Norfolk gazette and publick ledger (Norfolk [Va.]), 1808-01-08 00:00:00

NORFOLK GAZETTE And PUBLICK LEDGER  ENT HICKMAN STATE PRINTER
VOL. IV.]
FRIDAY EVENING, JANUARY 8, 1808.
[NO. 75.]
THIS PAPER IS PUBLISHED THREE TIMES A WEEK PRICE TO SUBSCRIBERS SIX DOLLARS PER ANNUM, PAYA- BLE 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.
For Freight or Charter, To any Port in the West Indies, the Schooner VICTORIA, burthen 99 tons or 800 barrels. Apply to
William Hull, Jun. December 21. Commerce-street.
FOR CHARTER, The fine new Ship PLUTARCH, George Bacon, master, burthen about 350 hogsheds.
Moses Myers. Dec. 16. tf
For Sale, Freight, or Charter, The American Ship MINERVA, Henry Keele, master, burthen 400 hhds. tobacco will be ready to receive a cargo in ten days— Apply to
Alexander Leckie, or Thomas Willock.
Who have for Sale on board, 8000 bushels Liverpool SALT. December 4. tf
Scotch Coals and Empty Bottles. 100 tons of the former and 200 crates of the latter, import- ed in the ship Industry from Glasgow—For Sale by William Pennock. Who offers
The said SHIP, burthen 260 tons, for Charter. October 7. tf
Liverpool SALT and COAL, For sale on board the ship Jane, William Colley, master— Apply to the subscriber,
William Pennock. Who offers said SHIP, burthen 420 tons, and the ship COURTNEY, burthen 200 tons for charter. October 5. tf
St. Mary's College Lottery of Balti- more,
Will commence drawing on the 31st instant, when the price of Tickets will be advanced. It is recommended to those wishing to adventure to apply immediately—Tickets now selling rapidly at Eleven Dollars, and but few remaining for Sale by
Rowland & Triplett. December 18. tf
Landing at Newton's wharf the Cargo of the sloop Dispatch, Samuel Hawley, master, from New-Hav- en, consisting of
Pork, Beef, Cheese, Hay, and 10 do- zen Brooms. For Sale by
Jennings & Roddey. December 18. tf
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
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. tf
First quality Jamaica COFFEE. Just received and for Sale, 77 tierces and 24 barrels prime Green COFFEE. James & Thomas Tucker. December 28. tf
REMOVAL. The Subscriber has removed to the large Fire-Proof Ware-House at the head of Maxwell's wharf, in Wide Water-Street, where he offers for SALE,
7 pipes Country GIN, 20 barrels Whiskey, 30 do. N. E. Rum, 15 hhds. do. do. 30 do. Mackerel, 30 do. Shad, 150 kegs Salmon, 150 kegs Tongues and Sounds, 50 boxes Soap, 60 boxes Mould Candles, 50 do. Spermaceti do 25 do. Chocolate, 28 do. assorted Cotton Cards, 4 chests Hyson Tea, 150 reams Writing Paper, 1 case Diapers, 150 sacks Liverpool Salt, 7 tons assorted Swedish Iron, 50 bundles Nail Rods, A quantity of coarse Woollen Goods—low for Cash. Edward Clark. Who transacts business on Commission, as usual. Jan. 1. tf
For SALE, A likely Negro GIRL, about 16 years of age, has been brought up in the house, and sold for no fault. Apply to the printer. January 1. 3
Those who have claims against the es- tate of CHARLES WILLETT, deceased, are requested to bring their accounts properly authenticated; and those who are indebted are particularly requested to make payment as soon as indulgence can be given. William Storrs, } Executors. Thomas Davis, } September 30. Lawton
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Tuesday, December 29.
Mr. Newton, from the committee of Com- merce and manufactures, reported in con- formity to the resolutions moved by Mr. Crowninshield yesterday, a bill supplementary to the act entitled "An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and har- bours of the United States."
A Bill, supplementary to the act, entitled "An act laying an embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbours of the United States."
Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the senate and house of representatives of the United States in congress assem- bled, That during the continuance of the act to which this act is a supplement, no vessel licensed for the coasting trade or fisheries, having on board goods, wares, or merchandise, either of foreign or domestic growth or manufacture, fishing vessels with salt for their fishing tares excepted, shall be allowed from any port of the United States, or shall receive a clearance, until the owner, consignee, a- gent, or factor, shall, with the master, give bond with one or more securities to the United States, in a sum double the value of the vessel and cargo, that the vessel is not destined for any foreign port or place, and that the said goods, wares, and merchan- dize shall be re-landed in some port of the U. States.
Sec. 2. And be it further enacted, That if any ship or vessel shall, during the continuance of the act to which this act is a supplement, depart from any port of the United States without a clearance, or if any ship or vessel shall, contrary to the pro- visions of this act, or of the act to which this act is a supplement, proceed to a foreign port or place, such ship or vessel and cargo shall be wholly for- feited, and if the same shall not be seized, the own- er of such ship or vessel shall, for every such of- fence, forfeit and pay a sum equal to double the va- lue of the ship or vessel and cargo, and the master or commander of such ship or vessel, as well as all other persons concerned in such prohibited foreign voyage, shall be respectively forfeit and pay the sum of 1000 dollars for every such offence, whether the vessel be seized and condemned or not.
Sec. 3. And be it further enacted, That the ex- ception made by the act to which this act is a sup- plement, in favour of armed vessels possessing pub- lic commissions from foreign powers shall apply only to public armed vessels, and shall not be con- strued to embrace either privateers, vessels having letters of marque, or any other private armed vessels; but such private armed vessels shall be permitted to depart in the same manner and on the same condi- tions as is provided for other private foreign ships or vessels.
Sec. 4. And be it further enacted, That if any for- eign ship or vessel shall, during the continuance of the act to which this act is a supplement, take on board any specie or any goods, wares, or mer- chandise, other than the cargo on board thereof when notified of the said act, or other than the provi- sions and sea-stores necessary for the voyage, such ship or vessel and the specie and the cargo on board shall be wholly forfeited, and may be seized and condemned in any court in the United States, hav- ing competent jurisdiction, and every and each per- son concerned in such unlawful shipment, shall for- feit and pay the sum of 1000 dollars for every such offence.
Sec. 5. And be it further enacted, That all pe- nalities and forfeitures incurred by force of this act, and which may be recovered, shall be distributed and accounted for in the manner prescribed by the act entitled "an act to regulate the collection of du- ties on imports and tonnage," passed the second day of May, one thousand seven hundred and nin- ety-nine, and may be mitigated or remitted in the manner prescribed by the act entitled "an act to provide for mitigating or remitting the forfeitures, penalties, and disabilities accruing in certain cases therein mentioned, passed the 3d day of March, 1797, and made perpetual by an act passed the 11th February, 1800.
Sec. 6. And be it further enacted, That the time during which the act to which this act is a supple- ment, shall continue in force, shall not be comput- ed as making part of the term of twelve calendar months, during which goods, wares, or merchan- dize imported into the United States must be re-ex- ported in order to be entitled to a drawback of the duties paid on the importation thereof.
Read twice and referred to a committee of the whole.
Mr. Newton, said as the bill was very im- portant, and it was necessary that it should pass through with as much expedition as pos- sible, the law laying the embargo being very defective, he moved that it be made the order of the day for this day.
Mr. Quincy objected to its consideration to- day, as the amendment was proposed to an important law; and if the supplementary law were passed in too much haste, it might be necessary in a few days to pass a law to amend the amendatory law. He wish- ed it to be laid on the table for this day, that they might come tomorrow prepared with all their intelligence on the subject.
Mr. Crowninshield was in favour of an im- mediate discussion. Gentlemen would recol- lect, that by the law laying an embargo, no pe- nalities had been laid on vessels departing contrary to its provisions. It was true that re- gistered vessels going from port to port were obliged to give bond that they would not land their cargoes at any foreign port; but no re-
striction was placed on licenced or coasting vessels. He had in his hand a letter which stated that certain vessels of the latter des- cription were now changing their registers and taking out coasting licences, as there was no restraint imposed on these by the act, and they might slip off to a foreign port with their cargo. Another provision of the act contem- plated the extension of the time for obtaining drawbacks. He hoped gentlemen were all ready to say that the defects in the law should be remedied; and he therefore hoped the bill would this day be considered.
Mr. Lyon said he should not agree to consi- der the bill till he had taken it home with him, read it, considered, and slept upon it.
Mr. Nicholas pressed the necessity of an immediate discussion.
To-morrow being named as the day the question was of course first taken on that day and negatived—Ayes 21.
To-day was then agreed to without a divi- sion.
Mr. Marion presented the petition of sun- dry merchants and others, in Charleston, S. C. stating that many vessels had cleared out from thence for the purpose of importing slaves, before the law was passed by congress prohibiting the importation of slaves, and some had cleared out immediately after the passing of the law, and had been detained by accidents beyond the time limited by law, and praying that a law may be passed affording them relief.
The question being put, on a motion made by Mr. Marion, for a reference of this peti- tion to the committee of commerce and manu- factures.
Mr. Masters said, if there was any subject in favour of which a petition should not be re- ferred, it was the slave trade. The petitioners knew when the prohibitory law would go into operation, and they were not entitled to re- lief by the laws of God or man.
The motion for reference was negatived— Ayes 37, Nays 59.
Mr. Smith of Virginia, obtained leave of absence till Saturday.
On motion of Mr. Newton, the house went into committee of the whole, Mr. Cutts in the chair, on the bill this day reported, for amend- ing the embargo law.
The first section having been read,
Mr. Quincy said, when the law imposing the embargo was before the house, he had the honour to submit a motion with respect to fishermen. This was rejected on the ground that it was important to keep our men within the United States. This amendatory law, he presumed, was intended to give fishing ves- sels a limited privilege of going out to fish. Mr. Q. doubted whether the law would be ef- fectual, because it prohibited vessels from carrying goods foreign or domestic, salt ex- cepted; it might by a strict construction ex- clude their apparatus or stores. That it might be clearly understood that this class of citizens were not to be deprived of their usual privi- lege, he moved that the following proviso be added to the end of the section:
And provided that nothing in the act to which this is a supplement shall be construed to prohibit the sailing of any ship or vessel duly registered, enrolled or licensed for car- rying on the whale and other fisheries with the usual tackle, apparel, and supplies customary on a fishing voyage.
Mr. Crowninshield objected to the amend- ment as supererogatory; because he consi- dered it implied in the law imposing the em- bargo that fishing vessels were excepted: and this he conceived to be the reason why the a- mendment then proposed by the gentleman last up had not prevailed.
Mr. Quincy supported his amendment, conceiving his colleague's construction of the law incorrect; and believing that the amend- ment offered by him to the original law had been rejected for very different reasons than those just stated, and which were then urged.
Mr. W. Alston, proposed to the gentleman to withdraw his amendment, in order to move the insertion of the words "apparatus and stores" after the word "salt."
Mr. Macon would rather the question should have been first tried on the principle, by striking out the clause excepting fishing vessels. In the decision on the amendment moved by the gentleman from Massachusetts to the embargo law, gentlemen had voted a- gainst it from different reasons. Mr. M's reason for voting against it was to keep with- in the limits of the United States every thing which would sustain life. His reason for vot- ing in favour of the bill (he knew it would bear hard on fishermen, but equally so to every part of the community) was to try whether they could not produce an effect on the pow- ers of Europe; he therefore wished to pre- vent provisions or supplies of any kind from going out of the United States, until a settle- ment of our differences was had. If the bill were to remain in its present situation, and fishing vessels were to give no security for their return, he could not conceive why whale
fishermen should not be as well included as fishermen on our banks. Was there not a motion now before the house, Mr. M. would move to strike out the exception in favour of fishing vessels, to try the question at once.
Mr. Taylor called the attention of the house to the section proposed to the embargo bill by the gentleman from Massachusetts, and which included every idea that was sug- gested by the present amendment. Mr. T. had understood that the bill now under consi- deration was intended to narrow down and clear the imperfections visible in the original bill. It appeared to him that it went to wi- den instead of narrowing the bill; it contain- ed the very proposition which had in the dis- cussion on the former bill been negatived 82 to 45. The same principle was precisely em- braced; and he need say no more after stat- ing the division on the former question.
Mr. Quincy said that it was now intended to extend the provisions of the bill to whale and bank fisheries equally, and he tho't this could be so restricted as to prevent infractions of the embargo on goods, wares or merchandise.— They had no more right to prevent fishermen from exercising their usual avocations, than to prevent a man from taking his produce from his own farm. This business could not be included under the general head of commerce; it was distinct from commerce altogether.— He wished to have the sense of the house on this question specially understood and clearly designated. It was therefore his duty to in- sist on his amendment.
Mr. F. Montgomery said, that when this subject was before acted on, it was conceded that there were defects in the bill, and that a supplementary law might be brought forward to prevent evasions of the original law. This course was now pursued; the committee of Commerce and Manufactures had reported a bill for preventing evasions that might be prac- tised under the law imposing the embargo.— Since that law had passed, information had been received that evasions were already prac- tised under it; information had been receiv- ed, that, as coast-wise commerce was per- mitted by the embargo, merchants were giv- ing up their registers and taking out licenses; this was the practice of this day in several ports of the United States. It became their duty to provide a remedy for this elusion of the law, to close the door on evasion. What was the effect of the proviso under conside- ration? While the first section closed one the proviso moved as an amendment to it, opened two doors. Was it not known that merchants sometimes did evade the provi- sions of laws, and that they were now exercis- ing all their ingenuity to evade the law passed the other day? That law prohibited register- ed or sea-letter vessels from sailing, but per- mitted vessels to sail coast wise; the mer- chants were therefore turning all their vessels into coasters; and if this law passed with the proviso they might call merchant vessels fish- ing vessels or whalers. Mr. M. hoped the good sense of the house would not open more doors to fraud or evasion than already were open under the embargo law. He considered this proposition a mere tub to the whale; and hoped it would catch no person in the house.
Mr. Lyon considered with the gentleman from S. C. (Mr. Taylor) that it was not in- tended that the fishermen should go out while other classes of citizens could not receive be- nefit from their lumber or tar. He was in fa- vour of telling these men explicitly that they should or should not go out.
Mr. Bacon said it appeared that these fish- eries were a great and permanent source of wealth to the nation, and he believed the ex- ercise of that occupation could be so regulat- ed as not to let in any invasion of the general policy of the law; if this could be effected, there could be objection to the object. The only question then was whether such a provi- sion could be made in favour of fishing ves- sels, as should prevent them from carrying on an illegal commerce, and shut the door on evasion. An amendment to this effect had been negatived the other day, not he believed because the house was opposed to the princ- iple it contained, but because they did not wish the bill to be encumbered at that time by any other provisions than those it already contained. Neither this nor any other law could be so constructed that an evasion could not be made; but he believed that it might include the right of fishing without affecting the general provisions of the embargo. There was proposed, by the second section of the bill under consideration, a forfeiture and per- sonal penalty on all persons infringing the ge- neral provision of the embargo law; a person might undertake a voyage contrary to law; but if he did he incurred this penalty. The small inconvenience (if any) which would a- rise from permitting fishing vessels to sail, would by no means counterbalance the ill ef- fects of a restriction to fishermen from pur- suing their usual avocation. If this permis- sion was not already implied, he should be in favour of expressing it.

Mr. Newton explained the law in regard to licensing fishing vessels. Although vessels of more than 60 tons were not usually employed in this trade, yet, if not otherwise engaged, vessels of 100 or 500 tons might take out licenses for fishing. What had induced the committee to insert this clause in the bill was, that the people in the Northern states were accustomed to supply themselves with fish. As the law now stood, they were excluded from fishing even for their own use.
Mr. Livermore said the amendment offered by the gentleman from Massachusetts seemed to be opposed by different gentlemen on different grounds; and he must say that he was surprised to hear one of his colleagues object to it. The proviso contemplated nothing more than rendering more explicit the first section of the bill. If the first section was essentially wrong, the proviso was unnecessary; if it was the intention of congress to allow fishing vessels to go out, why not make the section more explicit? He had no idea of stealing a march upon the legislature. If it was their intention, and he prayed that it might be, to let fishing vessels proceed on their business, let it be explicitly expressed. He did not know that the law imposing an embargo, which he had opposed as much as he could, and the passage of which he should ever regret, might have afforded that privilege by implication; but as it had now become a question before the legislature he wished the intention to be explicitly expressed. This much in favour of the proviso: if that were rejected he should still vote for the first section. He did not precisely know whether it was necessary now to go into a discussion of the propriety of allowing the full exercise of the business of fishing. He felt for the people, who would by this act be forced to obtain a precarious subsistence by begging. To throw 6000 citizens out of employ, to cast them on the world, to force them to go to foreign countries for employ and livelihood, was to him a serious evil. He hoped that it would be decided that this class of citizens should not be altogether deprived of the means of subsistence; he could see no occasion for it. He conceived that a general embargo could not be intended to deprive them of what was their necessary avocation; the drawing something from the depth of the sea, the making something out of nothing. These men brought property in the United States to a large amount—a statement of the annual income of the fisheries had fixed it at three millions of dollars—three millions out of nothing. To prevent them from following an avocation so beneficial to themselves and to the community was in his opinion a serious evil. By suffering them to pursue their avocation on the ocean, did it permit these men to violate any existing law? There was in such a permission no other risk than the mere chance of their being captured or pressed into the British service. He begged gentlemen who came from parts of the union different from himself, to exercise candor, he requested them to consider the effect of this embargo upon a large proportion of his constituents, to weigh the question, whether they would do any essential service to the country by inhibiting this particular trade. He wished gentlemen to place themselves in the situation of these men if they could, and consider for a moment that they were deprived of the means of obtaining a livelihood, which they could not obtain in any other way, and would be driven into the service of foreign governments to obtain from them the protection refused by the United States. He did not pretend to more expanded views than others, but it was certainly astonishing to him, where gentlemen could discover a necessity for preventing fishermen from going on the ocean to obtain their accustomed livelihood? Whence could a benefit result to the United States from such a denial? Was it considered an injury in 1794 that fishermen should exercise their calling during the existence of an embargo? No. The only apprehension then was, according to documents which were read the other evening, that possibly the embargo might be evaded by fishing vessels exporting goods; it was then never imagined that going on the fishing grounds and taking fish could have an injurious tendency. As the law now stood he should put the same construction on it as the gentleman from Massachusetts; but as it might create difficulties among the collectors, he wished it to be more explicit, except, and he hoped not, it was their intention to prevent fishing vessels from going out of the United States.
Mr. Crowninshield explained his reasons for opposing the amendment. He said that the same provision was already expressed in the first section of the bill, and implied in the embargo law; he was decidedly in favour of it, and that fishermen should be allowed to go on the banks, and bring their fish into the United States. He would not admit, even if the provision were struck out of the first section, that their citizens would be obliged to starve in the streets, or seek employ in foreign countries. It was not the intention of the house to deprive these worthy men of the means of subsistence; and he did not wish such an idea to be impressed on the public. If they were deprived of their subsistence, they might think congress had acted unjustly, but they would submit; they would not seek the service of foreign countries, more particularly of Great-Britain. He should not have risen, had not an attempt been made to convey an idea that he was opposed to the principle of the proviso; he was not opposed to it; he believed they ought to be allowed to fish; and he believed if the bill was allowed to pass as it now stood, that the secretary of the treasury would conceive himself authorised to permit them to go abroad on their fishing voyage; the secretary himself had told Mr. C. that he should so consider the intention of the law.
Mr. Quincy expressed himself opposed to hastening the decision of a measure of so important and complicated a nature as this without one moment's consideration. It seemed from the conversation which had taken place that an addition to this proviso would make it more palatable; he therefore moved to amend his motion by adding as follows: "And provided also that bond with sufficient security be previously given that such ship or vessel shall not directly or indirectly carry on any commerce whatsoever, during the voyage, and shall return with her fishing fare to some port or place within the United States."
Mr. Macon doubted whether the amendment as now stood would be attended with its complicated effect; for the first part of the first section excepted these vessels from giving bond, while the proviso proposed declared that they should give bond. While up he would make a few remarks. The gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Livermore) seem-
ed to suppose that gentlemen who opposed the amendment wanted candour; Mr. M. supposed he must mean him, because he was the only person who had opposed it; he would not say whether this severe charge attached with justice to him, but the house would judge who had so long known him. The same gentleman had said, if this exemption were not made in favour of fishermen, they would go to foreign countries. If this position was sound the whole law was wrong. Where was the difference between fishermen out of employ and sailors out of service? Would not one as soon as the other seek foreign service? If they had so little patriotism, one description would go as soon as the other. The embargo was intended totally to stop our exports; but the gentleman said fishing was a regular business. So was navigating vessels a regular business of seamen; it was the means by which they lived. Another gentleman from Massachusetts was not perfectly correct as to the construction given by the secretary of the treasury to the law, which operated no farther than the opinion of those concerned were in concurrence with this opinion. All the secretary could do, was to give his instructions; and those who thought them not correct could appeal from his construction of the law.
Mr. Livermore said, if any observation had fallen from him impeaching the candour of the gentleman from N. Carolina, he would retract it, for he had seen as much candour in the conduct of that gentleman as of any other within these walls. It is true he had called for candour on this subject, in which he was so nearly interested; he conceived that the feelings of some gentlemen might be different from the feelings of his constituents, and he had called upon gentlemen candidly to consider the subject. He agreed with the gentleman as to the construction of the law; for every person concerned should put such a construction on the law as the words implied. Mr. L. thought they were now going too hastily on this subject; he had been of the same opinion when the embargo law was under consideration, and in every stage of it.
He thought they should not hastily have passed the law; and he had contended that there was no necessity for that precipitation which had prevailed, for taking a leap in the dark, when every consideration should have induced them to pause and proceed with deliberation. And the house were now proceeding on this bill without having had time to consider it; the committee of Commerce and Manufactures had reported, that the house was called upon implicitly to follow them, without further light on the subject. The gentleman had said that the same argument would apply to sailors as to fishermen; that they also might throw off their allegiance to the United States. This was the very thing Mr. L. had contended in conclave, and would have contended for it longer, had not his voice been drowned by the noise which was made, and the determination which was manifested to prevent debate. The colossal power of a majority had put down the still small voice of reason and had declared that strength alone should reign. While he had a right to give his voice, Mr. L. said, he would argue against measures, brought forward and pressed on so precipitately, when founded on false or fallacious grounds. It seemed as if it had been determined to run headlong into them without giving reason time to operate. If the present law were to be passed in this manner, in a few days perhaps gentlemen would come forward with a proposition to amend this, as this was a proposition to amend the former. From the short time which he had to consider the measure in its present form (though he had revolved the general measure and its ill effects repeatedly in his mind) he had not sufficient time to consider the different provisions of the bill. He therefore moved that the committee rise and obtain leave to sit again.
Mr. Love pressed the decision of the question on the amendment, and opposed the motion for the rising of the committee. There was now no question of policy or impolicy of an embargo to be considered; the only question was, to secure that part of the citizens of the United States, who obtained a livelihood by fishing, from infractions of the general provisions of the laws. Why should they deprive the fishermen of their wonted occupation, if they gave proper security that they should not touch at a foreign port? This was a plain question on which every one could decide.
Mr. J. Montgomery observed that the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Livermore) had done well in allowing the gentleman from N. C. a claim to candour, for his conduct ever did evidence his liberality. But were not other gentlemen entitled to the same allowance? Mr. M. was not much acquainted with the gentleman from Massachusetts, but he should conceive from the language he had used, that the anathema which he had pronounced against others, recoiled upon himself. What did the gentleman mean by the colossal power of the majority? Where did this exist to the exclusion of the still small voice of reason? Mr. M. had seen no evidence of it in this house during the discussion of the law which the gentleman had alluded to. If that gentleman had a particle of candour in his composition, he would appeal to it whether liberality and forbearance were not the order of the day? What was the conduct of the majority on that evening when language was used unworthy of a representative of a citizen? They manifested a forbearance at which he had been astonished. While he was up, Mr. M. said he would take occasion to notice a letter which had appeared in New-York and other papers purporting to be a letter from a member of congress, bearing date the 19th of December. Mr. M. could not believe that any gentleman on the floor could use such language as was contained in that letter. What member would rise in his place and tell the house that they were under French influence, knowing as he must that no such influence existed? What man would tell the house that French influence guided them, and that they in consequence of it were acting in conclave? What man would express his abhorrence of their proceedings and tell them that their conduct was infamous? Mr. M. could not conceive that any man who could use this unprincipled language would be entitled to a seat on this floor. No; he would not believe that this letter could be written by a member of congress; he must pronounce it a foul, base and unprincipled calumny.
The law of embargo was now passed; it was the duty of every man to rally around the measure, and of congress, to make such amendment as would render it complete. It was now a late hour, but he thought the principle under consideration should be decided before they adjourned.
[The following is the letter alluded to. It originally appeared in the New-York Evening Post, and is pronounced by the republican prints of New-York the production of Mr. Gardenier. It will be remarked, from its date, that it was written while the injunction of secrecy still remained in force.]
Washington, Dec. 19th, 1807.
"DEAR SIR, "Yesterday we received a message from the president of a confidential nature. We immediately closed our doors, and they are still closed. Of course I am not permitted to inform you either what the president has communicated to us, or what we have done in consequence of it. But I may be permitted to tell you we are doing no good. I fear we are about to plunge the nation into the most dreadful calamities—unnecessarily and wantonly—I am now more than ever persuaded that there is but two much FRENCH INFLUENCE. And it is well that those who succumb to it, should act in secret. This is the reason, and I pledge myself to you, almost the only reason why we sit with closed doors. Our deliberations no more require secrecy at this moment, than they did when we were debating on the subject of fortifications.—Nay, sir, we are in my opinion, violating the great rights of the people, by sitting at this moment with closed doors. I cannot express to you in terms sufficiently strong, my abhorrence of what we are doing, and the manner in which we are doing it."
The motion for the committee to rise was negatived, ayes 32.
Mr. Milnor said the house was now very thin, and it was desirable, that on measures of so much importance they should have a full expression of the opinion of the house. When the original embargo law was passed, a large number of members were present; it was then wished to postpone the bill, and in vain urged that there had not been sufficient time maturely to digest it. The present bill contemplated an amendment to that act; and it had been but a very short time before the house; he hoped they should have further time to consider it. He was not prepared to vote for this amendment; for although he might be in favour of fishermen pursuing their usual employment, the license for that purpose should be so restricted as to render evasion impossible. True he did not vote for the law laying an embargo; but since it did exist, he wished that it should be carried into full effect, that there should be no evasion; and he sincerely wished it might answer the purpose contemplated by the gentleman who first proposed it. He understood that one of the principal objects of the embargo was to preserve our seamen; now he did think that if a free and unrestrained license was granted to fishermen, it would be the means of drawing out a large proportion, and thus expose them to impressment by the British. This is one great reason which would induce him to vote against the amendment; he was not however prepared to decide, and he wished further time to digest it; he considered it a matter of more importance than most gentlemen seemed to be aware of. If every vessel in the United States was at liberty to take out a fishing licence, it was necessary to guard the privilege by strong restrictions and larger security. As the bill under consideration now stood, it expressed that bond with sufficient security should be given; this loose and undefined expression would put it in the power of the officers of the revenue to connive at evasions. He was opposed to the amendment under consideration, & even to the section as it now stood.
Mr. Smilie hoped the committee would at least decide on the amendment; when it might be proper to rise and resume the subject to morrow morning; at the same time he thought the bill should pass as soon as possible. When gentlemen were talking on this subject, he wished them to consider whether other classes of citizens were not equally affected by this measure as fishermen. He wished the house to recollect that the measure which it had been obliged to adopt, subjected the whole agricultural interest to great inconvenience, and did not affect commerce only. Would they have ever had a contest with Great Britain or France, but for the carrying trade? They would not. Had not their tables been loaded with petitions from these men for years, calling upon Congress forcibly to take some measure for the protection of their men and vessels? Had not this been the class of men who had called most loudly for energetic measures, and should they now enjoy an exemption while all other classes suffered deprivation? He hoped not.—With respect to seamen he entertained an opinion different from that which had been expressed by some gentlemen; he thought they had too much patriotism to go into foreign service; they had been tried and found worthy of trust, and would be found so now. The house had been told that these men, thrown out of employ, would be obliged to beg in the streets for subsistence. Mr. S. said such would not be the case; the man who in this country wanted bread, must be a man who did not deserve it. If men could not find subsistence on the water their country was blessed with abundant soil. What did gentlemen mean by opposition to measures now adopted? Did they intend to give up all claim to our rights as an independent nation, or did they mean to make a stand against oppression? If they mean to contend that the power of making money was more valuable than our national rights, let them openly express it. What measure would they propose as a substitute to that which had been adopted? They had not submitted any other when this was under consideration. He hoped he should be clearly understood as conveying the idea, that whilst he was willing to do justice to the mercantile interest of the country, and grant them any protection which was consistent with the honour and interest of the country, they must not look for exclusive privileges; they must partake of the general stock, and suffer the same privations as other parts of the community.
Mr. Quincy said that fishermen and merchants whom the gentleman last up had confounded together, were totally distinct classes of people. The object of the embargo was expressed in the message of the president of the United States, and it had no other object than that. The allowing fishermen to go about on the coast and banks to obtain a livelihood (the only way in which they could support themselves) was not at all within the object for which the president had recommended an embargo. Gentlemen had said that they could obtain a livelihood on land. Mr. Q. said they could not; they were accustomed only to water. Would the house then doom this industrious class of people to distress and want, by a deprivation of their only means of subsistence?
Mr. Holland moved that the committee should rise. He believed that no gentleman wished to deprive any particular class of citizens of their occupation; but merely to secure the general embargo from infraction; and this they would do more effectually after further consideration.
The committee then rose and obtained leave to sit again.
Mr. Basset presented the following resolution, which he considered of importance, and wished to put it in a way of being considered.
Whereas the constitution of the United States provides, that no officer of the government shall be eligible to a seat in either house of congress, thereby establishing the genuine republican principle, that the members of the representative body should be exempt from every improper bias. And as it is the bounden duty of the representatives of the people to give the fullest effect to constitutional principles,
Resolved, That provision ought to be made by law to prohibit the officers of government from making any contract, on behalf of the United States, with any person being a member of either house of congress, or with any other person for his or their use.
Resolved, That every contract hereafter to be made on the part of the government of the United States, shall contain a clause or condition to render the contract absolutely void, if the contractor should be elected a member of either house of congress.
Resolved, That any officer, infringing the foregoing provisions, ought to be punished by removal from office, and incapacity of ever after holding any office.
These resolutions were referred to a committee of the whole on Monday next.
WEDNESDAY, Dec. 30.
On motion of Mr. Newton, the house resolved itself into a committee of the whole on the bill supplemental to the act laying an embargo.
Mr. Quincy's motion for amendment being yet under consideration.
Mr. Newton said, that as considerable difficulty had yesterday arisen on the consideration of the bill, from the clause respecting fishermen not being sufficiently explicit, if the gentleman from Massachusetts would withdraw his motion, he would propose a new section as a substitute to the first.
Mr. Quincy said he had no particular preference for any form, if he obtained his object, and withdrew his motion for adding a proviso, when
Mr. Newton moved to strike out the first section of the bill: which being agreed to,
Mr. Newton moved the insertion of a new section, to the same effect as the other, but in somewhat different terms.
Mr. Macon, to settle the principle at once, moved to strike out that part making an exception in favour of fishing vessels.
The motion was negatived—Ayes 23. The new section moved by Mr. Newton was then agreed to without a division.
The bill then progressed by paragraphs. In the course of its consideration, many verbal amendments were made, not materially affecting the principle of the bill, on which a desultory conversation took place. The two most material amendments proposed are hereafter noticed.
The fourth section, imposing a penalty and forfeiture on all foreign vessels which shall during the embargo "take on board any specie or goods" other than provisions, &c. being under consideration.
Mr. Macon did not wish to encumber this law for explaining the former law with provisions in themselves impracticable; he therefore moved to amend the section by striking out the words in italick, relative to specie; as he believed it would be utterly impracticable to enforce that prohibition.
This motion was supported by Messrs. Marion, Pitkin, Dana, Macon, and Quincy, and opposed by Messrs. Crowninshield, Newton and Taylor.
The advocates of the motion generally contended for it on the ground of expediency; that if the exportation were not permitted, citizens indebted in foreign countries could not pay their debts when they became due, as they were already prohibited from sending produce; that the denial of the right to export specie would operate very severely on these merchants, as they must either lose their credit, or pay an enormous premium for bills of exchange which would be above par, which loss some merchants, supposing that the present state of things would not continue for any length of time, would suffer rather than risk the destruction of their credit abroad, and of course of their business; that money was useful only when in circulation, and accumulated millions in the country would be a loss to the community; that such a prohibition would afford an opportunity for speculation, so much money being locked up in the country, dollars would become much below par in value, whereas a premium of 3 and 4 per cent. had been heretofore given for silver to send to the East Indies or China; that the general restriction on specie supposed to be implied in the former law would effect only the master, commander, or owner, while every other person concerned as sailors, &c. could not be prevented from carrying it on board; that an idea had been thrown out that this permission to export would indulge the merchant and affect the planter injuriously, which was not correct, for it would be impossible to prevent this money going out of the country in some way; if it was possible to prevent its exportation from ports of the United States, it would exclude through the channel of the neighbouring provinces. It was also contended, that it was totally impracticable to prevent the exportation of specie; that the most powerful monarchies in the world had in vain attempted that object; that the small bulk in which specie could be conveyed, would render it impossible to prevent its exportation; that such prohibitory laws generally had an effect contrary to that intended; and the experience of other governments had proved, that from the moment such a law enacted, specie became more and more scarce, till it could scarcely be procured at all.
Those who opposed the motion, and of course advocated the restriction of exportation of specie, contended that it was highly expedient to prohibit the exportation, because if it were allowed foreigners alone would be benefited by it, as they could bring goods from the West-Indies or elsewhere, and carry specie in return; in reply to the hardship on merchants, which was complained of, it was said that while planters and farmers were suffering by their produce having become of little or no value, it would be absurd to allow merchants to export specie, merely because they would otherwise have to pay interest on money due by them in foreign coun-

tries; [Mr. Newton denied that bills of exchange would increase in value from the effects of embargo] the effect of a permission to foreigners to export specie would be, that they could bring their produce or manufacture into this country, and take away specie in return, while by the general embargo our produce was rotting in stores, and could not be exported; that the prohibition of the exportation was no doubt implied by the law laying the embargo, though it would be well it should be here expressed, as this law was intended to give the other a more effectual operation. In reply to the assertion of the impracticability of enforcing a law prohibiting the exportation of specie, it was contended that although foreign powers had prohibited the exportation it had been under a penalty merely of perhaps 10 or 15 per cent. on the amount, while the present law contemplated not only the forfeiture of vessel and cargo concerned in the infraction of the law, but besides imposed a personal penalty for every offence of the kind; that the case of other nations therefore did not apply to this; that the prohibition could as easily be carried into effect on specie as on goods; the revenue officers being faithful and seeing the laws strictly enforced; that it would be the duty of the secretary of the treasury to put an inspector on board every foreign vessel in port, and to retain him on board till such vessel sailed, to prevent the law from being infringed: that the small space occupied by specie would not afford so great an opportunity as was imagined of conveying it clandestinely away, for although there was by the general laws of the United States, a heavy duty on the importation of watches and jewellery (which occupied as little compass at least as specie) there were very few, if any instances of their being smuggled into the country.
The question being taken on Mr. Macon's motion for striking out the prohibition on exporting specie, was negatived—Ayes 24.
Mr. Mumford offered the following as a provision to be added to the 6th and last section (which extends the time for obtaining drawbacks):
And that the term now allowed by law for the payment of all bonds on goods, wares and merchandise imported into the United States shall be, and the same is hereby extended for and during the term of six months beyond the time specified on said bonds.
Considerable objection being made to this by several gentlemen on the ground of its being too extensive and the difficulty of fixing a precise period for the extension of the time when these bonds should become due, and also from the great injury which the revenue would sustain from such a measure,
The above amendment was so modified as to extend the payment of the bonds beyond and during the continuance of the act laying an embargo.
This motion was negatived—Ayes 13.
The bill having been gone through the committee rose and reported it to the house.
A message was received from the President of the United States on Indian affairs, and referred to the committee on military and naval establishments.
Boston, Dec. 25.
From HALIFAX.
By the schooner Loyalty, capt. Power, arrived yesterday, we received letters from Halifax to the 10th, and papers to the 8th instant.
Halifax, Dec. 8.
On Tuesday last, the Legislature of this Province assembled. The following is an extract from the Speech of His Excellency the Lt. Governor, delivered by commission:
"Differences having, unfortunately, arisen between His Majesty's Government, and that of the United States of America, threatening an interruption to the peace and amity subsisting between them;—I deemed it necessary for his Majesty's service, and being requested thereto, by the Commander in Chief of his Majesty's forces here, as a measure of precaution, and to assist the garrison in repairing and strengthening the fortifications in this place, to order a proportion of the Militia to be called into actual service; and I have the greatest reason to be satisfied with the zeal and alacrity with which the order has been obeyed. As it may be requisite to continue them in service should war be declared, or until an accommodation of the differences shall take place, I recommend to the assembly to grant a sum of money sufficient to enable me to provide the men on duty with such warm clothing, as may be proper to render them comfortable during the severity of winter; and to be expended wholly, or in part, as circumstances may require."
December 10.
"The Triumph, 74, capt. Hardy, is ordered to be ready for sea to-morrow for the Chesapeake. The captain carries his new married lady with him—so that it does not appear he expects to have much fighting to do.—Admiral Berkeley sails for Bermuda next week, in the Leopard, capt. Humphreys."
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 24th ult. I have understood he went by the name of Benjamin Jones 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.
January 8. JOHN WALKER.
NOTICE.
The Subscribers have removed to the Ware-House, No. 6, on Newton's wharf, formerly occupied by Messrs. John D. Haidane, & Co.
JENNINGS & RODDEY. January 8.
By virtue of a Deed of Trust given by
Hannah Brown, and others, in order to secure the payment of a sum of money due John M'Phail, Will be Sold on the 19th day of this month to the highest bidder, without reserve,
A Two-Story HOUSE, situated on
Park Street, calculated for two tenements, Nos. 38 and 40, fitted for retail stores and dwellings, with suitable out-houses, all built of the best materials and well finished.
Terms of Sale—one third Cash, the balance in approved notes at 60 days.
William Simington, Trustee. January 6.
THE PUBLICK LEDGER.
FRIDAY EVENING, JANUARY 8, 1807.
Mr. ROSE. The difficulties which have existed with respect to this gentleman are removed. We learn from unquestionable authority, that orders have been received from the government, directing that with respect to the frigate Statira , she is to be received with her officers and crew, as they would have been received and treated before the Proclamation was issued. This was all that was required by Mr. Rose, who we understand sets out immediately for the seat of government.
The debate on the bill supplementary to the act imposing an embargo, deserves the serious attention of the reader. It sheds some glimmering ray of light upon the proceedings in conclave, proving that the measure was carried with haste, without argument or reflection. As to the people who are called upon to rally round this measure of congress, we would ask what do the people know about it? Their representatives refuse to let them know the motives which induced a measure, that all agree will inflict sufferings upon every class of citizens.—Gentlemen in Congress may suppose that the confidence due to their talents and patriotism, ought to satisfy their constituents, that the measure has been adopted from motives of policy. With regard to motives we shall not judge, but we shall doubt their talents, and surely the abundant evidence which this and almost every other debate affords, ought to cause doubts.
[The following remarks are copied from the New-York American Citizen , a leading democratic paper, but remarkable for its independence.]
EMBARGO.
I am about to enquire into the cause of the embargo, and to express my opinion on the embargo itself. I will do this as one having publick duties of an important nature to perform.
Two causes have been given for the embargo; the one private, the other publick.
The reasons privately assigned, are some disagreeable propositions made by Napoleon to our executive through the medium of Champagny and Armstrong, whose letters have not been published.
The cause publickly assigned is, principally, Napoleon's blocking decree of Nov. 21, 1806, and incidentally, the late proclamation of the king of England.
There was not one circumstance in our affairs with England, which in the opinion of the president and of congress, as the reader shall see, rendered an embargo necessary in relation to her, although as I shall by-and-by show, it was prudent to extend it to her. As I purpose to evince the former assertion, namely, that in the opinion of the president and of congress an embargo was not necessary with regard to England, I beg the attention of the reader to dates and their accompanying circumstances.
Why would it be improper to make these letters publick? We may reason from what is, to what in all human probability is not.
We are in possession of the imperial decree of November 21, and the president has himself furnished us with Napoleon's construction of it, signed by the "grand judge," Regnier. The letters of Messrs. Armstrong and Champagny can therefore have no reference to that decree, nor to Napoleon's express application of it to us, for of that decree and of the imperial explanation we are already officially in possession. What then do these letters contain? Why, I ask again, would it be improper to make them publick?
We are privately informed (not I in particular) that they contain demands of a very disgraceful nature.
Napoleon, the inexorable tyrant of Europe, he who in society has confounded the moral and political relations of man to man—blasted with his pestilential breath the germinations of republicanism in Europe—rivetted anew upon the poor and the oppressed the ignoble and galling chains of slavery, and destroyed even hope itself of a better state of things in that unfortunate portion of the globe; this man, this great enemy of freedom, not content with lording it over all continental Europe, has stretched forth his strong and bloody arm across the Atlantick, and menaced us with WAR, unless we comply with his insolent demands to shut our ports against the commerce of England!
Such are the intimations which are privately given of the contents of "Messrs. Armstrong and Champagny's letters, which it would be improper to make publick," but upon which the embargo is founded.
Who then is surprised at the embargo? Who is more that will not rejoice that, in contempt and defiance of Napoleon's threat, it has been laid? For, if we had crouched from his power and shrunk from his threats, there would have been no difference between Switzerland and the United States; for we should have been no longer an INDEPENDENT NATION.
But I must premise, that dates, facts, and reasoning may be clearly comprehended, that congress had a given, and important duty to perform; that it maturely deliberated upon that duty, and that the result of its deliberation was—inaction. Now, the fact that, under these circumstances, proves that nothing was done, is proof equally cogent and irrefragable that nothing in the estimation of congress was necessary to be done.—Congress some time since so deliberated on our affairs with England, the sequel of its deliberation was inaction, and the inference from this inaction undoubtedly is, that in the opinion of congress and of the president, it was unnecessary to adopt in relation to England, measures in addition to those which at that time existed.
We will now turn to dates and facts in corroboration of the deduction already drawn from principle and practice.
On the 7th of September, Mr. Monroe, agreeably to his instructions, addressed a note to Mr. Canning, demanding atonement for the attack on the Chesapeake, and coupling that demand with another for a prompt adjustment of the other differences.
Atonement for the assault on the Chesapeake, it was explicitly said in the note, would not be accepted unless accompanied with a satisfactory adjustment of the other difference.
About the 10th of October, nearly one month after the date of Mr. Monroe's note, Mr. Canning addressed to our distinguished minister an answer, in which the right to search neutral armed ships, and the conduct of admiral Berkeley in the affair of the Chesapeake were expressly disavowed—satisfactory reparation for the assault offered—regrets expressly that, owing to its being coupled in Mr. Monroe's instructions with the other differences, it could not be accepted—a direct and firm assertion made that at every hazard the right to search neutral merchant ships for British sailors would be maintained, but that to evince how sincerely disposed the cabinet of England was to preserve the customary relations of amity with the United States, a minister extraordinary would be sent to Washington, to tender to our government a suitable atonement for the wrong done to our sovereignty in the case of the Chesapeake, and to endeavour to arrange the other differences to the mutual satisfaction of both nations. These two notes, I understand, were all that passed between our ministers and the British cabinet.
On the 16th of October, the king's well known proclamation was published in the London Gazette.
Mr. Monroe's dispatches to our executive were dated October 10: it is therefore probable that they contained the substance of the proclamation, which had no doubt been before the cabinet of England some ten or fourteen days previous to its publication.
The dispatches of Mr. Monroe, dated October 10, are all that our executive has, it is understood, to this moment received; those brought by Mr. Monroe himself being but transcripts of them.
Whether the substance of the king's proclamation was or was not included in the dispatches, is very immaterial, since London papers containing the proclamation itself were received by the Leopard, the vessel in which the dispatches arrived at this port.
On the 5th of December the president received the dispatches of Mr. Monroe. On the 6th a cabinet council was convened and sat the whole day. On the 7th a confidential message was sent by the president to congress, inclosing the dispatches.—During the whole of the 7th and greater part of the 8th of December, congress deliberated upon the message and the dispatches with closed doors.
Here then all the correspondence between Mr. Monroe and the British cabinet, as well as the king's proclamation, was before congress, and debated for two days. And what was the consequence? A non-intercourse act? No. An embargo? No; and therefore neither with regard to England, in the estimation of congress was necessary. To explain some ambiguities in the non-importation act was deemed sufficient; they were accordingly explained, and with the explanation the executive and congress rested, awaiting the arrival of Mr. Rose.
On the 12th of December the United States' schooner Revenge , which had been at Cherbourg from October 16 to November 14, arrived at this port with dispatches from gen. Armstrong, our minister at Paris. Dr. Bullus, surgeon of the Revenge , left this city on the 13th of December for Washington, where he arrived on the 16th. On the 18th the president sent his confidential message, recommending an embargo, to congress, accompanied with Napoleon's explanation of the decree of Nov. 21, and the letters of Messrs. Champagny and Armstrong, as the ground of recommendation. These documents and others from gen. Armstrong, if others were received, are the cause of the embargo.
But, as will be hereafter perceived, the imperial construction of the decree of Nov. 21, although the cause publickly assigned, is sufficient to account for a measure at once so wise and energetic. We must advert to something which we are not permitted to see, for the real cause; I mean the letters of Messrs. Armstrong and Champagny which we may be assured contain matter of great pith and moment, and which are, I believe, the sole cause of the embargo.
The president says in his confidential message—"I ask a return of the letters of Messrs. Armstrong and Champagny which it would be improper to make publick."
From the United States' Gazette.
The following interesting extract of a letter, communicated for publication in this Gazette is known to the editor to be genuine, and the fact stated may be relied upon.
Extract of a letter from a member of Congress to his friend in the country, dated
WASHINGTON, Dec. 23. You have doubtless received information before this time that congress have passed a law laying an embargo. The question was taken in the house of representatives, at 11 o'clock, Monday night, and carried by a large majority—Ayes 82, noes 44.
Probably no question that has been agitated since the establishment of the present government, has excited more sensibility. The debate, especially upon the last day, was uncommonly animated and interesting. The friends of the measure had, it is supposed, agreed between Saturday evening and Monday morning to say nothing but take a silent vote, except a few observations by way of explanation, nothing was said by the friends of the bill, during a session of twelve hours on Monday. The time was taken up by its opponents. The measure is adopted in pursuance of a recommendation from the president, professedly given in consequence of recent communications from Mr. Armstrong, our minister at Paris. Mr. A. has given information that Buonaparte is determined to enforce his decree against neutral commerce without any exception in our favour. The letter of Armstrong, however, was not communicated to us, though repeatedly called for, and though different gentlemen expressed a strong jealousy that there was something in that letter besides notice of Buonaparte's determination to enforce his decree. Nicholas of Virginia, upon being pressed, said an embargo would be a powerful means to bring Great Britain and France to terms. Smilie said that France was contending for the rights of neutrals and that we ought to assist her in securing the freedom of the seas. These two gentlemen are supposed to know more about executive secrets than most others. Notwithstanding an attempt was studiously made to disguise the real object, the opponents suspected that Great Britain
was the only power aimed at. You have seen in the papers that Buonaparte has said, "there shall be no longer any neutrals." "neutral ports shall be shut against British commerce." What jealousy we have not and cannot obtain. Is it not probable that an intimation has been received through Armstrong, or in some other way, that our ports must be shut against the British? Or is it not the plan for us to make common cause with the august emperor, whose sympathies and ours are the same.
When the measure was first suggested in the house, Mr. Randolph approved it; but when he perceived the motive, the object, and the probable consequences of the measure, he instantly and magnanimously retracted his first opinion and opposed the bill as calculated to seal the death warrant of our liberties. His last speech, delivered about 10 o'clock Monday night, and the last that was delivered on the subject, was one of the most solemn, dignified, and impressive speeches which I ever heard. But such was the predetermination, such the inflexible obstinacy of the majority, that argument and reason were useless.
An embargo was deprecated as in all probability, it would lead to immediate war with Great Britain; that it was idle to suppose she would not perceive the design, notwithstanding the flimsy veil thrown over it. It was admitted that if the melancholy crisis had arrived in which war was inevitable, such a measure might be proper. But it was really hoped that the day of conciliation had not passed; that it was extremely to be regretted that any obstacle should be thrown in the way to a negotiation with the envoy daily expected here. I hope, sir, that we may be disappointed in our expectations; but the prospect is gloomy.
CONGRESS.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Monday, Dec. 28.
Mr. Randolph said he perceived that the supplement (secret) journal laid upon their table this morning, was, in one particular incorrect, and for aught he knew might be so in others. The journal stated the resolution moved by Mr. R. respecting an embargo as having been postponed previous to the receipt of a message from the senate, accompanying the law passed by that body on this subject. Now it must be recollected by every member of the house and particularly by his worthy friend from N. C. who made the motion for its postponement, that while the resolution offered by him (Mr. R.) was under discussion, a message was received from the senate, informing the house that they had passed a bill to a certain effect and upon taking up the message, his friend from N. C. made a motion for postponement of the resolution under consideration; to which motion there was no opposition. From the journal it would appear that the message from the senate was not received till after the postponement of the resolution. Mr. R. now moved such an amendment as the case required, and which would make the journal in this case what it ought always to be, a correct transcript of proceedings as they actually happened; for he had observed that the proceedings of the house were often forced from their natural course, the clerks supposing themselves required to pursue a certain established form, rather than a detail of facts as they actually occurred. Motion agreed to.
Mr. Gardenier said it would be recollected, that while in secret session he had moved a resolution calling upon the President of the United States for certain papers, which he perceived was not entered on the journals; he therefore moved the following resolution, which was adopted:
"Resolved, That the supplemental journals of the proceedings of this house be amended by inserting, in the fourth page the following, after Monday, December 24, 1806."
A motion was made by Mr. Gardenier and seconded, that the house do come to the following resolution:
"Resolved, That the President of the United States be requested to lay before this house copies of all such communications, letters and papers, as may have been received from the American minister at Paris in relation to the Imperial decree of the 21st November, 1806, and particularly such communications or letters as he may have received from our said minister at the time of receiving the papers which were laid before this house on Friday last."
And the Speaker having put the question, whether the house would now consider the said resolution, it was decided in the negative."
Gazette Marine Memoranda.
ARRIVED.
Sloop Venus , Boush, 50 hours from New York. The sch'r Norfolk , Seaward, of this port, was at Curraoza the 10th December.
The brig Josephine , of and from this port has arrived at Antigua.
BY JAMES TAYLOR, Jun.
At his Office, on Tuesday the 12th instant,
A quantity of DRY GOODS,
Consisting of Velvets, Co ds, Dimities, Buttons, &c— Terms, Cash for all sums under 100 dollars; above 100 dollars at 60 days, with approved endorsers. January 8. 2
On Saturday next, the 9th instant, at XII o'Clock, will be Rented to the Highest Bidder, for one or more years,
The WARE-HOUSE on Campbell's
wharf, lately occupied by Mr. B. Nottingham. Also, will be Sold on the wharf for Cash,
10 hhds. prime retailing Molasses. S. MARKS, Jun. January 6. 2
For SALE,
45,000 wt. good COFFEE in bags, 94 puncheons old St. Kitts RUM
MOSES MYERS. January 8. 11
NOTICE.
All persons having claims against the Estate of JOHN ARMSTRONG, Sen. deceased, are requested to bring them in properly attested; and all those indebted are desired to make immediate payment.
REBECCA ARMSTRONG, Adm'r. Norfolk County, January 8. 31

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, containing besides a large number of other good prizes,
 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, to whom the managers have obligated themselves to commence the drawing in the City of Baltimore, on THURSDAY, the 31st day of December next, and to draw 500 tickets per day.
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, at G. & R. WAITE'S truly fortunate Lottery Office, corner of Market-street and Charles-street, Baltimore.
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, have been a sufficient inducement for the subscribers to come to the city of Baltimore, for the express purpose of facilitating the sale of the Tickets.
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 Office, in Maiden Lane, New-York.
N. B. Distant adventurers accompanying their orders with Bank Notes of any description on, to either of Waite's Offices in Baltimore or New-York, may have Tickets and Shares forwarded to any amount with the utmost punctuality, and the earliest advice sent them of their success. All prizes sold by G. & R. Waite will be paid by them. A list of all prizes drawn will be sent to the Printer of this Paper, for the inspection of adventurers.
October 14.
3m
Now landing from the schooner Prudence Mary , from New-York.
17 hhds. first quality SUGARS,
 54 barrels prime Pork, city inspection,  70 boxes Mould Candles; 5 hhds. double refined Sugar,  5 pipes Brandy; 25 reams Writing Paper,  2 trunks fine and coarse French Lace, which will be sold at a low rate for Cash. Apply at No. 1, Commerce-street to William Hull, Jun. 
October 16.
tf
Just got to Hand.
22 chests Hyson TEA, will be sold low for cash.
George Wilson.
Nov. 18.
tf
For SALE, or will be bartered for Staves, Corn, or Flour.
5000 bushels Liverpool SALT, loose
 and in sacks,  1 ton Shot, assorted; 2 ton German Steel. 
James Young.
November 13.
tf
For SALE, by the Subscriber,
34 hogsheads WHISKEY,
 50 crates Earthenware; 10 casks Glass do.  65 boxes 8 by 10, 37 do. by 12 Window Glass,  16 gross Wine Bottles; 18 boxes Castle Soap,  1 hogshead and 5 barrels Philadelphia Loaf Sugar,  10 hds. Petersburg, 2 do. Richmond, and 4 do. York River Tobacco; 15 bales Cotton,  38 whole and 9 half tiers Rice. 
A. Maclure.
November 13.
tf
Now landing from on board the schooner Mohawk , Roger Quarles, master, from Leghorn,
120 hogsheads Bordolease CLARET,
 96 cases Roll Brimstone,  100 boxes Castle Marbled Soap, 50 tin boxes Saffron,  5 cases Florence Silks of all colours, a great many black,  2 hhds. shelled Almonds,  100 half chests Lucca Oil, of 30 flasks,  100 boxes Lucca Oil, 12 bottles each,  3 cases Chip Hats. 
William Pennock.
October 12.
tf
For SALE,
2 elegant Bay Horses, a complete match,
 2 do. grey do. do. do.  1 remarkable fine bay, and one very excellent grey Horse—  For which, Notes of the Bank of Newbern and Cape-Fear, or Proc. Money will be taken in payment—Apply at the Office of the Publick Ledger. Sept. 25. tf
A. MCKINLEY,
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; best standing blue upon Cotton, Linen, Carpets, and Blankets; Cleaned Straw and Chip Hats dyed, dressed, &c. &c.—All commands will be thankfully received, executed on the short notice and on the lowest terms. November 30. tf
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 hhds. and 6 bbls. Rye Whiskey,  4 barrels Apple Brandy, 1 do. Peach do. 10 bags Coffee,  Imperial, Hyson, Young Hyson, and Souchong Teas,  Pepper, Pimento, and Nutmegs,  Madeira, Sherry, and Port Wines,  London and Philadelphia Porter, English Cheese,  Bar Iron and Castings, Nail and Spike Rods,  German Steel, Powder and Shot, Tar, Pitch & Turpentine,  Paints and Oil, black and bright Varnish,  Canvas and Cordage, Nails and Spikes. 
Also just received,
 20 boxes Lemons, 12 half bbls. Beef Tongues,  20 kegs Tongues and Sounds, 40 kegs and 2 bbls. Salmon,  5 bbls. Mackerel, 15 cases Sallad Oil, 1 cask Currants,  10 boxes Olives, Capers and Anchovies,  6 dozen bottles Cayenne Pepper, 3 do. do. Pickled Peppers,  30 boxes Soap, 20 boxes Candles,  50 barrels Alexandria superfine and fine Flour. 
John D. Haldane.
July 31.
tf
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. And a convenient two story DWELLING HOUSE, with a fine extensive garden, in the Fields near Smith's Point, at present occupied by Mr. Stratton, possession of which may be had the 1st of January—Application to be made to Wm. Plume & Co.
Nov. 18.
tf
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 now 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 workmanship, of Silk & Tabby Velvet; Morocco Boots, Bootees, and Walking Shoes, to tie and not to tie, with cork soles and without, &c. For gentlemen, Boile; 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 Bootees, different colours, sized from 3 to 1, leather Pumps, Shoes and Bootees; 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.
November 27.
tf
GERMAN LINENS, &c.
 16 bales coarse Linen,  4 do. Ruffia Sheeting,  3 boxes German Rolls,  2 do. Rouans Sheeting,  1 do. fine Flanders do.  3 do. Piattilas,  1 do. fine Dowlas,  2 do. Table Cloth,  1 do. common Shirt Linen,  1 do. extra fine do.  1 do. Bed Tick 2 yards wide,  450 pieces Paper Hangings,  80 boxes Window Glass,  100 do. Short Pipes,  120 do. Spanish Segars,  from 8 to 20 dolis. per box,  300 doz. empty Bottles,  200 wt. nealed bottling Wire,  800 do. Glue,  11,000 best Coffee bags,  4,500 cheap Gunny Bags,  5 boxes Tumblers, Decanters, &c. 
Also,
 6 elegant Terrestrial Globes,  3 pair large Looking Glasses, in gilt frames, of the first elegance,  Elegant marble Statues, Urns and Vases,  Liquor Cafes, Oil Cloth, Water and Waffle Irons,  Coffee Mills and Toasters, Velvet Ribbons,  Fine Thread Stockings, Elegant Cutlery,  An invoice of Watches, Watch Crystals and Beads,  A large invoice of Lace, Jewellery and Dice, Elegant Chessmen, Flageolets and Clarinets, Violins, Bows, and Fifes, Flutes with four and six keys, do. patent lined,  Ladies' Dressing Boxes, Toilet Looking Glasses, Shaving Cafes, Elegant Writing Desks, Scarlet Plush for Saddles, Seine and Sewing Twine. 
For Sale by Niemeyer & Von Kapff.
September 11.
tf
At Private Sale,
By S. MARKS, Jun.
Corner of Commerce and Water-street,
10 hhds. Antigua, 12 do. N. E. 50
barrels do. RUM,
 30 hhds. and 20 barrels Sugar; 10 pipes Country Gin,  8 pipes Cognac Brandy; 150 boxes Mould Candles,  6 boxes Spermaceti Candles; 4 bales striped Blankets,  3 bales Blue Duffils; 1 do. fine Cloths; 2 do. blue Plains,  2 do. Rugs; 1 do. Check Shirts,  34 do. Ticklenburgs and Oznaburgs; 2 do. Heffians,  1 trunk Madras Handkerchiefs. 
October 24.
tf
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,  Evans'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. tf
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 Cords, 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 Boots, and dress Shoes and Pumps; superior rich gold Epaulletes; lace and silver Fringe; plain, tamboured, and Leno Muslin for dressies; Calicoes, Chambrays, and Ginghams; rose and striped Blankets; Kendal Cottons; strong white Plains; mixed Fearnoughts; Flannels; Manchester Cords; blue and drab Plains; Dimities and Marseilles; 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. September 23. tf
For RENT,
That commodious Dwelling-House, adjoining the Subscriber's, at present occupied by Mr. James Dykes;—also a convenient Dwelling-House near the Bridge, adjoining Mrs. Archer's, at present occupied by Mr. Nicholson;—also that pleasant retired House on Brewer-street, occupied by Stephen Harris; and some Ware-Houses on my wharf, with or without the wharf. For further particulars apply to James Tucker. October 12. tf
5 cases only of superior PIGEON-EYE CHAMPAIGN.
Apply to the Editor of this Paper.
Dec. 16.
tf
WOOD & HASTINGS,
No. 76, Main-Street,
Have just received an additional supply of Staple and Fancy 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; 2 trunks Cambric Muslins; 2 cases Linens; 2 bales Cotton Checks; 1 do. Gilla Handkerchiefs; 5 do. India Cottons, assorted, some very fine for Shirtings; a variety of Woollens. 
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. tf
Baltimore Baker's FLOUR,
of superior quality, for family use, for sale by T. & W. A. Armistead, Nov. 18. tf Campbell's wharf.
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,  Teas—Imperial, Hyson, and Young Hyson—Atso, 
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.
Bread—Pilot, Navy, and Ship, of the first quality—Families may be supplied with small quantities of Pilot Bread, of a superior quality.
Cordage of any size or description for negotiable notes or West-India produce.
Any orders for the above articles, will be complied with at the shortest notice.
Cary Selden.
Nov. 23.
tf
Norfolk Drawbridge Company.
An annual meeting of the Stockholders in the Norfolk Drawbridge Company, will be held at the Exchange Coffee-House on Monday the 11th of next month, at 10 o'clock.
William Cammack, Treasurer.
December 14.
tdm
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. tf
For SALE,
 75 punch. choice Antigua RUM,  30 do. Grenada do.  600 bushels CORN,  80,000 drawn White and Red Oak STAVES,  60 barrels Pork. 
George Wilson.
November 4.
tf
For SALE,
 50,000 white oak hogshead draw Staves  50,000 red do.  30,000 rough do.  20,000 Cypress Pales  2,000 Cedar and Chinquepin Posts  50,000 building Shingles. 
Proby, Harmanson & Co.
March 2.
tf
For SALE,
Imported in the Galliot Fortune , captain Norton, from Tenerife,
100 pipes and 90 hhds. L. P. Tene-
riffe WINE,
of superior quality. Apply to Phinehas Dana. September 28. tf
Coarse Liverpool SALT,
For Sale on board the ship Courtesy , capt. Bryant, lying at my wharf. Apply to William Pennock. Who has on hand,
Liverpool Blown and Cadiz SALT.
September 16. tf
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. tf
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, Admr'x. December 9. tf
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. tf
For SALE,
4000 bushels Ground Allum SALT,
And a few well assorted crates of EARTHENWARE. George Murray & Co. December 7. tf
Leather, Cordage, and Loaf Sugar.
The subscriber will hereafter expose for Sale at his Ware-house 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 Maraden's and Rothery's wharves. Feb