The gazette (Portland, Me.), 1799-01-07 00:00:00

The Gazette.
[NUMBER 37.]
By ELEZER ALLEY JENKS, Portland, Maine.
[VOLUME 1.]
Portland.
MONDAY, JANUARY 7, 1799.
Communication.
THERE is a point of view in which I do not remember to have seen the policy of France respecting this country considered, and in which I shall now endeavour to place it. I think Montesquieu states the vital principle of republics to be virtue; of monarchies, honour; and of despotic governments, fear. This remark is made to introduce an idea of the French Republic, most infamously so called, preliminary to a view of its plan of operations in the United States. What virtue there has been in this insatiable nation at any stage of its whirlwind, let history declare, in which the preachments of Robespierre on that subject will scarcely make a very virtuous figure; but it is well known that till his death, and afterwards from the beniment of Pichegru and Barthélemi by the present virtuous Directory to this day, a principle so much beyond that of fear, as to be called even by the French nation itself the system of TERROR, has been not merely the life but the very soul of this "terrible REPUBLIC of France." Thus has this confederacy of robbers, murderers, and aheists, dared to assume the mild and gentle name of virtue in arrogating that of a Republic, and with Robespierre, Danton, Marat, and Carrier for preachers and examples, most wonderfully inverted the nature of things. Not merely a silent despotism under the gentle influence of fear, they have been a non descript species of the same kind so infinite in degree, and horrible in excess as yet to be without a name.—With this rule in our hands, let us proceed to see the operation of their principle of Virtue, for hear, O Heaven! and give ear O earth! these villans called it virtue, upon the United States.
These States indeed on the arrival of the new republican phrensy from France were truly republican in virtue. Having just reformed themselves, what reformation could they need? But in the midst of their tranquillity and contentment, the spirit of mildness, justice, affection, blessedness and glory alighted from France upon the land, as Buonaparte visited the African shores, unexpected, uninvited, adored. As Cortes carried the standard of Christ into the palace of Montezuma, and Pizarro and Luque read the bible to Atahualpa, even so the republican spirit of illuminated France descended on these benighted shores. With language of flattery and modulation—with felicitations like the dew of heaven—with sentiments of seraphic devotion—and like a flag to lick up in the hall of Congress, this very babe of innocence reposed its tender protected form in our arms.—Not Herod himself was I to the infants of Bethlehem as were "Despots" of every kind in the old corrupted world to the superhuman messenger of peace and freedom to mankind. Republics alone were worthy to be in asylum for the late inhabitant of heaven, and when the unrelenting neglect, or more barbarous ill usage of the unbelieving nations should be too much for her celestial essence to bear, to republics only would she retire.
Good as her word, and they have all had enough of her. But to the point—This, my unnumbered, is nothing more, odd as it may seem, than the language of compulsion, violation, invasion, and terror. Robespierre was whining just at all the time when the guillotine was hewing off all the best heads in France. 'Tis true, the canting rascal lost his own at last, and the guillotine stopped awhile from mere fatigue—but the revolution would not bear it, and his "eternal sleep" come into fashion again till what with guillotining, drowning boats, shootings, poisonings, and all manner of assassinations, France has lost seven millions of men. And do you not recollect—for this is my principal object—that even here there was always something ugly, fearful, irritating, and overbearing in the republicanism which came from France?—Did not the zealots or more probably the incendiaries of that persuasion or rather plot always mark out the good republicans from the aristocrats, and impose silence upon the latter on pain of their displeasure, of which the consequences were understood to be mysterious, but very bad? Who dared dissent a French cockade?—The system of terror then was in complete operation here, and for your comfort you may now see that all France ever intended was to terrify you—to take off the edge of which, and even your own sensibility of this disgrace, she granted you—HER ESTEEM!
But never did that nation nor any other do anything without design. Let us see the machinery of hers, which among good, bad, and indifferent national designs was the most cruel that ever was framed.—And the a young republic too! Mercy on us!—I shall try to develop it.—Vastness, magnificence, power and victory were well understood to produce admiration and respect from inferior, but more especially neutral, idle, and spectator-nations.
Moderation, benevolence, and condescension were equally well known to soften this effect without in the least degree destroying it.—This is evident from present experience, for now the latter no longer exists, the former remain in those minds which had received them.—Thus a sensation might be excited in the multitude the basis of which was servile deference, while they should suppose it was only honest admiration. This was effected by addressing Ge et, forming terrible clubs and hiring or forcing along the presses. But what was this to do?—It was to prepare the people to cast their eyes on those who had usually represented them, for here was the real object of France—the people were only the cats paw. It was already known in France that our general government would take a neutral position—from which they must be driven by the people. The people were to be made to judge the President, Senate, and House, through the new and wonder struck medium of a revolution which had none but false appearances. The people then would begin their tour of duty by providing France with such an American House of Representatives as would serve her turn. Further, the same cause was to produce the same effect in the Senates and Houses of the single States, that so, if possible, (but this was almost too much to hope) the Senate of the United States might be packed or terrified.—These two objects were pursued till after the British treaty, and we remember how hardly the supplies were obtained to carry it into effect after it had become the law of the land.—And finally, in the last two years of the Washington administration the people were rid by the French and Jacobins at a villainous rate. Mr. Jefferson had retired from the office of State pretty early in our controversy with France to be French candidate for the office of President when time should serve, and now in the approach of the election, it is disgraceful, it is sickening, and it is shameful to see the lying, and city, and scoundrelism with which our presses and conversations were made to groan. If a third part of the angels of heaven fell with Lucifer for that such a proportion of the people were deceived?—I undertake to say, that at this time Mr. Jefferson could scarcely get a solitary vote for any thing but exemplary punishment, out of the States of Virginia and Kentucky—But I have not quite done that yet.
Such is my theorem—now for the demonstration.—The position was that the conduct of France here was merely terrific, and that her friends were her dupes. We have brought affairs to the point where France was finally baffled and found herself unable to change or terrify our government; and now, in removing the veil from before the people's eyes which had done its duty and was no longer "in requisition," nothing remained of what they thought they saw, but a naked and horrible monster. IT WILL FOLLOW that the unity of France towards America was A SYSTEM OF TERROR AND CONTEMPT. Well then—No sooner had the diplomatic scene been brought to a close, than France held herself up to us as the "terrible Republic," attacked our commerce to destroy our revenues and burden our people with taxes, rejected our embassies, and treated the American nation with open scorn. That conclave of Hell, the Directory, boasted of the success of its deceptions, laughed at the distress of our government and told them in the persons of our Envoys that they could not undeceive the people. If I have any notion of the Devil, it is to Merlin, Barras, Lepaux, Rewbell, and Treillard, that I owe it, and with due gratitude I most cordially with them in his hands.
But we have not yet done. What will you say, my coadjutors, to those of your leaders, and even some of the inferior Jacobins, who since the discovery of all this villainy, have had the impudence to tell you that France is powerful, vindictive, and fatal? If it was proper for France to make the most of you that she could as a nation, ought you tamely to bear to be insulted with your sufferings by the desperate advice of these traitors in your own bosom whom she has abandoned to your just resentment? When the whole iniquitous scene shall be disclosed, when the guilty deeds that have been done and are now struggling to be known, shall "give their concealing concealments," and stare you in the face, will you still suffer these villains to tell you that you are a "British party," and to rate your patriotism by the scale of a wretched French calumny?—If you do, your meanness will be a rich title to any abuse whatever. (To be continued.)
Miscellaneous Articles.
By an act of Congress passed July 9, 1798, it is declared, that all claims against the United States for transactions during the late war, which are not presented before the first day of March next, either by the proper creditors, or their legal representatives, shall be forever barred and precluded from settlement or allowance.
Fourteen sail of British men of war, left England about the middle of Oct. Ten bound to the East Indies and four to reinforce Lord St. Vincent's fleet off Cadiz.
FOR THE GAZETTE.
SUCH THINGS ARE.
NUMBER IV.
If it assume a Jacobinic form I'll speak to't—tho' hell itself should gape, And bid me hold my peace. Shakspeare.
To JAMES GARRARD, Governor of Kentucky.
YOUR famous speech, delivered to the Legislature of your State, on the 7th November last, has made its appearance in some of our public papers—in which you manifested the strongest aversion to our constituted authorities; and, in your comments on some late acts of Congress, you have strangely perverted their principles, and even questioned the authority of the national legislature to pass them.
The political sentiments you have been pleased to express, are by no means new or singular: They are a plagiarism from the speeches of Samuel Adams, and a faithful transcript of the creed of Jefferson, and other patriotic reformers in America—who act under the immediate impulse of foreign influence, and who are ready to sign the death-warrant of their country. You have indeed adopted a train of arguments more than most of your cotemporaries in the revolutionary work—which renders it unworthy of a refutation, were it not that your official character attaches some degree of weight to it. On this principle alone we presume to notice your speech; and if this publication should ever fall under your eye, you will readily imagine, that as much public spirit exists in the District of Maine, as in the little State of Kentucky.
While it was the object of France to remedy the evils of her ancient system, and to relieve the people of oppressive burthens and exactions, not warranted by legitimate principles, the citizens of this District were impressed with sentiments favorable to their cause: They viewed with an eye of jealousy every act of the Federal Government, which had a tendency to contravene the most sanguine wishes of France, or to intimidate her friends and agents in this country: They even went so far as to celebrate the decapitation of the unfortunate Louis, the total extinction of the royal family, and the massacre of the clergy and nobility of the terrible nation. All this was the result of a firm belief, that the patriots of that country were influenced by the purest motives—and that they had discovered and were about to illustrate the principle by which the world was to be made happy, without the help or intervention of legal authority. But when the original objects of the French revolution were abandoned by its councils—when it became apparent, that, instead of rational freedom, they were extorting the property of the people to support the reign of terror at home, and a system of legal plunder among neutrals—when they manifested a disposition to make all nations subservient to their designs—and even filled them with secret spies and agents to corrupt the public mind, and to stimulate rebellion—then the citizens of Maine, with nine tenths of the people of America, felt an inward horror at their own previous credulity, and instantly commenced enemies to French politics and to French fraternity. They now see in the French nation a gang of robbers and assassins—who profane the holy Sabbath, and deny the existence of a God; and also behold in American jacobins the character and features of the jacobins of Paris. If we do not consider you as one of this detestable society, it will not be because your speech exempts you from the infamous connection.
We now come to your speech, wherein you allege that the object to which you requested the attention of the legislature was of a most serious and alarming nature.—That the state of Kentucky had a constitutional right to applaud or to censure the national Government.—That the alien bill is calculated to produce effects the most strongly marked with injustice and oppression; because the power therein given depends on the direction or caprice of the President, and because those implicated by it are denied the right of trial by jury.—That the edition bill has created a new crime against the United States, armed with penal terrors, in a manner before unknown.—That both of these acts are unconstitutional.—That we are now on the eve of a war with France—from which we cannot derive any possible advantage, and may lose every thing that is valued by freemen. To complete your climax or peroration, you then advert to the aspersions cast on the political character of your State to the Eastward—but in your vindication, and in the resolutions of your legislature passed only three days subsequent to the delivery of your speech, we see a full and candid manifestation of the very character you affect to despise, and which before was propagated only by the rumours of suspicion.
We very much doubt whether the State governments have a right to censure the Congress of the nation—because the members of the
latter must necessarily experience the operation of the laws they make—and therefore the presumption of integrity and honest views, ought always to precede the imputation of deliberate guilt.—And such a censure, coming from the constituted authorities of a State, has a direct tendency to propagate ill founded jealousies, and to create a disposition for rebellion. If the members of our national councils have acted contrary to the interests of the people, and violated our national charter, the latter may check the evil by an election of others more suitable to their wishes; and this very guarantee must silence the voice of the state Government, unless they suppose the people to be fools, and incapable of acting for themselves. The citizens of Massachusetts have exercised this constitutional mode of election—and thereby doomed Messrs. Skinner and Dearborn, two rank jacobins, to the solitary walks of private life:—and it is hoped that this example, so worthy of a free people, will ere long be adopted in the little state of Kentucky.
Nothing in the alien bill can possibly fension the apprehensions excited by it. The conduct of aliens for several years past, so hostile to our peace and safety, manifests in the most emphatic manner the policy and propriety of some legal restraints. Whether the mode adopted be the most proper, we will not discuss;—perhaps the infliction of criminal justice in the ordinary course of law on some intriguing foreigners among us, would have better comported with the spirit of the times, and been more consistent with the usage and customs of nations in similar cases: For it is a maxim founded in the most enlightened policy, that the severity of the laws ought to bear an equal proportion to the malignancy of the evils to be corrected. Who will deny that our present disorders, both in and out of our public councils, are fomented by the arts and intrigues of foreigners? We have long been afflicted by the pestilence of French points, first propagated among us by French ministers and their agents;—and we have seen a Jefferson, a Galatin, and a numerous band of Jacobins subservient to their plans, encourage and justify them in direct opposition to the dictates of the plainest policy; and to the measures adopted by our constituted authorities to preserve our national rights. We may trace the origin of most of our political troubles in the toleration granted to foreigners; and motives of prudence, and the still higher motives of self preservation demand the most vigorous measures from our government. All nations have adopted a similar principle relative to foreigners—and precedents of similar measures appear on almost every page of history. England, Holland, and France, both before and during the present revolution, have all made laws for the immediate expulsion of foreigners, whenever the times required it. Nor is this depriving them of the right of trial by jury, in case a crime be committed. If an alien be expelled our country by virtue of the alien bill, it does not necessarily follow that he has committed a crime, or that one is imputed to him. It is enough, if he interferes in the politics of our government, or propagates sentiments hostile to it. These are not breaches of the peace, nor are they subject to civil cognizance, according to the true operation of law. The contrary must have been supposed by Governor Garrard, otherwise he could not be so stupid as to complain of the want of trial by jury. The propriety therefore of the alien bill rests wholly on the principles of expediency; and to say that we have no constitutional right to expel dangerous and mischievous foreigners, is the most absurd of all declarations. Every government must necessarily possess the means of its own preservation.
A singular remark may be made with respect to the sedition bill. Strange it is that this act should be deemed hard or unconstitutional. It creates no new crime;—it includes nothing more than the common law on the same subject; and if Mr. GARRARD had been indicted, convicted, and punished, previous to the passing of this statute, for writing false and scandalous libels against the President and the general Government, the legislature of his state, however much chained with French fraternity, would have suppressed their resolves of censure: With what confidence then can they now unite in denouncing a statute law, which has existed in substance, and constantly practiced on, ever since this country was favored with Courts of Justice? The fact is, the craft is in danger—and nothing but the reign of terror, excited by jacobins, can screen them from exemplary punishment. What reasonable man can say, that the propagators of scandalous falsehoods against our President or Governor, tending to bring them into disrepute, or to excite sedition among the people and done with deliberate and malicious intent (for all these are necessary requisites to constitute a crime) ought not to be subject to some penal restraints? This abridges not the freedom of the press, unless the punishment of its licentiousness be considered as an abridgment. As well may we say, that neither theft nor robbery ought to be punished, because it abridges the freedom of action. The sedition bill, there-

It is not repugnant to the constitution, unless it be so construed as to approbate the perversion of truth, and to sanction the lies and calumnies of wicked men. This is not the freedom contemplated by that instrument—it extends to the promotion of rational enquiry, and protects the citizen in the propagation of his opinions, provided he keeps within the bounds of truth, and does not vent his defamations with intent to effect some unlawful purpose.
Your mournful dirge at the prospects of war is better suited to a demoniac , at this period, than to the chief magistrate of a State. No advantages to be gained by war! May probably lose every thing that is valued by free men! Surely, Mr. Garrard , you have caught the fever of Jefferson —imbued at the approach of the British troops into Virginia during the late war, when, while he was Governor of that State, he quitted it with precipitation—and left his fellow citizens to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, as he had done. A few more such fevers will invite the canibals of France to our doors; and then these twin-brothers in sedition may chant their national hymns in honor of their Illuminated system. If the unremitted rapine of France for more than five years past—if the extinguishment of morality, of religion, of the faith of treaties, and of the law of nations, among Frenchmen—if the manifestation of a design on their part to reduce us to slavery, by the destruction of our present government—are not sufficient causes of war, then let us bend our necks to the guillotine, and not survive the death of our freedom!
But before this melancholly catastrophe takes place, the people of the Northern States will make one manly effort to repel the attacks of France, and to punish the treason of domestic enemies. If the State of Kentucky, patronized by Virginia, and headed by Garrard and Jefferson , should set up the standard of our ancient tories—espouse the cause of our implacable enemies, and aim a deadly blow at our own government, they must expect a similar fate; and the citizens of Maine will be the first to begin the salutary work. The resolutions of Virginia and Kentucky, grounded on the most absurd principles, and in conformity to the speeches of their first magistrates, may serve to render the delusion of their citizens still more inveterate, and very probably produce a temporary opposition to the measures of the Federal Government—But a returning sense of propriety, and of the intrigues by which they are now seduced, will eventually operate on the body politic, like a cathartic on the human frame, and purge it of its creditable particles; and Jefferson and Garrard will fall the first victims to popular fury!
Legislature of the Union.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
THURSDAY, DEC. 20.
GENERAL BANKRUPT SYSTEM.
The bill on this subject was read, discussed, and amended; but not gone through with.
The treasurer of the United States, made a statement of the War and Navy department. Ordered to be printed.
A bill for amending the Stamp Act, as it relates to Bills of Exchange, and Bills of Lading, was read twice, and committed.
FRIDAY, DEC. 21.
A committee was raised to report a bill providing compensation for Clerks, Marshals, Attorneys, Jurors, and Witnesses.
BLOUNT'S IMPEACHMENT.
The House spent the day in debate on the manner in which the impeachment should be prosecuted. The managers proposed a resolution, requesting the Senate that further order be taken for compelling the appearance of William Blount. The supporters of the proposition were Messrs. Sewall, Harper, and Gordon—its opponents, who contended that the trial might proceed without Blount's personal attendance, were Messrs. Nichols, Ouis, Dana, and Edmond. The question being taken, the yeas and nays were, for the resolution 11—against it 69. Adjourned to Monday.
MONDAY, DEC. 24.
A report from the Treasury Department, on the expenditure of 1797, and '98, was read, and referred.
MILITIA.
Messrs. Craik, Wadsworth, Sandford, Thomson, and Havens, were appointed a committee to report on the Militia Laws.
The unfinished business was postponed, as many members had to attend to Blount's impeachment.
SENATE, Dec. 24.
HIGH COURT OF IMPEACHMENT.
UNITED STATES vs. BLOUNT.
The Court being formed, for the trial of William Blount, the Managers, and Messrs. Ingersol and Dallas, the defendant's council, took their seats. After the credentials of the defendant's Council were verified; they put in their plea against the charges exhibited against Mr.
Blount. The plea contended that Blount had no right to answer to that Court—but to the Courts of common law of the jurisdiction wherein the officers were committed; as said Blount, is not now a Senator, nor was at the periods referred to in the impeachment, an Officer of the United States.
After the plea was read, the Managers were allowed to the 3d January, to make their replication.
Language to the purpose!
[On the 21st of December the House of Representatives of the State of Pennsylvania, waited on the President of the United States, and presented him a patriotic and animated address, approving his administration, and offering their aid and co-operation in the defence of our national sovereignty and rights. To which he made the following noble REPLY:]
GENTLEMEN.
I RECEIVE the honor of this address from the House of Representatives of the State of Pennsylvania, expressive of their approbation of my conduct, as Chief Magistrate of the United States, in support of the Honor and Independence of this country, with more than common gratitude and peculiar sensibility.
The passion of ambition is in its nature unlimited. The late wild projects suggested by it on the theatre of Europe, are not new. The French nation, from their numbers, their situation, their resources, their bravery, activity, ingenuity and enterprize, have been peculiarly subject to paroxysms of this distemper of the human mind. The spirit of conquest, which has often seized on this people, has however, never taken possession of them without making work for severe repentance—without involving France in extravagant exertions, and expences, both of blood and treasure, which have exhausted it to such a degree, as to require sometimes whole centuries of languor and lassitude before they could recover their true station in the world.
There has not been a sound mind in France which has not always regretted and lamented this foible in his countrymen. Nor do I believe there is a Frenchman in the world at this day, who is really and truly enlightened with the knowledge of the true interest and honor of his country, who does not bewail the infatuation which is producing temporary calamities to other nations, and must produce more lasting misfortunes to France.
The insidious and malevolent policy of dividing people and nations from their government is not original: The French have not the credit even of the invention of it. It is borrowed from the great nation of Persia, who were taught it by the little republic of Sparta, after she was debauched and corrupted. France ought to be ashamed of it, and the world ought to make her repent of her servile imitation.
Candor must own that our country lies under a reproach which it concerns the nation to correct: it is that of producing individuals who are capable not only of dark interferences by usurpation in our external concerns, but also capable of forgetting or renouncing their principles, feelings and habits, in a foreign country, and becoming enemies to their own. The disgraceful observation has been made, and with too much appearance of truth, that there are more Americans than there are of any other nation who change their minds when they change their skies. Scandalous and criminal proofs of this are heard and read almost every day. Whether this is owing to a want of national character, or a want of criminal law, a remedy ought to be sought.
The solemn pledge you give to co-operate with the general government, in advertising all foreign influence and detecting domestic intrigue, is very important to the common welfare of our country, and will give great satisfaction to the Union.
I return, gentlemen, with great pleasure, my sincere and earnest wishes for your health, that your care for the public good may continue, as I doubt not it will, and with it the confidence of the citizens of Pennsylvania in particular, and the union in general.
JOHN ADAMS.
Philadelphia, Dec. 11, 1798.
More Good News!
By Capt. Flint, arrived at Salem, with foreign gazettes, six days later than before received.
Destruction of the Brest Fleet!
OFFICIAL ACCOUNTS.
FROM THE LONDON GAZETTE EXTRA.
OCT. 21.
THE Lords of the Admiralty have received the following Dispatches of Commodore John B. Warren:
On board of the Canada, Lough-Ship, Oct. 16.
SIR,
In compliance with your orders, which I received by the Kangaroo brig, I failed with my ship the Canada, of 74 guns, the Robust of 74, the Foudroyant of 80, and Magnanime, of 44, to the heights of Archilhead. On the 10th inst. were joined by the Melpomene, of 44, and the Doris of 38. The latter I ordered to cruise between the isle of Tory and Rosies in search of the enemy. The same evening were
joined by the Amelia of 44, which had parted with the Ethalion of 38, Anson of 44, and Sylph of 18, which vessels had been carefully observing the manoeuvres of the French since Sept. 17. On the 11th we fell in with these vessels; and soon after on the NW of us got sight of the enemy's squadron, consisting of one 80 gun ship, 8 frigates, a brig and a schooner. I made the signal for a general chase, and to form the line of battle as our ships came up with them, which however we did not do till the 12th, owing to a heavy sea and our enemy's being to windward. Notwithstanding the severity of the weather, we continued the chase through the 11th, day and the night. At half past five o'clock on the morning of the 12th, we saw the enemy not far from us. They formed a close line of battle, and advanced on us on our starboard side—but we did not meet till 7 o'clock, as the chase had scattered my vessels. I made the signal for the Robust to lead and engage, which was instantly obeyed, and the other ships formed after her. The action commenced twenty minutes before 8 o'clock, the Rosies bearing 15 miles SSW of us. At 11 o'clock the Hoche surrendered, after a gallant defence; all the frigates at that moment fled. A signal was made for pursuing them; and in five hours after, three of them were captured. The remaining five for that time escaped. All these frigates, as well as the ship of the line, were new, & full of troops, provisions, ammunition, &c. to forward their designs on Ireland. With pleasure I observe, that the behaviour of all my officers and sailors was such as evinced the warmest affection for their king and country. I left Capt Thornborough with the command of the Magnanime, Ethalion, and Amelia, to take charge of the prizes and conduct them to port. I expect him in every moment. I have the honour to be, &c.
J. B. WARREN.
P.S. The following ships were in the battle, viz. Canada, Robust, Foudroyant, Magnanime, Ethalion, Melampus and Amelia. The Anson did not arrive till after the action—as she had in the chase, carried away a top-gallant mast. I have ordered my lieutenant, Turguand, to take charge of the Hoche.
Commodore Warren, in another letter of the same date, to Lord Castle-reach, says, that among the vessels of the enemy which escaped, was a brig supposed to have Napper Tandy on board; that he was of opinion the fugitive ships could not reach France, as every one was more or less damaged in masts and rigging, and had to sustain a heavy gale the day after the action.—Many papers, &c. were thrown overboard, from the ships that surrendered. Several troops were on board.
The London Gazette also contains an official account of the capture of the Resolute of 40 guns, 500 men, by the Melampus of 38 guns, Capt. Moore, on the Irish coast, Oct. 13. The Immortalite, another French frigate, of 44 guns, hove in sight just after the Resolute struck, and made off.
The London and Dublin papers to the 20th, say, corroborately, that three other French frigates had been driven to Sligo bay; and a Glasgow account of Oct. 19th mentions the bringing into that harbour another French frigate commanded by Hardy. Should they all prove true, the entire destruction of the fleet is accomplished.
Destruction of the Dutch fleet.
[NOT OFFICIAL.]
LONDON, Oct. 23.
A cartel ship has arrived at Dover, the commander of which informs, that the combined English and Russian fleet, under Lord Duncan, had entered the Texel, where they had landed troops, which had attacked the forts, while the fleet succeeded in destroying a part of the Dutch ships.
Congress of Rastadt.
At Rastadt, Oct. 25, the tedious Congress was still in session. The French deputies had sent an express to Paris, for the advice of the Directory relative to the last proposition made to them; and on this advice probably hangs the event of peace or war.
The Russian army, has been marching to the German territory, has halted to await the decision of the Congress. This decision, it is like, is now about to be made.
Buonaparte beaten & starving!
VIENNA, OCT. 21.
Letters just received from Messina, dated Oct. 10, state the arrival there of a vessel directly from Alexandria, with intelligence that Buonaparte's army experienced a terrible battle, in which even the victorious Arabs lost 12,000.—Buonaparte's army was melted down to a few thousand and had thrown itself into Alexandria. One account (for which we will not vouch) says, Buonaparte is taken prisoner.
[The route of this intelligence is direct, and the dates not contradictory.]
LONDON, Oct. 23.
A letter from Capt. Trowbridge to Lord St. Vincents contains the following:
"The Arabian and Egyptian workmen having deserted the French, and the French not being used to the heat, could not open the channels from the Nile, by which the cisterns at Alexandria are supplied with water; there is, therefore, a scarcity of water, as well as provisions. The provision fleet, which sailed from Toulon the beginning of August, and on which the French army in Egypt principally depended, returned, on being informed of Nelson's victory."
Two letters are received from Earl St. Vincent, containing dispatches from the Nile to Aug. 25. On that day the boat of the Goliath took the French ship Torride, of three 18 pounders & 70 men, as she lay at anchor under the castle of Bequier. Aug. 22, before Alexandria, the Alcmena took a packet boat of two guns and 61 men, from Toulon.
FRENCH ACCOUNTS.
PARIS, Oct. 22
The Redacteur contains many official letters from Buonaparte and Berthier. But the dates of them do not come later than the middle of August. They mention many particulars of the leading of the army, and of its progress to Cairo. They were not discouraged at the loss of the fleet. Buonaparte embraces every stratagem to awe the people. At Cairo he sent up an air-balloon, the ascent in which he persuaded the Egyptians was a messenger from Mahomet. The Arabs are described by the General as athletic and active; that they attack with the ferocity of the panther, and have an unconquerable aversion to Europeans. They swarm round his army, and harass his guards; giving no quarters to any who fall into their hands. He found the beys perfidious, and he had no reliance on their faith in the observance of treaties. In one of the actions before he entered Cairo, he mentions having killed and taken 2000 Mamelukes, 400 camels, and 50 pieces of artillery.
[The letters above mentioned are of old dates, and were published in Paris to give the people some account of Buonaparte's first progress in Egypt; the substance of which has been already published in The Gazette.]
From Hamburgh.
BOSTON, JANUARY 2.
A Hamburg paper of the 6th October, contains the following corroborate account of the fate of Buonaparte. It was received officially at Constantinople, by a courier, the 22d October, by way of Belgrade. "Constantinople, Oct. 28. The Porte has received an official account from the Pacha of Cairo, stating that Buonaparte had left that city for Alexandria. His first intention was to defend the castle of Cairo, at all events; and for this purpose he threw into it a strong garrison. He had taken a position against the Arabs, in advance of Cairo. [In a former account it was mentioned that he had thrown up entrenchments four hours (a term meaning leagues) in front of Cairo.]—The Arabs did not cease to harass him and he waited there to sustain the attack meditated against him, by the Arabs, the Beys, and the Kopten; and to see the effect of the distribution of money, &c. at Cairo; where he was disappointed. The garrison at the castle had many difficulties to overcome; and notwithstanding, from the mode of attack of the Arabs, Buonaparte always remained master of the field, such were his losses, that he was at last obliged to retreat to Alexandria; where he was determined to make a stand, and defend himself to the last extremity.—If the account of the last victory of the Arabs can be credited, Buonaparte's army must be reduced to 8000 men. The Arabian army was 60,000 strong, & do not consider the French invaders

as soldiers, but as free-booters; and, therefore give them no quarter. Their hatred against them is heightened by the consideration, that they deem their objects to be the plunder of Mecca, and the overthrow of the religion of their fathers. In this idea they are confirmed by the declaration of war of the Sublime Porte, and their cautions to all true Musselmans. The French, agreeably to Buonaparte's proclamation, have committed various hostilities on those towns which did not readily obey their summons to surrender. This has heightened the rage of the natives; and the young men fly in great numbers to the Standard of Mahomet.
From Gibraltar, Oct. 18--23. [OFFICIAL] "The Roanoake, brought in here has been acquitted, and on application of the American Consul to Lord St. Vincent's he not only granted her a convoy, as she was not armed, but leave to bring out for the United States a cargo of the produce of Spain. "Six of Lord Nelson's prizes have arrived here, five of which are ready to repair to Lisbon, there to get some temporary repairs before they go for England: they are under jury masts, and in a shocking state. They are Le Franklin of 80, Le Tonant 80, Le Spartiate of 74, Le Conquerant of 74, Le Peuple Souveraine 74, and L'Aquillon of 74 guns. "Admiral Nelson is blocking up Malta."
"By a Dane 27 days from Leghorn, it is reported that the Maltese had rose on the French garrison, dispossessed them of the island, and thrown themselves under the protection of Great Britain, and the King of Naples: He further reports, that Buonaparte had been compelled by the Turks to reembark his army, and was in great want of provisions; and that the English continued to block them up."
THE GAZETTE.
Portland.
Monday, January 7, 1799.
The pressure of foreign important news must apologize the omission of several local articles prepared for this day's Gazette.
The affluence of the British naval commanders in gathering the remnants of the French navy, seems to evince a determination to "leave not a wreck behind."
PRINTERS TO ARMS.
[Now is the moment for vigilance and activity. Let no one sleep at his post. The miserable faction of France is now reduced to the desperate alternative of assassination! It must be destroyed before our country can be secure. An attempt has been made to assassinate the Editor of the Gazette of the United States. The following is his account of the transaction:—]
Philadelphia, Dec. 21.
"There came last night to my house two Russians, one of whom lurked about the porch, while the other, as I stood at my own door, struck me on the head with a bludgeon: Amazed at such baseness, and being assaulted wholly unawares, I turned into my office to seize a stick, instead of pressing on the assailant, whereby I might have promptly punished his audacity. Reflecting on the transaction since it has occurred to me, that I was fortunate in not closing with him, as his dagger-armed companion would immediately have fallen upon me, and in the scuffle which must have ensued, I should have been murdered. I went after the nocturnal assassin this morning, to return his domiciliary visit. A woman came forward to say he was not at home."
"He will not, however, pass unpunished: But future attacks will be repelled in a different manner; and if these Dagger-men choose thus to push things to extremities, they will find me better prepared. JOHN WARD FENNO. "
"AND SO IT FALLS OUT,"
That Jacobins must down.
[How the "Jacobins" fared in this District, the following most amply demonstrates:]
From Augusta (Kennebec) Dec. 29
Early information concerning the transaction alluded to in the underwritten declaration, was given to Mr. D. Davis, of Portland, the Attorney for the United States in the District of Maine, who immediately deputed Mr. Bridge of Augusta to enquire into the facts: and if evidence should offer to warrant a prosecution, to cause the principal offenders to be arrested and bound over for trial. Measures
for this purpose were taken without delay; but coming to the knowledge of Messrs. Webber & Brown, (the only persons concerned who were tho't of sufficient consequence to be prosecuted) they voluntarily came forward, threw themselves on the mercy of the Government, subscribed the following declaration, and lodged it with Mr. Bridge for publication in the Newspapers, on condition, that the Attorney for the District should consent to relinquish the prosecution: His consent having been obtained (with some reservations, approved by Webber and Brown) it is hoped that the public will be satisfied with the following
RECANTATION.
THE subscribers, having been instrumental in assembling a number of persons at the dwelling house of Charles Webber, in Vassalborough, on the fifteenth day of November last; at which meeting several measures took place derogatory to the Government of the United States, and tending to bring the Authority and Laws of the same into contempt; such as erecting a Liberty Pole, and burning certain papers purporting to be certain Acts of Congress, called the Alien Act, and the Sedition Act. Convinced of the impropriety of those measures, and desirous to atone for the insult offered to the Government by them, We thus publicly declare our unfeigned sorrow for the part we took in those proceedings, and our determination for the future to respect the Constitution and Laws of the United States, and to conduct ourselves as becomes good citizens of the best Government in the world
CHARLES WEBBER, BENJAMIN BROWN.
Attest, JAMES BRIDGE, REUEL WILLIAMS. Dec. 6, 1798.
FOR THE GAZETTE. TO THE SELECTMEN OF THE TOWN OF PORTLAND.
GENTLEMEN, AS you are, in the month of January, annually, required to appoint a number of men to manage the FIRE ENGINES of this town, not exceeding 18 men to each Engine; permit me, through the medium of The Gazette , to suggest to you the expedience of collecting for this trust, at this important crisis of our public affairs, as far as is attainable, men that are by law exempted from military duty.—One of the engines (the Vigilant) is now managed in part by gentlemen of this description; the other, if I mistake not, by those that are not otherwise exempted from military duty—I presume you will be convinced of the fitness of this measure, when you are reminded of this fact: that the standing companies of militia of this town, did not the last summer, and it is probable they do not now, bear a sufficient number of names on their respective rolls, to constitute full companies; notwithstanding the number of taxable polls of this town exceeds 700!!! It is to be hoped there is an adequate number of citizens, sufficiently patriotic, among the exempted, to perform this duty; or that those now entrusted with it, will pledge themselves on their reappointment, to perform military duty in the standing companies of militia to which they respectively belong, when required so to do, notwithstanding their being intrusted with the management of the engines. Those undoubtedly will, whose motives in accepting this appointment, will not be the privilege (if it is so deemed) of exemption from military service. To those, whose motives are different, I am willing to acknowledge, I cannot discern any uncommon degree of patriotism in their acceptance of this trust.
One exempted from ordinary trainings. Portland, 5th Jan. 1799.
COMMERCIAL.
Extract of a letter from a respectable house in Hamburg, to a merchant in Boston, Oct. 26, '98.
"The Batavian Directory have taken a Resolution, whereby the importation of any goods whatever coming from England, is prohibited.—This decree will be rigidly executed, and all vessels that arrive after the 31st. will not be permitted to enter any Dutch port; but ordered to sail for elsewhere; those that enter after the 15th Nov. will share a still harder fate, and will be confiscated as the profits of the Republic. The article of Sugar , from the immense quantity which has been lately shipped from England, has become very plenty and cheap; Cotton scarce. "
Their Excellencies Edmund Rutledge; and William R. Davie, Esquires, are elected Governors of South and North Carolina.
Hon. Charles Pinckney is elected Federal Senator for South Carolina. And Major Franklin for the State of North Carolina.
Matthew Lyon is re-elected member of Congress.—Dr. Logan is also chosen member of Congress. [ Who the Devil won't be chosen next? ]
The intensely cold weather for several days past, has closed up our harbour with ice.
MARRIED —On Wednesday evening last, Capt. JOHN WATRE, to the agreeable Miss ALICE CROSS, both of this town.
DIED —At Georgetown, Hon. WILLIAM LITHGOW, Esq. Æt. 86.
At Hallowell, Miss HARRIET MANNING VAUGHAN, eldest daughter of Mr. Benjamin Vaughan.
Marine Articles.
Port of Portland.
Tuesday last, arrived from Frederick, Capt. E. Cross, 35 days from Trinidad. Sailed in company with brig Polly, Smith, Portland; brig Columbia, Mayo, Newburyport; brig Morning-Star, Perkins, and Schooner Mercury, Smith of Kennebunk. Left there, Nov. 28, Schooners —, Plummer, Kennebunk; —, Foster, Plymouth; Delight, Green, Providence; and Washington, —, Old York; —, brig Sophia, Nason, Portland, and Eliza, Burroughs, Boston; Ship Fame, Nichols, of New York, to sail in 5 days, and a Schooner from Portsmouth, just arrived.
The ship Mercury, of Pepperelborough, has arrived at the Vineyard, 49 days from Grenada.
Capt. Drinkwater, in a Schooner from Philadelphia to this port, was in at the Vineyard Monday last.
JOSEPH CROSS,
(who formerly did business in the store now occupied by STEVENS & HOVEY.)
Informing his friends and the public, that he has recommenced business, in the NEW STORE, at the head of Mr. INGRAHAM's Wharf, where he has just opened and has now ready for sale, a Variety of
European, W. India, & other COODS.
AMONG WHICH ARE,
Broadcloths—Cassimeres —Elastick Cloths—Forest Cloths—Flannels—Baizes—Blankets—Duffils—Devonshire Kerseys—Lambkins—Waistcoat Patterns—Figured Ticklets—Fancy twill'd do.—Callicoes—Muffins—India Cottons—Dimotys—Linnens—Mouselins—Durants—Moreens—Shawls—Satin—Mouselins—Black Gauze—Sewing Silk—Threads and Twill—Oil'd Cloths—Bed Ticking—Ravens and Russia Duck—Cotton Hois—Ladies' Kid Gloves—Common do.—Large and Small Sciffars—Women's cloth Shoes—Hats—Bread Trays—Elegant Servers—Assortment of Buttons—Knives and Forks—Jack and pen Knives—Slates—Large Kettles—Brass ditto—4d, 6d, 1d, and 2d, Nails—7 by 9 Glass—Salt Fish, of different kinds—Pepper—Ginger—Cinnamon—Excellent Raisins, per cask—Candles—Bohea and Souchong Tea—Coffee—Chocolate—Loaf and Brown Sugar—Brushes, of different kinds—Shovels—Nails, of all sorts—Tobacco—W. I. Rum—N. E. ditto per barrel—Brandy—Malaga Wine, &c. &c.
Excellent Rhode-island Chees.
The above Goods being laid in on the lowest terms, will be sold cheap for CASH ONLY. No credit will be given. Portland, January 5th, 1799.
REMOVED.
FRYE POOR,
Respectfully informs his customers and the public in general, that he has removed from Fifth St. and has taken the Eastern end of the
New Brick Store in Middlestreet,
near the head of Union-Street, where he has for sale A Fresh Assortment of
English & Hard Ware Goods,
which he is determined to sell on as low terms [for CASH] as may be had at any store in town.
among which are
Superfine & second Broad-
cloths, Cassimers, Elasticks, Plains, Devonshire Kerseys, Duffils, Swandown, Blankets, American manufactured Bedtickling, Red, yellow and green Baizes, Black, white and yellow twill'd Flannels, India Cottons, suitable for shirting and sheeting, Diapers, Linnens, Brown Hollands, Muffins, Mouselins, Dimotys, Patch colored and purple Muffin Shawls, Silk ditto, Silk Hankerchiefs, Black Modes and Sattins, Colored ditto, Black, white and changeable Lustings, Persian, Sarimets; an assortment of long and short Kid Gloves, Men's leather and silk ditto, Men's silk, worked and gauze Stockings, Ruffs, Durants, Shaloonos and Callimancoes, an assortment of Ribbons, Fashionable Callimancoes, Sewing Silks, Twists, Threads, Ladies' black red and green Slippers, an assortment of men's, boy's and children's Shoes, &c. &c.
HARD WARE.
4d, and 10d, Nails; 3d, 4d,
5d, and 6d Brads, 14 oz. Tacks, and 2d, clout Nails Thumb Latches, H and HL Hinges, Skates, Cur- rumbos, Webbing, Floor, hearth, cloth, furniture, shoe and comb Brushes, Bellows, Knives and Forks, Shovels and Tongs, Brads and iron Candlesticks, Buckles, Buttons Block tin Teapots, Iron and block tin Spoons, Pewter Plates, Hammers, Flat Irons, Brads Chimney hooks, Brads Chaffing dishes, Dividers, Paint Brushes, Ivory, crooked and horn Combs, Gunter and pocket Ruls, Augers, Adz, Chisels, Brads Nails, Spectacles, Screws, Razors, assortment of Tea Trays, Looking Glasses, assortment of Tin Ware, 9 by 7 Window Glass, per box or square, Tea Cannifers, Knob and Ring locks, Bed Keys, Plain Irons, Polished Snuffers, Snuffer stands, Chopping Knives, Hand Vices, Saw Sets, Cupboard Turns, Small brads and iron Table Hinges, Plyers, Screw drivers, Cutting Nippers, Awls and Tacks, Elastick and common knitting Needles, Gun Worms, Cooper's Bits, Claps, Sleeve Buttons, &c. &c.
An assortment of Crockery Ware.
Also, Hyson, Souchong, and Bohea TEAS, Coffee, Chocolate, Loaf Sugar, Cinnamon, Mace, Poland Starch, &c. Portland, January 3, 1799.
Consular Notice.
THE undersigned Vice Consul of His Majesty the King of Sweden , and authorised to transact the Consular business for His Majesty the King of Denmark within the States of New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island, hereby notifies all Captains of vessels of the respective nations, and all persons trading under the protection of these Flags, that it is requisite their ships' papers should be exhibited at this office, and that he has instructions then to furnish them such certificates as the urgency of existing circumstances renders necessary to evince the neutrality of the vessel and property.
CHARLES F. DEGEN.
Consular Office, Boston, Dec. 18th, 1798. The different Printers in the several States are requested to give publicity to the above.
Samuel Waldo's Estate.
NOTICE is hereby given to all concerned, that the subscriber has been duly appointed Administrator to the estate of SAMUEL WALDO, late of Portland in the county of Cumberland, Merchant, deceased; and has taken upon herself that trust by giving bond as the law directs. She therefore requests all persons, who have any demands on said estate, to bring in the same for settlement; and all those who are indebted to said estate to make payment without delay, to
SARAH TYNG WALDO, Administratrix. Portland, December 1st, 1798.
Simeon Quinby's Estate.
THE subscribers hereby give notice to all concerned, That having been duly appointed administrators upon the estate of SIMEON QUINBY, late of Falmouth, in the county of Cumberland, clothier, deceased, have taken upon themselves that trust, and given bond as the law directs. They therefore request all persons who are indebted to said deceased's estate to make immediate payment, and those who have any demands thereon to exhibit the same to
SALLY QUINBY, } Administratrices. ELEAZER BURBANK, } Falmouth, Dec. 29, 1798.
Asa Sanborn's Estate.
THE subscriber hereby gives notice to all concerned, That he hath been duly appointed Administrator on the estate of ASA SANBORN, late of Gorham, in the county of Cumberland, yeoman, deceased, and given bond as the law directs. As such he hereby calls upon all persons who have any claims against said estate, to exhibit the same, and upon those who are indebted to said estate, to make immediate payment to
ELISHA SANBORN. Gorham, Dec. 20, 1798.
William Cogswell's Estate.
NOTICE is hereby given to all concerned, that the subscriber has been duly appointed Administratrix to the estate of WILLIAM COGSWELL, late of Portland in the county of Cumberland, Merchant, deceased, and has taken upon herself that trust by giving bond as the law directs. She therefore requests all persons, who have any demands on said estate, to bring in the same for settlement; and all those, who are indebted to said estate, to make payment without delay, to
HANNAH P. COGSWELL, Administratrix. Portland, December 4, 1798.
To the Public.
THE President and Directors of the MASSACHUSETTS FIRE INSURANCE COMPANY, anxious to keep in view the principle of public benefit, which gave origin to their institution, and to lessen, as far as in their power, the severity of misfortunes, consequent from those devastating fires to which we are exposed have determined to reduce the Rates of Insurance, so low, as they presume will meet the circumstances of every class of citizens. For a trifling sum annually every individual can now have it in his power, to secure to himself and family, a part of the earnings perhaps of a long life, from the grasp of this merciless tyrant, and to equalize his losses on the community. By these cautious means, while he preserves the reward of his industry, he saves his feelings from the shock of humbling himself to petition; and secures the right boldly to demand compensation.
The present rates of Insurance are as follows, calculated on a scale of reduction of 25 per cent, from the former rates, viz.
1st Class —Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls, and slate tile, lead, copper, or composition roofs, standing separate from other buildings—50 cents on 100 dollars.
2d Class —Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls, and slate, tile, lead, copper, or composition roofs, connected with other buildings, having brick partition walls of one or more feet above the roof—55 cents.
3d Class —Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls, and wooden roofs, that stand separate from, or connected with other buildings, with brick partition walls of one or more feet above the roof—60 cents.
4th Class —Houses or Stores, with brick or stone walls and wooden roofs, connected with other buildings, without brick partition walls—65 cents.
5th Class —Houses or Stores, of wood or plaster walls, standing separate from other buildings—70 cents.
6th Class —Houses or Stores of wood, connected with other buildings—80 cents.
Where buildings are occupied for hazardous trades, or for storing hazardous merchandise, the premiums are regulated by the materials of the buildings, their situation, and the purposes to which they are applied. Houses, &c. in the country, situated remotely from external hazards, are insured at reduced rates. All losses are paid by the Company in CASH, without any deduction, in thirty days after proof.
Per Order.
WILLIAM SCOLLAY, Sec'y.
U. S. Letters directed to the Secretary (Postage paid) will be duly attended to. FIRE OFFICE, No. 16, State-Street, Boston, 27th Dec 1798.

POETRY.
FOR THE GAZETTE.
MR. JENKS, If making better offers, to offer in the New Year, as I. G. A. Poland, Dec. 1798.
FOR THE NEW YEAR.
To God supreme in grateful lays, Let all mankind direct their praise With heart and voice sincere: May none withhold the just applause Due to the great benevolent Cause Of each revolving year.
Let's retrospect the later years Wherein alternate hopes and fears Affected ev'ry mind;— View then the modish claims of France High on ambition's wings advance, To subject all mankind.
Hark! from Batavia's marshy vale, What piercing moans our ears assail, Lamenting fore its fate: Her op'ence, freedom, and her fame, Are quenched by Gallia's spreading flame, Which threatens ev'ry State.
Venice, the Grifons, and the Swiss, Have tasted the infernal kiss Of French fraternal spite; And scarcely has the dire embrace, Of freedom left the smallest trace, Or one primeval right.
Now quit th' European crimson plains, Where horrid devastation reigns And peace withholds her smiles; Let's cast an eye on dearer home, And suffer not our thoughts to roam In quest of foreign wiles.
Within the late deceased year, What factions did our councils tear, Urg'd by th' intrigues of France! But "blest beyond a nation's fate," Columbia, destin'd to be great, Arrested their advance.
Near at the close of ninety-eight, Our cause was fix'd—our souls sedate, And ev'ry murmur hush'd; Save by a few contentious foes, Ingrates, who smile at all our woes, Whom reason hath not cruell'd.
Now hail th' effulgent dawning year, In which Columbia's sons appear, Determin'd, bold, and free— Long ere the annual circles close, May all internal dissensions cease Be drown'd in unity.
With Adams for our polar star, Great Washington our shield in war, And Hev'n on our side Who can molest our peaceful land? Now foreign fiend, nor heads at hand, With all their pow'rs ill'd
Be ninety-nine the grand epoch To rid the world of Gallia's yok And peace again restor'd: May ev'ry freeborn, gener'ous soul, Uniting, form one noble whoe T' exist till time's no more.
MISCELLANY.
PICTURESQUE DESCRIPTION OF MOUNT ETNA.
[From Spallanzani's Travels in the Two Sicilies.]
AFTER having, for two hours, indulged my eyes with a view of the interior of the crater, that is, in the contemplation of a spectacle, which in its kind, and in the present age, is without a parallel in the world; I turned them to another scene, which is likewise unequalled for the multiplicity, the beauty, and the variety, of the objects it presents.
In fact, there is perhaps, no elevated region on the whole globe which offers, at one view, so ample an extent of sea and land as the summit of Etna. The first of the sublime objects which it presents is the immense mass of its own colossal body. When in the country below it, near Catania, we raise our eyes to this sovereign of the mountains, we certainly survey it with admiration, as it rises majestically, and lifts its lofty head above the clouds; and with a kind of geometrical glance we estimate its height from the base to the summit: but we only get it in profile. Very different is the appearance it presents, viewed from its towering top, when the whole of its enormous bulk is subjected to the eye. The first part, and that nearest the observer, is the upper region, which, from the quantity of snows and ice beneath which it is buried during the greater part of the year, may be called the frigid zone, but which, at that time, was divested of this covering, and only exhibited rough and craggy cliffs, here piled on each other, and there separate, and rising perpendicularly; fearful to view and impossible to ascend. Towards the middle of this zone, an assemblage of fugitive clouds, irradiated by the sun, and all in motion, increased the wild variety of the scene. Lower down, appeared the middle region, which, from the mildness of its climate, may merit the name of the temperate zone. Its numerous woods, interrupted in various places, seem, like a torn garment, to discover the nudity of the mountain. Here arise a multitude of other mountains, which, in any other situation, would appear of gigantic size, but are but pigmies compared to Etna. These have all originated from fiery eruptions. Lastly, the eye contemplates, with admiration, the lower region, which, from its violent heat, may claim the appellation of the torrid zone; the most extensive of the three, adorned with elegant villas and castles, verdant hills and flowery fields, and terminated, by the extensive coast, where, to the
south, stands the beautiful city of Catania, to which the waves of the neighbouring sea serve as a mirror.
But not only do we discover, from this astonishing elevation, the entire massy body of mount Etna; but the whole of the Island of Sicily, with all its noble cities, lofty hills, extensive plains, and meandering rivers. In the indistinct distance we perceive Malta; but have a clear view of the environs of Messina, and the greater part of Calabria; while Lipari, the fuming Volcano, the blazing Stromboli, & the other Italian isles, appear immediately under our feet and seem as if, on stooping down, we might touch them with the finger.
Another object, no less superb and majestic, was the far stretching surface of the adjacent sea which surrounded me, and led my eye to an immense distance, till it seemed gradually to mingle with the heavens.
Seated in the midst of this theatre of the wonders of nature, I felt an indescribable pleasure from the multiplicity and beauty of the objects I surveyed; and a kind of internal satisfaction and exultation of heart. The sun was advancing to the meridian, unobscured by the smallest cloud, and Reaumur's thermometer stood at the tenth degree above the freezing point. I was therefore in that temperature which is most friendly to man; and the refined air I breathed, as if it had been entirely vital, communicated a vigour and agility to my limbs, and an activity and life to my ideas, which appeared to be of a celestial nature.
From the Salem Gazette.
Mr. Cushing, Amongst the patrons of French citizenship, such as were sent to Dr. Priestley, Thomas Paine, Mr. Wilberforce and some others, the national assembly sent one to the German poet Klopstock famous for his philanthropy. He saw the boasted French revolution in all its bloody colours, and returned the following answer:
The Poet Klopstock, to the National Assembly of France.
Moderators of the French Empire,
I SEND back to you with horror those titles of which I was so proud, while I could think that they united me to a society of brothers and friends to humanity. Alas! the deception is but too soon vanished away, and most afflicting reality is come, to put an end to a delusive dream. Alas! I had vainly imagined, that from the distant borders of the Seine that light should come, which would one day give an aspect to the happy reign of liberty amongst European nations.
Why have you deceived me? Your rights of man were only a snare laid to make Frenchmen full, that they might be the more easily assassinated. Learn, then, that the excess of your barbarism and of your crimes has placed an eternal barrier between you and the poets of happy Germany. When they are told those trivial adventures which disgrace your sanguinary history, they are enlightened and fly away. There is no connection now between us, you have broken forever the last of the bands which connected us together.
I pity those who call themselves citizen and who shed torrents of the blood of citizens. O crime! when they have shed blood they dance around their victim; they contemplate with a dry eye the last convulsion; they approach nearer to indulge their ears with the last groan.
Frenchmen, I turn away with affright from that impious troop which is guilty of all assassination, by looking on the peaceable witnesses of murder. I fly far off from the cries of that execrable tribunal which murders, not only the victim, but which murders also the mercy of the people.
SUICIDE.—The pleasantest way of making a quietus was the subject of dispute lately between a marine and a sailor. The first warmly contended in favour of a fuzee, which he said would in a moment discharge the weary traveller from the load of life. Well said honest Jack, give me the happiness to be tied fast to the lips of an 18 pounder; for then, with one salute, you are in heaven before the Old One knows that you are dead!
THE Standing Committee of the Society of Cincinnati, of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, agreeably to the votes of the Society—Hereby give public notice to such of their brethren, as are reduced to necessitous circumstances—the widow and orphans of others, who may be in like circumstances, that all applications for relief or assistance, may be made on, or before the 2d Tuesday in January next, to any individual of the said Committee, who will communicate the same, and their respective circumstances will be duly considered. The names of the committee are as follows, viz.
Gen. Lincoln, Dr. Eustis, Thomas Edwards, Esq. Gen. Jackson, Col. Winslow, Dr. Townsend, Col. Perkins, Maj. Gibbs, Capt. Clark, Capt. Johnson, Capt. Green, Col. Tudor, Robert Williams, John Galender, Capt. George, Capt. Foxe, Maj. Drew, and Samuel Armstrong, Recorder.
Boston, Nov. 28, 1798.
Cumberland County.
THE Collectors of the County tax, for the year 1798, are notified, that Executions will issue against all that are delinquent on the 1st of February next.
JOSEPH MLELLAN, Treasurer.
Nov. 23, 1798.
William Hudson,
Returns his thanks to the public for past favors, and informs them that he has removed to the NEW STORE at the head of Mr. IN GRAHAM'S Wharf, where he solicits a continuance of their commands, and offers for Sale,
AN ASSORTMENT OF W. I. Goods & Groceries,
AMONG WHICH ARE,
Allspice, Alum, Awls and Haws, An assortment of Crocker's Ware, An assortment of morocco cloth, and leather Shoes, for men, women & children, Brown Sugar, Butter, Black ball, Bellows, Bed Cords, Bindings, Brads, Brals and wood liquor Cocks, Coarse and fine Salt, Cast steel Bitts, with stocks Cast steel Chisels & Files; Candles, mould & dip, per box or lb. Chocolate, No 1 and 2, Cheese, Cotton, Coffee, Cart boxes, Cards, playing, Codlines, Cloves, Casks, Wool and cotton, Copperas Cinnamon, Chest and pad locks, Coke Soap, Cake Ink, Clo Limes, Eliot Snuff, English Mustard, Flour, Fish, Flint, Fustick, Fig, Fax, Florens Oil, Fgg tobacco, per cask or single pound, Flat irons, Fish Hooks of all sizes, Gamblets, Ginger, Glass, window, 7 by 9 and 8 by 10, German Steel, Gun Powder, Hard Soap, per box or lb. Hair Ribbon, Iron and blocktin Table & Tea Spoons, Ivory and Horn Combs, Iron Squares, Dividers India Sugars, Iron Shovels, Knives and Forks, Log Wood, Long and short Pipes, Men's women's, muffs & children's Ht, Molasses, Mace, Nutmegs, Netting Twine, Nails, 4d. 6d. 8d. & 20d, Oiled Umbrellas, Proof Glass, Poland Starch, Pen Knives, Pailboard, Pepper, Pils, Pigtail Tobacco, Paper, writing and wrapping, Pomatum, Powder Flasks, Raisins, Rules, Rice, Redwood, Rapper Snuff, Razors, Ra and Mouse Traps, Scissors, Segars, Siles, Shot of all sizes, Shoe brushes, Seves, Spanish, French and Carolina Indigo, Sewing Twine, Shaving Boxes, Sewing Silks, Ston Ware, Sand Stone, Smoking Tobacco, No. 1 2 and 3, Thumb Latches, Tacks, Tobacco Boxes, Tapes, Threads, Thimbles, Twists of all colours, TEAS—Hyson, Souchong and Bohea, of the best qualities, Vio in Strings, Webster's Spelling Books, Warming Pans, LIQUORS, Best French Brandy, Common ditto, W I and N E Rum, Hollands Geneva, Anniseed, Clove Water, Snake Root, Cherry Rum, Draft Porter, Vinegar, Medina, Sherry, Lisbon, Port, & Malaga, WINES, pure as imported.
Portland, Dec. 24.
TO BE SOLD, A small Lot of LAND,
fronting the COURT HOUSE, in PORTLAND. Seventy two feet square.—For particulars, inquire of the PRINTER.
Likewise, about 600 cwt. Rigging. At JACOB NOYES'S STORE. Dec. 24, 1798.
TO BE LET— OR SOLD ON GENEROUS CREDIT, A Convenient Tenement,
for a family, with a Shop in front; toge her with a garden, yard and convenient out house.—Situated opposite Market-square in this town.—Inquire of the PRINTER. Dec. 24.
20 Dollars Reward.
LOST, on the 27th Nov. on the road between the Southwest Bend in Durham, and Freeport Corner, ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY DOLLARS in Bank Bills and Nine Dollars in Silver. The Bills were tied up in a piece of writing paper with a twine string—the whole contained in a light coloured Jane purse—Any person having found the same, and will return it to the subscriber, shall be entitled to the above reward, and all necessary charges paid by me, JOHN CONVERSE. Durham, Dec. 17, 1798.
NOTICE is hereby given to the non-resident proprietors of lands lying in the town of Hebron, in the county of Cumberland, that their lands are taxed in the State, county, and town tax, for the year 1797, and committed to me the subscriber to collect, viz.
Table with 4 columns: No. acres, State tax, Town tax, D.C.M. It lists tax details for Jonathan Greenleaf, Esq., James Prescott Esq., James Northfield, and Jonathan Greenleaf.
Unless said taxes with intervening charges are paid to me the subscriber, on or before the twenty fifth day of March next, so much of said land will then be sold at public vendue at the dwelling house of Seth Bearse, innholder in said Hebron, at 10 o'clock in the forenoon, as will pay said taxes and charges.
BARTLETT HOLMES, Collector. November 19, 1798.
General Prices Current, PER QUANTITY.—BOSTON, DEC 29
Large table of market prices for various goods including Ashes, Bread, Butter, Beef, Beans, Brandy, Bees Wax, Cocoa, Coffee, Cotton, Chocolate, Candles, Cheese, Cod Lines, Fish, Flour, Feathers, Flaxseed, Glass, Grain, Hops, Hoops, Hogs, Iron, Lumber, Molasses, Nail Rods, Nails, Pepper, Pork, Pitch, Rum, Rye, Saps, Sugar, Salt, Steel, Tea, Tobacco, Wines, etc.
ALMANACK table for JANUARY showing days of the week and moon phases.
THIS GAZETTE, Is published every MONDAY, at E. A. JENKS'S OFFICE, Middle-Street, near the head of Fish-Street, PORTLAND—where Subscriptions, Advertisements, and Communications, are received with attention. * * * a price is ONE DOLLAR & FIFTY CENTS a year. Exclusive of Postage. * * * Punctual payments are requested. * * * The extensive and rapidly increasing circulation of THE GAZETTE, renders it highly advantageous for ADVERTISEMENTS, which will be inserted reasonably, and in a conspicuous manner.
PRINTING, In its various branches executed in the neatest manner, and at the shortest notice. * * * Orders for Books, Pamphlets, Blanks, Hand-Bills, Cards, Tickets, &c. duly attended to.