The Patowmac guardian, and Berkeley advertiser (Shepherdstown, Va. [W. Va.]), 1790-12-27 00:00:00

Important Advices, Selected from London Papers, received by late arrivals at Philadelphia.
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF FRANCE.
SEPTEMBER 27—28.
ON these two days the debates of the proposed emission of assignats were renewed with much warmth and concluded with a decree passed at the time the Assembly was thrown into great tumult by the conduct of Mr. DUVAL, one of the minority.
He rose and after an inflammatory speech commenced his string of motions thus.
The National Assembly persisting in its principles, but nevertheless convinced that the public tranquility and the restoration of Finances cannot be accomplished while distrust endures to the keeping the majority of the Citizens out of the kingdom, experimentally assured of their necessity, decrees—
1. That the Caisse d'Escompte resume its original operations, and that the 400 Millions Assignats already decreed, shall be returned to their first destination, viz. Bills of that Bank. That on the 15th of October next, there shall be emitted of these Bank Bills 600 Millions without interest:—That on the first of January the Caisse d'Escompte shall pay bureau ouvert: Circulation at that epoch shall be free, and the Funds thrown into the said Bank, composed of the following items.
2. The nation accepts by the organ of the National Assembly the offer of 400 Millions, which has been made in the name of the Clergy. The Religious Communities during 10 years, shall from the Revenues supply an extraordinary aid, which shall be regulated between them and the King.
The President here interrupted him to observe, that if he imagined permission to speak had been given him to criticise former decrees, he deceived himself.
Duval replied, "these are no criticisms, but something better—Principles found and incontrovertible, in consentaneous action with which, and revoking decrees the effects of infatuation, the Assembly will cover itself with glory eternally." At the instance of Mr. Rewbell he continued to move in substance—A re-establishment of the clergy—Letters from the King to authorise a requested loan.
3. Officers Civil and Military paying subsidies. 4. A restoration of all Property fonciere. 5. Re-establishment of Imposts, direct and indirect. 6. Arrears of contribution, and the Funds previously mentioned to be thrown into the Caisse d'Escompte. 7. Pecuniary Privileges to remain abolished. 8. The debt arriere acquitted; the surplus constituted. 9. If the actual impositions suffice not, they may be augmented a sous per livre. 10. The legal alienations to be considered as never having taken place (non avenu). 11. Prevotal Justices re-established. 12. The King replaced in his former plenitude of power. 13. Princes of the Blood and the exiled Citizens, shall be invited to return—all Committees of research in Paris, and elsewhere, abolished. 14. The Assembly wishing the causes of trouble to be forgotten, shall beg his Majesty to grant a general amnesty.
The present decree to be carried by the whole body to the foot of the Throne: and that the King be prayed to give immediately his sanction to the whole.
16. Upon leaving his Majesty, the National Assembly go and pay, Their Respects to the Queen!!
17. A Te Deum in all the Churches on the 30th of October—Acts of Grace to compose differences of opinion—and that the august family of the sovereign be supplicated to assist this ceremony in the Cathedral of Paris.
Surprise and indignation seized the Assembly!—An hundred voices called aloud at once for his—Commitment! Prison! a Fortnight's Confinement!
Here was a moment to decide upon a great National Question!
M. Lameth wished to consider the whole as the effect of insanity, and pass in pity the order of the day.
M. Cazales called him to order.
M. Lameth rejoined—"I see clearly this is a plan of the Counter-Revolution they meditate, and that at length they have not the decency to disguise their intentions." He then announced the Coalition between the enemies of the Troops upon the Frontiers: The restoration of Parliaments and the enlevemet du Roy to Rouen.
M. Duval appeared again in the Tribune—a loud cry immediately refounded—to the Bar! to the Bar! to Prison! to Prison! The tumult was extreme. Ricqueti thanked M. Duval for so clearly developing the dark designs of the Aristocracy, and the enemies of the Assignats.
M. Maury wished to be heard. The discussion was closed. M. Lameth's advice was followed.
M. Barnave's motion was supported with the amendment of 800 Millions.
Mirabeau agreeing to this change, was reproached by Malouet as having altered his opinion.
He replied vehemently this attack.
M. Camus having at length obtained a very sensible majority for his motion, the Minority were exasperated into phrensy.
Cazales and his party rushed upon the President, and wrested him from his bell—tore off his Robes—
He called on that he was in danger, and gave his signal by covering himself.
The majority seizing at length a moment of temporary calm, passed the following decree at the instance of M. Camus.
"The Debt non constituée of the State, and that of the Ci devant Clergy, shall be reimbursed in Assignats, without interest. That there should not be in circulation more than 1200 millions, including the 400 in circulation.
"The Assignats re entering the Caisse d'Extraordinaire to be burnt;—no new emission without an express Decree, upon condition too of not exceeding the National Property. That at no one time the circulated amount shall exceed 1200 millions."
The last resort of the despairing Minority was the Appel Nominal, when the division stood thus:
Table with 2 columns: Motion (513), Against (417)
Majority 16
for the emission of 800 Millions of New Assignats.
L O N D O N,
OCTOBER 11. Mr. Shaw, the King's Messenger, was suddenly despatched by the English Ambassador at Paris, on Tuesday night at 12 o'clock, and he reached London about the same hour on Thursday night, after having been detained some time at Boulogne. On his arrival there, in order to use the utmost expedition, he hired an English Packet, in preference to two others belonging to that port: but no sooner was he on shipboard, than he was accosted by upwards of two hundred Poissardes, who obliged him to disembark, and pay full freight to the French Packet, which was first in turn for sailing.
From the first opening of the despatches which were brought by this messenger from Paris, it may have been observed, that fresh vigor has been added to all the warlike preparations and proceedings. Council after council has been held: At the breaking up of the last on Saturday morning at two o'clock, Mr. Shaw the messenger from Paris, was instantly despatched for Madrid, charged with letters of recall to Mr. Fitzherbert, our Ambassador there.
At the same time, Morley, the King's Messenger, was despatched to our Ambassador at the Hague; and Basilico, the King's Messenger, was also despatched to our Ambassador at Berlin; for what purposes may be easily surmised, especially as it is well known, that
Lord Howe set off for Portsmouth immediately after the breaking up of the first council which was held on the despatches from Paris:
That six new regiments have been determined on since Thursday last;
That an augmentation of ten men and a sergeant are ordered in addition to every company of the Foot Guards;
That the first battalion of each of the three regiments of Foot Guards are ordered to hold themselves in readiness for immediate embarkation; which is a measure never adopted but in cases of the utmost apprehension, or of an actual foreign war; And
That several thousand stand of arms have been removed from the Tower, and sent to Portsmouth, to be put on board the frigates ordered for transporting stores and troops to the West-Indies.
It has been said, that a proclamation will be published in To morrow Night's Gazette, summoning the Parliament to meet for the despatch of Business on the 27th of next month; but for this report, we do not at present pledge the credit of this paper; nor can we see any reason for it more than at the time of its last adjournment, unless it be on account of the bank directors having refused to accept any more navy bills at par.
This circumstance may prove distressing to the Minister, and tend to depress the funds. At present the navy bills suffer a discount of 4 and half or 5 per cent. which reduces the proportionate price of three per cent. Consols, to 72 per cent. and
therefore it may be expected, that this funded property will immediately find its level at that price, if not much lower.
The Tontine, which was at a discount of — ten days ago, was done so high on Saturday as 109 and half, afterwards at 116, and before the close of the market, at 120 per cent. This extraordinary difference can only be accounted for by the shortness of the time which remained for persons to avail themselves of that security, the time of nominating parties being limited to yesterday, Sunday at two o'clock; after which all advances became forfeited, if subscribers Nominees were not sent in.
A vessel is arrived from Gibraltar. She looked into Cadiz by order of the Governor, who despatched her home. The Spanish fleet had entered that harbour; and as far as could be discerned, from the distance she was obliged to keep for fear of discovery and detection, the ships were setting up their rigging afresh, and preparing again for sea. Off the Rock of Lisbon, they spoke a Portuguese vessel from Sacra Bay, which afterwards touched at Cadiz, by which they learnt, that the Spaniards are preparing for war there with the utmost exertions. The people made no secret that in their next cruise, it would be the grand object of their fleet to meet with and fight the English fleet.
News was on Friday received from the East-Indies, that Tippoo Saib had approached very near to Madras with an immense army, and had committed great outrages. It is added, that Lord Cornwallis had superceded the whole of the Council, and ordered them home.
Authentic accounts from Warsaw, dated the 22d ult. mention a decisive engagement having taken place between the Russian and Turkish fleets, near Tendroo and Codgia Bay, on the 9th preceeding, after an obstinate fight of six hours; at the end of which the Turks fled, leaving the Russians masters of the sea.
The Capitania, of 74 guns, commanded by the Captain Pacha, was blown up, with most of the crew, but the Captain saved.
The Vice-Admiral Seid Bey, a Pacha of Three Tails, was taken in a ship of 66 guns and 600 men, together with a frigate having 100 men on board.
As soon as Prince Potemkin heard of the victory, he left Akierman, for the purpose of rewarding those whose valour deserved it.
OCTOBER 12. Orders are issued from the War-Office on Saturday, to raise one hundred companies of foot.
Orders were also issued to the Magistrates in every county, to assist the recruiting parties to raise men as expeditiously as possible.
The three first battalions of the Guards received orders yesterday to be augmented to seventy-five men each company, and to hold themselves in readiness for foreign service; to be attended by one Field Officer. The Officers are ordered to furnish themselves with small tents. Their destination is Jamaica; Government being under apprehensions for the safety of that island. It is well known the Spaniards have long had an eye towards it.
War is now inevitable.
We can, from undoubted authority, assure the public, that a War with Spain is now fixed on, and that hostilities will commence immediately. Fifty new companies are immediately to be raised, and memorials are this day and to-morrow to be given in, for the commissions.
We have authority further to add, that two thousand of the Guards, under the command of the Duke of York, have received orders to prepare to march at a day's notice; and likewise, that Letters of Marque are immediately to be granted.
This accounts for Lord Howe's hasty return to the fleet—and for putting several 44 gun ships into commission, to act as transports—this accounts also for the unremitting exertions of those at the head of the marine and naval departments—and for the unwearied diligence of the commissioners of the Ordnance and Victualling offices.
In consequence of this resolution, Trotter, the King's tent-maker, has received orders to employ an additional number of men, and to get ready, with the greatest despatch, every kind of field equipment.
OCTOBER 13. The greatest difficulty in the way of a peace between Russia and the Porte is, that the former wishes to conclude it without the mediation of any other courts, which condition the Porte refuses to accede to.
The ministers of the Electoral College, at Liege, have made proposals to re-establish tranquility there; but they have been rejected, under arms, with a solemn oath, "to die in defence of liberty, rather than to submit to such conditions."
B R A B A N T.
The following important intelligence we received by letter, and have no doubt of its authenticity:
Mr. Vanderroot's expedition against Limbourg has failed. The peasants which he had collected together, from the different districts, to the amount

of 40,000, entered the Province. A body of 35,000 Limbourgers, and part of the Imperial troops retired until they got the enemy into a convenient situation between Huy and Liege; they then made the attack, and entirely routed the Patriots, and pursued them to the gates of Liege, where they were refused admittance (in consequence of the agreement made between the Liegeois and Leopold) great numbers were therefore killed—Report says 7000.—Three or four hundred of the prisoners, who were undisciplined soldiers, and therefore considered as mere rebels, were hung; among whom were about 30 Capuchins, and 80 Priests. This action took place the 23d.
Sixty-nine waggons of wounded Peasants arrived at Louvain, and 50 more at Brussels, there being no room for them at Namur. The number carried in there we know not.
The Committee of Ostend received this intelligence officially from the States of Flanders. It is also confirmed by another letter, which mentions that the most of the Monks in the different convents of Limbourg are confined on suspicion of being concerned in fomenting these disturbances.
An action is said likewise to have taken place, in which the Patriots under the command of General Koehler, were victorious, having taken many prisoners, six pieces of cannon, and several Ensigns.—General Koehler had three horses killed under him during the engagement.
Congress of the UNITED STATES.
THURSDAY, December 9.
A Message was received from the Senate, that they had concurred in the resolution of the House of Representatives for the election of a Chaplain; and had, on their part, elected the Rev. William White.
On motion of Mr. Smith [S. C.] to-morrow was appointed to ballot for a Chaplain, on the part of the House of Representatives.
Mr. Williamson nominated the Rev. Dr. Blair.
A message was received from the Senate, by Mr. Secretary Lear, who had orders to lay before the House, the papers relative to Kentucky, which had been mentioned in the President's speech.
On motion, the consideration of the matters contained in the President's speech was referred to a committee of the whole on the state of the Union.
A letter from the Secretary at War, accompanied with certain papers, alluded to in the President's speech of yesterday, respecting the expedition against the Indians to the N. W. of the Ohio.
On motion of Mr. Williamson, Messrs. White, Sneyd and Baldwin, were appointed a committee, to prepare and bring in a bill, for amending an act passed during the last session, entitled, 'An act to promote the progress of useful arts.' Adjourned.
FRIDAY, December 10.
The House proceeded, agreeable to the order of yesterday, to elect a Chaplain by ballot, when Mr. Blair was declared duly elected Chaplain on the part of the House.
On motion, ordered, That a committee be appointed to bring in a bill or bills, agreeable to the first section of the second article of the constitution of the United States, declaring the time of choosing electors, and when they shall give their votes; and declaring into what office returns shall be made, and in case of removal, death, resignation, or inability of the President and Vice-President, declaring what officer shall act as President. And that Mr. Benson, Mr. Huntington, Mr. Heister, Mr. Moore and Mr. Partridge, be of the said committee.
On motion of Mr. Lawrence, sundry papers laid before the House yesterday, relative to the Western Expedition, the expenses attending the same, and the depredations of the Indians, &c. were read and ordered to lie on the table.
The committee to whom it was referred to prepare an answer to the President's speech, laid the same on the table, which was read; and on motion ordered, that it be referred to a committee of the whole House, and that it be the order of the day to-morrow. Adjourned.
SATURDAY, December 11.
A letter was read from the Commissioners for the city and county of Philadelphia, giving an account of the measures taken to accommodate the federal legislature during their residence in Philadelphia, by preparing the New-Court-House in the best manner the line of the building permitted; and appropriating the same to their use.
Agreeable to the order of the day, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole to take into consideration the address of the President of the United States, in answer to his speech, as reported yesterday by the committee appointed for that purpose.
Mr. Livermore in the chair. The address being read by the Clerk, the committee discussed the same by paragraphs, and the whole agreed to without amendment.
The committee rose and reported.
The Speaker resumed the chair, and the House agreed to the address as reported by the committee.
Mr. Williamson moved that a committee wait on the President, to know when and where it will be convenient for him to receive the answer of the House to his address—agreed.
The committee appointed to wait on the President, returned and reported, that it would be convenient for him to receive the answer to his address at his own house, on Monday next, at two o'clock.
Adjourned.
MONDAY, December 13.
The Speaker laid before the House a report from the Secretary of the Treasury, on the subject of making further provision for the support of the public credit, agreeably to the orders of the House of the 9th of August last.
The report being read, it was ordered that 100 copies be printed for the use of the House.
On Motion of Mr. Goodhue, Monday next was assigned to take this report into consideration, in committee of the whole House.
Mr. Lee laid the following motion on the table, "That a committee be appointed to bring in a bill directing the mode in which the evidences of the public debt of the United States, which may have been, or shall be lost, shall be renewed."
At two o'clock the House, preceded by the Sergeant at Arms, waited on the President of the United States, at his house, where the Speaker delivered the following Address, in answer to his Speech to both Houses:
SIR, THE Representatives of the People of the United States have taken into consideration your address to the two Houses, at the opening of the present session of Congress.
We share in the satisfaction inspired by the prospects which continue to be so auspicious to our public affairs. The blessings resulting from the smiles of Heaven on our agriculture, the rise of public credit, with the further advantages promised by it, and the fertility of resources which are found so little burthensome to the community, fully authorize our mutual congratulations on the present occasion. Nor can we learn without an additional gratification, that the energy of the laws for providing adequate revenues have been so honorably seconded by those classes of citizens whose patriotism and probity were more immediately concerned.
The success of the loan opened in Holland, under the disadvantages of the present moment, is the more important, as it not only denotes the confidence already placed in the United States, but as the effects of a judicious application of that aid will still farther illustrate the solidity of the foundation on which the public credit rests.
The preparatory steps taken by the state of Virginia, in concert with the district of Kentucky, towards the erection of the latter into a distinct member of the Union, exhibits a liberality mutually honorable to the parties. We shall bestow on this important subject the favourable consideration which it merits: And with the national policy which ought to govern our decision, shall not fail to mingle the affectionate sentiments which are awakened by those expressed in behalf of our fellow-citizens of Kentucky.
Whilst we regret the necessity which has produced offensive hostilities against some of the Indian tribes northwest of the Ohio, we sympathize too much with our western brethren, not to behold with approbation, the watchfulness and vigour which have been exerted by the executive authority, for their protection; and which, we trust, will make the aggressors sensible that it is their interest to merit, by a peaceable behaviour, the friendship and humanity which the United States are always ready to extend to them.
The encouragement of our own navigation, has, at all times, appeared to us highly important. The point of view under which you have recommended it to us, is strongly enforced, by the actual state of things in Europe. It will be incumbent on us to consider in what mode our commerce and agriculture can be best relieved from an injurious dependence on the navigation of other nations, which the frequency of their wars renders a too precarious resource for conveying the productions of our own country to market.
The present state of our trade in the Mediterranean seems not less to demand, and will accordingly receive, the attention you have recommended.
Having already concurred in establishing a judiciary system, which opens the doors of justice to all without distinction of persons, it will be our disposition to incorporate every improvement which experience may suggest; and we shall consider in particular, how far the uniformity which in other cases is found convenient in the administration of the general government through all the states, may be introduced into the forms and rules of executing sentences issuing from the federal courts.
The proper regulation of the jurisdiction and functions which may be exercised by consuls of the United States in foreign countries, with the provisions stipulated to those of his Most Christian Majesty established here, are subjects of two much consequence to the public interest and honour not to partake of our deliberations.
We shall renew our attention to the establishment of the militia and other subjects unfinished at the last session, and shall proceed in them with all the dispatch which the magnitude of all, and the difficulty of some of them, will allow.
Nothing has given us more satisfaction than to find, that the revenues heretofore established, have proved adequate to the purposes to which they were allotted. In extending the provision to the residuary objects, it will be equally our care to secure sufficiency and punctuality, in the payments due from the Treasury of the United States. We
shall also never lose sight of the policy of diminishing the public debt, as fast as the increase of the public resources will permit; and are particularly sensible of the many considerations, which press a resort to the auxiliary resources furnished by the public lands.
In pursuing every branch of the weighty business of the present session, it will be our constant study to direct our deliberations to the public welfare. Whatever our success may be, we can at least answer for the fervent love of our country, which ought to animate our endeavours. In your co-operation, we are sure of a resource, which fortifies our hopes, that the fruits of the established government will justify the confidence, which has been placed in it, and recommend it more and more to the affection and attachment of our fellow citizens.
To the foregoing Address the PRESIDENT was pleased to reply.
GENTLEMEN,
THE sentiments expressed in your Address, are entitled to my particular acknowledgments. Having no object but the good of our country, this testimony of approbation and confidence, from its immediate Representatives, must be among my best rewards, as the support of your enlightened patriotism has been amongst my greatest encouragements. Being persuaded that you will continue to be actuated by the same auspicious principle, I look forward to the happiest consequences from your deliberations, during the present session.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
TUESDAY, December 14.
The House being met, the Clerk proceeded to read a report from Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury, relative to the establishment of a National Bank: which was ordered to be printed for the use of the members, and made the order of the day for Tuesday next.
A message was delivered by Mr. Secretary Lear, from the President of the United States, accompanied with official communications respecting the expedition against the Indians northwest of the Ohio.
Mr. Roudinot, from the committee, reported the militia bill; which was read the first and second time, and then ordered to be referred to a committee of the whole House on Thursday next.
WEDNESDAY, December 15.
The House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, on the state of the Union. Mr. Livermore in the chair.
A defunctory conversation arose, respecting the form of proceeding on the President's speech. After some time, however, the committee agreed to, and reported, the following resolutions:
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this committee, that immediate provision ought to be made for defraying the expense of the expedition against the Indians, northwest of the Ohio.
Resolved, as the opinion of this committee, that a committee be appointed to report a bill or bills for the further encouragement of the navigation of the United States.
Resolved, That such part of the President's speech as relates to the Mediterranean Trade, be referred to the Secretary of State.
The foregoing resolutions being adopted by the House, the first was referred to the Secretary of the Treasury, to report ways and means; the second to a committee of twelve members, one from each state; the third to Mr. Jefferson, secretary of state.
THURSDAY, December 16.
The House resolved itself into a committee of the whole House, on the state of the Union, to take into consideration the bill further to provide for the national defence, by establishing an uniform militia throughout the United States. Mr. Speaker left the chair, and Mr. Livermore took the chair of the committee; after some time spent in debate, the committee rose, the speaker resumed the chair, and the chairman reported, that the committee of the whole House had under their consideration the bill, "further to provide for the national defence, by establishing an uniform militia throughout the United States," and had made so e progress therein; but not having had time to go through the same prayed for leave to sit again. Adjourned.
[To be continued.]
NEW-YORK, December 16.
In support of a general expectation that the disputes, between Great-Britain and Spain would terminate in hostilities, we now announce the arrival of Capt. Wilkie, of the ship Triumph, in 22 days from Barbadoes; by which we are informed that, two days previous to his sailing, there arrived from England three forty-four gun ships, and a number of victuallers, with four thousand troops, who were actually landed on that island, the day before the Triumph took her departure; and that a reinforcement of four thousand more soldiers was daily expected, with men of war and frigates.
A letter from London, dated the 16th of October, mentions, That the appearances of war had rapidly increased the preceding week, and that things became more serious and approached nearer to a crisis—nothing, however, had been finally determined on. Spain, it was said, had yielded a little, and England, in proportion, increased her demands. The best informed could only conjecture what might be the result. Strong detachments were to be sent to the West-Indies in case of war, and offensive operations to take place there. That in consequence of the large contracts for Rum, the price had risen from 5/5 to 4/6.—The harvest in England was very plentiful, and in consequence of the fall in the price of grain, considerable exports were to be made to the West-Indies.

Interesting and authentic Intelligence.
On Monday night last, Lieut. Denny arrived here from Fort-Washington, the Head-Quarters of the troops of the Ohio, and brought the following important Letter, by which it will appear that the main objects of the late expedition have been accomplished, notwithstanding the report to the contrary. The loss of Major Wylllys, Major Fontaine, and the other brave officers and men, who gallantly fell in the service of their country, is to be sincerely regretted:
Governor St. Clair's Letter to the Secretary at War. Fort Washington, November 6, 1790.
SIR,
"On the 29th of last month, I had the honor to inform you generally of the success that had attended General Harmer—I could not then give you the particulars, as the General's letters had not reached me, (the officer, however, who had them in charge, got in a few days afterwards.) It is not now necessary, because he writes himself. One thing, however, is certain, that the savages have got a most terrible stroke, of which nothing can be a greater proof, than that they have not attempted to harass the army on its return.—They arrived at this place on the 3d instant in good health and spirits. There is not yet any account from Major Hamtramck:—I trust he also has been successful; but this I think is certain, that no great misfortune can have happened to him, for in that case we should certainly have heard of it.
"Mr. Denny, the gentleman who takes General Harmer's despatches, I beg leave to mention to you in a particular manner, that if you will be pleased to do so to the President in his favour, you may be assured he will not disappoint any expectations that may be formed. He has every quality that I could wish a young man to possess, that meant to make the army his profession. There are, however, some traits in his character as a man, that are not generally known, that would endear him. Out of the little pittance he receives, he has maintained two aged parents for a long time."
Head Quarters, Fort Washington, November 4, 1790.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you, that on the 30th of September I marched with 320 federal troops, and 1133 militia—Total 1453. After encountering a few difficulties we gained the Miami village. It was abandoned before we entered it, which I was very sorry for. The villanous traders would have been a principal object of attention. I beg leave to refer you to my orders, which are enclosed. The substance of the work is this; our loss was heavy, but the Head-Quarters of iniquity were broken up. At a moderate computation not less than 100 or 120 warriors were slain, and 300 log-houses and wigwams burned. Our loss about 180. The loss of Major Wylllys, and Lieutenant Frothingham, of the federal troops, and a number of valuable militia officers, I sincerely lament.
Lieutenant Denny, the bearer, is my Adjutant.—It will afford me great satisfaction to know that some mark of honour will be shewn him. His long and faithful services merit it. There is a vast deal of business in this Western World. If there is no impropriety in giving me an Aid-de-Camp, I wish him to be the person.
In my next despatches, I shall enter into the minutiae of business, and give you a particular description of each day's march, with all the occurrences and observations, &c. &c.
I have the honor to be, Sir, with perfect esteem, Your most humble and obedient servant, [Signed] JOS. HARMER, Lt. Col. Com. 1st. U. S. Regiment.
N. B. My Adjutant is really and truly an officer. To the Hon. Major General Knox, Secretary at War. GENERAL ORDERS.
Head Quarters, Fort Washington November 4, 1790.
THE Kentucky and Pennsylvania militia are to be mustered this afternoon at 1 o'clock, by Captain Riegler. The order and regularity which the militia observed on their return to the Ohio river, was highly commendable. Upon the whole, the General is exceedingly pleased with their conduct during the expedition. Notwithstanding our loss was great, yet, when he reflects that the army, in five weeks, not only effected the capital object of destroying the Miami village and the Maumee towns, as they are generally called, with the vast quantity of corn and vegetables therein, but also killed upwards of 100 of their warriors, it must afford every man the greatest satisfaction. The militia of Kentucky are to receive pay until the 10th instant, provisions are to be drawn for them until that time, and to-morrow morning they are to march to their respective homes.
The General returns his thanks to every officer and private for their good conduct, and hereby discharges them with honour and reputation—the wounded men are to be left under the care of Dr. Allison and his mates, who will take all possible care of them.
[Signed] JOS. HARMER, Brig. Gen. Return of the killed and wounded upon the expedition against the Miami towns, under the command of Brigadier-General Harmer. Head-Quarters, Fort Washington, November 4, 1790.
KILLED OF THE FEDERAL TROOPS, 1 Major, 2 Lieutenants, 73 rank and file, total 76. WOUNDED, 3 Rank and file.
KILLED OF THE MILITIA, 1 Major, 3 Captains, 2 Lieutenants, 4 Ensigns, 38 rank and file, total 108.
WOUNDED,
2 Lieutenants, 1 Ensign, 25 rank and file, total 28. Total killed, 183—wounded, 31.
KILLED OF THE FEDERAL TROOPS, Major Wylllys, and Lieutenant Frothingham.
KILLED OF THE MILITIA.
Major Fontaine; Captains Tharp, Scott, and McMurray; Lieutenants Clark and Rogers; Ensigns Sweet, Bridges, Higgins, and Threlkeld.
WOUNDED,
Lieutenants Sanders and Worley; Ensign Arnold. [Signed] JOS. HARMER, Brig. Gen.
Extract of a letter from the Secretary at War, to the President of the United States.
"Lieut. Denny reports verbally, that after he left Fort-Washington, he saw in Kentucky several men of the militia of that district, who had been out with Major Whitly, under Major Hamtramck, of the federal troops, who commanded a separate expedition.
"The said militia-men informed Lieut. Denny, that Major Hamtramck had destroyed several of the hostile Indian towns, on the Wabash, and had returned to his garrison at Fort Vincennes, without having met any opposition."
EXTRACTS FROM ORDERS.
Note. The orders issued previously to the march of the troops and militia from Fort Washington, and until they arrived at the Miami village, relate to the arrangement of the troops, the order of march, of encampment, and of battle, and the discipline necessary to be observed, all of which are particularly detailed.
GENERAL ORDERS.
Camp at the Miami Village, about 170 miles from Fort Washington, October 17, 1790.
The General is highly pleased with the zeal and alacrity shown by the army, particularly the corps which was detached under the command of Col. Hardin, to come up with the savages, although it was impracticable, as they had evacuated their favourite towns, before the light corps could possibly reach them.
Leaving behind them such a vast quantity of corn and vegetables, is a certain sign that they occupied in the utmost consternation, and dare not face the enemy.
The army is to remain in its present position until further orders; in the mean time, Quarter-Master Pratt is to have the corn brought in and deposited in one place, or in as many houses as he can find, and a guard to be placed over it for its security. He will receive directions how it is to be distributed.
The superintendant of the horse department, Mr. Caldwell, is to be responsible that his pack-saddles are repaired, and put into as good repair as possible, ready for the next movement of the army.
The General calls upon the commanding officers of battalions not to suffer their men to straggle from the encampment, otherwise they will certainly stand in danger of being scalped.
The guards are to be extremely vigilant, to which the field officer of the day is to pay the most pointed attention.
A detachment, under the command of Lt. Col. Commandant Trotter, consisting of
  Federal troops 30   Major Fontaine's light horse 40   Riflemen 230 
Total 300
are to march to-morrow morning early.
Lieutenant-Colonel Commandant Trotter will receive his orders from the General.
JOS. HARMER, Brig. Gen.
Camp, at Chillicothe, one of the Shawanee towns, on the Omeo River, October 20, 1790.
The party under the command of Capt. Strong, is ordered to burn and destroy every house and wigwam in this village, together with all the corn, &c. which he can collect.
A party of 100 men [militia] properly officered, under the command of Col. Hardin, is to burn and destroy, effectually, this afternoon, Pickaway-town, with all the corn, &c. which he can find in it and its vicinity.
The cause of the detachment being worsted yesterday, was entirely owing to the shameful, cowardly conduct of the militia, who ran away and threw down their arms, without firing scarcely a single gun. In returning to Fort-Washington, if any officer or men shall presume to quit their ranks, or not march in the form they are ordered, the General will most assuredly order the artillery to fire on them. He hopes the check they received yesterday will make them, in future, obedient to orders.
JOS. HARMER, Brig. Gen.
Extract of a letter from a member of Congress, now at New-York, to his friend in this city, dated December 2.
"Mr S—— has this moment received letters from England of the 15th day of October, and from the hostile movements there, the alliances formed in Europe, and the sudden departure of a number of ships of war and transports for the West-Indies, war seems inevitable, I give you this information because it may be relied on."
BALTIMORE, December 21.
On the 30th of September last, his Majesty Leopold II King of Hungary and Bohemia, was announced to the Public, in the City of Frankfort, as King of the Romans, and Chief of the German Empire, having obtained all the Suffrages of the Electoral College.
The Militia-Army, Infantry and Cavalry, of Massachusetts, all armed for War, consists of 75 000 Men.
The Militia of New-Hampshire, is said to be in a high Degree of Discipline—and that its Cavalry are the most numerous and respectable, in the Union.
The last purchase of public debt made by the Treasurer of the United States, which was on the 13th inst.—he gave FIFTEEN SHILLINGS AND TEN PENCE on the pound, for funded six per-cents. Since which they are got up to 16/8 and are still rising.
ALEXANDRIA, Sept. 9.
DIED—NEGRO TOM, the famous African Calculator, aged 80 years. He was the property of Mrs. Elizabeth Cox of this County. Tom was a very black man. He was brought to this Country at the age of 14, and was sold as a slave with many of his unfortunate Countrymen.
This man was a prodigy. Though he could neither read nor write, he had precisely acquired the art of enumeration. The power of recollection and the strength of memory were so complete in him, that he could multiply 7 into itself, that product by 7, and the product, so produced, by seven for seven times. He could give the number of months, days, weeks, hours, minutes and seconds, in any period of time that any person chose to mention, allowing in his calculation for all the leap-years that happened in the time; and would have the number of poles, yards, feet, inches and barley-corns in any given distance, say the diameter of the earth's orbit, and in every calculation he would produce the true answer in less time than ninety-nine men in a hundred would take with their pens: And, what was perhaps, still more extraordinary, though interrupted in the progress of his calculation, and engaged in discourse upon any other subject, his operations were not thereby in the least deranged, so as to make it necessary for him to begin again, but he would go on from where he had left off, and could give any, or all, of the stages through which the calculation had passed. His first essay in numbers was counting the hairs in the tails of the cows and horses which he was set to keep. With little instruction he would have been able to cast up plats of land. He took great notice of the lines of land which he had seen surveyed. He drew just conclusions from facts; surprisingly so for his opportunities. Thus died Negro Tom, this self-taught Arithmetician, this untutored Scholar!—Had his opportunities of improvement been equal to those of thousands of his fellow-men, neither the Royal Society of London, the Academy of Sciences at Paris, nor even a Newton himself need have been ashamed to acknowledge him as a Brother in Science.
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, December 27.
A letter from a northern correspondent, received by the last mail, says, "It is without dispute a fact, that hostilities between Spain and Great-Britain have commenced;—we are confirmed in this opinion by a recent account of a Spanish Frigate having fallen in with a British Cruiser off Coruna, where, after hailing, she ordered the British to come under her lee, which being rejected, a smart engagement ensued, wherein many on both sides were killed and wounded;—the conflict continued 8 glasses, but night coming on, put a period to the engagement. The British Frigate immediately stood for Gibraltar, and communicated what had happened to Governor O'Hara, who has sent despatches thereupon to London, from whence this intelligence comes."
Monday evening last a young Man named ANDREW KYSACRE, was unfortunately drowned in the Run that passes through the centre of this town. This melancholy event was more astonishing, as the run was neither deep or rapid, though there is a dangerous place near where the body was found, as passengers must go over a round log. This event ought to be a caution to every one, but more especially those who venture to go over such places when intoxicated! It ought to be a sufficient warning, and tend to prevent that too customary and prevailing vice of intemperance.—The deceased was in general industrious and sober, notwithstanding he fell at that unguarded moment a sacrifice to that Bane of Mankind, though a vice we are informed he was not much addicted to. It is remarkable that when the corpse was found, the upper part of the head was not covered with the water. It is supposed that when the unfortunate man endeavoured to cross the run, he fell on a stone, which, from appearance, had thrown him so much that he was immediately deprived of sensation.
We learn that the impost, and tonnage, from July 1st to Oct. 1st, 1790, have yielded nearly 19000 dollars more in New-York than in Philadelphia. The sums received in both cities, during this period, considerably exceed 400,000 dollars.—The increase of commerce in these two cities has been truly surprising: and we may suppose, that it has been proportionably great in the other parts of the United States.
The provinces of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, cost the crown of Britain above 40,000 dollars per annum, besides the army and navy expenses. Like the Indian's gun, "they cost more than they came to."
CAME to the House of the Subscriber, about the first July last, FOUR EWES, all swallow-tailed in the right ear. The owner is requested to come, pay charges, and take them away.
JOHN BANKS. Berkeley-County, Virginia, 5 miles from Shepherd's Town, near Patowmac River.

SEAT OF THE MUSES.
STANZAS
On the EMIGRATION to AMERICA, and peopling the WESTERN COUNTRY.
TO western woods, and lonely plains, PALEMON from the crowd departs, Where nature's wildest genius reigns, To tame the soil, and plant the arts— What wonders there shall freedom show, What mighty STATES successive grow!
From Europe's proud, despotic shores, Hither the stranger takes his way, And in our new-found world explores A happier soil, a milder sway, Where no proud despot holds him down, No slaves insult him with a crown.
What charming scenes attract the eye, On wild Ohio's savage stream! Here nature reigns, whose works outvie The boldest pattern art can frame; Here ages past have roll'd away, And forests bloom'd but to decay.
From these fair plains, these rural seats, So long conceal'd, so lately known, The unsocial Indian far retreats, To make some other clime his own, Where other streams, less pleasing, flow, And darker forests round him grow.
Great Sire of floods! whose varied wave Through climes and countries takes its way, To whom creating nature gave Ten thousand streams to swell thy sway! No longer shall thy useless prove, Nor idly through the forests rove:
Nor longer shall thy princely flood From distant lakes be swell'd in vain, Nor longer through a darksome wood Advance, unnotic'd, to the main, Far other ends the fates decree— And commerce plans new freights for thee.
While virtue warms the generous breast, Here heaven-born freedom shall reside, Nor shall the voice of war molest, Nor Europe's all-aspiring pride— Here reason shall new laws devise, And order from confusion rise.
Forsaking kings and regal state, (A debt that reason deems amiss) The traveller owns, convinc'd though late, No realm so free, so blest as this— The EAST is half to slaves consign'd, And half to slavery more refin'd.
O come the time and haste the day, When man shall man no longer crush, When reason shall enforce her sway, Nor these fair regions raise our blush, Where still the African complains, And mourns his yet unbroken chains.
Far brighter scenes, a future age, The muse predicts, these States shall hail, Whose genius shall the world engage, Whose deeds shall over death prevail, And happier systems bring to view Than all the eastern sages knew.
*Mississippi.
Anecdote of Doctor FRANKLIN.
HE was one day with a friend, where was present a large company of ladies and gentlemen; the general topic of conversation was on what did not concern them; bordering much on slander.—After a number of complaints, to the prejudice of several, a lady, who was seated next to the Doctor, and had gone on in a most extravagant line of conversation, informed him of a Mrs. —, who was going on a visit to Europe; she will leave a large family and but little to support them, said the fair, she had better stay at home—what think you, Doctor, of such conduct? the worthy old man, who was ever cautious, and wished to avoid injuring the character of others—made this laconic sage reply—Madam, I mind my own business.
The Subscriber returns his most grateful thanks to the citizens of this town and its vicinity, for the generous encouragement they have given him; and at the same time informs them, that his School of Vocal Music, will re-commence this evening, at six o'clock, at Mr. DOWELL's SCHOOL-HOUSE.
J. WILKINSON.
Dec. 20, 1790.
Richard M c Sherry,
At his NEW STORE in Martinsburg,
(Lately Mr. McKEWAN's Tavern) Is now opening and has ready for SALE, on the lowest terms, by wholesale and retail.
BEST old Jamaica and Antigua Spirits,
West-India and New-England Rum, London Madeira, Lisbon, Teneriff and Claret Wines,
Loaf, Lump and Brown Sugar, Molasses, Coffee, Chocolate and Cotton, Hyson, Green and Bohea Tea, Ginger, Pepper, Allspice and Mustard, Gun-Powder, Shot, Flints, and Bar Lead, Indigo, Copperas and Madder, Crawly and blistered Steel, Cotton and Wool Cards, Iron and Salt, Queen's and Glass Ware.
Cash, Wheat, Rye, Oats, Bees-Wax, Indian Corn, and Public Securities, will be received in Payment.
Fort-Cumberland Nail-Manufactory.
At this place I make all sorts of
Nails, Brads, Spikes,
and SPRIGS,
Which I will sell low for cash, or country produce. I also want a Number of NAILORS, that are good workmen, and I will give good wages.
JOHN PIRCE.
November 22, 1790. N. B. At this place we work all Stone Coals.
A Stray.
CAME to the Plantation of the Subscriber, about a month ago, a small black GELDING, about four years old. He is pofed and appraised to forty-two shillings Virginia Currency — The owner may have him by proving his property and paying charges.
GILES COOKE, sen.
December 3, 1790.
FOR SALE, A
Valuable Plantation,
Situated in BERKELEY COUNTY,
About 8 miles from SHEPHERD's-TOWN, and one mile from HALL's MILL, containing about 363 acres, 100 of which is now under improvement, has a good ORCHARD, with 120 bearing APPLE-TREES, a two-story stone DWELLING-HOUSE, with a KITCHEN, BARN, convenient OUT-HOUSES, LOOM-HOUSE, DISTIL-HOUSE, &c. &c. There are on the above Land 20 Acres of excellent MEADOW, and a number more might easily be made. A stream of good water runs through the whole Meadow. The Plantation is under good improvement. Whoever may incline to purchase the above Land, are requested to apply to the Subscriber, living on the premises.
THOMAS CROW.
November 23, 1790.
Notice!
WHEREAS my Wife Catharine Lindsey, for a long time past, has behaved herself in an unbecoming manner, which I have suffered with every fortitude I was master of, but, on my late return from Winchester, I not only discovered her criminally connected with another man, but that she had run me in debt at several places in this town—I therefore am, in justice to myself, obliged to forbid all persons trusting her in future on my account, as I will pay no debt of her contracting, after this date.
DAVID LINDSEY.
Shepherd's-Town, November 23, 1790.
WANTED, A GOOD MILCH COW.
Any person who has one to dispose of, may hear of a purchaser, by applying to the Printer.
NOTICE is hereby given, that agreeable to Law the following Tracts of Land, or so much thereof, will be sold for the Taxes due thereon, and the expences, viz.
 JOHN BELL, 150 Acres for 1787 and 1788.  Jonas Bean, 100 for ditto  William Chambers, 225 for ditto  George Coon, 187 for ditto  George Clarke, 115 for ditto  Samuel Davis, 100 for ditto  Benjamin Foreman, 200 for ditto  Tho. Lord Fairfax, 761 for ditto  John Fleet, 100 for ditto  Michael Ingle, 90 for ditto  Matthias Keen, 30 for ditto  John Lemon, 79 for ditto  John Loer, 1 Lot,  Edward McKeen, 100 Acres for ditto  James Nourse, 879 for ditto  John Rizer, 103 for ditto  Jacob Roads, 295 for ditto  Daniel Rust, 100 for ditto  William Small, 150 for ditto  Wil. Vastall's heirs, 283 for ditto  James Willett, 123 for ditto  Thomas White, 167 & half for ditto  John Wimmer, 1 Lot  Bazel Abrams, 100 for 1788  John Brannon, 200 for ditto  Sam. Banks's exec's. 127 for 84, 85, 86, 87 & 88.  Jonathan Brown, 100 for ditto  William Barnes, 200 for ditto  William Crawford, 1 Lot for ditto  — Clarke, 1 do. for ditto  John Crockett, 1 do. for ditto  Col. Carlyle's exec's. 4 do. for ditto  Thomas Dent, 550 Acres for ditto  James Elliot, 100 for ditto  James Edmondson, 743 for ditto  George Elkridge 1000 for ditto  James Fulton, 150 for ditto  Peter Finagle, 40 for ditto  George Foland, 2 Lots  Nancy Fox, 148 Acres ditto  Tho. Lord Fairfax, 750 do. and 5 Lots,  William Fitzhugh 1 Lot,  Michael Faulkner, 1 do.  William Gilbreath 105 Acres,  William Grant, 100  Richard Graham, 400  Jean Logan, 272  David Hofman, 240  — Hamlin, 800  — Higgins's exec. 1 Lot.  Col. Howard, 1 do.  Col. Hite, 2 do.  Jeremiah Hoskinson, 200 Acres,  John Jackson's exec. 86  Joseph Keen, 300  Adam Kellon 1 Lot,  Fielding Lewis, 1 do.  Luke & Milback, 1 do.  William McMahan, 300 Acres,  Thomas McIntire, 200  Joseph Mitchell, 145  Mary Manning, 300  John Noland, 1 Lot,  William Neal, 100 Acres,  William Neely, 400  John Perkins, 172  M. Page, 1 Lot,  Daniel Reed, 10 Acres,  Ann Roberts, 100  Thomas Russel, 1 Lot,  Gapser Seever, 96 Acres,  John Stull 1 Lot,  Henry Stephens & Co. 1 do.  Jacob Tabler, 1 do.  Mebling Woolery, 2 do.  Jacob Ward's exec. 50 Acres,  Williams & Cary 100  Henry Yakey 450 
The sale will commence the 10th of FEBRUARY next, on the Land of John Bell, and continue from Day to Day, until the Whole is sold.
SMITH SLAUGHTER, (Late Sheriff Berkeley County.)
December 3, 1790.
Notice.
RAN away from the subscriber, on the 1st of November last, at Winchester, an indented apprentice named JOHN HUTCHINSON. All persons, particularly Printers, are cautioned against harbouring or employing the said apprentice, as they would avoid the penalty of the law. Whoever will bring him to me at Shepherd's-Town, shall receive what the law allows, for their trouble. N WILLIS.
Wanted immediately, by the Printer hereof,
A strong active Lad, who has received a tolerable education, would be taken as an Apprentice to the Printing-Business.