Virginia Argus (Richmond, Va.), 1807-12-11 00:00:00

VIRGINIA ARGUS.
[XVth YEAR.]
A FREE PRESS MAINTAINS THE SOVEREIGNTY OF THE PEOPLE.
[No. 1414.]
RICHMOND.—PRINTED (ON TUESDAYS AND FRIDAYS) BY SAMUEL PLEASANTS, JUNIOR, PRINTER TO THE COMMONWEALTH.
[Four Dollars Per Annum—paid in Advance.]
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1807.
[12 1-2 Cents Single.]
Congress.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
FRIDAY, Nov. 7.
Debate on the reference of the memorial from sundry merchants and traders of the city of Philadelphia, praying for a repeal of the non-importation law.
(Continued.)
Mr. W. ALSTON said he thought it at this time extremely improper to refer the petition, as was proposed. If any step were to be taken in regard to the prayer of the petition it should be done in committee of the whole House. If the expediency of repealing the law alluded to in the petition was to be considered, it was a plain question which would present itself to every member of the House, and could be decided without any previous reference to any inferior committee. The petition said something about instructions given to our ministers. If it were referred to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures, they might think themselves authorised to call upon the Secretary of State for information; it had therefore better be at once brought before the House, and not go to a committee; for though he felt perfect confidence in that committee, he was not willing at this crisis to entrust them with the power of calling for information which it might not be proper to communicate. In the committee of the whole a resolution might be brought forward which would determine the principle at once; he therefore moved that it be referred to the committee of the whole House.
The SPEAKER said the motion made by Mr. Alston would supersede the motion for reference to the committee of Commerce and Manufactures.
Mr. BASSET amended the motion so as to refer it to a committee of the whole on the state of the union.
Mr. SMILIX was sorry this motion was made, for it was certainly giving the memorial more importance than was attached to it by the motion of his colleague, who had introduced it. He considered the matter in a serious point of view. That there was in this country a party in favor of the British government, he had no doubt; nor did he doubt but that this memorial was intended to embarrass the operations of our government, and strengthen the British government in their measures. This was his opinion; and if other gentlemen also thought so, they would manifest it by their votes.
Mr. BASSET said it would be recollected by the House, that, urged by the same feelings which had actuated the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Rowan) he had arisen to offer his sentiments on the subject; but had been prevented by the preference given to another gentleman. He considered the subject in a different light from the gentleman last up, and did not view it merely as it affected the petitioners. Their proceedings on this memorial would go forward to the public, and shew to the world their opinions on the subject. Should they not now rouse from the slumber into which the gentleman from Pennsylvania had said they had fallen? Should they not show that they would be roused when the occasion called for it. He wished it referred to a committee of the whole on the state of the union, because the nation was particularly interested in it; not to give peculiar consequence to the petition, but because he wished the full sense of the House to be obtained on it. He had prepared a resolution before the gentleman from N. C. made his motion, declaring that the law ought not to be repealed. He thought this would have been the proper course; but as the affair now stood it was his wish to go into a committee of the whole instanter ; not out of respect to the petition, but to the community, who had been long waiting for an expression of their sentiments. What have we said, asked Mr. B.? That we will support the government and its measures? No; we have said nothing. He was for giving to the world their opinion, that as far as those measures were correct and proper, they would support them in their full extent. This was his reason for wishing it referred to the committee of the whole on the state of the union.
Mr. CHANDLER said he could not say whether the subscribers to the petition were American citizens or British subjects residing in our cities. If he were to judge from the language and terms which it conveyed, he should strongly suspect that they were of the latter class of people. If he were certain of that, he should wish the petition not to be noticed at all; but as he was not perfectly convinced of it, he wished it to be on the table. If it were necessary to take up the subject they could at any time go into a committee of the whole on the state of the union, without the assistance of the petition.
Mr. SOUTHARD said that the language of the petitioners was decent, but their object, the time of their application, and the observations which they had made, he thought extremely improper. The petition contained insinuations that the Executive had taken too high ground, and demanded things that were improper; he therefore thought the memorial was not entitled to that countenance from the House which it would appear to receive by a reference to a committee of the whole. He differed in opinion with the gentleman from Virginia just sat down, who thought this memorial should rouse their feelings; he thought it should stand on its own merits. The subject was in the hands of a committee, who would soon make a report, and
they might then display their feelings. When the law in question was passed, he thought some steps were necessary to be taken to convince the British government, that they would not calmly put up with all their injuries, but would resent them. He believed this law would have that effect, and that Congress ought to pass it; and having taken this ground he would not retreat—this was no time for retreating; he would much rather advance. The petitioners had chosen a very unfortunate time for their prayer, when a negotiation was actually pending. What would be the effect of a reference of the memorial? It would strengthen the measures of the British government; they would suppose that the House repented of its conduct. This would be the effect as respected G. Britain. What would be its effect as respected our government? It would as a necessary consequence weaken their hands. He was willing to treat the petitioners with respect, as he did not know whether they were British agents or American citizens; but he trusted the motion for reference to a committee of the whole would not prevail as he could see no one reason for it.
(Debate to be continued.)
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 30.
Debate on Fortifications.
(CONCLUDED.)
Mr. THOMAS said that the committee had declared in their resolution, that they would authorise the President to erect such fortifications as would preserve a due respect to the national authority; and he had no doubt, after having made the declaration, they would fill the blank with any sum that might be sufficient to effect the object. He did not mistrust the intentions of the committee; he believed they would make a liberal appropriation to this object, and was sorry that his colleague (Mr. Gardenier) had raised to view so many visionary fabrics. Mr. T. did not think that either the legislature or executive had been dilatory, as that gentleman seemed to think. It was known that there had been last year an appropriation of 800,000 dollars for the contemplated purpose; the secretary of war had employed as many laborers as he had been able to procure, in the erection of forts at New-York and other places, during the past summer; and a balance of this money yet remained unexpended. The committee had declared through their chairman that some part of the appropriation called for in case of war, would be expended in so precipitate a manner, as not to form permanent fortifications. He did not believe that the position was correct, that they ought to make as large an appropriation for peace as for war; because in case of war it would be absolutely necessary to reinforce those fortifications already erected by considerable additions. He had no objection now to fill up the blank; but he thought the pledge contained in the resolution was sufficient, as it declared positively, that they would effect the desired object.
Mr. QUINCY merely rose to express his wish that the chairman of the committee would make some proposition as to the sum. He was of opinion with the gentleman from New-York, that to ascertain the sum to be appropriated was the object of going into committee of the whole.
Mr. ALSTON hoped that in this stage of the business no sum would be applied; it was enough for the House to say whether they would or would not adopt the principle contained in the resolution. The question of how much money was not in his mind the great question; for if they passed a law effectually to protect our ports and harbors, it followed of course that they would appropriate a sufficient sum to answer the purpose. The sum, however, had been spoken of, and the gentlemen from New-York and Massachusetts seemed in favor of the filling the blank immediately; from what had fallen from the gentleman from New-York, (Mr. Gardenier) he was induced to believe that no member of the House could propose a sum sufficient to satisfy him. That gentleman appeared to be full of invective and abuse against the government. Was it to be expected that the House would accommodate itself to the wishes of that gentleman when conveyed in such language. He hoped the House would pursue its usual course, and decide first on the principle; when the bill was brought in, the blanks might be filled, the question being first taken on the largest sum, which would no doubt be proposed by the gentleman from New-York. He hoped other gentlemen in the House were quite as well disposed to defend their country as the gentleman from New-York; they might not perhaps talk so much, but would manifest their dispositions by their acts.
Mr. BLOUNT said the committee had contemplated the effectual protection of our ports and harbors, and directed their attention particularly to that object. The information which had been given them did not contemplate a system of defence by fortifications alone, which would cost 874,000 dollars; but with the aid of gun-boats, which would cost perhaps a much larger sum. He moved, to try the sense of the committee, that the blank be filled with 750,000 dollars, which, with an unexpended sum of perhaps 123,000, would make the aggregate proposed.
Mr. MASTERS moved that it be filled with 1,500,000 dollars. Mr. BACON called for the reading of the report of the secretary of war which had been received by the committee. Mr. CRANLER said that paper did not contain the particular sum, which could
not be precisely ascertained. He would answer in reply to the gentleman who enquired why no sum had been proposed, that the secretary of war had informed the committee of aggressions, that the sum of 250 or 300,000 dollars would be sufficient for the expenditure of one year, except in case of immediate war, when a larger sum would be necessary; and this reason had induced the committee to wish that the blank should now be filled.
Mr. QUINCY said, if he had understood the chairman of the committee correctly, there was some reason against publishing the paper just alluded to; if so he did not wish to trouble the House; but if it were not, he hoped it would be read.
Mr. BLOUNT said he had before stated that the secretary of war had not been formerly called upon for information, but had communicated it verbally. Having done so, the committee asked him to make a statement in general terms, as they did not wish the enemy to know what particular species of fortification might be contemplated. If it should be thought that the House should have information from the department of war, Mr. B. hoped the secretary would be called upon to furnish it, that he might give it more formally than was contained in this paper. The committee had adopted the course of verbal communication, because it had been pursued by a similar committee at a former session; the statement contained in this paper was very informal, and he hoped it would not be printed in that state.
Mr. COOK was opposed to filling the blank at this time from want of information. He wished to see a statement of the sums that would be necessary to put every part of the U. S. in such a state of defence as that embraced by the resolution. If gentlemen would give themselves the trouble to count their fingers, they would find that the sum of 750,000 dollars was by no means sufficient. As he thought it probable they might receive more information before it was necessary to fill the blank in the bill, he hoped the sum would be agreed to at this time.
Mr. MASTERS. I am happy that this subject is before the committee of the whole House, which has been too often and too long neglected. Tho' I moved that the blank be filled with the sum of fifteen hundred thousand dollars, yet I think that sum too small to fortify, efficiently, our extended sea coast; but I suppose it is as much as can be economically and advantageously expended in one year.
I believe the policy this nation has pursued ought to be abandoned. I do not mean to criminate the administration. I believe the government and those who have administered it, have dealt justly with all nations, excepting national justice in return; I am convinced that national justice and national friendship are idle as the wind that blows, and that there is no such thing as national justice to be expected in times like these. We must depend on our own strength, and not on national justice. Our government have calculated on preserving peace by pursuing a fair and impartial neutrality, and that those difficulties which might arise between us and any of the European powers, might be amicably settled and adjusted by friendly negotiation. If we turn our attention to the conduct of the European powers, the stronger is always the weaker, it will prove incontestibly that national justice is at an end. What has been the national justice of France towards Holland, Prussia, all the petty states of Germany, Italy, and in short all the powers of the continent? It is conquest, domination, and tearing up by the roots every vestige of civil liberty, and annihilating the national rights of those powers.
The national justice of G. Britain in India has extirpated every prince and nation in that quarter; and what has been her national justice towards Denmark? History does not give an account of such base conduct as the attack on Copenhagen. America herself has not kept a more fair and impartial neutrality than Denmark. Such is the national justice between the nations of Europe. Notwithstanding the government of this nation has with honest sincerity, dealt justly towards all nations, who will seek in vain to find a single act of aggression on our part, let us see what kind of national justice we have received in return. Spain has violated her faith, refused indemnity for spoliations committed on our commerce, actually invaded our territory by an armed force, and her minister countenanced in insulting our government and country.
If we turn to France we shall find she has, under the curtain, pricked up Spain to commit unwarrantable aggressions, and her privateersmen have now and then sung Te Deum on board of some of our most valuable merchant ships and condemned them.
If we turn to G. Britain, we shall find her return of national justice and friendship is by attacking one of our armed vessels and shedding the blood of our countrymen. I will not dwell on this subject of the frigate Chesapeake, so well known—I cannot speak or reflect on the subject without indignation. She has almost ruined our commerce in the Mediterranean seas; she has captured our vessels bound to Antwerp in French Flanders, and to the ports in Holland, France and Spain; she has blockaded our ports, pressed our seamen, violated our territory, added insult to injury and aggression, wounded the pride and feelings of the American people, and endeavored to degrade and injure, in the eyes of the world, our national honor and character.
The policy of trusting to national justice,
at the outset, might be proper. It was of importance to have time to gain strength, which this nation just begins to feel; that policy ought now to be at an end; it proves theoretical and visionary. It has long since been necessary to pursue measures of general defence. Neither would I trust too much to gun-boats; they are useful auxiliaries, and I will vote for an increase of their numbers. They are good in their place, and so are proclamations, when you have energy and force to compel an observance. I am for trusting no longer to proclamations; they are a conductor of disgrace to the nation. The answer of the commander of the sloop of war Driver , while lying in our harbor at Charleston, was insolent and contemptuous. The answer of the commander of the insignificant fleet, yet lying in Lynhaven Bay, was, that they would batter down the town of Norfolk. You always will and must expect to be insulted, unless you pursue the policy of general defence. I hope to see our coasts lined with forts and batteries at suitable and proper places, and our harbors filled with frigates and gun-boats, with some block ships; and were it not esteemed heresy by some, I would say a few seventy-gun ships. Such is my opinion of the necessity and utility of some heavier ships, that I feel it my duty as a faithful representative, to express it. Our situation is critical, and our foreign relations are gloomy. The affairs of the nation require serious and grave deliberation, and all our wisdom, but above all, unanimity. Away, therefore, with wretched party spirit, and party violence. I do not mean to be understood as giving an opinion that war will be inevitable; I only wish to be prepared for it.
It is a correct maxim, that nations will pursue that course which is most for their interest, and would the men now in power, in the British nation, look forward for years to come, they would say their interest was peace with the U. States of America; but it is to be recollected, that those men in power calculate on the termination of that power forever on the death of the king, which they believe from the infirmity of his age will soon happen; they, therefore calculate for the moment.
To Congress the nation turn their eyes, justly expecting we will afford them protection; upon which they place their hope for public security; which will give confidence and vigor to the nation. Our rank and station will be decided among the powers of Europe by the vote we give this day. Let us behold this nation at this alarming crisis looking boldly the nations of the earth in the face, by appropriating liberal means for a spirited and permanent plan of defence. The propriety and necessity of adopting measures for fortifications appear to me to be universally allowed, not only among the European powers, but is the sense of this nation, as far as I can judge.
The legislature of the state of New-York, by their resolutions now on your table, signed by the President of their Senate and Speaker of the House of Representatives, have invited and requested the attention of Congress to this important subject, and immediate steps ought to be taken to make ample provision for that purpose. The community in general are alive to the subject; the people of this country are jealous of their rights, and are disposed to defend them. The system of permanent fortifications ought, from its nature, to be the greatest care of the government. It is a system upon which rests the security of national defence. In case of war, the situation of the nation must be calamitous, indeed, for the want of fortifications. The history of all civilized nations will prove, that fortifications were and still are part of their valuable system of defence; and that they have and do keep fortified their most important cities and towns. This system has been uniformly practised and encouraged by the most brave, powerful and experienced nations. Let us therefore resort to that experience and observation, and lay aside useless theory. At both of the sessions of the last Congress the subject of fortifications was urged for consideration and voted down. Are we willing to take upon ourselves the hazard of the calamitous consequences that may happen to the nation, and stand responsible to our constituents and posterity, by a repetition of the same vote? I am not. If we take a view of the relative situation of the European powers, their strength, their resources, their objects and prospects, we shall have but one feeling, we shall pay a due regard to self-defence, and shall be in a state of preparation for events.
Mr. SMILIX observed from what had been said by the gentleman from New-York on this subject, he thought the House would not accommodate him with such a sum as would please him. When the gentleman contemplated such great preparations for fortifications, had he cast a single thought on the means now in our possession? Did he believe that all they could spare if solely applied to fortifications, would be sufficient to effect the object he appeared to have in view? If he did, Mr. S. did not. It signified nothing to be talking about the injuries they had received. They were in a critical situation, and all sensible that they ought to exert themselves; they might differ with respect to the money necessary to be applied for fortifications, but he took it for granted, that there was not a man in the House who was not willing to prepare for defence. He was willing to apply money for the purpose of fortification; but there were also other means of defence necessary. Had the gentleman thought at all on what appropriations might be necessary for the military? If they had war, they must have
a large army, and a large sum of money must be applied for its support. Now would any gentleman pretend to say, that by taking 1,500,000 dollars, or a larger sum or the purpose of fortification, that they would have sufficient means left for other purposes of defence? He thought not; because if they had war, although it would be a war in their own defence, they must act on the offensive in one quarter, and if they did, it must be seen how improper it would be to weaken themselves so as not to leave the necessary sum for that purpose. A stranger hearing the gentleman from New-York (Mr. Gardenier) talk on this subject, might suppose that the House had no disposition to fortify, and the gentleman had said, that if they now refused to fill up the blank, he should doubt their sincerity. Would the gentleman say that he had more at stake than any other gentleman in the House? He presumed not; and if not, why should the gentleman doubt that the House would act when the proper time came. With respect to the city of New-York, Mr. S. was well disposed to give her enough to put her in a state of defence; though he did not agree with the position of the gentleman, that our cities were the sources of wealth, and support of government. Mr. S. thought the cultivators of the soil were the supporters of the government. Between the two descriptions of men, he would say, and he hoped he was not going beyond the mark when he said it, that the cultivators of the soil were at least as necessary to the country as the merchants who exported their produce, who were but the hand, as it were to the great body of the community. He did not mean, in what he had said and was about to say, to intimate any thing against the merchants, whom he considered as a respectable class of citizens; but this they all knew, that if there were no such things as ships belonging to the U. S. our produce would be exported, and our farmers could support themselves. He was sorry that the chairman had moved to fill up the blank: If the question were taken, he should vote in favor of the sum proposed by that gentleman; yet he thought it necessary to reserve some part of their treasure for carrying on war in other quarters than in their ports.
Mr. NEWTON would not now enter at large upon the subject, because it appeared to him that there was no hostility to the principle of the resolution from any part of the House; he thought it was improper at this time to fill up the blanks in the bill; he thought so because it was contrary to the course hitherto pursued, and they were now entering upon that subject which should properly be discussed in committee of the whole on the bill.
Mr. GARDENIER said that when a question of such deep interest, of such great importance, was agitated, it would be well, he intreated gentlemen, to repress their passion for personal altercation. The subject was too interesting, too momentous, to permit him to go out of his way, to switch any body who might have taken it into his head, to be impertinent to him. It might be, he said, that when he was first up, he had not couched his demands of fortification and protection, in the courteous style of entreaty. Coming into that House with all the feelings and all the earnestness of the people he represented, he could not beg from the clarity of the government, that which he had a right to demand from its justice; that which had been denied hitherto, and the necessity of granting which, the perilous state of the country now rendered evident, and indisputable. The gentleman from Pennsylvania, (Mr. Smilix,) had enquired whether he (Mr. G.) was more interested than others. I am not acting here (said Mr. G.) in my individual capacity; I am here a representative of the state of New-York, and as such the interest I have in this matter is of the very first importance—of the very first magnitude. The gentleman from Pennsylvania, (Mr. Smilix,) had represented him as expressing doubts of the patriotism of the House. No so. He did not see, that because he pressed and even with zeal, his demands for protection, that he was therefore to be considered to doubt the patriotism of those whom he addressed. Quite the reverse. He, who claims rights should descend neither to the attitude of humility, nor to the language of supplication. Again the same gentleman had endeavored to make him say, that the cities were the sources of wealth. He had said no such thing. He had said the cities were the sources from which all our revenue flowed directly into the national treasury, and that they ought for that, if no other reason, to be the first objects of our care. They were of all parts of the Union the most vulnerable; they were the hen that laid the golden eggs, and ought to be therefore cherished and protected with peculiar solicitude. He hoped and trusted, that no unnecessary delay would take place. The people of your cities, said he, are anxiously awaiting your decision. Their fortunes and their lives may at some period, and probably not a distant one, depend on the magnitude of the approp. & ton you are about to make. Whether the present negotiations eventuate in war, or in peace, their rights and your duty is the same. Suppose that by some miracle we should be snatched from the precipice at this time, can we flatter ourselves (he asked) with an eternal exemption from the calamities of war? Shall we flatter ourselves that that will be allowed to the most favored people, and uninterrupted peace? If not, are we willing, can we answer it to our country if with our present experience we subject ourselves to be caught again in the

same condition we are now, without fortifications—unprotected and defenceless? If we were to delay vigorous measures, we might continue to delay till the present temper of the nation was frittered away by negotiations and discussions running into endless details. Why should not that happen again which had happened already? Had not (he asked) the actual territory of the United States been invaded by Spain. And had it not been negotiated and treated upon year after year, till at last there remained perhaps not more than one in fifty of our countrymen, who remembered that we had at this very moment a just cause of war against Spain?
Sir, (said he) now is the propitious moment. At this crisis, every one will join us, in advocating the necessity of fortifying our ports and harbors. The nation will now bear to have large appropriations made for this great and important purpose. The people will be pleased now, if you proceed with alacrity, and the popularity of the administration will not be endangered by the measure. Every reason, therefore, every argument was decidedly in favor of celerity and fortunately no less so in favor of liberality.
The gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Smilie) had asked where are our means? Our means, sir? (said Mr. G.) Our means are in the wealth, in the resources of our country and in the stout hearts of our countrymen. These are the means which established, these are the means on which we may safely rely to perpetuate the independence of the American nation. Let us go on then, to the work—for once let the national treasure be expended for the national defence. If we do not enter upon it now we probably never shall. We shall continue to wait like the eagle in the fable who did not build a house when the sun shone, because then he did not want it—nor when the storm raged because then he could not do it.
He concluded with moving in order to try the sense of the House to fill up the blank with four millions.
Mr. QUINCY said the gentleman from N. C. (Mr. Blount) had with his usual candor answered the enquiries which had been made as to the views of the committee. He did not rise now to make observations on the different sums proposed, but merely to know of the chairman of the committee the species of information which had induced the committee to fix on the sum of 750,000 dollars. He understood from the chairman and another gentleman, who was a member of that committee, that they had not the sums in detail as related to each particular port, but only the sum in gross. He observed, that in the report of the Secretary of war, there were two classes of ports or harbors mentioned as requiring fortification, those called more important, and those of minor importance. If the blank were filled with 750,000 dollars, it would only average about 17,000 dollars to each port mentioned; now he conceived that every port which required fortification, would require more than that. He wished to know if information on this subject existed anywhere, so that it might be procured. Some observation had been made by the chairman as to what might be expended in a year, and he had said that no more than 500,000 dollars could be conveniently expended in a year in case of peace. If they were to suppose that only the fifteen mentioned as ports of the most importance, were to be fortified during this year, it would be but 50,000 dollars for each. Was it possible that more could not be expended.
(Debate to be concluded in our next.)
FRIDAY, December 5. The Speaker laid before the House a letter from the Secretary of the Treasury, including an estimate of the appropriations necessary for the service of the year 1808, an account of the receipts & expenditures for the year past, and an account of the balances of former appropriations remaining unexpended; which was referred to the committee of Ways and Means.
The bill from the Senate, making an appropriation for the more effectual defence of the ports and harbors of the U. S. was read twice and referred to the same committee of the whole to whom was referred the bill for fortifying our ports and harbors and building gun boats.
The unfinished business of yesterday, on Mr. Randolph's resolutions, was then taken up.
The yeas and nays being about to be called as agreed to yesterday on the second resolution.
Mr. Eppes moved to amend it by striking out the words, "the whole body of the militia of the United States," and insert "a thousand of the militia of the United States and for arming annually hereafter, a thousand, until the whole body of the militia of the United States shall be armed."
The yeas and nays were agreed to be taken on this amendment.
A debate ensued (in which Messrs. Chandler, Bacon, Wetherell and Southard took part) on the principle of the resolution.
Mr. Randolph, to prevent more delay taking place from the consideration of amendments, and to expedite the business, that the bill for the defence of the sea-ports might be taken up, moved for the previous question on the amendment.
Mr. Speaker said that the previous question could not be taken on an amendment, the question being in this form, "shall the main question be now put?"
Mr. Randolph contended that the amendment under consideration was the main question.
Mr. Stanford, with all deference to the Speaker's decision, made an appeal to the House from his decision, in order that the principle might be now fixed.
A considerable debate took place on this motion.
Mr. Eppes, who protested against the principle supported by the advocates of a decision contrary to that made by the Speaker as tending to destroy the rights of a minority in Congress by excluding debate on any question, called for the yeas and nays.
The question was then put by yeas and nays, "is the decision of the Speaker correct?" and carried in the affirmative. Yeas 111—Nays 16.
Mr. Randolph asked for a division of the question on the amendment, so as to take the question first on striking out the words proposed to be expunged, and after for the yeas and nays.
The question was taken by Yeas and Nays on striking out, and lost—Yeas 48 Nays 78.
Mr. Eppes said since his purpose had been defeated by a division of the question, and as he should vote against the original resolution, and wished to show by his vote to what extent he would go, he would submit an amendment, on which he wished no debate, and called for the yeas and nays upon it. He then moved to insert at the end of the resolution these words: "By providing at the present time for the purchase of a thousand arms, and annually hereafter for the purchase or manufacture of a thousand until the same shall be completed."
The question was taken on this amendment, and lost—Yeas 41—Nays 86.
The question recurring on the original resolution, Messrs. Quincy and Nichols assigned their reasons for voting in favor of it, and Messrs. Tallmadge, Alston, and Ely, for voting against it; when
The main question on the second resolution was decided by Yeas and Nays—Yeas 72—Nays 55.
A motion was made to adjourn and lost.
The question was then taken on the 3d resolution offered by Mr. Randolph, for providing a formidable train of artillery, and carried without a division.
On motion of Mr. Randolph the first resolution was referred to a select committee, which consists of Messrs. Randolph, Elliott, Cobb, Macon and Kelly; & the second to a select committee, which consists of Messrs. Randolph, Ely, Tallmadge, Lloyd, Stanford, Mumford and Smilie.
On motion of Mr. Blount, the third was referred to the committee to whom was referred so much of the message of the President of the U. S. as relates to our military and naval establishments.
Mr. Randolph said, that on this day a decision on a point of order had taken place, and been confirmed by the House. Upon looking back to the journals of a former Congress he had found a precedent, where a previous question had been taken, not only on an amendment, but on an amendment to an amendment. His object in rising at this time was not to question the correctness of the decision of the chair, much less the motives which induced that decision; but it appeared to him that if this precedent had been produced to the House previous to the confirmation of the decision of the Speaker, their vote would have been different. For this reason, and to obviate difficulties which daily occurred, he should move that the clerk of the House be directed to make a compilation from the journals for the use of the House, of all decisions on points of order which had taken place since the government went into operation. Mr. R. introduced a resolution to that effect, which he wished to lie on the table.
The House then adjourned till Monday morning.
SENATE UNITED STATES December 3.
Dr. Mitchell reported the following bill. Making an appropriation for the more effectual defence of the ports and harbors of the U. S.
Be it enacted, &c. That for enabling the President to put the ports and harbors of the U. S. in a better state of defence, a sum not exceeding _____ dollars, be, and the same is hereby appropriated, to be paid out of any monies in the treasury, not otherwise appropriated.
December 4.
Mr. Pope, from the committee appointed on the subject reported a bill supplementary to an act entitled an act fixing the military peace establishment of the U. S.
This bill authorises the President to raise one regiment of Infantry, and one battalion of Cavalry.
Mr. RANDOLPH introduced the resolutions inserted in our last paper, with the following remarks. He said that as long as the subject of national defence was in possession of a respectable committee of the House, and as long as their report was pending before it, he had deemed it, if not improper, at least unavailing in him, to offer any thing upon that subject. But, that committee having reported, he saw, from the course which the debate had taken yesterday, a necessity, so pressing that he could no longer dispense with it, for offering some propositions on this most important subject. These propositions grew out of the almost universal impression which seemed to exist that there was but one peculiar mode of defence to which the nation could turn itself in this perilous juncture of their affairs. When so great an appropriation was demanded for this favorite expedient, he feared, that if other plans of defence, which had at least as high claims to the public attention, were not now brought forward, they might hereafter find an empty treasury, and be compelled to resort to the system of loans, recommended by the head of that department, as the only means, however precarious, of providing for them.
It had always been his opinion, that whether in war or in peace, there was one system of national defence which ought sedulously to be cherished and concerning which there could not exist a contrariety of opinion between any two men in that House, or out of it; and he had hoped that the attention of the committees (for there were more than one) would have been directed towards it. Were they not told, and was it not self-evident, that if matters came to the last extremity, we should not only have an extensive frontier exposed to the inroads of the enemy's continental possessions, but that a vast line of country from Detroit to Natchitoches would have the native savages at their disposal and almost defenceless population? Did there exist then no necessity for defence but of a few places on the coast, the deposits of privileged wealth, when the whole line of back settlements were left at the mercy of the enemy and their savage adherents, without a force, even upon paper, to protect them. If it should be said that there existed no obligation on the union gratuitously to bestow arms upon the individual
states, which had failed to furnish themselves, the same reason would apply yet more forcibly to the fortification of states which had neglected to provide that species of self-defence. In the one case the arms issued were still the general property, at all times disposable for the good of the whole; in the other, the fortifications were so much real estate vested in the country where they were erected—fixtures to the freehold. It appeared to him that, whether they considered themselves to be in a state of profound peace, or on the eve of war, or (as he feared would prove to be the case) in actual war, it behoove them to arm the natural defence of their country, to rely, as had been said by a gentleman from New York, not upon delusive theory but established practice; upon that which, heretofore, had carried them triumphant through danger, and upon which, when they could no longer depend, there was an end of our existence as a nation.
There was another subject to which he hoped the committee would also have turned their attention—one on which, as on the first, no two men could differ—not like gun-boats, perishable in its nature and susceptible of dispute as to its utility—which remained to be tested by experience—a train of formidable artillery, that might not only oppose the enemy in a particular harbor, but calculated to change its position, to bear upon his armed vessels wherever they might lie, to compel him to quit our waters, and, even if he should effect a landing, confront him under any possible change of circumstances. He was the more inclined to hope that his opinion would prevail upon this subject when he heard a gentleman whose influence was almost decisive in that House—he trusted that it was deserved—declare that terra firma was our natural element—that it was madness to dream of coping with the enemy on his own vantage ground—and yet all the provision which they had thought of making was to fight him with his own weapons. He reminded the House with what striking effect his friend from Maryland, (Mr. R. Nelson) whose military experience entitled him to peculiar weight in this matter, had on a former occasion cautioned them, that erect what fortifications they might, the enemy were not obliged to lie before them—that ships of war were a moveable force on the water, and to be resisted with effect must be opposed by a moveable force on the land.
These were the two leading measures which were impressed on his mind as proper to be adopted. Muskets in the hands of our citizens, and cannon in our arsenals, were so much national wealth, even exclusive of the idea of present national danger. The uses to which they were to be applied under any possible emergency were not susceptible of dispute. No man could arraign this as a visionary plan of defence, as had been done with respect to gun-boats and fortifications. Upon them however he should say nothing at present, except that he thought his the preferable mode of defence, and one entitled to be provided for, before the Treasury should be drained for less worthy purposes.
But there was another and more important measure, which ought to precede any step which the House might take for defence. It was a measure of justice—which would not only entitle them to success, but was eminently calculated to ensure it—a measure which would unite all hearts and serve every hand in the cause of their country. It was to do away the stigma of suffering those who had fought and died in their service, to starve in the streets. With what face could the government call upon the youth of the nation to turn out in the public defence, when their eyes were every where assailed by the spectacle of their countrymen and kindred, veterans of the revolution, who had raised the proud fabric of our independence begging from door to door a morsel of bread. It was impossible to contemplate the condition of these gallant men, who, after giving to their country every thing, were consigned by it to beggary and want, without sensations of indignation and same, as well as of commiseration. But it is a subject (said Mr. R.) on which I will say no more—I cannot supply feelings to those who are destitute of them—and I should as soon undertake to raise the very dead as to excite those whom the subject itself is unable to move. He concluded by offering three resolutions calculated to meet the objects which he had in view. Professing himself, at the same time, willing to submit to any amendment, which did not alter their substance. [He then read in his place the resolutions, which may be found in our last.]
Before he handed these resolutions to the chair Mr. R. said he would obviate an objection which might be made to the first—that they had already a law to provide for these persons. To the disgrace of the statute book they had a pension law. What was the provision? That a man who had incurred disability by known wounds during the revolutionary war, after being tied down to the most minute proofs, which, in most cases, from the death or removal of his old companions in arms, he was unable to give, although the fact might be of general notoriety, was, if he could surmount all the difficulties thrown in his way, entitled to a miserable annuity to take care, not from the time when the disability was incurred, but from the time when his claim should be established. So that the man whose keen sensibility had restrained him from applying to the public for relief, who had struggled on, in the hope of better days, till the last gasp, was put off with a pension, which so far from discharging the petty debts which he might have contracted previous to his application, would hardly keep soul and body together. When if his pension were to take date from the time of the service being rendered, as in common justice it ought to do, he might be placed in comparatively easy circumstances.
FROM THE AURORA.
LETTER THE FOURTH.
TO JOHN MARSHALL,
CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE UNITED STATES.
Sir—You appear to have premeditatedly formed a determination in the case of Burr's conspiracy, which all the ingenuity of your faculties, and all the experience of your life in legal and legislative proceedings, were necessary to
attain to favor him in any plausible or practicable shape. But the difficulties in which you involved yourself in support of your resolution, drove you into a series of perplexities, from which you have not been able to extricate yourself. Like systematic liars, who progress from the commission of one dishonest imposition, to the invention of a thousand to give the original support; from a momentary success, become professional deceivers.
Disarming men in the magnitude, the volume, the extravagant length of the opinion you have given in Burr's case, only a stratagem to defeat that general spirit of investigation, which brings public men, their actions, and opinions, before the eye of the people. By their magnitude, you are supposed to have calculated to exceed the bounds of ordinary patience, or the powers of discrimination in the great body of the nation. And by the same means you saw that the multitude of opinions, however much at variance with each other, and with justice, would still afford the partisans of Burr and your friends, who are now considered as the same party, a sufficient quantity of points of argument to oppose to others, which might be adduced from the same opinions, to countenance every species of public crime.
My object was not at once to go into an analysis of your opinions in detail. There is in every human countenance, some feature which strikes the vision at the first sight—and your opinions are of that character. I have seized upon a few prominent features only; and consider the task which I had voluntarily undertaken, already finished. It will not be supposed that I have stopped at this preliminary stage of proceeding because I have reached the last point of your partiality and guilt, but because they need no further proof. They do not give you credit for that constancy of attachment which you have manifested, who suppose that you would desert your protege before he had experienced the ne plus ultra of your possible assistance.
To comment upon every evidence of partiality and illegal bias which your conduct has afforded would render necessary the introduction of every opinion, and almost every obiter dictum which you have pronounced from the commencement of the examination to the time of Burr's recognition to appear in Ohio.
The footsteps of your infidelity, may be traced from the commencement to the termination of that gloomy path which treason has trodden through the dark forest of law precedents, and the windings of the barren desert of judicial learning. But it is not necessary for my purpose that you should be followed through the fight wilderness or the fruitless plain.
To men of liberal and unbiased minds, nothing more than the statement of a few facts was necessary to support, the charges which I have alleged against you. They would listen with impatience to a larger enumeration of shameful partialities, criminal abuses of discretion, and disgraceful prostrations of judicial dignity. With them, the detail of many facts proving the same thing, would be as superfluous as the introduction of an hundred witnesses to swear in court to the existence of a fact already established by the oaths of twenty men of unquestioned veracity.
But "there is a party" in this country who will adhere to you in spite of the clearest demonstration of the pernicious tendency of your principles, and whose attachment will be increased by every deviation which you make from the "path of judicial duty."
All attempts by the force of arguments or facts to detach them from you will be vain. Should I even follow you through the labyrinth of perversion and partiality, the portal only of which I have entered, they would still declare that you had been guided through its mazes by the unerring line of right and truth, and not by the siren song of sophistry and guilt.
With this party a direction of the guilty, does not follow a conviction of their guilt. The certainty of your sins therefore only serves to strengthen their attachment.
The circumstances of your dining with a man, the probability of whose guilt you had pronounced your patient attention to indecorous slang and scurrilous abuse of the executive branch of the federal government—your soul discovering lapsus linguae, about the wishes of the government to convict Burr—your insulting the counsel of the United States, by including them in a general remark, occasioned not by the "unprincipled and unfounded" assertions of Luther Martin, who was constantly excited by habitual intoxication to the language of Billingsgate, and whom you ought to have sent to the stocks—but by the expression of Mr. M c Rae's honest indignation.
Your perfect disregard to the dignity of the court, in neglecting to censure Martin individually for his blackguard effusions of spleen and brandy, and yet insulting the gentlemen of counsel on both sides by a general observation—all these things, besides superior services in opinions and explanations of opinions, serve only to endear you to your party, the worst enemies of the United States.
For these reasons I shall now comment on them—I do not wish to prolong their feast, by a farther analysis of your conduct, so grateful to them, or to disgust the honest, by adding more instances in evidence of your guilt, and the degraded dignity of the station you now occupy.
Could I, however, be instrumental in removing you from the elevation which you have dishonored by the reflection of your crimes, I would still trace you through the intricate windings of a trial rendered most remarkable for screening a criminal and degrading a judge.
But, sir, I have very little faith in the efficacy of impeachment, and do not wish to see you merely chased—I wish to see the evil you have done, noticed as it should be by the constituted authorities; and proper guards set up. You cannot, however, explain away these charges, as you have done to defend the country against the outrages of traitors and treasonous magistrates—the meaning of a decision of the supreme court of the United States, (until now thought binding on the district courts of the U. States) on a late occasion, to serve a particular purpose, depending, no doubt, on the weight of your judicial character, for the acquiescence of the patine juges of the supreme court, in your subsequent explanation.
There is, sir, a wide discrimination between the perception of a plain truth, and the easy detection and exposure of a sophistical argument; or of a false but specious construction of technical phrases and legal language. And there is still a wider discrimination between the power of performing the trick of legal legerdemain, and a capacity to discern their deceptions. Although long continued practice may have given you uncommon facility in performing all the juggle of a judicial face, and your countrymen have not acquired the practical power of performance, yet nature has kindly given them the "common sense" to perceive the dextrous deceptions of even a chief judge.
You cannot deprive them of "common sense" or "save" yourself from its "deductions."
There is a striking similarity in the situation of the man you have screened and your
own—morally guilty, in common sense guilty, but not guilty within the pretended limits of the constitution—essentially, but not formally guilty; traitors in heart and in fact, but not in punishable appearance—remarkable for the possession of great talents, & the perpetration of great political crimes—for the actual enjoyment of more liberty than the citizens of any other country, and for unwavering attempts to destroy it. Both attempting to subvert a government, almost the highest offices of which they enjoyed—both detected and neither punished!! Such a criminal and such a judge, few countries have ever produced. They seem destined to answer the purposes of each other.
How different are these remarks, from those which both yourself and Aaron Burr might have merited, and which would certainly have been made, on different courses of conduct, and dissimilar applications of talents!! But you are forever doomed to blot the fair page of American history, to be held up, as examples of infamy and disgrace, of perverted talents and unpunished criminality, of foes to liberty and traitors to your country.
A conviction that these remarks are true, must be painful to every "American, in heart and in sentiment," and to none can be more so, than to him, who by exposing their truth has only done his duty, unless it be those, on whose bosoms detection or conscience may have inflicted a deeper wound.
I now, sir, take my leave of you, I hope forever. In doing this, I will not suppress the wish of my heart—that you may soon cease to occupy a station the duties of which, I conscientiously believe you have not discharged "to the best of your knowledge and ability," but have used as engines to immure your country—and that you may in the tranquil shade of retirement, (if it can be tranquil to the guilty,) discharge the duties of a man, more honorable than you have done those of a citizen, and in such a manner as to justify a belief, that "the most reprobate will repent, the most guilty reform, and the most hardened sinner be forgiven."
LUCIUS.
LATEST FROM ENGLAND.
NEW-YORK, December 3. Extract of a letter from Liverpool, dated Oct. 17.
"Mr. Rose is appointed Envoy extraordinary to the U. States; and Admiral Sir John Borlase Warren, supercedes Admiral Berkeley. They have both taken leave of his majesty. Mr. Monroe left London on the 14th of October for Cowes, to embark on board the Augusta for America.
"By accounts received this day, it appears that the Royal Family of Portugal have not resolution to withdraw into their supposed intention of withdrawing to the Brazils, but have assented to the demands of France, by which the ports of that country are to be shut against us."
Another letter from Liverpool, of Oct. 17, says, "George Rose is about embarking on a special mission, to the United States."
[Mr. Rose, mentioned in the above letters we learn, was private secretary to the late Mr. Pitt.]
The brig Leopard, Capt. Jordan, arrived at this port yesterday afternoon from Liverpool. She left there on the 19th Oct. and brings London papers to the 17th, and Lloyd's List of the 13th, a file of each of which is received at the office of the Mercantile advertiser. The Leopard brings also dispatches for the secretary of state.
Sir John Borlase Warren is appointed to supercede Admiral Berkeley on the American station. Whatever may be the opinion of ministers as to the recent conduct of their officer, or however hostile or conciliating their sentiments towards America, we must regard the measure of removing Admiral Berkeley as not only prudent but necessary.
Master Rose likewise proceeds on a special mission to the United States. We have no doubt that he is a bad of much promise from the importance of the mission assigned to him. Some, however, are inclined to think that he springs from too bad a root ever to expand into a flower of real merit.
COWES, Oct. 16.—Mr. Muros, surgeon of the Chesapeake, arrived here yesterday morning express from London, and immediately proceeded on board the Revenge, an American schooner, Capt. Reeves, which vessel has been lying here some time, waiting his return. The Revenge sailed this morning on her return to America.
New-York, December 4.—By the ship Calypso, Capt. Burke, who arrived at this port last night from Bordeaux, we have been favored with Paris papers to the 10th Oct. but do not find that they contain any interesting intelligence.
Capt. B. informs, that on the 22d Oct. in lat. 46, long. 7, he was boarded by the British frigate La Revolutionnaire, then in company with the Pomonah frigate, who having hoisted several signals; the officer of the La Revolutionnaire, informed Capt. B. that the telegraphs of the frigate, intimated the capture of 10 sail of the line of the Russian fleet, off the Dardanelles.
PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 4.
IMPORTANT.
In addition to the information, in the London papers, received by the Leopard, arrived at New-York, and published in this day's REGISTER, we have the pleasure to assure our readers that we have perused private letters, of as late date as the 17th of October, from respectable houses in London to their correspondents in this city, which state that there were the strongest reasons for believing in an amicable adjustment of our differences with Great Britain—that the mission of Mr. Rose, as envoy extraordinary of the United States, was expressly made to effect this desirable purpose—that the appointment of Sir John Borlase Warren, who is considered as one of their best admirals, and an accomplished gentleman, to succeed Admiral Berkeley, on the American station, is made from the same conciliatory motives—and that it was understood the blockade of their enemies' ports, would not (as had been sometime ago supposed) be rigorously enforced—and, under this impression, these letters advise a continuance of shipment—On the 17th of Oct. advice had reached London, that a treaty offensive and defensive had been con-

cluded between France and Denmark—and all hopes of a reconciliation with the latter power were at an end.
Combining these advices with opinions recently expressed from the highest authority at Washington, we are led to the pleasing conclusion that the governments of the United States and Great Britain will prefer the peace and prosperity of their respective countries to war and desolation—the statement of the rumored report of Mr. Canning's note, as given in the National Intelligencer , and published in this day's REGISTER , to the contrary notwithstanding.— Jackson's Register.
December 5.
The British government have appointed George Rose, formerly private secretary to Pitt, envoy extraordinary to the U. States; than whom, (excepting Lord Shelburne or Lord Melville) perhaps there could not be found, in England, a man more hostile to America, nor more accomplished in all the ways and means of corruption. The two Rose , father and son, from very humble stations (the elder was a paver on board a man of war) have, by the flexibility of their ethics, and their accommodating temper to the court and courtiers, become among the most wealthy men in England; a considerable portion of their wealth has been acquired by stock-jobbing , for which their official stations, for a long course of years, furnished them with favorable opportunities. From the selection of such a character, instead of a spirit of amity or justice, we augur such an intention as was manifested by the mission of Gordon to Copenhagen; most probably, furnished with pleni-potentiary powers, knowing the area of the policy of the British cabinet, he will come here to play as corrupt a part as Hammond , as insolent as Tron , and as English as Liston . The presses in British pay will hail his approach, as the husbandman hails the approaching shower that pours fertility over his fields; and as the sun-beam that gilds the way  harvest —and the Rose will be celebrated in greater variety of strains than was ever conceived by the prolific imagination of the Persian poet—and, we have not the least doubt, will obtain as much homage and celebrity as the Force of Sharon , whose perfume, more potent than the waters of Lethes , instead of creating an oblivion, captivated and enthralled the senses.— Aurora.
Had there been a sincere disposition to amity in the British government, a gentleman like Mr. Ersine , whose attachment to his own country cannot be doubted, and whose good will to this, may be fairly presumed, would have been retained in the station he holds. But it is not a knowledge of the character of this country, and government, that was required as a qualification—it was not a liberality in political affairs—it was a disposition to render justice, where wrong was done, that if the British government wanted—they must have a man capable of descending to the vilest tricks of diplomacy, or the most audacious species of menace—let the people of America bear it in mind, that the selection of George Rose , as an unfavorable omen for peace or justice, as the evil genius of Britain would have selected. He is a dry, plodding, insidious, supple, insinuating, cold, deliberate, ... disciple of Pitt —and beyond that point, no man need examine farther.— Id.
BALTIMORE, Nov. 30.
The visit of General Morau to the westward, and the expedition of his travelling, has excited a variety of conjectures in the political world. A friend of the general has handed us the following account of the motives of his journey, which will fully satisfy the curiosity and allay the suspicions of those who are always watching the movements of great characters.
"The General had, some time ago, the misfortune of losing his only son—his lady has also been under the necessity of returning to France, in order finally to settle some family concerns. Such painful separation, added to the dreadful loss which he had just experienced, had rendered his house so totally disagreeable to him, that in order to divert his grief, he has determined to undertake this excursion, and visit the Ohio and Mississippi, as far down as New-Orleans. His intention is to remain only a few days at the latter place, as he wishes to be in Charleston next February, and in N. York the following month. "The season being so far advanced, made it necessary for him to travel with some rapidity, and it was only a few days before he left N. York , that he was informed a passage could be procured."
CHARLESTON, Nov. 30.
The United States' Brig Hornet , Dent , Esq. commander, anchored in this harbor yesterday, in 42 days from Malabar —she fired a salute on passing Fort Johnson .
We learn by this arrival, that neutral vessels of all descriptions, are captured by the belligerent powers in the Mediterranean . All communication with Gibraltar had been interdicted on pain of death. It was reported that the French were about to embark forty thousand troops, in Russian bottoms , for the invasion of Sicily , but their success would be doubtful, as the British were erecting fortifications, and using every means in their power to oppose them. The Portuguese were in daily expectation of the arrival of the French, and the Royal Family were making preparations to go to Brazil . When the French troops took possession of Lisbon , in August last, they seized all British and American property, and lodged it in the public magazines, until the claimants can prove it not to be of the manufacture of England. The Ex-Bashaw of Tripoli remained at Syracuse in good health.
The Hornet , in a gale of wind on the coast, sprang her main-mast, carried away several main shrouds, and received serious injury in her sails and other rigging.
NORFOLK, Dec. 4.
AN OCCURRENCE of yesterday has excited some interest, arising from the recollection of a recent circumstance; we shall state to our readers the particulars of the occurrence of yesterday, as they have been related to us, and as we believe to be correct.
A French seaman, belonging to the French ship L'Imperatrice , the ship that was destroyed by the British on this coast, had some time since entered at Baltimore , on board one of the gun-boats in the service of the United States. Yesterday he deserted and got on board the tender of the French ship L'Patricie , declaring his wish
to return into the service of his country. The officer commanding the gun-boat discovered, and demanded the seaman, who the French officer refused to deliver him. Some discussion was had, when the American officer departed, under an expectation, or a promise that the man should not be removed until the affair could be represented to commodore Decatur . While the officer was on board the Chesapeake waiting the orders of commodore Decatur , and for a letter which he was then writing to the French commander, the Patriot's boat passed with the seaman in question on board, upon which orders were issued by the commodore , to man one of the Chesapeake's boats, and pursue the French boat, with orders to his officer to endeavor to prevail on the French officer to return and come alongside the Chesapeake , but to bring the deserter back at all events. Upon the boat's getting alongside some altercation ensued, partly, we understand, by accident, and without design to injure or offend.
The French officer, we understand, agreed to return to the Chesapeake . Afterwards some correspondence took place between commodore Decatur , and the commander of the Patriot , the contents of which we are not informed of. We understand that both officers adhered, the one in refusing, and the other insisting—the result, however, is, that the man was taken and carried on board the Chesapeake , where he now remains until the pleasure of government shall be known.
Such is a concise state of the facts, as relate to this unpleasant business, upon which we mean to offer no remarks, except to repeat what we have done upon another occasion, that the employment of foreign seamen, particularly deserters, will generally be productive of mischief; and it is to be lamented that the officers commanding, are not invested by government with power to set according to the justice of the case, when they are satisfied.
Accounts of this affair, went off by the mail to the navy department, and the French minister.— Ledger.
LYNCHBURG, Dec. 3.
Extract of a letter lately received from William L. Lewis, Esq. of Mount Athos . This gentleman, about 18 months ago, analysed and extracted gold from a lump of ore found on the lands of Mr. Terry , in Duckingham county, (Va.) and of which notice was then taken in this paper.
"I had lately put into my hands another lump of ore, found at Terry's Gold Mine in Duckingham —It weighs more than 3 pounds av'd. and is rich in gold—In some parts of the stone it appears in veins, in large lumps in others, but most generally like small pieces of sand. This stone, however, is not so rich in precious metal as the first found by Terry himself: that weighed, in its natural state, seven ounces six penny weight, and produced nearly six ounces of pure gold. I have been lately to see this uncommon spot, and have by me several stones of the silicious kind, which I picked off the surface of the ground, and almost all of them contain gold, some more, some less. Terry's children have found a great many pieces of different sizes, washed down by rains. There has been no search yet made by digging, but from the quantity found so lately after the first discovery, both pure and mixed, it is highly probable this will be one of the richest gold mines in the world."— Star.
Land, Negroes, &c. FOR SALE.
On Saturday the 9th day of January next, at the late residence of Obadiah Kent , dec'd. in the county of Halifax , a few miles from the courthouse, will be Sold, to the highest bidder, the whole of the Estate of the said decedent, consisting of a valuable tract of Land of about 47 acres, on which there is a dwelling house almost new, with two rooms on the lower floor, in each of which there is a fire place, in good stone chimneys annexed; there are also good barns, stables and other out-houses suitable for the accommodation of a family, a good orchard of Fruit trees, and land cleared and well enclosed sufficient to work five or six hands to advantage. This land is well adapted to the raising tobacco and all kinds of grain, and will be sold upon long credit, the payments to be equally and annually apportioned, as may be agreed on, and made known on the day of sale, and bonds with good security and a deed of trust upon the premises to be given by the purchaser to secure such payments. Also, six likely Negroes of different sizes and ages, mostly young, and valuable; a quantity of stock, consisting of Horses, Cattle, Sheep, & a crop of Corn, Wheat, Rye, Oats & Fodder; with a variety of Household and Kitchen furniture of a good quality, and plantation Tools and Utensils. The negroes and stock will be sold for cash, or on a credit until the 1st day of January 1809 will be given. In all cases bonds with approved security, to carry interest from their dates if not punctually paid, will be required, and the title of all property will remain in the executors until such bonds are executed.
BERRIMAN GREEN, Adm'r. of Obadiah Kent, dec'd. Halifax county, Dec. 1, 1807.
Notice.
THE concern of LESURUE & SAUNDERS , which has hitherto been conducted by them jointly, will in future be managed alone by CHANCELLOR H. SAUNDERS who is fully authorized for that purpose. He is alone authorized to receive and grant discharges for debts due them; the ill state of health of John L. Lesueur , the other partner, being such as to require him to retire to the country for some time, in the hope of its restoration.
John L. Lesueur, Chanc. H. Saunders. Richmond, 24 Dec. 1807. John Henderson.
Notice.
All persons having claims against the estate of Brigget Brasey , dec'd. in Buckingham county , are desired to make them known, that provision may be made, those indebted to the estate are requested to make payment, as I wish to close my administration.
JOHN JOHNS, Adm'r. Dec. 6th. 1807. JUST RECEIVED, A FRESH SUPPLY OF CHURCHES' PATENT MEDICINES; including Cough Drops, Essence of Mustard Scotch Ointment, &c. &c.
Virginia Argus.
RICHMOND:
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 1807.
Virginia Legislature.
TUESDAY, December 8.
The following committees were appointed, viz:
A committee for Courts of Justice, of Propositions & Grievances, of Privileges and Elections, of Finance, to examine the Clerk's Office, to examine the Executive expenditure for the last year.
The Speaker laid before the house a letter from the Governor, accompanied by sundry documents for the consideration of the General Assembly; which letter and documents were read and ordered to be printed.
A memorial was presented and read from the Judges of the Court of Appeals, stating certain inconveniences resulting from the law relating to that Court, and praying certain alterations thereof by the Legislature; which was referred to the committee for Courts of Justice.
A petition was presented and read from Jerman Baker , of Cumberland county , complaining of the undue election and return of Blake B. Woodson , one of the Delegates returned to serve in this present General Assembly for the said county; and praying that the said Woodson's seat may be vacated, and the petitioner allowed to take his place. Referred to the committee of Privileges and Elections.
The house proceeded by joint ballot with the Senate to the election of a Governor or Chief Magistrate for this Commonwealth for one year; when William H. Cabell , Esq. was re-elected.
Samuel Pleasants, jr. was re-appointed Printer to the Commonwealth for one year.
In consequence of the great press of business we are compelled to postpone, the publication of the Governor's letter till Tuesday.
COMMUNICATION.
THE reception that the little Emperor met with in Washington , contrasted with the immense and great attention paid him in Richmond , must cause a suffusion in the cheek of some gentlemen.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman, dated, Washington City, Nov. 6, 1807.
"Mr. Burr has passed thro' this place. He did not experience either sympathy or attention here. He stopt in Alexandria , sent a servant to Mr. Myers here, who keeps a Tavern, to send his Hack for him and prepare rooms. Myers refused to receive him, and he passed through Washington without stopping. I do not believe, that any man of character here, either federal, republican, or tory, would have condescended either to speak to, or visit Aaron Burr . In Baltimore , the Effigies of Burr , Marshall and Blennerhassett , were burnt amidst the acclamations of the people."
FROM THE AURORA.
The Gazette of BRONSON , that gazette which was said by the British ambassador Hammond to be " THE BRITISH GAZETTE ," that is, the gazette of the British government—this gazette is laboring hard to sustain the memorial set on foot by British agency for the purpose of being sent to England, and to impress that government with the same ideas that the Tories endeavored to inculcate during the revolution—The Gazette says that their memorial was not listened to—but it says nothing about the complaints of our government not being listened to at St. James's ; it says nothing about the murders and outrages, committed and refused to be redressed.
The Gazette of Bronson endeavors to make the views of the instigators of that shameless diplomatic trick common to the whole American mercantile interest, to the whole interest of the American people; but it is not as 100 to 100,000 of this city.
We shall be compelled to go into an examination by name of the signers of that memorial , if there is much more imposition attempted on this subject, and if we do, we shall exhibit such a picture as the public will be astonished at.
It is indeed a truly astonishing circumstance, such as could not exist, and would not be endured in any other country under Heaven, that a comparatively insignificant few, out of that very class of society, whose abuses of the American flag afford the only solid causes of complaint against the U. States; that men whose daily language and conduct is hostile to the government, and to those institutions which tolerate their audacity; that these few, set on by the agent of a foreign government, should in a moment when we are on the eve of a war; first project a measure to produce an appearance of discord among the people of America, and because congress refused to sanction the imposture, that they should then insolently clamor and abuse the government for not being their dupes.
Had England given even a shadow of hope, that she would be either candid, liberal, just, or honest, the agents of Britain might have had some colour for a memorial.
Had our citizens been released as an evidence of such a disposition, there might have been some pretext for a memorial. Had they not hanged an American of the name of Wilson , under the pretence that he was an Englishman, of the name of Radford , which Radford is living in Pennsylvania at this moment—they might have had some pretext for a memorial.
Had they ceased from seizing our ships, impressing our seamen, or promised to do it—there might have been some shadow of pretext for a memorial.
Had the conduct of England at Copenhagen , indicated any thing favorable to neutral rights, or to the sovereignty of an independent nation, there might have been a memorial.
Had the adherents of England in our seaports at any time, or even at the present
time, shown any thing but a rooted hatred, an incurable enmity to our peace, our government, and the American character—then they might have had some appearance of decency, in framing even a decent memorial.
But what have been the circumstances under which it was formed and sent? The greatest outrages had been committed—and remain unredressed.
There was not even a shadow of information—that redress was probable.
At the same instant warlike preparations—in Canada and Nova Scotia —the setting on of the Indians on the Canada frontier , and the vulgar insolence of forbidding in the pay of England at Boston , New-York , Philadelphia , Baltimore , Norfolk and Charleston , prove the rooted and relentless enmity of the British government.
And yet without a single circumstance, to alter the aspect of affairs between this day and the date of the murder on the Chesapeake , a miserable caucus of British factors, who impose upon a few worthy men to make masks of them, undertake to dictate to congress, before there is a little of information to act upon in a case that assuredly required a knowledge of the disposition of the British government before a step could be taken.
WASHINGTON CITY, Dec. 7.
Dispatches have, we understand, been received from Mr. Monroe , dated October 10th.
FROM THE PORT FOLIO.
Mr. Oldschool .—The Executors of the last will of General Hamilton have deposited in the Public Library of New-York a copy of " The Federalist ," which belonged to the General in his lifetime, in which he has designated in his own hand writing, the parts of that celebrated work written by himself, as well as those contributed by Mr. Jay and Mr. Madison . As it may not be uninteresting to many of your readers, I shall subjoin a copy of the General's memorandum for publication in " The Port Folio ."
Nos. 2, 3, 4, 5, 54, Mr. Jay. Nos. 10, 14, 37, to 48, inclusive, Mr. Madison. Nos. 18, 19, 20, Mr. Hamilton, and Mr. Madison jointly—all the rest by Mr. Hamilton.
From an English Magazine.
Table with 2 columns: Description, Count. Rows include: State of Matrimony in South-Britain, in the year 1795; Wives eloped from their husbands (1362); Husbands run away from their wives (2361); Married pairs living in a state of war under the same roof (191,023); Married pairs living in a state of inward hatred for each other, tho' concealed from the world (162,320); Married pairs living in a state of coldness & indifference for each other (500,132); Reputed happy in the esteem of the world (1,102); Comparatively happy (135); Absolutely and entirely happy (9); Total (862,554).
COMMUNICATION.
Departed this life, on the 24th of Nov. Doctor WILSON PRICE , of New-Canton , who was in the 31st year of his age, after a long and lingering indisposition, leaving behind to lament his loss, his Consort and a small Infant—The loss of such an amiable character, may be truly and sensibly felt by all those with whom he was acquainted—A kind and affectionate husband, a fond parent and indulgent master—as a physician, attentive and skillful.
DIED—At Windsor, Connecticut, on the 26th ult. the Hon. OLIVER ELLSWORTH .
Sales at Auction.
THE subscribers have lately received, and will proceed to sell, at their Vendue Office, on Thursday the 17th instant, the following valuable
Assortment of Goods,
viz.—4 Bales Kendall Cotton—3 do Forest Cloths—12 do Plain —2 do Flannels assorted colors, white, red, blue, green and yellow—2 ditto Blue Kersey —1 ditto superfine Cloths —1 ditto Fine Cloths —1 ditto Casimeres . ALSO—Half bicks, white plains, blankets President's cord, velvets, thicksets, Constitution cord, German sheeting, German ozanburgs and rolls, Chambray muslins 7 4 and 4 4 cotton Cambrick calicoes, dimities, Marseilles, India cottons, Irish linens, cotton hose, cotton shirtings, gingham, plush and jappet shawls, elegant japan'd muslins, do. brocade do. Ditto plain jacomet ditto, figured cambricks, vine'd ditto, Queens' fancy ditto, gauze ditto, cut spot ditto, Turkey gauze cord, mull mull Muslins, book muslin Handkerchiefs, women's and children's Caps, Leno Tucker and Habet, shirrs, colored thread, rapped snuff in kegs, checks and stripes, segars, powder and shot, raisins in boxes, with a variety of other articles too tedious to enumerate.
Terms of sale, 6 months credit for all sums over 50 dollars, under 50 dollars cash; for credit purchasers approved endorsed negotiable notes at the Bank of Virginia will be required. The sale will commence at 10 o'clock, A. M. and continue until 9 P. M. if not sooner closed.
Also, will be sold, without reserve, on a credit of 60 days, for approved endorsed negotiable notes.—2 pair HORSES, 12 valuable MULS, 2 WAGGONS and GEAR, and 8 CARTS and GEAR.
Prosser & Moncure, Auc'rs.
We have on hand for Private Sale—100 sacks Salt, 4 bushel twilled sacks; 10,000 lbs. Loaf Sugar; 10 Hhds. Antigua Rum; 10 do. Wind. Island ditto; 20 quarter casks Sherry Wine; 10 Hhds. Brown Sugar, 40 barrels do. 20 chests Imperial Tea, 10 ch. ts Young Hyson ditto, 15 pipes choice old 4th proof Cogniac Brandy, 20 crates Ware well assorted at 100 advance on 6 months, 5 pipes Gin; also, Whiskey in Hhds, N. E. Rum in Hhds and barrels, a few half pipes Madeira Wine, and a few pipes old Lisbon ditto; with a very general assortment of DRY GOODS; all of which will be sold low for cash, or approved notes in town. Wanted immediately, 40 VIRGINIA BANK SEASONS, for which cash will be given.
Dec. 9. (2) P. & M. BLANK BONDS For Sale at this Office.
WE the subscribers, Judges of the General Court, have pursuant to law appointed the Judges of the respective District Courts as follows: Francis T. Brooke and Hugh Holmes, Esqrs. to the District of Winchester, Hardy and Shenandoah counties; John Tyler and Paul Carrington, jr. Esqrs. to the Districts of Richmond, Petersburg, Brunswick, Southampton and Suffolk; Edmund Winston and William Nelson, jr. Esqrs. to the Districts of Prince Edward, Franklin, Washington, Augusta, and the Sweet Springs in Botetourt county; Joseph Prentis and Richard Parker, Esqrs. to the Districts of Northumberland, King and Queen, Williamsburg and Accomack counties;—And Robert White and Archibald Stuart, Esqrs. to Staunton, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg and Haymarket Districts at the next succeeding terms thereof.
Witness our hand and seal, this 12th day of November, one thousand eight hundred and seven.
John Tyler, (Seal.) William Nelson, (Seal.) Robert White, jr. (Seal.) Paul Carrington, jr. (Seal.) Archibald Stuart, (Seal.) Hugh Holmes, (Seal.) Francis T. Brooke, (Seal.)
Published by order of the Judges, Wm Wilson Allen, C. G. C.
Thomas Courtney,
TAILOR.
Returns his grateful acknowledgments to his friends and the public for the encouragement he has received this winter, and hopes to merit a continuance of their patronage. P. S. Wanted immediately, three Journeyman Tailors, who are men of sobriety and industry; to such will be given the best wages that is given in Richmond, by me. Wm T. C.
Just Published,
AND for Sale, by William Lowrie, A. Fcs. and Enoch Sullivan, a General Selection of the Newest and most Admired
Hymns & Spiritual Songs,
Now in use—By SMITH MEAD , Preacher of the Gospel, M. E. C.
Let the inhabitants of the rock sing; let them shout from the top of the mountains—ISA. 42, 11.
Let the word of CHRIST dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms and Hymns, and Spiritual Songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the LORD—EPHES. 5, 19.
Note—The profits of this Edition, to be applied in diminishing the debt on the Lynchburg Meeting House. Richmond, Dec. 7. 1807.
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 Reuben George , dec'd. in Henrico county , about seven miles below Richmond , on the single road leading to Williamsburg , to the highest bidder, on nine months credit, for all sums above five dollars, upon the purchase a giving bond and approved security to carry interest from the date if not punctually paid—for all sums under, cash will be required, the HOUSEHOLD & KITCHEN FURNITURE, Crop of Corn, Fodder and Stalks, Stock of every kind, Plantation Utensils, a valuable parcel of Lumber, such as Plank & Scantling, at the same time and place, will be hired, for the ensuing year, from twenty to twenty five NEGROES—the Land also will be rented and possession given immediately by the
Executor.
Henrico county , Dec. 4, 1807. N. B. All those having claims against the above mentioned estate, are requested to bring them forward properly authenticated, and those indebted, to make immediate payment, as no indulgence can be given. Ex'r.
For Sale,
At the Bel Tavern , in the city of Richmond , the 1st day of January next, several NEGROES, the property of James Shields , dec'd. at six months credit—I again request and desire all those who have claims against the above estate, to bring them forward before the day of sale, or this notice will be pled in bar hereafter. I also think it advisable for the creditors to attend the sale, as I have my doubts whether there will be estate sufficient to discharge the debts, and all those indebted to the above estate, must without delay, come forward and discharge their accounts, or suits will be assuredly brought. John P. Shields, Adm'r. Of James Shields, dec. Dec. 4th. 1807.
BY virtue of a deed of trust executed by Essex Brown of Charles City county , bearing date the 19th of September, 1804, and recorded in said county, to secure the payment of fifty seven pounds and three farthings, to John Cray , jr. will be SOLD, for ready money, at the dwelling house of said Essex Brown , the 10th day of next month, if fair, if not, the next fair day, two HORSES, four COWS, three FEATHER BEDS and FURNITURE, one yoke STEERS, two YEARLINGS and seventeen head of SHEEP, or so much thereof as may be sufficient to satisfy the said claim and cost. Joshua Crew, Trustee. 11th month 20th. 1807.
N. B. The sale of the above Property is POSTPONED, until the EIGHTEENTH of this Month, when it will certainly take place. Joshua Crew, Trustee. 12th Month, 8th. 1807.
By virtue of a deed of trust, executed to the Subscriber, by William Davidson , on the 14th day of February last, for certain purposes therein mentioned, I shall proceed to sell at public auction, on the premises, for Cash, on Friday, the first day of January 1808 at 11 o'clock, a certain LOT OF GROUND. With the improvements thereon, lying and being in the city of Richmond , containing 24 feet on the Main Street, to the line of Water Shelton's Lot, thence back with the line of said Shelton's Lot 50 feet, thence 24 feet to the cross street leading by Todd's Lot, thence 50 feet to the said Main Street, it being a part of the Lot No. 20, lately occupied by Cunningham Burton, dec. and now in the occupancy of Wm. Davidson .
Frederick Pleasants, Trustee. Richmond, Dec. 5. 1807.
THE Stockholders in the BANK OF VIRGINIA are hereby notified, that the General Meeting, for the purpose of electing Directors of the Bank and the several departments for the ensuing year, will be held on Monday the 4th day of January next.
John Brockenbrough. December 1

NEW STORE.
The subscriber having purchased out the entire stock in trade of Messrs. Charles I. Price & Co. purposes to carry on the dry good business, in the store lately occupied by them, next door to Messrs. Robert Neilson & Co. and begs leave to inform the public that in addition to said stock he has just received a very extensive
Assortment of Goods,
By the latest arrivals from New York and Philadelphia—Amongst which are— Lady's elegant embroidered dresses of the latest French fashion, superfine and coarse cloths, casimeres, assorted, blankets, flannels, coatings and bucking baizes, plains assorted, an elegant assortment of fancy vesting, consisting of toilets, nets, woolen moleskins, Bennet's patent cord, printed and striped velvets, printed cords, swans-downs, turkey down, white and colored mar- seilles and printed jeans, silver or president's cord for pantaloons, olive and black twill velvets, Bennet's patent mist woolen cord, brown holland, 7-8 and 4-4 Irish linens, fine shirting cambricks, elegant assortment of chinzees and calicoes, colored and black cambrick muslins, cotton and silk chambrays, plain and figured muslins and lace cambricks, book and mull muslins, 7-8, 9-8 and 4-4 white cambrick muslins, plain and figured plaid and white mantuas or Italian silks, dimities, men and women's silk, cotton, worsted and yarn hose, beaver, silk and York tan gloves, sewing silks and threads assorted, India muslins, shawls and hdkfs of every description, cotton and linen checks, long lawn and linen cambricks, handkerchiefs and other silk hdkfs assorted, Persians, pealings, mousel, gauzes, laces, ribbons, combs, &c. bed ticking, linstock, florentine, lustings and fancy silks, cotton and silk umbrellas, cotton and silk suspender, ladies' shoes and slippers, vest and coat buttons, &c besides a variety of other articles—all of which will be disposed of on very low terms for cash, or bills of a short date. Hugh Chambers. November 26, 1807. 6t
Dissolution.
The copartnership of CHARLES I. PRICE & Co. of the city of Richmond, was dissolved on the 21st inst. by mutual consent. All persons indebted to the late firm, are desired to make immediate payment to PRICE & MCCUTCHEM, of the city of Philadelphia, or to their lawful attorney only; and those having claims against said concern, are desired to send in their accounts legally attested. CHARLES I. PRICE. ENOCH PRICE. WM. H. MCCUTCHEM. 25th, Nov. 1807. 8t
Notice.
The subscribers having appointed Mr. HUGH CHAMBERS, of the city of Richmond, their lawful attorney, to receive all debts due the late copartnership of CHARLES I. PRICE & Co. All persons indebted to said concern, are requested to make payment to him only. Payments made contrary to this will be void, as no acquittals can be given but from under his hands; and all persons having claims against said concern, are requested to send in their accounts to him legally authenticated for adjustment. ENOCH PRICE. WM. H. MCCUTCHEM. 25th Nov. 1807. 8t
Advertisement.
TO BE SOLD, at New-Market, in Amherst County, on Thursday, the last day of Dec. next, to the highest bidder, SUNDRY PROPERTY , belonging to the Estate of Hector Cabell, dec. viz: about 40 Negroes, several valuable work Horses, about 500 barrels of Corn, 4 or 500 bushels of Oats, a large quantity of Fodder, and Sundry other Articles too tedious to mention—The sale will continue from day to day until the whole is sold. The Negroes consist 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 property, 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 security to carry interest from the date if not punctually paid, will be required. Robert Rives, Adm'r Of the estate of Hector Cabell. Nov. 15th, 1807. 6w
N. B. At the same time and place, the Subscriber expects to sell 20 or 30 Negroes more—the terms of which will be made known on the day. Robert Rives.
Notice.
In Pursuance of a decree of the Superior Court of Chancery, held at the Capitol in the city of Richmond, on the 5th day of last May. We shall, on the premises, on Saturday the 26th day of December next, proceed to sell to the highest bidder, for ready money, the
Tract of Land,
Lying in Chesterfield county, whereon John Perry now resides, containing 68 acres (be the same more or less,) or so much thereof as will raise the sum specified in said decree, and defray the expenses attending the sale, &c. W. La-Prade, } Comm're. A. Whitworth, } Nov. 20, 1807. 3w
LOST,
ON the 24th ult a BOND, executed by Martin of the county of Buckingham, and payable to Silas Flournoy this day, by whom it was assigned to me; the sum is sixty odd dollars I forewarn all persons from trading for the same. T. I. Clarke, Jr. Cumberland, Nov. 14, 1807. 3w
FOR SALE,
And may be seen at the Bell Tavern, one of the most elegant pair of
Full bred Bay Horses,
that has ever been exhibited in the city of Richmond—one of them 5 and the other 6 years old. Nov. 12. 1w
A CARD.
VIRGINIA RAYCLIFF, having removed to a tenement of Mr. Robert McKim's on the Main-street, and almost immediately back of the Bank—offers her services to the Ladies of Richmond, Manchester, and their Vicinities in the MANUFACTURING LINE. Nov. 27. 1f
EXHIBITION.
THE FAMOUS AFRICAN HORSE, SPOTTEE, Has just arrived in Richmond. Who, from the great progress he has made in arithmetic and the art of boxing, may justly be entitled the HORSE OF KNOWLEDGE.
He will be exhibited every day from 8 o'clock in the morning till 6 in the evening at the Washington Tavern.
This beautiful animal was caught on the coast of Africa; and, from the beauty and peculiarity of his colors and shape, was imported to this country, and exhibited as a natural curiosity. He is variegated with four very rich and distinct colors, which are formed into circular spots, similar to those of the Leopard, and his tail resembles that of the Elephant. Exclusive of these peculiarities he will add, subtract, multiply and divide; tell the hour of the day by a watch; the number of buttons on a gentleman's coat, and the number of persons present; with many other pleasing manœuvres and marks of sagacity, which excite great admiration. No danger need be apprehended during the performance, as the apartment is rendered very convenient. Price of admittance 50 cents—children half price
Sale of Negroes.
In pursuance of a deed of trust executed to me by Thomas Pollard of Amelia county, to secure the payment of a debt therein mentioned, due to Mackenness Goode, I shall on the 12th day of December next, proceed to sell at Painville, in Amelia county, to the highest bidder, the following SLAVES , to wit; Patrick and John, to answer the purpose of said debt. Wm. Powell, Trustee. November 20th, 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. all of which he will sell on the most reasonable terms, for cash or country produce. Richmond, Nov. 26, 1807. 2m
RUN AWAY from the Subscriber, living in the lower end of Buckingham county, a NEGRO WOMAN, named NELLY ; she went off sometime in February last, and has been heard of about Cumberland courthouse soon after her departure. I am lately informed, that she is lurking about the Coal Pits, on Falling Creek, about twelve miles above Richmond; she is a remarkable large Woman, about 23 years old. Any person, that will secure her so that I get her, shall receive Ten Dollars, or if brought home, what the law allows besides. R. Anderson. Nov. 19th, 1807. 3t
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 excellent quality, as the subscriber has understood from most respectable information. It lies on Deer creek, a branch of the Sciota, about 15 miles from Chillicothe, 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 notes negotiable at the Bank of Virginia; or will exchange it for property in the city of Richmond. An unquestionable title, with general warranty, will be made to the purchaser. WM. MUNFORD. Richmond, Sept. 24, 1807. 1f
Will be Sold,
To the highest bidder, on Wednesday the 16th of December next, (if fair, if not, the next fair day), all the
Household & Kitchen Furniture.
STOCK of all kinds, the Crop of CORN, FODDER, &c. belonging to the estate of Peter Baker, dec'd, among which are some very valuable high blooded Colts, an excellent large Horse Clock, and a Ten Plate Stove. The sale will take place at Dover, (the late residence of the deceased)—Terms of sale will be, nine months credit on all sums above ten dollars, the purchaser to give bond and security, to carry interest from the date if not punctually paid—for all sums under ten dollars cash will be required. CHRISTENIA BAKER, Ex'x. Dover, Goochland, Nov. 10, 1807. 1d
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 Lockette and Harris' creek, in the county of Prince Edward, and supposed to contain between 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 snug plantations in this part of the country, but better fenced than usual. CHARLES WOODSON, } Trustees. JAMES MADISON, } Prince Edward, 16th Oct. 1807. 10w
Wm. W. Dickenson,
OFFERS FOR SALE ON LOW TERMS, 12 Tons James River Hemp, 16 Tons Country Bar-Iron, and 80 Tierces Whiskey. Richmond, Nov. 16, 1807. 1m
By virtue of a deed of trust executed to me by Ambrose Dudley of King William county, to secure a debt due by the said Ambrose Dudley to Benjamin Mosby, assignee of William Dandridge—We shall proceed to sell, for ready cash, for the best price that can be obtained, on the premises, on the 26th day of January next, A certain Tract or Parcel of Land, Lying and being in the county of King William, being the same on which the said Dudley now resides, & the same which the said Dudley purchased of William Dandridge, containing 602 acres, or so much thereof as will be sufficient to pay the sum of four hundred pounds, current money, with legal interest thereon from the 1st day of April, 1807, till payment, together with all expenses attending the execution thereof. BERN'D LIPSCOMB, NATH'L FOX. 1d
TO BE SOLD,
At Painville, in Amelia county, on Monday the 29th of December next, an Extraordinary valuable Black-smith Belonging to the estate of Richard Eggleston, dec. on a credit of six months. Bond with approved security will be required of the purchaser. October 11, 1807. 1d
By virtue of a deed of trust executed to me by Archibald Cary Randolph of Goochland county, to secure the payment of a debt due Samuel Harris of Powhatan county, amounting to one hundred and fifty three pounds eighteen shillings, with interest from the date of said instrument, will be sold, the following PROPERTY , viz: one Negro Woman, Nelly, and her son John, and a Mulatto Girl, Priscilla, the property of said Randolph, to the highest bidder, for cash, on Friday the fifteenth of January, 1808, at Jefferson, to satisfy the said debt, together with all costs and charges attending the execution of said trust. Alban Gilpin, trustee. Nov. 9th, 1807. 1d
FOR SALE,
ON VERY REASONABLE TERMS, Two Likely Negro Men.
If the above negroes are not disposed of at private sale before the first day of January next, they will on that day be offered at public auction, in the town of Jefferson, Powhatan county, for cash. James R. Stokes. Jefferson Nov. 21, 1807. 1d
The Grand Lodge of Virginia,
Will meet on Monday, December the 14th next. Wm. H. Fitzhugh, G. S. Richmond, Nov. 16, 1807. 1d
Hampden Sidney College.
THE Trustees wish to inform the public, that they have lately engaged the Rev. Mosses Hogg of Sheppards Town in this state, to remove to the College, and to take charge of it as President. They will also give notice, that the buildings are in a comfortable state of repair, and that boarding and tuition for students continue at the usual rates. Prince Edward, 12th Nov. 1807. 6w
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 commence 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 Charles Street, Baltimore.
The grandeur of the Scheme of the above Lottery, together with an assurance from the managers that it will positively commence drawing 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. G. & R. WAITE.
One of the above firm will personally attend the drawing daily, to take down the numbers correctly, as will also one of their clerks. The next New-York Lottery will not commence drawing till April next—Tickets of which Lottery may be had at Waite's Offices, 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 forwarded to any amount with the utmost punctuality, 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 inspection of adventurers. October 14th, 1807. 1f3m
ADVERTISEMENT.
Just Received, a General Assortment of Dutch Bolting Cloth, Of a superior quality. Oct. 22, 1807. 1f
J. Darmstadt.
For Sale,
MY Dwelling House, and Four Half-Acre Lots of Ground, in the Town of Manchester, as formerly advertised: On receiving a part in cash, I am disposed to give a considerable 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 Kentucky, 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. 1f
NOTICE is hereby given, that
a petition will be presented to the next Virginia Assembly, praying that the lands whereof John McMurry died seized, may be sold for the purpose of satisfying his just debts, he having no heir or legal representative to inherit the same. WM. OVERTON, Adm'r. de bonis non, of John McMurry. Prince Edward, Oct. 27, 1807. 2m
TO THE
Members of Assembly.
THE Subscriber, living eight miles from Richmond, will take Horses the ensuing Session of Assembly, to stall, curry and feed, with hemlock, oats, fodder or hay, and graze in extensive meadows, and send them to the city the last of every week if required, for half the price paid in Richmond at this time. GEO. MANN. Nov. 10th, 1807. 3t
N. B. I shall attend at the Capitol the preceding Saturday and the three first days of the session, to receive the horses, and ascertain the prices, and will board servants and feed beef cattle very low. G. M.
FOR SALE,
The well known Estate called ABINGDON , in the county of Gloucester, formerly the property of Addison Lewis, Esq. containing about 500 acres of valuable high and low land. Much may be said in favor of this estate as to neighborhood, prospect, health, buildings, enclosures, water, quality of soil, and its present state of cultivation. A considerable portion of the low land is finely seeded with barley. For terms and further information, apply to the Rev. John Ellis in Richmond, or to William P. Byrd Esq. on the premises. Dec. 4.
TO THE MEMBERS of the ASSEMBLY.
The subscriber having good stables and a plenty of provender, would take six or eight HORSES at three dollars per week. They can have the advantage of a very excellent meadow. Servants that may come with them can be boarded low,—I will not be liable for accidents or escapes. JOHN TURPIN. N. B. A line left at Mr. Pleasants' printing-office will be attended to. Dec. 4.
SALE OF PROPERTY.
ON the plantation in Powhatan county, late the property of William Ronald, deceased, will be sold, at public auction, on Thursday the 17th day of December next, all the Stock of Horses, Hogs, Cattle, &c among which are four Mules and three yoke of Oxen. Also, about 500 Bbls. of Corn, a quantity of excellent Fodder, Shucks and Straw, six or eight thousand weight of Shucave Oats, and about 2000 wt. of Fork. The pork, corn and other provender, will be sold on a credit of three months; all the other property will be sold on a credit of 12 months, for all sums above ten dollars, the purchasers giving bond and security, to carry interest from the date if not punctually paid. The sale will continue from day to day until the whole is sold. W. BENTLEY. The Negroes on the plantation, about 50 in number of every description, will be hired out at the same time for the ensuing year—Bonds as above will be required, by the
GUARDIANS,
Pewhaton, 25th Nov. 1807. 1d
20 Dollars Reward.
RUN AWAY from the 6th 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, resembling small pox pits, a waterman by trade, and left his bateau 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 Richmond 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 Henrico 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 so I get him, or delivered me in Bell Creek, Buckingham, Virginia. Samuel Horseley. November 20, 1807. 1f 1d
At a Court of Quarterly Session, held for
Cumberland County, the 27th day of October, 1807.
James Roper, plaintiff, } In
against, } Chan-
Benj. Sims & Wm. Sims, defts. } cery.
THE defendant William, not having entered his appearance and given security according to law, and the rules of this court, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that he is not an inhabitant of this state; on the motion of the complainant by his counsel, It is ordered , that the said William do appear here on the 4th Monday in February next to answer the complainants' bill, and that the defendant Benjamin do not pay, convey away, or secure any debt by him owing to, or effects of the said William in his hands until the further order or decree of this court; and that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in one of the Virginia Gazettes, for two months successively, and published at the front door of the courthouse in this county. A Copy—Teste, Miller Woodson, jr. d. c.
LEWIS M. RIVALAIN,
Acting as Principal Agent.
General Office of Assurance, Richmond, 15th November, 1807.
Form of the Credentials to be produced by the person voting at the annual meeting by proxy, to wit:
subscriber of member of the Mutual Assurance Society, do hereby constitute and appoint to attend the annual general meeting of the said society, to be held at Richmond, on the first Monday in January next, as proxy to vote and act on behalf, on any business which may come before the said meeting as fully as if personally present. In testimony whereof have hereunto set hand and seal the day of 1807. Teste, wtr
VIRGINIA:
At a Superior Court of Chancery held at the Capitol in Richmond, September 22d, 1807.
William Duguid and Lucy his wife, John M. Walker administrator with the will annexed of John Christian, deceased and Joyce Christian widow of the late John Christian, and James Patterson, plaintiffs.
Against Elizabeth Patterson executrix and George Christian executor of Peter Patterson, and Martha Patterson, Elizabeth M. Reynolds, Charles Patterson, Peggy Patterson, Polly Patterson, Peter Patterson, Jenny Patterson, Henry Patterson, Fanny Patterson and Patterson, and Charles Bacon, son and heir of Nancy Bacon 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 deceased, Charles Phillips and Molly his wife, Lewis Dawson and Lucy his wife, Samuel P. Christian and Nancy his wife, Samuel Patterson and John Patterson infants by the said Samuel P. Christian specially assigned their guardian, heirs of the said John Patterson deceased, defendants.
IN this cause on motion of the plaintiffs by 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 returned by him, in which he will reform the accounts as either party may require, or he may think proper, and also admit any other items of debt 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 hearing 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 appointed the eighteenth day of January next to carry into effect the foregoing decree of the court; on which day their attendance is required at my office in this city with their accounts and vouchers ready for examination and settlement, and with copies of the court papers. Samuel Greenhow, M. C.
In Chesterfield County Court, November the 9th 1807.
Robert Donald the elder, and Andrew Donald, surviving partners of James & Robert Donald & Co. Compts. } In
against, } Chan-
Arthur Aikin and Polly his wife, late Polly Lockett, Elam Lockett, Wm. Lockett, James Lockett, Robert Lockett, Green Lockett, King Lockett, Rhoda Lockett, Francis Lockett, Jun. Page Vaden and Caroline his wife, late Caroline Lockett, Zach. Lockett, James Lockett, Polly Lockett, Nancy Brasey, late Nancy Lockett, and Lawson Burfoot, Defts. } cery.
ON the motion of the complainants by their counsel, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that the defendant James Lockett, (therein 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 Richmond for two months successively and another copy posted at the front door of the courthouse of this county. A copy—Teste, Parke Poinexter, D. C.
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 Fussly's creek & middle State river, adjoining the lands of Charles Moxey, Conner and others; 500 on both sides of Little Buffalo creek, about 12 miles below the courthouse, adjoining 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 primo toloco 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 January 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. wt4j
To the Public.
THE Subscriber, residing in Lynchburg, has commenced the practice of LAW , in the Hastings Court of that Town, the County Courts of Campbell, Amherst and Bedford, and the District Court of Franklin. Those who may confide their business to his care may depend on his attention. WILLIAM RADFORD. Lynchburg, Nov. 20, 1807. wt4j
Sale of Negroes.
ON Thursday, the 7th January, 1808, WILL BE SOLD, at Wm. Lankford's Tavern, in Chesterfield county, EIGHTEEN NEGROES , consisting of Men, Women and Children, they being the same that the late James Branch died seized with. The terms will be