Alexandria Gazette

[COMMUNICATED.]

The gentleman who last addressed the meeting in favor of the subscription, referring to the Southern boundary of the town, and the fact that the proposed extension was without its limits, stated that his friend, Mr. M. had, without consultation with him, anticipated the objection upon this point, by a resolution or some action upon it. The impression made upon my mind, and upon the minds of others with whom I conversed, was, that such action had been taken by the gentleman referred to as would obviate this objection; particularly, as the speaker referred to the willingness of a proprietor to be included within the city limits and become liable to city taxation, as he (or his property) enjoyed the benefits of municipal government, light, water, &c.

Upon inquiring of Mr. M, as to what action was alluded to by the speaker, he referred me to a resolution offered by him some weeks ago, a copy of which is as follows:

"Ordered, that the Attorney of the Corporation communicate to the City Council what were the corporate limits of Alexandria previous to its cession to the General Government, and whether the present limits of the City are what they then were; and further, what remedy, if any, is necessary in the premises."

Now, what does this resolution amount to? Simply an inquiry as to corporate limits before the cession to Congress.

This might lead, and, I understand, was intended to lead, to future action, if the answer of the Attorney presented reasonable grounds so to hope for success in such action.

That answer has been prepared and I understand leaves no room to hope for "any remedy," legally, in the premises.

As I have urged very openly, as an objection to the independent line, as it is called, that the whole line of road, including depot, work shops, &c, will be beyond the city limits, and free from the burden of taxation imposed upon us, for its construction, I feel desirous that others as well as myself should fully understand, that no action has been had which will remedy this state of things. That none can be taken which shall effect it till an act of Assembly shall be passed authorizing this territory to be added to the city, and subjecting it to the power of taxation by the Councils.

The question is, will the County of Fairfax submit to such an abridgment of her territory and such loss of revenue as will occur, especially if a new town is to be built up within her present borders? Will other proprietors of lands agree that they shall be brought under our taxable authority? I have no hope of either, and think it would at least be wise before we appropriate $200,000 to build up this section into wealth and importance, that we should make sure of the power to make the proprietors pay their fair share of the cost incurred for that purpose.

Lock your stable door before, not, after the steed is stolen.

R.H. M.