Norfolk gazette and publick ledger (Norfolk [Va.]), 1808-04-27 00:00:00

LETTER
From Mr. Monroe to the Secretary of State, dated RICHMOND, February 8, 1808. Accompanying the message of the president of the United States, to congress, on the 22d March.
[CONCLUDED.]
The remarks above made, refer more particularly to a trade between the United States and Europe in the produce of enemy colonies. They are however equally applicable to the other objection stated in your letter, of a trade between the United States and enemy colonies, in the produce or manufactures of Africa or Asia. None of the orders alluded to, inhibit that commerce, and it is most certain that the article alluded to, gives no sanction to such a pretension.
As to the conditions by which it is agreed to break the continuity of the voyage, I have to observe that they are as favourable as you had expected. We were authorised to stipulate, if better conditions could not be obtained, that the goods should be landed, the duties paid, and the ship changed. We stipulated only that the goods should be landed, and the duty paid, making the duty on European goods one per cent. and on colony productions two. By exempting the party from the necessity of changing the ship, an important advantage was certainly secured. By fixing the duty at one per cent. in the one instance, and at two in the other, it was not possible that the slightest embarrassment should be thrown in the way of the trade. The duty payable on manufactures consumed in the country, is about 15 per cent. and on West India productions 25. The trifling amount made payable to the country on the re-exportation of the articles, could not be felt by the merchant. It would fall on the European consumer. It could not be felt as a heavy imposition on the trade itself. Our only competitor in it would be Great Britain, whose merchants would labour under the disadvantages incident to war, in a thousand shapes, more especially as the ports of the whole continent would be shut on them in not being able to get their goods into those ports, otherwise than by smuggling them—a mode which could not fail to be onerous, if it succeeded, but which was likely to fail in most cases. It should be remembered also, that the increased duties which would accrue to the country, would tend, in the degree, to interest the whole community in support of a commerce, in which the commercial part was most materially interested. It is the policy of the European powers having colonies in the West Indies, to make the parent country the entrepot of the productions of its colonies. Is not that policy worthy the attention and imitation of the United States in respect to the trade of the colonies in question? The duty received would make some recompense to the nation for the expenses incurred and sums expended in supporting our right to that trade. Besides, by making the ports of the United States the "entrepots" for such productions, the country in general would derive some advantage from the measure. Every ship engaged in the commerce which entered an American port, would bring something to, and take something from it. The vast amount of Asiatic, European, and West India articles, brought to our markets, would cheapen the price of those articles at home, and each ship, while in port, and in the prosecution of her voyage, would require supplies in provision and other articles, which would raise the price of those articles, to the great advantage of the general interest of the country.
The limitation of the article to the term specified, was a condition which we presumed might prove advantageous to the United States, while it could not possibly injure them. It is expressly stipulated that the right of both parties shall receive at the expiration of the term. Those of the United States, therefore, would then be in force, and to the full extent of their pretensions, in the same manner as if the stipulation had not been entered into. In another war they might insist on conditions which this stipulation did not secure, and if Great Britain did not yield to their demand, they might resort to any expedient to compel her, which the wisdom of their councils might dictate. Any encroachment on the part of Great Britain on their rights, as heretofore contended for, might be considered by their government an act of hostility, and treated accordingly. The least favourable conditions that she could offer would be those already settled, which the United States might accept or reject, as they thought best. As a youthful, prosperous, and rising nation, it could not be doubted that in the next war their situation would be more imposing than in the present one. The presumption is, that they would be able then to obtain better conditions than before.
On the third article I have to observe, in addition to what is stated in our joint letter of January 3, 1807, that nothing would have been more easy than to have omitted any provision on the subject of it, and to have placed that trade on the footing of the most favoured nation. To obtain better terms by treaty was utterly impossible. We were much inclined to omit any provision on the subject, because we were aware that the arrangement made would fall short of the expectation of our government and country, and most probably subject us to censure. We acceded to that arrangement from a conviction that it secured us better terms than we should be likely to enjoy, if left to depend on the pleasure of the British government, stimulated as we knew that was to restrict us in it by the India company, and other interests of the country. It is impossible to conceive too high an idea of the jealousy which is entertained of the United States, in a commercial view, by that government, and of the danger with which it thinks Great Britain is menaced by their extraordinary prosperity and rapid growth. The boldness of the projects, and the activity and utility
with which they are prosecuted by our merchants and mariners, excite the admiration of Europe. Great Britain has seen, wherever our citizens gained a footing, they never lost it. Without distrusting her own means, or the hardness and activity of her people, she finds that our position remote from Europe, contiguous to the West Indies and the southern continent, and as near to India as herself, give us advantages, against which she cannot cope. The effort which we made and persevered in for several months to gain admission into British India, on more favourable terms, and the disposition which was shown by the British commissioners to yield, excited a sensation, or more properly speaking, an alarm in the board of India directors, and of the commercial people in general, even among those who had no particular interest in the question, which was extremely obvious. Had we made no provision in the treaty to secure our admittance into India, on certain conditions, we had much reason to believe that that commerce would have been fettered to an extreme degree, and in every form.
We were extremely anxious to provide that our citizens might make their shipments from Europe, to take specie from Spain and Portugal, goods from England, &c. and that they might touch at the Cape of Good Hope, and at the isle of Bourbon, at the Mauritius, &c. that they might carry on the coasting trade in India, and be permitted to pass from Calcutta to China. These advantages were insisted on, but the pressure which we made produced reports from the board of directors, at the instance of the government, and from political men conversant in these topics, which fixed the government in its decision not to grant them. I repeat, however, that it would have been easy to have omitted the regulation from the treaty, and placed the trade on the footing of the most favoured nation, as it would have been at any time afterwards, had the state of affairs in other respects permitted it.
By your instructions, a provision in favour of indemnity was not made an indispensable condition of a treaty. We were authorised to conclude one without it. We were, therefore, persuaded that the ground on which that interest was placed, could not fail to be approved. The arrangement which we made authorised a just claim to expect a dismissal of all the causes that were depending in the courts of admiralty, and even to an indemnity in the cases of condemnation. The documents which we forwarded to you in our joint letter of 3d. March, give a full view of this subject, and to them I beg to refer.
Your 5th objection applies to the 13th and 19th articles of the treaty, and in the first instance to the prohibition it contains, of extending the privileges which are made reciprocal between the parties, to other nations, which is supposed to be a breach of neutrality. Had I conceived that those articles were justly exposed to that imputation, I should certainly not have assented to them. But I saw no foundation for the imputation. With Spain and Holland we have treaties which secure them all the rights to which they are entitled. It is usual, and certainly proper, for a nation in estimating its claims on other powers, to examine its treaties with them, and not to think of setting up a pretension beyond the limit of such treaties. By treaty, neither of those powers have any right in the case in question, nor have we in the ports of either. By treaty, Great Britain has enjoyed those rights in the ports of the United States, as we had in her ports from the year 1794. Spain and Holland knew the conditions of that treaty, which was in force at the commencement of the present war, and some time afterwards, and would have been in force till late in the last year, had a special condition of the 12th article been carried into effect. To renew the treaty in the express terms of the former one, a treaty which deprived no one power of any existing conventional right; which subjected none to conditions to which they had not been always subjected; which allowed to Great Britain on principles of reciprocity, a privilege which there was no reason to presume that any other power, especially Spain, would consent to reciprocate with the United States, did not seem to be liable to the objection stated to it. The general principle which you advance, of extending those principles to a smaller number of powers as possible, had also some weight in inducing us to accede to the arrangement. France is admitted to an enjoyment of them, in the same extent with Great Britain. She, therefore, has no cause of complaint. I do not think that the stipulation forbids any arrangement of the government, relative to the number of ships of war that shall be admitted in the ports of the United States at one time, or any regulation relative to their conduct while within the ports of the United States, provided it be general and equally applicable to both powers. A stipulation that the ships of war of each nation shall be hospitably received into the ports of the other, does not necessarily imply that there is to be no rule as to the numbers to be admitted into the ports to which they shall be confined, or the order they shall observe while in port. All these topics have been at all times, as I have reason to believe, the object of regulation by Great Britain, and I have equal reason to believe that her government did not consider itself as having abandoned its right to regulate them by this article.
Your next objection applies to the last paragraph of the 19th, taken in connection with the 12th article. By your construction of those parts of the treaty, the United States would be bound to claim redress in favour of Great Britain of her enemies for any acts of hostility which they might commit on her ships of war or merchant vessels, within the additional limit, while she might commit, with impu-
nity like acts of hostility on the ships of war and merchant vessels of her enemies, in case they did not acknowledge it, and against their ships of war in case they did, although her own ships of war in both cases would be protected within it. I was decidedly of opinion, and still am, that while those articles secure to the United States an unconditional advantage, none whatever is stipulated by them in favor of Great Britain, which must not of necessity be common to her enemies; that her privilege, on the contrary, whatever it may be, must be founded on their consent, follow, and terminate with it.
The 12th article stipulates that Great Britain shall not stop the vessels of the United States within five marine miles of their coast, except for the purpose of examining whether they be American, or those of another power; and that she shall not stop the unarmed vessels of other powers within the same limit, provided they acknowledge it, except to ascertain whether they belong to those who have acknowledged it. The vessels of the powers who do not adopt the regulation are not affected by it. They remain under the ordinary protection of the law of nations, which extends to the distance of cannon shot, or three miles from the coast. Beyond that limit the enemies of Great Britain have a right to search and seize her vessels, without being amenable to the United States, and the same right is reserved to her by this article, as if it had not been entered into. Vessels of war are expressly excluded from the advantage of the regulation.
It is the sole object of the 12th article to secure to the United States an accommodation, by extending their jurisdiction on their coast, in what concerns themselves, from three to five miles. The stipulation is unconditional as to them, but conditional as to the other powers, dependent on their acknowledging the same limit—it is made reciprocal, by being extended to the British dominions, northward of the United States, a circumstance which merits attention, as it precludes the idea that any other equivalent was expected or intended to be given for it. It would have been extended to the dominion of Great Britain, in Europe and elsewhere, had the British commissioners desired it. They declined it, from a fear that it might produce some innovation in the general doctrine of the law of nations on the subject. This is, I think, fairly to be inferred from the instrument itself.
The last paragraph of the 19th article stipulates that neither of the parties shall permit the ships or goods belonging to the subjects or citizens of the other, to be taken within cannon shot of the coast, nor within the jurisdiction described in article 12th, so long as the provisions of the said article shall be in force, by the ships of war of other powers; but in case it should so happen, the party, whose territorial rights shall thus have been violated, shall endeavour to obtain from the offending party, full and ample satisfaction for the vessels so taken, whether the same be vessels of war or merchant vessels.
If any advantage is given to Great Britain by the arrangement proposed by the 12th article, and this clause of the 19th, to the prejudice of her enemies or of the U. States, it must be by this clause. She can certainly claim none under the 12th article. This clause consists of two distinct members, of very different import. The first contains a general stipulation, conformable to the law of nations, applicable to all the dominions of both parties, and equally so to their ships of war and merchant vessels. With respect to the latter, however, it is conditional. The second member applies to the arrangement made in the 12th article, and in the sense and spirit of that article is carried into effect in favour of other powers, which can only be done by their consent, then the advantage which is secured to them by it, will accrue likewise to Great Britain. What is that advantage? Protection to their merchant vessels within the additional two miles, and nothing else. It is obvious that the protection which is stipulated in favour of ships of war is provided for, by the first member of the clause, and not by the second. It cannot be by both, for the distance defined by them is different, it being three miles in one, and five in the other. It is equally obvious, that the stipulation contained in the second member of the clause, relative to the 12th article, is intended to operate in the spirit of that article, and to be dependent on it. By the terms "nor within the jurisdiction described in article 12th, so long as the provisions of the said article shall be in force," the stipulation contemplated is made conditional. In force, in respect to whom? Not the United States, because it was unconditional as to them. It was conditional only with respect to other powers. Other reasons might be given to show that the arrangement under consideration is not liable to the objection made to it, but I presume that those stated will be satisfactory.
The difficulty to obtain the accommodation which was yielded in the 12th article was extreme. We laboured most earnestly to extend it to other powers, without their consenting to reciprocate it in favour of Great Britain; but that could not be accomplished. The British commissioners urged that as Great Britain predominated at sea, and must lose by the concession in any form, it would be unjust for her to make the concessions in their favour, unless they would allow her the advantage of it. Finding that it was impossible to extend the additional limit to other powers, on other terms, we thought it advisable to adopt the arrangement in respect to them conditionally, putting it in their power to accept or reject it, as they thought fit. We flattered ourselves that as they could not lose by it, they would not refuse their assent to an arrangement by which they might gain, especially as it would prove advantageous to a friendly power. We deemed it highly important to establish the additional limit in favour of the United States, from the advantage it might afford to their commerce
within it, and from the effect which the measure seemed likely to produce on the future conduct of the British squadrons on our coast, by whom, it could not fail to be considered as a severe censure on the past.
It is readily admitted that more suitable terms might have been adopted to accomplish the object in view. But it ought to be recollected that the right of jurisdiction imposes of necessity the obligation of protection, without a special exception to it, there was some difficulty in making an arrangement which should secure to the United States the advantage which they desired, and at the same time exempt them from the duty incident to it.
To your 6th objection, little need be added to what is stated on the subject of it, in our letter of January 3d. 1807. As the paper of the British commissioners to which it relates, had no sanction whatever from us, as was fully shown by the letter, the objection cannot be said to apply to any part of our conduct. The paper was produced by the decree of the emperor of France, of the 21st November, 1806, and was intended by the British commissioners, to operate as a reservation of right, in their government, not to ratify the treaty, or not to be precluded, under certain circumstances, in case it did ratify it, from adopting such measures, as it might find necessary, to counteract the restrictions imposed by that decree. The exercise of the right reserved was made dependent on the abandonment of the principle of that decree by the French government, or an assurance from the government of the United States, or such conduct as would be equivalent, that the pretension would not be submitted to by it. We apprized the British commissioners that our government would enter into no engagement whatever, of what it would do, in any case with another power. Had the treaty been ratified, even without any notice being taken of that paper, it could not have imposed the slightest obligation on the United States, either to perform any act on their part, or to submit to any, on the part of Great Britain. I had supposed, however, in the case of ratification, that we should have been instructed to present to the British government, with the instrument of ratification, a counter declaration to that effect. The whole subject was before our government, with our strong and decided objection to the paper. All that we could do was to transmit it to you, with a correct statement of what had occurred in the negotiation respecting it, which we did. To the government it belonged to take the step which the occasion required, not to us.
Having noticed the objections which are especially stated in your letter of May 20, 1807, and given our view of the several parts of the treaty to which they relate, I shall proceed to make explanatory remarks on the other articles, in order to do justice to the conduct of the American commissioners in regard to them.
Article 5. You admit that this article is an essential improvement of that on the same subject in the treaty of 1794. It certainly improves it in two important interests; 1st, in that of the navigation of the United States, and 2d, in that of duties on American productions carried to the British market. The tonnage on American ships in British ports had been raised to 100 sterling per ton, while that on British ships in the ports of the United States was only 50 cents, or 2s. 6d. per ton; and the duty on the bulky productions of the United States, in American bottoms, had been raised to such a height, under the countervailing regulations which the treaty allowed, as to secure, in time of peace, the entire carriage of those productions to British vessels, if, indeed, it did not materially affect the price of the articles themselves. What made it more unfortunate was, that the United States could not adopt any measure to remedy those evils without committing a direct and palpable violation of the treaty, as they were bound by it not to raise the existing duties higher than they were at the time the treaty was concluded. Those evils would, however, have been completely done away by this article. By it the United States would have a right to raise the duty on British vessels to any height to which the British government might raise it on theirs, a check which could not fail to prove adequate to the object, while they had also a right to give what preference they thought fit to their own vessels, which might be done by reducing the duty on them below the tonnage which was imposed on those of Great Britain. This arrangement secured to the United States an advantage which G. Britain could not countervail, as the necessity she is under to avail herself of every resource which she can raise to command to raise revenue for indispensable purposes, renders it impossible for her to make a like discrimination in favour of her own vessels. The inhibitions of all discriminating duties, on the productions of the one, and manufactures of the other party, whether they be carried on in American or British bottoms, was a stipulation which it was presumed would also prove advantageous to the U. States. The pernicious tendency of that principle was known to you, and we were happy to be able to suppress it.
The objections which you urge to other parts of the articles, apply to clauses in the treaty of 1794, which it was impossible for us to change. I have, however, to observe, that there is nothing in it to prevent the passage of a navigation act, provided it be as a measure of general policy. Most of the nations of Europe, especially France, would be happy, in a general view, to see the United States resort to the expedient to counteract the restrictive system of England: and as it is one which could not essentially affect them, they could find no motive of that kind, to inspire a wish to oppose it, nor could the United States, as I supposed, find one to exempt them from it.
We regretted that we could not obtain a stipula-

tion which should compel G. Britain to repeal the laws which impose so high a duty on her manufactures, when exported to the U. States. Our letter showed that we did every thing in our power to obtain such a stipulation. I was however, persuaded, that the want of it would not expose us to all the evils which you seem to apprehend from it, admitting that the British construction of that clause in the former treaty was a sound one, and that nothing is contained in the 23d article of the present one to discountenance it. It is certain that no government will ever tax exports higher than indispensable necessity compels it, because such a tax tends in all cases essentially to check industry, and to destroy the most productive source of national prosperity. The inhibition imposed by the constitution of the United States on the congress, to tax, in the slightest degree, their exports, affords a strong argument, drawn from the acknowledged wisdom of its framers, against the policy of such a tax, in the abstract; and I am persuaded that the reasons against it are strong with Great Britain, if not stronger, than with any other nation. Without taking a more comprehensive view of the subject, it is sufficient to observe, that a tax on British exports must operate as a bounty in favour of American manufactures, which are already in an advanced state, in certain parts of the union. Great Britain must be sensible of this fact, and aware of the encouragement which the present export duty gives them, and of the consequence attending it. I should presume that there was not much cause to apprehend, that she would tax the export of her manufactures to the United States, to prevent their being sent thence to other countries. The sole effect of such a tax would be to secure to her own vessels the carriage of the articles, if indeed, that were attainable. In both cases the manufactures of Great Britain would be the subject of the commerce. The supply of the great, the productive and increasing markets of the United States, must be a primary object of British policy, and Great Britain would doubtless be cautious not to hazard it for one comparatively of much less importance.
Article 6. As this article was approved, I shall only observe, that I considered the reservation contained in it important, as it enabled the United States to counteract the British policy, in respect to the trade with the West Indies, which is the object of it, by the means the most efficacious, whenever they should be resorted to. The trade of Great Britain with the United States is carried on principally by circuitous voyages, in which her vessels pass from the ports of the United States to the West Indies. By suspending the intercourse between the United States and her West Indies, in British vessels, the chain would be broken, and the whole commerce in such vessels be, in a great measure, suspended. The provision in the article obviously looks to such an object, and the time of carrying it into effect, unless the trade should be placed on satisfactory ground, would have depended altogether on the United States.
Having already noticed the subjects which are embraced by the following articles, I shall add but little more, on any of them, to what is said in our joint letter of January 3d, 1807. The 7th was taken literally from the treaty of 1794. The 8th and 9th amended as you allow, the articles in that treaty on the same subject. The 10th relative to blockade, taken in connexion with the British paper of Dec. 11, 1806, placed, as I presumed, that interest on ground which would be satisfactory. The preamble cannot affect it unfavourably, as it does not alter the acknowledged law. The only effect which it could have, would be to admonish the courts to be cautious in admitting evidence on notice, on account of the distance of the United States from the blockaded ports. It was supposed to give the U. States a claim to a more favourable rule in respect to evidence, than was allowed to powers more contiguous to the theatre of action. The doctrine contained in Mr. Merfy's note to you was not contested by the British commissioners. It is on the contrary not maintained in their note to us of Dec. 31st, 1806, in which it is asserted to be notorious "that the king did not declare any ports to be in a state of blockade without allotting to that object a force sufficient to make the entrance to them manifestly dangerous." I quote the passage in their note to observe that the doctrine is not made conditional on any other part of it, but is laid down as the established law. It justifies the additional remark that the preamble was not intended and cannot be construed to alter the law. It follows that it cannot produce any other effect than that which is above imputed to it.
The 13th article relates to the search of merchant vessels, and differs from the 19th of the treaty of 1794, in the introductory sentence, which enjoins it on the commanders of ships of war and privateers, to observe in the course of the war which may then exist, as much as possible the acknowledged rules and principles of the law of nations; and also in the penal sum [which it increases] to be given by the commanders of privateers before they receive their commissions, as a security for their good conduct under them. It was supposed that in this as in the preceding case the law remained untouched, and that the stipulation produced no other effect, than to enjoin it on the governments respectively, to be particularly attentive to the conduct of its officers in the respect alluded to.
The 13th article and the paper of the British commissioners of the 31st of December, 1806, obviously look to the Russian connexion, as the standard of the acknowledged law respecting the search of merchant vessels and blockade. That instrument was held constantly in view on both sides, in every discussion on those subjects, and indeed on every other to which it extends, and its doctrine admitted, especially in those, to be the established law. We were extremely desirous, and used our best exertions, to introduce articles to the same effect, into our treaty, but it was utterly impossible to accomplish it. It must however be allowed that if engagements of the kind alluded to, especially in regard to blockade, for which there was a special document, would not be observed, that it would be useless to stipulate them by treaty.
On the subject of the 17th article, I have already made some remarks under another head. I cannot think that a stipulation to receive the ships of war of each party, hospitably into the ports of the other, restrains them from limiting the number of ships to be admitted at one time, or from designating the ports to which they shall be admitted. A stipulation to admit them settles only, as I presume, the principle, that they shall be admitted, and leaves open to arrangement the other points connected with it.
This opinion is supported by a passage in the article itself, as to the ports which secure to vessels which might be driven by stress of weather, &c. into ports not open to them in ordinary cases, an hospitable reception in such ports. Had the right to designate the ports been given up by the general stipulation, there would have been no necessity for that contained in this passage. The remark is equally applicable to the other case, that of the number to be admitted at one time.—As that must be an affair of special and strict regulation, an exception which admitted more, by securing rights to them in case they entered, would necessarily defeat the limitation itself.
The stipulation which relates to the good treatment of the officers of each party in the ports of the other, being reciprocal, contains no reflection on one which is not applicable to the other: and I will venture to affirm that it is equally necessary in regard to Great Britain as to the United States. It is well known in respect to the latter, that the passions, which were excited by the revolution, did not long survive the struggle; that the sword was no sooner sheathed, than the calamities of the war were forgotten. The injured are always the first to forgive. It is, however, just to remark that time has essentially effaced, from the people of both nations, the hostile impressions which that arduous conflict produced.
The 23d article was thought to contain an useful stipulation by securing to the United States the advantages in navigation and commerce, which Great Britain might afterwards grant to any other nation. That stipulation was obviously founded on the right of the most favoured nation, and subject of course to the condition incident to it. It amounts to this, that if Great Britain should concede any accommodation to another power in commerce with her East or West India colonies, or any other part of her dominions, gratuitously, the United States would be entitled to it on the same terms; but if she made such accommodation in consideration of certain equivalents to be given her in return, that the United States would not be entitled to those advantages without paying the equivalents. The doctrine is the same in its application to the United States. If they could grant any privileges in trade to France or Spain, for admission in their West India colonies, Great Britain would be entitled to the same, provided she admitted the United States into her islands also, and not otherwise. I could not perceive therefore how it was possible that the United States should be injured by the stipulation contained in this article; while it was probable that they might derive some advantage from it: It could not restrain them from passing a navigation act to place them on an equal footing with G. Britain, especially if it was made general or applied only to her and the other nations having such acts. The right to pass such an act was not taken away by any other stipulation in the treaty, and there was nothing in this article that had such a tendency. The terms "shall continue to be on the footing of the most favoured nation, &c." refer to the principles established by the preceding articles and not to the existing laws or regulations of either party. If the latter was the case, it would follow, that the tonnage duties, the discriminating duties, &c. would remain as they were. The preceding articles were intended, in the points to which they extended, to establish a standard of equality between the parties, to which the regulations of each, whether they exceeded or fell short of it, should be brought. It could not be doubted that the British export duty was of the first description, that it violated the principle of the most favoured nation.—The British commissioners admitted the fact, and did not pretend to justify it on that ground. They argued in its favour only, that the same duty was imposed on exports to their own colonies in America, and that if any change was made in it, to satisfy the claim of the United States on the principle of the right of the most favoured nation, it would be to raise it on the goods exported to other countries, not to reduce it on those sent to the United States. The principle, however, established by this article, being applicable to that duty, it was to be presumed that it might fairly be relied on to obtain a modification of it, either by reducing the duty on exports to the United States, or raising it on those to other nations. There is nothing in this article to restrain the United States from adopting measures to counteract the British policy with respect to the West Indies. If that object had not been secured by a special article, from the possibility of being affected by the others, the principle, established by the present one, could not have affected it, otherwise than beneficially.
Having replied to your objections to the several articles of the treaty, and the papers connected with it, and given our view of them, I shall proceed to make some remarks on the whole subject, to do justice to the conduct of the American commissioners in that transaction.
In every case which involved a question of neutral right, or even of commercial accommodation, Great Britain was resolved to yield no ground which she could avoid, and was evidently prepared to hazard war, rather than yield much. There seemed to be no mode of compelling her to yield, than that of embarking in the war with the opposite belligerent, on which great question it belonged to the national councils to decide. We had pressed the claims of the United States in the negotiation, to the utmost limit that we could go, without provoking the issue. It is most certain that better terms could not have been obtained at the time we signed the treaty, than it contains.
The state of the war in Europe suggested, likewise, the propriety of caution on our part. Russia was then on the side of England, and likely to continue so; and Austria, known to be in the same interest, was holding an equivocal attitude, and ready to take advantage of any favourable event that might occur. Prussia, lately powerful, had been defeated, but was not absolutely subdued; her king, the ally and friend of Alexander, kept the field with him, and made head against France.—The emperor of France, far removed from his dominions, was making the bold and dangerous experiment, of the effect which his absence might produce in the interior, and in a situation to be compelled to risk every thing, if pressed by his adversary, on the precarious issue of a single battle.—These were strong reasons why we should not throw ourselves, too decisively into that scale.
The situation of the United States, always a respectable one, was then less imposing than it usually was. It was known that they were not on good terms with Spain, and that France was the ally of
Spain. Their interior too, was disturbed by a conspiracy of doubtful extent and dangerous tendency, the consequences of which were surely to be greatly magnified by all who were unfriendly to our happy system of government. Those circumstances could not fail to be taken into view, by any the most friendly administration in England, when pressed to make concessions which it was unwilling to make. Add to these considerations the important one, that the British ministry had become much impaired in its strength, especially in what concerned the United States, by the death of a very eminent and distinguished statesman, and had not the power, or thought it had not, to pursue a liberer policy towards the United States, and that its power was evidently daily diminishing.
These considerations induced us to sign the treaty, and submit it to the wisdom of our government, after obtaining the best conditions that it was possible to obtain. We were aware that, in several points, it fell short of the just claims of our country. But we were persuaded that such an arrangement was made of the whole subject as justified us in the part which we took. In the rejection or adoption of the treaty, I felt no personal interest. Having discharged my duty with integrity and zeal, I neither wish applause nor dread censure. Having the highest confidence in the wisdom, the rectitude and patriotism of the administration, I was satisfied that it would pursue the course which an enlightened view of the publick interest, and a just sensibility to the national honour, might dictate.
Our letter of January 3d, was written in haste, and was deficient in many of the explanations which could otherwise have been given of the treaty. I was happy, when at Washington, to find that you were perfectly willing to receive any explanations which I might now be disposed to give of that transaction, and to allow them the weight which they might deserve. In making this communication I have indulged the freedom which belonged to it, in full confidence that it would be approved.
I cannot conclude this letter without adding my most ardent wish, that the administration may succeed in concluding our affairs with every power, to the happiest result. My retirement, which had been long desired, and delayed only by the arduous and very important duties in which I was engaged, had become necessary as a relief to my mind, after much fatigue, and to the interest of my family, which had been neglected and greatly injured by my absence in the publick service. It is still my desire to cherish retirement. Should it, however, be our unfortunate destiny, which I most earnestly hope will not be the case, to be involved in foreign war or domestic trouble, and should my services be deemed useful, I will not hesitate, at the desire of the administration, to repair again to the standard of my country.
I have the honour to be, with great consideration and esteem, your very obedient servant, JAMES MONROE.
CONGRESS.
IN SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
April 15th, 1808.
Mr. Smith of Maryland, on request, had leave to bring in the following bill which was read.
A BILL
In addition to the act, entitled "an act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the U. States, &c." and the several acts supplementary thereto; and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in congress assembled, That during the continuance of the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States, no vessel of any description whatever, and wherever bound, whose employment is confined to the navigation of bays, sounds, rivers, and lakes, within the jurisdiction of the United States, (packets, ferry boats, and vessels exempted from the obligation of giving any bond whatever, only excepted) shall be allowed to depart from any port of the United States, without having previously obtained a clearance, nor until the master or commander shall have delivered to the collector or surveyor of the port of departure a manifest of the whole cargo on board, including articles of domestick growth or manufacture, as well as foreign merchandise. And it shall also be the duty of the owners, agents, or factors of every such vessel, to produce within one month thereafter to the collector of the district from which the vessel departed, a certificate of the landing of the whole of such cargo in a port of the United States, within the bay, sound, rivers or lakes, to which the navigation of such vessel is confined, signed by the collector or surveyor of the port where the cargo shall have been landed.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That if any vessel described in the next preceding section, shall depart from a port of the United States without a clearance, or before the manifest of the cargo shall have been delivered to the collector or surveyor, in the manner therein prohibited, or if a certificate of the landing of the cargo shall not be produced within the time and in the manner therein provided, such vessel and cargo shall be forfeited, and the owner or owners, consignee, agent, factors, freighters, master or skipper of such vessel, shall respectively forfeit and pay a sum not exceeding thousand dollars, nor less than thousand dollars: Provided always, that nothing herein contained, shall be construed to bar or prevent the recovery of the penalty on the bond given for each vessel.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That during the continuance of the act, laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States, and of the several acts supplementary thereto, it shall be the duty of the master or person having charge or command of any vessel, flat, or boat, intended to that port of the river Mississippi, which lies between the southern boundary of the Mississippi territory and the river Iberville, if going down the said river, to stop at Fort Adams, and if going up the river to stop at Iberville, and at each place, as the case may be, to deliver to an inspector of the revenue, to be stationed there for that purpose, a manifest of the whole cargo on board, and also to produce within two months thereafter to the same officer, a certificate of the landing of the same in some port of the district of Mississippi, and within the jurisdiction of the United States; which certificate shall be signed by the collector or one of the surveyors of the district of Mississippi, if the cargo shall be landed more than
thirty miles from the place of residence of any such officer, by a state or territorial judge, having jurisdiction at the place of such landing.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That if any vessel, flat, or boat, shall enter that port of the river Mississippi, as prescribed in the next preceding section, without stopping and delivering a manifest in the manner therein provided, and if a certificate of the landing of the cargo, shall not be produced within the time and in the manner therein provided, such vessel, flat, or boat, and cargo, shall be forfeited, and the owner or owners, consignee, agent, factors, freighters, master, or skipper, of any such vessel, flat, or boat, shall respectively forfeit and pay a sum not exceeding dollars, nor less than dollars.
Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That no ship or vessel, having any cargo whatever on board, shall, during the continuance of the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States, be allowed to depart from any port of the United States, for any other port or district of the United States, adjacent to the territories, colonies, or provinces of a foreign nation; nor shall any clearance be furnished to any ship or vessel bound as aforesaid, without special permission of the president of the United States.—And if any ship or vessel shall, contrary to the provisions of this act, proceed to any port or district adjacent to the territories, colonies, or provinces of a foreign nation, such ship or vessel, with her cargo, shall be wholly forfeited; and if the same shall not be seized, the owner or owners, agents, factors, and freighters of such ship or vessel, shall for every such offence, forfeit and pay and the master and commander of such ship or vessel, as well as all other persons, who shall knowingly be concerned in such prohibited voyages, shall each respectively forfeit and pay for every such offence, whether the vessel be seized or not.
Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That the commanders of the publick armed vessels and gun-boats of the United States, shall, as well as the commanders or masters of the revenue cutters and revenue boats, be authorised, and they are hereby authorised to stop and examine any vessel, flat, or boat, either on the high seas or within the jurisdiction of the United States, which there may be reason to suspect to be engaged in any trade or commerce, or in the transportation of merchandise of either domestick or foreign growth or manufacture, contrary to the provisions of this act, or of the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States, or of any of the acts supplementary thereto, and if upon examination it shall appear that such vessel, flat, or boat is thus engaged, it shall be the duty of the commander to seize every such vessel, flat, or boat, and to send the same to the nearest port of the United States for trial.
Sec. 7. And be it further enacted, That the comptroller of the treasury be and he hereby is authorised, to remit the duties accruing on the importation of goods of domestick produce, or which being of foreign produce, had been exported without receiving a drawback, which may have been or may be re-imported in vessels owned by citizens of the United States, and which have sailed subsequent to the first day of October last, and prior to the twenty-second day of December last, may be or have been stopt on the high seas by foreign armed vessels, and by reason thereof have returned, or may hereafter return to the United States, without having touched at any foreign port or place. And the said comptroller is likewise authorised to direct the exportation bonds given for foreign merchandise exported with privilege of drawback, in such vessels, and re-exported in the same, in the manner aforesaid, to be cancelled, the duties on such re-importation being previously paid, and on such other conditions and restrictions as may be necessary of the revenue.
Sec. 8. And be it further enacted, That during the continuance of the act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States, no foreign ship or vessel shall go from one port in the United States to another; and should any foreign ship or vessel, contrary to this section, go from one port of the United States to another, the vessel with her cargo, shall be wholly forfeited, and the owner, or owners, agent, factors, freighters, and master of such ship or vessel, shall forfeit and pay a sum not exceeding dollars, nor less than dollars.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Monday, April 18.
The following Bills were reported by Mr. Dana, and read the first and second time, and committed to a committee of the whole house, on Wednesday next.
A BILL
Concerning associations for the security of navigation.
Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That in cases wherein the armament of merchant vessels for defence may be allowed by law, it shall be lawful for citizens of the United States to agree that any vessels by them owned shall sail in concert, and be associated for mutual assistance and protection in any voyage, or voyages, not contrary to law, and during the time, or times, which may be declared by instrument in writing, duly executed by such owners, or their authorized agents. The stipulations of the parties in such instrument contained may extend to the equipment and force of the vessels respectively, the relative authority of the masters or commanders, the appointment of places of rendezvous, and times of sailing, the regulation of signals, the direction of the general course of the voyage, or voyages, the orders to be obeyed in cases of separation or danger, and the making of arrangements for conducting and managing the respective vessels as may be most effectual for assistance in any case of peril or misfortune, and for protecting all, or any of them, against forcible seizure or annoyance: Provided, That no such agreement or stipulation shall contravene any instructions or orders issued according to law by the president of the United States.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That the ships or vessels respecting which the owners, or their agents, may have agreed as aforesaid, shall be held for the stipulations contained in any such instrument concerning them, and shall accordingly be chargeable for such compensation or indemnity as may be justly required on account of any failure to

perform the same, as well as for satisfying any reasonable claim or contribution on account of any loss or damage incurred in pursuance thereof. The rates of contribution to be so made shall be apportioned to and among the respective vessels, as the parties may have consented and declared by such instrument, or in case of there being no such declaration, the apportionment of the same shall be adjusted by the discretion of the competent court: Provided , That no ships or vessels shall be so held, unless a copy of the instrument concerning them, as aforesaid, shall have been certified by the parties, and deposited with the clerk or register of a court of the United States having admiralty or maritime jurisdiction, or, in case of being in a foreign country, with a consular agent of the United States.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted , That the courts of the United States having cognizance of causes of admiralty and maritime jurisdiction, shall be, and hereby are authorized and fully empowered to take cognizance of complaints and controversies touching the premises; and that proceedings in all cases concerning the same may be had according to the course of such courts respectively, as in other cases of admiralty or maritime jurisdiction.—But nothing herein contained shall be construed to deprive suitors of the right to a remedy at common law, or in equity, wherever the same may be competent.
A BILL For the encouragement and security of seamen of the United States. Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That no registered ship or vessel shall continue to enjoy the benefits and privileges appertaining to ships or vessels of the United States, unless the mate, or first officer under the master or commander, and the mariners composing the crew, or at least a majority of them, shall be citizens of the United States.
Sec. 2. Be it further enacted , That every mariner who may be shipped for a voyage or voyages in such vessel, if claiming the privileges of a seaman of the United States, at the time of signing the contract required by the act for the government and regulation of seamen in the merchant service, shall make or cause to be made thereon, a memorandum or entry in writing, declaring himself to be a citizen of the United States: and any mariner falsely or fraudulently making such written declaration, or causing the same to be made, shall forfeit all claim to the wages or emoluments which might otherwise be due to him for service in such voyage or voyages, and shall also forfeit and pay to the master, owner or consignee of the ship or vessel, the sum which shall have been paid to him by advance at the time of signing the contract.
Sec. 3. Be it further enacted , That every registered ship or vessel which may be cleared from any port of the United States after the day of and bound to any foreign port or place, shall have on board a list of the officer or officers under the master or commander, and of the mariners composing the crew; which list shall contain the name, age, birth place, residence and personal description of every such officer and mariner, and shall also distinguish each citizen of the United States of America therein mentioned, and shall be certified by the officer or officers authorized to grant the clearance. No registered ship or vessel cleared as aforesaid, and thereafter arriving in any port of the United States, shall be entitled to the benefits and privileges aforesaid, unless there shall be on board a list of the officer or officers, under the master or commander, and of the mariners composing the crew, as herein before required, so that the number of seamen of the United States on board the ship or vessel, may thereby appear and be proved to the satisfaction of the proper officer or officers of the customs.
Sec. 4. Be it further enacted , That no person mentioned in any list as aforesaid, shall be thereon distinguished as a citizen of the United States of America, unless the citizenship shall have been proved, in case of a native citizen, by the oath or affirmation of two freeholders, or reputable merchants of the United States, and, in case of a naturalized citizen, by an authentic copy of the registry, record, or official evidence of the naturalization. But a seaman of the United States, whose citizenship shall have been so proved, and accordingly certified on any list, distinguishing him as aforesaid, may be mentioned and distinguished as aforesaid, in any subsequent list without requiring further proof of his citizenship.
Sec. 5. Be it further enacted , That every collector of the customs shall cause to be transcribed in a proper book or books, to be by him kept for the purpose, so much of all such lists by him certified as may relate to seamen of the United States, and shall transmit a copy thereof every quarter year, together with the evidence of citizenship in each case, to such of the executive departments as may be designated by the President of the United States.
Sec. 6. Be it provided and further enacted , That the places of any seamen of the United States, who shall be lost by death or otherwise after sailing on any voyage or voyages as aforesaid, may be supplied by shipping other seamen or mariners in cases of its being proved requisite for the safety of the voyage to employ them. And the same shall be proved to the satisfaction of the proper officer or officers of the customs of the United States, on arrival of the ship or vessel, by producing a statement in writing, made at the foreign port or place, where such other seamen or mariners may have been shipped, therein setting forth the facts requiring the employment of seamen or mariners for the safety of the voyage as aforesaid, with the number of seamen or mariners so required: to which statement shall be added the certificate of a consul or agent of the United States or a reputable American merchant, or master mariner, if such there be at said port or place, otherwise the certificate of a reputable foreign merchant, or master mariner, declaring either that the statement so made, is to his knowledge just and true, or that the same is, in his opinion, worthy of full faith and credit: which statement shall also be supported by the oath or affirmation of the master and mate, if living, or in case of their decease, by the oath or affirmation of the two principal surviving officers of the ship or vessel.
Sec. 7. Be it further enacted , That no mariner shipped according to law, who may be entitled as aforesaid to the privileges of a seaman of the United States, shall be abandoned or left in any foreign place or country, without his consent in writing, attested by two witnesses, except in cases of desertion, under penalty of a sum not exceeding thousand dollars, nor less than hundred dollars, to be forfeited and paid to him by the master or commander of the ship or vessel, together with all charges and expenses which may have been incurred by such seamen for a passage to the United States. But this provision shall not be construed to extend to cases wherein ships or vessels are lost, by perils of the sea, or by seizure for causes other than the unlawful conduct of the masters or commanders.
Sec. 8. And be it further enacted , That from and after the day of the several collectors of the customs shall cease to deliver certificates of citizenship, commonly called protections, in the manner heretofore practised, under the act entitled "An act for the relief and protection of American seamen," passed the twenty-eighth of May, in the year seventeen hundred and ninety-six, and the fourth section of said act shall be, and hereby is repealed.
KINGSTON, (Jamaica) March 28. Late on Friday evening arrived at Port-Royal, his majesty's brig Demarara , of 18 guns, captain Croton, from Bermuda, in 14 days, bringing dispatches from admiral Sir John B. Warren, to vice-admiral Dacres, stating that Mr. Rose had acquainted Sir John, of the government of America having evinced such symptoms of hostility towards Great-Britain, that he intended to quit the United States immediately, and would touch at Bermuda, on his way to Great-Britain.
March 30. His grace the duke of Manchester and suite, landed from the Guerrier frigate yesterday, and proceeded by the way of Port Henderson, to the Government Penn, near Spanish Town, where an elegant entertainment was prepared on the occasion, which was also attended by a number of respectable characters both civil and military.
BRIDGE-TOWN, (Barbados) March 15. By a gentleman who came passenger in the Prince Ernest Packet , we learn (what had not transpired previous to our last publication), that on her passage she spoke the Cambrian frigate from Sir Richard Strachan's squadron, dispatched by him with advices of his being bound to the Mediterranean in quest of the eloped Rochfort squadron. The Cambrian had touched at Gibraltar, from whence she was also the bearer of dispatches urgently requiring reinforcements for that garrison, the meditated attack upon which was momentarily expected, and threatened to be most vigorously persevered in. A British force was before Ceuta, and had besieged it, the close and active bombardment of which promised soon to compel them into a surrender. The conquest of this fortress will wrest from Spain its only territory on the African shore, and give to England every facility of throwing in relief to Gibraltar.
The report which has been ridiculously circulated this morning, of dispatches having arrived here from admiral Berkeley, advising of the actual commencement of hostilities with America, is not deserving of the least credit. Some dispatches from Sir A. Cochrane have however been received from Bermuda, but cannot relate to any such event, or it would have been known through other channels.
In reverting to the American papers we lately received, we find an article which exhibits so true, but really so melancholy a picture of the effects of the Embargo , or as it may not inaptly be termed, the self-blockade of their ports, that it is evident were it to be long continued and rigidly acted upon, the most ruinous consequences would pervade every part of the United States. Judging from our own present supplies and internal resources, of the British West-Indies at large, very little, or scarce any inconvenience has been felt from the operations of this embargo; to which act, a supplemental one has recently been passed by congress.
SAMUEL COLEMAN, Market-Street, westward of the Market, has established A Boot and Shoe MANUFACTORY. For this purpose, he has employed the journeyman who were lately in the service of Mr. Walker—as those are said to be the best workmen in the place, and as he is determined to spare no expense in getting the best materials, it is probable that those will be well served who choose to promote an institution so favorable to the interests of Norfolk, inasmuch as that it will give employment to a considerable number of people, and it will be made extensive in proportion to the encouragement given to it.
New SHOES from New-York, as usual for Sale—such as have been generally sold in retail at 9s. and 8s. 3d. for 7s. 6d.; those at 18s. for 15s. 6d. except of Morocco leather; Ladies' Morocco Slippers at 8s. 3d. for 7s. 6d. and in nearly the same ratio for every other kind of Shoes, where the former prices will bear reduction.
VERNON'S BOOTS, which are no doubt the most elegant made in the United States. Having on hand nearly 200 pair of Boots, he believes there are very gentlemen who cannot be fitted. A few hundred bushels of ground Alum Salt; India Cottons; Brown Sugar, &c. &c. as low as they can be sold for a profit, for Cash. A. 10 25.
WE, THE SUBSCRIBERS, Trustees chosen by Benjamin Nottingham and John Eyre, to execute the trust reposed in us, by a deed executed by said Nottingham and Eyre and these subscribers, shall sell at Publick Sale, for ready money, at Northampton Court House, on the second Monday in May next, if fair, if not, the first fair day thereafter, the said Nottingham's portion, to wit,
One undivided fifth part of 110 acres, more or less, of the LAND, lately held by said Nottingham's father.
JAMES LYON, } Trustees. GEORGE PARKER, } Northampton, April 15. 1808
On Hand, A few qr. casks of choice Teneriffe WINE, And a few kegs fresh Dutch HERRINGS.—For sale by the Subscriber. Moses Myers. April 25.
FOR SALE, 30,000 acres valuable LAND, situated near the river Washita, in one of the most fertile parts of Louisiana.—Particulars with regard to local advantages, situation, title, and the most favourable terms to purchasers, will be made known, by application to THOMAS LUNNO, in Charleston, or MORRIS MILLER, in Savannah. Feb. 8.
THE PUBLICK LEDGER.
WEDNESDAY EVENING, APRIL 27, 1808.
THE CARRIER of this paper being sick, it is probable that the person employed for the present, may omit some of our subscribers, if so, they are requested to call at the office for their papers.
By the schooner Maria , captain Ferguson, from Kingston in Jamaica, we have received papers to the 30th March, their contents are without interest. We understand that flour on the 31st March was at THIRTY DOLLARS per barrel, and expected to rise.
The Swedish sloop African from St. Bartholomews to this port, having American property on board, was taken on the 19th ultimo, and sent into Tortola. It was reported in the British Islands that a French fleet had arrived in the Chesapeake, with troops, and that the United States had determined to take part with France in the war. This groundless report is likely to be productive of serious injury to our commerce.
Our readers will find a third edition of the Embargo law in this paper, proposed by general Smith of the Senate, which is good evidence that the embargo is not to be taken off shortly, if it will during the war between France and Britain. For the two important Bills reported by Mr. Dana, and inserted in this day's paper, we return our thanks to the gentleman who forwarded them to us from Washington.
CAPTAIN LEE, of the brig Potowmac , has favoured us with an Alexandria paper of Saturday, from which we make some extracts; in addition to which, Captain L. informs us, that Congress would adjourn on Monday.
The ship dispatched by government from Baltimore for France and England, went to sea this morning.
MARRIED—Last evening by the Rev. Mr. Davis, WILLIAM PENNOCK, Esq. Merchant, to MRS. ELIZA RAYNOLDS, both of this place.
The following method of salting and smoking meat, is employed at Franconia; and which requires only eight and forty hours: A quantity of salt pebble, equal to the common salt that would be required for the meat in the usual way, is dissolved in water. Into this the meat to be smoked is put, and kept over a slow fire for a few hours, till all the water is evaporated. It is then hung up in a thick smoke for twenty four hours, when it will be found equal in flavour to the best Hamburg smoked meat, that has been kept several weeks in salt, as red interiorly, and as firm. German Paper.
ALEXANDRIA, April 23. The Senate have passed a bill, fixing the first Monday in November for the next meeting of congress. They have also passed a bill in addition to the supplement to the supplement to the embargo law. This bill restrains the coasting trade within the Capes. Mr. Adams in support of this bill, said he thought it probable either France or England would declare war against America before the first of November next. Wash. Fed.
More provisions [says a Savannah paper] have been shipped from Charleston to St. Mary's in Georgia, and its neighbourhood, since the laying the embargo than had been for five years preceding, and there is very little doubt of the shipments from Savannah to that quarter being proportionably equal. All the flour which arrives is immediately bought up and shipped to that quarter. Every vessel that arrives from the West Indies brings accounts, that vessels laden with provisions are daily arriving there from the U. States. St. Mary's and its vicinity have become the deposit of the extraordinary supplies, on account of its being convenient to smugglers, who swell the list of these daily arrivals in the West Indies.
BALTIMORE, April 21. Arrived brig Margaretta , Davis, 22 days from Point Petre (Gu.) Left there 28th March, brig Respect , Dennis, of Newburyport, to sail in 5 days. The same day we sailed was taken by the Express, capt. Downs, belonging to admiral Cochrane's squadron, then off Marigalante, who pressed James Massey, an American seaman. 29th, being under the lee of said island, Commodore Selby (commanding in the absence of Admiral Cochrane) after opening a number of letters, returned the Margaretta's papers and permitted her to proceed on her voyage.
They put on board the mate, one seaman & a passenger belonging to the schooner Mary Ann , capt. Barney, that sailed from Point Petre for New York. 25th, ordered to Antigua by capt. Downs who returned the remainder of the schooner's crew, we then made sail for Antigua. 30th, at midnight, being under the lee of Antigua, 3 leagues distant, not being able to fetch nearer, we gave them the brig's small boat to join their schooner. 31st, to windward of St. Barts. was boarded by the British sloop of war St. Christopher , detained two hours, opened a number of letters. Captain Davis informed that the British squadron was to attack the battery on Deseada on the 30th as it was a shelter for French privateers.
SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES.
TUESDAY, April 19. A bill to authorize the president of the United States to suspend the operation of the act prohibiting the importation of certain goods, wares and merchandise, and the acts supplementary thereto, was read a third time and passed.
WEDNESDAY, April 20. On motion of Mr. White. Resolved, That it is expedient to authorize the president of the United States to have mangled and equipped for service, with all convenient dispatch,
the frigates and other vessels of war of the United States, to be used, as in his opinion, the circumstances of the country, and the conduct of foreign powers towards the United States may require. A committee was thereupon appointed to bring in a bill conformably to this resolution. The bill entitled "A bill in addition to the act, entitled 'An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States, and the several acts supplementary thereto; and for other purposes,'" was read the third time and passed.
YEAS—Messrs. Adams, Anderson, Condit, Crawford, Guillard, Gilman, Gregg, Howland, Kitchel, Mathewson, Milledge, Pope, Reed, Robinson, Smith, (Md.) Smith, (N. Y.) Smith, (Ten.) Sumpter, Thruston, Tiffin and Turner—21. NAYS—Messrs. Goodrich, Hillhouse, Mitchell, Pickering, and White—5.
Yeas and nays on the passage of the bill to authorize the president of the United States under certain conditions to suspend the operation of the act laying an embargo.
YEAS—Messrs. Adams, Anderson, Condit, Crawford, Guillard, Gilman, Gregg, Howland, Kitchel, Maclean, Mathewson, Milledge, Mitchell, Pope, Reed, Robinson, Smith, (Md.) Smith, (N. Y.) Smith, (Ohio) Smith, (Ten.) Thruston, Tiffin, Turner and White—24. NAYS—Messrs. Goodrich, Hillhouse, Pickering and Sumpter—4.
Gazette Marine Memoranda.
ARRIVED. Sloop Maria , Ferguson, 26 days from Kingston, (Jamaica) Ballast, to the Master. Brig Potomack , Lee, 3 days from Alexandria. Schooner Little John , Downie, from Baltimore bound to Charleston, put back, having sprung the mainmast.
HERBERT'S Packet will sail for Baltimore the first fair wind. April 27.
The schooner Jane , Capt. Le Fort, will sail for New-York the first fair wind. For passage only, apply to the master on board. April 27.
By virtue of a Decree of the Worshipful Court of Princess Anne County, sitting as a Court of Chancery, for the County aforesaid, in the suit of JOHN READE, Complainant, vs. WM. L. KEELING, and MARY his wife, and ELIZABETH HAYNES, Defendants.
WILL BE SOLD at Publick Sale, to the highest bidder, on THURSDAY the 28th day of April next, on the premises, in the Town of Kempville, in the county aforesaid,
The Lot or Lots of LAND, with the Houses and appurtenances belonging thereto, having been the former residence of Mr. Wm. White, deceased. This Property is eligibly situated, and the Dwelling-House is large, excellent and commodious, with good out houses, a fine garden and pasture. The terms of Sale will be Cash, to be paid on the ratification thereof by the Court. William Bishop. William Dale Woodhouse, } Com'rs. Thomas Cornick, } Arthur S. Woodhouse, } Charles Sawyer. } March 23. 1m
NORFOLK BOROUGH.
At a Husting's Court, continued and held the 29th day of October, 1807. John Barrett, and Blandinah his wife, Plaintiffs. Against William James, administrator with the } In Chancery. will annexed of Daniel Hutchings, Defendant.
This cause this day came on to be heard on the bill, answer and exhibit filed, and the arguments of counsel: on consideration whereof, it is decreed and ordered, that the defendant exhibit to Master Commissioner Cowper, all accounts and vouchers in his hands relative to the estate of his testator and the account of sales of the said estate so far as the same has been administered by him, as well as an account of any sum or sums of money, or effects which may have come into his hands in the estate of Elizabeth Hutchings, the former executrix or administratrix, the property of said D. Hutchings, deceased.—And that the Master Commissioner state and settle the said accounts, and report the same to the Court, with any matter specially that either party may require. A Copy, Teste, William Sharp, C. C.
The parties in this cause are desired to attend with their books and papers at my Office, on Tuesday the 10th day of next month, (May) at 10 o'clock in the forenoon of said day. John Cowper, M. C. N. B. Master Commissioners Office, Norfolk } Borough, April 27, 1808. }
FOR SALE, The CARGO of the ship Laconia , capt. Walker, from Live-pool, consisting of 7000 bushels coarse SALT, 27 crates assorted Queen's Ware; 30 ton of Coal. James Young. April 27.
A FREIGHT is wanted For the Schooner BARTHOLOMEW , Captain Crawford, burthen about 900 barrels, to carry any Northern Port. Apply to the master at Newton's wharf, or to Christopher Fry. April 27.
STOLEN from a House in this Borough, about the 15th or 16th instant,
TWO TABLE SPOONS, both marked T. M. G. in a cypher. Any person that will inform the Editor of this paper where the Spoons can be obtained, shall be well rewarded. N. B. Silversmiths and others are requested to stop them if offered for sale. April 25.
NORFOLK, April 25, 1808.
MR GEORGE REID. Sir—Take notice that I shall take the deposition of Matthew Hubbard, or at the office of Robert B. Taylor, attorney at law, in Norfolk, between the hours of ten in the morning and four in the afternoon, of Friday the 27th day of May next, to be used in a suit de ciuing in the Borough Court of Norfolk, wherein I am plaintiff and you are defendant. This notice is given in this mode, as you do not reside within the State of Virginia, and have no known agent or attorney within the state to whom notice can be given. I am, your obedient servant, TILDSLEY GRAHAM.

COW-POCK.
The Subscriber informs those who wish to be vaccinated, that a parcel of fresh matter lately received from Philadelphia, has succeeded, and is now fit to inoculate from him.
April 20. George Balfour. 1m
A WET NURSE FOR SALE.
A Strong NEGRO WOMAN, with a good breast of Milk, and her Boy six weeks old—The Woman is used to washing, ironing, and house-work.
ALSO, A NEGRO WOMAN, an excellent Cook and House Servant. Apply at the Ledger Office. April 22. tf
STOLEN.
A SILVER CANDLESTICK, Stamped on the base J. Lowes. The negro woman who is suspected took it about a fortnight since, may have offered it for sale or pawn for rum, of which she is very fond—FIVE DOLLARS will be given to the person who may bring it to the Office of the Ledger. April 22. tf
CASH for Warwick STAVES.
April 20. Moses Myers. tf
THE STOCKHOLDERS
In the Marine Insurance Company, of Norfolk, are hereby notified that an Election will be held at the Office of the said Company, on the first day of the next month (May), according to law, for the choice of fifteen Directors, for one year, from the said first day of May.
John Cowper, Sec'y. Office of the Marine Insurance Company, the 11th of April, 1808. tdm
THE STOCKHOLDERS
In the Dismal Swamp Canal Company, are requested to meet at the Eagle Tavern, opposite the Market-House, on Monday, the 2d day of May next, at 12 o'Clock, to elect a President and Directors, and other business of importance to the said company.
RICHARD BLOW, President. April 13. tdm
ENGLISH GOODS.
Appleton & Co.
By the John Adams, St. Johns, from Liverpool, No. 16, Calvert-Street, Baltimore, have received their regular supply of GOODS, calculated for the present and approaching season.
Cambric and Common Callicoes, Plain and striped Dimities; Printed Marseilles Vesting, White Jeans; Furniture Chintz; do. Dimities, London Superfine Broad Cloths; do. Cassimeres, Yorkshire fine Cloths and Cassimeres; patent Nankeens, Cord; Grandurella; Cotton Cassimeres, 6-4 and 4-4 Cambric Muslins, Japan, Haricot, and Check do. plain and figured Mull do. Leno, Victory, and Riddle Muslin; coloured do. do. do. 4-4 plain Book do.; Ginghams; Silk do. Satins, Persians, and Sarinets; Bonnet Silks; Silk Gloves, Silk Handkerchiefs; Fancy Shawls, Cotton Umbrellas, do. Braces, do. Laces and Footings, do. Quiltings, English Kid Gloves, Cotton Hosiery, Handkerchiefs, Fringe and Bed Lace, Cotton and Linen Checks; Buttons; Birmingham Ware. In Store, a few dozen gentlemen's best Beaver Hats, from Marseilles. These goods will be sold low for cash, or undoubted paper at 60 days. April 15. 10
Mackinder & White,
Have just received from on board the schooner Liberty, Capt Lewis, from Philadelphia, 150 boxes fresh Imperial and Hyson TEAS, of superior quality.
ALSO, A fresh supply of Hollands GIN, Ticklenburgs, superfine Cloths, Gentlemens' Silk Hats, Parols, &c.—Which they offer for Sale on the lowest terms, for cash or approved notes. N. B. A few barrels of prime Smithfield MESS PORK. April 13. tf
Thirty Dollars Reward.
RANAWAY from the Subscriber on the 22d of last month, a bright mulatto, named CALEB, about 24 years of age, bow legged; he has a red mark upon his neck just below his right ear, (as well as I can recollect.) I will give the above reward to any person or persons that will secure the said negro so that I get him again, and if delivered to me all reasonable charges shall be paid. H. PITTS. Northampton, Eastern-Shore, Virg. April 11, 1808. 7*
Landing from the schooner Antelope, Capt. Putnam, 100 hhds. & 12 tierces MOLASSES, 24 bags Green Coffee. Also received from New-York, New Mess and Prime PORK, Mess and Prime BEEF. For Sale by Jennings & Roddey. April 13. tf
A Cargo of Liverpool Stoved SALT, For Sale on board the ship Mars. Moses Myers. April 18. tf
6000 bushels St. Ubes SALT—afloat. IN STORE, 35 puncheons 3d and 4th proof Antigua Rum, 100 hogsheads Sugar, principally Antigua, 40,000 wt. Green Coffee; 850 Demijohns, 7,500 bushels coarse Salt; 100 barrels Rye Whiskey, 30 tierces London Brown Stout, 20 hogsheads Philadelphia Ale and Porter, 130 barrels superfine and fine Flour; 40 kegs fresh Raisins, 10 pipes London particular Madeira Wine, fit for use, 600 ready made Check Shirts; 20 hhds. Petersburg Tobacco, 30 barrels Pork; 100 barrels Sugar; a few cases Hermitage For Sale on liberal terms by C. & F. Whittle. February 5. tf
NOTICE.
Lost, a CERTIFICATE, certifying my right to four Shares in the Virginia Bank Stock, in consequence of which I shall make application to the Bank for a new one. I request that any person who shall get possession of it, will return it to the subscriber. Edward Watson, 1m6w April 15.
Intending to leave the country for a few months, I have appointed Mr. William Dickson my attorney. Bartholomew Redmon. April 7. 1m
COCKE & SANFORD, Have received eighteen hogsheads and eighteen barrels Loaf and Lump SUGAR, which they offer for Sale on very moderate terms. On hand of their last importation, 2 bales flaxen QZNABURGS, 2000 wt. Seine Twine; 1 bale assorted Blue Cloths, 1 bale superfine Navy Blue Cloths, 2 boxes well assorted Irish Linens, Irish and Dutch Sheetings and Dowlas, 2 Trunks Cotton Hosiery; 1 case Dimities, 2 do. assorted Nankeens and Grandurella, 3 do. Callicoes; 2 do. Cotton Cambricks, 1 b x French Cambricks and Handkerchiefs, 2 cases Mens' and 1 do. Childrens' fashionable Beaver Hats. Feb. 23. 2m
BOOTS.
Elegant Hussar & Backstrap BOOTS, Just received and for Sale by Wood & Hastings, Opposite Market-Square. Feb. 8. tf
NOTICE.
The Copartnership of RICHARD BOWDEN, & Co. having expired, Richard Drummond is authorised to receive and pay the debts of said concern. Moses Myers, Richard Bowden, Richard Drummond. tf
February 2. Cognac Brandy, Hollands Gin, Country do. in pipes, Rice in tierces and half tierces—For Sale by C. & F. Whittle. February 24. tf
For SALE at my Brew-House, Strong, Table, and Ship BEER, by the hogshead, barrel, and half barrel—and a constant supply of bottled PORTER in packages and by the dozen. And in Store, Wines, Liquors, and Groceries, wholesale and retail. Joseph Hayes. Feb. 18. tf
For SALE, 45,000 wt. good COFFEE in bags, 94 puncheons old St. Kitts RUM. MOSES MYERS. January 8. tf
For SALE, 73 punch. choice Antigua RUM, 30 do. Grenada do. 600 bushels CORN, 80,000 drawn White and Red Oak STAVES, 60 barrels Pork. George Wilson. November 4. tf
NOTICE.
The Subscribers have removed to the Ware-House, No. 6, on Newton's wharf, formerly occupied by Messrs. John D. Haldane, & Co. JENNINGS & RODDEY. January 8. tf
First quality Jamaica COFFEE. Just received and for Sale, 77 tierces and 24 barrels prime Green COFFEE. James & Thomas Tucker. December 28. tf
For RENT, A commodious small DWELLING, with all suitable out-houses and a good garden, pleasantly situated on Smith's Point. Possession may be had on the first of November. P. Barraud. October 5. tf
For RENT, The Store, Compting-Room & Cellar, at present occupied by Mess. Wood & Hastings, no. 90, Main-street. Apply to Thomas Willock. August 24. tf
FOR RENT.
The STORE in Market-Square, now occupied by the subscriber. For terms apply at his office. Thomas Blanchard. April 7. tf
The Subscriber having resumed his former Business of Commissioner and Broker, will buy or sell Goods on Commission, post Books, adjust Accounts, and procure Money on good paper or merchandise, at the shortest notice. James Maurice, No. 44, Church-Street. March 30. tf
For SALE, 2 elegant Bay Horses, a complete match, 2 do. grey do. do. do. 1 remarkable fine bay, and one very excellent grey Horse—For which, Notes of the Bank of Newbern and Cape-Fear, or Prime Money will be taken in payment.—Apply at the Office of the Publick Ledger. Sept. 25. tf
FOR RENT,
That convenient Dwelling-House, on Brewer Street, the property of Mr. John Davidson, at present occupied by Mr. Stephen Harris. Also, That convenient House, where Mr. Cornelius Calvert formerly lived; they have very fine gardens and all convenient out-houses—possession may be had on the first day of May next, on application to James Tucker. April 13. tf
Intending shortly to leave this town, the Subscriber informs the publick, that from this day he will sell at the first cost, All his STOCK, Consisting of DRY GOODS, and every kind of ready made CLOTHES. B. Danfossy. No. 24, Market-Square. April 13. 3*
For SALE, On board the ship Damascotta, Robert Duckendorff, master, at Commerce-Street Wharf, Coarse Liverpool SALT, St. Vincent's RUM and MOLASSES. Moses Myers. April 15. tf
For SALE, On board the ship Damascotta, Robert Duckendorff, master, at Commerce-Street Wharf, Coarse Liverpool SALT, St. Vincent's RUM and MOLASSES. Moses Myers. April 15. tf
For SALE, 4000 bushels Ground Allum SALT, And a few well assorted crates of EARTHENWARE. George Murray, & Co. December 7. tf
Fresh Imperial TEA. Just received 17 boxes fresh Imperial TEA, of the present year's importation—Also on Hand, 25 tons assorted BAR IRON, 80 barrels and a few hogsheads Muscovado Sugar, 40 barrels and bags Green Coffee; 25 hhds. old Antigua Rum, 20 hhds. Molasses; 8 pipes French Brandy, 10 crates assorted Queen's Ware, A few quarter casks of Sherry and Tenerife Wine, Whiskey in barrels; Loaf Sugar, New-York prime Pork and Beef; 30 casks Cheese, A few barrels Mackarel; Soap; Candles; Demijohns, &c. For Sale by Jennings & Roddey. February 26. tf
NOTICE.
The partnership of Ellis & Sprigg, of Hampton, is this day by mutual consent dissolved—all persons indebted to the said firm are requested most earnestly to come forward and pay their respective balances to Mr. C. Sprigg; and all those who have claims against said firm, to produce them to said C. Sprigg for settlement. Samuel Ellis, Per his Attorney in fact, Robert Gibson, Corbin Sprigg. tf
Hampton, February 17. For CASH or approved Discountable Paper, 20 bales best Russia CANVAS, 1 do. Ravens Duck; 1 do. Matrass Tickling, 65 packages German Linen—For Sale by Niemeyer & Von Kapff. February 26. tf
Now landing from the schooner Prudence Mary, from New-York, 17 hhds. first quality SUGARS, 54 barrels prime Pork, city inspection, 70 boxes Mould Candles; 5 hhds. double refined Sugar, 5 pipes Brandy; 25 reams Writing Paper, 2 trunks fine and coarse French Lace, which will be sold at a low rate for Cash. Apply at No. 1, Commerce-street to William Hull, Jun. October 16. tf
Just got to Hand. 22 chests Hyson TEA, will be sold low for cash. George Wilson. Nov. 18. tf
The following prices will be given in Cash for 500 or 600 cords of BARK, deliverable at my Tan Yard, Spanish Oak, $ 6 per cord, Willow or Water do. 5 Red do. 4 Young White do. 3 50 Beach Bark, 3 50 With a view to prevent disappointment to those who procure this article, arising from the uncertainty of the quantity which may be brought to market, I will receive all which may be delivered at my landing before the first day of June, provided it be well cured and in good order. Theoderick Armistead. April 4. 2m
Now landing from on board the schooner Mohawk, Roger Quarles, master, from Leghorn, 120 hogsheads Bordolease CLARET, 96 casks Rott Brimstone, 100 boxes Castile Marbled Soap, 50 tin boxes Saffron, 5 cases Florence Silks of all colours, a great many black, 2 hhds. shelled Almonds, 100 half chests Lucca Oil, of 30 flasks, 100 boxes Lucca Oil, 12 bottles each, 3 cases Chip Hats. For Sale by William Pennock. October 12. tf
WOOD & HASTINGS, No. 76, Main-Street, Have just received an additional supply of Staple and Fancy GOODS, Among which are Black Silk Velvet; Tabby, do.; Black Silk Florentine; Silk Handkerchiefs; do. Fancy Shawls; Convex Navy Buttons; fashionable Coat do.; a variety of French Goods; 2 trunks Cambric Muslins; 2 cases Linens; 2 bales Cotton Checks; 1 do. Gilla Handkerchiefs; 5 do. India Cottons, assorted, some very fine for Shirtings; a variety of Woollens. They have also on hand a general and extensive assortment of WOOLLEN GOODS. Every description of fancy Muslins and Dresses; Velvets; Constitution and President's Cords; Dimities; Carpets; Hosiery, &c. &c. On consignment, just received, Hussar and Backstrap BOOTS; Ladies' Kid and Morocco Shoes; Mens' coarse do.; coarse and fine Hats. The above GOODS will be sold at very reduced prices for CASH, or undoubted credit, by wholesale and retail. December 11. tf
The Subscriber grateful for past favours, takes the liberty of informing the publick, that in addition to his BEER and PORTER-HOUSE, he has rented the upper apartment of that commodious house situated at the corner of Wide Water and Commerce-Streets, formerly occupied by Mrs. Bryan, which he has opened as a Tavern, by the name of the GLOBE TAVERN, and will keep a constant supply of the best of Liquors; and for the accommodation of customers, he will keep a constant supply of prime New-York Ale, Philadelphia Beer and Porter. Solicitors for a share of publick patronage, he assures those who may favour him with their custom, that every attention will be paid to give satisfaction. Gentel Boarders can be accommodated by the week, month, or year, upon moderate terms. Good Stabling and forage for a few horses. WILLIAM TONKIN.
Two TENEMENTS situated on Town-Point, will be rented cheap, together or separate.—For terms apply as above. April 7. 1m
At the Old CUT-NAIL Manufactory, corner of Main and Church-streets, the subscriber keeps on hand constant supply, and can furnish at short notice, any quantity of Nails, Flooring Brads and Sprigs, At the following reduced prices, by the Keg—for each only, viz.—
8, 10, 12, and 20d Nails and Brads at 7 1-2d lb. 6d. Nails, 9 1-2d 4d. do. 2s. 9d. m. or 11d 3d. do. 2s. 3d. or 12d Sheathing, 7 1-2d 6d. Sprigs, 4s 6d per M. 6d. do. 2s 9d 2d. and 3d. do. 2s. 3d. He offers also for cash only— HOOP IRON ASSORTED. Thos. Seaman.
6000 bushels Stoved SALT, 50 crates well assorted Earthenware—For Sale on board the ship Sally, by A. Maclure. March 2. tf
NOTICE.
I am again compelled to solicit all those indebted to the estate of PHILIP COLLINS, deceased, to make immediate payment, as no longer indulgence can be given. Jane Collins, Adm'r x. December 9. tf
Phoenix Fire Office.
The Subscriber, Agent to the PHOENIX ASSURANCE COMPANY, of London, for the State of Virginia, begs leave to inform the publick, that he is now fully empowered to subscribe Policies of Insurance for property against Fire throughout the United States of America, in conformity to the Proposals herewith subjoined.
N. B. FORTY THOUSAND DOLLARS can be insured in one risk on Buildings and their contents, and also on Ships and their Cargoes on board, in the First Class, but in all cases where Ten Thousand Dollars are exceeded, a special agreement must be made with the Agent, and an increase of premium added to those mentioned in the proposals, of not less than one eighth per cent. on the whole sum insured. Richard Taylor. September 8. 157
AT PRIVATE SALE, BY S. MARKS, JUN. 60 hogsheads St. Kitt's RUM. March 2. tf
Richard Jeffrey & Co.
No. 66, Main-street, corner of Bank-Street, have just received from London, per the ship Planter, An assortment of MEDICINES, of the first quality.
Also, a few hundred weight refined Salt-Petre, Hardham's Snuff, No 9, and 37, in 1-2 and 1-4 pound canisters, Violet, Benzoin, Windsor and Shaving Soap, Evan's best Crown Liniments, Tooth Brushes of superior kind, Refined Liquorice, &c. They have on hand, and are in daily expectation of receiving from Amsterdam, all kinds of GLASS WARE, suitable to Apothecaries. MEDICINE CHESTS for ships and family use, with printed directions, put up as usual. October 5. tf
Leather, Cordage, and Loaf Sugar. The subscriber will hereafter expose for Sale at his Warehouse on Campbell's wharf the above Articles, of the manufacture of Norfolk, at reduced prices for Cash, or on short credits only. Theo. Armistead. Feb. 20. tf
He will sell or lease for a term of years, the STORES at the end of Marsden's and Rothery's wharves. Feb. 20. tf
At Private Sale, By S. MARKS, Jun. Corner of Commerce and Water-street, 10 hhds. Antigua, 12 do. N. E. 50 barrels do. RUM, 30 hhds and 20 barrels Sugar; 10 pipes Country Gin, 8 pipes Cognac Brandy; 150 boxes Mould Candles; 0 boxes Spermaceti Candles; 4 bales striped Blankets, 3 bales Blue Duffles; 1 do. fine Cloths; 2 do. blue Plains, 2 do. Rugs; 1 do. Check Shirts, 54 do. Ticklenburgs and Osnaburghs; 2 do. Hefians, 1 trunk Madras Handkerchiefs. October 24. tf
THE SUBSCRIBER Has removed to the brick store at the head of Campbell's wharf, fronting said wharf and Wide Water-street, where he offers at wholesale or retail his assortment of Groceries and Ship Chandlery, Among which are 14 hogsheads Muscovado SUGAR, 1 do. and 6 barrels loaf do. 1 do. Antigua, Jamaica, and Grenada Rum, 3 pipes French Brandy, 2 hhds. and 6 bbs Rye Whiskey, 4 barrels Apple Brandy, 1 do. Peach do. 10 bags Coffee, Imperial, Hyson, Young Hyson, and Souchong Teas, Pepper, Pimento, and Nutmegs, Madeira, Sherry, and Port Wines, London and Philadelphia Porter, English Cheese, Nail Iron and Castings, Bar and Spike Rods, German Steel, Powder and Shot, Tar, Pitch & Turpentine, Paints and Oil, black and bright Varnish, Canvas and Cordage, Nails and Spikes. Also just received, 20 boxes Lemons, 12 half bbs. Beef Tongues, 20 kegs Tongues and Sounds, 40-kegs and 2 bbs Salmon, 5 bbs. Mackarel, 15 cases Sallad Oil, 1 case Currants, 10 boxes Olives, Capers and Anchovies, 6 dozen bottles Cayenne Pepper, 3 to do. Pickled Peppers, 30 boxes Soap, 20 boxes Candles, 50 barrels Alexandria superfine and fine Flour. J. M. D. Haldane. July 31. tf
Thomas H. Parker, Offers for Sale, His Great-Bridge MILL, newly fitted up to run two pair of stones.—The advantages of this mill are very great, only ten miles from Norfolk, and situated on a never failing stream; although she works at present only two pair of stones, yet the stream affords an abundant supply for ten pair—Also, a MILL (known by the name of Bell's Mills) about two miles farther, now in complete order, running one pair of stones and two faws—This Mill is supplied with water from very extensive swamps, and in wet season very plentifully; at its place there is a store, the situation of which, for a lumber store, is equal if not superior to any in that part of the country—This Mill can be supplied with excellent timber from a tract of land only one mile distant from it, which the subscriber also offers for sale. This tract contains between 5 and 600 acres, almost entirely covered with timber; the soil, the subscriber confidently believes, is not inferior to any in the lower part of Virginia.—Any person purchasing this Plantation would have the benefit of a reed swamp within three miles of it, in which any number of cattle may be kept fat during the whole winter. October 5. tf
The Subscriber offers for Sale, 78 puncheons well flavoured RUM, A few pipes Old Bordeaux Brandy, and 22 hogsheads choice retailing Molasses. Phinehas Dana. March 2. tf
NORFOLK. PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A-WEEK, BY WILLIAM DAVIS, FOR THE PROPRIETOR. Opposite the Exchange Coffee-House. Price Six Dollars yearly, in advance.