Virginia Argus (Richmond, Va.), 1808-04-26 00:00:00

VIRGINIA ARGUS.
XVIII YEAR.]
A FREE PRESS MAINTAINS THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE PEOPLE.
[No. 1453.]
RICHMOND:—PRINTED (ON TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS) BY SAMUEL PLEASANTS, JUNIOR, PRINTER TO THE COMMONWEALTH.
[Four Dollars Per Annum—Paid in Advance.]
TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 1808.
[12 1-2 Cents Single.]
Richmond Price Current.
(CORRECTED WEEKLY.)
 Tobacco, 8 3 50 CASH  WHEAT, new, 0 66 do.  FLOUR, superfine, new, 4 do.  CORN, 3 50 do.  Hemp, clean, (per ton) 150 00 do.  Iron, 120 00 do.  Eacon, 10 do.  Whiskey, 37 do. 
By Authority.
AN ACT,
Extending the time for issuing and locating military land warrants.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the Secretary of war be authorised to issue military land warrants to such persons as have, or shall, before the first day of March, one thousand eight hundred and ten, produce to him satisfactory evidence of the validity of their claims; which warrants, with those heretofore issued and not yet satisfied, shall and may be located in the names of the holders or proprietors thereof, prior to the first day of October, one thousand eight hundred and ten, on any unlocated parts of the fifty quarter townships and the fractional quarter townships reserved by law for original holders of military land warrants.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. March 21, 1808. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT,
Granting William Wells the right of pre-emption.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That William Wells shall have the right of pre-emption to three hundred and twenty acres of land, to include his improvements situated at Fort Wayne, in the Indiana Territory, at the confluence of the rivers Saint Joseph's and Saint Mary's, which form the Miami of the lake; the boundaries of which shall be designated under the direction of the Secretary of the Treasury; which tract of land shall be granted to him, at the same price, and on the same terms for which other public lands are sold at private sale, and the respective instalments of the purchase money shall become due at the same time with those of the first public lands which may be sold in the tract of six miles square ceded by the treaty of Greenville to the United States, at the confluence of said rivers.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. March 18, 1808. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT,
For erecting a light-house on the south point of the island of Sable, and for placing buoys and beacons in the shoals of the inlet leading to the town of Darien, and near the entrance of Ipswich harbor, near Plymouth harbor, before the harbor of Nantucket, and on the island of Tuckanuck, at or near the entrance of Connecticut river, and near the entrance of Great Egg Harbor river.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That as soon as the jurisdiction of so much of the head land of the south point of the island of Sable, in the state of Georgia, as the President of the United States shall deem sufficient for the purpose of erecting a light-house and its appurtenances, shall have been ceded to the United States, provided the said land can be obtained at a reasonable price, it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Treasury to provide by contract, which shall be approved by the President of the United States, for building a light-house thereon, and furnishing the same with all necessary supplies, and also to agree for the salaries or wages of the person or persons who may be appointed by the President for the superintendence and care of building the said light-house: And the President is hereby authorised to make the said appointment.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the Secretary of the Treasury be further authorised and directed to cause to be placed four buoys on the shoals called the South and North banks of the harbor or entrance of the inlet leading to the town of Darien.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the Secretary of the Treasury be and he is hereby authorised to cause to be erected and placed beacons and buoys at the following places, to wit: two beacons and three buoys near the entrance of Ipswich harbor; three buoys, one on Garnet rock, one on Boss rock, and one on Deck's flats, and two beacons on the stony muscle bed, near Plymouth harbor; three additional buoys before the harbor of Nantucket, and a buoy or leading mark on the island of Tuckanuck, in the state of Massachusetts—three buoys at or near the entrance of the Connecticut river, and three buoys to be placed at or near the entrance of Great Egg Harbor river, in the state of New Jersey.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That there shall be appropriated and paid out of any monies in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, a sum not exceeding eleven thousand five hundred dollars, for the purposes aforesaid.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States and President of the Senate. March 17, 1808. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT, To amend the act, entitled "An act establishing circuit courts and abridging the jurisdiction of the district courts of the districts of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Ohio."
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That so much of the second section of the act, entitled "An act establishing circuit courts, and abridging the jurisdiction of district courts of the districts of Kentucky, Tennessee and Ohio," passed the twenty fourth day of February eighteen hundred and seven, constituting the State of Tennessee one district, for the purpose of holding circuit courts therein, shall be, and is hereby repealed, and from and after the passing of this act, the state of Tennessee shall be divided into two districts, for the purpose of holding circuit courts therein, and the limits of the said districts shall be the same as those now prescribed for the districts of east and west Tennessee, in and by the fourth section of the above recited act, and there shall be holden annually in each of the said two districts, one circuit court, to consist of one justice of the supreme court of the United States and the district judge of the said districts of east and west Tennessee, and the sessions of the said courts shall be held in each of the said districts, at Nashville on the second Monday in June, and at Knoxville on the third Monday in October annually; and that all actions, causes, pleas, process, and other proceedings relative to any cause civil or criminal, which shall be returnable to, or depending in the said circuit court of the United States, to be held at Nashville on the first Monday of June next, shall be returned, and held continued to, and be proceeded upon, on the second Monday in June next, in the same manner they would have been if this change had not taken place.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That where any suit or suits has or have been brought, or is or are now pending before the circuit court held at Knoxville, in and for the district of east Tennessee, against a person residing in said district of east Tennessee, such suit or suits shall be proceeded upon, and finally determined in the district of east Tennessee, and where any suit or suits has or have been brought, or is or are now pending before the circuit court held at Nashville, in and for the district of west Tennessee, against a person residing in the said district of west Tennessee, such suit or suits shall be proceeded upon and finally determined in the district of west Tennessee.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That it shall be the duty of the district judge of Tennessee to attend at Knoxville on the first Thursday after the third Monday in April next, and on the first Thursday after the third Monday in April of each and every year thereafter, and at Nashville on the first Thursday after the fourth Monday in November next, and on the first Thursday after the fourth Monday in November of each and every year thereafter, who shall have power to make all necessary orders touching any suit, action, appeal, writ of error, process, pleadings, or proceedings returned to the circuit court next to be holden thereafter at Knoxville, and Nashville, or depending therein, preparatory to the hearing, trial or decision of such action, suit, appeal, writ of error, process, pleadings or proceedings; and all writs and process may be returnable to the said courts on the first Thursday after the third Monday in April, at Knoxville, and on the first Thursday after the fourth Monday in November, at Nashville, in the same manner as the sessions of the circuit court, directed to be held by this act in the district of east Tennessee, at Knoxville, and in the district of west Tennessee, at Nashville; and the said writs, returnable to the circuit courts to be held at Knoxville may also bear test on the said first Thursday after the third Monday in April; and the writs returnable to the circuit courts to be held at Nashville may bear test on the first Thursday after the fourth Monday in November, as though a session of the said circuit court was holden on those days at Knoxville and Nashville, respectively.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That there shall be two clerks appointed, one for the circuit court to be held at Knoxville, and one for the circuit court to be held at Nashville, whose duty it shall be to attend the said district judge on the said first Thursday after the third Monday in April, and on the said first Thursday after the fourth Monday in November, of each and every year, at the places aforesaid, who shall make due entry of all such matters and things as shall or may be ordered by the said judge, and at each and every of the said sessions so held, and at each and every of the said proceedings relative to any cause civil or criminal, shall, for the circuit court to be held at Nashville, be continued over to the ensuing second Monday in June, and shall for the circuit court to be held at Knoxville, be continued over to the ensuing third Monday in October.
Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That all actions, suits, process, pleadings, and other proceedings of what nature or kind soever, civil or criminal, which were originally returned to the circuit court begun and held at Nashville, on the first Monday in June last; and all writs, process and proceedings, as aforesaid, which are or may be made returnable to the said circuit court to be held at Nashville, shall after the next June term of the circuit court be continued, returned to and have day in the session to be held by this act, on the first Thursday after the fourth Monday in November next, and all actions, suits, process, pleadings, and other proceedings of what nature or kind soever, civil or criminal, which were originally returned to the circuit court begun and held at Knoxville, on the third Monday in October last; and all writs, process, and pleadings as aforesaid which are or may be made returnable to the said circuit court, shall be continued, returned to, and have day in the session to be held by this act, on the first Thursday after the third Monday in April next; and such proceedings shall be had thereon, at the said session as are herein before provided.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate. March 22, 1808. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT, Making additional compensation to the Marshals of the Districts of North Carolina and New Jersey.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That from and after the last day of March next, there shall be paid annually to the Marshal for the district of North Carolina, the sum of four hundred dollars; to the Marshal for the district of New Jersey, the sum of two hundred dollars, in addition to the fees and emoluments heretofore allowed them by law.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States and President of the Senate. February 23, 1808. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT, Making appropriations for the support of the Military establishment of the United States, for the year one thousand eight hundred and eight.
BE it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That for defraying the expense of the military establishment of the United States, for the year one thousand eight hundred and eight, for the Indian department, and for the expense of fortifications, arsenals, magazines and armories, the following sums be, and the same hereby are respectively appropriated, that is to say:
 For the pay of the army of the United States, three hundred and two thousand nine hundred and fifty two dollars;  For forage, four thousand six hundred and eight dollars;  For the subsistence of the army and corps of engineers, two hundred and forty-two thousand five hundred and forty-eight dollars and thirty-five cents;  For clothing, eighty-five thousand dollars;  For bounties and premiums, fifteen thousand dollars;  For the medical and hospital departments, fifteen thousand dollars;  For camp equipage, fuel, tools and transportation, ninety thousand dollars;  For fortifications, arsenals, magazines and armories, two hundred and eighteen thousand six hundred and forty two dollars and five cents;  For purchasing maps, plans, books and instruments, fifteen hundred dollars;  For contingencies, eight thousand dollars;  For ordnance, forty-five thousand dollars;  For tents, twenty thousand dollars;  For extra transportation of military stores, twenty-five thousand dollars;  For the Indian department, one hundred and forty thousand and six hundred 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. J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate. March 3, 1808. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
BLANK BONDS for sale at this office.
Congress.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
THURSDAY, April 14.
The speaker laid before the house the following letter from the secretary of the treasury.
Treasury department, April 9, 1808. Sir, I have the honor to transmit a statement of the public debt on the first day of January 1791—1807 respectively, together with sundry explanatory statements and notes prepared in pursuance of the resolution of the house of representatives of the 8th of January 1807.
The amount of the public debt of the U. S. unprovided for, on the days above mentioned respectively, and also the estimated amount of the said debt of the first day of January, 1808, together with the progress and decrease of the same during certain periods will appear from the following table.
   Amount of Debt Decrease. Increase.    1791, Jan. 1st, 75,169,974 21 3,418,023 72  1792, 76,378,767 16  1793, 77,587,997 93  1794, 75,996,170 56 1,591,827 37 5,646,102 40  1795, 73,149,937 83  1796, 81,642,272 96  1797, 80,934,063 75 4,242,203 61  1798, 73,494,163 54  1799, 77,399,909 35  1800, 81,633,325 74 4,600,238 01  1801, 82,000,467 36  1802, 78,754,568 70  1803, 74,751,922 85 10,621,720 57  1804, 85,333,643 22  1805, 80,534,038 65  1806, 74,542,957 62  1807, 67,731,645 62  1808, 64,700,000 00  $ 20,653,648 22  
During the first ten years of that period, the debt had increased near seven millions of dollars. It has been diminished more than seventeen millions during the last seven years.
I have the honor to be, Very respectfully to you, Your obedient servant, ALBERT GALLATIN.
The Hon. the Speaker of the House of Representatives. On motion of Mr. Dana, the resolutions some time ago submitted by him for the encouragement and protection of American seamen, and to authorise the arming and association of merchant vessels for their mutual defence, were referred to a select committee, with leave to report by bill.
Mr. Van Cortlandt presented a joint resolution from the legislature of New-York, instructing their senators and requesting their representatives to urge in the strongest manner the exposed situation of the city of New-York, and the destitute condition of the seamen. Referred to a committee of the whole on the state of the union.
The house again went into committee of the whole on the resolution lately offered by Mr. Campbell, (to authorise the President to take off the EMBARGO).
Mr. Randolph, and D. R. Williams opposed the resolution; and Mr. G. W. Campbell, in a speech of about three hours supported it; when the committee rose, reported progress, and obtained leave to sit again.
Mr. Randolph offered a modification to the resolution, but afterwards withdrew it—and then the house adjourned.
The senate have passed the bill concerning courts martial and courts of inquiry, after an animated debate, with sundry amendments.
Some severe remarks passed to-day between Messrs. G. W. Campbell and Randolph.
FRIDAY, April 15.
As soon as the journal was read, Mr. Bacon said he rose with feelings of the deepest sensibility to perform a solemn and painful duty, by announcing the DEATH of his friend and colleague Mr. JACOB CROWNINSHIELD, who expired this morning at 5 o'clock.
The following resolution was adopted unanimously:
On motion of Mr. Fisk, Resolved, that a committee of 7 members be appointed to take order for superintending the funeral of Jacob Crowninshield, esq. late a representative in congress from the state of Massachusetts.
On motion of Mr. D. R. Williams, Resolved, That the members of this house will testify their respect for the memory of Jacob Crowninshield, esq. late one of their body, by wearing Crape on the left arm for one month.
On motion of Mr. Newton, Resolved, That the members of this house will attend the funeral of the late Jacob Crowninshield, esq. to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.
On motion of Mr. Smilie, Resolved, That a message be sent to the senate to notify them of the death of Jacob Crowninshield, esq. late a member of this house; and that his funeral will take place to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock.
Mr. Findlay moved that when the house adjourn, they adjourn to meet at 9 o'clock to-morrow morning, in order to prepare for attending the funeral. Carried.
And then, on motion of Mr. Newton the house adjourned.
MONDAY, April 18. The House then took up the unfinished business of Saturday, on the bill for arming the whole body of the militia; and the committee obtained leave to sit again—49 to 34.
The House then resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Ayes 36—Mr. Desha in the chair, on the bill.
Several questions on different sums having been taken, the sum of 200,000 dollars was agreed to, 46 to 36.
On motion of Mr. Rice, a new section was added to the bill directing these arms to be distributed to the governments of the different states and territories, according to the number of their militia respectively.
The committee then rose and reported the bill as amended, Ayes 64.
The House concurred in the sum reported by the committee, 51 to 27.
The question was then taken on the passage of the bill to a third reading, Yeas 54, Nays 33.
Mr. G. W. Campbell from the committee of Ways and Means, reported a bill for the support of an additional military force for the year 1808. Twice read and committed.
TUESDAY, April 19.
A report of the committee appointed to enquire into the conduct of Harry Innes, declaring it inexpedient for the house to act on the subject, was ordered to lie on the table.
The bill for arming the whole body of the Militia of the U. S. was read the third time, and passed—Yeas 58, Nays 22.
A short time after eleven the House went into committee of the whole on the bill, from the Senate, authorising the President of the United States under certain contingencies to suspend the act laying an embargo.
After a wide discussion and the proposition of various amendments, all of which were negatived, the committee rose and reported the bill without amendment; when after further discussion, and the rejection of numerous amendments offered, the final question was taken at half past ten o'clock on the passage of the bill—Yeas 60 Nays 38. The substance of the bill is stated in our last, and only requires the signature of the President to be a law.
IN SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
APRIL 13, 1808.
Mr. HILLHOUSE submitted the following amendments to the constitution of the United States, for consideration.
Resolved, by the senate and house of representatives of the U. States of America, in congress assembled, two-thirds of both houses concurring, That the following articles be proposed to the legislatures of the several states, as amendments to the constitution of the United States; all or any of which articles, when ratified by three fourths of the said legislatures, to be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of the said constitution—viz.
ARTICLES
In addition to, and amendment of the constitution of the U. States of America proposed by congress, and ratified by the legislatures of the several states, pursuant to the fifth article of the original constitution.
ARTICLE THE FIRST.
After the third day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the house of representatives shall be composed of members chosen every year by the people of the several states; their electors in each state shall have the qualification requisite for electors of the most numerous branch of the state legislature: and their term of service shall expire on the first Tuesday of April in each year.
ARTICLE THE SECOND.
After the third day of March one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the senators of the United States shall be chosen for three years; and their term of service shall expire on the first Tuesday of April.
Immediately after they shall be assembled in consequence of the first election, they shall be divided as equal as may be, into three classes. The seats of the first class shall be vacated at the expiration of the first year, of the second class at the expiration of the second year, and of the third class at the expiration of the third year, so that one-third may be chosen every year. Vacancies may be filled as already provided.
ARTICLE THE THIRD.
On the third day of March one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the president of the United States shall be appointed, and shall hold in his office until the expiration of the first Tuesday of April, one thousand eight hundred and fourteen, and on the first Tuesday of April, one thousand eight hundred and fourteen, and on the first Tuesday of April, in each succeeding year, the president shall be appointed to hold his office during the term of one year. The mode of appointment shall be as follows:
In presence of the senate and house of representatives, each senator belonging to the class whose term of service will first expire, and constitutionally eligible to the office of president, of which the house of representatives shall be the sole judges,

and shall decide without debate, shall, beginning with the first on the alphabet, & in their alphabetical order, draw a ball out of a box, containing the same number of uniform balls as there shall be senators present & eligible, one of which balls shall be colored, the others white. The senator who shall draw the colored ball shall be president. A committee of the house of representatives, to consist of a member from each state, to be appointed in such manner as the house shall direct, shall place the balls in the box, shall shake the same so as to intermix them, and shall superintend the drawing thereof.
In case of the removal of the president from office, or of his death, resignation, or inability to discharge the powers or duties thereof, if congress be then in session, or if not, as soon as they shall be in session, the president shall, in the manner before mentioned, be appointed for the residue of the term. And until the disability be removed, or a president be appointed, the speaker of the senate shall act as president. And congress may by law provide for the case of removal by death, resignation, or inability of the president, and vacancy in the office, or inability of the speaker of the senate; and such officer shall act accordingly, until the disability of the president be removed, or another be appointed.
The seat of a senator who shall be appointed president, shall thereby be vacated.
ARTICLE THE FOURTH.
After the third day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the compensation of the president shall not exceed fifteen thousand dollars a year.
ARTICLE THE FIFTH.
After the third day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen the office of vice president shall cease. And the senate, on the same day in each year, when the president shall be annually appointed, shall choose a speaker; and in the absence of the speaker, or when he shall exercise the office of president, the senate shall choose a speaker pro tempore.
ARTICLE THE SIXTH.
After the third day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the president shall nominate, and by and with the advice and consent of the senate and of the house of representatives, shall appoint ambassadors, other public ministers and consuls, judges of the supreme court, and all other officers of the United States whose appointments are not herein otherwise provided for, and which shall be established by law. But congress may, by law, vest the appointment of such officers as they think proper, in the president, by and with the advice and consent of the senate; and of inferior officers, in the president alone, in the courts of law, or in the heads of departments. But no law vesting the power of appointment shall be for a longer term than two years. All proceedings on nominations shall be with closed doors, and without debate; but information of the character and qualifications of the person nominated shall be received.
ARTICLE THE SEVENTH.
After the third day of March, one thousand eight hundred and thirteen, the president shall have power to fill all vacancies that may happen during the recess of congress, by granting commissions which shall expire at the end of their next session. No removal from office shall take place, without the consent of the senate and house of representatives. But congress may, by law, authorise the removal by the same power, as may by law be authorised to make the appointment. But in every case of misconduct, in office, by the consent of the senate, or of the senate and house of representatives, shall be necessary to a removal, the president, during the recess of congress may suspend the officer, and make a temporary appointment of a person to exercise the office, until the next meeting of congress, and until a decision can be had by the senate, or by the senate and house of representatives, as the case may be, on a question for the removal of the officer suspended. All proceedings respecting removal from office shall be, had, without debate, upon the information and reasons which shall be communicated by the president, and with closed doors.
APRIL 16.
Mr. Anderson, from the committee to whom was referred, on the 4th inst. the correspondence between Mr. Monroe and Mr. Canning, and between Mr. Madison and Mr. Rose, relative to the attack made upon the frigate Chesapeake, by the British ship of war Leopard, and also the communications made to the Senate, by the President of the United States, on the 20th day of March last, containing a letter from Mr. Erskine to the secretary of state, and a letter from Mr. Champagny to general Armstrong.
REPORTED: That on a view of the several orders, decrees and decisions of Great Britain and France, within the period of the existing war, it appears, that previous to the measures referred to in the letters from Mr. Erskine to the secretary of state, and from Mr. Champagny to general Armstrong, various and heavy injuries, have been committed against the neutral commerce and navigation of the U. S. under the following heads:
 1st. The British order of June, 1803, unlawfully respecting the trade of the United States, with a certain portion of the unblockaded ports of her enemies, and condemning vessels with innocent cargoes, on a return from ports where they had deposited contraband articles.  2d. The capture and condemnation, in British courts of Admiralty, of American property, on a pretended principle, debarring neutral nations from a trade with the enemies of Great Britain, interdicted in time of peace. The injuries suffered by the citizens of the United States, on this head, arose, not from any public order of the British council, but from a variation in the principle, upon which the courts of admiralty pronounced their decision. These decisions have indeed again varied, without any new orders of council being issued; and in the higher courts of admiralty, some of the decisions which had formed the greatest cause for complaint, have been reversed, and the property restored. There still remains, however, a heavy claim of indemnity for confiscations, which were made during the period of these unwarrantable decisions, and for which all negotiation has hitherto proved unavailing. 
3d. Blockades notified to the ministers of the United States at London, and thence made a ground of capture, against the trade of the United States, in entire disregard of the law of nations, and even of the definition of legal blockades, laid down by the British government itself. Examples of these illegitimate blockades, will be found in the notifications of the blockade of May 16th, 1806, of the coast from the river Elbe to Brest inclusive; blockade of 11th May, 1807, of the coast from the river Elbe to Weser, and Elbe, and the coast between the same; blockade 11th May, 1807, of the Dardanelles and Smyrna; blockade of 8th January, 1808, of Carthagena, Cadiz, and St. Lucar, and of all the intermediate ports between Carthagena and St. Lucar, comprehending a much greater extent of coast, than the whole British navy could blockade, according to the established law of nations.
4th. To these injuries immediately authorised by the British government, might be added other spurious blockades by British naval commanders, particularly that of the island of Carroca, which for a very considerable period, was made a pretext for very extensive spoliations on the commerce of the United States.
5th. The British proclamation of October 1st, which makes it the duty of the British officers to impress from American merchant vessels, all such of their crews as might be taken or mistaking for British subjects; those officers being the sole and absolute judges in the case.
For the decrees and acts of the French government, violating the maritime law of nations, in respect to the United States, the committee refer to the instances contained in the report of the secretary of state, Jan. 25th, 1806, to the senate, in one of which, viz a decree of the French gen. Ferrand, at St. Domingo, are regulations sensibly affecting the neutral and commercial rights of the U. S.
The French act next in order of time is the decree of Nov. 21, 1806; declaring the British isles in a state of blockade, and professing to be a retaliation on antecedent proceedings of Great Britain violating the law of nations.
This decree was followed, first by the British order of January, 1807, professing to be a retaliation on that decree, and subjecting to capture the trade of the United States, from the port of one belligerent to the port of another; and secondly, by the orders of November last, professing to be a further retaliation on the same decree, and prohibiting the commerce of neutrals with the enemies of Great Britain, as explained in the aforesaid letter of Mr. Erskine.
These last British orders again, have been followed by the French decree of December 17th, purporting to be a retaliation on the said orders, and to be put in force against the commerce of the United States, as stated in the aforesaid letter of Mr. Champagny.
The committee forbear to enter into a comparative view of those proceedings, of the different belligerent powers, deeming it sufficient to present the materials from which they may be formed. They think it their duty nevertheless, to offer the following remarks, suggested by a collective view of the whole.
The injuries and dangers resulting to the commerce of the U. S. from the cause and increase of these belligerent measures, and from similar ones adopted by other nations, were such as first to induce the more circumspect of our merchants and ship owners, no longer to commit their property to the high seas, and at length to impose on Congress the indispensable duty of imposing some legislative provision, for such an unexampled state of things.
Among other expedients out of which a choice was to be made, may be reckoned:  1st. A protection of commerce by armed ships of war.  2d. A protection of it by self armed vessels.  3d. A war of offence as well as of defence.  4th. A general suspension of foreign commerce.  5th. An embargo on all our vessels, mariners and merchandise. 
This last was adopted, and the policy of it was enforced, at the particular moment, by accounts quickly after confirmed, of the British orders of Nov. and by the probability that these would be followed, as has also happened, by invigorated spirit of retaliation, in other belligerent powers. The happy effect of the precaution is demonstrated by the well known fact, that the ports of Europe are crowded with captured vessels of the United States, unfortunately not within the reach of the precaution.
With respect to a protection of our commerce by ships of war, it must be obvious, by impracticable, in any material degree, without a lapse of time, and an expense which amounts to a prohibition of that resort, besides that it would necessarily involve hostile collisions with one or more of the belligerent powers.
Self armed merchantmen would have the same tendency, at the time, that they would be utterly inadequate to a security against the multiplied fleets and cruisers to be encountered.
An entire suspension of foreign commerce, as the resort in the first instance, would evidently have produced some inconveniences not incident to the embargo, as it was modified. But the committee do not suppress in their opinion, that after a reasonable time, it may not improperly take the place of the embargo; in case of a protracted
adherence of the belligerent powers, to their destructive proceedings against our neutral commerce.
With respect to a resort to war, as a remedy for the evils experienced, the committee will offer no other reflection, than that it is in itself so great an evil, that the United States have wisely considered peace and honest neutrality, as the best foundation of their general policy. It is not for the committee to say under what degree of aggravated injuries, and sufferings, a departure from this policy may become a duty; and the most pacific nation finds itself compelled to exchange for the calamities of war, the great distresses of longer forbearance.
In the present state of things, the committee cannot recommend any departure from that policy which withholds our commercial and agricultural property, from the licensed depredations of the great maritime belligerent powers. They hope that an adherence to this policy will eventually secure to us the blessings of peace without any sacrifice of our national rights; and they have no doubt that it will be supported by all the many virtues, which the good people of the U. S. have ever discovered, on great and patriotic occasions. But the committee would suggest, on this subject, that better councils in the belligerent governments, producing a juster conduct towards neutral nations, would render a continuance of the embargo unnecessary; and that it will be a provident measure to vest in the executive a power, in such an event, to suspend until the next session of Congress, wholly, or in part, the several acts prohibiting the departure of our vessels for foreign ports.
Although the committee have abstained from entering into any particular comparison, of the proceedings of the French and British governments, towards the U. S.; they cannot reconcile with their duty, or with the just sensibility of the nation, not to advert to the tenor and language of the late communications, made by the respective organs of those governments.
In the letter of Mr. Champagny, the U. S. are not only threatened with confiscation, as the final destiny of American property, seized under French decrees, unless disposition shall be manifested by them against Great Britain, satisfactory to France, but they are even declared, without reserve of any sort, to be actually in a state of war with Great Britain.
In the letter of Mr. Erskine, to the secretary of state, the U. S. are explicitly charged with justly subjecting their commerce to confiscations under the British orders, by not opposing an effectual resistance against the decrees of France; in other words, by not making war against the nation, in case no other interposition should be effectual.
There are in this exposition of the British orders, certain features, which claim particular attention; among the regulations of which they consist, it is provided, that the commerce of the United States bound from their own ports to its legal and ordinary markets, shall pass through British ports, shall there in all cases, take their clearances from British officers, shall, in some cases, obtain special licenses, and in others, pay a direct and avowed tax; thus, putting the U. S. on a commercial footing, even worse than was allowed to British colonies—which were left free to carry their exports directly to foreign markets, in cases where an intermediate voyage to the parent country, would be too oppressive. In the present case, not a single article is permitted to be sent from the U. S. to the most southern parts of Europe, without a previous voyage to Great Britain, and in some instances, not without purchasing even that privilege, without paying a tribute to the British Treaty.
The committee have taken into consideration the documents relating to the attack on the Frigate Chesapeake; but they have not deemed it their duty, in the actual posture of that subject, to make any other remark, than that it strengthens the motives for persevering in all the provisional and precautionary measures hitherto contemplated.
The committee finally beg leave to submit the following resolutions:
RESOLVED, That the committee do bring in a bill, authorising the President of the U. S. in the event of such peace or suspension of hostilities between the belligerent powers of Europe, or of such changes in their measures affecting neutral commerce, as may render that of the U. S. sufficiently safe in his judgment, to suspend the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the U. S. and the several acts supplementary thereto, under such exceptions and restrictions, as the public interest and circumstances of the case may require: Provided, Such suspension shall not extend beyond days after the commencement of the next session of Congress.
Resolved, That the committee do bring in a bill, authorising the President of the U. S. to suspend the operation of the several acts prohibiting the importation of certain goods, wares and merchandise, if in his judgment the public good should require it: Provided, That such suspension shall not extend beyond days after the commencement of the next session of Congress.
Resolved, That the committee be instructed to report a bill prohibiting after the day of all commercial intercourse with such of the belligerent nations, whose edicts against the neutral commerce of the U. S. may render such prohibition expedient.*
Resolved, That the committee be further instructed to report a bill, expatriating all citizens of the U. S. commanding ships or vessels of the U. S. who shall be convicted of voluntarily accepting any license, or paying any tax, in conformity to the British orders of council, of the 11th of November last.
Resolved, That the committee be further instructed to report a bill, imposing on the
*These two resolutions are worthy of American patriotism, and American spirit.
navigation and commerce of foreign nations, restrictions corresponding with the restrictions, imposed by them respectively on the commerce and navigation of the U. S.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
TUESDAY, April 19.
Messrs. Carlton & Taylor obtained leave of absence for the remainder of the session. Mr. Taggart presented a memorial from sundry inhabitants of Massachusetts, complaining of the embargo. Referred to a committee of the whole on the state of the Union.
Mr. Clarke from the committee appointed on the subject, reported a bill to authorise the governor of New Orleans to fill up vacancies which may occur in the legislature of that territory. Referred to a committee of the whole on Thursday.
Mr. Rowan, from the committee appointed to inquire into the official conduct of Harry Innes, district judge of the United States for the district of Kentucky, made a report thereon, which concludes with a declaration that from the evidence collected in the opinion of the committee, the said Harry Innes hath not so acted in his official capacity as to require the constitutional interposition of the house.
Mr. Rowan, after observing that he should oppose that report moved that it lie on the table—carried.
The house went into committee of the whole on the bill concerning invalid pensioners. Several amendments were made to the bill, which were agreed to by the house, and it was ordered to be read a third time to-morrow.
The bill making provision for arming the whole body of the militia of the U. S. was read the third time and passed, 53 to 22.
The house went into committee of the whole on the following bill from the senate. AN ACT to authorise the president of the U. S. under certain conditions, to suspend the operation of the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the U. S. and the several acts supplementary thereto.
Be it enacted by the senate and house of representatives of the United States of America in congress assembled, That in the event of such peace or suspension of hostilities between the belligerent powers of Europe, or of such changes in their measures affecting neutral commerce, as may render that of the U. S. sufficiently safe in the judgment of the president of the U. S. he is hereby authorised, during the recess of congress, to suspend in whole or in part the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the U. S. and the several acts supplementary thereto, under such exceptions and restrictions, and on such bond and security being given as the public interest and circumstances of the case may appear to require: Provided, such suspension shall not extend beyond twenty days after the next meeting of congress.
Read the third time, and passed the senate.
Attest, SAMUEL A. OTIS, Secretary.
Mr. Randolph said that congress had got into a strange way lately of passing laws which did not correspond to their titles. The senate had passed a bill authorising the president to suspend the embargo "under certain restrictions;" but if it had said under uncertain restrictions, it would have come nearer to the truth. This bill under the mask of restricting the power of the president, in fact gave him an unqualified power. He therefore moved to amend the bill, by striking out all the words after the enacting clause, and inserting others, the purport of which was, that the acts laying the embargo should be repealed, so far as relates to France and Britain, their dependencies and the nations associated with them so soon as their decrees affecting neutral commerce shall be repealed, and the president shall have received official notification thereof. He had said nothing in this amendment about the outrage on the Chesapeake, because the embargo was never alleged to have any connection with that transaction, which stood on its own merits.
Mr. Quincey opposed this amendment. He contended that congress had a constitutional right to delegate this power to the president. The power of borrowing and of paying money depended upon events which could not possibly be predicted; and yet the failure of the president to do either of these renders the law a mere nullity. In the case, too, of an epidemic, congress had a right to prohibit all intercourse with the infected place; and surely they had a right, when they rose, to authorise the president to take off such a restriction. The only question with him was, whether it was expedient now to vest this power. This was all important, as it might involve the peace, perhaps the concord of this union. There were but three ways in which the embargo could be taken off—by repealing the law at once, by staying here, or by vesting the suspending power in the president. As to the first course, altho' he should be in favor of it, he should make no observations on it now, because he was convinced they would not be attended to. The second mode was to stay here and watch—what? The events expected might not occur before the next session. The third course was the one proposed by the bill, which he thought absolutely necessary and proper. By the proposed amendment, whatever favorable events might occur to justify the raising of the embargo, the president could not do it unless certain specified events took place. In expressing his present opinion, he was sure he should not be suspected of prejudices in favor of the president, or a wish to increase his power. Nothing could influence him, but a deep sense of the public good. Mr. Q. entered into a detailed view of the effects of the embargo, which he said was like some great visitation of nature, sweeping indiscriminately every thing before it; and yet, if the president was limited to certain specified events, this insupportable burthen might oppress the people until the next session of congress. Such conduct would be as unwise as that of a physician who would refuse to relieve his patient unless the sky should fall, or three birds of Paradise should fly into his window. Granting that this bill would vest an enormous power in the president, was not the embargo an enormous measure? Great evils will require great remedies; and this power was a power to
do good. The proposed amendment would compromise the honor of the nation: It declares that the embargo shall not be taken off until certain events should take place—these events might never take place, and yet we might be forced at last to take it off. Besides, the British government might say, that this was the very thing they wanted—that their only object was to drive us from the ocean—and that so long as they kept up their present measures, we had consented to abandon it. We say they cannot do without us—they say they can; and it was certainly a dubious point whether a nation did not receive as much benefit from foreign intercourse as she gave—whether there was not a perfect reciprocity in these matters.—He concluded by hoping this amendment would not prevail.
Mr. Key contended that this bill would give the president an unconstitutional power, and that congress had no right to delegate it. This bill, he said, authorised the president to raise the embargo, not in the event of peace or a suspension of hostilities, but in the event of "such peace," &c. Neither to do it—it depended entirely on his own will; and even after having done so, he was authorised to impose new "restrictions" on commerce. Mr. Key dwelt particularly on the danger of delegating the power of suspending laws. In the history of England, from the time of William the Conqueror, to the year 1688, but two instances of it could be found; and the convention which met at that time had declared it a dangerous practice, and it had never since been exercised.
Mr. Holland opposed the amendment. He gave a long catalogue of Mr. Randolph's inconsistencies; and observed, that the whole course of his political conduct seemed to be dictated by the whims of the moment.
Mr. Findley also spoke against the amendment; and Mr. Rowan in favor of it; when the question was taken, and it was lost.
Mr. Lewis offered to amend the bill so as to declare the embargo should be repealed. Mr. Randolph spoke in favor of this amendment. In the course of his remarks he observed, that he had it from good authority that upwards of one hundred thousand barrels of flour had been shipped from Baltimore alone, since the embargo was laid.
Similar circumstances had no doubt, he said, taken place in other cities; from which it was evident that the embargo was an encouragement for rogues to get rich at the expense of honest men. He mentioned a number of other evils resulting from the embargo, among which he enumerated the danger of smuggling.
Mr. Lewis's amendment was lost, yeas 22. The committee then rose, and reported the bill without amendment.
Mr. Key offered an amendment similar to Mr. Randolph's. The ayes and noes were taken on this amendment, and it was lost, ayes 22, noes 70.
Mr. Randolph renewed his amendment. The ayes and noes were taken on this also, and it was lost, ayes 26, noes 73.
Mr. Randolph then offered another amendment; and as they are now debating on it, and as the mail is about to close, I must close my letter; but you see there is a vast majority in favor of the bill.
The senate have passed a bill authorising the president of the United States to suspend the non-importation law (in pursuance of their second resolution yesterday sent.) Whether they will pass bills in pursuance of their other resolutions or not, remains to be seen.
Boarding House.
Mrs. MOODY, Has taken a large tenement on the Main-Street SHOCKOE HILL, near Mrs. Braxton's, in a healthy pleasant part of the city. Six or eight gentlemen may be accommodated with board upon moderate terms. Richmond. April 21st, 1808. 3
To Rent,
and immediate possession given, A Two Story Brick Tenement, nearly opposite the Methodist Meeting House, lately the property of George W. Dixon. For terms apply to the subscriber. Samuel White. law5w
Advertisement.
THE Subscriber respectfully informs his friends and the public, that he has lately received an Extensive Assortment of LEATHER, of the very best quality, which he will have manufactured in the BEST MANNER, to supply his customers, &c. and which he will dispose of on the most reasonable terms that such work can be sold. David Logan. April 7, 1808. 1
The Subscriber
Begs leave to inform his friends and the public generally, that he continues to carry on the Painting Business in all its branches, at his shop, on the cross street leading from the main street between Col. and Dr. Adams's, where all kinds of painting and gilding, shall be executed with neatness, punctuality and dispatch, on the lowest terms for each. Kilbee Wren. April 20 3
Was committed to the jail of Surry county the 15th of February last, a negro woman named NANCY, who says that she formerly belonged to Emanuel Robertson of Princess Ann County, Va. and was sold by him to Nathaniel Bowring of Kentucky, and that she made her escape from the said Bowring in the county of Nansemond on her way to Kentucky. Nancy is from eighteen to 20 years old, of rather a high complexion, four feet ten inches high, had on a calico jacket and Virginia cloth petticoat. The owner is requested to come forward, prove property, pay charges and take her away, otherwise she will be dealt with as the law directs. Benj. E. Browne, Sheriff. 15th April. 1808. 3w
Map of Virginia
For Sale at this Office.

Nicholas Hallam, NEW DOORS ABOVE THE SWAN TAVERN, HAS FOR SALE, on equally good terms as sold in Richmond, 360 wax and fair Calf Skins, Philadelphia manufacture. First quality Cossack boot legs do. do. Long, three quar- ter and half, draft, calf skin and Cordovan, do. Calf and Cordovan roundings and binding skins Bridle leather, &c. &c. Boots and Shoes.  Nails of all kinds. Family Bacon, Butter, Cheese, Lemons and Apples. A GENERAL ASSORTMENT OF  WELL CHOSEN GROCERIES. Boots and Shoes made to measures at short notice, and rips mended gratis. April 12. lawtf
The Subscriber, Having closed his business at the Tan Yard, HAS REMAINING ON HAND, a large parcel of well finished SLAUGHTER and  Spanish Sole Leather, among which a considerable part will answer for holsters, being light, which he offers for sale at reasonable prices on liberal credits, for approved endorsed notes. Marcus Elcan. April 18. 1808. oaw-f
THE SUBSCRIBER Being by a power of attorney, duly authorised to settle the accounts and collect the balances due to the following co-partners formerly of this city, viz Montgomery & Allen; Alexander Montgomery & Co. Montgo- mery's, Henry & Co. and Montgomery's & Henry, requests all those who remain indebted to either of said firms, to call and pay their respective ba- lances to him. GEO. WATT. Richmond, 26th March, 1808. lawtf
GUN POWDER FOR SALE, and SALT PETRE, WANTED. THE Subscribers have become partners in the Gun Powder Works, in the neighborhood of this city, formerly carried on under the firm of Hugh Warden and Sons—the said firm being dissolved by mu- tual consent. The partners whose firm is hereunto subscribed, will contract for a large quan- tity of Salt Petre, either crude or refined, of the best quality, to be delivered to them in this city, or to Mr. John Lesslie or Mr. Joseph Darnsatt, merchants, who will keep samples of the gun powder made at the works and receive orders for it. Letters addressed to the subscribers in Richmond will be duly answered. They assure the public that their powder has met with general approbation, it is made glazed and clean, equal in quality to imported powder, and they will furnish it in large or small quantities of every description, according to orders which may be sent to them; it will be delivered new from the works, and on such reasonable terms as they hope will procure it a preference to powder from abroad or from other states. As the said works have been establish- ed at considerable expense, and are superi- or in several respects to any in the upper country, so as to make the powder in a more perfect manner, the partners hope they will meet with that encouragement which improvement deserves from a gene- ral people. JOHN ELLIS AND HUGH WARDEN. Richmond, 18th April, 1808. w2m
ROBIN REDBREAST. THE imported horse Robin Redbreast, will stand the ensuing season at my stables, in the county of Chesterfield, 15 miles above Petersburg, to cover mares at 25 dollars the season, which may be dis- charged by the payment of 20 dollars at any time before the first day of October next, and one dollar to the groom. Good and ex- tensive pasture gratis, and the strictest attention paid to mares left in my care, but will not be responsible for accidents or es- capes. The pedigree and performance of Robin Redbreast, having been so often published, it is deemed unnecessary now to repeat them, suffice it to say, that he was got by Sir Peter Teazle, out of Wren, his half sis- ter, and is of nearer affinity to Sir Peter Teazle, (undoubtedly the best blood in En- gland) than any horse on this continent— His stock in this country is highly approved of, and run at 2 years old last fall with the greatest credit. THOMAS GOODE. March 19, 1808
Strayed or Stolen, FROM the Subscriber, on Thursday the 7th instant, A White Horse, and a Bay Mare. The horse is about 4 feet 7 inches high, a pa- cer, and blows when rode; his right hip shot: The mare lengthy made, marked with the gear, one white foot behind, not shod, and without any mark on her face. Whoever will take up said Horses shall be paid for their trouble and expense, and ten dollars for the rogue. WM. A. HALSEY. Richmond, April 14, 1808. 2p
JUST RECEIVED AT THIS OFFICE, No. 4, of THE  American Military Library OR, Repository of Modern Tactics; Adapted to the use of the Militia of the U- nited States.—Illustrated with a sheet plan of nineteen manoeuvres. (The plate alone sells for 75 cents.) March 9.
NOTICE. THE Subscribers having formed a connection in business, under the firm of HOVEY & SIZER, offer for sale, at the Store lately occupied by Mr. Charles F. Macmurdo, the follow- ing articles. 50 hds. N. E. Rum, 25 hds. loaf and lump sugar, 12 bags of pepper 2 ton of bar lead 10 boxes cotton and wool cards, 25 boxes candles 15 boxes N. York chocolate 25 trunks of shoes assorted 50 tierces Stone Lime. HENRY HOVEY, JAMES SIZER. ALL PERSONS who are indebted to the Subscriber are requested to make immediate payment. No further indulgence will be given to those whose bonds and accounts have been due six months. HENRY HOVEY. April 5th, 1808. ep5w
Will be Sold FOR ready money, on the premises on the fourth day of June next, in obedi- ence to a decree of the Superior Court of Chancery, for the Richmond District, made on the ninth day of February last past, in the suits in said Court, viz: Brown, Rives, and Company, Mer- chants and partners, } plfs. against William Alcock, Andrew Hart, Ro- bert Alcock, James Barbour, and Martin Dawson, } dfto. and William Galt, against William Alcock, Andrew Hart, Ro- bert Alcock, James Barbour, Brown, Rives & Company, Mar- tin Dawson & David Anderson, } dfto.
ONE TRACT or PARCEL OF LAND, in said suits mentioned, lying and being in the county of Albemarle, in the North Garden, on the head waters of Hardware river, containing SEVEN HUNDRED AND EIGHTY FOUR ACRES, be the same more or less, and adjoining the lands of James Garland, Hukey R. Morris, Wil- iam Woods, &c. subject to the life estate of the defendant Robert Alcock and Ma- ry his wife, in the lower moiety thereof. MARTIN DAWSON. March 21, 1808. 5w
For Sale or Rent, THE HOUSE, OFFICE & STABLE, with an excellent garden, all in good order, and at present occupied by Mr. Samuel P. Parsons, joining major Prior, on the Hay-Market square. For particulars apply to JASPER ROBBINS, at Mr. JOHN M'ENRY'S. Feb. 24, 1808
TO RENT  The House and Lot, AT present occupied by Mr. Hezekiah Mosby pleasantly situated on Shockoe Hill and very convenient for the accommodation of a fa- mily.—Possession may be had on the 3d March next, when Mr. Mosby's time will expire. Thomas Elliott. Richmond, 29 h Jan 1808. tf
REMOVAL. WE have removed our Countinghouse to the house immediately below, and contiguous to the one we have hitherto occupied, where we have for sale, Mucovado Sugar by the hogshead or barrel, Sherry Wine, in quarter casks, and a few cases Old Claret of superior quality. ROBERT & ALLAN POLLOCK, & Co. March 3, 1808. (if)
I AM desirous to exchange the following pro- perty, or any part thereof as may be agreed on, for a small tract of good Land, in a healthy situation, with a dwelling house and other im- provements, a good spring of water, and an a- greable neighborhood, at a distance of 50 to 100 miles up the country.—To say for Houses in this city—Lands in Henrico county, joining the aca- demy lands, and near this city—2,000 acres on Richland creek, in Lincoln county, Kentucky— 1,000 acres on the waters of the Ohio, in Mason county—and two tracts of Military Lands on the river Tennessee, each 866 2/3 acres. Robert Mitchell. Richmond, Feb. 6, 1808. tf
TO RENT, A GOOD TENEMENT on Market Alley, opposite the Market House; it is among the best stands in the neigh- borhood for a grocery. For terms apply to the subscriber or to Harry Tompkins ISAAC WEBSTER. February 15. tf
For Rent, THE House on the Main Street, next to Messrs Ellis and Allan, and now occupied by Mrs Phebe. Possession will be given on the first of January next—apply to JOSEPH GALLEGO Richmond, Dec. 27, 1807. tf
Valuable Lands. THE subscriber will sell, on a credit, or ex- change for Property in Richmond or its neighborhood, the following LANDS, to wit: 822 acres in the state of Kentucky, by survey bearing date the 10th day of October 1797, lying and being in the district set apart for the officers and soldiers of the Virginia state line, on Little Barren river. Also, 1000 acres, in Kentucky, by survey bearing date the 10th October 1797, likewise ly- ing in the district set apart for the officers and soldiers of the Virginia state line, on the north side of Little river, a branch of Cumberland ri- ver, and about two and an half miles from the mouth of Little river. Also, 450 acres of Land in the county of Ma- son, state of Virginia, on Old Town creek, about 8 miles from Mason courthouse. Indisputable titles will be made to the above mentioned lands; and plots of each tract may be seen on application to the subscriber residing in Richmond. THOMAS BOHANNAN. January 23d, 1808. tf
Wirt's Speeches. The Editor of the Argus has this day published the SPEECHES of WILLIAM WIRT, Esq. on the trial of AARON BURR, and others.
10 Dollars Reward. RUN AWAY from the subscriber in Albe- marle county, near Charlottesville, on Sun- day the 11th of April. A Negro Man, named George, Dark complexion, about thirty-two years old, five feet eleven inches high, stout and well made, took with him a negro cotton coat and overalls, also, a long blue coat, a smooth fur hat, nearly new, with a large brim. One of his arms is crooked, but would not be discovered without be- ing closely examined. I have reason to believe he is about Richmond. I will give the above re- ward to any person that will lodge the said ne- gro in jail, so that I get him again, or fifteen dollars if delivered to me in Albemarle, besides what the law allows. Joel Terrell. Albemarle, April 13, 1808. 3w
10 Dollars Reward. RUN AWAY from the Subscriber on Friday last, a Negro Man named JOHN, a carpenter by trade. He is six feet and upwards high, very likely, of in- sinuating manners, extremely polite when spoken to. For three years past he lived with Mr. Anderson Barrett. He has a free mulatto woman for his wife, in Rich- mond, living near the work house, where I expect he will stay. He took with him several articles of husbandry; amongst them, a pair of iron wedges, marked with the letter P. I will give a reward of ten dollars, if delivered to me in the lower end of Hanover, or eight if confined in jail, and I apprised of it. He is called by the ne- groes John Russell. ARMISTEAD RUSSELL. Hanover, January 24, 1808. tf
SALE OF NEGROES. IN pursuance of a deed of trust executed to me by John Ogilby of the county of Person, North Carolina, for purposes therein expressed, I shall on the first day of April next, if fair, if not the next fair day, proceed to sell, at the Red House in Caswell county, (N. C.) to the highest bidder, for ready money, the following SLAVES to wit: James, Davy, Tom, Adam, Bob and Major, or as many of them as will be sufficient to answer the purposes of said deed. Wm. S. Archer. March 4th, 1808. wds
** The sale of the above mentioned proper- ty is postponed until Thursday the 5th of May. April 7, 1808. Charlotte Court, 8th March, 1808. Nathaniel Journey and Lucy his wife Charles Hundley and Martha his wife and Thomas Estis, } Piffs. AGAINST Anthony Hundley and Mary his wife, Jac- ob Beading and Mildred his wife, Wil- iam Cockrum and Nancy his wife, Evin Sneed and Elizabeth his wife, Carter White, executor of John White and guardian of the orphans of the said John White, Frances White, Sarah Walker and John Estis, administrator of Elisha Estis, } Dfto.
THE defendants Anthony Hundley and Mary his wife, Jacob Beading and Mildred his wife, William Cockrum and Nancy his wife and Sarah Walker, not having entered their appearance ac- cording to the act of assembly and the rules of this court, and it appearing to the satisfaction to the court that they are not inhabitants of this state; on the motion of the plaintiffs by their attorney—It is ordered, that they appear here on the first day of August court next and enter their appearance; and that a copy of this order be inserted in one of the newspapers printed in Richmond for two months successively and post at the front door of the court house of the said county. A Copy. Teste, Thomas Read, clk. (8p)
NOTICE. WILL DISPOSE OF MY  TRACT OF LAND, LYING in Powhatan county, containing 500 acres, of which there is 80 or more prime low grounds, which never is over-flowed by the river Appomattox. There is also a fine mill seat, the dam nearly completed, and timbers ready to complete the mill, upon a never failing stream. The terms will be one-half cash, the balance in 12 months. I will sell or treat with any one be- tween this and the 1st July next, otherwise it will be sold upon the premises, to the highest bidder, together with other property. The terms of the personal property will be made known on the day of sale. John H. Saunders. January 5, 1808. ids
The noted & much admired ENGLISH HORSE  Jack Andrews; IMPORTED by W. Light- foot, Esq. of Charles City county, and now his property, full 15 and a 1-2 hands high, a blood bay, finely formed, in high health, vigor and spirit, the most active and best bottomed horse ever imported into this country, now rising 14 years old. Will stand the ensuing season at Tem- ple Hill, on Mechanic's river, in Albemarle county, ten miles above Charlottesville, within 1 mile of German's mill and 2 miles of the brick tavern, and will be let to mares at five guineas the season, which may be discharged by the payment of 20 dollars if paid by the 10th day of August. Gentle- men's notes will be required with their mares for 5 guineas discharged as above; 3 guineas the leap, and 40 dollars to insure a mare to be with foal, and one dollar with each mare to the groom; the leap and groom money to be paid when the mare is covered. Provided the mare is changed, the owner shall be liable. The season will commence the first day of March and end the first day of August. Extensive low and high ground pasture, well enclosed, in three separate fields, gratis. Servants will be boarded at $2 per week, and grain will be furnished at the market price and given in manner and quantity agreeably to di- rection, and all possible care taken to pre- vent accidents and escapes but will not be liable for any that may happen. JAMES KINSOLVING, For William Lightfoot.
This celebrated horse's performances in En- gland, has not been inferior to any horse there.
except his brother Dick Andrews, who is con- sidered now the best horse in that country, giving 7 pounds—Jack Andrews won twice in 1797, then Mr. Lord's property—See Racing Calendar for that year. At Worcester, July 5th a maiden plate of £50 for 3 years old, 6 stone, 4 mile heats, was won by Jack Andrews, at 3 heats, beating Mr. Darling- ton's ch f Miss Edwina, 4 years old; Mr. Atkin- son's ch m Priscilla, aged; Sir W. W. Wynns ch f Sweet Botherem, 5 years old; Mr. Hardins br c Eglantine, 4 years old. Stafford, October 7th—The town purse of £50 4 mile heats, was won by Jack Andrews, 3 years old, at 3 heats, beating Mr. Betterson's Lilies Pickle, 4 years old; Mr. Barlow's Roderick, 4 years old; Mr. Denham's Honest Tom, 6 years old; Sir W. W. Wynns b h True Blue, 5 years old. In 1798, at Nantwich, Thursday, July 8th— £50, for 3 and 4 years old, he won, beating Mr. Bayley's ch c Cannon, 4 years old; Stamford's b f Scotland, 3 years old. Denby, August 15th—He won £50, free for anyone, beating Lilly of the Valley, Falconer and True Blue. In 1799, he won twice, to wit: At Ludlow, on Friday, the 4th of July, 4 mile heats, free for all ages, beating Lord Oxford's ch c Dart at 3 heats. At Worcester, August 8th—He won the city and county subscription of £50, 4 mile heats, at 3 heats, beating Mr. Artley's Filly Duchess, 4 years old; Mr. Coventry's b h Integrity, late Partner; Mr. Snell's ch g Hocks, 5 years old— after the first heat 4 to 1 on her; after the second heat 4 to 1 on Jack Andrews. In 1800 he won 6 times, to wit: At Lewes, then the property of Major Rooke, August 12th, he beat Lord Sackville's b h Laborie, 4 mile heats for 50 guineas.—At Oxford, the town plate of £50, in August, was won by Jack Andrews, at 4 heats, beating Sir F. Poole's ch m Duchess of Limbs, 5 years old. Lord Donegall's b h Wrangle distanced the 4th heat—September, at Warwick, he won the town plate of £50, 4 mile heats, beating Mr. Tharm's b h Marquis, Mr. Brooks's b h Sheshire, Mr. Edwards' b m Dut- chess.
At Abingdon, Tuesday, September 16th, the members' purse of £50, for all ages, 4 mile heats was won by Jack Andrews, at 3 heats, beating Sir F. Poole's ch m Miscreant, 5 years old, Mr. Whaley's ch h Expectation, Mr. Fragley's b h Cupid—six to four on Miscreant. In 1801, Jack Andrews at New Market, April 20th, received forfeit from Mr. Hethercoate's Symmetry, 8 stone, 5 lb. 200 guineas, half for- feit. Bebury, June 16th—The Bebury stakes, a han- dycap of 100 guineas each, half forfeit, 4 mile, was won by Jack Andrews, aged, beating Lord Sackville's b h Expectation, 5 years old, Sir H. T. Vane's Cock fighter, 5 years old, Mr. Heth- coat's Hipponia, aged, his royal highness the Prince of Wales's b h Dick Andrews, Mr. Heath- coat's Pofingay and Cox's Edwin. June 17th, a sweepstake of 5 guineas each, 20 subscribers was won by Jack Andrews, beating col. Grevener's Lady Catherine, Mr. Howorth's Snuff Box. Bedford, September 10th—The Woburn Stake of 10 guineas each, 4 mile, 5 subscribers, was won by his royal highness the Prince of Wales's b h Jack Andrews, aged, beating Mr. Watson's b h Triumvir, Mr. Gilding's b c Skyrocket. Endfield, September 23, £50, for all ages, 4 mile heats, was won by Jack Andrews, aged, at 3 heats, beating Mr. Progley's g g Ploughboy, Velvet horse Little Thought-Of, Hephastion and Consecrator—See Racing Calendars for these years. It would swell an advertisement to too great length to mention all the races he has won. Sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, 2 mile, 5 subscribers, Mr. Rooke's Jack Andrews, aged, 11 st. 7 lb. walked over.—See Racing Calendar for 1802, page 385. At Lambourne, in Sept. Wednesday 10th, he won the £50 gift of Lord Craven, 4 mile heats, at 4 heats, beating Mr. Coventry's ch h Sacripant, Mr. Bacon's b m Snap
WILLIAM LIGHTFOOT.  PEDIGREE Jack Andrews was got by Joe Andrews, his dam by Highflyer, his grandam Cardinal Puff, his great grandam by Tattler, his great great grandam by Snip, his great great great grandam by Lord Godolphin's Arabian, his great great great grandam by Stanyan's Arabian, which mare was own sister to Frazar's White Neck, full sister to the Minbury Galloway, great great great great grandam by Sauce Box, a son of Gegg, sire of Crock's Old Partner. JAMES LORD. (Seal) I do hereby certify that the above pedigree is a true copy from the original one sent me in Jan. Lord Given under my hand and seal this 23d of December, 1804. WILLIAM LIGHTFOOT, (Seal)
Joe Andrews was got by Eclipse, his dam Al- amanda by Ominum, her dam Cloudy by Blank— Crab, Wedding on mare by Partner—General Stud Book, page 6th, printed in 1803, by James Wheatley.
The Famous High Blooded English Horse  HAMBLETON, BRED by the Duke of Graf- ton, a beautiful bright bay, near 16 hands high, of high form and elegance, rising 16 years old, in good health and great per- fection, imported by Wm. Lightfoot, Esq. of Charles City county, will stand the ensuing sea- son, at my plantation in Hanover county, 20 miles from Richmond and 2 from Hanover Town and New Castle, to cover mares at 6 guineas the sea- son, for which a note will be required, discharge- able by the payment of 20 dollars at any time be- fore the first of August next, when the season will expire, with one dollar to the groom for each mare, paid at the stable door. Ten dollars the single leap, and 40 dollars to insure a mare with foal. Good and extensive pasture, well enclosed, with branches running through the flat land affording as good forward pastures as any in this part of the country, gratis. Servants that may be sent with mares will be boarded for two dol- lars per week, and mares fed, if required, on rea- sonable terms. The greatest attention will be paid by my overseer, Mr. John Hog, but no liabil- ity for escapes or accidents. * Any gentleman putting 6 mares to Ham- bleton may send one gratis. GEORGE BLAKEY. February 15, 1808.
PERFORMANCES This horse ranks very high as a racer, both for speed and bottom, as he proved successful in 20 races before he left the turf, 4 of which he walked over, none venturing to start against him. In 94
at Hambleton, Yorkshire, on Wednesday, May 14th, he won a sweepstakes of ten gs each, for 3 year olds, 6 subscribers, 2 miles, beating Mr. B- yell's b f by Magnum Bonum, Pierce's b f by Young Marske, Turner's Conederacy, and Cran- dock's ch c Leicester. In York he won 50l. for 3 year olds, beating Lowther's b c Griffin, Crump- ton's ch c Ambush, Sheppard's Madcap, Clifton's b c Cedar, and Garforth's ch c—even betting on Ambush against the field. At Manchester, in June, he won 50l. for 3 year olds, two mile heats, beating Foreigner and Loyalty. At Stockton, Sept. 20, he won a sweepstakes of 20 gs each, 5 subscribers, when Sir H. Williamson's property, formerly Mr. Hutchinson's, beating Field's High- flyer, out of Wren and Turner's Delphine.—In 1795, Hambleton won 5 times, to wit: a handicap plate of 50l. 2 mile heats. At 4 years old, beating Insect, Blacklegs and Wathia's b c 5 years old. At Edinburgh, July 20, he won his majesty's plate of 100 gs 4 years old, 4 mile heats, beating Greyson's b h Archer, 6 years old, Mr. Peacock's ch g Farmer, and Mr. Wilson's Greeping Kate. At Dumfries in Oct. he won 50l. beating Lord Dar- lington's b m Constant. In 1796, Hambleton won at Kelso, Oct. 3, a purse of 50 gs beating Mr. Da- tor's Black Cock. In 1797, he won 8 times, to wit: at Middleham, in Yorkshire, a sweepstake, as often gs each 5 subscribers, 3 mile heats, beating Merry Lad and Arthur. At Edinburgh, on Wed- nesday the 26th, 50 gs for all ages, beating Eliza Fox and Betsey. On Friday the 28th, the ladies subscription purse of 50 gs beating Fletcher's Jane. At Montrose, in Scotland, August, he walked o- ver the ground for a 50l. plate, and also walked over the ground for a subscription of 50l. At Kelso, Oct 16 for a plate of 50 gs he walked over the ground—and also his majesty's 100 gs given to the Caledonian Hunt, for any horse, &c. carry- ing 12 st 4 mile heats, then 6 years old, he won against Mr. Wentworth's Trimbush, Piermont's Trimmer, aged, and Kinkade's Hector, aged— and Saturday following, a purse of 50l. given by the Hunt, free for any horse, &c. beating Far- well and Koller. At Carlisle he won 100 gs of Mr. Sitwell, beating his b f by Meteor. In 1798, he won at Edinburgh, August, 50l. for all ages, beating Maxwell's Arab, and Mr. Moule's Hipp- popamus. At Montrose he won a plate of 50 gs for all ages, beating Pistoche and Contraster. See the racing Calendars for the foregoing years. WM. LIGHTFOOT.
Colt's Performances—London. Hambleton's colts also rank very high as racers, both for speed and bottom, as they proved them- selves good runners in England. In 1803 at Catter- ick bridge, on Thursday 18th, Wentworth's b c Silverheels by Hambleton, two years old, won a sweepstakes of ten gs 3 subscribers, two mile, beating Mr. Kiddie's b c by Overton, dam of Spu- dille; Mr. Lonsdale's ch c by Piperdam, dam by Pay- master—Lord Sirahmore's g f by Overton, dam by Delphin—Several others also started but were not placed.—Durham, Wednesday, 24th, a Wed- den Plate of 50l., given by the country members, for all ages, 3 mile heats. Sir H. Williamson's b c by Hamilton, 2 years old, run 4 heats, and proved second best—and 4 others started and proved themselves good runners.
CERTIFICATES. London, 17th February, 1806. William Lightfoot, Esq.
Dear Sir—Hambleton ought to stand very high with you, as his colts in this country turn out excellent runners, &c. To Gen. I put five mares to Hambleton, and they all proved in foal, and the colts fine and large—Al- so have a mare which has bro't me four colts, one by Diomed, one by Dragon, one by Seagull, and another by Hambleton, and the Hambleton colt has the preference of either: I think her one of the finest fillies, both in size and figure that I ever saw.—Given under my hand. Henry Lester. Lunenburgh, 5th May, 1806.
This will certify that I put a mare to Hamble- ton in 1804, when he stood at Mr. H. Lester's in Charlotte county, and am as well pleased, if not better, with the colts by him, than with any the same mare ever had—she previously bred by Coeur de Lion, Diomed, Quickstep and Dion. Thos. Lester. Charlotte county.
In the year 1804 I put a mare to Hambleton, then kept by Mr. H. Lester of this county, and am fully persuaded that it is the best colt the mare ever had, and is in my estimation the best colt I ever bred from any horse.—I moreover never have heard of any complaining of their colts from that horse. Thomas Read, Jr. Hanover County.
I herewith certify that Mr. Wm. Lightfoot's horse Hambleton, stood at my stable the last sea- son, and that he has proved an excellent foal get- ter: his colts would do credit to any horse on the continent. Mr. Wm. Morris of

As a document proper to be perused, in conjunction with the letter of Mr. MONROE in vindication of the rejected treaty, which appeared in the last Argus, we shall on Friday present to our readers the very important letter of Mr. MADISON to Messrs. Monroe and Pinkney, dated May 20, 1807, in which he fully and ably stated the grounds for rejecting the treaty signed by them, and also gave them further instructions relative to future attempts at negotiation.
This excellent composition, while it unanswerably demonstrates the glaring as well as less obvious defects of the rejected treaty, displays, moreover, in a strong light, the candor and friendly consideration, which the President and Secretary of State (notwithstanding those defects) manifested towards our honest, tho' unsuccessful, and, we may add, unskilful and injudicious negotiators.
We think the general impression of the readers of these documents must be, that the epithets we have used are properly applicable to the conduct of Messrs. Monroe and Pinkney, in this transaction; that, altho' their integrity and patriotism is unquestionable, their reputation for political sagacity and wisdom will be greatly diminished, when it is known that they not only signed but themselves approved of an instrument (as expedient, or necessary to be ratified) which would have sacrificed, or put in jeopardy, so many of the rights and essential interests of this country. Mr. Monroe is peculiarly unfortunate in appearing before the public, as the solitary advocate of the treaty, which, (since they who administer the government, had not accused him of any impropriety of conduct,) it was altogether unnecessary for him to defend. He surely need not have coupled his own character with the disastrous and sinking reputation of that instrument, which nothing can save from almost universal detestation. The only effect of this ill-starred connexion, must be to obscure the splendor of his virtues; and, such is the esteem we still feel for him, that we sincerely lament the occurrence as calculated to injure, if not forever to destroy in public estimation, one of the most upright, if not most able statesmen in America.
The opposition of Mr. JOHN RANDOLPH to the bill "to authorise the President of the U. S. under certain conditions, to suspend the operation of the Act laying an EMBARGO on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the U. S. and the several Acts supplementary thereto", corresponds with what might have been expected from the strange inconsistent political character which for several years past has exhibited. A list of a few of his numerous self-contradictions during that period, might not be unacceptable to our readers, and when we have time and space to spare, we may devote a column to detailing them particularly. At present, we shall only observe that this gentleman, who seems at present to be uniform in nothing but his persevering rancor against the administration, first declared that, whenever there should be an appearance of approaching war, the first measure he would propose would be an Embargo. When an Embargo was proposed, though Mr. Randolph himself could not deny the danger of war to be imminent, he violently opposed it: and now, with equal violence, he proposes a measure by which the same Embargo may be taken off! His curious reason for the last opposition is, that it would be prostrating all the commerce and resources of the country at the feet of England. Surely common sense ought to have told him, the wide distinction between the power of laying an Embargo and that of taking it off; that a power given the President to restore the commerce of the U. States to its old channel, by suspending the operation of the Embargo for a limited time, was in its own nature not capable of being exercised for mischievous purposes, though it certainly might, in the event of such peace or subsequent powers of Europe, or of such changes in their measures affecting neutral commerce, as may render that of the U. States sufficiently safe, be highly salutary and convenient.
Who laid the Embargo? Congress. Who can take it off? Congress only, unless congress shall authorise the President to do it. According to Mr. Randolph, congress ought either to continue perpetually in session, until the acts laying the embargo can be safely repealed, or, if circumstances, after its adjournment, should render it proper to relieve the people from those inconveniences which Mr. Randolph himself has so often and so pathetically lamented, they must continue subject to them all, until the next regular session of that body, or until an extra session can be called for the purpose!
This is truly a very singular way of diminishing the public burthens and embarrassments; but is all of a piece with Mr. Randolph's system of opposing every measure, not because it is wrong in itself, but because it is brought forward by the friends of the present administration! The people, it is hoped, will consider this, and estimate correctly the value of the patriotism and wisdom of a politician, whose conduct is either governed altogether by principles of factious animosity and malice, or totally destitute of any guide, is driven about by every gust of passion or whim.
Delegates chosen to serve in the ensuing General Assembly of this state. Prince Edward. John Farnall & Farlon Woodson, Esqrs. New-Kent. Robert Christian and John Hunt Christian, Esqrs. Prince George. Allen Temple* & Chas Gee, Esqrs. Mecklenburg. James Jones* and Francis Walker, Esqrs. Wythe. Daniel Sheffey* and Jos. Crockett, Esqrs. Montgomery. John McHenry and Jas. Craig, Esqrs.
Campbell. E. Watts* & A. Moorman, Esqrs. Goochland. James Carter* & John Underwood, Esqrs. Louisa. Frederick Harris* and David Watson, Esqrs. Powhatan. Wm. Pope and Dr. Edward Johnson, Esqrs. Dinwiddie. Robert Pegram and Wright Tucker, Esqrs. Fairfax. Gen. Thompson Mason & Geo. Graham, Esqrs. King & Queen. John H. Smith & John Roue, Esqrs. Culpeper. John Roberts and George Strother, Esqrs. Richmond county. Vincent Redman and F. Brockenbrough, Esqrs. Northumberland. James Harvey & Hiram Blackwell, Esqrs. Prince William. William Tyler and John H. Peyton, Esqrs. Norfolk county. William C. Holt and James W. Murdaugh, Esqrs.
SENATOR For the district composed of the counties of Fairfax and Prince William, RICHARD BRENT, Esq.
LATEST ACCOUNTS. At Havana, Flour was at 24 dollars, Beef 14, Pork 22; great abundance of provisions. At Port Maria, (Jam.) Flour 18 dollars; great plenty of provisions. At Savanna-la-Mar, (Jam.) Flour thirty dollars. At St. Croix, Flour 14 dollars, Beef 12 and Pork 24.
We have received from Boston says the National Intelligencer a copy of a letter written by John Q. Adams on the present state of our national affairs, with remarks on Mr. Pickering's letter.
So far as we have perused this pamphlet, it reflects great honor on the head and heart of the writer. The sentiments it avows are truly American, and in the most irrefragable manner it refutes the arguments and repels the libels of Mr. P.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Georgia, dated March 14, 1808. "The embargo has had its effect on the citizens of Mobile and Pensacola. They are almost in a state of starvation. Corn is four dollars per bushel—bacon 50 cents per pound—hogs lard one dollar per quart—fowls 9 dollars per dozen. What they will do by summer if the embargo continues, I cannot say."
"A ship loaded with coffee, carrying 50 men and 24 guns, under American colors, has been taken by the Spaniards, and her cargo is now selling at Pensacola. (Wash. Fed.)"
The Baltimore American of the 13th inst. received last evening, says—"By the arrival of the sch'r Adeline, from Point Petre, (Guadaloupe) we have been politely furnished by a friend with a copy of a decree issued by general Ernouf opening all the ports of Guadaloupe, and its dependencies to the entry of French and neutral vessels, laden with provisions, free from duty."
Prior to the adjournment of the legislature of the state of New York, it appears they have authorised a loan to be made to the amount of 450,000 dollars, in sums to individuals, not exceeding 500 dollars each. The loans are to be general, and to extend to every county—to be secured by mortgage on real estate.
From the Aurora.
BARING'S PAMPHLET. We recommend, most earnestly, to the perusal and consideration of our readers, a pamphlet lately published by Mr. A. Baring, of London. It is a work written by an Englishman in the spirit of an Englishman, zealous above all other considerations, for the good, and safety, and prosperity of his own country; it is a work rare indeed, coming from an English merchant and politician, for it is written with the ease and elegance of a gentleman, and with the liberality and candor of a philosopher.
We recommend this pamphlet as the best means by which the conduct of the British government towards the U. S. may be appreciated.
We recommend it, because it demonstrates the fallacy of British policy, and establishes the truth of that inveteracy of hatred towards the U. S. which the sincere friends of American independence, have constantly deprecated.
We recommend it as something better than a reply to an article which has never, in our estimation, merited any other than the contempt of every American—we allude to the wretched libel written by Timothy Pickering.
We recommend it, as a fair and manly exposition of the true question, which now agitates the world, the disputes between France and England, and the conduct of both towards the U. S.
As a work founded on what is called political economy, it is very able; and as a political discussion, very little inferior to Mr. Roscoe's admirable pamphlet.
It places the usurpation of the British, on the occasion, on that ground which it has been at all times placed in this paper; and is peculiarly perspicuous, luminous, and candid to magnanimity, on the powers usurped under the constructions of what is called the law of 1756.
Adices are said to be received, by a mercantile house in this city, stating the liberation of all the American vessels carried into Spanish ports, under the Spanish construction of the Milan decree. Aurora.
The emperor of France is stated to be on a visit to Madrid, and that he has signified his purpose to be, to re-establish the national character, and resources of Spain; to extricate that ancient and respectable nation from the gloomy subjection of habits of habits antiquated and unsuitable to the genius of the age and the spirit of civilization and philosophy; to establish in concert with the reigning family, a new order of things, and the total abolition of institutions which have proved destructive of the Spanish nation. 15.
It is notorious, and we have it on authority the most unquestionable, that there now remains in Halifax, American property to the amount of several millions. This property has been legally released by the proper tribunal; but is still detained. Why is it so? The judge dare not take the responsibility on himself—it must be under the influence of secret orders, and held for future sequestration.—Public Adv.
From a New York paper. On Wednesday the 30th ult. in the house of assembly of this state, while the militia bill was under discussion a motion was made and advocated by Mr. Warner, of N. York, to tax the Quakers TEN DOLLARS a year as an exemption from militia duty.
Mr. Williams, of this place, zealously and ably opposed the motion. He said, the quaker's aversion to military duty did not arise from an indifference to the interests of their country. They were among its warmest friends. But their principles forbade them, not only to bear arms, but even to sit on a jury, when the life of a fellow-creature might be in question. He thought the present price of exemption (three dollars) was a sufficient tax on the consciences of these people. A heavier burthen would be the rankest persecution. We have just passed a clause (said Mr. Williams) subjecting a military delinquent to imprisonment where property enough to pay his fine cannot be found, and now shall we go further, and say, that a poor man, who has conscientious scruples on this head, shall be imprisoned for his principles? He hoped not. Amongst the quakers (continued Mr. Williams) are some of the worthiest citizens of our country. They are a peaceable, orderly people, who do not meddle unnecessarily with the spiritual or political concerns of others. They impose no burthens on the community. They manage their own affairs. They support their own poor. So rigid and correct are they in their morals and conduct, that we have no convicts from their society. Why, then, exert from them such an enormous tax? Why impose upon them burthens so unequal and unjust?
We cannot do full justice to the speech of Mr. Williams; but the above is the substance of it. The motion for ten dollars was lost. Five dollars was then proposed; but this being also strenuously opposed, the committee rose.
During the pendency of the same bill, a motion was made for taxing able bodied persons from 18 to 45 years of age, who are exempt from military duty by offices, &c in the same manner that quakers are taxed.
Mr. Van Rensselaer, of this county, hoped that those who were such advocates for taxing the quakers would agree to this motion. He could see no reason why those who were enjoying the honors and emoluments of civil offices, should be wholly exempt from burthens required for the defence of the country.
The motion was lost.
FROM THE ESSEX REGISTER.
Embargo will save us. An attempt at wit so as to put the words "Embargo will ruin us," that it may be read 270 ways, has produced the following, which may be read as many times (beginning at the centre letter E) and may be more readily believed:— s u e v a s l l i w i l l s a v e u s e v a s l l i w o g o w i l l s a v e u s v a s l l i w o g r g o w i l l s a v e u s a s l l i w o g r a b a r g o w i l l s a v e u s l l i w o g r a b m b a r g o w i l l s a v e u s l i w o g r a b m E m b a r g o w i l l s a v e u s l l i w o g r a b a r g o w i l l s a v e u s a s l l i w o g r a r g o w i l l s a v e u s v a s l l i w o g o w i l l s a v e u s e v a s l l i w o w i l l s a v e u s s u e v a s l l i w i l l s a v e u s
WASHINGTON CITY, April 18. On Saturday the Senate ordered to a third reading a bill authorising the President to suspend in whole or in part the operation of the embargo, or the event of such peace or suspension of hostilities, between the belligerent powers of Europe, or of such changes in their measures affecting neutral commerce, as may render that of the U. States sufficiently safe in his judgment.
The Vice-President of the U. S. having on Friday retired from the chair of the Senate, Gen. Smith of Maryland was elected President pro tempore.
New York, April 13.
Capt. Lawson, from St. Croix, informs us that the island of Martinique was in a state of revolt, occasioned by famine; and that the inhabitants having received a partial supply of provisions from the British, had solicited them to take possession of the island.
Capt. L. further informs, that two British frigates had captured the island of Marie-galante, where they found five millions weight of coffee, which they were about to carry off in British vessels that had been ordered there for the purpose.
The British colonies in the West Indies are represented as being well supplied with flour, a large quantity having been shipped to St. Croix from Barbadoes.
Sailed yesterday morning for Bordeaux, by permission of government, the ship Arcurus, captain Main. We understand she has on board including passengers and crew, one hundred and ten souls.
A manufacturing company is about to be established in Philadelphia.—Its capital stock is to consist of 50,000 dollars, divided into shares of 50 dollars each. The affairs of the company are confined to nine managers annually chosen. The joint funds of the company are declared to be alone liable for the discharge of the company engagements. Subscription books for the taking up of stock in this institution, are to be opened this day in Philadelphia, at the Shakespeare Hotel. The articles of association are twenty, and principally relate to the government of the institution, which is brought into existence from the same patriotic motives as those which give rise to a similar one in Baltimore.
FOR THE ARGUS.
MISS M***, PLAYING AND SINGING.
BEAUTY strikes to music's measure, In the dearest notes of pleasure! Fancy paints with Hope the scene, And lists the tones that thrill between! Loud but warbling chords vibrating, Raise the soul with joy elating: Delightful rapture gems the eyes, And sympathizing bosoms rise! Now mild and sweet she lils the song, And gently moves the keys along; Soft-breathing gales and op'ning flow'rs, And perfum'd Spring with rosy bow'rs, And wooing-birds on sportive wings, And am'rous swains and nymphs she sings. Now softer still in languid strains, She tells of love's desponding pains, Till by the theme to sorrow driv'n, Her wild notes reach the vault of heav'n! Hark! she sings the storm of battle! Hark! the mimic thunders rattle! And louder still now swells the strain, Which bursts upon the phrenzy'd brain! "Sulph'rous clouds of darkest dye, "O'er the field of slaughter fly, "And flashing lights of gleaming terror, "But serve to glance the scene of horror! "In crimson'd arms the hero rushes, "Nor heeds the vital stream which gushes! "His hoof the courser dyes in blood, "And purple torrents stain the flood! "The ranks impetuous fate drives o'er, "And hurls her shafts, and feasts on gore! "By harpies drawn, on thunder'ing cars; "Triumphant death pervades the war; "With scarlet stole conceals his bones, "And drinks with joy the dying groans!"—And now! how chang'd! the sprightly sounds, Inviting quick to pleasure's rounds! The wanton blood with circling maze, In dances revels as she plays.—And see! the dulcet harp she takes, And as her voice she lifts, awakes Responsive to the warbling wire, Each flame that can the bosom fire. On! why alas! has thoughtless heav'n, To female breasts the passion giv'n, And with that passion giv'n the power, Of kindling in a sportive hour, Flames which they never will return, And only raise to see them burn! C. Richmond, 17th April, 1808.
BRITISH PARLIAMENT.
AFFAIRS OF AMERICA.
In the House of Lords on the 15th of February, while the orders of Council were in consideration, Lord Auckland said, do noble lords recollect the nature and extent of the connexion of this country with America? Have they well weighed the immense advantages we derive from that intercourse? Do they bear in their minds the amount of the imports by America from this kingdom? Have they seriously considered what the consequences of a rupture with America must be to so many descriptions of persons in this country? Have they examined why the last year has brought such an accession to our exports, and have they not discovered that the main source from which that increase of commerce has sprung, was the condition in which America stood between the two belligerents, and the facilities which it afforded to enrich us by enriching America. Inoble lords have seriously turned all these considerations in their mind, and yet feel not the impolicy of these orders in council, their minds must be very differently organised from his.
Noble lords, he observed, would also, please to take into their consideration the endless embarrassments in which neutrals, but particularly Americans must be involved, by the crossing provisions and enactments of these orders. They varied according to the nature of the cargoes, and the place for which they were destined. Whatever may be the nature of their cargoes, or the course of their destination, they must all come first to England, and be subject to a duty in this country, before they proceed to any other destination. The certificates of origin were also liable to the most serious objections; in short, the orders of council appeared to him to be contrary to every law; to be as irrecusable with policy as with justice.
Lord Erskine observed—Should we be involved in a rupture with America, what misfortunes must there not arise from it? It was already acknowledged on both sides of the house, that our intercourse with all America was a main source of our commercial prosperity. Shall we ourselves dry it up. Shall we be instrumental in impoverishing America, the whole of whose wealth flowed into this country? Shall our violence compel her to turn her thoughts to the creation of a navy and manufactures, contrary to the wise advice of Washington, and thereby fix her attention on what may afterwards be turned to our destruction? Why not rather lend America the protection of our navy, and enable her to accumulate the wealth which will soon flow back to enrich ourselves.
Government had it still in its power to perform a spontaneous act, and recall whatever measure had been adopted inimical to the interests of America. He implored them to do so, he felt all the value of our friendly intercourse with the U. States.—To cultivate and improve that connexion, should be our anxious study and incessant care.
Lord Grenville again said, "There could not be a rational hope entertained that America would submit to this measure. He thought a rupture with America would be one of the most ruinous external calamities that could befall this country, and was ready to make any effort to prevent it. If they had then to discuss the propriety of the measures that had been taken, he was sure they would never sanction them with their approbation. But his majesty's servants had taken the whole responsibility upon themselves, and done away the deliberation of parliament. They had now nothing to do but to tread back their steps, and not to continue in error to avoid the shame of retraction. It was not from any distrust of the resources of the country that he feared a rupture with America, but because a war with
that country on the ground of these orders would be unjust, and in the prosecution of it they could not expect the same feeling would animate their defence, as if they were convinced of the justice of their cause. The boon that was said to be given by these orders to America, was no more than what she had a right to, and what this country had no right to take from her. As to the duties proposed to be levied under these orders of council, he should only say, that when the peace of 1782 took place, he never thought that he should have lived to see the day, when a proper provision would be made to impose a tax on American produce. He was sorry to find there, by certain resolutions on the table, that certain articles of the domestic produce of America were to be liable to a duty. America could never submit to such conditions, and it was an act of gross injustice to impose any duty on goods not intended to be imported into this country, when forced into our ports under the execution of these orders of council."
From the N. Y. Public Advertiser.
Yesterday was placed at the Wallabout, the corner stone of the tomb for the relief of those prisoners who perished in the British prison ship Jersey. The day was uncommonly pleasant; it seemed as if the sky smiled on the tribute which the true sons of America were paying to the memory of American patriots. The procession, consisting of a very large body of citizens—of the marines—the committee, with the corner stone drawn by horses, under waving colors—and a corps of artillery, arrived at the sepulchre about one o'clock. After the ceremony of placing the stone was over, and the military frings had finished, Joseph D. Pay, esq. attorney at law of this city, delivered an address, which did honor to his head and his heart. It was spoken with more than common energy and propriety, and drew tears from the eyes of a numerous audience. It is hoped that this address will be given to the public.
A SPECTATOR.
"Let us in bonds of lasting peace unite, "And celebrate the Hymeneal rite."
MARRIED, on Thursday the 14th inst. by the Revd. Mr. Buchanan, Mr. William Lownes to the amiable Miss ARIANA GLYNN, all of this city.
Death.
Died on Friday the 22d inst. Mrs. SARAH WARDLAW, the amiable consort of Dr. Wm. Wardlaw, of this city. She will long be affectionately remembered by her friends and acquaintances.
Postscript.
LATE NEWS FROM EUROPE.
The fast sailing ship Protection, captain Bearnes, arrived at this port last evening in 29 days from Belfast, and furnishes to the office of the MERCANTILE ADVERTISER, Belfast papers to the 19th of March, inclusive, containing London dates to the 14th, being nineteen days later than our last advices from that quarter.
Captain Bearnes informs us it was the general opinion in England that Mr. Ross would adjust the differences between that country and this, in which case it was expected the embargo would not continue longer than the 22d of March. Petitions for Peace with America were sending in to Parliament from all parts of the kingdom. No prospect presented itself of an accommodation between France and England. Markets for American produce very high.
Land, Negroes, &c.
FOR SALE.
PURSUANT to the last will and testament of Benjamin Toler, deceased, will be sold at public auction, at his late dwelling house, in Hanover county, on Thursday, the 19th day of May next, if fair, if not the next fair day, on 9 months credit, the purchaser giving bond with approved security, carrying interest from the date if not punctually paid.
About Ten Likely Negroes,
among them a valuable B. & Smith, Shoemaker, bricklayer, and Cooper.—At the same time and place, on six months credit, for all sums above twenty dollars, for bond and security as above, and cash for all sums of twenty dollars and under, will be sold his HOUSEHOLD and KITTE CHEN FURNITURE, among which is an excellent Eight-Day Clock, two copper stills of 120 gallons each, a Stud Horse, by Lamp-lighter, called Ready Rhino; a Wagon and Team, two riding and several other Horses and Mules, a single Gig and Harness.—And on Monday the 30th day of the same month, if fair, if not the next fair day, on the premises, will be sold, a valuable TRACT OF LAND, lying in the upper end of Hanover county, commonly called David Anderson's Store, containing 355 and a half acres, more or less, and immediate possession given, for which one third of the purchase money must be paid on the day of sale, and one and two years credit will be given for the balance, the purchaser giving a deed of trust on the premises, to secure the two last payments, with bonds and approved security, carrying interest from the date, if not punctually paid.—Bond Creditors will find it their interest to attend those sales, that some arrangements may be made for discharging their claims. Those having legal claims against the said estate, will please make them known, and those indebted will please make immediate payment, as no indulgence can be given.
MATHEW TOLER, Adm'or with the Will annexed, Hanover County, April 20, 1808.
LAND FOR SALE.—Pursuant to a deed of trust executed to the subscribers by John C. Miller, for the purpose of securing the payment of sundry debts therein mentioned, will be sold upon the first Monday in January 1808, for each upon the premises, a tract of land, mentioned in said deed lying upon the waters of Lochet's and Harris' creek, contain between six and seven hundred acres. Will make each title as is transferred to us by said Miller, saving all former encumbrances. The improvements upon this land are such as are usual upon any plantation in this part of the country, but better fenced than usual. Prinne Edward, Oct. 16, 1807.
CHARLES WOODSON, JAMES MADISON, Trustees.
* The above sale is postponed till Tuesday the 28th day of June next. April 20, 1808.