Daily National Intelligencer

FROM THE BALTIMORE PATRIOT.

Calculated for the Meridian of Washington.]

DIALOGUE

Between two Citizens.

1st Cit. Good morning, sir--What's the news?

2d Cit. Nothing of consequence--Do you learn any of the particulars of the destruction of Havre-de-Grace?

1st Cit. No--none of the particulars--though it is now reduced to a certainty, that every house in the place was more or less injured.

2d Cit. Yes! so I hear--We shall have a visit next.

1st Cit. Pshaw! you dont think so--they would never dare to hazard a landing here--and our fort will afford a sufficient defence against any vessels that can be brought against us.

2d Cit. It is that very mode of reasoning, my friend, which may prove our destruction. We are too confident in numbers; and place too much reliance on inanimate things. The fort, to be sure, if properly manned, will avail much--but can they effect a landing in no other way than by a direct passage of the fort? And are we sure, that our very numbers would not prove detrimental, from the confusion that would inevitably ensue in the city, in the present state of things? Has every individual arms in his house? Does every man know where to repair? Is every man drilled, and under a proper officer? And are preparations made for the security of the women and children?

1st Cit. Your questions have weight--but, with their present force to imagine them bent on such a project, is to be as ridiculous, as they would appear in the attempt.

2d Cit. I agree with you, that with their present force, no attempt may be made: but the probability that they will be strengthened should open every man's eyes to the danger, and induce the proper authorities to look about them.--Good day.