The Patowmac guardian, and Berkeley advertiser (Shepherdstown, Va. [W. Va.]), 1791-01-25 00:00:00

The PATOWMAC GUARDIAN, and BERKELEY ADVERTISER.
PRICE TWO DOLLARS PER ANN.]
T U E S D A Y, JANUARY 25, 1791.
[NUMBER II OF VOL. I.]
WHERE LIBERTY DWELLS, THERE IS MY COUNTRY.
Franklin.
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN New-Church LOTTERY.
THE following is the SCHEME OF A LOTTERY, to be drawn under an Act of the Honorable the Assembly of VIRGINIA, granting to the Trustees of the Congregation full power, by this method, to raise the sum herein proposed, for the purpose of completing their NEW MEETING-HOUSE in SHEPHERD'S-TOWN. Any of the Trustees who sign the Tickets, will be responsible to the fortunate adventurers, that the prizes drawn by them shall be paid in specie the next day after the Lottery is drawn—and that the drawing of it shall commence as soon as the Tickets are sold. There shall be in this Lottery
  1 Prize of 160 Dollars..... is.... 160   1 ditto of 80 ditto..... 80   2 ditto of 40 ditto..... 80   4 ditto of 20 ditto..... 80   8 ditto of 10 ditto..... 80   16 ditto of 5 ditto..... 80   50 ditto of 3 ditto..... 150   229 ditto of 2 ditto..... 458   The sum to be raised..... 832 
Dollars...2000
2000 Tickets at 2 Dollars each, are... 2000
In this Scheme there is little more than two BLANKS TO A PRIZE, and as it was unavoidably set on foot for the most laudable purpose, so the most ample justice may be expected, and we flatter ourselves it will meet with encouragement from every good man. The Trustees will be considered as Managers—and Col. JOSEPH SWEARINGEN, Col. WILLIAM DARKE, and Major ABRAHAM SHEPHERD, will be requested to sit as Judges at the time of drawing—which time will be published 3 weeks before it commences, in the PATOWMAC GUARDIAN AND BERKELEY ADVERTISER.
JOHN KEARSLEY, JOHN MORROW, JOHN MARK, LALLIAM BUCKLES, LOURENCE VANDEVIER, } Trustees.
N. B. Tickets may be had from any of the Managers, and also from sundry other Gentlemen in the County.
United States.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES.
[Militia-Bill under consideration]
MR. Jackson said he was sorry that his honorable friend was so determined to have two tribes of people; but he set out with that resolution and now concludes with the same idea. He then adverted to the exemption of Quakers, provided for in the bill. He said that the operation of this privilege would be to make the whole community turn Quakers and in this way it would establish the religion of that denomination, more effectually than any positive law could any persuasion whatever. He enlarged on the obligations which every man owes to society, to afford his personal services to assist and defend the community; protection and service are reciprocal. Those who are exempted ought to pay a full equivalent on every principle of justice and equity. He then adverted to exemptions generally, and advocated those of the Members of Congress; but with respect to all others, he was absolutely opposed to them; and said they were so numerous as to destroy the militia bill altogether. The consequence would be, we must resort to a standing force for the general defence.
Mr. Vining was opposed to giving the general power of making such exemptions as they please to the several States: The legislature of the Union is competent to making such as are necessary. He enlarged on the mischievous consequences of delegating this power: It will, said he, destroy every appearance of uniformity; Nor is there any danger that the members of the house will abuse this power by undue exemptions. With respect to the Quakers, he replied to some observations of Mr. Jackson, who had asked, what will become of our boasted independence in case of the exemption of the Quakers? He asked, were there no Quakers in the late war?—He adverted to the conduct of the first settlers of Pennsylvania, who were Quakers;
their peaceful principles were productive of the happiest consequences; and in this view their conduct has been an example, which, in proportion as mankind shall recede from the force of turbulent passions, will be more and more imitated. He however supposed that an equivalent might be assessed on these people, without difficulty, and which from their numbers, supposed to be one twentieth part of the people, would amount to a sum sufficient to support a militia; at least to furnish them with arms, drums, colors, &c.
Mr. Boudinot asked what is the objection of the bill? It is to provide a uniform militia, competent to the defence of the country—it is not to take money out of the pockets of the people. He then adverted to the idea that was maintained by several gentlemen, that the militia ought to consist of every person in the United States, and said that this, so far from conducing to the formation of a national defence, would prove the reverse; for it would necessarily include persons religiously scrupulous of bearing arms, men in years not able to bear them, and a great variety of characters not suitable to bear them.
With respect to exemptions he contended, that the right of Congress to make them is already conceded; for it is already agreed that the militia shall consist of persons of particular ages, consequently all under 18 and above 45 are expressly exempted; the reverse of this principle will give the states the absolute controul of the general government. He then observed that the amendment ought not to be adopted; because it would be throwing a burthen on others, which Congress ought to bear themselves; because it will destroy every idea of uniformity; because it invests a power in the states to impose fines and penalties which may operate oppressively on many descriptions of persons; because it invests the states with a power to make partial exemptions, and excite unwarrantable competitions among different classes and professions. He then adverted to the Quakers, and asked, what would become of our independence, if one thousand troops were to attack it, and we had an army of 10000 Quakers to oppose them: What dependence can be had on men, who are forced into the field? He trusted that the rights of men were so well defined at this enlightened period, that the principles which had been advanced, would not have been applied on this occasion. He entered into a defence of the exemptions generally provided for, and justified them on principles of justice and policy. He was sorry that the distinctions mentioned by the gentlemen from S. Carolina, had been brought forward. He had no idea of different tribes or classes: The members of this house at the end of every two years, revert to the mass of the people, and then become liable to bear their proportion of militia duty as well as their fellow citizens.
Mr. Madison moved to insert, among the exemptions, persons conscientiously scrupulous of bearing arms. It is the glory of our country, said he, that a more sacred regard to the rights of mankind is preserved, then has heretofore been known. The Quakers merit some attention on this delicate point, liberty of conscience: When they had it in their own power to establish their religion by law, they did not: He was disposed to make the exemption gratuitous, but supposed it impracticable. He replied to Mr. Jackson's observation, that exempting such persons would induce the people generally to turn Quakers. He did not believe that the citizens of the United States would hypocritically renounce their principles, their conscience and their God, for the sake of enjoying the exemption.
Mr. Sherman seconded this motion. He said that persons conscientiously scrupulous of bearing arms, could not be compelled to do it; for such persons will rather suffer death than commit moral evil; they may be punished it is true, by fines and penalties; but whether this would be eligible or not remains to be determined. We however have the sense of these people on the subject. He suggested whether some expedient cannot be devised to operate as an indemnity, by excusing part of the militia from a poll tax, so as to equalize the exemption, if made gratuitous.
Mr. Livermore said he disliked the whole amendment. He also disliked the bill, on several accounts, more particularly as it interfered too much with the regulations of the several states. The present proposition he thought would come in more properly in the second section.
Mr. Jackson said he was glad that the motion of the gentleman from Virginia had been brought forward; it would serve to ascertain the sentiment of the house, on this important subject. He observed, that in his opinion the gentleman has not argued with his usual ingenuity and knowledge of the human heart, in respect to the exemptions proposed in favor of the Quakers. It is too evident that mankind stand in greater dread of present evil, than of future punishment: The influence of conscience is a weak defence against the powerful temptations of
pecuniary advantages; and as he had been informed since he came to this city that one Quaker will convert ten men to quakerism, where ten of a different persuasion will not convert one Quaker: with the assistance of this law, the converts said he, will be ten times as numerous—he conceived that the natural operation of it would be to destroy the whole militia bill. He insisted on their being liable to a penalty in lieu of personal service, and enlarged on the reasonableness of paying their proportion to the general defence. He replied to Mr. Boudinot's query respecting 10,000 Quakers; they would all run away said he, and 1000 men in that case would subjugate the country.
Mr. Giles observed that he was opposed to the exemption of the Quakers, and gave his reasons; protection and personal services result from society: they are due from every individual, and it is a violation of moral duty to withhold this personal service. He was in favour of exempting every man from doing that, which his general conduct evinced was contrary to his conscience: but it cannot be said that it is against the conscience of a Quaker to hold and possess property; therefore every man who receives the protection of the laws, ought to contribute his proportion to the support of the laws. He then entered more fully into a consideration of the subject, and objected to the exemption as creating an unwarrantable distinction between the citizens; throwing a burthen on the majority, to relieve the minority; giving the minority privileges from shrinking from their duty; What criterion is there said he to determine whether a man is under the impression of conscience? And concluded by saying a fine can only determine the existence of this principle.
Mr. Vining was in favor of the exemption, but did not think it would be satisfactory to the people without qualifying it by an equivalent. Quakers said he are easily distinguished—every man knows them.
Mr. Smith (S. C.) This debate seems to be detailed when gentlemen appear to think very much alike upon the subject. The question is how the fine or penalty shall be assessed; though some appear to be disposed to exempt those people not only from personal service, but from all commutation. It then seems necessary that the question should be first determined whether an equivalent shall be paid or not. According to the sentiments of some gentlemen, it is proposed to go further than even this state has, in which the greatest number of these persons exist—for when in convention the question was taken for striking out the penalty, only 7 or 8 members rose in favor of it. But he thought this proposition improperly added to the first amendment, and wished it might be withdrawn, till the question whether the exemptions should be made by the states or by the general government is determined.
Mr. Madison, replied to Mr. Smith, he said that he conceived his motion a proper amendment at this place—as the gentleman from Connecticut only moved that the exemptions made by the several states should be sanctioned by the general government:—but it is conceded that this exemption is not made by the several states, and therefore ought to be here specified. He said he should acquiesce in an equivalent—though he would prefer a gratuitous exemption.
The 9th, 10th and 11th sections were read.
Mr. Bloodworth said, that in his opinion the house had entered too much into the minutiae of the business, and in a great measure were about depriving the states of the power granted to them by the constitution. The general government ought only to organize the militia, and direct the mode of discipline. The militia, he observed, was only under the direction of the general government when called out in the actual service of the United States; the different states had the appointment of officers and the right of training them: but owing to the many particulars attended to in the bill, he could see little room left to the states for the exercise of their power. He thought that endeavouring to establish a perfect uniformity in fines, would render that part of the system very defective; as the same fine might be justly complained of as heavy in one part of the country, and at the same time be considered so trifling in another part as to render it ineffectual; he therefore wished that this part of the business be left to the states to perform. He moved for striking out a number of clauses, containing several of the particulars he objected to,—not carried.
The 12th, 13th and 14th sections were read. The two first passed without alteration; the third was struck out.
Mr. Madison said he conceived it would be necessary to pass a law, authorising the President of the United States to call out the militia, as the constitution only says, that he shall be commander in chief of the militia when in the service of the United States, without giving him the power of ordering it out.
Mr. Smith read a law passed last session, and still in force, giving him that authority. Adjourned.

Foreign Advices.
Received by late arrivals at New-York, Lewis-Town (Capes of Delaware) and Baltimore.
P A R I S, October 25.
ON Friday, as we have already announced, all the Ministers, except M. de Montmorin, sent a joint letter to the King, requesting his Majesty's permission to resign their several employments; to which his Majesty was pleased to send the following answer:
"I have a lively feeling of the evidence you give me of your sentiments; Nobody is better acquainted than myself, upon what a small foundation is conceived the uneasiness and disgust on your account. I have always seen you friends to the people, to order, to justice, and to the laws. I will take your letter into particular consideration, and will make each of you acquainted with my intentions; and I expect, from your zeal to the public good, and your attachment to me, that until then you will not quit your functions."
(Signed)
L O U I S."
The democratics, already deserted in their motion in the Assembly for the removal of the Ministers, are not quite satisfied with this second victory gained over them by the firmness of the King.
L O N D O N,
OCTOBER 20. Last Monday night the French Ambassador had a long conference with the Minister, at his house in Downing-Street, on the subject of the last despatches of the Court of Spain.
Monday 11th inst. died, Dr. Henry Cullen, Physician in Edinburg, and one of the Physicians to the Royal Infirmary there.
The Gazette of to-morrow will contain a proclamation for prolonging the bounty on seamen till the 31st of December next.
We have undoubted authority for saying, that affairs have taken an alarming and unexpected turn. After Prussia, with the concurrence of England, had proceeded in the negotiation for general peace, and that he had made reasonable propositions to Russia, the Minister of the new Emperor at the Court of Berlin delivered to M. de Hertzberg an official note that "Leopold would consider himself bound to assist Russia, with all his force, in case he should be attacked by Prussia." This intimation has completely changed the aspect of affairs in Germany; and, from every appearance of peace, there is now making every preparation for war.
OCTOBER 25.
PROPOSITIONS OF ENGLAND TO SPAIN.
The subjoined propositions are handed about, as lately made to the Court of Spain, by the British Minister, and on which, it is pretended, that the present negotiation depends. We do not presume to answer for the reality of them. The following are the conditions of which they are composed:
"That the navigation of the Pacific Ocean, or South Seas, shall be free.
"That Spain shall be allowed a certain exclusive control and jurisdiction near the coasts of her American colonies, or, in plainer terms, what is called in England, an Hovering-Act.
"That all contraband trade on the Spanish Main shall be prohibited, and smugglers rigorously and efficaciously punished.
And, lastly, "That the trade, intercourse, and visitation of all places, not claimed, or where there are no Spanish settlements, shall be left free and open to all nations."
A politician, commenting on the last clause, observes, "that this right, according to the law of nature, neither belongs to England nor Spain, but to the native inhabitants, who have suffered from the invasions and the encroachments of both—yet, according to the law of nations, which we do not always find in conformity to that of nature, the right rests clearly and decidedly with Spain."—Of this we are not so clearly convinced—but, with some people, Mr. Pitt can do nothing right.
The idea of a counter-revolution in France is certainly vain and nugatory. If a part only of the people had taken the lead in the late violent proceedings, which have disgraced the government of that country, it might be supposed that the turbulence of faction would, in time, subside, and the proper weight of regal authority be restored; but the popular phrensy absolutely infects the whole people in France, insomuch as to have produced a total inversion of the national character—and the French, from being the veriest slaves of arbitrary power, are now the wildest enthusiasts of imaginary freedom.
OCT. 25. Many circumstances have recently arisen on which to ground the hopes of a continuance of PEACE;—the revolt in the officers of the FRENCH MARINE, and the armistice between the TURKS and RUSSIANS, under the mediation of the KING OF PRUSSIA, have materially altered the complexion of politics throughout the continent of Europe. If we add to this the decided and avowed aversion that Count FLORIDA BLANCA has to a war with England, on the present subject matter of dispute, there is every reason to believe that we shall be able, at last, to avoid the calamities of a war, and yet preserve inviolate the national honour and commercial interests of GREAT-BRITAIN.
OCT. 25. His Majesty lately signified his desire to see Macdonald, the old Highlander, who won the walking wager a week or two since, of ten
miles in two hours and a half. He was accordingly presented to the King at Windsor; when his Majesty expressed his surprise at such an exertion in a man of upwards of 100; and, with his wonted goodness and condescension, gave him the contents of the purse then in his pocket—nine guineas and a half.
Orders, it is said, were issued at the War-Office on Tuesday last, for augmenting the Cavalry, in consequence of the unpleasing appearance of German politics.
OCT. 27. The Count d'Estaing's appointment to the command of the French Grand Fleet, is a circumstance of general joy throughout France.
As striking proofs of the late abundant harvest, several Bakers in Bath sell upwards of eight pounds of bread for a shilling—and two Bakers in Bristol advertise to sell nine pounds and a half of the best second bread for a shilling, and ten pounds and a half of household bread for the same price.—They purpose increasing the weight as flour falls.
The Ministers of France are at present rather in a declining state of political health; they have been recently troubled with a complaint more familiar to the softer sex—a violent agitation of the nerves—since they have been commanded to give in their accounts to the National Assembly.
NOVEMBER 5. Yesterday, soon after the messenger arrived with despatches from Mr. Fitzherbert at Madrid, messengers were sent off from the Secretary of State's office, to all parts of England to acquaint them with the intelligence of a peace with Spain.
It is confidently said, that every demand made on the part of England has been acceded to by Spain; so tardy, however, was that court in compliance, that it was not till the midnight preceding the departure of Duffins, that the concession was made. The arrival of the courier with the signed convention may be expected on Sunday; after which the plenipotentiaries of the two nations will have conferences, to settle, digest, and methodize the conditions of the treaty.
UNITED STATES.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE UNITED STATES.
FRIDAY, December 31.
A Letter from the Attorney General of the United States, accompanied with a report, containing observations on, and a plan for, a judiciary system, was read and ordered to be committed to a committee of the whole House next Wednesday week, and 300 copies ordered to be printed.
Mr. Goodhue, from the committee on the petition of Shubal Swaine, reported a bill for his relief, by remitting his fine, which was read the first time.
Agreeable to the standing order of the day, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the state of the Union, to take into consideration the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, on the bill for establishing land-offices.
Mr. Boudinot in the chair.
After some time spent in debate, the bill being gone through, the committee rose, and the Chairman reported, That the committee, according to order, had under their consideration the bill for establishing land offices, and had come to sundry resolutions, which were ordered to lie on the table.
Adjourned till Monday.
MONDAY, January 3, 1791.
The bill for the relief of S. Swaine, was read the second time, and engrossed for a third reading.
The House then took up the consideration of the resolutions of the committee of the whole, and the report of the Secretary of the Treasury on the establishment of land-offices, for the disposal of the lands belonging to the United States.
Sundry amendments were agreed to, the bill was gone through, and the House adjourned.
WEDNESDAY, January 5.
The bill for providing for the national defence by the establishment of an uniform militia, was referred to a committee of the whole, and made the order of the day for Wednesday next.
A petition was read praying that Congress do adopt some measures to secure correctness to the bible printed in the United States.—Ordered to lie on the table.
The House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration a bill for laying certain additional duties on distilled spirits. Mr. Boudinot in the chair.
Sundry amendments were agreed to, the committee rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again.—Adjourned.
THURSDAY, January 6.
Sundry petitions were read and referred to the heads of departments.
The committee of enrolment reported, that they had examined the bill to provide for the unlading of vessels, in cases of obstruction by ice.
The House, agreeably to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee of the whole House, to take into further consideration the bill repealing, after the last day of next, the act laying duties on distilled and other spirits imported from abroad, and imposing others in their stead.
Mr. Boudinot in the chair.
Much opposition was made to the 12th section,
by those members who opposed the general principles of the bill. They contended that there was no necessity for laying this additional tax, and that if it was necessary to raise an additional revenue, the method proposed was improper and impolitic,—a mode that could not fail of displeasing a number of the citizens, especially of the southern states. By those in favour of the bill, this excise, as it was called, was preferred to any other method of raising an additional revenue, which it was necessary, they contended, should be raised. There was no question taken on the section, the committee rose and reported progress, and asked leave to sit again.
A letter was received from the Secretary of the Treasury, enclosing a statement of the amount of the duties on tonnage for one year, from the first of October 1789, to the 30th of September 1790, which was read and ordered to lie on the table.
Also a letter and report of appropriations of money for certain purposes therein mentioned, which was read, and ordered to lie on the table.
On motion, ordered, that 300 copies of the several papers contained in the reports of the Secretary of the Treasury, be printed for the use of the members.
FRIDAY, January 7.
Mr. Sherman, from the committee appointed to prepare and bring in a bill to establish the post-office and post-roads in the United States, reported a bill for that purpose, which was read the first time, and, on motion, the said bill was read the second time, and ordered to be referred to a committee of the whole House on Monday week, and that 100 copies be printed.
On motion, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole, to take into consideration the bill directing the mode in which the evidences of the debt of the United States, which shall have been, or may be lost or destroyed, shall be renewed.
Mr. Boudinot in the chair.
After some time spent in debate, the committee rose, and the chairman reported that the committee had made sundry amendments, but not having had time to go through the bill, moved for leave to sit again.
Mr. Goodhue gave notice, that he should move for leave to bring in a bill, for the relief of insolvent public debtors.
MONDAY, January 10.
Mr. Ames made a motion, that a committee should be appointed to consider and report, whether any, and what further compensation is necessary to be made to the commissioners of the loans, for the extraordinary expenses incurred in the execution of their office. Ordered to lie on the table.
The House, in committee of the whole, (Mr. Boudinot in the chair) resumed the consideration of the bill for the renewal of lost certificates; and having gone through the same, rose, and reported it with amendments.
On motion, the said bill and amendments were recommitted to a select committee, consisting of Messrs. Lawrance, Sedgwick, Clymer, Carroll, Williamson, Sturges, and Sherman.
The House, in committee of the whole (Mr. Boudinot in the chair) took into consideration the bill to declare what officer shall act as President of the United States, in case of vacancy in the offices of President and Vice-President; and after some time spent therein, rose, reported progress, and obtained leave to sit again.—Adjourned.
TUESDAY, January 11.
The Speaker laid before the House a petition from sundry inhabitants of the state of Pennsylvania, praying compensation for losses sustained during the late war. Referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
Mr. Secretary Otis laid before the House a bill passed by the Senate, granting to the inhabitants of Post St. Vincent's, in the Illinois Country, certain lands northwest of the Ohio.
The House in committee of the whole (Mr. Boudinot in chair) resumed the consideration of the excise-bill; and after some time spent therein, rose, and reported progress.
Adjourned.
S A L E M, December 21.
The Spaniards are at war with the Moors. The threatened attack of the latter upon Ceuta, (a Spanish city on the African shore, strongly garrisoned) was probably made on the 15th of October; on which day Captain Alhby, of this port, passing by on his passage from Malaga, heard a most tremendous roar of cannon, and volleys of musketry, which continued 8 hours, almost incessantly. Captain Alhby was about 7 miles distant from the shore, and the water was foggy; but he could perceive the smoke rising over Ceuta; and a Portuguese cruiser, whom he spoke, told the Moors were assailing that place.
B O S T O N, January 3.
We are assured, by good authority, that vessel has arrived at Newbury-Port, in a short passage from Ireland, the Captain of which was informed, the day before he sailed, by persons of veracity, that the dispute with Spain was fully accommodated, and that orders had been received in Ireland to disband the regiments newly raised in that kingdom. The date of these accounts is Nov. 7, several days later than have been before received.
The total of the taxes laid on Great-Britain in the single year of 1780, was 21 382 249 l. 11 s. 8 d. sterling—above one third more than the whole national debt of the United States. Let Americans think of these things.

ALBANY, January 3. From the Montreal paper, Nov. 23.
DETROIT.
Letters in Quebeck say, "that the American Gen. St. Clair, with 6000 foot, 400 horse, and 400 pioneers, was on his march to the lines of Detroit, that two officers of this American detachment were sent to the commander at Detroit (Major Smith) with information of their business; which was, to retaliate the depredations of the Indians, and menaced the commander, that if he furnished arms or ammunition to the Indians he must expect the consequences. The commander's answer, it is said, was, "He knew how to follow his instructions."
A letter from a young gentleman of this city, now at Manchester, Vermont, dated the 20th inst. mentions the sudden death of two young women of that town (Patty Savage, aged 18, and Lois Goodrich, 16) who having agreed, on Wednesday evening the 15th, to sleep in a newly plastered bed-room—on account of the dampness of the walls the servant was directed to place a pot of charcoal in it; and on the morning following, melancholy to relate! the latter was found dead, and the former possessed only some of the remaining symptoms of life—She however lived three or four days.
NEW-LONDON, December 24.
By a Gentleman just arrived from Cape-Francois, we are informed, that the Insurrection of the Malitocs and free-Negroes in the neighbourhood of the place, which threatened very serious consequences, is almost wholly quelled, the Insurgents being collected in very small parties, and many of their leaders taken, whom it is supposed will be condemned to suffer death in its most cruel forms.
NEW-YORK, January 1.
In Vermont, it is said, that a very large majority of the people are for adopting the constitution of the states; but there are some opposers, and a few towns have voted against the Union.
Electioneering runs high in the Province of Maine—the PRINTER of the "Gazette of Maine," is warned to DEPART in 48 hours!
Amongst the various speculations and conjectures, on the question were the descent of the British armament will be attempted, many opinions have determined on the island of Martinique, at present in a state of anarchy, little prepared to resist a powerful attack by land and sea, and half of the inhabitants disposed to join the invaders.
JANUARY 3. The old year has gone out like a roaring lion, and a new one ushered upon us by fierce north winds. The cold has been extreme for several days past, attended with some snow to replenish the sleighing foundation, and to enwrap our mother earth with a fleecy warmth. Wood is now high, but the charitable donations of the citizens, since the sitting in of winter, has caused the hearts of many, who would otherwise have been distressed, to leap for joy. The floating ice in the two rivers has, in several instances, impeded navigation for the moment, but an entire stoppage has never taken place.
The Convention between Great Britain and Spain, said to be signed at Madrid on the 27th of last October, brings to recollection what passed between these two Courts in the year 1739, at the commencement of which Preliminaries of a Convention were signed; and the differences then subsisting being left to be discussed by a Congress, the interest of Great Britain were supposed to be betrayed, and that whole nation was thrown into a ferment—petitions against the Convention were sent from all the principal trading towns, and the universal out-cry was, "A Free Sea, or a War!"—the latter of which was, on the 19th day of October, in the same year the Convention was signed, formally declared by Great Britain, under the auspices of Sir Robert Walpole, then Premier, who had previously sent Admiral Vernon to attack the town of Porto-Bello, in the Spanish West-Indies, which he took on the 22d of November, 1739; Admiral Haddock had also, in October, taken two Caracca ships, with two million of dollars: from which proceedings we are not suddenly to credit a prospect of a permanent peace between those two powers, founded on the aforesaid Convention of the 27th of October; but the proceedings of the British Parliament, to which the question of peace and war is now referred by Mr. Pitt and the Cabinet Council, will afford us more light into the mystery. In the mean time unremitted preparations are continued by the British, in order to attack the Spanish nation in parts most susceptible of impression.
JANUARY 10. Governor Telfair, of Georgia, in consequence of the murder of a boy, the stealing of horses, and the firing upon two men who had passports from McGillivray, by the Creeks, has issued his proclamation, ordering notice to be given to the Indians, that they shall not come armed within that State, until the pleasure of the President of the United States shall be known respecting the ravages.
JANUARY 12. By Capt. Hill, of the ship Hannah, who arrived in this port yesterday from the Island of Barbadoes, we learn that, previous to his departure, information had been received there from England of the amicable adjustment of the disputes which lately subsisted between Spain and Great Britain. The British ships of the line, which lately arrived at Barbadoes, had sailed on their return home; and the transports, with the troops, were to follow in a few days.
On the 5th inst. was launched at Providence, amidst the acclamations of a vast concourse of spectators, the new ship THE PRESIDENT, burthen about 1000 tons, belonging to Messrs. Brown and Francis.
PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 5.
Extract of a letter, dated London, 5th November, 1790.
We embrace the earliest opportunity of informing you, that a messenger arrived yesterday morning from Madrid, with despatches from the Ambassador, Mr. Fitzherbert, dated 24th Oct. containing an account that a convention for settling the differences which had arisen with that Court, was agreed upon between him and the Count de Florida Blanca, and would be signed and interchanged the 27th of that month. This happy event, by ensuring the continuance of peace, will give new life to trade, which has long been in a state of inactivity."
The committee of the Senate to which was referred the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, on the subject of a National Bank, reported a bill on Monday last, which was read the first time, and 150 copies ordered to be printed for the members of the legislature.
A principal cause of the low state of agriculture is the want of capital to make improvements: the plan of the National Bank holds up the prospect of relief: such a great capital thrown into circulation will diffuse new health to quicken the industry of the country; many millions of new property will be set in motion, and a new celerity given to the old stock. The farmers may look forward to a more improved state, and of course to an higher degree of prosperity: with the means, it is to be hoped, the spirit of improvement will be diffused.
The trade, manufactures, and husbandry of a country, will remain far behind the most prosperous state to which they may be carried, until Banks and inland Canals are formed: they afford a surprising aid: They seem to assist industry, and to bear relation to the society, as mechanics do to particular arts; our improving country will soon be equal to any attempts of this nature.
JANUARY 13. The Count de Florida Blanca's dispute with Mr. Pitt, reminds us of former political altercations. It also brings to our memory what individuals have often seen, and not seldom experienced. Two boys are half willing, or altogether unwilling, to box.—They stand trembling with rage and terror—but stand at a distance in menacing postures. Why don't you strike first, says Tom—No, you shall strike first, says Billy. And thus with panting bosoms, glowing cheeks, and inflamed eyes, either seems to provoke that combat, which either wishes to decline.
At length the other boys of the village, partly from the love of sport, and partly from the love of mischief, shame them out of timidity, and excite their courage. Tom gives Billy a push; Billy returns the compliment, or grows louder in menaces, and more encouraged in countenance. From the push they proceed to the kick. The feet are well employed, but the hands are almost idle. The clenched fist now proceeds to action. The blood is heated. Valor (too often a name for fear, rendered desperate) boils in their veins. The cager boys enjoy the conflict, and the girls at a distance gaze with trepidation, and suspend their applause, till victory shall announce the hero.
One blow has been struck, but with timidity.—No return has been made from apparent policy.—Tom bullies like a Hector, and Billy unites the politician and the bravo. But the tables seem suddenly to be turned, and they exchange characters. Billy commences hero, and Tom shrinks from the contest. Thus happily black eyes and bloody noses are avoided. The chiefs return to their tops and marbles. Laughter ensues; but the peace of the village is restored; and long may it continue uninterrupted.
May Pennsylvania take example from this sketch, and acknowledge, that quarrels between nations, could they be divested of the horrors of bloodshed and other evils, are as ridiculous as a boxing match between two children.
JANUARY 14. There is no stemming the torrent of ill temper, it is the source of every other evil of life.—We cannot say to petulance and peevishness thus far shalt thou go, and no further! To get the better of a quarrelsome disposition, can be only done by acting so as to be happy within ourselves.—When we are conscious of acting properly in the state we are in, it disarms every desire to take offence—the passions are calmed—the heart is made better—the judgment is awake—and we overlook the failings of others—contented, they shall never hereafter interfere with our own comfort and ease.
Of all miseries, there is none greater than to possess or be connected with a dissatisfied, peevish and unequal temper.—It is the certain produce of self-conceit and folly—a vulgar and uncultivated mind.—Those who possess this unhappy disposition are the slaves of every varying moment, and are never less themselves, than when they think they are shewing proper spirit.
JANUARY 15. Throughout the operation of nature, or of art, we can perceive no effect without an adequate cause. The ruler of the universe has fixed determinate bounds to his works. The earthquake is rationally accounted for; and, altho' we know not "whence the wind cometh or whether it goeth," yet we can generally foresee its approach, and in a great measure, even on the ocean, may be protected from its fury.
BALTIMORE, January 7—18.
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in London, to his correspondent in this town, dated November 4.
"The importation of foreign grain is prohibited; but the exportation of our own will not be allowed, until there is some certainty as to peace or war."
On the 2d ultimo, the schooner Seaflower, Capt. Gorfuch, laden with 700 bushels of wheat, bound
from Wye-River for the Head of Elk, was sunk by the ice.
Extract of a Letter from Bourdeaux, to a Gentleman in Norfolk, dated November 12.
"By certain and undoubted Accounts received here from London and Spain, two Days past, ALL MATTERS ARE ADJUSTED AND SETTLED with the Court of England and that of Spain; and there is to be no War with that nation and England—Spain having complied with what the Court of England demanded."
Extract of a letter from a gentleman in Liverpool, to another in this town, dated October 27.
"By a late order of the King in Council it is directed, that, if at any time before the 28th of February next, the average price of the whole kingdom for any price of grain, shall be such under the late corn-law, would have shut the ports of any particular district against it, such grain shall not be imported for home consumption, into ANY port in this kingdom, but may be landed and warehoused under the joint locks of the King and the importer."
"We have no doubt that the effect of this measure will be very soon to shut the ports of this kingdom against the importation of Foreign Wheat and Flour, on payment of the law duties. A bill for the regulation of the corn-trade, is intended to be brought into Parliament the ensuing session, and passed into a permanent law."
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, January 25.
The net amount of duties on goods, wares and merchandize, imported into the United States, from the first day of August, to the 30th of September, 1790, is FOUR HUNDRED FIFTEEN THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED FIFTY NINE DOLLARS, SEVENTEEN and ONE QUARTER CENTS.
The net amount of duties on goods, wares and merchandize, imported into the United States, from the 1st day of October, 1789, to the 30th of September, 1790, is ONE MILLION NINE HUNDRED and THREE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED and NINE DOLLARS, FORTY EIGHT and HALF CENTS.
On the 4th inst. a Bill providing for the Admission of the District of Kentucky into the Union, was read a second time in the Senate of the United States.
The census of the inhabitants of the county of Hampshire, (Massachusetts) taken pursuant to the late law of the Union, amounts to fifty-nine thousand seven hundred and eleven: In this district are 9181 houses—The county of Essex is found to contain fifty-seven thousand, nine hundred and seven inhabitants.
Extract of a letter from Boston, to a merchant in New-York, dated January 5, 1791.
"By a brig of mine, that left Milford-Haven the 22d November, we have certain accounts of peace: the Convention was published in the London paper, which the Captain read, signed by the two ministers, to be ratified in six weeks. The British to have a right of trading at Nootka, and to fish in the Pacific Ocean, but to keep 10 leagues from the coast; and to receive compensation for the vessels taken: both to bear their own expences, and nothing reserved for a future discussion."
Extract of a letter from Governor St. Clair, to the Secretary of War, dated Marietta, November 26.
"If the report respecting Major Hamtramck be near the truth, that he had destroyed four of the Indian villages, and all their provisions, and had returned without the loss of a man, the success will then have been as complete as it could have been wished; and the first news we shall hear from the Indians, will be an humble supplication for peace: Should that, however, not happen soon, I will find means to let them know, that it will not be refused them if they desire it on reasonable terms."
The City and County of New-York now contains 30,022 Inhabitants, having increased 6408, since the Year 1786.
Edward O. Williams
Most respectfully acquaints the Public in general, and his Friends in particular,
THAT he has recommenced the practice of PHYSIC and SURGERY in this town, living opposite Mr. Wyncoop's.
Shepherd's-Town, January 24. 1791.
To be sold, for a term of years, ONE HUNDRED ACRES OF
L A N D,
Or the one half of a
Merchant-Mill.
Any person inclining to purchase, may know the terms, by applying to
THOMAS HALL.
Berkeley-County, January 20, 1791.

SEAT OF THE MUSES.
O D E, ON THE FOURTH JULY, 1790.
I. IN the regions of bliss where the majesty reigns, Ten thousand bright Seraphims thone, Wing'd for flight, they all stand harps of gold in each hand, When a voice issu'd mild from the throne. II. Ye pow'rs and dominions, bright guardians of realms Whose sway Europe's sons have rever'd; Eastern monarchs no more, your aid shall implore, To the west all your cares be transfer'd. III. That Vine which from Egypt to Canaan I brought, With an out-stretch'd omnipotent arm; In America's soil, from Britania's bleak isle, Shall flourish—and brave ev'ry storm. IV. In vain persecution her wheel shall prepare, The tyrant his scourge lift on high, The wheel shall be broke, the scourge and the yoke, All shatter'd in pieces shall lie. V. To accomplish my pleasure, a hero I'll raise, Unrival'd in counsel and might; Like the prophet of old, wise, patient and bold, Resistless as Joshua in fight. VI. See the plains of Columbia, with banners o'erspread, Hark, the roar of the battl's begun, Like a son of the skies, when proud rebels arise, He braves the dire hurricane on. VII. Him terrors, nor treasons nor dangers shall daunt, 'Till his country from bondage restor'd; Independent and free, all her greatness shall see Due alone to his conquering sword. VIII. When the thunder is o'er, and fair peace spreads her wing, The Chief still refulgent shall beam, Presiding at helm, framing laws for the realm, In Peace as in War still supreme. IX. Then the bright golden age shall triumphant return, Millennium's new paradise bloom; While from earth's distant end, their high fiat to attend, All nations with transport shall come. X. Hail, America, hail! the glory of lands! To thee such high honours are given! Thy stars still shall blaze, 'till the moon veil her rays, And the sun lose his path-way in Heaven.
From the AMERICAN MERCURY.
Let us see how the Thirteen United States are employed.
NEW-HAMPSHIRE very quietly choosing Representatives for Congress. MASSACHUSETTS electioneering and puffing the fame of the late Gov. Bowdoin.—(Gov. Bowdoin was an excellent and eminent character, but if his departed spirit could read the Boston news-papers, I am sure the good genius would gladly dispense with the stile of their encomiums. Splendid luminary! radiance! refulgence! Temples of immortality! The Boston stile is proverbial throughout the states for froth, bombast and declamation. But it is partial to judge from news-papers.)
CONNECTICUT abounds with wondrous events. An enormous crop of pumpkins is gathered; a whole negro* has been hanged and dissected, and his memoirs published; a man† has been elected a member of Congress merely to gratify his revenge in triumphing over his enemies—he has resigned as he intended before he was elected—the freemen are summoned to meet again—a trifle indeed to gratify one man's passions! but the wonder of wonders is, that even in Connecticut, a man and his wife cannot get a divorce, when both desire it.
NEW-YORK, a little peevish—praising their fifth and Federal Hall—but getting money.
NEW-JERSEY addressing their new Governor, and Lawyers shed tears on the occasion. How would the bar, in other states cry, if half their numbers should be elected Governors.
PENNSYLVANIA the arbiter of the Union! (so she says) rejoicing at the approach of Congress—making splendid preparations! the theatre is enlarging and decorating—the court house is finishing—and ladies are setting their caps. The generous patriotic Bobby has turned himself out of house and home to make way for a greater man.
DELAWARE, raising wheat, and exporting flour: The best of business.
MARYLAND, sending a new delegation to Congress. Baltimore has feeble hopes of being the residence, but perhaps the ten miles square may cover one corner of the state on the Patowmac.
VIRGINIA, stark mad with the assumption, declaring it is a dangerous measure and unconstitutional. The old dominion is proud without power, and wise without decency. What a trick have Congress played, to undertake to pay the public debt, without asking leave of the old dominion! For Congress to send armies into Virginia to defend it, and then oblige the state to pay an equal part of the expence, is unconstitutional, it is intolerable. How much wiser is it to make a law that no man shall be compelled to pay his debts!
NORTH-CAROLINA, we know little about.— SOUTH-CAROLINA getting into a good way under a new Constitution.
GEORGIA, raving at General Knox and the Indian treaty. How foolish it is to be at peace with the Creeks! How much better to let the armies of veteran troops, inhabiting Georgia, fall upon the tawny sons of rapine and extirpate them at once! Then the wild men of the back settlements might trespass without dread of the hatchet.
VERMONT, coming forward to be one of us.
* Joseph Mountain. † Pierpont Edwards, Esq.
FOR THE GENERAL ADVERTISER, &c.
Mr. BACHE,
YOUR inserting the following estimate of the product and expense of cultivating an acre of ground in hops will oblige the subscriber.
  First ploughing in the spring, £. 0 6 0   Dressing the hills, 0 15 0   Setting the poles, 2 15 0   Directing the vines to the poles, which may be done by two boys in two hours each day for one week, 0 12 0   Second ploughing and harrowing, 0 10 0   Gathering the hops, 9 10 0   Drying ditto, 2 0 0   Packing ditto, 0 15 0   Total amount of expenses, £. 17 3 0 
  Common product of one acre, 1000lbs. at 1s. per lb. £. 50 0 0   Deduct amount of expenses, as above, 17 3 0   Net profit, £. 32 17 0 
The price of 1s. per lb. has been the average price of hops for twenty years past, in the city of Philadelphia; the above quantity has been the actual annual produce of an acre of ground in hops, near said city, under my particular care and direction, the original quality of which was only good wheat land.
AN OLD HOP-RAISER.
N. B. There has been imported into the city of Philadelphia, this season, forty thousand pounds weight of hops, chiefly from Boston, for which the brewers thereof have paid twelve thousand dollars.
A Stray Cow.
STRAYED from the Subscriber, A Milch Cow, 10 years old—her sides red—her face and belley white—has a white streak along her back—has wide horns—and is ear-marked, but the mark forgot. Whoever will give information where the above stray cow is, shall be handsomely rewarded, by
ABRAHAM MORGAN.
Shepherd's-Town, January 1, 1791.
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 PEIRCE.
November 22, 1790.
N. B. At this place we work all Stone Coals.
CAME to the Plantation of the Subscriber, about a month ago, a small black GELDING, about four years old. He is posted 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.
NOTICE.
THE subscribers found, on Sunday the 16th instant, in a fodder house of Mr. JOHN BROWN, near this town, some large pieces of Sole-Leather, an old Bag, some Pewter, &c. some worn Worsted-Stuff. They suspect they are stolen goods. The owner may have them by proving their property, and paying the cost of this advertisement.
JACOB FISER, MICHAEL FESTER.
Shepherd's-Town, Jan. 17, 1791.
BERKELEY, A.
PERSONALLY appeared before me, PHILIP FITZPATRICK, and acknowledged, that he had told LIES respecting CHARLES CULINGS, and offered to prove them, which he says he is sorry for. Signed and acknowledged before me, this 15th day of January, 1791.
his PHILIP FITZPATRICK. Mark.
WILLIAM PORTERFIELD, one of the Magistrates (for said County).
To be RENTED in CHARLES-TOWN, BERKELEY, THAT VALUABLE HOUSE,
Where Mr. JAMES HAMMOND now keeps Store. IT is well calculated for either Store or Tavern, and may be entered on the 1st. of April next. ALSO, that commodious HOUSE where Mr. PHILIP WELSH lives, opposite Mr. HAMMOND's Store. And a new finished two-story HOUSE, on the Main Street, fit for a genteel private family, or a tradesman. For particulars, apply to the Subscriber, near the premises.
WILLIAM CHERRY.
January 6, 1791.
10 Dollars Reward.
RAN away from the Subscriber, on Saturday evening last, a NEGRO MAN, named WILL, about 35 years of age, five feet ten inches high, likely, strong and well made—as he took with him various articles of cloathing, his dress cannot be particularized. The above reward and all reasonable charges will be paid to any person who apprehends the said negro, and delivers him to me, or otherwise secures him so that I can have him again.
CHARLES MAGILL.
Winchester, January 4, 1791.
Wanted to Hire,
A young Man,
In the capacity of a HOSTLER. He must be of an honest, industrious, sober Character. Apply to ALEXANDER ROGERS, at Martinsburg, or the PRINTER hereof.
A Purse of Money!
Was left on the Counter of the Subscriber, by some person unknown, a Purse, with a sum of MONEY in it. Any one that will give an exact description, prove property, and pay the charge of this advertisement, may receive the Purse and Money from
JOHN KEARSLEY.
Shepherd's-Town, December 31, 1790.
TO BE SOLD, A good milch Cow.
Inquire of the Printer.
††† THE Public are informed.
That a regular Post-Rider, (whose character will bear examination) is now established from this town to Martinsburg, Back-Creek, Middletown, Hopwell, and Charlestown. He leaves the Printing-Office every Tuesday. Those who may wish to encourage the circulation of the PATOWMAC GUARDIAN, &c. on that route, may rely on the utmost punctuality in the delivery of their papers.