The Patowmac guardian, and Berkeley advertiser (Shepherdstown, Va. [W. Va.]), 1791-05-24 00:00:00

The POTOMAC GUARDIAN, and BERKELEY ADVERTISER.
PRICE TWO DOLLARS PER ANN.]
T U E S D A Y, MAY 24, 1791.
[NUMBER 28 OF VOL. I.]
WHERE LIBERTY DWELLS, THERE IS MY COUNTRY.
Franklin.
From the PITTSBURGH GAZETTE.
To the Inhabitants of W estmoreland County.
GENTLEMEN,
I would not have presumed to claim your attention at this time, were it not that I am informed that major Guthrie and the officers of the detachment which he commanded, are exposed to censure, on account of preventing the destruction of some Indians who were employed in navigating a boat and four canoes up the Alleghany river on Friday last; and as I was present on the spot, and had such a hand in the affair, that if I had not been there, it would have been impossible for the officers to have prevented the destruction of the Indians; I should think myself a paltoon if I should screen myself under a clerical coat from public vengeance, when the conduct of these officers, to which I was accessory, is likely to meet with your disapprobation; therefore, I boldly give my name to the public, and along with it a true state of the above transaction.
On Thursday last I received information, that in consequence of the recent murders committed by the savages on our frontiers, a detachment of Col. John Clark's battalion was ordered to march, under the command of Major Guthrie, to the conjunction of the Kiskamenitas and Alleghany rivers, in order to build a block house and protect the frontiers. I approved of the plan, and being persuaded that the safety of the country, under God, depended on a vigorous defence of the frontiers, and expecting that I had some influence on the inhabitants, a great part of whom belonged to my congregations, I armed immediately, and joined the detachment. On our march we met the inhabitants in great numbers flying with the utmost precipitancy, false alarms increased their fears, and their countenances were in the indicative mood. On Friday about 12 o'clock A. M. we arrived at the Alleghany river, two miles below our destination; in less than an hour after our arrival, we received intelligence that six Indian canoes, containing thirty warriors, were making towards our shore, half a mile below us. Our detachment, which did not exceed forty men prepared for an attack: the murder so recently and treacherously committed, caused old wounds to bleed a fresh, and gave a resuscitation to latent rage, so that officers and men seemed resolute and fearless; but to our surprise, in a few minutes we beheld a boat and four canoes coming up the opposite shore, having on board an American flag, six white men and thirteen Indians, the greatest part of whom were squaws and children.
On the appearance of the Indians we could scarce restrain the men, and I confess, could we have come at them in a constituency with honor, manhood, and our allegiance to the government, I should have been the first to have discharged my piece at them; but in a short time indignation gave way to reason, and we felt ourselves men. We then prevailed on the detachment to sit down and conceal themselves, and the commanding officer and myself was appointed to hail the boats. We then commanded them to send a man to us, in order to be examined. The man being interrogated, informed us he was a soldier belonging to the garrison at French Creek; that the boat contained provisions and stores for said garrison, who were starving for want, and that he could not take up the boats without the Indians on board, who, together with all the Six Nations, except the few renegades who committed the murder, were peaceable to the last degree; that Corn-Planter had sent out a party to apprehend the murderers, and bring them to justice; and that those Indians on board, one of whom was a chief, had searched the woods in the vicinity where the murder was committed, had found a boy who was thought to have been killed, and restored him to the white people. Moreover, that Capt. Jeffers who commanded the garrison at French Creek, to whom the boat belonged, had left them at the Great Island, to go up by land in company with Corn-Planter, Hall-Town, major McCully, and others. Altho' some of this man's relation might be false, yet knowing some of it to be true, we could not think ourselves justifiable in seizing the boats, or killing the Indians: therefore we ordered the man to proceed on his voyage, for he had nothing to fear. But to our surprise, the man had scarcely left the shore, when a few temerarious squalid wretches, ordered him to return on pain of death, dragged him on shore and gave him abusive language, at the same time commanding the boats to be brought to them immediately, threatening to shoot at white and black promiscuously. On perceiving this, the officers and myself, ordered the boats to keep the other shore, and proceed on their way, having with difficulty released the man, and I being obliged to tell the mutineers that I would empty my gun in the first man that dared to molest him. During the time that these things were transacting, and while the disobedient fellows were imprecating a thousand curses on the heads of the commander and all the officers, the
Indians vociferated murder! murder! deserted the boats, and ran to the top of the river hill; where I left them at four o'clock in the evening, having first seen the mutineers disperse and major Guthrie and his detachment on their march to the mouth of the Kiskamenitas, in order to build a block house, and maintain that post until further orders.
Gentlemen, I have given you a true statement of facts, from which you may form what judgment you please. Our conduct now fully stated, fears not investigation, if we have done wrong in permitting the Indians to escape, a mistaken love to honor, to humanity, and our country, has led us astray.
Gentlemen,
I am, with every token of respect,
Your humble servant,
SAMUEL PORTER.
Westmoreland County, March 29, 1791.
N E W - Y O R K, April 28.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Charleston, S.C. to his friend in this city, containing several curious particulars relative to the person lately executed there, styling himself Major Washington.
In consequence with my promise I now give you some further particulars relative to Major Washington. Little more than two years had elapsed from his coming into this state from Georgia till the time of his execution. He came well recommended, but there has been reason to suspect some of the best of his letters were forged. He soon became connected with persons of note in this state, and joined with them in an association called the Yazoo company, for the purchase of a vast territory of vacant, fertile land in the western parts of Georgia; in this company are many respectable characters, who have all been cruelly deceived in their confidence in this man. Others, more cautious perceiving the speculative and fraudulent bent of his genius, avoided him from the beginning, believing, from some circumstances, that he was not a man of either honour or honesty. To do him justice, it must be owned he was a person of the most consummate address, the most elegant deportment, possessed an exquisite talent of pleasing, was a most alluring companion, and there were even some who asserted that generosity was no inconsiderable trait in his character. In short, so many and various were his external excellencies, that it was really dangerous to come within the sphere of his temptation. Besides the honorable persons with whom he had been connected, he had some low companions (such as are here styled common swindlers of the city) particularly a man by the name of Sampson, who had acted as his private clerk, or secretary. Many purchasers of indents, both of this place, New-York, and of other parts of the continent, who were in this city speculating, gave the most generous prices for the indents of this state. The current price was then about 10s. in the pound. One of the purchasers had a number of indents given for the small sums of 13, 14, 17, 18 or 20l. or thereabouts. Upon being asked whether he would sell his indents, he replied, at a proper price he would. The man then offered him 13s. in the pound, which he readily accepted as gaining near 40 per cent. by the sale. Upon being at a broker's who sold indents, there was a large one offered for sale, which was shewn to the man who had lately sold the indents of the above denominations at the price of 13s. aforesaid. He viewed it, and discovered a private mark which he had made on it when in his possession. He immediately enquired of the broker in what manner he became possessed of the indent; and upon further investigation it was proved that it was lodged by Major Washington for sale. Upon this, information was given to one of the magistrates of the city, and to the Attorney-general, when he was taken up and confined in gaol. The indent mentioned was changed from 17l. some odd shillings, to the large sum of 700l. by some chemical process of solution, which had entirely obliterated the writing in the filling up of the sum, while the other was inserted in its place. This discovery gave general alarm to the citizens, but more particularly to the dealers in public paper. These convened themselves immediately, in order to enter into some regulations concerning the discovery of the perpetrators of this vile forgery.
In the mean time Washington was held to bail in the sum of two thousand pounds sterling, and upon a further scrutiny and close inspection by the indent purchasers, they discovered several more indents which were counterfeit. Upon this second information Mr. Washington was taken up again and put into close confinement. More and more of this dirty business coming to light daily, Washington's friends, who were all positive as to his honour and innocence, began to desert him, and to coincide with the public opinion. And even the Yazoo company at last discovered that he had fraudulently obtained the key of their strong box, and had taken
out of it public securities to a large amount, and deposited counterfeit indents in their stead. This latter discovery caused a total dereliction of the few friends of character that had still adhered to him, and so alarmed his accomplices, that they made off, but by the exertions of our magistrates and citizens, and by a providential accident [the fall of Sampson from a horse, which broke his collar bone, and disabled him, from proceeding on his journey for a day or two] two of them were taken in bed. One of these two escaped, the other (Sampson) was brought safe to town, and fearing that he should lose his life, turned evidence against Washington, and confessed the whole matter. The prospect of Washington's execution, from the confession of Sampson, began to render the people cheerful, and in some degree alleviated the distresses of the sufferers. The Col- -pit stood his trial on the 20th February in the court of General Sessions. There was the greatest concourse of people at his trial ever known in this State, as being of the first importance. It continued from 10 in the morning till 10 at night, when the Jury brought him in guilty. Motions in arrest of judgment were made, and a day appointed for the solemn argument of the law on several points, wherein great ingenuity was manifested, but at length the verdict of the Jury was confirmed, and the unfortunate prisoner was ordered for execution on the 23d of March. The number of people assembled on this occasion was immense. You would have been surprised to see a man like him, upon the verge of eternity, assuming the same bold and thoughtless air that had been manifested through his whole trial and confinement. After going through the ceremonies of the Catholic faith, adapted to men in his situation, he, with amazing intrepidity and coolness, and with the least possible concern, called for water and drank it off several times, as if upon an ordinary occasion. Upon being asked by the Sheriff, if he was ready for execution? he replied, yes; but requested that he might first be allowed to address the spectators. "My fellow citizens (said he) I am suffering innocently, as Christ did before me, through a false persecution of my enemies; and as he died innocently and forgave his enemies, to do I forgive mine. I have prayed for their forgiveness."
He then begged them not to impute his present thin and meagre appearance to a fear of death (for he looked very pale and emaciated) but to a heavy sickness he had experienced for two days. He then pulled the cap over his face himself, and slept upon the death fall, and waving his hand two or three times to the people, said "Good day, farewell, Gentlemen!—and ordered the Sheriff to let him die. But upon one of the guards appearing very much concerned at his death, and not knocking away the timbers that supported the death-fall, he said, "do not be uneasy, my friend, I do not fear it."—In a minute he fell from the height of four or five feet, and TO ALL APPEARANCE died in a very quiet and easy manner; and thus closed the scene of life with this genteel and notorious villain whose death I doubt not will be very essential to the interests of these United States. Providence seems to have intended the gallows for his mode of dying; for several days previous to his death he had taken laudanum (which he had carried with him to gaol upon his first imprisonment) in such quantities, as, in the opinion of several skillful Physicians, would have killed many and almost every man. He did likewise, on the morning of his execution, attempt to shoot himself, but I am told the ball only made a slight contusion on his side."
From the Bombay Gazette, Oct. 6.
The dearness and scarcity of rice is certainly a severe calamity, not only on the poor of this settlement, but also on the inhabitants of several of the adjacent districts.
The dearth, we are sorry to hear, has been peculiarly distressing this year, as its influence has even reached many substitutes to rice, which former scarce seasons had supplied, namely, gram, mut, bazee, jinglee-oil, &c. Could future hope alleviate present evil, or approaching relief remove actual distress—next to the humane and watchful eye of government, and individual exertions of charity, we still have to hold out, to the suffering part of our fellow-creatures, the consolation of a promising first harvest nearly at hand; as the early farmers will be able to reap between the middle and latter part of this month. Ships also are daily expected with rice from Bengal; and late accounts from Arabia report, that grain was so cheap there as to encourage speculation on that article; and one or two ships have sailed from hence, for that purpose.
CHARLESTON, May 9.
Yesterday the President of the United States arrived in this city, accompanied by his Secretary, Major Jackson. At George-Town he was met by Major-General Moultrie and Col. Washington, and at Haddrell's Point by Brigadier-General Pinckney, Major Edward Rutledge, and the Recorder of this city; from whence he was rowed across the river,

in an elegant barge, by thirteen Masters of American vessels, viz. Captains Cochran, Croft, Moore, Milligan, Kean, Kea, Laurence, Drinder, Swain, Conyers, Dickinson, Crowley, and Connolly, who were uniformly and neatly dressed in light-blue silk jackets, and round black hats decorated with blue ribbons, on which were impressed the arms of this state. During the passage vocal and instrumental music were performed on the water by the Amateur Society, assisted by a voluntary association of singers; and upwards of forty boats attended, with anxious spectators, which formed a most beautiful appearance.
Stairs were erected at Prioleau's wharf, where the President was received and congratulated by the Governor and Lieutenant-Governor of this state, the Intendant and Wardens of this city, and an uncommonly large concourse of citizens, who testified their happiness on the arrival of our Chief Magistrate, by reiterated shouts of joy and satisfaction—the Charleston battalion of artillery saluted him with discharges from their field-pieces, the bells of St. Michael's church were rung, and the shipping in the harbour displayed their colours during the day.
He was conducted to the Exchange, preceded by the officers of the corporation, and followed by a procession, consisting of the militia officers, members of the Cincinnati, and other citizens, where he received the honours of the procession, to whom he politely and gracefully bowed as they passed in review before him. The order was then reversed, and the President escorted to the house, in Church-street, prepared for his accommodation.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, March 6.
Never has the town of Port-au-Prince experienced a brighter or happier day, a re-union, the most sincere, of all the inhabitants. It was the citizens of the districts who proposed this so much desired reconciliation. There is now but one existing opinion, that of living in peace, of assisting each other, and contributing to the general felicity.
It is to the establishment of the municipality we owe this event, almost despaired of.
This day, preceded by a morning tho' beautifully serene, forced a tear from those whom M. Mauduit has oppressed: Yesterday morning the soldiers accused him of having deceived them—they made him account for his conduct—they doubtless were convinced of his being culpable. In the afternoon they led him to the committee, for the purpose of obliging him to make reparation for the insults done to the town colours, in consequence of his taking them into his possession the 29th and 30th July—he refused—In vain did the citizens implore his pardon, exposing themselves to obtain it—the tumult was extreme—In vain did M. Boudon on his knees beg at least his life—in vain did a thousand voices, united to every effort attempt to avert his cruel fate:—M. Beaufoleil who was wounded on the night of the 29th July, exerted all his powers to save him—several broke of the sabre exercised by his own soldiers, put a period to his day; his head was severed from his body, and carried on the point of a bayonet, and placed on the gallows—His body was interred this day. All the moveables of his house were broke in pieces and destroyed.
He was the victim of an instant and terrible fermentation, that nothing could calm. We were not eye-witnesses of this scene—a scene that will serve as an example to all those who wish to stop the rapid progress of the revolution. We saw the colours of Port-au-Prince re-conducted with military honor to the place from whence they were taken; but we saw the joy brighten in the countenances of all the inhabitants re-united, who together with our three regiments, were present at te deum in the evening.
NEWBURY-PORT, April 20.
From one Ewe, in the town of Newbury, in the course of the past year, has proceeded sixteen lambs. In the first place she had three lambs, each of which have now three, and the old one has four this spring.
A correspondent observes, that this is an increase almost equal to that of Revenue-Officers, under Congress, within the same space of time.
BOSTON, April 21.
Extract of a letter from Marietta, March 1, 1797.
"You have heard of the attacks of the Indians this way.—Our whole business since has been to put this settlement in a posture of defence. The stockade is about three-quarters of a mile from the Point, and is strong. We have enclosed on the Point about 12 acres square, which is picketed in. We have three block-houses in the square—one a large and handsome building, in the angle of the Point—with a small one on each bank of the Ohio and Muskingum. When our works are all completed (if we are not surprised) I think 500 Indians would stand no chance for success with us. The works at Belle-Prairie and Wolf-Creek are on a smaller scale, but better than ours. We are in hourly expectation of hearing something from one of those settlements; yet we hope the strength of their works will prevent an attack—for the men in them will be equal to 1000 Indians without. Surprise is all we have to fear. It is expected there will be an early campaign, which God grant may be more successful than the last."—Amen.
SPRINGFIELD, April 27.
"We are happy to inform the public of the arrival of Capt. John Hills in this place—who is employed by the Secretary at War, to make such observations as may lead to the accomplishment of the
object mentioned in the following certificate:— THIS is to certify that the bearer, Captain John Hills, has been employed by me for the purpose of exploring the country from Springfield to Charles' river, and making accurate surveys thereof, with a view to ascertain whether an inland navigation would be practicable.
As this object is of the highest public utility, all good people are requested to give him such information and advice, as the nature of the cause may require.
GIVEN at Philadelphia, this ninth day of April one thousand seven hundred and ninety-one.
H. KNOX.
To whom it may concern.
NEW-HAVEN, May 4.
Last Saturday the Circuit Court of the United States finished the business before them in this place, having sat six days.
During the session many important questions were agitated and decided. Among others, came on the great and much litigated question, Whether obligations in favour of real British subjects, or those who had joined the armies of the King of Great-Britain, during the war, should draw interest during the time the creditors were inaccessible by reason of the war. In this case the court adjudged that the statute law of Connecticut, enabling the state courts to deduct interest in such cases, was an infringement of the treaty of the peace, and that upon common law principles, interest was recoverable. The learned and ingenious arguments from the bench, on this question, were highly interesting, and gave general satisfaction.
Recent accounts are, that since the arrival of the Fleet and Army, from France, public tranquility is nearly restored in the French Islands.
The following TOASTS were given at the election of officers for an Artillery company, in Providence.
1. Our country.— 2. May its electors feel no influence but the good of the whole.— 3. The Man of our choice— 4. May he stand square to the front— 5. May his actions be perpendicular— 6. May his ideas be properly dressed— 7. May his conduct be uniform— 8. May the party politician fall in his rear— 9. May his honor be unimpeached— 10. May his arguments be rammed home— 11. May he never advance towards popularity with an oblique step— 12. May his virtue be such that he shall pass at the grand inspection. 13. May the Statesman not thus qualified, face to the right about.
NEW-BRUNSWICK, May 10.
Last Saturday, agreeable to sentence, was executed at Newark, William Jones, for the murder of Samuel Shotwell—We are informed he made a confession of the fact before he was executed.
NEW-YORK, May 3.
On Saturday was apprehended and committed to the gaol of this city, a man who calls himself Major Nathan Goodman, of North-Carolina, charged with fraudulently selling counterfeit and altered certificates of North-Carolina. On his examination before the Mayor, it appeared that his real name was Nathan Lasciter; and about £17,000 of North-Carolina paper, was found in possession of himself and an accomplice named Elton—the whole of which appears to be altered and counterfeit.—The paper is of what is called Halifax and Warrington. Elton was also committed. They came last from Boston, by the way of Rhode Island.
The English ministerial politicians, notwithstanding all they see and hear, still in imitation of their Prime Leader, Mr. Burke, declare, "that the utopian constitution which 1200 despot's have attempted to establish in France, totters on its feeble basis, and will be blown away by the breath of civil discord." Who they intend to deceive by this, we know not—it may be themselves—for the world is too enlightened to be thus imposed on.
PITTSBURG, April 23.
By Mr. Stewart Wilkins, who arrived here the 20th instant, up the Ohio, from the Kanawha, we have intelligence that, just before his leaving that place, a man had come in, almost dead with fatigue and hunger, who was 1 of 40 militia that were coming up the river in a boat, loaded with provisions for the French settlement at Gallipolis; and that 20 of these, whose turn it was to walk on shore and hunt, were fired upon by a party of about 30 Indians concealed in a thick bushy place, and most probably all cut off but himself. The boat, probably, with the rest on board, had returned down the river. This happened on the 27th of March, nearly opposite the mouth of the Sciota, on the Virginia side of the river.
By an express which arrived from Venango, last week, we are given to understand, that the settlers at Cosewago, were leaving it, and coming down to the garrison at Fort-Franklin; that from every appearance a stroke was intended at that settlement as several parties of unfriendly Indians had been discovered by scouts that were out: That the Cornplanter and Halftown had upwards of 100 warriors in and about the garrison, and have runners continually out to bring intelligence, they being determined to protect the garrison, at all events, from any insult.
Extract of a letter from Fort-Pitt, dated April 2.
"The Indians in this quarter have been very peaceable for some time; but down the Ohio they are continually doing mischief. There are many conjectures in this country, about Colonel Proctor's busi-
ness in the Indian country, as it is known he has left Fort-Franklin, at French-Creek, in company with the Cornplanter, and many of his people.
CHAMBERSBURG, April 14.
Extract of a letter from Putyburg, dated April 29, 1791.
"This town has been greatly alarmed by the approach of the Indians. A party of the militia, draughted as a guard for the frontiers, stationed at the ferry-house opposite this place, on the west of the Alleghany river, had a centinel placed out, who was fired on by two Indians, at the distance of not more than fifteen yards, but he received no injury, one of the bullets cutting the strap that held his pouch, and the other grazed his side through his hunting-shirt; the centinel returned the fire, but also without effect: This firing alarmed the guard, who came to the place, when another Indian had his gun presented, to shoot one of them; which he observed, and fired first: It is supposed he must have wounded the Indian, as he gave a horrid yell, and his piece went off so greatly elevated, that the bullet struck a tree close by, upwards of twenty-five feet up. The Indian then pushed off; but whether the militia dreaded a large party being near, they did not pursue any distance."
Extract of a letter from Lancaster, April 5.
"On Friday the 1st inst. in the morning, after 7 o'clock, we had a wonderful sight here—a fiery ball of the size of a bread basket, with a tail to it about as long as the street is broad, flew over this town, in a direction from east to south; it was of a palish colour, and dropped some sparks. Late the same night a heavy thunder storm came on, and the next morning a fine powder was observed on the ground, and on the standing waters, which on being examined, appeared to possess all the properties of brimstone, except the smell."
PHILADELPHIA, May 11.
Monday night, between the hours of 10 and 11, the city was alarmed with the cry of fire, which broke out in a stable near dock-street; the building was instantly enveloped in flames, which were rapidly communicated to those adjacent; and a great destruction of property was the consequence of this disastrous event—10 or 15 houses, shops, and other buildings, fell a sacrifice to the flames.
The spirit and activity of the citizens were never exerted to better effect—the weather being calm, their exertions prevented the fire from spreading beyond the buildings immediately connected, and many of those, though partly burnt, were saved from total destruction.
The distresses of some of the sufferers are great—the heart of sensibility must be affected—and the hand of benevolence extended to mitigate their sorrows.
The ship Brothers, Capt. James Josiah, arrived here on Monday, after a passage of five months from Canton.
It is pleasing to learn that all the hands who failed from hence in this ship have returned in perfect health, nor did they, during the voyage, experience any kind of sickness.
DIED suddenly, on Monday morning the Hon. FRANCIS HOPKINSON, District Judge of the United States for the State of Pennsylvania.
Science and patriotism sustain a shock in the death of this valuable citizen.
A correspondent observes that there are some persons in the world of so particular a cast of mind that nothing meets with their approbation which has not received their particular fiat as an essential requisite to its existence. The system of the bank of the United States is however almost an exception to the above observation; natives and foreigners have awarded it their approbation—the former on account of its immediate and obvious advantages, and for the wisdom and foresight discovered in its organization, wisely considering that should a foreign direction obtain, and acquire a preponderating influence, the time may arrive, when the destruction of the bank of this country, and a total derangement of its finances might be compensated by the douceurs of a foreign power. Foreigners among other reasons, because it reserves to the citizens of this government the exclusive direction; for while the capital is under the controul of persons the most fully competent to judge of characters, they may be more fully assured that nothing will be done to counteract the general interest of the concerned.
The Bank of the United States may justly be considered as a proposition made to the monied interest, foreign and domestic—and in fact, appears to both in a very favourable point of light—the latter, from every information, are making great preparations to subscribe, and the terms are so advantageous that no equal object of speculation is perhaps presented in any quarter of the globe to the former.
A late writer says, that the only solid foundation of Liberty, is Virtue. When virtue is gone, liberty soon follows, but this must refer to public virtue, for it is notorious, that some of the most renowned modern champions of liberty, are strangers to personal virtue—Is the sentiment then without foundation? I trow not—for tho' no dependence can be rationally placed on the patriotic professions of a vicious character, yet their being obliged to assume the semblance of honesty to carry their points, is an indirect confirmation of the principle.
"The foundation of a belief of the existence and government of a Deity—a regard to the Deity cannot be maintained without some public exercises of religion—Social worship is therefore necessary to the happiness of society, and to the easy administration of government—and in this view worthy the

attention of every legislature, while in a higher view it deserves the regard of every individual."
Patriotism, like Religion, often enjoins duties which are paramount to every other consideration, and tho' the selfish part of mankind derogate from the merit of every action performed by their contemporaries, by imputing the motives to inferior considerations—yet a conscious integrity will furnish a reward for every public spirited exertion, of which envy and censure cannot deprive the votaries of virtue and benevolence.
We learn that upwards of one hundred troops which have been raised in New-Jersey for the service of the frontiers, will march from Trenton for Fort-Pitt this day, under the command of Capt. Zebulon Pike.
Ridicule titles, honors and distinctions among mankind, and you will always be in the majority.
Embrace the first favorable opportunity to traduce the government under which you live—the more free it is, the more you may abuse it with impunity and success.
Always reserve your opinion till you know which is the strongest side.
By observing the foregoing, some have acquired popularity, honors and riches, without possessing any principles of morality or honesty.
Extract of a letter from Boston, April 16.
Several arrivals from England, bring us the state of politics and war in Europe, by which it appears they continue to act over and over the same mad scenes which for many ages have disgraced human nature; When we reflect how incompetent they are to govern themselves, how should our hearts expand with gratitude to heaven for separating us from them.
Some citizens of the United States when contemplating the errors or supposed misdoings of our own government are apt to depreciate its value; let such persons turn their thoughts now and then to Britain, and other nations of Europe, and observe the shocking sacrifices of blood and treasure, faith, honor and religion, and every thing that is called good and they will prize independence. Mr. G——, who came home in the last ship that arrived informs me, that the British and other nations appear now to be fully sensible of the growing greatness of the United States: I trust they will have cause to rise in their ideas of us.
The tour of the President of the United States to the southward at this time is a good plan.—We have heard frequently of uneasiness and oppositions in respect to some of the revenue laws, if any thing of the kind really exists among our southern brethren, seeing him in their country will have a very conciliating effect, and do more than a thousand arguments from even an Ames or a Gerry.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in London, to his friend in this city, by the Pigeon.
"I rejoice to see by the papers, that the United States of America are in such a flourishing condition, and that trade, commerce, husbandry, arts, sciences, manufactures, &c. begin to prosper on your side of the Atlantic. May the blessing of GOD continue to send peace, unity and prosperity to your vast western empire. In London you have many hearty friends, and from the best information, throughout all England. There is great joy among the friends of America here, when things go well in your land, and I can assure you, from personal observation, that your friends daily increase, and that the credit of the American States is perpetually rising, all owing to your well-established and efficient government. May heaven long preserve your well-beloved GEORGE, and continue him to be the friend, the supporter and guardian of your dear native country!—America was the first who stepped forth to light up the expiring lamp of freedom in the world, France has followed her example, and I trust that in time, the whole globe will be illuminated with the same pure flame."
BALTIMORE, May 17.
It is confidently asserted, that the celebrated General Meadows has gained a signal victory over his famous adversary Tippoo Saib, who had descended the Gaults, with an immense force, to attack the British army. The conflict was long and bloody, but British valour and prowess at length prevailed.—The particulars of this event have not yet come to hand, no news-papers having been received from our correspondents, at Philadelphia, by the last mail.
GEORGETOWN, May 14.
Canine Madness.
When persons have been bit by a dog supposed to be mad, the dog is generally killed before any one has ascertained his condition; in consequence of which, the person bit continues in a cruel uncertainty. M. Petit, an eminent surgeon in France, has published the following experiment for determining it, whether the suspicion is groundless or not.
He rubs the teeth, gums and throat of the dead dog, with a piece of meat that has been dressed; taking care that there be no blood to stain it; and then offers it to a living dog: if the living animal refuses it, with crying and howling, it may be concluded that the dog was certainly mad; but if the meat was well received and eaten, there is nothing to fear.
Experiment to be made on a living Dog.
Pour down the throat of a living dog, apprehended to be mad, a cup of balm tea, which will immediately kill him if he is mad.
N. B. Milk will have the same effect, though not so speedily.
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, May 24.
His Excellency the Governor of this State, has issued his Proclamation, bearing date the 3d day of May last, offering a reward of Six Hundred Dollars for apprehending Samuel Brady and Francis McGuire and delivering them to the Executive of Pennsylvania, in the city of Philadelphia, or Three Hundred Dollars for either of them. Those men are charged with being the murderers, or accessory to the four Indians, on the 9th of March last, on Beaver-Creek, in the state of Pennsylvania, and have fled from justice into the state of Virginia. The murdered Indians belonging to the Delaware Nation, who are on terms of friendship and amity with the United States.
The most memorable occurrence in the proceedings of the French Senate in January, 1790, is the eloquent and highly applauded speech of Abbe Seyes, on the FREEDOM of the PRESS. We cannot resist the temptation of citing a few of his remarks. "To fetter the exertions of genius," said he, "by rigid laws, would not only be the grossest violation of the rights of man, but the most flagrant injury to the body of society. The thoughts of an elegant judicious writer are, in some measure, the estate of the public. By means of the freedom of the press they are thrown into a common, and a continually increasing fund for the general benefit of mankind."
After displaying, with all the energy of language the immense advantages which civilized nations derived from the invention of printing, "Would any legislator," said the Abbe, "promise to restrain the exercise of an art of such indescribable utility? It is to printing we are indebted for the greater part of our private enjoyments; and by it we are enabled to communicate our ideas from one extremity of the globe to the other. Nor are its benefits less striking in a political point of view. The press is the centinel and safe guard of public liberty; and it is assuredly the fault of any government not to derive from such a source the most desirable assistance. Are you forming the plan of any laudable undertaking? Grant but full scope to the freedom of the press, and this favourite messenger of wisdom will soon convey to you every necessary information. The press has changed the face of Europe: It will change the face of the universe: It is a faculty given to man for the best and most exalted purposes."
A return of the number of inhabitants within the district of Connecticut, taken the first Monday of August, 1790, by the Marshal.
  Free white males, sixteen years old and upwards. 60,523   Free white males under sixteen years of age, 54,403   Free white females, 117,458   All other free persons, 2,808   Slaves, 2,760   Total amount of males and females in the district of Connecticut, 237,942 
Extract of a letter from West Liberty, Ohio County, to a gentleman in this town, dated May 9, 1791.
"We are all well, except having a bad spell of the pleurisy, which disorder rages through our country—our other complaints are, the savage depredations, (and with just cause) viz. Governor Mifflin, of Pennsylvania, offering a reward of one thousand dollars for each and every man which was at the taking of the five scalps at Beaver-Creek—but we of Ohio County have, by subscription, raised fifty pounds per scalp for the first Indian, thirty for the second, and twenty for the third. Now, Sir, I will inform you of the loss last week—but, before this must inform you, that about the 16th of February, the Indians in a most cruel manner murdered Francis Ryley's family, of five persons, at the mouth of Buffaloe, a party of twenty-six pursued, with Capt. Brady, (formerly of the 8th Pennsylvania regiment, and an officer well known for his bravery) at their front—they took five scalps—for that action Governor Mifflin issued his proclamation.—The loss of men, women, and children, since the 1st of May, are twenty-nine—all within a few miles of your humble servant. Among the slain of the West-Liberty company, there is, John Walker—the mortal wounded are, Joseph Biggs, commandant, Elijah Hedges, Joseph Vanmeter, and a son of Col. Lem. Barrat.—The wounded are like to recover.—These are facts."
Died at Richmond, Mr. JOHN DIXON, Printer.
Reflections in a Burying Ground.
HERE is the last stage of life's journey; here is the collective rendezvous of suffering mortals; here is a safe retreat from the barbed shafts of malice, from pointed perils, and from misery's rod. Here, after noble and ignoble views—after every ardent wish—after pursuing every flattering object, we find the issue of them all. Here, from servile bondage, and oppression's iron hand, rests the wretched negro, whom chance has made a slave: Here he forgets his galling state, and with his lordly tyrant sleeps equally accommodated.—Here the oppressor and the injured moulder together.—Here sleep the meanly saving, and the riotous profuse.—Here prostrate in dust, lay the degraded relicks of soaring mortals! Ought we not, then, to remember the transient vision of terrestrial greatness, and act so as to be prepared to pay the momentary loan of Heaven's great Lender!!!
ON THE EVIL OF JEALOUSY AND ENVY. FROM THE PRUSSIAN.
ONE of the Kings of the Ahasiran Dynasty had, at a particular time, given a public audience.
Of poor and rich, a number came to this assembly—Amongst them a man got up, addressed the King, and said that he had a speech replete with wisdom to present at the royal convention, and it premitted, he would repeat it in presence of His Majesty. This liberty was immediately granted, and he spoke.
"Do good to the good and the bad; for the evil "doer will assuredly meet his deserts."
The King was pleased with the speech, and ordered a daily maintenance for him, that he might always come to court, and repeat those instructive lessons.
For some time he came, and rehearsed many of those before the King and the people, and was often liberally rewarded.—One of the inhabitants of the place at last become envious, and said this man is gathering wealth with very little trouble; I must contrive a scheme to deprive him of it.—He then by means of one of the courtiers, represented to His Majesty, that this good counsellor had the audacity to publish, that he, the King, had an offensive breath.—The Monarch asked, what proof he could bring of this.—He replied, let his Majesty, to-morrow admit him to the honor of a tete a tete conversation, and observe whether he does not stop his mouth and nose with his hand. The next day, before the counsellor went to court, the jealous man saw him, and intreated him to favour him with his company, and condescend to partake of a humble repast. The instructor, from the docility of his nature, and goodness of heart, accepted the invitation.—The treacherous landlord laid before him a dish with a great quantity of garlic in it, of which the preacher ate heartily.—When he went to court, the King, in order to clear up his doubts, called him close to him, for that he had something to whisper in his ear. He observed, that while he spoke, the preacher did keep his hand on his mouth and nose, and was thus convinced that what the envious man had communicated was true. He sat down, wrote two lines, sealed the note, and said, deliver this to a certain person; I have ordered you a present; but the contents really were as follows: "The person who delivers you this, you are immediately to put to death."—When the preacher came out from the King the envious man met him at the door, and asked, what note it was he had in his hand? He said, it was an order from his Majesty, for a present to be given him. The other said, as you to-day was entertained by me, you ought to make over to me this present. The preacher complied, saying to himself, you are in daily receipt of these presents, and this man may be needy; it is best to give him the note and relieve his necessities. He did so, and the envious man, overjoyed at the thoughts of a princely present, hastened to deliver the order. He was instantaneously executed; and notwithstanding his declarations and supplications, saying, I am not the person this order was meant for, it had not the least effect. The King was surprised to see the preacher next day at court again, and asked what he had done with the note. He said he had given it to such a person. The King said, this is truly astonishing; that very man informed me you had proclaimed my having a bad breath. I gave an order to put you to death, in consequence; and this has proved the death of himself. The preacher then related what the envious man had given him to eat; and that, for fear of the garlic proving offensive to his Majesty, he kept his hand between, as mentioned before. His innocence became manifest, and the truth of his first admonition clearly verified. How just are the ways of God, though often incomprehensible to man!
Stop Run-away!
RAN AWAY from the Subscriber, the 2d day of March last, an indentured apprentice named James McMahon, by trade a blacksmith, 19 years old, a good complexion, with a considerable red face, pitted with the small pox on his chin, has a blemish in his left eye, and is about 5 feet 8 inches high—Whoever apprehends the above run-away, and returns him to me, or secures him in some jail so that I get him again, shall receive THREE DOLLARS reward, and if out of the State FIVE DOLLARS, and necessary charges. All persons are cautioned against harbouring or employing the said run-away, as they would avoid the penalty of the law.
JOHN SMITH.
Berkeley County, May 18, 1791.
BERKELEY COUNTY, VIRGINIA, sc. wit.
Adam Leveston, of the said County, sends greeting.
WHEREAS my Wife, MARY LEVESTON, is continually wandering about the country from house to house, neglecting to do the duty of a wife towards the support of herself and family—who has lately clandestinely conveyed away all her cloaths—and who declares she will not live with me, although no just cause administered on my part for it:
Therefore, these presents are to desire, request, and forewarn all and every person or persons whatsoever not to deal or contract, bargain or trust, the said MARY LEVESTON, with any expectation on me to be any ways liable or answerable for the same, for the reasons afore-mentioned.
Given under my hand, this 22d day of May, 1791. ADAM LEVESTON.
Wanted to Hire,
A Negro Wench
That has been accustomed to House Work. Inquire of the Printer.

SEAT OF THE MUSES.
THE ROSE BUD.
To Lavinia, at Fifteen.
WITHIN this cool embow'ring shade, This sweet retreat of lovers made; Amidst the glitt'ring pearls of morn, That ev'ry leaf and spray adorn; How sweetly blooms this op'ning rose! How fresh its purple lustre grows! Soft odours round its beauties play; How fragrant in the cool of day! Oh! blest with youth and form'd for love, Lavinia regent of the grove! Of sense refin'd and simple taste, With rural innocence grac'd; That unaffected state of mind, Which few from books, or breeding find; Alike from awkward silence free, And loud, insipid gaiety; Whose conduct all must so approve, That all must envy, or must love; O! sweeter than the dawning rose, Whose cheeks a livelier blush disclose! When soon, drawn forth to open day, You shine amongst the young and gay, Where Flatt'ry throws her gilded dart, Vice skulks beneath each modest art, May no mistaken excellence To Folly sooth your vigorous sense; No courtly airs, with horror's face, Refine to guilt each virgin grace; No taste from Italy or France, Corrupt your native elegance! May you, secure from the extremes Of Scandal's blasts, or Flatt'ry's beams, Reserve, for generous Strephon's arms, Your beauty's bloom and virgin charms!
A N E C D O T E,
A COUNTRYMAN last winter hawked a pair of Geese about Boston for sale. A townman bargaining for one of them, offered the countryman one shilling and six pence for it—"If you will take them both" said the countryman, "you shall have them for two shillings,"—a bargain returned the cit; and after the purchase, inquired the cause of the disparity of his prices—replied the clown, "they have been companions together these twenty years, and I was very loth to part them now."
NOTICE!
SOME time in MAY, 1791, we bought of HENRY ZIMMER a quantity of Pine Boards, amounting to 54. 6s. 3d. for which we gave our receipt and acknowledgment of debt. Since that JACOB BISHOP has proven part of said Boards to be his property; therefore we forwarn all persons from taking an assignment on said acknowledgment, as we are determined not to pay it, until a settlement with him be made.
GEORGE NORTH & Co. MAY 13, 1791.
Joseph M c Murran, IS NOW OPENING, A large ASSORTMENT of GOODS, Suitable for the present and approaching Season.
HE is conscious the PURCHASES he has made, will enable him to give general satisfaction. WHEAT, RYE, CORN, &c. will be taken in payment, at the Market price.
He returns his thanks to his Customers, and hopes that his low prices will add a number of his fellow Citizens to his acquaintance.
It is needless to enumerate the Assortment, as he is assured he can please in QUANTITY, QUALITY, and PRICE.
Shepherd's-Town, May 2, 1791.
AN APPRENTICE WANTED.
A young LAD, of good character, who can read and write tolerably well, would be taken as an Apprentice, by the Printer hereof.
May 16, 1791.
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, MAY 2, 1791.
The Public will be pleased to take N O T I C E, That at the lower end of the MAIN, otherwise GERMAN-STREET in this Town, In Mr. JACOB STALEY's new Brick House, Nearly opposite Col. Morrow's Store, Is just opening by the Subscriber, FOR CASH ONLY,
A new cheap Store,
Consisting of a great variety of
FRESH GOODS,
Suitable for the Season,
And which he really intends to sell remarkably cheap, but being young in the business, it would ill become him to boast of what he will do, yet he humbly hopes that if the good people who trade to this Town, will be so obliging as to call upon him, they will be perfectly satisfied with the prices of his goods, as well as with that attention which it will be his duty and interest to pay to all his Customers.
He begs to be excused, if in order to avoid giving offence hereafter to any person, he now publicly declares, that it is totally out of his power to give the smallest credit, but to give cheap bargains for ready money, will be a pleasure to
The Public's most obedient, Humble servant,
ZEBULON WARNER.
TO BE EXCHANGED, A new and completely-finished W A G G O N, FOR A Good Saddle Horse,
Not more than 5 or 6 years old. There are two spare Wheels to the Waggon, which renders it convenient for plantation work. A set of new geers will be furnished, if wanted.
Apply to Conrad Sheets, of Sharpsburg, or the Printer hereof.
L E S K A R D, A BRIGHT SORREL,
SIXTEEN hands and one inch high, full blooded, will stand at my Plantation this season, one mile from Winchester, where he will cover Mares at Four Dollars the season, to be paid the first of October next. Nine Shillings the single leap, paid down.
ROBERT WOOD.
March 15, 1791.
L E S K A R D'S PEDIGREE.
His great grand-dam was imported by Mr. Booth, of Gloucester county; his grand-dam was got by Jolley Roger; his dam was got by the Secretary's colt, Lonsdale; and his sire was the famous running horse Yorick, the property of the late honorable John Taloe.
HENRY YOUNG.
SPRING GOODS.
TO BE SOLD, At the Subscriber's STORE, formerly occupied by Mr. JOHN MARK, A fresh and general Assortment of MERCHANDIZE,
Suitable for the Season, Which will be sold as cheap as any in this Town, or its Vicinity, for Cash, Country Produce, or Public Securities.
ROGER COLTART.
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, MAY 4, 1791.
** Cash given for clean Linen or Cotton Rags, at this Office.
John Shearer,
From the City of Edinburg, North- Britain,
WITH regard and esteem gratefully acknowledges the goodness of his Employers in the CABINET and JOINER Business, which he now carries on in all their several branches, in the neatest manner, and upon any plan made known to him, in short time, and with exactness. Application for any article in his line of business, will be fulfilled, at his shop in MARTINSBURG, nearly opposite Mr. William Skinner's Tavern, at the sign of the Ship.
JOHN SHEARER.
April 25, 1791.
FOR SALE, A QUANTITY OF HEMP SEED,
Of the best Quality.—ALSO, F L A X S E E D, Which will be sold on the most reasonable Terms, at my Store in BERKELEY COUNTY, at the late General LEE's Plantation.
JOSEPH MINGHINI.
April 11, 1791.
Edward S. Deegin, Begs leave to inform his friends and customers, that he carries on the Scythe-Factory,
As usual, and is now preparing a large quantity for the ensuing harvest, which may be had at his shop, The sign of the Scythe and Cutting-knife, in Milltown, commonly known by the name of Isaac Perkin's Mill, one mile south-west of the borough of Winchester, on the great road leading to Stephensburg, &c. With a view to accommodate his old customers, his scythes may be had at GAMUEL and JOHN DOWDALL's old store near the Bridge, and at HOLLIDAY and DOUGLAS's Store, the large Stone house, nearly opposite the Golden Fleece, in the Main-street, WINCHESTER, wholesale or retail. Gentlemen farmers from the country, who wish to be accommodated with cradle scythes, may have them made to any length by leaving the dimensions at either of the above Stores, and the utmost punctuality and dispatch may be relied on. Country Store-Keepers may be supplied at the above Stores.
He wants an Apprentice of good character, to learn the different branches of making grass, briar and cradle scythes, and cutting knives; as also a Journeyman Blacksmith, to whom good encouragement and constant employ will be given, and he will be instructed in the scythe-making business, &c. gratis—A single man would be preferred.
Mill-Town, April 7, 1791.
An English School wanted,
BY the Subscriber, who has had fourteen years experience, and who has a family.—Further particulars may be known by applying to the Printer hereof.
W. R. HOWE.
May 2, 1791.
††† Our Paper, No. 26, completed six months since its first publication: The Printer begs leave to remind such of his subscribers as did not pay one half the subscription money at the time of entrance, that they were to pay two dollars, exclusive of postage, at the expiration of half the year; he therefore requests those who are in arrears, to comply with this very necessary part of the contract, as punctuality alone in the payment of the subscription, will enable him to continue the publication of a weekly newspaper in this town.
BLANK DEEDS, COMMON BONDS &c. for sale at this office.
***