iVashington ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^H N^^^^^yP'^ .^1 ^? ^^^^^^^B "-=iW--V-^^-^ >^"®** IIX>1^ ]£2®j*) j-T^7)^y2> :53^JB> J>^X> Ji!!®^ :^yy^ T^^JE) T30X> - ~r^pj) ':^» ^39£sOl3I^ '-S ""jfc' > i>~li^ ~^^yf^^^^^>u^ '"^^ 1^3**"^-^—^ "2^ ■=^S"^^^^ ^ -=^K'='^--:=^-"=^ '^TJSf- ■"^v" V'^^^ - ^^ """^ "5) ~^ °^^ ~^ "-=^^r. ^^^■'^"'^^L. ^^ifc ^:^¥^ ■ -^ ^ :^::>l>vz> ^ ^-9£^S^ - ^ -% i^^s^^is ^ ^i^^S. i> :>>:>> r> -:3*'.,^ j| LIBRARY OF COIGRESS. I UNITED STATES OP AMBRIOA.fi AS ORATION, D K L I V K R IC D O .^ rilE CENTENJN'IAL ANNIVERSARl BIRTH OF WASHINGTON. FEBRUARY 22, 1832. BY JOHN PIT M A N. PROVIDE N ( ' E : W E E D K N AND K N O W I, E ?, P R I .\ T I! B S . MDccrxxxn Pkovidende, February 22d, 18S2. Hon. John Pitman, Sir — The Committee of Arrangements for the Celebration of the centennial birth-day of Washington, beg leave to express their sincere obligations to you, for the interesting and eloquent Oration pronounced by you this day, on that occasion. They believe they express the wish of the numerous audience who listened to it, as well as the wish of the citizens generally, in informing you of their own unanimous desire that it should be printed, and they request the favor, therefore, of a copy for that purpose. Respectfully, Your obliged and obedient servants, JOSHUA MAURAN, ALLEN O. PFCK, N VVM. S. PATTEN, SAMUEL JACOBS, / JOSIAH WHITAKER, SAMUKL AMES, \ Cnmr^.iifi. THOS. F. CARPENTER, JOHN W. ABOKN, / ^-amrcuer. JAIKKS G. ANTHONV, JOHN MILLER, Ik, MARTIN STODDARD, C. L. DWIGHT, J Providence, February 23d 1832. (tKNTLEMEN, I regret that the time afforded me, did not enable me to make the Oration which I pronounced at your request, on the 22d instant, more worthy of the occasion and your acceptance. That it was well received, is chiefly to be attributed to its most interesting subject. In the hope, notwithstanding its defects, that it may revive some of those recollections which awaken our gratitude and increase our patriotism, I submit it to your disposal. With many thanks for the kind expressions of your approbation, I am, very respectfully, Your obedient servant, To JOHN PITMAN. JOSHUA MAURAN, ALLEN O. PECK, WM. S. PATTEN, SAMUEL JACOBS, JOSIAH WHITAKER, SAMUEL AMES, THOS. F. CARPENTER, JOHN W. ABORN, JAMES G. ANTHONV, JOHN MILLER, MARTIN STODDARD, G. L. DWIGHT. Committee of Arrangements. ORATION. Fellow Citizens — Could I catch an inspiration from my theme, you might have no cause to regret my consent to appear before you on this interesting occasion. Deeply impressed with the magnitude of the topics connected with this day, I fear I may have subjected myself to the imputation of vanity, in seeking to avoid the more serious reproach of being supposed unwilling to devote myself to the com- memoration of him, to whom we owe so large a debt ai gratitude. We come not here for * man worship,' — the danger in our country is, not that this species of homage will be paid to tiie DEAD, but to the living, — but we have assembled, in the temple of God, to renew our thanlvs to him for hav- ing bestowed such a blessing on our country as was, 3.nd is, our departed Washington. We come to purify our hearts by the contemplation of such a bright example of patriotism, to benefit ourselves and our children by calling to mind what he suflered and achieved for us, and while we view his virtues and actions, in the hope, that if we may not aspire to the height of his renown, we may be encouraged to an humble imitation of his integrity, his honor, his candor, his disinterestcMluess, and his ardent devotion to the best ijiterests of his country. On this centennial birth day of Washington, a variety of topics press upon the mind. His history is associated with the rise, and progress, and destiny of a nation. R ]* is the history of freedom contending with oppression ; of virtue with corruption ; of deeds of noble daring ; of he- roic fortitude ; of incorruptible integrity ; of patriotism un- changed by evil or by good report, the same in the darkest days of disaster and discouragement and the brightest hours of victory and triumph. It is the history not only of a hero, but of a statesman, who led his country through the perils of war to independence and peace ; and who presided in her councils for the formation of a happy Con- stitution, and over the Government instituted under it, un- til it had become established in the judgment and affec- tions of the people, and proved by experience to be admi- rably adapted to perpetuate our civil liberty and happiness. If we love to linger on those pages of history which re- count the virtues of Sages and Patriots, of whatever age or country; if, tired of the recital of folly and crime, they are as refreshing to our souls as is the green island amid the sands of the desart to the thirsty and way-worn travel- ler, or ' the shadow of a great rock in a weary land,' how much must those pages delight us which portray the wis- dom, virtue, and heroism of him whose fame is our coun- try's, and who is as much entitled to our love, as our admiration ! The name of Washington is not so much illumined by, as it illuminates the page of history. He has passed be- yond the mists, and shadows, and vanities of this life, be- yond the passions and prejudices which so often obscure living v/orth, and now stands, in bold relief, in all the ra- diance and majesty of truth and virtue. ' The love of glory, says a celebrated v/dtcr, may give birth to actions which are both splendid and useful. At a distance, they strike the eye with uncommon ]>rightness, but on a nearer and stricter view, their lustre is often tar- nished. They are found to want that sacred and venera^- ble dignity v/hich characterizes true virtue. Little pas- sions and selfish interests entered into the motives of those who performed them. They were jealous of a competitor. They sought to humble a rival. They looked around for spectators to admire them. All is magnanimity, genero- sity, and courage, to public view. But the ignoble source whence these seeming virtues take their rise is hidden. — Without appears the hero, within is found the man of dust and clay. Consult such as have been intimately acquaint- ed with the followers of renown, and seldom or never will you find that they hold them in the so.me esteem with those who viewed them from afar. There is nothing ex- cept simplicity of intention, and purity of principle, that can stand the test of near approach and strict examina- tion.* How well Washington stood this test, let those answer who approached him the nearest and knev/ him the best ; these were those who loved and honored him the most. His actions were not prompted by the love of renown, though he was not insensible to that fame which accom- panies virtuous and heroic action. An ardent love of lib- erty and country, a disinterestedness which has scarcely a paj-allel, perfect integrity, undaunted courage tempered by prudence and strengthened by fortitude, these were the virtues which inspired those actions that gave liim * the .first place in the hearts of his countr3mien,' and present him to the world as a model, for those to imitate who desire the esteem and veneration of mankind. There IS a moral sublimity in such a character which rises far above tiie conquero]' of Idngdbms, or the mere hero of mili- tary renown. Where is tlie modern Conqueror of the- Alps and of Ita- ly ? Wliere the Hero of Austerlitz, of Jena, of Wagram, of Borodino — the destroyer of thrones and dynasties 1 Where the .great Captain cf the age 1 He proved recreant 8 to liberty. He sacnficed h.s country to his love of do- minioa and glory. . Peace courts his hand, but spreads her charms in vain; Think nothinggaiaed, he cries,, till nought remam; On Moscow's walls 'till Gallic standards fly, And all be mine beneath the Polar sky.' And Of him also may it be said, pursuing the verse of the great moraUst, < He left the name, at which the world grew pale, To point a moral or adorn a tale.' ^ faithful history of the life of Washington >s lus best panegyric. A brief sketch of some of the most prorninerjt 111 will impress yoa w.th those sentiments and fe 1- [rwhich are consecrated to this occasion, more than the ■"^S-ts%lonthe..dofFehruary^^ atltac! in Virginia, where his Great ^rand^ther had settCd, about seventy-five years before,-a le.pectablc emigrant from England. Hbnatri- -Ct the age of ten years he lost h.s fathei. Hi. patn mJnial estate not being large, »- ^^^ucation .^ -Jt- to En-lish branches, and his youth employed ui those ui luS^us pursuits which gave vigor to his constitu ion ndTc phned lus mind to those habits of busnress wluch . he found so useful, and for which he was so remarkable Z Zr life. h. the profession of a Surveyor, he enco.ni- :;:' the perils of the wiWerness, and a.,..^^ knowledge of the -1- of vacant.ands, w^^ c^^^^^^ wards to him a source of profit. At the "pj"^ teen, he was appointed one of the Adjutan s Gene.al o v'nia, at a rime, when, under the apprehensions of < F :nch nd Indian war, the miliUa were ^ be tmmed fo actualservice. At the age of twenty-oue, the Lieutenant 9 Governor of Virginia selected him to go on an important and dangerous mission to the commandant of the French forces on the Ohio, who was erecting forts on the territory claimed by Virginia. To perform this duty, he had to penetrate a wilderness a great portion of which was un- explored, and in many parts inhabited by hostile Indians, Fearless of those dangers, he cheerfully undertook this mission, and executed it with so much perseverance and judgment, that the public estimation of him was very much increased. In the year of his return from the Ohio, he was appointed Lieutenant Colonel of a regiment raised by Virginia, to oppose the encroachments of the French Commander; and in that year, 1754, being in command of a part of the Regiment, he performed his first militaiy exploit, in surprising and capturing a party of the French without the loss of a man. At the close of this year, he resigned his commission which he thought he could not. hold without dishonor, in consequence of the orders from the mother countr}^, for settling the rank of the King's of- ficers when serving with provincials. General Braddock duly appreciated his merit, and trie motives of his resignation, and, desirous of his services, invited him the next year to enter his family as a volmi- teer aid-de-camp, which invitation v/as readily accepted You all have heard of Braddock's defeat, and the con- duct of Washington on this occasion. His wonderful preservation can only be attributed to a superintending Providence, which had raised him up for those great pur- poses he afterwards accomplished. Soon after the action commenced, every other aid was killed or wounded, and on Washington devolved the duty of carrying the orders of the Commander-in-Chief, in presence of an enemy, whose keen marksnien killed or wounded every other of- ficer on horse-back; that he was the object of their deadly aim, the facts, that his coat was pierced with four balls. 10 and that two horses were killed under him, sufficiently at- test, yet he escaped unhurt! The coolness, self possess- ion and courage which he manifested amidst those dan- gers were admirable; he endeavored to rally the panic- stricken regular soldiers, but without effect, whilst the brave Virginians, whom he had disciplined, thus * deserted at their utmost need,' stood their ground, and, in the words of Washington, * behaved like men, and died like soldiers;' most of them being killed on the field of battle. The regular troops, after this defeat, having abandoned Virginia, she was obliged to defend herself, and appointed Washington, at the age of twenty-three, Commander-in- Chief of all her forces raised or to be raised ; he accepted this appointment, and upon him devolved the arduous, and, as it afterwards proved, most melancholy duty of de- fending an extensive frontier with inadequate means, from a triumphant savage foe, that involved men, women and infancy in indiscriminate massacre. In this command, Washington had a foretaste of some of those difficulties and trials which he afterwards encountered in the contest for hberty. In one of his letters to the Lieutenant Governor of Vir- ginia, after describing the situation of the frontier, and his inability to defend it without further assistance, the cause he had to lament the hour that gave him this commission, which, but for the distresses of the country, he would im- mediatelyfresign, he adds this most pathetic appeal : 'The supplicating tears of the women, and the moving petitions of the men melt me with such deadly sorrow, that I sol- emnly declare, if I know my own mind, I could offer my- self a willing sacrifice to the butchering enemy, provided that would contribute to the people's ease.' The evacuation, by the French, of Fort Du Quesne, which was inimediately occupied by the British, and called Fort Pitt, now Pittsburgh, and the removal of the French 11 from the Ohio, having relieved Virginia from the dangers of Indian war, Washington was enabled, in 1758, to resign, witiiout dishonor, a commission which had no miUtary charms, and nothing but his patriotism induced him to hold. We now come to that period, when the American peo- ple, having petitioned and remonstrated in vain, appealed to arms in defence of their liberties. Washington was a member from Virginia of the first Congress, and his mili- tary reputation, caused him to be placed on all committees which w^ere to provide the means of defence. When there was no longer any doubt that the contest which had em- ployed so many pens, must be decided by the sword. Con- gress, on the 14th of June, 1775, unanimously appointed Washington, General and Commander-in-Chief of the ar- my of the United Colonies. This appointment was an- nounced to him by the President, the next day, and by him accepted, as it was their unanimous desire, but while thanking them for the honor conferred upon him, he ' sol- emnly declared with the utmost sincerity, and called upon every gentleman to witness the declaration, lest some un- lucky event should happen unfavorable to his reputation, that he did not think himself equal to the command he was honored with.' Here let us pause a moment, and consider the dan- gers and responsibility of the office which Washington thus accepted. Let us carry ourselves back to those days and survey the parties who were about to contend in deadly warfare. On the one hand, we behold a people composing thirteen separate states, as yet in comparative infancy in population and resources; a divided people, without' an army, without a navy, without an adequate revenue or the means of creating one, without the requi- site arms or the munitions of war, and, in general, desti- tute of mihtary skill and experience ; a people scattered 12 along an extensive sea coast, and exposed to the depreda- tions of every invader. On the other hand, we behold a mighty nation, flushed with her recent victories over France and Spain, with a veteran army ready to do her will, with immense pecuni- ary resomces, and a navy which had wrested the trident from Neptune, and bade ' Britannia rule the waves.' Are these to be the competitors in mortal strife, the one for liberty, the other for empire? And can we doubt, judg- ing from human probability, which has the 'vantage- ground, or which must be vanquished] Look again, it is not the contest of a weak with a strong nation, in which the rules of civilized war are to be obsei*ved, and the van- quished might still hope for an honorable peace. A King seeks to subdue those whom he calls his rebel subiects,and those that escape death in the field, may expect, if defeat- ed, to expiate the crime of rebellion on the scaffold ; if from the latter fate those of humbler fortunes may be spar- ed, their leaders, and especially their military Comman- der-in-Chief cannot hope for clemency. Washington possessed a fortune, and, in his beloved Mount Vernon, en- joyed domestic happiness and those rural pleasures to which he was so much attached. What could tempt him to hazard all this upon the stormy wave of war and revo- lution, and to accept a pre-eminence so dangerous, that nothing but victory could prevent the confiscation of his fortune, or save him from an ignominious death 1 Such self-devotion at the call of his country manifested the pow- er of virtuous principle! These, these were times, when the question was. Liberty or death! When this illustrious man assimied this high respon- sibility, his compatriots, thus assembled, well knowing the dangers which surrounded him, 'solemnly and unani- mously declared, tliat they would maintain, assist and ad- here to him with their Hvcs and fortunes.' 13 vv a.iUingion repauea as soon as possible lo Cambridgej ;/^; Head Quarters of the American army. His answer the address of the Massachusetts Congress, on his ar- rival, manifested how ardently he was attached to the cause he had espoused. In exchanging,? said he, ' the enjoyments of domestic hfe for the duties of my present honoroJile but arduous station, I only emulate the viriue and public spirit of the whole province of Massachusetts, which, with a firmness and patriotism without example, has sacrificed all the comforts of social and political life, in support of the rights of mankind and the welfare of otir commpii country. My highestambitioji is to be the hap- py instrument of vijqidicating those lights, and to see iliis devoted province again restored to peace, liberty and safety.' Washington was now engaged in organizing the army which he found investing Boston, it was defective in al- most every thing but men; these he described es 'able bodied, active, zealous in the cause, and of unquestiona^ ble courage.' The army was nearly destitute of ammuni«- tion, ver}^ deficient in arms, their term of service would ex- pire in a few moiiths, and much difficulty was experience(i in procuring re-enlistments. In a letter to Congress he said : *It is not in the pages of history to furnish a case like ours. To maintain a post within musket shot of the, enemy for six months together, without aiTmiunition, and at the same time to disband one army and recruit another within that distance of twenty odd British regiments, is more than, probably, ever wh,s attempted. But if we suc- ceed as well in the latter, as we have hitherto done in tlie fermer, I shall ihmk it the most fortunate event in n.y hole life.' In Feburary. i7i6, nemiormeci Congres?, tiiai tu'-;/^ le then in his army, * near two thousand vmcn withoui ^-arms of any ^ort/ being nearly me^fourfh of hi?' anry 14 independent of militia. Such were the hiimble means by which he was expected to drive the British from Boston, and so spirited and judicious were his measures, that this was accompUshed in the following month. Washington then repaired with his army to New York, in the hope of preventing the British from getting pos- session of a city so important to their future operations. — His araiy was inferior to the enemy in point of numbers, and greatly inferior in miUtary equipment. This army was divided for the purpose of defending the various points around New York, while the enemy could choose, and bring his whole force to bear upon the point of attack. Here commenced a series of disasters to the American arms. The defeat at Brooklyn which destroyed for a time the confidence of the American army in themselves and their officers ; the retreat from Long Island; the evac- uation of NeAV York and York Island, except Fort Wash- ington ; the battle of White Plains, where the Americans manifested, indeed, some of their former spirit, and suffer- ed no disgrace. The loss of Fort Washington, and with it, many of the best troops in the American army ; the evacuation of Fort Lee, and the retreat of Washington across the Jerseys and beyond the Delaware ; his army reduced to less than three thousand men, badly armed, miserably clad, and nearly destitute of tents and blankets. *He found liimself,' says his eminent biographer, C. J. Marshall, 'at the head of this small band, dispirited by their losses and fatigues, retreating almost naked and barefooted, in the cold of November and December, before a numerous, well appointed and victorious amiy, through a desponding country, much more disposed to secure safe- ty by submission, than to seek it by a manly resistance.' To add to his discoui*agements, in a few months, the term of service of most of this little band would expire, and what prospect was there of obtaining enlistment? in a 15 cause that now seemed so hopeless ? Sir WilHam Howe was not able, for want of boats, to cross the Delaware, and take possession of Philadelphia ; but when the river should be frozen, as would shortly be the case, he could easily pass over, and complete the conquest of the middle States, which appeared so nearly accomphshed. The British General, waiting for this event, distributed his army in various places along the eastern side of the Delaware, and across the Jerseys, and went into winter quarters. It was in this dark hour, that the firmness of Washing- ton was so conspicuous. These were the days of adver- sity which try great men, who arouse all their energies to meet the occasion, while feebler minds sink in desponden- cy. To his anuy he exhibited the same resolution and courage as in better days. Having received some rein- forcements, he boldly resolved to cross in the night, and attack at the same time all the British posts on the Dela- ware. He led in person two thousand men to the at- tack of Trenton, and two other divisions were ordered to cross below to attack the other posts. The severity of the w^eather, and a storm of mingled snow, hail and rain, pre- vented the other detachments from crossing ; l^ut Wash- ington, though delayed in his passage by these causes, made good his laiiding, attacked and captured a thousand of the enemy, (five hundred having saved themselveis by flight,) took six field-pieces and a thousand stand of arms, with a loss of but two killed, and three or four wounded ! Finding himself unsupported by those divisions he had rodered to cross, he re-crossed the Delaware, with his prisoners and military stores. This brilliant achievement came like a thunderbolt, without any previous warning, upon the British General. An enemy he had considered vanquished, whom he had pursued and driven from post to post, and that owed their safety (o his present inability to cross the Delaware, had, to his utter astonishment, in the depth of winter, been suddenly inspired with a vigor, enterprise and courage, which threatened him with destruction. He recalled Lord Cornwallis from New York, from whence he was about to embPtrk for Europe, and found himself obliged to recommence active operations. Nor w|is the astonishmerit of the American people at this sudden alteration in the aspect of their affairs, less than that of the British General. A new spirit was in- fused into them, and confiding in the justice of their cause, and with renewed confidence in their Almighty Preserver and their Httle army, they w"ere stimulated to persevere in their struggle. The effect of this victory upon the American army was also most propitious. They had now the utmost con- fidence in their General, their courage was Vevived, and those who did not participate in this victory, were desirous' of an opportunity equally to distinguish themselves. — Washington having received further reinforcements w^as determined to avail himself of the spirit nou' pervading his troops, and though inferior to the enemy, attt;ni})t the recovery of the whole or the greater part of Ncav Jersey- After allowing a few days of repose to the troops who were employed in the enterprise against Trenton, he again crossed the Delaware on the 30th December, and took post at Trenton, The enemy was at Princeton, under Lord Cornwalhsj with a -superior force. At this critical juncture, the term of service of the troops fi-omNew Eng- land, would e?vpire on the next day. Washington exerted all his inlluence to induce them to remain during the pres- ent exigency, and mth jnuch difficulty, induced many of them to re-yengage for six Aveeks.'* On the first January," 1777j Washington expecting an attack^ ordered thirty-six *From the letter cf John llowland, Esq. the Present Town Treas- .urer of Providence, of ISovember 24, 1830, published in 1831, it ap- pears tbnt "h'-^ ^^--^rr. nf r. r, :,.„ o^.V-.. J^hr.A^ V.U.rwl f^ .-.„: ^. r,> . < r. ,. r., ,,,..,. _ 17 hundred men^ who hiy at Bordentowii and Ciosswicks, to join him in the night, and with this addition, his effective force did not exceed five thousand men. The next morn- ing, Cornw^alhs marched to attack Trenton, the van of his army reached there about four o'clock in the afternoon. — Washington retired behind a creek which runs through Trenton, the enemy attempted to cross, but finding the fords and bridge w^ell defended, haUed for the night.* ded by Colonel Christopher Lippitt, expired eighteen days from this time. This regiment which comprised more than one third of the brig- ade to which it was attached, ununimously agreed to serve one month longer. This brigade diistinguished itself in the defence of the bridge and fords at Trenton, January 2d, 1777 ; and, for its gallantry at Princeton, Mr. Howland says : — "The Commander-in-Chief took the commander of our brigade by the hand, after the action, expressing his high approbation of his conduct, and that of the troops he commanded, and wished him to communicate his thanks to his oliicers and inen."^ — This interesting letter of Mr. Howland was written to Mr. Cowell, Clerk of the District Court, who requested information respecting the services of Lippitt's regiment. Rhode Island had three regiments in this little army at this time, all attached to the same brigade. *The following extract from the letter of Mr. Howland, gives an in- teresting picture of V\ ashiugton at this eventful period. U'he Brigade to which Colonel Lippitt's reginient was attached, and to which Mr. Howland belonged, was ordered to cover a small party that had been attacked by the advance of the British. Having accomplished this, they retreated in good order, and Mr. Howland thus describes the crossing of the bridge: — "The bridge was narrow, and our platoons were in passing it crowded into a dense and solid mass, in the rear of which, the ene- my were making their best elTorts. The noble horse of Ceneral Wash- ington stood with his breast pressed close against the end of the west rail of the bridge, and the firm, composed, and majestic countenance of the General inspired confidence and assurance in a moment so impor- tant and critical. In this passage across the bridge, it was my fortune to be next the west rnil, and arriving at the end of the bridge rail, I pressed against the shoulder of the General's horse, and in contact with the boot of ihe General. The horse stood as firm as the rider, and seemed to understand that he was not to quit his post and station. — When I was about half way across the bridge, the General addressed himself to Colonel Hitchcock, the ooinniaiuier of the brigade, directing him to march his men to that field, and form them immediately, or instantly, or as quick as possible; which of the terniB he used, I am not certain; at the same time extending his arm and pointing to a little meadow, at a little distance, on the south side of the creek or river, and between the road and the Delaware. This order was promptly obeyed and then we advanced to the edge of the stream, facing the enemy, who soon found it prudent to fall back under cover of the houses. — W hat passed at the bridge while we were forming as directed, I of iS Washington was now in a most critical situation, the nexc morning he would be attacked by a very superior force, and his army, in all probalDihty, destroyed. His retreat over the Delaware was rendered nearly impracticable by the state of the ice. In this emergency, Iiis courage, ed- terprise, and military genius were again manifested. — Knowing that CornwaUis had left some of his troops at Princeton, and that his baggage and principal ma gazines were at Brunswiciv, under a weak guard, .Washington re- solved to abandon the Delaw'ars, to elude CornwaUis in the m'ght, attack the force at Princeton, and defeating them, march immediately upon Brunswick. This he be- lieved w^ould divert CornwaUis from Philadelphia, and en- courage his army and the country by acting offensively, and avoiding the appearance of a retreat. The plan thus boldly and happily conceived, was nearly executed.^- Without exciting any alarm., the American anu)^ moved off in the night, gained the rear of the British, and the next morning, the van of the Americans, composed prin- cipally of mihtia, led by General Mercer, met two Bqtish regiments on their march from Princeton. A sharp action commenced ; the militia soon gave Vvay ; General Mercer w^as mortally w^ounded, wMst attempting to rally his troops, and the van was entirely routed. In this emer- gency, Washington led in person the m.ain body to the attack, and exposed himself in the front of danger, to the hottest fire of the enem)^, so much w^as he impressed with \he absolute importance of victory at this crisis. Here lie course did not v.'itnf^^:^, but xmflerstcod that ns soon as our brigade lu'd p:is.;ed, the cannon \vl:ieli liud been drawn aside, to leave u» a passage, were again phused at thg^^^'^nd of the bridge;-" and discharged into the front of the enemy's coli'jiiin, which was advujicing to^vards it; at tha same tin:c sgiveral pieces placed at the rigiit and left of the bridge, with musketry atthe intervals, took them partly in flank'. Tlicy did i50t succeed in their attempt to cross the bridge, and although the creek was fordable between the bridge and the ^.^^i^^•■^•p, ih?.y .-"Ipcllru^cl s-.- tenipting a passage there, in the fnce of t' rioiis obstruction than tho water " again triurnplied. The British line was soon broken, more than one hundred killed, and nearly three hundred taken prisoners. Washington pressed IbrAvard to Piince-^ ton, and anotiier British regiment saved itself by a precipi- tate retreat to Bnuiswick. Lord CornAvallis, in the morn- ing, finding Washington had escaped hiin, penetrated his designs, and commenced a rapid march for Biunswiclv; — he. was close upon the rear of the American army before it left Princeton. The perils of Wn?bington were not yet ended, his army was neariy . : widi fatigue and want of sleep, poorly cia^d, and many of them bare- footed. In this state of exhaustion and suffering, they would, most probably, be overtaken by Cornwailis, before they could accomplish their designs upon Brunswick, and especially if they should tliere meet with opposition, W^asli- ington, therefore, prudently abandojied his designs upon the stores and baggage of the enenw, retired to the north to give his troops refreshment and repose, and Cornwailis passed on to Brunswick. Iha\ ipon the.< ampaign, as they eAiiiijiL ioe military uwa,^' eu tr -r-ujiylon, in the most favorable point of \dew. When we compare what he accomplished with the means he possessed, we are no less impressed with the wisdom and boldness of his de- signs, than with the skill, vigor, and judgment displayed m their executioiL. Th.e important, consequenciis also, of; the victories of Trenton, and Princeton, render them still more memorai)le ; the}'' saved Philadelphia for the wintar, recovered a great portion of New Jersey, and more tharv; all, they encouraged to renewed exertion those who began to despair of the Ai'tierican cause, and their 'effect upon the r.^;:ruiting service v/as so auspicious, that a muci* iarger army was raised by the States, for the ensuing campaign. 20 We have not time to recount the interesting events of the Revolutionary War, in which Washington distinguish- ed himself, as well by his enterprising courage, as by that prudence, which procured him the name of the American Fabius. He was not only our shield, but our sword, and his letters to Congress show what a host of difficulties he had to contend with, and that he was equally valuable in the Cabinet as in the field. At the peace, the situation of the army became a source of much interest, and some apprehension. The officers and soldiers were unpaid, and the officers had received no assurance that the commutation of half pay for a sum in gross, which had been held out to them by a resolution of Congress, in October, 1780, would be sanctioned by the States. In December, 1782, they petitioned Congress, and sent a deputation of officers to enforce their claims, but in March, 1783, when the news of peace arrived, but lit- tle progress had been made in their afitiirs, and they were informed by their committee, that they had not obtained what they had solicited. Tliey saw their country saved by their exertions, and as they supposed, unmindful of their sufferings and their services, and denying them not only gratitude, but justice. In this state of feeling, that celebrated address was cir- culated, which was so Avell calculated to turn their arms against their country. This was the moment in wliich an ambitious leader, with an army devoted to him, un- willing to retire to the calm pursuits of civil life, would have seized upon, to .triumph over tlie liberties of his country. But such unholy ambition had no cliarms for Washington ; he felt deeply for his beloved officers and soldiers, but he Vvished to save them from the passions of the moment ; to save them from lasting ignominy and self reproach; to save them for their countjy ; and he was 21 v^uccessful. His adckess to them, calraed tiieir passions',, revived their hopes, arid pointed out to them the path of xiuty and safety. In his letter to Congress, written imme- diately after this event, }ie eloquently enforces the claims of the arm}^ * If,' said he, ' this country should not, in the event, perform every thing which has been requested in the late memorial to Congress, then will my belief be- come vain, and the hope that has been excited void of foimdation. And if, as has been suggested, for the pur- pose of inflaming their passions, the officers of the army are to be the only sufferer-- ' volution ; if retiring Irom the field, they are to giu,, t,:.. ui poverty, wretched- ness and contempt ; if they are to wade through the vile mire of dependency, and owe the miserable remnant of that life to charity, which has hitherto been spent in hon- or, then shall I have learned what iiigratitude is : then shall I have realized a tale which Will embitter every mo- ment of my'future life.' * But I am under no such apprehensions ; a country rescued by their arms fi-om impending ruin, will nevei' leave unoaid the debt of s^ratitude/ These representations came with the more effect from hira who sought nothing for himself. When he accepted his commission, he gave notice to Congress, thai he would not receive any cimir^ei-i^f^tuyY) f(^r liis services. On the fourth of Der ok a most affec- tionate leave of his principal officers at New York, and on the same day set out for Annapolis, in Maryland, where Congress was in session, to resign his commission. On the 23d December, at a public audience, and un- der circumstances peculiarly impressive, V^gshington re- sisrned his commission into the hands of the. President of C-ongress. At the close of the speech delivered by him on ^ ■ Aom he said : — ■ f consider it as an indispensable 22 duty to close this last act of my official life, by commend- ing the interests of our dearest country to the protection of Almighty God, and those who have the superinten- dance of them, to his holy keeping.' * Having now finished the work assigned me, I retire from the gi'eat theatre of action, and bidding an affection- ate larewell to this august body, under whose orders I have so long acted, I here offer my commission, and take leave of all the employments of active life.' The answer of Congress to this address, delivered by their President, being a testimonial so valuable from the high source from whence it proceeded, is well worthy of a recital on this occasion. The President in addi'essing him, said : — ' The United States, in Congress assembled, receive with emotions too affecting for utterance, the sol- emn resignation of the authorities under which you have led their troops with success, through a perilous and a doubtful war. Called upon by your country to defend its invaded rights, you accepted the sacred charge, before it had formed alliances, and whilst it was without friends or a government to support you. You have conducted the great military contest with wisdom and fortitude, invaria- bly regarding the rights of the civil power, through all disasters and changes. You have by the love and confi- dence of your fellow citizens, enabled them to display their martial genius, and transmit their fame to posterity. You have persevered, until these United States, aided by a magnanimous king and nation, have been enabled, un- der a just Providence, to close the war in freedom, safety, and independence ; on which happy event, we sincerely join you in congratulations. ' Having defended the standard of liberty in this new world ; having taught a lesson useful to those who inflict Vliu] Io those wlio feel oppression, you retire from the 23 great theatre of action, with tlie blessings of your fellow citizens ; but the glory of your virtues will not terminate with your military command ; it will continue to animate remotest ages.' ' We feel with you our obligations to the araiy in gen- eral, and will particularly charge ourselves with the in- terests of those confidential ofiicers, who have attended your person to this affecting moment. * We join you in commending the interests of our dear- est country to the protection of Almighty God, beseecliing him to dispose the hearts and minds of its citizens, to im- prove the opportunities afforded them of becoming a happy and respectable nation. And for you, we address to him our earnest prayers, that a life so beloved, may be fostered with all his care, that your days may be happy as they have been illustrious ; and that he will fmally give you that reward which this world carmot give.' Thus terminated, in a manner every way suited to the dignity of the occasion, the last act of that memorable drama, which crowned our country w ith independence and Washington with imperishable renown. Washington now retired to those joys of domestic and rural life, which must have been doubly endeared to him by the reflection, that he hved in a land of independence and freedom. In this retirement from public cares, he was much employed in the improvement of agriculture, the importance of which he had so many proofs, by the wretched system of cultivation which prevailed at the south. His attention was also directed to the great sub- ject of internal improvement, with a view more firmly to unite the western country to the Atlantic states, by facil- itating the means of intercourse, and binding the union by the strong cement of interest. To collect information on this subject, he visited New York, and surveyed her western waters; went as far west as Pittsburghj and , .^v,v...i the waters of Mm j. ........ ...A VirginiJi., .a^.» ,..o.wu of opinion that the unprovement of the rivers James and Potomack, would afford the easiest communication with the western country, the States of Maryland and Virgi- nia were induced by hinij to co-operate in this gi'cat ol)- ject. Tliese pleasing visions and prophetic views of ills coun- try's greatness, by the improvement of the advantages so boimtifully bestow^ed u}X)n her, were soon interrupted by those sad realities which thi'ew a gloom over the land, and made the friends of rational freedom almost despair of en- joying that liberty, w^hich had been won b}^ tJie sacrifice of so much life and propert}^ The union of the States under a government of sTiffici:'nt powder to secure tlie peace and prosperity of tl wa^^ an object whicli Washington had long deemea ot the utmost importance. At the close of the war, he addressed a farew^ell letter to the Governors of the several States, and 'being his last of- ficial communication to them, was richly fraught w^lth paternal comisel, and enforced by all the affectionate con- siderations which could address themselves to the liumau heart. In this, Wasliington dwelt upon the necessity of '■ an indissoluble union of the ^States, under one federal head, as essential to the well being and existence of the 'united States as an independent power.' His letter produced for a time a great ei'irct, oui, it could not permanently control that love of power so pre- dominant in our nature, and the defects of the articles of confederation, under which i;iotliing could be done but through the agency of the States, w^ho acted or not, at their pleasure, became every day raoie appareiit and la- mentable. - It soon became evident, that the form of fed- eral government which kept ti;^ f^U:^(-^ f '-.n-Atlv^v li-.-ler t/r pressure of w* ai, when th'. 25 forced the necessity of union, and a compliance with tlic requisitions of Congress, had beeome whoU}^ inefficient when this danger was removed, and other objects and passions obtained the ascendency. Tlie States, therefore, were becoming contemptible at home by internal dissen- sions, and odious and contemprible abroad, from a want of power to enforce the observance of treaties, and the consequent breaches, in several of the States, of the public faith. Without the power, also, of countervailing those laws of foreign nations, which protected their own naviga- tion and manufactures, the American people presented an affecting spectacle of civil dissension, domestic insurrec- tion, private want, and public bankruptcy, without a hope of relief, except by a more perfect union, an event there was so little reason to expect from the discordant temper of the times. Washington could not behold unmoved, the distresses of his country. A view of them, and especially of the in- surrection which had broken out in Massachusetts, caus- ed him thus to express himself in a letter to a friend : ' I am mortified beyond expression, when I view the clouds which have spread over the brightest morn that ever dawned upon any country. In a word, I am lost in amazement, when I behold what intrigue, the interested views of desperate characters, ignorance and jealousy of the minor part, are capable of effecting as a scourge on the major part of our fellow citizens of the Union ; for it is hardly to be supposed that the great body of the people, though they will not act, can be so short sighted, or en- veloped in darkness, as not to see rays of a distant sun, through all this mist of intoxication and folly.' ' You talk, my good sir, of employing influence to op- pose the present tumults in Massachusetts. I know not where that influence is to be found ; nor if attainable, that 26 It would be a^proper remedy for tliose disorders. Infitience is not government. Let us have a government by which our Hves, liberties ancrpropertics will be secured, or let us know the worst at once.' The necessity became so urgent of revising the articles of Confederation, and of so amending them as to render the federal Constitution ' adequate to the exigencies of government and the preservation of the Union,' that Con- gress on the 21st February, 1787, recommended a con- vention of delegates of the several States, to meet in May at Philadelphia, for that purpose. Washington had previously been appointed, hj Virginia, a delegate to a convention, which was recommended by a convention of delegates from six States at Annapolis. — Washington, having determined when he resigned his military commission, to take his leave of the cares of pulj- lic hfe, declined the appointment ; but Virginia, miwilling to dispense with his services, continued liis name in the list of delegates, in the hope that he might be induced to alter his determination. When Congress passed this resolution, which made it probable that there would be a fidl representation from all the States at the proposed convention, the friends of Wash- ington were the more desirous of his presence. An opin- ion becoming prevalent, that a S3^stem of greater enegy iiuist be esta])lished by agreement or by force, and it hav« mg been intimated, that his declining to aid in the present crisis, might be attributed to a desire to rely on force, as the surest remed}^, he ultimately agreed to attend as a del- egate, and in his letter of acceptance to the Governor of Virginia, said : ' As my friends, with a degree of solicitude which is unusual, seem to wish for my attendance on this occasion, I have come to a resolution to go, if my health will pcnjiit, provided, from thelop^^c of time between your 27 excellency's letter and tliis reply, the executive may not (the reverse of which would be liighly pleasing to me) have turned their thoughts to some otlier character.' This Convention contained some of the wisest men of America. There we behold the illustrious name of Frank- lin ; this bright assembly of worth and talent, unanimous- ly chose Washington President ; an honor which throws into the shade the splendors of an imperial crown. The deliberations of this Convention were with closed doors ; its journal has been published, but its most interesting dis- cussions are as yet but imperfectly known, a desideratum in our history, which it is hoped may be supplied by one of its ablest members, who, having received the highest honors of his country, yet survives to enlighten us by his experience and wisdom. The influence of Washington in those critical periods of this Convention, which induced the patriot almost to despair of any beneficial result, must have been highly auspicious. At length, on the 17th of September, 1787, that Constitution, which we now prize as the ark of ou.i safety, Avas reported to Congress by the Convention, ac- companied by a letter signed by Washington, in their be- half, in which are stated the difficulties of the work they had accomplished, and that the Constitution they present- ed, was * the result of a spirit of amity, and of that mutual deference and concession which the peculiarity of our po- litical situation rendered indispensable.' On the 28th September, 1787, Congress submitted this Constitution to the people of the several States for their adoption. Now commenced a contest which put in re- quisition all the talents and zeal of those who opposed, and those who advocated the Constitution, which produc- ed that immortal work of Jay, Madison and Hamilton, in its defence, and whicli agitated and excited every portion 28 of our country. Its advocates saw peace honor and per- manent prosperity in its acceptance, and all the evils which spring from anarchy in its rejection. Its opponents believed they saw in it, under a republican form, the fea- tures of the British Constitution, and feared that its adop- tion would be the grave of American liberty. Happily for our country, the dictates of reason and enlightened patriotism prevailed, and, on the 13th Sep- tember, 1788, a day as important in our annals as the treaty of peace, Congress announced the adoption of the Constitution by the requisite number of States, and ap- pointed the 4th of March, 1789, for the commencement of the new Government. This result was effected, in several States, by such small majorities, that we are warranted ^ in believing that the influence of the character of Washington, proved a second time the salvation of his country. The belief that he would be induced to administer the government which might be formed under it, and that to him might safely be intrusted the high powers confen'ed on the President, were considerations wliich must have greatly assisted the friends of the Constitution, in removing the prejudices and quieting the apprehensions which had been excited in the people by much zeal and eloquence. When the Constitution was adopted, its friends did not deem their work accomplished, unless they could in- duce Washington once more to sacrifice the pleasures of retirement, and embark " his fame and tranquility upon a tempestuous ocean. To induce him to consent to be President of the United States, was now their great effort^ and so well did they know him, that they believed their wishes would be accomplished, if they convinced him it was necessary for the welfare of his country. 29 *To those,' says Chief Justice Marshall, * who attribute human action in every case, to the motives which most usually guide the human mind, it will appear scarcely possible that the Supreme Magistracy could posess no charms for a man long accustomed to command others; — and that ambition had no share in tempting the hero of the American Revolution to tread once more the paths of public life. Yet, if his communications to friends, to whom he unbosomed the inmost sentiments of his soul, be inspected, it will be difficult for any to resist the convic- tion that the struggle, produced by the occasion, was un- affected, and that in accepting the Presidency of the Uni- ted States, no private passion was gratified ; but the victory, over a decided predilection for private life, was obtained by a sense of duty, and a deep conviction of his obliga- tions to his country.' Called by the unanimous voice of a free people, at such a crisis, Washington could not mistake the path of duty ; diffident of himself, yet encouraged by this proof of the confidence reposed in him by his fellow citizens,and trust- ing in that Almighty Being who had so often preserved him and his country, and to whom he constantly looked for aid and direction, he entered upon a new theatre of action, and assumed the arduous duties and high respon- sibilities of first President of the United States. If the du- ties of this high offie, at all times, require the best talents, aided by public confidence, this was peculiarly the case, when a new government was to be instituted, and the whole machinery organized and put in motion, which constitutes the government of the United States ; and it Avas all important that this should be accomplished in such a manner, as to propitiate the opponents and satisfy the friends of the Constitution, that by establishing it in 3* 30 the affections of the people its permanency might be se- cured. How well Washington discharged his duties in this ar- duous work, was decided by his country, wlien he was called by her unanimous voice a second time to the Pres- idency. This unequivocal testimony is the more valua- able, as powerful parties had then arisen from those differ- ences on important measures which will always exist in a free country. As Washington's first term was drawing to a close, he had formed a resolution of retiring from the cares of State, and of declaring his intention, but the same considerations which induced him to leave his retirement once more compelled him to yield to the wishes of the people, and to remain at the helm until the clouds which then threatened our safety were dissipated. Washington gave not ' to party what was meant for mankind ;' he was a mediator between rival parties, and sought to control that spirit which he saw so destructive of private and public happiness, and the licentiousness of which he feared would ultimately destroy our liberties. — In his administration, he sought the best advice on both sides ; he deliberated slowly and surel}^, and having come to a result which fully satisfied his own mind, he was firm and immoveable ; he preferred to sacrifice his own popu- larity rather than put in jeopardy those great interests which were intrusted to his keeping. This was eminent- ly manifested by the proclamation of neutrality, and the firmness with which he withstood the attempts of the . French minister, in 1793, 1794, to involve us in the w^ar w^hich grew out of the French Revolution, encouraged as the French minister was by beholding among us that en- thusiasm in faA^or of repubUcan France Avhich was then so predominant. We now look back upon those days with wonder, and our hearts glow wi(h gratitude, that a 31 protecting Providence still blessed us with him, whose weight of character enabled him to withstand the enthu- siasm of the times, and to sq.ve once more his country from war, and crown her with those rich blessings which flowed from our neutrality. But though I might not weary your patience by a re- ference to those measures which entitle this wonderful man to our most affectionate eulogy, I should exhaust my own strength, and consume more of your present time than I feel wan-anted in appropriating. We need only look around us to be convinced of the wisdom of those ad- ministrations which prepared the way for his successors ; which revived commerce ; protected navigation ; encour- aged manufactures ; established a judiciary ; organized a system of revenue, which, increasing with our growth and prosperity, has nearly extinguished those debts which are a part of the price of our liberty and independence. * We read his history in a nation's eyes,' and the eulogium which he most highly prized, still exists, by w^ords unutterable, * in the hearts of his countrymen,' No longer withheld by higher considerations, at the close of his second Presidency, Washington resolved to be- come a private citizen, and present again the rare exam- ple of the voluntary relinquishment of power. Every dis- position was manifested by the people again, unar imously to re-elect him. With a view to apprise them of his de- termination, and to impress upon them, at such a time, those truths he deemed so essential to their liberties and happiness, he addressed his fellow citizens in the manner which has been read to you. It is a rich legacy. It contains wisdom more precious than gold, truths which de- light the moralist, piety which increases devotion, and a system of politics which may invoke the blessing of heav- en, and conduct us to pei*manent fehcity. 32 On the fourth of March, 1797, Washington retkecl, — not from public admiration, for this followed him to the shades of Mount Vernon, and presented, perhaps for the last time, the spectacle of a President retiring from office, with that homage, which is now paid to the possessor of power and patronage. Washington did not long enjoy the felicity of retirement. His inestimable life was now drawing to a close. On the night of the thirteenth of December, 1799, he was attack- by a disorder which baffled the skill of his physicians, and, on the night of the next day, terminated a life which had been so splendid and useful. He died in the s full posses- sion of his faculties, expressing in his last moments that he was not afraid of death, and in the view of him who has been called the king of terrors, manifestingthat equan- imity for wliich his life had been so conspicuous. If this event had no terror for him, it had much for his country. It filled om* land with mourning ; not the mere pageantry of distress, by which so many of the great are mourned, but with that sincere grief which fills the heart, when a much loved, good, and venerated father has de- parted. A rumor of this event produced such a sensation in Congi-ess, then sitting in Philadeiphiaj that they imme- diately adjourned. On the next day, the President an- nounced to Congress the mournful tidings. Congress re- solved to testify their sense of the loss they had sustained by a funeral procession and oration, and also resolved, ' that a marble monument be erected by the United States at the city of Washington, and that the family of General Washington be requested to permit his body to be depos- ited under it ; and that the monument be so designed as to commemorate the great events of his military and po- litical life.' 33 The example of Congress was imitated throughout the comitry ; our rehgious temples were arrayed in sable, and piety and eloquence, music and poetry, combined to lionor and lament the hero, the statesman, the father of his country. The monument which Congress resolved to erect to his memory, and also that equestrian statue of their Geneial, wliich in 1783, after peace had been proclaimed, Congress unanimously resolved should be erected at the place es- tablished for the residence of tlie government, these exist only in resolutions ! Is it not high time that some evidence should be given to posterity that our gratitude did not expire with our resolves 1 Though the fame of Washington cannot be increased by monumental marble, our ingratitude will be our lasting reproach if we fail to honor such services, by those memo- rials which all civilized nations erect to their benefactors. By erecting a monument w4iich shall commemorate his worth, we may impress upon posterity our estimation of • his character ; being ever present to our legislators and statesmen, may it not check the low design, the selfisli purpose, and party zeal, and inspire that lofty integrity, and pure patriotism, which can only secure such lasting honors 1 When the Roman Fabius died, every citizen contribut- ed a small piece of money to defray the expense of his fu- neral ; « not,' says Plutarch, ' that he died without effects, but that they might bury him as the father of the people, and that the honors paid him at his death, might ])e suita- [ble to the dignity of his life.' A gi-eater than Fabius Maximus was here. Let the American people imitate this example, and thus raise a monument to Washington, tliat shall perpetuate his ser- vices and our cvatitudc. ) 34 On tliis occasion we mnst not forget those ilhistrions patriots, the members of the first Congress, who on tlie fomthof July, 1776, proclaimed our Independence, and who, in that gloomy period which immediately preceded the victory of Trenton, with unshaken fortitude, resolved that they would listen to no terms of accommodation, which required a surrender of the Independence they had declared. And long will we remember that noble army of martyrs, who freely laid down tlieir Mves for their country. ' tlow sleep the brave who sink to rest, Dy all tlieir country's wishes blest ! Their honor comes a pilgrim grey, To bless the turf that wraps their clay, And Freedom shall awhile repair, To dwell a weeping hermit there !' On this day, also, will we remember that noble youth, by birth made noble, but by nature more, who l^ft the pleasures of a luxurious court, to enrol himself among the sons of liberty; who freely gave his blood and treasure to our sacred cause ! As long as the name of Washington inspires admiration and gratitude, thy name, La Fayette, sliall awaken kindred emotions. Thy constancy and courage in the cause of freedom, amidst the changes of tliy native land, thy honor, truth, and firm integrity, evhice how well thou wert instructed in the school of Washington ! We, my countrymen,in these last days, beheld this illustrious man, whose presence kindled among us that enthusiasm no less honorable to him than our- selves ; and we have now the happiness of reflecting, that our country has been saved from a reproach so often cast upon republics, by tliat gift that so well became a nation's jrralitude. 35 We forget not on this day that heroic army, who pre- fcerved from the perils of war, behohl with joy the beams of peace. We have seen how near they were to the heart of Washington, and how eloquently he recommended them to the love and gratitude of their country. No man knew so well their merits and their sacrifices. A few now remain to honor the memory of their venerated chief; and before another centenary, they will live only in history, the songs of our bards, or in the fond recollections of their countrymen. Let us cherish the memory of the dead ; — let us honor and cherish the living, and may their last days be blessed in beholding the prosperity of a country able and willing to pay the debt of justice and gratitude. My Countrymen, This day reminds us of our mortality. This has, indeed, been most forcibly impressed upon us, ]3y the loss we have so recently sustained of a most valua- ble citizen and counsellor,* whose presence we had so much reason to expect on this occasion, and whose death has made a chasm in society, and at tlie bar, which will long cause him to be held in remembrance. Before another centennial birth day of Washington, all of us, here assembled, will have mingled with the genera- tions that have preceded us, where there is neither ' work nor device.' There is wisdom in the reflection, and we should lay it to heart. It exhorts us to * work while the day lasteth.' Though w^e die we are to be succeeded by other generations, whose happiness depends on the faith- ful performance of our duties. There is wisdom in the reflection, for it is the touchstone that tries and exhibits true worth. It separates the gold from the tinsel ; it teaches how httle we should estimatti 'iloiL Nathaniel Searlk, 36 the pomp and vanities of life, and liow mucli we should estimate virtue. It strips from tlie hero the sceptre and. the crown, and commends, as approved of heaven, the good man struggHng with adversity, the patriot who sacri- fices himself for his coimtry. It carries us, from the fields of Napoleon's fame, to the rock of Helena, and asks us to weigh in the balances of everlasting truth the worth of mere military renown. It bids us read those eloquent bulletins which announced un- paralleled victories, and weic caiu.^^'^ted to animate every Frenchman with the love of glory, and then listen to those sentiments of piety, of moral and political wisdom, of pme and elevated patriotism, which abound in all the addresses of Washington to his countrymen, to draw the parallel and learn to appreciate the worth and character of Washington. It bids us penetrate the cabinets of politicians, view their systems of policy, how by art and intrigue so many rise to power, and preserve it by corruption; how in repubhcs they too often play off faction against faction, and lead the people by flattery and deception; in monarchies how they succeed by court cabals, and by studying the ruling passions, whims and caprices of a King ; and then behold how Washington w^on his way by open honesty and continued service, and learn to appreciate his worth. May this wasdom cause us to emulate the worth that we approve, and the character of Washington be exhibited, from generation to generation, to perpetuate those virtues without which our freedom is but a name. 'm m <: c c <: