The enquirer (Richmond, Va.), 1805-01-25 00:00:00

THE ENQUIRER.
RICHMOND, (Virginia) PUBLISHED BY RITCHIE & WORSLEY, OPPOSITE THE POST-OFFICE...AT FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM...payable in advance.
NUMBER 80.]
FRIDAY MORNING, JANUARY 25, 1805.
[VOLUME 1.]
CONDITIONS.
 I. THE ENQUIRER will appear twice a week...During the session of Congress and the Virginia Legislature, either a third paper or a supplementary half-sheet, during the week.  II. Terms of payment FIVE DOLLARS per annum, in advance.  III. ADVERTISEMENTS, from those who do not subscribe to the paper, should not exceed a square in length, shall be inserted for seventy-five cents the first time, fifty cents for each time during three weeks, and for every additional insertion thirty-three cents; long ones in the same proportion.  IV. SUBSCRIBERS shall have their advertisements inserted for fifty cents the first time, and thirty-three cents for every additional insertion. 
Sales at Auction.
By Virtue of a Deed of Trust, executed to the subscribers by Mr. Bartlett Still, of the city of Richmond, for the purpose of securing the payment of his note to Messrs. Lemuel Wells, & Co. of New-York, for six thousand three hundred and twenty-two Dollars seventeen Cents, with interest at the rate of six per cent. per annum, from the 21st day of May last.
WILL BE SOLD, to raise the aforesaid sum and interest, together with the expenses attending the execution of said trust, for ready money, on the premises, on Saturday the 2nd day of February ensuing, between the hours of 11 and 1 o'clock, that LOT OF GROUND on the north side of the Main-street, next above the Bell Tavern, with the Brick-buildings thereon, at present in the occupancy of Messrs. St. John & Gwatney and John Richard, Esq. The buildings are inferior, and the title to the property is believed to be unexceptionable. A conveyance with special warranty will be made by the subscribers.
PROSSER & MONCURE, Trustees; V. M.'s. December 25.
Auction Sales.
THOMAS TAYLOR & Co. WILL in future sell at the store occupied by M. W. Hancock & Co. on Wednesdays in each week; and at their office, on Tuesdays and Fridays as usual. Dec. 1, 1804. epif
Acoustic Temple.
J. WOOD INFORMS the public of Richmond, that he has constructed an ACOUSTIC TEMPLE, similar to that lately exhibited in this city, originally invented by Le Brun of Paris; and that it will be exhibited on Tuesday next, at his house opposite to Mr. Copland's, Shockoe-Hill, from nine in the morning, until nine in the evening, for some time previous to the delivery of the intended Lecture on sound, in which the principles of that machine will be satisfactorily explained. The temple is in every respect the same as Le Brun's, with the exception of the Mirrors of Vision—and produces the like phenomena, both of breathing and sound.—The Mirrors would also have been added, could they have been procured in Richmond. Those who are inclined to see the Acoustic Temple separately or before the Lecture, pay one half dollar, and another half dollar if present at the Lecture. The admission to the Lecture, for those who have not previously visited the Temple, will be one dollar. January 18.
NOTICE.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of the late Mr. JOHN LESTER deceased, are requested to make payment to Mr. Sylvester Hovey, who is authorized to receive the same; and all those who have any demands against the said estate are desired to call on him for payment.
SARAH LESTER, Executrix. JOHN FOSTER, Executor. Richmond, 22d January, 1805.
THE public are respectfully informed, that the business of the Wharves, lumber, &c. will be carried on as usual, by their ob't. Servant, SARAH LESTER.
WHO HAS ON HAND FOR SALE, New-England Boards, 1/2 inch, 3/4 and 1 inch Pitch Pine Boards & Scantling, Cypress Shingles, Cedar posts, Providence Line unflashed, Double Geared Baltimore Wheat Fans, Wire Sifters for Meal, Oats, Wheat and Flaxseed, Rowling Screen Wire, Screen Wire for Fans, Shakes for Meal, Bright and Black Varnish, &c. &c. January 22d.—(cp 3w.)
TO BE SOLD,
On Wednesday, the 30th inst. before the door of Messrs. W. Hancock & Co:
A NEGRO WOMAN, belonging to the estate of Mrs. Jane Jones, dec'd.—She has been brought up to the house business. Terms of sale, ready money. The ADMINISTRATOR. Jan. 22.—epF2.
I intend to sell publicly at Hanover Court-House, on Wednesday the 27th of February next, on 12 months credit, of the estate of Paul Thilman dec'd. SIX NEGROES, to wit, one Man, 4 Women, one small Boy and a Child, in order to discharge the balance of a debt due to Anthony Walke's, exors. Six per centum interest from the day of sale, and security will be required. BENJAMIN POLLARD, Trustee of PAUL THILMAN, dec'd. January 22.—/4t.
RISH Linens and Sheetings, Superfine Cloths and Gaffes; India, Italian and French Silks; Do. Moll Moll Muslins; Do. do. do. Habets; Fancy Muslin, Vols and Shovels; Coloured Muslins; Cambric Dimities & Calicoes; Linen Caps and Veils; Do. Habits and Shovels; Do. Gowns and Mitts; Wash Leather and Kid Gloves. For Sale by BARTLETT STILL. January 18, 1805.
A GREAT BARGAIN
TO BE SOLD IN A TRACT OF LAND, LYING in the lower end of Louisa county, on the Main-Road leading from Louisa Court-house to Richmond; containing by a late survey, 388 acres. The land lies well, and is not inferior to any in the neighbourhood for the production of Corn, Wheat, Rye, or Tobacco, and is a fine healthy situation; it has a tolerable comfortable dwelling-house, a large barn, and a small orchard of apple and peach trees on it, which has never been known to fail bearing fruit, in no year since the trees have been large enough to bear: it is a good stand for a public house or store. I am willing to take negroes in payment, and if myself and the purchaser cannot agree in the price of the property, I am willing to refer it to disinterested men, & will abide by their judgement. An undoubted title and possession will be immediately given by the subscriber, who resides at James Burnley's fair at this time. JOHN BURNLEY. January 18.
FOUR DOLLARS REWARD.
STRAYED from the stable of the subscriber on the 14th instant, a dark bay HORSE, about 14 hands high, a long main and switch tail, any other marks he may have are not at present recollected.—Whoever will deliver him to me shall receive the above reward. ISAAC DELYON. January 22. 3c
NOTICE.
THOSE indebted to the late firm of Shanks & McRae, either by Bond or open account, are desired to make payment before 1st of March. All failing to comply, will find their accounts in the hands of an attorney. COLIN MACRAE. Manchester, January 15.—(2cvo.)
BILLS ON NEW-YORK,
At Ten to Sixty Days sight—FOR SALE BY M. W. HANCOCK & CO. Dec. 22. tf
BURR MILL STONES, OF ALL SIZES; and PLAISTER OF PARIS, of an excellent quality, FOR SALE, as usual, by WILLIAM DAVIDSON, near the Market. Dec. 4. [epif.]
FOR RENT:
THE Large White House at Rocketts, formerly occupied by Mr. William Fenwick, and afterwards by Mr. Braxton Craddock. For terms, apply to GALLEGO, RICHARD & CO. January 11. (tf)
FOR SALE,
FIVE Hhds. and 10 qr. cases of LONDON PARTICULAR TENERIFFE WINE of a superior quality, on a credit of 120 days—Negotiable notes. Enquire of THOMAS NORVELL. December 29. (tf)
JOHN SPINDLER,
RESPECTFULLY informs the Ladies and Gentlemen of Richmond, that he intends to teach DRAWING, PAINTING in Oil Colours and Encaustic, and would instruct 6 or 8 pupils in those branches, either by visiting on them, or at his house, opposite Thomas Wilson's Esq. back street. N.B. Signs, House, and Military Colours painted by J. S. Orders from the country punctually attended to. [etiam.]
Debate.
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES. MONDAY, January 7, 1805.
Debate on receding the District of Columbia.
In Committee of the whole—Mr. TENNEY in the chair. The following resolutions being read:
1. Resolved, That it is expedient for Congress to recede to the state of Virginia, the jurisdiction of that part of the territory of Columbia, which was ceded to the United States, by the said state of Virginia, by an act passed the third day of December, in the year one thousand seven hundred and eighty nine, intitled "An act for the cession of ten miles square, or any lesser quantity of territory within the state, to the United States in Congress assembled, for the permanent seat of the general government;"—Provided, The said state of Virginia shall consent and agree thereto."
2. Resolved, That it is expedient for Congress to recede to the state of Maryland, the jurisdiction of that part of the territory of Columbia, without the limits of the city of Washington, which was ceded to the United States by the said state of Maryland, by an act passed the 19th day of December, in the year 1791, intitled "An act concerning the territory of Columbia, and the city of Washington;"—Provided, The said state of Maryland, shall consent and agree thereto."
MR. STANFORD said it was his wish to make a few observations on the resolution now before the committee, for the retrocession of that part of the district of Columbia, which had been ceded to the United States by the state of Virginia, in support of the vote he should give, expecting that what was said on the first, would be generally applicable to the last resolution also. He begged leave, however, in the first place to suggest that place to suggest that in bringing forward the motion he had not had any the least intention to take any step that should go to a removal of the government. He trusted no gentleman of the committee would entertain such an opinion of his views. Had such been his intention he would have preferred a direct motion to that effect.
As then both the resolutions together made but a single object, that of receding back again to the respective states of Virginia and Maryland, all the district of Columbia, except the city of Washington, he should in the course of the discussion consider it more incumbent on those adverse to the measure to show the original wisdom, and utility of the provision in the constitution, than on its friends. It would be enough for them to show its present evil tendency, and that it was an encumbrance, no way necessary or useful to the general government. Upon a former occasion some question had arisen, and might yet lie in the way of some gentlemen, whether Congress, having once accepted the cessions of the states, had now the power of re-cession. On that head, he had not himself ever found reason to doubt. By the sec-
tion and 4th article of the constitution, "Congress has power to dispose of, and make all needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other property belonging to the United States"—and besides the 8th section of the 1st article, which assigns to Congress the "exclusive legislation over this district, in all cases whatsoever," does not appear to come short of such a power. Like authority is also given in the same paragraph of the constitution over all places purchased by the consent of the state, in which the same shall be, "for the erection of forts, magazines, arsenals, dock yards, and other needful buildings." Congress, thus possessing the right of disposal, had exercised that right by an act passed two sessions ago, authorizing the secretary of the navy to convey to the Salem turnpike and Chelsea bridge companies a part of the navy yard at Boston. With it, will any one pretend that jurisdiction did not also pass to the state of Massachusetts, whence it had been obtained? It certainly would by every fair and bona fide view of the circumstances. If, for instance, murder should be committed on that part of the turnpike, which was formerly a part of the navy yard, could it be contended that such murder was not punishable by the laws of Massachusetts? That the general government was the only competent authority to punish? He hoped otherwise. A like discretionary power of cession was also exercised, when Congress anticipated the ordinance, and transferred the jurisdiction to the people of the North Western Territory, which now forms the state of Ohio. It would be remembered, that at the time of the transfer, the United States held the exclusive jurisdiction of that territory.
But, Mr. Chairman, we have a case of recent date still more conclusive, as being more directly in point. The very term itself cede is used. In the 2d article of the late "articles of agreement and cession" with Georgia, after accepting the cession of Georgia, the United States go on to say, "and they cede to the state of Georgia whatever claim, right, or title they may have to the jurisdiction or soil of any lands, lying within the United States, and out of the proper boundaries of any other state, and situated south of the southern boundaries of the states of Tennessee, North-Carolina and South-Carolina, and east of the boundary line herein above described as the eastern boundary of the territory ceded by Georgia to the U. States." It is worthy of remark that Congress never even took exception to this act of cession, and interchange of cessions, as it respected the power of doing so—nor did the state of Georgia, though she had both a federal and state interest to serve upon the occasion, and had to pass a solemn act of ratification and acceptance of such cession from the United States; for it made a part of her compensation for the Mississippi territory. That act has moreover since extended her authority, and created a county in the very territory thus ceded. Other cases might be cited of a similar exercise of power on the part of the general government, but he must be allowed to consider the present as sufficiently conclusive & unanswerable.
As to the expediency of a retrocession, he did not know that much need be said. Every debate during the present session in relation to the affairs of the district was but an additional argument for the expediency as well as policy of the measure. Whole days had been lately taken up with local and unimportant matters, to the neglect of the greatest concerns of the nation. He did not think there could be found another district of country of the same extent, with the same variety, not to say contrariety of interests. There seemed indeed a perfect turf of contending interests not possible to reconcile, and as impossible to legislate for in peace. He would ask, did it accord with the genius of the general government to be thus occupied with this small portion of the country? Could it be supposed we should be able to get along with such an appendage? He thought not. With the exception of territorial jurisdiction, the powers of Congress were as they ought to be, not of a local but general nature, and yet with one local concern, or another, within this ten mile square, Congress had been harassed with petitions, counter-petitions and memorials, more than from one half of the states in the union besides. This fact would appear by a reference to the journals of the different sessions since the assumption of jurisdiction. But the time consumed in this way was not all; the existing government of the district formed an aggregate point of view. To this should be also added the expense of printing. Our journals are much enlarged, voluminous bills and other matters printed, which, no doubt, went far to swell the contingent expenses of the House; or of late to justly complained of as enormous.
But, said Mr. S. over and above the consideration, that the district of Columbia is no way necessary and every way expensive to the general government, in fact a kind of governmental nuisance that ought to be removed, there was another objection still more serious with him, the people of the district were the mere subjects in their condition. If they held rights they were not apparent to him in the constitution. He believed all they held were those of courtesy. In the constitution no immunity, no privilege, no political right had been, in so many words, reserved to them. They had been specifically given away, consigned to the ideal convenience of the general government without a single specific reservation. This was not the case as to the people of the states. If he were told the people were content, and did not with a change, that with him was a good reason why the motion should at once prevail. If twenty or twenty-five thousand people had already become willing subjects, without wishing any share, or control in their own affairs, such an example ought no longer to remain under our system of government, and he trusted would not. He concluded by expressing a hope that the resolutions might be adopted.
Mr. Dennis. Mr. Chairman, as a resolution, analogous in all its leading features to those now under consideration, was submitted to the consideration of a former Congress, by a gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Bacon) and as that resolution was put at rest by a very decisive majority, I had not expected that its ghost would have risen up at so early a day to haunt the people of Columbia, or to interrupt the deliberations of this body. That the gentleman who has offered these resolutions, has acted from the best lights of his own understanding, and has believed the object intended to be thereby effected, is both within the pale of our constitutional authority and politi-
cally expedient, it is not for me to question. To me, however, they appear unconstitutional and politically inexpedient, and I will moreover add, cruel, unjust, and tyrannical in their operation on the people of this district.
In order to ascertain the extent of our power on the subject, we must resort to the 8th section of the first article of the constitution. Here we find that, amongst other powers therein enumerated, it is declared as follows. "That Congress shall have the power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever, over such district (not exceeding ten miles square) as may, by cession of particular states and the acceptance of Congress, become the seat of the general government," &c. This clause contemplates first, a place to be acquired lying at the time within the jurisdiction of one of the states, but which was to be put out of their control and within the exclusive jurisdiction of the general government. This was to be done in order, that a permanent seat might be established, which should not be liable to be changed by legislative caprice, and in order that the jurisdiction over the place in which its operations were to be conducted, might be like the government itself, the property of the whole people of the union and free from the influence of any one of its component parts.
This appears to be as much a part of the constitution, that you should always have this federal district, as that there should be a legislative, executive and judiciary department. Finally, it points out the manner in which this district shall be acquired, and the agents who are to be instrumental in the acquisition. The convention, on behalf of the people of the United States, who are the principals, appoint Congress the attorney in fact to receive the conveyance, and constitute the legislatures of the states from whom the cession or conveyance is to be made similar agents to make it. The federal agents have performed their respective offices, the district has been acquired in conformity with the authority given, the right to the property vested in the American people, and the possession held by us, for their benefit, for whose use it was acquired. All the power which was given as to the acquisition of the territory has been exhausted, and no other power remains but that of exercising over it exclusive legislation. To explain and illustrate this subject to the most ordinary capacity, let me compare the transaction to a case in common life.—
If I give a man a power of attorney to purchase for me a tract of land, in a particular district of country of a specified quantity of acres, leaving it to him to make the location, and he accordingly make a purchase, and I consent to the act, receive the conveyance, and take possession of it, can my agent afterwards make another choice, divert me of my right, and reconvey the property without my consent? No man will answer this question affirmatively; and yet it is clear there is a perfect similitude between the cases, and that Congress are agents acting in this case under a limited authority and confined in the exercise thereof to a specific object. That Congress are special agents, and not vested with a general power over every possible case is manifest, from the whole tenour of the constitution; and I will lay down in this instance a rule which has been generally recognized as the standard, by which to test the extent of Congressional authority in any given case. It is that Congress can exercise no power on any subject but what is expressly delegated and specifically enumerated in the constitution, or necessarily and incidentally to the execution of the present instance. To accept a cession and exercise over it exclusive legislation. Can you infer from hence a power of re-cession? To do so is at war with the amendment of the constitution, which declares all powers not given to the general government, are retained by the states or the people respectively. Was not the power confined to the acceptance of the district directed to be procured for a specific purpose, and when so acquired, to continue an object over which Congress, as a permanent body, might always have in their power to exercise exclusive jurisdiction? Can you then claim the power of re-ceding the district and receiving one as often as your caprice may dictate, or of diverting your successors of the same control over this district which we may exercise ourselves? The power is not expressly delegated, nor is it a necessary power to carry into effect any power given; for it will not be contended, but we may exercise all our powers and perform all our duties, and still retain the jurisdiction over the district.
It has been said, that Congress and the legislatures of Maryland and Virginia being the parties to the contract, may like all other parties by mutual consent dissolve the obligation. The premises might be admitted, and the conclusion does not follow. For it is not always true, and never to where the rights of third persons are involved, that the original contracting parties can dissolve the contract. If I draw a bill of exchange, and the drawee endorse it to a third person, it is not in the power of the drawer and drawee to cancel the obligation. This case will apply as well to the people of the United States as to those of the district of Columbia, whose vested rights are mutually affected by the proposed resolution. But surely the premises are incorrect, and this is to be regarded as a contract of the American people, and not the contract of Congress, made with the people of the ceded territory, that if they would consent to give up their property, and the states in which they lived would make the cession, Congress should accept it, and exercise over them exclusive legislation.
Again, Sir, it is said that Congress are not imperatively commanded to exercise this power but have an option to exercise it or not at discretion. Be it so. But does this give the power to transfer its exercise to a foreign jurisdiction.
This district has been completely severed from Maryland and Virginia; and has been erected into two counties by the name of Washington and Alexandria, and forms, at this time, no more a part of the territorial limits of Maryland and Virginia, than of New-Hampshire or Georgia; and you may by the same authority that you propose to re-annex them to these states, unite them to Delaware or Jersey, and put the people, many of whom never were citizens of Maryland and Virginia, under the jurisdiction of the emperor of Hayti.
"Congress shall have the power to exercise exclusive legislation," &c.—What Congress? Is it the Congress of 1804—5; or 1820 or 1850?—if indeed the union so long endure. Surely, Sir, we can exercise no power which our suc-
cessors may not also exercise on an object declared by the constitution to be a subject of legislation for Congress; and if you should give up the exercise of the jurisdiction for the present and repeal the act of assumption, your successors may repeal the repealing act and resume the jurisdiction. Otherwise you may deprive your successors of all the powers of legislation. In the section in which the power of exercising exclusive legislation is given, is also contained, amongst other powers therein enumerated, the power "to coin money and regulate the value thereof," &c.—"the power of making a uniform system of bankruptcy," &c. These powers Congress may exercise or not; but can they vest in Maryland and Virginia or any other state, the power of legislating for the Union on these subjects and thereby deprive their successors of the exercise of these powers, should they hereafter deem it advisable to resume them? No Sir. Neither can we by any act of our own (nor can it be done in any way but by an amendment of the constitution) divest our successors of an ultimate control over this territory and of the right of resuming jurisdiction over it, which you in vain attempt to give away.
Then it may be problematical, at least whether the states of Maryland and Virginia, will consent to exercise powers, in consequence of this kind of legislative deputation, over a people, not within their territorial limits, and who form no more a portion of the citizens of those states than of any other section of the Union? Why should they expend their time and money, and encounter those difficulties as viceroys and mercuries at will, which you are afraid to encounter yourselves? You might as well vest in Maryland and Virginia the exclusive right of legislating for Louisiana.
But, Mr. Chairman, I should be glad if the gentleman who proposed the resolutions, and who by the term re-cession and lone kind of magical operation, is to produce a re-annexation of this district to the states from which it has been severed, would inform me precisely what he understands by the term, and what is to be the result of the measure on the rights of the people of the district. I presume, however, he expects, by the adoption of these resolutions to reinstate them in all their former rights. Will this be thereby affected? Having been cut off completely by the constitution the acts of cession on the part of the states, and by the acts of acceptance in 1790, from their parent states, they will be in the same situation as a purchased or conquered people, and entitled to no other rights and privileges but such as their new masters may think proper to concede. They were, before you separated them from their parent states, a part of the sovereignty of those states and their rights secured to them by their respective constitutions.
But it will be said, you may annex a condition to the retrocession compelling Maryland and Virginia to reincorporate them into their respective political systems, with all the immunities and privileges they formerly enjoyed. Even they are dependent for their rights, not on the constitution of those states respectively, but on compact and legislative promises. But you have already made one legislative promise, which you are about to violate, and where is the security that the legislative promise now to be made will not be violated again, especially as the very act which makes the new one violates a former one, accompanied with greater solemnity. Sir, we have had some experience as to the difference between a people who have their rights secured by a constitution, and one who depends for that security, on compact, in the people of Louisiana. By the treaty they were to be incorporated into the Union with all the rights, immunities and privileges of American citizens. We know the latitude of discretion and the various constructions which have prevailed, to deprive these people of the rights stipulated by the treaty. Suppose the states to whom you propose the retrocession to be made should assume a similar latitude, to whom are these people to apply for redress? They must invoke the aid of Congress, instead of appealing as before to the constitution of the states as the guarantee of their rights.
But, Mr. Chairman, are the people of the territory unworthy of a moment's consideration, and will their remonstrances against the measure be altogether disregarded? Let us take a retrospective view of the circumstances under which they were seduced from their parent states, and the manner in which they consented to differ the civil and political bonds by which they were formerly connected: what induced them to alienate their native allegiance, and with a generous confidence to submit themselves to your authority. First, the constitution on held but the pledge and formed the basis of the contract, involving a promise, that if the people of the district of country, which should be fixed upon for the seat of government, would give up the rights possessed under the government of the states to which they belonged, they should moreover remain under the exclusive jurisdiction of Congress. By the act of Congress accepting the cession, the territory received, is declared to be the place fixed on for the permanent seat of government, and the states cede for ever the jurisdiction of the persons and full within the time to Congress, for the purpose of exercising therein exclusive legislation. Finally you assume the government, establish your own system, and annul those of the states. Confiding in these promises, they gave up the control of their persons, and some of them divided with you their property. They came to you with one consent, and hailed your arrival here as the most fortunate epoch in the annals of their country—and now, will you let them adrift without deigning to listen to their prayers?
But all this is to be done to restore them to their lost liberty; to emancipate them from the shackles of despotism with which they are encumbered, and to elevate them from their degraded condition to the rank of freemen. These are very pretty theories, but like many other theories on the subject of the abstract rights of man, when pushed to their extent and every thing made to bend to them in order to give them complete effect, are found to be in their practical operation oppressive and unjust. I deny, Sir, that the people of this district are in that deplorable state of slavery which some theorists imagine. They are entitled to, and are in the enjoyment of all the rights secured to the people of this country by the various restrictions on the powers of their governors. No man in this territory can be deprived of life, liberty or property, but through the medium of the judiciary department, operating in the same way and under the same circumstances as in eve.

other part of the Union. The clause relative to the independency of the judicial power, applies itself to the courts here as well as to any other court of the Union. But it should not be so considered, since the new doctrine has been established, that the tenure of good behaviour in your judges is no bar to the omnipotency of the legislative power, the people here in their respect have the same security for the independency of their judges, as their fellow citizens in other parts of the Union. The principle difference between the people of this district and of the different states, is that they have no immediate and actual representation; but notwithstanding the importance of the right of representation, to a people generally speaking, and however correct may be the general principle, that a people cannot enjoy perfect freedom without it, yet in a place situated as is this district, there is more of theory than of fact, in the assertion that the people who are without it, are in a state of civil and political despotism.
This being the seat of government where all the representatives of the nation are collected, and who from the responsibility which they owe to their respective constituents and to the whole people of the United States, are under every moral and political tie to do justice, and to protect the rights and interests of the people here. Here every citizen of the district has access to every member, and he may personally communicate his wants, his wishes, and solicit his particular patronage; his interest; and instead of being confined like a district of country in the remote parts of the Union to a single member who may not possess the talents to explain its interests to the legislative body, the citizens of this place may make application out of the whole, of the member or members to whom he may choose to confide his application. Like the seat of government in all other places, without having any actual representation, this district will have more than an equal share of influence, and its weight will always be felt more sensibly in the legislative councils of the nation, than the remote parts of the union. Our theoretical philosophers, however, not only contend that in order to make these people free and happy, we must force liberty upon them whether they will have it or not, and that even with respect to the convenience or inconvenience of being governed by this body and the states of Maryland and Virginia, they are incapable of judging for themselves.
But is there no convenience resulting to them from having all their concerns bro't within the narrow limits of 10 miles square? Is there no convenience in having their own courts of justice at their very doors, instead of travelling to Richmond and Annapolis? It is an old fashioned idea perhaps, but it is one which very generally prevails, even at the present day, that to bring justice home to every man's door, is a great political and civil blessing; and in this respect the people of this place enjoy an advantage, which is unknown to any other people in the world.
The great advantages contemplated as likely to result from being represented in the legislature of Maryland and Virginia, and the powers of self-government which it is supposed may result from the measure, is merely ideal. What weight will the district on the Virginia side of the Potomac, have, in the large body of the legislature of that state; when they will only form a part of the county of Fairfax, and have there in choosing two members to the assembly? The same question might be asked in relation to the district of country formerly comprehended within the counties of Prince George and Montgomery, in Maryland: They would be regarded with a jealous eye, a sort of aliens, who were forced contrary to their remonstrances, to submit to their respective jurisdictions.
But the trouble of governing these people is urged as a serious objection—we certainly have had sundry applications and some legislation has been necessary to accommodate our laws and political systems to this new situation—But this has been in a great degree already accomplished; and I believe little more is now necessary to be done: And with respect to the imaginary wants which have sometimes constituted the basis of troublesome applications, it is believed there is now prevailing a very general disposition to suppress them in future. This resolution however proposes to retain the city and the same objection applies and nearly to the same extent, to its government, as to the whole. The laws of this territory have been enacted; its systems established, and the officers appointed with reference to the whole; and it will require nearly as much legislation to accommodate your laws to the city alone, as will probably be requisite if the whole be retained. Lastly, I have another objection to these resolutions. Because they go to dismember the plan of the territory which was the favorite child of that illustrious man who may justly be denominated the political father of his country. This great and patriotic statesman whose energetic and comprehensive mind viewed things on a grand, liberal, national scale, fore saw the necessity of bringing nearer together the atlantic and western divisions of his country. He considered this place from the contiguity of its position to the western waters, destined to occupy, at some future day that situation which would render it the great market of western supplies, and which would stand at one end of a great national turnpike connecting the western and Atlantic frontiers.
He knew full well the local jealousies which will forever exist and which we know to exist, between places situated like George-town, Washington and Alexandria. He fore saw that these local jealousies, if properly restrained, would by the action and reaction which they would produce, operate as a general stimulus to the whole, and thereby become rather an advantage than otherwise to the general prosperity; but by gradual approximation these places would be bro't together and form one great whole. This could only be effected by making the general government the common centre around which these rival towns revolving in their respective orbits, would revolve free from collision. But put them under three different and hostile jurisdictions, three different centres of attraction would be formed; and in revolving around which these hostile bodies might meet each other and mutual injury ensue. He knew that by restricting the inspection of the produce defending the Potomac and coming from the west side of the river to Alexandria, Virginia might force all her produce by the city of Washington—And that by a similar operation on the part of Maryland, all her exports might be stopped at George-town—That the destruction of the city and of all her prospects would be the consequence; and therefore the wisdom of the plan as originally adopted, and to support which, free from dismemberment, under whatever pretext, I shall always contend my exertions. To discourage local jealousy I have always thought desirable when likely to be carried to a pernicious extent, and have always determined to leave each place to the enjoyment of its own natural advantages. I beg leave to conclude by remarking upon one or two observations of the gentleman from North Carolina, on the constitutional question. He has produced some legislative precedents respecting the transfer of many-laws, arsenals, &c. If these precedents were in point, having passed jus plenis they ought to have no obligatory force. But I am not aware that Congress has ever done any thing in this respect but to give the right of soil in places acquired for such purposes, and it still remains a question if they do not retain the jurisdiction if they chose to exercise it. That gentleman seems to make no distinction between the right of soil and power of legislation over it, though the one may be in one body and the other in another. I do not say but you may sell all the lots in the city of Washington either to individuals, states or other bodies politic, but I do deny that you can sell your right of governing it.
The next proceeding added was the case of the compact with Georgia, and by which we acquired an extensive territory. Perhaps this may be considered as
giving up of the treaty-making power, and it is not denied that the government may acquire territory and jurisdiction over it, through the medium of the treaty-making power.
I trust, Mr. Chairman, I have shown when I intended in the outset of my remarks to establish, that Congress are not competent to effectuate the object of the resolution; that if they could do it, it is not demanded by the general interest, and that it would be unjust and tyrannical as it relates to the people here to make the contemplated transfer.
Mr. White observed the committee was now considering the resolutions of reception generally, previous to giving a separate opinion on the two resolutions before them—Under this impression he would make one cautionary observation—He knew that it always had been on all occasions the practice of the House opposed to the reception, to connect that question with another subject, wholly and totally distinct; that was the removal of the seat of government from this place—If it was possible to separate these two things in the minds of some of the members of the present House, he was persuaded they would find no difficulty in restoring the inhabitants of this district to their natural, their political and civil rights; a thing so desirable in a government founded as the government of the Union was founded, and as almost every citizen of the Union contended for, the sovereignty of the people.
For his part, he never did, nor ever should, connect these two ideas. Advocate, as he was, for reception, he had no idea of removal. He would go further, and declare it as his opinion, that Congress could not remove the seat of government honorably, nor of right, and he trusted Congress would never hereafter feel power, forget right.
Having made this observation, he would briefly enquire whether the arguments of the gentleman from Maryland, (Mr. Dennis ) were well founded—If it is correct in stating that, under the constitution, the Congress have no right to legislate on the present subject, there was an end of the business. If he thought, with that gentleman, he would be the last man to vote for the reception; but as he thought differently, he would assign the reasons upon which his opinion was founded.
The gentleman read a part of that section of the constitution, which granted certain specified powers to the Congress of the United States—He wished he had read the whole, and shown that there was a particular restriction placed on this particular power.
For his part, he conceived this to be a general grant of power under no restriction. In the several grants of power under the 8th section of the 1st article, there were three out of the eighteen that were grants with particular restrictions. All the rest were complete and full grants of power, and the eighteenth grant had relation to them without limitation; of course they had complete legislative control over the seventeenth, respecting the exercise of exclusive legislation over the district of Columbia.
He here read over the whole of the 8th section of the 1st article, observing upon each.
That Congress shall have power, 1. To lay & collect taxes, &c. but all duties &c. shall be uniform throughout the United States—Here is a restriction—Congress have power to lay duties, but they cannot lay them, unless they shall be uniform throughout the United States. So of imposts, and so of excises.
To raise and support armies—But no appropriation of money for that use shall be longer than for two years—Here, although Congress may raise and support armies, they cannot order any money to be applied to that use for more than two years, however desirable or convenient a longer appropriation might appear to them to be.
Respecting the militia, they may provide for organizing, arming and disciplining and governing the militia. But they can neither officer nor train them; that is a restriction, and the latter powers are reserved to the states.
The other powers, such as to borrow money, to regulate commerce, to establish an uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform laws of bankruptcy, to coin money, to fix the standards of weights and measures, to punish counterfeiting the securities and coins of the United States, to establish post offices and post roads—To promote the progress of science and the useful arts in a prescribed mode; and this also may be considered as a restriction upon their general power, as they cannot give to science and the useful arts any other encouragement than by securing for limited times to authors and inventors the exclusive right to their writings and discoveries.
They have also complete and exclusive powers to constitute tribunals inferior to the supreme court; to define and punish piracies and felonies committed on the high seas, and offences against the law of nations; to declare war and enter subsequent powers; to provide and maintain a navy; to make rules for the government and regulation of the land and navy forces; to provide for calling forth the militia of the Union for special purposes only; perhaps this also may be considered as a restriction on the general power to call forth the militia.
And then they have the power given by the seventeenth grant, viz. to exercise exclusive legislation, &c. to the end of the paragraph; and to the whole is added, the sweeping clause, as it used to be called, which was formerly urged to give unlimited power to the general government. That Congress have power to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this constitution in the government of the United States, or any department or officer thereof.
What, asked, was the conclusion to be drawn from this view of the constitution? Surely and fairly this: that Congress may of right exercise all the powers which are not expressly under their found declaration, to promote the general welfare. It is clear that Congress may assume the exclusive legislation of this district, or they may not. If, however, they do assume it, they have equal power to receive Congress in the exercise of its legitimate and constitutional power passed a bankrupt law, and a naturalization law; on experience they were dissatisfied with their effect, and they repealed them. Was it ever imputed to Congress as a violation of the constitution? No: there being no restriction, they felt themselves either free to act or free to refrain, as circumstances rendered the one or the other expedient.
(To be continued.)
Register, OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES.
WEDNESDAY, January 16. A message from the Senate, by Mr. Oris, their Secretary, informing that the Vice-President of the United States and President of the Senate, had obtained leave of absence, and that the Senate having proceeded to the choice of a President pro tempore, had elected Mr. Anderson, of Tennessee.
Mr. Speaker laid before the House the report of the Secretary at War, on the petition of the military officers stationed at New-Orleans, which was referred to a select committee of five.
Also the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, on the petition of Fontaine Maury, praying a drawback on certain coffee transported coastwise—Referred to the committee of commerce and manufactures.
A petition from captain John Badger, of the revolutionary army, who was disabled in the service by very severe wounds, praying relief, was read and referred to the committee of claims.
On motion of Mr. Leib, the House, according to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill to amend the charter of George Town.
Mr. Graves in the chair. After going through the same, and making several verbal alterations, the committee rose, and reported the bill with amendments, which were agreed to by the House.
General Varnum moved to give the mayor of George Town a qualified veto upon the laws passed by the aldermen and common council.
On the question to agree to the same, the House divided, and there appeared 39 in its favor, and 40 against it.
The Speaker declared that it was not agreed to. Mr. Smith said he had risen in favor of the motion, but he believed he had not been counted as the Speaker had passed his seat before he rose.
The question was hereupon put a second time, and there were 44 in favor of the amendment, and 52 against it—So that the amendment was agreed to.
The next question was on ordering the bill to be engrossed for a third reading. The House divided, and there were for the motion 57, against it 13. Not being a quorum, the members were called upon to divide a second time, and there appearing 63 in favor of ordering the bill to be engrossed, it was carried in the affirmative.
A message was received from the Senate by Mr. Oris, their Secretary, informing that the Senate had passed the bill received from this House, authorizing the corporation of George Town to erect a dam or causeway from Mason's Island to the West side of the Potomac.
On motion of Mr. J. Randolph, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, on the bill making appropriation for the support of government for the year 1805.
Mr. Dawson in the chair. The various blanks being filled up, the committee rose and reported the same, which being agreed to by the House, the bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading for Friday next. Adjourned.
THURSDAY, January 17. Mr. J. Randolph laid the committee of Ways and Means had received a letter from the Secretary last evening, by which it appeared to be necessary to add an additional item to the appropriation bill, and to make a small alteration in an item already agreed to. The letter was read by the clerk, and on motion of Mr. J. R. the bill was recommitted to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Dawson in the chair. After some time spent in considering the same, and making the requisite amendments, the committee rose and reported; the House thereupon proceeded to consider the motion, and having concurred in the amendments reported by the committee of the whole, the bill was ordered to be engrossed and read a third time to-morrow.
Mr. Dawson presented a petition from a number of the inhabitants of Detroit and its vicinity, praying an alteration in the law for the disposal of the public lands of the United States. Referred to the committee appointed on the seventh of January inst. on the same subject.
Mr. Clairborne moved the order of the day for the House to resolve itself into a committee of the whole, on the bill making further provision for the extinguishment of the debts still due from the United States.
Mr. Varnum in the chair. This bill goes generally to make provision for the payment of certain debts liquidated at the Treasury.
A new section was proposed by Mr. Clairborne , making similar provision for all unliquidated debts due for services rendered or supplies furnished during our revolutionary war.
A debate of considerable length and interest grew out of the question for adding it to the bill.
On motion the committee divided and 78 members voting in favor of inserting it in the bill, it was carried. A motion for striking out the last section, limiting the duration of the bill to years was made by Mr. Mason , (Speaker); another debate of some length took place, and when the committee divided there were 48 in favour of striking out, and 58 against it—so it was determined in the negative.
Mr. Elmer proposed a new section embracing the cases of Mellis, Bowers, Moore, and Elmer , officers of artillery, but who were not attached to the line of any battery, providing for an allowance of the depreciation of their pay, which they did not obtain under the resolution of the old Congress, in consequence of having resigned a few days previous to its taking effect.
This motion did not succeed, only 18 members voting in its favor.
Mr. Thomas proposed a new section enacting that the claim of the United States against individual states for balances which occurred previous to the year 1790, should continue to exist till the day of the next census.
This motion was also lost, only 20 rising in its favor.
The last section limiting the duration of the law for years being under consideration, it was proposed to fill up the blank with 2, 3, and 20. This question was taken on the highest number, viz. 20, and lost only 27 members voting in its favor.
On filling it with 3 years the House divided, and were 51 in the affirmative and 42 in the negative, so it was carried.
The committee then rose and reported the bill and its amendments, and the House proceeded to consider the same.
A considerable debate took place on concurring in the amendment proposed by Mr. Clairborne , extending the law to unliquidated claims, and upon the question of concurring the House divided, and were for it 54—against it 56—So the amendment was not agreed to.
Several verbal amendments were afterwards agreed to, and the bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading to-morrow.
On motion of Mr. Thomas , Mr. Verplanck , of New-York obtained leave of absence from Monday next to the end of the session. Adjourned.
Domestic Intelligence.
NEW YORK, Jan. 19.
By letters from Paschal , we are informed that Mrs. Turgeon and suite have taken passage on board the Spanish ship Santa Maria , captain Silva , bound to Charleston . Mrs. Turgeon has been induced to quit the Shepherdstown on account of the probable detention of that ship, occasioned by the repairs she wanted before she could proceed on her voyage.
Extract of a letter from our correspondent at Washington, dated January 9.
"I have recently received a letter from a friend who accompanied our fleet to the Mediterranean, written at Malta , under date of 30th September ult. I will extract a part of it for your use. If you have become possessed of the same or nearly the same information before you receive this, which I think probable, you will give me credit for good intentions, and the account between us will be settled."
"The following extracts will perhaps, be acceptable."
"Commodore Barron's squadron arrived here on the 5th and fell in with commodore Poeble , off Tripoli , on the 9th inst. The enterprise of this judicious and gallant commander has effected almost instant success. You will undoubtedly have the facts in detail before the public. With the small force under his command, he has stamped an impression on the Barbary mind, which will not be erased this generation, and has restored the character of our arms to its proper value among the neighbouring nations. As evidence of this conclusion, I extract the following paragraph from a letter addressed to the commodore, by a distinguished commander in the British navy, whose abilities and valor have raised him to high rank, great eminence, and to the government of the most important post in this sea."
"I beg leave to repeat my congratulations on the services you have rendered your country, and the breadth of scope you have had, in setting to distinguished an example to your countrymen, whose bravery and enterprise cannot fail to mark the character of a great and rising nation, in a manner that will ultimately be attended with the best and most important consequences to your country."
"If I were to offer my humble opinion, it would be, that you have done well in not purchasing a peace with money. A few brave men have been sacrificed, but they could not have fallen in a better cause—and I even conceive it better to risk more lives,
than to submit to terms which might encourage the Barbary states to fresh demands and insults."
"Thus much from the letter of the British commander (probably Sir Alexander Ball ) to commodore P. on which my friend observes, 'This encomium has the more weight, as it comes from a quarter too dependent to use adulation, and very capable of judging of the most brilliant actions.'"
"My friend then adds— "The pope of Rome expresses himself thus on the subject— "The American commander, with a small force, and in a short space of time, has done more for the cause of Christianity , than the most powerful nations of Christendom have done for ages." Ev. P.
NEW-JERSEY.
INTERNAL NAVIGATION.
KINGSTON, Dec. 29, 1804.
A majority of the gentlemen, named by the Legislature, to provide for organizing, and putting into operation the "New Jersey Navigation Company," for opening a water communication between the tide waters of the Raritan and the Delaware , met at this place yesterday. After considering the exigencies of the necessary expense and allowing liberally for the accidents and contingencies incident to novel undertakings; they agreed that the capital stock of the company should consist of four thousand shares of twenty-five dollars each—appointed Markell Ewing of Trenton , John N. Simpson of Princeton , George McDonald of Middle Brook , and John Bray of New Brunswick , to keep open subscription books, for signatures, until the 15th of April next, unless the whole number of shares should be sooner subscribed, and to receive the first payment thereon, of two dollars on each share. They also appointed the meeting of stockholders for choosing directors, to be held at this place, on the third Wednesday in May next, & agreed that the one vote for each share they respectively hold. Ample security is to be given by each of the persons appointed to hold subscription books, which are recommended to be opened also at Philadelphia , New York and Milstone .
By order, LOUIS GASSAWAY , clerk. The copy from the original, G. HOWARD , clerk.
A letter from Washington , says the Chronicle , contains the following information:
"Official intelligence is received here, that the fleet fitting out in Spain , and destined for Florida , has been dismantled: and that the Convention has been ratified: by which our merchants will receive indemnity in all those cases, which were not excluded by the former administration."
FREDERICKSBURG, January 17.
Yesterday the Directors of the Branch Bank of Virginia , for this town, met and made the following appointments.
David C. Kerr , President. Dabney Herndon , Teller. Samuel Howison , Book-keeper. William Allen , Discount clerk. John B. Berson , Runner. William Ridley , Porter. Express.
NORFOLK, January 16.
The British frigate Cambrian , Capt. Beresford , failed from the Roads yesterday. We understand La Revolutionnaire will sail in a few days. Ledger.
January 18.
La Revolutionnaire failed from the Roads on Tuesday evening, for New-York . The Cambrian , we understand, is gone to cruise off Havanna for Spaniards . Ib.
January 19.
It is with sincere regret we state that the privateer, mentioned in our last as having been left engaged with the Ardent ; has succeeded in capturing several of the homeward bound fleet of merchantmen from St. Domingo for Baltimore .—Our informant is a sailor who was landed on Wednesday, from on board the privateer, at Cape Henry . He states that he was on board the Schooner Anna-Maria , Bryant , of Baltimore , which was among the vessels taken. The Ardent succeeded in beating off the privateer, who mistaking her guns (32lb. carronades) for wooden ones, ran close along-side and fired into her, but received immediately a discharge of grape and langrage, which killed a great number of her men. After maintaining a short action she heered off, and went in chase of the other vessels. She was afterwards beat off by the Lioness and Felicity . He says that she made eight or ten prizes; of which he recollects the names of only the brigs  Hunter , captain Williams , and Philip , capt. Buffington . The ship Ardent he thinks either has foundered or will founder. She was extremely crazy and deeply laden; and must have been much injured in the action, if not by the fire of the privateer, by the weight of her own metal—she was very leaky when she failed.
The privateer is not a Schooner, but a brig, called Le Bonaparte , belonging to Point-Petre , Gaudaloupe , mounting eighteen guns, and had three hundred men on board when she attacked the fleet. She was chased by the Cambrian frigate on Tuesday, but ran her out of light in a few hours. She is now off the Capes , cruising for the remainder of the fleet, and for vessels bound outward for St. Domingo . Ib.
[There are many circumstances which induce us to doubt the veracity of the above.] (Herald.)
MARYLAND.
REPORT
Of the committee of the house of delegates of this state, to whom were referred the resolutions of the legislature of Massachusetts, proposing an amendment to the constitution of the United States.
Mr. Montgomery , from the committee, delivered to the speaker the following report—
THE committee to whom were referred the communications of the governor of Massachusetts , enclosing resolutions, purporting to be the "Doings of the legislature of that commonwealth," and proposing an amendment to the constitution of the United States, report, That they have given the same that serious and deliberate consideration, which a measure of such magnitude, contemplating such an important innovation upon the principles of the constitution, is entitled to, and are of opinion that it would be unwise, dangerous and impolitic, in the state of Maryland , to concur in the adoption of the same. The state of Maryland , from the principle that representation is apportioned among the several states according to numbers, in the manner in the said constitution provided has its full weight of representation in the councils of the union; and it would be unwise to diminish, or to relinquish it; neither ought it to be matter of clamour or complaint with any of the states not enjoying the compound ratio of representation, because the states which participate in the advantages resulting from this principle, are subjected to additional taxation, as taxation is apportioned among the several states according to representation; and there is less cause for this uneasiness, when it cannot be contested, that the states who do not partake of this benefit, have others to counterbalance it; besides the principle of representation is fixed in the constitution, being avowedly the result of a spirit of compromise and mutual concession among the several states at the time of its formation and adoption, and there being other great and important and prominent features of the constitution ingrafted into it, and dependant upon the same conciliating spirit of compromise and mutual concession, it would be dangerous by adopting the amendment proposed, to shake those great and fundamental articles of the federal compact, and by fashioning a measure that should be fraught with this destructive and disorganizing tendency, loosen the ties by which the states are now happily confederated, disintegrate the feeds of disunion, and finally eventuate in anarchy; a state of things to which every reflecting mind must look forward with terror and abhorrence. Emphatically has it been offered to the forefathers contemplation of the people of America, by the exalted patriot and able statesman, our beloved Washington , that "towards the preservation of their government, and the permanency of their present happy state, it is necessary that they not only discountenance irregular opposition to its acknowledged authority, but also that they resist with care, the spirit of innovation upon its principles, however specious the pretext:—"One method of assault, he proceeds, "may be to effect in the form of the constitution, alterations which will impair the energy of the system, and thus undermine what cannot be directly overthrown." Thus warned from such exalted authority, it behoves the people of the United States to touch, with great caution, the principles of the great charter upon which rest so eminently the general welfare! At this crisis, when a fair, full and forceful experiment of the wise, energetic and salutary principles and provisions of our constitution has been made, and its wisdom undeniably established, when the administration of this constitution is so ably conducted in its several departments, and tranquility, safety and happiness, thereby diffused throughout the union, equal
rights protected, and the interests of the whole eminently promoted and preserved, it would be highly impolitic to hazard the general harmony, by giving a constitutional sanction to a measure, which we consider, can be productive of no possible general good, but may tend in its immediate effects, to unhinge the leading principles upon which some of the most valuable and natural provisions of the constitution are founded, and thereby introduce material discord, and a subversion of all government; the proposed amendment, therefore, being, in the opinion of the committee, unwise, unsafe and impolitic, and as they are friends to the confederation, and hostile to any measures which have a tendency to endanger the union, they submit the following resolutions:
Resolved, That in the opinion of the legislature of Maryland , the amendment to the constitution of the United States, proposed by the legislature of the commonwealth of Massachusetts , ought not to be adopted.
Resolved, That the governor of this state be, and is hereby requested to transmit an official copy of the foregoing resolution to the governor of the commonwealth of Massachusetts .
By order, LOUIS GASSAWAY , clerk. The copy from the original, G. HOWARD , clerk.
A letter from Washington , says the Chronicle , contains the following information:
"Official intelligence is received here, that the fleet fitting out in Spain , and destined for Florida , has been dismantled: and that the Convention has been ratified: by which our merchants will receive indemnity in all those cases, which were not excluded by the former administration."
FREDERICKSBURG, January 17.
Yesterday the Directors of the Branch Bank of Virginia , for this town, met and made the following appointments.
David C. Kerr , President. Dabney Herndon , Teller. Samuel Howison , Book-keeper. William Allen , Discount clerk. John B. Berson , Runner. William Ridley , Porter. Express.
NORFOLK, January 16.
The British frigate Cambrian , Capt. Beresford , failed from the Roads yesterday. We understand La Revolutionnaire will sail in a few days. Ledger.
January 18.
La Revolutionnaire failed from the Roads on Tuesday evening, for New-York . The Cambrian , we understand, is gone to cruise off Havanna for Spaniards . Ib.
January 19.
&lt;

DIVISION OF COUNTIES.
Why has the state of Virginia been divided into Counties? To this question, two different answers may be assigned. The politician would desire to you the use of this arrangement, in our system of representation. The lawyer will expatiate upon its benefits in the administration of justice.
In proportion to the increase of our population however, any given division of Counties is likely to produce new inconveniences and embarrassments in the attainment of both these objects.
It is very evident, that these embarrassments could not possibly exist, if the state of Virginia possessed a limited proportion of territory and population.
The federal constitution, which prescribes certain bounds to the power of the states, does not contain a single clause, which circumscriptes their white population.
There is no reason to believe, that this necessity does at present, or that it will soon, exist. The greatest evils which our extended population produces, must obviously arise from the great multiplication of counties.
Should the multiplication of counties however appear incompatible with the sound policy, which may not be arranged to be adopted, for removing the political inconveniences of an extended population?
As to the first argument, it was not peculiarly applicable to Amherst. There was scarcely a county in the state, which had not made the same complaint. In almost all of them, our laws were so badly executed, as frequently to produce a delay of justice equivalent to a denial of it.
As to the difference among the people themselves, and that the majority of the collective votes might then determine the fate of the election for the whole county?
The greatest exertion, which has been made on this subject during the present session was made to divide the county of Amherst.
Mr. Cabell expatiated upon the inconveniences of the present organization of the county, and upon the advantages of a division.
There was another evil of considerable importance, which arose out of the present situation of the county. The most violent schisms existed among the inhabitants.
Mr. C. hoped that any additional expenses, which may accrue to the state by this measure would not over balance its advantages.
His own county experienced certain inconveniences, which were unknown to some others.
He would appeal to a very striking fact, to show the disadvantages arising from such an imperfect administration of justice.
Mr. Garland concluded with observing, that he very well knew the expense of erecting new public buildings would not be trivial; but this additional expense, the county was willing to sustain.
Mr. Aylett (from King William) said that three reasons had been given for the division of Amherst: the delay in the administration of justice; the differences among the inhabitants themselves; and the greatness of their revenue.
As to the first argument, it was not peculiarly applicable to Amherst. There was scarcely a county in the state, which had not made the same complaint.
As to the difference among the people themselves, and that the majority of the collective votes might then determine the fate of the election for the whole county?
As to the difference among the people themselves, and that the majority of the collective votes might then determine the fate of the election for the whole county?
Mr. Aylett declared he was happy to have an opportunity of giving his present vote against the division of this county.
On taking the vote, the bill for dividing the county was lost: Ayes 70.—Nays 80.
COMMUNICATION.
THE coldness of the present season, has seldom been exceeded in this degree of latitude.
But they have forgotten all this for a moment only. They will see at once that destitution & wretchedness, which have hitherto escaped their notice, and they will immediately unite for the relief of their poor and suffering creatures.
The worthy writer of the preceding communication, is respectfully informed, that an attempt will be made on Sunday next, to relieve some of the evils, of which he so justly regrets.
ABSTRACT OF PRISONERS RECEIVED INTO THE JAIL AND PENITENTIARY HOUSE.
Table with 2 columns: Date/Term, Number. Rows include Spring Term, Fall ditto, Discharged, Escaped, Died, and a Total row.
Table with 2 columns: CRIMES, Number. Rows include Murder in 2d deg., Grand Larceny, Forgery, Burglary, Horse Stealing, Man-Slaughter, Rape, Highway Robbery, Interuption, Felony, Stabbing, and a Total row.
Table with 2 columns: Number of Prisoners employed as follows, Number. Rows include Making Nails, Heading ditto, Cutting ditto, Ditto, Brads, Blacksmiths' making Spikes, Tools, &c., Making Shoes, Binding ditto, Cutting ditto, Coopering, Grinding Tools, Ta'oring, Making Shirts, Winding Thread, Attending in the Yard and performing incidental bus., and a Total row.
MARRIED—by the Rev. James Tompkins, on Thursday the 10th inst. William Callahan, jun. of Bedford county, to the amiable Miss Elizabeth Callahan, second daughter of Samuel Callahan, Esq. of Pittsylvania county.
No Northern Mail on Tuesday, Wednesday nor last evening at 9 o'clock.
IN consequence of imperfections on the City of Richmond, NICOLSON & HETTER, during the ICE, gave each a sonnet a note of his load and prices, from Manchester—This cannot be practised from the Deep Run Pitts.
NOTICE.
THE Members of the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings of the State of Virginia, are hereby requested to attend their general meeting, to be held by adjournment, on Friday the 29th January, 1802, by 10 o'clock, in the Committee Room, in the 4th corner of the Capitol.
To you gentlemen, is first committed the important trust of giving such laws to this flourishing district, as local wants shall suggest, and the interest of the citizens may require.
The territory of Orleans, in some points may be considered a new territory; but for the most part, as one more than matured—Much is to be created, but more regenerated.
The first object of your attention, I trust, will be to provide a system of jurisprudence fitted to the interest, and as much as possible, adapted to the habits of the citizens.
On this subject, the act of Congress, under which your powers are derived, has marked the outlines of your duty.
A system of criminal jurisprudence is also matter for your consideration.
The establishment of inferior courts of limited jurisdiction throughout the territory, and the powers and duties thereof will necessarily engage your attention.
As another object of Legislative care, I must request your attention to the interest, convenience and comfort of this city.
New-Orleans is moreover, the only city or town in this territory; the only general market for the consumption or commercial transfer of property either imported or produced from the soil.
Having said thus much concerning the welfare of the commercial centre of the territory, my reflections are naturally turned towards the interest of agriculture.
of the merchant and planter is the same, and he is no friend to either who would wish to divide them.
In advertising to your primary duties, I have yet to suggest one, which, which can be more important or interesting—I mean some general provision for the education of youth.
Among the several states of the union, an ingenious emulation happily prevails, in encouraging literature, and literary institutions, and some of these are making rapid strides towards rivaling the proudest establishments of Europe.
As connected with the education of our youth, every constitutional encouragement should be given to ministers of the gospel.
In the age in which we live, as well as in almost every one that has preceded it, we find that neither moderation, nor wisdom, nor justice, can protect a people against the encroachments of tyrannical power.
In all your arrangements for the public convenience, let me advise a prudent economy.
In all your deliberations, gentlemen, permit me to recommend a free, candid, and dispassionate discussion as the best means of insuring an harmonious and useful session.
WILLIAM C. C. CLAIBORNE.
New-Orleans, December 4, 1801.
After his Excellency had concluded, the President delivered an address in the French language.
On motion of Dr. Watkins, a committee was appointed to draft an answer to the Governor's speech.
On motion of Dr. Watkins, the address of M. Poydras was ordered to be printed.
Messrs. Wilkoff and Morgan were appointed a committee to fix the salaries of the Officers of the Council.
On motion of M. Pollock, leave was given to bring in a bill "to indemnify certain officers for the act therein mentioned, and for other purposes," and ordered to be referred to a committee of the whole to-morrow.
1200 BUSHEL'S BARLEY.
Will positively be sold, by Proffer & Moncure, at the Lumber house of the late George Nicholson, at Rocketts, on Monday the 4th of February, at 12 o'clock.
TWELVE hundred bushels of good clean BARLEY, for the benefit of Wm. Forrester & Co. of the city of Richmond, they having refused to receive the said Barley when tendered to them at Rocketts, agreeable to contract.
January 25. JOHN ELLIS.
Agreeable to a Decree of the County Court of King and Queen, WILL BE SOLD, at the Court-House, on Monday the 11th February next, it being Court day:
SEVEN LIKELY NEGROES, belonging to the Estate of Thomas G. Rowe, decd. Twelve months credit will be allowed the purchasers for the said Negroes, on giving bond with approved security, to the COMMISSIONERS.
January 25. 3w
VALUABLE LAND—FOR SALE.
BY virtue of a deed of trust from William Maffie decd. in order to secure and pay the following debts, viz. the sum of £500: 3s. in specie assigned by Nathaniel Maffie to Archd. Bryce, Jr. for the purposes mentioned in the said assignment, and the sum of £183: 7s. 10d. due to Archd. Bryce with interest thereon from the 15th day of December 1802, at 6 per cent per annum till paid.
Will be sold, at the late residence of William Maffie, on Friday the 1st day of March next, for ready money.
All that TRACT OF LAND, in Goochland county, (whereon Mr. Francis Maffie now lives) containing by a late survey 268 3/4 acres, lying and being on the waters of the Little Byrd Creek, and bounded by the lands of Capt. Michael Maffie, decd. Mr. David Ross, Mr. John Matthews and others.
January 25. JOHN FORBES, trustee.
FOR SALE.
A NEGRO MAN. He is an excellent gardener and fisherman, and would be a valuable servant at a distance from the town.
ALSO FOR HIRE, a GIRL, about 14 years of age, accustomed to the nursery and other domestic business; and a WOMAN, who is a good Cook. Apply at the office of the Enquirer. January 25. epy.
BROKER'S OFFICE.
THE Subscriber has opened a Broker's Office, opposite the Union Tavern, and over the Counting-house of Thomas and Amos Ladd. All business confided to him will be transacted with strict fidelity. THOMAS NORVELL. October 9. tf

For the Rainbow.
ON IRREPEALABLE LAWS.
THERE is no subject more important to the American people, than one which involves the ascertainment of the just limits of legislative power.
This subject is not merely a speculative one. It is said, on the best authority, that the legislature of Massachusetts at a late session, passed near thirty irrepealable laws, in the shape of charters, acts of incorporation, exclusive privileges, &c.
If a legislative act be irrepealable, be paramount to the power of future legislatures, this effect clearly arises, not from the form which may be given to the instrument.
I will put the case, which is a very strong one, of Col. Mayo's bridge. When this privilege was granted, it was not for the benefit of the grantee only, but also for that of the public.
Such then, and such only, are the only solid foundations of irrepealable laws, and such is a general view of the degree of inviolability to which they can reasonably lay claim.
The act "establishing religious freedom," declares, as natural rights, certain great & clear principles, which would seem to challenge universal assent.
If a constitution should gain ground, enlarg-
ing the sphere of legislative power, in relation to irrepealable laws, what an effect would it not have, in derogation of the power of the people, operating by a change of representatives?
* Vid. the case of the Yazoo grant by Georgia.
Miscellaneous.
The Swifts air called the Ranz des Vaches is distinguished by its simplicity and tenderness.
RANZ DES VACHES.
Quand reverrai-je en un jour Tous les objets de mon amour: Nos claires Ruisseaux, Nos Coteaux, Nos Hameaux, Nos Montagnes, Et l'ombrage de nos Montagnes? La fi gentille Haseau A l'ombre d'un ormeau, Quand danserai-je au son du chalumeau? Quand reverrai-je en un jour Tous les objets de mon amour; Mon Pere, Ma Mere, Mon Frere, Ma Sœur, Mes Agneaux, Mes Troupeaux, Ma Bergere? Quand reverrai-je en un jour Tous les objets de mon amour
The editor would be extremely happy to receive a translation of this simple and affecting air, from some person who combines a knowledge of the French language, with the genius of poetry.
THE COMPASS.
An original invention of the Chinese. The present system of Chinese navigation is to keep as near the shore as possible; and never to lose sight of land, unless in voyages that absolutely require it; such as to Japan, Batavia, and Cochin China.
Even this idea of the feat of Magnetic influence, together with the construction of the compass box, the division of the card into eight principal points, and each of these again subdivided into three, the manner of suspending the needle, and its diminutive size seldom exceeding in length three quarters of an inch,
Anonymous.
FROM THE (N. E.) PALLADIUM.
COMMUNICATION.—The establishment of the federal constitution has not only served in a high degree to stimulate agricultural industry, to spur commercial adventure and to embolden individuals and companies to speculative enterprises of great importance and utility in society,
The principle is on the rotatory or revolving motion of a strong rope, the ends fastened together by a hook and thimble, and mounted to prevent being separated by any accident in the revolution. This rope, which may be called a
main stay, has loops fastened to it at equal distances round the whole; and the rope is cast over two parts with rollers to each, to keep it in place and relieve the friction, placed near the mass of matter to be moved, and at a sufficient distance from each other so to spread the rope, that the ascending and descending carriages may not interfere, by posts, beams and hooks.
This invention may be used with only eight or ten carriages, or will admit of any number, and the length of line may be continued to any extent.
The most obvious uses to which this invention may be advantageously applied are for reducing hills on turnpike-roads, where it makes the road required, as it prepares the inclined plane on which to extend its operation—in reducing hills to regular gradation in populous cities, and filling up adjacent docks.
The inventor, Mr. J. Welsh, has taken measures in this country and in Europe, to secure his property in this and some other inventions.
TO NON-RESIDENTS OF KENTUCKY.
THE SUBSCRIBER living in the neighbourhood of Frankfort, Kentucky, having undertaken to pay the taxes of a number of gentlemen residing in Virginia and elsewhere, on their lands in this state, and finding that the remitting of money to him for that purpose is attended with great difficulties, risk and trouble, proposes to those gentlemen and any others who may find it an accommodation to them, the following plan, to wit:
N. B. The postage on all letters directed to me on the above business must be paid. December 15, 1804. (S. May.)
WANTED,
A MAN without a family, well qualified to teach correctly the English and Latin languages. Such an one who will come well recommended, will meet with liberal encouragement, in a private family. Enquire of the editor of the Enquirer. January 18—(law Sw.)
THIS DAY IS PUBLISHED,
AND FOR SALE AT RITCHIE & WORSLEY'S BOOK-STORE:
The Rainbow, SERIES FIRST; Originally Published in the RICHMOND ENQUIRER
AN association was formed during the last summer, by a few gentlemen, of whom some are now, and others have been, inhabitants of this city, for the purpose of composing a series of Miscellaneous Essays for the Richmond Enquirer.
Richmond Dec. 11th, 1804.
CHOICE LANDS—FOR SALE.
A DIVISION of the famous Saura Town Lands having taken place between the heirs of James Park Farley, Esq. dec'd. and Col. John S. Farley and his sister Mrs. Elizabeth Morison, the subscribers, Robert Taylor of Norfolk, and Charles Duncan at Ross, near Petersburg, are fully empowered by the said Col. Farley and Mrs. Morison, to dispose of their proportion, containing 12,832 acres, which are surveyed and laid off in eight lots, containing from 500 to 2800 acres, agreeable to plots in the possession of the said Duncan.
ROBERT TAYLOR, or CHARLES DUNCAN. eptf
CASH
WILL be given for 12 or 15 BOYS, from 7 to 15 years old. Enquire of the Printers. Dec. 15. [eplf.]
FOR SALE,
BY WILLIAM ROSS, AT THE EAGLE TAVERN: 1 LIGHTY-four yards Fancy, Tolson, California 2 and Swandown Westinghouse 2 cales Britannia, 1 bale Ticklenburgs, 8 cales and trunks Chintzes and Calicoes, 1 cales Cotton Shawls and Pocket Handkis. 1 do. India Satins, assorted colours, 1 bale Gurrha Mullins, 2 do. Bafta do. 3 do. Culla do. 1 do. Jaunah Mamoody do. 1 do. do. Samah do. 60 boxes Spanish Segars, 20 do. containing sets of Tea China, 61 pieces each, 5 do. assorted ditto. 80 reams Medium Vellum Printing Paper, 6 do. Foolscap Writing ditto. N. B. Crop Tobacco, Flour, or Flax-Seed, will be taken in payment as cash. January 11. (2awtf)
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO THE DEBTORS OF
ROSS & FORD, THAT in compliance with my duty as assignee I shall commence suits indiscriminately against all those who do not come forward and give assurances when payment may be expected. December 22. (it.) NEIL MCCOULL.
ENOCH SULLIVAN,
JEWELLER & HAIR-WORKER, (Next door below the Eagle Tavern) BEGS leave to inform the public that he has for Sale, a RASHIONABLE ASSORTMENT OF JEWELRY & SILVER WARE; Also, a HANDSOME SUPPLY OF LADIES ELEGANT COMBS, POCKET BOOKS, &c. Dec. 8. eptf.
TO BE SOLD,
For ready money, pursuant to a decree of the Federal Circuit Court, for the district of Virginia in a suit between Phineas Bond, Attorney for the creditors of Ezekiel Edwards Plaintiff, and David Ross and others defendants.
TWO undivided parts, out of three, of forty-two acres of LAND, in the county of Henrico, upon Four-Mile Creek, with the Mills and Houses thereon, known by the name of the Norwich Mills, ALSO a Tract or Parcel of LAND, situate in the county of Henrico, about seven miles below the City of Richmond, commonly called and known by the name of the Seven Pines, thought to contain one thousand acres, but Mr. Ross undertakes, that an accurate survey and plot shall be produced on the day of sale.
The Sale will positively take place at the Eagle Tavern in the City of Richmond on Thursday the 21st day of February next. BEN. MOSBY, D. M. for JOSEPH SCOTT, M. V. D. Jan. 8. (ids.)
At the same time and place, I will dispose of the other undivided third part of the said Norwich Mills and will also dispose of a valuable tract of LAND adjoining thereto, which contains about five hundred acres, with various improvements. The whole is a valuable estate.—Mr. Hooten will shew the Mills and the land. The terms of payment for the said land and the other third part of the Mills will be half ready money, and twelve months credit for the other half. DAVID ROSS.
NEAL NELSON, BOOT & SHOE MANUFACTURER,
MAKES Boots & Shoes to any pattern or fashion, equal in point of MATERIALS and WORKMANSHIP to any in general use. Imported Boots and Shoes, of the best quality and newest fashion, for sale. Gentlemen at a distance, who are disposed to forward me their measure, by paying attention to the annexed cut, can be fitted with Boots or Shoes as well as if they were on the spot. A—the length of the Boot. B—the pitch of the Heel. C—the length of the instep. D—the length of the heel and instep. E—the pitch of the instep. F—the ball of the foot. G—the ball of the foot. H—the ball of the foot. I—the ball of the foot. J—the ball of the foot. K—the ball of the foot. L—the ball of the foot. M—the ball of the foot. N—the ball of the foot. O—the ball of the foot. P—the ball of the foot. Q—the ball of the foot. R—the ball of the foot. S—the ball of the foot. T—the ball of the foot. U—the ball of the foot. V—the ball of the foot. W—the ball of the foot. X—the ball of the foot. Y—the ball of the foot. Z—the ball of the foot.
WASHINGTON TAVERN.
THE subscriber has taken a lease of this tenement for a number of years, and has put it in a state of repair which renders it not inferior to any in this City. Besides the Tavern he has detached buildings, well calculated to accommodate those who are anxious of greater privacy than a tavern usually affords. These tenements adjoin the public square, and are within two hundred yards of the Capitol. They have decided advantages over any other houses in this City, with respect to pure air and excellent water. He has good stables and a constant supply of the best FORAGE. He tenders his services to his friends and the public, and affirms them, that no unlawful gaming, nor any other practice which might, in any degree, have a tendency to disturb the peace of his house, will ever be permitted. EDWARD HALLAM. Richmond, September 26.
TO PRINTERS.
HENRY OURAM—PRESS-MAKER, South-east corner of Prune and Sixth-streets: RESPECTFULLY informs the trade, that he undertakes to supply Printing-Offices with every thing in his line, having a complete Printer's FOUNDRY, constantly employed in making the wood part of Presses, Furniture, Rules, &c. &c. Copies of all fees, Composing Sticks, Brads & Wood Galleys, &c. &c. constantly on hand, or made to order with dispatch and neatness. Orders from any part of the Continent attended to. Philad. Jan. 5. eptm.
NOTICE.
THE creditors who have proved their debts under a commission of Bankruptcy, awarded against Christopher Anthony, and Tarleton W. Pleasants, under the firm of Anthony and Pleasants, merchants of the city of Richmond, are desired to meet the assignees of the said Bankrupts estate and effects on Saturday the 26th of this present month, at 9 o'clock in the forenoon, at the commissioners office, to attend to, or dissent from the said assignees, commencing, prosecuting or defending any suit or suits at law, or in equity for the recovery of any part of the said Bankrupts estate and effects, or to the compounding, submitting to arbitration, or otherwise agreeing to any matter or thing relating thereto, and on other special affairs. By order of the commissioners. ROBERT BROOKE, C. C. Commissioner's Office, Saturday, 15th January, 1805. eptf.
FOR SALE—at Rockets.
THE LOT, and two story BRICK HOUSE, containing three tenements, which the subscriber purchased at the sale of George Nicholson, deceased. The lot is well situated for a warehouse, and the brick building for a bake-house, lumber-house, or Tobacco factory. JOHN ELLIS. November 14.
NOTICE.
ALL persons indebted to the late firm of BUCHANAN, DUNLOP & CO. of Petersburg, ROBERT POLLOK & CO. of Richmond, and DUNLOP, POLLOK & CO. of Manchester, are hereby notified, that James Dunlop, late a partner in the above concerns, has become purchaser of the outstanding debts—they will therefore be pleased to make payment to Mr. John Tompkins residing in Richmond, and the subscriber residing in Petersburg, who alone are authorised to make collections and grant discharges.—Suits will be instituted immediately commenced against all who do not make payment before the first of February next. JOHN DUNLOP, Attorney For JAMES DUNLOP. Petersburg, Nov. 15, 1804. eptf.
J. TOMPKINS
RESPECTFULLY informs those concerned, that he has removed the books and papers of the late concern of Robert Pollok & Co. and Dunlop, Pollok & Co. to a new Brick House near the Basin, and directly opposite to the Scale-House. Where he has for sale, a few pipes of OLD COGNAC BRANDY, of superior quality. December 11.
NOTICE.
WE the undersigned, partners in the late concerns of BUCHANAN, DUNLOP, & Co. at Petersburg, of ROBERT POLLOK, & Co. at Richmond, and of DUNLOP, POLLOK, & Co. at Manchester, have sold to Mr. James Dunlop, our late partner in said concerns, the debts now due to, and outstanding at these different establishments. Those hereafter payments will therefore please to take notice, that hereafter payments are to be made only to the said Mr. James Dunlop, his attorney or attorneys, and to whom those having claims against these concerns will apply for payment. DAVID BUCHANAN. By ROBERT POLLOK, his Attorney. ROBERT POLLOK. Virginia, Petersburg, Dec. 6, 1804. (ep3m)
TWENTY DOLLARS REWARD.
JACK, or JACK ASH, a gardner by profession, formerly the property of Lewis Burwell, dec'd. was sold by the Exor. of said Burwell, about this time last year, to a gentleman residing in Amherst county, who permitted him to come down last May, for the purpose of visiting his wife and relations, with a promise that his visits should be repeated frequently. Jack has thought proper to abuse this indulgence by not returning to his master. His age is something above fifty, rather under the middle size. 'Tis believed that he secretes himself in Chesterfield, probably Manchester, where his wife's friends live. The keeper of the toll bridge or the ferryman when on visits to his wife, who is free, and who resides opposite Mr. Southgate's garden. Whoever will deliver the said Jack to Mr. Rose the jailor will receive the above reward on application at the office of the Enquirer. Jan. 2, 1805. tf.
FOR SALE.
Will be exposed to Public Sale on the 30th of January next, or the next fair day, at my plantation in Richmond county: ALL the STOCK, Plantation utensils, Household and Kitchen Furniture—Also, several LIKELY NEGROES. Terms of sale will be made known on the day of sale. At the same time will be offered for sale. 800 acres of VALUABLE LAND, situate on the Rappahannock, & abounding in fine Fish, Oysters, &c. This land is of equal quality with lands in the neighbourhood. WILLIAM T. COLSTON. January 18.—(tds.)
FOR SALE,
At Louisa Court-House, on the 12th day of February next: THIRTY-SEVEN VALUABLE SLAVES, belonging to the estate of Christopher Smith, dec'd. consisting of Men, Women and Children.—It is believed they are as likely a parcel of slaves as was ever offered for sale in the state. Bonds with approved security, bearing interest from the date, payable the 10th of February next, will be expected from the purchasers: the interest will be remitted if the principal is punctually paid. CHARLES SMITH, Agg Exor of CHRISTOPHER SMITH, dec'd. Louisa, 18th Jan. 1805. 10P
RICHMOND ACADEMY LOTTERY.
NOTICE is hereby given, that the drawing of the said Lottery will commence on this day, and be continued on Tuesdays and Saturdays, by drawing from fifty to five hundred numbers, until the whole is completed. All tickets not folded and delivered before this day, will be considered as held on account of the Trustees of the academy; and the agents for selling them are earnestly requested to remit either the money or the tickets committed to their disposal to the commissioners from whom they were received. Those who have purchased tickets on a credit, will be pleased to reckon from this day. If the days of drawing, and the number to be drawn, shall be increased, public notice will be given of the same. The prizes to be paid in sixty days after the drawing is completed. It is hoped that the tickets remaining in the hands of the commissioners, will be readily bought by those who are well wishers to the proposed academy, or who wish to see in the neighbourhood of this city, the beginning of a great National University. The committee appointed for that purpose here already purchased about 12 acres of ground a little more than a mile from town, in an eligible situation; & the necessary buildings will be begun in the ensuing spring. On behalf of the trustees, Robert Mitchell, } Appointed to super- Robert Pollard, } intend the drawing. Alexr. Stuart, } Wm. Price, } G. Tucker, } Richmond, January 8, 1805.
NOTICE.
THE surveyors of the different counties in Virginia, who by law are to account with the President and Directors of William and Mary College, for a proportion of their fees, and who have not yet done, are requested to render their accounts to July last, and pay the respective balances due to the college. WILLIAM COLEMAN, Burfar. Williamsburg, January 6, 1805.
During the present session of assembly,
James Semple, Esq. member for the city of Williamsburg, will receive and grant a discharge for any money which shall be paid to him. January 15.—(2w.)
BLANKS.
The following Blanks, printed on a handsome Script Type, may be had at the office of the Enquirer.
 BANK Checks, (plain) pr. quire 1  ditto ditto, (ruled) 1 25  Negotiable Notes, 1  Ditto on fine paper, 1 25  Foreign Bills of Exchange, 1 50  Bills of Lending, 1  County Court Clerks' Blanks, 50  Sheriff's ditto, 50  Constables' Warrants, 50   PRINTING generally executed in an elegant style, and on the shortest notice.