ever find advocates in this or any other polished or civilized nation.
Surely it would require the eloquence of a Catran to present you a picturesque and glowing description of all the horrors consequent upon an assailing foe, on a defenceless, populous and devoted city. The mind is painfully affected with the bare imagination of a retreating multitude of raised forlorn fugitives, despoiled of all the fond objects which had fastened them to life—a countless number of every age, sex, and condition, interspersed with the lame, blind, halt and withered croud to the country so numerously that the very ground might be supposed to groan beneath the weight and rebuke, the folly and madness of the despairing multitude. This monstrous doctrine of abandoning cities, navies, gun boats, and millions, to sack, pillage, and conflagration, at the mere sight of an enemy and of retreating to forests, to dens, to caverns of the earth, is unwarranted by examples in the ancient, dark, or modern ages. Indeed, sir, with the ancients, the city was the sine qua non of national existence. When Troy fell we hear no more of the Trojans, and the Carthaginians lost their name under the ruins of their city. In those days each city was defended as a Thermopylae. Modern tactics support a doctrine equally brave and politic—hence the propriety even under our late Fabian commander of the battles of Brandywine and Charlestown. Nor has Great Britain, although surrounded by floating castles, omitted strongly to fortify against a threatened invasion.
Mr. Chairman, if the slaves of a despot, or the subjects of a king compelled to fight for rights not their own, if they defend the apsis of their forts and bravely meet their foes at the parapet, shall we less valorously protect our dwellings, our property, our families, and our holy and sacred right of self-government?
Justly to appreciate our happy government, we should consider it what indeed I think it is, the only solitary one on earth, founded on the will and interest of the governed. For all others either in a greater or lesser degree, partake of force, fraud, or superstition.
We are also acting as proxies for posterity, and on us are fixed the eyes and hopes of the friends of long insulated humanity.
Shall we not act unwisely in the extreme if we lose our treasure, permit our strong boxes to be rifled, the emporiums of our wealth invaded by withholding the trivial expense of a lock? None candier, I think, than that by such timid parsimony, we may be suddenly and easily subdued by a conqueror, whose fancy may lead him to act like Charles the 12th, and send his boot as his deputy to rule the conscript fathers of this land.
I conceive it to be as conformable to the dictates of interest and policy, as it is to those of justice and socialness, that the enemy should be met at the water's edge, and will not gentlemen from the interior consider that the scene of pillage and war would be thus happily for them, far removed from their peaceful mansions and possessions?
Should a different mode of resistance be adopted, what sum of money is proposed for erecting asylums in the internal country, and what positions are to be selected for a retreating multitude. Immense sums would be expended—Labyrinths as extensive as that of Egypt will be found necessary to hide all but our active warriors. Such retreats would be found to be indispensable—your hospitality would soon be exhausted—added to which consideration, the fugitives would be dolesome companions to the protectors of wretchedness and misery.
As I verily believe that a defenceless state necessarily leads to a subjugated state, a sense of duty which I owe to myself, to my country, and to humanity, obliges me to expose the fallacy of such dangerous propositions.
I do most seriously and heartily detest and abhor royalty, and the doctrine of the many made for the few, or the many made for one. It is for this cause
that I would defend our republican rights against any and every assailant. Profuse expenditures which generate heavy burthens on the people are ever to be avoided; but it is not possible to verge to the opposite, though equally dangerous extreme—we should carefully shun the rock Scylla, but should we less cautiously avoid the vortex of Charybdis.
Sir, forms of government, like every other human production, are imperfect, perhaps the only weak part of democratic government is its liability to factions and extreme changes—hence we find in such governments flaming and restless zealots, who from system, make opposition to every measure their opponents may approve. The Roman generals adopted a different policy. The errors of the past administration may lead us to others, opposite indeed, but not less dangerous, as one extreme is too often succeeded by another.
But of gentlemen who are willing to look arguments in the face, and fairly meet them, I will ask, whether justice, good faith, or honesty, will permit them in these belligerent times, to suffer our ports and harbors to remain defenceless?
Justice is a cardinal virtue, and the only basis of all good government, and every government not thus founded, is from its nature evanescent or evidently fleeting. Sir, I will ask, if any be hardly enough to claim allegiance, and at the same time refuse protection?
Will you issue decrees of disfranchisement and excommunication? Will you put citizens at the ban of the empire and still claim of them obedience and revenue? If you should act thus unjustly, will you not drive the oppressed into rebellion? Will they not be justified in following the example of the ancient Thessalians, a people inhabiting a frontier state of Greece, who, when threatened with a Persian invasion, asked that their country should be fortified, and who being refused, joined the invaders to subdue their own countrymen.
It is an incontrovertible fact, that the minority have their rights, thus will eternally remain a fact so long as force and justice are distinct. The agricultural representation is, and will remain more numerous than that from the cities. Our interests are one, united and indivisible, and even were they not thus inseparably united, the genius of our government forbids unequal rights. Sir, it is for the sake of safety, justice, and protection that we associate in government—deny and refuse this, and all the uses of government are at an end.
The cities have their claims, the merchant and mariner have their rights, which we as legislators have sworn to defend, because we have sworn to support the constitution, and that constitution makes it our bounden duty to provide for the common defence and general welfare.
Many merchants are opposed to the administration; it is because they are not generally republicans? I hope not. Many of them perhaps, look too singly to their own interests, and because government does not do every thing for their protection, therefore they do nothing. If they ask too much, perhaps we are willing to grant them too little.
Sir, every species of government, of whatever name, which shall not equally protect every single individual of the nation in his civil and political rights is a tyranny, and as such to be deprecated and opposed.
"Not even the anointed hand of Heaven, Can authorise oppression, give a law For lawless power, wed faith to violation."
On reason, build, misrule, or in't bind Allegiance to injustice. Tyranny absolves all faith."
I lament that the mutualities of the different parts of this one great whole are so little attended to; that localities so much prevail over our minds. Do we to spectators appear in the sublime character of national representatives, or do we not rather too often appear as state, district, and even parish champions? I cannot but hope yet to see the proud day, when we shall become truly national, when the whole country shall appear to each, as one common and equal object of attention and care—when we shall view the whole as joint stock, and as such repel every violation.
Crowned heads must be inimical to the success of our experiment of self government; as its success goes to hurt their selfish trade of self-governing. Their forbearance is therefore uncertain and precarious, and we should be constantly ready to repel. Should they be permitted peaceably to land their hosts of veterans used only to the bayonet, I fear our militia would want time for seasoning, for they are not all equal to those of the division of my honorable colleague on my left; many are sadly armed and poorly equipped. In such an event a war of posts would be our only safety. Thus, sir, to a country defended by militia fortifications are absolutely indispensable. I ask, sir, of military men who served in our revolutionary war, could we without
fortifications now so decryed, have succeeded in that war?
As a relative we are constantly assailed with the cry of too soon or too late, too much or too little. Are we not immediately threatened? We are asked, why prepare, it is too soon. Are we actually threatened, insulted, and despoiled, then we are told it is quite too late, and we have no time to prepare. Is a liberal sum proposed, that is ruinous—is a small one named, it will be utterly useless. Thus I fear we shall be rushed to sleep on the verge of a precipice. To avert the evils of war, let us wisely be prepared to meet them. I trust, we shall yet, by such preparation, deter all aggressors, and by our justice and bravery, inscribe our freedom on the most lasting records of TIME.
SENATE UNITED STATES.
FEBRUARY 24.
The committee, to whom was referred the resolution proposing the appropriation of a quantity not exceeding acres of land, to assist in cutting out a canal at the rapids of the Ohio, have, according to order, had the same under consideration, and beg leave to
REPORT—
That they have attentively examined a survey of the rapids of the Ohio and the adjacent shore, accompanied by explanatory notes, made by a Mr. Jared Brooks, who appears to be a skillful and intelligent engineer: That this survey exhibits the sites proposed for the canal on the Kentucky shore, and its supposed contemplated route on the Indiana side; and its accuracy is certified by nine respectable gentlemen, who being appointed by the Kentucky legislature, to promote the execution of an act for incorporating a company for cutting the canal in question, have themselves examined the several objects delineated. Mr. Brooks has sunk, at short and convenient distances, shafts ascertaining the nature of the ground through which the canal is proposed to pass on the Kentucky shore, the various depths to the surface of the rock—and by his survey and notes has fully evinced the practicability of the object, and the superior advantages of the Kentucky over the opposite side. On the Kentucky shore, the requisite depth of the canal will be less, its length not so great by at least one third, a better bed afforded, firmer ground for its sides and far better harbors at its head and foot. From these circumstances it is presumed the expense of the undertaking will not be so great, by one half, on the Kentucky, as upon the opposite shore, and in Mr. Brooks opinion, will not exceed $200,000.
To open the canal, so as to admit of the passage of vessels of any burthen capable of navigating the Ohio, the legislature of Kentucky, at their session of 1804, passed an act incorporating a company, by the name of the Ohio canal company, which was amended by an act passed at their session of 1805. By the provisions of these acts, the company, is permitted to raise a capital of $500,000, composed of shares of fifty dollars each, is vested with suitable powers to accomplish the work, and upon its completion, authorised to charge reasonable tolls. On their part, the legislature of Kentucky, has directed a subscription for 1000 shares, and has invited the governments of the United States, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, and New York, all supposed to be more or less interested, to participate in the undertaking.
That the work is one of great and national importance, is undeniable. The immense country on the Ohio and its waters, above the rapids, in seeking a market for its surplus products, has to encounter the obstruction, in the navigation of that stream, which they present. This obstruction, never entirely free from danger, is such as to absolutely preclude the passage of vessel for several months in the year, in their descent, and when laden, for the whole year, in their ascent of the river. The rapidity of the current (which averages at the rate of from 10 to 11 miles an hour through the falls) leaves no alternative for a safe voyage up as well as down the river, but in a canal.
How far it is the policy of the government to aid in works of this kind, when it has no direct interest—whether indeed, in such a case it has the constitutional power of patronage and encouragement—is not necessary to be decided in the present instance. Being the proprietor of land bordering upon the Ohio, to a greater extent than any individual state, owning too an invaluable share near the Wabash, there can be
no doubt that both policy & power combining in favor of promoting an undertaking by which its property is to be incidentally benefited. If the value and price of land depend, as well upon the facility with which its products find a market, as upon its capacity to produce, there can be no doubt that the public lands will be increased in value, by improvements in the navigation of those streams which water them. The saline alluded to, will have its market enlarged by the opening of the proposed canal; and those above the rapids, as well as those below, may in time count upon it as one of the sources from whence salt may be obtained.
But as some contrariety of opinion has existed in relation to the preferable side of the Ohio for the canal; as the information upon which your committee has on this subject acted, is rather of an ex parte character; and as any aid this government may think proper to give, ought only to be afforded after the most impartial & thorough investigation of the subject, they beg leave to recommend the following resolution.
Resolved, That the President be authorised to appoint three commissioners, for the purpose of examining the rapids of the Ohio, to ascertain whether a canal to avoid them be practicable and which side of the river presents the greatest advantages for its accomplishment; and also whether the bed of the river is capable of being so cleared out as to admit of ascending navigation & the relative importance of a sluice and canal.
STATE PAPERS, CONCERNING THE LAST NEGOTIATION BETWEEN FRANCE AND ENGLAND.
NO. I.
Downing street, Feb. 20th, 1806.
MR. MINISTER, I think it my duty, as an honest man, to inform you as soon as possible, of a strange circumstance, come to my knowledge. The shortest manner will be to relate to you the fact as it happened.
Some days since a certain person wrote to inform me that he had just landed at Gravesend without a passport, and intreated me to send him one, because he had just come from Paris, and had things to inform me of, which would give me great pleasure.
I conversed with him alone in my closet, where, after a little unimportant talk, this scoundrel had the audacity to tell me, that, in order to tranquillize every crown, the Chief of the French must be put to death, and that for this purpose, a house had been taken at Psey, where this detestable scheme might undoubtedly and without risk be carried into execution. I did not clearly comprehend whether it was to be by means of common muskets, or by fire arms of a new construction. I am not ashamed to confess to you, Mr. Minister, who know me, that my confusion was extreme to find myself conversing with a declared assassin. In consequence of this confusion, I ordered him to quit me immediately, giving at the same time instructions to the officer of police who had charge of him, to send him out of the kingdom as soon as possible. After having reflected more maturely on what I have just declared to you, I bethought myself of the error I had committed in allowing him to depart before you were informed of it, and I ordered him to be put in confinement.
Apparently all this is nothing, and this miserable fellow has no other end in view than to brag, by promising things which, according to his manner of thinking, would give me great pleasure.
At all events, I have thought it necessary to inform you of what has passed, before I send him off. Our laws do not permit us to detain him a long time, but he shall not depart until you have had the necessary time to secure yourself against his attempts, on the supposition that he has still evil designs; and when he sets off, I shall take care that he lands only in a port the most distant from France. He called himself here Guillet de la Crevilliere, but I think it is a false name. He had not a rap of paper to show me, and on his first appearance, I did him the honor to believe him a spy.
I have the honor to be with the most perfect attachment, Mr. Minister, Your very obedient servant, (Signed) C. J. FOX.
NO. II.
10th March, 1806.
SIR, I have had your excellency's letter before His Majesty. His first words were, after reading it: "I there recognize the principles of honor and virtue which have always actuated Mr. Fox." He added: "Thank him from me, and tell him that whether the policy of his Sovereign makes us remain

With regard to war, or whether a dispute so useless for humanity is to be concluded whenever the two nations desire it, I rejoice at the new character which, by this step, the war has already taken, and which is the presage what may be expected from a cabinet whose principles I take a pleasure in appreciating after those of Mr. Fox, one of those men the best calculated to feel in every respect what is noble and truly great."
I shall not take the liberty, Sir, to add any thing to the expression of His Imperial and Royal Majesty. I only entreat you to accept the assurance of my highest consideration. (Signed) C. M. TALLEYRAND, Prince of Benevento.
No. III. Downing Street, 20th March, 1806.
Sir, The information your excellency has transmitted me of the pacific dispositions of your government, has induced me to be in a more particular manner the organ of the king to that part of your excellency's letter. His majesty has more than once declared to his Parliament, his sincere desire to embrace the first opportunity to re-establish peace on such solid basis, as may be reconciled with the interests and permanent safety of his people. His dispositions are always pacific, but it is a sure and durable peace that his majesty desires, and not an uncertain and hence a restless truce, both for the contracting parties and for the rest of Europe. With regard to the stipulations of the treaty of Amiens which might be proposed as the basis of the negotiations, it has been remarked that the phrase may be interpreted in three or four different manners, and that consequently further explanations would be necessary, which would not fail to cause a great delay, even were there no other objections. The true basis of such a negotiation between two great powers who equally disdain all ideas of chicane, ought to be reciprocal acknowledgement on both sides of the following principle, viz. that it ought to be the object of the two parties that the peace should be honorable for themselves and their respective allies, and at the same time be of a nature to secure, as much as lies in their power, the future repose of Europe.
England cannot neglect the interests of any of her allies, and she finds herself united to Russia by such close ties that she cannot treat, much less conclude, otherwise than in concert with the emperor Alexander; but previous to the intervention of a Russian plenipotentiary, some of the principal points may still be discussed and even provisionally agreed on. It would appear that Russia, on account of her distant position, has less immediate interests than the other powers to discuss with France; but this court, in every point of view so respectable, takes, like England, a very warm interest in what concerns the lot more or less independent, of the different princes and states of Europe.
You see, Sir, how much we are disposed here to remove all the difficulties which might delay the discussion in question. Surely it is not with the resources we possess, that we have to dread, for what concerns us, the continuation of the war. The English nation is of all Europe the one which suffers the least from its duration; but we do not the less feel for the sufferings of others. Let us do then what we can to put an end to them, and let us endeavour, if possible, to conciliate the respective interests and glory of the two countries, with the tranquility of Europe and the happiness of the human race. Signed C. J. Fox.
No. IV. First April, 1806.
Sir, The very moment I received your letter of the 26th of March, I waited on his majesty and I had myself happy to inform you that he authorises me to make you without delay the following answer.
The emperor has nothing to wish for of what England possesses. Peace with France is possible and may be perpetual, when other states will not intermeddle in her internal affairs, and when they will neither wish to constrain her in the legislation of her custom houses, and in the rights of her commerce, nor to make her flag bear any insult.
It is not you, Sir, who have shown in many public debates an exact knowledge of the general affairs of Europe and of those of France, whom it is necessary to continue to convince that France has nothing to wish for but rest, and a situation which may allow her to betake herself without any obstacle to the labors of her industry.
The emperor does not think that this article of the treaty of Amiens was the cause of the war. He is convinced that the true cause was the refusal to make a treaty of commerce necessarily hurtful to the manufactures and industry of his subjects.
Your predecessors accused us of wishing to invade every thing. In France, England is also accused. Well! we ask only for equality. We shall never ask of you an account of what you do at home, provided that in your turn you never ask of us an account of what we do in our country. This is a principle of just, reasonable and respectively advantageous reciprocity.
You express a wish that the negotiation may not end in a peace without duration. France is more interested than any other power that the peace be stable. It is not a truce that she has an interest to make; for a truce would only prepare for her new losses. You know very well that nations, similar in this respect to every man considered
individually, accustom themselves to a situation of war, in like manner as to a situation of peace. All the losses which France could meet with, she has met with, and will always meet with in the six first months of the war. At this time our commerce and industry have fallen back upon themselves, and have adapted themselves to our situation of war. Hence a truce of two or three years would at the same time be every thing most contrary to our commercial interests and to the policy of the emperor.
As to the intervention of a foreign power, the emperor might accept the mediation of a power which should have great maritime forces, for then her participation in the peace would be regulated by the same interests as we have to discuss with you; but the mediation you speak of is not of this nature. You do not wish to deceive us, and you are very sensible that there is no equality between you and us in the guarantee of a power who has three hundred thousand men on foot, and who has no fleet.
However, Sir, your communication has a character of frankness and precision which we have not yet seen in the relations of your court with us. I shall make it my duty to use the same frankness and the same clearness in my answers. We are ready to make peace with all the world. We do not wish to overawe any one; but we will not be overawed, and no one has either the power or the means to do so. It is not in the power of any one to make us change any thing in treaties which are executed. The integrity, the entire, absolute independence of the Ottoman empire, is not only the truest wish of the emperor, but the most constant aim of his policy.
Two nations enlightened and approximate to each other would be wanting to the opinion which they ought to have of their own power and wisdom, if they called foreign and distant interventions into the discussion of the grand interests which divide them. Thus, Sir, peace may be immediately treated and concluded, if your court has really a desire of attaining it.
Our interests are reconcilable by the very fact of their being distinct. You are the sovereigns of the seas, your maritime forces are equal to those of all the sovereigns of the world united. We are a great continental power; but there are several powers who have as much strength as we upon land, and your preponderance upon the seas will always put our trade at the disposal of your squadrons from the first declaration of war which you may choose to make. Do you think it reasonable to expect that the emperor should ever consent to put himself also for the affairs of the continent, at your discretion? If, masters of the sea by your own power, you also wish to be so of the land, by a combined power, peace is not possible; for then you do not wish to arrive at any results but such as you can never attain.
The emperor, used as he may be to run all the chances which present prospects of greatness and glory, wishes for peace with England. He is a man. After so many fatigues, he is also desirous of rest. The father of his subjects, he wishes as much as it may be compatible with their honor and with the guarantees of the future, to procure them the sweets of peace, and the advantages of a happy and quiet commerce.
If then, Sir, his majesty the king of England really wishes for peace with France, he will appoint a plenipotentiary to repair to Lisle. I have the honor to address to you passports for this purpose. As soon as his majesty the emperor will have been informed of the arrival of the minister from your court, he will appoint and send one without delay. The emperor is ready to make all the concessions which from the extent of your naval strength and preponderance you may be desirous of obtaining. I do not think you can refuse to adopt also the principle of making him propositions conformable to the honor of his crown and to the rights of the commerce of his states. If you are just, if you wish only for what it is possible for you to do, peace will soon be concluded.
I conclude by declaring to you that his majesty entirely accepts the principle laid down in your dispatch and presented as the basis of the negotiation, that the peace proposed ought to be honorable for both courts and for their respective allies.
I have the honor to be with the highest consideration, Sir, Your Excellency's Most humble, and most Obedient servant, (Signed) CH: MAU. TALLEYRAND, Prince of Benevento.
Orphans Court of Prince George's County, October Term, 1806.
On application of Isabella Wood and Orson Belt, junior, administrators of Elijah Wood, late of Prince George's county, in the state of Maryland, deceased, to this court, to make distribution of the assets in their hands, among the heirs and legal representatives of the said Elijah Wood, and it appearing to this court that some of the representatives of the said deceased, to wit: Lashly Wood, Eleanor Swaine and Robert Wood, reside out of the state of Maryland. It is thereupon ordered, that this court will proceed on the second Tuesday in April next, to make distribution of the assets in the hands of the said Isabella Wood and Orson Belt, junior, provided a copy of this order be inserted in the National Intelligencer once a week, until the first day of April next.
Test. TRUMAN TYLER, Register of Wills for Prince George's county. December 8th—WLA12
(By Authority.)
AN ACT Establishing circuit courts, and abridging the jurisdiction of the district courts of the districts of Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That so much of any act or acts of Congress, as vests in the district courts of the United States, in the districts of Kentucky, East and West Tennessee, and Ohio, the powers, authority, and jurisdiction of the circuit courts of the United States, shall be, and the same is hereby repealed.
SEC. 2. And be it further enacted, That for the purpose of holding therein the circuit courts, to be established by this act, the state of Kentucky shall constitute one district, the state of Tennessee one district, and the state of Ohio one district, and the said districts of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio, shall constitute and be denominated the seventh circuit. And there shall be holden, annually in each district of the said circuit, two courts, to be called circuit courts, and to consist of one justice of the supreme court of the United States, and the judge of the district where such court shall be holden. And the sessions of the said courts, in the district of Kentucky, shall be held at Frankfort, and commence on the first Monday in May and November, annually; in the district of Tennessee, at Knoxville, and Nashville, alternately, to commence on the first Monday in June, and third Monday in October, annually, beginning at Nashville; and in the district of Ohio, at Chillicothe, to commence on the first Monday in January, and September, annually. And the circuit court of Tennessee shall designate at which of the two places where the said court is hereby directed to be holden, the office of clerk thereof shall be kept.
SEC. 3. Be it further enacted, That all the authority, powers and jurisdiction, vested in the several circuit courts of the United States, or the judges thereof, or either of them, shall be, and hereby are vested in, and may be exercised by the several circuit courts of the seventh circuit, and the judges thereof: And that all actions, causes, pleas, process, and other proceedings, relative to any cause, civil or criminal, which shall be returnable to, or depending in the several district courts of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio, acting as circuit courts, on the first day of May next, shall be and hereby are declared to be respectively transferred, returnable, and continued, to the several circuit courts constituted by this act, at the times herein appointed for the session of each of the said courts, and shall be heard, tried, and determined therein, in the same manner, and with the same effect, as if no change had been made hereby in the courts of the said district. And the said circuit courts of the seventh circuit, shall be governed by the said laws and regulations as apply to the other circuit courts of the United States, and shall appoint clerks for the said courts, respectively, who shall reside, and keep the records of the said courts, at the places of holding the courts, whereto they shall respectively belong, except as herein before provided, and shall perform the same duties, and be entitled to, and receive the same emoluments and fees, respectively, which are by law established for the clerks of the other circuit courts of the United States.
SEC. 4. And be it further enacted, That the state of Tennessee shall be divided into two districts, for the purpose of holding district courts in the same, one to consist of that part thereof, which by the laws of the said state, now forms the district of Washington and Hamilton, which shall be called the district of East Tennessee; and one other to consist of all that part of the state of Tennessee, which by the laws of the said state now forms the districts of Winchester, Mero and Robertson, which shall be called the district of West Tennessee; and all the authority, powers and jurisdiction, vested in the several district courts of the United States, and the judges thereof, in those districts in which circuit courts are now held, shall be retained, and may be exercised by the several district courts of Kentucky, East and West Tennessee, and Ohio, and the several judges thereof. And the sessions of the said district courts shall after the first day of May next, be as follows: in Kentucky, at Frankfort, two sessions, to commence on the first Mondays in June and December, annually; in East Tennessee, at Knoxville, two sessions; to commence on the third Monday in April, and second Monday in October, annually; and at Nashville, two sessions, to commence on the fourth Mondays in May and November, annually; and in Ohio, at Chillicothe, three sessions, to commence on the first Mondays in February, June, and October, annually, and all actions, causes, pleas, process, and other proceedings, relative to any cause, civil or criminal, which shall have been issued, and shall be returnable to, or depending in the said several district courts of the United States acting as district courts, on the said first day of May next, shall be returned and held continued to the said several district courts, respectively, at the times herein before appointed for holding the same.
SEC. 5. Be it further enacted, That the supreme court of the United States shall hereafter consist of a chief justice, and six associate justices, any law to (the) contrary notwithstanding. And for this purpose there shall be appointed a sixth associate justice, to reside in the seventh circuit, whose duty
it shall be, until he is otherwise allotted, to attend the circuit courts of the said seventh circuit, and the supreme court of the United States, and who shall take the same oath, and be entitled to the same salary as are required of, and provided for the other associate justices of the United States.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO: CLINTON, Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate. February 24, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT To continue in force, for a further time, an act intitled, "An act to suspend the commercial intercourse between the United States and certain parts of the island of St. Domingo."
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the act entitled "An act to suspend the commercial intercourse between the United States and certain parts of the island of St. Domingo," passed on the 28th day of February, 1806, be and the same hereby is continued in force until the end of the next session of Congress, and no longer.
SEC. 2. And be it further enacted, That the prohibition and provisions of the aforesaid act shall be continued, and are hereby declared to extend to Gonaive and Port-au-Prince, and to any other dependency of the said island of St. Domingo, not in possession of, or under the acknowledged government of France. NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO: CLINTON, Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate. February 24, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT Further supplementary to the act entitled "An act, act concerning the district of Columbia."
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That so much of the act intitled, "An act additional to, and amendatory of an act entitled, an act concerning the district of Columbia," as directs that no capias ad satisfaciendum shall, thereafter issue on any judgement rendered by a single magistrate, or in any case where the judgement shall not exceed twenty dollars, shall be and the same is hereby repealed, and in all such cases a writ or writs of capias ad satisfaciendum may hereafter issue, any thing in the said recited act to the contrary notwithstanding.
SEC. 2. And be it further enacted, That such writs of capias ad satisfaciendum shall be issued, directed and made returnable in like manner, and the clerk and constable shall be entitled to the same fees therein, as the said act herein before recited directs and allows in cases of executions against the good and chattels of the debtor.
SEC. 3. And be it further enacted, That the eighth section of the aforesaid act shall be and the same is hereby also repealed. NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO: CLINTON, Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate. February 24, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT Respecting seizures made under the authority of the United States for other purposes.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That when any prosecution shall be commenced on account of the seizure of any ship or vessel, goods, wares, or merchandise, made by any collector or other officer, under any act of Congress authorizing such seizure, and judgement shall be given for the claimant or claimants, if it shall appear to the court before whom such prosecution shall be tried, that there was a reasonable cause of seizure, the said court shall cause a proper certificate or entry to be made thereof; and in such case the claimant or claimants shall not be entitled to costs, nor shall the person who made the seizure, or the prosecutor, be liable to action, suit or judgement on account of such seizure and prosecution—Provided, That the ship or vessel, goods, wares, or merchandise be, after judgement forthwith returned to such claimant or claimants, his, her, or their agent or agents.
SEC. 2. And be it further enacted, That the accounting officers of the treasury be, and they are hereby authorized and directed to allow to the collector of New-York, in the settlement of his accounts, the amount of damage and costs recovered from and paid by him,
by virtue of judgement rendered by the supreme court of the state of New-York, on account of the seizure of the ship Liberty, and of the ship Two Marys, which vessels had been seized and libelled for a presumed infraction of the provisions of the act entitled "An act concerning the re-registering and recording of ships or vessels"
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO: CLINTON, Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate. February 24, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
New-Orleans, Jan. 16.
MESRS. EDITORS, The following statement of the U. S. naval force under command of commodore John Shaw is now ready to act in the Mississippi river. You will please to insert it in your next paper and oblige yours, &c. A. SUBSCRIBER.
   Vessels Names. Guns. No. Men.     Ketch Vesuvius, 14 96   Etna, 12 82   Schr. Revenge, 12 75   Gun Boat, No. 11, 4 44   12, 45   13, 42   14, 41   Barge, No. 1, 2 30   2, 36   3, 32   4, 14   Guns, 61 Men, 587  
January 27.
We have the following information relative to col. Burr, from a gentleman of intelligence immediately from Natchez.
On the 15th or 16th inst. col. Claiborne with a detachment of militia was ordered to the mouth of Bayou Pierre, in order to intercept the passage of col. Burr and a armed force under his command. The detachment went by water, and Cowles Mead, esq. secretary and acting governor, went overland. The latter gentleman it appears wrote to col. Burr, in answer to a letter received from him, and named a place of meeting near the Bayou Pierre. Col. Burr punctually attended, and after a short interview, it was agreed that he should accompany Mr. Mead to the town of Washington, which he did, and since that has taken lodgings at Mr. Callender's, in Natchez, where he was when our informant left Natchez—who adds that the rumor was, that col. Burr had pledged himself not to leave the Mississippi territory, until every thing was adjusted and cleared up, to the entire satisfaction of the good citizens, &c. &c.
January 29.
The following has been handed us by a friend as part of the presentment made by the grand jury, at the late opening of the superior court of this territory.
At a session of the superior court of the territory of Orleans, held at the city hall of the city of New-Orleans on Saturday the 24th of January in the year of our Lord 1807, came the Grand Jury in and for the said territory and made the following Presentment.
"In addition to the bills of indictment now preferred by the grand jury for this city and county of Orleans, they feel themselves imperiously called upon to present as a most dangerous and alarming evil, the late unprecedented exercise of military power in this city. They have seen with no less astonishment than grief, the laws and the civil authority prostrated before a military force. They have seen the citizens of the United States and of this territory, seized upon and imprisoned by that force, and deprived of the benefit of that great bulwark of civil liberty—the writ of Habeas Corpus. Nav: more—they have seen the general commanding the American army here, come before this honorable court, and openly avow such illegal acts, and declare that he would persevere in them, and to this grand jury the same general has acknowledged the commission of such acts, and sought to justify them by alleging that they were previously advised or approved by the governor and two of the judges of this territory: Whoever his advisers were, we hold such advice, under existing circumstances, as a total dereliction of all regard to the constitution and laws of the U. States, and as striking at the very foundation of civil liberty. We enter not into the question, how far it is allowable to do evil, that good may result from it; for we are no casuists. Many specious reasons are urged in justification of those arrests. We leave to those who urge them, to show their validity, and to this honorable court to form a judgment thereon."
"We present as great grievances the immense number of tipling houses, both in the city and suburbs, as well as the situation of the streets, which in many places of both, are quite impassable."
"We present as a most serious grievance, the great number of gaming houses, both in the city and suburbs, of which it appears to this grand jury that the police officers take less notice, than their duty requires."
"New-Orleans, January 24, 1807. "Indorsed, a true presentment." "EVAN JONES, Foreman." I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true copy of the original presentment on file in the office of the Clerk of the superior court, January 27th, 1807. J. W. SMITH, Clk.

Names of the Jurors.
Sam Jones, Foreman—George Pollack, Wm. Davis, Wm. Mumford, J. P. Jones, Wm. Kenner, J. M. Neil, S. B. Davis, Waters, Clark, Fx. Armand, Edm. Forrest, Wm. Nott, D. Urgelhart, P. F. Dubourg, N. Girod, J. Touro, F. Duplessis.
January 29.
An express arrived here last evening with dispatches for government. Nothing has transpired as to the contents of them. The following information is copied from a Natchez paper received by the express:—
Natchez, January 10th inst.
On Saturday evening the 10th inst. an express arrived from Washington city, with dispatches for the executive of this territory, and after a short stay, proceeded to Port Adams, with dispatches for the governor of Orleans.
On Monday following, a guard of sixty men was placed on the bank of the Mississippi, with orders to stop and examine every boat that should attempt to pass.
On the same day, the secretary procured the session of the legislature by the following
A B D R E S S:
Washington, Jan. 22, 1807.
Gentlemen of the Legislative Council and of the House of Representatives.
In consequence of these communications received from the general government, I am now convinced that the cloud which has so long been anticipated, and which has a settled aspect of offence; charged with belligerent countenance, it slowly presses upon us; and preages an explosion fatal to domestic safety and insulting to national dignity.
These communications to us convert the pen of legislation into the weapon of war, and suspend the exercise of debate for the clamour of military array. You who spend the day in the military character, must relinquish for a moment, the functions of the first, while you assume the prerogatives of the latter. The station which you leave, though honorable and important, is exchanged for one, where your patriotism may be as effectually displayed, and where you may acquire new claims to the confidence of your country. How long these clouds may hang over our heads is entirely uncertain, but it is deemed unsafe to be sitting here in the pacific operations of legislation, while our country's honor calls us to the field. To you, gentlemen, who wear the garb of civic rule, we shall expect from you those aids which the good of the patriotic may afford by example; your respective standings in your country, and among your fellow citizens, is such as will give weight and influence to your opinions and your examples. In returning you to your homes, you are not suspended in your duties, or you are transferred to a theatre where your services may be more important and beneficial to our common country.
In consequence of the foregoing causes, I do prorogue the Legislative Council and House of Representatives, for the Mississippi Territory, from this day to Monday the 19th inst. and you are hereby prorogued to the said 19th day of this instant.
During this interval, arrangements will be made for the proper organization of active corps for the defence of the territory, and the adoption of such measures as will best sustain the honor of our country, and show our affection and confidence to the general government. I now, gentlemen, bid adieu to my civil character—to morrow I assume the military prerogatives of my office, and shall leave you at this time with the fullest assurance of your patriotism, and in my revolutions thro'out the territory I shall expect to find you at your respective posts performing the duties which you may be required to execute in the general defence of our country.
Accept, gentlemen, my warmest confidence in your public integrity and my particular solicitude for your happiness in your public relations.
COWLES MEAD.
On Tuesday morning news reached this place that Col. Burr was encamped at the mouth of Bayou Pierre, with a force it was said by some, of 40 men, and by others of 300; the former was found to be the most correct. The commander in chief immediately issued orders for embodying a detachment of the militia, and in 24 hours 275 men were collected on the bank of the river, ready to receive marching orders. A little before sun-set, on Wednesday, the detachment embarked, under the command of Col. Ferdinand L. Claiborne, and ascended by water to the mouth of Cole's creek, where he was joined by a considerable body of the Jefferson county militia.
The detachment was here met by Major Shields and capt. Poindexter, aides-de-camp to the governor, who at the moment the detachment embarked, received orders to proceed in haste to Col. Burr's encampment and to announce to him the movement of our troops, and to invite his surrender. An armistice was signed by the parties, and Col. Burr agreed to meet the governor the next day at Mr. Calvit's near Col. Claiborne's encampment, and to be attended by Col. Fitzpatrick, of Jefferson county. He arrived at the mouth of the creek about two o'clock, passed an hour in camp, and accompanied by several officers of the Jefferson troop of horse, was conducted to the appointed place. He surrendered him-
self a prisoner at discretion, and a detachment of troops ascended to the mouth of Bayou Pierre, to take possession of his arms and other military stores.
On Sunday the commander in chief arrived at Col. C.'s encampment, and addressed the detachment in handsome terms—after which the troops were immediately embarked on board their boats and returned to this place in the evening, all in good health.
COMMUNICATION.
The executive of the Mississippi Territory, in order to ascertain the views of Col. Burr, on the 15th inst. deputed Messrs. Shields and Poindexter, to visit the quarters of that gentleman, near the mouth of Bayou Pierre, and to hold a conversation with him on the subject. On the 16th an amicable agreement was entered into between the parties in the following words, to wit:
"The hon. Cowles Mead, acting governor of the Mississippi Territory, with a view to restore public tranquility, proposes to Aaron Burr as follows:— That an interview shall take place between them at the house of Thomas Calvit, on Cole's creek, at two o'clock to-morrow.
"The said Cowles Mead pledges himself to protect the said A. Burr during his stay in the territory, and that he shall be returned to his present position in a suitable manner as soon after the interview as he may please—that in the mean time, there shall be no restraint on his person, no violence or molestation to his boats or people, and that the military of the district shall not until the return of the said A. Burr, approach nearer to his present quarters than the mouth of Cole's Creek.
"A. Burr on his part engages that in the mean time no violence or injury shall be offered by any of his people to the inhabitants of the M. T. that they shall keep the peace and not infringe any law of the U. S. or of either of its territories.
"The parties above named mutually pledge their honor for the performance of this agreement.
January 16, 1807.
COWLES MEAD, By
W. B. SHIELDS, } Aids de
G. POINDEXTER, } Camp.
A. BURR.
Signed in presence of Thomas Fitzpatrick. In conformity with the above agreement the proposed interview took place, which resulted in a voluntary submission on the part of col. Burr, to the civil authority of the territory, and also a surrender of whatever military apparatus might be found on board the boats under his direction; a committee was immediately appointed to make the necessary examination, and report forthwith to the governor, the number and description of such military stores as they might discover on board said boats.
It is surely a source of felicity to every philanthropic mind that the laws and constitution of the United States are maintained inviolate without the catastrophe of a civil contest.
CAPTURE OF CURRACOA.
Kingston, Jamaica, Jan. 24.
On Saturday night last arrived at Port Royal, his majesty's frigate Anson, of 40 guns, captain Lydiard, from Curracoa, with 300 prisoners, and the colors captured at that island, which was taken in the most extraordinary and gallant manner, by a squadron of frigates, consisting of the
Arethusa 34 guns Capt. Brisbane, Latona 38 — — Wood, Anson 40 — — Lydiard, Fisgard 32 — — Bottom.
For skill in planning, singular boldness in executing, this event will rank amongst the first of heroic actions—it is indeed perfectly in unison with every thing glorious in the past, and an example of every thing great to the future.
As our squadron did not possess the means of laying regular siege to the place, capt. Brisbane came to the determination of sailing into the port, and storming forts hitherto considered impregnable, or perishing in the attempt, for retreat was impossible. The time chosen was day dawn on the morning of the 1st of January, when all the boats were hoisted out, and the squadron stood in with a strong breeze, the Arethusa leading. The enemy were panic struck at such unexpected temerity, all was confusion—here soldiers without officers—there officers without soldiers—alarm drums beating in all directions; a British squadron in their very harbor, and within pistol shot of their batteries before sun rise. Troops collected at Otr Brandy were prevented from crossing the water, our ships interposing; not more than three broadsides were fired from our frigates when the ships companies and officers of the Arethusa and Anson, with the marines of the Latona, headed by captain Brisbane & Lydiard, were landed. Fort Amsterdam stormed, all the out works had British colors flying before eight o'clock, fort Republic on the hill and Carraccas fort excepted. The Fisgard had orders to act against Otr Brandy, two batteries distinct from the main land, she took possession of, to one of the men absolutely swam, the enemy being previously dislodged. The guns of Fort Amsterdam were fired but once, on our people storming the place they did not act in a body, but retreated in confusion, firing round corners and from houses. The militia amounting to 3000, had not time to collect, nor could they cross the water in boats. The Dutch frigate Kenau Hasslar, was boarded by captain Brisbane, the Latona warped along side and took possession, when captain Brisbane pro-
ceeded for the shore. The Surinam corvette was boarded from the larboard bow of the Anson, while her starboard guns were firing at the batteries. The Flying Fish, a large national schooner, was boarded by the boats of the Arethusa; the officers and crew of those vessels fought most gallantly; commander Cornelius Vertz was killed; the captain of the Surinam mortally wounded, and their first lieutenant dangerously, besides several others. The moment the town, fort Amsterdam, &c. were completely in captain Brisbane's possession, a lieutenant of marines was sent in a flag of truce, requiring fort Republic to surrender. The officer continued firing, but would not surrender without an order from Lieutenant General J. P. Changalon, the Governor, who was at this time a prisoner, with all his Staff in Fort Amsterdam. We understand that captain Brisbane desired the Council to be collected, and gave them five minutes to capitulate for the whole island, but as they increased for a longer period, it was extended to half an hour, in the mean time the most active preparations were made for storming this almost inaccessible fort. The ship's company of the Fisgard commanded by captain Bottom, were in boats ready to proceed by water. The marines of the squadron, with about 300 sailors of the Arethusa and Anson, were prepared to advance by land, the remainder of the sailors on shore, including an officer and sixty men from the Latona, manned such guns as could bear on the object of attack, every thing was ready on a signal being made, when a capitulation was signed and the troops in fort Republic alone marched out with the honors of war, piling their arms and becoming prisoners. All private property is respected, and the troops to be sent to Europe and exchanged. Captain Bottom took possession of fort Republic. Captains Brisbane and Lydiard landed nearly together, the former was the first man who scaled the wall, the latter the second, closely followed and supported by their respective officers and ships companies. Captain Wood remained afloat in the command of the squadron—about 200 of the enemy were killed; our loss is very trifling; had our ships been half an hour later in the attack the slaughter must have been dreadful, nothing could be better timed. The ci-devant governor comes a passenger on his way to Europe. List of killed & wounded on board his Majesty's vessels. Arethusa —2 killed & 5 wounded. Latona —1 killed & 2 wounded. Anson —none killed, 7 wounded. Fisgard —none killed none wounded. Total —3 killed, 14 wounded. We understand that there were upwards of sixty Spanish, French & Dutch vessels, exclusive of six or seven Americans, lying at Curracoa when that island fell into our possession, some of them are stated to be of great value. Six Commissioners have been appointed to investigate prize concerns at Curracoa. Capt. James Athof Wood, of the Latona frigate, is the President.
SALE AT AUCTION.
On Wednesday the 12 day of April will be sold at public auction at the house of Dr. JOHN ELLULUS, living near the Marine Barracks, all his
Household & Kitchen Furniture, consisting of Mahogany and other beds, beds, chairs, mahogany dining, tea and card tables, sofas, dressing tables, wash stands, Brussels and Scotch carpeting the greater part of which is new, large piece and dressing glasses, lamps, plated and other candlesticks, lamps, handsome grates, fenders and shovels and tongs, curtains quite new and handsomely made, gilt window cornices, beds, matresses and bed furniture, good paintings and prints in frames, dining and tea china, cut and plain glass, silver and plated ware, consisting of tea furniture, ladies, spoons and butlers—also, one coach and a travelling carriage nearly new, with harness; a pair of good found horses, and one double barrel fowling piece.
The sale to commence at 10 o'clock in the forenoon, if fair, if not, the next fair day, and continue from day to day until all are sold.
Terms made known at time and place of sale.
The goods may be viewed two days previous to the sale.
SAMUEL SPEAKE, Auctioneer.
March 2—tcd
LANDS FOR SALE.
By virtue of a decree of the High Court of Chancery, will be sold, at public auction, at Piscataway, in Prince George's county, at 12 o'clock, on Monday the 23d day of March next, if fair, if not the first fair day thereafter, all the REAL ESTATE of Randolph B. Latimer, deceased, lying and being in Charles county, consisting of several tracts and parts of tracts of land, to wit: Latimer's Addition, Latimer's Second Addition, Latimer's Forest, Widow's Hardship, Baygot's Boot, Smallwood's Good Bargain, Part of Daniel's Conclusion, part of Stewart's Overfigh, part of Roby's Help, and a tract of land which the said Latimer purchased of a certain Kenay Hagan. These lands will be laid off into convenient lots to suit the convenience of purchasers; a plot, and an accurate description, will be shown on the day of sale. The terms of sale are, that so much of the said lands as will be necessary to raise the sum of eighteen hundred dollars will be sold for cash, to be paid on the day of the ratification of the sale, which will be about six weeks from the day of sale. The residue will be sold on a credit of one and two years, with interest from the day of sale. Bond with approved security, will be required.
NICHOLAS BREWER, Trustee.
March 2—tcd
WASHINGTON CITY,
MONDAY, MARCH 2.
The House of Representatives continued in uninterrupted session on FRIDAY from ten o'clock A. M. to eight o'clock in the evening, and on SATURDAY sat from ten A. M. to five P. M. when an adjournment took place till seven o'clock. Indisposition prevented us from attending the evening session of the last day; which likewise prevents our offering at present any more than a bare notice of the most important proceedings, reserving their detail for a future paper.
On FRIDAY—Mr. J. Randolph made an animated speech in order to show that the 6th section of the act prohibiting the importation of slaves into the U. S. involved the exercise of a power not possessed by Congress, which was subversive of the rights of property of the holders of slaves, and which might eventuate in their general emancipation; and concluded by asking leave to present a bill to explain and amend that act.
After some remarks from Messrs. Goldsborough, Quincy, Lyon, Fisk, and Smilie, Mr. J. Randolph varied his motion, so as to appoint a committee to bring in a bill—This motion was agreed to—Ayes 61.
A short time after Mr. Randolph presented from the committee the following explanatory act.
"Whereas doubts have arisen, or may arise, touching the construction of the eighth section of the act, of which this act is explanatory, and whereas Congress disavows and disavows all constitutional right, title, or authority whatever, by any legislative act, in any wise to abridge, modify, or affect the right of property of masters of slaves, not imported into the United States, contrary to law, in and to such slaves: Therefore,
"Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That nothing contained in the eighth or any other section of the aforesaid act, shall be construed to abridge, modify, or affect, in any manner whatever, the full, complete, and absolute right of property of the owner or master of any slave, such slave not being imported contrary to law, in and to such slave; and such owner, or master, as aforesaid, shall not be subjected to any disability, or liable to any fine, penalty, or forfeiture, although such master, or owner, or his or her agent may have transported any such slave, not being imported contrary to law, with intent to sell the same, from one port or place within the U. States, to any other port or place, in a vessel of less burthen than forty tons."
The act, having been read twice, Mr. J. Randolph moved that it be engrossed for a third reading.
Mr. Quincy moved its reference to a committee of the whole.
Mr. J. Randolph warmly opposed this motion. He set forth the deep stake the southern states had in immediately arresting the invasion of their rights made by the 8th section, and the consequent necessity of passing the explanatory law this session, which would not be done, unless it passed the House without delay, as it was in the power of a single member of the Senate to prevent the passage of a bill unless read on three several days. He added that he trusted, if this bill did not pass, that the Virginia delegation would wait on the President, to remonstrate against his giving his sanction to the act which had passed.
Messrs. Fisk, Quincy, Thomas & Rhea of Ten. advocated the reference of the bill to a Committee of the Whole, and its being printed; previously to consideration. They expressed their willingness to agree to any proposition, that should not go to hazard the great objects of the bill passed by the two Houses; but their indisposition to act precipitately on a subject of so much importance.
The question was taken on referring the bill to a Committee of the Whole; and carried—Ayes 58—Noes 40.
Mr. J. Randolph moved that it be made the order for this day.
A motion was also made to make it the order for to-morrow.
On this last motion the Yeas and Nays were taken, and were Yeas 60—Nays 49—When the bill was ordered to be printed.
The House agreed to consider the report of the Committee of the Whole on the appropriation bill.
Mr. Alston moved that the House should again resolve itself into a Committee of the Whole on this bill; and said, his purpose was, in case they should, to move a new section repealing the duty of 8 cents on salt from the 1st of July, and that of 12 cents from the 1st of January; and continuing the Mediterranean fund until the 1st of January next.
After a few remarks from several gentlemen, this motion was disagreed to—Ayes 39—Noes 53—principally on the ground of the impropriety of introducing such provisions in the appropriation bill.
The report of the Committee of the Whole to the appropriation bill was then considered, and the bill ordered to be engrossed for a third reading.
A message was received from the Senate stating that they had postponed until the next session the bill relative to the redemption of the public debt, providing for the reimbursement of the 3 per cents in case of the refusal of the holders to come into the new loan.
Mr. Alston moved for leave to bring in a bill for the repeal of the duties on salt, &c.
This motion was declared by the
Speaker, and the House to be out of order, the standing rules of the House requiring a day's notice of such motion.
Mr. Jackson then moved the appointment of a committee to enquire into the expediency of repealing the duties on salt—and continuing the United time the Mediterranean fund.
A division of the question was called for.
On agreeing to the first part of the motion, a long and interesting debate ensued—it was advocated by Messrs. Jackson, Alston, Smilie, Badwell, Sloan, Varnum, Fisk, Eppes and Burwell—and opposed by Messrs. Quincy, J. Randolph, R. Nelson, Elmer, Ely, Lloyd and Lyon;—when the question was taken by Yeas and Nays, and the first member of the motion carried—Yeas 60—Nays 40.
Mr. J. Randolph spoke again, agreeing to the second member of the motion which was carried—Yeas 46—Nays 43.
When the whole motion was agreed to—Yeas 44—Nays 39.
In this debate all the speakers declared themselves in favor of repealing the duties on salt; the diversity of sentiment and vote arose from the mode in which it was attempted to effect this object. The opponents of the motion contended that it became the Senate, and not the House to take the proposed step, which they said was not likely to answer the end contemplated.
The friends of the motion, on the other hand, urged the policy of pursuing every means in their power to effect so important an object; and declared their confidence, that, on a proper understanding between the two Houses, it would be accomplished.
As soon as the last vote had been taken, a motion was made that the committee should consist of three members.
On putting this question it was found that there was not a quorum of members present.
A call of the House was then ordered, for the purpose of noting the absentees.
The call having been made, and a quorum not appearing to be present, an adjournment took place about 8 o'clock.
On SATURDAY, the House passed the general appropriation bill, and several other bills of minor consideration, and transacted a good deal of other business.
A committee was appointed on the motion of Mr. Jackson relative to a repeal of the duties on salt, &c. from which committee Mr. Fisk presented a bill; corresponding in its objects with the intimation of Mr. Alston on moving for a recomittal of the appropriation bill, which was referred to a committee of the whole House that day.
THE IMPROVED STRAW CUTTER.
May be seen in operation at Wm. Morgan's in Georgetown—the feel of this machine is formed almost so as to cause the knife to cut off the straw at an angle of 23 1/2 deg. which makes it cut much easier than at right angles or square across. This valuable straw cutter feeds itself with the straw to any given length; both hands may be applied at once to the handle.
They are manufactured at the Subscriber's house between the Six Buildings and the Potomac river, city of Washington.
The improved TOBACCO, CIDER, or FLOWER PRESS, and STRAW CUTTER may be seen with Oliver Evans at Man's Works in Philadelphia.
EVAN EVANS.
March 2—epgw
I do hereby certify, that I have examined Mr. Evan Evans' Packing Machine or Press, and his Straw Cutter, and am of the opinion, that they are superior to any machines of the kind we now have in use.
ANDREW ELLICOTT,
Lancaster Pennsylvania, June 2, 1806.
LANDS FOR SALE.
By virtue of the last will and testament of JOSIAS HARRISON, late of Montgomery county, deceased, will be sold at public sale on the premises, on Wednesday the 18th of March next, the following tracts of LAND, viz. about
One Hundred & Fifty Acres of Land, lying and being in the aforesaid county, two miles eastward of Clarksville, fifteen from Fredericksburg, and twenty-five from the city of Washington. This land is level and well watered—a large proportion thereof, with little expanse, will make good meadow; a great sufficiency of wood. The improvements are as follows: a large frame Dwelling House and Kitchen, with a stack of chimneys between them; an excellent Orchard of Fruit trees of various kinds. Adjoining this tract there are about Ten or Twelve acres of Land, which will be sold as above. It is divided from, and must be sold separate from the other. There are also 123 3/8 acres of Land still adjoining the former, which will be sold at the same time and place. This land is also well watered; the greatest part thereof in wood and common tenants' improvements. One third of the purchase money must be paid in hand, and twelve months credit will be given for the balance, by giving bond clear of interest if punctually paid. The offer will be given immediately. Any person wishing to view the premises previous to the day of sale may see them by applying to Mr. James Hawkins, or Mr. John Purdam, both of Clarksville, or to the Auctioneer. The sale to commence at 12 o'clock; and due attention given by
JAMES DAY, Esq.,
March 2—jt

Notice is hereby given, that separate proposals will be received at the office of the Quartermaster...
Second, at the new military post opposite the mouth of the Hiwassee...
Third, at the garrison near Vincennes on the river Wabash...
Fourth, at New Orleans, Plaquemine, Point Coupee, Opelousas...
Separate proposals will also be received as aforesaid for the supply of all rations...
Sixth, at the Oskaloosa Old Fields, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Seventh, at Charleston, Rocky Mount, on the head waters of the Santee...
Eighth, at Norfolk, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Ninth, at Fort M'Henry, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Tenth, at Fort Mifflin, Carlisle, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Eleventh, at Pittsburgh, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Twelfth, at Fort Jay, Wellesley, Albany, Shenceldy, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Thirteenth, at Fort Trumbull, Fort Wolcott, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Fourteenth, at Fort Independence (Boston harbor) and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Fifteenth, at Portsmouth, Portland, and at any place or places where troops are or may be stationed...
Sixteenth, Proposals will also be received as aforesaid, for the supply of all rations...
It is understood that the contractor is to be at the expense and risk of lifting the supplies...
Disposition of two or more portions of creditable character...
The privilege is understood to be referred to the United States of requiring that none of the supplies...
February 25. 22w6w
PRACTICING BALL.
MR. GENERES has the honor to inform the Ladies and Gentlemen of Washington City...
Gentlemen will pay their entrance at the box.
Feb. 25. - 3t.
AMERICAN ANNALS,
Just Published and for sale By DANIEL RAPINE.
The second volume of Holmes' American Annals, or a Chronological History of America...
A few copies of the above work may be had complete in 2 volumes at 450 cents the set.
Asa's Maritime Law of Europe, 2 vols. Cranch's Reports of cases argued and adjudged...
February 25. - 3t.
By virtue of an order of the Orphan's court of Prince George's county the subscriber will expose to public sale...
JOHN BRASHEARS, Administrator. February 18. - 6t.
CHARLES A. BURNETT,
HAS received from London and Liverpool a handsome assortment of articles in his line...
WATCHES & JEWELRY,
Silver, Tortoiseshell, and Steel Speculations, Table knives and forks with ivory handles...
Ladies and Gentlemen's Pocket BOOKS.
He also continues to manufacture gold and silver ware, at the most reduced prices.
George Town, Dec. 2d. - tf.
PORTRAIT PAINTING
C. BOYLE respectfully informs the public that he paints Likenesses in Oil Colors...
N. B. A few specimens to be seen January 5. - tf.
ELIAS B. CALDWELL,
ATTORNEY AT LAW, HAS removed his Office, to the house lately occupied by Mr. Law...
Washington, July 26. - tf.
On a liberal credit.
THE subscriber will dispose of at private sale, his estate called Chichester, lying on the eastern branch...
ANTHONY ADDISON. Barnaby, 12th June 1805. - tf.
New English Piano Fortes,
Of Superior quality. THE Subscriber has imported from London, via New-York, four English Piano Fortes...
P. MAURO. Feb. 6. - tf.
AMERICAN COFFEE-HOUSE,
WASHINGTON CITY. THE Subscribers have opened for the entertainment of travellers, members of Congress...
FROST and QUINN. Nov. 4. - tf.
CHARLES H. VARDEN,
Merchant, Taylor, New Jersey Avenue, near the Capitol.
RESPECTFULLY informs the gentlemen of the district of Columbia, he has imported by ship ELIZ ANN...
A choice assortment
Of Extra Superfine cloths, Bennetts, Velvets, and Cordes, Cashmere, single and double milled Satin cloths...
N. B. Ladies habits, regimentals and navy uniforms made in the first style of fashion.
Richard Harvells celebrated patent parallel suspender, can be had on the same terms as at his manufactory.
November 12. - tf.
FOR SALE,
A healthy negro woman under 30 years of age, with two healthy children. For particulars apply to the printer.
1st Nov. 1805. - cpi.
PUBLIC SALE.
By order of the Orphan's court of Prince George's county, will be exposed at Public Sale, to the highest bidder...
All the Personal estate
of the late deceased (except the crop of Tobacco) consisting of a number of valuable servants...
THOMAS BOWIE, Administrator of Richard Crumplin. February 18. - 9t.
CHEAP GOODS.
T. W. PAIRO, Seven Buildings, has received from Philadelphia and Baltimore, a Large Assortment of DRY GOODS...
Also London PIANO FORTES, Liquors and Groceries of a superior quality. November 7. - Mar. 3.
LOST or MISLAID,
THREE Navy SIX per Cent certificates of the following description. No 41 for 1000 dollars. 96 for 400 do. 109 for 100 do.
1500 Dollars in all, dated 4th August 1800 in favor of Wm. Paterson, and this public notice is given...
WILLIAM PATTERSON. Washington February 11. - 6w.
WHARF MATERIALS
& WORKMANSHIP WANTED. THE following materials will be wanted for building a Wharf at the south end of 17th street west...
From 600 to 700 perches of Blue Stone. 2000 feet running of White Oak timber, squared on three sides, 12 inches in the bed...
3000 yards of filling in with earth. James Hoban, Timothy Caldwell, J. P. Van Ness, Commissioners. February 20. -
N. B. Proposals will be received by either of the above commissioners until the 17th March next...
January 24. - wtf.
Valuable Property For Sale.
THE Subscriber offers for sale a number of valuable heights convenient to the city of Washington...
Lot No. 1. contains 60 acres, No. 2. contains 42 acres, No. 3. contains 102 acres, No. 4. contains 19 acres...
These lots will be sold together or apart as may suit purchasers. Terms may be known by applying to James White or Rev. John Brechtel...
January 24. - wtf.
FOR SALE,
ON Monday the 2d of March at 12 o'clock at the late residence of Mrs. Parsons, deceased...
Two COWS and a Yearling, a Mare, two Beds with several other articles, consisting of Household Furniture. Terms of the cash. ISRAEL LITTLE, Auct, February 27. - 2t.
Tickets in St. Paul's Parish
LOTTERY - BALTIMORE,
NOW DRAWING, May be had of any of the Managers, for whom names and the scheme of the Lottery, see the National Intelligencer, No. 985. February 21. -
SHOE STORE.
Received last Friday night an additional supply of Shoes, amongst which are, MURRAY'S superior fancy, embroidered and plain kid, with best Morocco slippers...
English kid with and without heels. Misses handsome round toed, pink, purple and blue slippers, with first quality Morocco, do. various colors.
A large number of Ladies Morocco with and without heels, and womens and misses calfskin slippers just from the last.
Cork soled slippers and to lace, high and low heels. Gentlemen's Philadelphia pumps, shoes and Morocco slippers.
Youths fashionable lined and bound shoes, Children's red Morocco and leather to lace, Men's lined and bound and coarse, with boys and childrens unbound shoes; besides these, have on hand, and engaged a great variety of others expected in about three weeks.
ALSO, a large parcel of TRUNKS. The above are for sale opposite Mr. Concoquans, Bridge street, George Town, where persons may be accommodated with qualities to suit their own prices. J. WILSON. February 4. - 4t.
FRESH GARDEN SEEDS, &c
THOPHILUS HOLT respectfully informs his friends and the public that he has an extensive assortment of Fresh Garden and Flower seeds, Grass seeds, Garden tools &c. for sale at his Nursery Garden Eastern Branch. Washington city, Jan. 2. - w3w
ROSS & GETTY,
At their Store, corner of Washington and Bridge streets, next door to the Union Tavern, Georgetown, Have received per the Schooner Rebecca, from New York, 500 bushels potatoes, 10 barrels prime mackerel, 5 do. white onions, 20 boxes permanent candles, 200 weight currents, 10 boxes muscatel raisins, 1200 pounds fine yellow cheese. ON HAND, Good old Madeira, Sicily, Sherry, Malaga, Port and Lisbon Wines - Cognac Brandy, Jamaica Rum, New England, do. Holland and country Gin, Irish and Rye Whiskey, Anniseed, Orange, Cinnamon and Perleed Love Cordials on draft and in bottles; prime St. Croix, Leaf and Lump Sugar, Gunpowder Tea in canisters, do. do. in chests, Imperial Hyson, Young Hyson, Hyson Skin, and Souchong Teas of the Latest importations.
A few sets of handsome French China Five barrels excellent Buck-wheat Meal Bar Iron and Steel Mould and dipped Candles Spanish and country Segars With a great variety of other articles in the GROCERY LINE - ALL of which they will dispose of on the lowest terms. Have received, 140 boxes of mould candles, 60 do. dipped do. 50 do. brown soap, 20 do. white do. 5 bags raisins, 20 boxes Muscatel, do. 700 lbs. prime Flemmington cheese, far superior in quality to any in this market, 5 tiers of winter strained spermaceti oil, 2000 lbs. prime green coffee, 1000 lbs. Bourbon do. 1200 lbs. of Pennington's loaf sugar, 20 firkins butter, 5 chests fresh hyson tea, 6 do. young hyson do. 4 do. imperial do. 12 hds. muscovada sugar Together with a large quantity of excellent IRON, all of which they will sell on the lowest terms, by wholesale or retail. Georgetown, February 13. -
WANTED to purchase a likely NEGRO BOY,
to wait on a single Gentleman. Enquire of MR. DUNN at the Capitol. January 28. - tf.
To TRAVELLERS.
FOR SALE, A LIGHT TRAVELLING CARRIAGE and Pair of good HORSES - Enquire of the Editor. February 27. - 3t.
By virtue of a deed of trust
from the Rev. George Ralph to Samuel Tyler deceased, and Mary Pottinger, will be sold at Public Sale, for cash on Monday the 26th day of March next at Mr. Chaplains tavern Charlotte Hall Academy in St. Mary's county...
containing about 150 acres - the five Negroes consisting of three valuable men, a woman and a lad. MARY POTTINGER, Survivor of Samuel Tyler. February 27. - 2t.
SALE AT AUCTION.
On Tuesday the 3d March at 3 o'clock in the afternoon will be offered for sale on Mr. Anthony Rehnkeil's wharf, the CARGO of the Schooner Laurel, captain Doyle from Martinique, 64 Hds. and 30 Barrels of SUGAR, and 2000 pounds of COFFEE. Terms made known at time and place of sale. J. TRAVERS, Auct. February 27. - 2t.
RUNAWAY.
ON the 3th inst. a yellow man calling himself JOHN CLEMMONS was committed to the jail of Washington county in the district of Columbia as a runaway. He is about 25 years old, 5 feet 8 and 7-8 inches high, much pitted with the small pox, has a scar on his right hand made by a cutlass - says he is free, and belongs to Lancaster in Pennsylvania. He was committed in sailors clothes, and says he has been accustomed to follow the sea. The owner of said Clemmons (if he have any) is desired to release him, or he will be sold for his expenses as the law directs. DANIEL CARROLL BRENT, Marshal of the district of Columbia. Feb. 23. - w3t.
Valuable Seats for Iron Works.
THE subscriber offers for sale between Five and Six Thousand acres of Land bounded on one side by James River, including big and little Owen's Creek, and situate in Amherst county in the state of Virginia. This land is in the midst of a well and thick settled country, about 100 miles above the city of Richmond. There are not more than 30 acres of it cleared. The remainder is heavily timbered - consisting of large pines, white oaks, poplar, black walnut and chestnut. On Big Owens creek, and within 600 yards of James river, which is navigable for boats at all seasons of the year - there is an excellent site for any kind of water works. The stream is rapid and constant, and about three miles from the seat are, as it is believed inexhaustible banks of iron ore, which the subscriber has secured and which will be sold with the land. This ore has been tried and proved to be of a very superior kind. The land adjoining the seat is of excellent quality. Two hundred acres of timothy meadow might be made on the creek. The upland although hilly in places is well adapted to small grain, and a great proportion of it suitable to the raising of tobacco. Immediately around the site for water works are inexhaustible LIMESTONE Quarries, together with great quantities of the best building stone. In short there are many advantages combined to render this a most eligible spot for the erection of iron works, or any other kind of water works. It is deemed unnecessary to say more concerning this property than to request those who incline to purchase to view it. It will be shown by captain Henry Halloway in the neighborhood. The price will be moderate, terms of sale, which will be made very easy, will be made known on application to the proprietor residing in Georgetown district of Columbia. NATHAN LUFBOROUGH. Georgetown, February 16. - wtf.
This is to give notice, That the
subscriber of Prince George's county and state of Maryland, both obtained from the Orphan's court of said county, letters of administration on the personal estate of Richard Crumplin 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 on or before the 10th day of September next, they may otherwise by law be excluded from all benefit of the said estate. And all persons indebted to the said deceased are requested to make immediate payment to the subscriber. Given under my hand this 12th day of February, 1807. THOMAS BOWIE, Adm. of Richard Crumplin. Feb. 18. - w6t.
LAND FOR SALE,
By the Subscribers. IN Northumberland county - 300 acres called Exeter Lodge, residence of the late Col. John Gordon; good farming land, adapted to the growth of corn, wheat and tobacco. On this tract which lies on Potomac, a branch of Potomac river, there is a large brick dwelling house, within 200 yards of navigable water, abounding with oysters, equal to any in Virginia; fish and wild fowl in abundance, and remarkably healthy situation. In Fauquier county - about 200 acres wood land, adjoining Mrs. James and Mr. Bullock, near Elk Run Church. In Caroline county - 2700 acres, being part of what is called Beverly Chase. In Spottsylvania county - 100 acres wood land, adjoining Col. Joseph Brock, Messrs. J. Brock and S. Schoelers. Also, the middle tenement in the brick buildings in the town of Fredericksburg. In Culpeper county - 960 acres, joins Landon Carter, esq. farm on Rappahannock river, at Norman's Ford - 315 acres, adjoining Wm. C. Carter, esq. and Col. M. Green. Two thirds of this tract is in wood, and the whole of equal quality to any high land in the county. Also about 1100 acres in the Little Fork, laid out and reated in small farms. In Albemarle county - that elegant and well known place called Blenheim; containing, by a late survey, 900 acres, which will be sold altogether, or divided in Lots to suit purchasers. The whole or any part of the above property will be sold on very low terms, payable one third in cash or country produce, on giving deeds; and for the balance long credits will be given, payment being secured on the property. COLIN & JAMES ROSS. Frederickburg Virg. Dec. 12. - w.
HORSES FOR SALE.
The subscriber has for sale at his Repository No. 7, North Seventh Street, PHILADELPHIA - Four PAIRS of HORSES and two PAIRS of MARES, all well matched and Well broke, of the following descriptions, viz. One pair elegant blood bay horses, rising 5 or 6 years old, 15 1-2 hands high. One pair do. do. rising 4 and 5 do. 16 hands high. One pair do. lighter colored bay horses rising 5 or 6 do. 15 hands 2 inch high. One pair do. good blacks, rising 6 do. 15 1-2 hands high very gay. One pair bay mares (out built) rising 6 & 7 do. 15 1-2 hands high. One pair handsome grey mares rising 6 do. 15 hands high, great action, well broke to carriage or tandem. Also, Several single Horses of different colors, young & well broke to saddle or gig, all of which are perfectly found, and will be disposed of on reasonable terms, on application to WM. DAVIDSON. Philadelphia, February 27. - 3t.