The Patowmac guardian, and Berkeley advertiser (Shepherdstown, Va. [W. Va.]), 1791-12-06 00:00:00

The POTOMAC GUARDIAN, and BERKELEY ADVERTISER.
PRICE TWO DOLLARS PER ANN.]
T U E S D A Y, DECEMBER 6, 1791.
[NUMBER 56 OF VOL. 2.]
WHERE LIBERTY DWELLS, THERE IS MY COUNTRY.
Franklin.
PHILADELPHIA, November 16, 1791. Extract from a Paris Paper of September 14, received yesterday by the Sloop Illinois, Story, in a short passage from Dunkirk.
Letter from the KING to the ASSEMBLY.
Gentlemen,
I Have attentively examined the Constitutional Act which you have presented to me. I do accept it, and will cause it to be executed. This simple declaration might at other time have been sufficient: but now I am bound to make my motives known; it is a duty which I owe to the Nation and to myself.
For a long time I had conceived the design of fixing the happiness of the people on invariable bases. Struck with several abuses which weakened the springs of government; struck above all with the disproportion which existed in the financial department, between the receipts and expenditures, I determined to subject all the parts of government to uniform rules. But sensible that I could not alone reach this great object, I summoned the nation to my assistance.
In the course of the events of the revolution, and when you began to issue constitutional decrees, I did not wait to give my assent to them until the Constitution should be completed. I favoured as much as was in my power the establishment of its several parts, even before I could judge of the whole, and if, in the course of your operations, disorders came to effect my mind, I hoped that the law would resume its empire and its force, and that the people would shew it that respect and that confidence which alone ensure their happiness.
I persisted a long while in this expectation, and my resolution did not change until hope forsook me. Let every one recollect the era at which I left Paris: opinions then far from uniting in a common centre, branched out into several parties: disorders and the licentiousness of writings were then at their height; no authority was respected; I could no longer discern nor recognize in the midst of that chaos, the real will of the French Nation.
Then, had you presented the Constitution to me, I should not have tho't that the interest of the people ought to induce me to accept it. I had but one sentiment, but one wish—that of keeping at a distance from all parties, and thus to know, in a very precise manner, the wish of the nation.
The motives which then directed me, do not now subsist any longer; you have revised the Constitution, and you have modified some articles of it which appeared to me to be liable to great inconveniencies.
You have subjected its revision to legal forms; in fine, the will of the people cannot be any longer doubtful to me, I have seen them constantly give their adhesion to this Constitution which you have made for me. I do therefore accept this Constitution, and I engage myself to defend it against enemies from within and from without; I shall cause it to be executed by all the means which it puts into my power.
Knowing that it is agreeable to the wishes of a very great majority of the nation, I do declare, that in adhering thereto, I renounce the concurrence which I had at first claimed in this business, and that being the only person who is responsible to the nation only, no other when I make this renunciation, has a right to complain of it.
I should however, be wanting in regard for truth, if I did not say that I have perceived in some parts of your work a want of that energy which is indispensable to give all the necessary unity throughout all the parts of a vast empire; but in this respect, experience alone has a right to be the judge, and when I shall have bona fide caused the laws (the deposit whereof is trusted to me) to be carried into execution, it will remain for the nation to explain themselves by all the means which are referred to them.
But, gentlemen, for the securing of liberty, for the security of the constitution, for the individual security of all Frenchmen, their respective and common interests must be united in the re-establishment of order, and in the respect due to the laws; all Frenchmen must combine together, and now that the constitution is terminated, we have no enemies to fear but disorder and anarchy, and I will combat those common enemies.
Those whom persecution has kept at a distance ought in returning to their country, be sure of meeting with the protection of the laws, and in order to extinguish all animosities, and to unite all the parties which such a revolution must have produced, let us consent to forget all the past.
Let the accusations and prosecutions which have sprung from the events of the revolution be extinguished by a general reconciliation. Could you see culprits in those who have shewn an attachment to my person? as to those who by a guilty or indiscreet zeal have drawn upon them the rigour of the laws, I feel that I am for them the king of all Frenchmen.
(Signed) LOUIS.
September 13th, 1791.
P. S. I have thought gentlemen, that it was in the midst of the Representatives of the Nation, and
in the very place where the constitution was made, that I ought to pronounce my acceptance in person. In consequence I give you notice, that to-morrow at noon, I shall repair to the Assembly of the Representatives of the Nation, solemnly to pronounce that acceptance.
Loud plaudits had frequently interrupted the reading of this letter; but when it was finished, they began with redoubled force, and with shouts of Vive le Roi!
Then M. la Fayette rose and said: "Let it be permitted to me to join here my will to that of the King, and to move the adopting of his sentiments. I move that all persons accused and arrested by reason of the King's departure, be set at liberty; that all criminal prosecutions be withdrawn; that the prohibition respecting passports, and the law concerning emigrations, be repealed; and that the constitutional committee and the committee of criminal jurisprudence bring in to-morrow a bill conformable to these propositions."
This motion was received with transport, several members rising to support it.
M. Goupel then moved, that a deputation of sixty members should immediately be sent to express to the King the satisfaction of the Assembly, and inform him that they would be ready to receive him to-morrow. We must all go, exclaimed several members, and immediately the Assembly passed the following decree:
The National Assembly, after reading the King's message accepting the constitutional act, adopting the sentiments which the King has expressed respecting the cessation of all prosecutions relating to the events of the revolution, decrees as follows:
1st. All persons arrested, or accused on account of the King's departure, shall be immediately set at liberty, and all prosecutions shall cease with respect to them.
2d. The constitutional committee and the committee of criminal jurisprudence shall to-morrow, at the opening of the sitting, bring in a draught of a decree to abolish immediately all proceedings relative to the events of the revolution.
3d. There shall be likewise brought in a draught of a decree to abolish the use of passports, as well as every other restriction of the liberty which the Constitution assures to all French citizens, of going and coming as well within as without the kingdom.
4th. A deputation of sixty members shall immediately repair to the King, to present to him the above decree.
The Speech and Oath of the King of the French, spoken in the National Assembly, on the 14th September, 1791, for the acceptance of the Constitution.
GENTLEMEN,
I COME here solemnly to confirm the acceptance I have given to the Constitutional Act; in consequence—I SWEAR TO BE FAITHFUL TO THE NATION AND TO THE LAW, and to employ all the power which is delegated to me to maintaining the constitution decreed by the Constituent National Assembly, and causing the laws to be executed. May this great and memorable era, be that of the re-establishment of peace and unity, and become the pledge of the happiness of the people and of the prosperity of the empire.
After the King had subscribed the oath, the President made the following answer.
INVETERATE abuses which had long triumphed over the good intentions of our best Kings, and which would still have continued to defy the authority of the Throne, kept France under oppression.
The National Assembly, entrusted with the wishes, the rights and the power of the people, has, by the destruction of all abuses, re-established the solid foundations of public prosperity.
Sire, what the National Assembly has decreed, is ratified by the consent of the people: the most complete execution in all parts of the empire, attests the general assent. It defeats the weak schemes of those whom discontent has too long rendered blind to their own interests. It promises to your Majesty, that you will no longer wish in vain for the happiness of the French.
The National Assembly has nothing more to with for on this ever-memorable day, wherein you consummate, in the midst of them, the most solemn engagement—the acceptance of the constitutional royalty. It is the attachment of the French—it is their confidence which confers upon you this pure and respectful title to the fairest crown in the universe; and that which secures it to you, is, Sire, the inexhaustible authority of a constitution freely decreed: it is the invincible strength of a people, who has felt itself worthy of liberty: it is the want of hereditary monarchy which will always be indispensable to such a great nation.
When your Majesty, expecting from experience the light which it will throw upon the practical results of the constitution, promises to maintain it within and to defend it against enemies from without, the nation,
on, relying on the justice of their rights, and on the consciousness of their strength and courage, as well as on the earnestness of your co-operation, cannot see any ground of alarm from without, and will concur by its quiet confidence in the quick success of its internal government.
How great to our eyes, dear to our hearts, and how sublime will appear in our history, the era of this regeneration, which gives citizens to France—a country to the French; to you as a King, a title to greatness and glory, and to you, as a man, a new source of enjoyment and new sanction of happiness!
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES,
MONDAY, November 14.
MR. BALDWIN presented a petition from Gen. Jackson (Representative in the late Congress, for the state of Georgia) complaining of the undue return of a Member from that state, to serve in the present Congress; which is as follows:
To the Hon. the Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives of the United States:
The Petition of James Jackson, humbly sets forth,
THAT at the late election for Members to represent the state of Georgia, in your Hon. House for the present Congress, General Anthony Wayne and your petitioner were candidates for the Lower or Eastern District of the said state: That an improper and undue return has been made to your House of the said election: For, that the county election of Effingham, in favor of the said Anthony Wayne, was illegal;—there being nine votes more than voters at the same, and two of the three persons presiding thereat, not qualified Magistrates: For that the return for the county of Elyon, in favor of your petitioner, was suppressed: For that a false return was made to the Executive of the state, for the county of Camden, exceeding the numbers of the legal poll, which amounted to twenty-five votes, by the number of sixty-four votes, all of which were in favor of the said Anthony Wayne, and added together with the legal poll, far exceeds the whole number of male inhabitants, intitled to vote therein; and for that an illegal or pretended poll was held, after the legal poll was closed; and on which illegal poll the aforesaid false return was founded; and the legal return, after being duly certified by the proper officers, was either suppressed or destroyed.
He therefore prays your Hon. House to postpone any determination on the return of the said Anthony Wayne, for such reasonable period, as will enable your petitioner to bring forward such proofs respecting the premises, as the nature of his case may require:
And he will pray, &c. JAMES JACKSON.
Mr. Lawrence presented a petition from sundry citizens of the state of New-York, holders of bills of credit, issued by the United States, in the year 1780: ordered to lie on the table.
Mr. Seney presented a petition from the distillers of the town of Baltimore, praying a revision and modification of the Excise Law: referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
A message was received from the President of the United States, accompanied with the copy of a resolution of the General Assembly of Virginia, ratifying the first article of the proposed amendments to the constitution; and also sundry papers relative to Simms's purchase were referred to the committee on the Land-Office bill.
The committee of election reported, that they had examined the credentials of Messrs. Niles, and Smith of Vermont, Messrs. Gregg and Kittera, of Pennsylvania, Messrs. Groves and Aike of North-Carolina, Messrs. Sumpter and Barnwell, of South-Carolina, and Messrs. Wayne and Baldwin of Georgia, and found those gentlemen severally entitled to sit in the House.
Mr. Speaker laid before the House two reports of the Secretary of State, on petitions referred to him: and also a report from the Commissioners for settling the accounts between the United States and the individual states, setting forth as their opinion, that the accounts may be finally settled by the first of June 1793.
Mr. Parker presented sundry papers, authorizing the sale of a marine hospital in Virginia, to the United States: referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
A report of the Secretary of the War Department, on the petition of Rufus Hamilton, was taken up; and a resolution passed, that the prayer of the petition of Rufus Hamilton cannot be granted.
The House then, pursuant to the order of the day, resolved itself into a committee of the whole,

on the schedule of the census:—Mr. Muhlenburg in the chair.
Mr. Findley and Mr. Giles used many arguments in defence of a numerous representation, and declared in favor of the ratio of one to thirty thousand.
Mr. Boudinot argued against an over-numerous representation, and was for striking out the words "thirty thousand," to insert any greater number, that gentlemen might think proper.
The committee, without coming to a determination, rose, reported progress, and asked leave to sit again.
Adjourned.
Tuesday, November 15.
MR. WAYNE presented the petition of John Davis, praying compensation for service rendered the United States as surgeon in the army, during the late war, which was read and referred to the Secretary at War.
Mr. Sedgwick from the committee appointed for that purpose presented according to order a bill respecting fugitives from justice and from the service of their masters; which was received and read the first time, and on motion and by special order said bill was read a second time and referred to a committee of the whole House, and one hundred copies ordered to be printed.
Agreeably to the order of the day the House again resolved itself into a committee of the whole, Mr. Muhlenburg in the chair, to take into consideration the Schedule of the enumeration of the inhabitants of the United States.
After some time spent in debate, the question was called for, that the words thirty thousand be struck out, which was carried in the negative; it was then moved that thirty thousand be agreed to, which was carried in the affirmative.
The committee then rose, and the Chairman reported that the committee had had under their consideration the schedule of the enumeration of the inhabitants of the United States, and had agreed to the following resolution, "that until the next enumeration, the ratio of representation shall be one Representative for every thirty thousand inhabitants."
And on the question will the House adopt the resolution as reported by the committee, the yeas and nays being called for it was carried in the affirmative, yeas 35, nays 23.
On motion, ordered, that a committee be appointed to bring in a bill agreeable to said resolution and that Mr. Page, Mr. Murray, and Mr. Macomb be the said committee.
Adjourned.
Wednesday, November 16.
MR. GOODHUE presented a petition from the Merchants and Distillers of the town of Salem, praying an alteration in the excise law, which was read and referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
The petitions of—Beach, Thomas Foulk and Eleanor Healy, severally praying compensation for services rendered the United States during the late war, were presented to the House and read, and referred to the Secretary for the department of war.
Mr. Brown presented a memorial of the freemen of the district of Kentucky, stating sundry grievances they labour under from the operation of the Excise Law, by their being excluded from the free use of the navigation of the river Mississippi; and praying a temporary suspension thereof until they can have the free use of the navigation of said river; which was read, and on motion ordered, that such part of the petition as relates to the operation of the Excise Law, be referred to the Secretary of the Treasury for information.
The petition of sundry creditors who loaned money, between September, 1777, and March 1778, was called up, and a motion was made for referring it to the Secretary of the Treasury, which was negatived; and the petition was ordered to lie on the table.
Mr. Lawrance called up the petition of sundry citizens of New-York who were holders of certain bills of credit emitted by Congress in the year 1780, and on motion, the same was referred to the Secretary of the Treasury.
Mr. Baldwin moved that the petition of Gen. James Jackson, be referred to a special committee to report proceedings thereon, which was negatived; it was then moved that it be referred to the committee appointed to report a regular and uniform mode of proceeding in cases of contested elections of Members of this House; which was agreed to.
Adjourned.
Thursday, November 17.
SEVERAL petitions were presented and referred.
Mr. Lawrance moved, that a resolution should be passed for the appointment of a committee to prepare and report a bill to extend the time limited for the Commissioners of Accounts to complete the objects of this appointment. Ordered to lie on the table.
On motion of Mr. Sedgwick, the House resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill providing a mode for renewing the evidences of the debt of the United States, in cases where the certificates have been destroyed or lost.
Several amendments were made, and the bill underwent considerable alteration. The committee then rose, and reported the bill as amended, which was taken up in the House, and deliberated upon for some time; but on motion of Mr. Murray,
the House adjourned, without coming to any decision.
The Bill, directing the mode in which certain evidences of the debt of the United States, which have been lost or destroyed, may be renewed, was this day considered in committee of the House, and a motion of Mr. Sedgwick, to strike out the words "lost or," produced a debate, which chiefly turned upon the acceptance of the word destroyed. Those who were in favour of striking out the words, lost or, contended that it was going far enough to provide for those creditors, the evidence of whose certificates were actually burned or destroyed; but to provide also for those which have been lost, and may be found, would be an unsafe measure for the United States, as it might subject the government to a double claim for the same debt. In opposition to those objections it was proposed, that the persons requiring a renewal of certificates should give bonds of indemnification, and that the renewed certificate should express on the face thereof, that it had been issued in lieu of one that had been lost or destroyed, and that 12 months should be allowed for the old one to be produced, and the whole transaction advertised in several newspapers for six weeks, &c.
To these propositions other objections were started,—that no poor man would be able to obtain security such as that required, as it was a bond that might lie over forever against the obligor; and on the other hand, should it be put into suit, the expense would perhaps exceed the value of the certificate in many cases. Much law knowledge was exhibited from every quarter of the House, and at length Mr. Sedgwick's motion obtained.
After which, Mr. Lawrance proposed to substitute a section for the third clause, which was negatived.
The committee having rose and reported the bill with amendments, it was taken up in the House and underwent some further deliberation, until the time of adjournment; so that this bill is still open for debate.
V E R M O N T.
B E N N I N G T O N, November 7.
By a gentleman from the northward, we are informed, that a man in Orwell, who was going some distance from home to a field to work, left orders for one of his children to fetch him some dinner; he waited till late in the afternoon, and the child not coming, he set out after him, when, shocking to relate, he found the child dead and the corpse half devoured—done as was supposed by a bear. Search was made to find the voracious animal, but to no purpose.
The same gentleman informs, that upwards of 40 bears have been killed within twenty miles of the above-mentioned place.
M A S S A C H U S E T T S.
P O R T L A N D, November 10.
Tuesday last arrived here, the snow Eliza, Capt. Jackson, belonging to Portsmouth, N. H. in 30 days from Cape-Francois in Hispaniola.—Capt. Jackson has brought back the cargo he carried out from Portsmouth, which was lumber.
By Captain Jackson we learn that the white inhabitants are in a most deplorable situation. The whites do not consist of more than 3000 strong, exclusive of Americans and others detained there by the embargo. The negroes consist of more than 30,000, and it was, daily expected they would attack the town.
Provisions of all kinds were very plenty and cheap. About 50 sail of American vessels were at the Cape when the Eliza failed; and those whose cargoes were, in their nature, perishable, going to destruction.
Cape-Francois and the country for 20 miles round, now exhibits a scene shocking to humanity! The negroes perpetrate the most unheard of and barbarous deeds: No one who is so unfortunate as to fall into their hands, escapes their cruelty.
A dragoon in the army of M. de Rouvray, commander of the troops in Hispaniola, in the midst of action, perceived a negro carrying off a standard belonging to the whites, he pursues him full speed, darts through the body of the negroes, who were flying, striking to the right and left, follows up his aim, perceives him enter a house filled with negroes, he does not desist, pursues, arrives. Eight steps at the entrance of the house do not stop him, ascends them on horseback, sword in hand, and in the midst of the crowd singles out the negro he was pursuing, kills him on the spot, and returns to the camp with the standard.
B O S T O N, November 3.
A Correspondent would observe, that he hopes the present high price for flax, will induce our brethren in the country to pay more attention to the cultivation of it, as the increase of our manufactures causes an additional demand for that article.—The Boston Sail-Cloth Factory alone, could work up three hundred thousand weight annually, was it in their power to procure that quantity. So that the cultivators of it need be under no apprehension of over-stocking the market.
A country can never be said to be really independent, while they are obliged to have recourse to other nations, not only for the articles necessary to fail their ships, but for their own cloathing; we have the remedy within ourselves if the Farmers would exert themselves on their part, as the cultivation of the raw material ought ever to go hand in
hand with the manufacturer. The Woolen Manu-factories at Watertown and elsewhere, have been subjected to every discouragement for want of sufficient supply of Wool;—and the Sail-Cloth Manufactures have suffered great inconvenience and losses on account of the scarcity of Flax: that unless more ample supply is offered, there will be great danger that those valuable institutions may be lost to the country.
The harvest, the latter as well as the former, has amply rewarded the toil of the husbandman. The increase of all the blessings which providence ever bestowed on a people, is beyond all calculation, in the United States, and the united voices of four eastern states, will, on the 17th instant, render public homage and thanksgiving therefor, to the author of every gift.
GOOD NEWS!—If true. [The Editor feels some reluctance in communicating the following, lest it should not be authentic. He received it from a gentleman at Halifax. The Editor is happy to announce intelligence, but would not willingly be the medium of public deception. After suggesting his doubts, he lays before the public the following.]
Extract of a Letter from Halifax, September 24, 1791. "A new act of Parliament* has lately passed, which the collector is possessed of, which admits of a free intercourse in American bottoms with all the British West India Islands, and the collector says, he is also advised, the same privileges are to be permitted the Americans here."
* This must mean, if any thing real, an order of the King in Council, as he has power to regulate the trade between the United States and the English Islands and Colonies.
G E O R G I A.
G E O R G I A, October 24.
We the Grand Federal Inquest for the district of Georgia, do make the following presentments.
1. We present the Excise Law passed during the last session of Congress, so far as it respects spirits distilled within the United States, the same appearing to us as partial and unjust in the highest degree; inasmuch as, if an excise on liquors made in the U. S. was necessary to answer the demands of government, it ought in justice to have been general, and hence cyder and malt liquors should have been included.
2. We present the want of a Bill of rights clearly defining the reserved rights of the several states comprehended in the guarantee of a republican form of government to each state by the constitution of the United States.
3. We present as a grievance, that Congress have laid heavy duties on many of the most essential necessaries used in the southern states, which duties operate merely as a bounty and encouragement to the manufactories in the most opulent northern states.
4. We present as a grievance, that an allowance in lieu of a drawback on the duty of salt made use of in curing dried and pickled fish and salted provisions, exported from the United States for private emolument, is granted; whilst that on salt consumed in the United States and absolutely necessary for the consumption of the inhabitants, is exacted and collected.
5. We present as a grievance every measure of the general government by which the territorial rights of this state are or may be infringed.
6. We present as a grievance, that the citizens of this state should be held to bail on account of monies due to British subjects whose debts or property are confiscated for the use of this state. Mr. James Spalding having informed the Grand Jury he stands in this predicament.
7. We present as a grievance the expensiveness of the present Judiciary Department of the United States.
8. We present as a grievance the want of a bankrupt law.
John Powell, foreman; Robert Williamson, John Morrison, Edward Watts, James Jones, H. Lawson, Thomas Carter, William Blob, B. Carching, John Oliver, William Strokes, William Freeman, Henry Arrington, William Wallace, William Urquhart, Britton Dawson, Chesley Boltwick, John Courie.
C O N N E C T I C U T.
H A R T F O R D, Nov. 7.
Applications are making to the Legislature for a purchase of the Western Lands belonging to the state, so that the state may now reap some benefit from them. But it is feared that the same mad policy, which has hitherto prevented the sale of them, will govern the legislature; and that under pretence of holding them till they rise in value, they will be held till the rage for speculation is over, till the monied men have vested their money in other lands or enterprizes, and then a few designing men will have an opportunity of purchasing these lands cheap.
L I T C H F I E L D, November 9.
In the course of the session many important matters came before the Assembly, which were referred for further consideration, to the Assembly to be holden in May next. Among others, where the report of a committee on petition of the sufferers in the sea-port towns, by the inroads and depredations of the British in the late war; stating their suf-

ferings by loss of property to amount to nearly 300,000.—and an offer of 350,000 dollars, for a quit claim of the territory claimed by this state, south of Lake-Erie—an act regulating the militia of this state—with others of less consequence. The bill for dividing the state into seven districts; each to choose one Member of Congress, was taken back, after considerable discussion.
P E N N S Y L V A N I A.
PHILADELPHIA, November 16.
It appears from the best information from Cape-Francois, that the island of Hispaniola must be lost for some time; the force not being sufficient by any means to disperse, much less conquer the revolted. The American property at the island, which is of a perishable nature, must be intirely lost: no kind of provisions are wanting, it is uncertain whether the Cape is not at the mercy of the revolted when they choose to make a small sacrifice. All agree that the island can never be recovered but by a great and early exertion of France.
Much has been said about making the Post-Office the medium of news and information to the people: and it seems to be the general sentiment that, if it is practicable, this medium should be adopted for this truly patriotic purpose. It is however said, that there are very great obstacles in the way—the expence is the most formidable—another is, that it will interfere with that dispatch so necessary to give satisfaction to the mercantile interest, which is considered as the great support of the Post-Office department; and whose convenience and accommodation ought therefore to be primarily consulted. With respect to the expence, it may be presumed, that if news-papers were particularly specified in the contracts for transporting the mails, those contracts might be made on nearly the present terms; and it is universally supposed, that punctuality in receiving the papers, would induce every person cheerfully to pay such a sum over and above the subscription, as would amply compensate the deputy Post-masters for the small addition to their business, which a more particular attention than is now paid would occasion. A separate portmanteau, and separate accounts, would prevent an interference with the letters; which ought always to receive the first attention. At present, it is a mere matter of courtesy, according to the existing resolutions of Congress, that newspapers, even exchange papers between Printers, are permitted to be sent by the mail—this is so generally known, that the idea of property is scarcely ever affixed to them; at least after they once leave the Post-Office. It seems as if it was proper that the Printers should know on what ground they stand; for their present indulgence in regard to distant subscribers, is illusory and destructive to them, and proves a vexatious deception and discouragement to their patrons.
Previous to the attack of the Negro camp, on the 27th of September last, at Gallifaut Plantation, the government of Hispaniola at Cape-Francois, had received intimation of the good disposition of many of the rebel blacks to return to their duty; provided they could be assured of their lives. This disposition, which was founded on the circumstance of a parley between a small party of the citizens and the rebels about the 20th of that month, being made known to the Executive Power, induced him, as well from principles of humanity, as from the interest of the public, on the 23d to issue the following.
PROCLAMATION.
Philibert Francois Rouxel De Blanchelande, Representative of the King at St. Domingo, to the revolted Negroes in the North.
The Representative of the King requires you, in the name of the French nation, in the name of that King whom you love and of humanity, to relinquish your insurrection, to retire all of you to your houses, and to resume your work.
You have acted very criminally. The massacre of your masters, the burning their lands and houses, are atrocious.—Heaven and Earth will be irritated against you; you will think that you merit, while living, a severe punishment before that which awaits you hereafter, if you persist in your wicked intention.
I will declare and promise to you, however, as the Representative of the King, that nothing will be done to you, if you return to your habitations, with the firm resolution to live peaceably there, and to submit to your masters.
I engage to those good Negroes, who have been misled by designing and wicked companions, to give them my protection, and to procure the pardon of their masters, who, notwithstanding the injuries which they have received, will receive them as fathers and benefactors.
I swear to you most solemnly, that I will faithfully keep my word to you in all which I have promised, if, when you understand the orders which the King gives you through me, you immediately submit.
Tremble, however, unhappy men, if you persist in your horrible revolt.—You will meet no mercy.—Every where the troops which I now command, and those which arrive at St. Domingo from the Havanna, from Jamaica, New-England, &c. will exterminate you without pity, as well as the free negroes and mulattoes who are armed to march against you. Therefore choose death or pardon.
I give you from this time till to-morrow night to return an answer. You may send negroes to treat with me, to whom I promise safe conduct; and for which I give you my word, which is as sacred as that of the King.
Cape-Francois, Sept. 23, 1791.
Many copies of the above were sent to the camp
of the rebels.—But from the circumstances which followed, it is probable the Chiefs took care that the proclamation should not be circulated in the army: for, after the time set for receiving the answer from the Negroes had expired, a deputation of 12 dragoons (among whom were two Mulattoes) were sent with a commission to obtain it; but unfortunately, having advanced within the lines of the enemy, they were set upon and fired at by a large party, which seemed to be sent for the purpose of coming to terms. Five of the dragoons were killed on the spot, and two taken prisoners; the remaining five happily escaped. The sentiments of the rebels being publicly acknowledged by this piece of cruelty, dispositions were made to attack them in their camp, which was accordingly done on the morning of the 29th. The success of this assault, which lasted one hour and a half, we have before announced. On the entry of the victorious army into the camp, the two dragoons above mentioned were found with their throats cut, still bleeding fresh. It is generally thus that these more than savages have acted with those who have been so ill-fated as to fall into their hands—and in this manner the once flourishing colony of St. Domingo continues to bleed by the hands of insatuated Africans, who have, doubtless, been led on by emissaries to act this scene of murder and desolation.
Nov. 25. Captain Roe of the brig James, and Captain McKeever, of the brig _____, arrived yesterday from Cape-Francois, confirm the accounts brought by Captain Jones, of the Commerce. Flour was on the 3d inst. at the Cape, 4 1/2 dollars and pork at 16. The white people had no hopes of victory, unless troops arrive from France to their assistance.
Nov. 28. On the second of November arrived at Charleston, the brig Hope, Capt. Suter, from Newry, with 120 passengers, who it is said, have come to settle in the more interior parts of South-Carolina.
P I T T S B U R G, November 5.
About ten or twelve days ago, two men were killed on the Kiskiminetas river, which empties into the Alleghany river some distance from this place, by the Indians. It is not known what tribe they were of, but generally supposed to be Munsees. This has alarmed that neighbourhood a good deal, and several families have removed into the settlement, for fear there should be other parties out, which they have reason to suppose from accounts they received from Reed's station, to that effect.
M A R Y L A N D.
B A L T I M O R E, Dec. 2.
A letter lately received from Charleston (S.C.) mentions, that the rice crops of the present season, are much larger than were ever before known in Carolina. The immense annual increase in the production of this useful article, so much in demand all over Europe, may be owing to the following causes:—1st. The growing use of machines for beating out the rice; and 2dly, The introduction of ploughs in the room of hoes—by these two improvements, a surplus of negroes can be spared for preparing the rich swamp lands for rice fields, who were heretofore employed in beating out the rice by hand, or by tediously turning up the lands with the hoe. Another cause may be (contrary to what is observed of the West-Indies) that by good and humane usage, the number of blacks are found to increase instead of diminishing; so that, while this continues to be the case, there can be no reason for engaging in the African trade to keep the old stock good, as has ever been the practice in the islands.
The following gentlemen are appointed to the several offices affixed to their names, in the National Bank of the United States, with their salaries.
John Kean, Cashier, 2700 dollars. George Simpson, 1st Teller, 1500. Gulian McLean, 2d ditto, 1000. Wm. Lawrence, 1st. Book-keeper, 1000. John Rudd, 2d ditto, 800. Philip Eak, Discount Clerk, 600. Gust. Ruby, Runner, 600.
V I R G I N I A.
R I C H M O N D, November 11.
By a gentleman from Kentucky we are informed that the Indians on the 4th of last month, fired on a party of six men, who were driving a parcel of cattle to the Muskington settlement: and killed four, wounded one, and took one prisoner; the wounded man escaped, who had many bullet holes shot through his clothes.—Amongst the number killed, was a Mr. Nicholas Carpenter, who has left a family to bemoan his loss.
A few days before the above affair, a man was killed near the little Hockhockkin, and a Negro boy taken off from the little Kanawha, who since escaped and got home.
Nov. 18. Tuesday last a set race was run for over a course near this city, by two of Medley's colts, the property of John Tayloe, and Peter Randolph, Esquires, for three hundred guineas (three four mile heats) depositing 100 guineas at the commencement of each heat; and was won with ease by the horse belonging to Peter Randolph, Esq.
On Wednesday another purse of a smaller sum was run for over the same course by six horses, the best two in three, (two miles heats) the first heat was taken by a horse of Mr. Tayloe's, and the other two by a horse started by Mr. Nicholas Syms.
The following criminals who received sentence of death from the Judge of the district court at Williamsburg, were on Friday last executed near the above place, viz. William Smith John Driver, and Emanuel Driver; from Matthews county, for burglary.
SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, December 6.
Saturday morning arrived here a Gentleman directly from the Crab-Orchards, Kentucky, which place he left the 15th ult. and by whom we received the Lexington Gazette , dated November 12, 1791, from which we have extracted the following
Melancholy News.
Copy of a circular Letter from Brigadier General SCOTT, to the different County Lieutenants in Kentucky.
LEXINGTON, November 11, 1791.
SIR.
WE have now received certain intelligence that the army have been defeated.—The loss is very great.—The garrison at Fort Jefferson is intercepted, and many, many brave wounded gallant men are now left on the road, unable to travel, and without any provisions but the flesh of their pack-horses.—This case requires immediate exertions. I have appointed a rendezvous of volunteers at Craig's mill the 15th inst. completely equipped with arms and ammunition, and 20 days provisions,—I trust that no exertions on your part will be wanting, when the safety of our country and the lives of brave men are in danger.—The circumstances require the greatest dispatch, and no friend to his country can now be idle.
Believe me with respect, yours, &c.
** The volunteers who are not ready by the 15th inst. are to follow as soon as possible.
By sundry gentlemen who have arrived in town since Thursday last, we have the melancholy account of the defeat of the army under General St. Clair.—They say the attack was made by the Indians on the morning of the 4th inst. at day-break, and continued about four hours—that we left 46 commissioned officers killed and 25 wounded, and about 600 privates, besides pack-horses, drivers, bullocks, &c. 8 pieces of cannon, and all the baggage.
The following is a list of the Officers said to be killed and wounded.
K I L L E D.
General Butler—Col. Oldham—Majors Brown, Hart, Clark, Ferguson.—Captains Bradford, Tipton, Smith, Purdie, Newman, Phelon, Kirkwood, Peatt, Price, Swearingen, Cribbs and Guthrie.—Lieutenants Warren, Spencer, Lukins, M'Nickle, M'Math, Hopper, Reed, Kelso, Boyd, and 2 others.—Ensigns Beatty, Cobbs, Balth, Brooks, Chase, Turner, Purdie, and 2 others.—Quarter-Masters Ward, Reynolds, and Sample.—Adjutants Anderson, Burgess, besides Militia Officers—Dr. Grayson.
W O U N D E D.
Colonels Gibson and Dark.—Major Butler.—Captains Ford, Doyle, Dark, Buchanan, Madison, Trueman, Slough, and 3 others.—Lieutenants Duberts, Price, Greathouse, Crawford, M'Crea, and 2 others.—Ensigns Morgan, Bines, and 4 others.—Dr. Gano.—Total 44 killed, 26 wounded.
On Saturday last the Indians killed two men on the Ohio, between Locust-creek and the mouth of Licking.
We were informed by the gentleman who favoured us with the foregoing particulars, that the unfortunate action took place at or near the Maumee;—that no account of the fate of the wounded had been received when he left the Crab-Orchards—that General Butler being wounded in the action, was taken to his marquee, but being in an exposed situation, it was beset by several Indians who tomahawked him and the Doctor who was employed in dressing him; General St. Clair was also said to have been present at the time, but fortunately made his escape.
Our informant could not learn the force of the savages at the time of the action, but it was said there were many whites among them.
Reports within a few days past say, that the army under Gen. St. Clair, retreated from the Maumee in good order—others, that upon being defeated, and finding their retreat intercepted, they immediately took to flight in different directions, leaving their wounded exposed to the horrid tortures of the savages—but as the gentleman from the Crab-Orchard gave us no such information, and he being the latest from that quarter, we must pronounce them premature.
The President of the United States has appointed by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, Richard Harriston, merchant, of Alexandria, to be Auditor in the treasury department of the United States, vice Oliver Wolcott, jun. appointed Comptroller.
Left with the Printer, for sale, price 8d. a pamphlet, entitled, The Third Vision of SUSANNAH WILLIAMS, now living in Virginia; which happened the 26th of January, 1787; being a true copy, as delivered from her own mouth. Also, another pamphlet, entitled, The Vision of a Lady of family and fortune, of the city of Bristol; who was favored with a sight of the Glories of Heaven, and the horrors of darkness.

SEAT OF THE MUSES.
For the POTOMAC GUARDIAN.
An HYMN.
To the Tune COLUMBIA by Leontine.
FLEE gloomy dejection, my thoughts mount the sky And realms ever peaceful transported descry; Where joys bloom eternal, t' enrapture the soul, And rivers of pleasure incessantly roll.
Where sorrow and sighing can never infest, Nor Satan harafs, nor the wicked molest; But where rest perpetual the weary obtain, Their harvest of joy and their consummate gain.
Ere long, when these shadows shall all be with- drawn, Extinguish'd before the glad light of the dawn, That rises to scatter the mourner's sad gloom, And bury forever his woes, in the tomb:
I too shall inherit the heavenly prize, To scenes of bright glory immortal arise, With rapture ineffable join the blest throng, And fill'd with new wonders unite in their song.
If such be my portion, why should I complain, Why cherish despondence, why sadness retain? Is sorrow becoming an heir of the skies, That shortly to bliss so unbounded will rise?—
No longer I'll murmur, no longer repine, But go 'midst these troubles since Heaven is mine; Then deep in oblivion be sunk every care, And ras'd from my bosom each trace of despair.
How glorious the scheme, that such grace can dif- pence, A hope so exalted and bliss so immense! It fills me with transports, my joys overflow, Too big for expression, extatic they grow!—
O, aid me ye Angels, its wonders to tell; And rapt on the theme in full symphony dwell; But still it enhances, nor Angels can scan, For myst'ries on myst'ries form wondrous the plan.
EXTRACT.
ALL Men would be happy, says St. Evremont; but in order to be perfectly so, they should endeavour to make others happy as well as them- selves. 'Tis this right management of his happi- ness both for himself and others, which we call Kindness and Civility, that makes a Man esteem'd and belov'd. And to attain this Quality in any high degree he must have an excellent Mind and a well disposed Heart, and both consenting and a- greeing in the same thing: By the excellence of his Mind, he knows what is most just and reasonable for him to say and do; and by the goodness of his Heart, he is always inclin'd to say and do what he knows to be so. When these two Qualities meet in one Person, how great, and equitable, and charm- ing do they appear! The Man that is posses'd of them, is kind, and courteous, and beneficial, sen- sible of other people's Misfortunes, disinterested, cir- cumpect, touch'd with true Merit,—sensible of others Faults, but never blazing them; civil, agree- able, good company, &c. This is the first refem- blance to the qualities, which Gracian makes neces- sary to merit the Esteem and Love of Mankind.
To be sold by PUBLIC AUCTION, At the Subscriber's dwelling-place, Berkeley County, near his mill on Opeckon,
Cattle, Horses, and
Waggon, for which I purpose to give nine months credit, on giving bond with approved security.
A L S O,
A large quantity of good
FATTED PORK,
And a number of SHEEP, for ready cash. The Sale will be on WEDNESDAY the 14th day of DECEMBER next, beginning precisely at TEN o'clock, at which place and time, due attendance will be given, by
JOHN DANIEL.
November 23, 1791.
To the Gentlemen of SHEPHERD'S-TOWN, and its vicinity.
A SUBSCRIPTION is left open to purchasers of Lots in the Town of WOODSTOCK, in the hands of the Printer hereof; and as sundry Gentle- men in this Town have already purchased Lots there, any person wishing to purchase can be in- formed by them of the terms on which they are sold. Their favours in so doing, will be gratefully ac- knowledged, and subscriptions diligently attended to, by their humble servant,
JOHN HOPWOOD.
Shepherd's-Town, November 25, 1791.
WHEREAS the Subscriber some time since, gave a Bond to FRANCIS HARVEY, for one hundred pounds, bearing date in February, one thou- sand seven hundred and seventy-nine;—as the said Harvey is absent, and as I have a full receipt against said Bond, I hereby forewarn all persons from tak- ing an assignment thereof, as I shall not be answer- able therefor in any manner whatever.
WILLIAM LEMEN.
November 26, 1791.
Notice!
ALL Persons who are indebted to the estate of JOHN FISHER, deceased, are desired to come in immediately and make payment, otherwise they may expect the law will be put in force a- gainst them. Those who have just claims against the said estate are also desired to bring in their ac- counts to have them settled.
MARY FISHER.
Berkeley County, November 10, 1791.
WAS lost about three weeks since, a bundle of PALETS, containing a bond, some ac- counts, &c. &c. belonging to the Subscriber. Who- ever has found the same and will return it to the owner at Martinsburg, shall have TWO DOLLARS, and thanks.
WILLIAM BRADY.
Nov. 28, 1791.
WHEREAS Elizabeth Franceway, the wife of me the Subscriber, eloped from my bed and board on the evening of the 20th instant, with- out any just cause on my part—this is to forewarn all and every person from paying any money to her on my account, or trusting or dealing with her in any manner whatever, as I will pay no debt of her contracting, after this date.
JOSEPH FRANCEWAY.
Berkeley County, November 21, 1791.
To be SOLD, or LET, and entered upon immediately,
A Merchant-Mill,
Known by the name of Hite & Gibbs's Mill, situate eight miles from Winchester, near the road leading to Shep- herd's-Town. For terms, apply to Mr. James Gibbs, at the Clerk's office, Winchester, to Mrs. Gibbs, on the premises, or to
ALEXANDER WHITE.
Woodsville, October 1, 1791.
A Mill for sale.
BY Virtue of a Decree of the Court of BERKELEY COUNTY, and State of VIRGINIA, will be exposed to sale by PUBLIC VENDUE, upon the first day of February next, if fair, if not the next fair day, a MERCHANT-MILL, with the Lot, Prem- ises, and Buildings thereunto belonging, late the property of HENRY COOKS, deceased, and now in the possession of CHRISTIAN ORENDORFF.
Also, the Stone Dwelling-House, and Ground-Rents of the said estate, late of the said COOKS, deceased, all situate in Shepherd's-Town, in the County and State aforesaid.
The terms of sale will be, one third part of the purchase money to be paid in twelve months from the day of sale, one other third part within two years after the day of sale, and the remaining third part within three years after the day of sale.
By order of the Court.
JOHN KEARSLEY,
HENRY BEDINGER. } Trustees.
BERKELEY COUNTY, July 25, 1791.
Gm.
Wanted immediately,
BY the Subscriber, living near Opeckon-Creek, between Light's mill and the Swan-Ponds, two good Journeymen SHOE-MAKERS, who shall have constant employ and good wages, from
AARON FARIS.
Berkeley County, October 24, 1791.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of Mr. Andrew Coldwell, jun. deceased, are requested to make payment; and those who have any de- mands against the same, are likewise requested to bring them in, as an immediate settlement of the a- bove estate is intended.
CHARLES McDONALD, Executor.
October 15, 1791.
TO BE RENTED, A VERY GOOD HOUSE,
With a good Celler under it, fit for a Store, it being the best place for that business to be found in the neighbourhood. It is ten miles from Winchester, on the great road leading from that place to Alex- andria. Any person renting said House, may be furnished with other conveniences, such as boarding for a clerk, a lumber house, &c.
THOMAS GRAHAM.
THE SUBSCRIBER Begs leave to inform his friends and the Public in general, That he carries on the
Copper and Tin
B U S I N E S S,
In Shepherd's-Town, where those who choose to fa- vour him with their custom, may depend on being duly attended, and their commands gratefully ac- knowledged. Those that have favoured him with employment, he returns the most sincere thanks.
All sorts of Kitchen Furniture are tin'd and re- pair'd in the neatest manner and on the most reason- able terms, by their humble servant,
JOHN WATERS.
N. B. Old Copper, Brass, Pewter and Lead, bought or exchanged.
November 21, 1791.
Stop the Thief!
SIX POUNDS REWARD.
STOLEN from the Subscriber, living on the great road between Middletown and the Maryland Tract, a yellow-bay Mare, about fourteen and half hands high, branded on the near shoulder thus P. K. shod before, with a small star in her forehead, with a number of saddle spots on each side her back, a long switch tail, with grey hairs, trots and canters, about 5 or 6 years old. Whoever takes up said Mare and thief, so that the owner gets his Mare a- gain, and the thief brought to conviction, shall re- ceive, if twenty miles from home, four dollars, if forty miles, six dollars, if sixty miles, three pounds, and if one hundred, the above reward for mare and thief, and three pounds for the Mare only, and all reasonable charges paid, if brought home, by me
JACOB GYER.
Frederick County, State of Maryland Nov. 17, 1791.
At a Court of Quarter Sessions, held for Berkeley County, on the third Tuesday in August, 1791.
Leonard Davis, } Compt. against William Worthington and Nancy } In Chancery, his wife, and Sarah Wilson, Defis.
THE Defendants not having entered their ap- pearance agreeable to an Act of Assembly, and according to the rules of this Court, and it ap- pearing to the satisfaction of the Court that they are no inhabitants of this County, on the motion of the Complainant, by his Council, Ordered, That the said Defendants do appear here on the third Tues- day in November next, to answer the bill of the Com- plainant, and that a copy of this order be forthwith inserted in the Virginia Gazette for two months successively, and published at the Church in the Pa- rish of Norborne, in the County aforesaid, on some Sunday after divine service, and also at the Court- House door of the said County.
A com. T. R. MOSES HUNTER. c. b. c.
Wanted immediately, A GOOD
Journeymen Taylor
To whom 3s. Pennsylvania currency, per job, will be given, and constant employ.
GEORGE TILLEY.
Martinsburg, Nov. 19, 1791.
W A N T E D, One or two JOURNEYMEN shoe-Makers,
To whom good wages, and steady employ will be given. Inquire of the Printer.
TO BE SOLD, A Likely Negro wench,
About 28 years old, with her male child in its 4th year, and the wench now pregnant. She has been brought up chiefly to house work, can spin well on either wheel, and is a good hand at plantation work. For further particulars, inquire of the Printer.
On Monday the 19th of December next, Will be sold at PUBLIC AUCTION, At the Plantation of JOSEPH DAVIS, near Sharpsburg, Washington County, Maryland, a quantity of good
Indian Corn, Wheat,
Rye, Tobacco in the house, Hay, Straw, Corn Fod- der, some live Stock, Plantation Utensils, House hold and Kitchen Furniture, and a variety of other articles too tedious to mention.
The sale will begin at ten o'clock—the terms of which will be made known on the day of sale.
JOSEPH DAVIS.
October 27.
F O R S A L E, By the Printer hereof, Blank Deeds of Bargain and Sale, Lawyers Declarations of every Kind,