Virginia Argus (Richmond, Va.), 1808-01-01 00:00:00

VIRGINIA ARGUS.
[XVth YEAR.]
A FREE PRESS MAINTAINS THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE PEOPLE.
[No. 1420.]
RICHMOND:—PRINTED (ON TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS) BY SAMUEL PLEASANTS, JUNIOR, PRINTER TO THE COMMONWEALTH.
Four Dollars Per Annum—paid in Advance.]
FRIDAY, JANUARY 1, 1808.
[12 1-2 Cents Single.]
By Authority.
AN ACT
An act to allow an additional compensation to the secretaries of the Mississippi, Indiana, Louisiana and Michigan Territories.
B E it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That each of the secretaries of the Mississippi, Indiana, Louisiana and Michigan Territories, appointed under the authority of the United States, be entitled to the annual sum of one thousand dollars, in lieu of his present compensation, to commence on the first day of January next.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate.
December 5, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
To change the name of the district of Bedford and Pepperellborough, in Massachusetts, to that of Saco.
B E it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the district at present called Bedford and Pepperellborough in Massachusetts, shall in future be called the district of Saco, and that the Collector of the said district be permitted to reside in Saco, or Bedford; and that all the provisions of the several acts of Congress that relate to the district of Bedford and Pepperellborough shall be, and the same are hereby continued in full force with respect to the district of Saco.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate.
December 15, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
AN ACT
To appropriate money for the providing of an additional number of Gun-boats.
B E it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That the President of the United States be, and he hereby is authorized and empowered to cause to be built, or purchased, armed and equipped, a number not exceeding one hundred and eighty-eight gun-boats, for the better protection of the ports and harbors of the United States, and for such other purposes as in his opinion the public service may require.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted , That a sum not exceeding eight hundred and fifty-two thousand five hundred dollars be, and hereby is appropriated for this purpose, out of any monies in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated.
J. B. VARNUM, Speaker of the House of Representatives. GEO. CLINTON, Vice-President of the United States, and President of the Senate.
December 18, 1807. APPROVED, TH: JEFFERSON.
Congress.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
FRIDAY, December 18. A message in writing was received from the President of the United States, as follows:
[See message and documents in our last.]
On motion of Mr. Holland and seconded by Mr. Clay.
The said message and documents accompanying it were severally read:
Ordered , That the letters referred to in said message be referred to the President of the United States, agreeably to his request.
On motion of Mr. Randolph, and seconded, that the house do come to the following resolution:
Resolved , That an embargo be laid on all shipping, the property of citizens of the United States now in port or which shall hereafter arrive.
And the question being put that the House do agree to the said resolution, and on the question thereupon, the Yeas and Nays being demanded by one fifth of the members present, and debate arising, a motion was made by Mr. Macon, and seconded, that the resolution do lie on the table.
It was resolved in the affirmative.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Otis, their Secretary: Mr. Speaker, the Senate have in confidence directed me to inform this honorable house, that they have passed a bill entitled "An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the United States," in which bill they desire the concurrence of this House, and then he withdrew.
The said bill was received and read the first time.
On motion the said bill was read the second time and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House on the state of the union on this day.
On motion of Mr. Crowninshield and seconded, Resolved , That the House will immediately resolve itself into a committee of the whole House on the said bill.
The House accordingly resolved itself into the said committee.
And after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair and Mr. Masters reported, that the committee had acted according to order, had the said bill under consideration, but not having time to go through the same, had directed him to ask for leave to sit again.
Resolved , That this House will to-morrow again resolve itself into a committee
of the whole on the bill entitled "An act laying an embargo," &c. And the House adjourned until to-morrow morning 11 o'clock.
SATURDAY, December 19. On motion of Mr. Stanfard and seconded, that the committee of the whole House to whom was referred the bill entitled "An act laying an embargo," &c. be discharged from the consideration thereof, and after debate on the said motion the question was taken thereupon, and passed in the negative.
The House according to the order of the day resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the said bill, and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Masters reported that the committee had according to order had the said bill under consideration, and directed him to ask leave to sit again.
Resolved , That this House will on Monday morning again resolve itself into a committee of the whole on the bill entitled "An act laying an embargo," &c. And then the House adjourned until Monday morning 11 o'clock.
MONDAY, December 21.
The House, according to the order of the day, again resolved itself into a committee of the whole House on the bill from the Senate, entitled "An act laying an embargo," &c. and after some time spent therein, Mr. Speaker resumed the chair, and Mr. Masters reported that the committee had according to order had the said bill under consideration, and directed him to report the same to the House, with several amendments which he delivered in at the clerk's table, where the same were twice read, and, on the question severally put thereupon, agreed to by the House.
A motion being made by Mr. Crowninshield and seconded to amend the amendment reported by the committee of the whole House by striking out the words "Letters of Marque excepted," and the word "retained" in the tenth line of the amendment and insert the word "relinquish," and the word "retained" in the 12th line, and insert the word "relinquish;" whereupon it was resolved in the affirmative.
Ordered, that the said bill with the amendments, be read a third time this day.
Whereupon the question was stated, that the bill sent from the Senate, entitled "An act laying an embargo," &c. together with the amendments agreed to do pass.
A motion being made by Mr. Quincy and seconded to amend the said bill by adding a new section thereto, in the words following: And be it further enacted , That nothing in this act shall be construed to prohibit the sailing of any ship or vessel duly enrolled or licensed for carrying on the fisheries with the usual tackle, apparel, and supplies customary on a fishing voyage: Provided , That bond with sufficient security be previously given by such ship or vessel shall not directly or indirectly carry on any commerce whatsoever during the voyage, and shall return with her fishing fare to some port or place within the United States. And on the question thereupon it passed in the negative—Ayes 45, Nays 82.
YEAS—Messrs. W. Alston, Bacon, Barker, Carlton, Champion, Chandler, Chittenden, Cook, Crowninshield, Culpepper, Cutts, Dana, Davenport, Deane, Durrell, Elliot, Ely, Gardenier, Gardner, Green, Hoge, Humphreys, Isley, Kirkpatrick, Knight, Lambert, Lewis, Livermore, Lyon, Macon, Marion, Morrow, Mosely, Pitkin, Quincy, Russell, Seaver, Stedman, Surges, Taggart, Talmadge, Upham, Van Allen, Van Cortlandt, Van Rensselaer, Wilbour—45. NAYS—Messrs. L. J. Alston, Bard, Bassett, Bibb, Blackledge, Blake, Blount, Boyle, Brown, Burwell, Butler, Calhoun, G. W. Campbell, J. Campbell, M. Clay, Clopton, Cobb, Dawson, Desha, Findley, Fisk, Franklin, Garnett, Goldsborough, Goodwyn, Gray, Harris, Heister, Helms, Holmes, Howard, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Kelly, Kenan, Key, Love, Macon, Masters, M'Creery, Milner, J. Montgomery, N. R. Moore, T. Moore, Jno. Morrow, Mumford, Nelson, Newbold, Newton, Nicholas, Porter, Pugh, Randolph, Rea of Pen. Rhea of Ten. J. Richards, M. Richards, Riker, Rowan, Sawyer, Sloan, Smelt, Smilie, J. K. Smith, S. Smith, Jno. Smith, Southard, Stanfard, Storer, Swart, Taylor, Thompson, Trigg, Troup, Van Horn, Wharton, Whitehill, M. Williams, Wilson, Winn, Witherell—82.
On motion of Mr. Gardenier and seconded that the doors be now opened, that the injunction of secrecy imposed on the members of this House respecting the bill now before them be taken off, and that all further proceedings relative to the said bill be had with open doors; and the question being put thereon, it passed in the negative—Ayes 36, Nays 92.
YEAS—Messrs. L. J. Alston, J. Campbell, Champion, Chittenden, Culpepper, Dana, Davenport, Elliot, Ely, Gardenier, Garnett, Goldsborough, Gray, Hoge, Kelly, Key, Kirkpatrick, Lewis, Livermore, Lyon, Macon, Mosely, Pitkin, Quincy, Randolph, Rowan, Russell, Smelt, S. Smith, Stedman, Surges, Taggart, Talmadge, Upham, Van Horn, Van Rensselaer—36. NAYS—Messrs. W. Alston, Bacon, Barker, Bassett, Bibb, Blackledge, Blake, Blount, Boyle, Brown, Butler, Calhoun, G. W. Campbell, Carlton, Chandler, M. Clay, Clopton, Cook, Crowninshield, Culpepper, Cutts, Dawson, Deane, Desha, Durrell, Findley, Fisk, Franklin, Gardner, Goodwyn, Green, Harris, Heister, Helms, Holmes, Howard, Isley, Johnson, Jones, Kenan, Knight, Key, Lambert, Love, Marion, M'Creery, J. Montgomery, N. R. Moore, T. Moore, Jno. Morrow, Jno. Morrow, Mumford, Nelson, Newbold, Newton, Nicholas, Porter, Pugh, Randolph, Rhea Ten. J. Richards, M. Richards, Riker, Sawyer, Seaver, Sloan, Smelt, Smilie, J. K. Smith, Southard, Storer, Swart, Taylor, Thomas, Troup, Van Allen, Van Cortlandt, Wharton, Whitehill, Wilbour, M. Williams, Wilson, Winn, Witherell—81.
The question again recurring on the bill with the amendments, whereupon the question was stated, that the said bill with the amendments do pass, it was resolved in the affirmative, as stated in our last.
Ordered, That the Clerk of this House do carry the said bill as amended to the Senate, and desire their concurrence.
Humphreys, Isley, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Kenan, Knight, Lambert, Love, Marion, Masters, M'Creery, Milner, J. Montgomery, N. R. Moore, T. Moore, Jno. Morrow, John Morrow, Mumford, Nelson, Newton, Nicholas, Porter, Pugh, Rea of Pen. Rhea of Ten. J. Richards, M. Richards, Riker, Sawyer, Seaver, Sloan, Smilie, J. K. Smith, Jno. Smith, Southard, Stanfard, Storer, Swart, Taylor, Thomas, Thompson, Trigg, Troup, Van Allen, Van Cortlandt, Wharton, Whitehill, Wilbour, M. Williams, Wilson, Winn, Witherell—92.
On motion of Mr. Mumford and seconded, to amend the first section of the bill, by inserting after the word "laid" the words "for & during the term of 60 days," and the question being put thereupon, it passed in the negative—Ayes 46, Nays 82.
YEAS—Messrs. Bibb, Blackledge, Blake, J. Campbell, Carlton, Champion, Chittenden, Cobb, Culpepper, Dana, Davenport, Elliot, Ely, Gardenier, G. Garnett, Goldsborough, Hoge, Humphreys, Kelly, Kirkpatrick, Lewis, Livermore, Lyon, Masters, Milner, Mosely, Mumford, Pitkin, Quincy, Randolph, Rowan, Russell, S. Smith, Stanfard, Stedman, Surges, Swart, Taggart, Talmadge, Thomas, Thompson, Upham, Van Allen, Van Cortlandt, Van Horn, Van Rensselaer—46. NAYS—Messrs. L. J. Alston, W. Alston, Bacon, Bard, Barker, Bassett, Blount, Boyle, Brown, Burwell, Butler, Calhoun, G. W. Campbell, Chandler, M. Clay, Clopton, Cook, Crowninshield, Cutts, Dawson, Deane, Desha, Durrell, Findley, Fisk, Franklin, Gardner, Goodwyn, Gray, Green, Harris, Heister, Helms, Holmes, Howard, Isley, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Kenan, Key, Knight, Lambert, Love, Macon, Marion, M'Creery, J. Montgomery, N. R. Moore, T. Moore, Jno. Morrow, John Morrow, Nelson, Newbold, Newton, Nicholas, Porter, Pugh, Rea, Pen. Rhea, Ten. J. Richards, M. Richards, Riker, Sawyer, Seaver, Sloan, Smelt, Smilie, J. K. Smith, Jno. Smith, Southard, Storer, Taylor, Trigg, Troup, Wharton, Whitehill, Wilbour, M. Williams, Wilson, Winn, Witherell—82.
On motion of Mr. Quincy and seconded, to amend the said bill by adding a new section thereto in the following words: And be it further enacted , that nothing in this act shall be construed to contravene any treaty or treaties between any foreign nation and the United States, the question being taken thereupon, it passed in the negative—Ayes 52, Nays 75.
YEAS—Messrs. Bacon, Bassett, Bibb, Blackledge, Boyle, J. Campbell, Carlton, Champion, Chittenden, Crowninshield, Culpepper, Dana, Davenport, Elliot, Ely, Gardenier, Garnett, Goldsborough, Gray, Hoge, Holland, Howard, Humphreys, Jenkins, Kelly, Key, Kirkpatrick, Lewis, Livermore, Lyon, Macon, Marion, Masters, Milner, Mosely, Pitkin, Pugh, Quincy, Randolph, Rowan, Russell, Southard, Stanfard, Stedman, Surges, Taggart, Talmadge, Thompson, Trigg, Upham, Van Horn, Van Rensselaer—52. NAYS—Messrs. L. J. Alston, W. Alston, Bard, Barker, Blake, Blount, Brown, Burwell, Butler, Calhoun, G. W. Campbell, Chandler, M. Clay, Clopton, Cobb, Cook, Cutts, Dawson, Deane, Desha, Durrell, Findley, Fisk, Franklin, Gardner, Goodwyn, Green, Harris, Heister, Helms, Holmes, Isley, Johnson, Jones, Kenan, Knight, Lambert, Love, M'Creery, J. Montgomery, N. R. Moore, T. Moore, Jno. Morrow, Mumford, Nelson, Newbold, Newton, Nicholas, Porter, Rea Pen. Rhea Ten. J. Richards, M. Richards, Riker, Seaver, Sloan, Smelt, Smilie, J. K. Smith, S. Smith, Jno. Smith, Southard, Stanfard, Stedman, Surges, Taggart, Talmadge, Trigg, Upham, Van Horn, Van Rensselaer—75.
On motion of Mr. Gardenier and seconded, that the House now adjourn; the question being taken thereupon, it passed in the negative—Ayes 40, Nays 81.
YEAS—Messrs. L. J. Alston, Bibb, J. W. Campbell, Champion, Chittenden, Cobb, Cook, Davenport, Elliot, Ely, Gardenier, Garnett, Goldsborough, Gray, Hoge, Holland, Jenkins, Kelly, Kirkpatrick, Lewis, Livermore, Lyon, Masters, Milner, Mosely, Pitkin, Quincy, Rowan, Russell, Smelt, S. Smith, Stanfard, Stedman, Surges, Taggart, Talmadge, Trigg, Upham, Van Horn, Van Rensselaer—40.
NAYS—Messrs. W. Alston, Bacon, Bard, Barker, Bassett, Blake, Blount, Boyle, Brown, Butler, Calhoun, G. W. Campbell, Carlton, Chandler, M. Clay, Clopton, Crowninshield, Culpepper, Cutts, Dawson, Deane, Desha, Durrell, Findley, Fisk, Franklin, Gardner, Goodwyn, Green, Harris, Heister, Helms, Holmes, Howard, Isley, Johnson, Jones, Kenan, Knight, Key, Lambert, Love, Marion, M'Creery, J. Montgomery, N. R. Moore, T. Moore, Jno. Morrow, Jno. Morrow, Mumford, Nelson, Newbold, Newton, Nicholas, Porter, Pugh, Randolph, Rhea Ten. J. Richards, M. Richards, Riker, Sawyer, Seaver, Sloan, Smelt, Smilie, J. K. Smith, Southard, Storer, Swart, Taylor, Thomas, Troup, Van Allen, Van Cortlandt, Wharton, Whitehill, Wilbour, M. Williams, Wilson, Winn, Witherell—81.
The question again recurring on the bill with the amendments, whereupon the question was stated, that the said bill with the amendments do pass, it was resolved in the affirmative, as stated in our last.
Ordered, That the Clerk of this House do carry the said bill as amended to the Senate, and desire their concurrence.
And the House adjourned till 11 o'clock to-morrow morning.
TUESDAY, December 22.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Otis their Secretary:
"Mr. Speaker, the Senate have agreed to the amendments made by the House to the bill entitled "An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the United States: and then he withdrew."
Mr. Bacon from the joint committee for enrolled bills reported that the committee had examined an enrolled bill entitled "An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the United States," and had found the same to be truly enrolled: Whereupon Mr. Speaker signed the said enrolled bill.
Mr. Bacon, from the same committee also reported that the committee had presented to the President of the U. States, for his approbation of the enrolled bill, before-mentioned.
A message from the Senate by Mr. Otis their Secretary:
"Mr. Speaker: The President of the United States has approved and signed an act which originated in the Senate entitled "An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the U. States:" And then he withdrew."
On motion of Mr. Rowan and seconded, that the House do come to the following resolution:
Resolved , That the injunction of secrecy attached to the passage of a bill imposing or laying an embargo on the vessels within our ports and harbors be taken off, and that the secret journal relative to that subject be published.
A division of the question was called for by Mr. Bibb, and
On the question that the House do agree to the first member of the said resolution contained in the words following, to wit:
Resolved , That the injunction of secrecy attached to the passage of the bill imposing or laying an embargo on the vessels within our ports and harbors be taken off. It was resolved in the affirmative.
The question was then taken that the House do agree to the second member of the said resolution, contained in the words following, to wit: "and that the secret journal on that subject be published." And resolved in the affirmative.
FROM THE AURORA.
REVOLUTION IN SPAIN.
The following article appeared in the Political Register of last evening; it is a translation of a royal decree of the Spanish monarch, on the discovery of a plan to dethrone him, in which it seems his own nobility were involved; and have been consigned to prison. The consternation in Spain was great, and the issue is not to be calculated upon. Under what auspices the revolution was formed is not to be ascertained at once; and the more pains taken to fix it on any particular point, without evidence, the more must our doubts be excited—whether it originated at Paris or London, or in the discontent of the Spanish nobles themselves is not yet to be ascertained; whether it was connected with the recent visit of soi-disant Louis XVIII; or with the march of the French army towards Spain, time alone can determine. There are many reasons which might be adduced, without more than the trouble of writing them, to favor either belief; but as all that could be assumed would only tend to confound or render intelligence more uncertain; we shall not indulge in the conjecture, whether it was attempted by similar means, and for similar ends as the death of the emperor Paul, or the capture of Copenhagen, whether Lucien Bonaparte and the son of the Spanish monarch had formed a coalition; or that the Prince of Peace had aspired to the throne himself to the exclusion of both; or whether the son of the Spanish monarch, attempted the counter revolution in order to rescue the power of Spain and its government out of the hands of the Prince of Peace; the latter we think the most probable, and we consider it as not at all improbable that there should be external concert in the affair. There can be little doubt of a total revolution in the affairs of Spain; and as the croakers who sicken at our good fortune will labor hard to persuade the public that this event may be pernicious to the U. States, we think it necessary to offer a few remarks on the subject.
The ground the croakers will take will be the old one, that France is and will be more our enemy, in consequence of a revolution in Spain.
As those people never think reason or cause, as necessary to support any thing they choose to suggest—they are invulnerable on that ground; they are like the man to whom the wag bequeathed Locke upon human understanding they are both above reason and below it; we cannot therefore presume to discover that our exemption from the decree of 21st Nov. 1806, is enmity, nor can we any more discover why a revolt in Spain, however and by whomsoever attempted, should excite enmity against us, who had nothing to do with it. Now, with all due deference to the families of the volunteers and croakers, and they are numerous—with all due deference to their understandings under lock—we should rather presume, that if any effect at all could arise to the United States, it must be a good one.
Say that the revolt is at an end; then
the Spanish government will have the more care to take of affairs in Europe, and to avoid broils abroad; with us her differences then may come to a more speedy and certain issue.
Take it on the other side; suppose it to be a revolution even sustained or brought about by France; well, in that case, we have no alliance with Spain; we have on the contrary had some differences with Spain; in those differences France has acted towards us as a friend; and has gone so far as to cause the court of Spain to treat the American flag as exempted from the decree of November 21, 1806.
Here then we see nothing that can affect us; the Floridas it is said will be taken by France; that is in proportion as France encroaches in territory, and requires troops and resources to keep possession of power in Europe; the more will she be disposed to send the troops, to do nothing but occupy the shores of the unproductive (because not populous) colonies of Florida. But if some people had not a resource in absurdity, they could not find any thing to say.
The 30th of this month, his Catholic Majesty has passed to the Council the following royal decree.
"God, who watches over and protects his creatures will not permit the execution of atrocious deeds, when the victims are innocent: thus, therefore, has his omnipotence rescued me from the most unheard of catastrophe. My people, my subjects, all have a due sense of my Christianity and regular habits; all love me, and from all do I receive proofs of veneration, such as are due the respect of a father, who tenderly loves his children: Thus did I live persuaded of my supreme happiness, when an unknown hand discovered the most enormous and unnatural plan, contrived in my own palace and against my person. My life, which has been so often in danger, had already become a heavy burden to my successor; who possessed, and blind and devoid of every principle of religion, which my paternal care and I have had impressed upon his mind, had consulted, and even admitted a plan to dethrone me; I myself, enquired into, and investigated the veracity of this attempt, and surprised him in my own apartment, in possession of the cipher of intelligence which he received from traitors. I called together my president, ad interim, of the council, together with other ministers, to undertake the discovery: all was done in due form, and the result was, that I decreed the confinement of several criminals, and also that of my son to his own apartment. This was an additional grief to the many which already afflicted me; but as it is the most heinous, so likewise is it the most necessary to punish, and I ordered the publication of the facts, desirous to disclose to my subjects, a pain which might be lessened by the proof of their loyalty.
I have therefore communicated it, in order that it may circulate in due form. Dated in San Lorenzo, the 30th Oct. 1807. (Signed)
The pres. of the council, ad. int. Published this day, the preceding royal decree according to you, you will therefore extend it to all the courts of justice under your direction, for the reasons stated therein, acknowledging the receipt of said decree, and that you circulate it immediately. May God preserve your life many years. (Signed)
Don Bartolomeo Munos. Madrid, Oct. 31, 1807.
Virginia Legislature.
HOUSE OF DELEGATES.
SATURDAY, Dec. 26.
A communication from the Senate by their clerk:—The Senate have passed the bill, "For dividing the county of Amherst."
An engrossed bill, "Concerning the public guard," was read a third time and several blanks therein filled up—And the question being put on the passage of the bill, it passed in the negative—Ayes 63—Nays 65.
Resolved , That the said bill be rejected.
A bill "To continue and amend an act concerning the James River Company," was read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill "Incorporating the trustees of a free school or schools in King George County," and
A bill, "To authorise the cutting drains in the county of Northampton, (which bills lay on the table) were severally read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
A bill, "Incorporating a company to establish a turnpike from Fairfax courthouse to Fairfax courthouse," was read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
On motion, Ordered , That the said bill be now read a second time.—The said bill was accordingly read a second time, and, on motion, Ordered to be committed to Messrs. Hunton, Dace, Blake, Summers, Mason, Brent and Tucker.
A motion was made for leave to bring in a bill, "Suspending for a limited time, the operation of the act, concerning the Public Guard and for other purposes;" and the question being put on the giving leave to bring in the said bill, it passed in the negative—Ayes 60—Nays 66.
Mr. Anderson presented from the committee of propositions and grievances, a bill, "Authorising John Winbush to erect a dam across Banister river;" and
Mr. Preston from the committee to whom was referred that part of the Governor's communication which relates to the road from the upper navigation of Kanawha, to the upper navigation of James river, presented a bill, "Concerning the road from the upper navigation of

Kanawha, to the upper navigation of James river, which bills were severally received and read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Cheatham, from the committee appointed to examine the Clerk's office, made a report, which was read, and ordered to be laid upon the table, and is in the following words:
The committee find that the papers, from the year 1775, to the year 1805, both years inclusive, are properly arranged in the office.
That the journals written or printed, from the year 1709, to the year 1805, both years inclusive, are deposited in the office.
The enrolled bills from 1775 to 1805, both years inclusive, are filed in the office and neatly deposited in tin cases.
Mr. Foushee (of Henrico) from the committee of claims made the following report:
1. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that so much of the petition of John Bracken, as prays that a law may pass, refunding to him the interest of a debt, from the 8th of April, 1807, to the 29th of June last, contracted with the state of Virginia, for the purchase of land, commonly called "Secretary's Land," lying in the county of James City, from commissioners appointed for that purpose, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, that so much of the other part of the said petition, as prays that the expenses of the survey of the said land, be defrayed by the public treasury, be rejected.
3. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Samuel Franklin and Stephen Watts, inspectors of tobacco at Candler's warehouse, in the city of Amherst, praying for an increase of their salaries, so as to place them on a footing with the other inspectors in their neighbourhood, is reasonable.
4. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Philip Briscoe, John Horner and John Horner, Jr., praying that they may be relieved from a judgment obtained by the commonwealth, in the district court of Winchester, against them, as securities for the first premium of William Horner before the said district court, to answer the charge of grand larceny, existed against him, the said William, who was before the time of his delivery afterwards in custody upon a second charge, broke jail, and made his escape from a guard, stationed around the same, is reasonable.
The 1st, 2d, 3d and 4th resolutions being severally read a second time, were on the question put thereupon, agreed to by the house.
Ordered , That bills be brought in pursuant to the 1st, 3d and 4th resolutions, and that the committee of claims do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Coleman presented, from the committee for courts of justice, a bill, "Incorporating trustees of Center-ville Academy."
A bill, "Vesting in Elizabeth Michael, the right of the commonwealth to a certain tract of land therein mentioned;" and,
A bill, "Allowing to the court of Monongalia county, a further time for settling fully with the commissioners appointed for opening a road from Morgan-Town to Grave Creek;" which bills were received, and ordered to be laid upon the table.
Ordered , That leave be given to bring in a bill, "To alter the days for holding courts in the county of Wood;" and that Messrs. Beeson, Tavenor, Thompson, Smith (of Wythe) and Beane, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered , That leave be given to bring in a bill, "Altering the time of holding courts in Mecklenburg county;" and that Messrs. Walker, Pegram, Goodwin, Wooding and T. Robinson, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered , That leave be given to bring in a bill, "Explanatory of the act entitled an act concerning the election of members of the General Assembly;" and that Messrs. Blake, Payne (of Monongalia) Willis, Slaughter and Noland, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered , That leave be given to bring in a bill, "To amend an act, to amend an act, to continue and amend an act, for further continuing and amending the act entitled an act for reducing into one the several acts concerning executions, and for the relief of insolvent debtors;" and that Messrs. Payne (of Monongalia) Breckenridge, W. Foushee, Dade, Smyth (of Wythe) and Garland, do prepare and bring in the same.
Monday, Dec. 23.
An engrossed bill, "To continue and amend an act concerning the James river company," was read a third time; and passed.
A bill, "Incorporating the trustees of a free school or schools in King George county."
A bill, "To authorise the cutting of drains in Northampton county;"
A bill, "Concerning the road from the upper navigation of Kanawha, to the upper navigation of James river," were severally read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
The Speaker laid before the house, a letter from the Governor, covering a letter from the Governor of Vermont, enclosing a resolution of the Legislature of that state, proposing an amendment to the constitution of the United States. Also a letter from the deputy adjutant general, enclosing the annual return of the militia of this commonwealth; which letter with the documents accompanying it being read on motion, Ordered , that so much of the said communication with the accompanying documents, as relates to the amendment proposed to the constitution of the United States, by the legislature of Vermont, be referred to the committee of the whole house, to which was referred the resolutions proposing certain amendments to the constitution of the U. States.
On motion, Ordered , That so much of the said communication, as relates to the militia of this commonwealth, be referred to the committee appointed to enquire into the militia laws of this commonwealth.
On motion, Ordered , that the Governor's letter be laid upon the table.
A bill "Authorising John Wimbley, to erect a dam across Banister river," was read a second time, and on motion, Ordered , To be referred to Messrs. Wooding, White, Sandford, Spragins, Johnston, (of Prince Edward) and Clarke.
Mr. Preston presented according to order, a bill, "To organise and establish a superior court of law and equity, in each county of this commonwealth;" which was received and read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time;
On motion, Ordered , That the said bill be now read a second time; and was on motion, Ordered , To be committed to a committee of the whole house, on the state of the commonwealth.
On motion, Ordered , That 250 copies of the said bill, be printed for the use of
the Members of the General Assembly. On motion, Ordered , That 250 copies of the report of the Superintendent of the Manufactory of Arms, be printed for the use of the Members of the General Assembly.
Mr. Johnston, (of P. E.) presented from the committee for courts of justice, a bill, "Establishing a toll gate in the county of Rockbridge, on the road leading through White's gap, in the South mountain."
Mr. Coleman presented from the committee for courts of justice, a bill, "Providing for the election of trustees of the town of Suffolk, for the purposes therein mentioned."
Mr. Johnston, (of P. E.) presented from the committee for courts of justice, a bill, "Authorising an appropriation of part of the money arising from the sale of the Glebe of Norborne Parish;" and
A bill, "Legalizing certain appointments made by the court of Goochland county, of processioners, and also of superintendents of overseers of the poor;" which bills were received and read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Mr. Foushee, from the committee of claims, presented the following report:
1. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of Geo. Douglas, praying that he may be allowed the duplicate of a lost certificate, amounting to ninety-one dollars and fifty-six cents with interest, which was bequeathed to him by his mother Margaret Douglas, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of Daniel Leet, stating, that he has never received three years interest on 673 dollars and 25 cents, the amount of a certificate which he has never transferred; that he was an inhabitant of the state of Pennsylvania, and ignorant of the law passed the 28th of January, 1802, which affected such claims; and praying that he may be allowed the same, is reasonable.
3. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of Thomas Harris, praying for an increase of his pension, and also, for a portion of land appropriated for the soldiers, who served in the revolutionary war, is reasonable.
4. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of David Craig, praying to be indemnified for the loss of a horse, which was pressed by, and died in the service of the commonwealth, is reasonable.
5. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of John H. Allen, praying the legislature to relieve him from a fine of thirty dollars, imposed by the District court of Williamsburg, for not attending the said court as a witness, summoned on behalf of the commonwealth, against James Taylor, is reasonable.
6. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of Hugh Wallace, praying the legislature would increase his pension, or allow him to retail spirituous liquors without paying for a licence, be rejected.
7. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, That the petition of John Cooper, praying the legislature to relieve him from the damages inflicted on him, amounting to 44 dollars and 16 cents, by a judgment of the General court in November last, for failing, in due time, to pay into the treasury, the revenue tax for the county of Elizabeth City, for the year 1806, be rejected.
The said resolutions being read a second time, were agreed to by the house, except the last, which was on motion, Ordered to be laid upon the table.
Ordered , That bills be brought pursuant to the 1st, 2d, 3d, 4th and 5th resolutions, and that the committee of claims do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Johnston, (of P. E.) from the committee of propositions and grievances made the following report:
1. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Kanawha, praying that all that part of the said county contained within the following bounds, to wit: Beginning at the corner of Mason county, in Tease's Valley, thence a direct line to the mouth of the Spruce Fork of Coal river, thence up said Fork, to where the line of Giles county crosses it, thence with said line to the line of Fazwell county, and with said line to the Tug Fork of Sandy, and down the same to its conflux with Ohio river, thence up the same to the mouth of Little Guyandotte in Mason county, and with the Mason line to the beginning, may form one separate and distinct county, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Edmund Tate, of the county of Campbell, praying that he may be authorised by law, to erect a toll bridge across Black Water Creek, is reasonable.
The first resolution being read a second time, a motion was made to amend the same, by striking out at the end thereof, the words "is reasonable" and inserting in lieu of them, the words "be rejected"; and the question being put on the proposed amendment, it passed in the negative.
The question being then put on the resolution as reported, it was agreed to by the house.
The 2d resolution being read a second time, was agreed to by the house.
Ordered , That bills be brought pursuant to the said resolutions, and that the committee of propositions and grievances, do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Johnston, (of P. E.) from the committee for courts of justice, made the following report:
1. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the memorial William W. Hening, praying that an act may pass, giving authenticity to a publication proposed to be made by him, of certain laws of this commonwealth, and proposing that a subscription may be authorised by the legislature for so many copies thereof as may enable the memorialist to complete the work, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry inhabitants of Amherst county, praying that an act may pass annexing the said county to the judicial district, for which a superior court of chancery is directed to be held at Staunton, is reasonable.
3. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Reuben Crafford and Anne his wife, praying that the right of the commonwealth to a small tract of land, which escheated to the commonwealth, by the death of a certain David Davis, may be vested in the petitioners, the said Anne being the nearest of kin in this country, to the said Davis, at the time of his death, is reasonable.
The said resolutions being read a second time, were agreed to by the house.
Ordered , That bills be brought in pursuant thereto, and that the committee for courts of justice, do prepare and bring in the same.
Ordered , That leave be given to bring in a bill, "To amend an act, providing for the poor, and declaring who shall be deemed vagrants, and that Messrs. Deaton, Read, Hunton, Slaughter, Baytop, Crutchfield and Pegram, do prepare and bring in the same.
The following petitions, which were heretofore laid upon the table, were taken up and read, to wit:
A petition of David Hunter, clerk of Berkeley court, on behalf of the said court, praying the passage of a law, authorising an appropriation of certain money arising from the sale of a glebe in Jefferson county, (part of which money belongs to the county of Berkeley,) to the use of the poor of said county.
Also, a petition of Anne F. Irvine, administratrix of Walter Irvine, dec., and guardian of his children, praying the passage of a law, authorising the sale of certain real estate, of which said Walter, died possessed.
Also a petition of sundry inhabitants of the town of Petersburg, praying the passage of a law, to increase the number of magistrates in the said town.
Ordered , that the said petitions be referred to the committee for courts of justice.
A petition of Joseph C. Baldwin, and Cyrus B. Baldwin, praying that the hands employed in their cotton and wool factories, may be exempted from militia duty;
Ordered , that the said petition be referred to the committee appointed to enquire into the militia laws of this commonwealth.
Tuesday, December 29.
Ordered , That Mr. Youngusband be added to the committee of propositions, & grievances and claims, and Mr. Egleton to the committee of claims.
A communication from the Senate by their clerk.
The Senate have passed the bill, "Authorising the counties of Caroline and Hanover, to convert the bridge at Littlepage's, across Pamunkey river into a toll bridge," with amendments, to which they request the concurrence of the House of Delegates.
The house proceeded to consider the said amendments; and the same being twice read, were agreed to by the house.
An engrossed bill, "Incorporating the trustees of a free school or schools in King George county," was read a third time and passed.
An engrossed bill, "To authorise the cutting of drains in Northampton county," was read a third time and several blanks therein filled up, and the bill passed.
An engrossed bill concerning the road from the upper navigation of Kanawha, to the upper navigation of James river, was read a third time and several blanks therein filled up, and the bill passed.
A bill providing for the election of trustees for the town of Suffolk, for the purposes therein mentioned;
A bill authorising an appropriation of part of the money arising from the sale of the Glebe land of Norborne parish—and a bill legalizing certain appointments made by the court of Goochland county of processioners, and also of superintendents of the elections of overseers of the poor; were severally read a second time, and ordered to be engrossed and read a third time.
A bill establishing a toll-gate in the county of Rockbridge, on the road leading thro' White's gap in the South mountain, was read a second time, and amended at the clerk's table, and as amended, ordered to be laid upon the table.
Mr. Breckenridge (of Hanover) presented according to order, a bill concerning the Chancery Court for the Richmond district.
Mr. Johnston (of P. Edward) presented from the committee of propositions and grievances, a bill, authorising John M. Syne to erect a toll bridge across Pamunkey river; a bill, concerning Wm. M'Kay; a bill, concerning the Potomac Company; a bill, granting further time to complete Mill Dams across Monongalia river; and a bill, concerning the Little River Turnpike Company.
Mr. Johnston (of P. Edward) presented from the committee for Courts of Justice, a bill, divorcing Charles Bosher from his wife Susanna; a bill, vesting in Henry J. Arnold a certain lot of ground whereof Wm. F. Ast died seized; and a bill, authorising Wm. W. Hening to publish an edition of certain laws of this commonwealth, and for other purposes—and
Mr. Dutton presented according to order, a bill, "To amend an act providing for the poor, and declaring who shall be deemed vagrants;" which bills were received and read the first time, and ordered to be read a second time.
Sundry bills which lay on the table, were taken up and read the first time and ordered to be read a second time.
A report from the committee for courts of justice which lay on the table was taken up and read the following words:
1. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the petition of James Semple and Joanna his wife, praying that the right of the commonwealth to certain lots and lands lying within, and adjoining to, that part of Petersburg called Blandford, and whereof David Black the younger, died seized, under the age of twenty one years, may be vested in the petitioners, the said Joanna being the next of kin within the United States to the said David, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry persons, praying that an act may pass appointing trustees of an academy established for
the instruction of females, in the town of Lexington, and vesting the said trustees with proper powers for managing the said institution, is reasonable.
3. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the petition of John H. Saunders, praying that an act may pass authorising a sale of the glebe of Southam parish in the county of Powhatan, whereof he is the incumbent, and directing that the interest of the money arising by such sale, may be paid to the petitioners, is reasonable.
4. Resolved , that it is the opinion of this committee, that the memorial of Archibald McCall, on behalf of himself, and of the other heirs and legal representatives of his father Archibald McCall, dec'd, praying, that on payment of the arrearages of taxes due on certain lands held by them, they may be relieved against the penalty and forfeiture incurred by the non-payment of the said taxes, is reasonable.
The 1st, 2d and 3d resolutions being read a second time were agreed to by the house. —The 4th resolution being read a second time was on motion, ordered to be laid upon the table.
Ordered , that bills be bro't in pursuant to the 1st, 2d and 3d resolutions, and that the committee for courts of justice do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. Johnston (of P. Edward) from the committee of propositions and grievances, made the following report:
1. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Warwick, praying that the seat of justice for the said county, may be removed to Stony run within the said county, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry other inhabitants of the county of Warwick in opposition thereto, be rejected.
3. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Brooke, praying that a law may pass incorporating a company to establish a turnpike road from Charlestown on the Ohio river, to the state line of Pennsylvania and Virginia at or near the farm of Major Francis McGuire on the road to Washington, is reasonable.
4. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of sundry inhabitants of the county of Spotsylvania, praying that a law may pass incorporating a company to establish a turnpike road from Fredericksburg to the Blue Ridge, is reasonable.
Ordered , that bills be bro't in pursuant to the 1st, 3d and 4th resolutions and that the committee of propositions and grievances do prepare and bring in the same.
Mr. W. Foushee, from the committee of claims, made the following report:
1. Resolved , as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Nathaniel Fox and Leonard Hill, praying that a law may pass suspending the issuing of an execution on a judgment obtained against them, in the general court on the 11th of June 1804, as securities of James Primm, late sheriff of the county of Stafford, for
be sooner recovered from the estate of George Brent, dec'd. to whom it was paid, whilst he as coroner of the said county, held an execution against the said sheriff for the amount of the judgment aforesaid, is reasonable.
2. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Thos. Davenport late high sheriff of the county of Halifax, praying that the sum of 161 dollars and 85 cents overpaid by him into the public treasury, on account of militia fines, may be refunded; be rejected.
3. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Edward Jackson, praying that he may be allowed to receive from the public treasury, the sum of 225 dollars, out of the arrearages of taxes, which he was authorised by law to receive, of the sheriff of Harrison county, for opening a road from the Mason county line to George Connelly's on a Pike Creek; of which said arrearages, the sum of 754 dollars and 16 cents have been paid by the said sheriff into the public treasury; and such other additional sum as the legislature may deem a sufficient compensation for his labor and trouble, is reasonable.
4. Resolved , also, as the opinion of this committee, that the petition of Patsy Oliver, stating that her husband Ackalls Oliver, in an affray, when intoxicated, unfortunately killed a man by the name of Joseph Goldsdon, and fled from this state; that the coroner of the county of Halifax has entered upon and taken possession of his property, both real and personal; and praying the legislature would pass a law releasing the said property to her children and herself, is reasonable.
The said resolutions being read a second time, were agreed to by the house.
The 1st resolution being read a second time, a motion was made to amend the same by striking out at the end thereof the words "is reasonable;" and inserting in lieu of them the words "be rejected;" and the question being put on the proposed amendment, it passed in the negative. —The question being then put on the resolution as reported, it was agreed to by the house.
The 2d resolution being read a second time, a motion was made to amend the same by striking out at the end thereof the words "be rejected," and inserting in lieu thereof the words "is reasonable;" and the question being put on the proposed amendment, it passed in the negative. The question being then put on the resolution as reported, it was agreed to by the house.
The 3d and 4th resolutions being read a second time, were agreed to by the house.
Ordered , that bills be bro't in pursuant to the 1st, 3d & 4th resolutions, and that the committee of claims do prepare and bring in the same.
A petition of Jane Spencer, which lay on the table, was taken up and read, and referred to the committee of claims.
A petition of Sarah Humphreys, which lay on the table, was taken up and read; and ordered to be laid upon the table.
Ordered , that a committee be appointed to examine the enrolled bills; and a committee was appointed of Messrs. Lightfoot Baytop, Coleman, Cheatham, Reeder, Watts, White, Slaughter, Jones (of Warwick) Anderson, Daniel, Read, Congleton, Joynes, Upshur and Jones (of Gloucester.)
CHARLESTON, Dec. 22.
The ship Perseverance , capt. Goss, arrived at this port yesterday in 37 days from Liverpool. We have only been able to procure London papers to the 7th November, by this arrival. The ship sailed from Liverpool on the 13th November, and we learn, verbally, from the captain and passengers, that the mail of that morning from London, brought the highly interesting intelligence of a Proclamation having been issued by the British Government, authorising the capture of all Neutral Vessels bound to the Ports of the enemies of Great-Britain. This Proclamation was intended as a countervailing project to the Blockading Decree of Bonaparte. It is also stated, that the Proclamation allows neutral vessels to proceed to enemies ports, in case they shall first touch at a port in Great-Britain, and from thence clear out for the port of their destination. —Capt. Goss endeavored to obtain a copy of this Proclamation, but could not.
Business was completely at a stand in England—Upland cotton had been sold at 8d. a lb. per lb.
Address to the President of the United States, agreed to by the General Assembly of North Carolina on the 11th inst. —In the Senate, Yeas 47—Nays 11—In the House of Commons, Yeas 83—Nays 35.
To THOMAS JEFFERSON, President of the United States.
SIR, THE General Assembly of the State of North Carolina, convened at a moment when the Independence of their Country, on whose welfare they feel, and are on all occasions ready to manifest the liveliest solicitude, is attacked; when their rights are invaded, their citizens seized, their property plundered, and their remonstrances disregarded, by a nation uniformly and notoriously hostile, and who appeals only to power to justify her conduct:—When the Union of these States, which they sincerely desire may be perpetual, is endangered by the machinations of a disappointed man and his adherents, who have sought to subvert, because they could not direct the measures of government; they feel it their duty to assure you, Sir, of their entire approbation of those measures which have been pursued for the defence and interest of their common country.
We will not, Sir, recount the many benefits which you have borne to your country from foreign courts, whilst engaged in the cause of Freedom: We will not review the eminent advantages derived from your talents and virtues, whilst employed in high and responsible offices at home; nor will the limits of an address permit us to enumerate the blessings which have flowed from the administration of our public affairs since the memorable period of 1801. We will only say, that in whatever point of view we regard you, whether in private or public life, we perceive such uniformity of conduct, such firmness of character, such an entire resignation on the one hand, and so great ability to act on the other, that we have abundant reason to rejoice, that in a person called to preside in the councils of his country, the Statesman, Philosopher and Patriot are so happily and conspicuously united.
Although we are sensible that to you, Sir, whose time and talents have been entirely devoted to your country's good, the pleasures of domestic ease and retirement, from the busy scenes of life, would now be particularly inviting; yet when we reflect that the period is probably near at hand, when the exercise of your patriotic virtues will be particularly important to your country, perhaps essential to its preservation, we cannot forbear most earnestly to solicit, that, at the next presidential election, you will not deny your countrymen the pleasure of again selecting you for the discharge of those important duties, for the performance of which you appear so eminently qualified. And may that Being who regulates the affairs of men below, when the period of our final separation shall arrive, receive you into those mansions of bliss, reserved for those who have deserved well.
(CIRCULAR.)
Commercial Agency of the United States of America.
NANTES, October 11. 1807.
To the Masters of American vessels now in the port of Nantes.
GENTLEMEN, BEING instructed this day, by his Excellency Gen. Armstrong, Minister Plenipotentiary of the United States at Paris, that he has reason to deem it probable, that the English ships of war and cruisers will be let loose on such part of our commerce with this country, Spain, Holland, &c. as may be found within their reach, he therefore deems it prudent, and I hereby advise you, that you should return as soon as possible to the United States.
I am, Gentlemen, with much respect, Your Ob't. Serv't.
W. B. PATTERSON.
In another circular letter, dated October 30, the Consul mentions his having received advices from Gen. Armstrong, dated Oct. 22d, and again urges the departure of all American vessels, on the same ground.
Education.
A GENTLEMAN who has been a Private Tutor for several years, wishes to engage himself in a respectable family in the country—the salary will be no object provided the situation is healthy, and the accommodations agreeable.
January 1, 1808. N. B. Letters addressed to the Rev. John D. Blair, Richmond, post paid, will be duly attended to.
By virtue of the authority vested in me by Joseph W. Robinson, by deed of trust, bearing date the 31st day of January, 1807, recorded in the General Court office, I shall proceed to sell, to the highest bidder, for cash, on Saturday the 16th January next, at Brooks's Tavern, in the town of Manchester, one NEGRO BOY named Ned, to comply with the purposes of the said trust. JESSE MIX. December 31, 1807.

Virginia Argus.
RICHMOND:
FRIDAY, JANUARY 1, 1803.
Extract of a letter from a member of Congress, dated Washington City, December 29th, 1802.
"There is at present nothing very important occupying the immediate attention of Congress. Mr. Rose has not arrived—nor do I suppose his arrival will be of any avail unless he comes with authority to take up the subject of impressments generally. War with England appears to be inevitable. I trust our State Legislature will not adjourn without providing supply for an increase in the manufactory of arms."
Yesterday a Bill passed both houses of the General Assembly, suspending the operation of the Act of the last session for abolishing the Public Guard, until the 20th day of January, 1803. It is supposed that previous to that time, another law will be passed for further continuing the guard on its present footing, or establishing another on a new organization, to make it more useful to the public.
Yesterday the Hon. ALEXANDER McRAE was again unanimously re-elected President of the Council of State, and of course Lieutenant Governor of this Commonwealth for the ensuing year.
To the Editor of the Virginia Argus.
IN my last address to you I mentioned the importance of a spirit of union among the republican party, in making the selection of a proper character to be put in nomination for the office of President of the United States. I will now make a few observations concerning the means by observations concerning the means by which that union, so truly desirable, may be obtained.
Only two methods exist of proposing persons to be voted for by the electors; first, by individuals (printers of newspapers, or others,) thro' the medium of the press; secondly, by voluntary associations of individuals. I say only two methods; because I conceive that caucuses of congress or of the state legislatures are nothing more than voluntary associations, in which the members act not in their official or legislative, but in their private capacity.
If neither of these methods were adopted of bringing forward to the notice of the public any particular persons, no discussion could take place concerning the comparative merits of the candidates; the minds of the people would be uninformed, and their sentiments totally unascertained on the subject. Of course there could be no concert or union, except by accident; and the electors would vote like an arbitrary Venetian Senate or Turkish Divan, without any responsibility to their constituents. To one or the other, therefore, of the methods I have mentioned, recourse must be had.
The first appears to be the best in some respects. The recommendations by individuals, unconnected with each other, are less liable to be obtained by intrigue or improper influence, than those which are made by caucuses or self-constituted assemblies; and, being supported only by the strength of their arguments, can do no harm, but may be productive of great good, by enlightening and directing the public mind. Such recommendations are therefore highly justifiable and useful, when made in a candid and temperate manner, and ought never to be neglected or discouraged. Nevertheless, they are totally inadequate to the object of ascertaining the will of the majority of the people, or of accomplishing union between the members of a party, for the purpose of concurring in promoting the general good, instead of consulting their own separate interests and affections, or their personal partialities. Where a great variety of recommendations are made by individuals, and many arguments are urged in favor of contending candidates, data are indeed furnished, by which the discriminating mind is the better enabled to make a judicious choice. Still, however, there can be no union or concurrence of minds, unless such union or concurrence be accidental, or unless (as was the case with the late General Washington) some one character is so pre-eminent in qualifications and popular that no competition with him can be expected. Wherever the latter is not the case (which must rarely happen) no agreement to support any one individual can take place, except by the means of associations for the purpose of conferring together, and of adopting as the result of the conference, a resolution to that effect.
It may be said that agreements or resolutions of this nature are improper and corrupt, as sacrificing that independence of sentiment which men of integrity and republican principles ought ever to preserve. I admit that, if they were carried to that length, they would be extremely censurable. If, for example, a caucus should be formed (if that were possible) of Federalists and Republicans, or of men radically opposed in political opinions, it would be absurd for the company to agree that the will of the majority should bind the minority. The consciences of the latter ought not to permit them to acquiesce in measures which their judgments would disapprove. So, even where the meeting consists altogether of Republicans, yet if any one of them differed from the rest in his opinion concerning any particular candidate, and conceived him to be a weak, a wicked, or a dangerous character, it would be betraying the interests of his country for such person to surrender his objections to the influence of any majority, however great. It is therefore only the relinquishment of slight shades of difference between opinions to which consent should be given. No important principle ought by any means to be surrendered. But where the question is only between individuals whose republican principles are the same, whose integrity is undoubted, and whose abilities are nearly equal, it is perfectly proper for those who generally agree in their political creed, and have no hostility to either of the candidates, to
form a voluntary association, for the purpose of selecting one of them, and of agreeing jointly to support that one. In this there is no dereliction of integrity or independence; but merely a liberal sacrifice of selfish or personal partialities for the general advantage.
A caucus, therefore, or voluntary association of individuals agreeing to abide by the will of the majority, may on some occasions be resorted to with great propriety; and, on the present, I conceive, if the contest for the Presidential Chair should be between two such men as Madison and Monroe, a caucus is the only proper way of settling the difference, and uniting the republican party.
But of caucuses there are various descriptions. They may either consist of individuals not in public stations, or of members of the state legislatures, or of members of congress.
The last of these is, obviously, the best adapted to express the wishes of the majority of the people of the United States. Coming from all the different parts of the union, generally acquainted with and disposed to carry into effect the wishes of their constituents, the members of congress are better qualified than any other body of men whatsoever to make a wise choice of a character to be put in nomination for the office of president. They cannot be more interested to make an improper selection than other persons might be, and, if intrigue or artifice may corrupt or mislead them, it only proves that all human institutions are imperfect, and that nothing in which men are concerned is free from contamination.
If caucuses of private persons, or of the state legislatures, were adopted, as the means of selection, uncertainty and discord would be the necessary consequence.
The writer of this therefore concludes that, altho' the jealousy of the state legislatures may induce them to disapprove of the exercise by Congress of the power of nomination, it is certainly the best method that can be adopted; particularly on the present occasion; and the election of the person proposed by the majority of congress ought not to be opposed by any true republican, unless he has important objections to the character nominated; in which case he should still vote as his own judgment and conscience dictate.
Let us agree then, if either James Madison or James Monroe should be the character so selected, to yield our particular predilections for either of them, and, as good republicans and friends of our country, let this be our motto. "United we stand, divided we fall."
AGRICOLA.
LAW OF VIRGINIA.
General Assembly, begun and held at the Capitol in the City of Richmond, on Monday the 7th day of December, 1802.
An Act altering the sessions of the Court of Appeals, and for other purposes.
Sec. 1. BE it enacted by the General Assembly, that instead of the times appointed by law for the sessions of the court of appeals, the terms of the said court shall in future be held at the following times in every year, and continue the number of days herein after mentioned, unless the business before the said court be sooner done; the first shall commence on the first day of March and continue twenty-seven juridical days; the second shall commence on the fifteenth day of April and continue forty-four juridical days; and the third shall commence on the first day of October and continue fifty-five juridical days. When any day appointed for the commencement of a term shall be Sunday, such term shall commence on the succeeding day.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, that if from sickness or any other cause, a sufficient number of the judges to constitute a court shall not attend on the first day of any term, the said court shall stand adjourned from day to day for ten days successively, or until a sufficient number shall attend, and if that shall not happen before four o'clock of the tenth day, then the court shall stand adjourned, and all suits depending therein continued to the next court. And if during any session after a court shall have been constituted a sufficient number of judges to make a court, do not attend, there shall be no discontinuance of the term, but the court shall stand adjourned from day to day till a sufficient number shall attend provided that shall happen in ten days, and if it does not then the court and all suits therein depending shall stand adjourned to the first day of the succeeding term.
Sec. 3. So much of any act or acts, as is contrary to this act, shall be and is hereby repealed.
Sec. 4. This act shall commence in force from the passing thereof.
A rapid view was taken in our last paper of the nature and effects of the Embargo. As it is the strongest measure yet taken by the government, and from its very nature will be productive of interesting consequences, not only on the foreign world, but likewise on ourselves, it is of the first importance that the public should receive correct impressions upon it. For a time it will materially reduce the price of our produce, and enhance that of many foreign commodities. The latter circumstance will operate as some indemnity to our merchants for the suspension of their business; the former will, in a considerable degree, affect the interests of the farmer and planter. Fortunately, in this country, it is the latter class of citizens, who, from their numbers as well as their wealth, are the most able to bear a pressure. The season at which the embargo is laid is favorable to them. They will already have supplied themselves with most of the goods they will want for the ensuing winter, the crops of the last autumn will to a great extent have already found a market, and the principal exertions requisite for the next harvest will not be called for until the ensuing spring. This will alleviate, though it certainly will not supercede the effects of the measure. There will still remain occasion for much fortitude, perhaps for great patience.
Is the state of our affairs such as requires this sacrifice? Might not a resort to milder measures do as well? We confidently answer no; not only for the reasons
assigned in our last, but for other reasons. A crisis has arrived, that calls for some decided step. The national spirit is required. That spirit is invaluable. Increase of a war it is to lead us to conquest. By the vigor with which it shall wield the physical force of the country, it is to inspire us with unshaken confidence in our strength, and to appal our enemy. In our solemn appeal to the world, it is to silence forever the idle hope that flatters itself with the phantom, either that we are a divided people, or that our republican institutions have not energy enough to defend us, much less to inflict serious injury on our enemies. To dispel this illusion, in such an event there must cease to exist an inch of British ground on this continent.
The people having shown their spirit, the season has arrived for the government to sustain, second and direct it. To delay any longer to do this would be to jeopardize its existence. The crisis is not requiring war, still hoping, if not expecting peace, an embargo is the next best measure for maintaining the national tone. It will arm the nation. It will do more. It will arm the Executive government. It is an unequivocal, and efficient expression of confidence in the Executive; and gives the President a new weapon of negotiation—we say weapon of negotiation, for, in the present state of the world, even negotiation has ceased to be pacific. Without being backed by force it is an empty sound.
The embargo furnishes this weapon. The sword is not drawn from the scabbard, but it may be drawn at a moment's warning. By it, every member of the community will be sensibly impressed with the solemnity of the crisis, and will be prepared for events. The public will be impatient for a decision of the great interests depending. All will be anxious for a restoration of their ordinary pursuits. Our negotiator will be armed with the public sensibility. He will be constrained to require a definitive answer, and the whole nation will call upon him with one voice to require that this answer be prompt. The negotiator of a foreign nation, if his instructions be amicable, will himself perceive the necessity of a prompt and candid answer, and give it; and if hostile, the sooner the truth comes out the better.
This is exactly the result so long impatiently expected by the nation, a result, whose further protraction might be ruinous to our interests and derogatory to our character.
There are those who suppose that this step will be productive of incalculable commercial losses. I will certainly produce much inconvenience to the mercantile world. But it will not be unaccompanied with benefit. It will separate the wheat from the chaff. It will coerce the settlement of long standing and complicated accounts. The merchant, who has been fraudulently trading on another's capital, may sink. And will not this be just? Is the man an object of commiseration who, at such a moment, when all our resources ought to be carefully husbanded for the day of danger, is base enough to risk not only his own property, for he has none to risk, but that of another more cautious than himself, and that too, which if lost, is so much lost to the nation, and so much gained by our enemy? Can any legal measure be too strong for such a man; one, who to personal dishonesty adds a total destitution of patriotism; one, who to promote his own interest, can behold with indifference the wreck of his friend's fortune, and the disgrace or ruin of his country? If there is in the United States such a class of men, the sooner they are called to account the better, and the sooner they are arrested in their injustice the happier for the honest part of the community. As to the solid, honest traders, it is a fact that the greater part of them have long contemplated the lowering aspect of the horizon, and have wisely and honorably, by withdrawing their property from the ocean, determined to await the issue of events. This body of men, and we hope it includes a great majority of our merchants, will approve the embargo.
We believe it will be a popular measure with all classes. We are certain that the farmer, the planter and the mechanic will approve it from the security it offers to the public interests; and if the merchants be as honest and enlightened, as we trust they are, they will perceive the indissoluble connection between their solid and permanent prosperity and the general welfare. Facts too attest the general expectation that this measure would be resorted to by the government; no sooner was the late news received than the public prints of different political characters, and in different parts of the union demanded an embargo; and no sooner were the doors of Congress closed, than it became the universal impression that this measure was about to be taken. In proof of this take the following extract from the Gazette of the United States, a paper decidedly federal, of the 21st inst.
"This is, therefore, no time to stand upon punctilio or to adopt provoking and enfeebling regulations. The necessity of the case points out its remedy. We have it in our hands. Let an embargo be laid upon all our shipping, till they can venture out with a chance of safety. Who knows but that both our enemies (for such I reckon them both) would then agree to except us from their tyrannical interdicts, for the general benefit of indirect communication; and that mutual privilege be thus obtained, by fair means, which we are utterly incompetent to force."
"An embargo is a measure that will give the government an opportunity of feeling the pulse of the people, before they commit themselves; and that will manifest our determination not to submit to every belligerent imposition as unequivocally as our boldest efforts at direct retaliation."
(Nat. Intel.)
It is disgusting to hear the moon-struck scoundrels of Britain, give her last measures of hostility against commerce, the name of "retribution!"
It will not be denied by any one but hardened and unbending falsifiers, that Britain has for many years, pursued a system of intrigue and coercion, tending to monopolize the advantages of commerce. She has styled herself Mistress of the Ocean, and
professed to allow such advantages as were left to the rest of the world, as a matter of "special grace." It was she that commenced hostility upon the commercial interests of all the world, and now, when a rival power has gained strength enough to curtail her monopoly (which power only is the real retaliator) this curtailment is held up as an aggression; and Britain's aggravated repetition of her former crimes is called retribution! Should a man say, "I struck John, he struck back, and then I retaliated upon him," it would be thought rather a bull.
There are knaves among us, who do not wish things to appear in their proper light, and there are indolent men who are careless whether they come at the truth or not.
Democritus.
It is said, with much emphasis, by some of our neighbors, Bonaparte will have no neutrality.
Pray tell us if this was not known when Jackson made his demand at Copenhagen? Did not his Declaration go to the same length?
And pray tell us again, if there was no neutrality in respect to Britain; if all were for or against her, were they not of course for or against her enemy?
Why is a thing brought up as new, which was officially declared by the British early in August.
A writer in the U. States Gazette says—We ought to have at least ten ships of the line; then foreign powers would be deterred from molesting us.
Will that writer be so good as to inform the world, why the 16 Danish ships of the line, and a greater number of frigates and smaller armed vessels, did not deter the British from molesting Denmark.
It is curious to observe the assurance with which these men continue to repeat their old dogmas, while facts, glaring as day itself, are constantly rising to show their fallacy. The Tories have for a long time kept up the cry for a few ships of the line and frigates; which they said would deter nations from hostility against us. The villainous assault upon Copenhagen where the whole Danish fleet answered no purpose on earth but to swell the insolent triumph of Great Britain, one would think sufficient to stop their mouths on this subject. But, with hardened impudence, they continue as if no such thing had happened, to declare that a few ships of the line would ensure the safety of the country!
Let any candid man recur to the motives which evidently actuate C. Britain at this time, according to her own avowal, and her conduct in general; and he cannot resist the conviction, that if we had ten ships of the line, Britain, instead of negotiating till this time, would have assaulted our citadel as long before now.
The Pacific Tories, who are all of a sudden, full of their cowardly whinings about the horrors of war—who profess now to hate war from principle, tell us we might have avoided it—and how? Why by going to war with France long ago!!
It is by no means disputed, that if we had gone to war with the enemy of Britain several years ago, if we had furnished England voluntary with men and supplies, she would not have taken them by force! But how this going to war with France would have preserved to us the blessings of peace we cannot readily comprehend!
NEW Periodical Work. JUST RECEIVED AT THIS OFFICE, Volume I. of the American Register, OR GENERAL REPOSITORY of History, Politics, and Science, FOR 1806.....7. Published at Philadelphia, by Conrad & Co.
Notice!! THE Subscriber purposes leaving this City in the course of a few days, has determined to dispose of the whole or any part of his STOCK, now remaining on hand, at a very reduced price—which consists of a Large and Substantial Assortment of Mahogany Furniture, Mattresses of all kinds and sizes, Paper Hangings, Window Blinds, Fringes, Tassels, Cords, &c. &c. Richmond Jan. 1, 1803. W. Haight. N. B.—Those who feel inclined to purchase, will apply opposite the City Tavern, on the Main Street. W. H.
By Virtue of a deed of trust executed to us by Matthew Baker, of Powhatan county, the 6th day of April, 1807, we the Subscribers, have proceeded to sell, for Cash, on Saturday, the 10th day of January next, at Daniel Michaux's Tavern, a
Tract of Land, In the aforesaid county, containing one hundred and sixty two acres, lying on Swift Creek, on each side of the road, leading from Genitoes to the Beckingham road and adjoining the lands of Arthur Sullett and William W. Atkinson, to satisfy Charles Moseley the sum mentioned in the said deed, and the expense of carrying the same into effect. Francis Lewis, } Trustees Thos. Watkins, } Powhatan, Dec. 30, 1802. W. S.
THE subscriber received from the Post Office on the 24th inst., a note dated 22d Nov. 1807, in these words, viz—The enclosed is supposed to have been dropped by C. Purcell, and that R. Campbell ought to see it. The enclosure alluded to is a letter from "A. C." addressed to "Mr. Charles Purcell," and dated the 11th November. The person who was kind enough to render this favor will essentially contribute to the cause of justice, by avowing his name to the subscriber, for the sole purpose of establishing the fact, as to the manner of his becoming possessed of that enclosure, so important in explaining other. ROBERT CAMPBELL. Richmond, 25th Dec. 1807. 4t
STRAYED, From the subscriber last summer, a large white buffalo COW; her head, neck and shoulders mostly black and made very heavy by sucking suckers herself; her ear mark not recalled. Whoever will give information of, or bring her to me will be rewarded for their trouble. A FOSTER. Richmond, 31st Dec. 1807. 3t
Postscript.
NORFOLK, DEC. 28.
The British frigate Statura, capt. Bromley, having on board his excellency G. H. Rose, Envoy extraordinary from Great Britain to the United States, arrived in Hampton Roads on Saturday.
We understand from very respectable authority that orders have been recently issued to all naval commanders in the service of the United States directing that they are to discharge from under their respective commands all foreign seamen, which they shall be satisfied are deserters from any foreign service. It is we presume, in consequence of these orders that two men have been discharged from the Chesapeake within a few days past, one a British seaman and the other the French seaman who was particularly noticed by us a short time since.
We are happy to perceive that our government is sensible that the employment of deserters from foreign service is wrong, and although this order cannot prevent the mischief which has happened, it may be the means of preventing further mischief.
It is true the present order does not authorize the delivery of the seamen to the officer demanding them, it however goes far enough as relates to the conduct of the American officer. The delivery of deserters to the nation they belong to is a matter of special negotiation or legislative authority. In this state it would be on the teeth of a positive penal statute.
We venture to assert that if Lieut. Sinclair had been authorized to discharge the deserters from the Halifax British ship of war, that our country should not have been in the very critical situation in which she is placed. [Ledger.]
The brig Sumner, captain Brown, of this port, whose capture by a French privateer we noticed some time since, has at length been heard from. The supercargo returned here on Wednesday last. This vessel was carried into Omoa, a port on the Spanish Main, and there condemned with her cargo for a breach of Bonaparte's blockade, of the 21st November. The Sumner was from Jamaica bound to this port. So much for "Je t'espere."
WASHINGTON CITY, DEC. 28. We have had the pleasure of conversing with a respectable and intelligent gentleman just arrived from Lexington. He states that the prevailing opinion at the English settlements in that neighborhood is that there will be a war between this country and Great Britain. In confirmation of this opinion he states that there are now at Fort Amherstburg, a British fort about 18 miles from Detroit, at least 2,000 Indians, almost exclusively warriors. That they are all armed, & supplied at the expense of the British, and with great liberality; that their arms are guns, rifles and tomahawks; and that since August there has been constantly there between 2 and 3,000. In case of war, it is expected that, under the auspices of the British, a general massacre will take place, for which they are held in readiness, and from which none but those within the fort can expect to escape. Should such a notorious measure be resorted to, our countrymen may rest assured that a dreadful vengeance will be taken on its perpetrators. —Nat. Intel.
The Western World, of Frankfort, Kentucky announces the death of THOMAS T. DAVIS, a Judge of the Indiana Territory, and formerly Representative in Congress from the state of Kentucky.
By virtue of a deed of trust executed to Daniel Brantley to the subscribers on the 6th of June, 1805 and now in the office of the county court of Chesterfield; we shall proceed to sell to the highest bidder for cash at Brantley's tavern in the town of Manchester, on Saturday the 16th of January next, the TRACT OF LAND therein mentioned, containing by a late survey eighty eight and seven eighth acres, lying and being in the county of Chesterfield on Falling creek and bounded by the lands of William Short, Martin Baker, and the estate of William Fowler, dec in compliance with the purposes of the said trust.
THE TRUSTEES. December 31, 1807.
LUNENBURG October 6, 1807. James Smith & Pleasant Moon, merchants, and partners, acting under the name and title of Smith & Moon, complainants Against George Locke and William Locke, executors of the last will and testament of John Locke, deceased and Thomas Locke, defendants.
ON the motion of the complainants, by their counsel, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that the defendant Thomas Locke is not an inhabitant of this Commonwealth, it is therefore decreed and ordered, that unless he appear here on or before the 5th day of January next, and answer the bill of the complainants, that the same will be taken for confessed, and the matter thereof decreed accordingly, and that a copy of this order be inserted in one of the newspapers published in the town of Petersburg for two months successively, and posted at the front door of the courthouse of this county; and that the defendants George Locke and William Locke, executors of the last will and testament of John Locke, deceased, be restrained and enjoined from paying, conveying away or secreting any goods, chattels, money, legacies or bequests, which are now belonging or due, or which may hereafter belong or be due, to the said defendant Thomas Locke, until the further order of this court. A copy, Teste, WILLIAM H. TAYLOR, D. C.
Map of Virginia.
THE subscriber having been appointed agent for the Proprietors of Bishop MADISON's MAP OF VIRGINIA, for the city of Richmond, requests those subscribers who have not received their Maps, to apply to him at the Printing-Office and Book-Store of SAMUEL PERSADERS JUN, where they are ready for delivery.—He has also some earlier for Sale. JOHN W. PLEASANTS. December 4th, 1807. 2w

Advertisement. TO BE SOLD, at New-Market in Amherst County, on Thursday, the 1st day of Decem- ber, to the highest bidder, SUNDRY PRO- PERTY , belonging to the Estate of Hector Ca- bell, dec. viz: about 40 Negroes, several valua- ble work Horses, about 500 barrels of Corn, 4 or 500 bushels of Oats, a large quantity of Fod- der, and sundry other Articles too tedious to mention. The sale will continue from day to day until the whole is sold. The Negroes con- sist of Men, Women, Boys and Girls, and are uncommonly likely and valuable; a part of them will be sold, for one third Cash, one third in six months, and one third in twelve months; the others will be sold on a credit of six and twelve months. Bond with approved security, will be required, to carry interest from the date if not punctually paid, and a deed in trust on the pro- perty, to enforce punctual payment. The Horses, Corn, Oats, Fodder, &c. will be sold in Lots, to suit purchasers, on a credit of six and twelve months. Bond with approved se- curity to carry interest from the date if not punc- tually paid, will be required. Robert Rives, Adm'r Nov. 15th, 1807. 6w
W. HAIGHT, Has for sale, on the Main street, opposite the Old City Tavern, a large and superb assortment of the best made Mahogany Furniture, Paper Hangings, Mattresses of every description, Window Blinds, &c. &c. &c. all of which he will sell on the most reasonable terms, for cash or country produce. Richmond, Nov. 26, 1807. 2m
Land for Sale! PURSUANT to a deed of trust executed to the subscribers by John C. Miller, for the purpose of securing the payment of sundry debts therein mentioned; will be sold upon the first Monday in January, 1808, for cash upon the premises, a TRACT OF LAND , mentioned in said deed, lying upon the waters of Lockett's and Harris's creek, in the county of Prince Edward, and supposed to contain be- tween six and seven hundred acres. We shall make such title as is transferred to us by said Miller, saving all former encumbrances. The improvements upon this land are such as are usual upon plantation in this part of the country, but better fenced than usual. CHARLES WOODSON, } Trustees. JAMES MADISON, } Prince Edward, 16 Oct 1807. 10w
LAND In the state of Ohio—For Sale: THE subscriber wishes to SELL a valuable TRACT OF LAND , in the state of Ohio, containing 1,000 acres. This tract is of excel- lent quality, as the subscriber has understood from most respectable information. It lies on Deer creek, a branch of the Sciota, about 16 miles from Circleville, in a well settled neighborhood, and is very convenient to the trade of the Ohio. He will dispose of it for cash, or on a short credit, for no less negotiable at the Bank of Vir- ginia; or will exchange it for property in the city of Richmond. An unquestionable title, with general warranty, will be made to the purchaser. W. M. MUFOORD. Richmond, Sept. 24, 1807. tf
ADVERTISEMENTS. Just Received, a General Assortment of Dutch Bolting Cloth, Of a superior quality. Oct. 22, 1807. tf J. Darnsatt.
FOR HIRE the ensuing year. 2 Coopers, 2 Black-Smiths, 2 Carpenters, 2 Male House Servants, one of them a tolerable Gardener and Carriage driver—5 able Labourers —2 Negro Women and a Negro Girl—4 apply to GEO. GREENHOW. December 23d, 1807. 11an.
A PROPOSAL, FOR PUBLISHING BY SUBSCRIPTION THE STUDIES OF NATURE, And other works of James Henry Bennet. By Dr. St. Pierre. Translated by Henry Hester, D. D. author of Sa- cred Biography, and Translator of the Works of Lavater. It will be printed in three handsome Octavo volumes, from the last London edition, em- bellished with five engravings, executed in the best manner, and be delivered to subscribers, hand- somely bound, price eight dollars. It will be put to press immediately and published in the month of March next. Subscriptions received at S. PLEASANT'S Printing Office and Book-Store. Dec. 3. wif
WANTED. A PERSON well qualified to act as a Bar- keeper, understanding the method of keep- ing accounts in that line, and one who will not be unwilling to do all the business that may rea- sonably be expected from this laborious calling. Any person inclined to engage in the above mentioned business, and qualified to discharge the duties as required above, will meet with an advantageous situation, on application to the printer, either personally or by line. Richmond, 17th December, 1807. 3w
ST. MARY'S COLLEGE GRAND LOTTERY, BALTIMORE. —Authorized by the General Assembly of the State of Maryland, the scheme of which Lottery is the most brilliant ever offered to the citizens of the United States, containing besides a large number of other good prizes, 1 Prize of 30,000 Dollars, 1 do. of 15,000 Dollars, 3 do. of 10,000 Dollars, 2 do. of 5,000 Dollars, 8 do. of 1,500 Dollars, 7 do. of 1,000 Dollars. Not two blanks to a prize, and the lowest prize twelve dollars. The scheme contains only 21500 tickets, 10000 of which are actually sold to a company of gentlemen in New York, to whom the managers have obligated themselves to com- mence the drawing in the city of Baltimore. On Thursday the 31st day of December next, And to draw 500 tickets per day. TICKETS & SHARES Are now selling in a variety of numbers and very rapidly at Ten and a half dollars each for a very short time, at G. & R. WAITE'S Truly fortunate Lottery Office, corner of Mark- et and Charles Street, Baltimore. The grandeur of the Scheme of the above Lottery, together with an assurance from the managers that it will positively commence draw- ing on the 31st day of December next, have been a sufficient inducement for the subscribers to come to the city of Baltimore for the express purpose of facilitating the sale of the tickets. One of the above firm will personally attend the drawing daily, to take down the num- bers correctly, as will also one of their clerks. The next New-York Lottery will not com- mence drawing till April next—Tickets of which Lottery may be had at Waite's Office, Maiden Lane, New York. N. B. Distant adventurers, accompanying their orders with Bank Notes of any description to either of Waite's Offices in Baltimore or New York, may have tickets and shares for- warded to any amount with the utmost punctu- ality, and the earliest advice sent them of their success. All prizes sold by G. & R. Waite will be paid by them.—A list of all prizes drawn will be sent to the printer of this paper, for the in- spection of adventurers. October 14th, 1807. 183m
For Sale, A Dwelling House, and Four Half-Acre Lots of Ground, in the Town of Manches- ter, as formerly advertised: On receiving a part in cash, I am disposed to give a con- siderable credit, for the balance of purchase, or I will take young Negroes at a fair valuation, and Land in the State of Ohio, Tennessee or Ken- tucky, on such terms as may be agreed on.—If the said property is not sold between now and Christmas, it will be leased to an approved tenant for a term of years. ARCHD CAMPBELL. Manchester, Nov 30, 1807. tf
20 Dollars Reward. RUN AWAY about the 8th May from Richmond, JACOB, a very black fellow, about six feet high, twenty-eight years old, handsome address and very artful, has several scars on his neck, and one or two, I believe, on his left cheek, re- sembling small pox pits, a weaver by trade, and left his batteau in the basin of the canal in the above city when he went off, at which time he broke open the store of a gentleman in Rich- mond and stole to a large amount, for which said gentleman has offered a reward of 50 dollars for apprehending said fellow (as I am informed) —he has a numerous acquaintance in the said city, the counties of Hanover and Caroline, in one of which he was raised, and where I expect he may be harbored. The above reward will be paid and all reasonable charges, for securing said fellow in any jail to get him, or delivered me in Best Creek, Buckingham, Virginia. Samuel Horsley. tf 1d
TO BE SOLD, ON Wednesday, the 6th day of January next, (if fair, if not the next fair day), at the late Dwelling House of Stephen George, dec. in Hen- rico county, about seven miles below Richmond, on the stage road leading to Williamsburg, to the highest bidder, on nine months' credit, for all sums above five dollars, upon the purchasers giving bond and approved security to carry in- terest from the date if not punctually paid—for all sums under, cash will be required. The HOUSEHOLD & KITCHEN FURNITURE, Crop of Corn, Fodder and Stuffs, Stock of ev- ery kind, Plantation Utensils, a valuable par- cel of Lumber, such as Plank & Scantling. At the same time and place, will be hired, for the ensuing year, from twenty to twenty five NE- GROES —the Land also will be rented and pos- session given immediately by the Executor. Henrico county, Dec. 4, 1807. tds N. B. All those having claims against the a- bove mentioned estate, are requested to bring them forward properly authenticated, and those indebted, to make immediate payment, as no in- dulgence can be given. Ex'tr.
House Servants. Wanted on HIRE, for the next year, TWO ACTIVE BOYS, Accustomed to wait in a house. Liberal wages will be given. Enquire of the printer. Dec. 14. 4w
WANTED. A PERSON well qualified to act as a Bar- keeper, understanding the method of keep- ing accounts in that line, and one who will not be unwilling to do all the business that may rea- sonably be expected from this laborious calling. Any person inclined to engage in the above mentioned business, and qualified to discharge the duties as required above, will meet with an advantageous situation, on application to the printer, either personally or by line. Richmond, 17th December, 1807. 3w
Evening Exhibition. At Mr. Mitchell's Buildings, nearly oppo- site the Market, Richmond. Mr. WOODS respectfully informs the public, that he has at much expense imported from Eu- rope a splendid Phantasmagoria, which will open to the public on this Evening, December 23th, and will be continued every evening, Sun- day evenings excepted. GRAND EXHIBITION OF THE Phantasmagoria; OR, GERMAN GHOSTS. Prepared on a large scale and on an improved plan, according to the patent of the celebrated Baron Philipstaal, of the Lyceum Strand, who was the original inventor of this very curious & philosophical combination of optical and mecha- nical illusions, which introduce the phantoms or apparitions of the dead or absent, in a way more completely illusory than has ever yet been wit- nessed; as the objects fairly originate in the air, and unfold themselves under various forms and sizes, such as the imagination has hitherto painted them. The Spectrology professes to expose the practices of artful impostors and exorcists; and to open the eyes of those, who, in these latter days, still foster belief in GHOSTS & DISMEMBERED SPIRITS. It will display the following Phantoms, &c. George Washington; Peace, with the Olive Branch; Justice with Sword and Balance; Li- berty with Staff & Cap; Mars the God of War; Lady Macbeth; Desdemona; Macbeth; the Tomb of Juliet; Maternal Affection; a Female Spirit rising from a Tomb; the Brute; the Mi- ser; the Dumbwaiter; Frederick King of Prussia on horseback; Young Roscius in the character of Richard the 3d; the late King of France tak- ing leave of his family; Selim & Amelia; a scene from Thomson's Seasons; Lady Jane Gray on the Scaffold; Baron Trenck in the Dungeon of Magdeburg; Empress of France; Tomb of Washington; Arms of the United States—With many other objects, pleasing and entertaining too numerous to mention.— These appearances will often change, now fly- ing on the spectators, now receding from them and suddenly increasing from seven inches to seven feet high and as quickly diminishing. The evening performance will conclude with the Celebrated Dance and Multiplication of the Witches. These merry and extraordinary dancers will throw themselves into a variety of postures, and will instantaneously multiply from one to many hundreds, in such a manner that the room will appear full. They will continue their gambols until interrupted by the sudden appearance of an unwelcome guest, who will by his authority re- duce them to order. Every evening of Exhibition a variety of new objects will be introduced. Solemn Music during the perform- ance. The performance of the Phantasmagoria to commence at 6 o'clock. Admittance Half a Dollar—Children half price.
Notice. THE BANK will not be open on Friday the 25th instant, nor on Friday the 1st of January. Bills and notes falling due on those days must be paid on the Thursday immediate- ly preceding, and paper to be discounted must be offered on the Wednesday . JOHN BROCKENBROUGH. Bank of Virginia, Dec. 16, 1807. w4t
A GREAT BARGAIN, MAY BE HAD IN ABOUT 1,000 ACRES OF LAND, Lying in the county of Buckingham, 400 of which lies 8 miles above the courthouse, on the waters of Fursy's creek & middle State river, adjoining the lands of Charles Maxey, Conner and others; 500 on both sides of Little Buffalo creek, about 12 miles below the courthouse, ad- joining the lines of Henry Rawlins and others, and 100 acres a little detached from the last tract. The first and last tracts are all in wood, on the second there is cleared land sufficient to work 6 or 8 hands to advantage, and part under pretty good fence. The whole of the above lands are well worth the attention of those who wish to buy; the greater part of the whole being prime tobacco land. Terms, one half cash, the other moiety in 6 and 12 months. They will, if not previously sold, be set up for sale, to the highest bidder, at Hezekiah Lipscomb's Tavern, 8 miles below the courthouse, on Monday the 4th Janu- ary next (if fair, if not, the next fair day). On the same day and place will be offered for sale, and in the same manner, 10 or 12 valuable SLAVES—also a number to be hired by the subscriber, living in the county of Buckingham. HENRY BELL. November, 1807. w14j
Royster & Bohannan, Respectfully inform their friends and the public generally, that they have just received a general assortment of GROCERIES, Which they will sell low for cash, country produce, or good notes at sixty days. —AMONGST WHICH ARE— 1200 sacks Liverpool Salt 10 hds W. I. RUM 50 do N. E. RUM 10 casks Sherry 10 do. Lisbon 10 do. Malaga 3 hds. Tenerife 24 hds Sugar 14 hds Loaf ditto 50 boxes N. Y. Candles 50 do best yellow Soap 100 reams wrapping Paper 50 do writing ditto, Soft shelled Almonds 12 boxes Chocolate 30 crates well assorted Earthen Ware 12 cases Glass Ware. Together with a number of other articles, which they will sell low for cash, country produce, or good acceptances in town. Richmond, October 28, 1807. wtf
In Chesterfield County Court, No- vember the 9th 1807. Robert Donald the elder, and Andrew Do- nald, surviving partners of James & Ro- bert Donald & Co. Compts. AGAINST Arthur Aikin and Polly his wife, late Poly- ly Lockett, Elam Lockett, Wm. Lock- ett, James Lockett, Robert Lockett, Green Lockett, King Lockett, Rhoda Lockett, Francis Lockett, jun. Page Va- den and Caroline his wife, late Caroline Lockett, Zach. Lockett, James Lockett, Polly Lockett, Nancy Beasley, late Nan- cy Lockett, and Lawson Burfoot, Def'ts. ON the motion of the complainants by their counsel, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that the defendant James Lockett, (herein before mentioned) is not an inhabitant of this state; It is ordered, That the bill of the said complainants will be taken for confessed as to the said defendant, and the matter thereof decreed accordingly, as to him, unless he appear here on or before the first day of our next March court, and answer the same; It is further ordered, That a copy of this order be forthwith published in one of the newspapers printed in the city Rich- mond for two months successively and another copy posted at the front door of the court- house of this county. A copy—Teste, Parke Poindexter, D. C.
VIRGINIA: At a Superior Court of Chancery held at the Ca- pital in Richmond, September 22d, 1807. William Diuguid and Lucy his wife. John M. Walker administrator with the will annexed of John Christian, deceased and Joyce Chris- tian widow of the late John Christian. and James Patterson, Plaintiffs. Against Elizabeth Patterson executrix and George Chris- tian executor of Peter Patterson, and Martha Patterson, Elizabeth M. Reynolds, Charles Patterson, Peggy Patterson, Polly Patterson, Pe- ter Patterson, Jenny Patterson, Henry Patterson, Fanny Patterson and Patterson, and Charles Bacon, son and heir of Nancy Ba- con late Nancy Patterson children and heirs at law of Charles Patterson deceased and devisees of the said Peter Patterson deceased, Mary Ann Patterson widow of John Patterson deceas- ed, Charles Phillips and Molly his wife, Lew- is Dawson and Lucy his wife, Samuel P. Christian and Nancy his wife, Samuel Patte- son and John Patterson infants by the said Sa- muel P. Christian specially assigned their guardian, heirs of the said John Patterson de- ceased, Defendants. IN this cause on motion of the plaintiffs by their counsel, the court without now deciding any of the matters in controversy in this suit, doth direct the commissioner to whom the accounts between the parties had been referred, to make a supplemental report to the one heretofore re- turned by him, in which he will reform the ac- counts as either party may require, or he may think proper, and also admit any other items of debit or credit which may be claimed, and report his proceedings to the court with any matters thought pertinent by himself or required by the parties; but this order is not to delay the hear- ing of the cause. A copy—Teste, Peter Tinsley, c. c.
Commissioner's Office, Richmond, 5th Nov. 1807. THE parties will take notice, that I have ap- pointed the eighteenth day of January next to carry into effect the foregoing decree of the court; on which day their attendance is re- quired at my office in this city with their ac- counts and vouchers ready for examination and settlement, and with copies of the court papers. Samuel Greenhow, M. C.
BANK BONDS For Sale at this Office. THE House on the Main Street, next to Messrs Ellis and Allan, and now occupied by Mrs. Phoebe. Possession will be given on the first of January next—apply to JOSEPH GALLEGÓ. Richmond, Dec. 27, 1807. tf
JUST RECEIVED AND FOR SALE AT THIS OFFICE, SIMPLE TALES, By Mrs. Opie. (First American edition in 2 vols—Price 2 dollars.)
GERARD BANKS Has it in view to establish a NEWS-PAPER in Richmond, to be published twice a week—The Title THE VIRGINIAN. THE Editor has been always attached to Republican systems. The present Admi- nistration, in his view, is well calculated to en- sure the happiness of the people: and any Ad- ministration which may succeed, pursuing the same general course, will be supported. For- eign and Domestic details will be noticed. Be- sides this, the public will, time after time, be apprised of the affairs of the public institutions, and particularly of the course of the Bank, its managers, its influence, its defects and imposi- tions. The usurpations of this dangerous institution will be noted; the aristocracy which grows from its management will be exposed. This course will be pursued with a temper and firmness, which will yield neither to the blandishments of flattery, nor the frowns of power. Stock jobbing and Favoritism, Twin Demons, will be arrested when ever they appear. 500 Subscribers at 5 dollars per annum each, one half in advance, are necessary to the com- encement of the paper. (tf) GERARD BANKS.
For Rent, THE House on the Main Street, next to Messrs Ellis and Allan, and now occupied by Mrs. Phoebe. Possession will be given on the first of January next—apply to JOSEPH GALLEGÓ. Richmond, Dec. 27, 1807. tf
IN THE PRESS, and will be published about the first of May next, by S. PLEASANTS, jun. Richmond, VOL. 240 OF THE REVISED CODE. CONTAINING ALL SUCH ACTS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF VIRGINIA, Of a public and permanent nature, as have passed since the Session of 1801. TO WHICH ARE ADDED, APPENDICES, CONTAINING A compilation of the several laws for the estab- lishment of the James river, Potomac, Ap- pomattox & Dismal Swamp Canal Companies; Laws concerning the Northern Neck; Titles of Acts authorising the establishment of Turnpike roads, & the erection of Toll-bars; A compilation of the several acts concerning the Mutual Assurance Society against Fire on Buildings; Acts and Resolutions of a general nature which were omitted in the Revisal of 1803; Laws concerning waste and unappropriated Lands on the Eastern and Western waters; Laws establishing Ferries;—and, A Table of Fines Forfeitures, Penalties and A- morcements; designating such as are to the use of the Commonwealth; such as go to- wards lessening the county levy; such as be- long to individuals, and such as are appropria- ted to any particular object.
With a complete INDEX to the whole—and References to former and subsequent acts of Assembly. By A GENTLEMEN OF THE BAR. Published pursuant to an Act of the General Assembly of Virginia, passed the 7th day of January, 1807. The volume will contain between four and five hundred pages, printed on an entire new type cast for the purpose, and good paper. It would have made its appearance at an earlier period, had it not been deemed advisable to delay the publication with a view to introduce the acts of the present session of the General Assembly. To remove all apprehension, the publisher is authorized to state, that the publication of the Statutes contemplated by Mr. HENING is not intended to interfere either with the plan or materials of which this and the first volume are composed. His object is to collect and preserve the fugitive acts from 1622 to 1792, many of which exist only in manuscript and in single co- pies: The first and second volumes of the Re- vised Code contain all the acts of a public nature now in force. Dec. 28, 1807.
Notice. By virtue of a decree of the county court of A- lbemarle, pronounced in the case of Micajah Chiles' executors, against Menan Mills, will be sold, for cash, on the first Monday in February next, on the premises, a certain LOT , together with the appurtenances thereto belonging, lying in the town of Charlottesville, and formerly the property and residence of Micajah Chiles, dec., which lot was conveyed to the executors of Mi- cajah Chiles by the said Menan Mills, by deed of mortgage to secure the payment of a debt therein mentioned. Also, will be sold for cash, by virtue of the decree aforesaid, on the next day, being the 2d day of February on the premises, a certain TRACT OF LAND , containing five hundred & sixty seven acres more or less, lying in the county of Albemarle, about ten miles above the town of Charlottesville, which land was con- veyed to the executors of Micajah Chiles, dec., by the said Menan Mills, by deed of mortgage as aforesaid. Thomas Carr, jun. David I. Lewis Martin Dawson. Charles Tamey. } Commissioners. Alex. Garrett. } Dec. 28th, 1807. tds
The Imported Horse, Bedford, So noted for getting capital racers, will stand the next season at my sta- ble in Chesterfield county. Further particulars will be made known before the season com- mences. THOMAS BRANCH. 14th October 1807 wtf
Drugs & Medicines. Daniel Wm. Sackrider & Co. Have this day opened a general assortment of DRUGS & MEDICINES, And a great variety of valuable PATENT ME- DICINES , which they are determined to sell on reasonable terms. DANIEL WM. SACKRIDER offers his ser- vices to the citizens of Richmond and its vic- inity as a practitioner of Physic, Surgery, &c. &c. He has every reason to believe his professional services will be satisfactory to those who will honour him with their confidence. Richmond, July 20th, nearly opposite Doct Foushee's.
Notice. THAT the following articles, manufactured at the Penitentiary, with the prices thereto annexed, are constantly kept for sale at the store of Nicholas Hallam, agent for the common- wealth, a few doors above the Swan Tavern in the city of Richmond; viz. CUT NAILS. Wholesale. Retail. 3d. 13 cents. 4d. 12 1-2 6d. 11 1-2 8d. 10 1-2 10d. 10 12d. 10 20d. 10 CUT BRADS. 8d. 16 10d. 9 1-2 12d. 9 1-2 20d. 9 1-2 WROUGHT NAILS. 6d. 13 8d. 12 1-2 10d. 12 12d. 11 1-2 20d. 11 40d. 11 Spikes of all sizes the same price as 30d nails. Men's fine shoes from 12 1-2 to 13 3-4 coarse do from 7 3-4 to 10 3-4 Women's fine do from 7 3-4 to 9 3-4 Boys & Miss's do from 3 3-4 to 6 3-4 Negroes' shoes from 7 3-4 to 9 3-4 Richmond, November 4th, 1807. tf