, Gass_h. Book -V, '■ I 9 .y r / THE TOUR OF ^ ** PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, THROUGH THE NORTHERN AND EASTERN STATES, IN 1817 ; HIS TOUR IN THE YEAR 1818; TOGETHER WITH . A SKETCH OF HIS LIFE ; WITH DESCRIPTIVE AND HISTORICAL NOTICES OF THE PRINCIPAL PLACES THROUGH WHICH HE PASSED. » You would have thought the very windows mov'd, To see him as he pass'd, so many young and old, Through casements darted their desiring eyes." SECOND EDITION. BY S. PUTNAM WALDO, ESQ. Compiler of" Robbins' Journal," and Author of "Memoirs of Jackson." HARTFORD : PUBLISHED BY SILAS ANDRUS. 1 820.* DISTRICT OF CONNECTICUT, ss. . ******* BE IT REMEMBERED, That on the sixteenth * L S * ^ a ^ °f August, iu the forty-fourth year of the Inde- * * pendence of the United States of America, Silas An- ******** drus, of the said District, hath deposited in this office fhe title of a Book, the right whereof he claims as Proprietor, in the words following, to wit : "The Tour of James Monroe, President of the United States. through the Northern and Eastern States, in 1817 ; his Tour in the year 1818 ; together with a sketch of his life ; With descrip- tive and historical notices of the principal places through which he passed. " You would have thought the very windows movM, To see him as he pass'd, so many young and old. Through casements darted their desiring eyes." By S. Putnam Waldo, Esq. Compiler of " Bobbins' Journal," iind Author of "Memoirs of Jackson. 7 ' In conformity to the Act of the Congress of the United States, entitled, " An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts and Books, to the authors and pro- prietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned." CHAS. A. INGERSOLL, Clerk of the District of Connecticut. A true copy of Record, examined and sealed by me. CHAS. A. INGERSOLL, Clerk of the District of Connecticv* P. B. GOODSELL, PRINTER. fli i TO THE CITIZENS OF THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC. The diffidence I feel in offering this volume to my fellow citizens, is greatly di- minished in reflecting upon the peculiarly interesting subject of it. However imper- fect its execution — however numerous its errors, and however deficient in style, the importance of the subject matter, will, I trust, secure to it from you an indulgent re- ception With ardent wishes for the perpetuity of our Republican Institutions, I am, Fellow Citizens, Your Obedient Servant, S. PUTNAM WALDO. Hartford, Sept. 1819. PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION. THE inducement to the publication of the first Edition of this work, arose from a desire to preserve, in a volume, the inter- esting incidents in the President's First Tour,— the Addresses delivered to him, and his Answers to them. Knowing that a monotonous detail of ci- vilities bestowed and reciprocated, would fatigue the reader, I attempted to blend with the narrative, Descriptive and Histori- cal notices of the country through which he travelled; having, from personal observa- tion, acquired some knowledge of the great- est part of the country the President ex- plored. VI. PREFACE. From the diversity of matter contained in the work, errors may be expected, and will undoubtedly be discovered. The Second Tour of the President was a very limited one, and of course the account of it is short. It is sincerely to be hoped that a much abler hand will present to the public an ac- count of his extensive and interesting Tour in 1819. THE AUTHOR. Hartford, Sept, 1819. CONTENTS. As the following work is a continued narrative, with- out any division into Sections or Chapters, it may be a covenience to the reader to furnish a concise table of contents, pursuing the order in which the work is ar- ranged, and the course in which the President travelled. Biographical Sketch of James Monroe, page. President of the United States, - - 13 Introductory remarks, to an account of the Presi- dent's Election, - - - 39 Inauguration, and Inaugural Speech, - 41 Extract from a Dublin Gazette, - - 53 Extempore Address, 4th March 1817, - 54 Introductory remarks to the Tour of the President, 55 City of Washington — permanent seat of govern- ment, description of it, - 60 Departure from Washington, 31st May, 1817, 61 MARYLAND— 1st Entrance. Baltimore — arrival at that place, - - 61 Observation of the Sabbath, - - 62 Manner of reception there, - - 63 Address of the citizens, and answer of the President, 64 Description of that place, - - - 67 Passage to Newcastle, - * ' •■ - QS PENNSYLVANIA— -1st entrance. Philadelphia — arrival at that place — importance of it, 69 Cincinnati Society — Address of, at this place, and Answer, - - - - 71 Description of that place and its rank, - 72 NEW-JERSEY. Trenton — President's reflections upon his approach to it, - - - - 75 His reception there— the Address and Answer, 76 Christian Religion — religious sects, &c. - 76 New-Brunswick— reception there, - 78 VIII* CONTENTS. PAGE NEW-YORK— 1st Entrance. New- York City — its political importance. %B President's reception in that place. - 80 Address of the Citizens and President's Answer. 81 of the Cincinnati Society and Answer, 05 Society for the Encouragement of Domestic Manufac- tures, - - - 87 President admitted as a Member, - - 99 Description of that place, commerce, &c. - 99 Steam-Boat navigation — Fulton, - 100 New-England — brief historical sketch of, 101 CONNECTICUT— 1st Entrance. NewHaven — President's reception there, 107 Yale University, notice s of the town, - 110 Passage from New-Haven to Middletown, 111 Middletown — reception of the President in that place, - - - 112 Description of the place, - - 113 Passage from Middletown to Hartford, - 114 Hartford — President's reception there, 114 Address of the citizens and President's Answer, 1 16 Description of the city, - - - 118 Deaf and Dumb Asylum, . - - 119 MASSACHUSETTS— 1st Entrance. Springfield — President's reception there, 121 Address ofthe Citizens, and notice of the place, 122 Shays' rebellion — manufacture of arms, - 123 Passage from Springfield to New-London, 124 CONNECTICUT— 2d Entrance. New-London — President's reception, Address and Answer, - 125 Benedict Arnold, brief sketch of him, - 131 Notice of this place, British squadron, &c. 132 Stonington — reception ofthe President there, 13S Notice of this place, and its valorous defence, 136 RHODE-ISLAND. Rhode-Island — sketch of this island, - "13f CONTENTS. IX* PAGE. Slave Trade, - - - - 136 Newport — arrival and reception of the President, and Address, - - - - 140 Sketch of this place, and its wanton destruction, 141 Ppovidence — Address of the citizens and the Presi- dent's Answer, - 142 Notice of this place ; Sketch of the settlement, &c. 143 MASSACHUSETTS— 2d Entrance. Passage from Providence to Boston, - 146 Boston — reception of the President there, Address of the Citizens, and President's reply, - 149 Address of the Minority of the Mass. Legislature, 153 The President's Answer, - - 157 Address of the Cincinnati, and President's Answer, 1 60 Charlestown — reception of the President, Address and Answer, - - 164 Harvard University — Address of the Corporation to the President, and his reply, - 166 Hon. John Adams, President's visit, &c. - 170 Description of Boston, political and commercial im- portance of, - - - 171 Bunker Hill— Battle of— Gen. Putnam, 173 Passage from Boston to Salem, - - 183 Salem — reception of the President there 134 Sketch of the town ; Quakers ; Cleopatra's barge, 188 Newburyport — arrival, reception of, and Address to the President in that place, - 189 Notice of the town, triumphal arches, &c. 193 NEW-HAMPSHIRE— 1st Entrance. Portsmouth — reception in that place, the Address of the citizens and answer of the President, 195 Notice of the place — Washington 74, - 198 DISTRICT OF MAINE.. Passage from Portsmouth to Portland, 199 Address upon the President's arrival in this district — remarks, - - - 201 Portland — reception there, Address of citizens, 206 Address from the Committee of Bath, &c. 211 X% CONTENTS. PAGL. The President's Answer, - - 212 Description of Portland, - - 213 Address of the Clergy and President's Answer, 215 NEW-HAMPSHIRE— 2d Entrance. Dover— reception there and address of Citizens, 217 Remarks upon the President's reception, &c. 219 Gov. Plumer's letter to the President, 219 Concord — arrival of the President there, 221 Notice of that place — remark, - 223 Passage from Concord to Hanover, - 223 Hanover — President's visit there, and Address of the citizens, - - 225 Dartmouth University, - - * 228 Mrs.Wheelock, - - 229 Quaker's reception of President, - 230 VERMONT. Notice ofthis State, - - - 230 Norwich — arrival there, and address of Citizens 231 Address of the citizens, and President s answer, 234 Windsor — Address from the Ladies to President and his reply, - - - 236 Sketch of the place, - - 237 Woodstock — Address of the Citizens, - 239 Notice of that place, - - • 240 Montpelier — arrival of President there, and Ad- dress of the Citizens, - - - 242 Notice of that pla^e, - - - 243 Burlington — arrival there — Address of the citi- zens, and President's Reply, - - 244 Burlington University, - - - 245 Lake Champlain — Capt. Macdonough, - 245 NEW- YORK— 2d Entrance. Plattsburgh — gallant defence of that place, 249 Fields fBattle, - - 250 Sketch of that place, - - - 251 Repast in the forest, - - 251 Ogdensburgh — Address of the citizens, 262 River St. Lawrence, - * • 254 CONTENTS. XI. PAGE. Passage to Sackett's Harbour, - - 255 Lake Ontario — Capt. Chauncey — Fleets, &c. 256 Sackett's Harbour — notice of that place, 257 Address of the Revolutionary veterans, and of the Citizens of Sackett's Harbour, - 258 Niagara — arrival at the fort, - - 260 Peninsula — battles of Chippewa and Bridgewater, 261 Buffaloe — importance of that place, - 262 Niagara falls, ... 262 Warfare by conflagration, - - 263 Respect from an enemy, - - 263 Lake Erie — Capt. Perry, - - 264 Detroit — surrender ofthat place — Gen. Hull, 264 President's Answer to the citizens' Address, 267 OHIO. Notice ofthat state, - - 26S American Savages, - - - 269 Lancaster — Address of the citizens, - 270 Passage from Lancaster to Chilicothe, - 272 Notice of this place, and the Address, - 273 Zanesville and Putnam — Address of Citizens, 274 Notice of these places, - - 278 Cannonsburgh — " seat of literature in the west," 278 Address of the faculty of Jeffers©n College, and the President's Answer, - - - 279 Pittsburgh — its situation, - - 282 The river Ohio, - - - 283 Address of the citizens of Pittsburgh, - 285 The President's Reply, - - - 286 Sketch of that place, - - - 287 MARYLAND— 2d Entrance. Hagerstown — Address of the citizens, - 291 Fredericktown — Address of the citizens, 292 Remark upon the President's Tour, - 293 Reception at Washington upon his return, 294 Address of citizens and President's reply, 296 Conclusion of 'Four, - 297 President's First Message, - - 3 j Conclusion of an account of First Tour, 315 XII. CONTENTS. PAGE, Second Tour of the President, 1818. - 319 Remarks upon his first Tour, - - 320 Assiduity of Rulers, - - - 321 President at Annapolis — Address of Citizens and his answer, - - - - 322 Chesapeake Bay, . _ . 325 President at Norfolk — Address of Citizens and his answer, - 326 Virginia, .... 330 President's Second Message, - - 331 James Monroe and Andrew Jackson, - 348 \ BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF THE LIFE OF JAMES MONROE, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, Biography and History occupy an important department in the libraries of gentlemen, soholars,and statesmen. By the one, the reader becomes acquaint- ed with the illustrious characters who have imparted glory to their native countries, and who have secured to themselves imperishable honour. By the other, he traces the progress of events which have elevated different countries to the acme of human glory, or sunk them to the lowest depths of degradation. The Ame- rican Republic has, for the last half century, been the theatre of events, and the nursery of men, the his- tory of which, and the lives of whom, would have added lustre to the most brilliant pages of ancient or modern history. The impressive ejaculation cf an inspired penman — " Our fathers, where are they . ? " may well be repeated by Americans in the nineteenth cen- tury. The members of the Old Congress, (" I name them fill'd with solemn awe") are, the most of them, reaping the reward of their patriotic labours in eter- nity. But how little does the rising generation know of their gigantic labours, and their splendid talents ? We enjoy the rich legacy they bestowed upon their country ; but their memories are almost obliterated by B 14 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH, the admiration excited by their successors, and the as- tonishment occasioned by succeeding events. Had America had her Plutarch, it would not have been so. Instead of devoting attention to the men and the events of ancient time, the youth of our Republic would be enraptured while they hung, with assiduous devotion, upon the pnges that recorded the labours of their grandsires in the cabinet, and their exploits in the field. The unceasing industry and exalted talents of a Marshall, has preserved to Americans the me- mory of their great political father, GEORGE WASH- INGTON. The unrivalled genius of a Wirt has embalmed the memory of Patrick Henry. It is from such scholars, that we may hope hereafter to be grati- fied with a Biography of JAMES MONROE, President of the United States. It must be the history of his country, during the long period of his active life, and various official stations, for they are identified with each other. It is with the deepest solicitude, that I attempt a mere sketch of the life of this great man. That the sources from which I have derived the information I possess upon this subject, so deeply interesting to the citizens of our Republic, are authentic, I have the most confident reliance. JAMES MONROE, the fifth President of the United States, was born in the county of Westmoreland, in the state of Virginia, and upon the banks of the Potomac, in the year 1759. A century and an half previous, his ancestor migrated to the Western world, and was the original grantee of the soil upon which his illustrious descendant was born. He was educated at the ancient University of William and Mary. His residence in BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 15 academic bowers, while it initiated him into the bound- less fields of science and literature, did not render him effeminate. In 1776, when his threatened and en- dangered country called upon her sons to leave the peaceable employment of agriculture, and the delight- ful indulgence of literary pursuits, to endure the toil and privations of " the tented field," the gallant Men- roe joined the embattled ranks of his countrymen., un- der the command of the celebrated general Mercer, who fell at Princeton. He was appointed a lieutenant in Col. Weedon's regiment — repaired with it to New- York, and joined the army under the command of Gen- eral Washington. At the battle of Jlcerlam Heights, he first faced a veteran enemy. He fought in the bat- i.le of White Plains, and was one who followed the ap- parently desperate fortune of Washington, in the de- sponding retreat through New Jersey. Although a youth of seventeen, he was not dismayed at the gloomy prospects that were before him and his beloved coun- try. While many of the troops were leaving the stand- ard of the Chief, and many citizens were joining the ranks of the enemy, Lieutenant Monroe remained true to his commander, to his country, and to his God. The time was at hand when he was to spend his blood, and all but lose his life for his country. The 26th of December, 1776, was a day memorable in the annals of the revolutionary struggle. The pre ceding night was as dark, gloomy, and horrible, as the foreboding destiny of Washington and his devoted fol lowers. Like the night that preceded the fall of Caesar, the elements seemed to be at war. The roaring of the storm, the rattling of the hail, and the concussions pro- 16 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. duced by the tumbling of ice in the rapid current of the Delaware, would have appalled any hearts but those of republican soldiers. The Delaware was cross- ed — the British post was surprised — their commander was slain, and his army were captured. '• The victory ef Trenton" operated upon disheartened Americans like a shock of electricity upon a morbid system. The particulars of the battle, and the part taken in it by Lieutenant Monroe, I extract from Wilkinson's Memoirs, vol. i. p. 129. " It was now broad day, and the storm beat violent- ly in our faces ; the attack had commenced on the left, and was immediately answered by Col. Stark in our front, who forced the enemy's picket, and pressed into the town ; our column being close at his heels. The enemy made a momentary shew of resistance, by a wild and undirected fire from the windows of their quarters, which they abandoned as we advanced, and made an attempt to form in the main street, which might have succeeded, but for a six gun battery opened by Capt. T. Forest, under the immediate order of Gen. Washington, at the head of King's street, which annoy- ed the enemy in various directions ; and the decision of Capt. William Washington, who, seconded by Lieu- tenant James Monroe, (now President of the United States,) led the advanced guard of the left column, perceiving that the enemy were endeavouring to form a battery — rushed forward, drove the artillerists from *heir guns, and took two pieces in the act of firing. These officers were both wounded in the charge ; the Captain in the wrist, the Lieutenant through the shoul- der. These particulur acts of gallantry have never fciOGRAPHICAL SKETCH, 17 been noticed, and yet they could not have been loo highly appreciated ; for if the enemy had got his artillery into operation, in a narrow street, it might have checked our movement, and given him time to form and reflect : and if he had retired across the bridge in his rear, and taken post, he would have placed a defile between us, which, in our half naked, half frozen condition, he ought to have defended against our utmost efforts ; and we in turn might have been compelled to retreat, which would have been fatal to ws." Lieutenant Monroe lingered long with his wounds, and barely survived them. His subsequent military life must be rapidly glanced over. For his consum* mate bravery in the battle of Trenton, he was promo- ted to a captaincy : and was soon after selected by Lord Stirling as his Aid-de-Camp. In this capacity. he served with this gallant friend of America, in the campaign of 1777 and 1778. With him he fought in the battles of Brandy wine, Germant own and Monmouth, and the survivors remember him with affectionate attachment. He was soon after appointed to the com- mand of a regiment to be raised in Virginia, having se- cured the esteem, and having received the highest re- commendation of Washington. Subsequent events pre- vented the raising of the regiment, and Col. Monrof. remained in his native state. He commenced the study of law under the direction of one of his illustrious predecessors, Thomas Jeffer- son. But his native state was soon after invaded - and he volunteered his service in the militia. In 1780, he was appointed by^Mr, Jefferson, then gover- nor of Virginia, as a military commissioner, and visited B % i8 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. the southern army in that capacity. His conduct it;, this important trust, met with undivided approbation. Col. Monroe, near the close of the revolutionary war, commenced his legislative and diplomatic career. It would require volumes to go into details. As, in a military capacity, he fought in the most disastrous pe- riods of the great struggle for Independence : so, when he was, at the termination of it, invested with official functions in civil life, involving the highest responsibili- ty, he had difficulties to encounter which nothing but the most matured judgment could obviate j nothing but the most consummate prudence surmount. He might have said then, as he did in his Inaugural Speech, as President — u From a just Responsibility , I shall never shrink ;" for his whole civil life has been a practical comment upon this declaration. At the age of twenty three, (1782,) he was elected m a member of the house of commons in Virginia, and by that body, in the same year, appointed a member of the executive council. In 1783 he was elected a mem- ber of the Areopagus of America — ' the Old Congress.* He was probably the youngest member of that august body. To be surrounded by the hoary sages of the Republic, and to take a part in deliberations, the most inteiesting that ever monopolized the solemn attention of a human tribunal, surely must have excited all his solicitude, and aroused all his vigilance. At the close of the war, the thirteen states were held together by nothing but that feeble bond of union " The Old Confederation.'* The small states were jealous of the power of the larger ones ; the large states thought it humiliation to be reduced to an equal- BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 19- sty with the smaller ones. Mr. Monroe, with the sa- gacity of a statesman, early foresaw the calamities that would befal the confederated states for the want of a national authority. A consolidated government had some powerful advocates, but was resisted by an im- mense majority of the people of the Republic. In 1786, he introduced a motion to vest in Congress the power of regulating the commercial concerns of all the states. This motion, according to the journals of the old Congress, was frequently discussed. It was the germ of our inimitable constitution which was after- wards adopted. Virginia, the native state of Mr. Monroe, and then the largest in territory and population in the union, proposed to cede to Congress her territory beyond the Ohio, on condition that no states should be incorpora- ted in it beyond certain prescribed limits. He intro- duced and obtained the adoption of a resolution in Congress recommending to that state to make an un- conditional grant, and the state acceded to the proposi- tion. At about this period, serious controversies began to arise between some of the states in regard to their territorial limits. Conflicting claims between indepen- dent states, in relation to their boundaries, uniformly assume an hostile aspect. Disputes of this kind have caused centuries of war, and have inundated the con- tested territory in blood. Congress, with the solici- tude of a parent to heal the contentions of his children, interposed all the authority that body of gigantic states- men then possessed, to produce mutual concessions and cordial conciliation. The eyes of Congress were 20 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. fixed upon Mr. Monroe as a suitable member of a high tribunal to adjust these controversies. His appoint- ment met with the cordial approbation of the contend- in' Washington, March 5th, 1817, THE INAUGURATION. Under the auspices of a delightful day, yesterday took place the interesting ceremony attendant on the entrance of the President elect of the United States, on the duties of his arduous station. The ceremony and the spectacle was simple, but grand, animating, and impressive. At half after 1 1 o'clock, the President, with him the Vice President elect, left his private residence, at- tended by a large cavalcade of citizens on horseback, marshalled by the gentlemen appointed to that duty. The President reached the Congress Hall a little before 12 ; at the same time the Ex-President arrived, and the Judges of the Supreme Court. All having en- tered the Chamber of the Senate, then in session, the D 2 42 ELECTION, &Ce Vice President took the chair, and the oath of office wa,: administered to him. A pertinent address was deliver ed on the occasion by the Vice-President. The ceremony having ended, the Senate adjourned, and the President and Vice-President, the Judges of -the Supreme Court, the Senate generally, the Mar- shals, &c. attended the President to the elevated Porti- co, temporarily erected for the occasion, where, in the presence of an immense concourse of officers of the government, foreign officers, strangers, (ladies as well as gentlemen) and citizens, the President rose and de- livered the following SPEECH : I should be destitute of feeling, if I was not deeply affected by the strong pxoof which my fellow citizens have given me of their confidence in calling me to the high office, whose functions I am about to assume. As the expression of their good opinion of my conduct in the public service, 1 deiive from it a gratification, which those who are conscious of having done all that they could to merit it, can alone feel. My sensibility is increased by a just estimate of the importance of the trust, and of the nature and extent of its duties ; with the proper discharge of which, the highest interests of a great and free people are intimately connected. Conscious of my own deficiency, 1 cannot enter on those duties without great anxiety for the result. — From a just responsibility I shall never shrink ; cal- culating with confidence, that in my best efforts to pro- mote the public welfare, my motives will be duly ap- preciated, and my conduct be viewed with that can- dour and indulgence, which I have experienced in oth- er stations. In commencing the duties of the chief executive office it has been the practice of the distinguished men who have gone before me, to explain the principles wl.ich would govern them in their respective administration? ELBCTION, &C» 43 in following their venerated examples, my attention is naturally drawn to the great causes which have con- tributed, in a principal degree, to produce the present happy condition of the United States. They will best explain the nature of our duties, and shed much light on the policy which ought to be pursued in future. From the commencement of our revolution to the present day, almost forty years have elapsed, and from the establishment of this constitution, twenty-eight. Through this whole term, the government has been, what may emphatically be called self-government ; and what has been the effect ? To whatever object we turn our attention, whether it relates to our foreign or do- mestic concerns, we find abundant cause to felicitate ourselves in the excellence of our institutions. Dur- ing a period, fraught with difficulties, and marked by very extraordinary events, the United States have flourished beyond example — The citizens, individually,, have been happy, and the nation prosperous. Under this constitution, our commerce has been wisely regulated with foreign nations, and between the states ; new states have been admitted into our Union ; our territory has been enlarged, by fair and honour- able treaty, and with great advantage to the original states ; the states, respectively, protected by the national government, under a mild parental system, against foreign dangers, and enjoying, within their sep- arate spheres, by a wise partition of power, a just pro- portion of the sovereignty, have improved their police, extended their settlements, and attained a strength and maturity which are the best proof of wholesome laws, well administered. And if we look to the condition of individuals, what a proud spectacle does it exhibit ! On whom has oppression fallen in any quarter of our Union ? Who has been deprived of any right of person or property ? Who restrained from offering his vows, in the mode which he prefers, to the Divine Author of his being ? It is well known, that all these blessings have been enjoyed in their fullest extent ; and I add, with peculiar satisfaction, that there has been no ex- ample of a capital punishment being inflicted on u^y oi*e for the crime of high treason. 44 ELECTION, &C. Some, who might admit the competency of our gov- ernment to these beneficent duties, might doubt it in trials which put to the test its strength and efficiency, as a member of the great community of nations. Here, too, experience has afforded us the most satisfactory proof in its favor. Just as this constitution was put into action several of the principal powers of Europe had become much ngitated, and some of them seri- ously convulsed. Destructive wars ensued, which have, of late only, been terminated. In the course of these conflict*, the United States received great injury from several of the parties. It was their interest to stand aloof from the contest ; to demand justice from the party committing the injury ; and to cultivate, by a fair and honourable conduct, the friendship of all. War became at length inevitable, and the result has shewn, that our government is equal to the greatest of trials, under the most unfavourable circumstances. Of the virtue of the people, and of the heroic exploits of the army, the navy, and of the militia, 1 need not speak. Such, then, is the happy government under which we live ; a government adequate to every purpose for which the social compact is formed ; a government elective in all its branches, under which every citizen may, by his merit, obtain the highest trust recognized by the constitution ; which contains within it no cause of discord ; none to put at variance one portion of the community with another ; a government which pro- tects every citizen in the full enjoyment of his rights^ and is able to protect the nation against injustice from foreign powers. Other considerations of the highest importance ad- monish us to cherish our union, and to cling to the government which supports it. Fortunate as we are in our political institutions, we have not been less so in other circumstances, on which our prosperity and happiness essentially depend. Situated within the tem- perate zone, and extending through many degrees of latitude along the Atlantic, the United States enjo> all the varieties of climate, and every production incident to f ELECTION, &C. 4^> that portion of the globe. Penetrating internally, to the great lakes, and beyond the sources of the great rivers which communicate through our whole interior, no country was ever happier with respect to its do- main. Blessed too with a fertile soil, our produce has always been very abundant, leaving, even in years the Seast favourable, a surplus for the wants of our fellow men in other countries. Such is our peculiar felicit}% that there is not a part of our union that is not partic- ularly interested in preserving it. The great agricul- tural interest of the nation prospers under its protection. Local interests are not less fostered by it. Our fellow citizens of the north, engaged in navigation, find great encouragement in being made the favoured carriers of the vast productions of the other portions of the. United States, while the inhabitants of these are amply recom- pensed, in their turn, by the nursery for seamen and naval force, thus formed and reared up for the support of our common rights. Our manufactures find a gene- rous encouragement by the policy which patronizes domestic industry ; and the surplus of our produce, a steady and profitable market by local wants, in less fa- voured parts, at home. Such, then, being the highly favoured condition of our country, it is the interest of every citizen to main- tain it. What are the dangers which menace us? If any exist, they ought to -be ascertained and guarded against. In explaining my sentiments on this subject, it may be asked ; what raised us to the present happy <-tate ? How did we accomplish the revolution ? How remedy the defects of the first instrument of our union, by in- fusing into the national government sufficient power for aational purposes, without impairing the just rights of the states, or affecting those of individuals ? How sus- tain, and pass with glory through the late war ? The government has been in the hands of ihe people. To the people, therefore, and to the faithful and able de- positories of their trust, is the credit due. Had the people of the United States been educated in different principles j had they been less intelligent, less inde- 46 ELECTIOxV, &C, pendent, or less virtuous, can it be believed that we should have maintained the same steady and consistent career, or been blessed with the same success ? While then the constituent body retains its present sound and healthful state, every thing will be safe. They will choose competent and faithful representatives for every department. It is only when the people become igno- rant and corrupt ; when they degenerate into a popu- lace, that they are incapable of exercising the sove- reignty. Usurpation is then an easy attainment, and a usurper soon found. The people themselves become the willing instruments of their own debasement and ruin. Let us then look to the great cause, and en- deavour to preserve it in full force. Let us, by all wise and constitutional measures, promote intelligence among the people, as the best means of preserviug our liberties. Dangers from abroad are not less deserving ofatten* tion. Experiencing the fortune of other nations, the United States may be again involved in war, and it nay in that event be the object of the adverse party to over- set our government, to break our union, and demolish, us as a nation. Our distance from Europe, and the just, moderate, and pacific policy of our government, may form some security against these dangers, but they ought to be anticipated and guarded against. Many of our citizens are engaged in commerce and navigation, and all of them are in a certain degree dependent on their prosperous state. Many are engaged in the fish- eries. These interests are exposed to invasion in the wars between other powers, and we should disregard the faithful admonitions of experience if we did not expect it. We must support our rights or lose our character, and with it, perhaps, our liberties. A peo- ple who fail to do it, can scarcely be said to hold a place among independent nations. National honour is national property of the highest value. The sentiment in the mind of every citizen, is national strength. It ought therefore to be cherished. $ To secure us ag-unst these dangers, our coast and in- land frontiers should be fortified, our army and navy ELECTION, &C. 47 regulated upon just principles as to the force of each, be kept in perfect order, and our militia be placed on the best practicable footing ; to put our extensive coast in such a state of defence, as to secure our cities and interior from invasion, will be attended with expense, but the work, when finished, will be permanent, and it is fair to presume, that a single campaign or invasion, by a naval force superior to our own, aided by a few thousand land troops, would expose us to greater ex- pense, without taking into the estimate the loss of pro- perty, and distress of our citizens, than would be suffi- cient for this great work. Our land and naval forces should be moderate, but adequate to the necessary purposes. The former to garrison and preserve our fortifications, and to meet the first invasions of a foreign foe ; and while constituting the elements of a greater force, to preserve the science, as well as all the ne- cessary implements of war, in a state to be brought into activity in the event of war. The latter retained with- in the limits proper in a state of peace, might aid in maintaining the neutrality of the United States with dignity in the wars of other powers, and in saving the property of their citizens from spoliation. In time of war, with the enlargement of which the great naval re- sources of the country render it susceptible, and which should be duly fostered in time of peace, it would con- tribute essentially both as an auxiliary of defence, and as a powerful engine of annoyance, to diminish the ca- lamities of war, and to bring the war to a speedy and honourable termination. But it should always be held prominently in view, that the safety of these states, and of every thing dear to a free people, must depend in an eminent degree on the militia. Invasions may be made, too formidable to be resisted by any land and naval force, which it would comport, either with the principles of our government, or the circumstances of the United States to maintain. In such cases, recourse must be had to the great body of the people, and in a manner to produce the best ef- fect. It is of the highest importance, therefore, that they be so organized and trained as to be prepared for 4S ELECTION, &€. any emergency. The arrangement should be such, ab to put at the command of the government, the ardem patriotism and youthful vigour of the country. If formed on equal and just principles, it cannot be op- pressive. It is the crisis which makes the pressure, and not the laws, which provide a remedy for it. This arrangement should be formed, too, in time of peace, to be the better prepared for war. With such an organ ization, of such a people, the United States have no- thing to dread from foreign invasion. At its approach, an overwhelming force of gallant men might always be put in motion. Other interests of high importance will claim atten- tion, among which the improvement of our country by roads and canals, proceeding always with a constitu- tional sanction, holds a distinguished place. By thu9 facilitating the intercourse between the states, we shall add much to the convenience and comfort of our fel- low-citizens ; much to the ornament of the country : and, what is of greater importance, we shall shorten distances, and by making each part more accessible to and dependent on the other, we shall bind the union more closely together. Nature has done so much for us by intersecting the country with so many great riv- ers, bays, and lakes, approaching from distant point?, so near to each other, that the inducement to complete the work seems to be peculiarly strong. A more interest- ing spectacle was perhaps never seen than is exhibited within the limits of the United States ; a territory so vast, and advantageously situated, containing objects so grand, so useful, so happily connected in all their parts. Our manufactures will likewise req.iire the system- atic and fostering care of the government. Possessing, as we do, all the raw materials, the fruit of our own soil and industry, we ought not to depend in the degree we have done on supplies from other countries. While we are thus dependent, the sudden event of war, un- sought and unexpected, cannot fail to plunge us into the most serious difficulties. It is important, too, that the capital which nourishes our manufactures should be domestic, as its influence in that case, instead of ex- ELECTION, && 49 bausting, as it may do in foreign hands, would be felt advantageously on agricultural, and every otherbranch of industry. Equally important it is to provide at: home a market for our raw materials, as by extending the competition, it will enhance the price, and pro- tect the cultivator against the casunlities incident to foreign markets. With the Indian tribes, it is our duty to cultivate friendly relations, and to act with kindness and liberal- ity in all our transactions. Equally proper it is to per- severe in our efforts to extend to them the advantages of civilization. The great amount of our revenue, and the flourish- ing state of the treasury, are a full proof of the com- petency of the national resources, for any emergency, as they are, of the willingness of our fellow citizens to bear the burthens which the public necessities re- quire. The vast amount of vacant lands, the value of which daily augments, forms an additional resource of great extent and duration.' These resources, besides accomplishing every other necessary purpose, put it completely in the power of the United States, to dis- charge the national debt, at an early period. Peace is the best time for improvement and preparation of eve- ry kind ; it is in peace that our commerce flourishes most ; that taxes are most easily paid, and that the re- venue is most productive. The executive is charged officially, in the depart- ments under it, with the disbursement of the public money, and is responsible for the faithful application of it to the purpose* for which it is raised. The leois- lature is the watchful guardian over the public purse. It is its duty to see that the disbursement has been hon- estly made. To meet the requisite responsibility, ev- ery facility should be afforded to the executive to en- able it to bring the public agents, entrusted with the public money, strictly and promptly to account. No- thing should be presumed against them. But if, with the requisite facilities, the public money is suffered to lie, long and uselessly, in their hands, they will not be the only defaulters, nor will the demoralizing effect be E 50 ELECTION, &C. confined to them. — It will evince a relaxation, and want of tone in the administration, w 7 hich will be felt by the whole community. I shall do all I can, to secure econ- omy and fidelity in this important branch of the admin- istration, and 1 doubt not, that the Legislature will per- form its duty with equal zeal. A thorough examina- tion should be regularly made, and I will promote it. It is particularly gratifying to me, to enter on the discharge of these duties, at a time when the United States are blessed with peace. It is a state most con- sistent with their prosperity and happiness. It will be my sincere desire to preserve it, so far as depends on the Executive, onjustprinciples, with all nations, claim- ing nothing unreasonable, of any, and rendering to each what is its due. Equally gratifying is it, to witness the increased har- mony of opinion, which pervades our Union. Discord does not belong to our system. Union is recommended, as well by the free and benign principles of our gov- ernment, extending its blessings to every individual, as by the other eminent advantages attending it. The Ame- rican people have encountered together great dangers, and sustained ?evere trials with success. They consti- tute one great family, with a common interest. Expe- rience has enlightened us, on some questions of essen- tial importance to the country. The progress has been slow, dictated by a just reflection, and a faithful regard to every interest connected with it. To promote this harmony, in accord with the principles of our republi- can government, and in a manner to give them the most camplete eftect, and to advance in all other respects the best interests of our Union, will be the object of mv constant and zealous exertions. Never did a government commence under auspices so favourable, nor ever was success so complete. If we look to the history of other nations, ancient or modern, we find no example of a growth so rapid, so gigantic ; of a people so prosperous and happy. In contemplating what we have still to perform, the heart of every citizen must expand with joy, when he re- flects how near our government has approached to ELECTION, &C. 51 perfection ; that, in respect to it, we have no essential improvement to make ; that the great object is, to pre- serve it in the essential principles and features which characterize it; and that is to be done, by preserving the virtue and enlightening the minds of the people ; and as a security against foreign dangers, to adopt such arrangements as are indispensable to the support of our Independence, our Rights, and Liberties. If we per- severe in the career in which we have advanced so far, and in the path already traced, we cannot fail, un- der the favour of a gracious providence, to attain the digh destiny which seems to await us. In the administrations of the illustrious men who have preceded me in this high station, with some of whom I have been connected by the closest ties from early life, examples are presented, which will always be found highly instructive and useful to their succes- sors. From these I shall endeavour to derive all the advantages which they may atford. Of my immediate predecessor, under whom so important a portion of this great and successful experiment has been made, i shall be pardoned for expressing my earnest wishes, that he may long enjoy, in his retirement, the affec* tions of a grateful country, the best reward of exalted talents, and the most faithful and meritorious services. Relying on the aid to be derived from the other de- partments of the government, I enter on the trust to which I have been called by the suffrages of my fellow- citizens, with my fervent prayers to the Almighty, that He will be graciously pleased to continue to us that protection which he has already so conspicuously dis- mayed in our favour. JAMES MONROE. Having concluded his address, the oath of office was administered to him by the Chief Justice of the Uni- ted States. The oath was announced by a single gun. and followed by salutes from the Navy Yard and the battery ; from Fort Warburton, and from several pie ces of artillery on the ground. The President was received on his arrival, with mi- 52 ELECTION, &C. liiary honours, by the Marine Corps, by the George- town Riflemen, a company of Artillery and two com panies of Infantry from Alexandria ; and on his return was saluted in like manner. It is impossible to compute with any thing like accu- racy the number of carriages, horses, and persons pre- sent. Such a concourse was never before seen in Washington ; the number of persons present being es- timated from five to eight thousand. The mildness and radiance of the day cast a brilliant hue on the com- plexion of the whole ceremony ; and it is satisfactory to say, that we heard of no accident during the day, notwithstanding the magnitude of the assemblage. The President and his Lady, after his return, re ceived at their dwelling the visits of their friends, of the Heads of Departments, most of the Senators and Representatives, of all the Foreign Ministers at the seat of government, of strangers and citizens, who also generally paid the tribute of their unabated respect to Mr. and Mrs. Madison. The evening concluded with a splendid ball at Da- vis' Hotel ; at which were present the President and Ex-President and their Ladies, the Heads of Depart- ments, Foreign Ministers, and an immense throng of strangers and citizens. Thus has commenced the administration of James Monroe. In the utmost warmth of our good wishes, we cannot wish him a more honourable, a more grate- ful termination of his official life, than that which has crowned the administration of James Madison. The principles developed in his Inaugural Speech, are such as, adhered to, will triumphantly bear him through. They are those of the honest Republican, ELECTION, &C. &3 and at the same time the practical statesman. They afford us the highest presage of an upright and unso phislicated administration of the puhlic affairs, on the solid principles of the constitution, as regulated by rea- son, and tempered by the wisdom of experience. I cannot dismiss this subject without adding the fol- lowing article from a Dublin paper. It evinces the acknowledged eloquence of Irishmen, and shows that while they are groaning in the agony of bondage them- selves, they can justly appreciate the unparalleled blessings enjoyed by Americans. " The American papers furnish us with the inaugu- ral speech of the next President, Mr. Monroe. This is a document of very considerable interest. It is im- possible to read it without admiring the wisdom and ta- lents of the speaker. The President boasts that the United States is the happiest nation that now exists, or ever did exist in the world. We believe it ; and if it be the fact, what a high place among the benefactors of mankind, will the future historian bestow upon the il- lustrious predecessors of James Monroe, the Washing- tons, the Jeffersons, and the Madisons. " Fortunate America ! Proceed in your glorious ca- reer. From your progress the nations of the earth will derive the most instructive lesson that has ever yet been held out to them. Guided by counsels of wisdom, firmness, and moderation, America will be in reality " the great nation ;" whose existence wjll not depend on the event of a single campaign in the war ; the bulk of whose people will not in peace be composed of a wretched, half fed, uneducated, depraved and de- graded populace. E2 ?4 ELECTION, &C* '* Who does not see in the distance, the fast ap- proaching mightiness of this youthful empire, but now emerging from infancy ; the creation of our own day, the growth of a few years !'* The following extempore address was made to a small party, upon March 4th, 1817. Fellow Citizens — This day completes twenty eight years since our republican government has been in operation. Eight of those years the political Saviour of his country, the father of republicans, George Wash- ington, wielded the sceptre of political power. " Mod- ern Degeneracy" could not reach this immaculate re- publican. For four years we were under the admin- istration of John Adams, a statesman in theory, and now a practical republican, After him, arose the splendid sun of republicanism — Thomas Jefferson — his friends were the friends of benevolence ; in him, they recog- nized the man who was willing to devote his great mind, to the service of his great country. His successor, James Madison, united in himself the cool, reflect- ing philosopher, with the honest and patriotic statesman. This day places James Monroe in the chair of State — he tills the highest station allotted toman — how contempti- ble appear the thrones of legitimate sovereigns, filled by kings who encumber them by the accident of birth, when compared with the Presidential chair of nineteen republican states, occupied by a patriot placed thereon, by the intelligent voice of ten millions of freemen. On this occasion let me propose a toast : JAMES MONROE — As he is this day placed upon the highest station on earth, may bis administration evince to the world that he is able to fill it. TOUR, &c. TO behold the Supreme Magistrate of a great and growing people, leaving the seat of government, where he might have enjoyed repose, the society and inter- course of the highest officers of his Cabinet, and the most eminent statesmen of his country ; where he might have been favoured with the presence of foreign ministers, representing the leading nations of the world ; to see him leaving these enjoyments, to endure the fa- tigues, and, at times, the privations of exploring the country over which he is called to preside, is a scene which is seldom witnessed, and cannot be viewed but with the liveliest interest. Most of the potentates who encumber thrones by the accident of princely birth, or the aid of abused power, moulder away life in gorgeous palaces, and enervate their minds by unceasing volup- tuousness. They live in ignorance of their subjects, r r their wants, and of their injuries ; and are so doubt- ful of their fidelity, that fear conceals them from their view. Scarcely dare they travel the capitals where they reside, without an army in miniature to protect them from assaults from their own subjects. Not so with the President of the United States of Ame- rica. When the dictates of duty, or the calls of incli- nation induces him to explore any portion of the im- mense country over which he is appointed to preside^ 66 president's tour. so far from apprehending danger from his fellow-citi- zens, he is sure to be welcomed by them with the joy- ous acclamations of attachment. A splendid equipage and a numerous retinue will attract the observation of the world. Like the passing meteor, it will excite the admiration of some, the wonder of others, and the at- tention of all. The traveller is forgotten in the impos- ing splendour that surrounds him. When James Monroe projected a Tour through the Northern and Eastern States, he did not wish to make it an excursion of splendid pleasure and evanescent amusement, but of business and observation ; and chose rather to see than to be seen. He had been elect- ed and inaugurated as President of the United States. He must have been deeply impressed with the " mag- nitude of the undertaking" He must have known that it was an arduous task to fill the chair that had been previously occupied by Washington, Adams, Jeffer- son, and Madison. He knew he had a duty of no trif- ling nature to perform ; that he was called to preside over an intelligent people, enjoying the only well con- stituted Republic upon earth ; that this people were ever jealous of their political rights, and not always grateful to theii best benefactors. He knew, full well, that he was in a station different from that of a despotic prince whose will is law ; and that he was accountable for every act of his Presidential power to the people who authorized him to exercise it. The man who seeks his own tranquillity and emolu- ment, in preference to the happiness and wealth of his country, would certainly have avoided a station where the utmost rectitude is rewarded but by "faint president's tour. 6? praise," and where the least deviation from popular opinion is condemned by " curses, not only deep, but hud;" where miscarriage is certain to meet with con- demnation, and the most punctilious regard to duty can scarcely hope to be rewarded with approbation. Our present Chief Magistrate needed not to fill the exalted station which he now adorns, to add to the reputation which he had previously acquired ; a reputation ac- quired, not by a single fortunate act, but by a continu- ed series of important duties. His fellow-citizens had seen him, in civil life, rising from a common magis- trate, to the high office of Secretary of State ; m a mi- litary life, from a subaltern in the army, to the office of Secretary at War. Nor were his duties confined to the home department. When diplomatic science became necessary to settle the jarring interests between the American Republic and the court of France, they had traced him there in the capacity of an Ambassador, When his native country, the second in the world in commercial consequence, was contending with theirs? upon commercial principles, they followed him to the court of Saint James in the same capacity. When Madison was about to retire from the Presidential chair, the anxious eyes of ten millions of Freemen were cast upon him as the practical, as well as the the- oretical statesman. By an unanimity almost without a parallel, he was called to the exalted station of Presi- dent of the United States. Well might he have wished to retire to the peaceful and tranquil shades of private life, after a long course of labour devoted to the public service ; but he did not shrink from the high responsi- bility of this important station when called to fill it 7^ d8 PRESIDENT'S TOUR. As soon as the, necessary arrangements could be made at the seat of government, he contemplated a Tour through an important section of the union ; a section which, during the revolutionary struggle, achieved deeds of glory unrivalled in Grecian or Roman history, and which, during the second war for American Inde- pendence , was assailed in almost every point by a foe, who considers America as her most dangerous rival. The Northern and Eastern States, being exposed to the incursions of a British Army by land, and by a for- eign Fleet from the ocean, the President deemed it ex- pedient and necessary to have an occular view of a sec- tion of the Union thus exposed. With the eye of a Scholar, he could view it in the progress that had been made in the arts and sciences — as a Statesman, he could estimate its consequences in a political point of view ; and, as a Soldier, he could devise the best means for its defence against an enemy. Having these important objects in view, he thought little of the gratification of fancy ; and chose rather, in a plain unostentatious man- ner to examine the country for the purpose of advan- cing its real interest, than, nith magnificent equipage to excite the unmeaning admiration of its inhabitants. He selected for his companion in his travels the Chief Engineer of the United States, Gen. Joseph G. Swift. It had been announced in the leading prints of the un- ion, that the President had resolved to travel in the most private manner, that he might the better accom- plish the object of his Tour. Having long been a wit- ness of the splendour and magnificence of European courts ; having noticed a disposition in his countrymen to imitate the gorgeous and splendid parade of Europe* president's tour. 59 an nobility, and knowing that a devotion to it was to- tally incompatible with the discharge of important pub- lic duties, he determined to avoid it. However gratify- ing it may be to a chief magistrate who owes his exal- tation to the suffrages of an intelligent people, to be re- ceived by that people in. a cordial manner, and to hear from them the unequivocal expressions of their appro- bation, Mr. Monroe was sensible that the public man- ifestation of it in the numerous large towns through which his duty led him to pass would tend to divert his attention from the great objects of his tour. He wish- ed to avoid it, but it was a wish that could not be gra- tified. His fellow citizens, in almost every section of the country, had manifested their admiration for the heroes of the Army and Navy. Their presence had called forth the highest manifestation of their feeling6, by public celebrations, public feasts, and the bestowment of tokens of approbation. The swords that are worn by their sides, or that are deposited with their ar- chives, have stamped upon them evidence of the gra- titude of their countrymen. The services of plate that ornament their boards, have been presented as rewards for their valour. Americans well know that the De- partment of State and the Department of War, were both managed by James Monroe, during the most splendid campaign recorded in history. When he became Pres- ident, and was about to explore an important section of his native country, his fellow citizens could not be re- strained from showing him some evidence of their at- tachment. His elevated rank precluded them from be- stowing any token of their respect but that of hearts glowing with patriotic fervour, and pouring forth their gratitude to their political father» tfO PRESIDENT'S TOUR. When about to leave the seat of government, hal- lowed by the name of the political saviour of America, he beheld the City of Washington rising into conse- quence. He had explored its site when a wilderness ; he then saw it adorned with the finest specimens of modern architecture. He beheld the Capitol, the pride of his countrymen, and the admiration of the world, rising, like a phoenix, out of the ashes of Van- dal warfare, with redoubled splendour. He beheld the majestic Potomack, which had recently been visited by a squadron of a hostile and barbarous foe, now whiten- ed by American canvas. He might contemplate this as the permanent seat of government of the rising Re- public of America. Local interest and sectional par- tiality, have sometimes induced a wish that the gov- ernment might be removed from the place which Washington selected as the most eligible one for its permanent establishment. The partial destruction of it during the last war, was used as an argument in favor of a removal. It may be answered with the remark, that, to remove the seat of government from the place where the nation, by her beloved Chief and her rep- resentatives had established it, merely because an ene- my, in open violation of the established rules of civilized warfare, had partially demolished it, would be gratify- ing the wishes of an insolent foe, and surrendering the national dignity. Since this part of the work was written, the Presi- dent has presented to Congress his first Message, from which, with the highest pleasure, I extract the follow- ing remarks : •■ Most nations have taken an interest and a pride president's tour. t>! m the improvement and ornament of their metropolis, md none were more conspicuous in that respect than the ancient Republics. The policy which dictated the establishment of a permanent residence for the nation- al government, and the spirit in which it was commen- ced, and has been prosecuted, show that such improve- ment was thought worthy the attention of this nation. Its central position between the northern and southern extremes of our union, and its approach to the west, at the head of a navigable river, which interlocks with the western waters, prove the wisdom of the councils which established it." Washington is situated at the junction of the Poto- mack and the Eastern Branch. The plan of it*com- bines convenience, regularity, elegance of prospect* and a free circulation of air. It was established as the seat of government at the commencement of the pre- sent century. In 1810, it contained nearly 9000 in- habitants, and they have probably doubled since that period. The name of this city calls up the most endearing re- collections ; its situation embraces all the advantages and charms which nature can impart to an interior city ; and may it rise with the rising glory of the American Republic. The President, accompanied by Gen. Swift and Mr. Mason, his then private Secretar}', commenced hie Tour from this city upon the first day of June, 1817. He arrived in Baltimore upon the same day, being up- on the sabbath. This excited the indignation and call- ed forth the censure of many who are ready to form an opinion ©f a man's whole character from an accidental F t>2 president's tour. circumstance No doubt but that the due observation ol the sabbath is one of the means of supporting the good cause of Christianity. But persons in private stations, who can command times and seasons for their. own con- venience, and for the discharge of civil and religious duties, know little of the constant pressure of public of- fice ; they know little of the character of the President, who think he would wantonly outrage the reasonable scruples of piety, or unnecessarily depart from a usage established upon correct principles. His arrival in this place upon the sabbath, depended upon circumstances beyond his power to control. Let his accusers blush, when they are told that upon this very day he attended church. His approach to the place called forth every demonstration of respect and attachment from its citi- zens. It was the first place of consequence that he reached in his Tour, and the inhabitants set an honour- able example to all the rest of the large towns through which he might pass. It was impossible for the Presi- dent to be an unmoved spectator of the voluntary civility of the people, nor could he hear the spontaneous ac- clamations of the multitude, without reciprocating this impressive evidence of their esteem. Mere mechani- cal applause, and that which is extorted from a degraded populace, can afford but little satisfaction to the one who becomes the object of it ; but, for the political father of a great, a growing, and an intelligent people, freemen by birth, and resolved to be free, to witness such striking proofs of their fidelity and admiration, mu^t have made a deep, a lasting impression upon his mind. He must be something more or less than man, who would view such a scene with apathy and indifference. A Janizary of president's tour. 63 Turkey may offer up hosannahs to the Sultan, until the javelin the sultan wields ends his life and his plaudits at a stroke ;■* an eastern despot may be adored by his slaves who mingle groans of distress with the accents of praise ; European princes may be followed by a fam- ishing peasantry, whose huzzas are feeble from want of food ; but it is the happiness of the President of the United States to be thronged by an assemblage of happy freemen, acknowledging their gratitude to the only " le- gitimate" ruler of a great nation — legitimate, because he derives his power from the voice of the people he gov- erns. It is the happiness of the people of America, when they behold their Chief Magistrate come amongst them, to see a ruler who does not wield the rod of des- potic power, but the sceptre of republican authority. The following is the manner of his reception at Bal- timore ; the address there received, and the 'answer returned. This took place upon the second day of June, 1817. " On his arrival, several of the aged and most res- pectable citizens attended the President, and welcom- ed his appearance in Baltimore. In the afternoon he attended divine service at the Rev. Dr. Inglis' church ; and early the next morning, before breakfast, accom paniedby Generals Smith, Strieker, Winder, Swift, and several other military gentlemen, visited the ground where general Ross fell, and the breast-works that were thrown up for the defence of Baltimore during the late war. The mayor, and a committee from the city council, waited on the President, to whom they presented an address. * See Historv of Turkey, 64 president's tour. Agreeable to previous arrangements, the third bri gade, under the command of General Sterret, assem- bled at Whetstone Point, and at twelve o'clock was re- viewed by the President. He proceeded from hie lodgings, under an escort, accompanied by a large reti- nue of military officers. After a review of the troops, the President proceeded to the examination of Fort M'Henry, which so gloriously withstood the bombard- ment of the Britith naval force for twenty-four hours. The recollection of this event, with other circumstan- ces connected with the unsuccessful essays of our late enemy to gain possession of this city, gave birth to the most grateful and animating reflections. In his deportment, the President is plain, dignified and truly republican ; presenting an example of that general demeanour, which is peculiarly the delight of '.he citizens of Baltimore." ADDRESS TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Sir — We, the mayor and city council of Baltimore, embrace with great pleasure this opportunity of per- sonally congratulating the chief magistrate of the union m his arrival in this place. Your determination, in the commencement of your administration, to visit several of the most important places in the union, is auspicious of happy consequen- ces ; not satisfied with previous knowledge, or second hand information, you are anxious that on yonr part, nothing shall be wanting to promote the common- wealth. That a city which bore so conspicuous a part in the national defence, should first be honoured with the presence of the chief magistrate of the union, is as flattering as it is natural ; and we sincerely hope that president's touk, 65 yaur observation of our position and means of defence, may enable us before another war, to bid defiance to any enemy. When, sir, we review your long tried, faithful and able services ; when we consider the increasing har- monv and concord of the United States, when almost •J universal peatfe reigns among the nations, we augur great and lasting happiness to the United States, in giving full scope to the developement of her faculties in the arts and sciences, in agriculture, manufactures and commerce ; and in the permanent exhibition ot the advantages of a form of civil and political government, superior to any that has hitherto existed. To our fellow citizens, it is a most interesting specta- cle, to see the chief magistrate of this great and power- ful nation, making an official Tour through their coun- try in the style of a private citizen, guarded only by the respect paid to the high station he occupies, and the af- fections of a virtuous people. We sir, wish you, in the sincerity of our hearts, a pleasant Tour through the states, a happy return to Washington, a reputation and satisfaction in your pre- sidency equal to any of your predecessors ; and finally, the reward of a well spent life in an eternal world. We are Sir, with sentiments of very great respeet, vour most obedient servants. GEORGE STILES, Mayor of the city of Baltimore. TO THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF BAL- TIMORE. Fellow Citizens — The sentiments which you have communicated, have afforded me very great satisfaction. They are just, as to the objects adverted to, and tome they are generous and kind. It was impossible for me to approach Baltimore, without recollecting, with deep interest, the gallant conduct of her citizens in the late war, and the happy result attending their exertions. The glorious victory which was achieved here, and in which her citizens fcore so distinguished apart, at a very important epoch, F2 66 president's tovr. not only protected this patriotic city, but shed lustre 011 the American name. Experience has shewn our dangers, and admonishes us as to the means of averting them. Congress has appropriated large sums of money for the fortification of our coast, and inland frontier, and for the establish- ment of naval dock yards, and building a navy. It is proper that these works should be executed with judg- ment, fidelity, and economy ; much depends, in the execution, on the executive, to whom extensive power is given, as to the general arrangement ; and to whom the superintendance exclusively belongs. You do me justice in believing, that it is to enable me to discharge these duties with the best advantage to my country, that I have undertaken this tour. From the increased harmony of public opinion, founded on the successful career of a government, which has never been equalled, and which promises, by a future developement of its faculties, to augment, in an eminent degree, the blessings of this favoured people. I unite with you in all the anticipations which you have so justly suggested. In performing services, honestly aud zealously in- tended for the benefit of my fellow-citizens, 1 shall ne- ver entertain a doubt of their generous and firm sup- port. Incapable of any feelings distinct from those of a citizen, I can assume no style, in regard to them, dif- ferent from that character ; and it is a source of peculiar delight to me to know, that while the chief magistrate of the United States acts fully up to this principle, he will require no other guard than what may be derived from their confidence and affection. JAMES MONROE. Baltimore, June 2, 1817. *' After this interchange of sentiments and feelings, the Mayor, in his own, and in behalf of the corpora- tion, cordially invited the President to a public dinner, which he declined, on the ground that it would not be consistent with his previous arrangements for him to president's tour. 67 accept of this public manifestation of their regard.-— The President, in the most feeling manner, expressed the lively sense he entertained of the civility and at- tention of his fellow-citizens, but was compelled, from motives of public concern, to forego the acceptance of their invitation." The city of Baltimore, the capital of the state of Maryland, is situated upon the Patapsco river, about fourteen miles from its junction with the Chesapeake Bay. It has long been ranked as the fourth commer- cial city in the union. It is built upon a basin, which forms a safe and commodious harbour. It is divided by a creek called Jones' Falls, into two parts, over which a number of bridges are erected to facilitate commu- nication between the two sections of the city. The public buildings in this place, whether erected as hous- es of legislative or judicial sessions ; public worship ; the education of youth, or banking, commercial, and manufacturing concerns, certainly evince the taste and the wealth of the place. Its population in 1810, was 47,000. It is well defended by Fort M'Henry. The storm and the flood of 1817, left a gloomy track tf desolation through this flourishing and growing city j but the well known enterprize of its citizens will shortly restore the place from the effects of a calamity which no sagacity could foresee ; which no prudence could prevent; The defence of this place, on September 14, 1814, shews that retribution sometimes treads close upon the heels of transgression. Gen. Ross, a British com- mander, a few weeks before this place was attacked, burnt the Capitol, the President's house, and the oa~ G8 president's tour. • iional library at Washington. Near Baltimore he was slain by the hand of an American ! We cannot scan the mysterious decrees of Providence ; "'his ways are past finding out j" but while the noble sentiment in- herent with American bosoms, induces them to honoui the memory of a valiant and generous foe like Brock, they silently acquiesce in the justice of heaven in re- moving a Vandal enemy like Ross. The President took his departure from Baltimore upon the 4th, amidst the prayers of the good for the benedictions of heaven upon his life, and the blessings of all upon him for his dignified affability and the deep interest he manifested for the welfare and happiness of the place. He entered the steam boat Philadelphia, being conducted to it by the mayor and city council, and was accompanied to Frenchtozvn by a number of the citizens. He reached New-Castle, and there lodg- ed. In the two last mentioned places, although there was but little parade, the whole population evinced by every visible demonstration, their high respect and veneration for the President. t He arrived at Philadelphia upon the 6th, and was re- ceived there in a style highly creditable to the taste and elegance of its citizens. The manner of his reception, shewed that amongst a refined people, the most enthu- siastic admiration will always be restrained by the dic- tates of propriety. The President, while in this important city, and its vicinity, instead of indulging himself in the luxurious enjoyments that were every where spread before him, devoted himself to the most minute attention in exam- ining the almost endless variety of important establish- PRESIDENTS TOUR. 6$ £ents belonging either to the nation, the state, or indi- viduals. The first object that attracted his attention here, was the great object he had in view in making his laborious Tour ; the defence of his country against an enemy. This city may be approached through the Delaware by the largest ships that swim upon the ocean. It was a long time in possession of the enemy in the re- volutionary war, and its possession was of immense im- portance to them, and of severe distress to the country. But the President now had the satisfaction of witnessing the progress and almost the completion of a great work forty miles below it, which will secure this great city from the approach of a naval enemy. He inspected the numerous manufacturing establishments upon the Brandywine, and there witnessed the perfection to which machinery had been carried by his enterprising and inventive countrymen. He was received at fort Mifflin with the customary honours, and gave it an ex- amination with the eye of a soldier. The navy yard and the Franklin 74, were by him minutely inspected. Delightful indeed was the association of ideas when on board this majestic ship, bearing the name of the Amer- ican Philosopher, and laying before the city which was honoured by his residence. " The public establishments of this city, as well as those belonging to the United States, were visited. He was at the penitentiary, and there witnessed the most, extraordinary institution in the universe ; a prison to which all the criminals of the state are committed after a sentence ; and the disorderly of this large city. It has at times contained prisoners of both sexes to the amount of 600. There he saw a prison, containing the I 70 president's Teuiu worst characters of the community, the collective de* pravity of the vices of society, kept in useful, whole- some employment ; with the same quietness as a qua- ker meeting ; with the order and obedience of a military body ; well fed and warmly clad ; and by a happy sys- tem of order and humanity, secure against the despair, the violence and outrages common to prisons ; the whole kept in order by only seven men ; and the se* cret of the establishment by which this astonishing in- stitution is conducted is to avoid cruel punishments ; to avoid every kind of ignomy ; to induce self-respect even among criminals, and to induce the worst to hope ; the whole prison, such as in other places requires a mil- itary guard, is conducted by only seven men, whose mildness of manners is as striking as the excellence of the system itself. The President also visited the Pennsylvania Hospi- tal ; the Academy of Fine Arts ; the Museum of Mr. Peale ; Mr. Sulley's paintings, &c. The civil author- ities of this state waited on him ; and, indeed, his quar- ters at the Mansion House were crowded every hour." It is impossible in a work so limited as this, to notice all the civilities he received, or insert all the addresses that were delivered ; but as the Pennsylvania State Society of Cincinnati approached their illustrious com- patriot with the manly and affectionate language of sol- diers ; and as he reciprocated their civilities in the lan- guage of the heart, the address and answer must not be omitted. PRESIDENT^ TOUR. 71 TO JAMES MONROE, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. y IR — Embracing the occasion which your attention, as Chief Magistrate, to the military defences of the Uni- ted States, has afforded, it is with peculiar pleasure that the members of the Pennsylvania Society of the Cin- cinnati, a portion of the surviving few, who were your associates in arms during the war of the revolution, ap- proach to renew their personal intercourse, and to as- sure you of their cordial support to the firm and impar- tial administration of the government, which, by com- bining in its measures domestic tranquillity with the res- pect of foreign nations, they confidently anticipate, will promote the best interests of the United States, ensure to our citizens the advantage of social harmony and individual happiness. That you may participate those blessings, and enjoy the grateful esteem of a happy people, is the sincere wish of Your faithful friends, And respectful fellow citizens. Signed by order, and by the unanimous vote of the Society, D. LENOX, President, Horace Binnev, Secretary. Philadelphia, June 6, 1817- THE PRESIDENT'S ANSWER. To the members of the Pennsylvania Society of the Cin- cinnati. Fellow Citizens ; In attending to the military and naval defence of the United States, nothing can be more gratifying to me, than to meet the surviving members of my associates in arms, who distinguished themselves in our revolu- tionary contest. I can never forget the dangers of that great epoch, nor be indifferent to the merit of those who partook in them. 72 PRESIDENT^ TOUR. To promote tranquillity at home, and respect a- broad, by a firm and impartial administration, are among the highest duties of the Chief Magistrate of the Unit- ed States. To acquit myself in the discharge of these duties, with advantage to my fellow-citizens, will be the undeviating object of my zealous exertions. Their ap- probation will be the highest recompense which I can receive. JAMES MONROE. Philadelphia, June 6, 1817. The Cincinnati Society was formed at the close of the revolution, by the surviving veterans who carried their country triumphantly through it. It has been a bond of union among them ever since. Although the funds of the society have always been very limited, it has afforded relief to many of the patriotic followers of Washington, whose scars have felt "the pelting of the pitiless storm," and who have too long been me- lancholy monuments of the ingratitude of their emanci- pated countrymen. In most of the states, there is a State Society of Cincinnati. The city of Philadelphia, the largest in the union, is situated one hundred and twenty miles fromj;he ocean, and six miles above the confluence of the rivers Dela- ware and Schuylkill. It was settled by that eminent statesman and christian William Penn, in 1682, and from him received its charter, in 1701. Its plan is a parallelogram, the streets crossing each other at right angles. Its public buildings embrace those of every kind ; a State house ; a number of elegant banks ; forty-four religious edifices ; elegant structures for the numerous philosophical, medical, humane, and me- chanical societies ; an university, and, indeed, every PRESIDENT'S TUt>R» 7$ > species of buildings necessary for the transaction of political business ; the education of youth in the va- rious sciences ; the advancement of the arts, and the promulgation of that knowledge which dignifies man, and advances human happiness. In the bosom of this important city have been established most of the im- portant institutions of the American Republic. In this city, our government was organized under our Consti- tution. In the political system of the New World, it may be denominated the primum mobile. Under the guidance of Washington, a man who might justly claim an exemption from most of the infirmities of his species, the Legislative power was systematized ; the Judiciary power was fixed, and the Financial system was arranged. The intercourse between the United States, and the rest of the world here commenced, after they became inde- pendent of foreign control ; and here many ambassadors from the first courts in the world, witnessed, with aston- ishment, the rapid progress of political science toward perfection. They here saw anew people, untrammelled from every badge of feudal slavery, and ecclesiastical tyranny, establishing civil and religious liberty upon the only basis upon which it can stand ; the rights of man. Philadelphia continued to be the seat of the national government until it was removed to Washington in 1 800. In a literary and scientific point of view, it mustbe con- sidered as the Athens of America. It was here that Franklin, by the power of electricity, discovered the means of making the thunder roll harmlessly over our heads, and shielded our habitations from the destruction of the forked lightning. It was here that Rush, by the aid of medical science, robbed the " pestilence that G 74 president's tour. walketh in darkness, and the destruction that wasteth at noon day," of half their terrors. The scientific and literary productions of the scholars of this place in later days, show that she is still the metropolis of science in the westers world. The population in 1810, was 112,000. An event that took place here in the revolutionary war, cannot be passed over in silence in this work. It was " the Battle of the Kegs." It was not exactly the Torpedo system of warfare, but the explosion of a great number of kegs of powder in the water, produced the most ludicrous effect, and the most facetious poem, the country ever witnessed, or read. An account of it, and the poem made upon the occasion, may be found in Humphrey's Life of Putnam. The President left Philadelphia upon the 7th, with Gen. Swift and his private secretary Mr. Mason, and directed hi? course toward Trenton, the capital of New Jersey. Upon his approach to this place, the pains and the pleasures of memory must have alternately agitated his mind. He must have reflected, that through the state of New Jersey, his great compatriot in the revolutionary struggle, General Washington, was a wanderer with a few faithful soldiers, viewing the country he loved better than himself, sinking into a de- graded submission before an imperious and unrelenting foe ; a foe that pursued her own countrymen, in her own colonies, with " a step steady as time ; with an appetite keen as death." But that retrospection that hurried his mind back to that period of deep despond- ency, also made his heart beat with that patriotic fer- vour which then aroused the despairing courage of hi? president's tour, 75 countrymen at the " victory of Trenton.' 1 '' A merce- nary band of soldiers, fighting here in the unjust cause of * foreign potentate for their bread, were encounter- ed, subdued, and captured, by a little phalanx of repub- lican soldiers, led by the American Fahius, who were contending for " the soil which their grandsires defend- ed*" In this contest, James Monroe, now the first ma- gistrate in twenty one sovereign and independent states, fought in a subordinate rank. The wounds he here re- ceived, furnish evidence of his early courage, and of his devotion to the cause of his injured and then suf- fering country. His fellow citizens, remembering his youthful valour, and respecting his matured wisdom, and elevated rank, received him with an unaffected cordiality, more expressive of real esteem, than all the gorgeous pageantry with which a sovereign prince is escorted through his capital by his enslaved subjects, " On Saturday evening, the 7th June, a little after sunset, the President, accompanied by General Swift, Chief of Engineers, Mr. Ingersoll, District Attorney for Pennsylvania, and Mr. Mason, his private Secretary, reached the Delaware bridge below this city, where the principal authorities, the volunteer companies of Trenton, commanded by captain Rossell, and a large concourse of citizens were awaiting him. His arrival was announced by apiece of artillery, under the direc- tion of captain Yard, and by the ringing of bells. He was conducted by the military escort to Anderson's tavern ; where a feu-de-joie was fired. The Mayor. BIr. M'Neely, the Recorder, Mr. Charles Ewing, and Aldermen Broadhurst, Taylor and Smith, were imme 76 president's tour. diately presented to him, when the Recorder made hm» the following extempore Address." The Mayor and City Council, and, through us. the citizens of Trenton, present to you, Sir, their most unfeigned respects ; congratulate you on }'our arrival, and give you a most cordial welcome to this city — the scene, Sir, of some of the services you have rendered our country. We most sincerely wish you the enjoy- ment of health, a long life, and a prosperous adminis- tration. To which the President spontaneously replied : I feel very sensibly this kind attention on the part of the authorities of the city of Trenton ; the place where the hopes of the country were revived in the war of the revolution, by a signal victory obtained by the troops under the command of Gen. Washington, after a severe and disastrous campaign. I am well acquaint- ed with the patriotism of the citizens of Trenton, and, indeed, of Jersey ; for none suffered more, or display- ed greater patriotism in our revolutionary contest. I beg you to accept my best wishes for your continued prosperity and happiness. The President spent the following sabbath in Trea- son, and, with his suite, attended divine service at one of the churches in that place. It is a fact worthy of observation, and undoubtedly a source of high gratifi- cation to the admirers of the Christian Religion, that the President, during his Tour, embraced every oppor- tunity to unite with his fellow citizens upon the Chris- tian sabbath, in adoring the Creator of the world. — Although our inimitable constitution absolutely prohi- bits the passage of any religious test act ; although the bright constellation of American statesmen have always PRESIDENT'S TOUR. 's TOUR. 77 resisted tiie establishment of any privileged order or religious sect ; and although the most unqualified tolera- tion in religious worship is extended to every sect that has arisen in the world, from the days of Moses to this time ; yet, as the Christian Religion is the prevailing system in our country, it must be a subject of real con- gratulation to its believers, that their Chief Magistrate is willing to manifesto's belief of it, by publicly com- plying with it* ordinances. In his answer to the Cler- gymen of Portland he not only expresses " reverence for our Muker" but recognizes " our Lord a?id Sa- viour." Trenton is situated upon the river Delaware, thirty miles N. E. of Philadelphia. It is a small, but hand- some town, having a court house, a prison, an academy, five houses of public worship, and more than three thousand inhabitants. The feelings of the President, while in this place*, must have been of a nature which but few can justly ap- preciate, and with which a ' stranger intermeddleth not.* He must have left it with a heart glowing with gratitude to that Being who sits upon the undisputed throne of the universe, that he had, in his merciful dispensations, made Trenton a place where all may now enjoy tran- quillity and peace, " having none to molest, or make them afraid ;" and he must have contrasted its present enviable situation, with what it was, when he viewed it in the hauds of a merciless foe, who held the lives of its unoffending citizens at their own disposal ; and who, without compunction, had murdered a minister of the everlasting gospel, whose holy functions loci him to dis 78 PRESIDENT'S TOUR, pense the word of life, in an unoffending manner, to the. people of his chosen flock. He left this place upon the 9th, and passed through a country which furnished occular demonstration of the industry and comfort of its inhabitants. " At New-Brunswick he was received a few miles from town. Chief Justice Kirkpatrick, in the name of the committee, respectfilly congratulated the President on his arrival j to which he made a polite and suitable reply. As the President approached, he was met and escort- ed to the City Tavern. His arrival was announced by the ringing of bells and the discharge of cannon. At the entrance of the town, an elegant horse, was tender- ed the President, which he mounted and rode into town. The streets were literally filled with spectators, all anxious to testify their respect for the Chief Magis- trate. A number of citizens also attended, and were pre- sented by the committee to the President, who receiv- ed them with great affability and marked respect. After remaining about an hour, he again mounted on horseback, and proceeded on his journey towards New- York. Captain Van Dyke's troop accompanied him -iboutfive miles." He arrived at New-York city, upon the 11th June. 1817. Upon entering this city, unquestionably the first in the western world in a commercial point of view, the emporium of commerce, and the mart of trade in the American States ; a flood of ideas must have rushed in- to his comprehensive mind. It was in this city the president's your. 7- M OJd Congress" once assembled. This convention of gigantic statesmen, representing thirteen infant colo tiies, held together by no other ligament than that rope of sand, " The old Confederation," here sat in solemn council to devise ways and means to protect them from the .almost irresistible power of their mother country, determined to deprive them of the right of self govern- ment. This place in the early stages of the revolution- ary struggle, was evacuated by the American forces, and surrendered to an enemy whom they could not then conquer. He might have seen Washington, by a masterly re- treat, saving the remnant of an army, from the dying miseries of a prison ship, in which thousands of his countrymen perished in a manner ten times more ter- rible than that of the prisoners at Jaffa. This city was, during almost the whole war, the strong hold of the King's army. It was here the pow- er of Britain presented the mo&t imposing aspect, and induced many Americans, in the adjoining country, to desert the republican standard ; join the enemies of their country, and become the most cruel and ferocious foes to their own brethren. These reflections must have produced a sombre ith just confidence in the affections of a generous people, and are happy to embrace this opportunity, on behalf of 82 PRESIDENT'S T0T5R. themselves and their fellow citizens, to express to him the high sense they entertain of his private virtues and puplic services. Called by the voice of a nation of Freemen to the first office in their power to bestow, you can possess no higher evidence of their approbation of your past con- duct, and of their confidence in the able and faithful discharge of the important duties assigned to your pre- sent station. Nothing can add to the force of this testi- mony, founded, as it is, with uncommon unanimity on the sense of a free and enlightened people. We learn, with great satisfaction, that your present Tour is connected with the object of carrying into ef- fect the measures of general defence proposed by the Congress of the United States, and that you have deem- ed them of sufficient importance to merit your personal attention. On this subject, permit us to say, that our citizens feel a deep and lively interest. This state, fj ' n its local situation and exterior frontier, is peculiar- ly subject, to become the theatre of war ; and the city of New- York, while it affords the strongest temptation, is much exposed from its natural position to the at- tempts of a foreign enemy. Although in the late con- test it has not actually been assailed, we may presume it may, without arrogance, be said, that the extraordina- ry and spirited exertions of our citizens, powerfully supported by the patriotic efforts of the people of this and a neighbouring state, taught the enemy to believe that such an attempt could not be made with impunity. The wisdom of our government is displayed by the meas- ures now undertaken, to provide in time of peace, the security required in time of war ; and we feel the high- est confidence that, under your auspices, that security will be afforded, for every future emergency. The present happy condition of our country, in general, de- mands our highest gratitude to the Supreme Ruler of events, and opens to our view great and interesting prospects. In a state of profound peace, after a con- flict, in which the rights of the nation have been vindi- cated and the honour of the American name been ex- alted we see a great people united amongst them- president's TOUR. 8 selves — devoted to a government of their choice — ■ possessing a country as fertile as it is extensive — evincing a spirit of enterprize in the various employ- ments of agriculture, commerce and manufactures — ar- dent in the pursuits of science, and in cultivating the arts which adorn civilized society, and advancing in population, power and wealth, with a rapidity hitherto unexampled. The destinies of such a people, with the blessings of Providence, cannot be anticipated, and de- fy calculation. It is your happiness, Sir, to have commenced your administration at a period thus propitious and interest- ing ; and we have no doubt it will be your great ambi- tion to bestow on these important objects all the patron- age in your power, and justify the high expectations which have been formed. That the pleasing prospects we have indulged may be happily realized, and that your administration may, in all respects, effectually promote the best interests of the United States, and that you may long live to witness the prosperity of your country, and enjoy the esteem of a virtuous people, is the ardent wish of those on whose behalf I have the honour to address you. In behalf of the Corporation of the city, I have the honour to be, with sentiments of the highest es- teem, your obedient servant. J. RADCLIFP. TO WHICH THE PRESIDENT MADE THE FOLLOWING REP.LY : To the Mayor, Aldermen and Commonalty of the city of New- York. Fellow-Citizens ; In performing a duty enjoined on me by the Con- stitution and Laws of the United States, I cannot express the satisfaction which I derive from the intercourse to which it leads, with so many of my fellow citizens ; and from the opportunity it affords to behold, in person, the blessings which an all gracious Providence has extend- ed to them. 84 president's tour. In executing the laws which Congress have wisely adopted for the national defence, the Atlantic and in- land frontiers of this state, by their exposed situation, are entitled to particular attention. I am aware too, that this populous and flourishing city, presents, in times of war, a strong temptation to the cupidity of an invading foe. It is in the spirit of the laws which I am called to execute— it is in the spirit of the people whom I represent, to provide amply for the security of every part, according to the danger to which it is ex- posed. In performing this duty, I shall endeavour to be their faithful organ. The present prosperous condition of our country is, \ as you justly observe, the best proof of the excellence of our institutions, and of the wisdom with which they have been administered. It affords, too, a solid ground on which to indulge the most favourable anticipations as to the future. An enlightened people, educated in the principles of liber- ty, and blessed with a free government — bold, vigo- rous, and enterprizing, in the pursuit of every just and honourable attainment — united by the strong ties of a common origin, of interest and affection — pos sessed of a vast and fertile territory — improving in ag ricnlture, in the arts and manufactures — extending their commerce to every sea — already powerful, and rapidly -increasing in population, have every induce- ment and every means whereby to perpetuate these blessings to the latest posterity. The honourable termination of the late war, where- by the rights of the nation were vindicated, should not lull us into repose — the events attending it show our vulnerable points, and it is in time of peace that we ought to provide by strong works for their defence. The gallantry and good conduct of our army, navy, and militia, and the patriotism of our citizens, gener- ally, so conspicuously displayed in that war, may al- ways be relied on. Aided by such works, our fron- tiers will be ith pregnable. Devoted to the principles of our government from my earliest youth, and weli satisfied that the great blessings president's TOUR. tio which we enjoy, are, under Divine Providence, impu- table to that great cause, it will be the object of my constant and zealous efforts to give to those principles their best effect. Should I, by these efforts, contribute, in any degree, to the happiness of my fallow citizens, I shall derive from it the highest gratification of which my mind is susceptible. JAMES MONROE. *' After this ceremony the officers of the artillery and infantry, and many distinguished citizens waited upon and were presented to him. The Society of the Cincinnati, with their respectable Vice President, Gen. Stevens, at their head, also Waited on him and present- ed an address, by Judge Pendleton, one of the mem- bers. 5 ' TO JAMES MONROE, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. Sir — The New- York Society of Cincinnati, take this opportunity, when your important duties as Chief Ma- gistrate of the United States, have procured for this city the honour of a visit, to present to you the assur- ances of their respect, and of their cordial disposition to support, with all their power, J:he measures which the wisdom of the government shall adopt, to promote the honour and welfare of our beloved country. Your presence, Sir, recalls those patriotic emotions in which the Society of Cincinnati originated ; and as a distinguished individual among the officers of the revo- lutionary war, of which the Society was composed, you are associated with the pleasing recollections, which we cherish of the result of that ardent struggle. We beg you to accept our sincere wishes for your personal happiness, and the assurance of our high eB- ieem and consideration. H 86 president's tour. To which the President made the following Reply. The opportunity which my visit to this city in the discharge of important public duties has presented, of meetingthe New-York Society of Cincinnati, with ma- ny of whom I was well acquainted in our revolution, af- fords me heartfelt satisfaction. It is impossible to meet any of those patriotic citizens, whose valuable servi- ces were so intimately connected with that great event, without recollections which it is equally just and hon- ourable to cherish. In your support of all proper measures for the na- tional defence, and advancement of the public welfare, I have the utmost confidence. Those, whose zeal and patriotim were so fully tried in that great struggle, will never fail to rally to the standard of their country, in anv emergency. JAMES MONROE. " The President, after receiving his visitants, was attended by the committee of arrangements, and escor- ted by a squadron of cavalry, to the quarters provided for him at the elegant establishment of Mr. Gibson, in Wall-street. Previous to dinner, the President, accom- panied by Gens. Scott, Swift, Morton, and suites, visit- ed the United States Arsenal. At 5 o'clock the gentlemen on duty, the Vice Presi- dent, the Hon. De Witt Clinton, Governor elect, the Hon. Rufns King, together with several of the Presi- dent's former brethren in arms, Gen. Stevens, Col, Willet. Col. Piatt, and the committees of arrangements and of the corporation, dined with the President at his quarters. In the evening the City Hall and Theatre were bril- liantly illuminated and decorated with appropriate trans- parences, exhibiting, perhaps, one of the most beau- tiful spectacles that can be well imagined president's tour. 87 The whole of the transactions of the day made iin pressions which will not soon be forgotten by oar citi- zens. The occasion itself, the reception of the Chief Magistrate of our country, endeared to us by a long course of public services, as well as by his private vir- tues, gave an interest and excited feelings, which it is the peculiar privilege of freemen to enjoy." The President, in his first Tour, paid very particu- lar attention to Manufacturing Establishments. He of- ten expressed his admiration at the progress they had made toward the perfection they had reached in Eu- rope. The Report of the " Society for the Encourage- ment of Domestic Manufactures ," is therefore incor- porated into this work. '•'Report of the Corresponding Committee of the So ciety for the Encouragement of Domestic Manufac tures. The Corresponding Committee, elected in pursu- ance of the third article of the Constitution, for the current year, respectfully report : — That immediately after the meeting of the Society, held on the 31st December, 1816, they took the speed- iest measures for carrying into effect the resolutions, respecting the printing and publishing the Address then reported and adopted. They accordingly caused to be printed five thousand copies ; one of which was transmitted to the President of the United States, and one to each of the members of Congress, and heads of department of the general government, and to the go- vernors and members of the Legislatures of the state* respectively, as far as the same was practicable. 38 president's tour. Your Committee, in further pursuance of the duties delegated to them, caused a memorial to be drawn up in behalf of the Society, addressed to the Congress of the United States, praying for the permanency of the duties imposed by the tariff: the prohibition of cotton goods, manufactured beyond the cape of Good Hope ; such revision and modification of the revenue laws, as might prevent smuggling, false invoices, and other frauds ; for a duty of ten per cent, on auction sales, with the exceptions therein stated ; for a recommenda- tion to the officers of the army and nnvy, and to all civil officers, to be clothed in American fabrics ; that all public supplies for the army and navy might be of Ame- rican manufacture ; and for such other protection as might place our mercantile and manufacturing interests beyond the reach of foreign influence. It is with pleasure and gratitude your committee have learned, that the war department, has given an entire preference to domestic manufacture, and as much is confidently hoped from the department of the navy. Your Committee elected a delegate to proceed with the same to the seat of government. Memorials of similar import, were drawn up by the merchants of this city, and by the citizens at large, respectively ; and another member of your Committee was deputed by the merchants, who also appointed a citizen of New York, then in the city of Washington, to co-operate with the delegates of this Society, and caused the above named memorials to be laid before Congress, with instructions to solicit and promote the objects of them, by their best endeavours. PRESIDENT'S TOUR. a? "The delegates, on their way to the seat of govern- ment, took occasion to explain, to certain respectable and influential citizens of Philadelphia and Baltimore, the object, views, and motives, of this Society, and the nature of their mission ; and had the satisfaction, during the short period of one day, in each of these cities, to witness the formation of kindred associations, whose proceedings have been long since made public ; and which, by their intelligence, patriotism, capital, and character, have proved an inappreciable acquisition to the cause of domestic industry. During their residence in the city of Washington, the said delegates, with the aid and co-operation of their colleague, made a similar, and no less successful appeal, to the citizens of Washington, Georgetown, and Alexandria ; who, at a meeting convened by public notice, instituted and organized an association, entitled the Metropolitan Society, — the proceedings of this as- sociation have also been made public ; and their zeal, influence, and respectability, have done much in rous- ing the spirit of enquiry, and promoting the true inter- ests of their country. The delegates were heard with much attention by the committee of commerce and manufactures of the Mouse of Representatives, to whom the above mention- ed memorials were referred, and that committee re- ported in part by a bill, for the continuance of the ex- isting duties upon importations as prayed ; and referred the other matters more immediately connected with the revenue, to the Secretary of the Treasury ; whose opin- ions, we think ourselves authorized to state, were in unison with the prayer of the memorialists, And a? H 2 SO president's tour, though the lateness of the session, aad the mass of un- finished business, prevented the immediate attainment of the objects desired, yet the wisest and most expe- rienced in and out of Congress, (the enlightened mem- bers of the committee of the house included) were of opinion, that nothing would be lost by the delay, as every day would offer new manifestations of the pub- lic sentiment, and the circumstances of the times be move fully developed, and operate as a law of neces- sity. It may be important also to state the friendly inti- mation of the committee itself, that nothing would more conduce to future success, than an authentic collection of facts, tending to show the value of the property em- barked in domestic manufactures, the great portion of which was jeopardized by the causes set forth, and the loss and irreparable injury the commitunity must suffer from neglect, and indifference to so essential an inter- est. As that information could be best collected and embodied by the active industry of this and other socie- ties, we mention as an additional stimulus to exertion and efforts well combined, and vigorously sustained, and we trust that all citizens, who prize the lasting in- dependence of their country — who rejoice in its gene- ral and individual prosperity, will take pride and pleas- ure in sharing so generous a task. The two delegates who proceeded together from this city, were gratified, in returning through the town of Lancaster, in Pennsylvania, to witness the forma- tion of an association of citizens, possessed of every qualification to be useful ; talent, influence, and capi- tal. They were there as on the former occasions, in- president's TOtJR. S3 vited to explain the view and tendency of their mission, and had the pleasure to find the principles of this insti tution, approved, adopted, and promptly acted upon h\ their respected fellow citizens. Numerous societies have cotemporaneously and in rapid succession arisen throughout the union : many have announced themselves by publications full of en- ergy and marked with intelligence. Regular commu- nications have been transmitted to us from the societies at Wilmington, in the state of Delaware ; Middletown, Hartford and Litchfield, in Connecticut ; Rome, and other places in the state of New York ; and we have full authority to say that Ohio, Kentucky, New Jersey,' Virginia, and Mississippi, will soon add their strength and weight to the common stock. The most eminent journalists, without regard to po- litical or party relations, have lent their unbought tal- ents ; and essays have appeared in their columns which would do honour to any country, or to any cause. The periodical publications of most acknowledged merit and extensive circulation, have likewise appropriated their labours to the service of their country ; and, as far as their sphere extended, have put prejudice to flight and ignorance to shame. A pamphlet has been completed by a judicious and masterly hand in the city of Philadelphia, from the re- port of the celebrated Alexander Hamilton, made by thatstatesman in the year 1790, when secretary of the treasury, by order of the house of representatives. This paper has been eminently serviceable, inasmuch as it brings back the judgment of the reader to the na- tural order of things, before the distorted and disjointed dl PRESIDENT^ TOUR. relations of the civilized world had habituated mankind to disturbed and crooked views, and fallacious reitan= ces upon ephemeral hopes and transient speculations. It establishes principles, pure and unerring- — and has the merit not only of sage predictions, but of prophecies fulfilled. It is impossible to notice all the valuable tracts thai patriotic excitement has given birth to, within the short period since our institution led the way ; the address of the society of Middletown, in Conneaticut, and the report of the committee of Pittsburgh, reprinted by or- der of the house of representatives, are documents de serving much attention ; and it is to be wished, that a collection of the most of these valuable tracts, should be embodied and preserved ; they are so many pledges to the public, of the faith and loyalty of the citizens. The address of the society has been reprinted and circulated in such abundance, in so many different forms, and noticed with so much favour, that it is im= possible for us to retire from the front of the battle, where we first appeared, without some loss of charac- ter. It is our turn now, to take the next step in the field of generous emulation, and we should meet, more than half way, every overture to correspondence and co-operation. We should acknowledge our obligations for the confidence reposed in us, and for the light and instiuction reflected upon us. So far your committee have traced their progress in the execution of their trust ; so far our bark has ad- ventured with a favouring gale ; for although we lament that some of our fabrics must suffer within this year, ir- reparable loss : yet we trust, that the certainty, with president's tour. which they may count upon the fostering. care of the government, will in general restore courage, confidence, and credit ; and enable the greater part, to ride out the storm. The immense losses, at which our markets are glutted, cannot endure for many years, and title can he see, who does not read the rising prosperity of our manufactures, at no distant day, and with it, the power, happiness and security of this high favoured land. Your committee, considering the interests of com- merce and manufactures as inseparable and identical, cannot close this report without noticing an evil which has grown to an alarming extent. The present system of auction sales of recent date, in this country, and an anomaly in the history of commerce, has nearly exploded all regular business ; and the auc- tioneer, whose office was formerly subordinate to that of the merchant, is now nearly the only seller ; and if subordinate to any, merely to a foreign principal. If any sales are now made by the regular trader, they are occasional and supplementary. Commercial education, orderly habits, and sober pur- suits, honour and good faith, too fatally yield to gam- bling speculations and fraudulent contrivances. Th$ benefits, if any, that result from this extraordinary mo- nopoly, dearly paid for by the ruin of a class, whose in- dustry was the life of the community, and through them $ in a greater or less degree, of the various and numer- ous description of persons, who, without being com- mercial, depend upon commerce for their support : and if once the merchant disappears from the scene ; if the source is once destroyed, the thousand channels which it fed, become dry and fruitless ; the' proprietor, 94 president's tour. the mechanic, the artist, the labourer, follow in the train, and mast seek elsewhere for subsistence. Already has the public feeling remonstrated against this abuse ; but the practice has still prevailed. The established merchant, it has been shown, musjt ever be unable to compete with the stranger who is charged with no contribution to the public service, subjected to no rent or household expenditure, none of the costs or charges of a commercial establishment, nor taxes nor impositions for the support of the government. Your committee, therefore, refer this subject to the most serious attention of the society, that the most suitable means of investigation may be adopted to sub- stantiate its truth and to procure relief." ADDRESS. " AH who believe that the happiness and indepen- dence of our country, are connected with the pros- perity of our manufactures, must rejoice to see the Chief Magistrate of the nation, honouring, with his pres- ence, a society instituted for their protection and en- couragement. Knowing that the manufactures of the United States cannot, in their infant state, resist the rivalship of foreign nations, without the patronage of the government, it is consoling to find, that he to whom the unanimous voice of a free people has committed the highest office, has not oniy consented to become a member of our institution, but that he avails himself of the first opportunity of giving it the countenance and support of his attendance. An incident like this may form a new era in the his- tory of society. In other countries the influence of the president's tour. 95 magistrate is felt only from the operation of his laws, or through the instrumentality of his subordinate agents, while, on the other hand, he derives his information through intermediate channels. But our happy consti- tution places the people and their officers in such re- lations to each other, that they may have a mutual and direct intercourse ; and we now behold the first ma- gistrate of a great nation, seeking at its source the infor- mation, which will enable him to know the wants and wishes of the country. A life, devoted to the good of his country, gives us assurance, that it is only necessa- ry to make him acquainted with what will promote its happiness, to insure all the support which may be de- rived from his high station. It is now too late to ques- tion the advantages of manufactures. All history shows us how much they have contributed to the prosperity of every state, where they have been encouraged. In- deed we find that in some instances, they have been the sources of all the wealth and power of a people. As they have prospered or declined, nations have risen or sunk. Even wealth, without manufactures, and com- merce, has only served to degrade a great community, by the introduction of that luxury, which was purchas- ed with the produce of inexhaustible mines of gold, But it is not as they are sources of wealth, that an American must feel the deepest interest in the fate of our manufactures ; they more nearly concern us, as they are connected with our independence. For how shall we avoid the influence of foreign nations, while we suffer ourselves to be dependent on them, not only for the luxuries, but the necessaries of life ! Can that nation feel independent, which has no reliance but upon /or- 9t> president's tour. eign hands for the fabrics which are to clothe her cit- izens ? for manufactured materials which are necessa- ry for the construction of their dwellings, and for the tools with which they are to cultivate their soil ? But such has been our situation, (unknown almost to ourselves) until a jealousy of our prosperity provoked a war, which barred us from the workshops of Eng- land ; and then we found we were in some measure obliged to rely on a treasonable trade, to clothe the ar- mies, which met her on the field of battle. The very powder which generated the thunder of our cannon, was sometimes British manufacture, and the striped bunting may often have been from the same loom with the cross of St. George^ over which it so frequently waved in triumph. Such a state of things, could not but awaken the spi- rit and enterprise of Americans. Amidst the agita- tions of war, while one part of the population was ranging itself under the military banners of our coun- try, another devoted itself to her interest in another form. Manufactures arose, as if by enchantment — on every stream she formed for herself spacious dwell- ings, and collected in them many thousands, who in no other way could contribute to the general weal. Those too young, or too old to bear arms, who had not strength for agricultural labours — the female, whose demestic services could be dispensed with in her family — found here a means of individual gain, and of adding to the public prosperity. In a short three years, the pro- duce of our looms rivalled foreign productions, and the nations with which we vvv-re contending, felt more alarm from the progress of our manufactures, than she president's tour. 9< did from the success of our arm3. But peace came While we were at war, the warehouses of England were filled with the produce of the labour which a loss of market had enabled her to purchase at a depreciated price. The moment intercourse between the two countries was opened, her hoarded stores were thrown opon us, and we were deluged with the manufactures which had been waiting the event. They could be sold without profit, because the manufacturer thought himself fortunate, if he could realise the capital which he had been obliged to expend, to support his estab- lishment while there was no sale for wares. But he was content to bear a loss, because, in the words of an English statesman, 'it was well worth while to incur a loss upon the first exportation, in or- der by the glut, to stifle in the cradle, those rising manufactures in the United States, which the war had forced into existence.* It would have been surprising, indeed, if our infant manufactures, the establishment; of which, had generally exhausted the capitals of those who embarked in them, could have sustained them- selves under such circumstances without any aid or support from the government — without any means of countervailing the effects of the sacrifices which for- eigners were willing to make for their destruction.— How were they to maintain themselves ? Ic was impos= sible — many of them sunk — but we hope, to rise again. The attention of the government, was too ardently di- rected during the war, to other objects, to perceive the policy or necessity of that protection, which the manufacturing interest did not then appear to want But now that peace will leave our legislators free to I Ei\T V S TOU'K, l$l Company commanded by Capt. Warriner, and a federal salute was immediately commenced, and the bells rung. On his arrival at Bennett's Inn, he was received by a concourse of people as large as we recollect ever to have seen on any former occasion. The following Ad- dress was then delivered by the Chairman of the Com- mittee, to which the President made ahighlvsatisfacto« ry answer, verbally ; a written one not being reques- ted or expected." r May it please your excellency ; We wait on you as a Committee, in behalf of the people of this and the neighbouring towns, cordially to welcome your arrival within the limits of the Common- wealth of Massachusetts. Of such extent is the country over which, by the voice of the people, according to our excellent Consti- tution, you are cailed to preside ; so various and al? important are the duties of your high station, that but a small portion of our citizens could ever expect the honour and favour of personally knowing their Chief Magistrate. When your Excellency's intention to visit the North- ern States during this season, and the other States of the Union, whenever your cares and arduous labours at the seat of government would admit of your leaving it, was announced, we contemplated it with pleasure, as having a tendency to draw still closer that bond of union which ought never to be broken, or even relaxed, by the intrigues of foreign nations, or the faults and follies of our own. In personally viewing the various establishments made by the government of the United States, since the adoption of the Constitution, for the security and de- fence of our country, we sincerely hope your Excel- lency will see mych to approve ; and that in this place you will iind the efforts made to relieve us from that dependence on other nations for implements of war, (so L 122 president's tour. painful to us during our struggle for independence) not unworthy of your notice and approbation. We ardent- ly wish your Excellency prosperity in your journey- ing ; perfect self-complacency in yo-