The National Intelligencer And Washington Advertiser

WASHINGTON CITY,
FRIDAY, March 23.

Millions for Defence, but not a Cent for tribute.

It has been often said that actions speak louder than words. Often as this remark has been made, we repeat it; and while we recall the attention of the nation to past events, when "millions for defence, but not a cent for tribute," rang through the land, we call upon them to notice, and duly to estimate, the measures of the present "weak and pusillanimous administration!" Accident has thrown one of our frigates and three hundred of our citizens into the power of the pirates of the Mediterranean. Information of this misfortune was received at the seat of government on Tuesday last, and yesterday a bill passed the House of Representatives appropriating a million, authorizing the President to engage two vessels of 16 guns each, and as many gun boats as he may think necessary, to defend the interests and to sustain the honor of the nation. This measure, which ought to shame forever the calumny that charges republican governments with a want of vigor and promptness, passed the House by unanimous vote.

It is thus that the present administration evinces its patriotism, and its energy; not by vain vaunting of prowess; but by actions, which will show the world that while the wish of the American nation is peace, she will not hesitate for a moment, to make that power feel the vengeance of her arms that dares, in violation of justice, to invade her rights.

The Governor of South-Carolina, in consequence of a communication received from the President of the United States, has convoked the Legislature of that state on the 10th day of May next.