Norfolk gazette and publick ledger (Norfolk [Va.]), 1808-01-20 00:00:00

NORFOLK GAZETTE And PUBLICK LEDGER  INT HIC ETIAM SUA PRÆMIA LADUNT
VOL. IV.]
WEDNESDAY EVENING, JANUARY 20, 1808.
[NO 80.]
THIS PAPER IS PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A WEEK. PRICE TO SUBSCRIBERS SIX DOLLARS PER ANNUM, PAYABLE IN ADVANCE—SINGLE PAPER TWELVE AND ONE HALF CENTS—ADVERTISEMENTS ARE INSERTED AT THE RATE OF FIFTY CENTS FOR THE FIRST, AND TWENTY FIVE CENTS PER SQUARE FOR EACH SUCCEEDING INSERTION.
Norfolk Drawbridge Company.
At an annual meeting of the Stockholders, held at the Exchange Coffee-House on Monday the 11th instant, the Company declared a Dividend of Fifty Cents on each Share on the Capital Stock of the said Company, which will be paid to the Stockholders, or their legal Representatives, on or at any time after the first of February.
William Cammack, Treasurer.
January 13.
All persons to whom the Subscriber is indebted, are requested to make known the amount of their claims immediately.
Wm. Hartshorne, Jun.
January 13.
Just received for Sale, 25 qr. casks Gordon's old Sherry Wine, 20 boxes H. & S. Port, 30 do. do. do. do. 12 pipes Holland Gin, 20 do. Country do. Mackinder & White.
January 13.
1a4t
SAMUEL COLEMAN,
Opposite the Market, (westward) offers for Sale, Warranted New-York SHOES, and will return the money when Shoes are bought upon his particular recommendation, if they should not wear well. He thinks he has exerted himself as much to get the best and handsomest Shoes and Boots of the manufacture of the United States as any man in them, and has the assurance of the manufacturers in New-York, Philadelphia, Newark, and Baltimore, where the Shoes and Boots are made purposely for this market , that they shall be in all cases customers' work; and the report of a great number of those who have purchased Shoes, confirms their being so.
He has more on hand,
A general assortment of fresh New-York SHOES. For Ladies there are a variety of new Kid Patterns; Velvet Slippers, different colours, neat workman ship; of Silk & Tabby Velvet; Morocco Boots, Buttoned, and Walking Shoes, to tie and not to tie, with cork soles and without, &c. For gentlemen, Bollen's well known stout and light fine seal leather Shoes and Morocco Pumps, with several other kinds; For Misses, a variety of Morocco and Leather. For Boys, very fine for dancing, common, strong, lined and bound, and coarse. For Children, Morocco Boots, different colours, sized from 3 to 1, leather Pumps, Shoes and Boots; and for Servants, such as appear to be of very superior quality. There is attached to the Store a very comfortable back room, where Ladies may retire for the purpose of trying on Shoes or Boots.
He has a great variety of English Kid Shoes, some of which having been long on hand, will be sold at 7 6d; and a quantity of the most fashionable Embellishments, quite fresh at reduced prices.
He has on hand,
SHOES made by a very faithful workman in this vicinity, of the best wax-leather, in a shape to suit old gentlemen, with which he will be regularly supplied.
Vernon's elegant Baltimore BOOTS, kept in such quantity as to give a probability of fitting any person; sold at the prices in Baltimore.
New-York Pilot's BOOTS, an improvement upon the plan of Fishermen's Boots.
A considerable quantity of Boston SHOES and BOOTS, kept for the purpose of supplying those who must have what they think cheap, not appearing to know that the best things, are generally, cheapest; these will be sold low.
He is in expectation of a quantity of the most elegant Philadelphia KID SLIPPERS, by the first vessel.
With due encouragement, he is perfectly confident he can supply handsomer and better Shoes and Boots, than has been furnished by any person in this place heretofore; and if better, ultimately cheaper—but without it, it is impossible to keep a good assortment.
He has also,
A quantity of India COTTONS: a few tons of BAR IRON; and Pennsylvania BUTTER in small kegs, nicely pickled, at 20 cents.
Just received by Ferguson's Packet from Baltimore, a fresh supply of
Vernon's Winter BOOTS.
tf
GERMAN LINENS, &c.
  16 bales coarse Linen, 450 pieces Paper Hangings,   4 do. Ruffia Sheeting, 80 boxes Window Glass,   3 boxes German Rolls, 100 do. Sheet Pipes,   2 do. Rouais Sheeting, 120 do. Spanish Segars,   1 do. fine Flanders do. from 8 to 20 dols. per box,   3 do. Plittelas, 300 doz. empty Bottles,   1 do. fine Dowlas, 300 wt. netted bottling Wire,   2 do. Table Cloth, 500 do. Glue,   1 do. common Shirt Linen, 11,000 best Coffee bags,   1 do. extra fine do. 4,500 cheap Gunny Bags,   1 do. Bed Tick 2 yards wide, 5 boxes Tumblers, Decanters, &c. 
Also,
  6 elegant Terrestrial Globes, A large invoice of Lace,   3 pair large Looking Glasses, Jewellery and Dice,   in gilt frames, of the first elegance, Elegant Chessmen,   Elegant marble Statues, Flaggots and Clarinets,   Urn and Vases, Violins, Bows, and Flutes,   Liquor Casks, Oil Cloth, Flutes with four and six keys,   Water and Waffle Irons, do. patent lined,   Coffee Mills and Toasters, Ladies' Dressing Boxes,   Velvet Ribbons, Toilet Looking Glasses,   Fine Thread Stockings, Shaving Casks,   Elegant Cutlery, Elegant Writing Desk,   An invoice of Watches, Scarlet Cloth for Saddles,   Watch Crystals and Beads, Seine and Sewing Twine.   For Sale by   Niemeyer & Von Kapff. 
September 11.
For RENT,
(Possession to be had the 1st of January.)
The STORE-ROOM on Commerce and Water-streets, lately occupied by Mr. Edward Clarke, it may be had with or without a Room in the second story—it is very spacious, may be immediately accommodated for two stores, and will be rented in that manner if preferred. For terms apply to
John Nivison.
December 28.
6
In our paper of the 6th inst. we published the Report of Mr. Rodney, the Attorney General, on the claim of Beaumarchais; from the New York Evening Post we now copy, to that report, the following
ANSWER.
This report seems as if intended to aid in plundering the American treasury of half a million of dollars: for that is the lowest amount of a million livres, with interest from the year 1776. The attorney general's argument shall be noticed in due course; but first, for the information of our fellow citizens, (out of whose pockets that sum is to be taken) we think it proper to state the facts: beginning at an early period.
France, vexed and crippled by the Seven Years War, fomented secretly the disputes between Britain and her colonies, which commenced shortly after the peace of 1763. She desired a complete rupture, but was afraid of engaging in hostilities to effect it, being wholly unprepared. She was governed, moreover, by a feeble, profligate, indolent and extravagant monarch, who perished the victim of his lust, in May 1774. The American war was commenced by Britain in 1775; and a secret committee of congress sent Silas Deane to solicit aid. The French ministry had already taken measures to send us arms & ammunition. Caron de Beaumarchais was chosen for the agent, because he was a man of wit, a man of address, in short, any thing but a man of character and fortune. He was, therefore, a man who might be disavowed and punished, if events should run counter to the hope of his employer. Mr. Caron de Beaumarchais, to keep his name out of sight, (for his name alone would have proved the transaction to be merely a cloak and cover) assumed the character of a Mercantile House, under the firm of Roderigue Hortalez & Co. Considerable supplies were received in America as shipped by that House. Opposition was made by Lord Stormont, the British Ambassador to those shipments, which, conducted with more address than secrecy, were easily discovered by his spies. The French Ministry, in occasional compliance with his remonstrances, stopped vessels laden for our use; and found themselves under the necessity, not only of professing their ignorance, but of giving every assurance the British Ambassador could desire. But though considerable delay was occasioned by Lord Stormont's interposition, the supplies departed; and many of them arrived. The amount (after deducting payments made by the committee) was between three and four million of livres; about seven hundred thousand dollars: No small sum to be advanced by a man who had neither money nor credit.
After the capitulation of Burgoyne, France (in 1778) acknowledged our independence, and made a Treaty of Alliance and a Treaty of Commerce, with the United States, which were signed the 6th of February. In the same year, one of Beaumarchais' Clerks, a Mr. Franci, or Defranc, came out to demand payment of the supplies sent by Roderigue Hortalez & Co. Mr. Deane, also, returned home, and Mr. Gerard (brother to Gerard de Rayneval, principal Secretary in the Count de Vergennes Office) was appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to the United States. Mr. Gerard and Mr. Deane are dead. Nothing, therefore, shall be repeated of what was alleged at that time. But it is necessary to mention, that Arthur Lee, an honest but peevish, injudicious man (apprehending we should be cheated) cautioned the Committee against Mr. Beaumarchais' demands. It is presumed that his Letters are in the Secretary's Office. Let them be examined.
Tom Paine, then clerk of the Secret Committee, was prevailed on by some members of congress (whose zeal outran their discretion) to publish, in a Philadelphia Gazette, that the articles, for payment of which application was then made, were a free gift.* This publication, which appeared in the imposing form of An address from the Secretary of foreign affairs , (the character assumed by Paine) tended to falsify what the French ministry had declared, and to establish what the British ministry had asserted to the different courts of Europe. Mr. Gerard, who had indirectly countenanced the claim of Beaumarchais' agent, made, (in consequence of that ill-advised publication) an official declaration to congress, that what Paine had asserted was false. In consequence of this declaration, a majority of the members of congress thought themselves obliged to sanction Mr. Beaumarchais' claim, by their vote: and this step, taken to save the honour of the French court, drew after it a grant of bills on Dr. Franklin, in favour of Beaumarchais, (at long sight) for one hundred thousand pounds sterling. It is probable, however, that this Resolution would not have passed, had it not been suggested that if the supplies were furnished by his most Christian majesty, his mi-
* For this breach of confidence Tom was turned out of office.
nisters would prevent their agent from receiving payment of the bills. Monsieur Caron de Beaumarchais took care to have them negotiated and received value. Thus he became at once, a rich man; built a magnificent hotel, and lived sumptuously. And yet it is now pretended that this same person, who in 1775 had neither capital nor credit, was, in 1778, become so rich as to expend of upwards of a hundred thousand dollars in building a house; and that over and above all his great wealth, then in possession, he had still a claim upon the United States for an advance of near two hundred thousand dollars more, made in 1776. Let it not be forgotten (in this place) that if the French court had interfered about the payment of those bills, they must have unsaid what they had thought proper to say in contradiction of Mr. Lee's assertions. It was of great importance to keep the north of Europe quiet; and to that end it was desirable that the imputation made by England against France, of giving aid to her rebellious subjects, should have no foundation of evidence to rest upon. But the French ministry could not have stopped payment of the bills, without acknowledging that they had, early in 1776, furnished arms, ammunition and other supplies to the British colonies, then acknowledged subjects at war with their sovereign. Our declaration of independence, made the 4th of July, 1776, at Philadelphia, could not have been known in Europe before the month of August. Moreover, the U. States were not acknowledged by France until February 1778.
When Mr. Gerard was recalled from his mission to the United States, he was succeeded by Monsieur De la Luzerne; a man of high rank, and what is much more, a man of honour and integrity. This gentleman was authorised to aid us with money, in carrying on the war, if he should think it proper; nevertheless, he was, for a considerable period, an inactive spectator of events. But when, by the appointment of Robert Morris to manage our finances, there was reason to expect a vigorous and economical administration, he came forward to assist us. The supplies, furnished at his request, were, indeed, far from abundant; but, by a discreet application, they were rendered eminently useful. Col. Laurens, who had been sent to solicit pecuniary aid, was successful; but, when Monsieur De la Luzerne, representing the amount of that aid to Mr. Morris, as a reason why he should abstain from farther demands, learnt the anticipation of one hundred thousand guineas, (by the bills in favour of Beaumarchais) his indignation and surprise were expressed in strong terms. Fettered, however, by the declaration of his predecessor, he confined himself to the request, that should Mr. Beaumarchais make any new demand it should be referred to the French Court. This request, duly communicated to the American minister, and Mr. De la Luzerne's representation put an end, for some considerable time, to the schemes and hopes of Monsieur Caron de Beaumarchais.
After the peace of 1783, a settlement of accounts took place at Paris, between the Count de Vergennes and doctor Franklin. The Count charged the United States with a gift of three millions, in 1776, two of which had been paid to their Bankers, Messrs. Grand and Co. but there was no voucher for the third; and when the Doctor asked for it, he was told that the money, being a free gift, for which no return was expected, a voucher was useless. With this the old gentleman remained satisfied, taking it for granted the money had been paid to Beaumarchais, and that all claim on us, from that quarter, had ceased.
But when the throne was overturned in France, it was considered, at Paris, a good speculation to purchase the claim of Beaumarchais, which was offered on easy terms. The reason why it did not then assume an imposing form, is not essential to the present question. It was, however, brought forward, and the American minister, at Paris, was directed to obtain, if he could, some evidence of the payment (supposed to have been made to Beaumarchais) of one million of livres. He procured and sent out copies of Beaumarchais' receipt. The speculators, therefore, were foiled. They have, however, returned to the charge in 1806, backed by the French government. Finally, in 1807, this unfounded claim is supported by the honourable the attorney general of the United States.
This gentleman's argument may be comprised in a few words. He says the United States, acknowledging the debt, plead payment; they must therefore fail unless they prove payment; and they cannot prove payment: for the United States do not acknowledge the debt. They contend that he who spent their money to purchase articles for their use, cannot substantiate a claim against them for those very articles. The attorney general declares his belief that the million
charged to us by Monsieur de Vergennes is the identical million paid by his order, to Monsieur Caron de Beaumarchais. Indeed the evidence is too strong to admit of doubt. "But, says the Attorney, it was paid for secret services. The receiver was, by the very words of the receipt, to account to Monsieur de Vergennes, and not to the United States. He has so accounted. And for this we have the respectable testimony of Monsieur Turreau; who has moreover the goodness to assure us that it is the practice of his government to destroy the vouchers for secret services." Now, with the kind permission of Mr. Attorney General, all this must be scanned. And first, for what relates to the very respectable testimony of general Turreau, it appears politick in him to give the assurance that vouchers for the price of corruption are regularly destroyed. This holds out a prospect of impunity to those who may sell their vote or influence. But, with all due deference to the General, we beg leave to doubt the fact. He certainly would not have made the assertion, if the matter had been so represented to him; but his masters are men of business. When they get a gripe on a man's character, by the purchase of his conscience, they will not let go their hold, and thereby expose themselves in case of need, to the expense of paying twice for the same rotten commodity. But though we should admit, (for argument's sake) that this is the practice under his imperial majesty, it will by no means prove a similar folly to have been practised under the Bourbons. And even if that were admitted, we might venture to ask Mr. Attorney how general Turreau's masters (all vouchers being destroyed) have ascertained that the account was rendered by Monsieur Caron de Beaumarchais, to the Count de Vergennes?
We will, however, take every thing for granted as asserted, not only verbatim but literatim. We take it then for granted, that the account was settled; that it has been destroyed either by those now in power or by their predecessors, and that it was a satisfactory account for secret services rendered to France, which were of such essential benefit to America, as justly to be charged to us. We feel, however, no difficulty in reconciling all this with the fact, that this million was advanced for the purpose of sending arms and ammunition to America. We take the liberty to observe to Mr. Attorney, or rather to remind him (for surely it would not escape his apprehension) that sending arms and ammunition to subjects at open war with their sovereign, is among those services which are usually called secret. We take the liberty also of hinting to Mr. Attorney, that a receipt in June, 1776, binding the party to account to the United States, a body which did not exist (even by its own declaration) till July, 1776, would have been a curious and uncommon receipt. And with all possible deference to the sagacity of Mr. Attorney, we cannot but express our belief that if the vouchers supposed to be destroyed, were produced, they would clearly prove that the million was expended in the secret service of sending arms and ammunition to America: A service of such essential use to then British colonies (now United States) that the sum employed was justly considered as a free gift to them. That it was in consequence, their money employed for their use, and is therefore a compleat bar to the demand so often set up on the part of Monsieur Caron de Beaumarchais, for the purpose of swindling the United States out of a large sum of money. All which is humbly submitted to the consideration of those whom it may concern.
Richard Jeffrey & Co.
No 66, Main-street, corner of Bank-Street, have just received from London, per the ship Planter,
An assortment of MEDICINES,
of the first quality
Also, a few hundred weight refined Salt Petre, Hardham's Snuff, No 9, and 37, in 1-2 and 1-4 pound canisters, Violet, Benzoin, Windsor and Shaving Soap, Evan's best Crown Lancets, Tooth Brushes of superior kind, Refined Liquorice, &c.
They have on hand, and are in daily expectation of receiving from Amsterdam, all kinds of GLASS WARE, suitable to Apothecaries.
MEDICINE CHESTS for ships and family use, with printed directions, put up as usual. October 5.
MACKINDER & WHITE,
Have received from London in the ship Planter, and Nabby, from Liverpool, their
Fall and Winter GOODS.
The best superfine Black, Navy Blue, and fashionable mixed Cloths. Cashmeres, Patent Coats, Swansdown, black silk Florentine, Gentlemen's patent silk and beaver Hats; Ladies' Trafalgar, Calabria, Buenos Ayres, and Cottage beaver Bonnets; Children's beaver Caps and Bonnets; Ladies' plain and fancy Kid and Morocco Shoes; red and black Morocco Nelson's comforts; Gentlemen's Hessian and Spanish Bonnets and dress Shoes and Pumps; superior rich gold Epaulettes; lace and silver Fringe; plain, tamboured, and Leno Muslin for dress; Calicoes, Chambray, and Ginghams; rose and striped Blankets; Kendal Cotton; strong white Plains; mixed Fernaughts; Flannel; Manchester Cords; blue and drab Plains; Dimities and Mouselines; 4-4 Irish Linens; 5-4 and 6-4 Sheeting; Hosiery; Cutlery in boxes assorted; coarse Hats do.; Nails; Window Glass, &c.
The above are offered for sale by wholesale or retail, at the lowest terms for Cash or approved paper.

COMMUNICATION.
GUN BOATS.—After so many able and elaborate discussions upon this important system of defence, in which great naval science has been displayed by great men, any remarks from an unknown writer may be deemed superfluous. But it appears that neither the advocates for, nor opponents to them, have considered where they are most vulnerable.
I will undertake to shew that without land batteries, or ships of war under whose guns they could retire for protection, Gun Boats, if they are intended to act against ships of war, would prove the most idle dependence for attack or defence, that unskilful projectors ever suggested. The great and most certain danger would be from the Boats of men of war; from the ships, they could retire into shoal water, or in very light winds row out of their reach. The system of boarding and taking even vessels of war by Boats, had not been much tried, until the present contest. I will select a few out of the numerous cases which have occurred.—The Hermoine, a frigate of 40 guns, was cut out by boats under strong fortifications. Two corvettes of 18 guns each, and not less than 300 men, were attacked in the Garonne by the boats of a single frigate, and one of them carried, the other only escaped by the tide favouring her; recently the boats of a frigate pursued a French corvette of 18 guns and 160 men, for 40 miles, came up with her, boarded and carried her, with but little loss considering the nature of the attack, and the means of resistance.—I could go on to cite twenty other instances of the same sort, but these are sufficient to my present purpose. Now it is to be remembered that frigates and corvettes are high out of the water, in comparison with Gun Boats, that they have what in technical phrase is termed quarters, and they have guns to point in every direction from whence an attack might proceed. The Gun Boats are not so high out of the water, but that men may with ease step on board of them, yes with as much facility as they could step from one boat to another. The great difficulty in boarding ships with high sides, and with quarters, is the attack to which the assailants are exposed from the pikes and bayonets of those above them, and who until they get on board they cannot reach. This great difficulty would not exist in an attack upon a Gun Boat. Again, a Gun Boat having but one very large gun, would have to move it to the point from whence the attack was expected, but what would be done if she was attacked by four or five boats at different points (which would probably be the case) at the same time? If the attack was made in the night, it is probable that before the 32 pounder would be twice discharged, the boats would be along side, when the great gun would be of no manner of service.
In this view then, I am astonished when I hear gentlemen asserting roundly on the floor of Congress, that the Gun Boats are competent to drive ships of war from the Chesapeake. If they were to proceed into the bay, and there was a breeze of wind, their destruction would be certain, even though a hundred of them was to be opposed to a ship of war. If it was calm, they would be exposed to an attack from the boats of the ships of war. Should the experiment ever be made, and the Sixty Gun Boats allotted for the Chesapeake are sent into the bay to drive out two line of battle ships, and as many frigates, it will be fortunate if one third of them ever returns.
Let it not be supposed that I condemn the Gun Boats as of no use. No. I only wish to expose those who would employ them upon a service for which they are so incompetent, and which would consign them to certain destruction. As an auxiliary means of defence, they may perform their part with success, but to send them on a service such as I perceive to be contemplated by their advocates, is not only ridiculous, but something more. Gun Boats, I repeat, without ships of war and land batteries, are nothing but a wilful waste of money, an exposure of the liberty and lives of those who may be employed on board of them—I will not add of their honour also, because there can be no disgrace, where there is no chance of success.
Z.
In addition to the objections stated by our correspondent Z, there is another in our judgment so strong, that we do not perceive how it can be surmounted. The objection which we are about to state, arises from a conjecture, that the present administration design the gun boats as substitutes for a navy. If we are right in this conjecture, we venture to predict that the gun boat system cannot be long sustained. A navy is necessary in two points of view, first as a school, in which the young men who are to command the Gun Boats must be trained up; and secondly as an object to which their ambition is to be directed. It cannot be reasonably supposed that a young man of honour and talents would enter a service, in which his hopes of promotion, were to be bounded by the command of a Gun Boat? No—The supposition is absurd, in a country
like this, where there are so many means of advancement. The gentlemen who are now in service, from a sense of duty and of honour, will not quit at a time when their country is menaced with war. But certain it is, that all those who would be useful, and ornaments to their country, will resign a service, which does not hold out greater inducements. That the gun boats will not want commanders we can very well believe, but then they will be such as will only tend to hasten the ruin of the whole system. Men without ambition, and without which no man can ever make a respectable officer, men whose talents cannot recommend them to other employments, will remain.
In a few words, the navy must be cherished, or Mr. Jefferson will have the mortification of seeing his favourite system expire before his term of office.
We are not in the practice of paying compliments; but if any one will visit the Chesapeake and view her order, her discipline, and further view the materials which our country possesses, for forming a navy, that might one day, and that not very distant, enable America to command the respect of friends and the dread of enemies—we say, if any one will do this, he will grieve at that mistaken policy, which would destroy the navy.
Captain White, from Kingston, Jam. (see Marine Mem.) reports that when he sailed from that port, an epidemic prevailed, of the nature of a cough and complaint on the lungs, which was very fatal to the whites.
Flour at Kingston 7 1/2 dollars per barrel—other provisions equally low.
A proposition is before the Virginia Legislature, for suspending the operation of the laws in certain particulars, so far as relates to executions, &c. during the Embargo. If such a measure had been proposed by an opponent to the embargo, we should not have been surprised, but that it should proceed from advocates of that act, is to us really incomprehensible. Could the greatest enemy of that law, have assigned a better reason against its passage? What we ask must the nations, or rather the nation against whom it is calculated to operate imagine, when it is perceived that an embargo is a measure of such severity upon ourselves, that we confess the administration of civil justice must be suspended during its continuation? To say nothing of the demoralizing principle contained in such a proposition, nothing could be more impolitic, and nothing so calculated to exhibit the weakness of our own measures.
There were no newspapers received by last night's mail north of Richmond.
THE READER will find an interesting article, relative to the claim of Monsieur Caron de Beaumarchais in our first page.
NATIONAL FASHIONS.
How are the British blockaded? By French decrees.
How are the French blockaded? By British squadrons.
How are the United States blockaded? By secret proceedings and gun boats.
The British and the French, professing to follow some old European fashions, undertake to blockade their enemies.
The United States have a fashion of their own in undertaking to blockade themselves.—N. Y. E. Post.
The embargo.—Two sailors meeting this forenoon at the corner of William and Pine-streets, each with a bundle of cloathes, the following brief dialogue ensued:
Holla! messmate, where are you bound? Bound to Halifax by the pipers, which way are you steering?
By the powers of Moll Kelly, I am steering the same course, for there's no standing this embargo any longer.—Ibid.
In aid of the King's Proclamation.—Our administration have in one manner and another expressed a good deal of anger against the King's proclamation for inviting British sailors to return home. Now we give it as a fact, that a number of sailors, amounting, as I am told to, at least, one hundred and fifty, have taken already their passage on board an English brig bound for Halifax in ballast. And this morning half a dozen rope-makers with their bundles came over from Brooklyn in the ferry boat, who told a gentleman in the same boat, from whom I had it, that they had been discharged from the Rope Walk at Brooklyn, and were now setting out for Halifax, to get employ. The friends of the King's Proclamation could not possibly have devised any thing more directly in aid of it than the embargo. Nay, we drive away not only British sailors, but our own along with them. Ibid.
Communications from Washington to the Editor of the United States' Gazette.
TUESDAY, January 5.
Whether the embargo originated in a conviction of its propriety and utility, or in a mandate from the emperor of France, is a question which, at this time, ought, above all others, to engage the serious attention of the American people. The subject, however, is involved in obscurity. The transaction is surrounded with circumstances dark and mysterious. If the measure really proceeded from an honest desire to promote the interest of the nation, why is all information so studiously concealed from the people? Nay, why is it concealed from the representatives of the people? This very circumstance gives just reason for apprehension and alarm. A wise administration would not afford such a reasonable cause for suspicion.
There is a number of circumstances connected with the embargo law, deserving the consideration of every American. I will endeavour to present a fair and succinct statement of some important facts
in the case. If taken singly they establish no decisive conviction; yet in connection they may lead to some interesting and satisfactory conclusions.
The message of the president recommending an embargo was transmitted to congress two days after the receipt of despatches from France. We cannot help believing that these despatches had great influence. We indeed know that they had influence, for a part of them was transmitted to congress for the purpose of enlightening and guiding their deliberations. We are not, however, permitted to know their contents. The president requested the return of the letters of Armstrong and Champagny, as it would not, he said, be proper to make them publick. We observe that such was the president's anxiety to keep them secret, that he would not trust the judgment of the house of representatives. A fine complement surely. But they were stupid enough not to perceive the stigma thus cast upon them by the president.
Dr. Bullus, who brought these despatches from France, brought despatches also from England; but they were only duplicates of what had been received several weeks before.
From the language of the supporters of the administration, in private conversation, in debate on the floor of congress, and in the government prints, we are led to conclude that the only object of the embargo is to bring England to terms. We hear little or nothing of French aggression and insult. Their sensibilities are never roused at the outrages of a Frenchman or a Spaniard.
The embargo then is aimed at England; and yet is occasioned by despatches from France. Perhaps Mr. Armstrong has been consulting the magnanimous emperor on the subject of our quarrel with England, or perhaps Buonaparte has very kindly offered his advice without being asked. Why did Mr. Jefferson ask a return of the letters of Armstrong and Champagny? Why was it improper that they should be made publick? If they related merely to the construction of the imperial decree, there would be no impropriety in publishing them. The letter of Regnier, the grand judge was published, and for ought that appears, without any objection: indeed, none could have been made.
If the embargo is a wise and prudent measure, why was it not adopted a month ago? The ostensible object is to secure our resources, by detaining our property and seamen in our own country. Within a month, hundreds of vessels and millions of property have left our ports for foreign countries. Nothing new has occurred within that time to render a measure of that kind advisable, except the receipt of despatches from France. Yet no man can tell what influence this fact has had, unless Buonaparte has recommended the measure.
The letters of Mr. Armstrong, to our own government were not, it seems, communicated to congress. Why not? Mr. Jefferson was afraid to trust the people with the letters of Armstrong and Champagny. It is, said he, improper to make them publick. But the letters of Armstrong to our own government, he dare not trust even to the inspection of congress even in conclave. Why not? If Mr. Armstrong does his duty, and I presume he does in this report at least, he regularly transmits to the secretary of state an account not only of all his official correspondence, but of his private and political conversations, with Buonaparte, Talleyrand, and other persons of influence about the court. Mr. Armstrong's communications must disclose the nature of our relations at this time with the French government, and their views and designs toward us. Had they been transmitted to congress, they would have determined at once the question so much agitated in secret session, whether the embargo was or was not recommended in compliance with a demand from the emperor of France.
We find that a motion was made in conclave by Mr. Gardenier, a gentleman who has proved himself an able, intrepid, and eloquent champion of the honour and welfare of his country, to request the president to communicate to the house copies of the letters which he received from Mr. Armstrong by the late arrival from France, relative to the imperial decree. This was refused without debate. If they could have borne the light without impeaching the conduct of Armstrong, or of our own administration, no imaginable reason can be assigned for withholding them from congress.
There are some other circumstances not unworthy of notice.
A letter bearing date the 19th December, and purporting to come from a member of congress, was published in the New-York Evening Post, in which the charge of French influence is directly and explicitly avowed. Whether this opinion was founded on something contained in the letters of Armstrong and Champagny, does not appear; but the opinion was founded on the knowledge of some circumstances which could not be imparted. What are we to think of this? a member of congress pledging himself that the house was acting under the secret influence of a foreign power!
I find also a letter in the United States' Gazette, purporting to come from a member of congress, which states that the opposition to the embargo, if not wholly, yet in a great measure, was founded in a suspicion that the measure had its origin at Paris. From a variety of considerations it is clear that this ground was assumed in debate against the bill, by the ablest men in the house. If this charge of French influence was founded, it was extremely easy to have disproved it, and to have banished even all suspicion, by producing the letters of Armstrong. It was not done, and we are left to make our own inferences.
The more this subject is considered, the more reason have we to conclude that this measure has been adopted through some improper influence. Has it not been adopted in pursuance of a mandate from France? Let every man ponder on the circumstances of the case and judge for himself. It is a subject, which, above all others, ought to occupy the attention of the publick. Suppose this to be the fact; and then examine all the known circumstances in any way connected with the transaction.—See whether they cannot all be easily and satisfactorily explained and reconciled. Consider whether they can be explained in any other way; whether any other clue will unravel the dark and complicated labyrinth. It must be conceded by all, that the circumstances which support the presumption is strong; in any other case they would produce implicit belief. The time, the manner, and the effect of the embargo, and the very vindication of the measure by its advocates, go to corroborate the impression of improper influence. This was suspected and declared in conclave, and by whom? Not by
the political or personal enemies of the administration, but its friends and supporters. My life upon it, said Mr. Masters, this measure is from the mandate of Napoleon. We find that a considerable number of members of congress was impressed with a similar idea. Now if these apprehensions were unfounded, which is sincerely hoped to be the case, it would have been the easiest thing in the world to have shown it. It was a duty which the government owed to congress and to their country, to remove these doubts. It was not done: it was not even attempted to be done. We are, therefore, left to infer, we must infer, that something is rotten at bottom. A government that refuses to remove the reasonable doubts of even its enemies must be in the wrong. All must see and own that we have a right to charge the government with succumbing to the influence of France. If it is not so, let them produce the letter of Armstrong, and exonerate themselves from the charge. We shall wait with solicitude to see whether they will do it. We hope they can and will; but I confess, I very much doubt it.
[There is some point and characteristick humour in the following address.]
Address of the Carriers of the New-York Gazette, on the commencement of the present Year.
ARRIV'D this morning, full of freight, The New Year eighteen hundred eight, Spoke, outward bound, towards oblivion, The old year eighteen hundred seven. On board the old year go events Of interest, and of consequence, Shipt by th' experience of mankind, And, to posterity consign'd. The foreign cargo in her hold, Is damaged much as we are told; The bales mark'd thus—Denmark, Prussia, Holland, Germany, and Russia, And Portugal are said to go Consign'd to Buonaparte and co. But Britain has, we understand, Tow'd Denmark in, as contraband— Goods shipt for enemies' supplies, And therefore captors' lawful prize. The former owner of the bale Mark'd Portugal, 'tis said will fail, Unless by transfer they can still Continue business at Brazil.
Ship left—The BRITAIN, waiting orders To sweep the ocean's farthest borders Of enemies; and convoy those Who dare resist the world's worst foes.
In latitude of darkest fates Descried the ship UNITED STATES:— The weather dark and blowing gales, Her rigging shatter'd, and her sails. Her upper works much damaged too; But timbers sound, and men all true; And though the helmsman in a flaw May sometimes let the vessel yaw, She'll ne'er be left to go to wreck For want of good men on the deck. 'Tis said she has her anchors tript, Her men all muster'd and equipp'd, Her boats drawn up along her side, And waiting only wind and tide To steer for France. This voyage we think Will make her owners' credit sink; For should the Britain cross her wake She'll fore and aft her commerce rake; The wealth and honour of the nation She'll tow in for adjudication.
The BURR conspiracy—on shore By Wilkinson, the commodore, Has had its trial—been acquitted, But ship can never be refitted; We therefore here may safely say She'll never more get under weigh. The commodore, we are inform'd, Is somewhat damaged in the storm; His "soldier's honour," rather crank, Has open'd seam or started plank; And did not Presidential pump Work hard to save a sinking lump, His fame and character would be Soon founder'd in "tempestuous sea."
Spoke, outward bound to Dissolution, The ship AMERICAN CONSTITUTION; It blowing Democratick blasts She's scudding under jury masts, But let's the masters orders hear— "Throw compass o'er the ship to clear, "And if the chart don't please my view, "Why cancel it and make a new: "Or let's have none, who cares about them, "I, J——n can steer without them."
Spoke, ship Neutrality, ran down By Buonaparte's indignant frown; 'Twas thought if she survived this shock, She'd founder next on British rock;— At all events, by observation, She's near the coast Annihilation; In such a case, a rotten ship To Davy Jones must take a trip.
Spoke, ship Tom J——n, bound in As gales "tempestuous" now begin To agitate the publick "sea," And stir the waves of liberty; Our captain, wise, t'avoid the strife, Will close the voyage of publick life, Acknowledge he so weak has grown, (This men of sense has long since known, And better it had been no doubt, Had he much sooner found it out.) That he can hold the helm no more, When clawing off a dark lee shore— When storms are threatening—seas run high And "specks of war" o'ercast the sky. But ere he quits the quarter deck, He must play one more coward trick, At his old age he drops a hint on, But all the time means old George Clinton.
REMARKS.
Winds high—seas rough, and weather dark, Good pilot he who keeps his bark In proper trim. To carry sail In such a black tempestuous gale Is not expected. Seamen true, Who know in troubles what to do, In proper season will begin To reef, and topsails to take in; To put the ship in proper form, To brave th' expected dreadful storm,

But sailors bred in mill-pond seas, Who never felt salt-water breeze, Will spend the time (the cabin clos'd) In planning—what! God only knows— Till waves the ship shall overwhelm, And she'll no longer answer helm; Till masts and spars are swept the deck, And water-log'd she lies a wreck; Toss'd, batter'd, dash'd by every gale, And sunk at last by Gallick whale.
That such may never be the fate Of the great ship Columbian State We pray: But it must be confess'd, That clouds look equally in S. West; And should not wind haul Northward soon, Our sun may set before 'tis noon; And such a hurricane arise, As ne'er was seen by mortal eyes; A storm which landsmen can't abide— In which our ship can never ride; But chat'd by party's galling motion She'll go down in oblivion's ocean.
Our list marine is ended here, And song likewise, for present year:— First wishing all our patrons may, Go joyful on from day to day,— In wealth and wisdom fast increase, Till time itself with them shall cease;— Grow up in wisdom and in grace, While they shall run their mortal race,— And when their pilgrimage is o'er, Taste happiness for ever, more.—
POSTSCRIPT.
In haste we stop the press, Just to announce in this address, That by the mandate of the wise, The AMERICA embargo'd lies, Hem'd in by jacobinick rocks, In one of Jefferson's dry docks; We hope it may not be her fate, To be land lock'd in such a state For many months:—For should she lie Warp'd up in this way, high and dry, A year or so, her planks may start, Her timbers crack, her rigging part, Her men desert from off the deck, And leave the ship a useless wreck.
RICHMOND, Jan. 16.
In the Argus of yesterday, notice is taken of some letter, said to have been received in this city from Washington, stating that a compromise had been effected between the friends of Mr. Monroe and Mr. Clinton, for the purpose of securing the office of President to Mr. C. and that of Vice President to Mr. M. The editor of that paper very properly expresses his disapprobation of such a procedure, and professes to entertain no doubt that Mr. M. will, if the project is communicated to him, instantly reject it. Upon this point we heartily concur with the editor of the Argus, and have good ground for saying that in every thing relating to the next Presidential election, Mr. M. has conducted himself with the integrity and discretion for which he has been so much distinguished through life. We doubt also, whether such a compromise has been made. Before we give credit to an allegation so disgraceful to the country, we should have the evidence before us. Enquirer.
The following is the extract alluded to in the above.
"Letters have been received in this city from Washington, stating that several Caucuses have been held by the friends of Messrs. Monroe and Clinton, in consequence of which a compromise has been agreed upon among them to the following effect: that Monroe is to be run as a candidate for the Vice Presidency, and Clinton for the Presidency in opposition to Madison ; Monroe , though elected to the sinecure office of Vice President, is to be consulted concerning the administration, and to have a voice in the cabinet; and that after the period of four years shall have elapsed, Clinton is to retire from office, and Monroe to be elected his successor."
"We are truly sorry to hear that any party in Congress has resorted to manoeuvres like these for the purpose of disposing of the first office of our government;—and have too much respect for the integrity and sound judgment of Mr. Monroe to doubt for a moment that, if such a project is proposed to him, he will instantly and decisively reject it."
VIRGINIA LEGISLATURE.
FRIDAY, January 15. Latest Proceedings.
Yesterday the House of Delegates passed to the third reading of a bill for the defence of the publick property. The bill contemplates keeping an armed force in Richmond, consisting of one Lieutenant, one Ensign, four non-commissioned officers and thirty privates, under the direction of the executive, and to be employed principally in guarding the Penitentiary and Capitol. This to be a substitute for the Publick Guard now established.
The house of delegates were also occupied in committee of the whole house, on the subject of the proposed re-organization of the district courts of law and chancery. The reformation of the superior courts of chancery, is for the present abandoned; but there seems to be a very large majority of that house in favour of establishing a superior court of law in every county in the state. The project submitted by the mover of this subject, and which it is believed will be adopted by the legislature, is to divide the state into twelve judicial circuits and allot a judge to each circuit, who will hold a court twice a year in each county of his circuit. The friends of this measure assert, that the saving of publick expense, in criminal prosecutions only, which will be effected by this change, is estimated at twenty thousand dollars. This saving (they say) will consist in avoiding the costs of transporting prisoners from county to district jails, and the costs of witnesses and venire men attending from distant counties of the present districts, at the court houses of the counties in which the district courts are now held. We have not yet examined the subject; and of course can offer no opinion upon the innovation.—Two judges only, in addition to those who now constitute the general court, will be required. Enquirer.
The following reply from col. Monroe to the Address of the House of Delegates, was read in that body on Thursday.
RICHMOND, January 12, 1808.
Sir, My return, after an absence of almost five years,
to my native country, which I am bound by so many considerations to regard with the utmost degree of gratitude and affection, was in itself an event that afforded me the most sincere pleasure. But it is impossible to describe the sentiments produced in my mind, by the reception which I experienced from my fellow-citizens, and the high honour conferred on me by the Assembly in which you preside, by its Address of the 21st of December last.
I rejoice to find, that the principles of our revolution, on which all our governments are founded, continue to gain strength in the confidence and affection of our fellow-citizens. Having imbibed those principles from education, I contended for them in early life in the great and glorious struggle which achieved our independence. Experience and reflection have since impressed their truth indelibly on my mind, and in all the transactions in which I have been engaged, I have invariably made them the guides of my conduct. It cannot therefore be presumed that they will cease to animate me hereafter, or that I shall fail to obey their dictates, as long as I exist.
My late employments abroad were conferred on me at a time, when I had contemplated the application of my labours altogether to private purposes. It was at the moment of my retirement from the office of chief magistrate of this commonwealth, in which I had the good fortune to acquit myself to the satisfaction of my country. I did not however hesitate to obey the summons addressed to me by a wise and virtuous administration, and to undertake the very arduous duties, in which I was called to participate. In the discharge of those duties I am conscious that I have exerted my best and most unwearied efforts, to maintain the honour of my government and country, and to promote the prosperity and happiness of my fellow-citizens. How far I may have succeeded, it is not for me to decide; but the expression of the publick sentiment, by the house of delegates, communicated by you, will afford me great consolation through all the vicissitudes, whatever they may be, of my future life.
I beg you to present to my fellow-citizens of the house of delegates my best wishes for their welfare, as individuals, and to be assured of the high consideration and esteem with which I have the honour to be, your very obedient servant.
JAMES MONROE.
The Hon. Hon. the Speaker of the House of Delegates.
The following are the Amendments to the Federal Constitution, which have been adopted by the House of Delegates.
WEDNESDAY, January 13.
"Resolved That the Senators in Congress from this state be instructed, and the representatives thereof requested, to use their best endeavours in procuring the following amendment to the constitution of the United States, to wit:—That the Judges of the Supreme, District, and Inferior Courts of the United States and their territories, may be removed from office, by the vote of the House of Representatives and the Senate of the United States in Congress assembled, a majority of the whole number of the House of Representatives, and a majority of the members present of the Senate concurring therein. Provided however, that the cause or causes of such removal shall be stated at length on the journal of the house."
And the question being put on agreeing to the said resolution as amended, it passed in the affirmative—Ayes 121—Nays 55.
"Resolved, That the said Senators be instructed and the said Representatives requested, likewise to endeavour to obtain the following amendment to the constitution of the United States, to wit:—That the Senators in the Congress of the United States may be removed from office by the vote of a majority of the whole number of the members of the respective State Legislatures by which the said Senators have been or may be appointed."
And the question being put on agreeing to the said resolution as amended, it passed in the affirmative—Ayes 145—Nays 18.
NOVA-SCOTIA.
HALIFAX, Dec. 15.
On Tuesday last his majesty's council waited on the governor with an answer to his speech at the opening of the session. The following is an extract from the answer:
"At the same time that they sincerely regret the existence of any differences between his majesty's government, and that of the United States or America, threatening an interruption to the harmony and good understanding which have so long, and so happily subsisted between the two countries, they cannot but most cordially approve of those salutary measures of precaution, and of aid to the garrison, which your excellency has thought proper to adopt by calling out a proportion of the militia into actual service; and confident as they are of the courage, zeal, and tried loyalty of that respectable body, they will most cheerfully concur in every measure for promoting their comfort, when on duty, during the severity of the approaching winter."
On Wednesday the Representative body presented an address, from which the following extract is made:
"The differences between his majesty's government and that of the United States of America, which have rendered necessary the calling into actual service a proportion of the militia of the province, not being yet accommodated, the assembly will deliberate on your excellency's recommendation of the grant of a sum of money to provide warm clothing for men who may be employed during the winter."
ADMIRAL BERKELEY.
On Saturday last a meeting of the inhabitants of the town, was held at the court house, to consider of an address to the hon. vice-admiral Berkeley, on his approaching departure from this station—when the following gentlemen were appointed to prepare an address accordingly, viz.—The hon. Andrew Belcher, the hon. Edward B. Brenton, Brenton Halifax, James Fraser, and John Black, esqrs.
The address was prepared, signed and presented to the admiral at 2 o'clock yesterday—it is as follows:
To the Hon. George Cranfield Berkeley, Vice-Admiral of the White, and commander in chief of his majesty's ships and vessels on the North American station.
The Address of the Inhabitants of Halifax.
Sir,
We have heard with extreme regret that you intend sailing from this port in a few days, and that it is probable you will return to England without revisiting us; and, though we earnestly hope that this report may prove unfounded, we cannot permit you to depart without assuring you that you carry with you the most sincere good wishes of the inhabitants of this town.
The urbanity and hospitality you have displayed during the short time you have resided among us, will long be a subject of pleasing recollection. The firmness and decision of your publick conduct has excited our admiration. The moderation, judgment, and attention with which you have directed that part of the publick service more immediately connected with our commerce; the readiness with which you have granted convey for its protection, and the disposition you have uniformly manifested to refrain from incommoding it by any unnecessary impressment of our mariners, have ensured you our esteem and respect; and we beg you to believe that we regard you as a real friend and an encourager of this infant colony.
It belongs to that government, whose decisions we are bound to treat with respect and obedience, to pass its opinion upon the most prominent feature of your conduct as commander in chief on this station; but feeling that the security, peace, and happiness we have enjoyed during a period in which almost the whole civilized world has been desolated by the arms of a nation, as powerful as it is ambitious and unprincipled, are chiefly owing to the heroic exertions, and high character of that profession to which you have the honour to belong, we cannot omit expressing our approbation of the principles upon which you have acted, as these blessings would soon vanish if a neighbouring country is permitted to give so vital a stab to our navy, as to seduce from our service, and receive into theirs, the seamen which compose its strength.
If, unfortunately for us, the report of your final departure from this station should prove true, and we are now to bid you farewell, we beg leave to express to you our earnest hope, and confident expectation, that your recall will only be for the purpose of placing you in a situation where your abilities can be more actively exerted for the benefit of your country; and to assure you of our most ardent wishes for a long continuance of health to yourself and your amiable and exemplary family; for a safe and pleasant passage to your native country; and that the favour and approbation of your sovereign may here attend you.
Halifax, December 14, 1807.
To which he returned the following answer: TO THE INHABITANTS OF THE TOWN OF HALIFAX, NOVA-SCOTIA. Dock-Yard, Halifax, N. S. 14th Dec. 1807.
GENTLEMEN, Highly gratified, as any individual must be, in receiving the approbation of so respectable a body as the inhabitants of this place; I cannot but feel more sensible of their partiality, from the particular circumstance alluded to in the address I have been honoured with this day; a circumstance which, although it may unfortunately deprive me of much valuable society and of those means, by which I could best testify my gratitude to this Province, will never raise a blush on my cheek; and I have the satisfaction to think, when the causes are properly known and understood, that my endeavours to promote and defend the dearest interests of my country and to support the dignity and honour of its flag, will meet with that approbation which you have stood forward in bestowing; and while I have so convincing a testimony of the rectitude of my conduct, as that with which the Province has honoured me, I shall feel that period, a proud one, in which I am called to account; the Triumph of Equity and Justice must have its day, and when that day comes, the first sensation of my heart, will be the gratitude and affection to this colony and its inhabitants. If however, my recall from this command should not be determined upon, and that I shall again have the happiness of returning amongst you, it will be, with a renewed gratification from a due sense of your partial opinion of my conduct; and although I can scarcely feel more pleasure than I have done in executing my trust with fidelity, and to the approbation of a royal people, yet that satisfaction will be considerably enhanced in my mind, if my exertions can contribute to the increase of your commerce, your prosperity and your general happiness.
And I remain, gentlemen with great truth and esteem, your very faithful and obliged friend and humble servant,
G. C. BERKELEY.
Gazette Marine Memoranda.
ARRIVED.
In Hampton Roads, sch'r Sally, White, 26 days from Kingston, (Jam.) bound to Baltimore. The Sally sailed from St. Jago-de-Cuba, and the 12th Dec. was taken into Kingston, by H. B. M's sch'r Sandwich, Lieut. Burt, after 12 days detention, released on payment of costs; cargo Sugar & Coffee. Left there Dec. 26, ship Damascetta of Bristol for Wilmington, N. C. to sail in 6 days; brig Polly, Preble, for ditto, in 10 days; sch'r Prentice-Boy, Fulford, for New-Orleans, in 13 days; sch'r Nancy White, Fitch, from Currao, discharging; brig Orion, Lilly, for a southern port of the U. States, in 6 days.—Sent in for adjudication sch'r Ambition, Small, of Portland from Montego Bay, with Rum; sch'r Telegraph of Baltimore, by the brig Reindeer, who had captured two schooners belonging to Philadelphia from St. Domingo, and ordered them for Kingston, but they had not arrived; ship Fabious, Taggart, for Havana; and an American ship with 300 slaves.—Condemned a sloop belonging to Philadelphia bound to Currao, for having touched at Porto Rico. Capt. W. reports that nothing escapes the British cruisers. Left at St. Jago-de-Cuba, the ship Rittenhouse, to sail in 6 or 7 days. Sch'r Federal George, Dexter, from Martinique, for Baltimore.
For SALE,
A likely Negro GIRL, about 15 years of age, has been brought up in the house, and sold for no fault. Apply to the printer.
Sales at Auction.
On Friday next, the 22d instant, will be Sold for Cash at the corner of Commerce and Water-Street, 17 puncheons old Antigua RUM, 6 do. new do. do. 8-quarter casks, 2 half pipes old Madeira WINE. Jan. 20. S. MARKS, Jun.
NOW IS YOUR TIME! 10,000 Dollars may be gained for One Dollar and Fifty Cents in the PHILADELPHIA GRAND LOTTERY.
Highest Prize 10,000 Dollars. Authorized by an Act of the Legislature of Pennsylvania, for the encouragement of USEFUL ARTS.
CASH PRIZES. 1 Prize of 10,000 Dollars 10,000 2 do. of 5,000 10,000 5 do. of 1,000 5,000 10 do. of 500 5,000 10 do. of 200 2,000 40 do. of 100 4,000 100 do. of 50 5,000 200 do. of 20 4,000 500 do. of 10 5,000 1,000 do. To consist of machines for opening off-cast worsted and open wrought woollen clothing into wool, valued at one hundred dollars each, (patent right included) 100,000 1,900 do. To consist of rights for manufacturing ornamental mouldings for dwelling houses and shipping, valued at fifty dollars each, 95,000 200,000
Subject to a deduction of 15 per cent. The most valuable Cash Prizes from 200 Dollars and upwards, to be determined as follows:
Dols. First drawn number on the first ten days' drawing, each First drawn number on the succeeding ten days', each First drawn number on the succeeding five days', each First drawn number on the succeeding two days', each First drawn number on the last day's drawing,
This Lottery will positively commence drawing on the twenty-third day of February next, and will be completed in 28 days at intervals, under the superintendence of gentlemen appointed by the governor, to whom approved security has been given, for the faithful drawing of the Lottery agreeably to the scheme. The numbering for the wheels has so far progressed, under the direction of Mr. James Oellers, as to justify fixing the day of drawing. The cash prizes will be paid at the bank in thirty days after the conclusion of the drawing, and the Machines and Composition rights delivered to order, on payment of the deduction as above. All prizes must be demanded in one year after the drawing, or they will be considered as forfeited after that time.
Tickets in the above Lottery at $1.50, for Sale by A. C. JORDAN, & Co No. 3, Market-Square. The price of Tickets will advance as the drawing progresses.
Note.—The purchaser or holder of every ticket, will be entitled to a valuable patent right for manufacturing Sago, Starch, and Hair Powder, from Potatoes, by a process entirely new, besides a chance of the many valuable cash prizes. January 18. id
Fifty Dollars Reward.
RAN-AWAY from the Subscriber on the 26th December last, a Mulatto Man named TONEY, a Blacksmith by trade; he is about 24 years of age, 5 feet 10 inches high—had on when he went away a dark cloth suit coat and pantaloons—his right foot has been broken, which causes him to limp, and is much larger than the other—He travelled in the stage from Edenton to Suffolk, the 28th ult. I have understood he went by the name of Benjamin James while in Suffolk—I expect he will endeavour to pass as a free man. The above reward will be given to any person who will secure him in any jail so that I get him again, and all reasonable charges paid if delivered to me in Plymouth, North-Carolina.
JOHN WALKER.
January 8. 12*
Landing at Newton's wharf the Cargo of the sloop Dispatch, Samuel Hawley, master, from New-Haven, consisting of
Pork, Beef, Cheese, Hay, and 10 dozen Brooms. For Sale by Jennings & Rodney. December 18. id
Doctors Brown and Moseley, Respectfully inform their friends and the publick, that they have entered into partnership, and practice PHYSICK AND SURGERY. They may be consulted at their Shop, No. 47, Main-Street, adjoining Messrs. Southgate's Store. January 13. 1m
New Mode of Swindling.
Two Hundred Dollars Reward For apprehending the chief actor, RICHARD HARDEN.
Late of Pratt-Street, in the city of Baltimore, Grocer, who left said city on or about the 24th day of October last. The publick would confer an obligation on a person from whom he purchased a large quantity of goods, which together with others purchased from different persons, he sold to many others, chiefly to a Mr. Shawway, to whom he sold upwards of 6000 dollars worth; (Shawway had been his clerk), and likewise on whom he prevailed to endorse notes to a considerable amount, if they would forward a few lines, mentioning where he may be found, to E. F. care of the Editor of the Federal Gazette.
The said R. Harden is about 28 years of age, 5 feet 7 or 8 inches high, stout made, black complexion, a mark on his jaw like that of an evil, down look, and is a taylor by trade. When in Baltimore he was dressed in black, with a cape on his hat; he seems to have a general knowledge of business, and of the country; is a native of New-England. He formerly lived in Charleston, S. C. and in Newbern, N. C. The person he has taken in as above stated, is a man with a large family, from whom he has taken nearly the whole means of support for them and himself, and therefore claims the assistance of the publick in detecting him: Should the person giving information (so that he can be arrested) require it, the above reward will be given by the writer of this, who may be known on application to the Editor of the Baltimore Federal Gazette; and his name never be mentioned. N. B. It is supposed that Harden has gone to New-York, followed by several of his associates, at which place he will probably resume a trade to which he is no stranger. December 16. 4t

By His Excellency ROBERT WRIGHT, Esq. Governor of Maryland.
A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS some nefarious villain did on the eighteenth day of October, instant, attempt to assassinate JAMES B. ROBINS, on his return from Caroline County Court...
By his excellency's command, Ninian Pinkney, Clerk of the Council.
Five Hundred Dollars Reward.
BROKE Jail in August, 1805, in Snow Hill, Worcester County, JOHN WORRILLOW, who was committed on a charge for burglary, or house breaking...
John Worrilow is about five feet five or six inches high, aged about twenty-five years, of light complexion and slender make...
He is a blacksmith by trade, and when travelling about the country, frequently makes application to labour as a journeyman for a short time.
3 Robert Nairne, late Sheriff.
For RENT.
Two Tenements on Talbot Street, one of them possessing every convenience necessary for a genteel family...
First quality Jamaica COFFEE.
Just received and for Sale, 77 tierces and 24 barrels prime Green COFFEE. James & Thomas Tucker.
REMOVAL.
The Subscriber has removed to the large Fire-Proof Ware-House at the head of Maxwell's wharf, in Wide Water-Street...
7 pipes Country GIN, 20 barrels Whiskey, 36 do. Rum, 15 hds. do. do. 30 do. Mackarel, 30 do. Shad, 150 kegs Salmon...
Who transacts business on Commission, as usual. Jan. 1.
Just received and for SALE by the Subscriber, 10 hds. excellent retailing Molasses, 10 quarter casks Sherry Wine, 50 boxes superior bleached Mould Candles...
DAVID MILHADO. January 6.
The Subscribers have removed to the Brick Warehouse on Merchant's Wharf, and have on hand for Sale, 100,000 W. O. hhd. drawn STAVES...
A commodious WAREHOUSE. Proby, Harmanson, & Co. January 11.
For SALE.
75 tierces prime green Jam, Coffee, And a few puncheons 5 and 6 years old Antigua Rum; Loaf and Brown Sugar in hogsheads and barrels...
Harrison Allmand. January 4.
For SALE.
45,000 wt. good COFFEE in bags, 94 puncheons old St. Kitts RUM. MOSES MYERS. January 8.
NOTICE.
The Subscribers have removed to the Warehouse, No. 6, on Newton's wharf, formerly occupied by Messrs. John D. Haldane, & Co. JENNINGS & RODDEY. January 8.
St. Mary's College Lottery of Baltimore, Will commence drawing on the 31st instant, when the price of Tickets will be advanced.
Rowland & Triplett. December 18.
For RENT.
The STORE, No. 86, Main-Street, with or without the house. Thomas Blanchard. September 28.
St. Mary's College.
GRAND LOTTERY,
BALTIMORE.
Authorised by the General Assembly of the State of Maryland; the Scheme of which Lottery is the most brilliant ever offered to the citizens of the United States...
Table with 2 columns: Prize, Amount. 1 prize of - 30,000 Dollars, 1 do. of - 15,000, 3 do. of - 10,000, 2 do. of - 5,000, 8 do. of - 1,500, 7 do. of - 1,000.
Not two blanks to a prize, and the lowest prize twelve dollars. The Scheme contains only 21,500 Tickets; 10,000 of which are actually sold to a company of gentlemen in New-York...
Tickets and Shares are now selling in a variety of numbers, and very rapidly at Ten Dollars and an half each, for a very short time...
The grandeur of the Scheme of the above Lottery, together with an assurance from the managers that it will positively commence drawing on the 31st day of December next...
G. & R. Waite.
One of the above firm will personally attend the drawing daily to take down the numbers correctly, as will also one of their clerks.
The next New-York Lottery will not commence drawing till April next. Tickets of which Lottery may be had at Waite's Offices, in Maiden Lane, New-York.
N. B. Distant adventurers accompanying their orders with Bank Notes of any description, to either of Waite's Offices in Baltimore or New-York, may have Tickets and Shares forwarded to any amount with the utmost punctuality...
October 14. 3m
Now landing from the Schooner Prudence Mary, from New-York, 17 hds. first quality SUGARS, 54 barrels prime Pork, city inspection, 70 boxes Mould Candles; 5 hds. double refined Sugar...
William Hull, Jun. October 16.
Just got to Hand, 22 chests Hyson TEA, will be sold low for cash. George Wilson. Nov. 18.
For SALE, by the Subscriber, 34 hogsheads WHISKEY, 50 crates Earthenware; 10 casks Glass do. 53 boxes 8 by 10, 37 do. 10 by 12 Window Glass...
A. Maclure. November 13.
Now landing from on board the Schooner Mohawk, Roger Quarles, master, from Leghorn, 120 hogsheads Bordolease CLARET, 96 casks Roll Brimstone, 100 boxes Castle Marble Soap...
William Pennock. October 12.
For SALE, 2 elegant Bay Horses, a complete match, 2 do. grey do. do. 1 remarkable fine bay, and one very excellent grey Horse...
A. M'KINLEY, Silk, Cotton, and Woollen Dyer, No. 13, Bank-Street.
Respectfully informs the publick that he Cleans and Dyes all kinds of Silk and Satins, finishing them with neatness and dispatch; all kind of Gentlemen's Clothes cleaned and dyed...
November 30.
THE SUBSCRIBER Has removed to the brick store at the head of Campbell's wharf, fronting said wharf and Wide Water-street, where he offers at wholesale or retail his assortment of Groceries and Ship Chandlery.
Among which are 14 hogsheads Muscovado SUGAR, 1 do. and 6 barrels loaf do. 6 do. Antigua, Jamaica, and Grenada Rum, 3 pipes French Brandy, 2 hds. and 6 bbls Rye Whiskey...
Also just received, 20 boxes Lemons, 12 half bbls. Beef Tongues, 20 kegs Tongues and Sounds, 40 kegs and 2 bbls. Salmon, 5 bbls. Mackarel, 15 cases Sallad Oil, 1 cask Currants...
John D. Haldane. July 31.
For RENT, And possession given the 1st of Jan. next, that commodious three story brick DWELLING HOUSE in Church-street, at present occupied by Mr. Barth. Redman.
Wm. Plume & Co. Nov. 18.
For SALE, 5 cases only of superior PIGEON-EYE CHAMPAGN. Apply to the Editor of this Paper. Dec. 16.
WOOD & HASTINGS,
Staple and Fancy GOODS,
WOOLLEN GOODS.
Among which are Black Silk Velvet; Tabby, do.; Black Silk Florentine; Silk Handkerchiefs; do. Fancy Shawls; Convex Navy Buttons; fashionable Coat do.; a variety of French Goods...
They have also on hand a general and extensive assortment of WOOLLEN GOODS. Every description of fancy Muslins and Dresses; Velvets; Constitution and President's Cords; Dimities; Carpets; Hosiery, &c. &c.
On consignment, just received, Hussar and Backstrap BOOTS; Ladies' Kid and Morocco Shoes; Mens' coarse do.; coarse and fine Hats.
The above GOODS will be sold at very reduced prices for Cash, or undoubted credit, by wholesale and retail. December 11.
Baltimore Baker's FLOUR, of superior quality, for family use, for sale by T. & W. A. Armistead, Nov. 18.
The Subscriber offers for Sale at his Store in Market-Square, 20 hogsheads W. I. RUM, 10 pipes Cognac Brandy; 5 do. Country Gin, Sugar-Brown and Loaf, by the barrel or hogshead...
A parcel of DRY GOODS, Consisting of Woollens, Calicoes, Hats, and Hardware. In addition to the above, he intends keeping a constant supply of PORK and BEEF. Nov. 23.
For RENT, That commodious Dwelling-House on Catharine-Street, now in the occupancy of John D. Haldane—possession to be had the 1st day of January next ensuing—Terms made known by application to John Camp. December 11.
For SALE, 73 punch. choice Antigua RUM, 90 do. Grenada do. 600 bushels CORN, 50,000 drawn White and Red Oak STAVES, 60 barrels Pork. George Wilson. November 4.
For SALE, Imported in the Galliot Fortune, captain Norton, from Teneriffe, 100 pipes and 90 hds. L. P. Tene-rifle WINE, of superior quality. Apply to Phinehas Dana. September 23.
Coarse Liverpool SALT, For Sale on board the Ship Courtney, capt. Bryant, lying at my wharf. Apply to William Pennock. Who has on hand, Liverpool Blown and Cadiz SALT. September 16.
Landing from the ship Planter, and for sale at the subscriber's, at a low advance, A PARCEL OF Woollens, Bed Ticks, Hosiery, and other GOODS. Thomas Blanchard. September 28.
NOTICE. I am again compelled to solicit all those indebted to the estate of PHILIP COLLINS, deceased, to make immediate payment, as no longer indulgence can be given. Jane Collins, Adm'r x. December 9.
WANTED for the Ship Sheffield, A CARPENTER; also, two young LADS, from 14 to 15 years of age, as apprentices, not to go in the cabin or to cook. Apply to Josiah Cowper. December 9.
For SALE, 4000 bushels Ground Allum SALT, And a few well assorted crates of EARTHENWARE. George Murray, & Co. December 7.
Leather, Cordage, and Loaf Sugar. The subscriber will hereafter expose for Sale at his Warehouse on Campbell's wharf the above Articles, of the manufacture of Norfolk, at reduced prices for Cash, or on short credits only. Theo. Armistead. He will sell or lease for a term of years, the STORES at the end of Marsden's and Rothery's wharves. Feb. 20.
Just received and for sale by the subscriber, from New-York, 4 half pipes 3 qr. casks old London particular Madeira WINE; 50 dozen Old Port do. 20 kegs Beef Tongues; 50 kegs Salmon; 50 do. Mackarel, 50 do. Tongues and Sounds; 20 do. Lard, 20 bbls. Whiskey; 10 hds. N. E. Rum; 100 boxes Candles. Also—100 barrels Flour afloat. CARY SELDEN. December 2.
At Private Sale, By S. MARKS, Jun. Corner of Commerce and Water-street, 10 hds. Antigua, 12 do. N. E. 50 barrels do. RUM, 30 hds. and 20 barrels Sugar; 12 pipes Country Gin, 3 pipes Cognac Brandy; 150 boxes Mould Candles, 3 boxes Spermaceti Candles; 4 bales Blankets, 3 bales Blue Duffles; 1 do. fine Cloths; 2 do. blue Plains, 2 do. Rugs; 1 do. Check Shirts, 1 do. Ticklenburgs and Oznaburgs; 2 do. Heffians, 1 trunk Madras Handkerchiefs. October 24.
For SALE at my Brew-House,
Strong, Table, and ship BEER, by
Wines, Liquors, and Groceries,
wholesale and retail. Joseph Hayes. Feb. 13.
For RENT,
The DWELLING-HOUSE on Gran-
by-street, belonging to captain Vickery, next door to Robert Boush, Esq.—possession will be given on the first day of January next. For terms apply to Alexander Wilson. December 18.
Those who have claims against the estate of CHARLES WILLETT, deceased, are requested to bring their accounts properly authenticated; and those who are indebted are particularly requested to make payment as no indulgence can be given. William Storrs, Thomas Davis, Executors. September 30.
Thomas H. Parker, Offers for Sale, His Great-Bridge MILL, newly fitted up to run two pair of stones—The advantages of this mill are very great, only ten miles from Norfolk, and situated on a never failing stream...
Received per Schooner Traveller, from Boston, and for Sale, By EDWARD CLARK, 10 tons small, flat, and square Bar Iron, 100 buns assorted Nail Rods. Nov. 18.
200 boxes Mould CANDLES, 30 half boxes brown Soap, 10 boxes white do. 60 bags Coffee, 5 tierces do. prime green, 4 hogsheads and 10 barrels loaf Sugar, 12 do. Muscovado do. 10 quarter casks old Sherry Wine, 2 hds old L. P. Madeira do. 3 hds. Red Port, 50 do. retailing Molasses, 15 crates well assorted Queen's Ware, Country Rum and Gin in hds. and pipes—For Sale by Phinehas Dana. June 8.
For RENT, A commodious small DWELLING, with all suitable out-houses and a good garden, pleasantly situated on Smith's Point. Possession may be had on the first of November. P. Barraud. October 5.
For RENT, The Store, Compting-Room & Cellar, at present occupied by Mess. Wood & Hastings, no. 90, Main-street. Apply to Thomas Willock. August 24.
At the Old CUT-NAIL Manufactory, corner of Main and Church-streets, the subscriber keeps on hand constant supply, and can furnish at short notice, any quantity of Nails, Flooring Brads and Sprigs, At the following reduced prices, by the Keg—for cash only, viz— 8, 10, 12, and 20d Nails and Brads at 7 1-2d lb. 6d. Nails, 9 1-2d 4d. do. 2s. 9d. m. or 11d 3d. do. 2s. 3d. or 12d Sheathing, do. 7 1-2d 6d Sprigs, 4s. 6d per M 6d. do. 2s 9d 2d. and 3d. do. 2s. 3d He offers also for cash only HOOP IRON ASSORTED. Thos. Seaman.
For RENT, (And immediate possession given,) The Brick-House, Store, and Cellars, at the corner of Gilbert's Lane, on Main-street, near the market, an excellent stand for a Dry Good or Grocery Store. Apply to Niemeyer & Von Kapff. December 28.
NOTES OF HAND, according to the new form established by the Directors of the Office of Discount and Deposit of the Bank of the United States, for sale at this office. ALSO, NOTES for the Virginia Bank; Checks; Bills of Lading, and of Exchange, printed on paper of superior quality; and Shipping Articles on large paper, and approved form. LEDGER OFFICE.
Phoenix Fire-Office. The Subscriber, Agent to the PHOENIX ASSURANCE COMPANY, of London, for the State of Virginia, begs leave to inform the publick, that he is now fully empowered to subscribe Policies of Insurance for property against Fire throughout the United States of America, in conformity to the Proposals hereunto subjoined. N. B. FORTY THOUSAND DOLLARS can be insured in one risk on Buildings and their contents, and also on Ships and their Cargoes on board, in the First Class, but in all cases where Ten Thousand Dollars are exceeded, a special agreement must be made with the Agent, and an increase of premium added to those mentioned in the proposals, of not less than one eighth per cent. on the whole sum insured. Richard Taylor. September 8.
NORFOLK: PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A-WEEK, BY WILLIAM DAVIS, FOR THE PROPRIETOR, Opposite the Exchange Coffee-House. Price Six Dollars yearly, in advance.