The Patowmac guardian, and Berkeley advertiser (Shepherdstown, Va. [W. Va.]), 1791-10-17 00:00:00

The POTOMAC GUARDIAN, and BERKELEY ADVERTISER.
PRICE TWO DOLLARS PER ANN.]
MONDAY, OCTOBER 17, 1791.
[NUMBER 49 OF VOL. I.]
WHERE LIBERTY DWELLS, THERE IS MY COUNTRY.
Franklin.
Robinson, Sanderson and Co.
HAVE JUST RECEIVED PER THE NANCY, FROM WHITEHAVEN, A further supply of FALL GOODS, Which, with their former importation by the LANDASTER, makes their assortment very complete. Alexandria, September 28, 1791.
8 Dollars Reward.
STOLEN out of my pasture on the night of the 27th of September last, a HORSE of a colour between a sorrel and a roan, half blooded, seven years old, about 14 hands high, with a star in his forehead, has his mane trimmed, no him to brand perceivable, and was shod before.—
Whoever will take up said Horse and return me, living three miles from Martinsburg, shall have Four Dollars reward, or Eight Dollars for the Horse and Thief.
ROBERT CREIGHTON, Berkeley-County, October 6, 1791.
The Subscriber has received, A fresh supply of
FALL GOODS,
To his former assortment, which he is determined to sell low, as he intends removing from this place:—Therefore all those indebted to him are requested to make payment.
ROGER COLTART. Shepherd's-Town, October 9, 1791.
THE GRAND LODGE of VIRGINIA are requested to meet in the City of Richmond, on Friday, the 28th of October, 1791.
THE MASTER and WARDENS of the Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Virginia, will please to attend to the above notice, it being a half yearly Grand Communication, to be holden at the Mason's-Hall in this City. Matters of considerable importance will then be laid before the Grand Lodge, together with other business, which at the last grand communication was deferred, owing to the small number of Lodges then represented.
It is therefore requested, that no further delays, for want of a regular deputation from a sufficient number of Lodges may take place, and that a pointed attendance from all the Lodges will be given.
By the Grand Master's Command, BASIL WOOD, G. Sec'y. A. L. 5791.
Richmond, Sept. 17, A. D. 1791.
5 Pounds Reward.
ESCAPED out of the subscriber's custody, some time in the month of May, a negro man named JACOB, who calls himself a freeman. Jacob is a low, well-made fellow, remarkably black, stoops a little in the neck, large head, small short chin, and has lost two teeth before, out of the right or left side of the upper jaw—this negro has been seen in Berkeley County, in the possession of a Mr. BURDICE, who claims him as his property. Whoever takes up said Negro, and conveys him to the keeper of the gaol of Prince-William County, or the subscriber's house at Dumfries, in said County, shall receive the above reward, and all reasonable charges.
YELVERTON PEYTON, Sheriff, (Prince-William County.
October 8, 1791.
F O R S A L E, By the Printer hereof,
Blank Deeds of Bargain and Sale, Lawyers Declarations of every Kind, Common Bonds, Blank Notes, &c.
PHILADELPHIA.
Gen. Wilkinson's Expedition.
Authentic Report of Lieut. Colonel Commandant WILKINSON, to his Excellency Gov. St. Clair, containing the particulars of the late Expedition against L'Anguille, and the Indians on the Wabash.
Frankfort, on Kentucky,
August 24th, 1791.
SIR, HAVING carried into complete effect the enterprize which you were pleased to direct against L'Anguille, and having done the savages every damage on the Wabash to which I conceived my force adequate, I embrace the first moment's recess from active duty, to detail to your Excellency the operations of the expedition intrusted to my conduct.
I left the neighbourhood of Fort-Washington on the first inst. at one o'clock, and agreeable to my original plan, feinted boldly at the Miami villages, by the most direct course the nature of the ground, over which I had to march, would permit; I persevered in this plan until the morning of the 4th inst. and thereby avoided the hunting ground of the enemy, and the paths which lead direct from White River to the Wabash, leaving the head waters of the first to my left; I then being about seventy miles advanced of Fort-Washington, turned north-west. I made no discovery until the 5th, about 9 o'clock, A. M. when I crossed three much frequented paths within two miles of each other, and all bearing east of north; my guides were urgent for me to follow these paths, which betrayed their ignorance of the country, and convinced me I had to depend on my own judgment only. In the afternoon of that day, I was obliged to cross a deep bog, which injured several of my horses exceedingly, and a few miles beyond I struck a path bearing north by west, marked by the recent footsteps of five or six savages. My guides renewed their application to me to follow this path, but I pursued my course which had been N. 60 W. since 2 o'clock. I had not got clear of my encampment next morning, before my advance reported an impassable bog in our front, extending several miles on either hand, and the guides asserted that the whole country to the Wabash was cut by such bogs, and that it would be impossible for me to proceed unless I followed the Indian paths, which avoided these bogs, or lead through them at places where they were least difficult. Although I paid little regard to this information, as delay was dangerous, and every thing depended on the preservation of my horses, I determined to turn to the right, and fall into the path I had passed the evening before, which varied in its course from N. by W. to N. E. The country had now become pondy, in every direction, I therefore resolved to pursue this path until noon, in the hope that it would conduct me to better ground, or to some devious trace which might lead to the object sought.
At 7 o'clock I crossed an east branch of Calumet River, about 40 yards wide, and about noon my advance guard fired on a small party of warriors, and took a prisoner, the rest run off to the eastward.—I halted about a mile beyond the spot where this affair happened and on examining the prisoner found him to be a Delaware, living near the site of the late Miami village, which he informed me was about 30 miles distant; I immediately retrograded four miles, and filed off by the right over some rising ground which I had observed between the east branch of Calumet river and a creek four or five miles advance of it, taking my course N. 60 W. This measure fortunately extricated me from the bogs and ponds, and soon placed me on firm ground; late in the afternoon I crossed one path running from N. to S. and shortly after fell into another varying from N. W. by W. I pursued this about two miles, when I encamped—but finding it still inclined northward, I determined to abandon it in the morning.
I resumed my march on the 6th at four o'clock, the Calumet being to the westward of me, I was fearful I should strike the Wabash too high up, and perhaps fall in with the small town, which you mentioned to me, at the mouth of the former river. I therefore steered a due West course, and 6 o'clock A. M. crossed a road, much used both by horse and foot, bearing due North. I now knew that I was near a Shawanese Village, generally supposed to be on the waters of White River, but actually on those of the Calumet, and was sensible that every thing depended on the celerity and silence of my movements, as my real object had become manifest. I therefore pushed my march vigorously, leaving an officer and 20 men in ambush, to watch the road in order to intercept or beat off any party of the enemy which might casually be passing that way, and thereby prevent as long as possible, the discovery of my real intentions.
At 8 o'clock I crossed Calumet river, now 80 yards wide, and running down NNW and pursuing my course, I crossed one path near the western bank of the river, taking the same course, and at 6 miles
distance another bearing to the NE. I was now sensible from my reckoning compared with my own observations, during the late expedition under general Scott, and the information received from your excellency and others, that I could not be very distant from L'Anguille. The party left at the road soon fell in with four warriors encamped half a mile from the right of my line of march, killed one and drove off the others to the northward. My situation had now become extremely critical, the whole country to the north being in alarm, which made me greatly anxious to continue my march during the night, but I had no path to direct me, and it was impossible to keep my course, or for horsemen to march through a thick swampy country, in utter darkness. I quitted my camp on the 7th, as soon as I could see my way, crossed one path at three miles distance bearing NE. and at 7 miles I fell into another very much used, bearing NW by N. which I at once adopted, as the direct route to my object, and pushed forward with the utmost dispatch. I halted at twelve o'clock to refresh the horses, and examine the men's arms and ammunition; marched again at half after one, and at 15 minutes before five I struck the Wabash, at one and a half leagues above the mouth of Eel River, being the very spot for which I had aimed from the commencement of my march.—I crossed the river, and following the path a N by E course, at the distance of two and a half miles my reconnoitring party announced Eel River in front, and the town on the opposite bank, I dismounted, ran forward and examined the situation of the town as far as was practicable, without exposing myself, but the whole face of the country from the Wabash to the margin of Eel river, being a continued thicket of brambles, black jacks, weeds and shrubs of different kinds, it was impossible for me to get a satisfactory view without endangering a discovery.—I immediately determined to post two companies near the bank of the river opposite to the town, and above the ground I then occupied, to make a detour with Major Caldwell, and the second battalion, until I fell into the Miami Trace, and by that route to cross the river above, and gain the rear of the town, and to leave directions with Major McDowell, who commanded the first battalion, to lie perdu until I commenced the attack, then to dash through the river with his corps and the advanced, and assault the houses in front and upon the left. In the moment that I was about to put this arrangement into execution, word was brought me that the enemy had taken the alarm, and were flying. I instantly ordered a general charge which was obeyed with alacrity, the men forcing their way over every obstacle, plunged through the river with vast intrepidity. The enemy was unable to make the smallest resistance. Six warriors and (in the hurry and confusion of the charge) two squaws and a child were killed, thirty four prisoners were taken, and an unfortunate captive released—with the loss of two men killed, and one wounded. I found this town scattered along Eel river for full three miles, on an uneven scrubby oak barren, intersected alternately by bogs almost impassable, and impervious thickets of plumb, hazel and black jacks. Notwithstanding these difficulties, if I may credit the report of the prisoners, very few who were in the town escaped; expecting a second expedition, their goods were generally packed up or buried. Sixty warriors had crossed the Wabash to watch the paths leading from the Ohio; the head chief, with all the prisoners, and a number of families, were out digging a root which they substitute in the place of the potatoe, and about one hour before my arrival, all the warriors, except eight, had mounted their horses and rode up the river to the French store, to purchase ammunition. This ammunition had arrived from the Miami Village that very day, and the squaws informed me was stored about two miles from the town. I detached Major Caldwell in quest of it, but he failed to make any discovery, although he scoured the country for seven or eight miles up the river. I encamped in the town that night, and the next morning cut up the corn scarcely in the milk, burnt the cabins, and mounted my young warriors, squaws and children in the best manner in my power and leaving two infirm squaws and a child with a short talk (a copy of which I have the honor to inclose you) I commenced my march for the Kickapoo Town in the Prairie. I felt my prisoners a vast incumbrance, but I was not in force to justify a detachment, having barely 523 rank and file, and being then in the bosom of the Ouattanon country, one hundred and eighty miles removed from succour, and not more than one and a half days forced march from the Pattawattamees, Shawanese and Delawares.
Not being able to discover any path in the direct course to the Kickapoo Town, I marched by the road leading to Tippecanoe, in the hope of finding some diverging trace which might favour my design. I encamped that evening about six miles from Kenapacomaqua, the Indian name for the town I had destroyed, and marched next morning at four o'clock. My course continued west till nine o'clock, when I

turned to the north west on a small hunting path, and at a short distance I launched into the boundless Prairies of the west, with the intention to pursue that course, until I could strike a road which leads from the Pattawattamees of Lake Michigan, immediately to the town I sought. With this view I pushed forward, through bog after bog, to the saddle skirts in mud and water, and after persevering for eight hours, I found myself environed on all sides with morasses which forbade my advancing, and at the same time rendered it difficult for me to extricate my little army. The way by which we had entered was so much beat and softened by the horses, that it was almost impossible to return by that route, and my guides pronounced the morass in front impassable. A chain of thin groves extending in the direction to the Wabash, at this time presented to my left, it was necessary I should gain these groves, and for this purpose I dismounted, went forward, and leading my horse thro' a bog to the arm pits in mud and water, with great difficulty and fatigue I accomplished my object, and changing my course to S by W I regained the Tipeacanoes road at five o'clock, and encamped on it at 7 o'clock, after a march of thirty miles, which broke down several of my horses.
I am the more minute in detailing the occurrences of this day, because they produced the most unfavourable effect. I was in motion at four next morning, and at 8 o'clock my advanced guard made some discoveries, which induced me to believe we were near an Indian town, I immediately pushed that body forward on a trot, and followed with Major Caldwell and the 2d battalion, leaving Major McDowell to take charge of the prisoners. I reached Tipeacanoes at 12 o'clock, which had been occupied by the enemy, who watched my motions and abandoned the place that morning. After the destruction of this town in June last, the enemy had returned and cultivated their corn and pulse, which I found in high perfection and in much greater quantity than at L'Anguille.
To refresh my horses and give time to cut down the corn, I determined to halt until the next morning, and then to resume my march to the Kickapoo town, in the Prairie, by the road which leads from Oniattanon to that place. In the course of the day, I had discovered some murmurings and discontent among the men, which I found on enquiry to proceed from their reluctance to advance farther into the enemy's country; this induced me to call for a state of the horses and provisions, when to my great mortification 270 horses were returned lame and tired, with barely five days provisions for the men.
Under these circumstances, I was compelled to abandon my designs upon the Kickapoo of the Prairie; and with a degree of anguish not to be comprehended but by those who have experienced similar disappointments, I marched forward to a town of the same nation, situate about three leagues west of Oniattanon;—as I advanced to that town the enemy made some shew of fighting me, but vanished at my approach. I destroyed this town, consisting of thirty houses, with a considerable quantity of corn in the milk, and the same day I moved on to Oniattanon, where I forded the Wabash, and proceeded to the site of the villages on the margin of the Prairie, where I encamped at 7 o'clock. At this town and the villages destroyed by Gen. Scott, in June, we found the corn had been replanted, and was now in high cultivation, several fields being well ploughed, all which we destroyed,—On the 12th, I resumed my march, and falling into Gen. Scott's return trace, I arrived without any material incident, at the Rapids of Ohio, on the 21st inst. after a march by accurate computation, of 451 miles from Fort-Washington.
The volunteers of Kentucky have, on this occasion, acquitted themselves with their usual good conduct, but as no opportunity offered for individual distinction, it would be unjust to give one the plaudits to which all have an equal title. I cannot, however, in propriety forbear to express my warm approbation of good conduct of my Majors McDowell and Caldwell, and of Col. Russell, who in the character of a volunteer, without commission, led my advance; and I felt myself under obligations to Major Adair and Capt. Parker, who acted immediately about my person, for the services they rendered me, by the most prompt, active and energetic exertions.
The service which I have been able to render, fall short of my wishes, my intention and expectation—but, Sir, when you reflect on the causes which checked my career, and blasted my designs, I flatter myself you will believe every thing has been done, which could be done in my circumstances; I have destroyed the chief town of the Oniattanon nation, and made prisoners, the sons and sisters of the King; I have burnt a respectable Kickapoo village, and cut down at least 430 acres of corn, chiefly in the milk. The Oniattannons left without houses, home or provision, must cease to war, and will get active employ to subsist their squaws and children during the impending winter.
Should these services secure to the country which I immediately represented, and the corps which I had the honor to command, the favourable consideration of government, I shall inter the approbation of my own conduct, which, added, to a consciousness of having done my duty, will constitute the richest reward I can enjoy.
Mr. Charles Vancouver will have the honor to deliver this letter to your Excellency, who attended me as quartermaster to the expedition, and rendered me important services. He is able to give a satisfactory idea of the situation of the country over which I passed, and can ascertain with precision the
course and distance to any point of my route. I recommend him to you as a gentleman of worth.
With the warmest and most perfect respect, I have the honor to be your Excellency's
Obligated, obedient and most faithful servant, JA. WILKINSON.
His Excellency Major Gen. ST. CLAIR, Fort-Washington.
A TALK,
From Lieut.-Colonel-Commandant JAMES WILKINSON, to the INDIAN NATIONS living on the River Wabash, 9th August, 1791.
To the Indian Nations, living on the River Wabash, and its Waters.
THE arms of the United States are again exerted against you & your towns are in flames, and your wives and children made captives: Again you are cautioned to listen to the voice of reason, to sue for peace, and to submit to the protection of the United States, who are willing to become your friends and fathers; but at the same time, are determined to punish you for every injury you offer to their children. Regard not those evil counsellors, who, to secure to themselves the benefits of your trade, advise to measures which involve you, your women and children, in trouble and distress. The United States with to give you peace; because it is good in the eyes of the Great Spirit, that all his children should unite and live like brothers: But if you foolishly prefer war, their warriors are ready to meet you in battle, and will not be the first to lay down the hatchet. You may find your squaws and your children under the protection of our great chief and warrior General ST. CLAIR, at Fort-Washington, to him you will make applications, for an exchange of prisoners, or for peace.
Given under my hand and seal, at Kenapacomaqua, the 9th day of August, 1791.
JAMES WILKINSON. Lieut. Col. Comdt.
MASSACHUSETTS.
SALEM, September 27.
The capital town of Cape-Francois which by the late accounts was in imminent danger of destruction, is large, elegant and very opulent. It is said to contain upwards of 6000 houses, and between 50 and 60,000 inhabitants, three quarters of whom are Negroes—a circumstance highly unfavourable in the present conjuncture.
NEW-YORK.
NEW-YORK, October 5.
The British Packet, Lord Hyde, Captain Jones, arrived in this port yesterday, in 47 day from Falmouth. This vessel brings accounts from Europe, to August 15. We do not find that any thing alarming has taken place in Europe, since our last dates.
PENNSYLVANIA.
PHILADELPHIA, October 5.
Friday, the 30th of September, the time limited by law for receiving Subscriptions to the Loan of the United States, expired. On that day, we are informed, that Subscriptions for a Million of Dollars were received, and the public offices were kept open till 12 o'clock at night.
The plan for funding the Continental Debt appears to have received a very general approbation—of the twenty-seven millions estimated in the report of the Secretary of the Treasury, upwards of twenty millions are already subscribed.
The Western Territory of the United States is said to contain 220,000,000 of acres, inferior in fertility, salubrity and conveniency, to no country upon earth.—What a fund for the future exigencies of our country!—May the wisdom of our government keep it from the grasp of unprincipled land jobbers.
What an asylum for the oppressed! divided upon agrarian principles, what multitudes may here find freedom and support! America "opens wide her arms to embrace millions, and waits to crown all the industrious and virtuous with plenty and happiness."
Then hither come—reason's first law obey, Self preservation—spurn tyrannic sway— Here Freedom lights her pure celestial fire, Which, but with time and nature shall expire.
October 7. This day arrived, from Cape-Francois, the brig Betty, Captain Watson.
Captain Watson left the Cape the 14th ult. He brings no intelligence of consequence more than was brought by Capt. Green. Provisions were very cheap; but any price was offered for powder and arms. Flour 4 1/2 dollars, and pork 10 dollars per barrel.
We hear that the opposers of the excise law, in the county of Westmoreland, have proceeded to acts of violence against the officers of the United States in that district. A gentleman just from Fort-Pitt informs that a number of lawless desperadoes, with their faces blackened and otherwise disguised, tied an excise officer to a tree, in which situation they continued him 24 hours.
A letter from Cape-Francois, to a mercantile house in this city, says, "A report is current here, that the negroes at Port-au-Prince have revolted."
Extract of a letter dated Cape-Francois, Sept. 7, 1791.
"Since my last I have not been able to leave the army for a moment, which is actually employed against the Negro Insurgents—They have massacred a great number of the Whites, and have taken prisoners some females of that complexion, whom they force to do the duties of servants—They have burned more than 200 Sugar-Plantations.—I was compelled to escape by flight, and could save nothing—My wardrobe, my furniture and plate are all in their possession—We have had several engagements with them, but without any decisive success:—Our commanding officer was killed by my side, as well as several officers, who were planters in the district.—I hope we shall be more fortunate in our next attack—M. de Rouvray, whom you were acquainted with, is commander in chief—The time is pressing, and I cannot give you a more particular detail at present." Translation of a letter from Cape-Francois, September 12.
"Since our last, of the 22d ult. the face of things is quite changed here by an insurrection of the slaves, which broke out on the 23d, in this quarter, from Port-Margot to Limonade, being an extent of twenty leagues. They set fire to all the houses, and butchered all the white people they found in them. Having rendered themselves masters of all the open country, they separated into bodies of three or four hundred each, posting themselves in different houses, which serve them as places of refuge. The small number of troops we have to occupy several advantageous posts, which defend the city, does not allow us to do more than sally out against them, from time to time, when they approach too near. If we had a greater number of regular troops, we might invest them in their lurking places. These ravagers are too numerous to be attacked; as they have obliged all the house slaves, even against their will to join them, and massacred such as attempted to, make their escape. After having ravaged all the level populous country, they made their way through many exterior settlements, and there the unfortunate few soon fell victims to their rage. They set fire to every thing on their way."
"We have sent to the United States, to request their assistance of some troops to assist us in destroying these ravagers: But are we to expect them? We have sent also to Jamaica, and to the Spaniards. We wait with patience for the return of our messengers, and earnestly hope they may bring us satisfactory answers. Our only security is this city, which is fortified and well guarded. At the commencement of these disturbances, our chief apprehensions were from our domestic slaves, who were in great numbers, and might perhaps be in a league with the insurgents, to set fire to our houses. But our vigilance, by day and by night, have preserved us from their suspected designs. Several have, however, been seized and brought to justice. The others, who were not suspected, have nevertheless been put in a place of security. By means of this prudent precaution, we now enjoy greater tranquility."
"At the first breaking out of these disturbances, a general embargo was laid upon all the vessels in the harbour, without distinction. For the present, our Assemblies, in concert with the Governor, have determined to permit as many of the American vessels to sail, as there should be new arrivals."
By the Schooner Hardy, Capt. Green, which failed from Cape-Francois the 12th ult. and arrived here on Saturday morning, we have received intelligence, that the Mulattoes and free Blacks have got fire-arms, &c. out of the King's store, at the Cape, and done more execution against the black insurgents than the white inhabitants had been able to effect: Above 3000 of the insurgents have been killed; they are, however, still strong, and have fortified themselves in two or three different parts of the country. The Whites have with difficulty been able to defend the town of Port-au-Prince, on the western part, and Cape-Francois, on the northward. All applications to the British and Spanish Islands for succour were refused.
The embargo was taken off American vessels at the time of Captain Green's sailing; but it was thought there would probably be another embargo laid, in case the disturbances were not quieted.
The insurgents having beat off a sloop of war, which was going round to seize some cannon at Port-au-Prince, several American sailors went on board the sloop, and fought bravely, under the command of Captain Lillybridge. It is said that the shot which was fired from the sloop of war, was picked up by the blacks, and fired back again. Every white man who appears in the country is destroyed, and a great number of white women and children are detained by the blacks as servants, and treated with the utmost brutality.
Another report says, that the blacks had made a proposal to the Governor, that they would disperse on being allowed three days in a week to themselves, which was rejected by him.
A letter from a respectable house in Cape-Francois, to his correspondent in Philadelphia, expressly says, that 180 plantations have been destroyed.
Captain Green says that, amongst all the hardships under which the whites now labour, it is a great consolation that they are not in want of provisions, and that there is sufficient for six months.
An attempt was made, by some flour-merchants, to raise that article to ten dollars per barrel; but the Governor interfered, and it was not sold at above seven dollars.
The relief, therefore, sent by the French Minister from the United States, will not be so much wanted as was imagined.—The good intentions of the Pennsylvania legislature were, notwithstanding, extremely humane and friendly; added to which, all accounts declare that our sailor volunteers in fighting against the insurgents, behaved with the utmost bravery.

In addition to the above we learn, that great numbers of the women and children of the blacks have surrendered themselves at the Cape, where attempts had been made to set fire to the town, but were happily frustrated. Several of the blacks taken prisoners, previous to their execution, declared, that they were instigated to those attempts by some white men, who were concealed among the insurgents, and advised them to those measures, as the best way to recover their liberty, &c. and that the instigators were not of the common or lower class, but artful fellows, who appeared to have system in their designs. The blacks were armed with guns, pistols, swords, knives, and other instruments of destruction, and were collected in large bodies within three or four miles of Cape-Francois, and were very desperate; but it was impossible to ascertain their numbers, which consisted only of such as were capable of offence, their women, children, and old men, not being permitted to stay near their camps.
October 4. By a Sloop arrived here last Saturday from Leogane, St. Domingo, we hear, that the spirit of insurrection had been the cause of no actual mischief; but the effects of it were every moment dreaded, and preparations making with activity to quell any disturbance.
On the 16th of August last arrived at Quebec, Colonel Brandt, with about 40 Chiefs, &c. deputed from the Confederation of the Western Nation of Indians, to represent to that Government their situation with regard to the United States of America, in the war now carrying on against them.—Sunday they were admitted to a public conference at the castle, in which they complained of encroachments on their territories, prayed for the interposition of the British Government to accommodate their differences with the States, &c. Lord Dorchester, who has failed for England, promised them, on his arrival there, to represent their situation to his Majesty, and promised them that he would contribute all in his power, to effect the restoration of peace on solid and advantageous terms.
P I T T S B U R G, September 24.
Lieutenant Jeffers, from Fort-Franklin, has related to us the following, in order to shew the disinterested attachment of Cornplanter to the United States:
A proposal having been made to some of the warriors of the Six Nations to join the hostile Indians, in order to prevent our army from penetrating into their country, several had actually accepted the proposal, and were endeavouring to persuade others to join them. As soon as the Cornplanter heard of this, he immediately sent a runner with a speech, which he ordered to be spoke three times to them, the purport of which was, that if they were determined for war, to go off immediately, and never return, for should he, or any of his warriors, ever see them, they would put them to death. This had the desired effect, the Indians immediately disbanded, and thus the affair subsided.
M A R Y L A N D.
B A L T I M O R E, October 7.
On the 22d of July last, M. ALEXANDER LAMETH, a member of the National Assembly of France, having brought up a report from the military committee, it was decreed in that Assembly that 70,000 national guards should be sent to the frontiers, besides the 27,000 which had been ordered; that four million of Livres should be expended on the fortifications; that 3000 artillery-horses should be contracted for; and that commissioners should be chosen by the assembly to superintend the execution of their decree.
It is confidently asserted that ROBERT CHAR-TER, Esq; of Nominoy, in Virginia, has emancipated four hundred and forty-two slaves.
A letter received in London (about the 4th of August) from Bengal, via St. Eustatius, advises, that Lord Cornwallis had crossed the Ghauts, after a violent and unsuccessful opposition from Tippoo Saib, and had taken Biddanore by storm, and was within five miles of Seringapatam, (Tippoo's Capital) the country around which his Lordship's cavalry had scoured when the last account from his army was despatched.—That Tippoo had considerably augmented the garrison in this place, and seemed determined to defend it with his whole force.—The same letter mentions, that overtures of peace had been made by Tippoo, and it was thought would be accepted by Lord Cornwallis—and that Tippoo's army had entered the Carnatic, and were approaching Fort St. George; but when General Musgrave advanced with the troops from the Presidency against them, they retired, and were afterwards completely routed by Col. Cockerell's detachment.
On the 30th of July last, the National Assembly of France, after a warm debate, decreed, that "all orders of Chivalry, Military Incorporations, Decorations, or exterior Signs, denoting distinctions of birth, are suppressed in France; and none such can be established in future."
F R E D E R I C K - T O W N, October 11.
On Monday, the 3d instant, an election was held at the Court-House in this town, for the purpose of choosing four representatives for the ensuing General Assembly (which continued until six o'clock, Thursday evening) when it appeared, that John R. Key, Col. Patrick Sim Smith, Col. William Beatty, and George Burkart were duly elected.
Tobias Butler is chosen High Sheriff for the town and county of Frederick, by a great majority of votes.
V I R G I N I A.
A L E X A N D R I A, October 13.
Extract of a letter from Detroit, to a gentleman in this town, August 9.
"If the coming of _____ depends on a line of forts being established in the Indian country, I fear we shall not see him this year, as a body of 1500 warriors are going down from above this, though I most sincerely wish the American army may be able to settle them. We hear of several skirmishes between them. Very lately a boat, with only 20 armed men, crossed the Ohio, when a party of Indians attacked them and killed 8; the rest got on shore, leaving their arms, &c. behind them, which, with their clothes, and the scalps of the unfortunate men who fell into their hands, they brought up here.—How much I was mistaken before I came here, in the idea that the savages were encouraged by the fort at Detroit! On the contrary, they will not assist them in the war, as has been requested; and whenever any prisoners are brought up, if they land at the fort, the greatest pains are taken to ransom them, in order to send them back to their friends.
"Young people are purchased by the merchants and farmers, and kept to the age of 21, when they always have their freedom. One youth was bought by a man of property here, when he was too young to be able to give an account of himself; he has been with him ever since, and, being now 21, or thinking himself so, has his freedom, and being a most excellent farmer, bids fair to be soon independent. It is true the savages receive arms and ammunition from the fort, with other presents, according to the treaty of peace made with them some years ago; but the British are perfectly neutral in the present war, having no friendship for the Indians, who are never allowed on any account to stay all night in the fort, and when the 8 o'clock drum beats, they are all obliged to leave the town, as the gates are shut at 9, and after that time, none can either go out or in. So little encouragement do they meet with at Detroit, that a party of the Chiefs are gone down to complain to Lord Dorchester, of the treatment they receive from the British government here; and Major Smith, who commands here, obliges them to leave behind all the prisoners they take into the fort. I should not have been thus particular, had I not known how those facts are misrepresented by news-paper intelligence; and you may rest assured of the authenticity of this account."
W I N C H E S T E R, October 1.
It is reported, that the three towns of Creek Indians, that stood out and would not accede to the New-York treaty, have, through the great exertions of M c Gillivray, ratified the same—and, it is generally expected that they will remain at peace, if the Cumberland people will overlook the depredations committed on that settlement during the last summer.
The proprietors of the Muscel Shoals, on the Tennessee, are determined to effect a settlement there, at the risk of every thing, and are making all the preparations in their power for a number of emigrants to set out early in November next. The Creeks and Cherokees are very much alarmed at this, and are determined to sacrifice both nations, sooner than suffer that country to be settled, for, should it take place, the Cherokees must leave the Tennessee.
The southern Indians were never more inclined for peace than they are at present.
S H E P H E R D ' S - T O W N, October 17.
A volunteer expedition, under the command of Brigadier General Charles Scott, was to rendezvous at George-Town (Craig's Mill) on Thursday the 8th day of September last, with thirty days provision, in order to go against the common enemy. The expence of this expedition is not to be defrayed by the general government, unless services should be rendered which, in the eye of Congress, may be thought deserving of some compensation.
Extract of a letter from Richmond, September 15.
"I seldom write you any thing that passes here; but a transaction which has lately come to light, is so extraordinary for barbarity that I will inform you of it. Upwards of thirty years ago, a man died and left a son of about twenty and a daughter very young. She appeared rather deficient in her intellects; however, she was to receive, on her marriage, a proportion of the estate, which was considerable. Soon after the death of the father, the girl was said to die and be buried; and has not been heard of since till lately, when it has been discovered that her inhuman brother confined her in a small room, where she was fed; but had no conversation nor sight of any person but himself. In this horrid situation, she remained more than thirty years. Her mind, like that of an infant, unimproved, and not able to make herself understood—with a sacred and dismal visage, and her body emaciated and out of shape. He has been before the court;—but, they knew of no punishment that the law had inflicted on such a crime, and have ordered him for trial at the ensuing Court; but it was with difficulty he could be protected from the justice and horror of the people, among whom were many leading men of the county, who would, if not prevented by the Magistrates, have inflicted on him that punishment which the greatness of his crime merited, but which probably the law has not provided—as the crime is unprecedented. It is said his eldest son is the only person who was acquainted with her confinement."
We learn by some travellers who arrived in this town a few days since from Wheeling, that the Western Army moved from head-quarters at Licking, on the 15th instant, on their way to the Indian country, therefore we may shortly expect some interesting information from that quarter.
Died, at Philadelphia in the 73d year of his age, Mr. William Bradford, many years the Editor of the Pennsylvania Journal, and Colonel of a regiment of militia, during the late war.
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 Shepherd'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.
Woodville, October 1, 1791.
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 Fodder, some live Stock, Plantation Utensils, Household 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.
This Day published, and for sale, by the Printer hereof,
[Price EIGHT PENCE.]
A L E T T E R,
From Mrs. R _____ to Miss S _____ A,
In ANSWER to her observations on
SAINT ROZO VILLOZO,
A resident near SHARPSBURG, in MARYLAND.
Gerrard's-Town
R A C E S.
THE Races at Gerrard's Town, will commence on Tuesday the 25th instant, on which day there will be run for, over the course in that town, a Purse of Fifteen Pounds, Pennsylvania currency, free for any horse, mare, or gelding; entrance money, and weight for age and size, &c. to be regulated according to the rules of racing.—Heats four miles.
On Wednesday, the day following, will be run for over the same course, a Purse of Ten Pounds, Pennsylvania currency, free for any horse, mare, or gelding, the winning horse the first day, only excepted; paying entrance, and carrying weight as above.—
And on Thursday following, will be likewise run for over the same course, a handsome Sweep Stakes, free also as above, the winning horses the two preceding days excepted.
JOSEPH LEMEN, Manager.
Gerrard's-Town, October 11, 1791.
TO BE RENTED, A VERY GOOD H O U S E,
With a good Cellar 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 Alexandria. Any person renting said House, may be furnished with other conveniences, such as boarding for a clerk, a lumber house, &c.
THOMAS GRAHAM.
October 16, 1791.
W A N T E D, 2 or 3 Apprentices
To the Tanning and Currying business. Application to be made at the Printing-Office.
ALL persons indebted to the estate of Mr. Andrew Coldwell, jun. deceased, are requested to make payment; and those who have any demands against the same, are likewise requested to bring them in, as an immediate settlement of the above estate is intended.
CHARLES McDONALD, Executor.
October 15, 1791.
Any person having a new-milch COW to dispose of, may hear of a purchaser by applying at the Printing-Office.

SEAT OF THE MUSES.
From the GENERAL ADVERTISER.
Mr. BACHE, By inserting in your paper the following trifles, you will oblige your constant reader, J. C. Philadelphia, Sept. 28.
A Foreigner's Answer to an INVITATION lately received in this city
A WAY! begone! I'm out of patience, With such preposs'rous invitations.— When feasting is on foot, you flight us; And BUT TO FUNERALS invite us!
Reply.
Read what's in Holy Writ exprest,* Nor falsely think, we flight you, Though to a Funeral, not a Feast, We ev'ry day invite you.
"'Tis better" (as the Scriptures show) To lay aside all jesting, And "to the House of Mourning go, "Than to the House of Feasting."
"Sorrow" (the sacred writings add) "Is better far than laughter: "For when the countenance is sad, The heart grows better after."
"Fools only," on vain pleasure bent, And wisdom's dictates scorning, "The noisy House of Mirth frequent; "Wise men—the House of Mourning."
Be you then wise!—make no delay, When we've a corpse to bury: But from our feasts pray keep away, Not, like a fool, make merry!
* Ecclesiastes vii, 2, 3, 4.
By virtue of a Decree of the Court of Berkeley, will be exposed to sale, the third Tuesday in October next, being Court day, that Lot of Land in the Town of Martinsburg, where Mr. Joseph Somerville now dwells, on which is a good Log-House, two story high, with cellar underneath, a kitchen with a convenient cellar under it, a stable, and garden pailed in, all in good tenantable repair. Also, two likely female SLAVES (the property of Joseph Somerville) to satisfy James Hendricks (Mortgagee.) JAMES MALESTER, late Sheriff, Berkeley County August 25th, 1791.
At a Court of Quarter Sessions, held for BERKELEY COUNTY: the 16th day of August, 1791.
WILLIAM MUNFORD, Compt. } In Chancery. vs. MARTIN KERSHNER, Deft. }
THE Defendant not having entered his appearance agreeable to an Act of Assembly, and according to the rules of this Court, and it appearing to the satisfaction of the Court, that he is no inhabitant of this County: On the motion of the Complainant, by his Council, Ordered, That the said Defendant do appear here on the third Tuesday of November next, to answer the bill of the Complainant, 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 Parish of Norborne, in the County aforesaid, on some Sunday after divine service, and also at the Court-House door of the said County.
A copy. Teste. MOSES HUNTER, C. B. C.
A Watch lost.
WAS lost in Martinsburg, some time in August last, a silver cap'd WATCH, cross-bar movement, name and number as follows:
Geo. Marme. Metcalf, London, No. 419. Whoever will return the said Watch, or give such information as the owner may get it again, shall receive a handsome reward, paid by JOHN GOODING. Shepherd's Town, Sept. 23, 1791.
WANTED IMMEDIATELY. Three Apprentices To the TANNING BUSINESS. Inquire of the Printer.
15 Dollars Reward.
R AN AWAY from the Subscriber, the 16th inst. a negro man named JACOB, about 28 years old, six feet some inches high, of a yellowish complexion, has a scar on his forehead, several about his eyes, and many more on his buttocks, which he received in consequence of his late thefts; he has a sharp nose, sculking look, and is as great a rogue as any in the County. Whoever will take up said negro, if within 10 miles of home, shall have Four Dollars reward—if 20 miles, Eight Dollars—and if at a greater distance, Fifteen Dollars, and all reasonable charges, when brought to Shepherd's-Town, Berkeley-County.
GEORGE REYNOLDS.
September 26, 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, Premises, and Buildings thereunto belonging, late the property of HENRY COOKCUS, 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 COOKCUS, 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, } Trustees. HENRY BEDINGER. }
BERKELEY-COUNTY, July 25, 1791.
6m.
To be sold, by the Subscriber, 140 Acres of Land IN BERKELEY COUNTY,
Within 4 miles of Shepherd's-Town, about 60 acres of which are now under improvement; on which is a new square LOG-HOUSE, and the fence in good repair.
All persons indebted to the Estate of ROBERT BUCKLES, senior, deceased, are requested to make payment; and those who have any demands against the same, are likewise requested to bring them in, as an immediate settlement of the above estate is intended.
WILLIAM BUCKLES, Executor.
Copper and Tin WARE, &c.
THE Subscriber, in the most respectful Manner, informs the Public in general, and the Inhabitants of Martinsburg and its Vicinity in particular, that he intends to commence Business in the COPPER and TIN LINE, near the Bridge in the said Town, on the first of August next, where they may be furnished, at the shortest Notice, and most reasonable Terms, with COPPER and TIN WARE, of every Description; and hopes, from the Goodness of his Work and Moderation of his Prices, to merit the Patronage of a GENEROUS PUBLIC—and is their devoted humble Servant,
WILLIAM CLEMM.
N. B. He still continues to carry on both Branches of Business, as usual, at his Shop, in Baltimore, where People may, at all Times, be supplied with every Article in either Line, as above.—Also, with Sheet-Copper, raised Copper-Bottoms, Tin-Plates in Boxes, Pig and Sheet Brass, India Spelter, Spelter-Solder, Sheet-Iron, Pig and Bar Lead, Iron-Wire assorted, and Black-Lead Crucibles from No. 6 to 25. Country-Produced, or approved Paper, will be received in payment for any of the above Articles, at the highest Rate.
The highest Price will be allowed, at both his Shops, in Cash, or new Work given in exchange for OLD COPPER, BRASS, PEWTER, or LEAD.
Baltimore July 29, 1791.
To be exchanged, a good Waggon Horse,
For a Saddle Horse or Mare.
Inquire of the Printer.
*** Cash given for clean Linen or Cotton Rags, at this Office.
Just published at BALTIMORE, By W. GODDARD & J. ANGELL,
And to be SOLD by WHOLESALE and RETAIL. With large allowance to those who purchase quantities,
THE PENNSYLVANIA, DELAWARE, MARYLAND, AND VIRGINIA
ALMANACK,
FOR THE YEAR 1792:
A COMPLETE and ACCURATE EPHEMERIS, calculated by the ingenious Mr. BENJAMIN BANNEKER, a free black Man, (a Native of this Country, born of African Parents) whose Calculations, now offered the Public, have met the Approbation of several of the most distinguished Astronomers in America.
[The Contents will be speedily published.]
The above Work contains interesting Particulars of the virtuous Life and laudable Pursuits of BENJAMIN, and his Progress to ASTRONOMIC FAME.
** Orders from our country and distant customers, will be duly attended to.
Baltimore, Sept. 30, 1791.
To be sold at PUBLIC VENDUE, On Friday, the 28th day of October next ensuing,
At the Bower Plantation of the late General ADAM STEPHEN, on Opeckon-Creek, in Berkeley County, a number of
HORSES AND HORNED CATTLE,
Amongst which are several fat Bullocks.
Twelve months credit will be given, upon giving bond, with approved security.
MOSES HUNTER.
September 28, 1791.
To THE PUBLIC.
THE Subscriber returns thanks to his Friends, and the Public in general, and informs them, that he means to occupy that new Brick Building on the Race Ground, belonging to Capt. James Stroud, together with the house he now lives in;—he expects from the situation, conveniences, and beautiful prospect therefrom, that he may meet with encouragement.—The excellent stableage, &c. and best of liquors, he flatters himself will be an inducement to those who may please to make trial.
FLO. MAHONY.
Martinsburg, Sept. 25, 1791.
George Town, September 9, 1791.
The Sale of LOTS in the FEDERAL CITY, will commence on Monday the 17th day of October next.
THE Commissioners finding they may engage materials and workmen for the Public Buildings, to any desirable extent—with a view to draw the fund into action, so as to facilitate the work, instead of a deposit of eight per cent, will require one-fourth part of the purchase-money to be paid down, the residue to be on bond, with security, payable with interest in three equal yearly payments.—The manner of improvement will be published at the sale.
THOMAS JOHNSON, } Commissioners. DAVID STUART, } DANIEL CAROLL, }
Wants employ, in a Merchant-Mill,
A Young Man who has been regularly bred to the Milling-Business, and who would wish to engage with some person who carries on the business extensively, and will give suitable wages, as a compensation for which, he will stand the inspection of the flour which may pass through his hands. Satisfactory recommendation will be given, if required. Inquire of the Printer.
A GRAMMAR SCHOOL,
WILL be opened in MARTINSBURG, on the 20th of September next, where the Subscriber purposes teaching the Latin and Greek Languages, in the manner practised in Dickinson College, (Carlisle)—Those who favour him with encouragement, may rely upon strict attention being paid, not only to the instruction of the youth committed to his charge in the above-mentioned languages, but also to their manners and morals. The price of tuition at $1. per ann. Subscriptions will be taken in by Mr. ROBERT M'KNIGHT, Martinsburg, and Mr. SAMUEL PORTER, Williamsport.
JOHN M'CORMICK.
August 31, 1791.