The Patowmac guardian, and Berkeley advertiser (Shepherdstown, Va. [W. Va.]), 1791-11-14 00:00:00

CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
WEDNESDAY, October 26.
THE House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, on the communications made yesterday by the President, to both Houses.
Mr. Vining moved a resolution, that an answer should be prepared, expressive of the intention of the House to take into consideration the several matters in the President's speech; of congratulation on the present happy state of America; and of approbation of the arrangements made by the President.
Mr. Lawrance thought that the House ought to be further informed of particulars, before they ventured to express their approbation. The President had promised them that information; and it would be improper to commit themselves, before they received it. It was best to confine themselves to an assurance, that they would bestow on the different subjects as early an attention as possible. Such was the mode pursued on a former occasion, when the House cautiously avoided entering into particulars.
Mr. Vining neither wished on the one hand to pay undeserved compliments, nor, on the other, to commit the House; but he thought the resolution conveyed no such idea; and that they would not commit themselves, by adopting it.
Mr. Sedgwick observed, that he was not prepared for the motion. It approved the conduct of the executive as wise and prudent; he did not doubt that it was so; but the House had not yet received those official informations, which were necessary, before they could venture to express an opinion. He wished the House should proceed with caution in this business; and that a select committee should be appointed, to prepare an address in answer to the President.
Mr. Smith (S. C.) approved of the mode following at the commencement of the late session, of confining themselves to a few words, and assuring the President that they would take the matters into consideration. He thought it would be imprudent, without examination, to approve measures, that were to be the objects of future consideration. Besides, whilst so many members were absent, it would be improper for those present, to express a decided opinion upon matters, which were afterwards to be considered by a full house. He proposed that the answer should be simply expressive of assurances, that the House would bestow due attention on the various and important matters submitted to their consideration.
Mr. Livermore approved of the original motion, except in two particulars. With respect to the administration of the excise law, the House was as yet in the dark, how the divisions were made, whether into districts or surveys; and how the officers were paid. Nor had they as yet received any information about the particulars of the western expedition. It would be improper to decide before they received sufficient information. If these two points were glanced over, he approved of the general tenor of the resolution.
Mr. Gerry moved to strike out all the latter part of the resolution.
Mr. Vining begged the House would recur to the first session of Congress when the answer to the President's speech was very pompous, though not exaggerated. The last session was very different, and did not require a full answer.
Mr. Clark did not rise to find fault with what the President had done; he supposed he had in every thing acted wisely; but he wished to be acquainted with particulars before an approbation of his conduct was expressed. He hoped the motion for striking out would take place.
Mr. Hatcher thought a general congratulation on the prosperity of America, would be sufficient, without entering into a detail.
The question being put on the motion for striking it out, it passed in the affirmative.
Mr. Sedgwick hoped that every thing which required consideration, would be seriously considered; but there were many things proper to be communicated, which afterwards required no consideration.
Mr. White observed that the constitution made it the duty of the President to recommend to the consideration of the house such things as he thought proper; the house might afterwards consider them as they thought it expedient. He thought the President would not communicate any thing that was improper for their consideration. An intimation had been given that the committee would, in their answer, re-echo the President's speech: he hoped it would not be the case. It is done by the Parliament of Great-Britain: but it is afterwards productive of inconvenience, as the members are trammelled by the address. The same would be the case here. He therefore hoped the amendment proposed by the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Smith) would be adopted.
Mr. Lawrance observed that decency required an answer to the speech, as soon as possible; but it would be improper that the house should bind themselves. If any words could be added to the resolution, to make it more accurate, he had no objection. The house knew from their own feelings, whether they intended seriously to consider the business recommended to them or not: but there was no part of it which was not serious and worthy of attention.
Mr. Vining thought, that if his original resolution was too long, the new one was too short. He hoped, that the congratulations of the house to the President on the happy situation of the United States, would be added.
The question being taken on the amendment, it passed in the affirmative; after which the committee rose and reported the resolution as amended.
Mr. Sedgwick having called for a division of the report, and the question being severally taken on both parts, and passed in the affirmative, a select committee was appointed to prepare an answer.
A memorial was then read from the distillers of the town and vicinity of Boston, praying sundry amendments in the excise law.
A memorial was also read from the Sheriff of the county of Suffolk, respecting the mode of keeping prisoners confined for debt, under the laws of the United States.
On motion of Mr. Lawrance, ordered, that the clerk of the house should cause each member to be furnished, during the session, with three newspapers, such as the members should respectively choose; and to be delivered at their lodgings.
On motion of Mr. Vining, a committee of seven was appointed, to examine the credentials of the several members, and report thereon to the house.
The house then proceeded to the consideration of a motion laid on the table by Mr. Vining at the opening of the session, for the appointment of a committee, to report a proper mode of determining cases of contested elections of members of the house.
Mr. Livermore opposed the motion, as unnecessary, since the constitution had already pointed out the mode. Whenever such a case might occur, it would then be time enough to determine, according as particular circumstances might require. Every member of the house has a right to determine in such cases: The meanest of their constituents have a right to determine: And they cannot be deprived of that right.
The house has not a right to delegate that power, any more than the power of legislation. It would be dangerous, he observed, to erect any other tribunal, than that pointed out by the constitution. The people had already legislated for them, and made their house the proper tribunal. Whenever, and from whatever cause a dispute of a particular nature may occur, the house may then point out a particular mode. It is said, he continued, that if we now establish the mode, before the case occurs, we will remove all appearance of unfairness in the mode; but we do not know that there will be any contested election in this, or the next Congress; and if there should, it will be then time enough to determine. He concluded by declaring his opposition to the appointment of a committee.
Mr. Vining replied, that he had in view a contested election from Georgia; that it would be necessary to bring a number of witnesses before the house; and that the length of time would alone be sufficient to render the decision unfair. It would moreover be a great expense to the nation, to have the whole house employed in a business which could be determined by a few members: The names of all the members might be put in a box, and the appointed number drawn by chance. He thought it was not unconstitutional to delegate the power in question to a committee of their own body. Perhaps, however, some modification might be adopted, that the house should ratify the report of such a committee, or correct and amend it, as the case might require.
Mr. White felt himself as little disposed to give up the privileges of the house as the gentleman from New-Hampshire: but thought, that, without infringing the rights of any man, the house may limit the time and manner of determining contested elections. They may make regulations to have the evidence taken in the state where the case occurs, so as to have the whole on paper before the house, without waste of time. He wished that some measures might be taken to determine elections speedily and effectually. If this were not done, it was to no purpose, that the constitution had been formed; as it would be in the power of the returning officer of the different states, to determine who should sit in that house.
Adjourned.
FRIDAY, October 28.
Agreeably to the order of yesterday, the speaker, attended by the members of the House, proceeded
by the sergeant at arms bearing the mace, waited on the President of the United States, and presented to him their address in answer to his speech.
To GEORGE WASHINGTON, President of the United States.
SIR, IN receiving your address at the opening of the last session, the House of Representatives have taken an ample share in the feelings inspired by the actual prosperity and flattering prospects of our country; and whilst with becoming gratitude to heaven, we ascribe this happiness to the true source from which it flows, we behold with an animating pleasure the degree in which the constitution and laws of the United States, have been instrumental in dispensing it.
It yields us particular satisfaction to learn the success with which the different important measures of the government have proceeded; as well those specially provided for at the last session, as those of preceding date. The safety of our western frontier, in which the lives and repose of so many of our fellow-citizens are involved, being peculiarly interesting, your communications on that subject are proportionally grateful to us.
The gallantry and good conduct of the militia whose services were called for, is an honorable confirmation of the efficacy of that precious resource of a free state. And we anxiously with that the consequences of their successful enterprises and the other proceedings to which you have referred, may leave the United States free to pursue the most benevolent policy towards the unhappy and deluded race of people in our neighbourhood.
The amount of the population of the United States, determined by the returns of the census, is a source of the most pleasing reflections, whether it be viewed in relation to our national safety and respectability, or as a proof of the felicity in the situation of our country, which favours so unexampled a rapidity in its growth.
Nor ought any to be insensible to the additional motive suggested by this important fact, to perpetuate the free government established with a wise administration of it, to a portion of the earth which promises such an increase of the number which is to enjoy those blessings within the limits of the United States.
We shall proceed with all the respect due to your patriotic recommendations; and with a deep sense of the trust committed to us by our fellow-citizens, to take into consideration the various and important matters falling within the present session. And in discussing and deciding each, we shall sell every disposition whilst we are pursuing the public welfare, which must be the supreme object with all our constituents, to accommodate, as far as possible the means of attaining it to the sentiments and wishes of every part of them.
To which the President made the following reply.
GENTLEMEN, THE pleasure I derive from an assurance of your attention to the objects I have recommended to you, is doubled by your concurrence in the testimony I have borne to the prosperous condition of our public affairs.
Relying on the sanction of your enlightened judgment, and on your patriotic aid, I shall be the more encouraged in all my endeavours for the public weal; and particularly in those which may be required on my part for executing the salutary measures I anticipated from your present deliberations.
G. WASHINGTON.
The speaker and members then returned to their House, and after reading the President's reply, proceeded to the business of the day.
A message was received from the President of the United States by Mr. Lear his secretary, communicating returns of the enumeration of the inhabitants of the United States; also a letter from the Governor of Pennsylvania, with sundry documents and papers, respecting sundry persons who have fled from justice out of the state of Pennsylvania into the state of Virginia; also a letter from the Governor of North Carolina, containing a cession by that state to the United States of two lots of land for the purpose of building light-houses, which message with the papers and documents accompanying the same, were read and ordered to lie on the table.
On motion of Mr. Sedgwick, ordered, that that part of the President's message containing communications from the Governor of Pennsylvania be referred to a select Committee, to bring a bill or bills, providing means whereby persons who flee from justice, from one state into another, will be delivered up to the executive of the state having cognizance of the crime: Also providing means whereby persons held to service in one state and fleeing to another shall on the application of the executive be delivered up to the person claiming such service.
On motion of Mr. Smith, ordered, That the schedule of the census of the inhabitants of the United States, transmitted by the President be referred to a committee of the whole house, to be taken up on Monday next, and that one hundred copies be printed.

ed. The papers and documents accompanying the President's message of yesterday communicating reports of Gen. Scott and Col. Wilkinson upon the expedition against the Indians, were read and ordered to lie on the table.
On motion of Mr. Sedgwick, ordered, That a committee be appointed to bring in a bill for the establishment of the post-office and post-roads, and that Mr. Livermore, Mr. Bourne, of Rhode-Island, Mr. Clarke, Mr. Steel, and Mr. Thatcher be the said committee.
MONDAY, October 31.
Sundry petitions were presented and read, as was likewise a memorial from an Italian sculptor, proposing to erect a monument in memory of the late revolution.
The House then, pursuant to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee of the whole Mr. Muhlenburg in the chair) and took up for consideration the schedule of the enumeration of the inhabitants of the United States.
TUESDAY, November 1.
General Wayne, a representative from the state of Georgia, and Mr. Parker, from Virginia, appeared, and took their seats.
A message was received from the President of the United States, by his private secretary, communicating a report of the secretary of the treasury on the execution of the excise law, which commenced the 1st day of July last, and a letter of the district judge of South Carolina, with documents, stating the reasons why the census or enumeration of the inhabitants of that state has been delayed.
The report on the excise law was read, and contained an arrangement of the districts into which the United States has been divided; for the more easy collection of the said duty, viz.
New-Hampshire makes one district, and has a supervisor, who also performs the duty of inspector; his salary is 500 dollars, and a commission of one half per cent. on the collection of the excise.
Massachusetts is divided into three districts, No. 1, 2 and 3. The supervisor who also performs the duty of inspector in the 1st district, has a salary of 800 dollars and one half per cent. on the collection. The inspectors of No. 2 and 3, each 500 dollars and one half per cent.
Rhode-Island, one district, supervisor performs the duty of inspector, his salary 500 dollars and one half per cent.
Connecticut, one district, supervisor also performs the duty of inspector, his salary 600 dollars and one half per cent.
Vermont, one district, supervisor performs the duty of inspector; salary 400 dollars and one half per cent.
Pennsylvania, four districts, the supervisor performs the duty of inspector in the first district; his salary 1000 dollars, and 1 per cent. in that district. The inspectors of the other three districts have each a salary of 450 dollars and one per cent.
Delaware, one district, supervisor performs the duty of inspector; salary 400 dollars and one per cent.
Maryland, two districts, the supervisor performs the duty of inspector of the first district; his salary is 700 dollars and 1 per cent. in that district. The inspector of the 2d district has a salary of 450 dollars and one per cent.
Virginia is divided into seven districts the supervisor performs the duty of inspector in the first district, and has a salary of 1000 dollars and one per cent. in that district. The inspectors of the 2d, 3d, 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th districts have each a salary of 450 dollars and one per cent.
North-Carolina, five districts, the supervisor performs the duty of inspector in the first; salary 700 dollars and two per cent. in that district. The inspectors of the 2d and 3d have each a salary of 450 dollars and two per cent. and the inspectors of the 4th and 5th have the same salary, and one per cent.
South-Carolina, three districts, the supervisor performs the duty of inspector in the first; salary 700 dollars and one per cent. The inspector of the 2d district, has a salary of 450 dollars and two per cent. The inspector of the 3d district, salary 450 dollars and one per cent.
Georgia, one district, supervisor performs the duty of inspector, salary 500 dollars and one per cent.
WEDNESDAY, November 2.
Mr. Giles called up a memorial from the officers of the Virginia line, and other papers relative thereto, which were communicated by the President, to the late Congress, but not acted upon. The papers being read, he laid on the table the following resolutions:
That so much of the message and communications from the President of the United States to both Houses, on the 17th of January last, as relates to the bounty lands granted to the officers and soldiers of the Virginia line on the continental establishment, be referred to a select committee, to examine the matter thereof and report the same with their opinion thereon to the House.
On motion of Mr. Dayton, ordered, that the secretary of the treasury should report to the House, whether any and what alterations in favor of the spirits which shall be distilled from articles of the growth or produce of the United States, or from foreign articles within the same, can, in his opinion, be made in the excise law, consistently with its main design, and with the maintenance of the public faith.
Mr. Giles laid on the table a motion, that the secretary of the department of war should be instructed to lay before the House an accurate statement of all
balances of pay which appear, by the books of his office, to be due to the officers and soldiers of the late army of the United States, and which either remain unclaimed, or have been claimed, but not paid; together with the reasons for withholding payment from those who may have respectively entered their claims therefor.
Mr. Vining laid on the table a motion for the appointment of a committee, to report a bill or bills, to establish an uniform system of bankruptcy throughout the United States.
Mr. Secretary Otis, by order of the senate, laid before the House a petition from the distillers of New-York, praying some alterations in the excise law.
THURSDAY, November 3.
Mr. Giles called up a resolution, which he had laid on the table yesterday, and which, with some alteration, was adopted by the House, as follows: "That so much of the message and communications from the President, to both Houses, on the 17th of January last, as relates to the bounty lands granted to the late officers and soldiers of the state of Virginia, together with all previous proceeding of Congress, and of the legislature of Virginia, and all other papers relative thereto, be referred to a select committee, with instructions to examine the matter thereof, and report their opinion thereon to the House."
A committee was accordingly appointed for the purpose.
On motion of Mr. Boudinot, resolved, that the report of the attorney general on the judiciary system, and certain proposed amendments to the constitution, laid on the table, during the last session of Congress, should be brought forward, and committed to a committee of the whole House.
Ordered that 100 copies of the same be printed for the use of the members.
During the course of the day, Mr. Ames suggested, that it would be a considerable saving of time, if, instead of presenting petitions singly to Mr. Speaker, gentlemen would lay them on the clerk's table, to be taken up and read, as it might best suit the convenience of the House. The mode was accordingly adopted, and a number of petitions handed in; of which several were read, and variously disposed of.
Adjourned.
MASSACHUSETTS.
BOSTON, October 22.
COUNTER-REVOLUTION.
Notwithstanding all the threats of M. de BOUVILLE—Notwithstanding the assembly of ci-devant Nobles under the Prince DE CONDE—Notwithstanding the interview of the EMPEROR, the KING of PRUSSIA, the ELECTOR of SAXONY, the PRINCE DE NASSAU—and other Personages, on the subject—Notwithstanding all the menaces which France experiences, it is generally conjectured that nothing serious will be ventured upon, to effect a Counter-Revolution in France , by European Monarchs. They know the Revolution fever is epidemical : They would not with their subjects to catch the infection —and they must think that, should they once enter France , their subjects cannot avoid taking it. This is the age of Revolution—
"There seems an ardent spirit, to my mind
A Revolution spirit, 'mongst mankind."
A spark will now set kingdoms in a blaze,
That would not fire a barn in former days:
So lately turn'd to touchwood is each State—
So whimsical indeed the ways of FATE!"
It has been asserted in several papers, That when Mr. Carnes (the American Consul at Nantz) left France, the King had not accepted the Constitution—thereby holding up an idea, unfavourable to its acceptance. In one paper, it has been asserted, that Mr. Carnes left France the 26th of September, and the Constitution was not then accepted by the King. These incautious representations give a bad impression on the minds of those Americans, who feel and sympathize with their patriotic brethren in France. And they are injudicious, because the truth of the case might easily be obtained. The fact is, Mr. Carnes sailed from the Loire, the 16th of September—he left Nantz about the 12th of that month—and it requires three or four days to obtain intelligence from Paris, so that all which can be said of the news relative to that momentous object is, That on the 8th or 10th of September, four days after the Constitution was presented to the King, according to the account by Mr. Carnes, the King had not declared his voice, either for or against the Constitution.
Yesterday sailed from this port, with a fair wind the copper-bottomed ship Margaret , James Magee, Esq. Commander, bound on a voyage to the North-West coast of America. It is the intention of this enterprising navigator, to proceed much farther north, than any of his predecessors have ever attempted. May his determination be crowned with that success, so hazardous an undertaking justly merits!
The ship, to the credit of the owners be it spoken, is amply furnished with every article necessary for so long and dangerous a voyage. May they, as a reward for their liberality, receive the richest treasures of, not only the north-western parts of America, but of the more fertile climate of China.
WORCESTER, October 27.
On Tuesday last an ox which weighed, alive, 2520 lbs. neat, was driven through this town on his way to Boston market. He was six years old, and was
raised by a Mr. Rich, of Brookfield, in this county.
CONNECTICUT.
NORWICH, October 13.
By a gentleman arrived in town last evening, who left Cape-Francois the 15th of September, we have the following intelligence: That on the 13th and 14th the Whites, Mulattoes, and free Negroes, were making preparations in the town, to attack the insurgents in the country; that on the 15th in the morning (being the time he sailed) an action commenced, and by the appearance of the smoke he supposed the conflict very warm—that they were endeavouring, by picketing, to secure the town, on every quarter—that there had been frequent skirmishes every day, and a considerable number of the insurgents killed—that a number of the white inhabitants had thrown up a breastwork, at a place about six leagues to the leeward of the Cape; the Negroes went and demanded all the coloured people that were in their possession, who had been fighting against them, and said, unless they complied with their demand, they would attack them in two hours. The Whites would not concede to their proposal; accordingly, at the expiration of the time, they began their attack. The slaughter was very great on the part of the Negroes, but the Whites finally overpowered them, and they were obliged to retreat.
PENNSYLVANIA.
PHILADELPHIA, October 29.
The Governor of this commonwealth has issued a proclamation, offering a reward of Five hundred Dollars for apprehending any of the persons concerned in lately setting fire to sundry stables in this city. In addition to the above, a few private citizens have offered a reward of Five hundred Dollars for the same purpose.
Extract of a letter from Cape-Francois, dated Oct. 4.
"According to the representation made to the General Assembly on September 29, no less than two hundred sugar plantations are destroyed on the north side of the island. The devastations of the Cateys in the northern and western parts still continue, and the number of revolted slaves are estimated at least one hundred thousand. The English at Jamaica have sent us some assistance of shipping and sailors, which seem not to have it in their power to do any thing effectual towards quelling the revolt. The Jamaica Blue Mountain negroes are looked for in a few days, some say five or six regiments, whose modes of fighting it is thought will answer better in the mountains than those practised by the whites. A British ship of war of fifty guns and a frigate are arrived at Port-au-Prince with arms and ammunition, but no troops, which alone in the present exigency could be of any service. We have every reason to suppose that this insurrection will have a conclusion similar to a former one in Jamaica; the negroes retiring into inaccessible mountains, where they will bid defiance, and in the end force us to declare them independent to prevent their invasions and robberies."
Oct. 30. Tuesday last, about one o'clock, the stable of Mr. Thomas Piper, in Spruce-street, caught fire, which consumed the roof and upper floor, and a quantity of hay, &c. and communicated to a brick stable adjoining, belonging to Nicholas Waln, Esq.; the roof of which, and about 7 tons of hay, were likewise consumed. Circumstances have created a suspicion that this disaster was occasioned by some evil-disposed person.
Wednesday afternoon, about 4 o'clock, the city was again alarmed by the cry of fire, which appeared in the neighbourhood of Dock-street, and destroyed a frame-house, containing a quantity of hay.
NOVEMBER 1.
Extract of a letter from a Gentleman at Cape Francois to a Merchant in this city, dated Oct. 4.
"We remain in a distressing situation relating to the Negroes and there is no hope that peace and safety will be restored, until we get more forces in this island."
By advice from Port-au-Prince, received this day, we are informed that a Negro camp, in the vicinity of that town, contains 20 000, all armed.
Four persons, suspected of being concerned in the late attempts to set fire to the city, were yesterday apprehended, and are now confined for trial. The suspicions against two of them are very strong. The information which will be had from them will, probably, bring to light the whole of the daring plot.
Nov. 2. A gentleman who arrived on Monday last from Cape-Francois, takes the liberty of publicly declaring the report of the defeat of the Whites, on the 22d of September last, with the loss of 600 men, void of truth, as he was an eye witness to the attack, in which only 11 Whites were killed and wounded, and 465 Negroes were put to the sword. One of the chiefs, named Gilles, was found, after the battle, wounded in several places; he was beheaded, then sent to town, paraded through the streets, and exposed on a gallows for four days.
On the 3d of October, an attack was made on the plantation of M. Gallifet, which was the grand camp of the Negroes, in that part of the province; they were surprised in the morning, before day, when there ensued a complete butchery—the Whites took all their cannon, (seven pieces of iron and one of brass) forced them off the plantation; the only loss the Whites received was one regular soldier wounded.
The latest accounts from St. Domingo are those brought by the Betsy, Crawford, and the Alexan-

ria, Town, both from Port-au-Prince, arrived here on Sunday last. The Negroes have risen in great bodies, near Port-au-Prince, and we are sorry to hear that they are destroying every thing before them. The chief hope of redress seems to be, that the want of provisions will oblige these insurgents to disperse; but on the other hand it is alleged, that they are sufficiently politic to preserve the canes, on the juice of which Negroes can subsist very well, as they break the cane at the joint, and drink the juice, like new milk; this makes them as fat and as sleek as the best provisions. A French ship of war, of 74 guns, lies in the harbour, without any troops on board; and the only assistance she can afford, is from the sailors, who seem very averse to this kind of service. A British 50 gun ship, and a frigate, arrived at Port-au-Prince, with arms and ammunition, but no troops, a few days before their accounts came away.
The number of Negroes in proportion to the Whites, are said to be about from 5 to 7, for one.
The people in the town are so much alarmed, for fear of the streams (that communicate the water from the mountains) being poisoned, that they get most of the water that they use from the shipping; and many of them go on board those vessels to sleep every night, and return to their houses in the morning: This is from an apprehension that a massacre might take place in the night.
These accounts also mention, that several plantations, in sight of Port-au-Prince, had been destroyed, and the buildings burnt. Frequent executions of the Negroes took place, and it was common to see them hanging on the trees. These punishments, however, do not seem to intimidate them as they are very desperate, and meet their fate with the greatest unconcern.—A very large body of Negroes were encamped near Port-au-Prince.
Such are the melancholy relations we hear of the situation of the finest settlements in the West-Indies. Perhaps some of these reports have arisen from fear, and, for the sake of humanity, it is to be hoped that they are not altogether so bad as represented.
The accounts from Cape Francois, by the Heity, Captain Clouser, say, that an engagement had taken place between the Whites and the Negroes; and that, after a very bloody contest the Negroes were driven out of their entrenchments.
The Negroes made a stand of about ten minutes, and then gave way; the number of killed on the one side was inconsiderable, but very great amongst the Negroes. Some of the Planters raised men, and fortified their plantations as well as they could: One in particular, assisted by about fifty armed men, defended his plantation effectually from an attack by 200 blacks, the greatest part of whom they beat off; but some of them retreated into a cane-patch, to which he set fire in all quarters, except in one passage, through which alone the enemy could pass, and as his guns were pointed to fire on them as they ran out, the consequence was that many remained in the flames, and chose rather to be burned than venture before the shot of the Planter and his party.
November 5. A gentleman just arrived from Gallipolis, the new French settlement on the Sciota, communicates the following information from that quarter. The original number of the settlers has greatly decreased: Owing to various disappointments some have returned. These had chiefly carried with them a numerous train of dependants; who soon found that in a new country, where industry is the best recommendation, they could live independent and as well as their masters, and consequently left them almost to a man to seek their fortune in that extensive country. Thus the colony suffered a considerable diminution, and this desertion, on the other hand was one of the causes that drove the wealthy part of the settlers to France again. The number now remaining, about 320, appear well pleased with their situation and determined to persevere. They have not in a single instance been molested by the Indians, who are often seen crossing from their side of the river to commit depredations on the American settlement immediately opposite to them.
The country there abounds with the greatest quantity and variety of game imaginable, and the river is well stored with fish of different kinds.—The soil is surprisingly fertile; less than half an acre has been known to produce 67 bushels of Indian corn.
These new settlers have cleared about 590 acres of land, and are every day making improvements. A few years promise to render it a settlement of the first importance. Its particular situation on the Ohio, greatly favors an increase, and we may in a short time expect to see it a second Kentucky.
The settlers now there are chiefly men of industry, and many persons of talents and education. Perhaps more insight into the Botany Mineralogy, and Antiquities of our country may be expected from their labors than from any source whatever. They have among them an excellent Botanist, an eminent Mineralogist and Natural Philosopher; who, however, have wisely resolved in the infancy of their colony to handle the ax and guide the plough, and to be at first rather attentive to improving the surface than searching into the bowels, and less anxious to discover new and curious plants than to introduce useful ones. Indeed their exertions in this way, have already produced gardens abounding with all kinds of vegetables in the highest perfection. From the month of May they already begin to furnish a plentiful supply for their tables. Steps are taking to introduce fruit-trees, to the growth of which the climate and soil is very favorable.
On the 4th October, M. de Blancherland received a letter from the Negro King [Francois] in which he requests some person might be sent to form a treaty with them, the basis of which should be their emancipation.
The same day an embargo was laid on all the Spanish vessels in the port, owing to strong suspicion of their furnishing the Negroes with ammunition.
P I T T S B U R G, Oct. 15.
By gentlemen from Gallipolis we were informed that four men, within a short distance of Marietta, and one at Bell Prae, 15 miles lower down the Ohio, have been killed by the Indians within these 12 days past. They also inform that the settlement at Gallipolis, is in a very thriving way, and that they have not been molested by the savages.
M A R Y L A N D.
B A L T I M O R E, November 3.
Late accounts from Port-au-Prince mention, the price of flour being limited to 8 dollars. Provisions plenty.
Accounts from the Cape, seem to exhibit a prospect of tranquility.
Mr. John Robertson, a Native of the City of Glasgow, who had been long in a State of abject Slavery, at Algiers, was lately redeemed by the benevolent Contributions of his Fellow-Citizens and Countrymen, which were successfully applied by Charles Logie, Esq; his Britannic Majesty's Consul at Algiers, who after having paid the Ransom Money, amounting to £ 317 11s. Sterling, presented the Balance, about Twenty Guineas, to Mr. Robertson, to enable him to return to his native Land.—By a Letter of Mr. Robertson's, to his Brother, since his Redemption, he appears to be very gratefully impressed towards his Friends and generous Benefactors, for "extricating him from a long and painful State of Adversity—a Situation which," he observes, "is far easier to imagine than for" him "to describe!"
On the 14th of last March, 14 Americans remained Prisoners at Algiers—for whose Ransom, 34,792 Mexican Dollars are required.
A London News-Paper mentions, that Mr. Burke will be speedily created Lord Beaconsfield, (a British Peer) his Sovereign being solicitous to distinguish and reward his eminent Abilities and Integrity, without depriving his Country of his Services.
The Sloop Polly, belonging to Messrs. BROWN and FRANCIS, of Providence, which was piratically carried off from St. Eustatius, on the 15th of September, by a certain WILLIAM ROUND, and a young Man named SAMUEL MAXWELL, was cast away, early in October, between Ocracoke and Beaufort, in North-Carolina. The Vessel was stranded; but the Cargo, (consisting of 23 Hogheads of Sugar, 20 Casks of Gin, a Chest of Tea, with 1200 Dollars) was secured by the Activity and Industry of the Inhabitants of the Vicinity. The Officers of the Customs at Beaufort, took charge of this Property, for the Benefit of the Owners.—ROUND attempted to escape, but was pursued and apprehended by a Revenue-Officer of Beaufort District, and, after an Examination by Judge Sitgreaves, of Newbern, was committed to Gaol there.—MAXWELL was also secured in like Manner.
V I R G I N I A.
P E T E R S B U R G, October 20.
On Friday last was brought to this town, from Richmond, the noted Benjamin Woodward.—He was apprehended in the state of Georgia, some time last month, and was brought to Richmond, by water, from Charleston. He is now in safe custody, and is to take his trial, at an examining-Court tomorrow. At Augusta, in Georgia, he applied to a boy, who lived in a Printing-Office in that town, for a sufficient number of types to counterfeit a particular kind of public securities of that state, for which he offered him five hundred dollars. The boy agreed to furnish him with the types, and a place near the town was agreed upon, where he was to meet Woodward with the types, and receive the money. The boy, however, previous to the intended meeting, informed the proprietor of the Office of the circumstance—accordingly the necessary steps were taken to apprehend Woodward, who was detected in endeavouring to obtain the materials to prosecute his old abominable acts of villany. He there passed by the name of Peter Jones.
On Wednesday, the 12th instant, David Rathell was executed at Easton, in Talbot County, pursuant to his sentence, for the murder of his wife. He persisted, to the last moment of his existence, in declaring his innocence of the crime for which he was condemned to die.
S H E P H E R D ' S - T O W N, November 14.
On Sunday night the 6th instant, a barn belonging to Mr. John Frayat, about two miles from Martinsburg, took fire and was entirely consumed, together with upwards twelve hundred bushels of wheat, a quantity of hay, &c. It is suspected the barn was purposely set on fire.
The Honorable Moses ROBINSON and STEPHEN BRADLEY, Esquires, are chosen to represent the State of Vermont, in the Senate of the United States.
Extract of a letter from George Town, dated the 2 nd inst.
"The public sale of lots in the Federal City, ended on Wednesday evening; but the private sales still continue, and probably will all the week. In the whole, there have been, at least, twelve hundred lots sold.—The average of the public sales, is something upwards of £. 100, for a lot of 40 feet front and 130 or 140 deep.—The sales made by individuals, I suspect were at a lower rate.—Indeed they have sold, in many parts of the City, and the public sales were confined to that part which lies between the President's square and George-Town, which, it is imagined, will be first improved, being so convenient to the present seat of trade.—Tell your friend——, that it is not yet too late to make good speculations; but that, if he means to do anything to the purpose, he must not delay it too long."
From a Paris paper of September 5.
PRESENTATION of the CONSTITUTION to the KING, for his ACCEPTANCE.
The Grand Constitutional Chart is at length finished, and was on Saturday last presented to the King; who received it with a countenance in which much outward satisfaction was depicted.
The members met in the hall of the Assembly at six o'clock in the evening, but it was half past eight before every thing was ready.
M. Vernier, the President, then intimated, that he had waited on the King, and announced their intentions, and that his Majesty was ready to receive them.
On this the deputation moved on towards the palace of the Thuilleries, between a double row of national guards, flambeaus proceeded, following, and accompanying them, and martial music striking up, and continuing during the procession.
[Here follows a list of the members empowered by the Assembly, to present the New Constitution to Louis XVI.]
Having arrived at the palace, the deputation were immediately ushered into the Grand Council Chamber, and introduced to the King, who was seated on a Throne, surrounded by his Ministers, and a great number of other persons of distinction.
M. Thouret then advanced, and spoke as follows: "The Representatives of the Nation now present to your Majesty the Constitutional Act , which consecrates the imprescriptible rights of the French Nation; which gives to the Throne its true dignity, and which organizes the government of the Empire."
The King instantly replied:
"I now receive the Constitution presented to me by the National Assembly—I shall inform them of my resolution after the shortest possible delay which the examination of such an important object demands."
"I AM RESOLVED TO REMAIN IN PARIS; I shall give the necessary orders to the Commandant General of the National Parisian Troops respecting my guards."
The deputation having received this answer, and M. Thouret having asked and obtained a copy of it in writing, for the satisfaction of the Assembly, they instantly returned with the same ceremony that they had set out.
Yesterday the Thuilleries were opened, all the centinels, posted to prevent the entrance of strangers, being removed.
A prodigious crowd of citizens having gone to the Chapel during the morning service, on the entrance of the King and Queen to hear mass, a number of voices exclaimed, Vive la Nation! Vive la Constitution!
His Majesty, who was taken unawares, being unable to hide his emotion at this circumstance, burst into tears. On this the audience cried out— Vive la Roi! Vive la Liberte! One person in particular, pronounced, with a loud and distinct voice— Vive la premier Roi constitutionnel des Francois!
At a Court of Quarter Sessions, held for Berkeley County, on the third Tuesday in August, 1791.
Leonard Davis, - - - Compt. } William Worthington and Nancy } In Chancery, his wife, and Sarah Wilson, Defts. }
THE Defendants not having entered their appearance agreeable to an Act of Assembly, and according to the rules of this Court, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the Court that they are no inhabitants of this County, on the motion of the Complainant, by his Council, Ordered , That the said Defendants do appear here on the third Tuesday in November next, to answer the bill of the Complainant, and that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in the Virginia Gazette for two months successively, and published at the Church in the Parish of Norborne, in the County aforesaid, on some Sunday after divine service, and also at the Court-House door of the said County.
A copy. Teste; MOSES HUNTER, C.B.C.
THE Subscriber informs the People of Shepherd's-Town and vicinity, that he purposes to recommence his school of Church Music, in the Brick Meeting-House, on Friday next, at 2 o'clock. JOHN WILKINSON.
Nov. 12, 1791.

SEAT OF THE MUSES.
The uncertain Duration of Human Life.
THRO' life's fantastic, gloomy maze, What dangers threaten mortal man! What pains attend him all his days And wreck, with woe, his doubtful span!
Thus, while the fleeting moments glide, A thousand anxious cares advance; Down cruel fate's extensive ride, How swift does his weak vessel dance!
Misfortunes, like a rushing wave, Now fly; and then another comes! Still pressing forward, found to crave Admittance, to her injur'd sons.
Thus, 'midst the bloom of promis'd years, When pleasure holds her golden reign, How oft the tyrant Death appears, To dath the sprightly joy with pain!
So, when we've nurs'd with constant care, The tender herbs and fragrant flow'rs, The northern wind and nipping air Their blooming sweets, at once, devours.
What must a tender Mother feel, When of her children's death she hears, How must her throbbing bosom swell? Dissolv'd with sighs, her eyes with tears?
But, since to die is nature's debt, Decreed by Heav'n's all pow'rful King, The wise, the poor, the great, Alike, must feel the fatal sting.
It matters not which way we fall, So virtue crowns our daily race; 'Tis joy to hear the sacred call Of God, and die with truth and grace.
Thrice happy each lamented son, Safe landed on some happier shore! Whose short tim'd glass so soon is run; And death shall never pain him more.
EPIGRAM—ON A DEAD WIFE.
WHEN fate decreed his wife should die, Ned shed no tear, he breath'd no sigh, We bless, said he, the will of Heaven, That takes away what it hath given.
ANECDOOTE.
Curious Notice—A Dublin paper contains— "This is to acquaint the public, that Ann Molloy, with the assistance of her journeymen, continues to make—fret for children's stockings."
To be SOLD, or LET, and entered upon immediately, A Merchant-Mill,
Known by the name of Hite & Gibbs's Mill , situate eight miles from Winchester, near the road leading to Shep- herd's Town . For terms, apply to Mr. James Gibbs at the Clerk's office, Winchester , to Mrs. Gibbs , on the premises, or to
ALEXANDER WHITE.
Woodville October 1, 1791.
On Monday the 19th of December next, Will be sold at PUBLIC AUCTION, At the Plantation of JOSEPH DAVIS, near Sharpsburg, Washington County Maryland, a quantity of good
Indian Corn, Wheat,
Rye, Tobacco in the house, Hay, Straw, Corn Fod- der, some live Stock, Plantation Utensils, House- hold and Kitchen Furniture, and a variety of other articles too tedious to mention.
The sale will begin at ten o'clock—the terms of which will be made known on the day of sale.
JOSEPH DAVIS.
October 11, 1791.
TO BE RENTED,
A VERY GOOD
H O U S E,
With a good Celler under it, fit for a Store, it being the best place for that business to be found in the neighbourhood. It is ten miles from Winchester, on the great road leading from that place to Alex- andria. Any person renting said House, may be furnished with other conveniences, such as boarding for a clerk, a lumber house, &c.
THOMAS GRAHAM.
Just published at BALTIMORE, By W. GODDARD & J. ANGELL, And to be SOLD by WHOLESALE and RETAIL, With large allowance to those who purchase quantities, THE PENNSYLVANIA, DELAWARE, MARYLAND, AND VIRGINIA
ALMANACK,
FOR THE YEAR 1792:
A COMPLETE and ACCURATE EPHE- MERIS, calculated by the ingenious Mr. BEN- JAMIN BANNEKER, a free black Man, (a Na- tive of this Country, born of African Parents) whose Calculations now offered the Public, have met the Approbation of several of the most dis- tinguished Astronomers in America.
[The Contents will be speedily published.]
The above Work contains interesting Parti- culars of the virtuous Life and laudable Pursuits of BENJAMIN, and his Progress to ASTRONOMIC FAME.
**'Orders from our country and distant customers,' will be duly attended to.
Baltimore, Sept. 30, 1791.
Robinson, Sanderson and Co.
HAVE JUST RECEIVED PER THE NANCY, FROM WHITEHAVEN,
A further supply of
FALL GOODS,
Which, with their former importation by the LANCASTER, makes their assortment very complete. Alexandria, September 28, 1791.
WANTED, 2 or 3 Apprentices
To the Tanning and Currying business. Application to be made at the Printing-Office.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of Mr. Andrew Colden II, jun. deceased, are requested to make payment; and those who have any de- mands against the same, are likewise requested to bring them in, as an immediate settlement of the a- bove estate is intended.
CHARLES McDONALD, Executor.
October 15, 1791.
TO BE SOLD,
Two Water LOTS,
Situated in James Town, alias Buckles-Town, between 7 and 8 miles from Martinsburg; they contain about two acres, whereon is a new square Log House, nearly finished, with a small Tan-Yard—in this neighbourhood hides are plenty, and bark very con- venient. Any person wishing to purchase, may know the terms by applying to the Printer in Shep- herd's Town , or to the subscriber on the premises.
PHILIP KING.
October 18, 1791.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, some time the middle of last month, a red COW, con- siderably old, has her left ear clip'd, and was heavy with calf when she went away. Any person who will give me information where the said Cow is, so that I get her again, shall have TEN SHILLINGS re- ward, or ELEVEN SHILLINGS and THREE PENCE for the Cow and Calf.
GEORGE FRANK.
Martinsburg, October 18, 1791.
15 Dollars Reward.
RAN AWAY from the subscriber on the night of the 16th inst. an indentured Apprentice Boy by the name of THOMAS JACKSON, nineteen years of age, 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, dark complexion, black hair, has a down look, had on when he went away, a light coloured home-made coat and waist- coat, with metal buttons, had a pair of old fustian breeches, striped overalls, a pair of old shoes, with a half worn hat;—he took with him two pair of tow trowsers, two home-made linen shirts, and a pair of grey worsted stockings. Whoever appre- hends said Boy, and will confine him in any goal, so that I get him again, or return him to me, living within three miles of Martinsburg, Berkeley County Virginia, shall have the above reward, and necessary charges.
October 18, 1791.
ROBERT CREIGHTON.
A Mill for sale.
BY Virtue of a Decree of the Court of BERKELEY County, and State of VIRGINIA, will be exposed to sale by PUBLIC VENDUE, upon the first day of February next, if fair, if not the next fair day, a MERCHANT-MILL, with the Lot, Prem- ises, and Buildings thereunto belonging, late the property of HENRY COOKUS, deceased, and now in the possession of CHRISTIAN ORENDORFF.
Also, the Stone Dwelling-House, and Ground Rents of the said estate, late of the said COOKUS, deceased, all situate in Shepherd's Town , in the County and State aforesaid.
The terms of sale will be, one third part of the purchase money to be paid in twelve months from the day of sale, one other third part within two years after the day of sale, and the remaining third part within three years after the day of sale.
By order of the Court.
JOHN KEARSLEY, } Trustees. HENRY BEDINGER. }
BERKELEY COUNTY, July 25, 1791.
6m.
The Subscriber, having determined to relinquish the business of keeping a PUBLIC House, returns his most sincere thanks to his friends who have favoured him with their custom in that line. —In order to accommodate those who with still to frequent his house, he now informs them, that he has opened for their reception,
A PRIVATE BOARDING HOUSE, Where such as are desirous to be entertained, retired from the noise and bustle which they are unavoida- bly exposed to in a Tavern may be assured of find- ing every preparation for their ease, comfort and enjoyment.
ALEXANDER ROGERS.
Martinsburg October 22, 1791.
The Subscriber has received,
A fresh supply of
FALL GOODS,
To his former assortment, which he is determined to sell low, as he intends removing from this place; —Therefore all those indebted to him are requested to make payment.
ROGER COLTART.
Shepherd's-Town, October 9, 1791.
Wanted immediately,
BY the Subscriber, living near Opekeon-Creek, between Light's mill and the Swan-Ponds, two good Journeymen SHOE MAKERS, who shall have constant employ and good wages, from
AARON FARIS.
Berkeley-County, October 24, 1791.
Wants employ, in a Merchant-Mill,
A Young Man who has been regularly bred to the Milling-Business, and who would wish to engage with some person who carries on the busi- ness extensively, and will give suitable wages as a compensation for which, he will stand the inspec- tion of the flour which may pass through his hands. Satisfactory recommendation will be given, if re- quired.
Inquire of the Printer.
Any person having a new-milch COW to dispose of, may hear of a purchaser by ap- plying at the Printing-Office.
A few Tickets in Mr. T WHITE'S Lottery, are for sale at the Printing-Office.
Tickets in the New-Church Lotte- ry, which is shortly to be drawn, may be had at the Printing Office.
TO BE SOLD, A Likely Negrowench,
About 28 years old, with her male child in its 4th year, and the wench now pregnant. She has been brought up chiefly to house work, can spin well on either wheel, and is a good hand at plantation work. For further particulars, inquire of the Printer.
FOR SALE,
By the Printer hereof,
Blank Deeds of Bargain and Sale, Lawyers Declarations of every Kind, Common Bonds,