Alexandria daily advertiser (Alexandria [Va.]), 1807-11-17 00:00:00

Alexandria Daily Advertiser.
VOL. VII.]
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 1807.
[No. 2015.]
Sales at Vendue.
On every Tuesday and Friday WILL BE SOLD At the Vendue Store, corner of Prince and Water streets. A Variety of Dry Goods, Groceries, &c. Particulars of which will be expressed in the bills of the day—All kinds of goods which are on limitation and the prices which are established, can at any time be viewed and purchased at the lowest limitation and prices.
P. G. Marsteller, v. m.
Public Sale.
On TUESDAY next will be sold at the Ven- due-Store, on a credit, Ten Crates of Queensware hand- somely assorted.
P. G. Marsteller.
November 12. dts 195 Shares Alexandria Ma- rine Insurance Stock for sale by CATLETT & FISK.
October 16. d JOSEPH RIDDLE, Has received by the ship William and John , from Liverpool, FALL GOODS.
October 24. d WANTED A middling aged woman, capable of manag- ing a house. To one of good character libe- ral wages will be given. Enquire of the Prin- ter.
Sep. 9. d TO RENT, And possession given on the 14th of November next, The three story Brick House On the corner of King and Columbia-streets, now occupied by Mr. John Roberts.—For terms apply to Col. GEORGE DENEALE, living next door, or to the subscriber.
Nicholas Voss, City of Washington, Oct. 20. d The substantial Ship LEONIDAS, Upwards of 500 tons burthen now ready to receive a cargo. Freight to Li- verpool or Clyde, would be preferred. Apply to James Patton.
ALSO, The good Ship GEORGE, Cap. WALKER; Burthen 207 tons; will be ready for a car- go in ten days. Apply to the Master on board Nov. 10. d James Patton.
October 29. d Freight wanted For Brig IZETTE , John Barnes, Master; Burthen eighteen hundred bar- rels or two hundred and sixty hogs- heads. Also, for sale on board said Brig. 45000 feet of Lumber; New-England Rum; Potatoes and Oats. Apply to William Yeaton.
November 2. d For Freight or Charter, The Ship MARY , Henry Poddick, Master; Burthen about three hundred hogsheads, is a good vessel, & will be ready to receive a cargo in a few days.—For terms ap- ply to Lawrasan and Fowle.
Who have for sale, on board said ship 1200 bushels Liverpool Coals , for grates, October 20.
LANDING THIS DAY, FROM ON BOARD THE SCHOONER FARR-PLAY , AND FOR SALE, 75 hds 15 tierces and 16 barrels of first quality Sugars 33 hogsheads and a few tierces of retailing Molasses. Apply to Mordecai Miller.
October 31. d
Two Stoves to Let.
Enquire at this Office.
Nov. 7 FOR SALE, A Likely Negro Girl, about 16 years of age accustomed to the care of child- ren and cleaning a house. Apply to the Nov. 7. d. PRINTER.
St. Andrew's Society.
A STATED quarterly meeting of the St. Andrew's Society will be held at Gadsby's hotel on Tuesday evening the 17th inst. at six P. M. By order of the President, Donald Macleod, Sec'y. November 11 dft
New Brewery.
ISAAC ENTWISLE & CO. HAVE commenced Brewing, and have on hand BEER of a good quality ready for delivery. Grains to be had at the brewhouse, and Yeast at Entwisle's store, lower end of Prince street. Cash given for good clean Barley, at the brewery. November 7. d12t
COFFEE.
5000lb. good COFFEE, 50lb. NUTMEGS, With as usual, a general assortment of WINES, LIQUORS and GROCERIES, for sale on reasonable terms by Joseph Mandeville, Corner of King and Fairfax streets. October 30.
JUST RECEIVED,
By the Schooner THOMAS , from SALEM , and for sale by LEWIS DEBLOIS, 20 tons of RUSSIA HEMP, RUSSIA DUCK, RAVEN OILS Also for sale, The said Schooner Thomas If applied for immediately to the Captain on board at Hepburn's wharf, or to LEWIS DEBLOIS.
October 15. d
JAMES SANDERSON,
Offers for sale very low, 25 hogsheads Muscovado Sugar 70 bags green Coffee 15 hogsheads well flavored Rum 5 pipes Cogniac Brandy 12 quarter casks Sherry Wine 12 bales Tennessee Cotton And as usual A general assortment of the best Wines, Spirituos Liquors, Teas and Groceries. October 12. d
Public Sale.
PURSUANT to a deed of trust from John Spencer to the subscribers, made to se- cure the payment of a certain sum of money to Cuthbert Powell , will be sold for cash to the highest bidder, at the dwelling-house on the premises, on SATURDAY the 21st day of November next,
Two Tracts of Land,
Lying in the neighborhood of the Gum-Spring, in Loudoun county, adjoining each other and binding on the lands of Thompson and Veitch and Benjamin James, containing one hundred and fifty-two acres.—The sale will take place at twelve o'clock.
Israel Lacey, } Trustees. Charles Lewis, } Stephen Beard, } October 15. dts
Public Sale.
In pursuance of a decree of the Superior Court of Chancery, holden at the capitol in Richmond, March 5, 1807, will be sold, on the premises on THURSDAY , the 26th instant at half past 3 o'clock in the after- noon, to the highest bidder for cash
A House & Lot—Also, an unim- proved Lot, situated on the north side of Duke street, between Columbus & Alfred-streets— the property of Amos Alexander.
Cuthbert Powell, } Com'rs. Phineas Janney, } Thomas Janney. } November 2, dts
Fall Goods.
JOSEPH JANNEY
Has received by the late arrivals, an extensive assortment of FALL GOODS, 10th mo. 26, d6t 3tawtf
TO BE RENTED,
A three story Brick Dwelling and Ware house, on King and Henry-streets—together or separate. Likewise, on the opposite side, a two story Brick Dwelling-House. For terms apply to Jonathan and M. Scholfield.
May 1. co
Bank of Potomac,
November 5, 1807
NOTICE is hereby given the Stockhold- ers of this institution, that a dividend of four per cent. on the capital stock for the half year ending this day, will be paid them or their legal representatives, on Wednesday next, the 11th instant.
By order of the President and directors. Ch. PAGE, Chash'r. November 7. eo4w
Removal.
JOHN TUCKER,
Has removed from King-street to his whar- adjoining Messrs. Jonah Thompson & Sons, where he has for sale— 1700 SPANISH HIDES 2000 bushels coarse Turkey-Island SALT First quality Muscovado SUGAR in hogs- heads and barrels—and GROCERIES as usual. He also takes the liberty to inform his friends in the country, that he has a large and commodious Warehouse for the reception of flour, either by water or waggons, and would take in flour on storage. October 10. ed10d 3taw3w
NOW LANDING
At Vowell's wharf, from on board sloop Maria Antoinette , from St. Jago de Cuba , and for sale 62 hds green Coffee 65 barrels green Coffee 226 boxes Segars, superior qua ALSO ON HAND, 25 barrels Coffee 1700 lbs Bees Wax 270 Spanish Hides 10,000 bushels Salt.
Wadsworth and Butler,
Sept. 3. dlweotf
This is to give notice,
THAT the subscribers of Alexandria coun- ty, in the district of Columbia, have ob- tained, from the orphan's court of said coun- ty, letters testamentary on the estate of Su- sanna Hamilton, late of the county aforesaid, deceased: All persons having claims against the said deceased, are hereby warned to ex- hibit them, with the vouchers thereof, to the subscribers, on or before the 30th day of A- pril next, or they may by law be excluded from all benefit to said estate; and those in- debted thereto are requested to make immedia- te payment.—Given under our hands this 30th day of October, 1807.
Andrew Jamieson, } Ex'rs. Rich'd. Weightman, } October 30. co3w
Gun & Pistol Manufactory,
Lower end of King-street near the water. THE subscriber begs leave to inform the public, that he continues to carry on the above business in its various branches—also to render his sincere thanks for the liberal en- couragement shown him during a space of five years, and hopes the execution of his work may merit a continuance of the same.
Robert Nafn. eo2w
November 5. Guns, pistols, rifles, &c. stocked and repaired in the neatest manner and at the short- est notice.
ONE CENT Reward.
RAN AWAY from the subscriber, JOHN RISING , an apprentice to the sail-making business; between 18 and 19 years of age, about 5 feet 9 inches high. Whoever takes up said runaway or secures him so that I get him again, shall receive the above reward, but no expenses. All persons are cautioned from harboring, employing, or carrying him off. I will put the law in force against any such offender.
Daniel M'Dougal. eo3t
November 12. dts
JOHN LLOYD,
Has received per the William and John , and the George from Liverpool, a general as- sortment of
FALL GOODS,
Which are for sale on the usual terms. October 26. d6t6otm
District of Columbia.
NOTICE is hereby given to all whom it may concern, that the Consul General of Portugal to the United States of America, has authorised the subscriber to legalize all papers that may be necessary for vessels bound from the ports of this district to any in Portugal or Madeira.
Those masters of vessels who may omit having their bills of health thus certified, will be liable to undergo quarantine.
It is requisite that any article shipped for account of a Portuguese subject, should be declared and sworn to, as Portuguese proper- ty; and the bills of lading legalized as above.
Lewis Deblois. d
May 15. d
Ten Dollars Reward.
STRAYED.
From Ganser's Meadow, from which he was turned out by his hostler, with a view of driving him to the Stable:
A SORREL HORSE, about 15 1/2 hands high, stately & well made, with a small white spot on the forehead, several white spots on the shoulders, and a bob tail. He is a trot and canter—he is supposed to have gone up the Leesburg or Centreville roads.
The above reward, & all reasonable charges, will be paid on delivering him to the subscri- ber.
Charles Bennet.
November 9. d
NOTICE.
THOSE who have claims against the estate of the late Wm. Oxley an insolvent debtor, have come to my hands. The creditors of that estate will therefore be pleas- ed on that day to attend at my office to receive their respective dividends.
Thomas Swann, Trustee. Nov. 10. d15D.
Lands and Mill-Seat for Sale.
BY virtue of a decree of the Superior Court of Chancery, holden at the capi- tol in Richmond, October 2, 1807, will be sold at Public Auction, on the premises,
Ten acres and a half of land
lying on the east side of the Georgetown road, about half a mile from Alexandria court-house, either all together or divided into four lots of equal quantity as may suit the purchasers.
A full square, containing ra- ther more than two acres, on the south side of Duke street and eastward of the well and white house belonging to the subscriber.
Part of a square to the south- ward of the last-mentioned, and west of Cha- Page's and Philip G. Marsteller's houses.
The Spring Garden, about 4 acres, say two squares, and taking in the streets will be near 5 acres.
The last three mentioned parcels will be sold together or divided, as may be thought most convenient to buyers.
A moiety of ten acres near Cameron Run and the Colchester road, bought in company with Bird and Ricketts.
A valuable Mill Seat on Holmes's Run, a- bove the new turnpike road and not far from the trough hill, between four and five miles from Alexandria.
The sale to commence on the 23d cur- rent, on the George-Town road, and continue, if the weather is suitable, till the whole is dis- posed of.
The terms of sale will be made known be- fore or at the time of sale.
Wm. HARTSHORNE, Re- ceiver of the effects of JOHN SUT- TON , and JOHN MANDEVILLE , under the order of the high Court of Chancery of Virginia. 11th month 2d dts

TRIAL
OF COLONEL A. BURR.
MOTION FOR COMMITMENT.
EXAMINATION OF EVIDENCE.
MONDAY, October 5.
LEMUEL HENRY
Introduced as a witness on the part of the U. S.
On the first evening of the arrival of col. B at the town of Washington, after his submission to Mr. Meade I was introduced to him by col. M c Kee, Burr, M c Kee, Jas. Callier and myself were the only persons present. Soon after my introduction the subject of the expedition was introduced on the carpet. In the course of conversation Mr. Callier or myself observed, that if he (col. Burr) had gone over to Washington county on the Mobile, and impressed upon the minds of the people there, that his enterprize was a secret one against the Spaniards and with the sanction of our government, he might have procured men and armed vessels enough to have taken the town of Mobile, at which place he would have got a sufficiency of arms and ammunition to have kept possession, or armed vessels to convey his troops to whatever place he pleased. Col. Burr then began to enquire into the situation of the Mobile, & Washington county and perhaps of Pensacola; but dwelt upon the difficulties to which the people of Washington county were subjected from the exactions of the Spaniards and their unfriendly disposition towards us. To which col. Burr made this reply, that he was surprized the people had never attempted to do themselves justice, that he had seen with regret their memorials to congress read with contempt and neglect; while they were reading the memorials would be scraping their feet, and they were no sooner read than the house passed on to some other business. He then said that government having neglected them, it was a natural right and engrafted on the constitution, for the people either to erect a government of their own, or to take themselves under such other government as they were surprised to find that government in Washington county had not done it before.
Mr. McRae. Had Burr previously informed you of the nature of the enterprise on which he was going? A He had not. But it was the general rumor, that he was going against the Spanish colonies. Some of his partisans at least held out that idea, and declared that there was nothing meditated against the U. S.
Mr. Hay. Did Burr express himself with any earnestness in this conversation? A He did, with great emphasis. Mr. Hay, are you a member of the legislative council of the Mississippi territory? A I am. Q From what part? A From the county of Washington, and Mr. Callier represents it in the house of representatives. Mr. Hay. Do you recollect Mr. Robert New? A I do. Q Did he descend the river with colonel Burr? A I so understood. Q Was he in company with colonel Burr? A He lodged in the same room, and they seemed to be in the habits of the strictest intimacy. Mr. Hay. Did Mr. New make you any proposition?
Mr. Wickham objected to this question. What is Mr. New's conduct to col. Burr? Mr. New is a gentleman of respectable connections in this part of the country. If it be necessary, why not directly proceed against him, instead of thus employing his conduct to criminate colonel Burr?
Mr. Hay. Mr. New, sir, was an agent of colonel Burr, and concerned in this enterprise. I wish to shew by this witness, that Mr. New offered to sell him a number of muskets. As to Mr. New's being a respectable man, it is a melancholy fact, that there were a number of men who were then respectable embarked in this enterprise, and who will have to regret, to the latest day of their life, that they have been thus deluded.
Chief Justice to the witness. Do you know whether there was any connection between Mr. Burr and Mr. New? A I know nothing positive about it. They appeared to be very intimate, and Mr. New sometimes went on colonel Burr's business. He did not deny that he came down the river as one of those associated in an enterprise, with the objects of which I am not particularly acquainted.
Mr. Hay. There is the strongest presumption to believe, that these were the intended arms that were brought down the river.
The Chief Justice permitted the question to be put. [Mr. Henry's evidence to be continued.]
FROM THE LONDON GAZETTE, EXTRA.
Downing-street, September 13.
Dispatches of which the following are copies, have been received by viscount Castlereagh, one of his majesty's principal secretaries of state, from admiral Gambier, and lieut. gen. the right hon. lord Cathcart, K. T. the commanders of his majesty's naval and military forces, in the Baltic sea.
Citadel of Copenhagen, Sept. 8.
MY LORD,
It has fallen to my lot to have the great satisfaction of forwarding to your lordship the ratified capitulation of the town, and citadel of Copenhagen, including the surrender of the Danish fleet, and arsenal of this port, which are placed at his majesty's disposal.
The object of securing this fleet having been attained, every other provision of a tendency to wound the feelings or irritate the nation has been avoided; and although the bombardment and cannonade have made considerable havoc and destruction in the town, not one shot was fired into it till after it was summoned, with the offer of the most advantageous terms, nor a single shot after the first disposition to capitulate; on the contrary, the firing which lasted three nights from his majesty's batteries was considerably abated on the 2d and was only renewed on the 3d to its full vigor, on supposing from the quantity of shells thrown from the place, that there was a determination to hold out.
On the evening of the 5th of September, a letter was sent by the Danish general to propose an armistice of twenty-four hours, for preparing an agreement on which articles of capitulation might be founded. The armistice was declined as tending to unnecessary delay, and the works were continued; but the firing was countermanded, and lieut. col. Murray, was sent to explain that no proposal of capitulation would be listened to unless accompanied by the surrender of the fleet.
This basis having been admitted by a subsequent letter, on the 6th, major gen. sir A. Wellesley, whom I had sent for, for this purpose, from his command in the country, where he had distinguished himself and so advantageous a position to him, appointed with sir Home Popham and lieut. col. Murray, to prepare and sign articles of capitulation; and those officers having insisted on proceeding immediately to business, the capitulation was drawn up in the night between the 6th and 7th.
The ratification was exchanged in the course of the morning, and at four in the afternoon of the same day, lieut. general Burrard proceeded to take possession.
The British grenadiers present, with detachments from all other corps of cavalry and infantry, under the command of col. Cameron of the 79th regiment, with 2 brigades of artillery, marched into the citadel; while major gen. Spencer having embarked his brigade at the Kalk Brantziere, landed in the dock yard and took possession of each of the line of battle ships, and all the arsenals: the Danish guard withdrawing when those of his majesty were ready to replace them, and proper officers attending to deliver stores as far as inventories could be made up.
The town being in a state of the greatest ferment and disorder, I most willingly acceded to the request, that our troops should not be quartered in it, and that neither officers or soldiers should enter it for some days; and having command or possession of the citadel, whenever it might be necessary to use it. I had no objection to leaving the other gates in the hands of the troops of his Danish majesty, together with the police of the place.
We have consented to the re-establishment of the post; but all arrivals and departures were to be at and from the citadel. This work is in good condition, very strong and well stored with ordnance and ammunition.
The amount of the garrison of the town is not easily ascertained. The regular troops were not numerous; but the number of the batteries which fired at the same time, together with the floating defences, proves that there must have been a very great number of the militia and burghers, with irregular forces; and their ordnance was well served.
Considering the advanced position in which his majesty's troops have been placed for the last fortnight, our loss (highly as I prize the value of every officer or soldier who has fallen or been wounded) has been comparatively small.
The zeal, spirit and perseverance of every
rank in the army have been truly characteristic of the British nation; and the king's German legion are entitled to a full share in this commendation.
All the generals, and indeed each officer, have rendered himself conspicuous, in proportion to his command, and the opportunities which have occurred to all.
The staff have done themselves the greatest credit, and have been of all the service that could be desired in their several departments.
Colonel D'Arcy, the chief engineer, and every engineer under him, have given the most unequivocal proofs of science and indefatigable industry; the works under their direction have gone on with fresh parties without ceasing.
General Bloomfield, and the officers and corps of the royal artillery, have done great honor to themselves and to that branch of his majesty's service, of which their fire upon the gun-boats, and the rapidity and success of the mortar practice, afford sufficient proof; nor is the distribution of battering ordnance and of so much ammunition at so many points in this extensive line, in short a period, a small proof of the method and resources of that corps.
Lt. col. Smith, with the 82d regt. under his command, held the post at the Windmill on the left, which for the greater part of the time was the most exposed to the gun-boats and sorries of the enemy; and the unremitting attentions of that officer claims particular notice.
By the naval blockade the force opposed to us has been limited to the resources of this and the adjacent islands, separated only by narrow ferries; and almost every way of assistance has been anticipated, and every acquisition of boats, guns and stores, has been most amply and effectually provided for with the greatest dispatch and the most perfect cordiality; and every possible attention has been paid, and every accommodation given, by every officer in that service from admiral Gambier downwards.
A battalion of seamen and marines, with three divisions of carpenters were landed on the 5th, under capt. Watson, of H. M. S. Inflexible; and had the effort been made, which would have been resorted to in a few days, if the place had not capitulated, their services in the passage of the ditch, would have been distinguished.
I send this dispatch by lieut. Cathcart, aide de camp, who has seen my first that has occurred here and at Stralsund, & who will be able to give any further details that may be required. I have the honour to be, &c.
(Signed)
CATHCART.
From the National Intelligencer, Nov. 16.
On Friday last, we understand, the secretary of the navy laid before the committee of the house of representatives on aggressions, a detailed statement of the circumstances attending the outrage committed on the Chesapeake, together with those which occurred prior and subsequently to that event. To gratify the public solicitude on this important subject, we publish the following opinion of the court of Inquiry and hope to be shortly enabled to submit to the public the other documents connected with this affair, which are said to be in the highest degree interesting.
At a Court of Enquiry assembled on board the U. S. ship Chesapeake, in the harbor of Norfolk and state of Virginia, by order of the hon. Robert Smith, secretary of the navy for the United States, and continued by adjournment from day to day from Monday the 5th day of October, 1807, until Wednesday the 4th day of Nov. 1807.
PRESENT,
CAPTAIN ALEXANDER MURRAY, President, and Captains Isaac Hull, and Isaac Chauncy, } Members thereof.
The following opinion and report was unanimously given, and directed by the court to be transmitted to the honorable the secretary of the navy of the United States.
PURSUANT to an order from the honorable Robert Smith, secretary of the navy of the U. S. to captain Alexander Murray directed, dated the 12th day of September, in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and seven, the court proceeded to enquire into the causes of the surrender of the Chesapeake, a frigate of the U. S. then under the command of James Barron, esquire, a capt. in the navy of the U. S. to a British vessel of war, which surrender was made (as is in the said order stated) without that defence
being made which might have been expected from the known valor of American arms; and having heard all the evidence adduced, as well by the Judge Advocate, as by the said captain James Barron, and having maturely and thoroughly considered the same (captain James Barron having declined to offer any defence) REPORT to the honorable the secretary of the navy of the U. S. as by his said warrant is required, a state of the matters touching the said surrender, together with their opinion thereon, as followeth:
1. It appears to the court, that the U. S. ship Chesapeake, then under the command of James Barron, esq. a captain in the navy of the U. S. sailed from Hampton Roads, on an intended cruise in the Mediterranean sea, on the morning of the 22d of June last past, having on board a crew consisting of more than three hundred and seventy men, and completely equipped with every thing necessary for such a ship of war, sailing on such a cruise.
2. It appears to the court, that captain Barron was appointed commodore of the ships and vessels destined for the Mediterranean service on the 15th day of May last past, and hoisted his broad pendant on board the Chesapeake, the first time he came on board of her after her arrival in Hampton Roads, to wit, on or about the 6th day of June last past.
3. It appears to the court, that commodore Barron visited the Chesapeake only twice during the period she remained in Hampton Roads, and before he came on board to proceed to sea; on neither of which occasions, did he examine particularly into her state and condition.
4. It appears to the court, that the guns of the Chesapeake were never exercised before she proceeded to sea; that her crew were quartered but a few days previous to that time, and had never been called to quarters more than three times prior to her sailing for sea.
5. It appears to the court, that the ship was reported to commodore Barron to be ready for sea on the 17th day of June, that he came on board on the 21st, and that the ship sailed on the morning of the 22d of June last past.
6. It appears to the court, that antecedent to the sailing of the Chesapeake there had been received on board of her some persons who had been claimed by the British government as deserters from their service, but who were not ordered to be delivered up by the American officers. That there was also a report in circulation, that a threat had been used by the captain of the British ship of war Melampus, to take these men from the Chesapeake. That commodore Barron had full knowledge of the facts that such men were on board his ship, that they had been demanded by the British government, and had not been delivered up, the court are perfectly satisfied; but no positive evidence has been adduced to prove, that the report of the threat above mentioned was communicated to him before his ship sailed.
7. It appears to the court, that the Chesapeake in proceeding from Hampton Roads to sea, passed a British squadron at anchor in Lynhaven bay, who at the time of her passing them were making signals to each other, which was not only reported to commodore Barron by one of his officers, but actually observed by himself.
8. It appears to the court, that the British ship of war Leopard of fifty guns, one of the squadron then at anchor within the limits of the U. S. weighed immediately after these signals were thrown out, and stood to sea.
9. It does not appear to the court, that at this time there was any vessel in sight, or any other object to induce her to go to sea, but the Chesapeake.
10. It appears to the court, that at the time the Leopard got under weigh, the wind was at south south-west, and therefore fair for her to proceed to sea; but that instead of availing herself of this to clear the land, she hauled by the wind, close round cape Henry, and stood to the southward, under easy sail; thereby shewing that it was not her intention to get off the land speedily.
11. It appears to the court, that after this the wind became light and baffling, and likely to shift, and came out from the eastward; that when this happened, the Leopard shortened sail, and stood to the eastward.
12. It appears to the court, that after this the wind did come out from about south-south-east, and that the Leopard then haling this got the weather gauge, preserved it, by tacking in shore, when the Chesapeake did so in order to get off her pilot, and after the Chesapeake again stood off to the eastward, that the Leopard wore, and bore down for her.

12. It appears to the court, that when the Leopard tacked and stood in shore, on the same tack with the Chesapeake, that her lower deck ports were all triced up.  14. It appears to the court, that when the Leopard ran down for the Chesapeake, she rounded to on her starboard quarter, and to windward of her, and that at this time her champions were out of her guns.  15. It appears to the court, that commo- dore Barron was upon deck, observing the Leopard, during the time these manœuvres were practising, and these appearances ex- plained.  16. The court is of opinion, that the cir- cumstances above stated were in themselves suspicious, as to have furnished suffi- cient warning to a prudent, discreet and at- tentive officer, of the probable designs of a ship of war conducted in that way, and ought to have induced commo- dore Barron to have prepared his ship for action, especially with the information he possessed of the situation of his crew generally, of those who had been demanded by the British go- vernment particularly, and of the general state of the ship at that time.  17. It appears to the court, that commo- dore Barron nevertheless did not order his ship to be cleared for action, and that he did not call his men to quarters.  18. It appears to the court, that when the Leopard came alongside of the Chesapeake an officer was sent from her, with a com- munication from captain Humphries, the captain of the Leopard, to commo- dore Barron, which the latter could not and did not understand, but very correctly conclud- ed to be a demand with which he ought not and could not comply, and one which, if refused, would be enforced if possi- ble.  19. It appears to the court, that although such was the impression and impression of commo- dore Barron at this time, yet that he did not still order his ship to be prepared for action, although ample time was allow- ed for that purpose, the British officer be- ing detained on board the Chesapeake from 35 to 45 minutes.  20. The court is of opinion, that the neg- lect of commo- dore Barron to prepare his ship for action under such circumstances, is a direct breach of the fourth article of the rules and regulations for the govern- ment of the navy of the United States, a- dopted by an act of the Congress of the United States, passed on the 23d day of April 1800; entitled "An Act for the better government of the navy of the U. States."  21. It appears to the court, that after the British officer left the Chesapeake, bearing a positive refusal from commo- dore Barron to the demand which had been made by captain Humphries, and after commo- dore Bar- ron was himself satisfied that an attack on his ship would be made, he did not take prompt, necessary and efficient means to prepare his ship for battle—That his first order was merely to clear his gun deck and the second given after the lapse of some time, was to get his men to quarters se- cretly, without beat of drum; although with such a crew as he had on board, and in such a situation as the ship then was, it was not to be expected that such orders could be effectually accomplished.  22. It appears to the court, that the con- duct of commo- dore Barron during the at- tack of the Leopard manifested great inde- cision and a disposition to negotiate, rather than a determination bravely to defend his ship. That he repeatedly hailed the Leo- pard during her attack upon him—That he drew his men from their guns to lower- ing down-boats to send on board of the at- tacking ship, and that he ordered his first lieutenant from his quarters during the at- tack, to carry a message on board of the Leopard, at that time firing on him.  23. It appears to the court, that during the attack, commo- dore Barron used lan- guage in the presence of his men calculat- ed to dispirit his crew, by ordering them to keep down that they would all be cut to pieces.  24. It appears to the court, that commo- dore Barron ordered the colors of the Che- saapeake to be struck, and that they were struck, before a single gun of any kind was fired from her; and that at the time they were so struck, her main deck battery was in a situation which would have enabled the return of a broadside in a very short time.  25. The court is therefore of opinion that the Chesapeake was prematurely surrende- red, at a time when she was nearly prepared for battle, and when the injuries sustained either on the ship or crew did not make such a surrender then necessary; and that for this commo- dore Barron falls under a part of the 6th article of rules and regula- tions for the government of the navy of the U. S. adopted by an act of the Congress
of the U. S. passed on the 23d day of April 1800, entitled "An act for the better go- vernment of the navy of the U. S."  26. The court is of opinion, that altho' the conduct of commo- dore Barron, before and during the attack of the Leopard evinced great inattention to his duty and want of decision, yet that during that at- tack he exposed his person, and did not manifest either by his orders or actions a- ny personal fear, or want of courage.  27. It appears to the court, that although the Chesapeake might and ought to have been better defended than she was, yet that she was not in a situation at the time of the attack made upon her, to have enabled so gallant a defence being made as might be expected. Some of her guns were not securely fitted in their carriages, some of her sponges and wads were too large, but few of her powder horns were filled, her matches were not primed, some of her rammers were not in their proper places, her marines were neither supplied with e- nough cartridges, or were those which they had of the proper size. None of these cir- cumstances however could have influenced commo- dore Barron in striking his colors, because they were not known to him at the time.  28. The court is of opinion, that the conduct of all the other officers of the ship, except those whose duty it was to have re- medied the deficiencies before stated, and of the crew generally, was proper, com- mendable and honorable.  A true copy, I. W. TAZEWELL, Judge Advocate.
CONGRESS.  HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.  WEDNESDAY, November 11.  Mr. Porter presented the petition of O- liver Evans, stating, that by a late decision in the circuit court of the U.S. the patent issued to the petitioner for improvements in the art of manufacturing flour and meal, had been declared insufficient, and void; and praying that the department of state may be authorised to grant him a new pa- tent.  Referred to a select committee of five members.  Mr. Rhea, of Tennessee presented a letter received from the postmaster gene- ral, inclosing a number of petitions for new post-offices, &c.  Referred to the committee on the post- office and post-roads.  Messrs. Moore, Lewis, Hoge and S. Smith each presented petitions respecting post-roads or offices in their several dis- tricts, which were referred.  Mr. Jeremiah Morrow said, that an act for the sale of public lands had been passed in 1796, which provided that certain sec- tions should be reserved for the disposal of congress in each township; in 1800 an act was passed authorising the surveyor gene- ral to lease these sections, parts of which were accordingly leased. An act had been since passed authorising the sale of the sec- tions heretofore reserved for the disposi- tion of congress, with a provision attached to it, that no section should be sold at a lower rate than 8 dollars per acre. This price was so extravagantly high, that it ap- peared from the report of the secretary of the treasury only four sections had been sold in the course of the last year. To re- duce the price fixed, so as that all the pub- lic lands might be sold and occupied, he moved the following resolution—He re- marked that a similar resolution was last year referred to the committee on public lands, who reported a bill; but from the press of business, it was not acted on:  Resolved, That the committee on public lands be directed to enquire into the expe- diency of making further provision for the sale of the lands reserved for the disposi- tion of congress, and that they have leave to report by bill or otherwise. Agreed.  Mr. Dawson said, within a few days a number of gentlemen in the house had expressed much feeling on the subject of the injuries which had been received from a foreign power, and seemed desirous of a minute enquiry into the business. He rejoined at these expressions of indigna- tion. Whether it would be proper not on- ly to speak, but to act, depended on cir- cumstances not within their control. He was informed by the secretary of war that there were in the magazines of the U. S. a great number of stands of arms, of our own manufacture, which were daily in- creasing. It appeared that some of the states were in want of arms; the distribu- tion of these would be serviceable both to the U. S. and to the states individually.— For this reason he moved the following re- solution:
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to enquire into the expediency of selling to the individual states or territories who may wish to purchase any arms or ord- nance owned by the U. S. and which may be parted with without injury to the pub- lic; and that they report by bill or other- wise.  Mr. Nelson had no objection to the prin- ciple embraced by the resolution, but tho' it was improperly referred. He moved that the resolution should be amended so as to refer it to the committee on so much of the president's message as relates to mi- litary establishments, &c.  Mr. Dawson had no objection.  The resolution thus amended was agreed to.  Mr. Randolph said, that at the last ses- sion of congress, an act had been passed prohibiting the importation of slaves into any port or place in the U. S. after the 1st day of January next. One of the sec- tions of that act contained a principle in his opinion totally subversive of the right of property in slave holders. He had wished the subject to have been considered at the last session; but from the late period at which it had been brought forward, the house had declined acting upon it. He would say no more upon the subject at this time, but wished a bill to be brought in for amending the act, for which pur- pose he moved the following resolution, which was adopted, and a committee ac- cordingly appointed.  Resolved, That a committee be appoint- ed to enquire into the expediency of a- mending the act, entitled "An act to pro- hibit the importation of slaves into any port or place within the jurisdiction of the U. S. from and after the 1st day of Jan. in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and eight."  A message was received from the senate by Mr. Ois, their secretary, informing the house that they had chosen the Rev. Mr. McCormick a Chaplain on their part, in the place of Dr. Gantt, who declined accepting his appointment.  Agreeably to the order of the day, the house went into a committee of the whole, Mr. Pitkin in the chair, on the bill for erecting a bridge across the river Poto- mac; and on a motion made by Mr. Nel- son to strike out the 1st section of the bill, a debate arose, which occupied the re- mainder of the day.  The motion was supported by Messrs. Nelson and Key, and opposed by Mr. Lewis, when, about 3 o'clock, the com- mittee rose, reported progress, and ob- tained leave to sit again.  THURSDAY, Nov. 12.  After the presentation of various peti- tions, and the receiving of several reports, all of which were either of a private na- ture, or of subordinate importance, the house resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Mr. Basset in the chair, on the report of the committee of elections on the contested election of Wm. M'Creery, when a long and interesting debate ensued, which was continued until the usual hour of adjournment.  Messrs. Findley, Sturges, Smilie, J. Clay, and Fisk advocated; and Messrs. Sawyer, Randolph, and D. R. Williams opposed the report, which is in favor of the sitting member.  The committee rose, reported progress, and obtained leave to sit again.  Alexandria Daily Advertiser.  TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 17.  Extract of a letter from an English mer- chant at Monte Video, dated 7th Aug. 1807, received at Boston.  "All our expectations, by the coward- ice and misconduct of the commander in chief, are destroyed. He has been igno- miniously defeated at Buenos Ayres, and cast a disgrace on the British arms, which they will never recover. The army he took with him would have conquered the whole province, had they been directed by a brave and skilful officer; they feel it, and are more disgusted than we can be. One month, and we entirely evacuate the coun- try. It is reported the troops are to ren- dezvous at Rio Janeria, for orders from Great Britain."  A dreadful and almost unexampled gale of wind has been experienced on the coast of Ireland the 5th and 6th Sept. The lives lost are numerous, and the damage sus- tained immense.  The emperor of Morocco issued a de- cree on the 27th of June last, by which the Jews at Megadore, to the number of 7000, were obliged to leave the town at an hour's notice. The ostensible reason as-
signed for this act of rigor was, that the Jews corrupted the morals of the Moors, but the real one, a confiscation of Jewish property.
Their houses were appraised by the em- peror's agents at about one eighth their real value, which was paid to the unfortu- nate Israelites and a small portion of ground assigned them to build upon.
Port of Alexandria.  ARRIVED, Ship John Jones, Cox, Georgetown — Ballast to Load Brig President, Smith / Antigua — Ballast to John Tucker. Schr. Citizen, Sturges, New York — Sundries, to different merchants. —Freighter, Thomas, Portland — Sundries to the master.  CLEARED, Brig Corporal Trim, Elwell, Gloucester (Mass.) by Lawrason & Fowl:
WM. BARTLEMAN, HAS RECEIVED, her schooner Citizen from New-York, A fresh supply of Groceries. 77 barrels prime PORK, 4000 lbs. CHEESE, various qualities, and A good assortment of Patent SHOT. November 17
Lost yesterday, A SMALL BUNCH OF KEYS, on a ring of steel, about one inch diameter. The finder shall receive one dollar reward on leav- ing them with the printer. November 17
WOOD. A LARGE quantity of Wood will be laid off in the Forest of Washington on the Leesburgh road, and arranged in lots to suit purchasers. Also—A small tract of Land for sale at the same place. Those desirous of supplying themselves with fire-wood, posts, rails, &c. will please make application within 10 days from this date to John Ball, AGENT. Nov. 12, [14]
Removal. Rea and Taylor, Coach-Makers, RETURN their sincere thanks for the liberal encouragement they have re- ceived since their commencing business in this town, and acquaint their friends and the public, that they have removed their manu- factory to Fairfax street, opposite to Rick- ett's and Newton's brick buildings, in the large brick warehouse occupied by Janney and Irish, where they will endeavor to give ge- neral satisfaction to those who shall favor them with their commands. Those gentlemen who may have carriages to repair, may rest assured they shall be pro- tected from sun-shine or rain, and not in any manner be disappointed. REA & TAYLOR. November 13. d2t co3t 2ay4w
MR. GENERIS Has the pleasure to inform his Friends and the Public, THAT he has commenced his Practising Balls, and will continue them as heretofore. Mr. GENERIS begs the parents who have children to be instructed, will please to send them as soon as possible, so as to give them an opportunity of improving sufficiently, as he intends to have an Exhibition at the con- clusion of his school for their amusement which will serve to create ambition. November 12.
FOR SALE, Or to be RENTED for one or more years; THE whole of the REAL ESTATE be- longing to Pressley Carr Lane, lying in and adjacent to the town of Centreville, in Fairfax county. This property consists of the well known TAVERN now occupied by Mr. Adam Alit- chell. The STORE HOUSE now in the occu- pancy of Mr. Daniel Harrington—and from eight hundred to a thousand acres of good FARMING LAND, at present in the pes- session of Mr. Carr W. Lane, and Mr. Wal- ter Locker, which will be disposed of in sepe- rate tracts or entire. It is presumed that any person disposed to buy or rent any of the above property will first view the same and judge for themselves—a further description is therefore unnecessary. Mr. Lane would take a small proportion in Negroes. Harrison Fitzhugh. Fairfax County Oct. 23. 12w

GREAT BARGAINS.
INTENDING to remove to the state of Tennessee as soon as possible, I wish to dispose of the following valuable and increasing property upon low terms, which property I inherited from my ancestors, who have had a legal title to the same for upwards of one hundred years.
One tract well known by the name of ANNEXON, being on the Potomac river between Alexandria and George Town, and nearly opposite the city of Washington, beautifully situated, containing about Four Hundred acres, now leased to the Mr. Wises for three hundred and sixty dollars per annum, with other stipulations contained in the said lease.
One other tract contiguous to the first, leased to William Fraser for forty dollars per annum, containing about sixty acres.
One other tract containing ten acres of bottom land, adjoining the Four Mile Mill tract.
One other tract contiguous to the Abingdon estate, and within two and a half miles of George Town, containing 725 acres. The greatest part of this land is heavily covered with red and white Oak.
Three thousand acres on the Scioto River, in the state of Ohio.
This tract descended to me from my uncle George D. Alexander, being one moiety of the land he was entitled to for his military services during the revolutionary war. All the title papers with the wills under which I am entitled to the above property, are in the hands of BALDWIN DARE, Esq. to whom application will please to be made for terms &c. he being legally authorised to contract and dispose of all the above valuable property, for which good and satisfactory titles will be given.
Walter S. Alexander.
August 13.
THE SUBSCRIBER
Having withdrawn from the partnership of Horner and Pyles, begs leave to inform his friends and the public generally, that he has commenced and is now carrying on the Wheelwright and Blacksmith's business, on his own account, on Royal, a little below Prince street, and flatters himself that he shall be able to render general satisfaction, having sound and seasoned stuff, and excellent workmen: these, with a determination to render every personal attention to the execution of his work, will he hopes secure him a portion of the public patronage.
John Horner, jun.
November 7
BRYAN HAMPSON
HAS FOR SALE.
 10 pipes old port  5 do. Madeira  30 quarter casks Lisbon  12 do. particular Teneriffe  15 do. Malaga  15 pipes old cognac brandy  5 do. 4th proof Holland Gin  3 hlds. 3d proof Antigua rum  12 do. first quality molasses  6 do. green copperas  2 do. alum  20 do. brown sugar  20 bags pimento  15 do. pepper  10 chests young hyson  10 do. hyson skin  5 do. imperial  100 bags green coffee  150 kegs madder  50 do. ground ginger  30 do. raisins  1200 lbs. Bacon well cured  5 kegs salt petre 
A quantity of fine and ground alum salt. At all times he has the first quality flour for family use on hand—with a number of other articles—all of which he will sell low on his former terms.
Aug. 31.
HORWELL'S
Celebrated Patent Suspenders
FOR Ease, Elegance, Strength, &c. far exceeds any in use. To be had wholesale and retail at the MANUFACTORY, lower end of Prince Street, Alexandria.
M. The Subscriber has a complete assortment well adapted for the Winter Season, and can supply wholesale purchasers on advantageous terms.
Richard Horwell.
Sept. 25
DIRECTIONS.
The buttons on the back parts of the waistband ought to be placed the same distance from each other, as the two center buttons on the Suspenders, to prevent improper straining and thereby destroying the ease designed in the construction of the article.
GROCERIES,
By ISAAC ROBBINS and CO. at their Grocery Store, opposite the Indian-Queen tavern, King-street—
Where country store-keepers can be supplied on moderate terms.
October 23
d2weo2w
District of Columbia.
County of Alexandria, ss.
July Term, 1807.
Jonah Thompson and Richard Veitch, complainants,
vs. Jacob Swope, administrator of Adam S. Swope, deceased, George Swope and Edward K. Thompson, and Sarah his wife; which said Jacob, George and Sarah, are the heirs and representatives of the said Adam S. Swope, deceased, defendants.
The defendants Edward K. Thompson and Sarah his wife, and George Swope, not having entered their 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 upon affidavit, that the said defendants Edward K. Thompson and Sarah his wife, and George Swope, are not inhabitants of this district—on motion of the said complainants by their counsel, it is ordered, that the said defendants Edward K. Thompson and Sarah his wife, and George Swope, do appear here on the 4th Monday of November term next and answer the bill of the complainants, and that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in both of the public newspapers published in this county for two months successively, and that another copy be posted at the front door of the courthouse of said county.
A Copy. Teste.
G. Deneale, C. C.
November 10.
law2m
FOR SALE OR RENT, WATER STREET ACADEMY.
A two-story BRICK HOUSE, pleasantly situated, and lately occupied by the Rev. J. Foster—Terms of sale or rent will be very moderate.
L. LEWIS.
September 30.
2aw
PROSPECTUS
OF LEWIS AND CLARK'S TOUR TO THE PACIFIC OCEAN,
THROUGH THE INTERIOR OF THE CONTINENT OF NORTH AMERICA, Performed by order of the Government of the United States.
During the years 1804, 1805, and 1806. This work will be prepared by Capt. Meriwether Lewis, and will be divided into two parts, the whole comprized in three volumes octavo, the first containing at least seven hundred pages, the second and third from four to five hundred each, printed on good paper, and a fair pica type. The several volumes in such edition will be put to press at as early periods as the avocations of the author will permit him to prepare them for publication.
This distribution of the work has been made with a view to the accommodation of every description of readers, and is here offered to the patronage of the public in such shape, that all persons wishing to become subscribers, may accommodate themselves with either of the parts, or the entire work, as it shall be most convenient to themselves.
Subscriptions received by ROBERT GRAY, Alexandria.
Detached from this work, there will be published
LEWIS AND CLARK'S MAP OF NORTH AMERICA.
From longitude 97 west, to the Pacific Ocean, and between 36 and 52 north latitude, with extensive Marginal Notes. Dimensions five feet eight inches by three feet ten inches.
EMBRACING all their late discoveries, and that part of the continent heretofore the least known. This map will be compiled from the best maps now extant, as well published as in manuscript, from the collective information of the best informed travellers through the various portions of that region, and corrected by a series of several hundred celestial observations, made by Captain Lewis during his late tour.
For the convenience of subscribers, these several works will be delivered at the most respectable commercial towns, and at the seats of government of the respective states and territories within the Union; no advance is required, nor will payment be demanded until such delivery is made.
The price of part the first, is two dollars, will be ten dollars, and that of part the second, in one volume, eleven dollars, delivered in boards. Price of the Map, ten dollars.
Any person who may have subscribed for these works, to lists which contained no stipulated prices for the same, and who may be dissatisfied with the terms now proposed, are at liberty to withdraw their names from such lists, at any time prior to the 1st day of December next.
PHILADELPHIA, June 3.
[Aug. 7.]
TO LET,
THE House and Lot, at present occupied by Mr. DANIEL M'LEOD Painter, next door to Paton and Butchers hard ware store on King-street. Equal to any stand in Alexandria, for a Grocery or Dry Goods, with convenient accommodations for a Family.
Inquire of
Joseph Smith.
Nov. 5.
co3tlaw
Joseph Mandeville,
Corner of KING and FAIRFAX-STREETS,
ALEXANDRIA:
HAS FOR SALE,
An assortment of WINES, LIQUORS, GROCERIES, &c.
Consisting of
MADEIRA
Port
Sherry
Lisbon
Malaga
Teneriffe &
Corsica
WINES.
Old St. Estephe Medoc Iaret, in cases of one dozen
A few dozen fine old frontinac
Ditto do. best wine bitters
Jamaica and West-India rum
New-England do.
Cogniac, Bourdeaux and Naples brandy
Holland and country gin
Schiedam gin in cases
Irish whiskey, very old
70 barrels Pennsylvania rye whiskey
Cider in barrels
White wine and Cider vinegar
Florence oil in flasks
2 hogheads Havanna honey
15 do. choice retailing molasses
Gunpowder
Imperial
Hyson
Young Hyson
Hyson-Skin and
Souchong
TEAS
of good quality.
Muscovado sugars, different qualities
Bengal white do.
Loaf and lump sugars, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Alexandria.
Leiper's, Garrett's, and Hamilton's snuff in bottles and bladders.
Macuba and rapee do.
Clover-seed, (Penn. warranted)
Mace; nutmegs; cloves; cassia; pimento; pepper; ginger, race and ground; Cayenne pepper; refined salt-petre.
Coffee; chocolate; rice; pearl barley; London and Philadelphia mustard; basket salt; starch; fig blue; flax; indigo; Georgia and Tennessee cotton; flax; wool; madder; copperas; alum; brimstone; chalk; pipes in boxes; wrapping paper and twine; traces; bed cords; leading lines; demijohns; gin cases; patent shot; brandywine gunpowder; Harvey's gunpowder, [the only real British battle powder] from F to treble sealed; chewing tobacco; best Havanna segars.
Muscavet and bloom raisins in boxes.
Sun raisins in casks.
Zante currants; prunes; soft shelled almonds.
A few boxes excellent pickles, each one dozen bottles assorted; capers, olives and hchoies, for sale by the box.
A quantity of clean good alum salt suitable for the fishery, &c. &c.
Joseph H. Mandeville,
KING-STREET, NEAR THE RIVER,
Has for Sale,
Muscovado SUGAR in blds. and
bls. various qualities
Loaf and Lump do. in bds.
200 barrels inspected HERRINGS
COFFEE in bags
MOLASSES in bds.
Imperial
Old Hyson
Young Hyson
Hyson Skin and
Souchong
TEAS
Port
Madeira
Claret
Sherry
Lisbon and
Malaga
WINES
Cogniac and Spanish Brandy
Jamaica
Antigua
Windward Island and
New-England
Rye Whiskey in barrels
Cherry Bounce in do.
Salt, coarse and fine
Pepper, Pimento, Snuff, Chewing Tobacco, Segars, Mould and Dipped Candles, Soap, Copperas, Madder, Wampum, Paper, Rice, Chocolate, Philadelphia Porter, Havanna Honey.
ALSO,
A constant supply of nice Flour for family use.
October 27.
d
ALMANACS for 1808,
Just published and for sale, by
COTTON and STEWART,
September 16.
co3tlaw
PUBLIC SALE.
On Wednesday next at eleven o'clock, will be sold on HARPER'S Wharf, Prince-street, ON A CREDIT of SIXTY, NINETY and ONE HUNDRED and TWENTY DAYS, 40 hhds. first quality SUGAR. P. G. Marsteller. November 16.
NOTICE is hereby given, That a petition will be presented to the general assembly at their next session, by the stockholders of the Little River Turnpike Company, praying to be authorised to receive toll for every five miles of the turnpike road when completed and received according to the act for incorporating said company. November 12.
Mahogany for Sale.
Ten thousand feet of first quality St. Domingo Mahogany in Logs or sawed into Plank of any description, some of the Planks are two feet three inches wide. Orders from a distance will be attended to by
JOSEPH SMITH.
Nov. 5.
co3tlaw
For Sale by the Subscribers,
Lisbon Carpeting for summer, of different qualities,
Bucellos and Carcavello Wines in quarter casks,
Window Glass of different sizes, Mould Candles of a superior quality in small boxes,
Soft-shelled Almonds in bags, A quantity of patent Iron Hollow ware. R. T. Hooe & Co.
June 1.
To Parents, Guardians, & Teachers, JUST PUBLISHED, BY COTTON AND STEWART,
ALEXANDRIA,
MAVORS
UNIVERSAL SPELLING-BOOK, Accompanied by a progressive series of Easy and Familiar Lessons.
Intended as an Introduction to the first Elements of the English Language.
THE AUTHOR'S PREFACE.
NOTWITHSTANDING the vast number of introductory books for children in the Nursery, which have been written within these few years by persons of distinguished abilities and sanctioned with their names, it must still be allowed, that there has not appeared one introduction to Reading, for the general use of schools, that rises above the level of the vulgar, though popular compilations of Dyche, Dillworth and Fleming. The superstructure has been attended to with equal care; and writers of the first eminence have contributed to rear the fabric of learning, while the foundation has almost invariably been suffered to be laid, by the most trifling and ignorant workmen. The consequence has frequently been, as might be expected from such a proceeding, the task has been visited at the very commencement; and it has often proved more difficult to remove error, than it would have cost pains to plant originally the principles of truth.
For the neglect we have alluded to, it would be impossible to produce any consistent reason. Perhaps the pride of acknowledged literature could not stop to an occupation reputed to mean, as that of compiling a Spelling Book. Yet to lay the first stone of a noble edifice, has ever been a task delegated to the most honorable hands; and to sow the first seeds of useful learning in the nascent mind, is an employment that cannot be done, graceful to the most illustrious talents. Bishop Lowth wrote an excellent English grammar, and several men of rank in literature have benefited the public by similar productions; yet it is in vain that grammars are written, if no one has learned to read; it is in vain that the smoothest discoveries are made in any art or science, if the generality of the world are precluded from profiting by them, for want of previous instruction in the first principles with which they are connected.
The Editor of the following sheets is fully convinced of the solidity of his inferences and the justice of his remarks, in whatever light his present undertaking may be regarded. Humble or degrading as it may appear to those who, perhaps, have no higher pretensions than himself, he cannot think that labor dishonorable, which is so manifestly beneficial to the rising generation; nor has he any reason to fear, but that the candid and judicious will appreciate his motives and his productions as they deserve. Our sentiments and our conduct are more influenced by early impressions than many seem willing to allow. The stream will always flow tintured with the nature of its source. A just maxim, a humane principle, a germ of knowledge early imbibed, will be permanent to the last. The first books we read can never be forgotten; nor the principles they inculcate, eradicated. Hence, in the prosecution of this work, care has been taken to make every lesson or essay, as far as the nature and intention of the plan would allow, tend to some useful purpose of information or instruction. Even in the more easy progressive lessons, where sense was limited to a single syllable, it is hoped something will be found to please and to improve. Nor will this be thought difficult. To read in the sense of a Berwick, a Jewett, a Bagsworth, a Trimmer, a Berquin, and to accommodate their labors to the benevolent design in hand, only required a little taste and judgment, which any person long conversant with education and books ought to possess.
In short, the Editor feels inclined to believe, that a manual for early youth will be found much better adapted for the purpose than any that was preceded it; and a consequence he anticipates the kind patronage of Teachers in general. It probably will tend to facilitate their labour, by furnishing subjects more agreeable to the pupil, than the dry history of men and books of the kind; and it cannot fail to redound to their credit, also, by giving youth an opportunity of going on a much general knowledge as could be secured from the limits of ordinary instruction. Indeed it was a remark of the publisher, to whom British youth are under singular obligations for furnishing them with many valuable opportunities of improvement which he has earnestly pressed this work on the public's attention. That a Spelling Book frequently contains the whole library of a poor child, unless when charity puts a little into his hands, & it is consequently ought to contain as great a variety of useful matter as the law will permit. The compilation has been formed upon this principle.
PRINTED DAILY BY SAMUEL SNOWDEN, (for the Proprietor)