YALE
UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

THE LIFE

OF

PETER VAN SCHAACK, LL. D.

lHunLedW ColTnirabull:

I'jigCswiB^-'fey J.S.Gtmbredc-.

' ('Z^Ksns/dLijx^D,

LIFE

PETER VAN SCHAACK, LL. D.,

EMBRACING 'SELECTIONS FROM HIS

CORRESPONDENCE AND OTHER WRITINGS,

DURING THE

^tnuructn Evolution,

HIS EXILE IN ENGLAND

BY HIS SON
HENRY C. VAN SCHAACK.

Stlperanda fortune ferendft-

NEW-YORK :
D. APPLETON & CO., 200 BROADWAY.
MDcgcayji.

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1842, by
HENRY C. VAN SCHAACK,
in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the Northern District of New- York.

PRE FA C E .

As the biography of an eminent American, of ele
vated character, of high, integrity, and of honorable
association, who, in sentiment, was opposed to ta
king up arms in the American Revolution, this work
— composed as it mainly is of original contempora
neous materials, which may help to guide the future
historian — will, it is believed, not be without its value.
Although a new field for historic research seemed
to open to his view, and to tempt investigation, the
author has aimed to confine himself within the lines of
biography, without invading the department of politi
cal philosophy, or unnecessarily encroaching upon the
province of history ; and yet a large share of his ma
terials possess the qualification of being at once auto
biographical and historical.
The author is sincerely and deeply impressed with
the conviction, that in other and abler hands the same
materials would have led to a more philosophic work ;
but as it seemed probable that the manuscripts and in
formation in his pdssession would be lost to the public

VI P R E F A C 1

unless submitted by himself, a sense of duty to that
public, and his obligations to the memory of the sub-
ject of this memoir, would not leave his mind at ease
in Withholding their publication, although aware that
his limited acquirements would expose his effort to
criticism. The work is now submitted to the public, not
without apprehensions as to its reception, and yet with
a somewhat confident expectation that it will be
found interesting as a biography, and as a novel con
tribution- to the history of the American Revolution.
The Author.
Manlius, N. Y., April, 1842.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.
Ancestry of Peter Van Schaack." — Uncouth family name. — Anecdote in re
lation thereto. — His parents uneducated. — Their character. — His birth. — Brief
notice of Henry Van Schaack, his elder brother, and an officer in the French
war. — He pursues classical studies with Rev. Richard Charlton, on Staten
Island. — Enters King's College. — Becomes acquainted with Jay, Benson, Har
rison, Morris, and others. — Is privately married while in College to Elizabeth
Cruger. — Displeasure of the lady's father. — Acquires his father-in-law's con
fidence. — Commences the study of law with Peter Silvester, at Albany. — Re
moves to New- York. — Enters the office of William Smith. — Is licensed to prac
tise. — Opens an office in New- York. — Flattering professional prospects. — Let
ters to Peter Silvester and Henry Van Schaack. — Letter from "Egbert Benson.
— Lawyers in New- York enter into an Association called " the Moot." — High
character of the club and of its decisions. — His early precision in professional
business. — Is appointed sole reviser of the Colonial Statutes, at the age of 26.
¦r-Executes the trust in a creditable manner. — His vision is impaired by the la
bor of preparing this work. — Assumes a high stand in his profession. — His
flattering prospects disturbed by domestic afflictions and by the Revolu
tion, . . . . . . . . p. 1.
CHAPTER II.
News of the passage of the Boston Port Bill is received in New-York. — Mr.
Van Schaack is appointed a member of the Committee of Correspondence. —
He enters upon the duties of Committee-man. — Letter to Peter Silvester. —
Acts with the committee until its dissolution. — Letter from Edmund Burke to
the Assembly of New-York. — Letter from Mr. Van Schaack to John Jay. —
His brother-in-law, Henry Cruger, Jun., is chosen a member of the British
Parliament. — His friend,' John Vardill, embarks at New- York for England, to
take orders. — He writes to Mr. Vardill, deprecating the measures of the British
government. — Mr. Vardill's answer. — Letters from Mr. Cruger on American
affairs.— Mr. Cruger promises to " let off" Mr. Van Schaack's sentiments in
the House of Commons. — His maiden speech, espousing the American cause.
— Graphic description of Mr. Cruger's speech by Mr. Vardill, in a letter from
London. — Correspondence with Col. Maunsell condemning the measures of
Ministers. — Further letters from London from Mr. Cruger and Mr. Vardill. —
Mr. Van Schaack is appointed a member of the Non-Consumption Commit
tee, y ¦ ....... p. 16.
CHAPTER III.
Mr. Van Schaack's father-in-law embarks at New- York, for the watering
places in England. — Numerous domestic afflictions of Mr. Van Schaack. .-
Loss of four children within four years. — Sudden death of two other children.
— His reflections on this occasion. — He removes his family to Kinderhook. —
Letters from New- York. — That city no longer a desirable place of residence.
— American troops take possession of the city. — Mr. Van Schaack comes to the
determination not to take up arms against the Parent State. — Commits his
sentiments }p paper. — He loses the sight of one eye entirely. — Is chosen by the
electors of Kinderhook district a member of thp Committee of Safety and Cor
respondence for Albany county. — Attends the next meeting of the Committee.
' — Committee for Kinderhook district prefer a complaint for outrages pommit-
ted.jn their district. — Complaint established, but disregarded by the Albany

Vlll CONTENTS.
Committee.— Committee for Kinderhook district decline to sign a pledge to
take up arms.— They are expelled in their absence and without a hearing, r
Mr. Van Schaack is disposed to pursue all peaceful remedies for a redress ot
grievances.— He ceases to act with the Whigs on account of the harshness 01
their measures.— Is apprehensive of total blindness.— Sudden and alarming
illness of Mrs. Van Schaack —His sensibility is severely tried by the necessity
of separating from many of his early friends, who were for warlike measures.
—He assumes the stand of neutrality and adheres to it- His high standing and
supposed influence render him an object of suspicion, . . p. 48.
CHAPTER IV.
First Constitution of New- York adopted April, 1777.— Previous regulations
by a Provincial Congress or Convention and County Committees. — These but
a temporary expedient, and intended to expire on a reconciliation with Great
Britain. — History of these Committees.— Executive, judicial and legislative
powers confounded and exercised by one body. — Provincial Congress appoint
a Committee of Conspiracies. — Arbitrary powers conferred on this committee.
— Desperate character of the American cause at this period. — Extraordinary
powers conferred by the Continental Congress on Gen. Washington.— Con
gress apologize to the people therefor. — Abuses growing out of the arbitrary
powers conferred on the Committees. — Character of the Committees. — Anec
dote about the Albany Committee, illustrating the jealousy of liberty. — Com
mittee of Conspiracies pass a resolution directing the Albany Committee to
summon Mr. Van Schaack to take the oath of allegiance.— He appears before
the Albany Committee and declines to take the oath. — Is ordered to repair to
Boston. — He applies for time to arrange his affairs. — His application is deni
ed. — Writes to the Convention, maintaining it to be his right to remove from
the State with his family and effects. — Convention pass an order for his ap
pearance before them. — 1 hey omit to forward him a copy. — He proceeds to
Boston, and thence to Leominster. — His correspondence from Massachusetts.
— Mr. Jay sends to Mrs. Van Schaack the order for her husband's appearance.
— Mr. Van Schaack attends the Convention at Kingston. — They pass an order
suspending a hearing upon his memorial. — He repairs on his parole to Kin
derhook. — Singular course of the Convention. — He writes an essay on civil
wars and political toleration. — Terror and dismay of the inhabitants of Alba
ny and vicinity, on the approach of British armies. — Capture of Burgoyne
gives a cheering aspect to American affairs. — Anecdote respecting Burgoyne
and the Dutch matron, on his entrance into Albany — Interesting incident re
specting Madame de Reidesdel, while at Gen. Schuyler's, . p. 64.
CHAPTER V-
Mrs. Van Schaack's health becomes alarming.— She is exceedingly anxious
to visit the city of her nativity.— Is advised by her physicians that it would
have a favorable effect on her health.— New-York then a British garrison —
Mr. Van Schaack applies for leave to visit the city with his sick wife —Cor
respondence on that subject with Mr. Jay, the Governor's private Secretary —
The Governor declines giving permission, as no "reasons of state" called for
it.— Familiar correspondence with Mr. Jay.— Mrs. Van Schaack's health as
sumes a more alarming aspect.— Her distracted husband again uro-6s his am
plication, and offers to submit to any restrictions that may be imposed.— The
absence of « reasons of state" again defeats his application—Further illus
tration of the hardships of civil wars.-Application is made for leave , to Sr
Hayes an eminent physician attached to the British army captured at Sara
toga then in , A bany, to visit Mrs. Van &chaaek._The Committee of SafetV
interfere with the Commanding General to prevent the excursion—Mr, Van
Schaack, on her death bed forgives the public authorities for not allowing
her to go to New.Tork.-Bhe forgives the Committee for reS lea^e to
her physician to visit her.— Her death wing leave to
' p. 95.

CONTENTS. IX
CHAPTER VI.
Mr. Van Schaack's health demands attention. — He determines to go to
Europe to have his eye operated upon. — Writes to Mr. Jay on the subject of
obtaining permission from the Governor to go to England. — Mr. Jay dis
courages the application. — Mr. Van Schaack has an interview with the
Governor, who promises him leave to go to Europe as soon as the state of
the country would admit. — A new event occurs to swell his already over
flowing cup of afflictions. — The Legislature of New- York pass the Banishing
Act. — He is summoned before the Board of Commissioners, at Albany. — De
clines saying whether he considers himself a subject of the State of New-York
or of Great Britain. — An order is made for his banishment. — The Secretary
of the Board was his former law student. — Mr. Van Schaack's emotions on
seeing his pupil's name to the order. — He analyzes the statute by which he
was proscribed. — Correspondence with Theodore Sedgwick. — Letter from Mr.
Sedgwick to Aaron Burr. — Mr. Van Schaack proceeds from Kinderhook to
New-York. — Has an interview with Gov. Clinton at Poughkeepsie. — The
Governor assures him he was not an object of the penalties of the act by
which he was proscribed. — Governor Clinton's certificate. — Mr. Van Schaack
forwards the Governor's Certificate to the Commissioners at Albany. — It ar
rives too late, and his name is recorded with the rest. — Writes a long letter
to Mr. Jay! — The author's summary of the facts connected with Mr. Van
Schaack's case, . . .... p. 106.
CHAPTER VII.
Mr. Van Schaack's numerous and severe afflictions reviewed. — His choice
of a motto. — His reflections on leaving his native village. — He arrives at New-
York. — Letter from Gouverneur Morris. — Mr. Van Schaack embarks for Eng
land. — He describes the dangers of the sea. — Touches Ireland. — Compares
the situation of its inhabitants with those of America. — Letter from Cork to
his son. — He proceeds to England. — Arrives at Bristol. — Affecting interview
with his father-in-law. — Extracts from his Diary and Journal of Travels while
in England, ........ p. 129.
CHAPTER VIII.
Mr. Van Schaack's occupations while in London. — Rare opportunities for
acquiring information. — Is a frequent attendant on the debates in Parliament.
— Makes notes of debates on American affairs. — Gen. Howe's conduct of the
American war becomes the subject of Parliamentary debate. — His misman
agement of the war. — Narrow chance for American Independence. — Severe
strictures of political writers on Gen. Howe's military conduct in America. —
Mr. Van Schaack was probably one of those writers. — His notes of a debate
in Parliament in regard to Gen. Howe. — His letter to Gen. Howe, exposing
his mismanagement of the American war, ... p. 164.
CHAPTER IX.
Mr. Van Schaack's anxiety about the education of his three children still in
America. — His observations on that subject, written in New- York and at
sea. — Letters from London to his son, .... p. 185.
CHAPTER X.
Letters from London to his son continued, ... p. -205.
CHAPTER XI.
Extracts from his Diary and Political Speculations while in England,
1779 to 1781, ........ p. 236.

X CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XII.
Mr. Van Schaack's peculiar sentiments in regard to the American Revolu
tion.— Charity formed a prominent trait in his character.— He always looked
for a good motive in canvassing the conduct of individuals. — Applies this prin
ciple to rulers.— Gave ministers credit for integrity of purpose, in their mea
sures against the Colonies. — On his arrival in England, he takes pains to inform
his mind as to the designs of the British Ministry.— Becomes satisfied of their
corruption. — Changes his former views on this subject. — Reduces his senti
ments to writing. — Resolves to return to America, but is deterred by the state
of his eyes. — At one time he concluded to undergo an operation. — In prospect
of a fatal result, he arranged his papers and drew his will. — He is alarmed
by an attack on his other eye. — Is temporarily relieved. — The surrender of
Lord Cornwallis, the signal in England for the abandonment of the American
war. — Extracts from Mr. Van Schaack's Diary and Notes of Debates in Par
liament. — Ministers are outvoted. — They resign. — New Ministry formed, with
the Marquis of Rockingham at their head. — Charles James Fox is introduc
ed into the new Cabinet. — Sudden death of the Marquis of Rockingham. —
A schism in the new Ministry. — iMr. Fox resigns. — Letter from Mr. Van
Schaack, exposing the inconsistencies of the Ex-Minister, . . p. 257.
CHAPTER XIII.
Mr. Van Schaack's fondness for youth. — Familiar letters to a young
friend, . . . . . . . . . p. 278.
CHAPTER XIV.
The American Revolution had interrupted Mr. Van Schaack's intercourse
with many of his early friends. — The dawn of peace opens the way for their
re-union. — Mr. Jay arrives in Paris. — Mr. Van Schaack renews a correspond
ence with him. — Mr. Jay visits England. — These old friends meet.— Signifi
cant entry in Mr. Van Schaack's Diary, p. 300.
CHAPTER XV-
Correspondence from England, with his relatives in America, . p. 314.
CHAPTER XVI.
Correspondence from England, with his relatives in America, contin-
ued> ... . . ... p. 343.
CHAPTER XVII .
Correspondence from England with eminent gentlemen in America —
Letter to Theodore Sedgwick— From Gouverneur Morris.— To Gouverneur
Morris.— From Gouverneur Morris.— To Oliver Wendell..— To John Jay —
From John Jay, (including a letter from George Clinton to Mr. Jav )— To
Peter Silvester, . ' r,cn
' • . p. oo9.
CHAPTER XVIII.
Mr. Van Schaack determines to leave England— His heart beats high in
the prospect of soon meeting his friends in America.-Letters to his son and
to Jane Silvester his sister— He embarks at Falmouth— Arrives in the har
bor of New- York— Receives intelligence of the death of his mother -Mr
Jay meets him on board the ship, and conducts him to the Governor and
Chief J ust.ce— Mr. Van Schaack proceeds to Kinderhook— His return £
welcomed by men of all parties— His society is sought after— He becomes
an object of great interest through life, . „ ™

CONTENTS. Xi
CHAPTER XIX.
No impediments interposed to Mr. Van Schaack's resuming his residence
in the State of New-York.— AconVictionunder the Banishing Act depended
on a return to the State— The Treaty of Peace contained a stipulation against
future prosecutions. — His case probably came within the 6th Article. — Public
authorities embarrassed in regard to the law. — No disposition manifested to
molest him. — Early legislation of New- York — Its extreme severity. — Mr. Van
Schaack's views in regard to the Banishing Act. — The Confiscation Act con
demned by some of the most eminent Whigs. — Mr. Jay's views on that sub
ject. — Singular provisions of that statute for trying deceased persons. — Curi
ous provisions of the " Act to complete the quota of the troops." — Severe
provisions of the "Act to preserve the Freedom and Independence of this
State." — It disfranchises all who had not been friendly to the Revolution. —
Another statute prohibited all lawyers from practising who could not prove
they had been " good and zealous friends to the American Cause." — This
statute in force when Mr. Van Schaack returned from England. — Many em
inent men thereby excluded from the legal profession. — An effort, in 1785, to
procure its repeal, fails. — A more liberal spirit actuates the next legislature. —
The law against Attornies and the Disfranchising Act are repealed. — A spe
cial statute is passed restoring Mr. Van Schaack to Citizenship. — He is ad
mitted to the bar of the Supreme Court a second time. — Opens a law office in
his native village, ....... p. 393.
CHAPTER XX.
Mr. Van Schaack leads a life of great activity and enjoyment, during the
first few years after his return from England. — He is received into all compa
nies with a hearty welcome and distinction. — Selections from his correspon
dence at this period. — Interesting picture presented in the friendships of the
Revolutionary period, ...... p. 404.
CHAPTER XXI.
Federal Constitution recommended to the States for their adoption. — Mr.
Van Schaack takes a deep interest in favor of that instrument. — He mounts
the Rostrum and harangues his fellow-citizens. — He is put in nomination as
a. delegate to the State Convention. — Letters to Henry Walton and to his
son. — Mr. Van Schaack revises the Conductor Generalis. — Determines to
avoid public life, from a conviction that he could be more useful to his coun
try in a private station. — Is married to Elizabeth Van Alen. — Her character.
— Correspondence with Peter Silvester, Henry Van Schaack, John Jay, and
Theodore Sedgwick. -^Mr. Jay becomes a candidate for Governor of N. Y. —
Mr. Van Schaack takek a deep interest in the election of his friend. — Writes a
series of articles condemnatory of the conduct of the State Canvassers. — Let
ter to Andrew Carshore giving Mr. Jay's character. — Mr. Van Schaack's char
acter as a lawyer. — Letters from eminent men to the author on that subject. —
His veneration for the law illustrated by an anecdote. — His vision becomes so
much impaired as to render an amanuensis necessary. — Writes to Theodore
Sedgwick that his epistolary pleasures are at an end. — Devotes much of his
time to instructing young gentlemen in the science of law. — Nearly one
hundred young men have been educated by him. — Compiles an Analysis of
the Practice of the Supreme Court, for the use of his students. — Letter from
James Kent. — Mr. Van Schaack's students ever retained a high regard for
their Instructor. — A letter from one of them. — At the age of 82 he has two
law students. — He writes to a former student, " like a coachman who loves
the smack of his whip, I have still some professional occupations," p. 425.
CHAPTER XXII.
Mr. Van Schaack's severe domestic afflictions after his return from England.
— Sudden death of his oldest son. — Letters to his absent children on that event.

Xll CONTENTS.
— Death of another son at the age of 20, and when about to take a collegiate
degree. — Death of Mr3. Van Schaack. — His conduct on the next anniversary
of that occasion. — His tenderness for the sensibilities of others. — He and
Judge Benson visit Mr. Jay. — Correspondence with Mr. Jay. — Mr. Van
Schaack prepares some toasts for the anniversary meeting of the Alumni of
Columbia College. — Receives the degree of Doctor of Laws. — Incidents illus
trating his habits, occupations and character. — Closing correspondence with •
Mr. Jay. — Death of that eminent man. — Mr. Van Schaack composes an epi- '
taph on his friend. — Letter from Egbert Benson.— Mr. Van Schaack's illness
and death. — His character, . ... . ,<¦ p. 447. i
APPENDIX^
A. Edmund Burke's letter respecting the hearing at the Cockpit upon
the petition for the removal of Governor Hutchinson, . p. 467.
B. Henry Cruger's speech in Parliament, ..... p. 468.
C. Resolve of Continental Congress giving extraordinary powers to
Gen. Washington, . . ... p. 473..'
D. Letter from the Convention of N. Y. to Chairman of Tryon county
Committee, ....... p. 474.
E. Detail of proceedings in relation to the district of Kinderhook, p. 475.
F. Order of the Convention for Mr. Van Schaack's appearance, . p. 478.
G; Parole, . ..... .p. 479.
H. Minutes by Mr. Van Schaack, in relation to the last sickness and
death of Mrs. Van Schaack, ..... p. 479.
I. Banishing Act,  .p. 485.
J. Debate in the House of Lords in regard to the execution of Colonel
^y"63. • . p. 487.

K. Dialogue between the ghosts of Lord Chatham and Charles Town
shend'  , . p.488.
L. Sixth Article of Treaty of 1783, . p 490

ERRATA.
Page 21, line 12 from top, for vanquished, read vanished.
» ico ?otefJ0/ contlnentiaI, read continental.
>i lo? v F,from top, for numbers, read number.
., ?£;' !'ne 5 f]?m,i2E' for m?iior> read Mayor.
" 424, line 1, for 1777, read' 1787.
" 427, line 14 from top, for Ultb. Art, read in Art

THE LIFE

OF

PETER VAN SCHAACK.

CHAPTER I.
The ancestors of Peter Van Schaack came from Holland. The
period and the particular circumstances, at and under which they
left their father-land, to encounter the hardships and share the
fortunes of the New World, are unknown. They were probably
among the early emigrants to this country, when New-York was a
Dutch colony. The family name — so uncouth and difficult of pro
nunciation from the reading — would seem to furnish some evidence
of the genuineness of their Dutch origin. There is reason for believ
ing that it was originally spelled Schaeck, though pronounced like
the present name. The name of Van Schaick is.doubtless a corrup
tion, and perhaps improvement, of the same original. The subject
of this sketch was designated by the attendants^ his lodgings,
when in London, as " The gentleman with a hard name."*
Cornelius Van Schaack, the father of our subject, was by pro
fession a merchant, being engaged in business at Kinderhook,
in the State of New- York, where he resided. He was also for
many years a skipper on the Hudson river, antecedent to the
Revolution. The parents of Peter Van Schaack were uneducated ; and they
only enjoyed, in early life, such limited opportunities for improving
# The Variety of ways in which this name is pronounced would be obvi
ated, if the rule of giving to the double a the broad sound was observed.
1

2 THE LIFE OF
the mind, as were afforded by a country residence in the colony of
New-York, during the early part of the last century. His lather
however, was a man of great sagacity and strength of mind, and
of marked energy and decision of character, whose personal appear
ance is represented to have been very dignified and command
ing, and such as to inspire those in his presence with awe,
and to have secured their respect and attention. His mother was
a woman of good sense, simple and unostentatious in her manners,
of marked piety, and of great sensibility of feeling ; which latter
quality was transmitted to her children. *
The subject of this sketch was born at Kinderhook, in March,
1747, and was the youngest of seven children. Henry, the oldest,
who died in 1823, at the advanced age of ninety years and up
wards, was an extraordinary man, and exhibited in his life and
actions, how early disadvantages may be overcome by attention
and perseverance. Although he had not even studied the rudiments
of English grammar, his letters and other productions are remark
able, not only for profundity of thought, but for their grammatical
correctness, and frequently for classic beauty. His knowledge of
grammar was acquired solely by the ear, and by paying strict atten
tion to the conversation of gentlemen of education, into whose com
pany accident or business might cast him. He was a man of .great
enterprise and fearlessness of character ; and was engaged, at an
early period, in the fur trade, being interested in establishments for
that purpose, at Niagara and Detroit, at which latter place he re
sided for several years previous to the Indian wars of 1761.
Henry Van Schaack was an officer in the last French war. In
a conversation, in 1816, with an eminent civilian still upon the stage,
he communicated the following particulars in regard to the three
sanguinary conflicts which took place on one and the same day, at
Fort George and French Mountain. He " was a lieutenant in
a company of which the late General Schuyler was captain, in the
New-York levies, at Fort George and Fort Edward, in
August, 1755 ; when Baron Dieskau was defeated by General,
afterwards the humane and generous Sir William Johnson,
of Montgomery county. His description of the battle was
essentially the same as it is detailed by Smollett, who has re
lated it very correctly. He was in Fort Edward, when Baron

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 3
Dieskau defeated Colonel Williams's party, and attacked the lines at
Fort George, and was one of the detachment which went up the same
day, and defeated the retreating army of Baron Dieskau, whom
he found pillaging the dead that lay in the road and woods, two or
three miles south of Lake George. There were about three hundred
of Colonel Williams's party lying dead. On going into the camp
at Lake George, to the quarters of General Johnson, he found
him wounded, and related to him the ultimate rout of the French ;
and in his same tent, and on his bed, lay the Baron Dieskau, also
grievously wounded.
" He reached General Johnson's tent in the night, after the
three skirmishes and battles of the day, viz.: (1.) Dieskau's defeat
of Col. Williams's party. (2.) His unsuccessful storm of General
Johnson's lines, perhaps in the middle of the day. (3.) The dis
persion of his retreating and defeated troops, by Captain Maginnis
and Lieutenant Van Schaack, in the afternoon, or rather evening,
for the last fight was after nightfall."*
Honorable mention is made, in the contemporaneous accounts
of these events, of Lieutenant Van Schaack's bravery and military
conduct on the latter occasion. This tribute, slight though it
be, is due to his memory.
Not to particularize other members of the family, (which would
be beyond the scope of this work,) it will be sufficient to say, that
the family of Cornelius Van Schaack was one of respectability and
influence, and it was remarkable for the good sense, natural intel
lectual endowments and integrity of principle, and for the energy,
enterprise and stability of character of nearly all its members. The
opportunities for acquiring a good education, which were afforded
by a country residence at that early period, were extremely limited,
and the subject of this sketch was the first young man who receiv
ed a liberal or collegiate education from his native town.
But few particulars have survived the wreck of time, in regard
to the early history and youthful course of Peter Van Schaack. He
appears to have manifested an inclination, at one period, to enter
-r
* The author is indebted, for this extract, to the Honorable James Kent, '
by whom the statements of Mr. Van Schaack were committed to paper at the
time of the conversation, and placed at the end of the third volume of Smol
lett's History of England.

4 THE LIFE OF
the army; but his father had, at an early day, designed him for
one of the liberal professions. He was placed at school in his
native village, where the ordinary branches of a common English
education were taught. His young ambition was much repressed
by the unhappy temper and injudicious conduct of his teacner.
This incident in the early part of his life, is thus adverted to in one
of his letters to his son : .
" My tutor, by a warmth of temper and an unreasonable impa
tience when I hesitated, which frequently happened from the influ
ence of a native diffidence, would throw me into confusion, so that
I really lost the use of my recollection, and my presence of mind,
and instead of giving me time to recover myself, he would insist on
my answering questions sometimes of an intricate nature. I be
came possessed of an idea that my talents were defective, and that
I was not designed by nature to pursue the paths of science. I
therefore urged your honored grandfather, who entertained all the
partiality of parental fondness for me, to permit me to leave my
books, and to indulge me in my wishes of going into the army.
To this he was utterly averse, and, from respect to him, as well as
from a discovery I made, that though my tutor behaved to me as if
I was a blockhead, yet, in my absence he expressed himself favora
bly of me, I persevered, and soon found myself advanced in my
learning far beyond my own most flattering expectations."
For about two years antecedent to his entering upon his colle
giate course, he was placed under the care and instruction of
the Rev. Richard Charlton, on Staten Island. This gentleman
was a clergyman of the Protestant Episcopal Church, and for many
years had been an assistant minister in Trinity Church, in the city
of New- York, and on the death of Mr. Vesey, the rector, he was
assigned to the missionary station on Staten Island. He was a
graduate of Trinity College, Dublin, and is represented to have
been an admirable scholar. It was under his rigid instruction, that
the subject of this sketch laid the foundation for that thorough ac
quaintance with the Latin language, which rendered him, in subse
quent life, probably one of the best Latin scholars in the state. He
was accustomed to speak with the highest veneration of his " old
master," and he ever reverted to his valuable instructions with feel
ings of gratitude.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 5
In 1762, (being then in his sixteenth year,) he entered the
Freshman class in King's College, in the city of New- York. This
was an eventful era in his life. It was here that he formed an
interesting and valuable acquaintance with John Jay, Egbert Ben
son, Richard Harrison, Gouverneur Morris, Robert R. Livingston,
and many other illustrious men, whose enviable reputations now
constitute the richest property of their country. Between the four
first named individuals and the subject of this sketch, the greatest
intimacy existed, and an uninterrupted friendship continued through
life ; and the biographer or historian who should assay to do jus
tice to the memory of either, could not fail to spread upon his pages
the names of all these choice spirits in juxtaposition.
In the autumn of 1765, (while still at college, and being then
in his twentieth year,) he was privately married to Elizabeth
Cruger, daughter of Henry Cruger, an intelligent and opulent
merchant in the city of New-York. This apparently precipitate
step occasioned the marked displeasure of the young lady's father.
A reconciliation, however, shortly afterwards took place, and Mr.
Van Schaack lived to enjoy, in an eminent degree, the confidence
of that gentleman, and was appointed by him one of his executors.
While at college, he received several premiums for scholarship,
and ranked first in his class. Having finished a regular collegiate
course, he commenced the study of the law, in the spring of 1766,
in the office of Peter Silvester, at Albany. With this gentleman
he remained about eighteen months, when he went to the city of
New-York, and entered the office of William Smith, the historian,
and one of the most distinguished jurists of that day.
The duties which devolved upon him in the office of Mr. Smith,
whose business was very extensive, would seem to have been very
laborious, and to have required a great share of industry and appli
cation. The office duties of clerks at that period were immensely
laborious — every thing was written, and the drudgery of copying
was oppressive. Printed blank forms, which are now used
by the profession with so much economy of time and labor, were
then unknown. Even the argument of questions of law before the
Supreme Court was conducted in writing. The practice of having
the " points" only in writing, and the substitution of oral for writ
ten arguments at the bar of the Supreme Court, was adopted some

6 THE LIFE OF
years after the Revolution, at the suggestion of Alexander Hamil
ton, whose immense business did not leave him time to reduce his
arguments to writing; while his intuitive mind no doubt despised
the drudgery.
It was about this period that the Commentaries of Sir William
Blackstone first ' appeared in this country, and presented to the'
young law student the advantage of a systematic work on legal
science, which he had not before enjoyed.
At the January term of the Supreme Court, in 1769, Mr.
Van Schaack underwent the usual examination in company with
his particular friends Egbert Benson and Richard Harrison, and
was licensed to practice as an attorney of that court. It was consi
dered a very remarkable circumstance at the time, that three young
gentlemen should be admitted to the bar at one term*
Shortly after his admission, he opened an office in Cedar-street,
in the city of New-York ; and he soon found a rapidly increasing
business intrusted to his charge. Respected for his talents, and
with a reputation unsullied, — bringing to the profession habits of
industry and a disciplined mind, and having also an extensive fam
ily connection, who manifested every disposition to promote his
advancement, — he entered upon his professional career under the
most flattering circumstances. His early matrimonial connection,
and the responsibility of an increasing family, were a great stimu
lus to his ambition and industry, and had increased his anxiety to
be admitted to the practice of his profession ; and he was in fact
licensed after a shorter period of study than was required by the
strict rules of the court.
The letters which follow are deemed worthy of preservation
for their historical interest. TO PETER SILVESTER.f
_ „ Mew-York, 1st Jan., 1769.
Dear Sir :
Our town is just now rather barren of events to fill a letter
with; however, I shall endeavor to repair my past deficiency as a
* From thirty-five to fifty are now usually licensed at each of the four
terms. t This gentleman married Mr. Van Schaack's sister, and at this time he
was in the practice of the law at Albany. He was a member of the first

P. ETER VAN SCHAACK. 7
correspondent, by gleaning together something or another as chance
shall turn it up.
The subject of a dissolution of the House is most talked of.
Two things, it is said, will produce this, if they are done : The first,
reading the Boston Circular Letter. In this case, the Governor, 'tis
said, has a positive instruction immediately to dissolve them. The
second, the entering into constitutional resolves of the independency
of the colonies on Great Britain as to taxation. In this case, the Gov
ernor thinks himself bound ex-officio to dissolve them. He reasons in
this way : there is now actually existing an act of Parliament,
(made at the time of the repeal of the stamp act,) declaring the
supremacy of Great Britain over the colonies in this very right of
taxation. By this law the crown itself is bound in its powers, and
consequently to that law he as a servant of the crown must render
obedience. Now, he says, every declaration of our Assembly, de
rogatory from that power and that right, he must take notice of,
and discountenance.
This kind of reasoning, however just and solid, his Excel
lency's situation considered, does not produce conviction in the
minds of people here. Addresses have been presented, or rather
instructions, from the citizens in this town, enjoining both these
measures, and it is supposed that they will be complied with.
The controversy seems now to stand on a point of punctilio.
The Governor says that he has strong authority to think that the
ministry are very pacifically inclined towards the colonies, and are
anxious that the latter should not enter into any violent (so they
call what we term spirited) measures, for this reason, that they,
the ministry, may have the credit of carrying their good intentions
into action without seeming to be forced into it. The people, on
the other hand, have not much confidence in the sincerity of minis
terial promises or declarations, and, should they not publicly de
clare their sentiments, they consider that they will be viewed in
Provincial Congress, and, upon the organization of the county of Columbia,
in 1786, he. was appointed a judge of the county courts. In*1789, he was
chosen a representative in Congress for that county. He was also after
wards elected to seats' in both branches of the state legislature. Judge Sil
vester was a gentleman of respectable talents, of unbending integrity, and of
great moral worth.

8 THEL1FE0F
an inferior light to those of their sister colonies who have adopted
more spirited conduct, and also of giving up the general cause of
liberty^ Nay, it would seem as if this Assembly had abandoned those
sentiments which the last preceding House has so publicly declared,
and left as a lasting testimonial on the minutes of their proceedings.
From hence you will gather that a dissolution seems almost in
evitable, and yet some discretionary powers may be lodged with
the Governor that may bring about a compromise.
You may have heard of or seen on the minutes of the House,
that a bill has been before the House to curtail — to annihilate as it
were — the proceedings in the Supreme Court ; in confining its ju
risdiction to causes only above a hundred pounds. I am told it is
miscarried. I look upon this bill as an effect of an almost universal
clamor against the law and its practisers. You cannot conceive
the violence of people's prejudices ; whether they are groundless,
or, as the lawyers say, unjustly levelled against the whole profession
for the chicanery of a few individuals, or whether they are really
chargeable to the body of the law in general, the respectable
gentlemen on each side of the question hinder me from determin
ing entirely.
However this may be, the end aimed at is the total destruc
tion of the profession — a profession, however, without which socie
ty would not easily subsist. I am afraid the consequence of this
prejudice will be, that the practice will be thrown into the hands of
a lower class of people ; for if the fees are very low it will be un
worthy the attention of a gentleman. This may make the business
of an attorney and that of a counsellor two distinct branches, and I
fancy not very well answer the purpose of lessening the law
charges. Party spirit runs high, (as Coke says of ambition,) it rideth
without reins. Should this Assembly be dissolved and a new elec
tion succeed, depend upon it, it will give birth to such bitterness
and rancor as perhaps has not hitherto showed itself.
Upon the whole, you will think my anxiety to get into a state
of independence justifiable. As you intend your letter for my
benefit, and the restriction in it arose from a sense of duty, as I sup
pose, or at least of equity, you will easily excuse my suppressing

peter Van schaack. 9
this letter, as I shall make known the contents to Mr. Smith as if
conveyed in a letter to myself.
I am, Dear Sir,
Your affectionate friend and brother,
P. V. Schaack.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
JYew-York, Jan'y 2d, 1769.
My dear Brother :
I received your favor by the post. I shall pay due attention
to the contents.
This day our Assembly will be dissolved. I believe it is in
evitable : the Resolves I hear were made last Saturday evening.
As to your brother-in-law, believe me, my dear Harry, I will
give him my instruction with the greatest pleasure. I wish his
genius may be adapted to the law. Mention to Mr. Blackboum
to have his turn of mind consulted. Does he write to you 1 Get
him to tell you the favorite parts of his studies. Beg that he may
read history, that grand fountain of instruction. I do not recollect
his age, and therefore cannot guess at the stage he is advanced to in
his learning ; but if he is designed for the law, I would recommend
to him as soon as he is fit to read them, Cicero de officiis, and Puf-
fendorf de jure hominis et civis. These are books that treat of
the moral and civil duties, and are an excellent foundation to begin
the study of law upon.
I think I could chalk out a path for a prompt lad that would
furnish him with great instruction, and show a pretty direct road to
an acquaintance with the laws of England. Believe me, I know
not above one or two in town that do tolerable justice to their
clerks. For my part, how many hours have I hunted, how many
books turned up for what three minutes of explanation from any
tolerable lawyer would have made evident to me ! It is in vain to
put a law book into the hands of a lad without explaining difficul
ties to him as he goes along. I could better convey and illustrate
my ideas on this subject to one of the profession than to you, who
must be unacquainted even with the necessary terms to clothe
them in.
From David and Lydia's letters, I am afraid my mother is
2

10 THE LIFE OF
very ill. I am anxious to hear more on this subject, and beg you
will immediately gratify me. Should this honored parent still con
tinue ill, let me know of it, and I will make a jaunt up. I am,
with love to Jane, and the compliments of the season, dear H.,
Your very affectionate brother,
P. V. Schaack.
Tuesday morning. The Assembly is actually dissolved. It
is said the Governor has told your members there will be a new
election immediately. Pray how is your county affected 1
Mr. Smith tells me that very bad accounts are arrived from
England. The King has expressed himself to his Parliament in a
violent, flaming manner against the colonies.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
New-York, Friday, 27 Jan'y, 1769.
Our election is ended, and the Church triumphant. Messrs.
Cruger, Delancey, Walton and Jauncey* are the members, in spite of
all the efforts of the Presbyterian interest combined with some other
dissenting sects. This is what the Churchmen call a complete vic
tory; — 'tis a lasting monument of the power of the mercantile
interest. It is impossible there ever could be a more decently con
ducted election, but it will add fuel to a flame of party spirit which
I believe will never be extinguished. It is said that matters go so
high as to single out tradesmen of each respective party — this,
though, is chiefly charged upon the minority, but will for the fu
ture, I fancy, be more general.
How do you like the event of this election 1 It is, I own,
very agreeable to me, and yet it throws rather too much weight
into a scale which I wish, indeed, rather than any other, to prepon
derate ; but in general my sentiments are in favor of a balance of
power. In a constitution like that of Great Britain, there ever
will be (I wish never to see the day when there shall not be)
•parties. The bulk of the people will be divided, and espouse one
or other side. From the very temper of man, when he gets power
he will be tempted to abuse it, especially when he is irritated by
the reflection of past opposition.
* John Cruger, James Delancey, Jacob Walton and James Jauncey.

peter van schaack. 11
The unsuccessful party, on the contrary ^re little disposed to
submit to any exercise of superiority, even though intended for
their benefit, from a set of people they hate ; but while each party
continues formidable to the other, and upon an equal footing, nei
ther will dare to attempt, because neither can, oppress. The ap
prehensions expressed by the Presbyterians are, I believe, in truth,
chimerical ; but with respect to themselves they are real, because
they think them so. They think they have, as a religious body,
every evil to expect from the growing power of the Church ; they
are, therefore, I think, justifiable in opposing it, and by that means
prevent the dreaded evil. The Church, say they, is secured in
every branch of the legislature, and has no mischief to dread from
their having some leading members in the House of Assembly ; and
why should this only door at which they can possibly enter, and by
which they can acquire any degree of significance, — the other
branches of power being at the disposal of the Crown, and out of
the reach of those who are disagreeable to mitred heads, — why,
say they, should this be shut against them ? 'Tis pity that the
zeal of these gentlemen has hurried them into acts which have
already proved of vast disservice to them.
I inclose you some papers that have appeared on the occasion
of the election. Numberless others were handed about, but of
little merit. It is surprising what trifles can be turned to the
greatest advantage in elections, and be made to captivate the pas
sions of the vulgar, or, as Hamlet says, " to split the ears of the
groundlings." A straw, a firebrand, have severally answered this
purpose in a recent instance. It was said, during the last election,
that T. Smith had said that the Irish were poor beggars, and had
come over here upon a bunch of straw. The whole body of Irish
men immediately joined and appeared with straws in their hats.
Mr. Kissam, who summed up the evidence for Mr. Scott in the
late charge against Mr. Jauncey, happened to say that the passions
of the Germans were like firebrands; — a whole congregation were,
in consequence of that, resolved to vote with them in their hands ;
but being dissuaded, they however distinguished themselves by the
name of the Firebrands.
These gentlemen have also made themselves remarkable by a
song in the German language, the chorus of which is :

12 THE LIFE OF
" Measter Cruger, Delancey,
Measter Walton and Jauncey."
'Twas droll to see some of the first gentlemen in town joining in
singing this song, whilethey conducted the members to the coffee
house ; on which occasion it was observed, that there was a greater
concourse of people than was ever seen on any former occasion in
town. Adieu. I believe Betsey will write a few lines to J., and thank
her, so that I need say nothing on this head. We have as many
correspondents and as many letters to write as a Secretary of State.
I am, very truly,
Your affectionate brother, P. V. Schaack.
It will be observed, that at the dates of the three preceding let
ters, Mr. Van Schaack was in his twenty-second year, and had not
quite completed his clerkship. They evmce an early maturity of
judgment, and more particularly a great share of candor, which, as
will hereafter be seen, formed a leading trait in his character.
FROM EGBERT BENSON.
Mew-York, June 2lst, 1770.
Though, friend Peter, letter-writing is not to me the most
agreeable employment, yet I should think myself inexcusable if I
did not, during your absence, send you at least a line, especially as
I do not recollect that you have another correspondent here. As
you breathe the country air, I suppose you have catched the coun
try fondness for news; however, there is scarce any thing that
transpires worth communicating.
You have doubtless heard, ere this, that the matter of the non
importation agreement has been agitated here, and that the num
ber of subscribers against it greatly exceeded that in favor of it.
Whether the non-importation agreement should still continue, is a
question as doubtful and perplexed as it is important, and with
respect to myself, I must candidly own rum liquet
A sufferer by the non-importation agreement 'struck out to me
what I beheve upon reflection, will appear a very just distinction,
namely, that it is for the interest of the city in particular, but no

PETEE TAN SCHAACK. 13
of the country in general, that we should import ; and it is upon
this principle, making proper allowances for party spirit, that I
account for a majority of subscriptions in the city.
A suspension of commerce was first hinted in New-York as the
only probable and adequate remedy for our grievances, and it was
with us that the non-importation agreement first took place, and of
consequence it greatly concerned our honor that we should be the
first for opening an importation. I mention this merely as argu
ment operating solely against us. The Philadelphians, I hear,
(mere hearsay,) refuse to accede to our proposals, and are much
displeased at our conduct. There is no account yet from Boston.
I hope you found your family and friends in health, and that
they remain so, especially Mrs. Van Schaack and the children.
You will be pleased to present my compliments to her, and to your
brother David and his lady. Be further pleased to mention me
with the most profound respect to his honor Mr. Justice Van
Schaack. I hope his honor is well, and most fervently pray that he
may be long preserved from the dreadful evil of Circurario.
You probably will see my brother Robert somewhere in your
country. What I have to add is mere surplusage, and such (to
speak lawyer-wise) as I am confident non viiiat chartam — namely
that I am your sincere friend and very humble servant, Egbert Benson.
In November, 1770, the lawyers in the city of New-York form
ed an association called " The Moot," at which disputed points of
law were formally debated, for their mutual improvement. In these
discussions, which were conducted with great regularity and order,
the subject of this sketch took a conspicuous part, and to him was
intrusted the keeping of their records. Some of these are still pre
served, and are matters of curious reference for a modern lawyer.
The deliberations of the club were rendered highly useful by
the regular attendance of the elder members of theibar, who par
ticipated in the debates upon a footing of perfect equality with their
juniors. And the names of those veteran lawyers, William Smith,
Samuel Jones, John M. Sc.ott, Richard Morris, William Livingston,
and Benjamin Kissam, (not to specify others,) need but be mention
ed to proye that the^ debates in which they participated, eould not

14 THE LIFE OF
have been barren of legal sagacity^ or of profound research into
the hidden wisdom of the common law.
Among the junior members wejfind the, names of John Jay,
Egbert Benson, Robert R. Livingston, Jun., James Duane, Gouver
neur Morris, and Peter Van Schaack.*
The decisions made upon these debates acquired great author
ity, and the law on several points in particular which had been
thus discussed and decided, was considered as settled, by the bar
generally, and " The Moot" almost acquired the authority of a
court of the last resort.
At an early period Mr. Van Schaack gave evident proof that
he was destined to become a profound lawyer. His ideas of busi
ness, and of the proper manner of doing it, were distinguished for
precision and accuracy from the commencement of his professional
career. In writing to a brother of the profession, he thus rebukes
the carelessness of his friend. " Permit me to observe that the deed
drawn in your office was rather slovenly copied, and by its many
alterations afterwards looked rather out of the way. There was,
besides, in several parts of it an fyc, which I cannot think proper,
as it is merely nugatory, and cannot, I think, make the deed better
than it would otherwise be. Excuse the freedom of these hints ;
but we cannot be too attentive to matters of this kind. A lawyer's
reputation, like a woman's, is often lost by one error." * '
But he was as willing to receive the suggestions, as to perform
the office, of criticism. In writing to the same friend at another
time, he says : " If any part of my letter is exceptionable, point it
out. Nothing clears difficulties like candid reasoning. By colli
sion of sentiment the truth is struck out, like fire from flint and
steel." TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
My dear Brother :
As I intend going down to New-York on Tuesday, I hope
you will return as you design on Monday. I left the Hallf last
* The author is unable to give a complete list of the members of the Moot.
t Johnson Hall. This letter is without date, but was evidently written
very soon after Sir William Johnson's death; which took place' on the eleventh
day of July, 1774, although accounts differ as to the precise time.

PETER TAN SCHAACE. 15
evening, where every thing wears the face of sorrow for the irre
parable loss of that great and good man, Sir William Johnson, —
a loss at once to the public, and a numerous train of the indigent
and unfortunate, who derived support from his unequalled benevo
lence and generosity. My jaunt up to Johnstown has given me
an opportunity of seeing so many instances of his goodness ; the
settlement there compared with what it was a few years ago so
abundantly shows his greatness of mind, and the extensiveness of
his views, where a little world has as it were been formed by his
hand, that I own I consider him as the greatest character of the age.
I have several circumstances to tell you, which, though hot
important in themselves, must be interesting to you, as they relate
to a man, who, I hope, enjoys the fruit of those virtues which will
grow more conspicuous, instead of being forgotten, by length of
time. Yours affectionately, P. Van Sch&ack.
In 1773, he was appointed to the important and responsible
office of collecting and revising the statute laws of the colony of
New-York. The execution of the work was intrusted to him
solely, and it was performed in a manner highly creditable to his
jpdgment and industry. At this time he was only twenty-six years
old. His revision embraced the legislation of the colony from
the year 1691 to 1773 inclusive, being a period of upwards of eighty
years. The assiduity with which he applied himself to this work had
an unfavorable effect upon his vision, and he was always of the
opinion that it was a leading cause of his. subsequent blindness.
" His edition of the colonial statutes (which was published in 1774)
is still a necessary appendage to the libraries of our lawyers."
Very soon after his admission to the bar his talents acquired
for him a high position of respectability, and he took his stand in
.. that bright constellation of professional talent and moral worth,
which at this period was collected in the city of New- York, and
constituted the bar of almost the whole colony.
But, while he was thus laying a broad foundation for a noble
structure of professional fame, his mind was disturbed and driven
from the pursuit of that noble science which had so deeply enlisted
his ambition, by the twofold causes of domestic affliction, and
popular commotion.

16 THELIFEOF

CHAPTER II.
The news of the passage of the act of Parliament for the occlu
sion of the port of Boston, reached New-York on the twelfth of
May after its adoption. On the sixteenth of the same month, the
merchants and other inhabitants of the city assembled at the Ex
change, and nominated fifty persons as a committee " to correspond
with their sister colonies upon all matters of moment." The list
of gentlemen thus selected, was submitted to a more general meet
ing, held on the nineteenth, by which it was approved, and one
other gentleman was added to the number. Mr. Van Schaack was
a member of this committee. TO PETER SILVESTER.
New-York, 21 May, 1774.
Dear Sir:
As the present situation of Boston engrosses the attention of
people in general, and you will no doubt be curious to know what
measures are adopted here, I suppose it will not be unacceptable
to you that I scribble a few lines upon that subject. People in
town are somewhat divided in sentiments as to what steps it will
be most expedient to take. A non-importation agreement has been
mentioned, and some have even gone so far as to propose entirely
to stop our exports to the West Indies : these measures are chiefly
espoused by the mechanics.
The merchants insist that we ought not precipitately to enter
into either of these plans ; that a non-importation will draw down
the vengeance of Great Britain upon us, and that will probably
bring about the shutting up our own port ; that if we are deprived
of our exports, we shall be ruined ; that our produce will lay upon
hand, and many articles, particularly flaxseed, being of a perishable
nature, will be a total loss upon those who cannot bear it ; that

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 17
our tradesmen will be without employ, our merchants be incapable
of making remittances, and, in short, all ranks and denominations of
men be irreparably injured. It has been proposed that British debts
should not be paid, but this, from the apparent injustice of it, is
dropped. Some think, there should be a Congress of deputies from all
the colonies, to consider of some general plan of measures.
Upon the whole, it has been thought advisable to appoint a
committee of fifty persons to consult upon the present state of
affairs, to correspond with the neighboring colonies, &c. Nothing
decisive has yet been done. The committee meet on Monday, but
what will be resolved is yet unknown. It has been mentioned, that
as the whole colony is interested in the measures to be pursued, it
would be right that the different counties should, if they pleased,
appoint committees to act in concert with the committee of this
city. I could wish, therefore, that these hints might be dissemi
nated through your county, that people may think upon the subject
a little and give their opinions, if requisite, how far a non-exporta
tion would be tolerable. As I have the honor of being of the
committee, I should be glad to know people's sentiments.
I send you two papers which came out to-day, which after
perusal pray send, together with this letter, to my father, who may
be inquisitive about our proceedings here ; Captain Van Alen will
deliver them to you. Love to Jane.
I am, dear sir, yours, P. V. Schaack.
" This committee was the first body organized in the colony in
opposition to the measures which resulted in the American Revo
lution."* Mr. Van Schaack was appointed a member of most of
the sub-committees, and, among others, of a committee to adopt
measures "for the relief of the poor of the town of Boston," and
of several sub-committees of correspondence in relation to the call
ing of a general Congress. He continued to act with the commit
tee until its dissolution in November.
A letter will h.ere be introduced, written on the sixth of April,
1774, to the Assembly of New-York, by Edmund Burke, the agent
* Life of John Jay, Vol. I. p. 24.
3

18 THELIFEOF
of the colony in London, detailing the action of the two houses of
Parliament with respect to the bills in relation to Boston and the
Massaqhusetts Bay. So little of the correspondence of that great
statesman with the colonial Assembly has been found, or is known
to exist, that this document becomes interesting, and deserves to be
placed in a condition for preservation.*
" The subject was ample and serious. Lord North's speech on
the first opening of the matter turned on the absolute necessity of
doing something immediate and effectual ; for things were come to
such a pass, by the evil disposition, the turbulent conduct, and the
dark designs of many in the colonies, that the deliberation was no
longer upon the degrees of freedom or restraint in which they were
to be held, but whether they should be totally separated from their
connection with, and dependence on, the parent country of Great
Britain : and that, according to the part which gentlemen should
take for or against the measure to be proposed, a judgment would
be formed of their disposition to or against that connection and
dependence. " This topic was strongly insisted upon, and stated in the same
invidious light, by other persons in office, and in general by all
those who declared themselves in favor of the ministerial pro
ceedings. On the first day appointed for the consideration of the
papers, Lord North spoke of the indispensable necessity of vigorous
measures, but in a tone more languid and moderate than is usual in
the expression of such ideas. The outline of what has since
appeared, though faintly and imperfectly, was indeed chalked out
from the beginning.
"This air of languor, however, wore off in the progress of the
business. The ministry seem to be better arranged than they
appeared to be at first. Lord North has assumed a style of more
authority, and more decision ; and the bill laying Boston under a
commercial interdict during the King's pleasure, has been proposed
* It is evidently a copy, barely omitting the formal commencement and
conclusion. Its authenticity is established by the endorsement in Mr. Van
Schaack's handwriting, " Mr. Burke to the Assembly of New- York." In the
Appendix A, will be found another letter from Mr. Burke respecting the
hearing at the Cockpit, upon the petition for the removal of Governor Hutch
inson.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 19
and supported quite through with expressions of the utmost firm
ness and resolution.
" The House was not as much animated as I have seen it upon
other occasions of a similar nature. It did, however, very readily
concur in the proposition that was moved ; not so much from any
predilection that I could observe to the particular measure which
was adopted, as from a general notion that some act of power was
become necessary, and that the hands of Government ought to be
strengthened, by affording an entire credit to the opinions of Min
istry in the choice of that act, as the best pledge of the future sup
port the House was to give in the effectual execution of any
coercive proceeding.
" The popular current, both within doors and without, at present
sets strongly against America. There were not indeed wantino-
some few persons in the House of Commons, Who disapproved of
the bill, and who expressed their disapprobation in the strongest
and most explicit terms. But their arguments upon this point made
so little impression, that it was not thought advisable to divide the
House. Those who spoke in opposition did it more for the acquittal
of their own honor, and discharge of their own consciences, by de
livering their free sentiments on so critical an occasion, than for
any sort of hope they entertained of bringing any considerable
number to their opinion, or even of keeping in that opinion several
of those who had formerly concurred in the same general line of
policy with regard to the Colonies.
" The gentlemen who spoke against the bill, rejected that state
of the question by which it was invidiously presumed^ that those
who opposed the bill were for giving up the constitutional superi
ority of this country. That imputation will always be cast off
with disdain by every good Englishman. Every good Englishman
as such must be a friend to the Colonies, and all true friends to the
Colonies (the only true friends they have had or ever can have in
England) have laid, and will lay down the proper subordination
of America, as a fundamental, incontrovertible maxim in the gov
ernment of this empire. This idea, to which they tenaciously
adhere in the full extent of the proposition, they are of opinion is
nothing derogatory to the real essential rights of mankind, which

20 THELIFEOF
tend to their peace and prosperity^ and without the enjoyment of
which, no honest man can wish the dependence of one country
upon another. Very unfortunately, in my poor thoughts, the advice
of that sort of temperate men has been as little attended to on this
K side of the Atlantic, and rather less on the other. This has brought
on misunderstandings and heats, where nothing should exist, but
that harmony and good correspondence, which ought naturally to
arise from the entire agreement of their real interests.
" I ought not to omit acquainting you with one circumstance,
that happened a little before the third reading of the Boston bill.
Mr. Bollan, agent for the council of the Massachusetts Bay, desired
to be heard against it. His petition was not received by the House
of Commons, on the idea that no agent could be authorized but by
the act of the whole Provincial legislature. To what consequences
this will lead, you are, gentlemen, to consider.
"In the House of Peers, the business was carried on nearly in the
same manner in which it passed through the House of Commons.
The question for the second reading produced a long and interest
ing debate, but for the same reasons which prevailed in the House
of Commons, no division was attempted.
" Several alterations have been proposed in the Charter Govern
ment of Massachusetts Bay, but the plan of these alterations is not
yet so distinctly settled, with regard either to their nature or extent,
as yet to afford sufficient means of forming any judgment concern
ing them. I do not find that the Ministers intend any thing further
relative to America this session.
" Such is, as well as I am able to discern it, the temper of Par
liament and of the nation, at this moment, which I thought it my
duty to lay before you, without heightening and without palliation ;
nobody can long more earnestly than I do, to see an end put to
these unfortunate differences.
" I had some conversation a few days ago with Mr. Pownall, on
the subject of the New Hampshire settlers : he is of opinion, that
nothing can tend to the speedy and happy adjustment of that
troublesome matter so much, as to settle it by a commission com
posed of impartial persons nominated by act of Assembly, among
which he thinks it would be proper to have some of the most em-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 21
inent of the judges and crown lawyers ; and that if an act for
that purpose were framed agreeably to the general instructions,
it would receive countenance here.
" I have the honor to be, with all possible regard and esteem,
gentlemen, " Your most obedient."
TO JOHN JAY*
New-York, 12th October, 1774.
Dear Sir :
I should have gratified your curiosity respecting the meetings
in the Fields immediately after I received your letter, but was then
prevented, and have been so, till you must have heard the particu
lars through a variety of channels. In short, they vanquished in
smoke, at least as to the subject which occasioned them, though
they produced several quarrels, in which young Sidney was led to
send challenges to Sears and Vandervoort, both of whom declined
the perils of cold iron. The General, however, to wipe off the
aspersion of cowardice, wantonly forced himself into a dispute with
a sturdy Hibernian captain, who gave him a very severe drubbing.
I did hear of a meeting at Rye, where some resolves were
passed expressive of a spirit of loyaJty and moderation ; however,
as I have not seen them, I do not know that they in any manner
recognized the authority of the British Parliament.
Capt. McDougal, upon his arrival from Philadelphia, alarmed
the good people here much, by the report of a probability that the
Congress will adopt an agreement of non- exportation of flaxseed.
By the pointed questions which were put to him by several of the
members, he says he is pretty sure such a measure will take place. V
The utility of such a measure is here greatly questioned, or rather flatly
denied. Mr. McD. also reports that Mr. Mifflin, one of the Penn
sylvania delegates, informed him that a non-importation was
already agreed upon, and that no goods would be suffered to be
landed after the 1st December.
The transports, with the troops, except the one that is to carry
the General, are already sailed out of the harbor.
We hear from Boston that the Provincial Congress at Concord
* Attending the Continental Congress at Philadelphia.

22 THELIFEOF
were to choose a Governor, and that Mr. Hancock was one of three
candidates for that office. How true this is, I know not. I would
send you some little squibs for your amusement, but that they are
not worth the postage.
"I am, dear sir, your friend, '
And most humble servant,
Peter Van Schaack. '
Before introducing to the reader the correspondence which fol
lows, and which throws light upon his political sentiments at this
interesting period, it will be proper to observe, that Henry Cruger,
Junior, was the brother-in-law of Mr. Van Schaack, who had mar
ried Mr. Cruger's sister. He was an American by birth, and his
connections resided in America. His sympathies were with the
..colonies, as were those of the inhabitants of Bristol, where he
resided and was engaged in mercantile business, and between
which city and the American colonies an extensive andadvan-i
tageous commerce had been carried on, which was interrupted by',
the public troubles. In 1774, Mr. Cruger was elected to repre-'
sent the city of Bristol in the English House of Commons. He was '
the colleague in that body of Edmund Burke, who was chosen a
representative for Bristol at the same time. His political principles
brought him into intimacy, also, with Charles James Fox, and he
was one of that "illustrious band of the champions of freedom^
who espoused. the American cause in the British Parliament*
Mr. John Vardill was a member of King's College at the same
time with Mr. Van Schaack, and they were intimate friends. He
was educated for the ministry, and about the first of January, 1774,
he embarked at New-York for England, for the purpose of taking
orders. On the death of Dr. Ogilvie, in that year, Mr. Vardill was
appointed his successor iii the church at New-York. He did not,
however, return from England. It is believed that he received
some employment from government. It is certain that he had
access to ministers, and that some of Mr. Van Schaack's letters to »
him, deprecating the measures of ministers, were shown to them.
* Mr. Cruger was twice re-elected to Parliament, and he was afterwards
chosen Mayor^ of Bristol. Some years after the peace, he removed to New-
York, where he resided until his decease a few years since.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 23
Unfortunately, the author has not been able to recover the letters
written by Mr. Van Schaack to Mr. Cruger while the latter was a
member of Parliament, but the rough drafts of some of his letters
to Mr. Vardill were found among his papers.
* TO JOHN VARDILL. New-York, Feb. 19th, 1774.
Dear Sir:
My engagements to an absent friend always carry with them
an indispensable obligation, and which in the present case can
be exceeded only by the pleasure arising from the performance.
Near two months have elapsed since you sailed, and yet not a single
opportunity has offered, the packet excepted, to enable me to give
you a specimen of my punctuality as a correspondent. The ship,
however, which I intend shall carry this letter, has nearly com
pleted her cargo, and I now begin a letter, which I shall keep open
for future occurrences till she sails.
Disposed as I am to contribute my mite towards answering
your expectations of utility from a correspondence with your
friends, in this quarter, I should most readily have entered upon
those political topics you recommended " to me, and which we
apprehended, before your departure, would have become im
portant from the measures of the colonies. But nothing of mo
ment has happened respecting the tea, since the exploit of our
eastern brethren. In Carolina, indeed, it has been sold, upon a
seizure for want of a regular entry at the custom-house, within the
limited time. Here, this has long almost ceased to be a subject of
conversation — the ship not being arrived, nor expected. It is said,
however, that if she does come, she is immediately to return.
We are anxious to hear in what light government, at home,
will take up our proceedings, especially those of the Bostonians.
The. opposition of the colonies is growing so powerful with their
increasing strength, that I believe the Parliament will begin to
think conciliatory methods the most eligible. The benefits arising
from our commerce is all Great Britain ought to expect. By
grasping at more, they will probably lose all. The absurdity of
uniting the idea of a right in the Americans to the liberties of
Englishmen, with that of a subordination to the British Parliament,

24 THELIFEOF
is every day growing more evident. This is a solecism. Claims
so incompatible cannot be reconciled ; on one side or other they
must be false. God forbid the major vis should be necessary to
decide the contest.
Equally invidious will be considered any exertions of the pre
rogative towards the people of America, which would be deemed
unconstitutional at home. It is upon this principle, that all the
Assemblies on the continent have, by spirited resolutions, declared
against the legality of the commission lately executed at Rhode
Island — a commission founded upon maxims indeed subversive of
those rights which are not to be controverted, and upon the perver
sion of a most excellent statute.
In Philadelphia, they have lately attacked the powers of the
Court of Vice Admiralty established there. Their objections to
this tribunal arise chiefly from these circumstances : 1. That the
judge's salary is derived, in the first instance, from the penalties
and forfeitures accruing from the condemnations in the courts of
vice admiralty, and, among the rest, in that in which himself pre
sides. 2. That it gives him cognizance of crimes which ought to
be tried by a jury, agreeable to the statute of Henry Eighth. 3,
That it gives him jurisdiction on civil contracts, which do not
properly belong to this court, which the common law, they say,
has always beheld with an eye of jealousy.
In North Carolina, a spirit of discontent is again prevailing in
the Assembly. From the Governor's speech to them, it appears
that they have called in question the legality of a court which he
had constituted for the trial of some criminals, and upon that prin
ciple, it seems they have refused making provision for the expense
attending it. This is a most extraordinary procedure indeed, if it
be rightly represented. If the constituting courts for the dispensa
tion of justice according to law, which excludes the idea of a power
to erect tribunals with new and unusual jurisdictions, belong not to
the prerogative, I do not know what does. I must refer you to the
papers for the particulars of this, and other matters vour curiosity
will make interesting to you. I shall concert a plan with Mr.
Laight to furnish you with all the papers if it be not already done.
Thus have I given you a little sketch of the most important
transactions on the continent, as they have been communicated to us

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 25
through the channels of the newspapers ; so far as they respect the
grand controversy with the country you are now in. I shall only
add, that here all is peace and tranquillity — the most perfect har
mony between the different branches of the legislature. I own,
when I compare the conduct of this colony with that of its neigh
bors, I cannot but determine much in favor of it. It is true we
have some folks, who, in the extravagance of liberty, have proved
exceptions to this observation; but the prevailing, characterizing
temper of the generality of the people here, is, I think, a spirit of
liberty untainted with licentiousness, and a subordination to govern
ment free from an abject submission to arbitrary power. Would
the spirit of our neighbors could entirely be assimilated !
Upon the whole, you will observe that new sources of contro
versy are opening every day, and the people of this country seem
determined to lop off every excrescence from the body politic.
Happy if they can stop at the true point, and in order to obtain
the fruit, if, like the savages of Louisiana, according to Montes
quieu, they do not cut down the tree.
The College-club goes on but heavily. Your worthy friend
Laight will inform you of the particulars.
And now how do you do ; what passage had you ; what parts
of England have you seen 1 Have you received your ordination as
yet 1 Have you preached 1 What stay do you make 1 Be minute
in your letter on these topics, or any others you like — on my punc
tuality you may depend. Be not afraid of egotisms, for every
thing which concerns you, will be interesting to your friends, and
to none more than to, dear sir,   
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK. London, April 5th, 1774.
My dear Sir :
A longer delay of writing to you I would account ungrateful
in myself. The friendship you always showed me at New- York,
and the civilities I met with at Bristol, by means of the kind letters
of Mr. Cruger, lay me under obligations which shall never be for
gotten. I shall rejoice at an opportunity of testifying this gratitude
by proper returns.
An exact narrative of my adventures, a description of this
4

26 THELIFEOF
metropolis, the manners of its inhabitants, &c, would in a great
measure be uninteresting,, and is a task which I cannot command, at
present, any time to execute. The hospitality of the gentlemen
here has exceeded my highest expectations, and the easy access to,
and courtesy of, men of eminence and literature, render London very
agreeable. Objects capable of improving the mind, and gratifying its
curiosity, meet you at every step. The numerous societies for dis
putation, for the cultivation of the arts and sciences, and for politi
cal and religious purposes, furnish an unending variety of amuse
ments, and constant sources of instruction. The free association of
persons of all orders at clubs, and the numerous coffee-houses, and
the openness and familiarity which prevail, give a contemplative
mind every hour some new matter for its advantage. Personages
of the greatest importance affect not that distance and magisterial
reserve, which is so common among those who can only preserve
their dignity by the mysterious appendages of greatness.
Your friend last week was admitted to the rank of Priest, and
hopes that his humble and zealous labors for the benefit of mankind,
will render him not unworthy of his office.
The politics of the day you will learn from the papers. Ad
ministration is determined to seize the present opportunity while
the nation and its neighbors are in tranquillity, to fix the relation of
America to the Mother country, and to adopt some measures which
may have a full and permanent tendency to confirm the dependence
of the colonies. You may be assured, whatever the papers may
say, that persons of all parties in government, or who have any
influence on its movements, are universally disposed to co-operate
in settling the dispute on a firm foundation, and in maintaining the
supremacy of Parliament. Such is the spirit of the nation, that an
opposition to your claims is necessary to acquire popularity. Should
the people of Boston make a forcible resistance to the late Bill,
you may depend on it, that the whole strength of England, if ne
cessary, will be exercised to punish them.
What are the measures which are intended for the furtherance of
the subordination of the colonies in general, have not yet transpired.
This only is certain, that every government will be modelled after
the form of that of New-York.
The Parliament will meet next week, and it will then be de-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 27
termined whether you are to send representatives from your several
colonies, to be governed in the manner of Ireland, or what, perhaps
themselves yet know not.
Your many instances of friendship convince me that I may
expect from you all that advice and assistance which may be useful
in my affairs. May I then- entreat you to write me a state of the
affairs of America, the temper of its inhabitants, what alterations
and improvements in the civil policy of the province you may
judge useful, and what plan of measures you conceive would please
the Americans, and remove future contentions. I desire, with the
utmost sincerity and warmth, to acknowledge my obligations to
Mr. Cruger and his respectable family, and am
Your unfeigned friend, John Vardlll.
P. S. Write me largely, speedily, and often, and you will find
me not remiss in cultivating so pleasing a correspondence.

TO REV. JOHN VARDILL.
New-York, May 13th, 1774.
My dear Sir :
Yesterday your long wished for letter was delivered me by
Captain Coupar, who had a remarkably short passage of twenty-
seven days from London. Nothing can be more agreeable than
those sentiments of friendship you express for me ; and my esteem
for you is so far from abating by absence, that I feel it every day
increasing. I should have gladly received from your descriptive pen, a par
ticular narrative of your adventures; but this, considering your
numerous correspondents in this quarter, is more than I have a
right to expect. I promised myself, however, many agreeable
hours' entertainment upon this subject, on your return. Imperfect
as my ideas are of the great metropolis you are in, I frequently
indulge my fancy, and in imagination accompany you in some of
the various scenes, whether of amusement or instruction, to which
you have such ready access. That great variety of objects calcu
lated to gratify the mind in every disposition of it, whether grave

28 THE LIFE OF
or gay, serious or ludicrous, whether of improvement or relaxation,
I can just form ideas of sufficient to make me lament their being
out of my reach.
The measures of government, so strongly indicating a determi
nation to establish the supremacy of Parliament over these colonies,
are truly alarming. When claims are so inconsistent, indeed, it
would be chimerical to expect a decision of them upon the princi
ples of reason merely. An appeal to the sword I am afraid is
inevitable, but palliating measures might have kept it off for a
long time. The mutual interests of both should have restrained
either from hastening the crisis, but I am afraid the die is cast.
Divis permittitur, ccetera !
We have no account of General Gage's being as yet arrived in
Boston, nor is it possible to form a conjecture what reception he
will meet with when he comes. On an event so singular and so
momentous, people have hardly recovered from their admiration ;
the temper of mind which will succeed it, cannot be guessed at
with any tolerable degree of probability.
As to any measures which would please the Americans, I own
I never yet heard such pointed out, to which the approbation
of the mother country could be expected. An absolute exemption
from Parliamentary taxation in every case whatever, is what the
colonies will never recede from. Indeed, if that is not their right,
they do not enjoy the privileges of British subjects. That it is
their right, is a concession we cannot expect from England, until
necessity shall compel them to it.
We are anxious to hear the ultimate resolutions of the cabinet
respecting the colonies. That they should all be modelled, in their
form of government, after that of New-York, would be a desirable,
measure, if means to effect it could be fallen upon, unexceptionable
in their nature. An American representation in Parliament, is a
plan which will never be agreed to. In all the resolutions of our
Assemblies, and of every association of the people, they have held
up the idea of the absurdity of such a measure, from our local situa
tion. Indeed, such a representation would be but a sound. An
officer in the nature of a viceroy, a parliament composed of dele
gates from the different colonies, a council with hereditary honors,
have been mentioned as the .only expedient of forming a regular

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 29
plan of government for, and of settling a lasting basis of mutual
friendship. To this American Parliament it is proposed that requisitions
should be made, and by them the different quotas and proportions
of the general expense ascertained, and these to be raised by the
Provincial Assembly of each colony. Perhaps such a scheme is
capable of improvement, but it is feared that jealousies would be
entertained of an officer clothed with such vast powers, and at such
a distance from the capital of the empire. Procul a Jove, procul a
Fulmine. I shall not make any apology for this long letter, though I am
sensible1 that a mere relation of facts would have been more useful
than those undigested sentiments I have ventured to throw out.
But, remember, you desired me to write long letters, and who can
be expected' to say any thing new to you, whose means of informa
tion have been so extensive and so Well improved, and whose tal
ents are sufficient to comprehend almost every subject as it were
intuitively 1
I heartily congratulate you, on your initiation into holy orders.
Retain your virtue and goodness of heart, my friend, and fear not
but you will be a valuable member of society. Never were great
abilities and an exemplary life in the clergy more necessary than
at present. Irreligion and deism are gaining ground here to a
great degree, and I cannot help anticipating the pleasure I shall
receive, from seeing the cause of Christianity supported by so able
an advocate as my friend Vardill.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK. London, July 22d, 1774.
Dear Sir :
I have just time to take up my pen, and acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of the eleventh of June, by Mr. Savage. I
had been some days in town from Oxford before I saw that gentle
man ; but hearing he had inquired for me, I waited on him at his
lodgings, and afterwards received your letter from him at the New-
York Coffee-house.
I have taken the liberty of communicating your sentiments on
American affairs to his Lordship, by reading one of your letters- to

30 THELIFEOF
him. He approved its good sense, and some of the opinions, but
denied the truth of one of your propositions,— that Americans, if
taxed without repres entation, enjoyed not the privileges of English
men, and were in a state of slavery. I did not presume to contra
dict him directly, but offered such arguments as I said would be
generally made use of in America. I wish, my dear friend, you
would exert your latent powers, and give me a detail of the state
of America, what terms would pacify their opposition, what alter
ations in their internal policy would be of advantage, and your
reflections on any collateral subjects. It may be of advantage to
you, by being a proof of your knowledge of American affairs.
You may be assured, I will employ any thing Of that sort to your
highest advantage, and hope, even when I return to New-York, to
have established such a correspondence here, as will be of advan
tage to my friends.
I am sorry that the shortness and disorder of my letters may give
you just cause to suspect me of having forgotten my promise of
correspondence. My future exactness and attention to you shall,
I flatter myself, free me from this imputation, and render me some
way deserving of your useful and entertaining letters. If you can
propose any thing for your advantage, in which it may lie in my
power to benefit you, with freedom communicate it, and you shall
find no person more faithful to your interests. I am sorry that,
though I have a thousand things to say to you, I must so soon
conclude this letter, with an assurance of my being
Your hearty and zealous friend, John Vardill.
from henry cruger, junior.
London, 6th Dec'r, 1774.
My dear Kinsman:
Here I am attending my duty in Parliament. Brickdale has
preferred his petition against Burke and me. The consideration
of it is deferred till after Christmas.
The King's speech, you will perceive, is flaming. The address
to it is made by the same fabricator. If I had time, I would say
more on both, having no doubt nor apprehensions that you would
publish my letter. I shall not oppose government for the sake

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 31
of opposition, but will join Lord North whenever I think him
right. Vardill I met by mere accident in the street; he breakfasted
with me, and is exceeding clever, but must, will be ministerial.
His abilities are found out : sub rosa — my opinion is, you'll never
see him in America again — verbum sat. He showed me your last
letter to him. I much admire some of the sentiments in it, and
shall let them off in, the House. You may rely upon it, I will
connect myself with none of the violent parties, but endeavor to
temper my fire with prudence. I go into the House with a good
character, except in the opinion of Lord North, whom somebody,
no friend of mine, has made believe I am all gunpowder. Before
the month is out, he and the whole House shall be undeceived, if a
moderate and a modest speech can effect it. I am not very well,
and unfortunately hurried more than ever I was in my life. Law
yers, members, petitioners, evidences, &c. &c. &c, drive me almost
mad. My love to my dear Bess, and to Harry and Cornelius, and all
friends, great and small, young and old. I wish it may ever be in
my power to convince you, by some most essential service, how
sincerely and affectionately I am, my dear sir,
Your faithful and most obedient humble servant, Hen. Cruger.
The author is unable to place before the reader the particular
letter from Mr. Van Schaack to Mr. Vardill, the sentiments of
which Mr. Cruger promised " to let off in the House." It was no
doubt distinguished for that dignified moderation which character-
terized his opinions and writings. The following speech delivered
by Mr. Cruger, ten days after the date of his letter, (and it was his
maiden speech in Parliament,) leaves us to infer what those senti
ments were :
"I rise, sir, to say a few words on this important subject, with
all the diffidence and awe which must strike the mind on a first
attempt to speak before so august an assembly. Had I remained
silent on this occasion, I must have condemned myself for seeming
to desert a cause which I think it my duty to espouse. I cannot

32 THELIFEOF
but be hdard with candor by Englishmen, when what I offer is dic
tated by a love to my country.
" I am far from approving all the proceedings in America.
Many of their measures have been a dishonor to their caused
Their rights might have been asserted without violence, and then*
claims stated with temper as well as firmness. But permit me to
say, sir, that if they have erred, it may be considered as a failing
of human nature. A people animated with a love of liberty, and
alarmed with apprehensions of its being in danger, will unavoidably
run into excesses ; the history of mankind -declares it in every page;
and Britons ought to view with an eye of tenderness acts of impru
dence to which their fellow-subjects in America may have been
hurried, not, as has been unkindly said, by a rebellious spirit, hut
by that generous spirit of freedom, which has often led their own
ancestors into indiscretions.
" Acts of severity are far from having a tendency to eradicate
jealousies; on the contrary, they must produce new fears, and
endanger that attachment and obedience which kindness and gen
tleness might have insured.
" No country has been more happy in its colonies than Great
Britain. Cemented by mutual interests, (till the era of the fatal
stamp act,) they flourished in an intercourse of amity, protection
and obedience, supporting and supported by each other. Before
that hated period, we meet with no instances of disobedience to
your laws, no denial of the jurisdiction of Parliament, no marks of
jealousy and discontent. They ever loved liberty ; their zeal for it
is coeval with their first emigration to America. They were per
secuted for it in this country; they sought a sanctuary in the
unexplored regions of that. They cleared their inhospitable wilds,
cultivated their lands, and poured the wealth which they derived
from agriculture and commerce, into the bosom of the mother
country. " You protected them in their infant state, and they returned it,
by confining to you the benefits of their trade. You regulated
their commerce for the advantage of this country, and they never
discovered an opposition, either to the authority or the exercise of
it. Are these evidences of a spirit of disaffection to Great Britain,
or ingratitude for its protection 1 Are they not rather proofs, that

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 33
if the same line of mild and lenient government had been pur
sued, the same cordiality and submission would have been con
tinued. " Every American who loves his country, must wish the pros
perity of Great Britain, and that their union may ever subsist unin
terrupted. If the parental trunk is injured, the branches must suf
fer with it. A subordination on the part of the colonies, is essential
to this union. I acknowledge, sir, that there must exist a power
somewhere to superintend and regulate the movements of the
whole, for the attainment and preservation of our common happi
ness : this supreme power can be justly and adequately exercised
only by the legislature of Great Britain. In this doctrine the co
lonies tacitly acquiesced, and were happy. England enjoyed by
it all the advantages of an exclusive trade. Why, then, strain
this authority so much as to render a submission to it impossible,
without a surrender of those liberties which are most valuable in
civil society, and were ever acknowledged the birthright of Eng
lishmen. When Great Britain derives from her colonies the most
ample supplies of wealth by her commerce, is it not absurd to
close up those channels, for the sake of a claim of imposing taxes,
which, (though a young member,) I will dare to say, never have,
and;probably never will defray the expense of collecting them 1
" The expediency of coercive measures is much insisted on by
some, who, I am sorry to say, seem to consider more the distress
into which they will involve the Americans, than the benefits they
can procure from such vindictive conduct to this country. Hu
manity, however, will prompt the generous mind to weep over
severities, though they may be even necessary ; and a prudent
statesman will reflect, that the colonies cannot suffer without in
jury to Great Britain. They are your customers ; they consume
your manufactures ; — by distressing them, if you do not drive them
to foreign markets, you will most assuredly disable them from
taking your commodities, and from making you returns for what
they have taken.
"Should coercive measures reduce them to an acknowledg
ment of the equity of Parliamentary taxation, what are the advan
tages which will result from it 1 Can it be thought that the Amer
icans will be dragooned into a conviction of this right 1 Will
5

34 THELIFEOF
severities increase their affection, and make them more desirous of
a connection with, and dependence on Great Britain 1
" Is it not, on the contrary, reasonable to conclude, that the
effect will be an increase of jealousy and discontent ; that they '
will seek all occasions of evading laws imposed on them by vio
lence ; that they will be restless under the yoke, and think them
selves happy under an opportunity of flying to the protection of
any other power, from the subjection of a mother, whom they con
sider cruel and vindictive ? ,
" I would not be understood, sir, to deny the good intentions
of administration. The abilities of the minister, it seems, are uni
versally acknowledged; but I must add, humanum est errare.
Though an American, I applaud his jealousy for the dignity of
Parliament, and think the impolicy and inexpediency of the late
measures may reasonably be imputed to the difficulty of the occa
sion, and the unsettled and undefined nature of the dependence of
the colonies on the mother country ; and, vice versa, candor must
admit the same apology for the violences and mistakes of America.
" But, since these measures have been found, by sad experi
ence, totally inadequate ; since they have widened the breach, in
stead of closing it ; diminished the obedience of the colonies, in
stead of confirming it ; increased the turbulence and opposition,
instead of allaying them ; it may be hoped, that a different plan
of conduct may be pursued, and some firm and liberal constitution
adopted by the wisdom of this House, which may secure the colo
nists in their liberties, while it maintains the just supremacy of
Parliament." Thus the sentiments of Peter Van Schaack, in opposition to
those obnoxious measures which led to the American revolution,
had an utterance, at this early period, through his friend Mr. Cru
ger, in the British House of Commons.
There is a studied moderation in the language of this speech*
which was in a great measure affected by Mr. Cruger, from a de
sire to produce the greater effect, and to procure a relaxation of
# Mr. Cruger's letters show him to have been a man of ardent tempera
ment, and of lofty patriotism, (as those who were acquainted with him
knew him to be.) Some of the speeches delivered by him subsequently were
highly animated and eloquent. See Appendix, B.

I I I

PETERVANSCHAACK. 35
the severe measures against the colonies. It was delivered, how
ever, in a most impressive and eloquent manner, as appears by the
following graphic description, contained in a letter written by Mr.
Vardill, from London, to Mr. Van Schaack.
" Mr. Cruger's fame has, I suppose, by this time reached his
native shore. His applause has been universally sounded in this
country. Administration applaud him for his moderation and
generosity ; opposition for the just line he has drawn, and all men
for his modesty and graceful delivery. His enemies are silenced
(for even he has his enemies) by the strongest confutation of their
charges against him, of illiberal invective against the people of
England ; — by his manly defence of his country, and honorable
approbation of its opponents, wherever he thought them justifiable.
"I was in the House on the debate. It was remarkably
crowded with members, and the galleries were filled with peers,
and persons of distinction. When Mr. C. rose, there was a sol
emn silence. He faltered a little at first, but as he proceeded, the
cry of ' Hear him,' ' Hear him,' animated him with resolution.
Flood, the Irish orator, sat behind me : he asked, ' Who is that?
who is that 1— a young speaker — whosoever he is he speaks more
eloquently than any man I have yet heard in the house.' I took
great pains to learn people's sentiments, and found them all in his
favor. Mr. Garrick, a few days after, in a dispute on the subject,
said, ' he never saw human nature more amiably displayed, than
in the modest address, pathos of affection for his country, and
graceful gesture, discovered by Mr. Cruger in his speech.' I am
thus particular, because you must be curious to know what recep
tion the first American member met with, in the most august as
sembly in Europe. My heart beat high with anxiety. I trem
bled when he rose, with the most awful and affecting jealousy for
the honor of my country. When ' Hear him,' ' Hear him,5 echoed
through the House, joy rushed through every vein, and I seemed
to glory in being a New-Yorker."
FROM HENRY CRUGER, JUNIOR.
London, 3d May, 1775.
My dear Sir :
I lately had the pleasure of writing you a long letter, in which

36 THELIFEOF
I owned the receipt of yours of 1st, 14th, and 18th February.
The last packet favored me with another obliging testimony of
/your remembrance and-regard. Continue, my dear kinsman, con
tinue writing to me ; though hurry in business will not permit me
to do so fully, and frequently to you. Your early advices maybe
of great importance and benefit to us both : mine to you can be of
but little consequence to -either. It will be no difficulty for Vardill
and me unitedly to get for you the reversion in the admiralty. Be
' sure to send us the first accounts of its vacancy ; at present, our
minds are so big with the mighty expectation of approaching
events, we can talk of nothing else ; our faculties seem benumbed
alternately by hope and fear. You shall not be neglected.
The opposition in the House of Commons flatter themselves
that the confusion in your country will overthrow the ministry in
this. But, my Peter ! you and my countrymen may believe me,
let them come in when they will, they must adopt, and they know
it, nearly the same measures with America that have been pursued
by the present administration, or they cannot hold their places a
single session. To get in is what we all want, and patriots in one
station are great tyrants in another. America has long been made
a cat's paw ; on the ground of their calamity, we fight our ambitious
quarrels. And, let who will gain the victory, whether the ins or
the outs, New-York will not be sixpence the gainer. These are
recent discoveries, which nothing but experience could afford
me. f>
Of politics, I hate any longer to write ; we all wish the Amer
ican disputes were amicably terminated. No minister would ever
touch you again : they ardently wish to be out of this scrape ; hut
will with fire and sword go through with it. The people here
think the Americans (especially the Congress) have treated Eng
land with much indignity, and ill usage; it makes them angry.
My health is but so so. I long to get into the country, but my
Bristol friends entreat me not to quit the ground till Parliament is
prorogued,; ergo there are but scanty hopes of our meeting in New-
York this summer. All through the winter, I have been gloriously
worked— and often ill— now and then wished to make my exit for
the glory of having inscribed on my tomb—" dulce et decorum est,
pro patriq mori." -

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 37
Love to my dear Betsey, and the little ones, Compliments to
your worthy family and all friends. I remain, with much sincere
regard, dear sir, f Your affectionate H. Cruger.
TO COL. JOHN MAUNSELL. New-York, 1th May, 1775.
My dear Sir :
Since you sailed, nothing material has happened here, except
the arrival of the delegates from the eastward, on their way to
Philadelphia. High honors were paid to them, on their entrance,
and during their stay here. They have represented the unhappy
affair in the Massachusetts, in a way most unfavorable to the king's
army, charging the soldiery with the most unexampled cruelties.
In a letter from Gen. Gage to the Lieut. Governor, a representation
totally opposite to it is given. Prudence restr?& i one from giving
any opinion on the fact, but the melancholy coi )quences are but
too obvious.
In my apprehension, the whole dispute between the mother coun
try and us is now reducible to two points. From the favorable
declarations which, it is said, have been lately received from Lord
Dartmouth, a nobleman who has the character of possessing many
valuable qualities, it seems evident that the article of Parliamentary
taxation is intended to be given up. The only question is, shall it
be necessary for the colonies previously to stipulate for a specific
sum disposable by Parliament, either towards an alleviation of the
national debt or the general contingent expense of the empire, or
shall this be left at large, upon the assurance of the colonies of
their readiness to make adequate supplies, upon emergencies occa
sionally, and pro re nata 1 This is the first ground of dispute ; the
second is, the acts relating to the Massachusetts Bay.
Permit me to give you the following unconnected thoughts on
this subject. The article of right is almost out of the question, it
turns altogether upon general expedience, and policy ; for refined
principles of government, applied to a case so peculiar, can have
very little weight, when there is no common umpire to appeal to,
when those who are to judge on both sides are parties, and when

33 THELIFEOF
those parties are also the multitude. The opinion of the colonies
is fixed. There are respectable individuals who think we ought to
stipulate for a perpetual revenue, but the general current is the
other way— and I think the better opinion is, that when the colo
nies are restored to their wonted good humor, they will occasionally
contribute more largely than they would now (should they he
compelled) stipulate for. It appears to me, therefore, that this
unhappy contest, so serious in its consequences, is maintained upon
no better ground than a mere chimera, — vox et preeterea nihil.
With respect to the Massachusetts Bay : theirs is considered
as a common cause, and therefore no peace can be established, till
the acts relative to them are repealed ; unless Parliament would
hold out such a constitution for the colonies as they should in gen
eral think proper to adopt, and then, although it should fall short
of some of their old charter privileges, a restoration of them would
perhaps not be insisted on. Upon the whole, there are doubtless
errors on both sides ; but a wise government will disarm itself of
resentment and recrimination. A conflict between the different
members of the same body politic, is too serious to be upheld for
the sake of a punctilio. What good consequences will arise to the
mother country even should her arms prove successful 1 what mise
ries may follow the want of success on the part of Great Britain in
this contest, and what are the degrees of probability in favor of
either event 1 are questions which require very serious considera
tion. If on this side of the Atlantic, we do not sufficiently weigh
them, let not administration pursue the same error.
My mind is distressed with the gloomy prospect of my country,
Such a spirit of anarchy and disregard of the powers of government
may prevail, as may prevent us from soon returning to the old
channel, and that affection which is the bond of our common union
with the mother country, may perhaps forever be destroyed. I
forbear pursuing this subject, but till the stamp act, we knew not
what a contempt of government, or the appearance of a want of
attachment to the parent state, was. That certainly was a meri
torious opposition, and if the present heats are condemned, let it
be remembered, that the petitions of the colonies to Parliament
since that period have been treated in a manner which they think
affords no hope from such a constitutional mode of application for
redress.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 39
The Congress will meet under the influence of a warm resent
ment, for the severities committed against their brethren in the east
ern colonies; what line of conduct they will pursue, is not
conjectured upon any rational foundation ; but whatever they
recommend, will have the force of more than law.
You will see the reception which has been given to the resolu
tion of the House of Commons of the 20th February, by the
General Assembly of Pennsylvania. To be plain, people suspect
there is some latent mischief in every thing proposed by adminis
tration. Timeo Banaos et donaferentes. In the present case, all
is submitted to the Congress.
The tide of popularity runs strong against the proceedings of
our house of Assembly, for their singularity. I flatter myself,
however, they will be productive of good as they have pursued
exactly the mode in which ministry declared they would treat
with us. Should their petitions be disregarded at home, the popu
lar censure will be increased. But, whatever benefits arise from
them, will, I hope, be general ; for we cannot, people will not,
receive partial favors in this time of general calamity. Our
Assembly, I am confident, had no such aim, and they generously
meant, by their proceedings, to subserve the common cause.

FROM COL. JOHN MAUNSELL. London, 5th July, 1775.
Many thanks, dear sir, for your friendly and very sensible
letter of the 7th May. It contained the language of a real patriot,
and a friend of both countries. So much pleased was I with it,
that I laid it before several great personages here, who, while they
admired your style, and your feelings, seemed to reprobate your
doctrine. The language, my friend, of a Cicero, can neither alter
the measures adopted by government, at this critical time, nor the
fixed opinions of the many, on the supremacy of this country over
its external dominions, which it has so long uncontrovertedly exer
cised. Amongst those with whom I conversed, I never discovered
the least idea of either enslaving the colonies, or wishing to see
the colonists in a worse state than the subjects of the crown residing
in this Island.

40 THELIFEOF
You will naturally expect that I should say something of the
intentions of Great Britain on the present unhappy dispute ; to be
honest, I know not what is the plan of operations relative to
America; but this I can assure, that the voice of the multitude is
for spirited measures.
Before my arrival, the troops had sailed for their destination,
the Parliament prorogued, addressing his Majesty, (before their
departure,) by their speaker, in a very warm and spirited manner,
on the American topic. You must know that the ministers are
but the executive powers of the national senate ; any retrograde
step on their part would be destructive to them ; they must follow
the dictates of Parliament. Under this circumstance, what can a
few men do 1 The union and operation of the colonists, are well
known here, from your public prints, and are authenticated from
various incidents. Any report now on American affairs, is of little
avail. The die is cast.
Such unhappy accounts daily arrive from your side the Atlantic,
as really injure the colonists, in the eyes of even moderate men. The
midnight attack on Dr. Cooper is laid before the public in
highly finished colors; — Rivington's, in the same manner;*
and the necessary flight of Chandler, Cook, Kerney and others,
compose part of the catalogue ; painful stories to relate, when con
trasted with the freedom of speech in this kingdom. The advocates
for America here, speak their mind without fear — even collections
are made for a people fighting against their sons.
It is a duty I owe the country I have voluntarily chosen for my
residence, to relate freely what I hear every day that nearly con
cerns it. What I relate to you, depend on it, is what I hear. I
shall naught extenuate. Happy had it been for both countries, if
undisguised truths had been told on both sides the Atlantic. On
this side, there are a set of men who do not oppose government on
any principle, and would deluge both countries in blood, for the
purpose of gratifying their private purposes. How painful is it to
a benevolent heart, to find a generous people impelled on by false
reports. It is confidently said, that a native of New-York, who
* For an account of the assault on Rivington's printing office, see Sparks'
Life of Gouverneur Morris, Vol. I. p. 66.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 41
has resided in this city some time past, made it his business to pick
up paragraphs of letters from New- York, and, mutilating them, sent
them back, to serve the purpose of local politics, and injure the
reputation of respectable men. Shameful office !
We see, in a Connecticut paper, General Gage's letter to Gov
ernor Trumbull — a fair opening to settle the present dispute by
negotiation. I understand it is lost — unhappy event. Why will
not the friends to humanity, and lovers of their country, exert
themselves, in the noble work of healing the wound by palliatives
before it becomes incurable. Depend on it, though the die is cast in
regard to the destination of the troops, Britain will with open arms
receive the Americans, on equal and friendly ground. She will
not be outdone in generosity. Generous terms will be granted,
when demanded constitutionally. The worn out story of petitions
being neglected, has produced the unhappy alternative of force.
Let the Congress, on the part of the people, try the effect of a
dutiful petition.
I wish not to see America lose a particle of its right, but I
wish to see that right supported with temper, and, you may depend
on it, they will have every thing their sovereign can give, consis
tent with his dignity and the constitution. When this unnatural
dispute is ended, (for it must have an end,) if the day is protracted
and unhappy consequences attend it, the first cause of quarrel
will be entirely forgotten on both sides, and peace restored ade
quate to the success of the victorious. Before that season is lost,
let not the original demand be put into so precarious a situation.
The event of war is uncertain. I will give the inhabitants of
Massachusetts Bay credit for every advantage they possess, as to
bravery, &c, &c. Should brave men be lost, when what they
contend for can be obtained otherwise, and when affection can be
preserved betweeen the parent and her children 1
The conciliatory resolution of Lord North opens a ground for
treaty. This motion sets aside all objections to parliamentary, tax
ation. You know many of the colony legislatures confessed a
willingness to grant, by way of requisition, supplies for the defence
of the British empire ; I understand this motion was made to settle
the dispute on that principle. Be assured, it is not the quantum
Great Britain contends for. Surely, each colony must be the most
6

42 THELIFEOF
competent judge of its own internal abilities. Had Great Britain
reserved to herself the right of determining the proportion in which
they should severally contribute, it must have been liable to the
strongest objections. She might undesignedly be guilty of an une
qual distribution of the quotas; but enough on the merits of the
dispute. I have not considered it well enough, to enlarge more on this
interesting subject ; but this is the language here, and you must
take notice, my letter is intended to convey only the talk of this
city. You may depend on it, that there is the greatest unanimity
amongst all ranks of people. England was never in a more flour
ishing state — new doors opened to commerce ; manufacturers fully
employed ;, stocks as high as before the dispute.
We continually hear of unkind treatment given to many re
spectable inhabitants, for their political opinions. This gives me
much pain ; it can never settle the dispute, but injure the reputation
of those who are guilty of it. I wish it could be put an end to.
It certainly will irritate the people here against the Americans.
On the whole, be assured America has not a better friend than
I am to it. So dangerous is it to give an opinion publicly here,
that I say little, for fear my words may be misconstrued. What I
do say, is on the side of America, as consistently as I can with the
nature of the dispute.
Harry Cruger is at my side. He has a great desire to pay
, New-York a visit, but that is impossible. Affairs here are so cir
cumstanced that he cannot stir. Bristol will not part with one of
its representatives. I fear years must roll over his head, before he
sees that place.
Pray excuse incorrectnesses in this letter. The unhappy situa
tion of American affairs so embarrasses my mind, that I really am
•unfit to take pen in hand. Pray desire Mrs. Maunsell to direct to
me at Mr. Augustine Mead's, merchant, No. 6, New Buildings,
Coleman-street, London. I hope to hear from you, directed to
that place. Adieu, my dear sir ; may the olive once more spi
its branches over your western world, is in the sincere wish of,
* , Dear sir, sincerely yours, John Maunsell.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 43
FROM HENRY CRUGER, JUNIOR.
Bristol, 11th June, 1775.
Dear Sir :
Your agreeable favor of 3d May, Colonel Maunsell delivered to
me. I am deeply afflicted by the troubles, and impending ruin of
my native country. I contend day and night for the propriety and
virtue of your conduct. My behavior everywhere evinces that
nothing on earth is, or ought to be, so dear to us as our native
country. In my public speeches, I have affected the greatest mod
eration, in order to secure the attention of the audience ; nothing
else would, after the publication of a letter in the Philadelphia
paper last winter, which you may remember was ascribed to me.
You tell me I do not write on the subject of public matters so
freely now, as I did before I was a senator. True, but my reserve
doth not proceed from my being a member of Parliament. Letters
are often opened .by rascals ; this is one check. The disagreeable-
ness of the subject is another ; its being worn out, is a third. My
dear sir, you may believe me when I assure you, that the severe
measures resolved on by the legislature of this country made my
very soul yearn. I have talked, and reasoned, and prayed —
prophesied, deprecated, and rued ; but all to no purpose. The an
swer always was, that England would neither be intimidated by,
nor receive laws from America ; that if you were the subjects of
England, and upon every danger expected protection, you ought to
be subordinate to her laws. After saying all that could be said
upon the subject, the dispute remains just where it did.
My partiality to my native country is too conspicuous upon all
occasions, to be doubted ; but lately it hath discovered itself even
in violence. I shall remain, to my dying day, America's fast and
unalterable friend. I begrudge no pains nor expense to serve your
cause, and if my life was to be laid down to preserve your rights
and liberties, I should not think the purchase too dear.
I would give a great deal just now to be in the secrets of the
privy council, to know how the last unfavorable accounts from
Boston operate ; but that knowledge is communicated only to the
particular connections of the ministry; with whom, God be praised,
I hold not the least intercourse. During the sessions of Parliament,

44 THE LIFE OF
I now and then contrived to get amongst some of them, in hopes
of at length being able, by repeated conversations, to abate their
rigor ; but as it proved all in vain, I have long since washed my
hands from all manner of correspondence with them ; of course
remain an utter stranger to all their future schemes.
I am momently expecting the arrival of my father. His
presence here will yield me infinite happiness ; and every thing that
a son can or ought to do, to make a father comfortable, he will be
sure to experience from my warm affection. Would to Heaven all
my friends and connections had come with him, for now it will
be many years before I can possibly come among them.
My debts in your city are immense. Do, my dear kinsman,
exert yourself to secure what you can for me. The beneficial
services I have rendered my country, and my constant attention to
its welfare, require the strictest justice at the hands of my country
men. Inclosed is a sketch of my debtors' names for your govern
ment. Isaac Sears has wrote us, that he will not remit any more
until the disturbances are at an end. Is this justice, Heaven !
My love to my dear sister and your little ones ; and believe me
as sincere, good and affectionate a friend as any you have on earth.
May God bless you !
Hen. Cruger.

FROM HENRY CRUGER, JUNIOR.
London, 2d Aug't, 1775.
My dear Sir:
I received with pleasure your last of 16th and 17th June, and
gave the one inclosed to V— 1. For a fortnight past I have been
ill, but am getting better.
I am sorry for the frenzy of my countrymen. To wrest and
torture the only construction that could be put upon my letter per
Col. Skene into any sense inimical to the liberties of America, is
strange indeed ! True, it said many fulsome, perhaps ironical, things
in favor of a vain, weak man, who, out of his own mouth, requested
me to write the nonsense I did. He told me it would give him con
sequence in New-York ; and, without once reflecting how far he was
a friend or a foe to any particular cause, I readily obliged him.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 45
No, no, my kinsman ! I am not America's enemy, or should
not moan as I do, for the calamities that over her head are yet
impending. They only are your greatest enemies who continue to
deceive you ; who, in spite of their own internal conviction, per
sist in assuring you the English nation is on your side. In short,
unless peace be made, all America, I dread, will next year wofully
experience the most damning proofs of their mistake. A contrary
account might be more flattering and pleasing ; but I choose rather
to give you the truth, though the warm zealots in the cause of
liberty it offend.* On this solemn occasion, I speak fact for the
best. To my inmost bosom I appeal, and safely say, " hie murus
aheneus esto — nil conscire sibi, nulla pallescere culpa."
I am extremely sorry for the illness of poor Cornelius. I hope
he may recover. He is too fine a boy to lose. How is my favorite
and namesake honest Hall I long to send them some fresh
memorial of my love. As that is prohibited, they must for the
present be content in knowing they possess it most amply, and so
does my dearest sister Betsey. My best respects and love attend
all your worthy family up the North River. Adieu !
Yours, affectionately, H. C.

FROM REV. JOHN VARDILL. London, June 20, 1775.
My dear Sir :
Your letters of the 4th and 6th of May, are sad pictures of the
miserable state of my native country. I sympathize with you in
your sorrow, and weep with you over the calamities of civil war.
What is the method to close the door of contention 1 This is
the question which every man asks of his neighbors.
Will the Americans be satisfied with a suspension of the exer
cise of taxation 1 Will they consent to the laws of trade, as enacted
by a competent authority in the British legislature 1 Would they
wish to be governed by their Colonial Assemblies ? or by a Gen-
* N. B. I do not mean to influence the conduct of my countrymen — only
to give you the best information. This surely is inoffensive. I think it right
you should know that the people here do not so sanguinely co-operate with
you as you could wish.

46 THELIFEOF
eral Congress ? In what part of the state, is the power of com
pelling to their duty refractory and delinquent colonies to be
vested 1 If you prefer the mode of requisition, is the sum, and the
appropriation of it, to be left to the King 1 or to your own Assem
blies 1 or to Parliament 1 What degree of subordination do you
think your duty 1 or do you claim to stand in the same relation to
the King, as the Parliament of Great Britain itself?
These are difficulties with me, which you can best answer in
America. Every man who arrives from the colonies has a different
plan, which alone can succeed.
The late intelligence from America has not, as far as I. can
learn, altered the plan of Government. The nation will not suffer
a man to continue minister who falters ; the moment he retreats, he
falls. I cannot find a man who wishes to see you enslaved, to con
tribute more money, or have less liberties than Englishmen. All
they wish, is, that you will advance to a friendly settlement, and
consent to the operation of that supreme power, which necessity
makes lawful.
May Heaven avert a contest, which can produce good to nei
ther of the parties, and which the highest human wisdom seems
incapable of settling to the content and satisfaction of both
countries. From the accounts which we received last from America, it
appeared that you are all united in the dispute, and that military
preparations were everywhere forming. This looks as if you
intended to try your strength with Great Britain. If you depend
much on assistance from this country, or any foreign powers, you
will be deceived. It has been the interest of party, to push matters
against the ministry, in hopes that the difficulty of the case would
oblige them to resign. The common danger will force both into
union. France and Spain are disposed to lend assistance to Great
Britain, and not to you. This last, I have the most authentic
intelligence of.
But let me drop the subject, which is a source of too much
melancholy. I fear it will be long ere peace is restored to your
once happy country. It will be long ere you and I renew those
social and temperate pleasures, which we once enjoyed together.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 47
Wherever you are, may content smooth your pillow, and shed
cheerfulness around your board, and may you never forget
Your affectionate friend,
John Vardill.
This correspondence shows very conclusively, that Mr. Van
Schaack condemned those measures of the British government,
which led to the Revolution.
The committee of fifty-one, as has been remarked, was dissolved
in November, 1774. It was succeeded by a committee of sixty
persons, chosen by the " freeholders and freemen" of the city of
New-York, at a public meeting held at the City Hall on the twenty-
second day of November, and styled "The Committee for carrying
into execution the association entered into by the Continental Con
gress." Mr. Van Schaack was chosen a member of the committee
of sixty also. What part he took in the proceedings of the latter
committee the author is uninformed, and no record appears to have
been kept of their doings. He is known to have been friendly to
the measures of non-importation, and non-consumption, and he was
in favor of all peaceful remedies to procure a redress of grievances.

48 THELIFEOF

CHAPTER III.
On the thirteenth of May, 1775, Mr. Van Schaack parted with
his respected father-in-law, who embarked, at this time, at New-
York for England, in the hope of obtaining some relief, at the
watering places in that country, from a painful disease which
threatened his life, and rendered it improbable that he would ever
rejoin hiskindred and friends in America.*
In the course of about four years previous to this date, the sub
ject of this sketch had been deprived, by death, of four children,
who died in their infancy. In July of this year, his oldest son,
Cornelius, a remarkably promising child in his ninth year, died at
-Kinderhook, whither he had been taken in May previous; and
while the afflicted parents were daily expecting their youngest
child with its nurse from New-York, the sloop arrived, with the
melancholy tidings of his death two days after the interment of the
other. The following reflections were suggested to his mind on
this occasion.
" July, 1775. Upon the death of two of my children within a
few days of each other."
" There never was any system since the creation, which affords
any ground of consolation under the distresses of life, except the
Christian religion. By this, the doctrine of a future state is clearly
revealed, and as we may deduce from natural religion, that the
justice and mercy of God will adjust all the seeming inequalities
of his providence ; so we are confirmed in it, by revelation. From
r hence we learn this consoling truth, that this life is but a state of
probation, in which we have it in our power to obtain the assist-
~ Mr. Cruger died at Bristol, 5th February, 1780 ; and his body was interred
in the cathedral in that city.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 49
ance of God's Holy Spirit, whereby we may secure to ourselves
the benefit of the redemption of Jesus Christ, in a happy immortality.
" A due consideration of the transitory nature of this life, and of
the importance of eternity, should prevent us from overvaluing the
one, or neglecting the other. Mere reflection perhaps would not
give these sentiments their due impression, but in the hour of dis
tress, upon the loss of a friend we love — upon the loss of the child
of our tenderest affections ! — they will not fail of striking the mind
with the utmost force.
" There cannot be a stronger internal evidence of the truth of
Christianity, than that it alone affords us relief, on those trying
occasions which we are daily subject to. Would God suffer his
creatures to be distressed, without its answering any good purpose ;
or without its bearing any relation to any of the other parts of the
great whole over which his providence presides 1 Without the
certainty of a future state, we should be unhappy upon every
misfortune. What could console upon the dissolution of the most
endearing, and tenderest connections ? Reason, aided by the most
refined philosophy, in vain would speak peace to the troubled
breast. Apathy and insensibility would be the only remedies they
could prescribe.
" But Christianity, the religion of Heaven, arms us against the
terrors of death. In her mild eye, it is but a transition to a better
state, wherein we shall be released from the present vicissitudes of
fortune, and taste the purest happiness.
" Shall we then repine at the well prepared death of those
we love 1 God forbid ! Death is gain ; — it is cruelty, to wish to
retain them in a state where bodily pains and distress of mind are
the certain portions of the most fortunate. But, above all, the death
of a child should rather excite gratitude than grief. As no idea of
criminality can be supposed without consciousness of error, and the
possession of that share of reason which can distinguish the rules
of right and wrong, we have here the fullest conviction of the be
atitude of the objects of our love. Instead of wading through the
miseries of a sinful world, without danger from the numerous temp
tations which surround us, they obtain the signal blessing of a happy
eternity, without undergoing the pains and distress which ever
accompany more advanced life. 7

50 THELIFEOF
" If these reflections satisfy notour minds for the loss we sustain,
let us count this perverseness our infirmity, and endeavor to bring
ourselves to a juster way of thinking.
" Does our grief proceed from regard to the deceased 1 it is mis
placed ; and we are assured that death seals their happiness. Does
it arise from regret on our own account? it is selfishness— it is
want of friendship to those we love — it is wishing to promote our
own temporary pleasure, at the expense of pain and anxiety in the
objects of our love ; perhaps to the endangering their eternal
happiness. " The benefits to ourselves, too, of such events, if well improved,
are great ; they will fix the attention upon the most important of
all considerations ; they will lead the mind to an enlarged consider
ation of the amazing dispensations of Divine Providence. Let us
embrace the occasions, therefore, as friendly admonitions of God to
excite us to our duty ; let us improve them as the strongest calls
of divine goodness to warn us against persevering in error.
" Let us acquire a thorough conviction of the superintending
providence of God ; let us be assured that his dispensations are
' directed solely for our ultimate good ; duty and regard for our own,
welfare, rightly understood, will then both concur in us a perfect
resignation to every calamity ; we shall receive the friendly stroke
as the chastisement of love, and we shall attain an affiance in
God which will afford us that contentment and peace of mind,
which the world can neither give nor take away.
" It should be the subject of every day's reflection, how weak, or
how impious it is to repine at the events of life. On such occasions)
the following topics will, if properly considered, afford us relief. That
the Almighty governs the affairs of the world by his superintending
providence — that as he is a God of unerring wisdom, so his goodness
extends to all the children of men. That with wisdom to see, with
goodness to direct, and power to execute whatever is best, we may
safely rely that whatever is, is right, relatively to the whole. That
we are incompetent judges of the ways of Providence ; not seeing
the whole chain of things, we mistake good for evil, and evil for
good ;— the result of all which will be, that though we cannot un
riddle, we shall learn to trust.
" But if this indulgence of our grief is highly blameworthy, an

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 51
attempt to drown it in dissipation, is still more criminal. The unbe
liever, whose views are bounded by this precarious life, may have
recourse to it to banish reflection, in order to avert his present misery ;
but it is the glorious prerogative of Christianity, that the more we
exercise our reflection, and the more intensely we employ our
minds, so much the more ample shall we find that source of conso
lation to be which it affords. Can a rational mind, then, hesitate
about the choice ?
" Upon the whole, as prayer is the means by which we are di
rected, by the words of inspiration, to apply in all our wants, so
let us on these occasions devoutly implore of Almighty God,
through the merits of Jesus Christ, for such divine aids as will en
able us to sustain these trying visitations with a humble and sub
missive resignation to all the dispensations of Providence ; and let
us embrace these friendly calls, and improve them to the edification
of our minds, and the due regulation of our passions and affec
tions." In May of this year, Mr. Van Schaack removed his family to
Kinderhook ; and he did not afterwards return to the city to reside.
The ill health of some of his family was the immediate cause of
his going into the country at this time. His eldest child (whose
subsequent death has been mentioned) was alarmingly indisposed.
Mrs. Van Schaack's health was but indifferent, and her feelings
had been recently severely tried by the solemn parting with her father,
whom she never afterwards saw ; and his own health and impaired
vision required relaxation. In connection with these circumstances,
also, it is not improbable that the threatening aspect of public
affairs, and which the recent shedding of American blood at Lex
ington had rendered more alarming, may have had its influence on
his sensitive mind. But if public considerations did not affect his
removal to the country, the situation of the city of New-York soon
became such as to render a return to it not very desirable.*
* The delegates from Albany county to the Provincial Congress in
session at New- York, wrote under date of 3d October, 1775 : " This once gay,
opulent and flourishing city, now, comparatively speaking, appears to be a
town of desolation."

52, THELIFEOF

FROM JOHN H. CRUGER.
New-York, June 21th, 1775.
Dear Sir : .
This goes by Capt. Goes, who has charge of the pipe of Ma
deira wine I send you. I hope you are well up, and in a state of
more tranquillity than you would have been here. My love to
Betsey, and best wishes for her happiness and yours.
Monday's paper will show you all we know of the melancholy
situation of affairs to the eastward. On Sunday we had landed in
our city, amidst the rattling of drums, and display of colors, Gover
nor Tryon, (as you may guess how,) and the Generals Washington,
Lee, and|Schuyler, who yesterday afternoon moved off with a pomp,
magnificence and grandeur becoming the importance of the cause,
in which, for the liberties of America, they are embarked. God
grant us peace, a restoration of our liberties, and a good constitu
tion. Farewell. Yours, affectionately,
J. H. Cruger.

FROM THE SAME.
New-York, October 18, 1775,
Dear Sir :
As you intended when you left us, so I expected, that you
would have been down to the court ; but as we must now return
you for this term non est, I send you inclosed the last letters from
England, which sooner you should have had but for the above rea
son. To-morrow's newspaper will show you a correspondence
since Friday last, between the Governor and the Mayor, and his
worship and the committee, which is exceeding polite and affec
tionate ; the result will prove, it is supposed, the Governor's em
barkation on board the Asia.
No arrivals from England of late, leave us without news from
that quarter. It is on the northern quarter that our eyes are now
fixed for something important. The timid, the cautious, the judi
cious, or the prudent, call them by which name you will, are
removing their effects again out of town. It is said troops are
expected — trouble of course. If the Governor and government

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 53
officers are taken into custody, Captain Vandeput demands them ;
the consequence of a denial will be attended with disagreeable
circumstances, the effects of new orders. Thus you see, my good
sir, our situation is not a bit pleasanter, or more eligible, than
when you 1 eft us, and, in my humble opinion, no dawn of better times.
All friends here are well. Present my compliments to your
brother David, and believe me to be very much, dear sir,
Your affectionate, humble servant,
Jno. Harris Cruger.
FROM FREDERICK RHINELANDER.
New-York, 23d February, 1776.
Dear Sir :
At my return from Philadelphia, I had the happiness to receive
your long letter. As I am to consider it as an answer to mine of
six and a half lines, I am the more obliged to you for its contents.
I forbear to mention the distressed state of this once happy city.
Though General Lee has every thing to recommend him as a gen
eral, yet I think he was out of luck when he ordered the removal
of the guns from the Battery; as it was without the approbation, or
knowledge, of our Congress, consequently the inhabitants were
unprepared for so melancholy an event. The inclemency of the
weather heightened our distress. The wind, too, was so high that
the rivers could not be crossed but with the utmost hazard. Samuel
Bayard was made prisoner. The secretary's office is removed to
Nicholas Bayard's, where Samuel is yet under a guard. Mr. Stevens
is made a prisoner by the New-England troops, and sent to Hart
ford. A flag was sent on board the Asia, with a proposal to
exchange Stevens for a New-England officer taken by the Asia
last summer ; no answer has been sent. General Clinton is gone
to the southward ; it is said he expects to be joined by seven thou
sand troops from the other side the water.
General Lee is taking every necessary step to fortify and
defend this city. The men-of-war are gone out of our harbor;
the Phoenix is at the Hook ; the Asia lays near Bedlow's Island ;
so that we are now in a state of perfect peace and security, was it
not for.our apprehensions of future danger. To see the vast number
of houses shut up, one would think the city almost evacuated.

54 THELIFEOF
Women and children are scarcely to be seen in the streets. Troops.
are daily coming in; they break open and quarter themselves in
any houses they find shut up. Necessity knows no law. Private
interest must give way to the public good. Mr. Jacob Walton
was ordered to remove and give up his house, which is now occu
pied by the soldiers. I have not moved an article out of town yet,
though I have taken a house for my family, at a place called Para-
mus. The speaker has desired me to get a place for him in the
same neighborhood. I think it will be out of the route of the
army. We are going to raise a new battalion ; Colonels Lasher and
Gouverneur Morris are candidates for the command. As both the
gentlemen have great merit, it is hard to tell which will succeed.
General Lee is ordered to take the command at Canada ; Gen
eral Schuyler to command at New-York. Yours, &c.
Frederick Rhinelandek.
The winter of 1776 found Mr. Van Schaack still at his native
village, meditating upon the distracted state of his country.
" January, 1776, at Kinderhook.
"The only foundation of all legitimate governments, is cer
tainly a compact between the rulers and the people, containing
mutual conditions, and equally obligatory on both the contracting
parties. No question can therefore exist, at this enlightened day,
about the lawfulness of resistance, in cases of gross and palpable
infractions on the part of the governing power. It is impossible,
however, clearly to ascertain every case which shall effect a disso
lution of this contract ; for these, though always tacitly implied,
are never expressly declared, in any form of government.
" As a man is bound by the sacred ties of conscience, to yield
obedience to every act of the legislature so long as the government
exists, so, on the other hand, he owes it to the cause of liberty, to
resist the invasion of those rights, which, being inherent and una
lienable, could not be surrendered at the institution of the civil
society of which he is a member. In times of civil commotions,
therefore, an investigation of those rights, which will necessarily

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 55
infer an inquiry into the nature of government, becomes the indis
pensable duty of every man.
" There are perhaps few questions relating to government of
more difficulty, than that at present subsisting between Great Brit
ain and the Colonies. It originated about the degree of subordina
tion we owed to the British Parliament, but by a rapid progress, it
seems now to be whether we are members of the empire or not.
In this view, the principles of Mr. Locke and other advocates for the
rights of mankind, are little to the purpose. His treatise throughout
presupposes rulers and subjects of the same state, and upon a sup
position that we are members of the empire, his reasonings, if not
inapplicable, will be found rather to militate against our claims; for
he holds the necessity of a supreme power, and the necessary exist
ence of one legislature only in every society, in the strongest
terms. " Here arises the doubt : if we are parts of the same state, we
cannot complain of a usurpation, unless in a qualified sense, but we
must found our resistance upon an undue and oppressive exercise of
a power we recognize. In short, our reasonings must resolve into
one or the other of the following three grounds, and our right of
resistance must be founded upon either the first or third of them ;
for either, first, we owe no obedience to any acts of Parliament ; or,
secondly, we are bound by all acts to which British subjects in
Great Britain would, if passed with respect to them, owe obedience ;
or, thirdly, we are subordinate in a certain degree, or, in other words,
certain acts may be valid in Britain which are not so here.
" Upon the first point I am exceedingly clear in my mind,
for I consider the Colonies as members of the British empire, and
subordinate to the Parliament. But, with regard to the second and
third, I am not so clear. The necessity of a supreme power in
every state, strikes me very forcibly ; at the same time, I foresee the
destructive consequences of a right in Parliament to bind us in all
cases whatsoever. To obviate the ill effects of either extreme, some
middle way should be found out, by which the benefits to the em
pire should be secured arising frvom the doctrine of a supreme power,
while the abuses of that power to the prejudice of the colonists,
should be guarded against ; and this, I hope, will be the happy effect
of the present struggle.

56 THELIFEOF
" The basis of such a compact must be, the securing to the
Americans, the essential rights of Britons, but so modified as shall
, best consist with the general benefit of the whole. If upon such a
compact, we cannot possess the specific privileges of the .inhabitants
of Great Britain, (as for instance a representation in Parliament we
cannot,) this must not be an obstacle ; for there is certainly a point
in which the general good of the whole, with the least possible
disadvantage to every part, does centre, though it may be difficult
to discern it, and every individual part must give way to the genetd
good. "If the principles upon which such a union should be formed
are difficult of discovery, will it not mitigate the severity of the
acts we complain of? If the line between authority and depend
ence has never been drawn, will it not render the offence less
heinous if the Parliament has transgressed it ?
"It may be said, that these principles terminate in passive
obedience : far from it. I perceive that several of the acts exceed
those bounds, which, of right, ought to circumscribe the Parlia
ment. But, my difficulty arises from this, that taking the whole of
the acts complained of together, they do not, I think, manifest a
system of slavery, but may fairly be imputed to human frailty, and
the difficulty of the subject. Most of them seem to have sprung
out of particular occasions, and are unconnected with each other,
and some of them are precisely of the nature of other acts made
before the commencement of his present Majesty's reign, which is
the era when the supposed design of subjugating the colonies be
gan. If these acts have exceeded what is and ought to be de
clared to be the line of right, and thus we have been sufferers
in some respects by the undefined state of the subject, it will also, I
think, appear from such a union, when established, if past trans
actions are to be measured by the standard hereafter to be fixed,
that we have hitherto been deficient in other respects, and derived
benefit from the same unsettled state.
" In short, I think those acts may have been passed without a
preconcerted plan of enslaving us, and it appears to me that the
more favorable construction ought ever to be put on the conduct
of our rulers. I cannot therefore think the government dissolved;
and as long as the society lasts, the power that every individual

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 57
gave the society when he entered into it, can never revert to the
individuals again, but will always remain in the community*
" If it be asked how we come to be subject to the authority of
the British Parliament, I answer, by the same compact which
entitles us to the benefits of the British constitution, and its laws;
and that we derive advantage even from some kind of subordina
tion, whatever the degree of it should be, is evident, because with
out such a controlling common umpire, the colonies must become
independent states, which would be introductive of anarchy and
confusion among ourselves.
" Some kind of dependence being then, in my idea, necessary
for our own happiness, I would choose to see a claim made of
a constitution which shall concede this point, as before that is
done by us, and rejected by the mother country, I cannot see
any principle of regard for my country, which will authorize me
in taking up arms, as absolute dependence and independence are
two extremes which I would avoid ; for, should we succeed in the
latter, we shall still be in a sea of uncertainty, and have to fight
among ourselves for that constitution we aim at.
" There are many very weighty reasons besides the above, to
restrain a man from taking up arms, but some of them are of too
delicate a nature to be put upon paper ; however, it may be proper
to mention what does not restrain me. It is not from apprehension
of the consequences should America be subdued, or the hopes of
any favor from government, both which I disclaim ; nor is it from
any disparagement of the cause my countrymen are engaged in,
or a desire of obstructing the present measures.
" I am fully convinced, that men of the greatest abilities, and
the soundest integrity, have taken parts in this war with America,
and their measures should have a fair trial. But this is too serious
a matter, implicitly to yield to the authority- of any characters,
however respectable. Every man must exercise his own reason,
and judge for himself; ' for he that appeals to Heaven, must be
sure that he has right on his side,' according to Mr. Locke. It is
a question of morality and religion, in which a man cannot con
scientiously take an active part, without being convinced in his
own mind of the justice of the cause ; for obedience while govern-
* Locke. 8

58 THELIFEOF
ment exists being clear on the one hand, the dissolution of the
government must be equally so, to justify an appeal to arms ; and
whatever disagreeable consequences may follow from dissenting
from the general voice, yet I cannot but remember that I am to
render an account of my conduct before a more awful tribunal,
where no man can be justified, who stands accused by his own
conscience of taking part in measures, which, through, the distress
and bloodshed of his fellow-creatures, may precipitate his country
into ruin."
Whatever may be said of the reasoning of the foregoing paper,
it exhibits the spectacle of a great mind, unmoved by personal
considerations, unaffectedly solicitous, at an important crisis in
public affairs, to discharge his duties faithfully, and in the solemn
view of a future accountability. The course which he determined
to pursue, was purely the result of principle, and of conscientious
views of duty. He made his obligations in this particular the
subject of anxious reflection, and of careful meditation and study,
To enlighten his mind, he made critical examinations of the works
of Locke, Vattel, Montesquieu, Grotius, Beccaria, Puffendorf, and
of other elementary writers, and he made numerous notes and
extracts from those authors.* Possibly his course would have
differed, had he not resorted so much to books for its government;
and it was a remark of one of his own favorite authors, that "the
highest refinement of reason is not always desirable."
A calamity of an alarming character now awaited him in his
own person. In the early part of spring in this year, he experi
enced that most severe and trying of all dispensations — blindness.
His assiduous application to study, and to the critical work of re
vising the Colonial statutes, had injured his vision, and, at this pe
riod, he lost the sight of his right eye entirely, and never recovered
the use of it afterwards.
In May of this year, Mr. Van Schaack,, with three others, TO
chosen by the electors of the district of Kinderhook, to represent
them in the " Committee of safety, correspondence, and protection"
* Passages in some of these works, in Mr. Van Schaack's library, applicable
to his situation, and supporting his sentiments, still retain the marks made
by him.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 59
for Albany county, which then embraced the present county of
Columbia. On the twenty-ninth of May, he attended the first sit
ting of the newly elected General Committee, at Albany, and took
his seat as a member.
At this meeting, the committee for the Kinderhook district pre
sented to the Board a complaint in writing, detailing a state of facts
in regard to certain outrages committed in their district, by " bodies
of armed men from Claverack and Kings district, and from Massa
chusetts Bay, [who] had invaded the district, and without authority
of any Committee of this [Albany] county, had disarmed, dra
gooned, and ill treated the inhabitants. A sub-committee was by
them [the Board] appointed to inquire into the facts, who [at a
subsequent meeting] reported that they had been fully proved upon
oath before them. Notwithstanding this, no notice was taken of
the report, and no redress given to the persons injured ; and instead
of passing a censure on the delinquents, the Committee left them in
possession of what they had taken, and expelled the district com
mittee [of Kinderhook] unheard, unquestioned, and without even the
specious formality of a trial ! and that, too, by an order made ex
pressly for the purpose."*
At this first meeting of the newly elected General Committee, also,
a resolution was adopted, requiring the general association to be ten
dered to every member of the Board. It appears by the minutes of
the committee, that Mr. Van Schaack and his associates from the
Kinderhook district, declined signing the association, upon its being
tendered to them. By a resolution passed at a subsequent meeting,
the committee treated this refusal as " declining to comply with the
mode of obtaining a right to a seat in this Board," and it was prob
ably the reason of their expulsion, which was done in the manner
before mentioned, and in derogation, as it would seem, of the rights
of the electors of the Kinderhook district, by whom they had been
chosen their representatives in the usual manner, and without any
such restriction.
The association referred to, and which Mr. Van Schaack had
thus refused to sign, was the new association, which included a
pledge to take up arms against the parent state.
We have seen that Mr. Van Schaack was opposed to the
# See Appendix E.

60 THELIFEOF
measures of the British ministry ;— that he anxiously desired a re
dress of grievances ; — and that as a member of the two committees of
" fifty-one," and " sixty," he evinced his willingness to adopt mea
sures to procure such redress. He was now solicitous to go further
in the exercise of peaceful remedies ; but, when it was required of
him to take up arms, or to give a pledge contemplating measures of
force, his conscience and his deliberate views of duty, and of the
direful consequences which he apprehended would befall his coun
try, in case of a resort tq the major vis, would not permit him to sanc
tion this ultimate step fn the progress of the public measures. From
about this period, probably, he ceased to act with the friends of the
Revolution ; influenced, as he evidently was, by a conviction of too
great harshness in many of the public proceedings, having a direct
tendency to an open rupture, — by partial disgust at irregularities
committed by the whigs, " in the name of liberty," and by his domes
tic afflictions. He may be set down with probable correctness, as
among that class, whom he elsewhere describes, as being " disposed
to go along with the Congress to a certain limited extent, hoping
in that way to fix what they conceived to be the rights of their
country upon the firmest foundation ; but as soon as they found, that
the views and designs of the American leaders rested in nothing
short of a dissolution of the union between Great Britain and her
colonies, they refused any longer to participate in the public mea
sures." Having been deprived of one of the most essential organs of
the human body, and with the apprehension ever present to his
mind, that the secret causes which had operated to destroy the
sight of one eye, might also affect the other, anew affliction await
ed him, in the prospect of being deprived of the best if not his only
earthly stay for consolation, should he be reduced to a state of total
blindness. In August of this year, Mrs. Van Schaack was seized
with a dreadful vomiting of blood, which produced a weakness in
the lungs that led to a decline, which eventually terminated her life.
In October of this, to him, eventful and most afflictive year, he
followed to the tomb the remains of his " much honored father."
In the midst of all these misfortunes, which seemed to " tread
each other's heels," he could find no consolation in the tranquillity
and prosperity of his country, already distracted by the impending

RETER VAN SCHAACK. 61
horrors of a civil war. The part, also, which it became him to
take in this great contest, rendered this the most trying situation of
his life. Upon mature, dispassionate and conscientious reflection,
he had come to the conclusion, that it was not his duty to take up
arms against the mother country. Neither did he feel himself jus
tified in taking a part against the colonies ; for, as has been seen,
he condemned the prominent measures of the British government,
which constituted the grievances of the colonies, and only differed
with his countrymen in regard to the best remedies to be pursued.
It was not the least trying circumstance to his feelings, that in
taking this position of neutrality, he found himself separated from
many of the companions of his early youth, and from his most inti
mate friends. Not to mention others, his particular friends, John
Jay, Egbert Benson, Theodore Sedgwick and Gouverneur Morris,
were found among the most active advocates for warlike measures.
His wishes were to have gone with these friends ; his sense of duty,
and of what he considered to be the best interests of the colonies,
forbade his giving countenance to measures of force. The appear
ance of not acting up to what his best friends had rated as a
standard of patriotism, and his seeming (as he supposed it would
seem to others) to act against the interests of his country, gave him
great pain, and operated severely upon a naturally quick sensibility,
rendered particularly excitable by a series of domestic afflictions.
The repugnance which he had to taking up arms, was by no
means singular in him. A searching master spirit, at an early
period, had predicted, that " after all, we must fight," and the
sentiment received a ready response in another bosom of fire. But
the great body of those who afterwards became the pillars of the
Revolution, were slow in coming to that unwelcome conclusion.
And when Virginia's great orator first introduced, in her Convention
of Delegates, in March, 1775, a proposition for organizing " a well
regulated militia," the suggestion was received with scorn and
marked dissatisfaction, and the resolutions were indignantly op
posed by such men as Robert C. Nicholas and others of her illus
trious sons, and among whom were Richard Bland, Benjamin
Harrison and Edmund Pendleton, who had been delegates to the
memorable Congress of 1774.* Indeed, the attachment of the
* See Wirt's Life of Patrick Henry.

62 THE LIFE OF
colonies to the mother country, and their solicitude for a continued
political connection, notwithstanding all that had taken place, is
claimed to have been one of the brightest features in the Revolution
which established the independence of these United States.
The subject of this sketch seems to have entertained, in an
eminent and peculiar degree, an abhorrence of civil war. He
looked upon it as a calamity above all others to be most deprecated,
and seemed scarcely willing to admit an- idea of its necessity to
secure a lodgment in his mind. It was his own language, upon
experience, that " amidst all the calamities which are incident to
mankind, those attendant upon a civil war are the most grievous,
complicated, and' extensive. Those who have felt its horrors, find
the most animated description of them inadequate, and to those who
have, by a more benign dispensation of Providence, been exempt
from it, the detail of its miseries would hardly gain credit. The
dissolution of the bonds of civil government, and the anarchy con
sequent upon it, constitute the epitome of human wretchedness."
His mind seemed to be always inclined to the dark side of the
picture, and there can be no doubt, that his sentiments on this
subject, in their application to the then state of public affairs,
were influenced in a measure, (and probably unconsciously,) by his
own personal situation. He had just commenced his professional
course, which promised high distinction, and to the pursuit of which
he was sincerely devoted. " Inter arma silent leges ;"
and he no doubt felt that the progress of the arts and sciences, as well
as of the law, would be arrested by a state of things so uncongenial
to their flourishing. The rapid succession of domestic afflictions with
which he had been visited, as well as that most trying calamity
which befell his eye-sight, were also calculated to predispose his
mind for retirement, and for the tranquillity of peace. If it be true,
that character often receives its bias from accident and situation,
it will easily be perceived, that the circumstances referred to may
have had no small share of influence upon his mind, and the conse
quent government of his course.*
# "When the Revolution broke out, also, he had but just risen from the la
borious work of revising the Colonial statutes — a work which, in its nature,

PETERVANSCHAACK. 63
¦ '(
Mr. Van Schaack remained in retirement, at Kinderhook, the
residue of this year, and took no part on either side. The
position of neutrality, which he had assumed, he religiously ob
served ; . and he evinced no desire to obstruct the public measures,
which his countrymen saw fit to adopt to accomplish their pur
poses. But, he was not long left to the tranquil enjoyment of
what he regarded as the sacred rights of conscience, which
was all he desired. The master spirits of the Revolution, acted
upon the principle, that " he who was not for them, was against
them." The subject of this sketch, being known to possess talents
of a high order, and an elevated reputation, and having also an
extensive acquaintance and numerous family connections over
whom he might be supposed to have an influence, was, by the ap
plication of this principle, rendered an object of suspicion, and he
consequently became the subject of further proceedings.
and as the basis of its usefulness, contemplated the stability and permanency
of existing institutions.

64 THELIFEOF

CHAPTER IV.
The first constitution of the State of New- York was adopted
in April, 1777.* For two years previous there had been a species
of interregnum, and the powers of government were exercised,
for the most part, by committees in the different counties, and by
a Provincial Congress, or Convention. The " government of this
colony, by Congress and committees, was instituted while the
former government, under the crown of Great Britain, existed in
full force ; and was established for the sole purpose of opposing the
usurpation of the British Parliament, and was intended to expire
on a reconciliation with Great Britain, which it was then appre
hended would soon take place."f
The first Provincial Congress was chosen in May, 1775, and
was induced by the battle of Lexington. The electors of the dif
ferent counties met in their respective towns or districts, and chose
a number of persons to represent their respective districts in a
general county committee. The county committee, thus organized,
among their other duties, appointed the delegates to the Provincial
Congress. Subsequently, the people, in their respective districts,
voted directly for such delegates. The inconvenience of frequently
calling together a full representation from the different districts,
rendered it expedient that the general county committees should
appoint a sub-committee to transact their ordinary duties ; and thus
a very few persons, at some convenient or central point in each
county, usually did the whole business. And so, also, when there
* The first Governor and Legislature of the State of New- York were
chosen in June, 1777.
t This is the language of a resolution of the Provincial Congress, of 31st
May, 1776, which recommended a convention to take into consideration the
necessity and propriety of instituting a new government, and it is recited in
the preamble to the constitution as adopted.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 65
was not a quorum in the Provincial Congress, the members present
resolved themselves into a "committee of safety," and, in that
capacity, exercised the functions of a full Congress.
The regulations thus resorted to as a " temporary expedient,"
were necessarily inconvenient and defective, and they were obnox
ious to mistake and abuse. The different powers of government
were confounded, and they were exercised by one and the same body,
in violation of all rule under well regulated free governments.
This imperfect state of things, led to the adoption of the first conr
stitution, which, in its preamble, recites : " Whereas many and
great inconveniences attend the said mode of government by con
gress and committees, as of necessity, in many instances, legislative,
judicial, and executive powers have been vested therein."
On the twenty-first of September, 1776, the Provincial Con
vention had appointed, from their own number, " a committee for
inquiring into, detecting and defeating all conspiracies, which may
be formed in this State against the liberties of America."* Very
arbitrary powers were given to this committee. They were au
thorized " to send for persons and papers ; to call out such de
tachments of the militia or troops in the different counties, as they
might deem necessary for suppressing insurrections ; to apprehend,
secure or remove persons whom they might judge dangerous to the
safety of the State; to ,make drafts on the treasury for a sum not
exceeding five hundred pounds ; to enjoin secrecy upon their mem
bers, and the persons they employed, whenever they should deem
the same necessary; and to raise and officer, and put under pay,
220 men, and to station them in such places, and employ them on
such services, as they should judge expedient for the public safety ;
and, in general, to do every act and thing whatsoever necessary to
execute the trust reposed in them."f
It will scarcely now be credited, that powers so undefined and
extraordinary, should have been intrusted to a few individuals, by
a people so jealous of encroachments, whose sense of liberty was
so keen as to " snuff the approach of tyranny in every tainted
* On the eleventh of February, 1777, " Commissioners'" of Conspiracies,
who were not members of the convention, were appointed in place of this
" committee,'' which was then dissolved.
t Journals of Convention. 9

66 THELIFEOF
breeze," and who, on their own part, had " gone to war against a
preamble." It was in the critical state of American affairs, at this period,
that the justification for the delegation of such arbitrary authority
has been placed.* The desperate character of the American
cause, at this time, is also abundantly illustrated by the despotic
powers conferred upon General Washington, by a resolve of the
Continental Congress, passed on the 27th day of December, 1776.f
So unusual and extraordinary were these powers, as to occasion an
apology from Congress, who, on the next day, appointed a com
mittee " to prepare a circular letter to the several United States,
explaining the reasons which induced Congress to enlarge the
powers of General Washington."
The county committees before referred to, exercised most of the
functions that were conferred upon the committee of conspiracies
appointed by the convention, sometimes in obedience to the requi
sitions of that committee and of the convention, and committee of
safety, and at others upon their own responsibility. That such a
confounding of powers and duties should have led to many abuses
and irregularities, will not be surprising. We accordingly find,
4hat individuals were often arrested upon mere suspicion, and re-
v "moved many miles from their families and homes, and consigned
to the walls of a prison ; and although afterwards discharged on
the ground of their innocence, they were required to pay all the
expense attending the unfounded proceeding, and their property
was subjected to immediate attachment for that purpose.^
An involuntary remark bearing the appearance of unfriendli
ness to the public measures, — such as speaking disrespectfully of
the Congress, or of its proceedings, — was often made the occasion
or pretext for arrest and imprisonment. It was a very common
circumstance, also, to incarcerate individuals, for refusing to take
depreciated Continental paper money at par, in discharge of bonds
and mortgages.
It is difficult for the mind at this period, to reconcile itself to
* Life of Jay, Vol-. I. p. 50. t See Appendix C.
1 The detail of facts which accompanies Mr. Van Schaack's letter to the
convention, hereafter to be given, presents some of these irregularities in a
very authentic shape. See Appendix E.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 67
these proceedings, especially in view of the eventual worthlessness,
and irredemption of the paper thus questioned.* And it may be
doubted whether any very large portion, even of well-informed
minds, at the present day, would readily perceive, how it could
constitute a criminal offence to refuse to receive in payment of debts
a paper emission of a government not yet fully established, which
did not draw to it the public confidence. But, it was an attack
upon the abstract idea of sovereignty.
Unfounded complaints were, no doubt, often made to the com
mittees, to gratify private malice, and vindictive feelings; and,
with the best intentions on the part of those bodies, (who frequent
ly acted ex parte, and upon suspicion merely,) their proceedings
would, no doubt, sometimes operate oppressively, and with injustice
upon innocent individuals ; and they not unlikely led to disgust,
in such cases, with the public measures, presenting to their minds
the alternative of Sylla and Charybdis, and tending to confirm
others in their opposition to the American cause. That irregulari
ties of this description were numerous, cannot be questioned ; but a
philosophic mind will look upon them without surprise, and will
regard them as the natural, if not necessary concomitants of a state
of civil war, and that the responsibility of their occurrence is to be
laid at the feet of rulers, who, by their ill-judged and oppressive
measures, have driven their subjects to a state of distraction and j,
suspicion, whence those evils, under the infirmities of human nature,
have a natural flow.
The responsibilities which devolved upon these county commit
tees, were immense. They were frequently called upon to act upon
very sudden emergencies, and many of their members were un
learned in the law, and ignorant of those judicial forms, the
observance of which is often so essential to the due administration
of justice, and the proper security of the liberty and rights of the
citizen. The industry, vigilance, persevering energy, pecuniary
sacrifices and responsibilities, fortitude, and single devotedness to
the great cause in which they were engaged, manifested by many
of these committees, as exhibited by the records of their proceed-
* There were numerous cases of persons who lost entire and valuable
farms, having received Continental money in payment, which was never re
deemed by the government.

68 THELIFEOF
ings, furnish sufficient evidence, that they were governed, in the
main, by high and patriotic motives, and that the errors which
they committed were those of the head, and not of the heart.
An anecdote concerning one of these committees, illustrating
the extreme jealousy of liberty, and the extent to which popular
suspicion is often carried in times of civil commotion, may be pro
perly introduced in this connection.* The grave importance
attached to a trifling jeu d 'esprit, will, at this day, only afford a
subject for amusement. '* • -
When General Schuyler arrived at Albany, in July, 1775, to
take charge of the military command in the department of New-
York, under his recent appointment from the Continental Congress,
a public reception was given him under the direction of the com
mittee of safety. The processional display, upon this occasion,
was probably not distinguished for its regularity, or magnificence,
and it gave rise to the following anonymous publication :
" The mode of a late very extraordinary, and very grand
procession. " I. The Congressional General.
" II. The Deputy Chairman, and who is only chairman pro tem
pore. " III. Mr. Ten Broeck — through a mistake.
" IV. The Chairman.
" V. The Committee.
" VI. The troop of horse, most beautiful and grand. Some
horses long-tailed, some bob-tailed, and some without any tails, and
attended with the melodious sound of an incomparably fine trumpet.
" VII. The Association."
The "committee of safety, protection and correspondence,"
entered with spirit and zeal upon the investigation of the matter,
with a view to the discovery and punishment of the anonymous
author of the paper in question. A meeting of the Board was
summoned, at which it was gravely resolved, that " the paper con
tained scandalous reflections on the proceedings of last Sunday."
* The facts composing this anecdote, are taken from the minutes of the
Albany committee, and their authenticity is thus placed beyond question.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 69
A system of espionage was adopted to discover its supposed " tory"
author. The public were called upon, to lodge all such informa
tion as might lead to his discovery. The committee adjourned
from time to time, in the prosecution of their labors ; and public
meetings of the citizens were called and held, at which the subject
was discussed.
At the expiration of three days of unwonted perturbation, Peter
W. Yates, a member of the excited committee, desirous to restore
quiet to an agitated' city, made known to his associates, that he was
the author of the obnoxious paper, at the same time making a very
full apology for his indiscretion, and most solemnly disclaiming
" any intention to injure the cause of liberty."
The committee resolved, " that the concession and acknowledg
ment were satisfactory to the Board." This, however, did not
appease the resentment of the public, which was well nigh inex
orable. The whole city was in uproar on the occasion, and several
public meetings were held, by which Mr. Yates's expulsion from
the Board was demanded.
In deference to public sentiment, Mr. Yates resigned his of
fice of committee-man. But this did not conciliate the offended
" Sons of Liberty," and, notwithstanding the resignation, the com
mittee, " in order to satisfy the minds of the people, and for the
sake of preserving harmony in the city," proceeded to the solemn
task of expulsion. They, however, resolved that "the proceedings
of this committee upon the said paper should not be published,
provided the said. Peter W. Yates, Esquire, make a public confes
sion, in person, to the people here assembled." A committee was
thereupon appointed to wait upon Mr. Yates, and to "give him
assurances of safety, if he should be inclined to make the said con
fession." Mr. Yates accordingly appeared before his assembled
fellow-citizens, and made the required acknowledgment ; the
"cause of liberty" was thus vindicated, and her indignant, but now
appeased "sons" repaired to their homes without committing any
violence*

* Although the public acknowledgment of his waywardness saved his
expulsion, Mr. Yates persisted in his resignation. A new election was
ordered, a few days afterwards, at which his constituents of the first ward
evinced their unabated confidence in his patriotism, by re-electing him to the

70 THELIFEOF
On the twenty-first of December, 1776, the committee of con
spiracies made the following order. "Whereas this committee
have been credibly informed, and have good reason to believe,
that David Van Schaack and Peter Van Schaack, Esquires, Messrs.
John Stevenson and Cornelius Glen, of the city and county of Al
bany, have long maintained an equivocal neutrality in the present
struggles, and are in general supposed unfriendly to the American
cause, and from their influence are enabled to do it essential
injury, " Resolved, that the committee of the city and county of Albany
be requested to summon said persons to appear before them, to ask
them whether they respectively consider themselves as subjects of
the State of New-York, or of the King of Great Britain ; if they an
swer that they consider themselves as subjects of the State of New-
York, then to tender to them the oath of allegiance, and, on their
taking and subscribing the same, to discharge them ; but if they
should answer, that they consider themselves as subjects of the
King of Great Britain, or refuse to take the oath aforesaid, then
to remove them, under the care of some discreet officer, to the town
of Boston, at their own expense, and there to remain on their pa
role of honor till the further order of this committee, or the conven
tion, or future legislature of this State, and that a copy of their
parole be sent to the selectmen of the said town of Boston.
" Resolved, that a copy of the oath of allegiance, and the
parole aforesaid, be sent to the committee of the city and county
of Albany." On the 30th December, the Albany, committee passed a resolu
tion, directing their secretary to address a letter to Mr. Van Schaack
requiring his attendance before them; and, on the 9th of January,
he appeared before that body. It appears by their minutes of this
date, that Mr. Van Schaack " refused to take the oath of allegiance,
directed by the said committee to be taken by those who consider
themselves subjects of the State of New-York," and that, in conse-
same station. Wounded pride probably deterred him from again taking a
seat in the Board, and his ardor in "the cause of liberty" appears to have
abated. His name, however, subsequently appears among the representatives
of the State legislature, by which body he was, also, several times appointed
member of Congress.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 71
quence of this refusal, an order was made, " that he depart hence
directly to Boston within ten days."
A few days afterwards, he presented a petition to the commit
tee, for leave " to remain in the county for such time, and under
such restrictions as the Board should think proper, in order to ad
just his affairs, so as that they might admit of his absence." This
request was denied.
The Provincial Convention was then in session at Fishkill, and
Mr. Van Schaack appealed to that body, in a document of com
manding interest, which he concludes by asking leave to remove
from the State with his family and effects, maintaining it to be his
right. LETTER TO THE CONVENTION.*
Kinderhook, 25th Jan., 1777.
Gentlemen :
I am now about setting out, conformably to the sentence of
your Committee, to make the town of Boston my prison, to which
I am condemned by them unheard, upon a charge of maintaining
an equivocal neutrality in the present struggles. How far the pun
ishment of banishment for this can be justified, either by the prac
tice of other nations, or upon those principles on which alone legit
imate governments are founded, and how far it answers those ends,
which alone make punishments a lawful exercise of power, I shall
not at present inquire ; but as it implies, that your committee con
siders me as a subject of your State, it behooves me, gentlemen, " to
address you with that freedom which can never give offence to the
representatives of a free people."
When I appeared before the Albany committee, I refused to
answer the question, whether I considered myself as a subject of
Great Britain, or of the State of New York, because I perceived
the dilemma in which it would involve me, of either bringing
punishment on myself, in consequence of my own declaration, or
of taking an oath, which, if I had been never so clear respecting
the propositions it contains, under the circumstances it was offered
to me, and in my present situation, I should not have taken.
* The original is preserved in the archives of the State, at Albany, where
it is bound up with other revolutionary documents.

72 THELIFEOF
The reasons peculiar to myself, I shall not urge ; but, supposing
the independency of this State to be clearly established, I conceive
it is premature, to tender an oath of allegiance before the govern
ment to which it imposes subjection, the time it is to take place of
the present exceptionable one, and who are to be the rulers, as
well as the mode of their appointment in future, are known ; for
with every favorable allowance to those arguments which suppose
it improbable that those who are contending for the rights of
mankind will ever invade them, and that those who have vindi
cated liberty against one tyranny, will establish or countenance
another ; I say, admitting these arguments to have weight, both
history and experience have, however, convinced me that they are
by no means conclusive.
In the resolutions of the Provincial Congress of the 31st May
last, I find it declared, that "many and great inconveniences attend
the mode of government by congress and committees, as of neces
sity, in many instances, legislative, executive and judiciary powers
have been vested in them." Now, gentlemen, the union of these
powers in the same body of men, according to him whom the
continental congress call the " immortal Montesquieu," " puts an
end to liberty j" and is there not cause, therefore, (reasoning entirely
from the fallibility of mankind without respect to persons,) to be
Very jealous of a government, established by a body of men with
such a plenitude of power, especially when they have not given
the public the common security of an oath for the fair and impar
tial exercise of it 1 Have not the people a right to expect that
the intended constitution should-be'published for their approbation;,
before they are compelled, under so severe a penalty as banish
ment, to swear fidelity to it 1*
The declaration of independency proceeded upon a supposition,
that the constitution under which we before lived was actually dis
solved, and the British government, as such, totally annihilated
here. Upon this principle, I conceive that we were reduced to a
state of nature, in which the powers of government reverted to the
people, who had undoubtedly a right to establish any new form
* The Convention appears to have subsequently become satisfied of the
impropriety of administering a general oath of allegiance, before a regular
government was organized. See Appendix D.
/

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 73
they thought proper ; that portion of his natural liberty which
each individual had before surrendered to the government, being
now resumed, and to which no one in society could make any
claim until he incorporated himself in it.
But, gentlemen, admitting there was never so clear a majority
in favor of independency, and who were convinced that they were
absolved from their allegiance, and admitting that you are now
vested with powers to form a new government, by the suffrages of
a majority of the people of this State ; permit me to observe that
those who are of different sentiments, be they never so few, are not
absolutely concluded, in point of right thereby. The question whe
ther a government is dissolved and the people released from their al
legiance, is, in my opinion, a question of morality as well as religion,
in which every man must judge, as he must answer for himself; and
this idea is fairly held up to the public in your late address, where
in you declare, " that every individual must one day answer for the
part he now acts." If he must answer for the part he acts, which
certainly presupposes the right of private judgment, he can never
be justifiable in the sight of God or man, if he acts against the light
of his own conviction. In such a case no majority, however re
spectable, can decide for him.
But, admitting that a man is never so clear about the dissolu
tion of the old government, I hold it that every individual has still
a right to choose the State of which he will become a member ; for
before he surrenders any part of his natural liberty, he has a right
to know what security he will have for the enjoyment of the resi
due, and " men being by nature free, equal and independent," the
subjection of any one to the political power of a State, can arise
only from "'his own consent." I speak of the formation of society
and of a man's initiating himself therein, so as to make himself a
member of it ; for I admit, that when once the society is formed,
the majority of its members undoubtedly conclude the rest.
Upon these principles, I hold it that you cannot justly put me
to the alternative of choosing to be a subject of Great Britain, or
of this State, because should I deny subjection to Great Britain, it
would not follow that I must necessarily be a member of the State
of New York; on the contrary, I should still hold that I had a right,
by the "immutable laws of nature," to choose any other State of
10

74 THELIFEOF
which I would become a member. And, gentlemen, if you
think me so dangerous a man, as that my liberty at home is incom
patible with the public safety, I now claim it at your hands as my
right, that you permit me to remove from your State into any other
I may prefer, in which case, I reserve to myself the power of dis
posing of my property by sale or otherwise.
I would not be so far misunderstood, as if I supposed that no
person is amenable to the authority of a State, unless he has ex
pressly recognized and consented to it. I am aware, that there
may be an implied consent arising from a temporary residence in
a community and " deriving protection from the laws of the same."
But, to make a man a member of any society, and a subject of its
government, in that sense which would restrain him from quitting
it, and removing to another he may like better, I conceive that a
positive, express, unequivocal engagement is necessary. I am con
strained, therefore, to deny, in its full latitude, the assertion in your
resolution of the 16th July, " that persons abiding in the State and
deriving protection from the laws of the same, are members of the
state," for I hold it, that they are from those circumstances merely,
no otherwise members of it than in a sense so qualified as to make
the position immaterial in the present case. These, as far as I un
derstand them, are the sentiments of Mr. Locke and those other
advocates for the rights of mankind, whose principles have been
avowed and in some instances carried into practice, by the Con
gress. According to these principles I have endeavored to conduct
myself during the present calamities of this country. Whatever
my private opinions may have been of their rectitude, wisdom, or
policy, I have acquiesced in the proceedings of the Congress, and
• expected whenever I transgressed their ordinances, to undergo the
penalty, whether of fine, imprisonment, or otherwise ; and this I
conceived entitled me to protection. Between protection and
reward in society, I conceived there was a wide difference, and
that the man who took no active part against you, was entitled
to the former, but that a claim to the latter could only be founded
on some positive merit ; and as I never solicited/aws, I never ex
pected to suffer for wanting the qualifications necessary to entitle
me to them.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 75
Disposed, however, to make allowances for the exigencies of
the times, I would cheerfully have submitted to an abridgment of my
liberty, if those in authority really thought it incompatible with the
public, safety ; but then, in determining this, I expected regard
should have been paid to the principles of judicial equity, and that
those who gave an opinion respecting my principles, should have
been compelled to assign the facts on which it was founded, and
that I should have had an opportunity of controverting them, and
of impeaching the credibility, or proving the infamy of the inform
ers against me. But if I was to be condemned on suspicion, I ex
pected at least that my informers and judges should have been
under oath ; and if a test was necessary, I expected it would be in
consequence of some general law, putting all men who are in the
same class in the same situation, and not that it should be left at
the discretion of particular men to tender it to such individuals as ma
levolence, or party, family, or personal resentment should point out.
I have been several times apprised, that my brothers and myself
have been represented to you as dangerous persons, whose influence
has disseminated a general disaffection through the district, upon
which charge I shall be silent, as I well know the invidious light
in which declarations tending to remove suspicions of this nature
are received. I cannot, however, avoid sending you a detail of
the proceedings relative to this district,* in which perhaps you will
be able to trace a cause for its general disaffection, (if it be so,)
more efficacious than any influence we can be supposed to have.
An inquiry into this cannot be unworthy of your attention, and if
you find an adequate cause in them, I hope all conjectures about a
supposed one will vanish. With this detail you would sooner have
been furnished, but that complaints of the abuses of power, are
supposed in these cases to be levelled at the power itself, and im
puted to an insidious view of exciting disunion.
I have now, gentlemen, concluded the business of this applica
tion, which, as I had not the honor of a personal hearing, I am
obliged to offer by way of letter. My request is for leave to
quit your State, and my reasons I have explained at large.
If my principles are ill-founded, or misapplied, I shall readily
retract my errors when pointed out ; but if they are founded on
* Vide Appendix E.

76 THELIFEOF
the immutable laws of nature, and the sacred rights of mankind, if
they are such as are generally acknowledged by writers of the
greatest eminence, and if they are necessarily connected with the
same principles on which the American opposition is justified, I
trust they will readily be admitted by you, though urged by an
individual ; nor do I conceive they now come before you in an
extrajudicial way, but are clearly connected with my defence, on a
charge which has been thought of importance enough to subject
me to banishment from my native place.
I had several observations to make respecting the peculiar
nature of the parole imposed on me, but. if I receive such an answer
to my request as I expect, they will be superseded.
I am, Gentlemen, Your most ob't serv't, Peter Van Schaack.
The author is here tempted to introduce several extracts from
the Lh% of Gouverneur Morris*
" The American colonies, during the three first years of the
Revolution, presented a phenomenon in the political world, of which
there isno example in the history of nations. Twelve governments,'
which had hitherto existed independent of each other, and alike
subordinate to a superior power, all at once, and as if by common
consent, threw off their allegiance to that power, and assumed to
themselves the perilous task of self-government, at the fearful haz
ard of distraction and anarchy among themselves, and of receiving
on their heads the weight of vengeance prepared by their former
masters, as a punishment for their disobedience and revolt. No
condition of human affairs could be more critical or alarming.
The social and political compact was absolutely resolved into its
first elements, and it remained with each individual, in these wide
spread communities, to determine in what manner, and on what
terms he would consent to renew this compact, and what sacrifices
he would make of his private interests and personal independence
for the general good."
" The formation of the American republics must ever be a theme
of wonder to those, who judge" of social organizations by the annals
* By Jare'd Sparks, Vol. I. p. 28.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 77
of past experience, and in all future time it must constitute a novel
chapter in the history of mankind."
" Wherever the power of Great Britain was thrown off or disa
vowed, all political control passed by its natural course into the
hands of the people. No man, or body of men, had authority to
command any other body of men or individual ; equality of rights
produced an equality of condition ; and the structure of government
could only be raised on the strength of powers delegated anew to
certain persons, for this special purpose, by the willing voice of
the people, whom circumstances had made the sole arbiters of their
own political destiny."
The Convention evinced their respect for the author of the
letter, if not for his arguments, by immediately passing an order
for Mr. Van Schaack to appear before them.* This order was
made on the third of February ; but, by some accident, it was not
received by him until March following. In the mean time he had
proceeded to Boston. The letters which follow were written
during his stay in Massachusetts. TO MRS. VAN SCHAACK. Boston, 8th Feb'y, 1777.
You will perceive, my dear wife, by the date of this letter, that
we are arrived at the place which was destined for our residence.
The difficulties we have met with on the road, I have mentioned to
you in a former letter, and such were the delays they occasioned
that we arrived here only yesterday. Thank God, we are all in
health, and at present in spirits, though the character we came in
has sometimes very sensibly affected them. We must expect to
labor under some disadvantage in a strange place on this account,
but that deportment, which will be my choice as well as my inter
est, I hope will remove those prejudices which the circumstance
of our banishment may at first create.
I have not time to give you any particulars relating to this
town, which at present exhibits a greater scene of business than, I
believe, any pla.ce on the continent ; in general, however, I must
* Vide Appendix F.

78 THE LIFE OF ',. .
f *
observe to you, my dear, that such gentlemen as I have as yet
seen relative to the business of our coming, have behaved with the
utmost politeness, and from this specimen I doubt not but my situ
ation here will be as easy as the circumstance of my absence from
my family and friends will admit of; therefore make yourself easy
on my account.
Thus have I made out something of a letter, and rely on my
omitting no one opportunity that falls in my way, after I am set
tled, which will be in private lodgings. Present my duty to my
mother, and affectionate compliments to all my friends, and be
lieve me Most affectionately yours, P. V. Schaack.
TO MRS. VAN SCHAACK. Boston, 10th Feb'y, 1777.
My dear" Wife:
I wrote you a line last Saturday. Our situation is yet unde
termined, but we are not to remain here. The Selectmen refused
taking charge of us, and referred us to some members of the com
mittee, and they to the Council of the State, who, thinking this the
most improper place we could be at, on a supposition of our being
dangerous, have determined we shall go to a country town, and
fixed on Leominster, about fifty miles from here. We have no
other objection to it than its not being near enough home, so that
we shall apply for a town nearer the line, in which case I mean to
send for you, as soon as I have fixed a place for your reception. '
We have been treated here with a civility and hospitality that are
very flattering to us. We see here nothing but candor and human
ity, and no man here is punished, as far as I can find out, who has
committed no crime.*
* It was a beautiful compliment to the people of Massachusetts, contained
m a letter written at the close of the Revolution to Mr. Van Schaack then in
England, by his brother Henry, who had taken up his residence at Richmond,
in Berkshire county. " This commonwealth [says Mr. Henry Van Schaack]
has to boast, what perhaps no people on earth could ever say before, and
which w that they have been the prop of the confederacy in carrying on the
war, and after a struggle of seven years, they have established a good govern-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 79
Let me conclude with doing justice to Capt. Hughes's polite
ness, which I hope will be acknowledged by all my friends, and
that any civility they can show to him, will be readily done.
My duty, love and affection to all friends. Heaven of his mercy
take you all into his protection. Most affectionately, I am yours,
P. V. S.
TO MRS. VAN SCHAACK.
Leominster, 22d Feb'y, 1777.
I was made happy by the sight of your letter, my dearest Betsey,
of the 11th inst., but my joy was soon overclouded by the account
you give me of the fit you have had. I hope it was only occasioned
by the sudden loss of blood, and trust in God, that before now you
are restored to your usual state of health, than which nothing can
more effectually afford consolation to me under my present, or any
future adversity. We are all perfectly resigned, except on account
of the distance from our families, which may occasion such solemn
scenes at home without our hearing of them, as we dare hardly
think of. Heaven avert it !
We live here extremely retired, and under great restriction as to
the liberty of going abroad, having but one mile from home ; how
ever, even this we are contented with, except so far as it bears an
appearance of guilt, which you know has not been as much as
pretended. We have a very agreeable room, and are in a most
obliging, decent family, who study to make our situation as easy
as possible to us. As yet we have made little acquaintance, though
we have received visits and a tender of good offices from several
principal inhabitants, particularly from Col. Legate, a gentleman
of the first character here, of whom I would say more but that I
intend showing him this letter, which he will take the trouble of
looking over in order by his certificate to gain it a readier passport.
But, my dear, comfortable as our situation is, its great distance
from home is such as must deprive us of the pleasure of seeing
ment, and never executed a single man for his political principles. When
this fact is handed down to posterity by the faithful pages of history, ages
hence will rank the Massachusetts among the first people in the world.''

80 THELIFEOF
our families ; it is impossible that your delicate constitution can
undergo the fatigue of such a journey, nor if _you came could I ac
commodate you in a propepmanner ; I do not mean as to elegancies;
these I know you hold as cheap as any body possibly can, but as
to what to you would.be absolutely necessaries. I could therefore
wish, with all my heart, that we could be fixed at- some place
nearer home ; if this could be effected, I should be very, easy in my
exile, since the severity exercised towards us by the people of our
own State, is such as to make me rather wish to change my rulers.
As people here never see punishment inflicted when there is no
crime, they are inclined to think charitably of our rulers, and to
suppose that as we are punished, we must necessarily be guilty;
however, this is only the first impression, which gives way to the
clearer evidence of fact.
I shall reserve till I have the pleasure of seeing you, a detail
of the manner we pass our time. Walking, reading, writing and
conversation are the circle ; and I flatter myself, were I to descend
to particulars, you would think our time spent very innocently and
very rationally, though my removal from Boston has disappointed
me in the article of books, which I would have taken with me, if
I had not expected to have got all I wanted in the town ; however,
Colonel Legate, a gentleman of great reading, has offered us the
use of his library. I must forbear entering upon the subject of
family concerns or my paper will be too small. In short, assure all
my friends of my love and affection.
,«. I am, my dearest Jietsey,
Most affectionately yours, P. Van Schaack.
TO MRS. VAN SCHAACK.
Leominster, 24ih Feb'y, 1777.
I wrote you, my dearest wife, last Saturday, being the twenty-
second instant, since which nothing has happened to require another
letter ; but, as I suppose you have equal pleasure in reading my
letters that I receive from yours, I shall never want inducement
to write you. I cannot say but your letter, which I received from
the same hands you delivered it to, has given me great, uneasiness.
Your health, my dear Betsey, is a principal object of my thoughts,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 81
because of all'Ssvorldly enjoyments that is the most important, and
as1 such I hope you will endeavor to preserve it by the utmost atten
tion to it. Were it not for my anxiety on this subject, I could
reconcile myself to my situation ; but the fears which always
accompany my earnest hopes of seeing you, are a continual alloy
to all my enjoyments, innocent as they are. Your kind concern
about me makes a deep impression on my mind, and if the intrinsic
importance of your advice could want any thing to recommend
it to me, it would be its coming from a person whom I have every
motive to love and to esteem. Write me, therefore, very often, if
it is but three lines at a time. Yours and the children's health
will, I hope, always be the subject, nor must you forget my aged
mother. In my last, I gave you such an account of my situation as to
preclude all hopes of seeing you here. My utmost wishes are, to be
removed so near you as to admit of your coming with our effects
to my residence, and this I hope will be attainable without great
difficulty ; for, in the name of common sense, what difference, will
it make to the United States whether we are a hundred miles far
ther east or west, and who ever would have dreamed that the
American cause would be affected by our being here or there ?
Risum teneatis amid? Tell Peter Van Dyck to translate this
for you. Monday morning, 3d March.
" As cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far
country," says the wise man. Heaven grant we may soon experi
ence this pleasure ! for we begin to grow extremely impatient,
having heard nothing from home since your letter of the 11th ; —
indeed, I fear that we shall have very few conveyances for letters
till May if we remain here, this being a place, as I have told you
before, remote from the post road. In my last direction to you
for sending your letters, I mentioned that it would be best to send
them to Westtown, but I find now that there is a greater com
munication between this place and Worcester, so that it will be
best to let them be left there, and you may put them under cover
to Thomas Legate, Esq., of this place, and direct them to be left
at the Worcester post-office, there being a regular post from that
place to this, and the distance about fifteen miles. Mention these
11

82 THELIFEOF
particulars to the rest of my correspondents. Tell- Harry and
David that I shall acknowledge the receipt of their letters when a
direct opportunity offers, having now nothing of consequence to
write them ; communicate the same to Doctor Van Dyck, when
you see him, with my best respects to him, his good lady and my
namesake. Remember me most affectionately to my mother, and all the
different branches of the family, and likewise to your uncle and
aunt. Kiss Harry and the little one for me.
I am, my dearest Betsey,
Yours most affectionately, P. V. Schaack.

TO-

Leominster, 1th March, 1777.
Dear Cousin :*
If I have not reproached myself several times for not writing
you as I promised, I have at least been uneasy that I have not done
it — not that the neglect was wilful, or that I am without reasons
to apologize for my silence. Far from it. I could give you a de
tail which would fully satisfy you, but that it would be unentertain-
ing; you must therefore accept of my word instead of proof. If)
then, I had such cogent reasons for my silence, it might be asked,
whence arose my uneasiness about it ; a promise of this kind in
the nature of it being conditional, and implying a right of dispens
ing with it when it could not be complied with without great in
convenience ? I say, this might be asked, but not by you, I am
sure ; whose mind has been so early tinctured with the principles
not only of virtue, but of honor, the handmaid of virtue, that you will
easily account for the uneasiness which is felt at the bare appears
ance of inattention, in a case of so delicate a nature as that of a
promise. To a young gentleman it should be inculcated as a prm>
ciple, that the least violation of a promise should be viewed with
horror, and that his mind, in this respect, should be so pure as not
only to be " innocent, but even unsuspected."
The first object of attention, indeed, in morals, is the appro-
* Some young friend.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 83
bation of one's own conscience, and the greatest happiness, the mens
sibi conscia recti ; but a respectful regard to appearances, as they
relate to the opinion of others, will also have great weight on the
conduct of a man of sensibility. Negligere quid de se quisque sen-
tiat, non solum arrogantis est, sed etiam omnino dissoluti. Thus
much by way of preamble to a correspondence, which I hope will
be punctually maintained by you.
I wrote your good papa while I was at Boston, and doubtless
you have heard of my removal ; had I remained there, I should
have had more subjects for writing, as well as more frequent con
veyances for my letters. That town, the capital not only of this
State but of all New England, is situated on a peninsula communi
cating with the main land by a narrow neck upwards of a mile
long, which is all paved. The town is about as large as New-
York, full as compact, and the streets as irregular ; the most con
spicuous public buildings are the Town-house, in which the general
court sits, and Faneuil Hall, where public town meetings are held,
and in which we attended the selectmen. On the west side of the
town is Beacon Hill, a very high eminence, which commands a
most extensive and delightful prospect of the harbor on the south,
which is interspersed with a great number of islands, among which
is that whereon the castle stands. On the east, you see the ruins
of Charlestown and Bunker's Hill, rendered famous by the blood
which was shed on it, in the battle, the 17th June, 1775 ; and to
the northward is Cambridge, a beautiful little town, in which is a
famous college. From this eminence there is a view of a great
extent of country, Roxbury, Dorchester, &c, at which places, as
well as on the neck, Bunker Hill, &c, are a number of fortifica
tions, erected during the two last campaigns.
This State is very extensive and extremely populous, containing
a great number of towns, which along the road we came are almost
all thickly settled. Of the government and police of this State I
shall say but little, though it is a subject most worthy the inquiry
of a young gentleman whose education qualifies him for the know
ledge of politics, and who may one day be led to hold a public
office ; I cannot however help observing, that most offices here are
elective, and the representation more complete than in any State I
have known; the duration of representative bodies is short, by

,84 THE LITE OF
which means they are continually reminded of their dependence on
the people, which is the only source from whence all power in civil
society is derived.
I have now given you a specimen of my disposition to cultivate
a correspondence with you, and hope you will discover the like.
Pray do not be sparing of your pen and ink. Your time you can
not better employ than in epistolizing in the unreserved familiarity
of friendship. Such an intercourse will assist your invention, ena
ble you to methodize your thoughts, and accustom you to express
yourself with ease and correctness. By the by, let me recommend
to you the reading of the first volume of the Prseceptor, wherein
you will find some hints on this subject well worth your attention,
and exemplified by several letters of some of the greatest geniuses
of the present century.
I hope you will not fail writing me often ; for hearing of the
welfare of friends, to those who, as the poet says, are "eating the
bitter bread of banishment," is of all other consolations the greatest.
Present my respects to your papa and mamma, and your aunt over
the way, to whom I have not been able, as you may judge, to
perform my promise of sending them some oranges, &c.
The confusion attendant upon the removal of the Convention
from Fishkill, (which took place on the fourteenth of February,)
and their reassembling five days afterwards at Kingston, may
account for their omission to transmit to Mr. Van Schaack their
order for his attendance. Mrs. Van Schaack, (whose anxiety,
increased by her delicate state of health, on account of her hus
band's absence, will be appreciated,) having accidentally heard of
the order, wrote to Mr. Jay for a copy.
JOHN JAY TO MRS. VAN SCHAACK.
Fishkill, 12th March, 1777.''
Dear Madam :
Your letter of the third inst. was sent me a few days ago by
Mr. Robert Benson, at Kingston. He informs me that the Con
vention, understanding that it related to'business of a public nature, .
opened it ; and that, agreeably to your request, a copy of the order
for Mr. Van Schaack's appearance was immediately transmitted to

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 85
you. I am at a loss to account for its being so long delayed.
The order was passed before the Convention removed from this
place. Had I suspected the neglect, it would have been prevented.
I am exceedingly sorry to hear of the indisposition of one of
the children, and feel very sensibly the distress which Mr. Van
Schaack's absence must occasion you. I flatter myself it will not
be of long duration, and sincerely hope, as he will now have his
election, that he will prevail on himself to join with, and remain
in the country. Mrs. Jay continues to recover slowly from the ef
fects of her former indisposition. She presents her compliments
to you. I am, dear madam, with great truth,
Your friend and humble serv't, John Jay.
P. S. I shall set out for Kingston to-morrow.
On the fourth of April, Mr. Van Schaack appeared in person
befbre the Convention, and that body passed the following order :
" Whereas many important affairs highly interesting to the
public, at present so engross the attention of this house, as not to
admit of their proceeding to a consideration of the memorial of
Peter Van Schaack, Esq.,
"Resolved, That the said Peter Van Schaack return to his
usual place of abode, on his parole, to remain there till the fur
ther order of this house, or future executive power of the State ;
and in the mean time, neither directly or indirectly, to do or say
any thing to the prejudice of the American cause ; and that one of
the secretaries do take the said parole."*
It is not a little remarkable, that after having been so uncere
moniously banished to another State by the Convention's Commit
tee, and hurried off to Boston without even giving him time to
arrange his private affairs, Mr. Van Schaack should have been re
called by the Convention, upon his own letter, and, at a most crit
ical conjuncture of American affairs, directed to repair to his usual
place of residence near Hudson's river, without any investigation,
and there suffered to remain unmolested for more than a year,
* See Appendix G, for parole.

86 THELIFEOF
upon his individual parole of honor ! The Convention could
scarcely have deemed him a very dangerous man ; if, indeed, they
were not staggered by his arguments, which is understood to have
been the fact.
The interesting essay which follows, is a pleasing specimen
of refined sentiment, and chaste writing. It appears to have been
" written at Kinderhook, and occasioned by a particular conversa
tion, in August, 1777."
" 'Nullius addictus jurare in verba magistri.'
" Civil wars arise from a difference of opinion between mem
bers of the same political community, respecting the extent of the
reciprocal rights and duties of the sovereign power, and its sub
jects. When the one side thinks the rule of right has been trans
gressed by government to a certain degree, they resist what they
think a usurpation, or an unlawful exercise of power ; the other
side, conceiving no wrong done, or not to a degree to justify resist
ance, supports, or at least adheres to the government. We all
know that governments have been opposed without sufficient cause
in some instances, and in others they have been supported when
there was cause to justify resistance. The precise dividing points
between the lawfulness and the criminality of opposition cannot
be ascertained ; it being a question mixed of right and fact, and
as different minds will draw different conclusions in the balancing
of facts, they will apply the rule of right differently, and hence
it is no wonder there should be a contrariety of sentiment.
" That legitimate governments should be supported, and that
tyranny may be opposed, are principles equally incontestable; but
what in fact is the one or the other, is .left to the private judgment of
every individual, who is accountable for his errors either in foro
conscientue, as for the violation of a moral duty, or in foro humano,
as for the transgression of some civil obligation, or in both, accord
ing to the nature of the case.
" If it be true, in the abstract, that government should be sup
ported until it violates its contract with the people, then, to charge
a man with want of principle who refuses to join in opposition to
it, is illiberal ; to punish him, is intolerance and persecution. On
the other hand, if it is true in the abstract, that government may be

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 87
opposed when it transgresses to a certain degree, then, to charge the
supporters of opposition, in a particular case, with want of princi
ple, merely for that opposition, or merely for pursuing measures
necessarily connected with it, is equally illiberal, though, for the
reasons hereafter mentioned, punishment may be justifiable from
the necessity of the case.
" We may think our opponents wrong, and be justifiable in think
ing them so, but it is uncharitable to charge them with want of
principle for their difference in opinion from us. A man may err,
and yet, having taken all due pains to inform his mind, he may be
innocent. As when he acts against the light of his own conviction,
he is in a moral view criminal, though he should even take the side
which in itself is right. How, then, are we to act, and by what
rule shall we determine which of the contending parties is right 1
The answer is plain : we must impartially consider the question,
and found the dictates of our own judgment upon the result of a
fair inquiry. If we err, having taken due means of information, it
is not our fault, but our weakness — humanum est errare et nescire.
May then both parties be right 1 No, but individuals may be inno
cent on either side, though opposites. Hampden and Falkland
took opposite sides, but who so bigoted as to charge either with
want of principle in the part he acted 1
" Has a man a right, then, to charge me with acting a corrupt
part because he is fully convinced of the justice of his own cause,
and the error of mine 1 The negative of this is evident, because I
may insist upon the same right myself against him ; but should I do
so, he would charge me with violating the sacred right of private
judgment, and so do I him. I would ask, who has constituted you
the judge of the rule of right for me, and what claim have you to
infallibility 1 Do you not differ in opinion as much from me as I
do from you, and have I not as much right to blame you as you
have me for this difference 1 In short, every one of your charges
may be retorted on yourself, and this should teach you a lesson of
toleration and forbearance, of doing as you would be done by, and
of judging as you would be judged of.
" However, this charitable construction of the motives of our
opponents can obtain only while they pursue fair means — rectum
recte, legitimum legitime. But when they are guilty of using

88 THELIFEOF
means which no end can justify, being in themselves bad, and
opposite to the natural or revealed laws of God, we must then
consider their actions as stronger indications of the temper of their
minds than words, and form an estimate of them accordingly ; but
even then it may be well for us to reflect, whether some irregu
larities may not proceed from the difficulty of the times, and the
frailty of human nature, rather than any peculiar depravity of heart,
and to recur to the history of other ages and countries, wherein
examples have not been wanting of persons of eminent characters,
yielding to the violence of the times, in violation of their better
principles. " This much may suffice, considering this subject in a moral view,
and how far we may, consistent with the principles of Christian
charity, charge those differing from us with being influenced by
wicked motives; — what conduct may be observed towards them as
members of society, is quite another question.
" In civil wars, I hold it there can be no neutrality ; in mind I
mean. Every man must wish one side or the other to prevail, and
if it was in his power to make the scale preponderate, he would
not withhold his mite. If possibly there should be some excep
tions, they are so few as rather to prove than invalidate the princi
ple ; and these singular cases cannot be an object of general regu
lation. The ruling powers, therefore, have a right to consider
every person, who does not join them in action, as averse to them
in opinion ; which will appear the more reasonable, as civil com
motions are of such a nature as to give life and activity to the
most powerful affections of the human mind.
" Have they then a right to punish a mere difference of senti
ment ? By no means. Punishment, as such, is due only to overt
acts, to the transgression of some known law ; and that there may
be a strict neutrality in practice, is beyond dispute.
" Here a distinction occurs between the rights of the govern
ment which is resisted, and of those in power making the resist
ance. The latter can only be considered a voluntary association,
having right to command the active personal services of such alone
as have joined them, though they may punish the transgressions
and overt acts of others committed within their jurisdiction ; but it
is their indispensable duty, to permit every man to join the side of

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 89
government who chooses it ; or if, for prudential reasons, they would
restrain the adherents of government from this their undoubted
right of election, they ought to exempt such from the active obe
dience of subjects, and at most consider them as prisoners of war,
and lay them under restraints proper to that situation ; but in this,
as in every other instance of power exerted by one fellow creature
over another born to equal rights, no further restraints are justifi
able than necessity, under all the circumstances of the case, requires
for the public safety.
" The old government, on the other hand, has a right to consider
all its former subjects still as such, and to punish the delinquents
against the laws of that government ; for when the rights of gov
ernment, as such, interfere with the private judgments of individ
uals, the latter, from the necessity of the case, and the impossibility
of reconciling, in this instance, public with private rights, must
yield ; always understood that persons refusing compliance are pun
ishable only according to the laws in being.
" When I speak of the rights of government, and of those in
resistance to it, it may be objected that right cannot be on both
sides ; that either the government is dissolved, and then its author
ity is at an end, or it is in force, and then opposition to it is rebel
lion. This requires explanation.
" That one side or the other is wrong is certain, because of
contradictory propositions one or the other must be false ; but to
decide which this is, is in the power of Omniscience alone : with
us it is matter of opinion only ; in our opinions we differ, and to
the Almighty is the appeal made. Before the decision is made,
we can only say that we have a full persuasion, and that our
minds are fully convinced, and according to that persuasion and
that conviction that we have embraced our side. Our opponents
claim the same right, and with equal justice ; nor can either party
justly charge with want of principle, or punish the other, merely
for this difference of sentiment. Till the end of the contest, there
fore, we may speak of the right of either party though in direct
opposition to each other, treason and loyalty being one thing
with the one party, and the reverse with the other.
" Government asserts its authority and insists upon the resist
ance to be rebellion ; every thing, therefore, that a government
12

90 THELIFEOF
can lawfully do to quell a rebellion, I term right in a relative
sense. The opposition declare the government dissolved, and the
subjects therefore released from their allegiance ; every thing, there
fore, that a people in such a case have a right to do, I also call
justifiable ; I mean while the war is depending, for if the end is
just, (which the case supposes,) the means necessary* to effect it
cannot be wicked. But as soon as the contest is ended, then
every thing done by the vanquished party, by a retrospective view,
is tainted with guilt. If the government fail, it is then a revolu
tion by the abolition of arbitrary power ; if the other, it is then
treason against legal government.
" But is the event always right? have the asserters of freedom
never failed, and have tyrants never succeeded 1 God forbid this
should be as asserted ; history is full of the most glorious efforts
proving abortive, and of the most flagitious which have been
crowned with unmerited success. I only declare how these mat
ters really operate, and how in fact and from the necessity of the
case, they are considered among mankind, when there is no
earthly umpire between the contending parties.
" But our opinions we still may enjoy unaltered by the event,
and if they have been formed with due care, and been supported
only by justifiable means, we shall stand acquitted for them at the
solemn tribunal of the Searcher of hearts, though we may suffer
for them here, where our motives cannot be known, and where our
actions are to be canvassed by judges fallible as ourselves.
" It may be said, that if every man has a right to judge for him
self of the side he is to take, and if we may not justly charge him
with acting from corrupt motives because we cannot pry into them,
how can any man be liable to punishment, which can only be in
flicted for acts of the will, and not for errors of the understanding,
if he fails 1 Does the nature of the action vary from the acciden
tal circumstances of its being successful or otherwise 1 To this I
answer, that I only insist that we have no right to charge him with
* " It cannot be inferred from this, that every means of every kind, without
regard to the principles of natural justice and the laws of nations, are au-
thorized ; on the contrary, it can only be understood to mean lawful means,
measured by those established rules : for when an end can be attained only
by means in themselves unlawful, that end is itself unjustifiable The prop-
ositidn must always be understood in a moral as well as physical sense."

PETER VAN'SCHAACK. 91
moral turpitude;' his motives can be known only to the Supreme
Being, and by him only punished. But, as a member of society,
be his intentions never so pure, he is amenable to those known
laws which he has transgressed. Human judicatories cannot judge
of his motives, as such, but they may and must judge of his actions,
or there is an end of society ; and according to what laws will his
conduct be tried, but according to the laws and rules of that power
which has the sword 1
" Upon the whole, I contend only against a spirit of intole
rance, which in theory opposes the doctrine of Christian charity,
(a doctrine so friendly to this state of human infirmity,) and in
practice leads directly to persecution ; nor under pretence of mutual
toleration and forbearance, would I wrest from the civil magis
trate either the ' balance or the rod.' I would hold up his jurisdic
tion in its full extent, and though a man acted from motives pure
as an angel's, yet if in practice he violated the laws of the society
he lives in, he is a proper object of punishment.
'If I am right, O, teach my heart
Still in the right to stay ;
If I am wrong, thy grace impart
To find that better way !' "
We find upon this production the following indorsements, made
by Mr. Van Schaack, at different periods.
" New-York, 1st Oct., 1778.
'Hoc tempore nihil scribi aid agi potest, quod non pateat ca
lumnies ; nee rarofit, ut dum agis circumspectissime, utramque par
tem offendas, quum in utraque pariter insaniant.' Erasmus.
" London, 8th Sept., 1779.
' The conversation we have had, as well as the reflections of
my own mind on past events, would, if I were condemned to my
body again, teach me great moderation, in my judgment of per
sons who might happen to differ from me in difficult scenes of pub
lic action : they would entirely cure me of the spirit of party, and
make me think that, as in the church so also in the state, no evil
is more to be feared than a rancorous and enthusiastic zeal.' —
Litt. Dial, of the Bead., — Lord Falkland and Mr. Hampden.

92 THELIFEOF
' In faith and hope the world will disagree,
But all mankind's concern is charity.
All must be false that thwart this one great end,
And all of God that bless mankind, or mend.' — Pope.
' Both acting out of principle, and equally men of honor.'—
Pope. ' Parties ran so high, in the reign of Queen Anne, as to allow
no commendation to an opposite in politics.' — Warb. Not. on Pope's
Essay on Criticism.
'We see men at their whole length in history, and we see
them generally there, through a medium less partial at least than
that of experience ; for I imagine, that a whig or a tory, whilst
those parties subsisted, would have condemned in Saturninus the
spirit of faction which he applauded in his own tribunes, and would
have applauded, in Drusus, the spirit of moderation which he
despised in those of the contrary party, and which he suspected
and hated in those of his own.' — Bolingb. Lett. 11th on History—
Vattel, Vol. II. p. 108 seq.
Great was the terror and dismay into which the inhabitants of
the city of Albany and of the surrounding country were thrown,
in the months of August, September and October, 1777. Colonel
St. Leger, with the forces under his command, composed chiefly of
Indians, was invading the State by way of Oswego and- the Mo
hawk river. General Burgoyne, with a formidable army, was
approaching Albany by way of Lake Champlain, and the British
fleet under Sir Henry Clinton, having on board a strong land force,
were preparing to ascend the Hudson. The Albany committee,
" in consideration of the present distressed situation of the country,"
voted, that the welfare of the State required that the Council of
Safety should come and sit at Albany ; and they " resolved, that
the quarter-master and the committee appointed to take the lead
out of the windows, do immediately enter upon that necessary
business." In October, as the British forces from'New-York were
moving up the Hudson river, with a view to a junction with Gen
eral Burgoyne, laying waste all before them, the terrified inhabit
ants of Albany were fleeing, in all directions, for escape from the
advancing foe.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 93
The retreat of St. Leger, in the latter part of August, and the
consequent relief of Fort Schuyler and the Mohawk valley, was
succeeded, in October, by the more decisive capture of the British
army, at Saratoga. This gave a new and flattering aspect to
American affairs. The latter event called into exercise that magna
nimity, and noble generosity, which formed such prominent traits in
the character of Philip Schuyler. Upon no occasion were these
enviable characteristics of that remarkable man, and brave soldier —
to whose memory the literature of his country has not yet awarded
the justice of a biography — more conspicuous, than when the for
tunes of war had placed in his power an overbearing foe. Upon the
surrender of General Burgoyne, and the royal army under his com
mand, to the American forces at Saratoga, General Schuyler made
studious provision for the comfort of the distinguished captive, with
some other British and German officers, under his own hospitable
roof at Albany, whither they were conducted soon after the capitu
lation. These guests, it should be remembered, had but a few days
before applied the torch to the valuable mills, country seat, and
other buildings at Saratoga, of their now attentive host.
The British General entered Albany in a very different man
ner from that which he had anticipated. Flushed by his early
successes in his progress from the North, he had in his windy man
ifestos proclaimed an easy victory ; and he was understood to have
boasted of his ability to secure " elbow-room" for his troops, to the
contemplated point of junction of the two royal armies. When he en
tered that city as a prisoner of war, instead of a " conquering hero,"
the progress of the procession was suddenly retarded in a confined
passage of one of the streets, by the immense concourse of citizens,
who turned out en masse to behold the joyful spectacle. At this
juncture, a spirited Dutch matron, standing at the door of her
dwelling, and in hearing of the humbled Briton, called out to the
crowd, (with perhaps as much rudeness as severity,) " Make el
bow-room for General Burgoyne."
A little incident, also, occurred during the stay of Burgoyne and
his officers at General Schuyler's, which is worthy of mention.
Major General the Baron de Reidesdel, one of those officers, was
accompanied by his lady, and several young children. Not long
after their arrival, one of Madame De Reidesdel's little girls, after

94 THELIFEOF
frolicking about General Schuyler's spacious and well-furnished
mansion, ran up to her mother, and with all the simplicity of youth
ful innocence, inquired in German : " Mother, is this the palace
father was to have when he came to Am erica ?" The blushing
Baroness speedily silenced her child. The teeming question, which
was asked in presence of some of General Schuyler's family, by
whom the German was understood, as may be imagined, was well
calculated to disconcert her.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 95

CHAPTER V.
The state of Mrs. Van Schaack's health, which for some time
previous had been gradually declining, became very alarming in
March, 1778. She was exceedingly desirous of visiting the city of
her nativity, and, in the peculiar state of her mind, it was also the
opinion of her physicians, that her native air and proximity to the
sea might produce more beneficial effects than all the powers of
medicine. The city of New-York was then a British garrison, intercourse
with Avhich was inhibited. Under these circumstances, Mr. Van
Schaack made application to the Governor of New-York, for per
mission to visit the city with his suffering wife. The correspondence
on this subject, which was carried on through Mr. Jay, (who was
the Governor's private secretary,) is interesting in itself, and as
elucidating the privations of civil wars.
TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, lBth March, 1778.
Sir: The declining state of health, which Mrs. Van Schaack has long
labored under, and which of late has become more threatening in
consequence of a violent cough, slow fever, and other consumptive
symptoms, has made her extremely anxious to go down to New-
York and Long Island, in hopes that the change of air and the
sight of her friends, may contribute to her recovery from a disorder
which has hitherto baffled the power of medicine. In consequence
of her importunity, therefore, I take the liberty of troubling you
with the delivery of the inclosed petition to the Governor.
I own to you, sir, I have felt some embarrassments on this occa
sion, and would have prevailed on her to make the application for
herself only ; but as she declines going without me, on account of

96 THELIFEOF
her precarious situation, and the uneasiness of mind which, in those
circumstances, in absence she would labor under ; and as her go
ing down is nevertheless recommended by her physicians as prom
ising very salutary effects, I have determined at least not to be
wanting to myself, and to save my mind from that regret which I
should feel in case of a calamity, which I might hereafter have
reason to think I had omitted any means in my power to prevent.
I therefore trust this to your candid interpretation of the true
motives of it, assuring you that I am, from principle, as much as
any person can be, averse from soliciting any thing of a gentleman
in a public character, which it would be inconsistent with his
station to comply with ; nor would I either insult your character,
or expose my own weakness by any application which would
savor of this ; for of all men I know it would be most ineffectual
with you. But, though there may be considerations superior even
to those of humanity to individuals, yet when both can be recon
ciled, a benevolent mind will not want inducements to seek the
occasions of doing it ; and I flatter myself examples have not been
wanting, in similar cases, and in ages not more enlightened, and
in nations not more civilized, to justify either the request or the
granting of it. Anxious, however, to preserve a consistency of
conduct, I have considered this application under all the circum
stances which my imagination could suggest, and as I cannot per
ceive that I desire any thing which, were our situations reversed, I
would not readily admit, I stand at least acquitted to myself; but
as you are the proper judge of the propriety of your interference in
this matter, should you be of a different opinion, I shall acquiesce,
and trust I shall find resources in my mind to support me under
every misfortune not incurred by my own fault, or wilful neglect,
which may befall me.
Should it be thought material to inquire into Mrs. Van
Schaack's real situation, Dr. Bard, who has seen her, can give the
necessary information ; and if the request is admissible, I will cheer
fully enter into any engagements which may be required from rea
sons of a public nature.
I am, with great esteem,
Sir, your most ob't humble serv't,
Peter Van Schaack.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 97
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Poughkeepsie, 26th March, 1778.
Dear Sir :
Your favor of the 18th inst. has been received, and the petition
it covered delivered to his Excellency the Governor. I am request
ed by him to inform you, that however desirous he may at all times
be to comply with the dictates of humanity, yet that prudence for-
. bids all communication with the enemy except such as reasons of
state may warrant. As the Legislature are now sitting, and you
have his Excellency's license to come to this place, he thinks an
application to them would be more proper, especially as questions
might possibly arise respecting the prudence, and perhaps the au
thority of a governor, in consenting to a measure which private
considerations only may render proper ; and the more so, as a pre
cedent of this kind would open a door to many applications of
a similar nature, though perhaps less proper to be complied
with. The Governor will readily transmit any open letters you may
write to your friends in New-York, and permit medicine, and the
like necessaries, to be sent from thence to you. Nor will he have
any objection to give you and Mrs. Van Schaack a pass to go to
any place not in the possession or vicinity of the enemy, which
you may think more friendly to her health.
I sincerely sympathize with you, on the condition of Mrs. Van
Schaack's health. Be so kind as to present my best respects to
her. I am, dear sir, your most obedient servant, iJohn Jay.
TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 30th March, 1778.
Dear Sir:
I received your favor of the 26th inst., and am sorry to find
that my request has been rejected. However, as my expectations
were not very sanguine, the disappointment is not so great to me
as to Mrs. Van Schaack, who had flattered herself with hopes, from
viewing only the humane side of the question, without entering
13

98 THELIFEOF
into those reasons which a peculiar combination of circumstances
may render unanswerable. The only ground upon which I expected
to succeed, was an assurance that I would remove every objection
which might be made in my own particular case, by engagements
which I hope I shall always think binding.
My addressing the Governor on this occasion, and not the
Legislature, was not any effect of designed omission of any
rule of propriety or form, for my first intention was to have ad
dressed the latter ; but on recurring to the terms in which the order
of the late convention relative to me, and my parole in con
sequence thereof, are conceived, it appeared to me that I was
more immediately under the direction of the executive power.
However, as his Excellency has a delicacy about interposing in
this matter, I shall not again trouble him on the subject, and the
rather as I feel the highest sense of his polite and humane atten
tion to the distressed situation of my family, in granting me his
indulgence in the instances you mention; nor will Mrs. Van
Schaack's extreme weakness admit of my leaving her to make an
application to the Legislature ; indeed, sir, I could not leave her a
night without great uneasiness. I do not, however, despair entirely
of her recovering a little more strength, and as riding and a change
of air would be conducive to her health, I shall avail myself of his Ex
cellency's kind offer of a pass, upon the first favorable appearance.
The sea-coast would be preferable, but this will be impracticable
for several months; my present plan, therefore, extends only to
this and Dutchess county, and the western towns of the Massachu
setts Bay, and I hope this will not be disagreeable to his Excel
lency. '' In consequence of the Governor's indulgence, I beg leave to
trouble you with an open letter to a friend in New-York, contain
ing a memorandum of things, which in some form or other are
almost all prescribed for her use. However, if there is any objec
tion to it from its being more extensive than was designed, I am
content to abridge it. If, on the other hand, the whole should be
thought too trifling to be noticed, as I hope will be the case, and
should there be any articles Mrs. Jay might wish to have, I should
be glad they might be added, either by increasing the quantities of
what I have written for, or by adding others. If the Governor

I I,

PETERVANSCHAACK. 99
consents to the letter going down, I should be happy it might be
known at the posts below that the things to be sent have his
Excellency's license.
Mrs. Van Schaack begs her compliments to you and Mrs. Jay,
and thanks you for all the trouble you take on her account.
I am, respectfully, dear sir,
Your most ob't serv't,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Dear Sir :
Your favor of the 30th ult. this instant arrived. I have in
closed it to the Governor in statu quo, and have no doubt of its being
as successful as our stockings formerly were, under the auspices of
your tutelar saint. Your offer of additions is very obliging. It
will not be long before I visit Albany, and I have too good a mem
ory to forget the hospitable house on the hill. I hope the pipes
will get there before me.
The wise ones say we shall all go to New-York next winter.
I pray God that Mrs. Van Schaack may yet find herself very well
there. I verily believe that a little riding, sailing, laughing, &c,
would be, of infinite service to her.
An inflammation in my eyes, has for some days confined me
here. On Monday I shall be at Poughkeepsie. Any services in
my power, command ; I mean never to forget my friends, however
different our noses, or sentiments may be.
Adieu. I am sincerely yours, &c, John Jay.
P. S. Mrs. Jay is a little indisposed. Be pleased to present
her and my compliments to Mrs. Van Schaack.
TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 6lh April, 1778.
Dear Sir :
Nothing would give me greater pleasure, than your promise of
a visit in your way to Albany. You have anticipated my request,
but not my wishes for this favor, which I intended to have solicited
when I last wrote you, but — in short, you will know my feelings

4-

100 V- THE LIFE OF
Hi
better than I can describe them. Most sincerely do I wish the
prediction of the wise ones may be verified ; — once more to enjoy
those social and rational hours, of which you and I have passed so
many together, would be the height of my wishes. I could then
say nunc dimittis, or rather I might wish to live forever. A recol
lection of those happy scenes, of our clubs, our moots and our
Broadway evenings, fills me with pleasing, melancholy reflections
—fuimus Troes,fuit Ilium. I shall have a pipe for you, though
not of those sent for. The house on the hill never had a more
heartily welcome guest, than will be my old friend to the present
tenants of it.
Your friendly offer of services is very flattering to me. — I never
doubted your friendship ; yet I own that was not the ground upon
which I expected to succeed in my late application, and I verily
believe, with the same knowledge of your character, I should have
ventured to make the same request of you, though I had been a
stranger to your person. As a man, I know you would espouse
the petition, if public considerations did not oppose it ; and if they
did, I knew no friendship would be sufficient to prevail on you
to do it.
As I should be glad to be at Albany when you make your
public exhibition, if Mrs. Van Schaack's health will admit of my
absence, I wish you would bring with you the pass his Excel
lency was pleased to consent to give me, which will prevent the
necessity of troubling him again. Mrs. Van Schaack desires her
compliments to you and Mrs. Jay, who, we hope, will accompany
you up. She is somewhat better than she has been, and if you can
but persuade her that her recovery may be effected without going
to New- York, it will be doing her an essential service, though the
task may be a little difficult. I am sorry you did not agree to
make the proposed additions, though I hope you will have no ob
jection to a division, if my tutelary saint should smile on my ad
venture. I am, with great respect,
Your most obed't servant,
Peter Van Schaack.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 101
TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 15th April, 1778.
Dear Sir :
It is no less painful to me, than I fancy will be disagreeable to
you, the subject of this, and of my former letters. When I wrote
you last, Mrs. Van Schaack's situation put on some favorable ap
pearances, from which I was flattered with the hope that she
would be enabled to make such excursions as might supply the
want of a jaunt to her native place. These were, however, of
short duration, and have been succeeded by symptoms which
threaten her in the most imminent manner. All ceremony, on my
part, was now to give way to the emergency of the occasion, and
I determined, as the last resource, to address the Legislature ; un
fortunately, I heard to-day that they have adjourned ; but suppo
sing that some of the members competent to this business may be
sitting during their recess, I still send my petition.
Having fully weighed this matter, I can conceive of no objec
tions which may not be obviated, and the design of this letter is to
tell you, that haying in view nothing but the hope of prolonging
my wife's" life, or of making her last days more satisfactory to her
self, I am willing to enter into the most sacred engagements, and
to submit to the most particular restrictions with respect to my
conduct, and that I will totally abstain from every kind of political
conversation, and neither communicate any intelligence, nor re
port any upon my return, but merely confine my jaunt to its true
and only purport — the making a trial of its efficacy towards re
storing her health. Should any thing be attempted to be drawn
from me, repugnant to the true meaning of those for whose satis
faction this would be done, which, however, I cannot think, there
is no severity I would not undergo, sooner than, in the least de
gree, to violate an engagement voluntarily made, justifiable in
every view, and productive of a benefit so essential to me.
My being thus particular, arises not from vanity or ostenta
tion, nor from a supposition of any ability in me to injure the pub
lic measures ; much less would I have it thought to imply a con
cession that I would wish to do so, but because I know that in
times like those we live in, jealousies are natural. But, fears and

102 THELIFEOF
apprehensions which are to obstruct a measure otherwise reasona
ble, with men of sense will have some object : this object, in the
present case, I would endeavor to discover, and am willing to ob
viate, be it what it will, so far forth as any engagements on my
part can do it. I could therefore wish that you would consider
this matter, and if any possible method can be devised to gratify
Mrs. Van Schaack, that you will endeavor to effect it. I cannot
think that her wish is the effect of caprice, though it is certain
that the desires of diseased persons have often repaid the temporary
uneasiness they have occasioned, by contributing, when gratified,
to a lasting cure ; but in this case, sir, her physicians urge reasons
of the most cogent nature, of which I could transmit you proofs if
they were .not premature, till I know whether, if proved, the fact
would be deemed material.
I would not by any means make observations which might
give offence; but what danger can arise from this measure1?
what intelligence can I gjve 1 are not persons daily going to and
fro, (and must not this necessarily be so in time of war?) who
from their stations have opportunities to acquire information which
I cannot be supposed to have, and who go free from restrictions
which I will submit to 1 Indeed, I have heard of instances of per
sons being permitted, in Jersey, to go in on parole to see their
friends. That your confidence has been often abused, I do not
doubt ; this is a common complaint in private life, as well as pub
lic ; but an indiscriminating distrust cannot from thence be inferred
to be either politic or just.
From the tenor of my application, you will understand that my
fixed determination is to return, nor are there any considerations
relative to myself merely, to induce me to wish to go on any other
terms. It must be a hard alternative indeed, that would prevail on
me to quit my native country. Prospects of pecuniary advantages
I think would not tempt me ; indeed, were 1 inclined to urge con
siderations relative to myself, my own state of health, affected as it
is in a very tender organ, might perhaps justify me in extending
the grounds of my application.
The bearer carries my petition, concerning the delivery of
which I wish you to give him directions, unless you will take the
charge of it ; but this I do not urge, as I assure you I shall not take

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 103
it amiss if you decline it, as interfering in any manner with your
delicacy. I have that confidence in you, that I shall acquiesce in
your determination on this head, without murmuring. Possibly his
Excellency, in the recess of the Legislature, might be willing to
grant the petition. I am, with great respect, dear sir,
Your most obedient, humble servant,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Poughkeepsie, 18th April, 1778.
Dear Sir :
Your favor of the fifteenth inst. came to hand last evening. I
am fully impressed with a sense of your unfortunate situation, and
should be happy were it in my power to alleviate the pain and
anxiety it must give you. I delivered your petition, and read
your letter to 'me, to his Excellency this morning. He regrets the
necessity which opposes a compliance with your request ; but still
thinks it his indispensable duty to prevent all intercourse between
the inhabitants and the enemy, except such as reasons of state may
dictate. His objections do not in this instance arise from distrust.
He means to make it a general rule, that no citizen shall, with his
permission, go to the enemy on private business and return. He
desires me to assure you, that there is no gentleman in this State
to whom he would grant the indulgence in question ; but that he
will nevertheless be always ready to do you any kind office, which
may not contravene the principles by which his administration is
directed. Endeavor to prevail, then, my dear sir, on Mrs. Van Schaack,
to suspend a fruitless anxiety to visit her former habitation. The
time may yet come, and perhaps is not far distant, when that
natural desire may be gratified, and when she may again partake
of those social enjoyments of which these turbulent times have
deprived so many. I should have enlarged, but company this
moment comes in, and constrains me to conclude this letter.
I am, dear sir, with every friendly wish,
Yours, &c. John Jay.

104 THE LIFE OF
Mrs. Van Schaack was a member of the Protestant Episcopal
Church^and she had advanced far in her Christian attainments.
Her removal to the country had deprived her of many religious
privileges, which she had enjoyed in the city of New- York, and
she sighed for their return, and for the opportunities of public wor
ship, and of the ordinances of the church. Several extracts from
her letters of a somewhat earlier date, to a female friend in New-
York, written during her residence at Kinderhook, will illustrate
the state of her mind, and the deprivations for which she mourned :
" Christmas.
" May grace, mercy and peace be multiplied unto you, my be
loved sister ! May you ever serve the Lord, but especially at this
jbyful season, when the great God of Heaven deigned to take our
nature upon him, and to redeem us from the power of the devil,
and make us heirs of eternal glory. Amazing love ! Unparal
leled condescension ! O, may our hearts be suitably impressed !
How happy are you that have it in your power to attend the ordi
nances of God — to hear his most holy word. This I am deprived of.
I have not so much as one experienced person to converse with,
and sometimes doubt whether I ever shall have again. * * * How
suddenly were my hopes blasted ! Deprived at one stroke of al
most every earthly comfort ! My church ! My friends ! My
children ! My native place and little family ! * * * Do write me
a long letter. Encourage me in the way of my duty. You are
capable of it, my valuable friend, and I stand in much need of it.
I am destitute of any place of public worship. 0, the blessed
privileges which I once enjoyed! I often with tears repeat the
words of the Psalmist :
'I sigh, whene'er my musing thoughts
Those happy days present,
When I, with troops of pious friends,
God's temple did frequent.'"
In further illustration of the hardships and privations growing
out of the distrust excited by a state of civil war, (and which is not
one of the least of its horrors,) the following circumstances may be
mentioned :

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 105
Attached to the medical staff of the British army captured at
Saratoga, was a Doctor Hayes, a gentleman eminent for skill in
his profession. He accompanied Majors Ackland and Harnage,
and the other wounded British officers, from Saratoga to Albany,
where he remained for some time. His professional services were
not confined to the army at that place, and the information of his
great medical skill led to his employment by the citizens of Alba
ny, in many critical cases, while his urbanity and gentlemanly de
portment endeared him to the inhabitants. He had been consulted
in regard to Mrs. Van Schaack's case, and, a few days previous to
her death, application was made to General the Marquis de la
Fayette, who was then temporarily in command of the northern
military department, for permission to Doctor Hayes to visit her,
in her then critical state of health, at her residence in Kinderhook,
twenty miles distant from Albany. The Committee of Safety in- ,
terfered with the Commanding General to prevent the excursion,
and the humane purpose was thus defeated. This estimable lady
died, at Kinderhook, a few days afterwards, — an occurrence to her
afflicted husband, under all the circumstances, of the most heart
rending character.*
* A touching account of the last moments of Mrs. Van Schaack, committed
to paper by Mr. V. S. at the time, contains the following paragraph : " She
asked me when Mr. Jay was expected here. She wished me to convince him
She harbored no resentment for the refusal of her request, [to visit New-
York.] I asked her whether she would not also forgive the committee, who
had refused to her physician leave to visit her. ' Yes, she forgave them and
every body.' Vide Appendix H.

14

106 THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER VI.
,.'vThe: state of Mr. Van Schaack's health was now such as to
demand his attention ; and he determined to make a voyage to
Europe, for the purpose of availing himself of the skill of an expe
rienced oculist, in an\ operation upon the cataract in his eye. In
view of the numerous severe and trying scenes through which he
, had passed, and the reflections arising from which were preying
upon his mind, a change of scene was highly desirable ; nor is it
'surprising, that with so many grievous afflictions pressing upon him,
his imagination should have " colored high and shaded deep" upon
the public measures, as suggested in Mr. Jay's answer to the fol
lowing letter TO JOHN JAY. Kinderhook, June 3d, 1778.
Dear Sir :
We were much disappointed in not seeing you on your return,
and the more so as I fear we cannot promise ourselves the plea
sure of a visit from you very soon. I intended, under your protec
tion, to have accompanied you part of the way down, but when all
hopes of seeing you were gone, I took upon me to ride as far as
Claverack, for which I flatter myself it will not be difficult to pro
cure an indemnity, if it be not justified by what has happened ;
however, I could wish to have a pass in form to ride about a little,
for which I once before wrote you in a letter that I suspect has
never reached you. My friends are continually recommending
little excursions, with which my judgment, more I assure you than
my inclination, coincides ; but this kind of amusement becomes
the more necessary, as I am directed to refrain from reading and
writing, which is a restraint peculiarly hard in my present situation;
but being calculated to avert a greater hardship, is to be submitted
to as much as possible.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 107
The disorder in my eye is now become so confirmed, as to ex
clude all hope of relief, but from the hand of an oculist. Under
such circumstances, my dear sir, and with the continual apprehen
sion of its communicating to the other eye, which would reduce me
to a condition infinitely more distressing to me than the terrors of
immediate death, what am I to do ? Could a request, on such 'an
occasion, to go to Europe, where alone I see a prospect of obtain
ing relief, be liable to misconstruction 1 God knows, I would most
cheerfully. waive the gratification of such a request, if I could be
freed from the necessity which may induce me to make it. I intend
ed to have discussed this matter fully, if I could have seen you, and
should have wished to hear your sentiments on the subject, before
I took any measure relative to it. I am far from expecting that I
should be exempt from the common inconveniences, or even cala
mities of the country ; but peculiar cases often admit of particular
attention, without infringing the justice due to the public, and pri
vate humanity is often found compatible with public safety.
Fearful of rendering my letters troublesome, by the frequency
of my applications, I shall break off.
I am, with great regard,
Dear sir, yours sincerely,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Poughkeepsie, 26th June, 1778.
Dear Sir :
It is but three days since your favor of the 3d instant was de
livered to me. A fair wind, good company, the prospect of a
short passage, and thereby avoiding the fatigue and inconvenience
of a journey by land, induced me to return from Albany by water.
The letter you mention to have written on the subject of a pass,
has never come to hand. On conversing with the Governor, yes
terday, on that subject, he told me he lately had the pleasure of
seeing you, and had settled that matter to your satisfaction.
I am of the number of those, who think exercise and change
of air and company, essential to your health. I might add a
third requisite — a mind at ease. The two first conduce to the
other. Misfortunes, and severe ones, have been your lot. The

108 THE LIFE OF
reflection that they happened in the course of a Providence that
errs not, has consolation in it. I fear, too, that your sensibility is
wounded by other circumstances — but these are wounds not to be
probed in a letter. Could we now and then smoke a few pipes
together, you would perhaps be in a better humor with many
things in this world, than I think you now are. I suspect your
imagination colors high and shades too deep ; but more of this an
other time. A voyage to Europe may as well be postponed, and
that for two good, reasons : first, because a passport will not be
attainable at present ; and secondly, because I believe delay will
not be attended with danger. My belief arises from the fol
lowing facts.
About five years ago, a blind Frenchman, who had been main
tained several years by the parish of Rye, was brought to my
brother. He had lost one eye fourteen, and the other five or six
years. The sight of both eyes was equally opaque, and both equally
useless. My brother chose to operate only on one at a time, but
told me it was of little consequence on which of the two, for that
the difference in the time was of no moment. He opened the
one which had been blind fourteen years. The man recovered
the sight of that eye, and requested the like operation on the other,
but my brother declined it, on account of the connection, or sym
pathy, which he said subsisted between the two.
You mistake me much, if you suppose the frequency of your
letters or applications, troublesome to me. I assure you it would
give me pleasure, were opportunities of being useful to you more
frequent than either. When you was last here, fourteen miles
more would have carried you to Fishkill. That little ride would
have been a gratification to me, and not unpleasant to you. What
detained you1? Was you not sure I would be glad to see you?
God bless you, and give you health.
I am, dear Peter, affectionately yours, &c, John Jay.
In the interval between the dates of the two preceding letters,
Mr. Van Schaack obtained permission from the Governor of New-
York to visit England, for the purpose before alluded to, as soon
as the state of the country should admit of it. An unexpected

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 109
event shortly afterwards occurred, to influence and accelerate his
departure from his native country, and to swell the bitter contents
of his already overflowing cup of afflictions.
On the thirteenth of June, 1778, the Legislature of New- York
passed the Banishing Act* By this act, the commissioners of con
spiracies were required " to cause all such persons of neutral and
equivocal characters in this State, whom they shall think have
influence sufficient to do mischief in it," to come before them, and
to administer to them an oath, the purport of which was, that the
individual believed and acknowledged the State of New-York to
be, of right, a free and independent State. In case of a refusal to
take the oath, the commissioners were required to remove the in
dividuals within the enemy's lines, and their names were to be
recorded in the office of the Secretary of State.
One of the penalties prescribed by the act, was, that all the lands
which the person proceeded against held, on the 26th of June, or
should subsequently acquire, should forever thereafter be charged
with " double taxes." The banishment, also, was to be perpetual,
and a return to the State subjected the exile to a conviction for
" misprision of treason."
On the eighteenth of July, Mr. Van Schaack appeared before
the commissioners, at Albany, upon their summons under this act,
and having refused to take the prescribed oath, an order was made
for his removal in pursuance of its provisions.
Justice demands at the hands of the author, the statement, that
the proceedings against the subject of this sketch, were not dictated
by motives of personal hostility. On the contrary, some, if not all
of the commissioners, were his personal friends, and they had taken
steps against him with great reluctance. They were not aware,
at the institution of these proceedings, of the permission of the Gov
ernor, and they assured Mr. Van Schaack, that had they known it,
they would not have summoned him, under the act. The com
missioners felt compelled to the course pursued, by the letter of the
statute ; and high as was their estimation of Mr. Van Schaack's
character, and great as was their friendship for him as an individual,
they did not feel at liberty to exempt him from proceedings positive-
* Vide Appendix I.

110 THE LIFE OF
ly enjoined by the Legislature, against all persons of " influence,"
who had observed a neutrality in the public struggles.
FROM LEONARD GANSEVOORT, JUNIOR.
Albany, 21st July, 1778.
Dear Sir:
Uncle Van Dyck told me that you was desirous of having a
copy of the act. Tnow inclose it, but whether it is correct or not
I cannot say, as I have no time to examine it. I also inclose you
an order of the board of commissioners ; as you are desirous of going
to New-York, there can be nothing disagreeable in it. I,' could
wish, however, that you had permission from the Go vernorf which
would take away the force of the act with respect to you. Those
gentlemen in town who have refused to take the oath, are served
with like orders.
I should be glad, as you purpose to leave this part of the world,
that you would furnish me with your account against me ; I shall,
if you leave directions, pay it to either of your brothers, or if you
choose to receive it yourself, you may have it at any time.
I am, dear sir, your friend and humble servant,
Leon. Gansevoort, Jun.
The writer of the foregoing letter was secretary to the board of
commissioners of conspiracies. He had been Mr. Van Schaack's
law-student, and had but just finished a course of legal studies in
his office, at New-York, when the Revolution broke out. The
order for his banishment bore the signature of the secretary, and
Mr. Van Schaack expressed his surprise to his young friend, and
-former pupil at finding his name to such a document, adding:
" Leonard ! you have signed my death-warrant ; but I appreciate
your motives."*
His views in regard to the statute under which proceedings
were had, against him, were committed to paper at the time.
" Observations on the Banishing Act of the Senate and As
sembly of the State of New-York, 1778.
* The subject of this sketch, at this time, no doubt looked upon his ban
ishment as a' perpetual exclusion from his native country, and as almost
equal to death itself. Whether he would ever be permitted to return to the
land of his birth, was matter dependent upon future and uncertain events,
and upon the unforeseen temper and measures of his countrymen.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. Ill
" The situation in which the persons within the description of
this act are placed, is such as will justify a critical examination
into the principles upon which it is framed ; for as it is descriptive
of such persons only as by the very act are supposed to be disaf
fected in sentiment to the public measures, and yet imposes an oath
which is directly repugnant to that sentiment, it is manifest that
they are placed in that most disagreeable of all predicaments, of
either forfeiting their property, or, by taking an oath opposite to
their principles, of sacrificing their integrity. A situation which,
when it is considered that it is brought on without any crime, and
only for an error in judgment, in a case wherein every person is not
only justifiable, but under the most sacred obligation of exercising
his own understanding, the humane mind will turn from with hor
ror ; and I doubt not but a proper investigation of the subject will
enable us to discover some radical error in this proceeding.
" It has been said, in the earlier part of this contest, (when we
were all subjects,) that even legislative powers were limited —
limited by the purposes for which they were delegated — that the
duties of sovereign and subject were reciprocal, and that the few
were raised above the many, not for the wanton display of arbitrary
power, but for the exercise of lawful authority for the permanent
benefit of society.
" I hope no man will be hardy enough to maintain, in word or
in practice, that these principles cease to be truths now, when
power has changed hands, or that we are in the miserable situation
of ancient Rome, (not in her youth, but in her dotage,) when the
contest was, not whether she should be free, but who should be her
master. It is the good of society, therefore, which alone can justify
acts of severity towards individuals ; but it does not follow from
hence, that the pretence of public good, however specious, is
' always a sufficient reason for severity, because there are rights of
individuals, the infringement of which even this cannot justify.
' Though punishments be productive of good,' (says the excel! ent Mar
quis Beccaria, whom I quote because his authority has the approba
tion of the Congress,) ' they are not on that account more just ; to be
just, they must be necessary.' * Even an useful injustice,' (he adds,)
' can never be allowed by a legislator who means to guard against
watchful tyranny, which, under the flattering pretext of momentary

112 THE LIFE OF
advantages, would establish permanent principles of destruction,
and to procure the ease of a few, in a high situation, would draw
tears from thousands of the poor.' We have, then, a rule whereby
to judge of the equity of punishments ; a rule, which, while it
allows the sovereign every thing which society was intended to
bestow upon him, views at the same time, with a tender eye, the
rights of individuals.
" The tendering an Oath, involving in it certain speculative
principles, and matters of opinion in a contested question, under the
penalty of banishment and confiscation of properly, is a severe
attack upon the weakness of human nature, and lays a strong
temptation for perjury. There are .characters who will perhaps
take this oath without hesitation, however abhorrent it may be
from their principles ; and even a good man, in so hard a struggle
between duty to God, and affection to an innocent family, who will
be involved in his ruin, may sink under the weight of the trial.
Numbers, therefore, may be tempted to swear, but what security
will the public derive from it, is the material question. If the
propositions held up in the oath are agreeable to their principles,
it adds no obligations to allegiance which did not previously exist;
if opposite, is it in point of conscience obligatory? This is a
delicate subject, to which I am not led by choice, but impelled by
necessity. " I have always understood — and if it is an error, it being a
very material one in its consequences, I wish to have it rectified —
that an oath to do that which is unlawful, that is repugnant to a
duty previously existing, either divine or human, is not Obligatory;
and that the lawfulness or unlawfulness, in this case, depends
entirely upon the conceptions of the juror, so as to affect the
morality of the action, or the binding force of the oath. Thus,
therefore, in the present case, it -would be nugatory,ias creating no
obligation to the observance : but this is not all, for, according to
the highest authorities upon the subject of natural religion, the sin
of taking an oath, which in the opinion of the juror is unlawful,
would be so far from being expiated by the performance of it, that
this would be a high aggravation.
" If neutrality merely be a cause of suspicion, then, if apt
taking the oath, a man should observe the same conduct, there

V-' PETER VAN SCHAACK. 113
will be additional cause to suspect him, and thus, instead of
removing suspicion, it would but increase it ; instead of creating a
motive to active services, it would but add to the restraints which
the person swearing in such circumstances previously labored under.
How far the above remarks are confirmed or invalidated by expe
rience, you best know ; you have had a trial of near two years, and
the number of proselytes you have made, may convince you of the
expedience of persevering in the measure.
" We may see, therefore, what good the public is to derive
from this severe punishment ; how far it is consistent with the jus
tice due to individuals, remains to be inquired. We are called
before a board for punishing conspirators, when we are acknow
ledged to be no conspirators ; before a board unknown to the con
stitution of this State, to be condemned without a trial, and to be
punished without a crime. The utmost extent of all that is alleged,
amounts to no more than a difference in opinion, and that in a
case wherein I have a right, and by the eternal laws of God am
bound, to exercise my private judgment, and wherein I should vio
late the most sacred obligations if I acted against the light of my
own conviction.
" Had you, at the beginning of the war, permitted every one
differing in sentiment from you, to take the other side, or at least
to have removed out of the State with their property, as they
unquestionably had a right to do ; it would have been a conduct
magnanimous and just. But now, after restraining those persons
from removing ; punishing them if in the attempt they were appre
hended ; selling their estates if they escaped ; compelling them to
the duties of subjects under heavy penalties ; deriving aid from
them in the prosecution of the war, in many cases while those
persons were actually deprived of the privileges of subjects ; at such
a time, when no imminent danger is apprehended, on the contrary,
when it is confidently said that the war is nearly at an end, now to
compel them to take an oath, which the very act supposes to be
incompatible with their principles, under the severe penalty of
confiscation of property, is an act of such complicated severity, that
it is impossible it should stand the examination of a dispassionate
hour. " It may be said, that a choice is given to these supposed delin-
15

114 THE LIFE OF
qifents; but who is he that will say, that in a question of duty or
morality, a man has the choice of performing, or renouncing it ?
The galley slave too has a choice, for he has full liberty to prefer
the oar or the lash. In March, 1777, likewise, such a choice was
given, and how that act was carried into execution, you can tell.
" But, while it, must appear astonishing, that your severity
should increase in proportion as your danger subsides, I am far
from thinking you should be wanting to yourselves. An oath
may be framed for persons within the description of this act, every
way securing the State, and which upon the principles of morality
and a well-informed conscience would be binding ; and this, being
the only restraint necessary, is the only one which is justifiable.
Complaints that this kind of oath has been violated, and that you
have been deceived by specious appearances, when calculated to
destroy all confidence, by proving too much prove nothing at all.
No argument can be drawn against the force of a lawful oath, from
the inefficiency of an unlawful one ; those who refuse to take the
one, are the very persons who would keep the other. Measures
calculated to make hypocrites, will naturally produce deception.
Have you never been deceived by persons who have taken the
oath of allegiance 1 why then do you impose it 1 Have you never
been deceived by persons active in your service 1 whom then will
you trust 1
"If it should be said, that the mere silent influence of persons
of character is dangerous to your cause, and therefore that they
ought to be removed ; supposing this to have weight, you ought
not, however, to add to their banishment any punishment affecting
their property. By removing the man, the measure of public jus
tice is full ; by adding to that punishment, it runs over. The one
derives its justice from a regard to self-preservation, which when
well-founded is right; the other is an act of vindictive justice,
which is due only to overt acts, and transgressions of known laws.
' Can there be a more melancholy spectacle,' (says the humane
Beccaria,) < than a whole family overwhelmed with misery from
the crime of their chief V
« There are not wanting,- 1 know, among the advocates of state
utility and state necessity, (though I hope there are none such
among us,) who would like penal acts the better, for perpetuating

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 115
their punishment down to the innocent posterity, ' to the end that
being always poor and necessitous, they may forever be ac
companied by the infamy of their father ; may languish in contin
ual indigence, and may find (says a certain merciless edict) their
punishment in living, and their relief in dying !'
" If these sanguinary proceedings are justly reprobated by every
humane writer, when directed against even a criminal and his
posterity ; in what terms would they express themselves, when the
same measure was directed against — not a criminal, but a man who
was not even accused of a crime, but solely blamable for a differ
ence of opinion, and for possessing a greater share of influence,
derived from the opinion entertained of his integrity, or abilities 1
Surely the constitution of this State must abhor such an idea ; for,
by allowing the ' free exercise and enjoyment of all religious pro
fessions without discrimination,' one religion is admitted, of which
the members we know, by its essential tenets, uphold a foreign
supremacy ; a religion, too, which we are assured by the highest
authority, has deluged our once parent country ' in blood, and dis
persed impiety, bigotry, persecution, murder, and rebellion through
every part of the world ;' and yet, to the exercise of even this re
ligion in common with the rest, the constitution has subjoined no
other restriction, than that it shall ' not authorize acts of licentious
ness, or justify practices inconsistent with the safety of the State.'
So liberal has it been towards the sacred rights of conscience and
private judgment, and so wise and consistent, that while it leaves
errors of the mind to the solemn tribunal of God, it reserves to the
civil magistrate only the cognizance of overt acts — matters not left
to dubious and constructive conjecture, but capable of certain and
unequivocal proof; not punishable by a board foreign to the
constitution, but triable by the laws of the land previously known,
and a jury of the criminal's peers.
" In every view, the present act carries with it an unusual
severity. The punishment of involuntary errors of the mind, can
be very rarely just, and they who consider that either party can
have no further assurance than their own fallible opinions and
conviction of their being right, will be very tender how they pun
ish their opponents, who do not carry their sentiments into prac
tices inconsistent with the peace and safety of the State. There

116 THE LIFE OF
are no reasons from which it can be shown, that a man may not
in principle adhere to the old government as well as support the
new, and the rule against neutrality in civil wars, necessarily ad
mits it. You ought, therefore, to have let them withdraw at the
commencement of the war, or if now you will compel them to it,
you should let them carry their property with them, or let them
dispose of it as they please."
In the writer ' of the following sympathetic letter, the reader
will recognize an eminent Whig, and a distinguished citizen, pos
sessing those sterling qualities which Mr. Van Schaack always
attracted to himself, and which gives to his friendships a peculiar
¦charm. FROM THEODORE SEDGWICK.
Sheffield, 12th August, 1778.
My dear Sir:
I have sent Hendrick for those things, a memorandum of which
I left with you ; as a bedstead will be difficultly obtained here,
I beg you to send the one belonging to the bed. Mrs. Sedgwick
would be glad to have a glass, the cost of which was from six to
eight pounds. If it cannot be safely sent with the other things,
(which I believe is the case,) I beg to have it put in some place
of security till winter. If one of your small tables can be spared,
I shall be glad of it. If your Parson would be kind enough to give
me the reading of Goldsmith's R. History, I shall be much obliged
to him. Pray send me the volume of Hume which you have. I
am sorry to give you any trouble about these matters, at a time
when your whole attention may be required to concerns of much
greater importance.
It is with extreme pleasure I reflect, that during the turbulency
of the times, I have preserved entire my friendship and esteem for
the worthy, who have been opposed to me in their political creed;
nor do I imagine that it is possible to select from the aggregate of
human follies and bigotry, a more sure and incontestable evidence
of the weakness of head and depravity of heart, than that narrow
and confined policy, which has for its end a uniformity of opinions,
whether political or religious. I wish my country happy, great,

peter van schaack. 117
and flourishing ; I wish her independent ; but that she may be
happy under the last, it is necessary that she become wise, virtu
ous, and tolerant. There is one way most certainly, to know
whether a state is or is not actuated by a spirit of freedom : let
the constitution be violated, in the person of a subject obnoxious
to popular resentment, or let his happiness be in any way sported
with ; if this gratifies popular, malignant malice, and no murmur-
ings or disturbances ensue, it is a sure indication that not only the
flame, but that every spark of liberty is extinct. The contest has
(God knows) been attended with distressing consequences enough ;
" light has begun to spring out of darkness." We now ought to
make even our enemies know and feel, that we had valuable ends
in view, in opposing the pretensions of Britain ; by rendering our
government sweet, it would become palatable ; in this way we
might, we may have a great and glorious revenge ; and all men,
almost, will wish for the salvation of that, (be it what it may,)
which is a constant source of happiness to them.
I shall expect by Hendrick to receive a letter from you ; if
there is any thing in which I can render service to any of the dear
little ones, or any other of your friends, pray mention it. When
I was at your house you said your oldest son had contracted a
great degree of bashfulness, since he left New-York ; if he can be
prevailed upon, perhaps it may not be disadvantageous for him to
spend some time with me. I have a young lad, the son of Mr.
Hopkins, who will be company for him, and may perhaps prevent
his pining for home. My good wife, my dear sir, has desired me
to tell you, she wishes you all the happiness which the warmest
imagination can desire.
I hope and believe your separation from your country and
friends, will be of short continuance ; in the mean time, may God
Almighty send you every comfort, deserved health, the smiles of
friends, and successful fortune. I am much mistaken, if it would
not be an unnecessary request to desire you to kindly and even af
fectionately remember, My dear friend,
Your sincerely affectionate
Theodore Sedgwick.

118 THE LIFE OF

TO THEODORE SEDGWICK.
Kinderhook, 13th Aug., 1778.
My dear Sir :
Hendrick goes off in the morning, but cannot carry all you
write for. What he takes is noted at bottom.
Your letter breathes the spirit and speaks the language of true
friendship. In the " melting mood," which in my present situation
I so often feel, when the remembrance of past happy days, and the
gloomy prospect of the future, agitate my mind, nothing can be
more agreeable than sentiments so congenial to those I feel for
you. From the first day of our acquaintance, my dear friend, I
felt for you sentiments of esteem which have continually grown
upon me. I was prepared to regard you, from what I had heard of
your liberality of mind, and I was not disappointed. God forbid
I should ever usurp the prerogative of Heaven, in condemning a
man for his sentiments, however different from mine; and if I
know myself, no reverse of fortune would ever make me adopt so
inquisitorial an idea.
Your tender mention of the dear little pledges, left me by one
who, I trust, is now a saint in heaven, I shall never forget. De
prived, as they are, of one of the fondest of parents by the visita
tion of God, and soon to be of another, not indeed for his crimes,
nor even indiscretion, but because he dares think for himself, their
dependence must be, next to divine Providence, on the worthy and
the humane. A virtuous education is what I most ardently wish they
may have, and on that subject shall perhaps throw on paper some
thoughts before I go away, but certainly before I leave the coun
try. These, with a number of papers relating to their never
enough to be regretted mother, I shall leave with your colleague
Mr. Silvester. These affecting subjects almost overcome me, at
particular times.
I wish you and Mrs. Sedgwick, my dear sir, every degree of
happiness, and be assured, the highest will be found to consist, not
in the bustle of the world, but in the calm sunshine of domestic
life. May it be long, very long, before either of you experience
the miseries of a separation. Present my most respectful: compli-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 119
ments, with these my good wishes, to her, Mrs. Dwight, and the
rest of your connections, and believe me,
Most affectionately yours,
P. V. Schaack.
We set out to-morrow or next day. Col. Burr, I hear with
pleasure, is to escort us.
THEODORE SEDGWICK TO AARON BURR*
Kinderhook, August 1th, 1778.
My dear Sir:
I write you in haste by Mr. Van Schaack, who will convey it
to you, should you be at West Point. This gentleman has, by
long acquaintance, manifested such qualities as have much attracted
me to his interest ; but, most unfortunately for his friends, has dif
fered in political opinions from the body of the community in gen
era], and from me in particular,-]- in consequence of which differ
ence, (by means of the test act of this State,) he is about to be re
moved to the city of New-York; and has been so obliging as to
offer me his assistance in procuring for, and sending to me, some
family necessaries. Should it be in your power, I am sure it
would be an unnecessary request, to desire you to lend your assist
ance; nor need I desire you to render Mr. Van Schaack's short
stay among you as agreeable as his and your circumstances will
permit. I most sincerely congratulate you on the happy prospect of a
speedy termination of the war. I believe I shall visit the camp
soon, in which case you will have the pleasure to see Mr. Edwards
in company. I have, since I saw you, become the father of a sec
ond daughter. Pamela has had a most tedious and dangerous
illness, but is, thank God, now, for her, very well. You may be
sure she will be glad to be affectionately remembered by you.
Yours, most sincerely, Theodore Sedgwick.
* Life of Burr, Vol. I. p. 134.
t Judge Sedgwick took particular pains to convince Mr. Van Schaack of
the propriety of his joining the popular side of the question, and visited him,
at Kinderhook, several times for that purpose. On his return from one of
these visits, he compared Mr. V. S. to '' a tall, noble pine, perfectly straight,
only it inclined a little at the top" (towards England.)

120 THE LIFE. OF
On the nineteenth of August, when on his way to New-York,
Mr. Van Schaack had an interview with Governor Clinton, at
Poughkeepsie, which was then the seat of government. On this
occasion he had the satisfaction to receive from the Governor an
assurance, " that he did not think him a proper object of the act,
by color of which he was proceeded against, for that his con
duct had been different from that which was the object of the act ;
that his character was not equivocal, or suspicious, but well under
stood ; for, that though averse to the public measures, and as such
he had been put under parole, yet, having never violated that pa
role, he would consider him as a British prisoner." At this inter
view, Governor Clinton gave Mr. Van Schaack the following
certificate :
" At the request of Peter Van Schaack, Esq., of the county of
Albany, I do certify, that he made application to me, in the
beginning of June last, for permission to go to England, on account
of a cataract in one of his eyes, and for the purpose of having an
operation performed upon it by an oculist, and that I promised him
permission, whenever the state of public affairs should render it ex
pedient. Dated at Poughkeepsie, this 19th day of August, 1778.
Geo. Clinton,
Gov'r of the State of New-York."
The evident design of this paper was, to arrest the proceedings
before the commissioners of conspiracies, and Mr. Van Schaack
immediately transmitted a duplicate of it to Albany. On the sup
position that the Board had only made the order for his removal,
and had not yet caused his name to be recorded in the Secretary
of State's office, it would probably have been competent to have
arrested the proceedings against him in that stage ; but, after the
recording, the legislative act became perfect. Unfortunately, Mr.
Van Schaack's name was recorded with others, before the certificate
was received by the board of commissioners ; and the archives of
the State of New-York were defaced by a proceeding, which will
scarcely bear the calm and satisfactory review of an enlightened
posterity !
The day previous to his departure from Kinderhook for New-
York, to take passage for England, he addressed a letter to his

y^BS=r

PETER van schaack. 121
friend Mr. Jay. It was probably the only letter bearing an appear
ance of harshness, which passed between them during an intimate
friendship and correspondence of nearly seventy years ; and even
this letter, as will be perceived, closes with an unreserved expres
sion of '" personal" regard. TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 14th August, 1778.
Dear Sir : *
I owe it to the friendship which formerly subsisted between us,
to explain myself on a very serious subject, before I quit this coun
try, perhaps forever. The charitable construction which every
man would wish to be put upon his own conduct, will, I hope,
induce you to do justice to my principles; principles not formed
without consideration ; not dependent on undecisive events, and
not to be deserted at the approach of danger.
I suffer, sir, as you must see, for a difference of opinion merely,
on a question wherein I am not only justifiable, but under the most
sacred obligation to exercise my own private judgment. In a case
like this, involving considerations of moral duty, there can be no
choice, and he who disobeys the dictates of his own mind, stands
convicted. Punishment by the civil power for a difference of
opinion in the abstract, will be reprobated by every liberal man ;
but, in the present case, its justice is derived from the dangerous
tendency of those opinions, in that they uphold a supremacyybmgw
to the government of the state. They are but opinions, neverthe
less ; and that their evil tendency cannot be restrained, or prevented,
without so harsh a measure as the present, I believe will not, when
considered without passion, be believed : and if it can, the govern
ment (which, too, is not exempt from obligation,) is bound to
adopt more lenient methods.
Whoever recurs to the origin of the present war, 'must admit,
(unless he arrogates to himself infallibility, and supposes, more
over, that no man can really differ from him and be innocent,) that
there were many men, who, from principle, dissented from the pub
lic measures; and if there were others, who were not actuated by
principle, I believe this was not peculiar to one side. All, how
ever, had a right to take their part. These men, according to the
16

122 THE LIFE OF
laws of nature and of nations, should have been permitted, in the
beginning of the war, to remove ; or, if detained, it could only be
as prisoners of war, or, at most, a passive obedience to the laws,
and not the active services of subjects, ought to have been required
of them. The declaration of war from the crown of Great Britain,
in 1756, permitted' all the subjects of the French king then in
England to remove with their effects, or promised them the pro
tection of the laws; and this, I believe, is the general practice in
Europe. A different policy, however, has here prevailed, the par
ticulars of which I need not enumerate, and the effects have been
just what might have been expected from such a system ; but the
difficulties which have arisen from the attempts to compel the
consciences of men, ought not surely to be imputed to them.
The harshness of the present act, is aggravated by the change
of circumstances, and converts that which was a right, into a pun
ishment ; and makes that severity in the government, which was
heretofore incumbent on them as an act of justice. Consider, sir,
you have derived aids from these people in the prosecution of the
war, and have detained them in the most perilous times ; and now,
when in the declared sense of the people in power the danger sub
sides, by an inverted order the severity increases. Is this answer
ing the design of punishment ? Is it conformable to those reasons,
upon the strength of which, the few are raised above the many 1 Is
it consistent with that justice due to individuals, from which rulers
cannot divest themselves 1 or is it in the least agreeable to the spirit
of the law of Solon against neutrality, which I have heard you
quote 1
Let me entreat you to recur to first principles ; your govern
ment, professed to be formed upon them, is too young to excuse in
attention to them. Read with the same temper you used, Locke,
Montesquieu and Beccaria, upon the rights of individuals, and the
duties of those in power, and compare them with the present prac
tice, and I fancy you will think that Great Britain has not alone
trampled upon the rights of mankind.
Whatever may be urged in favor of the act, I must think that
I suffer, even in the sense of my prosecutors, for an involuntary
error of the mind, or, at most, for the omission of a moral duty—
neither of which are cognizable by the civil authority. In the

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 123
thirty-eighth article of your Constitution, the rights of conscience
are separated by a clear boundary, from matters of civil cognizance.
All religious professions are placed on the same foot, without dis
crimination, in which one religion is included, the members where
of uphold a foreign supremacy, and which we are assured has
" deluged Great Britain with blood, and dispersed impiety, bigotry,
persecution, murder and rebellion, through every part of the world ;"
and yet even to this, in common with the rest, no other restriction
is added, than that it shall not excuse " acts of licentiousness, or
justify practices inconsistent with the peace and safety of the state."
It is true, they may be called upon to take an oath of abjuration,
as well as of allegiance, previous to their naturalization ; but I
need not to you prove, that this does not in the least weaken the
inference I would draw.
With the loyalist, however, the case is different ; for he, consis
tent with his principles, may be laid under obligations affording
ample security to the public ; which, according to a well-informed
conscience, are binding ; and 1 must think that he, no more than
other men, is to be farther punished than necessity (which alone
can justify any punishment) requires.
I readily waive any arguments drawn from the belief the oath
requires, of the independency of this State both of right and in
fact ; the latter, in one sense at least, dismembered as the State is,
is not true ; the former is yet sub judice, and undecided. I am
willing to consider it, for my own part, as a simple oath of allegi
ance ; and in that view, I think it is manifestly improper to tender
it to persons of opposite principles, because it is a temptation to
perjury, in attacking human weakness in its most vulnerable parts;
because, if taken, it adds no obligation in point of morality upon
the man it is tendered to, since a man by his voluntary act cannot
discharge himself from a prior duty, and because, therefore, it gives
no security to the public ; and I think this measure most cruel, be
cause it is carried on at a time when no state necessity (which,
though sometimes a reality is oftener a phantom, to which num
bers of virtuous men have been made victims,) can be pretended to
justify it. It is cruel, because it operates against men in that situa
tion, whereto they are reduced, not by choice, but by a different
way of thinking, on a subject they had a right to judge and deter
mine upon.

124 THE LIFE OF
If I could entirely overcome that quickness of sensibility, which
a series of inauspicious events in my family, and a fatal reverse of
fortune convincing me of the instability of all human happiness,
have greatly abated, I should forbear mentioning what I felt at
being called upon under the description of this act ; an act which,
contains language better adapted to the channel of a newspaper,
than to convey the dispassionate sense of the Legislature. I own,
sir, I have said, that I did not think any man would choose to tell
me, that any of the characteristi'c marks of description it contains,
are applicable to me. I have not affected, but maintained, as far
as I could, a neutrality. I was your prisoner, and under parole to
do so ; and surely it argued no poverty of spirit, or undue attach
ment to property ; nor was it " unmanly or ignominious," to adhere
to the faith I had given you, nor did I want to " shelter myself un
der your government ;" and if it was known that I had endeavored
to " undermine or subvert it," (and without being known it ought
not surely to have been asserted,) I was amenable to your courts.
I say, I have, as far as I could, maintained a neutrality ; for
this has not been left at my option. Notwithstanding my local
restrictions, notwithstanding my being disarmed, I have been com
pelled to pay sums of money, and have been tried by a court mar
tial for not marching in arms, and doing the duties of a soldier.
Does not this remind one of the bed of Procrustes 1 and surely a
very small share of gratitude would suffice for such protection.
Permit me to observe, by the by, that many instances of the breach
of faith you have met with, I fancy have arisen from like treatment;
added to this consideration, that persons of opposite sentiments
have never known the extent of their punishment, nor were placed
in any situation where they could have that reasonable assurance
of their safety, which is necessary to enjoy peace of mind in
society. Whatever the policy may be of banishing me from my native
country, I dare confidently say that my political principles are not
incompatible, either with the just rights of government, or the
liberties of a free people. I may have erred in the application of
them in a contested point, but as they have been formed with all
the consideration I was master of, I hope I may say that I am in
nocent in this respect ; at least, I think that in a question depending

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 125
on opinion only, and wherein every man has a right and is bound
to determine according to his own opinion, he is accountable only
for the fair and impartial exercise of his judgment; and as no
human tribunal can examine this, so they ought not to punish him
for the result. Motives of self-preservation alone can justify a
State in banishing a man who is chargeable, not with transgression
of law, but with a mere difference of opinion ; every severity be
sides, as an act of vindictive justice, is unpardonable. The reasons
assigned for the double taxation are totally insufficient, as a mo
ment's reflection will show you ; nor can I be very thankful for
the forbearance of my countrymen. God knows I have seldom
experienced it but when I solicited favors ; favors of small conse
quence to be granted, but to me of inestimable value !
You cannot but remember, that so early as January, 1777, 1
, declared my desire to leave this State, and endeavored to prove it
my right. I was promised a hearing upon the merits of my appli
cation, which at that time was postponed through a multiplicity of
business. I think it was the right of every man affected by this
act, to be heard before it passed. In cases of particular laws,
especially such as inflict pains and penalties, this is a practice not
to be departed from, and the pretence of state necessity, you know,
in instances familiar to us, has not been deemed a justification.
Upon a fair estimate, and upon a large scale, I fancy the deviations
from general established principles very seldom happen, without
introducing greater and more permanent mischiefs than those they
are calculated to remove.
I shall make no apology for the length of this letter, as it is
probably the last I shall ever trouble you with. I thought it a
tribute due to that friendship, which was equally my pride and my
pleasure ; a friendship of which I do not remind you for the sake
of favors, and from the obligations of which, on his part, I am
willing to- acquit any man who can think me deserving of the
usage I have received.
I wish you to show this letter to our mutual friend, Benson, to
whom I intended likewise to have written ; but my eyes will not
admit of it. I own I have something particular to say to him.
What passed between the Governor and me last June, I have com
municated to him ; what happened in April, 1777, when I was at

126 THE LIFE OF
Kingston, you know. Compare the whole together, and you will
think my situation somewhat particular. I am, in every personal
respect, his, and, Dear sir, your most obedient servant, ¦'
Peter Van Schaack.
Let us here take a brief review of the circumstances connected
with Mr. Van Schaack's banishment, to enable us to form some
opinion of the justice or necessity of inflicting so severe a punish
ment upon him, merely because he conscientiously entertained cer
tain political sentiments.
The campaign of 1777 had terminated in triumph to the
American arms. The great and leading movement marked out by
the British government for the conduct of their forces in the Ameri
can war — the junction of the royal armies from Canada and New-
York — had been frustrated, and had resulted in the disastrous
retreat of Col. St. Leger from before Fort Schuyler, and the sur
render of the army of General Burgoyne. A treaty of friendship
and commerce with France had been formed, on the sixth of Feb
ruary, 1778, thereby not only securing to the United States the
direct aid and co-operation of that power, but essentially strength
ening the American cause with the other powers of Europe, and
weakening Britain, by involving her in war with her immediate
neighbors on the continent. The British government had betrayed
their alarm on this occasion, as was sufficiently shown by the sud
den introduction of Lord North's " conciliatory bills" into Parlia
ment, and the indecent haste with which they had been despatched
to America, before they had passed through the ordinary forms of
legislation. The alliance with France, which had excited this
alarm in Britain, had inspired confidence at home, and the Conti
nental Congress issued " an address to the people of America, on this
occasion of a new and most propitious crisis in their affairs." At
this period, when there was a bright prospect of peace,* the Legis-

* See Mr. Jay's short letter, without date, but written in the early part of
April, 1778, in which he says, " the wise ones say, we shall go to New- York
next winter." See also Mr. Sedgwick's letter to Col. Burr, in which he con
gratulates him on the prospect of peace.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 127
lature of New-York passed the banishing act, and their commis
sioners commenced executing its provisions.
In respect to Mr. Van Schaack's conduct, it was not pretended
that he had been guilty of any acts, to subject him to punishment,
or that he had done any thing from which a disposition could be
inferred, to embarrass the public measures. He had conscientiously
maintained a strict neutrality. Neither the governor nor the com
missioners considered him an object of the penalties of the act
under which proceedings were had against him, and to whose
letter he was now sacrificed. It would seem that his personal
situation should have exempted him from those proceedings, broken
hearted and borne down as he was by a long succession of domestic
afflictions, and by the visitation of disease in one of its severest
forms in his own person. An individual friendly to the public
measures would scarcely have been required to take up arms in a
similar situation ; and, on principle, his conscientious scruples on
this subject, deserved as much consideration as those of the Quaker.
Many persons who were unfriendly to the Revolution, and who had
not such strong claims upon the sympathy and forbearance of their
countrymen, were suffered by the public authorities to remain un
molested in their inactivity. History informs us, that Aristides the
Just was ostracized : and it may perhaps be regarded as a compli
ment to Mr. Van Schaack, that his integrity and elevation of
character should have been such, as to have secured for him an
influence, which, although unexerted, in the eye of the public au
thorities rendered his example in his retirement so dangerous, as
to require his banishment from his native country ; — for it was to
the supposed existence of that silent influence alone, arising from
the fact that he entertained certain political sentiments, that we are
to ascribe his ostracism.
Another circumstance merits consideration, and is important, in
estimating the propriety of the proceedings against Mr. Van Schaack
under the banishing act. At the time these proceedings were in
stituted, he was residing in retirement, at Kinderhook, upon his
parole of honor, taken by the Convention of New- York, on the
fourth of April, 1777. In the proceedings of the Convention at
that period, he had a pledge that he should have a hearing upon
the merits of his previous application. In his memorial to that

128 THE LIFE OF
body, he had claimed the privilege of removing^ from the State
with his family and effects, in the exercise of what he maintained
was his right. In canvassing that right, it should be borne in
mind, that neither at the date of his letter to the Convention, nor
on the fourth of April, when their order was made, had a constitu
tion for the State as yet been adopted.* Nor ought his application
to have been prejudiced, by the subsequent adoption of the consti
tution, and the regular organization of the State government under
it, or by the banishing act, which had been enacted by the first
Legislature under that instrument. The Convention had restrained
him by his parole, from leaving his native place, and they had
postponed a hearing upon his memorial, to suit their own convenience,
The injustice of now compelling him to leave his native coun
try, without according to him the pledged hearing, under the igno
minious ban of banishment, to which was attached the very severe
penalties of a " double taxation" of his property, and a conviction
of his person for " misprision of treason," in case of a return to the
State, would seem to be manifest. Charity would lead us to suppose,
that in the confusion of a civil war, the peculiarity of his case and
situation was overlooked, or not sufficiently estimated by those in
power ; or, perhaps, a " political necessity," whether fancied or
real, regarded it as one of those " cases, in which" (according to
an eloquent writer,) " a veil should be drawn for a while over Lib
erty, as it was customary to cover the statues of the gods."
* The constitution was adopted 20th April, 1777, and the new State gov
ernment was not organized until several months afterwards.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 129

CHAPTER VII.
It will here be proper to recur to the severe and various afflic
tions with which Mr. Van Schaack had been visited, during a
period of about eight years previous to his departure for England.
He had, in that time, interred six children, several of whom had
arrived at an interesting age, and two of whom had been taken
away under the trying circumstances which have been detailed.
He had buried his father, and parted with his father-in-law under
circumstances rendering it probable that the separation would be
final. He had lost the sight of one eye entirely, and had the fear
of total blindness in both ever present to his mind. A promising
professional business had been suddenly arrested by the public
troubles, which had destroyed his prospects of fame and^usefulness.
He found himself the object of suspicion, and had been harassed by
proceedings of a most unpleasant character. He was separated by
an unyielding principle, having its foundation in conscientious
scruples, from his earliest and most intimate friends; and death
had just taken from him the wife of his bosom. It was no doubt
in reference to all these trials and afflictions, — domestic, personal, so
cial, and civil, — and when, superadded thereto, he was removed to a
distance of three thousand miles from his kindred and friends, an
exile in a foreign land, — that Mr. Van Schaack selected as his
motto, the following philosophic sentiment from his favorite Vir
gil: Super andafortuna ferendo.*
His impressions on taking leave of his native place are thus
recorded in his journal.
* Quid quid erit, superanda omnis fortuna ferendo est. iEneid, B. V. 1. 710.
Mr. V. S. had several other mottos in view, all of which were significant : one
was Jlecti nonfrangi ; another duris nonfrangor. The one selected by him
was more philosophically elegant. 17

130 THE LIFE OF
" On the fifteenth of August, 1778, 1 set out from Kinderhook
for New-York. The very peculiar circumstances of my situation,
as it was affected by and connected with the public convulsions of
the country, cannot here be enumerated. They may be collected
from my papers upon this momentous subject, from which I hope
it will appear, that the part I have acted may be reconciled to the
strictest integrity, however impolitic or injudicious it may be
thought to have been. The sphere wherein my actions or concerns
can be of any consequence, is small. It is confined to my children,
my family, my friends. To the first, I would wish to leave a
character which may afford examples worthy of their imitation,
and among my friends I hope some will be found, who will rescue
that character from misrepresentation, and protect it from unjust
censure. Such as may think my principles have been erroneous,
while they point out their errors, it is hoped they will do me the
justice to say, that they were not hastily or passionately adopted,
nor maintained with bigotry or want of candor. Frail man has
only the dim light of opinion to conduct him through the mazes
of life, or to assist him in judging of the principles and conduct of
his fellow-creatures, and surely this consideration should teach him
humility, charity and toleration.
" Torn from the nearest and dearest of all human connections,
by the visitation of Almighty God, and by means of the public
troubles of my country, I am now going into the wide world, with
out friends, without fortune, with the sad remembrance of past hap
piness, and the gloomy prospect of future adversity, having no
other compass to direct me than my own frail understanding, and
no other consolation than that consciousness of my own integrity,
which, as far as relates to the immediate cause of my now leaving
my country, I possess in the fullest manner."
FROM GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.
Philadelphia, 8th September, 1778.
Dear Sir:
I received your favor of the 24th of last month just now, and
I write an answer which may or may not reach you. I am much
obliged by the sentiments you profess for me, and I hope to deserve
them from you, from all, from enemies and from friends. I always

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 131
have regretted, and I trust I shall, that you did not take part with
us in the cause, which, let the success of it be what it may, I can
not but consider as the just cause of all mankind. I am particu
larly afflicted, that you should be now obliged to relinquish your
country, for opinions which are unfavorable to her rights. If I am
rightly informed, your situation is by no means singular ; a circum
stance which, I believe, is far from alleviating your feelings, and
which most sincerely affects mine.
What may be the law you allude to, I know not ; and therefore
shall not be so hardy as to arraign its policy or humanity : should
it be contrary to the principles of the former, the infancy of the
state must apologize for the defects of its legislature ; should it
revolt against the latter, while we lament the consequence, let us
pardon something to the cause. Being men, we are all subject to
human frailty. We are not therefore to be surprised, that some
sparks of resentment shed their baleful light on the conduct of
human affairs. I fear that the very best will, in the years of cool
reflection, pay melancholy tribute of repentance to the hours of
contention. Adversity is the great school of moderation. If any
of my countrymen are come thence unlearned, I will not blame,
though I cannot commend ; and let me entreat you not to tell tales
of them to high-judging Job, or pray him that he will teach them
to feel what wretches feel.
It was always my opinion, that matters of conscience and faith,
whether political or religious, are as much out of the province; as
they are beyond the ken of human legislatures. In the question
of punishment for acts, it hath been my constant axiom, that the
object is example, and therefore the thing only justifiable from the
necessity, and from the effect. 1 implore the Omnipotent on all
occasions to direct my conduct by this great, and I trust just prin
ciple. Could the American contest have been decided without
blood, I should have been happy. While the appeal lay to reason,
I reasoned ; when it was made to the sword, I thought it my duty
to join in the great issue. While reconciliation appeared practica
ble, I labored for reconciliation. When the breach was so widened
that no hope remained of cure, I solemnly pledged my faith to sup
port the independence of my country, which had then become es
sential to her liberties. In the hours of distress, I was secured from

132 THE LIFE OF
fear by the mens sibi conscia recti, and the dawnings of prosperity
have not inflated me, because I have seen too much of the instabi
lity of human affairs, to confide in appearances.
As I am determined not to share in gains which arise from
public distress, I will continue in public life till the establishment of
the liberties of America. It shall be my object to narrow as much
as possible the circle of private wo. I would to God, that every
tear could be wiped away from every eye. But so long as there
are men, so long it will and must happen that they will minister
to the miseries of each other. It is a delightful object in history,
to see order, and peace, and happiness result from confusion, and
war and distress. It is a pleasing hope in life. It is your misfor
tune to be one out of the many who have suffered. In your phi
losophy, in yourself, in the consciousness of acting as you think
right, you are to seek consolation, while you shape your old course
in a country new.
Whatever may be the fate of the great controversy, and what
ever may be your individual lot, I pray you to believe there are
very few who will more rejoice in  *
" 16th October, 1778,f I embarked in the ship Rachel, Tho
mas Rounding, Master, at New-York for London, and on the 19th,
sailed from Sandy Hook, in a large fleet consisting of one hundred
and twenty sail. The weather for the first fortnight was extreme
ly pleasant, but on the second November, we met with a heavy
gale of wind, attended with a good deal of rain, and at twelve
o'clock at night, the sound of ' all hands' announced some disaster,
which proved to be the springing of our bowsprit, which had well
nigh been followed with the loss of our masts. In this situation,
¦we fired signal guns of distress, notwithstanding which, we were
left by the whole fleet ; but the wind providentially abating, we
prevented further misfortune, and secured the bowsprit. A leak,
which we perceived soon after we sailed, increased to such a de
gree, as to oblige us to make the first land we could, one pump
? The concluding part of this interesting letter is lost. The author's eflorts
to procure Mr. Van Schaack's letter, to which this is an answer, have been
unavailing. It was, no doubt, equally interesting.
t From Mr. Van Schaack's journal.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 133
being constantly employed, and sometimes both ; and most fortu
nately we arrived at Cork the twenty-third November.
" The dangers of the sea have been so often displayed, in the
strongest language both of poetry and prose, that nothing can be
added either to convey a new idea of them to those who have
never seen them, or to make the impression greater on those who
have. Yet perhaps the danger is not so great, as the horror of
those scenes. We can estimate danger only (short-sighted as
we are) by the event, and by comparing the number of escapes
with that of disasters. The thread of life is subject every moment
to be cut off, and no situation secures us from peril. It is the
providence of God alone, which can protect us from the number
less evils which incessantly surround us, and perhaps in the eye
of an all-seeing God, our danger is equal on shore as at sea, in a
carriage as on shipboard. In the latter situation, however, it is
more visible, but the reflections it ought to excite, should accom
pany us in all circumstances, even the most prosperous, of life.
" I had not an opportunity of seeing much of Ireland, but
what I did see, by no means contributed to excite agreeable re
flections. The poverty and ignorance of the people were beyond
my expectations, much as I had heard of them. Beggars and
thatched houses are painful objects which continually present them
selves, and even elegant seats fail of making a pleasing impression,
when we consider that they were raised out of the sweat of such
numbers of the poor. The proud may be pleased with seeing
themselves the more exalted, in the comparison with their fellow
creatures, in proportion as they are more depressed ; but to those
who have seen human nature in a more equal condition, the con
trast is distressing. " TO HIS SON. Cork, 4th Bee, 1778.
My dearest Harry :
You will hear of my being in Ireland. To-morrow I sail for
England — but I cannot again go to sea without a word to you :
and for fear of accidents to which a sea voyage so much exposes
us, I cannot help giving you my blessing, lest it should be the
last, which Heaven avert.

134 the life of
May God Almighty bless and preserve you, my dearest Harry,
and your dear little brother and sister, and be assured this shall be
my last and expiring prayer. Let me indulge the pleasing hope,
dearest Harry, that you will cultivate every virtuous principle. I
cannot express all my feelings on this occasion ! Adieu, my dear
est son, and believe me ever, most affectionately and tenderly,
Yours, P. Van Schaack.
The reader will no doubt choose to follow Mr. Van Schaack in
his exile. The residue of this chapter will be devoted to a few
selections from his journal, and other manuscripts written in Eng
land. Although they were penned upwards of half a century since,
and for the most part treat of objects which have been repeatedly
described by more recent (and perhaps more philosophical) trav
ellers, it is believed that they will not be found entirely destitute of
novelty, or devoid of interest, and particularly when viewed in
connection with the impressions made upon his mind.
" 5th'December, 1778, 1 embarked in the Juno yacht for Bristol,
where I arrived the 7th December. A very different country did
England appear from that we had left ; the verdure was equal to
that of midsummer.
"I was shocked to find my father-in-law's complaint had
reached so great a height. My feelings upon this solemn inter
view cannot be described, nor conceived, but by such as have ex
perienced the same vicissitudes, who have had the same tender
connections, enjoyed the same family harmony, looked forward to
the same agreeable prospects, and in the course of a few years
have seen the most fatal reverse of fortune, have had the tenderest
ties dissolved, their families dispersed, and properties wasted.
" In Bristol I saw most of the public buildings, and about it
many agreeable villages and other places of curiosity. In the
beautiful village of Clifton is Sir William Draper's house, neat and
pretty, and before the door is a monument erected to the memory
of the officers and soldiers who fell at Manilla. About Bristol are
some remains of fortifications of Britons, Danes and Romans, as
well as of more modern times. Cromwell is said to have erected
works from which to bombard the town, and .part of the cathedral

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 135
is stated to have been demolished by him from Brandon hill ;
though this is denied, and what it suffered is said to have happened
at the dissolution of monasteries, when it is represented to have
been saved from entire destruction by Cardinal Wolsey.
' Epitaph on Mrs. Mason, by Mr. Mason, in Bristol Cathedral.'
' Take holy earth all that my soul holds dear,
Take that best gift that Heav'n so lately gave —
To Bristol's fount I bore with trembling care
Her faded form : she bow'd to taste the wave
And died. — Does youth, does beauty read these lines,
Does sympathetic fear their breast alarm ?
Speak, dead Maria, breathe a strain divine ;
Ev'n from the grave thou shalt have pow'r to charm.
Bid them be chaste, be innocent like thee,
Bid them in duty's sphere as meekly move ;
And if so fair, from vanity as free,
As firm in friendship and as fond in love,
Tell them, though 'tis an awful thing to die,
('Twas even to thee,) yet the dread path once trod,
Heav'n lifts its everlasting portals high,
And bids the pure in heart behold their God.'
" Bath appeared truly astonishing to me, and contains too many
beauties to admit of description within these narrow limits. The
houses are grand, magnificent and uniform, more especially those
in the Circus, Crescent and Parades, and the pavements of flat
stones are like floors. The rooms are large and superb. Dissipa
tion and pleasure here revel without bound, and for the gay from
all parts is this the general resort — some to undo, and some to be
undone. " 14th January, 1779, at four o'clock in the morning, I set out
in a diligence from Bath, and ten at night arrived in London. This
great city baffles all description, and I felt myself like an atom in
it. I found the scenes too great for me to comprehend, and beyond
my powers of enjoyment ; but by degrees became better reconciled
to it. The public buildings exceeded my expectation, particularly
Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul's, the former of which I fre
quently visited, and always with pleasure mixed with solemnity.
Those who read the truest and best descriptions of it, will yet be
unable to conceive the effect which the seeing and being in it pro-

136 THE LIFE OF
duce. We may conceive some idea of its several parts from descrip
tion, but the joint force and full result of all, can only he felt through
the medium of our senses.
"My expectations were not so much exceeded by what I saw
at the theatres, the senate, or the bar. I did not find one actor of
eminence* (though there are actresses of great merit,) nor any thing
superior to the strollers I have seen at New-York. But the scenery
is surprisingly fine. Neither at the bar nor on the bench did I dis
cover that extreme profundity of law abilities, which I have so of
ten heard extolled, and which it was said untied in an instant the
Gordian knot of every difficulty. I found arguments arose about
questions not of the greatest nicety ; and the length of those argu
ments and the hesitation of the judges, convinced me that they had
exaggerated who taught me to expect from men in this country
something superior to what I could conceive from the abilities of
my own countrymen.
" In Parliament I was still more surprised and disappointed in
the expectations I had entertained of the dignity of the two houses,
and of the eloquence of several of the members. Great abilities
indeed there are, but the effect of them is in a great measure lost
in a vehemence of manner, and in a torrent of abuse ill-suited to the
dignity of a senate. There is very little of the suaviter in modo in
any of the speakers — those of the first eminence, as Mr. Fox and
Mr. Burke, have nothing of it.f
" 23d February, I went into the inner parts of Westminster
Abbey, — vast numbers of monuments of persons in every age.
Most remarkable moderns, Admiral Holmes, the insignia of his
profession, the anchor, cable, &c, most admirably executed— beau
tiful white marble. General Wolfe's— representation of his death
extremely fine, the design much like the picture. On the base, the
rocks, place of landing, the soldiers ascending the hill, the sailors
drawing the cannon, the boats, &c, all in bass relief, most admira
ble. Lord Ligonier's, very fine.
" But while we admire the beauty of the marble of numbers,
* Garrick had left the stage shortly before this period. He died a few days
after Mr. Van Schaack's arrival in London.
t " Mr. Burke was not the cool, dispassionate speaker I expected, but
warm and theatrical." P. V. S. notes of Parliamentary debates.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 137
the excellency of the sculpture, the .ingenuity of the design, the
fancy of the emblems and devices; not one fills the mind with
those truly solemn ideas, or makes that real impression as that of
Mrs. Nightingale. This immediately strikes us as a true repre
sentation of the most affecting scene. The figure strikes us of a
lady just expiring, her left hand hanging down lifeless, her right
holding her husband with the last exertion — he, in the utmost
horror, holding her with one hand, and with the other endeavoring
to avert the stroke which is levelled at her by death, just issuing
out of a tomb beneath, the doors of which, of the color of iron
and apparently such, but in reality of black marble, being open.
It is impossible for any representation to be more striking. The
attitudes, the expression of dying beauty in the lady, and of dis
traction in the husband, the figure of death, so very picturesque,
with a variety of other beauties, combine to make this monument
surpass all description. Others excite our admiration — this raises
the tenderest feelings ; if it is capable of affecting the coldest
breast, what must his emotions be who has been a party in the like
solemn scene !
" 18th March, I set out from London for Oxford, where I ar
rived in the evening, after an easy day's journey. I spent several
days here very agreeably, and for the most part among the gowns
men, and in the academic way. The pleasure which it was evi
dent I took in this society, procured me great attention and many
civilities. Indeed, I was predisposed to admire and like this an
cient and venerable seat of learning, which has given to the world
characters of such distinguished eminence in virtue, as well as in
letters. The colleges are spacious and commodious, and besides
the public libraries, each has one appropriated to itself; the streets
are spacious and clean, the gardens are very pleasant, and the
meadows about the town along the Chirwell, and especially to its
confluence with the Isis, afford the most agreeable walks. The
means of study are therefore aided and promoted by the conveni
ences for innocent amusement and agreeable relaxation.
" I visited the pubhc schools, the theatre, (or place where the
public exercises are performed, which is built upon the model of
that at Rome, in the Augustan times of that republic,) the halls,
the libraries public and private, the chapels,- &c. I saw many
18

138 THE LIFE OF
very striking paintings, displaying that art in a degree of excel
lence of which I had no conception before. The painted glass in
some of the chapels (particularly that of New-College) is striking '
beyond expression. The sensations it excites, are such as will re
move the prejudices conceived against the use of this art in places
of public worship, as being a relic of popish superstition. Mine,
which had arisen from the abuses of it which 'I had heard of,! van
ished when I reflected on the impressions which these paintings
made upon my mind.*
" 20th March, I went to Woodstock, a very ancient town, cel
ebrated in history. Here I visited Blenheim House, a most superb
and magnificent pile of building. Every thing here is upon a great
and extensive plan, and the park, the gardens, the waters and. the
bridge over them, perfectly correspond with the building. There
are hdre many very fine paintings and tapestry, historical, allego
rical, fanciful and portrait ; every thing in and about this house has
the appearance of a palace, and the whole is suited to the purpose
(for which it was bestowed by the nation) of a public monument
of gratitude, and as a reward for eminent services.
" The following couplet is said to have been made upon the
bridge, which is very grand, and the water, which at that- time
was very small, though now very spacious :
' The lofty arch his high ambition shows,
The stream an emblem of his bounty flows.'1
" The paintings at Blenheim House, as well as at Oxford, are
certainly very fine ; but I could not help being disgusted at the
strange mixture of sacred and profane, serious and ridiculous, in
the sam'e rooms. This may be taste, but the pleasure it affords is
certainly an artificial one, and can arise only from a certain habit
in opposition to the genuine feelings of the heart. Indeed, many
paintings, as well as much of the sculpture which are shown as
curious performances, are calculated to vitiate the heart, for the
sake of pleasing the eye, by exciting ideas and sensations subver
sive of that modesty which is a barrier*to virtue.
* " And storied windows richly dight
f Casting a dim religious light."— Milton.
" The dim windows shed a solemn light."— Pope,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 139
" Near Oxford is Godstow Nunnery, where it is said fair Rosa
mond was buried : it is said there is a stone with this inscription .2
' Hie jacet in tumba Rosa mundi, non Rosa munda ;
Olet, non redolet, quee redolere solet.'
" The rivalship between the University of Oxford, and that of
Cambridge, has given birth to two beautiful poems : Isis, by Mr.
Mason, and the Triumph of Isis, by Mr. Warton. j-
" The following inscription is placed over the door of a school,
at Thame, in Oxfordshire, founded by a person or persons of the
name of Williams :
' Cuja Domus ? Gulielmiada. Cui condita ? Phcebo.
Cur Phcebo ? Doctis prcesidet ingeniis.
Quiddocet? Utpueri Latio sermone loquantur.
Quo prcetio ! Gratis. Laus ea cuja ? Dei.'
" 23d March, returned from Bristol to Oxford, passing by the
elegant and extensive park of Lord Bathurst, at Cirencester, near
which there are remains of Roman encampments, and where it is
said the tenth legion of Casar has been.
" April. Took a ride through Bath to Hungerford Castle, the
ruins of a very ancient fortification of that kind, which belonged
to the Hungerford family. Part of the walls and of the chapel,
both ' ivy-mantled,' still remain. We saw the leaden coffins of
one of the family, who died in 1613, and of Sir Thomas Hunger
ford and his lady, who, it is said, died five hundred years agd.
" 20th. Went to London in a post-chaise with Mr. Cruger, and
in the evening arrived at Sturton Park, the seat of Mr. Hoare, a
banker in London. The most luxurious description would fall ,
short of the beautiful scenes this place affords, and it is almost
impossible not to think one's self upon enchanted ground, amidst the
profusion of its beauties. Every step you take presents some new
object,- some variegated prospect.
" As you go round a very fine sheet of water, which is encircled
by woods, lawns, &c, interspersed with little islands, and in which
you see numbers of wild, fowl, swans, &a, you see," in succession,
a temple of Apollo; a temple of Flora, a Pantheon, a Chinese
bridge, a Turkish, tentj and Neptune's car drawn by sga-horses, all

140 THE LIFE OF
disposed in such a manner as to present themselves in the greatest
variety of views. Below this sheet of water there is another, and
between the two is the road that leads to Mr. Hoare's farms, on
one side of which is a thick shrubbery. Into the lower water, there
is a very high cascade, which is occasionally supplied with water
out of the higher sheet. The walks through the woods are very
romantic-; one of them conducts you to a little ' straw-roof 'd?
cottage, and afterwards to a hermit's cell, which is strongly char
acteristic of the purpose it was made for. Its furniture is an old
table, a chair, a Bible, an hour-glass, and a small lamp suspended
by the ceiling. The grotto is extremely pleasing, though it con
tains no variety of shells or ornaments. The first thing you see
as you descend into it from the Pantheon, is a river-god sitting,
upon an urn through which runs a stream of water ; but as you
advance, a most delightful scene is exhibited. In a fine basin of
water trickling out of the side of the hill, there is the statue of a
sea-nymph asleep on a couch in the most agreeable attitude, and
on a marble slab fronting her are these lines of Mr. Pope, supposed
to be spoken by her :
' Nymph of the grot, these sacred springs I keep,
And to the murmur of these waters sleep.
Ah ! spare my slumbers, lightly tread the cave, •
And drink in silence, or in silence lave.'
" Nothing can produce a more happy effect than this whole
scene. Mr. Pope wished for such a statue to complete his grotto.
A ride of about five miles, which is so contrived as to give the
most beautiful prospects, brings you to a small Gothic building
supposed to be a nunnery, which contains a number of things, as
well as pictures, descriptive of the different orders of those devo
tees. At length you arrive at a high tower, called Alfred's tower,
commanding a most extensive prospect indeed of almost all the
county of Somerset. At the entrance is this inscription :
'Alfred the Great,
A. D. 879, on this summit,
erected his standard
against Danish invaders ;
to him we owe the origin of juries,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 141
the establishment of a militia,
the creation of a naval force ;
Alfred, the light of a benighted age,
was a philosopher and a Christian,
the father of his people,
the founder of the English monarchy, and liberty.'
" At the entrance of Mr. Hoare's garden is a very beautiful
cross, which formerly stood in College Green, Bristol. It is of
considerable height, rising pyramidically to a point, and around it
are the effigies of several English kings and queens. It was
deemed a nuisance in Bristol, from whence Mr. H. removed it, who
thus rescued from oblivion this pretty piece of antiquity.
"21st April, proceeded to Salisbury. Salisbury Cathedral is a
large and curious pile of building ; the spire, which is amazingly
high, is a most elegant piece of work.*
" We proceeded to Stone Henge, upon Salisbury plains, and
deliberately viewed those amazing masses of stone which have so
puzzled the curious, and about the origin and design of which anti
quarians have been so much divided.
" We passed by the Duke of Queensbury's seat, where the
inoffensive Gay spent so much of his time — Gay, ' in wit a man,
simplicity a child.'
" 22d April, arrived at Windsor, having rode through its for
ests, which have been the theme of one of the most eloquent pro
ductions of the accomplished Pope. The surrounding country
affords a most delightful prospect from the castle, the terrace, &c.
The paintings here are extremely rich and elegant, but too numer
ous to be distinctly inspected and properly enjoyed in so transient
a view as strangers are confined to. Eton, with its ancient school,
is contiguous to, and joins Windsor, and is in full view from the
castle. Same evening we arrived in London.
" 25th April, I went upon an excursion to Hampton Court, and
saw the palace; the paintings and tapestry here appear to me
* "A very large, elegant cathedral, highly adorned within, having as
many stone and marble pillars as hours in the year, chapels as months, doors
as weeks, windows as days, panes of glass as minutes in the year ; a beautiful
chapter house and cloister, the steeple 410 feet high— 36 years building— 600
years old." — H. Cruger's Diary, 1775.

142 THE LIFE OF
equal if not superior to any I had seen. The representation of
Mars lying asleep with his hand in Venus's lap, and a number of
Cupids stealing away his armor, called my attention to the late
transactions of a military commander in America.* Qui capit, ille
facit. " During my stay in London, in this visit as well as the for
mer, I saw almost every thing which is usually shown to strangers.
The Abbey and St. Paul's have been mentioned. The Tower,
and especially the wilderness armory in it, afforded me great en
tertainment. St. Stephen's, Walbrook, near the Mansion House,
is a most beautiful church. The Bridges, the Exchange, the Bank,
the Pantheon, are great pieces of architecture. The British and
Sir Aston Lever's Museums are well worth seeing. Hampstead,
Higbgate, Islington, are pleasant towns. Near the last is the New
River Head, from whence, and from a higher place to which the
water is raised by a machine, a great part of the city of London is
supplied with water.
" Near the Magdalene Hospital, in the borough, is a Lactarium,
with the motto, Lac mihi non eestate novum, necfrigore, desit.
" The following inscription appears upon a tomb in St. Ann's,
Soho, London : ' Near this place is interr'd
Theodore, King of Corsica,
Who died in this parish, Dec'r 11th, 1756,
Immediately after leaving
The King's Bench Prison,
By the Benefit of the Act of Insolvency ;
In consequence of which he registered his
Kingdom of Corsica for the use of
his Creditors.
The Grave, Great Teacher, to a level brings
Heroes and beggars, galley-slaves and Kings ;
But Theodore this moral learnt ere dead,
Fate pour'd this lesson on his living head,
Bestow'd a kingdom, but deny'd him bread.'
" In St. Pancra's church-yard, situate in the environs of London,
is the celebrated epitaph on Miss Mary Barsnet :
* Allusion is no doubt made to General Howe.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 143
1 Go, spotless honor, and unsully'd truth,
Go, smiling innocence, and blooming youth,
Go, female sweetness, join'd with manly sense,
Go, winning wit, that never gave offence,
Go, soft humanity, that blest the poor,
Go, saint-ey'd patience, from affliction's door ;
Go, modesty, that never wore a frown,
Go, virtue, and receive thy Heav'nly Crown !
Not from a stranger came this heart-felt verse,
The friend inscrib'd thy tomb whose tears bedew'd thy hearse.'
" May. I accompanied Mr. Watts to Tiddington, (Mr. Frank's,)
near Twittenham, and in the neighborhood of Richmond, Hampton,
&c. We walked to Chelsea, which is opposite to Battersea, where
Lord Bolingbroke lived. From thence took boat to Fulham, there
landed, and passing by Sir William Temple's house and gardens,
walked through Richmond common and back of Lord Harrington's,
to Mr. Frank's. This seat, very near the Thames, is in a style of
taste and improvement much beyond my expectation. The house
is very neat, though small, and the gardens well disposed, filled
with a variety of shrubs, and sufficiently extensive. They are
much frequented by nightingales, which I heard from my window
and bed great part of the night. The house commands a pretty
view of the Thames, the tide of which comes up no higher than
Tiddington; boats are continually passing to and fro, and large
ones loaded are drawn against the tide or stream by horses upon the
bank. We walked to Hampton, through Bushy Park, (Lord North's,)
where there is a beautiful avenue of horse-chesnut trees, three deep
in the row on each side, and then in full bloom — a very pleasant
sight. The walk is near a mile long. At Twittenham I saw-
several buffaloes, and numbers of swans' in every part of the river.
" We saw Strawberry Hill, Mr. Horace Walpole's house,
which is built in the Gothic style, and in imitation of an ancient
monastery. Every thing around it is in this taste, and the sur
rounding trees serve to cast a pleasing, melancholy gloom, suited
to the idea of a sequestered religious house. The inside (which,
however, we did not see) is in the same style.
" Mr. Pope's gardens and grotto,* fully answered the idea I had
* " At the entrance to the grotto — 'Secretum iter , fallentis semita vittE.' "

144 THE LIFE OF
conceived from his animated, picturesque description of them. I
felt a pleasing kind of solemnity and awe at being in that very spot
where this great man passed so many of his agreeable hours, accom
panied by so many distinguished characters who adorned the age
in which they lived, and will be the admiration and envy of suc
ceeding generations. Mr. Pope's house and gardens are consider
ably enlarged by Sir William* Stanhope, his immediate successor,
and at the place of communication of the ancient gardens and the
extension of them, are these lines, written by Lord Nugent :
' The humble roof, the garden's scanty line,
III spoke the genius of the bard divine ;
But fancy now displays a fairer scope,
And Stanhope's plans unfold the soul of Pope.'
" In these gardens are Mr. Pope's Mount Parnassus, and upon a
small rising ground is a plain obelisk to the memory of his mother,
with this inscription round it :
'Ah Editha .' malrum optima, mulierum amantissima, vale !'
" 16th June, I set out with Mr. Hayes and Mr. Aldridge, from
Bristol for Stroud, about twenty-eight miles distant. We dined at
an ancient little village, the parish church of which was built in
1119. We walked from thence to the town of Stroud, about seven
miles, upon the bank of the Stroud-water canal, which is carried
down till it joins a river which empties into the Severn. This
canal is about forty feet wide, and six deep. Over it are a number
of bridges built upon arches, and as the ground rises considerably,
there are a number of locks for letting in and out the water occa
sionally, in order to preserve its level. To prevent interfering
with a stream of water near it, this stream is in several places con
veyed across the canal and under the bed of it, descending on the
one side and emerging from under the ground on the other. The
expense of this great work, which is intended to be carried on so
far as to form a communication with the Thames, is computed at
forty thousand pounds.
" The 17th, we took a ride up a valley formed by two oppo
site hills of great height, to Chafford Bottom, where there is a
spring remarkable for its petrifying quality, of which we saw a

•J ,
PETER VAN SCHAACK. 145
number of specimens. It does not change the quality of the bodies it
passes over, but forms an incrustation about them. It is said, that
people residing near it, from their use of the waters are more general
ly afflicted with the stone and gravel than in other places. The town
of Stroud, as well as the intermediate country between it and Chaf-
ford, is inhabited chiefly by clothiers, and manufacturers of cloth,
which is generally of the finer sort. The country is hilly, and not
unlike some parts of America, and the people are of a plain cast
and hospitable. Many of their manners reminded me of New
England. " The 18th, we went to the city of Gloucester, which is upon
the Severn. This city has nothing remarkable in it except its
cathedral, which is a spacious pile of building, said to have been
erected in the Saxon times, of which species of architecture it is
said to have many traces, particularly the very large round pillars
in the aisle. Here is some painted glass, but not handsome, and
there are some remains of Mosaic work on the stone floor. The
monument of Edward II. is here, lately inclosed and set off with
iron rails, at the expense of Oriel College, Oxford, which he found
ed. There are two monuments of Bishop Benson, the one with a
simple inscription of his name, &c, purporting that it was his own
direction that it should contain no encomium on his character ; the
other, at a different end of the church, containing a full delineation
of the many virtues of this good man and exemplary Christian.
The Bishop of Gloucester — the author of the Divine Legation, so
much celebrated in the world of letters, so highly extolled and so
severely criticised — was buried in this cathedral but a few days be
fore we were there, he who did bestride this world of letters like a
colossus. He had the misfortune of outliving his abilities many
years. " 19th. We returned and visited Berkley Castle and Church ;
both ancient buildings, the former said to be in its primitive origi
nal state, preserving the style of those fortifications so common in
the earlier periods of British history. The only entrance to it is
through a narrow gateway. It is calculated for defence against
the attacks of those days, and has accommodations for the vassals
and dependents of its lord. This was the prison of the unfortunate
Edward H., who was murdered in a small gloomy room to which
19

146 THE LIFE Of"
he was confined. This castle is said tp have belonged to the Berk
ley family near seven hundred years. ,•
" We also visited Thornbury Castle, which, though unfinished,
exhibits marks of elegance and taste.' It was begun by the Duke
of Buckingham in the reign of Henry VIII., against whom was one
article of impeachment, the building of this castle, from its exten-
siveness indicating designs which alarmed the jealousy of his sove
reign. We drank a tankard of ale with the Mayor of Thornbury,
who is a shoemaker, and keeps a public house.
" July 14th, went from Bath at four o'clock, and at half after
eight in the evening arrived in London.
" 29th. Went to Woolwich by water, through a vast number of
shipping. Many ships of war were on the stocks, some ready or
almost ready to be launched. I saw the convicts come ashore from
the hulks. Their number is between four and five hundred. They
work on shore, and eat and lodge on board. They have light
irons hoppling their legs, and sentries and guards armed have the
custody of them. There are instances of their attempts to escape,
in which they have sometimes succeeded. They continue in their
vices with little or no reformation, and they look forward to the
end of their punishment only to have an opportunity of committing
crimes too atrocious for even this kind of chastisement ; this is the
subject of their frequent conversation. It is much to be lamented
that so humane and benevolent an attempt to mitigate the sangui
nary temper of the British laws should not meet its deserved suc
cess. " July 28th, attended the Rotation Office in Bow-street, at which
presides Sir John Fielding. He is a venerable figure, of great age,
and his hair as white as snow. He is remarkable for the most un
common sagacity in detecting villainy, though stoneMind. His
memory is extremely tenacious, and his questions are so pointed,
that a criminal can seldom avoid a confession of his guilt. Many
extraordinary and almost incredible instances are related of him
upon this subject. His examinations on public days, which are
eyery Wednesday, exhibit a wonderful assemblage of every spe
cies of villainy. There is very great despatch in the examinations,
as well as in the trials of criminals ; a despatch which appeared to
me rather incompatible with the solemn and deliberate proceedings

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 147
proper for courts of justice, and which reminded me of the line —
' Wretches hang that jurymen may dine.'
" August 6th, I took one of my accustomed solitary walks in
Westminster Abbey,* when* perceiving a gentleman and lady going
into the interior parts of it, I followed them from a prepossession I
took in their favor, occasiohed by their unaffected appearance. I
found them extremely familiar, and ready to enter into conver
sation upon the solemn subjects immediately before us, and we
commenced an acquaintance which they were disposed, as I most
sincerely was, to cultivate. His name is Tiddeman, the son of the
Commodore of that name, who was the second in command in the
naval department at the Manilla, where he was drowned; a flag
being sent out to him, which arrived just after his death. He
afterwards called upon me, and invited me to his lodgings in New
Bond-street, expressing his wish to see me, both in town and at
his house in the country, at Ipswich, in Suffolk County. This is
the second instance of a casual acquaintance I have thus formed,
which is likely to be a more permanent one than this sort of con
nection commonly is. Mrs. Tiddeman is in an ill state of health,
and though she preserves an agreeable cheerfulness, is not how
ever without those reflections which such a situation naturally in
spires ; her affectionate husband, too, anticipating the melancholy
and too probable event, is in a frame of mind congenial to mine.
He looks forward to a scene which, alas ! I have so lately gone
through, and mutual sympathy will probably increase an acquain
tance thus casually commenced. The beautiful and striking mon
ument of Mr. and Mrs. Nightingale affected us, I dare say, with
nearly the same sensations.
" 15lh August, 1779, the anniversary of my parting with my
children and friends at Kinderhook !
* In one of Mr. Van Schaack's visits to the Abbey, some time after
Arnold's treason, his musings were interrupted by the entrance of a gentle
man, accompanied by a lady. It was General Arnold, and the lady was
doubtless Mrs. Arnold. They passed to the cenotaph of Major Andre,
where they stood and conversed together. What a spectacle ! The traitor
Arnold, in Westminster Abbey, at the tomb of Andre, deliberately perusing
the monumental inscription which will transmit to future ages the tale o,f
his own infamy ! The scene, with the associations which naturally crowd
ed upon the mind, was calculated to excite various emotions in an Amer
ican bosom; and Mr. Van Schaack turned from it with disgust.

148 THE LIFE OF

"3d Sept., I was shown the Tally Office, at Westminster
Hall, which is under the direction of Mr. Rose, deputy chamber-
' hin, from whom I have received many civilities. These tallies
are billets, or faggots of wood, of which there are large heaps,
and are vouchers for the receipt of the [several duties levied under
different names and brought into the exchequer. There are coun
terparts, which answer the purpose df cheques. There are par
ticular notches signifying different sums, thousands, hundreds, scores
of pounds, shillings, and pence. Welsaw some of those tallies of
a very ancient date, called Jews' tallies ; the writing on them was
not very legible, but it seemed they were proofs of payments made
by these people.
" We then proceeded to the Chapter House, in which are de
posited vast numbers of musty records and rolls of King's Bench,
and Common Pleas in the earlier reigns, pedes finium, records of
the Star Chamber, &c. But what was most remarkable, in an
adjoining chamber we were shown Dooms-day Book, written in
Latin, very neat, and though 750 years old, not at all defaced by
time. It contains a survey of all the real estates in England*
marking their quantity of hydes, the number of villeins, and an
account of the personal estates, &c. There are two large volumes
upon this subject. There is another book containing extracts from
these books, with some curious medallions and pictures interspers
ed, and some of them representing mimcles of Edward the Con?
fessor ; one particularly represents him under a curious figure with
a staff in his hand, and giving a ring to John the Evangelist. .
" We saw the articles indented between Henry VII., and the
Abbot, &c, of St. Peter's, Westminster, in consequence of the
erecting of that building, with a number of seals annexed. Also
Henry VII. 's will (in remarkably plain and intelligible English, more
so than it was in the time of Henry VIII.), with his signature both
at the top and bottom of it. Among other curious things, it directs
ten thousand masses to be sung, and directing where, after his de
cease, to the Trinity, to the Apostles, Patriarchs, to the passion of
our Saviour, &c. &c., marking how many to each, and two thousand
five hundred to the five joyes of the Virgin Mary. The sum
allotted to this service was £ 250, that is 6d. for each mass.
' " We were also shown instructions from Henry VII. to ambas-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 149
sadors who were going to the Court of Naples, to negotiate a treaty
of marriage between Prince Arthur and Catherine of Arragon,
describing in what manner they were to conduct themselves, and
how to preserve their dignity ; directing them to take a particular
view of the lady's person and features, her hair, complexion, eyes,
lips, nose, and to attend to her breath whenever it could be decently
done, and if possible before breakfast, observing whether she had
not taken spices, &c, to mark her stature, and the height of the
heels of her shoes.
" We also saw a birth-day ode upon Henry VIII., of a very
curious composition, by the poet-laureat of that day. Also a re
turn made by commissioners appointed by that prince to inquire
into the irregularities of religious houses, enumerating a great
variety of enormous practices, and by whom committed. This was
the ground for the subsequent dissolution of monasteries. It is said,
that such as refused to confess themselves guilty, were severely
punished for their contumacy, or possibly their innocence.
" In the Tally Office, we also saw some old pieces of iron in
the shape of horse-shoes, which, together with a parcel of hobnails,
are annually delivered into court, by the Corporation of London,
as the tenure by which they hold certain lands.
" 5th Sept., dined at Streetham with Mr. Alexander, and took
a walk to Norwood woods, a place famous for gypsies.
" 6th. Went to Bartholomew Fair, a scene of every species of
folly and ridiculous exhibition. Bartholomew Hospital is indeed
a noble building. It was founded in 1105, and repaired and im
proved in the reign of Henry VIII.
" 7th Sept., attended Mr. and Mrs. Tiddeman, as I had done
several other times at Mr. Cross's, Henrietta-street, a famous min
iature painter, of whom it is remarkable, that though a great artist
he is both deaf and dumb.
" 29th Sept., left Gosport, on my way to Bath, and breakfasted
at Southampton, a very pretty town, the greatest part of which is
surrounded by water. An arm of the sea comes up to it. Here
are bathing places, much resorted to at particular seasons ; and
from it there is a view of the famous New Forest, where William
Rufus was killed by Wat Tyler.
" 13th October, I went from Bristol to Stroud, in Gloucester-

150 THE LIFE OF
shire, through Wotton Underedge, and had a most agreeable ride.
The country is hilly, but for the most part well cultivated : the
valleys or bottoms are extremely rich, and from the eminences af-
• ford the most pleasing landscapes. From Simon's Hill Bourn you
ha ve a distant view of Bristol, Somersetshire, Wilts, the Malverin hills
in Worcestershire, the Severn, the mountains in Wales, (and among
others the Sugar loaf-hill,) and of almost all Gloucestershire.
" At Stroud, and in the vicinity of it, Bezly, Nailsworth, &c, I
passed five days in a most agreeable round of social happiness,
enjoying more than at any time since my arrival in England; the
sollicitee jucunda oblivia vita. The people are hospitable, sociable
and well bred, particularly the women, who cultivate their minds
with great assiduity and attention, almost as great as in most other
places the ladies pay to dress. Music is a very prevailing object
of attention there, as well as, I believe, in every part of England.
" I had an opportunity of seeing Mr. Ellis, a worthy clergyman
at Stroud, play on musical glasses, which afford a very pleasing
sound notwithstanding the simplicity of the invention, which is
said to have been Dr. Franklin's. He showed us very fine prints
of the paintings of the Luxemburg galleries, by Rubens. There
are many very wealthy and extensive manufacturers at Stroud ;
one dyer I was told consumed from five hundred to a thousand ton
of coal every year. The process in the woollen manufacture is
through not less than thirty-four different stages.
" 17th Oct., we returned through Nailsworth, where we dined
with Mr. Webb, who is remarkable for his large and very agreeable
family, having not less than five fine daughters :
'  '  Facies non omnibus una
Nee diversa tamen; — qualem decet esse sororum.'
" I owe the pleasure I have derived from these agreeable excur
sions to my worthy friend, Mr. Richard Aldridge, of Bristol.
" 19th Oct., a year since I left my native country !
" 24th Oct., went with Mr. A. to Bath, where he introduced
me to Mr. Francis Adams, a young gentleman of great merit and
considerable fortune, but much afflicted with a gouty humor which
flies about his stomach and into his head. This gentleman has
travelled in France and Italy, and is conversible and entertaining;
but there are instances of his benevolence, particularly one towards

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 151
an old gentleman of the name of Styles, which do real honor to
his heart. N. B. This Mr. Styles has left in manuscript an abridg
ment of Domats. Civil Law, and a Latin grammar, of which I hope
to get the perusal.
" 28th Oct., dined with Dr. Stonehouse, who entertained me
with a long and particular account of Mr. Hervey, of whom he
was a neighbor and very intimate friend.
" 22d Nov., arrived in London, and went to the city election for
chamberlain, where I saw an amazing concourse of people of a
very decent appearance. I was very advantageously ¦ situated in
one of the small galleries in the Common Hall ; and two days
afterwards was upon the hustings, when Mr. Wilkes's competitor,
Mr. James, declined any farther contest.
" 16th Feb., set out from Bath for London, on horseback, in
company with my friend Mr. Francis Adams, who went in his
chariot, in which there was room for me in case of fatigue or bad
weather. At noon we stopped at the Bear Inn, Lawrence, Devizes,
and dined and staid all night at the Castle Marlborough, a most
elegant inn, with fine gardens, walks, and waters abounding with
fish. This was formerly one of the country seats of the Duke of
Somerset. In the garden is a high artificial mount, which is
ascended by walks winding around it, and by so gentle an acclivity
as to be scarce discernible. We were ten minutes going down
it at a moderate pace, from the summit to the bottom.
" 17th. We stopped at the Castle, Speen Hill, another most ele
gant inn near Newbury. Just by this inn is the spot where a
famous battle was fought during the civil wars, in which Lord
Falkland fell. The view from this hill, and indeed almost all the
way from Newbury to Reading, on the south side of the road, is
extremely rich and fine. The fertile valley is bounded by an agreea
ble rising ground, running parallel with it, and decorated with
elegant seats.
" 18th. Proceeded to Windsor. Went up to the top of the
Tower, which affords a most magnificent prospect of the surround
ing country — not less than twelve different counties in view. In
this building are apartments in which Marshal Belleisle, and other
French prisoners of distinction, have been kept. Here is also an
armory. We were then shown the Palace, containing a great va-

152 THE LIFE OF
riety of apartments hung with tapestry, and very excellent paint
ings, by the most eminent hands. After walking the terrace, we
went into St. George's Chapel, in which there is some fine painted
glass, and in the choir are the banners of the Knights of the Garter,
as those of Knights of the Bath are in Henry Vllth's chapel, West
minster Abbey. Knights of the Garter are installed at Windsor.
The expense, it is said, is ten thousand pounds.
" 18th. Left Windsor, went through the Park about three
miles, and then passing by the Duke's Lodge fell into the Bagshot
road, through Egham and Stains, which is upon the Thames, and
struck across to Hampton Court, through Sunbury Common. Hav
ing a most delightful day, we saw the paintings at the Palace to
great advantage. In general I think they have the advantage of
those at Windsor, though there are excellences in particulars at
either place, in which it is impossible for any but an adept to
give a preference. The gardens, the large gravel walks, the park,
the vast sheets of water, exhibit great and magnificent as well as
pleasing scenes. We then set out for London through Bushy
Park, along Mr. Walpole's Abbey-like house, at Strawberry-hill,
through Twittenham, and came into the London road near the ele
gant gateway of Sion House.
" 7th March, I went to Mr. Dane's private exhibition in Great
Hart-street, Covent Garden, where I saw a number of drawings
of different parts of Italy, and of curiosities in that country; but
the principal thing was a representation of Mount Vesuvius, in an
eruption of that volcano, on gauze. The room was darkened and
a number of wax candles lit up. It represented the mountain in
a flame, shining over the adjacent country, with a distant view of
Naples, the sea, &c, and a roaring noise as of thunder was
heard. " 10th April, I was at the Cockpit, White Hall, where the
Lords Commissioners were met to determine upon appeals from
the courts of Admiralty. In the evening, I attended a debate in
the Westminster Forum, upon the question whether the immediate
acknowledgment of American independence upon the terms of a
general peace, would not be preferable to a continuance of the war
against the allied powers — determined in the negative.
" 2d May. Began attendance on Mr. Birch, surgeon, No. 12

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 153
Essex-street, Strand, for the benefit of my eye, he offering to ad
minister electrical opefations upon it.
" 16th June, [1780,] I set out in company with S. M. Dyck-
man for Cambridge, where we arrived at five o'clock in the eve-
ing ; attended prayers at Trinity College Chapel, and supped on
cold mutton and gooseberry fool, at the Common Hall. Next day
we viewed the Library of that college, (a very magnificent one,)
the public University Library, the Senate House, and several of the
Chapels. The walks on the opposite side of the river are spa-
eious and pleasant ; though the ground about Cambridge is too
flat to admit of any comprehensive views of the town or university.
" In Trinity Chapel is a very fine statue of Sir Isaac Newton,
and in the library are several pieces of antiquity, particularly the
Sandwich marble brought over by Lord Sandwich, and purchased
at a high price. The inscription is in Greek characters, the words
regularly arranged under one another, to prevent interpolations.
It purports to be an account of a sacrifice in honor of Apollo, in the
island of Delphos, four hundred years before Christ, and contains a
list of the contributions for defraying the expense of it. In the uni
versity library, are several ancient oriental manuscripts, and an im
pression of the first printing, and of several subsequent ones, show
ing the rapid progress, in a' short time, of that art. In Trinity li
brary, are Milton's juvenile poems in his own hand-writing, some
of them without a single obliteration, and also a sketch of the Para
dise Lost in its original form, which was dramatic.
" But the most pleasing object at Cambridge is King's College
Chapel, which is a spacious building, and a perfect model of Gothic
architecture. The painted glass is exquisitely fine, and represents
many striking parts of sacred history out of the Old and New Tes
tament, showing on one side the types, and on the other the ac
complishment of them. See the particular description of this ex
quisite piece of workmanship* The trophies of victory gained at
* " The chapel in this college is one of the rarest fabrics in Christendom,
wherein the stone-work, wood- work, and glass-work contend which most de
serve admiration. Yet the first generally carrieth away the credit, (as being a
stone henge indeed,) so geometrically contrived, that voluminous stones mutu
ally support themselves in the arched roof, as if art had made them to forget
nature, and weaned them from their fondness to descend to their centre. And
yet though there be so much of Minerva, there is nothing of Arachne in this
20

154 THE LIFE OF
Manilla are put up here by Sir W. Draper, who was of this col
lege. " 18th. We dined at Huntington, the place of Oliver Crom
well's birth, (of whom the people seem to inherit his spirit, and
are proud of his birth.) We saw the house where he was born.
I could not help observing in Huntingtonshire and Bedfordshire
strong traces of the New England accent.
" 24th June, I set out on horseback with Francis Adams, Esq.,
for Oxford, and passed through Uxbridge and Wickham, and
lodged at West Wickham, where we visited the elegant gardens
of Lord Le Dispenser.
" 26th. Arrived at Oxford, and dined at the Angel Inn. In
the afternoon took a walk in Magdalen Walks with Dr. Nicholson,
with whom we spent the evening in the common room, having
attended prayers at the beautiful chapel of New College.
" 27th. Attended the university sermon, and then, attended by
Mr. Davie, of Trinity, and Mr. Murthwaite, of Queen's College,
we went into several different chapels, halls, common rooms and
gardens. I visited Ratcliff and Ashmolaean Libraries, the Theatre,
building j I mean not a spider appearing, or cobweb to be seen on the
(Irish wood or cedar) beams thereof. No wonder, then, if this chapel, so
rare a structure, was the work of three succeeding kings ; Henry the Sixth,
who founded it ; the Seventh, who farthered ; the Eighth, who finished it.
" It is 315 feet long, 84 wide, and 90 feet high to the battlements. The
second and inner roof of stone [begun in 1513] is in the form of a grand
Gothic arch, without so much as the appearance of a pillar to uphold it ; the
buttresses and towers of the chapel being its only support. In the middle of
this roof, and in the flattest part of it, are fixed perpendicularly, at equal
distances from one another, stones, (adorned with roses and portcullises,)
every one of which is no less than a ton weight. Each of these is upwards
of a yard in thickness, and projects beyond the other parts of the 'carved
work. But what may justly claim an equal degree of wonder is, that those
large stones in the centre of each severy, which may be considered as the
key-stones of the vault, might at any time be safely taken out without en
dangering the vault itself. Hence it appears, that this roof is so geometri
cally contrived, that it would stand firm without either the walls or the key
stones. "There is a tradition that Sir Christopher Wren went once a year to
survey the roof of the chapel of King's College, and said, that if any man
would show him where to place the first stone he would engage to build such
another." — An account of King's College Chapel, in Cambridge, by Henry
Maiden, Chapel Clerk. 3d Ed., 1779.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 155
the Arundel Marbles, the Picture Gallery, the Convocation Room,
the Divinity School. Also Christ Church Picture-room, Library and
Hall. After dining with the Rev. Mr. Davie, (Fellow and Purser
of Trinity,) I went in the evening down the river with some gen
tlemen of the University, in a boat, as far as  , where I
was introduced to the Rev. Mr. Noel. Here is a very ancient
church, remarked for a Saxon arch.
" 27th. Mr. Adams and I rode out to the pleasant seat of Lord
Harcourt, at Nuneham.
" 28th. Walked about the town, and occasionally looked into
different places we had seen before ; particularly New College
Chapel, in which there is an excellent organ, which, combining
with the chanting of the choristers, and the religious characters de
lineated on the windows, and the solemn gloom which the light
in the chapel derives from the paintings, produces a most solemn
and pleasing effect. There are in the great window of the ante-
chapel three figures, representing Hope, Faith, and Charity, lately
put up ; they were designed by Sir Joshua Reynolds, and painted
by Jarvis, and are beautiful beyond expression.
" All Souls' library is a most magnificent one ; in it is a statue
of Colonel C. Codrington, one of the benefactors. He was cap
tain-general and governor of Barbadoes.
' Quem varias edoctum Artes, Studiisqu Mineroce
Omnibus ornatum, Marti Rhedicyna* furenti
Credidit invita, et tanto sejactat Alumno.' — Addison.
" 29th. We made a party to Blenheim House, rode about the
park, and then saw the house. After dinner, we took a walk
through the gardens. About two miles beyond the park walls, at
a place called Stone  , we were shown some Roman pavement
or tesselated mosaic work, the floor of some ancient habitation, and
near it a Roman bath, which was discovered in 1711, when a
house was built over it which was destroyed soon after, and lately
the rubbish again cleared away. It is in perfect preservation, and
the colors, which are unchanged, are various. I took a few of the
stones with me. Returned in the evening to Oxford.
" 30th June, dined in Trinity College, and in the evening set
* Ancient name for Oxford.

156 THE LIFE OF
out for Buckingham, (through Beicester and a cross country road,)
where we lodged at the White Hart.
" 18th July, went to Stowe Gardens, which are truly paradisai
cal. Nothing can exceed them in beauty and elegance. Many
alterations have been made, of which I have taken notice in the
printed description of them, which in the main is just. Mr. Pope's
bust remained without an inscription in the time of his noble friend
Lord Cobham, since which the following has been put under it on
a piece of white marble. 'Alexander Pope,
who, uniting the correctness of judgment with the fire of genius,
by the Melody and Power of his Numbers,
gave Sweetness to Sense, and Grace to Philosophy.
He employed the pointed brilliancy of Wit to chastise the Vices, and
the eloquence of Poetry to exalt the Virtues of human nature,
and, being without a Rival in his own age,
imitated and translated, with a spirit equal to the Originals,
the best poets of Antiquity.'
" This bust is at one end of the temple of British worthies, the
latter fronting the Campi Elysii. At one end of the entrance into
the ladies' temple is a statue of the late Lady Temple, with the
words 0 Bea certe! over it; and on the other side is a vacant
niche, intended to be filled with the statue of Lady Viscountess
Cobham, and over it Fortuna domus.
" On the fluted column to the memory of Lord Cobham, and
around it, are these words :
' L. Luculli—Summi Viri; Virtdtem. Quis. At.
Quam. Multi. Villarum. Magnificentia. ImtatV
" In the evening we left Buckingham and arrived at Aylesbury,
from whence, through a most beautiful, rich and plentiful country,
we proceeded, 2d July, through Tring to Berkhamstead, in Hert
fordshire, and striking across the country, arrived and dined at St.
Albans, a pretty town on a hill, surrounded with a very rich
country. "The abbey (for such it once was, though now a parish
church) is very spacious, and is said to be built on the very spot
where St. Alban, the first martyr in England, suffered. Many

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 157
fabulous stories are related of him. In one place he is represented
decapitated, and near him the executioner, in a stooping posture,
holding his hands under his eyes as if to catch them ; for 'tis storied
that he wept till his eyes dropped out ! There is one place in the
nave, and about the middle between the front door and the choir,
where there is a very remarkable echo reverberating at least a
dozen times, and merely dropping or throwing down a handker
chief produces a very audible sound.
" Near St. Alban's are remains of the walls of the ancient
Roman town of Verulam.
" 25th August, I set out with Mr. Cruger for Bristol, where I
arrived on the 26th.
" 27th, 28th and 29th. Dined at the Merchants' Hall, at the anni
versary feasts of the Mayor (Mr. Bull) and Sheriffs Brice and Har
ford. The company was very large, consisting of the court, this being
assize time, and of the military and pay officers, and of the princi
pal gentlemen of the town and strangers. N. B. The Duke of
Beaufort was there, and a son of Lord Abergaveny, and a foreign
prince, Mr. Burke, &c. &c.
" I attended the assizes at the Guild Hall every day, but there
were no causes of great consequence, or any difficult points of law
discussed. The judge was Nares, and the counsel sergeants Davy
and Grous, Counsellor Morris and some younger ones, among
whom was a son of the Earl of Chatham. Several observations
occurred to me in the , course of the different trials, upon the pro
ceedings, which I shall find a place for elsewhere.
" 23d February, I went to the Royal Society at Somerset House
[London], where, among other things, was read a letter from Dr.
Blayne, on board the Sandwich, giving a very particular account
of the late dreadful hurricanes at Barbadoes and St. Lucia, in
October last, (between 3 and IIP. M.,) and, among many extra
ordinary circumstances, mentioning the good effects which followed
this dreadful agitation of nature upon the health of the inhabitants,
and particularly the cure of several persons laboring under con
sumptive complaints, and even pleurisies, though the patients
were exposed to the open air in the violence of the storm.
" 17th March, I went to Wanstead, where I remained till the
19th.

158 THE LIFE OF
" 24th March, I paid a visit to Mrs. and Miss B., whom I found in
great distress, owing to a paragraph in the Bath papers purporting
that their kinsman, Captain A., had made away with himself.
But on the 19th, I found they had received a letter from him,
declaring that such had been his intention, and that in pursuance
of it he had gone to the sea-side near to Bristol ; but when he was
preparing to execute his fatal purpose, the apparition of his de
ceased father prevented him from it. He adds, that doubtful
whether it was not an illusion of his own brain, he made a second
effort, when the apparition again showed itself.
" N. B. It is said the last Lord Littleton had predicted his death
at the precise time it happened, in consequence of an apparition.
How far to believe or disbelieve the doctrine of apparitions in
general, is a curious subject ; as to particular cases, each must de
pend on its own circumstances, supposing the thing really to hap
pen sometimes. Vide Spectator, Vol. HI.
" 14th April, I went to Wanstead and saw Wanstead House,
Lord Tylney's. Next day I walked over Lea Bridge to Hackney,
and saw Mr. Nauden's Boarding-school.
" 16th, I went through Woodford to the Bald-face Stag Inn,
where there was a famous anniversary Stag-Hunt, it being Easter-
Monday. " 18th July, I was at the House of Peers when the King made
his prorogation speech. The Speaker presented a money bill with
a short address to the throne, and several other bills were passed
with the assent, as usual, in the old Norman French.
" 20th July, I accompanied Gov. Hamilton and Major Hay to
Mr. West's in Newman-street, where we saw a great variety of
exquisite paintings, and sketches of that eminent artist.
" 1st Aug., I went with the above gentlemen to the Tower,
and had a deliberate view of the curiosities,* and dined at Billings
gate ; after which we saw the annual rowing match from London
Bridge. * But a fragment remains of the notes taken by Mr. V. S. of the curiosi
ties in the Tower, and these were not systematized. He notices as " the
most remarkable thing there, the wilderness armory, between three and four
hundred feet long— one hundred thousand stand of arms disposed and ar
ranged in beautiful and various order. — There are four large columns in the
middle, with several hundred pair of pistols and swords about them. Along

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 159
" 12th Nov. Reading Johnson's Lives of the Poets, I find an
anecdote in that of Lord Roscommon which recalls my mind to the
circumstance mentioned in this little journal, 24th March last."
The observations which follow, were probably committed to
paper in the latter part of the summer of 1779.
" A man who expects to derive any advantage from his travels
will be more anxious to select certain objects from which he may
improve his mind, than to accumulate a great number, which may
perplex it ; and as to those objects which he beholds for amuse
ment or pleasure, he should, while their impressions are recent, as
certain those particulars with which he was most pleased, as they
will in a future day assist his recollection, and renew his entertain
ment, even at a distance from them.
" A person who has spent the former part of his life in a coun
try yet in a state of infancy, and whose first settlement is little more
than a century distant from the present period, will be sensibly af
fected in the change to a country whose first settlement is even
beyond the era of its history, and enveloped in fable, and which
has been distinguished as the theatre of the most important scenes
that are exhibited in the annals of mankind. A species of enthusi
asm is excited, by the view of those places which we find recorded
for such important events. We can scarce turn to any place,
which is not distinguished by some memorable transaction of the
warrior, the statesman, and the scholar. Human nature has here
displayed all its virtues and all its enormities, all its dignity and all its
baseness. When we recollect all the changes this people have
gone through, the different and even opposite systems they have at
various times adopted, and contended and bled for, we should
the walls are various figures formed by arms and swords. Medusa's head, &c.
&c. Sword of the Pretender.
" Ordnance armory — large sixty pounder of Henry VIII. with his name
on it, of copper. Large piece used at Edinburgh Castle in 1745-6.
" Horse armory — Kings on horseback — coats of mail as used in ancient
times, the very suits of armor used by particular persons ; order of fighting,
three feet between each horseman.
" Spanish armory — Spoils of the Armada — Image put on board by the
Pope. ." Sword with which Ann Boleyn was beheaded.

160 THELIFEOF |
hardly think hSpossible, that their history should be the history of
the same people.
".The monuments of antiquity which we here discover, wheth
er raised by pride, by zeal or superstition, or by more exalted
motives, are a great source of reflection to a contemplative mind.
In a religious view, while we reflect on the various and contra
dictory systems to which the most venerable of these have at dif
ferent eras been made subsepient, we see how prone to error is the
human mind, when left to judge for itself, even with the best lights.
But those altars which were j in former days devoted to an unknown
God, it is to be hoped will now be employed only in the service
of him in whom we live and move and have our being, and in the
benevolent spirit of that religion which breathes glory to God in
the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.
" That ambition, which, where it has no real object, will create
itself an imaginary and often a fantastic one, should have fixed its
eye on this country, cannot be surprising. In the beauties and
advantages of nature, whether for utility or pleasure, whether for
its internal excellences, or the means it enjoys of obtaining foreign
•accessions, none can possibly exceed it. Its insular situation, the
fertility of its soil, the number and extent of its rivers, and the tempe
rature of its climate, all combine to prove this. The face of the
country is most beautifully diversified, and if we suppose those na
tural advantages to be improved by every embellishment which
the most refined taste and fancy can bestow upon it, we shall do
but mere justice to the scenes it displays at this period. There is
every variety that can be imagined, of hill and dale, of woods and
plains, meadows and gardens, and every species of culture and hus
bandry. A venerable Gothic structure, an elegant country seat,
a delightful park, an ancient village and a well disposed town or
city, everywhere at convenient distances, with sometimes an ancient
castle, call up our attention. Every now and then we see a place
which has been rendered memorable by some military struggle of
ambition, where the blood of the innocent has been shed and offer
ed up at the shrine of vainglory; vestiges of Roman encampments
and fortifications still remain, to show us how transitory is the
glory and the power of the greatest nations !
" In a country abounding with such a profusion of objects, it

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 161
will be necessary to set bounds to curiosity. A few objects in
every kind, may answer the purpose of improvement. The city of
London itself is in some measure an epitome of the world. Its an
tiquity and astonishing growth, its vast extent and populousness,
the variety of people it contains, in every different situation from
the monarch to the beggar, and from every nation on the globe ;
its amazing buildings, ancient and venerable, modern and magni
ficent, its wealth, its trade and intercourse with every nation in the
World, all conspire to fill the mind with admiration.
" In Westminster Abbey we have a specimen of perhaps the
greatest excellence of Gothic architecture, nor can any thing ex
ternal be better calculated to inspire the mind with religious awe
and veneration. Its beauties are too many to be enumerated, and
can only be judged of by the impressions they make upon the be
holder, and the conclusion will be greatly in favor of the Gothic
method of building for religious purposes, when we compare the
Abbey with even St. Paul's, stupendous as that edifice is. The paint
ings on the windows, against which we are apt to conceive a pre
judice, as being a relic of popish superstition, have a very happy
effect. Few can abstract their minds so totally from sensible ob
jects, as not to require every external aid to their mental devotion.
These should therefore be made auxiliary and subservient to the
main purpose, ' and pour in virtue at the attentive eye.' Some of
those paintings, particularly in the chapels of New College, Queens
and Wadham, at Oxford, are exceedingly striking. The colors are
vastly beautiful, and of an endless variety, no two of them being
exactly alike; the light which is admitted through them is ex
tremely pleasing to the sight, and the most interesting scenes from
sacred history are there painted. The crucifixion, the resurrection,
the ascension, among numberless others, are very affectingly repre
sented. " Art here seems to have usurped the powers of nature by its
imitation of her works. By her fiat, mountains are sunk down, and
valleys made to rise, dry lands are turned into water, and streams
are conveyed through mountains and over valleys, as it were through
the air, to any distance. In short, it is difficult here to distinguish
the improvements of art from the works of nature, as it is often to
know what is reality and what deception in the public exhibitions;
21

162 THE LIFE OF
some of which, by the by, strike me as having an evil tendency to
skepticism in some very important articles.
" The paintings and the sculpture with which the palaces and seats
abound, prove the excellency of those arts, and that they have been
carried to a degree of perfection of which I had no idea that they
were capable. Of numbers of the performers it may be said that
their ' art is nature, and their pictures thought.' It may be doubt
ed, however, whether there is not in some of them rather too much
of nature, not to interfere a little with the rules of decency, for it
will be difficult to view those strong resemblances with an eye ab
stracted altogether from the objects in nature which they imitate;
and unless, on those occasions, we can resume the purity and inno
cence of Ederi, a fig leaf at least ought not to be dispensed with.
Some of those pieces will make the story of Praxy teles appear less
.fabulous than we might at first imagine.
" It is said, that the three instances wherein England is distin
guished above other nations, are their women, their gardens, and
their inns. The last, indeed, are at a degree of excellence not to
be exceeded ; the second consist of serpentine walks, shaded and
bordered with shrubs, trees and flowers, disposed in the greatest im
aginable variety. The women of this country are indeed beautiful
and healthy, not generally tall, and full chested ; numbers pitted
¦with the small pox. They seem generally of a pleasurable turn,
and I fancy more disposed to spend a fortune than to save one.
That of intrigue is a very prevailing spirit among them. Music is
more an object of their attention and business than the domestic du
ties. The number of places of dissipation and pleasure are in
conceivable, especially about London. Sundays are days of riot,
excursion and dissipation.
" I have not, in the course of my residence in England, seen
any thing in the manners of the people, materially different from
those of the people of America. The arts of luxury and the re
finements of pleasure are, indeed, carried to an excess from which
we (thank God) are as yet far distant. An acquaintance with
the manners of the principal families at New- York, before the
present troubles, gives a good idea of those of the towns in England,
and the people of New-England compared with the country peo
ple in England, pretty clearly, in their manners, show their origin.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 163
The latter reflection has often made me recollect the surprise Eng
lishmen have expressed at the singularities, as they have supposed
them, of the inhabitants of New-England. Indeed, the rigid ob
servance of the Sabbath, in that part of America, does not prevail
in any part of England I have seen. The New-England dialect is
not more remarkable than that of almost every county in England.
The Somersetshire is infinitely more uncouth, so is the Norfolk ;
and that of Bedfordshire, Huntingtonshire, and Bucks, resemble it
strongly. " I think it a fault in a stranger to confine his conversation to
his own countrymen only, instead of mixing, as he ought, princi
pally with those of the place he is in. This is a fault of English
men abroad, and of Americans in England.
" An American here, will view objects familiar to the people of
England with a kind of enthusiasm similar to that which an Eng
lishman feels abroad. The monument of Shakspeare will affect
us as the tomb of Virgil will them ; like Italy to them, will Eng
land affect us. And while they reflect on the changes of that once
happy seat of liberty, of science, and of the muses, may we not
prognosticate a like period to the glory of this nation, raised upon
the same pillars and to fall with them 1 — These are painful reflec
tions which cannot escape a liberal mind, while we tread this classic
ground."

164 THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER VIII.
Me. Van Schaack's diary, journals of travels, correspondences,
notes of debates in Parliament, written speculations on public affairs,
and various other manuscripts, sufficiently indicate that the six
years spent by him in England were not suffered to pass away in
listlessness and indolence. With an active and an inquisitive mind,
and one predisposed to improve every opportunity of enlarging its
fund of useful information, and of embellishing and perfecting that
already beautiful intellectual superstructure, for which a suitable
foundation had been laid in his previous education, he found his
time abundantly and usefully occupied. In the conversation and
society of literary men and of the sages of the law ;— in his re
peated visits to various literary, philosophical, and other public in
stitutions ; — in his excursions and travels to objects and places
rendered venerable or interesting, by their antiquity, by historic
fame, or by classic association ; — in the proceedings of the courts
of Westminster Hall ; — in the discussions which agitated, and
almost rent asunder the public councils of Britain, and of which
his native country was the frequent theme ; — in the portentous as
pect of European affairs, and which, by the wars of Britain with
France, Spain and Holland, were carried into the four quarters of
the globe, — he found ample subjects for the action of his mind, and
in many of them for the,disposition of his time. His worth was re
cognized, and his good qualities, and literary acquirements and in
clinations, gained for him an introduction to many valuable friends,
which soon ripened into intimacy, and secured for him superior
means of information, and such opportunities for enlarging his fund
of knowledge as have rarely been enjoyed by Americans visiting
England.* * Mr. V. S. was accustomed to relate many conversations and anecdotes
of great interest, which came to his knowledge, or took place in his inter-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 165
His situation in the metropolis, (where he spent most of his time,)
imposed upon him the discharge of many duties in the service of his
unfortunate countrymen, who, like himself, had been driven from
their homes by the civil war, and who naturally sought the aid and
counsel of a fellow-countryman of his reputation and abilities. His
services were always promptly rendered, and without compensa
tion, although often attended with onerous labor and great en
croachments upon his time. His pen was employed to secure
remuneration from the British government for many loyalists, who
had lost their all in the civil war in America, and in vindicating
their character and motives from the indiscriminate attacks which
had been made upon them, by some of the speakers in the British
Parliament.* In writing from London to his friends in America,
he says: "No man existing devotes himself more to his friends
than I do ; for whom am I employed often from morning to night,
and what is my reward 1" — " Hardly any man, I believe, has such
a multiplicity and variety of applications as I have." — " However
I may be considered on your side of the water, permit me to say,
here I am marked by my friends for the great variety of business I
go through, and all the concerns of others and gratis in the
bargain." Mr. Van Schaack was a frequent attendant upon the proceed
ings of the British Parliament, and made notes of some of the
debates ; particularly those on American affairs. A few months
after his arrival in England, the conduct of the British General,
Sir William Howe, and of his brother Admiral Lord Howe, in the
American c ampaigns, was made the subject of Parliamentary in
quiry. The two brothers had been associated in the military com
mand in America, and had also acted in conjunction, under an act
. of Parliament, as commissioners for restoring peace.
The flagrant mismanagement of General Howre in the American
course with conspicuous characters in England. No memoranda were made
of these at the time, and they cannot now be narrated with the necessary
accuracy. With the author it has been a subject for reproach, that opportu
nities for perpetuating these precious relics, have been suffered to pass by,
which, alas ! are now lost forever.
* It should here be observed, that Mr.V. S. never made any application to
the British government for remuneration for his own losses and sufferings in
the American war.

166 THE LIFE OF
campaigns,had excited great dissatisfaction in England, and no doubt
was exceedingly provoking to the American loyalists. It is natu
ral to suppose that those Americans who, upon principle, and from
a sincere desire to promote what they considered the happiness of
their country, were opposed to taking up arms against the parent
state, now that the sword was unsheathed, should have desired a
speedy restoration of peace and tranquillity ; and, to that end,
should have anticipated prompt and vigorous movements on the
part of the British commanders, instead of a protracted war. Not to
mention others, in a long catalogue of military blunders, the neglect
of General Howe to follow up his first victory on Long Island, and
his suffering the American army, when completely in his power, to
secure their retreat to the continent ; his protracted inactivity in
New-York ; his wretched movements in New Jersey and Pennsyl
vania, and, above all, his " wild-goose" expedition to the Delaware
and the Chesapeake, at the most critical juncture of the war, and
when, according to his instructions, he should have directed his
movements to a co-operation with the two armies from Canada
under Colonel St. Leger and General' Burgoyne; — constituted a
series of inexplicable military blunders and misconduct ; and the
unmeaning festival of " Mischienza" given to him by his fellow-
officers at Philadelphia, which closed his military career in America,
constituted the only evidence of his " empty victories."
It is impossible now to divine what might not have been the
consequences to the liberties of America, had the British commander
followed up with vigor his first success upon Long Island. That
there was a chance (and that not a narrow one) for a result fatal
to American independence, must be conceded ; although it may well
be questioned, whether the spirit abroad in the American people.
would have admitted of any thing more than a temporary subjec- .
tion. And yet, had the British commanders fully prosecuted their
conceded advantages in 1776, and the early part of 1777, the
junction of the two armies from Canada and New-York, in the
next campaign, would have been highly possible, if not probable;
and had Parliament, on such an event, under the specious plea of
attaching magnanimity to success, immediately repealed all the
obnoxious acts, the United States might have continued for many
years to be British colonies, and the genius of history would have

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 167
been left to stigmatize as a " rebellion," those efforts which success
has stamped as a mighty Revolution.
A British historian* refers to the severe strictures of the politi
cal writers of that day, upon General Howe's military conduct in
the American campaigns. Mr. Van Schaack probably entered the
lists on that occasion. Among his manuscripts was found the fol
lowing document, in his own hand-writing. As the production of a
writer of known candor, and of an intelligent American, who was
well acquainted with the geography of the country, and who was
also in his native country at the time the questioned military move
ments took place, and who, to these advantages, added that of be
ing now transferred to the capital of the British empire, where he
had an opportunity of comparing acts with instructions; — the fol
lowing article, while it cannot fail to interest as a classical compo
sition, is worthy of preservation as a historical document.
Before introducing this paper, however, it will be proper to
place before the reader the following brief minutes made by Mr.
Van Schaack of the Parliamentary debate in April, 1779, which
gave rise to his composition.
" 29th April, I attended the House of Commons from three
o'clock till eleven, during all which time there were warm debates.
The speakers were,
" Lord Nugent. General Burgoyne,
Lord North, Charles Fox*
Mr. Jenkinson, Lord Howe,
Judge Advocate of Scotland, General Conway,
Mr. Onslow, Mr. Dempster.
" Mr. Montague was in the chair, the House going into a com
mittee, pursuant to their order, upon Sir William Howe's motion.
The debate was very diffuse, the opposition endeavoring to bring
on a general inquiry into the management of the American war,
and ministry laboring to prevent it, by putting the question aside
upon a point of order. General Howe having declared that the
points to which he intended examining Lord Cornwallis and  ,
were military questions general and particular, touching the general
conduct of the American war, Lord Nugent declared against the
House entering into a discussion of military points, of which the
* Bissett.

168 THE LIFE OF
House could not form a proper judgment ; and that it was unne
cessary, as no charge was brought against Sir William Howe. He
paid him and Lord Howe the highest and most extravagant com
pliments. He said the design of France must look to an invasion
possibly of England, but most probably of Ireland, and that this
House had encouraged such an invasion, by their conduct towards
the people of Ireland.
" Opposition contended for a full inquiry. Blame must lie
somewhere. The blood and treasure which had been exhausted to
no purpose demanded an inquiry. The failure of the Northern
expedition was hot to be considered separately. The whole war,
and all parts involved in it were to be taken up. ;
" Lord Nugent said Lord Howe's naval conduct could not be
paralleled by any naval transaction in the history of Europe, or of
the universe. Newspaper scribblers, coffee-house politicians were
not to be regarded. It was only from such, not from administra
tion, that any imputation had been fixed on the noble General.
(No onehad, nor did, nor can — quere as to this. I understood Lord
North so, but he denied having signified his approbation of General
Howe's conduct.)
" Lord Howe said that the inquiry was not to be into mili-
tary manoeuvres merely as such, not the propriety or impropriety
of an attack, &c, but that the conduct of the General was to be
tried, as well as a statesman as an officer.
" It was over and over said in the House, as it has been in the
*, House of Lords, that the empire was dismembered — that thirteen
provinces were lost — that the nation was on the brink of ruin-
that Parliament and the nation had been hoodwinked — that seventy
thousand men had been supplied (upon paper at least and in point
of expense) for the American war.
" Mr. Dempster said that he was in France when the news of
General Burgoyne's defeat arrived there — that the French'were
tired of their connection with America— that their merchants were
uneasy at the credit they had given, but upon that event their sen
timents instantly changed."
The document from Mr. Van Schaack's pen before alluded to,
was addressed to General Howe.

peter van schaack. 169
"Sir: " The ground which your noble brother proposed for an inquiry
into your conduct in America, in the double capacity you held as
Commander-in-chief and as a Statesman, was liberal and just. If it
had a greater tendency to advance the public justice than to promote
your personal advantage or honor, it would argue the patriotism
of an ancient Roman, in a national cause to sacrifice the feelings
of the brother to the duties of the citizen. [The demerits of the one
brother would then be atoned for by the virtues of the other, and
the name of Howe still add lustre to the list of British worthies.]*
" The characters you held were indeed important ; in one of
which you had the direction of a great military force, aided and
supported by a powerful navy ; in the other, you was clothed with
the most ample powers by your King and country. Coercion and
conciliation were equally in your power, and might mutually
have been made subservient to each other. How you improved
those advantages, with what fidelity you executed the unlimited
confidence placed in you, are subjects which demand a serious
inquiry ; an inquiry the more necessary, from the nature of that
evidence which you now introduce before the great council of the
nation. " After being at the head of the army for more than three years,
during which time, in a constant correspondence with administration,
you never gave the least discouragement from the prosecution of
the war, you are come home bearing your blushing honors thick
upon you, and enjoying the fruits of a most lucrative employment;
and now you produce witnesses to prove the impracticability of the
conquest of America. Motives of justice to your country, and a
regard to your personal honor, should induce, nay impel you to
explain yourself upon this subject; and the most superficial ob
server will ask at what time you first entertained, this idea. Is it
from the speeches in Parliament that it has originated, and is it in
England that you have first learned the strength of America 1 If
not, if you held this opinion earlier, was it not incumbent on you to
suggest it 1 And why did you see your country exhaust its blood
* " Dele" is written opposite the words in brackets, indicating that the
writer had not perfected his composition, and thus raising a doubtwhether it
was in fact published. : «, x
22

170 THE LIFE OF
and treasure — why encourage to still greater efforts, if the object
was fruitless and the purpose unattainable 1 Surely this idea, if it m-
was yours, (and you found the justification of your conduct upon
it,) ought to have been communicated, and your country apprised
of their danger, to enable them to make a peace before it was too
late; before the affections of the Americans were totally alienated,
and before alliances were formed so hostile to the interests of this
country. Your allies in politics have with consistency argued
against this war in all its stages ; but what must they think of you,
who could encourage its continuance, who could stimulate the
minister to farther exertions, and who could shed the blood of your
own troops in a desperate cause, and that of the Americans (ac
cording to their opinion at least) in a just one 1
" The particular manoeuvres of your campaigns have been so
often discussed, and are now so fully understood, that they need
not be considered in the detail. Every rational American, whether
of the one side or the other, formed his respective opinion of your
abilities to carry on the war, and of your zeal to put an end to it,
from the affair of Long Island.
" Without considering the justice or propriety of the war, you,
sir, came over against the Americans as against rebels ; as such,
therefore, you ought to have directed your conduct against them.
The principle of every state is, to suppress as speedily as possible
the very first appearances of rebellion. It is an evil which is daily
growing, and its aim is against the very existence of government.
Principiis obsta is here the indispensable maxim, which you had
every motive, as a good man, to pursue, and from which you had
every reason, as a wise one, if the thing was not absolutely im
practicable, to expect success. The American army was at that
time in its infancy ; there was little discipline amongst them ;
they were ill-appointed, and ill-provided with necessaries ; and, in
the article of military stores, they were almost destitute of resource.
Their numbers, though much exaggerated, were indeed considera
ble ; but consisting chiefly of militia, in the state of discipline they
were then in that circumstance was in your favor. The associated
States had not as yet been organized ; their governments had not
then taken root. If ever there was a time, this was it, to put an
end to the war. If decision was your object, Long Island was the

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 171
theatre for it. The situation of the country was in your favor.
Those difficulties which are now so largely expatiated upon, ex
isted not at Brooklyn ; there were no mountains, no impassable
rivers, no impenetrable woods, no narrow defiles to impede your
march or favor ambuscades. Works indeed there were, but what
country is to be conquered without fortifications ? What war is to
be carried on without hazard, and what object can so well justify
risk as that of putting an end not only to a war, but to a civil war 1
" Yet here, in a time so auspicious, under circumstances so fa
vorable for decision, what was your conduct 1 With an army of
twenty-five thousand men, in the ' full powers of health, discipline
and valor,' ably appointed and amply provided ; after routing with
great slaughter your enemy from their advanced and most material
posts ; when they were in the utmost confusion ; when they had
lost two of their generals and a number of their best officers, and,
panic-struck, retired into their works ; when your troops showed,
as you say, ' a determined courage, and steadiness and ardor never
exceeded, and when their pursuit was so close to the enemy's prin
cipal redoubt, and with such eagerness to attack it that it required
repeated orders to prevail upon them to desist from the attempt ;'
and when you declare ' it was apparent (and who can doubt it T)
that it would have been carried,' — ivhat was your conduct at this
critical hour, when decision was in your reach 1 Your orders
were — what 1 To embrace the favorable crisis, which as an offi
cer and as a citizen you shouW so eagerly have seized, and which,
under all its circumstances, will never return 1 To avail yourself
of the general consternation, and of the insular situation where
your enemy was absolutely precluded from a retreat 1 No ; in
spite of the eagerness of your brave troops, and of the remon
strance of some of your officers who could see no propriety in re
pressing an impetuosity, which, in certain cases, (and this was one
of them,) is irresistible, — you ordered your ' troops back to a hol
low way out of the reach of musketry.'
" It were to be wished, that you would attempt to justify your
conduct by the example of some former commander, in a similar
situation ; but, despising all former maxims of war, you will prob
ably disregard its practice. If ever there was a first principle in
any science, it is certainly one in the art of war, that an advantage

172* > THELIFEOF
gained is to be improved ; that an enemy thrown into confusion
are to be closely pursued, more especially when that enemy is an
irregular undisciplined army ; and that the idea of superiority,
which is perhaps the true foundation of courage, should be encour
aged in his troops, and not checked, by a General.
" But you argue, sir, as if you expected certainty of success to
justify the attempt ; as if enterprise was criminal in war, and as if
the relation between cause and effect was previously to be demon
strated by the rules of mathematical precision. Not so argued the
heroes you served under (and as a subordinate officer it is owned
with credit) during the last war. The heights of Abraham and
Louisburg, the redoubts at Martinico, and the fortifications of
Havana, (not to multiply instances with which the British annals
abound,) should have taught you what British troops are capable
of, under Generals who encouraged, not restrained, their ' courage,
their steadiness and their ardor.'
" You say, however, that it was evident that ' the lines would
have been yours by regular approaches.' Here, sir, you laid the
foundation of confidence in the Americans upon the ruins of that
superiority in your own troops, which none at that time was hardy
enough to deny ; and, on the other hand, you dispirited as far as
you could your own army, by folding up their enemy as on a foot
ing of equality with them. Bu\ you ought to have foreseen the
probability of what afterwards happened, against which the loss
you would have sustained in an assault against men under the
influence of panic, confusion and dismay, was not to be placed in
competition. They knew too well the danger they were in upon
an island to remain there. You should have known that they
would not choose ground less difficult to you, nor confine them
selves in works less strong. The men you thus absurdly permitted
to escape, you had afterwards to encounter at New- York, at Fort
Washington, and at the White Plains ; and for every life you saved
by not attacking the lines at Long Island, hecatombs of British
soldiers have fallen a melancholy sacrifice.
" But, if these works were too formidable to be assaulted,-
great and glorious to your country as was the object,— why did
you not wait the co-operation of the fleet, in which event the ene
my's retreat would have been cut off, and they subdued, as you

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 173
express yourself, ' at an easy jrate V A suspension of the attack at
Bedford for a favorable wind, if you was determined not to assail
the lines, and knowing, as under that plan you ought to have
known, that the enemy might retire in such silence as to elude
your vigilance, would have been meritorious and consistent, at least
with the excess of your Fabian caution ; or surely, at least you
ought to have summoned them to surrender ; which, in the panic
they were in, was full as probable as their laying down their arms
afterwards at Fort Washington.
" I have dwelt the longer upon this particular instance, because
I consider it as the source of all the calamities which have since
followed. If you was not determined to protract the war, — if you
had no eye to lucrative motives, — your conduct betrayed the gross
est ignorance. Motives of duty to your .King and country, — mo
tives of preservation of your own troops, and even humanity to the
Americans, whom you affected to consider as a deluded people,
should have combined to make you improve this favorable crisis, —
a crisis which has often decided the fate not only of armies but of
empires. "Meaning to confine myself to such parts only of your con
duct as are unequivocal, I shall not enter into the consideration
of your particular manoeuvres, in which case you might call for
maps, and proofs of the exact dimensions of every fascine, the
depth of every ditch, the strength of every redoubt, and the height
of every hill your enemy occupied. I shall also omit the total
want of vigor in your operations, in the interval between the re
duction of Long Island, the attack upon New-York, and your land
ing first upon Frog's Neck, and then in the Sound ; nor will it
be necessary to take notice of your disgraceful retreat from White
Plains, when your enemy, in the language of one of their officers,
(Mr. Trumbull,) were situated 'like a clan of wandering Arabs. ' *
" The disposition of your army in Jersey, must strike every
military eye, when the most important and accessible post was
intrusted to a drunken and disgusted foreign officer. You had, in-
* The letter from Mr. Trumbull which contains this expression, and
which was intercepted and printed in New-York, is strongly descriptive of
the ruinous condition of the American affairs, and concludes—" Nothing
under Heaven can save us, but the enemy's going to the Southward."

174 THE LIFE OF
deed, — as appears by evidence before the House of Commons,—
ordered redoubts to be built, which would have secured the gar
rison till they could have been relieved by the troops at Borden-
town ; but why you did not enforce those orders, and when you
found them disobeyed did not remove the officer, remains yet to
be explained. " During this whole winter, when the enemy were exerting
every nerve to raise an army, and when their whole force consist
ed of but a few hundreds to guard their artillery and baggage at
Morristown, you remained quiet and inert at New-York, promo
ting schemes of diversion, instead of devising plans of military oper
ation. Very important were the effects of your conduct on the
minds of people in the country. The one side conceived a des
pondency that the Commander-in-chief made not one exertion to
check the reviving hopes of the enemy, or to wipe off the dis
grace which had tarnished the British arms in the disaster of Tren
ton ; while the other side exulted in that insensibility which was
incapable of feeling this disgrace ; — compared you to Nero, who
was fiddling while Rome was on fire, and were animated with
confidence while they had you to contend with. You must recol
lect facts that will convince you, that this representation of your
enemy's sentiments of you is not exaggerated ; not to mention that
you was a constant toast at the table of the Congress, you must
remember that the celebrated author of Common Sense suggested
the most sanguine hopes to the Americans, from their being op
posed by a General who had committed such egregious blunders.
He argued justly, that the panic your army had excited, and
which might have been so fatal to the American cause had it
been improved, might be converted into a real, permanent benefit
in the advancement of it, and that they who had escaped such a
desperate situation as had the Americans, ought not hereafter to
despond under any difficulties.
" Nor had you credit for any humanity, on the score of your
inactive conduct. While the Americans despised you for your
want of military exertion, they detested you for the cruelties you
permitted to.be exercised upon the unhappy men you made pris
oners at Fort Washington. Instead of making these the instru
ments of regaining the prisoners of your army in New England,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 175
who, besides the accession they would have been to your numbers,
would have given you that military intelligence you complain you
wanted, and the want of which you would make a charge against
the unfortunate friends of government ; you suffered your prisoners
to languish in jails till they were deemed by General Washington
improper subjects of exchange. It is to be wished, a veil could be
thrown over your correspondence with General Washington upon
this matter. The credit you had gained among your enemies, for
the reluctance you expressed against entering into service against
a people who had erected a monument to the memory of your
ever-to-be-lamented brother, was easily effaced by your subse
quent conduct, when they saw that your generosity was not proof
against the temptations of wealth and power, and that your
humanity could not one moment procure a suspension of your
pleasures. " Your conduct in the campaign of 1777, has justly attracted
universal inquiry. The chagrin of Britons, and of Americans
friendly to Britain, was not greater than the exultation of her ene
mies. Never was the public expectation raised higher than at the
commencement of that campaign. You say yourself, that the
rebels were sensible that their whole stake depended upon the
success of that campaign, and that they used every compulsory
means to those who did not enter voluntarily into their service. It
had been received as a first principle in the conduct of the war,
that a junction was to be formed between the two armies from
Canada and New- York ; and indeed the opinions of all parties co
incided, that nature pointed out the Hudson's River as the theatre
of the war. Your own sentiments were known to have been clear
and decisive upon this subject, and to have been in conformity with
General Gage's ideas in his letter to the minister of 1st October,
1775, wherein he declares himself in these terms for preferring
Hudson's River : ' Its situation between the eastern and western
colonies is advantageous, besides being commodious in transporting
the necessaries of an army. We are made to believe, also, that
many friends in that province would appear in arms, and the troops
receive many supplies they are in want of. A communication with
Canada might be better secured than in any other part; and

176 THE LIFE OF
during the winter, when troops cannot keep the field, attempts
might be made upon' the Southern provinces.'
" More cogent reasons it is impossible to suggest in favor of
any measure. It is to be presumed that they were the result of a
joint consultation with you and Generals Clinton and Burgoyne,
the latter of whom came to England and procured the command
of the Northern army, equipped with every necessary to act ' in
concert' with you. In your letter of 9th October, 1775, you say
' that the corps from New- York' (which you propose to be twelve
thousand) ' should be employed in opening a communication with
Canada in the first instance ;' and you add, that ' the accomplish
ment of the primary object for opening the communication being
obtained.* by the two armies, these corps might take separate routes
into Massachusetts Bay.' In November, 1776, you indeed propose
a more extensive plan of operations, but as this would require rein
forcements, which it was not probable could be furnished, it was
dropped ; though, be it remembered, that of this plan the co-oper
ation was an essential part, and Philadelphia was not to be invaded
till autumn. In Becember, 1776, upon the declared expectation
that your army would consist of nineteen thousand men only, you
first suggested the design of acting offensively with the principal
army in Pennsylvania, upon the ' change which you say had taken
place in people's minds there ;' but then, you say, a corps would be
left ' to act defensively upon Hudson's River, to cover Jersey, on
that side, as well as to facilitate in some degree the approach of the
army from Canada.' January 20th, 1777, you propose a reinforce
ment of twenty or fifteen thousand men, which ' would enable you
(you say) to enter the Belaware by sea, and the main body to pen
etrate into Pennsylvania by way of Jersey, and there would also
be a corps to act from Rhode Island. On the other hand, (you
say,) if the reinforcements are small, the operations will be much
curtailed, or if none arrive, we shall be obliged to act in one body
in Jersey.' " We have now stated the different plans which you proposed,
and as the King's approbation, signified to you in the minister's
letter of 3d March, 1777, must, in your construction of it, relate to
one or other of them, it is incumbent on you to show to which of

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 177
those plans that approbation did relate, so as to authorize you to
go to Philadelphia by sea, and under the material circumstance of
evacuating Jersey, and leaving Hudson's River defenceless. Was
it of the plan proposed in Becember ? In that you mentioned, as
a part of it, ' the covering Jersey, acting defensively on Hudson's
River, and facilitating the approach of the army from Canada.'
Was it of the plan proposed in January, 1777 1 Then you say,
that ' without reinforcements, you must curtail your operations, and
act in one body in Jersey.' Was it curtailing your operations, or
acting upon a smaller scale, (as you say you would be compelled
to if no reinforcement arrived,) to go to the Chesapeake ? Your own
letter from the head of Elk contradicts this, for you urge your then
extended situation as a plea for demanding greater reinforcements ;
and yet you say in another letter, that you, was restricted from
entering upon more extensive operations by the want of forces.'
" You were told that your reasons for the deviation from your
original plan were ' solid and decisive.' What were those reasons 1
In your letter of December, previous to the Trenton disaster, you
say there was ' a great change in the minds of people in Pennsyl
vania,' which induced you to determine on going thither, retain
ing Jersey, however, and concerting measures to facilitate the
approach of the army from Canada. Did these reasons remain, or
was there no change of circumstances 1
" In your letter of 20th January/ 1777, you say, ' the unfortu
nate and untimely defeat at Trenton had thrown you farther back
than was at first apprehended, from the great encouragement it had
given to the rebels.* And in your letter of 7th July, you say,
'that the war was then upon a far different scale, with respect to
the increased powers of the enemy, than it was the last campaign,
their officers being now much better, with the addition of several
from the French service.'
" These material changes of circumstances, though perfectly
known to you, the King, at the time of his approbation given to
you, was wholly ignorant of; but even that approbation, such as
it was, was qualified, ' his Majesty being of opinion that a warm
diversion ought to be made on the coasts of Massachusetts Bay and
New Hampshire ;' a wise precaution, as it is well known that from
the coast of New England came a considerable part of the army to
23

178 THE LIFE OF
which General Burgoyne became a prisoner. But this material
circumstance you entirely disregarded. Jersey was totally evacu
ated ; the Hudson's River abandoned ; the co-operation all at once
thrown out of sight, and the Northern army left exposed to all the
difficulties of ' a wild uninhabited country,' and opposed by the
whole force of New England, unassisted, while you took a sea-
' voyage °f nve weeks with your army. You had not, therefore,
the minister's approbation, much less his orders, for going to Phila
delphia, nor did you pursue the King's pleasure, either in the letter
or spirit of it.
" Your first intimation of going to Philadelphia by sea, and at
the expense of evacuating Jersey, was 2d April, and was received
by the minister the 8th May. To this you received the King's
assent, indeed, because it was your plan, and because you was
upon the spot, and his Majesty had confidence in your military
skill ; but you was told that ' his Majesty trusted you would meditate
nothing that would prevent your co-operation with the army
from Canada.'* This fundamental principle in the conduct of the
American war, his Majesty never lost sight of. In the minister's
letter to Sir Guy Carleton, of 26th March, a copy of which ym
received before you sailed from New- York, it being transmitted to
you for your direction, he says, ' it is become highly necessary that
the most speedy junction of the two armies should be effected ;'
and in another part of the letter it is added, that ' General Bur
goyne and Colonel St. Leger must never lose view of their intended
junctions with Sir William Howe, as their principal object.' The
receipt of this letter you acknowledged on the 5th July, and say
that to the contents of the different letters you would 'pay we
regard.' " It is astonishing to observe, that notwithstanding you knew
that the junction of the two armies was the capital and lead-

* "The co-operating with the Northern army is by no means incomp
with the expedition to the southward, as it must at that time have appeared
to the King, for a march by land to Philadelphia, in the beginning of the cam
paign might have been effected, and part of the army, at least in the latter
part of it, sent up the Hudson's River ; and it is remarkable that you left
an opening for this idea of your intention, by your so frequently urging that
it could not be till September that General Burgoyne could be down."

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 179
ing part of the whole operations, — notwithstanding you had your
self upheld this principle in every one of your letters, except
one to which you received no answer till you was at the head of
Elk, — though you call it the primary object of the campaign, and
though you found that the armies from Canada by way of Hud
son's River and the Mohawk were instructed to expect your co
operation, and were regulated upon that principle, — though you
had the minister's letter to Sir Guy Carleton, wherein he says that
' the most speedy junction of the two armies was absolutely neces
sary,'- — yet in your letter to the minister of 7th July, you say
you do not suppose the two armies could absolutely join in that
campaign, and you assign for a reason, that ' you apprehend Gen
eral Burgoyne would find full employment for his army against
that of the rebels opposed to him,'* — the very reason of all others
the strongest, why you should have desisted from your other Quix
otic expedition to the head of Elk, and have extended to General
Burgoyne that aid which you foresaw he would stand in need of.
" I have shown, I think, to a demonstration, that you never had
the King's approbation, much less his orders, to undertake your
wild expedition to the southward, upon any possible construction
of the correspondence between you and the minister ; that it was
manifestly contrary to his Majesty's intention that you should leave
the Northern and Western armies unassisted, and therefore that
the responsibility of all the consequences of your conduct must
rest upon you ; unhappy consequences indeed, — the loss of a great
and brave army, of a large train of artillery and other military
stores, and in its event, an alliance which has involved this coun
try in a foreign war !f

* " Notwithstanding this opinion, yet nine days afterwards you say ' that if
General Washington should march with a determination to force General
Burgoyne, the strength of General Burgoyne's army is such as to leave you
no room to dread the event.' Thus, after saying that General B. would find
full employment against the army opposed to him, is he all at once strong
enough to cope with the whole force of General W.'s army and the united
strength of the whole New England militia, whose discipline and valor your
witnesses now so much extol. All this was to be effected by a subordinate
corps, while you, with three times the number of that corps, avoided General
Washington's army alone, in an open champaign country."
t " It was positively asserted by Mr. Dempster, who was in France upon

180 THE LIFE OF1
"Never was there a stranger phenomenon exhibited in the an
nals of military history, than your voyage to Chesapeake Bay;
nor is it to be accounted for upon any principle, but a determined
purpose to make a sacrifice of General Burgoyne's army. Indeed;
you have attempted to prove that this manoeuvre was the best
diversion in favor of that army ; a proposition of which the ab
surdity is conspicuous from the bare state of it. But, your business
was co-operation, not diversion ; your business was to meet danger,
not to fly from it. Instead of which, with an army of fifteen thou
sand men, in the season for activity and service, you abandoned
the continent, fled from your enemy, and took a circuitous voyage
of several hundred leagues in order to arrive at a place from which,
at the time of embarkation, you was distant only about fifty miles;
leaving such a distance between you and General Burgoyne, as
effectually deprived him of all sort of support from you. Thus
was the primary object of the campaign devoted to a mere col
lateral one, which you thought proper to substitute in its place.
Thus, while you was under a necessity from the want of reinforce
ments to curtail your operations, you extended them, and extend
ing your situation you call ' acting upon a smaller scale.' Your
enemy, who could not suppose you guilty of such egregious folly,
imagined you had meant only to deceive them by going to sea, and
expected you would suddenly move up the Hudson's River, and until
you emerged into sight at the Delaware, General Washington was
kept in suspense between the Delaware and Hudson's Rivers : at
length you were advertised as the ' Skulking General,' and a re
ward offered for the apprehension of you, in the Connecticut
papers. " Your operations in Pennsylvania are perfectly of a piece with
your preceding conduct. Decision, which ought to have been
your object, here again you avoided. The action at Brandywine
was left unimproved, and a routed enemy suffered to retreat, to
carry off their artillery, and without interruption to collect their
scattered force.
" The affair at Germantown must fix an indelible stain upon
the arrival of the news of General Burgoyne's surrender, that the French had
begun to be tired of their American connection till that event, which fixed
their wavering disposition into a decisive part against this country."

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 181
you. Though you had previous intelligence (and military intelli
gence too) of the design, and with such precision that you acquaint
ed Sir George Osborne, who was on the right flank of the army,
with the exact time when the attack would take place, yet no pre
vious preparations were made ; part of your army was surprised,
and after a handful of your gallant troops had defeated the whole
force of the enemy, you suffered them again to retire unpursued.
Fresh as your troops were, and wearied as must have been the
enemy's after a fatiguing march in the preceding night, and broken
and defeated in the action, yet they were suffered to carry off all
their artillery.
" The neglect of taking possession of Red Bank while it was
unoccupied, and the feeble effort against it after the enemy possess
ed it, and the monstrous delays in the attack upon Mud Island,
furnish objects for severe animadversion, but are too copious for this
discussion. Your march to White Marsh, however, cannot be passed
over, when, with an army of fourteen thousand veteran troops, you
proceeded to the enemy's front, where General Washington showed
a disposition to receive your attack, (as he had done before in Jer
sey,) and to submit to that decision which you ought to have
panted after. But here you waived the trial ; you remained in the
enemy's view, and then shamefully retreated, leaving no other
impression upon them than a confidence in their own strength, and no
other vestige of your excursion than plunder and rapine. Your
reason was that you hoped they would have quitted their works
and attacked you. For shame, sir ! Was it General Washington's
business to attack you 1 Was he to quit an advantageous position
to fight you upon equal terms 1 If you retired, the country re
mained his ; what knight-errantry, therefore, would it have been in
him, to leave his works and to attack your superior force ! Fabius
is his well-imitated example ; 'tis pity you could not make Han
nibal's yours. You was in hopes he would have been encouraged
by the reinforcements he had received from the Northern army.
You should not without blushing mention that encouragement,
which had arisen from your desertion of General Burgoyne's army,
and here, as in other instances, you make your crime your excuse.
" Your are now taking unwearied pains to detract from the
merit and the numbers of the friends of government, and you have

182 THELIFE OF
motives for urging this, since your total neglect of them when
they joined you, and your permission of a general, indiscriminate
plunder, can be palliated in no other way. Perhaps you reasoned
as your confederates in party have done, that they merited no better
fate who would not join their countrymen in this cause ; but these
gentlemen should consider, why an American loyalist has not an
equal right to his opinion with a British patriot, and why to dissent
from public measures in America is more criminal than to oppose
them in Great Britain. You once, sir, felt for these unhappy men,
whom you recommended to the notice of government as persons
' who had quitted the whole of their property and estates ; some
of them very considerable in value.' You have known of numbers
who, for their loyalty and attachment to this country, have been
imprisoned, banished and deprived of their estates by confiscation;
of very many who, endeavoring to join you, have been confined
in loathsome jails, tried for their lives and condemned to an ignomin
ious death, which several of them, and some with your commissions
in their pockets, have actually suffered, without the least interpo
sition on your part in their favor. How could you expect assist
ance from these people when they were thus treated ; when you
marched into the country only to abandon them to the fury of their
enemies, and when under your written protections they were ex
posed to the plunder of your army, and when in this unequal con
flict the King's friends were to suffer as traitors, while his enemies,
whom you affected to call rebels, were treated only as prisoners of
war? " The history of your own country might have taught you how
difficult the situation is of loyalty under the power of a usurper,
where the fear of punishment keeps every man in awe, where every
word is punishable, where every intercourse of sentiment is a con
spiracy, and every act treason. And yet, under all these discou
ragements, who have filled up your provincial corps, at several
times as numerous as your enemy's whole army, and what has been
their behavior when they were called into action at Brandywine,
at Fort Montgomery, and at Rhode Island, to mention no other in
stances 1 And as to your complaint of want of intelligence, it is
incumbent on you to point out what enterprises vou neglected to
make for want of intelligence, or in what attempts you failed

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 1S3
through false information. Was the destruction of the stores at
Danbury and Peekskill, the taking of General Lee, the attack upon
General Wayne by General Grey, effected without intelligence, or
is it a proof that you had no intelligence of the attack upon Ger-
mantown, because you made no preparations to receive it, and be
cause part of your army was surprised 1
"A review of your conduct and a detail of your military trans
actions, carry with them the severest censure ; but no part of this
falls to the share of your gallant troops. To your shame it will
appear, that they have never made one attempt in which they have
not succeeded, and have never once lamented the difficulty of an
attack, but always your backwardness in leading them to it.
" Had the time of your military inactivity been employed in
the business and attention of the statesman, some apology might
be made for it. But in vain do we inquire for the use you made
of the extensive powers you held, for any system you pursued
to encourage, and thereby to increase the numbers of the King's
friends, to conciliate the affections of the well-intentioned, to fix in
your favor the wavering and irresolute, or to reclaim the deluded
and misguided. You neither inspired terror nor courted friendship ;
and whether your conduct was more inglorious as a soldier, or in
judicious as a statesman, remains yet to be decided.
" Whether the conquest of America is or is not now practica
ble, is a question, though of the last importance, not material in
this discussion. If it is impracticable, as you now endeavor to
prove, the. greater is your crime in neglecting the favorable mo
ments when the case was otherwise. To argue from the present
actual state of America, in justification of your conduct when it
was in every respect totally different, is a subterfuge unworthy of
a candid man. The degree of discipline they have attained to, the
number of their resources, and the strength they have acquired
from their alliance with France, are to be ascribed solely to your
mismanagement. The idea of the comparative strength of this
country and of America, which you held in 1775, seems now total
ly reversed ; for then you concurred with General Burgoyne, that
the two hundred thousand men which General Lee boasted Ame
rica could bring into the field, would be no match for the power of
Great Britain.

184 THE LIFE OF
" In short, if America is lost to this country, it must be imputed
to you. The glorious opportunities you have omitted of putting
an end to this destructive war may never return, and the blood and
treasure which you have so wantonly and profusely squandered are
chargeable to you only. The loss of General, Burgoyne's brave
troops,* which has been attended with such fatal consequences, and
which fixed the then wavering disposition of France in a decisive
part against this country, is what you must answer for to this much
injured nation."
* " Gen. Burgoyne declared in the House, that a co-operation would have
saved his army ; and you yourself say that ' if General Washington's inten
tion should be only to retard the approach of General Burgoyne to Albany,
he would soon find himself exposed to an attack from New- York and from
Gen. B. at the same time ; from both which you flattered yourself he would
find it difficult to escape.' Letter of the 16th July, 1777. Thus would not
only Gen. B. have been saved, but even the enemy's principal army been in
danger from your united attacks."

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 185

CHAPTER IX.
A subject, and one to his mind of paramount importance, had
occupied Mr. Van Schaack's anxious thoughts in prospect of leav
ing his native country, and while crossing the ocean ; — the educa
tion of his three motherless children, whom he was necessarily
obliged to leave in the care of his friends at Kinderhook. The
paper which follows expresses his views and wishes on this inter
esting subject, and seems to have been " written in New- York and
at sea, in October and November, 1778."
" Having some time since made such a disposition of my proper
ty for the benefit of my three infant children as is agreeable to my
equal affection for them, I cannot help, before I leave this coun
try, to express my wishes on a subject of much greater concern,
and that is their education. It will be no arrogance to say, that by
my absence they will sustain an irreparable loss : — a loss the more
severe, as they have been deprived so early of one of the tenderest
and best of mothers, whose dying injunctions I should not have
failed, as far as I could, to have accomplished towards them. I
could wish their education to be as liberal as their expectations
will in prudence justify ; but I would be understood, that much as I
value learning, I would only have it considered in connection with
virtue and morality, and as the handmaid to these valuable endow
ments. It is my anxious prayer, that this sentiment may be strongly
impressed upon their tender minds.
" I am not over solicitous about the particular professions which
may be assigned to my sons, though I could wish one of them might
be brought up to that of the law, provided he has genius, abilities
and application for the purpose. Should that take place, among
my papers will be found sundry hints which may be useful to him ;
and, in my own practice, I hope an example will be found not
24

186 THE LIFE OF
unworthy of imitation, both with respect to industry and integrity.
To lay a foundation for this, or any other of the learned professions,
it will be necessary that my boys have the benefit of a good Latin
school, wherein I would have them particularly instructed in the
grammar. Too much pains in this article cannot be taken, as the
defect of it will render all their acquirements but a useless super
structure, void of any solid foundation. They should not leave their
grammar until they can read, with ease and advantage, Horace and
Tully. The translation of Latin into English and vice versa, and
what is called making Latin, I would wish them by frequent prac
tice to be well versed in. I could also wish that, in addition to the
school and classical authors, they might read Puffendorf de officiis
hominis et civis; but then it should be under the direction of a
person, who would by proper lectures and explanations make them
understand the author. Here, too, translations of particular parts
of the book would be of infinite service.
" Tully's Offices, also, should by no means be omitted. These
books, containing the foundations of the social and moral duties,
should be thoroughly understood. Occasionally/particular subjects
may be illustrated and enlarged upon, by giving them English
books upon the same topics.
" I would, above all things, have the principles of the Christian
religion inculcated upon their minds ; and this will open a field
for the most useful and instructive species of study. The evidence
by which revelation is proved, both internal and external, they
should be well acquainted with, and authors will be easily got to
answer this purpose.
" By this time I suppose they will have some knowledge of the
rules of logic ; which will teach them the principles of reasoning,
and enable them to distinguish between argument and sophism.
Duncan and Watts, with a little tract of Mr. Locke entitled the
Conduct of the Understanding, must be attentively read.
" The grand point to be attended to, is to acquire a habit of
attention, and to learn how to think. Their tutor will know the
extent of their abilities, before they can judge of it themselves. I
would wish them to have a confidence proportioned to their abili
ties, neither arrogant nor bashful. My daughter's education I am
not less anxious about, and I do flatter myself that she will be under

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 187
the eye of some of her female friends, who will pay every attention
that my anxious heart can wish !
" Cove of Cork, 28th November, 1778.
" It is my firm intention to improve these imperfect hints into
something more systematical, when I get to England ; however,
such as they are, I wish them to survive me, and therefore will not
again take them with me to sea, where I h'ave suffered more than
I can express on account of the little objects of my love, to whom
I hope this will prove a monument of my anxiety for their welfare,
and an incitement to application in their studies and virtue in their
conduct. While my heart overflows with tenderness for the dear
children, a thousand ideas crowd into my mind, which have their
improvement and their happiness in view, but these cannot now be
reduced into method.
" These, with other papers, shall be left with a friend at Cork,
who will preserve them in case any accident should unfortunately
happen to me.
" May the Almighty effectuate the good intentions which have
dictated this and every other plan I have formed for the benefit of
my children. "Peter Van Schaack."

In the prosecution of this plan, Mr. Van Schaack, on his arrival
in England, and as soon as he was left a little at leisure, by famil
iarity with the new and engrossing scenes to which he had been
introduced, commenced a series of letters, which he addressed to
his oldest son. The first seven of these letters were probably not
transmitted at their dates,* being evidently intended for future use,
and when his children, the oldest of whom was then in his twelfth
year, should arrive at a suitable age to comprehend their, contents.
The residue were sent. These admirable compositions are given
as they evidently first fell from the pen, and with scarcely any
emendations by their author. They speak their own praise.
* During the same period, however, a number of letters better adapted to
the years of his correspondent, were sent to America.

188 THE LIFE OF

TO HIS SON.
London, 13th Becember, 1779.
My dearest Harry :
My anxiety for your welfare, and that of your dear little brother
and sister, accompanies me through all the changing scenes of
life, and while it preys upon me, let me endeavor to make it pro
ductive of some good to you. When you will receive this, is very
uncertain : if not in my life-time, receive it as the well-meant exer
tions of your father, anxious that he may be useful to you, when
himself is no more ! The posthumous wishes of your best friend
will, I hope, touch your sensibility, not in unavailing sorrow for his
loss, but to stimulate you to accomplish his wishes and endeavors.
To your brother and sister you must supply my place ; and 0 ! my
dear Harry, let me beseech you to consider theirs and your own as
one common interest, not to be violated by little, selfish views.
Let integrity be your leading character, and study to be amiable.
I have thrown upon paper some cursory thoughts respecting
your education, which will perhaps admit of improvement in the
hands of those who will read them with attention. What I chiefly
would recommend to you, is, to learn how to think, and to acquire
a habit of attention to the subject you are upon, be it what it will.
This suggests an idea of what appears to me to be the chief and
fruitful source of the many errors of education. Boys' memories
are crowded and strained, while their invention and their judg
ment are left uncultivated ; and I would sooner have you gain one
idea, growing out of the seeds in your own mind, than possess fifty
which are transplanted there from a foreign soil. However, at
tention and reflection will make even the labors of others your
own, — that is, while you read, you must " mark, learn and in
wardly digest." Read little, but think much ; and whatever you
do read, whether for amusement or instruction, be able to give an
account of it. When you have read any book whatever, ask your
self. To what class of authors does this belong ? to which of the
arts and sciences, or to what branch of literature is this subject to
¦ be referred 1 what is the drift and design of the author 1 what is
the scope of the work ? what are the doctrines he would inculcate1!
by what reasonings does he support his positions, and what are

peter van schaack. 189
the beauties and excellences of the composition 1 are his argu
ments solid, or merely plausible and false 1 in what particulars
do the strength and force, or weakness and sophistry of them
consist 1
To these questions you will, in process of time, be able to add
many of your own, applicable to the particular subject your au
thor treats of. Every thing that helps you in the investigation of
one case, or enables you to remove some impediment that was in
your way in another, you must remark and set down in writing.
By an induction of several particulars in this way, you will be
enabled to form some general rules for the government of your
own mind, which will be of more service to you than all the di
rections of others.
Another hint you will find very useful : after you have read
any treatise, from your memory concisely write down what you
conceive to be the essence and principal matters of it. This will
fix it in your mind : then write down your own thoughts on the
subject, and state your objections, or add any arguments or illus
trations which may occur to your own mind. Do not be discou
raged at the difficulties which at first will stand in your way ; —
every subject will at first appear confused ; — but persevere and de
pend upon success.
When you first look at a map of a country, you are lost in the
variety of objects ; after a little inspection, you discover some one
more striking than the rest ; this is perhaps some capital city; you
then descend to others of an inferior kind, and at last become ac
quainted with the smallest and minutest parts of it. So it is with
almost every subject; there is a primary object, and there are
others of a subordinate and collateral kind. That, indeed, is to be
principally attended to, but these are not to be neglected.
If you do not like what you have written, destroy it again and
again, and do not damp your endeavors by too great timidity of
your talents. Remember that the greatest works have arisen
from the smallest beginnings ; but this is not done in a day. Rome,
the mistress of the world, was founded by a few shepherds and va
grants; — the greatest literary productions have proceeded from
those who in youth were deemed blockheads.
It will be of infinite use to take some particular subject, and

190 the life of
make yourself thoroughly master of it. Consider it maturely;
read every thing relative to it, and when you have compassed it,
recollect the means that aided you, and the difficulties which im
peded your understanding it. Talking it over with a companion,
stating*your conceptions of it, and hearing objections, will be of
gneat use. Questions of difficulty should be often discussed;—
these will teach you how much truth and falsehood are mixed to
gether ; — how nearly certain vices and virtues border on each
other, and how arduous a task it is to separate them in many cases.
As you should aim at truth, not victory, in your arguments, be not
ashamed to be confuted; however, that your side of the question
may not lose the justice you owe to it, study to acquire a presence
of mind, which may give you the full benefit of your understand
ing. Compare one instance wherein you was confused and asham
ed, with another wherein you was easy and composed, and you will
feel what advantage you had from self-possession, or lost for want
of it. My dearest Harry ! — the above rules, if well attended to,
however unornamented, will give you great advantage.
When you have learned the full extent of your own abilities,
and have distinguished to what subjects you are competent, and to
which you are incompetent, you will then know when to speak,
and when to be silent. But when you speak, let it be with mod
esty, and deference ; — suaviter in modo, fortiter in re, is a rule of
great use if rightly considered. Read Lord Chesterfield's disserta
tion on it, in one of his letters to his son.
I do not pretend to ascertain at what particular period the
above hints may respectively be best improved. The mind opens
itself at different ages in different persons ; nor is it always an ar
gument against the strength of genius, that it does not unfold itself
and expand early. The culture is more frequently faulty than the
soil. To understand the strength of the one, and adapt the other
to it, requires judgment and care, and I hope you will be under the
direction of those, who will be able to apply these rules and sug
gest others which will promote your knowledge. But, in all your
attainments, remember, my dear son, that the greatest excellence of
learning consists in its subservience to virtue; and when otherwise
employed, (which Heaven avert from you !) it will only increase
your condemnation. It may possibly give you fame, but never can

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 191
procure you esteem. Adieu, my dearest Harry, and believe me
ever yours. 
TO HIS SON.
London, 14th Becember, 1779.
My dearest Harry :
You must not think it strange, that you will find me repeat so
often my wish that you will use your utmost endeavor to acquire a
habit of attention. This cannot be too much inculcated ; in
your most trivial pursuits, and in your reading for amusement
merely, lay it not aside. Another rule which you will find extreme
ly useful, is, never to attempt doing two things at once, or doing
one thing and at the same time thinking of another.
In order to give you a taste for the excellences of writers, and
a fondness for reading, you should early look into some treatise on
rhetoric. This will furnish you with general heads, under which
you may yourself reduce particular passages in authors, the beauty
of which may attract your notice. I would have you get by heart
some pieces out of authors of distinguished reputation ; this will
strengthen your memory, and the more deeply impress their beau
ties on your mind. You will find a collection of these in the
Prfficeptor. I hope you will be fond of the Spectator, particularly the papers
under the signatures of the letters C. L. I. 0. ; those being the
production of that excellent man, Mr. Addison. They will, I
am confident, remain the standard of purity in style, as long as the
English language exists. I have no objection to your sometimes
reading a novel, or a play, which, if well chosen, afford an agree
able and rational amusement. You will see the human mind there
delineated in the strongest colors, and will observe some characters
which you ought to be as anxious to imitate, as you will be to
detest and shun others. You will have some idea of the scenes
which are exhibited in the great world, and be able to form useful
lessons, to guard you against the arts and fraud which are prac
tised in it. You will scarce read of any one species of villainy,
which is not every day carried on in the city of London alone.
Should your destiny ever lead you here, — I almost shudder at the
thought, — let me entreat you to come armed against the greatest
dangers, the strongest temptations ! But more of this hereafter.

192 the life of
Adieu, dearest Harry ! may you be happy, prays your most
affectionate friend, 
TO HIS SON.
True wisdom is so inseparably connected with virtue, that
while I have been endeavoring to assist you in the improvement of
your mind, I hope I have laid a foundation for bettering your
heart. Yet you will see instances, my dear son, of persons endued
with great talents and of extensive acquired abilities, who have
receded from virtue in proportion as they have advanced in science.
But their condemnation will be the greater ; and let me conjure
you not to be dazzled by the false glare of these ignes fatui.
They shine but to mislead and destroy. Would you see how
lovely is the union of great talents and great learning with virtue
and religion, look to Locke, Newton, and Boyle, among other
worthies which this country has produced. Let these, and such as
these, be the objects of your love, your admiration and your
imitation. As I have inculcated the utility of being well acquainted with
the force of your own mind, and the extent of your abilities, so I
would have you pursue the maxim — nosce te ipsum — with respect
to the disposition of your heart. Find out what are its evil pro
pensities, and which of the passions is the ruling one in your own
breast. When you have made the discovery, be unwearied in sub
duing these, as the most fatal enemies you can have to contend
with. Read the best writers, religious and moral, upon the subject;
compare the vices you are disposed to follow with their opposite
virtues, and persevere in your struggles to cultivate the one and
overcome the others. The greatest characters have felt the frailties
of human nature, and Socrates himself (the almost divine Socrates)
owned, that he was naturally addicted to the most flagitious pas
sions; yet he overcame his vicious propensities by the dint of
philosophy, independent of those superior aids which Christianity
affords ; aids which, when used, facilitate the conquest, but when
neglected, increase the guilt.
I would have your improvements in virtue accompanied with
the cultivation of your talents ; let me therefore close this letter
with advising you to think deeply upon the subjects you take in

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 193
hand. Revolve them over and over in your own mind. Digest
your sentiments thoroughly, reduce them to writing, put them in
various points of light, and converse upon them ; than which
nothing will more help to make you completely master of them.
I would recommend to you to have a common-place book,
wherein, under general heads, properly arranged, you may set
down such passages as more particularly strike you ; but if you
cannot at first please yourself, and find some of your companions
rather more forward than you are, do not be discouraged : you
may congratulate yourself, if you find in the subsequent year that
you can correct what you have done in the preceding ; and you
should choose to associate with such as are your superiors, — for
in the company of such you will receive instruction.
I would advise you early to enter into epistolary correspond
ences ; they will improve your thinking, and enable you to express
yourself with ease. Pope's Letters, Clarissa Harlowe, Sir Charles'
Grandison, are among those which at present occur to me; the
two last, also, will be entertaining as novels. When I speak of
Pope, I hardly know which of his works most to admire ; they
merit an eulogium which my pen is incompetent to. His Essay on
Man and his Moral Epistles should be read over and over again.
Becies repetita placebit. \
I give you miscellaneous thoughts, rather than a regular system,
though I hope to have time to methodize and correct them. As
they come from me, you will revolve them in your mind, and
depend upon it, at one time or another, you will experience their
usefulness to the great objects I have in view — your advancement
in learning and improvement in virtue. I have given you outlines
on which I shall separately descant at large hereafter. Adieu, my
dear boy, and accept what I write as the overflowings of a heart
devoted to you and your dear little brother and sister, who will
receive these my endeavors, I hope, largely improved through your
hands. 
TO HIS SON.
London, 22d Becember, 1779.
My dearest Harry :
I long exceedingly to hear of your having entered upon your
25

19 1 THELIFEOF
Latin, under the care of a good tutor, and a man of agreeable
manners, who will adapt his treatment of you to the disposition
nature has given you. Many a good genius is damped by undue
severity, and a pleasing modesty by the ill-judged behavior of
an austere master, degenerates into an awkward bashfulness.
On this subject, my dear boy, I could mention some particulars
respecting myself. My tutor, by a warmth of temper and an
unreasonable impatience when I hesitated, which frequently hap
pened from the influence of a native diffidence, would throw me
into confusion, so that I really lost the use of my recollection and
my presence of mind, and instead of giving me time to recover
myself, he would insist on my answering questions sometimes of an
intricate nature. I became possessed of an idea that my talents
were defective, and that I was not designed by nature to pursue
the paths of science : I therefore urged your honored grandfather,
who entertained all the partiality of parental fondness for me, to
permit me to leave my books, and to indulge me in my wishes of
going into the army. To this he was utterly averse ; and from
respect to him, as well as from a discovery I made, that though
my tutor behaved to me as if I was a blockhead, yet in my absence
he expressed himself favorably of me, I persevered, and soon found
myself advanced in my learning far beyond my own most flattering
expectations. While I wish by this example, my dear Harry, to save you
from an improper distrust of your own abilities, it would defeat my
well-meant purpose, if it made you over-ready to lay blame on
those who have the care of your education. Arrogance is a rock
you should as carefully avoid, as the opposite extreme of bashful
ness. Indeed, if the choice must lie between these extremes, (but
I hope for better things from you,) I should least dislike the last.
Meanwhile, let me indulge the fond wish that you will know how
to profit by this little incident in the early part of my life. It will,
I am sure, receive the more attention from you, as it relates imme
diately to your father, who is ready to draw off the veil even from
his own failings, if thereby he can promote your welfare.
Indeed, my dear, the advancement in life of you and of your
brother and sister, (and by this advancement I mean not the accu
mulation of wealth, but the improvement of your minds and of

peter van schaack. 195
your hearts in virtue and knowledge,) is now the great, almost the
only view I have in the world. A series of untoward events have
dissipated all my prospects in life ! It shall now be my effort to
make you, what once too sanguinely my friends hoped I would
have been myself. You, I hope, will live to see better days ; and
I beseech you not to indulge any resentment for what I have suffer
ed in the unhappy civil wars which have distracted our country.
In such scenes, distress is a common lot. But I wish you to be
well acquainted with the origin and the history of this great con
test, which will make an era not only in the annals of our own
country, but of Europe, and perhaps, in its consequences, of every
quarter of the globe. Study it therefore attentively ; not with the
heat of a bigot, but dispassionately, like a philosopher. Suffer
not yourself to be warped even by my conduct or sentiments rela
tive to it. Hear all, — judge for yourself.
Some such observations as these will probably at times occur
to you : how strange is it, that men of equal degrees of understand
ing, of equally enlarged and liberal minds, who have been educated
in the same schools, and in the same general principles of govern
ment, whose characters were equally fair and unblemished, and who
had actually the same identical interest and the same object, the wel
fare of their country, — that men so situated, and moreover intimately
connected by the strongest bonds of friendship, should have taken
opposite sides in this great cause! I mention not names; but
you will find that these observations are not fanciful, but have
arisen from facts, and have been instanced in characters which will
be made known to you. These considerations, I hope, will teach
you moderation, candor, liberality and charity in the judgment you
pass upon the conduct of others. Remember, my dear, both in
religion and politics, that you have only your own opinion that
you are right ; this indeed is the strongest guide for your own
conduct, but not for others. But, I desist : I meant not in this
place to have touched a subject, though very near my heart,
which I have elsewhere been more explicit upon. However, I
confine not myself to any particular method; I give you my
thoughts as they arise, and leave to you to arrange them more
methodically, both for your own use, and those of the little ones,
to whom jou will, I hope, supply the place of their parents. Only

196 the life of
be assured, (and I have pleasure in the repetition,) that all my
labors have for their object, the dear pledges left me by one,
who is now, I doubt not, among the saints in Heaven ! and that
in every wish I express for your welfare, I transcribe the charac
ters most strongly written on my heart, and particularly when I
pray that the Almighty will take you under his protection and
make you a good man !Yours affectionately,

TO HIS SON.
London, 11th January, 1780.
I have in my former letters told you, that I should wish you
to read some well selected novels, and in my recommendation to
you of the utility of an early epistolary correspondence, I have
mentioned two productions of the benevolent Richardson— Clarissa
Harlowe and Sir Charles Grandison. But the excellence of these
works is not confined to the entertainment afforded by a pleasing
narrative, or to the easy flow of language and familiarity of ex
pression, so ornamental to epistolary writings : you must Consider
them as calculated to promote the interests of religion, virtue and
true honor ; not indeed in the systematic way of the mere moralist)
but in a manner more attractive to a young mind, by exemplifying
and bringing them into action, in various incidents of life. It is a
trite objection to those two works, (but leading, that I know of, to
no one good purpose,) that they hold up characters too perfect for hu
man nature, and useless, as they are above the reach of imitation.
As well might we condemn every system, even the most perfe^
because men do not act up to the standard of it. But does it in
culcate virtue ? does it dissuade or deter from vice 1 are the material
questions, which every man must answer in the affirmative.
I will not discuss the subject, whether human nature is oris
not capable of the attainments mentioned in those works, or of the
virtues there delineated. It must be a mere abstract question : it
does not fall to the common lot to have the same opportunities,
the same occasions, the same trials ; but if it did, and the bulk of
men and women should, as they undoubtedly would, fall short of
those models, who can tell but there would be some who would

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 197
come up fo them 1 Many a virtuous character, my dear Harry,
languishes in obscurity, which, if called forth into action, would
rise to very high attainments, which, for want of the opportunity,
are supposed not to exist. Vicious ones indeed there are, too,
which for want of like opportunity, betray not their malignity,
though, unfortunately, (such is the state of the world,) imagina
tion can hardly draw a portrait so odious, of which, the original
may not, in every man's experience, be produced. ,Here, there
fore, the satirist has the advantage over the panegyrist. <
But, though all the incidents, various as they are represented,
can be supposed to happen to very few, if to any one, yet some,
if not many of them, may occur very frequently in life ; and not
knowing which may fall to the lot of particular persons, who are
yet liable to all of them, surely it is highly useful to know, how a
really good man ought to act under those circumstances, and how
a bad one probably would. The parent who puts into his child's
hand Seneca's Morals, will hardly expect him to exemplify every
precept there inculcated ; but he will not for that reason condemn
the moralist, or think his labors unuseful. Even from particular
incidents which may never happen to us, general rules may be
educed to guide us through those scenes that we may he called
forth to act in. Even those parts of this work which are sup
posed to be too prolix as to trivial matters, will be useful to young
minds, and will teach them a delicacy of sentiment, as well as an
ease and fluency of expression in the common occurrences of life.
Upon the whole, I have read those books with infinite satisfac
tion, and warmly recommend them to your perusal, and to your
attention ; nor have I heard one objection to them of any weight,
except (which was from a young lady) that in the character of
Lovelace, the vicious man was drawn in colors too agreeable.
But remember that a vicious man, with all the advantages of shi
ning talents and brilliant improvements — with all the exterior or
naments of person, rank, address and fortune — is still a monster,
and, thus accomplished, is for those very reasons the more to be
abhorred ! How would a Sir Charles Grandison, how would a
Clarissa have acted in this case 1 — will be a question every man
and woman should put to themselves, in every difficult scene of life.

198 THE LIFE OF
By the answer, (and let it be a candid one,) should, they regulate
their conduct. May this be the case of those I love !
Since writing the above, I have read a poem called an Elegy,
written in a country church-yard, by Mr. Gray ; where the idea
aimed at in one of the above paragraphs is beautifully touched.
Read it through— but what I allude to begins :
" Perhaps in this neglected spot is laid,
Some heart once pregnant with celestial fire,
Hands that the rod of empire might have sway'd,
Or wak'd to ecstacy the living lyre.
" But knowledge to their eyes her ample page,
Rich with the spoils of time, did ne'er unroll ;
Chill penury repressed their noble rage,
And froze the genial current of the soul."
Were I to hint at the instances in which those excellent novels
may be useful, I should mention, among others, the following :
1. The sentiments of religion and morality, of true honor and
integrity, of modesty, decorum and delicacy, which are mculcated
in them. 2. The application of them to occasions, of which many may,
and some of them must happen to us.
3. The model exhibited in them of easy, cheerful and innocent
epistolary correspondences, equally calculated to improve the mind
and meliorate the heart. The story so interesting, the incidents so
humorous, the characters so various.
4. The narrative, so good a guide to help us in relating com
mon, as well as unusual occurrences.
5. The dialogue, so improving, if well attended to, in enabling
us to uphold familiar and friendly, or serious and disputable con
versations, and to carry on with becoming spirit debates and argu
ments, upon subjects of right and wrong, and upon points of honor.
6. The agreeable and pertinent allusions.
7. The advantages, the happiness of family harmony! and
the miseries of disunion ; selfishness and want of affection amongst
those of the same household ! !

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 199
8. The excellence and purity of the style.
9. The insidious arts practised by the abandoned and vicious
of both sexes, and the snares and dangers to which youth and inex
perience are exposed, with the miseries that follow a departure, or
deviation from the paths of virtue and honor ; and in this respect,
10. The knowledge of the world to be gathered from these
books ; a knowledge acquired without the experience for which
numbers of poor wretches pay so dear ! 
TO HIS SON.
London, 20th January, 1780.
In the hints I have given for your education, and for the im
provement of your mind, I have occasionally remarked that learn
ing, with a view to its principal end, ought to be considered as the
handmaid to virtue. In other respects it may be ornamental, but
cannot be said to be useful. While I endeavor to cultivate and
enlarge your understanding, I mean thereby to enable you the more
distinctly to see your duty, and the more ardently to pursue it. Of
all the objects of this duty, you must be sensible that the first and"
greatest is your Creator — "in whom you live, and move, and have
your being." The different branches of which this great duty
consists, and the occasions and manner in which it is to be per
formed, are comprehended under the name of religion.
Young as you are, I do flatter myself that the principles you
have imbibed, my dearest Harry, under the instruction of your ex
cellent mother, (who should ever be before you as an example !)
are not, nor ever will be eradicated. These impressions will dis
pose you to practise ; but as your mind expands, I wish you to take
a comprehensive view of this great and most important subject.
To descend to particulars now, would carry me far beyond* the
limits I have prescribed to myself in these letters. Let me only
call your attention to the following points :
1. You should fully investigate and establish in your belief, as
the first article of it, that there is a God ; for this you need but
open your eyes and ears, for all nature proclaims it aloud through
all her works.
2. You should consider his attributes — his power, wisdom, jus
tice and .mercy.

200 THE LIFE OF
3. That as he is the Creator, so is he the Preserver and Gov
ernor of the world ; and this will carry you into the doctrine of
providenc e.
4. That his preserving and governing power is directed by cer
tain laws and regulations, some relating to the inanimate part of
the creation, others to brutes, and others to man.
5. That man being a creature endued with reason, is bound to
investigate the laws of his Maker relating to him, and to conform
his actions to them ; that he is therefore accountable for his con
duct, and that he will be punished, or rewarded, according to the
measure of his obedience or transgression of those laws.
6. But as no creature can be punished for his disobedience of
a law with which he is unacquainted, God has made his will, with
respect to mankind, known.
7. That this will is twofold, (as to the manner of communicat
ing it,) viz. 1, natural ; 2, revealed. The first is called natural re
ligion, because we are capable of attaining the knowledge of it
by the light of nature, or by the exercise of reason merely ; the
second is called revealed religion, because it is made known to us
by an immediate revelation from God, and because, though it co
incides with the former as far as that extends, yet it contains some
articles out of the reach of mere unassisted reason.
8. Mankind are generally agreed in the principles of the former,
but the latter has been the subject of much controversy, from the
cavils of unbelievers, who have boldly denied the Divine authority
of the Scriptures, notwithstanding the convincing evidence by which
it is supported.
9. This evidence is divided into 1, internal ; 2, external. Un
der the first head is proved the excellency of the Scriptures consid
ered in themselves ; the conformity of its rules and precepts to the
principles of natural religion and morality, and to the various rela
tions we stand in to God, to ourselves and to our neighbors, and
the comfortable hopes which it affords us under all the calamities
of this world, and of a happy immortality in consequence of a
well-spent life ; in this respect it is justly contended, that the Scrip
tures have infinitely the advantage over all other systems, which,
while they leave us exposed to the miseries of life, give us no ra
tional plan of futurity, wherein to ground hope or consolation"".

PETER VAN SCHAAtJK. 201
Under the second head are adduced the solid proofs- arising, from
prophecy and" miracle's; with which the Scriptures are supported.
These topics will bring you to an acquaintance with the most
celebrated- writers of this country, or of the world,.. among whom
Jet me mention a Locke,- Boyle and Sherlock. - -• ..
After you have thoroughly settled your, principles upon these
subjects,^ and others- connected, with th;em, you will read with
greater pleasure the sacred writings ; and I would more especially
recommetid to your frequent study, the four Gospels and the Acts
of the Apostles ; indeed, I hope you will be well conversant in
tiiem, before you are capable of understanding what I have now
written for your. use. -
-I cannot help repeating what I" have once before observed, that
the theological writers, if well chosen, and more> especially those
upon the evidences of religion, will be of infinite use to you in
almost every station of life, as in them you will have the most pen-
feet exemplars of good reasoning and of sound logic. •

TO HIS SON.-"-
London, 21st February, 1781.
My dearest Harry :
• There has.been a long interruption, in-that series of letters which
I began and made some progress in last year, and which I mean
to continue for.your benefit, and that of yourdear brother and sister.
I am happy to resume my plan,, by the pleasing accounts I have
lately .received concerning youv Your uncks inform me, that you
are not only making a rapid, progress in .your learning, but, at-a
public exhibition, have displayed indications of a free and unem
barrassed elocution- Go on, my dearest boy, in this glorious course,
and you will n.ot only be a public ornament -to your, country, but a
blessing to, your surviving parent, -as well as what your ever to be la
mented motheiTwished you to be:- JVly anxiety to see you everyday in
creases ; I want to Watch your genius, and assist in enlarging and
expanding it Lam anxious- "about the disposition of your heart.
I wish to cultivate your virtues, and to destroy the seeds of any
evil humors you- may find" mixing themselves' -with those virtues.
Meanwhile, at whatever season of your life this may reach you, let
26

202 • .THE LIFE OF
it be your_endeavor to know yourself.- Examine your heart with
the-most unwearied. attention,-afid you will certainly find- out means
of promoting and adorning your good qualities, as well as of over
coming the faulty ones. I know you have a. tender and an affec
tionate- heart. You have already had your troubles, and in those
moving scenes which I -hope you will never forget, you behaved in
a most becoming manner!. Let nobody persuade you to be
ashamed, of this sensibility, as of a weakness. If it is a weakness,
it is an amiable one, without which man would be a worse animal
than the most ferocious beasts of the wilderness.
With this knowledge of your heart, I am not discouraged with
the "recollection of a little peevishness of disposition which I dis
covered in you : I do not however impute this so much to your nat»
ural temper, as to the ill state of health you- Was subject to in
your childhood. But^nry dear boy, -oppbse it wifltaU -your reason,
aSrthe most- dangerous enemy to. your happiness, and to 'the quiet
and repose of your breast, as well as to your health and constitution.
Remember, ira brevis furor est — it is high treason against : the sove
reign authority "of reason, which is placed in the human breast by
God himself, as the Governor and Ruler of our actions. It is an
enemy, which-, if -not subdued, will daily gain strength, and at
length usurp those powers io which it owes the most submissive
obedience. •-•--./ - ' ;
You will riot, I hopej think me disposed to find fault, when I
caution you against a propensity 'which I think I have discovered
in some of your actionSjio an over- fondness of money .~ This sub
ject mixes itself so inuchan every situation of life, that it behooves
you to obtain proper- sentiments relative to it. A thousand fine
things have been, said against the vice of avarice, and as many
against that-of profusion. For.-these I refer you to the moralist*.
My view is only to. point it .out as a subject fpr yo.uf reading and
meditation. - . It is impossiblefor .me to say any thing newonsq beaten
a topic. Both these vices are destructive of character, of health, or
of happiness. The-proper medium is economy, which will preserve
you from want, afford you the conveniences of life, and enable you
occasionally to- exercise -the Christian and divine' virtue of charity to
your distressed -fellow-creatures. In this: sense, economy is the
very source of generosity.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 203
You will, in . all probability, have enough to procure you a
good-education as well as a .^profession, which would, be sufficient
with a proper industry and a good moral character* .But, I trust
you will have something more. As soon as you come to the
possession of this, and have the direction of your own actions, you
must form a plan of life, and -regulate your expenses. Form an
estimate in writing of the different articles of expense; and allot a
certain sum for each,, which will -show" you what. sphere, in. life
your income will allow you to move in.. This has been my method
weekly, and, though in London, -""where a thousand amusements
every day spread their -temptations, and where' ray finances were
so small as not to ^be-worth naming, I have always lived, within
bounds. By. -a little experience,- I could ascertain the necessary
expense of eating, "drinking, lodging,- Washing, and dress; and if
I sometimes, intrenched upon one article, I made it-my Business to
replace the excess bv borrowing from another-. Digest this little
plan and improve.and enlarge upon it, and you will. live free from
the imputation of meanness as Well as of prodigality.
I trust, you will, not have occasion to be quite so. exact as -I
am compelled to be ; — a necessity which excludes, me from many
very useful pursuits, -and .which will therefore, in its cemsequenee,
deprive you as well as myself of the advantages I might derive
from a more enlarged sphere, of life.. Let me add,' that when you-
have ascertained, what you, can 'ajid will spend per annum, part
with your money freely, "and without regret afterwards ; and what
you give to the poor, let it be done with a cheerful heart, and
e: not grudgingly."
The just medium in your- expenses, and the propriety of your
conduct in thisr article, as- in all others, will depend much on your
choice of friends and companion's. This will deserve a- little essay
by- its.elf, arid is. a most important, a. most interesting subject, on
which I most ardently pray' to God that you may be enabled to
form just and proper notions .' Here I wish you may inherit 'some
of the sagacity of your grandfathers. .They Were two of the best
observers of men's .characters, and saw deeper into, them, than -an^
two persons I have ever known. • Attention and observation will
be of infinite use to you upon' this subject as well as every .other ;
and I do flatter myself, that you wiU enter upon the stage of- life

204 -THE X IFE- OF
with a competent knowledge of the principles of moral philosophy,
ethics, and the 'relative. duties of man to man, in- the different sta
tions of Jife, publicand private, wherein they areplaced. .
-: In. short/I wouldhave you very early fix a character, in which
Lhope virtue, integrity, honor,- consistency, and a pleasing frank
ness of deportment, will have their share. In every -action, of your
life, consider how far the part you are going to .-act, is consistent
with this character. In your, profession, .whatsoever it may be,
(for" I will -consult only the bent of your genius in, the. choice,) con
sider-well'-- the peculiar characteristics of an amiable .and honest
man in that profession, and-.whether ft be a merchant, a lawyer,
a physi(Jian,.or a divine, aim at the more solid though less-glaring
character,, of a good rather, than a great, one; though. T hope you
will be both the one and the other ._¦'. , '--

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 205

; OH APT E R X.
'. - .TO HIS SON. - London-, 2d October, 1781.
Mv uearest Harry :
"It is now several months since the^date of your last letter, but I
will-not' complain ofyoursilehee as a neglect, because I know you love
me; nor will I suppose it proceeds from idleness, because I know
. you have too much sense to be idle. I impute it, therefore, to your
•elose attention to youf studies, by which you must be convinced
that you will make me more happy than by any thing else. How
ever, do not eonfine yourself altogether to"- your Roman- acquaint
ances', -respectable as they are f but be assured, that neither. Virgil
hor Tul-ly wiU' find fault "with you foE- bestowing a few hours in
.writing *9 your father. -,-•,, .. .
I expect to heacr>a great deal of your improvements, and I am
sure I need not tell -you that every succeeding letter must be mOre
correct than the, preceding — mon progrediestYegr^dij^m learning,
as well as in moralsafid in--manners. Let me find, therefore, that
you are not only wiser every day, buf, if possible, a better -boy than
-when I left you :- -by this you will make me -happy indeed ! " Tell
me in what- manner you spend yetir time, what books youhave
read in English, as well- as in 'Latin, &c, &c. ; and inform- me also
how and where'your dear little brother and sister are. -I hope you
see them ofte'ni and take great care of them, and remember . that
ybu are not only bound to teach -and instruct-them, which, as I am
informed that you are an orator ybu will be able to-do with great
energy; but also tO;set them an example worthy of imitation. -Kiss
them a hundred times- for me:
Present- my .affectionate regards to your grandmamma, and
uneles-, and aunts, as well as to all other friends, and most particu-

206 THE LIFE 0T
larly to those who are most- kind -and attentive to. you. My. com- -
pliraents also to your tutor. - - - -¦¦ *
I am, mydearest Harry, ,
Your very affectionate^fafber and" friend,
Peter Van-Schaack.
TO HIS SON. . London, 1st July, 1782^, - - ,
Myjdear Harry : , ^
I sit down with inexpressible pleasure- to acknowledge the re
ceipt of two of your letters, dated in December and February Jast.
Thes.eproofs.of your attention induce me to suppress a letter, in which
I had taxed you. with neglect, or rather remissness, in your episto
lary duty ; but to convince you that no harshness accompanied my
charge, I must, tell you, that 1 imputed your silence-solely tayour
close application to -your studies ; but then let- me remind you, that
oneduty ought potto be performed at- the expense of smother, and
that a judicious distribution of your time, will enable you to discharge
both. You must not be discouraged from writing- by diffideifc,feof.
your accomplishment in.this "desirable-part:of education,"; (.as. you '
justly express it.)' You -are yet young, and^must riot despair ruf at*
taining-any meritorious,-object you have in view. Remember " labm
improbus onvnia vincit ;" so says your Virgil,. whom,-as I hope he is
a favorite author of yours, I will make-no apology for quoting ;
and,as you- are a scholar, I shall escape the imputation of pedantry,
which I should incur by using an unknown language. This dis
tinction y.our: own observation- has suggested to- you lone- ago, I
dare say. - - ' -. ..:;"'
Your ietfers are not quite. so ..correct "as I could -wish; but as I
find each succeeding one better than the preceding, I have the most
sanguine hqpes of your. future attainments. By the by, I hope
you are Hot a/r.aid«f the trouble of frequently -.turning to yourdk>
tionary, both- with respect to your orthography and-the-true '.sense
and meaning of the words you use yourself, or which you-toeet with
in- your .reading. I shall sometimes, usea hard word on pujpose. to
give you this beneficial employment ; and perhaps occasionally
I shall apply it with a degree of impropriety, jn order'togiveygu
an- opportunity of setting me right, for you must .take nothing
upon the mere ipse dixit of any one, not even^of your father.. .

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 207
.,1 thank you for the account you gave me of your theatrical
exhibition. So far as this may. be conducive to an easy and grace
ful elocution, it may be useful ; but methinks I would not wish you
"to be over fond of it. The play you mehtionf(with the judicious
distinction you make) is an excellent one, and is full of noble sen
timents, with which I hope you will be properly impressed. I;wish
you had spoken the prologue; but I doubt not that you .are so
much pleased with it that you have got it by heart. My Juba has,
however, forgotten to tell me who was his Marcia. The next time
you must give me the whole dramatis personce.
Upon the subject of your going to college,. I know not what to
say, wishing to submit. that matter altogether to your kind friends
upon the spot. I am perfectly satisfied with the seminary you
mention, but I think you are quite young enough yet. I am not
so anxious that you should be employed in a great many things, as
that you should thoroughly understand a.few. I remember; I had
advanced as far" as Justin, under one tutor,, and when put. to
another, I could not . explain the difference between a noun sub-
' stantiye and a noun adjective. . The consequence was, I was
obliged to begin my rudiments again ; but by being closely con
fined to my grammar, parsing and making of Latin, a proper
foundation was soon laid, to which I am altogether indebted for
what little improvements I afterwards made.
A habit of. attention, a capacity of thinking and of comparing
your own ideas together, and a fondness of application, are the
grand objects of my wish with respect to you. I have employed
part, of my time for your -benefit, and you, will receive the fruit of
it as the best legacy I can leave you, should you never see me —
but T trust God in. his mercy. will, not doom us" both to so hard a
dispensation !. As- soon as I am out of my present suspense with
respect to my complaint, I. shall at least make the attempt to see
you. It is in our own Gountry I wish to see you, but if, unfor
tunately, that can not be, (which Heaven avert,) it must be else
where. - ¦ - _ , : .
If you should go to college,- I dare say you will have a great
deal of good advice from your friends, and you will doubtless be
told that you -should be very intimate with only a few, but at the
same time polite and affable to alLyour brother students, to whom

208 , THE LIFE OF
youy behavior :shquld.be free from all sort of pride or haughtiness.
Good nature is one, of the most'-- pleasing and engaging qualities.
Cultivate if; my dear son, and-every.body will love you. You will
soon distinguish some characters among the youmgigentlemenwho*1
are more amiable than others, and,-such, I hope, you. will be fond
of imitating; I hope I shall notihear of your getting. into any
quarrels, but 'if you should be so unfortunate,,you ought -to- behave
in such a manner as to obtain the approbation of the impartial,'/
With respect to your expenses, you will be prudent, but- avoid
the remotest appearance of meanness or stinginess — that is con
temptible. You shall never want any reasonable allowance, and-
I am sure you will not wish more.' Askjwhat is necessary, and
spend it freely.
I have just now a letter from your cousin Harry Walton, who ">¦
is safely arrived in theDowns,. and. will be with me in' a fewdayss.
He will be at one of the- best schools, but I trust that- when ydu
and he meet, ybu w-ill be able to show that an American education
is equal to an English one. I shall tell him that I have suggested Ai
this to you, and as you start pretty equal, so I hope you will make ;
equal exertions " optatam cursu contingere metam," (as.your friend
Horace has it.) A friendly emulation in so glorious a career will
do you both great honor, and I doubt not but that whoever -of you
is foremost, the other will generously acknowledge the superiority
without a spark of envy, that basest and most diabolical -of all the
passions. Look at the picture of it in your Praeceptor and the
description in Ovid, and you will be convinced of this. When you
meet, I hope I shall findyoq both' cantare pares et fespondere parati,
and that I shall have the same difficulty (from the cleverness of
both of you) which Virgil had ahout adjudging the palm" to either
of the candidates. '¦ --" '
Make my best compliments to Mr. NicoHj of whom I have
had a most favorable account -frona.his former pupil Master Harry
Cuyler; who is here and much beloved at" school.- It is extremely
pleasing when the tutor and pupil speak well of each otherrafil
does honor to both.' I hope it will always be your case. ' '
Remember me with dutyto your grandmamma, arid with affec-
fection to all my friends and all your friends, and believe me,-
Most tenderly and affectionately yours,
«. P. V. Schaack.

peter'van schaack. 209
TO HIS SON. i%
London, 12th January, 1783.
My dear Harry : . »
I wrote to you on or |lbout the 1st November last, since
which I have received your favor of the 28th September, which
was the more acceptable as you promised me a longer letter soon.
I fear, however, that I shall be disappointed in the hopes I indulged
from this promise, as I find your uncle expects me at New-York.
On this subject I have'written to him, and pointed out the necessity
I am under of remaining here, till the faculty decide my fate with
respectto undergoing an operation or not. When that is determined
I shall take my resolution about my long-wished-for return ; mean
while I beg you will not desist from writing often ; for should I
never receive your letters, they will however answer the valuable
purpose of improvement to yourself, for what Virgil says of fame
is strictly applicable to the mind in all its exercises — vires acquirit
eundo. Be assured that much of my thoughts is employed about you ;
to make you happy in yourself, agreeable to, and beloved by your
friends, a*nd a useful member of society, are the important objects.
I have in view. On your part I desire little more than that when
I meet you, I may find you free from any bad habits. If you are
but in the right track, and steer by a good compass, I shall be
pleased though you go on but slowly, and shall expect you to reach
your desired port more expeditiously as well as more certainly,
than if you were to sail at random never so swiftly. Your grammar
must be your Palinurus amidst the difficulties of your voyage, till
you have the Italian shore in full view ; nor should you therineglect
the faithful pilot, but treat him like an old trusty servant, whose
future services you no longer want, but whose past good offices
you retain the benefit and a remembrance of.
I thank you very much for your pretty quotation, and the ten
der filial wish which it contains : it is in your own power, my dear
boy, to accomplish that wish, and to ' be what you desire.' On my
part, I shall earnestly endeavor to merit from you the honorable
testimony which Horace pays to his father ; insuevit pater optimus
hoc me, &c. — apropos, of Horace, let me recommend to you an
27

210 THE LIFE OF
attentive perusal of five or six lines in the fourth Satyre of the first
book, beginning at the hundred and thirty-third line, or rather also
a sentence before that. I am sure you will be pleased with the
precept as well as inclined to follow the example.
I am not desirous that you should read a great deal, but I
expect you will understand what you do read, and I could wish
that you would select a few favorite passages out of every author
you read to convince me of your attention as well as of your taste.
Collect these in a little book to be shown to me on my arrival, and
be assured, I will reward you amply for your pains. Your cousin
Harry Walton intends to write to you, as I wish you would to him,
without regard to ceremony. He is a good boy, of a most sweet
temper, and makes a good progress in his learning. He is excel
lently well grounded in his grammar — mind that .
How does Buck come on in his learning 1 He is now, tell him,
almost seven years old, and if he cannot spell apple-pie, he should
not be allowed to eat it. Kiss him and your dear little sister for
me, and tell them both I will bring them a great many pretty
things, provided they are good children. You must also remem
ber me to all my friends and all yours, particularly to your aged
grandmamma, to whom I hope you behave dutifully. Adieu ! my
dearest boy, and be assured " num lectulus, aut me Portions ex-
cepit," I never fail to think of you, being always,
Your most affectionate father and sincere friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HIS SON. London, 25th March, 1783.
My dear Harry :
I have, not had a line from you for several months past, which
gives me great concern ; however, I firmly expect that the next
vessel from New-York will bring me the long letter you promised
me some time ago. The inclosed is from your cousin Walton,
which I dare say will afford you pleasure, and soon produce an
answer from you. I say soon, for you must never delay, or put off,
doing your duty. You should give your kinsman some account
of your academy, such as the number of students, the division of
your classes, the books you read, your hours of study, your recrea-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 211
tions, &c, and you may tell him who is the best scholar in each
class ; but this should be in confidence, lest it should be thought
presumptuous in you to give an opinion upon so important a point.
You must be very careful how you pass judgment upon the merits
and qualifications of others. Take care of the beam in your own
eye, but do not expose the moat in that of others.
I suppose by this time you have had some few lessons in geog
raphy and chronology, which will very much assist you in reading
history. When I have the happiness of seeing you, and of giving
you an account of my travels, I will enable you to trace them upon
the map. I had a present the other day of a very fine atlas, which
shall be for your use. Pray do you ever write themes, and upon
what subjects have you employed your thoughts and pen 1 What
could you say upon that admirable sentiment in Terrence — Homo
sum, humani nil a me alienum puto ?
I left behind me a little book called " Cicero's Thoughts,"
which I recommend very much to your perusal, if it is but a page,
or even a paragraph at a time. When you meet with any rare
passage in any of the books you read, pray transcribe it, and keep
it to show me when we meet. Believe me I will reward all your
labors in this way, most bountifully. If you will but take as much
pains to improve yourself, as I will to instruct you, you will make
me happy. 1 hope I may be able to say of my instruction to you,
what Shakspeare says of the quality of mercy, " It is twice bless'd
— it is bless'd in him that gives and in him that receives."
How does Buck come on in his reading 1 Tell him I will not
return to Kinderhook, till he invites me by a letter of his own writ
ing ; so if he wishes to see me he must learn to write. I hope he
and your dear little sister are well, and that all of you are happy
and contented. Kiss them for me. My duty to your grandmamma
and love to all your friends, for be assured that all such are mine.
I am, my dearest, beloved boy,
Your most affectionate father and friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HIS SON. London, 11th May, 1783.
My dear Harry :
When you receive this letter, or very soon after, you will have

212 THE LIFE OF
the pleasure of seeing your namesake and uncle, Cruger. It is no
small mortification to me that I cannot accompany him, but my
anxiety to see you and your dear brother and sister must still he
suppressed for one year longer — a tedious time it will be ! With
your uncle goes Mr. Mullet, a gentleman who has been very civil
to me, in return for which I hope you will treat him with respect-.
and attention. Buck and Betsey must love him for my sake. I
must beg that you will be a Cicerone to these gentlemen, that is
to say, you must show them all the curiosities about Kinderhook,
and be their guide. Point out to them the beauties of the Blue
Mountains, though at a distance, and go with them to the falls
upon the great Kinderhook Creek above and below you— Qm
nemora, aut qui saltus habuere Naides Puellas — you will show
them. Those majestic hills you may compare to Mount Parnassus,
or Atlas, and these pure streams to those of Helicon. Parva licet
componere magnis.
I have desired my friend Mr. Mullet to give me a very particu
lar account of you, and I hope it will be a most pleasing one:
however, do not be afraid that he will be too severe or critical,
as he will make every allowance for your youth, &c. If he finds
you a good-natured, well-disposed, cheerful little fellow, I shall
excuse almost every thing else. Good breeding, I need not men
tion, because I cannot suppose it possible you should be wanting
in that ; but by this I do not mean that you should bow and scrape
like a dancing master. Your uncle Cruger will give you a great
deal of good advice with regard both to your manners, and the
carriage of your body. Apropos : How tall are you 1 And tell
me the height of the little ones also, between whom I suppose you
are, Quantum' lentus solet inter Viburna Cupressus.
Your cousin has lately written to you. He is in better health
than he was before he came to England, and continues a good boy.
He has sent you a book of his drawings, in which he improves
very much. You must not be jealous of him because he possesses
this accomplishment and you do not. There are many roads be
sides, that lead to fame, and I shall be full as well pleased if you
take that in which Virgil and the other Roman poets will be your
guide. I mean that you should be a good classical scholar— nm
omnia possumus omnes. I wish much to. know what sort of

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 213
reading and study you are most inclined to. Tell me how you
come on with your rhetoric, in which I wish you to be well versed,
though I would not have you like Hudibras, who, you know,
" Could not ope
His mouth but out there flew a trope."
It is a very long time since I was favored with any of your
letters, which is no small mortification to me. I ought to hear
from you at least once a month. Surely, my dear boy, you cannot
think much of the trouble of writing to your father and your friend.
I would go to the world's end to make you happy. But perhaps
your letters have miscarried, at least I am willing to think this has
been the case. You cannot write too often. If you find it diffi
cult to express your thoughts, do not be discouraged. Practice
will overcome it all, iterum iterumque tentandum est.
Remember me to your grandmamma in the most dutiful and
affectionate manner, and also to all our relations and connections
as if particularly mentioned by name. Kiss Buck and Betsey for
me. I hope you are a kind and tender brother to them ; in my
absence you must be their guardian and protector, and they, I
hope, will love and obey you. FUi mi dilectissime, vale !
Your affectionate father and constant friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HIS SON. London, 25th June, 1783.
My dearest Harry :
I thank you for your letter of the 1st April, and hope soon to
receive one from you, dated at New- York. For the future our let
ters will come to each other sealed. When you write to me, let
no one see your letters, nor dictate to you— write in your own way,
and with as much freedom as you would to a brother, or a friend.
I will make every allowance for errors and incorrectnesses that
you can wish, but not for idleness or inattention — these are inexcu
sable. Tell me freely who has been most kind and attentive to
you, and your dear little brother and sister. All such shall be
doubly and trebly my friends. Which of the boys are your friends
and favorites, and for the sake of what qualities have you given

214: THE LIFE OF
such the preference 1 Virtue, good sense, and good nature, are
the basis upon which you must build your friendships. Cultivate
these qualities in yourself, and you will be esteemed and beloved,-
Treat every body kindly and with good manners, and take care to
make no enemies by any ill-natured or severe expressions. If you
have wit, let it never go forth but when it is directed by good na
ture. If you have made any enemies by your own improper con
duct, candidly confess your fault, ask their pardon and promise
reformation. This seeming humiliation, will be a real exaltation
of your character. It is an excellent maxim, Ignoscito scepe alteei,
nunquam tibi. Of Cato it was said, Nihil oblivisci solerat nisi
injurias. Keep a watch upon yourself, but be liberal and indulgent
to others in every thing but their vices.
As to books, I hope you will get a supply at New-York ; get
also a plenty of stationery, and do not spare your pen, ink and
paper, especially when you write to me. Do not be discouraged
if you cannot please, yourself at first, but scratch and alter, and
tear your paper a hundred times, till you please yourself. Nothing
will imprint your ideas more strongly, or assist your memory bet
ter, than committing your thoughts or those of others to writing.
Mind your grammar and avoid false concord, and false govern
ment. There were some of these in your last letter, but upon the
whole it is a very good one. Mind your capital letters where you
place them. A little use and attention will make all this very easy
to you. I hope you will tell me all you see at New-York worth
mentioning. When I have the pleasure of seeing you, you shall
have a journal of my travels, which I intend soon to extend to
France and Holland. Next spring I hope to have the happiness
of embracing you and the little ones ! Tell me something about
Buck and Betsey. God bless you, my dear boy ! is the prayer of ^
Your affectionate father and friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
P. S. I wish you would make a list, or catalogue of all my
books. Your cousin Harry is now in the same room with me, and
reading Virgil in order to recite and parse a lesson to me. He is
at the 161st line of the 3d Ma. What book of this sweet poem
are you now in ? I hope you are fond" of it, and do not fall asleep,
or feel tired while you are reading such excellent authors.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 215
TO HIS SON. London, 11th August, 1783.
My dear Harry :
It is now some time since I received your letter dated at New-
York, and I return you many thanks for it, while I am to ask your
pardon for so long delaying my answer. Be assured tha,t it has
not proceeded from inattention — that never can happen, for I hard
ly ever cease to think of you, and with the most tender and anx
ious concern for your welfare. My heart trembles whenever I
open letters that I think will make mention of you, lest they should
communicate some unpleasing tidings — think of this.
Your aunt Cruger gives me a very good account of you. She
says you behave very well, that you speak correctly, and have but lit
tle of the country accent. Try to get the better of it altogether.
You should accustom yourself to read out and with an audible
voice, and as often as you can in presence of some good judge ; I
hope you are not too proud to be corrected when you are wrong ;
whoever will do that with kindness and candor, should be esteem
ed as your best friend. Even if it is done harshly or rudely, you
should endeavor to profit by it. Fas est et ab hoste doceri.
I am happy to have such favorable accounts of your cousin
Francis, because such an amiable campanion will encourage you
to continue going on in the paths of virtue. If your temper is not
naturally so good as his, you should endeavor to amend it. Be
assured your efforts will be crowned with success. You doubtless
I remember the story of Zopyrus, the physiognomist, and Socrates,
i the great, the good Socrates. Read it over and over again, and
I make some practical improvements upon it.
1 '• You make me happy with the favorable report you make of
our dear little Buck and sweet little Betsey. Remember that you
• must take very particular care of them in my absence. You are
so much older than they are, that you must be their guardian till
I can take them and you too, under my protection. Most anxious
ly do I look forward to that happy time, which I trust will be in
less than a twelvemonth ! Then, my dearest Harry, will you be
convinced that you have in me not only a fond parent, but a warm
and sincere friend- If I find you a good, virtuous boy, be assured

216 THE LIFE OF,
that you shall have every indulgence you can desire; but I need
not tell you that I shall not overlook your faults. It will be my
constant study to help you to get the better of them, but I must
find a disposition in you to exert all your powers for this purpose.
My affection for you is very great, but it will not hinder me from
distinguishing between your good qualities, and such as are excep
tionable; — the former I trust will be many, the latter very few, if any.
I want to know a great deal about you, and, to tell you the
truth, I have desired some of my friends to give me your real cha
racter in all its particulars; now this being the case, you ought to
consider what will be said of you, and to that end you should ex
amine yourself very seriously. If you find that you are subject to
certain passions and humors, which you think would prevent your
being beloved and esteemed, try all you can to get the better of ;
them. Horace says of anger, "nisi paret, umperet." This may
be said of all the passions. I wish you would sit down and write
your own character, and describe yourself. Some painters draw
their own faces, and why should you not draw the picture of your
own heart 1 To make the picture true, they are indeed obliged
sometimes to expose deformities, but then they cannot help them,
whereas the deformities of the mind may all be got the better of,
and converted into beauties, as was the case with Socrates. I ex
pect you will give me an account of the manner in which you have
succeeded in this important business.
Your letter from Kinderhook to your uncle, was not so neatly
written, as that to me from New-York; how happened that, my
dear boy 1
I am glad to hear that Buck grows such a fine fellow, and
that he can read any part of the spelling-book. You are doubtless
of great use to him, as well as to little Betsey. You must teach
them to understand as well as to read. But, above all, teach them
to be good children, and support your doctrine by your own ex
ample. When you write to me, tell your brother and sister of it,
and ask what they have to say to me, and do you mention it in
their own words. Kiss them for me, and tell them how much I .
love th.em. Give my love also to all your cousins. Tell my I
godson, Peter Van Alen, that I should be glad to hear from him,
and that he must inform me about all his brothers and sisters.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 217
-¦*
Your cousin Francis, also, I should be glad to hear from in the
same way, relative to his brothers and sisters.
I hope you do not think my letters too long. If I could suppose
that to be the case, it would make me unhappy indeed. The
longer yours are, my dear boy, the more acceptable they always
are to me. May Heaven bless and protect you, my beloved son,
and be assured that I am,
Your most affectionate father and friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HIS SON. London, 22d Nov., 1783.
My dear Son :
I was made very happy by your letter of 21st August, which
I received only four days ago. This circumstance of its old date,
which might be thought to lessen its value, does in fact greatly
enhance it in my estimation, for your uncle assures me that it is
all of your own composition, as all your future letters shall be. I
therefore consider, that if my dear boy could write so good a letter
the 21st of August, it does him more honor and therefore ought to
give me more pleasure, than if it had been written when he was
two months older. It is for this reason only that I value its distant
date, and not because I am turned virtuoso or antiquarian, who
value every thing that is ancient merely for its being so, and prize
it the higher even for the very rust, which it has contracted by
age. Perhaps you will not understand what I allude to, as no
such characters have probably as yet come to your knowledge.
As you are to write your own letters without being inspected,
let me advise you to read some instructions upon the subject of
epistolary composition, which you will find in the Prseceptor, in a
letter addressed, I think, to Master F  . The great thing you
must aim at, is to draw off your attention from all other subjects,
and confine it solely to the business you are upon, and check your
self whenever you find your thoughts are wandering from it.
When you have well revolved in your mind what you intend to
say, then choose the best language to express it. Do not spare
your dictionary, which will furnish you with a choice of words ex
pressive of the same idea, and thereby enable you to avoid tau-
28

218 THE LIFE OF
tology. If you cannot please yourself with what you have written",
tear it and begin again of a new — ludibria ventis.
Grammatical accuracy must also be observed. Government
and concord are indispensable, and you should be able to parse
every sentence you write. Your verbs with all their moods and
tenses, and nouns with their genders, numbers and cases, must be
attended to. If you find yourself puzzled in forming a sentence in
one way, try another. Invert and alter it in every possible way,
till you please yourself. Sometimes you will find help from striking
out the active verb and accusative case, and substituting the passive
with a nominative, and vice versa. In short, my dear Harry, spare
no pains in forming your style and writing with correctness, and be
assured you will succeed. You ought to mind your stops, and
take care how you use your capitals, which ought to be only in
the beginning of a sentence, and in substantives ; and especially
ought never to be omitted in proper names of persons and places.
You will perhaps think this a dull, dry letter, but do not slight it
too much.
I hope you are exact about your letters and papers, and keep
them in neat order. Do not wear them out in your pockets, but
preserve them in files nicely indorsed. Apropos, you do not fold
your letters cleverly, and you must not have margins.
I am very much obliged to you for correcting my errors, which
I hope you will continue to do. In the present case, you have
done it with a true gentlemanlike delicacy. This will render you
a valuable critic to your friends, and I hope you have candor
enough to hear your own faults pointed out to you, and to amend
them. Your cousin Francis and you should mutually perform
these good offices to each other. Why does he never write to
me 1 Tell him how happy I shall be to hear from him.
You have given me great pleasure by your happy quotation
from the beautiful ode of Horace, and I shall profit by your advice.
You should read the introductory remarks upon it, showing the
occasion and the design of it. Si fractus illabatur orbis, impam-
dumferient ruina. Does not this remind you of Cato's address to
the soul — " the stars shall fade away," &c. — " the war of elements,
the crush of worlds, and the wreck of matter," &c. Horace is a
charming fellow. Pope says of him,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 219
" Horace still charms with graceful negligence,
And without method talks us into sense."
I hope some of your friends occasionally point out to you some
of Pope's many beauties. " The Essay on Man" is rather too deep
for you to comprehend the system and the chain of reasoning
in support of it, but there are passages in it which will very
much please you, such as the noble exordium, and the sublime
conclusion — " Awake, my St. John !" &c, and " Come then, my
friend, my genius, come along," &c. The tenderness of the image
of the lamb, and the digression — " Lo the poor Indian !" &c, are
wonderfully beautiful. The address to happiness in the beginning
of the fourth Epistle, should be read with great attention. In his
Moral Epistles, the character of the Man of Ross is highly pleas
ing, and that of Sir Balaam will make you smile. Do not think
me tedious, my dear Harry, and be assured you will find your
labors well rewarded.
Did you ever read Shakspeare's " Measure for Measure ?" In
the seventh scene of the seventh act are some beautiful thoughts —
" Could great men thunder as Jove himself does," &c, and then —
" Merciful Heaven !" I never read or repeat this without sensibil
ity. In the Merchant of Venice, too, act fourth, scene second, you
will be touched with the beautiful lines :
" The quality of mercy is not strain'd ;
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heav'n
Upon the place beneath. It is twice bless'd,
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.
'Tis mightiest in the mightiest," &o.
I am sure you will get this by heart.

TO HIS SON. London, 22d October, 1783.
My dear Harry:
I am waiting with great impatience for two letters from
you, which your uncles have informed me are on their passage,
but as there is a very favorable opportunity for New-York this
week, I will not delay writing you. By the Edward, Captain Cou-
par, I send some little books for your brother and sister, which

220 THE LIFE OF
you will divide between them as you think most suitable, and I
trust you will make the gift of use to the little ones, by your com
ments and explanations. Boctus doctior fit, docendo — this I have
either read, or heard, or dreamed, no matter which. Upon the
subject of books, I could wish you would make a little catalogue
of such as you would wish to have in your library.
Have you read any part of Mr. Pope's works % I mean to send
you, or take over with me for you, a complete set of all his works,
including his noble translations of Homer, which I hope you have
read, at least in part, before this time. Apropos, I wish you would
read Pope's Temple of Fame, in which you will see the distinguish
ed rank bestowed upon Homer, Virgil, Tully, &c. The design,
conduct, and moral of this beautiful poem, may perhaps want some
explanations ; after which, I am sure you will be delighted with it.
The descriptions of the great and venerable Homer, of the modest
and amiable Virgil, and of the graceful and elegant Tully, I am
sure will be so pleasing that you will get them by heart. When
you have considered the characters of the various candidates for
fame, you will easily conceive, my dearest boy, mwhich class I would
wish to rank you. Read with attention the eight lines beginning
at line 489. The idea of this allegorical poem was taken from the
beginning of the 12th Book of Ovid's Metamorphoses — Orbi locus
medio est, &c. You and your cousin Francis should read these things
together, after first having read them separately by yourselves.
Have you read any of Shakspeare's plays 1 There are many
things in them with which you will not be pleased, but you must
remember that he lived a great while ago, and that many of his
faults are properly owing to the vicious taste of the age he lived
in. Hear what Addison says of him : " Shakspeare was born with
all the seeds of poetry, and may be compared to the stone in Pyrrhus'
ring, which, as Pliny tells us, had the figure of Apollo and the nine
muses in the veins of it, produced by the spontaneous hand of na
ture, without any help of art." Spectator, No 398. Is not this a
beautiful simile, and true as beautiful ? I hope I do not weary you
with my observations. You must consider that in all I do, I have
your happiness and your reputation in view — they are both very
near my heart. I hope you will hereafter say of me what Horace
says of his father (as I once before hinted,) insuevit pater optimus
hoc me, &c.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 221
Your next and future letters I hope will be written in your
closet by yourself, and without being overlooked by any one.
When you sit down to write to me, (for which I am sure your
worthy tutor will give you a holiday,) you must draw off your
thoughts from every thing else, and collect and confine them en
tirely to the subject you are upon. Then ask yourself: " What can
I say that will be acceptable to my papa 1 What account can I give
of myself that will be pleasing to this dearest and best of friends 1
How shall I make him a return for all the anxiety he suffers on
my account, and for all the pains he takes to promote my welfare 1"
If you proceed in this self-examination, you may ask : " Have I any
faulty disposition which would make him unhappy 1 If so, I will
from this moment begin to amend it ; and if another Zopyrus should
tell me of my natural imperfections, I will, like Socrates, convince
him that I can overcome them." Ask yourself also : " What books
have I been reading, and what account can I give of them 1 are
there not some passages that are particularly excellent, and would
afford pleasure to my papa 1"
Do not be afraid of being thought pedantic when you are writing
to me, though I would not have you talk Latin and Greek when
you are with people who do not understand them. When you talk
to your neighbors, who are farmers, you may tell them how hus
bandry was carried on in Virgil's time, but do not quote the
Georgics to them. By the way, do you not often read the first
Eclogue with peculiar sensibility, when you think of the public
troubles? Who will be the happy man of whom it shall besaid,
Beus nobis hcec otia fecit !
Kiss your dear brother and sweet sister for me, and tell them
how much I will love them if they are good. My love to your
grandmamma and all friends. I am, my dearest Harry,
Your truly affectionate father and friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HIS SON.
London, 8th Becember, 1783.
My dear Harry:
I have already filled one sheet of paper, but such is the pleasure
I have in writing to you, that I must trespass on your patience (of

222 » »' THE LIFE OF ^ t
which I hope you have a great fund) still farther. You have
obliged me much by mentioning the bodily exercises and amuse
ments you take most delight in. These, .properly used, will make
you relish yOur studies, while they conduce to your health. Mem
sana in corpore sano, is what I most sincerely wish you. In the ,
spring you shall have a very handsome fowling-piece ; but as to
warlike implements, what can you want with them 1 Remember
it is now peace.
" The shady empire shall retain no trace
Of war or blood, but in the sylvan chase ;
The trumpet sleeps, while cheerful horns are blown,
And arms employed on birds and beasts alone." Windsor Forest,
I will, however, let you have a bayonet for your better defence
or offence, in case you should have to encounter a bear, though I
own I would rather you should decline such a contest.
I have once before told you, that when you convinced me that
you knew the value of time, you should have a watch, and I take
for granted that will be very soon. Never be in a hurry, especially
when you write to me. Your letters will be more or less valuable
to me, in proportion as they are written with pleasure to yourself;
and that pleasure I shall infer, not so much from their length as
their correctness ; for what we take pleasure in, we take pains
about, and, vice versa, what we take no pains about, is fairly
to be considered rather as an unwilling act of duty, than as a free
will offering of the heart. While I was writing this letter, I
received one from your uncle David, which gives me a very pleas
ing account of you, and my heart beats with joy on the occasion.
Go on, my dear boy, in the improvement of your mind, and the
amendment of your temper, and you will make me the happiest of
men. Have you ever read the choice of Hercules 1 — it is in the
Praeceptor. I will try to get time to write Buck a letter, since the young
gentleman is determined to stand upon ceremony with me. Our
sweet little Betsey I will also think of very soon. Do you seeder
often, and what does she say of me ? Tell her how much Hove**
her. If you could get somebody to take the profiles of all three

PETER van schaack. 223
of you, I should be glad to have them. God Almighty bless you
all, my dearest children ! and believe me,
Your most affectionate father,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HIS SON.
London,;, 20th February, 1784.
My dear Harry :
I was made very happy by your most agreeable letter of the
11th Nov. If you receive half the pleasure from my letters, that
yours give me, how punctual and constant ought our correspond
ence to be ! What a pleasing intercourse must that be, in which
the ties of natural affection are strengthened by those of acquired
friendship, where duty and inclination go hand in hand, and where
the heart accompanies the mutual good offices between parent and
child! No one of your letters, my dearest boy, has given me so much
heartfelt pleasure as the one I am now answering ; — not because
it is the most correct, for I will candidly own to you, that it is in
that respect a little faulty — do not let that discourage you ; but I
value it because I have discovered in it some parts of your disposi
tion which give me great satisfaction. The ingenuous frankness
with which you confess some imperfections in your temper, your
so readily declaring the preference in this respect in favor of your
dear brother, your bearing reproof with so much patience, and
taking so much pleasure that any -body speaks well of you, are
such strong marks not only of a good heart, but of a sound under
standing, that I indulge myself in the most sanguine expectations
of your becoming all I could wish you to be. Thus have you in
this letter done what I wished of you, drawn your own character,
though without being conscious of it at the time. Do not be dis
couraged that your temper is not naturally as even as that of
some of your companions : you will have more merit in over
coming your imperfections, than if you had none to contend with —
hie labor, hoc opus. Once more recollect the story of Socrates and
Zopyrus, and make the practical inferences from it.
< I am much pleased with your speaking so tenderly and affec
tionately of our sweet little Betsey, as well as of Buck. You must

224 the life of
continue to love and take care of them, my dear Harry. Con
sider what pleasure it will give me when I see them, to hear them
tell me how good you have been to them. Poor Buck ! I hope the
pain in his breast has not returned. Tell him he must take care
of himself, when the swimming time comes on. I hope you goto
see him often. When you cannot get a good horse, I hope you do
not mind walking it; even your cousin Harry Walton, though of
a delicate constitution, takes much longer walks. I shall send
you a gun to be your companion. Do not overheat yourself, nor
drink cold water when you are heated, and exercise will be of use
to you. Have you ever read of the Peripatetic philosophers?
You must become one of that sect, and think and philosophize as
you walk. I often flatter myself that you make me the subject of
your meditations, when you take your excursions. Believe me
you are seldom out of my thoughts, especially when I see any
thing which I think would give you pleasure. When we meet,-! 'I
will give you a journal of all my travels. When you go out with
your gun, I hope you will use, not abuse it. Never kill poor birds
wantonly. Why should you rob these poor creatures of life unless
it is for some useful purpose, such as food 1 Think of what Shak-
; speare says : " The poor beetle that we Tread upon,
In corporal sufferance feels a pang as great
As when a Giant dies."
What a tender sentiment is conveyed in these lines! They put
me in mind of a stanza in Dr. Goldsmith's little poem :
" No flocks that tread the valleys free,
To slaughter I condemn ;
Taught by that Power that pities me
I learn to pity them.''
Let me recommend a little allegory, in a book I send you, entitled
The Speaker, p. 30, upon pity— there are some inimitable beauties
in it. Jl *
1 shall send you four or five volumes of books, which wiljfibe
of use and amusement to you. Make a present of one set to your *'
companion Francis ; no matter which of them, as you can mu-

peter van schaa ci. 225
tually let each other have the reading of the one, or the other, as you
find yourselves disposed. (
Farewell ! my dear Harry. Present my duty to your grand
mamma and my love to all friends. ' To Buck and Betsey, say a
great many tender things for me.
I amyourtruly affectionate Father and friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
Pray imitate your uncle Silvester in every thing but his man
ner of folding his letters.
, TO HIS SON. ' London, 1th March, 1784.
My dear Harry :
I have already written to you by Capt. Barnwell, who sails
this day. I will add a few liijes by Mr. Bogardus, who embarks
in a few days. He carries for you a gold watch, which I trust will
be an acceptable present. It is fit, for any gentleman's pocket, or I.
would not send it to you ; for that character, my dear boy,T hope
you will always maintain. I hope you have too much sense to
feel any vanity upon this occasion,- or, to give yourself any airs in
consequence of your having any ornament, which your companions
have .nbt. ' ' If I could suppose you so silly, or so cruel, for it is the
height of cruelty to exult over others, because fortune has been
kinder to you than to them, (which ought rather to, excite your
gratitude,) I would never send you any thing else of this kind, and
regret that I had sent this. But,.! trust, my dearest Harry, that
I shall hear no such account of you: Take pleasure but' not pride
in it. Put it to its proper use, but do not make it an instrument of
vanity. Wear it as if you had been accustomed to it, and, with the
same ease that you wear an old coat, or an old pair of shpebuckles.
Do not often look into the inside, and wind it up carefully at a
particular hour, suppose at the meridian hour of twelve.
I promised you last year (and I will never break my promise)
that when you should get an idea of the value of time, I would
send you a time-piece. Your uncle and aunt Silvester give me so
favorable an account of you, — 1, as to the amendment of your tem
per, — 2, as to your readiness to receive and to profit by advice, — 3,
29

226 THE LIFE OF .<>;
as to your being free from any vicious habits — and, 4, as to your/
application to your studies, that I am happy on this occasioMpof
at once fulfilling my promise, and of doing justice to your deserjj$
¦ I could say much to you upon the benefits of making a right use
of time, and the miserable, consequences of neglecting ormisspenjflS
it. Look at your watch and you will see that time is continuflH
going on, and never stands still— tenipus irrevocable fugitfJlS
you do not therefore improve the present moment, it is go^forr
ever, and cannot be recalled. ¦ I dp not by any means wish you to
be always at your books. No, enjoy your juvenile amusemejp"
be cheerful, and indulge the innocent gayety of your disppsitif||at
the proper seasons. Solomon says there is a time for every thing.
But when you are at your studies, when you are employed in
writing to me, then draw , off your attention from play, and give it
entirely to the subject you are upon. Be assured, however' diff^S
cult this may be at first, a little practice will soon make it easyjto
you. Having passed the day in this proper division of your tinje1^
between study and amusement, you will lay your head on the pil
low, with the pleasing reflections of the mens sibi consciq retfp'jii
Your watch will greatly assist you in the distribution of the four :f
and twenty hours, and will enable you to be punctual, without bur- I
rying yourself. I hope you rise early in the morning, which will '
greatly conduce to your health.' The whoje creatiqnthen appears' ;
in its most beautiful form, and seems to offer incense to the great j
Author of all things. When you behold the works of nature-,^
around you, you cannot surely avoid carrying your thoughts to-, -i
wards the Creator. How infinitely powerful that Being who could
call all these things into existence out of nothing, or out of chaos/*.-'^
Your last letter was a very agreeable one, though not very cor
rect. You say you hac^no time to copy it ; but why then did you;
not write it sooner, as you knew your uncle Cruger was coming
away ? You should not wait for an opportunity, but prepare your
letters at perfect leisure. : Resolve to devote a certain time to me,
go into a room by yourself, and there consider what subject you
are to write upon, and if you do not please yourself, blot out and)
alter your letters till they are to your liking. If. in your reading^
you meet with any thing very striking, make a quotation of it. If
* Ovid. Metam. B. I.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 227
you find any thing doubtful or exceptionable, state some questions
upon it, and I wiU answer them. What is your opinion of Brutus
in putting Cjesar to death 1 What do you think of the friendship
of Damon and Pythias 1
In the books I have sent you by Capt. George Barnwell, you
will find many pretty things to amuse and employ your thoughts.
Above all, I could' wish you to read the story of Le Feme, but it is
written in such a singular sort of style, and with so many breaks,
that you will find it a little difficult at first to read it prbperly.
Uncle Toby is an old wounded officer, who had spent his life in
Camps, and whose language upon every subject has a tincture' of
his profession, and Corporal Trim, who had served with him in
the field, accompanied' his worthy master in his retirement, where
they ernployed their time in erecting and demolishing fortifications,
and " fought their battles o'er again." Philanthropy* was the
noble characteristic of both these veterans, and the tale of distress
ever found its way to their sympathetic hearts. Generous pair!
how do we admire them amidst all their little peculiarities. I re
member I accidentally met with this little story when I was about
your age, and it made such an impression 'orf me as has never been
effaced. Read it, my dear boy, and pity poor little Le Fevre. '
You see by the length of this letter' that I never know how to
break off .when I am writing to you. I am almost always think
ing of you, and writing seems to be a substitute for. that conversa
tion which, when we rrieet, will be my delight. Our dear Buck
and sweet Betsey — take care of them and be a guardian to them,
my dear Harry. May God bless you all three, prays your most
affectionate >
Father and friend, P.V.S.
TO HIS SON, ' ' London, 12th June, 1784.
My dear Harry :
I wrote you a few lines soon after the receipt of your agreea
ble favor of the 15th April, and my letter, which I intended should
have , gone by a private ship, was put into the mail of this month,
* <I>M(a and av&Qmnos.

228 THELIFEOF
addressed to Mr. Hoffman's care. Your letter afforded me great
pleasure, not only for its correctness, but for one or, two passageM
in it, which show that you are a gentleman of delicate sentiments
and genuine refinement. Your injunction of secrecy shall be in
violably observed. Whenever you do- me the honor of placing^
confidence in me, you will find that I understand the importance
of the trust. You must continue to treat me with the unreserved
frankness of true friendship, as I certainly shall you. 1 expect to
derive great benefit from your opinions when I see you, as I shall
consult you upon all occasions relative to myself as well as to you,
I would take great, pleasure in sending you books, if I knew
what sort of reading you are most inclined to. In the great vari
ety, it is difficult to make a choice. I am afraid you do not ap
prove of my referring you to so many authors, but remember, I do
not suppose you can read them all at once ; it does not therefore
follow, that my references may not, at one time or another, prove
of some use to you ; besides, I have as yet pointed out select pas
sages only, which it would not take up more than a few minutes
to peruse. Am I too vain in supposing that you do not destroy
my letters 1 I will indulge this idea. It might not be amiss for
you to make short notes, e. g. (Exempli gratia) :
" Select passages of authors recommended by fny father for my
perusal, and which I will refer to, whenever I can procure the
books which contain them, that I may derive that benefit" from
them which his parental love and anxious concern for my welfare
had in view, and which I am confident will be, the best return for
all his care and trouble. H. C. V. S.
Pope— Essay on Man— Epistle I. Exordium — ib. v. 82. v. 99, &c.
Epistle, B. III. v. 147. .
' , , Epistle, B. IV. v. 1.— v. 361.
Temple of Fame, v. 178 to 244, v. 276 to 
Shakspeare — Measure for Measure — act — scene —
Merchant of Venice,
Hamlet — per Mum."
Something of the above sort might be improved into a method that
would be of advantage to you upon other occasions. If you thought
my letters deserved it, J should think it a very high honor done me,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 229
if you had a little MS.* Book, with some such title as this — "Ob
servations of my father, occasionally made in the course of his let
ters to me, upon the following subjects, from which I have already
derived considerable benefit, and which I am determined still far
ther to improve upon by reading, as well as by my own reflections,
viz. Upon Happiness — Philanthropy; — Benevolence— Candor-
Charity— Cheerfulness — Good nature — Affability— Friendship —
Choice of companions— Habit of attention — Presence of mind —
Self-possession." I do assure you, my. dear Harry, it is notmy interition to over-
burthen your mind, or to deprive you of your recreations. Were
I with you, I might divide the subjects I intend for your use in such
a manner as would make them more easy ; but at such a distance
I cannot avoid crowding them together; but as you do not receive
a letter from me everyday, and I hope you do not, think it irksome
to read them more than once, you must take up my observations
separately, and at your leisure. Do not think I shall expect too
much of you : let me only find you a virtuous youth, free from bad
habits, and I will be satisfied. I long, to hear from you after be
ing at Barrington, where I hope little Betsey is settled to your
liking, and in a manner you approve. Your tenderness towards
her and your brother rejoices my heart, and I was delighted, with
your expression — " Fine children, I wish you would write them
each a short letter." These are ybur own words, and charming
words to me they are-^decies repetita placebunt ! Our little Betsey,
my dear Harry, must have a double share of your attention.1 Let
me quote two tender lines applicable to both you and me.
" The name th' indulgent fathert doubly ldv'd,
For in the child the mother's worth improved."
I think I left Goldsmith's Roman History at Kinderhook ; if so,
I hope you have given it a reading. You will also find Stanyan's
Grecian History, which you should look into. These celebrated
republics you should begin to form some acquaintance with. I
shall probably send you Plutarch's Lives, which will make the
great characters of antiquity known to you. Stanyan was given
* Manuscript. t Brother.

230 THE LIFE OF
me at college, as a premium at a public examination ; so was a
set of the Belles-Lettres, which I left for you.
• Have you ever dipped into Homer, and do you know anything- :
;about Achilles, Nestor, Ulysses, Tydides, Ajax, &c, and Priam,1,
Hector, JEneas, &c. 1 Apropos, I wish you would once more read
the first Eclogue of , Virgil, which is so suitable to the times. When
you read the fourth, turn to Pope's Messiah.
I am much concerned about your toothache^ my dearest Harry;
I will send you some powder. At present, I can only recommend
your keeping your teeth perfectly clean by rinsing your mouth
often, especially after your meals. Do not drink any thing hot,
nor rub your teeth too much. A soft brush rubbed up and doilm
between the teeth will answer the purpose. Get a. -little "bark
finely ^powdered, and use that with your brush. Doctor Van Dyck
will tell you, that bark is an excellent antiseptic. Do you kho$||
the history of the discovery of this excellent medicine, the bark?
and do you know who the Jesuits were, whose name it bears l,:%
Heaven preserve you, my boy ! Kiss the little ones for me. -
Yours most affectionately and most tenderly,
P, V. S.
TO HIS SON. .1
London, 25th Nov., 1784.'
My dear Son :
I have read your several letters of the 21st July, 3d September,
and one without date, with sincere pleasure, but great emoSiii.
My dear boy ! how have you touched my feelings by your affecting
description of the parting scene between you and your dear brother >
and sister ! I am now not less proud, than I have always been
fond of you. I perceive that ybu have not only a manly, genius,
but a heart filled with the most amiable sensibility. What you
say about my long absence, my dear Harry, endears you more than,
ever to me. Believe me, it is a heart-breaking affair to me,but'be
assured at the same time, that I will fully satisfy you of the neces-1 ,
sity of it — as such we must submit; but I trust that next Mayjfcs
shall have no obstrutcion to my embarking for my dear native
country. A winter passage, I cannot think of, and my friends
surely would not wish me to undertake it.

PETER VAN- SCHAACK. 231
The manner in which you speak of your Kinderhook friends,
my dear Harry, goes to my heart. God grant I may have it in
my power tp return them the thanks of a warm and grateful heart
for their kindness to ybu. You must often write to them. What
you say of David V. A. makes me love him a thousand times more
than ever. The character you give of him pleases me beyond
expression. My godson has also my tender remembrance. v
I am very much pleased with what you say of Major Goes.
Enmity I bear not against him or any other person whatsoever.
The late civil war was a great national calamity; i and no, one had
a right to expect an exemption from a share of it. I have often
had,my -fears lest you might have taken up prejudices and resent
ments, on account of what you might have thought ill treatment of
me, but I am happy to find that you have too much liberality in
your way of thinking, to' be warped by any partial considerations,
in a case of such great and extensive concern. A civil war implies
in the very idea of it, every enormity which the human heart is
capable of.: Read those in> the Roman history, even in the most
polished times, and you will not wonder at any thing that has hap
pened in your own country. The contest is now, at an end, and to
pour balm into the yet bleeding wounds Jpf our country, should be
the object of every good citizen, of whatever party he may have
been. Pray read No. 125 and, 126, in the second volume of the
Spectator, very attentively.
I hope you will not get into any warm arguments on political
subjects. If you should hear me, or any of your other frierids
censured, evade any altercation by saying it is a delicate subject as
it affects your feelings, and too complicated a one for you to
comprehend it; that you can only answer for the integrity of your
friends, but if they have not ^een blessed with abilities equal to
those who censure them, it was their misfortune, not their fault.
With something like this I would, have you avoid disputes.
By the by, of arguing, there is a paper in one of the volumes
of the Spectator, I think the third, which I would have you read
over and over again. Young gentlemen are fond of \sbowing,their
talents in this way, as well as in raillery, and making a butt of
some one in company. Let me beseech you, my, dearest Harry, to
take care how you attempt to use these edge tools. The limits of

232 THE LIFE OF
a letter will not allow me to be explicit on these subjects by giv
ing you my sentiments, which have arisen from, experience and
observation. When we meet,- you will find I hope that my. absence
has not been altogether useless to you. If my acquirements (such
as they are) can conduce to your benefit, their most. valuable /pur-i
pose will be answered. Meanwhile examine yourself, nosce te
1PSTJM. Acquire a habit of attention, so that you may be able: to
abstract your thoughts from every other subject but that you. are
upon. Endeavor to obtain a preserice of mind, a self-possession^J
which will enable you to attend to what is said in company with
out being confused or embarrassed. Above all, my deafHarry-jp
be Hot discouraged if some of your companions outshine :yoU' in
conversation. Be assured your talents only want to be cultivateofSl
and that depends on yourself. If you have acquired any thing of
the Dutch accent, try to get rid of it. Our country people pro
nounce the letter e like the a. By attending to this you will soon
overcome it. The th is another difficulty with them.
I am glad you have seen Mr. Jay. You must never decline^
any opportunity of being' with him, and when you have been in
his company, recollect at your leisure every thing he has said, and
every expression he has used ; he speaks with more elegance and-
correctness than almost any man I know, and his abilities are won
derful. Call upon him with my compliments, and tell, him I have
received his letters , of the 3d September and 6th October, and that
I shall pay due attention to them ; that I will write to him as soon
as any thing occurs in the business he writes about worthy his,
notice. You will add, that Lam but just returned from Yorkshire^ :
where I have spent three months. '
Apropos, to convince you how much I have your, welfare at
heart, should you ever come to. England, you will come into a
pretty large circle of acquaintances, for to every valuable oonnecnpfii;?
I have made, I have mentioned you, and -that I should put them
in mind of the honor they had conferred on me, by introducing you
to them. I cannot help thinking, my dear Harry, that if you and
I can but be a year or two together, arid you will but cultivate;
your own mind,' you will enter into life with greater advantages
than most young men. Be assured, I shall treat you as a brother
and a friend, nor shall I exercise any other authority over you than

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 233
advice and persuasion. How happy is it in your power to make
me !! Give me some account of the college, your studies, hours of
attention — who is your President ? — a clergyman I suppose. Pre
sent my respectful compliments to him, and pray cultivate his good
opinion by a meritorious deportment.
Present my most respectful regards to your uncle Cruger, and
aunt Mary. Write to Buck and Betsey, and tell them how much
I love them. Let, your aunt Silvester pay my duty to your grand
mamma — in short, my regards to all friends. Heaven preserve
you, my beloved son ! prays, Your affectionate father and friend,
P. V. Schaack.
TO HIS SON. London, 29th January, 1785.
My dear Harry :
Not a line from you by the two last ships, which is a great
mortification to me. Surely you must be acquainted with the time
of sailing of every vessel for England, by means of some one or
another of your friends. As to the pickled oysters which you first
intended for me, and the peppers and nuts for which you changed
that plan — In nova fert animus mutatus dicer e formas
Corpora 
I have not received either the one or the other, nor did you ever
tell me whom you sent them by. From oysters you ascended to
peppers and nuts, and from peppers and nuts, you have descended
to nothing. Here is an example of climax and anti-climax. But,
to be serious, I am very well pleased that you have not sent me
either, as the trouble and expense of getting on shore even these
trifles, is enormous. So make yourself easy ; only write to me and
I shall be contented. But pray write on large paper, and let it be
a single sheet to save postage, for every scrap of paper pays as
much as a large sheet. This is entre nous and pour I'avenir.
February 2d. Your letter of the 20th November, I have just
received. It is correct in the articles both of orthography and
grammar ; but you seem always in a hurry, my dear boy ! Write
30

23 1 THELIFEOF
deliberately ; an hour or two by your watch will answer the pur
pose. Think, I repeat, think of what you are about. Your tender
wishes for my return go to my heart. I still determine to go in
May. Mr. G. W. will explain this matter more fully.
You must wait upon Mr. Mullet and ask him if you can be of
any service to him in delivering, or forwarding any of his letters,
or otherwise. Inquire about your uncle, aunt, and cousins. If
either of the Mr. Watts' are civil to you, take some opportunity of
telling them that you will be happy to merit the good opinion of
gentlemen, for whom your father 'has so great an esteem. How is
your little cousin Eliza 1 You should always inquire about her when
you are at Mr. G. W's. ; also ask about Harry Walton, who write?
to his uncle by Mr. Mullet. Mr. Outhout will probably take notice
of you ; if so, you should inquire of him about Mr. and Mrs. Du-
mont as my most particular and most valuable friends, &c. In
short, you must have a little small chat as well as learned conver
sations. You must make allowances for Mr. Jay from his public character
and wonderful engagements in business. He has not been unmind
ful of me, I assure you. He does more than he professes. He is
not vox et prceterea nihil. Call upon him again and tell him I
have succeeded in the business of his brother, and wish to hear
from him on the subject. I have written by the packet to his
brother Frederic.
Let me beseech you to attend to all these matters. Before you
go out, make a little memorandum of where you are to call, and
the heads of the business you are going upon. Attention in these
matters, my dear Harry, small as they are, will be of wonderful
use to you. May Heaven preserve you and keep you virtuous and
good ! is the prayer of Your affectionate father and friend, P. V. S.
" Exile, according to Plutarch, was a blessing which the muses
bestowed upon their favorites. By this means they enabled them
to complete their most beautiful and noble compositions."
If there be more of poetry than truth in the first branch of the
foregoing extract, the latter part of it at least will be admitted to

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 235
partake less of fancy than of fact. If the ostracism of Thucydides
was the cause of giving his celebrated history to the world in
ancient days, so also it is probable, that to the banishment of Mr.
Van Schaack are we indebted for those rich, instructive and clas
sical letters, which in the two preceding chapters are placed before
the public.

236 THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER XI.
Allusion has been made, in a former part of this work, to the
fact, that during his residence in England, Mr. Van Schaack com
mitted to paper many of his speculations on public affairs. A
chapter composed of extracts from his political diary, will probably
be deemed sufficiently curious and interesting, if not valuable for its
historical features, to merit a place in this work. It is proper to
state, that these notes, which commence in the summer of 1779,
were marked by him as being " crude and undigested," and as
" intended to be methodized."
" With respect to the disposition of the people about politics,
those I have met with divide into the following classes. 1. The
opposition, whether from attachment to the Americans, from party
enmity to ministry, or predilection to those who are endeavoring
to get into power ; these are bent upon one point alone, a change,
be the consequences what they may, and I verily think a revolution
would be more eligible to them, than the greatest success under
the management of this administration. 2. The adherents of gov
ernment, who think themselves bound to support its measures as
such, though they do not strictly approve of their policy. 3. A
set of people, who, though anti-ministerialists, nevertheless think
the times too serious to oppose government, and who would
rather the ship should be saved by the present pilots, than to en- •
danger its loss merely to remove them from the helm. 4. Such
who think the present administration incompetent, but that bad
would be made worse by a change.*
* " Note. 1780. — With respect to America, there are but few who think a
reconciliation practicable ; others who are friends of government think the
war must be persisted in, as no peace ought to be made with France and
Spain in the present comparative state of their navy, although they consider
the American cause hopeless.
" The Patriots are for withdrawing the troops at all events.1'

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 237
" There appears to be a general kind of propensity to change
their governors, if not the government, in almost every part of the
British empire. I cannot except England, much less Ireland, and
there is reason to think it very prevalent in the West Indies.
Perhaps these may have an eye to an easy discharge of their debts
to this country. What originates in personal animosity to a minis
ter or a competition for places, often ripens into a more dangerous
opposition ; and a prince should perhaps sacrifice to the humors of
his people by a moderate fluctuation of his favors, observing a
medium, however, which will avoid the appearance of unsteadiness,
while it does so of the other extreme of partiality and pertinacity.*
" In a comparative view of the merit of the contending parties,
perhaps there will be no great scope for eulogium on the superior
virtue of either. Personal animosity, family pride, party spirit,
and a competition for offices, seem 'to be the spring of action com
mon to both sides. The minority have indeed seen verified many
of their predictions, and had the arguments of the more temperate
part of them been attended to, many evils might have been averted;
but the other side say, those very predictions (urged in the manner
they have been) have been accomplished by means of those who
made them ; that by clogging the wheels of government, they
have prevented efficiency to measures well constructed ; that taking
side with every one who mismanaged, whether in the land or navy
departments, they have afforded protection to delinquents and
taken away the fear and shame of doing wrong.f
" I have no doubt but generally, almost universally, in civil
wars, the fault is originally with the government. The people are
not moved without cause, though they carry the remedy beyond the
injury, and it is true that they often keep up the contest after the
cause subsides, or is removed ; yet their perseverance afterwards is
not always to be deemed culpable. This is one of the evils insepa
rable from commotions once excited, and as such ought to be a
warning to rulers to prevent them. The bulk of the people natu-
* " Aug. 1779. Note.— Since this remark I find Lord Littleton, that excel
lent man, held the same idea.''
t " America certainly relied on the parties at home. Our battles were to
be fought here. Dr. F  told Mr. G  that this nation was so distracted
and divided, that they could not make exertions of the national resources."

238 THE LIFE of
rally acquiesce in the proceedings of government. The motives
in which society originates, and by which its bonds are cemented)
seldom lose their effect. The great duty of government is to con
sult the good of the people, and by making obedience their interest,
they will insure it. Even popular prejudices are to be consulted,
and ought to have their weight. How willingly people submit to
practices or usages calculated for the common benefit, is evident in
large cities. The urbanity in the city of London is extremely re
markable. No coercive laws would obtain so implicit an obedience
as is here voluntarily given to customs calculated for general con
venience. " 'Tis true, the people when roused carry their resentments be
yond the first object, and after the event often make every conces
sion ; but then these concessions appearing to be the effect of fear,
the sincerity of them is doubted. They ought to know this, and if
the evil admits not of remedy, they are culpable for not using pre
ventives. " The doubts entertained of the sincerity of Charles I. were not
peculiar to his case. They naturally arise between parties in all
civil wars.
"Perhaps there never was a more remarkable situation of public
affairs both in Europe and America. Several nations are in open hos
tility without any declaration of war. In neither of these nations
are the measures pursued by its government generally approved.
Vast numbers in each of them espouse the cause of the declared ene
mies of their country* In England the cause of America is openly *
avowed by great numbers, and the hostility of France and Spain
justified. In America, the adherents of the British government are
numerous. It is said that the connection with America, and the
war with G. B., is by no means popular in France, and the Spa
nish declaration is said to be much disliked by the subjects of that
kingdom. Holland is also divided, and there are parties in almost
every European nation upon the subject of American Independence.
From such a strange jumble something must emerge, which will
probably make this a most important era in history. Some nations
* "It would make a strange revolution, if the malcontents of every nation
were banished to the enemies of that nation to whom they adhere ; a wonder
ful mixture of Medes and Persians, &c. &c:" h

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 239
look to the independence of America from motives of commerce,
(the freedom of which so fully assented to by France was therefore
great policy,) others as an asylum to emigrate to from the bur
thens they labor under in their own country.
" The spirit of party at this time is much deeper laid than it
has been in any former period, when it would unite against a com
mon enemy; whereas now it takes sides with them.* This may
be imputed partly to two circumstances : First, the civil war which
has prevailed in part of the empire, and it is well known that
people who take a side in such a contest generally adhere to it in
all its progress ;f for though they cannot commend or justify all
that is done by their particular party, it is however excused as an
act of necessity resulting from the original misconduct of their
opponents. Secondly, I think this bitterness is heightened by the
increased luxury and dissipation of these times, for public rapine
and peculation are become necessary to support those who cannot
refrain from expense, even when their private fortunes are exhaust
ed or impaired.J I have heard it observed that public offices
might be well filled by men out of the middling class, but these
wanting parliamentary interest (the great avenue to preferment)
must remain in obscurity. The constitution tested by its first prin
ciples is perhaps no more. Ministerial people say that no change
can be made but for the worse ; perhaps this may be true, under
the above observation, that the choice is limited only to certain
great men on either side; but in what situation must a country
thus circumstanced be. . You have only a choice of evils ; the
temper of the times, and an artificial system of politics foreign
from the principles of the constitution preclude you from choosing
what is best!
" Upon the whole, nothing but the most unlooked for success
can prevent some violent commotion. For the King is determined
to retain his present Ministers in defiance . of the opposition ; and
the opposition (who are very numerous and powerful) are deter
mined to thwart every measure of this Ministry. The language
* "Lord Abindon's address to Co. of Oxford— July 1779."
t " There were many instances of good men in the wars of Charles I. who
changed sides."
{ " Liberty is inconsistent with the dependence a broken fortune exposes
to. Lord Litt." *

240 • THELIFEOF
of the King is, The present system is my own, and I will support
my servants in carrying it on through all its consequences. That
of the opposition is, We will not only not aid, but counteract every
measure under this Administration, though we know the King will
have no other. We will therefore do what we can to compel
him to a change, or to lose his Crown if he perseveres. This is
riot exaggerated ; and add to the picture the present situation of
the country involved in a complicated war, and it will be truly
dreadful. " It appears to me, too, that the contest is lately advanced one
dangerous step ; the ministry were formerly charged with the mis
chiefs of the public measures, but now the veil begins to be drawn
from the Crown, and the King is said to be the author and pro
moter of the system, even in some instances against the sense
of his servants.
" There is nothing which seems so threatening to the Congress
as their paper money ; and to such a height is the evil grown of
its depreciation that it is said there are projects advanced of totally
annihilating it, and of emitting denovo. Such a measureswith the
enemy in their country, would be one of the most adventurous
proceedings known in history. Some contend that there is no fatal
consequence to, be expected from the depreciation ; it is but, say
they, strikirig a greater sum, and as every thing rises in propor
tion, so the money may still be sunk without any extraordinary
burthen upon the subject ; for every necessary can be purchased
for the same sum in specie as formerly, and if the taxes are nomi
nally higher, the produce rising in proportion, the farmer gives no
more of it than if the value of the paper money was equal to
specie : thus, if the depreciation is as six to one, the farmer when'
he is taxed six pounds in fact pays but one. But there certainly
is a fallacy in this. That government must be weak, which, de
claring their notes to be equal to a certain sum pays them with
one sixth of it. Their faith must be questionable when they can
not perform their engagements. The taxes become in reality hea
vier, though the produce rises in value, for foreign commodities
equally rise.*
* "/They have, however, many succedanea : 1. Personal military services
like feudal times. 2. The persons drafting paying the hired soldier in the way

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 241
" Congressi national debt, including state emissions, but exclu
sive of foreign debt, is' estimated at 130 millions of dollars.
" Loan certificates " ' " 15 millions.

145,
" The expense of campaign 1775 estimated about 5 millions.
<i « « « 1776 " " 16 "
" Do. in 1777, money depreciated at two for one, 45 "
," Do. in 1778, « " " " 80 "
" In 1779, if the real expense no greater than the preceding
one, yet at the depreciation of fifteen for one, the expense computed
at 300 millions of dollars.
" Till government act with more integrity, 'tis not a duty in
subjects to make those sacrifices, which otherwise would be in
cumbent on them.
"See Lord Littleton's pathetic description of the loss of national
spirit, and the profligacy of the great in England, in a poem ad
dressed to Mr. Glover in 1734, Vol. III. p. 193. These are sup
posed to be mere poetic declamation or visionary fears of theorists,
and instances are brought of Jike fears which have proved ground
less ; but the effect, though slow, is certain from such a spirit, and
the evil day will arrive, though we may be premature in our prog
nostications of the exact time. — With Spartan virtue vanished their
importance — so with Rome.
" The American contest certainly is at an end with respect to
the original object of it. This is given up. There seems to be no
idea of bringing her back to submission, and ,the only plan is to
prevent her being an accession to France. Engl arid would readily
renounce all positive benefits from her submission, and yield to the
negative disadvantage of a separation, but she is unwilling she
should be a positive enemy.
" A man sanguine of success of British arms in the country,
will begin to doubt at New- York. In England he will despair.
" 1779, August 14th. In the Morning Post of this day I saw a
resolution of the Assembly of Virginia — 1, that inhabitants of that
he stands most in need of. 3. Barter. 4. The public purchasing, though at an
advanced price, and selling to the troops at a medium proportioned to the
pay of the soldiers." 31

',2*e

242 THE LIFE OF
State who were beyond sea before hostilities at Lexington, and not
having by overt acts adhered to the enemy, were subjects, and en
titled to privileges— 2, that such as were beyond sea after Lex
ington, and before independency and treason act, and had adhered
by overt acts, were to be deemed British subjects and aliens, and
to be treated as aliens — 3, that of such the effects were to be sold,
and the proceeds put in the treasury for the future direction of the
Legislature. " It is but a weak argument, in answer to the prognostication
of the decline of this country from its luxury, its dissipation, and
(as subservient thereto) its rapacity, to say that this is the necessa
ry consequence of its being a wealthy, polished, and an old country.
It is not contended that the people are uncommonly wicked or de
praved, or that other nations in the same situation would not be
equally degenerate ; but if this be human nature under those cir
cumstances, it is only contended that it is human nature so situated
as to be subject to the overthrow, or at least to some violent con
cussion, of the nation. Perhaps no palliatives will be able long to
support it, nor will its splendor be regained but by its previous
dissolution, when the national character will rise like a new phoe
nix out of the ashes of the old. Like the Dutch in another sense,
they must be d  d to be politically saved.
" Its national debt is alarming, and the temporary expedients
and ingenious refinements must become exhausted. Its supplies
now arise from gaming.
" Amusements may be necessary in every state, and in some
more so than in others ; but that must be a vicious necessity which
requires them in the degree they are at present in England.
" The taxes of this country are certainly at a great height, and
the effect of them is felt by every rank, not of inhabitants only, but
of strangers ; for all kinds of commodities and necessaries, as well
as luxuries, are enhanced in their prices. When it is considered
that this load of taxes is confined merely to the payment of the
interest, leaving the enormous principal still in force, 'tis really
alarming. But this debt, in which almost every man in the king
dom is a creditor, has been a great security (and was so originally
intended by King William) against a revolution ; every man is
interested to support a government of which he is a creditor. This
is an artificial prop.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 243
" Bristol, 8,th Oct., 1779. The affairs of Ireland seem to wear
a very threatening aspect. They have entered into agreements
not to import the manufactures of this country. They have twenty
thousand men in arms by voluntary association, not subject to the
control of the Crown. And in late publications they assert the in
dependency of that kingdom on the Parliament of Great Britain.
Sequitur passibus haud iseequis.
I have read a pamphlet of Mr. Sheridan addressed to Sir Wil
liam Blackstone, confuting his doctrines of the omnipotency of Par
liament, by passages from his own Commentaries. See 1 Vol.
Com. pp. 49, 50. He advances several new propositions upon the
subject of government, and upon the whole has formed a very
pretty theory. He denies the position, that upon entering into
society we surrender part of our natural liberty, and distinguishes
between liberty and power. The former consists of three particu
lars : 1, personal security ; 2, personal liberty ; 3, private prop
erty. These he calls natural and inalienable rights, and the en
joyment of them in society he calls civil liberty. The protection
of and a right to defend them is the fourth, which is a power of
which we delegate part to our rulers, the part reserved by the trust
ors constituting their political liberty. He contends that there must,
as necessary to the security of the subject in the enjoyment of their
civil rights, be an identity of interest between the representative
and the remaining part of the community. The consequence ari
sing from this with regard to Ireland, &c, is obvious. He denies
that licentiousness is the extreme of liberty, and asserts that it is an
assumption of power, beyond that portion of it retained by the
people. He insists that liberty, consisting as above in the three
primary natural rights, must never be surrendered by a free people.
Government is only intrusted with the exercise of the fourth, from
which government derives all its powers, which extend only to
protect the society at large in their rights.
" Arms and discipline only could conquer Rome ; but a depri
vation of wealth would subdue England. If America had not
chosen to proceed by violence, she might have emancipated herself
without a blow. The dominion of England over Ireland is Eng
land's profit, not her glory. Remove that profit ; — her dominion
becomes a sound. But how remove that profit 1 Wear your own

244 THE LIFE OF
manufactures. Associate. By that word she may be beaten with
out fighting, and subdued without contest. Thus the ends of war
may be attained by the instruments of peace.
" 1779, Nov., London. America will perhaps never see such
happy days as the past. They may be a great empire, and enjoy
opulence ; but that mediocrity between extreme poverty and luxu
rious riches made their condition substantially happy. There being
but few offices, there was no scope for bribery, corruption, and the
numerous train of evils which attend the venality in this country.
Henceforth, having an empire of their own, the numerous train of
offices will produce like effects as the same causes do here.
" The patriots in this country openly espouse the cause of
France and Spain ; but it is on account of their interposition in
favor of America. Is there not some inconsistency in their conduct,
and was it not the same principle which led them to want this
government to assist Corsica 1
"Whether the contest is at an end or not, is a question of fact,
the affirmative of which is not to be assumed upon slight grounds,
nor is the mind to be influenced by sinister motives of interest in
regard to temporary ease, nor because government cannot protect
every part of its dominions.
" But, on the other hand, neither is the negative to be taken up
when the mind, upon an impartial inquiry, is fully satisfied ; when
a series of events and of attempts for years have only increased the
probability of want of success, and the difficulty of the object;
when in various instances government has confessed this ; when
the object of the war is changed ; when to persevere is infatuation;
when the view is only to weaken our country without hopes of re
gaining it ; when the arguments for allegiance now will equally
operate fifty years hence. Duty to myself, to my posterity, to my
native country, then, call on me, and my connection with the pa
rent country is dissolved.
" I am to consider the happiness of that country, not the ag
grandizement of this. Perpetuation of animosities — Devastation-
End of the war ; the only means, &c.
" It is supposed that the aversion of the Americans to the re
ligion, government, and manners of the French, will make them
unwilling to admit French troops among them. My opinion has

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 245
been uniformly given against this idea. The great object of
America is independence. Her hatred, her religious hatred, is
against Great Britain. This is her ruling passion, which swallows
up all others as of inferior consideration. Whatever the motive of
France was, the action was materially good in the eye of the
Americans. The external profession of one religion or another,
could not stand in competition with benefits and injuries, and these
depend upon opinion. The wounds of a friend strike deeper than
those of an enemy. It must be a work of time to recall her affec
tions* " Dec. 1779. The instance of the restoration, is often adduced
by those who expect the Americans will return to their allegiance.
1. This is a singular case, a prodigy in history, from which no gen
eral conclusion can be drawn, or any rational hope grounded that
it will be so in another. 2. The genius of the English led them to
a preference of monarchy, whereas the Americans (especially
New England) are disposed to a republic. 3. The government in
England had been fluctuating between a variety of forms till it set
tled in the Protector, whose powers, in fact, were those of a king
without the name. The American constitutions are fixed, and to
tally different from their colony dependence. The transition at
the restoration was easy ; that of the Americans would be from one
extreme to another. 4. The English effected the restoration with
out any sacrifice of national dignity. The Americans would have
to sacrifice all the pride of empire, which every whig there now
feels as sensibly as a monarch his power. 5. Those who opposed
royalty in England were the most contemptible of the community.
" In one case prejudice in favor of an old form — in the other
never any settled constitution.

* " If ever the Americans should come back to a coalition with this coun
try, it must be after the cessation of hostilities, at present their passions are
too muck awake.
" When mutual aggressions have been so far carried on as to occasion an
appeal to the sword, that alone must decide it. A mutual suspicion of the
sincerity of either actuates both parties. This is confirmed by all history.
It was folly, therefore, to expect the Americans would lay down their arms
upon oflers made. The crime, if any, was in taking up arms. The rest was
but a consequence."

246 THE LIFE OF
" The principal ground of hope now, is the depreciation of the
American paper currency. Money, say the ministerial people, is
the sinew of war, and the longest purse must prevail. But, 1.
They have the necessaries of life, and if they have not the riches,
neither have they the luxuries of England. 2. They have their
supplies of military stores upon credit from abroad. 3. The depre
ciation is owing to the abundance, more than to the want of public
credit. 4. When they find the matter threatening ruin, they will
enter into associations to support its credit. 5. The end of the war
will give them resources to pay off the debt — crown lands, forfeited
lands, trade. They have hope continually spurring them on. They
have a great object in view.
" National inconveniences are great and small by comparison.
Has not England a great national debt 1 Have not they a  of
paper currency 1 Have they not enormous taxes 1
" The Americans cannot be more distressed than they have been
for two or three years after hostilities commenced. Their troops
were naked, barefooted, and had very little salt provisions. They
have never been accustomed to the luxuries of Englishmen. Their
legislators and generals have lived in the simplicity of a Numa
and a Cincinnatus.
" December, 1779. It is now common among the patriots to
ascribe to the King the whole system of the public measures, espe
cially the continuance of the American war. This is called the
royal hobby-horse. Obstinacy is said to be his characteristic. But
there are facts which seem to militate the other way. Were not
his counsels in a continued state of fluctuation in the first part of
his reign, insomuch that the ministry in 1766 was the sixth of his
reign ? Did not opposition decline a coalition and refuse to come
in unless upon a total admission of themselves, Ch — , Y — ket
Has not the King pursued the plans of his ministry through all the
changes they have advised respecting American politics (ut nee
pes, nee caput uni reddatur formce) ? Has he not stooped to those
he was supposed to be most inveterate against? Has he not
agreed to commissionate the leaders in America ; to confirm their
paper currency ; to give up his quit-rents, &c. 1 Are not these
proofs rather of his attachment to his ministers, than of personal
resentment against the Americans 1

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 247
" Lord B. and Lord M. are said to guide all the public councils
— Lord Stormont — Lord Mountsheart.
" Should America be forced into submission, how must she be
retained 1 Either by a treaty giving her the terms offered by the
commissioners, or something tantamount, or by the sword.
" What hopes are there of success ? What system has been
adopted 1 What losses may be sustained without relinquishing the
contest ? On the other hand, is it merely a war of revenge ? Is
it merely to distress that country ? Is the only hope founded on a
series of favorable contingencies to this ?
" Can any American wish a continuance of the war, if there
is not some rational hope of success ? Can he wish his own coun
try laid waste by fire and sword, if even there was some prospect
of its bringing on a submission in the end? Can he wish to see
a submission enforced by war, pestilence or famine ? Could such
a submission be durable ?
" It behooves every American seriously to weigh these matters.
The question is not whether if such and such things were to be
done, and if such and such events happen ; but whether from the
result of former experience, and from present appearances, it is not
morally impossible that there should be a reconciliation, and then
whether the effusion of blood, and the horrors of war should not
cease. " Dec. 28th, 1779. The affair of Georgia has given new life
and spirits to the friends of administration. The very persons who
but a week ago gave all over in America as lost, or at least
totally despaired of the conquest of the country, seem now to be
sanguine of that event. It is certainly an important affair ; it saves
not only the army in Georgia, but the troops in the other parts
of the continent, at least from imminent danger, if not from impend
ing destruction. But does it facilitate the object of conquest?
Is it more than leaving a distant prospect of that which D'Estaing's
success would have rendered hopeless? Is it more than for the1
present cutting off from the Americans the actual aid of France ;
but does it not still leave the whole power of the continent opposed
to the British arms ? Sanguine hopes are indeed entertained of
benefits to England from the dissensions between America and the
French ; but are these any thing more than what are common upon

248 THE LIFE OF
want of success between other allies ? And is it not overrating
the thing, to suppose that the mere disputes between the different
corps in a campaign, will become a national object ?
" The events of war are indeed precarious and fluctuating. A
people from the lowest ebb of distress are often saved, and raised
to success and splendor. But the object of England is the conquest
of an extensive continent, the reclaiming a people whose affections
are alienated, reducing those to the situation of subjects who are
now filled with the ideas, and with the pride of empire. This,;in
my opinion, is the great discouraging circumstance attending this
contest, which distinguishes this war from that between foreign
powers. " My sentiments on the nature and consequences of civil wars,
opposed to those who contend against the equality of rights of the
party in resistance and the government resisted, and asserting that
the same rules of war ought to prevail between them as in foreign
wars between independent states, I find confirmed- by Vattel, Vol.
II. p. 109, &c.
" The best interpretation of the law of nature and nations is the
general benefits of society, and that is likely to be the truest con
struction, which exposes men to the least inconvenience. Truth
and utility coincide. What is the end of laws obligatory on men
but the advancement of their happiness ? Ought not the means to
be adapted to the end, and is not the conclusion irresistible that
those means are agreeable to the will of the Creator, whose good
ness in human affairs is directed to this end ?
"The difficulties of the application, in cases involved in a mul
tiplicity of combinations and a variety of relative circumstances,
does not disprove the certainty of the rule.
' If white and black blend, soften, and unite,
A thousand ways, is there no black and white ?'
Essay on Man, E. p. 2, 210.
"Jan.- 18th, 1780. Upon reading Mr. G— 's pamphlet entitled
Cool Thoughts, &c, will not one conclude that Opposition and Min
istry had changed weapons, or at least that the latter had now
when it is too late become proselytes to the doctrines of the minor
ity 1 He shows the astonishing benefits to this country from the

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 249
American Colonies, to her trade, to her navy, to her manufactures,
and in consequence to her agriculture, to her population, &c. And he
shows the very trifling expense the Colonies have been to the Mo
ther country. Why then was a contest set on foot for a paltry
object, that would be attended with consequences of such magni
tude? What becomes of the argument for a ratable contribution
from the Colonies, founded upon the expenditure of settling and pro
tecting those colonies ? Does not this pamphlet favor my idea, that
the war is now merely British, and the aggrandizement of G. B.
the sole object ? All the facts stated, and most of the inferences
would have afforded matter for an excellent speech in Congress, in
1774 and 1775, or for a member of the British Parliament in the
opposition, on very many occasions, and several debates carried on
there; perhaps the gentleman got his materials at Carpenters' Hall.
" It proves that to support Ministry now, it must be done upon
the very principles which they reprobated formerly, that Parlia
ment must now assent to propositions which they before rejected as
false. That those they avowed as true, and as the ground of the jus
tice of beginning the contest, really had no existence, or were ut
terly false. That the reasons urged by opposition for preventing
the war, which were rejected, must now be taken up to carry it on.
It blows hot and cold, and is a two-edged sword which cuts both
ways. " Writers, to establish a favorite position, often overshoot the
mark. But if the facts they adduce to a particular purpose are
liable to inferences of a different kind from what they wish, the
fault is with themselves ; but it is not their prerogative to appro
priate their subject so as to exclude others from it. To guard a
limb, they often leave the vitals exposed (and sometimes furnish
the very weapons) to a deadly wound.
" April, 1780. The characters of men are mixed ; none
are perfectly good, and very few totally depraved. Candor,
therefore, should lead us to place their good qualities in one scale
while the bad are put in the other. Actions right and wrong in
themselves, are not always such, as they respect the agent's motives.
I know of no other rule to determine the morality of an action than
a man's acting according to the dictates of his own judgment,
having first used proper means to inform himself upon the subject.
32

250 THE LIFE OF
" There is certainly as fair a foundation for a civil war lajd
in the principles of the parties now subsisting in this country, as
ever existed anywhere, or at any time.* The patriots are deter
mined to oppose the present administration, as persons inadequate
to their offices, and the King having by the constitution the prero
gative of nominating his ministers, is determined to have no others,
" In party times, a man who takes either side with warmth will
always have panegyrists and censurers. If his moral character be
bad, his enemies will dwell upon that, and ask what good princi
ple can be expected from such a man. His friends, on the con
trary, will overlook his moral failings, for the sake of his upright
politics. If his moral character be good, his friends will deduce
much in favor of his politics from that circumstance, while his
enemies will deplore that a man otherwise unexceptionable should
be so strangely deluded !
" May 8th. It is strange to observe with what warmth partisans
will argue about events at a distance which they cannot influence,
and which at the time are decided. We may reason upon facts
which we know, and infer the probability of future events from
them, but we only expose ourselves by warmth and confidence
about them. Some people proved clearly a fortnight ago, that Sir
Henry Clinton's whole fleet was dispersed, most of the troops lost,
and the whole expedition thwarted, and would fly into a passion
with any man who would not believe them. Others were equally
confident (and equally impatient of contradiction) that he was in
possession of Charleston before he had landed, as it now appears.
Each party being dislodged from these grounds, immediately take
up .others, and show the same confidence.
" There is nothing so absurd which people having the same
wishes, and the same interests, and associating together, and with
no persons of contrary sentiments, may not persuade themselves to
think, believe, or to do.
" Many suffer their judgments to fluctuate respecting the issue
x
* " May 25th. The opposition, however, is and has for some time past,
grown much weaker than it was at the beginning of the sessions, and through
out the winter.
" July 11th. The opposition is now totally overset, and ministry firmer
than they have yet been."

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 251
of this war,, by the vicissitudes and events of the day. They will
be very -incompetent judges of the weight of successful or unsuc
cessful events, who, instead of taking up the contest upon a large
scale, exhibiting all the relations and connections, only view a
part of it. There are certain leading characters which are pecu
liar to this contest, and distinguish it from the wars which have
happened in Europe for a century past. At present, the one side
place the whole event of the American war upon the single issue
of the success at Charleston ; the representations of the internal
state of the Americans being such as to threaten their sudden de
struction. The points insisted upon are : 1. The depreciation of
their paper money. 2. The want of necessaries in general. 3.
The want of provisions. 4. That the people are tired of the war,
and desirous of a reconciliation. 5. That they hate the French,
and are sick of the alliance ; are averse to their manners, so differ
ent from their own, and feel themselves disappointed in not having
the assistance they expected from them. And that all this is ap
parent because they cannot raise troops but by compulsion. It is -
added that they are disgusted with the French and Spaniards for
not lending them money ; Spain having advanced them but five
hundred thousand dollars instead of five millions, as they promised.
It is also said that Mr. Adams and Doctor Franklin are using all
their exertions to prevailon the French Court to send out supplies,
who on the contrary are waiting the event of the siege of Charles
ton, and detain their fleet on that account, knowing that they
are now too late to relieve the place. An instance was mentioned
by General Conway of a Frenchman who had been employed to
sound the Americans, (Mr. Pontas, sent by the Count St. Germans,)
and reported the enmity of the Americans to that nation — Credat
Judceus Appella.
" That the affairs of America are at a crisis, and the balance
stands nearly even between war and peace. It was said by Mr. \
G — , that in Pennsylvania, nine twelfths, nay, nine tenths of the
people are for a restoration of the old government ! ! Associations
of thousands in P.
" On the other hand, the patriots answer the arguments drawn
from the above considerations by a flat denial of the facts in most
instances, and in others of the inferences deduced from them. For

252 THE LIFE OF
my own part, I do Ihink the resistance at this moment stronger
than it was at any former period ; by which I do not mean that
they have more troops, more money, more credit, but that, all
things considered, the resistance is more difficult to be overcome.
" By late advices from Ireland, the people there seem to be in
a more violent ferment than ever. The repeal or alteration of
Poyning's law is insisted upon ; in short, the American principle
of independence on the British Parliament, is the object. 'Tis
dangerous to say any thing to the prejudice of the Americans,
there. On the other hand, the violence of the storm in this country
seems to abate. The popular proceedings grow more languid.
The inferior agents begin to suspect the designs of the leaders.
The great grow afraid of their property. Burke avows the princi
ple of septennial Parliaments. Sir George Saville reprobates
independency. +
"June 2d. A petition from the Protestant Association against
the act for removing certain disabilities under which the Roman
Catholics were placed by former laws, was presented to the House
of Commons, by a vast concourse of people, 'tis said not less than
forty thousand men. The transactions from that time till the 8th,
consisting of the most violent outrages, the destruction of the
Romish chapels of ambassadors, &c, of private houses, of the
public jails, Newgate, the Fleet, King's Bench, &c— for these vide
the papers.
'* | June 9th. The riots were quelled by means of the exertion
of military force, many lives having been lost. N. B. some of the
warmest Patriots distinguished themselves in the suppression of the
mobs. Lord George Gordon was apprehended and committed to
the Tower.
" June 15th, arrived Lord Lincoln with intelligence of the sur
render of Charleston.
"July 6th, arrived Major Bruce with despatches from Sir
Henry Clinton of a very important nature, respecting the disposition
of the people in the colony of South Carolina.
" July 11th, 1780. The late transactions at home, and the im
portant advices from America have given a very different face to
affairs. Ministry are more determined, opposition deranged, and
in consequence Government has a greater degree of energy than it

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 253
has possessed during the war. What was before assertion respect
ing the weakness of the Congressional power, their dissensions,
and the effect of the paper currency, seems now to have a consider
able weight of evidence from the events at Charleston, &c*
South Carolina is at present dismembered from the confederacy.
De Turney's operations are now a subject of the most anxious ex
pectation. Should he be defeated !
"The intelligence from America is important, in the three
following points of view. 1. The actual loss to the Americans in
the articles of troops, military stores, magazines, and a material
sea-port town, and in consequence its trade. 2. The actual acqui
sition of these important articles to the British troops, the numbers
of men they will have in arms to defend the Province, &c. 3. The
evidence afforded by these transactions of the comparative weak
ness of the colonies, and the presumption of future events favorable
to this country.
" Nothing could be more discouraging to the American loyal
ists than was the situation of affairs for two years past. Every
intelligence they gave was disregarded. Ministry was languid,
and suffered without contradiction the most positive assertions of
opposition to pass for truth, of the actual dismemberment of the
Colonies from the Crown. The officers arriving from America
holding that country up as united, and invincible. The delinquents
not called to account, and that impunity arguing a consciousness
of their innocence, and of the ministers' guilt, or neglect. — Nothing
done in America indicating a hope of conquest, but all upon the
defensive — the troops cooped up. No system of civil police, to call
forth their own friends, or conciliate their enemies — American
corps drafted into British regiments 
" It is curious to remark the progress of the American contest.
First, nothing short of unconditional submission would be accepted.
Then a resolution of the House of Commons was passed, offering a
conditional suspension of the taxing power. Then General Gage
issued a proclamation excluding from pardon two persons by name.
Then comes out an act of Parliament promising a revisal of the
obnoxious act, and a proclamation of indiscriminate pardon. Then
an act of Parliament repealing the offensive acts, and renouncing
* E> Rutlidge — Lincoln.

254 THE LIFE OF
the claim of taxation, as well as every claim which involved any
idea of subordination. The business of coercion was again re
sumed. After some feeble efforts, the coercing army are obliged
to act on the defensive, and they are anxious for the safety of those
who were to be the conquerors. Thus as fast as one prop is taken
away, another is laid hold of; and, notwithstanding a total change
of circumstances, people think they must, to avoid the imputation
of inconsistency, retain the same opinion. . " Hope travels through,
nor quits us when we die."
" Sept. 29th, 1780. A notion again prevails that the troops
will be withdrawn from America, and this is held by persons, who,
a few weeks ago, from some successful events thought conquest in
sured. Strange event-judging world ! What occasions this change?
The landing of the French troops, and the reinforcements to Gen
eral Washington's army. But surely it could not be doubted that
the French would send troops, and it was known for several
months past that they had done it ; and that this would give energy
to Congress, and spirits to the people was beyond doubt. The
abandoning America now, is the wildest chimaera that ever en
tered into the head of a politician. Suppose even that conquest is
impracticable, (as I verily believe it is,) what would be gained by
this measure ? Will it break the confederacy, and detach America
from France ? By no means. Will it increase our comparative
strength in the West Indies ? No : for the French force now on
the continent will be sent thither, strengthened by reinforcements
from the American army. America, left to herself, will sooner re
cover from the wounds she has sustained in the course of the war,
and will be enabled, besides prosecuting her agriculture and man
ufactures, to carry on the business of ship-building, and fitting out
private ships of war. The fate of Canada, where the British power
already shakes to its centre, will be accelerated, and the danger
ous situation of the Islands greatly increased. Great Britain must
have some ports upon the continent, or she must sign a carte blanche.
In short, in this choice of difficulties, the least pernicious system
will probably be deemed to be the continuance of the war in its
present confused, jumbled state, as the situation of this country
seems now to be precisely that wherein Cardinal De Retz says it
is even prudent to consult only le chapitre des accidens.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 255
" Oct. 12th, 1780. It seems to be received as a fact, that the
resolution Lord Cornwallis expressed in his letter of 21st Au
gust, of inflicting exemplary punishment on some of the prisoners,
has been actually carried into execution. Probably the descrip
tions in his preceding letters may point out who they are. 1. Lieut.
Col. Lisle, who had been paroled to the islands and had afterwards
exchanged his parole for a certificate of his being a good subject,
returned to the country, and carried off a whole battalion to join
General Sumpter. 2. Col. Mills' Militia, who carried off their offi
cers to General Gates in North Carolina. N. B. These militia the
Col. formed contrary to his lordship's instructions, trusting more to
oaths and professions, and attending less to the former conduct of
those he admitted.
" Whether the Congress will think proper to make any retalia
tions, is uncertain ; but it is proper to remark, that Earl Corn
wallis has not inflicted punishments upon any for treason previous
to the taking of Charleston, and simply on account of their hav
ing engaged in the resistance ; and that it is the violation of new
engagements, voluntarily entered into, and broken through without
compulsion from the American army, which he has punished.
The Congress have inflicted capital punishments for aiding and
abetting the King's troops, upon such as had never recognized the
American States, or sworn allegiance to them ; who, on the con
trary, had avowed their subjection to the British Crown, and had
been restrained from joining his Majesty's troops. Some were
tried by a Court Martial, in 1777, for aiding the enemies of the
States. In 1778, seven (out often who were convicted) were ex
ecuted at Albany, for assisting General Burgoyne's parties with
horses, &c, on his march to Saratoga. In 1779, two persons
were hanged at Philadelphia, for aiding General Howe, while the
King's troops were in the actual possession of that part of the
country wherein the assistance was given.
" But it is not improbable that the Congress will deny the in
ference Lord Cornwallis would deduce from these facts, and insist
that the American States being declared free and independent, the
temporary possession of any part of- them by the British troops
must be considered as a mere invasion of a foreign enemy. How
ever, may it not be said that even upon that principle the law of

256 THE LIFE OF
arms will justify his lordship ; for having . conquered a certain dis
trict, and put it to the inhabitants to make their option of the pre
dicament they chose to stand in for the future, and they having
voluntarily sworn allegiance, and voluntarily renounced the pro
tection afforded them ; that thus becoming subjects de novo, they
were proper objects of punishment ?
" It is a matter of no small curiosity to observe the mutual al
tercations of parties in England. The Ministerialists are continu
ally pointing out instances of patriots, who, when in administra-f»
tion, acted the part they now do ; and the patriots retort the
charge. These are perhaps the only instances wherein both par
ties have truth on their side,"

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 257

CHAPTER XII.
We have seen that Mr. Van Schaack's sentiments in regard to
the American Revolution were peculiar. Although he decidedly
condemned the conduct of the Home government, he was yet
opposed to taking up arms in oppositiori to it. His precise views
on this subject are best gathered from his own writings, which have
already been spread before the reader. These present those nice
and discriminating views and distinctions, those tints and shades of
opinion, which are very necessary to be regarded, and even studied,
to do justice to his sentiments. With his views and mode of rea
soning, he probably could not take up arms against the Colonies^
because he condemned those measures of government which con
stituted the grievances complained of; and considering Britain as
so far in the wrong, he was not disposed to interpose obstructions to
those measures which his countrymen saw fit to adopt, in the exer
cise of that right of private judgment which in his own case he held
to be sacred and inviolable. He could not favor the warlike atti
tude assumed by the Colonies, because he considered their welfare to
be identified with a continued union with Britain, and that success
to the American arms, by dissolving that connection, would but
increase their embarrassments, and terminate in anarchy and ruin.
Another and, a prominent reason was, that he did not believe
that the obnoxious measures originated in " a design to enslave."
He gave ministers credit for integrity of purpose. Charity formed
a prominent trait in the character of Peter Van Schaack. In can
vassing the actions of individuals, he always sought for a good
motive ; and that same principle which led him on all occasions
to place the most favorable construction on the conduct and mo
tives of individuals,, he applied to rulers. Entertaining such opin
ions, he could not reconcile it with his views of duty to involve the
country in a civil war, of which he entertained the deepest horror.
.' 33

258 The life of #
In accordance with these opinions, (and it shows the consistency
of his conduct with his declared sentiments,) he assumed, at the
commencement of hostilities, the stand of neutrality, which' he
conscientiously and inviolably maintained. It is believed that no
enlarged mind can doubt the sincerity of his conduct ; nor is it
strange, that such a man should have retained the confidence and
friendship of the most eminent whigs of the Revolution.
The situation of Mr. Van Schaack, at the capital of the British
empire, gave him an admirable opportunity for ascertaining how far
ministers were entitled to that credit for honesty of intention, in
their measures against the American Colonies, which he had so
charitably accorded to them. It was here, after a residence of
more than a year, that his opinions on this subject underwent a
change ; — a circumstance which imparts to that change no small
degree of interest.
The following papers were found among Mr. Van Schaack's
manuscripts. That which will be first given, indicates a mind
undergoing a change of sentiment by deliberate reasoning.
" January, 1780.
" I have always considered in a high light the duty individuals
owe to the government they voluntarily live under, and which they
are protected by. A temporary suspension of this protection,
owing to an unhappy combination of circumstances, (the desire of
affording this protection being evidenced by endeavors to accom
plish it, founded on a rational hope of success,) does not in my
opinion cancel the obligation. Private inconveniences, as such,
cannot cancel it.
" I have considered the rights and obligations of sovereign and
subject as reciprocal, as founded in a civil compact and involving
mutual conditions, which, like other civil compacts, is religiously
to be observed while it continues, but which, being conditional and
mutual, is liable to dissolution. The dissolution, of such a com
pact, is an inference to be deduced from a variety of circumstances,
always perplexed and intricate.
" Whether a government in a civil war, proceeding in a hope
less cause, has still a right to the obedience of such as think it
originally was right, is a great question. The hopelessness of such

v:

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 259
a cause can be only matter of opinion ; but that opinion, being free
and unbiassed, and deliberately weighed, is the best guide a man
can have.
" A man forming his idea of the rectitude of a government from
what he knows at the time, may change it in consequence of facts
coming afterwards to his knowledge, without impeachment of his
firmness, or the rectitude of his principles, for what can we reason
but from what we know ? A firm man is he who adheres to prin
ciples, however great their difference in the application. A man
adhering to a party right or wrong, is an obstinate, not a firm man.
" A man, an American, may have taken side with Great Bri
tain upon these two grounds : 1. Because the proper remedies were
not pursued by Congress (whatever he might think of rights). 2.
Because he thought a reunion (then practicable in his opinion)
would be productive of the real happiness of that country.
" A man may, upon a full information of the proceedings of
both sides, think it a matter in point of right, and from the errors
on both sides, indifferent which side he joins. For instance, is it
not equally the duty of both sides to prevent a civil war ? Is not the
adopting measures obviously leading to it, as much incumbent on
the government as on the people ? Is not the neglect of the ob
vious means to prevent it, equally culpable on both sides ? and
supposing a man is thoroughly convinced of this, may he not inno
cently take either side ? and duty, to government out of the ques
tion, is he not right in regarding his interest, especially when that
coincides with what he owes to his own country ?
" A man is to have due regard to the interest of himself and
his family, but should take care not to let it bias him from his duty,
which to his country, as in every other instance, must prevail over
interest. But the question then will be, What, under all the cir
cumstances of the case at this time, is his duty ?
"In the American dispute, those siding with Great Britain
meant to promote the interest of that country, by attaching them
selves to this, and thought they were pursuing and aiding the
means to accomplish this. The aggrandizement of Great Britain
could be but a secondary motive, inseparably connected with the
welfare of America.
" If it should appear to such, the actual situation of things con-

260 THE LITE OF
sidered, that a reunion cannot take place; that the connection is
irretrievably broken ; that the continuance of the war is perpetuat
ing the misery of his own country without promoting the just views
of this country ; that the greatest happiness of America is to put
a period to the war, — what part ought such a man, an American,
having his whole property, all his dependence, and the tenderest
connections in that country, to take ?
" I do not think an American bound to promote the views of
Great Britain, when they are directed only to weaken, to cripple
America, and not to recover her ; or when that recovery is only
hoped for, from the ruin and destruction, by conflagration, pesti
lence and famine, of America.
" I always presuppose, that the man thus situated holds him
self bound by the natural and revealed laws of God, (those revealed
laws, however, so understood as to make the social compact be
tween sovereign and subject only a civil compact, capable of dis
solution,) and that he has taken due pains to acquire information
before he passes a definitive sentence to direct his own mind.
" My conduct (the consistency of which, however insignificant
to others, is to me of the utmost importance) shall be the result of
a serious regard to the above principles, and such others as may be
dependent on, or connected with them. In weighing the truth of
them, I expect a candid interpretation, and that my obvious mean
ing will not be rejected on account of any inaccuracies of language.
My conduct I hope will be judged of only by such as will think
with candor, who, before they pass sentence, can place themselves
in my situation, and who will put such a construction upon my ac
tions as they would think just to be put on their own, were our sit
uations reversed."
This paper, with his usual characteristic pertinence, is endorsed,
"Less a friend to doctrine than to truth. — Prior." — "Terras astra
reliquit." — In that which follows, will be seen the conclusions at
which his mind arrived.
" When* in the course of our conversation you heard my politi-
* There is no date upon this paper. It was probably written in the early
part of 1780.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 261
cal principles upon general questions of government, which you
said were strictly agreeable to those of Mr. Locke, and other dis
tinguished advocates for the rights of mankind, you seemed to
intimate, that the part I had taken in the American contest was
incompatible with those principles. I told you I thought I could
convince you to the contrary, but rather than do injustice to myself,
(not having leisure to enumerate all the arguments,) I chose for
the present to labor under the imputation of having drawn a con
clusion at variance with my premises.
" It is not uncommon for men of equal understanding, acknow
ledging the same rule of right, and upon the same established
facts, under certain circumstances to apply that rule to a particu
lar case, not only differently, but in direct opposition to each other.
If this be the case where facts are not contested, how much more
scope is there for a contrariety of opinion when the facts them
selves are doubtful ; where there are a variety of circumstances
equivocal and clashing with each other, and when we are to decide
upon facts at a distance through the medium of contradictory
proofs. If, in balancing those proofs, different men draw different
inferences and give different verdicts, they cannot but apply the
rule of right differently. The right of resistance is not more clear
in the abstract, than the right of adhering to government. The
one or the other becomes our duty, according to the circumstances
of each particular case.
" I was bred up in a passionate fondness for the British
Constitution. What might have been the effect of partiality in
English writers, I found confirmed by the suffrage of foreigners.
The idea of independency seemed to me to involve that of being
deprived of that constitution, and I held the connection therefore as
essential to the preservation of that constitution, which alone could
diffuse the happiness I expected from society. From all the proofs
I had, I could not, on a fair estimate, think them sufficient to estab
lish the fact of an intention to destroy the liberties of the Colonies.
I saw irregularities, but I thought time would work out our deliver
ance, and it appeared to me that, balancing conveniences and in
conveniences, we were, upon the whole, a happy people.
" The idea of a civil war appeared to me to involve the great
est of human calamities, and I thought policy should make that in

262 THE LIFE OF
us the last resort. It would let in a torrent of vices, with which
we were unacquainted. I thought there was no danger from prece
dents, because, in the natural progress of affairs, we should prevent
their growing into prescription ; besides the public disavowal of
the principle, which would destroy the implication from a short sub
mission, we had one means, that of a non-importation, which
would always be effectual. It appeared to me that it was not
prudent to go into the measures we did, merely in opposition to
a speculative question. In short, it appeared to me that all was
not done which might have been done, to avert the horrors of a
civil war, and that no back door was left to the B. P. ;* and I held
it, thai, till my mind was thoroughly convinced, I must remain inac
tive. He that appeals to the Almighty must be sure he has right
on his side.
" That I had some difficulties in my mind, however, I will
frankly own ; but what confirmed me the more, was the irregulari
ties I saw committed by the people in power on the other side, de
structive as I thought of the principles they were contending for,
and stretching beyond the bounds of that necessity which must cir
cumscribe all human power. I feared that we were in the state of
Rome after the death of Ceesar, and that we had only the choice
of masters. In this situation, without complaining of hardships I
underwent, I met with domestic calamities, and found the effects
of a fatal disorder in one of the tenderest organs of the human
body, which required me to take the ablest opinions, and perhaps
to undergo a dangerous operation.
" Upon my arrival in England, I have attentively endeavored
to procure the best lights I could, respecting the American contro
versy, and particularly relative to the designs of government here,
with respect to the article of taxation and raising a revenue from
America ; the sincerity of their avowed disposition to peace, to
redress the American grievances, and to remove the causes of their
uneasiness ; and how far they had really acted with that integrity
for which I gave them credit — and how far they had, on their
parts, fulfilled the duty, which, on the other side, I had thought the
rulers deficient in, of averting a civil war, and with what kind of
temper they had acted. # British- Parliament.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 263
" The result of a fair investigation, which has employed much
of my time here, is, that the design of administration was to draw
from the Colonies a substantial, solid revenue; that every overture
towards accommodation was extorted by fears arising from ad
verse events, and couched in terms of equivocation, which were
meant to be retracted upon a change of circumstances which actu
ally has happened ; that the real design was to enhance the influ
ence of the Crown, by multiplying officers dependent on it. In
short, to establish in the Colonies the system of corruption by
which their government here is carried on. For in examining the
constitution of this country, at this day, by its principles, it is clear
to me that it has no longer an existence. The very fountain is
polluted, and corruption pervades every channel of power. Par
liaments are a mere sound, and the majorities are subservient to the
will of the minister, and ready equally to support the most con
tradictory systems. The great officers are abandoned to luxury
and dissipation, and the public is plundered to promote their ex
travagances. No man's merit carries him into office, but merely
his Parliamentary interest, and this interest over a set of venal bo
roughs, which are bought and sold like the ancient villeins. In
short, the national character is so depraved, that there is, not spirit
to rescue their government from destruction.
" Under these circumstances, I find my mind totally absolved
from all ideas of duty. I see the British constitution in its most
essential principles totally lost. I find the British spirit extinct.
I see luxury its predominant character, and power in almost every
department centered in those who are most abandoned, and that
class of people who might have virtue to rescue the government
from its abuses, excluded from office because they have not the
means of corruption. Absolved, therefore, from all the ties of al
legiance, I consider myself now as a citizen of the world, and to
my native country am I determined to return, as the country of all
others the dearest to me, as it ever has been ; for I never can be
intimidated from avowing, that its welfare was the first object of
my views, however it may be thought that I had erred in choosing
the means to promote it."
This may justly be pronounced a document of rare interest, and

264 THE LIFE of
those who read it, will have no difficulty in accounting for the
readiness and perfect satisfaction with which Mr. Van Schaack
conformed to the new order of things, on his return to America.**
Althouglj averse to many of the public measures of his countrymen,
he had never been bigoted in his views. To use his own language,
he aimed " to view things, not with the jaundiced eye of prejudice,
but with a philosophic expansion and liberahty." His mind was
open to conviction on all subjects, and candor formed another,
and a prominent trait in his character. He had, in fact, (as he ex
pressed himself in a letter to a friend,) during his residence in
England, " held a language rather different from the general cur
rent;" and the candid expression of his sentiments had subjected
him to the charge of apostasy. With such liberal views and
feelings, it is not surprising that his heart should pant for peace,
and that he should have hailed its approach in connection with the
unconditional acknowledgment of his country's independence, with
out any of the emotions of humbled pride, and with no other feelings
than those of marked satisfaction.
His determination to return to his native country was frustrated
from time to time, in consequence of the suspense in which he was
kept by the faculty, in regard to an operation upon his eye. On his
arrival in England, he had consulted the most experienced oculists,
who dissuaded him from an operation for fear of its injuring the
sight of the other eye, which remained unimpaired. At one time,
however, he determined to undergo the operation. In prospect of
a fatal result he proceeded to arrange his papers with the greatest
Composure, and drew his will. It commenced as follows :
" In the name of God, amen. I, Peter Van Schaack, late of
the city of New-York in North America, and now residing in the
city of London, being in the full possession of my faculties, and in
ihe enjoyment of my usual state of health, (except a complaint in
my eyes which occasioned my leaving my native country, and for
which I am soon to undergo a dangerous operation,) and being duly
* In the course of his life, the author never heard Mr. Van Schaack utter a
word of complaint in regard to the treatment he had received in the Revolu
tion. His own sufferings and privations were entirely lost sight of, in the
satisfaction which he derived from the prosperity of his country, and in his
devotion to the education of her youth.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 265
impressed with a sense of the precariousness of this transitory exist
ence, do make this my last will :* First, I direct my just debts to be
paid, and also my funeral charges, which, if I live to return to Amer
ica, are to be at the discretion of my executors ; but if I die in
England, I limit them to five pounds, because I will not suffer the
generous regard of my friends, to demonstrate itself in this unavail
ing and useless manner, nor a fund to be lessened, which stands
appropriated to purposes infinitely dearer to me than any thing in
life, the education and advancement of my children."
In the autumn of 1780, while on a visit to his brother-in-law,
Henry Cruger, at Bristol, he was alarmed by an attack upon the
left eye, which had hitherto been sound. He thus records the
circumstance in his Journal :
" Sept 13th. Having for a few days past discovered symptoms
of a cataract in my left eye, (the only one of wliich unfortunately
I have had any use for four years and a half past !) I set out for
London, in order to counteract so alarming»an attack.
" 15th. Mr. Birch being out of town, I went to Mr. John
Hunter, surgeon, Jermyn-street, who advised me to have recourse
to electricity, and also to take ten grains of calcinet: mercur:
divided into so many pills, one each evening on going to bed. Mr.
Hunter's humane behavior to me merits my grateful remembrance,
having most politely refused taking a fee from me, which I offered
him both now and on a former occasion.
" 19th. Mr. Birch, Essex-street, being returned, I resumed his
electrical operations. ¦»
" 21st. He cut a seton in the back part of my neck, which I pro
posed and he approved of. N. B. The symptoms of the approach
ing cataract were, first motes and flitting clouds passing before the
eye, and afterwards a dimness, which makes the atmosphere appear
hazy, print considerably diminished, insomuch as to require a
magnifying glass to enable me to see characters as they appeared
just before to the naked eye.
" From the 16th to the 22d, no alteration or increase of the
symptoms. " 23d. Having waited on several persons who had undergone
surgical operations by Baron de Wenzel, I called on the Baron in
34

266 THE LIFE OF
Sackville-street, and from what he told me would have submitted
to his operation, if Mr. Hunter did not dissuade me.
" 24th. Having stated my case to Mr. Hunter, he advised me
against the operation, till I had made a further trial of the remedies
I was in the use of. I told him of my determination to return to my
native country in the spring, and that as the Baron was going away
soon, I was on that account the more anxious. But as he told me
he performed the operation himself, I told him I would wait as he
advised, in which my friends, whom I consulted on the subject,
confirmed me by their opinions.
" Oct. 17th. I am rather apprehensive of an increase of the
symptoms. " 19th. Mr. B. took the silk out of the seton in my neck."
From this attack he seems to have been relieved, for a time at
least. In the " resources of his mind" he found his greatest conso
lation against the severe calamity which then threatened him, and
which was realized some years after his return to America — a state
of total blindness.
The surrender of Lord Cornwallis's army at Yorktown, was the
signal, in England, for the abandonment of the American war,
which now exhibited, as has been said, the rare spectacle in history,
of the capture, by one and the same party, in one and the same
war, of two entire armies. From this period, the large majorities
in the British Parliament, by which the strong measures of Lord
North's administration had been sustained, rapidly diminished, and
the ministry of which he was the head was soon after driven to a
resignation. A few extracts from Mr. Van Schaack's diary and
notes of debates in Parliament, will here be introduced.
" Nov. 26, [1781,] arrived despatches of the surrender of Lord
Cornwallis and his army, to the American and French troops at
Yorktown, in Virginia. The capitulation signed 19th Oct., 1781.
" Dec. 7th. Remonstrance of the city of London to the King.
" 10th. Meeting at Westminster Hall, upon a summons from
the Committee of Westminster, and a petition and remonstrance
agreed to— one passage in which is in these words : ' Such of our
brethren in America as were deluded by the promises of your
Majesty's ministers, and the proclamations of your generals, have

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 267
been surrendered by your Majesty's armies to the mercy of their
enemies.' "Dec. 11th. The following resolutions were moved [in the
House of Commons] by Sir Jas. Lowther, and seconded by Mr.
Powis. ' 1. That it is the opinion of this House, that all the efforts
of this country, either to protect her friends in the thirteen colonies
of North America, or to frustrate the designs of her confederated
enemies, have hitherto proved ineffectual. 2. That all attempts to
reduce America by force to obedience to this country, would be
prejudicial to the interests of England, and weaken her power to
resist her ancient and natural enemies.'
" Sir J. L. The country in a wretched state ; — Empire dismem
bered ; — Fleets everywhere inferior ; — A stain which time could
never wear out had been fixed upon the honor and faith of the na
tion, by a most cruel article in the capitulation of Lord C.
" Mr. Powis. Among supporters of Ministry were many gen
tlemen of the most independent fortunes and independent minds in
the kingdom. From what motives, or upon what principles, he
could not so much as guess. Was it from experience of their abil
ities ? the strength, or number of their allies ? or the knowledge
they had of the resources of the country ? Mr. Gibbon's History
of Decline of Rome. Valentinian III. Emperor Honorius. Reso
lutions only say that America must not be the theatre of the war.
" Lord North. Improper to continue an inland continental war
in America, by marching armies through the Colonies. This in the
present circumstances of affairs ought not to be carried on. Were
we to give up all our posts in America, and totally withdraw our
troops, or were we to preserve some posts ? He knew there were
different opinions on that head. We have friends and subjects
within our lines, who contribute to consume our manufactures and
trade which would be injured by the loss of our posts. To keep
troops without suffering them to act would be mere parade. If
ministry had not stood supported by the independent country gen
tlemen, their administration would long since have tumbled to the
ground. This the terra firma of ministry.
" Sir Flet. Norton. The noble lord's language differed from
the speech from the Throne, which was to be considered as the
speech of the cabinet. Not a shilling should be voted till they

268 THE LIFE OF
had unequivocal proof that the American war, to which the coun
try owed its ruin, was to be given up.
" Mr. W. Ellis. If troops were once withdrawn from Amer
ica, the forces of America would soon follow them to the West In
dies, and the fall of those islands would be the consequence.
" Mr. Calvert. Would our withdrawing the troops uncondi
tionally, insure a like pacific disposition in the Americans. Would
it not cement their union with their allies.
" Sir Ed. Beering. Confidence in present ministers — they not
the authors of American war. He dated it from passing Stamp
Act — refused to accept an office for a friend from the then minister.
He is one of the independent country-gentlemen who support Lord
North — not a more virtuous character in the kingdom. The noble
lord has not said too much, for the people now seem tired of the
American war, and therefore he had done well in telling them that
he did not mean to prosecute it as in last campaign. Present min
isters, whigs.
" Sir William Bolben (another country-gentleman). Resolu
tions temperate, and look forward as they ought to do, and did not
retrospect ; but the first contains a truth too melancholy to be sent
into the world, and the second was premature. An army at all
events necessary, and it must be voted before the executive power
is directed not to employ it in America. Let gentlemen of both
sides speak out ; if they wished to have the posts all given up, let
them declare it openly — at present too general — the noble lord
founded in his objection.
" Colonel Barre. Estimates for the plantations were 6000 odd
hundreds fewer soldiers, but the numbers for garrisons were 10,000
more ; and for the East Indies 9000. Navy had been stated at
92 ships of the line in  , six less than last year. He would
not say that New-York ought to be abandoned, though he might
not think Rhode Island more proper.
" Lord North. Were gentlemen disposed to go that length—
of withdrawing the troops ? Were they ready to say New-York and
its dependencies ought not to be kept, either as a post whence we
might annoy the common enemy, and offer assistance to our West
India Islands, or with a consideration of having something in our
hands to make peace with ? Or might not Rhode Island be taken

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 269
as a post in the ensuing summer, if found more convenient, more
useful and more tenable ? Were their minds made up as to
Charleston and Halifax ?
" Lord Advocate said he would have voted against Lord North,
if he had not been so explicit as to altering the mode of carrying
on the war.
"Lord George Germaine. Abandoning the American war
would be a project weak, dangerous, and impracticable. Agreed
with Lord North. Hopes of better success-^King's servants united.
New-York and its dependencies necessary against the common
enemy, as well as a place of rendezvous and station for a fleet
nearer than Great Britain to the West Indies. Answers the com
parison between New-York and Gibraltar. Long Island and Sta
ten Island. Stores, &c, at New-York difficult to remove. He
never would sign the instrument to give independence to America
— that moment the British empire would be ruined. This nation
never could exist as a great and powerful people unless the sove
reign was sovereign of America. The moment the House resolved
on independence he would withdraw.
" Sir John Wrottelsly votes against Mo. in consequence of what
fell from Lord North. Ministry had been imposed on touching the
number of loyalists.
"Division for the Mo., 179
" against it, 220
 41.
" Friday, Dec. 14. Upon the subject of the supplies, the argu
ments were pretty near the same as on Sir J. Lowther's motion.
" Capt. Lutterell. Ministers, except Secretary of American
Department, awakened from their delirium by renouncing the idea
of subjugation — not afraid to trust them now with force to procure
an honorable peace — only with arms in our hands this can be
done. Not so bad an opinion of maritime power of this country
with proper management — armed neutrality, a cursed confederacy.
"Mr. Rigby. He had always deemed the American war just
and necessary, and had no doubt of its practicability. Indepen
dence he did not like to give up, or to renounce the war until we
should be first beaten. That day was now arrived, and he was
tired of the war, because he saw it was no longer practicable.

270 THE LIFE OF
Withdrawing troops from New-York he was afraid could not be
done till we have a better navy.
" Ministers ought to let the House know, whether they were
both of the same mind (Lord N. and Lord G. G.) respecting the
mode of carrying on the war.
" Lord Nugent. Strange logic, to renounce the war and yet
boggle at granting independence. There should be no hesitation
to grant it. Other powers as much interested as G. B. against,
independence. Fatal to Spain, who has not yet acknowledged it.
The Dutch would be ruined, and supplanted as carriers. Northern
Powers. " Gen. Conway. We should increase our navy, and make
soldiers serve in the fleet, and to that end, to exercise them in
working and fighting great guns. He had done so in Jersey.
" The article of capitulation which gave up to halters and the
merciless mercy of Congress, the companions of Lord C.'s arms,
was a stain never to be worn out ; an act unparalleled in the an
nals of the world. The abandoning of the Catalonians was no
thing to it : for the latter were only abandoned to themselves :
they had a town and strong works to defend them, though the
allies had abandoned them. But the poor Americans, who had
fought for us, bled for us, and been the companions of our arms,
had been delivered up to gibbets and executioners. Lord C, if
his men had not refused standing by them, would rather have per
ished than capitulate upon terms, which, if he was not excused by
extreme necessity, would have damned his reputation.*
" Feb. 18th. Motion of Mr. Fox for a resolution that there
has been great mismanagement in the navy — rejected.
" 22d. Motion of Gen. Conway for an address to the King
that he would discontinue the American war as impracticable-
rejected, — 194 193
 — majority 1.
387
" 27th. Another motion of Gen. Conway to the same purport
carried — majority 19.
"See Appendix J, for a sketch of a debate in the House of Lords, 4th Feb
ruary, 1782, in regard to the execution of Col. Haynes, at Charleston.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 271
" March 8th. Motion of Lord J. Cavendish for an address for
removal of his Majesty's ministers — rejected — majority 10.
" March 20th. Lord North informed the House that the Min
istry of this country was at an end, and that they only remained in
office till his Majesty should appoint others. The House adjourned
till Monday, the 25th.
" March, 22d 1782. Nothing is more common than to find
certain persons, who, upon every political event of importance,
trace the completion of their predictions in it. These sybilline
geniuses keep no record of their miscarriages, and when they are
reminded of them explain them away. ' If it had not been for this,
which was altogether improbable, or if that had been done, &c.'
But, before they arrogate those superior powers of understanding,
they ought to be able to show that they comprehended the whole
extent of the subject, and that they made allowance for those cas
ualties- which have produced their favorite events. It will be a
lesson of humility and of further use, to preserve a diary of one's
thoughts upon subjects of a political nature, and of his conjectures
upon the probability of events before the issue is known.
" The late changes here, occasion a variety of opinions as to
what measures will be pursued with respect to America ; what
effects they will produce upbn the minds of the people in that
country, and whether the result will be a peace, and whether that
peace will be a partial, or a general one : what kind of an alliance
subsists between America and France, and whether the former
is bound to carry on the war in conjunction with the latter, sup
posing Great Britain acknowledges her independence.
"The present topics of conversation arise from this question,
What is now to be done ? For my part, 1 take it for granted, that
the new administration will immediately apply to the several
agents and ministers of the United States, who are at the different
Courts in Europe, as well as to the Congress, with overtures for a
peace, or truce, and will signify their readiness to accede to inde
pendency, for the purpose of attaining a peace, and that to that
end they will recognise and meet them as an independent power.
I suppose this will bring about a Congress of Plenipotentiaries
from the belligerent powers. Great Britain will then ratify to
America the full object of her contest, and it is to be supposed

272 TH'E LIFE OF
that will satisfy her. Should France insist upon holding America
to a continuance of the war, it will then be known what the trea
ties between the two powers are. If they are treaties of equality,
America will then judge for herself what part she will take, actu
ated on the one part by a sense of gratitude to her ally, and on the
other by a desire of peace. Should her necessities have compell
ed her to enter into partial stipulations in favor of France, which
I do not believe, the latter will with a very ill grace insist upon
them, or urge them as an obstacle to the very object America en-
enlisted for, and that which France professed as the motive of her
interference. " The idea of a partial negotiation with America is prepos
terous, but a general Congress promises, I think, a general peace.
" It is not improbable that the French and Americans hasje
agreed upon the conquest of the West India Islands for their joint
or separate benefit ; but this agreement must have a rational con
struction, and can be only binding flagrante bellb. Preservation is
one thing, Conquest another. An agreement with respect to the
former is absolute, and all is to be risked by all the parties in
favor of the one endangered ; but as to conquest, that can be bind
ing no longer than while there is a reasonable prospect of success;
and of this, America is as much a judge as her ally. I verily
believe that the terms of agreement are ' terms of reciprocity ' and
of equality, for, although the French may have had sinister views,
I am clear in my opinion that they have not disclosed them as yet,
and this I conclude from their enlarged and liberal conduct on
other occasions. Their ambition does not descend to little advan
tages. They sacrifice partial and great objects to those which are
still greater and more comprehensive.
" It is said, that it is manifest the French mean to have footing
in America, of which they will not be dispossessed, by their hold
ing Yorktown. But were they not called in by America? Did not a
plenipotentiary extraordinary (Col. Laurens) go over to solicit an
armament ; and are they to remain without fortifications for their
own defence ? There is not a spark of evidence to prove, nor the
shadow of a reason to conjecture, that it is not perfectly agreeable to
Congress, and even that it is not at their request, that the French
troops remain there. Nor are the Americans without manifest

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 273
advantage from them, since it prevents the necessity of their raising
troops of their own, and leaves their inhabitants at liberty to bestow
their time on tillage, manufactures and commerce, as well as in
ship-building and privateering.
" The option, I fear, is between two extremes only, either to
make a general peace, or to continue the war against France,
America, Spain and Holland. The practicability of a separate
peace I have no idea of. Administration have great difficulties :
on the one hand, their favorable disposition to the Americans ; on
the other, the power of the French marine.
" March 25th, a new ministry, being a total change, the Lord
Chancellor Thurloe only excepted."
In the new arrangement, the Marquis of Rockingham was
appointed first lord of the treasury, the Earl of Shelburne and
Charles James Fox, secretaries of state ; the latter for the northern,
and the former for the southern department, which last included
the charge of American affairs. Mr. Burke held the office of pay
master-general of the forces.
The administration of the new ministry was of but short dura
tion. s The Marquis of Rockingham died suddenly, on the first of
July. On the fifth, a schism in the ministry was disclosed, and Mr.
Fox and Mr. Burke resigned their respective stations, and were
followed by nearly all their associates in office. The ostensive
ground for this abrupt secession from the cabinet, was an alleged
difference of opinion with Lord Shelburne on the question of Amer
ican independence, but the real cause was believed to be political
disappointment at the promotion of his lordship. Parliament met
early in December, and the King's speech noticed the subject of
the provisional articles of peace and acknowledging the indepen
dence of the United States, which had been entered into with the
American commissioners on the 30th November.
The opposition to Lord Shelburne's administration was now
composed of two factions, the one headed by Mr. Fox, and the
other by Lord North, and the two branches of this motley associa
tion, which subsequently formed the celebrated coalition, united in
condemning the provisional articles of peace, though for different
and contradictory reasons ; the real object of both being the over-
35

274 THE LIFE of
turn of the Shelburne cabinet, in which they eventually succeeded,
though in its consequences involving their own political destruction.
In the discussions in the House of Commons growing out of this
part of the speech from the throne, Mr. Fox undertook to redeem
a public pledge which he had given in July previous, of disclosing
the reasons for his resigning office at that time, alleging that it
was because the Prime Minister instead of proposing the uncondi
tional acknowledgment of American independence, had made it
a term of peace with France. The Ex-minister's reasons were
not satisfactory to the British public ; and it was probably upon
this occasion, that Mr. Van Schaack entered the field of political
discussion, to expose the inconsistencies of one of the greatest
statesmen that has figured upon the pages of English history.
" Questions proposed to a certain Ex-minister ' of distinguished
abilities,' upon the subject of the independency of America, and
the conduct of the said Ex-minister, and of Lord S — e, with respect
to it. " When the new ministry came into power, the 25th March
last, (a memorable day in the annals of this country,) was therej
or was there not, at that time, some system with respect to Ameri
can independence agreed upon in the cabinet, pursuant to the funda
mental principles upon which that administration was formed ?
" Was not the distribution of the great offices of state made
agreeably to the arrangement settled among yourselves, and was
not Lord Shelburne placed in the office of secretary of state for
the southern department, and did not such his department compre
hend the affairs of America, while yours, as the northern, was dis
tinct from them ; and this agreeably to the arrangement settled
among yourselves 1
" When Sir Guy Carlton sailed for America, on the 8th April)
did his instructions, or did they not, contain a recognition of
absolute unequivocal independence ? If they did not, how could
you co-operate in, or accede to any measure short of this, or to
any temporizing measures whatsoever ? If they did, how will you
account for your subsequent charges against Lord S — ?
" Did you not, on the 1st July last, declare in the House, that
you would not have come into office, if independence had not been

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 275
agreed upon ? And did you not, the next day, declare, in answer
to Sir George Saville, that all his Majesty's ministers were unani
mous upon this point, and that no change of circumstance, not even
the stroke of Providence (of which there was so melancholy an
instance in the death of the noble marquis) could prevent the sur
viving members of this cabinet from adhering to this principle?
" Was not this declaration made, to obviate Sir George Saville's
objections to the bill for compelling persons holding offices in the
West Indies and America, to reside there ; the objections of the
honest baronet being founded upon the jealousies which he sup
posed the Americans would entertain from that bill, as if their in
dependence was not intended to be acknowledged, and the rather
(as he urged) because Lord Shelburne was generally thought to be
against independence ?
" Did you not at that time declare, ' that the noble lord, of
whom every body thought highly,' meaning Lord S., had from the
necessity of the case become a proselyte to independence, and had
even brought his Majesty to think favorably of it likewise ?
" Notwithstanding all this, did you not, on the 9th July, one
week after the above, declare that the then premier (the said
noble lord, of whom every one thought highly, meaning) ' was
hostile to the principles of Lord Rockingham's administration ; that
you had quitted the cabinet because a national question had been
carried against you ; that there was no design in the cabinet to
acknowledge unconditional independence ; that Lord North's prin
ciples already existed there, and that you expected his adherents
again introduced into it ?'
" Was it not a strange phcenomenon, that while you was hold
ing this language, concerning a noble lord, of whom the week
before ' every body thought highly,' the gazettes were filled with
addresses to the King, thanking his Majesty for taking into his
councils, men who had the confidence of the people ?
" Can you reconcile these seeming contradictions, and will you,
the man of the people, account to the people, why, if the point of
independence was not settled to your mind, you could remain in
office from the 25th March to the 24th June, (I will allow you
a week before the marquis's death, when, according to your own
account, you first proposed your material question,) with ' a man

276 THE LIFE OF
hostile to the noble marquis's principles,' and without once propos
ing the aforesaid material question, founded, not upon ' a shade of
difference, but upon the important point of peace or war ?'
" Would the noble marquis have come into office, or remained
in it till his death, with a man hostile to his principles, upon the
cardinal point of the independence of America, and would he have
covenanted, that this very man should be placed in that very de
partment? Would Cato suffer Cataline to become a consul? or
would Cato have taken Cataline for his colleague, as Mr. Pitt well
observed ?
" Did not Sir Guy Carlton and Admiral Digby, in a letter to
Gen. Washington, published at New-York the 2d August, declare
that ' his Majesty's commissioner at Paris, was authorized to pro
pose independence in the first instance, and not to make it the
condition of a general peace ?'
"Was not this letter of 2d August written in consequence of
despatches sent from hence in the middle of June last, and were
not the instructions to the commissioner at Paris, agreed upon and
sent to him while you was in the Cabinet ?
" Did you not declare at the Westminster meeting, that ' while
the Duke of Richmond remained in office, you would have a secu
rity that no wrong measures would be adopted ;' and is not the
Duke still in office, and have you not lately taken pains spargere
voces ambiguas, and to create suspicions of the integrity of the
whole present administration, for is not an attack upon the prime
minister, an attack upon all who continue to act with him ?
" Have not the Duke of Richmond, and the other colleagues of
Lord S. repeatedly declared, that he faithfully adheres to the prin
ciples of the administration of 25th March, and that when he ceases
to do so, they will forsake him ?
" In balancing the evidence, therefore, for and against Lord
Shelburne's fidelity and sincerity, shall we suffer the vague charges
of one or two discontented individuals, to preponderate against the
testimony of such distinguished characters, as those who remain in
office with his lordship ?
" You and your associates, having been among the ins as well
as the outs, know how much easier it is, by weak arguments to
attack and embarrass the best system of administration, than by the

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 277
strongest, to defend it against the cavils of faction ; and he has told
the public (the 14th June) what a great difference there is between
theory and practice. But he measures the conduct of others, by
the rigid rules of theoretic perfection, and defends his own, by the
loose doctrines of practical expedience."*
* The signature assumed was probably " Candor.'' This was not the
only communication from Mr. Van Schaack's pen in regard to the ex-minis
ter, as is evident from the following vestige of another of his manuscripts,
which evidently preceded the one in the text :
" I have ventured thus to declare my sentiments on an important sub
ject, in the plain unvarnished language of common sense. With those who
study the elegance of style more than the solidity of argument, and who
would sacrifice truth itself to a well turned period, or a brilliant expression,
I shall never enter into competition. The conduct of administration on the
present important occasion appears to me so perfectly defensible, upon every
principle of national policy, that in my opinion they merit the public ap
plause in a most eminent degree. No discrimination should be made ; the
merit is due to the whole cabinet of the 25th March last. It was the basis
upon which that administration came into power ; and as some people are
weak enough to believe, that Mr. Fox seceded because he was overruled
when this measure was proposed, I shall, in a few days, publish certain
facts and dates, which will evidently show that this was not the true cause of
his abrupt secession, and that it really was, as Gen. Conway observed, occa
sioned only by a " shade of difference."

278 THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER XIII.
One of the most interesting features in the character of Peter
Van Schaack, was his fondness for youth. This trait in his char
acter displayed itself, in an uncommon degree, at an early age. In
a letter from London, he says : " My room is in holiday times filled
with the children of persons with whom I have but slight connec
tions, and the repetition of their visits convinces me, that my be
havior must be an indication of the feelings of my heart." This
partiality for children, while it shows the amiableness of his dispo
sition, was coupled with a devotion to the mental culture of the
rising generation which could not be surpassed.
In the summer of 1782, a young lad,* a nephew of Mr. Van
Schaack, was sent to England by his parents, who resided in
America, to be educated ; and he was committed to Mr. Van
Schaack's superintendence. Upon the sudden and melancholy
death of his parents shortly afterwards, and within a few days of
each other, the guardianship of the young gentleman devolved
upon the subject of this sketch, by whom he was placed in a gram
mar-school at Twickenham, a village situated about a dozen miles
from London. As Mr. Van Schaack spent most of his time in the
metropolis, his propinquity to his orphan ward gave him frequent
opportunities of personal interviews, which he improved to advance
his young friend in his studies, and in the cultivation of the amiable
qualities of the heart, evincing a conscientious regard for the faith
ful performance of the trust which had devolved upon him under
such melancholy circumstances. In the intervals of their separa
tion, he corresponded with his young friend, by whom his letters
were carefully preserved. This correspondence so beautifully
illustrates Mr. Van Schaack's mode of intercourse with his young
* Henry Walton, Esquire, of Saratoga Springs.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 279
students, as well as his scholarship, that no apology can be neces
sary for placing a part of it in this work; especially when it is
considered that the instruction of youth employed a great share of
his time, during the last thirty years of his life.
TO H  W  .
My dear Harry :
I have been so engaged with writing and other matters of
business, that I have not been able to give you a single line, or to
pay you a visit ; but I hope to see you at Twickenham on Satur
day, but should that fail, be assured I shall be with you early in
the next week.
I wish you had told me what books you were directed to read,
and how you have found the air of Twickenham agree with you.
Every thing must appear new and strange to you as yet, but I
hope you will' soon find yourself perfectly happy in your situation.
It is for your own good, my dear boy, and you must not repine.
When you are grown up, you will remember with pleasure the
days of your schooling ; and you must not forget what joy it will
afford your tender parents, to hear that you are making progress
in your studies. Don't neglect your grammar. Concord and gov
ernment you know are the great points you must attend to, other
wise your writing, speaking and translating will be only rudis,
indigestaque moles, quam dixere chaos.
Have you been at Tiddington ? If not, you ought to pay Mr.
Franks an early visit ; but if I see you, as I firmly expect, on Sat
urday, we will, with Mr. Stretch's permission, go together. Your
friends at Isleworth must also have your grateful attention for their
civility. You should make a memorandum of every thing you
have to say to me, that nothing may be forgotten. Present my
respectful compliments to Mr. Stretch and the ladies. Believe me
always, my dear Harry, Your affectionate uncle,
Thursday, 5th Sept., 1782. Peter Van Schaack.
TO H  W  .
My dear Harry :
I set out for Bristol to-morrow, so that I shall not have the

280

THE life of

pleasure of seeing you for at least a fortnight ; but I shall expect
to hear from you next week. Direct for me at Henry Cruger's,
Esq., Bristol. Write a long letter, if you find it agreeable, and
tell me every particular about your health, your studies and your
amusements. I hope you are happy in your situation ; but, my
dear Harry, we cannot have every thing to our mind. We must
put up with many inconveniences in every condition of life. No
one is free from care, trouble and affliction of some kind or another.
We must be thankful for the benefits we enjoy, and be patient under
adversity. I had no letter from your papa by the last vessel, which I
believe was owing to the indisposition of your mamma. He himself
was also unwell. I hope we shall have more pleasing accounts
by the next conveyance. All your friends inquire kindly after
you. God bless you, my dear Harry, and believe me to be
Your most affectionate uncle and friend,
Friday, 13th Sept., 1182. P. V. S.
You should not inclose your letters, because that doubles the
postage. Here is economy for you, Harry.

TO H  W  .
My dear Harry :
I arrived in town in time for dinner, though I walked all the
way, and paid several visits along the road. No letter from Bris
tol as yet, but if your uncle does not come up to-morrow, or inform
me that he will be in town in a few days, I shall propose your
coming about next Tuesday. However, this I will leave to your
own choice.
You inquired about your sisters, my dear Harry. They are
well and every care is taken of them. I should not be surprised if
your aunt Cruger brought one or two, perhaps all three, over here. '
Be assured that you all have friends who will take care of you ;
and as for you, my dearest Harry, I shall consider you as more par
ticularly under my care. My own son, much as I love him, shall
not have more of my attention, and your happiness it shall be my
constant object to promote. I hope you consider me as your
friend, and be assured you will never find any change in me.
From my early youth I never yet have lost the friendship of any

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 281
one, and even those who took the opposite side in the public trou
bles of our own country, have assured me of the continuance of
their personal regard. Notwithstanding the difference of our years,
you must be free and unreserved with me, and tell me every wish
of your heart. Don't be afraid to speak out, and write to me as
freely as you would to one of your companions.
I hope you will keep up the correspondence you told me you
had begun with one of your fellow students. It will be entertain
ing and improving — utile cum dulci.
Pray do I write plain enough for you ? Tell me if I do not,
and I will endeavor to do better. Present my most respectful com
pliments to Mr. Stretch, and the young ladies, whose kindness to
you I shall never forget. Adieu ! my dear boy, and believe me
always, Your affectionate uncle and friend,
10th October, 1782. P. V. S.
Upon recollection, I find that I very generously took back the
half crown I gave you.

TO H  W  .
My dear Boy :
Every evening this week have I expected a letter from you,
but I do not find fault, because I feel some reproaches of conscience
at my own silence ; that is, I feel a little as you did when you slept
you know where, and when the young gentleman did not do quite
as he ought to have done towards the old gentleman. But old
gentlemen are very forgiving, and young ones ought to improve
and mend their ways. I hope, my dear Harry, you have exactly
the same excuse for your silence as I have for mine ; that is, a
great deal of business, as I assure you, upon my honor, that I have
had ever since you left me. I can now hardly hold my pen, as you
will judge by my manner of writing, but I cannot bear the thought
of your being one moment in doubt of my attention to you. Never
will you find me otherwise than your warm friend, though often
grave and thoughtful, and sometimes a little cross or so, and the
like. Our friends at New- York were well, your sweet little sisters
in particular. We expect a fleet soon, and I hope many letters,
and I am not without some expectation of seeing your uncle, the
Col., and your aunt. 36

282

THE LIFE OF

Uncle Bristol is in town, and has been for several days, and yet
we have not seen each other but twice, he being also very busy.
He begged his love to you when I wrote. Let me hear from you
soon, and present my most respectful compliments to Mr. Stretch
and the ladies. God bless you, my dear boy. Yours ever,
Friday, 22d Nov., 1782. P. V. Schaack.
What book and what line in Virgil are you now at?
TO H  W  .
My dear Harry:
I have been going to see you almost every day since last
Thursday, but have been prevented by indispensable business.
When I see you, I will tell you at least in part what this business
has been. To-day I must be at 'Change, to-morrow is packet-day,
and on Thursday you know is the meeting of Parliament, when we
shall have the great and important point decided, whether the war
is to continue or peace is to take place. I dare say you join me in
praying for the latter. Suppose you should come to town on
Thursday morning for a day or two, when you will see the parade
of the King's going to the House of Lords. I could, I believe,
get you in to hear the speech from the throne, but it would be too
much crowded. However, you shall see both Houses of Parlia^
ment. If you have the least inclination, my dear boy, I beg you
will present my compliments to Mr. Stretch, and beg in my name,
that he will permit you to come to town. Take a coach from
Picadilly. Your uncle has intended to go to see you, but is like
me confined to the town. When do your holidays commence ?
Let me hear from you, and how you are, if you do not come
to town. My best compliments to Mr. Stretch and the ladies, and
believe me, my dear boy,
Your truly affectionate uncle and friend,
Tuesday, 11 o'clock A. M., 3d Bee, 1782. P. V. S.
TO H  W  .
My dear Boy:
I ask ybu .a thousand pardons for my late silence. Your fine,
sprightly letters merited a better return, and your request for cash

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 283
an earlier compliance. I am so pleased with the accounts I
receive of your cheerful, manly behavior, and of your erect car
riage, that I will deny you nothing. Continue to go on in this
laudable way, and my friendship for you will, if possible, daily
increase. I shall have great pleasure in contributing to the
enlargement of your mind. " Delightful task to rear the tender
plant, to teach the young idea how to shoot, to form the youthful
mind," &c. This is from Thomson, to whose tender heart I am
willing to believe yours has great resemblance. But to enable me
to assist you, you must write without restraint, and lay open your
whole mind to my view. Believe me, I have not forgotten the
time when I was young, and will make the most liberal allowances
for every thing, but the vices of youth.
I have conversed an hour with Mrs. Drinkwater about you.
Your red cape I am afraid must be taken off, or the poor nymphs
will be in danger of their little hearts. As you are powerful, you
must be merciful, and take care of your own heart, too.
Nunc "scio quid sit amor. Duris in cotibus, &c. 8 Eclog. 43.
Your friends in New-York are all well, and your uncle Gerard
and my brother desire their most affectionate wishes. You should
write to the former, and I wish you would write once more to your
cousin Harry, though he does not deserve it — but do it for my
sake. You say nothing of your studies. Omne tulit punctum qui
miscuit utile cum dulci. 'Tis in Horace. Apropos : Do you know
how to find out what part of the book it is in ? Mr. Stretch will
show you the method, and it will serve you upon other occasions.
A little dash of Latin once in a way, will be very acceptable. I
have a plan in view for you next spring which I shall communicate
when I see you. Your opinion will have great weight with me, I
assure you. Treat me with confidence, and without reserve, and
you will make me happy. God bless you, my dear boy !
Yours, ever,
30th Nov., 1783. P. V. S.
My friend Mr. De Peyster is, thank God, much better. He is
one of the most excellent of men.
Poor Jacob has been in a pack of troubles, and among others

284 THE LIFE OF
has had a quarrel with John, which will cause his removing from
Mr. S.'s. Suppose you was to write a letter to them both, recom
mending a reconciliation. We are all subject to passion, and
therefore to give offence ; but we should not harbor resentment,
and therefore should -forgive. In most quarrels, both sides are more
or less in fault. " To err is human, to forgive divine." Humanum
est errare et nescire, ens entium, miserere mei ! This idea should
be always present to us, and as somebody says, " anger was not
made for such a frail being as man is." Improve these hints, and
act the part of a mediator. Tell them you have heard of the
quarrel from your uncle.
You will excuse this scrawl, my pen having been in want of
more mending than my poor eyes enabled me to give it. Perhaps
you will criticise the composition of my letter, too, which I give
you leave to do, and promise not to be offended, but rather will
thank you for it. Tell me where I am incorrect, where the sen
tences are unconnected, and where my meaning is obscure, or my
quotations inapplicable, &c, et eris mihi magnus Apollo.

TO H — .r- W-
My dear Harry :

I thank you for your letter, which I answer with the more plea
sure, as I can inform you of the welfare of your friends, particu
larly of the sweet little girls.
Your uncle and aunt here are of opinion you should learn to
•dance ; neque tu choreas sperne, puer ; so says Horace you know,
and to these three opinions I will add my consent as the fourth.
You don't tell me one word about your old friends, Virgil and
Ovid ; don't let the parler Francois shove these respectable and
venerable ancients out of your mind. How goes on the grammar?
You may as well cut off your right leg and attempt to dance a
minuet la cour, as to think of understanding either Latin or French
without this necessary help. Get all you can, but don't forget
what you have acquired. I hope Mr. Stretch has escaped from the
rioters at Portsmouth, and I dare say when you heard of this mob,
you immediately turned to the 1st Book of the iEneid for Virgil's
description of one.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 285
Ac veluti magno in populo cum scepe coorta est
Seditio, sasvitque animis ignobile vulgus ;
Jamque faces et saxa volant. Furor arma ministrat.
I am sure you would be displeased with me, if I was to tell
you that this is at the 152d line, so don't take notice that I have
mentioned it, for I dare say you have it by heart, as well as the
beautiful lines following — turn forte, &c.
As we are now soon to enjoy the blessings of peace, what pretty
sentiments can you give me of your own, or what quotations from
authors, upon such a happy event ? While you consider the gen
eral benefits of it, you will however not fail of pitying our unhappy
countrymen, who are banished and deprived of their property.
Pon't you think they may say —
N08 patrite fines et dulcia linquimus arva ,
Nos patriam fugimus 
To-morrow evening I go to see Mrs. Siddons, with a party who
have taken a box. I wish you could be with us, but as this can't
be, you'll say I only teaze and tantalize you. Apropos : Do you
know the derivation of the word tantalize? It is from Tantalus,
whose history you may look for among the proper names in your
dictionary. If you knew how late it is, and how fatigued I am, you would
say, uncle you are too good to write so long a letter to such a little
fellow as I am. Thank you, Harry, so good night.
Yours most affectionately,
Wednesday night, 5th Feb., 1783. P. V. S.
TO H  W  .
London, 28th Feb., 1783.
Last night, my dear boy, I received your letter, and thank you
for it. I am sorry you should have any cause to charge either me
or yourself with neglect. I hope we have too much friendship and
regard for each other, ever to slight one another. On my part,
be assured, that when I do not write so often as you may expect,
it is owing to my being taken up with business, and that business,
my dear Harry, often concerns you and your sisters, as well as my
self and your cousins. Apropos : Suppose you was to write a few

286 THE LIFE OF
lines to your kinsman Harry, at Kinderhook? I expect some
vessels will soon sail for America^ Your uncle intends going out
in April. You do not mention your having been indisposed, and yet I fear
this has been the case by your taking medicine ; write to me on
this subject, and let me know whether you haveany reason to sus
pect that the air of Twickenham does not agree with you. Be
free on the subject, for I know you will not be whimsical. How
are the boys in general as to health ? Are there any whose con
stitutions resemble yours, and how does their situation affect them?
You say in the P. S., " My courage is out." Pray, my dear
Harry, explain what you mean by this immediately, as it has given
me uneasiness. Whenever any thing dwells upon your mind,
you must speak out. Am I not your friend as well as your uncle ?
and though I may sometimes be a little peevish, (which you know
is not uncommon with old gentlemen,) yet, be assured you have not
a friend in the world, who loves you more sincerely and would do
more to make you happy.
How do you come on era Francois ? What book of Virgil and ,
Ovid are you now reading ? Who was the man who was turned
into an olive tree ? Tell me a little about that. The olive branch
you know is the emblem of peace. I will not lengthen my letter
for fear of tiring you ; and will only add that if you get this to
night, I wish you would let me have a line by to-morrow's post,
concerning your health and your COURAGE. My respects to Mr.
S. and the ladies. Yours most affectionately,
Friday. P. V. Schaack.

TO H  w-

Dear Harry :
" My courage is out," as  says in the Beggar's Opera. If
you had expressed yourself in this manner, I should not have
been uneasy.
Your simile is pretty, and tranquillity was the proper word
where you placed it, and well spelled. Some of your words are
not quite so right as to orthography. You have mistaken proscrip
tion for prescription— suspicion for suspicion — of for off— presant

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 287
for present — oppera for opera — reco/ect for recollect — freznds for
friends — attend to all these in future.
I just called at your uncle's but he was out ; not out of his
courage I hope, but out of his lodgings. I will desire Mr. Stretch
to give you some fresh courage. I promise myself the pleasure of
soon seeing you, but cannot say precisely when it will be. Tell
me a little about Apulus, for I do not remember the gentleman.
The ships for New- York will sail in about a month, as it is
supposed, so that you may write when you are at leisure. How
do you like Mr. Stretch's book ? , Do you think it would please
and instruct your cousin Harry ? Are there any passages that
have given you particular pleasure ? If so, just tell me one or
two of them, in as few words, or as many, as you find agreeable ?
What parts of Virgil and Ovid are you now in ? Try to give me
a little dash in every letter — verbum sat — sapienti — for is not your
uncle, sapiens vir ?
I have ordered a set of books to be given to the boy in the
Kinderhook academy, who shall compose the best exercise upon
the blessings of peace, either in . prose or in poetry. I wish some
rich man would do the same thing in your academy. If you have
any poets among you, try to get them to make an ode to peace —
but propose it as coming from yourself. Present my most res
pectful compliments to Mr. Stretch and the ladies, and believe
me, my dearest boy, to be Your truly affectionate uncle and friend,
Peter Van Schaack.

TO H  W  .
My dear Boy :
Your last letter is by far the best I ever received from you,
and on that account has given me very great pleasure. You can't
imagine how much it will improve you, if you pursue this method ;
attention is the thing that will enable you to surmount all difficulties.
I thank you for the story of Apulus, and when I see the poet, I
will put your question to him about the situation of the cave ; but
perhaps the nymphs might take offence at such an inquiry and
turn you and me into wild olive trees, which I am not yet prepar-

288 THE LIFE OF
ed for — are you ? You see these ladies are terrible beings when
they are insulted — tanteene animis ccelestibus irce 1
I wish you had given me a little sketch of the simile in Virgil,
as well as of the fable in Ovid — one Latin sentence at least, should
now and then embellish your letters. Perhaps you are afraid of
being thought pedantic, but of this, between you and me, there is
no danger. Write to me just as freely as you would to one of
your companions, and lay all restraint on account of the difference
of our years, aside. I was much pleased with the beginning of
your letter ; some people think, they ought never to write a letter
without some hackneyed* expression at the beginning of it of this
sort — " I now sit down to write you, and hope these few-dines- will
find you well as I am at this present writing," or " I received your
';letter, and am glad you was well," &c. &c. — and then the conclu
sion — "so no more at present," and the like.
I intended to have scribbled this sheet full, but have been so
often interrupted, that I will confine myself to a few subjects. How
is your health, and have you got the better of your cold ? Your
uncle is gone out of town, but returns in a fortnight with Mrs, C.
Both of them always inquire kindly after you, and send you their
love. I think you should write one or other of them, and return
them thanks for their civilities, and you may apologize for not
doing it sooner, as you expected them at Twickenham. The ships
for New- York are nearly ready, and therefore you have no time to
¦ lose, but don't write in a hurry. Pray write to your cousin at
Kinderhook, and desire him to let you know the rules and regula
tions of the academy, how he disposes of his time, how many
scholars they have, and any thing else you like. Wish him joy
oh the peace.
I am in haste, but always, with my best compliments to the
ladies, my dear Harry, Your affectionate friend,
No. 23 Church-st., Soho, { p. V. S.
llth-18lh March, 1183.

* You know the derivation of this word, which I use with great propriety
now, and the more so on account of a late letter I had from Hackney, you
can .guess from whom. Verbum sat.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 289

TO H  W  .
Dear Harry :
I have before told you that I was surprised at your telling me
you intended coming to town on Friday last, because when you
left me but a few days before, you did not say a syllable on the
subject, which you had an opportunity of doing, when I told you
of my intention of letting you come for a day or two, when the ex
hibition opened. Reflect how very lately you have been in town,
and if you think it a little hard to be at school, while your compan
ions are at play, consider that you was from the school when they
were at their studies. Fatis contraria fata rependens, (Virgil, 1
M. 243,) — that is, you must take the bitter with the sweet. Be
sides, the country is now so delightful, that it will be much better
for your health, than the smoky, noisy town.
You conclude your letter, "I am in great hast." Now, Harry, there
is not in the English language such a word as hast; you must
therefore have omitted some letter — what was it ? Was it an a or
an e ? If the first, then it will make the Latin word hasta, which
is, I believe, a spear. The sentence then will be, " Dear uncle, I am
in a great spear. Yours affectionately." But if you meant to
have added the letter e, then it will be, " I am in great haste," that
is, hurry. Now letters written in a hurry, are very seldom cleverly
done; however, the way you have spelled the word, proves
you was in a hurry, for you had not time even to write the word
out, although it contains but five letters. But to be serious, let me
hear from you soon, and don't write in haste, but tell me what your
wishes are, and what your plan is about spending the next week,
and be assured I will comply with them, as far as I can with a
prudent regard to all circumstances. It is not my intention to
thwart you, or to interfere with your innocent amusements. Your
happiness is near my heart, and, be assured, I consult it in all I do
towards you.
Present my most respectful compliments to Mr. Stretch, (to
whom I would have written if I had not been indisposed,) and to
the ladies. Yours most sincerely,
19th April, 1783. P. V. Schaack.
37

290 THE LIFE OF

TO H  W  .
My dear Harry :
I did not receive your letter last night till after the post hour,
or I would have answered it immediately, as I would not keep you
a moment in suspense about my being satisfied with your apology,
which I am most perfectly. We are all liable to errors, but a can
did ingenuous acknowledgment should atone for them. Believe
me, my dear boy, it is painful to me ever to find fault with you,
but my love for you, and the duty I owe you as a guardian, will
compel me to perform this task, when I think it necessary. When
you grow up, I hope you will be convinced, by the conduct I shall
observe towards you, that I have been your friend, a name which
should be held sacred. I will now beg your pardon for making so
free with your letter as to criticise and to play upon some of the
expressions; as there is no displeasure, I hope you will laugh
at it. I am almost ashamed to think how often I am obliged to
change my intention of paying a visit to Mr. Stretch's agreeable
family, but you know, my dear Harry, how much I am taken up
with the concerns of others ; but as we must not live merely for
ourselves in society, it is a duty upon us to devote part of our time
to our friends. It is a pleasing circumstance when we can make
ourselves useful to others. I fully intended to have spent this week
in the country, but I fear it will be out of my power. I hope you
walk about a good deal. I shall soon write to you again, and you
must excuse my present haste, which is always pardonable when
there is a good reason for it, but never else.
My respectful compliments to Mr. S. and the ladies. I am,
. most truly, Your affectionate uncle and friend,
22d April, 1783. p. y. Schaack.

TO H  W-
My dear Harry :

I heard with much concern of your headache, and your long
silence since has increased my uneasiness. Indeed I did not de-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 291
serve another letter from you, the first being unanswered, but Ja
cob tells me he has not heard from you since you mentioned your
indisposition. I will not attempt to justify myself against your
criticism, and shall be happy that you will continue to point out
my errors. This will be acting that friendly part by me, which
I do towards you and the rest of my friends, old and young, at least
the sensible ones. A fool cannot bear reproof.
Were I disposed to prevaricate, or to twistify, I would remind
you that I said it was a general remark that Virgil never, but upon
one occasion, gave any other epithet than pius to the hero of his
admirable* poem, and that the instance you mention does not dis
prove the remark. It was only in somnis that he appeared ferus,
and dreams you know ought to be taken the contrary way. It was
only to Bido that he seemed ferus, and this whilst she was in a
state of frenzy. However, as I said before, I submit to your re
mark, which I hope will be a prelude to others as occasions offer
in the course of your reading. But, while I freely decline palliat
ing my mistakes, let us not forget to observe the propriety of our
amiable poet, who uses everywhere such expressions only as are
adapted to the occasion. Will you pardon me, and pray do not
think it is by way of retaliation, that I think you are too general
in your remark that there is no belief in man. Don't think too
meanly of your fellow creatures : but I suppose you mean there is
no infallibility in man ; so far I agree with you, and I would not
have you trust to any man's opinion, unless it is approved by your
own judgment.
I am happy to hear that our dear little Nancy is well. Kiss
her for me. Her aunt has expected to hear from her ; and, by the
way, you ought either to write to your uncle, or to mention both
your uncle and aunt by name, instead of including them under the
general description of ail friends.
Your most affectionate uncle and friend,
28th April, 1783. P. V. S.
TO H  W  .
My dear Harry :
I thank you very sincerely for your two obliging letters, and I
* By the by) the Mneid is an Epic poem.

292 THE LIFE OF
beseech your pardon for my seeming inattention to the first. Your
politeness is such, that I shall not be able upon any account what
ever to resist your invitation any longer ; it would be cruel in me
to let Twickenham languish for want of my presence ; and you
may assure the withering plants and drooping fiowers, that I shall
soon come to enliven them. I never received a more delicate com
pliment in my life, than that in your last letter ; it would be a fine
subject for a little poem. Suppose you were to make an attempt —
perhaps the muses, the sacred nine, would inspire you. Twicken
ham has been the residence of the muses, you know, in Mr. Pope's
day, and who knows whether they would not adopt you as one of
their favorites ? Young gentlemen have a proper idea of the
beauties of the country in this charming season, but I wish they
would sometimes take a line or two from the authors they read,
the Latin ones especially. For instance, what think you of these
lines ? Nunc omnis ager, nunc omnis parturit arbos
Nunc frondent Sylvce, nunc formosissimus annus.
If you will find me two prettier lines, era mihi magnus Apollo. '
I hope you walk and jump at a great rate. Keep your
head up, extend your arms, open your chest, breathe free, speak
loud, (n. b. not in company,) &c, &c. In short, I expect great
things of you when I see you, so don't disappoint me. Prenez
Garde. Farewell, my dearest boy, and believe me always, whether
cross or in good humor, Your true friend,
1th May, 1783. p. y. S.
TO H  W;  .
London, 9th Sept., 1783.
My dear Harry :
I thank you for your letters, and am much pleased with your
quotation. I did not experience the violence of the storm where I
was, though it was severe enough there. After I left you, I fell in
with some friends at Mortlake, whom I accompanied into Kent,
where I staid till Monday. By the by, I returned very sick, in
consequence of eating too much fruit. Mind that, and take warn
ing when you get into Mr. F.'s garden.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 293
I am sorry, my dear Harry, that I am obliged so often to be the
bearer of bad news to you. Your sister Ellen I am under great
anxiety about. She had taken the measles, which left a great
weakness that was very threatening, and she was gone to try a
change of air when your uncle Gerard wrote to me, in July.
You must prepare your mind for the worst. God's will be done,
and we must submit. You have had severe trials ; so have I, my
dear boy, but time and patience will enable us to bear all our mis
fortunes, and as Providence is all-wise and all-good, we may be
sure that whatever happens is for our own welfare, though we
cannot perceive it at present. We shall all meet in a better world,
never to part again. Reflect upon these things, my dear Harry,
and be resigned.
Believe me always your most affectionate uncle and friend,
P. V. S.

TO H  W  .
Dear Harry:
I am always pleased when you put a question to me, either
upon a point of learning, or of propriety of conduct or principle,
and I am the more pleased when you give me your own sentiments.
I would wish to encourage you to use the utmost freedom with me
on these occasions, for though there is a certain degree of deference ,
due to those who are older, and have had more experience, yet I
would not have you take any opinion or tenet upon the mere ipse
dixit of any man whatsoever. I perfectly agree with you that
friendship is preferable to relationship ; so far as our regard and
esteem are concerned — these are seated in the heart, and are the
tribute due to merit alone. But there are external marks of re
spect, which we are bound to pay to those whom nature has con
nected us with, independent of their merit. But when we find
merit united with relationship, we owe a peculiar degree of atten
tion to the person answering this description. I will not apply
these principles to the case you mention, but leave you to think
once more of what I suggested, the propriety of which J am most
perfectly convinced of, but shall be ready to hear your sentiments
upon further reflection. " Do as you would be done by," is one of
the most admirable rules in the world. Suppose the case reversed,

294 THE LIFE OF
suppose your uncle Gerard in his letters to me, desired his love to
all friends without mentioning you ; would you not think yourself
a little slighted, and would he be justified in saying in his vindica
tion, what you say in yours ? I assure you, my friend Harry, I
would give judgment against him.
Do you know what I mean by ipse dixit ? It was an expres
sion made use of by the disciples of an ancient philosopher,* whom
they supposed infallible, and therefore whenever any of them had
a dispute upon any question of philosophy, or literature, the one
that could quote this philosopher's saying upon the point, would
cry out with exultation, ipse dixit — " He has said it," and this put
an end to the argument without further discussion. What a de
basement of the human mind were these students guilty of, and
what overbearing arrogance in the master ! I fancy this will
illustrate your idea in your preceding letter. — We call this, " pin
ning our faith upon another's sleeve."
I hope I do not puzzle or tire you with my remarks. I some
times use hard words on purpose to make you turn to your diction
ary, and thereby to enable you to enrich your language. To have
only one set of words and expressions upon all occasions, is like
always wearing the same clothes. A copia verborum resembles a
well-stored wardrobe, and an injudicious selection of words, not
adapted to the subject we are upon, to the particular occasion, or
to the person we address ourselves to, is as absurd as it would be
to go into Cheapside in a full dress at a Lord Mayor's show, and
into a drawing-room in a flopped hat and boots.
My respects to Mr. S. and the ladies, and love to Nancy.
Yours ever,
23d Feb., 1784. P. V. Schaack.

TO H  W
My dear Harry :

By the by, I wish you could contrive to get blacker ink, for
the sake of my poor eyes.
I approve much of your riding on horseback, and you will pre
sent my best compliments to Mr. Stretch, and request the favor of

* Ask Mr. Stretch what his name is.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 295
him to speak to the master of the stables and make the best bar
gain he can. Good temper in a horse is as necessary as it is agree
able in a companion, and horses as well as men have their vices.
You will shun both, but with this difference, that though you may
cross a vicious man, you ought not to cross a vicious horse. The
appearance and make of the animal, or even his gait, (provided
he is sure-footed, which is a sine qua non,) are also circumstances
not to be regarded — the graces may in this case be dispensed with.
Mind that you sit erect, en cavalier. When your Rosinante is
fixed upon, let me know, and give a description of him either by
your pen or pencil, for you are competent to both.
The old philosopher, I believe, was Aristotle, (or as he is called
by some low female character in a play, Harry Stottle,) but I am
really not positive. Whether it was he or not, it will be well for
you to look into your dictionary for an account, short as it is, of
him. He is often called the Stagyrite, from the name of the place
of his nativity. He was a man of amazing abilities, and one of
those whom Pope describes as holding a conspicuous place in the
temple of fame — I read it to you.
Ybu say you will think before you speak. Don't act upon the
reserve with me. It will be no disgrace to you to be set right by
your uncle and friend. Do not check yourself, but express your
thoughts freely. If they are exceptionable, you do yourself honor
to confess your errors. Humanum est errare et nescire. If you
never utter a sentiment for fear of being wrong, you will cramp
your faculties. A ship should have sails,* as well as ballast,f and
a compass.! I cannot at present descant upon this.
Your cousin is confined, as I suppose he has told you, by a cut
in his lip. I am sorry for the manner in which he got it ; and as
it is an invariable rule with me, to deal candidly with my young
friends, and to give praise and blame, as the one or the other is de
served, I have freely expressed my displeasure. This is inter nos.
A rap at the door. I am your truly affectionate uncle,
3d March, 1784. P. V. S.
* Imagination. -f Judgment, discretion. { Reason.

296 THE life of

TO H  W  .
My dear Harry :
I was extremely pleased with your letter, because the reason
you assign for not being at school punctually, is a good one. I
would not for the world you had given so bad a one as I feared
you would, and I ask your pardon for harboring such a suspicion :
but my anxiety that you should, upon all occasions, act up to the
principles of honor, candor and good sense, must be my apology.
I will do by you, as I would wish a friend to do by my son in my
absence, and that ybu will allow is a good rule. If I ever violate
this rule, I should be glad to have it pointed out, and you will find
me open to conviction.
Let me know how you are going on in your literary travels.
What stages have you put up at lately, and who were your com
pany, and what your bill of fare ? You must have made a num
ber of military acquaintances since you visited Troy. Tell me
which of them are your favorites ; or have you quitted the din of
arms to accompany the sage Ulysses and the affectionate Tele-
machus ? Qui mores hominum multorum,
Et urbes, viderunt. Hor.
Write me a long letter when you are in a humor for it, but not
till then. In the utmost haste I write, which I prefer to not writ
ing at all, that I may remove any suspicion you might entertain
about my opinion of your conduct, after you have so fully cleared
it up to the satisfaction of t
Your ever affectionate uncle,
30th July. Van.
TO H— — W  .

My dear Harry :
I promised to write to you, and I did not do it ; am I then guilty
of a breach of my engagement, or not ? I will submit it to your
self, after you have considered whether the following reasons have
any force or not. The motive for my making this promise, was to
give you an opportunity of taking leave of your young friends, who
are going out of the kingdom, and that you might be enabled in

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 297
your return, to pay a visit to your friends at Mortlake. Now it so
happened that neither of these objects could have been obtained,
had I written to you to come to town ; and that being the case,
and the design of your visit being frustrated, was not the visit
itself to be given up ? and if so, was there any obligation upon me
to write ? You should always distinguish between the essence of
a promise, and the form of it.
I shall go to Yorkshire on Monday, for a fortnight or more ; if
you want any thing in my absence, write to Mr. Dumont for it. I
cannot help once more expressing my approbation of your conduct
on Sunday last, which I have mentioned to your uncle Gerard,, who
I am sure will be highly pleased with it. The principles of honor,
and a spirit of independence, I wish to see
" Grow with your growth and strengthen with your strength."
That only, my dear Harry, can make you like a character,
which, of all others, you ought most to study to imitate. ,
I thank you for your observations on the heroes of Homer. He
is the noblest of poets, and has never been exceeded, though he
was the earliest. I was much pleased with the observation of a
Frenchman, who happened not to know any thing of this illustrious
bard till he was advanced in years : " Why," says he, " ever since
I read this poem, men appear to be twenty feet high." Did you
ever see these lines of Dryden ?
" Three poets in three distant ages born,
Greece, Italy and England did adorn :
The first in loftiness of thought surpass'd,
The next in majesty ; in both, the last.
The force of nature could no farther go,
To make a third, she joined the former two."
Homer, Virgil, Milton. Yours affectionately,
21st August. P- V. S.

TO H  W ¦

Beverley, Yorkshire, 1st Oct., 1784.
My dear Harry :
Your " school-letter," as you call it, has reached me in this re
mote place, and, as letters from my friends never fail of doing, has
38

298 THE LIFE of
given me great pleasure. In point of style, sentiment and orthog
raphy, it is unexceptionable. I wish the ink had been less pale.
The satisfaction you express in your present situation, affords me
real pleasure. Upon the whole, my dear Harry, I flatter myself
you are in the right track, and being so, I have no fear of your
quitting it. You are, however, just now at a time of life, when
you must lay a foundation for the character you are to sustain in
your manhood. It is a critical period, and calls for the exertion of
all the powers of your mind. It would hurt me beyond expression
to hear any thing unfavorable of you. My reason, and the know
ledge I have of the goodness of your heart and your regard for the
principles of honor, tells me there is no room for fear or doubt ;
at the same time, my anxiety for your happiness, and my determi
nation to discharge with fidelity the trust reposed in me, with res
pect to you, will not allow me to be silent. You do not mention
our dear Nancy, who I hope continues well and happy. Give
my tenderest remembrance to her. She, too, has a great share in
my anxiety, but not so much as you, because if you answer the
expectations of your friends, she will have the benefit of your at
tainments, and I shall resign my trust to you, or at least admit you
to a participation of it, with great pleasure.
A melancholy event happened here yesterday morning. The only
son of Mrs. Burton died after a very few days' illness. I dined in
company with him that day se'nnight, at a club where he was presi
dent, when he was in perfect health and spirits. Next Tuesday
was the day fixed for his marriage with an amiable young lady.
What a transitory life this is, and how precarious all our enjoy
ments, and uncertain all our prospects !
Yours, affectionately, P. V. Schaack.
TO H  W  .
Dear Harry :
You say you will be in town the 16th. Be it so. I shall always
be happy to see you, at the same time I perceive that it makes your
vacation of a longer duration than I could wish; but this you can't
help ; and it makes your stay longer in London, also, than you can,
I fancy, make agreeable or useful to yourself; this we will endeavor

peter van schaack. 299
to help. I could wish you to bring some books, Virgil one of them,
that we may travel over the ground you have lately, I hope, made
yourself master of. Of that sweet poet we may say, decies repetita
placebit. Pope's Homer will afford you fine relaxation, when your
mind is wearied with intense application. Your French must also
be kept clear from rust.
You and I will be near neighbors, which I hope will be as
agreeable to you as it most undoubtedly is to me. I shall wish for
some serious conversation with you, and all I wish and pray of
you, is to have attention. At the same time, don't apprehend that
I mean to make your vacation unpleasant or laborious to you. I
feel, my dear Harry, the importance of the trust reposed in me with
respect to you, and I wish to discharge it with fidelity and honor ;
with a sacred regard to the memory of the deceased, and with an
affectionate attention to your welfare, happiness and advancement
in life ! ^We shall not long be together, and I wish to have it in
my power to give a satisfactory account of you to your friends in
America, to your uncle Gerard particularly. I shall neither ex
aggerate nor extenuate, but speak just as I think of you. This
has been my maxim with respect to all the young gentlemen whom
I have been desired to pay attention to, or concerning whom I have
been desired to write my sentiments. If you cultivate the talents
nature has bestowed upon you, if you cherish the good qualities
which you inherit from one of the most amiable of men, be assured
you will get through life with honor and reputation ; in short, all
depends on yourself. Excuse me for being so grave. I cannot
help it. As our separation approaches, I grow more and more
anxious. How is Nancy ? My tenderest love to the dear girl. Kiss her
for me. If you have any money left, give it to her ; if not, desire
Mrs. Pomeroy to give her a guinea, which she may charge in the
account, or I will repay it. I propose paying a visit to Mr. F.,
upon whom pray call with my compliments. Present my compli
ments also to Mr. Stretch and the ladies.
I am your affectionate uncle — Bieu vous ait en sa sainte garde !
44 Frith-sL, 13th Bee P. V. S.

300

THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER XIV

Political distinctions involved in the Revolution, had for sev
eral years interrupted Mr. Van Schaack's intercourse with many of
his early friends. His once bosom companions, John Jay, Egbert
Benson, Theodore Sedgwick and Gouverneur Morris, and most of
his associates in College and at the Bar, were prominent and un
compromising whigs. The civil war, and his peculiar sentiments
with respect to it, had placed him in a position with regard to
these friends, which did but ill accord with the real sentiments of
personal esteem and friendship which they entertained for each
other. In fact, the line which had separated them was more in
appearance than in reality, if we regard the motives whch actua
ted them all, and the object which he equally with them had in
view. That object was identical — the good of their country ; —
although they had greatly differed as to the best means for pursuing
it. But although their usual intercourse had been thus interrupted
by his exile, and the arbitrary distinctions of a civil war, their
attachments were based upon principles too pure and immutable to
be permanently disturbed ; and it was evident, that upon a fit
occasion these kindred spirits would reunite the relaxed bonds of
personal regard and friendship. >
In the summer of 1782, Mr. Jay, who, for two and a half years
previous had been residing in a public capacity at Madrid, arrived
at Paris, as one of the five Commissioners appointed by Congress
to negotiate a Peace with similar Commissioners on the part of
Great Britain. Mr. Van Schaack, as has been seen, was still re
siding in London at this date, and he embraced the occasion to
renew a correspondence with his old friend.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 301
TO JOHN JAY.
London, 11th August, 1782,
(Rathbone-place,) No. 20 Charlotte-street.
Dear Sir :
Though I have taken up my pen to write to you, I own I hardly
know what to say : embarrassed as I am by a consideration of the
strange predicament we stand in to each other, compared with our
connection in earlier life. I write therefore without any precise
object, trusting to what chance (if any thing it should) may pro
duce from it. One thing, however, I must premise, which is, that I
have no design of making this introductory to any improper request.
Pride, or whatever it may be called, will restrain me from any
application that might expose me to the mortification of a refusal ;
and I am not so weak as to attempt to prevail, in any matter in
consistent with your duty and in your sense of it. The impressions
of my youth are not easily effaced ; and the new scenes I have
passed through have not altered my old notions of right and wrong.
Ccdum non animum. Whether what has passed has altered your
opinion of me as a man, I own, is a question I could wish to have
resolved. The artificial relations introduced by a state of society,
may vary, or be dissolved by events and external circumstances ;
but there are others which nothing but deviation from moral
rectitude can, I think, annihilate.
I congratulate you on the increase of your family, and sincerely
wish you and Mrs. Jay every domestic happiness.
I am, dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Paris, lllh Sept., 1782.
Dear Sir :
Dr. Franklin sent me this morning your letter of 11th August
last. I thank you for it. Aptitude to change in any thing never
made a part of my disposition, and, I hope,' makes no part of my
character. In the course of the present troubles I have adhered to
certain fixed principles, and faithfully obeyed their dictates, with-

302 the life of
out regarding the consequences of such conduct to my friends, my
family, or myself; all of whom, however dreadful the thought, I
have ever been ready to sacrifice, if necessary, to the public ob
jects in contest.
Believe me, my heart has nevertheless been, on more than one
occasion, afflicted by the execution of what I thought, and still
think, was my duty. I felt very sensibly for you and for others;
"but as society can regard only the political propriety of men's con
duct, and not the moral propriety of their motives to it, I could
only lament your unavoidably becoming classed with many whose
morality was convenience, and whose politics changed with the
aspect of public affairs.
My regard for you, as a .good old friend, continued notwith
standing. God knows, that inclination never had a share in any
proceedings of mine against you ; from such " thorns no man could
expect to gather grapes ;" and the only consolation that can grow
in their unkindly shade, is a consciousness of doing one's duty,
and the reflection that as, on the one hand, I have uniformly pre
ferred the public weal to my friends and connections ; so on the
other, I have never been urged by private resentment to injure a
single individual.
Your judgment, and consequently your conscience, differed
from mine on a very important question ; but though as an inde
pendent American, I considered all who were not for us, and you
among the rest, as against us ; yet be assured that John Jay did
not cease to be a friend to Peter Van Schaack.
No one can serve two masters : either Britain was right and
America wrong ; or America was right and Britain wrong. They
who thought Britain right were bound to support her ; and Amer
ica had a just claim to the services of those who approved her
cause. Hence it became our duty to take one side or the other ;
and no man is to be blamed for preferring the one which his reason
recommended as the most just and virtuous.
Several of our countrymen, indeed, left and took arms against
us, not from any such principles, but from the most dishonorable
of human motives. Their conduct has been of a piece with their
inducements, for they have far outstripped savages in perfidy and
cruelty. Against these men, every American must set his face and

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 303
steel his heart. There are others of them, though not many, who,
I believe, opposed us because they thought they could not con
scientiously go with us. To such of these as have behaved with
humanity, I wish every species of prosperity that may consist with
the good of my country.
You see how naturally I slide into the habit of writing as freely
as I used to speak to you. Ah! my friend, if ever I see New-
York again, I expect to meet with "the shade of many a departed
joy." My heart bleeds to think of it
How is your health ? Where and how are your children. ?
Whenever, as a private friend, it may be in my power to do good
to either, tell me. While I have a loaf, you and they may freely
partake of it. Don't let this idea hurt you. If your circumstances
are easy, I rejoice ; if not, let me take off their rougher edges.
Mrs. Jay is obliged by your remembrance, and presents you
her compliments. The health of us both is but delicate. Our
little girl has been very ill, but is now well. My best wishes al
ways attend you, and be assured that, notwithstanding any politi
cal changes, I remain, dear Peter,
Your affectionate friend and servant, John Jay.
TO JOHN JAY. London, 15lh Oct., 1782.
Dear Sir:
I will not attempt to describe my feelings upon the perusal of
your very friendly letter. I consider it as a perfect picture, in
which I can trace every well known feature of your character.
Your unreserved commemoration of our old friendship, and assu
rance of its continuance ; your kind inquiries into the situation of
me and my children, and generous offers with respect to both them
and myself; and your pathetic allusion to the melancholy scenes
you will meet upon your return to New- York, melted my heart ;
and every idea of party distinction or political competition vanish
ed in an instant !
The line you have drawn between your political character and
your private friendships is so stronglymarked, and will be so strict-

304 THE LIFE OF
ly attended to by me, that I hope our correspondence will not end
here. Be assured, that were I arraigned at the bar, and you my
judge, I should expect to stand or fall only by the merits of my
cause. With respect to the ,great contest, in which, unfortunately, I
differed from others of my valuable friends as well as yourself, I can
say, with the most sacred regard to truth, I was actuated by no
motive unfriendly to my country, nor by any consideration of a
personal, or private nature. Men's hearts are not always known,
even to themselves ; but, believe me, that I spared no pains in ex
amining into all the secret recesses of mine. I can say, too, that
my wishes were to have gone with you. The very appearance
(and in my view of things it was appearance only) of taking part
against my country, distressed me in the extreme. Could it be for
the sake of Great Britain that I could wish to sacrifice the welfare
of my native country ? My attachment to her (great indeed as it
was) was founded in the relation she stood in to America, and the
happiness which I conceived America derived from it : nor did it
appear to me, from any thing that had happened, that the connec
tion was dissolved. Upon the whole, as even in a doubtful case, I
would rather be the patient sufferer, than run the risk of being the
active aggressor ; and as I should rather be even a figure for the
hand of scorn to point its slow unmoving finger at, than to destroy
the peace of my own mind ; I concluded, rather than to support a
cause I could not approve, to bear every distress that might result
from the part I took ; and if America is happier for the revolu
tion, I declare solemnly that I shall rejoice that the side I was on
was the unsuccessful one. You, my dear sir, will excuse my
saying thus much on a subject so interesting to all that is dear
to me in life. My heart warms whenever our country ( I must
call it my country) is the subject, and in my separation from it, " I
have dragged at each remove a lengthening chain."
I am sorry that the health of you and Mrs. Jay should be but
indifferent ; and you have my most cordial wish that you may both
again enjoy this invaluable blessing. Perhaps it would sound equiv
ocally were I to express a wish that you would not attend so much
to public business, but remember what Horace says of a wise and
good man : " Ultra quam satis est, virtutem si petat ipsam." Your

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 305
horse I hope is your only physician ; and as to an apothecary, I
hope you will not require even an ass. My health, which you
kindly inquire .after, was never better, saving the complaint in my
sight, which, however, gives me no pain. The one eye is quite
useless, and two years ago I got an attack upon the other ; at that
period, indeed, my friend, I wanted consolation ; but I bless God
I found resources in my mind, which very soon prepared me with
resignation for the worst.
As to my circumstances, my dear sir, they are quite easy ; ren
dered so by the provision my good father-in-law made for my
children : were they otherwise, I know no man who could sooner
induce me to invade my maxim against incurring pecuniary obli
gations than yourself, for between the professions and actions of
my friend John Jay, I never yet have known one instance of a
variance. My spirits, too, are good ; and I have a good circle of
acquaintances, not only in town, but in the pleasant villages in its
neighborhood, where I frequently walk ten or twelve miles before
dinner. Upon the whole, I believe few persons enjoy more social
and convivial hours than I do ; and though I do not So often par
take of the "feast of reason and the flow of soul," as I did at New-
York, yet I ought rather to be thankful for my situation than to
repine at my share of the public calamity, which has involved so
many families in ruin.
My children (I acknowledge it gratefully) have been permitted
to remain at Kinderhook ; which, by the by, is become the Athens
of the county of Albany. Harry is represented to me as a lively
boy, and has been examined and approved at Yale College. I
hope the poor fellow will not be reproached with the malignity of
his father ; on my part, I assure you I have often cautioned my
friends to take care not to let him imbibe any political prejudices,
on account of any ill usage he might possibly suppose I had receiv
ed. I would not let him come to England, because I mean he
should never leave America. If he has an American education,
with a good share of the weighty bullion of American sense, I shall
not regret his being unacquainted with the refinements of the old
world. Can you forgive me for dwelling so long on my private con
cerns ? Your kind inquiries convince me you can. What a' great
39

306 THE LIFE OF
theatre are you acting upon, and what a conspicuous part do you
sustain! What a fund of information must you have collected;
and, conscious of the rectitude of your measures, what must be
your feelings upon the consummation ! I have always considered
you as one of the most formidable enemies of this country, but
since what has happened, has happened, there is no man to whom
I more cordially wish the glory of the achievement.
My respectful compliments to Mrs. Jay, and believe me, dear sir,
Your affectionate friend and sincere well wisher,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO JOHN JAY.
London, 30th May, 1783,
No. 23 Church-street, Soho.
Dear Sir :
I did myself the pleasure of writing to you very soon after the
receipt of your obliging favor of the 17th Sept, and although I can
well account for your silence even if you have received my letter,
yet as it is possible it may have miscarried,' in which case my con
duct must have appeared to you in a light I would not by any
means wish, I will claim your indulgence once more. I own I
should be much flattered with a few lines from you. Fame says
you are to be the ambassador at this court, and this has induced ¦
me to suspend a jaunt I have determined to take to Paris, by the
way of Holland. ' I would not on any account miss seeing you,
though I am aware that your public station will exclude me from
the habits of any sort of familiar intercourse. Don't let it lessen ,
me in your opinion, by creating any suspicion of my sincerity, when
I assure you, as I most solemnly do, that I rejoice from the bottom
of my heart, upon the establishment of peace, which I did, even
before I knew the terms, and would have done, had they been such
as forever to exclude me from a return to my native country,
ardently as I pant after it.
1 have a letter from my brother of the 16th April. Our old
friend Benson was then at New-York, upon a requisition to Sir
Guy Carleton, to contract his lines to the island of New-York. I
fear this business will create some contention. God forbid ! Every
American, of whatever description, must wish to prevent any ill

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 307
blood, and as much as possible to cultivate a "spirit of concilia
tion." If I know my own heart, this would have been my senti
ment had the event of the war been the reverse of what it is.
Benson has sent me assurances of the continuance of his old
friendship, and advises me to remain where I am some time
longer. This I own does not accord with my sentiments, and if it
were not for other considerations, — that of my eyes particularly,
which is become a very serious one, and I fear will be still more
so,— I would have gone over immediately to have stood the first
shock. I have endeavored to form a just estimate of life, and of
all it contains, and if my endeavors have not been unsuccessful, be
assured I am not only more of a philosopher, but a better man
• than ever you knew me. Pardon my presumption.
I beg my respectful compliments to Mrs. Jay, and, with my
best wishes for you, her and your little one,
Believe me affectionately yours,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK. Passy, l&th June, 1783.
Dear Sir :
I have received your favor of the 30th ult. Your affectionate
answer to my letter of the 17th Sept. last, reached me about a ,
month after its date. The prospect I then and long afterwards
had of being able to visit England, (where the death of a relation
gave me some private business to transact,) induced me from time
, to time to postpone writing to you. It, so happened, however, that
my continuing at Paris remained expedient, and whether and when
I shall see London, is still doubtful.
The report you have heard respecting my future destination, is
not justified by any intelligence I have of the designs of Congress
on that subject, and therefore the jaunt you have in contemplation
should not be suspended on that account. I assure you frankly
and sincerely, tha,t it will always give me pleasure to see you.
Our meeting shall be that of old friends, and as our intercourse in
that capacity may and will be innocent, I shall neither impose upon
myself, nor upon you, any restraints which rectitude and integrity
will dispense with. To America I shall continue a faithful servant,

¦»

308 THELIFEOF
and to you a faithful friend. Should these characters clash, I shall, ,
as heretofore, prefer the former ; but where and while they do not,
let us, as in the days of our youth, indulge the effusions of friend
ship, without reserve and without disguise.
Ben; on is an honest man and loves you. It grieved him to act
a part that wounded you. I approve the advice he gave you— it
exactly corresponds with my own sentiments.
The disorder in your eyes afflicts me. It merits, and I hope
will engage your greatest care and attention. At all events be
resigned, and remember that "many will rejoice in the end, for the
days wherein they have seen adversity."
Mrs. Jay joins me in presenting to you our best wishes.
I am, dear Peter, your affectionate friend, John Jay.
TO JOHN JAY. London, 5th August, 1783.
Dear Sir :
• I received your favor of the 16th June in due time, and instantly
determined to set out for Paris, making that my first object, but a
friend prevailed on me from time to time to postpone it, which for
the sake of his, company I did, as he is not only a most pleasing
companion, but intimately acqainted with the habits as well as the
language of France. The day was fixed and our route agreed
upon, by the way of Dieppe, Rouen, &c, when a number of my
relations and friends from New-York arrived, and I found myself
so circumstanced, that I could not leave England without great
inconvenience, nor remain in it without chagrin and disappointment.
I will not trouble you with the dilemma I was in, but if chance
should make you acquainted with my friend Doctor (John M'Na-
mara) Hayes, which I own I wish, as well on account of his worth
as a man, as of his eminence in his profession, he will explain it
to you. Since I received your favor of the 16th June, I have heard
many particulars about you and Mrs. Jay, from Mr. and Mrs. Fitch
and Mrs. Grant, and am happy to be informed that the air of Passy
has been of benefit to your health. Mrs. Jay has I hope by this
time increased your domestic happiness. I wish you and she could

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 309
be prevailed on to turn your thoughts to this country, which I am
persuaded, would be of the utmost service to you both. I have
¦ seen wonders wrought here in a variety of cases of delicate consti
tutions, and am myself an instance of the goodness of the air and
climate of England. Let me entreat you to think of it. I still en
tertain hopes, that my information respecting your future destina
tion, though premature, will be verified by the event, but to an
swer the great purpose of health, a jaunt in a private way would
be most eligible. Let me have the pleasure of meeting you at Do
ver, or in some other part of England, before the autumnal rains
set in. The footing you have placed our meeting upon, is perfectly
agreeable to me, and I would not wish to make any alteration in
the terms you mention ; and the rather because I trust there will,
in future, be no incompatibility between your public character and
private feelings, as they respect me. I freely declare to you what
T -profess in all companies, that I consider myself a citizen of the
United States, dejure at least, whether I become so de facto or not.
In this I feel no sense of humiliation, and I conceive I am war
ranted in the declaration by established principles, and a perfect
consistency of character. I would not obtain my most favorite ob
ject by a dishonorable concession, but I will not be restrained by
false shame, or mean pride, from avowing my principles and opin
ions. The happiness of America was not nearer my heart in its
old state than it is in the new. I cannot help the defects of my
understanding, but I can subdue the errors of my heart, in which
revenge never had a place. A great work has been achieved, but
much yet remains to be done, in order to make it a public blessing,
at least in our day. I am almost tempted to enter into particulars, ;
but I fear it might appear improper, and yet could I have seen
you, I could have ventured to suggest my ideas, such as they are, I
and this with the less embarrassment, because I have no sinister !
object or selfish inducement to bias me. Not even you, my friend,
can view the public happiness of our country, more abstracted
from partial considerations than I do.
Should you be prevented from coming to England, and I can
be of any service to you in your private concerns, freely command >
me. I thank you for your short letter of the 26th July, and for

310 THE LIFE OF
the trouble you took in sending me a copy of the preceding one,
to which I had replied before I received your last, though my let
ter was not sent. Be pleased to present my respectful compli
ments and best regards to Mrs. Jay, and believe me, dear sir,
Your sincere friend, Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK. Passy, 11th August, 1783.
Dear Sir :
I had the pleasure last evening of receiving your letter of the
5th instant. Why did you leave it to chance to bring me ac
quainted with your friend ? Certain pros and cons on points of
delicacy, I suppose. If he comes to Paris, we shall probably see
each other. Whatever may have been the dilemma which post
poned your jaunt, I regret it. It is probable, nevertheless, that we
shall meet before winter ; for as soon as business shall cease to
confine me here, I mean to go to Bath and try the effect of the
waters. When you again see Mr. and Mrs. Fitch and Mrs. Grant,
be pleased to present Mrs. Jay's and my compliments to them. I
have asked leave to become a private citizen, and to return to
America next summer. Various considerations render this proper
— my conduct would not otherwise be consistent.
The discussions of questions de jure require dispassionate and
calm reflection, and that season must arrive before speculative
principles can acquire sufficient force to produce fruit de facto.
Such is the order of nature, and we must take it as it is. There
is a tide in all human affairs, and while it runs too hard against us
to be stemmed, it would be imprudent to weigh anchor. I suspect,
however, that many will find this tide to be as lone in passing, as
the traveller in the fable found the river ; but in my opinion that
ought not to be the case of any except the faithless and the cruel.
I am for receiving all who do not come under either of those
descriptions, and for the absolute exclusion of all who do. Thus
you have very candidly and explicitly my opinion on a very im
portant and interesting subject.
I think with you that America has much yet to do, before her
domestic and foreign affairs will assume a settled, uniform aspect;

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 311
but that cannot be immediately accomplished — even natural causes
oppose it. The waters will continue agitated for some time after
the storm which raised them has subsided. All, however, will go
well ; time will give temper, and experience wisdom. Our soil is
new and fertile ; and we must neither be surprised to see some tares
among our wheat, nor some errors in our counsels. While the
people continue virtuous and well informed, de republica nil despe-
randum. We will talk these matters over one of these days more at
large. Mrs. Jay presents you her compliments. I thank you for
your obliging offer of service, and with the best wishes for your
happiness, I remain, dear sir, Your friend and servant, John Jay.
TO JOHN JAY.
London, 12th September, 1783.
Dear Sir :
I sincerely congratulate you and Mrs. Jay on the "increase of
your family, and hope that by this time she is perfectly recovered.
Your letters I forwarded by the packet, and shall avail myself of a
private opportunity of mentioning the circumstance to some of my
friends, if any should offer soon. Had I received your letters two
days sooner, they had probably by this time been near New-York.
I thank you for what you say of my friend Doctor Hayes, and
you justly ascribe my not giving him a letter of introduction to
motives of delicacy. I still feel some restraints and embarrass
ments with respect to you, which a personal interview would
enable me to get over, and this was a principal motive to my
intended journey to Paris. Believe me, I only want to be thor
oughly understood, and then I am willing to submit my conduct
and principles to any tribunal.
I am extremely happy in the thought of seeing you in England.
I am confident Bath will be of service to you, but I own I wish
you to come early enough to enjoy a little of the free air of this
fine season. Exercise on horseback and relaxation of mind will
do every thing for you. I was assured through Mr. Oswald that
you would be here this month, and the signing of the definitive

312 THE LIFE OF
treaty makes me hope that all obstacles are now removed to your
leaving Paris. I was in hopes this treaty would liave contained
some explanations, calculated to meet and to obviate certain doubts
which have been raised in America, with respect to the true con
struction of the 5th and 6th of the provisional articles ; but I am
told there is nothing contained in it upon this subject. I am willing
to think that the omission may be for good reasons, and that such
explanations may be more efficacious when spontaneously urged
by the commissioners, than if stipulated by treaty. The former is
most ardently wished for by my friends, and I trust that it cannot
be improper that I hint this, though I hope it is unnecessary. The
terms you mention are comprehensive, and to your exceptions
humanity and honor cannot object.
You doubtless hear and know every thing that is going on in
the different States, in ours particularly. My last accounts, I own,
are not so threatening as those of many others. I find that Gov.
C. is acting with his usual spirit, and Benson with his usual cool
ness ar^d steadiness, with regard to the treaty and the irregularity
of some associations of some of the towns. Mr. Apthorpe, who
was indicted last winter, went up from New-York to take his triah
at Albany, and I am assured that he was acquitted for want* of '
prosecution, his case being deemed within the oblivion of the
6th article. If this is true, it is a case in point for me and my
brothers. Though I would wish, for many reasons, that you should
hold a public station, yet I own your request to return to a
private station, in the prime of life, in the vigor of abilities, and
with the field of ambition open to you, reflects great lustre on your
character. Since writing the above, Mr. H. White is arrived here, by
whom I have letters of a very serious complexion. At a court of
Oyer and Terminer held at Poughkeepsie, a man banished by the
act of 1778, was indicted, tried and convicted, of misprision of
treason. It seems to me he was ill-advised not to have put in a
special plea, which would have brought the point of law of the
construction of the 6th article before the court. But I forbear
troubling you with these matters, which, however, concern me very
nearly, and in spite of my optimism, alarm me a good deal.

• PET'ER VAN SCHAACK. 313
I beg my "respectful compliments to Mrs. Jay, and best wishes
for your and her happiness, as well as that of your little ones.
I am your friend and most ob't servant, P. V. Schaack.
Mr. Jay carried into effect the intention expressed in the pre
ceding letter, of visiting England. He arrived in London on the
14th of October, 1783, and immediately addressed a note to Mr.
Van Schaack, who had just returned from an excursion into the
country. We find the following note in his diary — " We met with
all the cordiality of old friends, who had long been absent, with
out the least retrospect to the cause of that absence."

40

314 THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER XV.
During his exile, Mr. Van Schaack made his brother Henry his
principal American correspondent. For the first two or three years
after his arrival in England, however, and until a free communica
tion was opened, this correspondence was probably limited, and
but few of his letters during that period have been recovered.
From those which were preserved, selections have been made for
this work, which will not only assist in illustrating his character,
but will be found creditable to him as literary productions, and
interesting for the political and other information which many of
them contain.
It will be proper here to correct an impression which the reader
may have imbibed from the circumstance that so many of Mr. Van
Schaack's manuscripts have been preserved, that he had contempla
ted a biography. Such was not the fact. He entertained very
humble views of himself, and when the author mentioned the
subject of " a Life," some years before his decease, it was received
with such evident disfavor, that he forbore to press it. Precision
in all things was one of his characteristics. But it was on account
of his children, in whom his affections were centered, that he took
pains, during the Revolution, to leave behind him evidence that
his political course was the result of principle, and was governed
by integrity.* TO DAVID VAN SCHAACK. London, 16th Jan'y, 1782.
My dear Brother :
My letters hitherto have been chiefly to our brother Harry, and
* There is no doubt but many interesting and valuable manuscripts have
been lost. Mr. Van Schaack's early blindness, his exile, the youthful age of
his children by the first Mrs. Van Schaack on his return from England, and

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 315
I am glad to find that you have made a generous allowance on the
score of my particular situation, for my not writing to you sepa
rately. However, for the future I must entreat the favdr of a
correspondence with you, which I could wish to confine only to
private and family subjects, on which Harry has not been so cir
cumstantial as my anxiety about them requires. I was in great
hopes that J. or C. would have favored me with a letter relative to
my children. By the one you wrote to me from Goshen, I am
sure you know perfectly well the particulars which must interest
the solicitude of a parent, upon these tender subjects. The account
you gave me of Harry, as you had it from C, was equally interest
ing and pleasing. You will easily imagine that I am exceedingly
anxious about him, and the progress he makes in learning. Be
fore now he must have unfolded the particular bias of his genius,
and I could wish to know what it is he is most fond of, and,
as the consequence of it, in what branch he makes the greatest
proficiency. The disposition of his heart is a matter of still greater import
ance, and though I can hardly expect to hear any actions of his
which deserve to be recorded in the annals of America, yet I should
hope there are many particulars which might be mentioned of him, ,
that would engage the attention of a parent. At this great dis
tance from him, I cannot be particular, but I could wish that pains
might be taken to find out what will probably be his character,
both as to understanding and disposition. This discovered, will
point out the course of reading and study, which ought most par
ticularly to be adopted for him. If he has any peculiar fondness
for any one branch of learning in preference to the rest, a greater
proportion of his time and attention should be employed in that.
If he discovers any particular virtues, books which describe them
in the most advantageous manner shoujd be put into his hands ; so

the early death of all but one, who was absent ; the ignorance of hi6 children
by the second Mrs. Van Schaack, of the existence of many of these papers,
*nd his disinclination to enter into a particular discussion of matters, which
were calculated to call up a long train of intervening scenes of domestic af
fliction and personal trial — sufficiently explain how this could have happen
ed ; and it is perhaps surprising, under all the circumstances, that so much
should have escaped destruction.

316 THE LIFE OF
if he has any particular propensities which are wrong, he should
be furnished with some of the best authors upon morality and ethics,
to assist him in overcoming his failings. I own I should be best
pleased to hear that his reading was chiefly upon subjects of mo
rality, which are calculated to display the beauties of virtue, and
the deformities of vice ; and as he advances in years, I would rather
have him well acquainted with Tully's Offices, and other books
which treat of man as a moral agent, and of the principles of reli
gious and moral obligation, than with Euclid's Elements, or the
writers upon natural philosophy.
Permit me to quote a passage upon this point from an elegant
author. "The knowledge of external nature, and of the sciences
which that knowledge requires or includes, is not the great or the
frequent business of the human mind. Whether we provide for
action or conversation, whether we wish to be useful or pleasing,
the first requisite is the religious and moral knowledge of right and
wrong ; the next, is our acquaintance with the history of mankind,
and with those examples which may be said to embody truth, and
prove by events the reasonableness of opinions. Prudence and
justice are virtues and excellences of all times, and all places. We
are perpetually moralists, but we are geometricians only by chance.
Our intercourse with intellectual nature is necessary ; our specula
tions upon matter are voluntary and at leisure. Physical knowledge
is of such rare emergence, that one man may know another half his
life without being able to estimate his skill in hydrostatics or astron
omy, but his moral or prudential character immediately appears.
Those authors, therefore, are to be read at schools, that supply
most axioms of prudence, most principles of moral truth, and most
materials for conversation, and these purposes are best served by
poefo, orators, and historians."
I should hope, that by this time his tutor has tried his invention
a little, at composition upon subjects suited to his years. Letter-
writing will, I am confident, prove the easiest method of teaching
him to collect and arrange his thoughts, and to express them with
propriety. January 30th. I had written the above when your agreeable
favor by the Robust reached me. It is equally remarkable as it is
pleasing, that you have therein anticipated my wishes, by confin*

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 317
ing yourself to private subjects. You have most kindly as well as
judiciously placed yourself in my situation, and then asked, what
subjects can be most interesting to my brother in that situation ?
This is what friends owe to one another, and this alone can make
correspondences reciprocally useful and pleasing. Were I to con
sider only what affects myself, and expect your attention to that
only, without considering what you might wish to know from me,
surely this would be partial and selfish. I hope you will proceed
in the way you have begun, and be very minute not only about
the children, but all our Kinderhook friends. They all have a
share in my tender remembrance in succession, but as they are too
numerous to mention them all, I will not discriminate any, but
leave it to yourself to take your own method. This long separa
tion is a severe trial upon me, but frequent communications re
specting those I love so tenderly, would greatly alleviate my dis
tress. Indeed, all circumstances considered, I ought not to repine.
I have all the necessaries and comforts of life, nor is my mind har
assed by the artificial wants of ambition or avarice. I have as
much of real social happiness, I verily believe, as any one person.
In a circle of friends sufficiently extensive, I am received with a
cordial welcome, and were I inclined to enlarge the circle, 1 may
say, without vanity, that I should not find it difficult ; nor have I
been without the heartfelt pleasure, of sometimes doing service to
the friends, who have been most kind to me. This, indeed, is the
favorable side of my situation — as to the rest, I will say nothing,
but endeavor to bear my troubles with resignation. To acquire a
just estimate of the world, and of what is necessary to constitute
the happiness of a rational being, is the great object of my serious
reflections, though my practice, I am conscious, falls short of it.
Excuse my saying so much of myself, and give me an opportunity
of finding the same fault with you, and you will make me happy.
You and Harry have never mentioned my friend Dyckman,
which greatly astonishes me. Your friends are all mine, be as
sured ; and shall not the man who showed me the kindest atten
tion, while I was threatened with one of the most melancholy sit
uations in life, be regarded by my brothers ? My acquaintance is
not confined, and is promiscuous ; but merit only, whether in rags
or brocade, shall have my esteem.

318 THE LIFE OF
Pray make my affectionate regards to my mother whenever
you write, and do send her out some little token of my remem
brance, for which Mr. Walton will advance you the money. Your
own discretion will guide you on this occasion, as to the thing and
the value. " The gift is small, but love is all," as the poesy says.

TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK. London, 11th July, 1782.
My dear Brother :
As there is a possibility of overtaking the packet, I cannot sup
press my wish to give you a line upon this momentous occasion.
The letters by this mail will, I fancy, be very heterogeneous. On
Wednesday, 2d, I wrote you how decisively Mr. Fox had spoken
upon the resolution of the cabinet to acknowledge unlimited in
dependence — the next day he declared his determination to resign.
The sanguine people immediately advanced that this was occa
sioned by his having asserted an untruth, and that he had been
overruled upon the point of independence, which Lord Shelburne
was determined not to recognize. The absurdity of this struck me,
but such confident assertions as I heard almost staggered my rea
son, and I just stated (the 5th) what were the various conjectures
with respect to the true cause of the division in the cabinet, which
it is now evident was about places and not measures.
The declaration of General Conway in the House of Commons,
the day before yesterday, and of the Duke of Richmond and the
Premier in the Upper House, yesterday, perfectly settles the matter,
and removes all sort of suspense. The United States are now in
dependent, and from the bottom of my heart I rejoice at it ; but
this joy you will easily suppose is not unmingled with distress.
Indeed, the sufferings of the unhappy loyalists very much affect
me. But what is there in life but a choice of evils, and was not
the circle of misery daily extending itself ? These unfortunate men
have been in pursuit of a vain shadow. They have been contend
ing for a government which had no existence, and have sacrificed
their lives and fortunes to an object merely ideal. I wish liberality
may prevail in the councils of our countrymen, and I doubt not but
the loyalists would know how to make the proper return for it.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 319
It will be a bitter pill to some no doubt, but what country has been
without revolutions and civil wars ? It is a call for fortitude and
resignation, and necessity will reconcile people to it. " I feel like
a man, but I will endure like a man," should be the maxim upon
these and other trying occasions in life.
July 12th. Interrupted very agreeably I was yesterday, by
yours of the 12th and 16th June. The papers were charged six
teen shillings postage, and therefore not taken. I have however
got some, and have pored over those from without till I am almost
blind. Good sense and manly firmness and consistency mark the
councils of America. From some hints of the measures on this
side, which appear in those papers, I own I am disappointed. I
expected more enlarged notions would have prevailed. It is my
practice to reason upon the probability of events upon every
change, and in the remarkable Mva of the coming in of the new
administration, (25th March,) I endeavored to chalk out to myself
that line which I thought they would pursue with regard to Amer
ica, that is, what in my poor opinion ought to be pursued, to have
the blessed effect of peace. In recurring to it, (for I reduce my
speculations to writing,) and comparing it with what has leaked
out, I own I am disappointed. Be assured, they must and will
come to unqualified measures ; they cannot retreat, and America
will have every thing with regard to sovereignty and indepen
dence. Do not, I beseech you, my dear brother, be misled by such sort
of letters as I find in the papers. They are delusive, and conceived
in error and a sanguine (though in some cases, I doubt not, an
honest) zeal. The die is cast, be assured. Indeed, in my mind it
has been long since. Reason for yourself. I am surprised at S — 's
scruples. No man can pay more veneration than I do, to an hon
est though mistaken conscience ; but we should not subtilize our
selves out of our senses. Assure yourself that my principles of
right and wrong remain unaltered, and I hope more firmly fixed
than ever, nor has the general stream of licentiousness and immo
rality I hope carried me down with it. No selfish, no sinister views
influence my reasonings, and therefore I owe them some respect,
considering the unwearied pains I take to see things just as they are.
Excuse my saying so much, of myself, but I cannot avoid it, as I
have, I believe, since I came to England held a language rather

320 THE LIFE OF
different from the general current. I can safely say that " had I
served my God" as faithfully as in this instance I have served the
cause of truth, I should not be afraid of the inevitable hour.
,. I wish I could send you the papers, but they are too expensive.
Lord Shelburne says that he has had the most flattering assurances,
that his former sentiments respecting America are no objection to
a negotiation with him. General Conway says that the King has
been brought over to the measure of independence, and the Duke
of Richmond declares that his Majesty remains firm in his senti
ments in favor of it. The cabinet are unanimous, is the declara
tion of all of them. Still I am afraid you will hear a different
.language, but for Heaven's sake regard it not. People determined
to think in a certain way, and bent upon certain constructions, if
they cannot find a paragraph, will descend to a sentence, a word,
a syllable, and even a letter, to answer their purpose, like Peter in
the Tale of a Tub. It requires a microscopic eye to see a tittle in
the late debates unfavorable to independence, but if there was, let
us not quit the broad turnpike road for a narrow intricate by-way.
I have my reasons for being thus particular. My heart is with
my friends, and I want them to be truly informed. Let us look
danger in the face, and not shut our eyes against it, or think we
can avoid, by not seeing it, like the ostrich, who hides her head to
prevent the pursuers from knowing where she is.
The relaxation as to the double taxation, is so far satisfactory.
You_make a useless apology for your minuteness as to the acts of
the Legislature. You cannot be too particular. The Philadelphia
papers have gratified me much. You know I wanted very early
to know their speculations upon the changes here. Believe me,
in the substantial bullion of common sense and practical know
ledge, our countrymen are not to be exceeded. As to some distur
bances upon collateral matters, I consider them only as ebullitions
necessarily arising in this sort of public fermentation. We should
not draw general conclusions from particular facts, which may be
otherwise accounted for.
The Crisis, No. XL, is I think a masterly production, but I be
lieve his jealousy has carried him rather too far, I cannot think
this administration has attempted to make America break with .
France, but on this subject I wrote you, I believe, upon the change.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 321
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 5th January, 1783.
My dear Brother:
My not hearing from you by the packet, &c, I presume has
been owing to your expecting me at New-York. How you could
entertain such an idea is best known to yourself, after what I wrote
on a like occasion to that which now led you to expect me, viz.
Mr. Walton's request. See my letters, July 1781. The general
tenor of all my letters, must also have made it highly improbable
that I could in such a hurry leave England, both as to business and
as to my complaint, which you seem totally on all occasions to.
put out of the question.
I sincerely hope I may be able to give you some genuine ac
count of the negotiations at Paris before I close this letter, but I
fear it will be out of my power. Peace and war are alternately
sounded in the city, with equal confidence, to answer the interested
views of stock-jobbers, and equally without foundation ; for every
thing is concealed with impenetrable and remarkable secrecy. In
my mind, it stands but upon the ground of the original letter of
Mr. Secretary Townshend, neither strengthened nor weakened by
any thing which has since appeared. A wide field of conjectures
has been opened to speculating politicians. I own I have an im
pulse that peace will be the result — perhaps my " wish is father to
the thought."
I wish I was with you to share in the consultation of what is
to be done, — but I trust that you will so well digest your plan^that
you will either succeed with honor, or if. you fail, have nothing to
reproach yourself with the neglect of. In these tempestuous times,
reason alone can hold the helm with steadiness. It is too serious
an occasion to be tossed about by passion, or to be influenced by
prejudice. I have all. along, and in all companies, freely declared
my intention of returning to America, whatever might be the issue
of the contest, and though I believe I would be as averse as any
man to purchase an advantage at the expense of my honor, yet I
cannot agree with those whose high and towering spirits could not
brook to live under the government of people they dislike, &c, &c.
(I am much surprised if some' of' these people would, not stoop
41 ' • '

322 the life of
lower than you or I would.) Power has no such charms to me as
to make me care much who possesses it. Revolutions have hap
pened in all countries, and the weaker must submit to the stronger.
For my part, I believe America will be as well governed as
any part of the Old World is. Why not ? Are the people of
America more debauched and corrupt, or less sensible and well-
informed, than the Europeans ? Alas ! / am not to be persuaded
to this. For my part, if I can return, which hitherto I do assure
you I have not taken any one preparatory step to bring about, I
shall be as good a subject of the new government as I ever was of
the old. This declaration I shall not scruple to make, without
lessening myself in my own opinion at all. If they have magna
nimity enough to accept this as an atonement, I shall be happy ;
if not, my heart is not to be broken by this, or, I believe, any other
disappointment. I have gone to the expense of taking a number of papers,
which go by this ship, for your entertainment. In a very late one,
you will see a ridiculous paragraph relative to the loyalists. These
people, it would seem, if they are so much courted by all parties,
are not so pitiable as they have been represented. If the French
and Gen. Washington are so favorable to them, surely their case is
not so desperate, and the rather as the General (that too is said)
is soon to be the Lord Protector of America, by name and office, as
he already is said to be in fact! Was there ever such infatua
tion ? Must a man, to be an orthodox party man, renounce his
reason, and swallow the grossest absurdities ?
If ever I have the happiness of again embracing you, my dear
brother, I shall have much to communicate, and you will be con
vinced that I have not been guided by other people's opinions, but
by my own. This idea, as well as some others, I have often re
peated, and / have a view in it. I wish every favorable part of
my character might be known in due time to my dearest boy. I
wish him to possess an enlarged, a liberal mind ; which will think
for itself, unshackled by prejudice or bigotry. Sentiments incul
cated upon him, would perhaps have additional weight by the ex
ample of his father. At a distance, he will perhaps consider me
with more reverence than if I was near him. How imperceptibly
do I always slide into this subject, in which my heart is wrapped up.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 323
I must beg of you to apologize to all my correspondents, for I
write to none but you. You are entitled to a preference, and I must
confine myself in the number and extent of my correspondences.
Heaven preserve you all, is the fervent prayer of,
Your brother and friend,
P. V. S.

TO HIS BROTHERS.
London, 2d Feb., 1783.
My dear Brothers :
I have written you lately by the Vigilant, by Capt. Gordon,
aid-de-camp to Gen. Campbell, and by the packet which sailed the
16th January, and carried over three mails. My last of the 20th,
by the Vigilant, I am most desirous of your receiving. The sub
jects which we have hitherto written upon, could not be much
affected by the events of the day. I therefore humbly aimed at
giving you principles instead of the sayings of this great man or
that, and of this and the other noble lord. I am mortified to think,
that some of my best shafts have been spent in air, at least have
not hit the object I aimed at.
I did not send you the provisional* articles, because I know
many copies went over in the Vigilant, and they will doubtless
find their way into the prints. I gave you some desultory observa
tions: 1. Upon the general construction of the 5th and 6th articles,
as they affected the different descriptions of the loyalists, and more
especially as they applied to the banishing act. 2. I went into the
particular case of my children as the representatives of their grand
father. I will endeavor to recollect what I have before written,
so as to make this a sort of duplicate. The clauses are by no means
worded with perspicuity, or accurate discrimination. However, one
thing is clear, that there is to be no more loss or damage suffered
by any body " in person, liberty, or property." The 5th clause
relates only to confiscated estates, so that according to the letter,
the case of double taxation is not to be included in the recommend
ation. But the spirit of the two clauses seems to extend to this
case, for the greater should include the lesser, and if even persons
* Now no longer provisional.

324 the life of
attainted are to be recommended, much more should those who are
less guilty.
I have recommended to you to make yourself thoroughly mas
ter of these clauses, their spirit and meaning, as well as the letter;
writing them out and emphasizing the words which affect the object
of your particular inquiry, will be of use. Our friend Harrison
will be of service to you, and will supply my place in your investi
gations. This treaty is the magna charta of the poor loyalists, and
one of the corner-stones of the new republic, which should be laid
in " justice, equity, and a spirit of conciliation," and let me add, of
mercy and liberality* All animosities should now be buried
under this new edifice, which every American should endeavor to
support, to strengthen, and to beautify.
There are clamors and grumblings here at the peace ; but
as to the weight of the objections, I trouble myself little about
them. It is sufficient that it is peace. It is too common a prac
tice, with men, to employ their thoughts upon what ought to have
been and what might have been done. In these retrospects I see
no use, unless they will enable us to profit by them in future. I
have endeavored, as I often tell you, to consider things as they
really were, and to reason from them, (and not from my own
theories,) of what probably would be in future. A new Mra now
opens to our view ; let us look forward and act, not from the
impulse of passion, but the dictates of reason. We cannot com
mand events : in all the dispensations of Providence, " to reason
right is to submit." The appeal has been made to the sword, and
the decision has taken place. No writ of error will help the losers.
You should attend very closely to the sentiments of the people
respecting the terms of peace, which I hope will be well relished.
Indeed, America has had a carte blanche, and has (as I surmised in
a former letter) held the scale. The French would gladly have
kept up the ball, with America to support them. This country,
therefore, was determined to satisfy America, who, that being done,
did not choose to be made subservient to the views of France, and
* The sacred nature of the first treaty made by Infant States, who must
be desirous of laying the corner-stones of their government in justice, clem
ency and benignity, will strike Sedgwick.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 325
she, perceiving this, was induced to close with Great Britain. My
old friend Jay has exceedingly distinguished himself, and is repre
sented as one of the greatest orators of the age.
In the treaty which secured the independency of the United
Provinces, in 1609, there was a stipulation that all property, though
after a forty years' war, should be restored to the proprietors.
Where there had been sales, and the proceeds put into the treasury,
the owners were to have the yearly interest. The Catalonians
were also restored to their property, by an express article of
the treaty of Utrecht, or the peace about that time with Spain. I
only write from recollection, in which, however, as to the substance
I am sure I am right, having seen the very treaties. It may be
well for you to turn to the histories of those times.
You see I write as if I was determined upon staying here some
time longer, though it is as yet a matter of doubt. Possibly I may
go out in May, but write without regard to this. I most ardently
long for my return. May God grant me once more a sight of my
native country and beloved friends !* A life of retirement, study
and reflection is my object. Tranquillity and the " calm evening
of a stormy life," are all I wish for. I have seen enough of the
world to have formed a proper estimate of its value ; and all it
contains worth prizing, are the pleasures of happy domestic connec
tions. Whether I shall increase mine, depends on events and
circumstances. I have a most affectionate letter (with an offer of his purse)
from an old friend now in Paris, and am not without hopes of seeing
him here. Who is the friend who was thirsting for letters from
me, &c. ? Give me his initials.
I am afraid I shall not be able, as I intended, to write to Mr.
Sedgwick. My eyes cannot stand such a constant exertion ; still,
am I halting between two minds about the operation. How kind
would it have been, had you told me Colonel Philips's fate, and
that of the others Mr. Bailey has operated upon ! ! Good or bad,
let me know all. I have no childish or womanish fears against
knowing the truth.

* Read this paragraph to Mrs. Silvester.

326 THE LIFE of

TO THE SAME. London, 19th Feb., 1783.
My dear Brothers :
Your several letters and newspapers by the packet, and by Mr.
Martin, I have received since I wrote my last. By the mail and
by the Vigilant I have written so fully, that I will content myself
with a reference to my letters on the important subject of the Pro
visional Articles of Peace. On Monday, they came under debate
in either House. In the upper, the ministry carried an address of
approbation and thanks; but in the lower, they were outvoted,
and the peace was condemned, though by all hands agreed to be
beyond the power of being revoked or set aside.
The American commissioners have engaged, it is said, warmly
to urge the matter of the loyalists — particularly Doctor Franklin.
This has been mentioned in Parliament, by some of the members.
I send you one paper, but it gives an imperfect account of the
debates ; so indeed do all of them separately, for the House of
Commons did not rise till seven o'clock in the morning, the Lords
not till four o'clock. I was not present, for it was impossible to
get in, except by waiting many hours in a crowded lobby before
the debates began, which I thought was purchasing the gratifica
tion at too dear a rate. It is thought that this peace is so very
advantageous to the States, that they will cheerfully submit to the
recommendations of Congress, (who, it seems by the debates, had
given express powers to stipulate thus far but no farther.) The
vast territory ceded to them, which was never claimed as part of
the States, it is thought will have great weight with them.
Whether the peace will be deemed a good one or not by Congress,
certainly it is thought a bad one here, and will probably cost the
minister his place.
An American ambassador is soon to make his entry (it is said
a public one) into London. Believe me, that however unpalatable
this may be to many, yet the great bulk of the nation will hail the
event with real joy. The people at large love the Americans,
though the tender ties are dissolved. One or two vessels, with the
thirteen stripes flying, are now in the river Thames, and the crews
caressed.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 327
Pray give me the particulars about Vermont. You say the se
ceding towns of New Hampshire will revert in case of indepen
dence. 1 should have thought just the contrary. I expect to see
that disturbance effectually crushed before the army is disbanded.
My dear brother, consult your understanding upon the nature and
probability of the intelligence you get, before you communicate
it. Sedgwick could open a rich mine of political internal informa
tion ; but I commend in the highest degree his silence to you. He
is a man near my heart, and I think our minds have a near alli
ance. What good could we have done had we both been on one
side ! Tell him, I shall go over every way as worthy his friend
ship as I ever was, and shall have it in my power, I hope, to en
tertain him not a little when we meet.
God Almighty bless you all, prays,
My dear Harry and David,
Your affectionate brother,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO THE SAME. London, 22d Feb., 1783.
My dear Brothers :
As I expect I shall have some further materials for a letter, in
addition to what I have already written, before the frigate sails,
permit me to begin it with a very serious injunction, that you will
contrive to give me the most authentic information of what success
we may probably expect, in the intended application on behalf of
my children for a restoration of their grandfather's property ; for
as I expect this nation will do something by way of compensation
for confiscated property, it will be incumbent on me, in perform
ance of the trust I am vested with, to apply here ; but this I only
mean as the last resort, as I would infinitely prefer a restoration on
your side of the water to any thing, though adequate, which could
be done here, as being much more honorable in my mind.*
The minister is again outvoted, and a change, I take for
granted, will follow. The coalition between Mr. Fox and Lord
* Mr. V. S. wrote under the erroneous impression that his father-in-law's
estate had been confiscated. Henry Cruger's name does not appear among
the number of those whose estates were confiscated.

328 - THE LIFE OF
North seems to be cemented- What a forgiving set of men does
the present age produce ! Perhaps all this may work out some
good, to the poor loyalists,' and in any other point of view, their
changes, cabals and intrigues, are of little consideration to our
countrymen. Lord S. has been made the scape-goat, and has done
and brought about what his enemies wished to be done, what
Fox's party would have done if they had been in power, and what
Lord N.'s would hardly have dared to keep up the war to prevent,
All parties wished for peace, but as an honorable or advantageous
one could not be obtained, and as the nation began to feel bold
when the danger was over, and to think they might have obtained
what they wanted spirit to avow during the war, the malcontent
availed themselves of this high war-toned spirit when the war was
oyer, and criminated the minister for a peace so humiliating in the
present formidable state of the naval power and the resources of
the nation ! While I was writing, an account of last night's de
bates was brought me, in which I find Lord N. expressly declares
the act to make peace with America (which originated in his ad
ministration) was intended to give the King power to declare inde
pendence. If in the patchwork of the conduct of the great men for years
past, you can see any two pieces that look alike, you will be saga
cious. For my own part, I frankly own I am not disappointed. I
wonder at nothing. I formed my observations with great care and
candor, and endeavored to know " what manner of men these
were," and if I have often erred, I have sometimes been right.
Can you wonder that my heart beat with joy, when I saw the
dawnings of peace — a peace upon any terms, that our country
might get rid of the infernal war, which deluged her in blood, and
which for many years has had no one object that a wise man could
discover ; or at least, when known, which a good man could approve?
Who can dare to charge me with inconsistency, seeing, as I have '
seen, what people we are connected with, for wishing, as I fervently'
did, for the event which is now settled ? I declare solemnly that
the, love of my country, and no personal considerations, was the
foundation of my principles, which never have wavered. Consistency,
to be a virtue, must be an adherence to principles, and not to opin
ions formed upon misinformation.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 329
I thank you for the newspapers, the resolutions concerning
Vermont, the decision against Connecticut, the Virginia resolves :
those of Newburgh and Fredericksburg have not escaped a pretty
close consideration. This is a species of intelligence essentially
material, and I wish you would keep an eye upon it in future.
Every public procedure should be noticed. It is from them that
we are to form an idea of the temper of the times.
I have several times had it in mind, to propose giving a set of
books, as a premium for the best exercise in the Kinderhook Acad
emy upon the subject of peace, and the means of improving it in
•a manner most conducive to the happiness of society. You may
be sure that I should not expect much of the political knowledge
of the statesman ; but the interests of humanity, of morality and
religion, I would have chiefly considered. A contrast between the
horrors of war, and the tranquil blessings of peace — the turbulent
passions and animosities which grow out of the one, with the phi
lanthropy and social affections of the other — the cultivation of the
arts and sciences, would suggest topics. I would rather Harry
should merit than obtain the premium. If S  approves this, let
it be in his name rather than mine, and you may give a guinea or
two for the purpose. This is not a mere whim, nor does it proceed
from ostentation, but I really think every citizen of America, should
endeavor as much as possible to disseminate principles of humanity,
and to prevent the deadly feuds which too often grow out of civil
wars. "Shame to men! devil with devil damn'd, firm concord
holds, man only disagrees," &c. — says Milton, Parad. Lost, Book
II. line 495.
The prosecution of the printer at Philadelphia, and the conduct
of the C. Justice towards the grand-jury, really surprised me.
I am exceedingly anxious to know what sort of maxims the
States will adopt in this time of peace ; the wisdom of them must
determine what degree of happiness the country is to expect, at
least, in our time.
Feb* 28th. All is in confusion in the struggle for places, and
to this hour, no arrangement has yet taken place. All parties are
now contending who shall reap the fruit of the peace, while all
agree to wound Lord S. with the thorns. I shall not be surprised
soon to see the delirium subside, and the peace considered as a ben-
42

330 THE LIFE OF
eficial one. The city of London have unanimously approved it.
It will be a matter of curiosity to you to read the debates, and of
use to you in forming an estimate of some people's extent of un
derstanding. You may recollect a little essay, " Thoughts upon Civil Wars;"
turn to it and read Lord Littleton's dialogues, — the first especially
between Hampden and Falkland, with some papers on parties in
the Spectator, (one in the first, second, or third volume especially.)
The voice of reason is often silenced amidst the din of faction, and
in the heat of animosity, but intervals succeed to paroxysms. If a
man cannot do all the good he wishes, let him do what he can. A
well disposed mind will never want a sphere to exert itself in.
March 16th. As to politics, there has been a perfect anarchy
here for near a month, but it is said an administration is at length
settled, at the head of which is the Duke of Portland, or in other
words, so is his grace nominally, but the person who has set eveiy
thing in motion, is Mr. Fox.
When you see some of our judicious friends in the country, con
fer with them on the subject of the finances, the public debts, &c.
of the United States. I want to be able to confute the ridiculous
notions which some people advance, of the exhausted state of the
country. In spite of all former experience, they speak of America
as if it was governed by people who had not come to years of dis
cretion, and wanted guardians to superintend them. To be sure,
it is from Europe that these guardians ought to be sent. Another
topic is, that the states will quarrel among themselves, and that
they will be compelled to call in European powers to their assist
ance.* But I trust in the wisdom of the ruling powers, to adjust
all these matters at once, and so prevent the seeds of dissension
from springing up. Every American of every description should
unite in this business. A sketch of what measures government
will pursue towards the places now in commotion, will be very in
teresting. I trust I shall have a particular account of all our friends in
the country, the number of which I dare say, is not a little dimin-

* These things are thrown out to check the spirit of emigration, which I
encourage as far as is in my power.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 331
ished by death in this length of time since I left them. What a
change will our native place undergo ! What cheerful hours we
have spent there ! You have not for some time mentioned our
mother. God grant I may once more see her, but 1 very much
apprehend this will not be this year, as I think it will be impossi
ble for me to get away without prejudice to the concerns which
have been intrusted to me.
I have written my boy Harry, but I believe the vessel is not
yet gone. She was to have carried over despatches, if the minister
could have kept his ground.
I shall send your ring by the next ship. I have lately traced
out our family in Holland, and find it respectable. I will also
send you the arms. Heaven preserve you all.
Yours most affectionately,
P. V. S.
TO THE SAME.
London, 4th March, 1783.
My dear Brothers :
The January packet sailed the 16th of that month with three
mails, and the February packet with that month's mail sailed the
23d ultimo ; and the Vigilant, a merchant ship, sailed about the
17th February. By all which conveyances you will have letters
and very copious ones from me, with, I believe, the latest advices,
though not the latest dates, to the time of the respective departure
of those ships. The Crocodile frigate or sloop was to have sailed
about ten days ago, and I wrote two or three letters to go by her,
but the confusion which has taken place among the great folks,
has prevented this vessel's sailing ; and I know not what is be
come of the letters.
The effects of the peace upon its first annunciation, in the diff
erent states, and among different descriptions of men, and the ani
madversions upon it in the prints, I shall hope to have from you.
My anxious hopes are, that there may be demonstrations of joy on
the occasion, though I fear that the articles in favor of the loyalists,
will not be very palatable. The animosities are deeply rooted,
and are not easily eradicated. In Europe, the peace is considered
as a most advantageous and a most honorable one to America. In

332 THE LIFE OF
this country it is much reprobated, so far as respects the other
powers, but such is the general prejudice in favor of the Americans,
such was the abhorrence of that war, that the pill is swallowed for
the sake of being at peace with that country, since that could not
be obtained without a general pacification, which they would have
wished to avoid, if they could have been at peace with America,
from a desire of humbling the power of France. The articles re
specting the loyalists are also found fault with, but for this there is
an obvious remedy. A part of one year's expense of the war,
only, will reimburse these unfortunate men. Something' of this
sort, I believe, will be done as soon as the present anarchy gives
way to some arrangement.
For near a fortnight there has been a sort of interregnum in
administration, in consequence of the minister's being outvoted the
17th instant. Nothing has been heard of but cabals and intrigues
among the heads of the different factions ever since. Lord North's
coalition with Mr. Fox will perhaps surprise you. I have seen so
many strange things, that I wonder at nothing — nil admirari is my
motto. Such a set ! I own I have my fears that the confusions
here will have bad effects, as they already have had, from the mis
taken ideas that the objections to the terms of the peace, go to the
validity of it.
Some of our friends think a grea.t point is gained by Lord S.'s
being overturned. I cannot agree with them. I- should imagine
that the American commissioners would rather negotiate, with
respect to the treaty of commerce, with those with whom they have
hitherto proceeded amicably, than with such as come in upon the
principle, that too much has been yielded already to America. A
good understanding between this court and that of Philadelphia
might prove favorable to the poor loyalists. Mr. Fox says he
wishes no terms had been stipulated, rather than such as they are
with respect to the loyalists. Some of our countrymen hold the
same heroic language. Why ? Because the recommendations will
not be attended to with respect to the confiscations. But are there
no descriptions of loyalists but such whose estates have been con
fiscated ? Are none relieved by the treaty such as it is ? Is it no
consideration, that future confiscations and future punishments of
every kind, are taken away ? Is it nothing that the number who

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 333
have little or no property, and can get their bread in America, and
who would otherwise have been compelled to quit it, are now
enabled to remain there ? Are our friends out of the lines, whose
minds will now be relieved from the terrors of prosecutions to
which they were liable, (those terrors I fancy not much lessened
by certain publications here,) of no consideration ?
It is, I am sure, quite unnecessary to mention that we ought
now to consider ourselves in no other light than that of citizens of
America, and to cultivate the blessings of peace by every means
in our power. The affairs and concerns of England will in a little
time affect us no more than those of any other state in Europe, nor
shall I hanker after the leeks and onions of Egypt, I assure you,
when I get back to America. When that will be is not quite so
clear, but in choosing the time, my friends must submit to my pru
dence. My heart is with you, for more reasons than 1 can tell,
and for other reasons I must still suspend my resolution as to the
time of putting it in execution.
As you are well acquainted with the northern country, I need
not delineate or comment upon the boundaries of the United States.
This has occasioned much grumbling here, and it is said more is
granted than America claimed. If this is so, may it not have been
done upon some secret confidence, that the indulgences to the loy
alists will be the better received and complied with ? Certain it
is, that in all pacifications, (that especially in 1609, securing the
independence of the Netherlands,) stipulations have been made in
favor of the adherents of the mother country, and acts of oblivion
have accompanied the cessation of hostilities. The gradual pro
gress of the evacuation, will afford a favorable opportunity of
beginning an intercourse with the country, and of the people's
mixing together. I was always afraid of an evacuation while the
war continued, though my reason was convinced, that in the
nature of things it could not be. It was said in the House of
Commons yesterday, that it would be six months before the
evacuation could be completed.
Pray how is it with the act to prevent us from practising the
law ? Not that I intend ever to resume this, unless I should get
into a domestic connection once more ; but in that case, I own I

334 THE LIFE OF
should wish to be at liberty. You will be tired of this long letter,
so am I ; therefore adieu !
Yours, affectionately,
P. V. S.
TO THE SAME.
London, 20th March, 1783.
My dear Brothers :
I have written to you by every packet, and every other convey
ance I heard of, since the important event of the peace, so that you
will be in possession of all the information in my power to give
you. The events of the last month have been of little consequence,
on account of the anarchy in the administration, which is at length
fixed, as we hear, according to the dictate of the Duke of Port
land, or rather of Mr. Fox. The King has not been permitted the
nomination of one single member, as the report goes. Strange
doings, but what are they to us who are citizens of America and
aliens here ? Let us content ourselves with the milk and honey
of our native country, without a latent wish for the leeks and
onions of the old.
I cannot too often repeat my anxiety to hear every particular
of the reception the peace meets with in America. I hope it will
be a welcome guest, though I fear some of the features will not be
altogether pleasing. In Europe, however, it is considered that
America has had a carte blanche, and in fact dictated her own terms.
Certain it is, that Lord Shelbume's administration was overset by
the notion which prevailed of his having conceded too much.
There is, notwithstanding, in this nation, the most cordial affection
to. the Americans, and I believe one half of it will emigrate to that
prbmised land ; indeed, I do not wonder at it. The American
stripes have already appeared in the Thames, and have been hailed
with acclamations of joy.
There seems to be a general competition among the powers of
Europe, which shall most conciliate the affections of the new States.
What prospects are opened to them ! If their interior governments
are but wisely conducted, if no dissensions break out between the
different States, respecting boundaries particularly, they will rise

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 335
into opulence and power with unexampled rapidity. I hope most
fervently that the harmony and unanimity prevalent there, will be
a contrast to the distractions which still continue here ! All is
again in confusion, and the coalition between Fox and North is
said to be so generally odious, that it is likely to fail, and that Mr.
Pitt, (the most amiable character of all the competitors,) young as
he is, will be the premier, supported by the Bedford party, the
Sherburnites, and a great proportion of the independent country
gentlemen. What number they consist of, I am yet to learn.
Yours most sincerely,
P. V. S.
TO THE SAME.
London, 26th May, 1783.
My dear Brothers :
It was not till five days after the letters in the mails were de
livered out, that I received mine by our friend Hayes, whom I have
however not seen. I thank you for those letters, which are inter
esting indeed, and judiciously calculated to meet my inquiries. I
am glad Benson retains his old attachments. It really touched my
heart, and revived the feelings of my early days. I wish I had a
copy made out to send you of a letter from my old friend Jay. My
tour to Holland and France is suspended, in consequence of a
report that he is coming over here. Sedgwick has my unabated
affection. In him there never existed a circumstance, that could
even create a suspicion whether he was the same man as ever —
uniformly friendly ! I know not how to express myself with suffi
cient energy respecting him.
Your letter operated as a flat contradiction to almost all the
accounts we had, and you may be sure was valuable on that score.
How loosely do some people take up serious matters ! The Trespass
Act is made a handle of, charging the Americans with a total dis
regard of conciliation, as well as of the treaty. I have not time to
discuss how far it is, or is not, superseded by the sixth article.
The object of the politicians now is, to prove, 1. That General
Washington is to be the Cromwell of America, and that the sedi
tious papers are encouraged by himself, to facilitate his purposes.
2. That the United States are bankrupts, and therefore, 3. That

336 the life of
they cannot pay off the arrears to the army, which are computed
at ten millions sterling. 4. That General Washington acts in
concert with France, and that when the British troops are with
drawn, a body of French will probably land in America as auxilia
ries to him ; and, to consummate all, that America is to be a scene
of blood, from the intestine divisions which will take place very
soon ; that her troubles are but beginning, &c, &c. Now all this
may be true, but, as I am not in the secrets of futurity, I cannot
adopt it in my creed. Bavus sum non QZdipus ; that is to say, I
am no prophet.
My love to all friends. Yours affectionately,
P. V. S.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 12th July, 1783.
My dear Brother :
I thank you for your long letters by the Iris, which, I will venture
to say, contain more authentic and well selected intelligence of
what is, as well as more rational conjectures of what probably will
be, than, judging from some specimens, all the rest of the letters
besides. The violent proceedings we hear of are not unexpected
to me, and therefore they do not shock me so much as they do
many others. I was afraid, ignominious as the provisional articles
were deemed here, as relating to the loyalists, that they would be
received in a very different light on your side the water, and that
induced me to be so very importunate about the reception they
might meet with, in that country where tbey were to have their
operation. I expected a storm, but I do hope it will spend itself
by its own violence.
I own to you that I do not perceive any thing that has yet hap
pened, which is not deducible from the general principles of human
nature, as have been delineated in the history of all violent times ;
but I shall be astonished indeed, if after some little time a sort of
calm does not succeed to the present agitations. It would be a
curious speculation, to discuss the probable progress and termination
of these commotions and party animosities, and if I had leisure, I
would gladly make an essay, an humble one I am conscious it
would be; but, however I might feel the want of ability, yet as I

peter van schaack. 337
believe there are few men who possess and exercise a greater share
of candor, (at least on political subjects,) I should not despair of
sometimes coming near the truth. However I may be swayed by
petulance in small matters, yet upon these great topics, I endeavor
to view things, not with the jaundiced eye of prejudice, but with
a philosophic expansion and liberality.
Your conjecture about the motive of Congress in delaying the
recommendation, is equally candid and rational. I may add too,
that the motive you ascribed to them is politic. Instances of in
attention to their recommendations should not be multiplied. The
United States will be a rope of sand, if some controlling, superin
tending power is not maintained. The last " Crisis," upon this
subject, can be equalled only by the other productions of that truly
sensible writer. I am still of opinion, that all the difficulties
America labors under will be easily overcome, if the different States
will look at the object of a united interest, and one common hap
piness. The gentleman you describe from a certain circumstance which
was too friendly to be forgotten, I fear is too sanguine and liberal.
My hopes go not so far ; however, what he says is a proof of the *•
goodness of his heart, and of the pure principles he has acted upon,
of which, from an early intimacy with him, I never entertained a
doubt. I am sanguine enough to think that he remembers me
with some degree of regard — indeed as to intention and motive,
I am not conscious of ever having done any thing to forfeit the
friendship of any man whatsoever. Indeed, the estimate I have
formed of human life, and of all that the worU contains, is such as
will secure me from pursuing any objects 1 might have in view,
by violating the duties of any of the social connections. I am
aware that holding up principles of liberality, humanity, and the
obligation of former attachments, may be ascribed to selfish mo
tives in people of our description, but I appeal to you, whether
under the pressure of severe measures, in confidential conversa
tions, and in solitary disquisitions, I ever wanted charity in the
construction of the actions of others. Do as you would be done
dvj judge as you would be judged of, is the great principle I en-
deavor not to lose sight of.
With respect to myself too, I write upon the subject as a man,
43

338 THE life of
not as a person who has his own particular situation to bias him ;
for I am happy enough, not to be necessitated to return to America.
I can live out of it, — there are many doors open to me if I choose
to take any pains, which hitherto I have not done, as all my af
fections (not my interest, I assure you) draw me to my native coun
try. Excuse my saying so much, but my heart is so warmed by
these subjects, that I cannot resist the impulse of disburthening it.
You say you had almost determined not to have said any thing
aboutnthe state of the country, as things have not yet got into a
determined train. I am glad you did not suffer this reason to pre
vail. It will be no impeachment of your judgment if your conjec
tures fail ; but your intelligence has been truly interesting to me,
and I beg you will go on in the same way. " To catch the man
ners living as they rise" must be our common object; from hence,
however, you have not much to expect as to intelligence — that day
is over, unless the definitive treaty should meet with impediments,
which I own I have some fears about.
I warit our country to be completely free from European poli
tics, or^ at least, I dread any discussions that have a retrospect to
»tb.e past. Oblivion is what I wish. Let us begin of a new en
tirely. Much as Lord S  e is execrated, I sincerely believe he
would have wound up this business more for the honor of this
country, (but what is that to us ?) as well as more beneficially for
the poor loyalists, which does concern us, and concerns humanity
- too, than the present motley, patchwork administration. This I
know would be called a paradox by certain politicians, but I have
long learnt what is due to their opinions. I was called an un
believing Thomas, because I called in question the Report, the
rise and progress of which you have so satisfactorily explained.
D  d politics ! infernal Jesuitry, which justifies the means, he
they never so infamous, by the end it has in view. How many
good men fall into this abyss of error !
If possible, I will send you, Cornelius and David each a seal
with the family arms. The motto is of my own choosing ; the
idea is, that fortune is to be overcome by enduring it with patience
and fortitude. I have taken it out of (my favorite) Virgil. Tell
Harry to look to the 5th iEneid, line 709. I was the readier, to
give this a preference to some others, because it is connected in

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 339
the author with the idea my dear boy held up in a quotation of
his own, in his last letter but one. But it is my philosophy.
I approve much of the use you have made of my remarks on
the provisional articles, but wish I had been more correct than I
fear I was. A little of the impetuous I know belongs to me, and
in avoiding one extreme, I often run into another. I am seldom a
tenant in the castle of indolence. When the articles were an
nounced, I found several people I converse with were spending
their time in speculating on the infamy of the articles; on the
degradation of British dignity, and the like; nay, some were
controverting whether the nation was bound by the peace, and
whether the limits of the prerogative were not transgressed. I
threw all these out of the question as Eutopian investigations, and
endeavored to consider the subject in a practical way, and this
very early, that you might have the first fruits of my thoughts.
There are some severe stings in the Worcester resolves ; they
touch not me, but they are pointed. I am happy that J do not
deserve them. I mean as to what relates to transactions after the
commencement of the negotiation, and more especially those, after
the conclusion of the peace. These resolves, however, do not, in
my opinion, make the proper allowance for human frailty ; they
go upon a principle that men cannot innocently differ from each
other ; they try imperfect beings by rules of perfection, the resolvers
being themselves the judges of what truth is. The distinction made .
by civilians seems not to have been adverted to, between actions
materially and formally good. Truth cannot indeed consist with
contradictory propositions, but Omniscience alone can decide
which is right and which wrong. To ourselves, indeed, our own
judgments must be the rule of action, our conscience must be
our law; but that which is convincing evidence to us, may not be
so to others, and yet we may be all equally innocent in the sight
of God. " The good must merit God's peculiar care,
But who, but God, can tell us who they are ?"
I will not dwell on this subject. You have a little essay of ^
mine upon it. The principles of toleration, religious as well as
political, have been very seriously investigated by me, and the

340 THE LIFE OF
result of my attention to this subject, since I came here, has con
firmed me in the ideas I took up seven or eight years ago. Our
characters are not fully known, till we have quitted the theatre of
action. Moral as well as literary merit, is often then only acknow
ledged when the possessor is no more. If you can lay your hands
on Bolingbroke's letters on the use and study of history, read the
secondhand you will be pleased with it. We should endeavor to
profit by past experience, and to acquire philosophy from history,
teaching it by examples. I cannot help transcribing the following
lines which were applied to Grotius during his exile :
Sed — quatenus (heu nefas .')
Virtutem incolumem odimus,
Sublatam ex oculis quceramus invidi.
You will let Harry translate this. 'Tis painful to see a good man
suffer, for who would not rather be the innocent sufferer, than the
guilty aggressor ? When the friends of Socrates lamented that he
should suffer, being innocent, he replied, " Would you then wish
me to be guilty ?"
Perhaps politicians may laugh at these trite remarks, but you
will know that if they have no other use or propriety, they may
occasionally suggest subjects for your conversation with my dear
boy, who, I hope, will learn toleration from them, or if he should
live under a planet equally inauspicious as his friends have done,
that he may acquire patience and submission to his lot. 'Tis within
"a man's own bosom that he must find happiness, or he will find it
nowhere. External circumstances may increase, but they cau
never constitute it. I shall be much surprised indeed, if, after the
present ferments subside, (and subside they must, for the daily
proofs we have of human wretchedness cannot but soften the
hearts of the most obdurate towards their fellow-creatures, how
ever mistaken,) I do not see the liberal and enlarged principles of
philanthropy come, with all their force and energy, from the Ameri
can presses. The pulpit, too — what more noble subjects can it choose
for discussion ? In short, the divine, the moralist, the philosopher
and the real patriot, must unite in the great object of extinguishing
animosity and restoring harmony, nor ought even the humblest
individual to withhold his mite.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 341
We should not be deterred by the magnitude of the object, or
the greatness of the difficulty, from making efforts. There is
scarce any being so humble, who may not in some degree or an
other, promote the great cause of humanity. As it is my principle
to draw benefit out of evil, and as I have endeavored to take a large
and comprehensive view of the general economy of Providence, I
sometimes think I am upon the whole the better for my disappoint
ments in life. I am indeed poor, but what thinking man, at my
time in life, can believe that riches are essential to happiness ? I
might have acquired a more extensive knowledge of my profession,
and perhaps, some degree of reputation — but professional men are
often merely professional men. I might have been of some use as
a member of society, in my native country — this indeed is a retros
pect that does not sit quite easy on my mind, but I have endeavored
to profit by the maxim transmitted to us by antiquity : If you are
deprived of exercising the duties of a citizen, exercise those of a
man ;* that is, be a citizen of the world. Cultivate the enlarged
principles of general humanity, and universal benevolence and
philanthropy. Adieu, my dear brother, and believe me,
Affectionately yours,
P. V. S.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 16th August, 1783.
My dear Brother :
I have in my preceding letters exhausted all the subjects be
tween us of the most material consequence. To them therefore I
refer you. My last was by the Earl of Effingham, in the hands of
Doctor Morrison, who carries your cane, which a certain friend
of yours would deserve a little discipline from, if he was half so
faulty as he has been represented. I long very anxiously to hear
of your movements, and am not without hopes that you will find
yourself enabled to go home, where a retired, circumspect conduct
will, I hope, procure you peace.
I wish you to recall to mind my precise situation when I left
* Officium civis si amiseris, hominis exerceas.

342 THE LIFE OF
Poughkeepsie, particularly Gov. C.'s certificate, a duplicate of which
was sent by me to the Commissioners of Conspiracies. I think Mr.
S  k or Mr. B  might make this, with the concomitant
circumstances, a ground for a pardon from the executive power.
The Governor told me I was no object of the act, and the Commision-
ers assured me that if they had known that I had had the Gover
nor's permission, they would not have proceeded against me. They
did, however, record me before they got the certificate, but as they
would not have done it, if they had had it, and as they afterwards
did receive it (no neglect being imputable to me) — quere whether
that ought not to be undone, upon a knowledge of the case, which
would not have been done, if it had been known ? I state this but
weakly at present, by way of breaking the case, but I wish you to give
me your sentiments, and those of my friends. I would not have any
premature attempts made on my behalf, but it would give me real
pleasure, if I could return under an explicit declaration and a par
ticular permission, my case being I believe singular.
My love to all friends. Yours affectionately.
P. V. S.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 343

CHAPTER XVI.
TO JANE SILVESTER.
London, 4th Sept., 1783.
My dearest Sister :
My son Harry having mentioned that you desired him to tell
me, that you had not received a letter from me since I left Ameri
ca, I consider it not as a reproach for my neglect, but as an invi
tation to me to write, which I most cheerfully sit down to do. To
you, my beloved sister, I could never be guilty of inattention, and
all my friends have remained in my warmest affection, without the
least interruption. Your brother's heart is the same it always was,
and I believe it never was accused of want of sensibility or tender
ness, whatever his imperfections may be.
Our poor mother ! Harry has made my heart bleed by what
he tells me of the proof she gives of her parental fondness for me,
whenever I am talked of. I hope she remembers no one circum
stance to make her doubt of my filial duty and love. Could I
think she did, that indeed would embitter all my days. You, my
dear sister, have had the greatest opportunity of manifesting your
duties to her ; some occasions must have been arduous ones, but
the remembrance of them will be pleasing to you, when the fond
parent is no more. I am sure you will contribute every thing in
your power to her comfort and ease, and let me too have the satis
faction of knowing, that you have for me, and at my expense, done
something to this purpose so near my heart ; devise something or
another that will be acceptable to her, and let her receive it as
from me. You will oblige me in proportion as you can make it
agreeable to her. Assure her of the unabated tenderness of my
heart towards her, and let her not entertain a moment's anxiety on
my account.I have hitherto heard not many particulars of you all ; but I
hope I shall now be gratified on that interesting subject. My

344 THE LIFE OF
nephews and nieces should indulge me with an account of the situ
ation of the different branches of the family.
I come now to an interesting subject indeed — my own children 1
How was I shocked at the charge of ingratitude for the kind care
you and Mr. Silvester and Jane have taken of them ! Believe me,
my dear sister, I am incapable of such a blackness of heart, and I
shall always retain the most grateful sentiments for all their bene
factors. God knows it is not a voluntary act of mine to leave
them in the care of others ; and to vindicate myself against any
suspicion of that nature, I am compelled to enter more minutely
into my own situation than I would, on account of your sympa
thetic feelings, have wished. Immediately on my arrival in Lon
don, I consulted the ablest physicians on my unfortunate complaint,
and they unanimously dissuaded me from an operation, from the
danger it might subject the other eye to, encouraging me at the
same time to hope that I might retain the sight of that all my life.
In the autumn of 1780, however, I found a serious attack on the
best eye, and within twenty-four hours, I found my sight so much
impaired, that with glasses fitted for the advanced age of seventy-
five I could see objects only as I did before with the naked eye.
Still, the advice given me was against an operation, until it became
absolutely inevitable by the total loss of sight. Judge of my situ
ation, my dearest Jenny, and you will think I had some trial for
my fortitude. I bless God, however, my spirits did not fail me ; I
adjusted all my concerns as if I was going to leave the world, I
disposed of all my papers as if 1 was never to see them more, with
the most perfect composure.
In this state of uncertainty and suspense between hope and fear,
have I remained for three years. Would my friends wish to see
me out of this suspense, by a trial which may terminate unfavora
bly ? Is it not better to keep what I have left, than to run the risk
of losing all ? True, it is possible I may never be worse, and could
I be assured of it, I should then indeed not hesitate a moment about
returning to my native country and to rid my friends of the trouble
they have with my children. But in my present uncertainty, per
haps before I had reached my native country and friends, I might
be reduced to the necessity of returning hither, and in that case,
judge what would be my situation in re-crossing the sea ! It may

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 345
be said that the operation might be performed in America, and it
was several times hinted to me, on account of the eminence of an
operator at New-York ; but when, after some difficulty, I obtained
a history of the cases in which he had performed, I found no great
room for confidence : indeed my own opinion of him never was
very high. You, my dearest sister, will feel the force of these em
barrassments, between the dictates of parental family affection, and
a prudent attention to myself, for while I am here, I have my
remedy, if any there is, at hand. Still the former would have pre
vailed, but for the unanimous opinion of my physicians and friends
to the contrary.
I do indeed hold up on all occasions, my determination of re
turning to America, but it is always subject to the condition of my
being out of suspense as to the fate of my eye. Indeed, after all,
I may go out without undergoing the operation, if I should get
moreconfidencet hat I shall not be worse than I now am. In short,
I am in a state of uncertainty, and must be governed by events.
A winter voyage, however, I cannot think of, for if any thing would
make me worse, it would be the inquietudes, and the restless nights
to which that would subject me.
I did not mean to be so prolix, but really the fear that you
might think I had acted petulantly, or wanted gratitude, or asked
any thing unreasonably, forced me to this explanation. At any
rate, my dear sister, let not the sins of the father be visited upon
the children.
You must remember me to all my relations as if I enumerated
them all — to my mother, remember me in the most dutiful and
most affectionate manner ! Heaven preserve you all !
Your affectionate Brother,
P. V. S.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 19th November, 1783.
My dear Brother :
Your letters by the Diomede and Favorite, I have received. I
thank you for them, as well as for the papers. Your letter of the
¦  September merits great applause, not only in my opinion,
but in that of a gentleman whose name I shall not at present men-
44

346 the life of
tion. Upon fairly balancing all the evidence pro and con, I find
no reason to alter those sentiments of what will be, which I enter
tained early after the conclusion of peace, and for which I have had
such severe raps over the knuckles. The little essay from Albany,
does honor to the author. It was something like this 1 wished to
set going very early. I suggested one mode, but it was probably
thought too puerile to be worthy of notice. Men's tempers show
themselves variously — one may be impatient, vehement and petu
lant at neglect and inattention, in short, at matters which maybe
prevented or remedied, while he views with a cool, philosophic
eye, the general course of human events, and submits to the admin
istration of Providence without murmuring, though not without
sympathy for the distress which may fall upon individuals. Upon
these occasions, the torrent indeed cannot be resisted all at once,
but its violence, if it is not to be restrained, may be in some mea
sure diverted, and the most insignificant individual who is well dis
posed, may contribute a mite. God knows how fervently I wished
the happiness of my native country, and how anxious I was that
she should reap the genuine fruits of peace ; and if in any thing I
proposed or suggested, I was influenced by romantic ideas, (under
the name of exalted ones,) and thereby cheapened myself in the es
timation of my friends, at least I can say this, that I did not err
through want of a serious, dispassionate and candid consideration
of the subject. It is easy to judge of what ought to have been done
when it is too late; but I have endeavored, on every great change,!
to anticipate, by considering how it might be improved to the best
advantage, and by this means I save myself the mortification of
regret, even when I find I have erred ; for, to use our talents (suchj
as they are) diligently and fairly, is all we are accountable for.
After what I have said, I trust I shall have some excuse from my
correspondents, for having abated in the frequency and length of
my letters. No man likes to be thought a visionary, and yet how
often do we see sentiments, which are at first startled at, in a
course of time become current and generally adopted ? When I
find a man, who in the general thinks and acts rationally, advanc
ing a proposition to which I cannot immediately assent, I own I
cannot help paying a respectful deference to it, and doubting my
own perception while it opposes his. Men are not distinguished

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 347
from one another so much by the degrees of their abilities, as of
their candor, and a freedom from bigotry, and I own to you, that
I think, that in general the culture is more to be blamed than the
soil. I am much hurt at the neglect of the S  , which I am not
conscious of deserving. I wish I knew the cause of his displea
sure. If it has arisen from any thing that has happened since I
left America, he has been misinformed. As to what existed be
fore, you know it ; certain political ideas and opinions about a
Certain character, &c. If I have been wrong, I cannot help it. I
always judge according to my best abilities, such as they are, and
I cannot renounce my reason, or suppress my sentiments, out of
deference to any man in the world, be he who he may. I will
hold intercourse with no man, but upon terms of perfect equality
and independence. The prerogatives of age cannot extend so far
as to deprive me of this right ; and I claim them not against my
juniors or inferiors, nor, I hope, ever will. Reason and argument
are the only weapons to be used on these occasions.
Our old friend Col. B. R. sent for me the other day. He lives
in a little box some miles out of town, in the plainest manner pos
sible. I found him very unwell : what a reverse ! But, like the
ancient temples of the gods, he is venerable, even in ruins. He
is much noticed by the neighbors ; and that cheerfulness which
feigned in the family of old, still continues in a great degree. I
am happy in the opportunity of showing him marks of attention,
on account of the old connection our family has had with him.
I have been pretty particular in my inquiries of your friends
into your habits of life, as well as David's, that I might derive ben
efit to my own from the example of my elder brothers. 'Tis a
common observation, founded in much truth, that a man must be
his own physician at forty, or a fool. I have attended to what
agrees and what disagrees with me ; and hope at the above period
to escape the last of the adage. I live freely at dinner, but avoid
suppers, and make a point of going cool to bed, if I sit up or walk
about half the night till I become so. A regular habit of body is
the great object I have perfectly attained, by attention ; such is the
connection between soul and body. (See Mr. Locke's Treatise on
Education.) A gentle dose of salts and manna (half an ounce of

348 THE LIFE OF
each) every now and then, especially after generous living, I find
very useful. Bathing the feet in lukewarm water at night, assists
in- removing attacks upon the head, eyes and ears, by a revul
sion — washing them in cold water in the morning I have practised
by way of hardening them— keeping a perfectly clean skin assists
perspiration. In short, that virtue cleanliness is the great preser
vative against disease of every kind. I walk eight or ten miles
before dinner with ease, and expose myself to all weathers, in the
day time. Excuse this desultory account of myself. Whether it
is the climate, or my management of myself, or both, I don't know ;
but I am in perfect health and perfectly free from blue devils.
Present my best regards to David, Mr.. Sedgwick, and all our
friends about you. I am your affectionate brother,
P. V. S.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 1st Bee, 1783.
My dear Brother :
Our friends Mr. and Mrs. H. are at length arrived, and I am
already embarked in his service. I trust I have evinced the sin
cerity of my heart, and my warm gratitude for the favors he has
shown you, by the manner in which I have tendered him my best offi
ces. The amiable woman shall experience my strictest attention.
My time, and the whole of my slender abilities shall be his. How
ever wrapped up in my own concerns I may be thought to be, be
assured, my dear brother, that no man existing devotes himself
more to his friends than I do. For whom am I employed, often
from morning to night, and what is my reward ? Many, many I
trust would testify that I am not mercenary. My considerations
of property are not to accumulate, but to save. According to
Swift, " I have property in my head, not in my heart." This has
kept me independent even in poverty. There might have been a
little more indulgence, without any " excess of charity."
Your account of the scarcity of goods at New- York, which
would probably take place if the Effingham did not arrive, aston
ishes every body but me ; — there too poor Pil-Garlic was hooted
at, for giving an opinion at the time the ship was about sailing.
Your affectionate brother and friend,
P. V. S.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 349
' Your observations about Mr. J.'s discrimination are dictated by
benevolence, but are founded upon a perfection in human nature
which is merely ideal. Who is it that can cast the first stone ?
Suppose the event had been different. To find a race of beings
free from passion, we must travel with Gulliver, and find out a
land of Hounheims — but even they banished. Read the history of
this virtuous nation. How often have the " sons been obliged to
blush their fathers had been foes" to the best characters. We
must distinguish abstract from practical perfection. All human
excellence is but relative and comparative. Would I had been
able to explain myself properly !
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK. London, 14th Bee, 1783.
My dear Brother :
Long ere this I hope you are safely fixed at Pittsfield, and I
trust that by this time the evacuation of New-York is completed —
that bone of contention, that source of irritation and animosity re
moved. I hope all parties will see the necessity of oblivion, and
cultivate the arts of peace. This, however, must be a work of
some time ; but every individual, in his sphere, should contribute
his mite towards it. I cannot help still cherishing the hope of
seeing America a happy country ; but when I speak of happiness,
I mean it in a relative, a comparative sense. In comparing the
situation of two countries, we are apt to look through different
ends of the glass. For my part, I have endeavored to form my
notions with candor and impartiality, and have never failed to
consider both sides of the question. Such illiberality, such an un-
philosophic view of this extensive business, even ^mong men of
some education, and who have been in the world, I own I had no
conception of. From what strange principles do men take even
the right side !
It is my constant prayer that I may be preserved from unchari-
tableness, and I bless God (I hope not pharisaically) that revenge,
envy and hatred are strangers to my breast. A civil war is an
epitome of all human wretchedness. The human heart will be
shocked with the enormities we daily hear of, but the philosophic
mind will not be surprised at them, because (so all history

350 the life of
proves) they are natural, though sad concomitants of this dreadful
visitation. The effects of an earthquake or a pestilence, do not
more necessarily flow from their respective causes. If I could have
expected such a magnanimous conduct, as some people stigmatize
the Americans for being worse than other nations in not pursuing,
if I could in short suppose that they would have acted from the
pure dictates of reason without any mixture of passion, I should
blush to have ever been in opposition to them. They would then
have been what no other nation under heaven ever was. God
forbid I should ever extenuate one instance of cruelty or injustice,
but let us not draw inferences from them, beyond what they will
fairly warrant. The imperfections of man accompany him in
every situation he happens to be placed in. Let it be our endeavor
to lessen, according to our several situations, the aggregate of
human misery, and let us not catch that spirit of rancor which we
condemn in others. The malignity of men can go but to a certain
degree, and no farther, and let us rely on Providence with respect
to its bounds.
You may perhaps think this theoretic, abstract reasoning, and
not consonant to that cast of temper you may have supposed me to
possess, and therefore rather a momentary effusion of the heart,
than a steady principle of conduct and character. If this is your
idea, be assured you do not know me. The irregularities of my
disposition extend only to those occurrences of life, where I think
inconveniences might have been prevented by common attention
and ordinary prudence, and do not break out in murmurs against
the general course of human affairs, and the general economy and
administration of Providence. In the first case, we may reason,
object, and even censure; in the other, "to reason right, is to
submit." You may think that I have labored these points, and dealt too
much in egotism, but I wish you to know me such as I am, for I
would neither have your good or bad opinion upon any other
ground. I shall always be glad to have your reasonings, for by
such a friendly and brotherly intercourse, we may mutually benefit
each other. This state of existence is a transitory one ; neverthe
less our obligations to society are great and extensive, and par
ticularly so in the arduous scenes we have been and are engaged

peter van schaack. 351
in. To acquire just principles, and a right manner of thinking,
should be our object, for we shall yet have many occasions for
self-examination, whether we are guided by reason, or hurried
away by the impulse of passion. I believe I was never much
actuated by party or personal enmity, but if I ever have been, these
passions are now totally at an end, or swallowed up in the great
object of the happiness of a country, which (not to mention the
great and comprehensive principles of philanthropy and benevo
lence) contains my nearest and dearest connections. Let me be
seech you to seek contentment in your present situation, without
any retrospect to the past, or any desire to change. It is wisdom
rather to bear the ills you have, than fly to others you know not of.
To make the best of our actual situation and present circumstances,
instead of repining at what we have lost, or hankering after what
we cannot attain, will be our plan. Life, altogether, is a strange
business. I will endeavor to make the best of it, and strive to
lessen, not to multiply its evils.
You will not fail to remember me in the most affectionate man
ner to our amiable friend Mr. S. to whom I wrote by Coupar. The
Athenians dedicated a temple to clemency. If such a one should
be built in America, I think our friend should be the high priest *
 Mitis posuit clement [A sedem,
Et miseri fecere sacram 
Hue victi bellis, scelerumque errore nocentes,
Conveniunt, pacemque rogant.t
Let Harry and Francis have this scrap. Heaven bless you all !
Yours most warmly,
P. V. S.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 31st Becember, 1783.
My dear Brother :
I write this via Phila., to acquaint you with the safe arrival of
your papers by Col. L. I long to hear from you after your arrival
* The friend alluded to is Theodore Sedgwick.
\ I wish you would contrive to let the boys read Shakspeare's Measure
for Measure, and the Merchant of Venice, for the sake of some passages,
breathing this sort of spirit. — Excuse these puerilities if you think them so.
Let the boys' heads be as strong as they please, but let their hearts be soft.

352

THE LIFE OF

at your place of abode. These people will immortalize themselves
by a liberal conduct. I hope I shall have many materials to ex
patiate upon, in support of ideas I have in all companies advanced,'
in favor of their national character. Much obloquy have I incurred
by it. The peaceable, orderly manner in which possession was
taken of New-York, has fulfilled my predictions ; but I was Cas
sandra. I shall really not know what to do with the remittances. All
should not be embarked in one bottom. The lot on the wharf, in a
city that bids fair to be a distinguished one in the world, in which
if I do not, some of the children will probably live, was what I
wished. 1 have written to Mr. N. C. to waive the purchase, and
between you and me I would give him any reasonable sum to do
it. I cannot help my manner of thinking, but that must be my
guide, erroneous as it may be. If I am wrong, and those right, who
have been so eager to remit all they could to this country, they may
congratulate themselves on their sagacity, but for my part, I would
rather my little property was at New-York than here. Amazing
quantities of dollars have been sent hitherto from Yew-York, and I
am told large sums from Boston also !
Your strictures upon  's letter are natural enough ; and the
last upon " not many" is just — the other passage I think is not al
together exceptionable. Before we condemn a man's conduct or
sentiments in an arduous situation, we must make it our own. We
must not try other people by those rules of perfection we fall so1
much short of ourselves. You know my sentiments on these sub
jects so fully, that I need not explain. I have been a little mortified by ,
being taxed by some of your best friends, with having held very vision
ary doctrines. In epistolary correspondences, much is left to the
person written to. A man cannot always express all the qualifica
tions, explanations, restrictions, illustrations, &c, which, were he
to address the public, he would be bound to do. His friend will
supply these if he can ; if he cannot, he will suppress the whole.
Language at best has its difficulties, as the medium to convey ideas
upon delicate subjects. People who have been in the habits of
familiar intercourse, both in writing and speaking, know each other's
style. The same expressions to them or to strangers, will receive
very different constructions. In a series of letters for a length of.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 353
time, parts are not to be taken in a detached manner, but the
whole in connection. For some such reasons I have avoided writ
ing to many valuable friends. All do not understand the force of
language. To my brothers, I thought I could confide my inmost
thoughts. They would know what might be mentioned, and what
ought to be suppressed. In both the one and the other my reputation
would be consulted.
Your very tender mention of my dear boy, has greatly affected
my sensibility. By that you do me more essential services than by
sending me guineas. My affectionate regard to all friends.
Yours affectionately, P. V. S.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
London, 30th Becember, 1783.
My dear Brother :
As I shall be uncommonly engaged, in consequence of the ar
rivals from New -York, I will immediately begin a letter to you in
my old-fashioned way, and acknowledge the receipt of your letters
by Dr. J. and Col. L. with a bundle of papers.
What you say of Mrs. R., &c, was a thunder-clap to me. But
I will not regret what I have done, embarked as I have been, with
my usual zeal for my friends, in his cause. I paid a tribute to old
remembrances and former friendships. I have gratified feelings
not ungenerous. I envy not the feelings, or the want of feeling, of
those who can receive favors they do not merit. We owe obliga
tions to society, as such, independent of personal considerations.
,"4It is not sufficient, that we refuse to do acts of kindness in our sphere
to 'individuals, because they have not done such to us. If gratitude
and retribution were to be our only motives to acts of beneficence,
what would become of the amiable virtues of benevolence and phi
lanthropy ? Who would be the first mover ? " On mutual wants
build mutual happiness," is the essence of society. I dare say many
persons have been kind to my children and connections, to whom
¦ I shall never be able to repay their favors. I have, indeed, like
you, seen the deformed parts of human nature, but these instances
have rather melted my heart with pity, (for are they not our fellow
creatures ?) than hardened it with misanthropy. I can hate the vice
while I commiserate the agent. What we call prosperous, we see
45

354 the life op
villains every day ; but we know not the tax they pay for their
prosperity. Well says the admirable poet :
"Alas! not dazzled with their noontide ray,
Compute the morn and evening to the day,"
How I long to be with you. Little jarrings I expect could not
be avoided, but I trust they would only serve to make the harmony
more complete. If my letters appear unimportant, you will at
least excuse them, when you consider that they amuse, soothe or
disburthen my mind, as they supply the place of a personal and
more endearing intercourse. I am often pensive, sometimes un
happy, frequently vexed, but seldom, if ever, gloomy. Of the
aggregate of human misery, I think (and I bless God for it) I have
not an undue share. Heaven bless you all.
Yours ever, P. V. S.
FROM HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
Richmond, Jan. 10th, 1784.
My dear Brother :
I wrote you soon after I arrived at G. Barrington. The day
following David and I had our trial before two justices, upon the
exclusion acts, and I am happy to inform you, that it was judged
we did not come within the description of that law, whereupon we
took an oath of fidelity to this Commonwealth. As my business
lays here, I removed immediately up from the lower part of the
county. As soon as I came, the people of all ranks, with very
few exceptions, flocked to me, and I can with truth say, that I am
now much happier than 1 have been since the year 1776. All is
peace. Decency, order and sobriety, seem to prevail as much as
if there had been no civil war. I never in my life saw any people
come so nearly to the morality of Swift's Hounheims as my pre
sent townsmen. Fortunately for me, that my character as a
trader, and my reputation as a magistrate, among them, was uni
versally well spoken of, and when contrasted with the new men
at Kinderhook, it gives me more weight and consequence, and this
you will be the more surprised at, when I tell you that the greater
number of the inhabitants owed me before the war, and their ac
counts stood open when I came here, which I am now daily clo
sing, and those who owe me allow interest as cheerfully as if my

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 355
demands were in bonds and notes. We have no house-breaking,
robberies, cursing, swearing, tavern-haunting, or scarce a scene of
immorality. I am entreated by every town where I am acquainted in this
county, to take up my residence and engage in trade. Was I
about thirty years old, I know of no fairer prospect to accumulate
wealth, either in the wholesale or retailing way. But as I need
not involve myself again, having got pretty well through my debts,
I believe I shall not in a great hurry be indebted in large sums for
the future. Besides, my affairs stand much better than I feared
they would when I left New-York. The patrimonial estate, too,
wears a more flattering aspect than I had reason to believe. Be
assured, I shall separate the tares from the corn, and take care of
the latter for you. I have put out two hundred pounds lawful of
your children's money, to the town of Stockbridge, the committee
consisting of Timothy Edwards, J. Woodbridge and Elijah Brown,
Esquires. The rest of the money I shall do with, after a little in
quiry, as shall seem most beneficial to the children and you, for I
can get the best security here for money, and that so as to receive
the interest punctually. These considerations will hinder me from
remitting any more of the children's money to England, especially
as law, order, and good government now universally prevail.
This Commonwealth has to boast, what perhaps no people on
earth could ever say before, and which is, that they have been the
prop of the confederacy in carrying on the war, and after a strug
gle of seven years, they have established a good government, and
never executed a single man for' his political principles. When
this fact is handed down to posterity, by the faithful pages of his
tory, ages hence will rank the Massachusetts among the first people
in the world. This is a theme I could be copious on, but business
forbids it. Your affectionate brother,
Henry Van Schaack.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK. London, 21th May, 1784.
My dear Brother :
I have already written you a very long letter by Coupar, but as
my excursion into the country is put off for the present, I will give
you a few paragraphs more.

356 THELIFEOF .
The people in the State of New-York are much censured for
their rigor, while the other States are almost every one relaxing.
This is certainly bad policy. As a State, there are many jealous
eyes fixed upon them — they need not increase the number of their
enemies. I have almost come to a determination to spend my
days in the Massachusetts commonwealth, of the order and. good
government of which you give me so very pleasing an account.
Our family were always upon the best terms with the people of
that State, and during my exile, I own to you my affections to them
were much strengthened. To know the excellence of their police,
and their virtue as a people, you should have been in Europe ; the
comparison would strike you very forcibly. Alas ! you can have
no conception of the state of things in the Old World.
I am much importuned to go to the new settlements in Nova
Scotia, &c, and I have no doubt but I could get some appointment
over and above the flattering prospects which are held up to me
in the line of my profession. For a moment 1 am captivated with
these suggestions, but my heart still turns to my friends and con
nections. Wealth I have really no desire of possessing, nor will I
ever resume my profession, unless I should again form a domestic
connection. Upon that subject I am quite free, and mean to remain
so till I get back to my native country, or am settled elsewhere.
That I have sometimes had my sensibility awakened, you will
easily imagine ; but nothing serious as you seem to have supposed.
Tell my friend S. to look out for me.
Remember me affectionately to all my friends, to Jane particu
larly. Your affectionate brother and friend, P. V. Schaack.
I am now studying the constitution of your commonwealth, and
shall be glad occasionally to have your remarks upon the execution
of this fine piece of political mechanism, and the courts of justice,
and the administration of the laws.
TO THE SAME. London, 8th June, 1784.
My dear Brother :
I was made very happy with your letter by the packet, which
I shall answer in the sequel.
You have not made me a convert, by your arguments about the

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 357
method of dealing with some people. I must persist in my own
system, until I find that I shall better promote my happiness by
altering it. You say, " pity it is that I am so far advanced in life,
that I have not a reasonable prospect of being benefited," &c.
Excuse me, but this is an unphilosophic reflection. You have no
reason to complain of your natural or acquired endowments ; you
have your full share. Would you wish for a still greater pre
eminence over many of your fellow-creatures, or do you wish that
they should be advanced in the same proportion with yourself? Is
not the first a little selfish, and as to the last, does it not defeat the
very purpose of your wish by leaving the relative proportion, or
rather disproportion, the same ? Besides, the more one knows, the
more does he perceive the follies of his fellow-beings, and the
more is he shocked with them.
"Painful pre-eminence ! yourself to view
Above life's weakness and its comforts too !"
I find I am sliding into Pope's system of optimism, which, however,
in fact is the doctrine of my mind, and the result of my reasoning
and experience. The Essay on Man has its exceptionable parts,
but it is a noble performance. By the way, I could wish you to
select some of its beauties, and occasionally point them out to your
namesake; a few lines at a time properly explained, would give
him a relish for those fine strokes with which some of our poets
abound. I suppose you are too deeply involved in business to read
much ; but sometimes recurring to those performances from which
in earlier life you derived pleasure, will renew the pleasing effect.
You was an admirer of Shakspeare. I wish Harry may be so,
though I own I rather admire him in parts, than in the whole ; his
gold is mixed with much dross, but then it is of the finest standard.
I have not seen so much of H — as I wished. This town is so
very extensive, and my acquaintances so numerous and at such
great distances from me, that I cannot keep up a regular course of
visiting, especially as I spend great part of my mornings at home,
and do not go out like some people and saunter away from break
fast time till dinner. Besides,! have acquaintances almost in every
direction from the metropolis for twelve miles around it, whom, in
this fine season, it is conducive to health, as well as amusement, to

358 THE LIFE of
visit. Some of my friends may think me remiss in the article of
visiting, but none of them I trust will charge me with neglect when
business enabled me to do them service.
As I occasionally mention our country-folks of merit, let me do
justice to Mrs. Church, General Schuyler's daughter, an elegant,
amiable woman. I waited upon her as my countrywoman, -and
left a card, after which I met her in a little party, wiien she told
me Mr. C. would have returned my visit if he had known my
address. Since that, I have spent an evening, and am to dine
with her to-morrow, and in the evening shall be one of a large
party to Vauxhall. I was much pleased, indeed, with the polite,
easy and friendly reception I met with from this lady, and the more
so from the prejudices I imagined she might have taken up against
me. The mind that can overcome prejudices must have merit.
For my part, I declare I have enmity to no human being ; I will
not disturb the tranquillity of my heart or its enjoyments, by any
of the malignant passions. Perfect or unmixed there is no charac
ter, and I will rather find out the favorable, than the unfavorable
traits ; I trust, however, I know where to bestow my esteem, while
I give my good will to all. This little chit-chat, I hope, will not
be tiresome to you ; I am happy that the time is arrived when we
can substitute it for the more important, though more dreadful
events of war and contention.
Adieu. My affectionate remembrance to my mother, and all
my brothers and sisters as if named. Yours sincerely,
P. V. S.
TO THE SAME.
London, 30th June, 1784.
My dear Brother :
I have received your several letters down to the 17th May.
I shall not, I believe, be able to do any thing with your memoran
dum. The idea here is that America is overstocked with goods,
for which she never will be able to pay. It is supposed to be a
land of misery, inhabited by beggars without law or government ;
and because I will not believe this, and all the d  d execrable
nonsense which has come from New- York for these five years past,
I am abused as an apostate. We have very direct intelligence

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 359
that New-York is depopulated, that you walk the streets for hours
without meeting a living creature, except now and then a half-
starved poor devil, that nobody ever saw before, and who, like a
mushroom, has popped out of the dunghill of R — 1 — n. In this
country, all is wealth and happiness !
Your observations upon the propensity to the plaintive and
pathetic in our family, is I believe well founded, nor does it lessen
them in my opinion on that score. People of sensibility cannot
bear inattentions. Reverse the picture. Suppose them insensible
of neglects and slights, and what good is to be expected from
them ? My not mentioning my friends by name is easily accounted
for, and I have reasoned upon the subject to Mrs. Silvester, to my
own conviction, and that, I hope, of others.
Remember me affectionately to my mother and all my rela
tions, particularly to your wife, whom I love with the affection of
a brother. Yours sincerely, P. V. S.
FROM FRANCIS SILVESTER.
Kinderhook, 14th May, 1784.
Honored Sir :
I was made particularly happy on the receipt of your letter,
and more so as it was the first I ever received from you.
How happens it that I always shed tears when I read your
letters? Can it proceed from the peculiar sensibility I feel in
perusing them, or from your pathetic manner of expression ? I
cannot tell which.
I hope I may always continue to merit your esteem, but what
ever may be my fortune that way, I shall endeavor to. Your
advice is very salutary, and it shall not be wanting in me to put it
into practice. The information you received about the friendship
and harmony in which Harry and myself live, is truth pure and
unadulterated ; our friendship is mutual. Your candor, sir, is equal
to your merit, and demands my warmest thanks.
Uncle David and uncle Harry are returned from B  m.
'Universal marks of joy were manifested on the occasion. I hope
your return will not be long hence. My grandmamma seems to
; wish for almost nothing else but to see you. I am sensible you
are touched to the heart, when the least mention is made of your

360

THE LIFE OF

mother ; every letter/that you have written proves the truth of this
assertion ; and whenever you are spoken of she sheds a tear. Little
Cornelius is her favorite ; she convinces him of her affection by
giving him a small present, as Indian sugar, cookies, &c. ; and if
she has nothing else, she gives him a kiss — " oscula libavit." The
same love she shows to little Betsey, though not in so great a «
degree ; Betsey wants not for friends. They are all well.
* Harry has received his gun and watch. You say in his letter,
" he must not show the least signs of vanity." I can assure you,
with a great deal of pleasure, that he is extremely modest with it,
rather too much so.
All our friends are well, and join in love and affection to you.
May the blessings of Heaven be plentifully poured on your head ;
and peace be your portion in this life, and endless felicity in that
to come ; is the sincere wish and ardent prayer of, sir,
Your dutiful and affectionate nephew, Francis Silvester.
TO FRANCIS SILVESTER. London, 11th August, 1784.
My dear Francis :
I was afraid I should not have been able to write to you by
this ship, as I am just going out of town for a few weeks; but your
last letter is so good a one, that I cannot resist the pleasure of
telling you, how much I was pleased with it. Praise to an ingen
uous mind, is an incentive to good actions, and to a perseverance
in the line of meritorious conduct ; and such I am confident will
be its effects upon you. Consult your own heart, my dear Francis,
and you will find such a pleasure resulting from the practice of
virtue, and the improvement of your mind to that end, that I am
confident you will never deviate from the principles you have hith
erto pursued. It is of the studies which contribute to these noble
purposes, that Tully says, hcec studia adolescentiam alunt, senectu-
tem delectant — you know the rest, and can fill up this blank. «
I shall hope to hear from you as often as you have leisure, and
the more circumstantial you are, in your account of the course of
your studies, the more acceptable will your letters be. Let me

peter van schaack. 361
recommend attention to you, and that will enable you at once to
profit by your studies, and to render a satisfactory account of them
to others. Conversation with your companions, and comparing
your observations with theirs upon what you have been reading,
will greatly strengthen your memory. You should never read a
vbook, without being able to extract some useful remarks out of it.
Jf it should be so barren as to contain none such, then you should
make i strictures and criticisms upon it. I am sorry there are any
books of the last description, but it is in our day as it was in Ho
race's ; scribimus docti, indoctique. Every Saturday, you should
take a retrospect to what you have been doing in the course of the
week, and reflect how much you have added to the stock of your
knowledge, since Monday morning. When any good observations
occur to you, or if you hear any from your companions, commit
them to paper ; so with regard to any doubts or difficulties, which
may arise in the course of your reading or reflection. Be very
free in stating them to me, or any other of your friends. What
is your opinion of the conduct of the first Brutus, in passing sen
tence upon his own children, and of the other, in putting Caesar to
death? I was very much pleased with your pretty quotation of the
osatla libavit of Virgil, as that and other circumstances lead me to
think you are fond of that sweet, admirable poet. You are doubt
less charmed with the lines on Marcellus, in the sixth book, and
you must read the notes to explain the occasion of them. The
story of Nysus and Euryalus, I dare say engaged your attention
and sympathy. You will be so kind as to make an apology for
my riot writing to your sister, Peter Van Alen, and your cousin
Polly V. S., to whom I am under obligations for their obliging let
ters, which must from necessity remain unanswered for the pre
sent. Remember me in the most dutiful manner to your grand
mamma. I send a small globe for the use of your cousin Harry and your-
4 self, if you are together, otherwise I will send another, with any
books or mathematical apparatus which you will point out.
I am, my dear Francis,
Your affectionate uncle,
Peter Van Schaack.
46

362 THE LIFE of

TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK. London, 10th July, 1784.
My dear Brother :
By Mr. Kemble, who sailed from the Downs the 6th, in the
Resolution,. I have written you in answer to your favors down to
the  May. Captain Stout, by whom your letters came, had a
passage of only twenty days to Portsmouth, as the packet had of
nineteen to Falmouth.
I took an early opportunity after the peace, to hint that my
. peculiar situation, I thought, if properly considered, would entitle
me to the interposition of government in our State, to get me ex
empted from the penalties of the act ; but you have never taken
any notice of this matter in any of your letters, further than saying
that you would speak to some of my friends. I hear Governor C.
says there is no impediment to my return, as he exchanged me as
a British prisoner ; but you will find by the act, that as the Com
missioners have recorded me with the rest, the executive power
could not free me from the penalties consequential to that measure,
as that would be exercising a dispensing power in the face of a
sentence founded on a legislative act. You will recollect what
passed between me and the Commissioners, who, I should think,
would do me justice on the occasion. I think my case, under all
its circumstances, affords an opportunity of doing something hand
some in the manner of my recall — it ought not to be blended with
others. It does not become me to suggest particulars, but if my
friends are as attentive to me as I should be to them, it will be un
necessary to say any thing more upon the subject.
You should be pretty early with all your memorandums, that I
may have time to fill them in the spring. I never had a more
firm determination on any subject, than to go over next May ; I
believe in the packet. I trust Providence will spare my life, to
enable me once more to embrace my dear friends at Kinderhook.
My mother, I have my fears about. God bless you all !
Yours affectionately,
P. V. S.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 363
TO PETER SILVESTER. London, 15th August, 1784.
My dear Sir :
I have lately written to you, but recollect that I took no notice
of something you say of a pair of globes. The misfortune is, that
I am now on the eve of departing on a journey to Yorkshire, and
your letters with my other papers are packed up, so that I cannot
recur to what you said upon the subject.
If you have leisure, pray say something of the causes of most
consequence which have lately been decided, or which will be sub
judice, when I hope to arrive next summer, (which by the by T
shall endeavor to do before the circuit.) Any issues in law, upon
demurrers, special pleadings, or special verdicts, grounded upon
the construction of the old or of the new laws, I should be glad to
have a short state of. I have not read much law since I have
been here, but one or two cases in which I was consulted, I sifted
to the bottom ; nor have I attended the courts sufficiently to form
any accurate observations. This winter 1 shall perhaps devote
a little more of my time to professional information ; but it is
not my intention to resume my practice even if I should be permit
ted to do so.
I am very much flattered, with the friendly disposition which
you mention to be entertained for me by some respectable charac
ters in the State of New- York, particularly Judge Yates, whom I
ever considered as a man of a clear, and a strong head ; and I
doubt not but he fills his office with ability and uprightness. If be
again mentions my name, pray present my best compliments to
him. Mr. Cruger informs me that Judge Hobart has also spoke
favorably of me. The Governor, I shall write to ; as I feel myself
under great obligations to him, for his recollection of what passed
between him and me when I saw him last, and for his determination
to act up to it. His manly, spirited, and consistent conduct, as the
chief magistrate of the State, is often mentioned here in a very hon
orable way. I assure you, I promise myself much happiness in
my native country, of which I shall endeavor to make myself a
useful member of society, as far as my contracted sphere will ad
mit -of. For my part I have no enmities, political or personal, and'

364 THE LIFE OF
I trust I shall be allowed to begin de novo, and to be tested by my
future conduct, without a retrospect to what is past ; for, between
you and me, the most distant appearance of a retraction of principle
I never will submit to, be the consequence what it may. If my
old principles of government in general, applied to the present
establishment, are supposed incompatible with its welfare, and will
render me an object of jealousy or suspicion, I shall bid adieu to the
State of New- York, as much as I shall continue to wish its pros
perity. I would wish to know the terms upon which I am to be admit
ted, before I land at New-York, and enter upon my citizenship ;
for doubts upon this subject would be unpleasant companions upon
my passage, and I mention this so early, that, my friends may
have time to write me explicitly about a matter in which my feel
ings are deeply interested. I think the less my relations and par
ticular friends say about me at present, except confidentially to
some of the principal characters, the better. About the month of
January, my return may be more publicly mentioned. Perhaps
you will think, I make myself of much more consequence than I
am ; but I think I have reasons to exculpate me, if I could enter
fully into them. I have certain ideas of a consistency of character
which I would wish to act up to; not for the sake of public ap
plause, (that I neither wish nor could hope to obtain,) but for the
gratification of my own mind. I find 1 have great pride, but its
objects are not the objects of either wealth or ambition.
Adieu ! my tenderest remembrance to my mother my sister
and the children. Yours affectionately, P. V. S.
FROM HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
My dear Brother :
Your several letters of the 19th and 27th May, 30th June,
10th and 21st July, remain all unanswered, owing to want of
time and want of health, and the want of the latter makes writing
and reading painful to me in the extreme. I scarce ever take up
my pen but when I am compelled to write, which, by the by, is
almost every day of my life, and so many concerns have I on my

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 365
hands, that I can never go abroad for recreation but my amuse
ments are clogged with business of my own, or the paternal estate.
Besides all this, since the month of May, we moved out our effects
twice ; once to Stockbridge, and since, from there to this place.
Here I have made an advantageous purchase, and live in the midst
of those who owe. I have made some other purchases about me,
and I have a number of mortgages in the neighborhood, so that, in
all probability, I shall be a considerable landholder in a little time.
The farm I live on I bought for four hundred seventy-four
pounds York money, and contains eighty-six acres good land, with
a tolerable good house, barn, and a young orchard, and a pleasant
lake in sight of me. In my life-time, I never lived among a more
civil, obliging people. During my residence in Richmond I
never was a witness to swearing, drunkenness, or a breach of
Sabbath, or, in short, any flagrant trespass upon morality. A purse
of gold hung up in the public streets, would be as safe from our
inhabitants as it used to be in the great Alfred's time. Beggars
and vagrants we are strangers to, as well as overbearing, purse-
proud scoundrels. Provisions we abound in — beef, veal, mutton
and lamb, in the spring, summer and fall, we buy at 2d. lawful
per pound ; in winter, beef and mutton 2}d. and 3d. — every thing
else in proportion, and very plenty. I throw out this by way of
bait to get you here, and of caution not to determine upon a resi
dence elsewhere.
I have just returned from Vermont. I took your son Harry
and F. Silvester in my sleigh, who, as well as myself, were much
pleased with the jaunt. We met with agreeable society and very
good fare. In Bennington, we lived in a style much beyond what
I had any conception of, and so we did in Manchester, about twen
ty-five miles farther. We paid our respects in going and returning
to his excellency Governor Chittenden, who is a conversant, plea
sant old gentleman, and as much superior to what I had conceived
of him, as the town of Bennington exceeds Kinderhook, in the ele
gance and taste of building and living. In travelling sixty-four
miles and back again, four days out, lived extraordinary well all
the time, and among other things, dined upon boiled turkey and
oyster sauce, at Manchester. The whole expense of our bill while
we were out, horse-keeping in the bargain, was twenty-six shil-

366 THE LIFE of
lings eight pence York money apiece. Add to the advantages of
travelling, that your person and property on the road and in the
inns are perfectly safe. Murders, robberies, burglaries or petty
larcenies, are scarce heard of in this country. So perfectly am I
satisfied with the manners, customs and laws of this common
wealth, that I would not exchange for any other I know of in the
world. It will be difficult for you to believe, at so great a distance,
that immediately after the horrors of a civil war, the new govern
ment should have force and energy, the morals and religion of the
inhabitants apparently as pure and uncorrupt as they were at their
best, a number of years before the late distractions. It is surpri
sing that no more people in middling stations of life do not leave
the old world and come hither. It is true, the public calamities
have brought heavy burthens, but these become lighter, and will
be more and more so every year. The epitome of human misery
(I mean the civil war) in this country, has been accompanied with
a failure of crops for some years back, which have added to the
sufferings of the inhabitants. The last season has been an extra
ordinary one for the farmers to get their grain in the ground, and
thus far every thing promises well, as the ground has been covered
with snow since the middle of December last.
If any of your friends wish to migrate, by way of inducement,
you may assure them that lands are cheap and good in Berkshire.
Building materials of every sort in great plenty. All that I now
want in this my delightful retreat, is a few people of your cast
about me. Come over to us, and we will meet with such cordi
ality, love and friendship, that we shall, in our brotherly embraces,
forget that we ever differed upon any single point.
Your affectionate brother,
Henry Van Schaack.
TO DAVID VAN SCHAACK.
Beverley, Yorkshire, 26th Sept., 1784
My dear Brother :
Your letter of the 20th July, was forwarded to me from Lon
don to this place, where I have been a month, and shall remain
some time longer.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 367
What you say of the mansion house, my dear David, gives me
pleasure. With all my petulance, I would not have found fault,
had you upon the spot determined to sell it ; and I shall still acquiesce
do as you like ; but I own my heart is a little engaged in this mat
ter, and I have sensations towards that place which I cannot ex
press. It would hurt me to see it in the hands of a stranger. This
may be weakness ; but it is from these little weaknesses that our
greatest pleasures flow. Philosophy teaches us to bear the ills of
life with fortitude, but does not require of us insensibility to the
innocent enjoyments of it. You know my finances, and there
fore will be able to judge how far I can afford to take this place.
I must live upon my interest, for I dare not rest any hopes upon my
being able to practice, the situation of my eyesight being so very
precarious. It answers my present purpose well enough, but were
I to go into business, I know myself so well, that I could not con
fine myself to a moderate share of reading or writing ; and I might,
by an excess of either, precipitate a crisis, which I owe it to myself
to keep off as long as possible. Nevertheless, I intend to devote
more of my time this winter than I have yet done, to my profes
sion : but my friends, I fear, will be much disappointed in their ex
pectations of the improvements I have made under those advan
tages which they probably suppose I have had by being in England.
However, such as I am, I hope they will be satisfied with me.
I spend my time very pleasantly here, and in the neighborhood
of this place, which is near two hundred miles from London, and
am in the most perfect health and spirits. My chief time is spent
among the ladies, who are very polite, sociable, and therefore
agreeable : by this means, I enjoy a very pleasing relaxation, in a
wholesome country air, and having a riding-horse and a carriage
whenever I choose to command either, I take a wonderful deal of
exercise. The women are very numerous, and I mix in their little
parties, old and young, and am grave or merry according to the
humor of my company. The pleasing hope of soon seeing my
native country is an exhaustless source of spirits to me, while my
cheerfulness is probably imputed to a native flow of good humor,
which I fear you will not allow me to be entitled to. At any rate,
I flatter myself the people I associate with are pleased to see me
so happy in their society. I travel with a disposition to be pleased,

368 • THELIFEOF
and do not, like some of our countrymen, find fault with what I
cannot menu". This is a fine country, and almost throughout a
perfect garden. You can have no conception how highly culti
vated and improved it is : but I will be bold to say, that a benevo
lent mind wilffind more real, rational gratification in America.
I have been more than once complimented upon my candor in
comparing the two countries together, as well as to the natural as
the social advantages of either. Prejudice I abhor.
You make me very happy by telling me how well my mother
is, and how satisfactorily situated with that, best of women, our
sister P. ; and you may be sure, I feel sincere pleasure in the ac
count you give of her worthy husband's getting ahead, in these
untoward times. To make the evening of our aged parent's life
easy and happy, should be the object of us all ; and for my part, I
give unlimited power to contribute towards it from my little stock,
and I entreat you to be my almoner upon this occasion, or any
other that you think a proper one, for bestowing a seasonable relief.
We ought to make it as easy as possible to our sister, in taking a
charge upon her which is equally the duty of us all. We have all
reason to be thankful for our condition in life, and to whom do we
owe it ?
I hope Coupar will bring me letters — I don't like chasms in
correspondences; they should be chains in which every link is
preserved. Their continuity and connection gives them all their
strength. God bless you, my dear David and Catharine ; and remember
me most tenderly to my mother and all friends.
Yours affectionately,
P. V. S.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 369

CHAPTER XVII.
It was an admirable commentary upon the interesting and
eloquent letters written by Mr. Van Schaack from England to his
connections in America, contained in the letter to him from his
young American friend, who had enjoyed the perusal of many of
those letters at the time — " How happens it that I always shed
tears when I read your letters ? Can it proceed from the peculiar
sensibility I feel in perusing them, or from your pathetic manner
of expression ? I cannot tell which." We scarcely know which
most to admire, the merit of epistolary productions which could
make so pleasing an impression upon a youthful mind, or the
touching simplicity of language and expression, with which an idea
of that impression is conveyed, by his young correspondent. The
author will make no apology for having given to those letters so
large a place in this work. When, in connection with their peru
sal, it is stated, that Peter Van Schaack was a man of sincerity and
of candor ; that the expressions contained in these letters are not
mere unmeaning phrases, but that the existence, in their author, of
the amiable traits of character which they imply, was demonstrated
by a pure and unsophisticated life and practice of fourscore years, —
the reader will appreciate their value, in forming an estimate of the
character of Peter Van Schaack. A few letters to and from par-
, ticular friends will now be given, and these will close his corres
pondence from England. TO THEODORE SEDGWICK. London, 23d Oct., 1783.
My dear Sir :
I have often taken up my pen to write to you, but so many
subjects have occurred upon which I wished to enlarge, that I
47 *v

370 THE LIFE OF
have been discouraged by the great variety, and the difficulty of
making a choice of any — ter cecidere manus.
My brother sent me two letters with which you have honored
him, in which I am happy to find such marked traits of the well-
, known character of my liberal-minded friend. My brothers, I
hope, are by this time settled near you. They engage much of my
anxiety ; but my hopes, though mingled with fears and apprehen
sions, will preponderate. It cannot be, that men whose confidence
and friendship we formerly had, and with whom we have so long
lived in habits of friendly intercourse, should bear any animosity to
us, or retain any jealousies, when the objects of them (however
well founded heretofore) are now no longer in existence. Such
are the feelings of my mind on this occasion, that I should be
happy to be put to the ordeal. There is nothing certain in this life,
but in this case I have an animated assurance, upon which I would
stake my fate. I shall not, I believe, write to them till I hear of
their situation ; which you will be pleased to mention, with an
acknowledgment of the favor of their late letters, one of which was
particularly interesting.
My own destiny is yet undecided, and must depend on future
events^ At present, I think of going out next spring ; but where
is yet uncertain. The measures adopted after the evacuation, will
decide the point. Till that event, I own that I, who endeavor to
view things upon a large scale, and never condemn any man or
set of men without putting myself in their situation, and without
judging of them as I would be judged of, do not think that any
systematic proceedings can be expected. I hold any judgment of
the future founded upon the present proceedings only, and without
regard to the great constituent principles of human nature, to
be quite premature. I expect from my countrymen at large, the
conduct of men, not of angels or demons, philosophers or savages.
But enough of this.
You will easily suppose when you consult your own heart, who
the chief objects of my anxiety are, during this painful absence. I
am not actuated by ambitious views with respect to my children ;
and if I have a wish that my son should be a man of letters and
abilities, it is^ I do assure you, but secondary to the consideration
of morals and a good disposition. To promote this, as conducive

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 371
to the happiness of a child, ought to be the first object, as it is
the first duty of a parent. It may perhaps seem strange, but I own
that if there is a difference between the parental and filial obliga
tion, in my opinion the former is the greatest. Science and learn
ing, unless they are the handmaids of virtue, and by that avenue,
to happiness, are, I think, mere sounds. This general idea I could
wish to be the polar star, by which the education of my children
should be directed. In your company, my dear sir, and in that of
your favored friends, I could wish my dear boy might sometimes
be admitted. I want his mind to be enlarged by a liberal way of
thinking ; and his heart dilated by an extensive charity, free from
bigotry or prejudice. Times like those we have lived in, will often
warp and contract even well-disposed minds. We should guard
the rising generation against this pernicious influence of passion.
We should rather hold up to them, examples of those who have
nobly sacrificed prejudice and enmity at the shrine of benevolence,
charity, and humanity. The mutual kindness of Milton and Dave-
nant, though opponents in the civil commotions, Addison's friend
ship to Swift, Caesar's conduct towards Marcellus, on which
Cicero passes so beautiful an encomium ; and Augustus's fondness
of Horace, though he had been his avowed enemy and served un
der Brutus, afford such pictures as we can behold with compla
cency. But, I am again exceeding the proper bounds of a letter ; let
me only add, that I wish my boy to be introduced to Mrs. S. and
her female friends. I am almost afraid to inquire about a certain
old lady, for whom I ever held the highest veneration. My re
spectful compliments to Mrs. Sedgwick, and with my most sincere
prayers for the happiness of you both, believe me, my dear sir,
Your warm friend, P. V. S.
When you see Mr. 0. W., tell him how sensible I am of his
kind remembrance. FROM GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.
Philadelphia, 1st Oct., 1783.
Bear Sir :
I received the letter which you was so kind as to write by Mr.
Mullet I had very little opportunity to enjoy the pleasure of his

372 THE LIFE OF
company. His engagements and mine fully occupied our time,
and were of so different a nature as seldom to bring us together ;
however, I hope on his return from Boston, to be more fortunate.
You say that if gives you pleasure to remember your early
friendships : this I am not surprised at, for, in truth, we meet with
little else of friendship to remember. The after-connections of life,
generally have some other base. My own heart, worn by the suc
cession of objects which have invaded it, looks back with more
than female fondness towards the connections of earlier days. But
these things are past. Labantur, labantur anni.
I need not tell you that I lamented your departure from your
native country ; you know my sentiments on that subject. What
has happened since, was then present to my mind ; but for your
consolation, I will venture to say, (spite of contrary appearances,)
that the rage against loyalists will soon give place to more favor
able sentiments. Time shall be my judge. Adieu. Time is al
ready an inexorable judge, and bids me quit the pleasure of con
versing with you. Adieu. Believe me, sincerely,
Yours, Gouv. Morris.
TO GOUVERNEUR MORRIS.
London, 15th March, 1784.
Dear Sir:
I received your letter with very sincere pleasure, not only
because it assured me of the continuance of your friendship, but
because it breathes the same spirit of liberality and philanthropy,
for which I have always admired your character. I own to you,
my friend, that oblivion and conciliation are the great objects of
my incessant, most fervent wish. Whether in this I am influenced
by selfish, sinister, or partial considerations ; or whether I may
claim a more enlarged and more comprehensive principle, which
is directed towards the happiness of my native country, I will not
pretend to say ; but if I know my own heart, I think I can abstract
self entirely from this great question, at least I have endeavored to
do it I feel the less embarrassment to speak my sentiments on
what I conceive would conduce to the happiness of America,
because I consider myself as a citizen of the world ; and though
inclination would lead me, and near connections strongly draw me

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 373
to that country ; yet necessity does not compel me to make it my
residence. Exile, my dear sir, is a severe dispensation, and re
quires every effort of philosophy to sustain it, more especially when
the habits and manners of the country we are proscribed from,
independent of the natale solum, are congenial to our own cast of
mind and peculiar way of thinking. This, in comparing the state
of society in our country, as being less distant from that middle
line between uncivilized life and the refinements of luxury, with its
more advanced progress in the old world, is an aggravation I feel
very strongly. I am not, however, without my consolations, and
with an habitual disposition to make the best of my situation, what
ever it may be, and from a general principle pretty strongly tinctured
with optimism, I pass my time as agreeably as most people.
I trust your late predictions, like those of an earlier date, will
have their full accomplishment. I know there are vitia temporum
as well as vitia hominum. It is peculiarly incumbent on those whom
Providence has endued with a superior degree of understanding, to
counteract the pernicious effects of the one as well as of the other.
I see many of your old friends almost every day, and we often
talk of you. Once or twice I have been an hour in company with
your brother. Our old friend Jay was near three months in this
country, and he and I were often together. Instead of wasting our
time in unavailing recriminations, the present and future happiness
of our common country, and the means conducive to it, afforded
ample subjects for conversation. He talks of returning to private
life and of resuming his profession, but I fancy the public will
hardly dispense with his further services.
I thank you for your attention to my introduction of Mr. Mullet,
whom I hope you have seen before now. Will you excuse me for
mentioning a more humble character, the bearer, John Randall, a
wheelwright and carpenter, who is going to settle in Philadelphia.
He has been mentioned to me as a young man of good parentage
and fair character.
I am with great esteem, dear sir,
Your sincere friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
If you should happen to go to Kinderhook, let me beg it as a
particular favor, that you will see my dear boy.

374 THE LIFE of

TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Philadelphia, 18th June, 1784.
Dear Sir:
I have received your letter of the fifteenth of March last from
London, and very sincerely thank you for it. Depend on it, that
if I go near to Kinderhook, I will execute the commission which
your heart has given me. Mine can estimate the value, although
I am not (to use Milton's language) acquainted with the " relations
dear, and all the charities of father, son."
I perfectly coincide with you in opinion, that America is the
country in the world, whose social state admits of the greatest
portion of happiness. While on this subject, I will make here the
feeble record of a sentiment which occurred to me in conversation.
If we would know when any nation possesses the greatest mass of
felicity cceteris paribus, we must discover that period in which there
is the greatest proportion of young people compared with the old.
The young are looking forward to brighter prospects ; the old are
bounded by the grave. This applies strongly to a new country ;
for there, all are in a state of progression. Each individual pos
sesses, at the end of every year, an increased portion of what is
desirable to man ; and at every step his ideas expand, and open
the view of some greater good.
Such being my sentiment, (for the thought arose more from
feeling than reflection,) I have commiserated with a double pang,
the fate of those who have, been exiled from among us. My polite
ical ideas also are far from lessening the regret, because I see no
necessity for the measure. Were this a monarchy > I would sub
scribe to it fully ; because the reigning and the deposed families,
must each have hereditary friendships and antipathies among the
people. But in a republic it cannot be so. The metaphysical idea
of the state does not so inhere in any particular body as to give
room for an exercise of the dissocial emotions. We may love the
country though we hate the king ; but it is not in nature to hate the
country. Nor can we long dislike the government, when that
government is ourselves. With a very few exceptions, therefore,
of old and powerful enemies, I would open wide the doors of that
temple which we have reared to liberty ; and in consecrating an

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 375
asylum to the persecuted of mankind, I would not exclude those
who first drew the vital air, and first saw the light in America.
Here is a letter, very little fit to proceed from a man who has
long been engaged in public life, and who ought perhaps to reason
more, and to feel less. But when I write to you, it is in the con
fidence of early friendship, and with the belief, that you will not
expose my puerilities to a common gaze. Adieu. But before I
leave you, let me introduce Mr. John Rucker, who is to be the bearer
of this letter. He is a gentleman in the mercantile line ; member of
a house established in New- York. I have desired him to apply to
you, should he need advice during his stay in England. Believe
me always very truly, Yours, Gouv. Morris.
TO OLIVER WENDELL. London, 2d April, 1784.
Dear Sir :
I have heard with sincere pleasure of your obliging inquiries
after me, but it is only within a few days that I was informed that
you had done me the honor of writing me a letter. I have to
lament the miscarriage of it, or I should have availed myself of
more than one opportunity of acknpwledging so flattering an in
stance of your attention. I can never forget your behavior to me
while I was at Boston, by which you gave an example,- that pri
vate humanity and public duty were not irreconcilable. A benev
olent mind will find frequent occasions of exemplifying this truth,
even in seasons of more tranquillity than have fallen to the lot of
America for some years past ; but how will these occasions be mul
tiplied in the present arduous conjuncture, after men's passions
have been let loose, and in the pursuit of an end they deemed laud
able, the means perhaps habitually not much regarded ! A strong
head and a tender heart will, in this situation of things, point to
the same object; for I am convinced that humanity will not more
ardently wish, than sound reason dictate the expediency and ne
cessity of throwing a veil of oblivion over the past, and of cherish
ing a " spirit of conciliation" in future.
I know these sentiments come not with the best grace from
people of my description, and are subject to an invidious construe-

376 THE life of
tion from those who think that self-interest is the only motive of
men's actions. With such men, philanthropy is nothing but a
sound, and the duties of morality and religion mere matters' of con
venience. If I know myself, 1 am not one of those who wish to
mould doctrines to suit my own purposes, and I think if I was with
the victorious instead of the vanquished party, I should be equally
an advocate for the rights of private judgment, the principles of
toleration, and the general interests of society. Alas! what is there
in life worth pursuing, and what are the acquisitions of wealth, dis
tinction and power, if, to obtain them, we must sacrifice to the
demons of malice, revenge or intolerance ?
I have not finally determined upon my future destination, which
will depend in a great measure upon the information I receive of
the temper and principles my countrymen are actuated by : my
native country is the magnet which attracts my heart, its fondest
views, and its most powerful affections. But if dishonor or humi
liation must be the price by which it is to be regained ; even that
I can resign. " The world is all before me where to choose a
place of rest," and I trust Providence will be my guide to find one.
Be assured, my dear sir, I neither do nor shall harbor any resent
ments, but shall carry with me the warmest wishes for the happi
ness of my native country, and as to the government which shall
be adapted to that important end, I can say with sincerity of heart,
esto perpetua !
You will, I hope, excuse the length of this letter, as you will
naturally conceive that subjects of this kind will find their way to
my reflections. Whatever my fate may be, believe me, I shall
always rejoice in the happiness of others, and more especially, of
those worthy characters, whom I have the honor of numbering
among my friends. I beg my most respectful compliments to Mrs.
Wendell, and am with truth, dear sir,
Your most obedient and obliged humble servant,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO JOHN JAY. London, 6th July, 1784.
Dear Sir :
I wrote you a very hasty letter within this fortnight, in which

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 377
I informed you that notwithstanding the assurances I had received
that the executors had overcome their scruples and had called in
the money for the purpose of paying it, yet that I had received a
letter from Dean Tucker, intimating that Doctor Drummond had
been alarmed of anew by Mr. Osborne's opinion, " that if the pow
ers of attorney should turn out to he forgeries, Mr. Coperat's con
sent to the payment of the legacies would not exempt the executors
from a repayment." The Dean is satisfied and behaves with liber
ality, but the Doctor seems to be armed with suspicions like the
porcupine with quills. I have written the Dean with earnestness,
and expect to have his answer soon ; but, lest it should not be a
'favorable one, you had better furnish me with new powers.
Long before this reaches New-York I hope you will have
safely arrived there, and have met your friends in health and hap
piness. I trust, likewise, that you will find public affairs wearing
a more benign aspect than they did last winter. The restoration
of my brothers is a very pleasing circumstance to me. That I was
not comprehended in it is owing, I believe, to a misconception of
the Governor with respect to my particular situation. He has
been obliging enough to declare that there was nothing to obstruct
my return, for that he had put me on the footing of a British pris
oner, and as such had exchanged me. I verily believe his view in the
manner in which he treated me was to exempt me from the penalties
of the act, but I conceive this was not within the power of the Exe
cutive, worded as the act is. He showed a very friendly disposition
towards me, and I believe would have given me a much more am
ple proof of it in the paper he signed, which he desired me to draw
myself, and which, from motives of delicacy, I assure you, I made
only a simple certificate of a fact, viz., " that he had given me per
mission to go to England when the situation of public matters would
admit of it." This, indeed, was antecedent to the " proceedings of
the Commissioners at Albany," and even to the passing of the law,
so that its operation against me seems to be peculiarly hard. If
you can consistently interfere in this matter, I should be glad you
would state it to the Governor, with my respectful compliments.
I intend to write to him upon the subject.
Since writing the above I have a letter from Dean Tucker, and
I flatter myself that the money will be paid without new powers ;
48

378 THE LIFE of
but I would not have you omit sending them, as new difficulties
may be started. I really believe the Dean is ashamed of his col
league's skepticism.
I have seen your friend Mr. Vaughan several times. Mr. and
Mrs. Bingham I saw at Bath last April. They are not in England
now. My respects to Mrs. Jay. „
Yours affectionately, Peter Van Schaack.
FROM JOHN JAY.
Philadelphia, 21st Nov., 1784.
Dear Sir :
In order to reduce to a certainty the substance of my conver
sations with the Gov. on your subject, and thereby prevent mis
understandings about the matter in case of his death, I wrote him
a letter, (the draft of which I accidentally left with my papers in
Jersey,) to which I received a few days ago the following an
swer : " New-York, 8th Nov., 1784.
"Dear Sir:
" It has gave me much pain, that I have not been able to an
swer your letter of the 8th ultimo sooner. I have not had a mo
ment's leisure to do it.
" Should the proceedings of the Commissioners (under the law
respecting people of suspicious and equivocal characters) against
Mr. Peter Van Schaack, subject him to the penalties of it, on his
returning to the State, it would be peculiarly hard. I will not;
venture to determine, however, that this would not be the case on,
a rigid construction of the law, as of this you are a much more
competent judge. There was another person, viz., Mr. Fletcher
Matthews, proceeded against under it, and placed in the same situ
ation with Mr. Van Schaack. He remains in the country without
any interruption, and from this it is to be presumed he is not con
sidered as being subject to the penalty of it. Both these gentle
men were adjudged by the Commissioners to be sent within the
British lines ;.. but were detained by my order for exchange. There
is this difference only in their cases. Mr. Matthews continued in

peter van schaack. 379
the country, while Mr. Van Schaack was permitted to go (on pa
role) to England, in order to afford him an opportunity of having
an operation performed on his eye, which was disordered. This
was an indulgence he had applied to me for previous to his being
summoned by the Commissioners, and which he was encouraged
to hope would have been granted, as it most certainly would, and
it is a circumstance which, added to his having behaved while on
parole as a man of honor and humanity, will induce me to interest
myself in his favor. " I have the honor to be, &c, &c,
" Geo. Clinton."
My opinion, upon the whole, is, that you consider yourself in
the same light that the Gov. considers you, and that you return to
this country as soon as you conveniently can. On your arrival
such further steps may be taken as circumstances may render ex
pedient.

Adieu, my dear sir.

Yours sincerely, John Jay.

TO PETER SILVESTER. London, 2d Feb'y, 1785.
My dear Sir :
I return you many thanks for your repeated favors, which I
have received down to the 15th December. The long and interest
ing one of the 11th Nov., and my sister's of the same date, I receiv
ed only last night, under cover from Harry, superscribed by Major
Grey. As the mail goes from hence this evening, I shall not have
time to give you my opinion on the questions you state, but shall
reserve it for the next opportunity.
• ' Your kind attention to my little concerns, merits my thanks. I
am satisfied with the issue of Phillip's cause as it affects me, but
not as it affects him, poor man. As to Mrs. Goes, I do not re
collect my having made such a promise, but she is too good a wo
man to assert an untruth. Relinquish the interest ; and give up
the principal too, if you think her an object. I have several times
intended to have given a hint to you, to distribute some money for
me in charity to proper objects— let this be a charge of secret ser-

380 the life of
vice money, and I shall never call you to account. Providence
has been kind to me, and let me not be ungrateful. God knows I
wish not to accumulate — a decent competency is all I aim at. I
am extremely saving, and anxious that nothing should be lost.
But my general frugality I would make the source of my private
charity. To determine a proper conduct from these principles, I
wish to know the extent of my finances, and to keep clear accounts.
To my debtors I would be very lenient, provided they are punctual.
That will be useful to them, as it is essential to me. To such of
them as may have met with untoward circumstances and have
large families, you may give up one half of the interest upon their
paying the other half. Do in all this, my friend, what would
gratify your ovm feelings were you in my situation. I would never
receive a shilling, that should be bathed with the tears, or draw
forth a sigh from a worthy unfortunate man. I spend very little
money here considering the many enjoyments I have ; but these
are of the social kind. My savings from expensive amusements,
will enable me to distribute my mite to the distressed. Believe
me this is not a momentary impulse, but my settled principle. You
know my circumstances in America; from hence I shall indeed
carry very little, but I shall go free from debt. If God in his in
finite mercy vouchsafe me once more to embrace my friends — but
this is too tender a subject — my heart and my eyes too are too full
to pursue it.
My purpose is to go in the packet of May ; upon my arrival
in the harbor, I shall write to the Governor ; and if the answer I
receive is not satisfactory, I shall go up the Sound and through
Connecticut into Berkshire county. Mr. Jay, who has written to
me from Philadelphia, has performed the offices of friendship.
The Governor, too, acts a manly, consistent part in a letter front
him to Mr. Jay, but I wish he had repeated in that letter, what he
told me in August, 1778 ; " that he did not think me a proper
object of the act, by color of which I was proceeded against, for
that my conduct had been different from that which was the object
of the act ; that my character was not equivocal or suspicious, but
well understood ; for, that though averse to the public measures,
and as such I had been put under parole, yet having never viola
ted that parole, he would consider me as a British prisoner." Of

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 381
all the mortifying things I have met with, the preamble of that act
has been the greatest; for it describes characters so odious, so con
temptible, that if I thought it was in any degree applicable to me,
I should despise myself! I remember Mr. Jeremiah Van Rensselaer
said some civil things to me also, and I believe none of the Com
missioners thought me within the spirit of the act.
As to what you say of Major Goes' inquiries, let me beg you
will present my compliments to him. I bear enmity to no man
existing; and however it may sound in the ears of some of my
friends, yet to you, who know me to be incapable of a time-
serving conduct, I will say that all he has done against me, is far
overbalanced by what he might have done, but did not; and that
I am ready to shake him by the hand with cordiality, and perfect
oblivion of the past. No part of my conduct shall have retrospect
to the transactions of the war. What is there in this life of conse
quence enough to call forth the malignant passions of envy, hatred,
revenge and malice ? " Devil with devil damn'd, firm concord
holds, men only disagree of creatures rational and under hope of
heavenly bliss," &c.
My dearest Lydia ! how sincerely do I congratulate you all
upon her marriage. She must not think hard of my not having
written to her upon the important occasion. My absence from
London, and my numerous engagements in it, leave me very little
time, especially considering the state of my poor eyes. I hear a
most favorable character of Mr. Wyncoop, and he may rely on my
friendship as long as he behaves with tenderness to my dear niece,
and that I trust will be as long as she lives. Tell Lydia she must
read some of the papers in the Spectator upon the duties and con
duct of a wife. When I see her, I will illustrate them by some
instances within my own experience. I have seen a wonderful
variety of characters, as you may suppose, in this length of time.
My heart has sometimes been a little touched, but not much
wounded. In America I would wish to form a connection, if ever
I should again become a family man.
I will send you some of the best books of practice, which is
very intricate in the courts of Westminster Hall ; and after all,, is
to be acquired only by experience. 'Tis difficult to comprehend it
from reading. Were I a judge in America, I would pay very little

382 THE LIFE OF
regard to authorities in this way, for the refinements of an old
country like this, cannot be proper for a young one like ours.
Lord Mansfield, whose abilities, notwithstanding his advanced
age, still continue to astonish the world, has cut up by the roots
many of the apices litigandi — the quibbles of the law. But new
evasions and subterfuges will be invented, as new rules are intro
duced. The attorneys swarm in this country, and indeed feed upon
the vitals of it. Chicanery and v  y are the only means by which
many support themselves. It has been computed that thirty thou
sand persons are maintained by the law in London, and within the
bills of mortality. The Inns of Court are like little towns.
You can have no conception of this great town, without supposing
every tree between Kinderhook and the landing* a house ; and
every leaf a human being. This you will say is a hyperbole indeed ;
still, without being able to conceive the possibility of the one, you
can hardly conceive the actual state of the other. I will try to
find out Doctor Silvester, at Doctor's Commons : there, too, the
black-gown gentry swarm like crows.
Continue, my dear sir, and my dear Jenny, to support and soothe
our aged mother. That is another heart-breaking subject. Heaven
preserve you all ! P. V. S.
TO PETER SILVESTER. London, 22d Feb., 1785.
My dear Sir:
By Mr. Mullet, who sailed in this month's packet, I wrote you
a letter in which I acknowledged the receipt of your agreeable fa
vors of November and December. I also wrote to you or David
by every conveyance since my return from Yorkshire in November
last. Permit me to recommend the contents of those letters to
your attention, and to request a compliance with the several requests
I made in them, respecting my little concerns.
After revolving the subject of my ill-fated eyes a thousand
times, I have concluded to undergo the operation before I leave
England, and from the inquiries I have made, I have reason to
hope for relief ; but unfortunately Baron Winzellisat Paris and
* A distance of five miles.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 383
does not come to England till May. I must therefore go to him
or postpone my embarkation. Believe me, this is a distressino-
alternative — but how can I help it ? Will anybody be so cruel,
as to charge me with mutability or unsteadiness ? I am much
inclined to go to Paris, but to be entirely among strangers in such
a critical situation, not to mention the additional expense of travel
ling, &c, is a serious subject. The operation alone will cost me
sixty guineas at least, perhaps a hundred or a hundred and ten. I
will not dwell upon this subject ; surely my friends can anticipate
all I could say upon it, by placing themselves for a moment in my
situation. As to your question about the regularity of the practice, of a
plaintiff's filing common bail for defendant after he had signed a
bail-bond, but neglected giving special bail, I am very clear that
the judgment ought to be set aside. The reasons you assign in
favor of it, may weigh for the introduction of a general rule ; but
till such a general rule is established, the plaintiff has, by the
acetiam, precluded himself from taking such a step ; nor can he, I
think, in the progress of the suit, deviate from the course in which
he commenced it. The filing common bail for defendant depends
upon an act of Parliament, and can be practised only in the
instances mentioned in the statute. It appears to me like a trick
and a surprise upon defendant, who could not suppose that the
plaintiff would begin his suit in one way, and pursue it in another.
You will find it extremely difficult to apply the rules of prac
tice in the courts of Westminster Hall to the courts in America ;
and even to understand the authorities in the books, general prin
ciples only should be regarded. To prevent chicanery and trick,
and to enable the parties to come fairly to trial of the merits,
seems to be Lord Mansfield's fundamental principle in expounding
the rules of practice. The resemblance of your Supreme Court to
the courts of Westminster Hall, and of your inferior courts to the
inferior courts in England, is very slight indeed, and if you attempt
to draw a parallel, you will introduce endless confusion into your
practice. Look at the very commencement of an action here, and
with you ; and see in what they resemble each other. Here, it is
in many cases of very material consequence whether the suit is
commenced by bill, or original : e. g., in case of outlawry, you

384 THE LIFE OF
cannot proceed unless the suit is by writ, that is, original : you
know of no such distinction ; and, indeed, if here they retain the
shadow after the substance is gone, why should you do so ?
I had heard of the case of Rutgers and Waddington. I thought
the charge a little extraordinary, though I do not presume to con
demn it. It is a little remarkable that something like the Major's
charge was advanced by Lord Mansfield in a case tried here in B.
R. wherein Carmer sued the chief engineer for the rent of his house
at New-York, occupied in the public survice. His lordship, I am
told, held that New-York was a conquered town, and the com
mander-in-chief has a right to the use of every house in the city,
if required for the purposes of the troops ; if any allowance was
made to the owner it was an act of favor, not ex debito justitice.
On the other hand Lord North and Mr. Eden, in the House of Com
mons, held a doctrine on another occasion not unlike that of the
Assembly, viz., " That a positive law of this country, is not done
away by any treaty with another country, till it is repealed."
I have somehow or another mislaid your several queries, &c.
But if I understand the case on the will, the devise was clearly an
estate tail, but that species of estates being abolished among you,
it will now be a fee. " Devise to T. G. for his natural life, and
after his decease to his heirs and assigns forever, and for want of
such heirs to T. E. his heirs and assigns forever, T. G. has only'
an estate tail." Per Lord Mansfield. If I remember your case
right, this is in point. The abolition of estates tail among you, is,
I think, a wise measure, consistent with the spirit of a Republic.
I am so fatigued with writing on business, that you must apolo
gize for me to my correspondents, young and old — to my dear- Ly
dia especially. My heart is with you all ! But my poor eyes must
be spared, and deserve more favor than they receive, in spite of all
the suggestions of prudence. A few months will decide my fate,
and determine my future views in life ! A few months, but long and
tedious will they be, in such a state of suspense. Heaven bless you
all. To my mother, say every thing that is tender and dutiful.
Yours affectionately,
P. V. S.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 385

CHAPTER XVIII.
Mr. Van Schaack's return to America had now been postponed
for several years, partly through fear of proceedings against him
under the banishing act, and from apprehensions excited by the
severities of his countrymen as indicated by the legislation of his
native State, and partly in consequence of the condition of his
eyes. He retained the use of the left eye, which had been tempo
rarily affected in September, 1780, but the sight of the other was
entirely gone. The apprehension that an experiment upon the
diseased eye, if unsuccessful, might occasion the loss of the other
through sympathy, rendered the policy of an operation a matter
for serious consideration, and left him in a state of suspense and
painful anxiety for many years. Having been advised that the
operation could be performed at New- York, he finally determined
to leave England without undergoing it, and he made his arrange
ments accordingly. His heart now beat high in the prospect of
soon meeting his numerous connections and friends in America,
after so long a separation, and under circumstances of such painful
interest. TO HIS SON.
London, May, 1785.
At length, my dear Harry, the happy day is approaching,
which will put an end to our separation. In a little time after you
receive this, I trust I shall embrace you in our native country. I
shall sail the 4th or 5th of June, from Falmouth, where I shall be
two hundred and seventy miles on my way from London to New-
York. Your feelings, upon this occasion, I flatter myself correspond
with mine; indeed, I can hardly suppress my emotions at the bare
idea of this happy event, after an absence of near seven years. I
think, my dear boy, that the remembrance of your features is so
strongly imprinted on my mind, that I shall easily recognise you ;
but Buck and Betsey will be strangers indeed. You shall introduce
us to each other. 49

386 THE LIFE OF
It is my intention, my dear son, that you and I shall be much
together. It depends on you, to make me one of the happiest of
men. I shall treat you with the utmost confidence, and hope you
will behave to me with unreserved freedom. Don't think I expect
too much of you as to your learning. I am disposed to make every
allowance in this case, and I almost wish you may be rather back
ward in your improvements, that I may have the pleasure of assist
ing you to repair the defects. If you are very learned, what will
be left for me to do ? I have another reason why I wish you may
not be too deep in your studies, — because I flatter myself you have
devoted much of your attention to the cultivation of the amiable
qualities of the heart. To find you a virtuous youth, and pleasing
in your manners, open, candid and unreserved, is the utmost of my
wish — to make you' a sensible and even learned man, you have yet
time, amply enough. If, in the course of a long exile, I have
collected any materials that may be made beneficial to you, what
pleasing reflections will it afford me ! Qui mores hominum mvl-
torum vidit et urbes, I may in some measure apply to myself,
though my travels have by no means been so extensive as I could
have wished, for various reasons. I have, however, not been alto
gether idle, and you shall have the fruits of my industry. Sic vos non
vobis mellificatis, apes : however this is not true in one sense as appljed
to me, for in serving you I shall most essentially gratify myself.
As I have told you in a former letter, I have already introduced
you to all my most esteemed friends ; and if you should come to
this country, you will at once have a number of acquaintances who
will, I am confident, be glad to see you, from their kind partiality
to your father. Your prospects in life, my dear Harry, are such as
should make you thankful to Providence, and the best method of
manifesting such a disposition, and at the same time to realize
those prospects, is to cultivate not only the faculties of your mind,
but the pleasing and endearing qualities of your heart.
I send over two saddles, bridles, &c, for you and me. They
are plain, which will be no objection to you, as I am pleased to
hear that you have nothing of the fop or macaroni in your
appearance. I hope you will not expect presents, and that you
will be sufficiently happy in meeting me without any such sort of
recommendation. You shall have all you can wish, and New-York

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 387
will afford the means of supplying you. Perhaps the little ones
will expect some memorials of my love, and you must assist me
when I get to New-York to gratify them. My behavior to a
young gentleman like you, and to children like them, must be very
different, while my affection for all is the same. I expect much
assistance from you with respect to these dear, dear little objects of
our common love, and let me add, my dear Harry, of our common
charge, for which your more advanced years will qualify you. I
have a thousand things to say to you, upon these very important
subjects, but your imagination will supply what I have not time
to particularize, until the joyful day of our meeting. May the
Almighty continue his gracious protection of you all, is the fervent
and constant prayer of
Your truly affectionate father, and most sincere friend, * /
Peter Van Schaack.
I have, I believe, heretofore hinted to you my wish that you
should study the law. I hope this will coincide with your own
inclination. You will have advantages which do not fall to the
lot of every young gentleman, and I mean you should pursue this
study upon liberal principles, and not like a pettifogging attorney.
It is a noble science, when studied as such. Be assured you will
like it. If you give me this proof of your acquiescence in my
opinion, you will make our meeting doubly happy.
Though I have lamented our long separation as one of the most
painful circumstances, as they affect my private feelings, yet, with
a view to your impovement, perhaps all is for the best. I am a
little of an optimist; how are you in that respect? One thing be
assured of, that I shall convince you of the propriety of every year's
absence, prolonged as I have prolonged it time after time, and that
I could not have returned <Jhe year sooner without deviating from
that line of conduct, and that consistency of character, which I owe
. Jiot only to myself, but to you. I say to you, for am I not bound
to act from principles, and to afford you an example, which may
be worthy of your adoption and of your imitation ? I shall con
vince you that I am not one of those austere fathers, who think
that the parental and filial duties are all on one side. The tender
friend, and not the arbitrary dictator, shall characterize my con
duct. Pleasing theme ! But I must q-ait it. Heaven preserve you,
my beloved boy ! .  .

388 THE LIFE OF

TO JANE SILVESTER. London, 1th May, 1785.
My dearest Sister :
I snatch a few minutes, to indulge the tender affection of- rey
heart in writing to you, probably the last letter you will ever re
ceive from me dated in England. I shall embark in about four
weeks from this day, and in a little time after this comes to your
hands, I trust we shall have a happy meeting at Kinderhook. My
mother ! — there is my apprehension ; but I indulge hopes of once
more seeing her. My heart melts at the idea.
Let me not lose this opportunity of thanking you, my dear and
beloved sister, for all your goodness to my children. Harry's let
ters convince me that he will never forget it, and his grateful heart
endears him to me. I hope he will consider his cousins as his own
brothers and sisters. You must mention me in the most affection
ate manner to all my family connections, and assure them I shall
carry over a heart full of love for them — a heart unaltered by
length of time or distance. They will not, I hope, expect any
thing more. I reproach myself for not writing to my dear Lydia.
Her change of situation made me design more than a common let
ter to her. But I trust she does not want any advice. Her hap
piness depends on herself; and so good a heart as hers is, will in
duce her to improve her present condition to its best advantage, by
cultivating the duties it imposes on her, and the discharge of which
rewards themselves.
To Mr. Silvester I shall not write by this conveyance. Adieu,
dearest sister ! Yours ever affectionately, P. V. S.
The reader cannot fail to have remarked the beautiful vein of
sensibility and affection, which runs throughout all Mr. Van
Schaack's letters to his connections in America, and particularly
the tenderness and solicitude manifested in regard to his aged
mother. This was reciprocal ; and it was from her he had inher
ited that refined sensibility which marked his character. In a
letter to him from his little son, the latter remarks : " My grand
mamma sheds many a tear for you, and so do I ;" and another of
his young correspondents writes : " I am sensible you are touched

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 389
to the heart when the least mention is made of your mother. Every
letter that you have written proves the truth of this assertion, and
whenever you are spoken of she sheds a tear." His prolonged ab
sence was her constant theme ; and it was her ardent prayer that
she might be permitted to see her favorite son once more on this
side of the grave ; but Providence ordered otherwise.
On the second day of June, 1785, he set out from London for
Falmouth, at which place he embarked on the 10th, in the Prince
William Henry packet, and landed at New-York on the twentieth
July. The first tidings he received, on his arrival in his native
country, was of an unpleasant character, and put his fortitude to a
severe trial ; — the death of his mother, who had departed this life
about the time he left England.
TO JANE SILVESTER.*
My dear Sister :
Before now you have doubtless heard of my arrival in my na
tive country. What a shock I received, and how much my joy
was abated by the first news I heard, your affectionate heart will
easily conceive. I had prepared myself as well as I could, and
thought I should have borne the painful tidings with some degree
of. composure. But I was mistaken, and I was completely miser
able. How fervently did I pray, on the passage, for one tender
embrace before our final separation ; but it has pleased God to
order it otherwise, and we must submit. My mind is so engaged
by a thousand different objects, that I really know not what I am
about. I want a few days leisure to collect my thoughts, and my
spirits, and then I hope I shall find myself happier and more com
posed. I almost dread to see you all. May God grant me firm
ness to bear all the shocks I must encounter, and a thankful heart
for the blessings he vouchsafes me, in restoring me to the friends
who remain !
As my friends have recommended my staying in this place a
few days longer, as a matter of prudence, which will contribute to
my peaceable establishment in future, I have yielded to it; and
the rather, because, my dear sister, you will easily suppose my im-
* This letter is without date, but was written from New- York, upon his
arrival in that city.

f
390 THE LIFE OF
patience to get to Kinderhook has received nosmall check from
the distressing tidings I met with on. my first arrival. I assure you
I am hardly in a frame of. mind yet to go through the agitation I
expect to feel in meeting with my dear, dear friends. It is my
present purpose to set out next Friday, or. Saturday. Should I
alter it, you will hear from me again ; otherwise not. My dear boy
is now with me. He answers my warmest expectations. If he is
as good as he gives me every reason to believe him, how thankful
ought I to be, and instead of repining at my not being still more
happy, my heart should overflow with gratitude for what I do
enjoy. Mr. Jay has behaved like a true friend. He came on board the
ship immediately, brought me on shore, took me to the Governor's,
Chief Justice's, &c, and seems determined to do every thing for me
that he can. All descriptions of .pebple show me every attention
and" kindness. I should be the happiest of men, if I could forget
one thing.
My tenderest love to all friends.
My dearest sister, yours, P. V. S.
On the thirtieth of July, Mr. Van Schaack took passage in a
sloop for Kinderhook, where he arrived on the third day of Au
gust, and embraced his friends ! A lapse of twelve days more
would have completed seven years since he had taken leave of
those friends, and of the place of his nativity, for a foreign land,
under the trying circumstances which have been detailed. His
own feelings on this joyful occasion, will readily be anticipated by
the reader, who, in the course of these pages, has been made ac
quainted with a heart susceptible of the liveliest emotions of sensi
bility and affection, — submissive in adversity,, and ever grateful for
mercies received.
His return to his native country was hailed by men of all par
ties ; and all arms were now opened to receive him with a hearty
welcome. Under ordinary circumstances, his moral worth, his
high professional standing, and his literary and classical attain
ments, would have secured for him every respectful attention. But
the circumstances under which he had been compelled to leave his
native country,, were well calculated to excite the sympathy of all

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 391
who had heard of his case ; and they imparted a peculiar in
terest to his return from a long exile. He had just returned,
also, from England, — a name which had not entirely lost its pristine
charm,— the once " mother country," and the once tenderly regard
ed " home," — the attachments to which had not been entirely era
dicated, by the unnatural war : — a country whose people spoke
the same language, whose ancestral blood coursed the same veins,
and whose early glories and achievements were their common pro
perty. And although all political connection between the " mo
ther" and her offspring was now dissolved, yet the former, in her
common law, in the decisions of her courts, and in many of her
other institutions of civil polity, was yet to furnish models and pre
cedents to the rising Republic ; while their commercial intercourse,
as interest and sagacity already indicated, was destined to become
reciprocally beneficial.
Mr. Van Schaack's society was sought after with avidity. He
had spent six years in England, during a most momentous crisis in
'her history, and one replete with interest to every American. To
the man of general information, his company was more than accep
table ; for he had brought with him a rich store of valuable infor
mation, derived from personal observation of her institutions, laws,
antiquities, customs, curiosities and manners, made with enlarged
views, and an unprejudiced mind. To the politician and the
statesman, he was an object of peculiar interest. He had been a
spectator of various moving scenes, which convulsed to dissolution
the British Cabinet, and of others, whijch threatened her capital
with riotous destruction. He had attended the debates in Parlia
ment on American affairs, when the walls of St. Stephen's resounded
the thundering bursts of eloquence from the lips of the indefati
gable Charles James Fox, and the labored and philosophical argu
mentations of the gigantic Burke. The student of eloquence could
imbibe fresh lessons of excellence, and receive a new stimulus to
his own ambition, from the conversations of one who had been
present at the early efforts of Erskine in the forum, of Sheridan
and Pitt* in the senate, and to whose ears the " honied accents"
of the eloquent Murray (now Lord Mansfield) were familiar.
* Mr. V. S. had the rare good fortune to hear speeches from "both Fox and
Pitt on the same day.

392 ' THELIFEOF
His dignified and imposing personal appearance and manly
beauty, accompanied by his unaffected politeness and elegance of
manners, and recommended by a mind enriched by study and
foreign travel, and by a taste at once refined and cultivated, secured
for him the admiration of the fairer portion of society, and rendered
him at all times a welcome visitor in the social circle.
The scholar sought the society of one who, himself a model of
classical scholarship, had visited England's famed public schools
and universities of learning ; who had commingled his own learn
ing and wisdom with those of the renowned gownsmen of Oxford
and Cambridge, and who, in the society and intellectual converse
of England's scholars and philosophers, had imbibed fresh draughts
from the " Pierian spring," whose depths he had before sounded.
But, above all, no one's presence and conversation could be more
acceptable to American lawyers than that of an individual distin
guished in their own ranks, who had personally attended the courts
of Westminster Hall ; — who had there witnessed the displays of
the bright " luminaries of the law and of eloquence," and had
heard that law expounded from the lips of the great Lord Mansfield.
These circumstances combined to render Mr. Van Schaack an
object of great interest through life*
* The mere fact that Mr. Van Schaack had seen so many characters dis
tinguished in literature, in the arts and sciences, in politics, in the church
and in the law, — with some of whom he had an acquaintance, and respect
ing many of whom he could relate interesting anecdotes, — was sufficient to
excite attention. He had seen Mrs. Siddons upon the stage, and had en
joyed the society of Hannah More. He had heard all the distinguished
speakers in the courts and in Parliament. Lindley Murray was his partic
ular friend, and he had been in the company of Sir Joshua Reynolds, and of
the "literary colossus," Samuel Johnson. He was in London during Lord
George Gordon's riots, and through the changes of the ministry. He had
witnessed the downfall of one set of cabinet ministers, from their hostility to
America — the abrupt secession of another — the dissolution of a third — the
grand coalition which formed the fourth, and which was itself soon after dis
missed by royal interposition, making shipwreck of the political reputations
of some of the greatest statesmen in the empire ; and he had participated in
the interesting discussions to which these political revolutions gave rise.
With the venerable edifices, the numerous attractions and local curiosities
with which London and its vicinage abound, he was also familiar.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 393

CHAPTER XIX.
It is not known that any impediments were interposed, on Mr.
Van Schaack's return to his native country, to his resuming his resi
dence in the State of New-York. The author is also uninformed
as to the nature of those proceedings which took place between
Governor Clinton, Chief Justice Morris, Mr. Jay and the subject of
this sketch, during the ten days the latter remained in the city of
New-York, after his arrival in this country, and which proceedings
are referred to by him in his letter to his sister, as calculated to
"contribute to his peaceable establishment in future." A con
viction for misprision of treason under the banishing act, depended
on a return to the State; but as the Treaty of Peace contained a
stipulation against future prosecutions, a further proceeding under
the act by which Mr. Van Schaack was proscribed, would seem to
be repugnant to that instrument.* And yet it appears by the Jour
nals of the Legislature, in the case of an individual who had been
sent within the British lines for refusing to comply with the requi
sitions of the act of 30th June, 1778, and who, in March, 1786,
applied to the Legislature for permission to return to the State,
that he was only allowed to return for a short time, to enable him
to arrange some private affairs^ And in the case of Mr. Van
Schaack, as appears by Governor Clinton's letter to Mr. Jay, and
the other proceedings referred to, the constituted authorities were
in doubt as to the law. It will hereafter appear, that a statute
was eventually passed, in which his name was specially introduced,
restoring him to the rights of citizenship.
But, whatever may have been the proper construction of the
* See Appendix L, for 6th Article of Treaty of 17S3. On the 22d of Feb
ruary, 17S8, the legislature of New- York passed an act, in pursuance of a
general recommendation of Congress to all the States, repealing all laws in
consistent with the treaty of peace.
50

..394 * . the life of
statute in question, in its. connection with the treaty of peace, as it
respected his case,"it is not believed that the disposition existed, in
any quarter, to molest him. In view of some of the severe laws
whicfrhad been passed by the New-York Legislature, the appre
hensions which he had expressed, in his letters from England, were
natural. It would, no doubt, also have been very gratifying to his
feelings, to have been recalled from his exile, in a suitable manner,
by the public authorities. The intimation to this effect in his letter
to his brother of 10th of July, 1784, was not dictated by vanity,
but was suggested by such a view of the subject, and of the pecu
liar nature of his case, as would, it is believed, naturally strike
every ingenuous mind. There were, however, at the time of his
return from England, certain laws in force, which bore hard upon
him and others in a similar situation ; and here an opportunity of
fers, for adverting to the early legislation of the State of New-
York, which has frequently been the subject of animadversion for
its extreme severity.
We have seen Mr. Van Schaack's observations on the banish
ing act, which was the last act passed at the first session of the
legislature after the adoption of a constitution. According to his
views, if there was a necessity for a law of that description, one
might have been framed prescribing an oath which would have
been a sufficient security to the public, without subjecting that
class of persons against whom the act was directed, and who were
known to act upon principle, to the hard alternative of perjury, or
banishment. He would no doubt have been willing to have taken
an oath to do no act having a tendency to obstruct the public
measures of his countrymen ; and such an oath, taken by a man of
principle, would evidently have afforded greater security to the
public, than the indiscriminate administration of a general oath of
allegiance. The confiscation act, which was passed 22d October 1779, was
condemned by some of the most eminent whigs. In a letter from
John Jay, then American Minister at Madrid, to George Clinton,
Governor of New-York, dated 6th May, 1780, that prominent
champion of tbe Revolution thus speaks of this measure : " An Eng
lish paper contains what they call, but I can hardly believe to be,
your confiscation act. If truly printed, New-York is disgraced by

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 395,
injustice too palpable to admit even of palliation. I feel for the
honor of my country, and therefore beg the favor of you to send
me a true copy of it ; that if the other be false, I may, by publish
ing yours, remove the prejudice against you occasioned by the
former." Upon this the biographer of Mr. Jay remarks : "The confiscation
act referred to in the foregoing, was unfortunately authentic.
Mr. Jay, in after life, often spoke of it with strong indignation.
He regarded the dispute with Britain as one in which men might
conscientiously take opposite sides ; and while he was ever ready
to adopt all proper measures for preventing the tories from injuring
the American cause, he abhorred the idea of punishing them for
their opinions. His wish was, that no estate should be confiscated
except such as belonged to those who had been either perfidious,
or cruel. By the act alluded to, many were attainted who had
been perfectly inoffensive ; and he believed motives of avarice had
led to their proscription. So much disgusted was he with the in
justice and inhumanity of this law, that he always declined pm>
chasing any property that had been confiscated by it."*
It should in justice be mentioned, that Mr. Van Schaack's name
does not appear among the number of those whose estates were
confiscated, and who were attainted by name, and without notice,
or trial ; nor were any proceedings had against him under this law.
The names of several females are found in the list ; and farther pro
visions are made in the act, for indicting and trying deceased per
sons, with a view to a forfeiture of their estates, by retrospect to
their life-time, and reverting to a date upwards of three years pre
vious to the passage of the act : — a period when, in the judgment
even of many of the friends of the Revolution, the doors of recon
ciliation with the mother country were not fully closed.f The
time alluded to was the 9th of July, 1776 ; on the morning of
* Life and writings of John Jay, 1st Vol. 112.
t The Convention of New- York, as late as the 31st May, 1776, passed
a resolution looking to a reconciliation with Great Britain, although they
" considered it as remote and uncertain" — and the delegates from New- York
to the Continental Congress declined voting on the question of declaring in
dependence, for the reason that they were enjoined by. their instructions " to
do nothing which should impede a reconciliation" with the mother country.

396 THE LIFE OF
which day the Convention of New-York, as appears by its minutes,
assembled as a " Provincial Congress of the Province of New-York;"
and in the afternoon of the same day they became " a Convention
of the representatives of the State of New- York," and passed a
resolution approving of the declaration of independence by the
Continental Congress.
It is a historic fact, also, that up to within a few days of the
declaration, a respectable portion of the master spirits in the Con
tinental Congress condemned such a step as premature.* And if
such was the opinion of some of the ripe and fiery spirits of that
body, it is not to be questioned that a large number of the common
alty, viewing it in the same light, might very innocently, if not
ignorantly, for a time at least, have recognized the continued au
thority of Britain. But all will concede, that the declaration was
not the achievement of American Independence. It did but evince
the spirit of freedom, and indomitable as that spirit usually is, it
was not omnipotent even for its own purposes. It was but an as
sertion, and however noble and patriotic in itself, yet the great
work which was to vindicate its expediency, and to prove its truth,
remained to be accomplished.
Under one provision of the confiscation act, if an individual had on
the tenth day of July, 1776 — unsettled as was the question of actual
independence at that date, and limited as we have reason to believe
even the knowledge of the declaration — destitute as was New- York
* In Mr. Jefferson's Sketch of the Debates in Congress, on the 8th and 10th
of June, 1776, on the motion made by the Virginia delegates for declaring
independence, it is said : "It was argued by Wilson, Robert R. Livingston,
E. Rutledge, Dickinson and others — That though they were friends to the
measure themselves, and saw the impossibility that we should ever again be
united with Great Britain, yet they were against adopting it at this time :
That the conduct we had formerly observed was wise and proper now, of de-
ferring to take any capital step till the voice of the people drove us to it :
That they were our power, and without them our declarations could not be
carried into effect : That the people of the middle colonies (Maryland Del
aware, Pennsylvania, the Jerseys and New-York) were not yet ripe for bid
ding adieu to British connection, but that they were fast ripening, and in a
short time, would join in the general voice of America : That the resolution
entered into bythe House on the 15th of May, for suppressing the exercise.of
all powers derived from the crown, had shown, by the ferment into which it
had fhrown these middle colonies, that they had not yet accommodated their
minils to a separation from the mother country."

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 397
of a constitution, and without a legislature to enact laws, or courts
to adjudicate upon them — withdrawn to a place within the power
or possession of the British fleets or armies, and had on the next
day departed this life, he was liable, after such decease, and under
a statute enacted three years afterwards, to be made a party by
name to an indictment and prosecution in the courts, with a view
to a confiscation of his property, in the hands of his innocent widow
and children. The confiscation act, in one of its aspects, thus exhibits
the extraordinary spectacle of an ex post facto criminal law, carried
into execution against a dead person ! '*
A provision was introduced into "an act to complete the quota
of the troops of this State, to serve in the army of the United States
during the war," passed on the 9th of October, 1780, which at
this day appears not a little singular, (although not without rea
sons to support it,) and it may be referred to as an instance of curi
ous legislation.
By a section of this statute, the parents of any young man who
had gone off and joined the enemy were, for this reason, subjected'
to a tax of ninepence in the pound on the value of the whole
estate of the parent ; and the act provided " that where any person
shall have two sons gone off to, and joined the enemy, the sum
assessed upon such person shall be doubled ; and where three sons,
the said sum shall be trebled ; and in a like proportion for each addi
tional son."* This was reversing the order of the decalogue, and
has the appearance of visiting the sins of the " children" upon the
"fathers." The act made no exceptions in favor of parents whose
sons had gone off without their knowledge or leave, or even in
favor of the whig fathers of wayward sons ; and they were sub
jected to its penalties equally with the disaffected, who, the legisla
ture probably thought, should have brought up their sons better, and
with a keener relish for the principles of liberty. This was so
manifestly unjust and oppressive, that the law was modified at the
* The property of parents in moderate circumstances, and who, in fulfil
ling the divine command of " multiplying and replenishing the earth," had
been blessed by Providence with a goodly number of sons, might have been
exhausted by the operation ; for the parent was to be assessed " at least five
pounds for each son, without reference to the poverty of the parent, and not
excepting- the widow.

398 THE LIFE OF
next session, so as to exempt from its provisions the parent who
could prove that he or she had " constantly and uniformly, from
the commencement of the present war, taken an active and decisive
part in favor of the United States, and hath constantly demeaned
himself, or herself, as a good subject of this State ought to do."
On the 12th of May, 1784, an act was passed by the State
legislature, entitled " an act to preserve the freedom and independ
ence of this State, and for other purposes." This was a very severe
law. It disfranchised all those who had not been friendly to the
Revolution. By the first section of this act, it was provided, in general, that
every person, who at any time since the 9th day of July, 1776, had
accepted, received, held or exercised any military or civil office,
commission or appointment from the King of Great Britain, or who
since the date referred to had voluntarily gone over to, remained
with or joined the British fleets or armies, at any time during the
then late war, and who had left the State previous to the 10th of
December, 1783, and had not returned, should, on conviction thereof
upon being found in this State, " be adjudged guilty of misprision
of treason." The second section contained this clause :
" II. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That
" all and every person or persons falling under any of the descrip-
" tions herein before mentioned, and the descriptions mentioned in
" the twelfth section of the act entitled ' an act to regulate elec-
" tions within this State,' passed the 27th day of March, 1778,
" and who has, or have not left this State, are hereby forever dis-
" qualified and rendered incapable of holding, exercising or enjoy-
" ing any legislative, judicial, or executive office, or place what-
" soever, within this State ; and shall and hereby is and are forever
" disqualified and incapacitated to elect or vote, either by ballot or
" viva voce, at any election to fill any office or place whatsoever,
" within this State."
To give a full view of the broad extent of the disfranchise
ment inflicted by this act, it will be necessary to recur to the
twelfth section of the " act to regulate elections," and which was
in these words :
" XII. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid,
" That all and every person and persons, inhabitant and inhabi-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 399
"tants of this State, who since the ninth day of July, in the year
" of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy-six, before
" any Congress or Convention, or Committee or Council of Safety
" of this State, or other Committee or Commissioners of conspira-
" cies within this State, has or have avowed, or voluntarily recog-
" nised, or acknowledged any allegiance to the crown of Great
" Britain, or the sovereignty or supremacy of the King or Parlia-
" ment of Great Britain, or either of them over this State, and the
" inhabitants thereof or either of them ; or disavowed or denied the
" authority of the present government and legislature of this State,
" or of the former government and legislature thereof, by Con-
" gresses or Conventions, Committees or Councils of Safety, and
" other Committees ; or the independence of this State of any au-
" thority vested in or derived from the King or Parliament of Great
" Britain; or has or have voluntarily taken up arms with the Brit-
" ish troops, against this State or any or others of the United States
" of America ; or has or have voluntarily borne or held any com-
" mission, office or place of trust or profit under the king and par-
" liament of Great Britain, or under any authority derived from or
" under them or any or either of them ; or being out of the power
"of the British troops, has or have voluntarily gone within their
'' power for the purpose of supplying them with provisions or other
" necessaries, or employed other person or persons for the purpose ;
" or being so out of their power have voluntarily gone and con-
" tinued within the same without special license or permission by
" authority for the purpose; or has or have held any correspon-
" dence with them or either of them, in anywise prejudicial to the
"freedom and independence of the United States of America; or
" has or have directly or indirectly counselled, aided, encouraged
" or abetted, or shall hereafter directly or indirectly counsel, aid,
"encourage or .abet any person or persons whatsoever being an
" inhabitant or inhabitants of any of the United States of America,
"to acknowledge or avow any allegiance to the crown of Great
" Britain, or any sovereignty or supremacy of the king, and parlia-
" ment of Great Britain, or either of them, over this State, or any
" of the said United States ; or to disavow the authority of the
" Congress of the United States of America, or of the Provincial
" Congresses, or Convention or Legislature of this State ; or to

400 THE LIFE OF
" disaffect any person or persons to such independence or to the
" government and legislature of this State ; or shall hereafter be
" guilty of any or either of the said offences, shall be and hereby
" is and are ipso facto forever thereafter respectively declared to
" be utterly disabled, disqualified, and incapacitated, to vote either
" by ballot, or viva voce at any election to fill any office or place
" whatsoever, within this State, and to hold, exercise, or enjoy any
" office or place within this State. Provided always, That noth-
" ing in this clause contained, shall be construed to affect any per-
" son, who having gone over to, or joined the British troops, has
" returned to his allegiance to this State, according to the tenor,
" true intent or meaning of any proclamation, heretofore issued
" by any authority vested in, or derived from the legislature, or
" government of this state, or by his excellency General Washing-
" ton as Commander-in-chief of the forces of the United States of
" America." In one of his letters from England, Mr. Van Schaack expressed
a doubt in regard to again entering upon his profession, on his re
turn to America, " even if permitted so to do." In this qualifica
tion he no doubt alluded to certain laws then in force, and which,
until repealed, were an effectual impediment to his resumino- the
practice of the law in his native state.
On the ninth day of October, 1779, an act was passed by the
legislature of New- York, suspending from practice all attornies,
solicitors and counsellors at law, who had been licensed previous to
April, 1777, to practice in any of the courts of law or equity of the
former colony of New- York. This suspension could only be re
moved by the inquisition of a jury of inquiry, establishing upon
oath, that the applicant had been " a good and zealous friend of
the American cause." In March, 1785, an attempt was made to
procure a repeal of this law, so far as it respected certain promi
nent legal gentlemen of known integrity, but it proved unsuccess
ful ; and many men of talents were thereby excluded from the
profession to which they had been educated, and which constituted
their dependence for the support of their families.
A share of selfishness, probably, entered into the patriotism
which procured the enactment of this law ; and certainly into that

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 401
which prevented its repeal, at the close of the Revolution. If proper
at the time of its enactment, yet when the contest was decided, there
was no good reason why lawyers, more than any other class of
citizens, should be required to prove that they had been friendly to
previous public measures, to entitle them to the exercise of their
professions. Such a principle carried out, would have operated as
a perpetual exclusion from the new republic of all who had not
been zealous whigs ; and it was entirely at variance with the views
of Washington and Jay, who believed that men might conscien
tiously take different sides in the contest with Britain.
It was not to be expected that the prejudices, distrust, and an
gry passions, which had been excited by a civil war of seven years'
duration, would immediately and entirely subside on the successful
issue of the struggle. There had no doubt been much of cruelty
and barbarity in the conduct of a certain portion of the refugees,
and such as to render that class justly obnoxious to the continued
indignation and persecution of the " violent whigs." But the in
discriminate condemnation, and perpetual disfranchisement of all
those, who, from conscientious scruples, had not favored the public
measures, and who, upon the determination of the contest, fur
nished, in their integrity, a certain guaranty of their readiness to
become good citizens, under the new order of things, was scarcely
less censurable, than had been the conduct of the " faithless and
cruel," who alone, according to the well-drawn distinction of Mr.
Jay, deserved to be excluded from the new republic. Many of the
early acts of the legislature of New-York were very severe in their
operation upon individuals, and, as general laws, were unjust.
Much of the legislation of that period was injudicious, and incon
siderate, and it betrays evident haste. Special acts were passed
in a number of cases to relieve individuals who were injured by the
provisions of statutes, and whom the laws, when passed, were not
even intended to affect.
For those laws which were enacted in the progress of the Revo
lution, great allowance should be made. They have for their apo
logy " the infancy of the state," and the trials, distractions, and
embarrassments arising from a state of civil war. But the " Act
to preserve the freedom and independence of this State" was passed,
in May, 1784, several years after the suspension of hostilities, and
51

402 THE LIFE OF
four months after the formal ratification of the treaty of peace ; with
the spirit, if not with the letter of which instrument, its provisions
were evidently at variance.
The two last mentioned statutes remained in force when Mr.
Van Schaack returned from England. The failure of the attempt,
made in March, 1785, to procure a partial repeal of the law
against attornies, has been mentioned. At the same session efforts
were made to procure a mitigation, or repeal of other rigorous laws,
and with the like unfavorable result. A bill introduced into the
House of Assembly, to repeal the twelfth section of the " act to reg
ulate elections," and the second section of the " act to preserve
the freedom and independence of this State," after being ordered to
a second reading, was committed to a committee of the whole house,
where, upon debate, it was rejected.
A better and more liberal spirit, however, began to extend itself,
and a returning confidence gradually took the place of that pre
judice, and distrust, which is the natural and invariable concomi
tant, as well as the usual and immediate sequent, of a state of civil
war. The legislature which met in January, 1786, was actuated
by more enlarged views, and was distinguished for more increased
liberality. At this session, the act suspending the licenses of attor
nies, solicitors and counsellors who could not produce certificates
of their attachment to the American cause, was repealed ; and the
only requirements made to reinstate them in the practice of their
profession, were evidence of good moral character, and an oath
of abjuration and allegiance, and for the faithful execution of
their offices. A law was also passed in regard to undiscovered
confiscated lands, authorizing the discoverer to locate them, for the
benefit of the widows and children of attainted persons.
At the same session, a section was enacted, the effect of which
was to repeal the disfranchising law of 12th May, 1784, so far as
it affected thirty-three gentlemen, named.* It will be proper here
to introduce this section at large.
" XIII. And be it further enacted, by the authority aforesaid,
" That the several persons mentioned in the third clause of the act,
* The residue of the <: act in relation to the freedom and independence of
this State,'' together with a great number of other laws, was repealed on
the 12th of March, 1788.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 403
" entitled ' An act to preserve the freedom and independence of this
" State, and for other purposes therein mentioned,' passed the 12th
" day of May, 1784, and Peter Van Schaack, Richard Bartlett,
" Theophilus Nelson, and Zebulon Walbridge, shall be, and they
" are hereby respectively restored to all their rights, privileges and
" immunities, as citizens of this State, from and after such time as
" the said persons respectively shall in any court of record of this
" State take the oath of abjuration and allegiance prescribed by
" law, any thing in any former law contained to the contrary there-
*' of notwithstanding."
These impediments having been removed, Mr. Van Schaack
was reinstated in his rights as a citizen, and at a term of the Su
preme Court, held at the City Hall in the city of New- York, in
April, 1786, he was re-admitted to the bar.
It must have been a somewhat humiliating spectacle, to behold
one of the fathers of the New-York bar, and the reviser of the Co
lonial statutes, which, by the constitution, were still to continue to
be the law of the State, thus seeking admission a second time to
the bar of the Supreme Court. But we have seen, that Mr. Van
Schaack was perfectly willing to begin his career de novo, and
only asked of his countrymen to forgive his past errors. In this
spirit, we find him cheerfully writing from New-York, to his son
at Kinderhook : — " I was re-admitted to the bar on Tuesday last,
and am happy among my associates, who treat me with great po
liteness and attention :"  and to his young correspondent in En
gland,  "I have the pleasure to tell you, that I am reinstated
in my rights as a citizen of this State, and was admitted to the
bar a fortnight ago."
He shortly afterwards opened a law office in his native village.

404 THE LIFE OF

CHAPTER XX.
The first few years after his return from England, Mr. Van
Schaack led a life of exceeding great activity and industry ; and the
number and diversity of his employments were such as, coupled with
the hearty welcome and distinction with which he was received into
the variety of companies into which he was brought by the calls of
business and social enjoyment, (and which lost none of their effect
upon his susceptible heart,) probably rendered this one of the hap
piest portions of his life. From his correspondence during this
period, it appears that his time was taken up "from morning to
night in business and social enjoyments," and " every faculty of
his mind had full employment with building, farming, lawyering,
&c." Some selections from his correspondence of this date will
be found interesting, and will further illustrate his character. In
deed, he scarcely ever committed any thing to writing, which did
not possess some interest. It was remarkable, that his letters upon
the most ordinary occasions always contained some valuable sen
timents, some choice expression, or interesting classical allusion
worthy of preservation.* Of his pen it may not unmeaningly be
said : " Nihil tetigit quod non ornavit."
TO H  W  .f
Kinderhook, 30th Aug., 1785.
My dear Harry:
I would not have been six weeks on shore without writing to
you, but for the constant motion I have been in ever since my ar
rival. I have almost finished my routine of visits, and in a few
r
* One of the author's greatest difficulties, in preparing the present work,
has been to make a selection from a large mass of manuscripts, where all was
so good. f Still in England.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 405
days expect to be at New-York again. After adjusting some
matters of business there, I hope to be more at leisure, though I
fear this will not be till Nov. next. The number of people I have
seen, and more or less conversed with, since my arrival, would
astonish you. I wish I had time and arrangement of ideas equal
to my inclination, and I think I could afford you some amusement.
I found your cousin and namesake a very clever youth ; the other
two are generally allowed to be fine children, and be assured, I am
not disposed to dissent from the general opinion. They all three
answer my most sanguine expectations. You will therefore be
able to form a better idea than I can at present express, of my hap
piness. I long to hear of Eliza's arrival, and of the situation of
her and Nancy as to health. Your constitution, I flatter myself,
will continue to gain strength. Vires acquirit eundo : therefore
take a great deal of exercise, but not fatigue. Tell me something
about Jacob, and mention me to him affectionately. I find he has
written to his friends in very strong terms of regard about me. He
is a worthy young fellow.
You will remember me to Mr. and Mrs. Low, Mr. and Mrs.
Phyn, Col. Robinson and the ladies, in the most respectful manner.
Our friend Dr. Hayes, you must assure of my warm esteem ; he
shall have a long letter from me in the course of the winter. Pre
sent my best regards also to Mr. Watts, and Capt. and Mrs. Ken
nedy. I hope you see our friends in Basinghall-street sometimes.
I intended fully to have written to Mrs. Sime, but she must im
pute my silence to my present situation, which she can form some
idea of, when she considers the length of time of my absence from
my native country, the extensive family connections, and the large
circle of acquaintances I have had to attend to. My best wishes
to her and Mr. Sime, and all her connections at Islington, and in
town. Mrs. Tate and Mrs. Dyckman, you must also greet for me,
and assign the same reasons for my not writing to them. I have
seen D.'s sister, who is very anxious for his return to America ;
refer him to Mr. 'Dumont for my opinion of the situation of the
country, which, by the by, comes up fully to my expectations. I
shall expect, my dear Harry, that you make a point of seeing the
friends I have mentioned ; for it is not a mere ceremonious compli
ment I send them ; but a sincere, friendly remembrance.

406 THE LIFE'OF
Adieu ! my dear Harry. Expect to hear from me again in a
manner better suited to the concern I take in your welfare. God
bless you ! Yours affectionately, P. V. Schaack.
TO HIS SON* Kinderhook, 5th Bee, 1785.
My dear Harry:
Although your letters are generally written in such a hurry, (I
suppose owing to the pressure of your studies,) as to give me little
encouragement to enlarge much in mine, yet I have so much plea
sure in writing to you, that I cannot resist the impulse. Your last
letter, however, short as it is, is correct, grammatical and intelli
gent. The language is clear, perspicuous and energetic. It is
in my opinion, too, a specimen of the Laconic, which, if I remem
ber right, is agreeable to the Grecian eloquence. Your next, I
hope, will breathe a little of the spirit of Tully, whose splendid
<t copiousness is equally worthy of your imitation. You may think
I have been ironizing, but I assure you I have not. What you
have said, is proper ; what you have omitted, I will now remind
you of.
You say, " I have, according to your request, purchased, paid
for, and now send up the articles you desired me to buy, together
with the price of them.
" Paid for a pr. andirons, 1 . 16 . 0
" Twine, red tape, &c, 6 . 6
2. 2.6"
" The articles." Would not any one suppose these were all the
articles I desired you to buy 1 Is that the fact 1 If it is, I have
done. If it is not, why omit the rest 1 There is a figure in rheto
ric, whereby a part may be taken for the whole. But, my dear
Harry, were I to give you a waistcoat, and tell you you must con
sider that as a whole suit of clothes, I believe you would hardly be
* convinced by my rhetoric, or enabled to make a figure at the*
dancing school. Risum teneatis, amid ?
* Then at Columbia College.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 407
Let me beseech you to write with attention. Consider your
subject before you enter upon it. Devote one half hour to me once
a week. There is time enough for all you have to do, if you make
a judicious distribution of the fleeting hours. I thought your watch
would have assisted you in making this distribution. Whilst we
are uncertain whether we do not bestow too much time upon one
subject, we are prevented from paying proper attention to it, to
the exclusion of other matters which demand our thoughts. You
are free from that embarrassment at least. Don't think I expect
to place an old head upon young shoulders, or that I would impose
on you unreasonable difficulties, much less impossibilities. I am
told you have an aversion to writing; but, as writing is of all
things the most useful, and writing well, the most ornamental, — in
the words of Mr. Pope, " Nature's chief masterpiece is writing well,"
— this being the case, ought you not to struggle totis viribus against
this unreasonable aversion 1 Habit will make the task easy. There
is not a truer, more useful, or more admirable maxim than this :
Optimum genus vitce eligito, et consuetudo faciet jucundissimum.
This should be engraven on your mind.
I am afraid you will be tired of this long letter. I will only
add to it the name of Your warmest and best friend,
P. V. S.
Your brother is well, and as dear and good a boy as ever. I
have just been reading, in the Roman history, an account of the
Quintilian brothers; and I could not suppress a wish that you
might resemble them in merit, in fraternal affection, and in every
thing but their misfortunes. Their names were Maximus and Con-
dianus, in the time of the Emperor Commodus.
FROM HENRY CRUGER. Bristol, 1th Oct., 1785.
My dear Sir :
The news of your safe arrival on your native shore, gave great
joy to me and Mrs. Cruger, as well as to every individual of your
acquaintance. Your agreeable letter announcing the intelligence,"
I transmitted to the Colonel, at Beverley, who, I dare say, was as
happy to hear of your welfare as any man on earth.

408 THE LIFE OF
The reception you met on your arrival, though no more than I
expected, yet proved grateful in the realization. The sincerity of
Mr. Jay's friendship, you never questioned ; but this last mark of
it must make him your great Apollo. The generous behavior of
the Governor, Chief Justice, &c, proves a nobleness of mind, which
dignifies the officer, and endears the man. If my grateful ac
knowledgments, on the occasion, will be acceptable, I shall be
happy to have them rendered, in terms of the warmest respect.
The warmth of your gratitude, makes you declare, in the effu
sions of your joy, that you have not met " an old friend, with a new
face." The cruelty would exceed the wit to answer, " nulla fides
fronti." But, my dear Van, when our countrymen in general
know as much of you as the individuals of your more intimate ac
quaintance do, they will consider your return to them a valuable
accession. The variety of scenes you have been unfortunately
witness of, the useful knowledge you must have acquired, and the
infinite experience, which in a few years you have gained, must
prove an advantage to that country in which they centre. But,
most particularly so, when every friendly disposition to do one's
country good is, like yours, warmed and reanimated by the endear
ing thought of " natale solum."
Every thing remains here just as you left them. The news
papers will inform you of all matters public ; and as to my own
private affairs, they are much the same — rather mended than
otherwise, thanks to the creditor's pity, more than to the debtor's
punctuality. But, oh ! my dear friend, what commission or reward
can compensate for the duns, insults and sufferings, that we poor
American merchants do undergo ! The game is up. One half is
ruined already, and unless remittances come in the course of
the winter, the other half must be undone also: — a shocking
return for our confidence in the promises of our correspondents.
Government have been sounded on the distressing subject. They
do not think it of importance enough, to trouble themselves about
A man high in office told me with a great sang-froid — " We are
sorry for you as a friend, and for others engaged in the American
trade, but you will in future be more cautious whom you trust in
the United States :" — a sad reflection this on the private faith of
merchants. To be sure, the little regard paid to promises and en-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 409
gagements made -by some, warrants in some degree the universal
censures thrown on our trading countrymen.
I have endeavored to reason with my friends on the usefulness
of candor and punctuality, and have ventured to go so far as to
say that for a present pound, they were throwing away thousands —
nay, a pearl of inestimable value — their credit. All agree that the
war has depraved the morals of the people, — granted ; — but then
should not all agree that as peace is made, a reformation is become
indispensable 1 Fair dealing is all that is necessary. Let the text
be taken out of the 7th of St. Matthew, at the 12th verse.
Capt. Dehay, of the Peggy, is obliging' enough to take the
charge of a cheese for you, and a hamper of beer, in which you
must eat and drink our health ; for we pray for yours and your
happiness. Mrs. Cruger, your very warm and sincere friend, sends
her love and advice to you, and that is, to get married again, and
in your choice not too much to disregard parity of years ; for, al
though " you look seven years younger than you did seven years
ago," yet in seven years hence, you may feel more than fourteen
years older.
I remain yours in sickness and in health, Affectionately,
Hen. Cruger.
FROM THOMAS LEDIARD.
London, 24th Bee, 1785.
My dear Sir :
Your much esteemed favor under date of the 17th Sept. has
been but lately put into my hands ! I think I have too well read
good Mr. Van Schaack, to admit as necessary an apology from
him for his silence. If any instance of my conduct has induced
him to give me a seat in his friendship, I glory in that pleasing
circumstance, and on it will I feast till that morn on which the
gods shall perfect, the fruits of our pure regard, that promisingly
budded in our early acquaintance, but was nearly to be blighted
before it blossomed.
I, and so does my wife, and so must all those who had a free
intercourse with you, rejoice to find your native country yield you
perfect happiness, and that the surrounding gratifying objects are
52

410 THE LIFE OF
too numerous for the time you have to enjoy them in. Poor Mrs.
Lediard is deeply obligated by your kind inquiries and good wishes ;
she is neither so well nor so happy as she ought to be ; but, we
patiently bear all things as they arise, with that even steadiness
wherewith Providence hath blessed us ; — having confidence in
fond hope, — the nurse of young desire, — " that hence the gloomy
cloud will give place to the cheering rays of perfect truth, that
confounds shadow and manifests all things."
That friendship improves happiness and abates misery, " by
increasing our joy and scattering our grief," is an opinion generally
admitted, and your commercial system of this exalted principle, (if
I may be allowed the expression as you gave it to me in our sweet
evening's walk in yon great square,) will forever rest in the deepest
recess of my mind. If I cannot imitate, I can admire !
Mrs. Lediard joins me in the most affectionate regards for you,
and so would dear Tom, (who is well,) were he capable. When
I can serve you, I am confident you know me too well not to com
mand your most Sincere friend, T. Lediard.
FROM JOHN WATTS. London, 24th Bee, 1785.
Dear Sir :
You judged very right in supposing a letter from you would
not be unacceptable ; how could it, after the various interesting
conversations we have so frequently held, on the transactions of a
country we drew our first breath in, were so distant from, and so
often obliged to defend, from the love we bore to it 1 These are
yet fresh in my memory ; but, like most other things, wearing
away by degrees. Threescore and ten has a. wonderful effect both
on the body and on the mind; but why make this remark to you,
who have nothing to do with it 1 Let us come nearer home.
That your reception has been so cordial gives me much plea
sure, and, in your state of probation, must, I am persuaded, have
proved a solid satisfaction to yourself, as it opens a view to your
ultimate wishes. May you not be disappointed in the least of
them ; though it's rather too much to be expected, when we look
about us and philosophize a little, which teaches us to take the

peter van schaack. 411
world as we find it — the bad with the good. When merchants
complain 'tis for want of gains, assuredly. Affection and good
will are not the basis of commerce ; it depends quite upon another
principle, and to suppose that one nation deals with, or credits an
other, out of regard, is to suppose a courtezan grants her favors
out of love; both may pretend it, but who believes them, but
dupes 1
Our old friend has at last taken his departure from Beverley,
which he said should hold his bones ; he went off without pain or
struggle, his body wasted to a skeleton, his mind the same. The
family are most of them collected in town. There will scarcely be
a village in England, without some American dust in it, I believe,
by the time we are all at rest.
My regards to Mr. Jay. I hope his influence may continue,
that both his head and his heart may be employed in promoting
the public good ; in laying the foundations of a new system.
Such characters are peculiarly wanted. • Don't forget me to any of
my good friends you meet with : it of course must make me happy
to know they still preserve a favorable opinion of me. If to avoid
giving offence be a merit, I flatter myself I have some claim
so far. Farewell, my good sir; may your health and your spirits
never fail you, and whatever ills may be your lot, you will have no
right to complain. I am, as I used to be,
• Yours very truly, J. W.
FROM LEONARD GANSEVOORT, JUN.
Albany, 28th Bee, 1785.
Dear Sir :
I received your letter by the stage. The claim you have upon
me, I consider as a debt of honor, and as such mean to settle it
whenever I have it in my power.
I am exceedingly happy that the conduct of the citizens of Al
bany towards you was such as to meet your approbation. Merit,
sir, will ever claim attention, even in the most degenerate age ;
and the friendly reception they gave you, at once discovers the high
sense they entertain of your character as an honest man, and the
favorable opinion they have ever entertained of your conduct in a
political view.

412 the life of
I shall deem myself honored by a letter from you, whenever
your leisure will permit, and as I promise myself both amusement
and instruction from your letters, I hope you will meet my wish.
I shall be happy when you revisit us to accommodate you with a
lodging, such as the situation of my family will admit of.
Mrs. Gansevoort joins with me in wishing you health. Believe
me, when I assure you that I am, Your friend,
Leonard Gansevoort, Jun.
TO RIGHT HON. LORD SOUTHAMPTON.
Kinderhook, 2d January, 1786.
My Lord :
Having had the honor of conversing with your lordship on
the subject of Warrensburgh, I presume, from what passed then,
that my addressing your lordship upon the present occasion will
not be deemed presumptuous, or impertinent. I have had two
visits from these people, in each of which they expressed their anx
iety about a settlement, and, though I will not trouble your lord
ship with the particulars of our conversation, I cannot help remark
ing , that I am very apprehensive that the adjustment of this mat
ter will be attended with many difficulties. They want some
specific proposals from the proprietors, as to the terms they mean
to sell or lease upon, nor do I think that unless such are previously
made, the partition will be effected without opposition.
I am conscious, my lord; how difficult it is for people in Eng
land to form adequate ideas of the state of landed property in this
country. From the habits of thinking which prevail there, arising
and confirmed by the daily experience of the steady influence and
energy of the laws, they naturally suppose that there is always a
remedy, where there is a right. The idea that land can be vacant,
where there is a legal title, would appear to them to be a solecism;
and they would stare if they heard their yeomanry avowing and
justifying their occupancy of other people's lands, by observations
drawn from the public utility of cultivating and replenishing the
earth, and by the first and original principles of society. Nor can
it be supposed that the peculiar situation of the country, just emerg
ing out of a state of civil war, and the meritorious services of those

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 413
who have been active in bringing about the Revolution, and their
sufferings in consequence of them, will be omitted. With res
pect to the two extremes, of a state of nature, and a state of re
finement like England, America, in its present situation, cannot
be classed with either.
I hope your lordship will pardon my saying thus much on a
subject, the importance of which I conceive extends beyond the
object immediately under consideration ; my remarks upon which,
however, might well have been spared, if I had recollected how
well informed your lordship manifested yourself to be on these topics,
when I had the honor of seeing you. I will only add, that when
the settlers talk of leases, they always explain themselves as mean
ing durable leases, — that is, leases in fee simple rendering a certain
rent. I have the honor to be, my lord,
Your lordship's most obedient servant,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO HENRY WALTON.
Kinderhook, 18th March, 1786.
My dear Harry :
It is a long time since 1 was favored with your agreeable let
ter of the 3d September, — much longer than is consistent with that
punctuality which I generally observe in correspondences much
less interesting to my feelings, than that with you. You are, how
ever, too considerate not to make allowances for my remissness,
in this instance, when you reflect what has been due from me to
a very large circle of acquaintances and friends, including a long
train of near and dear relations. I found myself so happy among
them in the country, that I insensibly altered my purpose of spend
ing the winter in New- York ; and I was not dissatisfied with my
self, to find that I could so well reconcile myself to a seclusion from
the gayeties and amusements of the town, after being so long a spec
tator, and in some measure an actor in the busy scenes of life.
Comparing Kinderhook with London, the change is great indeed,
even though he was not quite so stupid as Virgil's Meliboeus —
Urbem quam dicunt Romam — You know the rest.
I hope your next will mention your having seen those of my

414 THE LIFE OF
friends whom you know I regard ; I fear regard more than they
do me. Mr. Dumont's silence is truly astonishing. My expecta
tion of a letter from him by every ship, has prevented my writing
Mrs."D., but that expectation has vanished into a mere wish, and
therefore I will try whether female friendship is not a little more
durable. Tell me how she is, particularly. Present my respects
to those worthy families at Mortlake, whose kind hospitality I have
experienced, and will remember with my latest breath. I was re
joiced to hear of Mrs. Phyn's amended health. God grant her a
perfect establishment of it. I saw Mr. Ellice's brother, with his
bride, at the Albany assembly lately — a pretty assembly it was ;
how I wish to describe it to Mrs. Low. This country is very much
polished. I am going to build a pretty little box in this neighborhood ;
I will describe its situation in a future letter, and try to warm your
imagination so much as to enable you to make a sketch of it from
your own fancy. It will be upon a small scale. Simplex munditiis
is the style I shall aim at.
Pray tell me how you are, and how you spend your time, what •
books you are reading, &c. A little dash of Latin or French will
be acceptable. Your vis consilii pleased me much. But I protest
against a quarto edition of your letters ; fill a sheet of folio post,
and you will do something.
May Heaven preserve you, my dear Harry, and may you be all
the friendly heart wishes you, of
Your most affectionate uncle,
P. V. Schaack.
TO ROBERT YATES.*
Kinderhook, 13th March, 1786.
Dear Sir :
If you will accept the inclosed as a mark of my readiness to
comply with your wishes, I shall be amply compensated for the
criticisms which I am confident it cannot escape from your discern
ing eye. I ever thought the qualities of the heart more valuable
than those of the head, and esteem more desirable than fame. It
is but a hasty outline, a crude sketch, and that on a subject I have
* Judge of the Supreme Court of New- York.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 415
never before considered, and do not understand ; but if you think it
capable of being moulded into any thing useful, you may freely
command me, as may the gentleman you mentioned, with whose
character, though a stranger, I am not unacquainted.
I will cheerfully write to England if you think it necessary,
which, however, I do not. Their cobweb niceties and refinements
do not, in my opinion, suit us. In old countries, they are unavoid
able to counteract those evasions and subterfuges to which we are
as yet strangers. Like the ceremonial laws of the Jews, they are
punishments for sins we are not yet contaminated with. I would
as soon suppose the flannels and crutches of a gouty debauchee to
be necessary for a robust American, or the appendages of an old
dowager's toilette ornamental to the bloom of nineteen, as that the
complex subtleties of their practice would be proper for the simpli
city of our courts. Let us not attempt to transplant the tree ; but
let the trunk grow out of our own soil, and if we can get a few
foreign grafts, suited to that and to our climate, it is, I think, all
we want.I do not sufficiently understand the revenue laws of this State,
to know how far any regulations in this case would harmonize or
clash with them. I have avoided using any terms which are
unknown in our practice. One technical term appropriated to the
Court of Exchequer in England, would draw after it a train of con
sequences, which would involve us in a labyrinth. The books of
precedents, into which I have not yet had time to look, will, I
believe, help us out in every thing necessary, whether the trial be
by jury or otherwise.
I beg my respectful compliments to Mrs. and Miss Yates, whom
I promised myself the pleasure of seeing this week, but I fear I
shall be disappointed by a little jaunt to the Manor, and my prepa
rations for going to New-York, which will be sooner, in conse
quence of a letter I have received by the post, than I intended.
I am, with great respect, dear sir,
Your most obedient servant,
Peter Van Schaack.

416 THE LIFE OF

FROM ROBERT YATES.
Dear Sir:
The attention you have bestowed in gratifying my wishes, in
giving your sentiments on the Court of Exchequer lately erected in
this state, demands my sincerest acknowledgments. I am happy
in declaring my fullest approbation of your sentiments, and I hope
I shall be gratified with an opportunity, at New-York, next month,
more fully to canvass with you this subject.
At present, my view is more particularly to recommend to you
the bearer hereof, Major Fairlie, a gentleman for whom I have the
highest esteem, and whose conduct as a soldier, a citizen, and a
gentleman, has justly entitled him to the notice and friendship of
the first characters in the state. He is sensible of the respectful
manner in which you have mentioned him in your letter, and every
further attention, with which you may treat him, will ever be
gratefully acknowledged by me.
Mrs. and Miss Yates join with me in their respectful compli
ments to you. I am, dear, sir, with great esteem,
Your sincere friend, and very humble servant, Robert Yates.
FROM THOMAS HAYES*
Bristol, March 10th, 1786.
My dear Sir:
Your favor of August 30th, dated at Kinderhook, surprised me,
being sooner than I expected ; and more so, when I read your
agreeable account of your reception amongst those who had former
ly been so inimical to you. I do not in the least wonder at the
agitation of your spirits, which must have been so overcharged
with hopes and fears, that every occurrence must have surprised
you. It is a great happiness that the surprise was an agreeable
one, eventually.
The good account you give of the disposition of the inhabitants
of the country is very agreeable and acceptable to me. I pray
God, to increase that disposition to its highest pitch of perfection,
* This gentleman was at one time mayor of the city of Bristol.

4 petervanschaack. 417
and that the reception you have met may continue to your satisfac
tion, and no brown loaf produced in future, and that the peace and
tranquillity you now describe, may endure to the end of time.
How pleasingly different is your description from the daily
accounts published !* By the latter, " the goodness of the govern
ment and virtue of the people" is arraigned ; but your fiat to the
contrary is sufficient for me ; and I will flatter myself will be
realized by the happy fruits to be produced. The latter part of
your letter casts a gloom upon my mind, which was before sufficient
ly laden. I will hope that " the good government and virtue" will
operate to the removal of those harsh conditions.
I expect frequent letters from you. It will be charity towards,
dear sir, Your affectionate friend and humble servant, &c,
Thos. Hayes.
TO REV. WILLIAM MORICE.f
New-York, 4th May, 1786.
Sir: Although I have not had the honor of writing to you, since my
arrival in America, yet I have not been unmindful of the business
you mentioned to me, relative to the property in this state, of the
venerable Society. I have taken occasion to communicate their
resolution to the friends of the church, in different parts of the
state, and requested them to procure all the information they could
upon the subject, that I might be able, from their detail, to give you
a comprehensive view of the whole. But at present I am not
apprised of any estates that will require a conveyance from the
Society, except the one at Fort Hunter, on the Mohawk river.
The particulars I have collected are, that this land was given
by the Mohawk Indians for the use of the church to be established
there; — that it was conveyed to Dr. Barclay; — that the Doctor
* Could a collection now be made of the letters written by Mr. Van
Schaack, on his return to America, to his friends in England, it would furnish
an interesting and valuable picture (although somewhat colored) of the state
of society and of the country at this period.
t Secretary to the venerable Society for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign
Parts.
53

418

THE LIFE OF
*,'

i i i i

conveyed it to the Society, upon their reimbursing him moneys he
had expended upon it, and that the Rev. Mr. Stewart, the Society's
missionary, resided there for some time, and until the commence
ment of the late war, when both he and the Indians, who com
posed his congregation, removed to Canada. I am sorry to add,
that since that time the estate has been much injured for the want
of some person having authority to superintend it, and that at pre
sent it is in the occupation of a tortious possessor, who has taken
advantage of the derelict state it was in, and seems inclined to
divest the Society of its property. Cases of this kind always grow
worse and worse, and often desperate, by delay, and something
decisive ought to be immediately done. ,
In conferring with some respectable members of the church, it
has been proposed, as there is at present no congregation at Fort
Hunter, (the Indians who composed it having long since removed
in a body from thence, and being a tribe now extinct,) that the
profits of this land should be applied to the benefit of the congre
gations of Albany and Schenectady, who, from their vicinity to it,
will be the most capable, and, from its being their interest, most
inclined to pay attention to the property. But, that this should
only continue until a congregation shall be re-established in the
place, when the estate should again revert to its original purpose.
If the venerable Society should be of opinion that this would be a
right measure, as I trust they will, a short deed expressing these
trusts would suffice. If they should think proper to make this deed
more comprehensive, so as to take in any other property they may 1 1 1
have in this State, (though I know of no other,) it would save
trouble in future. This, however, would naturally call their atten
tion to the persons proper to be intrusted on the occasion ; and
hence I am led to remind you of the conversation you favored me
with just before my departure from London.
I then told you, sir, that I thought it would facilitate the be
nevolent objects of the Society, that some leading people in the
state, who were members of the church, should be conferred with,
provided I found, by consulting with Mr. Moore, that this would
be a safe and expedient measure. His concurrence confirmed me i i i
in what I hinted to you, and I communicated the Society's resolu
tion to the Rev. Mr. Provost, to Mr. Jay, Mr. Duane, the Mayor of

j j j j
1 1 1 j

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 419
this city, and to some others ; in each of whom I found an una
bated continuance of their former zeal for the welfare of the
church. If the Society should be of opinion that such a deed as I have
mentioned would be proper, I submit whether it would not be ex
pedient that the following persons should be grantees named in it,
under the trusts to be declared therein ; viz., the Hon. Richard
Morris, Chief Justice, the Hon. Rob't R. Livingston, Chancellor,
his Excellency John Jay, James Duane, Esq., the Rev. Samuel
Provost and the Rev. Benjamin Moore. In mentioning these, or
any other persons, I would be influenced by no other motive, than
that of combining the power with the inclination to serve the
church. The latter, I hope is not confined to so small a number
as both united must necessarily be supposed to be.
With respect to the Society's land in Vermont, from the unset
tled condition of that part of the country, I know not whether any
thing can be done, and yet, if the Society should think a general
deed eligible, I submit whether it might not extend to all the real
estate vested in them within what was formerly the Province, and
is now the State of New-York, and within the territory called Ver
mont. The land at or near Fort Hunter, on the Mohawk river, in
the now county of Montgomery, heretofore Tryon county, and
originally the county of Albany, should I think be particularly
mentioned. Whether the title deeds are in England, or where
else, I have not been able to inform myself.
It will always be a pleasure to me, to afford my feeble assis
tance in the service of the Society, whenever they will honor me
so far as to point out an occasion.
I am, very respectfully, sir,
Your most obed't serv't, Peter Van Schaack.
TO HENRY WALTON. New-York, 30th Nov., 1786.
My dear Harry :
I wrote to you about a week ago, inclosing a letter to our little
Nancy. It was to have gone by Mr. John Leake, but was unfor
tunately left behind. In my letter I recommended to you to go

420 THE LIFE of
frequently into Westminster Hall, to take notice of the four great
courts there, to attend on some arguments, especially in the King's
Bench, — to pay particular attention to Lord Mansfield, whose
name sounds as loud here as in England, — to go also into the
Temple, and remark the public offices, the names of which you
will see affixed up there. Lincoln's Inn Hall, the Six Clerks
Office, Chancery-lane, the Roll's Chapel in the same street, Ser
jeants' Inn, Fleet-street, Guild-Hail, in the city, you must occasional
ly peep into. Doctors' Commons you must also traverse a little.
I will make this superficial view of use to you when I see you.
Lord Loughborough in the Common Pleas, Judge Buller in the
King's Bench, and the great Lord Thurlow in the Court of Chan
cery, should have your notice. Make yourself familiar, also, with
the names of some of the most eminent counsel at the Bar. If
this reaches you time enough for the Essoin day of Hilary Term,
you should look at the procession from Great Ormond-street. Get
into the House of Peers, and House of Commons two or three times.
Mr. Dorington, at the latter, I dare say, would do you the favor of
introducing you upon the mention of my name, whom he formerly
honored with his acquaintance, and who remembers him with pleas
ure. Go into .every hole and corner of Westminster Hall. Take it
upon my word that this will be no waste of time. Impressions made
through the medium of the eyes and ears are the most lasting.
In your way to Falmouth, you should stop at Salisbury, and
see the Cathedral and Wilton House. Stone-henge is also in its
neighborhood. Exeter Cathedral will also engage your attention.
The tin mines in Cornwall, and the Stannaries, you must talk about.
Capt. Dillon, Capt. Peters and Capt. McDonough, at Falmouth, I
doubt not, will be ready to be acquainted with you on my account.
My best regards to them. Mrs. Tate will give you a letter to the
Governor of Pendennis Castle ; Mr. Whitehead, perhaps, to some
body at Exeter and Salisbury. Your uncle will probably recom
mend to you to take lodgings in London, for a little time before
you set out. Let me advise you to be quite ready, a day or two
before you determine to come away. Be collected, and form your
plan at leisure, and with a view to every thing which relates to it,
from the beginning to the end. You are a young traveller, my
dear Harry, and must not think too lightly of the business.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 421
I wish you to get acquainted with some young gentleman study
ing the law, who would be a Cicerone to you. Your uncle will
write to Mr. Hayes to introduce you to Mr. Lane, but he will not
be able to attend you ; perhaps one of his clerks may. Buy the
newest edition of Blackstone's Commentaries, and dip in the 1st and
3d volumes ; the former about the English constitution, the latter
about the courts — those of Westminster Hall, in particular. Some
of the newest and best books of practice, Mr. Lane will perhaps
point out. Whieldon, in Fleet-street, is a bookseller of reputation.
Bring out a new Coke upon Littleton. God bless you, my dearest
boy. Yours affectionately,
P. V. S.
TO HIS SON. Kinderhook, 31st Bee, 1186.
My dear Harry:
Yours of the 16th reached me two days ago. You need not
have apologized for want of method in your letter, because, take it
for all in all, it is the most correct of all you have favored me
with ; the hand-writing I cannot say much for, nor I suppose do
you care, as that is considered by many to be beneath the attention
of a gentleman.
As to Mr. B.'s dialogue, I like the idea very well. I once at
tempted something of this species of composition, though between
different persons, and I took the hint, as I suppose your friend did,
from Lord Littleton,* an excellent man ! whose character merits
imitation, but who was cursed in a son, who is deservedly the object
of general detestation. I have not the pleasure of knowing Mr. B.,
but you should take nothing upon trust. Examine the piece well,
and first be convinced of its merit as a composition, before you agree
to speak it. You should consider that if it is deficient, there is a great
er objection to your adopting it, than there would be to your speak
ing it if it was your own ; for in the latter case you would be re-
* Among Mr. Van Schaack's manuscripts, was found the fragment of a
curious political dialogue, in his hand -writing, between the ghost of "Lord
Chatham," and " Mr. Charles Townshend," which the author has no doubt
is the composition alluded to. Just enough of this fragment remains to pro
voke curiosity. See Appendix K.

422 the life of
sponsible only for its defects, but in the other, not only those are
fairly imputed to you, but with this additional stigma, that defec
tive as it is, it is still better than you could compose yourself. I have
not expressed myself so well as I could do, but you will take my idea ;
and I submit it whether it is true or false criticism. I am not
clear in it myself — I know by experience that first impressions are
ndt to be implicitly adopted, but should be received cumgrano salis ;
i. e. with grains of allowance and hesitation. I leave this matter
entirely to your own discretion and judgment ; but then pray exer
cise these faculties before you determine. Indeed, I trust you will
do so in every part of your conduct, and in every transaction of
your life.
As to your oration, it is yet too early to have made any other
progress in it, than to begin collecting materials. Like building
a house, this should precede putting it together. You may form
some general plan of the dimensions, and the greater parts of it,
but the subdivisions, the nice arrangements, the embellishments,
must be a work of more time. One thing I must tell you ; you
must think of it again and again. You are not to expect ideas to
come by chance, or spontaneously, any more than that a field would
render a crop without culture. The harrow and the plough must
be used, and, by the way, you must also have a strong fence to
keep out animals, and to prevent them from destroying the young
and growing crop. Ridiculous notions, vain conceits, idle projects,
are as pernicious to the mind, as horses, cattle and hogs are to a
wheat field.
I have been out but once since my return, having been much
engaged in considering several knotty points. I was determined to
finish all I could before the new year, and have happily succeeded.
I shall pay a visit to Pittsfield, and the 9th we open our court at
Claverack. I wish you could be there, as we shall do it with some
solemnity.* We all join in our wishes for a happy new year to
you. My compliments to Mr. Johnson, and to all your relations.
Yours most affectionately,
P. V. S.
* The county of Columbia was organized in 1786.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 423
TO HENRY WALTON.
Kinderhook, 15th June, 1787.
My dear Harry :
Having written to you fully about your not coming over as
we once proposed, while I was at New-York in April, I shall not
resume that subject.
I have received the silk stockings I wrote for, but my directions
about the size of the feet have not been attended to. Your omis
sion of some other trifles I mentioned, I impute to your close at
tention to your studies. As I am not quite so assiduous, your mem
orandums, if any you will favor me with, shall be attended to.
Do you ever see Mr. and Mrs. Lediard 1 Pray remember me
to them. I owe a letter to Mr. L. and many thanks for his care
of my things, which came safe. But my time has been so occu
pied, as you may well suppose, that I am obliged to give up many
of my correspondences. You can hardly imagine what an active
life I have led, between pleasure and business.
Remember me to Mr. and Mrs. Low, Mr. and Mrs. Phyn, Miss
Constable, Mr. and Mrs. Ellice. Is Miss Constable still unmar
ried 1 Tell her Englishmen are no judges of female merit. She must
come over here, where the clergymen have so much employment
in tying matrimonial knots, that they can hardly find time for the
other parts of their function. But, apropos, I have heard she is
going off the stage, but that she will be a Belle, even then, as she
has been heretofore.
Our summer amusements are just beginning, and a great deal
of gay company is expected at Bath,* which is in this neighbor
hood. Perhaps you'll say, II est fait au badinage. We don't take
pleasure here by rule or fashion, but it is pleasure nevertheless.
Adieu, my dear Harry, mon chere ami !
Yours affectionately,
P. V. S.
\
, What a beautiful picture is presented to the view, in the pure
and ripened friendships of the revolutionary period, and of that
s * Lebanon Springs.

424 THE LIFE OF
which immediately preceded it ! Around no one individual did
these characteristics of an age, distinguished as much for its vir
tuous simplicity as for its disinterested patriotism, cluster in such
profusion as about the subject of this sketch. The restricted com
pass of this work forbids any further illustrations of this remark
than have already been exhibited, — if, indeed, they could be
deemed necessary, — and yet there is one honored name which
should not be overlooked in this connection. A letter written in
1786, by Richard Harrison, to the subject of this sketch, on pro
fessional business, contains this remark : " I am not only in the
land of the living, but as much your friend as ever, that is, as much
as it is possible to be the friend of any man."

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 425

CHAPTER XXI.
9
In September, 11%/, the Federal Constitution, as prepared by
the National Convention assembled at Philadelphia, was submitted
to the people of the different States, for their adoption. Mr. Van
Schaack took a deep interest in the subject, employing his pen,
and devoting a large share of his time, in exertions to enlighten
the public mind on the subject. It is no slight evidence of the high
estimation in which he was held by his fellow-citizens, that so
soon after his return from his exile, he should have been put in
nomination as a candidate for the county of Columbia, to the State
Convention called to pass upon the Constitution. He was not, how
ever, chosen ; a decided majority of the electors being opposed to
the acceptance of that instrument. TO HENRY WALTON.
( Kinderhook, 3d June, 1788.
My dear Harry :
Your favor of the 2d April made me happy a few days since,
as the watch did the lady, whose thanks accompany mine for your
attention. Its merit must be estimated by time, and I hope it will
be able to keep that, which all the charms of female beauty can
not. Non sum qualis eram, is a truth every lady's glass will re
mind her of, when the bloom of youth yields to a more autumnal
season of life.
I have lost my election, without being much mortified. The
popular tide was against us, that is, (to be sure,) against what
was right and good. I recommend the new Constitution to your
attentive perusal, and you should dip into Montesquieu, 13 B. 6 Ch.,
and 1 Blackstone, upon the English government. European stric
tures upon our federal Constitution, I should like to see ; as I verily
believe it will take place, maugre all the objections of this State.
54

426 THE LIFE OF
A frame of government held out to the people at large for discus
sion, is a phenomenon in political annals. You cannot conceive
what agitation it has occasioned ; it was a war of tongues, but a
few bloody noses have been the consequence. I have mounted
the rostrum several times, and harangued the multitude on law,
government and politics. Our Convention meets soon, and I will
hint to your uncle G. W. to send you the debates. We have some
very great men among us, and a wonderful degree of information
among the common people. Public speaking is much in vogue,
and were you here you would be reminded of the days of ancient
Greece and Rome. In free governments there will always be much
intrigue. But, I will perhaps take up this subject more method
ically hereafter. Make yourself master of the new Constitution,
and also of one or two of the State Constitutions, which you can
buy opposite Burlington House.
Be assured, my dear Harry, that I am as warmly your friends
as ever, which, could you feel the glow of my heart at this moment,
you would be convinced of. May God bless you !
Yours affectionately, Peter Van Schaack.
What are you studying now 1 A law publication once in a
way will be acceptable. TO HIS SON.
Kinderhook, 29th June, 1788.
My dear Harry :
I intended to have been at Poughkeepsie before now ; but it is
impossible for me to be absent from home during the whole session
of the Convention, and therefore I will postpone my attendance to
the conclusion, and the summing up. Perhaps were I to know
the day fixed for discussing the judiciary power, I might, for the
sake of so interesting a debate, deviate a little from the above plan.
My views are rather directed to the aggregate than to the detail ;
but at your time of life you should be equally attentive to the
parts, as that will enable you to judge of the combination of the
whole. I wish you was a little more circumstantial. You give me,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 427
indeed, a prospect of the Convention, but it is a distant one. I
see it is composed of men and some speakers, but you describe
them not minutely, nor mark their characteristic difference from
each other. I see their speeches as I might their persons, at a
distance, without a delineation of their features. You point out a
valley, but do not describe the verdure with which it is covered,
the serpentine streams with which it is intersected, the trees which
.diversify it, the flowers which enrich its banks, nor the weeds,
which with baleful vegetation obstruct the growth and beauty of
the fruit. You say, "Messrs. H., I., the Chr. and H, to me suffi
ciently proved," &c. I hope you retain the arguments by which
they convinced you.
Let me beg of you, my dear Harry, to prepare yourself for the
debate on the 111th Art., I mean, respecting the judiciary power.
Write down the different classes of causes of which the federal
•courts are to have cognizance. The enumeration of particular
cases necessarily implies an exclusion of all others. You will
perhaps find this article a source of more casuistry than all the
others taken together. The infinite variety of controversies, the
"thin partitions" which divide, and the almost imperceptible shades
of difference which discriminate one case from another in judicial
determinations, we experience every day, under all the light of
established practice. What an Herculean task, then, must the
Federal Convention have had, in forming an arrangement new in
the political world ! The judicial power is to extend to all cases
in law and equity. Of what description will the different tribunals
be to which this power will be distributed, and among them how
apportioned 1 The appellate jurisdiction is to extend to law and
fact. Turn your attention to the existing courts in our State, to
know which is a court of law, which of equity, which decides
without the intervention of a jury, upon the fact as well as the
law. Ad questiones juris respondent judices,facti juratores. Re
member this is a common law maxim, unknown to the civil law,
i. e. the Roman or imperial law. The latter knows not of a jury.
A proper inquiry for you to make of your more enlightened profes
sional friends, is, have we in our State, and have they in England,
any and what courts proceeding according to the course of the civil
law 1 You will be answered, the Court of Chancery and the Ad-

428 „ THE LIFE OF
miralty fall under this description. The appellate jurisdiction as to
fact, will not therefore extend to cases where the fact has been
found by a jury, but to those where the fact has been tried by the
court ; that is, a court of that species which decides upon the fact
as well as the law, that is civil law courts. Q. E. D.
If I have been a little obscure in what I have said, one advantage
will result from it. You will honor my letter with a second perusal,
for your partiality to me will not let you suppose that I write non
sense. You should occasionally recur to the specimens you have
in your reading met with, of ancient oratory, "the thunder of
Demosthenes, and the splendid conflagration of Tully." Human
nature is the same in all ages; habits and manners vary. Which
of our present orators would have resembled those of antiquity, had
they lived in those days ; or which of the ancient orators, according
to the doctrine of the transmigration of souls, are at present in the
Convention at Poughkeepsie 1 I am told Mr. Jay's arguments, like
the rock of Ajax, knocked down all opposition, and like the pillar
of fire which conducted the Israelites through the wilderness,
showed us the way out of our many embarrassments.
Yours, with affection and esteem,
P. V. S.
In 1788, a law work which had appeared before the Revolu
tion, was republished at New-York, entitled the " Conductor
Generalis, or the duty and authority of Justices of the Peace, High
Sheriffs, Under Sheriffs, Coroners, Constables, Gaolers, Jurymen
and Overseers of the Poor," &c. It appears, on its title-page, to
have.been revised and adapted to the United States of America, "by
a gentleman of the law." Mr. Van Schaack was the editor re
ferred to, and the work was one of great utility and convenience,
not only to magistrates, but to professional men and the public
generally. What connection he had with it as published previous
to the Revolution, is unknown.
It has been considered creditable Jo Mr. Van Schaack, that he
-evinced no desire to enter the path of political distinction, on his
return to America. His course, in this respect, was not only con
sonant to a determination deliberately formed before he left Eng
land, "not to aspire to any elevation beyond that of a quiet,

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 429
unmarked citizen," but, as appears from the following letter, he
was influenced by a conviction that he could be more useful to his
country in a private than in a public station.
* TO HIS SON.
Kinderhook, 22d February, 1789.
My dear Harry:
I was made happy with your letter of the 15-18th instant by
yesterday's stage, and thank you for your communications in the
political line, and hope your presages respecting the residence of
Congress will be verified. I look forward to the important event
of the organization of the Federal Government, with sincere plea
sure, and unless I egregiously mistake my own heart, it is a plea
sure derived from the love of my country. Whether we shall in
fact derive all those salutary effects which we hope for from the
new government, and which the theory of it, I think, so well jus
tifies, is yet a matter of speculation. If we have virtue in the exe
cution of it equal to that which I verily believe animated the fram-
ers of it, there would be nothing to fear. But, alas ! instead of
men who will endeavor to act up to its spirit, and to give it a fair
and liberal experiment, it is much to be feared that many will
come within those walls for the very purpose of defeating or em
barrassing it.
Let me recommend to you to attend closely to every proceeding
of this great assembly. Read over and over again the Constitution,
especially any clauses which may be the subject of argument and
diversity of opinions ; and you should revolve in your mind what
passed at the Convention at Poughkeepsie, where your attendance
was certainly not for amusement only. Mr. Silvester is held up as
a candidate ; he signified his wishes to the contrary, but at the
same time declared that he conceived it the duty of every citizen,
to give up his own inclinations to the voice of the people. If he
succeeds in this anti-federal district, I shall be much deceived,
though he will have many votes this year which he had not the
last. I was talked of, but very early declared in explicit terms
that I would not be held up. Indeed, I returned to my country
with a fixed determination to keep out of public life. The instance
of last spring was an exception to the rule, not an infraction of it.

430 the life of
It was a peculiar case and justified by the occasion. I am persuaded
that as a private citizen I can do more good than I could do in any
official character. As to contested elections, my experience in
England, as well as in my native country, has given me an abhor
rence of them. In this State, where the mode of ballot is estab
lished by the Qonstitution, the iniquity practised in elections is a
shocking violation of the very principles upon which that species
of voting is founded. I could dilate this subject by a train of rea
soning, and a detail of facts which fully convince my mind.
Our sleighing I believe is about leaving us, which will make
us very dull here ; but I shall not regret a little respite. Solitude
has its charms and its advantages. " Nunquam minus solus, quam
cum solus," said the old Philosopher. I can frequently say the same
thing. Adieu ! Believe me with affection and solicitude,
Your sincere friend, Peter Van Schaack.
TO THE SAME.
Kinderhook, 2d March, 1789.
My dear Harry :
I received from you yesterday a short letter with a number of
inclosures, which were immediately delivered according to their
respective address. Your anxiety to hear from me must have been
gratified by the long letter I wrote to you the 22d, by Mr. De Witt
Clinton. This anxiety is certainly very flattering to me, because,
it induces a belief that you read my letters with attention ; other
wise you would not certainly wish me to write them. Under that
idea, writing to you will always be a pleasure to my mind, what
ever it may be to my eyes. On a contrary supposition, it would
be a burthen to both. The fact of attention or inattention can in
the dernier resort he decided only by the tribunal within your own
breast. Presumptions arising from circumstances, whether light,
probable, or violent, (I talk in the language of our profession,) must
yield to this decision. Examine yourself well, for remember that
a man is not a greater stranger to another than the same man is to
himself, without a great deal of self-examination. Young men de
spise the notions of old ones as they do the cut and fashion of their
coats ; but believe me a little prudence will not incumber you, nor

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 431
a Aa&iY of attention destroy the politeness of your manners, nor the
gracefulness of your address.
Wednesday next* will be a great day at New- York, and for
all America. Jam nova progenies ccelo dimittitur ah alto — Esto
perpetua ! Adieu ! Yours affectionately, ,
Peter Van Schaack.
On the 27th day of April, 1789, Mr. Van Schaack was mar
ried to Elizabeth Van Alen, the daughter of a reputable farmer
residing in the town of Kinderhook. This lady not only bore the
same name with the first Mrs. Van Schaack ; she possessed the
same lovely disposition, and the like crowning virtues, which
ripened into an elevated Christian character, and rendered her an
object of the highest respect and regard to all around her. " Her
sweetness of disposition, goodness of heart and attention to her
business as the mistress of a family," (as described by him in a
letter at this period,) were to him " invaluable qualities," and,
until death severed the tender tie, he experienced in her society
what was his leading object in forming the connection — " a tran
quil, contented life." TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
Kinderhook, 3d May, 1789.
My dear Brother:
I refer you to the letter you will receive herewith, only adding
that all my favorable hopes with respect to my wife are every day
and every hour more and more accomplished. I am as happy a
man as any in the United States, or the united state either. My
mind has resumed a tranquillity it has long been a stranger to, and
I trust in God, and the principles I judge from, that it will remain
so. She is certainly one of the best girls in the world, and I am
persuaded she will not only manage my family as an excellent
housekeeper, but besides being a pleasing companion to me, will
make an easy figure at the head of my table. The happiness
of life is composed of a thousand little ingredients, which are of
* The day fixed by Congress for commencing proceedings under the Fed
eral Constitution.

432 THE life of
more weight taken together than a brilliant, elegant appearance.
She begins already to acquire a degree of confidence, which,
grounded upon a great share of native modesty, and even timidity,
will form an agreeable character. You and my dear sister would
rejoice, if you knew how virtuously happy I am. What an admi
rable thing is a virtuous education and a virtuous example ! How
different the qualities to inspire a lasting esteem, and those which
excite a transient admiration ! She, too, is perfectly happy, which
manifests itself in marks of sensibility, that she is not perhaps sup
posed to possess. Excuse me, but the subject is truly interesting.
I hope, you will get the President's speech. What a noble
character ! Yours affectionately, P. V. S.
FROM PETER SILVESTER*New-York, 26th May, 1789.
Dear Sir :
I am much obliged to you for your agreeable favor of the 20th
instant ; it made me the more happy, as I find you are so, in the
choice you have made. I congratulate you both, on this joyful
occasion ; and may you both continue to possess every felicity that
attends the state of matrimony. Make my most respectful com
pliments to the lady, in a manner yet a stranger almost to me, and
I hope she will make up for my absence, (and by that means de
prived of her company,) by visiting my house, and cultivating
friendship and good neighborhood with the mistress of it. You
now, sir, will be well settled, and partake of those comforts and
pleasures at home that cannot be found abroad. Domestic life
may be chequered with some troubles and anxieties, but ought we
to receive so much good and repine at trivial evils 1 You can
easier understand all these things than I can describe them, or
have leisure to express them more clearly.
I really think the President! deserves all the encomiums you
bestow on him : ^nd I heartily join you in the wish, that he may
long live as a blessing to his country. It is impossible to describe
the joy in every countenance, at the different times of his arrival
* Attending Congress at New- York. f Washington.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 433
and inauguration, and the decency and decorum observed by all
orders ; and then, at the delivery of his speech to both houses, you
would have been struck with wonder and admiration at his modest,
and at the same time the affecting and majestic manner in which
he delivered it. He is a man of virtue and religion. He attends
divine service constantly, morning and afternoon, every Sunday.
To-day some debates took place respecting a compensation to be
allowed him, but it was postponed, and referred to a committee to
report upon that and allowances to senators and representatives.
The contested election respecting Mr. Smith from Carolina
was determined in his favor ; it was something of a nice question,
but I was clear enough in my own mind. It was almostrunanimous.
If I can make time before I close this I shall give you a short state
of his case. '
The Jersey contested election is referred to a committee to hear
and report facts. The impost bill has passed one house, but the
bill for collecting that impost is not yet finished. It is determined
in our house, that there shall be three great departments, one for
Foreign Affairs, one for War, and one for the Treasury;, arid each to
have a head. It was moved for a fourth, to wit, for Domestic Af
fairs ; the last is not yet determined by our house, and if it is not
made out clearly to be necessary at present, it will not, I believe,
be allowed. I have not seen Mr. Jay once since I have been here,
though I waited on him at his house and left a card. I shall do
what you request respecting the laws, and am, with salutations to
your bride, Your friend, well-wisher, and
Humble servant,
P. Silvester.
TO HENRY VAN SCHAACK.
Kinderhook, 1th February, 1790.
My dear Brother :
General Schuyler informs me that he has written to you and
analyzed Hamilton's report ; and he asks my opinion upon that
important subject. I give it as my opinion that it is, in my apprehen
sion, unexceptionable. The adoption of it is I believe pretty certain.
Public credit will rest on a sure basis, because founded on public
55

434 THE life of
justice and good faith. Hamilton seems to have profited by the
practice of the wisest European nations, England especially. His
language relative to the funds, is the more intelligible to me from
my having been a witness of buying, selling and transferring stock
in the market. Sedgwick tells me the business will resolve itself
into four points. 1. Whether there shall be any discrimination.
2. Shall the interest' due be converted into capital1? 3. Shall the
State debts be assumed? and, 4. What shall be the rate of interest1?
He is for the affirmative in every one of these points ; the two first
he thinks will be generally agreed to, not so the third and fourth.
The accession of Rhode Island, he thinks next to certain, and the
Vermont business is to be taken up very soon.
New-York is a most important theatre just now. The general
government seems to carry all before it. The criminal code i sto
be taken up, as is the militia arrangement, very soon. The terrors
of the law will hang over evil doers. My hopes of wise measures
are very strong. Never was there a country, I believe, where the
public offices of state were filled with such talents. The Supreme
and District courts are opened ; in the latter the grand-jury are
now sitting. I long to see the Judge's charge. I have had but
one wish, and that is that the commonalty may see the measures
pursued in their true light. They will suspect that the funding of
the public debt is to enrich individuals. That may be the conse
quence, but not the motive. What else can be done 1 The virgin
measures of the new government, like the virgin treaty of the late
Congress, should be pure and inviolable. Much specie is expected,
and with good reason, from foreign countries, as soon as public
credit is established.
Adieu. Our love to you and yours. Affectionately yours,
P, V. S.
TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 20th Sept., 1791.
Dear Sir :
Various causes, some of them of a very unpleasing kind, have
prevented my answering your favor of the 15th July till this late
moment. I thank you, however, most sincerely for it. I now

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 435
return the pamphlets, but without having been able to go through
them. I must leave those great subjects to minds more capacious.
I own the affairs of Europe affect me but little. My concern
about political matters centers in my native country.
My brother was made extremely happy, by the manner in
which you mentioned him and the evening you spent with him. I
fear that a man who expresses pleasure in attentions shown by
you, may be suspected of other motives than friendship, especially
in Massachusetts, for no man, I verily believe, is more admired and
esteemed than yourself in that commonwealth. The confidence of
the people at large in our judiciary, is perhaps one of the most
pleasing circumstances attending our infant government. Indeed,
the aspect of our affairs is encouraging in the extreme. May God
grant that you may reap the fruit of your labors, in seeing the
prosperity of your country established on a firm basis.
The Dutch prophecy did not come up to what I supposed, nor
have I been able to see my kinsman so as to be able to state to
you what it really is, which has been one cause of my not writing
to you before. I shall not be unmindful of the conversation we
had when you was here, if I obtain any information on this subject
worthy of being communicated to you. My wife thanks you for
your remembrance of her, and wishes you would repeat the kind
visit you made us. I cannot express, my dear sir, how warmly
I join in this wish. My brother and Mr. Silvester thank you for
your remembrance of them, and unite in compliments. I beg my
respects to Mrs. Jay, and regards to my namesake. With the warm
est friendship, believe me, my dear sir, sincerely yours,
Peter Van Schaack.
FROM THEODORE SEDGWICK.
Philadelphia, 20th Nov., 1791.
My dear Sir :
I have had the pleasure to see a letter of yours addressed to
our friend, Mr. Benson. It contains very curious information. I
will obey the wish you express, to give you some account of the
doings of Congress, or rather of our public affairs.
You will doubtless have observed the several important subjects
which the President has recommended to consideration ; in addition

436 THE LIFE OF
to which, are several others, viz., commercial arrangements, the
judiciary, and, what to my mind is of still greater importance, a
final, complete assumption of all the State debts. With regard to the
first, it requires a very serious attention, should not the business be
settled by treaty, which, will probably be attempted, with the
French and English ministers, who have, it is said, respectively
powers on that subject. With regard to Great Britain, I have
seen the substance of a report of a committee of privy council, by
which it appears that the opinions of Lord Sheffield have made a
deep impression in that country, and that his system, with a few
deviations favorable to American commerce, will be a basis for their
commercial propositions, or treaty with this country. By what
means I became acquainted with this report I might mention to
you was you present, but I must be excused from writing. I have
reason to believe, that it is determined in the cabinet to send min
isters to both those countries, and I have reason to believe the par
ticular characters are determined on, but who they are I could at
present no more than conjecture.
The judiciary. If any thing shall be attempted, the question
will arise in the discussion, whether a reformation shall be attempt
ed by legislating on the constitution as it now stands, or whether
we shall attempt to propose an amendment of it 1 If the former, I
much doubt whether any thing very effectual can be done, because
the greatest embarrassments seem to be inherent in the nature of
the subject. They arise from an administration of justice by two
distinct and independent sovereignties over the same persons, in
the same place and at the same time; and the necessity which will
exist, for the national government, if it shall provide for a complete
execution of its laws, of extending its courts through the whole
extent of country, and multiplying its officers without number. If
it shall be attempted to reform the system by proposing an amend
ment, it may excite all the agitations of federal and anti-federal
passions, which now seem to be dormant, through all the northern
and eastern States. In the consideration of this subject, then,
another question presents itself : Whether it is not, on the whole,
most prudent to do nothing, until the inconveniences resulting from
our present situation shall be more severely felt 1 What say you,
my friend, to this subject 1

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 437
With regard to the assumption of the State debts, you know it
has always been among the most ardent of my political pursuits.
It is true, that the inequalities are not so enormous as formerly,
but still they are infinitely beyond what they should be among the
members of the same nation, and are not only unjust in themselves,
but pregnant with the most dangerous consequences. The subject
will come forward in due time, and I most sincerely wish it suc
cess. Present me most respectfully to Mrs. V. S. and to your brother
and family, and believe me sincerely, with great regard,
Your affectionate friend,
Theodore Sedgwick.
At the State election in April, 1792, John Jay was one of the
candidates for Governor. Mr. Van Schaack took a deep interest
in the success of his friend ; and after the election he wrote a
series of able papers which were published, condemnatory of the
conduct of the canvassers, by whom Mr. Jay's opponent was de
clared to be chosen Governor, in consequence of alleged irregu
larities in the mode of returning the votes of certain counties,
although it was universally conceded that Mr. Jay had received a
majority of the votes actually polled.
TO ANDREW M. CARSHORE.
Kinderhook, 13th April, 1792.
Dear Sir :
I have many apologies to make to you, for my seeming inat
tention to your obliging letters, and the' important subject of them.
I beg you to be assured that nothing but a multiplicity of business
of various kinds, but of indispensable pressure, has occasioned my
silence. I could, indeed, have written to you often, but it must
have been with brevity; and anxious for a leisure hour, I postponed
writing, until I am myself astonished at the lapse of time which has
intervened since your first favor. Let it however be remembered,
once for all, that my silence indicates approbation, and if any use
ful hints which I might possibly give are omitted, the fault must be
imputed to myself. Proceed then, my good sir, according to the
dictates of your mind, suggested by that close and conscientious

438 THE LIFE OF
attention, which you have hitherto bestowed upon the education of
my son. If I comprehend your principle, it is conformable to that
of a great writer who says, " we should teach youth rather how to
think, than what to think." I think I perceive proofs of an activi
ty of mind in Cornelius, which I had the desire, though not the suc
cess, of exciting in him. I have no objection that his progress
should be slow, provided it is sure. In the language of the sailor,
" Let him belay all that." One only of the books sent for is re
ceived, the rest I presume are not to be had;
The leisure hour I have wished for is not yet arrived : a subject
interests all my feelings, absorbs all my attention ; — it is the elec
tion of Mr. Jay. Nothing that is sentimental, can be altogether
foreign from a correspondence with you, and that the present con
test for the office of Governor, considering the characters of the
competitors, embraces the concerns of literature and consequently
education and sentiment, is an undoubted truth. In short, not only
the republic of the state, but the republic of letters, is interested in
the present contest. Mr. Jay is a man of the first rate character; his
talents are distinguished, his acquirements are extensive, and both
conspire to qualify him for a patron of the arts and sciences. His
capacity for legislation, and for negotiation, has been conspicuously
displayed in the formation of our state constitution, and in the com
pletion of a treaty of peace with one of the greatest nations of the
world ; but what adorns his character beyond all praise, is the pu
rity of his integrity, his unwearied observance of every precept of
morality, and above all, his firm adherence in practice, as well as in
argument, to the doctrines of Christianity. Indeed, revealed reli
gion has hardly a more able advocate than is Mr. Jay, nor one who
more readily steps forward not only against " the puny mites of skep
ticism," (as Dr. Young calls them,) but against the giants of Deism
and infidelity. Excuse me for saying thus much of a man whom
I love, because I know him ; and whom I know, because I have
been acquainted with him, almost from childhood. It is a pleasing
consideration, and a favorable indication of the situation of our
country, in a view to its moral character, that this merit is so uni
versally acknowledged, even when contending with " principalities
and powers." As a political question, whether this or that man
should be in office, I should not have troubled you with my obser-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 439
vations upon it ; but in the light I have above considered it, I pre
sume it cannot be an uninteresting subject to you, whether such a
man, succeeds or not : but even in a view purely political, it is, I
conceive, " congenial to our republican form of government," to pre
vent a permanency in office, and the rather when a claim of right
is founded upon enjoyment, which itself arose from the gratuitous
act of the people, and when a tenaciousness is displayed of retaining
it, against the wishes of very considerable numbers, even though
they should not, in the event, prove a majority. An officer, on such
an occasion, should rather voluntarily relinquish, than pertinaciously
persevere, consoling himself, with the mens ¦ sibi conscia recti,
and in retirement enjoy otium cum dignitate. Such a man
might at a future day, like Cincinnatus of old, or a Washington in
modern times, from the plough be called into public action.
I beg my respectful compliments to the Rev. Mr. Gebhard, to
whose obliging favor of the vines, I am much indebted; and also
to Mrs. Carshore, and am,
Dear sir, your sincere well wisher and humble servant,
Peter Van Schaack.
It now becomes us to speak of Mr. Van Schaack as a lawyer.
The reputation which he had acquired before the Revolution, had
placed him in a high rank in his profession, and upon resuming
the practice, on his return from his exile, his office was soon
filled with clients, and he wrote to a friend, in his classical style,
and by way of apology for neglect in his correspondence, that he
was " kept up to the eyebrows in papers, which ought to produce
a golden shower, which you know is not less pleasing, in these days
than it was in those of Danae of old."
The author must here express his utter inability to do justice to
Mr. Van Schaack's reputation as a lawyer. On this subject, he
has been favored with letters from distinguished gentlemen of the
profession, which will be placed before the reader. It should be
remarked, that there were no written reports of cases argued and
decided in the courts of this State, until about fifteen years after
Mr. Van Schaack resumed the practice, and at that time the sight
of his left eye also had become seriously impaired. His name,
therefore, rarely appears in the books.

440 , THE LIFE OF

FROM AMBROSE SPENCER.
Albany, Nov. lftth.
Dear .Sir:
I received your 'letter of the 19th of February last, soon after
its date, and had intended a much earlier notice of it, but procras
tination has produced a delay of which I really feel ashamed, and
beg you to attribute it to any other cause than indifference to the
subject to which you invite my attention. I appreciate properly,
your anxiety to be informed of such events as your late father's
contemporaries may have knowledge of, tending to illustrate- his
character. Although I feel an ardent desire to comply with your
request, yet I cannot but regret that my information will' be mea
gre. I became acquainted with your father in 1786, not. however
intimately so, until 1792, or 1793.
That your father was a finished classical scholar, a learned and '
profound lawyer, and one- of the most upright and conscientious of
men, no man who knew him well, will hesitate to admit. He was
an extremely diffident man ; in fact I never knew a man possessed ,
of his acquirements, both as a general scholar and jurist, so modest*
and unassuming. I have often heard him address a court and
jury with great, effect, but with evident pain and reluctance, so
difficult was it for him to overcome his diffidence. His manner
was cool and unimpassioned, his language choice, even to fastidi
ousness, his reasoning clear, close and logical. He was always
listened to with delight, and his, influence with both court and jury
was unsurpassed. He was for many years the father of the bar in
Columbia county, and no man could be more admired, honored
and beloved by his junior brethren. He patronized, encouraged,
and animated the younger members of the bar, by his advice,
countenance and protection, and instilled into their minds correct
notions of the honor and dignity of the profession, and in fact he
was a model for their imitation. It is due from me to acknow
ledge to his son, that I feel myself deeply indebted to his example
and friendly counsels, for any distinction I may have acquired in
my professional career, and hence I loved and venerated him to
the last moment of his life..
The Constitution of the United States was adopted by the Con-

peter van schaack. 441
vention of this State, in 1788. I was then a very young man,
just entering on the profession of the law, and resided in Hudson.
I well know that your father was a zealous advocate for the adop
tion of the constitution, and promoted, as far as in him lay, its adop
tion by the people. He wrote, according to my best recollection,
several able essays addressed to the public, urging its adoption.
Several of them, I am persuaded, will be found in a paper publish
ed by a Mr. Stoddard, who now resides in Hudson, and can proba-.
bly point out such as were the production of your father's pen.
Your father's vision was imperfect when I first knew him, but
gradually became worse and worse until he was entirely blind.
This calamity, connected with that native diffidence which I'have.
already mentioned, were great impediments in his professional ca
reer, and undoubtedly prevented his attaining that proud eminence
which his great talents would otherwise have won for him.
I am fully aware that you will be disappointed in your expec
tations from me, and I regret that I am unable to give you any
' further aid. There are indeed many incidents treasured up in my
mind, which can never be eradicated ; but they are not of sufficient
importance to be told. I know nothing about your father's editing
the Conductor Generalis; if he was the editor, it was probably
before the Revolution. The work was a very useful one, and
especially for magistrates.
I am very truly and respectfully yours,
H. C. Van Schaack, Esquire. A. Spencer.
FROM JAMES VANDERPOEL. Albany, 20th April, 1839.
Dear Sir :
I write with great difficulty,* or I would have sent you an
earlier answer. I have frequently made an effort to write, but
have as often been obliged to desist. Upon the receipt of your
letter, I flattered myself that I should have been able to go more
mto detail, as it regards your father's character as a lawyer, but
owing to the difficulties I have mentioned, I can merely give you
a short sketch.
After I settled in Kinderhook, your father was not in the habit
* Judge Vanderpoel was laboring at this period, under a stroke of par
alysis, from which he has not recovered. 56

442 THE LIFE OF
of addressing juries at the circuit, or arguing causes at term. I
recollect, however, two occasions on which he addressed the jury
as opening counsel. The first was in the cause of Tryon vs. Mc-
Mechan, and the other in what is generally termed the De Bruyn
cause. . He was extremely dignified and impressive in his manner,
lucid in his arrangement, and choice and elegant in his diction.
He was employed in almost every important cause in the county
of Columbia until a very late period of his life, especially such in
which title to real estate was involved. I was upon several occa
sions associated with him, and I can safely say, that I never knew
a lawyer who investigated a cause more effectually and thoroughly.
He not only established his own propositions by legal deductions
and authority, but anticipated and obviated every objection of his
adversary. His briefs were models of deep research and learning,
and not unfrequently of classic elegance. He was respected by all
the distinguished men of the day, (among whom it is sufficient
merely to mention the names of Kent and Spencer,) as a learned
jurist and accomplished scholar.
Pardon this almost illegible letter. I thought it would not an
swer you any purpose if I delayed any longer, and you must there
fore take it as it is. Your friend,
H. C. Van Schaack, Esq. J. Vanderpoel.
" As a jurist, Peter Van Schaack was distinguished by the ex
tent and depth of his learning — particularly in the law of real
estate — and by the accuracy and admirable method with which
he performed the duties of his profession. His opinions and other
papers on legal subjects were always drawn up with logical pre
cision, and in a style of peculiar purity and elegance. He was
also a fine classical scholar, and was extensively familiar with
English literature. These accomplishments, so rare in the legal
profession, and so ornamental when possessed, in connection with
his profound knowledge of the law, procured for him from Co
lumbia College the honorary degree of 'Doctor of Laws.' He
was one of the oldest surviving alumni of that venerable institu
tion, which has produced few names of which it has greater reason
to be proud."*
- From an obituary notice written by Benjamin F. Butler, Esq., which
appeared in the Kinderhook Sentinel on Mr. V. S.'s decease.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 443
It was said of Mr. Van Schaack as a lawyer, by one who held
an honorable rank in the profession,* that "he never erred."
While it will not be pretended, (nor was it the intention of the
speaker that it should be so received,) that this was literally true,
yet the strong expression conveys an idea of his professional accu
racy, and that profound knowledge of the law, and the apt dis
crimination in the application of its principles, for which he was
distinguished. It is rare for a member of the profession to secure
such a universal confidence in his advice and legal opinions ; and
he was known far and wide as " the great lawyer."
The same individual represented Mr. Van Schaack as not hav
ing been a great speaker, — that he never aimed at eloquence ; but
was remarkable for his uniform correctness and classical diction ;
that he never dilated much, but was brief and to the point; that
he could make a powerful argument to the court, but he was not
so great before^a jury. Alexander Hamilton expressed his admi
ration of Mr. Van Schaack's manner of speaking, and of the sound
ness and accuracy of his views on all questions of civil jurispru
dence. His veneration for the science which he had selected for
his profession, is illustrated by an anecdote which is related of him,
and which is well authenticated, that in a case in which he was
the party in interest, and with the equity on his side, he refused
to take advantage of an opening, (which any other lawyer would
have improved,) because it would violate an abstract principle of
the common law.
As early as 1792, his vision had become so much impaired, as
to render necessary the employment of an amanuensis. In Decem
ber, 1791, he wrote to his friend Theodore Sedgwick, that his
" epistolary pleasures were at an end." Yet he did write some
letters with his own hand after this period, and a volume would
, not contain those he wrote by the aid of the friendly hand of others.
He continued, however, in the active practice of his profession for
twenty years afterwards, by which time he had become almost
totally blind.
From the period of his resuming his profession in 1786, until
1828, when he had reached his 81st year, he was not without one
or more law students. Nearly a hundred young gentlemen have
* Egbert Benson, the first Attorney General of the State of New- York.

444 THE LIFE OF
served all or part of their terms of clerkship under his immediate
charge and instruction. His qualifications as a teacher of the
science of law commanded universal respect and confidence with
gentlemen of the profession ; and he was pre-eminently fitted for
the task. Among the distinguished jurists who have testified their
high estimation of those endowments, by placing their sons under
his charge for legal instruction, were Theodore Sedgwick, Rufus
King, William W. Van Ness, James Kent, and Ambrose Spencer.
An extract will now be given from a letter, written July 24th,
1820, by the last named gentleman to his son, who was at that
time studying law with Mr. Van Schaack :
" I am sensible of the advantages you enjoy under such an able
and amiable instructer as Mr. Van Schaack ; and you cannot flatter
me more, than by supposing that his devotedness to you arises
partly from his friendship to your father. It has been my pride to
be marked with the friendship of such a man in such times; and
although^ Mr. Van Schaack and I have generally differed in our
views of things, politically speaking, it has never, as far as I know,
affected our private regard. On my part, I am certain, that from
my earliest acquaintance with him, which has been for more than
thirty years, I have never ceased to admire and respect him. I have
never been his pupil, and yet I must acknowledge that I have
caught much from him. When he was at the bar, he helped to
mould the young men of his time. He was urbane and very com
municative, and in justice to him I say, that his example has ma
terially influenced my legal acquirements."
He continued to give counsel in his profession, and occasion
ally gave written opinions in critical cases, until he had reached
fourscore. For the last fifteen years of his life, however, he did
not keep an office for the transaction of that branch of the business
of the profession more properly belonging to the attorney. For the
benefit of those students who wished to acquire a knowledge of the
practice, he had compiled an "Analysis of the Practice of the Su
preme Court," in which the general principles of that branch of
the profession were laid down with great clearness and precision,
and the various steps in a suit were pointed out, explained and an
alyzed, in a manner calculated to present to the mind a connected
and short-hand view of what was actually done in the conduct of

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 445
a suit. This little work, although not drawn up in a form suitable
for publication, possessed a great, share of merit, and was highly
useful to his students, particularly in connection with his explana
tions and amplifications, and other oral instructions. It avoided
the objection of generalization, and of burying up in words, (the
common error of most books of practice,) and gave the student a
birdseye view of the course of a suit, exhibiting the different steps
actually taken, in a manner tangible and calculated to make a per
manent lodgment in the student's mind.
FROM JAMES KENT. Albany, June 11th, 1821.
Dear Sir :
I arrived here yesterday from New-York, and found my son at ."
my house. I was very happy to see him, and to find him in good
health and spirits, and much pleased with his residence at Kinder>
hook, and with the society with which he associates, and above all
with your course of instruction. He showed me part of his com
pilation from your Analysis of the Practice of the Supreme Court,
and I was very much pleased with the clear, methodical and per
fectly correct view of the principles and rules of the practice, which
the analysis unfolds. I feel grateful for the kindness you have
showed in loco parentis, and if I can but find that my son is ardent
and accurate in research, and cultivates at the same time, and with
equal ardor, his moral and classical taste, all my anxious hopes will
be fulfilled. I hope to have the pleasure of visiting you before;
long, and in the mean time believe me, to be
Yours very sincerely, James Kent.
Peter Van Schaack, Esq. »
Many of his law students, and particularly those who were poor,
were instructed in that science without any compensation; and his
faithfulness and zeal were not at all lessened in prospect of such a
result. To the parents of most of the others he usually left it to
fix the amount, and if put to himself, it was always moderate,, and
he was ever ready to make a deduction from the charge upon any
equitable suggestion, or to conform to the views of his employer.
It was a pleasing circumstance, to notice the high respect and

446 THE LIFE OF
regard which his students retained for their venerated instructer,
in after life. The following letter furnishes one of numerous evi
dences of this fact. TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Auburn, 19th October, 1821.
Respected and esteemed Sir :
It is with the greatest satisfaction that I recur to the time which
I passed with ybu, my dear sir, in the pursuit of knowledge which
you were so well calculated to impart. Not the least part of the
pleasure I feel, is caused by a recurrence to those seenes in which
you displayed your friendship for me, and by which I was led to
feel that reverence and friendship for you, which now actuates me
in writing to you. I this day had occasion to refer to your excel
lent treatise on the practice of our courts, and the recollections
caused by it roused me to the consciousness that I had neglected to
inform one of my best friends of my situation in life, so totally
different from every former one. It is with regret I feel I have to
apologize, but must plead my excessive ill health and depression of
spirits in excuse.
It would afford me great satisfaction to receive a letter from
you. Could I portray the feelings of my "heart towards you ;
my esteem ; the gratitude your attention to my education excites
within me, and my sense of the delicacy which you have always
observed towards me ; I should be in some measure satisfied. My
present feelings towards you, sir, I hope to carry with me to my
grave. 
When in the eighty-second year of his age, Mr. Van Schaack
might be seen in his study, with his law students around him, im
parting instruction. On the 19th April, 1828, he wrote to a for
mer student* for whom he had a great regard, and who was one
of his principal correspondents in his old age : " You see that like
an old coachman who loves the smack of his whip, I still have some
professional regards — indeed I have some professional occupations,
as I' have two students, on whom I bestow much of my time and
attention, of which I trust they will enjoy the fruits."
? Frederic De Peyster, Esq., New- York.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 447

CHAPTER XXII.
Mr. Van Schaack passed through several very severe and try
ing scenes of affliction, after his return from England. In Febru
ary, 1797, while from home on his way to attend court, he was
roused from his slumbers at midnight, by a messenger apprisino-
him that his oldest son, then in his twenty-ninth year, had been
seized with an apoplectic fit. He died before his father reached
home. This was a severe stroke. He was the son who had been
the object of such anxious and tender solicitude during his exile in
England, and upon whose education so much of his attention had
been bestowed. Two of Mr. Van Schaack's children were at New-
York at the time, and to them he addressed the following letters,
which were preceded by one to a friend requesting him to prepare
their minds for the sad tidings.
TO CORNELIUS AND ELIZABETH VAN SCHAACK.
Kinderhook, 6th February, 1797.
My dear Children :
To-morrow I suppose you will hear of the melancholy event in
our family, which has filled us all with the deepest affliction. This
is a call upon your fortitude, and I pray God that you may be able
to bear the stroke with resignation, and submission to the will of
that Being from whom we receive life, and to whom we must re
sign it ; who knows better than we do ourselves, what is for our
ntn good, and who frequently sends us blessings, when he most afflicts
us. " Thy will be done," must be the aspiration of your hearts.
To-morrow will be performed the last sad offices to your departed
brother, when his remains will be followed by many a bleeding
heart, and by not one which is not filled with sincere and deep re
gret. In your own feelings you will know and experience mine ;
but let us remember that this is a common lot ; though the event

448 THE LIFE OF
might have been delayed, yet it was inevitable ; and, sure as the
stroke is, yet that there is not a day nor an hour, in which some of
our fellow creatures do not labor under a similar affliction. Re
collect how many scenes you have wept over infinitely more dis
tressing to the sufferers than that which now afflicts us.
Your brother died surrounded by his friends, and with every
circumstance that could administer consolation. Lydia's conduct
is just such as you might expect from her sensibility, on the one
hand, and her good sense, discretion and piety, on the other. In
the first moments of the awful change, she expressed a wish to see
her sister Betsey, but she is now fully impressed with the propriety
of her not coming up, until the season will admit of it. She will,
I believe, come to live with us for some time, nor will you doubt
that every thing will be done to assuage her grief and alleviate her
distress. The poor little innocent is perfectly well, and by engag
ing her mother's attention will divert her melancholy. But it is
from time alone that we can expect complete relief. That will
convert the present grief into tender regret. This we know from
experience, and let this idea be cherished by you, as a means to
prevent you from aggravating the misfortune. Let your tender
ness for me, of which I have had so many proofs, have its influence
on this occasion — think of my solicitude for you !
All your friends here unite in affectionate remembrance to you
both. Present the same to your good aunt and uncle, and may the
Almighty enable you to bear His dispensations with becoming re
signation, is the fervent prayer of your truly affectionate
Father and friend,
P. V. S.
TO THE SAME.
Kinderhook, 9th Feb., 1797.
My dear Children :
I will suppose that all our letters, three in number, have safely
reached you, and I will presume that we can judge of the state of
your minds at the time you will receive this letter, by our own, at
this present moment. I have satisfaction in telling you, vthat your
sister Lydia behaves in a manner suited to her excellent judgment
and her amiable disposition, and shows a tranquillity, which I trust

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 449
you also will experience. Let her example stimulate your imitation.
In the midst of her heartfelt grief for the dead, she displays a becom
ing attention to her surviving friends, and to you in particular.
There is a kind of generosity in grief, which leads us to dwell upon
the object, and to be engrossed by it, in exclusion of all others ; but
this is, in some measure, to be resisted. Would your generous
brother not have dissuaded from this indulgence to grief? would
he not have urged the claims of the survivors so dear to him 1 — he
who, with so much studious care, concealed his complaints from
those most near and dear to him ! The ways of Providence are
mysterious, but we ought to have a firm reliance On its wisdom
and goodness. On this subject you are not altogether uninformed,
and it will be your duty to bring into practice, sentiments which
you have admired in theory. Let me bring the following to your
recollection, as leading to a just way of thinking, and a right
frame of mind, on this subject :
" Such to us, though infinitely high and awful, is Providence ; so
it watches over us ; comforting these ; providing for those ; listen
ing to all ; assisting every one : and if sometimes it denies the fa
vors we implore, it denies but to invite our more earnest prayers ;
or seeming to deny a blessing, grants one in that refusal." I doubt
not but Betsey will also think of her favorite hymn.
I am under great apprehensions, lest the tidings from us may
have had an unhappy effect on your good aunt, in whose distress
you know we have so sincerely sympathized ; but alas ! who in
this world is without his share of calamity 1
I am with the tenderest affection, Yours,
P. V. S.
In May, 1811, Mr. Van Schaack's son, John, (his oldest child
then living by the second Mrs. Van Schaack, and who was then
in his twentieth year,) while reciting to his father one evening,
complained of being unwell. The next day he was taken down
with typhus fever, and died ten days afterwards. He was an ami
able and promising youth — had just finished his collegiate course,
and was to have taken his first degree at Union College a few
weeks afterwards. 57

450 THE LIFE of
Less than two years after this, another and still more severe
stroke of affliction awaited him. In January, 1813, Mrs. Van
Schaack, while practising the Christian virtue of charity, for which
she was eminently distinguished, in visiting a poor family in the
neighborhood, exposed herself to a fatal disease. She was taken
sick on Saturday night with the epidemic then prevailing and scourg
ing the country, and lingered until Friday following, when she
expired, in the forty-eighth year of her age.
This second bereavement of a similar description, and one
peculiarly severe to him at his advanced age, and in his then state
of almost total blindness, was submitted to by him with resigna
tion and perfect submission to the will of Divine Providence ; and
great as was the loss to him, not a murmur escaped his lips. He
had enjoyed twenty-four years of tranquil felicity in her society,
and death, in this instance, severed a tie rendered sacred by the
utmost harmony, and by a reciprocal solicitude and affection. On
the next ensuing anniversary of the day of her death, Mr. Van
Schaack, at an early hour, and immediately after breakfast, re
paired to an upper and secluded room in his house, where he
remained in solitude through the day, without coming down to
dinner. It was a day spent in solemn meditation upon her nu
merous virtues : and what must not have been the contemplations
of that vigorous yet sensitive mind, in reviewing the numerous and
touching scenes of a long and eventful life !
Mr. Van Schaack was as tender of the sensibilities of others,
as he was tolerant in his political sentiments. He could not en
dure to have the feelings, or even the prejudices of his fellow-
creatures sported with. This amiable trait in his character was
particularly exhibited towards those whom Providence had placed
under him as domestics, and he was also remarkably kind to them.
He had a faithful old male servant to whom he was very much
attached, and whose regard for him was equally great. This old
servant fell a victim to the epidemic before mentioned. In a
letter to an absent son, he thus feelingly speaks of his death :
" What I wrote to you respecting poor Colly has produced anx
ious feelings in you, I am sure. They have been but too fatally
realized. He is no more. You will shed a tear over the remem
brance of him, as he would have done over you, had you been

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 451
called away before him. My loss is not inconsiderable, but, in
point of property, not irreparable. In every calamity and disap
pointment, if we diligently seek resources, by the providence of
God we shall find them. As to the poor old man, I can truly say,
— non meminis.se pigebit.
Mr. Van Schaack was frequently cheered in his retirement, by a
visit from his old friend Egbert Benson, whose social and travelling
inclinations usually brought him to Kinderhook several times a
year, even after they had both reached fourscore. There was a
room in his house known as "Judge Benson's room." In the
spring of 1818, they went from Kinderhook to Bedford, in the
Judge's one-horse wagon, (the Judge being driver,) to visit their
mutual and bosom friend Mr. Jay. They were both, at this time,
upwards of seventy. TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 2d April, 1825.
My dear Sir:
As my son David is going to New-York for two or three days,
I avail myself of the occasion to present you with this token of my
friendly remembrance, and permit me to add with emphasis my
grateful remembrance, and at the same time to express my sincere
wishes for the health and happiness of all under your roof, in which
my children cordially unite. I have sometimes heard of you through
my young friend F. De Peyster, Jr., and have been gratified to
learn, that you enjoy your usual state of health. Mr. De Peyster
has also informed me of friendly inquiries about me by your sons,
which has afforded me no small pleasure. My health is very good,
and were it not for the established complaint in my eyes, I should
be able to visit my friends at a distance, and particularly yourself.
Nor has it been a little mortifying, that upon full consideration I
have been compelled to resist your friendly invitation. As it is, I
am a fixture to my habitation, and from habit have become perfect
ly reconciled to it, and can say with Horace ; " Lceviusflt patientd,
quicquid corrigere est nefas." You and I, my friend, have lived
in an eventful period and a long one too, " in life if long can be."
The emancipation of our Southern neighbors from the thraldom
of Spanish slavery and superstitious bigotry, must have afforded

452 THE LIFE OF
you, as it has me, sincere pleasure. I must only hope, that
in the frame of their government they will imitate ours, and that
in forming their constitutions they will not " build a Chalcedon,
with a Byzantium before their eyes."
Benson spent two or three days with me last January, in his
way to Albany, since which I have not heard from him nor of him,
except a publication of his in an Albany paper ; I do not therefore
know where his ubiquity has placed him at present. That this
course of life may promote his health and happiness, is my earnest
wish. Permit me to conclude with the assurances of my constant
and unabated friendship. Yours sincerely, P. Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Bedford, Westchester County, 12th April, 1825.
My good Friend :
On the 9th inst., I had the pleasure of receiving your letter of
the 2d, and of learning from it that your health was then very
good. Mine continues to decline. I can neither read nor write
much at a time without fatigue. Since Christmas, until the day
before yesterday, (when I went to church,) I have been constantly
confined to the house. I nevertheless seldom suffer from severe
pain ; and in various respects have great reason to be thankful.
Although your health and strength remain undiminished, yet
the inconveniences resulting from the present state of your eyes
are greatly to be regretted. Had I the same complaint, I should
think it advisable to consult some of the excellent surgeons at
New-York, and be guided by their advice as to the expedience
of recurring to the operation, which is frequently and successfully
performed in such cases. Your remark from Horace on the efficacy
of patience under the pressure of calamity, is certainly just.
Whenever patience comprehends resignation, it becomes an excel
lent palliative ; especially to those who believe that afflictions are
often dispensed for merciful purposes.
Circumstanced as we both are, there seems to be but little
probability of our having many opportunities of renewing those
social interviews which we formerly and cordially enjoyed. Our

peter van schaack. 453
time of life is approaching to a period when scenes more durable
and more interesting, than those of temporal enjoyments or sufferings,
will occupy our attention.
I have not seen our friend Benson since September last. He
was then very well. His frequent journeys doubtless conduce to
his health, and the pleasure he takes in them easily reconciles him
to occasional inconveniences. I should have been glad to receive
your letter from the hands of your son David. Be assured that
he, of any of your children, will always meet with a cordial wel
come from, dear sir, Your affectionate friend, John Jay.
Mr. Van Schaack was requested to draw up some sentiments for
the anniversary meeting in May, 1826, of the Alumni of Columbia
College — his alma mater. He prepared the following, which
were adopted as regular toasts, on the occasion, referred to :
1. Our Alma Mater.
Boctrina sed vim promovet insitam,
Rectique cultus pectora roborant.
2. The Patrons and Promoters of Learning.
Sui memores alios fecere merendo.
3. Our deceased Class-mates.
Nee meminisse pigebit 
Sunt lachrymce rerum, et mentem mortalia tangunt.
4. The Under Graduate.
Qui studet optatam cursu contingere metam
Multa tulit,fecitque puer.
5. Our sister Colleges in the United States.
 Fades non omnibus una,
Nee diversa tamen, qualem decet esse sororum."
At this meeting of the Alumni, the following toast was drank,
which deserves to be mentioned for its appropriateness and classic
beauty. " Peter Van Schaack. Admired for his knowledge of the law,
and for his classical attainments, and beloved for the virtues which
adorn our nature. Quisjure peritior, quis virtute prcestantior V*
* It was placed among the regular toasts, but was written by Col. Troup,
who, as chairman, having toasted the orator of the day, could not properly
propose a second volunteer.

454 THE LIFE of
At the annual commencement in this year, the Faculty of Co
lumbia College conferred the degree of Doctor of Laws upon Peter
Van Schaack, Samuel Jones, and De Witt Clinton.
TO FREDERICK DE PEYSTER, JUN.
Kinderhook, 1th August, 1826.
My dear Sir :
If my grandson has been fortunate enough "to see you and de
liver my message, you will be convinced of the coincidence of your
feelings and mine, on the subject of the long interruption of our
correspondence. We will not criminate or recriminate, but start
de novo. I have -received your letter of the 2d instant, and find in it
that attention to every thing that concerns me, which you have
shown upon all occasions.
I am not insensible to the honor done me by the Faculty of
Columbia College — my venerated Alma Mater — nor to being
toasted by Mr. Verplank after my two old esteemed friends Mr.
Jay and Mr. Benson. I have said that I was not insensible to
those honors, but the principal source of my gratification is the
pleasure which I know my friends will feel on this occasion, unex
pected, unlooked for, and I may say undesired by me.
I am extremely happy to hear that Mr. Jay is in his usual
state of health, I presume gradually declining, like his two old
friends, to that country from whose bourne no traveller returns. I
am in good health, but do^iot want that memento mori which Philip
of Macedon imposed upon a monitor to repeat to him. I have the
monitor within.
When you call yourself my " affectionate pupil," you touch a
very tender string of my heart. It is now more than seven years
since you ceased to be so in fact, but your reminiscence, at this dis
tant period, does honor to your heart, while it affords pleasure to
mine. Yours most sincerely, P. V. Schaack.
The last fifteen years of Mr. Van Schaack's life, were spent in
great retirement, in the bosom of his family, at his seat in Kinder
hook. With the exception of a visit to New- York in 1815, and
the one to Bedford before alluded to5/he made no journey to any

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 455
great distance, and he rarely left his native village, during the last
mentioned period. This long and unobtrusive retirement led many
to suppose that he was no longer living. But, although as to the
active and noisy scenes of life he lived thus secluded from the world,
it was not an " unprofitable solitude." His mind was in active
employ, and its stores of philosophic wisdom, and classic and pro
fessional learning, were called into daily and almost constant exer
cise, in imparting instruction to his own children, or to his law and
literary students. And the " round table" with its pile of Latin
books, (among which his favorite Virgil was always one,) was at
hand, at all hours of the day, and the leaves of its precious bur
dens bore ample testimony to their constant use. No classical
books (and there were many and a great variety in his study) were
suffered there to contract mould ; nor from January to December,
during a period of nearly half a century, could dust scarcely ever
find an opportunity for reposing upon the oft-turned pages of Cicero,
Ovid, Juvenal, Horace and Virgil.
His valuable letters written from England to his son, are but
illustrations of his ordinary conversations with his literary students,
chequered as most of them were with the richest allusions and quo
tations. His conversations with his law students, abounded with
similar quotations, and with others adapted to that science, and
such as were calculated to inspire the student with elevated ideas
of his profession. What in another would have been considered
pedantry, in him was nothing else than the natural flow of a mind
chastened by a refined taste, and deeply imbued with the beauties
of literature, and abundantly stored with the profound maxims
and principles of that noble science, which he had made his pro
fession. Mr. Van Schaack was highly complimented, when in England,
upon the correctness and elegance with which he spoke the En
glish language. Indeed the remark is hazarded, that few speak
the language more correctly than well educated American gentle
men of Dutch descent. His precision in the use of language, and
his frequent corrections of the inaccuracies of others, subjected
him to the imputation of hypercriticism. But an attentive mind
would readily discover that there was use in it, however trivial or
unimportant it might, at the moment, appear to have been. Bad

456 THE LIFE OF
habits in matters of consequence, frequently arise from early care
lessness in matters of less moment. A great share of litigation
arises from the careless use or transposition of words ; and a large
body of the decisions of our courts consists in giving construction
to terms and expressions loosely used or carelessly applied in stat
utes, or written instruments. Repetition, or the use of superflu
ous words, was very grating to his ear. Should the question be
asked, "When are you going to Albany1?" it would offend his
nice ear to receive for answer, " I am going to Albany next week,"
when the last two words were all that was necessary to give a
complete answer to the question. Such an answer unnecessarily
repeating the question, he seemed to consider disrespectful. He
liked plain yes and no, when nothing more was required to re
spond to the proposition advanced.
No opportunity was left unimproved by him for imparting in
struction, and he was accustomed to say that " the only avarice he
could bear the thought of, was the avarice of time." His daily well
ordered avocations attested the value which he set upon that price
less gem. To see him seated in his study, surrounded by his pupils, and
imparting to them from the rich stores of his knowledge, one was
reminded of the lines of his favorite Pope —
" Though blind, a boldness in his looks appears ;
In years he seem'd, but not impaired by years."
The cultivation of mind, in the humblest sphere around him,
was not neglected, and his little black attendant came in, in turn,
for his share of instruction. If Frank was too young, or not a
proper subject for learning Latin, (though it is doubtful whether
his color would have excused him had he been a little older,)
yet he could learn to spell door when he opened it, or the name
of any other object which was called into use at the moment.
He had a happy faculty of turning every thing to good account
in the way of admonition or instruction. Occasions, situations and
occurrences of the most familiar kind, and which with ordinary
minds would pass unheeded, were improved by him to a useful
purpose, by calling up some apt quotation, or valuable sentiment ;
and by his fondness for instruction, they were made to promote
the important object of advancing the young student in virtue,
knowledge, or classical learning.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 457
He retained his relish for the Latin language until his dying
day ; and a dish of Latin before breakfast was a very common in
dulgence for some time after he had reached threescore and ten.
Mr. Van Schaack was extremely partial to the writers of the Au
gustan age ; — of these Virgil was his favorite. He could repeat many
of the Eclogues, and a great portion of the iEneid, and he had the
minutest parts of the story at his tongue's. end. So also he could
recite large portions of the odes and epistles of Horace, and of the
orations of Cicero, in the original. Of the Greek his knowledge
was limited.
He was a great admirer of the old English poets and prose writers,
and more especially of Milton, Shakspeare, and Pope, (including
his translations,) and the writers for the Spectator ; and he gener
ally called for some of these works when he desired miscella
neous reading. But it was difficult to interest him in most of
the writers of modern times. Even the works of Scott and
Byron could not enlist his feelings ; in fact, he never read but two
novels in his life, and those were Clarissa Harlow and Sir Charles
Grandison. He had an indifferent opinion of that kind of reading.
The study of the Scriptures received much of his attention. He was
particularly fond of the Psalms, and could repeat very many of them.
The writings and character of St. Paul excited his admiration.
From none of his classical students did he require or receive
any compensation for the, large portion of time and care bestowed
in their instruction, and not a few poor young men could testify to his
solicitude . for their mental improvement. His soul seemed to be
wrapped up in the intellectual cultivation of the rising generation,
and he found his highest reward in the attention and progress of
his pupils. He was emphatically the friend of youth, and their
welfare found in him a fixed and unalterable devotion. Could a
collection now be made of those lessons of wisdom which have
fallen from his lips, while imparting instruction to his numerous
pupils, during a long and industrious life of upwards of fourscore
years, it would form a rich legacy to the rising generation. But,
alas for the waywardness, the volatility and the inattention of
youth ! the o-reater part of those invaluable instructions are now
lost to mankind, and that loss is a subject of reproach to no one
more than to the writer of this sketch. 58

458 THE LIFE OF
Although living thus retired, he was not unmindful of his dis
tant friends, or of his immediate neighbors ; — no suitable occasion
for attending to the former was lost, and he was unremitting in
those little civilities and kindnesses, which his situation enabled
him to bestow upon the latter. For the punctilious discharge of
those civilities he was eminently characterized, and it formed a
pleasing trait in his character ; and as he was ever mindful, in this
respect, of his duty to others, so also the reciprocation of these little
attentions was received and cherished, in the gratitude of his heart.
On the approach of a New Year's day, it was habitual with
Mr. Van Schaack to recur to his old friends, and the absent mem
bers of his family, with the compliments of the season. With him
this was not an occasion for unmeaning ceremony, but for the expres
sion of friendship sincerely entertained. The reader will perhaps
anticipate which of those old friends he would be least likely to
pass by, in the annual interchange of a " Happy New Year."
TO JOHN JAY.
Kinderhook, 21th Becember, 1826.
My dear Sir :
Let me break in upon your retirement with the wish of a hap
py new year, and that it may be attended with every blessing which
life, transitory as it is, can bestow ; and in this wish I comprehend
every branch of your family.
The return of this season habitually brings the recollection of
days long since past, of youthful attachments and more mature
connections dissolved, as well as of the few which remain. You have
passed fourscore, and I am but a few months from it. Benson is
between us, and I shall soon be followed by Harrison, Watts and
Rutgers. These I believe are all that survive of our college cotem-
poraries. Nos turba sumus !
I heard last May that apprehensions were entertained by your
friends, that you were threatened with a new complaint. Benson,
however, soon after informed me, that these apprehensions were
dissipated, and since that I have heard that you are in your usual
state of health, which I hope may long continue. I enjoy perfect
bodily health, and freedom from pain. I have, however, been af
fected with a deterioration of my hearing, but my family think

peter van schaack. 459
that it has, within a few weeks, materially mitigated. In this sit
uation, mixed of comforts and of privations, I will, I trust, submis
sively " wait the great teacher Death and God adore."
With an affectionate remembrance to all under your roof, Mrs.
Banyar, Miss Nancy, and your son William and his family, in
which my children unite, I am, my dear sir,
Your sincere and obliged friend,
Peter Van Schaack.
TO PETER VAN SCHAACK.
Bedford, 23d January, 1827.
Dear Sir :
I have received your friendly letter of the 27th ult. It gives me
pleasure to reflect that our mutual esteem and regard have, from
an early period, been constantly productive of cordiality and "rati
fication. A kind Providence has extended our lives to the commence
ment of another year. Very few of our early associates remain
with us. Our abode here is merely pro hac vice, and our departure
is then to place us in a state of eternal good or evil. That good can
only be obtained by means of our merciful Redeemer, who was
pleased to declare, " without me ye can do nothing."
Although I have long been in a state of debility, yet it was
lately so increased by an additional complaint, as caused me to de
lay preparing a few lines to you more seasonably.
That you and your family may always be blessed with benefi
cial prosperity, be assured, is the wish of my children, and also
Of your affectionate friend, John Jay.
The foregoing letter to Mr. Van Schaack, is the last letter of
friendship written by Mr. Jay, which his biographer has given to
the public, in the interesting work which commemorates the life
and character of that illustrious patriot. In connection with the
one to which it is an answer, it forms also an appropriate con
clusion to the miscellaneous correspondence of Peter Van Schaack.
It is fit and proper, that the picture of so rare an instance of ele-

460 THE LIFE OF
vated and disinterested friendship, should not be marred in its keep
ing, and that its subjects having been " lovely and pleasant in their
lives," should not be " divided in death," or even in the works by
which the purity of their characters is commemorated.
Mr. Jay departed this life, on the 17th day of May, 1829. The
following epitaph was composed by Mr. Van Schaack for his old
friend : MEMORIAE SACRUM,
JOHANNIS JAY, Armigeri;
qui obiit "
17 Mayi, Anno Domini,
1829.
Si monumentum quceras —
Tunsi pectora, hicjacet respondent Virtutis et Patriae amantes.
heu pietas ! heu prisca fides !
And here it becomes us to take leave of another old friend,
whose name should not be forgotten in this connection.
FROM EGBERT BENSON.
Jamaica, August, 25th, 1829.
Dear Sir :
I have received the line from you. The visit of David since, —
and for the attention I feel myself truly obliged to him, — has al
most saved me from the necessity of an answer. He can report to
you all about me.
You have received A. B. and C. D., and by this time you will
have received A. B. in conclusion.*
I received a very cordial letter from William Jay on the occa
sion of the death of his father. In my answer, the following Scrip
tural passage served for my concio funebris. " The season was
come, in which the shock of corn should come in."
I am free from disease and pain ; still strength and sight fail
me perceptibly. A gracious Providence has made the failing
gradual. Day by day a respite ; day by day a warning.
Yours sincerelv,
Peter Van Schaack, Esq. E. B.
* These were papers Judge B. was writing for the N. Y. American. He
was then upwards of SO.

peter van schaack. 461
Mr. Van Schaack survived his friend Mr. Jay three years.
But the residue of his life was one of the same uniform retirement,
and its avocations have been so fully detailed in the preceding
pages, as to require no further comment at the author's hands.* In
the occupations which have been mentioned, and in the ample re
sources of his mind, he found constant promotives of that cheer
fulness, which, although he continued totally blind, rarely deserted
him. " Butt it was in the tenderness and fidelity of his children, that he
found the most certain and gratifying indemnity for the evils he
would otherwise have suffered. Not to speak of other members of
the family, he enjoyed the constant, affectionate attendance- of
daughters, whose highest wishes were centered in his happiness.
The declining years of Mr. Van Schaack were smoothed and
blessed, and his life perhaps protracted to its unusual length, by
this faithful performance of the duties of filial piety. Until about
six weeks previous to his decease, his bodily health was uncom
monly good for a person of his advanced age, and his mind was
equally vigorous. He was then seized with a paralytic affection,
from which he never recovered, his health gradually declinino-
until his death. His mental faculties, however, remained compar
atively unimpaired to the last, and he displayed a great degree of
patience, and an entire submission to the will of his Creator. In the
purity of his life, and in his calm composure and resignation in the
hour of death, his numerous family and connections have an abun
dant source of consolation and pleasing reflection."
He departed this life on the 27th day of September, 1832, and
his body was interred in the village church-yard, at Kinderhook,
there to remain until the sea and the earth shall give up their
dead !
In his character, Peter Van Schaack united the energy and
decision of his father, with the tenderness and refined sensibility of
his mother. In personal appearance, also, he bore a marked re-
* The present work might have been greatly enlarged by additional se
lections from Mr. Van Schaack's later correspondences, as well as by extend
ing those of an early date, but it was inconsistent with the author's determi
nation to confine it to a single volome.
t Extract from Mr. Butler's biographical sketch before referred to.

462 the life of
semblance to the former, rendered more imposing, however, by the
increased respect inspired by a consciousness of" the mind within,"
and which in the son had been improved by the advantages of a
thorough education, by a highly cultivated taste, and by the polish
and refinements acquired by foreign travel and a city life, as well
as by an extensive and intimate acquaintance with the learned '^and
distinguished men of his day.
"Nature had conferred upon him a form and countenance which
corresponded in strength and dignity, to the measure of his intel
lect. Even after death his features retained the noble impress of
his superior endowments, and might almost have been taken for
some marbled monument of ancient genius, to which they bore a
peculiar and most interesting resemblance."* His manners were
those of a gentleman of the old school, modest, dignified and ele
gant, and such as to constitute the perfect gentleman.
Having, in the course of these pages, laid before the reader
the private and confidential correspondences of Mr. Van Schaack,
fully developing the various traits in his character, together with
his private meditations authenticating his sentiments under his own
hand, a summary of that character would seem to be supererogatory.
His idiosyncrasy has here been " gradually developed," and the
reader has been furnished with ample and well-authenticated facts
and materials from which to draw his own inferences, and which
facts are of so striking and consistent a nature, as scarcely to admit
of a varying picture in any hands, whether the limner be a stran
ger or friend. They exhibit his character in the amiable light of a
man endued with philanthropy, integrity, charity, benevolence,
fortitude, sincerity and candor; as a citizen, anxious to render
himself useful, without regard to the enticements of ambition ; and,
as a Christian, receiving with perfect submission to the divine
will the severest dispensations of Heaven, while his heart over
flowed with gratitude for the humblest mercies imparted from the
same adorable source.
His precepts as a philosopher, w ere at once sound and practical ;
and as a jurist, he was learned, logical, discriminating and pro
found. As a scholar, we have the most pleasing evidence of his refined
* Mr. Butler.

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 463
taste and cultivated mind, in his. letters written from England to his
son. While they abound in elevated sentiments, and are rated by a
high standard of morality ; while they exhibit the sterling qualities
of frankness, good sense, a pure taste and gentlemanly breeding ;
and while they are marked as well for the mind which they exhibit
as -for the instruction which they convey; — these letters are also
distinguished for the purity, dignity and perspicuity of their style,
' for the gracefulness and elegance of their diction, and for classical
scholarship, being replete with the rarest allusions culled from.
Roman and English authors, and many of which are as much to be
admired for the aptitude of their application, as for their intrinsic
beauty. Although written more than half a century since, they
have lost none of their interest or originality ; — and they constitute
a mirror, which beautifully reflects the polished and disciplined mind
of the author, and through them, " though dead, he yet speaks."
If this be the language of eulogy rather than fact, the means
of correction are placed within the reader's reach.
To say that Peter Van Schaack had no faults, would be to
place him without the pale of human infirmity : but if he had any
vices their existence is unknown to the author.
His resignation was abundantly exhibited by his " unabated
cheerfulness," for a long term of years, under the severest person
al privations, which had been preceded by the overthrow and dis
appointment of his leading views and prospects in life ; and to this
Christian grace, he added the wisdom and fortitude of philosophy,
and exemplified the motto he had chosen — superanda fortuna
ferendo. Brought up in the school of affliction, he knew how to appre
ciate the sufferings of others ; and that admirable sentiment of
Terrence — homo sum nil humani a me alienumputo — was one of his
favorite quotations, and found a ready response in his bosom.
Although not called to an official station in the republic, he
" did the state some service," in the more retired and unostentatious,
but not less responsible, capacity of an instructer of her youth, and of
fitting them for the future discharge of useful and responsible sta
tions in the republic. If the remark of a modern philosopher be
correct, that " to educate a child perfectly requires profounder
thought, greater wisdom than to govern a state," why is not he

464 THE LIFE of
entitled to his country's gratitude, who has successfully devoted his
talents, and so great a portion of his life, to so difficult a task 1
His qualifications in this respect were unsurpassed, if not unrivalled ;
and they entitle him to the rank and name of the modern Quin-
tilian. Banished under circumstances of peculiar hardships, and for no
crime,— "-for it was his only offence that in the conscientious -exer
cise of the right of opinion, he did not think his allegiance to the
parent state was dissolved — yet, (as was said of Thucydides in
reference to his ostracism,) " he was so nobly complexioned," that
on his return to his native state," no murmur or complaint escaped
him upon account of his severe, undeserved treatment from his
country ;" and he was ready to exert his best energies in her ser
vice, and the intellectual acquisitions of that leisure which his exile
had created, were freely poured into the lap of her, who had pre
scribed to him " the bitter bread of banishment."
However exposed to a contrary construction, in all his politi
cal conduct, Peter Van Schaack was governed by a love of his
country, and by a sincere desire to promote its prosperity and wel
fare. He was opposed to taking up arms at the commencement of
the Revolution, from a sincere conviction that a connection with
Britain was essential to the prosperity of the colonies, and that a
civil war would only involve them in anarchy and ruin. Although
he condemned the measures of ministers, yet his judgment and his
charity led him to the conclusion that " they did not manifest a
system of slavery, but might fairly be imputed to human frailty and
the difficulty of the subject." But when, upon being transferred
to London, he witnessed the corruption of the government, and be
came satisfied of the evil designs of the British cabinet, he hesitated
not to make known his change of sentiment, though exposed to
the charge of political apostasy ; and he panted for peace, desiring
that an end might be put to the horrors of civil war, by the
unconditional acknowledgment of his country's independence.
When peace was proclaimed, and independence acknowledged, he
rejoiced in his heart ; and, on the establishment of the New Govern
ment, his bosom swelled with the patriotic sentiment — esto per-
petua !
Anxious to promote the prosperity of the rising States, he im-

PETER VAN SCHAACK. 465
proved the advantages afforded by his situation in a foreign land, to
encourage emigration ; and he was ever ready to vindicate the abi
lities of his countrymen against the overbearing disparagement of
foreign insolence. In view of the good which his country was
likely to derive from the successful issue of the Revolution, we find
him " rejoicing in restraints" which he had experienced in his own
person, " and which he had once deemed a grievance," and;we see
his solicitude, " without any retrospect to the past," for the estab
lishment of the new Republics on a firm and durable basis, " by
laying their corner-stones in justice, equity, and a spirit of concilia
tion :" — and on returning to his native country, and resuming his
citizenship, we find him devoting his talents and energies to her ser
vice, in the education of her youth, — giving to the new order of
things a cordial and liberal support, and becoming a worthy, use
ful, and inoffensive citizen.

\ \

59

APPENDIX.

Mr. Borke's letter, respecting the Hearing at the Cockpit upon the
petition for the removal of Governor Hutchinson.
On Saturday last the Lords of the Council took into consideration the
petition of the colony of Massachusetts Bay, for the removal of their
Governor and Deputy Governor. The counsel for the petition were Mr.
D. and Mr. Lee ; for the Governor, Mr. Weddeburn.*
The counsel for the province contended that no cause was instituted ;
that they did not think advocates necessary; nor were Ihey demanded
on the part of the colony. That the petition of the colony was not in the
nature of accusation, but of advice and request. That it was an address
to the King's wisdom, not an application for strict criminal justice. That
when referred to the Council, it was a matter for political prudence, not
for judicial determination. Therefore, as such, the matter rested wholly
in their Lordships' opinion of the propriety or impropriety of continuing
persons in authority, who are represented by legal bodies, competent to
such representation, as having (whether on sufficient or insufficient
grounds) entirely forfeited the confidence of the assemblies with whom
they were to act, and of that people whom they were to govern. That
the resolutions on which that representation is founded lay before their
Lordships, together with the letters from whence those resolutions arose.
That these were the materials, and. the only materials on which the pru
dence of the Council was to operate; they were fully sufficient as
grounds for that prudential consideration, however inadequate they
might prove for the support of a criminal charge; a charge they were
by no means authorized to make, nor furnished with legal evidence to
support. If their Lordships should think that these actionsf appeared to the
colony representative to be faulty, ought in other places to appear mer
itorious, the petition has not desired that the parties should be punished
as criminals for these actions of supposed merit. It does not even desire
* Afterwards Lord Loughborough.'- »
t A sentence or part of a sentence has here evidently been omitted in
copying. .;^.

468 appendix.
that they may not be rewarded. It only humbly requests that these gen
tlemen might be removed to places where such merits are better under
stood, and where such rewards might be more approved.
The ground was taken with skill. It was attacked, too, with no small
ability. Mr. Weddeburn stated the determination on this petition, as
what must decide whether the King should ever be faithfully or reso
lutely served in any part of his dominions. He considered the petition
as a criminal accusation, and expatiated largely on the insufficiency of
the matter charged, as well as the invalidity of the evidence. He exten
uated the supposed offence in the contents of the letters. He asserted
that they were private letters, written to a private person, and (in the
usual freedom and confidence of such intercourse) starting sentiments,
and running into discussions wholly remote from any view to practice, as
a mere exercise of fancy, like the politics of Utopia or Oceana.
He dwelt on the merits of the Governor, in relation to his province
and to government, and the confidence which it was admitted he
had long possessed, which from his constant affection to his country
men he still merited, and which he had by no means generally forfeited.
That this confidence, so justly acquired, was affected, partially and for a
time, by the management of a faction that had got into momentary
power. He expatiated on the disorders which had prevailed in town
meetings ; and on the temperate and manly conduct of the Governor, in
the midst of such trials. He ended by falling severely upon the means
of obtaining and communicating these obnoxious papers, and of the evil
effects that such proceedings (which he contended could not possibly be
fair ones) had upon the public peace, and the fatal ones they were very
near producing to the quiet, fame and lives of individuals.
The Council was the fullest I have ever known. It did not seem ab
solutely necessary, from the nature of the case, that there should be any
public trial whatsoever. But it was obviously intended to give all pos
sible weight and solemnity to the decision. The petition was rejected.*

B.
Mr. Cruger's speech on Mr. Fox's motion, for '¦ an inquiry into the
causes of the ill success of his Majesty's arms in North America."
Mr. Speaker:
The honorable gentleman who opened this debate, has spoken so
fully and eloquently to every part of the question, that any thing farther
in support of this motion may appear unnecessary. But, sir, when a
subject of so much importance is before the House, it behooves every man
* See a full account of this subject in Sparks' Life and Writings of Frank
lin. Vol. I. pp. 356—370 ; IV. 405—455.

appendix. 469
to lay aside the reserve of diffidence, and express his sentiments with
freedom and candor.
If there is any point in which the different interests of this House
should unite, it must be in a conviction of the necessity and expediency
of inquiring into the causes of the present alarming state of public affairs.
By discovering what has proved ruinous in the past, we may learn at
least to avoid the same pernicious steps for the future. If their mea
sures had been conducted with justice and prudence, 'tis a duty which
administration owe to their characters, to disarm, by a free examination,
that censure on their conduct which may possibly arise from ignorance.
But if they love darkness rather than light, " because their deeds are
evil,:' it becomes the guardians of the nation to drag their miscarriages
into open day, and expose them, with all their deformities, to public in
vestigation. If, Mr. Speaker, such an inquiry was ever necessary, the present
time demands it. If we look to the past, one uniform train of disappoint
ments and misfortunes crowd the view; if to the future, a gloomy pros
pect of increasing miseries, from a continuance of the same left-handed
policy and ill-projected measures.
We are involved, sir, in a war, in which success itself would be ru
inous. The colonies, as if animated with one soul, are determined to
perish or be free. "We are told they must be subdued. We shall soon
he called upon to make new exertions of force. Every thing wears the
face of hostile preparations ; and, as if disappointment could create con
fidence, we are urged to pursue the same fatal measures by arguments
drawn from their miscarriage. " Nothing ('lis now said) will satisfy
America but independence ; that the people of that country have almost
unanimously taken up arms ; they act not only on the defensive, but
have endeavored to deprive you of all Canada ; an inquiry (they say)
would produce a fatal procrastination ; the urgency and necessity of
the case demand and justify immediate vigor and execution. These
must be pursued or the government of the colonies surrendered to an
ambiguous Congress.''
Such, sir, are the reasons advanced to preclude inquiry, and to pro
cure a hasty acquiescence in schemes of policy, on which the fate of the
empire so materially depends. By such arguments as these our jeal
ousy is excited and our resentment inflamed against a people, who, after
the most earnest endeavors to preserve their liberties from invasion by
petition and remonstrance ; after having repeatedly submitted their com
plaints (without effect) to the justice of Parliament, and laid them hum
bly at the foot of the throne; after beholding the most formidable pre
parations to divest them of their rights by the sword ; after finding hostil
ities already commenced and fresh violences threatened, have taken up
arms in their own defence, and endeavored to repel destructive force by
force.

470 appendix.
The complexion and character, sir, of their present opposition
(whether unjust or honorable) rests not on their present measures, but
arises from, and must be weighed by, the causes which have made such
a conduct and such measures necessary. A free and impartial inquiry,
therefore, into the leading and primary causes, is indispensably necessary
to a just decision of the case. If their claims of exemption from Parlia
mentary taxation are founded in equity and the principles of the consti
tution ; if they have been driven by a wanton, cruel, and impolitic attack
on their privileges, to their present desperate defence ; then, sir, the
whole guilt and censure is chargeable on those, and those alone,
whose ambition and ill-directed measures have forced them to those ex
tremities. Thus, also, if a form of government is introduced into Canada,
(breathing little of the spirit of English liberty,) and intending to link
the Canadians to the chain of ministerial influence ; if they scrupled not
to make a religion, which has so often deluged Europe with blood, an
engine of their despotism to crush the Protestant colonies ; if every arti
fice was used to seduce and employ a servile, bigoted people, to subvert
the liberties of America, can we wonder, sir, can we complain if the col
onists wisely diverted the storm, and secured a country to their own alli
ance, the strength and arms of which were avowedly to be directed to
their destruction ?
When what was dearer to them than their lives — their liberties were
at stake ; when, Mr. Speaker, their opposition to government reached no
higher than petition and resolves, then they were stigmatized with want
of courage. Every method was taken to irritate them. Insults on their
character as a people were added to encroachments on their rights as
citizens. The pencil of confident oppression described them as a herd of
pusillanimous wretches, whom the appearance of martial array would
terrify into submission. How unjust, how impolitic to reduce men to
the miserable alternative of being branded with the epithet of cowards,
or of taking up arms to vindicate their injured honor and liberties; first
to compel them to resistance, and then derive arguments of their guilt
from their vigor, courage, and success. How contemptible the cause
which pleads the misfortunes it has occasioned as reasons for its support !
The arguments of administration, stripped of their false colorings, with
all humility, I conceive to be these : " We have plunged Great Britain
into a most expensive and ruinous contest with her colonies ; we have
opened the door for endless animosities, by reviving disputed questions
and claims which shake the foundation of the empire. The measures we
have pursued have increased the storm and multiplied the common mis
fortunes. We have joined all America in a firm league against you.
Your trade has been impaired ; your ships insulted and taken. We have
lost for you every place of strength or importance in the Colonies ; and
have left you an army broken by sickness, fatigue, and want, and now
perishing under all the mortifications, ignominy, and miseries of an in-

APPENDIX. 471
glorious imprisonment." These, say they, " are our pleas for support ;
these are the recommendations of our councils. We lay before you the mis
carriages and evils which our past measures have produced, to persuade
you to place new confidence in our wisdom, and to give more liberal aid
to our judicious schemes for the future."
These, however, sir, are not the only blushing honors which deck the
temples of administration. They have lately displayed the happy art of
drawing arguments in their favor, from the misfortunes of their friends,
as well as from the success of their enemies, and prove that they are as
incapable of gratitude as of justice. When gentlemen in this House (in
fluenced by motives of humanity) recommended an exception of the
friends of government in the Colonies from the rigors of the late prohib
itory bill, administration suddenly changed its voice ; and they who just
before had boasted that a majority of the Americans were friendly to
their cause, and only waited an opportunity to declare it with safety, now
pronounced, that no distinction could be made, for that they had preserved
at best " a shameful neutrality," and deserved to be subject to the com
mon calamity of their country. This, sir, was the liberal reward bestowed
on men who espoused their cause from principle, and maintained it
undaunted and unsupported, through obloquy, and the most imminent
danger to their fortunes, families and lives.
I will not at present trespass on the patience of the House by entering
into particulars ; but I cannot forbear saying, the friends of peace and
good order in the province of New- York, did not deserve to be reproached
with " a shameful neutrality ;" they stood forth and opposed, as long as
they were able, the increasing current of tumult and disorder, and ex
posed themselves, by their endeavors to preserve their colonial constitu
tion, to the resentment and vengeance of their incensed neighbors. In
a dutiful manner they submitted their grievances to the clemency of this
House, and the justice of their sovereign. I need not insist on the con
sequence. I shall not dwell on the contempt with which their zealous advances
to a reconciliation were rejected. But this I must desire all those who
declaim on their ignominious neutrality to remember, that administration
not only neglected to aid them with a force sufficient to maintain their
opposition against the zealots in their own province, and the united pow
ers of the adjacent colonies, but withdrew to Boston the few troops under
the command of Gen. Haldiman, which might have assisted in preserving
order, and the freedom and impartiality of public proceedings. By such
means the colony was laid open to incursions. Many were obliged to
secure their persons from danger, by forsaking their friends and country,
and leaving their property at the discretion of their enemies, whilst a
greater number waited with silent patience, under every affliction, for the
vigorous protection of Great Britain.
Their zealous and firm adherence to their principles, crown them

472 APPENDIX.
with honor. That they have not been successful ; that they were borne
down with the superior force of their opponents ; that they are left to
share in the common distress and common punishments of their unfortunate
countrymen, beams no lustre, however, on the characters of those by
whom they were neglected, betrayed, and sacrificed.
By this impolicy (to call it by no harsher name) the command and
management of the key and mainspring of America, has been lost to this
country ; a speedy and effectual security of which, might have saved us
from the present gloomy prospect of intestine carnage and accumulating
misery. Surely, sir, the representative body of the nation are bound in
duty to their constituents, to examine the reasons of such neglect and
misconduct; and they in particular who are the asserters of parliamentary
supremacy, are concerned to inquire why so effectual a method of weak
ening the opposition in America, and supporting their own adherents, has
been totally omitted.
But, sir, there is no necessity of dwelling on this circumstance, to
prove the obligations this country is under to ministers. Disappoint
ment and disgrace have marked all their measures ; and, as if miracles
had been wrought to strike conviction on this House, they have not once
even blundered into success. It may, therefore, reasonably be hoped,
that before we blindly follow any farther, we may not only contemplate
our present situation, and the ground we have already passed, but pay
particular attention to that which lies before us.
Admitting (for the present) however, sir, that a force sufficient to
subdue them can be sent out; admitting that this country will patiently
bear the enormous weight of accumulated taxes, which so distant and
unequal a war will require ; admitting that foreign powers (the natural
enemies of Britain) will with composure and self-denial neglect so fav
orable an opportunity of distressing their rivals ; admitting that your
fleets, unopposed, level with the ground those cities which rose by your
protection, were the pillars of your commerce, and your nation's boast ;
admitting that foreign mercenaries spread desolation, that thousands fall
before them, and that humbled under the combined woes of poverty,
anarchy, want, and defeat, the exhausted colonies fall suppliant at the
feet of your conquerors ; admitting all this will be the case, which can
not well be expected from the past, here necessarily follows a most mo
mentous question : What are the solid advantages which Great Britain
is to receive in exchange for the blessings of peace and a lucrative com
merce ; — for the affections, for the prosperity, for the lives of so many
of its useful subjects sacrificed?
Will the bare acknowledgment of a right in Parliament to tax them
compensate for the millions expended, the danger incurred, the miseries
entailed, the destruction of human happiness and life that must ensue
from a war with our colonies, united as they are in one common cause,
and fired to desperate enthusiasm by apprehensions of impending slave-

APPENDIX. 473
ry 1 Or can we be -so absurd as to imagine concessions extorted in a
time of danger and urgent misery, will form a bond of lasting union 1
Impoverished and undone by their exertions and the calamities of war,
instead of being able to repay the expenses of this country, or supply a
revenue, they will stand in need of your earliest assistance to revive de
pressed and almost extinguished commerce, as well as to renew and
uphold their necessary civil establishments.
I am well aware, sir, that it is said we must maintain the dignity of
Parliament. Let me ask, what dignity is that which will not descend
to make millions happy, which will sacrifice the treasures and best blood
of the nation to extort submissions — fruitless submissions, that will be dis
avowed and disregarded the moment the procuring oppressive force is
removed 1 What dignity is that which, to enforce a disputed mode of
obtaining a revenue, will destroy commerce, spread poverty and desola
tion, and dry up every channel, every source from which revenue or any
real substantial benefit can be expected 1
Is it not high time then, Mr. Speaker, to examine the full extent of
our danger, to pause and mark the paths which have deceived us, and
the wretched, bewildered guides who have led us into our present diffi
culties 1 Let us find the destroying angel, and stop his course, while we
have yet any thing valuable to preserve. The breach is not yet irre
parable ; and permit me with all deference to say, I have not a doubt,
but that liberal and explicit terms of reconciliation, with a full and firm
security against an oppressive exercise of parliamentary taxation, if held
out to the colonies before the war takes a wider and more destructive
course, will lead instantly to a settlement, and recall the former years of
peace, when the affections and interests of Great Britain and America *
were one.
But, sir, if, on the contrary, we are to plunge deeper in this sea of
blood; if we are to sacrifice the means and materials of revenue for idle
distinctions about modes of raising it ; if the laurels we can gain, and
the dignity of Parliament we are to establish, can be purchased only by
the miseries of fellow subjects, whose losses are our own ; if the event is
precarious, the cause alien to the spirit and humanity of Englishmen ; if
the injury is certain, and the object of success unsubstantial and insecure,
how little soever the influence my poor opinion may have on this House, I
shall free my conscience by having explicitly condemned all such un
profitable, inadequate, injudicious measures, and by giving my hearty
concurrence to the motion.

The unjust but determined purpose of the British Court, to enslave
these free states, obvious through every delusive insinuation to the con-
60

474 APPENDIX.
trary, having placed things in such a situation, that the very existence af
civil liberty now depends on the right execution of military powers, and
the vigorous, decisive conduct of these being impossible to distant, numer
ous and deliberative bodies ; this Congress, having maturely considered
the present crisis, and having perfect reliance on the wisdom, vigor and
uprightness of General Washington, do hereby
Resolve, That General Washington shall be, and he is hereby vested
with full, ample, and complete powers to raise and collect together, in the
most speedy and effectual manner, from any or all of these United States,
sixteen battalions of infantry, in addition to those already voted by Con
gress ; to appoint officers for the said battalions of infantry ; to raise, of
ficer and equip 3000 light-horse ; three regiments of artillery ; and a
corps of engineers, and to establish their pay ; to apply to any of the
states for such aid of the militia as he shall judge necessary ; to form
such magazines of provisions, and in such places, as he shall think proper ;
to displace and appoint all officers under the rank of brigadier general,
and to fill up all vacancies in every other department in the American
army ; to take, wherever he may be, whatever he may want for the use
of the army, if the inhabitants will not sell it, allowing a reasonable price
for the same ; to arrest and confine persons who refuse to take the con
tinental currency, or are otherwise disaffected to the American cause ;
and return to the states of which they are citizens, their names, and the
nature of their offences, together with the witnesses to prove them.
That the foregoing powers be vested in Gen. Washington, for and dur
ing the term of six months from the date hereof, unless sooner deter
mined by Congress.

D.
Letter from the Convention of New- York to Isaac Paris, Esquire,
chairman of the committee of Tryon county, upon the subject of admin
istering a general oath of allegiance.* Kingston, April l§th, 1777.
Sir: The Convention have directed me, in answer to your letter of the 2d
instant, to inform you, that they acknowledge with pleasure the zeal and
attention to the public welfare manifested in most of your public pro
ceedings. They are, however, very doubtful about the propriety of ad
ministering a general oath of allegiance, especially while the want of a
regular government gives people a plausible pretence to refuse it. In
those few counties in which it has been tried, it has been found
productive of much evil, and laid aside, after experience had of its
" Minutes of the Convention.

APPENDIX. 475
inutility. It is sometimes dangerous to probe a wound too deep.
Our unacquaintance with the characters of the people of your county ren
ders it difficult to advise you respecting those you have taken up : we can
only, in general terms, recommend you to keep a watchful eye over such
as you may suspect, and to retain those in custody whom you may deem
dangerous. The nature of their confinement must be submitted to your
prudence. The inclosed resolves contain an answer to other parts of
your letter. I am with respect, sir,
Your most obed't servant.
By order,
Pierre Van Cortlandt, Jr.,
President.

E.
Detail of proceedings in relation to the district of Kinderhook.*
In June, 1774, a committee of two persons was chosen for the district
of Kinderhook, and in May, 1775, another committee, consisting of four,
was chosen to represent the district in County Committee. The former
election was held at Cornelius Vosburgh's, and the second at the church,
as appears by the returns, which was to continue till the 21st December.
A. On the 30th October, the general committee ordered new elec
tions throughout the county. Our district committee gave regular no
tice to the freeholders, to meet at the house of Cornelius Vosburgh to
elect a new committee and to give their votes for deputies. The poll
was held and a number of votes taken for Andrew Witbeck, Barent Van
derpoel, Cornelius Van Schaack, Jun., and Derick Gardinier. At length
votes were challenged and rejected, for not being freeholders, whereupon
one Isaac Goes with a small party left the place of election, and opened a
poll by their own authority, at which, after several days' exertion, they
got a few more votes than those taken by the district committee. Both
polls were returned to the County Committee, who received the one re
turned by the district committee as the regular one. Some time after,
however, the same committee resolved that this matter should be referred
to the new committee, and be resumed by them as the proper judges.
Their judicial decision, you will perceive by the inclosed letter marked
B, and the reasons why our district committee refused to accede to the
compromise, you will collect from their answer annexed to it. All this
time, not a word was said about the place of election, but after the com
mittee took their seats, and had rejected a second proposal for taking in
* The documents marked A, B, C, D, E, referred to in this detail, have
not been found by the author.

476 APPENDIX.
two and two of a side, it was then alleged that the election was not held
at the proper place.
In vain was it urged and proved, that the houses of Cornelius Vos-
burgh and Tobias Van Buren were not above two hundred yards apart,
and that neither of the former elections for Committees and Deputies
had been held at the latter place, and that to impeach the present elec
tion on account of its being held at a supposed wrong place, was to im
peach every thing the district had done in relation to Congresses and
Committees : that although elections for town officers had been for sev-*
eral years held at Tobias Van Buren's, yet, before that time they had
been held at other houses. And that in May, 1775, the people at a town
meeting in consequence of an act of Assembly, voted that their future
elections might be held at anyplace in the town of Kinderhook; notwith
standing all this the committee vacated the election, and took great of
fence at a protest, which one member left in justification of their own, and
the conduct of their predecessors. Then it was that the general commit
tee, being credibly informed by Mr. Goes, that the majority of the old free
holders might be against him, yet, upon the whole, the major part of the
inhabitants were in his favor, ordered, not that tenants having lands of a
certain value, but that every inhabitant should vote. The new election
terminated in a great majority of voters in favor of the old members.
In May, there was another election, which ended without opposition
in favor of Lucas Goes, Lambert Burghardt, Abraham Van VIeck and
Peter Van Schaack, who attended the county convention at their next
sitting. It is proper here to remark, that after the district election, and before
the meeting of the committee, bodies of armed men, from Clavefack and
King's districts, and from Massachusetts Bay, had invaded the district,
and without authority of any committee in this county, had disarmed,
dragooned and ill-treated the inhabitants, of which a regular complaint
was made to the county committee in writing. A sub-committee was by
them appointed to inquire into the facts, who reported that they had been
fully proved on oath before them. Notwithstanding this, no notice was
taken of the report, and no redress given to the persons injured ; and in
stead of passing a censure on the delinquents, the committee left them
in possession of what they had taken, and expelled the district committee
"unheard, unquestioned, and without even the specious formality of a
trial," and that too by an order made expressly for the purpose.
The election, in November, 1775, was ordered to be of the freehold
ers, (this was consonant to the orders of the general Congress in 1774,) —
that in January, 1776, by all the inhabitants. Neither would answer the
purpose of bringing certain persons in. A new engine was now set in
motion, and none were to be chosen, but those whose principles were
known to be friendly to the American cause ; and no elector was to vote
unless he had signed the association previous to that order. See
paper E.

APPENDIX. 477
This paper was preceded, the day before, with a party of fifty men,
who came with an order from the general committee, to take up seven
teen of our inhabitants, among whom were those who have been sup
posed to have most influence, and who were committed to prison, upon a
charge hereafter to be mentioned.
But, though the committee declared that there was a just necessity
for the district's being represented, and though they had fixed the quali-
^fications for the members as well as voters, and though the persons who
were supposed most unfriendly were safely lodged in jail, and though
there was an armed force to intimidate opposition, yet so it happened,
that the election again failed, as the returning officers (not inhabitants of
this district, but appointed by the committee) could not hold their poll,
each having a different opinion from the others respecting the mode of
taking votes, and deciding the qualifications of the candidates and
electors. No return therefore was made, and the district remained un
represented. This was in June, and although the Provincial Congress
had ordered that the sense of the counties should be taken, respecting
the deputies to form a new government, and although the county com
mittee had ordered elections in every other district, yet the freeholders of
Kinderhook, as numerous, wealthy and respectable as any other dis
trict, were excluded from the privilege of voting on this truly momen
tous occasion.
During all this time, however, though the district was deprived
(whether rightfully or arbitrarily must be submitted) of the privilege of
representation; they were not however forgotten when any burthens
were Mttposed, their quotas of drafts being strictly required, and faith
fully furnished, with a temper and forbearance which encouraged new
insults. The seventeen persons who were apprehended upon the mandate
before mentioned, were kept imprisoned for seventeen days, (all offers
of bail being rejected,) and then discharged, the committee declaring
that the charge against them was not of sufficient weight to require de
fence. There was to be punishment, however, though there was no
guilt; for, notwithstanding their declared innocence, they were charged
with the expense of a major, and a party of fifty-odd men, to parade
through the district, though not a man but would have attended upon the
slightest notice. Nor was this yet sufficient ; but the charges were to be
accumulated by transmitting the bill of costs to the committee of another
district, who employed an officer, who levied his mileage in addition to
the original charges, and all this without any request from the com
mittee for the payment, or any intimation that they were to be paid.
Even at this time, one of the majors, with some other officers, picked
and culled by himself, without any notice to the other field officers, are
fining the people at their will and pleasure, for not going on the late
alarm. It is said that some of them have this week obtained commia-

478 APPENDIX.
sions, superseding the old field officers ; but they have been fining even
a fortnight before they received them.
Thus are the people deprived of their property, by a resolve of the,
committee, (a body in which they were not permitted to have a repre
sentation, and one which was therefore a mutilated one,) a resolve ma
terially differing from that of the Provincial Congress, as it imposes a fine
of fifty pounds ; and a resolve never published in the district till its
effects are so severely felt.
Upon what representation the officers are superseded is not known,
as they had not any hearing previous to it, but it may be proper to re
mark, that the Colonel went up on the alarm with the first, and staid
with the last of the militia. This officer is deprived of the right of fining,
while Colonel Lansing, of Albany, who was buying goods at Philadel
phia during the time, holds his seal in imposing the fines on his regiment.
Thus have the inhabitants of this district been used; while, notwith
standing the assertion of the committee, that there was not only a neces
sity, but a just one, that they should be represented, they have been
excluded from a representation at every Board on the continent ever
since June last, and at the Provincial and Continental Congresses, too,
ever since December, 1775, if the election was justly vacated in January,
1776, on account of its being held in an improper place.
I pledge myself for the proof of the above facts if they are contro
verted. Kinderhook, 25th Jan., 1777. Peter Van Schaack.

F.
Die Lunce, 10 ho. A. M., February 3d, 1777.
The Committee met pursuant to adjournment ; present :
James Livingston, Esq., Chairman.
Mr. Duane,

Col. Broome, > New-York.
Mr. Rob. Harper, )
Mr. Adgafe, ) Albami
Mr. Rob. Yates, $ Albany.
Mr. Tappen, Ulster.
Judge Graham, Westchester.
Mr. Jos. Smith, Orange.
Mr. Newkirk, } „,
Mr. Wm. Harper, \ TrVm-
Mr. Stephens,, Cumberland.
Major Webster, Charlotte.
A letter from Peter Van Schaack, dated at Kinderhook on the 24th
January, was read. He therein informs, that he is sentenced by the

APPENDIX. 479
committee for detecting conspiracies, on their order, to make the town of
¦Boston his prison — he therein assigns some reasons for his havino- re
fused taking an oath of allegiance to this State, and requests permission
to remove from this State with his family and effects.
A detail of the proceedings of the county committee of Albany, and
of the district committee of Kinderhook, from June, 1774, to January,
1777, inclosed and therein referred. to, was read.
A paper marked A, referred to in the said detail as a copy of the
order of the general committee at Albany for the choice of a new com
mittee, dated 30th October, 1775, and a copy of an advertisement of the
Kinderhook committee, dated November, 1775, was also read.
A paper marked B, mentioned in the said detail as a copy of a letter
from Abraham Yates, Jun., chairman of the committee of Albany, to the
committee of Kinderhook, dated the 7th December, 1775, was read.
A paper marked C, and referred to in the said detail as a copy of an
advertisement for holding an election for a committee, to represent the
district of Kinderhook, in the general committee of the county, and dated
January 6th, 1776, was read.
A paper marked D, and referred to in the said detail as a copy of the
protest from the committee of the district of Kinderhook, dated on the 5th
January, 1776, was read, and
A paper marked E, and referred to in the said detail as the last
advertisement for holding an election in the district of Kinderhook, dated
at Albany, 18th June, 1776, was also read.
Thereupon, ordered that the said Peter Van Schaack do attend the
Convention of this State.

G.
I, Peter Van Schaack, of Kinderhook, in the county of Albany, Esquire,
do hereby promise and engage, upon my honor as a gentleman, to return
to my usual place of abode, and remain there till the further order of the
Convention, or future executive power of the State of New- York ; to attend
the said Convention or executive power on notice for that purpose; and
in the mean time, that I will neither directly or indirectly do or say any
thing to the prejudice of the American cause. In witness whereof I have
hereunto subscribed my name, at Kingston, in Ulster county, this 4th
day of April, 1777. Peter Van Schaack.
Test. : Robt. Benson, Secr'y. H.
Saturday, 18th April, 1778.— Minutes relating to the last sickness and
death of my ever dear and ever to be regretted wife, intended to preserve

480

APPENDIX.

in my mind the remembrance of those solemn scenes, and also designed
for the dear pledges of our affection, when they shall arrive at a proper age
to profit by so pious an example ; and, deprived so early of her tender
maternal care, that they may hear her, though dead, yet speaking ! God
grant it may not be in vain.
About eight o'clock I acquainted her that it was the opinion of Dr. T-
that she would not recover, which she received with great composure,
and desired to see her aunt M. Some time after, she complained that I
had not told her before of it, which I excused on account of her confused
state of mind yesterday, owing to the opium she had taken. She ad
mitted the excuse, and then after giving directions about her children,
she told us she thanked God that she felt herself perfectly easy, and
waited his good time. Once she wished it might be soon, but checked
herself as if this might indicate impatience. She very devoutly thanked
God for the happy change wrought in her, observing that she had been
afraid of death, and that even a few nights since all was darkness, but
now she was happy. Observing her friends to shed tears, she begged
them not to grieve at her happiness. She was going, she said, from one
dear Cornelius to another dear Cornelius. Her dear mamma she hoped
to meet in Heaven. She wished much to have seen her papa once more.
 There was a heavy calamity hanging over this country, and this
summer might be a dreadful one, but she would be at peace in her grave ;
— that I should write to all her friends and tell them what she would say
to them. She had frequently lamented her being removed from New-
York, whereby she was deprived of advantages which she highly prized,
and where she was in a happy way, but now she said she would not
have been happier than she was at this time, had she remained in New-
York. She took a solemn and affecting leave of the servants, particularly of
her own wench, who had behaved very ill, and of the aged one of her
father. God bless you, she said, to the latter, I hope to see you in heaven,
and to meet your dear mistress there ; — do not grieve for me, I am happy.
Her charge to H. Van Dyck about me, begging him often to visit me,
especially on Sunday evenings, and to avoid controverted points, such
as predestination. Saturday evening, she asked if we thought she could live till morning
— she thought she could not. Sunday morning, she asked if there was
any thing wrong in praying for a speedy dissolution ; upon our reasoning
with her to convince her there was not, " Oh 1" she said, " Jesus Christ,
receive me then this day, and let me this day be with the blessed spirits,
in Heaven." She frequently repeated the surprising change in her mind, and said,
upon my mentioning that she was given over, although she till then fully
expected to recover, she felt a most inexpressible happiness which had
continued ever since. She addressed my brother Harry, recommending

APPENDIX. 481
to him the pursuit of religion as the only ground of happiness. " I," said
she, " am cutoff in the prime of life, but am happy."
She asked me when Mr. Jay was expected here. She wished me to
convince him, she harbored no resentment for the refusal of her request.
I asked her whether she would not also forgive the committee, who had
refused her physician leave to visit her — " Yes, she forgave them and
every body."
About twelve o'clock she addressed the nurse in a very particular
manner about the baby — recommending her to her care, charging her
with a message to Mrs. Cruger, whom she had appointed the guardian
of the child. She was happy, she repeated, and hoped this after
noon would be her last.
Monday morning, she saw little Betsey, and blessed her with the
greatest composure, though with an eye of the greatest tenderness. She
felt no pain, she said, at seeing her, as she had given the child over.
She recommended to the nurse to he on her guard over her passions, to
curb them, and she hoped to meet her in heaven. The leave she took
of little Cornelius was also truly affecting, desiring that he might not be
brought to her again, as she had given him over. She gave me a very
solemn injunction about my irregular tempers — charging me to be watch
ful of myself, and pronouncing the word circumspect with great empha
sis. She then had locks of her hair cut off for me and others, (who were
present,) for her aunt Mary, her sister, and for Mrs. Cruger.
She had at times slight alienations of mind, the effect of a too great
exertion of spirits ; but in the main she preserved her serenity of mind,
and the greatest strength, of understanding, devoutly wishing for her dis
solution, and repeatedly asking of us how long we thought she could live,
and wishing the doctors to tell her with certainty. She expressed to me
the greatest concern for my happiness — "most sincerely and from the
bottom of my heart do I pity your situation !" were her words. I was
told that she expressed the highest sense of my attention to her, and
prayed God to reward me for it, and said I had done every thing for her.
About two o'clock in the morning, I thought she was dying, and she
was put to bed, and then such a scene followed ! Great God of heaven
and earth support me under the remembrance of it !— violent agonies ! in
which she preserved her mind entire, though'her body was racked to pieces.
— " Come, blessed Jesus ! come, Lord, quickly, come and relieve me from
these agonies !" were the piercing expressions she repeatedly used ; her
eyes lifted up in the most devout manner. When her agony subsided she
prayed most fervently that it might not return. " Oh !" said she, " how
hard it is for soul and body to part ; but thou, Jesus, hast promised me I
shall not again suffer so much." I read to her some pious ejaculations
adapted to her situation, which she attended to and approved of, assenting
to them with great fervor. I also read a prayer against the fear of
death intermixing my own reflections to comfort her, exhorting her to
61

482 APPENDIX.
support her patience — that her sufferings would soon be over, while the
blessed prospect of an everlasting happiness was open to her. She told
us once that she did not suffer for herself alone, but for us all, meaning
for the instruction and benefit of us all. When she once took notice of
some things in the room, I entreated her to withdraw her mind from every
thing but her own situation, as I imagined she was in a slight absence of
mind. " O !" said she, " my agonies make me think of every thing."
Her last groans I heard not, and I dread to inquire about them.
Throughout the whole dreadful scene, however, she showed no impa
tience ; "quickly come, blessed Jesus," was the only expression that look
ed like it, and that was extorted by her agonies : and though she prayed
against the repetition of them, yet she added, " not as I will, but as thou
wilt !" Her pains were evidently the pains of her body ; her mind had no
apprehensions, and seemed most anxiously to pant after an emancipation
from the world. Her prayers were heard, and about ten o'clock on Mon
day night she expired, leaving a complacent smile on her countenance !
Thus died this valuable woman, than whom few of her sex have suf
fered more either in body or mind — a delicate constitution originally. In
October, 1774, she lost one child on whom she doted. In May, 1775,
our eldest son, Cornelius, a promising child, in the bloom of health, was
taken ill, and died at Kinderhook in July, within a few days after which,
when she every day expected the youngest child from New- York with
its nurse, the sloop arrived with an account of his death two days after
the interment of the other ! In August, 1776, she was seized with a
dreadful vomiting of blood, which produced a weakness in the lungs, that
finally terminated in a decline whereof she died. During all her distresses,
she preserved the greatest patience and resignation, and though possess
ed of the liveliest sensibility, which made her feel most severely those ca
lamities wherein her tender affections were so deeply engaged, she receiv
ed the stroke without murmuring at the hand which gave it, always de
ducing some useful consequences from every distress she underwent.
Her judgment was extremely clear, and her understanding naturally
strong; by her own improvement of which, (not having had much educa
tion.) she arrived at a very considerable degree of accuracy in her wri
ting. But the leading star in her character, was her piety, which was
equally fervent and rational. Sincerity in her devotions, and humility of
heart, with charity to the poor, were graces which she eminently pos
sessed. Her idea of the Supreme Being was exalted ; and what I verily
believe chiefly employed her mind, was the great work of redemption.
Every thing on this subject she read and heard with the utmost pleasure ;
the decay of religion she very sincerely lamented, often expressing that
the true worshippers were a small flock. Her mind was not easy^on
account of ihe neglects of her Christian duties, wherewith she reproached
herself, and she regretted the want of those ordinances which had so

APPENDIX. 483
much elevated her devotion in New- York, for which and which only she
wished to be there again. To supply the want of these, she sought
every opportunity of religious conversation, and how sincerely she culti
vated these, few as they were, her friends can testify.
She forbore all investigations of abstruse points, confining herself
merely to the plain, practical doctrines of Christianity, but so far from
Pharisaical self-righteousness, she ascribed every good tp the Great
Source of all goodness, and the last happy state of her mind, she fre
quently declared, was all to be imputed to the glory of God. Her fears
of death entirely vanished when she was certain of its approaches, and
she felt her mind so devoutly composed, as plainly showed that she had
received some divine consolation. Upon no other principle can I account
for her entire victory over the terrors of death, and her perfect confidence
of future happiness.
Anxious to know what passed in her own mind upon sucha momentous
subject, and to be enabled to have proper grounds whereon to form my
own reflections, and whereby to illustrate a general doctrine by an ex
ample under my own eye, I asked her whether she was sensible of any
sensations which she had never experienced before, to which she an
swered that she was not ; that she had felt like pleasures when in the
exercise of her devotions, alluding to those times which she often spoke
of with rapture, when she said she was in a blessed state, in a happy
way, and frequently has she lamented the loss (or as it now appears,
suspension only) of that happy frame of mind.
Her domestic character was exemplary ; as a housekeeper, her man
agement was judicious and economical, though to this she had never
been brought up, having lost her mother early. Her attention to the
education of her children, though too infirm to exercise it as she wished,
was unremitting. Reverence to God, however, she never ceased to in
culcate upon their tender minds.
" From hence remov'd to regions here unknown,
We but resign what none can call his own,
Time, life and friends ; with every talent giv'n,
T' improve on earth, the precious boon of Heaven.
" Hail, happy souls ! whose race is safely run,
Their warfare ended, and their joy begun !
Their sacred dust in sweet repose shall keep,
Till Heaven's last trump shall rouse oblivion's sleep,
When fresh renewed, their sacred dust shall rise,
Resume its form, and hail its native skies !"

' This madd'ning brain, all-gracious Heaven defend,
Nor let me dare presumptuously to blame,
For O ! to question may be to offend,
But sure to murmur must be to blaspheme.

484 APPENDIX.
" Yet the great Power whose wisdom could bestow
A sense so sharp and exquisite of pain,
Will pardon, if extravagance of wo
Should make a wretch improperly complain."
Support me with thy divine assistance, O thou Righteous Judge of
the world ! and having confidence in thy goodness, O God ! enable me
to bear this heavy dispensation with a resigned and patient mind. Ena
ble me to discover, and to submit to thy gracious purpose on this affect
ing occasion ; and to fulfil it as far as in thy mercy it may be intended
for my own benefit. Let me aspire to that happy frame of mind wherein
she died, and when I stagger from my present purposes, enable me to
recall her pious example and dying injunctions, for my temporal and
eternal happiness. Gracious Father, strengthen me to overcome those
irregular passions and evil tempers, which continually lead me away from
the counsels of that reason which thou hast given me, and bountifully
given me may I say, when it only means to condemn me the more se<-
verely for the abuse of talents, which have had the benefit of a liberal im
provement. When I feel myself wavering from my better purposes,
give me grace to call to mind those sentiments which I feel on this af
fecting occasion. When the pleasures of the world would eradicate them,
let me recollect how vain they all appear in a dying hour, and let not
truths lose their force because common and frequently inculcated; for
these truths we must all one day wish to feel, since without that, our
deaths must be the beginning of misery instead of an entrance into a
happy immortality.
Let not the agonies this excellent woman endured before her disso
lution, (however distressing the recollection,) abate of the force of her
Christian example ; — they were the pangs of the body, and she would
have felt them, and with how much additional force thou only knowest,
had she not been the Christian she was ; and let us never forget that she
lost not her reliance on thee by them, but only prayed the more fervently
for her consummation. For my consolation and example let me also re
member, that from the time the fatal tidings that she was past recovery
were announced to her, which she received with the'most perfect sereni
ty, she never expressed the least desire of life, never was the least de
jected in her spirits, or distrustful of her God, or expressed the least re
gret of leaving this world, or doubt of attaining happiness in the other,
being continually supported by the most divine affiance in her God,
through the merits alone of her Redeemer : and let it also be remem
bered, that though she had slight alienations of mind, yet when they
went off her understanding manifested the greatest clearness, and in a
thousand instances which I can recollect, she showed the utmost
propriety and decorum in her conduct, especially in choosing occa
sions of mentioning particular matters to be done after her decease.

APPENDIX. 485
May these short hints, grounded on transactions whereto I was my
self a constant witness, (hints, taken while the impressions arising from
those solemn scenes were recent and efficacious,) have their due weight
on my children, for whose benefit they are thus committed to paper.
They will often, I hope, ruminate on the loss they have sustained, in the
early death of a mother whose maternal care was unremitting, as her
conduct towards them was judicious, and well calculated for their happi
ness, temporal as well as eternal, and by leading such a life as her pray
ers for them constantly aspired after, pay the best tribute to her memory.
" Why heavy, why cast down, my soul !
Trust God, and he'll employ
His promised aid, and change these sighs,
To thankful hymns of joy."
That will then be, when her pious prayers for my eternal welfare, are
productive of that reliance on God's providence, which will enable me
to see his goodness to be no greater when he gives, than when he takes
away ! Blessed be his name !
" Tears, when time has matured a pungent grief into a sweet melan
choly, are not hurtful: they are as the dew of the morning to the green
herbage." — London.

An act more effectually to prevent the mischiefs, arising from the in
fluence and example of persons of equivocal and suspected characters,
in this State. Passed the 30th June, 1778.
Whereas, certain of the inhabitants of this State have, during the
course of the present cruel war, waged by the King and Parliament of Great
Britain against the people of these States, affected to maintain a neutrali
ty, which there is reason to suspect was in many instances dictated by a
poverty of spirit, and an undue attachment to property : And whereas,
divers of the said persons, some of whom advocated the American cause
till it became serious, have, notwithstanding the forbearance of their
countrymen, and contrary to the faith pledged by their paroles, ungrate
fully and insidiously from time to time, by artful misrepresentations, and
a subtle dissemination of doctrines, fears and apprehensions false in them
selves and injurious to the American cause, seduced weak-minded
persons from the duties they owed their country: And whereas the
welfare of this state loudly demands that some decisive measures be
taken with respect to the said persons, and it being repugnant to justice
as well as good policy, that men should be permitted to shelter themselves

486 * APPENDIX.
under a government, which they not only refused to assist in rearing, but
which, some of them daily endeavor to undermine and subvert ; And
¦whereas, such few of the said persons, as may have been led to take a
neutral part by conscientious doubts and scruples have had more than
sufficient time to consider and determine the same:
I. Be it enacted by the people of the State of New- York represented in
Senate and Assembly, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same,
That the Commissioners appointed for inquiring into, detecting and
defeating all conspiracies, which may be formed in this State, against
the liberties of America, or any three of them, be, and they are hereby
authorized and strictly charged and required, to cause all such persons of
neutral and equivocal characters in this State, whom they shall think
have influence sufficient to do mischief in it, to come before them, and to
administer to the said persons respectively, the following oath, or if of
the people called Quakers, affirmation, viz. :
'¦' I, A B, do solemnly, and without any mental reservation or equiv
ocation whatever, swear and call God to witness ; or if of the people
called Quakers, affirm, that I do believe and acknowledge the State of
New-York to be of right, a free and independent State. And that no
authority or power can of right be exercised in or over the said State,
but what is, or shall be granted by, or derived from the people thereof.
And further, That as a good subject of the free and independent State
of New- York, I will, to the best of my knowledge and ability, faithfully do
my duty ; and as I shall keep or disregard this oath, so help and deal
with me Almighty God."
II. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That if on
the oath or affirmation being so tendered, the said person or persons shall
refuse to take the same, the said Commissioners do forthwith remove the
said person or persons so refusing, to any place within the enemy's lines,
and by writing under their hands and seals, certify the names of such
person or persons to the Secretary of this State, who is hereby required
to record and file the said certificates.
III. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That if any
of the said neutrals, shall abscond or absent himself with an apparent
view to avoid the force of this act, the said Commissioners shall, by notice
published in one or more of the newspapers of this State, demand of the
said person or persons so absconding or absenting to appear before them,
at such place in this State, and at such time, not exceeding twenty-one
days from the time of such publication, as they shall assign. And further,
that default in such appearance shall be adjudged to amount to, and is
hereby declared to be a refusal to take said oath or affirmation.
IV. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That if any
of the persons removed to places within the enemy's lines by the said
Commissioners, in pursuance of this act, or who, having as aforesaid
absconded or absented, shall not on notice as aforesaid appear before the

APPENDIX. 487
said Commissioners and take the oath or affirmation aforesaid, shall
thereafter be found in any part of this State; such person or persons so
found, shall on conviction thereof be adjudged guilty of misprision of
treason. And to the end, That this State may in some measure be compensated
.for the injuries it has sustained, by the evil example or practices of the
said neutrals, and that others may be deterred on similar occasions from
acting a part so unmanly and ignominious,
V. Be it jurther enacted by the authority aforesaid, That all lands
held in this State on the twenty-sixth day of June instant, in fee simple
or fee tail, or which may hereafter be acquired by, or devised, granted,
or descend to any of the persons who shall refuse to take the aforesaid
oath or affirmation when called upon by the said Commissioners, shall
forever thereafter, be charged with double taxes, in whosesoever hands
the said lands may hereafter be.
VI. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That the
said Commissioners, previous to the removal of the said several persons
within the enemy's lines, shall from time to time notify the person ad
ministering the government for the time being, of the several persons
so to be removed, who is hereby authorized to detain and confine such
of the said persons as he shall think proper, for the purpose of ex
changing them for any of the subjects of this State, in the power of the
enemy. VII. And be it further enacted by the authority aforesaid, That the
person administering the government of this State for the time being,
be, and he is hereby required to do his best endeavors, that this act be
fully and speedily carried into execution, and all magistrates, sheriffs
and constables are required to be aiding therein.

Debate in the House of Lords, on the Duke of Richmond's motion
relative to the execution of Col. Hayne, at Charleston.
Duke of Richmond. Without a trial, without an opportunity of mak
ing defence, he was first informed that a Council of General Officers would
assemble the next day to try him. Same evening he was informed, in
stead of a council of general officers, a Court of Inquiry composed of
four general officers and five captains, would meet for the purpose of
determining under what point of view he should be considered. These
were sent 26th July, and 29th he was informed that in consequence of
the court of inquiry, Lord Rawdon and the commander L. C. Balfour
had ordered his execution the 31st. On writing to them he is informed,
that he is not to suffer in consequence of the court of inquiry, but that
Lord R. and Col. B. had adjudged him to death by powers invested in

488 APPENDIX.
them as Commander of Charleston, and of the army in South Carolina.
He was respited for forty-eight hours, with a condition, that if Gen.
Green made any application in his favor the respite should cease.
Lord Walsingham. No truth in Gen.. Green's proclamation. Col.
Hayne had forfeited his oath of allegiance, and would not be considered
as a -prisoner of war to be exchanged under a cartel — there was no cartel
subsisting. He had committed an offence which subjected him to im
mediate execution.
Duke of Manchester. Not warranted by common law, military cus
tom, nor any precedent.
Lord Stormont. A clear position, that in time of war, and when mar
tial law prevailed, no person offending against military discipline in any
way whatever, much less any person taken in arms after having been
admitted to his parole, could be tried according to positive municipal
law, but must be disposed of according as the law of nations, instituted
for the mutual benefit of all who were at war, should direct. In the case
of Col. H., that was the only law that could decide ; one established
principle of which is, that whenever an enemy who had been admitted
to his parole, was taken in arms fighting against those who had granted
it to him, he was liable to be hanged up instanter, without any trial what
ever. What trial could there be ? A court martial could not be legally
held — the court mentioned in Mr. Fraser's note was a court of inquiry
for the purpose of ascertaining that Col. H. had been admitted to his
parole, that he had taken the oath of allegiance, and that he was found
in arms. Lord Shelbowrne. He never heard the doctrine of hanging up an ene
my who had broken his parole, instanter.
Lord Chancellor. Upon the taking of Charleston, he asked for his
parole to go to his estate ; that it was refused him, and he took the oath
of allegiance. He called upon Lord S. to tell him in what book it was
stated, that according to the law of nature and nations, (by which and
which alone he said Col. H.'s case could be judged of,) a person taken
in arms after having broken his parole, could not be hanged instanter.
Mr. Pocock had written about what he did not understand, and as if he
hadnever read the articles of war — quoted Grotius about hanging up
spies,, and the reason given was, propter evitandum cadis occasionem.
The power of -executing spies instanter, was not de jure naturce — they
were not executed dolo malo, but dejure gentium. Col. H. was war-
rantably executed. K.
Mr. Charles Townshend — Lord Chatham.
Mr. T. It is a peculiarity in your Lordship's history, that your death
should have been hastened by a vehement exertion of your talents against

APPENDIX. 489
that very independency of the Colonies, of which you laid the foundation
in' the principles you avowed, upon the repeal of the Stamp Act. The
structure you raised in the full lustre of your abilities, was not to be de
molished at a tune when they were in their decline. Your passion for
popularity induced you to foment a spirit, of which, in your cooler mo
ments, you could not, or would not foresee the fatal tendency. Friend as
you unquestionably was to the welfare of your country, and keen in the
discernment of her real interest, how can you endure the reflections of all
those mischiefs which have flowed, as from a copious source, from your
declaration that you gloried in the resistance of America 1
My conduct was infinitely more consistent ; from the abstract princi
ples of all government, from the nature of the connection between the
Parent State and her Colonies, and from the very principles (perverted as
they have been) of Mr. Locke, I clearly saw the absolute and unlimited
supremacy of this country over its distant territories. This maxim,
(which, according to the principles of an administration subsequent to
that in which I acted a part, was a mere dead letter,) I thought it my
^duty to carry into practice. The Stamp Act was its genuine offspring —
it was supported by a just regard to the rights of this country, over Colo
nies for whose defence, preservation and even existence, her blood and
treasures had been expended so copiously ; and it exacted from those Co
lonies only what the purest motives of gratitude ought to have prompted
them spontaneously to have offered, and therefore cheerfully to have
complied with.
Lord C. I will not deny that I have ever been actuated by a zeal
for popular applause ; but in pursuing, I have always studied to deserve
it. In a government like ours, the people form a conspicuous part, but I
never wished to exalt their importance by degrading the majesty of the
throne. I would have had their consequence rather known to Ministers
than to themselves, and I have regretted the necessity I was under, of
publishing in the senate what should have been felt in the closet. The
distinction between right and expedience, I considered, when •applied to
the present question, as idle and groundless. In particular instances it may
be inexpedient to carry even right into practice, but here the objection
was levelled at the power itself in the abstract, and the arguments*which
proved its inexpedience proved also that it had no existence. Abstract
principles, or such as had been formed from governments not situated as
ours was, affected not this question. The case was of such magnitude
as to call for a system adapted and appropriated to itself. The Colonies
were growing into importance, their trade to this commercial nation was
the first object to be secured. Every other should have been subordi
nate to this, and speculative reasonings should have been rejected in the
competition with national advantage. The foundation of American de
pendence was to be laid, and could only be laid, in her affections and in
her interest. The system I proposed, would have equally secured the ad-
62 ...

490 APPENDIX.
vantages of which the connection was capable, and have averted the mis
chiefs to be dreaded from its dissolution.
Mr. T. But was not your distinction between taxation and legisla
tion at large merely chimerical, and was not the separating that which
was one indivisible aggregate, the cause of the Colonies denying one
power after another, until they reduced almost the whole legislative code
to a mere rope of sand 1
Lord C. My systems were practical, not theoretical. I deduced them
from the nature of the subject as it actually existed, and considered men
as they were, not what visionaries in their closets might think they
ought to be. Laws were formed for men, not men for laws. I consider
ed that the dependence of the colonies might be essentially preserved
without the taxing power, and I saw that her wealth was pouring into
our country through the channels of commerce, with a profusion unparal
leled in history. It was a pitiful idea to attempt the drawing a revenue
from them because they were growing opulent, when the effects of that
opulence were coming to us and enhanced beyond all comparison in a
different way. I viewed the end of our Colonial connection, and I adapt
ed the means to effectuate it*

Sixth Article of the definitive Treaty of Peace between the United
States and Great Britain, signed 3d September, 1783, and ratified by
Congress 14th January, 1784.
Article 6th. That there shall be no future confiscations made, nor
any prosecutions commenced against any person or persons for or by rea
son of the part which he or they may have taken in the present war ; and
that no person shall on that account suffer any future loss or damage,
either in his person, liberty, or property, and that those who may be in
confinement on such charges, at the time of the ratification of the treaty
in America, shall be immediately set at liberty, and the prosecutions so
commenced be discontinued.
* The above is evidently only a part of the original composition, judging
from the manuscript.

END.

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THE NATURAL HISTORY OF SOCIETY,
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posed. Each volume is printed on the finest paper, elegantly ornamented, and
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Contents ;
Joan of Aitc. The Curse of Kehama.
Juvenile and Minor Poems. Roderick the last of the Goths
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Madoc. . Lay of the Laureate.
Ballads and Metrical Tales. Vision of Judgment, &c.
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rtey have been auspiciously received, and to- those who will take a lively concern in my good nama
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SCRIPTURE AND GEOLOGY.
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Scriptures, so that they may harmonize with the discoveries of geology ; the eighth js the peroration
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TOUR THROUGH TURKEY AND PERSIA.
Narrative of a Tour through Armenia, Kurdistan, Persia, and Mesopotamia, with an Introduction end
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SCOTLAND AND THE SCOTCH,
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By Catherine Sinclair, author of Modern Accomplishments, Modern Society, &c. Sec. 1 vol.- 12mo
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LIMITATIONS OF HUMAN RESPONSIBILITY.
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THE FLAG SHIP;
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*' This work has been some time befoTe the public ; but if in consequence of our late notice, it shall
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fail to be interesting. Facts and real occurrences, are things of which we never grow weary. But
this work has a far higher claim to regard. Its literary character is certainly very respectable, and the
benevolent snirit and Christian interest with which the varied incidents of a visit to almost every na
tion on the globe were regarded, give the book an unwonted value. The abilility to survey *» ™I?
asDects of the world, is a qualification of which the far greater part of travellers are utterly deficient.
Probably stoe the valuable journal of Tyerman, and Bennett, there has been no other J one published
which exhibits so satisfactory a view of the Christian missions of the world as this. We think it adapted
to interesTns readers not only, but greatly to instruct them, and especially to awaken a deep and
lively sympathy for the moral wants and miseries of the world. '—Evangelist.
WORKS BY ISAAC TAYLOR.
HOME EDUCATION.
Bv Isaac Taylor, author of " Natural History of Enthusiasm,'- &c. &c. Second edition.
1 1 vol. 12mo.
In this volume the general principle, of Education, as applicable to private families and to small
«^l£are sS.£d explained ; such methods of treatment, especially, being suggested, as ar boat

6 ». APPLETON & CO.'S
suited to the circumstances of a country residence ; at the same time, hints are offered of s kind to be
available under any circumstances for carrying on the culture of those of the intellectual faculties that
are' the earliest developed, and on the due expansion of which the force and efficiency of the mature
mind depend.
•'A very enlightened, just, and Christian view of a most important subject." — American Bib. Rep.
SPIRITUAL CHRISTIANITY.
Lectures on Spiritual Christianity. By Isaac Taylor, author of " Spiritual Despotism," dee. dec.
1 vol. 12mo.
<( This work is the production of one of the most gifted and accomplished minds of the present age*
If some of hie former productions may have been thuught characterized by too much of metaphysical
abstraction, and in some instances, by speculations of doubtful importance, the present volume is, we
think, in no degree liable \o this objection. It is indeed distinguished for deep thought and accurate
discrimination ; and whoever wpuld read it to advantage, must task his faculties in a much higher de
gree than in reading ordinary books ; and yet it contains nothing which an ordinary degree of intelli
gence and application may not readily comprehend. The view which it gives of Christianity, both as
a system of truth and a system of duty, is in the highest degree instructive ; and its tendencies are
hot less 'to quicken the intelleotual faculties, than to direct and elevate the moral sensibilities. We
have- no doubt that it will be read with great interest by those who read to find materials for thought,
and that it is destined to exert a most important influence, especially on the more intellectual class©*,
in the advancement of the interests of truth and piety." — Albany Evening Journal.
PHYSICAL THEORY OF ANOTHER LIFE.
By Isaac Taylor, author of "Natural History of Enthusiasm." Third edition.
1 vol. 12mo.

MINIATURE CLASSICAL LIBRARY.
Great pains have "been bestowed in the selection of this unique Library ; it will
comprise tbe best works of our venerated authors,, published in an elegant form,
with a beautiful frontispiece,, tastefully ornamented. The following are now
ready; GOLDSMITH.— Essays, By Oliver Goldsmith.
GOLDSMITH.— The Vicar of Wakefield. By Oliver Goldsmith,
JOHNSON.— The History of Basselas, Prince of Abyssinia, a Tale. By Samuel
Johnson, LL.D.
OOTTTN.— Elizabeth ; or, the Exiles of Siberia, By Madame Cottin.
The extensive popularity of this little tale is well known.
TOKEN of Affection. Do. of Friendship. Do. of Remembrance.
Each volume consists of appropriate poetical extracts from the best wi iters of the day.
PURE. GOLD from the Rivers of Wisdom.— A collection of short extracts on Religions
subjects from the older writers, Bishop Hall, Sherlock, Barrow, Paley, Jeremy Taylor, &c.
ST. PIERRE.— Paul and Virginia. From the French of J. B. H. De StFierxe..
%* These volumes will be followed by others of attested merit.

EVENINGS WITH THE CHRONICLERS?
. , Or, Uncle Rupert's Tales of Chivalry.
By R. M. Evans. With many illustrations. \ vol. 16mo., elegantly bound.
" This would hawe been :i volume after our own henrts, while we were younger, and it is scarcely
leu so now when we are soinewhatolder. It discourses of those things which charmed all of ns in
early youth. The daring deeds of the Knights and Squires of feudal warfare. The true version of
the *' Chevy Chase," the exploits of the stout and stalwart Warriors of England, Scotland and Ger
many. In a word, it is an ftttractive book, arid rendered- more so to young readers by a series of wood
engravings, beautifully executed, illustrating the letter-press .descriptions. There are seventeen of
these plates in the volume, and the whole book-is so excellently printed, and upon such good paper,
that it is in all respect* valuable." — Courier § Enquirer*

VALUABLE PUBLICATIONS. 7
APPLETON'S TALES FOR THE PEOPLE AND
THEIR CHILDREN.
The greatest care is taken in selecting; the works of which the collection is com-
posed, so that nothing either mediocre in talent, or immoral in tendency, is ad-
mitted. Each volume is printed on the finest paper, is illustrated with an ele
gant frontispiece, and is bound in a superior manner, tastefully ornamented.
The following have already appeared, uniform in Bize and style :
THE POPLAR GROVE j
Or, Little Harry and his Uncle Benjamin. By Mrs. Oopley, a-ithor of " Early Friendship,"
' &c. Sec. 1 vol. 18mo., beautiful frontispiece.
*' An excellent little story this, showing how sound sense, honest principles, and intelligent indus
try, not only advance their possessor, but, as in the case of Uncle Benjamin the gardener, enable him
to become the benefactor, guide, and friend of relations cast down from a loftier sphere in life, and,
but for him, without resource.
" It is a tale ibr youth, of all classes, that cannot be read without profit." — N.Y. American,
EARLS' FRIENDSHIP.
By Mrs. Oopley. 1 vol. 18mo., plates;
" A charming little book this for young girls— good counsel conveyed in the language of affection,
and with all the attraction of an interesting story. It is a series of admonitions about the girlish friend
ships formed at school— sometimes so injadicious, often so influential in the formation of character.'*
— jV.y. American. THE TWO DEFAULTERS j
Or, a Picture of the Times. By Mrs. Griffith (of New- York.)
" A most interesting little volume, not excelled by any one of the series."
MASTERMAN READY;
Or the Wreck of the Pacific. Written for Young Persons, 'by Oapt. Marryat. I to). 18mo
frontispiece.
"'We have never seen any thing from the same pen we like as well as this. The Captain had pro
mised his children to write a story for them, and nndertook in consequence to continue the bwiss Ko-
binsou Crusoe ; but on application to the work, soon discovered it wonld.beeasier and more useful to
those for whom he was writing, to strike out into an entirely new story. He has done so most suc
cessfully. It is still the tale of shipwreck and desolate island, and Masterman Ready is the personifi
cation of all the practical talents and available shifts which much knocking about ; in the world teaches
to some-not all-men. There is, moreover, much and accurate knowledge displayed throughout,
communicated in a way to be both intelligible and attractive to youthful »A,» ™ „T«°boot "!!
conclude our notice of it, than by repeating the exclamation of a clever boy, as he finished the book,—
' Well, I am so glad it is to be continued.' "-N.Y. American.
THE PEASANT AND THE PRINCE.
By Harriet Martineau. 1 vol. 18mo.
" The versatile talent of Miss Martineau has been employed of late in preparing for the P»°Pj« «»|
their children a most inviting little history of Louis Sixteenth and his. family. Here, in a style even
s££ksvs&5££ h=^^ce«ea"^s^ BSKtt
authono secure Kdj life the ascendancy of the reflective and reasoning powers over themagma-
Hon, will, we doubt not, be successful."— JV. Y. Conner.
THE SETTLERS AT HOME.
By Harriet Martineau. 1 vol. 18mo.
» The circumstances under which this little volume, for the amusement of *'"«»>. ha*b""!J fJ2l
duced gi™™™*S charm to its truth, simplicity and feeling. The tale tta^hm™ passage
so"^ful enough to moisten many a pair of eyes is fu 1 of n™****™ ^ £ °nt *es£n A?f
&Wh^ad"d^at^^ WHO SHALL BE GREATEST?
A Tale. By Mary Howitt. 1vol. 18mo., plates.
« Th* great moral lesson inculcated bv this book is indicated bv its title ; and *hile it iapronune*

8 p. APPLETON & CO.'S,
enough through the whole volume, it comes out at the close with most impressive effect. We need
not say it is a lesson which every human being is the wiser and the better for learning. We cordially
recommend the work to all who would desire to form a sober and rational estimate of the world's en
joyments." — Albany Evening Journal. SOWING- AND REAPING;
s Or, What will come of it ? By Mary Howitt. 1 vol. 18mo., plates.
"We commenced it with the intention of just looking it over for the purpose of -writing a cursory
notice ; but we began to read, and so we went on to the finis. It is very interesting ; the characters
are full of individuality." — New Bedford Mercury.
* STRIVE AND THRIVE :
A Tale. By Mary Howitt. 1 vol. 18mo., plates.
" The mere announcement of the name of the authoress, will doubtless bring any of her productions
to the immediate notice of the public ; but Strive and Thrive is not a book for children only, but can be
-«ad with pleasure and advantage by those of a more mature age. It fully sustains the reputation of
its predecessors. The style is easy and flowing, the language chaste and beautiful, and the incidents
of the tale calculated to keep up the interest to the end ." — N. Y. Courier <fr Enquirer.
HOPE ON, HOPE EVER ;
Or, the Boyhood of Felix Law. By Mary Howitt. 1 vol. 18mo.
11 A very neat volume with the above title, and the farther annunciation that it may be called Take
for the People and their Children, has been written by Mary Howitt, whose name is so favourably
known to the reading community.
" This volume, like all others that emanate from the pen of this lady is extremely interesting : the
characters are naturally drawn, while the feeling and passion displayed, give the work a higher rank
than is usually allotted to nursery tales." — Commercial Advertiser.
THE LOOKING-GLASS FOR THE MIND;
Or, Intellectnal Mirror, being an elegant collection of the most delightful little stories and
interesting tales : chiefly translated from that much admired work L'ami des Enfans; with
numerous wood cuts. The twentieth edition. 1 vol. 18mo.
" The stories here collected are of a most interesting character, since virtue is constantly represented
as the fountain of happiness, and vice as the source of every evil : as a useful and instructive Looking
glass, we recommend it for the instruction of every youth, whether Miss or Master ; it is a mirror that
will not flatter them, or lead theni into error ; it displays the follies and improper pursuits of youthful
hearts, points out the dangerous paths they sometimes tread* and clears the way to the temple of
honour and fame. DINING- OUT.
Together with Confessions of a Maniac. By Mrs. Ellis, author of " Women of England/'
&c. 1 vol. l8mo.
" The tendency of this little book is one of the best and noblest. The scenes and characters are, it
is believed, portraits, aiming, as it does, at the correction of a too prevalent vice. It is expected that it
will command, among the serious and thinking part of the community, as extensive a popularity as
* Nicholas Nickleby,' in its peculiar circle."
SOMERVILLE HALL. To which is added, RISING TIDE.
|.. By Mrs. Ellis. 1 vol. 18mo.
1 This little book has much to' recommend itself. It contains an interesting and lesson-teaching tale,
which cannot fail to impress its prominent features on many a breast:"
*** It is intended to include in this series some of the best works in our language.

A GIFT FROM FAIRY LAND.
By J. K. Paulding, Esq. Illustrated with one hundred unique original plates by Chapman ; elegantly
bound. 1 vol. 12mo.
PAST DAYS :
A Story for Children. By Esther Whitlock,, Square 18mo.
" It is a delightful, instructive little book ; and if the child, when she closes the volume, find her
eyes 'red with weeping/ let her not be ashamed ; one old enough to be her grandfather, caught the
same disease from the same source."— Philadelphia United States Gazette.
SPRING AND SUMMER.
The Juvenile Naturalist ; or Walks in the Country, By the Rev. B. H. Draper. A beautiful
volume, with fifty elegant plates, 1vol. square, handsomely bound
AUTUMN AND WINTER,
The Juvenile Naturalist ; or Walks in the Country. By the Rev. B. H. Draper. A beautiful
volume, with many plates, uniform with " Spring and Summer."

VALUABLE PUBLICATIONS. 9
THE YOUNG NATURALIST'S JOURNEY ;
Or, Trav«li of Agnes Morton and her Mamma. By Mrs. London. With many beautiful pita.
THE OLD OAK TREE.
A most interesting little volume of practical instruction for youth; illustrated with nearlr
fifty beautiful plates. '

WORKS BY REV. ROBT. PHILIP.
THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JOHN BUNYAN,
Author of The Pilgrim's Progress. By Robert Philip, With a fine portrait. 1 vol. 12mo. *
THE LIFE AND OPINIONS OF DR. MILNE,
Missionary to Ohina.
Illustrated by Biographical Annals of Asiatic Missions, from Primitive Protestant Times ; intended as
a Guide to Missionary Spirit. By Robert Philip. 1 vol. 12mo.
" The name of Philip has in this country, as well as in Great Britain, become a passport to public
favour. Though the subject of this memoir may not be surrounded with the same splendid attractions
as was that of the memoir of Bunyan, yet it is one of very great interest ; and to the Christian reader,
and especially to those who are deeply interested in the cause of missions, it will probably bear a com
parison with almost any that have gone before it. The work is executed with great skill, and embodies
a vast amount of valuable missionary intelligence, besides a rich variety of personal incidents, adapted
to gratify not only the missionary or the Christian, but the more general reader. " — Albany Adv.
YOUNG MAN'S CLOSET LIBRARY.
By Robert Philip. With an Introductory Essay by Rev. Albert Barnes. 1 vol. 19mo
LOVB OF THE SPIRIT, Traced in his Work : a Companion to the Experimental Guides.
By Robert Philip. lrol.lSmo.
PEVOTIOMAI. AND EXPERIMEWTAIi GUIDES. By Robert Philip. With an Intro.
ductory Essay by Rev. Albert Barnes. 2 vols. 12mo. Containing:
Guide to the Perplexed. I Guide to the Doubting.
Bo do Devotional. 1 Bo do Conscientious.
Bo do Thoughtful. 1 Bo do Redemption.
LADY'S CLOSET LIBRARY.
as follows:
tut! MARTS ; or Beauty of Female Holiness. By Robert Philip. 1 vol. 18mo.
¦mn MARTHAS ; or Varieties of Female Piety. By Robert Philip. 1 vol. 18mo.
THE LTDIASj or Development of Female Character. By Robert Philip, lvol. 18mo.
The MATERNAL SERIES of the above popular Library is now ready, entitled
THE HAOTNTAHS j or Maternal Influence of Sons. By Robert Philip. 1 vol. 18mo.
" The author of this work is known to the public as one of the most prolific writers of the day, and
scarcely any writer in the department which he occupies, has acquired so extensive and well-merited
a popularity. The present volume, as its title denotes, is devoted to an illustration of the influence
*f motheis on their sons; and the subject is treated with the same originality and beauty which char
acterize the author's other works. It will be found to be a most delightful and useful companion in
the nurserv.and its influence can hardly fail to be felt ; first, in quickening the sense of responsibi
lity on the part of mothers ; and next, in forming the character of the rising generation to a higher
standard ofintelligence and virtue." — Evangelist.

WORKS BY THE REV. JOHN A. JAMES.
PASTORAL ADDRESSES.
By Rev. John Angell James. With an Introduction by the Rev. Wm. Adams. 1 vol. 18mo.
„w' nb. that the publishers of this volume made an accurate calculation when they labelled

10 D. APPLETON & CO.'S
atity of Mind ; Heavenly-Mi ndedness ; Assurance of Hope ; Practical Religion seen in every thing ;
A. Profitable Sabbath ; Christian Obligations ; Life of Faith ; Influence of elder Christians ; Spirit of
Prayer1; Private Prayer, arid Self-Examination.'" — Christian Intelligencer.
" Simple in their style, and evangelical in their spirit, these addresses embody most of those desire-
able influences v/nich a zealous pastor wishes to see operating amongst his people, and they are such as
eannot fail to be of great practical utility to all who will bestow upon them a serious and thoughtful
attention. The introduction is by the Rev. William Adams', of New- York, and is of itself alone a- suf
ficient guarantee of the intrinsic quality of the. addresses, stamping at once their value and genuine
ness." — Boston Transcript, i THE YOTJNG- MAN FROM HOME.
In a series of Letters, especially directed for the Moral Advancement of Youth. By the
Rev. John Angell James. Fifth edition, 1 vol. 18mo.
11 This work, from the able and prolific pen of Mr. James, is not inferior, we think, to any of its pre
decessors. It contemplates a. young man tit the most critical period of life, and meets him at every
>>int as a guide in the paths of virtue, as a guard from the contagious influence of vice. Every young
man' who desires to form a virtuous and useful character, should possess himself of this admirable
work; arid every Christian parent, whose sons are leaving the paternal mansion for another home,
should take care that they carry away with them this rich treasury of Christian counsel and instruc
tion." — Albany Advertiser THE CHRISTIAN PROFESSOR
Addressed in a series of Counsels and Cautions to the Members of Christian Churches, By
Rev, John Angell James. , 1 vol. 18mo.
" The author remarks, in this excellent volume : ( When I look into the New Testament, and read
what a Christian should be, and then look into the church of God, and see what Christians aref I am
painfully affected by observing the dissimilarity ; and in my jealousy for the honour of the Christian
profession, have made this effort, perhaps a feeble one, and certainly an anxious one, to remove its
blemishes, to restore its impaired beauty, and thus raise its reputation.'
" ' It is hot my intention to enter into the' consideration of private, experimental, or doctrinal reli
gion, so much as into its practical parts ; and to contemplate the believer rather as a professor, than a
Christian, or at least, rather as a Christian in relation to the world, than in his individual, capacity, or
in his retirement.'
" The following are the divisions under which.he treats his subject, viz. : What the Christian pro
fession imports : its Obligation and Design : the Dangers of Self-Deception ; the Young Professor ;'
an attempt to compare the present generation of 'Professors' with others that have preceded them ; the
necessity and importance of Professors not being satisfied with low degrees of Piety, &nd of their seek
ing to attain to eminence ; the duty of Professors to avoid the appearance of evil ; on Conformities to
the World; on the Conduct of Professors in reference to Politics ; on Brotherly Love; the Influence
of Professors ; their Conduct towards Unconverted Relatives ; the Unmarried Professor ; the Profes
sor in Prosperity ; in Adversity ; the Conduct of Professors away from Home ; the Backsliding Pro
fessor ; on the necessity of the Holy Spirit's Influence to sustain the Christian Profession ; the Dying
Professor." — New-York Observer.
THE ANXIOUS ENQUIRER AFTER SALVATION
Directed and Encouraged. By Rev. John Angell James. 1 vol. 18mo.
Twenty thousand copies of this excellent little volume have already been sold, which fully attests
the high estimation the work has attained with the religious community.
HAPPINESS, ITS NATURE AND SOURCES,
By Rev. John Angell James. 1 vol. 32mo.
11 ThiB is written in the excellent author's best vein. He has, with a searching fidelity, exposed the
various unsatisfying expedients by which the natural heart seeks to attain the great end and aim of
all— happiness, arid with powerful and touching exhortations directed it to the never-failing source of
all good. The author does not engage himself in speculations or theories. The results of extended
observation, the testimony of well-attested experience, are arrayed, in the light of which the true way
and the false are clearly seen. It is eloquently and pointedly written. A better book we have not in
a long time seen^^-rEvangelist. THE WIDOW DIRECTED
To the Widow's Gt-od. By the Rev. John Angell James. 1 vol. 18mo.
" If any thing more were necessary to give this book currency with the Christian community than
the name of its author, we should have it in the peculiarly tender and interesting nature of the subject
on whicn he writes. He has.written many good books, and all belong to the same general class ; and
though some of them are more generally applicable than this, yet in no one, perhaps, has he discover
ed a more skilful hand, °* a more tender and devout spirit. ' The book is worthy to be read by others
besides the class for which it is especially designed ; and we doubt not that it is destined to come as a
friendly visiter to many a house of mourning, and as a healing balm to many a wounded heart." — N. Y.
Observer, ¦ '*?

VALUABLE PUBLICATIONS. H
WORKS BY THE REV. DR. SPRAGUE.
TRUE AND FALSE RELIGION.
LECTURES ON REVIVALS IN RELIGION.
By W. B. Sprague, D.D. With an Introductory Essay by Leonard Woods, D.D. 1 vol. 13m.
LETTERS TO A DAUGHTER,
^voLlitao? SUb3eCtS" BF W- B' SpragUe' D,tt Fourth edinon> r6lriae'1 «** <"to*S°i.
LECTURES TO YOUNG PEOPLE.
BedWon. Sl'Jo!U12moI:>' With ^ Introduotory Address. By Samnel Miller, D.D. Fourth
.^f. ™'n^!fi °f »Dr- Sp'aSrU8 "V00 weU ^own> and '°° IliShlT estimated by the Christian com
munity generally, to require any other encom.um than is furnished by their own merits : for this rea
son it is thought unnecessary to subjoin the favourable testimonies borne to their utility and excel
lence by the whole circle of the periodical press of this country, and the fact that they have each
abroad S »overal editions in England, sufficiently attests the estimation in which they are held
 >
WILLIAMS'S MISSIONARY ENTERPRISES.
A Narrative of Missionary Enterprises and Triumphs in the South Seas, -with Remarks upon
the Natural History of the Islands, Origin, Language, Tradition, and Usages of the Inhabi
tants. By the Rev. John Williams, of the London Missionary Society.
Num'erous plates. 1 vol. large 12mo.
".We have been greatly delighted with this work. And if asked, why 1 we answer, because it
furnishes the most full and satisfactory account of Polynesia, the isles of the Pacific, we have any
where met with. 2. 3t relates facts, occurrences, and incidents, of which the author was eye and ear
witness. 3. It incidently gives a full-length portrait of the missionary character of the present age ; a
.portrait that even Satan must admire, though ' he cannot love.' 4. It fairly developes the true spirit
of the Christian missions, and the principles on which they are successfully conducted. 5. It exhibits
the astonishing power of the gospel in the transformation of the most degraded class of human beings.
6. It evinces the inseparable connexion between Christianity and civilization ; between the gospel re
ceived, and man's present happiness, 7. It illustrates the grace of God, as displayed in the triumphant
death of heathen converts. 8. It exposes the ignorance and wickedness of those who misrepresent the
design and operations of Christian missions. 9. It demonstrates that the ' isles of the sea' are waiting
for God's law, and that God's time has come for their conversion. 10. It urges powerfully to greatly
enlarged effort for the * immediate emancipation ' of all the slaves of Satan from the bondage of thou
sands of years.
" Besides these, we might state many other reasons for our high satisfaction with this transatlantic
volume. It is written in a style of great simplicity, in a spirit of great meekness, in a tone of candour
¦nd modesty, that we much admire. - It conveys no small amount of valuable geographical and geolo
gical information ;' much of it new to us, and probably to others. It is replete with distinct references
to the hand of Divine Providence, and with devout reflections, that render it valuable, even as an ' aid
to devotion.' It is throughout highly attractive for the variety of its matter, for the fairness of its
occasional discussions on some mooted questions of natural history, &c, for the light it throws on the
social condition of different tribes of savages, and their intellectual character, and for the continuity
of the whole story.
" Other minds may not be affected like our own. But if the practised reader of novels and romances
finds the charms of fiction working as powerfully to withdraw his mind from all things around him, as
we have found the charms of these authentic ' Missionary Enterprises ' working on ourselves, we won
der not at his attachment to them, however unjustifiable it may be. After once entering fairly into
the spirit of the narrative, it is hardly possible for us to conceive of a pious mind that can * let it go '
till it shall have been ' devoured.' "— Evangelist.
MISSIONARY'S FAREWELL.
By the Rev. John Williams, author of " Missionary Enterprises," &c.
1 vol. 18mo.
THE MARTYRED MISSIONARIES.
Memoirs of the Rev. Samuel Munson and the Rev. Henry Lyman, late Missionaries to the
Indian Archipelago, with the Journal of their Exploring Tour. :By the Rev. William
Thompson. 1 TOl- 12mo.
DISCOURSES ON THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
Seleot Discourses on the Functions of the Nerffous System, in opposition to Fhrenoiogy,
Materialism and Atheism j to which is prefixed a Lecture on the Diversities of the Human
Character arising from Physiological Peculiarities. By John Augustine Smith, MJX
1 vol 12mo.

12 D. APPLETON & CO.'S PUBLICATIONS.
LAFEVER'S MODERN ARCHITECTURE. '
Beauties of Modern Architecture : consisting of forty-eight plates of Original Designs, with
Flans, Elevations and Sections, also a Dictionary of TechnicalTerms j the whole forming
a complete Manual for the Practical Builder. By M. Lafevnr, Architect,
1 vol. large 8vo., half bound.'
* LAFEVER'S STAIR-CASE AND HAND-RAIL CONSTRUCTION. "*
The Modern Practice of Stair-case and Hand-rail Construction, practically explained, in 0
series of Designs. By M. Lafever. Architect. With Flans and Elevations for Ornamen
tal Villas. Fifteen Plates, l" vol. large 8vo.
HODGE ON THE STEAM-ENGDm
The Steam- Engine , its Origin and Gradual Improvement, from the time of Hero to the pre
sent day, as adapted to Manufactures, Locomotion and Navigation, Illustrated with forty
eight plates in full detail, numerous wood cuts, Sec. By Paul R. Hodge, CE. .x
1 vol. folio of plates, and letter-press in 8vo. "~**y
" The letter-press volume furnishes a comprehensive history of the invention and the various im
provements which have been made in the steam-engine, from the earliest period to the present time,
together with such practical rules and explanations as are necessary Eoeuahle the mechanic to design
. nd construct a machine of any required power, and of the most improved form, for any of the numer
ous applications of steam/ For the purpose of rendering the reference" from the letter-press to the
plates more convenient,, the engraved illustrations are published in a separate volume, in the folio form
These plates are all drawn to certain scales, and the dimensions of every part may be taken, and ma
chines built from any of the designs. **
" The nrnst recent and approved engines of their respective classes appear to have been selected,
and, with four exceptions jm-ly, are all of American construction and arrangement. The volume of
plates, as a work of the a-rfttf drawing, forms one of the most splendid specimens that has .ever fallen
under our observation. Mr. Hodge, the author of this truly practical and valuable work,, is, it y/ill ba
recollected, the inventor of the steam fire-engine, the utility of which, in extinguishing fires, has-been
fully tested."— Courier ty Enquirer • <.. . ^
THE PROTCD?LES OF, DIAGNOSIS.
By Marshall Hall, MD. F.R.S., &o. Second edition, with many improvements, By Dr
John A. Sweet, lvol. Bvo. '»¦
This work was published in accordance with some of, the most celebrated physicians of this country,
who were anxious that it should be brought within the reach of all .classes of medical men, to whose
attention it offers strong claims as the latest and best work on the^subject, and as being calculated to
nil a blank in the medical library, the existence of which, hitherto, has been generally admitted and
deplored. KEIGHTLEY'S MYTHOLOGY FOR SCHOOLS.
The Mythology of Ancient Greece and Italy, designed for the Use of Schools. By Thomas
Keightley. Numerous wood-cut illustrations.1 vol. 18mo., half bound.
HAZEN'S SYMBOLICAL SPELLING-BOOK.
The Symbolical Spellirif. Book, in two parts. By Edward Hazen.
Containing 288 engravings.
MY SON'S MANUAL. f
Comprising a Summary View of the Studies, Accomplishments, and Principles of Conduct, beet suited
for promoting Respectability and Success in Life. Elegantly engraved frontispiece.
1 vol. 18mo.
MY DAUGHTER'S MANUAL.
Comprising a Summary View of Female Studies, Accomplishments, and Principles of Conduct. Btie-
tiftti frontispiece. • lvol. ISmo.
ELLA V  ,  ;
Or the fuly Tour. By one of the party* 1 vol. 12mo.
" He can form a moral on. a glass of champagne. " — Le Rof*
ORTJDEN'S CONCORDANCE.
Containing all the Words to be found in the large Work relating to the New Testament.
1 vol. 18mo.
THE FOLYMIORIAN NEW TESTAMENT.
Numerous References. Maps, &c. 1 vol. 18mo.

YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

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