Alexandria daily advertiser (Alexandria [Va.]), 1808-01-16 00:00:00

Alexandria Daily Advertiser.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 1808.
[No. 2069.
V. VIII.
Sales at Vendue.
Every Tuesday and Friday WILL BE SOLD Vendue Store, corner of Prince and Water streets. A variety of Dry Goods, Groceries, &c particulars of which will be expressed in bills of the day—All kinds of goods which are on limitation and the prices of which are established, can at any time be sold and purchased at the lowest limitation prices.
P. G. Marsteller, v. m.
PROFILES, CUT AND FRAMED;
AND PROFILE LIKENESS'S DONE IN GOLD LEAF ON GLASS; NEXT door to Mr. I. ROBINS'S Store on King-Street, nearly opposite the Indian Queen Tavern. January 13. dif.
FOR SALE, Negro Woman, a complete House Servant. Apply to The Printer.
December 23. d
Wanted to Hire,
A NEGRO GIRL, from 12 to 16 years of age, of good character; for which liberal wages will be given. One from the country will be preferred. Apply to the Printer. d10t
January 5. d
TEN PIPES
Choice Cognac Brandy, 8 hhds. West-India Rum, 10 qr. casks L. P. Teneriffe Wine, 16 casks Rice, 135 shares Marine Insurance Stock, For Sale by Catlett and Fisk. November 19. d
WANTED
A middle aged woman capable of managing a house. To one of good character liberal wages will be given. Enquire at the Prince of Wales Tavern. Sep. 9. d
TO RENT,
and possession given on the 14th of November next, The three story Brick House on the corner of King and Columbia-streets, now occupied by Mr. John Roberts—For terms apply to Col. GEORGE DENEALE, living next door, or to the subscriber. Nicholas OSS, City of Washington, Oct. 20. dif
Nicholas OSS, City of Washington, Oct. 20. dif
JAMES SANDESON
Offers for sale very low, 25 hogsheads Muscovado Sugar, 70 bags green Coffee 15 hogsheads well flavored Rum 5 pipes Cognac Brandy 12 quarter casks Sherry Wine 2 bales Tennessee Cotton And as usual A general assortment of the best Wines, Spirits, Liquors, Teas and Groceries.
BRYAN HAMPSON
HAS FOR SALE. 16 pipes old port 5 do. Madeira 30 quarter casks Lisbon 12 do. particular Teneriffe 5 do. Malaga 15 pipes old cognac brandy 5 do. 4th proof Holland Gin 8 hhds. 3d proof Antigua rum 12 do. first quality molasses 6 do. green copperas do. alum 10 do. brown sugar 30 bags pimento 15 do. pepper 10 chests young hyson 10 do. hyson skin 5 do. imperial 100 bags green coffee 150 kegs madder 50 do. ground ginger 30 do. raisins 1200 lbs. bacon. well cured 5 kegs salt petre
A quantity of fine and ground alum salt. At all times he has the first quality flour for family use on hand—with a number of other articles—all of which he will sell low on his former terms. Aug. 21
WANTED, A steady, sober young Man as a Bar-keeper. APPLY TO THE
PRINTER.
January 12. 6t.
Broker's Office.
THE subscriber again tenders his service to the public, and will at all times be ready to make advances on deposits—or to procure cash for good paper—The strictest delicacy and secrecy may be relied on. A. IINDO, Broker. Dec 23. d
A. IINDO, Broker. Dec 23. d
WANTED,
A vessel of five or six hundred barrels, to take freight to Boston. APPLY TO
Lawrason and Fowle.
December 14. d
HEMP FOR SALE.
I HAVE on hand, ten tons of the first quality CLEAN COUNTRY HEMP, I wish to sell for cash, or on a time Bryan Hampson. December 30. d
Bryan Hampson. December 30. d
NOTICE.
I WISH to hire for the ensuing year, twenty able bodied NEGRO MEN, to be employed on the Little River Turnpike Road—Good usage, liberal wages, and punctual payment may be relied on. R. Ratcliffe, Agent for L. R. T. Company. December 30. d
R. Ratcliffe, Agent for L. R. T. Company. December 30. d
Public Sale.
TO BE SOLD, by public auction, on MONDAY, the 8th of January, 1808, if fair, if not the next fair day, pursuant to the last will and testament of Thomas Ludwell Lee, Esq. of town, (if not previously disposed of at private sale, of which due notice will be given— All the residue of
His Berry-Hill Estate,
Situate in the county of Stafford, containing three hundred acres or thereabouts. A considerable part of this land is excellent meadow ground, lying upon Potomac Run, and the remainder is represented to be good farming land, and well timbered. The terms are—One third ready money, the balance in equal payments in twelve and eighteen months.—A title will be made when all the payments are completed. GEORGE CARTER, FOR FANNY LEE, executrix of Thomas Ludwell Lee. December 15. dts
GEORGE CARTER, FOR FANNY LEE, executrix of Thomas Ludwell Lee. December 15. dts
Ten Thousand Dollars-worth
OF GOODS FOR SALE. Will be sold, to the highest bidder, on MONDAY, the first day of next February, in the town of DUMFRIES, at the store-house formerly occupied by Mr. JAMES MUSCHETT, deceased: about 10,000 dollars worth of GOODS tolerably well assorted. The said goods will be laid off and sold in parcels of from forty to one hundred dollars amount in each parcel. A credit of nine months will be given on one half of the purchase and fifteen months on the balance. the purchaser to give bond to carry interest from the date if not punctually paid) and approved security before the goods are removed. The sale of said goods will continue from day to day until the whole are sold. ALL PERSONS indebted to the firms of JOHN M. MUSCHETT and Co and JAMES MUSCHETT, senior, and Co and JOHN and CHARLES MUSCHETT and Co. are hereby notified and requested to come forward without delay and settle their respective accounts and pay off the same to the subscriber, who is fully authorised and empowered by JOHN MUSCHETT, the surviving partner in the aforesaid firms, to settle and receive all such sums; otherwise I shall be under the necessity of bringing suits against every person owing anything to said firms immediately, who is to comply with the foregoing request. All those who have claims against said firms will please to forward them to me as soon as convenient. John Linton, Attorney in fact for JOHN M. MUSCHETT. Dumfries, Dec. 9, [11] } dts
John Linton,
Attorney in fact for JOHN M. MUSCHETT. Dumfries, Dec. 9, [11] } dts
JOSEPH RIDDLE,
Has received by the ship William and John, from Liverpool, FALL GOODS. October 24. d
A Brick House for Sale.
THE Brick House occupied by Mrs. Nichols, on the north side of Prince street, between Fairfax and Water-streets, is offered for sale on a liberal credit. For particulars apply to John C. Vowell. ALSO, TO RENT, The House lately occupied by Mrs. Fitzgerald, situated on Water-street, having every convenience to accommodate a genteel family. Immediate possession may be had.—Apply as above. January 12. 6m
AUGUSTINE NEWTON,
King-street, nearly opposite to Morris's Tavern, HAS ON HAND, Old Cognac BRANDY, Maderia and London Particular Teneriffe WINES, Holland GIN, Rye WHISKEY and Barbadoes MOLASSES. TOGETHER WITH Brown, lump and loaf Sugars, by the barrel or smaller quantity; Young Hyson, Hyson and Imperial Teas; Coffee; Chocolate; Soap and Candles. With a general assortment of German, English and East-India GOODS. All of which will be sold wholesale and retail, at very moderate prices for prompt pay. A constant supply of FLOUR for family use, and an elegant REGISTER STOVE for sale. January 11. d
Joseph H. Mandeville,
KING-STREET, NEAR THE RIVER, Has for Sale, Muscovado SUGAR in hhds. and bbs. various qualities Loaf and Lump do. in bbs. 200 barrels inspected HERRINGS COFFEE in bags MOLASSSES in hhds. Imperial Old Hyson } TEAS Young Hyson, } Hyson Skin and } Souchong } Port } Madeira } Claret } Sherry } Lisbon and } Malaga } Cognac and Spanish Brandy } Jamaica } Antigua } Windward Island and } New-England } Rye Whiskey in barrels } Cherry Bounce in do. } Salt, coarse and fine } Pepper, Pimento, Snuff, Chewing Tobacco, Segars, Mould and Dipped Candles, Soap, Copperas, Madder, Wrapping Paper, Rice, Chocolate, Philadelphia Porter, Havana Honey. ALSO, A constant supply of nice Flour for family use. January 4. d
Twenty Dollars Reward.
ELOPED from the town of Alexandria, on Christmas day, A Negro Man named Ben, Belonging to Mrs. Fendall; AGED about 21 years, tall, straight and spare in his form, with hollow eyes, short nose, head long and projecting behind, full high forehead, a small scar on one of his legs, supposed the left leg; he is somewhat timid, answers quickly when spoken to and sometimes stammers a little, by trade a gardener, but he has been lately employed in Mr. Moore's sugar refinery in Alexandria, and it is probable can read and write. Had on and took with him a variety of clothing, which as well as his name, he will probably change. It is supposed he has taken the road to Baltimore. Ten Dollars will be given, if he is taken up in this neighborhood or the above reward, if more than twenty miles from Alexandria. Edmund I. Lee. January 4. d
ALMANACS for 1808
Just published and for sale by Cotton and Stewart. January 4. d
Notice is hereby given, To the Stockholders of the Bank of Alexandria, THAT an election will be held at the court house in this town on the third Monday in Jan. next, for the purpose of choosing nine Directors for the ensuing year agreeably to charter. By order of the President and Directors, Gurdin Chapin, Cashr. Dec. 16. 6t.
TO RENT,
A convenient two story Dwelling House and Store, situated on the corner of King and Fifth streets, lately occupied by Mr. John Ramsay. Apply to Eliza Wilson, or Robert I. Taylor. January 13. 6m
Public Sale.
On THURSDAY, the 21st instant, at eleven o'clock, will be sold on the premises Several valuable Lots Ground, situated on the corner of Fairfax and Duke-streets.—Terms will be made known at the place of sale. P. G. Marsteller. January 13. dts
TO RENT,
The three story Dwelling-House, Bake-House, Flour-Shed and Out-Houses, belonging to Thomas Crandell, deceased, situated on Union-street, between King & Prince-streets—Also, a House, Stable and Out-House, together with the Lot adjoining, situated at the West End, For further particulars enquire of Anthony Rhodes. January 13. d
Landing, this Day,
From Schooner Freighter Captain Thomas, from Portland, and for sale by Lawrason and Fowle,
10 tons St. Petersburg clean hemp 400 bolts Russia duck 50 do. Raven's do. 100 barrels New-England rum 30 do. tanner's oil 30 boxes mould candles 30 tons Plaster Paris 400 sides seal leather. IN STORE, 15 pipes Holland Gin 3 do. Bordeaux brandy 10 boxes mould candles 10 do. spermaceti do. 300 do. brown soap 70 do. chocolate 30 casks cheese 1000 sides seal leather 5 hhds. and 20 bbs. Mus. sugars January 13. d
Just Received,
Per the Schooner Jane, Captain Crocker, from Boston, and for sale by the subscriber, 8 puncheons Jamaica Spirits 6 barrels first quality Cheese 10 do. mens stout shoes 100 sides Seal Leather of extra nice quality 30 boxes dry Cod-Fish. Said Schooner Jane returns to Boston. For freight or passage apply to John G. Ladd. December 31. d
NOTICE.
ALL persons indebted to John Horner and Son and Horners and Piles, are desired to pay all accounts due to the above firms to Abel Janney as their agent, and his receipt shall be good against us; and he is hereby authorised to bring suits against all persons indebted to the above firms where necessary, and to collect the debts due us. John Horner, sen. John Horner, jun. Lewis Piles. January 7. d
Public Sale.
BY virtue of a deed of trust from Samuel Lattimer to the subscriber, for the purpose of securing the payment of a sum of money therein mentioned, to John Luffey, as security for said Lattimer to Isaac Polkins, by endorsement, will be sold, at public sale, at the market house square, for cash, on FRIDAY, the 22d instant, at nine o'clock, in the morning, a variety of Household & Kitchen Furniture, Goods, Books, &c as mentioned in said deed of trust and attached to the same. William C. Newton. January 13. d
William C. Newton.
January 13. d

CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
THURSDAY, DEC. 10.
DEBATE
On the bill from the Senate for making appropriation for building an additional number of gun boats, for the protection of our ports and harbors.
[CONTINUED.]
Mr. QUINCY said he had not intended to have taken any part in this discussion; but as his colleague had stated that the people of the northern states were favorable to this mode of defence, he should say a few words on the question. He would state what was the opinion of American merchants and seamen who were acquainted with this and other naval armaments, not only in Boston, but in New York and Philadelphia. He had endeavored to obtain correct information on the subject from the proper sources; and he had not yet seen the man of experience in naval affairs, who thought that these should constitute a principal part of defence, or who expressed a higher opinion of their efficacy, than that they might be useful in some places. The mode in which they were to be erected too, in great numbers, and to so great an extent as to exclude other means of defence, that excited the apprehensions of those opposed to them.
Mr. Q. said, he could state from as high authority as that quoted by his colleague, that seamen abhorred and contemned these boats; that it would not be possible in New York to man 60 gun boats, and that seamen would rather go and fight with muskets in merchants ships than serve in gun boats. And why? Because there was not room in them for seamen to sit upright; they were obliged to sit like dogs upon their haunches. He did not know this by actual experiment; but he had it from authority on which he could rely, that seamen could not be procured to man these boats. It had been said that they might get militia to go on board; Mr. Q. said, if seamen would not serve, surely militia would not stand it. Another reason against the use of gun boats was, that the men confined on the narrow decks were exposed so much to the fire of musketry; if ever they came within musket shot of their opponent, they were exposed to great danger.
The way to make seamen look danger in the face, was to bring them to close quarters with the enemy, not to suffer them to fight and run, fight and run again. Mr. Q. was surprised to hear his colleague dwell with so much satisfaction on the argument that these boats could get into shoal water and behind the points of land. He was afraid this might be thought to be the spirit of the northern people; the soil in which Preble sprang, did not produce men who would hide themselves when danger came; they would meet the enemy whenever he should come; they would fight at close quarters, and if the nation would not give them decks of their own on which to fight, they would find a way to fight on those of the enemy.
The misfortune of this system, in the mind of Mr. Q. was this: that the men whose spirit would induce them to serve their country, detested these boats. If men could consent to coop themselves in these cages like fowls fattening for the knife, their blood was so milky white, so thin, that they were not worthy the honorable trust of defending their country.
A great argument in favor of these boats had been urged, that they could attack at long shot, and with heavier metal than frigates, at the same time presenting but a small mark to their opponent. Would not the enemy, said Mr. Q. understand your machine as well as you do? If they know that you have nothing but gun boats, will they not bring against you other force than ships of war? A gentleman formerly in our navy, but lately from Jamaica, had assured him that every ship on that station carried four boats capable of carrying an 18 pound carronade each. Talk of fifteen men to each boat! If they came within reach of a ship, they would have 160 muskets at once opposed to them, and it would be a very unequal contest; they would be obliged to keep a respectable distance from any ship. It had been said that the navy of Great Britain was so powerful that the United States could never erect a navy sufficiently powerful to cope with it; if this were correct, the argument operated just as much against gun boats as against frigates or ships of the line.
It had not been his intention to have made many observations on the other mode of defence, by a navy; but since others had discussed the subject, he deemed it his duty to make a few observations. Did gentlemen seriously believe, that the country could exist one year in war without a navy? Shut up their seamen in port, and the clamors of the country would oblige the government to commence a naval establishment; and in two or three years of war, a navy would spring up—but of what kind? A navy of haste, constructed of ill-seasoned timber, and erected under all the inconveniences of war.
One observation he would make to correct the error of opinions entertained by southern and western gentlemen on this subject. Considering the nation in its national character, in the character in which all defensive measures must be adopted, he would ask those gentlemen if a navy was not a most important agent, not only for the protection of commerce at sea, but for maintaining a communication upon our shores? There was no knowing when the bolt of war would fall or where it would first strike. A navy would bring in the shortest time possible the strength of the north to the assistance of the people in the south, it was as a bond of union that Mr. Q. thought the U. S. should have a navy. In case of a war, in what way could the communication between the western and eastern ports be kept up but by means of a naval force? Such a force, and such an one only, could keep open the Mississippi.
There had been an objection raised to a navy that it would be impossible to protect our commerce in every ocean. This said Mr. Q. is going upon the ground that we cannot trust ourselves; that power when we have it must be abused; but we must trust ourselves, and not refuse to fulfil a beneficial purpose, because we might go too far.
If our navy when erected was confined, as he contended it ought to be, to the defence of our ports and shores, it would give it a great advantage over an opposing navy—over ships coming immediately across the Atlantic; as ours would be contiguous to a friendly shore, and would procure men and supplies whenever necessary, while the enemy is weakened by a long voyage, and at the same time on an hostile shore.
Under this view he considered a navy as necessary for the defence of the country, and the erection of a navy would ultimately prevail. He had not gone into the subject as thoroughly as he could wish, as he spoke on the spur of the occasion.
The house then adjourned. [Debate to be continued]
MINUTES.
FRIDAY, January 3.
The engrossed bill for continuing for a limited time (three years) the salaries of certain officers of government, was passed the third time 50 to 25.
The House took up for consideration the amendments by the Senate to the bill to extend the right of suffrage in the Mississippi territory.
One amendment to this bill requires an equitable freehold qualification for a voter. On this amendment some discussion took place; but it was agreed to. Messrs. Alston and Rhea opposed it on the ground that the house should pass no law permitting the contraction of the principle of universal suffrage. Messrs. Poindexter, Molden, Sloss and Smith urged an agreement to it, as without it the bill would not probably be passed by the other branch of the legislature. Mr. Bibb opposed the amendment, as he should oppose every amendment made to the bill, lest he might be thought to sanction it.
Mr. Troup said it was perfectly immaterial what qualifications were enacted, and he should not oppose this as the compact between the U. S. and Georgia was violated in legislating on this subject in any shape; they need not strain at goats when they had swallowed the camel.
The amendments being agreed to, the bill only awaits the signature of the president to become a law.
A message was received from the president of the U. S. inclosing the annual report of the director of the Mint; which was referred to a select committee, composed of Messrs. W. Alston, Updegraff, Maclay, J. Richards and G. W. Campbell, with instruction to report thereon by bill or bills.
A message was also received from the president inclosing an account of the expenditures from the contingent fund for 1807; by which it appears that of the sum
of 18,012 dollars 50 cents which remained unexpended at the close of the year 1806, 873 dollars 11 cents have been placed in the hands of the attorney general of the U. S. to enable him to defray sundry expenses incident to the prosecution of Aaron Burr and his accomplices for treasons alleged to have been committed by them, and the unexpended balance of 9273 dollars thirty nine cents is now carried to the credit of the surplus fund. The message was read and ordered to lie on the table.
On motion of Mr. Rhea the so much of the report of the post master general as relates to the salaries of the clerks in his office was referred to the committee of ways and means.
Mr. Basset moved that the house go into a committee of the whole on the standing rules and orders of the house.
On motion of Mr. Randolph this business was ordered to lie on the table.
On motion of Mr. Randolph that the house take up for consideration the resolution submitted by him relative to the conduct of brigadier general James Wilkinson.
Mr. Taylor said, before deciding on taking up this resolution now, he should be glad to know and rose to ask for information, whether the gentleman from N. Orleans had complied or intended to comply with the request of the house yesterday expressed.
The Speaker said he had not. The house agreed to consider the resolution 54 to 36.
Mr. Gardner said an order had yesterday passed the house requesting two members to lay papers and information before them on this subject. He would ask whether any information had been furnished by either of these gentlemen? If there had he should wish it to be printed for consideration.
The Speaker said the gentleman from Virginia had laid papers on the table, but the delegate from Orleans had not made any communication.
Mr. Clarke laid on the table a letter in Spanish from the Baron de Carondelet to Manuel Gayoso with a translation of the following extract;
TRANSLATION
OF AN Extract of a letter from the Baron de Carondelet, Governor of Louisiana to Dn. Manuel Gayoso de Lemos, Governor of Natchez, dated New Orleans, 27th April, 1796.
"Argote's letter cannot in my opinion have foundation, since the prince of peace tells me that in consequence of the treaty it is now useless to treat separately with Kentucky."
N. B. Argote was then Spanish consul in Kentucky.
Mr. Chandler wished to know if these papers contained all the information which could be expected from the gentleman from New Orleans in consequence of the resolution.
Mr. Randolph said the gentleman from Orleans did not appear to be in his seat at present, but Mr. R. presumed this was by no means all the information which was to be expected. It might be the only paper which the gentleman possessed on the subject, but if the gentleman's knowledge was so extensive as it was believed to be, the house would perceive that he could not have had time since the adjournment of yesterday to have reduced it to such a statement as might be necessary. Indeed the house met so early and sat so late, that if other gentlemen in the house had had the same feelings with him, they must be utterly incapacitated for business the remaining part of the twenty four hours. Mr. R. wished however to understand whether this was all the information in the gentleman's possession, and he had no doubt the gentleman would inform them.
Mr. Clarke said it was pretty well understood that was not the whole information he possessed, but if he were to give it otherwise than on paper, what he said would be liable to criticism or misquotation. Mr. C. said it would be proper for him to know whether he could adduce evidence in support of the information he might give, for he might otherwise be called a calumniator. It could not be supposed that he had with him proofs in writing on this subject. When he left home he had not expected to be called upon for evidence. He could state where evidence might be had and the persons who knew more than himself on the subject. If the house insisted, however, he would give what information he possessed.
A motion was made by Mr. Taylor that the resolution at present under consideration lie on the table; but which was afterwards withdrawn and renewed by Mr. Milnor.
A debate took place on the motion; Messrs Lloyd, Milnor and G. W. Campbell, and Messrs Crowninshield, Alston, Rowan, Findley and S. W. supported it, and Messrs Crowninshield opposed it.
Mr. Clarke now stated that he that he could prepare his information Monday.
This postponement was agreed to.
Mr. Crowninshield moved to discharge the committee of the whole from the further consideration of the resolution which he had respecting telegraphs, and to refer the solution to the select committee appointed on this subject. Agreed.
Mr. Holmes, from the committee of the whole, made a favorable report on the petition of Mary Barclay, which was referred to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Masters moved that the House take the amendments this day received from the Senate, to the bill supplementary to the laying an embargo.
Mr. Quincy moved that the consideration of the subject be postponed till Monday next. Negative. Ayes 20.
Mr. Quincy then moved a postponement to-morrow. As he did insist that the people should know who were in the habit of hurrying through business without consideration, he called for the yeas and nays upon the motion.
Mr. Newton said that he too wished to know who were in the habit of delaying business. That gentleman had taken up at least as great a portion of time in the discussion of the bill as any gentleman in the House. He hoped the House would not be trifled with in this way.
The motion for postponement was advocated by Messrs. Quincy, Livermore, Updegraff, Barker, Dana, Lyon, and Ely, on the ground that no time had been allowed to consider the amendments; and opposed by Messrs. Taylor, Newton, Basset, and Masters, for the reason that it was necessary to pass on this bill with all dispatch to secure more firmly the provisions of the former law—and negative by yeas and nays—58 to 39.
The amendments were then taken up and severally agreed to without a division.
The bill therefore only awaits the sanction of the President to become a law.
SATURDAY, January 6.
The Speaker laid before the house a report from the post master general favorable to the petition of Samuel Whiting—Referred to a select committee, with leave to report by bill.
Mr. Wilbour presented a petition from sundry citizens of Rhode Island, praying for the erection of a light house at point
Referred to the committee on commerce and manufactures.
Mr. M. D. Williams, from the committee to whom the subject was referred, reported a bill making further compensation to the marshals of the districts of North Carolina and New Jersey.
Read twice and referred to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Dana begged leave to state to the house a proposition which had for its object the encouragement and the security of the seamen of the U. S. by this expression he meant all who belonged to the national family, whether by birth or regular adoption. The proposition which he meant to offer contemplated a measure of permanent policy, to which the U. S. might adhere in either alternative of peace or war. The adoption of the measure could not interfere with any stipulation which might be made in any treaty between the U. S. and any foreign power, or with any negotiation pending or expected; it did not propose to renounce any claim ever made by the government of the U. S. It proposed no national degradation or acknowledgment of inferiority to any power whatever. Yet the proposition was of such a nature that he apprehended it would, if adopted, essentially diminish the range of controversy as respected seamen; and might be carried to such an extent as to annihilate it altogether. When he said this, he spoke as to those seamen who did in fact belong to the U. S. The proposition proposed a marked distinction between our own seamen and those who were aliens to our country and our laws, and gave a preference to our own over any other. It proposed that they should have better and more employment, that they should be known to a certainty and firmly protected. If he should be asked what this proposition was, it would be evident that it was a plain measure; it exhibited nothing of the magnificence of a learned and abstract disquisition; it was a proposition which addressed itself to the interest of the merchant to the heart of the American seaman. That the house might understand how it was intended to accomplish this object, he would call their attention first to the revenue laws, and then to the navigation laws of the U. S. It would be sufficient to observe, as far

...the revenue system, that the law of the U. S. marks a strong distinction between vessels of the U. S. and all others. The term vessel of the U. S. denoted a title to peculiar benefits and privileges, an exemption from the extraordinary duty on tonnage, and exemption from a duty of 10 per cent. on all articles imported, this being levied as a discriminating duty, in addition to the ordinary impost, on all goods imported in foreign vessels. This duty was nearly equal to the average expense of freight across the Atlantic, so that it gave a decided preference, and of course a greater employment to American vessels. It was proposed to avail ourselves of the principle for American seamen, making it requisite that a portion of the crew should be Americans, thereby ensuring them employment by this duty of ten per cent. to be incurred by the employment of foreign seamen in preference.
If the house would advert to the navigation law of the U. S. they would see how the principle recognized by that could be applied to American seamen. That act speaks of the qualifications which should entitle vessels to be named vessels of the U. S. The qualifications are three. The first, for the encouragement of American ship building, requires that a vessel shall be built in the U. S.—American construction. The next, that this vessel shall be owned by American citizens—American construction and American property. The next, that a vessel shall not enjoy the privilege of American vessels, longer than commanded by an American captain—American construction, property, & commander. These three qualifications were necessary for a registered vessel.
The addition which Mr. D. proposed to these qualifications, was, that these vessels should be navigated by a proportion of American mariners; this was the proposition which he should submit. As soon as the proposition was stated, its operation would be instantly seen. If it were adopted, American seamen would of course in preference be employed; it would give them a more comfortable means of subsistence. The merchant would be compelled to employ them if his vessels could not otherwise enjoy the privilege of American vessels; and all his exertions to procure American seamen would be more than compensated by the diminution of duty in consequence of their employment. It would then be the interest as well as duty of American seamen to point out impostors, as they might be kept out of employment by false swearing of seamen not citizens. In adopting this principle into our navigation law, Mr. D. felt perfectly willing to renounce the whole system of certificates and protections. He did not wish American seamen to carry protections while on board our ships; he wished that their being on board an American ship should be a sufficient protection; and if this peaceful means of protection will not answer, said Mr. D. let us take stronger measures. But in giving a man this protection with merely documentary proof, in giving him the complete protection of the American flag, it would be perceived that he would enjoy it so long as he was faithful to his duty. In order to entitle a vessel to the character of a registered vessel it would be necessary that it should appear that she had on board a proportion of American seamen. It would be a plain regulation, no acknowledgment of inferiority, and its adoption would not interfere with any existing treaty or negotiation.
There was a reason why he felt disposed to have this subject considered at the present time. The operation of the embargo would no doubt throw out of employment a great many seamen; among them might be foreign subjects. Thrown out of employment by the embargo, and a portion of them being called home by the proclamation of his Britannic majesty, Mr. D. should suppose it probable that foreign seamen might be induced to go into other service. He wished to hold out to American seamen, to our own citizens, the inducement of employment in preference to others, thereby giving them some cause to hope for brighter prospects and better times than the present. With these views he offered the following resolution:
Resolved, That for the encouragement and security of seamen of the U. S. it is expedient to make provision, that registered ships and vessels after a time limited by law, shall continue to enjoy the benefits and privileges appertaining to ships or vessels of the U. S. if a some proportion of the mariners on board the same shall be citizens of the U. S.
Mr. D. moved that it be referred to a committee of the whole on Wednesday next, that the principle might be fully discussed. Agreed.
Mr. Dana said it would be recollected that the secretary of the treasury had reported a statement of the tonnage in the U. S. this document he thought very interesting, and it might have an important bearing on the subject just referred. It was also important to know how many seamen were registered in the U. S. as American that the house might judge how the seamen were proportioned to the tonnage. He was not certain that the secretary of state could give all the information desired; but all that he had Mr. D. wished to procure, and therefore submitted the following resolution, which was adopted.
Resolved, That the secretary of state be directed to lay before this house a statement of the respective numbers of citizens of the U. S. States, registered as American seamen, and now belonging to the several districts of the customs, according to the returns made by the collectors, in pursuance of the law relative to the relief and protection of American seamen.
(Saturday's proceeding to be continued.)
Alexandria Daily advertiser.
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16.
An election was yesterday held for Directors of the Marine Insurance Company of Alexandria, when the following gentlemen were chosen:
John Hopkins, Wm. Wilson, Phineas Tanney, Jacob Hoffman, Cuthbert Powell, James Paton, James H. Hooe, James Russell, Benjamin Shreeve jr. Wm. Herbert, Wm. Hartshorne, Wm. Hodgson, Jonah Thompson, Charles Simms. Joe Riddle,
Mr. Giles, the senator from Virginia, has intimated, very publicly at Washington, that Mr. Rose will pay a very short visit to America.
A gentleman arrived at Boston who left Gottemburg on the 11th of Nov. informs, that it was reported and believed that no armistice had been settled between France and Sweden. English vessels had been ordered from Russia, and several had arrived at Gottemburg for freights.
We announce with pleasure, the arrival at New York, from Europe, after an absence of fifteen years from his native country, of Joseph Allen Smith, esq. brother of William Loughton Smith, esq. No Americans, we may safely say, few, if any Europeans have possessed such means and opportunities of viewing to advantage the various parts of the old world, as Mr. Allen Smith has enjoyed in his travels though out of the continent of Europe, and more particularly in his extensive range through the vast Russian empire, in Europe and Asia, in which he was accompanied by Russian officers of rank, specially sent for that purpose by the emperor Alexander, who lavished on our countryman (Mr. S.) the most distinguished marks of friendship and esteem. From St. Petersburg, where he resided a winter, Mr. S. travelled to Moscow, from thence he descended the Volga and the Don, to Astracan, visited the celebrated Mount Caucasus, the interesting borders of the Caspian and Euxine Seas, Georgia, Circassia, and Tartary; accompanied the Russian army in its campaign against the revolted Georgians; was at the storming and capture of Tiffis, the capital of Persian Georgia; passed through the Crimea; visited the Turkish empire; the Islands of the Archipelago; explored the superb monuments of antiquity in Greece; passed a winter at Constantinople, and returned by land to St. Petersburg.
Previous to this important and splendid tour Mr. S. had passed several years in visiting Italy, from whence he has enriched his native country with some beautiful productions of the arts; Germany, France, Holland, England, Ireland, &c. and had the peculiar advantage of residing in Paris, at the most interesting epochs of the revolution, during the reign of terror under Robespierre, and the reign of order under Bonaparte. It must be gratifying to Americans to know that wherever he went, by his elegance and urbanity of manners, and his extensive information, and manly sense, he immediately conciliated the friendship and respect of the most eminent personages, thereby enhancing the American character, and obtaining the means of still adding to his stock of information; from which causes, no man perhaps existing possesses so extensive and complete a knowledge as Mr. S. of the policy, views, and interests of the different cabinets of Europe.
With such means and advantages, it is ardently to be desired that this distinguished traveller may be persuaded by his friends
to publish the result of his researches and observations, with an account of the Russian dominions in Europe and Asia, which will undoubtedly be the richest and most authentic source of information concerning that vast empire, and one of the most useful and interesting works ever presented to the public.
[Charleston Courier]
A PATRIARCH. —Mr. O'Sullivan has recently died at Beershaven, at the age of 111. It is added that he is much lamented by 215 nephews and nieces! Certainly if this family be not of high rank or remarkable opulence, they are distinguished for their good breeding.
[Lon. pap.]
For the Alexandria Daily Advertiser.
THE PRESENT CRISIS.
SINCE the adoption of the federal constitution, our country has never been placed in a situation more critical than the present, it is encompassed by difficulties on every side.—Great-Britain, on one hand, viewing with jealousy the rapid increase of our commerce, wishes to diminish it by burthensome restrictions; and a variety of irritating circumstances have produced so hostile a temper in the two governments, that war seems by no means improbable. France, on the other hand, by her blockading decree, of November 1806, has grossly violated our neutral rights; and though that decree has herefore been but partially enforced, the French emperor seems at present determined to execute, as far as he is able, its most oppressive regulation. Rumor too, declares with all her hundred tongues, that Napoleon will have no neutrals, and that he is determined to hector us into a war with Great-Britain. If these reports be true, war is inevitable with one party or the other. Supposing then, that it is inevitable, we have at least the choice of our enemy. And which of them ought we to chuse?
No reflecting man who loves his country, would wish to see her engaged, at present, in a war with Great-Britain, if it can possibly be avoided with honor. The effects of it would be the bombardment of our towns on the sea shore the destruction of our widely extended and unprotected commerce, and the consequent failure of the revenue. Agriculture would languish, plenty would be succeeded by want and riches by poverty.
But other considerations oppose a war with G. Britain. She has long been struggling in the cause of liberty, and endeavoring to protect herself and the neighboring states from the tyranny of France. She strained every nerve to save the European republics from French domination. But her efforts were unavailing; they are all engulfed in the federative system, they all obey the commands of a tyrant. And let it be remembered, that without her assistance, our commerce, if not our liberty would a few years since, have been destroyed by France. Had it not been for her we might now be groaning like the republics of Europe, under a tyrannical despot. And shall we republicans assist that despot, that destroyer of republics, against the nation which has so bravely defended them? Shall we lovers of liberty, promote its final destruction, by aiding those who are endeavoring to drive it from its last asylum in the eastern world? Shall we assist these modern Romans, to prostrate the only power which can effectually oppose their schemes of universal conquest, vainly hoping that we shall escape in the general wreck of empires? If we do, long and bitter will be our repentance.
Assuming it as the foundation of our reasoning, that a contest, with one of these powers is unavoidable, we shall find that none of the arguments which oppose a war with G. Britain, are applicable to a contest with France. The French marine has been so completely crippled by the prowess of the British tars, that from it we have no bombardments to fear. If a French squadron escape by accident from any of their ports, its commander rejoices when he returns in safety, and relates his wonderful exploits, in eluding the pursuit of the enemy. By such a marine our commerce can be but little annoyed.—We should be deprived, it is very true, of all direct trade with a great part of the European continent, but we could trade securely to all other countries; whereas a war with Britain, would sweep our commerce from the ocean. By a contest with France, our agriculture would be injured but not ruined. We should be somewhat retarded in our progress to wealth & greatness, but the positive loss which we should sustain, would be comparatively small. Under every situation however we should be consoled by the idea that we suffered in the cause of liberty; that we were fighting the battles of freedom, against a nation which threatens to enslave the world; that we were avenging the fall of the European republics; that we were assisting the only free people besides ourselves in the civilized world, the people from whom we sprung, from whom we inherited our love of liberty, in a contest for their very existence, with the tyrants of Europe.
But if on the other hand, we engaged in a war with G. Britain, it is much to be feared that an intimate connection with France will
be the consequence. The friendship of that nation is ever more fatal than her enmity. Re-course need not be had to divination to foresee the consequences of such a connection. What has Spain, what has Holland, what has Switzerland gained by a French alliance? Or rather, what have they not lost? Have they not been dragged into every war in which a furious thirst for conquest has engaged the French nation? Have they not seen their resources exhausted in making conquests, of which they were not allowed the smallest share? Have they not been plundered, insulted and oppressed? Have they not been marked by the finger of scorn? Have they not in short been expunged from the list of independent nations?
No real American can think of a connection so debasing, without the utmost indignation. Better far that our country should sink into the ocean, than be reduced to a state like this. And towards such a state a war with G. Britain would advance us by rapid strides. Let America then, avoid it, as she would avoid dishonor, contumely and subjection. JUVENIS.
Lost or Mislaid,
A NOTE Negotiable at the bank of Alexandria, dated Dec. 21st, at sixty days for five hundred and seventy five dollars, drawn by Mr. James Russell in favor of Joseph H. Mandeville.
Payment is stopped and all persons are cautioned against receiving it. January 16. 3t
The Proprietor of the Alexandria Daily Advertiser, will dispose of the Establishment on moderate terms—there are now nearly six hundred Subscribers and the List encreasing—To a Person of Industry and Talents for conducting a Newspaper, this would be a desirable Situation. Circumstances beyond his Control render it necessary to make Sale, it will therefore be sold a great Bargain if application be made soon.
FIFTY HOGSHEADS Choice Jamaica Spirits, FOR SALE BY Callett and Fisk. January 11.
Twenty dollars reward.
RAN AWAY yesterday morning, a negro man named Charles Johnson, about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, very black, has a small scar on one of his cheeks; his legs are small for a person of his size: had on and took with him a grey coating roundabout lined with flannel, and trousers of the same, a black coat & an old grey great-coat, with a variety of other cloathing not recollected. Five Dollars will be given if taken in the county, or the above reward if out, and reasonable charges if bro't home.
Lawrence Hooff, Sen. Masters of vessels and others are cautioned against harboring or carrying him off, December 26
RAILS WANTED.
The Subscriber wishes to purchase about two thousand Chesnut or Oak RAILS, to be delivered at his farm on Cane-ran.
J. H. HOOE, Jan. 15. 2aw.
Dissolution of Partnership.
THE partnership heretofore carried on in this place, under the firm of Roberts & Griffith, ceased by its own limitation on the 31st ult. As it is necessary to close the business of the concern with all convenient dispatch, all persons indebted to them are requested to make speedy payment to John Roberts, who is authorised to settle the affairs of the partnership, and by whom the business will in future be conducted.
John Roberts, Samuel G. Griffith. January 4. ed1w&law4w
NOTICE.
THE subscriber having qualified as executor to the estate of Col. Thomas Blackburn, deceased, respectfully requests those who have claims against the estate, to lodge them properly authenticated, in the hands of Robert I. Taylor, of Alexandria, or John H. Peyton, of Dumfries, attorney at law, who will forward them immediately to the subscriber.
Those persons indebted to the deceased, will please make payment to either the above mentioned gentlemen, or
T. Blackburn. Rippon Lodge, Jan. 8.