Norfolk gazette and publick ledger (Norfolk [Va.]), 1808-12-30 00:00:00

The Editor of this paper not having been able to dispose of his establishment on terms correspondent with publick and private considerations, informs his friends that the Norfolk Gazette and Publick Ledger will be conducted under his direction as heretofore.
The Editor avails himself of the present occasion to request those indebted to him to forward without delay their respective balances; without attention to this request, the continuation of this paper, is a matter which does not depend on the will of the Editor.
Ledger Office, Dec. } 24th, 1808.
Our last contained a report of one of the causes, which came before the federal district court at this place, and this day's paper contains reports of the other two embargo cases, as they are called. It will be perceived that they were argued upon points of law, in which it was not necessary to touch the embargo laws. To the learned counsel, for their assistance in enabling us, to lay before the publick, these correct and able reports, we return our thanks.
In the case of the United States against Blair, the counsel contended, that if the bond had been filled up with the amount to which the defendants assented, when the estimate was made, yet if it had not been filled up in their presence, that the bond was not valid in law—but it not being necessary to argue that point, he did not go into it but very slightly. The bond being for a different amount, and more than what was assented to, was deemed conclusive.
Mr. GILES's bill has been twice read in the house of representatives, and stands committed for a third reading, but with what or if any amendments, we know not. If it passes as originally reported, we shall consider our country as no longer free, and inasmuch as one tyrant is better than many, it only remains for congress to create a Dictator, and return home.
It is not easy to form any judgment of what congress mean to do, by the measures proposed. For whilst one committee is reporting their non-intercourse and embargo bills, with other ramifications of the Terrapin policy, another is employed in preparing warlike measures. We pity poor Mr. Gallatin, who must be distracted to perceive his plans of finance, so completely confused.
LAW INTELLIGENCE.
REPORTED FOR THE LEDGER.
District Court of the United States at Norfolk, December, 1808.
The United States, } In Debt. vs. Hipkins and others, }
This was an action of debt brought to recover the sum of one thousand dollars, the penalty of the bond given by the defendants to obtain the coasting license of a schooner called the Caroline.
The declaration set out the bond, which after reciting that the schooner Caroline had been licensed for carrying on the coasting trade for one year, in pursuance of the act of congress in that case made, concluded with this condition, "Now in case it shall appear within two years from the date hereof, that the said schooner Caroline has been employed in any trade whereby the revenue of the United States has been defrauded, during the time for which the license aforesaid is granted, or remains in force then, &c. but otherwise," &c.—The breach assigned was, "that the schooner Caroline, during the time the license aforesaid remained in force, was employed in a trade whereby the revenue of the United States was defrauded, to wit, that she was employed in the foreign trade, that is to say in a trade to the Island of Antigua, which is a foreign place, by reason whereof the United States had been defrauded of their tonnage duties."
After oyer of the bond and conditions prayed and had, there was a general demurrer to the declaration filed—In this demurrer the United States joined—And the cause came on to be argued at this term before Griffin Judge; Hay, district attorney, of counsel for the plaintiffs, and Tazewell and Taylor, for the defendants.
On the part of the defendants it was argued,
1. That a bond taken by a publick officer, under the directions of a statute, must substantially conform to the provisions of the statute, or it is void.
In maintaining this position, a distinction was taken between a bond taken to an individual, and a bond taken to a publick officer—In the former case it was admitted, that the bond altho' it did not conform to the statute which authorized it, was not absolutely void, but might (under certain circumstances) be supported as an obligation at common law, and be enforced by a common law remedy—As in the case of a faulty delivery of a bond, which altho' void as a statutory bond, might, nevertheless, be valid, and enforced as a common law obligation.
The reason of this was stated to be, that the execution of a bond to an individual, was a voluntary act on the part of the obligor; and as the law contained no prohibition, whereby an individual was forbidden the performance of any obligation (unless it
required some act malum in se ) the voluntary obligation created by the execution of the bond must continue, until by an appeal to a court, the object had shown that it was improper it should be enforced. This was illustrated by reference to the cases of bonds given for usurious contracts or gaming debts, and the like—all of which bonds it was said, altho' voidable by the pleadings and evidence of the obligor, yet remained good, until such pleading had been exhibited and evidence heard. The reason of such cases, however, it was said, did not apply to the case of bonds taken to publick officers. Such bonds could in no instance be considered as voluntary acts —The obligor it was true had the physical power of refusing to execute the bond required of him, but if he did, he either subjected his person to imprisonment, his property to sacrifice, or deprived himself of some important legal benefit.—For the law which required of a publick officer to take a bond necessarily gave to him, a sort of discretion as to the contents of that bond—The obligor being thus committed by the law itself into the power of its officer, the law most wisely guarded him against the illegal acts which might be practised upon him by such officer, and therefore not only subjected the officer to a suit for damages at the instance of him whom he had illegally injured, but also to an indictment. And as the remedy of the injured party might be still incomplete, if the bond illegally exacted from him, was permitted to remain in force, the obligation of such bond was destroyed, and the bond itself made void. To prove this, many cases were referred to, both in the British books, and in our own courts.
It was also agreed, that in the case of a bond taken to an individual, in pursuance of a statute, which statute gave a special remedy, to enforce the bond, if the obligee claimed this statutory remedy, the bond and the statute must be compared in order to ascertain their uniformity, and if any substantial variance was discovered between them, the statutory remedy would be denied, and the obligee would be turned round to his common law action to enforce his common law obligation. And it was contended that the remedy upon this bond, given to a publick officer was a statutory remedy.
The remedy must be either a statutory remedy, or a common law remedy. To entitle the obligee however to sue at common law upon a bond, it must be shown that the bond enures to his benefit—But this bond does not enure to the individual benefit of the obligee, in his corporate character, but in point of fact, there is no such individual as the United States. An action cannot therefore be maintained upon it at common law, by the United States as an individual—nor can it be maintained in their corporate character, for the common law will sustain no prosecution for the performance of an act which the common law does not forbid, or assist in enforcing any other penalties, than those prescribed by itself. But the act in question was one which so far from being forbidden by the common law, was one cherished and protected by all its provisions. The power of going where we pleased, was the exercise of our personal liberty, a boon which altho' given by nature was secured and protected by the common law—and if the act complained of was wrong, still the penalty asked was not a common law penalty, but an arbitrary punishment denounced by the statute, which statute was unknown to the common law. The common law therefore gives no remedy for the recovery of this bond, and the remedy sought must be considered as a statutory remedy.
But in the case of an individual, if he asks for the statutory remedy, it must be shown that the bond and the statute accord, or it will be denied to him—So too, here this bond and the statute must be compared, and if they disagree, the statutory remedy will be denied. The statutory remedy, however, is the only remedy in the case of a statutory bond given to a publick officer—and want of remedy and want of right being said to be the same—if there be no remedy, there is no right, and the bond itself is void.
A difference was also stated between bonds taken under the common law, and those taken by directions of some statute. In the former case, it was said, if the bond contained several conditions, some of which were legal and others illegal, the common law would satisfy itself, by rejecting the improper, and preserving the proper parts of the instrument, according to its well known maxim, utile per inutile non vitatur . But in the latter case, the statute having prescribed not only the end to be attained, but the means of attaining it, it was equally a departure from the legislative will to change the means as the end. In support of this, several cases were referred to, and particularly the strong language of an English Judge, who, speaking upon this subject, says, that the common law is a kind mother, which, while she checks and punishes our vices, fosters and encourages our virtues; but the statute law speaks the language of a tyrant, Sic volo sic jubeo , and punishes every departure from its prescribed forms.
Having established the principle contended for, the counsel for the defendants then applied it. It was stated, that the only statute which prescribed a bond in the case of a licensed vessel, was the 4th section of the act of congress, passed the 18th February, 1793, and entitled an act, &c. which section is in these words:—"Sec. IV. In order to the licensing of any ship or vessel, for carrying on the
trading trade or fisheries, the husband, or master, or owner, together with the master thereof, with one or more sureties to the satisfaction of the collector granting the same, shall become bound to pay to the United States, if such ship or vessel be of the burthen of five tons, and less than twenty tons, the sum of one hundred dollars; and if twenty tons, and not exceeding thirty tons, the sum of two hundred dollars; and if above thirty tons, and not exceeding sixty tons, the sum of five hundred dollars; and if above sixty tons, the sum of one thousand dollars, in case it shall appear, within two years from the date of the bond, that such ship or vessel has been employed in any trade, whereby the revenue of the United States has been defrauded during the time the license granted to such ship or vessel remained in force; and the master of such ship or vessel shall also swear, or affirm, that he is a citizen of the United States, and that such license shall not be used for any other vessel, or any other employment, than that, for which it is specially granted, or in any trade or business, whereby the revenue of the United States may be defrauded; and if such ship or vessel be less than twenty tons burthen, the husband or managing owner shall swear or affirm, that she is wholly the property of a citizen or citizens of the United States; whereupon it shall be the duty of the collector of the district comprehending the port, where to such ship or vessel may belong, (the duty of six cents per ton being first paid) to grant a license."
A bond taken in pursuance of this law, can only be forfeited by the vessel being employed in some trade, whereby the revenue of the United States has been defrauded; and this too, during the time the license granted to such vessel, remained in force.—But, by the condition of this bond, its penalty is forfeited if the forbidden act be done, not only during the time the license granted, remained in force, but during the time for which the license is granted; that is, during one year. The forfeiture, therefore, is created upon an event which the law does not regard. It is made to depend, not merely upon the validity of the license, but also upon the continuance of the time for which the license was granted.
To illustrate the truth of this remark, the counsel referred to the third section of the same act, whereby it is provided that the collector may register any ship or vessel which has been enrolled and licensed, upon such enrollment and license being given up. Suppose now that a vessel enrolled and licensed for one year, in conformity to this law, should, during the continuance of that year, surrender her enrollment and license, and take a register in pursuance of its third section, above referred to; after having done this, but within the year, she should be employed in some trade, whereby the revenue of the United States should be defrauded. A bond, taken in pursuance of the statute, would not be forfeited, because the act was not done during the time the license remained in force. But this bond would be forfeited, because the act was done during the time for which the license was granted; that is, within the year. The bond and the statute there do not agree.
The further to prove the variance of the bond in question, and the law which authorized it, it was insisted by the counsel, that if you would expunge from the bond the terms, "for which is granted, or" then the condition would strictly conform to the statute, and would read in the very words of the law, thus: "In case it shall appear within two years from the date hereof, that the said schooner has been employed in any trade whereby the revenue of the United States has been defrauded during the time the license aforesaid remains in force." But by retaining these words, you introduce into the bond a condition which is not in the law, and make the forfeiture to depend, not only upon "the time during which the license remains in force," (the sole condition fixed by the statute) but also upon "the time for which it is granted;" which is a contingency altogether distinct from, and in addition to the other.
It was argued further, that the bond in question, not only, did not pursue the form prescribed by the statute, but that the condition inserted in it, impliedly was forbidden, and would destroy the whole symmetry of the coasting trade. The system as it now stands, is harmonious in all its parts, the lesser penalties are imposed on the lesser offences, and the higher punishments inflicted upon the lesser crimes. But if this bond be effectual, the lesser punishment would be inflicted upon the higher offence. For example—By the fifth section of the same law, it is provided that no license shall be considered "in force any longer than such ship or vessel is owned, and of the description set forth in such license, and for carrying on any other business or employment, but that for which it was granted," &c. Comparing the fourth section which directs the bonds, with this section, you perceive that the pecuniary penalty stated in the bond is upon the party, so long as his license remains in force. But whenever he departs on a foreign voyage the license ceases to be in force, and then the forfeiture of the vessel and cargo is demanded, as the punishment.—For all acts done under the license, the bond is the security; for all acts done after the license has ceased to be obligatory, higher punishments are relied
upon. The United States have given a practical exposition of this part of the law, by causing the schooner Caroline to be forfeited and sold under it, and her proceeds are now probably in their treasury, constituting a part of that surplus fund, the appropriation of which distresses our rulers so much; and if the bond be forfeited likewise, we shall have not only to suffer what our laws direct, but what our collectors require.
As therefore the law does not authorize this condition, but so far from authorizing it, has expressly provided for the case in another way, this condition cannot be considered as being in conformity with the statute which requires the bond, and therefore the bond is void.
It is of no consequence, said the counsel, that there is one other condition in this bond, which is in pursuance of the statute—It is of no consequence that the suit is brought for a breach of this other condition—The bond, which is a statutory bond taken by a publick officer contains one condition against law, and it is a single act; therefore, the whole bond is void.
2. But if the bond be valid, still this action is not maintainable—To give a right of recovery, there must not only be a good bond, but a well-assigned breach of that bond stated in the plaintiffs declaration—The breach assigned here (which by the bye is the only breach which could be assigned) is, "That the said schooner Caroline during the time, &c. was employed in a trade whereby the revenue of the United States was defrauded," &c.—(See the breach assigned in first part of this report.) The question then to be decided by the court is, is it an act of fraud against the tonnage duties of the United States for an enrolled and licensed vessel to be employed in a foreign voyage?
To maintain this proposition it must be shewn, first, that an enrolled and licensed vessel engaging in a foreign voyage, is subject to any tonnage duty; and secondly, that the non-payment of such duty has been owing to an act of fraud. For if there is no duty demandable, the non-payment of any, cannot be an act of fraud—Or if there is a duty demandable, and this duty has not been paid, owing to the mistake of the officers of the customs in not exacting enough—this may be an act for which their bonds may be forfeited, but certainly is not an act of fraud whereby this penalty is to be incurred by us.
The defendants counsel stated, that they should contend for the negative of both propositions—and would prove that an enrolled vessel which had been employed in a foreign voyage, without surrendering her enrollment, was not subject to any tonnage duties—or if subject to any, was subjected to the highest duties imposed by the law—and, therefore, that her engaging in a foreign voyage, so far from defrauding the revenue of the United States, was actually benefiting that revenue by the difference between the highest and lowest duties.
To shew that an enrolled or licensed vessel employed in the foreign trade, was subject to no tonnage duties, it was contended, that the eighth section of the act concerning the enrolling and licensing vessels engaged in the coasting trade—2 vol. Laws U. S. p. ; it was provided, that if any such vessel engaged in any foreign trade, without previously surrendering her enrollment and license, and taking a register, such vessel and her cargo should be subject to seizure and forfeiture. In this case this penalty had actually been enforced. Surely then it will not be contended, that duties are demandable upon a subject which belonged to the United States themselves, the instant it arrived within their limits—That having stripped the individual of his property, by forfeiture, the United States were entitled to punish him farther, by making him enhance the value of the property in paying duties upon it? Such an idea was monstrous in itself, but would appear infinitely more oppressive, when it was recollected, that such a construction of the law must inevitably make the quantum of punishment to depend, not upon the law, but the will of the collector. For if the collector seized the vessel before she had entered, then no duties were demandable, because the duties were only payable upon her entry, and in that case, no entry could be made. But if he postponed his service until after the entry was completed, then he would exact duties and forfeiture both. The punishment, therefore, not only depends upon the will of the collector, but such a construction is actually holding out a premium to a publick officer to forbear to do his duty promptly; it invites him to forbear to assert the rights of the United States, until his own fees of office and commissions are increased and secured. But this certainly cannot be supposed consistent with the spirit of our laws, which, so far from extending the provisions of the common law, upon the subject of forfeitures, have actually limited and restricted them in many particulars.
But if tonnage duties are demandable from a forfeited vessel, still the question recurs, what is the amount of such duties demandable from an enrolled vessel engaged in the foreign trade. For if it can be shewn that, by engaging in this trade, an enrolled vessel, actually subjects herself to higher duties than otherwise would be demandable of her, so far from defrauding the revenue by so engaging in this trade, she is benefitting it. In that case it will not be the act of engaging in foreign trade that has injured the revenue, but some other act, by

means of which the parties have screened themselves from the payment of what was properly demandable from them. But such an act is not stated in this declaration as the cause of the forfeiture of this bond, nor could it have been stated, since it has not happened.
By the laws of the United States different duties are imposed upon different vessels—a duty of six cents per ton is imposed upon a vessel of the United States—of 30 cents per ton on a recorded vessel—of 50 cents per ton upon all other vessels—See Laws of U. S. 2 vol. page
Now what is a vessel of the United States? Not one built in the United States merely, for a recorded vessel is built in the United States, and yet is distinguished throughout all our laws from a vessel of the United States, properly so called, and is so distinguished in this very act by being compelled to pay a tonnage duty of 30 cents, while a vessel of the United States pays but 6 cents per ton—not a vessel owned by citizens of the United States merely, for every sea-lettered vessel is so owned, and yet is subjected to the payment of foreign tonnage—not a vessel built in the United States and owned by its citizens merely, for this is the case with many sea-lettered vessels which as has been stated are yet subject to foreign tonnage—What then is a vessel of the United States? The act of congress concerning the registering and recording of ships or vessels answers this question in its own words—See Laws of the United States, 2 vol. page “a ship or vessel duly registered and no other.” such a vessel and none other says that law is entitled to the benefits and privileges of a vessel of the United States. An enrolled vessel therefore is not considered as a vessel of the United States, and is subject to foreign tonnage unless she brings herself within the exception of the second section of that law. But this exception is limited to licensed vessels while employed in the trade for which they are licensed—an enrolled vessel altho’ licensed is not therefore within the exception whilst employed in the foreign trade, and consequently is subjected to the duty of 50 cents per ton.
Now has the Caroline by engaging in the foreign trade, without a register, thereby subjecting herself to a duty of 50 cents per ton, when if she had taken a register, she would have been subjected to a duty of 6 cents per ton only, defrauded the revenue of the United States? No one can answer affirmatively, but one, who is prepared to prove that 50 is less than 6.—The act itself of engaging in the foreign trade is not, therefore, one by which an enrolled vessel defrauds the tonnage revenue of the United States; since precisely the opposite effect is produced by it—And since this is the only act stated, or which can be stated whereby detriment to the revenue has been sustained, the breach is not well assigned and that action must fall.
The argument of this cause succeeded that which had been made in the suit between the same parties upon the bond of enrolment. [See our last paper.] At its conclusion, similar remarks were made by the district attorney to those formerly stated in that case. The cause was thereupon continued until a subsequent day, or the term; when this cause, together with several others depending upon like bonds, was dismissed by the District Attorney, with the consent of the defendant’s counsel.
The reporter was not present when this dismissal took place, but understood that the Judge would have decided in favour of the defendants, and have sustained the demurrer, if the suit had not been dismissed.
The United States } In debt. Blair and others. }
This was an action of debt brought to recover nine thousand and forty dollars, the penalty of a bond taken under the embargo law. The declaration after reciting the condition of the bond which was in these words, “Whereas the following goods, wares and merchandise, that is to say 200 barrels of flour, 15 boxes of candles, and 200 barrels of navy bread as per manifest, now delivered to the Collector of the Customs of the District of Norfolk and Portsmouth, and are intended to be transported in the said vessel called the Eliza, burthen 94 tons, to the port of New Orleans; now the condition of the above obligation is such, that if the above mentioned goods, wares, and merchandise, shall be re-landed in the United States at the port of New Orleans aforesaid, or at some other port of the United States, the danger of the seas excepted, then the above obligation to be void, otherwise to remain in full force”—averred a breach as follows, “that the condition as aforesaid of the said writing obligatory hath been violated, in this, that the said goods, wares and merchandise have never been landed in the said United States, at the said port of New Orleans, or at any other port of the United States.”
The defendants pleaded severally—1st, non est factum; 2d, non infregit—generally; 3d, that the goods had not been all landed at New Orleans, or at some other port of the United States, “by reason of the dangers of the seas.” 4th, That by the act of God, and inevitable necessity, the defendants had been prevented from re-landing the said goods, &c. at New Orleans, or at some other port of the United States. A general replication was put in, to each of those pleas, and issues were made up thereon, and a jury sworn to try these issues.
The case having been opened by the counsel for the U. S. the counsel for the defendants then addressed the jury—he stated that although several pleas had been filed, he would have occasion to call their attention to the first only, which denied the execution of the bond; he was instructed to say that the following facts would appear in evidence.
That the defendants on applying to the Custom-house officers, to obtain a clearance for the vessel, were informed that no bonds had been then prepared, in conformity to the late embargo law, that at the request of the officers of the Custom-house, they thereupon wrote on a blank paper their respective names, over which it was intended that a formal bond should be afterwards made out, as the act of congress required, that the penalty of the bond should be equal to double the amount of the vessel and cargo, an estimate of which was made by the officer of the Customs, and assented to by the defendants, that the estimate was made on the paper subscribed by the defendants, and made the penalty something more than six thousand dollars, which was to be inserted as the penalty of the bond, when it came to be made out. This paper having been accidentally written upon by some person in the Custom house, that part of it on which the estimate was made, had been torn off and lost. That some months afterwards, one of the clerks of the Custom-house wrote out the bond, and affixed scrolls to the respective signatures. In order to ascertain the penalty, an enquiry was made by the officer of the Customs of the person by whom one moiety of the vessel had been sold, many months before the embargo was laid, and the price of that moiety was assumed as a means, for ascertaining the true value of the vessel, at the time of clearance. That ex parte enquiries had also been made by the Custom-house officers of the value of the cargo. By these means an estimate had been made, which greatly exceeded that originally agreed on, and the bond was filled up without the assent or knowledge of the principal or securities, with nine thousand and forty dollars, instead of the sum of six thousand and — dollars, or thereabouts, which had been agreed on.
A clerk to the custom-house, who was the subscribing witness to the bond, was examined as a witness for the United States, he stated nearly to the following effect:
That the defendants came to clear out the schooner, shortly after the passage of the embargo law, and before any blank forms of bonds were in the custom house. That an estimate of the value of the vessel and cargo was made, and assented to by the defendants, and the amount put down upon a blank sheet of paper, at the bottom of which the defendants put their signatures. That some person in the custom house, not knowing the intention of the signatures, wrote on that part of the paper, on which the estimate was made, and tore it off, whereby it was lost, and the amount was not recollected exactly, by the witness. That about two months after the vessel had sailed, the witness wrote out the bond; the amount of the penalty was filled up by the witness not in the presence, nor with the consent of the defendants, and the amount was not the same, to which the defendants had assented, at the time of the execution of the blank. That the witness regulated himself in filling up the penalty, by informing himself from the former owner, the price for which a moiety of the vessel had been sold some time before, and before the embargo was laid, and as to the cargo, by the current price of such articles, as it consisted of, when the vessel sailed. This was upon the information of two merchants the witness taking the average prices according to their information. The witness believed the penalty was more than the amount of the original estimate. As to the seals the witness believed, but could not be positive, that they were affixed by him, in presence of the defendants, being scrolls. That his reason for so believing, arose from it being his practice to affix seals when bonds were signed.
The defendants counsel cited Shep. Touchstone 55. Comyns Dig. Tit. Fait. Verdict and judgment for the defendants. HAY District Attorney for the United States. TAYLOR, for the Defendants.
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Thursday, December 22.
FOREIGN LICENSES.
Mr. Nixon reported a bill “to deprive in certain cases vessels of their American character and to prevent under certain difficulties any citizen of the United States taking a license from any foreign power to navigate the ocean or to trade with any other foreign and independent power.”
[The first section of this bill provides that every ship or vessel which sailed for a foreign port or place on or before the day 1809 shall, in case such ship or vessel shall not return to some port or place on or before the day of 1809, forfeit and lose all the benefits and privileges appertaining to a ship or vessel of the United States, &c. Provided, such vessel be not detained by capture or by an embargo, and when so detained shall return so soon as released.
The second section provides that if any citizen of the United States, shall solicit, take, accept or use to suffer any person acting under his or her authority to solicit, take, accept or use a license or permission procured from any foreign power whatsoever for his or her vessel to pass or to trade with any other foreign and independent power, such person shall be considered as having committed a high offence—
forfeited the right and privilege of owning or navigating ever afterwards any vessel pursuant to the laws of the United States. This section to commence and be in operation from and after the day of 1809.]
The bill was twice read and referred to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Gardiner, after a few prefatory observations, in which he stated his wish to obtain a direct decision on the question of the embargo, and his anxiety and that of his constituents, that it should be repealed, and that the parting word from his neighbours was “for God’s sake take off the embargo before you return,” proposed the following resolution:
Resolved, That the acts laying an embargo on all the ships and vessels within the ports and harbours of the United States and the several acts supplementary thereto, be repealed on the first of February next.
The Speaker declared this motion to be out of order, as a similar motion was already before a committee of the whole.
ENFORCING THE EMBARGO.
A bill from the Senate for enforcing and making effectual the embargo laws, was read the first time. It was then read the second time—Ayes 79—and referred to a committee of the whole.
On the question for what day it should be the order, Monday the most distant day, was negatived—55 to 47.
To-morrow and Saturday were then named. The question must by the rules of the House be taken on the most distant day. Mr. Quincy called for the yeas and nays on the question whether it should be postponed till Saturday.
On this motion a short but warm discussion arose, in which Messrs. Smilie, Eppes and Bacon opposed the postponement, as it would serve no purpose but to delay enforcing the measure; and Messrs. Gardener, Elliot, Quincy, Livermore, Sloan, Lyon, Macon, and Dana, supported the postponement till Saturday, in order to give time for full consideration and examination of the bill. Messrs. Gardener, Elliot, Quincy, Livermore, Lyon and Sloan, denounced the principles of the bill itself.
It was made the order of the day for Saturday in preference to Monday—61 to 58.
SEAMEN AND MARINES.
On motion of Mr. Nelson, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Mr. PITKIN in the chair, on the bill authorising the President of the United States to employ an additional number of seamen and marines. To the same committee was referred the bill from the Senate to fit out all the frigates, &c.
Mr. Nelson stated that the President had already authority to fit out the vessels of the United States, but was authorised to employ but 1,425 seamen.—It was now proposed to fit out 171 gun-boats, and ten small vessels of war, for which purpose 2,000 seamen and marines, and proportionate midshipmen and corporals were wanted.
Mr. Story moved that the present bill lie on the table in order to take up the bill from the Senate.—Negatived 53 to 38.
Mr. Newton moved to insert 4,440 seamen, wishing at this time to strengthen the Executive arm, to give authority to employ all our vessels. Negatived—Ayes 56.
It was agreed to insert 2,000—Ayes 71.
The principle of the bill was supported by Messrs. Varnum, Newton, Nelson and Story, and opposed by Messrs. Macon, Holland and D. R. Williams.
It was argued on the one hand that the nation should be placed in a complete state of defence, and all the active force of the nation be called into action; and on the other, in addition to the general arguments against naval force, that the present embargo and non-intercourse system was at variance with a system of active preparation; that if one be adopted, the other is unnecessary.
The blank for the appropriation was filled with $1,649,895 58.
The committee rose and reported the bill; and obtained leave to sit again on the bill from the Senate—Ayes 61.
Friday, December 23.
SALT.
Mr. Burwell offered the following resolution: Resolved, That it is expedient to enquire into the extent to which the article of salt is or can be supplied from the salt establishments within the United States; and that effectual means be immediately taken to procure a supply equal to our consumption.
Mr. B. observed that it would be perceived by the House that the object he had in view was to enquire into the capacity of the United States, to produce an article of our consumption so essential that it could not be dispensed with. He believed it to be a fact that in some parts of the United States salt existed to a great extent; that in the Western country there were saline springs which produced better salt than that imported. In the state of New York particularly he had been informed that salt was sold at those salines at one dollar per bbl. of five bushels. The reason why so much had heretofore been imported was that vessels going to Liverpool with our heavy produce, brought back salt as ballast. He did not believe that the scarcity of this article spoken of by the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Livermore) the other day did exist. The quantity in the country was found by the speculators far to exceed that spoken of; and the ascertaining this fact had arrested their operations—salt having fallen in Baltimore to 80 or 85 cents per bushel.
On the suggestion of Mr. Pitkin, the resolution was referred to the committee of commerce and manufactures.
Mr. Livermore’s proposition on the subject of salt, laid on the table a few days ago, was referred to the same committee.
SEAMEN AND MARINES.
The house took up the report of the committee of the whole on the bill authorising the President of the United States to employ an additional number of seamen and marines.
The question being put on concurrence with the committee in filling the blank with 2000 privates, Mr. Newton called for the yeas and nays on it, wishing to strike it out for the purpose of inserting 4440. The house concurred with the committee, 77 to 29.
The question on the bill’s going to a third reading was decided—Yeas 93—Nays 17. It was ordered to be read a third time to-day.
ORDERS AND DECREES.
The following message was received from the President of the United States:
To the House of Representatives of the United States. According to the request of the House of Representatives, in their resolution of Nov. 11, that copies should be laid before them of all acts, decrees, orders and proclamations affecting the commercial rights of neutral nations, issued or enacted by G. Britain and France, or any other belligerent power, since the year 1791, and also of an act placing the commerce of America, in English ports, upon the footing of the most favoured nation, I now transmit them a report of the Secretary of State, of such of them as have been attainable in the department of state, and are supposed to have entered into the views of the House of Representatives.
TII: JEFFERSON. December 23, 1808.
Gazette Marine Memoranda.
ARRIVED. British ship Richard, Paxton, 60 days from Liverpool, Salt, Alexander Maclure. Left, the ships Mark and Abigail, for Boston, in 2 or 3 days; Eliza, for New-York, the 1st November; Philipsburgh, for ditto, the 9th November.
FOR CHARLESTON, The Schooner HELEN, Captain PEARSON, hourly expected from Richmond. For passage (having excellent accommodations) apply to
Richard Drummond, & Co. Dec 30.
AT PRIVATE SALE, 4,000 bushels Turk’s-Island SALT, 20 hds. LOAF SUGAR. By Sol: Marks, jr. Dec 30.
TO RENT, AND POSSESSION GIVEN IMMEDIATELY, The House & Store, No. 64, Main street, NEXT DOOR TO DR. JEFFERY’S, Lately occupied by John Fry—It has two rooms below stairs, three above, and a garret, as also a kitchen underneath. LIKEWISE, Two Houses on Bank-Street. For terms enquire of Robert Farmar, WHO HAS TO HIRE, For the ensuing year, sundry NEGROES. Men, Women, Boys, and Girls. Dec 30.
VIRGINIA BANK STOCK.
WANTED TO PURCHASE, VIRGINIA BANK STOCK, For which Cash will be given—Application to be made to the SECRETARY of the MARINE INSURANCE COMPANY. JOHN GRANBERRY, President Office of the Marine Insurance Company of Norfolk, Dec 14.
The Few Holders and Members of Christ Church are requested to meet on Saturday at 12 o’clock, at said Church, on business of importance. Dec 28.
NOTICE.
THE CO-PARTNERSHIP OF Doctors BROWN & MOSELEY, Will be dissolved on the 14th of January next—Those having claims against the concern are requested to present them for settlement, and those indebted will please make payment on or before the 1st of February next. James Brown, Basset Moseley. Dec 28.
The CARGO of the British Schooner Commerce, captain Collins, consisting of COFFEE and SUGAR. For Sale by C. & F. Whittle. Dec. 5.
To Masters, Mates, and Mariners.
INFORMATION WANTED.
THE SCHOONER EXPERIMENT, ROBERT LAWRENCE, Master, Sailed from Norfolk, in Virginia, some time in the month of February, 1806, bound on a voyage to Rio Janario, and River of Plate, in South-America. Information has been lately received that the said schooner was at the Island of Goree on the Coast of Africa, some time in April of the same year, from which she departed the day after her arrival there, and has not been heard of since, by information that can be relied on. Various reports have been received, that the said schooner did arrive at the River of Plate, and was there trading.—It is presumed that if the vessel went from Goree to Rio Janario, and from thence to River of Plate, that there are many persons in the United States, who have seen the said schooner, or master, at one or both of those places. The Schooner was on her first voyage, Virginia built, of about 95 tons, coppered to light water mark, and had the appearance of a remarkable fast sailing vessel. Robert Lawrence is an Englishman by birth, born in the Isle of Thanet in the County of Kent, about 47 years of age, 5 feet 9 inches high, a stout man, inclined to be fat, of a ruddy complexion, and talks much. Any person who can give information respecting the above vessel and master, or either, will do a singular service in communicating it to THOMAS FITZSIMMONS, Esq. President of the Delaware Insurance Company, of Philadelphia; JOHN COFIN JONES, Esq. of Boston, or to the Subscriber. JOHN GRANBERRY, President of the Marine Insurance Company of Norfolk. Norfolk, November 23, 1808.
[The Editors of the following papers are desired to insert this advertisement three times a week for six weeks in their respective papers, and transmit their accounts to the Office of the Publick Ledger, viz. North American and American, Baltimore; United States Gazette and Aurora, Philadelphia; New-York Gazette and Citizen, New-York; Boston Gazette, Boston; American, Providence (R.I.) Gazette, Salem; Gazette of Maine, Portland; and the Courier of Charleston.]
Newcomb’s Packet, will sail for New-York on Sunday next. Dec. 28.

For Freight or Charter, TO NEW-YORK OR BOSTON, The Schooner CORNELIA, Captain Fash, will take freight for either the above ports, provided sufficient quantity offers to make it an object. For terms, apply on board at MacIntire's wharf. December 24.
BRIG MOSES MYERS. NOTICE. —All those who had an interest in the American Brig Moses Myers, captured by the French in the year 1800, on a voyage from Madeira to Norfolk, and re-captured by the British privateer Rover, and carried into Halifax, Nova Scotia, by applying to the subscriber, will receive their proportion of the funds collected from the receptors, by the agents of the claimants, according to a decree of the high court of appeals in Great Britain. Robert Maitland. November 4.
FOR SALE, By the Subscriber, on Reasonable Terms, 10,000 wt. Prime Green COFFEE, in casks, 20,000 wt. good quality, do. in bags, 5,000 do. do. COCOA, do. 450 boxes Brown Havana SUGARS, 150 do. White do. 100 barrels first quality Muscovado do. 8 bds. second do. 65 puncheons Antigua, Grenada and St. Kitts RUM, 96 bds. Martinique and St. Kitts MOLASSES, 40 bds. TENERIFFE WINE, 50 qr. casks do. do. 8 pipes London Particular MADEIRA WINE, 8000 bushels Liverpool SALT, 45 barrels New-England RUM, 90 barrels MACKAREL, 5 tons CORDAGE a-sorted, 50 barrels BEEF, 50 do. PORK, New-York Inspection, 100 boxes COD FISH, 50 DEMIJOHNS, 100 GIN CASES, 2 cases GIN JUGS, 50 pieces HOLLAND DUCK, 150 cases Bordeaux CLARET, 10 cases OLD HOCK, 50 bds. Richmond TOBACCO, 2,600 barrels Superfine Mayo FLOUR. Moses Myers. Dec. 24.
FOUR DOLLARS REWARD. Lost from the ship Martin , on the 10th instant, A YAWL, White bottom and yellow mouldings, with the name of the ship on her stern. The above reward will be given to any person who will return the boat to the ship, or deliver her to Christopher Fry. December 24.
MACKINDER & WHITE, OFFER FOR SALE, FOR CASH OR APPROVED NOTES, 2000 barrels NAVAL STORES, 28 bds. New-England COTTON, 62 barrels APPLE BRANDY, 8 bds. Richmond TOBACCO, 20 hogsheads York-River, do. 24 bds. Petersburg, do. 100 barrels Smithfield and Carolina PORK, 22 pipes HOLLAND GIN, 9 pipes COUNTRY GIN, 100 boxes FRESH IMPERIAL } TEAS. and GUNPOWDER 40 boxes YOUNG HYSON } And 500 bds. Fresh Alexandria Superfine FLOUR ALSO, A General Assortment of DRY GOODS, suitable to the Season. Nov. 14.
Phoenix Fire-Office, Norfolk. NOTICE. The following Policies issued from this Office expire in the month of December, viz.  233.69 233.174  70 175  171 176  172 177  173 178  Richard Taylor, Agent. Dec. 10.
FOR SALE, By the Subscriber, 50 GERS RICE; 30 bales COTTON. GEORGE RAINCOCK. Dec. 16.
To be Hired out from 1st of January. A WOMAN, who is an excellent washer and house servant generally, and a good plain cook.—Apply to the Editor of the Ledger. Dec. 14.
TURKS ISLAND SALT. 3000 bushels Turks Island Salt now on board the brig Alert , captain Hatchard, from Turks Island, for sale by William Pennock. Dec. 21.
FOR SALE, On board the sloop Merit , at Campbell's Wharf, Stone Lime, and first quality English Hay, brought under deck. —The said SLOOP will take freight for any port in the Chesapeake.—Apply to the master on board. Dec. 21.
The CARGO of the British Brig Mearns , from St. Kitts—Consisting of Prime SUGAR and MOLASSES, For Sale, by C. & F. Whittle. Dec. 5.
The Members of the Dismal Swamp Company, are requested to meet at Suffolk on the 28th of December. That place is preferred for a meeting, because it is a very small distance from the land, and the members will have a better opportunity of information as to the whole business of the company than at any other place.—Those who may not attend will be pleased to give powers to others to act for them. William Nelson, } Managers. John Bracken, } Corbin Griffin, } Dec. 2.
Phoenix Fire Office, No. 13, MARKET-SQUARE, NORFOLK.
INSURANCE UPON SHIPS. NOTICE is hereby given that the following premiums only, will hereinafter be charged by this company for insurance from fire upon Ships, Vessels, and all Water Crafts, and also upon Cargo on board, in the seaports and rivers of Virginia and North-Carolina.
 One month 12 1/2 cents per $100  Two do. 20 do.  Three do. 25 do.  Four do. 30 do.  Five do. 35 do.  Six do. 40 do.  Seven do. 45 do.  Eight do. 50 do.  Nine do. 55 do.  Ten do. 60 do.  Eleven do. 65 do.  Twelve do. 70 do. 
The above premiums will be charged for any sum not exceeding 40,000 dollars in one risk; but a separate sum must in all cases be specified on the ship and another on the cargo. Richard Taylor, Agent. Dec. 19.
DR. ROBERTSON'S Celebrated Stomachick Elixir of Health. Which has proved by experience, to be the most valuable medicine, ever yet offered to the publick for curing the Gout, Cramp, and wind in the Stomach; also a certain cure for the Dysentery, or Bloody Flux, Cholera Morbus, severe Gripings, and all other diseases of the bowels, a dose never fails to remove a cold if taken soon after its first appearance. It is also celebrated for carrying off superfluous bile, removing habitual costiveness, sickness at the stomach, feverish head aches, &c. &c. The following certificates are selected from the many respectable ones lately received by the proprietor, and are now in his possession. Certificate of Mr. William Julion, carpenter and builder, No. 69, South Fifth-Street, Philadelphia. SIR—My wishes to promote the interest of superlative merit, and to afford consolation to the afflicted, induces me to request you will lay my case before the publick, as an irrefragable proof of the astonishing efficacy of Dr. Robertson's invaluable Stomachick Elixir of Health. I do hereby certify, that I was seized most violently with the dysentery, or bloody flux, which reduced me to such a state that I was confined to my bed, and became so weak that I could not move without assistance. My situation at that time became seriously alarming, as no relief could be obtained, I was given over, and even death would have been desirable to me, had not a friend of mine, who by chance called to see me, who had just recovered from a similar complaint, though not so severe as mine. He informed me that he was cured by taking Dr. Robertson's Stomachick Elixir of Health, and advised me to send to you for a bottle. I immediately did so, and by following your instructions given with the bottle, before I had taken half a bottle, I found myself much relieved, and my disorder greatly abated, and by continuing to take it, in one week I was able to walk out, and in less than a fortnight was able to attend to my business. I therefore recommend every family to be provided with this invaluable medicine, particularly those who live at a distance from the country, where assistance cannot be immediately obtained. As I am convinced that Dr. Robertson's Stomachick Elixir of Health, is the most effectual remedy in the world, I have since recommended it to several of my friends in similar complaints, who have always been relieved immediately after taking it. Should any person with to be more fully convinced of my case, I will with pleasure explain it to them by applying to me. I am with a due sense of the benefit I have received thro' the efficacy of your medicine, Sir, your humble servant, WM JULION. Mr. Dyott, Philadelphia, July 15th, 1807.
Certificate of Mr. George Stokes, South Water Street, Philadelphia. SIR—For the benefit of the afflicted, I think proper to inform you that Dr. Robertson's Elixir of Health, has been to me, of the most essential service. I had been a long time afflicted with a pain in my stomach, and continual head aches, attended with a sickness at the stomach, which brought on a vomiting and lax, which continued on me until I became in a very weak state, without being able to get any relief, until I tried one bottle of Dr. Robertson's Elixir of Health, which entirely cured my disorder, except a weakness and want of appetite, for which I have since taken Dr. Robertson's Stomachick Wine Bitters, which quite restored my strength and appetite, and I now enjoy better health than I experienced for many months before.—As I consider your medicines to have been the means of saving my life, I solicit you to publish my case for the benefit of others, who by abiding by the directions given with your invaluable medicine, will embrace the same means by which I have happily effected my recovery. I am, Sir, your obedient servant, GEORGE STOKES. Mr. Dyott, Philadelphia, August 1, 1807.
ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATES. Of Mr. John T. Solomon, Sixth near Race-Street, Philadelphia. SIR—For the good of the publick and benefit of the afflicted, I think proper to inform you, that having laboured for upwards of six months, under a very bad cough, attended with a difficulty of breathing, pains in my breast and side, and a sickness at my stomach; having lost all appetite, I became so very much reduced in my strength as to be unable to walk. I was considered in a consumption, and given up for a lost man. In this hopeless situation I had recourse to Dr. Robertson's Stomachick Elixir of Health, and to my great astonishment, before I had taken one bottle, found myself very much relieved. I expected a great quantity of phlegm, which has eased me of one of the most violent coughs that ever man had; I have taken it regularly ever since, and now find myself completely recovered, and shall certainly, for the benefit received, recommend it as far as I can, believing it to be a most efficacious medicine in the above complaint. I am, Sir, with great respect, Your obliged humble servant, JOHN T. SOLOMON. Mr. T. W. Dyott. August 22.
Certificate of Mr. John Lee, Philadelphia. DEAR SIR—By the administration of Dr. Robertson's Elixir of Health, and that the publick may be acquainted with the good effect I have received from it, I wish you to publish the following: About a fortnight ago I was seized with the influenza, or a violent cold attended with a pain in my limbs, and a violent cough, which settled on my lungs, and having been for some time before in a weakly state, I expected a consumption must soon have followed, had I not been advised to try Dr. Robertson's Elixir of Health, which has effectually removed my complaint, and I now feel better health than I have for some time before. It is impossible to say too much in favour of this invaluable medicine, as I am clearly convinced it is the most efficacious remedy ever offered to the publick, in the above complaint. I am, Sir, your obliged servant, JOHN LEE. Mr. Dyott. November 11.
The above Medicine is sold wholesale and retail by the proprietor, T. W. DYOTT, No. 11, North Second-Street, Philadelphia; and by appointment at BONSAL & CONRAD'S Book Store, Norfolk; and at SOMERVELL & CONRAD'S, Petersburg. May 23. Lawly
NOTES OF HAND, according to the new form established by the Directors of the Office of Discount and Deposit of the Bank of the United States, for sale at this office.
FALL GOODS. WOOD & HASTINGS, Have just received a general assortment of SEASONABLE GOODS, Which they will sell at very reduced prices for CASH, by Wholesale and Retail, at No. 76, Main-Street. October 19.
FOR RENT, That delightful little FARM, Belonging to the estate of David Patterson, deceased, situated on Elizabeth River and Farmer's Creek, adjoining the land of the quarantine house, containing about 65 acres, the greatest part of which is cleared and fit for immediate culture; has on it a good comfortable dwelling house, kitchen, &c. for a small family, a most excellent garden, apple and peach orchard, and its convenience to the best fish, oysters, and Norfolk market, must render it desirable and valuable. For terms apply to D. R. Waddy.
ALSO, FOR RENT, A TRACT OF LAND, Containing about 260 acres, in the county of Princess Anne, adjoining the tract now advertised for sale by Mr. Tully Robinson. This tract is well timbered and well worth the attention of a good farmer, who might in a short time put it in a state of high cultivation. And for Hire, A Valuable BLACKSMITH, With a complete set of Tools. For terms apply as above, or to Capt. Thomas Calvert, near Kempsville. Dec. 12.
For SALE, or will be Bartered for Tobacco, 78 puns. choice Old Demarara RUM, James Young. October 19.
FOR SALE, The CARGO of the British brig Euphemia , from Liverpool, 210 ton Stowed SALT. Robert Dickson. Dec. 5.
For SALE, or will be Bartered, in part for Tobacco, Flour, or Naval Stores, 150,000 wt. Muscovado SUGAR, 200 bds. MOLASSES, 500 sacks Liverpool SALT, 5000 bushels Cadiz SALT, superior quality, 25 crates QUEENS WARE. James Young. October 21.
NOTICE. All persons indebted to the estate of David Patterson, deceased, are desired to make immediate payment; and those having claims to render them properly attested, to D. R. WADDEY, Adm'r. Nov. 16.
FRESH GOODS. WOOD AND HASTINGS, Have just received, Cambricks and Common Callicoes, Cotton Stiggins, Cotton Cambricks, Irish Linens, Long Lawns, Linen Cambricks, &c. A few pieces of best London Superfine Broad CLOTHS, and most fashionable Coat BUTTONS, which with their Goods on hand, will be sold at very low prices for Cash. September 9.
A BARGAIN OFFERED, In a fine and Valuable FARM, in the County of Princess Anne. THE Subscriber is disposed to sell his Plantation called LEVEL GREEN, situated in the county of Princess Anne. It contains about 500 acres; and, as it may be advantageously divided into two or three Farms, the subscriber will accommodate a purchaser, in selling either the whole or a part. He will also give a long credit. This tract of Land is certainly the most desirable in the county, lying on the Eastern branch of Elizabeth River, and distant from Norfolk Market only five or six miles by water, and 8 or 9 by land.—The soil is excellent, about one half of the tract being cleared land, and fit for immediate culture, the other heavily timbered with Oak, Pine, Ash, and Hickory.—It has also the advantage of several good landings.—Any one disposed to view the land, and to purchase, may apply, in the absence of the subscriber, to JAMES ROBINSON, or JOHN READ, who reside in the neighborhood. Tully Robinson. Dec. 7.
NOTICE. All persons indebted to the estate of Alexander Macauley, deceased, formerly of York Town, are again called upon for settlement of their debts.—Suits will be commenced against all debtors indiscriminately. Thomas Griffin, Surviving trustee of Alex. Macauley, dec. York-Town, Dec. 7, 1808.
Norfolk Borough, At a quarterly session court held the 28th day of November, 1808. The Marine Insurance Company of Norfolk, } Against } Felix Corran, Michael Corran, Noble and } In Chancery. Arbutnott, & co. and Theodrick Armitstead, } Defendants. THE defendant Felix Corran not having entered his appearance and given security according to the act of assembly and the rules of this court, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the court that he is not an inhabitant of this commonwealth, on the motion of the plaintiffs by their counsel, it is ordered that the said defendant Felix Corran do appear here on the fourth Monday in February next and answer the bill of the plaintiffs, and that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in one of the newspapers printed in this Borough for eight weeks successively, and it is further ordered that the defendants Michael Corran, Noble and Arbutnott, & co. and Theodrick Armitstead, who have effects of the said Felix Corran in their hands do not pay, convey away or secret such effects, but retain them until the further order or decree of this court. A Copy, (Teste,) Wm. Shep, c. c. Dec. 2.
THE Cells appropriated to the reception of Male Patients in the Lunatic Hospital being all full, no more can be received until further notice. —By order of the Court of Directors, William Russ, Clerk. Williamsburg, Nov. 28. Dec 12
FOR RENT, That convenient BRICK HOUSE in Market Square, at present occupied by Mr. Fabre—it is well calculated for two Grocery Shop below, and will be nearly fitted above for the residence of families—possession given the first of January. Apply to William Armistead. Dec 14
J. & W. SOUTHGATE, OFFER FOR SALE, For Cash or short credit, at their Store, No. 1, corner of Commerce and Main-Streets, A General Assortment of GOODS, suitable to the present and approaching season; AMONG WHICH ARE, Superfine Cloths and Cassimeres, 6-4 and 7-4 coarse Cloths, Flannels, Baizes, Cratings, Thicksets, Corduroys, Blankets, Plains, Halfthicks Scarlet Cardinals, &c. &c. Kendal Cottons in assorted bales, Coarse Hats in assorted boxes, Nails and Spikes of all sizes, F and FF glazed Powder and Shot—Also, 200 good Bacon Hams, 30 kegs Lard, 50 barrels Smithfield Apple Brandy, 100 sacks Liverpool fine Salt, 60 barrels very white Allum Salt, 80 barrels good Coffee, Likewise, 2 grand and 6 small fine toned PIANO FORTES, And a handsome English made GIG and HARNESS, almost new September 21.
FOR SALE In our Ware-House, where the largest vessel can come along side, 15,000 bushels of CORN, 2000 do. do. white, 30 bales Cotton. Also, 4000 bushels coarse SALT, 150 sacks Ground Allum do. 45 hogsheads old Antigua Rum, do. Jamaica do. 40 hogsheads Sugar, 80 barrels do. A few casks excellent Port Wine, Coffee in hogsheads, Madeira Wine, 45 crates Earthenware, Tobacco from several inspections. GEO. MURRAY, & Co. September 9.
For SALE at my Brew-House, Strong, Table, and Ship BEER, by the hogshead, barrel, and half barrel—and a constant supply of bottled PORTER in packages and by the dozen. And in Store, Wines, Liquors, and Groceries, wholesale and retail. Joseph Hayes. Feb. 13.
TO BE RENTED, AND POSSESSION GIVEN IMMEDIATELY, Several TENEMENTS in the town of Portsmouth.—They will be let at REDUCED PRICES, provided good tenants can be had. Also that desirable little FARM, the COTTAGE, near the Town.—The House will be in good repair, and the land is rich. William Leigh. Dec. 5.
FOR SALE, 3000 bushels Turk's-Island SALT, Now on board the Sloop Juliana , Capt. Stowe. Also, 21,000 feet MAHOGANY, A few puncheons Old Antigua Rum, New do. Molasses, Sugars, Indian Meal in barrels. John Granbery. September 21.
Boot and Shoe Manufactory. SAMUEL COLEMAN, Opposite the Market, (westward) has received by captain Hand, from Philadelphia, a quantity of the Highest Priced Boot Legs, Vamps, Tops, and other Materials, for his Factory.—He has also Sole Leather, which has been in tan seven years; with these, the best workmen he can get, and the greatest care and punctiliousness, he believes the people of this place and its vicinity, may be as well served as by any factory in the union. His Stock at present, is as good as this country can furnish, and he intends to use no other kind, the price of course must be higher, and when the Boots go the money must come, having found in a number of instances that a few days means six or twelve months, and an application—then for the money is ample cause of enmity. He has on hand a large assortment of BOOTS and SHOES. The best Boot and Shoe Makers, not only such as can, but such as will do the best work in all cases, may meet with as much encouragement in my factory, as in any in this state, for any state in the union north of this. October 3.
SALT, LONDON PORTER, &c. &c. Fresh SHOES from New-York for Ladies, of red, green, and black Morocco, with 1, 2, and 3 ties. JOURNEYMEN WANTED. The best Boot and Shoe Makers, not only such as can, but such as will do the best work in all cases, may meet with as much encouragement in my factory, as in any in this state, for any state in the union north of this. October 3.
FLOUR. FOR SALE, BY JOHN GRANBERY, AT HIS WARE-HOUSE ON COMMERCE-STREET, A small quantity of very excellent New Flour, in barrels and half-barrels, now on hand, fit for family use, and a regular supply expected from the Columbian Mills—Richmond inspection. CASH given for good new flour barrels and half-barrels. Nov. 9.
THE SUBSCRIBER Wishes to Sell, and will Sell or Rent on moderate terms, That very excellent Wharf and Lot, in the town of Gosport, at present occupied by William Smith; the Wharf, Ware Houses, and Dwelling-House are all in good repair. Thirteen Lots in the Town of Suffolk; And the following Property in Norfolk, Two good Fire-Proof Warehouses on the Eastern side of Commerce-Street, Nos. 4 and 6. Two Dwelling-Houses and Lots on Boush-street, in good repair, and very pleasantly situated. Apply to John Granbery. September 14.
NOTICE. All persons having claims against the estate of William Cary, deceased, formerly of York Town, are requested to present them to the subscriber, for settlement; and all those persons who are indebted to the estate of said Cary, are desired to make immediate settlement—No further indulgence can be allowed. Thomas Griffin, adm'r. York-Town, Dec. 7, 1808.
NORFOLK: PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A-WEEK, BY WILLIAM DAVIS, FOR THE PROPRIETOR, Opposite the Exchange Coffee-House. Price Six Dollars Yearly, in advance.