Virginia Argus (Richmond, Va.), 1807-01-27 00:00:00

VIRGINIA ARGUS.
[XIVth YEAR.]
A FREE PRESS MAINTAINS THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE PEOPLE.
[No. 1333.]
RICHMOND:—PRINTED (ON TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS) BY SAMUEL PLEASANTS, JUNIOR, PRINTER TO THE COMMONWEALTH.
[Four Dollars Per Annum—paid in Advance.]
TUESDAY, JANUARY 27, 1807.
[12 1-2 Cents Single.]
RICHMOND PRICE CURRENT.
   CORRECTED WEEKLY.     Tobacco, $ 6 00 CASH.   WHEAT, 1 17 do.   FLOUR, superfine, 6 25 do.   FLOUR, fine, 5 75 do.   CORN, 5 00 do.   Hemp, clean, (per ton) 186 67 do.   Iron, 120 00 do.   Bacon, none. 00 do.   Pork, 6 00 do.   Whiskey, 58 do.  
Virginia:
At a Court held for Halifax county, the 22d day of December, 1806.
Granville Craddock, plaintiff against Daniel Wilson, Obadiah Smith and Henry Ligon, defendants.
The defendant Daniel Wilson, not having entered his appearance and given security according to the act of Assembly and the rules of this court, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that he is not an inhabitant of this state: On the motion of the plaintiff by his counsel, It is Ordered, that the said defendant Daniel Wilson, do appear here on the fourth Monday in March next and answer the plaintiff's bill; and that the defendants Obadiah Smith and Henry Ligon do not pay away, secrete or otherwise dispose of any monies, goods or effects which they may have in their hands belonging to the defendant Daniel Wilson, until the further order of this court; that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in some one of the newspapers published in the city of Richmond, for two months successively, and posted at the front door of the courthouse of this county.
A copy, Teste, JOHN BARKSDALE, D. C. H. C.
Virginia:
At a Court held for Halifax county, the 22d day of December, 1806.
George Calhoun, plaintiff against Daniel Wilson, Obadiah Smith and Henry Ligon, defendants.
The defendant Daniel Wilson, not having entered his appearance and given security according to the act of Assembly and the rules of this court, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court, that he is not an inhabitant of this state: On the motion of the plaintiff by his counsel, It is Ordered, that the said defendant Daniel Wilson, do appear here on the fourth Monday in March next and answer the plaintiff's bill; and that the defendants Obadiah Smith and Henry Ligon, do not pay away, secrete, or otherwise dispose of any monies, goods or effects which they may have in their hands belonging to the defendant Daniel Wilson, until the further order of the court; that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in some one of the newspapers published in the city of Richmond for two months successively, and posted at the front door of the courthouse of this county.
A copy, Teste, JOHN BARKSDALE, D. C. H. C.
FOR SALE,
A LIKELY, YOUNG AND VALUABLE
House Servant,
OSTLER AND CARRIAGE-DRIVER. Virginia Bank Stock, or approved Notes or Bonds, due or to become due before the 20th of next month, would be received in payment.—Enquire of the printer.
Richmond, Jan. 21, 1807. 3t
Land & Negroes for Sale.
By virtue of a deed of trust executed to me by Thomas Randolph, to secure the payment of a debt due Isaac H. Coley, I will sell, to the highest bidder, for ready money, at the dwelling house of the said Thomas Randolph, on Monday the 16th day of February next, one hundred and fifty acres of LAND, lying on Appomattox river, in the county of Amelia, being a part of the land on which the said Thomas Randolph now resides, and known by the name of MORRIS. Also NINE NEGROES, viz. Ned, Jesse, Kitty, Alexander, Dandridge, Spencer, Sukra, Richard and Caroline, or so much of the said property as will be sufficient to discharge the debt mentioned in the deed.
J. COLES, Jr. January 23d, 1807. 1d$
THE FIRM OF
J. Joseph & Co.
HAS this day dissolved by mutual consent—all persons indebted to the late firm are requested to make payment to Mr. L. Joseph, who only is authorised to receive the same, and grant receipts.
J. Joseph. Wm. Warner. Richmond, Jan. 12, 1807. 5t
FOR SALE AT S. PLEASANTS' BOOK STORE, HENING'S
New Virginia Justice,
Containing the Duties of a Justice of Peace, &c. together with a variety of useful precedents, adapted to the laws now in force. Also, forms of conveyancing, such as Deeds of bargain and sale, lease and release, mortgage, trust, &c.
FROM THE AMERICAN CITIZEN.
COMMUNICATION.
Of the English navy.—The boasted navy of England has been the ruin of England. This may appear strange to a set of stupid fools who have no more foresight than a mole under ground, or they would not abuse France as they do; but strange as it may appear, it is nevertheless true, and a little reflection on the case will shew it.
The expense of that navy is greater than the nation can bear; and the deficiency is continually supplied by anticipation of revenue under the name of loans, till the national debt, which is the sum total of the anticipations, has amounted, according to the report of the chancellor of the exchequer to the English parliament the 28th of last March, to the enormous sum of 603,924,000 pounds sterling; and the interest of the debt at that time was 24,900,000 pounds sterling.
What are called loans are no other than creating a new quantity of stock and sending it to market to be sold, and then laying on new taxes to pay the interest of that new stock. The persons called loaners, or subscribers for the loan, contract with the minister for large wholesale quantities of this new stock at as low a price as they can get it, and all they can make by retailing it is their profit. This ruinous system, for it is certain ruin in the end, began in the time of William the third, 118 years ago.
The expense of the English navy this year, as given by the chancellor of the exchequer last March, is 15,281,000 pounds sterling, above sixty eight millions of dollars. The enormous expense of this navy, taken on an average of peace and war, has run the nation into debt, upwards of five millions sterling every year for the 118 years since the system of what are called loans began. And it is this annual accumulation of more than five millions sterling every year for 118 years, that has carried the English national debt to this enormous sum of 603,924,000 pounds sterling, which was the amount of the debt in March last.
If it be asked what has this mighty navy done to balance this expense? It may be answered, that comparatively speaking, it has done nothing. It has obtained some victories at sea, where nothing was to be gained but blows and broken bones; and it has plundered the unarmed vessels of neutral nations, and this makes the short history of its service.
That the English government does not depend upon the navy to prevent Bonaparte making a descent upon England, is demonstrated by the expensive preparations that government puts itself to by land to repel it. And that the navy contributes nothing to the protection of commerce is proved by the fact that all the ports on the continent of Europe are shut by land against the commerce of England. Of what use then is this navy that has incurred such an enormous debt, and which costs more than sixty-eight millions of dollars annually to keep it up, which is three times more than all the gold and silver that the mines of Peru and Mexico annually produce. Such a navy will always keep a nation poor. No wonder then that every seventh person in England is a pauper, which is the fact. The number of paupers, now is 1,200,000.
Another evil to England attending this navy, besides the debt it has incurred, is that it drains the nation of specie. More than half the materials that go into the construction of a navy in England are procured from Russia and Sweden; and as the exports of English manufactures to those places are but small the balance must be paid in specie. If Bonaparte succeeds in all his plans I hope he will put an end to navies for the good of the world.
COMMON SENSE.
It is an unalterable and wise law in nature, that all organized bodies are constantly approaching dissolution. But the duration of life differs.—Previous to death animals and plants are subject to similar diseases. Too great a degree of heat and cold, want of superfluity in nourishment or motion, has on both the same influence. The plant droops its head and looks sickly, if it is in want of earth, of air, or humidity; and the animal cannot live in similar situations. Different kinds are subject to the influence of different accidents. Leaves, blossoms, fruits, germs, rinds, have their peculiar diseases and pernicious insects: they, the same as animals, if the wound is not mortal, are assisted by nature and art. At last old age approaches, and with its companions, decay and death. The organs become hard and inflexible; the fluids do not circulate as rapidly as in the state of growthfulness; they stagnate, and the plant goes to decay. And so in animals does infancy, youth, puberty, weakness, beauty, fruitfulness and decline, succeed in different gradations. And what else is man but a plant? He is engendered, is born, grows to maturity, blossoms, bears fruit, decays, and dies. Weak and tender in infancy, beautiful and strong in youth, cold and relaxed in old age! Some decay like rose buds, before they bloom; others die like old aged oak trees. The head bends down, the sources of life dry up, and plants and animals return to the dust whence they had originated.—The soul only survives these changes of matter. BURKHARD.
(By Authority.)
AN ACT
Making appropriations for the support of the navy of the United States, during the year one thousand eight hundred and seven.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That for defraying the expenses of the Navy of the United States, during the year one thousand eight hundred and seven, the following sums be, and the same hereby are, respectively appropriated, that is to say:
For the pay and subsistence of the officers and crew of the navy, two hundred and ninety-six thousand and forty eight dollars:
For provisions, one hundred and twenty thousand eight hundred and fifty dollars and three cents:
For medicines, instruments and hospital stores, five thousand dollars:
For repairs of vessels, one hundred and ninety thousand two hundred and eighty dollars, and sixty seven cents:
For freight, store rent, commissions to agents and other contingent expenses, seven hundred and fifty dollars:
For pay and subsistence of the marine corps, including provisions for those on shore, and forage for the staff, seventy eight thousand six hundred and seventy eight dollars and thirty cents:
For clothing for the same, fourteen thousand three hundred and sixty dollars:
For military stores for the same, five hundred and sixty dollars:
For medical services hospital stores, and all other expenses on account of the sick belonging to the marine corps, one thousand one hundred and fifty dollars:
For quartermaster's and barrack master's stores, officers traveling expenses, armourer's and carpenter's bills fuel, premium for enlisting, musical instruments, bounty to music, and other contingent expenses, eight thousand one hundred and forty five dollars:
For the expense of navy yards, comprising docks and other improvements, pay of superintendents, store keepers, clerks and labourers, sixty thousand dollars:
For ordnance, fifty thousand dollars.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the several sums herein specifically appropriated shall be paid out of any monies in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
NATHL. MACON, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. January 7, 1807. APPROVED, TH. JEFFERSON.
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
FRIDAY, January 16.
Debate on Mr. J. Randolph's Resolution, calling on the President for information, &c.
(Continued.)
Mr. CHANDLER said he had the honor to be a member of the committee alluded to by the gentleman from Virginia, and he believed from the propositions that were made by him he was the member referred to. He believed he had made a proposition in the committee to augment the number of the present forces by adding to each company such a number of men as would enlarge it to an hundred instead of eighty. He made this proposition, because from the extension of our territory he thought it necessary, and because he thought by thus adding to the number of our troops, without increasing the officers, the public would be as well served without incurring the expense attending the creation of additional officers. He believed the proposition went farther, and authorized the President to raise a certain number of troops, provided the public good in his opinion required it. He presumed however that the secretary of war had never known that such a proposition was made or intended to be made, and much less had sanctioned it by his opinion. Mr. Chandler said he barely mentioned this circumstance, to show that the secretary of war did not communicate information in this way.
Mr. ALSTON believed that no man in the House was more disposed than himself to receive any information from the executive government, that would enable them to take the necessary steps against foreign or domestic enemies. But where did they meet with any grounds to justify the opinion that a foreign attack was meditated? The contrary was his opinion. He had heard of no circumstance which justified the belief of such an attack being meditated, particularly by Spain on the west side of the Mississippi. What was known on this subject? That the commanding officer on the part of the U. S. and Spain had agreed not to violate the intervening territory, until fresh information was received from their governments. There was no ground therefore to believe that an attack would be made from that quarter. On the contrary, if newspaper information was to be credited, the attack was to be from our own territory and was contemplated against that very nation. If this were true what right have we to believe in a foreign attack from any other quarter? Did evidence exist in the hands of the executive of any such foreign attack being contemplated? If so, is there not the strongest reason to believe that we should have received information of it without a demand? Let any gentleman examine this subject, and say if it is not wise to leave the business where it now is. Whether the measures adopted at the last session, or those which were proposed, were
the best, it is not, said Mr. Alston, for me to say. Time will determine. But this I may say; if we had then passed an act for raising a few regiments, there would not have been one of them by this time on the Mississippi. We might have got, as heretofore, a regiment of officers, but there would have been no regiments of men.
We have been further told of the policy of taking a manly attitude against Spain. We had a resolution offered to us, which in my opinion amounted to a declaration of war—not merely for defending the country on the frontier, but for carrying on a war against Spain. What was the situation of the country when this resolution was submitted? Defenceless indeed—We might have acted here, but Spain would have acted there. If the persons alluded to by the gentleman from Virginia are now in a combination with Spain, might they not have also been in a combination then, and had we assumed a hostile attitude might they not have acted with more effect than they can now? There is not a doubt in my mind, that as soon as it is proper, information will be laid before us without calling for it. If such a resolution be carried to the President he will deem himself bound to communicate the whole information in whatever terms it may be couched. I have no apprehension and feel no dread of any force that can be brought against us in the Western country. Our force there will be able to cope with any that shall be embodied against the U. S. and the moment the man at their head shall declare himself hostile to the union, the very forces which he has raised will turn their bayonets against him; they will desert him. If this is all the ground that can be assigned, I think it best not to carry this resolution immediately to the President. In a few days we shall probably receive another western mail, and if the information then received shall not be satisfactory, or serious danger appears to exist, we may call for that information which is not now necessary.
Mr. J. CLAY said this was the first time that he had ever heard it stated that newspaper information was proper for legislative action. For this reason we are to wait, it seems, until we get two or three more newspapers from the western country. He would ask if there were ideas so strange submitted to a legislative body? He said, he knew that it was very fashionable for the majority to express a full confidence in the executive magistrate; but he would ask whether this was a correct doctrine? The constitution vested the important power of declaring war in the two branches of the legislature. When, therefore, the peace and safety of the country were placed in the hands of the two Houses, did it contemplate that in the exercise of these powers they should depend on newspaper information? The gentleman says, if he had passed a law for raising additional troops at the last session, we should not have got the troops by this time. Mr. C. said this was the first time he had ever heard delay assigned as a sufficient reason for omitting to do any thing. The gentleman says we have every reason to believe that Spain entertains no hostile intentions towards us. But take the gentleman's own source of information, the newspapers, and we have every reason to believe, that from the year 1783, that government has been in a conspiracy against the peace and unity of the U. S. We know with what determination the minister of Spain, in 1783, endeavored to make our ministers accede to a more limited boundary of the U. S. than that established by treaty. Spain has never lost sight of this object, and sometimes by fair and sometimes by foul means has continued to pursue it.
What is the object of this resolution? We find that great alarm exists, particularly on the Atlantic board. We find gentlemen from the westward either ignorant, or pretending to be ignorant of the existence of any thing alarming. Under these circumstances the House are without official information. We are told that because we have confidence in the executive, we ought to rely on his giving us information as soon as it is proper. Mr. C. said he would submit whether this comported with the dignity of a representative, and whether it was proper for him to depend on newspaper information.
Mr. Alston said that all he had observed in relation to newspaper information was in reply to what had been said on this point by gentlemen on the other side.
Mr. J. CLAY resumed his remarks; but after uttering a few words, declared himself too unwell to proceed, and sat down.
[From the severe cold with which he was apparently oppressed, we with great difficulty collected his remarks, which are probably but imperfectly given.]
Mr. BURWELL said, on attending to the resolution, he thought it one that was highly expedient to be adopted at this time. He viewed it as a call upon the executive for true and precise information of acts and measures on which the peace of the union, perhaps, depended. It was perfectly immaterial to him whether Spain, England, or France should be implicated in the information given; whether the whole or a part of these nations were combined in the project. It was sufficient for him that the peace of the country was threatened, that the minds of our citizens were alarmed, and that this was the only branch of the government competent to preserve the peace of the country, and tranquilize the public mind. It was clear that danger did exist; that the peace of the country was threatened by a lawless banditti, whose object was to violate the laws of the country, and to dismember the union. It was important to know the extent of these measures, that
the legislature might be enabled to do what steps it was proper to take to guard against them. There was a time, Mr. B. said, when he should have been opposed to such a resolution. That time was when the executive was endeavoring to gain information calculated to throw light on the plot; but that time had passed by. All those engaged in it must by this time be completely enlisted and embarked in it, and nothing which the executive shall now disclose could extricate them from being secured and punished as they deserved. If a resolution were laid on the table for an enquiry into the nature of the plot, as that might place the men concerned in it on their guard, he should be opposed to it. But was it not known to every gentleman, that the plan was so far matured that the information could not reach the conspirators in time to prevent its execution. Suppose the executive shall state to us, that certain individuals were implicated. Can that enable them to elude punishment? No, they are fully embarked, and nothing remains for us to do, but to take such measures as the case requires. Another advantage would result from the resolution. Suppose the executive to have taken every necessary measure, and I believe, said Mr. B. that they have to defeat these projects, what will be the consequence? Will not this information tend to tranquilize the mind of every man in the country. Mr. Burwell said he repeated, that it was because he had confidence in the executive magistrate; because he wished for true and full information on the subject, because the disclosure of persons implicated could do no mischief, and because an official statement would tranquilize the public mind, that he was in favor of the resolution. For his part, he was ready to say that if the executive gave information that required an augmentation of our forces, he was prepared to give him the necessary means for defending the country, under the impression that it was the duty of every member to protect the Union from internal injury or foreign danger.
Mr. MASTERS—Mr. Speaker. From the best information I have been able to obtain, the conspiracy is yet progressing with increased ardor and zeal.
If there was no conspiracy existing, and not a conspirator in the United States, I believe it high time to pursue more energetic measures for the safety, security and honor of this nation, and at least be prepared to act. Has not the government of Spain refused to ratify her solemn treaty, and for several years manifested hostile intentions towards the American nation, and actually put her troops in motion to invade our territory? Has she not refused to recall her minister, who has repeatedly insulted the nation, and whose recall has been demanded by the executive? Does she not continue to procrastinate and delay the pending negotiation, probably with a view to see the result of our negotiation with G. Britain, and stimulated by France to view that negotiation with a jealous eye, as tho' there were secret instructions to operate to her disadvantage, or some other pretence for aggression?
When the committee reported the bill to authorize the president to accept of volunteers, I must confess I was astonished, because the report contained no clause for raising regular troops. I therefore called on the committee, to know if that was the only measure contemplated by the committee. If it was, I thought it very inefficient in the present state of affairs, both internal and external. I obtained no direct answer, but was informed it was only a report in part.
I wish to get the necessary information from the executive, and to pursue active and efficient measures, and not drink of the cup of national degradation.
Mr. SMILIE. We have had such a picture drawn of our situation, that I am willing to go any proper length. But I am surprised to hear such a representation made, as would lead us to believe we were on the eve of a war. If this representation be founded, it appears that certain persons have been perpetually intriguing, and have only waited for an opportunity to strike the most deadly blow. For one, however, I shall be indisposed, as I always have been indisposed, to go into measures of a warlike character, without the most sufficient reasons. Indeed my opinion is, that while the country is in a state of safety, we never should commit it to the horrors and hazards of war. On either side we have nothing but newspaper information with regard to the representation that has been drawn. We know, however from a different source, that a negotiation has been for some time depending with Spain; that that negotiation is not terminated; and that the troops of Spain, as well as our own, are on the frontier; and the commanders of those troops have made an agreement not to disturb each other until they shall have received special instructions. Does this look like being on the eve of a war with Spain? Surely not. And if not, why this extraordinary anxiety, on this occasion? I do not like the resolution, for this reason—it bespeaks a want of confidence in the executive. Congress have the power to declare war, and to provide the means for carrying it on—when provided, it is the constitutional duty of the executive to conduct it. Now, have we not already provided, or are we not providing all the means that have been required? Do we doubt the capacity of the executive to judge of the means that are necessary to be given, or of his using them properly? Is it to be presumed that if the President thought it necessary to apply for further means, he would not have done so? Nobody can hold this opinion,

who does not doubt the integrity or the capacity of the President. It is his duty to do this, and if he has not done it, we must consider him either incapable of judging what is necessary, or as guilty of something worse.
An allusion has been made to the measures of the last session. It is regretted that the gentleman from Virginia, that his opinions were not adopted; and he thinks he has a right to triumph, because the measures, which he then recommended, are now found necessary. Suppose the same measures should now be necessary, which he then recommended—which, however, I am far from admitting—are the circumstances of the country the same? It will be recollected that one of the purposes for which that gentleman wished troops to be raised, was to chastise Spain. I was not of opinion that it was then necessary to chastise Spain; and I am still of opinion that it is not necessary to chastise her. Another reason has been assigned by that gentleman for those measures—it seems those measures would have prevented this internal conspiracy. It does not, however, appear, that we knew of the existence of, or foresaw any conspiracy, or had any expectation of such a thing; nor did the gentleman himself apprehend or predict it. If he had entertained such opinions, it would certainly have been kind to have told us so. If, then, every thing on this subject was so vague, are we to be told that it was necessary to raise troops to guard against a conspiracy that might happen seven years afterwards? In my opinion we ought not to have raised additional troops the last year, nor ought we to raise them this year, so long as things remain as they are. At all events, I will never give my consent, during a time of peace, to raise additional troops, unless necessary for garrison duty. I believe the militia and volunteers are abundantly sufficient for all exigencies. I will however say this, that if it should be considered necessary, from the extension of our territory, to raise a few additional troops, for garrisoning our ports, I do not know that it will meet with my opposition. But as to raising additional forces, with which to go to war with Spain, I have no idea of it; and as to raising troops to crush any conspiracy that may exist, or be apprehended, I see no necessity for it. It is remarkable, that we should entertain any opinions in favor of such a measure, when the President, on whom the great responsibility rests, does not consider it necessary.
Mr. S. repeated his surprise at the alarming picture which had been drawn of our situation, and his opinion that no necessity existed to adopt the resolution at this time. If he believed the President inadequate to the performance of his duty, he might be the more ready to accede to it; but, believing him fully competent, he should vote against it.
Mr. HOLLAND. This appears to me to be a very improper course. The President has not ventured to tell us what measures he has taken, and what measures he hereafter intends to take, to suppress this conspiracy. This seems to me extremely objectionable, and may go to defeat the very end intended to be answered by obtaining the information desired. Where is there any necessity at all for this measure at this time? Is it not the duty of the President to give us such information at all times as the exigencies of the country require? And have we not reason to repose confidence in the executive? If we have, this resolution is altogether useless. We have been told by the gentleman from Virginia, that if the measures recommended at the last session had been adopted, he thinks it would have been much better for the country, and that all kind of danger would have been removed. I, however, am one of those who do not possess that confidence in a regular establishment, which the gentleman from Virginia possesses. Nor have I any apprehension for the peace and safety of the country. I have reason to believe that there are some desperate characters engaged in disturbing the peace of society; but I confide in the integrity of the people; and I believe the strength of the militia will always be found competent to the exigency. If I have any fears, they do not arise from the want of a regular establishment. The larger that establishment the greater his fears. If any fears are to be entertained, in my opinion they ought to be fears of the disaffection of the army. I hope, however, that we have no grounds for fears at present on this head. But if there should be any such disaffection, I believe the energy of the people would be sufficient to resist it, would be sufficient to resist any danger from within or from without. Thinking differently from the gentleman from Virginia, and that the safety of the country does not consist in the extent of our military establishment, I am for taking different measures. I am against extending the army, but, in favor of organizing the militia, in such a way as to render it efficient. I am, however, hostile to the adoption of this proposition. The gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Burwell) has remarked that the time has come when we must safely adopt the proposition. That gentleman may have information which we do not possess, that may induce him to form this opinion. But from the information I possess, I think differently. I believe the President will communicate to us all the information that is necessary and proper for us to possess, and his not having communicated it in this instance, is conclusive evidence to my mind of the impropriety of asking it. (Debate to be continued.)
A message was received from the Senate, stating that they had passed the following bill.
A BILL Supplementary to an act, entitled "An act fixing the military peace establishment of the United States." Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That in addition to the present peace establishment of the United States, and as a part thereof, the President of the United States be, and he is hereby authorized to raise one regiment of infantry and one battalion of cavalry; and the said regiment of infantry shall
consist of the same number of commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates as are directed by the act to which this is a supplement. And the said battalion of cavalry, shall consist of one major, and one adjutant, one quarter master, and one pay master (each being a lieutenant,) one surgeon, and four company commanders; each company of one captain, one lieutenant, one cornet, one sergeant major, one quarter master sergeant, one trumpeter, four sergeants, four corporals, one farrier, one sadler, and sixty-four privates: And shall moreover at the discretion of the President do duty either on horse or on foot.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted. That the President shall be, and he is hereby authorized in all cases of imminent danger, when in his opinion the defence or safety of the United States shall require it, to increase the number of men in each company of infantry on the peace establishment to one hundred privates.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted. That suitable clothing be provided for the cavalry, adapted to the nature of their service, and as near as may be of the value of the clothing allowed to the infantry and artillery.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted. That the commissioned officers, non-commissioned officers, musicians, and privates, by this act directed to be raised, shall be entitled to receive the same pay, emoluments and bounty, as are allowed to the troops now in the service of the United States, and they shall be governed by the rules and articles of war, which have been, or may be by law established.
The House adjourned at half past five o'clock. Other business was transacted which a want of room prevents us from noticing to day.
FRIDAY, January 16. An engrossed bill, authorising the President of the U. S. to accept the service of a number of volunteer companies not exceeding thirty thousand men, was read the third time, and passed without a division.
An engrossed bill supplementary to the act entitled, "An act making provision for the redemption of the whole of the public debt of the U. S." was read the third time. Mr. J. Randolph called for the Yeas and Nays.
Mr. Alston said he should have contented himself with giving a silent vote on this bill, but for the call of the Yeas and Nays. Having been required, he deemed it his duty to assign his reasons for voting against the bill, which he should do, although he should stand alone. He knew no advantage that could accrue to the U. S. from the passage of the bill. What did it hold out? The opening of a new subscription to all the persons holding evidences of the existing public debt. Were the U. S. to be benefited by this modification of the present debt, or were they in the least interested in it? It was clear that they were not interested; for if they were, the keen speculator would never come forward to subscribe. For therefore, the sole purpose of expediting the payment of the debt, the government were about to make a sacrifice to the holders of the public debt. Who were those holders? Men who had already preyed on the interests of the nation. Mr. Alston said he considered this as neither more nor less than a second assumption system, pursuing the same tract pursued by the first act making an assumption of debts. This was a measure giving this description of people who had speculated on the imports of the country, another advantage. It held out a strong invitation to every citizen of the U. S. or of a foreign nation, to subscribe to the new loan, by giving them nine per cent. more than the value of their stock twelve or fifteen months ago. Of this he had evidence—and that at that period there could not be more than 56 per cent. got here or at Philadelphia for three per cent. stock. The bill therefore gives the holders of this stock nine per cent. on their capital. It was for this, as well as for many other reasons, that he should vote against the bill. He did not believe that the situation of the U. S. was such as required such a precipitancy in paying off the debt. No man was more disposed than he was to discharge the debt fairly and honorably; but he was not for doing it in such a manner as to promote the advantage of the holders of the present paper of the U. S. Mr. A. repeated that he considered the bill exactly in the same light with the assumption bill passed a long while since, and that it ought to be denominated an amendment to that law, instead of the act to which it purported to be a supplement.
Mr. J. Randolph observed that to him nothing was plainer than that where two individuals stood in the relation of debtor and creditor, new arrangements of existing debts due from one to the other might be made to the mutual advantage of both. At present the commissioners of the Sinking Fund were authorised to purchase old six per cents, and deferred stock at their nominal par value—that is, at the rate of one hundred dollars in specie for one hundred dollars stock and those stocks were every year partially reimbursed at this rate. The only good, therefore, that the provisions of the bill could do the holders of these species of stock would be that the government would pay them at the same rate that they were now paying them, and at which they had made purchases as fast as they could. So much for this part of the bill.
With regard to the provisions relative to three per cents. Mr. R. said he would state a plain fact, that would come home to the simplest understanding possessed by any member of the committee. A farmer owes his neighbour a thousand dollars, for which he had given his bond, bearing an interest of three per cent. He has it in his option, to pay it off for 650 dollars. Now, do you think there is a provident farmer in the U. S. that would hesitate to discharge the $1,000 by paying 650 instead of suffering the 1,000 dollars to rest as a burthen on his children, or a lien on his estate? This is the plain question. Do the House think it most for the advantage of the estate of the good people of the U. S. to pay off this stock at the rate of 65 per cent. or let it remain a perpetual incumbrance on the nation; and is it not self evident that an arrangement may be made between the public and its
creditors, as well as between two individuals, to the mutual advantage of both? The question was then taken on the passage of the bill—Yeas 12—Nays 13.
MONDAY, January 19. Mr. J. Randolph from the committee appointed to carry to the President the resolution of the house adopted on Friday, stated that the committee had performed that service, and had received for answer from the President, that he would cause the information requested, to be laid before the house.
Mr. Quincy presented the petition of James Sullivan and others, claimants of certain lands ceded to the U. S. by Georgia, requesting that the tribunals of the U. S. may be authorised to try the question of right to the lands.
Mr. Quincy moved a reference of this petition to a committee of the whole house. Mr. Eppes spoke against the reference. Mr. Quincy replied.
The question was taken on referring the petition to a committee of the whole, which was disagreed to—Ayes 41—Nays 54.
Mr. Quincy then moved its reference to a select committee.
Mr. D. R. Williams hoped this motion would not prevail, and that if it did not, that the petition would be rejected.
Mr. Quincy withdrew his motion, that the question might be taken on the proposition to reject the petition, which Mr. D. R. Williams then offered.
Mr. Quincy called for the yeas and nays on this motion.
Messrs. D. R. Williams, Eppes and J. Clay supported; and Messrs. Conrad, Cook, Alexander, Sloan, Smilie and Quincy opposed the motion which was disagreed to—Yeas 53—Nays 56.
Mr. Quincy then moved a reference of the petition to a select committee.
Mr. Quincy advocated; and Messrs. J. Clay, Smilie, R. Nelson and Eppes opposed this motion, which was likewise disagreed to—Yeas 45—Nays 65.
Mr. Holmes, from the committee of claims, made an unfavorable report on the petition of Jonathan Snowden, which was made the order of the day for Wednesday.
Mr. Alexander submitted a bill prescribing the effect of records of judgments and decrees of courts of justice in one state in another state, which was referred to a committee of the whole on Thursday.
Mr. Rhea of Ten. offered the following resolution:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire into the expediency of laying off and describing by certain metes and boundaries a tract of country to which the Indian title has been extinguished, within the limits of the territory of Louisiana, and to include all the settlements within the said territory, and for having the said tracts of country laid off into townships and sections, half and quarter sections, agreeably to the several laws heretofore made for surveying the public lands of the U. S. and also to enquire into the expediency of granting one quarter section to every free male white, who now resides therein, or who within two years shall actually improve and reside thereon.
Mr. Conrad said, before he agreed to the resolution, he would be glad to hear the reasons for this new mode of disposing of the public lands.
Mr. Rhea said he did not suppose that on referring this subject it would have been necessary to assign the reasons for the measure. But as they had been called for, he would state some of them. It was well known that the settlements in the territory of Louisiana were scattered—that they were two or three hundred miles apart. If the Indians should become hostile in that quarter it would probably cost the U. S. more to protect those settlements than the value of the land it was proposed by the resolution to allow to settlers. The object was to effect a settlement that would prove a strong barrier, and avert the necessity of maintaining a standing army. The lands on this side of the Mississippi, it was well known, from their subjection to Indian claims, would not probably be settled until a distant day; and this produced a necessity for forming settlements on the western side of that river.
Mr. Smilie believed this was a measure that would be attended with great benefits to the U. S. As the motion was merely to refer for the purpose of enquiry, he hoped it would not be opposed.
Mr. Varnum was of opinion that even if this measure should be ultimately considered advisable, this was a very unseasonable time for its adoption. He was not of opinion that any considerable force could be bro't to bear on the frontier thus proposed to be guarded. It would be remarked that it was not contemplated for the defence of the Orleans, but the Louisiana territory: And he asked whether it would be proper to adopt it while such various reports prevailed of the existence of conspiracies against the U. S. in the western country. Might not the individuals engaged in these combinations, on their discomfiture and return into the U. S. under this measure, occupy the lands thus proposed to be surveyed.
Mr. Rhea declared himself greatly surprised at the suggestion of the gentleman from Massachusetts. As to the suspicious affiant, he hoped they would have no influence on the adoption of this measure.
Mr. Gregg hoped, as the resolution contemplated an almost radical change of the land system, it would be suffered to lie for consideration.
Mr. Rhea acquiesced in this course. The bill, from the senate, supplementary to the act fixing the military peace establishment of the United States, was read the first time.
Mr. Eppes moved to reject it. On this motion a debate of about 2 hours ensued.
Messrs. Eppes, Varnum, Smilie, G. W. Campbell and Bedinger supported; and Messrs. Lyon, Tallmadge, Early, Findley, Gregg, Cook, Elmer, Alexander and Th's Moore opposed the motion—which was disagreed to—Yeas 26—Nays 93.
The bill then had a second reading, and was referred to a select committee composed of Messrs. J. Randolph Chandler, Dickson, Gregg and Van Cortlandt.
WASHINGTON CITY, January 21. We have the pleasure of announcing the arrival of Capt. Claire in this city.
We have perused a letter from New Orleans, dated December 18th, which contains the following interesting circumstances. Gen. Wilkinson on appearing before the court, on a writ of Habeas Corpus, issued for the body of Dr. Bollman, made an exposure to this effect, in the presence of a large concourse of people.
Called to account for an act in which I glory, and for which I trust my own country will thank me, I shall meet the consequences with the applause of my own breast, which I prize more highly than the huzzas of thousands, or the popularity of the whole world. But when I cast my eyes on the movers of this prosecution—My bosom is rent by a conflict of emotions—sorrow for their depravity—charity for their sympathies—surprise at their indiscretion, and astonishment at their audacity. I would to God I could here close the proceedings of this day. But my honor, my duty, and the safety of the state forbid me—It is time an universal alarm should go forth, to rouse the good citizen to sense of his danger. The deceitful calm must no longer be suffered to impose on us a treacherous security. Nor shall the artifices of the confederates be longer employed to cheat the public judgment. Treachery is in the midst of us—treason stalks abroad—and the friends of Burr and rebellion, whilst they ridicule our apprehensions, and scoff at our preparations, with trembling solicitude implore his speedy arrival, to reward them for their apostasy, and to rescue them from the goadings of guilt and the terrors of impending punishment.
After this address Gen. Wilkinson charged Livingston and Alexander with being parties to the conspiracy.
The effect produced at New Orleans, by this disclosure is said to have been very striking. Considerable scepticism previously existed of the reality of the plots ascribed to Burr; but after this exposure, a general and even ardent disposition was excited, vigorously to maintain order and support the government.
* It is understood that an allusion was here meant to Messrs. Livingston and Alexander.
COMMUNICATION.
The following is a copy of the return made by General Wilkinson to the writ of habeas corpus issued at N. Orleans for the body of Doctor Erick Bollman, and in his address to the court on the occasion, the General denounced the two lawyers * who had procured the writ as parties in the conspiracy. It appears that young Swartwout delivered General Wilkinson the original of the letter, which gave him full and complete information of all Burr's plans, and Doctor Bollman presented the copy—Swartwout was seized and is now under guard on his way to Baltimore. Bollman has arrived at Charleston under the care of Lieut. Wilson, of the artillery. Had Congress suspended the habeas corpus act, all the conspirators at New Orleans would have been seized, and many traitors might have been secured in different parts of the Union. Young Ogden, who accompanied Swartwout, was seized, but obtained a habeas corpus, and was released. He is now at large.
* Messrs. Livingston and Alexander.
The undersigned, commanding the army of the United States, of the United States, takes on himself all responsibility for the arrest of Doctor Erick Bollman, on a charge of misprision of treason, against the government and laws of the United States, and has adopted measures for his safe delivery to the executive of the United States. It was after several consultations with the governor & two of the judges of this territory, that the undersigned has hazarded this step, for the national safety menaced to its base, by a lawless band of traitors associated under A. Burr, whose accomplices are extended from New York to this city. No man can hold in higher reverence, the civil institutions of his country than the undersigned, and it is to maintain and perpetuate the holy attributes of the constitution, against the uplifted hand of violence, that he has interposed the force of arms in a moment of extreme peril, to seize upon Bollman as he will upon all others, without regard to standing or station, against whom satisfactory proofs may arise of a participation in the lawless combination.
JA. WILKINSON. Head Quarters. Army of the United States. New-Orleans, Dec. 17th, 1806.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman of the first respectability to a member of Congress, dated Knoxville, (Ten.) 29 Dec. 1806.
"I believe this place is not the seat of any combination to deprive the people of their government—nor is it the theatre of any preparatory arrangements to attack any foreign power—but rumor at this period sounds aloud from the west—A few days since Col. Burr was at Nashville. Arrangements were made at Nashville for descending the river with a number of provision boats, said to be intended to accompany Burr in his unknown expedition. Last evening a man arrived from Nashville, who says Mr. — is going, and several others. Application had been made to Capt. — to descend as a pilot—he refused unless he was informed of the place of destination, he could not receive that information, and was not employed at least so said my informant.) A few days since I saw a major—from St. Lewis, on his way to the city. I am well satisfied from information received from him of Burr's guilt.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman of the highest respectability resident in Knoxville, (Ten.) to a member in Congress, in this place.—The writer left Knoxville on the 1st, and his letter is dated Lexington, Virginia, 11th January, 1806.
"Much interest has been excited by the conspiracy of Burr and others. I suppose you are in possession of more facts than I am, as to its object, extent, &c. The people of E. Tennessee almost unanimously exclaim against the characters w., are so lost to virtue and patriotism as to engage in any scheme of the like kind. A separation of the union, which is supposed to be immediately and ultimately in view, is de-
precatd by every man (two or three excepted) in E. Tennessee. By the latest intelligence I possess, his military preparations for attack on any part of Mexico or any other part, are entirely frustrated. The capture of the boats, &c. on Ohio has certainly given him a fatal blow. He was in Nashville from early in December till after Christmas, his head quarters, (if he had any) during that time were at —; during his stay there Mr. —, captain—and some others were engaged in his party; a number of other young men of the vicinity of that place were to have partaken of his fortunes; but at the crisis of his departure many of them shrunk from the undertaking—on my way from Knoxville I saw Mr. A.—directly from Nashville—he told me he saw Burr on Christmas day at —'s (near Nashville) and that on the next day he descended Cumberland river in a boat—that a son of col. —'s was of his party—that young H. — was to have gone, but on the moment of departure, he declined—that Mr. H. — afterwards, and that he procured from him information, that the point of destination and attack, was a rich Spanish town, from which was expected considerable plunder.—Mr. — was to follow Burr in a few days with the other boats,—four in all were what he heard of going from that place—that an express or message had been dispatched to the Ohio—of the time when he intended to start, and probably where he desired them to join him at the mouth of Cumberland.—It is probable he had not then known of the capture of his boats on the Ohio.
N B. Mr. A. and Mr. H. are respectable characters, whose veracity may be relied upon.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Kentucky to his friend in this city, dated Dec. 23, 1806.
Formerly the people were prohibited from settling on the unappropriated U. S. land where the Indian claim had been extinguished, until the sale was made. And in some instances compulsory measures were used against the sovereign people to keep them within prescribed limits. The thing is now entirely changed—they are settling in all directions. Several families are on the Cherokee land, having settled previous to the running of the line—thus the sovereign people enjoy an uncontrolled liberty, and in a short time will be able to free the administration of the burthen of selling.
Notice.
This day, by mutual consent, the copartnership of JOHN & GEORGE ROWLAND is dissolved. All those indebted to said concern are requested to make immediate payment, as no indulgence can be given—and those having claims are desired to call on John Rowland, who will settle the business of the concern.
JOHN ROWLAND. GEORGE ROWLAND. Richmond, 25th Jan. 1807
FOR NEW-YORK, The Sch'r. Active, HASSUM, MASTER. Part of her freight engaged. For the balance enquire of the Capt. on board at Lester's Lower Wharf or SHAPARD & LOCKE. Jan. 25, 1807.
WILL be SOLD, for Cash, on the twenty fourth day of the present month, at the house of Robert Draffen.
A tract or parcel of Land, containing by estimation seven hundred and twenty-two acres, the same more or less, being the tract of land on which the said Draffen now resides, and adjoining the lands of George Dovers, Thomas Garth, sen & c. lying on the waters of Ivory creek in the county of Albemarle—Also two NEGRO MEN Sancho and Squire twelve head of Cattle, five head of Horses, fifty head of Hogs and five Feather Bed and Furniture; conveyed to me in trust by said Robert Draffen, to secure the payment of a debt due from Brown, Rives & Co. and for other purposes, as in said conveyance expressed—Being only interested as trustee for the benefit of others, will only convey title to said property as trustee.
Fleming Turner, Trustee. Milton, January 1st. 1807.
*P Owing to the advertisement above, not having appeared in the newspapers three weeks previous to the day of sale, agreeable to the requisitions contained in the deed, the sale of the above property, is postponed (land, negroes, &c) and will certainly take place on Tuesday, the twenty fourth day of February next, at the house of said Robert Draffen, on the terms above mentioned.
Fleming Turner, Trustee. Milton, 24th January, 1807.
WILL be SOLD, for Cash, on the twenty-third day of the present month, at the house of John Mullens, jr.
A tract or parcel of Land, being the tract on which the said Mullens now resides and adjoining the lands of Bazel Brown, James Harrison, &c. supposed to contain two hundred acres, the same more or less, conveyed to me in trust by said John Mullens, jr. to secure the payment of a debt due from Brown, Rives & Co. as in said conveyance expressed—Being only interested as trustee for the benefit of others, will only convey title to said land vested in me as such
Martin Dawson, Trustee. Milton, January 1st. 1807.
Sale of above mentioned tract of land, by consent of parties, postponed till 23th day of February next—on which day, it will certainly take place at the house of said John Mullens, jr.
Martin Dawson, Trustee. Milton 23d Jan. 1807.
Notice.
THE subscriber requests all indebted to him by bond or on open account, to discharge their respective debts. This notification is given in consequence of his declining the mercantile business in Manchester, and intention to remove; therefore the necessity of an immediate compliance with it by those who wish to avoid law suits.
COLIN MACRAE. Manchester, 19th Jan. 1807.
Blank Bills of Lading
For sale here.

It appears that the political campaign has at length commenced in Congress, and Mr. John Randolph, notwithstanding the expectations which were entertained of his changing his course, appears to be actuated by the same principles which governed him at the last session. In the speech which he delivered on the 16th inst. there appears to be the same spirit of insinuation against the President of the United States, and of accusation of the other members of Congress for neglect of duty, which was exhibited in his eloquent but acrimonious harangues heretofore. He still contends for the propriety of the measures proposed by himself during the last winter, insisting that the government at that time ought to have taken a "manly and decisive attitude towards Spain, and instead of pen, ink and paper, to have given men and arms; that, if such had been our policy, not only Spain would have been overawed, but those domestic traitors would also have been intimidated and overawed, whose plans threatened to be so dangerous."—Would any man, says he, have dreamt of descending the Mississippi at the head of an unprincipled banditti, if New-Orleans had been fortified, and strong fortifications erected in its neighborhood?
To observations and questions of this kind the best answer is, that the propriety of measures is to be tested by their own intrinsic wisdom, and the state of affairs at the time when they were adopted, not by events which have happened since, and which none but a prophet divinely inspired, could have foretold. We will ask Mr. Randolph, if he could himself have dreamt last year of Burr's conspiracy? A project so wild and chimerical was not to be expected; and, if we are always to raise troops to guard against such astonishing enterprises, as occur only once in an age, and enter into the heads of such extraordinary men as Aaron Burr, and Bonaparte, the necessary conclusion is, that we ought to have a standing army continually kept on foot in times of peace. As we still conceive Mr. Randolph to be an honest republican, although one misled by vanity and prejudices, we suppose that he is himself of opinion that such a standing army would be dangerous to liberty, and ought therefore to be avoided. Of course, as his argument leads to a result, which his own principles would disapprove, he must admit that the argument itself is erroneous.
"What, says Mr. Randolph, did we then hear? Money; dollars and cents!"—Granted. But was it not wiser and more economical to endeavor by an offer of a reasonable price for a disputed territory, our title to which Mr. Randolph himself has asserted to be doubtful, to put an end to the dispute, and prevent the unnecessary effusion of human blood; which ought never to be resorted to until all the means of accommodation consistent with our national rights and interests have been tried in vain? At the time when money was voted to purchase the Floridas, it could not be predicted with any certainty that the negotiation would fail; and, at any rate, it was better to show a noble example to the world of a sincere attachment in the representatives of America, to the interests of their constituents, and of their contempt of the bloody code of European honor?—The character of a duelist, who is ready to fight on every slight provocation, is not respectable among individuals, and is truly horrible and detestable among nations. The majority of congress at the time alluded to, were determined to avoid the imitation of such a character; but it does not follow that they were wanting in true bravery, and firmness, or that, if they should now be driven into war, their conduct in endeavoring to avoid it as long as possible was therefore reprehensible.—With many weak and ill-judging politicians, success is considered as the only criterion of measures; but rational men will always be of a different opinion. If our endeavors to avoid war, and the long train of miseries which are its inseparable concomitants, are finally unsuccessful; if foreign tyrants or domestic traitors will not permit us to be at peace; it will be a great advantage to have enjoyed that blessing hitherto, and to reflect that we have postponed the evil day of our country as long as it was in our power.
But Mr. Randolph insinuates, though he does not directly assert, that the President has withheld the proper information too long from congress, relating to Burr's conspiracy. Certainly, very good reasons might be imagined, and, no doubt, will appear to have influenced the President in not suddenly making public all the information which he had received on that dark and complicated subject. It might have been hitherto improper or dangerous to make known the names of many who were implicated, until sufficient evidence of their guilt should be procured, or steps taken to arrest them and to prevent the success of their projects. The President has now made, as we have heard, a communication to congress, in reply to their request, in which he has furnished a full account of all matters relating to the conspiracy. Nothing therefore need be said about any neglect of duty on his part.
As to Mr. Randolph's accusation against all the elder members of the federal family "sleeping, snoring and dozing over their liberties, while the youngest (by which it is presumed the state of Ohio was meant) has acted with a promptitude and decision that does it great honor, and has been found to be the first to ward off the impending danger;"—we will content ourselves with observing that, the conduct of the state of Ohio was indeed truly honorable and patriotic; but so also has been that of Kentucky; and we firmly believe that every state in the union, if its situation had been similar, would have manifested equal zeal and alacrity.
We have been furnished with the first number of "The Atlantic World," a paper edited at the City of Washington, by the famous John Wood, who formerly was induced by Aaron Burr to suppress his "History of the Administration of John Adams;"
who was afterwards reconciled to him (or what dower or other consideration induced, we cannot tell) and vindicated his character, federal principles, and the pretended "union of honest men," for a long time, in the Virginia Gazette. This worthy personage is found next in Kentucky, publishing a newspaper entitled the "Western World," and assuming the extraordinary profession of a general denouncer of conspiracies. He therefore accused Gen. Wilkinson, and many other respectable characters of Kentucky, and of other states, as being connected with his old friend Burr in a dreadful conspiracy to sever the western country from the union. The event has proved that Wilkinson is a faithful friend of his country, and that Burr is the arch-traitor, standing at last unmasked. Yet, after all his denunciations against Burr, he adhered to him in the trying time of danger and difficulty, and declared to the federal court that he believed him innocent. His young coadjutor, Joseph M. Street, proving to be more honest than himself, he forsook him, and escaped to Washington, where he is now the flaming advocate and doubtless the tool of Aaron Burr. The paper of such a man, devoted to such purposes, we hope will be consigned to the contempt of all good men.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Washington City, to the Editor, dated January 23d, 1807.
"Swartwout and Bollman were brought here last night, and are now in custody at the marine barracks, from whence they will be taken by the marshal to-morrow, under a warrant from the Bench of the Court of the Territory now in session here. The warrant did not issue to-day, because the court, doubting about the nature of the crime, adjourned to consider, altho' apparently resolved as to process. Some think the armed assembly at Bladensburg's island was an overt act of treason; in which by Wilkinson's deposition, there men were concerned. The Senate sat late with closed doors. The rumor was that they were debating on the suspension of the habeas corpus privilege, and had already agreed on a bill, having dispensed with their usual forms of proceeding. The House of Representatives however adjourned at 4 o'clock and until Monday, of course the measure cannot be adopted sooner. It is by no means necessary at present, I should suppose, altho' it is evident now it may at times be thereafter. It is said that two more prisoners, Ogden and Alexander, are on their way from New-Orleans, the former having been again arrested. Swartwout and Bollman were brought directly up the Potomac, an officer of the army having been dispatched from Baltimore in a pilot boat to meet the vessels, which fortunately arrived together, in 24 hours after the pilot boat sailed."
VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE.
HOUSE OF DELEGATES.—Jan. 1807.
Speech of Mr. MILLER (of Northumberland) on introducing the address to the President of the United States, requesting him to serve another constitutional term.
MR. SPEAKER—I rise to call the attention of the house to a subject which I deem of considerable importance to our country. When it is recollected that the term for which the chief magistrate of the U States hath been elected, will soon expire; it becomes necessary for us to make the enquiry, What citizen will it be proper to select to fill the presidential office for the next term? Two characters have been mentioned in the public prints, who would probably be brought forward as candidates for that high office.—I confess that I should be satisfied with Mr. Madison as president, and I confess that I should be satisfied with Mr. Monroe as president; but, under existing circumstances, I must declare that I prefer Mr. Jefferson to either of them. It is known, that very serious differences have taken place between this country and Spain, respecting the boundaries of Louisiana. These differences have arisen during the administration of Mr. Jefferson, and in consequence of the purchase of that territory. It is fair therefore that his administration should continue until these differences are brought to a termination favorable and honorable to the United States.—At least a full opportunity ought to be given to him for accomplishing that desirable object. And I should be sorry for any reasons, that the two gentlemen, whom I have mentioned, should be brought forward as rival candidates at this time.—There are as yet many federalists dispersed throughout the union. Serious apprehensions of danger are entertained from the disturbances in the west; and dissensions exist even among the republicans themselves. This would be a contest, not about political principles, but between persons who have espoused the same principles. What might be the result of the contest, it is impossible to foresee: but it would afford too much cause to fear that the differences of opinion, which now exist, and which in themselves are but trivial, might be increased to a dangerous magnitude. Such an event is at all times to be deprecated, but more especially so at the present. At this time republicans ought to be united. I am decidedly in favor of such measures as will tend, most likely, to produce conciliation. With these impressions operating upon my mind, I feel the fullest conviction, that a correct policy dictates to us the propriety of addressing Mr. Jefferson upon this subject, for the purpose of requesting him to serve us for one term more. I shall not attempt to pass any eulogium upon the character of this pure patriot and enlightened statesman. His character is known to us all. Indeed the address which I shall propose contains in it the highest eulogium. But permit me to enquire why Mr. Jefferson has declared his intention to retire from office at the expiration of the present term. The answer must be obvious to every impartial mind. His sole object is to reduce into practice those principles to which he has often avowed his attachment. He has avowed his attachment to the principle of rotation in the presidential office, and he has proven the sincerity of his attachment by his conduct. If gentlemen
believe that Mr. Jefferson has pursued this course with a view to gain additional popularity; or if they believe that he harbors in his bosom one spark of ambition, they will not vote for the address. But this cannot be believed by any one.
I am as friendly to the principle of rotation in office as any member of this house, or as any citizen of the commonwealth. But the present case, in my judgment, not only justifies, but requires a departure from the general rule. We ought always to search into the intention and motives of men, for by them must their conduct be judged. And, in every rational view of the case, the honest intention of Mr. Jefferson to go out of office is equal to an actual absence from office. Those who are disposed to oppose this address, may say that this distinction is too nice, and that this reasoning cannot be understood; but they deceive themselves, it will be understood; and the address carries with it its own justification.
Addresses similar to this have already been presented from several other states, and from many parts of the country. And should we adopt this it is probable the example will be followed by almost all the states in the union. If however, Mr. Jefferson cannot be prevailed on to serve again, the address will do no harm, on the contrary it will bear honorable testimony to the world how highly this citizen is esteemed by his native state. I hope the address will be supported by every republican member of this house.
LAW OF VIRGINIA.
AN ACT
Concerning the Militia of the City of Richmond.
[Passed January 15th, 1807.]
WHEREAS, it has been represented to this General Assembly, that the militia of the city of Richmond, is at this time inefficient by reason of great defects in the general militia law: for reason whereof,
Sec. 1. Be it enacted, that in future there shall be a muster of each company of the militia in the city of Richmond, including the light companies, troops and artillery, once in every month in the year, except the months of December, January, February and March, and those other months in which the regimental and battalion musters may be held: All which musters shall be held at such times and places as the regimental courts of enquiry shall from time to time direct and appoint.
Sec. 2. That in lieu of the fines now imposed by law on the said militia, any non-commissioned officer or private, failing to attend his regimental, battalion, or company muster, armed and equipped as the law directs, shall forfeit and pay a sum not less than seventy-five cents and not exceeding five dollars; and the fines on the commissioned officers for failure or neglect of duty, shall be as follows: any officer commanding a company, not less than ten and not exceeding twenty-five dollars; any major or commandant of the battalion, not less than fifteen and not exceeding thirty-five dollars; and any commandant of the regiment, not less than twenty and not exceeding fifty dollars. In all other cases of delinquency under the existing law, for which fines are imposed, the said fines shall be increased upon all persons, whether officers, non-commissioned, or privates, not exceeding five dollars.
Sec. 3. In order to insure the certain and speedy collection of fines, there shall be a battalion court of enquiry for the assessment of all fines (to be held at the discretion of the commanding officer of the regiment) at least once in every two months of those months in which musters are directed to be held; and the fines then assessed shall be placed in the hands of the collector for collection within ten days after every such court: Provided however, that each person so fined shall have the right of appealing to the next succeeding court of enquiry.
Sec. 4. The commandant of the regiment, by and with the consent of the regimental court of enquiry, shall be and he is hereby authorised and empowered to appoint a collector to the regiment, who shall have the same powers as a sheriff or sergeant, in the collection of the fines placed in his hands to collect, and shall receive such compensation therefor, as the regimental court of enquiry shall deem just and reasonable, conforming to the act of assembly in such case made and provided: And until the regimental court of enquiry shall meet, the commandant of the regiment, by and with the consent of the battalion court of enquiry, shall have the power to appoint such collector: In both cases however, the person so appointed shall, previously to entering upon the duties of his office, give bond with approved security, in such penalty as the commandant of the regiment, with advice as aforesaid, may think proper, for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office; which bond shall be made payable to the Governor of this commonwealth and his successors, and shall be sued upon as other bonds given by the collectors of public dues.
Provided always, that so much of the fine imposed by this act as will be in addition to the fines now imposed by law, shall be subject to the sole and exclusive appropriation of the regimental court of enquiry for the benefit and use of the nineteenth regiment of militia in the city of Richmond.
Sec. 5. So much of all acts or parts of acts, as contravenes the operation of this law, shall be and the same is hereby repealed.
Sec. 6. This act shall commence and be in force from and after the passing thereof.
THEATRICAL.
We hear with much pleasure, that the Infant Roscius is to make his appearance here in Young Norval, for the benefit of his mother. When we read in the London prints, of the wonderful celebrity of Master Betty, it creates a desire to see one similar reared in the lat of America; and, considering him serving in the cause of his mother, we must wish him that success which his youth, talents, and his laudable endeavors deserve. Who shall resist him in a parent's cause?
From the Petersburg Intelligencer. On Friday evening, Mr. Farthing "Old Norval" demanded & received our warmest applause.—Indeed his field of action here was wide and extensive; his lovely consort in "Lady RANDOLPH," and his wonder-working son in "Young Norval," must had he been himself dependent, have imparted to him some of those heavenly rays which beamed so majestically around their own heads. We cannot throw aside the pen until we have in some measure discharged our duty to Mrs. and Master BARRETT, whose inimitable performance on Friday called forth the loudest plaudits of the audience. We fear not to hazard the assertion that we have never seen Lady RANDOLPH so ably supported as by the former. We could easily discern the delightful throbbings of the maternal heart, when she enfolded the noble Norval to her bosom as her newly discovered son.—She seemed to live upon the tale of his birth and his adventures, and when she found him reflecting lustre upon the noble source from whence he sprang, her deportment loudly proclaimed the conclusive joy that enthralled her. When the villainy of GLENALVON prostrates all her hopes in the duet—when she receives the exhaling youth in her arms, and gives him the embrace that is never to be repeated, her merit was transcendent; she left us nothing to hope for: admiration and sympathetic pity were the only emotions we could give place to.
The merits of Master BARRETT (the American Roscius) have been so frequently and so justly handled by abler critics, that we feel it almost unnecessary to add our mite to his well-earned fame.—We prepared ourselves to meet with considerable powers, keeping in view the extreme youth of the "candidate," and our expectations were fully answered.
CUSTOM-HOUSE—RICHMOND.
CLEARED.
Schr. Traveller, Snow, Boston. Sloop Astrea, Harbet, New-York. Mary Ann, Woodward, ditto. Schr. Mary Mason, Griffin, ditto.
ENTERED.
Sloop Mahala, Poyer, New-York. Schr. Active, Hassam, ditto. Amicus, Jackson, ditto. Sloop Nancy, Finch, Norfolk. Astrea, Harbet, New-York.
DIED—In this City on Sunday last, after a short but severe indisposition, WILSON DAVENPORT, Esq. of Lynchburg, a member of the General Assembly from the county of Campbell.
Land for Sale.
BY virtue of a deed of trust recorded in the county court of Fluvanna, executed by Joshua Bartly, for the purpose of securing a debt due to Abraham Maury, WILL BE SOLD, on the premises, for cash, on the 14th day of March next,
A tract of Land,
Lying on the Rivanna river, about two miles above the courthouse of the said county, containing by estimation between four and five hundred acres. This is a very valuable tract of land, and as it is most certainly to be sold, any person wishing to purchase, would perhaps do well to look at it and enquire of its local situation and advantages from the present occupant.
THE TRUSTEES.
January 20th, 1807. 4w
RAN away from the subscriber, about Christmas, a negro man named JOHN: he is about six feet high, rather likely and extremely polite when spoken to. For two years past he lived with Mr. Anderson Barrett, and is generally known in Richmond, where he has a wife—he is about 35 years of age, and is a carpenter by trade. I will give five dollars for his delivery to me in New-Kent county, or secured in jail and I apprised of it.
Armistead Russell.
January 20, 1807. tf
Valuable property for sale.
PURSUANT to a decree of the Worshipful Court of Hustings for the City of Richmond—the subscribers will expose to sale, on the twenty-eight day of February next, on the premises, for CASH, the
HOUSE & LOT,
In said city, formerly the residence of Jas. Rind, dec. and for some time occupied by Jedediah Allen. On this lot, which is well enclosed, there is a very good Dwelling-House, which has recently undergone a thorough repair, a new Stable, other convenient Offices, and a very good Garden, all which render it a desirable habitation for a family. Previous to the sale, Mr. Allen who lives on the premises, will shew them to any person desirous to become the purchaser.
Edmund Randolph, John Adams, Philip N. Nicholas, John Foster, Richmond, Jan. 15, 1807. Commissioners.
NOTICE.
BY virtue of a deed of trust, a parcel of choice NEGROES consisting of ten Men, that have been accustomed to live in the upper country, and as likely as any in the commonwealth, will be offered for Sale to the highest bidder, to satisfy a debt due Carter Page, Esq. by the Messieurs Deane's, at Cumberland courthouse, on Monday the 26th of January next, (being court day); a credit of twelve months will be allowed, the purchasers giving bond and approved security. It is agreed by the parties that the subscriber shall act for the trustee.
SAMUEL TAYLOR, Jr. Nov. 17, 1806. wtds
POSTPONEMENT.
In conformity to the wishes of all the parties concerned, the sale of the above mentioned NEGROES is postponed until the Fourth Monday in March next.
SAMUEL TAYLOR, Jr. Agent for the Trustee. January 16, 1807. wtds
PROPOSALS FOR PUBLISHING The Impartial Observer.
A WEEKLY paper under the title of the "IMPARTIAL OBSERVER" was commenced in this city, on the 1st of May, 1806. This publication was undertaken without much previous notice being given to the public, or the principles or intentions of its proprietor, but aided by the fostering hand of patronage, it was offered to the public, and a few friendly subscribers, chiefly at the editor's own private expense.
It is some gratification to the publisher, to reflect, that notwithstanding the many disadvantages under which, his labors have been obliged to appear, that still, as far as they have circulated, they have given satisfaction to those whom he considers as the friends of liberty and virtue.
To deserve the approbation of such characters, will be his continual ambition. In order the better to extend the usefulness of the paper, to check the progress of error, and to enable him to convey earlier intelligence, he has been induced, by the advice of his friends, to propose publishing the "Impartial Observer" twice a week, upon the following terms:—
I. The paper to be published upon a sheet of a medium size and good quality. II. The price to new subscribers, four dollars per annum, to be paid quarterly in advance. III. All letters, essays and advertisements, intended for this paper must be post-paid, and all advertisements, or articles of private concern, in order to insure insertion, must be accompanied with the cash. IV. The weekly paper to be continued as usual—the new arrangements will take place, as soon as 300 new subscribers are obtained.
The different post masters and editors of newspapers, who may be disposed to aid the circulation of the paper, are requested to receive subscriptions and forward the respective lists, for which trouble, the usual allowance will be cheerfully made, with a grateful acknowledgement by the editor.
SAMUEL BROOKS.
Richmond, Jan. 22, 1807
Instead of making elaborate professions and promises, of what we can do, or will do, we beg leave to submit to notice the following testimonial of respectable and voluntary approbation.
FOR THE ENQUIRER.
I HAVE perused every number of the "IMPARTIAL OBSERVER," a weekly paper, published in Richmond by Mr. Samuel Brooks—the genuine republican principles which that paper inculcates and enforces, in my opinion, ought to be liberally encouraged by all those, who wish to preserve and transmit our republican institutions, pure and unimpaired to posterity.
Mr. Brooks has given undoubted proof of his integrity—and from several specimens of his literary abilities which I have seen, I am convinced that he is well qualified to discharge the duties of a Newspaper-Editor, with honor to himself and great advantage to the public.
To the labours of the press we are chiefly indebted, for most of the civil and political advantages which we enjoy—and whilst the enemies of liberty are now so actively engaged in corrupting the sources of information, by erecting and amply supporting a number of presses, for the purpose of weakening, or destroying the public confidence in our republican institutions, it becomes a duty in real republicans to cherish those presses, which form the only effectual means to rebut their arguments, and counteract their anti-republican tendencies.
I take a pleasure in recommending to the notice and patronage of true republicans, the paper published by Mr. Brooks, called the "IMPARTIAL OBSERVER"—Should that publication meet with the support to which I think it is entitled, I have no doubt of its becoming, in the hands of its present Editor, a valuable acquisition to the public—and a vigilant watch upon the conduct of the enemies to liberty.
JOHN PAGE.
January 16, 1807.
SUBSCRIBERS TO SIDNEY ON GOVERNMENT,
Are informed that the work is ready for delivery at this office.—A few copies for sale.
GENTLEMEN who have never read this celebrated performance may form some idea of its intrinsic worth and importance to our country, by perusing the following extract of a letter (to the editor,) from his Excellency the President of the United States.
Washington, Dec. 13, 1804.
SIR, YOU ask my opinion on the subject of publishing the works of Algernon Sidney. The world has so long and so generally sounded the praises of his "discourses on government," that it seems superfluous, and even presumptuous, for an individual to add his feeble breath to the gale. They are in truth a rich treasure of republican principles, supported by copious and cogent arguments, and adorned with the finest flowers of science: It is probably the best elementary book of the principles of government, as founded in natural right, that has ever been published in any language.—And it is much to be desired in such a government as ours, that it should be put into the hands of our youth, as soon as their minds are sufficiently matured for that branch of study. Should you proceed to the publication, be so good as to consider me a subscriber; and accept my salutations and assurances of great esteem and respect.
TH: JEFFERSON
The Revd. Mr. Weems. October 4.
A FRANK COPY OF
Church's Cough Drops
Is just received from the Proprietor's Dispensary, New-York, and for sale at this office.

For Sale, By virtue of a deed of trust, executed by Samuel Adams, for the purposes therein mentioned, the Tract of Land, Whereon the said Adams now resides, lying half a mile below Cumberland courthouse, on the Buckingham road. The situation is a good one for a publican or mechanic of any sort. The said tract contains 28 3-4 acres and is well improved, that is to say, a good Dwelling-House, Kitchen, Stable, Garden, and sundry other necessary improvements. The sale will take place on the premises, on the 31st day of January next—Cash will be required of the highest bidder, by SAMUEL HOBSON, Trustee. Dec. 22, 1806. The deed of trust is of record in this Court. S. H.
At the same time and place, the subscriber, by a power duly executed by Samuel Adams, on the 24th December, 1806, will offer to the highest bidder, for cash, 30 1-2 Acres of Land, Lying on the Buckingham road, and immediately opposite to the above mentioned tract. This tract was sold by him as trustee to a deed executed by the Messieurs Deanes to Joseph Gallego, upon this express condition, that no deed would be executed until the whole of the purchase money was paid; and the said Samuel Adams being anxious to discharge the debt, has authorised him to sell the same, and apply the proceeds to the payment of his bond to Joseph Gallego, which will become due on the 15th inst. in the first place, and the balance, after deducting the necessary expenses, etc. to be placed as a credit to a judgment obtained by Joseph Gallego against Samuel Adams and others, in the county court of Powhatan. M. B. POITIAUX. January 5th, 1807. tds
ON Monday the 16th day of February next, will be SOLD, at the tavern of Haley Cole, in the county of Chesterfield, for Cash, Five Negroes, to wit: Two women and three children, conveyed to me in trust by Richardson Harris, to secure the payment of a debt due to William Trabue, assignee of Lyle & McCredie, and the expense necessarily incurred in carrying the said trust into execution. RICH'D. B. GOODE. 3d Jan. 1807. 1m
FOR SALE. My tract of Land, In Powhatan county, containing between nine hundred and a thousand acres, and lying within two miles of the courthouse, and on both sides of Pine creek. This tract of land would be sold entire, otherwise laid off in lots to suit purchasers. Any persons inclined to purchase, it is expected will first view the premises—any further description is deemed unnecessary. For terms apply to the subscriber, living on the premises. SAM BASKERVILLE. Powhatan, Jan. 4th, 1807. tf
MAY be purchased on a long credit, and low terms, the TENEMENT On which the Subscriber lives, situated on Church-hill, within about one half mile of the Richmond market—Containing two acres of ground, well enclosed and highly improved. The buildings consist of a large and well constructed Dwelling House, Laundry, Kitchen, Dairy, Smoke-House, two Stores, Brick-Office, Coach-House, Barn, and Stable. All these buildings are well finished, and in complete order for the accommodation of a large and genteel family; who may have easy access to all the advantages of the city, and live as retired as they could wish. JOHN ELLIS. Dec. 29th, 1806. tf
MATTRASSES. CAN be had on very short notice, MATTRASSES of all sizes & kinds, agreeably to order, in the corner house, same square, below Mr. Jos. Darnall's, near the market, and next door to Mr. Jacob Johnson's book store.—Also, BEDS furnished, and old mattresses worked over. Jno. S. Pleasants. Dec. 5, 1806.
"DISCOVERIES OF LEWIS AND HIS PARTY IN LOUISIANA." A fresh supply of the above interesting work is just received and for sale at this office. October 23. if
THE LADIES' AND GENTLEMEN'S POCKET ALMANAC, FOR 1807, IS JUST RECEIVED & FOR SALE AT THIS OFFICE. The Ladies' Book Contains, An Almanac, ruled pages for memorandums, observations and engagements, also for monies received, paid or lent, for every day in the year, select pieces in prose and poetry, new & celebrated songs, a marketing table and several useful tables. The Gentlemen's Book Contains, An Almanac, ruled pages for memorandums, and cash accounts. Government of the United States, Executive, Legislative and Judiciary, Commissioners of Loans and Agents for Invalid Pensions, Federal courts of Law, Departments of the Federal Government, Land Officers, Patents, Ministers, Consuls, &c. to and from foreign nations, Military establishment, Table of the pay and subsistence of officers, of the Navy, List of officers of the Navy, Marine corps, Navy agents, Navy yard at Washington, List of the whole naval force of the United States, Duties payable by law, extract from non-importation act, list of officers of the Customs, Light Houses, several useful tables. December 24,
Notice. The business heretofore carried on in this place under the firm of Walter Irvine & Co. Has this day mutually expired. Those who have claims against said concern, will please bring them forward for adjustment; and the debtors are earnestly requested to make payment as soon as possible—Indulgence has already been liberally granted. Walter Irvine & Co.
The business in future will be conducted under the firm of Irvine & Pittman, Who intend keeping a general assortment of Dry Goods & Groceries, Which they will sell on liberal terms for cash, or usual credit. Walter Irvine. Thomas Pittman. New-Canton, 1st Jan. 1807. 3w
THE PARTNERSHIP OF A. HEWES & CO. Dissolved the 31st of December, 1806. The business in future will be done by Job Greene, Who will discharge the debts due from the concern, and to whom those indebted will make payment. J. Greene. A. Hewes, Jun. J. GREENE has removed from the store occupied by A. Hewes & Co. to the store formerly occupied by Henry Toler, Jun. & Co. where he will keep for sale, a general assortment of GROCERIES, &c. &c. January 1st, 1807. J. GREENE.
Marshal's Sales. WILL be SOLD, to the highest bidder, for ready money, under a decree of the court of the United States for the fifth circuit in the Virginia District, between Phineas Bond, attorney for the creditors of Ezekiel Edwards, plaintiff, and David Ross, and others, defendants—THREE Valuable Plantations, In the counties of Pittsylvania and Bedford, upon Staunton and Pigg rivers, stated in the deed of trust in the proceedings mentioned, to contain three thousand acres, more or less, but supposed to be considerably more extensive, comprehending all the lands that on the 5th day of June, 1795, belonged or appertained to the three plantations known by the name of the Mountain plantation, mouth of Pigg River plantation, and the Fryingpan plantation. A more particular description of which will be given on the day of sale. The sale will take place at the Eagle-Tavern in the city of Richmond, on Tuesday the 24th day of February next. Also, at the Oxford Iron Works in the county of Campbell, on Tuesday the third day of March next, will be sold under the said decree, upon the same terms, a number of very valuable SLAVES. BENJ. MOSBY, D. M. for JOS. SCOTT, M. V. D. epids.
Will be sold for CASH, TO the highest bidder, at public auction, in the town of Charlottesville, at the tavern of Triplet T. Estes, on the tenth day of February next, A tract or parcel of Land, Lying and being in the county of Albemarle, containing six hundred acres, at present occupied by James Rosen, and adjoining the lands of John Watson, John Gilliam, jr. and &c. conveyed to me in trust by Matthew Henderson, to secure the payment of a debt due Brown, Rives and Co. The sale will be made in conformity to said conveyance, and being only interested as trustee for the benefit of others, I will only convey title to said land vested in me as trustee. MARTIN DAWSON, Trustee. Milton, Jan. 13, 1807. 3w
PUBLISHED BY SUBSCRIPTION, DR. REES'S NEW CYCLOPEDIA, OR Universal Dictionary of Arts & Sciences, IN TWENTY VOLUMES QUARTO. CONDITIONS. THE work will be printed in large quarto, with new types, cast for the purpose, on a superfine wove paper, each volume will contain from eight hundred to a thousand pages. A half volume, in boards, will be published regularly every two months, PRICE THREE DOLLARS, PAYABLE ON DELIVERY. Between six and seven hundred plates, engraved in a superior style of elegance, will be comprised in the course of the publication, by far a greater number than is to be found in any other Scientific Dictionary. ** To Subscribers. The four first half volumes are ready for delivery at the Book-Store of Samuel Pleasants, jun. Richmond. wtf Nov. 6.
WILL BE SOLD. FOR CASH. On the 18th day of February, 1807, at the present residence of William Clarkson, in the county of Albemarle, a certain tract or parcel of LAND, Lying in the said county, adjoining the land of Benjamin Robertson, James Herring, Benjamin Dowell, Milly Dowell, and Patience Dowell, and containing by survey forty-six and three-quarter acres, being the land conveyed to the subscriber in trust by John Dowell, to secure the payment of a debt due from him to John Key & Co. and for the payment of which the land will be sold, by JULIUS CLARKSON, Trustee. Jan. 13, 1807. tds
TICKETS in the Second Class of the William and Mary College Lottery are for sale at this office.
MCCAY and COWAN, HAVE just received by the late arrivals from London, a large and fashionable assortment of WATCHES, with a variety of articles of JEWELLERY and SILVER WORK—ALSO, an assortment of WATCH MAKERS' TOOLS and MATERIALS—which with their former stock, renders their assortment very general—all of which they offer at the lowest prices, for cash. Richmond, October 9th, 1806. tf
ANDREW JAMIESON'S Alexandria Crackers. NOW landing, a consignment by Mr. Jamieson, direct from the Bakery of "far famed excellent CRACKERS," barrels, half barrels and kegs. Also PILOT BREAD. And for sale (at the bakery price in Alexandria, and charges) at the store lately occupied by Messrs. Granberry and Hancock, by JAMES SMITH, Who has in store low priced Blue, sack cloth, and assorted FLANNELS, which he will sell a bargain. Also IN-PIECE GOODS very cheap. Richmond, Dec. 1, 1806. tf
FOR SALE. THE LOT & HOUSES where- on John Hamilton, Esq. the British Consul, resides: on it are a three story Dwelling House an Office and Kitchen, and other necessary Houses for family use; a Well of good Water, newly fitted and a Garden lately laid out, a Warehouse and Cellar under it; the remains of a Wharf, which will make a good foundation to build on; with all the privileges of lots situated on the river, of extending a wharf. Also, 271 1-2 Acres of well timbered LAND, with a good Fishery on Willoughby's Bay, taking in the mouth and part of Mason's Creek, where the best of Oysters and Fish can be conveniently taken. Also, a LOT in Smithfield, between Mrs. Purdie's and Captain Todd's lots.—For terms apply to Thos. Newton. August 2.
TO RENT, THE BRICK HOUSE, at the Falling Garden, at present occupied by S. Pleasants—Possession may be had by the last of this month Enquire of the subscriber, near the premises. JAMES LOWNES. 19th Month, 3d 1806. tf
DESIGN the ensuing year, with the aid of a qualified teacher, to attempt the Tuition of 15 Females—Grammar, Geography & Arithmetic will be taught. Strict attention will also be paid to the composition of the Scholars, nor will their morals be neglected. The price will be £28 each scholar finding her own bed—1/6th of the price to be paid in advance. Gerard Banks. Goodland, 27th Sept. 1806. tf
Thirty Dollars Reward. DESERTED from this place, on the 14th inst. JAMES LOWNES, a soldier of the public guard, about 28 years of age, five feet 7 or 8 inches high, fair complexion, with red hair and large whiskers, with blue eyes. It is unknown where he will go, as he is very fond of spirits. Any person taking up said deserter and bringing him to this place, and delivering him to me, or either of the officers of the said guard, shall receive the above reward. ALEX. QUARNIER, C. P. G. N. B. All masters of vessels are forbidden from carrying him out of this place. A. Q. Richmond, Nov. 18th, 1806.
FOR SALE, A Tract of Land, SEVEN miles below Richmond, belonging to the estate of James Redford, dec. containing 67 1-4 acres, upon a credit of 1, 2, and 3 years, equal payments. The sale to be on the premises, on Thursday the 5th day of February next. Possession will be given on the purchaser's giving bond and approved security, and a deed of trust upon the property, by MILES TURPIN, Ex'r. of Lucy Redford, dec. Jan. 6th, 1807. 4w
FOR SALE, 70 3-4 Acres of Land, FOUR and a half or five miles from this place—about 25 or 30 acres of which are cleared and well enclosed—There is on the place a small Dwelling House, a log Kitchen, a log house not quite finished, a small Apple Orchard, a young Peach Orchard, and an excellent Garden. For terms apply to Mr. J. West, or to the subscriber living in Cumberland. JOHN SEAYRES. Cumberland, Jan. 13, 1807.
JUST RECEIVED AT THIS OFFICE, Jefferson's Manual Constitutions of the United States Darwin on Female Education Moore on Female Education Blair's Lectures Steuben's Exercises Espinasse's Nisi Prius Ainsworth's Young's and Entic's Latin Dictionaries Sallust, Delphini, Horace do. Ovid do. Virgil do. Rudiman's Rudiments Cicero's Orations, with translation Lucian's Dialogues Greek Grammar, Lexicons and Testaments. Jan. 20.
FOR SALE, 70 3-4 Acres of Land, FOUR and a half or five miles from this place—about 25 or 30 acres of which are cleared and well enclosed—There is on the place a small Dwelling House, a log Kitchen, a log house not quite finished, a small Apple Orchard, a young Peach Orchard, and an excellent Garden. For terms apply to Mr. J. West, or to the subscriber living in Cumberland. JOHN SEAYRES. Cumberland, Jan. 13, 1807.
DISTRICT OF VIRGINIA, TO WIT: BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the eighth day of January, in the thirty-first year of the Independence of the United States of America, William W. Henning and William Munford, of the said district, have deposited in this office, the title of a book, the right whereof they claim as authors, in the words following, to wit: "Reports of cases argued and determined in the Supreme Court of Appeals of Virginia: with select cases, relating chiefly to points of practice, decided by the Superior Court of Chancery for the Richmond District. Part I. Vol. I. By William W. Henning and William Munford."
In conformity to the act of the congress of the United States, intituled "An act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned," and also, to an act intituled "An act supplementary to an act, intituled, an act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned. And extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving, and etching historical, and other prints." Wm. MARSHALL, (L. S.) Clerk of the District of Virginia.
The above work is this day published, and may be had at Samuel Pleasants' Printing-Office and Book-Store, Richmond. Jan. 13, 1807. 3w
By virtue of a decree of the county court of Albemarle, pronounced in the case of Micajah Chiles' executors against Menan Mills, will be SOLD, for ready money, on the premises, on the 16th day of February next, The Houses and Lot In the town of Charlottesville, formerly the residence of Micajah Chiles—ALSO on the premises on the 17th day of the same month, a certain tract or parcel of LAND, supposed to contain five hundred and sixty seven acres, being the land whereon the said Menan Mills now resides, situated in Albemarle county, about 12 or 13 miles above Charlottesville, on or near the road leading from Charlottesville to Amherst courthouse—The above mentioned property will be sold for the purpose of satisfying the above mentioned decree by the COMMISSIONERS. The above property was to have been sold in last month as formerly advertised—the sale was then postponed at the request of Mr. Mills, but will certainly take place at the time now mentioned. Jan. 7th, 1807. tds
JUST PUBLISHED, By SAMUEL PLEASANTS, JUN. and for sale by the gross, dozen, or single, at his Printing-Office and Book-Store, Richmond: The Virginia Almanack, FOR THE YEAR OF OUR LORD, 1807;
Being the third after Bissexile or Leap Year Adapted to the Latitude and Meridian of Richmond Calculated by BENJAMIN BATES, Of Amherst, in Virginia. Containing, besides the astronomical calculations, officers of Government, members of the Senate and House of Delegates, times of holding the superior & county Courts throughout the state, list of roads &c. &c. &c. a great variety of useful and entertaining matter. ** Great allowance made to wholesale purchasers.
WHEREAS some time past, I purchased a piece of land in Goochland county, of one William Lovell, for which I gave him two bonds, one for eighteen pounds, payable the 25th day of December, one thousand eight hundred and eight, the other bond for 27 pounds, payable the 25th of December, one thousand eight hundred and twelve, and as the said Lovell has gone away without making me a right to the said land agreeable to bargain, I do forewarn all person or persons in trading for the above-mentioned bonds, as I do not intend to pay them unless I get a right agreeable to bargain. WM. SHEPPARD. 9th November, 1806. tf
NEW PUBLICATIONS. The Stranger in Ireland, OR A TOUR In the Southern and Western parts of that country. In the year 1805. By JOHN CARR, Esq. of the honorable society of the middle temple, author of a Northern Summer or travels round the Baltic; the Stranger in France, &c."
"ORIGINAL ANECDOTES OF FREDERICK THE GREAT, King of Prussia, and of his family, his court, his ministers, his academics, and his literary friends—collected during a familiar intercourse of twenty years with that prince; translated from the French of D. TRIEBAULT, Professor of Belles Lettres in the royal academy of Berlin—in 2 vols. price four dollars. Few works have been presented to the public so justly esteemed in Europe and America as this. The Author has delineated the character of this great man in a manner so ingeniously that no person can read it without feeling a gratification which few works are calculated to produce in a similar degree."
"Life of William Pitt, "Late prime minister of Great Britain, with Biographical notices of his principal Friends and Illustrious Cotemporaries."
"Charnock's Memoirs of Lord Nelson."
"Moore's Epistolary Odes, and other Poems."
"The Revolutionary Plutarch, or anecdotes of the Bonaparte Family."
A few of the above interesting works are just received & for sale at this office
THE subscribers have on hand now for private sale, which they will sell on low terms, for approved endorsed notes, and 90 and 180 days— 1500 bushels Liverpool stowed Salt, 500 sacks Salt containing 4 bushels, Twilled Sacking, 50 Hhds. Sugar, a part of which of prime quality, 20 Barrels ditto, ditto, 20 Hds. prime Antigua Rum, 3d proof, 30 Do. Windward Island ditto, 10 Pipes best Cogniac Brandy, 4th p. f., 15 Chests Imperial, and 50 Young Hyson Tea, Hyson-skin, Souchong and O'd Hyson Teas, A few kegs prime Nutmegs, 100 barrels Apple Brandy, the greater part of which is Lile of Wight, 10 pipes Hollands Gin, Lisbon Wine of superior quality, in hhds. pipes and quarter casks, 50 Hds. prime Molasses, 50 Bags Coffee, 600 Weeding Hoes—and, A GENERAL ASSORTMENT OF DRY GOODS. The Public Sales are regularly twice a week, every Monday and Thursday. PROSSER & MONCURE, Auctioneers. N. B. A LIGHT, NEAT, Charriot & Harness, ON LONG CREDIT. Also, to be hired, a NEGRO MAN, who is a good Cook. P. & M. Richmond, Jan. 17, 1807. w4t
We have lately received, FOR SALE, 12 Hds. sugar 15 boxes cotton & wool 40 bbls. do. cards do. 3000 lbs. green coffee 4 tons carriages assorted, viz. pots, ovens, skillets, spiders, and irons, teakettles and waggon boxes 10 Hds. Antigua rum 350 sacks salt 5 do. Windward Island do. 100 bbls cut herrings do. 14 Hds. M. E. rum 50 do whole do 14 bbls do do 40 pieces S. B's. whisky 12 Hds. molasses 40 pieces apple brandy 8 casks Malaga wine 15 do do 40 pieces S. B's. whisky 15 do do 15 bbls do do 40 lbs Spanish indigo 12 crates Liverpool 15 lbs nutmegs ware assorted 100 pr men's fine shoes 10 do stone do 50 do coarse do 500 lbs Glauber salts
We have also on hand, Iron Leaf sugar German, Crawley and Linsed oil Blistered Steel Nova Scotia grind stones Race & ground ginger Ground plaster in bbls Pepper Good manufactured tobacco by the keg, for retailing Alspice Tar FF & F powder Weeding hoes Shot, assorted sizes Nests woodware French brandy Bed cords, leading lines and twine Rice Necklace Cheese Stone jugs, butter pots, chamber pots, wasp basons, bake pans, churns, &c. &c. Wrought and cut nails, assorted sizes Snuff Class ware, viz. I. 2 pt. tumblers and decanters, assorted sizes Hats We daily expect to receive, a quantity of Sherry Wine, Window Glass, Copress and Alum; all of which articles, we will sell at a small advance, for cash, approved paper or country produce. Shapard & Lucke. Richmond, May 8, 1806
To the Public.
To the Public. THE Subscriber has removed to an house near the upper end of the Town on the Street leading from the Capitol square. He continues to practise law in all the Superior Courts held in the City of Richmond, and also in the District Court or Brunswick. His Clients may rely on his utmost assiduity and attention to the business entrusted to his care. WM. MUNFORD.
Andrew Hetheron, TAYLOR, FROM EDINBURGH, RESPECTFULLY informs the Gentlemen of Richmond and Manchester, that he has opened his SHOP in the street leading to the Governor's, in the house opposite Mr. Crouch's Tavern—and hopes from the experience which he has had in the most fashionable towns in Great Britain, that his ability in the business, is such as will give satisfaction to those who may favor him with their employment. Richmond, Jan. 12, 1807. 6tw
Notice. ALL persons having any just claims against the estate of Smith Blakey, dec. of Henrico county, and against the estate of Thomas Blakey, dec. of Hanover county, are requested to make them known; and those who are indebted to the said estates are requested to make payment, as no further indulgence will be given. GEO. BLAKEY, Adm'r. of Smith Blakey & Thos. Blakey 14th Jan. 1807. w4t
Charles Schaaff, Skin-Dresser & Parchment-Maker, LATE FROM PHILADELPHIA; INFORMS the public that he has commenced the business in this city, on the street leading from the Market house by B. Tate's Tanyard; has now for sale, PARCHMENT and white Tanned SHEEP and LAMB SKINS of the best quality; also, SHEEP WOOL for hatters and spinning. He expects shortly to be able to supply a large quantity of Felt and Roman WOOL, which he will sell on reasonable terms. Richmond, Jan. 15, 1807. w2j
Just received and for sale at this Office, War in Disguise Answer to War in Disguise An enquiry into the present state of the Foreign Relations of the union, &c. &c. The Literary Magazine and American Register, for October, 1806 The History of Napoleon Bonaparte, Emperor of the French The Revolutionary Plutarch, or Memoirs of the Bonaparte Family Carr's Stranger in Ireland, Stranger in France, and Northern Summer.

VIRGINIA ARGUS EXTRA. Jan. 27, 1807
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE U. STATES, TRANSMITTING INFORMATION TOUCHING AN ILLEGAL COMBINATION OF PRIVATE INDIVIDUALS Against the peace and safety of the Union, and a Military Expedition, planned by them against the territories of a power in amity with the United States; with the measures pursued for suppressing the same, in pursuance of a resolution of the house of the sixteenth instant.
Referred to Messrs. J. Randolph, Boyle, Jer. Morrow, Campbell, R. Nelson, Clinton and Bidwell.
To the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States.
AGREABLY to the request of the House of Representatives, communicated in their resolution of the sixteenth instant, I proceed to state, under the reserve therein expressed, information received touching an illegal combination of private individuals against the peace and safety of the Union, and a military expedition planned by them against the territories of a power in amity with the United States, with the measures I have pursued for suppressing the same.
I had, for some time, been in the constant expectation of receiving such further information as would have enabled me to lay before the legislature the termination, as well as the beginning, and progress of this scene of depravity, so far as it has been acted on the Ohio and its waters. From this the state of safety of the lower country might have been estimated on probable grounds; and the delay was induced the rather, because no circumstance had yet made it necessary to call in the aid of the legislative functions. Information, now recently communicated, has brought us nearly to the period contemplated. The mass of what I have received, in the course of these transactions, is voluminous; but little has been given under the sanction of an oath, so as to constitute formal and legal evidence. It is chiefly in the form of letters, often containing such a mixture of rumors, conjectures and suspicions, as renders it difficult to sift out the real facts, and inadvisable to hazard more than general outlines, strengthened by concurrent information, or the particular credibility of the relator. In this state of the evidence, delivered sometimes too under the restriction of private confidence, neither safety nor justice will permit the exposing names, except that of the principal actor, whose guilt is placed beyond question.
Some time in the latter part of September, I received intimations that designs were in agitation in the western country, unlawful, and unfriendly to the peace of the Union; and that the prime mover in these was Aaron Burr, heretofore distinguished by the favor of his country. The grounds of these intimations being inconclusive, the objects uncertain, and the fidelity of that country known to be firm, the only measure taken, was to urge the informants to use their best endeavors to get further insight into the designs and proceedings of the suspected persons, and to communicate them to me.
It was not till the latter part of October, that the objects of the conspiracy began to be perceived; but still so blended and involved in mystery that nothing distinct could be singled out for pursuit. In this state of uncertainty, as to the crime contemplated, the acts done, and the legal course to be pursued, I thought it best to send to the scene, where these things were principally in transaction, a person in whose integrity, understanding and discretion, entire confidence could be reposed, with instructions to investigate the plot going on, to enter into conference (for which he has sufficient credentials) with the governors and all other officers civil and military, and, with their aid, to do on the spot whatever should be necessary to discover the designs of the conspirators, arrest their means, bring their persons to punishment, and to call out the force of the country to suppress any unlawful enterprise, in which it should be found they were engaged. By this time it was known that many boats were under preparation, stores of provisions collecting, and an unusual number of suspicious characters in motion on the Ohio & its waters. Besides dispatching the confidential agent to that quarter, orders were at the same time sent to the governors of the Orleans and Mississippi territories, and to the commanders of the land and naval forces there, to be on their guard against surprise, and in constant readiness to resist any enterprise which might be attempted on the vessels, posts, or other objects under their care; and on the eighth of November, instructions were forwarded to general Wilkinson, to hasten an accommodation with the Spanish commandant on the Sabine, and as soon as that was effected, to fall back with his principal force to the higher bank of the Mississippi, for the defence of the interesting points on that river. By a letter received from that officer on the twenty-fifth of November, but dated October twenty-first, we learnt that a confidential agent of Aaron Burr, had been deputed to him, with communications, partly written in cypher, and partly oral, explaining his designs, exaggerating his resources, and making such offers of emolument and command, as to engage him and the army in his unlawful enterprises as he had flattered himself would be successful. The general, with the honor of a soldier, and fidelity of a good citizen, immediately dispatched a trusty officer to me, with information of what had passed, proceeded to establish such an understanding with the Spanish commandant on the Sabine, as permitted him to withdraw his force across the Mississippi, and to enter on measures for opposing the projected enterprise.
The general's letter, which came to hand on the twenty-fifth of November, as has been mentioned, and some other information, received a few days earlier, when brought together, developed Burr's general designs, different parts of which only had been revealed to different informants. It appeared that he contemplated two distinct objects, which might be carried on either jointly or separately, and either the one or the other first, as circumstances should direct. One of these was the severance of the union of these states by the Allegany mountains; the other an attack on Mexico. A third object was provided, merely ostensible, to wit, the settlement of a pretended purchase of a tract of country on the Washita, claimed by a baron Bastrop. This was to serve as the pretext for all his preparations, an allure for such followers as
really wished to acquire settlements in that country, and a cover under which to retreat in the event of a final discomfiture of both branches of his real design.
He found at once that the attachment of the western country to the present union, was not to be shaken; that its dissolution could not be effected with the consent of its inhabitants, and that his resources were inadequate, as yet to effect it by force. He took his course then at once, determined to seize on New Orleans, plunder the bank there, possess himself of the military and naval stores, and proceed on his expedition to Mexico; and to this object all his means and preparations were now directed. He collected from all the quarters where himself or his agents possessed influence, all the ardent, restless, desperate, and disaffected persons who were ready for any enterprise analogous to their characters. He seduced good and well meaning citizens, some by assurances that he possessed the confidence of the government, and was acting under its secret patronage; a pretence which procured some credit from the state of our differences with Spain; and others by offers of land in Bastrop's claim on the Washita.
This was the state of my information of his proceedings, about the last of November; at which time, therefore, it was first possible to take specific measures to meet them. The proclamation of November twenty-seventh, two days after the receipt of general Wilkinson's information, was now issued. Orders were despatched to every interesting point on the Ohio and Mississippi, from Pittsburgh to New Orleans, for the employment of such force, either of the regulars or of the militia, and of such proceedings, as the civil authorities, as might enable them to seize on all boats and stores provided for the enterprise, to arrest the persons concerned, and to suppress effectually the further progress of the enterprise. A little before the receipt of these orders in the state of Ohio, our confidential agent, who had been diligently employed in investigating the conspiracy, had acquired sufficient information to open himself to the governor of that state, and to apply for the immediate exertion of the authority and power of the state, to crush the combination. Governor Tiffin and the legislature, with a promptitude, an energy, and patriotic zeal, which entitled them to a distinguished place in the affection of their sister states, effected the seizure of all the boats, provisions, and other preparations within their reach; and thus gave a first blow, materially disabling the enterprise in its outset.
In Kentucky a premature attempt to bring Burr to justice, without sufficient evidence for his conviction, had produced a popular impression in his favor, and a general disbelief of his guilt. This gave him an unfortunate opportunity of hastening his equipments. The arrival of the proclamation and orders, and the application and information of our confidential agent, at length awakened the authorities of that state to the truth, and then produced the same promptitude and energy of which the neighboring state had set the example. Under an act of their legislature of December twenty-third, militia was instantly ordered to different important points, and measures taken for doing whatever could yet be done. Some boats (accounts vary from five to double or treble that number) and persons (differently estimated from one to three hundred) had in the mean time passed the falls of Ohio, to rendezvous at the mouth of Cumberland, with others expected down that river.
Not apprized, till very late, that any boats were building on Cumberland, the effect of the proclamation had been trusted to for some time in the state of Tennessee; but on the nineteenth of December similar communications and instructions, with those to the neighboring states, were despatched by express to the governor, and a general officer of the western division of the state; and on the twenty-third of December, our confidential agent left Frankfort for Nashville, to put into activity, the means of that state also. But by information received yesterday, I learn that on the twenty-second of December, Mr. Burr descended the Cumberland, with two boats merely of accommodation, carrying from that state no quota towards his unlawful enterprise. Whether after the arrival of the proclamation, or of our agent, or of the orders of the governor of Kentucky for calling out the militia at the mouth of Cumberland, would be in time to arrest these boats, and those from the falls of Ohio, is still doubtful.
On the whole, the fugitives from the Ohio, with their associates from Cumberland, or any other place in that quarter, cannot in their present state of preparation, be in any danger to the city of New Orleans. By the same express of December nineteenth, orders were sent to the governors of Orleans and Mississippi, supplementary to those which had been given on the twenty-fifth of November, to hold the militia of their territories in readiness to co-operate for their defence with the regular troops and armed vessels then under command of general Wilkinson. Great alarm indeed was excited at New Orleans, by the exaggerated accounts of Mr. Burr, disseminated through his emissaries, of the armies and navies he was to assemble there. General Wilkinson had arrived there himself on the twenty-fourth of November, and had immediately put into activity the resources of the place, for the purpose of its defence; and on the tenth of December, he was joined by his troops from the Sabine. Great zeal was shown by the inhabitants generally; the merchants of the place readily agreeing to the most laudable exertions and sacrifices for manning the armed vessels with their seamen; and the other citizens manifesting unequivocal fidelity to the union, and a spirit of determined resistance to their expected assailants.
Surmises have been hazarded that this enterprise is to receive aid from certain foreign powers. But these surmises are without proof or probability. The wisdom of the measures sanctioned by congress at its last session, has placed us in the paths of peace and justice, with the only powers with whom we had any differences; and nothing has happened since which makes it either their interest or ours to pursue another course. No change of measures has taken place on our part; none ought to take place at this time. With the one, friendly arrangement was then proposed, and the law, deemed necessary on failure of that, was suspended to give time for a fair trial of the issue. With the same power friendly arrangement is now proceeding, under good expectations, and the same law deemed necessary on failure of that, is still suspended to give time for a fair trial of the issue. With the other, negotiation was in like manner then preferred, and provisional measures only taken to meet the event of rupture. With the same of that affair also, under the usual liability for
power, negotiation is still preferred, and provisional measures only are necessary to meet the event of rupture. While therefore we do not defer in the slightest degree from the course we then assumed, and are still pursuing, with mutual consent, to restore a good understanding, we are not to impute to them practices as irreconcilable to interest as to good faith, and changing necessarily the relations of peace and justice between us to those of war. These surmises are therefore to be imputed to the vauntings of the author of this enterprise to multiply his partisans by magnifying the belief of his prospects and support.
By letters from gen. Wilkinson, of the fourteenth and eighteenth of December, which came to hand two days after the date of the resolution, on the morning of the eighteenth instant, I received the important affidavit, a copy of which I now communicate, with extracts of so much of the letters as comes within the scope of the resolution. By these it will be seen that of three of the principal emissaries of Mr. Burr, whom the general had caused to be apprehended, one had been liberated by habeas corpus, and two others, being those particularly employed in the endeavor to corrupt the general and army of the United States, have been embarked by him for ports in the Atlantic states, probably on the consideration that an impartial trial could not be expected, during the present agitations of New Orleans, and that that city was not as yet a safe place of confinement. As soon as these persons shall arrive, they will be delivered to the custody of the law, and left to such course of trial both as to place and process, as its functions may direct. The presence of the highest judicial authorities, to be assembled at this place within a few days, the means of pursuing a sounder course of proceedings here than elsewhere, and the aid of the executive means, should the judges have occasion to use them, render it equally desirable, for the criminal as for the public, that, being already removed from the place where they were apprehended, the first regular arrest should take place here, and the course of proceedings receive here its proper direction.
January 22d, 1807. TH: JEFFERSON.
Extract of a letter from Gen. James Wilkinson, dated New Orleans, Dec. 14, 1806.
After several consultations with the governor and judges, touching the arrest and confinement of certain known agents and emissaries of col. Burr, in this city and territory, whose intrigues and machinations were to be apprehended, it is with their privy and approbation that I have caused three of them to be arrested, viz. doctor Erick Bollman, Samuel Swartwout and Peter V. Ogden, against whom I possess strong facts, and I have recommended to the governor to have James Alexander, esq., taken up on the grounds of strong suspicion. These persons and all others who, by their character and deportment, may be considered hostile to the interests of the United States, or dangerous to this feeble frontier under the menacing aspect of things from above, will, if my influence can prevail, be seized and sent by sea to the United States, subject to the disposition of the government, and accompanied by such information as may justify their confinement, and furnish a clue to the development of the grounds, progress and projectors of the treasonable enterprise in which they are engaged.
This letter will accompany doctor Bollman, who is to be this day embarked in a vessel bound for Charleston, under the charge of lieut. Wilson of the artillery, who has orders to pass with his prisoner at fort Johnston or fort Moultrie, to forward this dispatch by mail, and to wait the orders of the executive. Mr. Swartwout will be sent to Baltimore by a vessel which will sail some time in the ensuing week, in custody of another subaltern, who will be the bearer of strong testimony against him and also col. Burr, and the others will follow under due precautions, by the earliest opportunities which may present.
I deem it essential to keep these prisoners apart to prevent the adjustment of correspondent answers, or confessions to any examination which may ensue, and I hope the measures of the executive may be so prompt and efficient as to relieve the officers in charge of them from their trust before the interposition of the friends of the prisoners may effect their liberation. By this procedure we may intimidate the confederates, who are unquestionably numerous in this as well as the adjacent territory, disconnect their arrangements and possibly destroy their intrigues; and I hope the zeal which directs the measure may be justified and approved, for whilst the glow of patriotism actuates my conduct, and I am willing to offer myself a martyr to the constitution of my country, I should indeed be most grievously disappointed did I incur its censure.
Here, sir, we find the key to the western states, and here we must form one grand depository and place of arms; combine to this disposition a river fleet competent to its occupation, and post it thirty or forty leagues above the Yazoo river, and we may repose in security, for the discontent and sufferings of our insurgent citizens which must immediately ensue, will soon open their eyes to the wickedness of their leaders, and work a radical reformation without bloodshed. This is my plan for resisting an internal attack; for external defence gun boats and bomb ketches, with floating batteries at the mouths of the Mississippi, and the passes from lake Ponchartrain, will be necessary.
Extract of a letter from Gen. James Wilkinson, dated New Orleans, December 18, 1806.
SIR, Since my last of the 14th instant, writs of habeas corpus have been issued for the bodies of Bollman, Swartwout and Ogden; the two latter by judge Workman, who is strongly suspected for being connected with Burr in his conspiracy, as I have proof this man declared some time since that "the republican who possessed power, and did not employ it to establish a despotism, was a fool."
His writ for Ogden was served on capt. Shaw, of the navy, who had him in charge at my request, on board the Etna bomb ketch, and delivered him up; & Mr. Workman discharged him without giving me a word of information, although he knew he was confined by my order for a reasonable combination with Mr. Burr, and Mr. Ogden now struts at large, Swartwout I have sent off, and shall so report, holding myself ready for consequences. Bollman was required by the superior court, but I have got rid of that affair also, under the usual liability for
damages, in which case I shall look to our country for protection.
I, James Wilkinson, brigadier general and commander in chief of the army of the United States, to warrant the arrest of Doctor Erick Bollman, on a charge of treason, misprision of treason, or such other offence against the government and laws of the United States, as the following facts may legally charge him with, on my honor as a soldier, and on the holy evangelists of Almighty God, do declare and swear, that on the sixth day of November last, when in command at Natchitoches, I received by the hands of a Frenchman, a stranger to me, a letter from Doctor Erick Bollman, of which the following is a correct copy,
New Orleans, September 27, 1806.
SIR, "I have the honor to forward to your excellency the enclosed letters, which I was charged to deliver to you by our mutual friend. I shall remain for some time at this place, and should be glad to learn where and when I may have the pleasure of an interview with you. Have the goodness to inform me of it, and please to direct your letter to me, care of inclose it under cover to them, I have the honor to be, With great respect, sir, Your excellency's most obedient servant, (Signed) ERICK BOLLMAN.
GEN. WILKINSON"
Covering a communication in cypher from colonel Aaron Burr, of which the following is substantially as fair an interpretation as I have heretofore been able to make, the original of which I hold in my possession: "I (Aaron Burr) have obtained funds and have actually commenced the enterprise. Detachments from different points and under different pretences will rendezvous on the Ohio, 1st November. Every thing internal and external favours views; protection of England is secured. "T. is gone to Jamaica to arrange with the admiral at that station, and will meet at the Mississippi—England—navy of United States are ready to join, and final orders are given to my friends and followers; it will be an host of choice spirits. Wilkinson shall be second to Burr only; Wilkinson shall dictate the rank and promotion of his officers. Burr will proceed westward 1st August, never to return; with him go his daughter; the husband will follow in October with a corps of warships; send forthwith with an intelligent and confidential friend, with whom Burr may confer; he shall return immediately with further interesting details: This is essential to concert and harmony of movement; send a list of all persons known to Wilkinson west of the mountains, who could be useful, with a note delineating their characters.
By your messenger send me four or five of the commissions of your officers, which you can borrow under any pretence you please: they shall be returned faithfully; already are orders to the contractor given to forward six months provisions to points Wilkinson may name: This shall not be used until the last moment, and then under proper injunctions: the project is brought to the point so long desired: Burr guarantees the result with his life and honor, the lives, the honor, and fortunes of hundreds, the best blood of our country: Burr's plan of operations is to move down rapidly from the falls on the fifteenth of November, with the first five hundred or one thousand men, in light boats, now constructing for that purpose; to be at Natchez between the fifth and fifteenth of December, then to meet Wilkinson; then to determine whether it will be expedient in the first instance to seize on or pass by Baton Rouge; on receipt of this and Burr's answer: draw on Burr for all expenses, &c. The people of the country to which we are going are prepared to receive us; their agents now with Burr say, that if we will protect their religion, and will not subject them to a foreign power, that in three weeks all will be settled. The Gods invite to glory and fortune: it remains to be seen, whether we deserve the boon: the bearer of this goes express to you; he will hand a formed letter of introduction to you from Burr, a copy of which is herewith subjoined; he is a man of inviolable honor and perfect discretion; formed to execute rather than to project; capable of relating facts with fidelity, and incapable of relating them otherwise; he is thoroughly informed of the plans and intentions of Burr, and will disclose to you as far as you enquire, and no further; he has imbibed a reverence for your character, and may be embarrassed in your presence; put him at ease and he will satisfy you: Doctor Bollman, equally confidential, better informed on the subject, and more intelligent, will hand this duplicate." 29th July.
The day after my arrival at this city, the 26th of November last, I received another letter from the doctor, of which the following is a correct copy:
New Orleans, November 25, 1806.
SIR, "Your letter of the 16th inst. has been duly received; supposing that you will be much engaged this morning, I defer waiting on your excellency till you will be pleased to inform me of the time when it will be convenient to you to see me." I remain, with great respect, Your excellency's most obedient servant, ERICK BOLLMAN.
His Excellency, General Wilkinson, Fauxbourg. Marigny, the house between madame Trevigne and M. Macarty.
On the 30th of the same month I waited in person on Dr. E. Bollman, when he informed me that he had not heard from colonel Burr since his arrival here—that he (the said doctor Erick Bollman) had sent dispatches to col. Burr by a lieut. Spence of the navy, and that he had been advised of Spence's arrival at Nashville, in the state of Tennessee—And observed that colonel Burr had proceeded too far to retreat; that he (col. Burr) had numerous & powerful friends in the U. States, who stood pledged to support him with their fortunes, and that he must succeed. That he, the said Dr. E. Bollman, had written to col. Burr on the subject of provisions, and that he expected a supply would be sent from New York, and also from Norfolk, where col. Burr had strong connections. I did not see or hear from the doctor again until the 5th instant, when I called on him the second time. The mail having arrived the day before, I asked him whether he had received any intelligence from col. Burr. He informed me that he had seen a letter from col. Burr of the 30th of October, in which he, (col. Burr) gave assurances that he should be at Natchez with 2000 men on the 20th of December, inst. where he should wait until he heard
* Truxton.
from this place. That he would be followed by 4000 men more, and that he, col. Burr, if he had chosen, could have raised or got 12,000 as easy as 6,000, but that he did not think that number necessary—confiding fully in this information I became indifferent about farther disguise. I then told the doctor that I should most certainly oppose col. Burr if he came this way. He replied that they must come here for equipments and shipping, and observed that he did not know what had passed between col. Burr and myself, obliged at a sham defence and waved the subject.
From the documents in my possession and the several communications, verbal as well as written, from the said doctor Erick Bollman, on this subject, I feel no hesitation in declaring under the solemn obligation of an oath, that he has committed misprision of treason against the government of the United States. (Signed) JAMES WILKINSON. Signed and sworn to this, 14th day of December 1806, before me one of the justices of the peace of this county. (Signed) J. CARRICK.
PHILADELPHIA, July 25, 1806. DEAR SIR—Mr. Swartwout, the brother of colonel S. of New York, being on his way down the Mississippi, and presuming that he may pass you at some port on the river, has requested of me a letter of introduction which I give with pleasure, as he is a most amiable young man, and highly respectable from his character and connections. I pray you to afford him any friendly offices which his situation may require, and beg you to pardon the trouble which this may give you. With entire respect, Your friend and obe. dient servant, A. BURR. His excellency gen. Wilkinson.
Valuable Family Medicines.
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Doct. Rawson's much celebrated Worm Powders, Which have proved very efficacious in dislodging and expelling worms from the bowels of children, they are also a gentle purge, and the most proper physic that can be given to children to remove crudities of every kind from the first passages—ample directions accompany each package—50 cents.
Hinckley's infallible remedy for the Piles. A certain cure for that disagreeable complaint. 50 cents a box.
Doct. Cooley's Rheumatic Pills. Good in all Rheumatic complaints.—Price 42 cents.
Very particular directions accompany each of these valuable medicines.