The enquirer (Richmond, Va.), 1805-03-05 00:00:00

THE ENQUIRER.
RICHMOND, (Virginia) PUBLISHED BY RITCHIE & WORSLEY, OPPOSITE THE POST-OFFICE...AT FIVE DOLLARS PER ANNUM...payable in advance.
NUMBER 91.]
TUESDAY MORNING, MARCH 5, 1805.
[VOLUME I.]
CONDITIONS.
 I. The ENQUIRER will appear twice a week...During the session of Congress and the Virginia Legislature, either a third paper or a supplementary half-sheet, during the week.  II. Terms of payment FIVE DOLLARS per annum, in advance.  III. ADVERTISEMENTS, from those who do not subscribe to the paper, should not exceed a square in length, shall be inserted for seventy-five cents the first time, fifty cents for each time during three weeks, and for every additional insertion thirty-three cents; long ones in the same proportion.  IV. SUBSCRIBERS shall have their advertisements inserted for fifty cents the first time, and thirty-three cents for every additional insertion. 
Sales at Auction.
Will be sold, on Wednesday, the 6th day of March next, on a credit of 12 months. An elegant CHARIOT, as good as new, with a complete set of harness, together with a pair of strong horses. THOMAS TAYLOR & Co. V. MS. Feb. 26. eptd.
Sales at Auction.
WILL be sold on Wednesday the 6th day of March next. A Good BRICK dwelling HOUSE with all the necessary offices together with two acres (town measure) of highly improved land; the property and present residence of Dr. James D. McCaw. Terms of payment will be made known on the day of sale. THOMAS TAYLOR & Co. V. MS. February 22.—tdl.
Auction Sales.
THOMAS TAYLOR & Co. WILL in future sell at the store occupied by M. W. Hancock & Co. on Wednesdays in each week; and at their office, on Tuesdays and Fridays as usual. Dec. 1, 1804. eptf  RISH Linens and Sheetings; Superfine Cloths and Cashmeres; India, Italian and French Silks; Do. Mall Mall Muslins; Do. do. do. Handks. Fancy Muslins, Veils and Shawls; Calicoes Muslins; Cambric Dimities & Calicoes; Laced Caps and Veils; Do. Handks and Shawls; Do. Gloves and Mitts; Wash Leather and Kid Gloves. For Sale by BARTLETT STILL. January 18. tf
BURR MILL STONES, of all sizes; and P LAISTER OF PARIS, of an excellent quality, FOR SALE, AS USUAL, BY WILLIAM DAVIDSON. near the Market. Dec. 4. [eptf.]
FOR SALE, FIVE Hhds. and 10 qr. casks of LONDON PARTICULAR TENERIFFE WINE of a superior quality, on a credit of 120 days—Negotiable notes. Enquire of THOMAS NORVELL. December 29. (tf)
SPANISH HIDES. FOR SALE, a large quantity of Prime Spanish Hides, on moderate terms. Apply to the Sub- scriber opposite the Post-Office, Richmond. MICAJAH DAVIS. 2d Mo. 19th. tf
FOR RENT: THE Large WHITE HOUSE at Rocketts, formerly occupied by Mr. William Fenwick, and afterwards by Mr. Braxton Craddock. For terms, apply to GALLEGO, RICHARD & CO. January 11. (tf)
TWO Dutchmen, whom I purchased at Norfolk lately, left home on the 2d. Feb. They are clothed in brown cloth; and have humbugs and brown linen shirts on, and an old fine hat. Martin is about 5 feet high, burly built, broad face, speaks English tolerably. John is tall and thin, with a long sharp nose and chin, and wide mouth. Any person, who will apprehend the said men will be well rewarded by JOHN BASSETT. Feb. 19. tf
THE subscriber wishes to hire two pair of good SAWYERS for five months. JOHN PENDLETON. Feb. 19. eptw
TO PRINTERS.
HENRY OURAM—PRESS-MAKER, South-east corner of Prince and Sixth-Streets: RESPECTFULLY informs the trades, that he undertakes to supply Printing-Offices with every thing in his line, having a complete Printer's Fount, constantly employed in making the wood part of Presses, Furniture, Rules, &c. &c. Charles of all sizes, Composing Sticks, Brails & Wood Cuts, &c. &c. constantly on hand, or made to order with dispatch and neatness. Orders from any part of the Continent attended to. Philad. Jan. 5. eptm.
TO BE SOLD—FOR READY MONEY, IN pursuance of a decree of the Circuit Court of the United States, between Phineas Bond, attorney for the creditors of Ezekiel Edwards, plaintiff, and David Ross and others, defendants, in order to raise the sum of 7000 dollars, 50 cents, with the expenses of sale, A NUMBER OF SLAVES and so much of that valuable Estate in the county of Campbell, known by the name of the OXFORD IRON WORKS, as shall appear sufficient to raise the said sum of money and the said expenses; the said land being now in the occupation of the said David Ross, and the slaves aforesaid, being on the land. The sale will take place at the Oxford Iron Works, in the county of Campbell, on Thursday the 11th of April next. The slaves are represented to be very valuable. The land is so well known, as to render a description unnecessary. BEN. MOSS, B. M. for Jos. Scott, M. V. D. March 1, 1805.
LAND FOR SALE.
A TRACT of about 890 acres, lying on James River, adjoining the town of Lynchburg; one hundred and forty of which is low ground, and said to be of the first quality; a considerable proportion of the high ground lies well, and well adapted to the culture of tobacco and grain. It has an excellent lead and rock quarry on it; a small apple orchard, a good dwelling house and convenient out-houses; a mill seat, supposed to be superior to any in that part of the country—the mill house would let within thirty-six poles of the river, on navigable water. Likely negroes would be received in part pay, and a generous price allowed for one or two blacksmiths that are under 36 years of age, and good workmen. For further particulars, apply to the subscriber, on the premises, or Mr. William Brown, merchant, in Lynchburg. LEWELLEN JONES. March 1. (eptf)
ONE DOLLAR (EACH) REWARD.
RANAWAY from the subscriber, Two Indented German Servants—one a middle aged man named George Smith, about 5 feet 10 inches high, almost blind, very burly built, his dress a short mist grey round coat and drawers, and sootied cap. The boy named J. W. Wilhelmsack, dressed in a red flannel waistcoat and fashion trousers; carried also with him a pair of mist kersey-mere breeches; is about 13 years of age, full faced and fair complexion. Whoever returns them to the subscriber, at the Eagle Tavern, shall receive the above reward. GEORGE C. HACKENMAYER. March 1. (34)
CHOICE LANDS—FOR SALE.
A DIVISION of the famous Saura Town Lands having taken place between the heirs of James Park Farley, Esq. decd. and Col. John S. Farley and his sister Mrs. Elizabeth Morison, the subscribers, Robert Taylor of Norfolk, and Charles Duncan at Rossin, near Peterburg, are fully empowered by the said Col. Farley and Mrs. Morison, to dispose of their proportion, containing 12,892 acres, which are surveyed and laid off in eight lots, containing from 500 to 2500 acres, agreeable to plots in the possession of the said Duncan. The four largest lots are of excellent quality, each containing a considerable proportion of the richest low grounds, which produce tobacco of the very first quality, as has been experienced by one of the subscribers, who flipped it for a number of years. Those lands lie on Dan and Smith's rivers, in Rockingham county, on the borders of North Carolina, about 170 miles from Peterburg and Richmond. As there are seldom such lands for sale, they must be an object to those who want to purchase such as will produce fine tobacco, hemp and small grain. One third of the price must be paid in ready money, one third in twelve months, and the other third in two years, the purchaser giving bond with unexceptionable security bearing interest from the date if not punctually paid. Those who wish to purchase will be shown the lands by Doctor John C. Cox, living at Leekville, near Rockingham Court-House, and the terms made known by ROBERT TAYLOR, or CHARLES DUNCAN. Peterburg, Nov. 24. eptf
MAP OF VIRGINIA.
PROPOSALS FOR PUBLISHING BY SUBSCRIPTION, A Map of Virginia: FORMED FROM ACTUAL SURVEYS, AND THE LATEST AS WELL AS THE MOST ACCURATE OBSERVATIONS. BY JAMES MADISON, D. D. PRESIDENT OF WILLIAM & MARY COLLEGE.
To which will be added, A MAP of the greater part of the State of Ohio, from actual surveys; including the whole of the Virginia Military Tract; with all that part of the State West of the Ohio River, to the Indiana boundary line. The north-east corner of the Map will be ornamented with an interesting View of the City of Richmond. The size of the MAP will be five feet six inches in length, and three feet eight inches in breadth. An ingenious and skilful Engraver is engaged to execute the work in a style not inferior to any similar work in the United States. CONDITIONS. The price to subscribers will be eight dollars, neatly mounted, colored and glazed.—One dollar, (to lighten the great expense of publication,) to be paid on subscribing. To non-subscribers the price will be ten dollars. [COPY RIGHT SECURED.]
In offering the above work to the public, the proprietors are sensible that excellence is not often attainable; but with candor and truth, equally remote from arrogance and partiality, they can say, that they conscientiously believe it has a just claim to the confidence and patronage of the people. A Map of Virginia has been long and anxiously looked for: None has been published, on the plan of the one now offered, for many years, when Augusta was the frontier county. The labor, expense, and apparent difficulties, in accomplishing so interesting a work, have deterred several from the arduous undertaking. The proprietors, finding that most of the other States had recently given encouragement to similar productions, and entertaining a high sense of the real dignity and importance of Virginia, embarked in the business, from a well grounded belief that the magnitude and utility of the work, would insure, if accomplished, a remuneration. And while Virginia is powerfully stimulated with the love of science and virtue, they hope and believe she will view domestic productions, which prove eminently useful, with a generous pride. Those gentlemen who take subscription papers, are requested to return them to the subscriber, in Peterburg, by the first day of May. The maps will be ready for subscribers in the course of the ensuing summer. WILLIAM PRENTIS. Peterburg, February, 1805. 2d Subscriptions received by RITCHIE & WORSLEY and others with whom subscription papers are lodged.
LANDS FOR SALE.
In the Genesee Country, State of New York. THE Subscriber having charge of part of the Valuable ESTATES in the Genesee country, lately under the agency of Charles Williamson, Esq. now offers them for sale on moderate terms either to actual settlers, or to those who declining to settle on the lands themselves, are desirous of investing their monies for the future benefit of their families. The titles of these lands are indisputable. For terms apply to Mr. John Heskop, at the proprietor's land office at Geneva, in the county of Ontario, in the State of New York, or to Mr. Saml. S. Haught at Bath, in the county of Steuben; or to Mr. Frederick Fanning, at Preston, in the State of Connecticut—or to ROBERT TROUP. New York, June 5, 1804. eWom
FOR RENT OR LEASE,
And immediate possession given: A HOUSE on the Basin of the Canal, occupied at present, and for four or five years past by the subscriber as a retail Grocery, and is one among the best stands in the city for that business. For terms, apply to ARCHELAUS HUGHES. February 26. eTf
FOR SALE.
A LIKELY young negro fellow, a BLACK SMITH by trade, and is well acquainted with the making of plantation utensils. For terms apply to PETER RUST. Richmond County, Feb. 8.—eT2m
THE PATENT BALANCE.
THE great accuracy, convenience and dispatch, besides economy of expense, labor and time attendant on this truly valuable improvement in the art of weighing, had such weight with the late general assembly, as to induce them to authorize the use of it in the tobacco warehouses of this commonwealth. This late testimonial in its favor, with many others in possession of the subscriber, together with the general approbation expressed by all purchasers, and his own experience, afford him ample reason to believe they are preferable to the common beams, scales and weights now generally used. As agent for the Patentee, he keeps always a general assortment on hand, to weigh from 100 to 3000 pounds, or fill more if required by particular order. E. W. ROOTES. Feb. 12. oaw 2m
THE Subscriber intends to practise LAW in the County Courts of Mecklenburg, Halifax, Lunenburg and Brunswick; & in the District Courts of Brunswick and Prince Edward. Any person willing to employ him in their business, may have ready communication with him at Lombardy Grove, Mecklenburg, where he will reside. RICHARD APPERSON. February 19. eTsw
DOCTOR WILSON received yesterday a supply of Peruvian Bark, Castor Oil and Salps, all of the best quality. He also has Calomel, Rhenbarb, Senna, Manna, Rochelle and Glauber Salts, Tartar Emetic, Ipecacuanha, Opium, Elastic and Silver Carburets, Elastic and common Bougies, &c. &c. &c. He offers to keep a supply of the best Medicines that can be procured, and flatters himself that his acquaintance with Medicine, will entitle him to a share of public patronage. Persons of needy circumstances by paying the retail prices of his Medicines, will be preferred for gratis. October 21. eWtf
WILL BE SOLD,
At Public Auction, on Saturday the 20th day of April next, at the Rawleigh Tavern, in the city of Williamsburg; THAT valuable Plantation called YARMOUTH, lying in James City county, on Chickahominy River, ten miles from Williamsburg. The improvements are, a two story brick house, with two rooms and a passage above and below; porticoes on each side; a large and capacious barn, and three other out-houses. The whole tract, including an Island, in view of the house, high and low land with marshes, contains about 2700 acres; scarcely one third of which is cleared. Two thirds of the Island is arable, which, with the land adjoining the house, is of superior quality. Adjacent to the Island are two bold and navigable creeks, with a convenient landing to each. The range for cattle is very extensive, and the marshes and meadows will supply an abundance of hay. Fish and wild fowl, in their respective seasons, may with ease be obtained at your door. The orchard, consisting of the greatest variety of all kinds of fruit, selected with care, are now in their prime. The terms of sale are one third cash, and one, two and three equal annual payments, for the balance. PEYTON RANDOLPH, Jr. Feb. 19. (eptds) FOR ELIZA INNES.
BROKER'S OFFICE.
THE Subscriber has opened a Broker's Office, opposite the Union Tavern, and over the Counting-house of Thomas and Amos Ladd. All business confided to him, will be transacted with fidelity. THOMAS NORVELL. October 3. tf
Domestic Intelligence.
WASHINGTON, February 27. Gen. JACKSON, on Monday the 25th, laid the following resolutions before the Senate, which were committed. Resolved, That the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States in Congress assembled, That Congress are highly impressed with the gallant and meritorious services of COMMODORE EDWARD PREBLE, during his command of the Squadron of the United States in the Mediterranean; where ability and prudence, intrepidity and caution have been conspicuously joined in all his operations against the Tyrant and barbarians of Tripoli, with whom the United States are at war; and where by the naval character of the American nation and people has, in the infancy of their national existence, acquired a respect and rank among the nations of the earth highly honorable and exalted.
Resolved, That the thanks of Congress be therefore, and they hereby are presented to the said Edward Preble, as the most durable monument of the affection and gratitude of his country; and also through him to all the officers, petty officers, seamen and marines attached to the Squadron under his command from the 9th of July to the 10th of September, 1804. Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to cause a gold medal to be struck emblematical of the attacks on the town, batteries and gun-boats of Tripoli, by the Squadron under Commodore Preble's command, and to present it to Commodore Preble in such manner as in his opinion will be most honorable to him; and that the President be further requested to cause gold medals of less value to be struck, with the word TRIPOLI on one side, and on the other the name PREBLE, and to present the same to such officers as may have most gallantly signalized themselves in the different attacks. Resolved, That one month's pay be allowed, exclusive of the common allowance, to all the petty officers, seamen and marines of the Squadron who so gallantly supported the honor of the American flag under the orders of their gal-
lant commander, within the period before mentioned. Resolved, That the President of the United States be also requested to inform the parents, or nearest connections of those gallant departed heroes, captain Somers, and lieutenants Wadsworth, Decatur, Caldwell and Israel, that they will ever live will ever live in the recollection and affection of a grateful country: an example to future generations, and an ornament to the historic page.
Copy of a letter from Commodore Preble to the Secretary of the Navy. Accompanying a Message of the President.
Sir, I had the honour to write you from Messina, under date of the 5th of July; I then expected to have failed the day following, but was detained by bad weather until the 9th, when I left it with two small bomb vessels under convoy, and arrived at Syracuse; where we were necessarily detained four days. On the 14th I failed; the Schooners Nautilus and Enterprize in company, with six gun-boats and two bomb vessels, generously loaned us by his Sicilian majesty. The bomb vessels are about thirty tons, carry a thirteen inch brass sea mortar, and forty men. Gun-boats twenty-five tons; carry a long iron twenty-four pounder in the bow, with a complement of thirty-five men. They are officered and manned from the Squadron, excepting twelve Neapolitan bombardiers, gunners and sailors attached to each boat; who were shipped by permission of their government. This Rep I found necessary, as every vessel in the Squadron was considerably short of complement. The gun-boats are constructed for the defence of harbours; they are flat-bottomed and heavy, and do not fail or row even tolerably well. They were never intended to go to sea, and I cannot be navigated with safety, unless assisted by tow-ropes from larger and better sailing vessels; nor even then in very bad weather. However, as they were the best I could obtain, I have thought it for the good of our service to employ them, particularly as the weather in July and August is generally pleasant; and without them my force is too small to make any impression on Tripoli.
On the 16th of July we arrived at Malta, where we were detained by contrary gales until the 21st, when we left it and arrived in sight of Tripoli the 25th, and were joined by the Siren, Argus, Vixen and Scourge. Our Squadron now consisted of the Constitution, three brigs, three Schooners, two bombs and six gun-boats—our whole number of men 1060. I proceeded to make the necessary arrangements for an attack on Tripoli, a city well walled, protected by batteries judiciously constructed, mounting 115 pieces of heavy cannon, and defended by 25,000 Arabs and Turks, the harbour protected by 19 gun-boats, two galleys, two Schooners, of eight guns each, and a brig mounting ten guns, ranged in order of battle, forming a strong line of defence at secured moorings, inside a long range of rocks and shoals, extending more than two miles to the eastward of the town, which form the harbour, protects them from the northern gales, and renders it impossible for a vessel of the Constitution's draft of water to approach near enough to destroy them, as they are sheltered by the rocks, and can retire under that shelter to the shore, unless they choose to exp. se themselves in the different channels and openings of the reefs for the purpose of annoying their enemies. Each of their gun-boats mounts a heavy 18 or 26 pounder in the bow and two brass howitzers on their quarters, and carry from 36 to 50 men. The galleys have each 100 men; Schooners and brigs about the same number. The weather was no favorable for anchoring until the 28th, when, with the wind E. S. E. the Squadron moved in for the coast, and at 3 P. M. anchored per signal. Tripoli bearing South 2 1/2 miles distant. At this moment the wind shifted suddenly from E. S. E. to N. N. W., and from thence to N. N. E. at 5 o'clock it blew strong with a heavy sea, setting directly on shore. I made the signal to prepare to weigh. At 6, the wind and sea having considerably increased, the signal was made for the Squadron to weigh and gain an offing; the wind continued veering to the eastward, which favoured our gaining sea room, without being obliged to carry to great a press of sail, as to lose any of our gun-boats, although they were in great danger. The gale continued varying from N. E. to E. S. E. without increasing much, until the 31st, when it blew away our reefed foresail and clove reefed main-top-sail; fortunately the sea did not rise in proportion to the strength of the gale, or we must have lost all our boats. August the 1st, the gale subsided, and we stood towards the coast; every preparation was made for an attack on the town and harbor. August the 3d, pleasant weather, wind east, flood in with the Squadron towards Tripoli; at noon we were between two and three miles from the batteries, which were all manned; and observing several of their gun-boats, and galleys had advanced in two divisions without the rocks, I determined to take advantage of their temerity; at half past 12 o'clock, I wore off shore, and made the signal to come within hail, when I communicated to each of the commanders, my intention of attacking the enemy's shipping & batteries. The gun & mortar-boats were immediately manned & prepared to cast off; the gun-boats in two divisions of three each: the first division commanded by capt. Somers in No. 1, lieutenant Decatur in No. 2, and lieutenant Blake in No. 3. The second division commanded by captain Decatur, in No. 4, lieutenant Bainbridge in No. 5, and lieutenant Tripp in No. 6. The two bombs were commanded by lieutenant commandant Dent, and M. Robinson, first lieutenant of this ship. At half past one o'clock, having made the necessary arrangements for the attack, wore ship and stood towards the batteries; at 2, signal made to cast off the boats; at quarter past 2, signal for bombs and gun-boats to advance and attack the enemy: at half past 2, general signal for battle; at 3 1/2 past 2 the bombs commenced the action by throwing shells into the town. In an instant the enemy's shipping and batteries opened a tremendous fire, which was promptly returned by the whole Squadron within grape distance; at the same time the second division of three gun-boats, led by the gallant capt. Decatur, was advancing with fails and oars, to board the eastern division of the enemy, consisting of nine boats. Our boats gave the enemy showers of grape and musket ball, as they advanced, they however, soon closed,
when the pistol, sabre, pike, and tomahawk, were made good use of by our brave tars. Captain Somers being in a dull filler, made the best use of his sweeps, but was not able to fetch far enough to windward to engage the same division of the enemy's boats, which capt. Decatur fell in with; he, however, gallantly bore down with his single boat on five of the enemy's western division, and engaged within the rocks in a shattered condition, and with the loss of a great number of men. Lieut. Decatur, in No. 2, was closely engaged with one of the enemy's largest boats, of the eastern division, which truck to him, after having lost a large portion of men, and on the instant that brave officer was boarding, to take possession, he was treacherously shot through the head, by the captain of the boat that had surrendered, which safe conduct enabled the patron (with the assistance he received from other boats) to escape. The third boat of captain Somers' division, kept to windward, firing at the boats and shipping in the harbor; had she gone down to his assistance, it is probable, several of the enemy's boats would have been captured in that quarter.—Captain Decatur, in No. 4, after having with distinguished bravery, boarded and carried one of the enemy, of superior force, took his prize in tow and gallantly bore down to engage a second, which, after a fierce and bloody conflict, he also took possession of. These two prizes had 33 officers and men killed, and 27 made prisoners; 19 of which were badly wounded. Lieut. Tripp, of the Vixen, in No. 6, ran along side of one of the enemy's large boats, which he boarded, with only midshipman John Hepley and nine men; his boat falling off before any more could get on board; thus was he left compelled to conquer or perish, with the odds of 96 to 11. The Turks could not withstand the ardor of this brave officer and his assistants; in a few minutes the decks were cleared, and her colours hauled down. On board of this boat 14 of the enemy were killed and 22 made prisoners, seven of which were badly wounded, the rest of their boats retreated within the rocks. Lieut. Tripp received eleven severe wounds, some of which were very severe; he speaks in the highest terms of Mr. Henry and those who followed him. Lieut. Bainbridge in No. 5, had his sixteen yard shot away early in the action, which prevented his getting along side of the enemy's boats; but he galled them by a steady and well directed fire with his gun-boats; indeed he pursued the enemy's boat grounded under the rocks, and was fortunately soon got off, and kept up a constant spray of the sea, occasioning the enemy's shot; they were well conducted by Mr. Dent and Robinson, who kept up a constant fire from the mortar and threw a great number of shells into the town. Five of the enemy's gun-boats and two galleys, competing the centre division, and stationed within the rocks as a reserve, joined by the boats that had been driven in and supplied by fresh men from the shore to replace those they had lost, twice attempted to run out to endeavour to surround our gun-boats and their prizes, I as often made the signal to cover them, which was promptly attended to by the brigs and Schooners, all of which, were gallantly conducted, and annoyed the enemy exceedingly; but the fire from this ship kept their flotilla completely in check. Our grape shot made great havoc among their men, not only on board their shipping, but on shore. We were several times within two cables' length of the rocks, and within three of their batteries; every one of which in succession, were silenced as long as we could bring our broadside to bear upon them. But the moment we passed a battery it was reanimated and a constant heavy fire kept up, from all that we could not point our guns at. We suffered most when wearing or tacking; it was then I most feelily felt the want of another frigate. At half past four the wind inclining to the north-westward, I made the signal for the bombs and gun-boats to retire from action, and immediately after, the signal to tow off the gun-boats and prizes, which was handsomely executed by the brigs, Schooners, and boats of the Squadron, covered by a heavy fire from the Constitution. At three quarters past 4 P. M. the light vessels, gun-boats and prizes being out of reach of the enemy's shot, hauled off to take the bomb vessels in tow. We were two hours under the fire of the enemy's batteries, and the only damage received in this ship is, a 24 pound shot nearly through the centre of the main-mast, 30 feet from the deck, main-royal yard and full shot away; one of our quarter-deck guns damaged by a 32 pound shot, which at the time time shattered a marine's arm. Two lower shrouds and two back stays were shot away and our fails and running rigging considerably cut; we must impede our getting off thus well, to our keeping to near that they overhauled us, and to the annoyance our grape shot gave them; they are however but wretched gunners. Gun-boat No. 5, had the main yard shot away; and the rigging and fails of the brigs and Schooners were considerably cut.—Lieutenant Decatur was the only officer killed, but in him the service has lost a valuable officer: he was a young man who gave strong promise of being an ornament to his profession; his conduct in the action was highly honorable, and he died nobly. The enemy must have suffered very much in killed and wounded both among their shipping and on shore. Three of their gun-boats were sunk in the harbour, several of them had their decks nearly cleared of men by our shot, and a number of theirs burnt in the town and batteries, which we have done
off men, and behav apolit canot b other li Harriden, th as did all the was much gr Hall, and lieut longing to his com six long 26 pounder placed under his d speaks in the highest Lieut. Thain, and mid No. 4, as does Captain men Ridgely and Mier Annexed is a list of killed included a copy of my gener occasion. Killed—gun-boat No. 2, lier Decatur.

Wounded—Constitution, one marine. Do.—gun-boat No. 4, Captain Decatur, flight, one sergeant of marines, and two seamen. Do.—gun-boat No. 6, lieutenant Tripp, severely, one boatman's mate, and two marines. Do.—gun-boat No. 1, two seamen. Do.—gun-boat No. 2, two seamen. Total—one killed and thirteen wounded. August 5th. We were at anchor with the squadron about two leagues north from the city of Tripoli, the Argus in chase of a small vessel to the westward, which the soon come up with, and brought within hail. She proved to be a French privateer of 4 guns, which put into Tripoli a few days since for water, and left it this morning. I prevailed on the Captain for a consideration, to return to Tripoli, for the purpose of landing 4 very badly wounded Tripolitans, which I put on board her vessel with a letter to the prime minister, leaving it at the option of the Bashaw, to reciprocate this generous mode of conducting the war. The lending these unfortunate men on shore to be taken care of by their friends was an act of humanity on our part, which I hope will make a proper impression on the minds of the barbarians—but I doubt it. All hands were busily employed altering the rig of the three prizes, from latteen vessels to sloops, and preparing for a second attack. Observing one of the enemy's schooners and the brig (two corsairs) in the harbour to be dismasted, was informed by the French Captain, that the damage these vessels received in the action of the 3rd, had occasioned their being taken out. The 7th the French privateer came out, and brought me a letter from the French Consul, in which he observes, that our attack of the 3rd instant had disposed the Bashaw to accept of reasonable terms; and invited me to send a boat to the rocks with a flag of truce, which was declined, as the white flag was not hoisted at the Bashaw's castle. At 9 A. M. with a very light breeze from the Eastward, and a strong current, which obliged the Constitution to remain at anchor, I made the signal for the light vessels to weigh, and the gun and bomb boats to cast off and stand in shore towards the Western batteries, the prize boats having been completely fitted for service, and the command of them given to Lieut. Crane, of the Vixen, Thorn, of the Enterprise, and Caldwell of the Syren;—the whole advanced with falls and oars. The orders were for the bombs to take a position in a small bay to the westward of the city, where but few of the enemy's guns could be brought to bear on them, but from whence they could annoy the town with shells. The gun-boats, to silence, a battery of seven heavy guns, which guarded the approach to that position, and the brig and schooners to support them, in case the enemy's flotilla should venture out, at half past 1 P. M. a breeze from N. N. E. I weighed with the Constitution, and stood in for the town, but the wind being on shore made it imprudent to engage the batteries with the ship, as in case of a main being shot away, the loss of the vessel would probably ensue. A change of wind should favour our attack, and I made the signal to attack the town and batteries. We immediately commenced throwing shells, and the gun-boats opened a sharp and well directed fire on the town and batteries within point blank shot, which was warmly returned by the enemy. The seven gun battery in less than two hours was silenced, except one gun—I presume the others were dismounted by our shot, as the walls were almost totally destroyed. At a quarter past 3 P. M. a ship hove in sight to the northward, standing for the town; made the Argus, signal to chase—At half past 9 one of our prize gun-boats was blown up by a hot shot from the enemy, which passed through her magazine. She had on board 28 officers, seamen and marines; 10 of whom were killed, and 6 wounded. Among the killed were James R. Coldwell, first lieutenant of the Syren, and midshipman John S. Derby, both excellent officers; midshipman Spence and eleven men were taken up unhurt—Captain Decatur, whose division this boat belonged to, and who was near her at the time the blew up, reports to me that Mr. Spence was superintending the loading of the gun at that moment, and notwithstanding the heat was stifling, he, and the brave fellows surviving, finished charging, gave three cheers as the boat went from under them, and swam to the nearest boats, where they assisted during the remainder of the action. The enemy's gun-boats and galleys (15 in number) were all in motion close under the batteries, and appeared to meditate an attack on our boats; the Constitution, Nautilus and Enterprise were to windward, ready at every hazard to cut them off, from the harbor, if they should venture down; while the Syren and Vixen were near our boats to support and cover any of them that might be disabled. The enemy thought it most prudent, however, to retire to their strong retreat behind the rocks, after firing a few shots. Our boats, in two divisions, under captains Somers and Decatur, were well conducted, as were our bomb-vessels, by Lieuts. Dent and Robinson. The town must have suffered much from this attack, and their batteries, particularly the seven gun-battery, must have lost many men. At half past 5 P. M. the wind began to freshen from the N. N. E. I made the signal for the gun and bomb boats to retire from action, and for the vessels to which they were attached, to take them in tow. The Argus made signal that the strange sail was a friend. In this day's action No. 4 had a 24 pound shot through her hull; No. 6, had her latteen yard shot away; No. 8 a 24 pound shot through her hull, which killed two men. Some of the other boats had their rigging and falls considerably cut. We threw 48 shells, and about 500 24 pound shot into the town and batteries. All the officers and men engaged in the action behaved with the utmost intrepidity. At half past 6 all the boats were in tow, and the squadron standing to the N. W. At 8 the John Adams, Capt. Chauncy, from the U. States, joined company. At 9 the squadron anchored, Tripoli bearing S. E. 5 miles distant. Gun-boat No. 3 was this day commanded by Mr. Brooks, master of the Argus, and No. 6 by Lieut. Wadsworth, of the Constitution. Annexed is a return of our loss in this attack. Killed—Gun-boat No. 1, 1 lieutenant, 1 midshipman, 1 boatman's mate, 1 marine, and 1 seaman. Gun-boat No. 2, 2 seamen. Gun-boat No. 3, 1 lieutenant, 1 midshipman, 1 boatman's mate, 1 marine, and 1 seaman. Gun-boat No. 4, 1 sergeant of marines, and 2 seamen. Gun-boat No. 6, 1 lieutenant, 1 boatman's mate, and 2 seamen. Gun-boat No. 8, 1 lieutenant, 1 midshipman, 1 boatman's mate, 1 marine, and 1 seaman. Gun-boat No. 9, 6 seamen, two mortals. In all, 10 killed, 13 wounded. In Chauncy's division, brought me the first information that any reinforcement was to be sent him. I was honored with your letter of the 7th, 23d and 31st of May, informing that four frigates were coming out un-
der commodore Barron, who is to supercede me in the command of our naval forces in these seas, at the same time, appropriating my conduct, and conveying to me the thanks of the President for my services; I beg you, Sir, to accept my warmest thanks for the very obliging language in which you have made these communications, and to assure the President, that to merit the applause of my country, is my only aim, and to receive it, the highest gratification it can bestow. Captain Chauncy informed me that the frigates might be expected every moment, as they were to sail from Hampton Roads 4 days after him; in consequence of this information, and as I could not bring the John Adams into action, the having left all her gun-carriages for her gun-deck, except 8, on board the Congress and Constellation a day or two previous to her sailing, I determined to wait a few days for the arrival of Commodore Barron before another attack, when, if he should arrive, the fate of Tripoli must be decided in a few hours, and the Bashaw completely humbled. Had the John Adams brought out her gun-carriages, I should not have waited a moment, and can have no doubt but the next attack would make the arrival of more ships unnecessary for the termination of the Tripoline war. I gave Capt. Chauncy orders to remain on the station, that we might be benefited by the assistance of his boats and men, as nearly half the crews of the Constitution, brig, and schooners, are taken out to man the bombs, guns and ships boats when prepared for an attack. August the 8th we were engaged supplying the bombs and gun-boats with ammunition and stores, and getting everything in readiness for an attack the moment Commodore Barron should arrive and make the signal. I cannot but regret that our naval establishment is so limited, as to deprive me of the means and glory of completely subduing the haughty tyrant of Tripoli, while in the chief command, it will however afford me satisfaction to give my successor all the assistance in my power. At 3 P. M. I went on board the Argus for the purpose of reconnoitering the harbour of Tripoli, we stood in towards the town, and were near being sunk by the enemy's fire—One of their heaviest shot which struck about three feet short of the water line, raked the copper off her bottom under water, and cut the plank half through. In the evening the wind blew strong from the N. N. E. the squadron weighed and kept under sail all night. The day following we anchored, Tripoli bearing S. S. W. 6 miles distant. At 10 A. M. the French consul hoisted a white flag at his flag staff under the national colours, which was a signal that the Bashaw was ready to treat. I sent a boat into the harbor and took this opportunity to forward Captain Bainbridge and his officers, letters from their friends; the boat was not allowed to land, but returned in the afternoon and brought me a letter advising that the Bashaw was ready to receive 500 dollars for the ransom of each of the prisoners, and terminate the war without any consideration for peace or tribute; this is 350,000 dollars less than was demanded previous to the action of the 3rd inst. The terms I did not hesitate to reject, as I was informed by Capt. Chauncy that it was the expectation of our government on the arrival of four frigates, to obtain the release of the officers and crew of the Philadelphia without ransom and dictate the terms of peace. Enclose you copies of our correspondence, which will convince you that our attacks have not been made without effect. 16th. No news of the frigates, and but short allowance of water in the squadron. I sent the Enterprise to Malta, with orders to the agent there, to hire transports and send off immediately a supply of fresh water, provision and other stores, which have become necessary, as some of the squadron have now been five months in sight of this dismal coast, without once visiting a friendly port: those vessels as well as the gun-boats receive their supply of water and provisions from the Constitution. 18th. As the season is fast approaching when we may expect bad weather, and no news of the frigates, I have determined to make an attack as soon as the wind proves favorable. At 8 P. M. I sent captains Decatur and Chauncy in two small boats to reconnoitre the harbor, and observe the disposition of the enemy's flotilla at night: they returned at midnight, and reported that they were anchored in a line abreast, from the Mole to the Bashaw's castle, with their heads to the eastward, for the defence of the inner harbor. At day light the wind shifted suddenly from N. E. to N. N. W. and brought a heavy sea on shore, which obliged us, for greater safety, to weigh and stand to sea. 20th. We had gained an offing of 9 or 10 leagues, still blowing hard. We met with the Ketch Intrepid, from Syracuse, with a cargo of fresh water, and vegetables for the squadron. 22d. Fell in with a ship from Malta, with water and live stock for the squadron. These cargoes arrived very opportunely, as we have for some time past been on short allowance of water. The wind having moderated, we stood in, and anchored with the squadron 6 miles N. E. by N. from Tripoli; all the boats were engaged in discharging the transports. The Enterprise arrived from Malta, but brought no intelligence of the long expected frigates. 24th. With a light breeze from the N. E. we stood in with the squadron prepared for action, intending to attack the town and shipping in the night. At 8 in the evening anchored about two and an half miles from the batteries. At midnight it fell calm. I sent the bomb vessels under the protection of the gun boats, to bombard the town; the boats of the squadron were employed in towing them in. At 2 A. M. the bombardment commenced, and continued until day light, but with what effect is uncertain. At six all the boats joined us, and were taken in tow by the squadron, which was under weigh, and standing off. At 7 anchored 4 miles north of the town. The weather for several days proved unfavorable for approaching the shore. 28th. We were favored with a pleasant breeze from the eastward. At 3 P. M. we weighed, and stood in for Tripoli. At 5 anchored the Constitution two miles N. E. by E. from fort English, and 2 and an half from the Bashaw's castle; the light vessels ordered to keep under weigh. We were employed until 8 P. M. in making arrangements for attacking the town; a number of the officers, and many of the seamen of the Constitution being attached to the bomb, gun, and ship's boats; Capt. Chauncy with several of his officers, and about 70 seamen and marines volunteered their service on board the Constitution. All the boats in the squadron were officered and manned, and attached to the several gun-boats; the two bomb vessels could not be brought into action, as one was leaky, and the mortar-bed of the other had given way. The John Adams, Scourge, transports and bombs, were anchored seven miles to the northward of the town. Lieut. commandant Dent, of the Scourge, came on board the Constitution, and took charge on the gun-deck; Lieut. Izard of the Scourge also joined me. Lieut. Gordon commands gun-boat No. 2, and Lieut. Laurence of the Enterprise, No. 5;—these are the only changes. At half past 1 A. M. the gun-boats in two divisions, led by captains Decatur and Somers were ordered to advance, and take their
positions close to the rocks, at the entrance of the harbor, within grape shot distance of the Bashaw's castle. The Siren, Argus, Vixen, Nautilus, Enterprise, and boats of the squadron accompanied them. At 3 A. M. the boats anchored with springs on, within pistol shot of the rocks, and commenced a brisk firing on the shipping, town, batteries, and Bashaw's castle, which was warmly returned, but not as well directed; the ship's boats remained with the gun-boats, to assist in boarding the enemy's flotilla, if it should venture out; while the brig and schooners kept under weigh ready for the same service, or for annoying the enemy as occasion might present. At day light presuming that the gun-boats had nearly expended their ammunition, we weighed with the Constitution and stood in for the harbor. Fort English, the Bashaw's castle, crown and mole batteries kept up a heavy fire on us as we advanced. At half past 5 I made the signal for the gun-boats to retire from action; and for the brig and schooners to take them in tow. We were then within two cable's length of the rocks, and commenced a heavy fire of round and grape on thirteen of the enemy's gun-boats and galleys, which were in pretty close action with our boats. We sunk one of the enemy's boats, at the same time, two more disabled, ran on shore to avoid sinking; the remainder immediately retreated. We continued running in, until we were within musket shot of the crown and mole batteries, when we brought to, and fired upwards of 300 round shot besides grape and canister into the town, Bashaw's castle and batteries. We silenced the castle and two of the batteries for some time. At a quarter past 6 the gun-boats being all out of shot and in tow, I hauled off, after having been 3-4 of an hour in close action. The gun-boats fired upwards of 400 round shot, besides grape and canister with good effect. A large Tunisian galliot was sunk in the mole; a Spanish ship which had entered with an ambassador from the grand Signior, received considerable damage. The Tripoline galleys and gun-boats lost many men and were much cut. The Bashaw's castle and town have suffered very much; as have their crown and mole batteries. Captains Decatur and Somers conducted their divisions of gun-boats with their usual firmness and address; and were well supported by the officers and men attached to them. The brig and schooners were also well conducted during the action, and fired a number of shot at the enemy; but their guns are too light to do much execution. They suffered considerably in their rigging and falls. The officers and crew of the Constitution behaved well, I cannot in justice to Capt. Chauncy, omit noticing the very able assistance I received from him on the quarter deck of the Constitution, during the whole of the action. The damage which we have received is principally above the hull; three topmast shrouds, two spring stays, two topmast back stays, trusses, chains & lifts of the main yard shot away. Our falls had several cannon shot through them, and were besides considerably cut by grape; much of our running rigging cut to pieces, one of our anchor stocks and our larboard cable shot away, and a number of grape shot were sticking in different parts of the hull; but not a man hurt! A boat belonging to the John Adams, with a master's mate (Mr. Creighton) and eight men, was sunk by a double headed shot from the batteries while in tow of the Nautilus, which killed three men and badly wounded one, who with Mr. Creighton and the other four, were picked up by one of our boats. The only damage our gun-boats sustained, was in their rigging and falls, which were considerably cut with the enemy's round and grape shot. At 11 A. M. we anchored with the squadron 5 miles N. E. by N. from Tripoli, and repaired the damage received in the action. 29th and 30th, preparing the bomb vessels for service; supplying the gun-boats with ammunition, &c. 31st, a vessel arrived from Malta with provisions and stores; brought no news of commodore Barron, or the frigates. We discharged this vessel's cargo and ordered her to return. September the 2d, the bomb vessels having been repaired and ready for service, Lieuts. Dent and Robinson, returned the command of them. Lieutenant Morris of the Argus took command of No. 3; and Lieutenant Tripp having nearly recovered from his wounds, resumed the command of No. 6, which he gallantly conducted the sd. action. Captain Chauncy, with several young gentlemen, and sixty men from the John Adams, volunteered on board the Constitution. At 4 P. M. made the signal to weigh; kept under sail all night. At 11 P. M. a general signal to prepare for battle: a Spanish Polacre in ballast, came out of Tripoli, with an ambassador of the Grand Signior on board, who had been sent from Constantinople to Tripoli to confirm the Bashaw in his title; this ceremony takes place in all the Barbary regencies, every five years. The Captain of this vessel informed us, that our shot and shells had made great havoc and destruction in the City, and among the shipping, and that a vast number of people have been killed; also informs us that three of the boats which were sunk by our shot, in the actions of the 2d and 3rd inst. had been got up, repaired and fitted for service. 3rd. At 2 P. M. Tripoli bore S. S. W. 2 1-2 miles distant, wind E. by E. At half past 2 the signals were made for the gun-boats to cast off, advance and attack the enemy's galleys & gun-boats, which were all under weigh in the eastern part of the harbour, whither they had for some time been working up against the wind. This was certainly a judicious movement of theirs, as it precluded the possibility of our boats going down to attack the town, without leaving the enemy's flotilla in their rear, & directly to windward.—Accordingly ordered the bomb vessels to run down within proper distance of the town, and bombard it, while our gun-boats were to engage the enemy's galleys and boats to windward. At half past 3 P. M. our bombs having gained the station to which they were directed, anchored and commenced throwing shells into the City. At the same time our gun-boats opened a brisk fire on the galleys and within point blank shot, which was warmly returned by them and fort English and by a new battery, little to the westward; but as soon as our boats arrived within good musket shot of their galleys and boats, they gave way and retreated to the shore within the rocks and under cover of musketry from fort English. They were followed by our boats and by the Siren, Argus, Vixen, Nautilus and Enterprise as far as the reefs would permit them to go with prudence. The action was then divided. One division of our boats with the brig and schooners attacked fort English, whilst the other was engaged with the enemy's galleys and boats. The Bashaw's castle, the Mole, Crown, and several other batteries kept up a constant fire on our bomb vessels which were well conducted, and threw shells briskly into the town—but from their situation, they were very much exposed, and in great danger of being sunk. I accordingly ran within them with the Constitution to draw off the enemy's attention, and amuse them whilst the bombardment was kept up. We brought to
within reach of grape, and fired eleven broadsides in the Bashaw's castle, town and batteries, in a situation where more than 70 guns could bear upon us.—One of their batteries was silenced.—The town, Castle, and other batteries considerably damaged. By this time, it was half past four o'clock.—The wind was increasing and inclining rapidly to the northward. I made the signal for the boats to retire from action, and for the brig and schooners to take them in tow, and soon after hauled off with the Constitution to repair damages. Our main top sail was totally disabled by a shell from the batteries, which cut away the leach rope and several cloths of the sail. Another shell went through the fore top sail and one through the jib. All our falls considerably cut—two topmast back stays shot away, main sheet, fore stays, lifts, braces, bowlines, and the running rigging generally very much cut, but no shot in our hull, excepting a few grape. Our gun-boats were an hour and fifteen minutes in action. They disabled several of the enemy's galleys and boats, and considerably damaged fort English. Most of our boats received damage in their rigging and falls. The bomb vessel No. 1, commanded by lieutenant Robinson was disabled; every shroud being shot away—the bed of the mortar rendered useless, and the vessel near sinking. She was however towed off. About fifty shells were thrown into the town, and our boats fired 400 round shot, besides grape and canister. They were led into action by captains Decatur and Somers with their usual gallantry. The brig and schooners were handsomely conducted, and fired many shot with effect at fort English, which they were near enough to reach with their carronades. They suffered considerably in their rigging, and the Argus received a 32 pound shot in the hull forward, which cut off a bowler cable as it entered. We kept under weigh until 11 P. M. when we anchored, Tripoli bearing S. S. W. 5 leagues. Again with pleasure acknowledge the services of an able and active officer in captain Chauncy, serving on the quarter deck of the Constitution. At fun rifle I made the signal for the squadron to prepare for action. The carpenters were sent on board the bombs to repair damages, and our boats employed in supplying the bombs and gun-boats with ammunition, and to replace the expenditures. Desirous of annoying the enemy, by all the means in my power, I directed to be put into execution a long contemplated plan of sending a fireship, or infernal, into the harbor of Tripoli, in the night, for the purpose of endeavoring to destroy the enemy's shipping, and shatter the Bashaw's castle and town. Captain Somers, of the Nautilus, having volunteered his services, had, for several days before this period, been directing the preparation of the ketch Intrepid, assisted by Lieuts. Wadsworth and Israel. About 100 barrels of powder and 150 fixed shells, were apparently judiciously disposed of on board her. The fuzes leading to the magazine, where all the powder was deposited, were calculated to burn a quarter of an hour. September 4th. The Intrepid being prepared for the intended service Capt. Somers and Lieut. Wadsworth made choice of two of the fastest rowing boats in the squadron, for bringing them out. After reaching their destination and firing the combustible materials, which were to communicate with the fuzes, capt. Somers' boat was manned with 4 men from the Nautilus, and Lieut. Wadsworth's, with 6 from the Constitution. Lieut. Israel accompanied them. At 8 in the evening, the Intrepid was under sail, and standing for the port, with a leading breeze from the eastward. The Argus, Vixen and Nautilus conveyed her as far as the rock. On entering the harbor, several shot was fired at her from the batteries. In a few minutes after, when she had apparently nearly gained the intended place of destination, she suddenly exploded, without their having previously fired a room filled with splinters and other combustibles, which were intended to create a blaze, in order to deter the enemy from boarding, whilst the fire was communicating to the fuzes, which led to the magazine. The effect of the explosion awed their batteries into profound silence, with astonishment. Not a gun was afterward fired for the night. The shocks of the inhabitants informed us that the town was thrown into the greatest terror and consternation by the explosion of the magazine, and the bursting and falling of falling of shells in all directions. The whole squadron waited with the utmost anxiety to learn the fate of the adventurers, from a signal previously agreed on in case of success, but waited in vain; no signs of their safety were to be observed. The Argus, Vixen and Nautilus hovered round the entrance of the port until sunrise, when they had a fair view of the whole harbor. Not a vessel of the ketch or boats were to be seen. One of the enemy's largest gun-boats was missing, and three others were seen very much shattered and damaged, which the enemy were hauling on shore. From these circumstances I am led to believe, that these boats were detached from the enemy's flotilla to intercept the ketch, and without suspecting her to be a fire-ship, the missing boat had suddenly boarded her, when the gallant Somers and heroes of his party, observing the other three boats surrounding them, and no prospect of escape, determined at once to prefer death and the destruction of the enemy, to captivity and torturing slavery, put a match to the train leading directly to the magazine, which at once blew the whole into the air, and terminated their existence. My conjectures respecting this affair are founded on a resolution, which capt. Somers, Lieuts. Wadsworth and Israel had formed, neither to be taken by the enemy, nor suffer him to get possession of the powder on board the Intrepid. They expected to enter the harbor without discovery, but had declared, if they should be disappointed, and the enemy should board them, before they reached the point of destination, in such force as to leave them no hopes of a safe retreat, that they would put a match to the magazine and blow themselves and their enemies up together: determined, as there was no exchange of prisoners, that their country should never pay ransom for them, nor the enemy receive a supply of powder through their means.—The disappearance of one of the enemy's boats, and the shattered condition of three others, confirm me in my opinion, that they were an advanced guard, detached from the main body of the flotilla on discovering the approach of the Intrepid, and that they attempted to board her, before she had reached her point of destination, otherwise the whole of their shipping must have suffered, and perhaps would have been totally destroyed. That she was blown up before she gained her station is certain, by which the service has lost three very gallant officers. Capt. Somers, and Lieuts. Wadsworth and Israel were officers of conspicuous bravery, talents and merit—they had uniformly distinguished themselves in the several actions—were beloved and lamented by the whole squadron. September the 5th. We were employed in supplying the gun-boats with ammunition, &c. and repairing the bomb vessels for another attack, but the wind shifting to the N. N. E. a heavy swell setting on shore, & other indications of bad weather, determined me to take the guns, mortars, shot and shells out of the boats into the Constitution and John Adams, which
was accordingly done. The weather continuing to be threatening until the 7th, and our ammunition being reduced to a quantity not more than sufficient for three vessels to keep up the blockade; no intelligence of the expected reinforcements; and the season so far advanced as to render it imprudent to hazard the gun-boats any longer on the station; I gave orders for the John Adams, Syren, Nautilus, Enterprise and Scourge to take the bombs and gun-boats in tow, and proceed to Syracuse with them, the Argus and Vixen to remain with the Constitution to keep up the blockade. September the 10th. The United States ship President, commodore Barron, and Constellation, Capt. Campbell, hove in sight and joined company, when the command of the squadron was surrendered to commodore Barron, with the usual ceremony. I continued in company with the squadron until the 12th, when three strange ships came in sight standing direct for Tripoli. Chase was given and two of them boarded and taken possession of by the Constitution, the President in company, about four leagues from Tripoli, but not more than five miles from the land; while the Constellation and Argus were in chase of the third. The two boarded by the Constitution were loaded with about fifteen thousand bushels of wheat. Tripoli is in a state of starvation, and there can be no doubt but those cargoes were meant as a supply and relief to our enemies. Considering the season so far advanced and weather too uncertain to hazard any further operations against Tripoli at present, commodore Barron determined that the prizes should be sent to Malta, under convoy of the Constitution, it being necessary the should go into port to be re-caulked and refitted—I notified commodore Barron that it was my wish to return to the United States in the frigate John Adams, captain Chauncy; this readily and in the handsomest manner met his acquiescence—I shall accordingly return in that ship. The service in this quarter cannot suffer from this arrangement, as captain Decatur is at present without a ship, and my return will immediately place him in the exercise of the duties attached to his commission, which he has so gallantly executed, and his country generously bestowed. I shall feel a pleasure in leaving the Constitution under the command of that officer, whose enterprising and manly conduct I have often witnessed, and whose merits eminently entitle him to so handsome a command. The other commanders merit the highest commendations for their prompt obedience to orders on all occasions, and for the zeal, spirit, and judgment, which they displayed in the several attacks on the enemy's shipping and batteries, as well as for the general good order and discipline at all times observed on board their respective vessels. The officers of the squadron have conducted themselves in the most gallant and handsome manner; and the conduct of the different ship's companies has merited my warmest approbation since I have had the honor to command them. It affords me much satisfaction to observe, that we have never had a duel nor court martial in the squadron since we left the United States. I most sincerely regret the loss of our gallant countrymen who have sacrificed their lives to the honor of the service, and that it has not been in my power, consistent with the interest and expectation of our country, to liberate captain Bainbridge and the unfortunate officers and crew of the Philadelphia. Be assured, Sir, I have incessantly endeavoured to effect this desirable object, I have no doubt but my success will be able to effect their release, and establish peace on such terms as will reflect the highest honour on himself and his country. September 17th. Arrived at Malta with the two detained Greek vessels.—We experienced very bad weather, but had the satisfaction to learn that the bombs and gun-boats had arrived safe at Syracuse the 15th instant without accident. Each of the Tripoline gun-boats which we have captured has two brass howitzers abaft, and a handsome copper gun in the bow, which carries a 32 pound shot, is 11 1-2 feet long, weighs 6,600 pounds. I send you a plan of the town and harbour of Tripoli, with the disposition of our squadron, and the enemy's flotilla, at the time of the several attacks, with fundry other papers. I have the honor to be, With the highest respect, Sir, Your most obedient servant, EDWARD PREBLE. United States ship Constitution, Malta harbor, Sept. 18th, 1804. HONORABLE SECRETARY OF THE UNITED STATES NAVY, WASHINGTON. WHEREAS, by an act of the General Assembly, passed the 29th day of January last, entitled "An Act for carrying into execution the constitution of the Mutual Assurance Society against fire on buildings in the state of Virginia, lately adopted at a General Meeting." It is among other things enacted, "That the funds now in hand, as well as debts due to the said society, shall be divided between the towns and country in proportion to the capital subscribed by the towns and country respectively," and that "property insured in towns, and property insured in the country, shall be responsible for their respective losses only, and not for the losses of each other." And whereas, from the extraordinary losses which the society had sustained prior to the 24th day of February last, the funds of the society, had been very much reduced, and yet are reduced to that portion of the said funds to be allotted to the towns in conformity to the act of Assembly aforesaid, will in all probability be insufficient to meet the losses (exclusively chargeable on the funds of the towns) which may reasonably be expected to occur in the course of the present year and the credit and very existence of the institution requiring that provision should be made for the immediate payment of such contingent losses—The Board of Directors of the Society aforesaid, have thought proper to call for the payment of half a quota on each building which had been insured in any town in this commonwealth, or in the town of Alexandria, before the said 24th day of February last, to be paid on or before the first day of April next. I do therefore and in conformity to a resolution adopted by the said Board of Directors, hereby make known to all whom it may concern, that the said requisition of half a quota to be paid on or before the first day of April next, on each building insured in any town in this commonwealth, and in the town of Alexandria, has been made for the purpose aforesaid, and in pursuance of the authority vested in the President and Directors by the act aforesaid, and by the rules and regulations of the said society. And I do further hereby in pursuance also of the resolution aforesaid, notify to all persons concerned, that every insurance on which the said half quota shall be payable, under the said requisition, will be forfeited unless payment thereof, which is a sum equal to half the premium mentioned in the policy, be made at the farthest by the first day of June next, and such insurance will remain forfeited until the payment of the said half quota be withheld, and interest thereon shall be afterwards, either voluntarily made or coerced in the mode prescribed by law. AL. M'RAE, President M. A. S. At the General Office of Insurance, Richmond, Feb. 25th, 1805. (ct 24) LOST. ON Sunday Evening 3rd. Inst. on the Main-street, on Shockoe-Hill, near about the New Brick House, of Mr. Varnet A NEW RED MOROCO POCKET BOOK, containing sundry papers, which is of no use to any person but the subscriber; amongst which is a note of John Webber, payable to Jeremiah Burton, for forty Dollars, and some other amounts and articles of agreement. Any person who will deliver the said Pocket Book and its contents unto the subscriber, shall receive a reward of Five Dollars. WILLIAM NASH. March 5

Foreign Intelligence.
DECLARATION OF WAR BY SPAIN AGAINST ENGLAND. FROM THE MADRID GAZETTE.
Madrid, 14th December, 1804. His excellency St. D. Pedro Cevallos, first secretary of state and of dispatch, has communicated by royal order to all the councils...
But that cabinet, which must before have been resolved in silence, for its private purposes upon the renewal of the war with Spain, whensoever it could declare it, not with the forms and solemnities prescribed by the law of nations...
The contrast which results from all this between the conduct of the cabinets of Madrid and London would be sufficient clearly to evince to all Europe the bad faith and hidden and perverse views of the English ministry...
Orders which are barbarous, because those merit no other name which require every Spanish vessel, whose burthen is less than 100 tons, to be burnt...
Not without long actions so atrocious, which prove to demonstration the covetous and hostile views which the English cabinet had meditated...
And what greater assurances could or ought Spain to give? What civilized nation has hitherto practised such cruel and violent means of obtaining advantages from another?
Spain would not fulfil what she owes to herself, nor think she could maintain her well known honor and dignity among the other powers of Europe...
In consequence his majesty, after having directed that all English property in these dominions should be sequestered by way of reprisal...
Lastly, his majesty has resolved that the above shall be inserted in the public papers, in order that it may be generally known...
LETTER From CARDINAL MAURY to LOUIS XVIII. SIR, My present dignity owes to your Majesty's recommendation...
Sire, from principle as well as from conviction, I united with the few loyal members of the Sacred College to supplicate the Pope not to give the death blow to the Catholic Religion...
Even in a political view I proved, that this horrible act would neither procure tranquility to France, nor safety to Europe.
I am, with the most profound respect, your Majesty's most obedient, devoted, and faithful humble servant and subject.
Jean Sirey, Cardinal Maury, Bishop of Monte Falcone and Borgetto. Mon Fauchon, Oct. 2, 1804. To his Most Christian Majesty Louis XVIII. King of France & Navarre.
THIS DAY IS PUBLISHED, AND FOR SALE AT RITCHIE & WORSLEY'S BOOKSTORE: THE RICHMOND SERIES FIRST; Originally Published in the RICHMOND ENQUIRER.
ENQUIRER.
RICHMOND, MARCH 5, 1805.
CURSOR STRICTURES ON SIXTEEN COLUMNS OF THE "NORFOLK LEDGER," ON THE ACQUISITION OF LOUISIANA.
(Continued.)
"Nor is any advantage to be obtained," continues the Norfolk Ledger, "from the addition made to our population: on the contrary, we have acquired a discordant mass of people...
Even if this spirit of opposition were to be external; there is another view of the population of Louisiana which should reconcile us to its acquisition.
Let those who trace the acquisition of Louisiana through all its consequences, never lose sight of this obvious alternative.
And yet, adds the paper, were we not entitled to that security without a previous submission to tribute?
But can this question still remain a problem, susceptible of doubt? Is there yet an impartial politician in this country, who would prefer a destructive war to an honourable negotiation?
Let us finish at once these cursory strictures, pregnant with inexhaustible digression; disgraced by errors which having long since expired under the blow of criticism...
Who will turn away his eyes from these obvious advantages, to fix his attention upon evils which may never arise, or which an enlightened policy may gradually conduct away?
HIGH COURT OF IMPEACHMENT.
MONDAY, Feb. 25. The court opened at 10 o'clock A. M. Mr. Martin closed his address at about 12 o'clock.
on in relation to the six first articles, and of investigating the 7th and 8th articles.
Having at three o'clock gone through the first branch of the duty assigned him, the court adjourned for half an hour.
At the expiration of this period Mr. Hugh Holmes was called and examined on the part of the managers...
TUESDAY, Feb. 26. The court opened at 10 A. M. Mr. Nicholson addressed the court, in a speech of about two hours length, on the First Article.
He was followed by Mr. Rodney, who spoke at about one o'clock, & continued speaking until 3 o'clock; when a respite of the sitting of the court took place for half an hour.
THE FOURTH OF MARCH,
the Anniversary of Mr. Jefferson's Administration, was celebrated in this city with the customary honours.
I. The Republicans of the Union—Let them this day celebrate a New Jubilee in honor of Liberty.
II. The Day, which gave us a Republican Administration, deserves to be inscribed in the National Calendar of our Feasts.
III. Thomas Jefferson—How sink the unhallowed Crown of Bonaparte, and the Holy Oil of the Pope, before this tried and anointed Man of the American People.
IV. George Clinton—The new Vice-President from New-York.
V. George Washington and the heroes of the Revolution—Those who have established the liberty of their country, need no splendid Mausoleum to immortalize their memory.
VI. The Congress of the United States—May it no longer be disgraced by "the unblushing advocates of unblushing corruption."
VII. John Randolph—Eloquent as Chatham; as Cato, incorruptible.
VIII. The Texas Speculators—Let it become a political Talisman at the next election for Congress, by which the people may distinguish the friends from the enemies of their country.
IX. Commodore PREBLE, and the Mediterranean Squadron—"Millions for defence, not a cent for tribute."
X. Our brave and captive brethren in Tripoli—May their chains fall loosely upon them, till the honor of our country may relieve them from the oppression.
XI. Somers, Wadsworth and Israel, the Deci of America—Who nobly perishing in the waves of the Mediterranean, have obtained an imperishable monument in the hearts of their countrymen.
XII. Our 1598 impressed seamen in British vessels—May superior energies assist those whom paper protections cannot shield from violation.
XIII. Louisiana—A Rising Star in the American Constellation.
XIV. James Monroe, our minister plenipotentiary—whose talents and whose virtues have been successfully devoted to the protection of our liberties at Home, and our Rights abroad.
XV. Third Party-men—"The man who has once deserted the People can never return to them."
XVI. The Liberty of the Press—"The shield of wisdom and of virtue, behind which the people are invulnerable, in whose pure and polished convex, are the lifted blow has fallen, the tyrant beholds his own image, and is turned into iron."
XVII. The American Fair. Our Republican Brethren at the Washington Tavern—May the same sentiments of fraternity, which unite them and us to-day, ever prevail in our public rejoicings.
The Toads given at the Washington, yesterday, came too late for this day's paper; they shall certainly appear in our next.
THE HERO.
All hail to the hero whom victory leads, Triumphant, from fields of renown! From kingdoms left barren! from plains drench'd in blood! And the sacking of many a fair Town!
By letters received in Philadelphia from the Mediterranean we learn, that a duel took place between Mr. Doherty, of New-Jersey and Mr. Nicholson of Maryland...
Captain Allen, from Martinique informs us that on the 24th of Feb. a British fleet appeared before that port...
FROM THE VIRGINIA ARGUS.
MR. PLEASANTS. ON an extra sheet of your newspaper of the 6th ult. is published the following Statement, viz.
OPERATIONS OF THE ARMORY. Sum expended of the appropriation of last year, in manufacturing arms. Dols. 38,997 10. Manufacture of arms, buildings, &c. 8,453 60. Within the last twelve months have been manufactured 2,207 muskets...
DIED—On Thursday evening last, at Grotonland courthouse. Doctor John K. Read, the eldest son of Doctor K. Read, Senior, who died at Norfolk on the 10th ultimo...
RICHMOND ACADEMY LOTTERY.
Table with 4 columns: Prize Amount, Number of Prizes, Total Amount. Includes prizes of 2000, 1000, 500, 12, and 1050 undrawn.
STATE OF THE WHEEL.
Table with 3 columns: Prize Amount, Number of Prizes, Total Amount. Includes prizes of 1000, 500, 300, 100, and 1050 undrawn.
FOR SALE,
By the Subscribers, at their PAINT & OIL MANUFACTORY, Water-Street, Norfolk: WHITE LEAD, Yellow Ochre, Venetian Red, Spanish Brown, Black & Lead Colour for painting roofs...
BLANKS
Table with 3 columns: Type, Quantity, Price. Includes Bank Checks, ditto (ruled), Negotiable Notes, Foreign Bills of Exchange, Bills of Lading, County Court Clerks' Blanks, Sheriffs' ditto, Constables' Warrants.

DEBATE, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES.
WEDNESDAY, January 30. DEBATE ON THE GEORGIA CLAIMS. (Continued.)
Mr. Lucas. I am, Sir, in favor of the amendment proposed to the report now under consideration. The unparalleled fraud which has been practiced by the divers land companies...
It is an uncontested maxim of law, that none ought to be benefited by his own wrongs, this maxim applies with a double force in a contract between the sovereign authority, and private persons. The contract between the legislature and the land companies...
To the multiplicity of the radical defects with which the title of the companies claiming under the act of 1795 abound the advocates of the claim of the New-England Mississippi land company answer that none of those who compose their company had any participation in the fraud...
ped the notice of plain industrious farmers, such as are able perhaps to purchase two or three hundred acres of land; but that a company of speculators & of N. Eng. too, being about purchasing an immense quantity of land for a great sum of money...
Should this wrong not be sufficient to invalidate the contract, there is another wrong that arises from it; by the act of 1795, a re-sale was made of two millions of acres out of several tracts sold to the Georgia land companies...
While we are debating this great question, the land speculators within these walls or out of these walls are in a silent watch anxiously waiting for the measures we are going to adopt...
gress, what I could not do as an individual without blushing contracts in my opinion cannot be divided by ounces and penny weights. The titles of the companies claiming under the act of Georgia 1795 are good or bad...
Mr. Speaker, the agents of the New-England Mississippi company, have attempted to prove in their vindication, page 30th, that the sales of extensive tracts of vacant territory are not injurious to the interests of a nation...
Again, Sir, I cannot believe that it is good policy to give away an immense property, nay I believe it to be most dangerous to give it to a few families...
TO NON-RESIDENTS OF KENTUCKY.
THE SUBSCRIBER living in the neighborhood of Frankfort, Kentucky, having undertaken to pay the taxes of a number of gentlemen residing in Virginia and elsewhere...
WM. MCKENZIE & Co. HAVE FOR SALE—4000 Dollars Military Certificates, bearing interest at 6 per cent. and stock of the Bank of Virginia.
NOTICE. To facilitate to claimants under the 7th article of the treaty with Great Britain the receipt of the third installment due on the 15th July next...
JUST RECEIVED, and for sale at the Office of the ENQUIRER, a few copies of the following BOOKS: Moore's Aztec, Life of Doctor Darwin, Report of the Trial of Lord Russell...
NOTICE. The subscribers having put an end to their retail business, request the debtors to this firm to come forward, without loss of time, to have their accounts adjusted...
TO RENT, AND POSSESSION GIVEN IMMEDIATELY, A TENEMENT on Shockoe Hill, adjoining the house now occupied by Mr. John McCredie...
NEAL NELSON, BOOT & SHOE MANUFACTURER, MAIN-STREET, RICHMOND. MAKES Boots & Shoes to any pattern or fashion, equal in point of MATERIALS and WORKMANSHIP to any in general use.
VALUABLE PROPERTY FOR SALE.
WILL BE SOLD, to the highest bidder, on the premises, on the third day of April next, at 12 o'clock, an undivided moiety in the two lots of ground formerly the property of Andrew Ronald...
TO MR. CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, OF SOUTH-CAROLINA.
SIR, As you are not a resident of this Commonwealth, and have no agent or attorney within the same, to whom a legal notice can be given...
J. TOMPKINS RESPECTFULLY informs those concerned that he has removed the books and papers of the late concern of Robert Pollok & Co. and Dunlop, Pollok & Co. to a new Brick House...
NOTICE. The undersigned, partners in the late concern of BUCHANAN, DUNLOP, & Co. at Petersburg, of ROBERT POLLOK, & Co. at Richmond, and of DUNLOP, POLLOK, & Co. at Manchester...
NOTICE. All persons indebted to the late firm of BUCHANAN, DUNLOP & Co. of Petersburg, ROBERT POLLOK & CO. of Richmond, and DUNLOP, POLLOK & CO. of Manchester...
LANDS, LOTS & CANAL SHARES, FOR SALE.
On Monday, the twenty-fifth day of March next, will be exposed to Public Sale at the Eagle Tavern, in the City of Richmond, in order to close the Mercantile concern of Buchanan, Dunlop, & Co. the following TRACTS OF LAND, &c. viz.
At the same time and place and upon the same terms, will be Sold, ANOTHER TRACT OF LAND in Campbell county, containing 400 acres. At the same time and place will be sold, FIVE SHARES IN THE UPPER APPOMATTON CANAL COMPANY.
CUMBERLAND December Court, 1804. IN CHANCERY. WILLIAM CLARKE, Plaintiff. Against JANATTI RISON, THOMAS LIGON & THOMAS DENT, Defendants. This day came the plaintiff by his attorney, and the Defendant Janatti Rison not having entered his appearance and given security according to the act of Assembly...
FOR SALE. On a credit of 12 months, at the Eagle Tavern, on the 25th March ensuing. A Certain tract or parcel of LAND, lying in Patrick county on Mayo river, containing 550 acres more or less...