the hearsay of any indisidual. Too n1lu.ch
the hearsav of any indipiduai. Too much scrutiny cannot be observed, on such oo- casions, even when matter of this descrip- tion gains admission under the sanction of responsible name. Although it is our birthright to speak and write freely, our sentiments of measures, and of those who bear rule men in office, being our ser wants, and as such, may properly be com mented on; yet that system of detraction, and bare faced scandal. which may, with out wide departure from truth, be called characteristic trait in the manners of many of our leading men, we sincerely de- precate, and even witness 1t with the great est adherence. Libel on private reputa- tien IS disgusting excrescence upon the body of political freedom, and has recently grown to an extent so dangerous to indi- yiduals, and so disgraceful to the press at large, that with some men 1t almost affords q plausible pretext for curtailing the liber- ty of that organ the pure, legal and un- trammeled exercise of which, Is the proud- est and surest guardian of our freedom. The present lax, unrestrained, and vicious exuberance Of the press, stamps our nation abroad, as the very focus of libel, contume- ly and obloquy, in all their notifications. No reputation, no character, public or pri- vate, neither the living nor the dead, can escape from its baleful influence and lieen- tiousness-

 Sustaining, Sir, as for short period, you will necessarily be obliged, the combined functions of the editorial department, and the cares and fatigues attendant on labor CT, your paper will not be expected to con- tain so great share of original matter, as might otherwise be furnished. It is presum- ed however, that the assistance you will re- cieye from literary gentlemen of this town and the vicinity, will render that depart ment highly respectable; and were 1t our fortune to occupy your station, we would respectfully invite the literati occasionally to enrich our columns with the productions of their leisure moments.

 We believe the Advocate Is intended to be as large as any paper published on the western waters; and in its mechanical character, it IS presffmed, will be second to none in the west. On this subject, how ever. few numbers will afford other than speculative evidence; and, although your years will entitle yen to the claim Of indul- gence, yet ardent solicitations for patro- mage cannot he unseemly.

 Feeling assured, that you will ask no- thing, which, from your individual exer- iion, you do not appear to Oish to MERIT, we believe that an indulgent public will be proud to see you honora bly sustained.

 SfTRSCRIRER..